Filter Capsule Manifold Assembly for Quick Change-Outs

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing manifold assemblies for filter change-outs are not efficient for quick installation and disconnection, especially in confined spaces, and require individual fitting connections for filter capsules.

Innovation Solution

A manifold assembly with an upper adjustable frame, a movable hollow fluid flow channel, and a linkage handle that allows vertical movement between engagement and disengagement positions, along with a lower frame arrangement and filter housing support, enabling easy and secure connection of filter capsules without rotating them.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If individual fitting connections are used for filter capsules, then secure connection is achieved, but installation time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple fitting connections into a single integrated filter capsule assembly. The filter capsule includes a first fitting with a first connection and a second fitting with a second connection, allowing both connections to be made simultaneously when the capsule is inserted into the manifold housing, rather than requiring separate connection operations for each fitting.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fitting connections are pre-assembled on the filter capsule before it is installed in the manifold. The first fitting and second fitting are already attached to the filter capsule housing, so that when the capsule is inserted, the connections are already in position and ready for immediate engagement with the manifold ports.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If individual fitting connections are required, then secure fluid sealing is achieved, but operational efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid sealingVSAvoidoperational efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple fluid sealing connections are merged into a single filter capsule unit. The first fitting and second fitting both provide fluid sealing functions, and by combining them on one capsule, the system achieves reliable fluid sealing while allowing rapid replacement of the entire capsule rather than requiring separate connection operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a sealed fluid environment within the manifold housing where the filter capsule operates. The first fitting and second fitting both establish fluid-tight seals when engaged with the manifold ports, creating an inert sealed environment that prevents fluid leakage while enabling efficient operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

3Productivity

If traditional manifold assemblies are used, then filter change-out is possible, but ease of operation in confined spaces is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter change-out capabilityVSAvoidoperation in confined spaces
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The manifold system is segmented into a removable filter capsule and a stationary manifold housing. The filter capsule can be independently removed and replaced without disturbing the manifold housing or other connections, making it easy to perform filter change-outs even in confined spaces where access is limited.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The filter capsule is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to be easily inserted and removed from the manifold housing. The capsule can be moved vertically into position and locked in place, or quickly removed when needed, providing operational flexibility in confined spaces where traditional rigid connections would be difficult to manipulate.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS11338227B2Manifold assembly and method of use
Publication Date: 2022.05.24 PALL CORP
  • US11338227B2 patent drawing
  • US11338227B2 patent drawing
  • US11338227B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A manifold assembly and a method of engaging a filter capsule in the manifold assembly are provided.