Filter Element With Integrated Outlet Pipe for Lower-Cost Assembly

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter devices with replaceable elements are complex and costly to manufacture due to the need for separate components like a filter head and outlet pipe, which are not replaced with the element.

Innovation Solution

Integrating the outlet pipe into the filter element, eliminating the need for a separate filter head, and using a simplified structure with annular guides and support tubes made of lightweight materials to facilitate assembly and reduce manufacturing costs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate filter head and outlet pipe are used in the filter device, then the structural integrity and functionality are maintained, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The outlet pipe is integrated directly into the filter element, eliminating the need for a separate filter head and outlet pipe assembly. The filter element now serves dual functions: filtration and fluid conduit, reducing the number of components while maintaining functionality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter element is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the filtration medium and the outlet pipe for fluid discharge. This multi-functional design simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining all necessary functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a separate filter head and outlet pipe are used in the filter device, then the functional requirements are met, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional requirementsVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By combining the outlet pipe function into the filter element itself, the number of parts to be manufactured, assembled, and inventoried is reduced, directly lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining all functional requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet pipe function is extracted from the separate filter head assembly and integrated into the filter element, eliminating the need for complex multi-component manufacturing processes and reducing overall production complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Manufacturing precision

If tight manufacturing tolerances are applied to the outlet pipe and filter head, then the assembly precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly precisionVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Integrating the outlet pipe into the filter element eliminates the need for precision alignment and assembly between separate components, thereby reducing manufacturing tolerances requirements while maintaining assembly precision

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 simplified structure allows for lower production costs and easier assembly, enabling the use of inexpensive materials and reducing the need for tight manufacturing tolerances, while maintaining effective filtration performance.

Implementation Method 1

the filter elements are used in such filtering devices for the maintenance of fluids

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

An adhesive may be used to secure the received ends in the slot guide

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS12350607B2Filter device
Publication Date: 2025.07.08 FILTERTECHN
  • US12350607B2 patent drawing
  • US12350607B2 patent drawing
  • US12350607B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A filter device has a filter housing (1), in which a replaceable filter element (7) is accommodated. The filter housing has a cover part (2), wherein the element material (9) of the filter element (7) extends between two end caps (13, 14) of the filter element. The filter housing (1) is formed as an outlet pipe (3). The element material and the outlet pipe extend between both end caps (13, 14).