Series-Parallel Fluid Switching Structure for Pump Head-Flow Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid pumps, such as multi-stage centrifugal pumps, are limited in their ability to adapt to high-flow-rate working conditions and cannot efficiently switch between series and parallel modes for varying operational needs.
Innovation Solution
A series-parallel fluid switching structure with a switching mechanism that controls the opening and closing of water outlets and inlets between cavities, allowing for switching between parallel and series modes to achieve high-flow-rate or high-head operations, utilizing a valve member with rotatable passages for reliable switching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a multi-stage centrifugal pump is used to increase head, then the head is improved, but the flow rate cannot be increased and adaptability to different working conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system dynamically switches between series and parallel configurations of pump cavities based on working conditions. The switching mechanism allows the pump to adapt its internal flow paths, transforming from a static single-mode pump to a dynamic multi-mode system that can optimize performance for different head and flow rate requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump cavities are designed to serve multiple functions - they can operate independently in parallel mode for high flow rate applications, or be connected in series mode for high head applications. This multi-functionality allows a single pump system to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized pumps.
2Stress or pressure
If series connection is used to increase head, then the head is improved, but the flow rate capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically reconfigures the connection mode between pump cavities. When high head is required, the switching mechanism activates series connection; when high flow rate is needed, it switches to parallel connection. This dynamic adaptability resolves the trade-off between head and flow rate capability.
3Productivity
If parallel connection is used to increase flow rate, then the flow rate is improved, but the head capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The pump cavities are designed with universal functionality to operate in both parallel and series configurations. In parallel mode, they deliver high flow rate for applications like pool cleaning; in series mode, they provide high head for applications requiring greater pumping pressure. The switching mechanism enables this versatility.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a switching mechanism is added to enable series-parallel switching, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism is designed to be actuated by the pump system itself, utilizing the pump's own operational parameters (such as pressure differential or flow direction) to trigger the mode switching. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external complex control systems, sensors, or actuators, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A series-parallel fluid switching structure, a fluid pump, and a pool cleaner are provided. The series-parallel fluid switching structure includes a first cavity, a second cavity, and a switching mechanism, where the first cavity is provided with a first water inlet, and the second cavity is provided with a second water inlet; a first passage is disposed between the first cavity and the second cavity; the first passage includes an inlet communicating with the first cavity and an outlet communicating with the second cavity; the first passage is provided with a first water outlet communicating with an external environment; the second cavity is provided with a second water outlet; the switching mechanism is configured to control opening/closing of the first water outlet, opening/closing of the outlet of the first passage, and opening/closing of the second water inlet.