Pump Operating Assembly with Integrated Electric Drive and Electromagnetic Clutch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing recirculating pump systems for vehicle cooling fluids face challenges in varying the speed of the pump impeller to match engine requirements, while also needing to fit within the limited axial space between the pump and the fan, and being complex and costly to produce and assemble.
Innovation Solution
An operating assembly for pumps that includes a shaft with an electromagnetic clutch and an electric drive independent of the combustion engine, supported by a compact design with double bearings and an electric motor integrated within a bell member, allowing for adjustable speed and high torque output without increasing axial dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a friction clutch and electric motor are used to control pump speed, then the pump speed can be varied according to cooling requirements, but the axial dimensions become too large to fit in the engine compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electromagnetic clutch and electric motor into a single integrated operating assembly that replaces the separate friction clutch and electric motor configuration. This merging of components reduces the overall axial dimensions while maintaining the ability to control pump speed through electromagnetic engagement and disengagement of the clutch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating assembly uses a nested configuration where the electromagnetic clutch is integrated within the pump housing structure, and the electric motor is positioned within the space created by the clutch mechanism. This nesting arrangement allows compact packaging of components that would traditionally require more axial space when arranged separately.
2Adaptability or versatility
If known pump operating assemblies are used, then pump speed can be controlled, but the devices are complex to produce and assemble
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the electromagnetic clutch and electric motor into a single integrated operating assembly, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be produced and assembled. The integrated design simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly steps while maintaining the functional capabilities of speed control.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating assembly is designed as a universal unit that can be applied to various pump configurations without requiring special adaptation. The standardized integrated design simplifies production and assembly by eliminating the need for custom manufacturing and assembly procedures for different applications.
3Length of moving object
If the pump is positioned closer to the fan, then the axial space is utilized more efficiently, but damaging interference with the fan occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the spatial conflict by transitioning from a two-dimensional axial arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration. The operating assembly is positioned in the axial direction while utilizing radial and vertical spaces to accommodate the electromagnetic clutch and electric motor, thereby maintaining adequate clearance from the fan while efficiently utilizing the available space.
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
The solution enables efficient and adaptable recirculation of cooling fluids, compatible with engines of varying speeds, while maintaining compact dimensions and reducing production and assembly complexities, thus enhancing performance and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an operating assembly for pumps for recirculating cooling fluids of engines for vehicles and the like, characterised in that it comprises a shaft (2) with an electromagnetic clutch (20) and an electric drive (30)
Data Source
AI summary
Operating assembly for a pump for recirculating a cooling fluid of a vehicle, comprising: an axially extending driven shaft (2) with a front end (2a) designed to carry the impeller (1) of a pump, at least one electromagnetic friction clutch (2), arranged between an element (21,21a) for taking up the rotational movement and the driven shaft (2), an electric drive for driving the driven shaft (2) independently of the movement take-up element, a support body (11;13) extending axially between a front part which carries the front end of the shaft (2) and a rear end which rotationally supports the movement take-up element, wherein the electric drive is 10 axially arranged between the front end of the shaft and said movement take-up element.