Conical Filter Apparatus for Biological Sample Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing closed filtration systems for biological samples, particularly fecal samples, face issues with clogging due to particulate matter and inadequate filter surface area, leading to pressure imbalances and slowed filtration processes.
Innovation Solution
A conically-shaped filter apparatus with a large surface area of openings and a hollow gas exchange stem with radially arranged vents, allowing for pressure equalization and unobstructed airflow, which prevents clogging and enhances filtration efficiency by increasing the filter surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a flat filter with small surface area is used to fit within centrifuge tube diameter restrictions, then the apparatus can be integrated with standard containers, but the filtration speed decreases and clogging occurs more frequently
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is transformed from a flat two-dimensional structure to a three-dimensional conical structure with radial openings. This dimensional change increases the effective filter surface area while maintaining compatibility with the cylindrical centrifuge tube geometry, allowing faster filtration without clogging
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flat filter with small surface area is used, then the apparatus can be integrated with standard centrifuge tubes, but clogging with particulate fecal matter occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The filter transitions from a flat 2D surface to a conical 3D structure with radial openings extending along the cone surface. This increases the effective filtering area and distributes the particulate load across a larger surface, reducing clogging while maintaining tube compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The filter surface is segmented into multiple radial openings distributed across the conical surface rather than a single flat filter membrane. This segmentation allows better distribution of fecal particulates and prevents localized clogging
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a closed filtration system is used, then contamination and odor are reduced, but pressure imbalance occurs due to gas flow restriction
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is designed with numerous radial openings distributed across its conical surface, creating a porous structure that allows both liquid filtration and gas passage. This maintains pressure balance while preserving the closed system's protection against contamination and odor
4Stress or pressure
If a central gas exchange tube is used in closed filtration, then gas flow is provided, but the tube becomes occluded by particulate matter
Solution Approach 1:
The single central gas exchange tube is replaced with multiple radial openings distributed across the conical filter surface. This segmentation prevents occlusion by distributing the particulate load across many smaller openings rather than one large central tube
Solution Approach 2:
Gas exchange transitions from a single central vertical tube to a distributed radial pattern across the conical surface. This dimensional redistribution eliminates the single point of occlusion while maintaining gas exchange functionality
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
The apparatus effectively traps particulate matter while allowing parasitic elements to pass through, ensuring rapid and uninterrupted filtration without the need for specialty equipment, reducing the risk of contamination and odor exposure.
Implementation Method 1
an apparatus and a method can be provided for the filtration of biological samples via gravitational filtration techniques
Implementation Method 2
A hollow gas exchange stem is joined to the distal end of the filter member... allowing for pressure equalization thus preventing the termination of the filtration process
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for filtering a biological sample is presented. The apparatus comprises a body member has an upper end and a lower end and defining a workspace therewithin. A first attachment portion is integrally joined to the lower end of the body member for interlockingly receiving a filtered sample container. A second attachment portion is integrally joined to the upper end of the body member for interlockingly receiving a sample transport container. A substantially conically-shaped filter member, located within the workspace, is integrally joined to the lower end of the body member and extends upwardly above the lower end of the body member toward the upper end of the body member. The filter member defines a plurality of openings in its upwardly extending portion.