Syringe Filter with Movable Carrier for Continuous Liquid Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filtration devices require frequent filter replacement and handling, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of contamination when filtering large volumes of liquid, as they necessitate multiple steps and syringe movements.
Innovation Solution
A filtration device with a movable filter carrier that allows liquid to bypass the filter during drawing and forces it through the filter during expulsion, enabling continuous filtration without filter removal or replacement, using a housing with valve means and a filter carrier that supports the filter within the device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a traditional syringe filter is used to filter large volumes of liquid, then the filtration function is achieved, but the filter must be frequently removed and replaced, increasing operation time and contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the filter and syringe into a single integrated device where the filter is permanently mounted within the syringe housing. This eliminates the need to separately handle and replace filters, allowing continuous filtration of large volumes without removing the filter or refilling the syringe.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter housing serves multiple functions: it acts as both the syringe body and the filter support structure. The same housing contains both the plunger mechanism for liquid withdrawal and the filter element for filtration, eliminating the need for separate filter cartridges and reducing operational steps.
2Quantity of substance
If a traditional syringe filter is used for large volume filtration, then the filtration function is achieved, but the risk of contamination increases due to multiple handling steps
Solution Approach 1:
By combining the filter and syringe into one integrated unit, the invention eliminates multiple disassembly and reassembly steps that are required in traditional systems. The filter remains permanently sealed within the syringe housing, preventing contamination during filter replacement and syringe refilling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated design enables continuous filtration operation where the plunger can be repeatedly withdrawn and pushed to draw and filter liquid without interrupting the filtration system. This continuous operation minimizes exposure to contamination risks associated with opening and closing the system multiple times.
3Productivity
If a Clyde in-line filter device is used for continuous filtration, then large volumes can be filtered continuously, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention achieves continuous filtration capability using a simple integrated syringe-filter device that can be easily manufactured. The same housing serves as both syringe and filter support, eliminating the need for complex separate components like the Clyde device's multiple pipes, valves, and separate filter housing, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger in the integrated device serves dual functions: it both draws liquid into the syringe and pushes liquid through the filter. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for additional pumps or complex valve systems required in other continuous filtration devices, simplifying the overall device structure.
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
Enables continuous filtration of large volumes without filter replacement, reducing contamination risks and operational burdens, while being cost-effective and easy to use, allowing for efficient handling of bulk solutions.
Implementation Method 1
the filter carrier is forced away from the valve seat when liquid is drawn into the apparatus to create a liquid path between the first and second openings that bypasses the filter, and is pushed against the valve seat to remove the liquid path when liquid is expelled from the apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a device comprising: a housing comprising a first opening for connecting to a liquid source, a second opening for connecting with an apparatus for drawing in and expelling liquid, and a valve means comprising a filter carrier and a filter, the filter carrier supporting the filter and being movable within the housing; wherein the valve means permits liquid that is drawn into the housing from the liquid source by the apparatus to enter the apparatus by bypassing the filter but which forces liquid that is subsequently pushed from the apparatus through the second opening into the housing to be filtered through the filter.