CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/314,886 filed February 28, 2022 and entitled “PUMP MOTOR HANDLE,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to pumps. More specifically, this disclosure relates to handles for a motor of a pump.

Pumps include a fluid displacer that is moved to displace fluid, either liquid or gas. The fluid displacer is connected to a motor to be displaced by the motor. For example, the motor can be an electric motor. Some pumps include a motor that is separable from the fluid displacer. A cord of the electric motor extends from a housing of the electric motor, but such a cord is susceptible to grasping by a user when carrying the motor or during mounting and dismounting of the motor on the fluid displacer, which can damage the cord or the motor.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect of the disclosure, a drive module for a pump system is configured to power movement of a fluid displacer to cause the fluid displacer to pump a fluid. The drive module includes an electric motor; a handle mounted to a motor housing of the electric motor; and a cord extending through a portion of the handle and into the motor housing, the cord electrically connected with the electric motor.

According to an additional or alternative aspect of the disclosure, a drive module for a pump system is configured to power movement of a fluid displacer to cause the fluid displacer to pump a fluid. The drive module includes an electric motor; a handle mounted to a motor housing of the electric motor, the handle including a first aperture, a second aperture, and a channel extending between the first aperture and the second aperture; and a cord extending through the channel and into the motor housing through the first aperture, the cord projecting out of the handle through the second aperture, and the cord electrically connected with the electric motor.

According to another additional or alternative aspect of the disclosure, a drive module for a pump system is configured to power movement of a fluid displacer to cause the fluid displacer to pump a fluid. The drive module includes an electric motor including a motor housing and an electromagnetic portion formed by a stator and a rotor configured to rotate on a rotational axis, the electromagnetic portion disposed within the motor housing; a handle mounted to the motor housing, the handle radially overlapping with at least a portion of the electromagnetic portion of the electric motor; and a cord extending through a portion of the handle and into the motor housing, the cord electrically connected with the electric motor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a pump system.

FIG. IB is an enlarged isometric view of the pump system shown in FIG. 1A with the drive module dismounted from the pump module.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the drive module taken along line 2-2 in FIG. IB.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the drive module with an end cap removed to expose the interface between the handle and the motor assembly.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of the pump motor handle.

FIG. 4B is an exploded view of a grip portion of the pump motor handle shown in FIG. 4A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure concerns motors that power pumps. The motor is contained within a housing. A handle extends from the housing and can be grasped by a hand of a user to manipulate and carry the motor. A cord, which can transmit power and/or signals to the motor, extends through the handle and enters into the motor housing from the handle.

Components can be considered to radially overlap when those components are disposed at common axial locations along an axis. A radial line extending from the axis will extend through each of the radially overlapping components. Components can be considered to axially overlap when those components are disposed at common radial and circumferential locations such that an axial line parallel to the axis extends through the axially overlapping components. Components can be considered to circumferentially overlap when aligned about the axis, such that a circle centered on the axis passes through the circumferentially overlapping components.

FIG. 1A is an isometric view of pump system 10. FIG. IB is an enlarged view showing drive module 12 of pump system 10 dismounted from pump module 14 of pump system 10. FIGS. 1A and IB are discussed together. Pump system 10 includes drive module 12 and pump module 14. Electric motor 16, drive 18, handle 20, cord 22, and first interface part 24 of drive module 12 are shown. First motor end 26, second motor end 28, and motor housing 30 of electric motor 16 are shown. Handle first end 32, handle second end 34, grip 36, second bracket 40, and first bracket 38 of handle 20 are shown. Second interface part 42 of pump module 14 is shown.

Pump system 10 is configured to displace fluid by movement of a fluid displacer 44 of pump module 14. For example, the pump module 14 can include a reciprocating piston, diaphragm, or other type of fluid displacement member for pumping. While reciprocating pumps are generally shown, the pump module 14 may instead include a rotor-stator pump or other configuration of pump.

Drive module 12 is connectable to and disconnectable from the pump module 14. Drive module 12 can be mounted to and dismounted from pump module 14. Drive module 12 is configured to cause the movement of the fluid displacer 44 of the pump module 14. In some applications, the pump module 14 can be placed to extend at least partially in a barrel or other type of fluid reservoir while the drive module 12 is disposed outside of the barrel or other fluid reservoir. The pump module 14 can be left mounted to the fluid reservoir while the drive module 12 is dismounted from the pump module 14. The drive module 12 can then be stored separate from the pump module 14 or mounted to a different pump module 14 to power pumping by that other pump module 14.

Drive module 12 includes electric motor 16 that is configured to drive displacement of the fluid displacer 44 of pump module 14. Motor housing 30 supports the electromagnetic components of electric motor 16. The electric motor 16 can be, for example, a brushless rotor stator type electric motor, amongst other options. The electric motor 16 includes a first motor end 26 and a second motor end 28. In the example shown, the first motor end 26 corresponds with the top end of electric motor 16 and the second motor end 28 corresponds with a bottom end of electric motor 16. The first motor end 26 is vertically above the second motor end 28 in the example shown.

The drive module 12 includes a drive 18. The drive 18 can convert the rotational motion output from the electric motor 16 into reciprocating motion that is conveyed to the pump module 14 for pumping. For example, the drive 18 can be a screw and nut mechanism, or an eccentric and yoke mechanism, amongst various other options.

As shown, the drive module 12 includes a first interface part 24 that is configured to interface with a second interface part 42 of the pump module 14. In the example shown, the second interfacing part 42 of pump module 14 includes an end of the fluid displacer 44 that is configured to interface with the drive 18 of drive module 12. The second interface part 42 further includes a plate 46b configured to interface with a plate 46a of the first interface part 24 to support the drive module 12 on the pump module 14. The interfacing of the first interface part 24 and the second interface part 42 supports and stabilizes the drive module 12 on the pump module 14 in a static connection but also includes a dynamic connection that transfers reciprocating motion to the piston (or other fluid displacement member) of the pump module 14 by the drive 18. Through this dynamic interface, reciprocating motion is transferred from the drive module 12 to the pump module 14 for the purpose of reciprocating the fluid displacer 44 of the pump module 14.

To facilitate this mounting and handling, the drive module 12 includes handle 20. In this particular embodiment, extending from the handle 20 is a cord 22. The cord 22 supplies power, sensor signals, and/or control signals to and/or from the drive module 12. The electric motor 16 receives power and/or control signals from the cord 22. For example, the control signals can cause the rotor of the electric motor 16 to rotate in a first rotational direction or a second rotational direction opposite the first rotational direction to cause displacement of the fluid displacer 44 of pump module 14.

Handle 20 projects outward from motor housing 30 of electric motor 16. Handle 20 includes handle first end 32 and handle second end 34. In the example shown, the handle first end 32 corresponds with an upper end of handle 20 and handle second end 34 corresponds with a lower end of handle 20. In the example shown, handle first end 32 is disposed vertically above handle second end 34. Handle first end 32 connects with the first motor end 26 of the electric motor 16 while the handle second end 34 connects with the second motor end 28 of the electric motor 16. These may be the only two connection points between the handle 20 and other portions of drive module 12 — the two interfaces between the handle 20 and the electric motor 16.

The handle 20 is mounted to other portions of drive module 12 at first bracket 38 and second bracket 40. The first bracket 38 is located at the handle first end 32. First bracket 38 can also be referred to as an upper bracket. The second bracket 40 is located at the handle second end 34. Second bracket 40 can also be referred to as a lower bracket. In the example shown, grip 36 extends between and is mounted to first bracket 38 and second bracket 40. The first bracket 38 and second bracket 40 can be mounted to or be formed as part of the electric motor 16. For example, one or both of the first bracket 38 and the second bracket 40 may be bolted to motor housing 30 of the electric motor 16 or formed by portions of motor housing 30 of electric motor 16. In the example shown, first bracket 38 is formed by motor housing 30 and second bracket 40 is fixed to motor housing 30 by fasteners, such as bolts among other fastener options. Cord 22 projects out of handle 20. In the example shown, cord 22 projects out of handle 20 through grip 36. In the example shown, cord 22 projects axially out of handle 20 relative to the reciprocation axis RA of the fluid displacer 44 of pump module and to a location outside of electric motor 16.

A user can grasp handle 20, such as by grasping grip 36, to move, carry, or otherwise manipulate the position of drive module 12. The user can grasp handle 20 with a single hand of the user to move, carry, or otherwise manipulate the position of drive module 12. The user can grasp handle 20, by grasping grip 36 that is mounted to electric motor 16 by first bracket 38 and second bracket 40, such that the user can support the full weight of drive module 12 via handle 20. The user can grasp handle 20 to mount drive module 12 to pump module 14 and to dismount drive module 12 from pump module 14. For example, the user can grasp handle to shift drive module 12 laterally relative to motor axis MA, on which the rotor of the electric motor 16 rotates, to interface the first interface part 24 and the second interface part 42 to mount the drive module 12 to pump module 14. The user can grasp handle 20 to move drive module 12 to different locations, such as for maintenance, transport, storage, etc. Handle 20 provides a gasping location that protects cord 22 from undesirable direct grasping by the user. Instead, cord 22 is routed through handle 20 such that the handle 20 provides a convenient grasping location for the user while protecting the cord 22 from being directly grasped.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of drive module 12 taken along line 2-2 in FIG. IB. Electric motor 16, drive 18, handle 20, cord 22, and first interface part 24 of drive module 12 are shown. First motor end 26; second motor end 28; motor housing 30; and electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 are shown. Stator 50; rotor 52; bearings 54a, 54b; and drive shaft 56 of electric motor 16 are shown. Stator 50 and rotor 52 form electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. Handle first end 32, handle second end 34, grip 36, second bracket 40, first bracket 38, cord aperture 58a, cord aperture 58b, channel 60, and ribs 62 of handle 20 are shown. Grip 36 includes bracket connectors 64a, 64b. First bracket 38 includes bracket projection 66a. Second bracket 40 includes bracket projection 66b.

Electric motor 16 is configured to generate a rotational output that powers movement of a fluid displacer of a pump, such as fluid displacer 44 of pump module 14. The electric motor 16 includes a stator 50 that receives electrical energy and generates electromagnetic fields to drive rotation of the rotor 52 of electric motor 16. Rotor 52 can include magnetic components that are acted on by the electromagnetic fields generated by stator 50 to drive rotation of rotor 52. For example, rotor 52 can include electromagnets or permanent magnets, among other options. In the example shown, the stator 50 is disposed radially around and outside of the rotor 52, such that electric motor 16 is an inner rotating motor. It is understood, however, that not all examples are so limited. For example, electric motor 16 can be configured as an outer rotating motor in which stator 50 is disposed radially within rotor 52. Cord 22 is operatively connected to electric motor 16 to provide power and/or communication signals (e.g., sensor or command) to or from electric motor 16.

Drive shaft 56 is connected to rotor 52 to be rotated by rotor 52. Drive shaft 56 is rotatably supported by bearings 54a, 54b that are disposed on opposite axial ends of drive shaft 56. Drive shaft 56 is connected to drive 18. In the example shown, drive 18 is configured to convert the rotational output of electric motor 16, provided to drive 18 via drive shaft 56, to reciprocating linear motion provided to the fluid displacer 44 of the pump. For example, the drive 18 can be a screw and nut mechanism, an eccentric and yoke mechanism, etc.

Bearing 54a is supported by end block 68a of motor housing 30 and bearing 54b is supported by end block 68b of motor housing 30. End blocks 68a, 68b are disposed on opposite axial sides of stator 50 and rotor 52. Central housing 72 of motor housing 30 extends axially between end blocks 68a, 68b. Stator 50 and rotor 52 are disposed radially within central housing 72.

End cap 70a of motor housing 30 is disposed at first motor end 26 and at least partially encloses control cavity 74 within motor housing 30. Control components of electric motor 16 can be disposed within control cavity 74 (e.g., a controller, an encoder, etc.). The control components can be electrically connected to cord 22 for power, communications, etc. End cap 70a is disposed on an opposite axial side of end block 68a from stator 50 and rotor 52. End cap 70b of motor housing 30 is disposed at second motor end 28. End cap 70b is disposed on an opposite axial side of end block 68b from stator 50 and rotor 52.

Motor housing 30 encloses other components of electric motor 16. Motor housing 30 supports the electromagnetic portion 48 (e.g., stator 50 and rotor 52) of electric motor 16. Handle 20 is connected to motor housing 30. Handle 20 projects outward relative to motor housing 30. At least a portion of handle 20 is spaced from the exterior of motor housing 30 such that a grip aperture 76 is formed between portions of handle 20 and portions of motor housing 30. Grip aperture 76 is laterally open such that the fingers of a user can pass fully through grip aperture 76. However, grip aperture 76 is fully enclosed and surrounded by handle 20 and motor housing 30. Grip aperture 76 is partially defined by handle 20 and partially defined by motor housing 30 in the example shown.

In the example shown, grip 36 includes bracket connectors 64a, 64b formed at opposite ends of grip 36. Bracket connector 64a is configured to interface with first bracket 38. In the example shown, bracket connector 64a is formed by one or more slots that extend at least partially around grip 36.

First bracket 38 is formed by motor housing 30, in the example shown. For example, first bracket 38 can be formed by one or more other components of motor housing 30. In the example shown, first bracket 38 is at least partially formed by end block 68a of motor housing 30. In the example shown, end block 68a both forms first bracket 38 and supports bearing 54a. End cap 70a is mounted to end block 68a to secure grip 36 on first bracket 38 and prevent movement of grip 36 in first axial direction ADI and out of engagement with first bracket 38.

Bracket projection 66a is a portion of first bracket 38 that is configured to interface with bracket connector 64a to mount grip 36 on first bracket 38. In the example shown, bracket projection 66a extends at least partially around grip 36. In the example shown, bracket projection 66a interfaces with bracket connector 64a such that grip 36 can be shifted in first axial direction ADI to dismount from first bracket 38 and such that grip 36 is configured to be shifted in second axial direction AD2 to interface bracket connector 64a on bracket projection 66a. Grip 36 can be mounted on first bracket 38 by sliding grip 36 in second axial direction AD2 to engage bracket projection 66a with bracket connector 64a. In the example shown, the interface between bracket projection 66a and bracket connector 64a prevents grip 36 from shifting in second axial direction AD2 relative to motor housing 30 and prevents grip 36 from shifting into or away from motor housing 30.

Bracket projection 66a is formed as a flange that extends into the slot forming bracket connector 64a of grip 36. In some examples, the bracket projection 66a can be formed as a U-shaped flange. The bracket connector 64a can similarly be formed as a U- shaped slot. The bracket projection 66a extends into the bracket connector 64a in the example shown. It is understood, however, that not all examples are so limited. For example, grip 36 can include a projection forming bracket connector 64a that extends into a slot of first bracket 38 forming the bracket projection 66a, in which case the slot forming bracket projection 66a projects into other portions of the first bracket 38.

The flange-in-slot interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38 inhibits movement of grip 36 further into or out of motor housing 30. The interface prevents grip 36 from being pulled away from motor housing 30 or being pushed into motor housing 30. The interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38 further prevents movement of grip 36 in second axial direction AD2.

In the example shown, handle 20 extends into an interior of motor housing 30. In the example shown, handle 20 extends into an interior of motor housing 30 such that at least a portion of grip 36 is disposed within motor housing 30. Handle 20 extends into motor housing 30 such that a portion of handle 20 axially overlaps with electromagnetic components of electric motor 16. Handle 20 axially overlaps with stator 50 in the example shown, but it is understood that handle 20 can axially overlap with stator 50 and not rotor 52, can axially overlap with rotor 52 and not stator 50, or can axially overlap with both stator 50 and rotor 52, depending on the configuration of electric motor 16. The handle 20 extending into motor housing 30 to axially overlap with electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 provides for a smaller, more compact drive module 12 that is easier for the user to position and manipulate in cramped environments, which are typically the locations in which such a modular pump system 10 as that described is operated.

In the example shown, grip 36 extends fully through first bracket 38 such that grip 36 is at least partially disposed within motor housing 30. More specifically, grip 36 extends through first bracket 38 such that a portion of grip 36 is disposed within control cavity 74. With grip 36 extending into motor housing 30, grip 36 extends such that a portion of grip 36 axially overlaps with electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. In the example shown, grip 36 axially overlaps with stator 50, though it is understood that not all examples are so limited. For example, grip 36 may axially overlap with both stator 50 and rotor 52 in some examples. Grip 36 may axially overlap with rotor 52 and not stator 50 in some examples.

Bracket connector 64b is configured to interface with second bracket 40. In the example shown, bracket connector 64b is formed by one or more slots that extend at least partially around grip 36. In the example shown, second bracket 40 is formed separately from and connected to motor housing 30. For example, second bracket 40 can be configured to mount to motor housing 30 by fasteners that extend through second bracket 40 and into motor housing 30. In the example shown, the fasteners are configured to extend through second bracket 40 and into end cap 70b of motor housing 30.

Bracket projection 66b is a portion of second bracket 40 that is configured to interface with bracket connector 64b to mount grip 36 and second bracket 40 together. In the example shown, bracket projection 66b extends at least partially around grip 36. In the example shown, bracket projection 66b interfaces with bracket connector 64b such that second bracket 40 can be shifted in first axial direction ADI to dismount from grip 36 and such that second bracket 40 can be shifted in second axial direction AD2 to interface bracket projection 66b on bracket connector 64b. In the example shown, the interface between bracket projection 66b and bracket connector 64b prevents grip 36 from shifting in first axial direction ADI relative to motor housing 30 and prevents grip 36 from shifting towards or away from motor housing 30 relative to second bracket 40. The fasteners connect second bracket 40 to motor housing 30 such that the interface between bracket projection 66b and bracket connector 64b prevent grip 36 from shifting towards or away from motor housing 30.

Bracket projection 66b is formed as a flange that extends into the slot forming bracket connector 64b of grip 36. In some examples, the bracket projection 66b can be formed as a U-shaped flange. The bracket connector 64b can similarly be formed as a U- shaped slot. The bracket projection 66b extends into the bracket connector 64b in the example shown. It is understood, however, that not all examples are so limited. For example, grip 36 can include a projection forming bracket connector 64b that extends into a slot of second bracket 40 forming the bracket projection 66b, in which case the slot forming bracket projection 66b projects into other portions of the second bracket 40.

The flange-in-slot interface between grip 36 and second bracket 40 inhibits movement of grip 36 further towards or away from motor housing 30. The interface prevents grip 36 from being pulled away from motor housing 30 or being pushed into motor housing 30. The interface between grip 36 and second bracket 40 further prevents movement of grip 36 in first axial direction ADI relative to second bracket 40 and thus relative to motor housing 30 with second bracket 40 mounted to electric motor 16.

Handle 20 can be considered to extend around the electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 in the example shown. Handle 20 extends axially around electromagnetic portion 48 in the example shown. The stator 50 and rotor 52 are disposed axially between the handle first end 32 and the handle second end 34. The handle 20 radially overlaps with the electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. In the example shown, the handle 20 radially overlaps with the entire axial extent of the electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. The electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 do not radially overlap with handle first end 32 or handle second end 34, in the example shown. The handle 20 extends fully axially around the motor 16 such that the handle 20 radially overlaps with the full axial length of electromagnetic portion 48, in the example shown. The handle 20 radially overlapping with electromagnetic portion 48 provides balanced weight of the electric motor 16 relative to the grip 36, providing for ergonomic carrying of the drive module 12 via handle 20. The handle 20 extending beyond each axial end of the electromagnetic portion 48 also provides balanced weight for carrying of drive module 12.

Channel 60 is formed within handle 20. Cord 22 extends through channel 60 and is supported by handle 20. In the example shown, channel 60 extends between cord apertures 58a, 58b formed in handle 20. Cord aperture 58a provides a location at which cord 22 exits from handle 20 and into the interior of motor housing 30. Cord aperture 58b provides a location at which cord 22 exits from handle 20 to outside of drive module 12.

Handle 20 is disposed such that cord aperture 58a is disposed within motor housing 30. Cord aperture 58a is formed through grip 36. As such, cord 22 exits from handle 20 at a location within motor housing 30. The cord 22 does not need to bridge a gap between handle 20 and motor housing 30 to enter into motor housing 30. The cord 22 exiting from handle 20 at a location within motor housing 30 protects cord 22 by preventing undesired contact that could damage cord 22 or electric motor 16. Cord 22 is protected by handle 20 and is protected by motor housing 30 once cord 22 exits from cord aperture 58a. Having the cord 22 exit from handle 20 directly into motor housing 30 prevents damage to cord 22 and electric motor 16.

In the example shown, cord aperture 58a is disposed such that cord aperture 58a axially overlaps with electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. Cord aperture 58a axially overlaps with stator 50 in the example shown. It is understood, however, that in various other examples, cord aperture 58a can axially overlap with rotor 52 or axially overlap with the air gap between rotor 52 and stator 50. Cord aperture 58a is spaced axially from the electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 such that cord aperture 58a does not radially overlap with the electromagnetic portion 48.

Cord 22 exits from handle 20 through cord aperture 58b to be disposed at a location outside of handle 20 and outside of electric motor 16. Cord aperture 58b is disposed at an opposite end of channel 60 from cord aperture 58a. Cord aperture 58b does not extend through handle second end 34 in the example shown. Instead, cord aperture 58b extends through handle 20 at a location between handle first end 32 and handle second end 34.

Cord aperture 58b is formed through grip 36. Cord aperture 58b is disposed on an opposite axial side of electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16 from cord aperture 58a. In the example shown, cord aperture 58b is positioned such that cord aperture 58b does not radially overlap with electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16. Cord aperture 58b is positioned such that cord aperture 58b does not axially overlap with the electromagnetic portion 48 of electric motor 16.

Ribs 62 are formed on the interior of handle 20. Ribs 62 project inwards and define the channel 60 that cord 22 extends through. Ribs 62 project to engage with the exterior of cord 22. Ribs 62 interface with cord 22 to hold cord 22 within channel 60. Ribs 62 engaging with cord 22 provides strain relief to cord 22. The strain relief provided by handle 20 prevents the cord 22 from being pulled out of engagement with electric motor 16 if a user does happen to grasp and pull on cord 22. The ribs 62 can pinch cord 22 to inhibit pulling of cord 22 through cord aperture 58b, securing cord 22 to prevent pulling of cord 22 out of engagement with electric motor 16.

Channel 60 is configured to provide strain relief to cord 22. In the example shown, cord aperture 58a is oriented horizontally while cord aperture 58b is oriented vertically. The channel 60 is curved between cord aperture 58a and cord aperture 58b. The channel 60 does not extend straight between cord aperture 58a and cord aperture 58b. In the example shown, channel 60 is configured such that the portion of cord 22 exiting from cord aperture 58a is disposed at a right angle to the portion of cord 22 exiting from cord aperture 58b, though it is understood that other configurations are contemplated within the scope of the disclosure. The curved configuration of channel 60 provides strain relief that prevents the cord 22 from being pulled out of engagement with electric motor 16 if a user does happen to grasp and pull on cord 22.

Cord aperture 58a is oriented such that cord 22 exits from cord aperture 58a in an orientation orthogonal, or normal, to a plane extending along motor axis MA and in which plane the motor axis MA is disposed. In the example shown, and as shown in more detail in FIG. 3, cord aperture 58a is not aligned with but is instead radially offset from the motor axis MA. It is understood, however, that not all examples are so limited.

Cord aperture 58b is oriented vertically such that cord 22 extends axially relative to motor axis MA as cord exits through cord aperture 58b. The cord 22 can extend parallel to the motor axis MA as the cord 22 exits through cord aperture 58b. In the example shown, cord aperture 58b is disposed such that cord 22 extends vertically downward as the cord 22 exits from handle 20. The cord 22 extending vertically downward prevents moisture from wicking along the exterior of cord 22 to the electric motor 16, preventing such moisture from wicking to moisture-sensitive components of electric motor 16.

Cord retainer 78 is disposed on cord 22. Cord retainer 78 can be formed separate from cord 22 and mounted to cord 22. For example, cord 22 can be formed as a tie that is mounted to cord 22. Cord retainer 78 is configured to interface with a rib 62 to inhibit movement of cord 22 within channel 60. Cord retainer 78 further protects cord 22 from being pulled out of channel 60 if a user were to grasp and pull on cord 22. Cord retainer 78 can be formed as a ring or of any other desired configuration suitable for interfacing with a rib 62 and inhibiting movement of cord 22.

Handle 20 provides significant advantages. Handle 20 is connected to motor housing 30 such that handle 20 can be grasped by a user to carry and position drive module 12, such as during mounting and dismounting of drive module 12. Cord 22 extends within and through handle 20. Cord 22 enters into motor housing 30 directly from handle 20, protecting cord 22 from undesired contact that can damage the connection between cord 22 and electric motor 16. Channel 60 that routes cord 22 is curved, which provides strain relief that prevents damage to the connection between cord 22 and electric motor 16. Ribs 62 engage with cord 22 to provide further strain relief. First bracket 38 being formed by a portion of motor housing 30 reduces the part count and number of fasteners required for assembling handle 20 to electric motor 16. Grip 36 being directly mounted to motor housing 30 further enhances the robustness of the connection, providing a more robust handle 20.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged isometric view of a portion of drive module 12 with end cap 70a removed to expose the interface between handle 20 and electric motor 16. FIG. 3 shows a more detailed view of the interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38.

First bracket 38 is formed by a portion of motor housing 30, in the example shown. In the example shown, grip 36 is disposed within and extends through bracket slot 80a of first bracket 38. Bracket slot 80a is open in first axial direction ADI

Bracket projection 66a is formed as a flange, such as a U-shaped flange, that extends into the slot forming bracket connector 64a of grip 36. Bracket projection 66a extends into the bracket slot 80a. The flange-in-groove interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38 inhibits movement of grip 36 further into or out of motor housing 30. The interface prevents grip 36 from being pulled away from motor housing 30 or being pushed into motor housing 30. The interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38 further prevents movement of grip 36 in second axial direction AD2.

Grip 36 extends fully through first bracket 38 such that grip 36 is at least partially disposed within motor housing 30. Grip 36 extends fully through first bracket 38 such that cord 22 exits from handle 20 at a location within motor housing 30. Second bracket 40 is formed separately from motor housing 30 and is fixed to motor housing 30 via fasteners 82. The interface between grip 36 and second bracket 40 can be substantively similar to the interface between grip 36 and first bracket 38. Bracket slot 80b is a slot formed in second bracket 40 that grip 36 extends into to interface with bracket projection 66b. Bracket slot 80b is open in second axial direction AD2.

In the example shown, bracket slot 80a is open in first axial direction ADI such that grip 36 can be dismounted by relative sliding in first axial direction ADI. Bracket slot 80b is open in second axial direction AD2 such that grip 36 can be dismounted by relative sliding in second axial direction AD2. Bracket slot 80a is open in an opposite axial direction from bracket slot 80b. Such a configuration locks grip 36 relative to the first bracket 38 and second bracket 40 to prevent pulling of grip 36 off of motor housing 30 with grip 36 mounted to both first bracket 38 and second bracket 40 and with first bracket 38 and second bracket 40 fixed relative to motor housing 30.

During assembly, second bracket 40 can be positioned over grip 36 to mount second bracket 40 and grip 36 together. For example, second bracket 40 can be slid in second axial direction AD2 such that grip 36 enters into bracket slot 80b. Bracket projection 66b extends into bracket connector 64b such that grip 36 cannot be pulled out of bracket slot 80b except by relative sliding through the vertical opening of bracket slot 80b.

Grip 36 is aligned with first bracket 38 and slid in second axial direction AD2 such that grip 36 enters into bracket slot 80a. Grip 36 is slid in second axial direction AD2 such that bracket connector 64a enters into bracket projection 66a. With the interface between bracket connector 64a and bracket projection 66a formed, grip 36 is prevented from being pulled away from or being driven further into motor housing 30. Mounting grip 36 on first bracket 38 aligns the fastener openings through second bracket 40 with fastener openings through motor housing 30. Fasteners 82 can then be inserted through second bracket 40 to secure handle 20 on electric motor 16.

While handle 20 is described as being assembled by first engaging second bracket 40 with grip 36 and then mounting that assembly on first bracket 38, it is understood that handle 20 can be assembled to electric motor 16 in other manners. For example, grip 36 can first be mounted to first bracket 38, then second bracket 40 can be engaged with grip 36 and connected to motor housing 30 by fasteners 82.

Handle 20 provides significant advantages. In the example shown, grip 36 is mounted to first bracket 38 that is formed by a portion of motor housing 30. Grip 36 is directly mounted to motor housing 30 at handle first end 32. Directly mounting grip 36 to motor housing 30 provides a robust connection that reduces the number of fasteners required to mount handle 20, providing for a simpler arrangement. Directly mounting grip 36 to motor housing 30 further provides a robust interface for supporting and carrying the weight of drive module 12 by handle 20.

Handle 20 can be simply and easily mounted to electric motor 16 during assembly of drive module 12. The interfaces between first bracket 38 and grip 36 and between second bracket 40 and grip 36 are formed by relative sliding of the components. Fasteners 82 extend through second bracket 40 and into motor housing 30. Grip 36, which is the portion of handle 20 through which cord 22 is routed, is not directly fixedly connected to motor housing 30, such as by fasteners through grip 36 itself, further providing strain relief to cord 22.

FIG. 4A is an isometric view of handle 20. FIG. 4B is an exploded view of grip 36. Handle first end 32, handle second end 34, grip 36, second bracket 40, cord aperture 58a, cord aperture 58b, channel 60, and ribs 62 of handle 20 are shown. Bracket connectors 64a, 64b; inner side 84, outer side 86, grip ends 88a, 88b; sloped portions 90a, 90b; hold 92; grooves 94; and housing parts 96a, 96b of grip 36 are shown. Bracket slot 80b of second bracket 40 is shown.

Handle first end 32 includes bracket connector 64a. Bracket connector 64a is configured to interface with the first bracket 38 to mount grip 36 to the first bracket 38. As shown, the bracket connector 64a includes slots which interface with projections of the first bracket 38. Alternatively, the slots may be located in the first bracket 38 and the projections on the handle 20. In this way, the handle 20 can interface with the first bracket 38 by relative sliding.

Handle second end 34 includes bracket connector 64b. Bracket connector 64b connects to the second bracket 40. As shown, the bracket connector 64b includes slots which interface with projections of the second bracket 40. Alternatively, the slots may be located in the second bracket 40 and the projections on the handle 20. In this way, the handle 20 can interface with the second bracket 40 by relative sliding.

In the example shown, both the top and the bottom ends of the grip 36 can be connected simultaneously to the first bracket 38 and second bracket 40 by relative sliding. As discussed above, in other examples the grip 36 can be connected to one bracket and then the other by relative sliding.

Grip 36 includes inner side 84 that is configured to be oriented inward towards electric motor 16. Inner side 84 is oriented into grip aperture 76. Inner side 84 can be considered to at least partially define grip aperture 76. Outer side 86 is configured to be oriented away from electric motor 16 and away from grip aperture 76. In the example shown, cord aperture 58b is formed through outer side 86. Cord aperture 58a is not formed through either of inner side 84 or outer side 86 in the example shown.

Grip end 88a is disposed at handle first end 32. Grip end 88a extends from bracket connector 64a. Grip end 88a extends horizontally away from motor housing 30 in the example shown. Grip end 88a is configured to extend perpendicular to motor housing 30 in the example shown. Grip end 88a extends between bracket connector 64a and sloped portion 90a.

Grip end 88b is disposed at handle second end 34. Grip end 88b extends from bracket connector 64b. Grip end 88b extends horizontally away from motor housing 30 in the example shown. Grip end 88b is configured to extend perpendicular to motor housing 30 in the example shown. Grip end 88b extends between bracket connector 64b and sloped portion 90b.

Sloped portions 90a, 90b extend between grip ends 88a, 88b, respectively, and hold 92 of grip 36. Sloped portions 90a, 90b are canted to such that a vertical height of handle 20 decreases as handle 20 extends away from motor housing 30 between grip ends 88a, 88b and hold 92. Sloped portion 90a is slanted to extend vertically downward. Sloped portion 90b is slanted to extend vertically upward. Sloped portions 90a, 90b extend towards each other as sloped portions 90a, 90b extend away from grip ends 88a, 88b.

Hold 92 extends between and connects sloped portions 90a, 90b. Hold 92 extends vertically in the example shown. Hold 92 can extend parallel to motor axis MA. Hold 92 is configured to be gasped by the hand of the user so the user can carry and/or manipulate the position of drive module 12. Sloped portion 90a provides a sloped surface that allows for the user to further support handle 20 by placing the thumb of the hand that is grasping handle 20 on sloped portion 90a. Holding handle 20 in such a manner, with fingers wrapped around hold 92 and a thumb on sloped portion 90a, provides further support and allows for easier manipulation of the drive module 12 into a vertical orientation for mounting to the pump module 14.

Arrayed along the handle 20 are grooves 94. Grooves 94 are formed at least partially around grip 36. As shown in FIG. 4 A, clips 98 slide into the grooves 94 to secure parts of the handle 20 together. In the example shown, grip 36 is formed from housing parts 96a, 96b that are assembled together to form grip 36. The housing parts 96a, 96b can clamshell together to capture the cord 22 therebetween. The clips 98 can be plastic or metal springs that apply pressure to keep the housing part 96a and the housing part 96b pressed together.

In the example shown, a subset of the clips 98 extend around inner side 84 and towards outer side 86 and another subset of the clips 98 extend around the outer side 86 and towards the inner side 84. At least one clip 98 engages the handle 20 from outer side 86 that is oriented away from the motor housing 30. At least one clip 98 engages the handle 20 from inner side 84 that is oriented towards the motor housing 30. Having clips 98 engage handle 20 from both inner side 84 and outer side 86 provides a robust connection that secures housing parts 96a, 96b together to clamp cord 22 within handle 20. In the example shown, one of the clips 98 engages sloped portion 90b from inner side 84 and one of the clips 98 engages sloped portion 90a from outer side 86. In the example shown, each of the clips 98 engaging hold 92 engage hold 92 from outer side 86.

In the example shown, grooves 94 are formed on sloped portions 90a, 90b and on hold 92. In the example shown, no grooves 94 are formed on grip ends 88a, 88b. The example shown includes a single groove 94 on each of sloped portions 90a, 90b and multiple grooves 94, two in the example shown, on the hold 92.

Cord 22 extends through handle 20 and exits handle 20 through cord aperture 58a and cord aperture 58b. Cord aperture 58a is disposed through handle first end 32 and oriented horizontally. Cord aperture 58b is spaced from handle second end 34 and oriented vertically downward. In the example shown, cord aperture 58b is formed through sloped portion 90b. Cord aperture 58b being formed through sloped portion 90b protects cord 22 at the location at which cord 22 exits from handle 20. Forming cord aperture 58b through sloped portion 90b spaces cord aperture 58 from a lowermost surface of grip 36, formed on the outer side 86 on grip end 88b, and spaces cord aperture 58 from the outermost surface of grip 36, formed on the outer side 86 on hold 92. Spacing cord aperture 58b from the lowermost and outermost surfaces of grip 36 protects the portion of cord 22 emerging from cord aperture 58b from undesired contact damage, as the lowermost and outermost surfaces are the surfaces most likely to experience such contact, and protects from undesired grasping. Cord 22 emerges from cord aperture 58b in a downward direction.

The handle 20 includes a channel 60 through which the cord 22 extends within the handle 20. In the example shown, the channel 60 extends within grip 36. More specifically, the channel 60 extends within sloped portion 90b, hold 92, sloped portion 90a, and grip end 88a. The channel 60 does not extend within or through the grip end 88b in the example shown. Channel 60 extends fully through hold 92, sloped portion 90a, and grip end 88a. Channel 60 extends partially within sloped portion 90b in the example shown.

Channel 60 extends between cord aperture 58a and cord aperture 58b. In the example shown, the channel 60 is curved between cord apertures 58a, 58b. The cord 22 traverses through the curved channel 60 between cord aperture 58a and cord aperture 58b. The channel 60 does not extend straight between cord apertures 58a, 58b in the example shown. In the example shown, channel 60 is curved such that channel 60 bends 90-degrees between a vertical portion extending from cord aperture 58b and a horizontal portion extending from cord aperture 58 a.

The channel 60 extends through first bracket 38 such that cord aperture 58a is disposed within motor housing 30. The channel 60 can be at least partially formed by ribs 62 that extend inward within the handle 20 to define the channel 60 to support the cord 22. The cord 22 can extend from the channel 60 directly into the electric motor 16 at the first motor end 26.

Handle 20 can be formed of any desired material. In some examples, handle 20 can be formed from a plastic. In some examples, at least grip 36 of handle 20 is formed from a plastic. For example, grip 36, among other portions of handle 20, can be formed from an impact resistant material. In some examples, grip 36, among other portions of handle 20, can be formed from an impact resistant polyamide. In some examples, grip 36, among other portions of handle 20, can be formed from a nylon. In one example, grip 36 and second bracket 40 are formed from the plastic while first bracket 38 is formed from a metal forming the motor housing 30. In one example, each portion of handle 20 (e.g., grip 36, first bracket 38, and second bracket 40) are each formed from the plastic.

In the example shown, the handle 20 does not include any electrical switches or electronic interfaces, and the only electronic component is the cord 22, which itself only extends through the handle 20. Handle 20 routes electrical components, formed by cord 22 in the example shown.

The handle 20 serves as a strain relief for the cord 22. The curved configuration of channel 60 provides strain relief that prevents the cord 22 from being pulled out of engagement with electric motor 16 if a user does happen to grasp and pull on cord 22. The ribs 62 can engage with cord 22 such that cord 22 is clamped and held between housing parts 96a, 96b of handle 20. Grip 36 directly engaging cord 22 to hold cord 22 provides strain relief that prevents strain from being transmitted to the interface between cord 22 and electric motor 16 if the user does grasp cord 22. The handle 20 also discourages the user from grasping the cord 22 to pick up the drive module 12 by the cord 22. As previously shown, the drive module 12 is dismountable from the pump module 14, and some operators may misuse the pump system 10 by grasping the cord 22 to mount or dismount the drive module 12, which can compromise the connection of the cord 22, potentially ruining the drive module 12. By having the cord 22 emerge from the handle 20 in a direction pointed downward the arrangement discourages grabbing at the cord 22, and the handle 20 itself presents a visible and suitable part for user to grasp to mount and dismount the drive module 12.

In the example shown, the cord 22 extends through part of the handle 20, but not the entirety of handle 20. Specifically, the cord 22 extends entirely through the handle first end 32 of the handle 20 to enter the electric motor 16 at the first motor end 26 of the electric motor 16, but the cord 22 does not extend through part of the second handle end 34 of the handle 20.

While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.