Fluid Filter Element with Actuator Keys for Standpipe Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid filter assemblies face challenges during filter element replacement, where disturbance can cause contaminants to fall into the outlet, potentially reaching downstream components, and require skin contact with fuel, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A fluid filter assembly with a standpipe and flow control valve, featuring a tubular filter media and center tube with actuator keys that actuate the valve, ensuring proper fluid flow and minimizing contamination during filter element replacement by automatically pushing the spent element outward, allowing fluid to drip back into the housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the filter element is replaced manually, then the filter element can be changed to maintain filtration performance, but contaminants may fall into the outlet and reach downstream components
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve is pre-configured to automatically close when the filter element is removed, preventing contaminants from falling into the outlet before the replacement is complete. This preliminary protective action eliminates the harmful effect of contaminant discharge during the replacement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control valve acts as an intermediary mechanism between the filter element and the outlet. It controls the fluid flow path and can be positioned to block the outlet, serving as a mediator that prevents direct contact between contaminants and the downstream system during element replacement.
2Reliability
If the filter element is replaced manually, then the filter element can be changed to maintain filtration performance, but skin contact with fuel is required
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve system enables the filter element replacement process to protect itself automatically. When the element is removed, the valve closes to contain fuel within the housing, allowing the replacement to proceed without requiring external intervention that would expose skin to fuel.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control valve serves as an intermediary that isolates the fuel from the operator during replacement. By controlling the fluid path and sealing the housing, it mediates between the fuel system and the external environment, eliminating the need for skin contact with fuel.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the flow control valve is added to the standpipe, then contaminant discharge is prevented during replacement, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control valve is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls fluid flow during normal operation, automatically closes during element replacement to prevent contaminant discharge, and can be actuated by the element itself or externally. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by providing multiple benefits from a single component.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter element is removably positionable within a filter housing that includes a standpipe extending therewithin and provided with a flow control valve. The filter element comprises a tubular filter media, a first end cap, a second end cap longitudinally spaced from the first end cap, and a center tube extending between the first and second end caps. The center tube has a substantially cylindrical body extending between opposite first and second ends of the center tube. The center tube has at least one inlet opening formed on the cylindrical body and a standpipe opening at the second end thereof adjacent to the second end cap through which the standpipe may be inserted longitudinally into the center tube. The center tube further has at least one actuator key provided to open the flow control valve of the standpipe.