Concentric Filter Sleeve Removal with Segmented Caps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing industrial fluid filters face issues with the 'sticking' of filter sleeves to perforated baskets due to fluid pressure, requiring excessive force to remove them, and lack efficient mechanisms for quick and easy replacement of filter segments.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly with concentrically arranged outer and inner filter sleeves and a perforated restrainer basket, featuring a sealing collar with handles and an extraction tool, allows for independent movement and sequential removal of sleeves, reducing the required force and facilitating easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple filter sleeves are attached to a single common cap, then the filtration capacity is increased, but the force required to remove the sleeves from the basket increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support structure into multiple separate components (first cap for outer sleeve, second cap for inner sleeve) instead of using a single common cap. This segmentation allows the filter sleeves to be removed independently, reducing the force required for removal while maintaining the multi-component filtration capability.
2Reliability
If filter sleeves are supported by a perforated basket under fluid pressure, then the filtering operation is effective, but the sleeves become lodged in the basket perforations causing them to stick
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces separate caps for each filter sleeve that can be independently manipulated. This allows the sleeves to be removed sequentially rather than simultaneously, making it easier to dislodge them from the basket perforations without requiring excessive force.
Solution Approach 2:
The caps serve as intermediary components between the filter sleeves and the operator. By providing handles on the caps, the operator can apply lifting force to the caps rather than directly to the stuck sleeves, facilitating easier removal from the basket.
3Device complexity
If inner and outer filter sleeves move simultaneously when the cap is lifted, then the structure is simple, but it requires a large lifting force to dislodge both sleeves from the basket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the support structure into separate caps for the inner and outer sleeves. This allows independent movement of each sleeve during removal, enabling the operator to lift one sleeve at a time rather than simultaneously lifting both, thereby reducing the required lifting force.
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 easier and less forceful removal of filter sleeves, reduces pressure losses, and allows for efficient filtration without the need for realignment of basket components, improving operational efficiency and maintenance accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
fluid filter adapted for use in removing particulate matter (e.g., dirt, oil, sludge, etc.) from a fluid
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A filter element (14, 214, 314) includes outer and inner sleeves (16, 18, 216, 218, 316, 318) made from a flexible, pervious material. The inner sleeve (18, 218, 318), which is arranged substantially concentric with respect to the outer sleeve (16, 216, 316), employs one or more handles (50, 52, 225, 227, 337) to facilitate the removal of the filter element (14, 214, 314) from an associated filter housing. (FIGS. 1, 10, and 13.)