Modular Fluid Filter Assemblies with Selective Boss Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtration systems are inflexible and costly due to their fixed form factor, which limits the ability to adjust filtration levels according to changing fluid flow conditions or specific application needs, leading to inefficient filtration performance and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid filtration system comprising discrete filter housing assemblies with mount bodies that can be selectively connected to achieve desired flow characteristics, featuring a seal arrangement that maintains a sealed interface at an acute angle, allowing for quick configuration and serviceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed form factor filtration system is used, then the system structure is simple and manufacturing cost is low, but the adaptability to different filtration needs and flow conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration system is divided into multiple discrete filter housing assemblies that can be independently selected and configured. Each housing assembly can be connected in series to create customized filtration trains based on specific application requirements, allowing the system to adapt to different filtration needs without requiring a completely different fixed design.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter housing assemblies are designed with universal connection features and standardized interfaces that allow the same basic housing design to serve multiple functions and applications. The housings can be configured in different arrangements (series, parallel, or combinations) to meet various flow rates and filtration requirements, making the system multi-functional and highly adaptable.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed form factor filtration system is used, then the initial manufacturing cost is low, but the maintenance cost and operational flexibility increase over time
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses modular filter housing assemblies that can be independently manufactured and then assembled into complete filtration systems. This segmentation allows for standardized manufacturing of individual components at low cost, while the flexibility to configure different numbers and types of housings provides operational flexibility without requiring expensive custom manufacturing for each application.
3Reliability
If discrete filter housings are connected in series, then the filtration performance can be customized, but the sealing reliability and maintenance difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter housing assemblies incorporate universal sealing interfaces and standardized connection mechanisms that ensure reliable sealing between housings while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly. The consistent interface design across all housings allows for quick maintenance and replacement of individual units without affecting the entire system, combining sealing reliability with maintenance ease.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable configuration modular fluid filter assembly includes one or more discrete filter housing assemblies that each include a mount body constructed to support a cap and a filter sleeve. A plurality of bosses are formed on radially outward facing sides of the mount body and are each discretely selectable to fluidly connect the discrete mount body to one another to provide a desired flow characteristic of the discrete filter assembly arrangement. Preferably, each discrete filter assembly includes a seal arrangement disposed between the cap and the mount body and which orients the sealing interface therebetween at an acute angle relative to an axis of rotation of the cap relative to the mount body when the cap and mount body are engaged with one another.