Variable Output Pump Using Differential Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump systems, such as positive displacement gear pumps, have a constant volumetric output per revolution and fluid output that is independent of the required output pressure, limiting their ability to vary fluid output efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A variable output pump system is designed with a control stage and a main stage, both being positive displacement pumps, connected through a differential linkage that allows for mechanical communication and fluid communication, enabling the adjustment of fluid output by varying the rotational speed and torque of each stage through a differential linkage or control valves, while maintaining a constant input rotational speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a positive displacement pump is used, then the volumetric output per revolution is constant, but the fluid output cannot be varied efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The pump is divided into two separate positive displacement pump stages: a main stage pump and a control stage pump. Each stage independently pumps fluid from the fluid input, and their outputs are combined through a differential linkage. This segmentation allows independent control of each stage's rotational speed to achieve variable total fluid output.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the rotational speeds of the main stage pump and control stage pump independently while maintaining a constant input rotational speed. By varying the speed ratio between the two stages through the differential linkage, the total fluid output can be continuously adjusted without changing the input speed.
2Ease of operation
If fluid output is independent of output pressure, then the pump operates simply, but the ability to control fluid output based on load requirements is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The differential linkage mechanically couples the main stage pump and control stage pump, creating a feedback mechanism where the rotational speed of one stage automatically adjusts in response to the other. This allows the system to respond to load requirements and output pressure conditions while maintaining operational simplicity through mechanical self-regulation.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable output pump includes a fluid input, a control stage pump having an input portion and an output portion, a main stage pump having an input portion and an output portion, and a differential linkage in mechanical communication with the control stage pump and the main stage pump. The input portion of the control stage pump is in fluid communication with the fluid input and the input portion of the main stage pump is in fluid communication with the fluid input and the output portion of the control stage pump.