CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/409,465, entitled UNIVERAL-TYPE CASING WITH MODULAR PORTS, filed September 23, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Fluid pumps are used to pump fluid, in myriad applications, typically using a pumping chamber that moves fluid between an inlet and outlet of the pump. The various applications may be implemented for different fluids, for myriad desired pumping speeds/volumes, in different situations. As such, the different applications can call for different pump sizes, different piping sizes, and various attachments for coupling the inlet and outlet ports to the target fluid lines into and out of which the target fluid is moved.

SUMMARY

[0003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key factors or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] One or more techniques and systems are described herein for a redesigned, universaltype pump casing that allows for coupling to various piping couplers, for various sizes of fluid lines. This can allow the pump casing to accept the majority of current fluid line coupling, for various fluid line sizes used with these types of pumps, thereby eliminating the need to have a different casing for each different sized fluid line. This universal-type pump casing design can effectively allow a distributor or end user to stock a common casing, and configure it as needed for a target fluid line size, which can lead to lower cost, less inventory, and shortened lead times. Further, this design also allows for in-the-field design, and the ability to change port size without the disassembly of the pump.

[0005] In one implementation of a universal-type pump casing, the casing can be configured to be operably coupled with different port sizes using differently configured modular flanges. A universal -type pump casing system that allows different port sizes to be selectively disposed on the casing can comprise a proximal end that is configured to be operably engaged with a pump bracket. Further, the universal-type pump casing system can comprise a distal end that is configured to be operably affixed to an end plate to define the pumping chamber. A first port and a second port can each comprise an opening of a predetermined diameter; and each port can comprise a port face having a set of casing flange coupler receivers that are respectively configured to receive a fastener. A first modular port flange can comprise a first port configuration and a set of bores or vias that are complementary to the pre-determined pattern and respectively configured to receive the fastener. A second modular port flange can comprise a second port configuration and a set of bores or vias complementary to the pre-determined pattern and respectively configured to receive the fastener. In this implementation, the first modular port and the second modular port can be configured to be operably fastened to the pump casing to provide a first port configuration and/or a second port configuration.

[0006] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth certain illustrative aspects and implementations. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which one or more aspects may be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the annexed drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIGURES 1A and IB are component diagrams illustrating alternate implementations of an example universal -type pump casings, as described herein.

[0008] FIGURES 2A and 2B are component diagrams illustrating an exploded view of portions of other alternate example universal-type pump casing designs, described herein. [0009] FIGURE 3 is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing, as described herein.

[0010] FIGURE 4 is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing, as described herein.

[0011] FIGURE 5 is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing, as described herein.

[0012] FIGUREA 6A and 6B are component diagrams illustrating other alternate implementations of example universal-type pump casings, as described herein.

[0013] FIGURE 7A, 7B, and 7C are component diagrams illustrating other alternate implementations of an example universal-type pump casing, as described herein.

[0014] FIGURES 8A, 8B and 8C are component diagrams illustrating other implementations of an example universal-type pump casing, as described herein.

[0015] FIGURE 9 is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing, as described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] The claimed subject matter is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are generally used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. It may be evident, however, that the claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to facilitate describing the claimed subject matter.

[0017] In one aspect, a universal-type pump casing can be devised for a pump, which allows for attachment of multiple port sizes, providing for attachment of various fluid line sizes. Prior casings only allowed for one port size, for a target fluid line size, for example, having a fixed flange for the port that accommodated merely one port size. This means that multiple casings are needed to accommodate various port sizes, and that a pump would need to be disassembled in order to change port sizes. Tn this aspect, as described herein, the universal -type pump casing is configured to accept a variety of flanges, which will determine the port size. The casing accepts each port size, and is coupled to a target size flange, with a gasket and appropriate fasteners. In some implementations, the target port size flange(s) are fastened onto the universaltype casing to form a gasketed j oint. In this implementation, the flange sizes can vary to meet end user need, and may be switched out as needed, for example, for in-the-field redesign and/or product line change-out, without needing to change the casing.

[0018] Additionally, there are various sized pumps used for different applications, with the ability to pump at different rates (e.g., of speed, volume), for different fluid types. In some implementations, each size of pump may have a fastener pattern particular to that type and size on the pump casing. In this implementation, each fastener pattern can be configured to match the port options available to that size/type of pump (e.g., flange options). As an example, certain pump sizes/types may only be able to accommodate a certain range of port size options, and the fastener pattern on the casing can be configured to match that range of options for the target size/type of pump. Nozzle load testing of the universal-type pump casing, with modular flanges, validates the sealing capability of the various port sizes to the appropriate fluid line size.

[0019] In this way, for example, flanges (e.g., comprising various port sizes) can be readily changed at any desired time by the end user without the need to have another casing.

Additionally, each casing is configured with at least two ports, an inlet and an outlet. In some implementations, the two ports are independent of each other, and each can be set up with different port sizes (e.g., flange sizes), or set-up to meet different engineering standards (ANSI or DIN). Another advantage of the universal-type casing with modular port size flanges would also allow for the less utilized port options to be more viable, as adding more port options would not divide the quantity on the single casing design. As an example, the ability to change the ports without the need to change the casing itself, allows a manufacturer, distributor, end user to only stock one casing part number for a given material and size. This can help consolidate all the different casing port sizes to one increased volume, leading to reduced manufacturing and inventory costs.

[0020] FIGURE 1A is a component diagram that illustrates one implementation of an exemplary universal -type pump casing 100, where modular port flanges may be utilized to adjust port size. In this example, the pump casing 100 comprises a body 102, a first port 104, a second port 106, and an internal pump chamber 108. The pump casing further comprises a proximal end 110, which operably couples with a pump bracket that supports a rotating pump shaft coupled to a prime mover, such as a motor, and a distal end 112 where an end plate may be engaged to provide a distal wall for the pump chamber 108. As illustrated, an end plate can be fastened to the distal end 112 of the casing body 102 using a plurality of fasteners, such as in a threaded engagement, however, other means are contemplated. As an example, the proximal end 110 of the casing 100 can be engaged with the pump bracket using fasteners that couple the bracket with the casing 100.

[0021] For example, depending on the mode of the pump during operation (e.g., rotation direction), the respective ports 104, 106 can either be in inlet port or an outlet port. Additionally, in this implementation, the respective ports 104, 106 have a planer port face 114, 116 that can operably receive a modular flange, described below, with a gasket disposed therebetween. Respective ports 104, 106 also comprise a set of casing flange coupler receivers 118, 120 (e.g., in this example shown as threaded holes for receiving fasteners, but other attachment means are contemplated), for operably, fixedly engaging a modular flange with the port face 114, 116. As illustrated, the shape of the respective port faces 114, 116 can be configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to be complementary to a target modular flange, such that a substantially leak-free coupling is provided during operation. In this example, the respective port faces 114, 116 have a particular shape, but other shapes are contemplated, and some are shown herein.

[0022] FIGURE IB is an alternate implementation of a pump casing 150. In this implementation, the shape of the respective port faces 156, 158 are rectangular to accommodate a complementary target modular flange. Further, gasket channels 152, 154 are disposed in the face of the respective port faces 156, 158, proximate the openings, to operably receive gaskets (e.g., O-rings). In this way, an improved seal can be provided between the respective port faces 156, 158 and complementary target modular flanges.

[0023] FIGURES 2A and 2B are component diagrams that illustrate an exploded view of another implementation of an example casing 200, 250. In this example, the body 202 of the casing 200 is similar in design to that of 100 of FIGURE 1, with a proximal end 210 and a distal end 212. In this example, the shape of the port faces 214, 216 of the ports 204, 206 comprise a different shape, which is illustrative of the various configurations that are contemplated for the port faces 214, 216. In this example, port flanges 224, 226 comprise a target configuration for the shape and size of the port opening 222, 222’. That is, for example, myriad shapes and sizes can be used for the respective ports 204, 206, and are dependent upon the target use, such as the type of material pumped, fluid lines, locations, environmental conditions, etc. In some implementations, the mating face of the port flanges 224, 226 may comprise the same configuration (e.g., same shape and size); in other implementations the port flanges 224, 226 may comprise different configuration (e.g., different shape and size from each other).

[0024] As illustrated, the respective port flanges 224, 226 can be fastened to the casing 202 with a gasket 234, 234’ disposed between, forming a gasketed joint for the ports 204, 206. In this example, sets of fasteners 228, 228’ can be used to fasten the port flanges 224, 226 to the casing 202 at the port faces 214, 216. It is anticipated that myriad other types of fastening devices and systems can be implemented, with the result being a substantially leak-free joint at the respective ports 204, 206. Further, as illustrated in this example, the respective port flanges 224, 226 comprise through-holes or vias 230, 230’ (e.g., counter-bored holes) that align with the appropriate casing flange coupler receivers 218, 220 (e.g., threaded bore holes) to allow at least a portion of a fastener 228, 228’ to pass therethrough, for example, and provide a shoulder for the fasteners 228, 228’ to clamp against.

[0025] In FIGURE 2B, the example, casing 250 comprises the gasket channels disposed in the respective port faces 252, 254. The channels 256, 258 can respectively hold gaskets (e.g., O- rings) 260, 262. The gaskets 260, 262 can provide a seal between the casing 250 and respective port flanges 224, 226.

[0026] FIGURE 3 is a component diagram that illustrates a isometric view of the example casing 200 in an assembled condition, with target sized port flanges 224, 226 attached. In this example, the respective fasteners 228, 228’ have been disposed in the respective vias 230, 230’ and fastened to the body 202 of the casing 200. As illustrated in FIGURE 3 and FIGURE 4, the respective vias 230, 230’ are aligned in a pre-determined pattern 400, which is complementary to the alignment of the casing flange coupler receivers 218, 220 disposed on the port faces 214, 216 of the respective ports 204, 206. In this way, for example, a plurality of port flange configurations may be deployed, which can respectively be fastened to the universal-type pump casing with a matching fastener pattern 400. Additionally, as illustrated in FIGURES 2A and 3, respective modular port flanges 224, 226 comprise a set of flange coupling bores 232, 232’ that are configured to facilitate fastening of a fluid line coupling flange (e.g., or other type of coupler) to the port flange 224, 226. That is, for example, fasteners can be used (e.g., nuts and bolts, cap screws threaded into threaded bores (e g., 232, 232’)) to fasten a fluid line’s flange to the port flange 224, 226, by inserting the fasteners through the respective flange coupling bores 232, 232’. In this example, the flange coupling bores 232, 232’ are disposed in a pre-determined pattern that is complementary to a target fluid line’s flange coupler.

[0027] With continued reference to FIGURES 2A-4, FIGURE 5 is a component diagram that illustrates one implementation of an example pump 500 with a universal casing 200 attached, and with example flanges 224, 226 fixedly engaged with the casing 200. In this example, the proximal end 210 of the body 202 of the casing 200 is operably fastened to a pump bracket 550 of the pump 500, using one or more fasteners 552 to engaged with the body 202. Further, an end plate 554 is selectably fastened to the distal end 212 of the body 202 of the casing 200 using one or more fasteners 552’ to form a rear wall of the pump chamber 556 disposed inside the body 202. As an example, the pump bracket 550 operably holds a rotating shaft 558, which engages with a rotor 560 disposed in the pump chamber 556 to pump fluid between the two ports 204, 206. As illustrated, in this example, port flanges 224, 226 have been selectably engaged with the casing 200, using fasteners 228, 228’ disposed in the respective vias 230, 230’ arranged in the predetermined pattern 400.

[0028] As described herein, the universal-type casing can comprise a pre-determined first pattern of casing flange coupler (e.g., 118, 120 of FIGURE 1 A, 218, 220 of FIGURE 2A) that are configured to operably couple with a modular port flange that come in myriad configurations (e.g., shapes and sizes). FIGURES 6A and 6B are component diagrams that illustrate alternate implementations of example modular flanges that can be coupled to a universal-type casing. In this example, implementation, the example pump 500 can be coupled with the universal-type casing 200, which can be selectably engaged with two inch port flanges 624, 626. In this example, as described above, the respective two inch port flanges 624, 626 comprise a predetermined arrangement of the vias 630, 630’ in the first pattern that is complementary to the casing flange coupler receivers 618 (and 620, not shown). Fasteners 618, 618’ are used to engage the port flanges 624, 626 with the casing 200, as the corresponding ports, with a gasket 234 disposed therebetween. In this example, the respective two inch port flanges 624, 626 comprise two inch wide port openings and a pre-determined second pattern of flange coupling bores 632, 632’ to operably engage with a target fluid line coupler, which also has the second pattern of fastener couplers.

[0029] In FIGURE 6B, in the example pump 550, a port face 554 comprises a gasket channel 552, in which a gasket 556 is operably disposed. In this way, an appropriate seal can be maintained between the port face 554 and a modular flange 558.

[0030] FIGURE 7A is a component diagram illustrating one implementation 700 of an example universal -type pump casing 100 (e.g., from FIGURE 1A) that is coupled with complementary two inch NPT modular port flanges 724, 726. In this example, the respective modular port flanges 724, 726 are configured for a NPT coupling engagement with fluid lines that comprise two inch NPT couplers. Further the respective NPT modular port flanges 724, 726 comprise a first pattern arrangement of vias 730, 730’ that is complementary to the first patter of the casing flange coupler receivers (e.g., 118, 120 of FIGURE 1A), to fasten the modular port flanges 724, 726 to the body 102 of the casing 100 using fasteners 718, 718’.

[0031] FIGURE 7B is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing 200 (e.g., from FIGURE 2A) engaged with a pump 500, and coupled with a first modular port flange 744 and a different, second modular port flange 746. In this example, the first modular port flange 744 is a two-inch NPT port type flange, and the second modular port flange 746 is a two-inch standard port type flange. In this illustrative example, respective first and second port flanges 744, 746 comprise the predetermined pattern arrangement of vias 760, 760’ that are complementary to the casing flange coupler receivers 218, 220 on the body 202 of the casing 200. In this example, this allows different types of port flanges (e.g., 744, 746), configured for different target fluid line couplers, to be fastened onto the same pump 500, using fasteners 718.

[0032] In FIGURE 7C, in the example pump 550, a port face 554 comprises a gasket channel 552, in which a gasket 556 is operably disposed. In this way, an appropriate seal can be maintained between the port face 554 and a modular flange 760.

[0033] FIGURE 8A is a component diagram that illustrates one implementation 800 of an example universal -type casing 100, which is operably engaged with two modular, four-inch port flanges 824, 826. In this example, the respective modular port flanges 824, 826 are configured for a four-inch standard coupling engagement with fluid lines that comprise four-inch flange couplers. Further the respective modular port flanges 824, 826 comprise a predetermined arrangement of vias 830, 830’ in a first pattern that is complementary to the casing flange coupler receivers (e.g., 118, 120 of FIGURE 1A), to fasten the modular port flanges 824, 826 to the body 102 of the casing 100 using fasteners. The respective port flanges 824, 826 comprise a pre-determined arrangement of flange coupling bores 832, 832’ in a second pattern that are configured to match an arrangement found on a target fluid line flange, such as for a four-inch fluid line.

[0034] FIGURE 8B is a component diagram illustrating another implementation of an example universal -type pump casing 200 (e.g., from FIGURE 2A) engaged with a pump 500, and coupled with a first modular port flange 844 and a different, second modular port flange 226 (e.g., two-inch port flange from FIGURE 2A). In this example, the first modular port flange 844 has a first diameter that is complementary to the pump casing first port or second port (222). The first modular port flange 844 also has a second diameter, in this case a four-inch standard port type flange. Here, the second modular port flange 226 also has the first diameter, and has a third diameter, that is a two-inch standard port type flange, illustrated prior. In this illustrative example, respective first and second port flanges 844, 226 comprise the predetermined pattern arrangement of vias 860, 230’ that are complementary to the casing flange coupler receivers 218, 220 on the body 202 of the casing 200. In this example, this again shows how the universal-type casing 200 and the respective modular flanges allows different types of port flanges (e.g., 844, 226), configured for different target fluid line couplers, to be fastened onto the same pump 500, using fasteners 228, 228’.

[0035] FIGURE 8C is a component diagram illustrating an alternate implementation of a pump 550, similar to FIGURE 7C. In this implementation, the pump comprises a port face 554 comprises a gasket channel 552, in which a gasket 556 is operably disposed. In this way, an appropriate seal can be maintained between the port face 554 and a modular flange 860.

[0036] FIGURE 9 is a component diagram that illustrates yet another implementation 900 of an example pump casing 100, with two, three inch port flanges 924, 926 attached. In this example, the respective modular port flanges 924, 926 are configured for a three-inch standard coupling engagement with fluid lines that comprise three-inch flange couplers. Further the respective modular port flanges 924, 926 comprise a predetermined arrangement of vias 930, 930’ that are complementary to the casing flange coupler receivers (e.g., 118, 120 of FIGURE 1A), to fasten the modular port flanges 924, 926 to the body 102 of the casing 100 using fasteners. The respective port flanges 924, 926 comprise a pre-determined arrangement of flange coupling bores 932, 932’ that are configured to match an arrangement found on a target fluid line flange, such as for a three-inch fluid line.

[0037] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is, if X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. Further, At least one of A and B and/or the like generally means A or B or both A and B. In addition, the articles “a” and “an” as used in this application and the appended claims may generally be construed to mean “one or more” unless specified otherwise or clear from context to be directed to a singular form.

[0038] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

[0039] Also, although the disclosure has been shown and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art based upon a reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. The disclosure includes all such modifications and alterations and is limited only by the scope of the following claims. In particular regard to the various functions performed by the above described components (e.g., elements, resources, etc.), the terms used to describe such components are intended to correspond, unless otherwise indicated, to any component which performs the specified function of the described component (e.g., that is functionally equivalent), even though not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure which performs the function in the herein illustrated exemplary implementations of the disclosure. In addition, while a particular feature of the disclosure may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “having,” “has,” “with,” or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.”

[0040] The implementations have been described, hereinabove. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the above methods and apparatuses may incorporate changes and modifications without departing from the general scope of this invention. It is intended to include all such modifications and alterations in so far as they come within the scope of the appended claims or the equivalents thereof.