Liquid Filter Module Securing Element Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing liquid filter modules with bayonet locks for securing bypass valves are structurally complex, expensive, and increase storage and logistics costs, requiring additional assembly work and separate sealing plugs when a bypass valve is not desired.

Innovation Solution

A simpler securing element, such as a sleeve or positioning pin, is used to secure the built-in part within the liquid filter module, eliminating the need for complex fastening technologies like bayonet locks and allowing existing components to serve additional functions, thereby reducing design effort and manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a bayonet lock is used to secure the bypass valve on the intermediate piece, then the valve is firmly fixed, but the structure becomes complex and expensive with additional components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing reliabilityVSAvoidfastening structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the fastening function with the intermediate piece itself by integrating a threaded bore directly into it. The closure element is screwed directly into the intermediate piece, merging the fastening mechanism with the structural component, thereby eliminating the need for separate bayonet lock assemblies while maintaining secure fixation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The intermediate piece is designed with multi-functionality: it serves both as a structural spacer and as a fastening element. The threaded bore in the intermediate piece allows it to perform both structural support and valve securing functions, reducing the need for additional specialized components

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

2Reliability

If a bayonet lock is used for fixing the valve, then the valve is securely mounted, but assembly and disassembly require additional work and time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting securityVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the threaded fastening mechanism directly into the intermediate piece, the patent reduces the number of assembly steps. The closure element is screwed directly into the intermediate piece's threaded bore, eliminating the need for separate bayonet lock assembly steps and reducing overall assembly time while maintaining secure mounting

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If a separate sealing plug is installed when a bypass valve is not desired, then sealing is achieved, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesealing reliabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The closure element serves multiple functions: it acts as both a sealing component and a fastening element. By integrating the sealing function into the closure element that is already screwed into the intermediate piece, the patent eliminates the need for separate sealing plugs, reducing part count and manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable sealing

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the sealing function with the closure element. The closure element itself provides the sealing interface when screwed into the intermediate piece, combining what would traditionally be separate sealing and fastening components into a single integrated element, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Ease of manufacture

If existing components are used for additional functions, then design effort and manufacturing costs are reduced, but the components must handle additional loads and stresses

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidcomponent load capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The intermediate piece is designed with multi-functionality from the outset, incorporating a threaded bore to serve both structural and fastening purposes. This design consideration ensures that the intermediate piece can handle both its structural load and the additional fastening loads without requiring separate components, maintaining strength while reducing manufacturing cost

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

Data Source

PatentEP3454965B1Liquid filter module
Publication Date: 2020.05.06 MAHLE INT GMBH
  • EP3454965B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3454965B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a liquid filter module (1) comprising a filter device (4) and a heat exchanger (3) that is coupled to the filter device (4) via an intermediate piece (2) which is provided with at least one liquid duct (5) and a receiving channel (6) for accommodating an insertable part (7), the receiving channel (6) intersecting the liquid duct (5). As essential features of the invention, a channel (8) is provided which intersects the receiving channel (6) and inside which a securing element (9) is placed, said securing element (9) immobilizes the insertable part (7), and the insertable part (7) is designed as a closing element (7') or as a valve (7").