Automatic Regenerating Filter Using Reverse-Flow Unclogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing regenerative filters experience rapid wear due to contact between parts, especially when filtering fluids with abrasive or adhesive materials, leading to reduced filtration efficiency over time.
Innovation Solution
A filter design that isolates chambers using closure means to reduce pressure and reverse the flow of fluid through the filter element, combined with guillotine valves and multiple filtering groups to unclog elements without wear, allowing continuous flow and efficient regeneration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If regenerative filters are used to unclog filter elements, then filtration efficiency is maintained over longer periods, but contact parts wear out quickly reducing filter efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based unclogging mechanisms with a pressure differential system. Instead of using mechanical scrapers or brushes that physically contact the filter element, the invention uses controlled pressure changes (creating suction or positive pressure) to reverse fluid flow and remove deposits. This eliminates mechanical wear on contact parts while maintaining the ability to unclog filter elements, thus resolving the contradiction between extended filtration duration and contact part reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs pneumatic or hydraulic pressure differentials to achieve unclogging without mechanical contact. By controlling fluid pressure to create reverse flow through the filter element, deposits are removed hydraulically rather than mechanically. This approach maintains filtration efficiency over time without the wear problems associated with mechanical contact parts, directly addressing the technical contradiction.
2Productivity
If automatic regeneration is implemented, then continuous operation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service automatic regeneration system where the filter cleans itself through controlled pressure differential reversal. The system automatically switches between filtration mode and regeneration mode without external intervention, using the same fluid stream to both filter and clean the filter element. This automation enables continuous operation while the self-service nature minimizes the complexity of external control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the filter system multi-functional by using the same basic structure and fluid stream for both filtration and regeneration operations. The closure means and pressure control system serve dual purposes: controlling fluid flow during filtration and creating pressure differentials for regeneration. This universality reduces overall device complexity compared to having separate systems for filtration and cleaning, enabling continuous operation with moderate complexity increase.
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
Maintains high filtration efficiency over a longer period by unclogging filter elements without wear, enabling continuous operation and reducing the time required for regeneration.
Implementation Method 1
The discharge means then reduces the pressure within the chamber, making it lower than the pressure in the downstream volume. This results in a flow of clean fluid passing through the filter element in the opposite direction to the filtration direction.
Data Source
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Figure 2
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AI summary
This filter (2) comprises an upstream volume, a downstream volume, and at least one filtering means comprising a housing (51) in fluidic communication with the upstream volume, the filtering means comprising a filtering element (50) interposed between the housing (51) and the downstream volume. The filtering means comprises a closure means adapted to prevent fluidic communication between the upstream volume and the housing (51), the filter (2) comprising a discharge means adapted to discharge a fluid contained in the housing (51).