Multi-Port Endcap for Ceramic Membrane Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceramic membrane filtration systems have a large footprint, making them inefficient for installations where space is limited, and they often require complex port configurations that complicate fluid flow and filtration processes.
Innovation Solution
A ceramic membrane filtration assembly with a multi-port end cap design that includes a housing with a bypass gap between the inner diameter and the inner end cap device, allowing for a simplified fluid path from the membrane channels to separate ports for dirty and clean water, reducing the system's footprint and enhancing filtration efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If traditional membrane filtration systems are used, then filtration function is provided, but the system occupies large footprint space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the feed inlet port and permeate outlet port into a single end cap structure, merging multiple functions into one component. This integration reduces the overall footprint while maintaining complete filtration functionality, as the end cap simultaneously handles both fluid entry and filtered fluid exit
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-port end cap device serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural closure for the housing, provides feed inlet access, provides permeate outlet access, and maintains pressure containment. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve comprehensive filtration capability within a minimized footprint
2Ease of operation
If complex port configurations are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple port functions into a single end cap structure, combining feed inlet and permeate outlet ports in one location. This consolidation simplifies the overall port configuration while maintaining effective fluid flow control through the membrane filtration process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the port configuration complexity from the housing structure and concentrates it into the end cap device. This extraction allows the main housing to remain simple while the end cap handles all port-related functions, effectively managing fluid flow without increasing overall system complexity
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 multi-port end cap design minimizes the system's footprint while ensuring efficient fluid flow and separation of contaminants, facilitating easier installation and operation by providing a clear path for dirty water in and clean water out, thus improving filtration efficiency and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
a membrane assembly disposed within the housing and extending from a first membrane assembly end to a second membrane assembly end, the membrane assembly comprising a ceramic membrane extending from a first membrane end to a second membrane end and having channels therein
Data Source
AI summary
A ceramic membrane filtration assembly includes a housing and a membrane assembly. The membrane assembly includes at least one membrane with channels therein. A first inner end cap device is disposed within the housing and is coupled with the membrane assembly. The housing has a bypass near an outer perimeter of the first inner end cap device, the first inner end cap device has an inner port, the inner port fluidly coupled with the channels of the membrane, where the bypass includes a space between the housing and the first inner end cap device. A first outer end cap device is coupled with the first inner end cap device; the first outer end cap device has a first port and a second port, where the first port is fluidly separate from the second port, and the first port is fluidly coupled with the inner port.