Integrated Two-Stage Filter Device for Complex Fluids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filter devices for complex fluid samples face challenges such as high contamination risk, inappropriate capacity, and complex handling during two-stage filtration processes, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A filter device with integrated first and second filter funnels and an intermediate connector allowing for selective vacuum or sub-ambient pressure application, reducing contamination risk and facilitating efficient two-stage filtration without intermediate transport, along with transparent funnels for visual monitoring and disposable components for cost-effective operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two-stage filtration is performed in different containers or processes, then filtration can be performed, but handling becomes complex and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pre-filtration and filtration stages into a single integrated device with a common housing, eliminating the need to transfer samples between separate containers. This merging approach maintains filtration effectiveness while reducing handling steps and contamination risk.
2Productivity
If filter capacity is made small for pre-filter, then device size is reduced, but pores plug quickly and entire sample volume cannot be processed
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration system is segmented into two distinct stages with separate filter media: a pre-filter for initial particle removal and a main filter for final filtration. This segmentation allows each filter to be optimized for its specific function while working together to process the entire sample volume efficiently.
3Productivity
If filter capacity is made large, then entire sample volume can be processed, but equipment cost and cleaning requirements become excessive
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the filtration into two stages with appropriately sized filters, the system can process large sample volumes without requiring a single oversized filter. The pre-filter handles bulk particle removal, allowing the main filter to be smaller and less expensive while still achieving the required throughput.
4Strength
If stainless steel combined pre-filtration/filtration devices are used, then durability is improved, but handling difficulties and contamination risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates pre-filtration and filtration funnels into a single unified device with a common housing, eliminating the need to handle and connect separate stainless steel components. This integration maintains durability while significantly improving handling ease and reducing contamination risk during operation.
5Reliability
If filter funnels are made transparent for visual monitoring, then filtration progress can be watched, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transparency feature is applied locally to the funnel portions that require visual monitoring, rather than making the entire device transparent. This selective application allows operators to observe filtration progress at critical points while keeping other parts of the device opaque for structural integrity and cost-effectiveness.
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 minimizes contamination risks, enhances handling safety, and optimizes filtration efficiency by integrating the filtration stages and allowing controlled pressure application, while enabling visual monitoring and reducing equipment costs through disposable components.
Implementation Method 1
an intermediate connector is provided downstream of the first filter medium and upstream of the internal space of the second filter funnel and this intermediate connector has a port and/or a vent for communicating the internal space of the second filter funnel with an external gas source/atmosphere via a valve arrangement
Implementation Method 2
the provision of the intermediate connector with such a port and/or vent and valve arrangement provides the possibility of selectively applying a vacuum or sub-ambient pressure to the internal space of the second filter funnel to promote filtration through the first filter medium
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a
Figure 2b
AI summary
A filter device (1) for filtering complex fluid samples, comprising a first filter funnel (2) having an inlet (2a) and an outlet (2b) and an internal space (2c) dimensioned to receive a volume of sample fluid to be filtered, and a second filter funnel (3) having an inlet (3a) and an outlet (3b) and an internal space (3c) dimensioned to receive the volume of sample fluid. The first and second filter funnels (2,3) are sequentially arranged with a first filter medium (4) located therebetween such that the volume of sample fluid placed in the internal space (2c) of the first filter funnel (2) can pass through the first filter medium (4) and be collected in the internal space (3c) of the second filter funnel (3). An intermediate connector (12) is provided downstream of the first filter medium (4) and upstream of the internal space (3c) of the second filter funnel (3) and has a port (13) and/or a vent for communicating the internal space (3c) of the second filter funnel (3) with an external gas source/atmosphere and/or a vacuum source via a valve arrangement (14).