Integrated Electrode Filter Assembly for Sterile Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter assemblies in the medical field lack a compact, integrated design that effectively filters particulates while allowing for the passage of electrical current and fluid flow, which is critical for sterile medical procedures.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly with a filter body, membrane support, and integrated components that allow for the passage of electrical current and fluid flow, featuring a compact design with a filter membrane support and components that pass through the inlet, the filter membrane support, and the outlet, and an electrode or conductive component that carries electrical current or fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter assembly uses a membrane to filter out suspended particulates from fluid or gas, then filtration effectiveness is improved, but the assembly becomes more complex and less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filter membrane support and the electrical component into a single integrated structure. The support body houses both the filter membrane attachment structure and the electrical component (electrode or conductor) that passes through the membrane, eliminating the need for separate components and reducing overall assembly complexity while maintaining filtration effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The support body serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the filter membrane, houses the electrical component, and facilitates both fluid/gas flow and electrical current transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed in the assembly.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the filter membrane support allows passage of electrical currents, then versatility for medical procedures is improved, but the structural integrity and filtration reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support body is segmented into distinct functional zones: a first portion that provides structural support and attaches the filter membrane, and a second portion that houses the electrical component. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall structural integrity and filtration reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter membrane acts as an intermediary between the fluid/gas flow path and the electrical component. It allows the electrical component to pass through the support structure while maintaining the filtration barrier, ensuring that the membrane prevents fluid passage through the support without first passing through the membrane itself.
3Volume of moving object
If the filter assembly uses a compact integrated design, then space efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical component is nested within the support body structure. The support body houses the electrical component (electrode or conductor) within its internal cavity, allowing the electrical component to be contained within the filtration structure without increasing overall assembly volume, achieving compact integration.
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 assembly provides a compact, efficient filtration system that ensures sterile conditions by filtering particulates while enabling electrical current and fluid flow, enhancing reliability and convenience in medical applications.
Implementation Method 1
the filter membrane being ultrasonically welded or adhered to prevent fluid passage through the support without first passing through the membrane
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed that include providing a filter assembly having a filter body with an inlet and an outlet, a filter membrane support disposed within the filter body between the inlet and outlet, a filter membrane coupled to the filter membrane support, and at least one component that passes through the inlet, the filter membrane support, and the outlet to carry an electrical current, a fluid, or combinations thereof through the filter.