Internal Tank Filtering Unit for Sludge Waste

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional filtering systems for tank trucks used in waste collection and treatment are costly, cumbersome, and limit the versatility of the tank due to their complex external configuration and high construction costs.

Innovation Solution

A compact filtering unit with two filtering modules and a circulation line, which can be inserted into the tank, reducing external components and allowing for easy maintenance and versatility in waste handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If traditional external filtering systems are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but device complexity and construction cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple filtering modules (first filtering module, second filtering module, third filtering module) into a single integrated filtering unit that is inserted inside the tank. This merging of previously separate external components into one unified internal system reduces overall device complexity while maintaining the multi-stage filtering efficiency of 5 microns.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The filtering unit is designed to be inserted inside the tank compartment, nesting the filtering system within the existing tank structure. This eliminates the need for separate external filtering systems and their associated external pipes and pumps, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving filtering functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Manufacturing precision

If traditional external filtering systems are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering efficiencyVSAvoidconstruction cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By merging all filtering modules into a single integrated unit that fits inside the tank, the patent reduces the number of separate components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and installed externally. This integration simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces construction costs while maintaining high filtering efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from a horizontal external filtering system arrangement to a vertical internal arrangement within the tank compartment. This dimensional change allows the filtering system to utilize the tank's internal volume efficiently, reducing the need for additional external space and associated construction costs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Manufacturing precision

If traditional external filtering systems are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but the tank's versatility decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering efficiencyVSAvoidtank versatility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated filtering unit designed according to the patent can be applied to various tank types and waste materials, including chemically aggressive products. The modular design with multiple filtering stages provides a universal solution that maintains high filtering efficiency while adapting to different waste handling requirements, thereby preserving tank versatility.

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

4Manufacturing precision

If traditional external filtering systems are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but the overall dimensions increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltering efficiencyVSAvoidoverall dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent nests the entire filtering system within the tank compartment, eliminating the need for external filtering equipment. This nesting approach maintains all filtering stages (first, second, and third modules) within the existing tank volume, thereby achieving high filtering efficiency without increasing the overall dimensions of the vehicle or tank.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

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 reduces assembly and maintenance costs, enhances the tank's versatility for different types of waste, including chemically aggressive products, and achieves effective filtering without increasing the tank's overall dimensions.

Implementation Method 1

a first filtering module (21) configured to separate and filter water from sludge waste

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

a circulation line (70) configured to transfer the water filtered by the first module (21) to the second module (22)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid transport:

Implementation Method 3

a second filtering module (22) configured to further filter the water conveyed to it by the circulation line (70)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP3523256B1Equipment for collecting and treating waste with a filtering unit and process therefor
Publication Date: 2025.05.28 JUROP
  • EP3523256B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3523256B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3523256B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The present invention relates to a filtering unit (1) for separating and filtering water contained in sludge waste. The filtering unit (1) is insertable within a tank (2) defining at least one collection compartment (200) of said sludge waste. The filtering unit (1) comprises a first filtering module (21) and a second filtering module (22) for filtering said water. The filtering unit (1) further comprises a circulation line (70) for transferring the water filtered by the first module (21) to the second module (22), and a collection line (80, 80A) to collect and convey the part of water also filtered by said second module (22). The filtering unit (1) further comprises a supporting frame (12) which supports the modules (21, 22). Such a frame (12) is either partially or completely insertable into the compartment (200) of the tank (2) through a manhole (114). Finally, the filtering unit (1) comprises connection means configured to form a connection between the frame (12) and the tank (2) so that said filtering modules (21, 22) are completely arranged within said compartment (200) upon such a connection.