Filter assembly and associated filter element

Abstract

A fluid filter assembly having: a filter housing for receiving an exchangeable filter element; the filter element is arranged in the filter shell in an operable mode and is provided with a first end cover connected with the first end part of the fluid filter medium part. The filter housing has a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the first housing part, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the second housing part, and preferably connects the first housing part and the second housing part in a sealing manner, related filter elements and adapters for use with fluid filter assemblies.

Description

Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application is being filed on March 11, 2024 as a PCT International application and claims priority to European Patent Application Serial No. 23170712.6, filed April 28, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to filter assemblies and filter elements. In particular, the present disclosure relates to bowl / cartridge filter assemblies for filtering liquids such as fuel, lubricating fluids such as oil and hydraulic fluids, etc. BACKGROUND

[0003] Filter elements, also known as filter cartridges, are widely used in a variety of filtration applications, the fluid to be filtered can be a liquid or a gas.

[0004] In many instances, it is desirable to filter contaminant substances from a fluid flow. For example, the flow of liquid reaching an engine for a motor vehicle or reaching an engine used in a hydraulic device contains particulate contaminants. It is preferable for these systems to remove the contaminant substances from the fluid or at least partially reduce the contaminant substances, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the device.

[0005] Filter elements comprise a filter media portion for removing contaminant substances when a fluid flows through the filter media portion. Commonly used and available on the market filter media portions are for example pleated media portions or fluted media portions. When the filter media portion is loaded with a certain threshold load of particles, the filter element needs to be replaced. Filter elements are usually installed in a replaceable manner in a housing.

[0006] A particular kind of filter assembly in the field of liquid filtration is the bowl / cartridge filter. Such an assembly comprises a filter bowl comprising a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume portion, a filter element operatively arranged within the filter bowl, a filter head for receiving an incoming fluid flow and directing the incoming fluid flow towards the fluid filter media portion, and for receiving an outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. The filter bowl can be attached to the filter head in a sealed manner, for example by means of a threaded connection and a suitably arranged seal. Bowl / cartridge assemblies exist in a stand-up configuration and in a hanging configuration.

[0007] Many bowl / cartridge type assemblies allow the respective fluid flow even without a filter element installed, thereby increasing the risk of damage to the device.

[0008] Bowl-shaped / cartridge type filters that need to avoid the above problems in the industry. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The purpose of embodiments of this disclosure is to provide a filter assembly that prevents associated devices from operating without the installation of suitable filter elements.

[0010] The invention is defined in the appended independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0011] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a fluid filter assembly is disclosed, comprising: - Filter housing, used to house replaceable filter elements; - A filter element, which is operably arranged within a filter housing and includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium; The filter housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion; and a first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the first housing portion, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the second housing portion and preferably to be sealingly connected to the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0012] Advantageously, the filter assembly is configured such that the filter cup cannot be installed onto the filter head without the correct filter element.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the first type of suspension, the components include: - A filter bowl-shaped member, which corresponds to the first housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume portion; - A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter bowl and includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion; - Filter head, which corresponds to the second housing portion, is used to receive the inflowing fluid flow and guide the inflowing fluid flow toward the fluid filter media portion, and to receive the outflowing fluid flow from the filter element; The first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter cup and preferably to connect the filter cup to the filter head in a sealed manner.

[0014] For the purposes of this disclosure, “releasable attachment” means an attachment that can be released without damaging either of the respective attached components.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cup and the first end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection, the threaded connection including a first thread and a complementary second thread respectively provided on the filter cup and the first end cap.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, a first threaded portion is provided at the main opening, and the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion.

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the first threaded portion at the main opening points outward in the radial direction, and the second threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the first type, the filter head and the filter element are also adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, wherein the filter head includes a first portion of the bayonet connection system and the filter element includes a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

[0019] Preferably, the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet connection when the filter element is rotated into the filter head in the same direction as the direction in which the filter cup is screwed onto the end cap via the threaded connection.

[0020] In some preferred embodiments, the first part of the bayonet connection system includes radially inwardly extending ribs, preferably terminating at the surface of a stop and disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head.

[0021] Preferably, the end cap includes a group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion and alternating with the group of regularly distributed radial cutouts. Preferably, the second part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower edge of the group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap.

[0022] Preferably, the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media section.

[0023] Preferably, the end cap includes a central end cap portion and regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extending radially from the central end cap portion and including interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted second threaded portions.

[0024] In some alternative embodiments, a first portion of the bayonet connection system includes a radially inwardly extending protrusion disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and a second portion of the bayonet connection system includes an opening in the sidewall of a first end cap of the filter element, the opening being adapted and configured to engage with the protrusion.

[0025] Preferably, the first end cap includes a plurality of fluid inlet openings on its axial end face, and the axial projection of the fluid inlet openings is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

[0026] In some alternative embodiments, the first part of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially disposed recess on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, the recess having an opening in the axial direction, and the end cap including a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of second threaded portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions being angularly separated from and alternately disposed with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lips or wings, the bayonet lips or wings being configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially extending recess.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the first type, the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system, wherein the filter head includes a first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system and the filter element includes a second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system.

[0028] Preferably, the first end cap includes a group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of the second threaded portions and alternating with the group of regularly distributed radial cutouts, and the second part of the snap-fit ​​assembly connection system is implemented by the radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap adapted and configured to have a resilient force in the radial direction.

[0029] Preferably, the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media section.

[0030] Preferably, the first end cap includes a central end cap portion, and regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extending radially from the central end cap portion and including corresponding circumferential sidewall portions extending primarily axially, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted complementary threaded portions, the axially extending sidewall portions being resilient when deformed radially outward.

[0031] Preferably, the circumferential sidewall portion, which extends primarily axially, extends slightly inward in the radial direction and is adapted to receive the upper edge of the filter cup during installation. The upper edge of the filter cup is adapted to offset the circumferential sidewall portion, which extends primarily axially, during installation, causing it to move radially outward, for example, to become axially extended. After the cup is attached to the end cap and indirectly to the filter head, the end cap then opens behind the undercut edge of the first portion forming the snap-fit ​​connection, the undercut edge being disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

[0032] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, preferably, the first end cap further includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter media section, and includes a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction disposed around the outlet pipe.

[0033] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, preferably, the filter bowl includes an outer circumferential surface and a radially oriented seal adapted to seal the filter head when the filter bowl is fully connected to the filter head.

[0034] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, preferably, the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is less than the rotational force required to attach the filter cup to the end cap.

[0035] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, preferably, the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter bowl from the end cap.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the second type of vertical type, the components include: - A filter head, which corresponds to the second housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving the filter element and an internal volume portion, as well as a filter head for receiving inflowing fluid flow and guiding the inflowing fluid flow toward the fluid filter media portion and for receiving outflowing fluid flow from the filter element; - A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter head, and the filter element includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium. - A housing cover corresponding to a first housing portion, wherein the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to a filter head and to the housing cover, and preferably adapted to seal the housing cover to the filter head.

[0037] Preferably, the housing cover and end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection, the threaded connection including a first threaded portion and a complementary second threaded portion respectively provided on the housing cover and end cap.

[0038] Preferably, the first threaded portion is provided on the cylindrical protrusion extending from the inner surface of the housing cover, and the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion provided along the interrupted portion of the cylindrical protrusion extending from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium portion.

[0039] Preferably, the first threaded portion points outward in the radial direction, and the second threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

[0040] Preferably, the filter head and filter element are adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, the filter head including a first part of the bayonet connection system and the filter element including a second part of the bayonet connection system, preferably the end cap including the second part of the bayonet connection system.

[0041] Preferably, the end cap includes a group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts.

[0042] Preferably, the second part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower or upper edge of a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap, and the first part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by one or more bayonet features disposed on an inner surface, such as the inner surface of a filter head.

[0043] In a second aspect of this disclosure, a fluid filter element is disclosed, including a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium. The first end cap includes a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, each fan-shaped portion including threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial cut extends from the circular outer periphery of the end cap toward the filter medium portion, and the axial projection of the cut remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium portion.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap includes a central end cap portion and regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions extending radially from the central end cap portion and including interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including threaded portions.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions include a first portion extending radially from the central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion in a direction toward the filter medium portion.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (and for example less than 10 mm).

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the first end cap includes an inner surface, the inner surface including an axially extending annular cavity adapted to receive a first end portion of a fluid filter medium, the annular cavity including an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer rib and the inner rib being concentrically arranged.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second threaded portion, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 mm to 5 mm.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap includes an annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity for receiving the upper edge of a predetermined filter bowl-shaped member. Preferably, the annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity has a shape complementary to the upper edge.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap further includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium section and a radial sealing member surrounding the outlet pipe in the circumferential direction.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, the axial projection of the radial sealing member is located within the axial projection of the central end cap portion.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter element further includes a closed second end cap at the second end of the fluid filter medium section.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid filter media section is a pleated filter media section with a tubular configuration. Alternatively, the fluid filter media section or filter media section may include a wound fabric member or a non-woven material member with a tubular configuration.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, the radially extending fan-shaped portion of the first end cap is adapted and configured to be radially resilient.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extending radially from the central end cap portion and including corresponding circumferential sidewall portions that extend primarily in the axial direction, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted complementary thread portions, the circumferential sidewall portions extending primarily in the axial direction also extending slightly inward in the radial direction as they move toward their respective distal free ends, and the axially extending sidewall portions being resilient when deformed or bent radially outward.

[0058] In a third aspect of this disclosure, a fluid filter element is disclosed, the fluid filter element including a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion; wherein the first end cap includes a side wall extending axially in the circumferential direction, and wherein the side wall includes an opening or recess adapted and configured to engage with a protrusion disposed on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl-shaped member.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, the first end cap includes a threaded portion on the inner surface of the sidewall.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the axial end face of the first end cap further includes a plurality of fluid inlet openings, the axial projection of which is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

[0061] In a fourth aspect of this disclosure, a fluid filter element is disclosed, including a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion; wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of the threaded portions and being angularly separated from and alternately arranged with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lip portions or wing portions, the bayonet lip portions or wing portions being configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially arranged recess of a corresponding filter cup-shaped member.

[0062] A fifth aspect of this disclosure discloses an adapter for a fluid filter assembly, the fluid assembly comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, comprising a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume; and b. Filter head, which receives the inflow of fluid and directs the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter media, and receives the outflow of fluid from the filter element.

[0063] The adapter is suitable for releasably attaching to the filter head, and the adapter is suitable for engaging with the filter cup and connecting the filter cup to the filter head.

[0064] In a sixth aspect of this disclosure, a filter assembly is disclosed, comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, comprising a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume; b. A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter bowl and includes a fluid filter media section; c. Filter head, the filter head is used to receive the inflow of fluid and guide the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter media, and to receive the outflow of fluid from the filter element; d. An adapter according to any of the embodiments of the fifth aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0065] These and other aspects of this disclosure will be illustrated in more detail by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A is a perspective view of a filter assembly according to a first preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 1B is a perspective view of the filter head used in conjunction with Figure 1A.

[0067] Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view of the filter head as shown in Figure 1B.

[0068] Figure 2A This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly in Figure 1A during the assembly step.

[0069] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of the filter components.

[0070] Figure 2C This is an exploded perspective view of the filter bowl and filter elements in Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0071] Figure 3A This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly in Figure 1A during the assembly step.

[0072] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A An exploded perspective view of the filter components.

[0073] Figure 4A This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly in Figure 1A during the assembly step.

[0074] Figure 4B yes Figure 4A A tiered 3D view of the filter components.

[0075] Figure 5A This is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly in Figure 1A during the assembly step.

[0076] Figure 5B yesFigure 5A An exploded perspective view of the filter components.

[0077] Figure 6A and Figure 6B An exploded perspective view of a filter assembly according to a second preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0078] Figure 7 A partial cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to a third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown during an assembly step.

[0079] Figure 8 It is during an assembly step Figure 7 Filter components.

[0080] Figure 9 It is during an assembly step Figure 7 Filter components.

[0081] Figure 10 It is during an assembly step Figure 7 Filter components.

[0082] Figure 11 A partial perspective view of a filter assembly according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0083] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A three-dimensional cross-sectional view of the filter head used in the component.

[0084] Figure 13 A perspective view of a filter assembly according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0085] Figure 14 A schematic cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0086] The figures in the accompanying drawings are neither drawn to scale nor to proportion. Typically, identical parts are indicated in the accompanying drawings by identical reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0087] This disclosure will be described with reference to specific embodiments, which are examples of this disclosure and should not be construed as limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to what has been specifically shown and / or described, and that alternative or modified embodiments can be developed based on the overall teachings of this disclosure. The described drawings are merely illustrative and not limiting.

[0088] The use of the verb "include" and its corresponding conjugated form does not exclude the existence of elements other than those stated. The use of the articles "a," "one," or "the" before an element does not exclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0089] Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe an order in time, space, sequence, or any other way. It should be understood that the terms thus used are interchangeable where appropriate, and the embodiments of this disclosure described herein can operate in orders other than those described or shown herein.

[0090] In this specification, the reference to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in one or more embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing in different places throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but may refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0091] Although some of the accompanying drawings presented and discussed below specifically address embodiments of filter elements for filtering air, this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0092] Figures 1 to 5 illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the filter assembly 100 of this disclosure. Figure 1A on the left shows the assembly 100 in a fully installed and ready-to-operate state. Figures 1B and 1C on the right show details of the filter head 3. In each of Figures 2 to 5, the design on the left ( Figure 2A , Figure 3A , Figure 4A , Figure 5A The right side is a sectional view of a portion of component 100, while the design on the right side ( Figure 2B , Figure 3B , Figure 4B , Figure 5B Figures 2 through 5 are three-dimensional (3D) views of the same component 100 in the same state. Figures 2 through 5 show preferred methods for installing the filter cartridge 2.

[0093] The filter assembly 100 includes: a filter bowl 1; a filter cartridge or filter element 2 disposed in the bowl 1; and a filter head 3, which is fluid-tightly connected to the filter bowl 1. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved through the filter element 2, preferably solely through the filter element. This results in a system in which the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the filter element 2.

[0094] The filter bowl 1 includes a main opening 10 for receiving a filter element or filter cartridge 2 and an internal volume portion 16. The main opening 10 is disposed at a first axial end (or an open axial end) of the filter bowl 1. The bowl 1 includes an upper edge portion 11 that restricts the main opening 10. Optionally, the filter bowl 1 includes a drain valve 13 located at a closed axial end disposed on the opposite side of the filter bowl 1. The filter bowl 1 also includes an outer surface 12 and includes a circumferential seal 121 located on the outer periphery of the bowl 1 or the main opening 10. The circumferential seal 121 is disposed at a suitable position on the outer surface 12 of the bowl 1. The circumferential seal 121 is arranged such that when the bowl 1 is mounted on the filter head 3 via the filter element 2, the circumferential seal 121 forms a seal between the bowl 1 and the filter head.

[0095] The filter head 3 is adapted to receive inflowing fluid flow, for example, via one or more inlets 35. The filter head is adapted to direct the fluid toward the fluid filter media section 22 of the filter element, directing it to the so-called dirty or unfiltered side of the fluid filter media section 22. In operation, the fluid is propelled through the filter media section 22, flowing to the other side of the filter media section 22, the so-called clean or filtered side. The filter head 3 is also adapted to receive fluid flowing out from the clean side of the filter element 2, for example, via an outlet pipe 37, the clean side of the filter element 2 being connected to the outlet pipe 37 in a fluid-impermeable manner. The filter head 3 is also adapted to direct outflowing fluid to one or more outlets 36. The filtered fluid is supplied via the outlets 36 to equipment using the filtered fluid. The filter head 3 does not include a threaded portion or threaded connection device that can be directly coupled to the threaded portion of the bowl-shaped member 1.

[0096] The filter element 2 is operably arranged within the bowl-shaped member 1 and includes a first end cap 20. The first end cap 20 is connected to a first axial end 21 (not depicted in Figures 1 to 5) of the fluid filter medium section 22 in a fluid-impermeable manner. The first end cap 20 is preferably an open end cap. Typically, the filter element 2 also includes a second end cap 20B located at a second axial end 21B, the second end cap 20B being typically closed, and the second axial end 21B of the filter medium section 22 is attached to the second end cap 20B in a fluid-impermeable manner. Preferably, the filter or filter medium section 22 is arranged in a tubular manner, and may be, for example, a pleated medium section arranged in a tubular manner.

[0097] The first end cap 20 is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter cup 1 via a threaded connection, the threaded connection including complementary first and second threaded portions (s1, s2), the first and second threaded portions being respectively disposed on the filter cup 1 and the end cap 20 / filter element 2.

[0098] The first threaded portion s1 is disposed near or abutting the main opening 10 of the cup-shaped member 1, surrounding the main opening 10. The first threaded portion s1 is complete. The first threaded portion s1 is continuous and does not contain any interruptions. The first threaded portion s1 points outward in the radial direction.

[0099] The second threaded portion 2 provided on the first end cap 20 is interrupted and incomplete. The second threaded portion 2 points inward in the radial direction.

[0100] End cap 20 includes a group of regularly angled and angularly separated radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25, each threaded fan-shaped portion 25 including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion s2. The fan-shaped portions 25 are alternately arranged with a group of regularly distributed radially distributed radial cutouts 23. End cap 20 includes a central end cap portion 200, for example, having an annular outer periphery. The regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25 extend radially from the central end cap portion 200, and include an interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251, which includes an interrupted second threaded portion s2. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 connects to the outer end of the radially extending fan-shaped portion 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 is disposed along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter cup 1.

[0101] The filter bowl 1 has a cylindrical inner surface 14, and the radial cutout 23 of the end cap 20 of the filter element 2 extends radially inward beyond the inner surface 14, thereby providing a path P for fluid to enter the bowl 1 and toward the filter medium section 22.

[0102] The first end cap includes an inner surface 201 (the inner surface of the first axial wall). The inner surface 201 may include an axially extending annular cavity 202 adapted to receive a first end 21 of the fluid filter media portion 22. The annular cavity 202 may, for example, include an outer circular rib or wall 2022 and an inner circular rib or wall 2021, which are concentrically arranged and, for example, spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the height of the pleats in the filter media portion 22.

[0103] The radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib 2022 and the second threaded portion s2, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is preferably in the range of 3 mm to 5 mm.

[0104] Preferably, the end cap 20 includes an annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity 203 for receiving the upper edge 11 of a predetermined filter bowl 1. Preferably, the bowl-shaped receiving cavity 203 has a shape complementary to the upper edge 11.

[0105] The first end cap 20 is also adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head 3. In this embodiment, the filter head 3 and the filter element 2 are adapted to be attached via a bayonet-type connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first portion of the bayonet-type connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second portion of the bayonet-type connection system.

[0106] The second part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower edge 2511 of the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portion 25 of the end cap 20 of the filter element, for example by the distal end 2511 of the axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251.

[0107] The first part of the bayonet connection system includes corresponding radially inwardly extending ribs 31, which preferably terminate on corresponding stop surfaces 33. Ribs 31 are disposed on the cylindrical inner surface 30 of the filter head 3. The number of ribs 31 is preferably equal to the number of fan-shaped portions 25. For each rib 31, there is a corresponding fan-shaped portion 25, and the ribs 31 and fan-shaped portions 25 engage in a bayonet-like manner. The ribs 31 are disposed in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter cup 1. Stop surfaces 32 are preferably provided at corresponding ends of the ribs 31 to define the rotational movement of the bayonet. The stop surfaces 32 extend toward the outlet 37 of the filter head 3 in the axial direction of the cup 1 and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ribs 31. Between adjacent ribs 31, an opening is foreseeable that allows the corresponding fan-shaped portion 25 to pass through axially when the end cap 20 (preferably attached to the bowl-shaped member) is initially inserted into the filter head 2 in a translational motion along the axis of the assembly 100, so as to be properly aligned with respect to the ribs 31.

[0108] Preferably, when the filter element 2 is rotated into the filter head 3 in the same direction as the direction in which the filter cup 1 is screwed onto the end cap 20 via the threaded connection, the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet connection.

[0109] Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C The components of component 100 in a disassembled state are shown.

[0110] Figure 3A , Figure 3B , Figure 4A , Figure 4B , Figure 5A , Figure 5B A preferred method for mounting the filter element 2 in assembly 100 is shown. In a first step, the filter 2 and filter end cap 20 are screwed onto the cup-shaped member 1 by the interaction of threads s2 and s1. In a preferred embodiment, the threaded connection is not completed at this initial stage. For example, one thread is not engaged. Alternatively, the threaded connection may be final at this stage.

[0111] Then, the filter element 2 is pushed upward into the filter head 3, and the fan-shaped portion 25 of the filter element end cap 20 is appropriately misaligned with the rib 31 (the axial projections of the fan-shaped portion 25 and the rib 31 do not overlap), so that the fan-shaped portion 25 can pass between the corresponding ribs 31 by axial translational movement, thereby achieving an axial distance, such that the lower edge 2511 of the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions 25 is positioned axially above the ribs 31. At this time, the outlet pipe 29 provided in the center of the end cap 20 abuts against the outlet pipe 37 of the filter head for sealing. For example, the outlet pipe 29 enters the outlet pipe 37 and is sealed by the sealing member 291 surrounding the outlet pipe 29, which abuts against the outlet pipe 37 radially outward.

[0112] Then, the filter element 2 can rotate relative to the filter head 2 about its longitudinal axis, such that the sector 25 (lower edge 2511 of the sector 25) engages with the upper surface of the rib 31, thereby forming a bayonet connection or attachment. The rotational movement is preferably limited by the stop surface 32 in a predetermined manner.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the bayonet connection is adapted to cause compression of the seal 121 between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the seal 121 between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 has not been compressed or has not been sufficiently compressed. Figure 4A , Figure 4B Then, the assembly can be predetermined, allowing the filter cup 1 to be further tightened on the end cap 20 of the filter element 2, thereby completing the threaded connection and compressing the seal 121. Figure 5A , Figure 5B ).

[0115] To replace the filter element, the filter element 2 is rotated in the opposite direction relative to the filter head 2 about the longitudinal axis of the filter element 2 to release the bayonet connection. Rotation in the opposite direction causes the fan-shaped portion 25 of the filter element end cap 20 to be properly misaligned with the rib 31 again (the axial projections of the fan-shaped portion 25 and the rib 31 do not overlap), allowing the fan-shaped portion 25 to pass between the corresponding ribs 31 by translational movement in the axial direction.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter cup-shaped part from the end cap. In practice, the filter 2 is removed / replaced by manipulating / rotating the cup-shaped part 1 attached to the filter 2. In such an embodiment, it is possible to prevent the filter cup-shaped part 1 from disengaging from the filter element 2 when subjected to a force below the threshold force for releasing the bayonet connection, i.e., the threaded connection is released below the threshold force for releasing the bayonet connection. While it is not excluded to remove the filter cup-shaped part 1 from the filter element 2 first, this is less preferred for liquid filters because the filter element contains liquid and is therefore dirty and difficult to handle.

[0117] Optionally, the end cap 20 may also be provided with a locking feature 204. Preferably, the locking feature 204 is located on the outer periphery of the end cap 20, and the locking feature 204 is adapted to engage with the locking groove 15 provided in the upper edge portion 11 of the bowl-shaped member 1. Figure 2C The interaction allows relative rotation between the bowl-shaped member 1 and the filter element 2 only in one direction of rotation corresponding to the direction of rotation in which the bowl-shaped member 1 is tightened. Rotation of the bowl-shaped member 1 relative to the filter element 2 in the opposite direction (during unscrewing of the bowl-shaped member 1) is blocked directly by the locking groove 15, or after the initial angular range of relative rotation. This mechanism ensures that when the bowl-shaped member 1 is rotated to disengage the bayonet connection between the end cap 20 and the head 3, the filter element 2 remains attached to the bowl-shaped member 1, but not to the filter head 3. If the element remains attached to the head, the intended release of the bayonet connection is jeopardized. To remove the filter element 2 from the bowl-shaped member 1 in a later step, the locking feature 204 can be lifted or otherwise removed from the groove, for example, by manual interaction. Preferably, the locking feature 204 is spring-loaded or can be bent.

[0118] Figure 6A , Figure 6B A second preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. This second embodiment discloses the use of an adapter 4, which is detachable from or separate from the first end cap 20 of the filter element 2, and can be used to assemble a standard filter element in a filter housing / assembly as described with respect to the first preferred embodiment and the first aspect of the invention.

[0119] The filter assembly 100 includes a filter bowl 1, a filter cartridge or filter element 2 disposed within the bowl 1, an adapter 4, and a filter head 3 connected to the filter bowl 1 in a fluid-impermeable manner. The adapter 4 is included within an internal volume defined by the filter head 3 and the filter bowl 1. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved through the adapter, preferably solely through the adapter. This creates a system in which the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the adapter 4. The adapter 4 is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head 3, and adapted to be coupled to the filter bowl 1, and adapted to connect the filter bowl 1 to the filter head 3 in a fluid-impermeable manner. The adapter may or may not interact with the filter element 2. Preferably, the adapter 4 may include a central portion 200 (instead of a central end cap portion 200) comprising an (open) annular structure with a central opening that allows the outlet pipe 29 of the separate filter element 2 to pass through for connection to the outlet pipe 37 of the filter head 3. For assembling the corresponding filter assembly 100, the features of the adapter 4 may also be identical to the features of the end cap 20 described for any other embodiment without the adapter 4, and thus combinations of these features are considered to be disclosed.

[0120] For example, the adapter 4 may include groups of regularly angled and angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25, each threaded fan-shaped portion 25 including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion s2. The fan-shaped portions 25 are alternately arranged with groups of regularly distributed radial cutouts 23. The adapter 4 includes a central adapter portion, such as an (open) annular structure 200. Regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25 extend radially from the central adapter portion 200, and include interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251, each circumferential sidewall portion 251 including an interrupted second threaded portion s2. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are connected to the outer ends of the radially extending fan-shaped portions 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are disposed along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter cup 1.

[0121] Optionally, the adapter 4 may also be provided with a locking feature 204. Preferably, the locking feature 204 is located on the outer periphery of the adapter 4. The locking feature 204 is adapted to interact with a locking groove 15 provided in the upper edge 11 of the bowl-shaped member 1, thereby allowing relative rotation between the bowl-shaped member 1 and the adapter 4 only in one rotational direction corresponding to the rotational direction of tightening the bowl-shaped member 1. Rotation of the bowl-shaped member 1 relative to the adapter 4 in a relatively opposite direction (during unscrewing the bowl-shaped member 1) is directly blocked by the locking groove 15, or blocked after the initial angular range of relative rotation. This mechanism ensures that when the bowl-shaped member 1 is rotated to separate the snap-fit ​​connection between the adapter 4 and the head 3, the adapter 4 remains attached to the bowl-shaped member 1, but not to the filter head 3. To remove the adapter 4 from the bowl-shaped member 1 in a later step, the locking feature 204 can be lifted or otherwise removed from the groove, for example, by manual interaction. Preferably, the locking feature 204 is spring-loaded or can be bent.

[0122] Figures 7 to 10 A third preferred embodiment of this disclosure is shown, which is very similar to the first preferred embodiment described with respect to Figures 1 to 5, but the filter head 3 and filter element 2 are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system. The outlet pipe 37 of the filter head 3 is depicted only schematically and is assumed to be open.

[0123] In a first preferred embodiment, the end cap 20 includes a centrally located outlet pipe 29 and a radially outwardly pointing seal 291 surrounding the outlet pipe 29. The end cap 20 includes groups of regularly angled, radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25 extending radially from the central end cap portion 200, each threaded fan-shaped portion 25 including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion s2, and the threaded fan-shaped portions 25 are alternately arranged with groups of regularly distributed radial cutouts 23. A second part of the snap-fit ​​assembly connection system is implemented by the radially extending fan-shaped portions 25 of the end cap 20, which are adapted and configured to be at least partially radially resilient. Preferably, the radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions include corresponding circumferentially extending sidewall portions 251, primarily axially, including interrupted second threaded portions s2, and the circumferentially extending sidewall portions 251 are resilient when deformed radially outward.

[0124] The filter bowl 1 has a cylindrical inner surface 14 and includes a radial cutout 23 in the end cap 20 that extends radially inward beyond the inner surface 14, thereby providing an entry path P for fluid entering the bowl 1 and toward the filter media section 22.

[0125] Preferably, the circumferential sidewall portion 251, which extends primarily axially, extends slightly inward in the radial direction and is adapted to receive the upper edge 11 of the filter bowl 1 during installation. The upper edge 11 of the filter bowl 1 is adapted to offset the circumferential sidewall portion 251, which extends primarily axially, outward, and, for example, become axially extended during installation. After the bowl 1 is attached to the end cap 2 and indirectly to the filter head 3, the end cap 20 opens behind the undercut edge 34 that forms the first part of the snap-fit ​​connection. The undercut edge 34 is provided on the inner surface 30 of the filter head 3.

[0126] In the third preferred embodiment, the filter element 2 is initially connected to the filter head 3 via the snap-fit ​​assembly connection method described above. Figure 7 The circumferential sidewall portion 251, which extends primarily in the circumferential direction, is curved and initially snaps onto one or more undercut edges 34. Then, the filter cup 1 is screwed onto the filter 2 / end cap 20 via a threaded connection to attach the cup 1 and the filter element 2, thereby also ultimately attaching the filter element 2 to the filter head 3 and providing a fluid-impermeable attachment between the filter cup 1 and the filter head 3. Figure 8 ).

[0127] The removal of filter element 2 or the filter element-bowl composite system from filter head 3 occurs in a manner similar to that described for the bayonet separation with respect to the first preferred embodiment. Therefore, the undercut edge 34 corresponds to the rib 31. The undercut edge 34 may also include one of a plurality of inclined / chamfered surfaces 38 to guide the resilient, axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 to an angled position, preferably when exposed to rotational forces, in which the filter element 2 or the filter element-bowl composite system can be removed by axial tension without being obstructed by the undercut edge 34. Figure 9 , Figure 10 ).

[0128] Figure 11 and Figure 12A filter assembly 100 according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, with some features illustrated only schematically. This embodiment is also based on a bayonet connection between the filter element 2 and the filter head 3, but the bayonet-connected end cap feature is separate from the radially extending sector 25. The end cap 20 includes a central outlet pipe 29 having a seal 291 pointing radially outward. The end cap 20 includes a central end cap portion 200. A group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sector portions 25 are provided from the central end cap portion 200. Each sector 25 includes a corresponding portion of a threaded portion s2. The regularly distributed radially extending threaded sector portions 25 extend radially from the central adapter portion 200, and include an interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251, which includes an interrupted second threaded portion s2. The second threaded portion s2 points radially inward. An axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 is connected to the outer end of a corresponding radially extending fan-shaped portion 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 is disposed along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter bowl 1.

[0129] Regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25 are separated from and alternately arranged with groups of regularly angled, radially extending bayonet lip-shaped portions or wing-shaped portions 28. The regularly angled, radially extending bayonet lip-shaped portions or wing-shaped portions 28 also extend radially from the central end cap portion 200.

[0130] The lip or wing portion 28 is configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially arranged recess 33 of the corresponding filter head 3. For example, the recess may be provided on the inner surface 30 of the filter cup 1, and the recess may be oriented such that the opening of the recess faces the upper end of the filter head 3. One or more recesses 33 may include one or more inclined / chamfered surfaces 38 to guide the lip portion 28, preferably guiding the lip portion 28 to an angled position when exposed to rotational forces, in which the filter element 2 or filter element-cup composite system can be removed from the head 3 by axial tensile force without being obstructed by the recess 33.

[0131] Figure 13A filter assembly 100 according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, which is also based on a bayonet connection between the filter element 2 and the filter head 3. The end cap 20 includes a central outlet pipe 29 having a seal 291 pointing radially outward. Here, a first portion of the bayonet connection system includes a radially inwardly extending protrusion provided on the cylindrical inner surface 30 of the filter head 3 (not depicted). A second portion of the bayonet connection system includes an opening or recess 261 in the sidewall 26 of the first end cap 20 of the filter element 2, which is adapted and configured to engage with these protrusions of the filter head 3. The inner surface of the sidewall 26 includes interrupted threads s2 for threaded connection with a corresponding first thread 1 of the filter cup 1.

[0132] The end cap 20 also includes a plurality of fluid inlet openings 271 located on the axial end face 27 of the first end cap 2, the axial projection of the fluid inlet openings 271 being outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium section 22.

[0133] Also here, the filter assembly 100 includes a filter bowl 1, a filter element 2 disposed in the bowl 1, and a filter head 3 (not depicted) connected to the filter bowl 1 in a fluid-impermeable manner. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved through the filter element 2, preferably solely through the filter element. This results in a system in which the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the filter element 2.

[0134] Figure 14 A filter assembly according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. While the preceding preferred embodiments are suspended, the sixth preferred embodiment is a vertical bowl-shaped / filter cartridge assembly.

[0135] The fluid filter assembly 100 includes a filter head 3 having an internal volume 300 for receiving a filter element 2 and a main opening 301. The filter head 3 is adapted to receive fluid flowing in from an inlet 35 and direct the inflowing fluid toward a fluid filter media section 22, receive fluid flowing out from the filter element 2, and direct the outflowing fluid to an outlet 36. The assembly includes a housing cover 1B complementary to the filter head 3.

[0136] The filter element 2 is operably disposed within the filter head 3 and includes a first end cap 20 connected to a first end 21 of the fluid filter media portion 22. The first end cap 20 is preferably a closed end cap. Alternatively, the first end cap 20 may be an open end cap, comprising one or more openings or (radially inward) cuts in a region of the end cap located radially outside the region defined by the axial projection of the filter media portion 22 onto the end cap 20. In the latter case, the end cap 20 may also include, for example, a central opening (and may include a bypass valve) in a region of the end cap 20 for receiving a bypass valve, located radially within the projection of the axial projection of the filter media portion 22 onto the end cap 20. An open second end cap 20B is provided at the second end 21B of the filter media portion 22, the second end cap 20B having, for example, a seal 291B for sealing the outlet 36.

[0137] The assembly includes a housing cover 1B. A first end cap 20 is adapted to be releasably attached to a filter head 3, and is adapted to be releasably attached to the housing cover 1B, and is adapted to preferably seal the housing cover 1B and the filter head 3.

[0138] The housing cover 1B and the end cap 20 are adapted to be releasably attached via a threaded connection, which includes a first thread and complementary second threads (s1, s2) respectively provided on the housing cover 1B and the end cap 20. A filter cover seal 1Bs is provided between the housing cover 1B and the filter head 3.

[0139] A first threaded portion s1 is provided on a cylindrical protrusion extending from the inner surface of the housing cover 1B. The first end cap 20 includes a second threaded portion s2 that is interrupted along the interrupted portion of the cylindrical protrusion, which extends from the end cap 20 in a direction away from the filter medium portion 22.

[0140] The first threaded portion s1 points outward in the radial direction, and the complementary second threaded portion s2 points inward in the radial direction.

[0141] The filter head 3 and the filter element 2 are adapted to be attached via a bayonet-type connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first part of the bayonet-type connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second part of the bayonet-type connection system.

[0142] Similar to the previous embodiments, the end cap 20 may include a group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions 25, each threaded fan-shaped portion 25 including a corresponding portion of the second threaded portion s2, the threaded fan-shaped portions 25 and the group of regularly distributed radial cutouts 23 (in) Figure 14(Not visible in the middle) Alternating arrangement. The sector portion 25 can interact with the bayonet feature 39 schematically depicted, which is suitably disposed on the inner wall 302 of the filter head 3.

[0143] The second part of the bayonet connection system includes the lower or upper edge of a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions 25 of the end cap 1.

[0144] It should be noted that not all of the specific features described herein need to be incorporated into an arrangement to give that arrangement certain selected advantages according to this disclosure.

[0145] For example, the following aspects can be protected.

[0146] 1. A fluid filter assembly, comprising: - Filter housing, used to house replaceable filter elements; - A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter housing, and the filter element includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium. The filter housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion; and wherein a first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the first housing portion, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the second housing portion and to connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion, preferably to connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion in a sealed manner.

[0147] 2. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 1, the fluid filter assembly comprising: - A filter bowl-shaped member, which corresponds to the first housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume portion; - A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter bowl and includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion; - Filter head, which corresponds to the second housing portion, is used to receive the inflowing fluid flow and guide the inflowing fluid flow toward the fluid filter media portion, and to receive the outflowing fluid flow from the filter element; The first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter cup and to connect the filter cup to the filter head, preferably to connect the filter cup to the filter head in a sealed manner.

[0148] 3. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 2, wherein the filter cup and end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection, the threaded connection comprising a first thread and a complementary second thread respectively disposed on the filter cup and end cap.

[0149] 4. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 3, wherein a first threaded portion is provided at the main opening, and wherein the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion.

[0150] 5. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 3 or 4, wherein the first threaded portion at the main opening is radially outward and the second threaded portion is radially inward.

[0151] 6. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 5 above, wherein the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, the filter head including a first portion of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element including a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

[0152] 7. The fluid filter assembly according to aspects 6 and 3, wherein the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet connection when the filter element is rotated into the filter head in the same direction as the direction in which the filter cup is screwed onto the end cap via the threaded connection.

[0153] 8. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 6 or 7, wherein the first part of the bayonet connection system includes radially inwardly extending ribs, preferably terminating at the surface of a stop and disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head.

[0154] 9. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 6 to 8, wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of second threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts, and wherein a second portion of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower edge of the group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap.

[0155] 10. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 9, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and wherein a radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media portion.

[0156] 11. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 9 to 10, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted second threaded portions.

[0157] 12. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 6 to 7, wherein a first portion of the bayonet connection system includes a radially inwardly extending protrusion disposed on a cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and wherein a second portion of the bayonet connection system includes an opening in a sidewall of a first end cap of the filter element, the opening being adapted and configured to engage with the protrusion.

[0158] 13. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 12, further comprising a fluid inlet opening on the axial end face of the first end cap, the axial projection of the fluid inlet opening being outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

[0159] 14. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 6 or 7, wherein the first part of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially disposed recess on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, the recess having an opening in the axial direction, and wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of second threaded portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions being angularly separated from and alternately disposed with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lips or wings, the bayonet lips or wings being configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially extending recess.

[0160] 15. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 5 above, wherein the filter head and filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system, the filter head including a first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system, and the filter element including a second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system.

[0161] 16. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 15, wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of second threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts, and wherein a second part of the snap-fit ​​connection system is implemented by radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap adapted and configured to have a resilient force in the radial direction.

[0162] 17. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 16, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and wherein a radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media portion.

[0163] 18. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 15 to 17, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include corresponding circumferentially extending sidewall portions that include interrupted complementary threads, and the axially extending sidewall portions are resilient when deformed radially outward.

[0164] 19. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 18, wherein a circumferential sidewall portion extending primarily axially extends slightly inwardly in the radial direction and is adapted to receive an upper edge of a filter bowl during installation, wherein the upper edge of the filter bowl is adapted to bias the circumferential sidewall portion extending primarily axially into extending axially during installation, and wherein, after the bowl is attached to an end cap and indirectly to a filter head, the end cap opens behind a truncated edge portion forming a first portion of a snap-fit ​​connection, the truncated edge portion being disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

[0165] 20. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 19 above, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with an internal volume portion of the filter media portion and a radial sealing member disposed around the outlet pipe in the circumferential direction.

[0166] 21. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 20 above, wherein the filter cup includes an outer circumferential surface and a radially oriented seal adapted to seal the filter head when the filter cup is fully connected to the filter head.

[0167] 22. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 21 above, wherein the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is less than the rotational force required to connect the filter cup to the end cap.

[0168] 23. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 2 to 22 above, wherein the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter cup from the end cap.

[0169] 24. The fluid filter assembly according to any of the foregoing aspects, wherein the fluid filter assembly is a suspended fluid filter assembly.

[0170] 25. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 1, the fluid filter assembly comprising: - A filter head, which corresponds to the second housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving the filter element and an internal volume portion, as well as a filter head for receiving an inflowing fluid flow and guiding the inflowing fluid flow toward the fluid filter medium portion and for receiving an outflowing fluid flow from the filter element; - A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter head, and the filter element includes a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium. - A housing cover corresponding to a first housing portion, wherein the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to a filter head and to the housing cover, and is adapted to connect the housing cover to the filter head, preferably to the filter head in a sealed manner.

[0171] 26. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 25, wherein the housing cover and the end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection including a first threaded portion and a complementary second threaded portion respectively disposed on the housing cover and the end cap.

[0172] 27. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 26, wherein the first threaded portion is provided on a cylindrical protrusion extending from the inner surface of the housing cover, and wherein the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion provided along an interrupted portion of the cylindrical protrusion extending from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium portion.

[0173] 28. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 26 or 27, wherein the first threaded portion points radially outward and the second threaded portion points radially inward.

[0174] 29. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 25 to 28 above, wherein the filter head and filter element are adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, the filter head including a first portion of the bayonet connection system and the filter element including a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

[0175] 30. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 25 to 29, wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded sectors, the threaded sectors including corresponding portions of second threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts.

[0176] 31. The fluid filter assembly according to aspect 30, wherein the second part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower or upper edge of a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap, and wherein the first part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by one or more bayonet features disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

[0177] 32. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of aspects 25 to 31, wherein the fluid filter assembly is a vertical fluid filter assembly.

[0178] 33. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion, wherein the first end cap comprises a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, the fan-shaped portions including threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts.

[0179] 34. The fluid filter element according to aspect 33, wherein the threaded portion is radially inward.

[0180] 35. The fluid filter element according to aspect 33 or 34, wherein the radial cut extends from the circular outer periphery of the end cap toward the filter medium portion, and wherein the axial projection of the cut remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium portion.

[0181] 36. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 35 above, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and wherein regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including threaded portions.

[0182] 37. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 36 above, wherein the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions include a first portion extending radially from a central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion in a direction toward the filter medium portion.

[0183] 38. The fluid filter element according to aspect 37, wherein the radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (and less than 10 mm).

[0184] 39. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 38 above, wherein the first end cap includes an inner surface, the inner surface including an axially extending annular cavity adapted to receive a first end portion of a fluid filter medium, the annular cavity including an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer rib and the inner rib being concentrically arranged.

[0185] 40. The fluid filter element according to aspect 39, wherein the radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second threaded portion, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 mm to 5 mm.

[0186] 41. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 40 above, wherein the end cap includes an annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity for receiving the upper edge of a predetermined filter bowl-shaped member, preferably, the annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity having a shape complementary to the upper edge.

[0187] 42. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 41 above, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium portion and a radial sealing member surrounding the outlet pipe in the circumferential direction.

[0188] 43. The fluid filter element according to aspect 42, wherein the axial projection of the radial sealing member lies within the axial projection of the central end cap portion.

[0189] 44. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 43 above, wherein the filter element further includes a closed second end cap at the second end of the fluid filter medium portion.

[0190] 45. The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 44 above, wherein the fluid filter media section is a pleated filter media section provided in a tubular configuration.

[0191] 46. ​​The fluid filter element according to any one of aspects 33 to 45 above, wherein the radially extending sector of the first end cap is adapted and configured to be radially resilient.

[0192] 47. The fluid filter element according to aspect 46, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include corresponding circumferentially extending sidewall portions that primarily extend axially, the circumferentially extending sidewall portions including interrupted complementary thread portions, wherein the axially extending sidewall portions extend slightly inwardly in the radial direction as they move toward their respective distal free ends, and the axially extending sidewall portions are resilient when deformed or bent radially outward.

[0193] 48. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion, wherein the first end cap includes an axially extending sidewall in the circumferential direction, and wherein the sidewall includes an opening or recess adapted and configured to engage with a protrusion disposed on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl.

[0194] 49. The fluid filter element according to aspect 48, the fluid filter element including a threaded portion located on the inner surface of the sidewall.

[0195] 50. The fluid filter element according to aspect 48 or 49, wherein the axial end face of the first end cap further includes a plurality of fluid inlet openings, the axial projection of which is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

[0196] 51. The filter element according to aspect 33 or 34, wherein the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion disposed along an interrupted portion of a cylindrical protrusion extending from the end cap toward the direction away from the filter medium portion.

[0197] 52. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium portion; wherein the end cap comprises a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of the threaded portions and being angularly separated from and alternately arranged with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lip portions or wing portions, the bayonet lip portions or wing portions being configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially arranged recess of a corresponding filter cup member.

[0198] 53. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, the fluid assembly comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, comprising a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume; and b. Filter head, which is used to receive the inflow of fluid and guide the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter media, and to receive the outflow of fluid from the filter element; The adapter is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head, and the adapter is adapted to be connected to the filter cup and to connect the filter cup to the filter head.

[0199] 54. A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, comprising a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume; b. A filter element, which is operably disposed within a filter bowl and includes a fluid filter media section; c. Filter head, the filter head is used to receive the inflow of fluid and guide the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter media, and to receive the outflow of fluid from the filter element; d. The adapter as described in aspect 53.

[0200] Reference Signs

Claims

1. A fluid filter assembly, the fluid filter assembly comprising: - A filter housing for receiving replaceable filter elements; - A filter element, the filter element being operably disposed within the filter housing, and the filter element including a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium; The filter housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion; and The first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the first housing portion, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the second housing portion and to sealably connect the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

2. The fluid filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid filter assembly comprises: - A filter bowl-shaped component, which corresponds to the first housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving the filter element and an internal volume portion; - The filter element is operably disposed within the filter bowl and includes a first end cap connected to a first end of the fluid filter medium portion; - A filter head, corresponding to the second housing portion, for receiving an inflowing fluid flow and guiding the inflowing fluid flow toward the fluid filter medium portion, and for receiving an outflowing fluid flow from the filter element; The first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head, and the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter cup and to seal the filter cup to the filter head.

3. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 2, wherein, The filter bowl and the end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection, the threaded connection including a first thread and a complementary second thread respectively provided on the filter bowl and the end cap.

4. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The first threaded portion is disposed at the main opening, and wherein the first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion.

5. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein, The first threaded portion at the main opening points outward in the radial direction, and the second threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

6. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, the filter head including a first portion of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element including a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

7. The fluid filter assembly according to claims 6 and 3, wherein, When the filter element is rotated into the filter head in the same direction as the direction in which the filter cup is screwed onto the end cap via the threaded connection, the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet connection.

8. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein, The first part of the bayonet connection system includes radially inwardly extending ribs that terminate at the surface of a stop and are disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head.

9. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of a second threaded portion and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts, wherein the second portion of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower edge of the group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap.

10. The fluid filter assembly of claim 9, wherein, The filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and wherein the radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media portion.

11. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein, The end cap includes a central end cap portion, wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted second threaded portions.

12. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein, The first part of the bayonet connection system includes a radially inwardly extending protrusion disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and wherein the second part of the bayonet connection system includes an opening in the sidewall of the first end cap of the filter element, the opening being adapted and configured for engagement with the protrusion.

13. The fluid filter assembly of claim 12, further comprising a plurality of fluid inlet openings on the axial end face of the first end cap, the axial projection of the fluid inlet openings being located outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

14. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 6 or 7, wherein, The first part of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially arranged recess on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, the recess having an opening along the axial direction, and wherein the end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, the threaded fan-shaped portions including corresponding portions of the second threaded portion, the threaded fan-shaped portions being angularly separated from and alternately arranged with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lips or wings, the bayonet lips or wings being configured and adapted to be received in the at least one circumferentially extending recess.

15. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​assembly connection system, the filter head including a first part of the snap-fit ​​assembly connection system, and the filter element including a second part of the snap-fit ​​assembly connection system.

16. The fluid filter assembly of claim 15, wherein, The end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of the second threaded portion and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts, wherein a second part of the snap-fit ​​connection system is implemented by the radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap adapted and configured to have a resilient force in the radial direction.

17. The fluid filter assembly of claim 16, wherein, The filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and wherein the radial cut extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an entry path for fluid entering the bowl and toward the filter media section.

18. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, The end cap includes a central end cap portion, wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include corresponding circumferential sidewall portions extending primarily axially, the circumferential sidewall portions including interrupted complementary threaded portions, the axially extending sidewall portions being resilient when deformed radially outward.

19. The fluid filter assembly of claim 18, wherein, The circumferential sidewall portion, which extends primarily axially, extends slightly inward in the radial direction and is adapted to receive the upper edge of the filter cup during installation, wherein the upper edge of the filter cup is adapted to offset the circumferential sidewall portion, which extends primarily axially, during installation, so as to extend axially, and wherein, after the cup is attached to the end cap and indirectly to the filter head, the end cap opens behind the undercut edge of the first portion forming the snap-fit ​​connection, the undercut edge being disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

20. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 19, wherein, The end cap also includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter media section and a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction surrounding the outlet pipe.

21. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 20, wherein, The filter bowl includes an outer circumferential surface and a radially oriented seal adapted to seal the filter head when the filter bowl is fully connected to the filter head.

22. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 21, wherein the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is less than the rotational force required to connect the filter cup to the end cap.

23. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the fluid filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter cup from the end cap.

24. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid filter assembly is a suspended fluid filter assembly.

25. The fluid filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the fluid filter assembly comprises: - A filter head, which corresponds to the second housing portion and includes a main opening for receiving the filter element and an internal volume portion, and the filter head is used to receive an inflow of fluid and guide the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter medium portion and to receive an outflow of fluid from the filter element; - A filter element, the filter element being operably disposed within the filter head, and the filter element including a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium; - A housing cover corresponding to the first housing portion, wherein the first end cap is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head and to the housing cover, and is adapted to seal the housing cover to the filter head.

26. The fluid filter assembly of claim 25, wherein, The housing cover and the end cap are adapted to be releasably attached by a threaded connection, the threaded connection including a first threaded portion and a complementary second threaded portion respectively provided on the housing cover and the end cap.

27. The fluid filter assembly of claim 26, wherein, The first threaded portion is provided on a cylindrical protrusion extending from the inner surface of the housing cover, and wherein the first end cap includes a second threaded portion provided along an interrupted portion of the cylindrical protrusion extending from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium portion.

28. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claim 26 or 27, wherein, The first threaded portion points outward in the radial direction, and the second threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

29. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein, The filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a bayonet connection system, the filter head including a first portion of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element including a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

30. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein, The end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of the second threaded portion and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cutouts.

31. The fluid filter assembly of claim 30, wherein, The second part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by the lower or upper edge of a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions of the end cap, and wherein the first part of the bayonet connection system is implemented by one or more bayonet features disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

32. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the fluid filter assembly is a vertical fluid filter assembly.

33. A fluid filter element, the fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium, wherein, The first end cap includes a group of regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, each fan-shaped portion including threaded portions and alternating with a group of regularly distributed radial cuts.

34. The fluid filter element according to claim 33, wherein, The threaded portion points inward in the radial direction.

35. The fluid filter element according to any one of claim 33 or 34, wherein, The radial cut extends from the circular outer periphery of the end cap toward the filter medium portion, and wherein the axial projection of the cut remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium portion.

36. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein, The end cap includes a central end cap portion, and therein, regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include interrupted axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, the circumferential sidewall portions including threaded portions.

37. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein, The regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions include a first portion extending radially from the central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion in a direction toward the filter media portion.

38. The fluid filter element according to claim 37, wherein, The radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of the regularly distributed radially extending fan-shaped portions, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (and less than 10 mm).

39. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein, The first end cap includes an inner surface, the inner surface including an axially extending annular cavity adapted to receive a first end portion of the fluid filter medium portion, the annular cavity including an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer rib and the inner rib being concentrically arranged.

40. The fluid filter element according to claim 39, wherein, The radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second threaded portion, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 mm to 5 mm.

41. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 40, wherein, The end cap includes an annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity for receiving the upper edge of a predetermined filter bowl-shaped member, the annular bowl-shaped receiving cavity having a shape complementary to the upper edge of the filter bowl-shaped member.

42. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 41, wherein, The end cap also includes an outlet pipe in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium section and a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction surrounding the outlet pipe.

43. The fluid filter element according to claim 42, wherein, The axial projection of the radial sealing member is located within the axial projection of the central end cap portion.

44. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein, The filter element also includes a closed second end cap at the second end of the fluid filter medium section.

45. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 44, wherein, The fluid filter media section is a pleated filter media section with a tubular configuration.

46. ​​The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein, The radially extending fan-shaped portion of the first end cap is adapted and configured to be radially resilient.

47. The fluid filter element according to claim 46, wherein, The end cap includes a central end cap portion, and wherein regularly distributed radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions extend radially from the central end cap portion and include corresponding circumferentially extending sidewall portions that include interrupted complementary threads, wherein the circumferentially extending sidewall portions extend slightly inward in the radial direction as they move toward their respective distal free ends, and the axially extending sidewall portions are resilient when deformed or bent radially outward.

48. A fluid filter element, the fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium, wherein, The first end cap includes an axially extending sidewall in the circumferential direction, wherein the sidewall includes an opening or recess adapted and configured for engagement with a protrusion disposed on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl.

49. The fluid filter element of claim 48, wherein the fluid filter element includes a threaded portion located on the inner surface of the sidewall.

50. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 48 or 49, wherein, The axial end face of the first end cap also includes a plurality of fluid inlet openings, the axial projection of which is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filter medium portion.

51. The filter element according to any one of claim 33 or 34, wherein, The first end cap includes an interrupted second threaded portion, which is disposed along the interrupted portion of a cylindrical protrusion extending from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium portion.

52. A fluid filter element, the fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end portion of a fluid filter medium; wherein, The end cap includes a group of regularly angled radially extending threaded fan-shaped portions, each threaded fan-shaped portion including a corresponding portion of the threaded portion and angularly separated from and alternately arranged with a group of regularly angled, primarily radially extending bayonet lips or wing-shaped portions, the bayonet lips or wing-shaped portions being configured and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially arranged recess of a corresponding filter cup-shaped member.

53. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, the fluid assembly comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, the filter bowl-shaped member including a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume portion; as well as b. A filter head for receiving an inflow of fluid and directing the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter medium, and for receiving an outflow of fluid from the filter element; The adapter is adapted to be releasably attached to the filter head, and the adapter is adapted to engage with the filter cup and connect the filter cup to the filter head.

54. A filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising: a. A filter bowl-shaped member, the filter bowl-shaped member including a main opening for receiving a filter element and an internal volume portion; b. A filter element operably disposed within the filter bowl and including a fluid filter medium portion; c. A filter head for receiving an inflow of fluid and directing the inflow of fluid toward the fluid filter medium, and for receiving an outflow of fluid from the filter element. d. The adapter according to claim 53.

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