Dual-Element Gas Filter Sealing Structure for Correct Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas filter systems face challenges in achieving effective sealing between two filter elements and a common housing, which can lead to improper use if only one filter element is present or if unsuitable elements are used.
Innovation Solution
A gas filter system design where the first end cap of the outer filter element has a protruding sealing section that seals against the inner filter element, and the third end cap has a radially protruding sealing segment that seals against both the outer filter element and the housing, allowing for a single sealing interface at one axial end, ensuring proper assembly and preventing misuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sealing interfaces are used between filter elements and housing, then sealing reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sealing functions into a single integrated sealing structure. The sealing element is designed to simultaneously seal between the first filter element and the housing, and between the second filter element and the housing, through a unified sealing arrangement that performs multiple sealing tasks at one location rather than requiring separate sealing interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing element is designed with multi-functionality to handle multiple sealing requirements. It serves as both the seal between the first filter element and housing, and the seal between the second filter element and housing, making a single component perform multiple sealing functions that would traditionally require separate sealing mechanisms.
2Reliability
If sealing structures are added to prevent improper use, then reliability is improved, but ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing element is pre-configured with specific geometric features and positioning structures that guide proper assembly before the actual sealing function is activated. The design includes preliminary alignment features that ensure correct installation orientation and position, preventing improper assembly from occurring in the first place rather than requiring complex detection or correction mechanisms.
3Device complexity
If the first end cap is closed, then sealing is simplified, but adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the entire first end cap closed or open, the patent applies sealing functionality locally at specific regions where needed. The sealing element is positioned to provide sealing only at the necessary interfaces between filter elements and housing, while other portions of the end cap remain open for gas flow, achieving selective sealing that maintains both simplicity and adaptability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention refers to a Gas filter system (10; 10') comprising - an outer filter element (20) having a first filter medium (22) arranged between a first end cap (24) and a second end cap (26); and - an inner filter (30) element having a second filter medium (32) arranged between a third end cap (34) and a fourth end cap (36); the first filter medium (22) being arrangeable to surround the second filter medium (32); the first and third end caps (24, 34) being open; wherein the first end cap (24) has a first sealing section (42); wherein the third end cap (34) has an annular sealing segment (40), which protrudes radially outwardly; and wherein the sealing segment (40) has a first sealing surface (44) for sealing abutment of the first sealing section (42) and a second sealing surface (48) for sealing abutment against a housing (12).