Air Filter Endcap Seal Layout for Easier Element Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional air cleaner assemblies require disassembly of the cover to access the filter element for servicing, and the use of planar endcaps limits flexibility in housing space utilization.
Innovation Solution
An air cleaner assembly design featuring a filter element with a closed endplate that forms a seal at varying axial distances, allowing the filter element to be serviced without removing the cover and providing flexibility in housing space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If a filter element is designed to be foldable to fit into a compact housing, then the housing space requirement is reduced, but the seal reliability between the cap and filter element may be compromised due to bending stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element is divided into multiple pleated sections or segments that can flex independently. This segmentation allows the filter element to be folded into a compact configuration while maintaining seal integrity, as each segment can accommodate bending stresses without compromising the overall seal between the cap and filter element.
2Ease of repair
If the cap is made movable to enable removal of the filter element, then the filter element can be replaced, but the structural complexity of the housing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cap is merged with the housing structure through a integrated design where the cap forms an integral part of the housing assembly. This combination allows the cap to be movable for filter element removal while avoiding the complexity of separate moving cap mechanisms, as the cap and housing work together as a unified structure with simplified movement constraints.
3Volume of moving object
If the filter element is made collapsible to reduce housing space, then the volume efficiency is improved, but the structural integrity during operation may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Different parts of the filter element are designed with different structural properties - the cap and base portions maintain rigid structures for structural integrity, while the intermediate filtering sections are designed with collapsible or pleated configurations. This local differentiation allows the filter element to collapse into a compact form for space efficiency while maintaining sufficient structural integrity in the critical cap and base regions during operation.
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
Facilitates easy access and servicing of the filter element without disassembling the housing, while maintaining a seal to prevent fluid leakage, thus reducing service time and effort.
Implementation Method 1
a seal (44) positioned between the cap and the filter element
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
An air cleaner assembly comprises a housing and a filter element. The housing comprises a first housing end and a second housing end. The second housing end of the housing defines an opening of the housing for fluid flow. The filter element is configured to be received through the first housing end of the housing. The filter element comprises a filter media and a closed endplate. The filter media comprises a first media end and a second media end. The second media end of the filter media defines an opening of the filter element for fluid flow. The closed endplate is positioned along the first media end of the filter media and comprises a wall with an axially inner surface and an axially outer surface. The axially outer surface is exposed to an area outside of the housing and closes off the first housing end of the housing when the filter element is positioned within the housing.