Microfiber filtration system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional laundry appliances fail to effectively filter out microfibers from wastewater, leading to environmental contamination, as existing solutions either clog or are costly due to complex designs and additional parts.
Innovation Solution
A self-clearing filter system within the laundry appliance that uses a filter container with an inclined filter base and mesh screen to separate microfibers from wastewater, preventing clogging and allowing gravity to direct fluid flow, ensuring efficient filtration without the need for complex assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If filter screens are employed to remove microfibers, then microfiber removal effectiveness is improved, but the filter becomes clogged from accumulation of microfibers, hair, and other particulates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the harmful accumulation of microfibers and particulates from the filtration path by using a hydrocyclone separation mechanism. The centrifugal force generated by the hydrocyclone separates microfibers from the water stream before they can accumulate and clog traditional filter screens, allowing the screen to remain clear and functional throughout the wash cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical filtration system (filter screens that rely on direct contact and physical blocking) with a hydrodynamic separation system (hydrocyclone). This substitution uses fluid dynamics and centrifugal force to separate microfibers, eliminating the clogging problem inherent in mechanical screen filtration.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If centrifuges are employed to separate microfibers from wash effluent, then microfiber removal effectiveness is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to additional material parts and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the microfiber separation function directly into the existing pump assembly housing, eliminating the need for a separate centrifuge device. The hydrocyclone separator is integrated into the pump housing, allowing microfiber removal to be achieved without adding complex external assemblies or multiple material parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump assembly housing is given multiple functions: it continues to serve as the pump housing while also housing the hydrocyclone separator for microfiber removal. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate centrifuge equipment, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining effective microfiber separation.
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 system effectively removes microfibers from wastewater, preventing environmental contamination while maintaining appliance functionality and reducing costs by avoiding clogging and complex designs.
Implementation Method 1
The filter housing may be configured such that the fluid volume entering the fluid container inlet is directed to the fluid container outlet by force of gravity
Implementation Method 2
The filter base may also have at least one surface that is inclined such that the filter base includes an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein the upper portion of the filter base is orienting below the filter container inlet
Data Source
AI summary
A laundry appliance includes a cabinet, a tub, and a pump for recirculating wash fluid from the tub to a filter container. The filter container includes a fluid inlet in fluid communication with the pump and fluid outlet in fluid communication with the tub. The filter container also includes a filter housing for directing wash fluid from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet. A self-clearing filter assembly is provided within the filter housing. The self-clearing filter includes side walls and a filter base having at least one inclined surface. The self-clearing filter is situated such that the inclined surface is below the fluid inlet. The self-clearing filter prevents microfibers and other debris from passing through to the outlet of the filter container. Simultaneously, the force of the wash fluid on the inclined surface forces the microfibers and other debris to a trough, where it can be collected and disposed of.