Reusable Air Filter With Removable Washable Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air filtration devices are not effectively reusable, leading to waste and inefficiency in indoor air quality management, as they are typically disposable and lack features for easy cleaning and replacement, which contributes to respiratory issues due to airborne microbes and particulates.

Innovation Solution

A modular, washable air filtration device with a removable filter component secured by zippers or elastic members, allowing for easy cleaning and reattachment, and adjustable frame members for customizable fit and efficient packaging.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of substance

If disposable filter elements are used, then air filtration is achieved, but waste is generated and the device cannot be reused

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovewasteVSAvoidreusability
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The air filtration device is divided into separable components: a reusable frame and a removable filter element. The frame can be repeatedly used while the filter element is detached, cleaned, and reattached, eliminating waste and enabling reuse of the main device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of discarding the entire filter device after use, the patent enables recovery and reuse of the frame structure. The filter element is removed for cleaning and reattachment, while the frame remains in service, significantly reducing material waste and extending device life.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

2Ease of operation

If the filter component is permanently attached to the frame, then structural integrity is maintained, but cleaning and replacement are difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning easeVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism transitions from permanent to dynamic/reversible. The filter element can be easily attached and detached from the frame using simple mechanical means (such as elastic members or clips), allowing frequent removal for cleaning while maintaining structural integrity during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Volume of stationary object

If the frame is rigid and fixed, then stability is provided, but packaging efficiency and storage space are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepackaging spaceVSAvoidframe stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of stationary objectVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure incorporates adjustable or collapsible elements that allow it to transition between a stable operational configuration and a compact storage configuration. This enables efficient packaging and storage while maintaining structural integrity when the device is in use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution provides enhanced cleaning efficiency and effectiveness while reducing waste, allowing for frequent cleaning and reuse, thus improving indoor air quality and reducing respiratory issues by effectively capturing airborne pollutants and microbes.

Implementation Method 1

The filter member is provided in a reusable device and secured to the frame member. The filter member is removable from the frame member to facilitate cleaning and/or replacement of the filter member and wherein at least a portion of the air filter device is provided as a reusable device.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhysical filtration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

The filter member is removable from the frame member to facilitate cleaning and/or replacement of the filter member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWashing:

Data Source

PatentUS10596501B2Reusable air filter device
Publication Date: 2020.03.24 AIRTHREDS LLC
  • US10596501B2 patent drawing
  • US10596501B2 patent drawing
  • US10596501B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An air filtration device is provided. The device comprises a frame member with a detachable filter element, and the filter element comprises a fabric, textile, or similar pliable material that is operable to be washed by various methods. Methods and devices include a filter element and various attachment mechanisms for securing the filter element to a frame and selectively removing the filter element for cleaning and replacement purposes.