Filter Element Cover Connection Using Elastic Bead
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter designs for internal combustion engines face challenges in connecting the cover body to the filter medium in a simple, reliable, and compact manner, particularly in terms of radial dimensions and assembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A clamp connection using a connecting pipe section with a bead that is elastically deformable during assembly, allowing for a positive fit and reduced radial dimensions, eliminating the need for additional tools or specific environmental conditions, and enabling immediate use of the filter medium after assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If snap-in lugs are attached radially on the outside of the end plate to connect the cover body to the filter medium, then the connection is achieved, but the radial dimensions of the cover body become larger and the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of attaching snap-in lugs to the outside of the end plate as in prior art, the invention inverts the approach by providing a bead that extends around the circumference on the radially outer circumferential side of the connecting pipe section, which is inserted from the inside. This inversion moves the connection mechanism to the interior side, reducing external radial dimensions while maintaining connection reliability through the bead's elastic deformation and snapping action against the filter medium folds.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting pipe section with the bead is inserted through the connection opening from the interior side, effectively nesting the connection mechanism within the existing structure. The bead engages with the folds of the filter medium from the inside, utilizing the available space efficiently and reducing the need for external protruding elements that would increase radial dimensions.
2Reliability
If adhesive bonding is used to connect the cover body to the filter medium, then the connection is achieved, but additional tools, materials, and process control are required increasing manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the chemical bonding process of adhesive bonding with a mechanical clamping connection. The bead, made of elastically deformable material, is inserted and then elastically deformed during assembly to engage with the folds of the filter medium. This mechanical connection eliminates the need for adhesives, additional tools, and complex process control while maintaining reliable connection through the bead's elastic deformation and snapping action.
Solution Approach 2:
The bead performs the connection function through its own elastic deformation properties. During assembly, the bead is elastically deformed to engage with the filter medium folds, and this self-deforming characteristic provides the connection without requiring external adhesives or bonding agents. The material's inherent elastic properties enable the connection to be made through simple insertion and deformation.
3Reliability
If adhesive bonding is used to connect the cover body to the filter medium, then the connection is achieved, but the filter medium cannot be used immediately until the adhesive hardens
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces adhesive bonding with immediate mechanical clamping through the bead's elastic deformation. The bead is inserted and elastically deformed during assembly to engage with the filter medium folds, providing immediate connection without the waiting time required for adhesive hardening. The mechanical connection is established instantly upon insertion and deformation, eliminating the time loss associated with chemical bonding processes.
4Ease of operation
If the bead and connection section are made elastically deformable for assembly, then easy assembly is achieved, but the holding power may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The invention utilizes parameter changes in the material properties of the bead and connection section. During assembly, the materials are in an elastically deformable state to facilitate easy insertion and engagement. After assembly, the materials undergo a transition to a harder, more rigid state through heat treatment and aging, increasing the holding power. This parameter change allows the same component to satisfy both assembly ease and long-term strength requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The bead is designed to be dynamically adaptable, transitioning from an elastically deformable state during assembly to a more rigid state during operation. This dynamic behavior allows the bead to be easily inserted and deformed during assembly, then maintain strong holding power during service. The material's ability to change its mechanical properties over time resolves the contradiction between assembly ease and operational strength.
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
The clamp connection ensures a secure, compact, and cost-effective assembly process with enhanced tensile strength and reduced manufacturing effort, preventing twisting of the cover body relative to the filter medium and allowing for immediate use without waiting for adhesive hardening.
Implementation Method 1
the bead and the connection section are elastically deformable relative to each other in the radial direction, at least for assembly
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
The filter element (20) has a folded filter medium (22) in a coaxial form and a lid body with a hard lid ring disk (34). A connecting pipe section (50) is arranged on the side of the lid ring disk facing the filter medium and is plugged into a connection opening (54). The lid ring disk is made of hard plastic and a return stop membrane (32) is made of silicone.