Reverse Osmosis Filter Ram Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for removing and adding reverse osmosis filters from tubes are inefficient, often causing damage due to difficulty in alignment and compounded friction, leading to issues with impinging sensitive elements within the tubes.
Innovation Solution
A reverse osmosis filter ram apparatus with a controllable linear actuator and detachable connection brackets for steel and fiberglass tubes, allowing for precise alignment and movement of filters through the tubes without damaging them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual methods (pole or board with hammer) are used to dislodge filters, then filters can be removed from tubes, but damage occurs to tubes, filters, or ancillary equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized tool as an intermediary between the operator and the filter-tube system. This tool includes a ram mechanism that interfaces with the filter assembly and a controlled force application system that transfers removal force without impacting the tube walls directly, thus preventing damage while enabling filter extraction
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the crude mechanical hammering method with a controlled mechanical system featuring a ram, plunger, and bracket assembly. This substituted mechanical system provides controlled, directed force application through the filter's connection brackets rather than random impact through the tube walls, eliminating damage while maintaining removal capability
2Quantity of substance
If multiple filters are disposed serially within each reverse osmosis tube, then filtration capacity is increased, but difficulty in reaching and removing filters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the filter removal process into distinct operational zones. The bracket mechanism engages with connection brackets on individual filters, allowing selective engagement and removal of specific filters within the serial arrangement without requiring access to all filters simultaneously, thus maintaining ease of operation with increased filter quantity
3Ease of operation
If filters are pushed through tubes using manual methods, then alignment is difficult to achieve, but precise alignment is needed to prevent damage to sensitive elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces alignment brackets and guide structures as intermediaries between the filter assembly and the tube. These intermediaries provide mechanical guidance that automatically aligns the filter connection brackets with the tube opening, eliminating the need for manual alignment while preventing damage to sensitive elements within the tube
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an equipotential alignment system where the bracket connection points, guide structures, and tube opening are positioned at predetermined, matched locations. This ensures that when components are assembled, alignment occurs naturally without requiring precise manual positioning, thus maintaining ease of operation while achieving necessary precision
4Quantity of substance
If a plurality of filters is added to a reverse osmosis tube, then filtration capacity increases, but compounded friction makes it difficult to push filters through the tube
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a ram mechanism with plunger and bracket assembly as an intermediary force application device. This intermediary transfers pushing force directly to the filter connection brackets rather than applying force through the tube walls, enabling effective force transmission through multiple filters despite compounded friction, thus allowing increased filter quantity without excessive force requirements
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 adds and removes filters without damaging the tubes or ancillary equipment, addressing the challenges of alignment and friction, ensuring safe and efficient filter replacement and installation.
Implementation Method 1
the present invention comprises a base rack having a controllable linear actuator thereon, preferably a hydraulic ram apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A reverse osmosis filter ram apparatus comprises a base rack having a controllable linear actuator thereon, preferably a hydraulic ram apparatus. The ram apparatus comprises detachable and changeable connection brackets configured to alternately connect to steel reverse osmosis tubes and fiberglass reverse osmosis tubes. The linear actuator comprises a plunger head that is configured to push one or more spools within a reverse osmosis tube for moving tubular reverse osmosis filters therein, either for adding the same from the reverse osmosis tube or removal of the same from the reverse osmosis tube. Systems and methods of using the same are further provided.