Water pump

The water pump design addresses shaft seizing issues by incorporating a pin and plate spring mechanism for easy assembly and leakage prevention, effectively resolving shaft seizing and simplifying the assembly process.

WO2026141703A1PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2026-07-02LG ELECTRONICS INC

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
LG ELECTRONICS INC
Filing Date
2024-12-23
Publication Date
2026-07-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional water pumps face issues with shaft seizing due to foreign substances, requiring complex assembly processes and potential structural instability, and are prone to liquid leakage.

Method used

A water pump design featuring a can with a rotatably accommodated rotor, a motor housing, a control unit housing, a pin that moves axially, and a plate spring to apply a restoring force, allowing easy tool insertion to relieve shaft seizing while preventing liquid leakage.

Benefits of technology

The design simplifies assembly, effectively resolves shaft seizing, and prevents damage from liquid leakage by using a pin and plate spring mechanism.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

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Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The present invention relates to a water pump comprising: a can in which a rotor is rotatably accommodated; a motor housing in which the can and a stator are disposed; a control unit housing coupled to one side of the motor housing in an axial direction thereof; a pin which is coupled to a rotor shaft by moving along the axial direction when an external force is applied; and a plate spring coupled to the can, the spring applying a restoring force to the pin when coupled thereto, wherein the pin can be pressed with a tool, allowing the rotor shaft to rotate to clear a jam caused by debris.
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Description

water pump

[0001] The present invention relates to a water pump, and more specifically, to a water pump capable of removing sticking by applying an external force when sticking occurs due to foreign substances remaining in a liquid.

[0002]

[0003] A water pump is a device used to flow liquid or increase the pressure of a liquid.

[0004] Generally, water pumps utilize centrifugal force, where a rotating impeller pushes liquid radially outward from the center of the pump. The centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the impeller provides the fluid force that moves the liquid from the pump's inlet to the outlet. During this process, the velocity of the liquid increases, and high-pressure liquid can be generated.

[0005] Meanwhile, electric water pumps that use an electric motor to provide rotational force to the impeller are widely used. Electric water pumps rotate the rotor using the electromagnetic force between the rotor and the stator, and the rotor shaft and the impeller rotate together to generate centrifugal force.

[0006] However, failures may occur in water pumps as described above depending on the operating environment. Specifically, water pumps used for circulating water for heating and hot water supply in Air To Water Heat Pumps (AWHPs) are used intensively during the cold winter months, while usage tends to decrease significantly during the summer. In addition, if the water contains foreign substances such as lime, the water may evaporate and the lime may harden when not in use. If such foreign substances adhere between the rotor shaft and the bearing, the shaft may fail to rotate even when power is applied to the water pump.

[0007] In this regard, European registered patent EP 2808547B1 discloses a pump device capable of deblocking the shaft of a rotor.

[0008] The above pump device is equipped with a pin at one axial end of a can containing a rotor, and when the pin is pressed and rotated with a tool, it engages with the shaft of the rotor and rotates together, thereby relieving the sticking.

[0009] However, the above pump device has a limitation in that the number of parts increases because it must be equipped with a separate housing for guiding the axial reciprocating movement of the pin and a separate housing for sealing the pin.

[0010] In addition, there is a limitation in that additional processes, such as welding, are required to secure the cans and housings.

[0011] Meanwhile, European registered patent EP 3379084B1 discloses a hydraulic pump in which a pin is provided inside a can and can be relieved of sticking through the rotation of the pin.

[0012] However, the above pump has a limitation in that both the pin and the spring are placed inside the can, and the spring elastically supports the space between the bearing and the pin, so when an external force is applied, both the spring and the bearing can move, resulting in structural instability.

[0013] In addition, since the motor must be mounted after the pin is assembled inside the can and the spring is assembled, the assembly process is complex and there is a limitation in that the preload applied to the spring becomes unstable due to assembly errors.

[0014]

[0015] The present invention was created to improve upon the problems of conventional water pumps as described above, and aims to provide a water pump capable of resolving shaft seizure caused by foreign substances contained in the liquid.

[0016] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water pump that allows for easy insertion of a tool to resolve shaft seizing.

[0017] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water pump in which parts that resolve seizing can be uniformly assembled in a simple manner.

[0018] In addition, the purpose is to provide a water pump that can prevent damage to the part that relieves seizing due to liquid leakage.

[0019]

[0020] To achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the water pump according to the present invention comprises: a can in which a rotor is rotatably accommodated; a motor housing in which the can and a stator are disposed inside; a control unit housing coupled to one side in the axial direction of the motor housing; a pin that moves along the axial direction and is coupled to the rotor shaft when an external force is applied; and a plate spring coupled to the can and coupled to the pin to apply a restoring force to the pin.

[0021] At this time, the control unit housing may include a control unit housing body; and a tool insertion hole formed through the control unit housing body.

[0022] Meanwhile, the water pump according to the present invention may further include a bearing holder that is coupled inside the can and supports a bearing.

[0023] At this time, the bearing holder can be combined with the plate spring.

[0024] In addition, the pin may be positioned between the control unit housing and the plate spring.

[0025] Meanwhile, the motor housing may include a pin guide portion to which at least a portion of the pin is movably coupled.

[0026] Meanwhile, the control unit housing may include a coupling guide portion that is formed to protrude from the control unit housing body and is inserted into the pin guide portion.

[0027] Meanwhile, the above-mentioned plate spring may include a spring disk formed in the shape of a disc; and a holder coupling portion formed by bending and extending upward from the radially outer end of the spring disk.

[0028] In addition, the above-mentioned plate spring may have at least one spiral-shaped slit formed therein.

[0029] At this time, the outer surface of the holder coupling part may be in contact with the can, and the inner surface may be in contact with the bearing holder.

[0030] Meanwhile, the pin may include: a head portion having a tool coupling groove formed therein to which at least a portion of the tool is coupled; a plunger portion extending along the axial direction from the head portion and inserted into the motor housing; and a key portion coupled to the rotor shaft.

[0031] Meanwhile, the water pump according to the present invention may further include an O-ring that seals the outer surface of the plunger portion and the motor housing.

[0032] Additionally, the pin may further include a spring coupling portion disposed between the key portion and the plunger portion and coupled with the plate spring.

[0033] At this time, the spring coupling part may have a diameter larger than the diameter of the key part.

[0034] Therefore, when an external force is applied to the pin, the pin can be coupled with the rotor shaft and rotated together.

[0035]

[0036] As explained above, according to the water pump of the present invention, a tool can be inserted through a tool insertion hole formed in the control unit housing, and the tool presses the pin to rotate the rotor shaft, thereby relieving sticking caused by foreign matter.

[0037] In addition, a coupling guide portion is formed protruding from the control unit housing, so that the pin can be assembled through a simple process of inserting the pin into the pin guide portion formed in the motor housing and then coupling the control unit housing and the motor housing.

[0038] In addition, an O-ring is fitted between the pin and the motor housing, which effectively prevents liquid leakage.

[0039]

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a perspective view for explaining a motor housing in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a control unit housing in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of Fig. 5 seen from a different direction.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a bearing holder in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a plate spring in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a pin in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 9.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the case where a pin is pressurized in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051]

[0052] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0053] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and should be interpreted to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0054] In describing the present invention, terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components may not be limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0055] The term "and / or" may include a combination of multiple related listed items or any of the multiple related listed items.

[0056] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0057] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0058] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to indicate the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not excluding in advance the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0059] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and may not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0060] In addition, the following embodiments are provided to explain more completely to those with average knowledge in the industry, and the shapes and sizes of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clearer explanation.

[0061]

[0062] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view for explaining a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 shows an exploded perspective view of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 shows a perspective view for explaining a motor housing in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] A water pump (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is described as follows with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4.

[0064] A water pump (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a motor part (100), a pumping part (200), a control part (300), and a deblocking part (400).

[0065] A control unit (300) is disposed on one side of the axial direction of the motor unit (100), a pumping unit (200) is disposed on the other side of the axial direction of the motor unit (100), and a deblocking unit (400) can be disposed in the space formed by combining the motor unit (100) and the control unit (300).

[0066] For convenience, the direction in which the pumping unit (200) is positioned relative to the motor unit (100) may be called the upper side, and the direction in which the control unit (300) is positioned may be called the lower side. Specifically, the direction in which the pumping unit (200) is positioned relative to the length direction of the rotor shaft (141) may be called the upper side, and the direction in which the control unit (300) is positioned may be called the lower side.

[0067]

[0068] The motor unit (100) can be combined with the pumping unit (200) to provide rotational force to the pumping unit (200).

[0069] The motor unit (100) includes a motor housing (110), a stator (120), a can (130), and a rotor (140).

[0070] The motor housing (110) can form the exterior of the motor part (100). For example, the motor housing (110) can be formed in the shape of a roughly square block.

[0071] The motor housing (110) may accommodate a stator (120) inside. Specifically, the motor housing (110) may be molded with a bulk molding compound (BMC) to completely enclose the stator (120) and may include an outer wall (111), an inner wall (112), a bottom surface (113), and a top surface (114). Additionally, a can (130) may be placed in the inner space of the inner wall (112).

[0072] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the motor housing (110) may further include a pin guide portion (115). At least a portion of the pin (410) may be movably coupled to the pin guide portion (115).

[0073] The pin guide portion (115) may be formed by bending and extending downward from the lower surface (113) of the motor housing (110). The pin guide portion (115) may be formed by extending from the center of the lower surface (113) toward the control portion (300), and may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0074] At this time, the inner diameter of the pin guide portion (115) may be larger than the outer diameter of the coupling guide portion (312) to be described later. Accordingly, when the control unit housing (310) and the motor housing (110) are coupled, at least a portion of the coupling guide portion (312) is placed inside the pin guide portion (115), and at least a portion of the pin (410) can be inserted inside the pin guide portion (115).

[0075] Accordingly, the pin (410) can be reciprocated axially along the pin guide (115).

[0076] The stator (120) is fixedly coupled inside the motor housing (110) and can rotate the rotor (140), which will be described later, by receiving power and using electromagnetic force. At this time, various types of known electric motors may be applied to the stator (120) and the rotor (140), and a detailed description is omitted.

[0077] Meanwhile, a can (130) is attached to the motor housing (110). The can (130) can be attached to the radially inner side of the inner wall (112).

[0078] The can (130) can rotatably accommodate the rotor (140). The can (130) can support the rotor shaft (141).

[0079] The can (130) includes a can body (131) and a flange (131a).

[0080] The can body (131) may be formed to accommodate a rotor (140) inside. For example, the can body (131) may be formed in the shape of a cylindrical pot. At this time, a spring support (132) may be formed at one axial end (lower end) of the can body (131).

[0081] The spring support (132) can be formed with a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the inner surface of the can body (131). That is, the inner surface of the can body (131) can be formed to form a step with the inner surface of the spring support (132).

[0082] A leaf spring (420) and a bearing holder (134) may be coupled to the spring support (132). The spring support (132) may accommodate a rotor shaft (141) and a lower bearing (133) inside. At least a portion of the rotor shaft (141) may be accommodated at the radial center of the spring support (132).

[0083] At this time, a lower bearing (133) is placed between the rotor shaft (141) and the bearing holder (134).

[0084] The flange (131b) can be coupled to the other axial end of the motor housing (110). Specifically, the flange (131a) can be formed by bending and extending radially outward from the other axial end of the can body (131) to cover the upper surface of the motor housing (110). Through this, the coupling force between the can (130) and the motor housing (110) can be strengthened, and the coupling force can be maintained even if rotational vibration of the rotor (140) occurs.

[0085] Meanwhile, bearings (133, 136a) may be attached to the outer surface of the rotor shaft (141). Specifically, a lower bearing (133) may be attached to one side in the axial direction of the rotor shaft (141), and an upper bearing (136a) may be attached to the other side in the axial direction.

[0086] The lower bearing (133) is positioned between the bearing holder (134) and the rotor shaft (141) to reduce the frictional force generated when the rotor shaft (141) rotates.

[0087] At this time, a bearing holder (134) is disposed on the radially inner side of the spring support (132), and a lower bearing (133) is coupled to the radially inner side of the bearing holder (134), and one axial side of the rotor shaft (141) can be coupled through the radially center of the lower bearing (133). Through this, one axial side of the rotor shaft (141) can be supported.

[0088] The bearing holder (134) is coupled inside the can (130) and can support the bearing (133, 136a). Specifically, the bearing holder (134) is coupled inside the spring support (132) and can support the lower bearing (133).

[0089] The bearing holder (134) may include a bearing receiving portion (134a), an extension portion (134b), and a support portion (134c) (see FIG. 7). In this case, the bearing receiving portion (134a) is formed in a cylindrical shape and can accommodate at least a portion of the lower bearing (133) and the rotor shaft (141) inside. Additionally, the extension portion (134b) may be formed by bending and extending radially outward from the bottom of the bearing receiving portion (134a). And, the support portion (134c) may be formed by bending and extending downward from the radially outward end of the extension portion (134b). The support portion (134c) may be supported by being coupled with a plate spring (420). In this case, the support portion (134c) may be coupled with the holder coupling portion (424) of the plate spring (420). For example, the outer diameter of the support member (134c) can be formed to be the same size as the inner diameter of the holder coupling member (424). In addition, the outer surface of the support member (134c) and the inner surface of the holder coupling member (424) can be positioned facing each other and come into contact. That is, the outer surface of the support member (134c) can be fitted into the inner surface of the holder coupling member (424). Through this, the bearing holder (134) can support the plate spring (420).

[0090] Meanwhile, the can (130) may further include a can cover (136). The can cover (136) may cover the flange (131a). For example, the can cover (136) may be formed in an annular shape. In this case, a radially inner portion of the can cover (136) may cover an open area of ​​the can body (131) that accommodates the rotor (140), and a radially outer portion of the can cover the flange (131a). That is, the can cover (136) may be placed between the can (130) and the pumping unit housing (210) of the pumping unit (200) to be described later.

[0091] At this time, an upper bearing (136a) may be attached to the radial center of the can cover (136), and a rotor shaft (141) may be received through the interior of the upper bearing (136a). In this case, the rotor shaft (141) may pass through the can cover (136) and be connected to an impeller (240) placed inside the pumping unit (200). Through this, the other axial side of the rotor shaft (141) may be supported.

[0092] The rotor (140) is placed inside the can (130) and can be rotated by the electromagnetic force with the stator (120) when power is applied.

[0093] At this time, the rotor (140) can be rotated with the rotor shaft (141) as the axis of rotation. The rotor (140) can be fixedly coupled to the rotor shaft (141) and rotated together. For example, the rotor (140) is formed in the shape of a cylindrical block, and the rotor shaft (141) can pass through the radial center portion of the rotor (140).

[0094] The rotor shaft (141) can be coupled with the rotor (140) to provide the rotation axis of the rotor (140). At this time, the other axial side of the rotor shaft (141) is supported by a can cover (136) and an upper bearing (136a), and the one axial side of the rotor shaft (141) can be supported by a bearing holder (134) and a lower bearing (133). With this configuration, the rotor shaft (141) can be stably rotated with both axial sides supported.

[0095] The rotor shaft (141) may be formed in the shape of a column or cylinder. For example, the rotor shaft (141) may be hollow. With such a configuration, rotational performance can be maintained even if the volume of the shaft changes due to changes in ambient temperature.

[0096] Meanwhile, the rotor shaft (141) of the present invention may have a keyway (141a) formed at the end in the direction of the control unit (300) (one side in the axial direction). The keyway (141a) may be formed in correspondence with the shape of the key portion (414) of the pin (410) to be described later.

[0097] Meanwhile, the motor unit (100) may be further equipped with a sealer (150). The sealer (150) may be placed at the top of the can (130). That is, the sealer (150) may be placed between the flange (130a) of the can (130) and the can cover (136). Through this, leakage of liquid between the pump unit housing (210) and the can (130) can be prevented.

[0098]

[0099] The pumping unit (200) is positioned on the other side of the axial direction of the motor unit (100) and can flow liquid by receiving rotational force from the motor unit (100).

[0100] The pumping unit (200) includes a pumping unit housing (210), an inlet unit (220), an outlet unit (230), and an impeller (240).

[0101] The exterior of the pumping unit housing (210) of the pumping unit (200) can be formed, and a flow path through which liquid flows can be formed inside.

[0102] Specifically, the pumping unit housing (210) may be in the shape of a cylinder with its axial end closed. For example, the axial end of the closed pumping unit housing (210) may be in the shape of a dome or a flat plate.

[0103] Meanwhile, an inlet section (220) and an outlet section (230) may be disposed on the radial outer side of the pumping section housing (210). At this time, at least a portion of the inlet section (220) may be disposed further from the motor section (100) than the outlet section (230).

[0104] A space may be formed inside the pumping unit housing (210) to rotatably accommodate the impeller (240). That is, the internal space of the pumping unit housing (210) may be formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the impeller (240).

[0105] The internal space of the pumping unit housing (210) may be open to one side (lower side) in the axial direction. At this time, the diameter of the open space may be larger than the diameter of the impeller (240). With this configuration, when assembling the water pump (1) of the present invention, a worker can easily insert the impeller (240) into the pumping unit housing (210).

[0106] Meanwhile, the space formed inside the pumping unit housing (210) can be in communication with the flow path formed inside the inlet section (220) and the flow path formed inside the discharge section (230). Specifically, the center of the other axial end (upper end) of the space in the pumping unit housing (210) where the impeller (240) is accommodated can be open and communicate with the inlet section (220). In addition, a radially outer part of the space in the pumping unit housing (210) where the impeller (240) is accommodated can be formed with a larger diameter and communicate with the discharge section (230).

[0107] The inlet section (220) and the discharge section (230) may be provided so that liquid can flow inside. For example, the inlet section (220) and the discharge section (230) may be in the form of pipes. The inlet section (220) may be in communication with a flow path so that liquid can flow in. Additionally, the discharge section (230) may be in communication with a flow path so that liquid can be discharged. The liquid flowing through the inlet section (220) may flow into the upper space of the other axial end (upper side) of the impeller (240) in the pumping section housing (210). Additionally, the liquid flowing radially outward due to the rotational force of the impeller (240) may flow along the flow path within the pumping section housing (210) and be discharged to the discharge section (230).

[0108] The impeller (240) can rotate in conjunction with the rotation of the rotor (140). Specifically, the impeller (240) can be coupled with the rotor shaft (141) and rotate together, and since the rotor shaft (141) is fixedly coupled to the rotor (140), when the rotor (140) rotates due to electromagnetic force, the impeller (240) can also rotate together.

[0109] The impeller (240) can flow liquid by rotation. For example, the impeller (240) is shown as having closed edges on both sides in the axial direction, an upper surface formed to slope upward toward the radial inner side, and a blade-shaped wing provided inside, but is not limited thereto and various known types of impellers may be applied.

[0110] Accordingly, the liquid introduced through the inlet (220) can be pressurized by the impeller (240) in the internal space of the pumping unit housing (210) and then discharged through the discharge unit (230).

[0111]

[0112] Meanwhile, FIG. 5 shows a perspective view for explaining a control unit housing in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of FIG. 5 viewed from a different direction.

[0113] Referring to FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6, a control unit (300) according to one embodiment of the present invention is described as follows.

[0114] The control unit (300) is coupled to one side in the axial direction of the motor unit (100) and can control the rotation of the rotor (140). Specifically, the control unit (300) includes a control unit housing (310) and a control board (320).

[0115] The control unit housing (310) can form the exterior of the control unit (300). Additionally, the control unit housing (310) can form a space for accommodating a control board (320) inside. Specifically, the control unit housing (310) includes a control unit housing body (311), a coupling guide part (312), and a tool insertion hole (313).

[0116] At this time, the control unit housing body (311) is formed in the shape of a roughly cuboid block, and a tool insertion hole (313) is formed on the lower side (one side in the axial direction), and a coupling guide part (312) is formed on the upper side (the other side in the axial direction). Also, the tool insertion hole (313) can pass through the coupling guide part (312).

[0117] The control unit housing body (311) can be detachably coupled to one side in the axial direction of the motor housing (110). Specifically, at least one assembly hole (314) may be formed in the control unit housing body (311).

[0118] For example, the assembly hole (314) may be formed adjacent to the four corners based on the upper surface of the control unit housing body (311) in the form of a cuboid block, and may be formed along the axial direction (up and down direction). In addition, an assembly guide groove (315) may be formed on the lower side of the assembly hole (314). The assembly guide groove (315) may be formed in a recessed shape along the up and down direction on the corner portion of the control unit housing body (311). Through this, the assembly hole (314) can be detachably coupled to the motor housing (110) by passing a coupling member such as a screw. Furthermore, an operator (assembler) can easily bring a tool such as a screwdriver into the assembly hole (314) along the assembly guide groove (315). Thus, assembly ease can be improved.

[0119] Meanwhile, the control unit housing body (311) includes an upper body and a lower body, and can accommodate a control board (320) and a component for operating the control board (320) in the internal space formed by combining the upper body and the lower body. At this time, the upper body and the lower body can be combined so as to be separable through a hook connection or the like.

[0120] The coupling guide portion (312) is formed protruding from the control unit housing body (311) and can be inserted into the pin guide portion (115). Specifically, the coupling guide portion (312) can be formed on the surface of the control unit housing body (311) in the direction of the motor portion (100).

[0121] The coupling guide portion (312) may be formed to protrude in a cylindrical shape from the control unit housing body (311). The internal space of the coupling guide portion (312) may be in communication with the tool insertion hole (313). At this time, the outer diameter of the coupling guide portion (312) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the coupling guide portion (312). Additionally, the inner diameter of the coupling guide portion (312) may be smaller than the diameter of the pin (410).

[0122] At this time, a coupling groove (312a) may be formed indented around the coupling guide portion (312) in the control unit housing body (311). That is, a circular coupling groove (312a) is formed on the upper surface of the control unit housing body (311), and a cylindrical coupling guide portion (312) is formed protruding from the radial center of the coupling groove (312a), and the internal space of the coupling guide portion (312) may be formed in a manner that communicates with the tool insertion hole (313).

[0123] Accordingly, when the control unit housing (310) is coupled with the motor housing (110), at least a portion of the pin guide portion (115) is received in the coupling groove (312a), and the coupling guide portion (312) can be inserted into the pin guide portion (115). Additionally, the upper end of the coupling guide portion (312) can come into contact with the pin (410) received within the pin guide portion (115).

[0124] Therefore, according to the present invention, a coupling guide portion (312) is formed protrudingly on the control unit housing (310), so that the pin (410) can be assembled through a simple process of inserting the pin (410) into the pin guide portion (115) formed on the motor housing (110) and then coupling the control unit housing (310) and the motor housing (110).

[0125] Accordingly, in the present invention, when the control unit housing (310) is separated from the motor housing (110), the pin (410) can be mounted by a simple operation in which the operator (assembler) inserts the pin (410) into the pin guide part (115) and combines the motor housing (110) and the control unit housing (310).

[0126] The tool insertion hole (313) can penetrate the radial center of the coupling guide part (312). That is, the tool insertion hole (313) is formed from one side of the control unit housing body (311) to allow the tool to pass through and can communicate with the internal space of the coupling guide part (312).

[0127] At this time, the inner diameter of the tool insertion hole (313) may be formed to be larger than the diameter of the tool. For example, the tool may be a screwdriver.

[0128] Through this, the tool can be inserted and connected to the pin (410) while the pin (410) cannot escape through the tool insertion hole (313), and the tool can be rotated with the upper end of the pin (410) combined with the lower end of the rotor shaft (141) by applying pressure to the lower end of the pin (410) to relieve the sticking of the rotor shaft (141).

[0129] Meanwhile, the control board (320) is placed within the control unit housing (310) and can control the motor unit (100). For example, the control board (320) may be a printed circuit board (PCB) of an inverter. An element capable of controlling the motor unit (100) may be mounted on the control board (320). Accordingly, the rotation of the motor unit (100) can be controlled by the operation of the control unit (300).

[0130] Meanwhile, the control unit housing (310) may be provided with a plurality of connectors (330). External power can be supplied to the control board (320) through the connectors (330), and control signals from the control board (320) can be sent to the motor unit (100). For example, at least one of the connectors (331) may be provided on the outer surface of the control unit housing (310), and at least a portion of the connector (331) may be positioned adjacent to the longitudinal end of the control board (320). Additionally, another of the connectors (332) may be provided on the upper surface of the control unit housing (310) and connected to a terminal (116) provided in the motor housing (110).

[0131]

[0132] Meanwhile, in the water pump (1), sticking due to foreign matter may occur depending on the operating environment. For example, in the case of a water pump used for circulating water for heating and hot water supply in an air-to-water heat pump (AWHP), it is used intensively in winter when the temperature is low, and the frequency of use may be significantly lower in summer.

[0133] That is, if the liquid contains foreign substances that are prone to sticking, such as lime components, the water may evaporate and the foreign substances, such as lime, may harden in a high-temperature, dry environment or when not in use for a long period. Therefore, foreign substances may stick to the rotor shaft (141) of the water pump (1).

[0134] In this way, if foreign matter adheres between the rotor shaft (141) and the pumping unit housing (310) or between the rotor shaft (141) and the can (130), a phenomenon may occur in which the rotor shaft (141) cannot rotate even when power is applied.

[0135] To solve this, the present invention includes a deblocking part (400) to resolve the sticking of the rotor shaft (141).

[0136] In this regard, FIG. 8 shows a perspective view illustrating a leaf spring in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 9 shows a perspective view illustrating a pin in a water pump according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 9.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 8 to 10, the deblocking part (400) is described as follows. The deblocking part (400) can resolve the sticking of the rotor shaft (141).

[0138] The deblocking part (400) includes a pin (410), a leaf spring (420), and an O-ring (430).

[0139] The pin (410) may be placed inside the pin guide portion (115). Additionally, the pin (410) may be placed on the upper side of the coupling guide portion (312). The pin (410) may be coupled with a plate spring (420). At this time, a portion of the pin (410) may be inserted into the plate spring (420) and elastically supported by the plate spring (420).

[0140] When an external force is applied, the pin (410) can be keyed to the rotor shaft (141) by axial movement. Specifically, when a tool is inserted through the tool insertion hole (313) and pressed upward, the pin (410) moves upward along the pin guide part (115), and the upper end of the pin (410) can be coupled to the keyway (141a) of the rotor shaft (141).

[0141] The pin (410) includes a head portion (411), a tool coupling groove (412), a plunger portion (413), a key portion (414), an O-ring receiving groove (415), and a spring coupling portion (416).

[0142] At this time, the head portion (411) can be placed inside the pin guide portion (115). The head portion (411) is formed in the shape of a cylindrical block, and the lower surface of the head portion (411) can be in contact with the coupling guide portion (312).

[0143] The diameter of the head portion (411) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the pin guide portion (115). Accordingly, when the head portion (411) is pressed, it may move along the pin guide portion (115).

[0144] The tool coupling groove (412) may be formed in the head portion (411). Specifically, the tool coupling groove (412) may be formed on the lower surface of the head portion (411). As an example, the tool coupling groove (412) may be a straight groove. As another example, the tool coupling groove (412) may be a cross-shaped groove.

[0145] At least a portion of the tool can be coupled to the tool coupling groove (412), and when the tool is rotated, the pin (410) can be rotated.

[0146] The plunger portion (413) may be formed to extend along the axial direction from the head portion (411). The plunger portion (413) may be formed to extend upward in the axial direction from the head portion (411). For example, the diameter of the plunger portion (413) may be formed to be the same as the diameter of the head portion (411). For another example, the diameter of the plunger portion (413) may be formed to be smaller than the diameter of the head portion (411).

[0147] The key portion (414) may be formed to extend from the axial upper end of the plunger portion (413). The key portion (414) may be formed to protrude in the shape of a polygonal column from the axial upper end of the plunger portion (413). In this case, according to the embodiment, a portion of the upper part of the key portion (414) may be shaped into a curved surface. This prevents damage caused by collision when the key portion (414) is inserted into the key groove (141a).

[0148] The key (414) can be coupled to the rotor shaft (141). The key (414) can be coupled to a keyway (141a) formed at the bottom of the rotor shaft (141). The thickness of the key (414) can be formed to be smaller than the width of the keyway (141a). Thus, the key (414) can be inserted into the keyway (141a) to transmit the rotational force of the pin (410) to the rotor shaft (141).

[0149] The O-ring receiving groove (415) can be formed between the head portion (411) and the plunger portion (413). The O-ring receiving groove (415) can be formed in a shape where the diameter decreases in the head portion (411) and the plunger portion (413). That is, the O-ring receiving groove (415) can be formed to be smaller than the diameter of the head portion (411) and the diameter of the plunger portion (413).

[0150] Accordingly, an O-ring (430) can be coupled to the O-ring receiving groove (415), and the O-ring (430) can be prevented from coming off even if the pin (410) moves in a straight reciprocating motion along the axial direction.

[0151] The spring coupling portion (416) may be positioned between the plunger portion (413) and the key portion. The spring coupling portion (416) is formed with a diameter that is smaller than that of the plunger portion (413) and may come into contact with at least a portion of the plate spring (420). For example, the spring coupling portion (416) may be formed with a diameter smaller than that of the plunger portion (413) and larger than that of the key portion (414).

[0152] Through this, the spring coupling part (416) can be inserted into and coupled to the pin coupling hole (422) of the plate spring (420). Accordingly, when the pin (410) is pressed upward, the plunger part (413), which has a larger diameter than the spring coupling part (416), can press the plate spring (420) upward and generate a restoring force in the plate spring (420).

[0153] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, the upper end of the plunger portion (413) may be formed in a shape with a gradually decreasing diameter and then connected to the spring coupling portion (416). That is, the upper end of the plunger portion (413) may be formed in the shape of an inclined surface. In this case, when the pin (410) is pressed upward, the inclined surface formed on the plunger portion (413) may come into contact with the plate spring (420), thereby increasing the elastic support area.

[0154] The leaf spring (420) can apply a restoring force against the axial movement of the pin (410). The leaf spring (420) can be formed of an elastic material.

[0155] A leaf spring (420) can be placed within a spring support (132). At this time, the leaf spring (420) can come into contact with the inner surface of the spring support (132).

[0156] The leaf spring (420) may be positioned on the upper side of the lower surface (113) of the motor housing (110). Additionally, the leaf spring (420) may be coupled to the lower side of the bearing holder (134).

[0157] Specifically, the leaf spring (420) includes a spring disk (421), a pin coupling hole (422), a slit (423), and a holder coupling part (424).

[0158] At this time, the spring disk (421) can be formed in the shape of a disc. Accordingly, when the spring disk (421) is pressed by the pin (410), the spring disk (421) can be elastically deformed and disperse the force applied through the pin (410).

[0159] The pin coupling hole (422) may be formed at the radial center of the spring disk (421). For example, the pin coupling hole (422) may be formed in the shape of a circular hole at the radial center of the spring disk (421). At this time, the diameter of the pin coupling hole (422) may be the same as the outer diameter of the spring coupling part (416). Through this, the upper side of the pin (410) may be supported by the plate spring (420), and the lower side of the pin (410) may be supported by the coupling guide part (312).

[0160] At least one slit (423) may be formed in the spring disk (421). At this time, at least one slit (423) may be formed radially outward from the pin coupling hole (422). For example, the slit (423) may be formed in a spiral shape with the pin coupling hole (422) as the origin. Through this, a spiral spring line can be formed centered on the part where the pin (410) is coupled. Therefore, when the pin (410) is pressed, the plate spring (420) can be elastically deformed smoothly, while maintaining a restoring force without damage caused by excessive deformation.

[0161] The holder coupling portion (424) may be formed by bending and extending upward from the radially outer end of the spring disk (421). Accordingly, the holder coupling portion (424) may be a surface formed by extending upward along the circumferential direction from the outer end of the spring disk (421). At this time, the outer surface of the holder coupling portion (424) may be in contact with the spring support portion (132), and the inner surface of the holder coupling portion (424) may be in contact with the bearing holder (134).

[0162] With this configuration, the holder coupling part (424) can be supported in contact with the inner surface and the outer surface. Therefore, even if the pin (410) is pressed and the spring disk (421) is elastically deformed, the holder coupling part (424) can support the outer end of the spring disk (421) without being deformed. That is, when the plate spring (420) is pressed by the pin (410), the holder coupling part (424) can act as a fixed end, and the radial center of the plate spring (420) can act as a free end to apply a restoring force to the pin (410).

[0163] The O-ring (430) can seal the space between the outer surface of the plunger portion (413) and the pin guide portion (115). For example, the O-ring (430) can be formed in a ring shape and coupled to an O-ring receiving groove (415) formed in the plunger portion (413).

[0164] At this time, the O-ring (430) can prevent liquid present in the motor part (100) and / or pumping part (200) from leaking between the rotor shaft (141) and the can body (131) and flowing into the control part (300).

[0165]

[0166] As described above, the process of assembling the pin (410) in the water pump (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention and the process of relieving sticking are explained as follows.

[0167] A worker (assembler) assembling a water pump (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention inserts a pin (410) into a pin guide portion (115) formed in a motor housing (110).

[0168] After that, the operator positions the upper surface of the control unit housing (310) and the lower surface of the motor housing (110) so that they come into contact with each other. At this time, the hole formed in the motor housing (110) and the assembly hole (314) of the control unit housing (310) are aligned. Additionally, the coupling guide part (312) is aligned so that it is placed inside the pin guide part (115).

[0169] In this state, the worker can insert a connecting member, such as a screw, into the assembly hole (314) and complete the connection by rotating the connecting member with a tool such as a screwdriver.

[0170] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIG. 11, in order to resolve the sticking of the rotor shaft (141), the operator may first insert a tool into the tool insertion hole (313). When the tool passes through the tool insertion hole (313), it may come into contact with the head portion (411) of the pin (410). At this time, if the operator presses the tool further to apply pressure to the head portion (411) and rotates the tool, the tip of the tool presses the head portion (411) toward the motor housing (110), and at the same time, the tip portion of the tool rotates and is fitted into the tool coupling groove (412). Accordingly, the tool and the pin (410) begin to rotate in conjunction. Then, if the operator presses the tool further, the key portion (414) of the pin (410) engages with the key groove (141a) of the rotor shaft (141).

[0171] At this time, if the operator rotates the tool further, the tool, pin (410), and rotor shaft (141) rotate together, and the hardened foreign matter can be removed and the sticking of the rotor shaft (141) can be resolved.

[0172] That is, according to the present invention, when an external force is applied to the pin (410) through a tool, the pin (410) is coupled with the rotor shaft (141) and rotates together, thereby relieving the sticking.

[0173]

[0174] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific embodiments, this is for the purpose of specifically explaining the invention and is not limited thereto. It is evident that modifications or improvements can be made by those skilled in the art within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0175] All simple variations or modifications of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be clarified by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A can in which a rotor is rotatably accommodated; A motor housing in which the above-mentioned can and stator are disposed inside; A control unit housing coupled to one side in the axial direction of the above motor housing; A pin that moves along the axial direction and engages with the rotor shaft when an external force is applied; and A plate spring coupled to the above can and coupled to the above pin to apply a restoring force to the above pin; A water pump including 2. In Paragraph 1, The above control unit housing is, Control unit housing body; and A tool insertion hole formed by penetrating the control unit housing body; A water pump including 3. In Paragraph 1, A bearing holder coupled inside the above can and supporting a bearing; A water pump that further includes.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above bearing holder is, A water pump characterized by being coupled to the above-mentioned plate spring.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above pin is, A water pump characterized by being disposed between the above-mentioned control unit housing and the above-mentioned plate spring.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above motor housing is, A pin guide portion in which at least a portion of the above pin is movably coupled; A water pump including 7. In Paragraph 6, The above control unit housing is, Control unit housing body; and A coupling guide portion formed protruding from the control unit housing body and inserted into the pin guide portion; A water pump including 8. In Paragraph 1, The above leaf spring is, A water pump characterized by having at least one spiral-shaped slit formed therein.

9. In Paragraph 1, The above leaf spring is, Spring disc formed in the shape of a disc; and A holder coupling portion formed by bending and extending upward from the radially outer end of the spring disk; A water pump including 10. In Paragraph 9, A bearing holder coupled inside the above can and supporting a bearing; Includes more, The above holder coupling part is, A water pump characterized in that the outer surface is in contact with the can and the inner surface is in contact with the bearing holder.

11. In Paragraph 1, The above pin is, A head portion having a tool coupling groove formed therein to which at least a portion of the tool is coupled; A plunger portion extending along the axial direction from the head portion and inserted into the motor housing; and A key portion coupled to the rotor shaft above; A water pump including 12. In Paragraph 11, An O-ring that seals the outer surface of the plunger portion and the motor housing; A water pump that further includes.

13. In Paragraph 11, The above pin is, A spring coupling portion disposed between the key portion and the plunger portion and coupled with the plate spring; A water pump that further includes.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above spring coupling part is, A water pump characterized by having a diameter larger than the diameter of the above-mentioned key.

15. In Paragraph 1, A water pump characterized in that when an external force is applied to the pin, the pin is coupled with the rotor shaft and rotates together.