Tiltable Filter Holder with Disposable Capsules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional stacked, disk-type lenticular filtration systems are bulky, top-heavy, time-consuming to assemble, and require significant cleaning and sanitization, leading to cross-batch contamination, high environmental impact, and operator skill dependency, while also occupying large floor space.
Innovation Solution
A filtration system utilizing disposable filter capsules and a tiltable filter holder with a compression mechanism and casters, allowing for easy loading and unloading, reduced cleaning needs, and mobility between rooms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional stacked disk-type lenticular filters are used in a sanitary housing, then filtration is achieved, but the system becomes bulky, top-heavy, and occupies large floor space
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration system is segmented into modular filter cartridges that can be independently replaced. Each cartridge contains the filter media, and multiple cartridges are arranged in a compact configuration within a minimal housing, reducing overall system volume while maintaining filtration capacity through parallel flow paths.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple filter cartridges are nested or stacked in a compact arrangement within the housing, maximizing space utilization. The cartridges are arranged vertically or in tiers, allowing the system to achieve required filtration capacity in a smaller footprint compared to conventional horizontal stacking.
2Loss of time
If conventional filters are assembled and disassembled, then filter replacement is possible, but the process is time-consuming and requires overhead lifts for heavy parts
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is divided into lightweight, modular cartridges that can be easily handled and replaced without heavy lifting equipment. Each cartridge is self-contained with standardized connection interfaces, allowing rapid installation and removal by hand or with simple tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing incorporates movable components such as sliding cartridges or rotatable access mechanisms that enable dynamic replacement of filter cartridges. This allows operators to quickly swap filters without disassembling the entire housing, significantly reducing replacement time and effort.
3Loss of time
If the sanitary housing and wetted parts are cleaned and sanitized between uses, then cross-contamination is prevented, but significant delay is added to processes and large quantities of sanitizing agents are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridges are designed as disposable single-use components that are discarded after one filtration cycle. This eliminates the need for cleaning and sanitization of wetted parts between uses, as each new cartridge is sterile and single-use, preventing cross-contamination without requiring time-consuming sanitization procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of cleaning and reusing expensive sanitary housing components, the system discards the disposable filter cartridges after use. The housing itself remains clean and reusable, while the disposable cartridges prevent cross-contamination between batches, eliminating both cleaning time and sanitizing agent consumption.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional filtration systems are bolted or fixed to the floor, then stability is achieved, but mobility between rooms is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is designed with movable features such as casters or removable mounting feet that allow the system to be easily relocated between rooms. When in position, the housing can be stabilized through locking mechanisms or bracing, providing both mobility and operational stability as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtration system is designed as a universal, standalone unit that can be deployed in multiple locations without permanent installation. The housing incorporates standardized connections and self-contained components that allow it to function effectively in different rooms or facilities, providing versatility while maintaining stability during operation.
5Strength
If heavy metallic parts are used in the system, then structural strength is achieved, but cleaning and sanitization become more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces heavy, cleanable metallic components with lightweight, disposable polymer or plastic parts. The filter cartridges and associated wetted components are made from single-use materials that eliminate cleaning requirements, significantly reducing time and effort for maintenance while providing sufficient structural strength for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing and components utilize composite materials such as reinforced plastics or polymer alloys that provide adequate structural strength without the weight and cleaning requirements of metallic materials. These materials can be designed to be lightweight yet sufficiently strong for the filtration application, eliminating the trade-off between strength and cleanability.
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter holder is disclosed comprising a base for supporting the filter holder on a work surface, a tilting mechanism attached to the base, and a holder arm attached to the tilting mechanism at a tilt axis. The holder arm comprises a base end and a distal end and is tiltable about the tilt axis to a service position and an ergonomic loading position.