Parallel Flow Filter Layout to Prevent Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow cytometers face challenges in efficiently removing contaminants from liquid samples without obstructing the flow path, leading to reduced efficiency and clogging of filters.
Innovation Solution
A filter design with parallel first and second flow paths of varying resistances, featuring linear and detour paths with filter portions, where contaminants are selectively captured in microtraps, allowing fluid to reroute based on path resistance, preventing clogging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single flow path with filter portion is used, then contaminant removal is achieved, but flow path obstruction and clogging occur
Solution Approach 1:
The flow path is divided into multiple parallel paths (first flow path and second flow path) with different resistance characteristics. The filter portion is segmented into first and second filter portions disposed in respective parallel paths, allowing contaminants to be removed while providing alternative routes for fluid flow to prevent complete clogging of any single path.
Solution Approach 2:
Different flow paths are designed with different resistance characteristics. The first flow path has lower resistance while the second flow path has higher resistance, creating local variations in flow distribution. This allows the system to optimize contaminant removal in the lower resistance path while maintaining continuous flow through the higher resistance path.
2Reliability
If filter portion is disposed in direct flow path, then contaminant capture is maximized, but flow obstruction increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is segmented into multiple parallel flow paths with filter portions distributed throughout. This segmentation allows contaminants to be captured in multiple locations simultaneously while providing parallel routes for fluid flow, reducing the overall resistance compared to a single direct path with a single filter portion.
Solution Approach 2:
The second flow path extends substantially perpendicular to the direct flow direction, introducing a dimensional change in the flow path geometry. This perpendicular extension creates a detour path that increases the effective flow area and reduces flow resistance while still allowing contaminant capture through the second filter portion.
3Productivity
If parallel filter portions are used, then continuous flow is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Both the first and second filter portions perform the same fundamental function of contaminant removal, yet they are configured with different resistance characteristics. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve continuous flow capability while using a relatively simple parallel configuration that does not require complex control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The parallel flow path configuration automatically distributes fluid flow based on resistance differences without requiring external control. The lower resistance first flow path naturally receives more flow while the higher resistance second flow path receives less flow, creating self-regulating flow distribution that maintains continuous operation.
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 filter effectively maintains continuous fluid flow by redirecting fluid through less obstructed paths, ensuring efficient contaminant removal and prolonged operation by minimizing clogging.
Implementation Method 1
a first filter portion which is a filter portion configured to remove contaminants from the liquid
Data Source
AI summary
A filter includes an inlet through which a liquid is introduced, an outlet through which the liquid is discharged, a flow path through which the liquid flows from the inlet to the outlet, a first filter portion (for example, an A filter portion) which is a filter portion configured to remove contaminants from the liquid and is disposed in a first flow path that is the flow path, and a second filter portion (a B filter portion to a J filter portion) which is filter portion and is disposed in a second flow path that is the flow path at least partially different from the first flow path, wherein the first flow path and the second flow path have different flow path resistances.