Fuel Filter Dust Separator with Pressure Relief Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel system filters do not effectively address the issue of contaminant buildup, leading to premature fuel flow shutdown during refueling due to pressure buildup within the filter carrier, which can result in an annoying user experience and inefficient fuel filling cycles.
Innovation Solution
A dump-able dust filter system with a filter assembly and cap that allows for easy removal and replacement of contaminants, combined with a pressure relief valve to regulate pressure within the filter carrier, preventing premature fuel flow shutdown.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional fuel system filter is used, then fuel filtration is provided, but pressure buildup occurs within the filter carrier leading to premature fuel flow shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the contaminant accumulation problem from the filter system by providing a removable filter assembly that can be easily taken out and replaced. The filter assembly is designed as a separate, detachable component from the filter carrier, allowing contaminants to be removed by simply replacing the filter assembly rather than draining the entire fuel system. This resolves the pressure buildup issue by enabling periodic maintenance without interrupting overall system operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a disposable filter assembly that can be discarded after contaminant accumulation and replaced with a new one. The filter assembly is designed as a low-cost, replaceable component rather than a permanent part of the fuel system. This allows the system to recover by simply installing a new filter assembly, maintaining fuel flow continuity without complex maintenance procedures.
2Ease of repair
If a removable filter assembly is implemented, then ease of maintenance is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fuel filtration system into three distinct components: a reusable filter carrier, a removable filter assembly, and a filter cap. The filter assembly contains the actual filtering elements and can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows maintenance to be performed by simply detaching and replacing the filter assembly, which is designed with external mounting features for easy installation and removal without affecting other system components.
3Reliability
If pressure relief valve is added, then fuel flow shutdown is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-regulating pressure relief valve that automatically opens when pressure within the filter carrier exceeds a predetermined threshold during fuel filling operations. The valve is spring-loaded and self-actuating, requiring no external control systems or additional components. When pressure builds up, the spring automatically opens the valve to relieve pressure, preventing premature fuel flow shutdown. The valve closes automatically when pressure normalizes, providing continuous protection without user intervention.
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
The system extends the time before pressure buildup triggers fuel filling equipment shutdown, ensuring a complete fuel filling cycle and reducing the need for frequent filter replacements.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure relief valve formed at least in part in the filter carrier, the pressure relief valve configured to relieve pressure within a hollow region of the filter carrier when a threshold pressure is exceeded
Data Source
AI summary
A number of variations may include a product comprising a dump-able filter comprising: a filter body; a filter assembly, wherein the filter assembly is seated in the filter body; and a filter cap, wherein the filter cap attaches to the filter body and encloses at least a portion of the filter assembly. In some embodiments the filter assembly may include a filter carrier that includes a pressure relief valve.