Edge-Reinforced Filter Membrane for Sterile Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter modules for sterile and virus filtration face issues with inadequate connections between the filter membrane and anchoring elements due to material differences, leading to potential leaks and compromised sterility.
Innovation Solution
A filter module with a porous edge structure on the membrane, which enhances the connection by creating a clamping effect when embedded in the anchoring element, ensuring a fluid-tight seal and improved sterility through heat and pressure sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the membrane and anchoring element are directly embedded without edge reinforcement, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the connection strength is insufficient leading to leaks
Solution Approach 1:
The edge reinforcement separates the sealing function from the filtration function by creating a distinct porous edge structure with different properties than the membrane body, allowing optimized performance for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The filter module uses composite construction by combining the membrane material with a porous edge reinforcement structure that has different porosity and material properties, creating a multi-functional composite structure that improves both connection strength and sealing performance
2Adaptability or versatility
If different materials are used for membrane and end caps, then each material can be optimized for its specific function, but the bond between materials is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The porous edge reinforcement acts as an intermediary structure between the membrane and anchoring element, providing a transition zone that facilitates bonding between dissimilar materials through its porous structure that allows mechanical interlocking
Solution Approach 2:
The edge reinforcement utilizes porous material structure to enhance bonding capability, where the pores allow the anchoring element material to penetrate and mechanically interlock with the edge structure, creating a strong bond despite material differences
3Stability of the object's composition
If only end caps are melted during embedding, then the membrane material is preserved, but the connection between membrane and anchoring element is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The porous edge reinforcement provides localized modification at the membrane edge with different porosity and material properties than the membrane body, allowing enhanced bonding in the embedding region while preserving the membrane's filtration properties elsewhere
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 edge-reinforced filter module achieves excellent sterility and prevents leaks, maintaining effectiveness over a longer period, making it suitable for sterile and virus filtration of various fluid media.
Implementation Method 1
due to the porosity as well as the structuring or surface roughness of the edge reinforcement, a clamping effect arises between the filter membrane and the at least one anchoring element, whereby the edge reinforcement effectively clamps itself into both the filter membrane and the at least one anchoring element
Implementation Method 2
Sealing the membrane with the end caps in this way is intended to ensure the sterility of the filter module
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a filter module having an edge-reinforced membrane, to a method for producing the filter module and to the use thereof.