Universal Filter Lid for Sterilization Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sterilization containers require multiple lids with integrated filters to accommodate different types of filters, leading to inventory management challenges and increased costs, while also posing difficulties in ensuring the materials used can withstand sterilization conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular lid design with a universal closure system that allows for easy integration and swapping of various filters, including Teflon, valve, and sterile barriers, using materials like aluminum or plastic that can withstand sterilization temperatures, pressures, and durations, along with a self-contained receiving housing and airtight sealing mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lids with integrated filters are used to accommodate different types of filters, then filter compatibility is improved, but inventory management complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lid is designed with a universal filter holder that can accommodate multiple types of filters (Teflon, valve, sterile barriers) through a standardized interface. The filter holder includes a recessed seating area and retaining structure that works with various filter geometries, allowing a single lid design to serve multiple filter types rather than requiring dedicated lids for each filter variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtering system is divided into separate modular components: the lid, the filter holder, and the filter element itself. This segmentation allows the filter to be replaced independently without replacing the entire lid assembly, enabling users to maintain a single lid inventory while swapping different filter types as needed.
2Reliability
If filters are integrated directly into the lid, then sealing effectiveness is improved, but ease of filter replacement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into a removable filter holder that interfaces with the lid. The holder includes engagement features (such as clips, tabs, or threading) that allow it to be securely attached to and detached from the lid without special tools. This segmentation maintains the sealing integrity when attached while enabling easy replacement when detached.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holder employs dynamic retention mechanisms such as spring-loaded clips, snap-fit tabs, or threaded connections that provide secure holding during sterilization operations but allow for simple manual release. This dynamic design ensures the filter remains reliably sealed during use while facilitating easy removal and replacement by the operator.
3Ease of manufacture
If a standardized lid design is used, then manufacturing costs are reduced, but adaptability to different filter types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lid incorporates a universally designed filter holder with standardized dimensions, mounting features, and sealing interfaces that can accommodate multiple filter types. This universal design allows the lid to be manufactured as a single standard part while still supporting various filter configurations through the adaptable holder mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter holder is designed as a nested component that fits within the lid structure, with the filter element itself nested within the holder. This nested arrangement allows the standardized lid to contain and support different filter types through the intermediate universal holder, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving filter adaptability.
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 the use of a single lid with multiple filter types, reducing inventory needs and ensuring effective sterilization by maintaining an airtight seal, while allowing for easy filter changes and user-friendly operation without tools.
Implementation Method 1
The receiving housing has a partial undercut on the side facing the cover, which serves to interact with corresponding hook elements of the fixing profile
Implementation Method 2
An embodiment of the receiving housing according to the invention also has a sealing ring on the side facing the cover
Implementation Method 3
a filter is integrated into the receiving housing
Implementation Method 4
it is important to ensure that the material used can sufficiently withstand the requirements of sterilization in terms of temperature, pressure and duration
Implementation Method 5
it is important to ensure that the material used can sufficiently withstand the requirements of sterilization in terms of temperature, pressure and duration
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6
AI summary
In the case of a filter for attachment to a lid (1) of a sterilizing container (S) with a receiving housing (2), the receiving housing (2) shall be releasably connected to the lid (1) by a universal closure and the filter (3) shall be integrated in the receiving housing (2).