Multi-port metering pump manifold with programmable valve control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current metering pump systems lack the capability to precisely control and distribute fluid to multiple output ports independently, limiting their application in ultra-high purity and multi-fluid delivery scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A multi-port metering pump assembly comprising a metering pump, a manifold with intermediate and outer passages, and programmable valves controlled by an electronic controller, allowing selective and independent fluid distribution to each port.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-port metering pump is used, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability and versatility for multi-fluid delivery are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is segmented into multiple independent valve-controlled pathways, allowing each fluid to be delivered through separate channels. The manifold is divided into multiple outlets, each with its own valve, enabling independent control of multiple fluids simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The metering pump assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by delivering different fluids through different outlets simultaneously. The single pump unit serves multiple purposes by controlling flow to various ports via electronically controlled valves, making it a universal solution for multi-fluid applications.
2Measurement precision
If manual valve control is used, then the device complexity is low, but the measurement precision and control accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical valve control is replaced with electronically controlled valves that can be precisely actuated through electronic signals. This substitution enables more accurate and repeatable fluid volume control through programmable actuation of the valves, improving measurement precision while adding electronic control complexity.
3Productivity
If fluid is distributed to multiple ports simultaneously, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability of precise volume delivery to each port becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid distribution system is segmented into separate valve-controlled pathways for each port, allowing independent control of flow to each outlet. This segmentation ensures that simultaneous delivery to multiple ports does not compromise the precision of individual port volume delivery, as each pathway can be independently regulated.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic controller monitors and regulates valve actuation to maintain precise volume delivery parameters. Feedback mechanisms enable the system to adjust valve timing and duration to ensure accurate fluid volumes are delivered to each port simultaneously without compromising reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-port metering pump assembly includes a manifold coupled to a metering pump. The manifold defines a central passage in fluid communication with a plurality of intermediate passages defined in the manifold. The manifold includes a plurality of outer passages. Each intermediate passage provides fluid communication between the central passage and a corresponding outer passage. A plurality of valves is coupled to the manifold. Each valve of the plurality of valves is located between an intermediate passage and a corresponding outer passage, and is configured to enable or prevent passage of fluid between a corresponding intermediate passage of the plurality of intermediate passages and a corresponding outer passage. The multi-port metering pump assembly also includes an electronic controller coupled to the plurality of valves, the electronic controller having an associated electronic interface and being programmable to selectively and independently open and close the valves of the plurality of valves.