Backwashable Filter Assembly with Segmented Plunger Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backwashable filters require interruption of the filter operation for backwashing, leading to large designs and high backwash water consumption, which is inefficient and not hygienic.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of separately operable plungers in each filter chamber allows for simultaneous filtering and backwashing without interruption, using a circular arrangement of filter chambers around a central housing, with actuating devices to control valve positions for seamless operation, reducing the need for bypasses and minimizing backwash water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backwashing is performed in conventional filters, then the filter medium is cleaned, but the filter operation must be interrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is divided into multiple filter chambers (at least two) that can operate independently. Each chamber has its own plunger valve mechanism, allowing one chamber to perform backwashing while another continues filtration, enabling continuous operation without interrupting the overall filter productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables continuous filtration by implementing a multi-chamber system where backwashing in one chamber does not stop the filtration process in other chambers. The plunger valves allow seamless switching between chambers to maintain uninterrupted useful action
2Reliability
If conventional backwashing devices are used, then solids are removed from the filter medium, but large amounts of backwash water are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the filter into multiple chambers with individual plunger valve control, the backwashing process is localized to specific chambers rather than requiring system-wide backwashing. This reduces the total volume of water needed for backwashing while maintaining effective cleaning of the filter medium
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger valve mechanism enables precise control of water flow direction and pressure parameters during backwashing. By controlling the timing and sequence of plunger actuation, the system optimizes water usage efficiency and minimizes backwash water consumption while achieving thorough cleaning
3Reliability
If conventional backwashing operations are performed, then the filter is cleaned, but the device dimensions must be large
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger valves are integrated within the filter chambers themselves, with the plungers moving inside the chamber volume. This nested arrangement eliminates the need for separate external backwashing devices, reducing the overall device dimensions while maintaining full backwashing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the backwashing function with the filtration structure by incorporating plunger valves directly into the filter chambers. This integration combines multiple functions (filtration, backwashing, valve control) into a single compact unit, reducing device dimensions compared to conventional separate systems
4Productivity
If multiple filter chambers are used for simultaneous filtering and backwashing, then continuous operation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each filter chamber is designed as a universal unit that can perform both filtration and backwashing functions through its plunger valve mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite enabling simultaneous operations
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enables continuous operation with reduced dimensions, low backwash water consumption, and enhanced hygiene, as backwashing can occur frequently without affecting the filtration process, ensuring efficient and compact filtration systems.
Implementation Method 1
one opening and the other opening forming valves for the medium to be filtered or for the dirty water by means of the plunger by means of the inner wall of the filter chambers
Implementation Method 2
a sieve, an outlet for the filtered medium
Implementation Method 3
the solids deposited on the filter medium are thus backwashed and drained away through a separate drain
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a backwashable filter 1 and a method for filtering/backwashing liquid filter media with a housing 2, an inlet 3 for the medium to be filtered, a sieve 4, an outlet 5 for the filtered medium and a wastewater outlet 6, wherein the filter 1 has at least two filter chambers 7 arranged in the cylindrical housing 2, wherein a plunger 8 is arranged in each filter chamber 7, which has a projection 9 in the direction of the wastewater outlet 6, which can be actuated in the axial direction of the housing 2 by means of a roller 10 which is movable in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical housing 2.