Filter Connector Protrusion Recess Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter apparatuses for compressed air are cumbersome in confined spaces due to the need for significant space to remove and replace filters, and handling dirty filters is messy and difficult due to oil coatings.
Innovation Solution
A filter apparatus with a connector that includes a protrusion and recess system, allowing the filter to be retained within the bowl during separation, reducing space requirements and enabling easier handling by gripping the clean connector rather than the dirty filter, along with flexible members and manual engaging portions for controlled separation and reduced contact with oil.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the filter bowl is separated from the filter head to replace the filter, then the filter can be accessed and replaced, but significant space is required around the filter apparatus which limits installation in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct functional portions: a head engaging portion that connects to the filter head, a filter engaging portion that retains the filter, and a bowl engaging portion that connects to the filter bowl. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized for its specific function while working together as an integrated system that solves the space constraint problem.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter and connector assembly is designed to be retained within the filter bowl during separation from the filter head. The bowl engaging portion with protrusions fits into recesses in the bowl, creating a nested configuration where the filter assembly remains contained within the bowl even when the bowl is separated from the head, minimizing the space required for filter replacement.
2Ease of operation
If the filter is handled directly during replacement, then the filter can be removed and replaced, but the filter is coated with oil making it difficult and messy to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves as an intermediary between the operator and the filter. The filter engaging portion of the connector provides a clean gripping surface that allows operators to handle and remove the filter assembly without directly contacting the oil-coated filter element. This intermediary structure transfers the harmful oil coating effect from the filter to the connector, protecting the operator's hands.
3Area of stationary object
If the connector is designed to retain the filter in the bowl during separation, then space requirements are reduced, but the connector must be strong enough to withstand separation forces
Solution Approach 1:
Different portions of the connector are designed with different structural characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The head engaging portion is designed to connect with the filter head, the filter engaging portion is designed to securely retain the filter element, and the bowl engaging portion with flexible members is designed to connect with the bowl while accommodating separation forces. Each portion has localized structural qualities that collectively provide the necessary overall strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The bowl engaging portion incorporates flexible members that can dynamically respond to separation forces. These flexible members allow the connector to flex and accommodate the forces generated during bowl separation from the head, while still maintaining secure retention of the filter assembly. The dynamic flexibility of these members prevents brittle failure under load.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter apparatus for filtering a stream of gas is disclosed. The apparatus has a head with an inlet and an outlet, the head also having a first flow conduit connected to the inlet and a second flow conduit the outlet. The apparatus also has a filter and a bowl which contains the filter and is connected to the head. The bowl an annular recess. There is also a connector for connecting the filter to the head and the bowl. The part of the connector that engages the bowl has a protrusion that is inserted into the recess.