Multi-Positional Fuel Filter Connector Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional in-tank fuel filters require multiple designs with different inlet ports and retainer orientations, leading to increased production costs and limited flexibility in accommodating various fuel pump configurations.
Innovation Solution
A multi-positional in-tank fuel filter with integrated plastic retainer locations and a connector that allows for infinite or multiple finite positioning of the retention post, using a recessed channel or slots with a funnel-like design and anti-rotational positioning tabs to secure the filter to the fuel pump, enabling a single filter design to fit multiple orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple filter designs with different inlet ports and retainer orientations are produced, then compatibility with various fuel pump configurations is improved, but production costs and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed with a recessed channel that can accommodate retention posts at multiple orientations (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°), allowing a single filter design to interface with various fuel pump configurations. This multi-functional connector eliminates the need for multiple specialized filter designs while maintaining full compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism is segmented into discrete positioning features within the recessed channel, including定位lugs and retention features at specific angular positions. This segmentation allows the single connector to provide multiple discrete mounting orientations while maintaining a unified structure.
2Device complexity
If a single filter design is used for multiple orientations, then production costs and device complexity are reduced, but secure attachment and precise positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connector incorporates localized retention features at specific positions within the recessed channel, including engagement lugs and interference fit features oriented at precise angular positions. These localized features ensure secure attachment at each discrete orientation while maintaining the simplicity of a single unified connector structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The recessed channel is pre-formed with built-in alignment and retention features during connector manufacturing. The定位lugs and engagement features are integrated into the connector structure before assembly, ensuring proper positioning and secure attachment without requiring additional components or complex assembly procedures.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional sock style filters with fixed retainer orientations are used, then manufacturing is simpler, but flexibility in accommodating different fuel pump configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector integrates multiple retention orientations within a single molded structure, allowing the same filter design to accommodate various fuel pump configurations. This universal connector design maintains ease of manufacture through single-piece molding while providing the flexibility to interface with different pump orientations and retention post positions.
Data Source
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Figure 5A~6
AI summary
The present invention provides one filter with multiple retention locations integrated into a plastic connector that is attached to the filter for connecting the filter to a pump inlet by means of a retention post. A sock style filter is disclosed that incorporates a channel or a flat tab in the periphery of the plastic outlet port for providing a finite or infinite number of locations for retention of a post on a pump or other connection to allow for multiple alignment positioning of the filter with respect to the mating parts such as the pump body, fuel pump assembly, module can or fuel tank.