Filter End Plate Layout for Contamination Indication and Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter elements for hydraulic systems do not provide a means to automatically determine the degree of contamination, which limits the ability to manage filter material effectively and ensure optimal operation.
Innovation Solution
An end plate design with a through opening surrounded by a sealing ring, creating a free space for an anti-rotation lock that allows for the integration of a switch or bypass valve, enabling the indication of contamination levels and facilitating emergency operation by allowing the bypassing of the filter element when contamination reaches a certain level.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a switch or bypass valve is integrated into the filter element, then automatic contamination indication and safety functions are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch and bypass valve into a single integrated anti-rotation lock mechanism within the end plate. This merging of functions allows automatic contamination indication and safety bypass functionality to be achieved without proportionally increasing device complexity, as both functions share common structural elements and actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The anti-rotation lock serves multiple functions: it prevents rotation of the switch, acts as a bypass valve when contamination is detected, and provides structural support for the end plate. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby enabling automation without linearly increasing device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the anti-rotation lock has sufficient travel for actuation, then the switch and bypass valve can be properly actuated, but the end plate requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the radial dimension of the end plate to accommodate the anti-rotation lock's travel path. Instead of requiring additional axial or longitudinal space, the lock moves radially outward from the center, allowing sufficient actuation travel while maintaining a compact end plate volume. The lock's journey from a retracted position to an extended position that engages the bypass valve is achieved through radial movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The end plate is designed with a localized recess or cavity in the region where the anti-rotation lock travels. This local modification provides the necessary space for the lock's actuation path without increasing the overall end plate volume. The recess is strategically positioned to accommodate the lock's movement while maintaining the compactness of the overall filter element structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an end plate for filter material (10) for filtering a liquid, particularly a hydraulic oil, having a through opening (11) for filtered liquid, which is surrounded by a sealing ring (20) for a connecting piece, and a cover (12) for the filter material (10). The invention is characterized in that the sealing ring (20) delimits a free space (13) for accommodating an anti-rotation lock (14) of a switch (15) and/or a bypass valve (16) of a filter system (30). Furthermore, the invention relates to a filter element, a filter system and a method for filtering liquid.