Variable Displacement Pump Calibration for Precise Dispense Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable displacement pumps require manual adjustment for output volume per revolution, and electronic adjustment methods face challenges with complex angular movement and inaccurate flow volumes due to component variations and tolerances.
Innovation Solution
A calibration system for electronically adjustable dispensing pumps using a linear actuator, proximity sensor, and adjustable flag to determine and adjust the home position, ensuring precise and repeatable dispense volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual adjustment methods (adjusting screw or fixed links) are used to change output volume per revolution, then the pump can be set to a specific displacement, but the pump cannot be electronically adjusted and requires manual intervention for each volume change
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment (hand turning adjusting screw or swapping fixed links) with an automated linear actuator system. The linear actuator mechanically adjusts the angle between base portions electronically, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining precise control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from static fixed links to a dynamic system where the angle between base portions can be continuously adjusted via linear actuator. This enables the pump to adapt its displacement dynamically through electronic control rather than requiring manual reconfiguration.
2Extent of automation
If rigid members are used to translate linear motion to angular motion for electronic adjustment, then automated adjustment is achieved, but the relationship between linear motion and angular movement becomes complex and difficult to define
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flag with calibration element as an intermediary between the linear actuator and the control system. This flag provides a visual or detectable reference that simplifies the control relationship by establishing a clear home position, making the automated adjustment system easier to define and control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the calibration element on the flag to establish a reference parameter (home position) that defines the relationship between linear actuator position and angular base angle. By changing the reference parameter rather than the entire control relationship, the system becomes simpler to define and control.
3Ease of manufacture
If dimensional variations and tolerances in pump components are present, then manufacturing is feasible, but the home position of the linear actuator cannot be reliably determined and flow volumes become inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the system to self-calibrate by using the adjustable flag with calibration element as a reference. The system can determine its own home position through the flag's detectable position, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment or complex compensation calculations for component variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a calibration element on the flag that establishes the home position before normal operation begins. This preliminary calibration action accounts for dimensional variations in components, ensuring accurate flow volumes from the start of operation without requiring real-time compensation.
4Manufacturing precision
If no calibration mechanism is provided, then the pump structure remains simple, but precise and repeatable dispense volumes cannot be ensured with electronic adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the calibration element on the flag to establish a reference parameter (home position) that defines the relationship between linear actuator position and pump displacement. By adjusting this reference parameter, precise and repeatable dispense volumes are achieved without requiring complex calibration procedures or multiple adjustment mechanisms.
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
Enables precise and repeatable electronic adjustment of dispense volumes without manual intervention, compensating for component variations and tolerances, and allowing dynamic control of fluid flow.
Implementation Method 1
A proximity sensor is secured to the upper base portion. A flag is secured to the drive rod coupler, wherein the flag moves directly with the drive rod. The flag includes a body and a calibration element projecting therefrom. The calibration element is adapted to activate the proximity sensor when the linear drive is in a home position.
Data Source
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AI summary
A dispensing pump has a calibration system. A base includes an upper base portion and a lower base portion for mounting a pump. A hinge pivotally connects the upper base portion and the lower base portion. A linear actuator includes a drive rod having a coupler which joins a drive rod to a connecting member. An attachment plate attaches a motor to the upper base portion. A proximity sensor is secured to the base upper portion. A flag moves directly with the drive rod. The flag includes a body and a calibration element projecting therefrom. The calibration element is positionally adjustable relative to the flag body. The calibration element activates the proximity sensor when the linear drive is in a home position. An actuation of the linear actuator drives the connecting member causing the lower base portion and upper base portion to pivot with respect to each other, thereby changing an angle between the lower base portion and the upper base portion.