Sliding-Lock Filter Element Assembly for Tool-Free Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filter elements in filtering apparatuses are inconvenient to replace, requiring tools for mounting, high torque, and manual water supply switching, leading to low efficiency and increased production costs due to customized housings for different filtration levels.
Innovation Solution
A filter element assembly with a locking apparatus featuring a sliding plate and button sliding block mechanism, allowing for quick replacement through a linear movement mode and modular design, reducing the need for tool-assisted detachment and enabling automatic water supply disconnection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional rotating buckle connection or threaded connection is used to fix the filter element, then the connection is reliable, but the mounting is inconvenient because tools are needed and the mounting torque is high
Solution Approach 1:
The locking apparatus is divided into multiple independent components: a locking component with locking blocks, a sliding plate with guide grooves, and an elastic element. This segmentation allows the system to achieve reliable locking through the interaction of simple, tool-free components while maintaining ease of operation through linear sliding motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic element automatically pushes the locking blocks into the locked position when the sliding plate moves linearly, eliminating the need for manual torque application or tool assistance. The system self-locks through the elastic force, providing both reliability and operational simplicity.
2Reliability
If traditional connection methods are used, then the filter element is securely fixed, but the water supply or discharge passage cannot be automatically disconnected and water seeps when the filter element is inverted or positioned horizontally
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function and sealing function are merged into a single integrated locking apparatus. The sliding plate with guide grooves simultaneously achieves mechanical locking and seals the water passages, eliminating the need for separate water supply control mechanisms and preventing leakage in any orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking apparatus serves multiple functions: mechanical locking, sealing water passages, and preventing leakage in various orientations. This multi-functionality is achieved through the guide grooves that guide the locking blocks while maintaining seal contact, eliminating the need for separate control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If customized housings with multiple joints are used for different filtration levels, then the filter elements can be matched to specific requirements, but the difficulty in mold manufacturing increases and production costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into a standardized housing with a universal locking apparatus and interchangeable filter elements. This allows different filtration levels to be achieved through different filter element designs rather than customized housings, significantly simplifying mold manufacturing while maintaining adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
A universal locking apparatus design is created that can accommodate multiple filter element types and configurations. This standardized interface provides adaptability for different filtration requirements while using a single housing mold, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs.
4Reliability
If traditional connectors are used to fix the filter element, then the connection is secure, but the connectors are easy to lose and non-professionals are difficult to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The locking blocks with elastic elements automatically engage and lock when the sliding plate moves linearly, requiring no manual intervention or specialized knowledge. The self-locking mechanism ensures secure connection while being extremely simple to operate for any user.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring active tightening or complex connector manipulation, the system uses passive elastic force to automatically lock the filter element in place. The inversion of the locking mechanism from active to passive operation eliminates the need for connectors that can be lost and simplifies user interaction.
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
Facilitates quick and efficient filter element replacement, lowers manufacturing costs by allowing modular design, and reduces maintenance effort, while maintaining water purification effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
One end of the arc-shaped button sliding plate is connected to an elastic element, and the other end thereof is connected to a connecting module; the arc-shaped button sliding plates swing left and right through movement of the connecting module.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses a filter element assembly. The filter element assembly includes a joint, a filter element, and a locking apparatus for detachably connecting the filter element to the joint. The locking apparatus includes a sliding plate fixing cover provided with a central through hole and mounted at a bottom end of the joint, and a button sliding block provided with a central through hole and arranged between the joint and the sliding plate fixing cover in a slidable manner. The button sliding block includes arc-shaped button sliding plates arranged in a left-right symmetrical manner in a circumferential direction of the joint. One end of the arc-shaped button sliding plate is connected to an elastic element, and the other end thereof is connected to a connecting module; the arc-shaped button sliding plates swing left and right through the connecting module.