Servo Driven Pump Linear Actuator Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrically operated double diaphragm pumps rely on inefficient compressed air systems, which convert only 10-15% of energy into usable form, and suffer from noise and design flaws such as stalling and slipping bearings.
Innovation Solution
A servo motor driven double diaphragm pump with a linear actuator converts rotary motion into linear motion to drive a thrust tube, eliminating the need for compressed air and incorporating a precision lead screw for improved efficiency and reduced noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If compressed air is used to pneumatically operate the pump, then the pump can be operated, but energy efficiency is poor (only 10-15% conversion) and noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic system with an electric motor directly driving the pump mechanism. The motor converts electrical energy to mechanical energy, eliminating the inefficient compressed air conversion process and reducing noise by removing the pneumatic system entirely.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates the pneumatic system (compressed air) from the pump operation. Instead of using pneumatic pressure to drive the diaphragms, the invention uses direct electric motor drive, thereby removing the source of noise and energy inefficiency associated with pneumatic conversion.
2Reliability
If a motor shaft drives an eccentric cam to move the piston, then the pump can be operated, but the design is complex and prone to stalling and slipping bearings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the eccentric cam mechanism from the drive system. Instead of using a complex cam profile to convert rotary motion to reciprocating motion, the invention uses a direct linear actuator or simplified linkage that eliminates the cam, reducing mechanical complexity and potential failure points.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using a rotary motor shaft driving an eccentric cam (indirect drive), the patent inverts the approach by using a linear actuator that directly provides the reciprocating motion needed for the pump. This inversion simplifies the mechanism by eliminating the cam and reducing the number of moving parts.
3Power
If compressed air is used to drive the thrust tube, then the pump operates, but energy conversion is inefficient (10-15%)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the pneumatic power transmission system with direct electric motor drive. This substitution eliminates the intermediate compression and expansion cycles of air, thereby eliminating the 10-15% energy loss associated with pneumatic conversion and improving overall power efficiency.
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 achieves significant energy savings, reduced noise, and enhanced operational reliability, allowing for precise control and integration with existing systems, while overcoming design flaws of pneumatic pumps.
Implementation Method 1
a linear actuator which converts rotary drive from a motor into linear motion
Implementation Method 2
The linear actuator 22 may have threads 46 which selectively drive piston 48 linearly
Data Source
AI summary
A double diaphragm pump having opposing diaphragms acted upon by a thrust rod are driven by a linear actuator preferably connected to a motor, such as a servo motor. The linear actuator is restricted to linear only motion and may have a piston oppositely oriented relative to a direction of a shaft extending from the motor.