U.S. patent application number 14/301207 was filed with the patent office on 2014-12-04 for filtration system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Porous Media Corporation. Invention is credited to Ralph Fuller, Mark Mickan.
Application Number | 20140353237 14/301207 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44971594 |
Filed Date | 2014-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140353237 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fuller; Ralph ; et
al. |
December 4, 2014 |
FILTRATION SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a filtration system
comprising a filter tank. In some embodiments, at least portions of
an inlet pipe and an outlet manifold can be positioned within the
filter tank. At least one manifold assembly can be coupled to the
outlet manifold and also can be positioned within the filter tank.
In some embodiments, the manifold assembly can include at least one
first aperture, at least one second aperture, and at least one
first cavity positioned within the manifold assembly. In some
embodiments, the second aperture can fluidly connect the first
cavity and the outlet manifold. Also, at least one filter can be
coupled to the manifold assembly so that the first aperture fluidly
connects the filter to the first cavity.
Inventors: |
Fuller; Ralph; (Conroe,
TX) ; Mickan; Mark; (Hockley, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Porous Media Corporation |
St. Paul |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
44971594 |
Appl. No.: |
14/301207 |
Filed: |
June 10, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13114748 |
May 24, 2011 |
8764980 |
|
|
14301207 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
210/238 ;
210/232 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01D 29/52 20130101;
B01D 35/30 20130101; B01D 29/114 20130101; Y10T 29/49826
20150115 |
Class at
Publication: |
210/238 ;
210/232 |
International
Class: |
B01D 35/30 20060101
B01D035/30 |
Claims
1. A filtration system for use in a filter tank, comprising: at
least one outlet manifold, at least a portion of the outlet
manifold configured to be positioned within the filter tank; at
least three interleaved manifold assemblies coupled to the outlet
manifold and positioned substantially adjacent to one another so
that at least one of the three interleaved manifold assemblies
extends outwardly from the outlet manifold in one direction and at
least one of the three interleaved manifold assemblies extends
outwardly from the outlet manifold in a substantially opposite
direction, each of the manifold assemblies including: at least one
first non-linear cavity comprising a plurality of fluidly coupled
regions including: a first region including at least one second
aperture through a portion of the manifold assembly, the at least
one second aperture fluidly connecting the at least one first
non-linear cavity and the outlet manifold; and a second region
angled relative to the first region defining the non-linearity of
the at least one first non-linear cavity; at least one filter
coupled to the manifold assembly so that the at least one first
aperture fluidly connects the at least one filter to the at least
one first non-linear cavity; and wherein the at least one filter
extends generally inwardly towards the first region and the second
region.
2. The filtration system of claim 1, and further comprising a
plurality of first apertures positioned through a portion of each
of the interleaved manifold assemblies.
3. The filtration system of claim 1, and further comprising at
least one support structure coupled to each of the interleaved
manifold assemblies, wherein the at least one support structure is
configured and arranged to receive a portion of the outlet
manifold.
4. The filtration system of claim 1, and further comprising at
least one receiving member coupled to each of the interleaved
manifold assemblies immediately adjacent to the at least one first
aperture.
5. The filtration system of claim 4 and further comprising at least
one mandrel coupled to the at least one receiving member and
adjacent to the at least one first aperture, wherein the at least
one filter is at least partially supported by the at least one
mandrel; and wherein the at least one mandrel is configured and
arranged to be capable of being positioned substantially parallel
to the first region.
6. The filtration system of claim 5, wherein the at least one
mandrel comprises at least one mandrel aperture and a mandrel
cavity, wherein the at least one mandrel aperture and the mandrel
cavity are fluidly connected to the at least one first non-linear
cavity via the at least one first aperture.
7. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein the at least one
filter comprises a handle.
8. The filtration system of claim 1 and further comprising a
coupling member coupled to each of interleaved manifold assemblies
substantially adjacent to the at least one second aperture.
9. A filtration system retrofittable into a filter tank comprising:
at least three substantially adjacently positioned interleaved
manifold assemblies, each manifold assembly coupled to an outlet
manifold and positioned substantially adjacent within the filter
tank so that at least one of the three interleaved manifold
assemblies extends outwardly from the outlet manifold in one
direction and at least one of the three interleaved manifold
assemblies extends outwardly from the outlet manifold in a
substantially opposite direction, and each manifold assembly
including; a first non-linear cavity comprising a plurality of
fluidly coupled regions including; a first region including a
second aperture through a portion of the manifold assembly and a
coupling member coupled to the manifold assembly adjacent to the
second aperture, a second region disposed in a non-linear
orientation relative to the first region, and a third region
including at least one first aperture positioned through a portion
of the manifold assembly and at least one receiving member coupled
to the manifold assembly adjacent to the at least one first
aperture, the third region disposed in a non-linear orientation
relative to the second region so as to at least partially define
the non-linearity of the first non-linear cavity; at least one
filter coupled to the manifold assembly via the receiving member;
wherein the at least one filter is positioned substantially
parallel to the first region.
10. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein the coupling member
is capable of coupling with an outlet manifold positioned within
the filter tank through at least one third aperture, the third
aperture configured and arranged to receive at least a portion of
the coupling member.
11. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein each of the first
aperture, the second aperture, and the third aperture are in fluid
communication with the first non-linear cavity.
12. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein an angle between the
first region and the second region is approximately forty-five
degrees.
13. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein an angle between the
second region and the third region is approximately forty-five
degrees.
14. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein each of the
interleaved manifold assemblies comprises a plurality of first
apertures.
15. The filtration system of claim 9, wherein the at least one
filter is configured and arranged to receive a portion of the at
least one mandrel.
16. A filtration system comprising: at least one outlet manifold
configured to be positioned within a filter tank; at least one
manifold assembly coupled to the at least one outlet manifold and
extending outwardly and generally perpendicular from the outlet
manifold, the at least one manifold assembly including at least one
substantially non-linear cavity comprising a plurality of fluidly
coupled regions, and the fluidly coupled regions comprising at
least a first region including at least one second aperture through
a portion of the manifold assembly; and wherein the at least one
second aperture fluidly connects the at least one first non-linear
cavity and the outlet manifold.
17. The filtration system of claim 16, wherein the non-linear
cavity further comprises a second region coupled to the first
region so as to be substantially non-parallel with the first
region.
18. The filtration system of claim 17, wherein the non-linear
cavity further comprises a third region coupled to the second
region, the third region including at least one first aperture.
19. The filtration system of claim 18, wherein the third region is
coupled to the second region so as to be substantially non-parallel
with at least one of the first region or the second region.
20. The filtration system of claim 16, further comprising a filter
tank.
21. The filtration system of claim 18, wherein the third region
comprises receiving members coupled substantially adjacent to the
at least one first aperture.
22. The filtration system of claim 21, further comprising at least
one mandrel.
23. The filtration system of claim 22, further comprising at least
one filter, the at least one filter configured to be reversibly
fluidly coupled to the at least one of the receiving members by
reversibly coupling to the at least one mandrel.
24. The filtration system of claim 23, wherein at least one of the
receiving members is coupled to the at least one mandrel using a
thread.
25. The filtration system of claim 23, wherein the at least one
filter extends generally inwardly towards the second region.
26. The filtration system of claim 25, wherein the at least one
filter extends generally inwardly towards the first region.
27. The filtration system of claim 21, wherein the at least one
mandrel comprises at least one mandrel aperture and a mandrel
cavity; and wherein the at least one mandrel aperture and the
mandrel cavity are fluidly connected to the at least one
substantially non-linear cavity via the at least one first
aperture.
28. The filtration system of claim 16, wherein the at least one
manifold assembly includes a plurality of interleaved manifold
assemblies interleavedly coupled to the outlet manifold.
29. The filtration system of claim 28, wherein at least one of the
interleaved manifold assemblies extends outwardly from the outlet
manifold in one direction and at least one further manifold
assembly extends outwardly from the outlet manifold in a
substantially opposite direction.
30. A filtration system comprising: a filter tank; at least one
outlet manifold configured to be positioned within the filter tank;
at least one manifold assembly coupled to the outlet manifold and
extending outwardly and generally perpendicular from the outlet
manifold, the at least one manifold assembly including at least one
substantially non-linear cavity comprising a plurality of fluidly
coupled regions, and the fluidly coupled regions comprising at
least a first region including at least one second aperture through
a portion of the manifold assembly fluidly connecting the at least
one first non-linear cavity and the outlet manifold; and at least
one filter configured to be reversibly fluidly coupled to at least
a portion of the at least one manifold assembly.
31. The filtration system of claim 30, wherein the non-linear
cavity further comprises a second region coupled to the first
region so as to be substantially non-parallel with the first
region.
32. The filtration system of claim 31, wherein the non-linear
cavity further comprises a third region coupled to the second
region, the third region including at least one first aperture.
33. The filtration system of claim 32, wherein the third region is
coupled to the second region so as to be substantially non-parallel
with at least one of the first region or the second region.
34. The filtration system of claim 30, wherein the at least one
manifold assembly includes at least one receiving member
35. The filtration system of claim 34, wherein the at least one
filter is configured to be reversibly coupled to the at least one
receiving member using a coupled mandrel.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 13/114,748, entitled "Filtration System and
Method", by Ralph Fuller et al. filed on May 24, 2011, which claims
priority from Provisional Application No. 61/347,742, filed on May
24, 2010, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Different industries use filtration systems to reduce levels
of contaminants in a fluid, a liquid, a gas, and/or other
substances. Some filtration methods include passing a substance to
be filtered through a porous medium such as a cloth, paper, sieve,
filter, organic materials, etc. As the substance passes over and/or
through the porous medium, at least a portion of the contaminants
can be separated from the substance. In some filtration systems,
pressure can be applied to the substance to be filtered to urge or
direct the substance through the porous medium.
SUMMARY
[0003] Some embodiments of the invention provide a filtration
system comprising a filter tank. In some embodiments, at least
portions of an inlet pipe and an outlet manifold can be positioned
within the filter tank. In some embodiments, at least one manifold
assembly can be coupled to the outlet manifold and also can be
positioned within the filter tank. In some embodiments, the
manifold assembly can include at least one first aperture, at least
one second aperture, and at least one first cavity positioned
within the manifold assembly. In some embodiments, the second
aperture can fluidly connect the first cavity and the outlet
manifold. Also, at least one filter can be coupled to the manifold
assembly so that the first aperture fluidly connects the filter to
the first cavity.
[0004] Some embodiments of the invention provide a filtration
system comprising a filter tank. In some embodiments, at least
portions of an inlet pipe and an outlet manifold can be positioned
within the filter tank. In some embodiments, a manifold assembly
can be coupled to the outlet manifold and positioned within the
filter tank. In some embodiments, the manifold assembly can include
first cavity, a first region, a second region, and a third region.
For example, in some embodiments, the first region can include a
second aperture and a coupling member. In some embodiments, the
second region can be angled relative to the first region. In some
embodiments, the third region can comprise a first aperture and a
receiving member. In some embodiments, at least one filter can be
coupled to the manifold assembly via the receiving member.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a leaf filtration system
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0006] FIG. 2A is a side view of one embodiment of a manifold
assembly.
[0007] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the manifold assembly
of FIG. 2A along line A-A.
[0008] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a coupling member
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0009] FIG. 3A is a front view of a receiving member according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the receiving member
along line A-A.
[0011] FIG. 4 is a perspective view an interior portion of a filter
tank according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of mandrels according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 6 is a side view of a leaf filtration system according
to one embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a chart detailing data results on experiments on a
leaf filtration system according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0015] FIG. 8 is a chart detailing data results on experiments on a
leaf filtration system according to one embodiment of the
invention.
[0016] FIG. 9A is a side view of a manifold assembly, a plurality
of mandrels, and a plurality of filters according to one embodiment
of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 9B is an expanded view of the region of FIG. 9A within
line "B".
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in
detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in
its application to the details of construction and the arrangement
of components set forth in the following description or illustrated
in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other
embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in
various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and
terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and
should not be regarded as limiting. The use of "including,"
"comprising," or "having" and variations thereof herein is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as
well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise,
the terms "mounted," "connected," "supported," and "coupled" and
variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and
indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further,
"connected" and "coupled" are not restricted to physical or
mechanical connections or couplings.
[0019] The following discussion is presented to enable a person
skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the invention.
Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be
readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic
principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and
applications without departing from embodiments of the invention.
Thus, embodiments of the invention are not intended to be limited
to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope
consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The
following detailed description is to be read with reference to the
figures, in which like elements in different figures have like
reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to
scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit
the scope of embodiments of the invention. Skilled artisans will
recognize the examples provided herein have many useful
alternatives that fall within the scope of embodiments of the
invention.
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a leaf filter system 10 according to one
embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, the leaf filter
system 10 can generally include a filter tank 12, an inlet pipe 14,
an outlet manifold 16, and at least one manifold assembly 18
coupled to the outlet manifold 16, as shown in FIG. 4. In some
embodiments, the inlet pipe 14 and the outlet manifold 16 can
fluidly connect the filter tank 12 with a remote reservoirs and/or
sources of a fluid (e.g., any substance capable of being filtered).
For example, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the inlet
pipe 14 and the outlet manifold 16 can be positioned within the
filter tank 12. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the system
10 can comprise a plurality of manifold assemblies 18 positioned
substantially within an interior of the filter tank 12. Although
future references to the manifold assemblies 18 are plural, a
single manifold assembly 18 also can be used with the system 10. In
some embodiments, a plurality of filters 20 can be coupled to at
least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18. In some embodiments,
the system 10 can be positioned in a vertical orientation, and in
other embodiments, the system 10 also can be positioned in other
orientations, such as, but not limited to horizontal, angled, or
other configurations. Additionally, in some embodiments, the filter
tank 12 can be configured and arranged to open and close so that
users and/or manufacturers can access the interior portion of the
tank 12. Also, in some embodiments, when closed, the filter tank 12
can be substantially sealed so that a substance to be filtered can
enter and exit the filter tank 12 through the inlet pipe 14 and the
outlet manifold 16, respectively.
[0021] According to some embodiments of the invention, the manifold
assemblies 18 can comprise different materials. For example, in
some embodiments, the manifold assemblies 18 can comprise stainless
steel. In other embodiments, the manifold assemblies 18 can
comprise other materials such as plastics, other metals, and/or
composites, or other materials capable of withstanding the
environment inside of the filter tank 12.
[0022] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, in some embodiments, each of the
manifold assemblies 18 can comprise a body 22. In some embodiments,
a first cavity 24 can be positioned within the body 22. For
example, in some embodiments, the first cavity 24 can comprise a
substantial portion of an interior of the body 22. In other
embodiments, the first cavity 24 can comprise other portions of the
body 22. Moreover, in some embodiments, the first cavity 22 can be
substantially defined by walls of the body 22 so that the manifold
assemblies 18 are substantially hollow. In some embodiments, the
manifold assemblies 18 can be formed so that the body 22 is a
substantially unitary structure through methods such as molding,
forging, casting, etc. In other embodiments, the walls of the body
22 can be coupled together through methods such as welding,
brazing, use of conventional fasteners and/or adhesives, and other
coupling techniques.
[0023] In some embodiments, each of the manifold assemblies 18 can
comprise at least one first aperture 26. In some embodiments, each
of the manifold assemblies 18 can comprise a plurality of first
apertures 26. In some embodiments, the first apertures 26 can be
positioned through a portion of the manifold assembly 18 (e.g., a
wall of the manifold assembly 18). In some embodiments, the first
apertures 26 can fluidly connect the first cavity 24 with an
internal environment of the filter tank 12. In some embodiments,
each of the manifold assemblies 18 can comprise five first
apertures 26. In other embodiments, the manifold assemblies 18 can
comprise other numbers of first apertures 26. In yet other
embodiments, at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 can
comprise different numbers of first apertures 26 (e.g., some
manifold assemblies 18 include five first apertures 26 and some
manifold assemblies 18 include more or less than five first
apertures 26).
[0024] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, in some embodiments of the
invention, the system 10 can comprise at least one mandrel 28. In
other embodiments, the system can comprise a plurality of mandrels
28. By way of example only, in some embodiments, the system 10 can
comprise approximately the same number of mandrels 28 as first
apertures 26. In some embodiments, the mandrels 28 can comprise a
substantially cylindrical and/or tube-shaped structure, as shown in
FIG. 5. In other embodiments, the mandrels 28 can comprise other
shapes such as rectangular, regular or irregular polygonal, or
other shapes. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the
mandrels 28 can comprise multiple mandrel subunits coupled together
to form the mandrels 28. In other embodiments, at least a portion
of the mandrels 28 can be substantially a single structure.
[0025] In some embodiments, the first apertures 26 can be
configured and arranged to receive a portion of the mandrels 28.
For example, in some embodiments, receiving members 30 can be
coupled to the manifold assembly 18 substantially adjacent to at
least a portion of the first apertures 26 so that the receiving
members 30 can at least partially retain the mandrels 28 adjacent
to the first apertures 26, as shown in FIGS. 2A-3B. In some
embodiments, the receiving members 30 can comprise a shape similar
to that of the mandrels 28. In other embodiments, the receiving
members 30 can comprise shapes substantially different than the
shapes of the mandrels 28. In some embodiments, the receiving
member 30 and the mandrels 28 can each comprise a threaded surface
so that the two can be coupled together. In other embodiments, the
mandrels 28 can be coupled to the receiving members 30 in other
manners, including adhesives, conventional fasteners, welding,
brazing, friction fitting, etc. In some embodiments, the receiving
members 30 can be coupled to the manifold assemblies 18 and the
mandrels 28 so that a fluid-tight coupling is formed. For example,
as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B, in some embodiments, at least a
portion of the mandrels 28 can comprise at least one o-ring 31
configured and arranged to engage the receiving member 30 to
substantially seal the coupling.
[0026] In some embodiments, the receiving members 30 and the
manifold assemblies 18 can be fabricated so that the two elements
are substantially integral. Additionally, in some embodiments, the
mandrels 28 can be coupled directly to the manifold assemblies 18
so that the system 10 can substantially function without the
receiving members 30. Moreover, in some embodiments, the mandrels
28 can be coupled to the receiving members 30 and/or the manifold
assemblies 18 so that a substantially fluid-tight seal is
formed.
[0027] In some embodiments, each of the mandrels 28 can comprise a
mandrel cavity 32. For example, in some embodiments, the mandrels
28 can be substantially hollow so that the mandrel cavity 32
comprises a substantial interior portion of each of the mandrels
28. In some embodiments, each of the mandrels 28 can comprise an
open end 34 and a closed end 36. In some embodiments, the open end
34 and the closed end 36 can substantially oppose each other. In
some embodiments, when coupled to the manifold assemblies 18, the
open end 34 of each of the mandrels 28 can be immediately adjacent
to the first aperture 24 and the closed end 36 can be distal to the
first apertures 26. As a result, in some embodiments, when coupled
to the manifold assemblies 18, each of the mandrel cavities 32 can
be in fluid communication with the first cavity 24 of the manifold
assembly 18 to which the mandrel 28 is coupled via the open end 34.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the closed end 36 of at least a
portion of the mandrels 28 can be substantially permanently closed
or sealed via a structure that is either permanently coupled to, or
integral with the mandrels 28 to form the closed end 36. In some
embodiments, the closed end 36 can be reversibly sealed (e.g., the
mandrel 28 can comprise a structure such as a plug or a cap to
reversibly seal the closed end 36). Additionally, in some
embodiments, the mandrel 28 can comprise two open ends 34 and can
function without a closed end 36.
[0028] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the mandrels 28
can comprise at least one mandrel aperture 38, as shown in FIG. 5.
In some embodiments, some of the mandrels 28 can comprise a
plurality of mandrel apertures 38. In some embodiments, the mandrel
apertures 38 can comprise a substantially uniform size and shape.
In other embodiments, the mandrel apertures 38 can comprise
non-uniform sizes and shapes (e.g., different sized apertures
and/or different shaped apertures). For example, in some
embodiments, the mandrel apertures 38 can be positioned through a
portion of the mandrels 28 so that the mandrel cavity 32 of at
least a portion of the mandrels 28 can be in fluid communication
with the environment of the filter tank 12. Accordingly, in some
embodiments, a fluid can flow through the mandrel apertures 38 and
into the mandrel cavities 32, through the first apertures 26, and
then into the first cavities 24.
[0029] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the mandrels 28
can be used to couple the filters 20 to the manifold assemblies 18.
In some embodiments of the invention, the filters 20 can be mounted
over the mandrels 28. In some embodiments, the filters 20 can be
reversibly coupled to the system 10. For example, in some
embodiments, the filters 20 can be configured and arranged to move
on and off of the mandrels 28 in order to remove and replace spent
filters. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one end of the
filters 20 can comprise a handle 40 to aid in removal and
replacement of filters 20. In some embodiments, substantially
coreless and/or hollow filters 20 can be configured and arranged to
receive at least a portion of the mandrels 28 so that the filters
20 can be at least partially supported by the mandrels 28. In some
embodiments, one or more of the filters 20 can comprise a core or
other support structure within or outside media with the filter 20.
In some embodiments, the support structures can perform some or all
of the functions of the mandrels 28. In some embodiments, the
filters 20 can be at least partially porous and/or permeable so at
least a portion of a particulate can be separated from a substance
to be filtered as it passes through the filters 20. In some
embodiments, different filter configurations can be chosen for
different applications (e.g., a desire to remove finer and/or
smaller particulate can result in selection of a filter 20
comprising a configuration to remove the finer and/or smaller
particulate).
[0030] As shown in FIG. 6, in some embodiments, the filters 20 can
be coupled to the receiving members 30, the mandrels 28, and/or the
manifold assemblies 18. In some embodiments, the filters 20 can be
coupled via threading, friction fitting, adhesives, conventional
fasteners, etc. In some embodiments, the coupling can be
substantially fluid tight so that no substantial amounts of a fluid
can pass through the coupling. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9A
and 9B, at least a portion of the filters 20 can comprise an o-ring
37 configured and arranged to substantially seal the coupling
between at least a portion of the filters 20 and the receiving
members 30, the mandrels 28, and/or the manifold assemblies 18. In
some embodiments, the filters 20 can comprise cartridge filters,
which can be directly coupled to the manifold assemblies 18 and/or
the receiving members 30 so that system 10 can function without the
mandrels 28. Although, in some embodiments, both mandrels 28 and
cartridge-type filters can be employed.
[0031] Moreover, in some embodiments, regardless of the
configuration of the filters 20, the filters 20 can be in fluid
communication with the first cavity 24. For example, in some
embodiments, after at least a portion of the substance to be
filtered flows through the filters 20, it can pass through mandrel
apertures 38 of the mandrels 28 onto which the filters 20 are
positioned. In some embodiments, after passing through some of the
mandrel apertures 38, the substance can enter the mandrel cavities
32 and flow through the open ends 34 and the first apertures 26 and
enter the first cavities 24. In other embodiments substantially
lacking mandrels 28, the substance can flow through the filters 20
and enter the first cavities 24 via the first apertures 26.
Additionally, in some embodiments, because the coupling between the
filters 20 and the manifold assemblies 18, mandrels 28, and/or
receiving members 30 is substantially fluid tight, any substance
entering the first cavities 24 has passed through the filters
24.
[0032] Referring to FIGS. 2A-2C, in some embodiments of the
invention, at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 can
include at least one second aperture 42. In some embodiments, the
second aperture 42 can be positioned through a portion of the
manifold assembly 18. In some embodiments, the second aperture 42
can be substantially adjacent to the first apertures 26. In other
embodiments, the second aperture 42 can be substantially distal
relative to the first apertures 26. In some embodiments, the second
aperture 42 of at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 can
be in fluid communication with the first cavity 24.
[0033] In some embodiments, at least one coupling member 44 can be
coupled to at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 so that
it is immediately adjacent to the second aperture 42. In some
embodiments, the manifold assembly 18 can comprise substantially
the same number of second apertures 42 and coupling members 44. In
some embodiments, at least a portion of the coupling members 44 can
comprise a substantially hollow structure so that an internal
portion of the coupling member 44 is in fluid communication with
the second aperture 42 and the first cavity 24 (e.g., some of the
coupling members 44 can comprise a substantially collar-like
configuration).
[0034] Further, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the
coupling members 44 can, at least partially, aid in coupling
together at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 to the
outlet manifold 16. In some embodiments, the outlet manifold 16 can
comprise a plurality of third apertures 46. In some embodiments, at
least a portion of the third apertures 46 can be configured and
arranged to receive a portion of the coupling members 44. By way of
example only, in some embodiments, the third apertures 46 can
comprise a perimeter substantially similar to an outer perimeter of
the coupling members 44. As a result, in some embodiments, the
coupling members 44 can be coupled to the third apertures 46 and
the outlet manifold 16 via friction fitting. In some embodiments,
the coupling members 44 can be coupled to the third apertures 46
and the outlet manifold 16 via welding, brazing, conventional
fasteners, adhesives, and other coupling methods. For example, in
some embodiments, at least a portion of the coupling members 44 and
the third apertures 46 can comprise threading configured and
arranged to engage each other to couple these elements together.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the coupling members 44 can be
coupled to the outlet manifold 16 so that the no substantial
amounts of fluid or other substances can enter the outlet manifold
16 other than via the second apertures 42.
[0035] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the manifold
assemblies 18 can comprise at least one support structure 48. In
some embodiments, the support structure 48 can be coupled to at
least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 adjacent to the
second apertures 42 and/or the coupling member 44. In some
embodiments, the support structure 48 can be coupled to the
manifold assemblies 18 via welding, brazing, use of conventional
fastener, adhesives, etc. In some embodiments, the support
structure 48 can be configured and arranged to receive a portion of
the outlet manifold 16. For example, in some embodiments, the
support structure 48 can be configured and arranged so that when
the coupling member 44 is coupled to the outlet manifold 16, the
support structure 48 can surround a portion of an outer perimeter
of the outlet manifold 16. In some embodiments, after positioning
the manifold assemblies 18 relative to the outlet manifold 16, the
support structure 48 can receive and/or circumscribe at least a
portion of the outlet manifold 16. For example, in some
embodiments, the support structure 48, after positioned on the
outlet manifold 16, can be coupled to the outlet manifold to
further support the manifold assembly 18. In some embodiments, the
support structure 48 can be coupled to the outlet manifold 16 via
welding, brazing, conventional fasteners, adhesives, etc.
[0036] As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, in some embodiments of the
invention, at least a portion of the manifold assemblies 18 can
comprise at least three regions. In some embodiments, a first
region 50 can be positioned so that it is substantially
perpendicular to a horizontal axis of the outlet manifold 16 and
can be more adjacent to the outlet manifold 16 relative to the
remainder of the manifold assembly 18. In some embodiments, the
first region 50 can comprise some elements of the manifold assembly
18. For example, in some embodiments, the first region 50 can
comprise the support structure 48, the second aperture 48, and the
coupling member 44. In some embodiments, the first region 50 of the
manifold assembly 18 can be oriented in a substantially
longitudinal direction, although, in other embodiments, the first
region 50 can be oriented in other directions, as desired by the
manufacturer and/or the end user.
[0037] In some embodiments, the manifold assembly 18 can comprise a
second region 52. In some embodiments, the second region 52 can
extend from the first region 50 and can be angled relative to the
first region 50. For example, in some embodiments, the angle
between the first region 50 and the second region 52 can be
approximately forty-five degrees. In other embodiments, the second
region 52 can be oriented at other angles (e.g., 30, 60, or 90
degrees) relative to the first region 50.
[0038] In some embodiments, the manifold assembly 18 can comprise a
third region 54. In some embodiments, the third region 54 can
extend from the second region 52. In some embodiments, the third
region 54 can include some of the elements of the manifold assembly
18. For example, in some embodiments, the third region 54 of the
manifold assembly 18 can comprise the first apertures 24 and the
receiving members 30. Additionally, in some embodiments, the third
region 54 can be angled relative to the second region 52. For
example, in some embodiments of the invention, the third region 54
can be angled approximately forty-five degrees relative to the
second region 52. In other embodiments, the third region 54 can be
oriented at other angles (e.g., 30, 60, or 90 degrees) relative to
the second region 52. Additionally, in some embodiments, because of
the angled second region 52, the third region 54 can be positioned
approximately ninety degrees relative to the first region 50 (i.e.,
substantially perpendicular).
[0039] In some embodiments of the invention, the size and angle of
the regions 50-54 can aid in system 10 retrofitting. By way of
example only, in some embodiments, the size of the regions (e.g.,
length, width, etc.) and the angle of the regions 50-54 relative to
each other can be varied to accommodate differently configured and
arranged conventional filter systems. Additionally, in some
embodiments, at least partially dependent upon the application
selected, the angles can be selected to impart superior flow
characteristics to the manifold assemblies 18 relative to other
filtration systems.
[0040] In some embodiments, each of the regions 50-54 can comprise
individual structures coupled together to form the manifold
assemblies 18. For example, in some embodiments, the first region
50, the second region 52, and the third region 54 can comprise
substantially separate structures that are coupled together in the
previously mentioned orientation and using any of the previously
mentioned coupling techniques. Additionally, in some embodiments,
by employing three subunits later assembled to form one manifold
assembly 18, the regions 50-54 can be more easily manufactured and
transported. In some embodiments, each of the regions 50-54 can be
regions of a substantially integrally formed structure (e.g., each
of the regions of the manifold assembly is a portion of single,
unitary structure).
[0041] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, according to some embodiments of
the invention, the system 10 can be used to filter a fluid. In some
embodiments, the fluid can be a liquid, a gas, a mist, or other
substances requiring filtration. For example, in some embodiments,
the substance to be filtered can comprise a slurry (e.g., a liquid
comprising suspended particulate of uniform and/or various sizes).
Although future references are to "the fluid," this term includes
any substances that can require filtration. In some embodiments,
the fluid can be pressurized. For example, in some embodiments, the
fluid can originate from a storage tank (not shown) or other
source, whether remote or a part of the system 10. In some
embodiments, the fluid, which can be pressurized, can enter the
filter tank 12 via the inlet pipe 14, which can fluidly connect the
interior of the filter tank 12 with the source of the fluid. In
some embodiments, the pressure can at least partially urge, direct,
and/or force at least a portion of the fluid to flow through the
filters 20 and the remainder of the system 10. In some embodiments,
as previously mentioned, as the fluid flows through the filters 20,
at least a portion of the particulate, debris, contaminants, waste,
or other materials suspended within the fluid can be separated from
the fluid so that the fluid becomes a filtrate. Moreover, because
of the substantially fluid-tight couplings, the filtrate flows
through the first apertures 26 and enters the first cavities 24. In
some embodiments, because the first cavities 24 are in fluid
communication with the second apertures 42 and the filtrate is
pressurized, at least a portion of the filtrate can flow from the
first cavities 24 through the second apertures 42 and into the
outlet manifold 16. In some embodiments, once in the outlet
manifold 16, the filtrate can be directed to flow to a filtrate
reservoir or other destinations for use in chosen application.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise a
plurality of filter tanks 12 each including manifold assemblies 18
so that the fluid can pass through several stages of filtration
(e.g., the filter tanks 12 can comprise a "daisy-chain"
configuration).
[0042] In some embodiments, the system 10 can be employed in
different applications. As a result, in some embodiments, system 10
can comprise different size, shapes, configurations, densities,
properties, and/or dimensions of the manifold assemblies 18, the
mandrels 28, and/or the filters 20 to filter a given fluid at a
given rate and/or to remove certain substances from the fluid. By
way of example only, in some embodiments, the system 10 can
comprise a plurality of differently configured filters 20, which
can separate different sized particles while within one filter tank
12. Moreover, in some embodiments, different numbers of manifold
assemblies 18, first apertures 26, and or filters 20 can be used to
impart a modular property upon the system 10 (i.e., the system 10
can be easily adaptable to different filtration needs).
[0043] In some embodiments, by employing the system 10, including
the manifold assemblies 18 and the filters 20, filtration can be
simplified and undesirable processes and by-products can be
avoided. By way of example only, some conventional leaf filter
systems can employ diatomaceous earth in the filtering process. The
diatomaceous earth can substantially function as a filter media so
that as the fluid to be filtered flows over, around, and/or through
the diatomaceous earth, at least a portion of the undesired
particulate can be removed. Although the diatomaceous earth can
function as a filtration substrate, its use can substantially
increase costs associated with conventional leaf filter systems.
The diatomaceous earth of some conventional leaf filter systems can
include silica, which can pose health concerns for those who work
with it. In some conventional leaf filter systems, after the
diatomaceous earth is substantially spent (e.g., saturated with
filtered matter), it must be removed from the conventional system
and disposed of in a proper manner, which can create a significant
cost point for conventional systems because of the high costs of
used diatomaceous earth disposal. Also, at times, the diatomaceous
earth could pass through the filters of conventional leaf filter
systems, which could contaminate downstream applications.
[0044] Additionally, in order to employ diatomaceous earth in a
conventional leaf filter system, the diatomaceous earth should form
a "cake." For example, the diatomaceous earth should be positioned
so that at least a portion of the substance to be filtered flows
over the cake to filter the substance. However, to keep the cake in
place, some conventional leaf filter system must always circulate a
fluid or other substance through the cake to keep it properly
positioned. Accordingly, if the fluid is not circulating through
the cake, the cake can dry and its structural integrity can be
comprised so that it would have to be replaced. For example, if a
power outage occurs and fluid cannot be circulated through the
conventional leaf filter system, the cake could be destroyed, which
could lead to a decrease in leaf filter productivity and increased
manual labor in reapplying diatomaceous earth to the conventional
system.
[0045] According to some embodiments of the invention, the system
10 does not include diatomaceous earth or analogous filtration
aids. As a result, at least some of the drawbacks associated with
diatomaceous earth can be avoided. For example, in some
embodiments, the system 10 can provide for the ability to stop and
start flow of fluids to be filtered without concern for whether a
diatomaceous earth cake would be disrupted. Additionally, in some
embodiments, the operating costs and the costs of disposal can be
reduced by not including diatomaceous earth. Moreover, in some
embodiments, the volumes of waste produced by the filtration can be
reduced in the system 10 because no spent diatomaceous earth is
created by the filtration process. In some embodiments, less labor
can be necessary to maintain the system 10 relative to conventional
systems. For example, the handles 40 can increase simplicity in
filter 20 removal and replacement relative to conventional systems
that can require diatomaceous earth removal and replacement.
[0046] In some embodiments, the system 10 can comprise other
advantages over conventional leaf filter systems. For example, in
some embodiments, because of the pressure, the fluid can be forced
to flow through the filters 20. In some embodiments, at least a
portion of the filters 20 can have a lower flow rate per filter
relative to conventional leaf filter systems because conventional
leaf filters can use a smaller number of larger-sized filters. As a
result, the lower flow rate per filter can lead to enhanced
filtration.
Examples
[0047] The following examples and experimental results are included
to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete
disclosure and description of particular manners in which some
embodiments of the present invention can be practiced and
evaluated, and are not intended to limit the scope of the
invention.
[0048] This example illustrates an embodiment of the leaf
filtration system 10. In order to determine the effectiveness of
the system 10 relative to conventional leaf filters, the fluid to
be filtered was fed through both a conventional leaf filter
(labeled "Filter Leaf" in data tables) and a leaf filter system
(labeled "pilot" in the data tables) under substantially similar
experimental conditions (e.g., flow rate, system pressure,
differential pressure, period of use, etc.).
[0049] In order to determine impact of the system 10 on filtration
relative to conventional leaf filter systems, the concentration of
the fluid's contaminants was measured before and after passing
through the filtration systems. Additionally, experimental samples
were taken over the course of several days to more accurately
determine the impact of the system 10. In order to determine the
concentration of contaminants present in the different conditions,
a fixed volume of liquid was passed through an analytical membrane.
The membrane was rinsed, dried, and weighed to assess the mass of
the contaminants in the fluid sample. As discussed below, the
filtration loop including the system 10 exhibited improved
filtration relative to conventional leaf filters.
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, some embodiments of the system 10
were able to produce a filtrate with a lesser concentration of
contaminants compared to conventional leaf filters. For example, as
shown in FIG. 7, after five days of filtration through both the
system 10 and conventional filters, both filtration systems removed
a significant proportion of the contaminants. On average, the
system 10 removed 97.8% of the contaminants, whereas the
conventional leaf filtration system removed 90.1% of the
contaminants. However, when directly compared, the system 10
removed 76% more contaminants compared to the conventional leaf
filtration system.
[0051] The second experiment further supports theses results. As
shown in FIG. 8, after four days of filtration through both the
system 10 and conventional filters, once again, both systems
removed a significant proportion of the contaminants. On average,
the system 10 removed 95.7% of the contaminants, whereas the
conventional leaf filter system removed 86.3%. When directly
compared, however, the system 10 removed 70% more contaminants
compared to the conventional leaf filter system.
[0052] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
while the invention has been described above in connection with
particular embodiments and examples, the invention is not
necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments,
examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments,
examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims
attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and
publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each
such patent or publication were individually incorporated by
reference herein. Various features and advantages of the invention
are set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *