Pumps and pump heads comprising volume-compensation feature
US8734139B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 30, 2011 |
| Grant date | May 27, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF04C2270/18
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A fluid pump having a pump housing that includes at least one expansion joint, provides volume compensation, as needed, to adjust for changes in pressure in the pump housing. Various embodiments automatically and passively reduce static pressure in the pump housing associated with a freezing event, thereby preventing damage to the pump head. Volume compensation is achieved by employing, in each expansion joint, a dynamic seal that allows relative movement of two portions of the pump housing, and a bias that provides a selected counter-force to the movement of the housing portions. The subject pumps are particularly suited for use in automotive and other rugged applications, in which fluid pumps may experience recurring freezing events.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.