Variable Displacement Pump Calibration with Proximity Feedback

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing variable displacement pumps require manual adjustment for output volume per revolution, and electronic adjustment methods face challenges in calibrating precise dispense volumes due to dimensional variations and inherent tolerances, leading to inaccurate flow volumes.

Innovation Solution

A calibration system for electronically adjustable dispensing pumps using a linear actuator, proximity sensor, and adjustable flag to determine and adjust the home position of the actuator, ensuring precise angle control between the upper and lower base portions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If a linear actuator is used to electronically adjust the angle between base portions, then automation of adjustment is improved, but calibration precision deteriorates due to dimensional variations and tolerances

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of angle adjustmentVSAvoidcalibration precision of dispense volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism using a proximity sensor to detect the position of a flag attached to the linear actuator. The sensor provides feedback signals to the controller, allowing the system to automatically determine the home position and compensate for dimensional variations, thereby maintaining calibration precision despite using an automated linear actuator

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary calibration actions by establishing a known home position before actual dispensing operations. The flag and proximity sensor system pre-determines the reference position, allowing subsequent dispensing volumes to be accurately controlled relative to this calibrated starting point

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Device complexity

If rigid members are used to translate linear motion to angular motion, then mechanical connection is simplified, but relationship complexity increases due to varying angular movement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of mechanical connectionVSAvoidcomplexity of linear-to-angular motion relationship

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical linkage systems with a simpler linear actuator combined with a proximity sensor feedback system. This substitution eliminates the need for complex rigid members while providing precise control through electronic sensing and control, thereby reducing both mechanical complexity and motion relationship complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Device complexity

If manual adjustment methods are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability deteriorates as pumps can only operate at single output volumes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesimplicity of adjustment mechanismVSAvoidability to adjust output volume

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms the static, fixed-angle adjustment mechanisms into a dynamic system where the angle between base portions can be continuously adjusted through a linear actuator. This dynamic capability allows the pump to adapt to different output volume requirements while maintaining relatively simple mechanical construction through the use of a linear actuator and hinge mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables precise and repeatable electronic adjustment of dispense volumes without manual intervention, allowing for accurate and dynamic control of fluid flow rates.

Implementation Method 1

A hinge pivotally connects the second end of the upper base portion and the second end of the lower base portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

A proximity sensor is secured to the base upper position. A flag is secured to the drive rod coupler, wherein the flag moves directly with the drive rod. The flag includes a body and a calibration element projecting therefrom. The calibration element is adapted to activate the proximity sensor when the linear drive is in a home position

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectProximity sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS20250334112A1Calibratable variable displacement pump

Publication Date: 2025.10.30 FLUID METERING INC

AI summary

A dispensing pump includes a linear actuator mounted on a base. The linear actuator includes a drive rod having a coupler. The coupler joins the drive rod to a first end of a connecting member. A second end of the connecting member is secured to a lower base portion of the base. An attachment plate attaches a motor to a first end of an upper base portion of the base. A flag is secured to the drive rod coupler, wherein the flag moves directly with the drive rod. The flag includes a body and a calibration element. The calibration element is positionally adjustable relative to the flag body. The calibration element is adapted to activate a proximity sensor when the linear drive is in a home position. The home position is adjustable upon adjustment of the calibration member.