Filter Coupling Device for Simultaneous Screw Actuation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter devices for hydraulic systems require time-consuming maintenance due to the need for independent manipulation of two screw connections for assembly and disassembly, which complicates the replacement of filter elements and can lead to system malfunctions if not performed carefully.

Innovation Solution

A coupling device that transmits torque between threaded elements of the screw connections, allowing both screw connections to be actuated in a single operation, with a ratchet-like mechanism that ensures secure tightening and subsequent rotational freedom until the housing parts are fully connected, and adjustable torque to prevent over-tightening and damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If two separate screw connections are used to secure the filter element to the housing, then the filter element is securely fixed, but the maintenance time increases due to independent manipulation of both connections

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecure fixing of filter elementVSAvoidmaintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines two separate screw connections into a single integrated coupling device. The coupling device includes a first coupling element that engages with the filter element's threaded connection and a second coupling element that engages with the housing's threaded connection. By rotating the coupling device as a single unit, both screw connections are actuated simultaneously, reducing maintenance time while maintaining secure fixing of the filter element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If a coupling device is introduced to transmit torque between threaded elements, then both screw connections can be actuated in a single operation, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemaintenance efficiencyVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The coupling device is segmented into distinct functional elements: a first coupling element with external threads for engaging the filter element, a second coupling element with internal threads for engaging the housing, and a torque transmission mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity. The modular design enables easy manufacturing and assembly without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

Significantly reduces maintenance time by allowing both screw connections to be secured with a single rotary actuation, enhancing the operational reliability and safety of hydraulic systems by simplifying the filter element replacement process while preventing damage to sealing devices.

Implementation Method 1

a coupling device inserted for transmitting a torque between threaded elements, rotatable in relation to one another, of the one and the other screw connection

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTorque transmission: Torque

Implementation Method 2

with a ratchet-like mechanism that ensures secure tightening and subsequent rotational freedom until the housing parts are fully connected

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRatchet mechanism: Ratchet

Data Source

PatentUS10926202B2Filter device with coupling element
Publication Date: 2021.02.23 HYDAC FILTERTECHNIK GMBH
  • US10926202B2 patent drawing
  • US10926202B2 patent drawing
  • US10926202B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A filter device has a filter element (1) received in a filter housing of at least two interconnectable housing parts (17, 19). The filter element (1) can be fixed to a housing part (19) in a removable manner by one screw connection (32, 33). An additional screw connection (17, 41) is provided for connecting the housing parts (17, 19). To transmit a torque between threaded elements (33) of the one screw connection (32, 33) and of the additional screw connection (41), the threaded elements are rotatable relative to each other. A coupling device (43, 46, 61) is added that allows an additional rotational movement of the threaded element (17) of the additional screw connection (41) when the threaded element (33) of the one screw connection (32, 33) reaches the fixed rotational state.