Variable Speed Pool Pump with ECM and Diverter Valve

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional swimming pool filtration systems require separate booster pumps, which are not self-priming, energy-inefficient, and lack adjustability, leading to increased electricity consumption and potential dry run issues.

Innovation Solution

A variable speed swimming pool filter and booster pump combination equipped with an electronically commutated motor, a relay or solid state power switching device, and a microprocessor control system that adjusts speed and actuates an electrically or manually actuated diverter valve to divert water between filtration and cleaning modes, eliminating the need for a separate booster pump.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stress or pressure

If a separate booster pump is used to provide high pressure head for pressure cleaners, then the required pressure head is achieved, but the system complexity increases and energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure headVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Stress or pressureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the filtration pump and booster pump functions into a single integrated pump unit. The pump can operate in different modes (filtration mode and cleaning mode) by adjusting its speed, eliminating the need for a separate booster pump while maintaining the required high pressure head for pressure cleaners.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single pump is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a filtration pump at lower speeds and as a booster pump for pressure cleaners at higher speeds. This multi-functionality is achieved through variable speed control and a diverter valve that redirects water flow based on the operational mode.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If a single phase induction motor is used in the booster pump, then the pump can operate, but energy efficiency is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational capabilityVSAvoidenergy efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional single phase induction motor with an electronically commutated motor (ECM). The ECM provides superior energy efficiency while maintaining operational capability, and its speed can be precisely controlled by the microprocessor control system to optimize performance for different operational modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If a fixed speed booster pump is used, then the pump structure is simple, but adaptability is reduced and excess water must be discharged through a bypass valve

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepump structureVSAvoidspeed adjustability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements variable speed control for the pump motor, allowing it to dynamically adjust its operating speed based on the required function. The microprocessor control system monitors system conditions and adjusts the motor speed accordingly, enabling the pump to operate efficiently in both filtration and cleaning modes without requiring a bypass valve.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Stress or pressure

If a separate filtration pump and booster pump system is used, then high pressure head is achieved, but electricity consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepressure headVSAvoidelectricity consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Stress or pressureVSUse of energy by stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By merging the filtration and booster functions into a single variable speed pump, the system eliminates the need for two separate motors operating simultaneously. The single ECM can efficiently provide both functions at different speeds, significantly reducing overall electricity consumption compared to the traditional two-pump system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 more energy-efficient and adjustable system that reduces electricity consumption by eliminating the need for a separate booster pump and prevents dry run issues, allowing for efficient operation of both filtration and cleaning modes.

Implementation Method 1

a variable speed pump capable of producing the necessary range of variable pressure suitable for operating both the swimming pool filter and the swimming pool pressure cleaner that includes an electronically commutated motor

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a high pressure head impeller with a minimum diameter of five inches

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCentrifugal force: Centrifugal Force

Data Source

PatentUS10246892B1Filter booster pump combination

Publication Date: 2019.04.02 WATERWAY PLASTICS

AI summary

A swimming pool filtration systems and particularly toward a variable speed pump equipped with an electronically commutated motor, capable of producing variable water pressure heads suitable for operating swimming pool pressure cleaners as well as swimming pool filters. An electronically controlled electric actuating diverter valve is used to divert water flow to the filter or the pressure cleaner.