Filter Cleaning Spiral Trajectory for Flat Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated and semi-automated filtration systems have limited scanning methods, primarily relying on helix trajectories, which lack adjustability and are not suitable for cleaning flat or complex surfaces, and do not combine multiple motions effectively.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of spiral and spiral-like scanning trajectories generated by combinations of circular and/or linear motions, allowing for complete coverage of planar or semi-planar filter surfaces with an effective cleaning radius, enabling dynamic trajectory adjustments and simpler actuation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If helix trajectories are used for cleaning, then cylindrical surfaces can be cleaned, but the scanning method lacks adjustability and cannot clean flat or complex surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic scanning trajectories that can adapt to different surface geometries (flat, cylindrical, or complex shapes) by combining multiple motions (linear, rotational, and orbital). The cleaning head can dynamically adjust its path based on the filter element geometry, transitioning between different motion patterns to maintain optimal cleaning contact across diverse surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning mechanism is designed with multi-functionality to handle various surface types using a single system. By integrating combinations of linear actuators, rotational joints, and orbital motion capabilities, the same cleaning apparatus can effectively clean flat plates, cylindrical surfaces, or complex geometries without requiring separate dedicated mechanisms for each surface type.
2Area of stationary object
If helix trajectories are used, then cleaning coverage can be achieved, but the method does not combine multiple motions effectively for complex surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple motion types (linear translation, rotational movement, and orbital motion) into a unified scanning trajectory system. These motions are combined synergistically to generate complex spiral-like paths that maintain continuous cleaning contact across the entire filter surface, achieving complete coverage while simplifying the control logic through coordinated motion integration.
3Reliability
If reverse flow through nozzle is used, then cylindrical screens can be cleaned, but the method is not suitable for planar or semi-planar surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The cleaning system employs dynamic trajectory generation that adapts the cleaning head's path and orientation based on the filter element geometry. For planar surfaces, the system generates scanning patterns appropriate for flat geometries, while for cylindrical surfaces, it generates helical or spiral patterns, maintaining reliable cleaning effectiveness across different surface types through motion adaptation.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for filter cleaning including a filter element surface (12) to be cleaned, and a cleaning head (10), characterized by a controller (16) operative to move the cleaning head (10) with respect to the filter element surface (12) in a spiral scanning trajectory in such a way that a relative path of the cleaning head (10) with respect to the filter element surface (12) results in a trajectory that fully, or partially covers the filter element surface (12) and is produced by moving the filter element surface (12) in any combination of the following motions: a) one or more circular or semi-circular motions, b) one or more linear motions; while moving the cleaning head (10) in any combination of the following motions: c) one or more circular or semi-circular motions, d) one or more linear motions.