Spring Biased Filter Element Valve Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolant filter assemblies pose safety risks and are costly due to the need for multiple parts and specialized training, as they require the entire assembly to be replaced when the filter element needs to be changed, and there is no mechanism to prevent hot coolant from spurting out during filter removal.
Innovation Solution
A spring-biased filter element with inlet and outlet valve actuators that automatically shut off fluid flow before the seal between the cover and housing is broken, ensuring safety during filter removal by using a bias member that compresses and extends to actuate the valves, allowing fluid flow when installed and closing them when the cover is removed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire filter assembly is replaced when the filter element needs changing, then safety is ensured and complete filtration function is restored, but cost increases and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is divided into separable components: a reusable housing and a replaceable filter element. The filter element can be independently removed and replaced without replacing the entire assembly, reducing cost and complexity while maintaining filtration reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is designed as a universal component that can accommodate different filter elements and serve multiple functions: housing the filter media, providing valve mechanisms for flow control, and ensuring safety during filter replacement. This multi-functionality reduces the need for complete assembly replacement.
2Ease of operation
If the cover is removed from the housing to access the filter element, then filter replacement is enabled, but hot coolant can spurt out and injure the service person
Solution Approach 1:
The valve mechanism is activated in advance by the filter element removal process itself. As the filter element is pulled out, the valve actuators automatically close the inlet and outlet valves before the cover is fully removed, preventing hot coolant spill while enabling filter access.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve actuators serve as intermediary components between the filter element and the valves. These actuators translate the mechanical motion of filter removal into valve closure action, mediating the interaction between filter replacement and safety protection.
3Device complexity
If valve actuators are positioned close to the seal, then space is saved, but the seal must be broken before valves close creating safety hazard
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning parameters of the valve actuators are specifically designed so that their retraction distance is less than the distance from the seal to the point where complete cover removal occurs. This parameter change ensures valves close before the seal breaks, maintaining safety while saving space.
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
Enables safe and efficient replacement of the filter element without replacing the entire assembly, preventing coolant spills and reducing the complexity and cost associated with filter changes.
Implementation Method 1
A spring biased filter element is disclosed. The filter element comprises a first (upper) endcap including a handle and a second (lower) endcap including an inlet valve actuator. A sleeve concentric and contiguous with the center tube defines a cavity and surrounds a bias member.
Data Source
AI summary
A filter element for use in a housing of a filter assembly having a cover and a seal therebetween. The housing includes inlet and outlet valves. The filter element comprises a first endcap and a second endcap including an inlet valve actuator. A cylindrical ring of filter media extends axially between the first and second endcaps and surrounds a center tube that defines an outlet having an outlet valve actuator. A sleeve positioned to receive and exert force in a first and second direction surrounds a bias member. Threading the cover to the housing compresses the bias member causing the inlet and outlet valve actuators to actuate the inlet and outlet valves. Removing the cover causes extension of the bias member and the inlet and outlet valve actuators to retreat from the inlet and outlet valves before the seal between the cover and the housing is broken.