Fuel Filter End Cap Closure Mechanism for Contaminant Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
During the removal and reinstallation of fuel filter elements in fuel supply systems, contaminants can enter the filter through open apertures, potentially causing damage by being reintroduced into the system on the filtered side.
Innovation Solution
A fuel filter end cap with a closure mechanism featuring flaps that form a star-shaped slit pattern, which creates a seal when the filter is installed and closes when removed to prevent contaminant entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the fuel filter element is removed from the housing for replacement or servicing, then the fuel filter can be serviced or replaced, but contaminating particles may enter the fuel filter through the open aperture
Solution Approach 1:
The closure mechanism is pre-configured to automatically close the aperture when the fuel filter element is removed from the housing. This preliminary action prevents contaminants from entering the filter element during the servicing interval, eliminating the need for manual intervention to protect the filter interior.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure mechanism operates automatically based on the presence or absence of the connecting portion, without requiring external control or manual operation. When the connecting portion is removed, the closure autonomously transitions to the closed position, and when reinstalled, it automatically opens, providing self-service functionality.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a closure mechanism is added to block the aperture during removal, then contaminant entry is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The closure is constructed from a flexible resilient material that forms a diaphragm with integrated flaps. This flexible membrane structure provides the closing function without requiring complex mechanical assemblies, motors, or multiple moving parts. The thin film approach maintains structural simplicity while achieving the contaminant prevention function.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure diaphragm is segmented into multiple flaps that can independently fold and move. This segmentation allows each flap to respond to the insertion or removal of the connecting portion, creating a star-shaped opening pattern when open and providing effective sealing when closed. The segmented structure achieves complex functionality through simple, modular elements.
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
Minimizes the entry of contaminants into the fuel filter element during servicing by maintaining a fuel-tight seal, reducing the risk of system damage from re-introduced contaminants.
Implementation Method 1
the resilient nature of the flaps causes them to create a fuel tight seal around the connecting portion of the fuel filter housing
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
AI summary
The invention relates to a fuel filter element end cap (8) provided on a fuel filter element (10). The end cap (8) has an aperture allowing connection of the fuel filter element (10) to a connecting portion of a fuel filter housing in a fuel delivery system of a vehicle. A closure (12) is provided at the aperture and is actuable between a closed position, in which the aperture is substantially blocked, and an open position, in which the aperture is substantially open. The closure (12) is actuable from the closed position to the open position by insertion of the connection portion of the fuel filter housing into the aperture and from the open position to the closed position by removal of the connecting portion of the fuel filter housing from the aperture.