Bi-directional Pump Valve Network for Mode Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high pressure pump systems lack the ability to quickly and easily reconfigure operational modes in response to different scenarios, which limits their adaptability and efficiency in various applications such as wave energy conversion and water desalination.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional pump system with a piston and piston rod that can translate within a cylinder in two opposite directions, connected to a valve network allowing configuration into single-acting or double-acting pumping modes, as well as inactive free motion and rigid modes, enabling flexible operation and adaptability through a remotely or locally controlled valve system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed operational mode is used in high pressure pump systems, then the system structure is simple, but the adaptability to different scenarios is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is designed to perform multiple functions by switching between single-acting pumping mode, double-acting pumping mode, and inactive modes through a controllable valve network, allowing one system to adapt to different operational scenarios without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamically controllable valves that can change the operational mode in real-time based on scenario requirements, enabling the pump to transition between single-acting and double-acting modes or inactive modes as needed, making the system flexible and adaptable rather than fixed
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional pump systems are used, then the manufacturing is straightforward, but the reconfiguration capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve network is divided into multiple controllable valve elements that can be independently actuated, allowing modular control of different pump functions. This segmentation enables flexible reconfiguration through electronic or remote control signals while maintaining a relatively simple physical structure that is easier to manufacture and implement
3Productivity
If single-acting pumping mode is used, then the system is simpler to control, but the productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The same valve network infrastructure serves multiple purposes: it enables both single-acting and double-acting pumping modes, as well as inactive modes, without requiring separate control systems for each function. This universal valve design achieves high productivity in double-acting mode while maintaining manageable complexity through shared control architecture
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
The system provides a high pressure fluid output that can be configured for various operational modes, enhancing adaptability and efficiency in applications like wave energy conversion and water desalination, allowing for continuous high pressure fluid delivery and flexible operation.
Implementation Method 1
a piston and piston rod that can translate within a cylinder in two opposite directions, wherein the piston separates the cylinder into two variable-sized chambers, and wherein the piston displaces fluid located in each chamber when the piston is in motion due to external forces
Data Source
AI summary
A bi-directional pump system that can be configured for a plurality of operating modes. The bi-directional pump system includes a plurality of bi-directional pumps each having their own valving system that are connected to a common high pressure manifold, a low pressure manifold and a suction manifold. Via the respective valve systems, each pump can be configured into: (1) a single-acting pumping mode; (2) a double-acting pumping mode; (3) an inactive free motion mode; and (4) an inactive rigid mode. One exemplary application of the bi-directional pump system is on an articulated wave energy conversion system that consists of three floating barges: a front barge, a center barge and a rear barge where the front barge and center barge are hingedly connected as are the center barge and the rear barge. A first set of the bi-directional pumps span the first hinge connection and the second set of bi-directional pumps span the second hinge connection. The bi-directional pump system intakes sea water and, using wave energy, outputs a high pressure flow of sea water for water desalination and/or for driving electrical generators.