Submersible Pump Magnetic Clutch Impeller Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Submersible pumps operating at constant RPM during low or no fuel flow conditions lead to undesirable high pressures, potentially damaging fuel dispensing system components, and existing solutions like variable speed drives or bypass valves are complex and interfere with leak detection systems.
Innovation Solution
A submersible pump with a magnetic clutch activated impeller that adjusts its rotational speed and axial position in response to downstream pressure changes, using a magnetic coupling between the impeller and control structure to regulate torque and flow rate, thereby maintaining stable pressure levels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the pump operates at constant RPM during low or no fuel flow conditions, then the pump maintains simple operation and structure, but high pressures are created that may damage fuel dispensing system components
Solution Approach 1:
The impeller is configured to translate axially along the shaft in response to downstream pressure changes, dynamically adjusting its position to modulate the magnetic coupling strength and thereby control the rotational speed of the impeller. This dynamic adjustment prevents high pressure buildup during low flow conditions while maintaining simple pump structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling between the control structure and impeller is modified by changing the axial position of the impeller relative to the control structure. This parameter change (axial displacement) alters the magnetic coupling strength, which in turn adjusts the impeller rotational speed to maintain stable downstream pressure.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a variable speed drive is used to control impeller speed during low flow conditions, then pressure fluctuations are reduced, but the system becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system self-regulates its own speed without external control systems. The impeller automatically translates axially in response to downstream pressure changes, and the magnetic coupling between the control structure and impeller automatically adjusts the rotational speed to maintain stable pressure, eliminating the need for complex variable speed drives.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical/electrical variable speed drive systems with a purely magnetic coupling mechanism. The magnetic coupling between the control structure and impeller provides smooth, contactless speed control based on axial position, eliminating the need for motors, gears, or electronic controllers.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a bypass valve is used to divert fuel back to the UST during low flow conditions, then pressure is limited, but leak detection capability is interfered with
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the pressure control function from the fuel flow path by using a magnetic coupling mechanism that directly regulates impeller speed. This eliminates the need for bypass valves that would divert fuel, thereby preserving the integrity of leak detection systems while maintaining pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic coupling acts as an intermediary between the drive shaft and impeller, providing smooth speed control without mechanical contact or fuel diversion. This intermediary mechanism allows pressure control to be achieved through magnetic field interaction rather than through bypass valves that would interfere with leak detection.
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 magnetic clutch system effectively reduces pressure fluctuations during low flow conditions, preventing component damage and maintaining efficient fuel dispensing while avoiding interference with leak detection systems.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic coupling between the impeller and the control structure. The magnetic coupling is defined by a conductive portion and a plurality of magnets proximate the conductive portion such that rotation of the control structure causes rotation of the impeller
Implementation Method 2
The impeller is configured to translate axially along the shaft in response to a change in downstream pressure to alter the strength of the magnetic coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A pumping apparatus comprises a rotatable shaft coupled to a motor. At least one control structure is mounted on the shaft, and at least one impeller is carried by the shaft. The impeller is adapted to rotate independently of the shaft so as to pump a fluid. The apparatus also comprises a magnetic coupling between the control structure and the impeller. Further, the impeller is adapted to translate axially along the shaft in response to a change in downstream pressure to alter the strength of the magnetic coupling.