Vacuum Pump Control Device Optimizes Energy Usage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vacuum pump systems face high energy consumption due to the continuous operation of auxiliary pumps like ejector pumps, which also require complex and costly electronic control systems and consume additional sealing gas, increasing manufacturing costs and reducing operational safety.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum pump system with a control device that switches the auxiliary pump and sealing gas supply on and off based on predetermined control variables, such as pressure values and power consumption, to optimize energy usage by only activating them during standby mode or when specific conditions are met, thereby reducing energy demand and eliminating the need for costly sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the auxiliary pump is continuously operated to achieve lower discharge pressures, then the vacuum performance is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary pump is operated periodically rather than continuously. The control device monitors the power consumption of the main vacuum pump and activates the auxiliary pump only when the main pump enters a standby mode or operates at reduced capacity, thereby reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining vacuum performance when needed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If electronic control devices and sensors are used to manage the auxiliary pump operation, then the energy consumption is reduced, but the manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic control systems and absolute pressure sensors with a simpler control device that monitors the power consumption of the main vacuum pump. This mechanical/electrical monitoring approach eliminates the need for costly electronic sensors while achieving the same energy-saving effect through direct power measurement.
3Reliability
If sealing gas is supplied to protect shaft seals and oil chambers, then the operational reliability is improved, but the energy demand increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing gas supply is activated periodically only when the main vacuum pump is operating, rather than continuously. The control device monitors the operational state of the main pump and supplies sealing gas only during active pumping phases, thereby maintaining seal protection while reducing the energy demand associated with continuous gas supply.
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum pump system comprising a main vacuum pump that is connected to a chamber that is to be evacuated. An auxiliary pump is connected to an outlet of the main vacuum pump. Furthermore, a sealing gas supply device is connected to the main vacuum pump. The sealing gas supply device is switched on and off with the aid of a control device as a function of a predetermined control variable. Additionally, a method for controlling the vacuum pump system.