Compressible Self-Expanding Filter Element for Compact Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter modules require individually adapted filter elements to fit through small access openings, leading to increased manufacturing effort, potential leaks, and limitations in versatility and ease of installation.
Innovation Solution
A filter module with an elastic filter element that can be compressed to fit through smaller access openings, expanding to fill larger receiving spaces without additional elements, and featuring a strap for easy removal and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple individually adapted filter elements are used to fill the receiving chamber, then the filter elements can be inserted through the access opening, but the manufacturing effort and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is divided into a frame element and a filter medium that can be separately manufactured and then assembled, allowing standardization of components while maintaining the ability to fit through access openings
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element incorporates elastic or flexible materials that allow it to deform during insertion through the access opening and then return to its original shape in the receiving chamber, enabling a single larger filter element to pass through a smaller opening without requiring multiple smaller elements
2Volume of stationary object
If multiple adjacent filter elements are used to fill the receiving chamber, then the receiving chamber can be completely filled, but leaks occur in the mounting surfaces between filter elements
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element integrates the frame element and filter medium into a single unified component with continuous sealing surfaces, eliminating the gaps and potential leak paths that exist between multiple separate filter elements
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element combines rigid frame structures with flexible sealing materials to create a composite component that maintains structural integrity while providing continuous sealing contact with the receiving chamber walls
3Volume of stationary object
If multiple filter elements are used to fill the receiving chamber, then the receiving chamber can be completely filled, but additional frame elements are required for each filter element
Solution Approach 1:
The frame element and filter medium are merged into a single integrated filter element component, eliminating the need for separate frame elements for each filter medium section and reducing the overall number of parts
4Ease of operation
If filter elements are individually adapted to the receiving chamber and access opening, then they can be inserted properly, but they are not interchangeable and installation errors may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is designed with standardized dimensions and features that allow it to be used interchangeably across different receiving chambers and access openings, while the elastic properties enable it to adapt to slight variations in opening sizes
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
Simplifies assembly, improves sealing, reduces manufacturing costs, and allows for flexible use across different applications without the risk of incorrect or missed installations.
Implementation Method 1
The filter element (10) is elastic and can be deformed during installation so that the filter element (10) can be inserted through an opening (16) whose cross-section is smaller than that of the filter element (10)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6
AI summary
The invention relates to a filter module (14) comprising a filter element (10), said filter module (14) comprising an inlet (16) and an accommodating chamber (12) for accommodating the filter element (10). Said filter element (10) has, in its original state, a larger cross-section than the inlet (16) and can be suitably compressed such that it (10) can pass through the inlet (16) into the accommodating chamber (12). Also, said filter element (10) is sufficiently elastic to expand again after it has been compressed.