Filter unit, liquid tank and method for producing a filter unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filter units designed for vertical docking in coffee machines are inefficient when used in liquid tanks with horizontal docking, leading to reduced filter performance and handling issues due to air suction and incomplete flooding of filter chambers.
Innovation Solution
A filter unit with a labyrinthine or meandering water path that can be inserted both horizontally and vertically into a liquid tank, featuring a compact design with a channel inlet below the water level to prevent air suction and ensure proper liquid flow, allowing for easy installation and removal without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a filter unit designed for vertical docking is used in a liquid tank with horizontal docking, then the filter unit can be installed in the liquid tank, but the filter performance is reduced due to air suction and incomplete flooding of filter chambers
Solution Approach 1:
The filter unit is designed with a universal docking mechanism that allows it to be installed in both vertical and horizontal positions within the liquid tank. The bayonet fitting and mechanical interface are configured to accommodate different orientations, enabling the same filter unit to serve multiple docking configurations without compromising its filtration function.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from orientation-specific filter designs to a three-dimensionally adaptable filter unit. By reconfiguring the docking mechanism and internal channel layout, the filter unit can operate effectively regardless of whether it is installed vertically or horizontally, adding orientational flexibility to the design.
2Reliability
If a filter unit with multiple filter chambers is used for vertical docking, then filtration capacity is increased, but when used in horizontal docking some chambers are not sufficiently flooded reducing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The internal channel is designed with a three-dimensional labyrinthine path that adapts to different gravitational orientations. Whether the filter unit is installed vertically or horizontally, the channel configuration ensures that liquid flows through all filtration stages by utilizing gravity-assisted flow paths that remain effective in any orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter unit incorporates dynamic flow path design where the liquid flow adapts to the installation orientation. The channel geometry and positioning of filter elements are optimized to ensure proper flooding and flow distribution regardless of whether the unit is mounted vertically or horizontally, maintaining consistent filtration performance.
3Reliability
If the inlet of the filter unit is positioned above the water level for vertical installation, then proper filtration is achieved, but in horizontal installation the pump draws in air instead of liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet positioning strategy transitions from orientation-dependent to orientation-independent design. The inlet is strategically positioned and angled within the filter unit housing to ensure that in both vertical and horizontal installations, the inlet remains below the liquid level, preventing air suction and ensuring continuous liquid flow to the pump.
4Volume of moving object
If a compact filter unit design is used to occupy less volume in the liquid tank, then space efficiency is improved, but installation and removal may require tools or additional handles
Solution Approach 1:
The bayonet fitting mechanism serves dual purposes: it provides secure mechanical retention of the compact filter unit within the limited tank space and simultaneously functions as an easy-to-operate installation and removal interface. The universal docking design allows users to install and remove the filter unit by hand without requiring additional tools or handles, maintaining ease of operation despite the compact size.
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 filter unit achieves optimal performance and handling in both horizontal and vertical positions, ensuring efficient filtration and stable mounting, with improved liquid contact and flow guidance, even at low water levels, thus enhancing the overall filtration effect.
Implementation Method 1
a channel embedded in the filter element in a labyrinthine or meandering manner for guiding a liquid through the filter unit
Implementation Method 2
the filter unit comprises a filter element and a channel embedded in the filter element
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a filter unit (110) for insertion into a recess of a liquid tank (105), wherein the filter unit (110) has a filter element (500) and a channel (400) embedded at least partially in the filter element (500) in a labyrinthine or meandering manner for guiding a liquid through the filter unit (110).