Water pump with electronically controlled viscous coupling drive
US6481390B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 19, 2001 |
| Grant date | Nov 19, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 19, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF01P2025/64
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electronically-controlled viscous coupling is coupled to a water pump to control the coolant flow rate of engine coolant to an engine to maximize fuel economy and minimize emissions while preventing pump cavitation and possible water pump damage. The viscous coupling controls the rotational speed of a water pump shaft that is used for moving engine coolant through a cooling system as a function of engine speed and engine temperature. The viscous coupling has a stationary electrical coil that, when excited by electrical current, closes valve members which prevent the viscous fluid from entering the working chamber, thereby preventing the creation of torque to drive the water pump shaft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.