Filter Cloth Connector Ring Assembly for Filter Presses

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for attaching filter cloths to filter plates in filter presses are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to leakage, especially for larger filters, and result in significant productivity losses due to the need for duplex cloths and complex assembly processes.

Innovation Solution

A flanged cloth connector ring system that securely attaches filter cloths to filter plates using a collar portion and flanged tab portion, with a locking ring for retention, allowing for efficient and independent installation of filter cloths on both sides of the plate, reducing the need for duplex cloths and simplifying the assembly process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional sewing or adhesive methods are used to attach filter cloth to tubular hub, then the filter cloth can be secured to the hub, but the process becomes labor intensive and time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure attachment of filter cloth to hubVSAvoidtime for attachment process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical attachment methods (sewing, adhesive bonding) with an induction heating process. The tubular hub is heated by induction to melt a bonding agent, creating a secure chemical bond between the hub and filter cloth without requiring mechanical fasteners or time-consuming manual operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical state of the bonding agent from solid to liquid through induction heating, enabling rapid attachment. The heating process transforms the bonding agent's properties to allow for quick melting and bonding, significantly reducing the time required compared to conventional methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If duplex filter cloth is used to ensure complete coverage, then filtering reliability is improved, but the cost and complexity of assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering reliabilityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the filter cloth assembly into separate components: a central tubular hub and separate filter cloth layers. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and simplifies the assembly process, as the hub can be attached to the filter cloth without requiring complex duplex configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tubular hub serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, creates the filtering chamber geometry, and serves as the attachment point for the filter cloth. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate duplex cloth assemblies and reduces overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of repair

If filter plates are removed to replace filter cloths, then the filter press can be re-clothed, but productivity is significantly lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter cloth replacement capabilityVSAvoidoperational productivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates the attachment mechanism directly into the filter plate structure during manufacturing. The tubular hub is pre-integrated with the filter plate, allowing filter cloth replacement without removing the entire filter plate assembly. This preliminary integration maintains operational productivity while enabling easy repair.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

4Strength

If welding is used to join filter cloth to hub, then a strong bond is achieved, but the process requires complex clamping equipment and is time consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebond strengthVSAvoidclamping equipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical clamping and welding system with an induction heating process. The induction heater directly heats the bonding agent to melt and bond the filter cloth to the hub, eliminating the need for complex clamping equipment while achieving strong bonds through controlled thermal processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 enables faster, safer, and more cost-effective installation of filter cloths, reducing downtime and increasing productivity by allowing individual cloth replacement without affecting the entire filter press operation.

Implementation Method 1

heating by induction the metal powder to bond and fixedly retain the filtering media

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentEP1948343B1Filter cloth assembly and connector
Publication Date: 2011.10.19 MICRONICS INC
  • EP1948343B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1948343B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP1948343B1 patent drawingFigure 4~7

AI summary

Apparatuses and methods for making and using a filter cloth assembly are described. A filter cloth assembly can have a liquid permeable filtering medium attached to a connector ring. The liquid permeable filtering media separates at least one solid from at least one liquid in a slurry. The filtering media has a feed hole formed therein that allows passage of a slurry through the filter cloth. The connector ring including a flange having an upper flange section and a lower flange section. The lower flange section receives an edge of the feed hole to connect the filtering media to the connector ring such that the face of the filtering media is substantially flush with the upper flange section.