Filter device for liquids and method of use

Abstract

A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: a filter cartridge having a filter media portion and a first end cap, the first end cap holding an axially disposed sealing member; an end device sized to engage against the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing member; and an anti-rotation device constructed and arranged to prevent rotation of the filter cartridge and the cover device relative to each other.

Description

[0001] Citation of relevant applications

[0002] This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on April 12, 2024, 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 entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to liquid filters and methods. Exemplary embodiments described include bowl-cartridge assemblies and in-tank filter assemblies for use in, for example, fuel systems or hydraulic systems. Background Technology

[0004] Liquid filters are used in a variety of applications, including hydraulic systems, fuel systems, and engine lubrication systems.

[0005] Generally, liquid filters that house downstream components are of concern. In particular, it is important to prevent cavitation in pumps and other equipment downstream of the liquid filter. Conditions such as cold starts, flow surges, or component blockages can damage downstream components.

[0006] Continuous improvement is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0007] On one hand, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) a filter element having a filter media portion; (b) an end device removably positioned above the filter element; (c) a first abutting member and a second abutting member, wherein the first abutting member and the second abutting member abut against each other when the assembly is in a first state, and the abutting member and the second abutting member are prevented from abutting against each other when the assembly is in a second state; and (d) a switching device capable of switching the assembly between the first state and the second state.

[0008] In an exemplary implementation:

[0009] - The first abutment member includes a radially flexible member.

[0010] - The first abutment member includes an axially rigid member.

[0011] - The conversion device is mechanically associated with the filter element.

[0012] - The first abutting member includes a helical elastic element and / or a flat elastic element and / or a clockwork-type elastic element.

[0013] - The first abutting member is a flat elastic element, which is shaped to form a partial enclosure.

[0014] - The conversion device includes a ramp on the filter element.

[0015] - The filter element has a first end and an opposite second end, with a ramp device protruding radially from the first end.

[0016] - The ramp device is configured to radially adjust the radial flexible member when it is pressed against the ramp device in the direction from the first end to the second end.

[0017] - The first case includes a radially flexible member having a first outermost dimension, and the second case includes a radially flexible member having a second outermost dimension, wherein the first outermost dimension is smaller than the second outermost dimension.

[0018] - The first case includes a radially flexible member having a first outermost dimension, and the second case includes a radially flexible member having a second outermost dimension, wherein the first outermost dimension is greater than the second outermost dimension.

[0019] - The first abutment member is connected to the end device.

[0020] - The end device is either the filter head or the cover.

[0021] - The conversion device radially adjusts the first abutting member to prevent the first abutting member from contacting the second abutting member.

[0022] - The second abutment member is part of the housing assembly, and the dimensions of this part are configured to receive the filter element.

[0023] - The housing device includes a filter device with an open interior, the open interior being constructed and arranged to receive filter elements.

[0024] - The filter device has a first end cap, which includes a second abutment member.

[0025] - The housing device includes a filter bowl-shaped member with an open interior, the open interior being constructed and arranged to receive the filter element.

[0026] - The first abutment member is connected to the end device.

[0027] In one aspect, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) an end device; (b) a first abutment member movable radially within the filter assembly; and (c) a filter cartridge comprising: (i) a tubular media package defining an open media interior having a first end and an opposite second end; (ii) a central longitudinal axis centered within the tubular media package and passing through the first and second ends; and (iii) a displacement member sized and positioned such that when the filter cartridge is connected to the end device, the displacement member engages with the first abutment member to allow radial movement of the first abutment member.

[0028] In an exemplary implementation:

[0029] - The displacement component includes a ramp device.

[0030] - The displacement member includes a movable hinge that pivots against a first abutment member.

[0031] - The ramp device includes a ramp surface that is inclined at a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0032] - The slope surface is tilted between 5 and 80 degrees.

[0033] - The slope surface is tilted between 15 and 70 degrees.

[0034] - The slope surface is tilted at an angle of approximately 20 to 30 degrees.

[0035] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap fixed to a first end of a tubular media package, and a ramp surface is part of the first end cap.

[0036] - The first end cap has an outer radial surface that defines the ramp surface.

[0037] -The ramp surface has a front free end and a rear end;

[0038] - The front free end protrudes axially away from the rest of the filter cartridge and toward the filter head; and the rear end is along the outer periphery of the first end cap.

[0039] - The end device includes a filter head and a cover device, the filter head having: (a) a wall surrounding an open interior and fluid passage; and (b) a first fastener device along the wall, the wall having opposite first and second ends, each of the first and second ends being open.

[0040] - The cover assembly is sized to be removably positioned inside the filter head, the cover assembly comprising: (i) a central housing externally connected to a fluid conduit communicating with a fluid passage in the filter head; and (ii) a second fastener assembly configured and arranged to be removably connected to a first fastener assembly; wherein, when the cover assembly is positioned above the first filter cartridge, a displacement member causes the first abutment member to move radially to allow the second fastener assembly of the cover assembly to connect to the first fastener assembly of the filter head.

[0041] - The end device includes a filter head having: (a) a wall surrounding an open interior and fluid passage; and (b) a first fastener device along the wall having opposite first and second ends, the second end being open and sized to connect with a filter bowl.

[0042] - The end device also includes a filter bowl with an open interior configured and arranged to receive a filter element, the filter bowl having a second fastening device removably connected to the first fastening device.

[0043] - The filter cartridge includes a sealing member positioned to form a seal with an end device; and a first end cap having an axially outer surface for retaining the sealing member.

[0044] - The first end cap is an open end cap.

[0045] - The filter cartridge also includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the tubular media package.

[0046] - The second end cap is a closed end cap.

[0047] - The second end cap is an open end cap.

[0048] - The tubular media package is the inner tubular media package; the filter cartridge also includes an outer tubular media package, which is radially spaced from the inner tubular media package and externally connected to the inner tubular media package.

[0049] - The inner tubular media package includes pleated media; the outer tubular media package includes pleated media.

[0050] - The outer tubular media package has a first end and an opposite second end; a first end cap is fixed to the first end of the outer tubular media package.

[0051] - The inner tubular media package has an axial length greater than that of the outer tubular media package; and the first end of the inner tubular media package is closer to the cover device than the first end of the outer tubular media package.

[0052] - The filter cartridge also includes an outer liner surrounding the outer tubular media package; the outer liner extends between a first end cap and an opposite second end cap.

[0053] - The first abutment member is fixed to the end device.

[0054] -The central sleeve in the external end device of the first abutting member.

[0055] - The first abutting member includes an axially rigid and radially flexible elastic element that moves radially in response to a force exerted on the elastic element by the displacing member.

[0056] - The first abutting member includes a flat elastic element that moves radially when it abuts against the ramp surface and does not contact the ramp surface.

[0057] - The end device includes a cover device with multiple columnar members protruding from a central housing; an elastic member is slidably mounted on the multiple columnar members.

[0058] - The end device includes a filter head having a surrounding wall having a plurality of columnar members protruding from the surrounding wall into the interior of the filter head; an elastic member is slidably mounted on the plurality of columnar members.

[0059] - The cover assembly includes: (a) a closed cover member having an outer radial surface defining a second fastener assembly; (b) a sealing ring spaced axially from the cover member, the sealing ring retaining a radially oriented sealing member positioned to form a seal with a filter head; (c) the sealing ring having a first axial surface and an opposite second axial surface, the first axial surface facing the cover member; and (d) a central housing extending from the second axial surface.

[0060] - The outer diameter of the central sleeve is 50% to 80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring.

[0061] - The sealing member of the sealing ring is oriented radially outward.

[0062] - The first fastener and the second fastener are threaded.

[0063] - The first abutting member is radially movable between the innermost position and the outermost position, the innermost position having a dimension D1 and the outermost position having a dimension D2; and the ratio of D1:D2 is between 0.74 and 0.98.

[0064] In one aspect, a filter cartridge is provided, comprising: (a) a tubular media package defining an open media interior, the tubular media package having a first end and an opposite second end; a central longitudinal axis centered within the tubular media package and passing through the first and second ends; and a displacement device fixed to the media package, the displacement device including at least one engaging protrusion having a front edge and a rear edge.

[0065] In an exemplary implementation:

[0066] - The front edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the back edge.

[0067] - The rear edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the front edge.

[0068] - The displacement device includes multiple engaging protrusions.

[0069] - The tubular media package is cylindrical.

[0070] - A straight line extending between the front and rear edges of at least one or more joint protrusions is obliquely positioned at a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0071] - The straight line extending between the front and back edges is skewed to one of the following: between 5 and 80 degrees, or between 15 and 70 degrees, or between 20 and 30 degrees.

[0072] - At least one or more engagement protrusions are straight.

[0073] - At least one or more of the joint protrusions are not straight.

[0074] - There exists only one joint protrusion that forms a radially continuous surface.

[0075] - The radially continuous surface of the joint protrusion is connected to the external medium package.

[0076] - At least one or more joint protrusions include a ramp.

[0077] - The slope is tilted at any of the following angles: between 5 degrees and 80 degrees, or between 15 degrees and 70 degrees, or between 20 degrees and 30 degrees.

[0078] - The slope is tilted at any of the following angles: between 100 and 175 degrees, between 105 and 165 degrees, or between 150 and 160 degrees.

[0079] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap fixed to a first end of a tubular media package, and at least one or more engaging protrusions are part of the first end cap.

[0080] - The first end cap has a radially outer surface that defines at least one or more engagement protrusions.

[0081] - The filter cartridge includes a sealing member positioned to form a seal with a cover assembly; the first end cap has an outer axial surface for retaining the sealing member.

[0082] - The first end cap is an open end cap.

[0083] - The filter cartridge also includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the tubular media package.

[0084] - The filter cartridge also includes an outer bushing for an external tubular media package, which extends between a first end cap and an opposite second end cap.

[0085] - The shifting device extends to a distal end having a stepped cross-sectional profile that defines at least one radially facing surface and at least one axially facing surface.

[0086] - At least one radially facing surface is an outward-facing radial surface.

[0087] - At least one radially facing surface is an inwardly facing radial surface.

[0088] - The stepped cross-sectional profile includes a single stepped section.

[0089] - The stepped cross-sectional profile includes multiple stepped sections.

[0090] - The distal end also includes an axial extension that is radially nested from the stepped cross-section profile.

[0091] On one hand, a method for servicing a filter assembly, the filter assembly including an end device and a filter cartridge; the method includes: (a) moving the end device having a first abutment member against a displacement member to move the first abutment member radially; and (b) sealingly engaging the end device with the filter cartridge.

[0092] Exemplary methods include:

[0093] -Moving the first abutting member against the displacing member includes moving the first abutting member against the ramp arrangement.

[0094] -Moving the first abutting member against the displacing member includes moving the first abutting member against the movable hinge.

[0095] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap; wherein moving the first abutting member against the displacing member includes moving the first abutting member against the displacing member, which is part of the first end cap.

[0096] - Moving the first abutment member radially includes moving the first abutment member radially outward.

[0097] - Moving the first abutment member radially includes moving the first abutment member radially inward.

[0098] - Radial movement of the first abutment member includes radial movement of an axially rigid and radially flexible elastic element.

[0099] Moving the end device includes moving the covering device that holds the first abutment member.

[0100] Moving the end device includes moving the filter head that holds the first abutment member.

[0101] In one aspect, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) a filter cartridge having a filter media portion and a first end cap for retaining an axially disposed sealing member; (b) an end device sized to engage with the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing member; and (c) an anti-rotation device configured and arranged to prevent the filter cartridge and the cover assembly from rotating relative to each other.

[0102] In an exemplary implementation:

[0103] - The end device includes a cover.

[0104] - The cover is removably housed within the filter head.

[0105] - The end device includes a filter head.

[0106] - The anti-rotation device includes a structure with protrusions and receiving parts.

[0107] - The prominent area receiving section arrangement structure is positioned to provide less than full radial support to the sealing member.

[0108] - The sealing member is supported at at least some locations along the radially inner or radially outer side of the sealing member, or both the radially inner and radially outer side.

[0109] - The anti-rotation device includes a first component on the filter cartridge and a second component on the end device.

[0110] - The first component of the anti-rotation device includes: (a) an outer ring of protrusions and receiving portions that externally connect to the sealing member; (b) each protrusion in the outer ring defining a closed area; (c) each receiving portion in the outer ring defining an open area; and (d) the ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.

[0111] - The second component of the anti-rotation device includes: (a) a first set of shells with protrusions and receiving portions; (b) each protrusion in the first set of shells defining a closed area; (c) each receiving portion in the first set of shells defining an open area; and (d) the ratio of the open area of ​​the first set of shells to the closed area of ​​the first set of shells is 1 to 1.3.

[0112] - The first component of the anti-rotation device on the filter cartridge includes a protrusion located radially inside the sealing member and an inner ring of the receiving portion, such that the sealing member is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring.

[0113] - The second component of the anti-rotation device on the end device includes a protrusion located radially inside the first housing ring and a second housing ring receiving portion; wherein, when the end device abuts against the filter cartridge, the sealing member is located between the first housing ring and the second housing ring.

[0114] - The filter cartridge includes a filter cartridge threaded portion; the end device includes an end device threaded portion, which is positioned to rotatably engage the filter cartridge threaded portion.

[0115] - The first and second components of the anti-rotation device are positioned to engage before the filter cartridge thread and the end device thread engage.

[0116] - The filter media section includes a cylindrical extension of pleated media that surrounds the interior of the open filter and extends between a first end cap and a second end cap, the first end cap having an opening communicating with the interior of the open filter.

[0117] In one aspect, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) an end device including: (i) a housing having a surrounding wall externally connecting to an opening; (ii) a surrounding wall having an axially extending end surface; (iii) a housing outer ring with circumferentially spaced protrusions; and (b) a filter cartridge having a filter media portion and an end cap device holding a sealing member, the end cap device being nested with the housing outer ring to rotatably secure the filter cartridge and the end device.

[0118] In an exemplary implementation:

[0119] - The end cap assembly of the filter cartridge includes an outer ring protrusion that is nested within a housing outer ring that is circumferentially spaced out, the outer ring protrusion of the filter cartridge being positioned to support the sealing member radially.

[0120] The housing also includes a circumferentially spaced inner ring of protrusions, which is radially spaced from the outer ring and is surrounded by the outer ring.

[0121] - The end cap assembly of the filter cartridge includes an inner ring protrusion that is radially located inside and spaced apart from the outer ring protrusion, wherein a sealing member is located between the outer ring protrusion and the inner ring protrusion.

[0122] - The outer ring protrusion on the filter cartridge includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced outer teeth; the inner ring protrusion on the filter cartridge includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced inner teeth; the outer teeth are sized to nest between the outer ring protrusions of the housing; and the inner teeth are sized to nest between the inner ring protrusions of the housing.

[0123] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is different from the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0124] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the housing is less than the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0125] - The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the housing is different from the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0126] - The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the housing is less than the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0127] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the housing is equal to the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge; the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the housing is equal to the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0128] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing.

[0129] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is different from the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing.

[0130] - The number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge is equal to the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0131] - The number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge is different from the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

[0132] - The filter media section includes a cylindrical extension of pleated media that surrounds the interior of the open filter and extends between a first end cap and a second end cap; and the end cap assembly is an integral part of the first end cap.

[0133] - The first end cap has an opening communicating with the interior of the open filter; the end cap assembly is located on the axial portion of the first end cap and externally connected to the opening; and the opening in the housing communicates with the opening of the first end cap and the interior of the open filter.

[0134] - The housing holds the filter cartridge in a removable manner, the housing having a housing threaded section; and the end device has an end device threaded section, the end device threaded section being positioned to connect with the housing threaded section.

[0135] - There is a distance D1 between the starting point of the threaded section of the housing and the tip of the protruding device, and a distance D2 between the starting point of the threaded section of the end device and the tip of the protruding part; and distance D1 is greater than distance D2.

[0136] On the other hand, a filter cartridge is provided, comprising: (a) a tubular media package defining an open media interior, the tubular media package having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) a central longitudinal axis centered within the tubular media package and passing through the first and second ends; (c) an end device fixed to the first end of the tubular media package; (d) a sealing member fixed to an axial portion of the end device in a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis; and (e) an anti-rotation device to minimize wrinkling of the sealing member when the filter cartridge is fixed to either a filter cover or a filter head.

[0137] In the example:

[0138] - The anti-rotation device is fixed to the end device or integrated with the end device.

[0139] - The anti-rotation device is positioned on the axial portion of the end device adjacent to the sealing member.

[0140] - The anti-rotation device includes multiple protrusions located between the sealing member and the outer periphery of the end device.

[0141] - Multiple protrusions are separated by receiving portions arranged on the outer ring of the external sealing member.

[0142] - Each protrusion in the outer ring of the protrusion defines a closed area; each receiving portion in the outer ring of the receiving portion defines an open area; and the ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0143] - The end device also includes a series of internally located protrusions spaced apart in the circumferential direction, the protrusions being separated by a receiving portion arranged on an inner ring, the inner ring being radially located inside and spaced apart from the outer ring; and a sealing member located between the outer ring and the inner ring.

[0144] - Each protrusion in the inner circle of the protrusion defines a closed area; each receiving portion in the inner circle of the receiving portion defines an open area; and the ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the inner circle is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0145] - The end device includes a first end cap fixed to a first end of a medium package; the first end cap has a first axial surface oriented away from the medium package and a second axial surface oriented toward the medium package; and an outer ring, an inner ring and a sealing member are located on the first axial surface.

[0146] - The first end cap has an opening that communicates with the interior of the open medium.

[0147] - The inner ring is radially spaced from the opening and externally connected to the opening.

[0148] - The outer ring is along the outer edge of the first end cap.

[0149] - The number of protrusions in the outer ring of the spaced-out protrusions is equal to the number of protrusions in the inner ring.

[0150] - The number of protrusions in the outer ring of the spaced-out protrusions differs from the number of protrusions in the inner ring.

[0151] - Each protrusion in the outer ring has the same geometry as each protrusion in the inner ring.

[0152] - Each protrusion in the outer ring has a geometry that is different from that of each protrusion in the inner ring.

[0153] - Each of the protrusions in the outer ring has a triangular shape.

[0154] - Each of the protrusions in the inner ring has a triangular shape.

[0155] In another aspect, a method is provided for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end device, the filter end device being either a filter head or a filter cover; the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing; the filter cartridge has a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter end device; the filter end device has a plurality of end device protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge; the method includes: positioning the cartridge protrusions to be at least partially received within the end device receiving portions, thereby allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end device; after the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end device, engaging a threaded portion on the housing with a threaded portion on the end device; and rotating the housing relative to the end device to connect the filter assembly to the filter end device in a screw-on manner.

[0156] In an exemplary method, (a) the filter cartridge includes an axially mounted sealing member adjacent to the cartridge protrusion and the receiving portion; and (b) the step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end device includes: radially supporting the sealing member between the cartridge protrusion and the end device protrusion.

[0157] In one example, the filter cartridge may include: a tubular media package defining an open media interior, the tubular media package having a first end and an opposite second end; a central longitudinal axis centered within the tubular media package and passing through the first and second ends; an end cap secured to the first end of the tubular media package; a sealing member secured to an axial portion of the end cap; and a plurality of first protrusions extending axially from the end cap, the plurality of first protrusions being arranged circumferentially and located near the radial side of the sealing member.

[0158] In some examples, multiple first protrusions are externally connected to sealing members.

[0159] In some examples, multiple first protrusions are externally connected to the sealing member.

[0160] In some examples, multiple first protrusions extend axially beyond the sealing member.

[0161] In some examples, each of the multiple first protrusions has a similar geometry.

[0162] In some examples, the multiple first protrusions include one or more protrusions that are different from one or more other protrusions.

[0163] In some examples, the multiple first protrusions have one of the following shapes: triangular shape; trapezoidal shape; rectangular shape with flat ends, rounded ends or pointed ends; and curved shape.

[0164] In some examples, multiple first protrusions have symmetrical shapes.

[0165] In some examples, multiple first protrusions have asymmetrical shapes.

[0166] In some examples, multiple first protrusions are separated by multiple first receiving gaps.

[0167] In some examples, each of the multiple first receiving gaps has a similar geometry.

[0168] In some examples, the plurality of first receiving gaps includes one or more receiving gaps that are different from one or more other receiving gaps.

[0169] In some examples, each of the plurality of first protrusions has a similar geometry, and each of the plurality of first receiving gaps has a similar geometry.

[0170] In some examples, the circumferential arrangement includes multiple second protrusions arranged circumferentially.

[0171] In some examples, multiple first protrusions are externally connected to a sealing member, and the sealing member is externally connected to multiple second protrusions.

[0172] In some examples, the peaks of the multiple first protrusions are radially aligned with the peaks of the multiple second protrusions.

[0173] In some examples, the peaks of the multiple first protrusions are radially misaligned with the peaks of the multiple second protrusions.

[0174] In some examples, the protrusions in the plurality of first protrusions have a geometry similar to that of the protrusions in the plurality of second protrusions.

[0175] In some examples, the protrusions in the plurality of first protrusions have a geometry that is different from the geometry of the protrusions in the plurality of second protrusions.

[0176] An exemplary method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end device, the filter end device being either a filter head or a filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing; the filter cartridge having an axially mounted sealing member; the filter end device having a plurality of end device protrusions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge;

[0177] The method may include the following steps: positioning a filter cartridge such that a sealing member is at least partially received within an end-device protrusion, thereby allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end-device; after the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end-device, engaging a threaded portion on the housing with a threaded portion on the end-device; and rotating the housing relative to the end-device to screw-connect the filter assembly to the filter end-device in a screw-able manner, such that the end-device protrusion radially supports the side of the sealing member of the filter cartridge. In some examples, the end-device includes multiple end-device receptacles, and the filter cartridge includes multiple filter cartridge protrusions, wherein the step of positioning the filter cartridge includes: positioning the filter cartridge such that the end-device receptacles receive the multiple filter cartridge protrusions.

[0178] The following description lists various examples of desired product features or methods, some of which will be obvious from the description or can be learned by practicing various aspects of this disclosure. Aspects of this disclosure relate to individual features as well as combinations of features. It should be understood that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary only and do not limit the claimed invention. Attached Figure Description

[0179] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the filter assembly including a filter cartridge operably mounted within a filter cup and connected to a filter head, the cross-section being along... Figure 2 The line AA was intercepted.

[0180] Figure 1A yes Figure 1 An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter cartridge depicted in the image.

[0181] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Top view of the filter assembly.

[0182] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, but the filter cartridge is not installed inside.

[0183] Figure 4 It comes from Figure 3 Enlarged view of the cross-section of the filter assembly.

[0184] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a liquid filter assembly constructed according to the principles of this disclosure.

[0185] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Cross-sectional view of the component.

[0186] Figure 7 Is Figure 6 A three-dimensional view of the filter cartridge used in the components.

[0187] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge.

[0188] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 The amplified portion of the filter cartridge.

[0189] Figure 9A This is a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the filter cartridge, wherein the sloping surface serves as a component separate from the rest of the filter cartridge end cap.

[0190] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 An enlarged perspective view of the top part of the filter cartridge.

[0191] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A magnified 3D image of a portion of the image.

[0192] Figure 12 yes Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the filter assembly.

[0193] Figure 13 yes Figure 5 A perspective view of the housing of the liquid filter assembly.

[0194] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the shell.

[0195] Figure 14A yes Figure 14 A magnified view of a portion of it.

[0196] Figure 15 yes Figure 1 Top-view perspective of the cover used in the filter assembly.

[0197] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Cross-sectional view of the cover.

[0198] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 A stepped portion of the cover is oriented in Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge.

[0199] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 An enlarged 3D view of a portion of the cover.

[0200] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A magnified 3D image of a portion of the image.

[0201] Figure 20 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the joint between the filter cover and the filter element.

[0202] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A schematic cross-sectional view of the implementation in another joining step.

[0203] Figure 22 yes Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter assembly, but without filter elements installed inside the cover filter assembly.

[0204] Figure 23 yes Figure 22 Top view of the component's cross-sectional plan.

[0205] Figure 24 yes Figure 22 A schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly during the assembly step, wherein the filter elements are operably positioned within the filter assembly.

[0206] Figure 25 yes Figure 24 A schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly during another assembly step.

[0207] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 Top view plan section of the filter component.

[0208] Figure 27 yes Figure 25 and Figure 26 A schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, showing the complete assembly.

[0209] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 Top plan view of the filter assembly.

[0210] Figure 29 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative implementation of the filter assembly during an assembly step.

[0211] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 Top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly.

[0212] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 A schematic cross-sectional view of the implementation during another assembly step.

[0213] Figure 32 yes Figure 31 Top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly.

[0214] Figure 33 yes Figure 29 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment shows a filter assembly without a filter element operably mounted therein.

[0215] Figure 34 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the filter assembly according to the present disclosure, including a filter cartridge operably mounted (fully assembled) within a filter bowl and connected to a filter head.

[0216] Figure 35 yes Figure 34A front view of a portion of the filter assembly during a step of connecting the filter cartridge and the bowl-shaped piece to the filter head.

[0217] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 A three-dimensional view of the filter component.

[0218] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 A 3D view of the fully assembled filter assembly.

[0219] Figure 38 yes Figures 17 to 34 A perspective view of the filter cartridge used in the filter assembly.

[0220] Figure 39 yes Figures 17 to 34 A 3D view of the filter head used in the filter assembly.

[0221] Figure 40 This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the filter assembly according to the present disclosure, including a canister having a filter head and a removable cover, and a filter cartridge (not visible) operably mounted inside the canister and connected to the filter head and cover.

[0222] Figure 41 yes Figure 40 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, showing the filter cartridge operably installed inside the tank and connected to the filter head and cover.

[0223] Figure 42 yes Figure 41 An enlarged view of a portion of the filter component.

[0224] Figure 43 yes Figure 40 A perspective view of the filter cartridge and filter cover during an assembly step.

[0225] Figure 44 This is a schematic diagram of an implementation of a filter assembly during a step of attaching the assembly to the filter head or cover.

[0226] Figure 45 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filter assembly during a step of attaching the assembly to the filter head or cover; and

[0227] Figure 46 This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the filter assembly during a step of attaching the assembly to the filter head or cover.

[0228] Figures 47 to 50A partial view of an alternatively constructed shifting device and extension is shown, which can be used with any of the filter components disclosed herein.

[0229] Figures 51 to 52 This is a plan view illustrating the geometry of the protrusion-receiver arrangement for the filter assembly disclosed herein.

[0230] Figure 53 and Figure 54 This is a schematic plan view, illustrating another geometric aspect of the protrusion-receiver arrangement of the filter assembly disclosed herein.

[0231] Figures 55 to 66 It is a plan view of a protrusion-receiver arrangement structure that can be used with any filter assembly disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0232] An overview of an exemplary filter component. Figure 1 and Figure 5

[0233] Figure 1 and Figure 5 Two different liquid filter devices or components 20 are shown. Although these components 20 are constructed differently and are used in different filtration systems (as will be explained further), common reference numerals are used for common parts.

[0234] Liquid filter assembly 20 includes a serviceable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or filter cartridge 34 operably positioned therein. Figure 1 and Figures 6 to 10 The filter element or filter cartridge 34 has a first end 82 and an opposite second end 84.

[0235] The end device 21 can be removably positioned above the filter element 34. As used herein, "end device 21" may include the filter head 24 or a top component or cover 28. Figure 5 In component 20, the filter head 24 includes a cover 28, which is removably positioned on the filter head 24; while Figure 1 In component 20, the filter head 24 has no removable cover. For a typical liquid filter assembly, the filter head 24 would be a cast component, for example, a cast component made of cast aluminum or other materials. Figure 5 In component 20, cover 28 is secured to filter head 24 by threaded fastener 48 to close maintenance opening by sealing member 50.

[0236] Component 20 may also include a housing 22 having sidewalls 30. In use, the sidewalls 30 extend from the filter head 24 (in a downward direction). Typically, the housing 22 defines an internal volume 32. Figure 4 and Figure 14 In this internal volume section 32, selected internal component portions are accommodated and certain filtration and flow operations occur.

[0237] Here, "top," "above," and "below" refer to the orientation for normal use, i.e., when in the position of... Figure 1 and Figure 5 Component 20 when oriented. These terms in themselves are not intended to be restrictive or have further limitations.

[0238] A typical serviceable filter cartridge 34 also includes an end cap device 36 at a first end 82, which may be an upper end cap or a first end cap 38, providing a preferred mounting and sealing of the serviceable filter cartridge 34 to the filter head 24 within the liquid filter assembly 20. The second end 84 of the filter cartridge 34 includes a second end cap 39.

[0239] Generally, the serviceable filter cartridge 34 includes a first end cap 38 (located at the top during use). For the particular embodiment depicted, the first end cap 38 is mounted at the end (upper end during use) of the filter cartridge 34. The first end cap 38 includes an end cap portion 52, which, for example, may be a molded member fixed (i.e., potted) to the filter cartridge 34. The end cap portion 52 includes a central aperture 54 for guiding liquid from the end device 21 through the central aperture 54 or guiding liquid through the central aperture 54 to the end device 21.

[0240] End cap 38 can be molded from various moldable plastic materials such as polyamide (PA). For example, glass-filled polyamide (15% to 30% glass by weight) is available. End cap 38 can also be formed as a metal part.

[0241] The filter cartridge 34 includes a filter media section 56, sometimes referred to herein as "media package 56". The media section 56 may be a pleated media 58 contained within a pleated mesh or similar structure, the pleats extending between opposite first end caps 38 and second end caps 39.

[0242] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the media package 56 is generally tubular and surrounds an open volume. The tubular media package 56 is depicted as having a cylindrical shape. A central longitudinal axis 90 is centered within the media package 56 and passes through the first end 82 and the second end 84 of the element 34.

[0243] Figure 1Typical operation of component 20 is as follows: Filter head 24 includes a fluid inlet passage 40 that receives dirty fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows into filter head 24 and then into unfiltered liquid volume 23, specifically the volume between sidewall 30 and filter media 56. From unfiltered liquid volume 23, the fluid passes through filter media 56 (referred to herein as the "filtered flow"), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. The fluid then enters filtered liquid volume 25, located inside media package 56. From filtered liquid volume 25, the filtered liquid flows through orifice 54 in first end cap 38 and into filter head 24. The filtered liquid exits filter head 24 through outlet passage 27. The above describes a "forward flow" operation (from outside to inside). In some cases, component 20 can also operate in a "reverse flow" operation, where fluid flows from inside to outside.

[0244] Figure 5 Typical operation of component 20 generally proceeds as follows. The filter head 24 generally includes a body 26 having fluid passages 40, 42. Fluid passage 40 is typically an inlet 40 or inlet device. Fluid passage 42 can be a bypass passage. The liquid to be filtered is directed to the inlet device 40. The unfiltered liquid then flows into the unfiltered liquid volume 44 inside the filter cartridge 34. Generally, volume 44 is an "unfiltered liquid volume" because the liquid received in volume 44 will typically be received directly from the circulation loop and will be unfiltered and require filtration. In normal operation, the liquid passes through the unfiltered liquid volume 44 through the filter cartridge 34 to the filtered volume 46 (filtered flow) surrounding the filter cartridge 34. The liquid can then pass from the filtered volume 46 through the filter cartridge 34 to the tank containing the filter cartridge 34. While alternatives are possible, it is worth noting that... Figure 5 The components do not include the central riser that protrudes into the filter cartridge 34.

[0245] Figure 1 The second end cap 39 is closed. Generally, the second end cap 39 can be either closed or open. Figure 6 In the middle, the sealing member 59 abuts against the outer radial surface of the second end cap 39 and forms an outward radial sealing member with the side wall 30 of the housing 22.

[0246] In some components, it may be desirable to provide a downstream outer bushing 60 for the filter cartridge 34. Figure 6 For example, bushings made of porous metal or plastic. For Figure 1The forward flow assembly has a downstream bushing 29 that is an inner bushing 29 that surrounds the filtered liquid volume 25 inside the media package 56.

[0247] exist Figure 1 In this filter element 34, a sealing member 31 is included. The sealing member 31 is radially oriented to form a seal with a portion of the filter head 24. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 31 is held by a sealing member retaining protrusion 33, which extends axially from the first end cap 38 in a direction away from the filter media package 56 and toward the filter head 24. The sealing member 31 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 23 and the filtered liquid volume 25. The sealing member 31 is radially positioned between a radial position at the upstream tip and a radial position at the downstream tip of the pleated media portion 58.

[0248] exist Figure 7 In this embodiment, filter element 34 includes a sealing member 92, which is fixed to an axial portion 94 of end cap assembly 36 in a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis 90. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the sealing member 92 is oriented on the axial portion 94 of the first end cap 38. Figure 9 As shown, the axial portion 94 of the supporting sealing member 92 is configured orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. However, the axial portion 94 may be provided with a truncated cone shape, which may be tilted at an angle toward or away from the longitudinal axis, such that the axial portion is configured at an angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0249] In some implementations, and as such Figure 7 , Figure 10 and Figure 11 As shown, an optional anti-rotation device 98 may be provided. The anti-rotation device 98 is configured to minimize or prevent wrinkling of the sealing member 92 when the filter element 34 is secured to the filter cover 28. The anti-rotation device 98 will be described further below.

[0250] An overview of the installation method. Figure 12

[0251] Figure 12 This is a diagram that provides information on... Figure 1 and Figure 5 An overview of the method for mounting the filter cartridge 34 into the housing 22 for each of the components.

[0252] Component 20 includes a first abutting member 62 and a second abutting member 63. When component 20 is in a first state, the first abutting member 62 and the second abutting member 63 are capable of engaging their respective respective mating surfaces / regions 62a, 63a. Figure 3 , 4The first abutting member 62 and the second abutting member 63 are prevented from abutting when the component 20 is in the second state.

[0253] Component 20 also includes a switching device 64. The switching device 64 enables component 20 to switch between a first state and a second state.

[0254] Generally, the first scenario prevents the end device 21 from being fully connected to the rest of the assembly 20, such as the filter head 24 or the housing 22. The second scenario allows full connection between the end device 21 and the rest of the assembly. "Fully connected" means that, if a threaded engagement exists, sufficient threads are secured to ensure that all sealing elements are in place to form a seal in the intended location.

[0255] While many implementations are feasible, the first abutment member 62 includes a radially flexible member 66. Figure 12 In the diagram, the radially flexible member is shown in dashed lines as moving radially along arrow 68. In a preferred embodiment, the first abutment member 62 is axially rigid. "Axially rigid" means that the first abutment member 62 is rigid in a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the radially flexible direction and does not move under normal compressive or tensile forces. "Normal" compressive or tensile forces are forces that are not large enough to damage or destroy the first abutment member 62.

[0256] The first case includes the radial flexible member 66 having a first outermost dimension, and the second case includes the radial flexible member 66 having a second outermost dimension. In some examples, the first outermost dimension is smaller than the second outermost dimension. In other examples, the first outermost dimension is larger than the second outermost dimension.

[0257] In some implementations, the radially flexible member 66 includes a radially flexible but axially rigid elastic element 70. Many embodiments are possible, including a helical elastic element, a flat elastic element, a clockwork elastic element, a flat elastic element bent to form only a partial (incomplete) loop, or a tension coil.

[0258] In some exemplary embodiments, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is at its smaller first outermost dimension when at rest (unstressed). In other embodiments, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is at its larger second outermost dimension when at rest (unstressed).

[0259] The radially flexible member 66 is an integral part of component 20. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the radially flexible member 66 is connected to an end device 21, which may include a filter head 24 or a cover 28. It is foreseeable that the radially flexible member 66 may also be connected to other parts of component 20.

[0260] The conversion device 64 is mechanically associated with the filter element 34. For example, the conversion device 64 includes a displacement device or component 72 fixed to the media package 56. In some embodiments, the conversion device 64 may also be a separate component independent of the filter element 34.

[0261] An exemplary embodiment of the shifting device 72 is as follows: Figure 1A and Figure 9 As shown. The shifting device 72 includes an engaging protrusion 74 having a front edge 76 and a rear edge 78. Figure 1A In the example, the rear edge 78 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 than the front edge 76. Figure 1 ).exist Figure 9 In the example, the front edge 76 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 than the rear edge 78.

[0262] The engaging protrusion 74 can be a radially continuous surface or a radially discontinuous surface. Figure 1A In the example shown, the engagement protrusion 74 is radially continuous. The engagement protrusion 74 may also include at least one gap, and in some cases, multiple gaps. Figure 9 In the example, the engagement protrusion 74 is continuous and there are no interruptions along the outer periphery.

[0263] The engaging protrusion 74 can be straight or other shapes (curved, irregular, etc.). Figure 9 In the example, the engagement protrusion 74 is shown as straight and forms a ramp 80 (or ramp device 80) on the filter element 34. The ramp 80 protrudes radially from the first end 82 of the filter element 34. Figure 1 In one embodiment, the engagement protrusion 74 is straight and forms a straight ramp device 80 on the filter element 34. In some examples, the engagement protrusion 74 is not straight and forms a curved ramp device 80 on the filter element 34. Figure 1 In the middle, the ramp device 80 protrudes radially from the first end 82 of the filter element, and the front edge 76 protrudes onto or above the end surface of the first end cap 38.

[0264] exist Figure 1 In this process, the radial flexible member 66 slides against the ramp device 80 to move the radial flexible member 66 to a radially inward position. When the radial flexible member 66 is an elastic member 70 and as... Figure 1 When arranged as shown, the elastic element 70 moves radially inward when engaged with the ramp device 80, and when the elastic element 70 is no longer in contact with the ramp device 80, the elastic element 70 returns to its rest position and moves radially outward back. Figure 4 ).

[0265] exist Figure 6 and Figure 17 In the middle, the radial flexible member 66 slides against the ramp 80 to move the radial flexible member 66 to a radially outward position. When the radial flexible member 66 is an elastic member 70 and as... Figure 6 and Figure 17 When arranged as shown, the elastic member 70 moves radially outward when engaging with the ramp 80, and returns to its rest position when not in contact with the ramp 80, thereby moving radially inward back.

[0266] The ramp 80 has a ramp surface 86, which is inclined according to a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle 88 relative to the longitudinal axis 90 and relative to a line 90a parallel to the longitudinal axis 90, measured along the surface between the endpoints. Figure 1A and Figure 9 ).exist Figure 1A In this configuration, the ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle of not less than 5 degrees to ensure that the elastic element 70 is radially displaced sufficiently far inward, thereby ensuring that the filter head 24 can move to engage with the housing 22. The ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle not exceeding 80 degrees to ensure that the elastic element 70 is fully radially displaced. Typically, the ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle 88 between 5 and 80 degrees. In many cases, the angle 88 will be between 15 and 75 degrees. Preferably, the angle 88 is between 30 and 40 degrees.

[0267] exist Figure 9 In this arrangement, the ramp surface 86 is angled at at least 5 degrees 88 to ensure that the elastic element 70 is radially displaced sufficiently to ensure that the cover 28 can move to engage with the housing 22. The ramp surface 86 is angled at no more than 80 degrees 88 to ensure that the elastic element 70 is fully radially displaced. In a preferred arrangement, the ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle 88 between 5 and 80 degrees; preferably, the ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle 88 of about 15 to 70 degrees, and typically the ramp surface 86 is angled at an angle 88 of about 20 to 30 degrees.

[0268] In the preferred arrangement, the ramp surface 86 is part of the first end cap assembly 36. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 9 As shown, the ramp surface 86 is part of the first end cap 38. Therefore, if the first end cap 38 is molded, the ramp surface 86 can be a molded portion together with the rest of the first end cap 38. Figure 9A In this part, the ramp surface 86 is a component 86a separate from the rest of the end cap 38a. This separate component 86a can be assembled or snapped onto the end cap 38a.

[0269] Figure 1 and Figure 5A filter assembly 20 is shown, wherein the filter element 34 is correctly positioned within the housing 22, and the end device 21 is mounted on and connected (threaded) to the rest of the assembly. Figure 17 and Figures 25 to 28 The steps for mounting the cover 28 onto the filter element 34 are shown. Figure 17 and Figures 25 to 28 In this process, the radially flexible yet axially rigid elastic element 70 engages with the ramp surface 86 and is radially displaced outward from a smaller size to a larger size. This radial displacement of the radially flexible yet axially rigid elastic element 70 allows the cover 28 to move axially toward the element 34 and deeper into the filter head 24. Figure 6 and Figure 27 This allows the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the cover 28 to engage. Figure 1 In this configuration, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 engages with the ramp surface 86 and is radially displaced inward from a larger dimension to a smaller dimension. This radial displacement of the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 allows the filter head 24 to move axially toward the housing 22, thereby allowing the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the housing 22 to engage.

[0270] If the filter element 34 does not include a suitably shaped ramp surface 86, or if there is no element in assembly 20, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 will not displace radially, and the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 will abut against the second abutment member 63. This abutment will prevent the end device 21 from moving deeper and entering the threaded connection 48.

[0271] For example, in Figure 3 and Figure 4 In this configuration, a radially flexible yet axially rigid elastic element 70 abuts against an inwardly projecting bracket or boss 35 extending radially inward from the side wall 30 of the housing 22, thereby preventing the filter head 24 from moving deeper into the housing 22 and blocking the threaded joint 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. The following will be combined with... Figures 1 to 4 The description provides a more detailed explanation of this.

[0272] exist Figure 13 , Figure 14 , Figure 14A and Figure 22 In the example shown, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 abuts against the extension 141 extending axially from the end structure 151 on the housing 22, thereby preventing the filter head 24 from moving deeper into the housing 22 and blocking the threaded engagement 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. The following will refer to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figures 15 to 17The description of the in-tank filter assembly will be explained in more detail.

[0273] Exemplary bowl-shaped filter cartridge device, Figures 1 to 4

[0274] Figures 1 to 4 Component 20 is a bowl-shaped filter cartridge assembly 300. In the bowl-shaped filter cartridge assembly 300, the filter cartridge (or filter element) 34 is removable and replaceable within the housing 22. The housing 22 is a bowl-shaped component 302, which can be selectively attached to and removed from the filter head 24. In this example, the bowl-shaped component 302 is located along the outer surface of the sidewall 30 and adjacent to the open opening 36. Figure 1 ) has a threaded part 304 ( Figure 3 Then, the threaded portion 304 is threadedly connected to the threaded portion 308 on the filter head 24. Figure 3 ).

[0275] Although the example shown is a bowl-shaped filter cartridge assembly 300, in an alternative, it could also be a spin-on assembly, where the element is a permanent part of the housing and cannot be removed from the housing. Instead, the combination of the housing and element is a single unit, screwed onto the filter head via threads. For servicing, the entire housing and element are disposed of and replaced on the filter head.

[0276] See also Figures 1 to 3 At the end 318 opposite to the opening 306, the bowl-shaped member 302 has an opening 320. The opening 320 can accommodate a discharge valve or other structure.

[0277] The filter head 24 has an outer wall 102 surrounding an open interior 104. A threaded portion 308 of the filter head 24 is formed along the inner surface 310 of the wall 102. The filter head 24 has a bowl-shaped receiving opening 312 defined by the wall 102, the size of which is configured to receive the bowl-shaped opening 302 for threaded engagement.

[0278] The bowl-shaped member 302 retains the sealing member 314, thereby forming a releasable seal with the filter head 24. In this example, the sealing member 314 points radially outward, away from the longitudinal axis 90. The sealing member 314 is adjacent to the end of the sidewall 30 of the housing 22.

[0279] Below the threaded portion 304 on the cup-shaped member 302 is a radially projecting stop flange 316. The flange 316 provides a stop surface or abutment surface to receive the end of the filter head 24. The threaded portion 304 is located axially between the stop flange 316 and the sealing member 314.

[0280] The filter head 24 includes an inner wall 322 ( Figure 3 The sealing member 31 from the filter element 34 forms a releasable seal with the wall 322. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 31 is radially outward, forming a seal along the radially inner surface of the wall 322. In other embodiments, the sealing member 31 may be radially inward on the outer portion of the wall 322.

[0281] Along the inner surface of the sidewall 30 of the bowl-shaped member 302 and adjacent to the opening 306 is an inwardly extending support or boss 35. The boss 35 includes a second abutment member 63 and provides an engagement area / surface 63a to receive the first abutment member 62. Figure 4 In the example shown, the boss 35 is part of the inner wall 322 of the bowl-shaped member 302, extending from the end 328 of the bowl-shaped member 302 to a point 330 spaced apart from the end 328. Figure 3 In the area of ​​the inner wall 322, the boss 35 is recessed inward relative to the rest of the inner wall 322. The distance from the point 330 to the end 328 is typically less than 10% of the total length of the sidewall 30.

[0282] The first abutting member 62, shown as radially flexible and axially rigid, of the elastic member 70, is in Figures 1 to 4 The element is depicted as being attached to the filter head 24. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 has a hole that accommodates two or more columnar elements 122 projecting radially inward from the wall 102 of the filter head 24. Figure 4 Therefore, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is slidably mounted on a plurality of columnar elements 122. These columnar elements are shown to include heads to help hold the elastic element 70, but in some arrangements and configurations, they may be headless. The radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is externally connected to the wall 102, which is itself radially spaced from and externally connected to the inner wall 322 of the filter head 24. The radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 has an engagement region / surface 62a, i.e., the end of the elastic element 70, which engages or abuts the boss 35 at the engagement surface 63a when an attempt is made to connect the filter head 24 and the cup-shaped element 302, but no filter element or an unsuitable filter element is installed in the cup-shaped element 302. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The engagement between the elastic element 70 and the boss 35 prevents the threaded portion 308 on the filter head 24 from connecting with the threaded portion 304 on the filter cup 302.

[0283] When the appropriate filter element 34 is located inside the filter bowl 302, the displacement member 72 ( Figure 1AThe filter head 24 engages with the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70, thereby allowing the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 to move radially inward. This allows the filter head 24 to move to engage and connect with the threaded portion 304 and the filter cup 302, forming a seal between the sealing member 31 and the inner wall 322; and in the sealing member 314 ( Figure 1 A seal is formed between the filter head 24 and the filter head 24.

[0284] An exemplary in-tank filter assembly; Figure 5 , Figure 6 , Figures 15 to 17

[0285] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Component 20 is an in-tank filter device 400. The in-tank filter device 400 is typically used in hydraulic systems and is immersed in the hydraulic oil tank to keep the oil clean and free of debris. In many typical installations, the in-tank filter device 400 is used to filter fluid before it leaves the tank and enters the pump's inlet line.

[0286] Now refer to Figure 5 , Figure 6 and Figures 22 to 27 The in-tank filter device 400 includes a filter head 24. The filter head 24 has a wall 102 surrounding an open interior 104 and fluid passages (e.g., 40, 42). The filter head 24 has a first fastening device 106 along the wall 102. The first fastening device 106 is shown as a threaded portion 108, forming part of a threaded connection 48. The wall 102 has opposing first ends 111 and second ends 112, each of which is open.

[0287] The filter head 24 includes a flange 154 contained within a plane generally orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 90. The flange 154 has a hole 156 (e.g., Figure 23 Hole 156 receives bolts to allow the filter head 24 to be secured to the fluid tank.

[0288] Figure 15 and Figure 16 An exemplary embodiment of the cover 28 is shown. The cover 28 is sized to be removably positioned within the interior 104 of the filter head 24. The cover 28 includes a central sleeve 114 externally connected to a fluid conduit 116 communicating with fluid channels 40, 42 of the filter head 24. A second fastener device 118 is configured and arranged to be removably connected to a first fastener device 106. The second fastener device 118 includes a threaded portion 120 for engaging with a threaded portion 108.

[0289] The first abutting member 62 of the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 is depicted herein as being attached to the cover 28. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 has a hole that accommodates two or more columnar members 122 projecting radially from the housing 114. Thus, the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 is slidably mounted on the plurality of columnar members 122. The radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 is external to the central housing 114 and moves radially in response to the force exerted on the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 by the displacement member 72.

[0290] Now refer to Figure 16 The cover 28 includes a closed cover member 126 having an outer radial surface 128 defining the second fastener device 118. A sealing ring 130 is axially spaced from the cover member 126. The sealing ring 130 retains a radially oriented sealing member 132 and is positioned to form a seal with the filter head 24.

[0291] The sealing ring 130 has a first axial surface 134 and an opposite second axial surface 136. The first axial surface 134 faces the cover member 126. The central sleeve 114 extends from the second axial surface 136.

[0292] In the example, the central housing 114 has an outer diameter that is 50% to 80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring 130. As shown, the radially oriented sealing member 132 of the sealing ring 130 points outward.

[0293] In an exemplary embodiment, the first abutment member 62 (e.g., a radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 in one example) is radially movable between an innermost position and an outermost position; the innermost position has a dimension (diameter when circular) D1. The outermost position has a dimension (diameter when circular) D2. The ratio of D1 to D2 is between 0.74 and 0.98. Figure 30 and Figure 32 An example of measuring D1 and D2 is shown in the figure. Figure 30 In this context, D1 is the dimension that passes through the geometric center and is tangent to the innermost region of the radially flexible but axially rigid elastic element 70. Figure 32 In this context, 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 elastic element 70.

[0294] Figure 13 and Figure 14 An exemplary embodiment of the sidewall 30 of the housing 22 is shown. The sidewall 30 has an open opening 140 and an opposite closed end 142. The open opening 140 receives the filter element 34 internally.

[0295] The sidewall 30 is described as tubular, particularly cylindrical, and extends between the opening 140 and the closed end 142. The sidewall includes a perforated first section 144, which functions as a filter screen 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% of the length of the first section 144.

[0296] The first segment 144 is shown as an optional second stage holding the filter media section 150. The filter media section 150 may be a pleated medium or other type of medium. The second stage of the filter media section 150 is radially spaced from the media package 56 of element 34. In the illustrated exemplary device, the second stage of the filter media section 150 is external to the media package 56, and the total length of the second stage of the filter media section 150 is between 50% and 90% of the media package 56. Many alternatives are possible.

[0297] One end of the sidewall 30 is an end structure 151. The filter media portion 150 is fixed to this end structure 151. The end structure 151 includes an axially outwardly projecting sealing retainer ring 153 that extends along the outer periphery of the end structure 151 and has an external interface portion 140. The sealing retainer ring 153 holds a sealing member 152 around its outer surface, the sealing member 152 having an external interface portion 140. In the example shown, the sealing member 152 points radially outward. The sealing member 152 forms a seal with the filter head 24 (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0298] The end structure 151 further includes one or more extensions 141 that protrude axially from the end structure 151 away from the filter media portion 150 and along the inner circumference of the end structure 151 and the inner diameter of the filter media portion 150. The length of the extension 141 is shorter than that of the sealing retaining ring 153. The sealing retaining ring 153 externally connects to the extension 141 and is radially spaced from the extension 141 to provide a receiving recess 155 between the sealing retaining ring 153 and the extension 141. Figure 14A The end structure 151 has a mating surface 157 at the closed end of the receiving recess 155. The mating surface 157 is along the outer surface of the end structure 151 opposite to the filter media portion 150. The mating surface 157 provides the following surface when the assembly is in the second state—that is, in Figure 5 In one embodiment, after the resilient 70 is bent radially outward to allow the end device 21 (such as the cover 28) to move downward—the surface is engaged by the radially flexible and axially rigid resilient 70, thereby positioning the sealing members 132 and 50 in their intended positions to form a seal with the filter head 24; and allowing a threaded connection between the cover 28 and the filter head 24.

[0299] The extension 141 may include at least one circumferentially spaced extension 141, and in the illustrated embodiment, it includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced extensions 141.

[0300] Each extension 141 includes an end 158, which is a free end of the extension 141 spaced apart from the engagement surface 157 and the filter media portion 150. The end 158 is positioned such that, when the assembly 20 is in a first state, the end 158 forms a second abutment member 63 for abutting engagement with the first abutment member 62. The first state prevents the end device 21 (cover 28 in this example) from being fully connected to the remainder of the assembly 20 (filter head 24 in this example).

[0301] like Figure 22 As shown, when the filter cartridge 34 is not installed inside the housing 22, there is no switching device 64 to allow the assembly 20 to switch to the second state. That is, there is no shifting device 72 ( Figure 9 The radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is radially bent. In this example, there is no displacement device 72 to radially bend the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 from a first (smaller) outermost dimension to a second (larger) outermost dimension. Therefore, the end of the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 abuts (engages) with the end 158 of the extension 141. This abutment is caused by... Figure 22 Arrow 159 indicates that when the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 abuts against the end 158 of the extension, it prevents the cover 28 from moving downward into the filter head 24; it also prevents threaded engagement between the threaded portion 120 on the cover 28 and the threaded portion 108 on the filter head 24, leaving a gap 147a between the threaded portion 120 on the cover 28 and the threaded portion 108 on the filter head 24. The sealing members 50 and 132 are prevented from forming a seal with the filter head 24. Figure 23 The top view shows the radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 at the first (smaller) outermost dimension.

[0302] Figure 24 and Figure 25 The assembly steps of the filter assembly 20 are shown. The filter cartridge 34 is suitably mounted in the housing 22 in a operably manner, and the sealing member 150 forms a seal with the filter head 24. Figure 24 In this configuration, the cover 28 is initially lowered into position within the filter head 24. The resilient member 70 engages with the rear edge 78 of the shifting device 72, which initially causes the resilient member to move radially outward (see arrow 161). The space between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown at gap 147b, which is too large for a threaded engagement. Figure 25 and Figure 26 In the middle, the elastic element 70 bends radially outward because the cover 28 with the elastic element 70 continues to move deeper into the filter head 24, making the gap 147b smaller, but still too large for the threaded engagement. The elastic element 70 moves towards the receiving recess 155 in the direction toward the engagement surface 157. Figure 14A )middle.

[0303] Figure 27 and Figure 28 The fully assembled assembly is shown. Cover 28 and filter head 24 are joined together, and seals 50 and 132 are positioned between cover 28 and filter head 24. A radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70 is located within receiving recess 155 and can engage abut (or be adjacent to) engagement surface 157. Figure 28 The radially flexible and axially rigid elastic element 70 is shown in the second (largest) outermost dimension.

[0304] Alternative implementation methods, Figures 20 to 21

[0305] Figure 20 and Figure 21 An alternative embodiment of the filter assembly 20 is shown. In this embodiment, the displacement member 72 includes a movable hinge 160. The movable hinge 160 is fixed to the end cap assembly 36. For example, the movable hinge 160 may be an integrally molded portion of the outer radial circumference of the first end cap 38.

[0306] The movable hinge 160 includes a first leg 162 and a second leg 164, which are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. The hinge pivot point 166 is located at the intersection of 162 and 164.

[0307] exist Figure 20 In the middle, the first leg 162 is oriented vertically and approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis 90, while the second leg 164 is oriented horizontally.

[0308] When the cover 28 is oriented onto the filter element 34, the first abutment member 62 (e.g., a radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70) is externally connected to the first leg 162 (vertically oriented leg 162). The end 168 of the first abutment member 62 (e.g., a radially flexible and axially rigid elastic member 70) abuts or engages with the second leg 164 (horizontally oriented leg 164).

[0309] exist Figure 21In this configuration, when the first abutment member 62 (e.g., the elastic element 70) contacts the horizontally oriented second leg 164, the vertically oriented first leg 162 rotates radially outward about the pivot point 166, pushing the first abutment member 62 (e.g., the elastic element 70) radially outward. The further the second leg 164 is pushed downward, the more the first leg 162 pushes the first abutment member 62 (e.g., the elastic element 70) outward. The radial displacement of the elastic element 70 allows the cover 28 to move axially toward the element 34 and deeper into the filter head 24. Figure 6 Then the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the cover 28 is allowed to engage.

[0310] Alternative implementation methods, Figures 29 to 33

[0311] Figures 29 to 33 Alternative implementations are shown. Although with Figures 22 to 28 Similar to component 20, but in this embodiment, the first abutting member 62 is a radially flexible and axially rigid flat elastic member 71. The flat elastic member 71 is shaped to form a partial closure, thereby including a gap 73 located between ends 71a and 71b (see...). Figure 30 and Figure 32 ).

[0312] In the illustrated embodiment, the flat elastic element 71 is a non-circular curved strip 71'. In the illustrated example, the flexible strip 71' has a plurality of straight segments 75 that intersect with adjacent segments 75 at vertices 77, forming an open polygon with gaps 73. However, many variations are possible; in the illustrated non-limiting example, the open polygon is octagonal in shape, having eight segments 75 and gaps 73 located between the ends 71a, 71b.

[0313] When component 20 moves between the first and second states, the flat elastic element 71 moves from the first outermost dimension ( Figure 30 and Figure 33 ) Bends radially outward to the second (larger) outermost dimension ( Figure 32 This radial bending increases the distance between ends 71a and 71b to increase the gap 73.

[0314] Figure 29 and Figure 30 The pre-bending initiation of the engagement between the flat elastic element 71 and the displacement device 72 is depicted. The filter cartridge 34 is suitably mounted in the housing 22 in a operative manner, wherein the sealing member 150 forms a seal with the filter head 24. Figure 29In this configuration, the cover 28 is initially lowered into position within the filter head 24. An engagement exists between the flat elastic member 71 and the shifting device 72, which initiates radial outward movement of the flat elastic member 71. The gap between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown at gap 147b, which is too large for a threaded engagement.

[0315] Figure 31 and Figure 32 The fully assembled assembly is shown. Cover 28 and filter head 24 are joined together, and seals 50 and 132 are positioned between cover 28 and filter head 24. A radially flexible and axially rigid flat elastic member 71 is located within the receiving recess 155. Figure 14A ), and can be engaged against (or adjacent to) the engagement surface 157. Figure 32 A flat, flexible member 71 with radial flexibility and axial rigidity at the second (largest) outermost dimension is shown.

[0316] like Figure 33 As shown, when the filter cartridge 34 is not installed in the housing 22, there is no switching device 64 to allow the assembly 20 to switch to the second state. That is, there is no shifting device 72. Figure 9 The radially flexible and axially rigid flat elastic element 71 is radially bent; in this example, there is no displacement device 72. Figure 9 The radially flexible and axially rigid flat elastic member 71 is radially bent from a first (smaller) outermost dimension to a second (larger) outermost dimension. Therefore, the end of the flat elastic member 71 abuts (engages) with the end 158 of the extension 141. When the flat elastic member 71 abuts with the end 158 of the extension, the cover 28 is prevented from moving downward into the filter head 24; threaded engagement between the threaded portion 120 on the cover 28 and the threaded portion 108 on the filter head 24 is prevented, leaving a gap 147a between the threaded portion 120 on the cover 28 and the threaded portion 108 on the filter head 24. The sealing members 50 and 132 are prevented from forming a seal with the filter head 24.

[0317] Exemplary anti-rotation device 98, Figure 10 , Figure 16 , Figure 18 , Figure 19

[0318] As described above, component 20 may include an optional anti-rotation device 98. When the filter cartridge 34 is secured to the filter cover 28, the anti-rotation device 98 minimizes or prevents the sealing member 92 from wrinkling or being squeezed.

[0319] The anti-rotation device 98 includes a filter element portion 200, which is fixed to or integral with the end cap assembly 36. Typically, as shown, the anti-rotation device 98, as a portion 200 on the filter element 34, is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap 38.

[0320] like Figure 10 As shown, a portion 200 of the anti-rotation device 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap assembly 36 adjacent to the sealing member 92. Preferably, the anti-rotation device 98 is located at a position that provides at least some lateral support to the sealing member 92.

[0321] In many preferred implementations, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation device 98 is located between the sealing member 92 and the outer periphery 170 or edge of the end cap device 36.

[0322] In the example shown, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation device 98 is along the outer periphery 170 of the first end cap 38. The filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation device 98 may include a plurality of protrusions 204. The protrusions 204 may be separated by a receiving portion 206. The protrusions 204 and the receiving portion 206 form an outer ring 208 that externally engages the sealing member 92. When positioned in this manner, the protrusions 204 are positioned to provide at least some lateral support to the sealing member 92, particularly when the filter element 34 has a filtration flow from the interior to the exterior of the filter media portion 56. If the filtration flow is reversed (i.e., from the exterior to the interior), the protrusions 204 will be disposed within a ring inside the sealing member 92.

[0323] While many implementations are feasible, each protrusion in the protrusions 204 of the outer ring 208 defines a closed region, while each receiving portion in the receiving portion 206 of the outer ring 208 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0324] Now refer to Figure 16 , Figure 18 and Figure 19 A portion of the anti-rotation device 98 may include a filter cover portion 210. The filter cover portion 210 includes a first housing 211 with protrusions 212 and receiving portions 214. Each protrusion in the protrusions 212 of the first housing 211 defines a closed region, while each receiving portion 214 of the first housing 211 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the first housing 211 is between 1 and 1.3.

[0325] In many examples, the receiving portions 206 / 214 on the component portion 200 and the cover portion 210 are positioned and sized to receive the protrusions 204 / 212 on the component portion 200 and the cover portion 210. However, the assembly does not need to be precise, and the receiving portions 206 / 214 can have larger dimensions, shapes, and areas compared to the protrusions 204, 212. The protrusions 204, 212 and the receiving portions 206, 214 together define a protrusion and receiving arrangement.

[0326] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 204 and 212 are circumferentially spaced apart by receiving portions 206 and 214 between them. In some cases, the protrusions 204 and 212 and the receiving portions 206 and 214 are evenly alternated.

[0327] In a preferred implementation, the filter element portion 200 further includes an inner ring 216 of a protrusion 217 located radially inward of the sealing member 92 and a receiving portion 218, such that the sealing member 92 is positioned between an outer ring 208 and an inner ring 216. The inner ring 216 and the outer ring 208 are oriented on an axial surface 94 of the first end cap 38, which is oriented away from the media package 56. Each protrusion of the protrusion 217 in the inner ring 216 defines a closed region, and each receiving portion 218 in the inner ring 216 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the inner ring 216 is between 0.2 and 1.0.

[0328] In this example, the inner ring 216 is external to the opening 54 in the first end cap 38. The inner ring 216 is typically radially spaced from the opening 54.

[0329] Similarly, the cover portion 210 includes a second shell 220 with a protrusion 221 radially inward of the first shell 211 and a receiving portion 222. When the cover 28 engages with the filter cartridge 34, the sealing member 92 is located between the first shell 211 and the second shell 220. Each protrusion 221 of the second shell 220 defines a closed area, and each receiving portion 222 of the second shell 220 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the second shell 220 is 1 to 1.3.

[0330] The number of protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 can be equal to or different from each other, or some can have the same number while others are different. For example, the number of protrusions 204 on the outer ring 208 can be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 217 on the inner ring 216. Similarly, the number of protrusions 212 on the first set of shell rings 211 can be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 221 on the second set of shell rings 220. The number of protrusions 204 can be equal to the number of protrusions 212.

[0331] The dimensions (height) of protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 can be equal to each other, different from each other, or some can be the same while others are different. For example, protrusions 204 and 217 can be equal or different. Protrusions 212 and 221 can be equal or different.

[0332] The outer peripheral shapes of the protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 can be identical, different, or somewhat similar but otherwise different. For example, the protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 can be teeth 230, 232, 234, and 236 with rectangular or general triangular shapes. The shapes of the receiving portions 206, 214, 218, and 222 can be the same as or different from the shapes of the protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221, including general rectangular or triangular shapes. Furthermore, the protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 and the receiving portions 206, 214, 218, and 222 can be wavy, for example, including sine waves.

[0333] In use, the end cap device 36 of the component part 200 is nested with the first set of shell rings 211, thereby fixing the filter cartridge 34 and the cover 28 in a rotatable manner.

[0334] Exemplary anti-rotation device 98, Figures 34 to 39

[0335] Figures 34 to 39 Another embodiment of the filter assembly 420 is shown. The filter assembly 420 includes a serviceable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or filter cartridge 434 operably positioned therein. The filter element or filter cartridge 434 has a first end 482 and an opposite second end 484.

[0336] The end device 421 can be removably positioned above the filter element 434. In assembly 420, the end device 421 is the filter head 424. Typically, the filter head 424 will be a cast component, for example, a cast component made of cast aluminum or other materials.

[0337] Assembly 420 also includes a bowl-shaped member / housing 422 having sidewalls 430. In use, the sidewalls 430 extend from the filter head 424 (in a downward direction). Typically, the bowl-shaped member 422 defines an internal volume 432 in which selected internal component portions, as defined, are received and certain filtration and flow operations occur. The bowl-shaped member 422 has an open port 427 through which the filter cartridge 434 can be inserted and removed. The open port 427 is also part of the bowl-shaped member 422, which is releasably connected to the filter head 424. The filter assembly 420 may also be referred to as a bowl-shaped member-cartridge assembly 420.

[0338] As described below, a typical serviceable filter cartridge 434 also includes an end cap device 436 located at a first end 482, which may be an upper end cap or a first end cap 438, providing a preferred mounting and seal between the serviceable filter cartridge 434 and the filter head 424. The second end 484 of the filter cartridge 434 includes a second end cap 439.

[0339] The first end cap 438 includes a central hole 454 for guiding liquid from the filter head 424 through the central hole 54 or guiding liquid through the central hole 54 to the filter head 424.

[0340] End cap 438 can be molded from various moldable plastic materials such as polyamide (PA). For example, glass-filled polyamide (15% to 30% glass by weight) is available. End cap 438 can also be formed as a metal part.

[0341] The filter cartridge 434 includes a filter media section 456, sometimes referred to herein as "media package 456". The media section 456 may be a pleated media 458 contained within a pleated mesh or similar structure, the pleats extending between opposite first end caps 438 and second end caps 439.

[0342] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the media package 456 is generally tubular and surrounds an open volume. The tubular media package 456 is depicted as having a cylindrical shape. A central longitudinal axis 490 is centered within the media package 456 and passes through the first end 482 and the second end 484 of the filter cartridge 434.

[0343] Figure 34Typical operation of component 420 is generally as follows: Filter head 424 receives dirty fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows into filter head 424 and then into unfiltered liquid volume 423, which is the volume between sidewall 430 and filter media volume 456. From unfiltered liquid volume 423, the fluid passes through filter media volume 456 (referred to herein as the "filtered flow"), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. The fluid enters filtered liquid volume 425, located inside media volume 456. From filtered liquid volume 425, the filtered liquid flows through orifice 454 in first end cap 438 and into filter head 424. The filtered liquid exits filter head 424 for use in the system. The above describes a "forward flow" operation (from outside to inside). In some cases, component 420 can also operate in a “reverse flow” mode, where the flow is from the inside to the outside.

[0344] Figure 34 The second end cap 439 is closed. Generally, the second end cap 439 can be closed or open. Figure 34 The component 420 has a valve assembly 426 in the bowl-shaped part 422 opposite to the open opening 427. The valve assembly 426 can be used to drain the collected water from the bottom of the bowl-shaped part 422.

[0345] The filter cartridge 434 includes a sealing member 492 fixed to an axial portion 494 of an end cap assembly 436 in a plane orthogonal to the central longitudinal axis 490. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the sealing member 492 is oriented on the axial portion 494 of the first end cap 438. The sealing member 492 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 423 and the filtered liquid volume 425. The sealing member 492 is radially positioned between a radial position at the upstream tip and a radial position at the downstream tip of the pleated media portion 458.

[0346] Component 420 includes an anti-rotation device 98, which is configured to minimize or prevent wrinkling of the sealing member 492 when the filter cartridge 434 is fixed to the filter head 424. The anti-rotation device 98 is similar to the device described above.

[0347] Anti-rotation device 98 includes filter element portion 500 ( Figure 35 and Figure 38 The filter element portion 500 is fixed to or integral with the end cap assembly 436. Typically, as shown, the portion 500 of the anti-rotation device 98 located on the filter element 434 is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap 438.

[0348] like Figure 35 As shown, portion 500 of the anti-rotation device 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap assembly 436 and adjacent to the sealing member 492. Preferably, the anti-rotation device 98 is located at a position providing at least some radial support to the axial portion 494. It is worth noting that, for clarity, Figures 35 to 38 The sealing member 492 is not shown in the diagram, and the sealing member 492 will be present in the actual installation, such as... Figure 34 As shown. In a preferred implementation, the sealing member 492 is supported at at least some locations along the radially inner side of the sealing member 492, or at least some locations along the radially outer side, or at least some locations along both the radially inner and radially outer sides.

[0349] In many preferred implementations, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation device 98 is located between the sealing member 492 and the outer periphery 570 or edge of the end cap device 436.

[0350] In the example shown, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation device 98 is along the outer periphery 570 of the first end cap 438. The filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation device 98 may include a plurality of protrusions 504. The protrusions 504 may be separated by a receiving portion 506. The protrusions 504 and the receiving portion 506 form an outer ring 508, which externally connects to the sealing member 492. When positioned in this manner, the protrusions 504 are positioned to provide at least some radial support to the sealing member 492, particularly when the filter element 434 has a filtration flow from the inside of the filter media portion 456 to the outside of the filter media portion 456. If the filtration flow is reversed (i.e., from the outside to the inside), the protrusions 504 will be disposed within a ring inside the sealing member 492.

[0351] While many implementations are feasible, each protrusion in the protrusions 504 of the outer ring 508 defines a closed region, and each receiving portion in the receiving portion 506 of the outer ring 508 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the outer ring 508 is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0352] A portion of the anti-rotation device 98 may include the filter head portion 510. Figure 39 The filter head portion 510 includes a first housing 511 with protrusions 512 and receiving portions 514. Each protrusion in the protrusions 512 of the first housing 511 defines a closed region, while each receiving portion in the receiving portions 514 of the first housing 511 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the first housing 511 is 1 to 1.3.

[0353] In many examples, the protrusion associated with the component portion 500 is received by a receiving portion on the head portion 510, while the protrusion associated with the head portion 510 is received by a receiving portion on the component portion 500. For example, as shown, the receiving portions 506 / 514 on the component portion 500 and the head portion 510 are positioned and sized to receive the protrusions 504 / 512 on the component portion 500 and the head portion 510. However, the assembly does not need to be precise, and the receiving portions 506, 514 can have larger dimensions, shapes, and areas compared to the protrusions 504, 512, for example, as will be discussed later. Figures 55 to 66 As shown in the figure, the protrusions 504 and 512 and the receiving parts 506 and 514 together define the arrangement structure of the protrusions and the receiving parts.

[0354] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 504, 512 are circumferentially spaced apart by receiving portions 506, 514 located between them. In some cases, the protrusions 504, 512 and the receiving portions 506, 514 alternate evenly, as discussed later. Figure 51 Further description.

[0355] In a preferred embodiment, the filter element portion 500 further includes a protrusion 517 located radially inward of the sealing member 492 and an inner ring 516 of the receiving portion 518, such that the sealing member 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 an axial surface 94 of the first end cap 438, which is oriented away from the media package 56. Each protrusion of the protrusion 517 of the inner ring 516 defines a closed region, and each receiving portion of the receiving portion 518 of the inner ring 516 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the inner ring 516 is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0356] In this example, the inner ring 516 is external to the opening 454 in the first end cap 438. The inner ring 516 is typically radially spaced from the opening 454.

[0357] Similarly, the head portion 510 includes a second housing 520 with a protrusion 521 radially inward of the first housing 511 and a receiving portion 522. When the filter head 424 engages with the filter cartridge 434, a sealing member 492 is located between the first housing 511 and the second housing 520. Each protrusion 521 of the second housing 520 defines a closed region, and each receiving portion 522 of the second housing 520 defines an open region. The ratio of the open region to the closed region of the second housing 520 is 1 to 1.3.

[0358] The number of protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 can be equal to or different from each other, or some can have the same number while others have different numbers. For example, the number of protrusions 504 on the outer ring 508 can 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 can be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 521 on the inner ring 520. The number of protrusions 504 can be equal to the number of protrusions 512.

[0359] The protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 may have the same or different heights, or some may have the same height while others have different heights. For example, protrusions 504 and 517 may be the same or different. Protrusions 512 and 521 may be the same or different.

[0360] The outer peripheral shapes of protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 can be the same as each other, different from each other, or some can have the same shape while others have different shapes. For example, protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 can be teeth or toothed parts with various shapes, including general triangular shapes, rectangular shapes, and wavy shapes (including sine waves, etc.). The shapes of receiving parts 506, 514, 518, and 522 can be the same as or different from the shapes of protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521.

[0361] In use, the end cap device 436 of the component part 500 is nested with the outer shell ring 511, thereby fixing the filter cartridge 434 and the filter head 424 in a rotatable manner.

[0362] In-tank filter assembly, Figures 40 to 43

[0363] Figures 40 to 43 Another embodiment shown, as an in-tank filter assembly 600, includes a tank 602 having a filter head 604 and a removable cover 606. The filter cartridge 610 can be as follows: Figure 41 The filter assembly 600 is shown to be operably installed inside the tank 602 and connected to the filter head 604 and the cover 606. The in-tank filter assembly 600 is... Figure 5 Similar to component 20, the description of the features is not repeated here, but is incorporated by reference.

[0364] Filter assembly 600 includes an axially mounted sealing member 92. Figure 42 , Figure 43It also includes an anti-rotation device 98, which is configured to minimize or prevent wrinkling of the sealing member 92 when the filter cartridge 610 is fixed to the filter head 604. The anti-rotation device 98 is similar to the device described above. Therefore, on the filter cartridge 610, the anti-rotation device 98 includes: alternating protrusions 204 and receiving portions 206 forming an outer ring 208; and an inner ring 216 of protrusions 217 and receiving portions 218 located radially inward of the sealing member 92, such that the sealing member 92 is radially positioned between the outer ring 208 and the inner ring 216. On the filter cover 606, the anti-rotation device 98 includes: a first set of shell rings 211 of alternating protrusions 212 and receiving portions 214; and protrusions 221 and receiving portions 222 ( Figure 18 , Figure 19 The second set of shell rings 220 () Figure 18 , Figure 19 ).

[0365] exist Figure 43 In the design, each of the protrusions 204, 212, 216, 221 and the receiving portions 206, 212, 214, 218 is depicted as a typical triangular shape. Other shapes are also possible. It is worth noting that in... Figure 43 For illustrative purposes, some components, such as elastic elements, are not shown.

[0366] Exemplary methods for connecting filter components

[0367] The aforementioned components can be used in a method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end device. The filter end device can be either a filter head or a filter cover. The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing and has a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter end device. The filter end device has a plurality of end device protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge. The method includes: positioning the cartridge protrusions to be at least partially received within the end device receiving portions, thereby allowing axial movement of the filter cartridge toward the end device. After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end device, engaging threads on the housing with threads on the end device. The method further includes rotating the housing relative to the end device to screw the filter assembly to the filter end device.

[0368] In another exemplary method, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing and having a sealing member configured to attach to a filter end device having a plurality of end device protrusions positioned to radially support the sealing member of the filter cartridge. The method includes positioning the filter cartridge sealing member to be at least partially received by the end device protrusions, thereby allowing axial movement of the filter cartridge toward the end device. After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end device, threads on the housing engage with threads on the end device. The method further includes rotating the housing relative to the end device to screw the filter assembly to the filter end device.

[0369] This method helps ensure that the protrusions / receivers on the filter cartridge engage with the receivers / protrusions on the filter head or cover before the mating threaded parts are engaged. This arrangement minimizes the possibility of the filter cartridge and the protrusions on the head or cover becoming stuck.

[0370] An example of a preferred device is schematically depicted in Figures 44 to 46 In these figures, the filter head or cover is shown at 702, having a threaded portion or threaded segment 704 and multiple protrusions 706, each protrusion having a free tip 708. The filter cartridge is shown at 710, removably oriented within a housing or cup-shaped member 712. The housing or cup-shaped member 712 has a threaded portion or threaded segment 714. The filter cartridge 710 has multiple protrusions 716, each protrusion having a free tip 718.

[0371] Dimension D1 is the distance measured from the starting point of the threaded section 714 on the housing / bowl-shaped member 712 to the free end tip 718 of the filter cartridge protrusion 716. Dimension D2 is the distance measured from the starting point of the threaded section 704 on the filter head / cover 702 to the free end tip 708 of the protrusion 706.

[0372] To reduce or minimize the possibility of tip-to-tip connection or jamming during installation, the protrusions can be arranged such that the tip ends 708 and 718 move axially beyond each other before the threaded portions 704 and 718 engage or contact. This arrangement can be achieved by making D1 unequal to D2, such that an axial overlap distance D3 is created between the tip ends 708 and 718 when the ends of the threaded portions 704 and 718 abut but are not yet engaged. For example, in Figure 44 In one example, a configuration is presented in which a protrusion 716 on the filter cartridge 710 is recessed into the bowl-shaped member / housing 712, wherein D1 is approximately 0.88 inches and smaller than D2, which is approximately 0.93 inches. In another example, in Figure 45In one example, a configuration is presented in which the protrusion 706 is recessed into the filter head / cover 702, wherein D1 is approximately 0.91 inches and larger than D2, which is approximately 0.78 inches. In yet another example, in Figure 46 The diagram illustrates a configuration in which protrusions 706 and 716 are positioned within the threaded region of the filter head / cover 702, where D1 is approximately 0.31 inches and greater than D2, which is approximately 0.26 inches. With the above arrangement, the resulting overlap distance D3 (i.e., the difference between D1 and D2) is in the range of 0.05 inches to 0.13 inches. However, other overlap distances are feasible.

[0373] Figures 47 to 50 Alternative displacement devices and extension components

[0374] See Figures 47 to 50 This presents a device that uses an alternative construction for the displacement device 72 and the extension member 141. Figures 47 to 50 The features of the device are mainly aimed at Figures 34 to 46 The filter component implementation shown is illustrated, but is not so limited, and can also be used in conjunction with other implementations disclosed herein.

[0375] like Figures 47 to 50 As shown, and as other disclosed embodiments herein, the end structure 151 includes a plurality of axially extending, spaced-apart extension members 141 that abut against the shifting device 72. In some characterizations, the extension members 141 may be collectively referred to as forming a castle-like, serrated, and / or battlement shape. When the filter element 34 associated with the shifting device 72 and the housing 22 associated with the extension members 141 are fully assembled, an open space or passage is formed between the end of the shifting device 72 and the adjacent extension members 141. This arrangement allows bypass flow and housing discharge flow to pass through these open spaces. However, contrary to other previously disclosed embodiments, the extension members 141 are provided with an end 158 that includes a stepped feature instead of the previously shown planar configuration. This stepped feature interacts cooperatively with a similarly shaped stepped feature located on the end 81 of the shifting device 72. Figure 49Most readily visible is the end portion 158, which is provided with axially facing surfaces 158a and 158c forming a first stepped profile and radially inward-facing surfaces 158b and 158d, while the end portion 81 is provided with axially facing surfaces 81a, 81c, and 81e forming a second stepped profile with a complementary shape and radially outward-facing surfaces 81b and 81d. This arrangement allows the first and second stepped profiles to engage or connect together, such that surfaces 81a / 158a and 81c / 158c and 81b, 158b abut against each other, thus forming a robust radial and axial connection. Furthermore, surface 81d, shown as having a slight taper, can act as a guide feature during initial installation by providing an inclined surface. This inclined surface can interact with the corners formed by surfaces 158c and 158d to center or position the filter element 34 relative to the housing 22, so that the first and second stepped profiles can easily engage at the connection portion 83. It is worth noting that the stepped profile can be switched between component parts, such that the end 81 is provided with a radially inward surface, which faces the radially outward surface provided on the end 158.

[0376] In one aspect, the first and second stepped profile portions, through their engagement, ensure precise positioning or centering of the filter cartridge 34 relative to the housing 22. This feature advantageously ensures complete alignment of the ramp surface 86 of the shifting device 72 with the ramp surface 141a of the extension member surrounding the entire outer periphery of the shifting device 72. Since the elastic member 70 initially slides along the ramp surface 86 during installation and then transitions to sliding along the ramp surface 141a, it is advantageous to avoid any portion of the end surface 158a being exposed to the shifting device 72 or radially outside of it. Otherwise, even if the filter element 34 has been correctly installed into the housing 22, such exposed portions might undesirably act as gripping or abutting surfaces against the axial ends of the elastic member 70. It is noteworthy that the ramp surface 141a can be radially embedded from the ramp surface 86 to avoid this potential situation, rather than being completely aligned with the ramp surface 86. It should also be noted that the angles of the ramp surfaces 86 and 141a can be the same or different. Although the first and second stepped profile portions each include two axial surfaces and one radial surface to substantially form a single-stepped device, additional axial and radial surfaces can be provided to create multi-stepped profile portions. Furthermore, only a portion of the extension members 141 may be provided with stepped profile portions, while other extension members 141 may be provided with a plane or other axial end surface at a lower relative height. For example, a device may be provided in which some of the extension members have… Figure 49The outline shown is provided, while other extension members are provided with only an axial surface 158c, or even a lower surface, defining the end of the extension member.

[0377] Figures 51 to 66 The geometry of the protrusions and receiving parts of the device, and other examples.

[0378] As described above, the filter cartridge protrusions 204, 217, 504, 517, and 716; the filter cartridge receiving portions 206, 218, 506, and 518; the filter head or cover protrusions 212, 221, 512, 521, and 706; and the filter head or cover receiving portions 214, 222, 514, and 522, excluding... Figures 1 to 46 In addition to the already disclosed features, various shapes and arrangements can also be set. Figures 47 to 58 Only a few possible variations of this type are shown, in which the filter cartridge protrusion P1, the filter cartridge receiving portion R1, the filter head or cover protrusion P2, and the filter head or cover receiving portion R2 are schematically represented and can be used with any protrusion and receiving portion shown and described herein. For illustrative purposes, these figures are presented in planar, partial schematic diagrams of the protrusions and receiving portions.

[0379] While this paper describes and discloses numerous examples, it is worth noting that, at least for certain installations, certain arrangements and configurations may be preferred or contain certain advantages. For example, configurations including protrusions with sharp points can minimize surface contact and beneficially reduce protrusion-to-protrusion connections during installation. Furthermore, the sidewalls of protrusions and receptacles with relatively steep sidewalls can induce near-vertical compression, while sidewalls with relatively shallow sidewalls can help facilitate alignment between two opposing components. In some configurations, symmetrical protrusions and receptacles with an open-to-close ratio close to 1 are advantageous for aiding protrusion matching during installation and reducing connections between protrusions. For a given protrusion-receptor design, these aspects can be balanced to achieve a system with optimal performance.

[0380] As mentioned above, the protrusions and receiving portions of the filter cartridge and filter head or cover can define closed and open areas, respectively. Figure 51These features are schematically represented as A-P1 and A-R1 of the filter cartridge F, and A-P2 and A-R2 of the filter head or cover H. The sealing support surface S1 of the filter cartridge F is also schematically shown. In some of the examples above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the filter cartridge receiving portion to the closed area of ​​the filter cartridge protrusion—which can be characterized as the ratio of A-R1 to A-P1—is 0.4 to 1.6. However, other ranges are possible. For example, the ratio of A-R1 to A-P1 of the inner and / or outer rings can be, for example, 0.2 to 1.8; 0.7 to 1.8; 0.8 to 1.0; 1 to 1.8; 1 to 1; greater than 1; or less than 1. In some of the examples above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the receiving portion of the filter head or cover to the closed area of ​​the protrusion of the filter head or cover—which can be characterized as the ratio of A-R2 to A-P2—is 0.48 to 1.5. However, other ranges are feasible. For example, the ratio of A-R2 to A-P2 of the inner and / or outer rings can be, for example, 1 to 1.3; 0.2 to 1.7; 0.97 to 0.98; 1 to 1; greater than 1; or less than 1. In some configurations, symmetrical protrusions and receptacles with a ratio close to 1.0 are advantageous in facilitating matching and reducing the connection between protrusions P1 and P2 during installation.

[0381] See Figure 52 A schematic diagram is provided, showing the sealing surface S1 and / or portions of the sealing members supported thereon, which are supported or unsupported in the radial direction by protrusions P1 of one or both of the outer ring OR and the inner ring IR. Figure 52 As shown, the sealing support surface S1 is radially supported by each protrusion P1 along length L1, and is not supported by each protrusion P1 along length L2, wherein the sum of lengths L1 and L2 is equal to the length between the common points of adjacent protrusions P1. Figure 52Angle α1 is also shown, representing the angle between the sidewall of the shown protrusion P1 and a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. In some examples, L1 and L2 are typically equal to each other. In some examples, L1 is greater than L2. In some examples, L2 is greater than L1. The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 on the filter element can be between about 0.05 and 1.5 in some examples, between about 0.1 and 1.3 in some examples, and / or between about 0.2 and 0.9 in some examples. The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 on the cover or head side can be between about 0.1 and 1.4 in some examples, between about 0.2 and 1.2 in some examples, and / or between about 0.4 and 0.8 in some examples. In some examples, angle α1 is between 30 degrees and 75 degrees. In some examples, angle α1 is about 60 degrees. In some examples, angle α1 is about 45 degrees.

[0382] See Figure 53 and Figure 54 A top plan view of an exemplary protrusion and receiving portion arrangement on a filter cartridge shows an outer ring OR with protrusion P1 and receiving portion R1, an inner ring IR with protrusion P1 and receiving portion R1, and a sealing support surface S1 disposed between the outer ring OR and the inner ring IR. From this angle, it can be seen that the support length L1 corresponds to a radial angle a2, the unsupported length L2 corresponds to a radial angle a3, and the total length L3 corresponds to a radial angle a4. Similar to L1 and L2, in some examples a2 and a3 are equal, in some examples a2 is greater than a3, and in some examples a3 is greater than a2. The ratio of the unsupported length angle a3 to the support length angle a2 on the filter element and cover or head can be between about 0.25 and 1.75 in some examples, between about 0.5 and 1.5 in some examples, and / or about 1 in some examples. Figure 53 In the example shown, the peaks of the protrusions P1 associated with the inner ring IR and the outer ring OR are radially aligned with each other, while... Figure 54 In this configuration, the peak of the protrusion of the inner ring OR is offset from the peak of the protrusion P1 of the outer ring OR by an angle a5. In one example, angle a5 is in the range of 0 to 30 degrees. In some examples, a5 is equal to half of angle a4, such that the peak of the protrusion of the inner ring IR is radially aligned with the valley of the receiving portion R1 of the outer ring OR. In other words, the peak of the protrusion P1 of the inner ring IR is radially aligned in the middle between adjacent peaks of the protrusion P1 of the outer ring OR.

[0383] See Figures 55 to 66 Additional exemplary configurations of the protrusion and the receiving portion are shown. Figure 55An example is given where the number of protrusions and receiving portions P1, R1 of the filter cartridge F does not match the number of protrusions and receiving portions P2, R2 of the filter head or cover H. In the specific example shown, the number of protrusions P1 and receiving portions R1 is less than the number of protrusions P2 and receiving portions R2, but the reverse is also possible.

[0384] See Figure 56 Examples are provided where the protrusions P1 and R2 have different shapes compared to the protrusions P2 and R1. In the example shown, the protrusions P1 and R2 are triangular, while the protrusions P2 and R1 are trapezoidal. Reverse configurations are also possible, as are many other combinations.

[0385] See Figures 57 to 60 This provides further examples of possible shapes for the protrusions and receptacles. Figure 57 An example is shown in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receiving parts R1, R2 are provided with a trapezoidal shape. Figure 58 Examples are shown in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receiving parts R1, R2 are provided with curved, wavy or sinusoidal shapes. Figure 59 An example is shown in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receiving parts R1, R2 are provided with a rectangular shape. Figure 60 An example is shown in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receiving portions R1, R2 are provided with a rectangular shape with pointed ends. Rounded ends may also be provided. Other configurations and shapes are also possible.

[0386] See Figure 61 The diagram illustrates a configuration in which the protrusions P1, P2 and the receiving portions R1, R2 are asymmetrical in shape. In the example shown, the protrusions and receiving portions are provided with a serrated shape. Other configurations and shapes are also possible.

[0387] See Figure 62 The illustration shows configurations in which adjacent protrusions P1, P2 and receiving portions R1, R2 differ from each other. In the example shown, the protrusions and receiving portions have three different sizes and shapes of triangles, with different circumferential widths and different axial lengths or depths. More or fewer different shapes and / or sizes can be provided, and they can be provided in repeating patterns or without a specific pattern to produce rotational symmetry, ranging from single-fold rotational symmetry to any desired number of symmetries.

[0388] See Figure 63 and Figure 64 The following configuration is shown: in which the sealing support surface S1 is set at an inclined angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge F. Figure 63A configuration is shown in which the protrusion and the receiving portion are arranged along a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge; Figure 64 A configuration is shown in which the protrusion and the receiving portion are also oriented at an angle to the longitudinal axis. With this arrangement, the filter head sealing surface will be similarly angled or set to form a suitable seal, such that the angled sealing member is supported by the sealing surface S1.

[0389] pass Figures 62 to 65 As shown in the configuration, the filter cartridge F can be received by the cover or head H in a limited number of rotational positions or even just a single rotational position. In this case, the filter cartridge F and / or the cover or head H can be provided with rotational alignment features, including rotational alignment features of the type known in the art. For example, alignment features of the type shown and described in U.S. Patent 11,839,842, entitled “Liquid Filter Assemblies; Features; Components; and Methods”, published December 12, 2023, can be incorporated into the filter assemblies disclosed herein. The entire contents of U.S. Patent 11,839,842 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0390] See Figure 65 Another example is provided, in which at least a portion of the sealing support surface is configured at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. In this example, the sealing support surface S1 is provided with an axially offset undulating or sinusoidal shape. Therefore, the seal mounted on the sealing support surface S1 will also be provided with a similar shape. The opposing surface on the filter head against which the sealing member forms the seal will also be provided with a similar shape. It is worth noting that the engagement between the protrusions P1 and P2 ensures that the filter cartridge F can only be installed in one of many predefined angular orientations, such that the undulating sealing member will always be aligned with the undulating sealing surface on the filter head to form a proper seal. In the example shown, the peak of the sealing support surface S1 is aligned with the receiving portion R1, but it can also be arranged to be aligned with the peak of the protrusion P1. In the example shown, the sealing support surface S1 has the same number of peaks as the protrusion P1, but it can also have more or fewer peaks. In the example shown, the sealing support surface is provided with a uniform undulating profile, but it can also have an irregular or asymmetrical profile.

[0391] See Figure 66An example is provided illustrating that the protrusion of the filter element F can have different dimensions and shapes relative to the receiving portion. On one hand, the filter element protrusion P1 has a maximum width W1 and a maximum height H1 to define a first region A1, while the receiving portion R2 of the cover or head H has a width W2 and a height H1 to define region A2. In the example shown, height H1 is less than height H2, width W1 is less than width W2, and region A1 is smaller than region A2. In some examples, heights H1 and H2 are generally equal, while width W1 is less than width W2, thus still resulting in region A1 being smaller than region A2. As shown in some examples, widths W1 and W2 are generally equal, while height H1 is less than height H2, thus still resulting in region A1 being smaller than region A2. Figure 66 As shown, the protrusion P1 may have a shape similar to or different from the receiving portion. For example, Figure 66 The left side shows a triangular protrusion P1 and a receiving portion R1, while Figure 66 The right side shows a circular protrusion P1 and a triangular receiving portion R1. Many other possible combinations of different shaped receiving portions R1 and protrusions P1 are feasible, provided that the area A1 of the protrusion P1 remains smaller than the area A2 of the receiving portion R1, and the outer periphery or boundary edge of the receiving portion R1 can circumferentially connect to the outer periphery or boundary edge of the protrusion P1. In some examples, the ratio of A1 to A2 is between 0 and 1, between 0.25 and 0.75, and approximately 0.5. On the other hand, 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 the protrusion P1 or otherwise adjacent to the protrusion P1. In some examples, on one side of the protrusion P1, the ratio of area A3 to the total radial surface area of ​​the sealing member SM can be between 0 and 1, between 0.25 and 0.75, and approximately 0.5. When the ratio is 1, all support for the sealing material SM is provided by the protrusion P2 associated with the cover or head H, because there are configurations where either no protrusion P1 is provided or the protrusion P1 does not overlap with the sealing material SM. Although the configuration—in which the area of ​​the protrusion P1 is smaller than the area of ​​the corresponding reception R2, or in which no protrusion P1 is provided or is provided at a location where the sealing member is not supported—results in less radial support for the sealing material SM in the installation case, this arrangement can still be satisfactory for certain installation and operating conditions. Furthermore, the advantage of providing a protrusion P1 with a smaller area than the corresponding reception R2 is that it reduces the initial alignment accuracy between the filter cartridge and the cover, or may require a lower initial alignment accuracy between the filter cartridge and the cover.

[0392] The above presents exemplary principles. Many implementation methods can be carried out using these principles.

Claims

1. A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: (a) A filter cartridge having a filter medium section and a first end cap, the first end cap having an axially disposed sealing member; (b) An end device, the end device being sized to engage with the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing member; as well as (c) Anti-rotation device, which is constructed and arranged to prevent the filter cartridge and the end device from rotating relative to each other.

2. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The end device includes a cover.

3. The filter assembly according to claim 2, further comprising a filter head, wherein, The cover is removably received within the filter head.

4. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The end device includes a filter head.

5. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The anti-rotation device includes a structure with a protrusion and a receiving part.

6. The filter assembly of claim 5, wherein, The arrangement of the protrusion and the receiving part is positioned to provide less than full radial support to the sealing member.

7. The filter assembly of claim 5, wherein, The sealing member is supported at at least some locations along the radially inner side, radially outer side, or both radially inner side and radially outer side of the sealing member.

8. The filter assembly of claim 7, wherein, The anti-rotation device includes a first component on the filter cartridge and a second component on the end device.

9. The filter assembly of claim 8, wherein, The first component of the anti-rotation device includes: (a) The outer ring of the protrusion and the receiving portion that are externally connected to the sealing member; (b) wherein each of the protrusions in the outer ring defines a closed area; (c) wherein each protrusion in the receiving portion of the outer ring defines an open area; and (d) wherein the ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.

10. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein, The second component of the anti-rotation device includes: (a) The first set of shell rings for the protrusion and receiving portion; (b) wherein each of the protrusions in the first set of shell rings defines a closed area; (c) wherein each of the receiving portions in the first set of shell rings defines an open area; and (d) Wherein, the ratio of the open area of ​​the first set of shell rings to the closed area of ​​the first set of shell rings is 1 to 1.

3.

11. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein, The first component of the anti-rotation device on the filter cartridge includes an inner ring of a protrusion and a receiving portion located radially inside the sealing member, such that the sealing member is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring.

12. The filter assembly of claim 11, wherein, The second component of the anti-rotation device on the end device includes a second housing ring located radially inside the first housing ring and a receiving portion, wherein the sealing member is located between the first housing ring and the second housing ring when the end device is engaged against the filter cartridge.

13. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein: (a) The filter cartridge includes a threaded portion; and (b) The end device includes an end device threaded portion, which is positioned to rotatably engage the filter cartridge threaded portion.

14. The filter assembly of claim 13, wherein, The first and second components of the anti-rotation device are positioned to engage before the filter cartridge thread engages with the end device thread.

15. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: (a) The filter media section includes a cylindrical extension of a pleated media section, the cylindrical extension surrounding the interior of the open filter and extending between the first end cap and the second end cap; and (b) The first end cap has a hole communicating with the interior of the open filter.

16. A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: (a) an end device, the end device comprising: (i) A casing having a surrounding wall that externally connects to the opening; (ii) The surrounding wall has an axial surface at the end; (iii) The outer ring of the casing with circumferentially spaced protrusions; and (b) A filter cartridge having a filter media section and an end cap device holding a sealing member, the end cap device being nested with the outer ring of the housing, thereby rotatably fixing the filter cartridge and the end device.

17. The filter assembly of claim 16, wherein, The end cap assembly includes an outer ring protrusion that is nested within the outer ring of the housing, which is spaced apart circumferentially, and the outer ring protrusion of the filter cartridge is positioned to support the sealing member radially.

18. The filter assembly of claim 16, wherein, The casing also includes a circumferentially spaced inner ring of protrusions, the inner ring of the casing being radially spaced from the outer ring of the casing and the inner ring of the casing being surrounded by the outer ring of the casing.

19. The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein, The end cap device includes an inner ring protrusion device, which is located radially inside and spaced apart from the outer ring protrusion device, wherein the sealing member is located between the outer ring protrusion device and the inner ring protrusion device.

20. The filter assembly of claim 17, wherein: (a) The outer ring protrusion on the filter cartridge includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced external teeth; as well as (b) The inner ring protrusion on the filter cartridge includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced internal teeth; (c) wherein the size of the outer tooth portion is set to be nested between the outer ring protrusions of the housing; and the size of the inner tooth portion is set to be nested between the inner ring protrusions of the housing.

21. The filter assembly of claim 20, wherein, The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is different from the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge.

22. The filter assembly of claim 20, wherein, The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is less than the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge.

23. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein, The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing is different from the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

24. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein, The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing is less than the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

25. The filter assembly of claim 20, wherein: (a) The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is equal to the number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge; and (b) The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the housing is equal to the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

26. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is equal to the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing.

27. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the casing is different from the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the casing.

28. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, The number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge is equal to the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

29. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein, The number of spaced external teeth on the filter cartridge is different from the number of spaced internal teeth on the filter cartridge.

30. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 29, wherein: (a) The filter media section includes a cylindrical extension of a pleated media section, the cylindrical extension surrounding the interior of the open filter and extending between a first end cap and a second end cap; and (b) The end cap device is an integral part of the first end cap.

31. The filter assembly of claim 30, wherein: (a) The first end cap has a hole communicating with the interior of the open filter; (b) The end cap device is located on the axial portion of the first end cap and externally connected to the hole; as well as (c) The opening in the casing is connected to the hole in the first end cap and the interior of the open filter.

32. The filter assembly of claim 17, further comprising: (a) A housing that removably holds the filter cartridge, the housing having a housing thread section; as well as (b) The end device having an end device threaded section, the end device threaded section being positioned to connect with the housing threaded section.

33. The filter assembly of claim 32, wherein: (a) There is a distance D1 between the starting point of the threaded section of the housing and the tip of the protruding device; (b) There is a distance D2 between the starting point of the threaded section of the end device and the tip of the protrusion; as well as (c) Distance D1 is greater than distance D2.

34. A filter cartridge, the filter cartridge comprising: (a) A tubular medium package defining an open medium interior, the tubular medium package having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) A central longitudinal axis, which is centered within the tubular medium package and passes through the first end and the second end; (c) an end device, said end device being fixed to the first end of the tubular medium package; (d) a sealing member, said sealing member being fixed to the axial portion of the end device; and (e) An anti-rotation device for minimizing or preventing wrinkling of the sealing member when the filter cartridge is fixed to one of the filter cover or the filter head.

35. The filter cartridge according to claim 34, wherein, The anti-rotation device is fixed to the end device or is integrated with the end device.

36. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 34 and 35, wherein, The anti-rotation device is positioned on the axial portion of the end device in a manner adjacent to the sealing member.

37. The filter cartridge according to claim 36, wherein, The anti-rotation device includes multiple protrusions located between the sealing member and the outer periphery of the end device.

38. The filter cartridge according to claim 37, wherein, The plurality of protrusions are separated by receiving portions arranged on the outer ring of the sealing member.

39. The filter cartridge according to claim 38, wherein: (a) Each of the protrusions in the outer ring of the protrusion defines a closed area; (b) Each receiving portion in the outer ring of the receiving portion defines an open area; as well as (c) The ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.

0.

40. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 38 and 39, wherein: (a) The end device further includes a series of internally located protrusions spaced apart in the circumferential direction, the protrusions being separated by receiving portions arranged on an inner ring, the inner ring being radially located inside and spaced apart from the outer ring; and (b) The sealing member is located between the outer ring and the inner ring.

41. The filter cartridge according to claim 40, wherein: (a) Each of the protrusions in the inner circle of the protrusion defines a closed area; (b) Each receiving portion in the inner circle of the receiving portion defines an open area; and (c) The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the inner circle is 0.2 to 1.

0.

42. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 40 and 41, wherein: (a) The end device includes a first end cap fixed to a first end of the medium package; (b) The first end cap has a first axial surface oriented away from the medium package and a second axial surface oriented toward the medium package; as well as (c) The outer ring, the inner ring and the sealing member are located on the first axial surface.

43. The filter cartridge according to claim 42, wherein, The first end cap has an opening that communicates with the interior of the open medium.

44. The filter cartridge according to claim 43, wherein, The inner ring is radially spaced from the opening and externally connected to the opening.

45. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 43, wherein, The outer ring is along the outer edge of the first end cap.

46. ​​The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein, The number of protrusions in the outer ring of the spaced-out protrusions is equal to the number of protrusions in the inner ring.

47. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein the number of protrusions in the outer ring of the spaced-apart protrusions is different from the number of protrusions in the inner ring.

48. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 47, wherein, Each of the protrusions in the outer ring has the same geometry as each of the protrusions in the inner ring.

49. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein, Each of the protrusions in the outer ring has a geometry that is different from that of each of the protrusions in the inner ring.

50. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein, Each of the protrusions in the outer ring has a triangular shape.

51. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein, Each of the protrusions in the inner ring has a triangular shape.

52. A method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end device, the filter end device being either a filter head or a filter cover; the filter assembly including a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing; the filter cartridge having a plurality of cartridge protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter end device; The filter end device has a plurality of end device protrusions and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge; the method includes: (a) Positioning the filter cartridge protrusion to be at least partially received within the end device receiving portion, thereby allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end device; (b) After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end device, the threaded portion on the housing engages with the threaded portion on the end device; and (c) Rotate the housing relative to the end device to connect the filter assembly to the filter end device in a screw-on manner.

53. The method according to claim 52, wherein: (a) The filter cartridge includes an axially mounted sealing member adjacent to the filter cartridge protrusion and the receiving portion; as well as (b) The step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end device includes: supporting a sealing member radially between the filter cartridge protrusion and the end device protrusion.

54. A filter cartridge, the filter cartridge comprising: (a) A tubular medium package defining an open medium interior, the tubular medium package having a first end and an opposite second end; (b) A central longitudinal axis, which is centered within the tubular medium package and passes through the first end and the second end; (c) End cap, said end cap being secured to the first end of the tubular medium package; (d) A sealing member, said sealing member being fixed to the axial portion of the end cap; as well as (e) A plurality of first protrusions extending axially from the end cap, the plurality of first protrusions being arranged in a circumferential configuration and positioned near the radial side of the sealing member.

55. The filter cartridge according to claim 54, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions are externally connected to the sealing member.

56. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions are externally connected to the sealing member.

57. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions extend axially beyond the sealing member.

58. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, Each of the plurality of first protrusions has a similar geometry.

59. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions includes one or more protrusions that are different from one or more other protrusions.

60. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions have one of the following shapes: triangular shape; trapezoidal shape; rectangular shape with flat ends, rounded ends or pointed ends; and curved shape.

61. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions have a symmetrical shape.

62. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions have an asymmetrical shape.

63. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions are separated by a plurality of first receiving portions.

64. The filter cartridge according to claim 62, wherein, Each of the plurality of first receiving part gaps has a similar geometry.

65. The filter cartridge according to claim 62 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The plurality of first receiving part gaps includes one or more receiving part gaps that are different from one or more other receiving part gaps.

66. The filter cartridge according to claim 62, wherein, Each of the plurality of first protrusions has a similar geometry, and each of the plurality of first receiving gaps has a similar geometry.

67. The filter cartridge according to claim 54, wherein, The circumferential arrangement structure includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged second protrusions.

68. The filter cartridge according to claim 66, wherein, The plurality of first protrusions are externally connected to the sealing member, and the sealing member is externally connected to the plurality of second protrusions.

69. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or 67, wherein, The peaks of the plurality of first protrusions are radially aligned with the peaks of the plurality of second protrusions.

70. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or 67, wherein, The peaks of the plurality of first protrusions are radially misaligned with the peaks of the plurality of second protrusions.

71. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The protrusions in the plurality of first protrusions have a geometric shape similar to that of the protrusions in the plurality of second protrusions.

72. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or any other preceding claim, wherein, The protrusions in the plurality of first protrusions have a geometry that is not similar to the geometry of the protrusions in the plurality of second protrusions.

73. A method of connecting a filter assembly to a filter end device, said filter end device being either a filter head or a filter cover; the filter assembly comprising a filter cartridge removably mounted in a housing; The filter cartridge has an axially mounted sealing member; The filter end device has a plurality of end device protrusions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge; The method includes: (a) Positioning the filter cartridge such that the sealing member is at least partially received within the end device protrusion, thereby allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end device; (b) After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end device, the threaded portion on the housing engages with the threaded portion on the end device; and (c) Rotate the housing relative to the end device to screw the filter assembly to the filter end device such that the end device protrusion radially supports the side of the sealing member of the filter cartridge.

74. The method according to claim 72, wherein: (a) The end device includes a plurality of end device receiving portions, 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 device receiving portions.

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