Bayonet Locking Mechanism for Oil Filter Element

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional oil filters for engines are cumbersome and time-consuming to disassemble for filter cartridge replacement due to complex locking mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

A circumferential locking mechanism on the filter element allows for quick and secure attachment to the filter housing using a combined rotational and pushing motion, leveraging the existing bypass valve spring for counter-force, eliminating the need for invasive actions and additional components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional clips are used to lock the filter cartridge in the filter casing, then the filter cartridge is securely locked, but the disassembly process becomes time-consuming and cumbersome requiring screwdrivers to push on the clips through the filter material

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure lockingVSAvoiddisassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The locking mechanism transitions from static clips requiring manual manipulation to a dynamic bayonet connection that locks and unlocks through rotational motion. The bayonet connection allows the filter element to be quickly removed by rotating it out of the locking position, eliminating the need for tools and reducing disassembly time while maintaining secure locking during operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct locking and unlocking positions through the bayonet connection design. The filter element can be clearly distinguished between locked (operational) and unlocked (replacement) states through its rotational positioning, making the status obvious and simplifying the replacement process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Stability of the object's composition

If traditional clips are used to lock the filter cartridge, then the filter cartridge remains fixed, but the removal process requires invasive actions with tools

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixed positionVSAvoidremoval simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The bayonet connection provides a dynamic locking system that is stable during rotation for locking but easily reversible for removal. The filter element is secured firmly when locked but can be quickly removed by rotating it to the unlocked position, eliminating the need for invasive tool-based removal actions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The bayonet connection is designed to be self-operating for both locking and unlocking. The filter element itself performs the locking action during installation by rotating into place, and the removal is achieved by simply rotating the filter element out, without requiring external tools or invasive actions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If a bayonet connection is used between filter housing cover and filter device, then the connection is faster to assemble, but the structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly speedVSAvoidconnection structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bayonet connection serves multiple functions: it provides secure locking, enables quick release, and indicates operational status through its rotational position. By consolidating these functions into a single connection mechanism, the overall device complexity is managed while achieving fast assembly and replacement

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

Data Source

PatentEP3643386B1Improved oil filter
Publication Date: 2024.02.21 VOLVO CAR CORP
  • EP3643386B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3643386B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3643386B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The present invention relates to a filter element for an oil filter, configured to be releasably lockable in a filter housing comprising a circumferential locking mechanism. The invention further relates to a corresponding filter housing for accommodating the filter element.