Centrifugal Pump Shutter Actuation via Inclined Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing centrifugal pumps with shutter actuation systems for reciprocating internal combustion engines are complex, costly, prone to jamming, and require strict dimensional tolerances, with issues related to fluid leakage and high manufacturing costs, especially when using pistons or screw/spiral systems.
Innovation Solution
A centrifugal pump with a roto-translating system of inclined surfaces that simplifies construction, reduces components and sealing elements, and allows for smooth, variable shutter movement without jamming, using a rotor and shutter with triangular protrusions and cavities that cooperate via inclined surfaces for axial translation and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a shutter actuation system using pistons or screw/spiral surfaces is used, then the pump can regulate coolant flow, but the construction becomes complex and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the complex actuation mechanism from the pump body by using a separate, independently rotating shutter assembly that can be mounted on existing pump housings. This modular approach eliminates the need for integrated piston-cylinder or screw-mechanism assemblies, significantly simplifying the overall construction while maintaining flow regulation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter assembly is designed as a universal component that can be applied to various pump models and configurations. The standardized design with adjustable shutter blades allows a single actuation mechanism to regulate flow across different operating conditions and pump types, reducing the need for model-specific complex mechanisms
2Adaptability or versatility
If pistons with sealing gaskets are used to actuate the shutter, then flow regulation is achieved, but fluid leakage issues and strict dimensional tolerances are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical piston-sealing system with a direct rotational actuation mechanism. Instead of using pressurized pistons requiring sealing gaskets, the system uses a simplified rotational linkage or cam mechanism that actuates the shutter blades through pure rotation, eliminating the sealing interface entirely and thus preventing fluid leakage issues
Solution Approach 2:
The design employs simple, non-critical sealing components where applicable, such as basic O-rings or gaskets in non-pressure-critical locations, rather than complex multi-gasket piston assemblies. This approach accepts that minor sealing components may need periodic replacement but eliminates the need for high-precision, high-reliability sealing systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If a cup-shaped shutter sliding axially is used, then flow blocking is achieved, but the pump requires greater number of components and stricter dimensional tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter assembly is segmented into multiple independent blades or vanes rather than a single solid cup-shaped component. This segmentation allows each blade to be manufactured separately using simpler processes and then assembled into the complete shutter assembly, reducing the complexity of individual components and easing manufacturing requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter system transitions from a static or purely axial-sliding design to a dynamic rotational system where blades can pivot and adjust their position. This dynamic capability allows the shutter to achieve flow blocking through rotational movement rather than precise axial positioning, significantly reducing the need for strict dimensional tolerances in the actuation mechanism
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 provides a reliable, economical, and compact pump design with reduced manufacturing costs, smooth operation, and adjustable flow regulation, ensuring high resistance and reliability over time without the need for complex sealing or precise tolerances.
Implementation Method 1
a roto-translating system of inclined surfaces that simplifies construction, reduces components and sealing elements, and allows for smooth, variable shutter movement without jamming
Implementation Method 2
a radial, centrifugal turbo pump... suitable to make a flow of coolant liquid circulate inside a coolant system
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3
AI summary
An adjustable centrifugal pump (10) comprising a flanged body (11) connectable to a volute with an appendage (14) suitable to house an actuator device, a crankshaft, an impeller (32), a cup-shaped shutter (50) suitable to slide axially and position itself on the outer perimeter of the impeller (32); with a rotor (40), rotatably and concentrically housed externally to said shutter (50), having inclined surfaces (42) acting in conjunction with further inclined surfaces (52) of the shutter (50), so that a rotation of said rotor (40), corresponds to a translation of said shutter (50).