Micro-Scale EHD Modular Cartridge Pump Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro hydrodynamic (EHD) pumps are large, complex, and difficult to service, with reliability issues in electrical connectivity, limiting their practical application and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A micro-scale EHD modular cartridge pump design featuring a cartridge body with interspersed conductive electrodes and alignment pins for reliable electrical connections, reducing component count and allowing modular flexibility, with Parylene coating for insulation and a 'comb' configuration for efficient fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If typical EHD pump designs are used, then heat transport performance is superior, but device size is large and component complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is divided into modular cartridge assemblies that can be independently manufactured, tested, and replaced. Each cartridge contains integrated electrodes and flow channels, segmenting the complex system into manageable units that reduce overall component complexity while maintaining heat transport performance
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple functions are merged into the cartridge body including fluid flow channels, electrode mounting structures, and electrical connection points. This integration reduces the number of separate components needed while preserving the superior heat transport capabilities of EHD pumping
2Reliability
If typical EHD pump designs are used, then pumping function is achieved, but accessibility for service or replacement is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge assembly is designed as a self-contained modular unit that can be easily removed and replaced without disassembling the entire pump system. This segmentation enables quick service access while maintaining reliable pumping function through the integrated cartridge design
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode assembly is extracted as a separate replaceable cartridge that can be removed from the pump housing for service or replacement. This extraction improves accessibility for maintenance while the cartridge maintains the essential pumping function when installed
3Power
If typical EHD pump designs are used, then electrical pumping is achieved, but electrical connectivity reliability has issues
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical connection points are merged directly into the cartridge body structure rather than using separate connectors. This integration eliminates connector failure modes and improves electrical connectivity reliability while maintaining the electrical pumping function
Solution Approach 2:
Conductive elements within the cartridge body serve as intermediaries between the external power source and the electrode assembly. These integrated conductive pathways provide reliable electrical connectivity by eliminating external connector interfaces that are prone to failure
4Volume of moving object
If EHD pumps are scaled down to micro scale, then size is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Electrodes and flow channels are merged into a single cartridge body structure that is manufactured as one integrated component. This integration eliminates the need for precise assembly of separate electrodes, reducing manufacturing precision requirements while achieving micro-scale pump size
Solution Approach 2:
The micro pump is segmented into a cartridge module that can be manufactured with controlled precision using additive manufacturing or other advanced fabrication techniques. This modular segmentation allows for relaxed tolerances in individual components while maintaining overall micro-scale dimensions
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 design achieves efficient heat dissipation with low power consumption, reliable electrical connections, and modular flexibility, enhancing the practicality and reliability of EHD pumps for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
Electro hydrodynamic (EHD) conduction pumping relies on the interaction between electric fields and dissociated charges in dielectric fluids
Data Source
AI summary
An electro hydrodynamic pump apparatus includes a cartridge body member that includes an interior cavity portion and openings on either end of the cartridge body member. A first electrode member is disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member. The first electrode member includes a conductive bar member which has a plurality of spaced apart elements extending therefrom. A second electrode member is also disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member. The second electrode member also includes a conductive bar with a plurality of spaced apart elements extending therefrom. The elements of the first electrode member are configure to be interspersed with the elements of the second electrode member when the first electrode member and the second electrode member are disposed within the interior cavity portion of the cartridge body member.