UNIVERSAL-TYPE PUMP CASING WITH MODULAR PORTS
One or more techniques and/or systems are disclosed for a universal-type pump casing that allows for coupling to various piping couplers, for various sizes of fluid lines. This can allow the pump casing to accept the majority of current fluid line coupling, for various fluid line sizes used with these types of pumps, thereby eliminating the need to have a different casing for each different sized fluid line. A universal-type pump casing with a proximal end engaged with a pump bracket, and a distal end affixed to an end plate to define the pumping chamber. A first and second port can have an opening of a predetermined diameter, with a port face that can couple with various modular port flanges, to provide different port flange configurations.
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This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/409,465, entitled UNIVERSAL-TYPE CASING WITH MODULAR PORTS, filed Sep. 23, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUNDFluid pumps are used to pump fluid, in myriad applications, typically using a pumping chamber that moves fluid between an inlet and outlet of the pump. The various applications may be implemented for different fluids, for myriad desired pumping speeds/volumes, in different situations. As such, the different applications can call for different pump sizes, different piping sizes, and various attachments for coupling the inlet and outlet ports to the target fluid lines into and out of which the target fluid is moved.
SUMMARYThis Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.
One or more techniques and systems are described herein for a redesigned, universal-type pump casing that allows for coupling to various piping couplers, for various sizes of fluid lines. This can allow the pump casing to accept the majority of current fluid line coupling, for various fluid line sizes used with these types of pumps, thereby eliminating the need to have a different casing for each different sized fluid line. This universal-type pump casing design can effectively allow a distributor or end user to stock a common casing, and configure it as needed for a target fluid line size, which can lead to lower cost, less inventory, and shortened lead times. Further, this design also allows for in-the-field design, and the ability to change port size without the disassembly of the pump.
In one implementation of a universal-type pump casing, the casing can be configured to be operably coupled with different port sizes using differently configured modular flanges. A universal-type pump casing system that allows different port sizes to be selectively disposed on the casing can comprise a proximal end that is configured to be operably engaged with a pump bracket. Further, the universal-type pump casing system can comprise a distal end that is configured to be operably affixed to an end plate to define the pumping chamber. A first port and a second port can each comprise an opening of a predetermined diameter; and each port can comprise a port face having a set of casing flange coupler receivers that are respectively configured to receive a fastener. A first modular port flange can comprise a first port configuration and a set of bores or vias that are complementary to the pre-determined pattern and respectively configured to receive the fastener. A second modular port flange can comprise a second port configuration and a set of bores or vias complementary to the pre-determined pattern and respectively configured to receive the fastener. In this implementation, the first modular port and the second modular port can be configured to be operably fastened to the pump casing to provide a first port configuration and/or a second port configuration.
To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.
The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.
In one aspect, a universal-type pump casing can be devised for a pump, which allows for attachment of multiple port sizes, providing for attachment of various fluid line sizes. Prior casings only allowed for one port size, for a target fluid line size, for example, having a fixed flange for the port that accommodated merely one port size. This means that multiple casings are needed to accommodate various port sizes, and that a pump would need to be disassembled in order to change port sizes. In this aspect, as described herein, the universal-type pump casing is configured to accept a variety of flanges, which will determine the port size. The casing accepts each port size, and is coupled to a target size flange, with a gasket and appropriate fasteners. In some implementations, the target port size flange(s) are fastened onto the universal-type casing to form a gasketed joint. In this implementation, the flange sizes can vary to meet end user need, and may be switched out as needed, for example, for in-the-field redesign and/or product line change-out, without needing to change the casing.
Additionally, there are various sized pumps used for different applications, with the ability to pump at different rates (e.g., of speed, volume), for different fluid types. In some implementations, each size of pump may have a fastener pattern particular to that type and size on the pump casing. In this implementation, each fastener pattern can be configured to match the port options available to that size/type of pump (e.g., flange options). As an example, certain pump sizes/types may only be able to accommodate a certain range of port size options, and the fastener pattern on the casing can be configured to match that range of options for the target size/type of pump. Nozzle load testing of the universal-type pump casing, with modular flanges, validates the sealing capability of the various port sizes to the appropriate fluid line size.
In this way, for example, flanges (e.g., comprising various port sizes) can be readily changed at any desired time by the end user without the need to have another casing. Additionally, each casing is configured with at least two ports, an inlet and an outlet. In some implementations, the two ports are independent of each other, and each can be set up with different port sizes (e.g., flange sizes), or set-up to meet different engineering standards (ANSI or DIN). Another advantage of the universal-type casing with modular port size flanges would also allow for the less utilized port options to be more viable, as adding more port options would not divide the quantity on the single casing design. As an example, the ability to change the ports without the need to change the casing itself, allows a manufacturer, distributor, end user to only stock one casing part number for a given material and size. This can help consolidate all the different casing port sizes to one increased volume, leading to reduced manufacturing and inventory costs.
For example, depending on the mode of the pump during operation (e.g., rotation direction), the respective ports 104, 106 can either be in inlet port or an outlet port. Additionally, in this implementation, the respective ports 104, 106 have a planer port face 114, 116 that can operably receive a modular flange, described below, with a gasket disposed therebetween. Respective ports 104, 106 also comprise a set of casing flange coupler receivers 118, 120 (e.g., in this example shown as threaded holes for receiving fasteners, but other attachment means are contemplated), for operably, fixedly engaging a modular flange with the port face 114, 116. As illustrated, the shape of the respective port faces 114, 116 can be configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to be complementary to a target modular flange, such that a substantially leak-free coupling is provided during operation. In this example, the respective port faces 114, 116 have a particular shape, but other shapes are contemplated, and some are shown herein.
As illustrated, the respective port flanges 224, 226 can be fastened to the casing 202 with a gasket 234, 234′ disposed between, forming a gasketed joint for the ports 204, 206. In this example, sets of fasteners 228, 228′ can be used to fasten the port flanges 224, 226 to the casing 202 at the port faces 214, 216. It is anticipated that myriad other types of fastening devices and systems can be implemented, with the result being a substantially leak-free joint at the respective ports 204, 206. Further, as illustrated in this example, the respective port flanges 224, 226 comprise through-holes or vias 230, 230′ (e.g., counter-bored holes) that align with the appropriate casing flange coupler receivers 218, 220 (e.g., threaded bore holes) to allow at least a portion of a fastener 228, 228′ to pass therethrough, for example, and provide a shoulder for the fasteners 228, 228′ to clamp against.
In
With continued reference to
As described herein, the universal-type casing can comprise a pre-determined first pattern of casing flange coupler (e.g., 118, 120 of
In
In
The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Further, At least one of A and B and/or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.
Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.
Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”
The implementations have been described, hereinabove. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatuses may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.
Claims
1. A pump casing system that provides universal-type coupling for different port sizes to be selectively, operably engaged with the casing, the system comprising:
- a body comprising: a proximal end configured to be operably engaged with a pump bracket; a distal end configured to be operably affixed to an end plate to define a pumping chamber therein;
- a first port and a second port respectively comprising an opening of a first diameter, and respectively comprising a port face having a set of casing flange coupler receivers in a first pattern;
- a first modular port flange that comprises a first port configuration and a set of bores or vias arranged in a complementary pattern to the first pattern; and
- a second modular port flange that comprises a second port configuration and a set of bores or vias arranged in a complementary pattern to the first pattern;
- wherein the first modular port and the second modular port are configured to be operably fastened to the pump casing to provide a first port configuration and/or a second port configuration.
2. The system of claim 1, the respective port faces comprising a gasket channel in which a gasket is operably disposed between the port face and the accompanying modular port flange.
3. The system of claim 1, comprising a planer gasket disposed between respective port faces and the accompanying modular port flange.
4. The system of claim 3, the planer gasket comprising vias arranged in the first pattern.
5. The system of claim 1, the respective modular port flanges comprising a set of flange coupling bores configured to facilitate fastening of a fluid line coupling flange to the port flange, the flange coupling bores arranged in a second pattern complementary to the fluid line coupling flange.
6. The system of claim 1, a first, first modular port flange operably engaged with the first port and a second, first modular port flange operably engaged with the second port.
7. The system of claim 1, a first, second modular port flange operably engaged with the first port and a second, second modular port flange operably engaged with the second port.
8. The system of claim 1, a first modular port flange operably engaged with the first port and a second modular port flange operably engaged with the second port.
9. The system of claim 1, the first port configuration comprising a NPT port type flange.
10. The system of claim 1, the second port configuration comprising a standard port type flange.
11. The system of claim 1, the first port configuration comprising the first diameter and a second diameter.
12. The system of claim 1, the second port configuration comprising the first diameter and a third diameter.
13. A pump casing system operably engaged with a pump bracket at a first end and an end plate at a second end to form a rotating pump housing, the system comprising:
- a first fluid port disposed in the pump casing, the first fluid port comprising an outwardly facing first port face, the first port face comprising a set of first bores arranged in a first pattern;
- a second fluid port disposed in the pump casing, the second fluid port comprising an outwardly facing second port face, the second port face comprising a set of second bores arranged in the first pattern;
- a first set of modular port flanges comprising a first port configuration and a set of bores arranged in the first pattern;
- a second set of modular port flanges comprising a second port configuration and a set of bores arranged in the first pattern;
- wherein the first port configuration is different than the second port configuration.
14. The system of claim 13, the first port configuration comprising a first diameter bore, and the second port configuration comprising a second diameter bore.
15. The system of claim 13, the first port configuration comprising a first fluid pipe attachment arrangement, and the second port configuration comprising a second fluid pipe attachment arrangement.
16. The system of claim 13, the respective port faces comprising a gasket channel in which a gasket is operably disposed between the port face and the accompanying modular port flange.
17. The system of claim 13, comprising a planer gasket disposed between respective port faces and the accompanying modular port flange.
18. The system of claim 13, the respective modular port flanges comprising a set of flange coupling bores configured to facilitate fastening of a fluid line coupling flange to the modular port flange, the flange coupling bores arranged in a second pattern complementary to the fluid line coupling flange.
19. The system of claim 1, a first modular port flange operably engaged with the first port and a second modular port flange operably engaged with the second port.
20. A pump casing system that provides universal-type coupling for different port sizes to be selectively, operably engaged with the casing, the system comprising:
- a body comprising: a proximal end configured to be operably engaged with a pump bracket; a distal end configured to be operably affixed to an end plate to define a pumping chamber therein;
- a first port and a second port respectively comprising an opening of a first diameter, and respectively comprising a planer port face having a set of casing flange coupler receivers arranged in a first pattern;
- a first modular port flange that comprises a first port configuration comprising the first diameter, and a set of bores or vias arranged in the first pattern; and
- a second modular port flange that comprises a second port configuration comprising the first diameter, and a set of bores or vias arranged in the first pattern; and
- wherein the first modular port and the second modular port are configured to be operably fastened to the pump casing to provide a first port configuration and/or a second, different port configuration;
- wherein the respective modular port flanges comprise a set of flange coupling bores configured to facilitate fastening of a fluid line coupling flange to the port flange, the flange coupling bores arranged in a second pattern complementary to the fluid line coupling flange.
Type: Application
Filed: Sep 22, 2023
Publication Date: Mar 28, 2024
Applicant: Viking Pump, Inc. (Cedar Falls, IA)
Inventors: Alfonso JOHNSON (Cedar Falls, IA), Grant JOHNSON (Waterloo, IA), Dylan LENDE (Waterloo, IA), Scott MEYER (Brandon, IA), Justin PIERCE (Waterloo, IA)
Application Number: 18/472,723