Dual-Impeller Fuel Pump Reducing Pressure Pulses and Vapor Lock
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel delivery systems for internal combustion engines face inefficiencies due to high energy consumption from rotating impellers, are prone to vapor lock, and generate pressure pulses, which disrupt smooth fuel flow.
Innovation Solution
A pulse-free fuel pump device with a dual-impeller system and a stabilizing stator, driven by a dynamically controlled rotor, which operates at varying RPMs to ensure consistent and smooth fuel flow, preventing vapor lock and minimizing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If conventional impeller-based pumps are used to generate high fuel pressure, then the necessary fuel pressure is achieved, but the energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pump is divided into two separate impellers: a first impeller that operates at lower speed to move fuel, and a second impeller that operates at higher speed to pressurize the fuel. This segmentation allows each impeller to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing the overall energy consumption compared to a single high-speed impeller system.
2Stress or pressure
If impellers rotate at high speeds to achieve desired fuel pressure, then high-pressure delivery is accomplished, but vapor lock occurs due to fuel vaporization
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel pressurization process is segmented into two stages: the first impeller moves fuel at lower speed, keeping it cool and preventing vaporization; the second impeller then pressurizes the already-moved fuel. This prevents vapor lock by avoiding high-speed rotation that would generate excessive heat and vapor pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The first impeller performs the preliminary action of moving fuel before the second impeller pressurizes it. By pre-moving the fuel at lower speed, the system prevents fuel vaporization before pressurization occurs, eliminating the root cause of vapor lock.
3Productivity
If traditional fuel pumps operate to deliver fuel, then fuel flow is achieved, but pressure pulses are generated that disrupt smooth flow
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel delivery process is divided into two sequential impeller stages that work together to smooth out pressure pulses. The first impeller creates initial flow, and the second impeller refines and pressurizes it, resulting in smoother fuel delivery compared to single-impeller systems.
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 device provides reliable, continuous, and pulse-free fuel delivery, enhancing engine performance and longevity by preventing vapor lock and reducing energy consumption, while being adaptable for both low and high-pressure applications.
Implementation Method 1
A pulse free fuel pump device includes a rotor configured to rotate and drive the first and second impellers
Implementation Method 2
a first impeller adapted to begin the process of pressurizing fuel; a second impeller positioned downstream of the first impeller and adapted to further increase fuel pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A pulse free fuel pump device designed to provide smooth, continuous fuel flow without pressure pulses is disclosed. The device includes a housing, a first impeller operating at a relatively low RPM to initiate fuel pressurization, and a second impeller operating at a relatively higher RPM to achieve final high pressure. A stator is positioned between the impellers to stabilize the fuel flow, and a rotor, connected to both impellers via a shaft provides synchronized rotation and reduces pulsation. The device is integrated into a fuel system comprising a fuel tank, a fuel filter, and a high-pressure fuel rail distributing fuel to injectors. The method of operation involves installing the pump in the fuel supply line, connecting it to the turbine's electrical system, and dynamically controlling rotor speed based on fuel demand, ensuring consistent, pulse-free fuel delivery to the combustion chamber.