Filtration Assembly Alignment Rods for Rapid Unit Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtration assemblies face challenges in efficiently installing and removing filtration units without disrupting the entire filtration process, particularly in tangential and direct flow filtration systems, as existing methods require sequential removal and installation through small areas, limiting flexibility and speed.
Innovation Solution
The use of a removably attachable alignment rod arrangement that can slide longitudinally or laterally between end pieces and a manifold, allowing for the alignment and communication of fluid passages between filtration units and manifolds, enabling the simultaneous removal or installation of multiple filtration units without disrupting the flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If filtration units are installed or removed through small access areas in existing filtration assemblies, then the assembly structure remains compact, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration assembly is divided into modular components including multiple filtration units that can be independently installed and removed. The housing is segmented with removable panels or access points that allow individual filtration units to be accessed without disassembling the entire assembly, enabling parallel installation/removal operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a lateral or vertical access dimension for installing and removing filtration units, rather than requiring sequential access through a single small opening. This may involve slide-in mechanisms, lift-out configurations, or angled access paths that allow multiple units to be serviced simultaneously from different directions.
2Productivity
If sequential removal and installation of filtration units is performed through limited access areas, then the assembly structure remains simple, but the flexibility and speed of unit replacement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly incorporates movable or adjustable components such as sliding filtration units, removable panels, or expandable access openings that dynamically adapt during the installation/removal process. These dynamic features enable faster unit replacement without requiring permanent complex structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
This principle does not apply to this patent as it relates to visual identification rather than structural complexity or installation speed.
3Productivity
If the entire filtration process is disrupted during filtration unit installation or removal, then simpler installation methods can be used, but production efficiency and output are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is pre-configured with access points, alignment features, and sealing mechanisms that are prepared in advance to allow filtration units to be installed or removed without disrupting the overall filtration process. Bypass channels or temporary sealing arrangements may be pre-positioned to maintain flow continuity during unit replacement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables the filtration process to continue uninterrupted during unit replacement through features such as hot-swappable filtration units, parallel processing paths, or quick-seal mechanisms that maintain system integrity and fluid flow continuity throughout the installation/removal operation.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to filtration assemblies and methods of installing filtration units in filtration assemblies. Filtration assemblies may include first and second end pieces, at least one filtration unit between the first and second end pieces, and at least one alignment rod arrangement. The alignment rod arrangement may extend between the end pieces and align the filtration units and the end pieces.