Filter Arrangements for Liquids and Methods of Use

Description

1 / 71 Filter Arrangements for Liquids and Methods of Use. Cross-reference upon request.

[001] This application was filed on April 12, 2024 as a PCT International Patent Application and claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 459,464, filed on April 14, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 459,480, filed on April 14, 2023, the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein. FIELD OF TECHNIQUE

[002] The present invention relates generally to liquid filters and methods. Exemplary embodiments described include cartridge and container assemblies and filter-in-tank assemblies, for use, for example, in oil or hydraulic systems. FUNDAMENTALS OF THE INVENTION

[003] Liquid filters are used in a variety of applications, including, for example, hydraulic systems, fuel systems, and engine lubrication systems.

[004] In general, liquid filters that accommodate downstream components are a cause for concern. In particular, it is important to avoid cavitation of pumps and other equipment downstream of liquid filters. Conditions such as cold starts, flow spikes, or occluded elements can result in damage to downstream components.

[005] Continuous improvements are desired. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[006] According to one aspect, a filter assembly is provided comprising: (a) a filter element having a filter medium; (b) a removable, positionable end arrangement on the filter element; (c) a Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 8 / 144 2 / 71 first supporting element and a second supporting element capable of supporting each other when the set is in a first condition and prevented from supporting each other when the set is in a second condition; and (d) a transition arrangement to allow the set to transition between the first condition and the second condition.

[007] According to exemplary modalities: - The first support element includes a flexible radial element. - The first support element includes an axially rigid element. The transition arrangement is mechanically linked to the filter element. - The first support element includes a spiral spring and / or flat spring, and / or clock spring. The first support element is a flat spring molded to form a partial casing. The transition arrangement includes a slope in the filter element. The filter element has a first end and a second, opposite end, and the tilt arrangement projects radially from the first end. The tilt arrangement is configured to radially adjust the flexible radial element when forced against the tilt arrangement in a direction from the first end to the second end. The first condition includes the flexible radial element having a first external dimension, and the second condition includes the flexible radial element having a second external dimension, the first external dimension being smaller than the second external dimension. The first condition includes the flexible radial element having a first external dimension, and the second condition includes the flexible radial element having a second external dimension, the first external dimension being larger than the second. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 9 / 144 3 / 71 second exterior dimension. The first support element is connected to the end arrangement. The end arrangement is either a filter head or a cover. The transition arrangement radially adjusts the first support element to prevent the first support element from being juxtaposed against the second support element. - The second support element is part of a housing arrangement designed to receive the filter element. The housing arrangement includes a strainer arrangement with an open interior, the open interior being constructed and arranged to receive the filter element. The strainer arrangement has a first end cap, the first end cap including the second support element. The housing arrangement includes a filter container with an open interior, the open interior being constructed and arranged to receive the filter element. The first support element is connected to the end arrangement.

[008] According to one aspect, a filter assembly is provided comprising: (a) an end arrangement; (b) a first support element in the filter assembly that is radially movable; and (c) a filter cartridge comprising: (i) a tubular middle pack defining an internal open middle, the tubular middle pack having a first end and an opposite second end; (ii) a central longitudinal axis centered in the tubular middle pack and passing through the first end and second end; and (iii) a displacement element dimensioned and positioned so as to fit against the first support element to move the first support element radially when the cartridge of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 10 / 144 The 4 / 71 filter is connected to the end array.

[009] According to exemplary modalities: The displacement element includes a tilt arrangement. - The displacement element includes a live hinge that rotates against the first support element. - The slope arrangement includes a sloped surface inclined at a non-zero angle and not perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. - The slope of the surface is angled between 5 and 80 degrees. - The inclined surface is angled between 15 and 70 degrees. - The inclined surface is angled at approximately 20 to 30 degrees. The filter cartridge has a first end cap attached to the first end of the tubular medium package, and the sloped surface is an integral part of the first end cap. - The first end cap has an outer radial surface that defines the slope surface. - the tilting surface has a free front end and a free rear end; - the front free end projects axially away from a remaining part of the filter cartridge and towards the filter head; and the rear end lies along an outer periphery of the first end cap. - the end arrangement includes a filter head and a cover arrangement, the filter head having: (a) a wall surrounding an open interior and fluid channels; and (b) a first attachment arrangement along the wall, the wall having first and second opposite ends, each of the first and second ends being open. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 11 / 144 5 / 71 - the cover arrangement is designed to be positioned in a removable manner inside the filter head, the cover arrangement including: (i) a central hub that encloses a fluid conduit communicating with the fluid channels of the filter head; (ii) a second fastening arrangement constructed and arranged for removable connection with the first fastening arrangement; wherein, when the cover arrangement is positioned over the first cartridge, the displacement element moves the first support element radially so as to allow the second fastening arrangement of the cover arrangement to connect to the first fastening arrangement of the filter head. - the end arrangement includes a filter head, the filter head having: (a) a wall surrounding an open interior and fluid channels; and (b) a first attachment arrangement along the wall, the wall having first and second opposite ends, the second end being open and sized to connect to a filter vessel. - The end arrangement further includes a filter canister with an open interior, the open interior being constructed and arranged to receive the filter element, the filter canister having a second removable fastening arrangement that connects to the first fastening arrangement. - The filter cartridge includes a sealing element positioned to form a seal with the end arrangement; and the first end cap has an external axial surface that secures the sealing element. The first end cap is an open end cap. The filter cartridge also includes a second end cap attached to the second end of the tubular media package. The second end cap is a closed end cap. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 12 / 144 6 / 71 The second end cap is an open end cap. - The tubular medium package is an inner tubular medium package; and the filter cartridge further includes an outer tubular medium package radially spaced from and surrounding the inner tubular medium package. - The inner tubular half-pack comprises a pleated half; and the outer tubular half-pack comprises a pleated half. The outer tubular half-pack has a first end and an opposite second end; and the first end cap is attached to the first end of the outer tubular half-pack. - The inner tubular mid-pack has a greater axial length than the outer tubular mid-pack; and the first end of the inner tubular mid-pack is closer to the cover arrangement than the first end of the outer tubular mid-pack. The filter cartridge also includes an outer casing that surrounds the outer tubular media package; the outer casing extends between the first end cap and a second, opposite end cap. - The first support element is attached to the end arrangement. - The first support element encloses a central cube in the end arrangement. - The first support element comprises an axially rigid and radially flexible spring that moves radially in response to the force against the spring by the displacement element. - The first support element comprises a flat spring that moves in the radial direction when pressed against the inclined surface and when free from contact with the inclined surface. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 13 / 144 7 / 71 The end arrangement includes a cover arrangement with a plurality of rods projecting from the central hub; and the spring is mounted in a sliding manner on the plurality of rods. - The end arrangement includes a filter head having a surrounding wall with a plurality of rods projecting from the surrounding wall into the filter head; and the spring is mounted in a sliding manner on the plurality of rods. - the cover arrangement includes: (a) a closed cover element having an outer radial surface that defines the second fastening arrangement; (b) a sealing ring spaced axially from the cover element, the sealing ring with a radially oriented sealing element positioned to form a seal with the filter head; (c) the sealing ring having a first axial surface and a second opposite axial surface, the first axial surface facing the cover element; and (d) the central hub extending from the second axial surface. - The central hub has an outer diameter that is 50 to 80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring. - The radially oriented sealing element of the sealing ring is directed outwards. - The first fastening arrangement and the second fastening arrangement are threaded. - the first support element is radially movable between an interior position and an exterior position, the interior position having a dimension D1, and the exterior position having a dimension D2; and a ratio of D1:D2 between 0.74 and 0.98.

[010] According to one aspect, a filter cartridge is provided comprising: (a) a tubular medium package defining an open inner medium, the tubular medium package having a first end and a second end. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 14 / 144 8 / 71 opposite end; a central longitudinal axis centered on the tubular middle package and passing through the first end and second end; and a displacement arrangement attached to the middle package, the displacement arrangement including at least one fitting protrusion with a front edge and a rear edge.

[011] According to exemplary modalities: - The leading edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the trailing edge. - The rear edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the front edge. The displacement arrangement comprises a plurality of interlocking protrusions. - The tubular half-pack is cylindrical. - a straight line extending between the front edge and the rear edge for at least one or a plurality of docking protrusions is inclined at a non-zero angle and not perpendicular with respect to the longitudinal axis. - The straight line extending between the front edge and the back edge is inclined between 5 and 80 degrees, or 15 and 70 degrees, or 20 and 30 degrees. - at least one or a plurality of the interlocking protrusions is straight. - at least one or a plurality of the interlocking protrusions is not straight. - there is only one interlocking protrusion forming a continuous radial surface. - The continuous radial surface of the interlocking protrusion encircles the middle package. - at least one or a plurality of interlocking protrusions comprises an inclination. - the slope is angled between 5 and 80 degrees, or 15 and 70 degrees, or 20 and 30 degrees. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 15 / 144 9 / 71 degrees. The slope is angled between 100 and 175 degrees, or 105 and 165 degrees, or 150 and 160 degrees. - The filter cartridge has a first end cap attached to the first end of the tubular media package, and at least one or more of the snap-fit ​​protrusions are an integral part of the first end cap. - The first end cap has an external radial surface that defines at least one or a plurality of interlocking protrusions. - The filter cartridge includes a sealing element positioned to form a seal with a cover arrangement; and the first end cap has an external axial surface that secures the sealing element. The first end cap is an open end cap. The filter cartridge also includes a second end cap attached to the second end of the tubular media package. The filter cartridge also includes an outer casing that surrounds the tubular media package, the outer casing extending between the first end cap and a second, opposite end cap. - The displacement arrangement extends to a distal end, having a stepped cross-sectional profile that defines at least one surface in the radial direction and at least one surface in the axial direction. - at least one surface in the radial direction is a radial surface facing outwards. - at least one surface in the radial direction is a radial surface facing inwards. - The stepped cross-section includes a single slope. - The stepped cross-section includes a plurality of slopes. - the distal end also includes an axial extension inserted radially to Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 16 / 144 10 / 71 from the stepped cross-sectional profile.

[012] According to one aspect, a method of maintaining a filter assembly, the filter assembly including an end arrangement and a filter cartridge; the method comprising the steps of: (a) moving the end arrangement having a first support element against a displacement element in order to radially move the first support element; and (b) sealing the end arrangement into the filter cartridge.

[013] Exemplary methods include: Moving the first support element against the displacement element includes moving the first support element against a tilt arrangement. Moving the first support element against the displacement element includes moving the first support element against a live hinge. - The filter cartridge has a first end cap; moving the first support element against the displacement element includes moving the first support element against the displacement element, which is an integral part of the first end cap. - Moving the first support element radially includes moving the first support element outward in a radial direction. - Moving the first support element radially includes moving the first support element radially inward. - Radially moving the first support element includes radially moving an axially rigid and radially flexible spring. Moving the end arrangement includes moving a cover arrangement that secures the first support element. Moving the end arrangement includes moving a filter head that holds the first support element. [ 014] According to one aspect, a filter set is provided Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 17 / 144 11 / 71 comprising: (a) a filter cartridge having a filter medium and a first end cap with an axially disposed sealing element; (b) an end arrangement dimensioned to fit against the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing element; and (c) an anti-rotation arrangement constructed and disposed to prevent the filter cartridge and the cover arrangement from rotating relative to each other.

[015] According to exemplary modalities: - The end arrangement includes a cover. - The cover is fitted in a removable form inside the filter head. The end arrangement comprises a filter head. The anti-rotation arrangement includes a protrusion and receiver arrangement. The protrusion and receiver arrangement is positioned to provide less than full radial support to the sealing element. - The sealing element is supported along at least some locations along an inner, outer, or both inner and outer radial side of the sealing element. The anti-rotation arrangement includes a first set in the filter cartridge and a second set in the end arrangement. - the first set of the anti-rotation arrangement includes: (a) an outer ring of protrusions and receivers that encircles the sealing element; (b) each of the protrusions in the outer ring defines a closed area; (c) each of the receivers in the outer ring defines an open area; and (d) the ratio of open area to closed area is 0.2-1. - The second set of the antirotation arrangement includes: (a) a first cube ring of protrusions and receivers; (b) each of the protrusions in the first cube ring defines a closed area; (c) each of the receivers in the first cube ring defines an open area; and (d) a ratio of the open area of ​​the first cube ring. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 18 / 144 12 / 71 for the enclosed area of ​​the first cube ring is 1-1.3. - The first set of the anti-rotation arrangement in the filter cartridge includes an inner ring of protrusions and receivers in the radial direction inside the sealing element, such that the sealing element is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring. - The second set of the anti-rotation arrangement in the end arrangement includes a second hub ring with protrusions and receivers in the radial direction inside the first hub ring; wherein, when the end arrangement is fitted against the filter cartridge, the sealing element is located between the first hub ring and the second hub ring. - The filter cartridge includes a cartridge thread; and the end arrangement includes an end arrangement thread positioned so as to rotatably engage with the cartridge thread. The first and second sets of anti-rotation arrangements are positioned to fit together before the cartridge threads and end arrangement engage. - The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of the pleated medium that surrounds an inner open filter and extends between the first end cap and a second end cap; and the first end cap has an opening communicating with the inner open filter.

[016] According to one aspect, a filter assembly is provided comprising: (a) an end arrangement including: (i) a cube having a surrounding wall that circumscribes an opening; (ii) the surrounding wall having an axial terminal surface; (iii) an outer cube ring of circumferentially spaced protrusions; and (b) a filter cartridge having a filter medium and an end cap arrangement with a sealing element; the end cap arrangement fitting into the outer cube ring so as to Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 19 / 144 13 / 71 rotatably secure the filter cartridge and end arrangement.

[017] According to exemplary modalities: - The filter cartridge end cap arrangement includes an outer ring protrusion arrangement that fits into the outer hub ring of circumferentially spaced protrusions, the filter cartridge outer ring protrusion arrangement being positioned so as to support the sealing element in the radial direction. The cube also includes an inner cube ring with circumferentially spaced protrusions, the inner cube ring being radially spaced from and surrounded by the outer cube ring. - The filter cartridge end cap arrangement includes an inner ring protrusion arrangement, the inner ring protrusion arrangement extending radially inward from and spaced from the outer ring protrusion arrangement; the sealing element being located between the outer ring protrusion arrangement and the inner ring protrusion arrangement. - The outer ring protrusion arrangement in the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced outer gears; and the inner ring protrusion arrangement in the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced inner gears; the outer gears being dimensioned to fit between the protrusions of the outer hub ring; and the inner gears being dimensioned to fit between the protrusions of the inner hub ring. The number of protrusions on the outer hub ring differs from the number of spaced outer gears on the filter cartridge. - The number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is less than the number of spaced outer gears on the filter cartridge. - the number of protrusions on the inner cube ring is different from Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 20 / 144 14 / 71 is the number of internal gears spaced in the filter cartridge. - The number of protrusions on the inner hub ring is less than the number of internal gears spaced in the filter cartridge. - The number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is equal to the number of external gears spaced in the filter cartridge; and the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring is equal to the number of internal gears spaced in the filter cartridge. The number of protrusions on the outer cube ring is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner cube ring. The number of protrusions on the outer cube ring is different from the number of protrusions on the inner cube ring. The number of externally spaced gears in the filter cartridge is equal to the number of internally spaced gears in the filter cartridge. The number of externally spaced gears in the filter cartridge is different from the number of internally spaced gears in the filter cartridge. - The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of the pleated medium that surrounds an internal open filter and extends between a first end cap and a second end cap; and the end cap arrangement is an integral, one-piece part of the first end cap. - The first end cap has an opening in communication with the internal open filter; the end cap arrangement is located on an axial portion of the first end cap and surrounds the opening; and the opening in the hub is in communication with the opening of the first end cap and the internal open filter. - a housing that removablely holds the filter cartridge, the housing having a threaded housing section; and the end arrangement Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 21 / 144 15 / 71 having a threaded end arrangement section positioned to be connected to the threaded housing section. - There is a distance D1 between the start of the threaded housing section and the end tips of the protrusion arrangement; there is a distance D2 between the start of the threaded end arrangement section and the end tips of the protrusions; and distance D1 is greater than distance D2.

[018] According to another aspect, a filter cartridge is provided comprising: (a) a tubular medium bundle defining an internal open medium, the tubular medium bundle having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) a central longitudinal axis centered in the tubular medium bundle and passing through the first end and second end; (c) an end arrangement attached to the first end of the tubular medium bundle; (d) a sealing element attached to an axial portion of the end arrangement within a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis; and (e) an anti-rotation arrangement to minimize winding of the sealing element when the filter cartridge is attached to a filter cover or filter head.

[019] According to examples: - The anti-rotation arrangement is fixed to or integrated into the end arrangement. - The anti-rotation mechanism is located in the axial portion of the end assembly adjacent to the sealing element. The anti-rotation arrangement includes a plurality of projections located between the sealing element and an outer periphery of the end arrangement. - The plurality of protrusions is separated by the receivers arranged in an outer ring that encircles the sealing element. Each of the protrusions in the outer ring of protrusions defines a closed area; each of the receptors in the outer ring of receptors defines an open area; and the ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2-1.0. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 22 / 144 16 / 71 - The end arrangement further includes an internal series of circumferentially spaced protrusions separated by receivers arranged in an inner ring; the inner ring extending radially inward from and spaced from the outer ring; and the sealing element is located between the outer ring and the inner ring. Each of the protrusions in the inner ring of protrusions defines a closed area; each of the receptors in the inner ring of receptors defines an open area; and the ratio of the open area of ​​the inner ring to the closed area of ​​the inner ring is 0.2-1.0. - The end arrangement comprises a first end cap fixed to the first end of the middle package; the first end cap has a first axial surface oriented outward from the middle package and a second axial surface oriented towards the middle package; and the outer ring, the inner ring and the sealing element are located on the first axial surface. - The first end cap has an open opening communicating with the internal open medium. The inner ring is radially spaced from and circumscribes the open aperture. The outer ring runs along one outer edge of the first end cap. - the number of protrusions on the outer ring of spaced protrusions is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner ring. - the number of protrusions on the outer ring of spaced protrusions is different from the number of protrusions on the inner ring. Each of the protrusions on the outer ring has the same shape as each of the protrusions on the inner ring. Each of the protrusions on the outer ring has a different shape from each of the protrusions on the inner ring. Each of the protrusions on the outer ring has a triangular shape. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 23 / 144 17 / 71 Each of the protrusions on the inner ring has a triangular shape.

[020] According to another aspect, a method is provided for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end arrangement; the filter end arrangement being one of a filter head or filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge mounted in a removable housing; the filter cartridge having a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit the filter end arrangement; the filter end arrangement having a plurality of end arrangement protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit the filter cartridge; the method comprising the steps of: positioning the cartridge protrusions to be at least partially received within the end arrangement receivers, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially towards the end arrangement;After the filter cartridge moves axially toward the end arrangement, engage a thread on the housing with a thread on the end arrangement; and rotate the housing relative to the end arrangement to thread the filter assembly onto the filter end arrangement.

[021] According to an exemplary method, (a) the filter cartridge includes an axially mounted sealing element adjacent to the cartridge protrusions and the receivers; and (b) the step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end arrangement includes radially supporting the sealing element between the cartridge protrusions and the end arrangement protrusions.

[022] According to one example, a filter cartridge may include: a tubular media package defining an internal open medium, the tubular media package having a first end and an opposite second end; a central longitudinal shaft centered in the tubular media package and passing through the first end and the second end; an end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular media package; a sealing element fixed to Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 24 / 144 18 / 71 an axial portion of the end cap; and a first plurality of projections extending in an axial direction from the end cap, the first plurality of projections being provided in a circumferential arrangement and located close to a radial side of the sealing element.

[023] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections circumscribes the sealing element.

[024] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections is circumscribed by the sealing element.

[025] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections extends axially beyond the sealing element.

[026] According to some examples, each of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions has a similar geometry.

[027] According to some examples, the first plurality of saliences includes one or more saliences that are different from one or more other saliences.

[028] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections could have a triangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, a rectangular shape with flat, rounded or pointed ends, or a curved shape.

[029] According to some examples, the first plurality of protrusions has a symmetrical form.

[030] According to some examples, the first plurality of protrusions has an asymmetrical form.

[031] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections is separated by a first plurality of receiver openings.

[032] According to some examples, each of the receiver bays of the first receiver bay plurality has a similar geometry.

[033] According to some examples, the first plurality of receiver bays includes one or more receiver bays different from one or more other bays of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 25 / 144 19 / 71 receiver.

[034] According to some examples, each of the projections of the first plurality of projections has a similar geometry, and each of the receiver openings of the first plurality of receiver openings has a similar geometry.

[035] According to some examples, the circumferential arrangement includes a second plurality of circumferentially arranged protrusions.

[036] According to some examples, the first plurality of projections circumscribes the sealing element, and the sealing element circumscribes the second plurality of projections.

[037] According to some examples, the peaks of the first plurality of protrusions are radially aligned with the peaks of the second plurality of protrusions.

[038] According to some examples, the peaks of the first plurality of protrusions are radially misaligned with the peaks of the second plurality of protrusions.

[039] According to some examples, the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have a geometry similar to the geometry of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

[040] According to some examples, the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have a different geometry from the geometry of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

[041] According to an example of a method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end arrangement, the filter end arrangement may be one of a filter head or filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge mounted removablely in a housing; the filter cartridge having an axially mounted sealing element; the filter end arrangement having a plurality of end arrangement protrusions. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 26 / 144 20 / 71 positioned to fit the filter cartridge may include the steps of positioning the filter cartridge so that the sealing element is at least partially received within the end arrangement protrusions, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end arrangement; after the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end arrangement, fitting a thread of the housing into a thread of the end arrangement; and rotating the housing relative to the end arrangement to thread-connect the filter assembly to the filter end arrangement so that the end arrangement protrusions radially support one side of the filter cartridge sealing element.According to some examples, the arrangement includes a plurality of end-array receivers and the filter cartridge includes a plurality of filter cartridge protrusions, wherein the step of positioning the filter cartridge includes positioning the filter cartridge in such a way that the plurality of filter cartridge protrusions is received by the end-array receivers.

[042] A variety of examples of desirable product features or methods are presented, in part, in the following description, and, in part, these features or methods will become evident from the description, or may be learned by practicing various aspects of the present invention. These aspects of the present invention may refer to individual features as well as to combinations of features. It should be understood that both the preceding general description and the following detailed description are merely explanatory and do not limit the claimed invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[043] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention, including a filter cartridge operationally mounted within a filter container and connected to a Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 27 / 144 21 / 71 filter head, the cross-section being taken along line AA of Figure 2.

[044] Figure 1A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter cartridge illustrated in Figure 1.

[045] Figure 2 is a top plan view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1.

[046] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1, but without the filter cartridge mounted inside.

[047] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a section of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 3.

[048] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a liquid filter assembly, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

[049] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly illustrated in Figure 5.

[050] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge used in the assembly illustrated in Figure 6.

[051] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge illustrated in Figure 7.

[052] Figure 9 is an enlarged portion of the filter cartridge illustrated in Figure 8.

[053] Figure 9A is a perspective and cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the filter cartridge with the tilting surface as a separate piece from the rest of the cartridge end cap.

[054] Figure 10 is an enlarged perspective view of an upper portion of the filter cartridge illustrated in Figure 7.

[055] Figure 11 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 28 / 144 22 / 71 illustrated in Figure 10.

[056] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 5.

[057] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a housing for the liquid filter assembly illustrated in Figure 5.

[058] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the housing illustrated in Figure 13.

[059] Figure 14A is an enlarged view of a portion illustrated in Figure 14.

[060] Figure 15 is a top perspective view of a cover used in the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1.

[061] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the roof illustrated in Figure 15.

[062] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of a pitch of the cover illustrated in Figure 15 oriented over the filter cartridge illustrated in Figure 7.

[063] Figure 18 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the roof illustrated in Figure 15.

[064] Figure 19 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion illustrated in Figure 18.

[065] Figure 20 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the fitting between the filter cover and the filter element.

[066] Figure 21 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 20 in another fitting stage.

[067] Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 5, but without the filter element installed in it. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 29 / 144 23 / 71

[068] Figure 23 is a top cross-sectional view of the assembly illustrated in Figure 22.

[069] Figure 24 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 22 and with the filter element operationally positioned in it, during an assembly step.

[070] Figure 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 24, during another stage of the assembly.

[071] Figure 26 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 25.

[072] Figure 27 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figures 25 and 26, showing the complete assembly.

[073] Figure 28 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 27.

[074] Figure 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a filter assembly, during a step of the assembly.

[075] Figure 30 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 29.

[076] Figure 31 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 29, during another stage of the assembly.

[077] Figure 32 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 31.

[078] Figure 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 29 showing the filter assembly without an operationally installed filter element.

[079] Figure 34 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a filter assembly according to the present invention, including an operationally assembled (fully assembled) filter cartridge within a filter container and Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 30 / 144 24 / 71 connected to a filter head.

[080] Figure 35 is a front elevation view of a portion of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 34, during a step of connecting the filter cartridge and container to the filter head.

[081] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the filter assembly portion illustrated in Figure 35.

[082] Figure 37 is a perspective view of the filter assembly portion illustrated in Figure 36 fully assembled.

[083] Figure 38 is a perspective view of the filter cartridge used in the filter assembly illustrated in Figures 34 to 37.

[084] Figure 39 is a perspective view of the filter head used in the filter assembly illustrated in Figures 34 to 37.

[085] Figure 40 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a filter assembly according to the present invention, including a tank having a filter head and removable cover, a filter cartridge (not visible) being operationally mounted inside the tank and connected to the filter head and cover.

[086] Figure 41 is a perspective and cross-sectional view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 40, showing the filter cartridge operationally mounted inside the tank and connected to the filter head and cover.

[087] Figure 42 is an enlarged view of a portion of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 41.

[088] Figure 43 is a perspective view of portions of the filter cartridge and filter cover illustrated in Figure 40 during a step of the assembly.

[089] Figure 44 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of the filter assembly during a step of connecting the assembly to a head or Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 31 / 144 25 / 71 filter cover.

[090] Figure 45 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of the filter assembly during a step of connecting the assembly to a filter head or cover; and

[091] Figure 46 is a schematic illustration of another embodiment of the filter assembly during a step of connecting the assembly to a filter head or cover.

[092] Figures 47 to 50 show a partial view of an alternatively configured offset arrangement and the extensions usable in any of the filter sets illustrated in this document.

[093] Figures 51 and 52 are schematic plan views illustrating geometric aspects of the protrusion-receiver arrangements for the filter sets illustrated in this document.

[094] Figures 53 and 54 are schematic plan views illustrating other geometric aspects of the receptor-protrusion arrangements for the filter assemblies illustrated in this document.

[095] Figures 55 to 66 are schematic plan views of usable bump-receiver arrangements in any of the filter sets illustrated in this document. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Overview of Exemplary Filter Sets. Figures 1 and 5

[096] Two different arrangements or sets of liquid filters 20 are shown in Figures 1 and 5. Although these sets 20 are constructed and used differently in different filtration systems (as will be explained later), similar reference numerals will be used for similar parts.

[097] The liquid filter assembly 20 includes, operationally positioned Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 32 / 144 26 / 71 in the same, a usable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or cartridge 34 (Figures 1 and 6 to 10). The filter element or cartridge 34 has a first end 82 and a second opposite end 84.

[098] An end arrangement 21 can be positioned in a removable manner over the filter element 34. As used in this document, the end arrangement 21 may include a filter head 24 or a top or cover 28. In the assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 5, the filter head 24 includes a cover 28, positioned in a removable manner over it; whereas in the assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 1, the filter head 24 does not have a removable cover. For a typical liquid filter assembly, the filter head 24 will be a cast element, for example, made of cast aluminum or other material. In the assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 5, the cover 28 is attached to the filter head 24 with a threaded connection 48, to close a service opening, with a sealing element 50.

[099] Assembly 20 may also include a housing 22 having a side wall 30. In use, the side wall 30 extends (hangs down) from the filter head 24. In general, the housing 22 defines an internal volume 32 (Figures 4 and 14), in which selected internal components, as defined, are contained and certain filtering and flow operations occur.

[0100] In this document, the terms superior, above and below refer to the set 20, when oriented for normal use, that is, when in the orientation illustrated in Figures 1 and 5. These terms, by themselves, are not intended to be limiting or to have any other definition.

[0101] The typical usable filter cartridge 34 further includes, as described below, an end cap arrangement 36 at the first end 82, which may be incorporated as a first end cap or top end cap 38, which provides a preferred mounting and sealing of the usable filter cartridge 34 to the filter head 24 within the filter assembly. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 33 / 144 27 / 71 liquid 20. The second end 84 of the filter cartridge 34 includes a second end cap 39.

[0102] In general, the usable filter cartridge 34 includes the first end cap 38 (the upper end in use). The first end cap 38, for the particular embodiment illustrated, is mounted on one end (the upper end in use) of the filter cartridge 34. The first end cap 38 includes an end cap portion 52 which, for example, may be a molded element attached (i.e., encapsulated) to the filter cartridge 34. The end cap portion 52 includes a central opening 54 for the passage of a liquid to be directed to or from the end arrangement 21.

[0103] End cap 38 can be molded from a variety of moldable plastic materials, for example, a polyamide (PA). As an example, a glass-filled polyamide (15 to 30% glass filler by weight) is usable. It can also be molded as a metal part.

[0104] The filter cartridge 34 includes a filter medium 56, sometimes referred to herein as medium pack 56. The medium 56 may be a pleated medium 58 contained within a pleated net or similar structure, with pleats extending between the first end cap 38 and the second opposite end cap 39.

[0105] The middle package 56, as shown in exemplary embodiments, is generally tubular and encloses an open volume. The tubular middle package 56 is illustrated in cylindrical form. A central longitudinal axis 90 is centered within the middle package 56 and passes through the first end 82 of element 34 and the second end 84 of element 34.

[0106] The typical operation of assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 1 is generally as follows: The filter head 24 includes a fluid inlet channel 40, which Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 34 / 144 Assembly 28 / 71 receives a dirty fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows to the filter head 24 and then to an unfiltered liquid volume 23, which is the volume between the side wall 30 and the filter medium 56. From there, the fluid passes through the filter medium 56 (herein referred to as a filter stream), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. The fluid enters a filtered liquid volume 25, which is located within the medium package 56. From there, the filtered liquid flows through the opening 54 of the first end cap 38 and into the filter head 24. The liquid exits the filter head 24 through an outlet channel 27. The above describes a direct flow operation (from outside to inside). In some cases, assembly 20 may also operate in a reverse flow operation, in which the flow is from inside to outside.

[0107] The typical operation of the assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 5 is generally as follows. The filter head 24 generally includes a body 26 with fluid channels 40, 42. The fluid channel 40 can typically be an inlet 40 or an inlet arrangement. The fluid channel 42 can be a bypass channel. The liquid to be filtered is directed to the inlet arrangement 40. The unfiltered liquid in this case will flow into an unfiltered liquid volume 44, inside the filter cartridge 34. In general, the volume 44 is an unfiltered liquid volume, since the liquid received in it will generally be received directly from a circulation circuit, and will not be filtered and will require filtration. In normal operation, starting from the unfiltered liquid volume 44, the liquid is passed through the filter cartridge 34 to a filtered volume 46 that surrounds the filter cartridge 34 (a filtration flow).From the filtered volume 46, the liquid can exit the filter cartridge 34 into the tank in which the cartridge 34 is inserted. Although alternatives are possible, it should be noted that the assembly illustrated in Figure 5 does not include a central vertical tube projecting into the cartridge 34.

[0108] The second end cap 39 illustrated in Figure 1 is Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 35 / 144 29 / 71 closed. In general, the second end cap 39 can be either closed or open. As illustrated in Figure 6, a sealing element 59 rests against an external radial surface of the second end cap 39 and forms an outward-directed radial seal with the side wall 30 of the housing 22.

[0109] In some assemblies, it may be desirable to provide the filter cartridge 34 with an external downstream coating 60 (Figure 6), such as a plastic or porous metal coating. For the direct flow assembly illustrated in Figure 1, the downstream coating 29 is an internal coating 29 that encloses the volume of filtered liquid 25 inside the medium package 56.

[0110] As illustrated in Figure 1, the filter element 34 includes a sealing element 31. The sealing element 31 is radially directed so as to form a seal with a portion of the filter head 24. In the example shown, the sealing element 31 is secured by a sealing support protrusion 33 that extends axially from the first end cap 38 in a direction outward from the filter media package 56 and towards the filter head 24. The sealing element 31 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 23 and the filtered liquid volume 25. The sealing element 31 is radially positioned between a radial position of the upstream and downstream ends of the pleated media 58.

[0111] As illustrated in Figure 7, the filter element 34 includes a sealing element 92 fixed to an axial portion 94 of the end cap assembly 36 within a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis 90. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sealing element 92 is oriented in the axial portion 94 of the first end cap 38. As shown in Figure 9, the axial portion 94 supporting the sealing element 92 is arranged orthogonally to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. However, the axial portion 94 may have a truncated cone shape inclined at an angle towards the axis. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 36 / 144 30 / 71 longitudinal or away from it, in such a way that the axial portion is positioned at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0112] According to some embodiments, and as shown in Figures 7, 10 and 11, there may be an optional anti-rotation arrangement 98. The anti-rotation arrangement 98 is provided to minimize or prevent the sealing element 92 from curling up when the filter element 34 is attached to a filter cover 28. The anti-rotation arrangement 98 will be described in more detail below. Overview of the Installation Method. Figure 12

[0113] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram providing an overview of a method for installing the filter cartridge 34 in the housing 22, for each of the assemblies in Figure 1 and Figure 5.

[0114] The assembly 20 includes a first support element 62 and a second support element 63. The first support element 62 and the second support element 63 are able to rest on their respective surfaces / fitting regions 62a, 63a (Figures 3, 4, 16, 22) when the assembly 20 is in a first condition and are prevented from resting when the assembly 20 is in a second condition.

[0115] Set 20 also includes a transition arrangement 64. The transition arrangement 64 allows the transition of set 20 between the first condition and the second condition.

[0116] In general, the first condition prevents the end arrangement 21 from fully connecting to a remaining portion of the assembly 20, such as the filter head 24 or the housing 22. The second condition allows full connection between the end arrangement 21 and the remaining portion of the assembly. By full connection, it is understood that, if there is a threaded fitting, a sufficient number of threads will be fastened so as to ensure that all sealing elements are in place to form seals in the intended locations. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 37 / 144 31 / 71

[0117] Although many embodiments are possible, the first support element 62 includes a flexible radial element 66. In Figure 12, the flexible radial element is shown in dashed lines moving radially along arrow 68. According to preferred implementations, the first support element 62 is axially rigid. By axially rigid, it is understood that, along a direction perpendicular to a plane containing the direction of radial flexibility 7, the first support element 62 becomes rigid and does not move under normal compressive or tensile force. By normal compressive or tensile force, it is understood that forces are not so extreme as to damage or break the first support element 62.

[0118] The first condition includes the flexible radial element 66 having a first external dimension, and the second condition includes the flexible radial element 66 having a second external dimension. According to some examples, the first external dimension is smaller than the second external dimension. In other examples, the first external dimension is larger than the second external dimension.

[0119] According to some implementations, the flexible radial element 66 includes a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70. There may be many embodiments, including a spiral spring, or a flat spring, or a clock spring, or a flat spring bent to form only a partial (incomplete) circuit, or a tension coil.

[0120] According to some exemplary embodiments, at rest (not under force), the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is in its first smaller external dimension. In other embodiments, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, at rest (not under force), is in its second larger external dimension.

[0121] The flexible radial element 66 is an integral part of the assembly 20. In the exemplary embodiments shown, the flexible radial element 66 is connected to the end arrangement 21, which may include the filter head 24 or the cover. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 38 / 144 32 / 71 28. It should be noted that the flexible radial element 66 may also be connected to other parts of the assembly 20.

[0122] The transition arrangement 64 is mechanically associated with the filter element 34. For example, the transition arrangement 64 includes a displacement arrangement or element 72 attached to the middle package 56. In some embodiments, the transition arrangement 64 could also be a separate part independent of the filter element 34.

[0123] An exemplary embodiment of the displacement arrangement 72 is shown in Figures 1A and 9. The displacement arrangement 72 includes a docking protrusion 74 with a front edge 76 and a rear edge 78. In the example in Figure 1A, the rear edge 78 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 (Figure 1) than the front edge 76. In the example in Figure 9, the front edge 76 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 than the rear edge 78.

[0124] The interlocking projection 74 may be a continuous radial surface or a discontinuous radial surface. In the example shown in Figure 1A, the interlocking projection 74 is radially continuous. The interlocking projection 74 may also include at least one span and, in some cases, a plurality of spans. In the example in Figure 9, the interlocking projection 74 is continuous and uninterrupted along the circumference.

[0125] The mounting protrusion 74 may be straight or have other shapes (curved, irregular, etc.). In the example in Figure 9, the mounting protrusion 74 is shown as straight and forms an 80° slope (or 80° slope arrangement) on the filter element 34. The 80° slope projects radially from the first end 82 of the filter element 34. In the example in Figure 1, the mounting protrusion 74 is straight and forms a straight 80° slope arrangement on the filter element 34. According to some examples, the mounting protrusion 74 is not straight and forms a curved 80° slope arrangement on the filter element 34. In Figure 1, the arrangement of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 39 / 144 33 / 71 inclination 80 projects radially from the first end 82 of the filter element, and the leading edge 76 projects over or above an end surface of the first end cap 38.

[0126] In Figure 1, the flexible radial element 66 slides against the tilting arrangement 80 to move the flexible radial element 66 to an inward radial position. When the flexible radial element 66 is a spring 70 and is arranged as shown in Figure 1, the spring 70 moves inward radially when fitted against the tilting arrangement 80, and the spring 70 returns to its rest position to move outward radially (Figure 4) when free from contact with the tilting arrangement 80.

[0127] In Figures 6 and 17, the flexible radial element 66 slides against the inclination 80 to move the flexible radial element 66 to an outward position in the radial direction. When the flexible radial element 66 is a spring 70 and is arranged as shown in Figures 6 and 17, the spring 70 moves radially outward when fitted against the inclination 80, and the spring 70 returns to its rest position to move again radially inward when free from contact with the inclination 80.

[0128] The inclination 80 has an angled inclination surface 86 as measured along a surface between endpoints at a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle 88 (Figure 1A and Figure 9) with respect to the longitudinal axis 90 and with respect to a line 90a parallel to the longitudinal axis 90. In Figure 1A, the inclination surface 86 is angled at a minimum of 5 degrees to ensure that the spring 70 is displaced radially inwardly sufficiently to ensure that the filter head 24 can fit into the housing 22. The inclination surface 86 is angled at a maximum of 80 degrees to ensure that the spring 70 is displaced radially. Typically, the inclination surface 86 is inclined at an angle 88 between 5 and 80 degrees. In many cases, the angle 88 will be 15 Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 40 / 144 34 / 71 to 75 degrees. Preferably, the 88 angle is between 30 and 40 degrees.

[0129] In Figure 9, the tilting surface 86 is inclined at an angle 88 of at least 5 degrees to ensure that the spring 70 moves radially sufficiently to ensure that the cover 28 can move so as to fit with the housing 22. The tilting surface 86 is inclined at an angle 88 not greater than 80 degrees so as to ensure that the spring 70 does not move radially. In preferred arrangements, the tilting surface 86 is inclined at an angle 88 between 5 and 80 degrees; preferably between about 15 and 70 degrees, or typically between about 20 and 30 degrees.

[0130] In preferred arrangements, the tilting surface 86 is an integral part of the first end cap arrangement 36. As shown in Figures 1 and 9, the tilting surface 86 is part of the first end cap 38. Thus, when the first end cap 38 is molded, the tilting surface 86 can be a molded part with the remainder of the first end cap 38. In Figure 9A, the tilting surface 86 is a separate part 86a from the remainder of an end cap 38a. This separate part 86a can be fitted or engaged with the end cap 38a.

[0131] Figures 1 and 5 show the filter assembly 20 with the filter element 34 correctly positioned within the housing 22, and with the end arrangement 21 mounted or connected (threaded) onto the remainder of the assembly. Figures 17 and 25 to 28 show the steps for mounting the cover 28 onto the filter element 34. In Figures 17 and 25 to 28, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 engages with the tilting surface 86 and is displaced radially from the smaller dimension to the larger dimension. This radial displacement of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 will allow the cover 28 to move axially toward the element 34 and deeper into the filter head 24. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 41 / 144 35 / 71 (Figures 6 and 27), which will then allow the threaded connection 48 to fit between the head 24 and the cover 28. In Figure 1, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 fits into the tilting surface 86 and is displaced radially inward from the larger dimension to the smaller dimension. This radial displacement of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 will allow the filter head 24 to move axially towards the housing 22, which will then allow the threaded connection 48 to fit between the head 24 and the housing 22.

[0132] If the filter element 34 did not include the tilting surface 86 with a suitable shape, or if an element was missing from the assembly 20, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 would not move radially, and the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 would rest on the second support element 63. This support would prevent the end arrangement 21 from moving further into the threaded connection 48.

[0133] For example, in Figures 3 and 4, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 rests on a protruding relief or ridge 35 that extends radially inward from the side wall 30 of the housing 22, preventing the filter head 24 from moving further into the housing 22 and blocking the threaded fitting 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. This is explained in more detail below, with reference to the description of Figures 1 to 4.

[0134] In the example shown in Figures 13, 14, 14A and 22, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 rests on an extension 141 that extends axially from an end construction 151 in the housing 22, preventing the filter head 24 from moving further into the housing 22 and locking the threaded fitting 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. This will be explained in more detail below, with reference to the description of the tank filter assembly illustrated in Figures 5, 6 and 15 to 17. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 42 / 144 36 / 71 Example of a Cartridge-Container Arrangement. Figures 1 to 4

[0135] Assembly 20 in Figures 1 to 4 is a cartridge-container arrangement 300. In the cartridge-container arrangement 300, the filter cartridge (or filter element) 34 is removable and replaceable within the housing 22. The housing 22 is a container 302 that can be selectively coupled or uncoupled from the filter head 24. In this example, the container 302 has threads 304 (Figure 3) along an outer surface of the side wall 30 and adjacent to an open mouth 306 (Figure 1). The threads 304 then connect in a threaded manner with the threads 308 (Figure 3) of the filter head 24.

[0136] Although the example shown is a cartridge-container arrangement 300, according to alternative embodiments, the arrangement could also be a threaded assembly, in which the element is a permanent part of the housing and cannot be removed from it. Alternatively, the combination of housing and element forms a unit that is threaded onto the filter head. For maintenance purposes, the housing and element as a whole are discarded and replaced in the filter head.

[0137] Again with reference to Figures 1 to 3, at one end 318 of the container 302 opposite the mouth 306, the container 302 has an open opening 320. The open opening 320 may accommodate a drain valve or other structure.

[0138] The filter head 24 has an outer wall 102 surrounding an open interior 104. Along an inner surface 310 of the wall 102 are the threads 308 of the filter head 24. The filter head 24 has a container receiving opening 312 that is defined by the wall 102 and sized to receive the container 302 for threaded fitting.

[0139] Container 302 contains a sealing element 314 to form a releasable seal with the filter head 24. In this example, the element of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 43 / 144 37 / 71 seal 314 is directed radially outward, or away from the longitudinal axis 90. The sealing element 314 is adjacent to a terminal end of the side wall 30 of the housing 22.

[0140] Below the threads 304 of the container 302 there is a radially designed stop flange 316. The flange 316 provides a stop surface or support surface to receive a terminal end of the filter head 24. The threads 304 are located axially between the stop flange 316 and the sealing element 314.

[0141] The filter head 24 includes an inner wall 322 (Figure 3). The sealing element 31 of the filter element 34 forms a removable seal with the wall 322. In the example shown, the sealing element 31 is directed outward in a radial direction so as to form the seal along an inner radial surface of the wall 322. According to other embodiments, the sealing element 31 may be directed inward radially against an outer portion of the wall 322.

[0142] Along the inner surface of the side wall 30 of the container 302 and adjacent to the mouth 306 there is a relief or projection extending inward 35. The projection 35 comprises the second support element 63 and provides a fitting region / surface 63a to receive the first support element 62. In the example shown in Figure 4, the projection 35 is part of the inner wall 322 of the container 302, and is recessed into a remaining portion of the inner wall 322 in the region extending from a terminal end 328 of the container 302 to a point 330 (Figure 3) spaced from the terminal end 328. The point 330 is typically at a distance less than 10% of the total length of the side wall 30 from the terminal end 328.

[0143] The first support element 62, shown as a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, is represented in Figures 1 to 4 fixed Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, pp. 44 / 144 38 / 71 to filter head 24. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has openings that accommodate two or more rods 122 (Figure 4) that project radially inward from the wall 102 of the filter head 24. Thus, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is mounted in a sliding manner on the plurality of rods 122. The rods are shown including a head to aid in retaining the spring 70, but may also be provided without heads in some arrangements and configurations. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is circumscribed by the wall 102 and is radially spaced from and circumscribes the inner wall 322 of the filter head 24.The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has a fitting region / surface 62a, which is the terminal end of the spring 70, and it fits into or rests against the protrusion 35 (Figures 3 and 4) on the fitting surface 63a, when there is an attempt to connect the filter head 24 and the container 302, but there is no filter element - or an unsuitable filter element - installed in the container 302. This fitting of the spring 70 with the protrusion 35 prevents the threads 308 of the filter head 24 from connecting with the threads 304 of the filter container 302.

[0144] When the appropriate filter element 34 is inside the filter container 302, the displacement element 72 (Figure 1A) will engage with the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 to move the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 in the internal radial direction. This allows the filter head 24 to move into a threaded fit or connection with the threads 304 and the filter container 302, forming a seal between the sealing element 31 and the inner wall 322; and forming a seal between the sealing element 314 (Figure 1) and the filter head 24. Example of a Filter Assembly in a Tank; Figures 5, 6, 15 to 17

[0145] The assembly 20 illustrated in Figures 5 and 6 is a 400 tank filter arrangement. 400 tank filter arrangements are typically used in Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 45 / 144 39 / 71 hydraulic systems and are submerged in a hydraulic oil tank to keep the oil clean and free of debris. In many typical arrangements, the 400 filter-in-tank arrangement is used to filter a fluid before it leaves the tank to enter a pump inlet line.

[0146] Next, with reference to Figures 5, 6 and 22 to 27, the tank filter arrangement 400 includes a filter head 24. The filter head 24 has a wall 102 surrounding the open interior 104 and fluid channels (e.g., 40, 42). The filter head 24 has a first fastening arrangement 106 along the wall 102. The first fastening arrangement 106 is shown as the threads 108 that are part of the threaded connection 48. The wall 102 has first and second opposite ends 111, 112, each of the first and second ends 111, 112 being open.

[0147] The filter head 24 includes a flange 154 contained within a plane generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 90. The flange 154 has holes 156 (e.g., Figure 23) that receive screws so that the filter head 24 can be attached to a fluid tank.

[0148] Figures 15 and 16 show an exemplary embodiment of the cover 28. The cover 28 is designed to be positioned in a removable manner inside 104 of the filter head 24. The cover 28 includes a central hub 114 that encloses a fluid conduit 116 communicating with the fluid channels 40, 42 of the filter head 24. A second fastening arrangement 118 is constructed and arranged for a removable connection with the first fastening arrangement 106. The second fastening arrangement 118 includes threads 120 for coupling to the threads 108.

[0149] The first support element 62, shown as the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, is illustrated here as fixed to the cover 28. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has openings that accommodate two or more rods 122 that project radially from the hub. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 46 / 144 40 / 71 114. Thus, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is mounted in a sliding manner on the plurality of rods 122. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 circumscribes the central hub 114 and moves radially in response to the force against the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 by the displacement element 72.

[0150] Next, with reference to Figure 16, the cover 28 includes a closed cover element 126 having an outer radial surface 128 that defines the second fastening arrangement 118. A sealing ring 130 is axially spaced from the cover element 126. The sealing ring 130 contains a radially oriented sealing element 132 and is positioned so as to form a seal with the filter head 24.

[0151] The sealing ring 130 has a first axial surface 134 and a second opposite axial surface 136. The first axial surface 134 faces the cover element 126. The central hub 114 extends from the second axial surface 136.

[0152] In the example shown, the central hub 114 has an outer diameter of 50 to 80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring 130. As shown, the radially oriented sealing element 132 of the sealing ring 130 is directed outwards.

[0153] According to exemplary embodiments, the first support element 62 (for example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 according to an example) is radially movable between an interior position and an exterior position; the interior position has a dimension (when round, a diameter) D1. The exterior position has a dimension (when round, a diameter) D2. A ratio of D1:D2 is between 0.74 and 0.98. An example of where the diameters D1 and D2 are measured is shown in Figures 30 and 32. In Figure 30, D1 is the dimension that passes through the geometric center point and is tangent to the innermost region of the spring. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 47 / 144 41 / 71 radially flexible and axially rigid 70. In Figure 32, D2 is the dimension that passes through the geometric center point and is tangent to the outermost region of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70.

[0154] An exemplary embodiment of the side wall 30 of the housing 22 is shown in Figures 13 and 14. The side wall 30 has an open mouth 140 and an opposite closed end 142. The open mouth 140 receives the filter element 34 inside.

[0155] The side wall 30 is illustrated as tubular, specifically cylindrical, and extends between the mouth 140 and the closed end 142. The side wall includes a first perforated section 144 that operates as a strainer 146. Extending between the first section 144 and the closed end 142 is a second section 148. The second section 148 has a smaller diameter than the first section 144. The second section 148 is less than 50% the length of the first section 144.

[0156] The first section 144 is shown containing an optional second stage of filter medium 150. The filter medium 150 may be a pleated medium or another type of medium. The second stage of filter medium 150 is radially spaced from the medium bundle 56 of element 34. In the exemplary arrangement shown, the second stage of filter medium 150 circumscribes the medium bundle 56 and has a total length between 50 and 90% of the medium bundle 56. Many alternatives will be possible.

[0157] At one end of the side wall 30, there is an end construction 151. The filter medium 150 is attached to the end construction 151. The end construction 151 includes an axially projecting seal support ring 153, which extends along an outer perimeter of the end construction 151 and circumscribes the mouth 140. The seal support ring 153 contains a sealing element 152 around the outer surface that Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, pp. 48 / 144 42 / 71 encircles mouth 140. In the example shown, the sealing element 152 is directed outwards in a radial direction. The sealing element 152 forms a seal with the filter head 24 (see Figure 6).

[0158] The end construction 151 further includes one or more extensions 141 that project axially from it, away from the filter medium 150 and along an inner perimeter of the end construction 151 and an inner diameter of the filter medium 150. The extensions 141 are shorter in length than the sealing support ring 153. The sealing support ring 153 encircles the extensions 141 and is radially spaced from them so as to provide a receiving cavity 155 (Figure 14A) between them. The end construction 151 has a fitting surface 157 at a closed end of the receiving cavity 155. The fitting surface 157 lies along an outer surface of the end construction 151 on an opposite side of the filter medium 150.The fitting surface 157 provides a surface for the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 to fit into when the assembly is in the second condition – that is, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5, after the spring 70 has flexed outward in the radial direction so as to allow the end arrangement 21 (such as the cover 28) to move downward in order to place the sealing elements 132 and 50 in their intended positions and form seals with the filter head 24; and to allow a threaded connection between the cover 28 and the filter head 24.

[0159] Extensions 141 may include at least one and, in the embodiment shown, includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced extensions 141.

[0160] Each of the extensions 141 includes a terminal end 158, which is the free end of the extensions 141 spaced from the fitting surface 157 and the filter medium 150. The terminal ends 158 are positioned to form the second support element 63 that fits against the first. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 49 / 144 43 / 71 support element 62, when assembly 20 is in the first condition. The first condition prevents the end arrangement 21 (in this case, the cover 28) from fully connecting with a remaining portion of assembly 20 (in this case, the filter head 24).

[0161] As shown in Figure 22, when there is no filter cartridge 34 installed in housing 22, there will be no transition arrangement 64 to allow the transition of assembly 20 to the second condition. That is, there will be no displacement arrangement 72 (Figure 9) to radially flex the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, in this example, from a first (smaller) outer dimension to a second (larger) outer dimension. Thus, one end of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 rests on (fits against) the terminal ends 158 of the extensions 141. This support is shown by the arrows 159 illustrated in Figure 22.When the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 rests on the terminal ends 158 of the extensions, the cover 28 will be prevented from moving downwards into the filter head 24; preventing the threaded fit between the threads 120 of the cover 28 and the threads 108 of the filter head 24, leaving a gap 147a between them. The sealing elements 50 and 132 are prevented from forming seals with the filter head 24. Figure 23 is a top view, showing the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 in its first (smaller) outer dimension.

[0162] Figures 24 and 25 show the assembly steps of the filter assembly 20. The filter cartridge 34 is properly and operationally installed in the housing 22, with the sealing element 150 forming a seal with the filter head 24. In Figure 24, the cover 28 is initially lowered into its position on the filter head 24. There is a connection between the spring 70 and the rear edge 78 of the displacement arrangement 72, which begins to move the spring outward in the radial direction (see arrow 161). The space between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown in Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 50 / 144 44 / 71 gap 147b, which is too large for a threaded fitting. In Figures 25 and 26, spring 70 flexes outward radially as cover 28 with spring 70 continues to move deeper into filter head 24, making gap 147b smaller, but still too large for a threaded fitting. Spring 70 moves into receiving cavity 155 (Figure 14A) in a direction toward fitting surface 157.

[0163] Figures 27 and 28 show the complete assembly. The cover 28 and the filter head 24 are connected to each other, and the seals 50 and 132 are positioned between the cover 28 and the filter head 24. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is located inside the receiving cavity 155 and can be fitted against (or near) the fitting surface 157. Figure 28 shows the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 in its second (larger) outer dimension. Alternative Modality. Figures 20 and 21

[0164] Figures 20 and 21 show an alternative embodiment of the filter assembly 20. In this embodiment, the displacement element 72 includes a live hinge 160. The live hinge 160 is attached to the end cap arrangement 36. For example, the live hinge 160 may be an integrally molded piece of the first end cap 38 along the outer radial circumference.

[0165] The movable hinge 160 includes a first and second leg 162, 164, generally oriented perpendicular to each other. A hinge pivot point 166 is located at the intersection of the legs 162, 164.

[0166] In Figure 20, the first leg 162 is vertically oriented so as to be generally parallel to the longitudinal axis 90, while the second leg 164 is oriented horizontally.

[0167] When the cover 28 is oriented over the filter element 34, the first support element 62 (e.g., the radially flexible spring and Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 51 / 144 45 / 71 axially rigid 70) passes over the first leg 162 (the vertically oriented leg 162) so as to encircle the first leg 162. One end 168 of the first support element 62 (for example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70) rests against or fits into the second leg 164 (the horizontally oriented leg 164).

[0168] In Figure 21, as the first support element 62 (e.g., spring 70) makes contact with the second horizontally oriented leg 164, the first vertically oriented leg 162 rotates about a pivot point 166 outward in the radial direction, pushing the first support element 62 (e.g., spring 70) outward in the radial direction. The further down the second leg 164 is pushed, the further the first leg 162 will push the first support element 62 (e.g., spring 70) outward. This radial displacement of spring 70 will allow the cover 28 to move axially toward element 34 and deeper into the filter head 24 (Figure 6), thus allowing the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the cover 28 to engage. Alternative Modality. Figures 29 to 33

[0169] Figures 29 to 33 show an alternative embodiment. Although similar to assembly 20 of Figures 22 to 28, the first support element 62 in this embodiment is a radially flexible and axially rigid flat spring 71. The flat spring 71 is shaped to form a partial casing and will therefore include a gap 73 between the terminal ends 71a and 71b (see Figures 30 and 32).

[0170] The flat spring 71, in the embodiment shown, is a non-circular elastic strip 71'. According to the example shown, the elastic strip 71' has a plurality of straight segments 75 that intersect with adjacent segments 75 at vertices 77, forming an open polygon with a gap 73. Although many variations are possible, in this non-limiting example shown, the open polygon shape is an octagon, with eight segments 75 and a gap 73 between them. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 52 / 144 46 / 71 ends 71a, 71b.

[0171] When assembly 20 moves between the first condition and the second condition, the flat spring 71 bends outward in the radial direction, from the first outer dimension (Figures 30 and 33) to the second (larger) outer dimension (Figure 32). This radial bending increases the distance between the ends 71a and 71b to increase the span 73.

[0172] Figures 29 and 30 illustrate the initial pre-elastic engagement between the flat spring 71 and the displacement arrangement 72. The filter cartridge 34 is properly and operationally installed in the housing 22, with the sealing element 150 forming a seal with the filter head 24. As illustrated in Figure 29, the cover 28 is initially lowered into position on the filter head 24. There is engagement between the flat spring 71 and the displacement arrangement 72, which begins to move the flat spring 71 outward in the radial direction. The gap between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown in the gap 147b, which is too large for a threaded engagement.

[0173] Figures 31 and 32 show the complete assembly. The cover 28 and the filter head 24 are connected to each other, and the seals 50 and 132 are positioned between the cover 28 and the filter head 24. The radially flexible and axially rigid flat spring 71 is located inside the receiving cavity 155 (Figure 14A) and can be fitted against (or near) the fitting surface 157. Figure 32 shows the radially flexible and axially rigid flat spring 71 in its second (larger) outer dimension.

[0174] As shown in Figure 33, when there is no filter cartridge 34 installed in housing 22, there will be no transition arrangement 64 to allow the transition of assembly 20 to the second condition. That is, there will be no displacement arrangement 72 (Figure 9) to radially flex the radially flexible and axially rigid flat spring 71 in this example, from a first (smaller) outer dimension to a second (larger) outer dimension. Therefore, a Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 53 / 144 47 / 71 The flat spring end 71 will rest on (fit against) the terminal ends 158 of the extensions 141. When the flat spring 71 rests on the terminal ends 158 of the extensions, the cover 28 is prevented from moving downwards into the filter head 24; preventing a threaded fit between the threads 120 on the cover 28 and the threads 108 on the filter head 24, leaving a gap 147a between them. The sealing elements 50 and 132 are prevented from forming seals with the filter head 24. Example of Anti-rotation Arrangement 98. Figures 10, 16, 18, 19

[0175] As mentioned above, assembly 20 may include an optional anti-rotation arrangement 98. The anti-rotation arrangement 98 minimizes or prevents the sealing element 92 from being rolled or extruded when the filter cartridge 34 is attached to the filter cover 28.

[0176] The anti-rotation arrangement 98 includes a filter element portion 200 that is fixed or integral to the end cap arrangement 36. Typically, and as shown, the anti-rotation arrangement 98, which is portion 200 in the filter element 34, is a part integrally molded into the first end cap 38.

[0177] As shown in Figure 10, portion 200 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap arrangement 36 adjacent to the sealing element 92. Preferably, the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located in a position such as to provide at least some lateral support to the sealing element 92.

[0178] According to many preferred implementations, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located between the sealing element 92 and an outer periphery 170 or edge of the end cap arrangement 36.

[0179] In the example shown, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 lies along the outer periphery 170 of the first cap of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 54 / 144 48 / 71 end 38. The filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 may include a plurality of protrusions 204. The protrusions 204 may be separated by the receivers 206. The protrusions 204 and the receivers 206 form an outer ring 208 that circumscribes the sealing element 92. When positioned here, the protrusions 204 are arranged so as to provide at least some lateral support to the sealing element 92, especially when the filter element 34 has a filter flow from inside the filter medium 56 to outside the filter medium 56. If the filter flow is reversed (i.e., from outside to inside), the protrusions 204 will be provided in a ring within the sealing element 92.

[0180] Although many modalities are possible, each of the protrusions 204 of the outer ring 208 defines a closed area, while each of the receptors 206 of the outer ring 208 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2-1.0.

[0181] Next, with reference to Figures 16, 18 and 19, part of the antirotation arrangement 98 may include a filter cover portion 210. The filter cover portion 210 includes a first cube ring 211 of protrusions 212 and receivers 214. Each of the protrusions 212 of the first cube ring 211 defines a closed area, while each of the receivers 214 of the first cube ring 211 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area of ​​the first cube ring 211 to the closed area of ​​the first cube ring 211 is 1-1.3.

[0182] In many examples, the receivers 206 / 214 of the element portion 200 and the cover portion 210 are positioned and sized to receive the protrusions 204 / 212 in the element portion 200 and the cover portion 210. However, the fit does not need to be exact, and the receivers 206 / 214 may have a larger size, shape, and area compared to the protrusions 204 / 212. Together, the protrusions 204, 212 and the receivers 206, 214 define a protrusion and receiver arrangement. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 55 / 144 49 / 71

[0183] According to exemplary embodiments, the protrusions 204, 212 are circumferentially spaced, with the receptors 206, 214 between them. In some cases, the protrusions 204, 212 alternate uniformly with the receptors 206, 214.

[0184] According to preferred implementations, the filter element portion 200 further includes an inner ring 216 with protrusions 217 and receivers 218 in the radial direction inside the sealing element 92, such that the sealing element 92 is positioned between the outer ring 208 and the inner ring 216. The inner ring 216 and the outer ring 208 are oriented on the axial surface 94 of the first end cap 38 oriented outwards from the middle package 56. Each of the protrusions 217 of the inner ring 216 defines a closed area, and each of the receivers 218 of the inner ring 216 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area of ​​the inner ring 216 to the closed area of ​​the inner ring 216 is 0.2-1.0.

[0185] The inner ring 216 encircles the open opening 54 in the first end cap 38 in this example. The inner ring 216 is typically spaced radially from the opening 54.

[0186] Similarly, the cover portion 210 includes a second hub ring 220 with protrusions 221 and receivers 222 in the radial direction inside the first hub ring 211. When the cover 28 is fitted against the filter cartridge 34, the sealing element 92 lies between the first hub ring 211 and the second hub ring 220. Each of the protrusions 221 of the second hub ring 220 defines a closed area, and each of the receivers 222 of the second hub ring 220 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the second hub ring 220 is 1-1.3.

[0187] The number of protrusions 204, 212, 217, 221 may be the same or different from each other, or some protrusions may have the same number while others may have different numbers. For example, the number of rings Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 56 / 144 50 / 71 external 208 of the protrusions 204 may be equal to or different from the quantity of protrusions 217 of the inner ring 216. Similarly, the quantity of the first cube ring 211 of the protrusions 212 may be equal to or different from the quantity of the second cube ring 220 of the protrusions 221. The quantity of protrusions 204 may be equal to the quantity of protrusions 212.

[0188] The amplitude (height) of the protrusions 204, 212, 217, 221 may be equal to each other, different from each other, or some may be equal while others may have different amplitudes. For example, protrusions 204 and 217 may be equal or different. Protrusions 212 and 221 may be equal or different.

[0189] The perimeter shape of protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be the same or different from each other, or some may be the same and others different. For example, protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be gears 230, 232, 234, and 236 of a rectangular or generally triangular shape. The shape of receivers 206, 214, 218, and 222 may be the same as or different from protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221, including generally rectangular or triangular. Furthermore, protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 and receivers 206, 214, 218, and 222 may have a wavy shape, including a sinusoidal wave shape, for example.

[0190] In use, the end cap arrangement 36 of element portion 200 fits into the first hub ring 211 so as to rotatably secure the filter cartridge 34 and the cover 28. Example of Anti-rotation Arrangement 98. Figures 34 to 39

[0191] Figures 34 to 39 illustrate another embodiment of a filter assembly 420. The filter assembly 420 includes, operationally positioned therein, a usable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or cartridge 434. The filter element or cartridge 434 has a first end 482 and a second opposite end 484.

[0192] A 421 end arrangement can be positioned in such a way Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 57 / 144 51 / 71 removable over the filter element 434. In assembly 420, the end arrangement 421 is a filter head 424. Typically, the filter head 424 will be a cast element, for example, made of cast aluminum or other material.

[0193] The assembly 420 further includes a container / housing 422 with a side wall 430. In use, the side wall 430 extends (hangs down) from the filter head 424. In general, the container 422 defines an internal volume 432 in which selected internal components, as defined, are contained and certain filtration and flow operations occur. The container 422 has an open mouth 427 through which the filter cartridge 434 can be inserted and removed. The open mouth 427 is also a portion of the container 422 that connects removablely to the filter head 424. The filter assembly 420 may also be referred to as a container-cartridge assembly 420.

[0194] A typical usable filter cartridge 434 further includes, as described below, an end cap arrangement 436 at the first end 482 which may be incorporated as a first end cap or top end cap 438, which provides a preferred mounting and sealing of the usable filter cartridge 434 to the filter head 424. The second end 484 of the filter cartridge 434 includes a second end cap 439.

[0195] The first end cap 438 includes a central opening 454 for the passage of a liquid through it to be directed to or from the filter head 424.

[0196] The end cap 438 can be molded from a variety of moldable plastic materials, for example, a polyamide (PA). As an example, a glass-filled polyamide (15-30% glass filler by weight) is usable. It can also be molded as a metal part.

[0197] Filter cartridge 434 includes filter media 456, sometimes here Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 58 / 144 52 / 71 referred to as the middle package 456. The middle 456 may be a pleated middle 458 contained within a pleated net or similar structure, with pleats extending between the first end cap 438 and the second opposite end cap 439.

[0198] The 456 medium pack, as shown in exemplary embodiments, is generally tubular and surrounds an open volume. The tubular 456 medium pack is illustrated in a cylindrical shape. A central longitudinal axis 490 is centered within the 456 medium pack and passes through the first end 482 of the cartridge 434 and the second end 484 of the cartridge 434.

[0199] The typical operation of the assembly 420 illustrated in Figure 34 is generally as follows: The filter head 424 receives a dirty fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows into the filter head 424 and then into an unfiltered liquid volume 423, which is the volume between the side wall 430 and the filter medium 456. From there, the fluid passes through the filter medium 456 (hereinafter referred to as the filter flow), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. The fluid enters a filtered liquid volume 425 which is located within the medium package 456. From there, the filtered liquid flows through the opening 454 of the first end cap 438 and into the filter head 424. The same exits the filter head 424 for use in the system. The above describes a direct flow operation (from outside to inside). In some cases, the 420 assembly may also operate in a reverse flow operation, in which the flow is from the inside out.

[0200] The second end cap 439 illustrated in Figure 34 is closed. In general, the second end cap 439 may be closed or open. The assembly 420 illustrated in Figure 34 has a valve assembly 426 in the container 422 opposite the open mouth 427. The valve assembly 426 can be used to drain the water collected from the bottom of the container 422. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 59 / 144 53 / 71

[0201] The filter cartridge 434 includes a sealing element 492 fixed to an axial portion 494 of the end cap arrangement 436 within a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis 490. According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the sealing element 492 is oriented in the axial portion 494 of the first end cap 438. The sealing element 492 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 423 and the filtered liquid volume 425. The sealing element 492 is positioned radially between a radial position of the upstream and downstream ends of the pleated medium 458.

[0202] Assembly 420 includes an anti-rotation arrangement 98 provided to minimize or prevent the sealing element 492 from curling up when the filter cartridge 434 is attached to the filter head 424. The anti-rotation arrangement 98 is similar to the arrangement previously described.

[0203] The anti-rotation arrangement 98 includes a filter element portion 500 (Figures 35 and 38) that is attached to or an integral part of the end cap arrangement 436. Typically, and as shown, the portion 500 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 on the filter element 434 is an integrally molded piece of the first end cap 438.

[0204] As shown in Figure 35, portion 500 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap arrangement 436 and adjacent to the sealing element 492. Preferably, the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located in a position such as to provide at least some radial support to the axial portion 494. It should be noted that the sealing element 492 is not shown in Figures 35 to 38 for clarity and that the sealing element 492 would be present in an actual installation, as illustrated in Figure 34. According to preferred implementations, the sealing element 492 is supported along at least some locations along an inner or outer radial side, or both inner and outer, of the sealing element 492. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 60 / 144 54 / 71

[0205] According to many preferred implementations, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 is located between the sealing element 492 and an outer periphery 570 or edge of the end cap arrangement 436.

[0206] In the example shown, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 lies along the outer periphery 570 of the first end cap 438. The filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation arrangement 98 may include a plurality of protrusions 504. The protrusions 504 may be separated by receivers 506. The protrusions 504 and the receivers 506 form an outer ring 508 that circumscribes the sealing element 492. When positioned here, the protrusions 504 are arranged so as to provide at least some radial support to the sealing element 492, especially when the filter element 434 has a filtering flow from inside the filter medium 456 to outside the filter medium 456. If the filtering flow is reversed (i.e., from outside to inside), the protrusions 504 will be provided in a ring. inside the sealing element 492.

[0207] Although many modalities are possible, each of the protrusions 504 of the outer ring 508 defines a closed area, while each of the receptors 506 of the outer ring 508 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the outer ring 508 is 0.2-1.0.

[0208] Part of the antirotation arrangement 98 may include a filter head portion 510 (Figure 39). The filter head portion 510 includes a first cube ring 511 with protrusions 512 and receivers 514. Each of the protrusions 512 of the first cube ring 511 defines a closed area, while each of the receivers 514 of the first cube ring 511 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area of ​​the first cube ring 511 to the closed area of ​​the first cube ring 511 is 1-1.3.

[0209] In many examples, the protrusions associated with the element portion Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 61 / 144 55 / 71 500 are received by the receptors in the head portion 510, while the protrusions associated with the head portion 510 are received by the receptors in the element portion 500. For example, and as illustrated, the receptors 506 / 514 in the element portion 500 and in the head portion 510 are positioned and sized to receive the protrusions 504 / 512 in the element portion 500 and in the head portion 510. However, this adjustment does not need to be exact, and the receptors 506, 514 may have larger size, shape, and area compared to the protrusions 504, 512, for example, as illustrated later in Figures 55 to 66. Together, the protrusions 504, 512 and the receptors 506, 514 define a protrusion-receptor arrangement.

[0210] According to exemplary embodiments, the 504 and 512 prominences are circumferentially spaced, with receptors 506 and 514 between them. In some cases, the 504 and 512 prominences alternate uniformly with receptors 506 and 514, as described below with respect to Figure 51.

[0211] According to preferred implementations, the filter element portion 500 further includes an inner ring 516 with protrusions 517 and receivers 518 in the radial direction inside the sealing element 492, such that the sealing element 492 is positioned between the outer ring 508 and the inner ring 516. The inner ring 516 and the outer ring 508 are oriented on the axial surface 94 of the first end cap 438 oriented outwards from the middle package 56. Each of the protrusions 517 of the inner ring 516 defines a closed area, and each of the receivers 518 of the inner ring 516 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area of ​​the inner ring 516 to the closed area of ​​the inner ring 516 is 0.2-1.0.

[0212] In this example, the inner ring 516 encircles the open opening 454 in the first end cap 438. The inner ring 516 is typically radially spaced from the opening 454.

[0213] Similarly, the head portion 510 includes a second ring Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 62 / 144 56 / 71 of hub 520 with protrusions 521 and receivers 522 in the inner radial direction of the first hub ring 511. When the filter head 424 is fitted against the filter cartridge 434, the sealing element 492 is positioned between the first hub ring 511 and the second hub ring 520. Each of the protrusions 521 of the second hub ring 520 defines a closed area, and each of the receivers 522 of the second hub ring 520 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the second hub ring 520 is 1-1.3.

[0214] The number of protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 may be equal to or different from each other, or some protrusions may have the same number while others may have different numbers. For example, the number of protrusions 504 on the outer ring 508 may be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 517 on the inner ring 516. Similarly, the number of protrusions 512 on the outer ring 511 may be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 521 on the inner cube ring 520. The number of protrusions 504 may be equal to the number of protrusions 512.

[0215] The amplitude (height) of the protrusions 504, 512, 517, 521 may be equal or different from each other, or some may have the same height and others may have different heights. For example, protrusions 504 and 517 may be equal or different. Protrusions 512 and 521 may be equal or different.

[0216] The perimeter shape of protrusions 504, 512, 517, 521 may be the same, different, or some protrusions may have the same shape while others are different. For example, protrusions 504, 512, 517, 521 may be teeth or gears with a variety of shapes, generally including triangular, rectangular, wavy (including the shape of a sine wave, etc.). The shape of receivers 506, 514, 518, 522 could be the same as or different from protrusions 504, 512, 517, 521.

[0217] In use, the end cap arrangement 436 of the portion of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 63 / 144 57 / 71 element 500 fits with the outer hub ring 511 so as to rotatably hold the filter cartridge 434 and the filter head 424. Tank Filter Assembly, Figures 40 to 43

[0218] Another embodiment is illustrated in Figures 40 to 43 as a tank filter assembly 600, including a tank 602 having a filter head 604 and a removable lid 606. A filter cartridge 610 can be seen in Figure 41 operationally mounted inside the tank 602 and connected to the filter head 604 and the lid 606. The tank filter assembly 600 is similar to assembly 20 illustrated in Figure 5 and a description of its characteristics will not be repeated here, but is incorporated for reference.

[0219] The filter assembly 600 includes an axially mounted sealing element 92 (Figures 42, 43) and includes an anti-rotation arrangement 98 provided so as to minimize or prevent the sealing element 92 from curling up when the filter cartridge 610 is attached to the filter head 604. The anti-rotation arrangement 98 is similar to the arrangements previously described. Thus, the anti-rotation arrangement 98 includes, in the filter cartridge 610: alternating protrusions 204 and receivers 206 forming the outer ring 208; and the protrusions 217 and the receivers 218 of the inner ring 216 in the radial direction inside the sealing element 92 so that the sealing element 92 is arranged radially between the outer ring 208 and the inner ring 216. In the filter cover 606, the anti-rotation arrangement 98 includes: alternating protrusions 212 and receivers 214 of the first hub ring 211; and the protrusions 221 and receivers 222 of the second hub ring 220 (Figures 18, 19).

[0220] In Figure 43, each of the protrusions 204, 212, 216, 221 and the receivers 206, 212, 214, 218 is illustrated as having a generally triangular shape. Other shapes are possible. It should be noted that in Figure 43, certain components, such as the spring, are not shown for illustrative purposes.

[0221] Example of a Filter Set Connection Method Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 64 / 144 58 / 71

[0222] The above components are usable in a method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end arrangement. The filter end arrangement may be a filter head or filter cover. The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge mounted removablely in a housing and has a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit the filter end arrangement. The filter end arrangement has a plurality of end arrangement protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit the filter cartridge. The method includes the step of positioning the cartridge protrusions to be at least partially received within the end arrangement receivers, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end arrangement.After the filter cartridge moves axially toward the end arrangement, a thread on the housing engages with a thread on the end arrangement. The method further includes the step of rotating the housing relative to the end arrangement in order to thread the filter assembly onto the filter end arrangement.

[0223] According to another exemplary method, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge mounted removablely in a housing and has a sealing element configured for attachment to a filter end arrangement having a plurality of end arrangement protrusions positioned so as to radially support the filter cartridge sealing element. The method includes the step of positioning the cartridge sealing element so that it is at least partially received by the end arrangement protrusions, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end arrangement. After the filter cartridge moves axially toward the end arrangement, a thread of the housing engages with a thread of the end arrangement. The method further includes the step of rotating the housing relative to the end arrangement so as to thread-connect the Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 65 / 144 59 / 71 filter assembly to filter end arrangement.

[0224] This method is useful for ensuring that the filter cartridge protrusions / receivers engage with the filter head or cover receivers / protrusions before the corresponding threads are fitted. This arrangement will minimize the likelihood of the filter cartridge and head or cover protrusions locking or jamming.

[0225] Examples of preferred arrangements are schematically illustrated in Figures 44 to 46. In these illustrations, the filter head or cover is shown with the numerical reference 702, having threads or a threaded section 704, and a plurality of protrusions 706 with free ends 708. The cartridge is shown with the numerical reference 710, oriented in a removable manner in a housing or container 712. The housing or container 712 has threads or a threaded section 714. The cartridge 710 has a plurality of protrusions 716 with free ends 718.

[0226] Dimension D1 is the distance measured from the starting point of the threaded section 714 in the housing / container 712 to the free ends 718 of the cartridge protrusions 716. Dimension D2 is the distance measured from the starting point of the threaded section 704 of the filter head / cover 702 to the free ends 708 of the protrusions 706.

[0227] To reduce or minimize the possibility of end-to-end locking or jamming of the opposing ends 708, 718 during installation, the protrusions may be arranged in such a way that the ends 708, 718 move axially relative to each other before the threads 704, 718 engage or contact. Such an arrangement may be achieved by making dimension D1 different from dimension D2 such that an axial overlap distance D3 results between the ends 708, 718 when the ends of the threads 704, 718 are touching but not yet engaged. For example, Figure 44 shows a configuration in which the protrusions 716 of the cartridge 710 are fitted into the container / housing 712, with dimension D1 being approximately 2.17 cm (0.88 Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 66 / 144 60 / 71 inch) and is smaller than dimension D2, which is about 2.24 cm (0.93 inch). In another example, illustrated in Figure 45, a configuration is shown in which the protrusions 706 are fitted into the filter head / cover 702, where D1 is about 2.31 cm (0.91 inch), and is larger than D2, which is about 1.98 cm (0.78 inch). In another example, illustrated in Figure 46, a configuration is shown in which the protrusions 706, 716 are positioned within a threaded region of the filter head / cover 702, where D1 is about 0.79 cm (0.31 inch) and is larger than D2, which is about 0.66 cm (0.26 inch). With the arrangements above, the resulting overlap distance D3, which is the difference between D1 and D2, varies from 0.13 cm (0.05 inch) to 0.33 cm (0.13 inch). However, other overlap distances will be possible. Alternative Displacement Arrangement and Extension Elements of Figures 47 to 50

[0228] With reference to Figures 47 to 50, an arrangement using an offset arrangement 72 and alternative extension elements 141 is shown. The characteristics of the arrangements in Figures 47 to 50 are shown primarily with respect to the filter assembly arrangement illustrated in Figures 34 to 46, but are not limited to them, and may also be used in other arrangements as described in this document.

[0229] As shown in Figures 47 to 50, and as illustrated in other embodiments described in this document, the end construction 151 includes a plurality of extension elements 141 spaced apart and axially extended and supported on the displacement arrangement 72. According to some characterizations, the extension elements 141 can be collectively referred to as forming a castellated shape, with crenellations and / or parapets. When the filter element 34 associated with the displacement 72 and the housing 22 associated with the extension elements 141 are fully assembled together, Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 67 / 144 61 / 71 open spaces or passages are formed between the terminal end of the displacement arrangement 72 and the adjacent extension elements 141. With such an arrangement, a diversion flow and a drainage flow from the box will be permitted through these open spaces. However, in contrast to other embodiments previously presented, the extension elements 141 will be provided with a terminal end 158 that includes a step feature instead of the planar configuration previously shown. This step feature interacts cooperatively with a similarly shaped step feature located at a terminal end 81 of the displacement arrangement 72.As most easily observed in Figure 49, the terminal end 158 is provided with axial surfaces 158a, 158c and internal radial surfaces 158b, 158d, forming a first stepped profile, while the terminal end 81 is provided with axial surfaces 81a, 81c, 81e and outward-facing radial surfaces 81b, 81d, forming a second cooperative stepped profile. With this arrangement, the first and second stepped profiles can fit together or couple in such a way that the surfaces 81a / 158a and 81c / 158c and 81b, 158b support each other to form a secure radial and axial connection.Furthermore, surface 81d, which is shown to have a slight taper, will be able to act as a guide feature after initial installation, providing an oblique surface that can interact with the corner formed by surfaces 158c, 158d to center or locate the filter element 34 in relation to the housing 22, such that the first profile and the stepped profile can be easily fitted into a joint 83. It should be noted that the stepped profiles can be alternated between the component parts, such that the end 81 is provided with radially facing surfaces facing the radially facing surfaces provided on the end 158.

[0230] According to one aspect, the first and second profiles Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 68 / 144 The staggered 62 / 71, through their fittings, can ensure that the filter element 34 is precisely located or centered with respect to the housing 22. This feature, therefore, advantageously ensures that the tilting surface 86 of the displacement arrangement 72 is fully aligned with a tilting surface 141a of the extension elements along the entire outer circumference of the displacement arrangement 72. Since the spring 70 initially slides along the tilting surface 86 and then slides along the tilting surface 141a during installation, it will be beneficial to avoid a condition in which any portion of the terminal end surface 158a is exposed or radially outside the displacement arrangement 72.Otherwise, such exposed portion may undesirably act as a support or backing surface against the axial end of spring 70, even if filter element 34 has been correctly installed in housing 22. It should be noted that the inclined surface 141a may be radially inserted from the inclined surface 86 in order to avoid such a potential condition, instead of being perfectly aligned with the inclined surface 86. It should also be noted that the angles of the inclined surfaces 86, 141a may be equal or different. Although the first and second stepped profiles each include two axial surfaces and one radial surface to essentially form a single-step arrangement, additional axial and radial surfaces may be provided to result in a multiple stepped profile.Furthermore, it will also be possible that only some of the extension elements 141 are provided with a stepped profile, while others may be provided with a planar end surface and an axial end surface at a relatively lower height. For example, an arrangement may be provided in which some extension elements will have the profile shown in Figure 49, while others may be provided only with the axial surface 158c, or with an even lower surface, defining the terminal end of the extension elements. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 69 / 144 63 / 71 Geometry of the Protrusion and Receiver Arrangement and Other Examples from Figures 51 to 66

[0231] As already presented above, the filter cartridge protrusions 204, 217, 504, 517, 716; the filter cartridge receivers 206, 218, 506, 518; the filter head or cover protrusions 212, 221, 512, 521, 706; and the filter head or cover receivers 214, 222, 514, 522 can be provided with a variety of shapes and arrangements, in addition to those already described in Figures 1 to 46. Figures 47 to 58 illustrate only some of these possible variations, in which the filter cartridge protrusions P1, the filter cartridge receivers R1, the filter head or cover protrusions P2, and the filter head or cover receivers R2 are schematically presented and usable with any of the protrusions and receivers shown and described in this document. For illustrative purposes, these figures are presented as partial, planar schematic views of the protrusions and receivers.

[0232] Although many examples are described and illustrated in this document, it should be noted that some arrangements and configurations may be more preferable or include certain advantages, at least for certain installations. For example, configurations that include protrusions with sharp points may minimize surface contact and beneficially reduce interlocking between protrusions during installation. Furthermore, side walls of protrusions and receivers provided with relatively inclined side walls may induce near-vertical compression, while side walls provided with relatively less inclined side walls may help facilitate alignment between the two opposing parts. According to some configurations, symmetrical protrusions and receivers with an open-to-closed area ratio close to 1 will be advantageous in assisting with interlocking and reducing interlocking between protrusions during installation.For a specific project. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 70 / 144 64 / 71 of receptor-spanning, these aspects can be balanced until a system with optimal performance is obtained.

[0233] As previously indicated, the filter cartridge and filter head or cover protrusions and receivers may, respectively, define closed and open areas. Figure 51 presents these schematic characteristics with numerical references A-P1 and A-R1 for filter cartridge F and with numerical references A-P2 and A-R2 for filter head or cover H. A sealing support surface S1 is also schematically illustrated for filter cartridge F. In some of the examples described above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the filter cartridge receiver to the closed area of ​​the filter cartridge protrusion, which can be characterized as being A-R1 to A-P1, is 0.4 to 1.6. However, other ranges are possible.For example, the A-R1 to A-P1 ratio for the inner and / or outer ring could be, for example, a ratio of 0.2 to 1.8; a ratio of 0.7 to 1.8; a ratio of 0.8 to 1.0; a ratio of 1 to 1.8; a ratio of 1 to 1; a ratio greater than 1; or a ratio less than 1. In some of the examples described above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the head receiver or filter cover to the closed area of ​​the head protrusion or filter cover, which can be characterized as A-R2 to A-P2, is 0.48 to 1.5. However, other ranges are possible. For example, the AR2 to A-P2 ratio for the inner and / or outer ring could be, for example, a ratio of 1 to 1.3; a ratio of 0.2 to 1.7; a ratio of 0.97 to 0.98; a ratio of 1 to 1; a ratio greater than 1; or a ratio less than 1.In some configurations, symmetrical protrusions and receivers with a ratio close to 1.0 will be advantageous in terms of aiding in the meshing and reducing jamming between protrusions P1 and P2 during installation.

[0234] With reference to Figure 52, a schematic view is shown illustrating the portions of the sealing surface S1 and / or the seal supported on Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 71 / 144 65 / 71 same that are supported or unsupported in a radial direction by the P1 protrusions of one or both of the outer rings OR and the inner ring IR. As shown in Figure 52, the sealing support surface S1 is radially supported by each of the P1 protrusions along a length L1 and is not supported by each of the P1 protrusions along a length L2, and the sum of the lengths L1, L2 is equal to the length between a common point between the adjacent P1 protrusions. Also shown in Figure 52 is an angle α1 representing the angle between the side walls of the illustrated P1 protrusions and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. According to some examples, the lengths L1 and L2 are generally equal to each other. According to some examples, L1 is greater than L2. According to some examples, L2 is greater than L1.The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 in the filter element could be approximately 0.05 and 1.5 according to some examples, between approximately 0.1 and 1.3 according to some examples, and / or between approximately 0.2 and 0.9 according to some examples. The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 on the cover or head side could be approximately 0.1 and 1.4 according to some examples, between approximately 0.2 and 1.2 according to some examples, and / or between approximately 0.4 and 0.8 according to some examples. According to some examples, the angle a1 is 30 degrees and 75 degrees. According to some examples, the angle a1 is approximately 60 degrees. According to some examples, the angle a1 is approximately 45 degrees.

[0235] With reference to Figures 53 and 54, a schematic top plan view of exemplary protrusion and receiver arrangements in a filter cartridge, showing an outer ring OR with protrusions P1 and receivers R1, an inner ring IR with protrusions P1 and receivers R1, and a sealing support surface S1 disposed between them. From this view, it can be observed that the supported length L1 corresponds to a radial angle α2, the unsupported length L2 Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 72 / 144 66 / 71 corresponds to a radial angle a3, and the total length L3 corresponds to a radial angle a4. As with lengths L1 and L2, according to some examples, angles a2 and a3 are equal; according to some examples, a2 is greater than a3, and according to some examples, a3 is greater than a2. The ratio of the unsupported length angle a3 to the supported length angle a2 in the filter element and the cover or head could be about 0.25 and 1.75 according to some examples, between about 0.5 and 1.5 according to some examples, and / or about 1 according to some examples. In the example shown in Figure 53, the peaks of the P1 protrusions associated with the inner and outer rings IR, OR are radially aligned with each other, while in Figure 54, the peaks of the inner ring OR protrusions are displaced by an angle a5 with respect to the peaks of the outer ring OR protrusions P1. According to one example, angle a5 varies from 0 to 30 degrees.According to some examples, a5 is equal to half the angle a4, so that the peaks of the inner ring IR protrusions are radially aligned with the R1 receptor cavities of the outer ring OR. In other words, the peaks of the P1 protrusions of the inner ring IR are radially aligned at a point midway between the adjacent peaks of the P1 protrusions of the outer ring OR.

[0236] With reference to Figures 55 to 66, other exemplary configurations for the protrusions and receivers are illustrated. In Figure 55, an example is provided in which the number of protrusions and receivers P1, R1 of the filter cartridge F does not correspond to the number of protrusions and receivers P2, R2 for the filter head or cover H. In the specific example shown, the number of protrusions and receivers P1, R1 is less than the number of protrusions and receivers P2, R2, but the reverse is also possible.

[0237] With reference to Figure 56, an example is provided in which the P1 protrusions and R2 receptors have a different shape compared Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 73 / 144 67 / 71 with the P2 protrusions and R1 receptors. In the example shown, the P1 protrusions and R2 receptors have a triangular shape, while the P2 protrusions and R1 receptors have a trapezoidal shape. The reverse configuration is also possible, as are many other combinations.

[0238] With reference to Figures 57 to 60, further examples of possible shapes for the protrusions and receptors are provided. Figure 57 shows an example in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receptors R1, R2 have a trapezoidal shape. Figure 58 shows an example in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receptors R1, R2 have a curved, wavy, or sinusoidal shape. Figure 59 shows an example in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receptors R1, R2 have a rectangular shape. Figure 60 shows an example in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receptors R1, R2 have a rectangular shape with pointed ends. Rounded ends may also be provided. Other configurations and shapes are possible.

[0239] With reference to Figure 61, a configuration is shown in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receivers R1, R2 have an asymmetrical shape. In the example shown, the protrusions and receivers have a sawtooth shape. Other configurations and shapes will be possible.

[0240] With reference to Figure 62, a configuration is shown in which the adjacent protrusions P1, P2 and the receivers R1, R2 are different from each other. In the example shown, the protrusions and receivers have three triangles of different sizes and shapes, with different circumferential widths and different axial lengths or depths. More or fewer different shapes and / or sizes may be provided, in a repetitive pattern or without any specific pattern, resulting in a rotational symmetry that varies from a single-fold rotational symmetry to as many orders of symmetry as desired.

[0241] With reference to Figures 63 and 64, configurations are shown in Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, pp. 74 / 144 68 / 71 where the sealing support surface S1 is arranged at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge F. Figure 63 shows a configuration in which the protrusions and receivers remain arranged along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge, while Figure 64 shows a configuration in which the protrusions and receivers are also oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. With such an arrangement, the filter head sealing surface will be similarly angled or arranged in such a way that a proper seal is formed with the obliquely oriented sealing element supported by the sealing surface S1.

[0242] With the configurations shown in Figures 62 to 65, it may be that the filter cartridge F can only be received by the cover or head H in a limited number of rotational positions or even in only a single rotational position. In such cases, the filter cartridge F and / or the cover or head H may be provided with rotational alignment features, including those of the type known in the art. For example, alignment features of the type shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 11,839,842, entitled Liquid Filter Assemblies; Features; Components; and Methods, issued December 12, 2023, may be incorporated into the filter assemblies illustrated herein. U.S. Patent No. 11,839,842 is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

[0243] With regard to Figure 65, another example is provided in which at least a portion of the sealing support surface is provided at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. In this example, the sealing support surface S1 is provided with a wavy or sinusoidal shape with axial deviation. Consequently, a seal mounted on the sealing support surface S1 will also be provided with a similar shape. The opposite surface on the filter head, against which the element of Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 75 / 144 69 / 71 sealing forms a seal, and will also be provided with a similar shape. It should be noted that the fit between the protrusions P1, P2 ensures that the filter cartridge F can only be installed in one of several predefined angular orientations, such that the corrugated sealing element always aligns with the corrugated sealing surface on the filter head in order to produce a proper seal. In the example shown, the peaks of the sealing support surface S1 are aligned with the receivers R1, but they can be arranged to align with the peaks of the protrusions P1. In the example shown, the sealing support surface S1 has a number of peaks equal to the number of protrusions P1, but it will be possible to provide more or fewer peaks. In the example shown, the sealing support surface is provided with a uniform corrugated profile, but it can also be provided with an irregular or asymmetrical profile.

[0244] With reference to Figure 66, an example is provided illustrating that the filter element protrusions F can be of different sizes and shapes with respect to the receivers. According to one aspect, the filter element protrusions P1 have a maximum width W1 and a maximum height H1 so as to define a first area A1, while the receivers R2 of the cover or head H have a width W2 and a height H1 so as to define an area A2. In the example shown, the height H1 is less than the height H2, while the width W1 is less than the width W2, and the area A1 is less than the area A2. According to some examples, the heights H1 and H2 are generally equal, while the width W1 is less than the width W2, resulting in an area A1 that is smaller than the area A2. According to some examples, widths W1 and W2 are generally equal, while height H1 is less than height H2, resulting in an area A1 that is smaller than area A2.As illustrated in Figure 66, the P1 protrusions may have a similar or different shape from the receptors. For example, the left side of Figure 66 shows triangular P1 and R1 protrusions, while the right side of Figure 66 shows... Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 76 / 144 70 / 71 rounded P1 protrusions and triangular R1 receivers. Many other possible combinations of R1 receivers and P1 protrusions with different shapes will be possible, provided that the area A1 of the P1 protrusions remains smaller than the area A2 of the R1 receivers and as long as the perimeter or boundary edges of the R1 receivers are able to circumscribe the perimeter or boundary edges of the P1 protrusions. According to some examples, the ratio of area A1 to area A2 is between 0 and 1 according to some examples, between 0.25 and 0.75 according to some examples, and about 0.5 in other examples. According to another aspect, the sealing material SM can be characterized as having an unsupported area A3 defined as the area of ​​the sealing material SM not covered by or adjacent to the P1 protrusions.According to some examples, the ratio of area A3 to the total radial surface area of ​​the sealing element SM, on the side of the protrusions P1, could be 0 and 1 according to some examples, between 0.25 and 0.75 according to some examples, and about 0.5 in other examples. When the ratio is 1, all support for the sealing material SM will be provided by the protrusions P2 associated with the cover or head H, since there is a configuration in which the protrusions P1 are not provided or do not overlap the sealing material SM. Although configurations in which the protrusions P1 have a smaller area than the corresponding receivers R2, or in which the protrusions P1 are not provided or are provided in a location where they do not support the sealing element, result in less radial support for the sealing material SM in an installed condition, such arrangements may still be satisfactory for certain installation and operating conditions.Furthermore, an advantage of providing P1 protrusions with a smaller area than the corresponding R2 receivers is that less precise initial alignment between the filter element and the cover may be required.

[0245] The above principles represent exemplary principles. Many Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 77 / 144 71 / 71 other modalities may be made using these principles. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 78 / 144

Claims

1 / 15 CLAIMS 1. Filter assembly, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: (a) a filter cartridge with a filter medium and a first end cap that secures an axially arranged sealing element; (b) an end arrangement dimensioned so as to fit against the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing element; and (c) an anti-rotation arrangement constructed and arranged to prevent the filter cartridge and the end arrangement from rotating relative to each other.

2. Filter assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the end arrangement comprises a cover.

3. Filter assembly, according to claim 2, CHARACTERIZED in that it further includes a filter head, the cover of which is received in a removable manner inside the filter head.

4. Filter assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the end arrangement comprises a filter head.

5. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 4, CHARACTERIZED in that the anti-rotation arrangement includes a protrusion and receiver arrangement.

6. Filter assembly, according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED in that the arrangement of the protrusion and receiver is positioned to provide less than full radial support to the sealing element.

7. Filter assembly according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED in that the sealing element is supported along at least some locations along an inner or outer radial side, or both inner and outer, of the sealing element. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 79 / 144 2 / 15 8. Filter assembly, according to claim 7, CHARACTERIZED in that the anti-rotation arrangement includes a first assembly in the filter cartridge and a second assembly in the end arrangement.

9. Filter assembly, according to claim 8, CHARACTERIZED in that the first set of the anti-rotation arrangement includes: (a) an outer ring of protrusions and receivers that encircles the sealing element; (b) wherein each of the protrusions in the outer ring defines a closed area; (c) wherein each of the receivers in the outer ring defines an open area; and (d) wherein the ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2-1.

10. Filter assembly, according to claim 9, CHARACTERIZED in that the second set of the anti-rotation arrangement includes: (a) a first cube ring of protrusions and receivers; (b) wherein each of the protrusions in the first cube ring defines a closed area; (c) wherein each of the receivers in the first cube ring defines an open area; and (d) wherein the ratio of the open area of ​​the first cube ring to the closed area of ​​the first cube ring is 1-1.

3.

11. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 9 and 10, CHARACTERIZED in that the first part of the anti-rotation arrangement in the filter cartridge includes an inner ring of protrusions and receivers in the radial direction inside the sealing element, such that the sealing element is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 80 / 144 3 / 15 12. Filter assembly, according to claim 11, CHARACTERIZED in that the second set of the anti-rotation arrangement in the end arrangement includes a second hub ring with protrusions and receivers in the inner radial direction of the first hub ring, such that, when the end arrangement is fitted against the filter cartridge, the sealing element is located between the first hub ring and the second hub ring.

13. Filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 12, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the filter cartridge includes a cartridge thread; and (b) the end arrangement includes an end arrangement thread positioned so as to rotatably fit into the cartridge thread.

14. Filter assembly, according to claim 13, CHARACTERIZED in that the first and second assemblies of the anti-rotation arrangement are positioned so as to mesh before the cartridge thread and end arrangement threads mesh.

15. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 1 to 14, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of pleated medium enclosing an inner open filter and extending between the first end cap and a second end cap; and (b) the first end cap has an opening communicating with the inner open filter.

16. Filter assembly, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: (a) an end arrangement including: (i) a cube having a surrounding wall that circumscribes an opening; (ii) the surrounding wall having an axial terminal surface; Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 81 / 144 4 / 15 (iii) an outer cube ring with circumferentially spaced protrusions; and (b) a filter cartridge with a filter medium and an end cap arrangement with a sealing element, the end cap arrangement fitting into the outer cube ring so as to rotatably secure the filter cartridge and the end arrangement.

17. Filter assembly, according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED in that the end cap arrangement includes an outer ring protrusion arrangement that fits into the outer hub ring of circumferentially spaced protrusions, the outer ring protrusion arrangement of the filter cartridge being positioned so as to radially support the sealing element.

18. Filter assembly, according to claim 16, CHARACTERIZED in that the cube further includes an inner cube ring with circumferentially spaced protrusions, the inner cube ring being radially spaced from and surrounded by the outer cube ring.

19. Filter assembly according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED in that the end cap arrangement includes an inner ring protrusion arrangement, the inner ring protrusion arrangement extending radially inward from and spaced from the outer ring protrusion arrangement, wherein the sealing element is situated between the outer ring protrusion arrangement and the inner ring protrusion arrangement.

20. Filter assembly according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the outer ring protrusion arrangement on the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced outer gears; and (b) the inner ring protrusion arrangement on the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of circumferentially spaced inner gears; Petition 870250091164, dated 10 / 06 / 2025, page 82 / 144 5 / 15 (c) wherein the outer gears are dimensioned to fit between the outer hub ring protrusions; and the inner gears are dimensioned to fit between the inner hub ring protrusions.

21. Filter assembly, according to claim 20, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is different from the number of external gears spaced on the filter cartridge.

22. Filter assembly, according to claim 20, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is less than the number of external gears spaced on the filter cartridge.

23. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 22, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring is different from the number of internal gears spaced in the filter cartridge.

24. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 22, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring is less than the number of internal gears spaced in the filter cartridge.

25. Filter assembly according to claim 20, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is equal to the number of spaced outer gears on the filter cartridge; and (b) the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring is equal to the number of spaced inner gears on the filter cartridge.

26. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 25, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 83 / 144 6 / 15 27. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 25, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the outer hub ring is different from the number of protrusions on the inner hub ring.

28. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 25, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of externally spaced gears in the filter cartridge is equal to the number of internally spaced gears in the filter cartridge.

29. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 20 to 25, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of externally spaced gears in the filter cartridge is different from the number of internally spaced gears in the filter cartridge.

30. Filter assembly, according to any one of claims 16 to 29, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of pleated medium enclosing an internal open filter and extending between a first end cap and a second end cap; and (b) the end cap arrangement is an integral part of the one-piece first end cap.

31. Filter assembly according to claim 30, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the first end cap has an opening communicating with the internal open filter; (b) the end cap arrangement is located on an axial portion of the first end cap and circumscribes the opening; and (c) the opening in the hub communicates with the opening of the first end cap and the internal open filter. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 84 / 144 7 / 15 32. Filter assembly according to claim 17, CHARACTERIZED in that it further comprises: (a) a housing that removablely holds the filter cartridge, the housing having a threaded housing section; and (b) the end arrangement having a threaded end arrangement section positioned to be connected to the threaded housing section.

33. Filter assembly according to claim 32, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) there is a distance D1 between the beginning of the threaded housing section and the end tips of the protrusion arrangement; (b) there is a distance D2 between the beginning of the threaded end arrangement section and the end tips of the protrusions; and (c) the distance D1 is greater than the distance D2.

34. Filter cartridge, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: (a) a tubular medium package defining an internal open medium, the tubular medium package having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) a central longitudinal axis centered in the tubular medium package and passing through the first end and the second end; (c) an end arrangement fixed to the first end of the tubular medium package; (d) a sealing element fixed to an axial portion of the end arrangement; and (e) an anti-rotation device to minimize or prevent the sealing element from curling when the filter cartridge is attached to a filter cover or filter head. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 85 / 144 8 / 15 35. Filter cartridge, according to claim 34, CHARACTERIZED in that the anti-rotation arrangement is fixed to or integral with the end arrangement.

36. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 34 and 35, CHARACTERIZED in that the anti-rotation arrangement is located in the axial portion of the end arrangement adjacent to the sealing element.

37. Filter cartridge, according to claim 36, CHARACTERIZED in that the anti-rotation arrangement includes a plurality of protrusions located between the sealing element and an outer periphery of the end arrangement.

38. Filter cartridge, according to claim 37, CHARACTERIZED in that the plurality of protrusions is separated by receivers arranged in an outer ring surrounding the sealing element.

39. Filter cartridge, according to claim 38, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) each of the protrusions in the outer ring of protrusions defines a closed area; (b) each of the receptors in the outer ring of receptors defines an open area; and (c) the ratio of open area to closed area is 0.2-1.

0.

40. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 38 and 39, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the end arrangement further includes an internal series of circumferentially spaced protrusions, separated by receivers arranged in an inner ring, the inner ring lying radially inside and spaced from the outer ring; and (b) the sealing element lies between the outer ring and the inner ring. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 86 / 144 9 / 15 41. Filter cartridge, according to claim 40, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) each of the protrusions in the inner ring of protrusions defines a closed area; (b) each of the receptors in the inner ring of receptors defines an open area; and (c) the ratio of the open area of ​​the inner ring to the closed area of ​​the inner ring is 0.2-1.

0.

42. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 40 and 41, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the end arrangement comprises a first end cap fixed to the first end of the medium pack; (b) the first end cap has a first axial surface oriented outward from the medium pack and a second axial surface oriented toward the medium pack; and (c) the outer ring, the inner ring, and the sealing element are located on the first axial surface.

43. Filter cartridge, according to claim 42, CHARACTERIZED in that the first end cap has an open opening in communication with the internal open medium.

44. Filter cartridge, according to claim 43, CHARACTERIZED in that the inner ring is radially spaced from and circumscribes the open aperture.

45. Filter cartridge, according to either of claims 42 and 43, CHARACTERIZED in that the outer ring lies along an outer edge of the first end cap. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 87 / 144 10 / 15 46. ​​Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 45, CHARACTERIZED in that the number of protrusions on the outer ring of spaced protrusions is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner ring.

47. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 45, CHARACTERIZED in that a number of protrusions on the outer ring of spaced protrusions is different from a number of protrusions on the inner ring.

48. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 47, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions of the outer ring has the same geometry as each of the protrusions of the inner ring.

49. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 48, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions of the outer ring has a geometry different from the geometry of each of the protrusions of the inner ring.

50. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 48, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions on the outer ring has a triangular shape.

51. Filter cartridge, according to any one of claims 42 to 48, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions of the inner ring has a triangular shape.

52. Method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end arrangement, the filter end arrangement being one of a filter head or filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge mounted removablely in a housing; the filter cartridge having a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit the filter end arrangement; the filter end arrangement having a plurality of end arrangement protrusions and receivers positioned so as to fit Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page.88 / 144 11 / 15 the filter cartridge; the method being CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the steps of: (a) positioning the cartridge protrusions to be at least partially received within the end arrangement receivers, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially towards the end arrangement; (b) after the filter cartridge has moved axially towards the end arrangement, fitting a thread of the housing into a thread of the end arrangement; and (c) rotating the housing relative to the end arrangement to thread-connect the filter assembly to the filter end arrangement.

53. Method according to claim 52, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the filter cartridge includes an axially mounted sealing element adjacent to the cartridge protrusions and receivers; and (b) the step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end arrangement includes radial support of the sealing element between the cartridge protrusions and the end arrangement protrusions.

54. Filter cartridge, CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises: (a) a tubular medium package defining an internal open medium, the tubular medium package having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) a central longitudinal axis centered in the tubular medium package and passing through the first end and the second end; (c) an end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular medium package; (d) a sealing element fixed to an axial portion of the end cap; and Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, page 89 / 144 12 / 15 (e) a first plurality of protrusions extending in an axial direction from the end cap, the first plurality of protrusions being provided in a circumferential arrangement and located near a radial side of the sealing element.

55. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of projections encircles the sealing element.

56. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions is circumscribed by the sealing element.

57. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions extends axially beyond the sealing element.

58. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions has a similar geometry.

59. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions includes one or more protrusions different from one or more other protrusions.

60. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions has a triangular shape, a trapezoidal shape, a rectangular shape with flat, rounded or pointed ends, and a curved shape. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 90 / 144 13 / 15 60. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions has a symmetrical shape.

61. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions has an asymmetrical shape.

62. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of protrusions is separated by a first plurality of receiver gaps.

63. Filter cartridge, according to claim 62, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the receiver slots of the first plurality of receiver slots has a similar geometry.

64. Filter cartridge, according to claim 62, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of receiver slots includes one or more receiver slots different from one or more other receiver slots.

65. Filter cartridge, according to claim 62, CHARACTERIZED in that each of the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions has a similar geometry, and in that each of the receiver slots of the first plurality of receiver slots has a similar geometry.

66. Filter cartridge, according to claim 54, CHARACTERIZED in that the circumferential arrangement includes a second plurality of circumferentially arranged protrusions.

67. Filter cartridge, according to claim 66, CHARACTERIZED in that the first plurality of projections encircles the sealing element, and the sealing element encircles the second plurality of projections. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, p. 91 / 144 14 / 15 68. Filter cartridge, according to claim 66 or claim 67, CHARACTERIZED in that the peaks of the first plurality of protrusions are radially aligned with the peaks of the second plurality of protrusions.

69. Filter cartridge, according to claim 66 or claim 67, CHARACTERIZED in that the peaks of the first plurality of protrusions are radially misaligned with the peaks of the second plurality of protrusions.

70. Filter cartridge, according to claim 66, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have a geometry similar to the geometry of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

71. Filter cartridge, according to claim 66, or any other preceding claim, CHARACTERIZED in that the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have a geometry different from the geometry of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

72. Method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end arrangement, the filter end arrangement being one of a filter head or filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge mounted in a removable manner in a housing; the filter cartridge having an axially mounted sealing element; the filter end arrangement having a plurality of end arrangement protrusions positioned so as to accommodate the filter cartridge; - the method being CHARACTERIZED in that it comprises the steps of: (a) positioning the filter cartridge such that the sealing element is at least partially received within the end arrangement protrusions, allowing the filter cartridge to move axially towards the end arrangement; Petition 870250091164, 06 / 10 / 2025, p.92 / 144 15 / 15 (b) after the filter cartridge moves axially towards the end arrangement, engage a thread of the housing into a thread of the end arrangement; and (c) rotate the housing relative to the end arrangement to thread-connect the filter assembly to the filter end arrangement such that the end arrangement protrusions radially support one side of the filter cartridge sealing element.

73. Method according to claim 72, CHARACTERIZED in that: (a) the end arrangement includes a plurality of end arrangement receivers, and the filter cartridge includes a plurality of filter cartridge protrusions, wherein the step of positioning the filter cartridge includes positioning the filter cartridge such that the plurality of filter cartridge protrusions are received by the end arrangement receivers. Petition 870250091164, dated 06 / 10 / 2025, pp. 93 / 144

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