Rotating Filter Element Self-Cleaning Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter technologies require inefficient and resource-intensive methods for self-cleaning, lacking in effective regeneration and energy conservation while maintaining filtration quality.
Innovation Solution
A self-cleaning filter assembly with a rotating filter element and centrifugal rinsing mechanism, utilizing ultrasonic transducers and distinct cleaning and rinsing liquids to dislodge and remove particulates, minimizing waste and energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional ex-situ cleaning apparatus is used to clean filters, then the filter can be cleaned, but the filter must be removed from its installation location and significant water and energy resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly performs self-cleaning through an integrated cleaning mechanism that rotates the filter element and delivers cleaning liquid to its surface, eliminating the need for external cleaning equipment and manual intervention. The system uses its own structure (motor, spray bar, centrifugal force) to clean itself in-situ, reducing resource consumption and operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning mechanism extracts the filter element from its normal stationary position by rotating it, allowing cleaning liquid to be delivered effectively to the filter surface. This rotational extraction enables the cleaning function to be performed independently within the housing without removing the entire filter assembly.
2Loss of time
If in-situ filter cleaning is implemented, then the filter can be cleaned without removal, but traditional methods require significant water consumption and energy use
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly operates in periodic cycles, alternating between filtration mode and self-cleaning mode. During cleaning cycles, the motor rotates the filter element and the spray bar delivers cleaning liquid intermittently. This periodic operation allows the filter to maintain functionality while consuming energy only during scheduled cleaning intervals rather than continuously.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element transitions from a static filtration position to a dynamic rotating position during cleaning. The motor-driven rotation and the movable spray bar create dynamic cleaning action that is more efficient than static cleaning methods, reducing both water and energy consumption while achieving effective cleaning.
3Productivity
If centrifugal force is used to rotate the filter element during cleaning, then cleaning efficiency is improved, but additional mechanical components and energy are required
Solution Approach 1:
The motor serves multiple functions: it drives the impeller for fluid circulation during filtration and rotates the filter element during cleaning. The spray bar also serves dual purposes by delivering both process fluid during filtration and cleaning liquid during cleaning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated cleaning components.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning mechanism is merged with the existing filtration system structure. The motor that already exists for fluid circulation is utilized to provide rotational motion for cleaning. The spray bar is integrated into the housing structure, combining cleaning delivery with the overall system architecture, thereby reducing additional mechanical complexity.
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 filter assembly efficiently regenerates the filter element, reduces liquid waste, optimizes ultrasonic energy use, and allows in-situ cleaning without backwashing, while conserving resources and energy.
Implementation Method 1
the centrifugal force created by rotating the filter element drives the rinsing liquid from the interior surface to the exterior surface of the filter element, thereby removing accumulated particulates on the exterior surface
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic generator suspended in the hollow interior of the filter. The ultrasonic generator may be activated during the cleaning step
Data Source
AI summary
A filter assembly and method of filtering a fluid containing particulates is provided having a filter element mounted on a horizontal mandrel, whereby the filter element and mandrel are rotatable within a housing during a self-cleaning step, wherein the filter element is immersed and agitated in a cleaning liquid followed by high speed rotation while a rinsing liquid is delivered to the core of the filter element. An ultrasonic transducer in the housing may be activated while the filter element is immersed in the cleaning liquid to assist in removing accumulated particulates from the filter element.