Rigid Polymer Primer Pump for Marine Fuel Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semi-rigid rubber primer bulbs used in outboard mounted spark ignition marine engines are permeable, leading to the leakage and emission of hydrocarbons into the atmosphere, which is undesirable due to pollution concerns and potential regulatory violations.
Innovation Solution
A hand-operated primer pump made from rigid or semi-rigid polymer materials with a continuously molded fuel path and one-way valves to prevent hydrocarbon leakage, featuring an ergonomically designed actuator for ease of use and precise fuel delivery, and using materials that meet low permeation standards to seal hydrocarbons within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If semi-rigid rubber primer bulbs are used, then ease of operation is improved, but hydrocarbon emissions increase due to permeability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from semi-rigid rubber to rigid polymer, which fundamentally alters the permeability characteristic. This parameter change eliminates hydrocarbon emissions while maintaining the primer bulb's functional properties through the rigid polymer's inherent low permeation characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material construction with rigid polymer components and sealed fuel paths. The combination of rigid polymer housing, sealed fuel passages, and integrated valve mechanisms creates a composite structure that prevents hydrocarbon permeation while maintaining operational functionality.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If rigid polymer materials are used, then hydrocarbon emissions are reduced, but ease of operation may deteriorate due to rigidity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the rigidity parameter of the polymer material to achieve an optimal balance. By selecting rigid polymers with appropriate flexibility characteristics and designing the actuator mechanism with proper mechanical advantage, the system maintains ease of operation while preventing hydrocarbon emissions through the rigid material's low permeability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates dynamic elements such as flexible seals, movable valves, and spring-loaded mechanisms within the rigid polymer structure. These dynamic components allow the rigid primer bulb to function smoothly during operation, compensating for the inherent rigidity of the polymer material while maintaining emission prevention.
3Manufacturing precision
If rigid polymer with continuous molded fuel path is used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components into a single continuously molded fuel path structure. By integrating the fuel passages, sealing surfaces, and structural elements into one monolithic rigid polymer component, the design achieves high sealing precision while actually reducing device complexity through component consolidation rather than increasing it.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid polymer housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, creates sealed fuel passages, prevents hydrocarbon emissions, and houses the valve mechanisms. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device while maintaining manufacturing precision.
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 effectively prevents hydrocarbon emissions into the atmosphere, meeting regulatory standards by ensuring no leakage or permeation, while providing ease of use and precise fuel delivery, thus addressing the pollution issue and compliance with government regulations.
Implementation Method 1
made from materials that prevent transfer of hydrocarbons to the atmosphere
Implementation Method 2
equipped with a set of one-way valves to direct the direction of pumping when the bulb is squeezed
Implementation Method 3
a spring placed under tension between the piston assembly and a corresponding cylindrical cup shaped recess
Data Source
AI summary
A hand operated primer pump for small marine or other engines generally spark ignition engines used on stern drive boats that prevents transfer of hydrocarbons into the atmosphere. The primer generally mimics and replaces prior art rubber primer bulbs in general shape and possibly color, although it can be made in any shape or color. It generally contains a pump that delivers a precise measured amount of fuel with each stroke of the actuator. The primer can have an ergonomically designed actuator that creates the farthest distance from a fulcrum point for maximum leverage and hence, maximum ease of use. The primer is generally designed with a continuous molded fuel path to seal any source of hydrocarbon leakage as well as being made from materials that prevent transfer of hydrocarbons to the atmosphere.