Removable filter media filtration device and system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fluid filtration device (1) having a first face provided with a first opening (111) and at least a second face provided with at least a second opening (112) in communication with said first opening (111), said filtration device (1) comprising a filtration medium (12) disposed between said first opening (111) and said second opening (112) and at least one support element (161, 162) forming a wall downstream of said medium (12). Said device (1) has a third opening (113), said medium (12) being able to be inserted into and removed from said filtration device (1) via said third opening (113). Said device (1) further comprises a cover (13) configured to close said third opening (113) and first removable fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144) for said cover (13) with said filtration device (1). Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Filtration device and system with removable filter media technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of filtration devices and systems, in particular the filtration of gaseous fluids contaminated by vapors and fumes.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to the field of devices for industrial dust removal.

[0003] The present invention relates more particularly to a filtration device whose filtering part, i.e. the filtration medium, can be easily removed and replaced.

[0004] The present invention will thus find many advantageous applications in the design of filtration systems with reduced maintenance costs. State of the art

[0005] The use of fluid filtration systems is known in many industries, in order to purify, depollute or decontaminate a "dirty" fluid into a "clean" fluid.

[0006] In particular, the field of industrial dust removal corresponds to the filtration of polluted gaseous fluids during industrial activities producing a large quantity of fumes laden with dust, for example plasma cutting.

[0007] A plurality of filtration systems operate using filter cartridges. Such systems are configured to circulate a fluid, for example a gaseous fluid such as air, between several chambers, forcing it through the filter cartridges. These filter cartridges have a rigid structure that encloses and holds in position a filter medium, which absorbs various impurities from the fluid. Depending on the filter medium used, the filtration system can, for example, absorb fumes, moisture, or dust from a gaseous fluid.

[0008] During the operation of the filtration system, the filter media gradually becomes clogged by absorbing impurities, reducing its efficiency. Therefore, maintaining a filtration system involves replacing the filter cartridges with cartridges containing new filter media.

[0009] The Applicant thus observes that the exchange of the filter cartridges results in a loss of material. Indeed, during the operation of the filtration system, only the filter media actually loses efficiency. On the contrary, the rest of the filter cartridge, while potentially becoming clogged, continues to perform its function. structural. It therefore does not seem relevant to replace the entire filter cartridge when only one element requires regular change.

[0010] Some filter cartridges allow for the replacement of only a portion of the cartridge. The cartridge thus has a removable section consisting of two metal grids enclosing the filter media, forming a single unit. It also appears that this solution continues to generate unnecessary waste, particularly the metal part.

[0011] The Applicant therefore submits that there is currently no satisfactory alternative filtration system solution with the lowest possible maintenance requirements. Summary of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to improve the current situation described above.

[0013] The present invention is aimed more particularly at overcoming the following drawbacks: above by proposing a filtration system and device whose maintenance can be ensured by simply replacing the filtration media.

[0014] To this end, the object of the present invention relates in a first aspect to a fluid filtration device, the device extending substantially along an axis X, the device having a first face provided with a first opening and at least a second face provided with at least a second opening in communication with the first opening so that the fluid circulates in at least one direction of circulation between the first opening and the second opening, the first opening being disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis X, the at least a second opening being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to the axis X.

[0015] It is understood that the direction of flow corresponds to flow from the first opening to the second opening, or vice versa, depending on whether the filtration device is integrated into a filtration system, or more generally into any system incorporating fluid circulation. Depending on the design, the device is configured for a specific direction of flow or for both directions of flow.

[0016] It is further understood that the at least one second opening corresponds, for example, to a single opening or to a plurality of openings, for example, a large number of small openings distributed over the surface of the second face. Such a multiplicity of openings is implemented, for example, by a second face having a mesh or perforated structure, particularly as described below.

[0017] Preferably, the device has a cylindrical shape of revolution, with the X-axis corresponding to the axis of revolution of the device. The device could have other cylindrical shapes, for example, a cylinder with an oval cross-section. According to another embodiment, the device could have a parallelepiped shape.

[0018] At least one second opening is placed on the contour wall of the cylinder or parallelepiped, extending along the X-axis. This at least one second opening corresponds, for example, to a radial opening of a cylindrical device, or to a lateral opening of a parallelepiped device. This at least one second opening is, for example, located on the entire lateral face(s) of the device (depending on its shape), thus presenting a very large surface area and allowing, as stated below, the placement of a filter medium of complementary shape with a very large exchange surface, thereby maximizing filtration efficiency.

[0019] Advantageously, the filtration device comprises a filtration medium having a porous structure, the medium being disposed between the first opening and the second opening.

[0020] The porous structure is configured to allow the fluid to pass through and to capture particles or impurities, the porous structure being chosen according to the nature of the treatment to be carried out, i.e. the nature of the fluid and that of the particles or impurities.

[0021] It is understood here that the porous structure of the filtration medium allows the passage of the fluid, between the first opening and the second opening, while filtering it, that is to say removing one or more impurities.

[0022] For the purposes of this invention, "filtration media" means exclusively the active part of the filtration device, which performs an action of capturing impurities.

[0023] Obviously, it is understood here that the exact nature and composition of the filtration medium depends on the filtration process to be performed. The filtration medium is thus selected according to the fluid to be filtered, the impurities to be removed from the fluid, and the desired degree of purity at the outlet of the filtration device.

[0024] Preferably, the fluid corresponds to a gaseous fluid, preferably air.

[0025] It is further understood that the filtration device preferably corresponds to a filtration cartridge as known to the person skilled in the art, and as described and used in the prior art.

[0026] Advantageously, the filtration device includes at least one rigid support element having an open or perforated structure allowing the fluid to pass through, and at least one support element forming a wall disposed downstream of the medium according to the direction of flow.

[0027] The formation of a wall downstream of the media makes it possible to keep the filtering media in place, preventing any deformation during the operation of the device, without hindering its function. It is understood here that the notion of "downstream" is taken in considering the direction of fluid flow, the fluid flowing from an upstream opening to a downstream opening.

[0028] It is also understood that, if the device is adapted for fluid circulation in two directions, that is, both from the first opening to the second opening and vice versa, then at least one support element forms a wall located downstream of the medium in each direction of circulation, i.e., two walls. For example, two support elements are provided, located on either side of the filtration medium.

[0029] The open structure of the support element corresponds, for example, to a plurality of openings arranged along the support element, or to a grid-like structure. This design makes it possible both to retain the medium and to allow free flow of the fluid through the medium and the support element.

[0030] At least one support element, or any portion of at least one support element located on the surface of the device, defines, for example, the second face. For instance, a design is provided comprising at least one rigid support element extending from the first face along the X-axis, thus forming the second face. This design can advantageously be complemented by a filtering medium also extending from the first face along the X-axis, in the immediate vicinity of the second face.

[0031] At least one support element and / or the filtering medium extends for example from the first face to the lid described below.

[0032] At least one support element is for example assembled with the first face, for example welded along its end, adjusted in relation to an edge of the first face, glued, crimped, etc.

[0033] In particular, a mesh or openwork structure allows the structure of the device to be defined at the level of the second opening in a light, solid and simple way of making.

[0034] Advantageously, the device has a third opening arranged in a plane substantially perpendicular to the X axis, the media being able to be inserted and removed from the filtration device via the third opening to position itself between the first opening and at least one second opening, the device further comprising a cover configured to close the third opening and first means for removable fixing of the cover with the filtration device.

[0035] The first and third openings are, for example, arranged at opposite ends of the filtration device. According to another embodiment, the first and third openings are arranged in the same plane, the third opening being, for example, arranged around the first opening. The first opening and / or the third opening and / or the lid are, for example, centered on the X-axis.

[0036] In other words, the device includes a receiving volume for the filtration media, the third opening allowing access to the receiving volume, as well as the passage of the filtration media for its insertion and removal in the receiving volume.

[0037] Obviously, the cover can close off a larger portion of the device, for example, a portion through which the fluid flows before and / or after passing through the filter medium. According to a particular example described below, the filter medium is in the form of a tube or a hollow cylinder, and the cover covers an entire face of a cylinder comprising the hollow cylinder.

[0038] The first means of fixing correspond according to an advantageous example to clamping means, for example combined with seals arranged according to the ends of the filtering medium, thus making it possible to ensure a hermetic assembly of the lid and a total closure of the third opening.

[0039] Thus, when the filter media becomes clogged after use of the filtration device, the cover can be temporarily removed using the first fastening means, so as to access the filter media and replace it with new filter media. In particular, at least one support element does not need to be removed with the filter media. For example, at least one support element is fixed to the first face.

[0040] Thanks to the present invention, maintenance of a filtration system can be carried out without completely replacing the filter cartridges, by removing only the actually clogged part, i.e., the filter media. Maintenance costs and waste associated with maintenance are therefore reduced.

[0041] In one embodiment, the device further includes second means for fixing the filtration device to a wall, the second means for fixing being arranged between the first opening and the second opening.

[0042] It is understood here that the second means of fixing are configured to allow the mounting of the device, in particular in a filtration system as known to the person skilled in the art.

[0043] It is further understood that the arrangement of the second fastening means between the first and second openings allows the first opening to be associated with one side of the wall and the second opening with a second side of the wall. Thus, the device can easily be mounted so that the two fluid circulation openings are associated with two different spaces, the fluid circulation between the two spaces passing through the openings and therefore through the filtration medium.

[0044] The second means of attachment include, for example, a seal to ensure a hermetic fit to the wall. Obviously, the seal is arranged depending on the side of the second fixing means which is pressed against the wall.

[0045] Preferably, the first face and at least one second face are adjacent, the second fixing means being arranged at the junction of the first face and the second face.

[0046] It is understood here that, since the first face has the first opening and there is at least one second face has at least one second opening, this design corresponds to a compact embodiment of the device allowing its assembly by separating the first opening from the second opening. The second fastening means extend, for example, from the first face, radially with respect to the X-axis.

[0047] Preferably, the device includes a fixing flange forming the first face and comprising the first opening and the second fixing means.

[0048] The first opening is advantageously arranged along a central portion of the flange, so as to communicate with the interior of the filtration device, the second means of fixing being placed at the periphery of the flange.

[0049] The use of a flange thus allows the filtration device to be fixed to the wall with a simple tightening by rotating the device. The installation of a mounting flange for wall assembly is also simple and familiar to those skilled in the art. Such a mounting flange can be made of a variety of materials, preferably aluminum, or even plastic.

[0050] In an additional embodiment, the lid is arranged according to a third face offset from the first face, and the filtration device further includes a lid fixing element, the fixing element being assembled with the first face and comprising the first fixing means.

[0051] The third face is for example opposite the first face, that is to say that the third face and the first face form two ends of the filtration device.

[0052] The fastening element thus corresponds to a part passing through the structure of the filtration device to form a support for attaching the lid, and to allow its airtight closure, for example by tightening. The fastening element extends, for example, along the X-axis defined above, between the first face and the lid.

[0053] According to another embodiment, the third face is identical to the first face. The first face then presents the first opening and the third opening, the cover closing the third opening while leaving the first opening free. Naturally, such an embodiment does not require a fastening element passing through the device.

[0054] Preferably, the fastening element comprises: - a flat base configured to receive the first means of attachment; and - a plurality of branches assembled on one side with the flat base, on the other side with the first face.

[0055] The branches are for example assembled with the first face at a first end and with the flat base at a second end.

[0056] This design thus makes it possible to form a lightweight, compact, and robust structure with respect to the fluid flow. In other words, even if the fastening element is located in the path of the fluid during the operation of the device, for example, if the fastening element is located within an internal volume of the device, its multi-branch design allows the fluid to flow around the fastening element without difficulty.

[0057] In particular, the arrangement of a fastening element in the internal volume of the device makes it possible to ensure a compact design.

[0058] Preferably, the fixing element comprises two arms, the arms and the flat base together defining a substantially trapezoidal shape.

[0059] This design corresponds to a particularly simple shape of the fastening element, while remaining rigid in order to prevent deformation of the device during its operation. Such deformation could result in fluid leaks and a loss of filtration efficiency.

[0060] In particular, such a two-pronged fastening element extending from the same flat base can be made from a simple flat sheet folded to form the two prongs.

[0061] Obviously, other variants can also be provided including three, four or any other number of branches, for example depending on a compromise sought between the rigidity of the fixing element and the thickness of the branches, in order to impact the circulation of the fluid as little as possible.

[0062] In a particular embodiment, the fastening element has a plurality of flat ends assembled to the first face via third fastening means.

[0063] Each branch, for example, has a flat end allowing it to be assembled with the first face. The branches extend, for example, substantially along the X-axis, or obliquely with respect to the X-axis, and curve or fold back at the first face into a flat end extending in a plane parallel to the first face.

[0064] The flat ends therefore form robust supports for the assembly of the fixing element with the first face, and by extension of the cover with the first face, so as to resist the pressures generated by the circulation of the fluid during the operation of the device.

[0065] Preferably, the third means of fastening comprise a screw-nut assembly embedded in an adhesive matrix.

[0066] It is understood here that the screw-nut assembly allows the flat ends to be joined with the first face. The adhesive matrix, for example, covers the screw-nut assembly and the flat ends, thus both stiffening and sealing the assembly between the fastener and the first face, while also providing a smooth surface for receiving, in particular, the filter media in a watertight manner. Furthermore, using a screw-nut assembly in combination with the adhesive matrix is ​​more resistant to axial forces than using an adhesive matrix alone.

[0067] It is also possible to embed the base of at least one support element in the glue matrix, so as to also ensure their assembly to the first face.

[0068] Obviously, a plurality of materials can be considered for the production of such a glue matrix.

[0069] According to another embodiment, the fixing element is directly assembled to a perimeter of the first opening, for example by welding, or by providing the first opening with a rim, the arms of the fixing element coming to grip the rim.

[0070] In an additional embodiment, the first fastening means include a screw integral with the fastening element and a first nut configured to tighten the cover onto the screw, the cover having a first hole for the passage of the screw.

[0071] This design therefore allows the cover to be tightened against the fastening element, and by extension against the first face. The cover is tightened by tightening the first nut.

[0072] It is further understood that tightening the lid vis-à-vis the first face is particularly advantageous when the lid and the first face are arranged at two ends of the device, resulting in an effective and airtight tightening of the lid.

[0073] Preferably, the fastening element has a second hole for the screw (preferably on the flat base above), the first fastening means comprising a second nut configured to tighten the screw on the fastening element.

[0074] It is understood here that the second through hole is associated with the flat base of the fastener, for example, directly formed on the flat base. This design therefore makes it easy to associate the first fasteners with the fastener, without requiring complex or difficult-to-manufacture shapes.

[0075] In another embodiment, the first fastening means comprise a threaded rod provided with a cover clamping head, the threaded rod being complementary to a tapping arranged on the fastening element.

[0076] This design also allows the cover to be tightened against the fastening element. This design is also simpler to manufacture, comprising fewer components. The cover is tightened by tightening the head. clamping. The threaded rod fitted with a clamping head corresponds, for example, to a wing nut.

[0077] In an advantageous embodiment, the filtering medium extends along the X axis between a first end and a second end and has a body with a plurality of folds along the X axis.

[0078] This design is particularly advantageous when the first face and the lid are positioned at opposite ends of the device, as the filter medium then extends along the entire length of the device to provide a larger filtration surface area. Of course, if the lid is positioned at the first face, it is still possible to provide a filter medium extending along the entire length of the device to maximize the filtration surface area and ensure that the fluid passes through the medium as it flows between the first and second openings. In other words, the filter medium is advantageously designed to prevent fluid flow between the medium and the first face and / or the lid.

[0079] It is understood here that the folds contribute to the filtering effect of the medium, for example by increasing the exchange surface with the fluid.

[0080] This arrangement of the folds, i.e. with a fold line parallel to the X axis, makes it possible to stiffen the filter medium along this axis of revolution, reducing the risk of deformation and therefore of air circulation beyond the ends, for example, as described above, between the medium and the first face and / or the cover.

[0081] In accordance with the underlying concept of the invention, the ends are made of a plastic material, for example polyester.

[0082] It is understood here that, in the design of the filtration medium, the use of metallic elements or any material producing substantial and difficult-to-recover waste is to be avoided.

[0083] Preferably, the filtration medium has a hollow tube or cylinder structure defining an axis of revolution.

[0084] It is understood here that the hollow tube or cylinder structure allows for a very large exchange surface area for the same volume, maximizing the efficiency of the filtration medium. It is also understood that the difference between a tube and a cylinder structure corresponds to whether or not the ends of the cylinder are open.

[0085] The axis of revolution corresponds for example to the X axis described above.

[0086] In an embodiment that can be combined with the previous embodiment, the filtering medium has at least one end equipped with at least one sealing gasket.

[0087] It is understood here that the arrangement of sealing joints makes it possible, as stated above, to prevent the circulation of fluid bypassing the filtration medium, in particular between the medium and the first face and / or the cover.

[0088] According to a first design, the end(s) are provided with a groove receiving the sealing gasket. The ends thus correspond to rigid portions of the filtration medium.

[0089] According to a second design, the ends form the sealing joint, and are for example made of a malleable material with a shape complementary to a portion of the first face and / or the cover.

[0090] In another embodiment, the device comprises at least two rigid support elements, the at least two support elements defining a media reception volume, the reception volume having the third opening.

[0091] As stated above, the device comprises a media receiving volume, the third opening allowing the insertion and removal of the media into the receiving volume. The two support elements thus define the media receiving volume.

[0092] For example, exactly two support elements are provided, including an external support element and an internal support element, the space between the two support elements corresponding to the media reception volume, delimited by the third opening.

[0093] Thus, according to a particular embodiment, the device comprises two rigid support elements extending along the X axis and forming an inner enclosure and an outer enclosure, for example an inner cylinder and an outer cylinder, the medium being disposed between the two support elements.

[0094] Preferably, an internal support element is assembled with a perimeter of the first opening, and an external support element is assembled with the first face along an external edge of the first face.

[0095] This design maximizes the receiving volume relative to the dimensions of the first face.

[0096] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a fluid filtration system comprising an enclosure containing at least two chambers separated by a wall, the wall having at least one opening receiving a filtration device according to the first aspect of the invention such that the first opening communicates with a first chamber and the second opening communicates with a second chamber, and pressurization means configured to circulate the fluid between the chambers via the filtration device.

[0097] The filtration device is for example provided with the second means of fixing described above, allowing its fixing on the wall, for example on complementary means of the second means of fixing.

[0098] The wall is, for example, provided with a plurality of openings, each opening receiving a filtration device, for example based on a ratio between a flow rate The air to be treated by the filtration system and the air flow rate that a filtration device can process. Similarly, a plurality of walls arranged in series can be provided, each wall being equipped with one or more filtration devices, for example, according to a ratio between a desired purity of the fluid and the filtration efficiency of an individual device.

[0099] The fluid circulation thus corresponds to the passage of the fluid between the first chamber and the second chamber, one of the chambers corresponding to a "dirty" chamber and the other chamber to a "clean" chamber.

[0100] The maintenance of such a filtration system thus corresponds to opening the cover of the filtration devices, optionally after separating them from the wall if the cover is difficult to access, and then replacing the filtration media in the filtration device.

[0101] Thus, by the various functional and structural characteristics above, the Applicant proposes a device and a fluid filtration system whose maintenance requires only the replacement of the filtration media located inside the filtration device, minimizing the losses and waste generated by such maintenance. Brief description of the figures

[0102] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the particular and non-limiting embodiments of the present invention below, with reference to the attached Figures 1 to 6, in which:

[0103] [Fig.1]

[0104] [Fig.1] schematically illustrates a filtration device according to a first particular and non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0105] [Fig.2]

[0106] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates an exploded and partial sectional view of a device conforming to [Fig.1];

[0107] [Fig.3]

[0108] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates an exploded and partial sectional view of a device conforming to [Fig.1], from which the filtration medium is removed;

[0109] [Fig.4]

[0110] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a filtration medium of a filtration device conforming to [Fig.1]; [YES] [Fig.5]

[0112] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a portion of a first face of a device conforming to [Fig.1];

[0113] [Fig.6]

[0114] Figure 6 schematically illustrates a filtration device according to a second example of an embodiment of the present invention, from which the filtration medium and the cover are removed.

[0115] Description of implementation examples

[0116] A fluid filtration device and system will now be described in what follows with joint reference to Figures 1 to 6. The same elements are identified with the same reference signs throughout the following description.

[0117] As indicated in the preamble to the description, maintenance operations on current filtration systems result in the waste of still functional materials when changing a filter cartridge.

[0118] One of the objectives of the present invention is to provide a reusable filter cartridge allowing maintenance that generates a minimum of waste.

[0119] This is made possible in the example described below.

[0120] According to the example in Figures 1 and 2, a fluid filtration device 1 is thus provided. Such a device can be integrated into a fluid filtration system, in particular a system such as is known to those skilled in the art.

[0121] A conventional filtration system, in particular a filtration system for a gaseous fluid such as air, comprises a housing containing at least two chambers separated by a wall, the wall having one or more openings. The filtration system also includes means for pressurizing the fluid, for example, ventilation means or a pressurized fluid inlet. The pressurization means thus allow circulation of the fluid between the two chambers, via the openings in the wall.

[0122] Each opening in the wall thus receives a filtration device 1, corresponding in particular to a filter cartridge. The fluid circulation therefore forces the fluid to pass through the filtration device 1, so as to obtain filtered fluid at the outlet of the filtration system. Obviously, depending on the design of the filtration system, its connection, its flow rate, as well as the nature and constraints of the filtrations to be performed, the filtration system can have a variable geometry and be configured to receive a greater or lesser number of filtration devices 1, in parallel or in series.

[0123] As illustrated in [Fig. 1], the device 1 has a first face having a first opening 111 and at least a second face having at least a second opening 112 in communication with the first opening 111. In other words, the device 1 is designed so that the fluid can flow through the device, between the first opening 111 and at least a second opening 112.

[0124] The first opening 111 and the second opening 112 therefore correspond respec The device 1 is assembled in the filtration system so that the first opening 111 communicates with a first chamber and the second opening 112 communicates with a second chamber. The pressurization means thus allow, according to the design, fluid circulation from the first opening 111 to the second opening 112, or vice versa.

[0125] In the example considered here and as illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 and 6, the device 1 extends substantially along an axis X. In particular, the device 1 has a cylindrical shape, with the axis X forming an axis of revolution of the device 1. The first opening 111 is arranged along the axis X, that is, in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis X. The second opening 112 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the axis X, that is, here along a lateral face of the cylindrical device 1, namely the contour wall of the cylinder. Preferably, a plurality of second openings 112 are advantageously distributed over the entire lateral face of the device 1, or over a major portion thereof. It is understood here that, in this example, the second opening 112 corresponds to a plurality of second openings 112 distributed over a large surface defined by the contour wall.The first opening 111 corresponds, for example, advantageously to a central opening of the device 1, arranged along a longitudinal end of the device 1.

[0126] Advantageously, and as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the device 1 includes secondary fastening means 151. These secondary fastening means 151 allow the device 1 to be fixed to a wall, in particular to the wall of the filtration system, separating the two chambers. The secondary fastening means 151 are thus arranged between the first opening 111 and the second opening 112, so that the fixing of the device 1 correctly results in the arrangement of the first opening 111 and the second opening 112 in separate chambers.

[0127] In this same example, the device 1 comprises a mounting flange 15 forming the first face. The flange 15 includes the first opening 111, along a central portion as described above, and the second mounting means 151, along the radial ends of the flange 15. Securing the device 1 to the wall thus corresponds to clamping the flange 15 to the wall, for example, using complementary means. Here, the second mounting means 151 comprise at least three tabs extending radially with respect to the X-axis, each tab having a notch that allows the tabs of the device 1 to engage in complementary grooves in the wall. The clamping of the flange 15 is then achieved by rotation. As illustrated in [Fig. 1], the second mounting means 151 are complemented by a Seal 154, in particular an annular seal in a cylindrical configuration. Seal 154 ensures that the clamping of device 1 to the wall, via flange 15, is airtight, and that fluid does not circulate between the wall and device 1.

[0128] Device 1 further comprises, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, a filtration medium 12 disposed between the first opening 111 and the second opening 112. The medium 12 has a porous structure, that is, a structure allowing the passage of fluid while performing a filtration action, for example, capturing impurities, vapors, or a specific molecule. Naturally, the exact structure of the medium 12 depends on the desired filtration, particularly on criteria based on the type of filtration to be performed, the filtration quality achieved, and the acceptable pressure drop resulting from the filtration.

[0129] Thus, when the fluid is put into circulation between the two chambers, it passes through the device 1 via the first opening 111 and the second opening 112, and by extension through the filtration medium 12.

[0130] In this same example, the filtering medium 12 is positioned in the immediate vicinity of the second opening 112 and has a hollow tube shape that fits inside the cylinder of the device 1. The hollow tube and the device 1 both share the X-axis as their axis of revolution. The hollow tube shape provides a very large contact surface area relative to the volume of the device 1, thus maximizing filtration efficiency.

[0131] As illustrated in [Fig. 4], the media 12 also has a plurality of folds 124 oriented along the axis of revolution of the media 12, i.e., here along the X-axis. The folded shape of the media 12 is, for example, an integral part of its design as a filtering element, in order to maximize its filtration surface area. This design also makes the media 12 particularly robust along this axis, in order to prevent any deformation. In particular, deformations of the media 12 can result in fluid circulating around the media 12 to pass between the first opening 111 and the second opening 112, and thus in a loss of efficiency. Increasing the rigidity of the media 12 therefore ensures the prolonged efficiency of the device 1.

[0132] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and 6, the device 1 advantageously comprises at least one rigid support element 171, 172. In the example of Figures 1 to 3, the device 1 comprises two rigid support elements 171, 172 defining a receiving volume for the media 12. In other words, the media 12 is disposed within the receiving volume and held in position at least partially by the support elements 171, 172.

[0133] The support elements 171, 172 correspond for example to an internal support element 171 and an external support element 172, here to two cylinders of different diameter.

[0134] In another example illustrated in [Fig.6], only one of the two support elements 171, 172 may be present, the one located on the downstream side with respect to the direction of fluid flow through the medium 12. Here, only one external support element 172 is provided, corresponding to a flow of fluid from the first opening 111 to the second opening 112.

[0135] The support elements 171, 172 further have an open or perforated structure allowing the fluid to pass through. Thus, the media 12 is held in position by the support elements 171, 172 without the latter impeding the flow of the fluid, and the rigidity of the support elements 171, 172 prevents any deformation or displacement of the media 12 outside the receiving volume under the pressure of the fluid. Advantageously, support elements 171, 172 are provided with a mesh or perforated structure. Such a structure makes it possible to obtain rigid, permeable, and easy-to-manufacture support elements 171, 172.

[0136] In particular, the combination of a rigidity of the media 12 along the X axis, and the arrangement of the support elements 171, 172 around the media 12 makes it possible to avoid deformations of the media 12 in all directions.

[0137] In accordance with the underlying concept of the invention, the device 1 has a third opening 113 and the media 12 is configured to be inserted into and removed from the device 1 via the third opening 113. As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the third opening 113 is arranged along the X-axis, i.e., the media 12 is inserted into and removed by translation along the X-axis. It is further understood that the receiving volume, in particular the volume formed by the support elements 171, 172, has the third opening 113, since the third opening 113 allows the insertion of the media 12, and the media 12 is configured to be arranged within the receiving volume.

[0138] Thus, when the media 12 becomes soiled and loses efficiency after prolonged use, it is removed via the third opening 113 and can be replaced by another medium. This design thus preserves the rest of the device 1, in particular the support elements 171, 172, by replacing only the media 12, which is the only element that has actually been consumed. Furthermore, the media 12 can also be replaced for any reason other than a loss of efficiency, for example, to change the filtration required, provided that the other medium is also suitable for insertion into the receiving volume.

[0139] In combination with the third opening 113, a cover 13 is also provided, configured to close the third opening 113. The cover 13 is removably assembled to the device 1, for example via the first removable fastening means 141, 142, 143, 144 illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. Thus, the cover 13 is removed for changing the media 12, and closes the third opening 113 during the operation of device 1.

[0140] In the example shown in Figures 1 to 3, the cover 13 is arranged along a third face offset from the first face. Here, the cover 13 is arranged along a longitudinal end of the device 1, opposite the first face. According to another embodiment, the cover 13 can be arranged along the first face, for example, around the first opening 111.

[0141] To ensure the proper functioning of the device 1, it is advantageously provided that the media 12 has a first end 121 arranged in a sealed manner with respect to a portion of the first face and a second end 122 arranged in a sealed manner with respect to a portion of the cover 13, as illustrated in [Fig. 4]. The media 12 is, for example, formed on the one hand of a body 123, which advantageously has folds 124, and on the other hand of moldings arranged along the ends 121, 122 of the body 123 and provided with sealing gaskets 125. According to the example in [Fig. 5], the ends 121, 122 have a groove for receiving the sealing gasket 125.According to other examples, the ends 121, 122 are themselves designed to ensure sealing, for example by designing two seals attached respectively to the two end edges of the body 123, for example by bonding, welding or overmolding, and complementary to two grooves arranged on the internal sides of the flange 15 and the cover 13. This design ensures that the ends are rigid, thus reducing the risk of deformation of the media 12, and a fluid seal between the media 12 and the cover 13, on the one hand, and between the media 12 and the flange 15 having the first face, on the other hand.

[0142] When the cover is arranged with a third face offset from the first face, a fastening element 161, 162, 163 is also provided, as illustrated in Figures 1 to 3. The fastening element 161, 162, 163 is assembled with the first face and includes the first fastening means 141, 142, 143, 144. The use of a fastening element 161, 162, 163 makes it possible in particular to avoid any stress on the support elements 171, 172 resulting from the fastening of the cover 13, especially on support elements 171, 172 with a mesh structure whose design remains very simple, and also to ensure proper fastening of the cover 13 to the device 1, which is subjected to high pressures during the operation of the filtration system.

[0143] Furthermore, the fastening element 161, 162, 163 can be arranged along an internal portion of the device 1, in particular inside the internal support element 171, without increasing its volume and only minimally hindering the circulation of the fluid in the device 1. The use of a cover 13 along the third face also makes it possible to retain simple support elements 171, 172, the cover 13 closing not only the third opening 113 but also the opening formed by the internal support element 171. It is therefore not necessary to alter the support elements 171, 172 to close the device 1 opposite the first face.

[0144] In this same example, the fastening element 161, 162, 163 comprises a flat base 161 receiving the first fastening means 141, 142, 143, 144 and a plurality of arms 162 assembled with the base 161 and with the first face. For example, two arms 162 extending on either side of the base 161 are provided, jointly forming a trapezoidal shape and which can be produced very simply by bending a flat piece.

[0145] As illustrated in [Fig. 5], the fastening element 161, 162, 163 has a plurality of flat ends 163, in particular the ends of the arms 162. The flat ends 163 are assembled on the flange 15 via third fastening means 164, 165, 166. The third fastening means 164, 165, 166 comprise on the one hand a screw-nut assembly 164, 165 for assembling the flat ends on the first face, here on the flange 15, and on the other hand an adhesive matrix 166 embedding the screw-nut assembly 164, 165.

[0146] In this same example, the adhesive matrix 166 also allows the external support element 172 to be assembled with the first face. Naturally, the internal support element 171 can also be assembled in the same way. Other embodiments of the attachment between the support element 171, 172 and the first face are also provided, for example by welding, crimping, or screwing.

[0147] The adhesive matrix 166 also forms a contact surface between the flange 15 and the first end 121 of the filter media 12. The sealing gasket 125 is therefore arranged here between the adhesive matrix 166 and the first end 121, the adhesive matrix 166 being an integral part of the first face.

[0148] Advantageously, the first face has on the one hand a rim around the perimeter 152 of the first opening, which assists the positioning of the fixing element 161, 162, 163 ([Fig.5]), on the other hand another rim 153 according to its radial end, the other rim 153 receiving the external support element 172.

[0149] As stated previously, the cover 13 is assembled to the base 161, and by extension to the first face, via the first fastening means 141, 142, 143, 144. A screw 141 is thus provided, integral with the fastening element 161, 162, in particular tightened onto the base 161 via a second nut 144. The cover 13 is then tightened onto the screw 141 via a first nut 142, in particular a wing nut (or butterfly nut), combined with a washer 143. The removable fastening of the cover 13 is thus achieved by tightening; loosening the first nut 142 allows the removal of the cover 13 and therefore of the media 12. Alternatively, a threaded rod with a wing head (butterfly head) can be provided, which is screwed onto a threaded hole arranged on the base 161.

[0150] Tightening the cover 13 towards the first face results in tightening the cover 13 on the second face, in particular on the ends 173 of the support elements 171, 172. This tightening of the cover 13 allows the seals at the ends 121, 122 of the media 12 to be slightly compressed, on one side on the cover 13 and on the other on the flange 15, thus ensuring the seal between the media 12 and the cover 13, on the one hand, and between the media 12 and the flange 15, on the other hand.

[0151] Thus, it will be understood that the present invention provides a device and a fluid filtration system, the filtration of which is ensured by a filtration medium, allowing the medium to be replaced when it has been sufficiently used and is therefore clogged, while retaining all the other elements of the filtration device. Such a device therefore offers reduced maintenance costs and generates less waste compared to solutions with removable cartridges.

[0152] It should be noted that this detailed description relates to a particular embodiment of the present invention, but in no way does this description limit the scope of the invention; on the contrary, its purpose is to remove any possible inaccuracy or misinterpretation of the following claims.

[0153] It should also be noted that the reference signs in parentheses in the following claims are in no way intended to be limiting; these signs are solely intended to improve the intelligibility and understanding of the following claims and the scope of protection sought.

Claims

Demands

1. A fluid filtration device (1), said device extending substantially along an axis X, said device having a first face having a first opening (111) and at least a second face having at least a second opening (112) in communication with said first opening (111) such that said fluid flows in at least one direction of flow between said first opening (111) and said second opening (112), said first opening (111) being disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to said axis X, said at least one second opening (112) being disposed in a plane substantially parallel to said axis X, said filtration device (1) comprising a filtration medium (12) having a porous structure, said medium (12) being disposed between said first opening (111) and said second opening (112), said filtration device (1) comprising at least one support element (171,172) rigid having an open or perforated structure allowing said fluid to pass through, said at least one support element (171, 172) forming a wall disposed downstream of said media (12) in said direction of flow, characterized in that said device (1) has a third opening (113) disposed in a plane substantially perpendicular to said axis X, said media (12) being capable of being inserted into and removed from said filtration device (1) via said third opening (113) to be positioned between said first opening (111) and said at least one second opening (112), said device (1) further comprising a cover (13) configured to close said third opening (113) and first removable fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144) of said cover (13) with said filtration device (1).

2. Filtration device (1) according to claim 1, further comprising second means for fixing said filtration device (1) to a wall, said second means for fixing (151) being disposed between said first opening (111) and said second opening (112).

3. A filtration device (1) according to claim 2, which includes a fixing flange (15) forming said first face and comprising said first opening (111) and said second fixing means (151).

4. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in said cover (13) is arranged according to a third face offset from said first face, and said filtration device (1) further includes a fixing element (161, 162, 163) of said cover (13), said fixing element (161, 162, 163) being assembled with said first face and comprising said first fixing means (141, 142, 143, 144).

5. A filtration device (1) according to claim 4, wherein said fastening element (161, 162, 163) comprises: - a flat base (161) configured to receive said first fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144); and - a plurality of arms (162) assembled on the one hand with said flat base (161), on the other hand with said first face.

6. A filtration device (1) according to claim 5, wherein said fixing element (161, 162, 163) comprises two arms (162), said arms (162) and said flat base (161) jointly defining a substantially trapezoidal shape.

7. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein said fastening element (161, 162, 163) has a plurality of flat ends (163) assembled with said first face via third fastening means (164, 165, 166).

8. Filtration device (1) according to claim 7, wherein said third fastening means (164, 165, 166) comprise a screw-nut assembly (164, 165) embedded in an adhesive matrix (166).

9. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein said first fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144) comprise a screw (141) integral with said fastening element (161, 162, 163) and a first nut (142) configured to tighten said cover (13) onto said screw (141), said cover (13) having a first through hole (131) for said screw (141).

10. Filtration device (1) according to claim 9, wherein said fastening element (161, 162, 163) has a second hole for the passage of said screw (141), said first fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144) comprising a second nut (144) configured to tighten said screw (141) on said fastening element (161, 162, 163).

11. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein said first fastening means (141, 142, 143, 144) comprise a threaded rod having a clamping head for said cover (13), said threaded rod being complementary to a thread arranged on said fixing element (161, 162, 163).

12. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said filtration media (12) extends along said axis X between a first end (121) and a second end (122) and has a body (123) provided with a plurality of pleats (124) along said axis X.

13. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said filtration media (12) has at least one end (121, 122) provided with at least one sealing gasket (125).

14. A filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, which comprises at least two rigid support elements (171, 172), said at least two support elements (171) defining a receiving volume of said media (12), said receiving volume having said third opening (113).

15. A filtration system for fluid comprising an enclosure containing at least two chambers separated by a wall, the wall having at least one opening receiving a filtration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 such that said first opening (111) communicates with a first chamber and said second opening (112) communicates with a second chamber, and pressurization means configured to circulate said fluid between the chambers via said filtration device (1).

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