Vehicle Pump System With Single Engine Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pump systems for fluid dispersion in applications like landscape and lawn services face challenges in being compact, lightweight, and efficiently powered, especially when requiring multiple pumps and simultaneous operation from a portable power source.
Innovation Solution
A pump system with multiple pumps powered by a single internal combustion engine, utilizing a flexible power transmission system such as a pulley-driven belt system to distribute power efficiently, along with a control device for independent pump operation and the ability to charge vehicle batteries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple pumps are used to pump multiple fluids simultaneously, then the pumping capacity and versatility are improved, but the system complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pumps into a single integrated pump system that shares common components including a single power source (internal combustion engine), common fuel tank, common exhaust system, and shared control electronics. This merging approach allows multiple pumps to operate simultaneously while reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate pump systems for each pump.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump system is designed with universal components that serve multiple functions. The single power source can power any combination of pumps, the control system can manage different pump operations independently, and the frame structure supports various pump configurations. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain high productivity while managing complexity through standardized interfaces.
2Ease of operation
If multiple pumps are powered by separate power sources, then each pump can operate independently, but the system weight and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple power sources into a single internal combustion engine that powers all pumps through a common drivetrain. This eliminates the weight of multiple engines while maintaining independent pump operation through individual clutch mechanisms that allow selective engagement of each pump based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control elements including clutches and variable speed drives that allow the single power source to dynamically allocate power to different pumps as needed. This dynamic capability enables independent operation of each pump while using a single, lighter power source compared to having multiple dedicated engines.
3Reliability
If a rigid power transmission system is used to power multiple pumps, then power transfer is reliable, but the system cannot adapt to different pump configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic power transmission system using belt drives and pulleys instead of rigid mechanical linkages. This allows the power transmission to accommodate different pump positions and configurations while maintaining reliable power transfer. The belt-driven system can absorb misalignments and adjust to varying operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The power transmission system is segmented into independent drive trains for each pump, allowing individual adjustment and configuration. Each pump can be independently positioned and connected to the power source through its own belt drive system, providing both reliability in power transfer and flexibility in configuration.
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 provides a compact, efficient, and portable solution for pumping multiple fluids, allowing for simultaneous operation of multiple pumps with a single power source, while also enabling power transfer to external systems like vehicle batteries, enhancing operational flexibility and convenience.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible power transmission system such as a pulley-driven belt system
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle-mounted pump system is disclosed for use with a service vehicle. A chassis can be configured to be secured to the service vehicle, and a frame can be supported by the chassis. A plurality of pumps can be supported by the frame, with each of the pumps being configured to pump liquid for dispersal external to the service vehicle. A power source can be supported by at least one of the chassis and the frame. A power transmission system can be configured to transfer power from the power source to the plurality of pumps.