Adaptor Plug for Universal Spin-On Filter Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an easy and comfortable way to connect spin-on fluid filters with different hydraulic devices, as existing solutions do not provide a universal and flexible method for various hydraulic device configurations and spaces.

Innovation Solution

The proposed adaptor plug system includes a plug-in end that fits into a hydraulic device's flange cavity in a fluid-tight manner and a filter end that connects to a spin-on filter, with internal fluid channels for efficient fluid flow, allowing the filter to be screwed onto a threaded tube or bolt, and optionally includes a ring adaptor for sensor integration.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a spin-on filter is directly connected to a hydraulic device flange, then the connection is simple and space-saving, but the adaptability to different hydraulic device configurations is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different hydraulic device configurationsVSAvoidconnection structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The adaptor plug serves as an intermediary component between the hydraulic device flange and the spin-on filter. It includes a plug-in end with external threading that connects to the flange cavity, and a filter end with internal threading that connects to the filter. This intermediary structure enables universal adaptation to different hydraulic device configurations while maintaining simple connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The adaptor plug is designed with universal applicability to connect spin-on filters to various hydraulic device flanges with different cavity configurations. The standardized external threading on the plug-in end allows it to interface with multiple flange types, while the internal threading at the filter end accommodates standard spin-on filters, achieving multi-functionality.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If a universal adaptor plug is introduced to connect filters to different devices, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuniversal connection capabilityVSAvoidadditional components
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is segmented into three distinct components: the hydraulic device flange, the adaptor plug, and the spin-on filter. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system adaptability. The adaptor plug as a separate segment provides the universal connection interface without complicating the other components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Productivity

If internal fluid channels are integrated into the adaptor plug, then fluid flow efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid flow efficiencyVSAvoidadaptor plug manufacturing
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The adaptor plug merges multiple functions into a single component: mechanical connection (external and internal threading), fluid sealing (sealing surfaces), and fluid flow guidance (internal fluid channels). This integration improves fluid flow efficiency by providing dedicated internal channels while consolidating manufacturing into one part, though it does increase manufacturing complexity compared to a simple through-hole design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution enables flexible and universal connection of spin-on filters to various hydraulic devices, ensuring fluid-tight sealing and allowing for the use of sensors, while maintaining ease of installation and removal, thus addressing the challenge of adapting to different device configurations and spaces.

Implementation Method 1

the adaptor plug comprises a plug-in end which is designed to be plugged into a cavity in a flange of a hydraulic device in a fluid tight manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSealing:

Implementation Method 2

at least one internal fluid channel connecting said plug-in end with said filter end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluid flow through channels:

Implementation Method 3

the adaptor plug at its filter end comprises a threaded tube or bolt on which the spin-on filter can be screwed

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreading:

Data Source

PatentUS11491427B2Adaptor plug for a spin-on filter
Publication Date: 2022.11.08 DPC HYDRAULICS SRL
  • US11491427B2 patent drawing
  • US11491427B2 patent drawing
  • US11491427B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An adaptor plug for a spin-on fluid filter, in particular for a spin-on return filter, wherein the adaptor plug comprises a plug-in end which is designed to be plugged into a cavity in a flange of a hydraulic device in a fluid tight manner and a filter end which is designed to be connected to the spin-on filter in a fluid tight, detachable manner and at least one internal fluid channel connecting said plug-in end with said filter end, wherein the adaptor plug at its filter end comprises a threaded tube or bolt on which the spin-on filter can be screwed. By this design, the use of a filter set with or without an adaptor ring between the adaptor plug and the filter is enabled. By the adaptor plug, the spin-on filter can be applied to a variety of hydraulic devices, among others, with a ¾ 16 UNF cavity.