Air Cleaner Filter Cartridge Assembly With Axial Latching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing air cleaner and crankcase ventilation filter assemblies require access to the circumferential portion of the housing for installation and removal of filter cartridges, which can be cumbersome in tight spaces and inefficient.

Innovation Solution

A push-push mechanism and rotatable cap connection system allow for axial installation and removal of filter cartridges without requiring access to the circumferential portion of the housing, utilizing a first connection arrangement with a deflectable latch arm and a second connection arrangement with a rotatable cap for secure attachment and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If circumferential access is required for filter cartridge installation and removal, then secure attachment is achieved, but operational footprint increases and serviceability deteriorates in tight spaces

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveserviceabilityVSAvoidoperational footprint

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The connection system is divided into two independent arrangements: a first connection arrangement at one end of the filter cartridge and a second connection arrangement at the opposite end. This segmentation allows each connection point to be accessed independently, enabling installation and removal from limited spaces without requiring circumferential access to the housing.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from circumferential (radial) access requirements to axial access by positioning connection arrangements at the ends of the filter cartridge along its longitudinal axis. This dimensional change allows service personnel to install or remove cartridges by accessing only the axial direction, significantly reducing the operational footprint required in tight engine compartments.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Productivity

If circumferential access is required for filter cartridge installation and removal, then secure attachment is achieved, but installation time increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidserviceability

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If axial push-push mechanism is used for connection, then operational footprint is reduced, but connection complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational footprintVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The deflectable latch arm automatically engages with the catch when the filter cartridge is inserted axially, and automatically disengages when axial force is applied in the opposite direction. This self-actuating mechanism eliminates the need for manual manipulation, rotation, or additional tools, reducing operational complexity despite the innovative connection geometry.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The latch arm is designed to be deflectable rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically adapt to insertion forces and automatically engage or disengage based on the direction and magnitude of applied axial force. This dynamic behavior simplifies operation while maintaining secure connection during normal use.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Ease of operation

If axial push-push mechanism is used for connection, then serviceability improves, but connection strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveserviceabilityVSAvoidconnection strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS12447430B2Assemblies; components and filter features thereof; and, methods of use and assembly

Publication Date: 2025.10.21 DONALDSON CO INC

AI summary

An air cleaner assembly is disclosed, along with related methods. In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly has a housing including a housing body and a removable cover that together define an interior volume for holding a filter cartridge. The housing can include a first part of a first connection arrangement. The air filter cartridge can include a second part of the first connection arrangement. In one aspect, the first and second parts can be secured together place the air filter cartridge in a latched position by moving the air filter cartridge in a first direction. In one aspect, the first and second parts can be disconnected from each other to place the air filter cartridge in an unlatched position by moving the air filter cartridge in the first direction. The air cleaner assembly can include a second connection arrangement securing the air filter cartridge to the housing cover such that the housing body and housing cover are secured together.