Retractable Filter Pipe for Online Analyzer Filtration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Industrial water filtration systems face issues with clogging and plugging due to debris, particularly in process pipes, where existing self-cleaning strainers require excessive water flow, making them unsuitable for applications like primary wastewater treatment plant effluent streams.

Innovation Solution

A filtration apparatus with a filter pipe and retraction assembly, where the filter pipe is inserted into a process pipe with filter holes to block debris and a self-cleaning mechanism using compressed air or water to automatically clear blockages, allowing for efficient debris removal without shutting down the system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If self-cleaning strainers are used in process pipes, then debris can be cleared automatically, but large amounts of water or sample flow are required which is not sustainable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic cleaning capabilityVSAvoidwater or sample flow consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The filter pipe is divided into multiple sections with filter holes distributed along its length, allowing segmented cleaning zones. This enables targeted cleaning of specific sections rather than requiring complete system flush, reducing overall water consumption while maintaining effective debris removal capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses pneumatic pressure (compressed air) injected through the filter pipe to generate fluid dynamics for debris removal. By utilizing gas-phase pneumatic pressure rather than relying solely on liquid flow volume, the system achieves effective cleaning with reduced water consumption.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #29Pneumatics and hydraulics

2Object-affected harmful factors

If basket strainers are used for water filtration, then debris can be filtered, but the strainers are susceptible to plugging and clogging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris filtrationVSAvoidresistance to plugging and clogging
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary cleaning actions by continuously injecting compressed air through the filter holes to prevent debris accumulation. This proactive approach removes particles before they can accumulate and cause plugging, maintaining reliable filtration without interrupting operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The filter pipe performs self-cleaning through automated injection of compressed air that flows through the filter holes to dislodge and remove debris. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for manual intervention or system shutdown, maintaining continuous reliable operation while preventing plugging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If filter pipe is installed in process pipe, then continuous filtration is achieved, but installation and removal require system disruption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontinuous filtration operationVSAvoidinstallation and removal convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The compression gland provides a dynamic, adjustable mounting mechanism that allows the filter pipe to be easily positioned and secured at various locations along the process pipe. This dynamic adjustment capability enables quick installation and removal without permanent modifications or system disruption, while maintaining continuous filtration during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system utilizes adjustable compression parameters through the compression gland mechanism to secure the filter pipe in place during operation. By changing compression force parameters, the filter can be firmly installed for continuous operation or easily released for removal, providing flexibility without disrupting the process pipe system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 apparatus effectively prevents debris from entering analysis devices, ensures continuous operation by allowing for automatic cleaning, and can be easily installed and removed without disrupting industrial processes, enhancing the reliability of industrial water filtration systems.

Implementation Method 1

the distal portion of the filter pipe comprises one or more filter holes, and the liquid is allowed to flow from the process pipe, through the filter pipe, and into the conduit, wherein the one or more filter holes prevent passage of debris contained in the liquid into the filter pipe

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

a proximal end of the retraction assembly is attached to a distal end of a conduit... wherein the self-cleaning mechanism uses compressed air or water to automatically clear blockages

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPneumatic cleaning: Pulse Jet

Data Source

PatentUS11639883B2Method and apparatus for filtration of samples for online analyzers
Publication Date: 2023.05.02 ECOLAB USA INC
  • US11639883B2 patent drawing
  • US11639883B2 patent drawing
  • US11639883B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A filtration apparatus and methods of installing, using, and retracting the same. A filtration apparatus includes a compression gland, a ball valve, and a filter pipe. A distal portion of the filter pipe has one or more filtration holes. The filtration apparatus may be installed in a process pipe and the distal portion of the filter pipe may be disposed within the process pipe. The filter pipe can be easily retracted from the process pipe without interruption of the industrial process. The filtration apparatus can be automatically cleaned by compressed air or water.