Rotating Jet Air Filter Cleaning Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filter cleaning methods for heavy off-road and over the road vehicles are inefficient, as they often damage the filtering medium or fail to remove all particulates, especially when using high-pressure air or manual striking, and are not suitable for air filters of varying lengths and diameters, and require frequent replacement which is costly.
Innovation Solution
A portable air filter cleaning apparatus using a pressurized fluid flow to rotate air spraying jets within the filter's aperture, with a set of plates and centering pins for proper positioning and efficient air flow direction, allowing for cleaning of filters of different lengths and diameters using low air pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high pressure air is used to clean air filters, then particulate removal efficiency is improved, but the filtering medium may be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the pressure parameter from high to low, using low-pressure air flow to clean the filter. This resolves the contradiction by maintaining cleaning effectiveness while eliminating the harmful high-pressure damage to the filtering medium.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a pneumatic system with air nozzles that distribute air flow across the filter surface. The pneumatic design allows controlled air delivery that effectively removes particulates without concentrating force at single points, thus preventing medium damage.
2Reliability
If air filters are cleaned frequently on heavy off-road vehicles, then engine performance is maintained, but replacement costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention enables operators to clean air filters themselves using a portable device, eliminating the need for professional service or expensive replacements. This self-service capability maintains engine performance while avoiding replacement costs.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding (replacing) the filter when it accumulates particulates, the invention recovers the filter's functionality by cleaning it in place. This extends filter life and eliminates replacement costs while maintaining engine performance.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a portable cleaning device is designed for various filter sizes, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses universal mounting members with adjustable components that can accommodate different filter diameters and lengths. The air nozzles and mounting system are designed to adapt to various filter sizes without requiring multiple specialized devices, achieving versatility through a single multi-functional design.
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
Effectively removes particulates from air filters without damaging the filtering medium, suitable for various filter sizes, and operates efficiently at low air pressure, reducing maintenance costs and improving engine performance by maintaining airflow.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention utilizes a pressurized fluid flow, preferably air, to rotate a set of air spraying jets inside an aperture or cavity of a filter
Implementation Method 2
rotate a set of air spraying jets inside an aperture or cavity of a filter
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for cleaning air filters utilizes a pressurized fluid flow, preferably air, to rotate a set of air spraying jets inside a hollow interior of a filter in order to remove particles from the filter. To ensure proper positioning of the jets in relation to the filter the present invention uses a set of plates with slots and pins, wherein the pins secure the apparatus on one end of the filter. The set of plates also at least partially blocks the flow of air out of the ends to more efficiently direct the flow of air from the jets to the filter. The jets then may be moved reciprocated along the length of the filter for cleaning purposes.