Scroll Pump Axial Gap Control via Spring-Loaded Thrust Bearing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-contacting scroll pumps face challenges in maintaining a consistent gap between the tips of the fixed and orbiting scrolls, which is crucial for efficient fluid pumping without contact.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a thrust bearing assembly with a coupling structure that includes a spring to maintain the axial position of the orbiting scroll, ensuring a consistent gap between the scroll tips.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a thrust bearing assembly is used to maintain the gap between scroll tips, then the gap consistency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust bearing assembly is divided into multiple ball bearings arranged in a circular pattern around the orbiting scroll. Each ball bearing independently supports the axial position, distributing the load and maintaining the gap consistency through multiple contact points rather than a single complex bearing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling structure acts as an intermediary element between the housing and the second plate of the thrust bearing assembly. It transmits the axial force from the spring to the ball bearings, enabling precise control of the gap between scroll tips without requiring direct contact or complex positioning mechanisms.
2Manufacturing precision
If the axial position of the orbiting scroll is precisely controlled, then the gap between scroll tips is maintained, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded coupling structure provides self-adjusting axial position control for the orbiting scroll. The spring automatically maintains the correct gap between scroll tips by pushing the coupling structure against the second plate, eliminating the need for manual adjustment or complex control systems during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial position of the orbiting scroll is controlled by changing the pre-load force parameter of the spring. By adjusting the spring force, the gap between scroll tips can be precisely maintained without requiring complex positioning mechanisms, as the spring force directly compensates for variations in scroll assembly dimensions.
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 solution effectively maintains a consistent gap between the scroll tips, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of the non-contacting scroll pump in fluid pumping applications.
Implementation Method 1
a ball bearing located between the first plate and the second plate, the ball bearing being configured to roll against the first and second plates during orbiting of the orbiting scroll
Implementation Method 2
the coupling structure comprises a spring arranged to push the coupling structure against the second plate
Data Source
AI summary
A non-contacting scroll pump, the non-contacting scroll pump comprising a housing, an orbiting scroll located within the housing, and a thrust bearing assembly located within the housing for axially supporting the orbiting scroll. The thrust bearing assembly comprises a first plate fixed to the orbiting scroll, a second plate spaced apart from the first plate, a ball bearing located between the first plate and the second plate, the ball bearing being configured to roll against the first and second plates during orbiting of the orbiting scroll, and a coupling structure extending axially between the housing and the second plate to couple the housing to the second plate, wherein the coupling structure is engaged with the second plate, and wherein the coupling structure comprises a spring arranged to push the coupling structure against the second plate.