Filter Box Quick-Release Mechanism for Tool-Free Maintenance

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter box maintenance requires tools for attaching and detaching filter cells and outlet grilles, which complicates and prolongs the process, and existing designs often involve screws that can damage the frame.

Innovation Solution

A filter box design featuring quick-release devices with L-shaped corner brackets and a bolt system that allows for tool-free attachment and detachment, using a plastic support foot and a toggle lever for secure locking, and a magnet for holding the air outlet grille, eliminating the need for screws and simplifying installation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If screws are used to attach filter cells and outlet grilles, then secure fastening is achieved, but maintenance time increases and tools are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance operationVSAvoidmaintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the screw-based mechanical fastening system with a magnetic attachment system. The outlet grille and filter cell frame are equipped with magnetic elements that provide secure holding without requiring screws or tools, enabling tool-free maintenance operations while reducing maintenance time significantly

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the fastening mechanism from friction-based screw threads to magnetic field-based attraction. This parameter change allows for quick attachment and detachment of components by simply bringing them into proximity, eliminating the time-consuming screw tightening and loosening processes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Strength

If metal bolts are used to secure filter cells, then strong fastening is achieved, but frame damage occurs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefastening strengthVSAvoidframe damage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent substitutes metal-to-metal mechanical fastening with magnetic attraction. The magnetic elements are embedded in or attached to the filter cell frame and outlet grille, providing strong holding force without the need for metal bolts that could strip, crack, or damage the frame structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary between the filter cell frame and outlet grille. This intermediary force transmits the fastening action without direct mechanical contact that could cause damage, allowing the magnetic field to mediate the connection and protect the frame from mechanical stress

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If fixed-height filter cells are used, then simple design is achieved, but adaptability to different sizes is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter cell height variationVSAvoidadjustment mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces adjustable support feet with magnetic elements that can be positioned at different heights along the filter cell frame. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to accommodate filter cells of various heights while maintaining a relatively simple overall design, as the adjustability is achieved through movable rather than complex mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

This design significantly reduces maintenance time and effort by allowing tool-free operation, preventing frame damage, and accommodating various filter cell heights and sizes, while also simplifying installation by eliminating screws.

Implementation Method 1

A magnet is attached to the end of this support foot. Its function is to hold the air outlet grille in place.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3088812B1Filter box with a housing
Publication Date: 2019.12.04 SCHAKO METALLWARENFABRIK FERDINAND SCHAD KG
  • EP3088812B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3088812B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4

AI summary

In a filter box in a housing containing a filter cell with a frame that is supported against corner brackets (E) in the corner areas of the housing, the corner brackets (E) shall engage detachably in pockets (9) provided on the housing and a bolt (3) shall pass through the corner bracket (E) and be pressed against the frame of the filter cell via a quick-release device (S).