One-Piece Combination Anti-Drain Back and Relief Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spin-on fluid filters for internal combustion engines have complex designs with numerous non-value adding components and assembly processes that complicate the filtration function, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
A simplified design incorporating a one-piece combination dual valve element that integrates anti-drain back and relief valve functions, using resilient materials and interference fits to reduce components and assembly steps, replacing traditional components like bottom spring supports, relief valve housings, and end caps with molded end seal elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional multi-component designs are used for spin-on fluid filters, then reliable filtration function is achieved, but device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (anti-drain back valve, relief valve, end cap, and filter element) into a single integrated component. The anti-drain back valve and relief valve are molded as one piece with the end cap, eliminating the need for separate valve housings and multiple assembly steps while maintaining all necessary filtration and pressure relief functions
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated component performs multiple functions simultaneously: filtration through the filter element, pressure relief through the relief valve, and anti-drain back functionality through the valve mechanism. This multi-functional design reduces the overall system complexity while maintaining reliable operation
2Reliability
If traditional assembly processes with multiple components are used, then functional requirements are met, but manufacturing complexity and assembly time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the anti-drain back valve, relief valve, and end cap into a single molded component, reducing the number of assembly steps from multiple component installations to a single installation process. This significantly simplifies manufacturing while maintaining all required functions
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated component is designed with distinct functional zones (filtration area, valve mechanism area, sealing areas) that are molded as one piece, allowing for optimized manufacturing processes while maintaining functional independence of each feature
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
The simplified design reduces component count, enhances flow characteristics, and minimizes assembly complexity, providing efficient lubricant flow and improved performance by eliminating unnecessary parts and processes, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined filtration system.
Implementation Method 1
A combination dual valve element integrating an anti-drain back and a relief valve is made from a resilient material and disposed in a slotted end seal
Implementation Method 2
The support lugs of the combination dual valve element are adapted for providing an interference fit with the slotted end seal
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid filter and an end cap of the fluid filter are described. The filter may be a spin on oil filter, which includes a combination dual valve element defining an integral anti-drain back valve and an integral relief valve, a retainer assembly for maintaining the combination dual valve element in position in the end cap, relative to the filter. The combination dual valve element includes an ADB sealing lip forming an anti-drain back valve portion, and an RV sealing lip forming a relief valve portion.