Bi-stable Diaphragm Torque Indicator for Oil Filters

Solution Overview

Problem

There is a lack of reliable methods to ensure the correct torque is applied when securing oil filters or other components, as over-tightening can damage the sealing ring, while under-tightening may lead to leaks and engine damage, and existing torque wrenches require calibration and proper use.

Innovation Solution

A bi-stable surface with material elasticity that emits a sound or vibration when a predetermined torque is applied, utilizing snap-through buckling to indicate proper installation without the need for specialized tools.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If torque wrenches are used to ensure correct torque application, then installation precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to calibration requirements and proper use knowledge

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque application precisionVSAvoidtool complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The oil filter housing itself serves as the torque indicator device through its bi-stable diaphragm mechanism. The housing automatically indicates when proper torque is applied through audible click sounds and visual position changes, eliminating the need for external torque wrenches and calibration procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical torque measurement systems (torque wrenches requiring calibration) with a simple mechanical indicator system built into the filter housing. The bi-stable diaphragm provides direct mechanical feedback through position changes and acoustic signals when predetermined torque is reached.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If torque wrenches are used to ensure correct torque application, then installation precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to calibration and proper use requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque application precisionVSAvoidinstallation ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The oil filter housing itself serves as the torque indicator device through its bi-stable diaphragm mechanism. The housing automatically indicates when proper torque is applied through audible click sounds and visual position changes, eliminating the need for external torque wrenches and calibration procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent incorporates visual indicators (such as color-coded markings or position indicators) that change appearance when the diaphragm transitions between stable states, providing immediate visual feedback to the installer that proper torque has been achieved.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

3Device complexity

If no torque indication mechanism is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to uncertainty in torque application

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation system complexityVSAvoidinstallation reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The bi-stable diaphragm provides immediate feedback to the installer through audible click sounds and visual position changes when predetermined torque is reached. This feedback mechanism ensures reliable torque application by allowing the installer to know when to stop tightening, preventing both under-tightening and over-tightening.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The oil filter housing itself serves as the torque indicator device through its bi-stable diaphragm mechanism. The housing automatically indicates when proper torque is applied through audible click sounds and visual position changes, eliminating the need for external torque wrenches and calibration procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

Ensures consistent torque application without the need for torque wrenches, providing a tangible indication of proper securement, reducing the risk of damage and leaks, and simplifying installation in tight or confined spaces.

Implementation Method 1

The mechanism by which the surface emitting the indication is referred to as snap-through buckling. This is a phenomenon that occurs on loading of a panel, when the panel resistance suddenly decreases with increasing imposed deflection.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSnap-through buckling:

Implementation Method 2

A diaphragm, or other surface, which has material elasticity and bi-stability

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMaterial elasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS9815008B2Elastic component providing indication of proper installation

Publication Date: 2017.11.14 DV IND LLC

AI summary

An apparatus having a bottom assembly with a fitting for interfacing to connect the bottom assembly to a second structure, having an elastic element that, when sufficient force is applied via the process of mating the bottom assembly to the second structure, and at an appropriate pressure value, passes from a first stable position, through a threshold, and to a second position, creating a tactile or audible indication that the apparatus has been properly installed.