Alternating-Valve Metering Pump for Multi-Component Coatings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metering methods for multi-component products require separate pumps for each component and mixing is limited to a specific mixer, making the system complex and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A simplified metering method using a single metering pump with multiple supply channels and valves, where the valves alternate to allow different components to be suctioned into the pump, enhancing mixing by ensuring components are in contact within the pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If separate pumps are used for each component, then metering precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple component supply channels and their respective pumps are merged into a single metering pump with multiple inlet channels. Each component product has its own supply channel with a valve, but all channels feed into the same metering pump chamber where components are mixed and metered together, reducing the number of pumps from multiple to one
Solution Approach 2:
The single metering pump is designed to perform multiple functions: it can meter different component products through its multiple inlet channels, mix them within its chamber, and deliver the mixed product. This multi-functional design replaces the need for separate single-function pumps for each component
2Device complexity
If mixing is carried out only at the mixer, then mixing function is simplified, but mixing effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Components are preliminarily mixed within the metering pump chamber before reaching the main mixer. As components are suctioned through different inlet channels into the same chamber, they come into contact and begin mixing early in the delivery process, enhancing overall mixing effectiveness before the product reaches the applicator
3Device complexity
If a single metering pump with alternating valves is used, then device complexity is reduced, but component contact time decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The metering pump operates with continuous alternating valve switching during the suction phase, ensuring that different components are continuously introduced into the chamber in sequence. This continuous alternating action maintains constant component contact and mixing throughout the suction process, compensating for the reduced individual component residence time
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method simplifies the metering process, improves mixing by ensuring continuous contact between components, and reduces the complexity of the system by eliminating the need for separate pumps for each component.
Implementation Method 1
suction by the metering pump of a volume during a suction phase of the metering pump, at least two of the respective valves being alternately, one after the other, in the open configuration during suction
Implementation Method 2
each valve having at least one closed configuration, wherein the valve prevents the passage of the corresponding component product to the inlet, and at least one open configuration, wherein the valve permits the passage of the corresponding component product to the inlet
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a metering method for a multi-component coating product for application, comprising the following steps:provision of a metering device comprising a metering pump and respective component product supply channels, each component product supply channel being provided with a respective valve having a closed and an open configuration, the outlet being suitable for being connected to a coating product applicator; andsuction by the metering pump of a volume during a suction phase of the metering pump, at least two of the respective valves being alternately, one after the other, in the open configuration during suction, in such a way that the volume sucked-in during said suction phase comprises alternately a plurality of component products.The invention further relates to an associated metering device and application device.