Filter Purge System Using Impact Wave and Vacuum Source

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter systems for internal combustion engines face challenges in effectively removing particulate matter, particularly ash, which does not burn and can reclog the filter, leading to reduced functionality and increased costs due to the need for complex impact air valves and inefficient regeneration methods.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing an impact wave generating device downstream of the filter and a vacuum source upstream to dislodge and collect particulate matter, including ash, without the need for costly valve systems, using a propellant arrangement to create an impact wave and a vacuum to collect the dislodged matter.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If an impact air valve is used to generate reverse moving wave for removing particulate matter, then the amount of particulate matter dislodged from the filter is improved, but the overall cost and size of the system increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the complex impact air valve component from the system and replaces it with a simpler diaphragm-based impact wave generating device. This extraction of the problematic component while retaining the essential function of generating impact waves resolves the contradiction between removal efficiency and system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a simplified version of the impact wave generating mechanism using a diaphragm chamber that copies the essential function of the impact air valve without requiring complex valve structures. This functional copy achieves the same particulate dislodging effect with much simpler components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Productivity

If burning method is used to eliminate dislodged particulate matter, then some particulates are removed, but ash and non-burnable particulate matter accumulate and reclog the filter

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical state and removal mechanism from thermal combustion to pneumatic extraction. By using a vacuum source to create negative pressure, the system physically removes all types of particulate matter including ash through the exhaust system, regardless of their combustibility. This parameter change from chemical to physical removal process resolves the issue of non-burnable particulate accumulation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where the vacuum source continuously monitors and removes dislodged particulates in real-time, preventing their accumulation and reclogging of the filter. This continuous removal feedback loop ensures that all particulate types are eliminated before they can cause filter blockage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Duration of action of stationary object

If extended use and repeated regeneration of filters is performed, then the filter serves longer, but matter builds up in the filters reducing functionality and engine performance

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements periodic impact wave generation followed by vacuum removal cycles to continuously clean the filter. This periodic action prevents matter buildup that would otherwise occur during extended use, allowing the filter to maintain its functionality throughout its extended service life without degradation from accumulated particulates

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

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 system effectively removes entrained matter, including ash, from the filter without reclogging, improving filter functionality and reducing costs by using a propellant to generate an impact wave and a vacuum to collect the dislodged particles, ensuring efficient ash removal and maintaining engine performance.

Implementation Method 1

an impact wave generating device located downstream of the filtering device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectImpact wave: Shock Wave

Implementation Method 2

a vacuum source located upstream of the filtering device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectVacuum: Vacuum

Data Source

PatentUS8157897B2Filter purge system utilizing impact wave generating device and vacuum source
Publication Date: 2012.04.17
  • US8157897B2 patent drawing
  • US8157897B2 patent drawing
  • US8157897B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for removing matter from a filtering device is disclosed. The system may have an impact wave generating device. The system may further have a vacuum source to draw matter away from the filtering device.