JP5721731B2 - Filter proximity nozzle - Google Patents

Description

Related Application This application is filed with PCT Application No. 1 filed on Nov. 12, 2009. PCT / IB2009 / 008061 priority benefit, US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 260,856 filed November 13, 2009, US Patent Act 119 (e) benefit, and September 2010 No. 61 / 380,385, filed on the same day, claims the benefit of US Patent Act 119 (e), the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention, in some embodiments, relates to a self-cleaning filtration system, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a nozzle assembly used for cleaning a filtration screen.

  More than 80% of the world trade volume is still shipped. In the absence of cargo, ballast water is required for compensation. There are currently significant environmental threats from the use of ballast water. Indigenous microorganisms, sediments, plants, and animals are drawn into the ballast water, transported to other parts of the world, and then discharged into an unknown environment. In response, the International Maritime Organization has introduced a mandatory standard for automatic filters in ballast water treatment systems on all new and modified ships.

  Cleaning screens used for the filtration of water and especially seawater is difficult. The smaller the pore size of the filter (usually less than 100 microns), the more difficult it is to remove the trapped suspension that has accumulated and embedded in the filter screen. Organic matter tends to stick to the filter screen, making removal particularly difficult.

Some examples of attempts to increase the efficiency of filter screen cleaning include the following:
A nozzle fixed to the suction pipe collector at a preset distance from the filter screen without the ability to approach and leave the filter screen.

  WO 2006/008729 states: “The nozzle 34 comprises a nozzle tube 44 and a nozzle cap 46 with an annular rim 47. The tubular base 40 is closed by a cover 48. The nozzle tube 44 is An axially movable expansion joint is formed in the tubular base 40 by an annular guide 50 and an opening in the cover 48. A cylindrical spring 42 extends the nozzle tube 44 axially toward the inlet surface of the mesh 20. Will be energized ”. Furthermore, "expansion joints and springs 42 are protected from harmful particles by two sealing rings 52 and 54".

  EP 1785178 discloses that “the nozzle 230 moves along the guide 210 or at least along the upper portion 212 while extending towards the interior of the fine filter 40”. Further, “During the backwash operation, fluid flows through the final filtration chamber 30 toward the space defined in the nozzle 240. This flow causes the outer edge 242 of the nozzle 240 to push away from the fine filter 40. While the inner edge is pressed towards the fine filter, the area of the inner edge 244 of the nozzle 240 is larger than the area of the outer edge 242, so that the overall effect of fluid flow is that the nozzle 240 faces the inner surface of the fine filter 40. "It is pressed."

In aspects of some embodiments of the invention,
A tube connected distally to a pressure sink;
A nozzle,
An elastic element connecting the nozzle to the proximal side of the tube;
A deformable housing that bridges the gap between the proximal side of the tube and the nozzle;
A suction nozzle assembly is provided. Optionally, the housing includes an elastic tube. Optionally or alternatively, the housing includes a bellows, which also serves as the elastic element. Optionally, the bellows is formed from stainless steel.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the housing is deformable to extend in a direction perpendicular to the flow in the nozzle.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, an assembly is formed in one or both of the nozzle and the housing and provides at least one leveling that provides fluid communication between the gap and the outside of the nozzle assembly. Includes pressure holes. Optionally, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is formed in the nozzle. Optionally or alternatively, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is formed in the housing. Optionally or alternatively, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing holes is in a portion of the nozzle having a protrusion on the inside of the nozzle assembly and in a plane perpendicular to the flow in the nozzle. Located adjacent to each other. Optionally or alternatively, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is configured to prevent and / or reduce deformation of the housing by the pressure sink. Optionally or alternatively, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing holes is configured to prevent and / or reduce pressure drop in the housing due to the pressure sink. Optionally or alternatively, at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is configured to prevent and / or reduce retraction of the nozzle by the pressure sink. Optionally or alternatively, the at least one pressure equalizing hole reduces the pressure difference between the gap and the outside by at least 50%. Optionally or alternatively, the at least one pressure equalizing hole has a total cross-sectional area between 60 mm ² and 800 mm ² in total. Optionally or alternatively, the nozzle is configured to have a cross-sectional flow rate of at least 8 meters per second. Optionally or alternatively, the at least one pressure equalizing hole includes a plurality of holes arranged at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction of the nozzle.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nozzle is a low friction nozzle.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the gap includes an axial gap. Optionally or alternatively, the gap includes a radial gap.

In some embodiments of the invention,
A filter layer;
The assembly described in this document;
A movement actuator configured to move the nozzle assembly over at least 50% of the surface of the layer;
With
A filtration system is provided wherein the assembly is configured to maintain a clearance of no more than 5 mm from the filter throughout the movement of the at least 50% of the surface. Optionally, the resilient element advances the nozzle out of the tube with a force between 100 grams and 800 grams. Optionally, the force is maintained over a range of pressure differences of at least 2 bar between the inside of the tube and the outside of the tube.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the assembly includes at least one pressure sink coupled to the gap and configured to equalize the pressure between the gap and the outside of the nozzle assembly. Including.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pressure sink includes an outlet to the environment.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a method of causing a nozzle connected to a pressure sink with a gap to approach a filter comprising:
Resiliently biasing the nozzle toward the filter;
Allowing sufficient fluid flow between the outside of the nozzle and the gap to reduce retraction of the nozzle by the pressure sink;
A method comprising: Optionally, the resiliently biasing step includes resiliently biasing using a bellows that also bridges the gap. Optionally or alternatively, the step of allowing sufficient flow includes allowing sufficient flow of one or more pressure equalization channels of the nozzle.

In some embodiments of the invention,
A tube connected proximally to the pressure sink;
A nozzle,
A deformable housing that bridges the gap between the distal side of the tube and the nozzle, connects the nozzle to the distal side of the tube, and allows tilting movement of the nozzle relative to the tube Body,
A suction nozzle assembly is provided.

  Unless defined otherwise, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

  Several embodiments of the invention are merely illustrated herein and described with reference to the accompanying drawings. With particular reference to the drawings in particular, it is emphasized that the details shown are only intended to illustrate the embodiments of the invention by way of example. In this regard, the manner in which embodiments of the present invention are implemented will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the description given with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a filtration system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a sectional view of the cleaning head according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning head according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning head according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the bellows according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for cleaning a cleaning head while continuing to contact the filtration screen with low force during a cleaning cycle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning head that contacts the filtration screen with low force according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  The present invention, in some embodiments, relates to a self-cleaning filtration system, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a nozzle assembly used for cleaning a filtration screen.

  An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to bringing a nozzle connected to a pressure sink close to a filtration screen in the presence of a flow from the screen through the nozzle. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nozzle is pressed against the screen with low force. Optionally, the force is provided by a sealed and / or enclosed elastic element. Optionally, as the nozzle moves relative to the pressure sink, the enclosure and / or element deforms rather than sliding and / or in addition to sliding. Optionally, the movement is axial. Optionally or alternatively, the movement includes a tilt.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, nozzle retraction would directly and / or indirectly reduce and / or prevent the pressure differential associated with the nozzle without it. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pressure differential between the enclosure and the volume outside the nozzle is reduced and / or prevented. Optionally, such a reduction reduces the axial contraction (and possibly the retraction of the nozzle) of the enclosure. Optionally or alternatively, the pressure difference between the axial front and rear of the nozzle is reduced and / or prevented. Optionally, such a reduction prevents direct retraction of the nozzle. Optionally or alternatively, one or more gaps in the nozzle assembly that transmit a pressure differential from the pressure sink to other parts of the assembly are shorted using a pressure equalizing element.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, pressure equalization is provided by one or more holes formed in the nozzle and / or enclosure.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nozzle is connected to a pressure sink and protected by an enclosure with a gap formed therebetween. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the gap allows free movement of the nozzle, perhaps even in the presence of deposits and / or other jackets and / or obstacles. Optionally, the enclosure reduces certain jackets and / or debris from clogging and / or otherwise interfering with the nozzle assembly mechanism.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the gap between any movable parts, for example, the gap between the sliding part and / or the separating part is at least 0.5 mm, at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, or other smaller? , Intermediate or larger gaps.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pressure equalizing body keeps the applied force substantially the same even when the strength of the suction force caused by the pressure sink varies. Optionally, by using a low force over a range of distances such as 1-5 mm, for example 2-3 mm, the nozzle will have various irregularities in the shape of the filtration screen without causing its deformation. Can be adapted.

  An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to a nozzle assembly that includes the ability to tilt the nozzle to better fit the surface of the filtration screen. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the nozzle is attached to a pressure sink, such as a tube, by an inclined sleeve, optionally a deformable sleeve. Optionally or alternatively, the nozzle is biased away from the sink and / or towards the screen by a resilient element such as a spring.

  An aspect of some embodiments of the invention relates to equalizing the pressure on both sides of the bellows and allowing the bellows force to push the nozzle toward the screen.

  Before describing at least one embodiment of the present invention in detail, the present invention is applied in its application to the components and / or methods shown in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or examples. It should be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited to the details of assembly and construction. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

Overview of Filtration System To better understand some embodiments of the present invention shown in FIGS. 2-7 of the drawings, the filtration system shown in FIG. 1 can first be used with the exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Reference is made to 102 examples.

  Raw water (for example, seawater) flows into the inlet chamber 3 through the raw water inlet 1. The water is then directed to the filtration chamber 4 and then passes through the filtration screen 26. The filter screen 26 removes suspended particles from the water and the suspended particles are then retained. The filtered water flows out through the filtered water outlet 2 and from there continues downstream to the rest of the system.

  The accumulation of solids on the filter screen 26 forms a “cake” of soil, which gradually reduces the pressure differential across the screen. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, local backflow in the filtration screen 26 is used to remove this cake.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the backflow is applied based on a determination of reduced filtration effect. Optionally or alternatively, the backflow is applied continuously and / or periodically. In one embodiment, the pressure difference switch 20 monitors the pressure difference between the raw water inlet 1 and the filtrate outlet 2. When this pressure falls below a predetermined threshold, a signal is sent to the system controller to trigger a cleaning cycle. As described, the filter screen 26 may be cleaned periodically. Optionally or alternatively, the cleaning cycle can be manually activated by an operator.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cleaning cycle includes applying backflow to one or more portions of the filtration screen 26. Optionally, the cleaning cycle includes traversing the entire filter screen 26, or at least 30%, 50%, 70%, or an intermediate percentage thereof.

  In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the traversal includes motor driven movement of the cleaning head 70 on the filtration screen 26. Other movement sources, such as manual movement, can also be provided. In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cleaning head 70 moves, but optionally the filtration screen 26 moves in the same way and / or instead.

  In one embodiment, the cleaning cycle is initiated when the system controller activates a drive means such as gear motor 6, which in turn rotates the suction pipe collector 21 and the attached cleaning head 70. The motion can be performed in a spiral so as to eventually cover at least more than 50% of the surface area of the filter screen 26. At the same time, the flush valve 7 is opened to a low pressure sink such as the atmosphere and / or another part of the system. The pressure differential causes a back flow of filtered water through the filter screen 26. The back flow of filtered water removes the trapped solids from the filtration screen 26 into the cleaning head 70 and optionally through the suction pipe collector 21 that drains the cleaning chamber 5 and / or the cleaning valve 7.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cleaning process takes about 30 seconds. Optionally, the time can be increased automatically if the cleaning has not been performed to a satisfactory level, for example determined by the pressure differential switch 20.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cleaning method requires the use of a small amount of water. Optionally, the method of cleaning is such that cleaning of the bulk accumulation of filter screen 26 continues for an extended period of time until filter screen 26 is sufficiently clean and / or whenever the filter is operating. A continuous cleaning mode can be set.

  In many embodiments of the present invention, more efficient cleaning occurs when the flow through the clogged filtration screen 26 is restricted. Such a situation may occur when the cleaning head 70 is in contact with the filtration screen 26 during a cleaning cycle. When the cleaning head 70 is located a distance from the filtration screen 26, there is a flow of water from between the filtration screen 26 and the cleaning head 70, which is the water available to clean the filtration screen 26. Reduce the amount and / or suction force.

The size of the filtration chamber 4 can depend on the size of the filtration screen 26 and / or is optionally adjusted to reflect the flow rate. Exemplary non-limiting flow rates are about 1 m ³ / h, about 10 m ³ / h, about 100 m ³ / h, about 1000 m ³ / h, about 5000 m ³ / h, about 8000 m ³ / h, about 10000 m ³ / h. Or other smaller, intermediate or larger flow rates.

  In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the filter screen 26 is constructed from a four layer stainless steel mesh that is sintered together. The structure of the filtration screen 26 is optionally selected to withstand potentially high pressure differences, such as at least 5 bar, at least 10 bar, at least 15 bar, or intermediate numerical pressure differences. Although the wire mesh design of the filter screen 26 can hold a higher rate of suspension in some of its embodiments, it can be more difficult to clean.

Potential Advantages Note that some embodiments of the present invention support relative movement between the cleaning head 70 and the filtration screen 26 and can accommodate screen distortion due to pressure differences.

  In some embodiments, the power requirements of the filtration system 102 are reduced. Optionally, power requirements are reduced due to the increased amount of debris removed from the filter screen 26 per cleaning cycle, thereby reducing the frequency of cleaning cycles required. Optionally, the system has a low operating energy requirement of about 0.1 HP, about 0.5 HP, about 1 HP, or other smaller, intermediate or larger energy requirements.

  In some embodiments, the use of an elastic force to advance the cleaning head nozzle toward the screen allows the cleaning head to be actuated in any orientation.

  In some embodiments, the filtration system 102 is installed horizontally and / or in other orientations. Optionally, the system supports installation in a range of angles and / or in various orientations, eg both horizontal and / or vertical.

  As used herein, the term proximal and / or proximal direction refers to the position in the direction of the filtration screen 26 and / or movement toward it, respectively. As used herein, the term distal and / or distal direction refers to movement away from and / or away from the filtration screen 26, respectively.

  Some embodiments of the present invention have the potential advantage over the use of a spring inside a sealed chamber, pressing the nozzle on the telescoping fitting toward the filter screen 26. During the cleaning cycle, the operating pressure across the filter screen 26 is constantly changing, such as occurs when one region of the filter screen has a small amount of debris and / or another region has a thick layer of debris. To do. The spring must overcome as high an operating pressure as possible so that the nozzle can always be pressed against the filtration screen. As a practical result, the nozzle simply presses the filter screen 26 with a higher force than is necessary to contact the filter screen 26. Excessive force causes frictional wear and / or tearing.

  Some embodiments of the present invention also have potential advantages by choosing not to use a sealed chamber to prevent dirt from sticking to expansion joints and / or springs. Thus, high wear and / or tear due to friction caused by moving the expansion joint and / or spring over the seal can be reduced and / or avoided. Optionally or alternatively, having no sliding seal avoids accumulation in the seal that would otherwise impede correct operation.

  The described embodiments of the present invention can potentially require less expensive and / or less frequent maintenance and / or repair.

Exemplary Embodiment Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 2 illustrates a spring tension of about 100 grams / mm, about 150 grams / mm, about 200 grams / mm, such that the nozzle contacts the filter screen with low frictional force, Or other embodiments of a cleaning head 70 that can provide a smaller, intermediate, or greater spring tension to bring the nozzle closer to the surface of the filter screen 26. For example, the contact force can be between 10 and 500 grams, such as between 50 and 300 grams, or between 100 and 200 grams. As shown, the proximity nozzle 23 is connected to the tube 22 by a bellows 24. Optionally, the bellows 24 includes a plurality of ridges 51 that allow it to expand and / or contract. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the bellows 24 is configured (eg, length, position, and / or elasticity) to bias the proximity nozzle 23 toward the filtration screen 26. The bellows 23 is optionally adapted to such movements when a reverse movement of the proximity nozzle 23 is required.

  During operation (e.g., during a cleaning cycle), the suction tube collector 21 is optionally connected to a pressure sink, thereby creating a suction force 103 within the tube 21 and / or inside the proximity nozzle 73. A potential problem with such a suction force 103 is that the proximity nozzle 23 may be retracted, for example because the proximal side of the proximity nozzle 23 experiences a higher pressure than its distal side. Optionally or alternatively, the suction force 103 can reduce the pressure inside the bellows 24, causing it to contract and / or possibly retract the proximity nozzle 23. It is noted that some embodiments of the present invention include large gaps that can transmit such suction forces to various portions of the cleaning head to prevent or avoid upsizing. Also, resistance to nozzle retraction, as well as suction force, cleaning head excursion from the filter screen, and / or clogging, can be over time (intra-cycle and / or between cycles) and / or system It is also noted that it can change between.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one or more pressure equalizing bodies 42 are used to reduce and / or neutralize the retraction effect of the suction force 103 on the proximity nozzle 23 and / or bellows 24. Optionally, pressure equalization is effected by fluid communication between the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23 and / or the bellows inner side 56 and / or the outer side 105. The outer side 105 can be close to the surface of the filtration screen 26. Optionally, neutralization of the suction force 103 with respect to the proximity nozzle 23 prevents distal movement of the proximity nozzle 23. Optionally, neutralization of the suction force 103 on the bellows 24 maintains the bellows 24 in an expanded shape (or re-expansion if equalization is adjusted) and / or closes the nozzle 23 to the filter screen 26. It is possible to press towards.

  Optionally, re-expansion is accomplished by the spring-like action of bellows 24. Optionally, the bellows 24 is proximally or distally relative to its initial position so as to press the proximity nozzle 23 into contact with the filtration screen 26 but with a low force to reduce friction. For example, −3 mm, −2 mm, −1 mm, 0 mm, +1 mm, +3 mm, +5 mm, or other smaller, intermediate or larger distances relative to the initial position.

  Optionally, the bellows 24 can be adjusted manually and / or automatically. Optionally, the bellows 24 can be adjusted using adjustment screws, adjustment washers, and / or adjustment nuts, and / or other tubing and / or tension adjustment means known in the art, for example. . Optionally, the length of the tube 22 can be adjusted similarly and / or instead.

  Optionally, the tube 22 can have a constriction 76.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the pressure equalizing body 42 is an optionally valved channel. Optionally or alternatively, the pressure equalizing body 42 is an active element such as a motorized valve and / or pump.

  In exemplary embodiments of the invention, the flow velocity through the proximity nozzle 23 is at least 10 meters / second, at least 8 meters / second, at least 2 meters / second, at least 4 meters / second, at least 6 meters / second, or other Smaller, medium or larger flow rates.

  A potential advantage of the described sul embodiment is that movement of the proximity nozzle 23 between the proximity nozzle 23 and the filtration screen 26 is substantially independent of changes in the suction force 103 and / or if necessary. It is possible to provide a low frictional force. A potential benefit of low frictional forces is low maintenance and / or repair requirements. A potential advantage of using bellows 24 instead of springs and / or expansion joints is that cleaning head 70 does not occlude due to the accumulation of small particles. Another potential advantage of the cleaning head 70 is that it does not have a seal that is subject to frictional wear and / or tearing.

  Another potential advantage of some embodiments is that maintenance can be facilitated and / or achieved by a single person without special tools and / or lifting equipment. Optionally, or alternatively, the proximity nozzle 23 and / or bellows 24 can be removed as an integral part and / or a separate part, thus facilitating maintenance. Optionally, or alternatively, maintenance is facilitated because the cleaning head 70 does not occlude due to the accumulation of small particles. Optionally or alternatively, maintenance is facilitated due to low frictional forces and low wear and / or tears. Optionally or alternatively, maintenance is facilitated because the frequency of the cleaning cycle required by the filtration system 102 is reduced.

Alternative Embodiment FIG. 3 shows another embodiment of the cleaning head 70 showing a hole used as a pressure equalizing body. Also shown are pipe fitting options between pipes and / or nozzles. Such features can also be used in other embodiments described herein.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the pressure equalizing body 42 is optionally embodied as a channel, for example, as an L-shaped channel 41. In an alternative embodiment, the channels are straight and / or inclined with respect to the flow axis of the proximity nozzle 23.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the outer end of the hole 43 can be located on the outer periphery 60 of the proximity nozzle 23. The inner end of the bore 44 may be located on the inner rim 63 and / or in fluid communication with the bellows inner side 56 and / or the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23.

  As described above, the pressure equalizing body 42 can neutralize the suction force 103 for the bellows 24 and / or the suction force 103 for the proximity nozzle 23. Optionally, the pressure equalizing body 42 equalizes the pressure in the bellows inner 56 and / or gap 74 by the outer 105 by providing fluid communication. The outer side 105 can be located proximate to the filtration screen 26. Optionally or alternatively, the outer 105 is located at a distance of 0 mm, 0.2 mm, 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, or other smaller, intermediate or larger distances from the filtration screen 26. In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, four holes 41 are provided. Alternatively, other numbers of holes are provided, for example 2, 3, 5, 6, or other smaller, intermediate or larger numbers. Optionally, the holes 41 are arranged at equal intervals on the outer periphery 60. Optionally, the holes are arranged so that they cannot all be occluded simultaneously by a single debris piece. Optionally, the hole can remove the blockage by achieving an increase in forward (not reverse) pressure within the tube 21. Optionally, such occlusion removal is accomplished periodically and / or manually and / or automatically.

In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the surface area of the outer end of hole 43 is in the range of about 1 mm ² to about 10 mm ² , for example in the range of 2 mm ² to 5 mm ² . The surface area of the inner end of the hole 44 is in the range of about 1 mm ² to about 10 mm ² , for example in the range of 2 mm ² to 5 mm ² . Optionally, the holes have a substantially uniform cross-sectional area. The total cross-sectional area of the surface area of the outer end of the hole 43 ranges between 0.1% and 20% of the area of the proximity nozzle opening 45, for example 5% to 15%, for example 2% to 5%. The total cross-sectional area of the holes 43 is between about 60 mm ² and about 800 mm ² , for example in the range of 200 mm ² to 500 mm ² .

  In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the cleaning head 70 includes an optional proximity nozzle insert 31 that is attached to the tube 22 and / or guides the movement of the proximity nozzle 23. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the proximity nozzle insert 31 has a wide end 91 that includes a flange attached to the tube 22 and optionally attached thereto and / or prevented from moving backwardly therewith. Including. Optionally, the outer diameter of end 91 coincides with the inner diameter and is flush with inner surface 92 of tube 22. Optionally, the tube has a non-circular cross-section and can facilitate interlocking of the insert 31 and the tube 22.

  In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the narrow neck having a reduced diameter 93 of the insert 31 has a diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the main lumen 61 of the proximal nozzle 23. Optionally, contact is flush and friction is reduced by appropriate selection of material (eg, proximity nozzle 23 and / or insert 31 is formed, for example, from Tecpack or Teflon).

  In some designs, a space 46 may exist between the small diameter portion of the proximity nozzle insert 93 and the inside of the proximity nozzle 61. Optionally, proximity nozzle insert 31 separates bellows inner side 56, gap 74, and / or hole 41 from water backflow 90. A potential advantage of the separation is to help equalize the pressure by the pressure equalizing body 42 and / or neutralize the suction force 103 at the bellows 24 and / or the proximity nozzle 23. The proximity nozzle insert 31 can provide a reduction in the surface area of the proximity nozzle opening 45. By reducing the surface area of the proximity nozzle opening 45, the suction force 103 directed to the filtration screen 26 can be improved, and as a result, the cleaning cycle can be made more efficient. The surface of the lumen 61 of the proximity nozzle 23 can freely slide on the small-diameter portion 93, allowing the proximity nozzle 23 to move. Exemplary dimensions of the diameter of the proximity nozzle opening 45 can be 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger diameters. Exemplary dimensions of the diameter of the outer periphery 60 of the proximity nozzle 23 may be 10 mm, 25 mm, 32 mm, 35 mm, or other smaller, intermediate or larger diameters. The proximity nozzle insert 31 can be formed from a durable material that provides a low frictional force, such as Techpack or Teflon.

  The proximity nozzle 23 can be annular in shape and / or can be provided with a rounded edge 62. Optionally, the proximity nozzle 23 is formed from a durable material, such as Techpack or Teflon, which also reduces the frictional force on the filter screen 26.

  The proximity nozzle 23 can be connected to the bellows 24 using various connection schemes, for example, using a split pin (not shown) and / or other methods. Additional alternative connection methods include gluing, welding, and / or pinning. The total cross-sectional diameter of the proximity nozzle opening 45 is 0.1% to 20%, or such as in the range of 5% to 15%, such as 2% to 5%, or smaller or larger relative to the surface area of the filtration screen 26. It can be a relative size. Typically, having a small cross-sectional area concentrates the backflow water 90, resulting in high flow rates, high pressures, and / or resulting suspension and / or particularly organic suspension filtration screens 26. Results in a high removal rate. Optionally, the proximity nozzle opening 45 is made sufficiently small in cross section so that the entire area to be cleaned achieves sufficient backflow pressure.

  The bellows 24 can be connected to the tube 22 by a split pin 25 and / or using another connection method, such as gluing and / or welding.

  The major axis of the tube 22 can be substantially perpendicular to the tangent of the cross section of the suction tube collector 21. Exemplary dimensions of the outer diameter of the tube 22 can be 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger diameters. Exemplary dimensions of the inner diameter of the tube 22 can be 10 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, 21 mm, 25 mm, 30 mm, 35 mm, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger diameters. Tube 22 is optionally formed from a durable and / or rigid material, such as stainless steel, steel, and / or plastic.

Alternative Pressure Equalizer Design FIG. 4 shows another embodiment of the cleaning head 70 that illustrates the use of different locations for pressure equalization holes. As shown in the figure, the pressure equalizing body 42 is a hollow space of the bellows 201 (optionally a distance 203 between the bellows and the tube 22, for example, 0.1 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm,. 5 mm, 2.0 mm, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger spacing) and formed by a nozzle hollow space 200 that opens to the outer side 206 through one or more bellows holes 202. can do. Optionally, the bellows 204 is isolated from the space 200 and is optionally provided by its own pressure equalizing body. Optionally, different parts of the nozzle assembly have different pressure equalizers associated therewith.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, one, three, four, five, seven, ten, or other smaller, larger, or intermediate number of bellows holes 202 are provided. Optionally, a portion of bellows 201 is made porous, for example by a fiber and / or mesh coating. Optionally, the holes 202 are arranged to prevent the multiple occlusions. Optionally or alternatively, the holes 202 are arranged along the length and / or circumference of the bellows 201. Optionally or alternatively, the holes 202 are arranged near the location where the bellows 201 is in fluid communication with the backflow 90. In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the holes 202 are arranged so as not to interfere with the nozzle approach function of the bellows 201.

Exemplary Pressure Equalizer Parameters In some exemplary embodiments, the pressure equalizer 42 reduces the pressure difference between the bellows inner 56 and / or the gap 74 and the outer 105 by 100%. Optionally or alternatively, the pressure equalizing body 42 may reduce the pressure difference between the bellows inner side 56 and / or the gap 74 and the outer side 105 in the range of about 100-50%, such as 90%, 80%, Reduce by 70%, 50%, or other smaller, intermediate or larger pressure differentials.

  In some embodiments, the pressure equalizing body 42 can be positioned where the outer periphery 60 of the proximity nozzle 23 can be on a plane perpendicular to the suction force 103.

  In some embodiments, the pressure equalizing body 42 can include a valve, eg, a flap valve.

  In embodiments, the pressure equalizing body 42 may be, for example, a valve, pump, pressure detector, pressure equalizing body, pressure controller, motorized control circuitry, and / or optional arranged to equalize and / or control pressure. Includes a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), including one or more of other devices and / or components.

  In some embodiments, the pressure equalizing body 42 may be in any two and / or more regions such that the suction force 103 of the bellows 24 and / or the suction force 103 of the proximity nozzle 23 is neutralized. It can be configured to equalize the pressure in between.

  In some embodiments, the pressure equalizing body 42 minimizes frictional forces by increasing the size of the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23 and / or by reducing the surface area of the proximity nozzle face 64. A positive pressure gradient can be formed so that the proximity nozzle 23 is placed on the filtration screen 26.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of the bellows 24. The bellows 24 can be composed of a thin tube 50 having a flange 51. The dimensions of the bellows 24 can be, for example, an outer diameter 52 in the range of about 25-50 mm, or 27 mm, 35 mm, 45 mm, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger outer diameter. The inner diameter 53 of the bellows 24 can be about 5 to 8 mm smaller than the outer diameter 52, or 6 mm or 7 mm smaller. The length 54 of the bellows 24 can be in the range of about 30-80 mm, such as 40 mm, 50 mm, 60 mm, or other smaller, intermediate or larger lengths. The number of ridges 51 can range from about 10 to 25, such as 15 or 20 ridges, or other smaller, intermediate or larger numbers. The material thickness 55 can be in the range of about 1 mm to 1.5 mm, for example 1.1 mm, 1.3 mm, or other smaller, intermediate or larger thicknesses.

  Optionally, the dimensions are about 100-800 grams / mm, such as 150 grams / mm, 250 grams / mm, 300 grams / mm, for a spring extension of, for example, between 1 and 5 mm, for example 2-3 mm. A spring tension of 500 grams / mm, or other smaller, medium or larger spring tensions. Optionally, heel 51 provides proximal and / or distal movement. When the space 57 between the flanges 51 is increased uniformly around the outer periphery of the bellows 24, the length 54 of the bellows 24 can be increased. If the space 57 between the ridges 51 is evenly reduced around the outer periphery of the bellows 24, the length 54 can be reduced. Optionally, the bellows 24 can be formed from a stainless steel (SST) material for long life and / or durability.

  In some embodiments, one end of the bellows 24 can be inclined, for example, in any direction, as indicated by directional arrows 81, 82. Inclination can be caused by unevenly increasing the space 57 between the ridges 51 around the periphery. As an example, increasing the space 57 between the flanges 51 at the bottom of the bellows 24 while decreasing the space 57 between the flanges 51 at the top of the bellows 24 has the effect of inclining the proximity nozzle 23 upward according to the direction arrow 81. Can be raised. In another embodiment, the bellows 24 provides a tilting force by the resistance of the filtering screen 26 which is optionally adapted.

  The proximity nozzle 23 can be attached to the end of the bellows 24 in consideration of the inclination of the proximity nozzle 23. A potential advantage of tilting is, for example, a filtration screen that may occur due to excessive local accumulation of waste, if there is a local depression in the filtration screen 26, and / or due to the shape of the filtration screen 26. The proximity nozzle 23 can be adjusted in accordance with the deformation of the surface 26. The ability of the bellows 24 to tilt provides a smooth movement of the proximity nozzle 23 relative to the filtration screen 26, thereby reducing the amount of friction and / or being possible for the filtration screen 26 without applying additional force to the filtration screen 26. As close proximity can be achieved. In the exemplary embodiment of the invention, the proximal nozzle surface 64 can contact the filtration screen 26 at a right angle. Optionally, the proximal nozzle face 64 is oblique to the filtration screen 26 at right angles, eg, −10 degrees, −7 degrees, −5 degrees, −3 degrees, 0 degrees, +3 degrees, +5 degrees, +7 degrees, +10. Contact can be made at degrees, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger angles, for example, 20 degrees or more.

  In some embodiments, the collar 51 can be hollow on the inside and continuous with the inside 56 of the bellows.

  In some embodiments, the ridge 51 is not hollow on the inside, for example, having a foam therein.

  In some embodiments, the bellows 24 with a spring-like function can be replaced with a bellows without a spring-like function, which is provided by an attached and / or embedded spring.

  In some embodiments, the bellows 24 is replaced with any elastic element and / or any deformable housing.

  In some embodiments, the bellows 24 is replaced with a deformable tube (eg, compliant and / or elastic) and / or a spring.

Exemplary Method of Operation FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method for cleaning a cleaning head while keeping it in contact with the filter screen with low force during a cleaning cycle, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The method will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7 is optionally an initial configuration 300 of the position of the cleaning head 70. Optionally, the bellows 24 is adjusted to press the proximity nozzle 23 such that the proximity nozzle 23 contacts the filtration screen 26 with a very low force, the contact force ranging from about 100 grams to about 300 grams. , Eg 150 grams, 250 grams, or other smaller, intermediate or larger forces. Optionally, the force is substantially constant (e.g., the negative flow pressure range in tube 22 is in the range of 1: 2, 1: 4, 1:10, or 2 over other smaller or intermediate pressure ranges). Maintained within the fold).

  At 602, the cleaning head 70 is disposed in an initial configuration 300 shown in FIG. 7, for example.

  At 618, the force applied by the spring-like tension of the bellows 24 optionally presses the proximity nozzle 23 toward the surface of the filtration screen 26.

  At 604, a suction force 103 is generated in the tube 22 due to the connection of the suction tube collector 21 to the pressure sink. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the cleaning valve 7 can be opened so that the suction pipe collector 21 is connected to the atmosphere. Optionally, the suction force 103 can vary in strength during the cleaning cycle and / or can vary in strength between individual cleaning cycles. Optionally, the existing suction force 103 increases the strength.

  At 608, the suction force 103 causes a back flow in the filtration screen 26 to remove debris and / or waste from the filtration screen 26.

  Optionally, as the cleaning head 70 moves along the surface of the filtration screen 26, the cleaning head 70 is repositioned as at 602.

  At 614, as a result of sufficient fluid flow, pressure equalization and / or reduction is optionally achieved between the outer 105 and the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23 and / or the bellows inner 56. . Neutralization of the suction force 103 at the proximity nozzle 23 and / or the suction force 103 at the bellows 24 is optionally achieved by pressure equalization. The suction force 103 creates a negative pressure in the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23 and / or the inner side 56 of the bellows. The pressure differential causes fluid flow from the outer side 105 through the hole in the pressure equalizing body 42 to the gap 74 behind the proximity nozzle 23 and / or the inner side 56 of the bellows. The pressure equalizing body 42 provides sufficient fluid inflow and outflow between the bellows inner side 56 and / or the proximity nozzle inner side 74 and outer side 105, eg 5 liters / hour, 10 liters / hour, 15 liters / hour, or Other smaller, intermediate or larger flow rates can be possible.

  The neutralization of the suction force 103 by the pressure equalizing body 42 described in 614 occurs gradually as the suction force 103 is increased from zero and / or as the suction force 103 fluctuates during the cleaning cycle. Can do. A potential advantage of the pressure equalizing body 42 is that it can cope with the variable suction force 103. Re-expansion of the bellows 24 at step 618 optionally occurs substantially simultaneously with neutralization of the suction force 103 at the proximity nozzle 23 and / or neutralization of the suction force 103 at the bellows 24. In fact, 602, 618, 604, 614 optionally occur almost simultaneously, so that the proximity nozzle 23 cleans the filtration screen 26 while remaining in close contact with the filtration screen 26. In addition, 602, 618, 604, 614, and 608 are optional so that the contact between the proximity nozzle 23 and the filtration screen 26 is largely maintained even if the suction force 103 varies during the cleaning cycle. Operate substantially simultaneously.

  Again with respect to 618, as a result of neutralization of the variable suction force 103, the amount of force required to press the proximity nozzle 23 in the direction of the filtration screen 26 is substantially the same as when there is no suction force 103. It is almost the same as in the initial configuration 300. The resulting configuration is identical to the initial configuration 300, and the bellows 24 is adjusted to press the proximity nozzle 23 until the proximity nozzle 23 can contact the filtration screen 26 with low force. Optionally, the force required to press the proximity nozzle 23 against the filtration screen 26 is between about 0 bar and 25 bar, eg, inside the tube 22 at 3 bar, 5 bar, 10 bar, 15 bar, 23 bar. Over a range of pressure differences between the outer and outer 105, or other smaller, intermediate or larger pressure differences.

  In an embodiment, the initial configuration of the position of the cleaning head 70 can be adjusted so that the bellows 24 presses the proximity nozzle 23 such that the proximity nozzle 23 is within about 0 mm from the filtration screen 26. Optionally, the proximity nozzle 23 can move proximally and / or distally in the range of about −2 mm to about +4 mm relative to the initial configuration 300. Optionally, the negative distal movement of the proximity nozzle 23 can be caused by contraction of the bellows 24. Optionally or alternatively, a negative distal movement of the proximity nozzle 23 may be caused, for example, if the filter screen 26 is deformed, if the movement mechanism is misaligned, and / or if the tube 22 is suddenly filtered. This may occur due to the pressure on the nozzle 23 when pressed against the nozzle 26.

  Optionally, the combination of bellows 24 and pressure equalizing body 42 provides the ability to clean filter screen 26 even under low pressure conditions where the pressure at filter screen 26 is, for example, 1.5 bar or less.

  Optionally, the ability of the filter screen 26 to clean the filter screen 26 even under low pressure conditions results in a reduction in the amount of cleaning water used for cleaning and thus a reduction in the proportion of wasted water.

  Optionally, filtration system 102 has the ability to operate in a continuous cleaning mode.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, during normal operating mode, the filtration system 102 is about 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, or other smaller or intermediate flow rate. A larger proportion is used for cleaning.

  In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, during continuous cleaning mode, the filtration system 102 is about 1%, 5%, 7%, 10%, 13%, or other smaller, intermediate, or larger percentage of the flow rate. Is used for cleaning.

  The function and / or structure of the single cleaning head 70 has been discussed for illustrative purposes only. Multiple heads of the same design and / or different designs can be provided in the filtration system. For example, the number of cleaning heads 70 varies depending on the size and / or application of the filtration system 102. Optionally, other numbers of cleaning heads 70 are provided, such as one, five, ten, fifteen, twenty, or other smaller, intermediate or larger numbers of cleaning heads 70.

  The above description uses ballast water filtration as an example only. The devices described herein can be applied to other applications, such as irrigation systems, salt water desalination systems, and / or water purification systems. Furthermore, the application is not limited to water filtration. The filtration screen 26 used to filter any liquid, such as oil, can be part of a filtration system that can be cleaned using the described embodiments. As an example, a filtration system for filtration of seawater may need to use a corrosion resistant material. As another example, a filtration system for oil filtration can typically use a smaller cleaning head 70.

  During the lifetime of a patent that matures from this application, many related filter screens are expected to be developed, and the scope of the filter screen terminology includes all such new technologies a priori. It is intended to include.

  As used herein, the term “about” refers to ± 10%.

  The terms “comprises, comprising, includings, including”, “having”, and their equivalents mean “including, but not limited to, including”. .

  The term “consisting of” means “including and limited to”.

  The expression “consisting essentially of” only if the additional components, steps and / or parts do not substantially change the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure. Means that the composition, method or structure may comprise additional components, steps and / or moieties.

  As used herein, the singular forms (“a”, “an”, and “the”) include plural references unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or the term “at least one compound” can encompass a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.

  Throughout this disclosure, various aspects of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, descriptions of ranges such as 1-6 are specifically disclosed subranges (eg, 1-3, 1-4, 1-5, 2-4, 2-6, 3-6 etc.), and Should be considered as having individual numerical values (eg, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6) within the range. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

  Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any mentioned numerals (fractional or integer) included in the indicated range. The first indicated number and the second indicated number “the range is / between” and the first indicated number “from” to the second indicated number “to” The expression “range to / from” is used interchangeably and is meant to include the first indicated number, the second indicated number, and all fractions and integers in between.

  It will be appreciated that certain features of the invention described in the context of separate embodiments for clarity may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. On the contrary, the various features of the invention described in a single embodiment for the sake of brevity are provided separately or in suitable subcombinations or as preferred in other described embodiments of the invention. You can also Certain features that are described in the context of various embodiments should not be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless that embodiment is inoperable without those elements. .

  While the invention has been described in terms of specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that there are many alternatives, modifications, and variations. Accordingly, the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims.

  All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein are hereby incorporated in their entirety as if each individual publication, patent and patent application was specifically and individually cited. It is intended to be used. Furthermore, citation or confirmation in this application should not be considered as a confession that it can be used as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not necessarily be construed as limiting.

Claims (13)

A pressure sink,
A nozzle,
An elastic element elastically connecting the nozzle to the pressure sink, wherein the elastic element is sized and arranged to move the nozzle toward a water filtration screen, the elastic element being the pressure sink; A gap is formed between the nozzle and the nozzle, and the pressure sink and the nozzle are connected at a predetermined distance via the elastic element ,
A deformable housing that attaches the nozzle to the pressure sink and bridges a gap between the pressure sink and the nozzle, provided that the housing moves when the nozzle moves relative to the water filtration screen. Sized and arranged to accommodate the gap, and
At least one pressure equalization hole formed in one or both of the nozzle and the housing and providing fluid communication between the gap and the outside of the nozzle assembly;
A suction nozzle assembly for cleaning a water filtration screen. Wherein at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is formed in the nozzle, the suction nozzle assembly of claim 1. Wherein at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole is inside of the nozzle assembly, and is located adjacent to the portion of the nozzle having a projection on a plane perpendicular to the flow within the nozzle, according to claim 1 Or the suction nozzle assembly according to 2 ; Wherein at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole, wherein the and disposed determined dimensioned to prevent and / or reduce deformation of the casing due to pressure sink, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, Suction nozzle assembly. Wherein the at least one of the at least one pressure equalizing hole, wherein the determined dimension to prevent and / or reduce the retraction of the nozzle by the pressure sink and are arranged, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Suction nozzle assembly. 6. Suction according to any of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the housing is dimensioned and arranged so that the tilting movement of the nozzle can be adjusted to the deformation of the surface of the water filtration screen. Nozzle assembly. The deformable housing to maintain said gap, suction nozzle assembly according to any of claims 1-6. The housing includes a bellows, the bellows acts as the elastic element, the suction nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1-7. The gap comprises an axial gap created by the axial movement of the elastic element, the suction nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1-8. Wherein the housing, the are and having disposed dimensioning to deform so as to extend in a direction perpendicular to the flow of the nozzle, the nozzle assembly suction according to any one of claims 1-9. 11. A suction nozzle assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 10 , comprising a tube having a proximal side connected to the pressure sink and a distal side connected to the elastic element. The housing comprises a resilient tube, according to claim 1-7, 9-11 nozzle assembly suction according to any one of. A water filter layer;
A suction nozzle assembly according to any of claims 1 to 12 ,
A movement actuator configured to move the nozzle assembly over at least 50% of the surface of the layer;
With
A water filtration system, wherein the assembly is configured to maintain a gap of 5 mm or less from the filter throughout the movement of the at least 50% of the surface.