Continuous Fluid Stabilization Filter Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stabilization methods in the beverage industry, such as those using regenerable stabilizers like PVPP, face challenges in achieving continuous operation and full-flow treatment due to equipment size constraints, product blending issues, and decreased stabilizing agent effectiveness over time, especially in membrane filtration systems.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing at least three or four filter units, alternately operated in groups, where the stabilizing agent is metered into the product flow and regenerated, with each unit having a filter insert, agitator, and gas circulation capabilities to ensure continuous stabilization and regeneration, allowing for uniform treatment and efficient use of stabilizing agents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If regenerable stabilizing agents (e.g., PVPP) are used in large quantities to treat the entire product flow, then full-flow stabilization is achieved, but the system requires large equipment size and complex regeneration facilities
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the stabilizing agent into multiple smaller filter units (first, second, and third filter units) that can be operated independently and in sequence. This segmentation allows the stabilizing agent to be distributed and regenerated in smaller batches, reducing the overall system size while maintaining full-flow treatment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous operation by having multiple filter units that can be switched between filtration and regeneration modes. While one unit is being regenerated, another continues to treat the product flow, ensuring uninterrupted stabilization without requiring the entire system to be shut down for maintenance.
2Productivity
If filter units are operated continuously without regeneration, then productivity is maintained, but the stabilizing agent effectiveness decreases over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous productivity by implementing a multi-unit configuration where filter units are switched between filtration and regeneration modes. This ensures that stabilization continues uninterrupted while the stabilizing agent is periodically regenerated, preventing effectiveness degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system recovers and regenerates the stabilizing agent through a dedicated regeneration unit that processes the spent stabilizing agent from filter units. This recovery process restores the stabilizing effect, allowing the same agent to be reused multiple times and maintaining long-term reliability without continuous consumption of fresh agent.
3Reliability
If lost stabilizing agents are used for stabilization, then the stabilizing effect is achieved, but additional equipment is required for removal before clarification
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using lost stabilizing agents that require removal, the system implements a closed-loop regeneration process. The stabilizing agent is continuously recovered and regenerated in a dedicated regeneration unit, eliminating the need for additional removal equipment before clarification and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing agent system becomes self-sustaining through automatic regeneration. The regeneration unit automatically processes and reactivates the stabilizing agent without requiring external intervention or additional removal steps, making the system self-service and eliminating complex equipment requirements.
4Quantity of substance
If stabilizing agents are added in large amounts to ensure uniform stabilization, then full-flow treatment is achieved, but product blending occurs during batch operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the stabilizing agent distribution across multiple filter units that process the product flow in a controlled sequence. This segmentation allows precise dosing control and prevents over-stabilization that would lead to blending, maintaining product uniformity while achieving full-flow treatment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements controlled dosing with implicit feedback through the sequential operation of multiple filter units. Each unit processes a specific portion of the flow with controlled agent addition, and the system monitors and adjusts operation to prevent over-stabilization and product blending, ensuring consistent composition.
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
Enables continuous stabilization of 100% of the product flow with precise dosing of stabilizing agents, maintaining effectiveness and preventing product blending, while optimizing equipment usage and filtration characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
The filter insert (9) is arranged in the housing (8) in such a way that liquid can be routed from the outside through a pipe into the interior of the filter insert (9) and this liquid only flows through the openings of the filter (9)
Implementation Method 2
each filter unit is provided with an agitator
Implementation Method 3
each filter unit is provided with a device for circulating gas, consisting of a pump, a connection for the outlet of the gas and a connection for the inlet of the gas
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
Device for continuous treatment of liquids comprises filter units connected to a dosing unit. The filter units (26) each have a housing (8) and a filter insert (9) delimiting an intermediate chamber, a removal unit leading from the filter insert and the housing, an inlet (21) passing through the housing and into the insert and an outlet (23) leading from the intermediate chamber. An independent claim is also included for a method for continuous treatment of liquids. Preferred Features: The housing is formed as a pipe or boiler. The filter insert has a gap or mesh width of 10-250 mu m. Each filter unit is provided in a stirring device.