Centrifugal Pump Assembly Illuminated Time Display
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump assemblies for hot water circulation face challenges with mechanical time switches that are prone to errors and energy consumption, and electronic time switches that are complex to set and prone to failure in humid environments.
Innovation Solution
A pump assembly with a centrifugal pump and electronic time control using illumination devices for time display, allowing for simple operation and readability, with separate illumination devices for time of day and switching time, enabling low-energy operation and compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical time switches with clockwork and mechanical switches are used, then the time control is self-explanatory and easy to set by amateurs, but the manufacture requires more effort and the mechanical components are prone to error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical clockwork and mechanical switch system with an electronic time control system featuring a digital clock and electronic switching mechanism. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical manufacturing while maintaining user-friendly operation through a clear digital display and simple button interface for setting times.
2Reliability
If mechanical time switches are used, then the time control is robust and simple to operate, but electrical clockwork requires energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by designing the pump to operate in intermittent cycles rather than continuously. The electronic time control switches the pump on and off at predetermined intervals, allowing the pump motor to remain stationary during off-periods and consume no energy, while maintaining reliable water circulation during active periods.
3Loss of information
If electronic time switches with digital display are used, then the time display is clear and programmable, but the setting and programming is complex and requires careful study of instructions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the time-setting function into distinct, clearly labeled buttons for different parameters (switch-on time, switch-off time, pause duration). Each button corresponds to a specific time parameter, allowing users to set each parameter independently without complex programming sequences. The digital display clearly shows current settings and guides users through the setting process step by step.
4Measurement precision
If electronic time switches with digital display are used, then the time can be programmed precisely, but the display is costly and prone to breakdown in humid environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the display and control electronics into a separate, sealed control unit that is physically isolated from the humid pump environment. This control unit houses the digital display and programming interface in a protected enclosure, shielding these sensitive electronic components from moisture and humidity while maintaining precise time programming capabilities.
5Device complexity
If mechanical riders are used for time display, then the time control is simple and robust, but the construction is bulky and mechanical components require sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rider system with an electronic time control system that uses a compact digital display and electronic switching components. This substitution dramatically reduces the housing volume required, as electronic circuits and displays occupy far less space than mechanical clockwork mechanisms, riders, and their associated sealing requirements.
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 robust, intuitive, and energy-efficient time control and display, ensuring the pump assembly remains functional even with illumination device failures, and allows for easy operation in dark environments with reduced mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a centrifugal pump (1) with a suction connection (3) and a discharge connection (4)
Data Source
AI summary
A pump assembly includes a centrifugal pump driven by an electric motor and is provided with a time display which is formed by an annular row of light diodes, wherein a time is assigned to each light diode.