Universal Filter Holder Structure for Easy HEPA Filter Exchange

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional filter devices are cumbersome to change, require filters from specific manufacturers, and lack compatibility with HEPA filters, especially in high humidity and high volume flow applications.

Innovation Solution

A filter holding device comprising cup-shaped shell elements with interlocking extensions and a ring-shaped clamping element, allowing for easy filter exchange and compatibility with various filter types, including HEPA filters, with an airtight connection and demoldable design.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional filter holding devices are used with specific configurations for each filter type, then the filter is securely held in place, but the device complexity increases and filter exchange becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter holding securityVSAvoidfilter holder configuration variety
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter holding device uses a universal cup-shaped shell element design that can accommodate different filter types (standard filters and HEPA filters) through a single standardized interface. The shell element includes a standardized opening with tube connection that works with various filter configurations, eliminating the need for multiple specialized holder designs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The filter holding device is divided into separable components: a reusable cup-shaped shell element and replaceable filter units. This segmentation allows the shell to remain standardized while only the filter portion needs to be changed, simplifying the overall system and reducing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Manufacturing precision

If conventional filter holding devices are designed for specific filter types, then the filter fits precisely, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome filter exchange

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter fit precisionVSAvoidfilter exchange simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

A universal coupling interface is provided in the cup-shaped shell element that accommodates different filter types including HEPA filters. The standardized opening and tube connection allow various filter units to be attached and detached easily while maintaining precise sealing and fit through the standardized interface design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If conventional filter holders are designed with special design features, then the filter is securely retained, but adaptability deteriorates as filters are only available from specific manufacturers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter retention securityVSAvoidfilter manufacturer compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The cup-shaped shell element provides a universal mounting structure with a standardized opening that can accommodate filters from different manufacturers. The standardized interface ensures secure retention through consistent sealing and mechanical coupling, while allowing compatibility with various filter types and manufacturers.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The cup-shaped shell element acts as an intermediary between the filter unit and the housing system. It provides a standardized interface layer that decouples the filter manufacturer from the housing manufacturer, allowing any filter with the compatible interface to be used securely in the housing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Ease of manufacture

If conventional filter devices are used in high humidity applications, then the filtering function is provided, but reliability deteriorates as HEPA filters are not commercially available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefilter availabilityVSAvoidfilter performance in high humidity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The filter holding device is designed with a universal interface that accommodates both standard filters and HEPA filters in high humidity applications. The cup-shaped shell element and standardized opening allow HEPA filters to be installed in dehumidifier devices, expanding filter options for high humidity environments where HEPA filtration is required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4711025A1Filter device comprising a filter and a filter receiving device
Publication Date: 2026.03.18 ETAB EGGER
  • EP4711025A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4711025A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4711025A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a filter device (1) comprising a filter (3) and a filter receiving device (2), wherein the filter receiving device (2) is suitable for receiving the filter (3) and for allowing air to flow through the filter receiving device (2) and the filter (3), wherein the filter receiving device (2) comprises a cup-shaped first shell element (4) and a cup-shaped second shell element (5), wherein the joined shell elements (4, 5) define an interior space (6) of the filter receiving device (2), wherein the first shell element (4) has a first opening (9) into the interior space (6) penetrating a first base (7) of the first shell element (4) and designed as a first tube (8), wherein the filter (3) in the interior space (6) can be coupled to the first tube (8) so that contaminated air can flow into the interior space (6) through the first tube (8) with the filter (3) coupled thereto and through the filter (3) and through aa second opening (11) penetrating a second bottom (10) of the second shell element (5) from the interior (6) can escape.