Hollow-Fiber Membrane Header Cap Sealing Against Axial Deformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hollow fiber membrane module units lack effective methods for connecting header pipe caps and reducing axial forces that cause deformation and damage, while also allowing for assembly errors due to dimension discrepancies.
Innovation Solution
The hollow fiber membrane module unit employs a side seal connection covering the outer periphery of contact surfaces between adjacent header pipe caps, combined with a support bar to fix the caps at both ends, preventing displacement and deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If header pipe caps are connected directly without additional connection structures, then the device complexity is reduced, but the connection reliability deteriorates due to axial forces causing displacement and deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is segmented into multiple functional components: a connection structure with first and second connection portions, a support structure with third and fourth connection portions, and sealing structures. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function (connection, support, sealing) independently, improving overall connection reliability while keeping individual components relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure integrates multiple functions into a unified assembly that connects adjacent hollow fiber membrane modules. The support structure merges support and sealing functions, while the sealing structure combines axial and radial sealing capabilities. This merging reduces the number of separate components needed, improving reliability without excessively increasing complexity
2Reliability
If rigid connection methods are used to prevent displacement, then the connection reliability improves, but the ease of manufacture deteriorates due to strict dimension tolerance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure incorporates flexible connection portions that can change their physical parameters (such as bending angle or elongation) to accommodate dimension variations in adjacent modules. This flexibility allows the system to maintain reliable connections even when manufacturing tolerances cause slight misalignments, improving ease of manufacture while preserving connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure includes cushioning elements positioned beforehand to absorb and compensate for dimensional variations and misalignments. This pre-positioned cushioning prevents the transmission of stress that would otherwise require strict dimension tolerances, making the system easier to manufacture while maintaining reliable connections
3Strength
If axial forces are applied to connect header pipe caps, then the connection strength improves, but the harmful factors increase due to deformation and damage of the header pipe cap
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure acts as an intermediary between the connection structure and the hollow fiber membrane modules. It transmits and distributes connection forces through its third and fourth connection portions, preventing concentrated axial forces from directly deforming or damaging the header pipe caps while maintaining strong connections
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure provides counterbalancing forces to offset harmful axial forces that would otherwise deform or damage the header pipe caps. By positioning support structures at multiple locations, the system creates counteracting force distributions that neutralize detrimental stress concentrations while maintaining necessary connection strength
4Reliability
If multiple connection structures are added to prevent deformation, then the connection reliability improves, but the device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Each connection structure is designed with multi-functionality, integrating connection, support, and sealing capabilities into single assemblies. The support structure simultaneously provides structural support, positioning, and sealing functions. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled, improving ease of operation while maintaining high connection reliability through the integrated design
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a hollow fiber membrane module unit including a plurality of hollow fiber membrane elements to which header pipe caps are attached at both end portions, the hollow fiber membrane elements being arranged in parallel to form a row, in which the adjacent header pipe caps attached to the hollow fiber membrane elements on a permeate side are connected by a side seal connection covering an outer periphery of a contact surface, and the header pipe caps at at least both ends of the row are fixed by a support bar.