Variable flow impeller-type water pump with movable shroud
US6669439B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 10, 2002 |
| Grant date | Dec 30, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 10, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04D15/0038
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A variable-capacity water pump includes a housing having an impeller mounted on a rotatable shaft. The pump impeller has a plurality of vanes fixed to a flange. A circumferentially surrounding shroud is axially movable within the housing and may move between extended and retracted positions to surround or expose the vanes and therefore control the effective working capacity of the pump. At low engine speeds, the vanes are fully extended and the maximum amount of kinetic energy is transferred to the coolant. When the rotational speed increases above a certain pre-determined level, the shroud is pushed upwards towards the inlet opening and a portion of the vanes becomes covered. The capacity of the pump decreases and the power required to drive the pump also decreases. Both passive and active control means for the shroud are disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.