Gearwheel Venturi Transmission for Pressure Control in Oil-Free Compressors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmission systems in compressors and vacuum pumps face issues with pressure build-up due to air leakage, leading to lubricant contamination and inefficiency, particularly in oil-free applications, where external power sources for venturi channels can cause additional losses and reliability concerns.
Innovation Solution
A transmission system with a housing divided into two chambers, where the rotation of gearwheels creates a 'gearwind' effect, generating negative pressure in a channel to extract air and lubricant from the first chamber to the second, maintaining low pressure in the first chamber and eliminating the need for external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If compressed gas is used to obtain extraction from the transmission to the oil separator via a venturi channel, then the oil-air mixture is extracted from the transmission, but this implies a loss of efficiency of the machine
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system extracts the oil-air mixture using its own rotating elements (gearwheels or impellers) that generate a vortex flow, eliminating the need for external compressed gas sources. The rotation of these elements creates a self-sustaining extraction mechanism that does not compromise overall machine efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the pneumatic venturi extraction system with a mechanical vortex generation system. Instead of using compressed gas flow dynamics, the system uses the mechanical rotation of gearwheels or impellers to directly create the extraction effect, substituting one mechanical principle for another more efficient one.
2Reliability
If an external (electrical) source with a ventilator is used to obtain extraction, then extraction to the oil separator takes place, but this implies an extra consumption of electricity and additional risk in case of power failure
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction function is merged with the existing rotating components of the transmission system. The gearwheels or impellers that are already necessary for the transmission's operation are designed to simultaneously generate the vortex flow needed for extraction, combining two functions into a single integrated mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission system uses its own rotational motion to perform the extraction function, making the system self-sufficient. No external electrical sources or additional power-consuming components are required, as the extraction is achieved through the natural rotation of the transmission elements during normal operation.
3Ease of manufacture
If the branch for venturi channel is interrupted or detaches, then the venturi channel loses its effect, but no extraction to the oil separator takes place
Solution Approach 1:
The extraction mechanism is divided into multiple independent interaction zones around the rotating element. Even if one section of the housing or channel is compromised, the continuous rotation ensures that other sections maintain the extraction effect, providing redundancy and continuous functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating extraction mechanism ensures continuous operation as long as the rotation persists. Unlike static venturi channels that require precise continuous connections, the rotating system maintains extraction through continuous motion, tolerating minor interruptions or detachments in the housing structure.
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
This solution effectively manages pressure differences across seals, prevents lubricant contamination, and enhances efficiency by automatically adapting extraction rates with gearwheel speed, without requiring external power, thus ensuring reliable operation and minimizing energy losses.
Implementation Method 1
the form of the second chamber is such that when the gearwheel in question rotates, a gas flow is created around this gearwheel which causes a negative pressure in the channel by the venturi effect
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission between a drive shaft and a driven shaft comprises a housing and at least a driven gearwheel that is mounted on the driven shaft and a drive gearwheel that is mounted on a drive shaft. The housing comprises two separated chambers, i.e. a first chamber that is connected to the driven shaft and a second chamber which is separate from the first chamber, whereby the first chamber is connected via a channel with the second chamber, whereby around the drive gearwheel or driven gearwheel the second chamber is formed, whereby the form of the second chamber is such that when the gearwheel in question rotates, a gas flow is created around this gearwheel which causes a negative pressure in the channel by the venturi effect.