Vertical Filtration Modules with Integrated End Cap Collecting Lines

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filtration systems are space-intensive and require numerous complex components for assembly, leading to inefficiencies in space usage and potential leaks during assembly.

Innovation Solution

A filtration system design featuring collecting lines that run along the end faces of filtration modules, eliminating the need for separate connecting parts between modules and lines, with a compact structure achieved by arranging additional rows of modules parallel to the main rows and using T-shaped connecting lines for filtrate outlets, allowing for flexible construction and leak detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If filtration modules are arranged vertically in a frame with transverse connecting pipes, then the filtration system can be assembled, but it requires quite a large amount of space and many connecting components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly complexityVSAvoidspace requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The collecting line is integrated directly into the end cap of the filtration module, merging two separate components (collecting line and end cap) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for separate transverse connecting pipes and reduces the number of connecting components, thereby reducing both assembly complexity and space requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The end cap serves multiple functions: it closes the filtration module, provides connection points for the collecting line, and integrates the collecting line structure directly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system design

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

2Ease of manufacture

If connecting pipes are arranged on the front side of horizontal filtration modules and branch out coaxially, then connections can be made, but it requires quite a large number of individual components which are complicated to assemble

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly simplicityVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collecting line is merged with the end cap structure, eliminating separate connecting pipes and reducing the number of individual components. This integration simplifies assembly by reducing the number of parts that need to be connected and aligned

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The complex coaxial branching connection system is extracted and replaced with a simpler direct integration approach where the collecting line is built into the end cap, removing the need for separate connecting components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Area of stationary object

If the filtrate collection line is integrated within the collection lines on the inflow side, then compactness is achieved, but leaks are difficult to detect and assembly requires particular attention to tight connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem compactnessVSAvoidleak detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The collecting line is made transparent or translucent, allowing visual detection of leaks and air bubbles. This transparency provides a simple and effective leak detection method without compromising the compact integrated design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The transparent collecting line acts as an intermediary that allows observation of the internal flow and potential leaks. The transparency serves as a mediator between the internal filtration process and external monitoring

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 solution reduces installation effort, increases flow rate in a space-saving manner, and enhances system compactness while minimizing leaks and assembly complexity.

Implementation Method 1

Modern filtration membranes, for example, have several individual porous capillaries or flat membranes. In the case of capillary membranes, the liquid to be filtered is pressed into them. The filtered liquid then penetrates through the porous capillary walls.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP1743690B1Filtration unit with multiple vertical filtration modules in row
Publication Date: 2008.12.10 INGE AG
  • EP1743690B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP1743690B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP1743690B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

A filter system comprises rows (7a, 7b) of filter modules (2). These are fitted with liquid inlets (3a) at their upper ends and are linked at the top and bottom by horizontal liquid collection pipes (4a-4d). Each module has a branch (9, 9') at the top which connects with a filtrate collection pipe (6). The liquid collection pipes are connected to the modules by vertical branch pipes (8).