Fluid Filter Endcap Sealing Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid filter systems require complex and precise assembly with multiple components to achieve effective sealing, which can lead to fluid leakage and damage to engine components during filter replacement, and existing solutions complicate the alignment and manufacturing tolerances.
Innovation Solution
A fluid filter system with an endcap design that includes integral outer and inner seal members, which are radially and axially compressed to provide sealing between the filter assembly and the container, reducing the need for complex components and improving sealing efficiency during assembly and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple seal components are used to achieve effective sealing, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple seal functions into a single integrated endcap component. The endcap includes an outer seal member that seals between the filter assembly and container, and an inner seal member that seals between the inlet and outlet ports, both formed as integral portions of the same component rather than separate parts requiring assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The endcap serves multiple sealing functions simultaneously: the outer seal member provides sealing between the filter assembly and container, while the inner seal member provides sealing between inlet and outlet ports. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate seal components and their associated assembly steps.
2Reliability
If multiple seal components are used to achieve effective sealing, then sealing reliability is improved, but manufacturing precision and alignment tolerances increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple seal functions into a single integrated endcap component. The endcap includes an outer seal member that seals between the filter assembly and container, and an inner seal member that seals between the inlet and outlet ports, both formed as integral portions of the same component rather than separate parts requiring assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The endcap incorporates localized seal members at specific locations where sealing is required: the outer seal member at the interface between filter assembly and container, and the inner seal member at the inlet/outlet port interface. This targeted approach ensures sealing reliability without requiring high precision throughout the entire component.
3Reliability
If complex assembly procedures are used to ensure proper seal seating, then sealing reliability is improved, but ease of operation and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple seal functions into a single integrated endcap component. The endcap includes an outer seal member that seals between the filter assembly and container, and an inner seal member that seals between the inlet and outlet ports, both formed as integral portions of the same component rather than separate parts requiring assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal members are pre-formed as integral portions of the endcap during manufacturing, with their final shapes and positions predetermined. This preliminary formation eliminates the need for complex assembly procedures to achieve proper seal seating, as the seals are already configured correctly before installation.
4Reliability
If traditional filter replacement procedures are used, then seal reseating can be achieved, but fluid leakage may occur during priming and assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The seal members are pre-formed as integral portions of the endcap during manufacturing, with their final shapes and positions predetermined. This preliminary formation eliminates the need for complex assembly procedures to achieve proper seal seating, as the seals are already configured correctly before installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple seal functions into a single integrated endcap component. The endcap includes an outer seal member that seals between the filter assembly and container, and an inner seal member that seals between the inlet and outlet ports, both formed as integral portions of the same component rather than separate parts requiring assembly.
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 system achieves effective sealing between unfiltered and filtered fluid flows without requiring numerous complex components, reducing fluid leakage and simplifying the assembly process, thereby minimizing the risk of engine component damage during filter replacement.
Implementation Method 1
an outer seal member and an inner seal member, each disposed adjacent a respective end of the filter medium and radially compressed, wherein the first endcap, outer seal member and inner seal member are axially compressed to provide sealing between the filter assembly and the container
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
An endcap including a first plate member including a radial inner portion, a radial outer portion, and defining a longitudinal axis. The endcap also includes a flange disposed between the radial inner and outer portions of the first plate member and projecting axially along the longitudinal axis in a first direction. The endcap also includes a first seal member disposed adjacent the flange. The first seal includes a first portion thereof engaged with an axial facing surface of the first plate member and a second portion thereof engaged with a radially facing surface of the flange. The endcap further includes a second plate member disposed radially outward of the radial outer portion and a second seal member disposed adjacent the second plate member including at least a portion thereof axially spaced from the axially facing surface of the first plate member in a second direction along the longitudinal axis opposite the first direction.