Dockable Drive Unit for Filter Closure Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter systems for containments, such as isolators and RABS, face inefficiencies in handling and operation, particularly in exchanging and automating the switching and monitoring of closure elements, leading to contamination risks and time-consuming processes, especially when multiple filter systems are installed.
Innovation Solution
A filter system with dockable connections between the adjusting mechanism and a drive unit, featuring a motorized operation with a high transmission ratio and a control unit for programmable control and monitoring, allowing for efficient and contamination-proof operation of filter units, with the option for manual adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation of closure elements is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated drive unit that includes a motor, transmission mechanism, and adapter assembly. This substitution enables automated opening and closing of closure elements, significantly improving operation speed and reducing contamination risk while maintaining controlled system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive unit is designed with self-contained components including integrated motor, transmission, and adapter assembly that automatically perform the opening/closing function without requiring external manual intervention. The system serves itself by incorporating all necessary actuation mechanisms within the filter unit structure.
2Ease of operation
If dockable drive unit is added to filter unit, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is designed as a separate, dockable module that can be independently attached to and removed from the filter unit. This segmentation allows the drive mechanism to be handled, installed, and maintained separately, improving ease of operation while managing overall system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The dockable drive unit incorporates multiple functions within a single integrated assembly: the motor provides power, the transmission mechanism converts motion, and the adapter assembly interfaces with the closure element. This multi-functionality improves operational efficiency while avoiding the need for separate components for each function.
3Productivity
If high transmission ratio is used in motorized operation, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a motorized transmission system with high transmission ratio to replace manual high-force operations. The motor provides rotational power that is converted through the transmission mechanism to achieve the required linear motion for opening/closing closure elements, improving operational efficiency while managing complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission mechanism is merged with the adapter assembly and drive gear system in an integrated configuration. The transmission part with toothing arrangement directly engages with the drive gear, combining multiple functional elements into a unified structure that achieves high transmission ratio while minimizing overall complexity.
4Reliability
If automating closure element control is implemented, then reliability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual control of closure elements with an automated motorized system that provides consistent, repeatable opening and closing actions. This automation improves reliability by eliminating human error and ensuring proper sealing, while managing complexity through a straightforward motor-transmission-adapter configuration without requiring complex control electronics.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter system for a containment through which a gas flows, comprising at least one filter unit. First docking means on the filter unit removably connect the filter unit to a receiving port of the containment. The filter unit further has a closure element having an adjusting mechanism to block and open an entry into the filter unit. A drive unit can be connected to the adjusting mechanism. The connection between the adjusting mechanism and the drive unit is preferably dockable. The drive unit has a motor preferably in the form of an electric motor with a pinion or a gear. The transmission ratio of the motor to the transmission part is greater than 1:20, preferably greater than 1:30, for example 1:33. A control unit can switch and monitor the position of a plurality of closure elements according to a program. The adjusting mechanism can also be actuated manually.