Filter press adapter

Abstract

A filter press apparatus includes a support frame and elongated side rails disposed parallel and horizontally on the support frame. A driven head assembly is disposed on an end of the support frame and a driven head assembly is movably disposed on another end of the support frame. The elongated side rails support different size filter plate combinations through one or more adapters. Adapter plates are interposed between adjacent filter plates of different sizes to provide fluid communication between the different size filter plates.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 036,718, filed June 9, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background of the Invention Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to a filter press apparatus. More specifically, this disclosure relates to an adapter for a filter press apparatus. Background Technology

[0006] Filter presses are well-known and widely used for separating solids from slurries. Briefly referring to Figure 13, a conventional filter press assembly will now be described to aid in understanding the general operation of the filter press assembly. The filter press 1300 utilizes a series of plates 1310 to filter media, such as slurries. The plates 1310 include filter plates 1312 and frame plates 1314 arranged adjacent to each other in an alternating configuration, such that each frame plate 1314 is adjacent to two filter plates 1312. The plates 1310 also include end plates 1316 configured to contact and interface with one of the fixed head mechanism 1340 and the driven head 1352. Each plate 1310 is independently and slidably supported on a frame 1320 by a pair of elongated side rails 1330. The support arm 1332 of each plate 1310 interacts with one of the elongated side rails 1330. In this way, the lateral distance between the elongated side rails 1330 defines the size of the plate 1310 that can be used with the filter press 1310.

[0007] The driven head mechanism 1350 includes a driven head 1352 adjacent to an end plate 1316, and optionally a controller 1354 and a hydraulic cylinder 1356, which together provide power and command to the driven head 1352. The space defined between each filter plate 1312 and the frame plate 1314 is lined with filter media, such as filter cloth or filter membrane. The cavity is defined by the frame plate 1314, wherein the filter media is arranged on each side of the frame plate 1314.

[0008] Each plate 1310 includes one or more orifices that permit fluid communication between the filter plate 1312 and the frame plate 1314. In this manner, the filtration surface area increases proportionally to the number of filter plates 1312 and frame plates 1314 used with the filter press 1300. Slurry is pumped in via the stationary head mechanism 1340 and through the filter press 1300 and / or end plates 1316 for collection of solids in the form of filter cake in the internal cavities defined by the frame plates 1314. One or more inlets of each frame plate 1314 are provided to introduce slurry into the internal cavities on the upstream side of the filter media, and one or more outlets communicate with each internal cavity on the downstream side of the filter media. Once the internal cavities in the frame plates 1314 are filled with slurry, the delivery pressure into the slurry is adjusted so that the liquid constituent is displaced through the filter media and the solid particulate matter is retained within the internal cavities upstream of the filter media. The filtered liquid or filtrate moves to the outlet where it is discharged. The filtration cycle continues until completion.

[0009] In some embodiments, upon completion, the driven head 1352 is retracted from the plates 1310. The plates 1310 are moved apart from one another to an open position to permit discharge of the filter cake collected in the frame plates 1314. To permit the plates 1310 to move to the open position, plate displacement mechanisms are typically provided on adjacent opposite sides of the filter press 1300 to permit automatic or manual control of the plate 1310 movement and filter cake discharge.

[0010] While filter press devices are available in a range of sizes, each filter press device is limited to accepting a constrained range of plate sizes. This constraint is because each respective plate is individually supported on the elongated side rails of the filter press, and the distance between the elongated side rails is fixed and defined by the filter press device. Plates that are too large do not fit between the elongated side rails, while plates that are too small slip through the elongated side rails because the support mechanism for the plates that are too small cannot reach both elongated side rails. Moreover, if a plate that is too small can be accommodated on the elongated side rails, its inlets and outlets are not aligned with the inlets and outlets of the media so that fluid communication in the filter press device cannot exist.

[0011] Accordingly, prior to the present disclosure, there was a need to modularly combine filter plates of different sizes with conventional filter press device of different sizes.

[0012] The information disclosed in the Background of the Invention section is only for the purpose of enhancing the understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms prior art known to those skilled in the art. SUMMARY

[0013] Advantageously, the systems and methods detailed in the present disclosure address the shortcomings in the prior art detailed above. Disclosed herein is a filter press apparatus capable of accommodating plates of different sizes. The filter press apparatus includes a support frame. A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are disposed parallel to each other on a first side and a second side of the support frame, respectively. A fixed head assembly is disposed on a first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The fixed head assembly includes a first array of channels defined by a first length. A driven head assembly is disposed on a second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The driven head assembly is movable along a longitudinal direction of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail toward and away from the fixed head assembly. A plurality of plates are supported above and between the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail by one or more frame adapters. The one or more adapters slidably couple each plate of the plurality of plates to the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Each respective plate of the plurality of plates includes a second array of channels defined by a first second. Each respective plate of the plurality of plates also includes a first support arm and a second support arm extending outwardly from opposing side surfaces of the respective plate. Each respective support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Further, each respective support arm is accommodated by a frame adapter of the one or more frame adapters. The plurality of plates traverse between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with movement of the driven head assembly. An adapter plate is interposed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly. The adapter plate includes a first surface abutting an adjacent surface of an end plate of the plurality of plates, and a second surface opposite the first surface and abutting an adjacent surface of the fixed head assembly. Additionally, the adapter plate includes a plurality of channels. Each respective channel of the plurality of channels traverses from the first surface to the second surface and connects a corresponding channel of the first array of channels on the first surface to a corresponding channel of the second array of channels on the second surface. In this manner, fluid communication is provided between the plurality of plates and the fixed head via the adapter plate.

[0014] In some embodiments, each of the one or more frame adapters includes a support frame adapter. The support frame adapter includes a first enclosure portion and a second enclosure portion. The second enclosure portion is opposite the first enclosure portion and removably coupled to the first enclosure portion. Each of the first enclosure portion and the second enclosure portion of the support frame adapter includes a first recess, a second recess, and a coupling mechanism. The first recess is disposed at a first edge portion of the enclosure portion and is configured to accommodate a portion of a support arm. The coupling mechanism is configured to removably couple with a corresponding coupling mechanism of an opposite enclosure portion of the support frame adapter. The second recess is disposed at a second edge portion of the enclosure portion and is configured to support a respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

[0015] In some embodiments, for each enclosed portion of the support frame adapter, each coupling mechanism includes a through hole disposed on a face of the enclosed portion and aligned with a corresponding through hole of an opposing enclosed portion of the support frame adapter. The through hole accommodates a connector that penetrates each through hole of the support frame adapter.

[0016] In some embodiments, each of the one or more frame adapters includes a surrounding frame adapter that surrounds a first outer surface of a respective plate of the plurality of plates. The surrounding frame adapter includes a through hole that defines a second outer surface and an inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter. The inner surface corresponds to the first outer surface respective plate and is configured to accommodate the plate. Further, the second outer surface includes a first surrounding adapter support arm that extends outwardly from a first side surface of the outer surface and a second surrounding adapter support arm that extends outwardly from a second side surface of the outer surface that is opposite the first side surface of the outer surface. Each respective surrounding adapter support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

[0017] In some embodiments, the surrounding frame adapter is integrally formed with the plate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the surrounding frame adapter further includes a gasket disposed about the inner surface of the surrounding adapter such that the gasket is interposed between the inner surface of the surrounding adapter and the suspension of the filter plate.

[0019] In some embodiments, each of the one or more frame adapters includes a first sleeve frame adapter and a second sleeve frame adapter. Each of the first sleeve frame adapter and the second sleeve frame adapter includes a first recess and a second recess. The first recess is disposed at a first edge of the sleeve frame adapter that faces a first outer surface of a respective plate of the plurality of plates. Further, the first recess accommodates a member selected from a first support arm or a second support arm of each respective plate of the plurality of plates. The second recess is disposed at a second edge of the sleeve frame adapter and supports the plurality of plates on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

[0020] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides another filter press apparatus comprising a support frame. A first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail are disposed parallel on a first side and a second side of the support frame, respectively. A fixed head assembly is disposed on a first end of the support frame and adjacent each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The fixed head assembly includes a first array of channels defined by a first length. A driven head assembly is disposed on a second end of the support frame and adjacent each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. The driven head assembly is movable along a longitudinal direction of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail toward and away from the fixed head assembly. A plurality of plates are supported above and between the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail by one or more frame adapters. The one or more adapters slidably couple each plate of the plurality of plates to the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Each respective plate of the plurality of plates includes a second array of channels defined by a first second length. Each respective plate of the plurality of plates also includes a first support arm and a second support arm extending outwardly from opposing side surfaces of the respective plate. Each respective support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail. Further, each respective support arm is accommodated by a frame adapter of the one or more frame adapters. The plurality of plates traverse between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly in accordance with movement of the driven head assembly. An adapter plate is interposed between the plurality of plates and the fixed head assembly. The adapter plate mechanism includes a first adapter plate and a second adapter plate. The first adapter plate includes a first surface abutting an adjacent surface of an end plate of the plurality of plates, and a second surface opposite the first surface and facing a third surface of the second adapter plate. The first adapter plate also includes a first plurality of channels, where each respective channel of the first plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel of the second array of channels and traverses from the first surface to the second surface. The second adapter plate includes the third surface, a fourth surface opposite the third surface and facing a fifth surface of the fixed head assembly, and a second plurality of channels. Each respective channel of the second plurality of channels is aligned with a corresponding channel of the first array of channels and traverses from the first surface to the second surface. Further, the adapter plate mechanism includes a plurality of tubes. Each respective tube of the plurality of tubes extends from a corresponding channel from the first plurality of channels and a corresponding channel from the second plurality of channels. In this way, fluid communication is provided between the plurality of plates and the fixed head via the adapter plate mechanism.

[0021] In some embodiments, each respective tube of the plurality of tubes is a flexible tube.

[0022] In some embodiments, the adapter plate mechanism further includes a plurality of spacers. Each respective spacer of the plurality of spacers extends horizontally and is interposed between the first adapter plate and the second adapter plate.

[0023] Other features and advantages of the present application will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and the following detailed description, which should be taken in conjunction with the appended claims, and ought not to be limited to the example embodiments described therein, but ought to comprise equivalents thereof as well. The drawings provided are intended to be illustrative, rather than restrictive, of the present application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1A A view showing an exemplary filter press apparatus including adapter plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 1B A view showing an exemplary filter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 1C A view showing an exemplary frame plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 2 A view showing an exemplary support adapter and plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 3 An exploded view showing Figure 2 an exemplary support adapter according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 4 A view showing an exemplary enclosed adapter and plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 5 A view showing an exemplary enclosed adapter and plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 6 A view showing Figure 5 a plurality of exemplary enclosed adapters according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 7 A view showing an exemplary sleeve adapter and plurality of plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 8A A side view showing an exemplary adapter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 8B A front view showing Figure 8A an exemplary adapter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 9A A side view showing an exemplary adapter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 9B A front view showing an exemplary adapter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Figure 10A view showing an adapter plate and a plurality of plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 11 A view showing an adapter plate and a plurality of plates according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0039] Figure 12A and Figure 12B A view showing an exemplary adapter plate according to embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0040] FIG. 13 shows a conventional filter press.

[0041] It should be appreciated that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but present a somewhat simplified representation of various features for purposes of explanation of the basic principles of the application. Specific design features of the application as disclosed herein, including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, locations, and shapes, will be determined in part by the particular intended application and use environment.

[0042] In the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various drawings. Also, in the drawings, the use of dashed lines represents DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of the application, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described below. While the application will be described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that the description is not intended to limit the application to those exemplary embodiments. On the contrary, the application is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and other embodiments, which can be included within the spirit and scope of the application as defined by the appended claims.

[0044] It should also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first plate could be termed a second plate, and, similarly, a second plate could be termed a first plate, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The first plate and the second plate are two plates, but they are not one plate.

[0045] As used herein, the term "if' can be construed to mean "when" or "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context. Similarly, the term "if determined" or "if detected [the condition or event]" can be construed to mean "in response to determining" or "in response to detecting," depending on the context.

[0046] Further, when reference numerals are given a "i-th" designation, the reference numerals refer to a general component, collection, or embodiment. For example, a plate referred to as "plate i" refers to the i-th plate of a plurality of plates.

[0047] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described in the context of a filter press apparatus. The filter press apparatus of the present disclosure can be of various types, including a recessed filter press, a plate-and-frame filter press, a membrane plate filter press, and a viscose filter press. The filter press apparatus of the present disclosure can also be used for a variety of applications, including pigment and / or dye manufacturing (e.g., finishing, desalting, waste neutralization, etc.), food and agricultural product processing (e.g., sugar processing), chemical processing (e.g., coolant recovery, etc.), recycling and environmental processing (e.g., industrial waste processing, flue gas desulfurization, etc.), pulp and / or paper processing (e.g., coating waste treatment, etc.), mineral and / or mining processing, etc. Further, the filter press apparatus of the present disclosure can be oriented vertically and horizontally.

[0048] Referring to Figures 1A-1B , an exemplary filter press apparatus according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted. As shown, the filter press 10 includes a support frame (e.g., support frame 20) that forms the foundation for the filter press 10. First and second elongated side rails (such as first and second elongated side rails 30-1 and 30-2, respectively) are disposed on first and second side portions of the support frame 20, respectively, parallel to one another. The elongated side rails 30 together house a plurality of plates (such as plates 110) interposed between and slidably engaged with the elongated side rails 30.

[0049] A fixed head assembly (such as fixed head assembly 40) is disposed on a first end portion of the support frame 20. In this manner, the fixed head assembly 40 is adjacent to each of the elongated side rails 30, with at least a portion of the fixed head assembly 40 interposed between the elongated rails 30. The fixed head assembly 40 also includes one or more inlets that introduce slurry media into the filter press apparatus 10 and one or more outlets that collect filtrate of the media from the filter press apparatus 10. The one or more inlets and the one or more outlets of the fixed head assembly 40 collectively define a first array of channels.

[0050] A driven head assembly, such as driven head assembly 50, is disposed on a second end of support frame 20 that is opposite fixed head assembly 40 and adjacent each elongate side rail 30. A portion of driven head assembly 50 is slidably movable along a lengthwise (e.g., longitudinal) direction of elongate side rail 30 such that driven head assembly 50 traverses forward toward fixed head assembly 40 or rearward from the fixed head assembly according to instructions provided to filter press 10. In some embodiments, driven head assembly 50 includes a driven head, such as driven head 52, and an actuator mechanism (e.g., hydraulic cylinder 56, controller 54, etc.) coupled to and controlling driven head 52. In this manner, actuator mechanism facilitates power and / or control instructions for movement of driven head 52. However, the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0051] Filter press 10 includes a plurality of plates, such as plates 110, that are removably supported on and interposed between elongate side rails 30. Each respective plate 110 is slidably traversable between fixed head assembly 40 and driven head assembly 50, for example, according to movement of driven head assembly 50. While plates 110 generally move as a collective unit due to movement of driven head assembly 50, each respective plate 110 is independently traversable of elongate side rails 30.

[0052] In some embodiments, plates 110 include both gasketed (e.g., sealed) and non-gasketed types of plates. Further, in some embodiments, plates 110 of the present disclosure include recessed cavity plates, membrane (e.g., diaphragm) plates, and frame plates. For example, in some embodiments, plates 110 include a plurality of filter plates, such as filter plates 112 (e.g., Figure 1B filter plates 112-i) and a plurality of frame plates, such as frame plates 114 (e.g., Figure 1C frame plates 114-i). Each respective frame plate 114 includes a corresponding filter plate 112 disposed on each side thereof. Further, in some embodiments, plates 110 include one or more end plates, such as end plates 116, that interface with one of fixed head assembly 40 and driven head assembly 50. In some embodiments, end plates 116 include one or more inlets that introduce slurry media to filter press apparatus 10 and one or more outlets that collect filtrate of the media from filter press apparatus 10. For example, in some embodiments, inlets and outlets of end plates 116 are aligned with and in communication with inlets and outlets of fixed head assembly 40. However, the present disclosure is not so limited.

[0053] Each respective plate 110 includes a suspension, such as suspension 118, that forms a support structure for the plate 110. The suspension 118 includes a perimeter edge portion having a first side and a second side, with each side surrounding a central portion of the suspension 20. Each respective plate 110 also includes a second array of channels (e.g., first channel 140-1, second channel 140-2,..., fourth channel 140-4), with each respective channel disposed at a corresponding corner of the plate 110. The second array of channels of the respective plate 110 defines an inlet and an outlet for a medium (e.g., slurry) of the filter press apparatus 10, and in combination with the fixed head assembly 40 provides fluid communication through the plate 110 to filter the slurry 10 with the filter press apparatus.

[0054] For each respective filter plate 112, each side of the perimeter edge portion includes a textured surface configured to draw filtrate toward one or more outlets of the filter plate 112. For each respective frame plate 114, each side of the perimeter edge portion is recessed inward toward a central plane of the suspension 118, which forms an internal cavity for formation of a filter cake or filtrate from the slurry. The first and optional second filter media extend across the surfaces of the first and second sides of the perimeter edge portion, respectively; the internal cavity is thus defined by the frame plate 114 with the filter media arranged on each side of the frame plate 114. Accordingly, the slurry is introduced through the inlet channels of the frame plate 114 and filtered through the filter media toward the filter plate 112, which forms a filter cake within the internal cavity of the frame plate 114.

[0055] Each respective plate 110 includes a first and second support arm, such as first support arm 120-1 and second support arm 120-2, that removably couples the plate 110 with the filter press apparatus 10. Each respective support arm 120 extends outward from an opposing side surface of the suspension 118 toward one of the elongated side rails 30. In some embodiments, the support arm 120 supports the plate 110 on the elongated side rail 30 by interfacing with the upper end portion elongated side rail 30. In this manner, the plate 110 is removably coupled to the filter press 10. In some embodiments, each support arm 120 includes a surface that abuts and interfaces with a corresponding portion of the elongated side rail 30, such that the support arm 120 and thus the plate 110 is slidably traversable along the elongated side rail 30. Accordingly, if the driven head assembly 50 is moved toward the fixed head assembly 40, the plates 110 are forced with the movement of the driven head assembly 50 and compressed between the fixed head assembly 40. Similarly, if the driven head assembly 50 is moved away from the fixed head assembly 50, a gap can be formed between one or more adjacent plates 110. In some embodiments, the plates 110 include a gasket, such as gasket 132, that forms a seal between adjacent plates 110 to prevent leakage of fluid between the plates 110.

[0056] Each respective plate 110 is defined by dimensions such as the length and width of the suspension 118 (e.g., 20 centimeters (cm) long x 20 cm wide, 30 cm long x 30 cm wide, 40 cm long x 40 cm wide, length LI x width L2, etc.), the thickness of the suspension 118 (e.g., 25 millimeters (mm) thick, 30 mm thick, 40 mm thick, etc.), or a combination thereof. Thus, the elongated side rails 30 are configured to support plates 110 of specific dimensions based on the lateral distance between the elongated side rails 30. Each dimension of plate 110 generally has a unique array of channels, as the channels of the respective plate 110 are disposed at edge (e.g., corner) portions of the plate. For example, referring briefly to Figure 12A , a first dimension of plate 110 has channels 1200 (e.g., channels 140) disposed at locations LI x LI, while a second dimension of plate 110 has channels 1200 disposed at locations L2x L2. Further, the present disclosure allows for multiple configurations of different plates 110 having the same dimensions but different thicknesses (e.g., a first plate 110-1 of 20 cm x 20 cm and 5 cm thick, a second plate 110-2 of 20 cm x 20 cm and 1 cm thick, etc.).

[0057] To filter the media, fluid communication must be maintained between adjacent plates 110 during operation of the filter press apparatus 10. However, if the operation of the filter press apparatus 10 requires different dimensions of plates 110, the channels of the end filter plates 116 at the interface of the fixed head assembly 40 and / or the driven head assembly 50 will not align, thereby stopping fluid communication within the filter press apparatus 10. Accordingly, an adapter plate, such as adapter plate 60, is disposed to be interposed between the interface of the plates 110 and the end filter plates 116. Further, in some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is disposed to be interposed between the interface of the end filter plates 116 and the fixed head assembly 40. The adapter plate 60 includes a mechanism (e.g., one or more tubes (such as tubes 1010 of FIG. 10), one or more channels 830 of FIG. 8, etc.) that provides fluid communication between the plates 110 and the fixed head assembly 40 and / or the end plates 116 configured to interface with the fixed head assembly 40. In some embodiments, the elongated side rails 30 support the adapter plate 60 by a pair of support arms (e.g., support arms 900 of FIG. 9) that extend outwardly from the adapter plate 60. In this manner, the adapter plate 60 is configured to slidably traverse the elongated side rails 30, similar to the support arms 120 of the plates 110. Figure 10 Figure 9B In this manner, the adapter plate 60 is configured to slidably traverse the elongated side rails 30, similar to the support arms 120 of the plates 110.

[0058] Referring back to Figures 1A-1B ​As conventional filter press apparatus can only accommodate plates 110 of a predetermined size, the frame adapters 70 allow these filter press apparatus to accommodate different (e.g., smaller) sized plates 110 without modifying the structure of the filter press apparatus 10, which would otherwise be unable to be accommodated by the filter press apparatus 10. Thus, the frame adapters 70 support each or optionally some of the plates 110 on the elongated side rails 30. The frame adapters 70 engage with the suspension 118 or a portion of the suspension 118, such as the support arm 120, of the plates 110. In this way, the elongated side rails 30 of the filter press apparatus 10 can support various size combinations of plates 110 by providing elongated linkages to the elongated side rails 30 without needing to modify the existing structure of the filter press apparatus 10 and optionally the plates 110. In some embodiments, the frame adapters 70 include a corresponding frame adapter 70 for each respective plate 110 utilized by the filter press apparatus 10, such as the frame adapters 250 of FIG. 2. Figures 2-4 In this way, each respective plate 110 and corresponding frame adapter 250 are configured to move independently of the other plates 110.

[0059] Referring to Figures 2-4In some embodiments, the frame adapter 70 includes a support frame adapter, such as a support frame adapter 250 removably interfacing with a respective plate 110. The support frame adapter 250 includes a first enclosed portion 252-1 and a second enclosed portion 252-2 opposite the first enclosed portion 252-1. The enclosed portions 252 collectively house and interface with the respective support arms 120 of a corresponding plate 110. In some embodiments, the first and second enclosed portions 252-1 and 252-2 are removably engaged with one another by a coupling mechanism, such as coupling mechanism 254 (e.g., a screw 254-1 and threaded holes 256-1 and 256-2, a pin, a bayonet fitting, etc.). However, in other embodiments, the enclosed portions 252 are integrally formed with one another (e.g., as a single element). In some embodiments, the coupling mechanism 254 includes a through-hole 256 that penetrates the outer faces of the enclosed portions 252-1 and 252-2. In some embodiments, the through-hole 256 houses a connector, such as a screw 254, that penetrates the through-hole 256, thereby coupling the first and second enclosed portions 252-1 and 252-2. Thus, the coupling mechanism 254 allows the enclosed portions 252 and support arms 120 to be removably engaged using a simple mechanism to operate. Moreover, the enclosed portions 252 interface with the plate 110 or the elongated side rails 30 without modifying the structure of the filter press apparatus 10 or the plate 110. This removable engagement allows the support frame adapter 250 to be placed on different plates 110 without modifying the integrity of the suspension 118 for the plate 110. Moreover, each support frame adapter 250 consumes minimal volume, which prevents excess plates 110 that would otherwise go unused. Furthermore, since the support frame adapter 250 couples with only a portion of the support arms 120 of the plate 110, the material consumption for manufacturing is greatly reduced.

[0060] The enclosed portions 252 each include a first groove, such as the first groove 300-1, disposed at a first edge portion of the respective enclosed portion 252. The first groove 300 accommodates and interfaces with a portion (e.g., some or all) of the support arm 120 such that a surface of the support arm 120 interfaces with a portion of the first groove 300. The first groove 300 is substantially the same size as the portion of the support arm 120 (e.g., within a tolerance ranging from 1 mm to 0.005 mm). In this manner, excessive movement of the support arm 120 within the support frame adapter 250 is prevented while allowing removable engagement between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250. Accordingly, the first groove 300 provides an interaction area between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250, thereby allowing the support frame adapter 250 to support the load of the plate 110 while having minimal movement between the support arm 120 and the support frame adapter 250. Further, in some embodiments, a second groove, such as the second groove 258, is disposed at a second edge portion of each enclosed portion 252. The second groove 258 supports the plate 110 on the elongated side rail 30 by interfacing with an upper end portion of the elongated side rail 30. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the shape (e.g., curvature) of the second groove 258 corresponds to the shape of the elongated side rail 30, thereby allowing the plate 110 to traverse smoothly (e.g., stably) along the elongated side rail 30 via the support frame adapter 250.

[0061] With reference to Figure 5 and Figure 6 In some embodiments, one or more of the frame adapters includes an encasing frame adapter, such as the encasing frame adapter 500. The encasing frame adapter 500 surrounds a portion of the suspension 118 of the plate 110, which can provide additional leak protection during operation of the filter press apparatus 10. In some embodiments, the encasing frame adapter 500 includes a through-hole, such as the through-hole 502, which defines an outer surface and an inner surface of the encasing frame adapter 500. In some embodiments, the inner surface defined by the through-hole 502 has substantially the same circumference as the suspension 118, thereby allowing the encasing frame adapter 500 to accommodate and encase the plate 110 within the inner surface. Further, the through-hole 502 of the encasing frame adapter 500 exposes adjacent faces of the filter plate 112 and the frame plate 114, thereby allowing a filter cake to form between these adjacent filter plate 112 and frame plate 114 and subsequently be removed from the filter press apparatus 10.

[0062] In some embodiments, the wraparound adapter 500 includes a first support arm and a second support arm (such as support arm 530) (e.g., first support arm 530-1 and second support arm 530-2). The support arm 530 extends outward from the outer surface of the wraparound adapter 500 and interfaces with the elongated side rail 30, such that the plate 110 is supported on the elongated side rail 30. This support provided by the support arm 530 is similar to the support provided by the support arms of the aforementioned support frame adapter (e.g., using a first recess, a second recess, and an interaction area, such as...). Figure 5 The groove 532). Therefore, the support arm 530 of the surround adapter 500 allows smaller plates 110 to be used on larger filter press units 10 (e.g., 20cm x 20cm plates 110 designed to accommodate 40cm x 40cm plates 110), because smaller plates 110 would otherwise be unsupported by the elongated side rails 30 due to their shorter size. In some embodiments, the surround adapter 500 includes pads disposed on one or more side surfaces of the through-hole 502 (e.g., groove 532). Figure 4 The gasket 132 provides another layer of leakage protection between the surround adapter 500 and the plate 110. In some embodiments, the surround adapter 500 includes a first portion and a second portion that are removably engaged to surround the plate 110 and form the surround adapter 500. In some embodiments, the ends of the surround adapter include deformable dampers configured to engage with the driven head 52. In this way, the driven head 52 applies a force to the plate 110 via the damper, rather than applying a direct force to the surround adapter 500. Furthermore, by applying a force to the plate 110, the plate 110 can move independently of the surround adapter 500. Therefore, the surround adapter 500 allows plates 110 of different sizes to be used on a larger filter press 10 with a minimal number of elements.

[0063] refer to Figure 7In some embodiments, the one or more frame adapters include one or more sleeve frame adapters (such as sleeve frame adapters 700) (e.g., first sleeve frame adapter 700-1 and second sleeve frame adapter 700-2). The sleeve frame adapters 700 house the support arms 120 of the one or more plates 110. The support provided by the sleeve frame adapters 700 is similar to the support provided by the support arms of the support frame adapters described above (e.g., using the first recess, the interaction area, and the second recess). In some embodiments, the support arms 120 are slidably traversable within the sleeve frame adapters 700, thereby allowing the plates 110 housed by the sleeve frame adapters 700 to move independently of the sleeve frame adapters 700 in accordance with the movement of the driven head assembly 50. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the sleeve frame adapters 700 allow for more than one plate 110 to be supported on the elongated side rails 30 with a minimal number of parts, as the sleeve frame adapters 700 are capable of supporting any number of plates 110.

[0064] With reference to Figures 8A-9B In some embodiments, to provide fluid communication between the plates 110 and the stationary head assembly 40, an adapter plate (such as adapter plate 60) is provided that is interposed between the terminal plate 110 and the stationary head assembly 40, or optionally, between the end plate 116 and the stationary head assembly 40. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is interposed between the terminal plate 110 and the end plate 116, as shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is a thin plate that is configured to be slidably traversable within the stationary head assembly 40. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is configured to be slidably traversable within the stationary head assembly 40 in a direction that is parallel to the direction of the movement of the driven head assembly 50. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 is configured to be slidably traversable within the stationary head assembly 40 in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of the movement of the driven head assembly 50. Figure 1AThe first and second surfaces of the adapter plate 60 include respective pluralities of openings, such as openings 810 and 820. Further, a plurality of channels, such as channel 830, traverse from one of the openings 810 to one of the openings 820 and align with the corresponding channels 140 of the adjacent plate 110. In this manner, fluid communication is provided between the plates 110 and the stationary head assembly 40, even though the plates 110 have a different size than originally configured for the stationary head assembly 40. For example, consider a filter press apparatus 10 configured to house a first plurality of filter plates 110 of a first size (e.g., L1 x L1), and a second filter plate 110 having a second size (e.g., L2 x L2) is to be used with the filter press apparatus 10. Accordingly, the second plurality of plates 110 are housed and interfaced with the elongated side rails 30 via the frame adapter. The openings 810 are disposed at a location a distance L1 x L1 from a center location of the adapter plate 60 and correspond to the channels 140 of the stationary head assembly 40, and the openings 820 are disposed at a location a distance L2 x L2 from the center location of the adapter plate 60. Further, the channels 830 are formed to traverse the adapter plate 60 and connect the openings 810 and 820, such that fluid communication is provided between the plates 110. In some embodiments, the adapter plate 60 includes support arms, such as support arms 900 (e.g., first support arm 900-1 and second support arm 900-2), each extending outwardly from an outer surface of the adapter plate 60. The support arms 900 engage the elongated side rails 30 and support the adapter plate 60, similar to the support provided by the support arms of the support frame adapter described above (e.g., using the first recess, the interaction region, and the second recess).

[0065] Reference is made to Figures 10-12BIn some embodiments, a fluidly communicating adapter plate mechanism, such as adapter plate mechanism 1000, is disposed between the plates 110. The adapter plate mechanism 1000 includes first and second adapter plates, such as adapter plates 1002 (e.g., first adapter plate 1002-1, second adapter plate 1002-2). Each respective adapter plate 1002 includes opposing surfaces and an array of channels traversing between the opposing surfaces through the adapter plate 1002. In some embodiments, the surfaces include a plurality of channels, such as channels 1200 (e.g., first channel 1200-1, second channel 1200-2, etc.), that align with the corresponding channels 140 of the end plates 116, the fixed head assembly 40, the terminal plates 110, or a combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the adapter plates 1002 include one or more arrays of channels 1200 that correspond to the unique dimensions of the plates 110 (e.g., a first array of channels 1200 corresponds to L1 x L1 sized plates 110, a second array of channels 1200 corresponds to L2 x L2 sized plates 110, etc.). For example, Figure 12A The channels 1200 are formed in a first plurality of locations corresponding to the first dimension of the plates 110 (e.g., L1 x L1), a second plurality of locations corresponding to the second dimension of the plates 110 (e.g., L2 x L2), and a third plurality of locations corresponding to the third dimension of the plates 110 (e.g., L3 x L3). The use of the arrays of channels 1200 corresponding to different plate 110 dimensions allows any combination of plate 110 dimensions to be used with the adapter plate mechanism 1000. Accordingly, in some embodiments, one or more plugs, such as plug 1220, removably engage the corresponding channels 1200 such that the plug 1220 prevents or delays fluid communication through the channels 1200. The plugs 1220 are typically engaged with channels 1200 that are not in use in an immediate filter press operation. Further, the plugs 1220 minimize the required maintenance of the plates 110 by preventing media from traversing the channels 1200 that would otherwise be exposed to the media and require subsequent cleaning. In this manner, the adapter plate mechanism 1000 allows any dimension of plate 110 to be used with the filter press apparatus 10.

[0066] In some embodiments, one or more tubes, such as tubes 1010, extend from the channels 1200 of the first adapter plate 1000-1 to the corresponding channels 1200 of the second adapter plate 1000-2. In some embodiments, the tubes 1010 are formed of a flexible (e.g., elastic) material. The tubes 1010 extend a distance between the end plate 116 and the plate 110 while maintaining fluid communication between the channels of the plate 110. In some embodiments, the tubes 1010 are configured to prevent dead volume of the media of the tubes 110 and to reduce the occurrence of turbulent media flow. In some embodiments, the tubes 1010 include a telescoping tube, allowing for adjustment of the distance between the adapter plates 1000 depending on the design use. In some embodiments, one or more spacers, such as spacer 1030, extend longitudinally and are interposed between the outer edge portions of the adapter plates 1000. The spacer 1030 allows a user of the filter press 10 to adjust the length of the tubes 1030. Further, in some embodiments, the spacer 1030 displaces the received force, such as the force of the plate 110 compressing between the fixed head assembly 40 and the fixed head assembly 50. In some embodiments, the spacer 1030 includes an open pin device (e.g., a plurality of through holes and a split pin, a hairpin, a butterfly pin, etc.) that allows for manual adjustment of the spacer 1030 and instantaneous fixing of the distance between the adapter plates 1000. In some embodiments, the spacer 1030 provides rigidity to the filter press device 10.

[0067] Accordingly, the filter press adapter of the present disclosure increases the throughput of a facility by allowing for the use of different sized plates during filter press operation. The filter press adapter of the present disclosure has a minimal number of components and a simple installation procedure, which allows for improved handling and reduced maintenance by the user. Since the filter press of the present disclosure removably engages with a conventional filter press device, the integrity of the filter press device is not compromised. Further, the removable engagement feature of the filter press adapter also improves the accuracy of the end user when assembling the adapter to the frame.

[0068] For ease of explanation and precise definition of the appended claims, the terms "upper," "lower," "up," "down," "upwardly," "downwardly," "inwardly," "outwardly," "interior," "exterior," "front," "back," "rear," "forward," and "rearward" are used to describe the location of features of the example embodiments as shown in the drawings. Further, it should be noted that the term "side" does not necessarily mean the outermost edge of an element of the present disclosure.

[0069] The foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the application has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the application to the precise forms disclosed, and various modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain certain principles of the application and their practical application to thereby enable others skilled in the art to make and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the present application, and to understand the present application. It is intended that the scope of the application be defined by the claims appended hereto and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A filter press apparatus, comprising: Supporting framework; The first slender side rail and the second slender side rail are respectively arranged in parallel on the first side and the second side of the support frame. A fixing head assembly is disposed on a first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, wherein the fixing head assembly includes a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly is disposed on the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, the driven head assembly being movable forward toward the fixed head assembly and backward away from the fixed head assembly along the longitudinal direction of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail; A plurality of plates, the plurality of plates being supported on and between a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail by one or more frame adapters, thereby slidably connecting each of the plurality of plates to the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, wherein: Each of the plurality of plates includes: A second channel array defined by a second length different from the first length, and A first support arm and a second support arm, extending outward from opposite side surfaces of the respective plates, wherein each respective support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first and second elongated side rails, and wherein each respective support arm is received by a frame adapter among the one or more frame adapters. The plurality of plates traverse between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly according to the movement of the driven head assembly; and An adapter plate is inserted between the plurality of plates and the fixing head assembly, wherein the adapter plate includes: A first surface, which is adjacent to the adjacent surface of the end plate of the plurality of plates. The second surface, which is opposite to and adjacent to the first surface and the adjacent surface of the fixing head assembly, and Multiple channels, each of which extends from the first surface to the second surface and connects a corresponding channel in the first channel array on the first surface to a corresponding channel in the second channel array on the second surface, thereby providing fluid communication between the multiple plates and the fixing head assembly.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more frame adapters includes a support frame adapter, wherein the support frame adapter includes a first encapsulation portion and a second encapsulation portion opposite to and removably coupled to the first encapsulation portion, and wherein each of the first encapsulation portion and the second encapsulation portion of the support frame adapter includes: A first groove is provided at a first edge portion of the encapsulation portion, and the first groove accommodates a portion of the support arm; A coupling mechanism configured to removably connect with a corresponding coupling mechanism of the opposite encapsulation portion of the support frame adapter; as well as A second groove is provided at the second edge portion of the encapsulation portion, and the second groove supports the plate on a component selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein for each encapsulation portion of the support frame adapter, each coupling mechanism includes a through-hole disposed on a surface of the encapsulation portion and aligned with a corresponding through-hole of the opposite encapsulation portion of the support frame adapter, the through-hole receiving a connector that penetrates each through-hole of the support frame adapter.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a surrounding frame adapter around a first outer surface of a respective plate of the plurality of plates, wherein the surrounding frame adapter includes a through-hole defining a second outer surface and an inner surface of the surrounding frame adapter, and wherein: The inner surface corresponds to the corresponding plate of the first outer surface and is configured to accommodate the plate; and The second outer surface includes a first enclosing adapter support arm extending outward from a first side surface of the second outer surface and a second enclosing adapter support arm extending outward from a second side surface opposite to the first side surface of the second outer surface, wherein each respective enclosing adapter support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

5. The device of claim 4, wherein the surround frame adapter is integrally formed with the plate.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the surround frame adapter further includes a pad disposed around the inner surface of the surround frame adapter, thereby being inserted between the inner surface of the surround frame adapter and the support frame of the plate.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more frame adapters comprises a first sleeve frame adapter and a second sleeve frame adapter, and wherein each of the first sleeve frame adapter and the second sleeve frame adapter comprises: A first groove is provided at a first edge of a first outer surface of the sleeve frame adapter facing a respective plate of the plurality of plates, the first groove receiving a component selected from the first support arm or the second support arm of each respective plate of the plurality of plates. and A second groove is provided at the second edge of the sleeve frame adapter, and the second groove supports the plurality of plates on a component selected from the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail.

8. A filter press apparatus, comprising: Supporting framework; The first slender side rail and the second slender side rail are respectively arranged in parallel on the first side and the second side of the support frame. A fixing head assembly is disposed on a first end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, wherein the fixing head assembly includes a first channel array defined by a first length; A driven head assembly is disposed on the second end of the support frame and adjacent to each of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, the driven head assembly being movable forward toward the fixed head assembly and backward away from the fixed head assembly along the longitudinal direction of the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail; A plurality of plates, the plurality of plates being supported on and between a first elongated side rail and a second elongated side rail by one or more frame adapters, thereby slidably connecting each of the plurality of plates to the first elongated side rail and the second elongated side rail, wherein: Each of the plurality of plates includes: A second channel array defined by a second length different from the first length, and A first support arm and a second support arm, extending outward from opposite side surfaces of the respective plates, wherein each support arm supports the respective plate on a member selected from the first and second elongated side rails, and wherein each support arm is received by a frame adapter among the one or more frame adapters. The plurality of plates traverse between the fixed head assembly and the driven head assembly according to the movement of the driven head assembly; and An adapter plate mechanism is inserted between the plurality of plates and the fixing head assembly, wherein the adapter plate mechanism includes: A first adapter board, the first adapter board comprising: A first surface, which is adjacent to the adjacent surface of the end plate of the plurality of plates. The second surface, the third surface opposite to the first surface and facing the second adapter board, and A first plurality of channels, each corresponding channel in the first plurality of channels being aligned with a corresponding channel in the second channel array and traversing from the first surface to the second surface, and A second adapter board, the second adapter board comprising: The third surface, The fourth surface, which is opposite to the third surface and faces the fifth surface of the fixing head assembly, and A second plurality of channels, each corresponding channel in the second plurality of channels being aligned with a corresponding channel in the first channel array and traversing from the first surface to the second surface; and A plurality of tubes, wherein each corresponding tube of the plurality of tubes extends from a corresponding channel from the first plurality of channels and a corresponding channel from the second plurality of channels, thereby providing fluid communication between the plurality of plates and the fixing head assembly.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein each of the plurality of tubes is a flexible tube.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a plurality of spacers, each of the plurality of spacers extending horizontally and inserted between the first adapter plate and the second adapter plate.

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