Opposite-End Filter Structure for Even Membrane Filtration
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Solution Overview
Problem
The contamination of separation membrane modules in water purifiers occurs predominantly in one direction, leading to uneven use of filtration areas and reduced performance, necessitating frequent replacement, which is difficult to manage in household systems due to the complexity and hazards of existing cleaning methods.
Innovation Solution
A filter structure that allows for alternating the direction of fluid flow through the separation membrane module by switching between forward and reverse filtering modes, controlled by a controller, to evenly distribute contamination and extend the service life of the membrane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If raw water is introduced in one direction through the separation membrane module, then filtration is performed efficiently, but contamination occurs predominantly in one direction leading to uneven use of filtration areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic reversal of the fluid flow direction through the separation membrane module. The controller switches between forward and reverse filtering modes at predetermined intervals, causing the raw water to flow in alternating directions. This periodic action ensures that contamination is distributed evenly across the entire membrane surface, preventing localized saturation and extending the service life of the filtration system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies inversion by reversing the conventional unidirectional flow approach. Instead of maintaining a constant flow direction, the system inverts the flow direction periodically. This is achieved by switching the inlet and outlet connections, causing raw water to enter from the opposite end of the membrane module, thereby distributing contamination uniformly across the membrane surface.
2Productivity
If the filtration area is used unevenly due to one-directional flow, then contamination concentrates in specific areas, but the overall service life is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is configured to switch between forward and reverse filtering modes at predetermined intervals, creating periodic flow direction changes. This ensures that all areas of the separation membrane module are used equally over time, preventing localized contamination accumulation and extending the service life of the filter structure.
Solution Approach 2:
By inverting the flow direction periodically, the patent ensures that contamination is distributed uniformly across the entire membrane surface rather than concentrating in one area. This inversion strategy maximizes the utilization of the filtration area and extends the operational lifespan of the membrane module.
3Reliability
If cleaning methods are used to maintain filtration performance, then contamination is removed, but the complexity and hazards of cleaning procedures increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-maintenance by automatically reversing the flow direction through the separation membrane module. This automatic flow reversal distributes contamination evenly and extends service life, reducing the need for manual cleaning interventions and simplifying maintenance procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically switches between forward and reverse filtering modes at predetermined intervals, providing periodic maintenance without manual intervention. This automated periodic action prevents contamination accumulation and maintains filtration performance, eliminating the need for complex cleaning procedures.
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 alternating flow direction evenly utilizes the filtration area, delaying contamination and extending the service life of the filter structure, reducing the need for frequent replacements and simplifying maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The separation membrane technology is a high-level technology for water treatment by separation and filtration that is for almost completely separating and removing substances to be treated present in treated water according to the pore size, pore distribution, and a membrane surface charge of the membrane.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes: a first sealing portion which has a first entry/exit selectively opened or closed by a first opening/closing valve and a second entry/exit selectively opened or closed by a second opening/closing valve and is configured to seal one end of a housing; a second sealing portion which has a third entry/exit selectively opened or closed by a third opening/closing valve and a fourth entry/exit selectively opened or closed by a fourth opening/closing valve, and is configured to seal the other end of the housing; and a controller which is configured to control the supply of raw water through any one of the first entry/exit and the second entry/exit or control the supply of raw water through any one of the third entry/exit and the fourth entry/exit.