Replaceable Filter Element With Integrated Outlet Pipe

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing filter devices with replaceable elements are complex and costly to manufacture, with permanent components like outlet pipes that do not need to be replaced with the element.

Innovation Solution

The filter device integrates the outlet pipe into the filter element, eliminating the need for a separate filter head and simplifying the structure. The outlet pipe is made of lightweight, inexpensive materials and is replaced along with the filter element.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a separate filter head and permanent outlet pipe are used, then the filter device has reliable functional components for the entire lifetime, but the structure becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional reliability of permanent componentsVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The outlet pipe is integrated directly into the filter element as an integral component, eliminating the separate filter head and permanent outlet pipe. The filter element now includes both the filtration media and the outlet pipe structure, reducing the number of separate components while maintaining functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The outlet pipe is now part of the replaceable filter element rather than a permanent component. This allows the use of simpler, less expensive materials for the outlet pipe since it will be replaced along with the filter element during routine maintenance, rather than needing to last the entire lifetime of the filter device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

2Ease of repair

If a separate filter head and outlet pipe are used, then the components can be independently replaced, but the manufacturing cost and structure complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replaceabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element and outlet pipe are manufactured as a single integrated unit, simplifying the manufacturing process by reducing the number of separate components that need to be produced, assembled, and sealed. This integration reduces manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter device is segmented into the replaceable filter element (containing both filtration media and outlet pipe) and the permanent filter housing. This segmentation allows the filter element to be replaced as a complete unit, maintaining ease of repair while simplifying the overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If the outlet pipe is made of lightweight inexpensive materials, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the structural strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing costVSAvoidstructural strength of outlet pipe
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The outlet pipe is designed as part of the disposable filter element rather than a permanent component. This allows the use of lighter, less expensive materials that would not be suitable for permanent installation, since the entire assembly will be replaced during routine maintenance rather than requiring long-term structural durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

This design allows for a significantly cheaper and simpler manufacturing process, reducing costs while maintaining effective filtration performance.

Implementation Method 1

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Implementation Method 2

the filter element as filtrate after flowing through the element material

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250288926A1Replaceable filter element
Publication Date: 2025.09.18 FILTERTECHN
  • US20250288926A1 patent drawing
  • US20250288926A1 patent drawing
  • US20250288926A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A replaceable filter element includes an element material extending between first and second end caps of the replaceable filter element, and a support tube extending on an outside of the element material between the first and second end caps. The second end cap has, on a top face thereof, a flat contact surface which is radially delimited on an outside by a peripheral rim projecting axially towards the first end cap. The peripheral rim has on an inside a latching notch, to which a latching lug of the support tube is configured to be latched, to axially secure the support tube to the second end cap.