Elliptical Filter Support Structure for Strength and Permeability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter elements face a challenge in achieving a balance between high mechanical strength and good fluid permeability, as dense packing of holes for low flow resistance leads to material bottlenecks and weak points in the support structure.

Innovation Solution

The filter element features elliptical fluid passage openings with a first axis in the x-direction and a second axis in the y-direction, oriented transversely to the support structure's longitudinal direction, along with a helically wound support structure, which enhances mechanical stability and fluid permeability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If holes are arranged in dense packing to achieve low flow resistance, then fluid permeability is improved, but mechanical strength deteriorates due to material bottlenecks forming weak points

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid permeabilityVSAvoidmechanical strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the geometric parameters of the fluid passage openings from circular to elliptical shape. This parameter change allows the openings to be arranged in a way that maintains material continuity between adjacent openings, eliminating weak points while preserving fluid permeability. The elliptical geometry with specific aspect ratios optimizes both flow characteristics and structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If round holes are used to balance structural strength and fluid permeability, then a compromise is achieved, but optimal performance cannot be regularly achieved

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidfluid permeability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces asymmetry by using elliptical openings instead of symmetric circular openings. The elliptical shape with its specific orientation (major axis at 45 degrees to the circumferential direction) creates an asymmetric pattern that optimizes both load distribution and fluid flow paths, allowing simultaneous achievement of high structural strength and good fluid permeability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Data Source

PatentEP2763775B1Filter element with a support structure
Publication Date: 2020.06.24 HYDAC FILTERTECHNIK GMBH
  • EP2763775B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~1b
  • EP2763775B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2b
  • EP2763775B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A support structure (16) for a filter element, comprising at least one surface part (10), in which one or more fluid passage openings (12a -12e) with predetermined opening cross-sections are formed, is characterized in that the opening cross-section of at least one fluid passage opening (12a -12e) is at least partially elliptical-shaped.