Filter Insert Actuation Mechanism for Engine Maintenance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter arrangements for internal combustion engines face challenges in securely inserting a new filter insert into the filter housing, which can lead to operational inefficiencies and increased maintenance costs.

Innovation Solution

The filter insert is designed with a first actuation means at one end, which can be actuated by a corresponding second actuation means on the filter housing lid, allowing for controlled relative axial movement between the filter insert and the lid, simplifying insertion and removal processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional filter insert designs are used, then the filter housing can be manufactured with standard structures, but the insertion and removal of the filter insert becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of filter insert insertion and removalVSAvoidmaintenance time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The filter insert design incorporates dynamic elements including a flexible filter material body that can deform during insertion, and a movable blocking element that shifts position based on insertion depth. The actuation means includes movable actuating elements that engage with corresponding features on the filter housing lid to control the blocking element's position dynamically during the insertion/removal process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The filter insert is divided into distinct functional segments: the filter material body, the blocking element, and the actuation means with actuating elements. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as a unified system for easy insertion and removal

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If specialized tools are required for filter insert installation, then precise positioning can be achieved, but the complexity of the maintenance process increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning precision of filter insertVSAvoidcomplexity of insertion mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter insert design enables self-positioning through the interaction between the actuating elements on the filter insert and the corresponding features on the filter housing lid. The blocking element automatically moves to the correct position as the filter insert is inserted, and the actuation means self-actuates through the mechanical interaction during installation, eliminating the need for external specialized tools

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The actuating elements serve as intermediaries between the filter insert and the filter housing lid, translating the insertion motion into the appropriate positioning actions. These elements mediate the interaction between components to achieve precise positioning without requiring complex external tooling

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12233361B2Filter insert and guide arrangement

Publication Date: 2025.02.25 VOLVO TRUCK CORP

AI summary

A filter insert is provided for being removably arranged in a filter housing and includes a first actuation arrangement positioned at a first end of the filter insert, wherein the first actuation arrangement is adapted for being actuated by a corresponding second actuation arrangement of a filter housing lid for controlling a relative axial movement between the filter insert and the filter housing lid.