Variable Output Gerotor Pump for Engine Oil Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gerotor lubricating oil pumps in automotive engines suffer from inefficiency due to the wasteful bypassing of high-pressure oil, leading to increased energy consumption and fuel usage, as they lack precise control over volumetric output to match engine requirements under varying conditions.
Innovation Solution
A variable output gerotor pump with an output control ring and shunt passages, controlled by a controller and solenoid valve system, allows for adjustable flow based on pressure signals, ensuring optimal lubrication by tailoring oil pump throughput to the engine's needs without wasteful bypassing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stress or pressure
If a pressure regulating valve is used to control pump output, then the pump can limit pressure differential, but energy is wasted by bypassing high-pressure oil
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the pump's displacement variable through a movable control ring that can adjust the pumping chamber volume. This allows the pump to dynamically match its output to actual engine lubrication needs rather than operating at fixed high pressure with bypass valves, eliminating energy waste while maintaining adequate pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of pump displacement by varying the control ring position, which alters the pumping chamber volume. This parameter change enables the pump to deliver varying flow rates at lower pressures, replacing the need for pressure regulating valves that waste energy by bypassing oil.
2Stress or pressure
If a pressure regulating valve is used to control pump output, then pressure can be limited, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable displacement mechanism allows the pump to adapt its output dynamically to engine requirements, avoiding the continuous high-pressure operation and bypass valve usage that increases fuel consumption. The control ring adjusts pumping chamber volume to match actual lubrication needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the harmful effect of fixed high-pressure pumping into a benefit by using the control ring to variable displacement, transforming the system from one that wastes energy through bypassing to one that efficiently matches output to demand, thereby reducing fuel consumption.
3Productivity
If internal valving is used to adjust fluid discharge, then output can be controlled, but pump efficiency is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a movable control ring that dynamically adjusts the pumping chamber volume, allowing efficient variable output control without the energy losses associated with internal valving systems. This mechanical displacement adjustment maintains pump efficiency while achieving output control.
4Reliability
If maximum flow is provided for worst case conditions, then adequate lubrication is ensured, but energy is wasted when lower flow is sufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The variable displacement system allows the pump to provide maximum flow when needed for reliability while reducing flow under normal operating conditions, eliminating energy waste from excessive flow. The control ring adjusts pumping chamber volume to match actual lubrication requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the displacement parameter based on operating conditions, allowing the pump to deliver appropriate flow rates rather than always operating at maximum capacity. This ensures reliable lubrication while minimizing energy waste from excessive flow.
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 system reduces fuel consumption by optimizing oil pump output to match engine demands, improving efficiency and eliminating the need for external plumbing and valves, thereby reducing energy waste and enhancing lubrication precision.
Implementation Method 1
A control drive rotates the output control ring to a desired position so as to control the output of the pump. The control drive may comprise a hydraulic drive powered by the output of the pump
Implementation Method 2
An annular, driven outer rotor is mounted within the annular output control ring and has a circular outer peripheral surface matched to the inner surface of the output control ring. The driven outer rotor also has a toothed inner surface. An inner rotor is mounted to a rotatable shaft and is meshed to the toothed inner surface of the outer rotor.
Implementation Method 3
A vane-sealed torque arm being mounted to the outer peripheral surface of the output control ring and moveable within an annular control cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A variable output gerotor pump includes outer and inner driven and driving rotors and an annular output control ring which is rotatable within a bore mounted within the pump's body so as to change the amount of working fluid which is transferred from the inlet port to the outlet port of the pump. This is particularly useful for controlling the output flow of lubricating oil used in an internal combustion engine.