Kinematics of an Epicyclic Gear Pump

Abstract

A novel gear pump employing epicyclic gears is introduced. The geometric constraints of the system are stated, the kinematic requirements for its successful operation are discussed and determined by means of the method of the instantaneous centers. In terms of performance, the pump is characterized by a high displacement rate, similar to that of a piston pump. However, the geometry and the kinematics of the two systems are different. White in the case of a piston pump the pumping action is due to the reciprocal linear motion of the piston, in the case of an epicyclic gear pump it is due to the relative motion of the planet gears. Further, during the operation of the epicyclic gear pump none of its elements changes the direction of its motion.