Foam Precursor Supply Apparatus with Segmented Batcher Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for supplying foam precursors to multiple foam machines are complex and expensive, requiring cumbersome piping and pumping systems, which complicates recycling and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus comprising intermediate bulk containers with batcher stands and pumps that connect to foam machines via supply lines, allowing for efficient and flexible delivery of foam precursors, with quick connect fittings and remote batcher stands for reduced handling and increased recycling potential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a complicated system of piping and pumps is constructed to supply foam precursors to multiple machines, then the foam machines can be supplied efficiently, but the system becomes expensive and difficult to maintain and recycle
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the foam precursor supply into separate intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) for each machine, with each IBC equipped with its own batcher pump. This segmentation eliminates the need for complex interconnected piping systems while maintaining efficient supply to multiple machines, as each machine has its dedicated supply pathway.
Solution Approach 2:
Each foam machine is paired with its own IBC and batcher pump, creating a self-contained supply unit. The batcher pump automatically meters and transfers foam precursor from the IBC to the machine without requiring external control systems or complex piping, enabling autonomous operation and simplifying maintenance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If totes are returned and recycled, then environmental sustainability is improved, but the pumping system prevents recycling
Solution Approach 1:
The batcher pump is extracted from the IBC structure and positioned externally, connected only through simple bottom outlet connections. This separation allows the IBC totes to be easily detached, cleaned, and recycled without any pumping system components attached, while the pumps remain as separate reusable assets.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables easy discarding of used foam precursor from the IBC and recovering/recycling of the IBC tote itself. The simple connection design allows rapid detachment of totes for recycling programs, while the batcher pumps are recovered and reused with new totes.
3Ease of operation
If batcher pumps are inserted into the top opening of the tote, then the pumps can supply foam precursor, but the pumps must be handled during every tote change
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the pump from the tote by providing each IBC with its own dedicated batcher pump that connects at the bottom outlet. This eliminates the need to insert or remove pumps through top openings during tote changes, as pumps remain permanently mounted to their respective IBCs or are automatically connected through bottom outlets.
Solution Approach 2:
The batcher pumps are pre-positioned and pre-connected to the IBC bottom outlets before tote changes occur. When a tote is replaced, the new tote is already configured with its batcher pump connected at the bottom, eliminating the time-consuming process of inserting pumps during tote changes.
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 efficient and cost-effective supply of foam precursors to multiple machines, simplifying maintenance and allowing for tote recycling by eliminating the need for complex piping and reducing handling of pumps.
Implementation Method 1
a first batcher pump positioned in said first batcher stand such that foam precursor chemical can be drawn upwardly by a suction end of the batcher pump inserted down into the tube of the batcher stand and expelled into a supply line to the foam machine
Data Source
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AI summary
Apparatus for supplying multiple foam machines with foam precursor chemicals. The apparatus comprises first and second totes (12, 22) having a top opening and a bottom drain (16, 26) and containing first and second foam precursor chemicals, first and second supply lines (30, 40) connected to the bottom drains (16, 26) of the first and second totes (12, 22) and in fluid communication with first and second sets of batcher stands (32, 34), and first and second sets of batcher pumps (50, 52) each of which is positioned in a respective one of the first and second sets of batcher stands (32, 34). Each batcher pump (50, 52) is adapted to be in fluid communication with a respective one of the foam machines.