System including a connector for coupling to a fluid filter element, a fluid filter element, and a method for producing the fluid filter element

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a new quick-connect bayonet-type coupling arrangement for use with connecting a filter cartridge or filter element to a fluid consuming machine. Advantageously, by modifying the threads on the end cap to include properly arranged non-interfering segments, the features of the coupling arrangement can be provided while maintaining backward compatibility with screw thread-based systems. Thus, the disclosed fluid filter element can be installed not only on systems according to the present disclosure, but also on prior art systems having thread-based connectors.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 473,806, filed on March 20, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a system including a connector for connecting to a fluid filter element, a fluid filter element and a method for producing the fluid filter element. The system may be an air filter subsystem having a connector for receiving a replaceable air filter element. Background Art

[0004] Systems that require a supply of filtered air for their operation, such as internal combustion engines, and systems that are susceptible to having the air loaded with particulate matter during their operation, such as drilling rigs and earth-moving mobile equipment, often have connectors for receiving replaceable air filter cartridges. Known connectors are of the male screw thread type, requiring filter cartridges with female screw threads, and vice versa, the filter cartridges must be screwed on by multiple complete rotations of the filter cartridge. These systems can be of top loading or bottom loading type.

[0005] What is needed is a connection system that allows for a less cumbersome installation process while maintaining backward compatibility with existing equipment. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a system is provided, the system comprising a connector for coupling to a fluid filter element, the fluid filter element comprising an end cap provided with a first coupling device, the connector comprising a second coupling device; wherein the first coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical orifice having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments, and the second coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, and vice versa; wherein the non-threaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the substantially cylindrical protrusion , so that when the substantially cylindrical orifice and the substantially cylindrical protrusion are in one range among a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges, the substantially cylindrical orifice is only allowed to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion without interference between the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice; and wherein the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice when the substantially cylindrical orifice has slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

[0007] The present invention is based, inter alia, on the recognition of the inventors that the advantages of a bayonet connector (in particular, faster attachment / detachment compared to a screw-on connector) can be achieved by modifying the threads on the end cap so as to include reasonably arranged non-interfering segments, while maintaining backward compatibility with screw thread-based systems. Thus, a fluid filter element according to the present invention can be installed on a system according to the present invention, but can also be installed on prior art systems having thread-based connectors. The term "fluid filter" as used herein includes gas (including air) filters and liquid filters.

[0008] The non-interfering segment may for example be a segment without threads (ie there is a break in the thread pattern) or a segment which is radially displaced relative to the remainder of the end cap so as to be physically unable to engage with threads on an associated threaded segment of a connector according to the invention.

[0009] The "predetermined relative angular position range" may consist of one or more specific angular positions (and specific ranges around such positions or positions) where the non-interfering segment is in such a positional relationship with the threaded segment of the protrusion that the end cap can slide over the protrusion. Depending on the degree of symmetry of the end cap and the connector, there may be one or more angular positions that satisfy this condition.

[0010] Preferably, engagement is obtained by a rotation of no more than 180°.

[0011] Therefore, in a first variant of the system according to the invention, the first coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, and the second coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical aperture having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interference segments; wherein the non-threaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion so as to allow only the substantially cylindrical aperture of the coupling to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion when the substantially cylindrical aperture and the substantially cylindrical protrusion are in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges without interference between the thread segments of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the thread segments of the substantially cylindrical aperture; and wherein the thread segments of the substantially cylindrical protrusion are arranged to allow engagement with the thread segments of the substantially cylindrical aperture when the substantially cylindrical aperture has slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

[0012] Where reference is made to the substantially cylindrical aperture of the connector "sliding through" the substantially cylindrical protrusion of the fluid cartridge, this must be understood to cover the relative movement between the connector and the fluid cartridge so as to bring the two parts closer together and into engagement with each other. This relative movement can likewise be expressed as the substantially cylindrical protrusion of the fluid cartridge "sliding into" the substantially cylindrical aperture of the connector.

[0013] Alternatively, in a second variant of the system according to the invention, the first coupling means comprises a substantially cylindrical aperture having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments, and the second coupling means comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments; wherein the non-threaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion so that when the substantially cylindrical aperture and the substantially cylindrical protrusion are in a set of predetermined relative positions, In one range of the angular position range, only the substantially cylindrical orifice of the fluid filter element is allowed to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion without interference between the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice; and wherein the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice when the substantially cylindrical orifice has slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

[0014] In an embodiment of the system according to the invention, the substantially cylindrical projection is provided with a plurality of circumferential protrusions.

[0015] In a particular embodiment, the circumferential protrusions are arranged so as to have no rotational symmetry.

[0016] In another particular embodiment, the circumferential protrusions are arranged so as to have a substantial diametric symmetry.

[0017] The term "substantially diametrically symmetrical" refers to true symmetry in a geometric sense, or an arrangement where the deviation from true symmetry is small enough that the human eye appears symmetrical. This arrangement has the advantage of allowing a human user of the system to visually determine the correct orientation of the parts during assembly of the system (i.e., when the connectors are attached to the system, whereby in a multiple filter system, it is preferred to install all connectors in substantially the same orientation) and, in use, the correct relative orientation of the parts to initiate engagement between the protrusions and the apertures.

[0018] In an embodiment of the system according to the invention, a substantially cylindrical protruding threaded segment is provided at its protruding end with a threadless sleeve of a certain length, the threadless sleeve having a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the threaded segment and a length exceeding the pitch of the threaded segment, so as to inhibit screwing on a threaded element within an axial range defined by the length of the threadless sleeve.

[0019] The diameter of the unthreaded sleeve of this length preferably has a diameter which is not lower or even higher than the outer diameter of the threaded segment.

[0020] This embodiment has the advantage that it prevents accidental screwing of older screw thread based filter cartridges onto the connector of the system according to the invention, which could lead to system failure.

[0021] The unthreaded sleeve of this length can be flush with the outer thread circumference of the threaded section. It can especially prevent the orifice of the continuous thread from being screwed on.

[0022] In an embodiment, the system of the present invention further comprises a fluid filter cartridge comprising an end cap provided with a first coupling device, wherein the first coupling device is detachably engaged with the second coupling device.

[0023] Thus, the present patent application also covers a system having one or more connectors for receiving a fluid cartridge, the one or more connectors having a corresponding fluid cartridge coupled thereto.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for use in a system as described above, the connector comprising a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, the connector being arranged to cooperate with an end cap of a fluid filter element, the end cap comprising a substantially cylindrical orifice having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments; wherein the non-threaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion so that when the substantially cylindrical orifice and the substantially cylindrical orifice are When the cylindrical protrusion is in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges, the substantially cylindrical orifice of the fluid filter element is only allowed to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion without interference between the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice; and wherein the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice when the substantially cylindrical orifice has slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

[0025] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector for use in a system as described above, the connector having a substantially cylindrical orifice having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments; the connector is arranged to cooperate with an end cap of a fluid filter element, the end cap comprising a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, wherein the non-threaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion so that when the substantially cylindrical orifice and the substantially cylindrical protrusion are When the cylindrical protrusion is in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges, the substantially cylindrical orifice of the fluid filter element is only allowed to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion without interference between the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice; and wherein the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical orifice when the substantially cylindrical orifice has slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

[0026] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fluid filter element for use in a fluid filter system as described above, the fluid filter element comprising an end cap adapted to be connected to a connector mounted on a machine so as to allow fluid exchange between the filter element and the machine, wherein the end cap is provided with a substantially cylindrical orifice having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interference segments, which are retained outside a space defined by an outer diameter of the thread segments; wherein the non-interference segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical orifice so as not to provide rotational symmetry.

[0027] As described above, the non-interfering segment can, for example, be a segment without threads (i.e., there is a break in the thread pattern), or a segment that is radially displaced relative to the remainder of the end cap so as to be physically unable to engage with threads on an associated threaded segment of a connector according to the present invention.

[0028] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a fluid filter element for use in a system as described above, the fluid filter element comprising an end cap adapted to be connected to the connector mounted on the machine so as to allow fluid exchange between the filter element and the machine, wherein the end cap is provided with the substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments.

[0029] This aspect of the disclosure represents a reversal of the roles of the first coupling device and the second coupling device, with the same technical advantages.

[0030] In an embodiment, a fluid filter element according to the present invention includes a filter media arranged around an axial bushing, and an end cap is attached to or integral with the bushing.

[0031] If the bushing is a rigid axial bushing, the torque required to engage the end cap with the connector can be applied by the end user at the distal end of the bushing, which facilitates installation, especially when multiple fluid filters are to be installed close to each other.

[0032] In an embodiment, a fluid filter cartridge according to the invention comprises a snap fit element arranged to maintain engagement between said substantially cylindrical protrusion and said substantially cylindrical aperture when full rotational engagement has been achieved.

[0033] An advantage of this embodiment is that the filter element cannot easily become detached due to vibrations of the machine in which it is installed.

[0034] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for producing a fluid filter element as described above is provided, the method comprising: stamping a metal disc using a mandrel in one or more steps to obtain a first end cap having an orifice; pressing the first end cap using a threaded mandrel or laterally stamping the first end cap using a threaded die to provide the first end cap with a continuous or segmented internal thread; and assembling the first end cap with a sleeve, a filter medium and a second end cap to obtain a fluid filter element; wherein the stamped metal disc produces a substantially cylindrical shape having a plurality of protrusions, which form non-interference segments after the pressing or side stamping steps, and the remaining portion of the shape forms a threaded segment.

[0035] The inventors have found that this is a particularly advantageous way for producing a fluid filter element according to the invention, which requires minimal adaptation of standard metalworking techniques.

[0036] The present invention also relates to a metal end cap obtained by the above process.

[0037] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an end cap assembly for a fluid filter element, the end cap assembly comprising an end cap and an internal part connected thereto; wherein the end cap is provided with a substantially cylindrical orifice having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interference segments, the non-interference segments being retained outside a space defined by an outer diameter of the thread segments and being distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical orifice so as not to provide rotational symmetry; wherein the internal part has a top surface, which acts as a gasket that engages with a corresponding surface on a system inlet of the system when the fluid filter element is connected to the system; and wherein a lower portion of the internal part forms an outlet passage of a tubular shape.

[0038] In an embodiment of the end cap assembly according to the invention, at least one of the end cap and the inner part is made of plastic.

[0039] In an embodiment of the end cap assembly according to the present invention, the top surface is provided with a projection or a clip.

[0040] In an embodiment of the end cap assembly according to the invention, the thread groove has been skipped to form a ridge which is arranged to avoid rotating the end cap in the wrong direction.

[0041] In an embodiment of the end cap assembly according to the invention, the flexible fingers are arranged to engage in a snap-fit ​​manner with corresponding ridges on a protrusion on a connector of the system.

[0042] In an embodiment of the end cap assembly according to the invention, the lower portion of the end cap has a circumferential groove to accommodate a sealing means for sealingly engaging with a housing of a fluid filter cartridge to which the end cap is mounted.

[0043] According to one aspect of the present invention, an air filter cartridge for connection with a fluid consuming machine is provided, wherein the air filter cartridge includes an extension of a filter medium, an axial sleeve supporting the medium, an end cap operably connected to the axial sleeve, wherein the end cap (200) includes a side wall defining a central opening, a seal supported by the end cap, and a connection arrangement configured for connection with a mating connector of the fluid consuming machine. The connection arrangement may include a plurality of threaded segments interrupted by non-interfering segments, wherein the non-interfering segments are radially oriented beyond a circumference defined by an outer diameter of the threaded segments and are distributed along the end cap side wall.

[0044] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the end cap further comprises a flange extending radially from the circumferential side wall, wherein the seal is supported by the flange.

[0045] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the seal comprises axially facing sealing surfaces.

[0046] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, a plurality of thread segments are present on the radially inward side of the end cap sidewall.

[0047] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the end cap is formed from a polymeric material.

[0048] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the seal is formed from a rubber or polyurethane material.

[0049] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the plurality of thread segments are arranged so as to have rotational asymmetry.

[0050] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the plurality of thread segments are arranged so as to exhibit diametric symmetry.

[0051] In an embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the invention, the thread segments each include a plurality of axially spaced apart thread portions.

[0052] An advantage of an embodiment of an end cap assembly according to the present invention is that it provides a convenient way of producing a fluid filter element having the advantages of the system described above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] These and other features and advantages of embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] - Fig. 1A is a photograph of a known air filter element;

[0055] - Figure 1B is a schematic representation of an air cleaning system utilizing a connection system that may be present in an embodiment of a system according to the invention;

[0056] - Figure 2 shows a connector that may be present in an embodiment of a system according to the invention;

[0057] - Figure 3 An end cap for a corresponding fluid filter element is shown;

[0058] - Figure 4 An embodiment of the system according to the invention is schematically illustrated in cross section, wherein a substantially cylindrical protrusion is provided with a plurality of circumferential projections;

[0059] - Figure 5 An end cap for a corresponding fluid filter element is schematically shown in cross section;

[0060] - FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D The mechanical joining process in an embodiment of the system according to the invention is schematically illustrated;

[0061] - Figure 7 Further features of embodiments of the system according to the invention are presented;

[0062] - Figure 8 Further features of embodiments of the system according to the invention are presented;

[0063] - Fig. 9 Further features of embodiments of the system according to the invention are presented; and

[0064] - Figures 10 to 15 illustrate another embodiment of the system according to the invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] Throughout the description, various aspects of a fluid filter element according to the present invention may be described with reference to an air filter element in a bottom loading system, wherein the filter element has a substantially cylindrical orifice in its end cap and the connector has a substantially cylindrical protrusion. This is done without loss of generality, as the technical effects and advantages of the features of the present invention apply in the same manner to other types of fluid filter elements, including fluid filter elements in which the positions of the orifice and protrusion are switched, unless otherwise stated.

[0066] FIG. 1A is a photograph of a known air filter element. It includes a pleated filter medium arranged around an axial sleeve (not shown) having an open end cap at the top end thereof having a cylindrical orifice with a female thread. An axial seal is disposed on the end cap. The end cap may be coupled to a system having a cylindrical protrusion having a corresponding male thread. Full engagement of the axial seal against the flange of the connector may require a large number (e.g., 6) of complete rotations of the air filter element, which makes replacement of the air filter element a rather cumbersome operation.

[0067] Embodiments of the present invention overcome this disadvantage by providing a bayonet-type engagement between the connector on the system and the fluid filter cartridge, while maintaining compatibility between the fluid filter cartridge of the present invention and conventional systems (one-way backward compatibility).

[0068] Figure 1B An air cleaning system 10 is shown that includes a connection arrangement for connecting a filter cartridge to a fluid consuming device (such as an air intake of an internal combustion engine). As explained in further detail below, the connection arrangement can include an end cap 200 disposed on the filter cartridge that interacts with a correspondingly shaped connector 100 disposed on the fluid consuming device or on a housing (not shown) in which the filter cartridge is disposed. In some examples, the filter cartridge can also be provided with an end cap 300 opposite the end cap 200. In Figure 1B In the example shown, the end cap 300 is a closed end cap.

[0069] Figure 2 A connector 100 that may be present in an embodiment of a system according to the present invention is shown, which is used to be connected to a fluid filter element. Without loss of generality, the connector 100 is shown in an orientation in which a flange that is part of the system or attached to the system (e.g., by spot welding) is shown as the top, and a protrusion 100 that receives the fluid filter element is shown as the bottom. This orientation is selected for illustrative purposes only. The system may also function in other orientations without departing from the concepts presented herein.

[0070] The connector 100 includes a substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of threaded segments 120 interrupted by unthreaded segments 130 .

[0071] The non-threaded segments 130 are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion 110 so as to allow the substantially cylindrical aperture of a fluid filter element (described below) to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 without interference between the threaded segments 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 and the threaded segments of the substantially cylindrical aperture only when the substantially cylindrical aperture and the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 are in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges (note again here that the set may consist of only a single suitable relative angular position range). These ranges may span angles of up to 22.5° on each side of the center position, preferably up to 10° on each side of the center position, more preferably up to 5° on each side of the center position, and most preferably up to 2.5° on each side of the center position.

[0072] The threaded segments 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 are arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segments of the substantially cylindrical orifice when the substantially cylindrical orifice has been slid through the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 by rotation. The degree of rotation required to obtain engagement depends on the angular range of the threaded portion. The angular range is preferably 180° or less (e.g., if a single threaded segment 120 extends over approximately one-half of the circumference of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110), more preferably 90° or less (e.g., if a pair of threaded segments 120 each extend over approximately one-quarter of the circumference of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110), and may even be 60°, 45°, 30° or less.

[0073] Figure 3 An end cap 200 is shown for use with a corresponding fluid filter cartridge. The end cap 200 has a substantially cylindrical aperture 210 having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments 220 interrupted by non-interfering segments 230. In one aspect, the aperture 210 (which has a tubular shape that may or may not be cylindrical) features a sidewall 210 defining a central opening.

[0074] Since the thread pattern is intended to engage with the threads of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 described above, and since such a connection must be able to support the weight of the fluid filter element (in a "hanging" arrangement), the number of threads and their depth are selected according to the size of the fluid filter element and the corresponding weight to be supported. In an industrial environment, the fluid filter element may have an exemplary diameter ranging from 120 mm to 324 mm and an exemplary length ranging from 600 mm to 2000 mm or more.

[0075] The top flange of the end cap 200 can be provided with a seal or gasket 202 to provide an axial seal between the (clean) interior of the fluid filter element and the system on the one hand and the (dirty) exterior of the fluid filter element on the other hand. The characteristics of this seal or gasket 202 can be selected according to the requirements of the application and the type of fluid to be filtered. Thus, in embodiments for use in an industrial air filtration environment, a simple ring of low friction foam material may be sufficient, while other applications may require a compressed or deflected elastomeric gasket (e.g., made of rubber or polyurethane). In one aspect, the seal or gasket 202 can have an axially facing seal surface 202a so that an axial seal (i.e., a seal in a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X of the filter cartridge) is formed between the seal or gasket 202 and the connector 100.

[0076] It is clear that in Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the case shown in FIG. 1 , as long as the non-interfering segment 230 of the end cap 200 is angularly aligned with the threaded segment 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110, the orifice 210 of the end cap 200 can be slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 (in the case of FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 3 10. In the embodiment of the present invention, the end cap 200 is slidably mounted on the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 and the threaded segment 220 of the end cap 200 is engaged with the threaded segment 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 by rotating the end cap 200 approximately 60° in the direction indicated by the arrow.

[0077] Advantageously, the presence of the non-interfering segment 230 on the substantially cylindrical orifice 210 does not exclude the latter from being screwed onto a prior art protrusion with a continuous thread, thus achieving one-way backward compatibility.

[0078] Although already Figure 2 and Figure 3 The concept of the invention is presented in with reference to a design in which the non-interfering section 230 of the substantially cylindrical bore 210 is obtained by interrupting the thread, but the invention is not limited thereto.

[0079] In the present invention, Figure 4 In the embodiment of the system schematically shown in cross section in FIG. 1 , the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 is provided with a plurality of circumferential protrusions.

[0080] The radially outwardly protruding projections of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 are the portion of the sleeve that follows the original cylindrical profile (shown in dashed lines), and these projections form the threaded section 120 of the connector 100. In contrast, the portion between the projections (the depressions or inwardly extending recesses in the cylinder) has no threads (or at most very shallow non-functional threads) and forms the non-threaded section 130 of the connector.

[0081] exist Figure 5 The corresponding substantially cylindrical opening 210 , which is schematically shown in cross section in FIG. 2 , is likewise provided with a circumferential projection having a complementary function.

[0082] The radially outwardly protruding protrusions of the substantially cylindrical aperture 210 are the portion where the sleeve moves away from the original cylindrical profile (shown in dashed lines), and these protrusions form a non-interfering segment 230 of the substantially cylindrical aperture 210. In contrast, the portion between the protrusions (the depressions or inwardly extending recesses in the cylinder) has a functional thread and forms a threaded segment 220 of the substantially cylindrical aperture 210.

[0083] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6D The joining process between the end cap 200 and the connector 100 is schematically shown. Fig. 6A In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the substantially cylindrical aperture 210 is slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 by selecting a relative angular orientation in which the non-interfering segment 230 of the aperture 210 is aligned with the threaded segment 120 of the connector 100 .

[0084] During the sliding movement, the aperture 210 and the protrusion 110 do not need to be completely coaxial, in fact, some degree or small eccentricity of the aperture 210 can facilitate sliding between the parts. The start of the rotational movement will tend to return the aperture 210 to the center position relative to the protrusion 110 so as to achieve Figure 6B The situation shown.

[0085] exist Figure 6C In the situation shown at , the aperture 210 has been rotated about 20° in the direction of engagement. The threaded segment 220 of the aperture 210 has begun to engage with the threaded segment 120 of the protrusion 110 .

[0086] exist Fig.6D In the situation shown at , the aperture 210 has been rotated in the direction of engagement by about 60°. The threaded segment 220 of the aperture 210 has been fully engaged with the threaded segment 120 of the protrusion 110.

[0087] like Figure 46, the protrusions of the connector can be arranged without rotational symmetry, thus forcing installation of the fluid filter element to occur at a specific angular orientation. Since the protrusions are visible on the outside of the protrusion 110 and at the open end of the end cap 200, it is easy for the end user to see how the fluid filter element must be held in order to be assembled to the connector 100.

[0088] It should be noted that the circumferential protrusions may be arranged so as to have diametric symmetry.

[0089] like Figure 7 As shown, the threaded segment 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 is preferably provided at its protruding end with a certain length of a non-threaded sleeve 150, which has a diameter corresponding to (preferably not lower than, or higher than) the outer diameter of the threaded segment 120 and has a length exceeding the pitch of the threaded segment 120, so as to inhibit the screwing of a threaded element within the axial range defined by the length of the non-threaded sleeve.

[0090] The purpose of this length of unthreaded sleeve 150 is twofold. On the one hand, it prevents inadvertently screwing an old fluid filter cartridge (with continuous threads) onto the connector of the system according to the invention. On the other hand, it forces the substantially threaded orifice 210 to slide sufficiently far up along the protrusion 110 before the bayonet-type engagement begins. In this way, it is ensured that the top of the end cap 200 ends up effectively against the flange of the connector 100 at the end of the engagement rotation, thereby compressing any seal that may be provided there.

[0091] It should be noted that in embodiments where the connector 100 is provided with a substantially cylindrical aperture and the end cap 200 of the filter cartridge includes a substantially cylindrical protrusion having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, the length of the non-threaded sleeve 150 should still be provided on the connector 100. In this case, after the substantially cylindrical protrusion of the end cap 200 has been slid far enough into the substantially cylindrical aperture of the connector 100, the non-threaded sleeve 150 can be removed by rotating the end cap 200 to a desired angle (e.g., for the opposite embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 3 60° in the direction indicated by the arrow), the threaded segment in the substantially cylindrical aperture of the connector 100 may be engaged with the threaded segment 120 of the substantially cylindrical protrusion of the end cap 200 .

[0092] Additional protection against reverse rotation 160, 260 may be provided to prevent the end cap from rotating in the wrong direction. Figure 7 A narrow thread segment is shown in which a single thread groove is skipped so that a ridge 160 is left. Figure 8In FIG. 2 , a ridge or wedge 260 can be seen at a corresponding position of the end cap 200. The two elements 160, 260 are positioned so as to ensure that rotation is allowed in only one direction.

[0093] like Fig. 9 As shown, the ridge or wedge 260 may be provided with a flexible finger 265 which forms a snap-fit ​​lock in conjunction with the raised ridge 160. An additional advantage of this arrangement is that the user hears and / or feels a "click" when the snap-fit ​​lock 160, 260 engages, thus signaling the fact that a sufficiently tight engagement has been achieved whereby the seal is compressed. The snap-fit ​​lock 160, 260 is preferably designed in such a way that it can be disengaged by a manual rotational force.

[0094] Reference again Figure 3 The present invention also relates to a fluid filter element for use in a fluid filter system as described above, the fluid filter element comprising an end cap 200 adapted to be connected to a connector 100 mounted on a machine so as to allow fluid exchange between the filter element and the machine, wherein the end cap 200 is provided with a cylindrical orifice 210 having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments 220 interrupted by non-interference segments 230, the non-interference segments 230 being retained outside a space defined by an outer diameter of the thread segments 220; wherein the non-interference segments 230 are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical orifice 210 so as not to provide rotational symmetry.

[0095] The fluid filter element may further include a filter media disposed around and / or within the axial bushing, wherein the end cap 200 is attached to or integral with the bushing.

[0096] The presence of the rigid bushing allows the end user to apply the necessary torque to the far end of the bushing.For this purpose, the far end of the bushing (or the second end cap arranged there) can be provided with an element that can be easily grasped with a wrench, such as a hexagonal protrusion.

[0097] The present invention also relates to a method for producing a filter element as described above, the method comprising:

[0098] - punching the metal disc using a mandrel in one or more steps so as to obtain a first end cap 200 having an orifice 210;

[0099] - rolling the first end cap using a threaded mandrel or side-stamping the first end cap using a threaded die to provide the first end cap 200 with a continuous or segmented internal thread; and

[0100] - Assembling the first end cap 200 together with the bushing, the filter medium and the second end cap to obtain an air filter element;

[0101] Therein, the stamping of the metal disc produces a substantially cylindrical shape with a plurality of protrusions which, after a coining or lateral stamping step, form the non-interfering segment 230 , while the remainder of the shape forms the threaded segment 220 .

[0102] Depending on the arrangement of the threaded mandrel or threaded dies, the process described above can produce a semi-symmetrical cylindrical shape or a substantially symmetrical shape. From a manufacturing point of view, a substantially symmetrical shape may be preferred because it can be obtained using a set of partial dies (e.g., 4 dies) that are subjected to substantially equal loads during the rolling step. When a semi-cylindrical shape is used, the operator can identify the correct direction for insertion and locking of the fluid filter element from the shape itself (e.g., by identifying a specific axis in the semi-symmetrical arrangement). When a substantially symmetrical cylindrical shape is used, graphic indicators (such as arrows and locking symbols) can be provided to help the user correctly align the fluid filter element before insertion and correctly rotate it to achieve proper locking.

[0103] Figures 10 to 15 show another embodiment of the system and its parts according to the present invention. This embodiment can be used, for example, in the context of oil filtration.

[0104] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10F There are presented top, front, cross-sectional and perspective views of an end cap 200, for example made of plastic, provided with a substantially cylindrical aperture 210 having an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments 220 interrupted by non-interfering segments 230. The non-interfering segments 230 remain outside the space defined by the outer diameter of the thread segments 220. The non-interfering segments 230 are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical aperture 210 so as not to provide rotational symmetry.

[0105] A single thread groove has been skipped to form ridge 260 to prevent the end cap from rotating in the wrong direction. Flexible fingers 265 are arranged to engage corresponding ridges on protrusions on the connector. Fig. 9 In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 2 , the flexible fingers 265 of this embodiment are provided separately from the spine 260. In the illustrated embodiment, the snap fit is provided in a longitudinal region without threads to aid in manufacturing; in other embodiments, this feature may be provided in a longitudinal region with threads.

[0106] The end cap 200 is connected to an inner part, preferably made of plastic, the top surface of which acts as a gasket 270 that engages with a corresponding surface on the system inlet when the fluid filter element is coupled to the system. Preferably, the gasket is provided with some bumps, protrusions or clips that ensure that the gasket resists rotation under the influence of vibrations that may be expected in the engine environment. The lower part of the inner part forms an outlet channel 280 of tubular shape.

[0107] The lower portion of the end cap 200 has a circumferential groove to accommodate an O-ring 285 to sealingly engage the housing (can) of the fluid filter element to which the end cap 200 is mounted (see FIG. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D and FIG. 14A to FIG. 14C ).

[0108] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11D A top view, a front view, a cross-section and a perspective view of a corresponding embodiment of a connector 100 according to the present invention are presented. The connector 100 comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion 110 having an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of threaded segments 120 interrupted by unthreaded segments 130. An unthreaded sleeve 150 having a diameter corresponding to (preferably not less than, or greater than) the outer diameter of the threaded segments 120 and a length exceeding the length of the pitch of the threaded segments 120 is provided to inhibit the screwing of a threaded element within the axial range defined by the unthreaded sleeve of this length. An inlet pipe 180 is provided, which is received in a tubular-shaped outlet passage 280 during installation of the fluid filter element. After the coupling process is completed, the gasket 270 of the fluid filter element engages with the surface 170.

[0109] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D shows that during insertion ( FIG. 12A to FIG. 12B ) and after full rotational engagement ( FIG. 12C to FIG. 12D ), the relative positions of the fluid cartridge with the end cap 200 and the system with the connector 100. Graphic indicators (such as arrows and locking symbols) help the user to correctly align the fluid cartridge before insertion and to correctly rotate it to achieve proper locking. Since these symbols clearly identify the correct orientation for insertion and locking, the threaded parts no longer need to be shaped in such a way that the operator can recognize the correct orientation from the shape itself (e.g., by identifying a specific axis in a semi-symmetrical arrangement).

[0110] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D and 14A to Fig. 14C An embodiment of a fluid filter element for use in the system of the present invention is shown. A filter media 290, such as a pleated media, is arranged around an axial bushing 295, having an end cap 200 attached thereto as described above.

[0111] The end cap 200 of the filter element can be made substantially of plastic. The fluid filter element can be assembled by sliding a portion of a metal can containing the filter media 290 over the end cap and folding the end cap inward. At this point, the O-ring 285 of the end cap 200 sealingly engages the can. The assembly can be secured to prevent relative rotation of the parts, such as by forming a depression in the metal sheet of the can that snaps into the plastic of the end cap 200.

[0112] The end cap 200 is adapted to be coupled to a connector 100 mounted on a machine so as to allow fluid to be exchanged between the filter element and the machine. The end cap 200 is provided with a cylindrical aperture 210 having an internal thread pattern as described above in connection with FIG. 10 .

[0113] The end cap 200 can be combined with an inner part 275 to form an end cap assembly. The inner part 275 of the end cap assembly (preferably made of plastic) has a preferably toothed top surface 270 that acts as a gasket that engages with a corresponding surface 170 on the system inlet when the fluid filter element is coupled to the system. The lower portion 280 of the inner part 275 forms an outlet passage of tubular shape to communicate with the inner cavity of the axial bushing 295, which defines the clean side of the filter media 290.

[0114] FIG. 15 illustrates an embodiment of a system having a fluid filter cartridge with an end cap 200 and a connector 100 after full rotational engagement (see FIG. FIG. 12C to FIG. 12D , right figure). A filter medium 290 (such as a pleated medium) is arranged around an axial bushing 295, having an end cap 200 attached thereto as described above. The end cap 200 is coupled to a connector 100 mounted on a machine to allow fluid to be exchanged between the filter element and the machine. The end cap 200 is provided with a cylindrical orifice 210 having an internal thread pattern as described above in conjunction with FIG. 10.

[0115] The end cap 200 is combined with an internal part 275, which may be, for example, overmolded or mechanically fastened, as described above in connection with FIGS. 13 and 14. The top surface 270 acts as a gasket that axially engages with a corresponding surface 170 on the system inlet. The bumps or teeth on the top of the gasket 270 prevent the gasket from loosening under the influence of vibrations that occur in a typical machine environment. The gasket has two sealing areas that serve to separate the "clean" fluid side from the "dirty" fluid side.

[0116] The thick arrows schematically illustrate the flow of a "dirty" fluid (arrow A) and a "clean" fluid (arrow B). The "dirty" fluid (arrow A) passes through a special horizontal flow channel below the sealing area, while the tank directs the central inflow fluid to the outside of the media.

[0117] As can be seen, the lower portion 280 of the inner part 275 forms a tubular shaped outlet passage that communicates with the inner cavity of the axial bushing 295 that defines the clean side of the filter media 290 and sealingly receives the central inlet tube 180 of the connector 100 .

[0118] The configuration of the seal described above has the advantage that when the filter element is removed for servicing, any liquid present in the canister prior to servicing will remain in the canister.

[0119] In variations of the illustrated embodiment, the features of the end cap 200 above the O-ring 285 may be shortened by reducing the number of thread cycles and / or including a snap-fit ​​system in the threaded area.

[0120] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, this is done to illustrate rather than to limit the present invention, the scope of which is to be determined with reference to the appended claims. Specifically, if the connector is provided with an orifice and the fluid filter element is provided with a protrusion, the features that have been described as being associated with the fluid filter element, especially the features associated with the substantially cylindrical orifice, can be applied to the connector with the same technical effects and advantages. Conversely, if the fluid filter element is provided with a protrusion and the connector is provided with an orifice, the features that have been described as being associated with the connector, especially the features associated with the substantially cylindrical protrusion, can be applied to the fluid filter element with the same technical effects and advantages.

Claims

1. A system comprising a connector for coupling to a fluid filter element, comprising: fluid A filter element, the fluid filter element comprising an end cap (200) provided with a first coupling device, and the connector (100) comprising a second coupling device; wherein the first coupling means comprises a substantially cylindrical aperture (210) presenting an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments (220) interrupted by radially outwardly protruding circumferential protrusions defining non-interference segments (230), and the second coupling means comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) presenting an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments (120) interrupted by non-thread segments (130), and vice versa; wherein the non-interference segments are distributed circumferentially along the substantially cylindrical aperture so as not to provide rotational symmetry; wherein the non-threaded segments (130) are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion (110) so as to allow only the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) without interference between the threaded segments (120) of the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) and the threaded segments (220) of the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) when the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) and the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) are in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges; wherein the threaded segment (120) of the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment (220) of the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) when the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) has been slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) by rotation; and, wherein the threaded segment (120) of the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) and the threaded segment (220) of the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) are configured to achieve full engagement for a degree of rotation of 180° or less; wherein the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) includes a narrow thread segment in which a single thread groove has been skipped so as to leave a ridge (160), and wherein the end cap (200) includes ridges or wedges (260) at corresponding locations to ensure that rotation is only permitted in one direction; A threaded segment (120) of a substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) is provided at its protruding end with a threadless sleeve (150) of a certain length, the threadless sleeve having a diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the threaded segment (120) and having a length exceeding the pitch of the threaded segment (120) so as to inhibit the screwing of a threaded element within an axial range defined by the threadless sleeve of the length.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the first connecting device includes a substantially cylindrical protrusion, which presents an external thread pattern consisting of multiple thread segments interrupted by non-threaded segments, and the second connecting device includes a substantially cylindrical orifice, which presents an internal thread pattern consisting of multiple thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the first coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical aperture ( 210 ) presenting an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments ( 220 ) interrupted by non-interfering segments ( 230 ), and the second coupling device comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion ( 110 ) presenting an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments ( 120 ) interrupted by non-threaded segments ( 130 ).

4. The system of claim 1 wherein the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) comprises a narrow thread segment in which a single thread groove has been skipped so as to leave a ridge (160), and wherein the end cap (200) comprises a flexible finger (265) that engages the ridge (160) of the protrusion to form a snap-fit ​​lock.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a locking feature for retaining the first coupling device and the second coupling device in an engaged position.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises a fluid filter cartridge comprising an end cap (200) provided with a first coupling device, wherein the first coupling device is detachably engageable with a second coupling device.

7. A connector (100) for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The connector (100) comprises a substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) presenting an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments (120) interrupted by non-threaded segments (130); the connector (100) is configured to mate with an end cap (200) of a fluid filter element, the end cap (200) comprising a substantially cylindrical orifice (210) presenting an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments (220) interrupted by non-interfering segments (230); wherein the non-threaded segments (130) are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion (110) so as to allow only the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) of the fluid filter element to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) without interference between the threaded segments (120) of the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) and the threaded segments (220) of the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) when the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) and the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) are in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges; and Therein, the threaded segment (120) of the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment (220) of the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) when the substantially cylindrical aperture (210) has been slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion (110) by rotation.

8. A connector for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The connector includes a substantially cylindrical orifice exhibiting an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-interfering segments; the connector is configured to mate with an end cap of a fluid filter element, the end cap including a substantially cylindrical protrusion exhibiting an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-thread segments; wherein the unthreaded segments are distributed along the circumference of the cylindrical protrusion so as to only allow the substantially cylindrical aperture of the connector to slide over the substantially cylindrical protrusion without interference between the threaded segments of the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the threaded segments of the substantially cylindrical aperture when the substantially cylindrical aperture and the substantially cylindrical protrusion are in one of a set of predetermined relative angular position ranges; and Therein, the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical protrusion is arranged to allow engagement with the threaded segment of the substantially cylindrical aperture when the substantially cylindrical aperture has been slid over the substantially cylindrical protrusion by rotation.

9. A fluid filter element for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The fluid filter cartridge includes an end cap (200) adapted to be coupled to a connector (100) mounted on a machine to allow fluid to be exchanged between the filter cartridge and the machine; wherein the end cap (200) is provided with a substantially cylindrical aperture (210) presenting an internal thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments (220) interrupted by non-interfering segments (230) which remain outside the space defined by the outer diameter of the thread segments (220); and Therein, the non-interfering segments (230) are distributed along the circumference of the substantially cylindrical opening (210) so as not to provide rotational symmetry.

10. The fluid filter cartridge of claim 9, wherein the fluid filter cartridge comprises a filter media (290) disposed about an axial bushing (295), wherein the end cap (200) is attached to one or both of the filter media and the axial bushing.

11. The fluid filter cartridge of claim 9, wherein the fluid filter cartridge includes a snap fit element configured to maintain engagement between the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the substantially cylindrical aperture when full rotational engagement is achieved.

12. The fluid filter element of claim 9, wherein the length of at least one non-interference segment is different than the length of at least one other non-interference segment.

13. A fluid filter element for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The fluid filter element includes an end cap adapted to couple to a connector mounted on a machine to allow exchange of fluid between the filter element and the machine; wherein the end cap is provided with a substantially cylindrical protrusion exhibiting an external thread pattern consisting of a plurality of thread segments interrupted by non-thread segments; Therein, the substantially cylindrical protrusion is provided with a plurality of circumferential projections, which are arranged not to exhibit rotational symmetry and which form thread segments of the substantially cylindrical protrusion.

14. The fluid filter cartridge of claim 13, wherein the fluid filter cartridge comprises a filter media (290) disposed about an axial bushing (295), wherein the end cap (200) is attached to one or both of the filter media and the axial bushing.

15. The fluid filter cartridge of claim 13, wherein the fluid filter cartridge includes a snap fit element configured to maintain engagement between the substantially cylindrical protrusion and the substantially cylindrical aperture when full rotational engagement is achieved.

16. A filter cartridge for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the filter cartridge comprising: a) an extension of the filter medium (290); b) an axial bushing (295) supporting the filter medium (290); c) an end cap (200) operably connected to the axial bushing (295), the end cap (200) comprising a side wall defining a central opening; d) a seal supported by the end cover (200); and e) a connection structure configured for connection with a matingly shaped connector (100) of a fluid consuming machine, the connection structure comprising a plurality of threaded segments (220) interrupted by non-interference segments (230), the non-interference segments (230) being radially oriented beyond a circumference defined by an outer diameter of the threaded segments (220) and distributed along a side wall; The plurality of thread segments (220) are arranged so as to exhibit rotational asymmetry.

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