Modular Interface Module for Filter Integrity Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional filter integrity testing methods are susceptible to contamination, which can disturb measurement accuracy and lead to cross-contamination of testing instruments, as they are exposed to hazardous substances and biological components during the testing process.
Innovation Solution
A modular interface module is introduced, which includes a first and second flowpath with valves enclosed in an enclosure, allowing for the introduction and venting of pressurized gas while preventing liquid ingress, and is designed to be cleanable, sterilizable, and removable from the testing device for cleaning and sterilization, thereby protecting the testing equipment from contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional non-destructive testing methods are used, then filter integrity can be tested, but the testing equipment is exposed to contamination from hazardous substances, particulates, liquids, and biological components
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate chambers: a test chamber that contacts the filter device and venting gas, and an instrument chamber that houses the sensitive testing instruments. This segmentation prevents direct exposure of instruments to contaminants while maintaining testing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A removable interface module serves as an intermediary component between the test chamber and instrument chamber. This module can be detached, cleaned, and sterilized, acting as a barrier that protects the instruments from contamination while allowing testing to proceed.
2Productivity
If the testing equipment directly contacts the filter device and venting gas, then testing can be performed, but cross-contamination between different filter devices occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The interface module is designed as a separable component that can be removed after each test. This allows the controllable chamber to be isolated from contaminants while maintaining continuous testing capability through quick replacement or cleaning of the interface module.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface module can be discarded (removed and disposed of or heavily cleaned) after each test to prevent cross-contamination. This approach maintains productivity by allowing rapid replacement while eliminating contamination risks.
3Loss of time
If the testing equipment is exposed to venting gas containing residues of wetting fluid and product, then the test can be completed, but measurement accuracy is disturbed
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful venting gas and residues are extracted and confined to the test chamber and exhaust path, separated from the instrument chamber. This extraction prevents measurement accuracy degradation while maintaining rapid test completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The removable interface module acts as a mediator that blocks the path of contaminated venting gas from reaching the sensitive instruments. This intermediary protection maintains both measurement precision and test speed.
Data Source
AI summary
A testing apparatus employs an interface module removably attached to a filter testing device. The interface module includes a first flowpath communicating with an outlet of the testing device and a housing of the filter device, a first valve disposed in the first flowpath, a second flowpath communicating with the housing of the filter device and an exhaust, a second valve disposed in the second flowpath, and an enclosure enclosing the first flowpath, the first valve, the second flowpath, and the second valve. The interface module is cleanable and/or sterilizable, and replaceable. A filter integrity testing method uses an interface module to prevent contamination of the testing device and cross-contamination of different filter devices and avoid liquid ingress into the testing device.