Spin-On Filter Connecting Ring for Clean Threaded Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spin-on filter cartridges for internal combustion engines face complications in manufacturing due to complex seaming operations that introduce contaminants and require the entire cartridge replacement upon damage to threaded fittings, leading to increased waste and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A separate connecting ring with a threaded region is used to form the interface with the shell, allowing for manual assembly and replacement without damaging the shell, reducing components and simplifying manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If complex seaming operations are used to attach threaded fittings to the shell, then the threaded interface can be formed, but contaminants are introduced and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The threaded fitting is extracted from the shell as a separate component (connecting ring). The connecting ring is attached to the shell using simple snap-fit connections through the upper lip channel, eliminating the need for complex seaming operations and preventing contaminant introduction during assembly.
2Manufacturing precision
If complex seaming operations are used to attach threaded fittings, then the threaded interface is formed, but device complexity and manufacturing steps increase
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridge is segmented into distinct components: shell, connecting ring, end cap, and filter element. The connecting ring is a separate piece that attaches to the shell via simple snap-fit connections, eliminating complex seaming operations and reducing manufacturing process complexity.
3Reliability
If threaded fittings are damaged, then the filter cartridge cannot function, but the entire cartridge must be replaced causing waste
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting ring is separated from the shell, allowing the connecting ring to be replaced independently if damaged while retaining the shell and filter element. This prevents waste of the entire cartridge and reduces material loss.
4Ease of operation
If threaded fittings are attached to the shell, then the filter can be installed, but damage to fittings requires complete replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting ring is a separate component that can be independently replaced. If the threaded fitting on the connecting ring is damaged, only the connecting ring needs to be replaced, not the entire filter cartridge, improving ease of repair.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter cartridge includes a shell, a connecting ring, an end cap, and an axially directed sealing member. The shell defines an inner cavity and an upper lip disposed along an upper edge of the inner cavity. The upper lip defines a channel. The connecting ring is positioned outside of the inner cavity and is engaged with the channel. The connecting ring includes a threaded region extending along a central axis of the shell. The end cap is engaged with the shell adjacent to the upper lip. The axially directed sealing member is positioned between the shell and the end cap and extends axially outward so as to form an axial seal with a filter head when the filter cartridge is installed on the filter head.