Concentric Drive Shaft Peristaltic Pump for Compact Multi-Channel Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-channel peristaltic pumps lack flexibility and ease of operation, as they do not allow independent control of the speed and direction of fluid flow in each channel, and require a large space for multiple motors and gear mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel peristaltic pump design featuring at least three concentric, nested drive shafts, each coupled to a motor via a pulley or timing belt, allowing independent operation of roller heads with a control system that includes a processor and user input for selective speed and direction control, enabling compact and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple motors and gear mechanisms are used to provide independent control of each channel, then independent control of fluid flow in each channel is achieved, but the device size and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple drive shafts (first, second, and third drive shafts) into a single integrated rotor assembly, eliminating the need for multiple separate motors and gear mechanisms. Each drive shaft is rotatable independently within the rotor, allowing independent control of each channel while maintaining a compact, unified structure that reduces overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor serves as a universal component that houses multiple independent drive shafts, each capable of driving rollers in different channels. This multi-functional design allows a single rotor structure to provide independent control for multiple channels without requiring separate motor assemblies for each channel.
2Ease of operation
If multiple motors and gear mechanisms are used to provide independent control of each channel, then independent control of fluid flow in each channel is achieved, but the required space increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the first, second, and third drive shafts are arranged concentrically within the rotor. The rollers associated with each drive shaft are positioned at different radial distances from the rotor center, with inner drive shafts having smaller radii than outer ones. This nesting allows multiple independent drive mechanisms to occupy overlapping spatial volumes, dramatically reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining independent control capability.
3Ease of operation
If rollers are spaced further apart to accommodate motors and gear mechanisms, then independent control is achieved, but the roller head placement flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The nested arrangement of drive shafts and rollers allows flexible positioning of roller heads along the tubing path. Since each drive shaft rotates independently within the rotor, roller heads can be placed at various positions around the rotor circumference without requiring additional spacing for external motors, providing adaptability for different tubing configurations and pump head designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The independent rotatability of each drive shaft within the rotor creates dynamic flexibility in roller head placement. The system can adapt to different operational requirements by adjusting the position and configuration of roller heads on each drive shaft while maintaining independent control, enhancing versatility for various pumping applications.
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
Enables independent control of fluid flow in each channel, reducing the required space and allowing for closer roller head placement, facilitating easier use and a more compact design while maintaining flexibility in operation.
Implementation Method 1
one or more rollers or shoes are rotated within the casing and compress the tube; as the roller or shoe compresses the tube in one location, the compression forces the movement of the fluid within the tube
Implementation Method 2
elastic tubes that are stretched to varying degrees and, as a result of the Poisson effect from such stretching, reduces the flow path cross-section area in the tubes
Data Source
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AI summary
A multi-channel peristaltic pump in which each channel can be operated independently of the others. A peristaltic pump includes a plurality of motors, each of which drives a rotor shaft which is independently rotatable around an axis and which rotates a roller head having a plurality of rollers. The rotor shafts are disposed in a concentric manner. The peristaltic pump further can include a control system allowing an operator to selectively determine the speed and direction of rotation of each of the roller heads of the pump.