Membrane Fluid Flow Generator for Clog-Resistant Compact Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow generation devices, such as hydraulic thrusters and pumps, face challenges in adjusting power and flow rate efficiently while maintaining a compact form factor and low manufacturing and maintenance costs, and are prone to clogging.
Innovation Solution
A device with a frame, flanges, and membranes that allow for reciprocating translational motion of the membrane, driven by an electromagnetic actuator, which generates fluid flow without opposing walls, enabling high-frequency movement and reducing clogging risks, and can be made with marine-safe materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hydraulic flow-generating devices are used, then fluid flow can be generated, but the devices are prone to clogging by objects and algae
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the flange component from the traditional hydraulic thruster structure. By extracting the flange, the device eliminates the enclosed propulsion chamber that traps debris and algae, thereby preventing clogging while maintaining the essential flow-generating function through the membrane's reciprocating motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the traditional integrated thruster structure into separate components: the frame, the membrane, and the actuator. This segmentation allows the membrane to move freely without being constrained by a flange-enclosed chamber, enabling debris to pass through without causing clogging while maintaining effective fluid flow generation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If power and flow rate adjustment is implemented, then operational flexibility improves, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the membrane's reciprocating motion through the actuator. By varying the actuator's operating parameters (frequency, amplitude, or stroke length), the device can adjust power output and flow rate continuously without requiring additional mechanical components or complex valve systems, thereby maintaining simplicity while achieving adaptability.
3Volume of moving object
If compact form factor is achieved, then space utilization improves, but manufacturing and maintenance costs may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the frame and membrane into a simplified integrated structure where the membrane is directly mounted on the frame without requiring a flange assembly. This merging reduces the number of parts, simplifies manufacturing processes, and lowers maintenance costs while achieving a compact form factor suitable for marine applications.
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 provides a compact, cost-effective, and low-maintenance fluid flow generation system with adjustable power and flow rate, minimizing clogging and allowing for efficient fluid flow generation with reduced parts and improved thermal performance.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator configured to cause the at least one membrane to move in a reciprocating translational motion
Implementation Method 2
Each flange cooperates with at least one membrane in order to locally pressurize the fluid present in order to locally produce an increase in flow rate relative to the surrounding environment
Data Source
AI summary
A device for generating a fluid flow extending in a longitudinal direction includes:a frame,at least one flange arranged on a transverse face,at least one transversely extending membrane arranged opposite the at least one flange, the at least one membrane having a flange face opposite the at least one flange, and an outer face opposite the flange face, andat least one actuator configured to cause the at least one membrane to move in a reciprocating translational motion,wherein none of the walls are opposite the outer face of the at least one membrane.