Filter Element Linear Rotary Motion Conversion for No Filter Safety

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current liquid filtration systems lack an effective 'no filter, no run' function that can be applied universally, limiting their ability to ensure engine operation safety by preventing fluid flow without a properly installed filter.

Innovation Solution

A filter element with a first linear to rotary motion conversion element engages with a valve element in the filter head, transitioning between open and closed positions to ensure fluid flow only when a compatible filter is installed, utilizing a cylindrical design with axially extending necks and O-ring seals for secure engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a flow control valve with rotating component is used to control fluid flow, then engine operation safety is improved, but the system can only be applied to filter housings using a standpipe, limiting versatility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengine operation safetyVSAvoidapplicability to different filter housing types
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element design incorporates a universal interface system with a flange and engagement features that can connect to multiple types of filter housings, not just standpipe configurations. The linear to rotary motion conversion mechanism works with various housing types, making the safety function applicable across different filtration system designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter element acts as an intermediary component between the fluid source and the filter housing, containing the motion conversion mechanism that mediates between linear insertion and rotary valve activation. This intermediary approach allows the safety function to be decoupled from specific housing types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If a keyed end cap with protrusions is used to unlock a latch mechanism, then filter installation is ensured, but the system complexity increases with multiple components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter installation assuranceVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the flange serves as both a structural support and an engagement interface, the engagement features are integrated directly into the filter element body rather than being separate components, and the linear to rotary motion conversion is achieved through the filter element's own geometry rather than external mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The flange structure serves multiple purposes: providing structural support for the filter element, creating a sealing surface, and incorporating engagement features that interact with the filter housing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Strength

If a bayonet lock with seal compression is used to fix the filter element, then secure connection is achieved, but the seal compression mechanism adds structural complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection securityVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The engagement features are merged with the flange structure, creating a unified component that provides both structural support and locking functionality. The seal is integrated into the flange assembly rather than being a separate compressed element, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining connection security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS20230271120A1Filter element, filter head, and filter system
Publication Date: 2023.08.31 DONALDSON CO INC
  • US20230271120A1 patent drawing
  • US20230271120A1 patent drawing
  • US20230271120A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A filter element for releasable connection with a filter head a first end cap defining a first open aperture; a tubular construction of filter media being secured to the first end cap; and an axially extending neck, surrounding the first open aperture, having, an outer radial surface and an inner radial surface. The filter element includes a first linear to rotary motion conversion element, arranged to engage with a second linear to rotary motion conversion element on a valve element of the filter head so as to impart, when the filter element is moved linearly towards the valve element in a direction along a longitudinal axis, a rotational movement onto the valve element.