Filtration Device Valve Switching for Backwashing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional backwashing methods for filtration devices require complex switching operations with multiple valves, leading to potential operational errors and increased system size due to the need for a tank to hold purified water for backwashing.
Innovation Solution
A filtration device with a water current selector and pivotally fitted valve that allows for simple switching between water purification and backwashing modes by altering communication paths between tap water inlet, purified water passage ports, and drain water outlet, enabling purified water to flow backward through filters for cleaning without the need for additional tanks or complex valve systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching valves are used to enable backwashing of filters, then backwashing function is achieved, but device complexity increases and operational reliability decreases due to complicated switching operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve mechanism. The water current selector integrates the switching valve, first backwashing valve, and second backwashing valve functions into one unified component that can redirect water flow between filtration and backwashing modes through a single operational interface, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining backwashing capability
Solution Approach 2:
The water current selector is designed as a multi-functional device that serves both as a normal filtration valve and as backwashing valves. By pivoting to different positions, the same valve structure enables tap water to flow through filters for purification or to flow backward through filters for backwashing, eliminating the need for separate dedicated backwashing valves
2Adaptability or versatility
If a tank is used to pool purified water for backwashing, then backwashing function is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the tank component from the backwashing system. Instead of pooling purified water in a dedicated tank, the system uses the existing water supply and valve routing to directly redirect tap water or purified water through the filters in reverse flow, removing the need for additional storage infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own purified water output or direct tap water supply to perform backwashing without requiring external water storage. The water current selector enables the system to self-regulate water flow directions, using available water sources to clean the filters without additional external components
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple switching valves are used for backwashing, then backwashing function is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to complicated switching procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The water current selector merges multiple valve operations into a single unified control mechanism. Users operate one valve by pivoting it to different positions to achieve both normal filtration and backwashing functions, eliminating the need to manually switch between multiple separate valves and simplifying the operational procedure
Data Source
AI summary
A filtration device with filters that can be backwashed with purified water switches between water purification, first backwashing, and second backwashing modes, depending on a pivot position of a valve. During the first backwashing mode, while a tap water inlet is in communication with a second tap water passage port, first and second purified water passage ports are blocked from communication with a purified water outlet, so purified water from a second filter flows backward through a first filter and is discharged from a drain water outlet. During the second backwashing mode, while the tap water inlet is in communication with a first tap water passage port, first and second purified water passage ports are blocked from communication with the purified water outlet, so purified water from the first filter flows backward through the second filter and is discharged from the drain water outlet.