Interlockable Filter Module Arrangement With Guide Rail Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter systems for industrial fluid filtration are time-consuming to assemble due to the need for precise alignment and connection of multiple filter modules on connecting pipes.

Innovation Solution

A pluggable filter module arrangement where filter modules have inlet and outlet openings designed to plug into each other, forming a common fluid channel, and are mounted on a bearing support with guide rails for easy alignment and assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If filter modules are connected using traditional pipe connection methods, then fluid filtration can be achieved, but assembly time increases and alignment precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly timeVSAvoidalignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into modular filter modules that can be independently assembled and connected. Each module contains complete filtration functionality, allowing parallel assembly and reducing overall assembly time while maintaining precise alignment through standardized connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Connection pipes serve as intermediary elements with standardized connection interfaces (flanges, quick-connect couplings) that enable precise alignment between filter modules. These intermediaries include alignment features such as guide pins, positioning holes, and tapered connections that ensure accurate positioning during assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Quantity of substance

If multiple filter modules are assembled on connecting pipes, then filtration capacity increases, but assembly complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration capacityVSAvoidassembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Standardized connection pipes and connection interfaces are designed to be universal across all filter modules. The same connection method, flange design, and mounting procedure apply regardless of the number or type of modules, enabling scalable assembly from 2 to 20+ modules without increasing procedural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows flexible configuration by changing parameters such as the number of modules, arrangement pattern (series/parallel), and connection pipe routing. This enables adaptation to different filtration capacity requirements while maintaining the same basic assembly procedure and interface standards.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4240518B1Interlockable filter module arrangement
Publication Date: 2025.06.11 FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
  • EP4240518B1 patent drawingFigure 1a~2b
  • EP4240518B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~4c
  • EP4240518B1 patent drawingFigure 5a~6b

AI summary

The invention relates to an intermateable filter module arrangement for filtering fluids, comprising a plurality of filter modules (10), wherein a filter module (10) has a filtrate region, a fluid inlet channel (14) connected to the filtrate region, a fluid outlet channel (16) connected to the filtrate region, and a filter device by means of which fluid from the fluid inlet channel (14) is filtered into the filtrate region, wherein the fluid inlet channel (14) and the fluid outlet channel (16) each have an entry opening (20) and an exit opening (22) which are intermateable such that a common fluid channel (14, 16) is formed from a plurality of filter modules (10), and wherein the filter modules (10) have at least one running element (28), on which the filter module (10) is supportable, and a bearing support (40), in which the plurality of filter modules (10) are received and fastened, wherein the bearing support (40) has at least one first guide rail (42), in which the filter modules (10) are movably guided and supported by means of the running elements (28).