Flange Unit for Water Filter Positioning and Detachable Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current filter units for water treatment devices lack simplicity in integrating additional functions such as proper positioning, easy removal, and closure, particularly for filled units, which complicates their implementation and increases costs and space requirements.
Innovation Solution
A flange unit that includes a base plate with a central recess for the suction head, a connecting unit for detachable attachment to the water reservoir, a closure element, and a handle unit with movable arm elements for enhanced carrying and positioning, along with an end position display to ensure correct installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If additional functions (positioning, removal, closure) are integrated into the filter unit, then practicability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (positioning, removal, closure) into a single integrated flange unit structure. The base plate with central recess provides positioning, the connecting unit enables detachable attachment for removal, and the closure element seals the recess - all within one unified component that attaches to the filter unit, thereby enhancing practicability without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The flange unit is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs positioning (base plate with central recess), attachment/detachment (connecting unit), and sealing (closure element). This universal design allows a single component to fulfill multiple requirements that would traditionally need separate elements, improving ease of operation while controlling complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are provided in separate components, then each function can be optimized, but space and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functional elements (positioning feature, connecting mechanism, closure element) are merged into a single flange unit that attaches to the filter unit. This integration consolidates what would otherwise be separate components into one space-efficient unit, providing functional versatility without increasing the overall space footprint of the filter assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The flange unit serves as a universal multi-functional attachment that provides positioning, connection, and closure capabilities in a single compact component. This multi-functionality approach allows the same structure to fulfill multiple roles, reducing the total volume required compared to having separate dedicated components for each function
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functions are provided in separate components, then each function can be optimized, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
By combining multiple functions into a single flange unit, the patent reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and inventoried. This consolidation typically lowers manufacturing costs through economies of scale, reduced assembly operations, and simplified supply chain management, while still providing the full range of functions through the integrated design
4Ease of operation
If the filter unit is designed for easy removal, then maintenance is simplified, but connection stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting unit is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to provide stable, secure attachment during normal operation while enabling easy detachment when needed. The connection mechanism likely incorporates features such as snap-fit elements, bayonet mounts, or quick-release latches that maintain firm connection under operational conditions but can be quickly released with simple manual action, thus achieving both connection stability and removal ease
Data Source
AI summary
A flange unit for a filter unit for positioning in a water treatment device, the water treatment device including a water reservoir and a suction head. The flange unit includes a base plate having a central recess for accommodating a filling piece of the suction head, a connecting unit for detachably connecting the flange unit to an inner side of the water reservoir, a closure element for closing the recess, and a handle unit for detaching the connecting unit from the flange holding device and for carrying the filter unit.