Peristaltic Pump with Segmented Valve Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing peristaltic pumps for controlling fluid flow in elastic tubular conduits lack efficient mechanisms to generate consistent fluid flow, as they rely on mechanical cams or electromagnets, which can be complex and prone to variability in fluid volume delivery.
Innovation Solution
A peristaltic pump design utilizing a plurality of electrically operated valves along the conduit, with valve heads that alternate between obstructed and unobstructed positions according to a predetermined temporo-spatial pattern, controlled by a driver unit to manage fluid flow effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a plurality of electrically operated valves are used to control fluid flow in the conduit, then the ability to generate fluid flow is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is divided into multiple independent valve units (first valve, second valve, third valve, fourth valve) arranged along the conduit. Each valve operates independently to create sequential compression zones, transforming a complex continuous pumping action into simpler discrete segmental operations. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable fluid flow generation while managing device complexity through modular valve construction.
2Reliability
If valve heads alternate between up and down positions to obstruct and open the conduit lumen, then fluid flow consistency is improved, but the control mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve heads execute periodic alternating movements between up and down positions in a predetermined temporo-spatial pattern. The first valve head alternates between up and down positions, followed by the second valve head, creating a rhythmic sequence of compression and release zones. This periodic action ensures consistent fluid volume delivery while simplifying control through repetitive cyclic valve operation rather than complex continuous adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver controls the valve heads based on a predetermined temporo-spatial pattern that coordinates the timing and positioning of each valve head. This feedback mechanism ensures that when one valve head is in the down position obstructing the lumen, another valve head is positioned to receive fluid, maintaining consistent flow. The coordinated control pattern synchronizes valve operations to achieve reliable fluid delivery.
3Reliability
If multiple valves are arranged along the conduit with coordinated activation, then fluid flow reliability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is constructed as an assembly of discrete valve units (first valve, second valve, third valve, fourth valve) that can be manufactured independently and then assembled along the conduit. Each valve unit comprises a valve head and associated actuation mechanisms, allowing for standardized mass production of individual valve modules. This segmentation simplifies manufacturing by enabling modular assembly rather than requiring complex integrated valve systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple valve units are designed with similar structural configurations, where each valve head and actuation mechanism serves the same basic function of obstructing or opening the conduit lumen. This universality allows for standardized manufacturing processes and interchangeable parts, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the presence of multiple valves. The repeated modular design enables efficient production and assembly.
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 design ensures consistent and controlled fluid flow by precisely managing valve positions, reducing variability in volume delivery and enhancing the efficiency of fluid flow generation in elastic tubular conduits.
Implementation Method 1
When a valve head is in its down position, the valve head presses on a segment of the conduit so as to obstruct the lumen of the conduit in the segment
Data Source
AI summary
A pump for generating fluid flow in an elastic tubular conduit. The pump comprises a plurality of electrically operated valves, each valve being positionable adjacent to the conduit. Each valve has a valve head configured to alternate from a first position in which the lumen of the conduit adjacent to the valve head is unobstructed and a second position in which the lumen of the conduit adjacent to the valve head is obstructed. The pump also comprises a driver configured to control the positions of the valve heads, so as to execute a predetermined temporo-spatial array of valve head positions.