Patent Publication Number: US-2018030967-A1

Title: Aligning reciprocating motion in fluid delivery systems

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present disclosure generally relates to fluid delivery systems. More specifically, but not by limitation, the present disclosure relates to mechanisms used to align reciprocating motion of a fluid pump. 
     There are a wide variety of fluid pumps. Pumps can use mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electrical mechanisms to transfer a fluid material to a surface. They can be used in numerous operations such as industrial and residential spray painting, pressure washing, and insulation application, among others. The type of operation as well as the conditions in which the operation will be performed may influence a determination as to which type of pump should be used. However, some pump features are desired across a wide variety of pumps. For instance, it is desirable to use a pump with the capability of maintaining adequate fluid pressure during operation. 
     SUMMARY 
     A fluid delivery system comprises a motor that is configured to provide rotational motion to a rotary component. The fluid delivery system also comprises an alignment mechanism. The alignment mechanism comprises a first roller that engages a pin at a first end, and a second roller that engages the pin at a second end. The alignment mechanism also includes a coupler that is configured to couple the rotary component to a reciprocating component. Additionally, the alignment mechanism comprises a first alignment cavity that is configured to receive the first roller and a second alignment, and a second cavity that is configured to receive the second roller to align reciprocating motion of the reciprocating component. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view illustrating a fluid delivery system, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective view illustrating a fluid delivery system with a top portion of a housing removed, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a fluid delivery system that includes an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded view illustrating an alignment mechanism in a fluid delivery system, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded view illustrating an alignment mechanism with a motion converting component, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 5  is a front elevation view illustrating a housing that receives an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 6  is a partial front view illustrating an alignment mechanism installed in a motion converting component, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 7  is a side sectional view of an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 8  is a side sectional view of a fluid delivery system that includes an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. 
         FIG. 9  shows a flow diagram of a method of aligning reciprocating motion in a fluid delivery system, in accordance with one embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS 
     Many engines and pumps use reciprocating motion. For example, internal combustion engines use reciprocating motion of a piston to rotate a crankshaft. Pumps such as fluid pumps use reciprocating motion to drive a piston of a hydraulic cylinder. In some embodiments, a motor generates rotational motion, which is converted to reciprocating motion. Conventional mechanisms for converting rotational motion to translational motion (or vice-versa-converting translational motion to rotational motion) may have deficiencies that decrease mechanical efficiency. 
     It is often useful to generate efficient motion. However, it may be challenging to achieve efficiency when generating reciprocating motion, which consists of repetitive movement across a linear plane (i.e. a moving back and forth in a substantially straight line). More specifically, it may be challenging to generate substantially linear reciprocating motion, especially in systems that convert rotary motion to reciprocating motion. 
     Aspects of the present disclosure relate to fluid delivery systems. More particular aspects relate to aligning mechanisms for a fluid pump. While embodiments discussed herein will be broadly described in the context of fluid sprayers, it is expressly contemplated that embodiments are practical for any use of reciprocating motion. 
     In one embodiment, a mechanism for converting rotational motion to translational motion comprises a slider-crank. A slider-crank mechanism comprises one or more joints (e.g. pivot points) or linkages that allow a rotary component to drive linear motion of a slider. Linear motion of a slider may be applied to, for example, a reciprocating component such as a piston of a hydraulic cylinder. 
     In one embodiment of a fluid delivery system, a hydraulic cylinder comprises a mechanical actuator that uses reciprocating piston strokes to distribute a force on a liquid. A piston rod, for example, receives the reciprocating motion from a slider-crank mechanism. The piston rod may be inserted into and retracted out of a cylinder during respective upstroke and downstroke movement of the piston. The cylinder may be closed at a first end by a cylinder head, and closed at second end by a cylinder base. 
     Where a piston rod is received in a cylinder, the conversion of motion by, for example, a slider-crank mechanism, may produce motion with undesirable variances. For instance, in conventional fluid delivery systems, reciprocating motion may undesirably deviate from a linear plane respective a receiving portion for the piston. Typical arrangements include mechanisms positioned at the end of a piston to accept rotational motion and transfer that motion to movement of the piston. However, such an arrangement generates horizontal force that produces cantilevered side loading on a piston seal, thereby causing undesirable wear to said components. This can decrease the longevity of a pump. In another typical arrangement, an intermediary component is positioned to attempt to ensure the piston remains in-line. However, such an arrangement is complicated to manufacture, and therefore expensive to produce. 
     As such, there may be a need for a fluid delivery system that generates efficient reciprocating motion by using an alignment mechanism that aligns a reciprocating component. More particularly, but not by limitation, there is a need for a low cost mechanism that reduces side loading of a piston during the translation of rotational motion to reciprocating motion. 
       FIG. 1A  is a perspective view illustrating a fluid delivery system  100 , in accordance with one embodiment. Fluid delivery system  100  illustratively comprises a portable paint sprayer that is configured to spray atomized paint onto a variety of surfaces. Fluid delivery system  100 , in one embodiment, is mounted to cart  110 . Cart  110  comprises wheels  112  that are attached to a cart and configured to allow system  100  to be a mobile system. For example, an operator can transport fluid delivery system  100  to a desired location for painting. In another embodiment, cart  110  comprises skids that stably support the system on a surface. 
     In the illustrated example, fluid delivery system  100  comprises motor assembly  102  (hidden underneath housing  108  in  FIG. 1A ), alignment mechanism  104  (hidden underneath housing  108  in  FIG. 1A ), pump assembly  106  (hidden underneath housing  108  in  FIG. 1A ), housing  108 , and pump actuator  114 . 
     In one embodiment, pump assembly  106  is configured to generate a pressurized flow of fluid that is provided to an outlet port  120 . The outlet port is coupled to a tube, hose, or other component that provides a flow path to an applicator, such as a spray gun. Pump assembly  106  comprises a fluid inlet path  118  that is configured to receive the fluid from a fluid source (not shown). For instance, fluid inlet path  114  is coupled to a hose that is placed in a paint container or other reservoir that stores paint to be used for application. The fluid is transported through an inlet path due to suction created by pump assembly  106 . In one embodiment, a fluid return path provides a return flow of fluid to the paint container. For instance, the return path (not shown) returns paint to the container during priming of pump  106 . 
     Pump assembly  106  can be one of a variety of different types of pumping mechanisms. In one embodiment, pump assembly  106  comprises a hydraulic displacement pump. In the illustrated example, pump assembly  106  comprises a reciprocating piston pump, in which a hydraulic cylinder receives a piston. A hydraulic cylinder comprises a mechanical actuator that distributes a force on a liquid using reciprocating piston strokes. As such, pump  106  can perform mechanical work to move a fluid. 
     Fluid delivery system  100  comprises housing  108 . Housing  108  is configured to house motor assembly  102 , alignment mechanism  104 , and pump assembly  106 . Housing  108  is illustratively secured to cart  110  by mounting mechanism  116 . In one embodiment, pump housing  108  is removable to access various components. 
       FIG. 1B  is a perspective view illustrating fluid delivery system  100  with components (such as housing  108 ) removed for illustrative purposes. 
     Pump assembly  106  is driven by a motor assembly  102 . Fluid delivery system  100  further illustratively comprises pump actuator  114 , which is coupled to motor assembly  102  and pump assembly  106 . Pump actuator  114 , in one embodiment, comprises a motor control unit that is configured to control fluid delivery operations. An operator of fluid delivery system  100  can thus engage pump actuator  114  to control fluid pressure, motor speed, or other system variables. 
     In one embodiment, motor assembly  102  generates rotational motion and imparts said motion to alignment mechanism  104 . For example, motor assembly  102  imparts rotary motion to a drive shaft that is coupled to alignment mechanism  104 . It is illustratively shown that alignment mechanism  104  is housed in alignment housing  122 . 
     Alignment mechanism  104  transfers the motion imparted by motor system  102  to pumping mechanism  106 . In one embodiment, alignment mechanism  104  converts rotary motion from motor assembly  102  to reciprocating motion, and applies the converted motion to pumping mechanism  106 . In addition to converting rotary motion to reciprocating motion, alignment mechanism  104  may also be configured to substantially align components of pumping mechanism  106  to increase efficiency. 
       FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a fluid delivery system  200  that includes an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. Fluid delivery system  200  illustratively comprises drive components  210 , alignment mechanism  220 , and pumping mechanism  240 . Fluid delivery system  200  may be similar to the fluid delivery system described with respect to  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  (e.g. system  100 ). 
     Fluid delivery system  200  may be a wide variety of fluid delivery pump configurations such as, but not limited to, hydraulic, pneumatic, mechanical, etc. In one embodiment, fluid delivery system  200  comprises a positive-displacement piston pump. A variety of fluid delivery systems mechanisms may also be used, such as, but not limited to, airless, air-assisted, air-assisted airless, etc. 
     Drive components  210  illustratively comprise power source  202 , motor controller  204 , motor  206 , and rotary shaft  208 . In one embodiment, motor  206  receives power from power source  202 . Motor  206  may be a variety of motors such as, but not limited to, an electric motor. For example, motor  206  comprises a brushless DC electric motor. In an embodiment where motor  206  is an electric motor, for example, power source  202  comprises a battery that stores energy. 
     Motor controller  204  is configured to manually, automatically, and/or remotely control operation of motor  206 . For instance, motor controller  204  regulates the amount of power that is provided from power source  202  to motor  206 . In one embodiment, motor controller  204  comprises a motor control switch that that can be actuated by an operator (e.g. similar to pump actuator  114 ) to control fluid delivery. As such, fluid delivery system  100  is configured to allow an operator to control output of pumping mechanism  212  by, for instance, using a motor control switch. 
     Motor  206 , in one embodiment, generates rotational motion. It is illustratively shown that motor  206  is operably coupled to rotary shaft  208 . Rotary shaft  208  comprises, in one embodiment, a drive shaft. For instance, rotary shaft  208  comprises one or more gears such as a gear chain. Motor  206  is therefore configured to impart rotational motion to rotary shaft  208 . The rotation of rotary shaft  208 , and thus the direction of motion produced by motor  206 , may be uni-directional (e.g. the drive shaft receives either clock-wise or counter clock-wise rotational motion). Alternatively, the rotation of rotary shaft  208 , and thus the direction of motion produced by motor  206 , may be bi-directional (e.g. the drive shaft receives alternating rotational motion-alternating between clock-wise and counter clock-wise directions). 
     As similarly discussed above with respect to  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 1B  (e.g. fluid delivery system  100 ), pumping mechanism  212  uses one or more components to convert the either uni-directional or bi-directional motion to reciprocating motion. In one embodiment, fluid delivery system  200  converts rotational motion of rotary shaft  208  to reciprocating motion of pumping mechanism  212  (e.g. reciprocating piston strokes within a hydraulic cylinder to distribute a force on a liquid) by using alignment mechanism  220 . 
     Alignment mechanism  220  illustratively comprises rotary component  222 , pin  224 , coupler  226 , reciprocating component  228 , rollers  230 , and alignment cavity  232 . Rotary component  222  is illustratively coupled to rotary shaft  208  at a first end and configured to receive rotational motion from rotary shaft  208  to rotate about an axis (e.g. an axis parallel to rotary shaft  208 ). In one embodiment, rotary component  222  comprises a crank component of a slider-crank mechanism. However, it is noted that that rotary component  222  may be a variety of other components configured to receive rotational motion. 
     At a second end, rotary component  222  illustratively engages pin  224 . In one embodiment, rotary component  222  comprises a receiving portion that is configured to pivotally engage pin  224 . For instance, pin  224  is inserted into the receiving portion of the rotary component to provide a surface that rotary component  224  rotates about. As rotary component  222  rotates about an axis, pin  224  moves in a substantially linear direction that is perpendicular to an axis of rotary shaft  208 . As such, a pivotable engagement between rotary component  222  and pin  224  facilitates the conversion of rotary motion to reciprocating motion. 
     In the illustrated embodiment, pin  224  also engages coupler  226 . Coupler  226  comprises a receiving portion configured to receive pin  224  such that pin  224  extends through coupler  226 . In one embodiment, coupler  226  is positioned near a bottom surface of rotary component  222  and receives pin  224  such that pin  224  is inserted through the receiving portions of both coupler  226  and rotary component  222 . Thus, pin  224  forms an engagement between rotary component  222  and coupler  226 . 
     Coupler  226  is illustratively coupled to reciprocating component  228  (e.g. by engaging a head of a reciprocating piston). As such, in one embodiment, coupler  226  couples rotary component  222  to reciprocating component  228 . Although a pivotable connection allows for a reciprocating component to perform repeated up-stroke and down-stroke motion, there may be deficiencies in maintaining the reciprocating component in a substantially linear plane. 
     For instance, there may be a desire for a mechanism that guides the conversion of motion such that the reciprocation of component  228  does not deviate from the center of a linear plane (e.g. a vertical plane perpendicular to an axis of a rotary shaft). Conventional mechanisms may attempt to reduce deviations with software or hardware components that are expensive to manufacture. A mechanism is disclosed herein that reduces the deviation of a piston from the center of a linear plane during conversion of rotary motion to reciprocating motion at reduced manufacturing and development costs. 
       FIG. 2  illustratively shows that, in one embodiment, rollers  230  are coupled to pin  224 . In one example, pin  224  comprises a cylindrical rod. The cylindrical rod extends, for example, past the receiving portion of rotary component  222  to provide a protruding surface for engaging other components of fluid delivery system  200 . For example, a protruding surface at each end of pin  224  engages rollers  230 . In one embodiment, each end of pin  224  engages a single roller  230 . However, it is noted that fewer or additional rollers may be used. 
     It has illustratively been shown that pin  224  is multi-purpose. In addition to providing a pivotable surface that couples rotary component  222  to reciprocating component  228  via coupler  226 , pin  224  is configured to facilitate the alignment of reciprocating component  228 , in part, by engaging rollers  230 . 
     Rollers  230  comprise, in one embodiment, one or more wheels configured to slidably engage alignment cavity  232 . Rollers  230  may also or alternatively be a variety of other shapes that are received at alignment cavity  232 . For example, rollers  230  comprise a rectangular shaped member that is received within alignment cavity  232  (e.g. alignment cavity  232  is a rectangular shaped cavity with a surface area greater than that of the roller). In one embodiment, rollers  230  comprise a substantially plastic material. Rollers  230  may comprise a variety of other materials as well, such as metal, fiber-reinforced plastic, etc. 
     Alignment cavity  232  comprises, in one embodiment, a recessed portion of housing  234 . Housing  234  comprises an enclosure that surrounds alignment mechanism  220  in fluid delivery system  200 . In one embodiment, housing  234  is separate from a housing that encloses the fluid delivery system (e.g. housing  234  is separate from pump housing  108 ). In another embodiment, housing  234  comprises a housing of the fluid delivery system (e.g. housing  234  is a component of pump housing  108 ). As such, alignment cavity  232  can include any portion of a housing, or surrounding structure, that is configured to receive rollers  230 . In an alternative embodiment, alignment cavity  232  comprises a structure that is separate from a housing or enclosure. 
     In one embodiment, alignment cavity  232  is manufactured with reduced cost by removing portions of an existing housing structure to accommodate alignment components (e.g. alignment cavity  232 ). This allows for previously manufactured pumping systems to be retro-fitted or re-purposed with an alignment mechanism by generating an alignment cavity that receives sliding alignment members (e.g. rollers  230 ). For example, in an embodiment where housing  234  comprises a plastic material, alignment cavity  232  may be added to the housing by tooling the cavity into the housing. The cavity may be positioned at the desired location that allow rollers  230  to engage a protruding surface of pin  224 . 
     As will be discussed in further detail below, rollers  230  and alignment cavity  232  may be configured to guide reciprocating component  228  as it receives motion from rotary component  222 . In one embodiment, rollers  230  slide up and down within cavity  232  as rotary component  222  is rotated by drive components  210 . As such, reciprocating motion of reciprocating component  228  is substantially fixed, relative to the area of cavity  232  engaged by rollers  230 . 
     Reciprocating component  228  may be a variety of components compatible with pumping mechanism  240 . In one embodiment, reciprocating component  224  comprises a piston that is received in piston cylinder  244 . Piston cylinder  244  comprises, for example, a hydraulic cylinder. As such,  FIG. 2  illustratively shows that reciprocating member  224  is coupled to pumping mechanism  212 . 
     Reciprocating motion of reciprocating member  224  draws fluid into, and pumps fluid out of pumping mechanism  212 . In order to supply a fluid to the fluid pump, pumping mechanism  212  is illustratively coupled to fluid source  214  via fluid inlet  216 . Fluid inlet  216  therefore provides a fluid connection between pumping mechanism  212  and fluid source  214 . In one embodiment, fluid inlet  216  comprises a suction component that is disposed within fluid source  250 , and generates a suction to draw fluid into pumping mechanism  212 . As such, on an upstroke of reciprocating member  224 , fluid from fluid source  214  may be drawn into pumping mechanism  212  via fluid inlet  216 . Pumping mechanism  212  also comprises fluid outlet  218 . In one embodiment, fluid outlet  218  is a valve on a painting system that is configured to receive an outlet hose (e.g. a spray gun attachment). On a downstroke of reciprocating member  224 , fluid is pumped out of pumping mechanism  212 . 
     Thus, as rotary shaft  208  is rotated, motion converting component  210  converts the rotation to reciprocating motion of reciprocating member  224 , which performs sequential upstroke and downstroke movement to deliver a fluid in pumping mechanism  212 . Motor  206  can generate hundreds or thousands of upstroke and downstroke reciprocations per second or minute to pump a fluid at a high pressure out of for example, a fluid spray tip. 
     It is generally desirable to utilize a fluid delivery system with a durable and reliable pumping mechanism. However, while a high rate of reciprocation produces high pressure (which is beneficial for spraying applications), in conventional systems it may cause undesirable damage to a piston cylinder, piston, support bearings, and other pump components. As an example, a reciprocating member (e.g. a pump shaft, piston, etc.) may be slightly misaligned with a receiving piston cylinder during pumping operation. The piston may be forced against walls of the cylinder due to slight variances in the angle between a crank member and reciprocating member. Variances in fluid pressure may also cause the downstroke depth and upstroke return height of reciprocating member to vary as well. 
     Even a slight misalignment that causes the reciprocating member to deviate from a linear plane upon generation of upstroke and downstroke motion may damage components and reduce the longevity of the pump. For instance, a seal between a cylinder and a piston may become deformed or loosened. This may also cause unpredictable changes in fluid pressure. It is desirable to maintain consistent fluid pressure within a fluid delivery system as variances in pressure may cause uneven spray patterns, tailing, and edge smearing. Even when a high pressure output is not required, it should be noted that it remains largely beneficial to utilize a mechanism that facilitates consistent motion conversion and the alignment of a reciprocating component. 
       FIG. 3  is an exploded view illustrating alignment mechanism  320  in fluid delivery system  300 , in accordance with one embodiment. In one embodiment, fluid delivery system  300  and alignment mechanism  320  include similar features to those discussed with respect to  FIG. 2  (e.g. fluid delivery system  200  and alignment mechanism  220 ). 
     Fluid delivery system  300  illustratively comprises rotary component  308 . Rotary component  308  receives rotational motion from a motor assembly (e.g. motor  206 ) and comprises a gear assembly that imparts rotational motion to alignment mechanism  320 . It is illustratively shown that a gear of rotary component  308  comprises an axis portion  352  that is configured to engage a protruding portion  356  of eccentric  358 . Eccentric  358  can therefore be fixed to rotary component  308  in a position that is offset (e.g. offset from the center) from a center axis, and thus offset from a center line of rotary component  308 , for example. Axis portion  352  and eccentric  358  are illustratively received by a bearing assembly  354  disposed at alignment housing  334  (e.g. housing  234 ). Bearing assembly  354 , in one embodiment, facilitates the transfer of rotational motion from axis portion  352  to eccentric  358 . 
     Rotational motion that is applied to eccentric  358  is further transferred to alignment mechanism  320 . Alignment mechanism  320  illustratively comprises rotary component  322 . Rotary component  322  comprises, in one embodiment, strap  360 , which is configured to receive eccentric  358 . For example, strap  360  comprises a collar with a bearing assembly disposed at an interior portion of the collar. The bearing assembly is configured to receive eccentric  358  and allow eccentric  358  to rotate, thereby imparting rotational motion to rotary component  322 . It is noted that a variety of motion imparting mechanisms can be used in addition or alternatively to those described herein. While an eccentric sheave and strap are primarily discussed, rotational motion can be generated and transferred to rotary component  322  in a variety of different ways. 
     Thus, in one embodiment, rotary component  322  rotates about an axis to generate a rotational pattern of movement. Rotary component  322  illustratively comprises a base portion  378  that is disposed at an opposite end, for example, of strap  360  at which eccentric  358  is received. 
       FIG. 4  is an exploded view illustrating an alignment mechanism with a motion converting component, in accordance with one embodiment. In one embodiment, alignment mechanism  420  illustratively comprises the same or similar features discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  (e.g. alignment mechanism  320 ).  FIG. 3  and  FIG. 4  will now be described in conjunction. 
     Near base portion  378 , rotary component  322  comprises receiving portion  364  and  366 . In one embodiment, receiving portion  364  and  366  are configured to receive pin  324  such that pin  324  extends past the body of the rotary component. Receiving portions  364  and  366  include, for example, a diameter that is larger than a diameter of pin  324  such that pin  324  has at least some freedom of movement (e.g. allows for rotation with friction between the body of component  322  and an exterior surface of pin  324 ) while inserted in component  322 . 
     Rollers  330  each comprise a receiving portion, generally shown at reference numerals  362  and  368 . Receiving portions  362  and  368  comprise a diameter that is larger than a diameter of pin  324  such that pin  324  is configured to rotate while inserted in rollers  330 . In one embodiment, the diameter of receiving portions  368  and  362  is the same or substantially the same as the diameter of receiving portions  364  and  366 . 
     Additionally, alignment mechanism  320  illustratively comprises reciprocating component  328 . Reciprocating component  328  comprises a coupler  326  attached at a first end. Coupler  326  illustratively includes receiving portion  370 . Receiving portion  370  is also configured to receive pin  324  such that the pin can rotate within the coupler. In one embodiment, receiving portion  370  comprises a diameter that is larger than a diameter of pin  324  (e.g. receiving portion  370  has the same diameter as receiving portions  362 ,  364 ,  366 , and  368 ). 
     As such, in one embodiment, alignment mechanism  320  uses pin  324  to facilitate a coupling between rotary component  322  and reciprocating component  328 . Pin  324  can be inserted into receiving portion  362  of a first roller  330 , receiving portion  364  of rotary component, receiving portion  370  of coupler  326 , receiving portion  366  of rotary component  322 , and receiving portion  368  of a second roller  330 . 
     During pumping operation, for example, the aforementioned coupling converts rotation of rotary component  322  to translational motion of reciprocating component  328 . Reciprocating component  328  is translatably disposed within a bushing  344 . The busing  344  is retained within a surrounding pump housing by a retaining mechanism. In one embodiment, bushing  344  engages seal  384 . For example, seal  384  is an O-ring configured to form a sealing engagement with bushing  344 . As such, the reciprocating motion (e.g. repeated up-stroke and down-stroke movement) of reciprocating component  328  is applied to a hydraulic cylinder to pressurize fluid in a fluid path. Bushing  344  is, in one embodiment, a rigid structure that extends vertically with respect to reciprocating component  328  (e.g. a piston). Therefore, it is desirable to move a piston in and out of a cylinder, for example, without pressing against the walls of the bushing or a supporting structure (e.g. a sealing) such as O-ring  384 . 
     However, deviation from a substantially linear plane (e.g. a plane that a piston is to be received within a cylinder) during the process of converting rotational motion of a rotary component to reciprocating motion of a piston can occur. Therefore, the coupling of rotary component  322  with reciprocating component  328  comprises mechanisms for aligning the conversion of motion such that reciprocation of a piston is substantially vertical with respect to a receiving cylinder. 
       FIGS. 3 and 4  illustratively show that rollers  330  engage alignment cavity  332 . In one embodiment, alignment cavity  332  comprises a recessed portion of alignment housing  334  and is configured to engage rollers  330  such that they slide within the cavity during operation of the pumping mechanism. Rollers  330 , in one embodiment, roll within alignment cavity  332  and are configured to reduce friction and improve efficiency. In an embodiment where rollers  330  are configured to roll, alignment mechanism  320  reduces heat generation, which can otherwise be detrimental to system operation. Alignment housing portion  372  may also include alignment cavity  332  (not shown in current view of  FIG. 3 ) that is configured to receive roller  330 . Briefly, it is also illustratively shown that fluid delivery system  300  may use an exterior housing portion  374  to enclose and secure the various components of the system (e.g. alignment mechanism  320  components, rotary gear components  308 , etc.). Therefore, as rotary component  322  rotates, rollers  330  confine the translational motion of reciprocating component  328  to a fixed range of motion. For example, the fixed range of motion is defined by an area of cavity  332  that the rollers slide along. Further, rollers  330  may be configured to oppose a side force from rotary component  322 . Opposing a side force may include, for example, removing a cantilevered load that is applied to reciprocating component  328 . As such, rollers  330  are configured to, in one embodiment, transmit substantially in-line forces only (e.g. in-line with a vertical plane of reciprocating component  328 ). 
     In addition,  FIGS. 3 and 4  illustratively show that alignment mechanism  320  comprises mechanisms that self-align reciprocating component  328 . For example, it is illustratively shown that coupler  326  comprises slot  376 . In one embodiment, slot  376  comprises a T-slot that is configured to allow reciprocating component  328  to move within the slot. T-slot  376  may therefore comprise a self-centering mechanism that aligns reciprocating component  328  in the direction generally indicated by arrow  380  shown in  FIG. 4  by allowing the reciprocating component to move back and forth within the slot with reduced friction. Further, in one embodiment, alignment mechanism  320  is configured to self-align in the direction generally indicated by arrow  382  shown in  FIG. 4 . For example, coupler  326  is configured to translate along pin  324  between base portion  378  of rotary component  322  in the directions generally indicated by arrow  382 . 
       FIG. 5  is a front elevation view illustrating a housing that receives an alignment mechanism, in accordance with one embodiment. In one embodiment, alignment mechanism  520  illustratively comprises the same or similar features discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  (e.g. alignment mechanism  320 ). However, it is noted that alignment mechanism  520  can include different or additional components and is not limited to those discussed herein. 
     It is shown in  FIG. 5  that, in one embodiment, pin  524  is inserted into roller  530 , rotary component  522 , and coupler  526 . As such, in one embodiment,  FIG. 5  illustratively shows an assembled alignment mechanism  520  that confines movement of reciprocating component  528  to an area defined by alignment cavity  532 , which slidably receives rollers  530 . 
       FIG. 6  is a partial front view illustrating an alignment mechanism installed in a motion converting component, in accordance with one embodiment.  FIG. 6  illustratively includes an alignment mechanism  620  that receives roller  630  within alignment cavity  632  of housing  634 . Alignment mechanism  620  comprises, in one embodiment, the same or similar features discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  (e.g. alignment mechanism  320 ).  FIG. 6  illustratively shows that various components (e.g. a second housing portion  372 , a rotary component  322 , and a pin  324 , among others) have been removed for illustrative purposes. Thus, it is shown in  FIG. 6  that roller  630  is configured to include a surface area that allows the roller to be received within alignment cavity  632 . Roller  630  is configured to slide and/or roll within alignment cavity  632  which comprises, in one embodiment, a recessed portion of housing  634 . During operation, for example, roller  630  prevents attached components (e.g. components removed from  FIG. 6  for purpose of illustration) from deviating past a plane of motion defined by the slidable area of cavity  632  that is engaged by roller  630 . Alignment cavity  632  may be a variety of alignment configurations. For example, alignment cavity  632  comprises an opening or removed portion in housing  634  configured to allow roller  630  to protrude past housing  634  and engage an outer surface of the housing. 
       FIG. 7  is a side sectional view of an alignment mechanism  720 , in accordance with one embodiment. In one embodiment, alignment mechanism  720  comprises the same or similar features discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  (e.g. alignment mechanism  320 ). It is illustratively shown that some of the components discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  are provided in  FIG. 7  with corresponding reference numerals. For example, but not by limitation, eccentric  758  may include the same or similar features discussed with respect to eccentric  358 , roller  730  may include the same or similar features discussed with respect to roller  330 , coupler  726  may include the same or similar features discussed with respect to coupler  326 , etc. As such, discussion of  FIG. 3  and the interrelation of various components is hereby incorporated with reference to the interrelated features shown in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 8  is a side sectional view of a fluid delivery system  800  that includes alignment mechanism (generally indicated by arrow  820 ), in accordance with one embodiment. In one embodiment, alignment mechanism  820  comprises the same or similar features discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  (e.g. alignment mechanism  320 ). It is illustratively shown that some of the components discussed with respect to  FIG. 3  are provided in  FIG. 8  with corresponding reference numerals. For example, but not by limitation, reciprocating component  828  may include the same or similar features as reciprocating component  328 , rotary component  822  may include the same or similar features as rotary component  322 , alignment cavity  832  may include the same or similar features as alignment cavity  332 , etc. As such, discussion of  FIG. 3  and the interrelation of various components is hereby incorporated with reference to the interrelated features shown in  FIG. 8 . In one embodiment, it is illustratively shown that rollers  830  engage at least alignment cavity  832  to traverse along the vertical path generally indicated by double arrow  801 . 
       FIG. 9  shows a flow diagram of a method  900  of aligning reciprocating motion in a fluid delivery system, in accordance with one embodiment. At block  902 , it is illustratively shown that a pumping mechanism is engaged. In one embodiment, an operator engages an actuator to control operation of a motor that drives a fluid delivery system. For example, an operator engages motor controller  204  to initiate motor  206  and begin a fluid delivery operation. At block  904 , a fluid delivery system generates rotary motion. In one embodiment, a motor is configured to generate rotary motion that is imparted to a rotary shaft. For example, motor  206  generates rotational motion and is coupled to rotary shaft  208  such that rotary shaft  208  rotates about an axis. 
       FIG. 9  further illustratively includes block  906 , which generally shows that an alignment mechanism is engaged. In one embodiment, engaging an alignment mechanism comprises imparting rotational motion from a rotary component to the alignment mechanism. For example, rotary shaft  208  is coupled to rotary component  222  and imparts said motion to the rotary component to engage alignment mechanism  220 . As such, engaging an alignment mechanism comprises generating at least some motion that is applied to the mechanism to facilitate fluid delivery during pumping, for example. 
     At block  908 , method  900  illustratively comprises converting motion with a motion converting component. In one embodiment, block  908  comprises converting imparted rotational motion to reciprocating motion. For example, a fluid delivery system uses one or more components to generate translational motion from rotational motion that is provided by a motor. An alignment mechanism (e.g. alignment mechanism  220 ) utilizes one or more components (e.g. rotary component  222 , pin  224 , coupler  226 , reciprocating component  228 , etc.) to convert rotational motion from a rotary shaft (e.g. rotary shaft  208 ) to reciprocating motion that is applied to a pumping mechanism (e.g. pumping mechanism  240 ). 
     As discussed above, conventional systems may lose efficiency or damage parts when converting motion. However, embodiments described herein align converted motion using an alignment mechanism, for example, to prevent efficiency loss and damage to parts. This is generally indicated by block  910  of method  900 . In one embodiment, aligning converted motion comprises utilizing a unique interaction of motion converting components with portions of a fluid delivery system to restrict variances in translational motion. In one embodiment, block  910  comprises a step of decreasing variances in motion of a reciprocating member (e.g. reciprocating component  228 ) as it travels along a substantially vertical plane during repeated up-stroke and down-stroke movements. To decrease variances, an alignment mechanism illustratively uses pivot rod  922  to couple crank slider-mechanism  916  with slidable wheels  918 . Slidable wheels  918 , in one embodiment, engage alignment cavity in housing  920  to confine movement of crank-slider mechanism  916 . The confined range of motion of crank-slider mechanism  916 , for example, provides a strict linear path for a reciprocating member (e.g. reciprocating component  228 ) to travel. 
     As such, method  900  also includes the step of maintaining pressure that is generated by a pumping mechanism. This is generally indicated at block  912 . In one embodiment, in response to aligning converted motion in accordance with block  910 , a pumping mechanism (e.g. pumping mechanism  240 ) maintains a consistent fluid pressure in a fluid path. As discussed above, consistent pressure of a fluid path is a desirable feature for a variety of fluid delivery systems as it allows for even spray patterns with decreased tailing or fading effects. 
     At block  914 , it is illustratively shown that method  900  comprises delivering fluid material. In one embodiment, delivering fluid material comprises pressurizing a fluid material within a hydraulic cylinder (e.g. piston cylinder  244 ) and providing that pressurized fluid material to an outlet path. For example, the pressurized fluid material (e.g. paint) is delivered to a sprayer (e.g. sprayer  248 ). An operator may use sprayer  248 , for example, to dispense the processed fluid to a variety of surfaces. 
     The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for the purposes of illustration. These descriptions are not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments discussed herein.