Fog and Vapor Elimination Filters, Devices, Systems, and Methods of Use

Abstract

Mist and vapor elimination filters, devices, methods of filtering aircraft air using these devices, and systems including these devices are disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to mist and vapor elimination filters, devices, systems and methods of use. Background Art

[0002] There is a need to improve the cabin air quality provided by environmental control systems (ECS) on aircraft, particularly during ground operations. The present invention alleviates at least some of the shortcomings of the prior art. These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present invention provides a mist and steam elimination filter, which includes a first-stage hollow filter and a second-stage hollow filter; (a) the first-stage hollow filter includes: a first shell having a first shell first end and a first shell second end; arranged in the first shell are: (i) a first adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorption element; the first-stage hollow filter includes a first end cap connected to the first shell first end; (b) the second-stage hollow filter includes: a second shell having a first end of the second shell and a second end of the second shell; arranged in the second shell are: (iii) a second adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorption element; the second-stage hollow filter comprises a second end cap connected to the second end of the second shell; (c) wherein the second end of the first shell is connected to the first end of the second shell through an intermediate end cap; the intermediate end cap comprises a first discharge channel between the second end of the first shell and the first end of the second shell; and the second end cap comprises a second discharge channel located at the second end of the second shell.

[0004] Another aspect of the present invention provides a mist and vapor elimination filter device, which includes: (a) a main shell, which includes a main shell body, an inlet pipe connected to a first end of the main shell body, and an outlet pipe connected to a second end of the main shell body; and (b) an aspect of the mist and vapor elimination filter, which is arranged in the main shell between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

[0005] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of filtering aircraft cabin air includes passing the aircraft air through an aspect of a mist and vapor elimination filter device.

[0006] Another aspect of the present invention provides a system for filtering aircraft air, comprising: (A) a mist and vapor elimination filter device, comprising: a main housing, comprising a main housing body, an inlet pipe connected to a first end of the main housing body, and an outlet pipe connected to a second end of the main housing body; and a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter, comprising a first stage filter and a second stage filter; (a) the first stage hollow filter comprising: a first housing having a first housing first end and a first housing second end; arranged within the first housing: (i) a first adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorption element; the first stage hollow filter comprising a first end cap connected to the first housing first end; (b) the second stage hollow filter comprising: a second housing having a second housing first end and a second housing second end; The system is provided with: (iii) a second adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorption element; the second-stage hollow filter comprises a second end cap connected to the second end of the second shell; wherein the second end of the first shell is connected to the first end of the second shell via an intermediate end cap; the intermediate end cap comprises a first discharge passage between the second end of the first shell and the first end of the second shell; and the second end cap comprises a second discharge passage located at the second end of the second shell; wherein the mist and vapor elimination filter device is arranged in the main shell between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; the system further comprises: (B) a bypass valve comprising a pivotable bypass plate arranged in a hollow sleeve, wherein the hollow sleeve is arranged between the main shell body and the outlet pipe, and when the bypass valve is open, the hollow sleeve provides an aircraft air flow path through the MaVE filter device and partially bypasses the MaVE filter.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for filtering aircraft cabin air, the method comprising passing aircraft air through an aspect of a system for filtering aircraft air, the system comprising: (A) a mist and vapor elimination filter device comprising: a main housing comprising a main housing body, an inlet tube connected to a first end of the main housing body, and an outlet tube connected to a second end of the main housing body; and a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter comprising a first stage filter and a second stage filter; (a) the first stage hollow filter comprising: a first housing having a first housing first end and a first housing second end; disposed within the first housing are: (i) a first adsorbent element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorbent element; the first stage hollow filter comprising a first end cap connected to the first housing first end; (b) the second stage hollow filter comprising: a second housing having a second housing first end and a second housing second end; disposed within the second housing are: (i ii) a second adsorbent element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorbent element; the second-stage hollow filter comprising a second end cap connected to the second housing second end; wherein the first housing second end is connected to the second housing first end via an intermediate end cap; the intermediate end cap comprises a first discharge passage between the first housing second end and the second housing first end; and the second end cap comprises a second discharge passage located at the second housing second end; wherein the mist and vapor elimination filter device is disposed in the main housing between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; the system further comprising: (B) a bypass valve comprising a pivotable bypass plate disposed in a hollow sleeve, wherein the hollow sleeve is disposed between the main housing body and the outlet pipe, wherein the hollow sleeve provides an aircraft air flow path through the MaVE filter device, partially bypassing the MaVE filter when the bypass valve is open; opening the bypass valve; and flowing the aircraft air through the MaVE filter device while partially bypassing the MaVE filter. Preferably, the method further comprises closing the bypass valve and flowing the aircraft air through the MaVE filter.

[0008] In another aspect, a method of filtering aircraft cabin air comprising passing aircraft air through one aspect of a mist and vapor elimination filter device and / or through one aspect of a system further comprises collecting free water on an upstream surface of a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium and collecting free water on an upstream surface of a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium. In a preferred aspect, the method comprises passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a first drain passage and passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a second drain passage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1Ashows a rear view of a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter according to one aspect of the present invention, further showing three detent arrangements on the second end cap of the filter; Figure 1B Shown along Figure 1A a cross-sectional view of the MaVE filter taken along line AA, showing the nose cone, the first stage hollow filter, and the second stage hollow filter connected to the first end cap; Figure 1C Shown Figure 1A and 1B Side view of the MaVE filter shown in;

[0010] Figure 1D Shown Figure 1C a rear isometric view of the MaVE filter shown in FIG, with the second housing second end and the second end cap removed, illustrating the open second end of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media retained by but not sealed to the second end cap; Figure 1E Shown Figure 1B An enlarged view of detail C shown in , showing the braking arrangement on the second end cap; Figure 1F Shown Figure 1B an enlarged view of detail E shown in , showing the connection arrangement for connecting the nose cone of the MaVE filter to the first end cap; Figure 1G Shown Figure 1B In the enlarged view of detail B shown in FIG, a first clamp lock connects the second end of the first housing to the second end of the first inner cage of the first stage hollow filter, and a second clamp lock connects the intermediate end cap to the first end of the second inner cage of the second stage hollow filter; Figure 1H shows a cross-sectional view of a first stage hollow filter; Figure 1I A cross-sectional view of a second-stage hollow filter is shown.

[0011] Figures 2A-2B is a diagram showing a nose cone, Figure 2A is the rear isometric view, Figure 2B It is a side view.

[0012] Figures 3A-3C is a diagram showing a first end cap, Figure 3A is the rear isometric view, Figure 3B It is the rear view; Figure 3C It is a side view.

[0013] Figures 4A-4C is a diagram showing the end cap of the first adsorption element, Figure 4A is the rear isometric view, Figure 4B It is the rear view; Figure 4C It is a side view.

[0014] Figures 5A-5C is a diagram showing the middle end cover, Figure 5Ais the rear isometric view, Figure 5B It is the rear view; Figure 5C It is a side view.

[0015] Figures 6A-6C is a diagram showing the end cap of the second adsorption element, Figure 6A is the rear isometric view, Figure 6B It is the rear view; Figure 6C It is a side view.

[0016] Figures 7A-7C is a diagram showing a second end cap, Figure 7A is the rear isometric view, Figure 7B It is the rear view; Figure 7C It is a side view.

[0017] Figure 8A It shows Figure 1B Detail D is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of one aspect of the MaVE filter shown. Figure 8B Shows the aircraft air flowing from outside to inside through Figure 1A and 8A A schematic diagram of a mist and vapor elimination filter apparatus for collecting and discharging condensed water vapor is shown, wherein aircraft air, stripped of at least a portion of initially present mist and vapor by first and second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media, passes through first and second adsorbent elements, and further illustrates the adsorbent elements being sealed to end caps, with the hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media being retained by the end caps.

[0018] Figure 9A A cross-sectional view of a system for filtering aircraft air according to one aspect of the present invention is shown, the system including a MaVE filter device comprising: a main housing including a main housing body; Figure 1A a MaVE filter, an inlet tube connected to a first end of a main housing body by a first clamping arrangement, an outlet tube connected to a second end of the main housing body by a second clamping arrangement, and a bypass valve disposed in a sleeve between the main housing body and the outlet tube, the bypass valve for providing an aircraft air flow path through the MaVE filter apparatus that partially bypasses the MaVE filter, and sensors disposed upstream and downstream of the MaVE filter; Figure 9B Shown Figure 9A A front view of the main housing body is shown in FIG, also showing the cavity for receiving the detent arrangement on the second end cap on the MaVE filter ( Figure 1B Detail C) in the figure allows the filter to be locked in place in the main housing; Figure 9C Shown Figure 9A A front view of a MaVE filter device is shown showing the outlet tube port offset from the second end of the second stage hollow filter and also showing the bypass valve actuator; Figure 9D Shown Figure 9A an enlarged view of detail B shown, showing the sleeve containing the bypass valve; Figure 9E a cross-sectional view showing the right side of a sleeve containing a bypass valve and a bypass valve plate, and a bypass valve actuator attached to the bypass valve, including a centrally located arrow showing the direction of airflow through the sleeve and bypass valve when the valve is open (also showing the valve shaft arranged at a certain angle and the valve plate arranged vertically in the sleeve); Figure 9F Shown Figure 9E a diagram of the left side of the sleeve and bypass valve actuator shown in FIG, including arrows showing the direction of air flow through the sleeve and bypass valve when the valve is open; Figure 9G yes Figure 9F A front view of a sleeve containing a bypass valve and a bypass valve plate and a bypass valve actuator attached to the bypass valve is shown; Figure 9H yes Figure 9F a top view of the bypass actuator and sleeve shown; Figure 9I Shown Figure 9A An isometric rear view of the MaVE filter assembly is shown; Figure 9J and 9K showing front and rear perspective views of the spider panel, respectively; and Figure 9L Shown Figure 9A A modified view of detail B is shown.

[0019] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of the environmental control system (ECS) is shown, illustrating how fresh aircraft air and recirculated air pass through an air mixing unit and a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter device and subsequently through the aircraft, including filtering of the recirculated air through a high-efficiency particulate air / volatile organic compound (HEPA / VOC) filter.

[0020] Figure 11 An exemplary schematic diagram of a control system for controlling flow of a bypass valve in a system for filtering aircraft air, the system including a MaVE filter device, according to one aspect of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] In an ECS system, fresh air and recirculated air (filtered through a high-efficiency particulate air / volatile organic compound (HEPA / VOC) filter) are distributed within the aircraft cabin in varying proportions depending on the aircraft type, typically approximately 50% to 60% fresh air and approximately 40% to 50% filtered recirculated air. Fresh air is delivered to the ECS from the engine or auxiliary power unit (APU) through two air conditioning packs that regulate the air pressure and temperature (see Figure 4). Under certain outside air conditions (e.g., ground operations), the air conditioning packs can condense water vapor present in the air into free water in the form of mist. Without the ability to handle the free water content, the free water can adversely affect the efficiency of the VOC filter through wetting, potentially leading to bacterial growth and introducing unpleasant odors into the cabin, or increase pressure loss across the pleated filter media.

[0022] Advantageously, various aspects of the mist and vapor eliminator (MaVE) filter, in accordance with the present invention, strip free water (e.g., in the form of mist) from the cabin air, preventing it from wetting the adsorption element and degrading VOC performance (see FIG4 , which illustrates various aspects of the present invention in conjunction with a conventional ECS system). Furthermore, managing the flow of free water can minimize increases in pressure differentials, thereby reducing or avoiding potential negative impacts on the ECS's ability to maintain desired ventilation airflow levels. In another advantage, the stripped free water / water droplets can be redirected into the airflow downstream of the MaVE filter, preserving the evaporative cooling function of the ECS.

[0023] One aspect of the present invention provides a MaVE filter, which includes a first-stage hollow filter and a second-stage hollow filter; (a) the first-stage hollow filter includes: a first shell having a first shell first end and a first shell second end; arranged in the first shell are: (i) a first adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorption element; the first-stage hollow filter includes a first end cap connected to the first end of the first shell; (b) the second-stage hollow filter includes: a second shell having a second a first end of a shell and a second end of a second shell; arranged in the second shell are: (iii) a second adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorption element; the second-stage hollow filter comprises a second end cap connected to the second end of the second shell; (c) wherein the second end of the first shell is connected to the first end of the second shell through an intermediate end cap; the intermediate end cap comprises a first discharge channel between the second end of the first shell and the first end of the second shell; and the second end cap comprises a second discharge channel located at the second end of the second shell.

[0024] In one aspect of the MaVE filter, the first adsorbent element and the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium both have a tapered configuration.

[0025] In a preferred aspect of the MaVE filter, the filter further comprises: a first adsorption element end cap sealed to one end of the first adsorption element, the first adsorption element end cap being in contact with the intermediate end cap; and a second adsorption element end cap sealed to one end of the second adsorption element, the second adsorption element end cap being in contact with the second end cap.

[0026] In one exemplary aspect of the MaVE filter, the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media is retained by the middle end cap and the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media is retained by the end caps.

[0027] In another aspect of the MaVE filter, the intermediate end cap provides a drain gap for the first drain channel in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, and the second end cap provides a drain gap for the second drain channel in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm.

[0028] In a preferred aspect of the MaVE filter, the first and second stage filters each include respective first and second outer cages and respective first and second inner cores, and in certain aspects, the first and second stage filters each further include respective perforated cages disposed between the adsorption element and the inner core.

[0029] Typically, the MaVE filter includes at least two connection arrangements connecting the first housing second end to the intermediate end cap, and at least two additional connection arrangements connecting the second housing second end to the second end cap.

[0030] Another aspect of the present invention provides a mist and vapor elimination filter device, which includes: (a) a main shell, which includes a main shell body, an inlet pipe connected to a first end of the main shell body, and an outlet pipe connected to a second end of the main shell body; and (b) an aspect of the mist and vapor elimination filter, which is arranged in the main shell between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe.

[0031] In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method for filtering aircraft cabin air includes passing aircraft air through an aspect of a mist and vapor elimination filter device and / or passing aircraft air through an aspect of a system for filtering aircraft air. In one aspect, the method further includes collecting free water on an upstream surface of a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium and collecting free water on an upstream surface of a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium. In a preferred aspect, the method includes passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a first drain passage and passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a second drain passage.

[0032] In one aspect, the method further includes passing water along a discharge channel and redirecting the suspended free water back into the downstream ventilation airflow, thereby allowing the water to re-evaporate as the airflow advances along the ventilation tube. The stripped water travels along the top surface of the membrane (propelled by the airflow along the filter) to the water discharge channel, where it bypasses the MaVE filter and re-enters the downstream airflow. Once re-entered, the free water in the form of water droplets can then evaporate as it travels in the airflow along the ventilation tube, allowing the system to continue to utilize this additional evaporative cooling effect.

[0033] For example, with regard to additional evaporative cooling, a certain volume of free water droplets is re-evaporated, essentially transferring energy in the form of heat from the air (sensible heat) to the water droplets (latent heat) through evaporation. This is achieved by mixing the cool air, containing free water, delivered by the air conditioning package with warmer recirculated air. The level of cooling provided (in kW) depends on the specific ambient conditions of the day and the target conditions to be achieved on the aircraft. For example, if the free water content of 1 gram per 1 kg of air delivered by the air conditioning package is 1 gram, the additional cooling effect achieved can provide up to 1.7 kW of additional cooling.

[0034] In another aspect of the present invention, a system for filtering aircraft air is provided, the system including one aspect of a MaVE filter device and further including a bypass valve including a pivotable bypass plate disposed in a hollow sleeve, wherein the hollow sleeve is disposed between a main housing body and an outlet pipe, and when the bypass valve is open, the hollow sleeve provides a flow path for aircraft air through the MaVE filter device, partially bypassing the MaVE filter.

[0035] In one aspect of the system, the first adsorbent element and the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium both have a tapered configuration. Alternatively or additionally, various aspects of the system include any one or more of the following: the MaVE filter further includes a first adsorption element end cap sealed to one end of the first adsorption element, the first adsorption element end cap being in contact with the intermediate end cap; and a second adsorption element end cap sealed to one end of the second adsorption element, the second adsorption element end cap being in contact with the second end cap; the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium is retained by the intermediate end cap, and the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium is retained by the end caps; the intermediate end cap provides a discharge gap in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm for the first discharge channel, and the second end cap provides a discharge gap in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm for the second discharge channel; the MaVE filter includes at least two connection arrangements connecting the second end of the first shell to the intermediate end cap, and at least two additional connection arrangements connecting the second end of the second shell to the second end cap; the first-stage hollow filter includes a first-stage outer cage and a first-stage inner core; the second-stage hollow filter includes a second-stage outer cage and a second-stage inner core.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for filtering aircraft cabin air, the method comprising passing aircraft air through an aspect of a system for filtering aircraft air, the system comprising: (A) a mist and vapor elimination filter device comprising: a main housing comprising a main housing body, an inlet tube connected to a first end of the main housing body, and an outlet tube connected to a second end of the main housing body; and a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter comprising a first stage filter and a second stage filter; (a) the first stage hollow filter comprising: a first housing having a first housing first end and a first housing second end; disposed within the first housing are: (i) a first adsorbent element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorbent element; the first stage hollow filter comprising a first end cap connected to the first housing first end; (b) the second stage hollow filter comprising: a second housing having a second housing first end and a second housing second end; disposed within the second housing are: (i ii) a second adsorbent element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorbent element; the second-stage hollow filter comprising a second end cap connected to the second housing second end; wherein the first housing second end is connected to the second housing first end via an intermediate end cap; the intermediate end cap comprises a first discharge passage between the first housing second end and the second housing first end; and the second end cap comprises a second discharge passage located at the second housing second end; wherein the mist and vapor elimination filter device is disposed in the main housing between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; the system further comprising: (B) a bypass valve comprising a pivotable bypass plate disposed in a hollow sleeve, wherein the hollow sleeve is disposed between the main housing body and the outlet pipe, wherein the hollow sleeve provides an aircraft air flow path through the MaVE filter device, partially bypassing the MaVE filter when the bypass valve is open; opening the bypass valve; and flowing the aircraft air through the MaVE filter device while partially bypassing the MaVE filter. Preferably, the method further comprises closing the bypass valve and flowing the aircraft air through the MaVE filter.

[0037] In certain aspects, the method includes repeatedly alternating between closing the bypass valve and flowing aircraft air through the MaVE filter, opening the bypass valve, and flowing aircraft air through the MaVE filter assembly while partially bypassing the MaVE filter.

[0038] Various aspects of filtering aircraft cabin air through one aspect of a system may include collecting free water on an upstream surface of a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium and collecting free water on an upstream surface of a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium; and may further include passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a first drain passage and passing the free water collected on the upstream surface of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a second drain passage.

[0039] Each component of the present invention will now be described in more detail below, wherein like components have like reference numerals.

[0040] Figures 1A-1I One aspect of the MaVE filter 500 according to the present invention shown includes a first-stage hollow filter 100 and a second-stage hollow filter 200; the first-stage hollow filter includes: a first housing 150 having a first housing first end 151 and a first housing second end 152, the first housing second end including a first housing second end plate 152A; arranged within the first housing: a first adsorption element 170 comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium 180 surrounding the first adsorption element, the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium 180 having an upstream surface 181 and downstream surface 182; the first stage filter includes a first end cap 110 connected to the first end of the first shell; the second stage hollow filter includes: a second shell 250, which has a second shell first end 251 and a second shell second end 252; arranged in the second shell: a second adsorption element 270, which includes activated carbon and / or activated clay; a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium 280, which surrounds the second adsorption element, the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium 280 having an upstream surface 281 and a downstream surface 282; the second stage hollow filter includes a connecting arrangement structure 496 ( Figure 1I ) a second end cover 210 connected to the second end of the second shell; wherein the second end of the first shell is connected to the first end of the second shell through an intermediate end cover 310, wherein the second end of the first shell is connected to the intermediate end cover through a connection arrangement structure 495; the intermediate end cover includes a first discharge channel 311 between the second end of the first shell and the first end of the second shell; and the second end cover includes a second discharge channel 211 located at the second end of the second shell.

[0041] The hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media 180, 280 is used to collect and discharge condensed water vapor on the upstream surface of the media and remove airborne particulates from the aircraft air, and the adsorption elements 170, 270 absorb volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Free water collected from the upstream surface and discharged through the discharge channel essentially bypasses the MaVE filter, minimizing the impact of excessive pressure loss on ECS performance. Figure 1Band 8B In the aspect shown, the drainage passage is arranged perpendicular to the generally horizontal axis of the filter 500 and the first and second stage hollow filters 100 , 200 .

[0042] Typically, the middle end cap provides a discharge gap for the first discharge channel in the range of 6mm to 18mm, preferably in the range of 10mm to 14mm, and the second end cap provides a discharge gap for the second discharge channel in the range of 6mm to 18mm, preferably in the range of 10mm to 14mm.

[0043] Generally, various aspects of the stage filters 100, 200 include: respective first and second outer perforated cages 130, 230 to hold and protect the hydrophobic pleated hollow porous media and adsorbent elements (each outer cage is joined together at a seam, Figure 1A and corresponding first and second inner core portions (shown as perforated cages) 160, 260 (see Figure 1D ) to maintain the structural integrity of each filter stage. Figure 1B 、 1D As shown in Figures 8A and 8A, the stage filters 100, 200 include respective perforated cages 140, 240 disposed between the adsorption element and the inner core, for example, to prevent adsorption element particle migration.

[0044] In some aspects, such as Figure 1B As shown in Figures 1G, 1H, and 1I, housing ends 152 and 172 and end cap 310 are connected to the ends of the first and second stage hollow filters via clip locks 135, 235, and 335. Each clip lock includes a hook 136 (on the second end of the first housing), 236 (on the second end of the second housing), and 336 (on the middle end cap), and slots 101, 402, and 403 at the respective ends of the inner cage 130 (at the second end first inner cage) and 230 (at the first and second ends of the second inner cage) for receiving the corresponding hook. In one aspect, there are two clip locks at each end.

[0045] In one preferred aspect of the MaVE filter 500, the filter includes a nose cone 190 (see Figures 2A-2B ), the nose cone passes Figure 1B and 1F The connection arrangement 195 is shown attached to the first end cap 110 (see Figures 3A-3C )(Similar to Figure 1B The connection arrangement 495 shown, wherein the second end of the first housing is connected to the intermediate end cap via the connection arrangement, and Figure 1IThe connection arrangement 496 is shown, wherein the second end of the second housing is connected to the second end cap. Advantageously, the addition of the nose cone improves the aerodynamic shape of the filter and can reduce pressure losses associated with turbulent airflow. When the nose cone is closed, air enters the filter through the external perforated cage rather than through the nose cone 190 and the first end cap 110 (see also Figure 8B ).

[0046] A variety of connection arrangements are suitable for use in various aspects of the present invention. For example, Figure 1B 、 1F and 1I( Figure 1H The male portion 195A (where 495A and 496A are similar) of the connection arrangement is shown, which includes a male portion (195A, 495A, 496A) and a female portion (195B, 495B, 496B), and if necessary, an adhesive between these portions to lock the housing ends to the end cap. Typically, the end cap includes a channel providing a female portion, wherein the apertures at the ends of the channel face the housing ends (usually closed at the other ends of the channel), and a male portion including a shoulder that engages the inner wall of the channel.

[0047] Aspects of the invention may include any number of connection arrangements for each associated shell end and end cap and / or nose cone, typically at least two, preferably three or more, with the illustrated aspects including six connection arrangements for each shell end and end cap.

[0048] Preferably, Figures 1B-1D In the aspects shown in Figures 9A and 9A, the first adsorbent element 170 and the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium 180 both have a tapered configuration, being narrower at the first end 151 of the first housing and wider at the second end 152 of the first housing. Advantageously, the tapered configuration can improve airflow, reduce pressure loss across the filter, and, combined with the non-tapered configuration of the second adsorbent element and the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium, maximize the available hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium surface area.

[0049] In the illustrated aspect of the MaVE filter 500, the filter further comprises: a first adsorption element end cap 175 (see Figures 4A-4C ), which is sealed to the second end 172 of the first adsorption element 170, and the first adsorption element end cap 175 is in contact with the intermediate end cap 310 (see Figures 5A-5C ); and the second adsorption element end cap 275 (see Figures 6A-6C ), which is sealed to the second end 272 of the second adsorption element 280, and the second adsorption element end cap is in contact with the second end cap 210 (see Figures 7A-7C ).

[0050] Preferably, the second end of the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium is held by the middle end cap 310, and the second end of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium is held by the second end cap 210. Since the second end of the hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium is held by the end cap (rather than sealed, such as potting with the end cap), the pleated end remains open (e.g., see Figure 1D and 8B ,in Figure 1D Specifically shown is the open second end of the second hydrophobic pleated porous medium; the open second end of the first hydrophobic pleated porous medium is arranged in the same manner), providing an open path for free water to pass from the upstream surface of the hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through the discharge channel and back into the filtered air flow, as shown in FIG. Figure 8B shown.

[0051] The hydrophobic pleated porous media can have any suitable pore structure, such as pore size (e.g., as demonstrated by bubble point, or by KL, as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,340,479, or by capillary condensation flow porosimetry), mean flow pore (MFP) size (e.g., when characterized using a porosimeter, such as Porvair Porometer (Porvair plc, Norfolk, UK), or a porosimeter available under the trademark POROLUX (Porometer.com; Belgium)), pore grade, pore diameter (e.g., when characterized using a modified OSU F2 test, such as described in U.S. Patent No. 4,925,572), or removal grade of the media. The pore structure used depends, for example, on the size of the particles to be removed and the desired effluent level of the filtered air. In some aspects, the hydrophobic porous medium (typically a membrane, preferably a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane) is microporous, with a pore size in the range of 3 microns to 20 microns, preferably in the range of 5 microns to 20 microns. Alternatively or additionally, in some aspects, the water intrusion pressure of the hydrophobic porous medium (typically a membrane, preferably a PTFE membrane) is in the range of 7 mbar to 25 mbar, preferably in the range of 10 mbar to 20 mbar.

[0052] In certain aspects, the adsorption medium is fixed to a porous substrate (e.g., foam) having 6-12 pores per inch, for example, 10 pores per inch. Alternatively or additionally, the adsorption medium fixed to the porous substrate (e.g., substrate having a thickness of about 10 mm) can have a pressure loss of less than 40 Pa at 1.0 m / s, or a pressure loss of less than 10 Pa at 0.35 m / s. The adsorption medium is used to adsorb volatile organic compounds having a boiling point of 50° C. or above. Suitable media and substrates are known in the art and are commercially available.

[0053] The corrugated hydrophobic porous media can have any desired critical wetting surface tension (CWST, as defined, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 4,925,572). The CWST can be selected as known in the art, for example, as further disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,152,905, 5,443,743, 5,472,621, and 6,074,869. In those aspects where the hydrophobic porous media is a porous PTFE membrane, the CWST is typically between 24 and 28 dynes / cm (24 to 28 x 10 -5 N / cm).

[0054] The filter may include additional elements, layers, or components that may have different structures and / or functions, such as at least one of any one or more of the following: pre-filtration, support, drainage, spacing, and buffering.

[0055] by Figures 9A-9E For reference, the illustrated aspect of the MaVE filter device 1000 according to the present invention includes a main housing 1200, which includes a main housing body 1100, an inlet pipe 1201 connected to a first end 1101 of the main housing body, and an outlet pipe 1202 connected to a second end 1102 of the main housing body; the illustrated aspect of the MaVE filter 500 is arranged in the main housing between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe. The inlet port of the inlet pipe and / or the outlet port of the outlet pipe can be offset from both ends of the filter, for example, the port can be offset from the linear axis of the MaVE filter (first filter first end to second filter second end). Figure 9C As shown, if desired, depending on the available space on the aircraft, the outlet tube port 1202A of the outlet tube 1202 can be offset from the second end of the filter 200. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, depending on the available space on the aircraft, the inlet tube port 1201A of the inlet tube 1201 can be offset from the first end of the filter 100.

[0056] In a preferred aspect, the second end 1102 of the main housing body includes at least one cavity for receiving a detent arrangement on the MaVE filter so that the MaVE filter can be locked in place within the main housing, e.g., so that the MaVE filter does not rotate. Figure 1B 、 1E 9B, the illustrated aspect of the MaVE filter includes three detent arrangements 291A, 291B and 291C on the second end cap 210 (shown including outwardly projecting bayonet tabs, see FIG. Figure 1E292B in the main housing body) which fit within cavities 1100A, 1100B, and 1100C in the second end of the main housing body. The detent arrangement comprises a threaded stainless steel housing, each housing containing a spring and a ball bearing, wherein the spring loads the ball bearings and once the MaVE filter is inserted into the main housing body, the bayonet rotates (e.g., approximately 5°) to lock into place in the cavity in a locked position that receives the spring-loaded ball bearings. Figure 1E (reference 497B) and 7A (reference 497A-497C) show the position of the inserted housing (a).

[0057] by Figure 9A and 9I The illustrated aspects are for reference only, the MaVe filter device comprises: a first clamping arrangement 1401 which clamps the inlet tube 1201 to the first end 1101 of the housing body ( Figure 9A The inlet tube and the first end are shown in contact without the first clamping arrangement, Figure 9I and a second clamping arrangement 1402, which clamps the outlet tube 1202 to the second end 1102 of the main housing body ( Figure 9A The outlet tube is shown in contact with the second end, without the second clamping arrangement, Figure 9I (The structure is shown clamped together by a second clamping arrangement). Although the clamping arrangement is shown as a V-band clamp, various clamping arrangements are suitable and are known in the art. In this illustrated aspect, spider plate 1600 (fitted within the first end of the first housing and radially supporting the filter by engaging with the first end cap of the filter; see Figures 9J-9K ) is arranged between the inlet pipe and the first end of the shell body and is also clamped by the first clamping structure.

[0058] Typically, two or more MaVE filter devices (and two or more systems discussed below), more typically three or more MaVE filter devices (and three or more systems), will be used on an aircraft, replacing a section of the original equipment manufacturing pipe in the distribution line downstream of the air mixing unit (mixing chamber). In certain aspects, five MaVE filter devices or five systems including MaVE filter devices will be employed, each located in a separate distribution line (e.g., see Figure 10 ). Preferably, the use of inlet and outlet pipes allows the standardized housing to be fitted into the desired location and interfaced with existing aircraft pipes with minimal pressure loss. The inlet and outlet pipes and / or associated pipe ports can be arranged and used in a variety of available spaces. For example, as described above and as Figure 9C As shown, the outlet tube port may be offset relative to the second end of the filter 200 .

[0059] In a preferred aspect, a system 2000 for filtering aircraft air includes a MaVE filter device 1000 and further includes a bypass valve 1500 including a pivotable bypass plate 1501 , the bypass valve being disposed within a hollow sleeve 1305 having a first end 1301 and a second end 1302 , wherein the sleeve 1305 is disposed between the main housing body and the outlet pipe, and when the bypass valve is open, the sleeve provides a flow path for aircraft air through the MaVE filter device that partially bypasses the MaVE filter 500 (i.e., the bypass plate is pivoted to provide an open flow path through the sleeve; while a portion of the aircraft air passes through the sleeve and the outlet pipe port 1202A, the MaVE filter is not completely bypassed because a portion of the aircraft air will pass through the filter 500, including through the first and second stage filters and through the second end cap). In certain aspects, partially bypassing the MaVE filter may include passing some aircraft air through at least one component of the MaVE filter 500 (e.g., the first and / or second stage filters) but not through the second end cap, and then passing the air through the sleeve and outlet tube port.

[0060] Figure 9C and 9H The illustrated aspect also shows a bypass valve actuator 1510, which includes a stepper motor for driving the bypass valve 1500. When the bypass valve is closed (i.e., the bypass plate is pivoted to block the flow path through the sleeve), aircraft air flows through the MaVE filter 500 (including through the second end cap, rather than the sleeve).

[0061] In certain aspects, the bypass valve can be operated such that the bypass plate is pivoted less than fully to reduce flow through the sleeve, rather than blocking flow through the sleeve.

[0062] A wide variety of bypass valves and associated components, such as valve actuators and stepper motors, are suitable products known in the art. Commercially available valves and associated components are suitable.

[0063] The sleeve may be attached by a clamping arrangement, such as a V-band clamp and / or an elastic sleeve. Figure 9L A first end 1301 of the hollow sleeve and a resilient sleeve 1325 sealing the first end 1301 (hollow sleeve inlet) to the main housing body are shown, the resilient sleeve being clamped in place by a clamping arrangement 1403 illustrated as two band clamps (1403A, 1403B), and a second end 1302 of the hollow sleeve (hollow sleeve outlet) being clamped to the main housing body end cap 1105 by a clamping arrangement 1404 illustrated as a V-shaped band clamp.

[0064] The control system 2500 (e.g., motor control unit) communicates with various systems 2000 used to filter the aircraft air (see Figure 11, which shows an exemplary control system for controlling a bypass valve in a system 2000 and communicating with the aircraft BUS and a central processing unit, which receives data from sensors and sends commands to a motor control unit, for example, where the system 2000 is installed in the flight deck supply line and the low-pressure distribution line of each of the four cabin distribution lines, including sensors for monitoring target ECS parameters, for example, any one or more of the following: recirculation fan performance (e.g., recirculation fan stall); mixing chamber pressure (e.g., mixing chamber overpressure, such as >25 mbar); pipe flow imbalance (single line / individual pipe blockage); and low flow to the flight deck (reduced cockpit flow). Operation (activation or opening) of the bypass valve enables the MaVE filter to bypass, ensuring that airflow to the cabin and flight deck is maintained once one or more target ECS parameters are achieved. The specific target parameters and / or the specific values or rates of the target parameters and the timing of the operation may vary depending on, for example, the requirements of the specific aircraft and / or aircraft manufacturer.

[0065] Preferably, if Figure 9A As shown, a system 2000 for filtering aircraft air includes: at least one upstream differential pressure sensor 1801, which is arranged in one filter device 1000 upstream of the first-stage filter 100 (for example, fitted on the inlet pipe of a single filter device); and at least one downstream differential pressure sensor 1802, which is arranged in each filter device 1000 downstream of the second-stage filter 200 (for example, fitted on the outlet pipe of each filter device). For example, referring to Figure 11 (discussed in more detail below), 1801 represents the differential pressure sensor SP1 (disposed upstream, fitted on the inlet pipe of a filter device 1000 in one system 2000), where if the aircraft includes 5 systems, each system including a separate MaVE filter device, then 1802 (disposed downstream, fitted on the outlet pipe of each filter device 1000 in each other system 2000) can represent SP3 in the system that also includes SP1, and 1802 can (individually) represent SP4, SP5, SP6 and SP7 in the other 4 systems (excluding the upstream differential pressure sensor 1801).

[0066] Figure 11An exemplary arrangement of differential pressure sensors in a control system 2500 (e.g., a motor control unit) that controls a bypass valve connected to a MaVE filter device in system 2000 is shown (where "STBD" refers to starboard (right); port refers to left; "D / S" refers to downstream, "Aft" refers to aft; and "DP" refers to differential pressure). Thus, for example, to prevent the recirculation fan from stalling to maintain recirculation air flow and protect the recirculation fan, the fan pressure differential derived from sensors SP1 and SP2 (differential pressure sensors SP1 and SP2 are connected to existing pressure bands built into the recirculation filter housing. Since these bands are located between the recirculation filter and the fan, the fan generates a low pressure rather than a positive pressure) to sensor SP8 can be used to deduce flow conditions to ensure that the fan flow does not decrease below a target parameter value (rate), for example, a pressure differential of 26-34 mbar. Regarding cockpit flow, if the bypass valve is opened, for example, in the event of a blockage in the cockpit line or when the recirculation fan flow rate drops below the minimum requirement, the flow rate can be maintained (e.g., so that the downstream static differential can be monitored, e.g., from sensor SP5 to sensor SP6). Monitoring the downstream static pressure differential can reflect blockages in individual pipes, as indicated by the static pressure differential downstream of each MaVE device. Under normal operating conditions, the mixing chamber can be protected from exceeding the certification limit (e.g., 25 mbar) for an extended period by monitoring sensor SP8, which is arranged upstream of the MaVE device.

[0067] While the specific values of the target parameters and the operating times may vary depending on, for example, a particular aircraft, the following is an example of a control system that continuously monitors (e.g., even when the valve is open to distinguish between transient and permanent blockage conditions): If the bypass valve is activated (actuated / opened), after operating for W minutes (e.g., 5 minutes), the control system should close the bypass valve; if any target parameter value is subsequently reached within X minutes (e.g., 2 minutes), the bypass valve is reactivated; the control system repeats the bypass valve closing cycle twice more, once after a further Y minutes (e.g., 15 minutes) and then, if necessary, after a further Z minutes (e.g., 30 minutes). If, after the third attempt, the bypass valve activation is still triggered, all bypass valves remain activated and a check for closure is performed (e.g., once per hour).

[0068] The following examples further illustrate the invention but, of course, should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way.

[0069] Example

[0070] This example demonstrates that a MaVE filter device according to one aspect of the present invention manages water over a range of water injection rates. The MaVE filter device exhibits stable operation at a water injection rate of 350 ml / min for over 60 minutes, with a maximum filtration differential pressure of 2.5 to 3.0 mbar throughout the entire period.

[0071] The results were compared to prototype filter devices without water management features. These prototype filter devices showed stable operation at a water injection rate of 20 ml / min, but when challenged with 200 ml / min, the pressure drop across the filter increased by 9.5 mbar, with the test terminated after 16 minutes when the pressure drop across the filter reached 11.5 mbar.

[0072] All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein.

[0073] In the context of describing the present invention (particularly in the context of the appended claims), the use of the terms "one" and "the", "said" and "at least one" and similar references should be interpreted as covering two aspects: singular and plural, unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. The list of one or more items followed by the term "at least one" (e.g., "at least one of A and B") should be understood to refer to an item selected from the listed items (A or B), or any combination of two or more listed items (A and B), unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context. Unless otherwise stated, the terms "comprise", "have", "include" and "with" should be interpreted as open terms (i.e., meaning "including but not limited to"). Unless otherwise noted herein, the enumeration of numerical ranges herein is only intended to be used as a shorthand method for referring to each individual value falling within the range, and each individual value is incorporated into the specification as if it were separately narrated herein. Unless otherwise noted herein or clearly contradicted by the context, all methods described herein can be performed in any appropriate order. Unless otherwise claimed, the use of any and all examples or exemplary language (e.g., "such as") provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not limit the scope of the invention. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

[0074] The preferred aspects of the present invention are described herein, including the best mode for carrying out the present invention known to the inventor. Variations of those preferred aspects will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect that skilled artisans will appropriately adopt such variations, and the inventors wish to practice the present invention in a manner different from that specifically described herein. Therefore, the present invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter described in the appended claims as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, unless otherwise noted herein or clearly contradicted by context, the present invention encompasses any combination of the above-mentioned elements in all possible variations thereof.

Claims

1. A system for filtering aircraft air, comprising: (A) A mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter assembly comprising: a main housing comprising a main housing body, an inlet pipe connected to a first end of the main housing body, and an outlet pipe connected to a second end of the main housing body; and a mist and vapor elimination (MaVE) filter comprising a first-stage filter and a second-stage filter; (a) The first stage hollow filter includes: The first housing has a first housing first end and a first housing second end; and the first housing is provided with: (i) a first adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; and (ii) a first hydrophobic corrugated hollow porous medium surrounding the first adsorption element; The first-stage hollow filter includes a first end cap connected to the first end of the first housing; (b) The second stage hollow filter includes: The second housing has a second housing first end and a second housing second end; and the second housing is provided with: (iii) a second adsorption element comprising activated carbon and / or activated clay; (iv) a second hydrophobic corrugated hollow porous medium surrounding the second adsorption element; The second-stage hollow filter includes a second end cap connected to the second end of the second housing; The second end of the first shell is connected to the first end of the second shell through the middle end cover; The intermediate end cap includes a first drain passage between the first housing second end and the second housing first end; and The second end cap includes a second drain passage located at the second end of the second housing; wherein the mist and vapor elimination filter device is arranged in the main housing between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; The system further comprises: (B) A bypass valve including a pivotable bypass plate disposed in a hollow sleeve, wherein the hollow sleeve is disposed between the main housing body and the outlet pipe, the hollow sleeve providing an aircraft air flow path through the MaVE filter arrangement, partially bypassing the MaVE filter, when the bypass valve is open.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first adsorption element and the first hydrophobic corrugated hollow porous medium both have a tapered configuration.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the MaVE filter further comprises: a first adsorption element end cap sealed to one end of the first adsorption element, the first adsorption element end cap being in contact with the intermediate end cap; and A second adsorption element end cap is sealed to one end of the second adsorption element, the second adsorption element end cap being in contact with the second end cap.

4. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first hydrophobic corrugated hollow porous medium is held by a middle end cap and the second hydrophobic corrugated hollow porous medium is held by a second end cap.

5. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the intermediate end cap provides a drain clearance for the first drain channel in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm, and the second end cap provides a drain clearance for the second drain channel in the range of 6 mm to 18 mm.

6. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the MaVE filter comprises at least two connection arrangements connecting the first housing second end to the intermediate end cap, and at least two additional connection arrangements connecting the second housing second end to the second end cap.

7. The system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first-stage hollow filter comprises a first-stage outer cage and a first-stage inner core; and the second-stage hollow filter comprises a second-stage outer cage and a second-stage inner core.

8. A method of filtering aircraft cabin air, the method comprising: Passing aircraft air through the system according to any one of claims 1 to 7; Open the bypass valve; as well as Aircraft air is flowed through the MaVE filter assembly while partially bypassing the MaVE filter.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising closing the bypass valve and flowing the aircraft air through the MaVE filter.

10. The method of claim 8 or 9, comprising collecting free water on an upstream surface of a first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium and collecting free water on an upstream surface of a second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium.

11. The method of claim 8 or 9, comprising passing free water collected on the upstream surface of the first hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a first drainage channel, and passing free water collected on the upstream surface of the second hydrophobic pleated hollow porous medium through a second drainage channel.

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