Importance

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Abstract

An electric shifting mechanism for a fluid-powered diaphragm pump is provided. The shifting mechanism includes a controller programmed to switch the pump at timed intervals, a solenoid valve and an end of stroke valve. The end of stroke valve translates the pneumatic end of stroke signals generated by the pilot valve into electric signals. The electric signals are then transmitted to the controller. The controller sends timed switch signals to an operator of the solenoid valve. The operator shifts the solenoid valve which transmits a pilot signal generated from the compressed air supply to either the right or the left pilot signal port of the main air valve. The main air valve does not receive pilot signals directly from the pilot valve but, in turn, receives its pilot signals from the solenoid valve which receives signals from the controller. The controller receives end of stroke signals from the end of stroke valve which translates the pneumatic signals generated by the pilot valve into electric signals. The controller than compares the end of stroke signals received from the end of stroke valve with the pre-programmed timed intervals and provides an indication or an alarm if the controller is programmed to shift the pump before the pump reaches the end of its stroke. The solenoid valve and end of stroke valve may be easily incorporated into existing pumps.

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First Claim