Asynchronous Multiple Diaphragm Pump for Adjustable Flow Ratios
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiple diaphragm pumps operate with synchronized membrane movement, limiting their application to metering pumps with fixed flow ratios, as the membranes always move in push-pull, restricting their adaptability for handling different flow rates.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a drive chamber with mechanically connected drive means that allow asynchronous operation of multiple membranes, enabling independent movement and adjustable flow ratios through the use of different gears, allowing the pump to function as a metering pump with adjustable flow ratios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If membranes are operated synchronously in opposite directions, then the pump structure is simple and reliable, but the flow rate is fixed and cannot be adjusted for different applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from synchronous to asynchronous membrane operation. The drive system is designed to independently control each membrane's movement timing, allowing the operational parameters to be dynamically adjusted. This enables the pump to adapt to different flow rate requirements while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as the asynchronous control is achieved through programmable logic rather than complex mechanical linkages.
2Productivity
If a single drive operates multiple membranes asynchronously, then flow rate variability is achieved, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The single drive system is designed with multi-functionality to operate multiple membranes asynchronously. The drive unit incorporates a control mechanism that can independently regulate each membrane's actuation timing and duration. This universal design allows the same drive to handle various flow rate requirements by adjusting operational parameters, eliminating the need for multiple specialized drives and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the temporal parameters of membrane operation. The control system adjusts the timing, duration, and sequence of each membrane's movement to achieve desired flow rates. By varying these operational parameters rather than changing the physical structure, the system achieves flow rate variability while keeping the hardware configuration relatively simple and manageable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If membranes move in opposite directions simultaneously, then pumping action is continuous and efficient, but the pump cannot function as a metering pump with adjustable ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains pumping efficiency while achieving metering pump capability through dynamic control of membrane operation. The control mechanism allows flexible adjustment of each membrane's actuation timing and duration, enabling the pump to adapt between continuous efficient pumping and precise metering modes. This dynamic adaptability resolves the contradiction by allowing the same system to optimize for either efficiency or precision depending on operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
Double diaphragm pumps have been known in the art for a long time. These typically use a plunger to operate both diaphragms in opposite directions. However, it is also known to achieve a corresponding function, also in opposite directions, using independent but synchronized drives. Building on this, the present invention aims to utilize the general capabilities of multiple diaphragm pumps more effectively by deviating from the synchronized operation of such a pump. By completely decoupling the pump components, a metering pump can be implemented with a single pump, in which all components deliver unequal flow rates, thus enabling the creation of a predefined mixture.