Segmented Multi-Stage Screen Filter for Micro-Irrigation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional micro-irrigation systems face issues with timely and accurate filtration warnings, energy consumption, and space utilization due to complex filter structures and the need for continuous water supply during cleaning, which are not adequately addressed by existing solutions.

Innovation Solution

A self-alarm multi-stage complex screen filter with a segmented housing, multi-stage screen filtering elements, and a segmented brush system that includes a differential pressure gauge connected to a PLC controller for remote monitoring and wireless communication, allowing for easy installation, disassembly, and continuous operation without stopping the irrigation system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple filters are connected in series for multi-stage filtration, then filtration accuracy and flow are improved, but space occupation and pipe connections increase, leading to higher cost and energy consumption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration accuracyVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple filtration stages into a single integrated filter device, merging several filter elements that would traditionally require separate filters connected in series. This consolidation achieves the same multi-stage filtration accuracy while significantly reducing space occupation and eliminating the need for multiple pipe connections between separate filters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs a nested structure where multiple filter elements are arranged concentrically within a single housing. The filter elements are positioned one inside another, creating a compact multi-stage filtration system that achieves high filtration accuracy without occupying large space, as each filter stage is nested within the previous one

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Ease of operation

If conventional screen filter cleaning is performed, then filter screen is cleaned, but water supply to the micro-irrigation system must be stopped or a parallel filter device connected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter cleaning convenienceVSAvoidirrigation system continuity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter device is segmented into multiple independent filtration stages, each with its own filter element. This segmentation allows individual filter elements to be cleaned or replaced without affecting the entire filtration system, enabling maintenance of one stage while other stages continue to provide filtration and maintain water supply to the irrigation system

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the multi-stage filtration system with bypass capabilities and redundant filter elements, ensuring that filtration function continues uninterrupted during cleaning operations. When one filter element requires cleaning, the system can switch to alternative pathways or remaining functional stages, maintaining continuous water supply and irrigation productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Difficulty of detecting and measuring

If filter cleaning warning device using buzzer is used, then cleaning warning is achieved, but only nearby warning is possible and cannot achieve remote forewarning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecleaning warning capabilityVSAvoidremote notification capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Difficulty of detecting and measuringVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a differential pressure sensor that continuously monitors filtration status and provides feedback to a control system. When the pressure differential indicates the filter needs cleaning, the system automatically generates alerts through multiple channels including remote communication devices, ensuring timely notification to operators regardless of their location

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical acoustic warning devices (buzzers) with electronic sensing and communication systems. Differential pressure sensors detect filtration status changes, and this information is transmitted through electrical and wireless communication systems to remote devices, enabling forewarning and notification capabilities that extend far beyond the immediate vicinity of the filter

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

4Adaptability or versatility

If two outfalls are provided in two-stage manual cleaning filter, then filtering stages are separated, but two outfalls need to be turned on separately and sequentially during flushing, reducing efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration stage separationVSAvoidflushing efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamically controllable valves and automated control systems that can rapidly switch between different outfall configurations. The system can dynamically adjust which outfalls are active and in what sequence, allowing flexible adaptation to different cleaning needs while maintaining high flushing efficiency through automated, rapid switching rather than manual sequential operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 solution provides convenient installation and maintenance, reduces energy consumption, and ensures continuous water supply during filter cleaning, with remote forewarning and warning capabilities, optimizing space utilization and reducing operational costs.

Implementation Method 1

A differential pressure gauge is provided between the water inlet and the water outlet. The differential pressure gauge is connected to a PLC controller.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectDifferential pressure measurement: Pressure Drop

Implementation Method 2

The PLC controller is provided with the alarm and an indicating light.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroacoustic conversion:

Data Source

PatentUS10232290B2Multistage complex water screen filter with automatic alarm in micro-irrigation and its composition method
Publication Date: 2019.03.19 FARMLAND IRRIGATION RES INST CHINESE ACAD OF AGRI SCI
  • US10232290B2 patent drawing
  • US10232290B2 patent drawing
  • US10232290B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to a self-alarm multi-stage complex screen filter for micro-irrigation and the assembly method thereof. The filter comprises a housing, an alarm, a multi-stage screen filtering element, and a segmented brush. The housing comprises a left housing, a middle housing, and a right housing. The multi-stage screen filtering element comprises a plurality of screen filter cylinders. The segmented brush comprises a plurality of bristle frames, a plurality of connecting rods, a connector and a power device. The middle housing is provided with a water inlet. The left housing is provided with a discharge pipe. The installation, disassembly, repair, maintenance of the filter of the present invention can be done more conveniently.