Filter Nozzle Latching Mechanism for Tool-Free Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter nozzles are difficult to remove without damaging the nozzle holder and require complex disassembly processes, often leaving parts behind and necessitating additional tools.
Innovation Solution
A filter nozzle design featuring a stop and securing mechanism with a latching element and accessible actuation section allows for easy removal by snapping back into the filter nozzle holder, eliminating the need for forceful disassembly and tools, with ergonomic actuation and a collar-shaped stop for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a securing mechanism with a latching element is provided to prevent detachment during operation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching element is segmented into distinct functional parts: a latching projection for engagement, an actuation section for user interaction, and a connecting section for mechanical linkage. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall mechanism simple and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching element automatically engages with the receptacle when the filter nozzle is inserted, requiring no manual intervention for securing. The spring-loaded design provides automatic pre-tensioning and latching, making the system self-securing while maintaining simplicity.
2Ease of operation
If the filter nozzle is removed by hitting with a hammer, then removal is achieved, but the nozzle holder or filter device is damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation section serves as an intermediary interface between the user and the latching mechanism. By providing a dedicated pressing surface, it mediates the user's removal action, converting simple pressing force into effective latching release without requiring harmful external forces like hammering.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical impact method (hammering) is replaced with a controlled pressing action on the actuation section. This substitutes a precise, low-force mechanical interaction for a high-force impact method, eliminating damage while achieving the same removal goal.
3Reliability
If the latching element is not accessible from the outside, then secure locking is achieved, but removal requires additional tools and complex disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the latching element completely inaccessible for security, the design inverts the approach by providing an actuation section that is accessible from the outside. This allows the latching mechanism to remain secure during operation while enabling simple external actuation for removal, reversing the traditional security-accessibility trade-off.
4Reliability
If the actuation section is arranged below the stop, then secure engagement is maintained, but accessibility for manual actuation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation section is positioned in a different spatial dimension relative to the stop - specifically, radially outward from the central axis while maintaining axial positioning below the stop. This dimensional arrangement allows the actuation section to be accessible from the outside for manual operation while the stop maintains its secure engagement function above it.
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter nozzle (1) for insertion into a filter nozzle receptacle (4) has a stop (37) for bearing against the filter nozzle receptacle (4) when the filter nozzle (1) is inserted, and a locking mechanism for securing the filter nozzle (1) in the filter nozzle receptacle (4). The locking mechanism comprises at least one locking element (32, 33, 34) which has a locking projection (34) arranged below the stop (37) in the insertion direction (P3). This projection is designed to engage with a section of the filter nozzle (1) when the filter nozzle (1) is inserted into the filter nozzle receptacle (4). The locking element (32, 33, 34) has at least one actuating section (33) accessible from the outside when the filter nozzle is inserted.