Secondary Clarifier Filter Element In-Situ Cleaning Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary clarification units in wastewater purification devices have limited maintenance efficiency due to filter elements that require frequent replacement or cleaning in external facilities, leading to high maintenance costs and operational disruptions.
Innovation Solution
A secondary clarification unit with a cleaning unit that allows for in-situ cleaning of the filter element, using mechanisms such as deformation, fluid flow variation, and volume reduction to loosen and remove trapped dirt, enabling continuous operation without filter replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filter elements are used to retain particles in secondary clarifiers, then purification effectiveness is improved, but maintenance frequency and costs increase due to limited capacity and accumulation of trapped particles
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is equipped with a cleaning unit that enables it to clean itself automatically during operation. The cleaning unit applies mechanical deformation, fluid motion, or volume reduction to the filter element, loosening and removing accumulated particles without requiring external intervention or system shutdown, thus making the filter self-maintaining
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning unit performs preliminary cleaning actions on the filter element before the particles completely block the pores. By periodically applying mechanical deformation or fluid motion, the cleaning unit prevents capacity exhaustion and maintains filtration effectiveness throughout operation
2Reliability
If filter elements are regularly replaced or cleaned in external facilities, then purification capacity is maintained, but operational disruptions and downtime increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning unit operates during the normal filtration process without requiring shutdown of the wastewater treatment system. The filter element continues to purify water while simultaneously being cleaned, ensuring continuous operation and eliminating downtime associated with external cleaning or replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element performs its own cleaning function through the integrated cleaning unit, eliminating the need to remove it from the system for maintenance. This self-service capability ensures uninterrupted purification capacity while maintaining the filter element
3Ease of manufacture
If filter elements are removed for external cleaning, then thorough cleaning is achieved, but time and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is cleaned in situ by the integrated cleaning unit without requiring removal from the secondary clarifier. The cleaning unit applies mechanical deformation, fluid motion, or volume reduction directly to the filter element, achieving thorough cleaning of trapped particles while eliminating the time-consuming process of removal, transport, and reinstallation
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning unit performs cleaning actions while the filter element is still in place and operational. By applying mechanical or fluid-based cleaning methods during normal operation, the system achieves thorough cleaning without the time loss associated with external facility cleaning
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 solution reduces maintenance efforts and costs by allowing for on-site cleaning of filter elements, maintaining their absorption capacity and minimizing downtime in wastewater treatment processes.
Implementation Method 1
the cleaning unit is a kneading unit designed to deform the filter element for cleaning purposes. In particular, it can be designed to deform the filter element periodically. Such deformation allows dirt trapped in the filter element to be loosened and released into the surrounding water.
Implementation Method 2
the cleaning unit is a fluid motion unit designed to move the fluid contained in the container through the filter element in addition to its flow from inlet to outlet for cleaning purposes. This allows the corresponding variation in the fluid flow to be easily detected or measured. The additional fluid flow can also dislodge dirt adhering to the filter element. The movement of the fluid can, in particular, induce the mechanical dislodgement of dirt from the filter element and/or friction between components, especially bodies, of the filter element to dislodge dirt.
Implementation Method 3
the cleaning unit is a volume reduction unit designed to reduce the volume available for cleaning the filter element within the container. The reduction in volume, in particular, results in increased friction between components of the filter element, such as bodies. This also allows dirt or other particles that are trapped in the filter element to be loosened.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a secondary clarification unit designed to clean a contained filter element. The invention further relates to an associated method and an associated use.