Filter Cartridge Interconnect Using Correlated Magnet Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interconnection schemes between filter cartridges and manifolds lack efficient mechanisms for attachment, detachment, and actuation, often resulting in high friction and undesirable attraction forces, making removal difficult and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A filtration system utilizing correlated magnets that apply torque and repulsion forces for attachment and detachment, where a rotatable manifold magnet interacts with a filter cartridge magnet to actuate a valve and facilitate easy removal through a 'torque/align' model, using alignment tracks and mechanical stops to manage rotation and separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional magnetic attachment schemes are used, then attachment force is achieved, but friction and attraction forces become high making removal difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies correlated magnets that dynamically change their magnetic interaction based on relative orientation. When aligned, magnets produce strong attraction for secure attachment; when misaligned during removal, the magnetic force dynamically reduces or becomes repulsive, enabling easy detachment without excessive friction or attraction resistance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the magnetic field parameters (strength and direction) based on the relative position and orientation of the filter cartridge and manifold. Correlated magnets are configured to produce different magnetic force magnitudes and directions depending on alignment, allowing the system to transition between strong attachment and easy removal states
2Reliability
If strong magnetic attraction is used for attachment, then secure connection is achieved, but valve actuation and cartridge removal become inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic attachment system is segmented into multiple correlated magnets distributed across the filter cartridge and manifold surfaces. This segmentation allows different regions to perform different functions: some magnets provide attachment force while others facilitate valve actuation through rotational torque, and others enable easy removal through controlled repulsion, thereby improving overall operational efficiency without compromising connection security
Solution Approach 2:
The correlated magnet system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it provides secure attachment through attraction, actuates the valve through rotational torque when components are rotated, and facilitates easy removal through repulsion when misaligned. This multi-functionality improves productivity by eliminating the need for separate mechanisms for each operation
3Ease of operation
If correlated magnets are misaligned, then repulsion force assists removal, but alignment precision during attachment becomes critical
Solution Approach 1:
The correlated magnets are configured with asymmetric polarity patterns that create a strong alignment torque when components are brought together. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that even if initial alignment is not perfect, the magnetic fields automatically guide the components into proper alignment through torque, reducing the criticality of manufacturing precision while still enabling effective removal through repulsion when needed
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
Enables precise alignment and attachment, efficient actuation of valves, and easy removal of filter cartridges by leveraging magnetic attraction and repulsion forces, reducing friction and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the manifold magnet and the filter magnet are interconnected via magnetic communication with one another upon insertion of the filter cartridge into the shroud
Implementation Method 2
a repulsion force is introduced upon filter cartridge rotation to assist in the filter cartridge removal from the manifold
Implementation Method 3
a valve is actuated through rotation of the filter cartridge into the manifold
Data Source
AI summary
A filtration system and method of using the same. The method comprises the steps of guiding, by alignment rail and mating boss, a filter cartridge into a manifold housing; aligning a filter magnet with a corresponding manifold magnet; rotating, by attractive magnetic forces, the manifold magnet upon rotation of the filter cartridge into an installed position; and actuating, by attractive magnetic forces, a manifold valve.