Pump Connector with Integrated Pressure Compensator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water pump assemblies in engine compartments of vehicles face challenges in managing pressure fluctuations and steam pressure from cleaners, which existing semipermeable diaphragms do not adequately address, leading to potential water ingress and increased complexity in manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A simplified pump assembly design incorporating a pressure compensator integrated into a plug connector with a water-impermeable membrane and protective geometry, which is connected via ultrasonic or laser beam welding, and features a vent channel to manage pressure equalization and protect against steam pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If semipermeable diaphragms are used to compensate pressure fluctuations, then pressure compensation is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pressure compensator with the plug connector into a single integrated component. The pressure compensator is formed as part of the connector housing, eliminating the need for separate pressure compensation components and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining pressure compensation functionality through the integrated design
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for pressure compensation, then pressure management is effective, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure compensator is integrated into the plug connector housing as a single molded part. The vent channel is formed directly in the connector housing, and the membrane is installed within the integrated structure, reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps while maintaining effective pressure management functionality
3Ease of manufacture
If the connector is designed without integrated pressure compensation, then manufacturing is simpler, but pressure fluctuations and steam pressure cannot be effectively managed
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure compensator is formed as an integral part of the plug connector housing. The vent channel is molded directly into the connector housing, and the membrane is installed within the integrated structure, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while providing effective protection against pressure fluctuations and steam pressure through the combined design
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 reduces leakage points, simplifies manufacturing, and allows for flexible installation while effectively managing pressure fluctuations and steam pressure, thereby enhancing the reliability and durability of the pump assembly.
Implementation Method 1
semipermeable diaphragms are known from the prior art, which allow air and also water vapor to pass through the diaphragm to the outside and inside via a vent opening, but not water in liquid form
Implementation Method 2
The water-impermeable membrane can be connected to the connector by ultrasonic welding, laser beam welding, or adhesive bonding
Implementation Method 3
The water-Impermeable membrane can be connected to the connector by ultrasonic welding, laser beam welding, or adhesive bonding
Data Source
AI summary
A pump assembly includes an electric motor with a printed circuit board with a controller, a pump driven by the electric motor, a housing surrounding the printed circuit board, and a connector which is fastened on an outside of the housing by a flange, which covers an opening of the housing, and which includes contacts directly electrically contacting the printed circuit board. The contacts pass through the opening of the housing. The connector includes a main housing in which the contacts extend and which adjoins the flange. The connector includes a pressure compensator which is in the main housing.