Curb Inlet Filter with Semi-Rigid Frame for Debris Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing curb inlet filters are ineffective in preventing sediment and debris from entering storm drainage systems, often becoming traffic hazards and requiring difficult maintenance, which can lead to street flooding when they become clogged.
Innovation Solution
A semi-rigid frame curb inlet filter is designed to fit snugly into the throat of a storm drain curb inlet, featuring a convex 'C' shape and an outward-facing 'L' shape leg for secure placement, with filter media such as geotextiles or open cell foam rubber on the lower half to capture debris, allowing easy removal and disposal without obstructing storm water flow during heavy events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filter devices are placed in front of the curb inlet, then sediment and debris are captured, but the device itself becomes a traffic hazard and only marginally filters storm water
Solution Approach 1:
The filter device is extracted from its conventional placement in front of the curb inlet and relocated inside the inlet throat. This extraction removes the device from the traffic zone, eliminating the traffic hazard while maintaining filtration effectiveness through the inlet structure itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter device is nested within the curb inlet throat structure. The semi-rigid frame is sized and shaped to fit into the throat, with the filter media contained within the frame structure, creating a nested configuration that utilizes the existing inlet geometry for both structural support and filtration function.
2Reliability
If filter devices are placed in front of the curb inlet, then sediment and debris are collected, but maintenance is difficult to perform without allowing collected sediment and debris to enter the curb inlet
Solution Approach 1:
The filter device is extracted from the conventional front placement and positioned inside the inlet throat, where it can be accessed and removed from the rear or side without disturbing the inlet opening. This extraction enables maintenance personnel to retrieve the device and dispose of collected sediment without creating a pathway for debris to enter the curb inlet.
Solution Approach 2:
The semi-rigid frame provides structural flexibility that allows the filter device to be dynamically removed and reinstalled. The frame can be extracted from the throat and repositioned for maintenance, then reinserted to resume filtration function, enabling easy periodic maintenance without permanent installation constraints.
3Reliability
If inlet devices become ineffective or clog the inlet, then the primary function of the curb inlet is inhibited, but storm water that is intended to enter the curb inlet can cause street flooding
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet system is segmented into two functional zones: the filter device occupying the lower portion of the throat for sediment capture, and the upper portion remaining open for storm water passage. This segmentation ensures that even when the filter becomes full, the upper opening maintains water flow capability, preventing flooding while allowing periodic maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter media covers only a portion of the throat cross-section rather than completely blocking it. This partial action allows the filter to capture sediment effectively while leaving sufficient open area for storm water to pass through, ensuring that maintenance is performed before complete clogging occurs but preventing flooding even if maintenance is delayed.
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 solution effectively filters debris and sediment from storm water runoff, preventing pollution of downstream waterways while minimizing maintenance challenges and avoiding street flooding, as the filter can be easily removed and reused after sediment disposal.
Implementation Method 1
As this semi-rigid frame is forced into the curb inlet opening, it is forced into compression, thereby creating and maintaining a tight fit in the inlet throat
Implementation Method 2
The lower half of the frame may be covered with one of a variety of filter media, such as woven and non-woven geotextiles and open cell foam rubber
Data Source
AI summary
A curb inlet filter is force fit into the throat of a curb inlet to filter debris and sediment from storm water entering an inlet. The device has a filter media affixed to the lower portion of a semi-rigid “C” shaped frame with upper retention flange. The shape and upper flange of the device combine to create a secure compression fit into the receiving inlet. The design includes an overflow feature above the extents of the filter media for heavy storm events. The “C” shape of the filter and placement within the throat of the curb inlet encourages sediment and debris to be captured within the device away from pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The device can easily be removed from the curb inlet while retaining the collected sediment and debris. The captured contaminants can be disposed of by emptying the contents in a designated area.