Hydrodynamic Coupling Pump Reversal for Fill and Lubrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrodynamic clutches require complex control systems and additional lubrication pumps, leading to increased complexity and energy consumption, as well as larger tank volumes due to constant fluid circulation.
Innovation Solution
A filling-controlled hydrodynamic clutch with a pump device that can vary flow direction and volume, eliminating the need for separate lubrication pumps and reducing fluid circulation, using an electric motor controlled by a frequency converter for efficient operation and a smaller tank size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate lubrication pump is used to supply lubrication points, then reliable lubrication is ensured, but device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lubrication pump function with the existing filling pump, eliminating the need for a separate lubrication pump. The filling pump is equipped with a pump outlet that can be connected to both the working chamber and lubrication points, integrating two functions into one device. This reduces device complexity while maintaining reliable lubrication supply.
Solution Approach 2:
The filling pump is designed to perform multiple functions: filling the working chamber with fluid and supplying lubrication points. By making the pump universal, the system eliminates the need for dedicated separate pumps, reducing overall system complexity and energy consumption while ensuring both functions are reliably performed.
2Temperature
If constant fluid circulation is maintained in direct circulation system, then heat management is improved, but tank volume and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic control of the circulation pump, allowing it to operate at variable speeds based on actual system needs. The pump can be operated at reduced speed during normal operation and at full speed when rapid filling or cooling is required. This dynamic operation reduces energy consumption while maintaining effective heat management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing operational parameters of the pump, including flow rate and pressure, to match actual system requirements. By adjusting pump parameters rather than maintaining constant high-level operation, energy consumption is reduced while heat management effectiveness is preserved.
3Device complexity
If pump unit operates in both filling and draining directions, then device complexity is reduced, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical control systems with electronic control to manage the pump's bidirectional operation. An electronic control unit receives signals and automatically adjusts pump operation, eliminating the need for complex mechanical control mechanisms. This substitution reduces device complexity while the electronic system efficiently handles the increased control requirements.
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
Simplifies the construction and operation of hydrodynamic clutches, reduces energy consumption, and allows for a smaller tank size, enhancing integration and reducing the need for additional valves and fluid lines, while maintaining reliable fluid control and heat management.
Implementation Method 1
a pump unit (164) hydraulically arranged between a fluid source (160) and the direct circulation system (154)
Implementation Method 2
When the working chamber is filled with fluid, a hydromechanical coupling is created between the rotational movements of the input and output sides
Implementation Method 3
The outlet is typically located radially on the outside of the impeller, so that fluid is forced through the outlet by centrifugal force, similar to a pressure pump
Data Source
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AI summary
A filling-controlled hydrodynamic coupling comprises a pump wheel and a turbine wheel which delimit a working chamber and which can be mechanically coupled to one another by means of a hydraulic fluid; a direct circuit, which connects a hydraulic outlet to a hydraulic inlet of the working chamber; a pump device, which is arranged hydraulically between a fluid source and the direct circuit; and a lubrication line, which leads from the pump device to a lubrication point of the coupling. Here, the pump device is designed to convey fluid in a first conveying direction from the fluid source into the working chamber and into the lubrication line or in a second conveying direction from the working chamber to the fluid source.