Filter Edge Strip Closure Structure for Cabin Air Filter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filters for vehicle cabins are costly to produce and require complex handling and assembly processes, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased production costs.
Innovation Solution
A pleated filter medium with an attached edge strip and holding elements that form a shutter structure to securely fix the filter in a filter housing, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly without the need for separate fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate fastening devices such as covers are used to secure the filter in the filter housing, then the filter can be firmly fixed, but the handling and assembly processes become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filter element and the fastening function into a single integrated structure. The edge strip with integrated retaining elements (locking tabs and locking lugs) is directly attached to the filter medium, eliminating the need for separate fastening devices like covers. This integration allows the filter to be firmly fixed while maintaining simple handling and assembly processes.
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for filter assembly, then the filter can be securely fixed in the housing, but the number of components increases leading to higher production costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into fewer components. The edge strip serves both as a structural element and as a fastening mechanism through its integrated retaining elements. The filter assembly consists of the filter medium and the edge strip with retaining elements, eliminating the need for separate covers, screws, or other fastening devices, thus reducing the total number of components while maintaining secure fixation.
3Device complexity
If traditional filter designs are used without integrated retaining elements, then the filter structure remains simple, but the filter requires separate fastening devices that increase assembly complexity and reduce interchangeability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates retaining elements directly into the edge strip of the filter medium, creating a self-contained fastening system. This integration maintains structural simplicity while dramatically improving interchangeability, as the filter can be quickly installed and removed from the housing by simply engaging or disengaging the retaining elements with the corresponding fastening sections, without requiring separate fastening devices or complex assembly procedures.
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter (1) comprising a pleated filter medium (2), an edge strip (3), and at least one retaining element (4), wherein the edge strip (3) is attached to one side of the filter medium (2), and the retaining element (4) is associated with the edge strip (3), characterized in that the edge strip (3) and the retaining element (4) form a closure structure (5) for fixing the filter (1) in a filter housing (6). The invention further comprises a filter arrangement (22) comprising a filter housing (6) and a described filter (1).