Flow Path Conversion Pump With Diaphragm Switching and Low Flow Loss
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow path conversion pumps for washing machines require multiple motors for circulation and drainage operations, leading to space constraints and high costs, while also experiencing significant flow loss and assembly complexity due to rapid flow path changes and diaphragm deformation issues.
Innovation Solution
A flow path conversion pump design that utilizes a single motor to operate two pumps by incorporating an impeller with parallel housing outlets, a flow path switch with a diaphragm for path switching, and a circular flow path switch shape to minimize flow loss and facilitate assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a single motor and impeller are configured to switch rotation direction to serve as two pumps, then the number of motors is reduced, but the structure becomes complex and assembly becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two pump functions into a single pump body by providing two discharge ports (first discharge port and second discharge port) that are extended in parallel in the same direction. The impeller housing integrates both discharge paths, allowing one motor and impeller to perform dual pump functions without requiring separate pump units, thereby reducing installation space while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The single pump unit is designed to perform multiple functions by switching the discharge path. The flow path switch mechanism allows the same impeller housing to direct water flow to either the first discharge port or the second discharge port based on operational requirements, enabling one pump to replace two separate pumps while maintaining functional versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the flow path direction is rapidly changed (right angle or acute angle), then the pump can switch between circulation and drainage modes, but flow loss increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved flow paths instead of sharp angles to guide water flow between different discharge ports. The flow path switch and impeller housing are designed with smooth transitions that maintain laminar flow, avoiding abrupt directional changes. This curved geometry reduces turbulence and energy loss while enabling effective switching between circulation and drainage modes.
3Device complexity
If the diaphragm is not elastically deformed sufficiently to block flow paths, then the structure remains simple, but backward flow toward unwanted flow paths occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a diaphragm made of elastic material that can deform under pressure to seal flow paths. The diaphragm is positioned within the flow path switch mechanism and responds to pressure differentials by flexing to block either the first or second discharge path, providing reliable sealing without complex mechanical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The diaphragm is designed to dynamically respond to operating conditions by deforming elastically in response to pressure changes. During circulation mode, the diaphragm blocks the drainage path; during drainage mode, it blocks the circulation path. This dynamic adaptation ensures proper flow path sealing without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms.
4Ease of operation
If a force is applied to the diaphragm to induce continuous elastic deformation, then flow path switching is achieved, but the diaphragm may be damaged or detached
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm undergoes periodic deformation corresponding to the switching between circulation and drainage modes. Rather than continuous deformation, the diaphragm flexes only when mode switching is required, returning to its original position during steady operation. This periodic action reduces cumulative stress and extends diaphragm life while maintaining operational effectiveness.
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 minimizes flow loss by forming an obtuse deformation angle in the flow path, simplifies assembly by reducing the number of parts and facilitating sealing during assembly, and prevents water leakage and reverse flow by maintaining the diaphragm in a pre-formed shape.
Implementation Method 1
an impeller built in the impeller housing and rotated by a motor
Implementation Method 2
a flow path switch forming an internal space, including a first switch inlet and a second switch inlet, which fluidly communicate with the first housing outlet and the second housing outlet, respectively
Data Source
AI summary
Introduced is a flow path conversion pump comprising: an inlet pipe for guiding a flow of water, an impeller housing having an impeller built therein, and including a first housing outlet and a second housing outlet formed parallel to a tangential direction of rotation of the, a flow path switch forming an internal space, including a first switch inlet and a second switch inlet, which communicate with the first housing outlet and the second housing outlet, respectively, and including a first outlet and a second outlet, which communicate with the first switch inlet and the second switch inlet, respectively, a diaphragm disposed in the internal space of the flow path switch, separating the first switch inlet and the second switch inlet, and separating the first outlet and the second outlet and a motor connected to the impeller to transmit power.