Filter Cartridge Lock Ring Axial Engagement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional fuel filter cartridges are radially constrained by their connection to the filter head, limiting the size and filtration capacity of the filter media due to peripheral engagement, which does not accommodate varying filtration requirements and pressure changes in modern fuel supply systems.
Innovation Solution
A filter cartridge with an inwardly directed lock ring that engages the filter head through an interference fit or mechanical crimping, allowing for a threaded or bayonet connection system, enabling efficient connection without radial constraints, thus accommodating different filter head designs and increasing filtration capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filter cartridge is directly connected to the filter head or connected by a separate ring at the outermost diameter, then the connection can withstand vibration, shock, and high internal pressure, but the radial engagement limits the diameter and filtration capacity of the filter media
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves the engagement interface from the radial outermost diameter to the axial end surface of the filter cartridge. The recess in the end cap and corresponding protrusion on the filter head create an axial engagement system, freeing the radial dimension for increased filter media diameter and capacity while maintaining connection reliability through the axial locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of the filter head engaging the outer surface of the cartridge, the invention inverts the engagement geometry by creating a recess in the filter head's end cap that receives the cartridge's end surface. This inverted configuration allows the connection to occur at the axial dimension rather than the radial dimension, resolving the contradiction between connection strength and filtration capacity.
2Strength
If a separate ring is used to connect the filter cartridge to the filter head, then the connection can accommodate pressure changes and vibration, but the ring structure radially constrains the filter cartridge diameter
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the connection function directly into the filter head structure by integrating a recess into the end cap. This eliminates the need for a separate external ring, as the recess itself provides the locking engagement. The merging of the connection mechanism into the existing structure removes the radial constraint while maintaining connection strength under pressure and vibration.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate ring connection at the radial dimension is replaced by an axial end-surface engagement system. The recess in the end cap creates an axial locking interface that provides connection strength without imposing radial constraints on the cartridge diameter, thereby increasing the available space for filter media.
3Device complexity
If the filter cartridge uses peripheral engagement with the filter head, then the connection is simple, but the engagement radially limits the size of replacement cartridges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions the engagement from radial peripheral contact to axial end-surface contact. The recess in the end cap creates a simple axial engagement system that does not radially constrain the cartridge, allowing larger filter media sizes while maintaining connection simplicity through the straightforward recess-protrusion interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the traditional engagement approach by placing the engagement interface at the axial end surface rather than at the radial periphery. This inverted geometry simplifies the connection while simultaneously removing the radial size limitation, as the engagement occurs in the axial dimension where it does not interfere with the radial dimensions of the filter media.
4Ease of manufacture
If the filter cartridge is designed for direct connection at the outermost diameter, then the connection structure is simple, but the filtration capacity is limited by the radial constraint
Solution Approach 1:
The manufacturing approach shifts from creating radial engagement features at the outer diameter to creating an axial recess in the end cap. This dimensional shift maintains manufacturing simplicity while enabling larger filter media diameters, thereby increasing filtration capacity without complicating the manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the engagement location from the radial outer surface to the axial end surface. This inversion allows the filter cartridge to be manufactured with a simple end cap recess rather than complex radial engagement features, maintaining ease of manufacture while significantly increasing the available radial space for high-capacity filter media.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter cartridge has first and second housing sections joined at a peripheral shoulder to define an interior space. The first housing section includes radially spaced inner and outer side walls connected by a first transition portion to define an annular space. A lock ring is secured to the housing within the annular space. The lock ring includes at least one engagement structure within the annular space.