Aftertreatment Sleeve Captive Ring Retention Mechanism

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aftertreatment systems for reducing emissions in combustion processes face challenges in efficiently retaining and replacing aftertreatment bricks, particularly due to complex retention mechanisms that complicate access and maintenance.

Innovation Solution

The use of a sleeve with a captive ring and retention ring system allows for easy insertion and retention of aftertreatment bricks, providing a secure yet accessible mechanism for their placement within the aftertreatment module, enabling efficient sealing and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a bar with bolt-and-nut combination and anchor is used to retain the catalyst, then the catalyst is securely retained in place, but the removal process becomes complex and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatalyst retention securityVSAvoidcatalyst removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The retention system is divided into separate functional components: a bar for positioning, a clamp for securing, and a quick-release mechanism for easy removal. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling simple disassembly for catalyst replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retention system transitions from a static bolt-and-nut combination to a dynamic quick-release mechanism that can rapidly change from a secured state to a removed state. This dynamic capability allows the system to provide secure retention during operation while enabling rapid catalyst replacement when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the bar is anchored at the bottom and fastened with bolts at the upper portion, then the catalyst is securely positioned, but the different orientations of fastening components complicate removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecatalyst positioning accuracyVSAvoidfastening mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring function and fastening function are merged into a single integrated clamp mechanism. This unified design eliminates the need for separate anchors and bolts in different orientations, reducing the overall complexity of the fastening system while maintaining secure catalyst positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp mechanism serves multiple functions: it positions the bar, secures the catalyst, and provides a quick-release capability. This multi-functionality replaces the need for multiple specialized components (anchors, bolts, nuts) with a single versatile retention device.

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

Data Source

PatentUS9050559B2System and method for accommodating aftertreatment bricks
Publication Date: 2015.06.09 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9050559B2 patent drawing
  • US9050559B2 patent drawing
  • US9050559B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An aftertreatment system and method treats exhaust gasses produced by an internal combustion process or a similar process. The aftertreatment system includes an aftertreatment module having a sleeve extending between a first end and a second end. One or more aftertreatment bricks are axially inserted into a sleeve opening disposed in the first end of the sleeve. To prevent the aftertreatment bricks from unintentionally exiting the sleeve, a captive ring is disposed around the first end of the sleeve as a loose fitting collar. The captive ring is restrained on the sleeve by a circumferential bead protruding about the first end. The captive ring can couple with a retention ring placed adjacent the first end. When coupled to the captive ring, a portion of the retention ring extends partially across and blocks the sleeve opening, preventing the aftertreatment brick from exiting the sleeve.