Cabin Air Filter Shield for Debris-Free Motor Conduit Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cabin air filters dislodge dust and debris during removal, which can reduce the efficiency and operating characteristics of the air filter motor by allowing contaminants to enter the conduit leading to the motor.
Innovation Solution
A planar body with an integrated handle is used to slide under the air filter, blocking debris from entering the motor conduit during removal and installation, and can be electrostatically charged to attract dust.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the air filter is removed directly from the housing, then the filter can be easily accessed and replaced, but dust and debris dislodge during removal and enter the motor conduit, reducing motor efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
A removable planar body is introduced as an intermediary component between the air filter and the motor conduit. This planar body is inserted into the housing first, creating a barrier that prevents dust and debris from the filter from entering the motor conduit during filter removal. The filter is then removed and installed on top of this planar body, allowing easy access and replacement while maintaining protection against contaminants.
2Reliability
If the planar body is inserted to block debris, then motor protection is improved, but an additional component is introduced into the system
Solution Approach 1:
The housing interior is segmented into functional zones using the removable planar body. This planar body creates a distinct separation between the filter replacement area and the motor conduit area, allowing independent access to the filter while maintaining protection for the motor. The segmented design enables the planar body to be removed when not needed, maintaining system simplicity.
3Reliability
If the filter is held in place with a locking door, then the filter remains secure during operation, but the filter cannot be easily removed and replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking door is opened and the filter is accessed through a pre-established access point in the housing. The removable planar body is inserted beforehand to create a protected workspace, and the filter is removed through this predetermined access path. This preliminary preparation allows the filter to be securely locked during operation while enabling easy removal and replacement through the established access mechanism.
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
Prevents dust and debris from entering the air filter motor, maintaining the efficiency and proper operation of the air conditioning system by keeping contaminants out of the motor conduit.
Implementation Method 1
can be electrostatically charged to attract dust
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for preventing debris or dust from entering a motor used to pass cabin air in a vehicle has a housing having a first conduit opening to a surface of the housing and a second conduit opening to another surface of the housing, an air filter received within the interior of the housing and positioned between the first and second conduits, and a body removably received in the interior of the housing. The body is interposed between the air filter and the surface of the housing and overlies an opening of the first conduit so as to block debris or dust from entering the motor. The air filter is adapted to filter air from the second conduit as the air is drawn through the air filter by the motor. A handle is integrated with or affixed to the body so as to extend outwardly of the housing.