Spin-On Filter Nut Plate Structure for Anti-Rotation Mounting
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spin-on filter assemblies face challenges in securely mounting and preventing rotation of components, which can lead to inefficiencies in axial and radial force absorption, affecting the filtration process in fluid and lubrication systems.
Innovation Solution
A fluid filter assembly design featuring a housing with a nut plate and protrusions that engage the inner surface to prevent rotation, along with a seal member for secure engagement, enhancing the assembly's stability and filtration efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional spin-on filter connection is used to mount the filter to the fluid circuit, then the filter can be installed and removed easily, but the connection cannot effectively absorb axial and radial forces, leading to mounting instability
Solution Approach 1:
The connection structure is divided into multiple functional segments: the threaded connection portion for mounting, the flange portion for sealing and positioning, and the protrusions for preventing rotation. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function effectively, improving overall mounting stability without requiring a completely complex new design
Solution Approach 2:
The connection structure extends beyond simple axial threading by adding radial protrusions that engage with the housing bore. This multi-dimensional engagement (axial threading plus radial protrusion engagement) allows the connection to absorb both axial and radial forces, transforming a one-dimensional connection into a multi-dimensional secure mounting system
2Reliability
If the nut plate is allowed to rotate relative to the housing, then the assembly can be adjusted or disassembled, but rotation during operation causes misalignment and reduces filtration efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The protrusions on the nut plate are designed to preliminarily prevent rotation by engaging with the housing bore before any rotational misalignment can occur. This pre-prevented rotation ensures the filter element remains properly aligned with the fluid circuit, maintaining filtration efficiency throughout operation
Solution Approach 2:
The protrusions act as intermediary elements between the nut plate and the housing bore. They provide the necessary constraint against rotation while allowing the threaded connection to remain adjustable. The seal member also serves as an intermediary that maintains sealing without restricting the threaded mounting operation
3Reliability
If the nut plate is securely mounted to prevent rotation, then filtration efficiency improves, but the assembly process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The nut plate integrates multiple functions into a single component: it provides the threaded mounting surface, the flange for sealing and positioning, and the protrusions for preventing rotation. This merging of functions into one piece rather than multiple separate components simplifies the assembly process while achieving the desired secure mounting and rotation prevention
Solution Approach 2:
The nut plate is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously performs mounting, sealing, positioning, and rotation prevention. This universal design approach allows a single component to achieve multiple objectives that would otherwise require separate parts, reducing assembly complexity while improving reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A filter assembly includes a housing, a proximal end cap, and a nut plate. The housing defines a longitudinal axis and includes an inner surface surrounding the longitudinal axis. The proximal end cap is disposed within the housing and defines a central aperture. The nut plate is disposed within the housing and includes a flange portion and an outer wall. The flange portion is disposed within the central aperture. The outer wall includes a plurality of protrusions disposed about the longitudinal axis. At least one of the plurality of protrusions engages the inner surface to prevent rotation of the nut plate relative to the housing.