APPARATUS INCLUDING SWASHPLATES FIXED ON SHAFT ASSEMBLY AND PISTON ASSEMBLIES

Abstract

An apparatus includes a shaft assembly and swashplates fixed on the shaft assembly facing opposite to each other. At least two double rod cylinders are configured to reciprocate parallel to the shaft assembly between the swashplates. The at least two double rod cylinders are configured to push against the swashplates in either direction. This is done in such a way that the at least two double rod cylinders generate rotational force in the same direction at the shaft assembly. The apparatus may be used as a fluid motor, a fluid compressor (also called a pump) or an internal combustion engine (either with or without a guide path provided by or formed in the swashplates).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This document relates to the technical field of (and is not limited to) an apparatus including a combination of swashplates fixed on a shaft assembly and piston assemblies (and method therefor) interacting with the swashplates.

BACKGROUND

Devices for converting reciprocating motion (up and down or back and forth) into rotational motion, or vice versa, can serve a variety of purposes. For example, some such devices comprising basically cranks attached to rods include fishing reels, pencil sharpeners, manual car windows, clocks, water pumps, and steam engines. Combustion processes in engines may also generate pressure in a piston, creating an upward reciprocating motion, which may be translated into rotational motion via a crankshaft. Some conventional air compressors may also utilize crankshaft technology to drive pistons.

Similar to crankshafts, swashplates may convert reciprocating motion into rotational motion, and vice versa. A swashplate normally consists of a disk attached to a shaft, but mounted at an oblique angle (rather than aligned directly perpendicularly to the shaft). As the shaft rotates and the disk spins, to the outward observer, the disk edge may appear to oscillate. The greater the angle of the disk to the shaft, the greater the apparent vertical movement of the disk edge. The apparent oscillation of the rotating disk (also called, a swashplate) may be converted into actual linear reciprocating motion by placing a follower device against one of the surfaces of the disk (swashplate). The follower device is not attached (affixed) to the disk (swashplate). The follower device pushes against the disk in such a way that the follower device urges the disk to rotate. The follower device may absorb (or conversely, as described below, generate) the up-and-down motion (reciprocal motion), similar to the action between a cam and a cam follower.

Some swashplate configurations (designs) may include followers with air compressor chambers or pistons (such as those found in some motors). The air compressor chambers or pistons may be positioned in-between the swashplate and—located on the opposite end of the swashplate—an anchor device, such as a cylinder block. The pistons (chambers) may be rigidly attached to the cylinder block on one side, and on other side pistons fit against the swashplate (preferably with the assistance of dents or shoes formed in or provided by the swashplate for receiving the pistons). In other words, the pistons may often not be connected to the swashplate but rather be allowed some freedom of movement, for example, by using ball bearings or other ball and socket connectors. In some swashplate air compressor devices, as the swashplate rotates or pivots and the pistons move up and down (reciprocate), a fluid may be drawn into the piston channels, and the fluid may then be compressed and discharged.

One advantage of swashplate air compressors and/or motors over crankshaft technology may be efficiency, and, therefore, size. Different swashplate air compressors and/or motor designs have been created with the objective of increasing efficiency and power without suffering certain drawbacks from increased power (such as weight, size, heating, etc.). For example, some swashplate air compressors and/or motors may include: (A) outer resin films configured to provide greater lubrication, (B) a refrigerant device configured to facilitate cooling, and/or (C) oil or lubricant-free designs (to save energy by reducing friction).

SUMMARY

In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus is configured to convert reciprocating motion into rotational motion, and vice versa.

In accordance with an embodiment, an apparatus includes instances of a swashplate (also called a multi-swashplate design) in which the swashplates are connected by other parts and operate simultaneously. The apparatus and a method thereof are for improving efficiency of the operation of a rotatable motor.

In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus includes a first swashplate mounted to a shaft assembly so that a first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate is at an oblique angle to the shaft assembly. The first inner-facing surface may be called a first inside surface. The apparatus also includes a second swashplate mounted to the shaft assembly so that a second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate is also at an oblique angle to the shaft assembly. The second inner-facing surface may be called a second inside surface. The first swashplate and the second swashplate are positioned opposite from and facing one another so that the first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate substantially faces the second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate. The shaft assembly is connected to the first swashplate and to the second swashplate so that the first swashplate and the second swashplate (once connected just so) are capable of rotating as the shaft assembly is made to rotate, and/or so that the shaft assembly is capable of rotating as the first swashplate and second swashplate are made to rotate.

In accordance with an embodiment, at least two piston assemblies are aligned parallel to the shaft assembly. Hereinafter (in the summary section), the term “at least two piston assemblies” will be referred to as the “the piston assemblies”. Each of the piston assemblies includes a first piston end and a second piston end. The second piston end is spaced apart from the first piston end. The second piston end is located opposite from (spaced apart from) the first piston end.

In accordance with an embodiment, the first piston end is configured to substantially fit against the first swashplate (in particular, to fit against the inside surface of the first swashplate). The second piston end is configured to substantially fit against the second swashplate (in particular, to fit against the inside surface of the second swashplate). The piston assemblies are configured to be reciprocated (such as, along an up-and-down motion, etc.).

In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus further includes a housing assembly configured to hold the shaft assembly and the piston assemblies together as one unit. The housing assembly is also configured allow the piston assemblies to reciprocate and to allow the shaft assembly to rotate.

The piston assemblies have the first piston end configured to fit against the first swashplate. The piston assemblies have the second piston end configured to fit against the second swashplate. The piston assemblies are configured to fit against the first swashplate and the second swashplate. The piston assemblies are configured to reciprocate due to the rotating of the first swashplate and the second swashplate, and/or so the first swashplate and the second swashplate rotate and the shaft assembly connected thereto may also consequently rotate due to the reciprocating of the piston assemblies.

In accordance with an embodiment, the first swashplate and the second swashplate are substantially the same shape and size. The first swashplate and the second swashplate may be mounted symmetrically to each other about the shaft assembly. For example, for the case where both the first swashplate and the second swashplate include lopsided disc shapes, the first swashplate and the second swashplate are mounted at degrees from one another or similarly configured so that the lopsidedness of the first swashplate and the second swashplate may be substantially counterbalanced as the first swashplate and the second swashplate rotate.

In accordance with an embodiment, the apparatus includes a multi-swashplate air compressor, with pneumatic pistons aligned parallel to the shaft assembly, which may also be fluid powered. The piston assemblies include the pneumatic pistons. The piston assemblies, in one embodiment, may also be housed in chambers, which may also have cylindrical shapes. The piston assemblies may reciprocate due to fluid entering into the fluid chambers and the fluid becoming compressed. As the piston assemblies reciprocate, the first piston end and the second piston end may press against the inside surfaces of the first swashplate and the second swashplate in such a manner that the first swashplate and the second swashplate (with the shaft assembly connected thereto) may engage in rotational motion. In some embodiments, the piston ends and/or the inside surfaces of the first swashplate and the second swashplate may be adapted to guide the placement/pressing of the piston ends against the inside surfaces (of the first swashplate and the second swashplate) without restricting the intended movement (for example, by using ball bearings). Moreover, in certain embodiments, the sequence of the reciprocating movement of the piston assemblies may be predetermined according to desired use—for example, to maximize (improve) the conversion of reciprocating motion into rotational motion without some resulting disadvantages, such as overheating or accelerated degradation of parts, or to achieve a desired degree of pulsation. In this manner, the apparatus may be utilized as a motor mechanism. It will be appreciated that increasing the number of pistons (also called cylinders), perhaps in a circular formation surrounding the shaft assembly, may increase torque. By incorporating two swashplates rather than one, it is anticipated for some embodiments that greater torque with high volumetric and overall efficiency may be achieved, which might allow a smaller size yet still sufficiently powerful air compressor.

Other aspects are identified in the claims.

Other aspects and features of the non-limiting embodiments may now become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The non-limiting embodiments may be more fully appreciated by reference to the following detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 (SHEET 1 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of an apparatus;

FIG. 2 (SHEET 2 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a cutaway side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 (SHEET 3 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a perspective front view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 (SHEET 4 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a perspective back view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 (SHEET 5 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a schematic view of embodiments of a first guide path provided by the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 (SHEET 6 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a close-up side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1; and

FIG. 7 (SHEET 7 of 7 SHEETS) depicts a side view of an embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 1.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale and may be illustrated by phantom lines, diagrammatic representations and fragmentary views. In certain instances, details unnecessary for an understanding of the embodiments (and/or details that render other details difficult to perceive) may have been omitted.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several figures of the drawings. Elements in the several figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not been drawn to scale. The dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be emphasized relative to other elements for facilitating an understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. In addition, common, but well-understood, elements that are useful or necessary in commercially feasible embodiments are often not depicted to provide a less obstructed view of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

LISTING OF REFERENCE NUMERALS USED IN THE DRAWINGS

• 100 apparatus
• 102 first swashplate
• 103 first inner-facing surface
• 104 second swashplate
• 105 second inner-facing surface
• 106 shaft assembly
• 107 longitudinal axis
• 108A first guide path
• 108B second guide path
• 110A first housing piece
• 1108 second housing piece
• 110C third housing piece
• 110D fourth housing piece
• 110 housing assembly
• 112 third swashplate
• 114 radial bearing, first radial bearing, second radial bearing
• 116 thrust bearing
• (200, 202, 204) at least two piston assemblies, the piston assemblies
• 200 first piston assembly
• 202 second piston assembly
• 204 third piston assembly
• 206 first piston end
• 208 second piston end
• 210 input fluid port
• 212 output fluid port
• 214 interior fluid chamber
• 216 movable piston
• 218 first piston shaft
• 219 second piston shaft
• 220 fourth piston assembly
• 222 fifth piston assembly
• 224 sixth piston assembly
• 310 inner circle
• 312 intermediate circle
• 314 outer circle

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENT(S)

The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. As used, the word “exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described as “exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims. For the description, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “left,” “rear,” “right,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the examples as oriented in the drawings. There is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory in the preceding Technical Field, Background, Summary or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood that the devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are exemplary embodiments (examples), aspects and/or concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. It is understood that the phrase “at least one” is equivalent to “a”. The aspects (examples, alterations, modifications, options, variations, embodiments and any equivalent thereof) are described regarding the drawings. It should be understood that the invention is limited to the subject matter provided by the claims, and that the invention is not limited to the particular aspects depicted and described.

FIG. 1 depicts a side view of an embodiment of an apparatus 100.

The apparatus 100 may be called a swashplate device, a multi-swashplate air compressor device, a multi-swashplate device, a motor assembly or a pump assembly. The pump assembly is configured to move a flowable material (fluid, liquid, gas, or a slurry) by mechanical action. The pump assembly consumes energy to perform mechanical work by moving the flowable material. The motor assembly is a mechanical device, an electrical device or an electro-mechanical device configured to urge motion.

The apparatus 100 may be used as a fluid motor, a fluid compressor (a pump) or an internal combustion engine.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 includes a first swashplate 102, a second swashplate 104 and a shaft assembly 106. The first swashplate 102 provides (defines) a first inner-facing surface 103. The second swashplate 104 provides (defines) a second inner-facing surface 105. The first inner-facing surface 103 is spaced apart from the second inner-facing surface 105. The first inner-facing surface 103 and the second inner-facing surface 105 face each other. The first inner-facing surface 103 is oriented non-orthogonally relative to the shaft assembly 106. The second inner-facing surface 105 is oriented non-orthogonally relative to the shaft assembly 106.

The shaft assembly 106 has a longitudinal axis 107 extending along a length thereof. The shaft assembly 106 is fixedly attached (coupled) to the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104. This is done in such a way that the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are spaced apart from each other (once affixed or mounted to the shaft assembly 106). The first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 extend radially from the shaft assembly 106. For the case where the shaft assembly 106 is made to rotate, the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are made to rotate (in response). For the case where the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are made to rotate, the shaft assembly 106 is made to rotate (in response).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 further includes a housing assembly 110 (a partial view of the housing assembly 110 is depicted in FIG. 1). The housing assembly 110 includes a first housing piece 110A and a second housing piece 110B. The second housing piece 110B is spaced apart from the first housing piece 110A. The first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B are rotatably mounted to the shaft assembly 106. This is done in such a way that the first housing piece 110A and the shaft assembly 106 are rotatable relative to each other, and the second housing piece 110B and the shaft assembly 106 are rotatable relative to each other. The first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B are fixed in position relative to each other (the first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B do not move relative to each other).

The first housing piece 110A extends radially from the shaft assembly 106. The second housing piece 110B extends radially from the shaft assembly 106. The first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B face each other. The first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B are oriented parallel with each other. The first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B are positioned orthogonally relative to the shaft assembly 106.

For the case where the housing assembly 110 is stationary (that is, held relatively stationary), the shaft assembly 106 is rotatable (relative to the housing assembly 110). For the case where the shaft assembly 106 is stationary (that is, held relatively stationary), the housing assembly 110 is rotatable (relative to the shaft assembly 106).

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 further includes at least two piston assemblies (200, 202, 204). Hereinafter, the term “at least two piston assemblies (200, 202, 204)” will be referred to as “the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204)” for simplification and ease description used in the detailed description.

Each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are positioned radially spaced apart from the shaft assembly 106.

Each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) extend parallel to the shaft assembly 106.

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are positioned symmetrically around the shaft assembly 106.

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are evenly positioned around the shaft assembly 106.

For the case where there are three instances of a piston assembly (as depicted in FIG. 1), the piston assemblies are spaced 120 degrees apart from each other (radially and symmetrically across opposite sides of the shaft assembly 106).

For the case where there are two instances of a piston assembly, the piston assemblies are spaced 180 degrees apart from each other (radially across opposite sides of the shaft assembly 106).

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are fixedly attached to the housing assembly 110.

More specifically, the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are fixedly attached to the first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B.

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) extend between the first housing piece 110A and the second housing piece 110B.

Each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) has a first piston end 206 and a second piston end 208. The second piston end 208 is spaced apart from the first piston end 206.

The first piston end 206 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) is configured to interface (interact) with the first swashplate 102.

The second piston end 208 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) is configured to interface (interact) with the second swashplate 104.

For the case where a prime moving force (a rotational force or a torque) is applied to the shaft assembly 106 (so that the shaft assembly 106 is made to rotate, the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are made to rotate (in response to the rotation of the shaft assembly 106). As the first inner-facing surface 103 is made to rotate, the first inner-facing surface 103 urges (in use) the first piston end 206 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) to reciprocate. As the second inner-facing surface 105 is made to rotate, the first inner-facing surface 103 (in use) urges the second piston end 208 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) to reciprocate. For this case, the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are urged (operated) to force the flow of a piston fluid (for instance, through a fluid circuit that is operatively connected to the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204)). For this case, the apparatus 100 is configured to operate as a pumping device.

For the case where a prime moving force (a linear force) is applied via piston fluid flow through the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204), the first piston end 206 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) is forced to reciprocate, and the second piston end 208 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) is forced to reciprocate. Forced movement of the first piston end 206 causes the first inner-facing surface 103 to be rotated (thereby urging the first swashplate 102 to be rotated). Forced movement of the second piston end 208 causes the second inner-facing surface 105 to be rotated (thereby urging the second swashplate 104 to be rotated). For this case, the shaft assembly 106 is urged to rotate as a result of the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 that are made to rotate by reciprocating movement of the first piston end 206 and the second piston end 208. For this case, the apparatus 100 is configured to operate as a motor device.

FIG. 2 depicts a cutaway side view of an embodiment of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 depicts a cross section of the apparatus 100 taken along a cross-section line A-A of FIG. 1.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, the first swashplate 102 provides (defines) a first guide path 108A formed on the first inner-facing surface 103. The second swashplate 104 provides (defines) a second guide path 108B formed on the second inner-facing surface 105. The first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B are coaxially aligned relative to each other. The first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B extend in a closed loop circuit aligned around the shaft assembly 106. The apparatus 100 may be used as a fluid motor, a fluid compressor (a pump) or an internal combustion engine (either with or without the first guide path 108A provided by or formed in the first swashplate 102, and/or either with or without the second guide path 108B provided by or formed in the second swashplate 104.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, an instance of a radial bearing 114 (two radial bearings are depicted) is axially mounted to the shaft assembly 106, and the first housing piece 110A fixedly radially extends from the radial bearing 114. An instance of the radial bearing 114 is axially mounted to the shaft assembly 106, and the second housing piece 110B fixedly radially extends from the radial bearing 114. Each instance of the radial bearing 114 is axially mounted to a thrust bearing 116 that is axially mounted to the shaft assembly 106.

Referring to the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 2, each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) provides an input fluid port 210 and an output fluid port 212. The output fluid port 212 is paced apart from the input fluid port 210. An interior fluid chamber 214 extends between the input fluid port 210 and the output fluid port 212. A movable piston 216 is operatively received in the interior fluid chamber 214. The movable piston 216 is configured to be movable relative to the interior fluid chamber 214. The movable piston 216 is slide movable (reciprocally movable) along a longitudinal length of the interior fluid chamber 214 in response to movement of fluid through the interior fluid chamber 214.

A first piston shaft 218 extends from the movable piston 216 toward the first swashplate 102. The first piston end 206 is mounted to an end portion of the first piston shaft 218. A second piston shaft 219 extends from the movable piston 216 toward the second swashplate 104. The second piston end 208 is mounted to an end portion of the second piston shaft 219. The first piston end 206 is engagable with the first guide path 108A. The second piston end 208 is engagable with the second guide path 108B.

Referring to the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the apparatus 100 includes the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104, opposite from and facing one another and both mounted to a shaft assembly 106 (also called a rotatable central axle). A first inner-facing surface 103 (of the first swashplate 102) and a second inner-facing surface 105 (of the second swashplate 104) are mounted at oblique angles to the longitudinal axis 107 extending through (along) the shaft assembly 106. The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) may run parallel to (are aligned parallel to) the shaft assembly 106. Each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) includes a first piston end 206 and a second piston end 208. The first piston end 206 may be called a bottom end. The second piston end 208 may be called a top end. The second piston end 208 may be called an opposite piston end. Each of the first piston end 206 and the second piston end 208 may substantially fit against either the inside first inner-facing surface 103 (of the first swashplate 102) or the inside second inner-facing surface 105 (of the second swashplate 104). The apparatus 100 also includes a housing assembly 110 (also called a frame section) configured to hold the shaft assembly 106 and the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) together as one unit.

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) are configured to reciprocate (linearly). The combination of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204), the first piston end 206, the second piston end 208, the first inner-facing surface 103 (of the first swashplate 102), and the second inner-facing surface 105 (of the second swashplate 104) are arranged or calculated to cause the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 to rotate.

Referring to the cutaway view as depicted in FIG. 2, the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 may have substantially similar (if not identical) shapes and sizes and designs (configurations), and may be mounted symmetrically to each other about the shaft assembly 106, to allow counterbalancing as the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are made to rotate.

In the apparatus 100, the first inner-facing surface 103 (of the first swashplate 102) includes (provides or defines) the first guide path 108A (also called a crevice, a path, a radial path, a circular carved path, a curved path, a closed-loop path, etc.) for placing the first piston end 206 therein.

The second inner-facing surface 105 (of the second swashplate 104) includes (provides or defines) the second guide path 108B (also called a crevice, a path, a radial path, a circular carved path, a curved path, a closed-loop path, etc.) for placing the second piston end 208 therein.

The instances of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) may be distributed equal distances from each other along the first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B.

FIG. 3 depicts a perspective front view of an embodiment of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 (taken at a moment during motion).

FIG. 4 depicts a perspective back view of an embodiment of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1 (rotated 180 degrees along the longitudinal axis 107 from the view as depicted in FIG. 3 and at the same moment of motion as depicted in FIG. 3).

In accordance with the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) includes a first piston assembly 200, a second piston assembly 202 and a third piston assembly 204 that are spaced 120 degrees apart from each other along the first guide path 108A (provided by or formed in the first swashplate 102) and the second guide path 108B (provided by or formed in the second swashplate 104). It will be appreciated that the term “piston” and the term “cylinder” may be used interchangeably. The first piston assembly 200 may be called a first cylinder. The second piston assembly 202 may be called a second cylinder. The third piston assembly 204 may be called a third cylinder. The first piston assembly 200, the second piston assembly 202 and the third piston assembly 204 may be collectively referred to as the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204). Although swashplates may vary in size, shape and material, it is preferable that swashplates comprising the same device are similar in size, shape and material. As shown in FIG. 3, each the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 may have the lowest point or the narrowest point and the highest point or the widest point along their circular paths (that is, the first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B).

In accordance with the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, both the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 are affixed (connected) along the shaft assembly 106 (and are spaced apart from each other). This is done in such a way that a lowest point at the first swashplate 102 and a highest point at the second swashplate 104 are aligned in a straight line extending parallel to the shaft assembly 106. This arrangement assures (for some embodiments) that there is the same distance between any two points in a straight line parallel extending relative to the shaft assembly 106 on the circular paths (first guide path 108A and second guide path 108B) carved on (provided by or formed on) the swashplates (102, 104). The swashplates (102, 104) may be called spaced-apart swashplates.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 3, as the first swashplate 102 rotates counterclockwise, the first piston end 206 (of the second piston assembly 202) slides (moves) along the first guide path 108A, and the second piston assembly 202 extends and pushes the second piston end 208 against the second swashplate 104 (as the second piston end 208 moves along the second guide path 108B). This arrangement (motion) is configured to generate a torque of sufficient magnitude to urge rotation of the shaft assembly 106 in a counterclockwise direction (that is, the direction of the arrow sign as depicted) until the first piston end 206 of the second piston assembly 202 reaches the lowest point or the narrowest point of the first swashplate 102 (along the first guide path 108A). At this point (in time and/or position), a sensor (known and not depicted) is configured to trigger the second piston assembly 202 to start retracting until the first piston end 206 (of the second piston assembly 202) reaches the highest point (the widest point) of the first swashplate 102 along the first guide path 108A. At this point, the second piston assembly 202 may be triggered again to extend and push the first piston end 206 against the first swashplate 102, thus (again) generating a torque along the counterclockwise direction (as depicted by the direction of the arrow sign). As the first piston end 206 (of the second piston assembly 202) moves along the first guide path 108A towards the highest point or the widest point of the first swashplate 102, the second piston assembly 202 may also extend and slide along the second guide path 108B (of the second swashplate 104) with the second piston end 208 (of the second piston assembly 202 as depicted in FIG. 4) pushing against the second swashplate 104. This is done in such a way that a torque is generated and applied to the shaft assembly 106 in the same counterclockwise direction that was previously applied against the first swashplate 102. In this manner, a turn-by-turn extension of the first piston end 206 and the second piston end 208 (of the second piston assembly 202) in each opposite direction causes rotational motion to be generated (and to be applied to the shaft assembly 106). This is done in such a manner that the shaft assembly 106 rotates 180 degrees in each turn, with two turns together producing a continuous 360-degree rotational motion of the shaft assembly 106. It will be appreciated that multiple cylinders (piston assemblies) may work (cooperate) together with coordinated motion, with the number of cylinders varying according to a specific embodiment (such as, the first piston assembly 200, the second piston assembly 202 and the third piston assembly 204 as depicted in FIG. 3).

In accordance with the embodiments as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the first piston assembly 200, the second piston assembly 202 and the third piston assembly 204 may provide coordinated pushing, extending, and retracting at three separate points 120 degrees apart from each other along the instances of the first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B. It will be appreciated that the overlapping forces along the circular routes (that is, the first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B) on the swashplates (102, 104) may strengthen and smoothen the rotational motion of the shaft assembly 106.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the triggering of extending the respective ends of the first piston assembly 200, the second piston assembly 202 and the third piston assembly 204 against either the first swashplate 102 and/or the second swashplate 104 may be in a strategic predetermined manner or pattern.

FIG. 5 depicts a schematic view of embodiments of a first guide path 108A provided by the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1.

More specifically, in accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 5, the triggering of extending the respective ends of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) against either the first swashplate 102 and/or the second swashplate 104 may be in a strategic predetermined manner or pattern.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of the first guide path 108A (depicted schematically as three circular paths), each with a set of line types, such as an inner circle 310 having inner dashed and solid lines, an intermediate circle 312 having dashed and solid lines, and an outer circle 314 having outer dashed and solid lines.

The inner circle 310, the intermediate circle 312 and the outer circle 314 represent the points along the first guide path 108A and/or the second guide path 108B of each of the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 (respectively), in which each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) begins to push in an opposite direction against an opposite swashplate. The inner circle 310 is associated with the first piston assembly 200. The intermediate circle 312 is associated with the second piston assembly 202. The outer circle 314 is associated with the third piston assembly 204.

For example, the inner dashed line of the inner circle 310, the inner dashed line of the intermediate circle 312 and the inner dashed line of the outer circle 314 may represent the paths where the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) push and slip against the first swashplate 102, while the dashed lines may indicate where each of the piston assemblies (cylinders) retracts force against the first swashplate 102 and starts pushing against the second swashplate 104 (the opposite swashplate) and sliding against the second guide path 108B of the second swashplate 104.

Although in FIG. 5 the inner circle 310, the intermediate circle 312 and the outer circle 314 (also called circular paths) are shown with different diameters, this is solely for purposes of illustration, and in reality the circular paths have the same circular diameter (that is, the same closed-circuit outline).

In one embodiment, the point at which a piston assembly (a cylinder) begins to apply force against the second swashplate 104 may be at a point 180 degrees from where the cylinder applied force in the opposite direction against the first swashplate 102.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 5, the two points on each circle where two half circles of different line types join to complete one circle represent the lowest point (the narrowest point) and the highest point (the widest point) on the first swashplate 102 (or the second swashplate 104). Suppose in FIG. 5 that the first piston assembly 200 (cylinder A) pushing against the first swashplate 102 is represented by the dashed line of the inner circle 310, so that the first piston assembly 200 (cylinder A) starts pushing against the first swashplate 102 at the highest or widest point where the dashed line of the inner circle 310 starts (moving counterclockwise). Consequently, the first swashplate 102 may rotate until the first piston assembly 200 (cylinder A) reaches the lowest or narrowest point, where the first piston assembly 200 may begin retracting away from the first swashplate 102 (as represented by dashed lines). At the same time, when the first piston assembly 200 (cylinder A) may be retracting away from the first swashplate 102, the second swashplate 104 (also called the oppositely-situated swashplate) may experience similar forces that the first swashplate 102 experienced 180 degrees earlier in the rotation, which may assist in rotating the central axle in the desired radial direction. In this manner, the reciprocal movement of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) (also called cylinders) between the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 may be converted to rotational motion of the shaft assembly 106, connecting the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104.

The apparatus 100 and method of operating the apparatus 100 (described herein) may have a variety of applications and embodiments suited to particular applications. For example, in an application involving a fluid-powered motor, an embodiment may incorporate a particular pattern, timing, sequence of movement of the cylinders (pistons) back and forth, and reciprocating motion, which sequence may be different from that in an application involving a fluid compressor or pump. In an application where the shaft assembly 106 of this mechanism is rotated by a power source such as a combustion engine or an electric motor, etc., cylinders (pistons) may compress and generate fluid flow, which may allow additional varied tasks to be performed.

FIG. 6 depicts a close-up side view of an embodiment of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 6, each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) includes a ball at the first piston end 206 and the second piston end 208 of each of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204). The ball is configured for placement against the first swashplate 102 and/or the second swashplate 104.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 6, instead of a solid stationary end bearing that slides against the first guide path 108A (or other part of the swashplate surface), a free-moving lubricated ball in a solid cavity is configured to rotate and roll along the first guide path 108A (or the swashplate surface) with a nominal friction force, which might increase efficiency.

FIG. 7 depicts a side view of an embodiment of the apparatus 100 of FIG. 1.

In accordance with the embodiment as depicted in FIG. 7, the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) include a stacked set of piston assemblies (cylinders). Specifically, the apparatus 100 further includes a third swashplate 112. The shaft assembly 106 is fixedly attached to the third swashplate 112. This is done in such a way that the first swashplate 102, the second swashplate 104 and the third swashplate 112 are spaced apart from each other. The third swashplate 112 extends radially from the shaft assembly 106. The third swashplate 112 provides a third guide path (similar to the first guide path 108A and the second guide path 108B, as depicted in FIG. 2).

The housing assembly 110 further includes a third housing piece 110C and a fourth housing piece 110D. The third housing piece 110C is spaced apart from the second housing piece 110B. The fourth housing piece 110D is spaced apart from the third housing piece 110C.

The piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) further include a fourth piston assembly 220, a fifth piston assembly 222 and a sixth piston assembly 224. The fourth piston assembly 220, the fifth piston assembly 222 and the sixth piston assembly 224 extend between the second swashplate 104 and the third swashplate 112. The fourth piston assembly 220, the fifth piston assembly 222 and the sixth piston assembly 224 interact with the second swashplate 104 and the third swashplate 112, in a way that is similar to the way that the third piston assembly 204 interacts with the first inner-facing surface 103 and the first swashplate 102 and the second swashplate 104 (as described above).

In view of the foregoing, there is described a fluid-powered (compressed air), double swashplate motor mechanism with the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) (such as, at least two double rod cylinders, reciprocating parallel to the shaft assembly 106, between the swashplates (102, 104)). Both of the swashplates (102, 104) are similar in shape and size but are fixed on the shaft assembly 106 facing opposite to each other rotated at 180 degrees from each other.

Specifically, the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) include three double rod pneumatic powered cylinders configured to reciprocate parallel to the shaft assembly 106, between the swashplates (102, 104) in such a sequence that piston assemblies (cylinders) pushing against the swashplates (102, 104) in either direction generate rotational force in the same direction at shaft assembly 106. As each instance of the piston assemblies (200, 202, 204) (also called, cylinders) generates rotational force while moving linearly in either direction, a rotational force with minimum pulsation is generated. Increasing the number of cylinders (piston assemblies) in a circle could increase torque in a small size motor. The apparatus 100 provides a relatively simpler design that may generate relatively higher torque with relatively higher volumetric and overall efficiency. The apparatus 100 may also be used to manufacture small sized but powerful air compressors.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

It may be appreciated that the assemblies and modules described above may be connected with each other as required to perform desired functions and tasks within the scope of persons of skill in the art to make such combinations and permutations without having to describe each and every one in explicit terms. There is no particular assembly or component that may be superior to any of the equivalents available to the person skilled in the art. There is no particular mode of practicing the disclosed subject matter that is superior to others, so long as the functions may be performed. It is believed that all the crucial aspects of the disclosed subject matter have been provided in this document. It is understood that the scope of the present invention is limited to the scope provided by the independent claim(s), and it is also understood that the scope of the present invention is not limited to: (i) the dependent claims, (ii) the detailed description of the non-limiting embodiments, (iii) the summary, (iv) the abstract, and/or (v) the description provided outside of this document (that is, outside of the instant application as filed, as prosecuted, and/or as granted). It is understood, for this document, that the phrase “includes” is equivalent to the word “comprising.” The foregoing has outlined the non-limiting embodiments (examples). The description is made for particular non-limiting embodiments (examples). It is understood that the non-limiting embodiments are merely illustrative as examples.

Claims

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a shaft assembly;

swashplates being fixed on the shaft assembly facing opposite to each other; and

at least two double rod cylinders being configured to reciprocate parallel to the shaft assembly between the swashplates, and the at least two double rod cylinders being configured to push against the swashplates in either direction in such a way that the at least two double rod cylinders generate rotational force in the same direction at the shaft assembly.

2. An apparatus, comprising:

a shaft assembly having a longitudinal axis extending along a length thereof;

a first swashplate providing a first inner-facing surface being oriented non-orthogonally relative to the shaft assembly, and the shaft assembly being fixedly attached to the first swashplate, and the first swashplate extending radially from the shaft assembly;

a second swashplate providing a second inner-facing surface, the shaft assembly being fixedly attached to the second swashplate, the first inner-facing surface being spaced apart from the second inner-facing surface, the first inner-facing surface and the second inner-facing surface facing each other, and the second inner-facing surface is oriented non-orthogonally relative to the shaft assembly, and the second swashplate extending radially from the shaft assembly, and the second swashplate being spaced apart from the first swashplate;

a housing assembly including a first housing piece and a second housing piece, the second housing piece being spaced apart from the first housing piece, the first housing piece and the second housing piece being rotatably mounted to the shaft assembly, and the first housing piece and the second housing piece being fixed in position relative to each other; and

at least two piston assemblies, each of the at least two piston assemblies being positioned radially spaced apart from the shaft assembly, the at least two piston assemblies extend between the first housing piece and the second housing piece, and the at least two piston assemblies being fixedly attached to the first housing piece and the second housing piece.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

each of the at least two piston assemblies extending parallel to the shaft assembly;

the at least two piston assemblies being positioned symmetrically around the shaft assembly; and

the at least two piston assemblies being evenly positioned around the shaft assembly.

4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the at least two piston assemblies include three instances of a piston assembly spaced apart from each other radially and symmetrically across opposite sides of the shaft assembly.

5. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

the at least two piston assemblies includes two instances of a piston assembly spaced apart from each other radially across opposite sides of the shaft assembly.

6. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

each of the at least two piston assemblies has a first piston end and a second piston end that is spaced apart from the first piston end;

the first piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies is configured to interact with the first swashplate; and

the second piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies is configured to interact with the second swashplate.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein:

for a case where a rotational force is applied to the shaft assembly so that the shaft assembly is made to rotate, the first swashplate and the second swashplate are made to rotate;

as the first inner-facing surface is made to rotate, the first inner-facing surface, in use, urges the first piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies to reciprocate;

as the second inner-facing surface is made to rotate, the first inner-facing surface, in use, urges the second piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies to reciprocate;

the at least two piston assemblies are urged to force flow of a piston fluid.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein:

for a case where a linear force is applied via piston fluid flow through the at least two piston assemblies, the first piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies is forced to reciprocate, and the second piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies is forced to reciprocate;

forced movement of the first piston end causes the first inner-facing surface to be rotated thereby urging the first swashplate to be rotated;

forced movement of the second piston end causes the second inner-facing surface to be rotated, thereby urging the second swashplate to be rotated;

the shaft assembly is urged to rotate as a result of the first swashplate and the second swashplate that are made to be rotated by reciprocating movement of the first piston end and the second piston end.

9. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein:

the first swashplate provides a first guide path formed on the first inner-facing surface;

the second swashplate provides a second guide path formed on the second inner-facing surface;

the first guide path and the second guide path are coaxially aligned relative to each other; and

the first guide path and the second guide path extend in a closed loop circuit aligned around the shaft assembly.

10. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:

a first radial bearing is axially mounted to the shaft assembly, and the first housing piece fixedly radially extends from a radial bearing;

a second radial bearing is axially mounted to the shaft assembly, and the second housing piece fixedly radially extends from the second radial bearing; and

the first radial bearing and the second radial bearing is axially mounted to a thrust bearing that is axially mounted to the shaft assembly.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein:

each of the at least two piston assemblies provides: an input fluid port; and an output fluid port being spaced apart from the input fluid port; an interior fluid chamber extending between the input fluid port and the output fluid port; a movable piston being operatively received in the interior fluid chamber, and the movable piston being configured to be movable relative to the interior fluid chamber, and the movable piston being reciprocally movable along a longitudinal length of the interior fluid chamber in response to movement of fluid through the interior fluid chamber; a first piston shaft extending from the movable piston toward the first swashplate, and the first piston end being mounted to an end portion of the first piston shaft, and the first piston end is engagable with the first guide path A; and a second piston shaft extending from the movable piston toward the second swashplate, and the second piston end being mounted to an end portion of the second piston shaft, and the second piston end is engagable with the second guide path.

12. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein:

the first piston end substantially fits against the first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate; and

the second piston end substantially fits against the second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, further comprising:

a first guide path being provided by the first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate, and the first guide path configured to place the first piston end therein; and

a second guide path being provided by the second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate, and the second guide path being configured to place the second piston end therein.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the at least two piston assemblies, in use, reciprocate, and in combination with the first piston end and the second piston end, the first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate, and the second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate cause the first swashplate and the second swashplate to rotate.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the first swashplate and the second swashplate are mounted symmetrically to each other about the shaft assembly in such a way that the first swashplate and the second swashplate allow counterbalancing as the first swashplate and the second swashplate are made to rotate.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the at least two piston assemblies include: a first piston assembly, a second piston assembly and a third piston assembly being spaced apart from each other along a radial carved in the first swashplate and the second swashplate.

17. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

the first swashplate and the second swashplate are fixed along the shaft assembly in such a way that a lowest point at the first swashplate and a highest point at the second swashplate are in a straight line parallel to the shaft assembly in such a way that there is the same distance between any two points in the straight line parallel to the shaft assembly.

18. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein:

each of the at least two piston assemblies includes a ball at the first piston end and the second piston end of each of the at least two piston assemblies; and

the ball is configured for placement against the first swashplate and the second swashplate.

19. An apparatus, comprising:

a first swashplate having a first inner-facing surface;

a second swashplate having a second inner-facing surface, and the second swashplate being spaced apart from the first swashplate;

a shaft assembly connecting the first swashplate to the second swashplate in such a way that the first inner-facing surface, in use, substantially faces the second inner-facing surface, and the first swashplate and the second swashplate being mounted to the shaft assembly in such a way that the first inner-facing surface and the second inner-facing surface are both oblique to the shaft assembly;

said shaft assembly being rotatable in such a way that the first swashplate and the second swashplate connected thereto also rotate;

the first swashplate and the second swashplate being rotatable so that the shaft assembly connected thereto also rotates; and

at least two piston assemblies being aligned parallel to the shaft assembly; and

a housing assembly configured to hold the shaft assembly and said at least two piston assemblies together as one unit;

each said at least two piston assemblies having a first piston end and a second piston end;

the first piston end being configured to substantially fit against the first inner-facing surface of the first swashplate;

the second piston end being configured to substantially fit against the second inner-facing surface of the second swashplate; and

said at least two piston assemblies being fitted against the first swashplate and the second swashplate in such a way that: the first swashplate and the second swashplate are rotatable as said at least two piston assemblies, in use, reciprocate; and said at least two piston assemblies are reciprocable as the first swashplate and the second swashplate rotate.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein:

said at least two piston assemblies are configured to reciprocate in a sequence so that the first piston end and the second piston end of said at least two piston assemblies fitted against the first swashplate and the second swashplate cause the first swashplate and the second swashplate to rotate, which, in turn, causes the shaft assembly to rotate.