Movable Filter Concentration for Adjustable Cell-Safe Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concentration methods, such as those using hollow fiber-type separation membranes, apply strong forces to target objects like cells, requiring pressurizing mechanisms and lacking adjustable concentration ratios.
Innovation Solution
A concentration device with a container, filter, and position control mechanism that moves the filter within the container to concentrate liquids, reducing direct force application on target objects and allowing adjustable concentration ratios without pressurizing mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If hollow fiber-type separation membrane is used for concentration, then concentration function is achieved, but strong force is applied to target objects and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressurizing system with a gravity-based filtration system. The container is tilted at a specific angle (10-45 degrees) to allow liquid to flow naturally through the filter under gravity, eliminating the need for pumps or pressure application that would burden the target objects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic tilting of the container to control the filtration process. By adjusting the tilt angle, the flow rate and filtration efficiency are optimized, allowing concentration without applying excessive force to the target objects while maintaining productivity.
2Productivity
If hollow fiber-type separation membrane is used for concentration, then concentration function is achieved, but pressurizing mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates pressurizing mechanisms by substituting them with a gravity-driven system. The container is tilted to allow liquid to flow naturally through the filter, removing the need for pumps, pressure regulators, and associated control systems, thereby simplifying the device while maintaining concentration functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic tilting mechanism provides a simple yet effective way to control flow rate and filtration efficiency without complex pressurizing systems. The tilt angle can be adjusted to optimize the balance between flow rate and concentration efficiency, replacing complex mechanical pressurizing systems with a simple geometric adjustment.
3Productivity
If conventional concentration methods are used, then concentration is achieved, but concentration ratio is not adjustable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic tilting of the container to make the concentration ratio adjustable. By changing the tilt angle, the flow rate through the filter is controlled, which directly affects the concentration ratio. This provides a simple, continuous adjustment mechanism without requiring complex valves or flow controllers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of container tilt angle to control the concentration process. This single parameter change allows for continuous adjustment of the concentration ratio, providing versatility and adaptability while maintaining a simple device structure.
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 device minimizes burden on target objects, enables miniaturization, and allows for adjustable concentration ratios while maintaining object activity, using a filter with controlled movement and gas layer formation to prevent leakage.
Implementation Method 1
a filter in the container
Data Source
AI summary
A concentration device for concentrating a liquid containing a target object, the concentration device including: a container configured to store the liquid containing the target object; a filter in the container; and a position control portion configured to change a position of the filter in the container.