Filter Element Connection Structure for Clean Fluid Exchange
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter systems face challenges in providing a simple and safe method for removing and replacing filter elements without allowing raw fluid to contaminate the filtered fluid during the exchange process.
Innovation Solution
A filter element design featuring a connection element at the first end disc that extends in a longitudinal direction, allowing for secure snap-fit or bayonet connections with the second housing part, ensuring easy removal and replacement while retaining raw fluid within the housing part during exchange.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a filter element is designed with a connection element extending in longitudinal direction, then the ease of operation for removal and installation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional connection components
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is divided into distinct functional components: a filter medium body and a separate connection element. This segmentation allows the connection element to be optimized independently for easy attachment and detachment operations, while the filter medium body maintains its filtering function. The connection element can be designed with specific geometric features (protrusions, recesses, threading) that facilitate simple manual or automated connection and disconnection without affecting the overall filtering performance.
2Productivity
If snap-fit connections are used for mounting filter elements, then the productivity of filter exchange is improved, but the reliability of fluid sealing may worsen due to potential connection failures
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element integrates multiple functions into a single component: mechanical attachment (snap-fit or threaded connection), fluid sealing (through integrated seals or gaskets), and structural support. By merging the sealing function directly into the connection element rather than relying on separate sealing components, the design ensures that proper mechanical connection automatically guarantees fluid tightness. This eliminates the risk of disconnected sealing elements and ensures that when the connection is secure, the seal is also secure.
3Ease of operation
If the connection element extends away from the first end disc in longitudinal direction, then the ease of operation for removal is improved, but the length of the filter element increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element utilizes the longitudinal dimension strategically by extending from the end disc in the axial direction of the filter element. This dimensional arrangement allows the connection features (such as protrusions, recesses, or threading) to be positioned at the extremity of the filter element, providing adequate leverage and access for removal operations. The extension length is optimized to provide sufficient operational clearance while minimizing overall length increase, ensuring that the connection element protrudes just enough to enable easy grasping or tool engagement without excessively increasing the filter's axial dimension.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter element for a fluid to be installed in a housing of a filter system, wherein the housing has at least a first housing part, a second housing part, and a filter head, is provided with a filter medium body having an end disc at an end face. One or more connection elements for connecting the filter element to at least one counterpart connection element of the second housing part are arranged at the end disc and extend away from the end disc in a longitudinal direction of the filter element. A filter system is provided with such a filter element which is arranged in the housing of the filter system and is connected to the counterpart connection element of the second housing part.