Modular Filtration Platform With Self-Locking Cartridges

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filtration systems face challenges with filter replacement compliance, retention during operation, modularity, and the ability to adapt to different filtration schemes, particularly in domestic and commercial settings where multiple filters are required for diverse applications.

Innovation Solution

A modular filtration system with a locking mechanism that secures filter cartridges to a manifold head, allowing easy assembly and disassembly, and includes sensors for monitoring fluid parameters and providing communication feedback for timely maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a modular filtration system with locking mechanism is implemented, then filter retention during operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter retentionVSAvoidlocking mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filtration system is divided into modular filter cartridges that can be independently attached and detached from the manifold. Each filter cartridge is a separate unit with its own housing and filter media, allowing individual replacement without affecting other filters in the system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism incorporates a dynamic push-bar component that automatically engages with the manifold when the filter cartridge is inserted. The push-bar features a resilient element that provides automatic locking upon insertion, transforming the static connection into a dynamic self-securing mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If filter cartridges are made easily attachable and removable, then ease of operation is improved, but filter retention during operation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacementVSAvoidfilter retention
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism incorporates a dynamic push-bar component that automatically engages with the manifold when the filter cartridge is inserted. The push-bar features a resilient element that provides automatic locking upon insertion, transforming the static connection into a dynamic self-securing mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The filter cartridge assembly includes a self-securing mechanism where the push-bar automatically locks into the manifold upon insertion. The resilient element in the push-bar provides automatic engagement without requiring additional manual locking steps, enabling users to simply push the filter in for secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple filter types are used for diverse filtration needs, then adaptability is improved, but difficulty of detecting and measuring worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration configurationVSAvoidfilter monitoring
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The manifold is designed with universal ports and standardized connections that can accommodate multiple types of filter cartridges. The same manifold structure supports different filter media and configurations, allowing a single platform to fulfill diverse filtration requirements through modular filter selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates sensors that detect filter status, flow rates, and pressure differentials, providing feedback to the user about the condition of each filter cartridge. This monitoring capability enables timely detection of filter replacement needs and system performance issues across multiple filter types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Reliability

If a secure locking mechanism is added to prevent filter extraction, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter retentionVSAvoidfilter installation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism incorporates a dynamic push-bar component that automatically engages with the manifold when the filter cartridge is inserted. The push-bar features a resilient element that provides automatic locking upon insertion, transforming the static connection into a dynamic self-securing mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The filter cartridge assembly includes a self-securing mechanism where the push-bar automatically locks into the manifold upon insertion. The resilient element in the push-bar provides automatic engagement without requiring additional manual locking steps, enabling users to simply push the filter in for secure attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12458914B2Modular filtration platform
Publication Date: 2025.11.04 ECOWATER SYST LLC
  • US12458914B2 patent drawing
  • US12458914B2 patent drawing
  • US12458914B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A modular filtration platform having at least one manifold head and at least one respective filter cartridge assembly. Each manifold head is connected to one another to establish a water flow in a series or parallel manner. Each filter cartridge assembly is releasably secured from rotation relative to the manifold head by a locking mechanism. An aperture on the filter cartridge assembly annular collar mates with a protruding resilient extension on either the manifold head or support bracket. Alternatively, an aperture on the filter cartridge assembly annular collar and an aperture on the manifold head annular collar mate with a protruding member from a locking ring extending through both apertures. An integrated sensor package may be integrated with the system for true managed water visible/audible indications and Wi-Fi interface to facilitate virtually instantaneous response times for filtration needs.