RFID-Tagged Filter Modules for Filter Life and Setting Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filtration systems face challenges in ensuring effective and efficient operation due to variable environmental conditions and the need for accurate determination of filter life, often leading to inadequate removal of contaminants and potential health hazards.

Innovation Solution

The integration of Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology in filtration systems through RFID or NFC tags on filter modules allows for real-time monitoring and adjustment of operational settings based on specific filter parameters, ensuring optimal performance and timely replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional filtration systems are used without RFID tags, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to accurately determine filter life and adjust operational settings is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter life determination accuracyVSAvoidsystem structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter module performs self-identification and self-reporting of its parameters through the RFID tag. When the filter module is installed, the RFID access device automatically interrogates the RFID tag to obtain filter-specific parameters, eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex external monitoring systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual tracking and mechanical identification methods with RFID technology. The RFID tag stores filter life parameters and operational settings, which are wirelessly transmitted to the filtration system controller, substituting complex mechanical tracking systems with a compact electronic solution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If operational settings are not adjusted based on specific filter parameters, then the system operation is simple, but the filtration efficiency and effectiveness are reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration efficiencyVSAvoidoperational settings complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filtration system dynamically adjusts its operational settings based on the specific filter module installed. The controller modifies airflow rates, pump speeds, and other parameters in real-time according to the RFID-tagged filter characteristics, ensuring optimal performance for each specific filter type and application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters such as airflow rate, pressure differential, and cycle timing based on the filter module's specific parameters stored in the RFID tag. This allows the same filtration system to be optimized for different filter media, contaminant types, and application requirements without hardware modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Duration of action of stationary object

If filter replacement is delayed beyond optimal life, then operational time is extended, but contaminant removal effectiveness decreases and health hazards increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter operational timeVSAvoidcontaminant removal effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The RFID tag provides continuous feedback on filter usage, environmental conditions, and performance degradation. The system monitors parameters such as pressure differential, airflow resistance, and contaminant load, automatically determining when filter replacement is necessary to maintain effective contaminant removal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system proactively monitors filter condition and predicts remaining service life before the filter becomes ineffective. By tracking operational parameters and comparing them against RFID-stored baseline data, the system alerts users to replace filters before performance degradation compromises health safety.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This approach enhances filtration efficiency and effectiveness by ensuring appropriate operational settings and predicting filter life, thereby reducing health risks and maintaining system performance throughout the filter's lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

a radio-frequency identification (RFID) access device communicatively couplable to the RFID tag and positioned or positionable proximate to the opening for the RFID filter module for interrogating the RFID tag when the RFID tag is installed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRadio-frequency identification (RFID): Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS12357935B2Filter module with radio-frequency identification tag for tuning a filtration system
Publication Date: 2025.07.15 PURAFIL INC
  • US12357935B2 patent drawing
  • US12357935B2 patent drawing
  • US12357935B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques for filtration systems are disclosed. In an example, a filtration system interrogates, via a radio-frequency identification (RFID) access device, a RFID tag that is positioned on a filter module that is positioned in the filtration system. In response to interrogating the RFID tag, the filtration accesses, an operational parameter stored on the RFID tag and associated with the filter module. The filtration adjusts an operational setting of the filtration system based on the operational parameter. The filtration system operates the filtration system based on the adjusted operational setting.