Modular filter capsule device

Abstract

A modular filter capsule device is disclosed having a filter housing defining a filter chamber having a top hat with a plurality of ports extending generally laterally from a top end of the top hat. The lateral and generally uniform orientation of the ports facilitates connection to a panel mount assembly and improves the filter maintenance process. A delivery tube extending along the length of the capsule allows heated fluid to be introduced from a top mounted inlet port to the bottom of the capsule chamber to allow for a generally uniform thermal gradient in the capsule filter chamber. A dispersion ring or dispersion plate can be secured to the distal end of the delivery tube to facilitate uniform dispersion of liquid and / or gas introduced into the capsule device.

Description

[0001] Information related to divisional application

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 28, 2020, with application number "202011581627.2" and invention title "Modular Filter Capsule Device". The aforementioned invention patent application is also a divisional application of the invention patent application filed on December 16, 2015, with application number "201580075965.X" and invention title "Modular Filter Capsule Device".

[0003] Cross-references to related applications

[0004] This PCT application corresponds to and claims priority to U.S. Utility Application No. 14 / 572,766, filed December 16, 2014, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Utility Application No. 13 / 041,866, filed February 22, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 446,487, filed February 24, 2011, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0005] This disclosure relates to a filter capsule assembly for a closed filter that separates and removes solid, liquid, and / or gaseous contaminants and / or mixtures and introduces a liquid or gas into a second liquid or gas. More particularly, this disclosure relates to combined filter housings or enclosures that close the filter and filter capsule inlet and outlet configurations, thereby improving uniform heat transfer of heated or cooled liquids introduced into the filter capsule assembly, allowing for the combined use of loose media and filter membranes and cartridges, and improving the applicability and adaptability of larger components. Background Technology

[0006] To filter liquids and / or gases containing unwanted contaminants, filters and / or purification media (e.g., granular resin, particulate carbon, carbon fiber, soda lime, etc.) are used within a closed filter housing to achieve contaminant removal. In conventional filter capsule constructions, ports are positioned to occupy different planes or extend from the capsule in different directions, as illustrated, for example, in published application US 2010 / 0282665. In this application, the inlet and outlet ports are located at diameter-opposite positions at the top of the capsule. This construction requires significant space within larger components to receive the capsule and secure the ports, thus limiting possible orientation variations if a panel-mount construction is required. It further increases the effort required to attach the capsule, as connections must be made in two completely different locations. What is needed is a filter capsule with ports oriented to extend from the capsule in a consistent direction to reduce the space required for attachment to larger components and to facilitate simultaneous connection of multiple tubes for introducing and venting desired fluids and / or gases.

[0007] Another issue associated with filter capsules (especially those with an inlet port located at the top) is post-filtration hygiene. The infusion of hot liquids (or even, in some applications, the introduction of cooling liquids and / or gases), such as hot water for hygienic treatment, results in a significant temperature gradient, whereby the liquid introduced into the top of the filter capsule (where the inlet port is located) is much warmer than the liquid at the bottom of the capsule. What is needed is an inlet system that originates from the top of the filter capsule but directs the incoming hot (or cooling) liquid to the bottom of the capsule to utilize the rising heat transfer from the introduced liquid and / or gas to create a significantly more uniform temperature gradient from bottom to top.

[0008] Additional problems arise when attempting to combine loose particulate-based filters (such as activated carbon) with membrane- or cartridge-based filters consisting of membranes and fibrous filter media. Loose resin-based filter materials (such as activated carbon filters) are granular and create a flow field that allows liquids and / or gases to flow only in a single direction. Cartridge-based filters, with the addition of a defined and designated downstream core located downstream of the loose particulate material, further restrict the outlet port to be positioned downstream or at the bottom of the capsule. For applications with tight space requirements, it is currently not possible to position the outlet at the top or upstream end of the capsule when using loose materials (such as loose particulate-based filter media). What is needed is a filter capsule structure that allows the outlet port to be positioned at the top of the filter capsule when using a specific loose filter media. These and other objects of this disclosure will become apparent from the following summary and detailed description of the invention and from viewing the accompanying drawings. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In one aspect of this disclosure, a capsule device for a closed filter includes a plurality of ports extending from the top of the device, wherein at least a portion of each port extends at an angle substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the capsule. Alternatively, the angle may deviate from the orthogonal orientation by about + / -30° and up to + / -45°. The ports are also oriented to extend from the capsule in the same generally direction and occupy substantially the same plane. Each port is dedicated to a specific function, such as inlet, outlet, and discharge.

[0010] In another aspect of this disclosure, at least two ports include quick-connect fittings for easy, efficient, and reliable connection and disconnection with larger components or with dedicated inlet or outlet (and optional drain) pipes. Each fitting may be configured as either a male or female fitting to accommodate various connection configurations and requirements. Each fitting may also be configured to include a check valve integrated with either a male or female fitting.

[0011] In another aspect of this disclosure, a fluid inlet is formed and positioned at the top of the filter capsule. A delivery tube is formed on, inside, or within the wall of the filter capsule and extends along the length of the filter capsule wall. The inlet is connected to and in fluid communication with the proximal end of the delivery tube. The distal end of the tube extends at least adjacent to the bottom end of the capsule. The distal end opens into a filter chamber and allows flow of fluid introduced into the tube from the bottom end of the chamber into the filter chamber. An optional dispersion ring having multiple holes or grooves may be formed or fixed in the bottom end of the filter chamber, in fluid communication with the bottom or distal end of the delivery tube. In yet another alternative embodiment, a dispersion plate formed having multiple holes or grooves may be placed or formed in the filter chamber adjacent to the bottom end of the chamber to create a dispersion chamber for uniformly dispersing liquid and / or gas introduced into the filter chamber via the delivery tube around the closed filter cartridge / filter.

[0012] In another aspect of this disclosure, a filter capsule includes a cylindrical shroud formed or disposed within the capsule's inner walls and a filter fixed therein. The shroud extends generally from the top of the inner capsule to a point or plane immediately adjacent to, but substantially not in contact with, the bottom of the capsule, thereby forming a gap between the bottom edge of the shroud and the inner wall of the capsule's bottom. The shroud, combined with the capsule's inner wall, forms a first annular chamber extending generally from the inner top of the capsule to a point or plane immediately adjacent to, but not in contact with, the bottom of the capsule. A second annular chamber is formed between the inner wall of the shroud and the closed filter. The gap formed at the bottom between the shroud and the capsule's bottom allows fluid communication between the chambers at the bottom of the capsule. An inlet extending from the capsule and in fluid communication with the first chamber allows fluid to flow downwards from the inlet through the first annular chamber, through the gap, and upwards into a second filter-receiving chamber.

[0013] In another aspect of this disclosure, a device for securing and housing a filter includes a capsule having a series of ports extending from the top of the capsule. Each port is oriented to extend generally along the longitudinal axis of the capsule. The ports are configured to extend in generally the same direction to facilitate manual connection to a larger assembly including a panel mount.

[0014] In another aspect of this disclosure, a filter capsule houses a filter cartridge or membrane and loose particulate filter material, having an outlet tube extending downward and in fluid communication with an outlet port. The filter cartridge defines a downstream core in fluid communication with the outlet tube. This allows the inlet and outlet ports to be aligned with a single flow pattern at the same end of the capsule to allow the use of loose particulate filter material. These and other aspects of this disclosure will become apparent from viewing the accompanying drawings and reading the following detailed description of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a side elevation view of a filter capsule according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The bottom view of the filter capsule embodiment shown.

[0017] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of an embodiment of the filter capsule shown.

[0018] Figure 4 This is a side elevation view of a filter capsule according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional and perspective view of a filter capsule and port connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional and perspective view of a filter capsule and port connector according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of a filter capsule and port connector according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 8 This is a side elevation view of a filter capsule according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The bottom view of the filter capsule embodiment shown.

[0024] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A perspective view of an embodiment of the filter capsule shown.

[0025] Figure 11 It is based on Figure 8 The filter capsule and port connector of the present disclosure are shown in cross-section and perspective view.

[0026] Figure 12 This is a cross-sectional elevation view of a filter capsule having aligned ports and a central tube according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The top view of the filter capsule shown.

[0028] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 The filter capsule shown is a top-down side perspective view.

[0029] Figure 15 This is a side cross-sectional elevation view of a filter capsule having a delivery tube and a dispersion ring according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The diagram shows a top cross-sectional view of the conveying pipe and the dispersing ring.

[0031] Figure 17 This is a side cross-sectional elevation view of a filter capsule having a delivery tube and a dispersion plate according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 The top view of the conveyor pipe and the dispersion plate shown. Detailed Implementation

[0033] refer to Figure 1-3In accordance with 5-7, in one aspect of this disclosure, a filter capsule device is shown generally as designated 10. The capsule 10 includes a generally cylindrical capsule body 12 defining a generally hollow filter chamber configured to house one or more filters 34. The capsule 10 may be formed into other regular or irregular geometries depending on the application to accommodate a wide variety of larger component configurations to which the capsule is attached and / or to a wide variety of filter shape configurations. The capsule dimensions are determined to provide an uninterrupted annular space around the enclosed filter 34 to ensure unobstructed fluid flow along the axial length of the filter cartridge.

[0034] To seal the top of capsule 10, a top cap 14, having a generally cylindrical shape (or other shape depending on the cross-sectional shape of the capsule body 12) conforming to the shape and size of capsule body 12 and having a closed end and an opposing open end, is thermally welded to the open end of capsule body 12 to form a top cap connector 16. In an alternative embodiment, capsule body 12 and top cap 14 may be formed with corresponding threaded surfaces or male / female sections as an alternative means of securing top cap 14 to capsule body 12. If snap-fit ​​surfaces are used, sealing elements (e.g., O-rings with corresponding mounting channels) may be used to create an airtight / fluid seal. Adhesives, epoxy resins, etc., may also be used to secure top cap 14 to capsule body 12.

[0035] Depending on whether the other end of the capsule body 12 is closed, the top cap 14 can be engaged to the capsule body 12 before or after the filter is installed. In another alternative embodiment, the top cap 14 is formed together with the capsule body 12 in the same molding process. In this embodiment, the bottom cap, disclosed below, is not formed in the same molding process as the top cap 14 and the capsule body 12.

[0036] For capsule bodies without an integral bottom, to close the bottom end of the capsule body 12, a bottom cap 18 having a generally cylindrical shape (or other shape depending on the cross-sectional shape of the capsule body) conforming to the shape and size of the capsule body 12 and having a closed end and an opposing open end is thermally welded to the open end of the capsule 10 to form a bottom cap connector 20. In an alternative embodiment, the capsule body 12 and the bottom cap 18 may be formed with corresponding threaded surfaces or male / female sections as an alternative means of securing the bottom cap 18 to the capsule body 12. If a snap-fit ​​surface is used, a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring) may be used to create an airtight / fluid seal. Adhesives, epoxy resins, etc., may also be used to secure the bottom cap 18 to the capsule body 12.

[0037] Depending on whether the other end of the capsule body 12 is already closed (if modular) or closed as part of the formation process of the capsule body 12, the bottom cap 18 may be engaged to the capsule body 12 before or after the filter is installed. In another alternative embodiment, the bottom cap 18 is formed together with the capsule body 12 in the same molding process. In this embodiment, the top cap disclosed above is not formed in the same molding process as the bottom cap 18 and the capsule body 12.

[0038] The bottom cap 18 can be formed to have a mounting post 22, which is configured to receive a corresponding mounting accessory from a larger component such as a mounting panel. The combination of the capsule body 12, the top cap 14, and the bottom cap 18 forms the capsule 10.

[0039] In another alternative embodiment, instead of mounting post 22, a drain port may be formed in the bottom cap 18 to allow fluid to drain from the bottom end of the capsule 10, without engaging a dedicated outlet port formed in the top cap 14, as described in more detail below. The drain port may be configured to have male or female connector ends and may also include quick-connect fittings and modular or integrated check valves to prevent unwanted flow of fluid and / or gas from the capsule.

[0040] Multiple ports configured for connection to and providing fluid communication with a liquid / gas delivery and / or extraction source are formed on, integral with, or attached to, the top cap 14. The ports may be configured to have attachments, annular channels, etc., to receive sealing components, such as O-rings. More specifically, a sleeve-shaped, substantially hollow inlet port 24 is formed or fixed on the side edge of the top cap 14 to provide a means of infusing fluid and / or gas into a filter chamber formed within the capsule 10. The interface / engagement of the inlet port 24 with the top cap 14 may be located elsewhere around the cap, rather than on the side edge of the top cap 14.

[0041] Inlet port 24 includes a modular or integrated male or female connector 32 to accommodate and receive a corresponding connector 38 of a fluid delivery pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. Inlet port 24 may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when disassembling capsule 10 to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0042] A sleeve-shaped, substantially hollow discharge port 28 is formed, integral with, or attached to the side edge of the top cap 14 opposite the side edge occupied by the inlet port 24. The discharge port 28 is formed or fixed on the top cap 14 to provide a means of discharging unwanted liquids and / or gases present in the filter chamber defined by the capsule 10. The interface / joint of the discharge port 28 may be located at other locations around the cap, rather than on the side edge of the top cap 14.

[0043] When capsule 10 is filled with the desired liquid and / or gas, vent port 28 is initially opened to expel any resident gas. Vent port 28 is closed during normal operation or periodically opened for a limited period of time to allow the release of unwanted accumulated air and / or gas in the filter chamber.

[0044] The discharge port 28 includes a modular or integrated male or female connector 32 to accommodate and receive a corresponding connector 38 of a fluid receiving pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. The discharge port 28 may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when the capsule 10 is removed to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0045] An outlet port 26 is also attached to the top cap 14. The outlet port 26 may be formed substantially at the center of the top cap 14, integral with it, or attached thereto. A cylindrical protrusion 30 may be formed as an interface between the top cap 14 and the outlet port 26. The cylindrical protrusion 30 forms a chamber above the plane occupied by the top surface of the top cap 14, which allows the flow of air, gas, or fluid to be collected in the chamber and migrate out of the capsule 10 after purification by a closed filter. Particularly advantageous in fluid-based applications is the ability to collect and remove any unwanted air and / or gas that may have entered the capsule. If particulate matter passes through the filter 34, the cylindrical protrusion 30 provides an area for particulate matter collection, thereby minimizing any obstruction that particulate matter may cause to the outflow of fluid and / or gas from the capsule 10.

[0046] This configuration also allows the capsule 10 to be fully filled with the desired fluid and / or gas up to the highest point of the closed filter to ensure full utilization of the entire filter. In this way, the utilization of approximately the entire chamber area dedicated to housing one or more filters can be maximized for the intended purpose. The cylindrical protrusion 30 does not affect the overall capsule length because the desired length can be maintained by adjusting the outlet height to match the heights of the inlet and outlet ports, which can be even greater when the cylindrical protrusion 30 is incorporated into the top cap 14.

[0047] Outlet port 26 includes a modular or integrated male or female connector 32 to accommodate and receive a corresponding connector 38 of a fluid receiving pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. Outlet port 26 may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when the capsule 10 is removed to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0048] It should be understood that the flow of fluid and / or gas through the various ports can be reversed without any reduction in the function of the filter capsule. More specifically, the designated inlet port 24 can be used as an outlet port, and the designated outlet port 26 can be used as an inlet port. Additionally, the designated discharge port 28 can be used as either an inlet or outlet port. The device is designed to allow functional flow in either direction.

[0049] In this aspect of the disclosure, the inlet port 24, outlet port 26, and discharge port 28 are oriented in substantially the same plane, wherein each port extends laterally from capsule 10 at an angle substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of capsule 10. Alternatively, the ports may be aligned with or parallel to the orthogonal axis, or form an angle of approximately + / - 45° with the longitudinal axis from the orthogonal orientation. The ports may or may not occupy the same plane, but may be offset to accommodate attachment to a larger custom assembly.

[0050] In another alternative, each port may have a rod portion extending from the top cap 14, generally parallel to the longitudinal axis of capsule 10, and a distal portion continuous with the rod portion, deviating from the orientation parallel to the longitudinal axis of capsule. The distal portion forms an angle with the rod portion, wherein the distal portion occupies a plane generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of capsule. Alternatively, the distal portion may form an angle of approximately + / -30° with the longitudinal axis of capsule from an orthogonal orientation. The length of the rod portion can be varied to control the overall length of capsule.

[0051] Referring again to the configuration where the ports extend laterally from the top cap 14, this configuration reduces the overall height of the device so that it can fit within a compact portion of a larger assembly without any significant reduction in the amount of capsule space dedicated to accommodating one or more filters. The generally unidirectional port orientation also facilitates mounting on or within larger assemblies, particularly panel-mount assemblies, because all connection surfaces (i.e., ports) face approximately the same direction. The addition of quick-connect fittings further facilitates installation. Another advantage is that the position of all ports at approximately the highest point of capsule 10 allows for the approximate removal of closed filters at lower positions without overflow.

[0052] In another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 6As shown, the transfer tube 40 is integrally formed with or attached to the inner wall of the capsule 10 to provide a channel for conveying warm and / or cold liquids and / or gases from the top of the capsule 10 to the bottom of the capsule, without requiring the liquids and / or gases to first migrate through the filter chamber. The top of the transfer tube is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet port 24. If the outlet port 26 is to be designated as the inlet port, the transfer tube 40 is connected to this port to provide the desired functionality described below. The bottom of the transfer tube leads to and is in fluid communication with the bottom of the filter chamber formed and defined by the capsule 10. The bottom of the transfer tube is positioned immediately adjacent to the bottom of the filter chamber to introduce fluid at the lowest point in the filter chamber. This maximizes the beneficial effect of the transfer tube conveying hot liquid into the chamber and allows the development of a temperature gradient along the length of the capsule 10 to be minimized.

[0053] like Figure 6 As shown, fluid introduced into the capsule via inlet port 24 flows to the bottom of capsule 10 via transfer pipe 40 and flows upward through an uninterrupted annular space formed between the inner wall of capsule 10 and the outer cylindrical wall of filter 34. The fluid then flows across the filter toward the center of capsule 10 and exits upward through outlet port 26. Using this configuration, heated or cooled fluid or gas introduced into capsule 10 first flows to the bottom of capsule before entering the filter. In this way, normal thermodynamics causes the heated fluid / gas to rise in the chamber and dissipate heat, or promote cooling. The continuous transfer of heated or cooled liquid / gas to the bottom of capsule as the previously introduced fluid leaves transfer pipe 40 and rises along capsule creates a countercurrent effect, which minimizes the thermal gradient difference from the top to the bottom of capsule.

[0054] In another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 15 and 16 As shown, a filter capsule, generally shown as 10''', includes a capsule body 12''' defining a filter chamber 34''' in which a filter is fixed. The capsule has an inlet port 24''' and an outlet port 26''', as well as an optional discharge port 28'''. A delivery tube 40''' extends from the top of the capsule to a point or plane adjacent to the bottom and is in fluid communication with the inlet port 24'''. A dispersion plate 41 defining a channel around the bottom end of the filter chamber is formed or positioned at the bottom end of the filter chamber. This channel is in fluid communication with the delivery tube 40'''. A plurality of holes or grooves 41a are formed in the dispersion plate 41 to allow the flow of (heated or cooled) liquid and / or gas introduced into the delivery tube 40''' via the inlet port 24''' to flow uniformly around the bottom end of the filter chamber, thereby ensuring that the liquid and / or gas flowing into the chamber from all sides of the filter chamber substantially simultaneously is substantially uniform in temperature.

[0055] In another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 17 and 18As shown, it is generally represented as 10 iv The filter capsule includes a defined filter 34 iv Capsule body 12 fixed in the filter chamber iv The filter chamber size is determined to ensure that the filter is 34 iv A continuous annular space is maintained around the filter to allow unobstructed fluid flow along its axial length. The capsule has inlet ports 24. iv Export port 26 iv and optional emission port 28 iv Conveyor pipe 40 iv The point or plane extending from the top of the capsule to the adjacent bottom and connecting with the inlet port 24 iv Fluid communication. The dispersion plate 41 of the dispersion chamber 41b is defined at the bottom of the filter chamber. iv It is formed or positioned at the bottom of the filter chamber. Dispersion chamber 41b and conveying pipe 40 iv Fluid communication. Multiple holes or slots 41a iv Around the dispersion plate 41 iv The periphery is formed to allow liquids and / or gases introduced into the chamber to drain upwards around the filter 34. iv Within the chamber portion. It should be understood that pores can also be formed within any portion of the field of the dispersion plate to allow fluid to exit the chamber and travel upwards into the filtration chamber. If the closed filter is fixed to the dispersion plate or capsule body 12 at its bottom end. iv The location of the holes around the periphery of the dispersion plate at the bottom is particularly advantageous. If the filter is fixed to the inner surface of the bottom of the housing, the dispersion plate can be formed as a ring around the bottom of the filter / filter cartridge, specifically for securing the filter / filter cartridge to the housing. In this configuration, the dispersion chamber will be annular in shape and will have a series of holes around the entire plate to ensure uniform delivery of the heated or cooled fluid, whose temperature remains substantially uniform around the dispersion chamber and the filter / filter cartridge. The filter cartridge / filter can be secured to the bottom of the filter capsule or dispersion plate using friction-fit parts, one or more O-rings, thermal or acoustic bonding, adhesives, combinations of bonding methods, etc.

[0056] Refer again Figure 6 The transfer tube 40 avoids the generation of a significant thermal gradient that would occur in its absence. Without the transfer tube 40, the fluid introduced into the capsule 10 would follow... Figure 5The flow pattern is shown. Fluid enters the capsule from the top, flows downwards along the capsule by gravity feed, and crosses filter 34 as it flows downwards. Once the fluid flows through the filter, it enters the center of capsule 10 and exits from outlet port 26. In this configuration, any heated liquid or gas introduced into the capsule loses heat as it travels downwards along the capsule (assisted by gravity or pressure) and flows into filter 34. In doing so, a relatively large temperature gradient is created, whereby the fluid at the top of capsule 10 will have a much higher temperature than the fluid at the bottom of capsule 10.

[0057] To achieve a specific fluid temperature or target temperature at the bottom of capsule 10, the fluid introduced into the capsule from the top must have a temperature higher than the target temperature to account for heat loss as heat is transferred to the fluid towards the bottom of the capsule. This is particularly problematic when the fluid introduced into the capsule is intended to be used as a cleaning and / or hygienic liquid with the desired temperature. The constant upward heat transfer along the outer chamber as the liquid or gas reaches the bottom of the capsule shell will result in an unacceptably low liquid or gas temperature at the bottom of the shell, which can prevent proper cleaning and / or hygienic treatment of the closed filter cartridge / filter.

[0058] The use of the transfer tube 40 essentially eliminates these problems by utilizing well-known fluid thermodynamic properties, according to which a fluid seeks to reach thermal equilibrium by transferring heat from a relatively hot, relatively low-density fluid to a fluid with relatively low heat and relatively high density. By introducing a relatively hot liquid and / or gas at the bottom of the capsule shell, a relatively cooler, denser liquid at a higher altitude than the introduced hot liquid or gas will cause heat to be transferred upwards to the cooler liquid and prevent the formation of significant temperature gradients, as well as prevent any liquid or gas from existing at unacceptably low temperatures throughout the capsule. These are conditions that become prominent in a filter capsule when a fluid with relatively high heat and relatively low density is introduced at the bottom of the capsule. Heat is transferred naturally and more efficiently as it travels from the bottom to the top of the capsule. In this way, the fluid in the capsule remains at a more uniform temperature along the entire length of the capsule as heat is transferred upwards along the closed fluid.

[0059] In an alternative embodiment, to further minimize the temperature gradient, a check valve may be integrally formed or installed within the distal end of the delivery tube 40 to prevent fluid and / or gas from flowing back up the delivery tube into the inlet port 24. This ensures that any heated fluid introduced into the capsule reaches the bottom of the capsule, thereby maintaining maximum thermal uniformity and efficiency.

[0060] In another embodiment of this disclosure, a delivery tube is formed on the outer surface of the capsule 10. The top end of the tube is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet port 24. The bottom end of the tube is connected to a hole formed in the bottom end of the capsule body 12 or in the side wall of the bottom cap 18, thereby providing fluid communication with the bottom interior of the capsule 10 and allowing fluid to enter the capsule at the lowest point of the filter chamber defined by the capsule.

[0061] By using a delivery tube located outside the filter capsule shell wall, embedded in the wall, or formed or attached to the inner surface of the shell wall, liquids and / or gases (especially heated liquids and / or gases) can be introduced into the filter chamber approximately at the bottom of the filter chamber to allow heat introduced into the chamber to flow upwards to the higher layers of the fluid and / or gas, ensuring a relatively uniform temperature gradient. Existing systems have top-mounted inlet ports configured to direct fluids and / or gases to the uppermost part of the filter chamber, resulting in a significant temperature gradient because colder, denser fluids and / or gases tend to migrate to the bottom of the chamber, while hotter, less dense fluids and / or gases tend to remain in the upper part of the chamber.

[0062] In another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 7 As shown, a shroud 42 is formed in an annular cavity between the filter 34 and the inner wall of the capsule 10. The upper end of the shroud 42 creates a separation between the three ports, isolating each port from the others. The lower end of the shroud 42 does not extend to the bottom of the capsule 10, thereby providing a fluid path between the two annular chambers formed by the presence of the shroud 42. A first annular chamber 43 is formed between the inner wall of the capsule 10 and the outer wall of the shroud 42. A second annular chamber 45 is formed between the inner wall of the shroud 42 and the outer wall of the filter 34.

[0063] Fluid introduced into the capsule flows from inlet port 24 into the first annular chamber 43. The fluid flows downwards along the first annular chamber until it reaches the bottom of the capsule 10. The fluid then crosses the end of the shroud 42 and flows upwards into the second annular chamber 45, from which it enters and crosses the filter. The fluid then flows out of the filter into the central chamber and out from outlet port 26. In this configuration, discharge port 28 must be closed to ensure that the flow follows the path through the annular chamber and exits through the outlet port.

[0064] The use of shroud 42 establishes a countercurrent flow, allowing some heat from the higher-temperature fluid in the first annular chamber to be transferred through shroud 42 (especially if the shroud is made of a material with good thermal conductivity, such as aluminum) to the upward-flowing, lower-temperature fluid in the second annular chamber 45. This heat exchange allows the fluids to achieve a relatively uniform temperature gradient because the highest-temperature fluid at the very top of the first annular chamber 43 transfers heat to the coldest fluid at the top of the second annular chamber 45. The second-highest-temperature fluid below the hottest fluid at the top transfers heat to the second-coldest level of liquid in the second chamber until the fluid reaches the bottom of the shroud, where the temperature of the fluid on either side of the bottom of shroud 42 is approximately equivalent. If heat transfer through shroud 42 is undesirable, shroud 42 can be constructed of a poorly thermally conductive material known in the art.

[0065] In another aspect of this disclosure, such as Figure 4 As shown, the filter capsule 10' is formed having or having attached a plurality of ports extending generally upward from the top surface of the cap 14'. It should be understood that elements indicated by superscript numbers in one embodiment correspond to elements in other embodiments having the same unsuperscripted or different superscripted numbers. The capsule 10' includes a generally cylindrical capsule body 12' defining a generally hollow filter chamber configured to accommodate one or more filters. The capsule 10' may be formed into other regular or irregular geometries depending on the application to accommodate a wide variety of larger component configurations to which the capsule is attached and / or to a wide variety of filter shape configurations.

[0066] To close the proximal tip of the capsule body 12', a top cap 14' having a generally cylindrical shape conforming to the shape and size of the capsule body 12' and having a closed end and an opposing open end is heat-welded to the proximal end of the capsule body 12' to form a top cap connector 16'. In an alternative embodiment, the capsule body 12' and the top cap 14' may be formed with corresponding threaded surfaces or male / female sections as an alternative means of securing the top cap 14' to the capsule body 12'. If a snap-fit ​​surface is used, a sealing element (e.g., an O-ring) may be used to create an airtight / fluid-tight seal. Depending on whether the other end of the capsule 10' is closed, the top cap 14' may be engaged to the capsule body 12' before or after filter installation.

[0067] To close the distal bottom end of capsule 10', a bottom cap 18', having a generally cylindrical shape conforming to the shape and size of capsule body 12' and having a closed end and an opposing open end, is heat-welded to the distal end of capsule body 12' to form bottom cap connector 20'. In an alternative embodiment, capsule body 12' and bottom cap 18' may be formed with corresponding threaded surfaces or male / female sections as an alternative way to secure bottom cap 18' to capsule body 12'. If snap-fit ​​surfaces are used, sealing elements (e.g., O-rings) may be used to create an airtight / fluid-tight seal. Similar to top cap 14', depending on whether the other end of capsule 10' is closed, bottom cap 18' may be engaged to capsule body 12' before or after filter installation. Bottom cap 18' may be formed with mounting post 22', configured to receive corresponding mounting accessories from a larger component such as a mounting plate.

[0068] In an alternative embodiment, instead of mounting post 22', a drain port may be formed in bottom cap 18' to allow fluid to drain from the bottom of capsule 10', without engaging a dedicated outlet port formed in top cap 14', as described more fully below. The drain port may be configured as a male or female connector and may also include quick-connect fittings and modular or integrated check valves.

[0069] Multiple ports configured to provide fluid communication with a fluid delivery or extraction source are formed on or attached to the top cap 14'. A sleeve-shaped inlet port 24' is substantially hollow and is formed or fixed on the side edge of the top cap 14' to provide a means of infusing fluid and / or gas into a filter chamber contained within the capsule 10'. The interface / connection of the inlet port 24' can be located at locations other than the side edge of the top cap 14'.

[0070] Inlet port 24' includes a modular or integrated male or female connector to accommodate and receive a corresponding fitting of the fluid delivery pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. Inlet port 24' may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when disassembling capsule 10' to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0071] A sleeve-shaped discharge port 28' is formed on or attached to the side edge of the top cap 14', opposite the side edge occupied by the inlet port 24'. The discharge port 28' is substantially hollow and is formed or fixed to the top cap 14' to provide a means of venting unwanted fluids and / or gases present in the filter chamber contained within the capsule 10'. It also provides a means of matching the internal pressure of the capsule 10' to ambient pressure conditions. The interface / connection of the discharge port 28' can be located at locations other than the side edge of the top cap 14'.

[0072] The discharge port 28' includes a modular or integrated male or female connector to accommodate and receive a corresponding fitting of a fluid receiving pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. The discharge port 28' may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when the capsule 10' is removed to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0073] A sleeve-shaped outlet port 26' is also attached to the top cap 14'. The outlet port 26' may be formed on or attached to the top cap 14' substantially at its center. A cylindrical protrusion 30' may be formed as an interface between the top cap 14' and the outlet port 26'. The cylindrical protrusion 30' provides a closed area above the plane of the top cap 14' to allow air or other unwanted substances or gases to rise and concentrate for release through the outlet port 26'. This configuration allows the capsule 10' to be completely filled with the desired fluid and / or gas without compromising any area of ​​the chamber formed by the capsule 10' specifically for housing the filter in the desired fluid and / or gas.

[0074] Outlet port 26' includes a modular or integrated male or female connector to accommodate and receive a corresponding fitting of a fluid receiving pipe or channel to allow fluid and / or gas to pass through the pipe / port joint in a substantially leak-free, airtight manner. Outlet port 26' may also include an integrated or modular check valve to prevent fluid release or spillage when disassembling capsule 10' to remove, replace, or servic (one or more) internal filters.

[0075] In this aspect of the disclosure, the inlet port 24', outlet port 26', and discharge port 28' are oriented in substantially the same plane, wherein each port extends vertically or upward from capsule 10', and the plane occupied by the port is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal capsule 10'. Alternatively, the port may occupy a plane forming an angle of approximately + / -45° with the longitudinal axis from the parallel orientation. In another alternative embodiment, the port may or may not occupy the same plane, but may be offset to accommodate attachment to a larger custom component.

[0076] This configuration, with its generally uniform port orientation (whereby the ports extend roughly vertically from the top of capsule 10'), does not reduce the overall height of the device, but facilitates manual connection to the mating connectors when they are not panel-mounted. The addition of quick-connect couplings further simplifies installation. Furthermore, the positioning of all ports at approximately the highest point of capsule 10' allows for the removal of the contained filter without overflow.

[0077] In another aspect of this disclosure, the delivery pipe 40' is integrally formed with or attached to the inner wall of the capsule 10' to provide a channel for delivering warm fluid and / or gas from the top of the capsule 10' to the bottom of the capsule 10' without requiring fluid and / or gas flow through the filter chamber. The top of the delivery pipe is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet port 24'. The bottom of the delivery pipe leads to and is in fluid communication with the bottom of the filter chamber formed by the capsule 10' to allow fluid to enter the chamber at the lowest point in the chamber. In an alternative embodiment, a check valve may be integrally formed with or mounted within the distal end of the delivery pipe 40' to prevent fluid and / or gas from flowing back up the delivery pipe into the inlet port 24'.

[0078] In another embodiment of this disclosure, such as Figure 8-11 As shown, an external delivery tube 40'' is formed on the outer surface of capsule 10''. The top end of the tube is connected to and in fluid communication with the inlet port 24'' via a top hole. The bottom end of the tube is connected to a hole 39 formed in the bottom end of capsule 10'' or the side wall of the bottom cap 18'', thereby providing fluid communication with the interior of capsule 10''.

[0079] By using an external transfer pipe 40'', fluid and / or gas (particularly heated fluid and / or gas) can be introduced into the filter chamber approximately at the bottom of the filter chamber to take advantage of the natural tendency of heated and therefore less dense fluid and / or gas to rise, thereby allowing heat introduced into the chamber to be transferred upwards to the higher layers of fluid and / or gas to ensure a relatively uniform temperature gradient. Existing systems have a top-mounted inlet port that directs fluid and / or gas to the top of the filter chamber, resulting in a significant temperature gradient because cooler fluid and / or gas tends to migrate to the bottom of the chamber, while hotter fluid and / or gas tends to remain in the upper part of the chamber.

[0080] In another aspect of this disclosure, the RFID chip 36 is attached to or embedded in the bottom portion of the bottom cap 18. In an alternative embodiment, the bottom of the capsule 10 is formed as an integral part of the capsule, and the chip 36 is embedded in the capsule-forming material during manufacturing. The chip 36 is embedded so as not to be exposed to fluids or gases inside or outside the capsule 10, and ensures that the chip is not lost or improperly replaced by an unauthorized chip, for example, it is possible for the chip to be fixed to an article with adhesives or the like. The chip 36 is configured to withstand high-temperature environments and is rated for high-temperature use. Using this configuration, the chip 36 can be exposed to the high temperatures of hot water sanitary treatment.

[0081] Now for reference Figure 12-14 In another aspect of this disclosure, generally indicated as 10 v The filter capsule includes a capsule shell or capsule body 12 v 14 at the top or top cap v and bottom cap 18v The combination of the housing wall and the end cap defines a filter cartridge or filter material that is fixed therein, as described below. The end cap may be integral with the housing wall or modular. Additional variations include one end being integral with the housing wall and the other end cap being fixed to the housing wall. Any combination of integral or modular end caps / end caps is within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. The means for fixing the end cap to the housing wall are those disclosed herein for use in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0082] Entry port 24 v From the top hat 14 v It extends radially and can be configured to receive connectors such as quick-connect fittings. Outlet port 26 v From the top hat 14 v Extending radially and positioned approximately centrally at the apex. Optional exhaust port 28. v Also via ingress port 24 v and export port 26 v Occupying roughly the same plane from the top cap 14 v Radial extension. All ports may be configured to receive connectors such as quick-connects, as disclosed in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0083] The outlet pipe 58 of the limiting outlet channel 60 extends downward and connects with the outlet port 26. v The proximal end is in fluid communication. The outlet pipe 58 is configured to extend only partially downwards along the total length of the capsule chamber and is non-porous. A filter membrane 68 is located in the end of the capsule chamber opposite the end from which the port extends. The filter membrane 68 defines a filter membrane core 70 in fluid communication with the outlet channel 60. The combination of the filter membrane core 70 and the outlet channel 60 provides a continuous downstream path for fluid and / or gas to flow through the capsule shell from the bottom to the top of the capsule.

[0084] For illustrative and non-limiting purposes, for liquid handling applications, the filter material or medium in filter membrane 68 (also broadly defined as filter material or medium) may be formed from materials selected from: polyethersulfone, nylon, cellulose acetate, cellulose nitrate, polyvinylidene fluoride, polycarbonate, polyacrylonitrile, mixed esters of cellulose, glass fiber, polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and combinations thereof. Other filter materials known in the art may also be used for this purpose and are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0085] Again, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, for gas handling applications, the filter material or medium in filter membrane 68 may be formed of materials selected from: polyvinylidene fluoride, glass fiber, polyethylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, and combinations thereof. Other filter materials known in the art may also be used for this purpose and are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0086] It should also be understood that either of these two groups of materials may utilize their natural surface properties, or may be modified, wholly or partially, to suit the material for use with liquids and / or gases. For example, one of the materials in the exemplary list for gas applications may have its surface modified to suit its use with liquids. Multiple combinations of the listed materials from both groups are also possible for material selection. Moreover, materials identified as particularly advantageous for gas applications may, for example, be used for liquid applications in some cases, and vice versa.

[0087] The filter material or medium in filter membrane 68 can be formed having pores with sizes ranging from about 0.2 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. Filter membrane 68 can also be a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) or ULPA (Ultra Low Particulate Air) filter known in the art.

[0088] Although shown as a single box, multiple boxes can be secured to capsule 10 in a stacked or multi-round configuration. v At the bottom, multiple filter membrane cores 70 are joined together for a stacked configuration, or a manifold 90 is connected to and fluidly communicates with an outlet pipe 58 for a multi-round configuration. The cartridges can be made of similar filter materials (membranes and other media) with similar properties, such as pore size and porosity, or they can differ in materials and / or properties to impart selective filtration properties tailored to specific applications. The entire device can filter incoming liquids and gases using pure gravity, or pressure can be used to facilitate the filtration process.

[0089] A media boundary sheet 72 is positioned above the filter membrane to hold loose particles and media in a designated location separated from the cartridge filter and is fixed to the wall of the capsule chamber and the outlet pipe 58. The media boundary sheet 72 acts as a mechanical boundary to prevent loose media material from clogging the pores of the filter membrane 68. The media boundary sheet 72 is porous to allow liquids and / or gases processed through the filter capsule to pass through. The pore size of the media boundary sheet 72 can be from about 10 micrometers to about 500 micrometers. (Capsule chamber, top cap 14) v The combination of the radial outer wall of the media boundary sheet 72 and the outlet pipe 58 defines an annular chamber in which a loose media-based filter material 66 is placed. The filter material 66 may be selected from the following: DI resin, carbon fiber cotton granules, polymer yarn, sand or other natural or synthetic particulate media, and combinations thereof.

[0090] Capsule 10 vDesigned to operate in systems pressurized to pressures up to approximately 100 psi. For liquid and / or gas filtration, the target liquid and / or gas flows into the inlet port and into the top of capsule 10v. The fluid and / or gas permeates through the filter resin and enters the filter membrane 68 via the media boundary sheet 72. The fluid and / or gas flows through the filter membrane 68 and into the filter membrane core 70, and flows upward into the outlet channel 60 and exits from the outlet.

[0091] The capsules, caps, tubes, and ports described herein can be made of highly thermoelastic plastics such as polypropylene, polyethylene, nylon, PFA, etc. These materials are used in conventional injection molding processes to produce capsules and related components. A key consideration in material selection is the material's ability to withstand high-temperature environments, such as those encountered in sterilization equipment and autoclaves, as well as other sterilization methods such as gamma radiation.

[0092] The quick-connect couplings are configured to be compatible with couplings manufactured and sold by, by way of example and not limitation, Linktech (Ventura, CA), Colder Plastics (St. Paul, Minnesota), and John Guest (Fairfield, NJ). The check valve can be any conventional valve known in the art that ensures unidirectional flow of fluid and / or gas through the capsule. Examples include those sold by the aforementioned companies. It should also be understood that, depending on the specific application, the male / female configuration of a set of quick-connect couplings included on the capsule can be all male, all female, or a combination of both.

[0093] Although this disclosure has been described in conjunction with several embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many changes and modifications can be made without departing from the true spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to cover all such changes and modifications falling within the true spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A filter capsule device comprising: A capsule shell having a defined bottom cap that defines a solid, channelless bottom end of the capsule shell, the bottom end of the capsule shell being connected to the bottom end of the shell wall; A top cap is fixed to the top of the housing wall, wherein the combination of the housing wall, the bottom end of the capsule shell, and the top cap defines a filter chamber, the filter chamber having: a top end of the filter chamber adjacent to and partially defined by the top cap, and a bottom end of the filter chamber adjacent to and partially defined by the bottom end of the capsule shell; A filter fixed in the filter chamber, wherein an annular space is defined by the housing wall and the outer surface of the filter, wherein the annular space extends uninterruptedly along the entire axial length of the filter, wherein a bottom space is defined by the bottom end of the filter, the inner surface of the bottom end of the capsule housing, and an annular segment of the housing wall below the plane occupied by the bottom end of the filter, wherein the bottom space is in uninterrupted fluid communication with the annular space, and wherein heated fluid is allowed to enter the filter radially inward from the annular space along the axial length of the filter; Multiple ports, including an entry port extending from the top cap; A delivery tube having an elongated cylindrical wall, the elongated cylindrical wall being fluidly isolated from the annular space and the filter, being connected to and extending along the length of the housing wall, wherein a portion of the tube wall along the axial length of the delivery tube is integral with or attached to the housing wall, wherein a first fluid receiving end is fixed to and in fluid communication with the inlet port, and a second fluid delivery end is fixed adjacent to the bottom end of the capsule housing; as well as A dispersion plate having a plurality of dispersion plate holes or grooves formed near the outer annular edge of the dispersion plate, wherein the dispersion plate is fixed in the filter chamber within the bottom space, wherein the combination of the dispersion plate, the filter chamber wall, and the inner surface of the bottom end of the capsule shell defines a continuous dispersion chamber extending uninterruptedly across the entire width of the filter chamber, wherein the dispersion chamber is in fluid communication with the second fluid delivery end of the delivery pipe, and wherein the dispersion chamber is in fluid communication with the bottom space and the annular space of the filter chamber via the plurality of dispersion plate holes or grooves.

2. The filter capsule device of claim 1, wherein a heated fluid of higher heat and lower density introduced into the filter capsule enters through the inlet port, travels downward inside the delivery tube, exits the second end of the delivery tube, enters the dispersion chamber, exits the dispersion chamber through the dispersion plate holes or grooves, enters the bottom space of the filter chamber, and flows upward into the filter in the uninterrupted annular space of the filter chamber, thereby transferring heat to a lower heat and higher density fluid at a higher height in the filter chamber than the fluid flowing into the heated fluid, so as to maintain all fluids in the filter chamber at a uniform temperature over the entire axial length of the filter chamber.

3. The filter capsule device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of ports occupy the same plane and extend from the top cap in a consistent direction.

4. The filter capsule device of claim 3, wherein the plane is selected from one of the group consisting of: orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing, parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing, and at + / -45° to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing.

5. The filter capsule device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of ports has a quick-connect connector fixed to an end of the at least one port.

6. The filter capsule device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of ports has a check valve fixed to the at least one port.

7. The filter capsule device according to claim 1, wherein the delivery tube is fixed to the inner wall of the capsule shell.

8. The filter capsule device according to claim 1, wherein the delivery tube is fixed to the outer wall of the capsule shell.

9. The filter capsule device of claim 1, further comprising an RFID chip fixed to the housing.

10. The filter capsule device of claim 1, further comprising an RFID chip embedded in the material forming the housing.

11. The filter capsule device of claim 1, wherein the top cap has a portion defining a protruding chamber, wherein the protruding chamber is in fluid communication with one of the plurality of ports.

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