Vane Cell Machine Symmetric Ring Mounting

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing vane cell machines face complications in mounting due to the asymmetry of the ring, which causes unwanted pressure forces and increases the complexity of assembly, and requires additional components for sealing and axial bearing functions.

Innovation Solution

A symmetric ring with a centric bore and an auxiliary element, such as a sickle or crescent moon-shaped component, is used to simplify mounting and reduce pressure forces, where the auxiliary element serves as both an axial bearing and a leakage prevention mechanism, and the ring is designed to work in conjunction with separate sealing rings for enhanced sealing and pressure equilibrium.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If an asymmetric ring with an eccentric hole is used to accommodate the rotor, then the rotor can be positioned eccentrically to create work chambers, but the mounting of the machine becomes complicated and unwanted pressure forces act on the ring

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting simplicityVSAvoidring asymmetry
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The ring is divided into two separate elements: a symmetric ring for mounting and an auxiliary element (sickle-shaped or crescent moon-shaped) that provides the eccentric functionality. This segmentation allows the ring to be mounted symmetrically while still achieving the required rotor positioning, eliminating mounting complexity and unwanted pressure forces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The auxiliary element acts as an intermediary between the symmetric ring and the rotor. It provides the necessary eccentric positioning and sealing functions without requiring the ring itself to be asymmetric, thereby simplifying mounting while maintaining the required functional performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If an asymmetric ring is used, then the rotor can be accommodated, but additional components are required for sealing and axial bearing functions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of componentsVSAvoidsealing function
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The auxiliary element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as an axial bearing for the rotor, provides sealing against leakage, and maintains the eccentric positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of components needed while ensuring reliable sealing and bearing functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If the rotor contacts the side wall directly, then the structure is simpler, but wear increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidwear resistance
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The auxiliary element serves as an intermediary between the rotor and the side wall. It provides a dedicated bearing surface that reduces direct contact and wear between the rotor and side wall, while maintaining the necessary structural simplicity. The auxiliary element can be replaced when worn, extending the service life of the side wall.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design simplifies the assembly and operation of the vane cell machine by reducing wear and minimizing leakage, allowing for efficient pressurization and fluid handling while maintaining a simple construction and easy replacement of wear parts.

Implementation Method 1

a pressure in the ring channel corresponds to the high pressure of the work chambers. This high pressure acts on the ring in a direction pressing the ring against the rotor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPressure: Pressure Increase

Implementation Method 2

The first sealing ring is made of an elastomeric material, like an O-ring. The first sealing ring generates a sort of pretension so that starting of the vane cell machine or pressurization of the working fluid

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3109473B1Vane cell machine
Publication Date: 2021.03.10 DANFOSS AS
  • EP3109473B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2

AI summary

A vane cell machine (1) is described comprising a stator (2) and a rotor (3), said rotor (3) having radially displaceable vanes (4) bearing on an inside (5) of the stator (2) and bordering, together with the rotor (3), the stator (2), and a side wall (7) at each axial end of the rotor (3), work chambers (6) the volume of which changes during a rotation of said rotor, at least one side wall (7) bearing an insert in form of a ring (9). Such a machine should be of simple construction. To this end, said ring (9) comprises a centric bore (10).