Vacuum Filter Device Compression Seal Sterility
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum filter devices for biological solutions are inconvenient for laboratory use due to issues like spills, sterility compromise, and excessive waste generation, and they often restrict the types of filters that can be used.
Innovation Solution
A vacuum filter device with two closed container holders and a compression sealing element that allows for a wide variety of filters, maintaining a pressure differential through a venting passageway aligned with atmospheric pressure, ensuring continuous filtration without spills or sterility issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If an open funnel is used for receiving sample solution, then the device is simple to construct, but spills and sterility compromise occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible membrane filter that can be sealed within a closed funnel assembly. The membrane acts as a barrier that maintains sterility while allowing filtration, and the closed structure with proper sealing prevents spills and contamination throughout the filtration process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vacuum port and vacuum source as an intermediary mechanism to create negative pressure that draws liquid through the filter membrane. This controlled vacuum system replaces the need for open pouring and manual handling, thereby preventing spills and maintaining sterility
2Productivity
If vacuum is drawn downstream of the membrane, then filtration rate increases, but pressure differential maintenance becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functions into a single compact assembly: the funnel serves as both the receiving container and the vacuum chamber, the membrane filter acts as both the filtration barrier and the seal between chambers, and the vacuum port provides both pressure control and flow drive. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall device while maintaining effective vacuum-driven filtration
3Reliability
If disposable containers are used for filtration, then sterility is maintained, but solid waste generation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent design allows the funnel assembly and membrane filter to be reused after proper cleaning and sterilization procedures. Only the liquid samples and contaminated collection containers are disposed of, significantly reducing solid waste compared to completely disposable systems while maintaining sterility through the reusable sealed assembly
4Reliability
If a closed filtration system is used, then sterility is preserved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the funnel, membrane filter, vacuum chamber, and collection container into a single integrated closed system. The membrane is sealed directly within the funnel structure, creating hermetic seals that preserve sterility without requiring multiple separate components or complex assembly procedures
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 device provides efficient, sterile filtration with reduced waste and the ability to use a wide range of filters, maintaining a consistent pressure differential for uninterrupted flow, thus enhancing laboratory convenience and filter compatibility.
Implementation Method 1
a compression sealing element made of an elastic material that is resiliently sealed to the upper surface of the filter
Implementation Method 2
a vacuum is drawn downstream of the membrane to increase the rate of filtration by creating a pressure differential across the filter
Implementation Method 3
a membrane filter interposed between two vessels, a feed container located upstream of the membrane for holding the sample solution to be filtered and a filtrate container located downstream of the membrane filter for collecting the filtered sample solution
Data Source
AI summary
A vacuum filter device comprising a filter body having two holders on opposite sides of a filter. Each holder contains a closed container in a fluid-tight, sealed relationship. The filter is retained by a compression sealing element and the sealing element is maintained in place by a compression element formed of a ring. The compression element is bonded to a portion of the body to hold it, the sealing element and filter in place under a compression seal. Optionally a port in the compression element is formed to align with the vent of the device. Further, an alignment feature on the compression element ensures the port is in alignment with the vent of the device. The device also includes a vacuum port communicating with the downstream side of the filter, and hence the filtrate container.