Movable Filter Sliding Body for Thermoplastic Filtration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filtering systems for plastic materials face inefficiencies due to manual and time-consuming filter replacement processes, which disrupt the filtration process and expose operators to high temperatures and gases.

Innovation Solution

A filtering apparatus with a movable sliding body and automatic filter replacement mechanism, allowing filters to be ejected and installed orthogonally or tilted relative to their sliding direction, enabling quick and safe replacement without manual intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If manual filter replacement is performed, then operators can replace filters, but operator exposure to high temperatures and gases increases and replacement time is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefilter replacement operationVSAvoidoperator exposure to heat and gases

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs filter replacement automatically without operator intervention. The movable body transports filters between filtering position and replacement position, and the ejection mechanism removes spent filters and installs new ones autonomously, eliminating operator exposure to harmful conditions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical operations are replaced by an automated mechanical system comprising a movable body with actuators and an ejection mechanism. The system uses mechanical means to transport, eject, and install filters automatically

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If manual filter replacement is performed, then filters can be replaced, but filtration process interruption occurs and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefilter replacement operationVSAvoidfiltration process continuity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system prepares replacement filters in advance and positions them on the movable body before they are needed. The movable body pre-transports filters to the replacement position, so when ejection occurs, new filters are immediately available for installation, minimizing process interruption

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The automated system enables continuous filtration operation by seamlessly replacing filters without stopping the process. The movable body and ejection mechanism ensure uninterrupted filter availability, maintaining continuous productive action

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Duration of action of stationary object

If filters are cleaned by reverse flow, then filter life is extended, but cleaning system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefilter service lifeVSAvoidcleaning system structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system periodically reverses the flow direction through the filter to perform cleaning cycles. This periodic reverse flow removes accumulated debris from the filter mesh, extending filter service life between replacements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning mechanism works by inverting the normal filtration flow direction. By reversing the flow, particles accumulated on the filter surface are dislodged and removed, cleaning the filter without requiring disassembly or complex cleaning equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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 apparatus significantly reduces filter replacement time, enhances operational efficiency, and minimizes operator exposure to hazards, allowing continuous filtration with simultaneous or separate ejection and installation of filters.

Implementation Method 1

the cleaned polymer previously stored within the reservoir, which is movable along with the support, is forced by the piston through the filter in a counterflow direction

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCounterflow cleaning:

Implementation Method 2

melted and fed under pressure through filters, generally formed as metal grids to intercept pollutants such as ashes, dusts, paper, metals, sugars, wood, glass and the like

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP2602087B1Apparatus and process for filtering plastic materials

Publication Date: 2015.03.18 FARE

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AI summary

An apparatus (2) for filtering thermoplastic materials in the fluid state and related process are described, comprising a base block (3), at least one sliding body (7) which is movable within the base block, and at least one filter (6) mounted on the sliding body (7) and movable therewith between at least one filtering position (F), in which at least one pipe (4) for feeding the material to be filtered to the filter and at least one outlet pipe (5) for discharging the filtered material from the filter are provided, and at least one filter replacement position (S) in which means (20) for ejecting the filter from the sliding body (7) are provided, in which the sliding body (7) comprises at least one housing (7b) for at least one filter (6) to allow the filter (6) to be accommodated within and passed through the sliding body (7).