Filter assembly for use in a fluid container of a domestic appliance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filters for preventing calcification in domestic appliances, such as coffee makers, are costly, have limited lifespans, and contribute to environmental pollution due to their disposable plastic composition, while also being inconvenient for users to replace and often difficult to find.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly comprising a filter element with a semi-permeable skin and a filter housing that encloses a fluid retrieval pipe, allowing filtered fluid to pass while preventing particles from being extracted, with the filter element being disposable and the housing being durable, reducing material usage and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If disposable plastic filters are used to prevent calcification, then calcification prevention is achieved, but environmental pollution increases and filter lifespan is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is divided into two distinct segments: a reusable filter housing (made of durable material like plastic or metal) and a disposable filter element (containing the filtering medium). This segmentation allows the housing to be reused multiple times, reducing waste, while only the consumable filter element needs replacement. The housing includes a mounting structure that secures the filter element and directs fluid flow through it.
Solution Approach 2:
The design enables selective discarding of only the filter element after it becomes saturated or damaged, while the filter housing is recovered and reused. This is achieved by making the filter element removable from the housing, allowing users to dispose of the contaminated filter material while retaining the clean housing structure for continued use.
2Reliability
If disposable filters are used, then filtering function is provided, but filter replacement frequency increases and user convenience decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is pre-installed within the filter housing during manufacturing or initial setup. This preliminary action means that when replacement is needed, users only need to remove and replace the filter element itself rather than handling the entire filter assembly, making the replacement process quicker and easier.
Solution Approach 2:
By segmenting the filter assembly into a permanent housing and a replaceable element, the design simplifies the replacement operation. Users can access and replace only the small filter element without needing to disassemble or handle the larger housing structure, improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If specific disposable filters are used for each appliance, then proper filtration is ensured, but product availability decreases and user search time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter housing is designed with a standardized mounting structure that can accommodate different types of filter elements and can be adapted to various fluid container configurations. This universal design allows the same housing design to serve multiple appliance models or container types, increasing versatility and making filter elements more widely available.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure of the filter housing can be adjusted or modified in terms of dimensions, connection methods, or sealing mechanisms to fit different appliance types. This parameter adjustment capability allows a single filter housing design to be adapted across multiple applications while maintaining effective filtration.
4Reliability
If filters are integrated into fluid containers, then upstream filtration is achieved, but filter accessibility for replacement becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into a removable filter element and a stationary housing. The housing remains integrated with the fluid container to maintain upstream filtration, while the filter element can be independently accessed and replaced. This segmentation resolves the conflict between maintaining integrated filtration and enabling easy access for maintenance.
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 provides a cost-effective, long-lasting filter system that is environmentally friendly, ensuring filtered fluid is always dispensed from the appliance, reducing the risk of calcification and appliance failure, and simplifying maintenance by integrating the filter with the fluid retrieval system.
Implementation Method 1
a semi-permeable skin for at least partially enclosing the filter medium, which semi-permeable skin is adapted to let fluid pass while preventing particles of the filter medium from being extracted
Implementation Method 2
The filter element is provided with a filter medium and a semi-permeable skin for at least partially enclosing the filter medium
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A filter assembly (10) which is suitable for use in a fluid container (1) of a domestic appliance comprises a filter element (30) and a filter housing (40) for delimiting a portion (8) of a fluid container (1) in which a fluid retrieval pipe (4) is present and in which the filter element (30) is to be arranged, the filter housing (40) being adapted to let fluid into the delimited portion (8) of the fluid container (1) and to direct a fluid flow from an inlet position (41) to an inlet (5) of the fluid retrieval pipe (4) through the filter element (30), the filter element (30) being configured for at least partially enclosing the fluid retrieval pipe (4), and the filter element (30) having a filter medium and a semi-permeable skin for at least partially enclosing the filter medium.