Fluid filter, housing, and valves

Abstract

A valve comprising a valve body having a flow cavity and a valve piston is disclosed. The valve body may include a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity. The valve piston may have a centerline offset from a centerline of the flow cavity. The valve piston may also include a first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object and to provide a flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with the mating object. A filtration device comprising a primary filter, a first valve, a second valve, and a secondary filter is also disclosed.

Description

FLUID FILTER, HOUSING, AND VALVESCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPUCATION

[0001] This application is related to and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63 / 517,785, filed on August 4, 2023, the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUNDTechnical Field

[0002] Embodiments discussed herein generally relate to systems and methods for filtering a fluid, housings for such filtration. Embodiments described herein also generally relate to valves.Description of Related Art

[0003] Filtration is generally a process that includes a separation of one substance from another. Mechanical filtration separates a substance, such as suspended solids or molecules, from another substance, such as a fluid (e.g., liquid or gas). Chemical filtration separates one substance from another by chemical means, such as chemical bonding or precipitation. Mechanical filtering of solids (e.g., particles) from fluid can include passing the fluid containing the solids through or otherwise interacting with a filter media, such as a mesh or membrane, which collects the solids being filtered out while allowing the filtered fluid to pass through. In dead-end filtration, the flow of the fluid to be filtered is generally perpendicular to the filter media, whereas in cross-flow filtration, the flow of the fluid to be filtered is substantially parallel to the filter media. Over time, the filter media in both of these filtration methods tends to clog with filtered solids, reducing the effectiveness of the filter, increasing the pressure drop across the filter media, and requiring more energyfor filtering. Eventually filtration will cease to be effective, especially in dead-end filtration because the filtered solids block the flow of the fluid.

[0004] Vortical cross-flow filtration is a method involving aspects of both dead-end and cross-flow filtration, such as that described in Sanderson et al., “Fish mouths as engineering structures for vortical cross-step filtration,” NatureCommunications (2016) and Brooks et al., “Physical modeling of vortical cross-step flow in the American paddlefish, Polyodon spathula," PLOS One (2018). However, current vortical cross-flow filtration devices still face significant performance limitations, including residue build-up, lack of a cleaning method of the filter media and device, lack of residue collection method, inability to effectively filter solids and microsolids at high flow rates or high flow speeds of the fluid, and inability to consistently and robustly capture a broad range of particles, especially small particles. Thus, there remains a need for improvements in systems and methods using vortical cross-flow filtration.

[0005] Housing design and valves are often limiting factors in fluid filtration designs. For example, fluid filters often require the user to contact the fluid when cleaning or changing a filter because the system design requires the filter to be in contact with the fluid or because removal of the filter causes the fluid to seep into the filtration chamber. Current valve designs are also complicated and may cause leakage when a fluid filter canister is removed from the fluid source in addition to being susceptible to clogging by contaminants.

[0006] The disclosed systems and methods for filtering a fluid, housings for such filtration, and valves used in such system are directed to overcoming one or more of the problems set forth above and / or other problems of the prior art.SUMMARY

[0007] Embodiments of the present disclosure may include technological improvements to one or more technical problems in prior filtration systems and / or valve designs. Various embodiments described herein may provide systems and methods for improved, more efficient, or more effective filtering of solids from fluids.Various embodiments described herein may provide improved systems and methods for valve design and valve operations.

[0008] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a valve comprising a valve body having a flow cavity and a valve piston. In some embodiments, the valve body may have a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity. The valve piston may include a first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object and to provide a flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with the mating object.

[0009] In some embodiments, the valve piston has a centerline that is offset from the centerline of the flow cavity.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet. In some embodiments, the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet. In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a magnetic force-generating device.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

[0013] In some embodiments, the valve piston is off-center to createunequal sizes of a flowpath through the valve.

[0014] In some embodiments, a first distance di between valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance dz between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance dz. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater than a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance dz.

[0015] In some embodiments, the valve may further include a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object. In some embodiments, the valve body is configured such that the second repulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening. In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

[0017] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the valve mayfurther include at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

[0018] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the at least one support may be a support rod. In some embodiments, the support rod may be enclosed within a membrane. In some embodiments the support may comprise a plurality of supports. In some embodiments the support may comprise a plurality of support rods. In some embodiments the support extends along a direction of movement of the valve piston from the open position to the closed position.

[0019] In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured to create a flow path between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the centerline of the first opening is offset from the centerline of the second opening. In some embodiments, the valve piston may have a centerline substantially inline with the centerline of the second opening and offset from the centerline of the first opening.

[0020] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a valve comprising a valve body comprising a flow cavity and a valve piston having a centerline offset from a centerline of the flow cavity.

[0021] In some embodiments, the valve piston may include a first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object and to provide a flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with the mating object.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises afirst magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet. In some embodiments, the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet. In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a magnetic force-generating device.

[0023] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

[0024] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

[0025] In some embodiments, a first distance di between valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance d2 between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater than a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance dz

[0026] In some embodiments, the valve may further include a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object. In some embodiments, the valve body is configured such that the second repulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening. In some embodiments, the first repulsiveforce device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

[0028] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

[0029] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

[0030] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a valve comprising a valve body comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity creating a flow path between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the centerline of the first opening is offset from the centerline of the second opening and a valve piston having a centerline substantially inline with the centerline of the second opening and offset from the centerline of the first opening.

[0031] In some embodiments, the valve piston may include a first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object and to provide a flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with the mating object.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises afirst magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet. In some embodiments, the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet. In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a magnetic force-generating device.

[0033] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

[0035] In some embodiments, a first distance di between valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance d2 between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2. In some embodiments, the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater than a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance dz

[0036] In some embodiments, the valve may further include a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object. In some embodiments, the valve body is configured such that the second repulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening. In some embodiments, the first repulsiveforce device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

[0037] In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

[0038] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position. In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

[0039] In some embodiments, the valve may further include at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

[0040] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a valve comprising a valve body comprising a flow cavity and a valve piston having a centerline offset from a centerline of the flow cavity.

[0041] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a valve comprising a valve body comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity creating a flow path between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the centerline of the first opening is offset from the centerline of the second opening. The valve piston may have a centerline substantially inline with the centerline of the second opening and offset from the centerline of the first opening.

[0042] Consistent with some disclosed embodiments, there is disclosed a filtration device comprising a primary filter, a first valve, a second valve, and a secondary filter. In some embodiments, the first valve may include a first openingthat is configured to receive a fluid comprising solids filtered by the primary filter and a second opening that is configured to discharge the fluid from the first valve to a second valve. In some embodiments, the second valve may comprise a first opening and a second opening, wherein the fluid discharged from the first valve enters the second opening of the second valve. In some embodiments, the first opening of the second valve is configured to discharge the fluid to the secondary filter.

[0043] In some embodiments, the primary filter may be configured to discharge a first filtered fluid flow that has passed through a filter media of the primary filter, and the fluid comprising solids filtered by the primary filter have not passed through the filter media of the primary filter.

[0044] In some embodiments, the secondary filter may be configured to collect solids from the fluid and to discharge a second filtered fluid flow that has passed through a filter media of the secondary filter.

[0045] In some embodiments, the first valve many have a flow cavity and a first valve piston between the first opening of the first valve and the second opening of the first valve.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first valve may comprise a first valve piston having a first repulsive force device and the second valve comprises a second valve piston having a second repulsive force device. In some embodiments, the first repulsive force device may be configured to seal the second opening of the first valve when the first valve is not coupled to the second valve and to provide a first flow path between the first opening and the second opening when the first valve is coupled to the second valve. In some embodiments, the second repulsive force device may be configured to seal the second opening of the second valve when the second valve is not coupled to the first valve and to provide a second flow pathbetween the first opening and the second opening when the second valve is coupled to the first valve.

[0047] In some embodiments, the first repulsive device may comprise a first magnet of the first valve opposed to a second magnet of the first valve. In some embodiments, the second repulsive device may comprise a first magnet of the second valve opposed to a second magnet of the second valve.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first valve piston may be configured to contact the second valve piston when the first valve is coupled to the second valve to provide the first flow path and the second flow path such that fluid in the first flow path flows into the second flow path.

[0049] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the subject matter that may be claimed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0050] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.

[0051] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary filtration device, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary configuration of an exemplary filtration device, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0053] FIGS. 3A-3B show exemplary valve configurations, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0054] FIGS. 4A-4B show exemplary valve configurations, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0055] FIGS. 5A-5B show exemplary valve configurations, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 6 shows partial cross-sections of the exemplary filtration device of FIG. 1, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 7 shows a magnified view of valves 122 and 124 of the exemplary filtration device of FIG. 1 , consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view along line A-A of FIG. 3B.

[0059] FIG. 9 shows an exemplary operation of a valve, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary valve, consistent with some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0061] The Figures provided herein are exemplary and not intended to be limiting of the invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In some instances, the same reference numbers may be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. The implementations set forth in the following description are exemplary embodiments and do not represent all implementations consistent with the present disclosure. While some examples and features of disclosed principles are described herein, modifications, adaptations, and other implementations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that the following detailed description be considered as merely examples of systems, apparatuses, and methods consistent with aspects of this disclosure.

[0063] Some embodiments may provide improvements to prior filtration systems and methods, such as improved filtration performance, higher collection efficiency of suspended solids, easier ability to maintain or clean the filter, improved cleanliness of filter media, improved accessibility for user intervention (e.g., emptying a collection unit or cleaning the filter), improved packaging, reduced pressure drop across filter media, high efficiency filtration of small particles (e.g., microparticles and microplastics), efficient filtration at high flow rates or high flow speeds, and reduced tendency for clogging, contamination, fouling, etc. Some embodiments may provide improvements to valve technology and design, such as improved design of check valves, improved design of self-sealing valves, improved fluid flow through the valves that is resistant to clogging from suspended debris in the fluid flow.

[0064] Some embodiments may achieve a filter able to collect a relatively large amount of solids over a broad range of filtered solid sizes in a collection unit, such as a disposable collection unit, while the primary filter media remains relatively clean after extended use. In some embodiments, the filter achieves high filtration efficiency at high flow rates and high flow speeds. In some embodiments, a filter may filter solids or microsolids from a fluid, such as air or water. In some embodiments, a filter may filter microplastics from water, such as, for example, from wastewater, drinking water, or laundry water.

[0065] The problem of particulate waste is growing. In particular, it is becoming increasingly recognized that microsolid waste, such as microplastics, is a significant problem and is becoming a health hazard. “Microplastics, ” for example, are generally considered to be any synthetic particles having regular or irregular shapes with a size less than 5 millimeters. Microplastics may come from both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources include textile abrasion (e.g.,synthetic fibers in clothing that break down in washing machines and are discharged into the environment via laundry wastewater) and tire abrasion (e.g., tire wear from normal driving causing rubber to be constantly worn down and left on road surfaces that is washed away into the environment). Secondary sources include the breakdown of larger pieces of plastic (e.g., plastic bottles) breaking down into smaller pieces. Microplastics then make their way into the water supply for human consumption. Although some embodiments of the present description may be described in terms of microplastics to aid in explanation, the present disclosure is not limited to filtering microplastics, but can be used to filter other solids, particles, microsolids, microparticles, microfibers, particulate matter, or other filterable substances from a fluid.

[0066] Studies have shown that the average person may consume about five grams of microplastic, which is equivalent in weight to a plastic credit card, per week. It is believed that about 35% of this plastic comes from textile abrasion, which is considered to be the single largest point source of microplastics released into the environment. Human ingestion of microplastics is associated with and linked to autism, early puberty, malignancies, such as colon and breast cancer, and heart problems.

[0067] Besides the risks to human health, microplastic and other plastic waste impacts the environment and climate, as well. Microplastics and other plastic particles may interfere with the natural biological pumping action of the world’s oceans, which is one of the earth's largest carbon sinks (sequestering over 40% of the carbon emitted since World War II). The continued build-up of microplastics in the environment may interfere with this and others of the earth’s natural processes, such as radiative forcing. For example, microplastics in the atmosphere maycontribute to the greenhouse effect by reflecting or absorbing heat released from the earth’s surface, rather than allowing it to escape.

[0068] Filtering of microplastics suspended in flowing fluid (e.g., water or air) has been challenging due to the size of the particles and the flow rate of fluid, especially at high flow rates or high flow speeds. Prior filtration methods, for example dead-end and conventional cross-flow filter systems using filter media, are not effective at high flow rates, high flow speeds, or at high concentrations of microplastics. Moreover, such filters are difficult to clean and cannot effectively select for smaller sizes of microplastics or other particles. In many applications, such as, for example, laundry machines, the fluid discharge has a high flow rate and high flow speed to discharge a relatively large amount of fluid in a short time, resulting in both high-velocity and high-pressure discharge. Dead-end filtration is not effective in such situations because flow restriction caused by the filter media and the build-up of filtered residue at the filter media create a pressure drop across the filter media and back pressure, resulting in low flow through the filter, and eventual blockage, which can lead to catastrophic failure of the discharge line. Such failure may, result in pump failure, inability to drain water from the washing machine, and leaks from the washing machine. At sufficiently high flow rates, fine filter medias can impede the filtration flow causing back pressure through the system which may blow out hoses or pipes, leading to leaks, catastrophic hose or pipe failure, or damage to various components of the system. Conventional cross-flow filtration methods are also ineffective because residue collects on the filter media, the filters are not easily cleaned, and they are relatively low efficiency such that much of the microplastic content is still discharged. Prior cross-flow filtration filters are also ineffective at high flow rates and high flow speeds because they cannot efficiently filter particles fromthe fluid.

[0069] Conventional filters also use a single-stage filter with only one filtration media that, when dogged by the filtered material, may impede the flow of fluid through the filter. Some embodiments may provide improved filtration using a primary filter and a secondary filter. In some embodiments, the primary filter may comprise a cross-flow filtration filter where the discharged fluid containing filtered partides and debris from the primary filter proceed to the secondary filter for colledion. The secondary filter may be a cross-flow filter or dead-end filter. In some embodiments, the secondary filter may ad as a collection unit. In some embodiments, the secondary filter may be a disposable filter.

[0070] An exemplary filtration system of this disdosure may address such problems involved in filtering microplastics from a flowing fluid without producing an excessive pressure drop and filter dogging, thus improving filtration performance.The exemplary filtration system is also more effedive at filtering partides, such as microplastics, at high flow rates and high flow speeds, such as flow speeds greater than 50 cm / sec. The primary filter may indude a filtration region where suspended solids (e.g., partides) are separated from fluid, such as by cross-flow filtrations between adjacent revolutions of the tapered-coil. While the following description refers to the vortical filer as comprising a tapered coil, and one further having a helical configuration, this is an embodiment of the disdosure. This disdosure should not be limited to the helical or tapered-helical configuration as the primary filter.However, with resped to this configuration, the flow of partides may indude a vortical flow between adjacent revolutions of a tapered-helical coil. The primary filter may be configured to advance the flow of partides along a flow path between adjacent revolutions of the tapered-helical coil toward a collection region where thepartides can be captured and disposed of.

[0071] FIG. 1 shows an exemplary filtration device 100. Filtration device100 indudes a fluid inlet 102 to receive inlet flow 103 and a fluid outlet 104 to discharge filtered fluid (filtrate) 105. Filtration device 100 includes a primary housing portion 106 and a canister portion 108. In some embodiments, canister portion 108 may be detachable from primary housing portion 106, such as shown in FIG. 2.

[0072] In some embodiments, filtration device 100 may indude a primary filter 112 and a secondary filter 114. Filtered fluids from primary filter 112 and secondary filter 114 may be discharged via fluid discharge line 117 through fluid outlet 104. Filtered partides and debris may be collected for disposal in secondary filter 114. Primary filter 112 may be contained in chamber 101. In some embodiments, during operation, chamber 101 may contain a wall, partition, or divider(not shown) that causes the fluid level in chamber 101 to completely submerge primary filter 112 before filtered fluid is permitted to exit chamber 101 to primary filtered fluid line 120 (shown in dashed lines) to discharge line 117. In such embodiments, the submersion of primary filter 112 may improve or better facilitate filtration, such as when primary filter 112 comprises a vortical or helical filter. In some embodiments, the submersion of primary filter 112 ensures that filtered residues do not dry on the filter media (e.g., a mesh or membrane) that surrounds primary filter112. Because the residue may not be allowed to dry on the primary filter 112, this may facilitate prolonged use of the filter because remaining residue, by remaining wet, can be removed or partially removed from the filter during subsequent use. In some embodiments, primary filter 112 may be removable from the filtration device, such as by a handle so that it can be deaned without having to dean it in the submersion fluid.

[0073] In some embodiments, the primary filter 112 may comprise or function as a separation unit and the secondary filter 114 may comprise or function as a collection unit. When primary filter 112 acts as a separation unit, the filtered fluid may pass through a mesh or membrane (such as shown by flow arrows 113 ofFIG. 1) as separated first filtered fluid 123, which may proceed to a discharge area, such as fluid discharge line 117. Fluid containing the filtered particles, such as discharge fluid 121, may pass out of primary filter 112 towards secondary filter 114.When secondary filter 114 acts as a collection unit, the discharge fluid 121 received by secondary filter 114 is filtered such that filtered particles remain in secondary filter112 for removal or disposal (e.g., forming a filtered residue or cake) and the filtered fluid may be discharged as second filtered fluid 125.

[0074] In some embodiments, filtration device 100 may include a bypass line 110. Bypass line 110, as shown in FIG. 1 , is configured to divert fluid flow from fluid inlet 102 around primary filter 112 to fluid outlet 104. In some embodiments, bypass line 110 may be configured to divert fluid flow from fluid inlet 102 around secondary filter 114 to fluid outlet 104. In some embodiments, a bypass line (not shown) may be placed between primary filter 112 and secondary filter 114 to divert fluid containing filtered particles exiting primary filter 112 to fluid discharge line 117 to discharge from fluid outlet 104.

[0075] In some embodiments, primary filter 112 may comprise a vortical filter, such as described in International PCT Application No. PCT / US2022 / 082570, assigned to the present applicant, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0076] Fluid to be filtered enters primary filter 112 as fluid flow 119 from fluid inlet 102. Primary filter 112 filters particles from the fluid using filtration media115, such as by vortical cross-flow filtration 113, and the first filtered fluid 123 passes via a primary filtered fluid line 120 (shown in dashed lines) to fluid discharge line 117 to be discharged through fluid outlet 104.

[0077] The fluid passing through primary filter 112 that contains filtered particle comprises a discharge fluid 121 that passes through first valve 116 and second valve 118, such as via first valve-flow path 127 (dashed lines in valve-flow paths 127 and 129 show the flow path behind another object, such as behind protrusion 324), to secondary filter 114. Secondary filter 114 captures and collects particles from discharge fluid 121 and discharges second filtered fluid 125 through third valve 122 and fourth valve 124, such as via second valve-flow path 129, to fluid discharge line 117 to be discharged through fluid outlet 104.

[0078] Exemplary embodiments of the operation of first valve 116, second valve 118, third valve 122, and fourth valve 124 are described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 3A-3B, 4A-4B, 5A-5B, and 8-10.

[0079] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, canister portion 108 may be removable or detachable from primary housing portion 106. Canister portion 108 may, for example, slide out of primary housing portion 106 as shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2. In other embodiments, canister portion 108 may tilt or rotate away from primary housing portion 106. The detachability or removability of canister portion 108 may facilitate cleaning, removal, or replacement of secondary filter 114.

[0080] When canister portion 108 is detached or removed, there may be fluid remaining in the system, such as in chamber 101 housing primary filter 112 or fluid discharge line 117. In such cases, it is desirable for first valve 116, second valve118, third valve 122, and / or fourth valve 124 to close via a watertight or fluid-tight(e.g., watertight) seal to prevent leakage of the fluid.

[0081] FIGS. 3A and 3B show exemplary first valve 116 in a dosed position (FIG. 3A) corresponding to FIG. 2 when canister portion 108 has been detached or removed and an open position (FIG. 3B) corresponding to FIG. 1, in which fluid can flow through first valve-flow path 127. Although first valve 116 is described in detail in FIGS. 3A and 3B, it is understood that second valve 118, third valve 122, and fourth valve 124 may operate similarly to first valve 116 and are thereby similarly described.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 3A, valve 116 indudes valve body 301 comprising a first opening 302 and second opening 304. Second opening 304 indudes valve stop 306. Valve body 301 also indudes flow cavity 310 between first opening 302 and second opening 304. Flow cavity 310 contains valve piston 308 that opens and doses to permit or prevent fluid flow through flow cavity 310 of valve body 301.

[0083] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3A and 3B, valve piston 308 indudes seal 312 attached to the piston body. When in the dosed position, such as shown inFIG. 3A, seal 312 of valve piston 308 provides a fluid-tight seal, such as a watertight seal, through contact between seal 312 and valve stop 306. Seal 312 may comprise any material suitable to form the fluid-tight (e.g., watertight) seal against valve stop306 to prevent fluid flowing from flow cavity 310 out of second opening 304.Exemplary materials for seal 312 indude elastomeric materials. For example, in some embodiments, seal 312 may comprise a silicone seal, rubber seal, compressible material, or foam. Seal 312 may be attached or coupled to the piston body via adhesive, snap fit, or other mechanical or chemical fastening means. In some embodiments, the piston body and seal 312 may comprise a single piece of material, rather than distinct materials. In some embodiments, seal 312 may comprise a portion of valve stop 306, rather than valve piston 308. In someembodiments, both valve piston 308 and valve stop 306 may comprise a sealing material.

[0084] Valve piston 308 may further comprise a first magnet 314. A second magnet 316 is positioned to provide a repulsive force 318 against first magnet 314.For example, the North pole of first magnet 314 may face the North pole of second magnet 316 such that second magnet 316 provides a repulsive force 318 against first magnet 314 (and vice versa). It is also understood that the South pole of second magnet 316 may face the South pole of first magnet 314 to provide a similar repulsive force. The strength of first magnet 314 and second magnet 316 may be selected such that, when canister portion 108 is detached from primary housing portion 106, the repulsive force 318 actuates valve piston 308 to cause separation between second magnet 316 and valve piston 308 such that valve piston 308 presses against valve stop 306, causing seal 312 to create a fluid-tight (e.g., watertight) seal against valve stop 306. The repulsive force 318 then holds valve piston 308 in place until canister portion 108 is reattached to primary housing portion106. In some embodiments, valve piston 308 may be configured such that the front portion 320 of valve piston 308 protrudes past second opening 304.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 3A, second magnet 316 may be embedded into support structure 322. In other embodiments, second magnet 316 may be fixedly attached to support structure 322, such as via an adhesive, clamp mechanism, locking mechanism, or retention structure. In some embodiments, second magnet316 may be molded into support structure 322. In some embodiments, support structure 322 may comprise a covering over the surface of second magnet 316 to prevent second magnet 316 from being detached from support structure 322. In some embodiments, support structure 322 may be integrated into valve body 301. Insome embodiments, support structure 322 may be attached to valve body 301. In some embodiments, support structure 322 may be part of valve body 301.

[0086] In some embodiments, second magnet 316 may protrude from the front edge of support structure 322. In some embodiments, second magnet 316 may be flush with the front edge of support structure 322. In some embodiments, second magnet 316 may be recessed from the front edge of support structure 322.

[0087] FIG. 3B shows exemplary valve 116 in the open position. When canister portion 108 is attached to primary housing portion 106, valve piston 308, for example front portion 320, comes into contact with the corresponding valve 118 of the canister portion 108, such as valve piston 308’ and / or front portion 320’ of corresponding valve 118. The valve piston 308’ and / or front portion 320’ forms a mating object to valve piston 308 and / or front portion 320, such that it causes the valve to open to permit fluid to flow from the first opening to the second opening (or from the second opening to the first opening) through flow cavity 310. As canister portion 108 is attached to primary housing portion 106, the contact between valve piston 308 and valve piston 308’ causes valve piston 308 to move into flow cavity310 towards second magnet 316. As valve piston 308 moves towards second magnet 316, first valve-flow path 127 opens between valve piston 308 and valve stop 306, thereby permitting fluid entering first opening 302, such as entering fluid flow 330 (e.g., discharge fluid 121 for first valve 116), to flow through flow cavity 310 via valve flow path 127 and exit via second opening 304. The fluid flow 127 then enters the corresponding second opening 304 of the opposing valve, for example of second valve 118, and passes through the flow cavity of the opposing valve and exits from the first opening 302 of the opposing valve. For example, first fluid flow127 may pass through second valve 118 and exit to second filter 114. It will beunderstood that first opening 302 and second opening 304 may function as either an inlet or an outlet, depending on the orientation and position of the valve within the fluid flow path.

[0088] According to some embodiments, such as shown in FIGS. 3A and3B, valve piston 308 may further comprise one or more protrusions 324. Protrusions324 may be configured to position valve piston 308 in flow cavity 310 to maintain the alignment of first magnet 314 and second magnet 316. To better facilitate placement and movement of valve piston 308, flow cavity may comprise grooves or tracks 326 that receive protrusions 324 and position valve piston 308 in flow cavity 310.Grooves or tracks 326 may also guide valve piston 308 as it opens and closes and also hold valve piston 308 in place in flow cavity 310 when fluid is flowing through the valve. In some embodiments, protrusions 324 may comprise fins, vanes, or guideposts.

[0089] In some embodiments, the center of valve piston 308 may be off- center from the center of flow cavity 310, such as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, a centerline of valve piston 308 is offset from a centerline of flow cavity 310 because the first distance di between valve piston 308 and the valve body 301 in flow cavity 310 is greater than the second distance d2 between the opposite side of valve piston 308 and valve body 301 in flow cavity 310. Similarly, first opening 302 that receives entering fluid flow 330 may be off-center from second opening 304. In some embodiments, while valve piston 308 is centered on second opening 304, it is offset from first opening 302. Such offset has several advantages over prior valve designs. For example, the offset allows second magnet 316 to be affixed or coupled to support structure 322, which prevents the need to suspend second magnet 316 in the flow cavity 310 or impede the enteringfluid flow 330 (e.g., discharge fluid flow 121 for first valve 116) or flow path through the valve (e.g., valve-flow path 127, 129). For example, by offsetting valve piston308, second magnet 316 may be affixed outside of the flow path 127, such as affixed to support structure 322. The elimination of a support structure to suspend second magnet 316 in valve cavity 310 results in less clogging or fouling of the valve cavity because debris and particles can more readily flow through valve cavity 310 without obstruction. For example, when filtration system 100 is used to process discharge water from a washing machine, the fluid flow may comprise long fibers, soil, hair, and other objects that could become entrapped on supports if magnet 316 were suspended in valve cavity 310 that would clog valve cavity 310 over time.

[0090] The offset of valve piston 308 in valve cavity 310 may also improve fluid flow 127 through the valve. For example, entering fluid flow 330 may enter valve cavity 330 at a location where the first distance di from valve piston 308 to the valve body 301 in flow cavity 310 is greater than the second distance d2 from the opposite side of valve piston 308 to valve body 301 in flow cavity 310, such as shown in FIGS.5A and 5B. That is, di is greater than d2. FIGS. 5A and 5B are generalized and do not show the support structures shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, and 4B to better facilitate understanding of the relative distances for the flow path shown. The more open flow path di can better accommodate high-flow and / or high-velocity fluid streams, such as washing machine discharge streams.

[0091] FIGS. 6 and 7 show additional cross-sectional views of the filtration device 100 to illustrate the operation of valves 116, 118, 122, 124 when canister portion 108 is attached to primary housing portion 106.

[0092] As shown in FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary valve 116 along line A-A of FIG. 3B. It is understood that valves 118, 122, and 124may have similar cross sections. FIG. 8 shows how protrusions 324, such as fins or vanes, fit into grooves or tracks 326 to facilitate movement of valve piston 308 in flow cavity 310. FIG. 8 also shows how valve piston 308 is offset from the center of flow cavity 310 such that first distance di between valve piston 308 to and valve body 301 in flow cavity 310 is greater than the second distance d2 between the opposite side of valve piston 308 and valve body 301 in flow cavity 310. Because FIG. 8 shows the cross-section along line A-A, first opening 302 can be seen on the lower portion of the cross-section of flow cavity 310 showing the offset of flow cavity 310 from the first opening 302.

[0093] In preferred embodiments, magnets 314 and 316 provide the repulsive force because they are non-contact forces and therefore do not obstruct the flow path through flow cavity 310. Such non-contact forces may also be desirable in embodiments where the fluid being filtered contains debris that is relatively large compared to the flow diameters, such as hair, fabric fibers, and paper in washing machine discharges, that can relatively easily clog the valve when obstructions are present. This may be desirable for small applications where the average flow path width di is less than about 1 inch, such as, for example 1 inch, 0.9 inches, 0.85 inches, 0.8 inches, 0.75 inches, 0.7 inches, 0.66 inches, 0.6 inches, 0.55 inches, 0.5 inches, 0.4 inches, 0.33 inches, 0.25 inches, or 0.2 inches. This may also be desirable in applications where the average flow path width di is in a range (inclusive of the end points) from 0.15 inches to 1 inch, from 0.15 inches to 0.66 inches, from0.15 inches to 0.6 inches, from 0.15 inches to 0.5 inches, from 0.15 inches to 0.4 inches, from 0.15 inches to 0.33 inches, from 0.2 inches to 0.8 inches, from 0.2 inches to 0.75 inches, from 0.2 inches to 0.6 inches, from 0.2 inches to 0.5 inches, from 0.2 inches to 0.4 inches, from 0.25 inches to 1 inch, from 0.25 inches to 0.8inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.75 inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.66 inches, from 0.25 inches to 0.55 inches, from 0.33 inches to 1 inch, from 0.33 inches to 0.8 inches, from 0.33 inches to 0.75 inches, from 0.33 inches to 0.66 inches, from 0.4 inches to1 inch, from 0.4 inches to 0.8 inches, from 0.4 inches to 0.75 inches, from 0.4 inches to 0.66 inches, from 0.5 inches to 1 inch, from 0.5 inches to 0.8 inches, from 0.5 inches to 0.75 inches, or from 0.6 inches to 1 inch, from 0.6 inches to 0.75 inches, or from 0.7 inches to 1 inch.

[0094] In other embodiments, the average flow path width di may be larger than 1 inch, but less than about 2 inches, such as, for example 2 inches, 1.8 inches,1.75 inches, 1.7 inches, 1.66 inches, 1.6 inches, 1.55 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.45 inches, 1.4 inches, 1.33 inches, 1.3 inches, 1.25 inches, 1.2 inches, or 1.1 inches.This may also be desirable in applications where the average flow path width di is in a range (inclusive of the end points) from 1 inch to 2 inches, from 1 inch to 1.8 inches, from 1 inch to 1.75 inches, from 1 inch to 1.7 inches, from 1 inch to 1.66 inches, from 1 inch to 1.55 inches, from 1 inch to 1.5 inches, from 1 inch to 1.4 inches, from 1 inch to 1.33 inches, from 1 inch to 3 inches, from 1 inch to 1.25 inches, from 1 inch to 1.2 inches, 1.2 inches to 2 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.8 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.7 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.66 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.55 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.5 inches, from1.2 inches to 1.4 inches, from 1.2 inches to 1.33 inches, or from 1.2 inches to 3 inches, from 1 inch to 1.25 inches, from 1 inch to 1.2 inches, from 1.25 inches to1.75 inches, 1.33 inches to 2 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.8 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.7 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.66 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.55 inches, from 1.33 inches to 1.5 inches, 1.4 inches to2 inches, from 1.4 inches to 1.8 inches, from 1.4 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.4inches to 1.7 inches, from 1.4 inches to 1.66 inches, 1.5 inches to 2 inches, from 1.5 inches to 1.8 inches, from 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.5 inches to 1.7 inches, from 1.5 inches to 1.66 inches, 1.66 inches to 2 inches, from 1.66 inches to 1.8 inches, from 1.66 inches to 1.75 inches, from 1.7 inches to 2 inches, from 1.7 inches to 1.8 inches, or from 1.8 inches to 2 inches.

[0095] Although certain preferred embodiments use magnetic repulsive forces, such as described above, it is contemplated that repulsive force 318 may be provided by other means, such as a spring, balloon, elastic member, or other means to generate a repulsive force between valve piston 308 and support structure 322.

[0096] Another advantage of such valve design is that, when canister portion 108 is removed, if the system creates flow into fluid inlet 102, the pressure against valve piston 308 of valves 116 and 124 will further facilitate sealing against leakage through the valves.

[0097] FIGS. 4A and 4B show an another embodiment of valves 116, 118,122, 124. In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the exemplary valve does not include protrusions 324.Instead, support or rod 332 provides a support between support structure 322 and valve piston 308. Valve piston 308 may slide along support or rod 332 based on the repulsive force 318 between first manet 314 and second magnet 316. For example, when canister portion 108 is removed or detached, repulsive force 318 causes valve piston 308 to move towards second opening 304 and form a fluid-tight (e.g., watertight) seal with second opening 304, for example, with seal 312. As in FIG. 3B, when canister portion 108 is attached to primary housing portion 106, valve piston308, for example front portion 320 comes into contact with the corresponding valve118 (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 4B) of the canister portion 108, such as valve piston 308’ and / or front portion 320’ of corresponding valve 118, forcing valve piston308 open to facilitate fluid flow path 127, such as described above. Cavity 335 of valve piston 308 allows support or rod 332 to enter the central body of valve piston308 to facilitate movement of valve piston 308 between the open and closed positions.

[0098] FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of valves 116, 118, 122, 124, shown in cross-section. In FIG. 10, the exemplary valve includes support rod 332 may be surrounded by membrane 340. Valve piston 308 may include guide 333 along which may enclose support rod 332 as valve piston 308 moves away from second opening 304. Membrane 340 may be configured to enclose support rod 332 from the surrounding fluid, which mitigates accumulation of particles and debris on support rod 332 and improves overall fluid flow through the valve. As also shown inFIG. 10, the valve may have a sloped surface 342 between second opening 304 and first opening 302. Optionally, as shown in FIG. 10, sloped surface 342 may meet a surface 344 of valve body 301 at an angle 6.

[0099] In some embodiments, membrane 340 may comprise a flexible membrane, such as a polymeric or elastomeric membrane. In some embodiments, membrane 340 may comprise a rubber or silicone membrane.

[0100] In some embodiments, the angle 6 may be in a range from 120 to170 degrees, for example, from 130 to 170 degrees, from 140 to 170 degrees, from150 to 170 degrees, from 130 to 160 degrees, from 140 to 160 degrees, from 150 to160 degrees, from 130 to 150 degrees, from 130 to 140 degrees, or from 140 to 150 degrees. For example, the angle 6 may be about 130 degrees, about 135 degrees, about 140 degrees, about 145 degrees, about 150 degrees, about 155 degrees, about 160 degrees, about 165 degrees, or about 170 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the angle 6 may be in a range from 150 to 160 degrees, such as about155 degrees.

[0101] The use of a sloped surface 342 in FIG. 10, as compared to the relatively parallel surface in FIGS. 4A and 4B, results in a diverging first distance di that allows for debris and particles to more easily travel through valve body 301 and mitigates the risk of clogging or debris buildup. It also improves fluid flow by reducing flow impedance between first opening 302 and second opening 304 (and between second opening 304 and first opening 302 in the other direction. Sloped surface 342 also improves fluid flow by increasing the cross-sectional area for fluid flow of the inner fluid flow chamber 310 of valve body 301 between second opening 304 and first opening 302. Sloped surface 342 may also improve fluid flow by reducing sharp or steep transitions, such as those shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, of the inner fluid flow chamber 310 of valve body 301 between second opening 304 and first opening 302.It is noted that sloped surface 342 has a similar effect for fluid flowing from first opening 302 to second opening 304 because of the greater cross-sectional area and mitigating the buildup of debris.

[0102] Although FIGS. 4A-4B and 10 show a preferred embodiment having one support or rod 332, it is contemplated that more than one support or rod 332 may be used. When valve piston 308 is offset in flow cavity 310, the introduction of support or rod 332 reduces or mitigates clogging or fouling of the valve because it is substantially removed from flow path 127 through the valve. In some embodiments, membrane 340 may enclose a plurality of supports or rods 332.

[0103] Because repulsive force 318 increases in strength when the valve is in the open position, there is no risk of the valve accidentally closing during fluid flow because if valve piston 308 drifts towards second opening 304, the opposing force on the opposing valve piston 308’ increases to prevent enough motion to close thevalve.

[0104] Although FIGS. 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, and 10 are described with respect to fluid flow 330 entering at first opening 302 and exiting at second opening 304, it will be understood that the reciprocal valve (e.g., second valve 118, fourth valve 124) will have fluid flow entering the valve at second opening 304 and exiting the valve at first opening 302.

[0105] Although the offset of valve piston 308 is shown above flow path127, it is contemplated that the offset may in in any direction, depending on the design of the system, for example, above, below, left, right or diagonal from flow path127.

[0106] Although FIGS. 1, 2, 3B, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6, and 7 show corresponding valve piston 308’ as causing valve piston 308 to be configured in the open position by the connection of two valves (e.g., first valve 116 to second valve 118 or third valve 122 to fourth valve 124), it is understood that corresponding valve piston 308’ may be replaced by a mating object, rather than a corresponding valve piston. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when exemplary valve 116’ (which is substantially similar in operation to valve 116) is connected to, for example, a flow object 360, such as a pipe, conduit, or line, flow object 360 may include a mating object 362 that performs the same operation to cause valve 116’ to actuate to the open position, thereby permitting fluid to flow along flow path 127’ from first opening 302 through flow cavity 310 and out second opening 304 into flow object 360. It is understood that a mating object need not physically couple to valve piston 308, but it is sufficient that it causes valve piston 308 to open, such as by physical contact, when flow object 360 is coupled to the valve.

[0107] FIGS. 1 and 2 also show bypass line 110. Bypass line 110 acts as abypass around primary filter 112 and secondary filter 114 in FIG. 1. Bypass line is operatively connected to pressure sensor 150. Pressure sensor 150 is operatively connected (for example, mechanically or electronically) to solenoid 152. When pressure sensor 150 registers a fluid pressure in bypass line 150 less than a particular threshold, solenoid 152 closes the connection between bypass line 110 and bypass exit line 154. However, when pressure sensor 150 registers a pressure at or above the threshold, pressure sensor 152 causes solenoid 152 to change configurations (e.g., actuate or open) to permit bypass line 110 to connect to bypass exit line 154, such that fluid in bypass line 110 can flow into bypass exit line 154 and then into fluid discharge line 117 to exit via fluid outlet 104.

[0108] Different conditions may cause pressure sensor 150 to actuate solenoid 152. For example, if one or both of primary filter 112 or secondary filter 114 become filled with filtered particles and debris such that the flow through filtration device 100 is impeded to cause backpressure at pressure sensor 150, pressure sensor 150 may cause actuation of solenoid 152 to allow the fluid to pass to bypass exit line 154, thereby preventing damage to the filtration device or the source of inlet flow 103, such as a washing machine for which inlet flow 103 is the discharge from the washing machine. Another such condition is canister portion 108 is detached or not properly attached to primary housing portion 106, such that first valve 116 is in a closed position, which would create backpressure at pressure sensor 150, similarly triggering activation of solenoid 152 to permit fluid in bypass line 110 to flow into bypass exit line 154.

[0109] In some embodiments, the secondary filter 114 may comprise a collection unit to collect particles and debris filtered by the primary filter. The secondary filter 114 may comprise a further filtration material. In some embodiments,the secondary filter 114 may comprise a disposable collection unit. In some embodiments, the collection unit may be made of various materials and configured to isolate the collection of filtered particles into a disposable structure. For example, a disposable collection unit may have a design configured to use cross-flow filtration from the fluid entering the collection unit. This design allows for a more concentrated fluid to be processed using a wide range of inexpensive mesh materials without a substantial loss in filtration efficacy or decrease in service life. For example, in one embodiment, the disposable collection unit includes a cotton fiber mesh, which can be disposed of after use. In some embodiments, the disposable collection unit may comprise a disposable filter media portion and a reusable base portion or reusable frame portion. In other embodiments, the filter media and base / frame portion may be disposable. In some embodiments the secondary filter 114 may comprise any disposable filtration material, such as those previously described herein, including stainless steel, various woven filtration media, non-woven filtration media, filtration meshes, synthetic filtration media, organic filtration media, polymer-based filtration media, or cellulose fiber filtration media. In some embodiments, the secondary filter114 may comprise a woven or non-woven bag, sack, or other non-rigid structure to facilitate particle collection. In some embodiments, the secondary filter 114 may comprise a rigid structure.

[0110] In some embodiments, the secondary filter 114 may comprise a disposable filter media that is configured to seal the disposable filter media before disposal. Such embodiments mitigate the risk of unwanted collected waste (e.g., filtered material / residue) from falling out of the secondary filter. Such sealing may also encourage disposal of the secondary filter, rather than manual cleaning by a user to mitigate the collected residue from being washed down a drain or sink. Forexample, secondary filter 114 may comprise a tab of a resilient material having an opening configured to receive fluid containing filtered particles from primary filter 112(such as through first valve 116 and second valve 118). The resilient material may comprise metal or plastic. In one embodiment, it is made of a disposable or biodegradable material, such as wood, cardboard, cellulose, or bamboo. Fluid received through the tab opening is filtered by a secondary filter media to collect particles in secondary filter 114, while the second filtered fluid 125 is discharged via fluid discharge line 117 to fluid outlet 104. Thus the fluid being filtered may flow through a disposable filter media of secondary filter 114, which may have a conical, hemispherical, cylindrical, or balloon shape in some embodiments, or a loose bag or sack shape in some embodiments, that acts as a collection unit containing materials filtered from the fluid. A user may then extract the secondary filter 114, such as by pulling the tab. In some embodiments, pulling the tab may close the open end of secondary filter 114 to enclose the captured materials in the collection unit. The user may then affix a new or replacement secondary filter, which may also be disposable, to filtration device 100. It is contemplated that the closure of a disposable embodiment of secondary filter 114 need not be a fluid-tight or watertight closure or provide a complete closure, but need only reduce the size of the entry aperture to enclose the captured materials. In some embodiments, the entry aperture may not be closable.

[0111] Apparatuses, systems, and methods of the disclosure may be beneficially utilized in filtering applications in which the substance being filtered results in a “cake” (e.g., a build-up of particles) on the filter media that resulting in an increasing pressure drop across the filter media. A filtration system of some embodiments of the disclosure may reduce the pressure drop, allowing for reducedfilter cleaning and higher filter flow rates with low risk of problems such as flooding or equipment damage. Applications include microplastic filtering, whole house filters, gray water filters, boat filters, chemical process filtration, water filters, plastic resin filtration for recycling purposes, etc.

[0112] As used herein, unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “or'’ encompasses all possible combinations of elements, except where infeasible. For example, if it is stated that a component includes X or Y, then, unless specifically stated otherwise or infeasible, the component may include X, or Y, or X and Y. As a second example, if it is stated that a component includes X, Y, or Z, then, unless specifically stated otherwise or infeasible, the component may include X, or Y, or Z, or X and Y, or X and Z, or Y and Z, or X and Y and Z. Furthermore, the phrase “one of X and Y” or “one of X or Y” shall each be interpreted in the broadest sense to include one of X, or one of Y, or one of X and one of Y.

[0113] The block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer hardware / software products according to various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0114] It will be appreciated that the embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the exact construction that has been described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope thereof. For example, while examples have been discussed in the context of microplastic filtration, embodiments of the disclosure may be applicable to other forms of mass transport.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A valve comprising: a valve body comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity; a valve piston comprising a first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object and to provide a flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with the mating object.

2. The valve of claim 1 , wherein the valve piston has a centerline that is offset from the centerline of the flow cavity.

3. The valve of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet.

4. The valve of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet.

5. The valve of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

6. The valve of claims 1 or 2, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

7. The valve of any one of claims 1-6, wherein a first distance di between valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance d2between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity.

8. The valve of daim 7, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di.

9. The valve of daim 7, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between the first opening and the second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2.

10. The valve of daim 7, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater than a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2.

11. The valve any one of daims 1-10, wherein the valve further comprises a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object.

12. The valve of daim 11 , wherein the valve body is configured such that the second repulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening.

13. The valve of daim 11 , wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

14. The valve of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

15. The valve of any one of claims 1-15, further comprising at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

16. The valve of claim 15, further comprising at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

17. The valve of any one of claims 1-16, further comprising at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

18. A valve comprising: a valve body comprising a flow cavity; and a valve piston having a centerline offset from a centerline of the flow cavity.

19. The valve of claim 18, wherein the valve piston comprises a first repulsive force device configured to provide a flow path between a first opening and a second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with a mating object and to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with the mating object.

20. The valve of daim 19, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet.

21. The valve of daims 19 or 20, wherein the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet.

22. The valve of daim 19, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

23. The valve of daim 19, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

24. The valve of any one of daims 18-23, wherein a first distance di between the valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance d2 between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity.

25. The valve of daim 24, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between a first opening and a second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di.

26. The valve of daim 24, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between a first opening and a second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance dz27. The valve of daim 24, wherein the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater thana volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2.

28. The valve any one of claims 19-27, wherein the valve further comprises a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object.

29. The valve of claim 28, wherein the valve body is configured such that the second repulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening.

30. The valve of claim 28, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

31. The valve of any one of claims 19-30, wherein the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

32. The valve of any one of claims 18-31, further comprising at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

33. The valve of claim 32, further comprising at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

34. The valve of any one of claims 18-33, further comprising at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

35. A valve comprising: a valve body comprising a first opening, a second opening, and a flow cavity creating a flow path between the first opening and the second opening, wherein the centerline of the first opening is offset from the centerline of the second opening; and a valve piston having a centerline substantially inline with the centerline of the second opening and offset from the centerline of the first opening.

36. The valve of claim 35, wherein the valve piston comprises a first repulsive force device configured to open the flow path between the first opening and the second opening through the flow cavity when the valve piston is in contact with a mating object and to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with the mating object.

37. The valve of claim 36, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet configured to create a repulsive force against a second magnet.

38. The valve of claims 36 or 37, wherein the repulsive force is created by a magnetic pole of the first magnet facing the same magnetic pole of the second magnet.

39. The valve of claim 36, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a spring.

40. The valve of claim 36, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a balloon.

41. The valve of any one of claims 35-40, wherein a first distance di between the valve piston and the valve body in the flow cavity is greater than a second distance d2 between the opposite side of the valve piston to the valve body in the flow cavity.

42. The valve of claim 41 , wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between a first opening and a second opening flows substantially through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di.

43. The valve of claim 41 , wherein the flow cavity is configured such that fluid flowing between a first opening and a second opening is substantially inhibited through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2.

44. The valve of claim 41 , wherein the flow cavity is configured such that a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance di is greater than a volume of fluid flowing through a portion of the valve cavity comprising distance d2.

45. The valve any one of claims 36-44, wherein the valve further comprises a second repulsive force device configured to create a repulsive force with the first repulsive force device to cause the valve piston to seal the second opening when the valve piston is not in contact with a mating object.

46. The valve of claim 45, wherein the valve body is configured such that the secondrepulsive force device is not in a flow path between the first opening and the second opening.

47. The valve of claim 45, wherein the first repulsive force device comprises a first magnet and the second repulsive force device comprises a second magnet.

48. The valve of any one of claims 36-47, wherein the first repulsive force device is configured to create a non-contact repulsive force.

49. The valve of any one of claims 35-48, further comprising at least one protrusion configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

50. The valve of claim 49, further comprising at least one track configured to receive the protrusion and configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

51. The valve of any one of claims 35-50, further comprising at least one support configured to guide the valve piston in a movement of the valve piston from a closed position to an open position.

52. A filtration device comprising: a primary filter, a first valve, a second valve, and a secondary filter, wherein the first valve comprises a first opening that is configured to receive a fluid comprising solids filtered by the primary filter and a second opening that isconfigured to discharge the fluid from the first valve to the second valve, wherein the second valve comprises a first opening and a second opening, wherein the fluid discharged from the first valve enters the second opening of the second valve, and wherein the first opening of the second valve is configured to discharge the fluid to the secondary filter.

53. The filtration device of claim 52, wherein the primary filter is configured to discharge a first filtered fluid flow that has passed through a filter media of the primary filter, and wherein the fluid comprising solids filtered by the primary filter has not passed through the filter media of the primary filter.

54. The filtration device of claims 52 or 53, wherein the secondary filter is configured to collect solids from the fluid and to discharge a second filtered fluid flow that has passed through a filter media of the secondary filter.

55. The filtration device of any one of claims 52-54, wherein the first valve has a flow cavity and a first valve piston between the first opening of the first valve and the second opening of the first valve.

56. The filtration device of any one of claims 52-54, wherein the first valve comprises a first valve piston having a first repulsive force device and the second valve comprises a second valve piston having a second repulsive force device, wherein the first repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening of the first valve when the first valve is not coupled to the second valve and to provide a first flow path between the first opening and the second opening when the first valve iscoupled to the second valve.

57. The filtration device of claim 56, wherein the second repulsive force device configured to seal the second opening of the second valve when the second valve is not coupled to the first valve and to provide a second flow path between the first opening and the second opening when the second valve is coupled to the first valve.

58. The filtration device of claims 56 or 57, wherein the first repulsive device comprises a first magnet of the first valve opposed to a second magnet of the first valve.

59. The filtration device of any one of claims 56-58, wherein the second repulsive device comprises a first magnet of the second valve opposed to a second magnet of the second valve.

60. The filtration device of any one of claims 56-58, wherein the first valve piston is configured to contact the second valve piston when the first valve is coupled to the second valve to provide the first flow path and the second flow path such that fluid in the first flow path flows into the second flow path.

Images