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Title:
INTEGRATED ECCENTRIC MOTOR AND PUMP ASSEMBLY
Document Type and Number:
WIPO Patent Application WO/2019/221878
Kind Code:
A1
Abstract:
A pump, including: inner gerotor; a crankshaft; an outer gerotor; an inlet assembly with inlet ports; an outlet assembly with outlet ports; and magnetic actuators. The inner gerotor includes lobes and a central opening. The crankshaft: passes through the central opening; is rotatable about an axis of rotation; and includes a first longitudinal axis not co-linear with the axis of rotation. The outer gerotor includes recesses. The magnetic actuators are sequentially energized to create magnetic fields to displace the inner gerotor with respect to the crankshaft to: displace a first lobe out of a first recess and draw fluid through an inlet port into the first recess; and displace a second lobe into a second recess and expel second fluid out of the second recess and through an outlet port.

Inventors:
PEET BRIAN (US)
Application Number:
PCT/US2019/028468
Publication Date:
November 21, 2019
Filing Date:
April 22, 2019
Export Citation:
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Assignee:
SCHAEFFLER TECHNOLOGIES AG (DE)
SCHAEFFLER GROUP USA INC (US)
International Classes:
F04C2/10; F04C15/00
Domestic Patent References:
WO2008046005A22008-04-17
Foreign References:
US20060039815A12006-02-23
US3873248A1975-03-25
KR20140106581A2014-09-03
US5145329A1992-09-08
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
MALISZEWSKI, Chester (US)
Download PDF:
Claims:
CLAIMS

1. A pump, comprising:

an inner gerotor including a plurality of lobes and a central opening;

a crankshaft passing through the central opening, rotatable about an axis of rotation, and including a first longitudinal axis not co-linear with the axis of rotation;

an outer gerotor located radially outwardly of the inner gerotor and including a plurality of recesses;

an inlet cover assembly including a plurality of inlet ports;

an outlet cover assembly including a plurality of outlet ports; and,

a plurality of magnetic actuators, wherein the plurality of magnetic actuators is arranged to be energized in sequence to create magnetic fields; wherein the magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor with respect to the axis of rotation to displace a first lobe, included in the plurality of lobes, out of a first recess, included in the plurality of recesses, and draw first fluid through a first inlet port, included in the plurality of inlet ports, into the first recess, and to displace a second lobe, included in the plurality of lobes, into a second recess, included in the plurality of recesses, and expel second fluid out of the second recess and through a first outlet port included in the plurality of outlet ports.

2. The pump of claim 1, wherein the sequence is in a first circumferential direction, the magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor, with respect to the axis of rotation, in a second circumferential direction opposite the first circumferential direction, and the displacement of the inner gerotor is arranged to rotate the crankshaft, with respect to the inner gerotor, in the first circumferential direction; or wherein the sequence is in a first circumferential direction, the magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor with respect to the axis of rotation in a second circumferential direction opposite the first circumferential direction and at least one radial direction, and the displacement of the inner gerotor is arranged to rotate the crankshaft, with respect to the inner gerotor, in the first circumferential direction.

3. The pump of claim 1, wherein the central opening of the inner gerotor is bounded by an inner surface of the inner gerotor, and the crankshaft includes a cylindrical outer surface, the pump further comprising:

at least one bearing disposed between the inner surface and the cylindrical outer surface.

4. The pump of claim 1, further comprising:

an inlet shutter plate non-rotatably connected to the crankshaft and axially disposed between the inner gerotor and the inlet cover assembly; and,

an outlet shutter plate non-rotatably connected to the crankshaft, axially disposed between the inner gerotor and the outlet cover assembly, and axially overlapping the inlet shutter, wherein the plurality of inlet ports is at a radial distance from the axis of rotation, and a line, parallel to the axis of rotation, passes through the inlet shutter plate and the outlet shutter plate at the radial distance from the axis of rotation.

5. The pump of claim 1, wherein each magnetic actuator included in the plurality of magnetic actuators includes a respective magnetic core, separate from the outer gerotor and fixedly connected to the outer gerotor, and a respective winding disposed about the respective core.

6. The pump of claim 1, wherein the plurality of magnetic actuators includes a first magnetic actuator and a second magnetic actuator circumferentially bracketing the second recess, the first magnetic actuator and the second magnetic actuator are arranged to be simultaneously energized to generate a first magnetic field passing through the second recess, and the first magnetic field is arranged to displace the first lobe out of the first recess and displace the second lobe into the second recess.

7. The pump of claim 6, wherein the first magnetic field is arranged to displace the second lobe into the second recess; or wherein the plurality of lobes includes a third lobe, the plurality of recesses includes a third recess, the plurality of magnetic actuators includes a third magnetic actuator, the second magnetic actuator and the third magnetic actuator circumferentially bracket the third recess, the second magnetic actuator and the third magnetic actuator are arranged to be simultaneously energized to generate a second magnetic field passing through the third recess, and the second magnetic field is arranged to rotate the third lobe into the third recess to expel the fluid from the third recess and through a second outlet port, included in the plurality of outlet ports, into the third recess and displace the second lobe out of the second recess and draw the fluid into the second recess through a second inlet port included in the plurality of inlet ports.

8. The pump of claim 6, wherein the outer gerotor includes a slot extending past the plurality of magnetic actuators in first and second opposite axial directions, circumferentially disposed between the first magnetic actuator and the second magnetic actuator, and arranged to prevent the first magnetic field from passing through the outer gerotor.

9. The pump of claim 6, further comprising:

an annular outer ring radially disposed about the plurality of magnetic actuators and constructed of a magnetic material, wherein the first magnetic field passes through the annular outer ring, the second recess, and the second lobe.

10. The pump of claim 1, wherein the outlet cover assembly bounds, at least in part, an outlet chamber, the plurality of outlet ports opens to the outlet chamber, and the outlet cover assembly includes a pressure relief valve open to the outlet chamber and an exterior of the outlet cover assembly.

Description:
INTEGRATED ECCENTRIC MOTOR AND PUMP ASSEMBLY

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an integrated eccentric motor and pump with a separate crankshaft passing through an eccentric inner gerotor and rotatable with respect to the inner gerotor. The integrated eccentric motor and pump includes modular magnetic actuators and axially overlapping input and output shutter plates fixed to the crankshaft.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Commonly owned U.S. Patent Application Publication 2017/0328362 describes an integrated eccentric motor and pump with: a rotor including radially outwardly extending protrusions; an inlet guide fixed to the rotor; an outlet guide fixed to the rotor; and a stator with spaces and integral electrical windings radially aligned with the spaces. An axis of rotation for the rotor is not co-linear with a longitudinal axis for the outer gerotor. For each space, a single electrical winding is energized to draw a protrusion into the space, rotating the rotor eccentrically (with respect to the stator). The rotation of the rotor causes the protrusions to displace out of and into the spaces, drawing fluid into and expelling the fluid from the spaces, respectively.

[0003] The inlet and outlet guides are centered about the axis of rotation, rather than about the longitudinal axis. Therefore, the eccentric rotation of the rotor causes the radially outward circumference of the inlet guide and/or the outlet guide to engage the stator with a normal force, resulting in a locking-load condition that can jam the inlet guide and/or the outlet guide against the stator, blocking rotation of the rotor. Further: it is difficult to assemble the integral electrical windings; and the spaces are not fully sealed, enabling fluid from the pump to bathe the windings. Also, there is no restriction to the physical travel path of the rotor, enabling the rotor to unpredictably react to magnetic or shock load to the pump.

SUMMARY

[0004] According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a pump, including: an inner gerotor; a crankshaft; an outer gerotor; an inlet cover assembly; an outlet cover assembly; and magnetic actuators. The inner gerotor includes: a plurality of lobes and a central opening. The crankshaft: passes through the central opening; is rotatable about an axis of rotation; and includes a first longitudinal axis not co-linear with the axis of rotation. The outer gerotor is located radially outwardly of the inner gerotor and includes a plurality of recesses. The inlet cover assembly including a plurality of inlet ports. The outlet cover assembly includes a plurality of outlet ports. The plurality of magnetic actuators is arranged to be energized in sequence to create magnetic fields. The magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor with respect to the axis of rotation: to displace a first lobe, included in the plurality of lobes, out of a first recess, included in the plurality of recesses, and draw first fluid through a first inlet port, included in the plurality of inlet ports, into the first recess; and to displace a second lobe, included in the plurality of lobes, into a second recess, included in the plurality of recesses, and expel second fluid out of the second recess and through a first outlet port included in the plurality of outlet ports.

[0005] According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a pump, including: an inner gerotor; a cylindrical crankshaft; an outer gerotor; an inlet cover assembly; an outlet cover assembly; and magnetic actuators. The outer gerotor includes a plurality of recesses and a first longitudinal axis. The inner gerotor is located radially inwardly of the outer gerotor and includes: a plurality of lobes; a cylindrically-shaped central opening; and a radially inner surface radially bounding the central opening. The crankshaft passes through the central opening and includes: an axis of rotation co-linear with the first longitudinal axis; and a second longitudinal axis not co-linear withthe axis of rotation. The inlet cover assembly includes a plurality of inlet ports. The outlet cover assembly includes a plurality of outlet ports. The magnetic actuators are circumferentially disposed about the outer gerotor. Each magnetic actuator included in the plurality of magnetic actuators includes: a respective magnetic core, separate from the outer gerotor and fixedly connected to the outer gerotor; and a respective winding disposed about the respective core. The magnetic actuators are arranged to be energized in sequence to create magnetic fields. The magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor, with respect to the axis of rotation, to displace the plurality of lobes: out of the plurality of recesses, to draw fluid through the plurality of inlet ports, into the plurality of recesses; and into the plurality of recesses to expel the fluid out of the plurality of recesses and through the plurality of outlet ports.

[0006] According to aspects illustrated herein, there is provided a pump, including: an inner gerotor; a cylindrical crankshaft; an outer gerotor; an inlet shutter plate; an inlet cover assembly; an outlet shutter plate; an outlet cover assembly; and magnetic actuators. The inner gerotor includes: a plurality of lobes; and a central opening. The cylindrical crankshaft: includes an axis of rotation; and passes through the central opening. The outer gerotor is located radially outwardly of the inner gerotor and includes a plurality of recesses. The inlet cover assembly includes a plurality of inlet ports. The outlet cover assembly includes a plurality of outlet ports. The magnetic actuators are circumferentially disposed about the outer gerotor. The inlet shutter plate: is non-rotatably connected to the crankshaft; and axially disposed between the inner gerotor and the inlet cover assembly. The outlet shutter plate: is non-rotatably connected to a second axial end of the crankshaft; and is axially disposed between the inner gerotor and the outlet cover assembly. The magnetic actuators are arranged to be energized in sequence to create magnetic fields. The magnetic fields are arranged to displace the inner gerotor, with respect to the axis of rotation, to displace the plurality lobes out of the plurality of recesses, to draw fluid through the plurality of inlet ports, into the plurality of recesses; and into the plurality of recesses to expel the fluid out of the plurality of recesses and through the plurality of outlet ports. The plurality of inlet ports is at a radial distance from the axis of rotation. A line, parallel to the axis of rotation, passes through inlet shutter plate and the outlet shutter plate at the radial distance from the axis of rotation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Various embodiments are disclosed, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, in which:

Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an integrated eccentric motor and pump;

Figure 2 is a front view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in

Figure 1; Figure 3 is a front exploded view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a back exploded view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in Figure 1;

Figure 5 is a front exploded view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a back exploded view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in Figure 1;

Figure 7 is a side view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump shown in

Figure 1;

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 8-8 in Figure 7;

Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 9-9 in Figure 7;

Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 10-10 in Figure 2;

Figure 11A is a cross-sectional view generally along line 11A/B-11A/B in Figure 7; Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view generally along line 11A/B-11A/B in Figure 7; and

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a cylindrical coordinate system demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present application;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or functionally similar, structural elements of the disclosure. It is to be understood that the disclosure as claimed is not limited to the disclosed aspects.

[0009] Furthermore, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular methodology, materials and modifications described and as such may, of course, vary. It is also understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0010] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It should be understood that any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosure.

[0011] Figure 12 is a perspective view of cylindrical coordinate system 10 demonstrating spatial terminology used in the present application. The present application is at least partially described within the context of a cylindrical coordinate system. System 10 includes axis of rotation, or longitudinal axis, 11, used as the reference for the directional and spatial terms that follow. Opposite axial directions ADI and AD2 are parallel to axis 11. Radial direction RD1 is orthogonal to axis 11 and away from axis 11. Radial direction RD2 is orthogonal to axis 11 and toward axis 11. Opposite circumferential directions CD1 and CD2 are defined by an endpoint of a particular radius R (orthogonal to axis 11) rotated about axis 11, for example clockwise and counterclockwise, respectively.

[0012] To clarify the spatial terminology, objects 12, 13, and 14 are used. As an example, an axial surface, such as surface 15A of object 12, is formed by a plane co-planar with axis 11. However, any planar surface parallel to axis 11 is an axial surface. For example, surface 15B, parallel to axis 11 also is an axial surface. An axial edge is formed by an edge, such as edge 15C, parallel to axis 11. A radial surface, such as surface 16A of object 13, is formed by a plane orthogonal to axis 11 and co-planar with a radius, for example, radius 17A. A radial edge is co- linear with a radius of axis 11. For example, edge 16B is co-linear with radius 17B. Surface 18 of object 14 forms a circumferential, or cylindrical, surface. For example, circumference 19, defined by radius 20, passes through surface 18.

[0013] Axial movement is in axial direction ADI or AD2. Radial movement is in radial direction RD1 or RD2. Circumferential, or rotational, movement is in circumferential direction CD1 or CD2. The adverbs "axially," "radially," and "circumferentially" refer to movement or orientation parallel to axis 11, orthogonal to axis 11, and about axis 11, respectively. For example, an axially disposed surface or edge extends in direction ADI, a radially disposed surface or edge extends in direction RD1, and a circumferentially disposed surface or edge extends in direction CD1.

[0014] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100. [0015] Figure 2 is a front view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in

Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 3 is a front exploded view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 4 is a back exploded view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 5 is a front exploded view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0019] Figure 6 is a back exploded view of the integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in Figure 1.

[0020] Figure 7 is a side view of integrated eccentric motor and pump 100 shown in

Figure 1.

[0021] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 8-8 in Figure 7.

[0022] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 9-9 in Figure 7.

[0023] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view generally along line 10-10 in Figure 2. The following should be viewed in light of Figures 1 through 10. Assembly 100 includes: cylindrical crankshaft 102; inner gerotor 104 with central opening 105; outer gerotor 106; inlet cover assembly 108 with inlet ports 110, for example inlet ports 110A-110F; outlet cover assembly 112 with outlet ports 114, for example outlet ports 114A-114F; modular magnetic actuators 116; outer ring 118 radially disposed about actuators 116; inlet shutter plate 120 non-rotatably connected to crankshaft 102; and outlet shutter plate 122 non-rotatably connected to crankshaft 102. Inner gerotor 104, outer gerotor 106, and ring 118 are constructed of magnetic material, for example pure iron or iron alloys. By "non-rotatably connected" components, we mean that: the components are connected so that whenever one of the components rotates, all the components rotate; and relative rotation between the components is not possible. Radial and/or axial movement of non-rotatably connected components with respect to each other is possible, but not required. In general, a reference character “[digit] [digit] [digit] [letter]" designates a specific example of an element labeled as “[digit] [digit] [digit] For example, lobe 114A is a specific example from among outlet ports 114. In Figures 1 through 6, 8, and 9, end plate 121 has been intentionally omitted.

[0024] Crankshaft 102 passes through central opening 105 and is rotatable with respect to inner gerotor 104. Inner gerotor 104 is radially disposed between crankshaft 102 and outer gerotor 106. Inner gerotor 104 includes lobes 124, for example lobes 124A-124E and recesses 126. Each recess 126 is circumferentially located between a respective pair of lobes 124 from among 124A-124E. Outer gerotor 106 includes lobes 128 and recesses 130, for example recesses 130A-130F. Each recess 130 from among recesses 130A-130F is circumferentially located between a respective pair of lobes 128. In the example of Figures 1 through 6, the number of lobes 124 is different from the number of recesses 130, for example, inner gerotor 104 includes five lobes 124 and outer gerotor includes six recesses 130. In an example embodiment, the number of lobes 124 is one less than the number of recesses 130.

[0025] As further described below, actuators 116 are arranged to be energized in sequence to create magnetic fields 131. Magnetic fields 131 are arranged to displace inner gerotor 104 with respect to axis of rotation AR to displace lobes 124: out of recesses 130 and draw fluid F through inlet ports 110 into the recesses 130; and into recesses 130 to expel fluid F out of the recesses 130 and through outlet ports 114. Actuators 116 can be energized by any means known in the art. For example, a computer for a vehicle housing pump 100 can be programmed to provide the sequential energizing using a power source for the vehicle.

[0026] In the example of Figure 1: shaft 102 includes axis of rotation AR; shaft 102 and inner gerotor 104 include longitudinal axis LAI; and outer gerotor 106 includes longitudinal axis LA2. Shaft 102 and inner gerotor 104 are centered about axis LAI. Axis LAI is referenced with respect to, or centered with respect to, cylindrical outer surface 132 of crankshaft 102 and radially inner surface 133 of inner gerotor 104. For example, surface 132 is at a same, or uniform, radial distance 134 from axis LAI. Longitudinal axis LA2 is referenced with respect to, or radially centered with respect to, radially outer surface 135 of outer gerotor 106. Axis AR and LA2 are co-linear. Axis LAI is not co-linear with axis AR or axis LA2. For example, radial distance 136 from axis AR to surface 132 is not uniform. Thus, crankshaft 102 rotates eccentrically about axis AR. [0027] In the example of Figure 1: central opening 105 is bounded by radially inner surface 137 of inner gerotor 104; and pump 100 includes at least one bearing 138 disposed between and in contact with outer surface 134 and inner surface 137. Pump 100 includes bearings BR. A respective bearing BR is disposed in each of inlet cover assembly 108 and outlet cover assembly 112. Bearings 138 and BR enable rotation of crankshaft 102 with respect to inner gerotor 104.

[0028] Plates 120 and 122 rotate with crankshaft 102. Radially outer segment 139 of plate 120 is arranged to axially align with and block recesses 130 from inlet ports 110 to enable lobes 124 to expel fluid F from recesses 130 through outlet ports 114. Radially outer segment 140 of plate 122 is arranged to axially align with and block recesses 130 from outlet ports 114 to enable lobes 124 to draw fluid F into recesses 130 through inlet ports 110. Portions 139 and 140 axially overlap. The axial overlap of plates 120 and 122 is illustrated and further described in the discussion of Figures 11A and 11B below. Plates 120 and 122 are radially centered about axis AR.

[0029] Each magnetic actuator 116 includes: magnetic core 142, separate from outer gerotor 106 and fixedly connected to outer gerotor 106; and winding 144 disposed about core 142. In an example embodiment, each core 142 is fixed to gerotor 106 by a respective bolt 145. Cores 142 extend into pockets 146 in outer gerotor 106.

[0030] In an example embodiment, outer gerotor 106 includes slots 147. In an example embodiment, slots 147 extend past magnetic actuators 116 in axial direction AD-1 and axial direction AD-2, opposite axial direction AD-1. As further described below, magnetic fields 131 are generated by energizing circumferentially adjacent pairs of actuators 116. The magnetic fields 131 draw lobes 124A-124E into recesses 130A-130F to displace inner gerotor 104 eccentrically about axis AR. Slots 147 create air gaps forcing magnetic fields 131 across recesses 130A-130F and lobes 124A-124E, rather than by-passing recesses 130A-130F and flowing through outer gerotor 106.

[0031] In an example embodiment: inlet cover assembly 108 includes inlet nozzle 148; and outlet assembly 112 includes outlet nozzle 150. In an example embodiment, outlet cover assembly 112 includes pressure relief valve 152 and outlet chamber 154. In the example of Figure 1, chamber 154 is bounded by assembly 112 and end plate 121. Valve 152 is open to chamber 154 and exterior 156 of assembly 112. In an example embodiment, valve 152 includes through-bore 158, and spring 160 and cap 162 both disposed in through-bore 158. Spring 160 urges cap 162 in radial direction RD-1 to seal through-bore 158. When assembly 100 is installed in a system, for example in a transmission, chamber 154 is sealed, for example by O-ring 164, except for outlet 150 and ports 114. Valve 152 protects assembly 100 from an overpressure situation, for example if a blockage occurs downstream of outlet 150. For example, when fluid pressure in chamber 154 exceeds the force with which spring 160 urges cap 162 in direction RD-1, fluid F in chamber 154 displaces cap 162 in direction RD-2, opposite RD-1, to open through-bore 158 and enable fluid F to flow through through-bore 158 and out of chamber 154.

[0032] In an example embodiment, assembly 100 includes seal 166 radially disposed about outer gerotor 106 and including slots 168. Magnetic cores 142 extend through slots 168 into pockets 146 of outer gerotor 106. In an example embodiment, inlet cover assembly includes plates 170 and 172.

[0033] Figures 11A and 11B are cross-sectional views generally along line 11A/B-11A/B in Figure 7, illustrating operation of eccentric motor and pump assembly 100. The following should be viewed in light of Figures 1 through 11B and provides further detail regarding the structure and function of assembly 100. In Figures 11A and 11B: portions of inner gerotor 104 and outer gerotor 106 are covered by outlet shutter plate 122; and inner gerotor 104, outer gerotor 106, and outlet shutter plate 122 cover portions of inlet shutter plate 120 and inlet cover assembly 108. However, to illustrate the relative circumferential positions of inner gerotor 104 and inlet shutter plate 120: area A designates the segment of portion 139 not axially overlapping portion 140; area B designates the segment of portion 140 not axially overlapping portion 139; and areas C illustrate axially overlapping segments of portions 139 and 140.

[0034] As noted above, plates 120 and 122, in particular, respective segments of portions 139 and 140, axially overlap. For example: inlet ports 110 are at radial distance 174 from axis of rotation AR; and lines LI and L2, parallel to axis of rotation AR, passes inlet shutter plate 120 and outlet shutter plate 122 in areas C at radial distance 141 from axis of rotation AR. [0035] In Figures 11A and 11B: pairs of actuators 116 are being sequentially activated to eccentrically: displace inner gerotor 104 in circumferential direction CD-2, opposite direction CD-I, with respect to axis AR; and simultaneously, displace respective portions of inner gerotor 104 in opposite radial directions RD-1 and RD-2. Fluid F is drawn through one of inlet ports 110A-110F and into one of recesses 130A-130F when: shutter plate 120 is not blocking the one of inlet ports 110A-110F and the one of recesses 130A-130F; shutter plate 122 is blocking the one of recesses 130A-130F; and one of lobes 124A-124E displaces out of the one of recesses 130A-130F in direction CD-2, causing a vacuum in the one of recesses 130A-130F, which draws fluid F into the one of recesses 130A-130F.

[0036] Fluid F is expelled out of one of recesses 130A-130F and through one of outlet ports 114A-114F when: shutter plate 122 is not blocking the one of recesses 130A-130F or the one of outlet ports 114A-114F; shutter plate 120 is blocking the one of recesses 130A-130F; and one of lobes 124A-124E displaces into the one of recesses 130A-130F in direction CD-2, forcing fluid F out of the one of recesses 130A-130F and through the one of outlet ports 114A- 114F.

[0037] In Figure 11A, actuators 116A and 116B have been oppositely energized to create magnetic field 131A passing through recess 130A and ring 118. Note that magnetic field 131A is schematically shown in Figure 11A. Magnetic field 131A has drawn lobe 124A into recess 130A, displacing lobe 124A in directions RD-1 and CD-2. Note that lobe 124C has been displaced in directions RD-2 and CD-I. Drawing lobe 124A into recess 130A completes the expulsion of fluid F from recess 130A. The displacement of inner gerotor 104 has rotated crankshaft 102, input shutter plate 120, and output shutter plate 122 in direction CD-I such that: most of recess 130A is blocked by shutter plates 120 and 122; recess 130B is open to inlet port HOB and is blocked by shutter 122; lobe 124B has drawn fluid F into recess 130B; recess 130C is blocked by shutter plate 122, is open to inlet port 114C, and contains fluid F; most of recess 130D is blocked by plates 120 and 122 and contains fluid F; recess 130E is blocked by shutter plate 120, is open to outlet port 114E, and contains fluid F; and recess 130F is blocked by shutter plate 120, is open to outlet port 114F, and contains fluid F. [0038] In Figure 11B, actuators 116B and 116C have been oppositely energized to create magnetic field 131B passing through recess 130F and ring 118. Magnetic field 131B has drawn lobe 124E into recess 130F, displacing lobe 124E in directions RD-1 and CD-2. Note that lobe 124B has been displaced in directions RD-2 and CD-I. Drawing lobe 124E into recess 130F completes the expulsion of fluid F from recess 130F. The displacement of inner gerotor 104 has rotated crankshaft 102, input shutter plate 120, and output shutter plate 122 in direction CD-I such that: recess 130A is open to inlet port 110A and is blocked by output shutter 122; lobe 124A has drawn fluid F into recess 130A; recess 130B is open to inlet port HOB, is blocked by shutter 122, and contains fluid F; most of recess 130C is blocked by shutter plates 120 and 122 and contains fluid F; recesses 130D and 130E are open to outlet ports 114D and 114E, respectively, are blocked by inlet shutter plate 120, and contain fluid F; and most of recess 130F is blocked by shutter plates 120 and 122.

[0039] Once lobe 124E is fully disposed in recess 130F, the above sequence is continued. For example: magnetic actuators 116C and 116D are oppositely energized to create a magnetic field through recess 130E, drawing lobe 124D into recess 130E in directions RD-1 and CD-2; shutter plates 120 and 122 continue to rotate in direction; lobe 124D expels fluid F from recess 130E through outlet port 114E; and lobe 124E draws fluid F into recess 130F through inlet port 110F. In like manner, pairs of adjacent magnetic actuators 116 are oppositely energized to rotate gerotor 104 in direction CD2 while shutter plates 120 and 122 continue to rotate in direction CD- 1, providing a continuous cycle of recesses 130A-130F being filled with fluid F and fluid F being expelled from recesses 130A-130F.

[0040] The following provides further detail regarding the operation of pump 100. As noted above, the sequential energizing of circumferentially adjacent actuators 116 in direction CD-I displaces inner gerotor 104 in directions CD-2, RD-1 and RD-2. Thus, inner gerotor does not rotate about axis AR in a circular path in direction CD-I. Path of motion 176 for lobe 124C from recess 130C to recess 130D illustrates the eccentric displacement of inner gerotor 104. Path 176 includes motion in direction CD-I as well as motion in directions RD-1 and RD-2. Therefore, in the example of pump 100, the eccentric displacement of inner gerotor 104 rotates crankshaft 102 a full revolution about axis AR for every completion of a cycle by a lobe 124. Thus, in the time that inner gerotor 104 displaces 60 degrees (360 degrees divided by the number of recesses 130) as illustrated by path 176, crankshaft 102 completes a full rotation about axis AR.

[0041] The relative speeds of crankshaft 102 (and plates 120 and 122) and inner gerotor

104 result in an efficient timing for pump 100. For example: shutter plate 120 begins to rotate past an inlet port 110, which plate 120 had been blocking, to open the inlet port 110 as a lobe 124 begins to lift from a recess 130 axially aligned with the inlet port; and shutter plate 122 begins to rotate past an outlet port 114, which plate 122 had been blocking, to open the outlet port 114 as a lobe 124 begins to displace into a recess 130 axially aligned with the outlet port.

[0042] As noted above, for a known integrated eccentric motor and pump, the eccentric rotation of the rotor results in a normal force that can create a locking-load condition that can jam an inlet guide and/or an outlet guide against a stator, blocking rotation of the rotor. Pump 100 eliminates this problem by: by centering outer circumferences 177 and 178 of shutter plates 120 and 122, respectively, about axis AR and LAI (rather than about axis LA2) and driving plates 120 and 122 with bolts 180. Bolts 180 are proximate the inner diameters of plates 120 and 122 and fixedly attach plates 120 and 122 to crankshaft 102. Thus, the load forces associated with rotation of plates 120 and 122 are carried by bearings 140 and are resolved to purely tangential forces, instead of normal forces.

[0043] As noted above, for a known integrated eccentric motor and pump, a single electrical winding is energized to draw a protrusion into a space to rotate the rotor. However, pump 100 energizes two actuators 116 at a time to create a much stronger magnetic field 131 to draw lobes 124 into recesses 130. Thus, the operation of pump 100 is more robust and reliable.

[0044] As noted above, for a known integrated eccentric motor and pump, it is difficult to assemble the integral electrical windings, and the spaces are not fully sealed, enabling fluid from the pump to bathe the windings. However, magnetic actuators 116 for pump 100 are modular units separate from the outer gerotor. Thus, complicated wiring operations about the structure of the outer gerotor are eliminated. As well: cores 142 are housed in pockets 146, isolated from recesses 130; and seal 166 seals the radially outer ends of slots 147. Therefore, fluid F cannot reach actuators 116, preventing degradation of actuators 116 due to exposure to fluid F and increasing efficiency of pump 100 by reducing pressure loss through leakage of fluid F from recesses 130. Further, the modularity of actuators 116 enables the characteristics of magnetic fields 131 to be easily varied.

[0045] As noted above, for a known integrated eccentric motor and pump, there is no restriction to the physical travel path of the rotor, enabling the rotor to unpredictably react to magnetic or shock load to the pump. However, the presence of crankshaft 102 and bearings 140 more precisely define the motion path of inner gerotor 104, enabling smoother and more predictable operation. Pump 100 also includes pressure relief valve 152 in outlet cover assembly 112, which prevents an over-pressure condition at outlet ports 114 that could damage pump 100.

[0046] It will be appreciated that various of the above-disclosed and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be desirably combined into many other different systems or applications. Various presently unforeseen or unanticipated alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements therein may be subsequently made by those skilled in the art which are also intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

List of Reference Characters:

10 cylindrical system

11 axis of rotation

ADI axial direction

AD2 axial direction

RD1 radial direction

RD2 radial direction

CD1 circumferential direction

CD2 circumferential direction

R radius

12 object

13 object

14 object

15A surface

15B surface

15C edge

16A surface

16B edge

17A radius

17B radius

18 surface

19 circumference

20 radius

AD-1 axial direction

AD-2 axial direction

AR axis of rotation, crankshaft

BR bearing

CD-I circumferential direction CD-2 circumferential direction F fluid

LI line

L2 line

LAI longitudinal axis, crankshaft

LA2 longitudinal axis, outer gerotor

RD-1 radial direction

RD-2 radial direction

100 eccentric motor and pump assembly

102 crankshaft

104 inner gerotor

105 central opening, inner gerotor

106 outer gerotor

108 inlet cover assembly

110A-110F inlet port

112 outlet cover assembly

114A-114F outlet port

116 magnetic actuator

118 outer ring

120 inlet shutter plate

121 end plate

122 outlet shutter plate

124A-124F lobes, inner gerotor

126 recess, inner gerotor

128 lobe, outer gerotor

130A-130F recesses, outer gerotor 131 magnetic field

131A magnetic field

131B magnetic field 132 cylindrical outer surface, crankshaft

133 radially inner surface, inner gerotor

134 radial distance

135 radially outer surface, outer gerotor

136 radial distance

138 bearing

139 radially outer portion, inlet shutter plate

140 radially outer portion, outlet shutter plate 142 magnetic core

144 winding

145 bolt

146 pocket, outer gerotor

147 slot, outer gerotor

148 inlet nozzle

150 outlet nozzle

152 pressure relief valve

154 outlet chamber

156 exterior, assembly 112

158 through-bore

160 spring

162 cap

164 O-ring

166 seal

168 slot

170 plate

172 plate

174 radial distance

176 path of motion

177 radially outer edge, inlet shutter plate radially outer edge, outlet shutter plate bolts