Multi-Linear Motor Pump Drive Reduces Complexity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fuel pumps require robust and agile drives with minimal downtimes, but are often complex and costly due to the need for oversized linear motors, which are expensive and high-maintenance, especially when designed for single types of pumps.
Innovation Solution
A drive system comprising multiple linear motors, designed as direct drives, which eliminates the need for gearboxes and allows for scalable power and force by varying the number of motors, enabling redundancy and reduced complexity, with each motor having a mechanical power of 40 kW to 85 kW and a feed force of up to 20 kN, and a control unit for activating and managing the motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a single large linear motor is used to provide sufficient power, then the power requirement is met, but the cost and maintenance requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single large linear motor into multiple smaller linear motors (at least two) that work together to provide the required power. This segmentation allows each motor to be smaller, cheaper, and easier to manufacture while collectively delivering the necessary power output for the pump system.
2Power
If a single large linear motor is used, then the power requirement is met, but the maintenance requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the drive system into multiple smaller linear motors, the patent reduces the complexity of each individual motor component. Although the number of motors increases, each motor is simpler in design, easier to manufacture, and requires less maintenance, thereby reducing overall system complexity in terms of component sophistication.
3Power
If oversized linear motors are designed for single types of pumps, then power requirements are met, but the cost increases due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple smaller linear motors that can be standardized across different pump types and applications. These motors serve as universal components that can be adapted to various pump configurations, eliminating the need for custom oversized motors for each specific application and enabling economies of scale through standardized production.
4Ease of operation
If mechanical transmission components like gearboxes and crankshafts are used, then the drive system is established, but the system becomes complex and prone to malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical transmission components (gearboxes, crankshafts) with linear motors that directly convert electrical energy to linear motion. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages, reducing the number of moving parts, minimizing maintenance requirements, and lowering the probability of mechanical failures while establishing an effective drive system.
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
This solution provides a cost-effective, low-maintenance, and reliable drive system that can handle varying power requirements, reduce downtime, and facilitate easy replacement of motors, while maintaining high machine availability and simplifying mechanical implementation.
Implementation Method 1
the drive system comprises at least two linear motors
Data Source
AI summary
A pump includes a cylinder having a working chamber which contains a fluid. A drive system including at least two linear motors which are connected electrically and/or mechanically in parallel moves a piston in the working chamber to bound the working chamber in the cylinder and to pressurize the fluid in the working chamber. A piston rod is connected to the piston and bundles a force applied by the drive system.