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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wool-based grease filters in kitchen ventilation systems are prone to degradation from excessive heat and flames, requiring costly metal support frames and frequent replacements, and are difficult to operate and maintain.
Innovation Solution
A disposable grease filter pad with a reusable external support frame made of non-combustible materials, such as stainless steel, that maintains the filter in a flat configuration and allows for easy cleaning and replacement, along with a clip-on bracket for easy installation and maintenance, eliminating the need for welding or structural modifications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wool or fiber-based filters are used in kitchen ventilation systems, then grease particulates can be absorbed, but the filters degrade from excessive heat and flames requiring frequent replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable filter assembly that combines an expendable filter pad with a reusable support frame. The filter pad is designed to be replaced periodically when saturated or damaged, while the support frame remains in place. This resolves the contradiction by accepting the limited lifespan of the filter pad under heat exposure while maintaining system reliability through the durable, reusable frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter assembly uses a composite structure combining different materials with complementary properties: the filter pad (wool or synthetic fibers) provides grease absorption, while the support frame (metal or heat-resistant material) provides structural integrity and heat resistance. This composite approach allows each component to perform its optimal function, resolving the contradiction between filter effectiveness and heat resistance.
2Reliability
If metal support frames are added to protect wool filters from heat, then filter reliability improves, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support frame and filter pad into a single integrated assembly where the filter pad is positioned within and supported by the frame. This combination simplifies installation and maintenance, as the entire assembly can be installed as one unit and replaced together if needed. The merging resolves the contradiction by creating a unified structure that provides protection without adding unnecessary complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the filter pad, acts as a heat shield, facilitates installation and removal, and can be cleaned and reused. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by achieving reliable heat protection through a single component that performs several roles, rather than requiring multiple separate elements.
3Temperature
If existing wool filters with metal frames are used, then heat resistance improves, but ease of operation and maintenance deteriorates due to weight and installation complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is segmented into two distinct components: a reusable support frame that remains installed in the ventilation system, and a removable filter pad that can be easily taken out for cleaning or replacement. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by allowing the heavy, heat-resistant frame to stay in place providing protection, while the lighter filter pad can be easily handled for maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The support frame acts as an intermediary between the ventilation system and the filter pad, providing a stable mounting structure that simplifies installation and removal. The frame's design includes features such as mounting brackets or attachment mechanisms that make it easy to secure the filter pad in place while allowing for straightforward removal when maintenance is needed, thus resolving the contradiction between heat resistance and ease of operation.
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 provides a cost-effective, durable, and easy-to-maintain filter system that effectively removes grease particulates, reduces fire risk, and extends the lifespan of baffle filters by distributing heat evenly and preventing damage from flames.
Implementation Method 1
a filter pad and a reusable external support frame made of non-combustible materials such as stainless steel
Implementation Method 2
a reusable external support frame made of non-combustible materials such as stainless steel that maintains the filter in a flat configuration
Implementation Method 3
upper and lower baffle assemblies on one side, a removable perforated insert, a disposable grease filter pad, and a single baffle assembly on the other side, to define a tortuous path for exhaust air flowing there through
Data Source
Figure 1~4
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Figure 6
AI summary
A grease filter (16) for installation within an aperture of an exhaust hood overlying kitchen equipment where heat or flame may occur. The grease filter (16) comprises an external frame assembly, a baffle filter, and a first housing element. The external frame assembly defines a pathway for airflow therethrough and partially defines an upstream portion of the grease filter (16) and a downstream portion of the grease filter (16). The baffle filter is disposed within the downstream portion of the grease filter (16). The baffle filter is secured within the external frame assembly. The first housing element is positioned within the upstream portion of the grease filter (16). The first housing element is configured to provide support to a filter pad (102) to maintain the filter pad (102) in a generally flat configuration.