FILTER ASSEMBLY, FILTER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A FILTER ASSEMBLY

Abstract

Filter assembly and system. The technology disclosed in this document relates, in part, to a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a filter medium, an end cap, and a waste container. The filter medium includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a filter body extending between the first and second ends. The end cap is attached to the filter medium along the first end. The waste container is securely attached to the end cap. The waste container extends along the second end to sealably contain the filter body.

Description

FILTER ASSEMBLY, FILTER SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING A FILTER ASSEMBLY

[001] This application claims priority over Provisional Application No. U.S. 62 / 867,699, filed June 27, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technology Field

[002] The present disclosure relates generally to filtration systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to filter assemblies configured for removal and disposal of cleaning from a filtration system. Summary

[003] The technology disclosed in this document relates, in part, to a filter assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to assemblies, systems and methods relating to the removal of a filter assembly from a filtration system and the containment of the filter media and particles accumulated therein. The present disclosure provides for the disposal of a contaminated or used filter assembly that is removable and replaceable within a filtration system. The filter assembly includes a disposal container fixed to an end cap of the filter assembly to conveniently extend along the filter media as the filter assembly is removed from the filtration system for disposal.The filter assembly provides a low-cost and convenient enclosure of the used filter media within the disposal container to minimize disturbance of particles and / or contaminants collected in the filter media during handling for removal and disposal of the filter assembly. In this way, the fall or displacement of particles, etc., collected in the filter media during filtration operations of the filter system is substantially contained by the disposal container during handling and removal of the filter assembly. This ensures the confinement of the soiled filter media during removal from the filtration system and disposal of the assembly. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 9 / 71 A 2 / 25 filter can minimize or eliminate the need to clean the filter housing, etc., due to the displacement of contaminants from the filter assembly during removal, and limit or prevent user exposure to contaminants.

[004] The filter assembly includes a filter medium, an end cap, and a waste container. The filter medium includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a filter body extending between the first and second ends. The end cap is attached to the filter medium along the first end. The waste container is securely attached to the end cap. The waste container extends along the second end to seal the filter body tightly.

[005] In some of these embodiments, the waste container is fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the end cap. Alternatively, the waste container is formed as a flexible liner. Alternatively, the waste container may be formed to match an exterior of the filter body when in an extended state. Alternatively, the waste container is tubular.

[006] Alternatively, the disposal container includes a first end fixed to the end cap and a second end opposite the first end, which is open. Alternatively, the disposal container has an unextended state and an extended state. In such embodiments, the first and second ends of the disposal container may be arranged adjacent to the end cap in the unextended state, and the second end of the disposal container extends along the second end of the filter body in the extended state. Alternatively, the disposal container in an unextended state is completely arranged around a perimeter of the end cap. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 10 / 71 3 / 25

[007] Some embodiments described in this document refer to a filter system. The filter system includes a filter housing that has a clean air portion and a filtration portion, wherein the clean air and filtration portions are separated by a plate, and a filter assembly that is removable within the filter housing. The filter assembly includes a filter medium, an end cap, and a waste container. The filter medium includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a filter body that extends between the first end and the second end. The end cap is coupled to the filter medium along the first end. The waste container is fixedly coupled to the end cap.The waste container is placed within the clean air portion of the filter housing when the filter assembly is in use, and the waste container extends along the other end to seal the filter body tightly when the filter media is removed from the filter housing.

[008] In some of these embodiments, the disposal container has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and the first end of the disposal container may be fixedly coupled to the end cap, and the second end is open. Additionally or alternatively, the second end of the disposal container is releasable attachable to the plate. Additionally or alternatively, the disposal container is configured to be in a compressed state around a perimeter of the end cap until it is extended to sealably contain the filter body. Additionally or alternatively, the disposal container is extendable within the clean air portion when the filter media is withdrawn from the filtration portion to the clean air portion. Additionally or alternatively, the disposal container is tubular. Additionally or alternatively, the disposal container has a flexible liner. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 11 / 71 4 / 25

[009] Some embodiments described in this document refer to a method for manufacturing a filter assembly. The method includes attaching an end cap to a first end of a filter medium and securely attaching a first end of a waste container to the end cap. The waste container includes a receiving body that extends between the first and second opposite ends. The waste container can be loosely assembled around the end cap and is extendable to completely enclose the filter medium within the receiving body.

[010] In some of these embodiments, securely attaching the first end of the disposal container to the end cap includes hot welding the first end to the end cap. Alternatively, or additionally, securely attaching the first end of the disposal container to the end cap includes overmolding the first end to the end cap. Alternatively, or additionally, securely attaching the first end of the disposal container to the end cap includes adhering the first end to the end cap with an adhesive. Alternatively, or additionally, the disposal container has a flexible tube.

[011] The term fixedly coupled, as used in this document, is defined as fixed in such a way that it is not temporary.

[012] The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or all implementations. Instead, a fuller understanding of the illustrative embodiments will be made more evident and understood with reference to the following Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments and claims in view of the accompanying figures of the drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 12 / 71 5 / 25

[013] The present technology can be more fully understood and observed by considering the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the attached drawings.

[014] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an exemplary filter assembly illustrating the disposal container in an extended state according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[015] Figure 1B is a perspective view of the exemplary filter assembly of Figure 1A illustrating the disposal container in a non-extended state according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[016] Figure 2 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the exemplary filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1B according to the aspects of the present disclosure.

[017] Figure 3 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the exemplary filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1A according to the aspects of the present disclosure.

[018] Figures 4A-4D are enlarged partial cross-sectional views of exemplary filter assemblies according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[019] Figures 5A-5D are schematic cross-sectional views of a filtration system having a filter assembly in various states of assembly and removal according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[020] Figure 6 is an expanded partial side view of the filtration system of Figure 5B according to the aspects of the present disclosure.

[021] Figure 7 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the filter assembly of Figure 5C according to the aspects of the present disclosure.

[022] The figures are presented primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. In addition, several Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 13 / 71 6 / 25 Structures / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removed from some or all views to better illustrate aspects of the embodiments represented, or when the inclusion of such structures / components is not necessary for understanding the various exemplary embodiments described in this document. The lack of illustration / description of such structures / components in a particular figure is, however, not to be interpreted as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way. Detailed Description

[023] Figures 1A-1B are perspective views of an exemplary filter assembly 100 according to aspects of the present disclosure. The filter assembly 100 includes a filter medium 110, an end cap 112, and a waste container 114. The waste container 114 is fixedly coupled to the end cap 112 and is selectively extendable along the filter medium 110, as further discussed below. Figure 1A illustrates the waste container 114 in an extended state, and Figure 1B illustrates the waste container 114 in a non-extended state.

[024] The filter medium 110 has a first end 116 and a second end 118 opposite the first end 116. The filter medium 110 has a filter body 120 that extends between the first end 116 and the second end 118. The filter medium 110 is generally configured to filter a fluid, such as, for example, a gaseous fluid, but in some other embodiments, the filter medium 110 is configured to filter a liquid. The filter medium 110 is generally arranged around a central median opening 122 (see, for example, Figure 2). The filter medium 110 and the central median opening 122 extend in an axial direction from the first end 116 of the filter medium 110 towards the second end 118 of the filter medium 110. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 14 / 71 7 / 25

[025] The filter medium 110 may be constructed of a variety of material types and combinations of materials. In some examples, the filter medium 110 may have an oval cross-section or it may have a circular cross-section (orthogonal aa). In some examples, the filter medium 110 is in a pleated configuration including a plurality of pleats (not shown) extending in the axial direction a. The plurality of pleats may include outer pleat folds that define an outer perimeter, or boundary, of the filter medium 110 and may include inner pleat folds that define an inner perimeter, or boundary, of the filter medium 110. The inner perimeter, or boundary, defines the central media opening 122. In some examples, a liner (not shown) is disposed within the pleated filter medium along the inner perimeter to mutually define the central media opening 122.In other examples, the filter medium 110 is in a bag configuration formed by one or more layers of filter medium that define an open end at the first end 116, a closed end towards the second end 118, and the central medium opening 122. Other types of filter medium 110 may also be used.

[026] In further reference to Figure 2, in some examples, the central median opening 122 defines a downstream side of the filter assembly 100 and an outer surface 124 of the filter medium 110 defines an upstream side of the filter assembly 100. In some other examples, the central median opening 122 defines an upstream side of the filter assembly 100 and an outer surface 124 of the filter medium 110 defines a downstream side of the filter assembly 100.

[027] The second end 118 may be open or may be closed. In some examples, as illustrated in Figures 1A-1B, the second end 118 may be closed with a closure 126, for example, disposed along the second end 118 of the filter medium 110. The closure 126 may generally be configured to obstruct the central medium opening 122 at the second end 118 of the Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 15 / 71 8 / 25 filter medium 110. In particular, the closure 126 can assist in defining a fluid flow path that extends between the exterior of the filter assembly 100 and the central media opening 122 through the filter medium 110. The closure 126 may be a second end cap coupled to the second end 118 of the filter medium 110 in some instances, such as instances where the filter medium 110 is in a pleated configuration. In other instances, the closure 126 may be a portion of the filter medium 110 itself, such as when the filter medium 110 is in a bag configuration.

[028] Figures 2 and 3 are enlarged partial perspective views of filter assembly 100 illustrating the end cap 112 coupled to the first end 116 of the filter medium 110 and the waste container 114 fixedly coupled to the end cap 112. In particular, Figure 2 illustrates the waste container 114 fully disposed around the end cap 112 in the unextended state, similar to Figure 1B, and Figure 3 illustrates the waste container 114 extended from the end cap 112 in an extended state, similar to Figure 1A. The end cap 112 is generally configured to form a seal with the filter medium 110, as well as system components of a filtration system when the filter assembly 100 is installed in the filtration system, as described in more detail below.

[029] With particular reference to the perspective view in Figure 2, the end cap 112 defines an end cap opening 130 in communication with the central middle opening 122. The end cap opening 130 is in fluid communication with the central middle opening 122, so that fluid can pass through it. The end cap 112 has an inner surface 132 contiguous with and surrounding the end cap opening 130, particularly visible in Figure 2. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 16 / 71 9 / 25

[030] With continued reference to Figures 2 and 3, the end cap 112 includes an outer perimeter surface 134 extending between a first edge 136 and an end cap flap 138. The end cap flap 138 extends outward from the outer perimeter surface 134. The end cap flap 138 forms a first surface 133, a flap edge 135, and a second surface 137. The second surface 137 also defines the end cap opening 130. In some examples, the second surface 137 may form a generally flat surface extending orthogonally to the filter body extension 120 (i.e., axial direction a). The end cap flap 138 may be configured to form a seal with the system components of a corresponding filtration system in some examples.The first surface 133 may be flat, convex, or of any other suitable shape to facilitate sealing of the end cap 112 with the system components of the filtration system. With further reference to the cross-sectional views of Figures 4A-4D, the end cap 112 defines a filter media receptacle 128 along the first edge 136 which is configured to receive the first end 116 of the filter media 110.

[031] The end cap 112 may be constructed of several different types of materials and combinations of materials. In some examples, the end cap 112 is constructed of urethane. In some examples, the end cap 112 is constructed of a cast aluminum with a gasket material disposed across one or more surfaces and at least a portion of the first surface 133. In some examples, the end cap 112 is at least partially constructed of a material having a durometer between about 30 Shore A and 70 Shore A (ASTM D2240 - 15e1).

[032] The waste container 114 is fixedly coupled to the end cap 112 and is selectively extendable along the filter medium 110 to Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 17 / 71 10 / 25 selectively contain the filter medium 110 for disposal from the filter assembly 100, as further discussed below. The disposal container 114 has a first container end 142 (referred to hereafter in this document as the fixing end), a second container end 148 (referred to hereafter in this document as the terminal end), and a receiving body 146. The disposal container 114 is fixedly coupled to the end cap 112 towards the fixing end 142. In general, the disposal container 114 is flexible and transitionable from an unextended state (see, for example, Figures 1B and 2) to an extended state (see, for example, Figures 1A and 3). In an unextended state of the disposal container 114, the receiving body 146 is positioned around the end cap 112 and does not extend along the filter body 120 of the filter medium 110.In some examples, in an unextended state of the disposal container 114, the fixing end 142, the terminal end 148, and the receiving body 146 are each positioned around the end cap 112. In an extended state, the terminal end 148 of the disposal container 114 is positioned to extend beyond the second end 118 of the filter medium 110. In an extended state, the filter body 120 is completely received within the receiving body 146 of the disposal container 114, as further discussed below.

[033] The disposal container 114 may be formed of a thin, flexible material to allow transition between the unextended and extended states. The disposal container 114 may be constructed of several different types of materials and combinations of materials suitable to facilitate the confinement of the filter medium 110 and materials and particles accumulated in the filter medium 110 when in the extended state. In several examples, the disposal container 114 is constructed of a particulate-impermeable material. In some examples, the disposal container Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 18 / 71 11 / 25 114 is constructed of a material similar to polyurethane sheet. In some examples, the disposal container 114 is constructed of high-density polyethylene. In some examples, the disposal container 114 may have a material thickness of 0.001–0.006 inches (0.0254–0.1524 millimeters). Other suitable material types and thicknesses are also acceptable. In one example, the terminal end 148 may include a marker, thickened edge, folded edge, or other suitable edge indicators / stiffeners to assist the user in locating, gripping, and / or securing the terminal end 148 to a filtration system component, such as a tube sheet, for example. In some examples, the terminal end 148 may include a closure, such as a tie, for example.In some examples, the disposal container 114 is at least semi-transparent or translucent to provide visibility of the state of the filter medium (e.g., dirty or clean) to the user, particularly when in the extended state.

[034] The disposal container 114 may be formed of a size and shape complementary to the size and shape of the filter medium 110 and suitable for extending along and encapsulating the filter medium 110 when in an extended state. In general, the receiving body 146 forms a barrier wall extending between the fixing and terminal ends 142, 148. The ends 142, 148 are formed in an open configuration until fixedly coupled to the end cap 112 or closed otherwise, respectively. In some examples, the disposal container 114 has a tubular shape. The disposal container 114 may also generally be rectangular, or of another suitable shape, to accommodate and enclose the shape of the filter medium 110. The disposal container 114 is sized to extend completely along and around the filter medium 110.The 114 disposal container generally has internal dimensions along its cross-section, such as a diameter, width, and length, which are... Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 19 / 71 12 / 25 larger than the corresponding external cross-sectional dimensions of the filter medium 110. Such a configuration may reduce or prevent the disposal container from rubbing against the outer surface 124 of the filter medium 110 and displacing particles accumulated in the filter medium 110 while it is being transitioned from the unextended state to the extended state.

[035] As determined above, the receiving body 146 of the disposal container 114 extends between the fastening end 142 and the terminal end 148 to selectively contain, or encapsulate, the filter medium 110 (see also, for example, Figures 1A-1B) when in an extended state. The receiving body 146 of the disposal container 114 has a length L1 greater than a length L2 of the filter body 120 in the axial direction a. In one example, the length L1 is such that the terminal end 148 can be extended beyond, or outward, the second end 118 of the filter medium 110 in order to be properly closed and secured over the second end 118. For example, the terminal end 148 can be closed and secured with a tie fastener or other suitable mechanism. In one example, the terminal end 148 can be tied in a knot to secure the terminal end 148 in a closed configuration.The receiving body 146 of the disposal container 114 has a width W1, or diameter, greater than the width W2, or diameter, of the filter body 120, wherein the respective widths are orthogonal to the axial direction a.

[036] Figures 4A-4D represent cross-sectional views of exemplary filter assemblies 100a-100d on the end cap 112 in a plane orthogonal to the axial direction a. More particularly, Figures 4A-4D are cross-sectional views of some exemplary embodiments of the disposal container 114 fixedly coupled to the end cap 112 at the fixing end 142 of the disposal container 114. The disposal container 114 is flexible and transitionable from an unextended state (see, for example, Figures 4A Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 20 / 71 13 / 25 4B) to an extended state (see, for example, Figures 4C-4D). The disposal container 114 may be in the non-extended state when the filter assembly 100 is disposed of within a filtration system, such as during a filtration operation, and may be transitioned to the extended state during removal and disposal of the filter assembly 100 from the filtration system, as further discussed below.

[037] A seal 144 may be used to securely attach, or fasten, the disposal container 114 to the end cap 112. The seal 144 is generally used herein to refer cumulatively to seals 144a-144d, and the disposal container 114 is generally used herein to refer cumulatively to disposal containers 114a-114c. In some examples, the seal 144 may extend completely around the end cap 112, towards the fastening end 142, in order to provide an uninterrupted seal of the fastening end 142 of the disposal container 114 to the end cap 112. In some examples, the seal 144 extends around the entire fastening end 142 to form a fluid seal between the disposal container 114 and the end cap 112.The seal 144 is configured to maintain the attachment of the disposal container 114 to the end cap 112 in both the unextended and extended states. The seal 144 may have a thickness to limit interference with the assembly and sealing of the filter assembly 100 within the filtration system, as described further below. According to the aspects of the disclosure, the disposal container 114 may be securely coupled to the end cap 112 with the seal 144 in such a way as to facilitate the use of the filter assembly 100 within a filtration system during filtration operations and the removal of the filter assembly 100, as a unit, for disposal after use within the filtration system, for example. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 21 / 71 14 / 25

[038] In some examples, as illustrated in Figures 4A-4C, the filter assembly including the seal 144a-144c is arranged around the outer perimeter surface 134 of the end cap 112 to securely attach the disposal container 114a-114c to the end cap 112. In some examples, the seal 144 is positioned on or adjacent to the first surface 133 of the end cap tab 138. In some examples, the seal is arranged on or within the end cap tab 138, such as the tab edge 135 (see, for example, Figure 4A). In other examples, as illustrated in Figure 4D, the seal 144d securely couples both (1) the fixing end 142 of the disposal container 114d to the end cap 112 and (2) the first end 116 of the filter medium 110 inside the filter medium receptacle 128.

[039] The seal 144 may be constructed from a variety of different materials and combinations of materials, wherein element number 144 is used herein to refer cumulatively to elements 144a-144d. In some examples, the fastening end 142 of the disposal container 114 forms at least a portion of the seal 144. In some examples, the end cap 112 forms at least a portion of the seal 144. In some examples, the seal 144 is defined by hot welding the fastening end 142 to the end cap 112. In some examples, the seal 144 is defined by overmolding the end cap 112 to the fastening end 142 of the disposal container 114 so that the disposal container 114 is integral with the end cap 112. In some examples, the seal 144 additionally or alternatively includes an adhesive. Other suitable fastenings are also acceptable.

[040] In a non-extended state, as illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the disposal container 114 is arranged, in its entirety, around the end cap 112. In other words, the fastening end 142, the body of Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 22 / 71 The receiving body 146 and the end end 148 of the disposal container 114 are all arranged around and adjacent to the end cap 112. In some examples, the disposal container 114 is held around the end cap 112 without extending into the end cap opening 130. In other words, in the unextended state, the receiving body 146 and the end end 148 are arranged around the outer perimeter surface 134 and / or the flap edge 135 of the end cap 112. In some examples, the receiving body 146 and the end end 148 are arranged adjacent to and / or circumferentially over the fastening end 142 on the end cap 112. In some examples, as illustrated in Figure 4A, the disposal container 114 is loosely gathered (e.g., in flakes) around the end cap 112 in an unextended state.The terminal end 148 may be exposed to be grasped by a user to transition the disposal container 114 from an unextended state to an extended state, for example. In other examples, as illustrated in Figure 4B, the disposal container 114 may be temporarily or releasably restrained or compressed in an unextended state with a restraint 149, such as tape, removable adhesive, bands, clips, or other suitable mechanism. In one example, the restraint 149 may include a releasable plastic seal that can hold the receiving body 146 and the terminal end 148 in a confined configuration against the end cap 112 until they are released.

[041] As illustrated in the cross-sectional views of Figures 4C and 4D, the disposal container 114 was released from an unextended state, as illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, to transition the receiving body 146 (and the end cap 148) to extend along the filter body 120 and enclose the filter medium 110. The seal 144 holds the retaining end 142 in the end cap 112 while in both the unextended and extended states. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 23 / 71 16 / 25

[042] Filter assembly 100 is generally configured to be installed in a removable manner in a filtration system 200. Figures 5A-5D and Figures 6-7 illustrate various states of installation and removal of filter assembly 100 in relation to the filtration system 200, as described in detail below. Filter assembly 100 may be a replacement filter assembly. Filter assembly 100 may be removable and replaceable with a new filter assembly within the filtration system 200 when contaminated or dirty. The filtration system 200, illustrated schematically, may be a dust collection system, or an engine system, for example. In general terms, the filtration system 200 includes a housing 201 which has a filtration portion 202, and a clean air-filled portion or space 204, with a plate 206 (or tube sheet) extending between the filtration portion 202 and the clean air portion 204.The filtration system 200 can house one or more filter assemblies, with each filter assembly 100 extending into the filtration portion 202 from the clean air portion 204 through a tube sheet opening 207 of the tube sheet 206. The tube sheet 206 can define one or more tube sheet openings 207 configured, each to secure the filter assembly 100 within the filtration system 200 and allow the positioning of the filter media 110 within the filtration portion 202 of the filtration system 200. Each of the tube sheet openings 207 is configured to fit into the end cap of the filter assembly 100. The tube sheet 206 can support the filter assembly 100 within the filtration system 200.And, in particular, the end cap 112 of the filter assembly 100 is generally configured to form a seal with the system components (e.g., the tube sheet 206) so that the clean air-filled space 204 is isolated from the unfiltered fluid of the filtration portion 202.

[043] As illustrated in the schematic side view of Figure 5A, before or during the process of installing filter assembly 100 within the filtration system Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 24 / 71 17 / 25 200, the filter assembly 100 can be positioned within the clean air portion 204. More particularly, the filter assembly 100 can be positioned adjacent to or above the tube sheet opening 207 of the tube sheet 206. The filter assembly 100 can be axially aligned with the tube sheet opening 207 for insertion through the tube sheet opening 207 orthogonal to the plate 206, or tube sheet, until the end cap 112 is contiguous with the tube sheet 206. Before and / or during the insertion of the filter assembly 100 into the opening 207, the waste container 114 is disposed around the end cap 112 in an unextended state, as discussed above. In this state, the waste container 114 does not cover or extend along the filter medium 110 or interfere with the insertion of the filter medium 110 through the opening 207.As indicated by arrow 208a, the filter assembly 100 is moved toward the plate, or tube sheet, which is slid into an operating position within the filtration system 200, as illustrated in Figure 5B.

[044] Figure 5B illustrates a side view of the filter assembly 100 fully assembled within the filtration system 200 in the operational position. With further reference to Figure 6, which is an expanded partial side view of Figure 5B, the end cap 112 is sealed against the tube sheet 206 and / or other component of the filtration system 200, with the disposal container 114 disposed around the end cap 112 in the clean air portion 204. The filter medium 110 is disposed within the filtration portion 202 of the filtration system 200. In this state, the filter medium 110 is exposed for filtration and accumulation of contaminants, or particles, in the filter medium 110. The disposal container 114 remains disposed outside the filtration portion 202 of the filtration system 200 during the operational state.

[045] The disposal container 114 can be held along a surface 208 of the tube sheet 206 on the clean air side 204 and adjacent to the lid of Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 25 / 71 18 / 25 end 112 with end cap opening 130 exposed. In some embodiments, the waste container 114 is held between the surface 208 of the tube sheet 206 and the end cap 112. The waste container 114 does not interfere with the sealing of the end cap 112 with respect to the tube sheet 206. In some examples, the waste container 114 may extend from the inside of the tube sheet opening 207 into the clean air portion 204 of the filtration system 200. For example, the waste container 114 extends between the end cap 112 and the tube sheet 206. In some examples, such as when the fixing end of the waste container 114 is disposed on the tab edge 135 of the end cap 112, the waste container 114 may be disposed entirely within the clean air portion 204.The disposal container 114 may remain contained or restricted in an unextended state or may be disposed of freely (e.g., in flakes) in the unextended state. Alternatively or additionally, the receiving body 146 and / or the terminal end 148 may be repositioned or adjusted during or after installation of the filter assembly 100 within the tube sheet opening 207 of the tube sheet 206 or on the surface 208 of the tube sheet 206.

[046] The terminal end 148 of the disposal container 114 may be releasably attached within the clean air portion 204 of the filtration system 200. In some examples, the terminal end 148 is releasably attached with adhesive, tape, clips, O-rings, or other mechanism to the tube sheet 206 or other component of the filtration system 200. For example, the terminal end 148 may be fixed to the surface 208 of the tube sheet 206 with a release clip or other fastening mechanism (not shown). In some examples, the disposal container 114 is flaked or otherwise arranged to facilitate the transition of the disposal container 114 from the unextended to the extended state when desired. The disposal container 114 is arranged around the lid of Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 26 / 71 19 / 25 end 112 and does not extend along the end cap opening 130. The waste container 114 may remain in an unextended state until it is moved from the unextended state by a user. The waste container 114 in the unextended state, which is positioned around the end cap 112, may be in a compressed form so as not to interfere with the operation of the filtration system 200. In some examples, the waste container 114 may be additionally contained or secured to the surface 208 and end cap 112 to keep the waste container 114 in the unextended state until removal and disposal of the filter assembly 100. For example, the waste container 114 in the unextended state may be held to the surface 208 and / or end cap 112 so as not to cause interference or hazard (e.g., tripping) as a user moves through the tube sheet 206 to perform maintenance or other tasks.

[047] With reference to the side view of Figure 5C and the expanded partial perspective view of Figure 7, as the filter assembly 100 is pulled in the direction indicated by arrow 208b for removal of the filtration system 200, the filter assembly 100 is slid out of the filtration portion 202 and through the opening 207 of the tube sheet 206. As the filter assembly 100 is pulled out along the geometric axis a, the disposal container 114 is extended along the length of the filter media body in response to the axial translation of the filter assembly 100 away from the tube sheet 206, in particular, the end cap 112 and the filter media 110, in the direction indicated by arrow 208b. In one example, the disposal container 114 can be extended by gravity, or gravity-assisted, as the filter assembly 100 is pulled in the direction of arrow 208b.In some examples, the terminal end 148 of the disposal container 114 remains fixed along the surface 208 of the tube sheet 206. For example, the releasable grip of the terminal end 148 of the container. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 27 / 71 20 / 25 discard 114 to tube sheet 206 or other element of filtration system 200 may facilitate the extension of the receiving body 146 of the discard container 114 along the filter assembly 100 as the filter assembly 100 is removed from the filtration portion 202 of the filtration system 200.

[048] As illustrated in Figure 5D, the filter medium 110 was completely removed from the filtration portion 202 and the tube sheet 206 and into the clean air portion 204 of the filtration system 200, and the disposal container 114 was transitioned to an extended state. In the examples, the terminal end 148 was released from the tube sheet 206. For example, if the terminal end 148 was releasable attached to the tube sheet 206 with a removal clamp, the clamp can be manually released, or opened. In another example, if the terminal end 148 has been releasably attached to the tube sheet 206 with adhesive, the adhesive is manually separated from one or both of the terminal end 148 and the tube sheet 206. The receiving body 146 of the disposal container 114 is extended completely along and around the filter body 120, and the terminal end 148 extends beyond the second end 118 of the filter medium 110.The terminal end 148 can be closed to encapsulate the filter medium 110 of the filter assembly 100 and the particles disposed therein. The terminal end 148 can be closed and / or secured with a restraint 149, such as a tie member, tape, forming a knot closure or any other suitable closure without further movement or transport of the filter assembly. The filter medium 110 is completely enclosed for further removal and disposal. In this way, the filter element 100 is removed from the filtration system 200 with minimal disruption and displacement of contaminants or particles accumulated in the filter medium 110.

[049] Filter assembly 100 can be transported with disposal container 114 in either the extended or non-extended state. By Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 28 / 71 21 / 25 example, filter assembly 100 can be transported with disposal container 114 configured in the non-extended state from the manufacturing facility to the user. Disposal container 114 can provide easy and convenient cleaning disposal of the used filter media by enclosing the filter media. Illustrative Modalities

[050] Modality 1. A filter assembly comprising: a filter medium comprising a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a filter body extending between the first end and the second end; an end cap attached to the filter medium along the first end; and a waste container fixedly attached to the end cap, the waste container being extendable along the second end to seal the filter body securely.

[051] Modality 2. The filter assembly of any of the modalities 1 and 3-8, in which the disposal container comprises a flexible liner.

[052] Embodiment 3. The filter assembly of any of the embodiments 1-2 and 4-8, wherein the disposal container comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the first end is fixedly coupled to the end cap, and the second end is open.

[053] Embodiment 4. The filter assembly of any of the embodiments 1-3 and 5-8, wherein the disposal container has an unextended state and an extended state, wherein the first end and the second end of the disposal container are disposed adjacent to the end cap in the unextended state, and wherein the second end of the disposal container extends along the second end of the filter body in the extended state. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 29 / 71 22 / 25

[054] Modality 5. The filter assembly of any of the 1-4 and 6-8 embodiments, in which the waste container is attached to an external surface of the end cap.

[055] Embodiment 6. The filter assembly of any of the embodiments 1-5 and 7-8, in which the disposal container in an unextended state is completely disposed around a perimeter of the end cap.

[056] Embodiment 7. The filter assembly of any of the embodiments 1-6 and 8, in which the waste container is formed to match an exterior of the filter body when in an extended state.

[057] Modality 8. The filter assembly of any of the modalities 1-7, in which the disposal container is tubular.

[058] Mode 9. A filter system comprising: a filter housing comprising a clean air portion and a filtration portion, wherein the clean air portion and the filtration portion are separated by a plate; A filter assembly is available for removable storage within the filter housing, wherein the filter assembly comprises: a filter medium comprising a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and a filter body extending between the first end and the second end; an end cap coupled to the filter medium along the first end; and a waste container fixedly coupled to the end cap, wherein the waste container is disposed within the clean air portion of the filter housing when the filter assembly is in use, and wherein the waste container is extendable along the second end to seal the filter body when the filter medium is removed from the filter housing. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 30 / 71 23 / 25

[059] Embodiment 10. The filter system of any of the embodiments 9 and 11-15, wherein the disposal container comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the first end is fixedly coupled to the end cap, and the second end is open.

[060] Modality 11. The filter system of any of the 910 and 12-15 embodiments, in which the second end of the waste container is attachable in a releasable manner to the plate.

[061] Embodiment 12. The filter system of any of the embodiments 911 and 13-15, wherein the disposal container is configured to be in a compressed state around a perimeter of the end cap until extended to sealably contain the filter body.

[062] Modality 13. The filter system of any of the modalities 912 and 14-15, where the disposal container is tubular.

[063] Modality 14. The filter system of either of the modalities 913 and 15, in which the disposal container comprises a flexible liner.

[064] Modality 15. The filter system of any of the 914 embodiments, in which the waste container is extendable within the clean air portion when the filter medium is removed from the filtration portion to the clean air portion.

[065] Modality 16. A method for manufacturing a filter assembly comprising: to attach an end cap to a first end of a filter medium; and to securely attach a first end of a disposal container to the end cap, wherein the disposal container comprises a receiving body extending between the first and second opposite ends, wherein the disposal container is releasably assembled around the Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 31 / 71 24 / 25 end cap, and where the discharge container is extendable to completely enclose the filter media within the receiving body.

[066] Modality 17. The method of either of the embodiments 16 and 1820, in which the first end of the disposal container is fixedly coupled to the end cap, comprises overmolding the first end onto the end cap.

[067] Modality 18. The method of any of the embodiments 16-17 and 19-20, in which the first end of the disposal container is fixedly coupled to the end cap, comprises hot welding the first end to the end cap.

[068] Embodiment 19. The method of any of the embodiments 16-18 and 20, in which the first end of the disposal container is securely coupled to the end cap, comprises adhering the first end to the end cap with an adhesive.

[069] Modality 20. The method of any of the embodiments 16-19, in which the disposal container comprises a flexible tube.

[070] It should also be noted that, as used in this descriptive report and the accompanying claims, the term configured describes a system, apparatus or other structure that is built or configured to perform a specific task or adopt a specific configuration. The term configured may be used interchangeably with similar terms such as arranged, constructed, manufactured and the like.

[071] All publications and patent applications in this descriptive report are indicative of the level of skill in the art to which this technology belongs. All publications and patent applications are incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually cited by reference. Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 32 / 71 25 / 25 if there is any inconsistency between the disclosure of this request and the disclosure (or disclosures) of any document incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of this request shall prevail.

[072] This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It should be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive, and the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments as presented in this document.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Filter assembly (100), CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: a filter medium (110) comprising a first end (116), a second end (118) opposite the first end (116), and a filter body (120) extending between the first end (116) and the second end (118), wherein the filter medium (110) is arranged around a central median opening (122) and wherein the filter medium (110) and the central median opening (122) extend in an axial direction (a); an end cap (112) coupled to the filter medium (110) along the first end (116), wherein the end cap (112) defines an opening of the end cap (130), and wherein the opening of the end cap (130) is in fluid communication with the central opening of the medium (122); and a discharge container (114) extendable along the second end to sealably contain the filter body,wherein the disposal container (114) is disposed around the end cap (112), wherein the disposal container (114) comprises a first end (142) and a second end (148) opposite the first end (142), and wherein the first end (142) is fixedly coupled to the end cap (112), and the second end (144) is open, wherein the disposal container (114) is not extended over the opening of the end cap (130), and wherein the disposal container (114) has an unextended state and an extended state, wherein the first end (142) and the second end (148) of the disposal container (114) are disposed adjacent to the end cap (112) in the unextended state, wherein the second end (148) of Petition 870240102188, of 11 / 29 / 2024, p. 34 / 71 2 / 4 disposal container (114) extends beyond the second end (118) of the filter medium (110) in the extended state,wherein the second end (148) of the disposal container (114), in the extended state, is configured to be closed with a restriction (149) to encapsulate the filter medium (110) of the filter assembly (100) and particles contained therein.

2. Filter assembly, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the discharge container (114) includes a receiving body (146) having a length (L1) greater than a length (L2) of the filter body (120) in the axial direction (α).

3. Filter assembly, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the disposal container (114) is composed of a flexible liner.

4. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, CHARACTERIZED in that the waste container (114) is fixedly coupled to an outer surface of the end cap (112).

5. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, CHARACTERIZED in that the disposal container (114) in an unextended state is completely disposed around a perimeter of the end cap (112).

6. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 5, CHARACTERIZED in that the disposal container (114) is formed to correspond to an exterior of the filter body (120) when in an extended state.

7. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 6, CHARACTERIZED in that the disposal container (114) is tubular.

8. Filter system, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 35 / 71 3 / 4 a filter housing (201) comprising a clean air portion (204) and a filtration portion (202), wherein the clean air portion and the filtration portion are separated by a plate (206); wherein the filter system comprises a filter assembly (100), as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the filter assembly is available in a removable manner within the filter housing (201), wherein the discharge container (114) of the filter assembly is disposed within the clean air portion of the filter housing (201) when the filter assembly is in use, and wherein the discharge container (114) is extendable along the second end (118) of the filter medium (110) to sealably contain the filter body (120) when the filter medium (110) is removed from the filter housing.

9. Filter system, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the second end (148) of the disposal container (114) is fixable in a releasable manner to the plate (206).

10. Filter system, according to claim 8 or 9, CHARACTERIZED in that the discharge container (114) is extendable within the clean air portion (204) when the filter medium (110) is withdrawn from the filtration portion (202) to the clean air portion (204).

11. Method for manufacturing a filter assembly, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 7, said method CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: attaching the end cap (112) to the first end (116) of the filter medium (110); and securely attaching the waste container (114) to the end cap (112).

12. Method according to claim 11, CHARACTERIZED in that the fixed coupling of the first end (142) of the disposal container (114) Petition 870240102188, dated 11 / 29 / 2024, page 36 / 71 4 / 4 to the end cap (112) comprises overmolding the first end (142) to the end cap (112), or in which the fixed coupling of the first end (142) of the disposal container (114) to the end cap (112) comprises hot welding of the first end (142) to the end cap (112), or in which the fixed coupling of the first end (142) of the disposal container (114) to the end cap (112) comprises adhering the first end (142) to the end cap (112) with an adhesive.

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