Inline Filter Cap With Vortex Cross-Flow to Reduce Membrane Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
In-line filters experience clogging at the filter interface, particularly when dealing with retentate containing particulate matter such as cellular debris, and the need to change filters frequently is disadvantageous for single-use sterile products.
Innovation Solution
The filter caps incorporate a vortex feature, such as a helical structure, with optional recirculating channels and flow restriction elements to induce vortex or cross-flow, manufactured using additive manufacturing techniques like selective laser sintering or stereolithography, enhancing fluid flow across the membrane surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional in-line filters are used for filtration, then filtration function is provided, but clogging occurs at the filter interface when dealing with retentate containing particulate matter
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cap incorporates dynamic flow path modifications including vortex generators and recirculation channels that actively change the flow pattern from static radial flow to dynamic cross-flow and vortex flow, preventing particulate buildup on the membrane surface and extending filter lifespan while maintaining filtration performance
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from traditional radial flow (two-dimensional) to three-dimensional cross-flow and vortex flow patterns by adding flow path modification elements that create tangential and axial flow components, preventing particulate accumulation on the membrane surface and reducing clogging
2Reliability
If filters are changed frequently to prevent clogging, then filtration performance is maintained, but process continuity is disrupted for single-use sterile products
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cap design proactively prevents clogging by incorporating vortex generators and recirculation channels that maintain flow dynamics before particulate buildup occurs, eliminating the need for frequent filter changes and process interruptions in single-use sterile product manufacturing
3Productivity
If flow rate through the membrane is increased to maintain productivity, then filtration output is maintained, but pressure drop increases and clogging accelerates
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning from radial flow to cross-flow and vortex flow patterns, the invention distributes flow across the membrane surface in three dimensions, maintaining high filtration output while reducing localized pressure concentration and preventing clogging acceleration
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 design reduces clogging and enhances fluid flow by promoting recirculation and cross-flow, minimizing pressure drop and maintaining efficient filtration performance.
Implementation Method 1
The vortex feature is configured to provide vortex flow within the filter cap, wherein the vortex feature may be a helical structure
Implementation Method 2
The flow conduit may include a dual cone structure for imparting a cross-flow within the filter cap. Cross-flow increases the flow across the surface of the membrane relative to flow through the membrane
Implementation Method 3
The filter cap may include a recirculating structure, wherein the recirculating structure is a channel located radially outward from the helical structure
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A
AI summary
Filter caps 200, 400, 500, 600, 700 are provided that include internal geometry that modulate flow characteristics above the surface of a membrane filter held within the filter cap 200, 400, 500, 600, 700. The internal geometry in some cases provide for recirculation within the filter cap 200, 400, 500, 600, 700 that provides a cross flow element across the filter membrane that reduces clogging of the filter.