Disposable Filter Modules for Surface Treatment Overspray Separation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current surface treatment systems face inefficiencies in overspray separation, particularly in high-energy consumption and complex disposal processes, and require optimized filter modules for varying types of overspray.

Innovation Solution

A set of disposable filter modules with different designs optimized for specific types of overspray, including separating, inertia, and combination filters, with standardized inlets and outlets for compatibility and efficient air flow management.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If a single type of filter module is used for all overspray types, then the device complexity is reduced, but the separation efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter module varietyVSAvoidseparation efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The filter system is segmented into multiple disposable filter modules, each optimized for specific overspray types (solvent-based, water-based, two-component paints). This segmentation allows each module to specialize in separating particular overspray characteristics while maintaining overall system simplicity through standardized housings and interchangeable filter units.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The filter module housing is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different types of filter units (separating filters, inertia filters, combination filters). This multi-functionality allows a single housing design to support various filtration approaches depending on the overspray type, reducing the need for multiple housing designs while maintaining high separation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Use of energy by moving object

If disposable filter modules are used instead of wet scrubbers or electrostatic separators, then energy consumption is reduced, but the handling and disposal effort increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenergy consumptionVSAvoidfilter module handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs disposable filter modules that are economically designed for single-use or limited-use cycles. These modules are replaced when they reach their capacity, eliminating the need for complex cleaning, maintenance, and energy-intensive operation of permanent separation systems like wet scrubbers or electrostatic separators.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter modules are designed to be self-contained units that require minimal external intervention. The standardized housing and filter unit design allows for easy self-replacement by operators, reducing the operational burden despite the disposable nature of the modules.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Reliability

If filter modules are optimized for specific overspray types, then the separation efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation efficiencyVSAvoidfilter module variety
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each filter module is designed with local quality optimization - the filter unit inside a standardized housing is specifically tailored for certain overspray types (e.g., separating filters for solvent-based paints, inertia filters for water-based paints). This allows high separation efficiency for specific applications while maintaining overall system simplicity through the universal housing design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 approach enhances the separation efficiency and reduces energy consumption by tailoring filter modules to specific overspray types, improving air quality and simplifying disposal processes.

Implementation Method 1

a filter unit (78) through which cabin air loaded with overspray can be directed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

overspray generated in a coating booth is captured by an airflow and directed to one or more disposable filter modules

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAirflow capture: Advection

Data Source

PatentEP2969243B1Method for operating a surface treatment installation, set of filter modules and surface treatment installation
Publication Date: 2023.04.26 EISENMANN GMBH
  • EP2969243B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2969243B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2969243B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

In a method for operating a surface treatment installation (12), overspray that is produced in a coating booth (10) is taken up by an air stream and carried to one or more one-way filter modules (40), in which overspray is separated, wherein, once a limit loading with overspray is reached, a one-way filter module is exchanged for an empty one-way filter module. Depending on the nature and characteristics of the overspray, the one or more one-way filter module(s) (40) is/are chosen from a set (62) of different one-way filter modules (64.X). The invention also provides a set of filter modules for use in such a surface treatment installation (12), wherein the set (62) comprises various filter modules (64.X), which are formed as exchangeable one-way structural units with a module housing (66) and a filter unit (78) and through which air from the booth that is laden with overspray can be passed. The module housings (66) of the various filter modules (64.X) have same-connection module inlets (70, 90) and same-connection module outlets (72, 88) and at least the filter units (78) of two different filter modules (64.X) are formed differently. The invention also provides a surface treatment installation with a separating device (40), which comprises such a set (62) of filter modules (64.X).