Compact Pumping Device with Offset Siphon
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pumping devices require longer construction lengths due to the alignment of the pump, siphon, and outlet tube, which limits space efficiency and increases the overall size of the device.
Innovation Solution
The pumping device design allows for a non-aligned configuration of the pump, siphon, and outlet tube, with the siphon extending at least partly on the opposite side of the front side, enabling efficient use of space and minimizing length by positioning the siphon above the inlet tube and outlet tubes on either side of the pump, which also avoids reverse flow and additional bends.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pump, siphon, and outlet tube are aligned in sequence as seen from above, then the flow direction is straightforward, but the construction length increases and space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear alignment (pump-siphon-outlet tube in sequence) to a two-dimensional spatial arrangement where the siphon is positioned above the inlet tube and the outlet tube extends beyond the pump's front side. This dimensional change allows the components to be arranged in a compact configuration that reduces construction length while maintaining proper flow direction through the liquid path.
2Reliability
If the siphon is positioned between the pump and outlet tube in sequence, then the siphon function is clearly defined, but the device occupies more space and has reduced space efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the siphon above the inlet tube, creating a nested-like arrangement where the siphon occupies vertical space above the inlet tube rather than horizontal space in sequence. This allows the siphon to perform its anti-siphonage function while the outlet tube extends beyond the pump's front side, effectively utilizing the space around the pump body and reducing the overall footprint of the pumping device.
3Area of stationary object
If additional bends are added to the piping to achieve non-aligned configuration, then space efficiency improves, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet tube serves multiple functions: it guides liquid from the outlet, extends beyond the pump's front side to achieve compact arrangement, and eliminates the need for additional bends. The siphon positioned above the inlet tube also performs its anti-siphonage function while utilizing vertical space. This multi-functional design achieves space efficiency without significantly increasing piping complexity or manufacturing difficulty.
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 configuration results in a more compact pumping device with efficient space utilization and flow dynamics, reducing construction length and eliminating the need for additional bends, while maintaining effective liquid transfer to a higher level.
Implementation Method 1
Applying a siphon avoids that liquid flows back in reverse direction from a high level via the outlet tube to a low level via the inlet tube when the liquid level increases at the side of the high level.
Data Source
AI summary
A pumping device for pumping a liquid to a higher level comprises a pump having an inlet and an outlet, an inlet tube being located upstream of the inlet for guiding the fluid to the inlet, a siphon being located downstream of the outlet and an outlet tube being located downstream of the siphon for guiding the liquid from the outlet to the outlet tube via the siphon. The outlet tube extends at least beyond a front side of the pump as seen from the pump. With respect to the outlet tube the siphon extends at least partly at the opposite side of the front side.