Filter Device Asymmetric Pin Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter devices face issues with impaired filter performance and potential damage when using unauthorized or imitation filter elements, necessitating a solution to ensure only authorized elements are used while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A ring filter element with a dirt pot featuring two socket-shaped pins, where one pin engages in an idle channel for sealing and the other, hollow pin allows for drainage, ensuring only authorized elements can operate the device effectively, with a water separator integrated into the dirt pot for efficient fluid management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If filter elements from other manufacturers or imitations are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but filter performance is impaired and damage can be caused to the filter device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by providing filter housing cups with asymmetric channel arrangements (idle channel and disposal channel in specific positions) that only accommodate filter elements with correspondingly asymmetric pin configurations. This asymmetric design ensures that only authorized filter elements with the correct pin placement can be installed, preventing the use of imitation elements while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through standardized pin and channel components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces pins as intermediary elements that mediate between the filter housing cup and the filter element. These pins serve as a coupling mechanism that not only secures the filter element but also verifies its authenticity through the channel engagement system. The pins act as an intermediary verification layer that ensures only authorized elements can operate the filter device.
2Reliability
If two pins are provided on the dirt pot, then authorized filter elements can be ensured, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing the pins to serve multiple purposes: they act as both coupling elements to secure the filter element and as verification elements through the channel engagement system. The idle channel pin provides sealing and structural support, while the disposal channel pin enables drainage functionality. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate verification mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the verification function and the coupling function into a single integrated system of pins and channels. Rather than using separate pins for verification and separate pins for coupling, the design combines these functions into a unified mechanism where the pin configurations simultaneously achieve both verification of authorized elements and mechanical coupling, thereby minimizing additional complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the hollow pin is used for drainage, then fluid drainage is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the internal structure of the disposal channel pin from solid to hollow configuration. This parameter change enables the pin to function as a drainage pathway while maintaining its structural integrity as a coupling element. The hollow design allows fluid to pass through during drainage operations, and the parameter change can be efficiently implemented through standard manufacturing techniques such as injection molding with hollow cavities or tubular forming processes.
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
The solution ensures reliable operation with authorized filter elements, prevents damage from unauthorized use, and allows for cost-effective manufacturing by ensuring proper assembly and fluid drainage, enhancing filter performance and safety.
Implementation Method 1
the water separator arranged inside the dirt pot is designed as a coalescer
Implementation Method 2
at least one sealing element (11, 11') is arranged on the pins (7, 7'), in particular on its pin head, which seals the respective channel (9, 9') tightly when the pin (7, 7') engages therein
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a filter device (14) with a ring filter element (1) arranged vertically in a filter housing (10), the ring filter element having an upper end disk (2) and a lower end disk (3). It is essential to the invention that: - a dirt pot (5) with a water separator (6) arranged therein is provided on the lower end disk (3); - the dirt pot (5) has a projecting, nozzle-shaped pin (7); - a channel (9) designed complementary to the pin (7) is provided on a filter housing pot or on a functional element (8) that can be inserted into the filter housing pot of the filter device, wherein operation of the filter device is only possible if the pin (7) engages in the channel (9).