Filter Element Head Locking for Easy, Damage-Free Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

The complex and difficult installation of filter units due to the large number of components required, which can lead to damage during assembly and requires experienced workers.

Innovation Solution

A filter unit design featuring form-fitting elements on the filter element heads and a carrier with counter-locking elements, along with force-absorbing parts to limit the assembly force, allowing for easy and problem-free alignment and secure fastening without damaging the filter heads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a traditional rail and bolt system is used to secure filter elements, then the filter element can be firmly attached to the carrier, but the installation becomes complex and costly due to the large number of components required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment strengthVSAvoidnumber of components
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated clamp element that simultaneously provides alignment, securing, and force absorption functions. This eliminates the need for separate rails, multiple bolts, and alignment features, reducing the component count while maintaining firm attachment of filter elements to the carrier

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The clamp element is designed as a multi-functional component that performs alignment (through the form-fitting depression), securing (through the clamping action), and force absorption (through the integrated force-absorbing part). This universal component replaces multiple specialized parts, simplifying the overall assembly while ensuring strong attachment

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

2Strength

If excessive force is applied during installation to ensure secure attachment, then the filter element is firmly mounted, but the head of the filter element may be damaged or destroyed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoiddamage to filter head
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The force-absorbing part is pre-integrated into the clamp element at the location where excessive force would be applied during installation. This cushioning structure is designed beforehand to deform or absorb excess force, protecting the filter element head from damage while still allowing sufficient force to achieve secure mounting

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The force-absorbing part acts as an intermediary between the fastening element and the filter element head. It mediates the force transmission by absorbing excessive force before it reaches the vulnerable head, while still transmitting adequate force to ensure proper mounting security

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Manufacturing precision

If precise alignment is required for proper installation, then the filter element fits correctly on the carrier, but the installation process becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The form-fitting depression is pre-formed in the clamp element with precise geometry that complements the carrier features. This preliminary precision work is done during manufacturing, allowing for quick and easy alignment during installation without requiring complex alignment procedures or highly skilled workers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP1726348B1Filter unit and filter element
Publication Date: 2014.01.01 HANDTE UMWELTTECHN
  • EP1726348B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP1726348B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP1726348B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The filter element (1) has a filter body (1') and a head (7) connected to the filter body (1'). To design the filter element (1) for easy assembly with a simple construction, the head (7) is provided with at least one positive locking element (10, 11). This allows the filter element (1) to be easily positioned for installation. This makes installing the filter element (1) simple and straightforward.