Well Filter Plastic Connector Helical Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing well filters face issues with complex installation, high cost, and suboptimal sealing over time, particularly due to metal connectors prone to corrosion and requiring machinery for assembly.
Innovation Solution
A well filter with a plastic connector system that screws onto a helically arranged profile, featuring a collar with projections to prevent unscrewing, allowing for easy assembly without welding or additional components, and ensuring a durable seal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal connectors are used to connect filter portions, then the connection strength is improved, but corrosion occurs in the contact area between different metals
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses plastic connectors made of the same or compatible material as the filter portions, eliminating contact between dissimilar metals. This homogeneous material approach prevents galvanic corrosion while maintaining connection integrity through the threaded engagement with the helical profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs a composite construction where plastic connectors are used instead of metal, combining the advantages of corrosion resistance with mechanical strength. The plastic material serves both as a protective barrier and as the primary load-bearing connection element.
2Reliability
If heat-shrink plastic rings are used as connectors, then corrosion is prevented, but the installation becomes complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the heating step from the connection process by using pre-formed plastic connectors with integrated threads that match the helical profile. This eliminates the need for external heating equipment and complex installation procedures while maintaining the benefits of plastic connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed to be self-installing through simple manual threading onto the helical profile. The self-service nature of the connection process eliminates the need for specialized machinery or heated tools, making installation as simple as screwing on a standard connector.
3Ease of operation
If plastic connectors that screw onto the filter are used, then installation is simplified, but the seal is not optimal over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention incorporates an elastomeric sealing element that can deform and conform to the interface between the connector and filter body. This flexible seal maintains its effectiveness over time by accommodating minor dimensional variations and stress-induced movements that rigid seals cannot tolerate.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric seal acts as an intermediary element between the rigid connector and filter body, providing a compliant interface that ensures reliable sealing. This intermediate layer compensates for manufacturing tolerances and prevents leakage paths that would otherwise develop over time.
4Strength
If traditional connection systems are used, then connection strength is achieved, but the filter requires welding, screws or rivets to fasten
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the connector body and sealing function into a single integrated component. The plastic connector incorporates the threaded engagement feature and the elastomeric seal as unified elements, eliminating the need for separate fasteners, gaskets, or additional fastening components.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical strength through threaded engagement with the helical profile, creates a fluid-tight seal through the integrated elastomeric element, and prevents corrosion by using non-metallic materials. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized components.
Data Source
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AI summary
A filter (10) suitable for use in a well comprises a filter body (16) having a plurality of longitudinal supporting bars (12) arranged along generators of a cylinder and at least one profile (14) arranged helically around said bars and fastened thereto with a constant first pitch (Pc) in at least one end portion (20, 22) of the filter body, a connector (24, 26) having a thread (28) with a pitch equal to said first pitch (Pc) of the profile in at least one end portion of the filter body, the connector being able to be screwed onto said end portion of the filter body, and a collar (50) interposed between the end portion (20, 22) of the filter body and the connector (24, 26), the collar preventing the connector from unscrewing from the end portion (20) of the filter body (16).