Filter module with a filter element and with a fastening frame and air filter device with a filter module
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter modules for interior air filtration in vehicles face challenges in reliable and seal-tight installation and removal due to component tolerances and vibration, often requiring additional tolerance compensation and complex locking mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A filter module with a fastening frame and filter element featuring a circumferentially extending first sealing element for tolerance compensation and vibration-resistant fastening, combined with a second radial sealing element for sealing between the raw and clean sides, allowing for secure locking and easy exchangeability within an air filter device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a filter element is installed in a filter housing, then filtration function is achieved, but component tolerances cause unreliable sealing and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses elastic deformation of the filter element's bellows structure to change dimensional parameters dynamically. During installation, the bellows deforms elastically to accommodate tolerance variations between the filter element and housing, then returns to its original shape to provide consistent sealing pressure, transforming a rigid dimensional mismatch problem into a flexible adaptation solution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a pre-compressed sealing element between the filter element flange and the housing flange. This sealing element is designed to be compressed beforehand during assembly, creating a cushioning effect that compensates for tolerance variations before the filter element is fully installed, ensuring reliable sealing from the outset
2Stability of the object's composition
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the filter element, then positioning stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sealing function and the locking function into a single integrated structure. The sealing element serves dual purposes: it provides the sealing barrier against contaminants and simultaneously acts as the locking mechanism through its elastic deformation characteristics. When compressed, it locks the filter element in position; when released, it allows for easy removal, eliminating the need for separate locking components
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element's bellows structure performs self-locking through its own elastic properties. During installation, the bellows deforms to engage with the housing, automatically securing the element in position without requiring external locking mechanisms. The structure serves itself by using its material properties to achieve both sealing and positioning functions
3Reliability
If additional sealing elements are added for tolerance compensation, then sealing performance is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the bellows structure to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the filter medium support and the tolerance compensation mechanism. The same elastic structure that provides structural integrity also compensates for manufacturing tolerances through its deformation capabilities, eliminating the need for separate tolerance compensation components and simplifying manufacturing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the elastic modulus and geometric parameters of the bellows structure to achieve tolerance compensation. By carefully selecting the material properties and dimensional parameters of the bellows, the design allows the structure to deform within acceptable ranges to accommodate manufacturing variations, providing sealing performance without adding complex compensation mechanisms
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 solution ensures reliable seal-tight installation and removal of the filter module, compensates for component tolerances, and simplifies the installation process by using a grab handle for locking and unlocking, while maintaining a secure seal without additional tolerance compensation components.
Implementation Method 1
a circumferentially extending first sealing element which is arranged on an exterior side of the frame wall of the fastening frame
Implementation Method 2
a second sealing element for sealing between raw side and clean side arranged on the filter element
Data Source
AI summary
A filter module for filtering a fluid is provided with a filter element that has a filter bellows of a filter medium. A fastening frame is connected to the filter element and has a frame wall enclosing circumferentially at least partially a rim of the filter element. A circumferentially extending first sealing element is arranged on an exterior side of the frame wall. The fastening frame has at least one locking element on an exterior side. A second sealing element seals the raw side and the clean side relative to each other, and can be guided into a sealing position upon locking at least one locking element in the installation position.