Compact Volumetric Pump Gravity Check Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical systems face inefficiencies in lubrication due to excessive lubricant distribution, leading to power losses and potential degradation of components, while existing pumps suffer from reduced volumetric efficiency and leakage issues.
Innovation Solution
A mechanically driven pump with gravity-actuated, springless check valves that are vertically oriented to ensure reliable and focused lubrication, operating independently of rotational direction and capable of self-priming, reducing complexity and leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large amount of lubricant is splashed to locations in the gearbox where lubrication is not needed, then lubrication coverage is improved, but transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements focused lubrication delivery through pump outlets positioned at specific locations to provide lubrication only where needed, rather than general splashing throughout the gearbox. This targeted approach ensures adequate lubrication coverage at critical components while avoiding unnecessary lubricant distribution to areas where it is not required, thereby maintaining transmission efficiency.
2Productivity
If a mechanically driven pump with spring-loaded check valves is used, then pumping action is improved, but pressure chamber pressure becomes excessively high causing component degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces spring-loaded check valves with gravity-actuated check valves that use the weight of internal balls to control valve operation. This parameter change in the valve actuation mechanism (from spring force to gravitational force) maintains effective pumping action while reducing the excessive pressure buildup in the pressure chamber, thereby preventing acute or chronic degradation of the pressure chamber, piston, and ports.
3Reliability
If electrically driven pumps are positioned inside the lubricated area, then focused lubrication is achieved, but electrical connections and serviceability are affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrically driven pumps with a mechanically driven pump that utilizes the existing mechanical system's rotational elements for drive. This substitution eliminates the need for electrical connections and wiring inside the lubricated area, reducing device complexity and improving serviceability while still achieving focused lubrication through the pump's targeted delivery system.
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 pump provides improved volumetric efficiency and targeted lubrication, minimizing power losses and component degradation, while maintaining reliability and reducing the risk of leakage.
Implementation Method 1
inlet check valve and outlet check valve do not comprise preload springs and are installed vertically in a normally closed position due to a force of gravity acting on internal balls
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for a mechanically driven pump are provided. The pump is for lubrication and comprises: a cam lobe or an eccentric mounted on and driven by a shaft; a piston being in contact with the cam lobe or the eccentric; a spring acting on the piston; an inlet check valve positioned in an inlet port; and an outlet check valve positioned in an outlet port, where the inlet check valve and the outlet check valve do not comprise preload springs and are installed vertically in a normally closed position due to a force of gravity acting on internal balls of the check valves. Orifices fluidly coupled to the inlet check valve and the outlet check valve are position outside the piston stroke to prevent the piston from acting as a guillotine valve, which may increase volumetric efficiency of the mechanically driven pump.