Ship Propulsion Pump Switching to Reduce Hydraulic Energy Waste
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump devices for ship propulsion machines waste energy by continuously circulating hydraulic fluid from one pump portion that does not contribute to the swing of the outboard motor when adjusting the hull angle.
Innovation Solution
A switching mechanism is introduced to switch between an on mode and an off mode for the second pump portion, allowing it to operate only when needed, thereby optimizing energy usage by preventing unnecessary fluid circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If both pump portions rotate together and pump liquid to the cylinder, then the outboard motor can be swung to a predetermined position, but energy is wasted by circulating hydraulic fluid from the second pump portion that does not contribute to the swing when adjusting hull angle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a switching mechanism that dynamically controls the operation of the second pump portion based on the actual need for swing function. The switching member can move between positions to connect or disconnect the second pump portion from the hydraulic circuit, allowing the system to adapt its configuration according to operational requirements and eliminate energy waste when the second pump portion is not needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the second pump portion from continuous operation by introducing a switching mechanism that can isolate it from the hydraulic circuit. When the second pump portion is not required for swing operation, the switching member redirects the hydraulic fluid flow away from the second pump portion, effectively taking it out of the active circulation path and preventing energy waste.
2Reliability
If the second pump portion continuously circulates hydraulic fluid, then the system maintains readiness for swing operation, but energy is wasted when the second pump portion does not contribute to the swing
Solution Approach 1:
The switching mechanism dynamically adjusts the system configuration by connecting or disconnecting the second pump portion based on operational needs. This allows the system to maintain reliability for swing operation when needed while reducing energy consumption when the second pump portion is not required, balancing readiness and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter of the second pump portion from continuous circulation to on-demand operation. By controlling the switching member's position, the system can alter the flow path and operational state of the second pump portion, enabling it to operate only when necessary and thereby optimizing the balance between reliability and energy consumption.
3Loss of energy
If a switching mechanism is introduced to control the second pump portion, then energy efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switching member acts as an intermediary element that controls the connection between the second pump portion and the hydraulic circuit. This relatively simple intermediary component enables energy-efficient operation by directing fluid flow based on operational needs, while adding minimal complexity to the overall system compared to the benefits achieved.
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 mechanism enhances energy efficiency by ensuring that the second pump portion only operates when required, reducing energy waste and improving overall performance.
Implementation Method 1
a second driven gear that is provided on the second shaft and that meshes with the first drive gear
Implementation Method 2
a first pump portion and a second pump portion supported on the first shaft and the second shaft and configured to send a hydraulic fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A first or second shaft of a pump device is provided with a first axial hole opening from one end to an inner periphery of a second or first pump portion along an axial direction and a radial hole penetrating the first or second shaft from the first axial hole in a radial direction. The first pump portion includes a first drive gear and a second driven gear. The second pump portion includes a first driven gear and a second drive gear. A switching mechanism of the pump device includes a switching operation portion provided in the first axial hole so as to be movable along the axial direction, and a switching member body configured to appear and disappear from the radial hole as the switching operation portion is displaced.