Immersion Pipe Wedge Clamping for Low-Force Tank Pump Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching the free end of an immersion tube to an end fitting in tank pumps are cumbersome, often requiring high insertion forces and result in either too rigid or too soft bearings, leading to vibrations and maintenance difficulties.
Innovation Solution
A clamping body with a wedge section is used to facilitate insertion and provide a stable, non-fixed centering connection by rotating and clamping the immersion tube into the end fitting, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and angular misalignments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the free end of the immersion tube is inserted into the end fitting using conventional methods, then the immersion tube is fixed in position, but the insertion process is cumbersome and requires high insertion forces
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping body is designed to rotate during insertion, transforming the static insertion process into a dynamic rotational movement. This rotation allows the wedge section to progressively engage and clamp the immersion tube, reducing the peak insertion force required while maintaining effective fixation.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping body is divided into functional sections: a wedge section for initial engagement and forcing the immersion tube into the end fitting, and a clamping section for securing it in place. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently, reducing overall insertion difficulty.
2Reliability
If conventional fixed bearing designs are used to secure the immersion tube, then the connection is stable, but vibrations occur and maintenance becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping connection provides a stable yet slightly flexible attachment that can accommodate vibrations without transmitting them to the motor. The rotational clamping mechanism creates a reliable connection that remains stable during operation while allowing for easy removal when maintenance is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping body design allows the immersion tube to be easily removed and reinstalled by the same clamping mechanism that secures it during operation. This self-service feature eliminates the need for additional tools or complex disassembly procedures, making maintenance accessible and simple.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If rigid bearing designs are used to prevent vibrations, then vibration resistance improves, but the bearing becomes too stiff and insertion becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping connection creates a stable attachment point that resists vibrations during pump operation, while the rotational insertion process and wedge geometry allow for easy assembly. The dynamic clamping action provides sufficient rigidity for vibration resistance without creating an overly stiff connection that would complicate assembly.
4Reliability
If multiple parts and additional components are used to secure the immersion tube, then the connection is stable, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping body integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the wedge section for forcing the immersion tube into the end fitting, the clamping section for securing it, and the rotational mechanism for easy installation and removal. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate parts needed while maintaining connection stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamping body serves multiple purposes: it acts as a forcing tool during insertion, a securing mechanism during operation, and a removal tool during maintenance. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each stage, reducing overall device complexity while ensuring reliable connection.
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 solution reduces vibrations, simplifies assembly, and allows easy removal and reinstallation without additional parts, enhancing the durability and accessibility of the tank pump system.
Implementation Method 1
which, as the free end of the dip tube is pushed into the end piece, penetrates into the radial gap between the end piece and the free end of the dip tube
Implementation Method 2
it rotates and thereby clamps the free end of the dip tube in the end piece
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a tank unit (1) comprising at least one tank (2) and a tank pump (3) submerged in or immersed in the tank (2), preferably in the form of an eccentric screw pump (4) with a dip tube (5) which preferably extends down to the lowest extraction point of the tank (2), wherein an end nozzle (6) is attached at the lowest extraction point of the tank (2), into which the dip tube (5) is at least partially inserted, wherein at least one and preferably several clamping elements (7) are provided in the area of the free end (15) of the dip tube (5), preferably on a support ring (17) at the free end (15) of the dip tube (5).The said tank unit (1) is characterized in that the at least one clamping element (7) is designed such that in its relaxed position it has at least one wedge section (8) which, in the course of inserting the free end (15) of the dip tube (5) into the end fitting (6), penetrates the radial gap (9) between the end fitting (6) and the free end (15) of the dip tube (5), and that the at least one clamping element (7) is designed such that, in the course of fully inserting the free end (15) of the dip tube (5) into the end fitting (6), it rotates and thereby clamps the free end (15) of the dip tube (5) in the end fitting (6).