Filter Assembly with Stretchable Bag Insert for Tool-Free Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing air duct filters require frequent replacement, leading to waste of resources due to the disposal of metallic or plastic frames, and the maintenance process is cumbersome due to the non-removable filter bags attached to these frames, which become dirty and need to be discarded along with the frames.
Innovation Solution
A filter assembly with a frame and a bag-like insert made of filter material, where the insert is fastened to the frame using a stretchable and/or elastic material that covers the frame, allowing easy installation and removal without additional fasteners, and the frame can be recycled.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If filter bags are permanently attached to frames, then the frame structure is simple and durable, but the maintenance work becomes cumbersome and frames get dirty requiring disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is divided into two separable components: a reusable frame and a replaceable filter bag. The filter bag can be detached from the frame for replacement without disposing of the frame itself, resolving the contradiction between ease of maintenance and resource waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables recovery and reuse of the frame component while only the filter bag is discarded after use. This separates the disposable element (filter bag) from the reusable element (frame), reducing overall waste and maintenance complexity.
2Reliability
If additional fastening means are used to attach filter bags, then the attachment is secure, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter bag's upper portion is designed to self-fasten to the frame through its own structural features (such as elastic edges or gripping surfaces) without requiring separate fastening components. This achieves secure attachment while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening function is merged into the filter bag structure itself rather than being a separate component. The filter bag incorporates its own attachment mechanism, eliminating the need for additional fastening means while ensuring secure connection to the frame.
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
Reduces maintenance work, minimizes waste, and ensures the frame remains clean by being covered by the filter material, while providing a secure seal against air leakage.
Implementation Method 1
The upper portion of the insert, which is bent over the frame part, comprises a stretch region made of stretchable material. The insert is fastened to the frame by a pressing force generated by the stretch region against the frame.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a filter assembly (16) comprising a frame (6) comprising a frame part (6.1) having a top side (7a), a bottom side (7d), inner edges (7c) defining an aperture (26) and outer edges (7b) forming an outer perimeter of the frame part (6.1), and a bag-like insert (11) comprising filter material and having an open upper portion (14) and at least one closed bottom portion. The insert (11) is fitted into the aperture (26) of the frame (6) with the open upper portion (14) bent over the frame part (6.1) to cover the top side (7a), the outer edges (7b) and at least part of the bottom side (7d) of the frame part (6.1). The upper portion (14) of the insert (11), which is bent over the frame (6), comprises a stretch region (27) made of stretchable material. The insert (11) is fastened to the frame (6) by a pressing force generated by the stretch region (27) against the frame (6).