Disposable filter unit in a system allowing for purification and recycling of water
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water purification and recycling systems face challenges in efficiently replacing and maintaining filters, particularly in ensuring effective filtration and minimizing air pockets and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A disposable filter unit with an outer body, top, bottom, inflow, and outflow, where the inflow and outflow are positioned adjacent to the bottom and top respectively, allowing for simultaneous fixation and release into a system. This design facilitates easy replacement and incorporates a mechanical filter fixating/releasing unit for secure attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the filter unit is designed with separate inflow and outflow connections, then the filter can be integrated into the water system, but the replacement process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple connection functions into a single integrated connection element. The inflow and outflow connections are merged into one unified interface that connects to a single docking station, allowing simultaneous connection of both water flows. This merging principle simplifies the replacement operation while maintaining system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single connection element serves multiple functions simultaneously - it handles both inflow and outflow connections, provides mechanical attachment, and ensures proper alignment. The docking station is designed with universal compatibility to work with the multi-functional connection element, enabling one connection point to fulfill multiple connection requirements.
2Ease of operation
If the filter unit is designed for easy and quick replacement, then user convenience is improved, but the risk of improper installation and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element and docking station are designed with complementary geometries that create a unique fit - the connection element can only be inserted into the docking station in the correct orientation. This equipotential design ensures that proper installation is achieved naturally through the physical constraints of the mating surfaces, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical connection system incorporates self-aligning features and self-locking mechanisms that automatically ensure correct installation. The design includes self-checking elements that provide tactile or visual confirmation when the filter unit is properly seated, allowing the system to self-verify installation correctness without requiring user expertise or additional tools.
3Device complexity
If the inflow and outflow are positioned at the same end of the filter unit, then the structure is simplified, but air pockets form and ventilation becomes necessary
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the inflow and outflow connections at opposite ends of the filter unit along its longitudinal axis, utilizing the full length of the housing to maximize water flow path. This dimensional arrangement ensures that water enters at one end and exits at the other, preventing air pocket formation while maintaining a simple linear structure without requiring additional ventilation components.
4Reliability
If the filter unit uses a complex fixation mechanism, then the filter remains secure in the system, but the replacement process becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fixation mechanism transitions from a static, permanent connection to a dynamic, reversible connection. The mechanical interface includes movable components such as spring-loaded latches or bayonet-style connectors that can be easily actuated to release the filter unit. This dynamic design maintains secure fixation during normal operation while enabling quick replacement when needed.
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 enables simple and effective replacement of the filter unit, allows for back-flushing to maintain filter cleanliness, minimizes air pocket risks, and ensures efficient water purification and recycling by maintaining filter hygiene and preventing contamination.
Implementation Method 1
a filter means (7) enclosed in the outer body
Implementation Method 2
draining water in the system from the top to the bottom by using gravity
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention describes a disposable filter unit (1 ) intended for a system (10) allowing for purification and recycling of water or separation of water, said disposable filter unit (1 ) comprising an outer body (2), a top (3), a bottom (4), an inflow (5), an outflow (6) and a filter means (7) enclosed in the outer body (2), wherein the inflow (5) is positioned adjacent to the bottom (4) and the outflow (6) is positioned adjacent to the top (3), and wherein the inflow (5) and (10) outflow (6) are arranged to be fixated simultaneously into the system (10) and released simultaneously from the system (10) enabling a simple replacing of the disposable filter unit (1 ) for a user, and wherein the system (10) comprises a mechanical filter fixating / releasing unit (8).