Integrated Joint Seal for Air Filter Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air filter elements require an additional joint element to connect the frame to the filtration medium, complicating the assembly process and increasing costs due to the need for a second seal element.
Innovation Solution
A filter element design where the joint element is adapted to connect the frame and filtration medium in a fixed manner, incorporating a single seal element that provides a sealed assembly between the filter medium and the filtration enclosure, simplifying manufacturing and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an additional joint element is used to connect the frame to the filter medium, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The joint element is merged with the seal element into a single integrated component. The joint element includes both connection functions (connecting frame to filter medium) and sealing functions (providing sealed assembly with filtration enclosure), eliminating the need for separate joint and seal elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the frame to the filter medium while also providing the sealing interface with the filtration enclosure. This multi-functional design reduces the total number of components required.
2Reliability
If an additional joint element is used to connect the frame to the filter medium, then the connection reliability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint element and seal element are combined into a single component, reducing the total part count. This consolidation reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need to produce, inventory, and assemble multiple separate elements while maintaining both connection and sealing functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-functional joint element performs both connection and sealing tasks, reducing the bill of materials and assembly steps. This design reduces manufacturing cost while ensuring reliable connection and sealing performance.
3Ease of manufacture
If a single seal element is used, then the manufacturing process is simplified, but the sealing reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The joint element integrates both connection and sealing functions in a single component designed specifically to perform both roles simultaneously, ensuring that sealing reliability is not compromised while simplifying manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint element is engineered to provide both mechanical connection and sealing functions through its integrated structure, maintaining sealing reliability while reducing the number of components and assembly steps.
Data Source
Figure 1~6
Figure 2~7
AI summary
A filter element, for fitting in an air filter housing, comprises a filter medium (12) extending between permeable end faces, a frame (26) at one end and a joint (34). It differs in that the joint fixes the frame to the filter medium and has a portion that provides a seal between the filter medium and the housing. The joint can be located on the front or rear edge of the filter element (11), which is made from corrugated and non-corrugated layers forming circulating channels parallel to a central rod (24) passing through a hole (30) in the frame that is connected to its rim by radial arms (32).