Magnetic Inline Filter for Coolant Chip Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic inline filters for coolant systems in machine tools face issues with clogging, require frequent replacement, and have limited filtration ability due to weak magnetic fields and complex structures.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic inline filter design featuring a double pipe configuration with inner and outer circumferential surface magnets disposed at different polarities, allowing for an intense magnetic field that bridges and attracts chips, eliminating the need for special filter members and enabling precise filtration without clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If disc-like permanent magnets are disposed only in the cylindrical space in the center, then the structure is simple, but the magnetic field in radiation direction is weak and filtration ability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a single-center magnet arrangement to a multi-dimensional configuration with magnets disposed on both inner and outer circumferential surfaces of the double pipe structure. This spatial expansion in multiple dimensions intensifies the magnetic field in the radiation direction without significantly increasing structural complexity, thereby improving filtration ability while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Reliability
If a filtration type filter made of paper or cloth is used, then filtration can be performed, but clogging easily occurs and frequent replacement is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical filtration system (paper or cloth filters that physically block particles) with a magnetic field-based separation system. The magnetic field attracts and holds magnetic particles (chips) on the pipe surfaces, eliminating the need for physical filter media that clog and require frequent replacement, thereby maintaining operational continuity.
3Reliability
If multiple circulation paths and magnet housing sections are formed narrow and slender, then chip separation can be achieved, but the structure becomes complicated and it is difficult to dispose a number of permanent magnets to intensify magnetic field
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the filtration function and magnetic field generation function into a single integrated double pipe structure. The inner and outer pipes with their respective magnets create multiple circulation paths without requiring separate narrow and slender housing sections, thus achieving chip separation while maintaining structural simplicity and allowing intensive magnet disposal.
4Productivity
If magnets are moved to position completely off opposed position to demagnetize filter members, then chip discharge is achieved, but the structure requires complex moving mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic magnet arrangement where magnets can be moved between an opposed position (for attraction and filtration) and a retracted position (for chip discharge). This dynamic capability enables chip discharge functionality while using a relatively simple moving mechanism compared to complex multi-section housing systems, balancing productivity and structural simplicity.
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 achieves high filtration efficiency with a simple structure, reducing operational costs by eliminating the need for frequent replacements and maintaining a strong magnetic field for effective chip removal from coolant systems.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of disc-like permanent magnets are stacked and disposed in a cylindrical space in the center of the sealed container. The filter members are magnetized by the permanent magnets. A coolant is caused to pass through gaps of the magnetized filter members and the filter members are caused to attract chips included in the coolant
Implementation Method 2
the filter members are caused to attract chips included in the coolant to separate the chips from the coolant
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic inline filter is provided. A piston rod of a fluid cylinder is retracted to the top to locate an inner circumferential surface side magnet and an outer circumferential surface side magnet in filtration positions opposed to a space. In this state, a solenoid of a changeover valve is actuated to shut off a discharge port. A coolant is introduced into the space from an introduction port in the vicinity of the lower end of an outer pipe. Since a magnetic field in a radiation direction is intense, chips in the coolant are attracted to wall surfaces on both sides of the space and the coolant is filtrated. When the supply of the coolant is continued, the chips attracted to the wall surfaces are accumulated and bridged. As a result, since the coolant passes through gaps of the bridged chips, it is possible to perform precise filtration.