Coiled Fluid Conduit Rotation-to-Flow Converter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for converting rotation into fluid flow and vice versa are not compact and/or cost-efficient.
Innovation Solution
A fluid conduit coiled around a rotational axis with separate or common inlets and outlets for fluids of different densities, incorporating a fluid returning arrangement that selectively allows pressurized fluid to return while depressurizing, utilizing a pressure reducing arrangement and controllable valves to manage fluid flow and rotation, and optionally including a conversion arrangement to generate electricity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a coiled fluid conduit is used to convert rotation into fluid flow, then the device achieves simple structure and reliability, but the apparatus size becomes large and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where the fluid conduit is coiled around the rotational axis, with the rotational mechanism positioned inside the coiled conduit. This nesting allows the rotational components to be housed within the space already occupied by the fluid pathway, eliminating the need for separate external housings and reducing overall apparatus volume while maintaining structural integrity and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a linear or planar arrangement to a three-dimensional coiled configuration. By coiling the fluid conduit around the rotational axis in multiple turns, the design utilizes the radial and axial dimensions simultaneously, packing more functional elements into a compact cylindrical footprint and reducing the apparatus's external dimensions.
2Ease of operation
If separate inlets and outlets for different density fluids are provided, then fluid flow control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the coiled fluid conduit to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the fluid pathway and the structural framework for the rotational mechanism, while also providing separation zones for different density fluids. The same coiled structure enables both fluid transport and mechanical support, reducing the need for additional separate components and simplifying the overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple inlets and outlets into a integrated coiled conduit system. Rather than providing separate dedicated pathways for each fluid entry and exit point, the coiled conduit consolidates these functions into a unified structure where fluid entry and exit points are distributed along the coil, reducing component count while maintaining operational control.
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 apparatus achieves more efficient and compact conversion of rotation into fluid flow and vice versa, with improved energy efficiency and reduced costs.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid conduit coiled around a rotational axis... When the coiled fluid conduit is rotated against a pressure head the combined center of mass shifts along the coiled fluid conduit corresponding to the gradually increased pressure inside the coiled fluid conduit
Implementation Method 2
the fluid returning arrangement is configured to selectively allow pressurized second fluid to return to the second inlet, while depressurizing the pressurized second fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An apparatus for converting rotation to fluid flow, comprising a fluid conduit coiled around a rotational axis, the fluid conduit having a first inlet for receiving first fluid having a first density and a second inlet for receiving second fluid having a second density, and a first outlet for output of first fluid and a second outlet for output of second fluid; a motor coupled to the fluid conduit to rotate the fluid conduit around the rotational axis in a first angular direction such that first fluid portions of first fluid and second fluid portions of second fluid are transported along the fluid conduit towards the first outlet, while being pressurized; and a fluid returning arrangement, fluid flow connecting the second outlet and the second inlet for selectively allowing pressurized second fluid to return from the second outlet to the second inlet, while depressurizing the pressurized second fluid.