Pleated Filter Cleaning Device With Separating Projections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for cleaning pleated filter elements in cartridge filters, such as those used in swimming pools or spas, are inefficient and messy, often only cleaning the outer surface due to high centrifugal forces and inadequate water penetration, requiring manual labor and time.
Innovation Solution
A device with pleat separating projections and flat spray nozzles that direct fluid between pleats, utilizing a barrel-type valve to control fluid flow, allowing for effective cleaning of the interior pleat surfaces without splashing, enabling deeper penetration and efficient cleaning of multiple pleats simultaneously.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a jet of water is directed at an angle to cause the filter to spin, then centrifugal action assists in dislodging debris, but the filter spins so fast that centrifugal force forces out the water before it penetrates deeply into the filter element
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is segmented into multiple pleats that are separated by projections during cleaning. This segmentation allows water to be directed between individual pleats rather than having water forced outward by centrifugal force, enabling deep penetration between the pleats while maintaining cleaning effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of relying on centrifugal force to throw water outward against the spinning filter, the invention inverts the approach by using pleat separating projections to physically guide and direct water inward between the pleats. This reverses the ineffective centrifugal outward flow into an effective inward penetrating flow
2Manufacturing precision
If manual cleaning using a garden hose is used, then operator care can be applied to clean between the pleats, but the process is time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service cleaning where the filter element cleans itself without requiring manual manipulation. The pleat separating projections automatically direct water between the pleats, eliminating the need for operator intervention while achieving thorough cleaning results
Solution Approach 2:
The invention combines the functions of pleat separation and water delivery into a single integrated device. The pleat separating projections and water delivery system work together to achieve both thorough cleaning and time efficiency that neither manual cleaning nor simple spin cleaners can provide alone
3Productivity
If conventional spin cleaning is used, then centrifugal action dislodges debris, but the operator often gets splattered with water and debris making it messy
Solution Approach 1:
The pleat separating projections act as intermediaries between the water source and the filter pleats. These projections control and channel the water flow between the pleats, preventing uncontrolled spray and debris ejection that would splatter the operator, while still enabling effective debris removal
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 device provides a more efficient and controlled method for cleaning pleated filter elements, ensuring deeper penetration of cleaning fluid and reducing labor intensity, effectively maintaining filter performance and extending its lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
at least one fluid outlet for directing fluid between pleats separated thereby
Data Source
AI summary
A device (11) for cleaning a pleated filter element, the device having; a body, a fluid inlet (13), a work face (14) having at least one pleat separating projection (19) and at least one fluid outlet (22) for directing fluid between pleats separated thereby.