Liquid Filter Radial Lock Mechanism for Rapid Element Exchange
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid filters require complex thread connections for exchanging filter elements, which are time-consuming and prone to contamination during the process.
Innovation Solution
A liquid filter design featuring a filter element with an extension part and a lock groove, coupled with a lock device at the housing cup that uses radially movable lock means to securely engage and disengage from the lock groove, allowing for quick and reliable exchange of the filter element without the need for thread releases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a thread connection is used for exchanging filter elements, then the filter element can be securely attached, but the exchange process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into discrete lock means (such as lugs or arms) that can be independently actuated. Each lock means can engage with corresponding features on the filter element, allowing for modular and quick engagement without requiring complex threading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock means are designed to be movable between engaged and disengaged states, enabling quick transition during filter element exchange. The dynamic locking mechanism allows operators to rapidly secure or release filter elements without the time-consuming process of threading and unthreading connections.
2Reliability
If a thread connection is used for exchanging filter elements, then the filter element can be securely attached, but the exchange process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into discrete lock means (such as lugs or arms) that can be independently actuated. Each lock means can engage with corresponding features on the filter element, allowing for modular and quick engagement without requiring complex threading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex threading operation is extracted and replaced with a simpler locking mechanism. The lock means directly engage with the filter element through features like lock grooves, eliminating the need for threaded connections and significantly simplifying the overall exchange mechanism.
3Ease of manufacture
If a traditional drainage socket with thread connection is used, then liquid can be drained, but the thread connection requires release for filter element exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage socket functionality is merged with the locking mechanism. The lock means serve dual purposes: they secure the filter element in place and simultaneously control the drainage function. This integration eliminates the need for separate thread connections, allowing filter element exchange without requiring release of drainage connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock means are designed to perform multiple functions: mechanical locking of the filter element, control of the drainage socket, and provision of a quick-release mechanism. This multi-functionality simplifies the overall system and improves ease of operation during filter element exchange.
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid filter has a filter housing with a housing cup. A filter element of the liquid filter has a filter medium annularly surrounding a longitudinal axis of the filter element. The filter element has an extension part with lock groove. A lock device arranged at the housing cup has a lock element movable radially to the longitudinal axis. The lock element engages the lock groove in a locked state of the lock device and is disengaged in a release state. A filter element for the liquid filter has a filter medium annularly surrounding a longitudinal axis and an extension part with lock groove with rounded cross section. The lock groove is engaged by a lock element, movable radially relative to the longitudinal axis, of a lock device of a housing cup of the liquid filter in a locked state of the lock device and disengaged in a release state.