A valveless piezoelectric pump based on the coupling structure of a Venturi tube and an airfoil bluff body

Abstract

The valveless piezoelectric pump has the advantages of simple structure, high reliability, and no electromagnetic interference. It has been widely applied in various fields. However, the collaborative optimization of its performance and miniaturization still poses challenges. This study presents a valveless piezoelectric pump with a coupled Venturi tube-airfoil bluff body structure. Airfoil bluff bodies are positioned within the cavity in accordance with the golden ratio. Utilizing Venturi jet acceleration and airfoil unidirectional flow, the forward-reverse flow resistance discrepancy is enhanced to suppress backflow. Theoretical analysis establishes a flow rate-flow resistance coefficient correlation model, verifying optimal flow rate within the natural frequency range. Numerical simulations support prototype parameter design. Experiments confirm optimal parameters: Venturi tube (10° inlet contraction, 15° outlet expansion) and three airfoil bluff bodies (1.5/2.427 mm spacings, 3/2.6/2.8 mm heights). At 160 V and 120 Hz, the valveless piezoelectric pump attains a peak fluid delivery rate of 143.25 ml min−1. This novel structure provides a new approach for valveless piezoelectric pump performance optimization, with promising applications in precision fluid delivery and related fields.