Keyed Spin-On Filter Element With Retractible Shroud
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel filter systems lack a secure mechanism to ensure only authorized filters are used, as they rely solely on threaded connections which can be compromised by unauthorized filters.
Innovation Solution
A keyed spin-on filter design featuring radially offset keyed fingers and a latching mechanism with a retractable shroud and locking ring, which interacts with a filter head to prevent unauthorized filter attachment by using axially and circumferentially offset keyed passages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a threaded connection is used for filter attachment, then the filter can be easily installed and removed, but unauthorized filters can compromise the connection and access the fluid stream
Solution Approach 1:
The filter element incorporates keyed fingers with specific geometric profiles that asymmetrically engage with corresponding keyed passages in the adapter assembly. This asymmetric key-way geometry ensures that only filters with matching keyed features can be installed, preventing unauthorized filters from compromising the threaded connection while maintaining ease of installation for authorized filters
2Reliability
If a latching mechanism with keyed fingers is added, then unauthorized filter attachment is prevented, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The keyed fingers are integrated directly into the filter element body as a unified structure, and the keyed passages are formed as integral features of the adapter assembly. This merging of the locking features into the main components eliminates separate locking mechanisms, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable authorization control
Solution Approach 2:
The keyed fingers and passages work together in a self-latching manner where the geometry of the keyed features automatically prevents unauthorized filter installation without requiring additional actuating mechanisms. The threaded connection and keyed features cooperate to provide automatic authorization verification, reducing the need for complex external control systems
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter element for installation in a filter element adapter assembly with a keyed retractable shroud for covering external threads configured to receive the filter element is provided. The filter element includes an end cap having one or more keyed fingers protruding axially and radially therefrom, to engage with keyed passageways on the retractable shroud.