Magnetic Filter Interconnect for Cartridge Latching and Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter interconnects face challenges with installation, removal, and replacement of filter cartridges, including effective latching and unlatching mechanisms, fluid leakage prevention, and authentication of authorized cartridges, without increasing manufacturing complexity or cost.
Innovation Solution
The use of correlated magnetism in filter interconnects for actuating switches or valves, authenticating OEM cartridges, and preventing counterfeiting through magnetic repulsion forces between aligned magnets on the filter cartridge and manifold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If magnetic repulsion force is used to actuate valve and blocking mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuation systems (manual valve operation, mechanical blocking mechanisms) with a magnetic field-based system. Correlated magnets generate magnetic repulsion forces that automatically actuate the valve and blocking mechanism when the filter cartridge is properly installed, eliminating the need for separate manual control mechanisms and reducing overall mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic actuation system is self-activating based on the installation position of the filter cartridge. When the cartridge is correctly installed, the correlated magnets automatically generate the repulsion force needed to open the valve and retract the blocking mechanism, without requiring external control inputs or additional actuation steps.
2Reliability
If correlated magnets are used for authentication, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses correlated magnets with specific polarity patterns and spatial arrangements that create unique magnetic field signatures. By varying the parameters of the magnetic fields (strength, distribution, polarity configuration), the system can reliably authenticate authorized cartridges while providing a tolerance range that accommodates normal manufacturing variations.
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
Enables secure, leak-proof installation and removal of filter cartridges, ensures only authorized cartridges function, and prevents counterfeiting by utilizing engineered magnetic fields for non-electronic actuation and authentication.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic repulsion force is generated when a complementary or paired second correlated magnetic structure is positioned within close proximity to the magnetic structure
Data Source
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AI summary
A filtration system interconnection structure includes a filter manifold and a filter cartridge in magnetic communication produced by two complementary correlated magnets capable of generating a magnetic force when in close proximity to one another. The filter magnet polarity transitions are aligned with the manifold magnet polarity transitions such that a repulsion force is generated between the magnets when the filter cartridge is inserted within the manifold sump. The magnetic repulsion force may be used to move a blocking mechanism or actuate a latch structure in the manifold to secure the filter cartridge within the manifold sump upon insertion, or to provide non-contacting actuation of a downstream valve so as to permit or prevent the flow of fluid. Utilizing correlated magnetism in a filter interconnect further provides enhanced authentication and/or anti-counterfeiting means to ensure that only authorized or OEM filter cartridges can be installed.