Open-Cell Suction Hood Filter Module for Low-Clog Odour Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Suction hoods face limitations in filtering efficiency due to clogging from substances like fats and aromatic compounds, requiring frequent maintenance and increased energy consumption for high suction power, and existing solutions like active carbon are prone to deactivation and increase noise.
Innovation Solution
A filtering module using a plastic or metal or silicone material with interconnected open cells, specifically polyurethane foam based on polyester polyols, with porosity between 10 and 90 Ppi, which acts as the sole adsorbent material, eliminating the need for additional adsorbents and reducing maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filtering elements with high filtering capacity are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but suctioning capacity is limited and energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the filtering element by using open-cell foam structures with controlled porosity (10-90 PPI) and specific density ranges (20-110 kg/m³). This allows the filter to maintain high filtering efficiency while preserving suctioning capacity, eliminating the need for extremely strong suctioning motors and reducing energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material structures, specifically foamed materials with interconnected open cells that combine filtering and adsorbent properties in a single element. This composite approach allows simultaneous achievement of high filtering capacity and maintained suctioning performance without requiring multiple separate components.
2Reliability
If filtering elements with high filtering capacity are used, then filtering efficiency is improved, but noise production increases
Solution Approach 1:
By optimizing the porosity (10-90 PPI) and density (20-110 kg/m³) parameters of the open-cell foam filtering element, the patent achieves high filtering efficiency while minimizing turbulence-induced noise. The controlled cell structure reduces air flow disruption compared to traditional high-capacity filters.
3Reliability
If adsorbent materials like active carbon are used, then elimination of unwanted odours is improved, but deactivation by oil and fat deposition occurs rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses porous open-cell foam materials with interconnected cells that provide adsorbent properties without the rapid deactivation issues of active carbon. The open cell structure allows oil and fat to be trapped within the foam matrix rather than coating and deactivating the adsorbent surface, maintaining both odour elimination and service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering element combines foam material with adsorbent properties in a single composite structure that resists deactivation by cooking oils and fats, extending service life while maintaining odour elimination capability.
4Reliability
If traditional filtering elements are used, then initial filtering is effective, but clogging occurs after extended use requiring frequent maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The open-cell foam structure with interconnected porosity (10-90 PPI) prevents clogging by allowing oil and fat to be absorbed into the three-dimensional cell network rather than blocking surface passages. This maintains filtering efficiency over extended periods and reduces maintenance frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs inexpensive foamed plastic or similar materials that can be easily replaced when needed, providing a cost-effective solution that maintains high filtering efficiency without requiring complex maintenance procedures. The filtering elements are designed for long service life but remain replaceable at low cost.
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
This solution provides efficient filtration of food preparation effluents with low maintenance, reduced energy consumption, and easy regeneration/recycling, while maintaining high filtering efficiency and sound absorption characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible or rigid filtering element wherein the only adsorbent material is a plastic or metal or silicone material with interconnected open cells
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention regards a module for suction hoods, its use and a hood comprising said module. The module has the characteristic of comprising a flexible or rigid filtering element in which the filtering material is a plastic or metal or silicone material with interconnected open cells.