Mixed-Flow Pump Assembly for Debris-Handling Fluid Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump assemblies struggle to efficiently transfer fluids, particularly from tight spaces, while handling debris and maintaining efficiency, especially when dealing with dirty water containing particulates.
Innovation Solution
A pump assembly featuring a mixed-flow impeller with a reduced outer diameter and angled fluid output, a brushless direct-current motor, and a handle with a battery receptacle, designed for cordless operation, which enhances debris handling and runtime by directing fluid flow away from critical components, and includes a modular housing design for compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional radial or axial flow impeller is used, then the pump can handle clean water efficiently, but it cannot effectively handle dirty water with particulates without clogging and loss of efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from traditional radial or axial flow impeller configurations to a mixed-flow impeller design. This structural parameter change creates flow paths that are less susceptible to particulate clogging while maintaining efficient fluid transfer, enabling the pump to handle dirty water without sacrificing flow rate efficiency
2Productivity
If the pump runs continuously at high power, then high flow rates are achieved, but the runtime is limited due to battery depletion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating variable speed control that allows the pump to operate at different power levels based on application requirements. The motor can dynamically adjust between high-power modes for maximum flow rate and lower-power modes for extended runtime, optimizing the balance between productivity and battery duration
3Power
If the pump is designed for high power output, then strong pumping capability is achieved, but the size and weight increase reducing portability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing traditional brushed motor technology with a brushless direct-current motor. This substitution provides higher power output for the same weight, or equivalent power with reduced weight, while also improving reliability and efficiency
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 design allows for efficient fluid transfer with debris, increased runtime, and compact storage, while maintaining high flow rates and pressure, making it suitable for dirty water applications.
Implementation Method 1
a brushless direct-current motor operable at a first non-zero speed and at a second non-zero speed that is different than the first non-zero speed
Implementation Method 2
the mixed-flow impeller having an inlet diameter and an outlet diameter that is greater than the inlet diameter, the mixed-flow impeller configured to output fluid at an acute angle relative to the axis
Data Source
AI summary
A pump assembly includes a housing having a first end, a second end, and an axis extending through, the housing accommodating fluid flow therethrough. A pump assembly includes a pump coupled to the first end of the housing, the pump including an inlet in fluid communication with the housing, a motor configured to drive an output shaft, and a mixed-flow impeller coupled to the output shaft and disposed adjacent to the inlet, the mixed-flow impeller having an inlet diameter and an outlet diameter that is greater than the inlet diameter, the mixed-flow impeller configured to output fluid at an acute angle relative to the axis. A pump assembly includes a handle coupled to the second end of the housing and including an outlet in fluid communication with the housing, the handle also including a battery receptacle electrically coupled to the motor and configured to receive a battery pack.