Self-locking Filter Manifold Asymmetric Flange Design
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filters in manifolds can become dislodged due to pressure from the fluid being filtered, leading to spillage and interruptions in high-precision processes such as semiconductor manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
The design of a filter with a flange geometry having major and minor axes of differing lengths, combined with a stopper feature, allows the filter to be self-locking when rotated within the manifold, preventing dislodgment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a filter is secured in a manifold by attachments such as flanges, then the filter can be easily installed and removed for regular changing, but the filter can become dislodged from the manifold due to pressure from the fluid being filtered
Solution Approach 1:
The flange is designed with asymmetric geometry featuring a major axis and minor axis of different lengths, creating an orientation-dependent fit within the manifold slot. This asymmetric shape allows the filter to be inserted in a specific orientation and then locked in place when rotated, preventing dislodgment while maintaining ease of installation and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter-flange assembly incorporates a rotational movement capability, transitioning from an insertion orientation to a locked orientation. This dynamic movement allows the filter to be easily inserted initially, then rotated to engage retention features that prevent further movement and secure the filter against fluid pressure.
2Ease of repair
If the filter can be easily removed for regular changing, then maintenance is simplified, but the filter may become dislodged during ordinary operations
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is designed with an asymmetric flange geometry and stopper feature that, when properly rotated into position, preliminarily secures the filter against dislodgment before fluid flow begins. The rotation action pre-engages the retention features, ensuring the filter remains secure during operations while still allowing easy removal when needed for maintenance.
3Reliability
If the filter is secured with a self-locking mechanism requiring rotation, then the filter cannot become dislodged during operations, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric flange geometry and slot configuration work together to enable the filter to self-lock automatically upon rotation. The stopper feature on the flange engages with the retention feature in the slot, creating a self-securing mechanism that requires no additional locking components or complex assembly steps, thereby maintaining simplicity while ensuring reliable retention.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter that is self-locking to a filter manifold includes a flange having a major axis and a minor axis in plan view, and that is longer along the major axis than the minor axis. The filter further includes a stopper on the major axis, that can contact a filter manifold when the filter is inserted into the manifold and rotated. The filter can be used with a filter manifold having a slot with an opening having a width greater than the length of the minor axis and smaller than the length along the major axis of the flange, and past the opening, has sufficient width to accommodate the length of the major axis. This arrangement allows the flange to be inserted into the slot in an insertion orientation, but does not permit the flange to pass through the opening of the slot when it is in a locking position.