Semi-Rigid Filter Frame Mechanism for Simplified Bag Replacement

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional filter assembly replacement processes are complex and time-consuming due to the need to remove external components for securing filter bags, which complicates the replacement of filter bags within a housing.

Innovation Solution

A semi-rigid frame mechanism that is flexibly movable and can be quickly snapped into and out of engagement with the housing to secure a pocket filter, allowing for self-sealing and self-supporting functionality without additional components, enabling easier filter bag replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If external components (nuts, bolts, lock bars, clips, tie rods, springs, and clamps) are used to secure the filter bag within the housing, then the filter bag can be reliably retained, but the replacement process becomes more complex and time-consuming due to the need to remove these external components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter bag retentionVSAvoidreplacement process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame integrates both support and securing functions into a single component structure. The frame includes a first portion that supports the filter bag and a second portion that secures the filter bag to the housing, eliminating the need for separate external components like nuts, bolts, and clamps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame is designed to be flexibly movable between a first position (unconstrained) and a second position (constrained). This dynamic capability allows the frame to be easily inserted and removed from the housing by flexing it into the constrained position, simplifying the replacement process while maintaining secure retention during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If conventional external components are used to secure the filter bag, then the filter bag can be held in place, but the overall replacement process becomes slower due to additional steps required to remove and install these components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter bag retentionVSAvoidfilter bag replacement speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The frame combines support and securing functions into one integrated component, eliminating the multiple separate external components that would otherwise need to be individually installed and removed during replacement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The flexibly movable frame can be quickly transitioned between constrained and unconstrained states, enabling rapid installation and removal without the time-consuming process of assembling and disassembling multiple fastening components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Stability of the object's composition

If a rigid frame is used to support the filter element, then structural stability is improved, but the ability to quickly engage and disengage from the housing is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveframe structural stabilityVSAvoidengagement and disengagement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The frame is designed with flexible movability between constrained and unconstrained positions, allowing it to be easily inserted and removed from the housing while maintaining structural stability during operation when in the constrained position.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The frame's rigidity parameter is dynamically adjusted through its ability to transition between constrained (rigid for stability) and unconstrained (flexible for easy movement) states, resolving the contradiction between structural stability and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 semi-rigid frame mechanism simplifies the filter bag replacement process by allowing for quicker engagement and disengagement, reducing complexity and eliminating the need for external components, thus enhancing the efficiency of filter assembly maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

a semi-rigid member having opposite ends that are each secured to the mounting portion of the mating frame and a flexible portion between the opposite ends that is flexibly moveable to constrain the semi-rigid member at the opposite ends

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

When in the constrained position, the semi-rigid planar member compresses the first end of the filter media against the housing for holding the filter media in place

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCompression: Compression

Data Source

PatentUS11344833B2Filter securing mechanism and attachment method
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 PARKER INTANGIBLES LLC
  • US11344833B2 patent drawing
  • US11344833B2 patent drawing
  • US11344833B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A securing mechanism and a method for securing a filter element within a housing may be implemented in a pocket-type or cartridge-type filter assembly. The securing mechanism includes a mating frame having a retaining portion extending into the filter element within the housing for retaining the filter element within the housing, and a mounting portion mounted to the housing. The securing mechanism includes a semi-rigid member having opposite ends that are each secured to the mounting portion of the mating frame and a flexible portion between the opposite ends that is flexibly moveable to constrain the semi-rigid member at the opposite ends. The semi-rigid member is pressed against the mating frame to hold the filter element in place when the semi-rigid member is constrained.