Sliding Filter Element for Hand Tool Sprayer

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users of hand tools, such as portable sprayers, face interruptions and clogging issues due to cumbersome filters that require frequent replacement, leading to disruptions in fluid flow and maintenance downtime.

Innovation Solution

A sprayer assembly with a removable and slidable filter element, featuring a tab extension for easy handling and a sliding attachment interface, allowing for quick filter replacement and minimizing particulate matter buildup.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional filters are used in hand tools, then filtration function is provided, but filter replacement is cumbersome and causes downtime

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter replacement easeVSAvoiddowntime during filter replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The filter assembly is segmented into modular components: a filter holder that attaches to the tank and a separate filter element that can be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation allows the filter element to be quickly changed without replacing the entire filter assembly, reducing maintenance downtime and improving operational ease.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If filters are installed in hand tools, then particulate matter is filtered, but clogging occurs and disrupts fluid flow

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefluid flow continuityVSAvoidclogging and particulate matter buildup
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element is designed with a dynamic support structure that allows it to flex and move slightly during operation. This dynamic capability prevents the filter element from becoming rigid and clogged, as it can adapt to pressure changes and maintain optimal flow characteristics, thereby maintaining fluid flow continuity while still filtering particulate matter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If filter elements are made durable, then filtration performance is maintained, but replacement becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter element durabilityVSAvoidfilter replacement ease
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The filter assembly is divided into a durable filter holder that remains attached to the tank and a replaceable filter element. The holder provides structural strength and secure attachment, while the element can be easily swapped out. This segmentation allows the permanent components to be made durable without increasing the difficulty of replacing consumable parts.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Reliability

If filters are designed for secure attachment, then filtration effectiveness is ensured, but filter removal becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefiltration effectivenessVSAvoidfilter removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment interface uses a dynamic locking mechanism that secures the filter element firmly during operation to ensure filtration effectiveness, but can be easily released with a simple action. This dynamic attachment provides reliable filtration while allowing quick removal and replacement of the filter element.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS20240066544A1Hand tool and filter apparatus
Publication Date: 2024.02.29 MILWAUKEE ELECTRIC TOOL CORP
  • US20240066544A1 patent drawing
  • US20240066544A1 patent drawing
  • US20240066544A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A sprayer assembly and a filter apparatus for a hand tool are provided, including a reservoir wall forming a first side separating a second side. The first side forms an exterior volume and the second side forms an interior volume. An outlet body is connectable to the reservoir wall. The outlet body forms an inlet opening and an outlet opening and a flowpath extending between the inlet opening and the outlet opening. The outlet body includes a body wall forming an attachment interface. A filter assembly includes a filter wall from which a tab extends. A filter element is positioned at the filter wall and the filter wall is slidable to the body wall at the attachment interface.