Self-cleaning filter media

Abstract

Self-cleaning filtration systems and methods may include: (a) filtering a fluid through a filter media having a clean side and a dirty side, thereby accumulating particles from the fluid on the dirty side; and (b) applying vibrations with one or more vibration sources to one or both of (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter media or (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter media, thereby vibrating the filter media and removing at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter media.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] cross reference This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 275,930, filed November 4, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 275,931, filed November 4, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 275,932, filed November 4, 2021, each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. [Background technology]

[0002] Fluid filtration may include filtering and purifying fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, etc.) and may include or involve trapping, changing the chemical composition, or otherwise excluding particles (e.g., filtering, etc.) in such fluids. Fluid filtration can be applied in any industry where a fluid needs to be purified or filtered, such as, for example, the automotive industry, large vehicles, automobiles, public transportation (e.g., trains, airplanes, etc.), agricultural machinery, construction machinery, mining machinery, scientific research facilities, medical facilities, personal protective equipment (e.g., face masks or respirators), residential and commercial, manufacturing, industrial plants, food and beverage industry, pharmacology industry, cleaning equipment and machines (e.g., vacuum cleaners), and other such fields of use.

[0003] Filter media can include fibrous or porous materials that remove solid particles (e.g., ash, dust, dirt, debris, granules, lint, mold, pathogens, pollen, powders, soot, etc.) from fluids. Filters containing adsorbents or catalysts such as charcoal (carbon) can also remove odors and gaseous contaminants such as volatile organic compounds or ozone. Some filters use foam, pleated paper, or spun glass fiber filter elements. Some filters use fibers or elements with an electrostatic charge that attracts particles. Some filters use an oil bath to capture particles.

[0004] Fluid filtration can be important for the operation of machinery, such as car filters that filter air before it enters a car's engine or passenger compartment. In some cases, fluid filtration can be important for health, such as air purifiers or high-efficiency particulate arrestor (HEPA) filters in hospitals that filter out infectious diseases such as COVID-19. In some cases, fluid filtration can be important for cleaning dust, such as filters operating inside vacuum cleaners, such as autonomous vacuum cleaners.

[0005] During operation of the filtration system, the filter media (e.g., porous filter media) may become covered and filled with particles. The presence of particles on the filter media may degrade the performance of the filtration system with each use and over time. Therefore, to reduce performance degradation, the filter media in the filtration system may be replaced relatively early in its life. Replacing the filter media typically involves stopping the operation of the filtration system for at least the time spent replacing the filter media. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure describes systems and methods for self-cleaning filtration systems that, in some cases, improve the performance of filtration operations and reduce replacement, maintenance, and labor costs (e.g., by extending the life of the filters). In addition, the systems and methods described herein may, in various cases, reduce the power required during operation of the filtration system while improving or otherwise imparting improvements in fluid quality compared to conventional filtration techniques.

[0007] In some aspects, the present disclosure provides a self-cleaning filtration system comprising: (a) a filter medium having a clean side and a dirty side, the dirty side being configured to accumulate particles from a fluid while performing a filtration operation on the fluid; (b) one or both of (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter medium or (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter medium; and (c) one or more vibration sources configured to apply vibrations to one or both of the filter housing or the reinforcing structure, thereby vibrating the filter medium to remove at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter medium.

[0008] In some aspects, the disclosure provides a self-cleaning filtration method comprising: (a) filtering a fluid through a filter medium having a clean side and a dirty side, thereby accumulating particles from the fluid on the dirty side; and (b) applying vibrations by one or more vibration sources to one or both of (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter medium, or (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter medium, thereby vibrating the filter medium and removing at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter medium.

[0009] Further aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, in which only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be understood, the present disclosure is capable of other variations and its several details are capable of modification in various obvious respects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

[0010] Incorporation by Reference All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned herein are incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In the event that the publications and patents or patent applications incorporated by reference conflict with the disclosure contained herein, the present specification is intended to supersede or take precedence over any such conflicting material. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative instances in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also referred to herein as "Figure" and "FIG."). [Figure 1A] 1A-1C show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] 1A-1C show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 1C] 1A-1C show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a diagram of an exemplary conventional or direct fluid filtration operation (also referred to as a filtration operation) consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a diagram of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration / flow operation or operation (aka self-cleaning operation) consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 4A-4D show diagrams of three implementations of cross-sectional aspects of exemplary filters relating to, for example, filters and structures, filtering operations, and particle removal processes or operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure, i.e., FIG. 4A (filter structure and structure), FIG. 4B (filtering operation), FIG. 4C (cleaning operation), and FIG. 4D (examples of relative applied loads in exemplary embodiments). [Figure 4B] 4A-4D show diagrams of three implementations of cross-sectional aspects of exemplary filters relating to, for example, filters and structures, filtering operations, and particle removal processes or operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure, i.e., FIG. 4A (filter structure and structure), FIG. 4B (filtering operation), FIG. 4C (cleaning operation), and FIG. 4D (examples of relative applied loads in exemplary embodiments). [Figure 4C] 4A-4D show diagrams of three implementations of cross-sectional aspects of exemplary filters relating to, for example, filters and structures, filtering operations, and particle removal processes or operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure, i.e., FIG. 4A (filter structure and structure), FIG. 4B (filtering operation), FIG. 4C (cleaning operation), and FIG. 4D (examples of relative applied loads in exemplary embodiments). [Figure 4D] 4A-4D show diagrams of three implementations of cross-sectional aspects of exemplary filters relating to, for example, filters and structures, filtering operations, and particle removal processes or operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure, i.e., FIG. 4A (filter structure and structure), FIG. 4B (filtering operation), FIG. 4C (cleaning operation), and FIG. 4D (examples of relative applied loads in exemplary embodiments). [Figure 4E] 4E-4G show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 4F] 4E-4G show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 4G] 4E-4G show three exemplary filter media implementations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 illustrates various exemplary waveforms that may be applied as a process to impart vibration to a filter to effect self-cleaning of the filter, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates diagrams of exemplary filter fibers of various particulate-accumulating filter media consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A]7A and 7B show two exemplary self-cleaning filtration systems, which may be fixed relative to an XYZ coordinate system (as shown or otherwise), representative of a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7B] 7A and 7B show two exemplary self-cleaning filtration systems, which may be fixed relative to an XYZ coordinate system (as shown or otherwise), representative of a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7C] 7C and 7D show two relative positions of an exemplary cone-shaped filter media in such a self-cleaning filtration system, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7D] 7C and 7D show two relative positions of an exemplary cone-shaped filter media in such a self-cleaning filtration system, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8C] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8D] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8E] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8F] 8A-8F show top perspective views of various exemplary self-cleaning filtration system assemblies consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 9A] 9A and 9B show perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] 9A and 9B show perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A illustrates an exemplary filter with an actuator / sensor component or compartment, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B illustrates another exemplary filter with an actuator / sensor component or compartment, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C illustrates yet another exemplary filter with several actuator / sensor compartments consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system or systems consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 illustrates a representation of example filter components, such as the relative location of an example sensor with respect to an example primary filter medium, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 13A] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 13B] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 13C] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 13D] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 13E] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 13F] 13A-13F illustrate an exemplary actuator consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 illustrates a diagram of an example energy harvester, including the relative position of the example energy harvester to an example primary filter medium, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 illustrates a diagram of one example of a piping formation and pre- / post-filter configuration for an exemplary filter media (eg, an example including a second inlet and a second outlet) consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 shows a diagram of an exemplary filtration system including an additional disinfection or purification embodiment consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 17A] 17A-17D show exemplary diagrams of various pre-filters, main filters, and post-filter media or materials that may be utilized in exemplary filtration mechanisms or systems of the disclosed technology, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 17B] 17A-17D show exemplary diagrams of various pre-filters, main filters, and post-filter media or materials that may be utilized in exemplary filtration mechanisms or systems of the disclosed technology, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 17C] 17A-17D show exemplary diagrams of various pre-filters, main filters, and post-filter media or materials that may be utilized in exemplary filtration mechanisms or systems of the disclosed technology, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 17D] 17A-17D show exemplary diagrams of various pre-filters, main filters, and post-filter media or materials that may be utilized in exemplary filtration mechanisms or systems of the disclosed technology, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 illustrates an exemplary electrostatic air filter in which the disclosed filtration mechanisms or systems may be utilized, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 19A] 19A-19C show diagrams of exemplary flow paths for implementation of continuous filtration in which one or more embodiments of the disclosed filtration mechanisms or filtration systems may be utilized, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 19B] 19A-19C show diagrams of exemplary flow paths for implementation of continuous filtration in which one or more embodiments of the disclosed filtration mechanisms or filtration systems may be utilized, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 19C] 19A-19C show diagrams of exemplary flow paths for implementation of continuous filtration in which one or more embodiments of the disclosed filtration mechanisms or filtration systems may be utilized, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20A] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20B] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20C] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20D] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20E] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 20F] 20A-20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 21A] 21A and 21B show diagrams of the operation of an exemplary self-cleaning purification filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 21B] 21A and 21B show diagrams of the operation of an exemplary self-cleaning purification filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 22A] 22A and 22B show diagrams of the operation of another exemplary periodic cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 22B] 22A and 22B show diagrams of the operation of another exemplary periodic cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 23A] 23A and 23B show perspective and exploded views of an exemplary filtering device consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 23B] 23A and 23B show perspective and exploded views of an exemplary filtering device consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 24A] 24A and 24B show cross-sectional views of an exemplary filtration device illustrating exemplary directions of fluid flow paths for both filtering and cleaning operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 24B] 24A and 24B show cross-sectional views of an exemplary filtration device illustrating exemplary directions of fluid flow paths for both filtering and cleaning operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view of an exemplary filtration device having a planar filter media, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26A] 26A-26C show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26B] 26A-26C show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 26C] 26A-26C show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system and method consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 27A] 27A and 27B show diagrams of the operation of one exemplary periodic clean air filtration system, including a filtering operation (FIG. 2A) and a purifying operation (FIG. 27B), consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 27B] 27A and 27B show diagrams of the operation of one exemplary periodic clean air filtration system, including a filtering operation (FIG. 2A) and a purifying operation (FIG. 27B), consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 28A] 28A and 28B show diagrams of the operation of another exemplary periodic clean air filtration system, including a filtering operation (FIG. 28A) and a purifying operation (FIG. 28B), consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 28B] 28A and 28B show diagrams of the operation of another exemplary periodic clean air filtration system, including a filtering operation (FIG. 28A) and a purifying operation (FIG. 28B), consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29A] 29A-29D illustrate an exemplary air purification system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29B] 29A-29D illustrate an exemplary air purification system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29C] 29A-29D illustrate an exemplary air purification system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 29D] 29A-29D illustrate an exemplary air purification system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30] FIG. 30 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplary process for assembling a filter structure, consistent with certain examples of this disclosure. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 illustrates two perspective views of another exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 33A] 33A and 33B show perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 33B] 33A and 33B show perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 34A] 34A and 34B show an example self-cleaning filtration system having a rotary actuator and a linear actuator, respectively, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 34B] 34A and 34B show an example self-cleaning filtration system having a rotary actuator and a linear actuator, respectively, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 35] FIG. 35 illustrates an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system having a grill and collector consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 36A] 36A and 36B show an example autonomous vacuum system implementing an example self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 36B] 36A and 36B show an example autonomous vacuum system implementing an example self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 37A] 37A-37D show various example performance data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 37B] 37A-37D show various example performance data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 37C] 37A-37D show various example performance data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 37D] 37A-37D show various example performance data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 illustrates example operational life data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 illustrates a computer control system programmed or otherwise configured to implement methods provided herein, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. [Diagram 40] FIG. 40 illustrates an exemplary method for self-filtering a media, consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] In various examples, the systems and methods described herein can contribute to extending the life of filters and increasing the efficiency of filters in various applications. For example, by implementing the systems and methods described herein in intake systems, exhaust systems, fuel systems, cooling systems, etc., the effectiveness and performance of the engine can be significantly improved. In another example, the systems and methods described herein can be utilized by emission systems to reduce emissions and improve the performance and life of the emission systems. In another example, applying the systems and methods described herein to automobiles, including off-road vehicles, heavy vehicles, agricultural vehicles, mining vehicles, or construction vehicles, can reduce engine maintenance (e.g., oil changes, repairs) since less such dust and other particles are drawn into the engine. Additional examples, partially described in the Background section, in which the systems and methods described herein may improve filter efficiency and performance include automotive, transportation (e.g., trains, planes, buses, etc.), agriculture, construction, mining, industry and manufacturing, industrial plants, healthcare, utilities, consumer goods, housing, HVAC systems, home appliances (e.g., vacuum cleaners), air purifiers, power generation, oil and gas machinery, chemicals and petrochemicals, paper and paint, process industries, food and beverage, semiconductor and electronic packaging, water / liquid filtration systems, power metallurgy industry, 3D printing industry, heavy vehicles, scientific research facilities, personal protective equipment, food and beverage industry, pharmacology industry, cleaning tools and machines (e.g., industrial vacuums), and other such industries where filtration technology is needed.

[0013] Further advantages of the disclosed technology may include extending the life of filter media, thereby reducing waste and excess filter media usage. Thus, various upflow processing requirements (e.g., during manufacturing, etc.) and downflow processing (e.g., for disposal, etc.) of such filter media are reduced. The systems and methods described herein are highly economical and can provide direct savings in the processing and use of such filters (e.g., fewer replacement parts are required, lower replacement part costs, lower labor costs, or less maintenance time, among others). Furthermore, the systems and methods described herein can be highly economical by providing indirect savings when integrated and used in existing systems and technologies, such as improved efficiency, improved miles per gallon for gasoline / diesel / compressed natural gas or other fuel-based or hybrid automobiles or other automobiles, improved vehicle acceleration and efficiency, reduced engine repairs over time, reduced labor costs, etc., among others. There are related or indirect benefits. In many embodiments, one or more of maintenance costs, parts costs, or labor costs can be significantly reduced by implementing the systems and methods described herein, while at least maintaining the quality or purity of the purified fluid. In another embodiment, the systems and methods described herein can be implemented into current filtration systems by modifying their design. Also, in some implementations, new filtration systems may be designed based on these techniques for any desired application.

[0014] As described in more detail below, improved performance may be characterized by the filter's lifespan, required output, velocity, pressure drop, number of particles of a particular size in the flow, flow rate of the fluid or filter mass, or other parameters at the inlet or outlet. Furthermore, by utilizing the disclosed systematic or automatic self-cleaning filtration system or method, the quality of the purified fluid may be improved or increased during its lifespan compared to the quality of the purified fluid by conventional filtration, since the filter media is frequently cleaned as follows. The quality of the filtered fluid may be characterized by the concentration of particles, or the visual quality of the inlet and outlet flow.

[0015] In some cases, the present disclosure includes systems and methods for self-cleaning filter media, removing particles (e.g., ash, dust, dirt, debris, granules, lint, pathogens, mold, pollen, powder, soot, etc.) from the filter media before, during, or after the filtering operation. In some cases, the systems or methods described herein may be utilized during filtering operations, with or without interrupting the filtering operation. Furthermore, in some cases, the systems or methods described herein may also include or involve systems and methods configured to externally clean the filter, for example, systems or methods that may be constructed as separate systems (e.g., systems for cleaning used filters, etc.) to specifically clean used or dirty filters, or systems or methods that may be implemented on other systems (e.g., those implemented on or through air cleaners, those implemented on or through vehicle intake boxes, those implemented on or through vehicle exhaust systems, vacuum cleaners, etc.) based on the disclosed technology, or that may be utilized to clean the filter.

[0016] The various self-cleaning systems and methods described herein include various techniques for external and self-cleaning of the filter via one or more mechanical, chemical, or radiation techniques that can clean the filter, extend its useful operating time, increase efficiency, and improve the quality of the filtered fluid without the need to physically replace the filter media, among other features and advantages described or inherent herein. In some cases, mechanical techniques may include applying vibration to the filter or filter housing, either directly or indirectly. As used herein, "shaking" (as well as other tenses of "shaking" such as "shake", "shakes", "shook", and "shaken") includes any of the following motions: agitation, pulsating, bumping, convulsing, disturbing, flapping, flickering, fluttering, hitting, impacting, jarring, jerking, jolting, moving, vibration, palpitating, perturbing, pulsating, pulsing, quaking, rattling, pulsating ... The term may refer to one or more of the following: attling, resonating, reverberating, rippling, rocking, shaking, shivering, shuddering, stimulating, swaying, swinging, throbbing, tottering, trembling, tremoring, undulating, upsetting, vibrating, waggling, wave, wiggling, or whipping, or any other mechanical motion that may be repetitive in some respects, non-repetitive in some respects, periodic, aperiodic, near equilibrium, near equilibrium, or in one or more directions.Applying vibrations to the filter, for example, mechanically, electromechanically, by other sound or wave energy, or via other techniques described herein, including, but not limited to, applying vibrations to the filter media, vibrating, striking, impacting, moving, scrubbing, or mechanically impacting the filter media, or sound waves / waves / any impact of energy to release undesirable particles from the filter media. In some cases, applying vibrations may refer to the propagation of mechanical waves, such as mechanical waves having high frequencies (e.g., frequencies may be from about 1 kHz to about 500 kHz) and low amplitudes (e.g., 10 nanometers to 100 micrometers). In some cases, mechanical techniques may include reversing the flow direction, which may include mechanically flowing fluid from the clean side of the filter toward the dirty side of the filter (e.g., the side of the filter where particles accumulate) to promote the release of undesirable particles from the filter media. In some cases, chemical or radiative techniques may be used to sterilize the filter media, such as to destroy pathogens, particles, or undesirable chemical compounds present in, on, or near the filter media. For example, chemical techniques may include carrying out chemical reactions in, on, or near the filter media. For example, radiative techniques may include application of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, thermal radiation, and the like to or near the filter media, or to the path of the flow. In some cases, the system may be equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and other such techniques to determine or optimize the cleaning and filtering operations. The filter media may be cleaned once or frequently by removing particles (e.g., diffusing, penetrating, attaching, adhering, accumulating, capturing, etc.) that have accumulated on the filter media before, during, or after the filtering operation (depending on the application). In some cases, a precleaner mechanism may be used to separate some particles from the fluid before filtering by the filtering system. In some applications, the filtering system may transmit or receive data to a user, which may be another device, a system, a controller, or a human.In some cases, self-cleaning filtration can be used in conjunction with other purification techniques, as well as other techniques, to remove or sterilize, destroy or kill pathogens that have accumulated in the filter media. According to implementations herein, the time interval between purification operations can be determined based on each application, as described elsewhere herein.

[0017] Filter implementation example 1A, 1B, and 1C are diagrams illustrating three exemplary filter media / filter implementations or shapes consistent with examples of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 1A shows a flat filter 100A. As shown, the flat filter 100A includes a clean side 110A and a dirty side 120A. The flat filter 100A (also known as a "flat panel filter") may be commonly used in HVAC systems because it is flat and may be constructed from disposable panels. The flat filter 100A, as used in HVAC systems, may be constructed from fiberglass, which may be the least expensive option available for HVAC systems. The flat filter 100A, as used in HVAC systems, may be porous, allowing air to pass freely while accumulating larger particles. A flat filter such as the flat filter 100A may also be placed in a box connected to the throttle body with piping work when used in a fuel-injected vehicle. The zigzag shape of the flat filter 100A increases the surface area of ​​the filter media compared to the overall footprint of the flat filter 100A. The flat filter 100A may be used in automobiles, vacuum cleaners, air cleaners, and the like. The flat filter 100A may be used in other applications such as automotive, transportation (e.g., trains, planes, buses, etc.), agriculture, construction, mining, industry and manufacturing, industrial plants, healthcare, utilities, consumer goods, residential, HVAC systems, home appliances (e.g., vacuum cleaners), air purifiers, power generation, oil and gas machinery, chemicals and petrochemicals, paper and paint, process industries, food and beverage, semiconductor and electronics, packaging, water / liquid filtration systems, power metallurgical industry, 3D printing industry, heavy vehicles, scientific research facilities, personal protective equipment, food and beverage industry, pharmacology industry, purification tools and machines (e.g., industrial vacuum), and other such industries where filtration technology is needed.

[0019] 1B illustrates a cylindrical filter 100B. As shown, the cylindrical filter 100B includes a clean side 110B and a dirty side 120B. By way of example, a large automobile may use a cylindrical air filter such as the cylindrical filter 100B, which often has a diameter between 100 millimeters and 400 millimeters.

[0020] 1C illustrates a conical filter 100C. As illustrated, the conical filter 100C includes a clean side 110C and a dirty side 120C. High performance automobiles may use conical air filters such as the conical filter 100C. In some cases, the conical filter 100C includes a clean side 120C and a dirty side 110C.

[0021] According to various examples, the geometric shape of the filter media can be flat, cylindrical, conical, or any other geometric shape depending on the application, use, and space allotted to the filtration system. While various illustrative examples are shown and described herein, these implementations and the drawings herein are provided for illustrative purposes as representative examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosed technology and innovations herein.

[0022] Filtration operation example 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a conventional or direct flow filtration operation (also known as a filtering operation) of a filter medium 220 (which may be the same as or similar to any of the other filter media discussed herein, e.g., any of filter media 100A-C), consistent with an example of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 2, the filtering operation begins with a main inlet 210, which is the inlet of raw fluid flow 215 that travels into the filter medium 220 from a dirty side 221 of the filter medium 220. The filter medium 220 may be in physical contact with a filter housing 223 and a reinforcing structure 224.

[0023] When the raw fluid flow reaches the filter media, the raw fluid flow 215 may leave an accumulation of particles 225 on the dirty side 221 of the filter media 220. The accumulated particles 225 may be at different depths within the filter media (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. 6 ) depending on the size of each of the accumulated particles 225, the properties of the filter media 220 (e.g., pore size), or the properties of the raw fluid flow 215 (e.g., velocity, direction, type of particle, charge, etc.).

[0024] After filtering the raw fluid flow 215 and accumulated particles 225 in the filter media 220, a clean fluid 235 exits the clean side 222 of the filter media 220. The clean fluid flow 235 may contain reduced particles compared to the raw fluid flow 215. The clean fluid flow 235 may exit through a main outlet 230 providing the clean fluid flow 235 (e.g., relative to an engine, or any other system as described in the Background section).

[0025] In this illustrated example, during filtration operation, the flow is from the dirty side 221 (at the bottom) of the filter media 220 to the clean side 222 (at the top) of the filter media 220. The raw fluid 215 enters the system via the main inlet 210. The raw fluid 215 passes through the filter media 220, which traps, destroys, or kills particles to purify the raw fluid 215 into a purified fluid flow 235.

[0026] The main outlet 230 may span the entire clean side 222 of the filter media 220. The main inlet 210 may span the entire dirty side 221 of the filter media 220. It should be understood that the inlets, outlets, and piping shown herein are examples of the relative locations of the inlets, outlets, and piping to the filter media, and do not necessarily represent the geometry of the inlets, outlets, and piping.

[0027] Example of self-cleaning operation 3 is a diagram 300 illustrating an exemplary automatic self-cleaning operation of a filter medium 320 (which may be the same or similar to any of the other filter media discussed herein, e.g., filter medium 220), consistent with an example of the present disclosure. As previously discussed, one or more mechanical, chemical, or radiation techniques may be used to clean the filter medium. FIG. 3 illustrates the use of two mechanical techniques: (i) application of vibration and (ii) flow direction reversal.

[0028] 3, fluid flow 335 enters filter media 320 from the clean side 322 of filter media 320. This reverse flow (flow is from the clean side 322 of filter 320 to the dirty side 321 of filter 320) passes through filter media 320 in the opposite direction to the direction described during filtering operation with respect to FIG 2. Reverse flow 335 may not be implemented in some applications.

[0029] As further shown in FIG. 3, the filter media 320 may be subjected to vibration as shown at 340. In some cases, the vibration at 340 may occur while the reverse flow is occurring. In some cases, the vibration at 340 may occur before or after the reverse flow is occurring. Such reverse flow and vibration 340 aspects may remove accumulated particles 325 from the dirty side 321 of the filter media 320, thereby generating a dirty flow 315 that leaves the filter media 320 via the outlet 310. The example shown in FIG. 300 includes at least one vibration action, which may include one or more of the various types of vibration actions disclosed elsewhere herein. According to some implementations, the filter media 320 may be disposed within a filter housing 323 or a reinforcing structure 234 during a cleaning operation.

[0030] For such examples involving the act of applying vibrations to the filter media 320, the filter media 320 may be manipulated or locked in such a manner that the filter media 320 is vibrated (e.g., vibrated, oscillated, swayed, impacted, pulsated, struck, moved, rotated, translated, scrubbed, impacted, resonated, ultrasonically, or otherwise impacted with wave or similar energy) directly or indirectly in any of six degrees of freedom (DOF) in space, relative to a fixed coordinate system, or any combination thereof (e.g., three translational and three rotational degrees of freedom, etc.) to enhance or facilitate the removal (e.g., release or removal) of accumulated particles 325 from the filter media. The application of vibration 340 may be applied in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, periodic single steps, multiple steps, for a desired duration, at a desired frequency or frequency range, at a desired velocity (subsonic, or supersonic, or ultrasonic), and at a desired amplitude (from nanometers to tens of millimeters), depending on the application. In some cases, applying vibration 340 can include any impact, impulse force, shock, continuous or intermittent vibration, etc., where the force is applied as a function of factors such as a target duration based on the particular particles to be removed (e.g., size, weight, composition, chemical composition or properties, structure, mechanical bonds, charge, etc.). In some cases, applying vibration 340 can generate mechanical waves at high frequencies (e.g., 1 kHz to 500 kHz, etc.) and low amplitudes (e.g., a few nanometers to a few micrometers). In some cases, applying vibration 340 can be applied directly or indirectly to the filter housing 322 or filter media 320 by any intermediate tool that applies a vibration force. Further, in some cases, the frequency, magnitude, and amplitude of the applied vibrating force or displacement that causes the application of vibration 340 may be random, constant, repetitive, or ramped up and down over a range of frequencies, magnitudes, and amplitudes (e.g., the actuator may vibrate at frequencies ranging from about 0.01 Hz to about 1 kHz, from about 1 kHz to about 500 kHz, from nanometers to millimeters, depending on the application, particles, or other parameters described herein). Additionally, in some cases, the application of vibration 340 may be force controlled or displacement controlled, or both.

[0031] In some cases, the filter media 320 may be secured or held by the filter housing 322 or the reinforcing structure 324 in a manner such that the filter media 320 does not have relative movement with respect to the reinforcing structure 324 or the filter housing 323 in the region where it is attached. In some cases, the filter housing 323 is a structure that holds the filter media 320. The reinforcing structure 324 is a structure that reinforces the filter media 320, provides stability and durability to the filter media 320, and reduces wear, creep, buckling, etc. of the filter media 320 during cleaning operations when the filter media 320 is subjected to vibration 340. In some cases, the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 324 may be one integral structure. Additionally, in other cases, the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 324 may be two or more separate components. The filter medium 320 may be attached to the reinforcing structure 324 or the filter housing 323 by compression, adhesive, rubber, or any other technique so that the filter medium 320 does not have any relative movement, displacement, or sliding with respect to the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 324 during the cleaning operation. In some cases, the elastic modulus of the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 324 may be high enough to provide sufficient rigidity to the filter medium. The stiffness or elastic modulus of the filter housing 322 or the reinforcing structure 324 may be relatively higher than that of the filter medium 320 to prevent wear, creep, buckling, distortion, tearing, damage, etc. in the filter medium 320 when a load is applied during the cleaning operation. Here, for example, the elastic modulus of the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 234 may be on the order of about 1 MPa to 700 GPa depending on the material of the filter housing 323 and the reinforcing structure 234. The reinforcing structure 324 or the filter housing 323 may be made from a metal material, a plastic material, a polymeric material, a composite material, or any other structural material, or a combination of materials. In some cases, it may be important that the vibrational force is not applied directly to the filter media 320 (e.g., because the filter media 320 may buckle).Thus, a vibrational force may be applied (eg, by an actuator) to the reinforcement structure 324 or the filter housing 323, or at least one other component (eg, rubber, polymer, etc.) covering the filter media 320 at the contact area.

[0032] In some cases, the vibration application 340 may be the result of a vibration application force applied by one or more actuators during a cleaning operation. The actuators may apply a force to the filter housing 323 or the reinforcing structure 324, which causes the filter media 320 to vibrate. In some cases, the component of the vibration application force applied in a direction normal to the surface of the dirty side 321 of the filter media 320 may be zero or negative (e.g., where a direction outward relative to the surface normal of the dirty side 321 of the filter media 320 is considered a positive direction) to reduce accumulation of particles 325 within the filter media 320 by diffusing or penetrating into the filter media 320. For example, if the net force applied by the actuators to the filter housing 323 / reinforcement structure 324 / filter media 320 is perpendicular to the normal vector of the surface of the dirty side 321 of the filter media 320, the component of the force normal to the surface of the filter media 320 is zero (the component of the force by the actuators on the filter media 320 is zero normal to the dirty side 321 of the filter media 320). As a result of this condition, the accumulated particles 325 cannot diffuse / permeate back into the filter media 320 by applying vibration 340. Thus, among other benefits, the life, filtration efficiency, or performance of the filter media 320 may be increased. In some cases, the component of the net acceleration, such as by applying vibration 340 in the normal direction of the dirty surface of the filter media 320, applied to the unwanted from the filter media 320 during the cleaning operation, for example, to minimize the accumulation of particles 325 on the filter media 320 via particles 325 diffusing into the filter media 320, may be zero or negative.

[0033] In some cases, reverse flow 325 may be applied to accelerate or improve the efficiency of the purification operation. Reverse flow 325 may be applied before, during, or after the vibration application process 340, depending on the application. In some cases, reverse flow 335 may not be applied, depending on the application.

[0034] Cross section of an example of filter media 4A-4D respectively show cross-sectional views 400A-400D of three implementations of cross-sectional aspects of an exemplary filter related to, e.g., filters and structures, filtering operations, and particle removal processes or operations consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. One or more components of FIGS. 400A-400D may be the same as or similar to other components of the filters shown and described herein, e.g., filter media 420 may be the same as or similar to filter media 320 of FIG. 3.

[0035] FIG. 4A shows a cross-sectional view 400A including the filter medium 420 with a filter housing 441 and a reinforcing structure 442. The filter housing 441 and the reinforcing structure 442 may be made of structural mertiles such as metal, plastic, polymer, rubber, or composite materials. One function of the filter housing 441 and the reinforcing structure 442 may be to provide stability (e.g., structural stability) to the filter medium 420 during the cleaning operation. Another function of the filter housing 441 and the reinforcing structure 442 may be to hold the filter medium 420 securely so that there is no or minimal relative movement on the attached area between the filter medium 420 and the filter housing 441 and the reinforcing structure 442 during the cleaning operation (e.g., when the filter medium 420 is subjected to vibration). The filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442 may transmit the force / mechanical wave / displacement applied by the actuator (not shown here) by the filter medium 420 during the cleaning operation, which may dislodge particles from the filter medium 420. The reinforcing structure 442 can provide additional structural stability to the filter media, which can improve energy transfer through the filter media 420 during cleaning operations while preventing or reducing wear, creep, tearing, buckling, damage, and rupture (e.g., due to vibration). The filter media 420 can be securely attached to the filter housing 441 or reinforcing structure 442 by adhesives, compression, rubber, and the like. The filter media 420 can be securely attached to the filter housing 441 or reinforcing structure 442 or constructed as an integral section during manufacturing. Applied vibration forces that can vibrate the filter media 420 during cleaning operations can be transferred by the filter housing 441 or reinforcing structure 442. The geometry, shape, construction, and materials of the filter housing 441 and reinforcing structure 442 can depend on the application and design requirements.

[0036] During cleaning operations, the actuator can apply a vibrational force 440 to the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442 either directly (e.g., the actuator is attached to the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442, etc.) or indirectly (e.g., by electromagnetic force, etc.) to reduce wear rates, creep rates, prevent buckling, and minimize damage to the filter media 420. As a result of the vibrational force 440, the filter media 420 can vibrate when the filter media 420 is rigidly connected to the filter housing 441 and the reinforcing structure 442.

[0037] 4B and 4C are cross-sectional views 400B and 400C, respectively, illustrating two implementations related to filtering and removal of particles processes or purification operations. More specifically, FIG. 4B shows an exemplary filtering operation and FIG. 4C shows an exemplary purification operation, consistent with examples of the present disclosure.

[0038] 4B, during a filtering operation, a raw fluid flow 410 containing particles 415 enters an inlet (bottom) and travels toward a dirty side 405 of a filter media 420. When the raw fluid flow 410 reaches the filter media 420, an accumulation of particles 415 forms on the dirty side 405 of the filter 420. After such filtering of the particles 415 from the raw fluid flow 410, a clean fluid flow 430 exits from a clean side 425 of the filter media 420, and then the clean fluid flow 430 exits the filtering system and exits from an outlet (top).

[0039] Referring to FIG. 4C, the self-cleaning operation begins with a reverse flow 460 starting at the inlet (top) and passing from the clean side 425 of the filter media 420 into the filter media 465. During such a cleaning operation, the reverse flow 460 passes through the filter media 420 from the clean side 425 to the dirty side 405, and the filter media 420 is subjected to vibration (440) by a force applied to the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442. The reverse flow 460 and the vibration application 440 can dislodge accumulated particles 415 from the dirty side 405 of the filter media 420 and generate a dirty flow that exits the filter media 420 via the outlet (bottom). The inlet for the cleaning operation may be the same as the outlet for the filtering operation in some applications, or may have at least some common paths. The outlet for the cleaning operation may be the same as the inlet for the filtering operation in some applications, or may have at least some common paths.

[0040] 4C shows a cross-section of filter media 420 with particles 415 attached during a normal filtration process (e.g., as shown with respect to FIG. 4B). In some cases, to dislodge particles 415, filter media 420 may be vibrated 440 by a force (which may come from an actuator, such as a physical, wave or energy) applied to filter housing 441 or reinforcing structure 442, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. Further, in some cases, such an external force from an actuator may be applied to filter media 420 during a cleaning operation, thereby vibrating filter media 420.

[0041] 4C , the direction of flow can be reversed (compared to the normal filtration direction) to produce a reverse flow 460 as dirty flow from the clean side 425 of the filter media 420 to the dirty side 405 of the filter media 420 and out of the filter media 420. In other cases (not shown), the filter media 420 can be reversed such that the flow moves from the dirty side 405 of the filter media 420 to the clean side 425 of the filter media 420 while keeping the relative flow direction the same (compared to the normal filtration direction).

[0042] In some cases, as shown in FIG. 4B, during the filtration operation process, the fluid flows (push / pull) from the dirty side 405 of the filter media 420 toward the clean side 425. In the example of the cleaning operation of FIG. 4C, the fluid flows (push / pull) from the clean side 425 of the filter media 420 to the dirty side 405. According to examples of the disclosed technology, a source for generating flow (e.g., a jet pulse, a motor, a fan, a blower, a pressure difference between the clean side and the dirty side 405 of the filter media, any other such mechanism or system, etc.) can be implemented or utilized on either side of the filter media 420 to generate a desired flow direction. In some cases, one flow source can generate both forward flow (e.g., flows 410 and 430) and reverse flow (e.g., flow 460). In some cases, multiple flow sources can generate forward flow (e.g., flows 410 and 430) and reverse flow (e.g., flow 460).

[0043] With reference to FIG. 4D, the cross section can represent that the filter medium 420 is placed in an XY plane (considering XYZ coordinates 499), with the dirty side 405 of the filter 420 in the negative Z direction and the clean side 425 in the positive Z direction. To reduce the accumulation (for example) diffusion of particles, especially small-sized particles (on the order of a few nanometers to micrometers), into the filter medium 420, the net relative acceleration and velocity of the particles with respect to the filter medium 420 in the Z direction can be zero or negative. To meet this condition, the frequency, direction, and magnitude of the force that applies the vibrations can be adjusted accordingly during the cleaning operation. In some cases, the cleaning operation can include vibrating the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442. In other cases, the cleaning operation can apply vibrations to the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442 while a reverse flow 460 exists.

[0044] Referring to FIG. 4D, the cross section can include the filter medium 420, the filter housing 441, and the reinforcing structure 442. The Z-axis (see axis 499) is defined to be locally perpendicular to the surface of the filter medium 420, with the dirty side 405 of the filter 420 in the negative Z-direction and the clean side 425 in the positive Z-direction. In some cases, the actuator can generate mechanical waves having high frequencies (e.g., about 1 kHz to 500 kHz) and low amplitudes (such as a few nanometers to a few micrometers), which can be transmitted to the filter medium via the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442 along the X-direction. The transmitted mechanical waves can vibrate the filter medium 420, so that particles 415 can be removed from the dirty side 405 of the filter medium 420.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 4E, in some cases, the dirty side 420E of the filter media 401E may face downward (e.g., toward the ground or the center of the Earth). In some cases, the filter media 401E is vibrated such that the applied force has one component in the Z direction (see coordinate system 499, where such Z axis is defined as being perpendicular to the ground (where the ground is parallel to the XY plane), with the positive Z direction defined from bottom to top, such that the positive Z direction is defined as being in the positive direction of the Earth's gravity). During a cleaning operation, the component of the net force applied to the filter media 420E in the Z direction (e.g., Fz 493 in FIG. 4D) may be zero or positive to reduce particle accumulation in the filter media 420 through particle diffusion into the filter media 420E. As the filter media moves toward the Earth, the net acceleration of the particle due to the actuator and the reverse flow in the Z direction is equal to a + b (where a is the acceleration due to the actuator and b is the acceleration due to the reverse flow) and is less than g (where g is the acceleration of gravity of the Earth (9.81 m / s 2 ) thereby reducing particle build-up in the filter media 401 via particle diffusion into the filter media 401.

[0046] When the vibration application force is repeatedly applied to the filter housing 441 or the reinforcing structure 442, the frequency of the net load applied in the Z direction can be set lower than λ(|g+α| / 2X), where X is the maximum distance the filter media 420 moves during half a cycle of vibration. In some cases, g can be set as an upper limit of the acceleration upon application of the vibration. In some cases, g+a can be set as an upper limit of the acceleration upon application of the vibration. In some cases, g+ad, where d is the amount of acceleration of the particle lost due to drag, can be set as an upper limit of the acceleration upon application of the vibration. These various possible conditions can significantly extend the life of the filter media 420, especially when the displacement of the filter media 420 is on the order of millimeters, or the frequency of the applied load is relatively low (less than 500 Hz), or the size of the particles is relatively small (e.g., on the order of nanometers or micrometers). For example, consider a situation where the dirty side 491 of the filter media 420 faces the ground and the actuator is placed on the dirty side 405. The net force applied by the actuator is then from the dirty side 405 to the clean side 425 (in the positive Z-axis direction). However, there is no limit to the frequency of the force components applied in the X and Y directions, and the frequency of the applied load can be very high (e.g., greater than about 500 Hz in some cases) when the amplitude of the displacement is very small (e.g., on the order of a few nanometers to a few micrometers in some cases).

[0047] 4E, the flat filter media 401E is vibrated along a longitudinal direction 470E of the filter media during a cleaning operation. By vibrating the filter media 40IE along a longitudinal direction 470E, the direction of vibration is perpendicular to the dirty side 420E of the filter media 40IE to reduce particle accumulation in the filter media 40IE via particle diffusion into the filter media 40IE.

[0048] 4F and 4G, cylindrical filter 402F and conical filter 403G may be vibrated along central axes 470F and 470G, respectively, to reduce particle buildup caused by particles diffusing into filter media 402F and 403G, respectively.

[0049] Waveform Example 5 illustrates various exemplary waveforms that may be applied as a process to impart vibration to a filter medium (e.g., any of the filter media described herein, such as filter medium 420 of FIG. 4D) to effect self-cleaning of the filter consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. As previously discussed, imparting vibration to the filter medium may, in some cases, be periodic, as illustrated in FIG. 5. As further previously discussed, imparting vibration to the filter medium may, in some cases, be multi-stage, as further illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0050] In general, the filter medium may be subjected to vibration from one or more directions at one or more frequencies by one or more sources. The characteristics of the vibration applied to the filter medium (e.g., frequency, magnitude, amplitude, duration, wavelength, step, speed, peak-to-peak distance, modal shape, mode of vibration, etc.) may be determined based on each application, as discussed elsewhere herein. For example, to remove some particles, the vibration may be applied in a low frequency range (e.g., between about 0.01 sHz and about 10 sHz, or between about 10 Hz and about 100 Hz, or between about 100 Hz and about 1000 Hz, or any subcombination of such lower and upper bound ranges, etc.), and to remove some particles, the load may be applied at a higher frequency (e.g., on the order of tens of thousands of Hz, e.g., between about 1 kHz and about 10 kHz, or between about 10 kHz and about 100 kHz, or between about 100 kHz and about 500 kHz, or between about 20 kHz and about 40 kHz, or any subcombination of such lower and upper bound ranges, etc.). In some cases, the actuator may sweep a wide range of frequencies to cover both low and high frequency loading. In addition, in some cases, different types of actuators may be utilized to cover a set of frequency ranges to improve the performance of the cleaning operation. Furthermore, in some cases, the application of low and high frequency (e.g., 0.01 kHz to lkHz, lkHz to 10 kHz, 10 kHz to 10 kHz, over 100 kHz, etc.) vibrations may be applied to the filter media simultaneously or in any other order, sequence, timing, etc. variations of both orders, sequences, timing, etc. In addition, in some cases, all such characteristics of the application of vibrations can be adjusted, including on the fly (during operation), via artificial intelligence or machine learning techniques, including techniques that measure the flow of particles removed from the dirty side of the filter media during the cleaning operation (e.g., via sensors or other detection and monitoring mechanisms). In some cases, the duration of the cleaning operation or other factors / parameters may be determined by the end user. In some cases, the data may be transmitted to other devices or users as notifications to report the status of the cleaning operation or the filtration system.

[0051] In some cases, when the frequency of vibration is relatively high (e.g., on the order of about 100 or tens of thousands of Hz) or when the displacement is relatively small (e.g., on the order of 500 micrometers or less, or more), the vibration may be applied continuously to the filter housing or reinforcing structure, or the vibration may be applied continuously to the filter media, housing, etc., to improve the efficiency of the purification operation and extend the life of other components.

[0052] More specifically, referring to FIG. 5, various exemplary waveforms applied as a process of applying vibration to the filter medium to perform self-cleaning of the filter include three main steps. In operation 1, the application of vibrations of low frequency (0.01 Hz to 1000 Hz) and high amplitude (100 micrometers to millimeters) may be applied to the filter medium (e.g., via a filter housing or a reinforcing structure). In operation 1, some particles may be more easily removed from the filter medium. In operation 2, vibrations of high frequency (e.g., 0.5 kHz to 1 kHz, 1 kHz to 10 kHz, 100 kHz to 100 kHz, more than 100 kHz, etc.) and low amplitude (e.g., 10 nanometers to 100 micrometers) can be applied to the filter medium. In operation 1, some particles may be more easily removed from the filter medium. In operation 3, a superposition of vibrations of low and high frequency and low and high amplitude can be applied to the filter medium. In operation 3, various sizes of particles, such as smaller, medium, and larger, may be removed from the filter media. In some cases, but not necessarily, a reverse flow may be applied to the filter media before, during, or after vibration to aid in removing various sizes of particles.

[0053] Examples of filter fibers in filter media FIG. 6 shows a diagram 600 of an exemplary filter fiber of a filter medium that accumulates various particles, consistent with exemplary embodiments of some examples of the present disclosure. Four filtration mechanisms are shown in the diagram 600 and are classified by size. Specifically, the filtration mechanisms by size (largest to smallest) are sieving / straining mechanism, impact mechanism, intercepting mechanism, and diffusion mechanism. Particles of different sizes are accumulated by different mechanisms (e.g., filter fibers) in the filter medium. As shown, the largest particles included in the diagram 600, i.e., sieving / straining particles, do not penetrate the filter medium, but instead accumulate on the surface of the filter medium. Similarly, as shown, some particles included in the diagram 600 that are filtered by impact do not substantially penetrate the filter medium, but instead accumulate on the surface of the filter medium. As shown, the smallest particles included in the diagram 600 are filtered by intercept and diffusion mechanisms, penetrate the filter medium, and accumulate at deeper points in the filter medium, and the diffusion particles penetrate deeper into the filter medium than the intercept particles. The accumulation of small sized particles that are filtered by diffusion and interception mechanisms can clog the filter media over time, thereby reducing the life and efficiency of the filter media.

[0054] Further examples of self-cleaning filtration systems 7A and 7B are two diagrams illustrating an example of a self-cleaning filtration system, i.e., a flat filter 700A and a cylindrical filter 700B, respectively, which may be fixed relative to an XYZ coordinate system, consistent with an example of the present disclosure. The example self-cleaning filtration systems of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B may be the same as or similar to any of the filters described herein. Referring to the example of FIG. 7A, the main frame 705 may be fixed relative to a reference XYZ coordinate system. In some cases, during the cleaning operation, the filter housing 715 or the reinforcing structure 720 may be subjected to vibration by an actuator 725 or 726. The actuator 725 or 726 may be connected to the main frame 705, the filter housing 715, the reinforcing structure 720, or the sealing element 706. The actuator 725 or 726 may directly apply a force that applies vibration to the filter medium 701. For example, the actuator 725 or 726 may apply a force that indirectly applies vibration to the filter media 701 through physical contact with the filter housing 715 or the reinforcing structure 720 (e.g., the actuator hits) or directly impacts or strikes the filter housing 715 or the reinforcing structure 720, which may result in vibration of the filter media 701. In some cases, the actuator 725 or 726 does not have any physical contact with the filter media 701 because the filter media 701 may be delicate (e.g., prone to tearing). In some cases, the actuator 725 does not have physical contact with any of the filter housing 715, the reinforcing structure 720, the main frame 705, the sealing element 706, or the filter media 701, and instead the actuator 725 or 726 is connected via waves, electromagnetic impulses, or the like. Non-physical contact methods have several advantages over direct methods, such as less noise, less wear, and less maintenance, among other advantages.

[0055] The actuator 725 or 726 may apply a force that imparts vibrations at high frequency (e.g., 1 kHz to 100 kHz) and low amplitude (e.g., 10 nanometers to 100 micrometers). In such a case, the actuator 725 or 726 may be attached to the filter housing 715 by adhesive, welding, or the like, or may be integrated into the filter housing 715 and the reinforcing structure 720 as one compartment, to efficiently transmit the vibrations to the filter media. For example, the actuator 715 may be made of a piezoelectric or shape memory alloy, or may be an ultrasonic transducer.

[0056] In some cases, as shown in FIG. 7A (and also in FIG. 7B), the flat filter 700A may have several resilient compartments 735 (790 in FIG. 7B) that may constrain the movement of the filter housing 715 (770 in FIG. 7B), the reinforcing structure 720 (775 in FIG. 7B), and the filter media 701 (750 in FIG. 7B). In some cases, the resilient compartments 735 may serve to form hard stops for applying vibrations to the filter housing 715 (770 in FIG. 7B). In some cases, the resilient compartments 735 may serve to prevent leakage between the dirty side and the clean side of the filter media 701 (750 in FIG. 7B). , a sealing element 706 (760 in FIG. 7B) can be used between the components (e.g., filter housing 715 and main frame 705). The elastic compartment 735 can be made from one or more of rubber or metal springs, etc., to allow the filter housing 715 and reinforcing structure 720 to vibrate during the purification operation. In some cases, the elastic compartment 735 can be particularly important when the vibration frequency is low (e.g., 0.01 Hz to 1000 Hz) and the vibration amplitude is relatively high (e.g., 100 micrometers to 10 millimeters).

[0057] In some cases, the main frame 705 can include multiple filter media 701, with each filter media of the filter media 701 having corresponding components including one or more of a sealing element 706, a corresponding filter housing 715, a reinforcing structure 720, one or more actuators 725 or 726, one or more resilient elements 735, etc. The multiple filter media 701 (and corresponding components) can be arranged within the main frame 705 in any suitable pattern, such as a grid or array. Having multiple filter media 701 can present several advantages, such as allowing a first filter media of the filter media 701 to be operational while a second filter media of the filter media 701 is not operational (e.g., for cleaning, for replacement, for maintenance, for a breakdown, etc.).

[0058] 7B shows a cylindrical filter 700B. The cylindrical filter 700B may include one or more of a main frame 755, which may be fixed relative to a reference coordinate system XYZ, a filter media 750, a filter housing 770, a reinforcing structure 775, a sealing element 760, an actuator 780, and a resilient compartment 790. Similar to FIG. 7A, during a cleaning operation, the actuator 780 may apply a force to the filter media 750, directly or indirectly, with or without physical contact with any of the other components of the cylindrical filter 700B.

[0059] 7C and 7D, in some cases, conical filters 700C and 700D may be utilized in place of cylindrical filter 700B. For example, conical filters 700C and 700D may be utilized in place of cylindrical filter 700 for application-specific reasons.

[0060] 7C, in some cases, the larger side 782 of the conical filter 700C may face the ground (e.g., toward the center of the earth). In such cases, the dirty side 784 may be on the inside of the conical filter 700C. Thus, during a cleaning operation, the reverse flow direction 787 may be from the outside 783 of the conical filter 700C toward or into the inside 784 of the conical filter 700C. Thus, while vibrations are applied to the conical filter 700C during a cleaning operation, particles may fall toward the ground.

[0061] In some cases, other arrangements / configurations may be utilized, such as the conical filter 700D of FIG. 7D. As shown, the smaller side 792 of the conical filter may face the ground, and the dirty side 793 may be the outside 793. Thus, during cleaning operations, the reverse flow direction may be from the inside 794 of the conical filter 700D toward the outside 793 of the conical filter 700D. In such a case, particles may fall toward the ground while vibration is applied to the conical filter 700D during cleaning operations. Thus, this configuration (e.g., compared to a conventional cylindrical filter 750) may improve cleaning operations, as particles may be downward while vibration is applied to the conical filter 700D during cleaning operations.

[0062] In some cases, the filter media may be permanently secured, held, connected, bonded, etc. to one or more other components, such as a filter housing, a filter reinforcing structure, a sealing component, etc. Thus, after the life of the filter media, when the filter media needs to be replaced, the components attached to the filter media may also be replaced with the filter media. In some cases, the filter media may not be permanently secured to any other components. Some examples of such configurations are shown in Figures 8B, 8C, and 8D.

[0063] 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, and 8F are top perspective views of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system. The exemplary self-cleaning filtration system of FIGS. 8A-8F may be the same as or similar to any of the filters described herein (e.g., filter 700A of FIG. 7A). Referring to FIG. 8A, an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system 800A is shown, including a filter mainframe 825, a filter medium 815, various actuators 830, 831, 832 (e.g., solenoid actuators, magnetic actuators, piezoelectric (piezoelectric) actuators, ultrasonic actuators, or any such similar actuators or force delivery mechanisms, waves or energy sources, etc.), a filter housing 810, a reinforcing structure 805, and a sealing element 820. Vibrational forces may be applied (directly or indirectly) to the filter medium 815 via actuators or sources. In some cases, the filter media 815 is securely attached to the filter housing 810 or filter reinforcement structure 805 by adhesives, compressive forces, or the like, so that there is no relative movement or slippage between the filter media 815 and the filter housing 810 or filter reinforcement structure 805, particularly at the attached area, line, or point during cleaning operations. Referring to FIG. 8A, the main frame 825 may be structured, positioned, or attached such that the filter media 815 may be subjected to various loads, forces, energies, or the like, or vibrations, which may be applied continuously (e.g., using piezoelectric actuators), repeatedly, or at various ascending or descending ranges of displacement, frequency, force, or type or manner of thrust or application, by actuators 830-832.

[0064] In some cases, the filter housing 810, the reinforcing structure 805, the sealing element 820, and the filter medium 815 may be assembled as one piece. In such a case, when replacing the filter medium 815, one component (including the filter housing 810, the reinforcing structure 805, the sealing element 820, and the filter medium 815) can be replaced, but the main frame 825 and the actuators 830-832 may not need to be replaced (if they are functional). An exemplary diagram of such a filter with a one component structure is shown as filter 800B in FIG. 8B. For example, this configuration can be used when the filter medium 815 is relatively small, such as in an autonomous vacuum cleaner.

[0065] In some cases, the reinforcing structure 805, the sealing element 820, and the filter media 815 may be assembled as one piece. In such a case, when replacing the filter media 815, one component (including the reinforcing structure 805, the sealing element 820, and the filter media 815) may be replaced, but the main frame 825, the filter housing 810, a portion of the reinforcing structure 805, and the actuators 830-832 may not need to be replaced (if they are functional). An exemplary diagram of such a filter having a one component structure is shown as filter 800C in FIG. 8C.

[0066] In some cases, either (i) the sealing element 820 and the filter media 815, or (ii) only the filter media 815 may need to be replaced after the life of the filter media 815, while the main frame 825, the filter housing 810, the reinforcement structure 805, and the actuators 830-832 may not need to be replaced (if they are functional). An example of such a filter is shown in FIG. 8D as filter 800D.

[0067] 8E, a conveyor belt 881 (or other similar mechanism) may be utilized to direct the particles to a collector 882. For example, during a cleaning operation, the filter media may be subjected to vibration (possibly before, after, or during reverse flow), which releases the particles onto the conveyor belt 881.

[0068] In another embodiment, referring to FIG. 8F, a piezoelectric actuator or ultrasonic transducer 832 may be attached to the filter housing 810 or the reinforcing structure 805. During the cleaning operation, the piezoelectric actuator or ultrasonic transducer 832 may vibrate the filter medium 815 at a high frequency (e.g., 0.5 kHz to 1 kHz, 1 kHz to 10 kHz, 100 kHz to 100 kHz, more than 100 kHz, etc.) with a low amplitude (e.g., on the order of a few nanometers to a few micrometers, etc.). In some applications, the piezoelectric actuator or ultrasonic transducer 832 (e.g., using 500 Hz to 900 kHz with a small amplitude on the order of a few nanometers to a few micrometers, etc.) may be used in the cleaning operation with minimal maintenance. By applying the vibration, the particles may be released from the filter medium 815 and fall onto the conveyor belt 881. Such implementation by the conveyor belt 881 may improve the cleaning operation when the size of the particles is fine (e.g., on the order of a few nanometers to a few micrometers, etc.).

[0069] Again, it should be noted that the various example or suggested ranges set forth above or described herein are specific to those examples and are not intended to limit the scope or ranges (e.g., frequency, amplitude, etc.) of the disclosed technology, but again, are merely intended to provide example or exemplary ranges for each example or use case.

[0070] In some cases, at least one of the one or more actuators 830-832 of Figures 8A-8F applies vibrations (e.g., vibrates, pulsates, energizes, etc.) to the filter housing 810 or the reinforcing structure 805 and thus the filter media 815. The actuators 830-832 may be classified as one or more of several types, including: continuous actuators, impulse actuators (non-continuous or non-continuous actuators), direct (physical) contact actuators, or non-contact actuators, which may include a range of wave, energy, and / or sonic actuators, including but not limited to rotary actuators, mechanical actuators, electromechanical actuators, solenoid actuators, magnetic actuators, electromagnetic actuators, piezoelectric actuators, ultrasonic transducers, reciprocating actuators, linear actuators, rotary actuators, rotating eccentric masses, or other types of actuators or sources.

[0071] 9A and 9B are perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an example of a self-cleaning filtration system. The exemplary self-cleaning filtration system of FIG. 9A and FIG. 9B may be the same as or similar to any of the filters described herein (e.g., one or more of filters 800A-800F of FIG. 8A-8F). FIG. 9A shows an example of a self-cleaning filtration system 900 shown in an exploded view in FIG. 9B.

[0072] 9B, the self-cleaning filtration system 900 may include a main frame 925, a seal 920, a filter housing 910, a resilient element 960, a filter media 915, and reinforcement structures 905 and 906, which may all (or any subset thereof) be the same structural component or may be a multi-piece structure (not shown). The self-cleaning filtration system 900 may also include one or more actuators or sensors 930, such as those shown and described in connection with FIGS. 13A-13D. In some cases, the actuators 930 may apply a vibratory force to the filter housing 910 or reinforcement structure 905 in a continuous manner, or such actuators 930 may apply such forces in a non-continuous manner. In some cases, the actuators 930 may apply a vibratory force by physical contact to the filter housing 910 or reinforcement structure 905, or by a non-contact method. Additionally, the actuator 930 may be configured such that the vibration applying force (e.g., force, load, impact, etc.) can be delivered in one or more of all six degrees of freedom (DOF). In some cases, when an inductive actuator is included in the actuator 930, one or more permanent magnets / coils 940 may be utilized in the self-cleaning filtration system 900. Additionally, in some cases, the self-cleaning filtration system 900 may have a resilient compartment 960, particularly if the actuator operates at a low frequency (e.g., 0.01 Hz to 1000 Hz) and generates a high amplitude (e.g., 100 microns to 10 millimeters) or is discontinuous, for example, when the actuator 930 applies the vibration applying force by a repetitive impact force (impact force), one or more resilient compartments 960 (e.g., springs or rubber) may be utilized to bring the filter housing 910 or filter reinforcement structure 905 and filter media 915 in the opposite direction (e.g., back to equilibrium) during the cleaning operation.

[0073] According to some embodiments herein, the self-cleaning filtration system 900 or mainframe 925 may also be contained with a housing (not shown), where, for example, the self-cleaning filtration system 900 may be in or have its own separate system or housing, which may include all of the components for the self-cleaning filtration system 900, such as the filter media 915, the filtration housing 910, the reinforcement structure 905, the sensors or actuators 930, at least one communication system or component (e.g., for sending and receiving data), a microprocessor, piping, fans, blowers, shock absorbers, control systems, wiring, attachments, brackets, sealing components (e.g., sealing elements 920 or other seals), etc.

[0074] Further, as shown and described in connection with FIG. 9B, the filter housing 910 or reinforcing structure 905 may be disposed on or otherwise used on or with the filter media 915. The filter housing 910 or reinforcing structure 905 may have any shape and geometry, such as a grid (e.g., as a metal or plastic net) to prevent wear, creep, and buckling of the filter media 915 during cleaning operations and to transfer loads / displacements to the filter media 915. In general, the filter housing 910 may have any shape or geometry, so long as the filter housing 910 holds the filter media 915 securely during cleaning operations. The elastic modulus of the filter housing 910 or reinforcing structure 905 may be at least about 10 times the elastic modulus of the filter media 915. The elastic modulus of the filter housing 910 or the reinforcing structure 905 may be on the order of megapascals (MPa) (e.g., if the filter housing / reinforcing structure is made of a plastic / polymer / composite material, their elastic modulus may be on the order of about 10s MPa or about 100s MPa, etc.) or on the order of gigapascals (GPa) (e.g., if the filter housing / reinforcing structure is made of a metal / composite material, their elastic modulus may be on the order of about 10s GPa or about 100s GPa, etc.). The elastic modulus of the filter housing 910 or the reinforcing structure 905 may be designed according to the application and design requirements.

[0075] The filter housing 910 may be added to the filtration system 900 to add structural stability and durability to the filter media 915 and also to transmit vibration forces to the filter media 915 during cleaning operations. As shown in FIG. 9B, the filter housing 910 may be disposed or sandwiched between the filter media 915 and the main frame 925 via a sealing element 920. However, in some cases, the filter media 915 may be disposed directly against the main frame 925, such as in the absence of a filter housing, e.g., the filter housing 910. The filter housing 910 may be extended (e.g., unsealed, expanded, etc.) when the filter media 915 needs to be removed or reinserted. The filter housing 910 may then be tightened after the filter media 915 is disposed within the filter housing 910 to keep the filter media 915 securely in place (e.g., in contact with the frame, etc.). Thus, the systems and methods described herein may achieve one or more of easier replacement of the filter media 915, less damage / tears to the filter media 915, or be more user friendly.

[0076] Further, according to various different examples herein, the filter media 915 may be constructed from one or more materials including metal, activated carbon / charcoal, fiberglass, fibrous carbon, polymer, cotton, filter paper, woven or non-woven fabric, mesh, cordierite, silicon carbide, ceramic, ceramic monolith, or other materials that may be used as filter media depending on the use, application, particulate matter being filtered, or other factors related to the need for filtration.

[0077] The self-cleaning filtration system 900 can include a main frame 925, which is shown in FIG. 9B as a rectangular box structure, but can be constructed in a variety of other shapes, geometries, and sizes. The main frame 925 can be configured as a box that connects the filtration system to an adjacent body or housing structure, and a shock absorber can be disposed between the main frame 925 and such body structure. The main frame 925 can be made from composites, plastics, metal, wood, or any combination thereof, or any other material. Depending on the application, one or more components of or associated with the self-cleaning filtration system 900, such as a microprocessor, sensors, etc., can be disposed outside of the main frame 925.

[0078] In some cases, the filter media 915 may be coated for different purposes, such as to enhance antimicrobial effectiveness, improve durability, enhance filtration performance, act as a catalyst to increase the rate of a desired chemical reaction, absorb some specific material or odor, or perform a known functionality, etc. Additionally, in some cases, a non-stick coating may be applied to the filter media 915, which makes it easier to remove (e.g., remove) particles.

[0079] Aspects of the disclosed systems and methods may also be utilized in various types of filtration systems, such as liquid filtration (e.g., filter presses, cartridge filters, drum filters, depth filters, bag filters, clean-in-place filters, and other such types of liquid filtration), gas or air filtration (e.g., HEPA, ULPA, PTFE membranes, porous filters, ceramic filters, monolith filters, bag filters, electrostatic precipitators, etc.), and other filtration types, such as cartridge filters, cold plasma, electrostatic filtration, etc. The disclosed systems and methods may also be utilized to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency by purifying exhaust systems of automobiles, trucks, construction machinery, agricultural machinery, mining machinery, and power generation equipment. For example, the disclosed systems and methods may be used to purify porous filters, ceramic, or ceramic monolith, and any other types of filters used in exhaust systems, to purify and remove ash and soot and other particles from the exhaust systems of internal combustion engines or power generation equipment exhausts, etc.

[0080] FIG. 10A shows a top perspective view of an exemplary filtration system 1000A. Referring to FIG. 10A, the filtration system 1000A is shown including a filter housing 1010A, a filter medium 1015A, an actuator / sensor 1030A, a transfer structure 1020A (wherein the rods are of other structures and forms, but may be used in addition or instead), and an attachment mechanism 1021A that transfers a vibrational force (e.g., load) from the transfer rod 1020A to the reinforcement structure 1005A or the filter housing 1010A (depending on the design) and thus to the filter medium 1015A. In use, the actuator / sensor 1030A may apply a vibrational force to the transfer structure rod 1020A, which transfers the vibrational force to the filter medium 1015A via the reinforcement structure 1005A or the attachment mechanism 1021A and the reinforcement structure 1005A. Depending on the implementation or need, one or more transfer structure structures 1021A may be utilized. The transport structure 1020A compartment may also be located on the clean side of the filter media 1015A or on the dirty side of the filter media 1015A.

[0081] 10B shows a top perspective view of another exemplary filtration system 1000B including actuators / actuator elements 1030B, 1020B, 1021B consistent with examples of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 10B, the exemplary filtration system 1000B is illustrated as including a filter housing 1010B, a filter media 1015B, an actuator 1030B, and a transfer structure 1020B (here a rod having a sawtooth-shaped filter media-engaging portion 1021B, although other structures and configurations are within the scope of the present invention), where the sawtooth portion of the transfer rod 1020B engages the reinforcing structure 1005B or the filter housing 1010B and thus the filter media 1015B. In use, the actuator / sensor 1030B may apply a vibration-imposing force (e.g., load) to the transfer structure rod 1020B, which transfers the vibration-imposing force through the transfer structure portion 1021B (or other structure shaped to abut / align / engage with the reinforcement structure 1005B or the filter housing 1010B and thus the filter media 1015B). Depending on the implementation or need, one or more transfer structures 1020B may be utilized. The transfer structure 1020B compartment may also be located on the clean side of the filter media 1015B or on the dirty side of the filter media 1015B.

[0082] FIG. 10C shows a top perspective view of yet another exemplary filtration system 1000C including actuators / sensors 1030.1C-1030.5C. All sensors and actuators 1030.1C-1030.5C are connected to an electronic control system (ECU) to send and receive signals. Referring to FIG. 10C, filtration system 1000C is shown to include a main frame 1025C, a filter media 1015C, several actuators / sensors 1030.1C-1030.5C, and transfer structures 1020.1C and 1020.2C (where both types of rods and associated structures shown in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, respectively, engage with a reinforcement structure 1005C or filter housing 1010C in the same manner as described above, etc.). Additionally, the filtration system 1000C may also include a piezoelectric actuator 1030.4C (also shown in FIG. 13C ) that applies a force to the filter housing 1010C or the filter reinforcement structure 1005C, for example, continuously or otherwise. Additionally, as described in the above examples, the actuators / sensors 1030.1C-1030·5C may generate or deliver a force that applies vibrations to the filter housing 1010C or the filter reinforcement structure 1005C through physical contact. For example, by a piezoelectric / ultrasonic actuator or an impact force, either continuously (e.g., by a piezoelectric / ultrasonic actuator that is in contact with the filter housing 1010C or the reinforcement structure 1005C at all times during the cleaning operation) or discontinuously (e.g., by a repetitive impact or shock force). In some examples, the actuators / sensors 1030.1C-1030.5C may generate or deliver a force that applies vibrations to the filter housing 1010C or the filter reinforcement structure 1005C without physical contact. For example, actuators / sensors 1030.1C-1030.5C may generate or deliver forces to filter housing 1010 or filter reinforcement structure 1005 by continuously or discontinuously inducing magnetic or electromagnetic fields, other energy, or the like.

[0083] View examples of self-cleaning filtration systems 11 is a representation of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system and method consistent with the systems and methods described herein (see, e.g., FIGS. 10A-10C). Referring initially to FIG. 11, an exemplary automatic self-cleaning filtration system is depicted including a main frame 1101, one or more filters 1112, a filter housing 1110, a vibration source 1152 (e.g., actuator, energy source, etc.) for applying vibration to the filter 1112, an electronic control system (ECU) 1118, a source 1122 for generating a backflow during a cleaning operation in the filter 1112, at least one power source 1120 (for powering other compartments), a battery 1126, an energy harvester compartment 1125, a collection compartment 1116 for collecting particles (e.g., dust, droplets, etc.), a main inlet 1130, a main outlet 1132, and (optionally) a second inlet 1131 and a second outlet 1133.

[0084] According to some cases, the ECU 1118 may be configured to send data from the sensors 1142, 1146, 1148 and the vibration source 1152 for various processing or users, for example, at the user component 1190. The user component 1190 may be one or more of an operator (e.g., a human operator), at least one computing device, a machine, storage, AI, cloud, etc. In some cases, the ECU 1118 may be configured to control the cleaning operation via an algorithm / AI depending on the application. For example, in some cases, the cleaning operation duration may be controlled as a function of filtration time, filter mass, pressure drop, and other relevant data, system parameters, or the like. For example, in some cases, the cleaning operation may be stopped upon motion being detected by a motion detector sensor (not shown), which may be utilized, for example, in an air cleaner implementation. Additionally, in some cases, the user component 1190 (e.g., controlled by a user) may override the ECU 1118 commands (e.g., the user component 1190 may turn on or off, reprogram, or otherwise control the cleaning operation). The ECU 1118 can send a signal to the user component 1190 if something is wrong or malfunctioning in the filtration system. In some cases, the sensor 1146 or the vibration source 1152 may be mounted within the main frame 1101. The filter media 1112 may be held within the filter housing 1110 or a reinforcement structure (not shown). The ECU 1118 may also be located within the main frame 1101 or outside the main frame 1101 depending on the application. Additionally, the vibration source 1152 may be connected to the ECU 1118 via a wired or wireless interconnection (e.g., all thin arrows shown in FIG. 11 represent connectivity to send and receive signals). Additionally, whenever other components herein are referred to as being connected to the ECU 1118, any or all of such components may be connected to the ECU 1118 via a wired or wireless interconnection.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 11, the self-cleaning filtration system may have sensors 1146 for measuring or characterizing the quality of the inlet flow 1142 and the outlet flow 1148, as well as the condition of the filter media 1112. The self-cleaning filtration system may also have additional actuators and sensors for controlling and discharging particles from the collector 1116. Furthermore, when such cleaning operations are performed, particles (large or otherwise) released from the filter media 1112 fall towards the bottom of the filter box 1110. The bottom of the filter box 1110 may function as a particle collector. However, in some applications, to improve the efficiency of cleaning the prosthesis, particles such as large particles may be collected in a dedicated collector, which in some cases may be specially designed and integrated into the main frame 1101.

[0086] The collector 1116 may have an actuator (not shown) configured to empty the collector 1116 via one or more mechanically or electromechanically implemented mechanisms. The collector 1116 actuator may be connected to the ECU 1118 and receive an on / off signal therefrom. Also, a sensor (not shown) may be attached to the collector 1116 to measure the amount of particles in the collector 1116, the time before the collector 1116 was emptied, or any other measurement to track the performance and functionality of the collector 1116.

[0087] In some cases, a compartment 1122, such as an electromechanical fan, blower, or pressure vessel, may be utilized to generate a flow (e.g., a pulsed jet flow, etc.) from the clean side to the dirty side of the filter 1112 to generate a reverse flow during cleaning operations. In these cases, such a device 1122 may be located (i) at the dirty side of the primary filter 1112 to drive or aspirate the fluid flow, or (ii) anywhere in the flow path to draw flow from the clean side of the filter to the dirty side of the primary filter 1112. In some cases, the device 1122 may be connected to the ECU 1118 and send and receive control and feedback signals therewith, through it, or to a different monitoring or control component.

[0088] In some cases, one or more dampers or valves 1151, 1152, 1153, and 1154 may be utilized to control, direct, or redirect the flow path during the filtration operation as well as during the purification operation. In some cases, the main inlet 1130 and the main outlet 1132 may also be used as a second outlet or a second inlet, or vice versa, depending on the design and application. Also, by utilizing dampers or valves 1151-1154, the purification operation may be a closed system (e.g., no flow into or out of the filtration system during the purification operation).

[0089] FIG. 12 is a diagram of an exemplary filtration mechanism consistent with examples of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 12, each of the self-cleaning filtration systems may have multiple (e.g., three, etc.) separate sets of sensors (e.g., sensor 1227 on dirty side 1260 and sensor 1237 on clean side 1270) on different sides of the filter media 1220 to measure and characterize the quality of the inlet and outlet fluids, respectively. For example, sensors 1227 and 1237 may measure the flow rate, pressure, temperature, particle count, particle size, humidity, relative humidity, chemical or other composition, parameters, compounds, or the like, of the inlet and outlet fluids, respectively, before and after filtration. The self-cleaning filtration system may also have a third sensor 1247 that measures and characterizes the state or response of the filter housing and / or reinforcing structure 1210 or filter media 1220, such as the state of motion, position, velocity, acceleration, and mass of the filter housing and filter media 1220. A self-cleaning filtration system may have all three, two, one, or none of the sensor sets 1227, 1237, and 1247 depending on the application and design requirements, and in some cases various other types of sensors and actuators may be utilized depending on the application and design requirements.

[0090] FIG. 12 and other figures in this specification show how some examples of exemplary simplified generic filtration mechanisms work. It should be noted here that many filters with different media and structures can be used within one filtration system, depending on the application. In FIG. 12, V is velocity, P is pressure, m is mass velocity, F is flow rate, T is temperature, R is relative humidity, AT is the total mass of the filter system, N is the number of particles with different sizes, and AQ is a measure of all parameters of air quality. In some cases, during the filtration operation, particles are captured by the filtration system. Thus, the accumulation of particles leads to an increase in the total mass M of the filtration system. These particles act as a barrier to the flow. As a result, the filter performance decreases over time (e.g., with the same input power to the filtration system, the output V: velocity, P: pressure, m: mass velocity, F: flow rate can be reduced). Furthermore, the decrease in performance can further lead to pathogens growing in or on the filter medium. As a result, the quantity and quality of the filtered fluid at the outlet may be adversely affected (becoming less healthy or pure) by using the filtration system over time as particles accumulate on the filter. Thus, in some cases, the filtration system may be equipped with such mechanisms for sterilizing the filter media or fluid (as further described elsewhere herein).

[0091] Actuator Examples 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are diagrams of exemplary actuators that may be used in a self-cleaning filtration system to apply vibrations to a filter medium. Actuators 13A-13D may be the same as or similar to various actuators described herein (e.g., actuators 1030.1C-1030.5C of FIG. 10C). FIG. 13A illustrates an exemplary solenoid actuator 1310, FIG. 13B illustrates an exemplary magnetic actuator 1320, FIG. 13C illustrates an exemplary piezoelectric (ultrasonic transducer) actuator 1330, and FIG. 13D illustrates an exemplary reciprocating actuator 1340. Additional types of actuators that may be utilized in one or more examples described herein include rotary actuators, linear actuators, other types of mechanical actuators, other types of electromechanical actuators, shape memory alloy actuators, ultrasonic actuators, continuous or direct actuators, non-contact actuators, inductive actuators, servo actuators, other magnet-based actuators, any type of magnetic, electromagnetic, mechanical, electromechanical actuator, and the like.

[0092] In various examples described herein, one type of actor can be used to apply vibration to the filter media so that the filter media experiences a wide range of displacements (e.g., the vibration amplitude can vary from a few nanometers to a few millimeters) to improve the performance of the cleaning operation. Also, the frequency range of the applied vibration force can be swept over a wide range to improve the performance of the cleaning operation. For example, a lower frequency range or higher amplitude may be used to remove some particles. On the other hand, the vibration application may be at a higher frequency or lower amplitude to remove some particles. In some cases, multiple types of actuators may be required to generate such a wide range of displacements or frequencies, especially when the size of the particles is not uniform. For example, solenoids or magnetic actuators with large amplitudes (e.g., on the order of millimeters) and lower frequencies (e.g., on the order of 0.01 to 1000 Hz) may be utilized to remove larger particles, and piezoelectric or ultrasonic transducers with small amplitudes (e.g., on the order of micrometers) and high frequencies (e.g., 0.5 kHz to 1 kHz, 1 kHz to 10 kHz, 10 kHz to 100 kHz, greater than 100 kHz, etc.) may be utilized to increase the speed of movement of particulates.

[0093] Energy Harvester Example FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary energy harvester 1400 of a self-cleaning filtration system, which may be the same as or similar to one or more of the self-cleaning filtration systems described herein. In some applications, it may not be feasible to have easy access to a power source and other components for the self-cleaning operation. In these applications, the energy harvester 1400 can be added to the self-cleaning filtration system to generate energy during the filtration operation. The energy harvester 1400 can further store the energy in an energy storage compartment (not shown). Thus, during the cleaning operation, components such as actuators, sensors, fans, etc. may use the stored energy. Also, some components (such as sensors and ECUs) may use some of the stored energy during the filtration operation. Referring to FIG. 14, the energy harvester components 1437 and 1427 may be located on both sides of the filter media 1420 (one or more of the dirty side 1460 or clean side 1470) depending on the application. As an example, the energy harvester 1400 may be a generator having blades to generate energy from the flows 1415 and 1435 from the main inlet 1410 to the main outlet 1430 during filtration operations and convert a portion of the kinetic energy of the flows 1415 and 1435 into electrical energy, which may be stored in a memory device via the ECU. As an alternative to a generator, a vibration harvester may be used to harvest energy, especially for applications where the main frame is attached to a structure that experiences some vibration, such as automotive, construction, and agricultural and mining machinery.

[0094] Piping Example 15 is a diagram 1500 of an exemplary filtration system having general piping, pre-filter and post-filter, second inlet, and second outlet consistent with an example of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 15, an exemplary embodiment is shown having a main inlet 1510, a main outlet 1530, a second inlet 1540, a second outlet 1560, a filter medium 1520, and second filter media 1521, 1522, 1523, and 1524. During filtration operation, raw flow 1515 enters the filter medium 1520 from the dirty side of the filter medium 1520 via the main inlet 1510. During filtration operation, clean flow 1535 exits the filter medium 1520 from the clean side of the filter medium 1520 via the main outlet 1530.

[0095] During the cleaning operation, the flow 1545 can enter the clean side of the filter medium 1520 through the second inlet 1540. During the cleaning operation, the dirty flow 1565 can exit the dirty side of the filter medium 1520. As shown in FIG. 15, the flow 1545 during the cleaning operation can enter through the second inlet 1540 (clean side) of the filter medium 1520 (the dashed arrow indicates the flow direction during the cleaning operation, and the solid arrow indicates the flow 1545 during the filtering operation). The flow 1545 can come from the same reservoir as the raw flow 1515, or from a reservoir of purified air, or partially from both. This source of vibration is described elsewhere in this specification. Furthermore, the raw flow 1545 can be generated by the same source that generates the purified flow 1535, or a separate source can be implemented, or both can be used.

[0096] 15, in some examples, during a cleaning operation, raw flow 1545 may enter the filtration system through a main outlet 1530. Also, in some cases, during a cleaning operation, dirty flow 1565 may leave the filtration system through a main inlet 1510.

[0097] In some other examples, during a cleaning operation, flow 1545 can enter the filtration system from the main inlet 1510 or the main outlet 1530. Also, in some cases, during a cleaning operation, dirty flow 1565 can leave the filtration system from the main outlet 1530 or the main inlet 1510, depending on the application.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 15, in some examples, during a purification operation, piping or flow paths, etc. may be controlled by valves / dampers, and flow may not enter the filtration system by using fluid inside the filtration system during the purification operation (e.g., the purification operation may be a closed loop where no fluid enters and the filtration system is not present during the purification operation).

[0099] 15, in some embodiments, a secondary / pre-filter 1521 or 1523 may be used with the main inlet 1510 or on the secondary inlet 1540, respectively. Also, in some cases, post-filters 1522 and 1524 may be utilized after the main filter 1520 on the main outlet 1510 or secondary outlet 1540, respectively.

[0100] Examples of Sterile Filtration Systems 16 is a diagram of an exemplary filtration system having additional disinfection or purification aspects consistent with examples of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 16, a filtration system 1620 may have one or more disinfection or purification components or compartments, such as a heating component 1631, a UV component 1630, or an electrical charge delivery device 1640, in addition to a vibration source 1650.

[0101] The heating compartment 1631 can raise the temperature of the fluid (e.g., the temperature in, on, or around the filtration system 1620) during a filtering or purification operation via various heating techniques or via radiation to destroy or kill pathogens and / or other harmful compounds. Additionally, a UV (ultraviolet) 1630 or cold plasma source 1630 can be utilized to effect or accelerate the sterilization process.

[0102] In some cases, the filtration system 1620 can include one or more charge delivery devices 1640 that can charge particles on the dirty side of the filtration system. Charging the particles can enhance the release of the particles from the filter media of the filtration system 1620. Additionally, by generating a magnetic or electromagnetic field, the magnetic forces can further cause removal (e.g., removal, knock-off, liberation, relaxation, etc.) of particles from the filtration system 1620. These disinfection techniques can be combined sequentially or simultaneously with any other method.

[0103] In some cases, the sterilization techniques may also include or involve chemical or radiation purification devices and techniques. For example, the vibration process may involve chemicals or processes to facilitate sterilization, neutralization, destruction, or killing of particles or pathogens (e.g., COVID-19). Detergents and various other chemicals may be utilized alone or in conjunction with mechanical processes to facilitate sterilizing, neutralizing, destroying, or killing particles. Additionally, in some cases, chemical coatings may be applied to the filter media of the filtration system 1620. The chemical coatings may also have non-stick properties in addition to the properties mentioned above. The purification operations and chemical or radiation cycles may occur simultaneously or in any other order depending on the application.

[0104] According to embodiments herein, the operations, i.e., (1) reversing flow, (2) applying vibration (mechanical or wave, beam or energy based), (3) providing an electrical charge, or (4) chemical or radiological cleaning (note: one or more of these may be omitted), may be performed simultaneously or in any order with timing gaps (e.g., one at a time, in sequence, in combination, or repeatedly) until the required or desired level of cleaning is achieved, or the system is turned off by any mechanism (e.g., manually or by a control system such as an ECU).

[0105] Examples of filter media 17A-17D are diagrams showing various filter media or materials that may be utilized in the disclosed filtration mechanism or filtration system, consistent with examples of the present disclosure. Various examples of the filtration system herein may include one or more pre-filter media 1731 / 1741 and post-filter media 1733 / 1743, which may be attached to the main filter media 1732 / 1742 (see FIG. 17C) or may be separate (see FIG. 17D). As shown in FIG. 17B, some additive materials (e.g., different materials shown herein as round and rectangular particles) may be utilized within the filter media 1720 to absorb or destroy some pathogens or chemical compounds.

[0106] The filter media 1710 / 1720 / 1732 / 1742 can include a fibrous or porous material capable of removing solid particles (e.g., ash, dust, dirt, debris, granules, lint, mold, pathogens, pollen, powder, soot, etc.) from a fluid. The filter media 1710 / 1720 / 1732 / 1742 can be a clean porous filter, a ceramic, or a ceramic monolith, or any other type of filter.

[0107] FIG. 18 illustrates an example of an electrostatic air filter 1830 including a filter medium (e.g., as described in connection with FIGS. 17A-17D) in which the disclosed filtration systems may be utilized, consistent with examples of the present disclosure.

[0108] Flow Path Examples 19A, 19B, and 19C illustrate example flow path diagrams for a continuous filtration implementation in which one or more aspects of the disclosed filtration system, consistent with embodiments of the present disclosure, may be utilized. At a high level, in some applications where a continuous clean flow is desired, at least two filters may be utilized. For example, one filter may provide purified fluid while the other filter is being purified, and vice versa.

[0109] 19A, an exemplary filtering operation of filtration system 1900 is shown. Solid arrows indicate the paths of fluid flow. Raw fluid enters filtration system 1900 at inlet 1930, and then particles are captured on the dirty side of two filters 1912 and 1922. The purified fluid then exits filtration system 1900 through main outlet 1932. In some cases, filtration system 1900 may have several dampers or valves 1951 and 1952 to adjust, direct, or redirect the flow path.

[0110] 19B and 19C respectively display an exemplary cleaning operation of filtration system 1900 and filtration system 1900C during a filtering operation. Referring to FIG. 19B, raw fluid may enter filtration system 1900 at main inlet 1930. The fluid may then pass through first filter 1912. The cleaned fluid may then exit filtration system 1900 at main outlet 1932 (solid arrows indicate the flow path of the filtering operation) while second filter 1922 is being cleaned. In FIG. 19B, dashed arrows from 1931 to 1933 indicate the flow path for the cleaning operation of second filter 1922. In some cases, to clean the second filter 1922, fluid enters the second filter 1922 from the clean side of the second filter 1922 and leaves the second filter 1922 from the dirty side while the second filter 1922 is being cleaned (e.g., subjected to vibration at 1940). The dirty flow can then exit the filtration system via the second outlet 1933. In some cases, the filtration system 1900 may have a component or compartment 1960 for generating a reverse flow (from the clean side of the second filter 1922 to the dirty side of the second filter 1922) during a cleaning operation. In some cases, the user component 1960 may be located after the filter 1912 or 1922 to draw or suck in fluid, or may be located before the filter 1912 or 1922 to push fluid toward the filter 1912 or 1922.

[0111] With reference to FIG. 19C, after the second filter 1922 is cleaned, the filtration system 1900 can then start a filtering operation with the second filter 1922 (solid arrow on the right side is shown between the inlet 1930 and the outlet 1932). In such a case, the cleaning operation can then start cleaning the first filter 1912 (e.g., follow the dashed arrow between 1931 and 1933 for the fluid path), and the second filter 1922 performs a filtering operation so that the cleaned fluid leaves the filter media from the main outlet 1932. As also shown in FIG. 19C, while the first filter 1912 is being cleaned (e.g., being vibrated), the reverse flow may come from the second inlet 1931, then pass through the first filter 1912 from the clean side, and then leave the dirty side. Thus, particles can be released from the dirty side of the first filter 1912 and exit the filtration system via the second outlet 1933. After the first filter 1912 is cleaned, the filtration system can begin a filtration operation. As shown in the exemplary embodiment of Figures 19A-19C, at all times (even during a cleaning operation), raw fluid can enter the main inlet 1930 and cleaned fluid can exit the filtration system through the main outlet 1932 (e.g., to ensure that there is no interruption in the filtration operation even while the filters are beginning to be cleaned). In some cases, the filtration system 1900 may have a component or compartment 1960 for generating a reverse flow (e.g., from the clean side of the first filter 1912 to the dirty side of the filter) during a cleaning operation.

[0112] The disclosed systems and methods may be utilized in conjunction with other filter cleaning methods, such as jet pulse, cyclone filtration systems, vortex filtration systems, centrifugal filtration systems, etc. In some cases, the dirty sides of the filters 1912 and 1922 may be positioned facing toward the ground. Furthermore, to improve the performance of the cleaning operation, the vibrational force (e.g., load, impact, etc.) may be applied in the opposite direction to gravity to prevent particle re-accumulation (e.g., diffusion, penetration, adhesion, adhesion, build-up, etc.) in the filters 1912 and 1922 during the cleaning operation. Additionally, consistent with the techniques described herein, the applied vibrational force may pull or push the filter toward the opposite direction of gravity, depending on the application.

[0113] Example of a self-cleaning dual filtration system 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, and 20F show diagrams of an exemplary self-cleaning dual filtration system and method consistent with some examples of the present disclosure. Specifically, FIGS. 20A and 20B are diagrams of an example of a self-cleaning filtration system and method having at least two filter media, namely, a first filter media 2012 and a second filter media 2014. FIGS. 20A-20F may have some similarities to FIG. 11. Thus, one or more components or techniques described with respect to FIGS. 20A-20F may be the same or similar to the components or techniques described with respect to FIG. 11.

[0114] Referring first to FIG. 20A, the self-cleaning filtration system includes a main frame 2001, a first filter medium 2012, a second filter medium 2014, a filter housing 2010, sensors 2042-2048, a vibration source 2052 (e.g., an actuator, an energy source, etc.) for applying vibration to the filter 2012 or 2014 during a cleaning operation, an electronic control system (ECU) 2018, a source 2022 for generating a back-fluid (e.g., gas, liquid) during a cleaning operation in the filter 2012 or 2014, and a filter housing 2010. An automatic self-cleaning filtration system is illustrated that includes at least one power source 2020 or harvester compartment 2025 energy (e.g., FIG. 20(B)) for charging the system (e.g., ECU 2018, backflow source 2022, sensors 2042-2048, vibration source 2052, and other components), a collector component 2016 for collecting particles (e.g., dust, droplets, etc.), a main inlet 2030, and a main outlet 2032, among other elements described below.

[0115] According to some embodiments, the ECU 2018 may be configured to send or receive data from the sensors 2042, 2046, 2048 and the vibration source 2052. The user component 2090 may be one or more of an operator (e.g., a human operator), at least one computing device, a machine, storage, a cloud, and the like. In some aspects, the ECU 2018 may be configured to control the cleaning operation via an algorithm Al (artificial intelligence) depending on the application. For example, in some cases, the cleaning operation duration may be controlled as a function of filtration time, filter mass, pressure drop, and other relevant data, system parameters, or the like. Additionally, in some cases, the user component 2090 may override commands from the ECU 2018 (e.g., a user may turn the cleaning operation on or off, reprogram, or otherwise control it). In some embodiments, the ECU 2018 may send a signal to the user component 2090 when something goes wrong with the filtration system. All the sensors 2042-2048 and the vibration source 2052 may be mounted on the mainframe 2001. The first and second filter media 2012 and 2014 may be held within the filter housing 2010. The ECU 2018 may also be located within the main frame 2001 or external to the main frame 2001 depending on the application. Additionally, according to some systems herein, the sensors 2042-2048 and the vibration source 2052 may be connected to the ECU 2018 via wires or wireless interconnects (e.g., sending and receiving signals; Note: in FIG. 20A, all of the thin arrows going in and out of the ECU 2018 represent connectivity between various components and the ECU 2018). Additionally, whenever other components herein are referred to as being connected to the ECU 2018, any or all of such components may be connected to the ECU 2018 via wires or wirelessly.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 20B, the self-cleaning filtration system may have additional components, passages, or compartments, such as a second inlet 2031, a second outlet 2033, a sensor 2040, an actuator 2050 connected to the collector 2016, and an energy harvester 2025 (or battery) for when the power source 2020 is not accessible or operational.

[0117] 20A and 20B, the self-cleaning filtration system may have a series of sensors 2040-2048 to measure or characterize the quality of the inlet flow 2042 and the outlet flow 2048. More specifically, in some cases, the sensor 2046 measures the condition of the first filter media 2012 or 2014. In some cases, an additional sensor may be included to measure the condition of the collector 2016. The system may also have one or more additional actuators 2050 to empty or control the collector 2016.

[0118] The collector 2016 may have an actuator (not shown) configured to empty the collector 2016 via one or more mechanically or electromechanically implemented mechanisms. The collector 2016 actuator may be connected to the ECU 2018 and receive an on / off signal therefrom. A sensor 2040 may also be attached to the collector 2016 to measure the amount of particles in the collector 2016, the time before the collector 2016 was emptied, or any other measurement to track the performance and functionality of the collector 2016.

[0119] In some cases, a compartment 2022, such as an electromechanical fan, blower, or pressure vessel, may be utilized to generate a flow (e.g., a pulsed jet flow, etc.) from the clean side to the dirty side of the first filter media 2012 to generate a reverse flow during cleaning operations. In these cases, such a device 2022 may be positioned anywhere in the flow path to (i) drive or aspirate the fluid flow to the dirty side of the first filter media 2012, or (ii) pull flow from the clean side of the filter to the dirty side of the first filter media 2012. In some cases, the device 2022 may be connected to the ECU 2018 and send and receive control and feedback signals thereto, through it, or to a different monitoring or control component.

[0120] Filtration operation example Various exemplary aspects of normal (filtering) operation are described in relation to Figures 20A, 20C, 20D, 21A, 22A, and 24A. In these figures, arrows 2030 / 2032 (Figures 20A and 20C), arrows 2030 / 2031 / 2032 (Figure 20D), arrows 2030 to 2032 (Figures 21A and 22A), and arrows 2030 to 2032 (Figure 24A) indicate exemplary flow paths during normal filtering in the above-mentioned figures and figures. In some cases, during filtering operation, the flow of raw fluid (e.g., air) enters the filter box housing 2010 via the main inlet 2030. In addition to the main inlet 2030, in some cases, the raw flow can also enter from the second inlet 2031 (see, for example, Figure 20D).

[0121] During the filtering operation, after the raw flow enters the filter main frame 2001, the raw flow passes through the first filter medium 2012 from the dirty side of the filter. As a result of filtering, particles are captured on the dirty side of the first filter medium 2012. Furthermore, depending on the application, the raw flow can also pass through the second filter medium 2014 during the filtering operation (e.g., from 2031 through the second filter medium 2014 to 2032), as shown in FIG. 20D. In this case, the raw flow passing through the second filter medium 2014 can enter the main inlet 2030 or through the second inlet 2031. After such filtering, the purified flow exits the main frame 2001 through the main outlet 2032. In some cases, dampers or valves may be used, arranged, or positioned in relation to the main frame 2001 to control, regulate, direct, or redirect during the filtering operation as well as the filtering operation.

[0122] According to some embodiments, during normal filtration operation, the vibration source 2052 may be set or switched off. Additionally, the sensors 2042 and 2048 may be arranged and configured to measure or characterize the quality of the raw and purified flows, respectively, such as flow rate, pressure, temperature, humidity, particle count, chemical composition, etc., and forward the data to the ECU 2018 or directly to the user component 2090. Additionally, in some cases, parameters (e.g., speed, acceleration, weight, displacement, or other parameters) or conditions of the filter media 2012 and 2014 may be measured or characterized by the sensor 2046 and forwarded to the ECU 2018 or the user component 2090, such as in real time. Such transmission may also be performed via one or more of the sensors 2040-2048. In some cases, the sensor 2046 may also be integrated into one of the other sensors 2040, 2042, 2044, or 2048. Further, the systems and methods herein may be configured to set or adjust the sampling rate of the sensors 2040-2042 depending on the application, for example, depending on system requirements, filtration or purification conditions for such application, or other factors.

[0123] According to FIG. 20B, in yet other examples, in addition to the two filter media 2012 and 2014, additional filters such as an optional pre-filter 2008 or post-filter 2009 may be utilized, depending on, for example, the application and design requirements.

[0124] In some cases, during filtering operations, an energy harvester 2025 (e.g., a generator disposed in the flow path or a vibration harvester disposed inside the main frame 2001) converts kinetic energy into electrical energy, which may then be stored (e.g., in a battery). The stored energy may be used to power the ECU 2018, the sensors 2040-2042, the vibration source 2052, or any other components that may consume power during filtering and purification operations.

[0125] Example of purification action Various exemplary aspects of the cleaning operation are discussed in relation to Figures 20B, 20E, 20F, 21B, 22B, and 24B. According to some examples herein, the normal filtration operation is stopped before the cleaning operation is initiated. In other examples herein, the filtration operation can continue for at least a portion of the cleaning operation.

[0126] If the filtering operation is stopped before the cleaning operation, the flow does not pass through the main outlet 2032 during the cleaning operation. Some exemplary flow paths during the cleaning operation are shown by the arrows 2031-2033 in Figures 20B, 20E, 20F, 21B, 22B and the arrows 2431-2033 in Figure 24B. During the cleaning operation, the fluid can flow from the clean side of the second filter medium 2014 to the clean side of the first filter medium 2012. During various cleaning operations of the disclosed technology, the fluid flow can enter the main frame 2001 from the second inlet 2031 or the main inlet 2030 to clean the first filter medium 2012. The inlet flow then passes through the second filter medium 2014 from the dirty side to the clean side, thereby cleaning the flow. The purified flow then passes through the first filter medium 2012 from the clean side to the dirty side while a vibration source 2052 (e.g., one or more actuators) is triggered to apply vibration to the first filter medium 2012. As a result of applying such vibration (e.g., by electromechanical, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, etc.) to the first filter medium 2012, particles are released from the dirty side of the first filter medium 2012, as shown in Figures 20E, 21B, 22B, and 24B. The dirty flow may then exit the main frame 2001 via the second outlet 2033 (see Figure 20E). In some cases, instead of the second outlet 2033, the dirty flow may exit the main frame 2001 via the main inlet 2032, as shown in Figure 21B. In some other cases, the filtration system may be a closed system (eg, during a cleaning operation as shown in FIG. 20F, similarly, flow does not exit the main frame 2001 during a cleaning operation).

[0127] During the cleaning operation, depending on the design and application requirements, the second filter medium 2014 may also be cleaned, although this is not required in all cases. The cleaning operation of the second filter medium 2014 can be the same or similar to the cleaning operation described above for the first filter medium 2012 (however, in all the figures above, the relative positions of the first filter medium 2012 and the second filter medium 2014 may be interchanged with respect to the flow path).

[0128] In some cases, during cleaning operation, as flow exits the first filter media 2012 (or 2014), particles exit the filter housing 2010 via the second outlet 2033 (or another outlet). In some applications, if the main frame 2001 has a second inlet 2031, the flow can exit the main frame 2001 via the main inlet 2030, as seen in the example presented in Figures 21A and 21B.

[0129] 20B, during a cleaning operation, in some embodiments, raw flow may enter the filtration system via second inlet 2031 and exit the filtration system via second outlet 2033, with arrows 2031 (to 2010) and 2033 (from 2020) indicating the flow path. In some other embodiments, the filtration system may be a closed system (e.g., flow may not enter or exit the system during a cleaning operation, as shown in FIG. 20F).

[0130] Damper or valve example 21A-21B and 22A-22B illustrate various exemplary flow and filtering arrangements consistent with Figures 20A-20F, which provide the relative locations and states of several dampers or valves for controlling, regulating, or redirecting flow paths during filtering and cleaning operations. For example, Figure 21A illustrates an example of a filtering operation in which raw fluid enters the main frame 2001 via the main inlet 2030 and clean fluid exits the main frame 2001 via the main outlet 2032, assuming that a first damper or valve 2102 is open and a second damper or valve 2104 positioned in the fluid path of the second inlet 2031 is closed.

[0131] 21B further illustrates an example during a cleaning operation where the direction of flow is reversed. Here, for example, the second damper or valve 2104 is opened and the first damper or valve 2102 is closed, and fluid enters the filtration system via the second inlet 2031, passes through the second filter medium 2014 from the dirty side to the clean side, and then the purified flow enters the first filter medium 2012 from the clean side. That is, the fluid first flows through the second filter medium 2014 to further purify the fluid, and then passes through the first filter medium 2012 while vibration is applied to the first filter medium 2012 at 2110 to release particles from the first filter medium 2012. In this example, the damper or valve 2102 is closed to prevent flow into or out of the main outlet 2032 during the cleaning operation.

[0132] 22A and 22B respectively illustrate another example of a filtering operation and a cleaning operation. In FIG. 22A and 22B, two inlets, namely a main inlet 2030 and a second inlet 2031, and two outlets, namely a main outlet 2032 and a second outlet 2033, are shown. Valves or dampers may be used throughout the channels or piping passages to regulate, control, adjust, or redirect the flow path during filtering and cleaning operations. For example, as shown in FIG. 22A and 22B, each inlet and outlet may have a valve or damper to control, adjust, or redirect the flow path. Thus, during normal cleaning operations, a valve 2206 may be placed at the main inlet 2030. Additionally, a valve 2202 may be placed at the primary outlet 2032 set to open, a valve or damper 2204 is placed at the second inlet 2031, and a valve 2208 placed at the second outlet 2033 is set to close. During a purge operation, the main valves 2206 and 2202 are closed and the secondary valves or dampers 2204 and 2208 are open.

[0133] Example of a self-cleaning unit with a flat filter 23A and 23B are schematic diagrams showing closed and exploded views of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system, respectively, consistent with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 23A, an exemplary view of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration device 2310 for an automobile is shown in a closed view, including a main frame 2301, a main inlet 2030, a main outlet 2032, a second outlet 2316, and an exemplary mounting point 2318 (e.g., for mounting to a vehicle). FIG. 23B discloses another view of an exemplary filtration system 2310 consistent with FIG. 23A. Referring to FIG. 23B, an exemplary filter shown in an exploded or enlarged view includes a filter structure 2320 including a first filter medium 2012 and a second filter medium 2014, a shock absorber 2322 that may be attached to the mounting point 2318, a collector 2016 (e.g., for collecting dust, pollen, dirt, etc.) from the airflow, and an air blowing or suction component or compartment 2324, such as a suction blower. This can act as a generator during the filtering operation. In addition, the generator can convert part of the kinetic energy of the flow into electrical energy. In the example shown in FIG. 23B, the first filter medium 2012 and the second filter medium 2014 can be connected to each other or can be separated (not shown). In FIG. 23B, the filter structure is shown in an exploded manner (above the main frame 2301) for illustrative purposes, as well as being positioned or positioned within the lower main frame 2301 of the filtering system 2310.

[0134] 24A and 24B are schematic diagrams depicting cross-sectional views of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration device 2310 illustrating the direction of fluid flow for both filtering (FIG. 24A) and cleaning (FIG. 24B) operations consistent with certain embodiments of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 24A, an example of a filtering operation is shown in which raw air flow coming from a main inlet 2030 travels through a first filter medium 2012 from the dirty side to the clean side, and then the cleaned air exits the filtering system from a main outlet 2032, and the second inlet damper 2404 may be closed. However, in some examples, the raw flow may also be filtered by a second filter medium 2014 during filtering operations, depending on the application.

[0135] 24B, one exemplary cleaning operation is shown in which the outlet damper 2432 is closed and the second inlet damper 2404 is opened while the flow of air through the first filter medium 2012 is reversed. Here, the flow of air utilized to clean the first filter medium 2012 enters through the second inlet 2431, travels through the second filter medium 2014, cleaning the inlet air, which then passes through the first filter medium 2012 in the reverse direction (from the clean side to the dirty side of the filter 2012), thereby removing (e.g., dislodging) particles from the dirty side of the first filter medium 2012 while the filter 2012 is vibrated to extend the life of the first filter medium 2012, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0136] 25 is a diagram showing a cross-sectional view of an exemplary filtration device 2310 having flat filter media consistent with an example of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 25, a cross-sectional view 2500 of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system for a vehicle is shown, including a main inlet 2030, an inlet sensor box 2542, a second inlet and damper 2504, a main outlet 2032, an outlet damper 2502, an outlet sensor box 2548, a filter housing 2510, an actuator 2552, a force conversion compartment 2524 such as a structural rod (e.g., for applying vibrations to the filter), an ECU 2018, a power source 2020, a vibration harvester 2525 (which may convert vibrations to electrical energy), and a particle guide 2517 that guides particles removed from the dirty side of the filter to a collector 2016 during a cleaning operation.

[0137] In some embodiments of the self-cleaning filtration system, the filter media may have some other geometric shapes depending on the application and the space allocated to the filtration system. For example, the filter media may be made in a cylindrical shape, a conical filter, or any other shape. However, the components or compartments may be connected or arranged in the filtration system as disclosed and described in this description and the above-mentioned permutations and drawings.

[0138] According to various embodiments herein, the disclosed technology may be utilized in many other applications (e.g., where particles may not leave the filtration system during the cleaning operation). In some cases, the disclosed systems and methods may be utilized to clean exhaust systems. As a non-limiting example, the disclosed systems and methods may reduce emissions from internal combustion engines, as well as emissions from power plants, by cleaning and improving the efficiency of intake and exit compartments that are used to clean, filter, absorb, destroy, modify, etc., chemical or physical compositions. For example, the disclosed systems and methods may be used in the exhaust systems of any type of automobile, power plant, or the like, among other applications.

[0139] Example of a self-cleaning filtration system with storage 26A-26C are diagrams illustrating an exemplary air filtration system and method consistent with examples of the present disclosure. Referring initially to FIG. 26A, the system includes, among other elements described below, a main frame 2601, two filters (e.g., a first filter medium 2612 and a second filter 2614), one vibration source 2652 (e.g., an actuator, energy source, etc.) that applies vibrations to the filter media 2612 and 2614 during a cleaning operation, an electronic control system (ECU) 2618, various sensors 2642-2648, a main inlet 2630, a main outlet 2632, an electromechanical device or other such device (e.g., a blower) for generating air flow. An exemplary automatic self-cleaning air filtration system is depicted that includes a filter 2622, one or more valves or dampers (as shown elsewhere herein) for controlling or redirecting the flow path through the filtering and cleaning operations, at least one external power source 2620, or an internal power source 2621 such as a battery (e.g., for powering the ECU 2618, sensors 2642-2648, vibration source 2652, or other components), and a collector component 2616 for collecting particles (e.g., dust, droplets, etc.). Figures 26A-20C may have some similarities with Figures 11 or 20A-20F, and thus one or more components or techniques described with respect to Figures 26A-26C may be the same or similar to the components or techniques described with respect to Figures 11 or 20A-20F.

[0140] In some cases, the ECU 2618 may be configured to transmit data to or from the sensors 2642, 2646, 2648 and the vibration source 2652, for example, for various processing or use in the user component 2690. The user component 2690 may be one or more of an operator (e.g., a human operator), at least one computing device, an artificial intelligence (AI), a machine, storage, a cloud-based system or service, etc. In some cases, the ECU 2618 may be configured to control the cleaning operation by algorithms, AI, or machine learning components or techniques via at least one mobile device, such as a mobile phone app, other end-user control mechanism, depending on the application. In some cases, the cleaning operation duration may be controlled as a function of filtration time, filter mass, pressure drop, and other relevant data, system parameters, or the like. Additionally, in some cases, the user component 2690 may override commands from the ECU 2618 (e.g., the user may turn on or off, reprogram, or otherwise control the cleaning operation). The ECU 2618 can send a signal to the component 2690 if something is wrong with the filtration system. All of the sensors 2642-2648 and the vibration source 2652 may be mounted on the main frame 2601. The primary filter medium 2612 and the secondary filter or filter medium 2614 may be positioned in separate flow channels or housings (not shown), or both may be held in one filter structure or one housing. The ECU 2618 may also be located within the main frame 2601 or outside of the main frame 2601, depending on the application. Additionally, in some cases, the sensors 2640-2648 and the vibration source 2652 may be connected to the ECU 2618 via wired or wireless interconnects (all arrows to and from the ECU 2618 represent connections) to allow for the transmission and reception of signals.Additionally, whenever various devices herein are referred to as being connected to the ECU 2618, any or all of such devices may be connected to the ECU 2618 wirelessly or via a wired connection.

[0141] 26A, various exemplary components are shown, such as components that are useful in applications where particles are stored in a filtration system during purification operations. As an example, in this current air purification application, various portable air purification devices can be utilized to purify the air inside a residential, industrial, or commercial environment. For example, in a medical or scientific facility, it may be particularly important to store particles as opposed to releasing them back into the facility. In some cases, such a filtration system may include a body 2601 (in which all components are disposed), a main inlet 2630, a main outlet 2632, a first filter medium 2612, a second filter medium 2614, a collector 2616, an ECU 2618, a vibration source 2652, and a sensor 2646 for measuring the performance or condition of the vibration source 2652, or other sensors for measuring or characterizing the quality of the inlet fluid 2642 and the outlet fluid 2648, at least one source 2622 (e.g., a blower, etc.) for generating flow. In some cases, during filtering operations, the vibration source 2652 may be turned off, but all sensors 2640-2648 may still be active and configured to measure and transmit data to the ECU 2618.

[0142] In some cases, the filtration system consistent with FIG. 26A may require external power, or internal power, such as a battery 2621, to operate. Additionally, in some cases, all components requiring power may be connected directly or indirectly to the ECU 2618, or directly or indirectly to a power source, whether internal or external. In some cases, the ECU 2618 may be configured to control various components of the filtration system, and may be programmed (e.g., by a user) through or at a user component 2690, or may control the filtration system via AI or other machine learning techniques. Examples of user components 2690 may include one or more of an operator, a cloud, an AI component or service, and the like. Additionally, in some cases, the filtration system may include an internal power source 2621, e.g., a battery, and the like.

[0143] During the cleaning operation, particles may be collected in a collector 2616. In some cases, the collector 2616 may be frequently removed from the filtration system, for example to be cleaned or replaced. The filtration system may also have a display system 26100 that displays various data, characteristics, such as performance, inlet and outlet fluid quality, flow rates, operating conditions, etc. In some cases, the ECU 2618 may send or receive data from an app.

[0144] Filtration operation example In Figures 26A-C, 27A, 28A, and 29C, the thick solid arrows (e.g., 2661-2673, 2630, 2761, and 2763) indicate exemplary flow paths within the filtration system. In some cases, during filtration operations, a flow of raw fluid (e.g., air) enters the filter box housing 2610 via a main inlet 2630. In addition to the main inlet 2030, in some cases the raw flow can also enter through a secondary inlet (not shown).

[0145] Referring to FIG. 26A, during a filtration operation, the raw fluid enters the filtration system via the main inlet 2630. The fluid then passes through the first filter media 2612 from the dirty side to the clean side of the filter 2612. As a result, particles are captured on the dirty side of the filter. The purified fluid (e.g., air, etc.) then exits the filtration system via the main outlet 2632. To generate the flow, in some cases, a device such as a blower (e.g., a mechanical device, an electromechanical device, or other device) 2622 can be utilized. In some cases, the device may be placed after the first filter media 2612 or before the first filter media 2612 depending on the application. During the filtration operation, the quality or other characteristics or parameters of the raw fluid and the purified fluid may be measured by sensors 2642 and 2648 before and after purification, respectively. The sensor data measured by sensors 2642 and 2648 may then be transferred to the ECU 2618, which may process the sensor data for display to a user (e.g., via one or more displays 26100, or other devices) or transmit it to a user component 2690, in some cases.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 26B, in some cases, the filtration system may include a sterilization system 2692 for destroying, killing, removing, etc., certain pathogens. Such a sterilization system 2692 may be located before or after the first filter medium 2612. In some cases, sterilization may be performed on the filter medium 2612 or 2614 (e.g., the filter medium 2612 or 2614 may be coated with a material that destroys pathogens). Additionally, the filtration system may include a heater, cooler, or humidifier. The sterilization system 2692 may also be connected to the ECU 2618 and may be controlled or programmed by the user component 2690 (e.g., via a mobile phone app, computer, tablet, or any other method). The quality of the fluid and the status of the filtration system may be processed, transmitted, or displayed (e.g., shown on the display system 26100) or otherwise fed back and utilized to monitor or improve operation.

[0147] In some cases, the sterilization system 2692 may be located either before or after the first filter media 2612 depending on the application. The sterilization system 2692 may destroy, absorb, remove, etc., the pathogens or any particles using radiation, waves, energy sources, or other treatment techniques such as UV, heat, cold plasma, electric charge, chemical reactions, etc. Additionally, in some cases, the filter media 2612 or 2614 may be coated with some material that may sterilize, destroy, or otherwise treat the pathogens (e.g., using some chemical compounds that may use radiation to accelerate the rate of sterilization). In some cases, temperature or humidity control may be added to regulate the outlet flow 2632.

[0148] 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, and 29C illustrate typical air filtration / flow operations such as 2700 and 2740. During such filtration operations (e.g., thick solid arrows from 2761 and 2763), raw flow enters the filtration system via main inlet 2730 and purified flow exits the filtration system via main outlet 2732. Raw fluid enters the filtration system via main inlet 2730. The fluid then passes through first filter media 2612 from the dirty side to the clean side. As a result, particles are captured on the dirty side of first filter media 2612. According to some cases, control of the fluid flow (e.g., air, etc.) from main inlet 2130 to first filter media 2612 can be controlled via dampers 2702, 2704, 2904, 2910, 2914, 2916, 2918, and 2934. The fluid (e.g., air, etc.) then exits the filtration system via the main outlet 2632. Additionally, in some cases, a second damper, valve, etc. (e.g., damper 2704) may be closed or blocked, thereby isolating and preventing flow to or through undesired paths (e.g., damper 2704 can block fluid from flowing to the second filter media 2614 during a filtration operation).

[0149] Example of purification action In Figures 26A-26C, 27B, 28B, and 29D, the thicker dashed arrows (e.g., between 2681 and 2683) indicate examples of flow paths that can enter from either the main or secondary inlet and leave from either the main or secondary outlet during purification operations, depending on the application and design.

[0150] According to various cases herein, during a cleaning operation, in order to clean the first filter medium 2612, the flow of the first filter medium 2612 is reversed (flow enters the first filter medium 2612 from the clean side and exits from the dirty side). With reference to FIG. 26A, a source 2622 can be used to generate this reverse flow. The thick dashed arrows show possible flow paths of one exemplary cleaning operation. During a cleaning operation, the flow is directed from the clean side to the dirty side of the first filter medium 2612 while the vibration source 2652 applies vibration to the first filter medium 2612. As a result, particles are released from the dirty side of the first filter medium 2612. Then, as the flow exits the first filter medium 2612, it can pass through one or more collectors 2616, which can collect larger particles (or other specifically targeted particles). The flow then passes from the dirty side to the clean side through the second filter medium 2614, which captures smaller particles (or other specifically targeted particles, as well). The flow then enters the clean side of the first filter medium 2612. This cycle is repeated as long as the first filter medium 2612 meets a target, which may be defined by a controller, a user, or an AI (e.g., in the user component 2690). In some cases, the target may be based on time of use, pressure change or drop, or any other criteria. As shown in FIG. 26A, the same electromechanical device 2622 may be used to generate a flow during a filtration operation as to generate a reverse flow during a purification operation, or other flow devices may be utilized as described elsewhere herein.

[0151] As shown in FIG. 26A, the cleaning operation (see thick dashed arrow) may be a closed system (e.g., no flow enters the filtration system, and no flow exits the filtration system during the cleaning operation). Furthermore, in some such cases, particles may be removed from the dirty side of the first filter medium 2612 and collected in a collector 2616 or captured on the dirty side of the second filter medium 2614. In such an operation, the first filter medium 2612 may become cleaner, and thus the cleaning aspects of the first filter medium 2612 (e.g., cost, need for filters, timing between replacements or service, etc.) are improved.

[0152] During various exemplary cleaning operations, as shown in FIG. 26B, one or more pre-filters 2616 can be positioned between the dirty side of the first filter medium 2612 and the dirty side of the second filter medium 2614 (before the second filter 2614) to capture particles during cleaning operations. Also, in some cases, one or more disinfection devices 2692 may be positioned before or after the first filter medium 2612, somewhere in the channel, in the piping or passageway, or the like, to destroy, filter, etc., pathogens during cleaning and filtering operations. As one illustrative example, FIG. 26B shows that the disinfection system 2692 can be positioned between the first filter medium 2612 and the second pre-filter 2694, although other arrangements or configurations are within the scope of the systems and methods discussed herein.

[0153] As shown in FIG. 26B, the second filter medium 2614 may also be connected to a second source 2654 for applying vibration to or otherwise removing particles from the second filter medium 2614. Also, in some cases, the sensor 2640 may send a signal to the ECU 2618 to report the status of the second vibration source 2654. Cleaning of the second filter 2614 may occur without backflow. Additionally, in some implementations, a sensor 2641 may be connected to the collector 2616 to report the status of the collector 2616 (e.g., the integrity of the collector 2616) to the ECU 2618.

[0154] As shown in FIG. 26C, the purification operation may be an open system (e.g., flow enters the filtration system via the main inlet 2630, or the second inlet 2631, or the main outlet, and flow exits via the second outlet 2633, the main outlet 2632, or the main inlet 2630). As shown in FIG. 26C, the thick dashed arrows indicate an exemplary flow path for the purification operation of the filtration system. Here, for example, the raw flow may pass through the pre-filter 2695, pass through the disinfection system 2692, enter the main filter medium 2612 from the clean side, leave the filter medium 2612 from the dirty side, and pass through the disinfection system 2692 again. In such a case, at least a portion of the particles may head to the collector 2616, at least a portion of the particles may be captured by the second pre-filter 2694, and at least a portion of the particles may be captured by the second filter medium 2614. The purified fluid can then exit the filtration system through the secondary outlet 2683 or the main outlet 2632 during the purification operation.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 26C, another exemplary flow path during a cleaning operation is shown by the thicker dashed arrows between 2681, 2682, and 2683. In some cases, the raw fluid (or pre-cleaned fluid) may enter the clean side of the first filter medium 2612 while the first filter medium 2612 is being vibrated, rocked, vibrated, energy impinged, etc. Thus, particles may be discharged from the dirty side of the first filter medium 2612 and collected in the collector 2616 or captured by the dirty side of the second pre-filter 2694 or the second filter medium 2614. In such a case, the cleaned fluid may exit the filtration system during a cleaning operation as well. In some cases, during a cleaning operation, the inlet flow may enter the filtration system from the second inlet 2631 and the cleaned flow may exit the filtration system from the second outlet 2633. However, in some cases, the second inlet 2631 and the second outlet 2633 may be the same as the main inlet 2630 and the main outlet 2632, respectively, during filtration operation (see, for example, Figures 23C and 23D, where fluid enters and exits the filtration system through the same inlets and outlets).

[0156] 27B and 28B show cleaning operations 2720 and 2750, respectively. FIG. 27B and FIG. 28B include exemplary dampers or valves for controlling or redirecting the flow. Referring to FIG. 27B, an exemplary cleaning operation of the system is shown in which the flow enters the filtration system through the main outlet 2732 during the cleaning operation. In the example shown in FIG. 21B, the flow of fluid is reversed and the primary damper 2702 is closed. In addition, the second damper 2704 is opened so that the reverse flow of fluid flows in the opposite direction from the clean side through the first filter medium 2612 (e.g., during vibration). Particles thereby dislodged from the first filter medium 2612 then move through the opened second damper 2704 to the second outlet 2733. Thus, the particles are captured on the dirty side of the second filter medium 2614 before the fluid exits the filtration system. As a result, the purified fluid can exit the filtration system during the cleaning operation.

[0157] Referring to FIG. 28B, FIG. 28B illustrates yet another conduit system and method that contrasts with that of FIG. 27B in that there are two inlets 2730 and 2831 and two outlets 2732 and 2733. During a filtration operation, raw fluid can enter the filtration system via the main inlet 2730 and the purified fluid can exit the filtration system via the main outlet 2132. Additionally, during a purification operation, fluid can enter through the second inlet 2831 and the purified fluid can exit the filtration system via the second outlet 2733 after the lower particles are captured by the second filter 2614. In some cases, various valves or dampers may control or redirect the flow by opening and closing in some manner during the purification and filtration operations. For example, dampers 2702 and 2803 can be closed during a cleaning operation to prevent fluid from entering the main inlet 2130 and the main outlet 2132, respectively, and dampers 2805 and 2704 can be opened during a cleaning operation to allow fluid to enter through the second inlet 2831 and exit through the second outlet 2133. In some cases, during a cleaning operation, the outlet fluid may be purified before exiting the filtration system. As an example, as shown in Figures 26C, 27B, 28B, and 29D, the outlet fluid can pass through a second filter medium 2614 before exiting the filtration system during a cleaning operation.

[0158] Dampers and Valves Additionally, according to one or more of the disclosed systems and methods, the filtration system can have one or more dampers or valves for controlling, directing, or redirecting flow to the right channels or piping during filtration and purification operations. In some cases, the dampers or valves may be connected to or controlled by the ECU 2618.

[0159] Example of portable air purifier implementation 29A-29D are diagrams illustrating an exemplary operation of one example of a portable air purification system 2900 consistent with examples of the present disclosure. FIG. 29A illustrates an exterior of an air purifier 2900 consistent with some embodiments. FIG. 29B illustrates a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of an air purification system 2900 including one or more of a main frame 2901, a fan / blower / motor system 2902, a first damper 2904, a first air line 2906, a second filter 2614, a second damper 2910, a collector 2912, one or more outlet sensors 2914, a second air line 2916, a third air line 2918, a fourth air line 2920, a main filtration system 2930, one or more inlet sensors 2932, a third damper 2934, an ECU or power system 2936, and one or more pre-filters 2938. Additionally, one or more post-filters may be utilized after the main filter 2930, as described elsewhere herein.

[0160] In some cases, main filter 2930 may include a filter housing, a reinforcing structure, one or more vibration sources for applying vibrations to main filter 2930, and additional sensors. Main filter 2930 may be the same as or similar to various filtration systems discussed herein, such as in Figures 7A-7D or 10A-10C.

[0161] 29C and 29D respectively illustrate an example of a filtering operation 2910 and an exemplary cleaning operation 2920 for the air purification system 2900 shown in FIG. 29A and FIG. 29B. The flow path of the filtering operation 2910 is shown in FIG. 29C by the solid thick arrows 2761 to 2763. The raw fluid enters the air purification system 2900 from the main inlet 2130. In some cases, the raw flow may then pass through a pre-filter and then through the main filter 2930 from the dirty side to the clean side. After particles are captured or filtered by the main filter 2930, the purified air exits the air purification system 2900 via the main outlet 2912. A blower may be placed before or after the main filter 2930 to generate the flow. Further, in some cases, at least a portion of the sensors (e.g., outlet sensor 2914 or inlet sensor 2934) may measure or characterize the raw flow and purified air before and after filtration by the air purification system 2900. In some cases, the ECU 2936 may process or transmit data to one or more devices or computing components (e.g., a display system, a cloud, a user, a mobile device, etc.). Parameters such as speed, humidity, temperature, sterilization system or results may be controlled (e.g., by the ECU 2936, an end user, a program, an AI, etc.) by wireless or wired connections. The data may be stored within the ECU 2936 or elsewhere, such as the cloud. The flow may be directed through the conduits by several valves or dampers (e.g., damper 2916) to control and direct the flow path during purification and filtration operations. During filtration operations, the damper 2916 may be closed to block air from entering the collector 2912. Additionally, the damper 2918 may be closed to prevent unpurified air from exiting the air purification system 2900.

[0162] Referring to FIG. 29D, an exemplary cleaning operation is illustrated depicting an open system (eg, raw air enters the air purification system 2900 and purified air exits the air purification system 2900 during the cleaning operation).

[0163] 29A-29D show one exemplary air purifier, air purification system 2900, by way of example and not limitation, although the disclosed systems and methods may be utilized in a variety of other applications, such as HVAC systems for residential and industrial environments, filtration systems in aircraft, submarines and other watercraft, space shuttles, and any other application where particles are maintained in the filtration system during purification operations or are stored in the filtration system (e.g., may be collected and stored in a collector).

[0164] 29A-29D show one exemplary air purifier, air cleaning system 2900 by way of example and not limitation, however, the disclosed system and method may be utilized in various other geometric shapes, configurations, and implementations. Among other examples, the filter may be flat, cylindrical, conical, or any other geometric shape depending on the application and design. In some cases, the cleaning operation may be initiated when no motion is detected near the filtration system (e.g., no person near the air purifier). Here, for example, one or more sensors such as motion detectors, sound detectors, heat detectors, etc. may be used to detect human presence. Thus, in such cases, the cleaning operation may be stopped when someone enters the area of ​​the air purifier. Also, the cleaning operation may be equipped with AI or machine learning that may determine how the cleaning operation will work (e.g., start time, stop time, duration of filtration, flow rate, temperature, humidity, etc.) based on its algorithms.

[0165] According to various cases herein, the disclosed systems and methods may be utilized in many other applications, for example, where particles are stored or maintained in a filtration system during a purification operation. In some cases, for example, the disclosed systems and methods may be utilized to purify an exhaust system. As a non-limiting example, the disclosed systems and methods may reduce emissions from an internal combustion engine or a power plant (e.g., by purifying and improving the efficiency of intake and exhaust compartments used to purify, filter, absorb, destroy, change chemical or physical composition, etc.). For example, the disclosed systems and methods may be used in the exhaust systems of any type of automobile, power plant, or the like, among other uses.

[0166] Example of a filter element with a grill FIG 30 illustrates an exploded view of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG 30 illustrates a grill 3010, a filter media 3020, and a main frame 3030. The filtration system of FIG 30 may be the same or similar in one or more respects to various filtration systems discussed herein.

[0167] The grille 3010 can serve a similar purpose as the various reinforcing structures discussed herein (e.g., reinforcing structure 720 of FIG. 7A). For example, the grille 3010 can protect and reinforce the filter media 3020 (e.g., the filter media 3020 can be flexible or fragile). Additionally, the grille 3010 can help transfer vibrations from a vibration source to the filter media 3020. The grille 3010 includes two threads as shown. The two threads can help secure the grille 3010 to the filter housing 3030 with the filter media 3020 sandwiched between them. Thus, the filter media 3020 can be secured and held securely during filtering and cleaning operations. When the life of the filter media 3020 is fulfilled, the threads can be released to remove and replace the filter media 3020.

[0168] The filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030 can serve a similar purpose as the various filter housings discussed herein (e.g., filter housing 705 in FIG. 7A). The grille may be made of a material (e.g., metal) that is more rigid than the filter media 3020. For example, the filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030 can protect and reinforce the filter media 3020 (e.g., the filter media 3020 can be flexible or fragile). The filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030 can also transmit / transmit mechanical vibrations, mechanical waves to the filter media to facilitate particle release during the cleaning operation. As shown, the main frame 3030 can include an integrated actuator for applying vibrations to the filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030, which in turn applies vibrations to the filter media 3020. Also, as shown, the filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030 can further include an integrated reinforcing structure for supporting the bottom side of the filter media 3020.

[0169] In some cases, the filter media 3020 may be disposed between the grill 3010 and the filter housing or reinforcing structure 3030. In some cases, the filter media 3020 may be secured via screws or any other mechanism to hold the grill 3010 and the filter housing and reinforcing structure 3030 together, such that the filter media 3020 has no or very little relative movement.

[0170] FIG. 31 illustrates an exemplary process for assembling a filter structure using an upper grill and a bottom grill (one or both of which may be the same or similar to the grill 3010 of FIG. 30) consistent with some examples of the present disclosure. At 3100A, a first filter medium is inserted into the upper grill to form an upper filter structure. At 3200B, a second filter medium is inserted into the bottom grill to form a lower filter structure. Then, at 3200C, the upper filter structure and the lower filter structure are inserted into each other to form a filter structure that is rigid, for example due to the upper and lower grills, and includes two filter media. The filter structure presents several advantages. For example, the rigidity of the structure may allow the filter structure to be used in more unpredictable or harsh environments (e.g., construction equipment, off-road vehicles, etc.). As another advantage, it provides an easy and user-friendly experience when the filter medium needs to be replaced. In another example, the dual filtration characteristics of the filter structure may improve the filter capacity of the filter structure.

[0171] Further embodiments of the collector FIG. 32 shows two perspective views of another exemplary self-cleaning filtration system 3200 consistent with exemplary embodiments of some examples of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 32 shows the filtration system 3200 in a view visible by the human eye and in a semi-transparent view. For ease of description, FIG. 32 is described herein with reference to the semi-transparent view. The filtration system 3200 may be the same or similar in one or more respects to the various filtration systems discussed herein. The filtration system 3200 may further include an outlet 3205, a grill 3215, an inlet 3220, and a collector 3225. Particles may be collected in the collector 3225 during the cleaning process. The collector 3225 may need to be emptied frequently by a human or some actuator, depending on the application and design.

[0172] During a filtering operation, fluid may flow upward from the inlet 3220, through the mesh filter structure 3210, and out the outlet 3205. Thus, particles may accumulate (e.g., diffuse, permeate, attach, adhere, accumulate, be captured) on the underside of the filter media compartment 3210, forming a dirty side. During a cleaning operation, the actuator may generate mechanical waves, vibrations, forces, etc. (e.g., using any of the methods for generating or controlling fluid flow discussed herein) to apply vibration to the filter media as discussed in detail above, from the inlet 3220 to the mesh filter structure 3210 and out the terminal 3205. In some cases, the mesh filter 3210 may be subjected to vibration in addition to or instead of reverse flow. During a cleaning operation, at least a portion of the particles may be removed from the dirty side of the mesh filter structure 3210 as a result of one or both of applying vibration to the mesh filter structure 3210 or reverse flow. The particles may fall through the grill 3215 into the collector 3225. In some cases, the grill 3215 may be open during a cleaning operation and closed during a filtering operation. For example, the grill 3215 may be closed during a filtering operation and open during a cleaning operation. The filter compartment 3210 may be described in further detail with respect to Figures 33A, 33B, 34A, and 34B.

[0173] 35 illustrates an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system 3500 having a filter structure 3510, a grill 3530, and a collector 3540 consistent with exemplary embodiments of certain examples of the present disclosure. The filter compartment 3510, the grill 3530, and the collector 3540 may each be the same as or similar to their respective elements described with respect to FIG. 32 and elsewhere herein.

[0174] In some cases, the vibration process may be designed to prevent particles 3520 from reaccumulating in the filter compartment 3510 during vibration and / or the filtration process. In some cases, the filter compartment 3510 is vibrated such that the applied force has one component in the Z direction (Z axis defined as being perpendicular to the ground (here the ground is parallel to the XY plane) and the positive Z direction is defined as being the positive direction of the Earth's gravity, from bottom to top). During the cleaning operation, the component of the net force applied in the Z direction on the filter compartment 3510 in the Z direction, Fz, can be zero or positive to reduce diffusion of particles into the filter media. The net acceleration of the particles in the Z direction (assuming operation in a vacuum) is equal to g+a, where g is the acceleration of gravity of the Earth (-9.81 m / s 2 ), where a is the value of the acceleration of the particles due to the reverse flow in the Z direction. When a vibrating force is applied to the filter housing or reinforcing structure, the frequency of the net load applied in the Z direction can be set lower than V(|g+α| / 2X), where X is the maximum distance the filter structure 3510 moves during half a cycle of vibration.

[0175] 33A and 33B show perspective and exploded views, respectively, of an exemplary self-cleaning filtration system 3300 consistent with exemplary embodiments of certain examples of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 34B, the filtration system 3300 includes a reinforcement structure 3305, a sealing element 3310, a top mesh 3315, a filter media 3320, a bottom mesh 3325, and a filter housing 3330. The reinforcement structure 3305, the sealing element 3310, the filter media 3320, and the filter housing 3330 can each be the same or similar to their respective components described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0176] The top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 can serve a similar purpose as the reinforcement structures described herein (e.g., reinforcement structure 720 of FIG. 7A). The top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 may be made of metal, plastic, polymer, composite, or any other structural material, or a combination of materials. In some cases, the top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 may allow for indirect application of vibration-applying forces from one or more vibration sources (e.g., actuators) to the filter media 3320, thereby reducing vibration-induced distortion and potential damage to the filter media 3320. The top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 may further assist the filter media 3320 in maintaining its shape and structure, especially during the vibration-applying process. The top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh 3325, due to their geometric shapes, may allow particles to flow largely unimpeded through the top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh 3325. The top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 may be molded with an overall contour that matches the contour of the filter media 3320, which as shown is a zigzag shape.

[0177] 34A and 34B show an example self-cleaning filtration system having a rotary eccentric mass actuator and a linear mass actuator, respectively, consistent with exemplary embodiments of some examples of the present disclosure. In FIG. 34A and FIG. 34B, a rotary actuator and a linear actuator are applied to the self-cleaning filtration system, respectively. The mesh in the self-cleaning filtration system of FIG. 34A may allow the actuator to effectively apply vibrations to the filter medium contained therein while reducing the risk of damaging the filter medium. In some cases, one or more damping springs may be present between the top mesh reinforcement structure 3315 and the filter medium 3320, or between the bottom mesh reinforcement structure 3325 and the filter medium 3320.

[0178] In Fig. 34A, a rotary eccentric mass actuator may be used. To provide vibration in the desired direction, the rotational direction of the rotary actuator may be in the opposite direction, thereby counteracting motion in the undesired direction. In Fig. 34B, a linear actuator with an attached mass may induce vibration. In some cases, the relative acceleration vector may be positive between the dirty side of the filter media and a reinforcing structure (e.g., mesh as shown) or housing, preventing diffusion of particles into the filter media due to the imposed vibration (as described with respect to Figs. 4D and 35).

[0179] Example of an autonomous vacuum unit 36A and 36B show an example autonomous vacuum unit implementing an example self-cleaning filtration system consistent with some example embodiments of the present disclosure. The systems and methods for self-cleaning filtration systems described herein may be particularly suitable for autonomous vacuum unit implementation in that the systems and methods may require less frequent maintenance or human intervention. Thus, the autonomous vacuum unit depicted in FIG. 36A and 36B may include a self-cleaning filtration system, which may be the same or similar to one or more filtration systems described herein.

[0180] In some cases, the filtration operation of the filtration system may be performed while the autonomous vacuum unit is cleaning (e.g., cleaning the floor). Conversely, once the autonomous vacuum unit has completed cleaning the floor (e.g., when the autonomous vacuum unit is at the station), the filtration system may undergo one or more of the cleaning operations discussed herein. For example, the filtration system in the autonomous vacuum unit may use a technique of applying vibration (e.g., as described herein) to clean the filter media in the autonomous vacuum unit while the autonomous vacuum unit is at the station. In some cases, reverse flow may be used in addition to applying vibration to enhance the cleaning operation of the filter media at the station. In some cases, the autonomous vacuum unit may include multiple filter media (e.g., as described in connection with Figures 19A-19C) such that one or more filter media may be in a filtration operation while one or more other filter media may be in a cleaning operation. In such cases, the autonomous vacuum unit may be capable of cleaning for an extended period of time (e.g., 12 hours or more) and may be limited by the power capacity of the autonomous vacuum unit, rather than by the condition of the filter in the autonomous vacuum unit. In some cases, when the filter media in an autonomous vacuum unit reaches the end of its life, (i) the filter media or (ii) the filter media and a supporting structure or filter housing (not including the actuator, main frame, etc.) may be replaced.

[0181] Performance data example 37A, 37B, 37C, and 37D illustrate various schematic and exemplary performance data 3700A-3700D for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with examples of the present disclosure. The exemplary schematic performance data 3700A-3700D may include schematic performance data corresponding to (i) a conventional filtration system, and (ii) a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with examples of the present disclosure.

[0182] FIG. 37A includes exemplary schematic performance data 3700A plotting accumulated mass on the filter media as a function of time. The accumulated mass represents the mass captured by the filter media due to particles accumulating on the filter media. As time increases, as shown in the schematic performance data 3700A, the conventional filtration system increases the accumulated mass at a decreasing rate as it approaches particle saturation. The self-cleaning filtration system increases the accumulated mass at a slower rate than the conventional filtration system, and in a zigzag pattern, as shown in the experimental performance data 3700A. In the zigzag pattern, each lower portion may correspond to a cleaning action (e.g., applying vibration to the filter media in the self-cleaning filtration system).

[0183] 37B includes exemplary summary performance data 3700B plotting flow rate as a function of time. Flow rate represents the amount of fluid that can flow through the filter media during a filtering operation. As shown in summary performance data 3700A, as time increases, the conventional filtering system increases the accumulated mass, and therefore, in the conventional filtering system, the flow rate may decrease over time. The self-cleaning filtering system decreases the flow rate at a slower rate (also with a zigzag pattern, which may correspond to a cleaning operation) than the conventional filtering system.

[0184] 37C includes exemplary summary performance data 3700C plotting operating costs as a function of time. The operating costs may represent the power or energy consumed during filtration operations as well as the cost of replacing filters. As shown in summary performance data 3700A, as time increases, the conventional filtration system increases accumulated mass, and therefore the conventional filtration system suffers from increasing operating costs. The self-cleaning filtration system increases accumulated mass at a slower rate than the conventional filtration system, as shown in summary performance data 3700A, and therefore the self-cleaning filtration system increases operating costs at a slower rate (again with a zigzag pattern that may correspond to a cleaning operation) than the conventional filtration system.

[0185] 37D includes exemplary summary performance data 3700D plotting overall performance as a function of time. Overall performance represents the cumulative effect of cumulative mass, flow rate, and operating cost plotted against experimental performance data 3700A, 3700B, and 3700C, respectively. As time increases, the overall performance of the conventional filtration system decreases, as shown in summary performance data 3700D. The self-cleaning filtration system also decreases in overall performance, as shown in experimental performance data 3700D, but at a much lower rate (again, with a zigzag pattern that may correspond to a cleaning operation) than the conventional filtration system.

[0186] FIG. 38 is an exemplary schematic diagram of operational cost data for a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with exemplary embodiments of some examples of the present disclosure. FIG. 38 includes an exemplary schematic diagram of operational cost data 3800 plotting cost as a function of time for both (i) a conventional filtration system and (ii) a self-cleaning filtration system consistent with examples of the present disclosure. The operational cost data 3800 represents the amount of time that a filter medium can be used before being replaced, based on power costs and filter costs. As shown, it is cost-effective to replace filter medium in conventional filtration systems and self-cleaning filtration systems when the total cost of the conventional filtration system and the self-cleaning filtration system is equal to 0.3 per unit time. As shown in the operational life data 3800, the filter medium of a conventional filtration system can be replaced in half the time that the filter medium of a self-cleaning filtration system can be replaced. In doubling the life of the filter medium, the self-cleaning filtration system reduces costs as well as waste and use of excess filter medium. In some cases, the life of the filter medium can be extended by an order of tens of times, depending on the application and design.

[0187] Example of a Computer System 39 illustrates a computer system 3901 that is programmed or otherwise configured to operate any method, system, computer-readable medium, process, or technique described herein (such as the self-filtering system or method described herein). For example, computer system 3901 can be the same as or similar to ECU1118, ECU2018, ECU2618, or ECU2936 (or an implementation thereof).

[0188] The computer system 3901 can coordinate various aspects of the present disclosure. The computer system 3901 can be a user's electronic device or a computer system located remotely to the electronic device. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device.

[0189] The computer system 3901 includes a central processing system (CPU is also a "processor" and "computer processor" herein) 3905, which may be a single-core or multi-core processor, or multiple processors for parallel processing. The computer system 3901 also includes memory or memory locations 3910 (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), an electronic storage system 3915 (e.g., hard disk), a communication interface 3920 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 3925, such as cache, other memory, data storage, or electronic display adapters. The memory 3910, the storage system 3915, the interface 3920, and the peripheral devices 3925 communicate with the CPU 3905 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage system 3915 may be a data storage system (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 3901 may be operatively coupled to a computer network ("network") 3930 using the communication interface 3920. The network 3930 may be the Internet, an Internet or extranet, or an intranet or extranet in communication with the Internet. The network 3930 may be a telecommunications or data network in some cases. The network 3930 may include one or more computer servers that may enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 3930 may implement a peer-to-peer network in some cases that may enable devices coupled to the computer system 3901 to act as clients or servers with the help of the computer system 3901.

[0190] The CPU 3905 can execute sequences of machine-readable instructions, which may be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 3910. The instructions may be directed to the CPU 3905, which can then program or otherwise configure the CPU 3905 to perform the methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 3905 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

[0191] The CPU 3905 may be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 3901 may be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0192] Storage system 3915 can store files such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. Storage system 3915 can store user data, such as user preferences and user programs. Computer system 3901 can optionally include one or more additional data storage systems external to computer system 3901, such as located on a remote server in communication with computer system 3901 via an intranet or the Internet.

[0193] The computer system 3901 can communicate with one or more remote computer systems via the network 3930. For example, the computer system 3901 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include a personal computer (e.g., a portable PC), a slate or tablet PC (e.g., an Apple® iPad, a Samsung® Galaxy Tab), a phone, a smartphone (e.g., an Apple® iPhone, an Android-enabled device, a Blackberry®), or a personal digital assistant. A user can access the computer system 3901 via the network 3930.

[0194] Methods as described herein can be implemented by machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 3901, such as, for example, on memory 3910 or electronic storage system 3915. The machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software. In use, the code can be executed by the processor 3905. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage system 3915 and stored on the memory 3910 for easy access by the processor 3905. In some circumstances, the electronic storage system 3915 can be eliminated and the machine executable instructions stored on the memory 3910.

[0195] The code may be precompiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or may be compiled during run-time. The code may be supplied in a programming language that may be selected to allow the code to be executed in a precompiled or as compiled manner.

[0196] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as computer system 3901, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology can be considered as a "product" or "article of manufacture," typically in the form of machine (or processor) executable code, or associated data carried on or embodied in some type of machine-readable medium. The machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage system, such as a memory (e.g., read-only memory, random access memory, flash memory) or hard disk. A "storage" type medium can include any or all of the tangible memory of a computer, a processor, or its associated modules, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives, etc., which can provide non-transitory storage at any time for software programming. All or portions of the software may be communicated from time to time over the Internet or various other telecommunications networks. Such communication may, for example, enable loading of the software from one computer or processor to another, for example, from a management server or host computer to a computer platform of an application server. Thus, other types of media that may carry software elements include optical, electrical, and electromagnetic waves, such as those used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks, and over various air links. Physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links, etc., may also be considered software-bearing media. As used herein, unless limited to non-transitory, tangible "storage" media, terms such as computer or machine "readable medium" refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0197] Thus, machine-readable media such as computer executable code (e.g., computer readable media) may take many forms, including, but not limited to, tangible storage media, carrier wave media, or physical transmission media. Non-volatile storage media include optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer, such as may be used to implement, for example, the databases shown in the figures. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as the main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that make up a bus within a computer system. Carrier wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Thus, common forms of computer readable media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, a DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with a pattern of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave carrying data or instructions, a cable or link carrying such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read programming code or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0198] The computer system 3901 can include or communicate with an electronic display 3935 with a user interface (LT) 3940. Examples of the UF include, but are not limited to, graphical user interfaces (GUI) and web-based user interfaces.

[0199] The methods and systems of the present disclosure may be implemented by one or more algorithms. The algorithms may be implemented by software when executed by the central processing system 3905.

[0200] Example of how to 40 illustrates an exemplary method 4000 for self-cleaning media consistent with certain examples of the present disclosure. The method may include (a) filtering a fluid through a filter media having a clean side and a dirty side, thereby accumulating particles from the fluid on the dirty side (block 4005); and (b) applying vibrations by one or more vibration sources to one or both of (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter media, or (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter media, thereby vibrating the filter media, thereby removing at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter media (block 4010). Method 4000 may implement one or more of the systems, methods, computer-readable media, techniques, processes, operations, etc. described herein.

[0201] Further considerations While various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It is understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed.

[0202] Whenever the terms "at least," "greater than," or "greater than or equal to" precede a first number in a series of two or more numbers, the terms "at least," "greater than," or "greater than or equal to" apply to each and every number in the series. For example, 1, 2, or 3 or more is equivalent to 1 or more, 2 or more, or 3 or more.

[0203] Whenever the term "no more than," "less than," or "less than or equal to" precedes a first number in a series of two or more numbers, the term "no more than," "less than," or "less than or equal to" applies to each and every number in the series. For example, 3, 2, or 1 or less is equivalent to 3 or less, 2 or less, or 1 or less.

[0204] Any reference herein to the term "or" is intended to mean what is also known as "inclusive or" or "logical OR" and when used as a logical sentence, the phrase "A or B" is understood to be true when either A or B is true, or when used as a list of elements when both A and B are true. The phrase "A, B or C" is intended to include all combinations of the elements listed in the phrase, e.g., any element selected from the group consisting of A, B, C, (A, B), (A, C), (B, C), and (A, B, C), and so forth, if additional elements are listed. Furthermore, it is also understood that the indefinite article "a" or "an" and the corresponding associated definite article "the" or "said", respectively, are intended to mean one or more, unless otherwise stated, implied, or physically impossible. Furthermore, it will be understood that the phrases "at least one of A and B, etc.", "at least one of A or B, etc.", "selected from A and B, etc.", and "selected from A or B, etc." are each intended to mean either any listed element individually or any combination of two or more elements, such as, for example, any of the elements from the group consisting of "A," "B," and "A and B together," etc.

[0205] Certain inventive embodiments herein contemplate numerical ranges. When a range exists, the range includes the end points of the range. Furthermore, all subranges and values ​​within the range exist as if explicitly written out. The term "about" or "approximately" may mean within an acceptable error range of a value that depends in part on how the value is measured or determined, e.g., the limitations of the measurement system. For example, "about" may mean within 1 or more than 1 standard deviation, as is customary in the art. Alternatively, "about" may mean within a range of up to 20%, up to 10%, up to 5%, or up to 1% of a given value. When values ​​are described in this application and claims, unless otherwise stated, the term "about" may be assumed to mean within an acceptable error range for the particular value.

[0206] It should be noted that the various example or suggested ranges described herein are specific to those example embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope or reach of the disclosed technology, as well as provide only example ranges of frequencies, amplitudes, etc. associated with their respective embodiments or use cases.

[0207] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. The present invention is not intended to be limited by the specific examples provided herein. Although the present invention has been described with reference to the foregoing specification, the description and illustration of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. Furthermore, it should be understood that all aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations, or relative proportions described herein, which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be employed in carrying out the present invention. It is therefore contemplated that the present invention shall also encompass any such alternatives, modifications, variations, or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the present invention, and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents are covered thereby.

Claims

1. 1. A self-cleaning filtration system comprising: the filter medium comprising a clean side of the filter medium and a dirty side of the filter medium, the dirty side of the filter medium configured to accumulate particles from a fluid during a filtering operation on the fluid; one or both of (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter media, or (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter media; one or more vibration sources configured to apply vibration to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter media, thereby vibrating the filter media and dislodging at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter media; A self-cleaning filtration system.

2. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, further comprising one or more flow stream sources configured to remove at least one of the particles from the dirty side of the filter medium by directing a flow stream from the clean side of the filter medium to the dirty side of the filter medium by one or more valves or one or more dampers.

3. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, further comprising a second filter material, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibrations to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter material, thereby vibrating the second filter material while it performs a second filtration operation on a second fluid, and the second filter material is in physical contact with one or both of (i) the second filter housing or (ii) the second reinforcing structure.

4. (i) the filter media is oriented so that the clean side of the filter media is in a first position and the dirty side of the filter media is in a second position, the first position being at a higher gravitational potential than the second position; (ii) the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibration to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter media at a downward acceleration that does not exceed the acceleration of gravity of the Earth; The self-cleaning filtration system of claim 1 .

5. The one or more vibration sources include one or more high frequency actuators configured to apply vibrations to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter material at a frequency between 10 kHz and 200 kHz; (i) the one or more high frequency actuators include one or both of a piezoelectric actuator or an ultrasonic transducer; or (ii) the one or more high frequency actuators are mechanically coupled to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter media; 2. The self-cleaning filtration system of claim 1, wherein:

6. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibration to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter material along a normal vector of the dirty side of the filter material with a vibration force having a zero or negative component, and the positive direction of the normal vector is defined from the dirty side of the filter material to the clean side of the filter material.

7. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, further comprising one or more elastic components mechanically coupled to one or both of the filter housing or the reinforcing structure, wherein the one or more vibration sources comprise one or more low-frequency actuators configured to apply vibrations to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter material at a frequency between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz.

8. The one or more vibration sources are configured to sequentially apply vibrations to one or both of the filter housing or the reinforcing structure at a first frequency and then at a second frequency; (i) the first frequency is between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz and the second frequency is between 10 kHz and 200 kHz; or (ii) the first frequency is between 10 kHz and 200 kHz, and the second frequency is between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz; The self-cleaning filtration system of claim 1 .

9. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, wherein one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material comprises one or more metal materials.

10. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 1, wherein the one or more vibration sources are mechanically coupled to one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material.

11. A self-cleaning filtration system as described in claim 10, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to impart vibration to one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material, at least in part, by generating one or more waves that propagate through one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material.

12. A self-cleaning filtration method, comprising: filtering a fluid through the filter medium, the filter medium comprising a clean side of the filter medium and a dirty side of the filter medium, thereby accumulating particles from the fluid on the dirty side of the filter medium; applying vibrations with one or more vibration sources to one or more of: (i) a filter housing in physical contact with the filter media; (ii) a reinforcing structure in physical contact with the filter media; or (iii) the filter media, thereby vibrating the filter media and removing at least a portion of the particles from the dirty side of the filter media; A self-cleaning filtration method comprising:

13. A self-cleaning filtration method as described in claim 12, wherein one or more flow stream sources are configured to direct the flow stream from the clean side of the filter medium to the dirty side of the filter medium by one or more valves or one or more dampers.

14. A self-cleaning filtration method as described in claim 12, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibrations to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter material, thereby vibrating a second filter material while the second filter material performs a second filtration operation on a second fluid, and the second filter material is in physical contact with one or both of (i) the second filter housing or (ii) the second reinforcing structure.

15. (i) the filter media is oriented so that the clean side of the filter media is in a first position and the dirty side of the filter media is in a second position, the first position being at a higher gravitational potential than the second position; 13. The self-cleaning filtration method of claim 12, wherein (ii) the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibration to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter media at a downward acceleration that does not exceed the acceleration of gravity of the Earth.

16. The one or more vibration sources include one or more high frequency actuators configured to apply vibrations to one or both of the filter housing or the reinforcing structure at a frequency between 10 kHz and 200 kHz; (i) the one or more high frequency actuators include one or both of a piezoelectric actuator or an ultrasonic transducer; or (ii) the one or more high frequency actuators are mechanically coupled to one or more of the filter housing, the reinforcing structure, or the filter media; 13. The self-cleaning filtration method of claim 12, wherein either one or both of:

17. A self-cleaning filtration method as described in claim 12, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to apply vibration to one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material along a normal vector of the dirty side of the filter material with a vibration force having a zero or negative component, and the positive direction of the normal vector is defined from the dirty side of the filter material to the clean side of the filter material.

18. The one or more vibration sources are configured to sequentially apply vibrations to one or both of the filter housing or the reinforcing structure at a first frequency and then at a second frequency; (i) the first frequency is between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz and the second frequency is between 10 kHz and 200 kHz; or (ii) the first frequency is between 10 kHz and 200 kHz, and the second frequency is between 0.1 Hz and 1 kHz; 13. The self-cleaning filtration method of claim 12. (i) one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter media comprises one or more metallic materials; (ii) the one or more vibration sources are mechanically coupled to one or more of the reinforcement structure, the filter housing, or the filter media; 13. The self-cleaning filtration method of claim 12.

20. The self-cleaning filtration method described in claim 12, wherein the one or more vibration sources are configured to impart vibration to one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material, at least in part, by generating one or more waves that propagate through one or more of the reinforcing structure, the filter housing, or the filter material.

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