Flow Control Channels in Fluid Filtration Device

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fluid filtration devices face challenges in handling large concentrations of solids, leading to premature fouling and reduced efficiency, especially when continuous cleaning mechanisms are overwhelmed by high particle accumulation rates.

Innovation Solution

A fluid filtration device with a rotating cleaning assembly and flow-directing channels formed by baffles, which directs filtered fluid towards an outlet while using wipers to remove particles, maintaining a consistent flow rate and preventing fouling through turbulence creation and efficient particle collection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If continuous cleaning mechanisms are used to handle high particle accumulation rates, then filtration efficiency is maintained, but the cleaning mechanisms suffer from premature fouling and reduced reliability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration efficiencyVSAvoidcleaning mechanism reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The filter system performs its own cleaning operation while continuously processing fluid. The cleaning mechanism is integrated into the filter assembly, allowing it to clean the filter element without requiring system shutdown or external intervention, thus maintaining both high productivity and reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning mechanism operates continuously during filtration rather than periodically or intermittently. This continuous cleaning action prevents particle accumulation on the filter element surface, maintaining consistent filtration efficiency and preventing cleaning mechanism fouling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Productivity

If the filtration system processes large concentrations of solids, then productivity increases, but particle accumulation rate exceeds cleaning capacity causing fouling

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesolids processing capacityVSAvoidfilter fouling
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The filter assembly cleans itself during operation through an integrated cleaning mechanism that removes particles from the filter element surface, enabling the system to handle high solids concentrations without fouling

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The cleaning mechanism acts preventively by continuously removing particles before they can accumulate to fouling levels. This preliminary cleaning action allows the system to process large solids concentrations while maintaining filtration performance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 device effectively separates solids from fluids, maintaining continuous operation and reducing fouling by ensuring consistent flow and efficient particle removal, even at high solids concentrations, thereby extending the filtration system's operational lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

one or more bumps, divets, ridges or the like may be present in the channels. These features may serve to create turbulence in the fluid flow.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTurbulence: Turbulence

Implementation Method 2

a filter material having an interior surface and an exterior surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP3094396B1Flow control features for fluid filtration device and methods
Publication Date: 2022.02.23 SPIRAL WATER TECH
  • EP3094396B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3094396B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3094396B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A fluid filtration device is provided that can be used for separating solids from fluids. In some embodiments, the fluid filtration device comprises a hollow housing and a hollow filter assembly located within the housing. Fluid to be filtered is provided to the inside of a filter material in the filter assembly and passes outward toward the housing. In some embodiments one or more flow-directing features are located between the filter assembly and the housing, and may aid in the flow of fluid to a filtered outlet after passing through the filter. The flow-directing features may comprise, for example, channels that extend the length of the filter.