Segmented Filter Element Support Structure for Pleated Media
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter elements face challenges in providing adequate structural support to pleated filter media while maintaining a high filtration surface area and flow efficiency, often requiring complex and non-modular support structures that limit versatility and performance.
Innovation Solution
A filter element design featuring a single elongate brace with coupled support ribs, forming an inner support structure that provides incremental support along the length, allowing pleated filter media to be wrapped around it, thereby maintaining structural integrity and increasing filtration surface area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional support structures are used to provide adequate structural support to pleated filter media, then structural integrity is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into a single elongate brace with multiple support ribs attached at incremental intervals along its length. This segmentation provides distributed structural support throughout the filter element while maintaining a simple, modular design that is easier to manufacture than traditional complex support structures.
2Reliability
If complex support structures are used to maintain structural integrity, then reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into a main elongate brace and multiple detachable support ribs that can be manufactured separately and assembled through simple interference fits. This segmentation enables each component to be manufactured using standard processes and simplifies assembly, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The interference-fit connectors act as intermediaries between the elongate brace and support ribs, providing a simple yet reliable connection mechanism that maintains structural integrity without requiring complex fastening systems or specialized manufacturing processes.
3Productivity
If more support ribs are added to increase filtration surface area, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple support ribs are distributed at incremental intervals along the elongate brace, maximizing the filtration surface area by enabling longer filter element lengths without increasing overall structural complexity. The modular segmented design allows easy adjustment of rib spacing and数量 to optimize surface area for different applications.
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 design enhances the structural support of pleated filter media, increases filtration surface area, and allows for modular construction, enabling higher fluid flow rates and extended service intervals while simplifying manufacturing processes.
Implementation Method 1
Each support rib has a connector defining an interference-fit with the elongate brace
Data Source
AI summary
The current technology relates to a filter element having pleated filter media. The pleated filter media defines an elongate tubular structure having an inner passageway. The pleated filter media has outer pleat folds and inner pleat folds each extending from a first end to a second end of the elongate tubular structure. The filter element has no more than one elongate brace disposed in the inner passageway, extending between the first end and the second end. A plurality of support ribs are coupled to the elongate brace, where each support rib has a connector defining an interference-fit with the elongate brace. Each support rib partially defines the inner passageway and has an outer support surface that abuts a substantial portion of the inner pleat folds.