Filter assembly with reuleaux sealing interface

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter assembly with a Reuleaux sealing interface. The filter assembly includes a filter housing and a filter element. The filter housing includes an engagement member. The filter element includes a media pack and a sealing member. The media pack includes a filter media configured to filter a fluid passing through the filter media. A sealing member is coupled to the media pack and engageable with the engagement member. The sealing member is formed in a Reuleaux shape.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation of application No. 202180038801.5, filed on July 22, 2021, having the title “Filter Assembly with Reuleaux Sealing Interface”.

[0002] Cross Reference to Related Patent Applications This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 056,857, filed July 27, 2020, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to filtration products. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to sealing interface geometries for filtration products. BACKGROUND In various applications, it is often desirable to minimize the amount of particulate contamination in a fluid used to drive and lubricate an internal combustion engine. The amount of particulate contamination can be reduced by passing the fluid through a filter element or cartridge that traps solid particles entrained in the fluid.

[0004] SUMMARY One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter assembly. The filter assembly includes a filter housing and a filter element. The filter housing includes an engagement member. The filter element includes a media pack and a sealing member. The media pack includes a filter media configured to filter a fluid passing through the filter media. The sealing member is coupled to the media pack and is engageable with the engagement member. The sealing member is formed as a Reuleaux shape.

[0005] In some embodiments, the sealing member has an odd number of edges having substantially equal radii.

[0006] In some embodiments, a distance between two parallel lines positioned on opposite sides of the sealing member and engaging a perimeter of the sealing member is substantially equal at any location along the perimeter of the sealing member.

[0007] In some embodiments, the sealing member includes a curved edge at each vertex of the Reuleaux shape and a side edge between each curved edge, and wherein a ratio between a radius of at least one of the curved edges and a radius of at least one of the side edges is in a range of about 0 to 0.5.

[0008] In some embodiments, the sealing member defines a central opening, and wherein a cross-section through the sealing member along a radial reference plane that is substantially parallel to and extends through a central axis of the central opening is formed as the Reuleaux shape.

[0009] In some embodiments, the sealing member defines a central opening, and wherein an overall shape of the sealing member along a plane extending through the sealing member and oriented perpendicular to a central axis of the central opening is formed into the lemniscate shape.

[0010] In some embodiments, the sealing member is angled relative to a first reference plane oriented perpendicular to a central axis of the filter element.

[0011] In some embodiments, the sealing member includes a truncation along an outer perimeter of the sealing member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the filter element further includes an end cap coupled to an axial end of the media pack, the end cap including a base and an extension extending axially away from the base, the sealing member being coupled to the extension.

[0013] In some embodiments, the extension is formed into the lemniscate shape.

[0014] In some embodiments, the lemniscate shape has a substantially constant cross-sectional width.

[0015] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter element. The filter element includes a media pack and a sealing member. The media pack includes a filter media configured to filter a fluid passing through the filter media. The sealing member is coupled to the media pack. The sealing member is engageable with a filter housing to substantially prevent fluid flow through an interface between the sealing member and the filter housing. The sealing member is formed into a lemniscate shape.

[0016] In some embodiments, the sealing member has an odd number of edges having substantially equal radii.

[0017] In some embodiments, the sealing member includes a curved edge at each vertex of the lemniscate shape and a side edge between each curved edge, and wherein a ratio between a radius of at least one of the curved edges and a radius of at least one of the side edges is in a range of about 0 to 0.5.

[0018] In some embodiments, the sealing member defines a central opening, and wherein a cross-section of the sealing member along a radial reference plane extending through the sealing member is formed into the lemniscate shape, the radial reference plane being substantially parallel to and extending through a central axis of the central opening.

[0019] In some embodiments, the sealing member is angled relative to a first reference plane oriented perpendicular to a central axis of the filter element.

[0020] In some embodiments, the lero shape has a substantially constant cross-sectional width.

[0021] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter housing. The filter housing includes a sidewall, an end wall, and an engagement member. The sidewall and the end wall together define an internal cavity. The end wall is disposed at a first end of the sidewall. The engagement member is coupled to the end wall. The engagement member is configured to sealingly engage a sealing member of a filter element. The engagement member is formed in a lero shape.

[0022] In some embodiments, the engagement member includes a flange extending axially away from the end wall and toward the internal cavity.

[0023] In some embodiments, the sidewall defines an access opening and a first opening, and the end wall defines a second opening.

[0024] In some embodiments, the lero shape has an odd number of sides, and wherein each side of the lero shape has a substantially equal radius.

[0025] In some embodiments, the engagement member includes a curved edge at each vertex of the lero shape and a side edge between each curved edge, and wherein a ratio between a radius of at least one of the curved edges and a radius of at least one of the side edges is in a range of about 0 to 0.5.

[0026] In some embodiments, the lero shape has a substantially constant cross-sectional width. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims, in which: Figure 1A is a perspective view of an example air filter element having an inward-facing sealing member; Figure 1B is a cross-sectional view of an example air cleaner housing for use with Figure 1A the air filter element of Figure 2 is a construction line diagram for a first example shape having a constant width; Figure 3 is a second example shape having a constant width; Figure 4 is a third example shape having a constant width; Figure 5A is a construction line diagram for a three-dimensional shape having a constant width; Figure 5BThese are various example three-dimensional shapes with a constant width; Figure 5C This is a construction line diagram for a fourth example shape with a constant width; Figure 6 This is a perspective view of another example air filter element with an inwardly facing sealing member; Figure 7 This is a perspective view of an example air filter element with an outward-facing sealing member; Figure 8 This is a perspective view of an example air filter element with an axially oriented sealing member; Figure 9 This is a top perspective view of an example axial flow filter element; Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A bottom perspective view of an axial flow filter element; Figure 11 This is a perspective view of an example filter element cartridge including a sealing gasket; Figure 12 This is a perspective view of another example filter element cartridge, including a sealing gasket integrally formed with the end cap; Figure 13 This is a perspective view of another example filter element, the filter cartridge, including the inward-facing sealing member; Figure 14 This is a perspective view of an example spin-on filter element cartridge; Figure 15 This is a perspective view of another example filter element with a filter media package in the shape of a racetrack; Figure 16 This is a perspective view of another example filter element with a rectangular filter media package; Figure 17 It is a perspective view of a square-cut washer formed into a Reuleaux shape with a constant width; Figure 18 It is a perspective view of a washer with a Reuleaux cross-section that is formed into a circular shape; Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A cross-sectional view of the washer; Figure 20 This is a perspective view of another filter element with an axially oriented sealing member; Figure 21 yes Figure 20 A cross-sectional view of the gasket of the filter element; Figure 22 This is a perspective view of another filter element with an end cap having a non-circular shape of constant width; Figure 23 is a top view of an end cap of Figure 22 Figure 24 is a perspective view of another example filter element including an angled sealing gasket; Figure 25 is a side view of a filter element of Figure 24 Figure 26 is a top view of another example filter element including a truncated sealing gasket; Figure 27 is a perspective view of another example filter element including a truncated and angled sealing gasket; Figure 28 is a perspective view of another example filter element cartridge including an angled sealing gasket; Figure 29 is a side view of another example filter element cartridge including a plurality of angled sealing gaskets; Figure 30 is a partial perspective view of an example air cleaner assembly; Figure 31 is a partial front view of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 30 is a side cross-sectional view of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 32 Figure 30 is a perspective view of a primary filter element of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 33 is a top view of a primary filter element of Figure 30 is a perspective view of a secondary filter element of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 34 Figure 33 is a front view of a secondary filter element of Figure 35 is a perspective view of a housing of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 30 is a front view of a housing of Figure 36 Figure 35 is a perspective view of another secondary filter element. Figure 37 is a perspective view of a housing of an air cleaner assembly of Figure 30 is a front view of a housing of Figure 38 Figure 37 is a perspective view of another secondary filter element. Figure 39 is a perspective view of another secondary filter element.

[0027] It should be appreciated that some or all of the figures can be schematic representations for purposes of the description. The figures are provided for purposes of illustration and explanation and are not meant as limitations of the scope or applicability of the claims. DETAILED DESCRIPTION​​​​​​ The following is a more detailed description of various concepts related to and embodiments of methods, devices, and systems for sealing a filter element to a fluid filtration system. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in more detail below can be implemented in any of a variety of ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular implementation. Specific embodiments and examples of implementations are provided for illustrative purposes only.

[0028] I. INTRODUCTION Internal combustion engine systems require clean fluids (e.g., fuel, air, oil, etc.) to drive and / or lubricate the engine. Unfiltered fluids can include dirt, metal particles, and other solid contaminants that can damage engine components (e.g., fuel injectors, cylinder rings, pistons, etc.). To protect the engine components, many internal combustion engine systems include a filtration system that filters incoming and / or recirculating fluids to remove any solid matter before passing the fluids to the engine. The filtration system can include a housing, a filter head, and a filter element. In operation, the filtration system directs the fluids through the filter element, which includes a media that traps any solid particles entrained in the fluids. The filtration system can also include a sealing element and / or interface to sealingly engage the filter element to the housing and / or filter head and substantially prevent the solid matter from bypassing the filter element. It is generally desirable to remove as many contaminants from the fluids as possible without significantly affecting the pressure drop of the overall fluid flow system. The performance of the filtration system depends on, among other factors, the structure of the filter element and the materials used to construct the filter element (e.g., the material of the filter media used to produce the filter element), the specifications of the filter media pack (e.g., the flow area of the filter media pack, the pleat depth of the filter media pack), and other factors.

[0029] Over time, the particles (e.g., carbon, dirt, metal particles, etc.) that accumulate on the filter element can increase the pressure drop of the overall filter element (and, correspondingly, the pressure drop of the overall fluid delivery and / or recirculation system of the engine). To reduce the pressure drop, the filter element can be removed from the filtration system and replaced with a clean filter element. In some cases, the user can choose to replace the filter element with a non-genuine filter element; for example, to reduce maintenance costs. However, the filtration performance of non-genuine filter elements can be significantly lower than that of OEM filter elements. Over time, operation with non-genuine filter elements can cause damage to the injectors and / or other parts of the engine, resulting in decreased engine performance.

[0030] Embodiments herein relate to methods and systems including unique seal element geometries and / or seal interface geometries between filter elements and other portions of a filtration system. In particular, embodiments herein relate to seal interface geometries formed into a Luer shape, which is a closed convex curve having a constant cross-sectional width between two parallel lines on opposite sides of the Luer shape. Among various benefits, use of a Luer shape can help prevent use of non-OEM filter elements, which can cause damage to various engine components, which further leads to increased warranty costs. The Luer shape can be applied to various filtration products (e.g., air filtration, fuel filtration, lube oil filtration, crankcase ventilation, etc.) across different product lines without significantly altering the design of the filtration products. Moreover, the size of the Luer shape can be scaled infinitely to accommodate different applications and / or filtration products across a product line without requiring extensive changes to existing components. Because the number of Luer shapes is also infinite, the number of unique seal interface variations that can be applied to different filtration products is also unlimited.

[0031] In some embodiments, the Luer geometry can be applied to a seal element and / or seal interface that at least partially defines an inlet opening and / or an outlet opening of a filter element. Because the Luer shape has a constant cross-sectional width between the parallel lines on opposite sides of the Luer shape, use of a Luer shape can minimize flow restriction relative to other non-circular cross-sectional shapes for an equivalent flow area (e.g., the hydraulic diameter and / or the ratio of flow area to perimeter of the Luer shape is greater than other non-circular shapes). Circular tubes can also be more easily adapted to transition to a Luer shape (e.g., a tube transitioning from a circular shape to a Luer shape) without significantly impacting the pressure drop across the tube as compared to other non-circular shapes. Moreover, the Luer shape facilitates “clocking” (e.g., rotational alignment) between the filter element and the filter housing, which can be important in some embodiments and cannot be achieved by a circular shaped seal interface by itself.

[0032] In some embodiments, the seal element is a gasket formed into a Luer shape (e.g., a closed convex curve having a central opening, where the closed curve forms the Luer shape). The cross-section of the gasket (e.g., a cross-section taken through the gasket along a plane substantially parallel to and extending through a central axis of the central opening) can also be formed into a Luer shape. Forming a gasket having a Luer-shaped cross-section ensures a constant cross-sectional thickness of the gasket (subject to standard manufacturing tolerances), which promotes uniform contact between the gasket and a sealing surface. The constant cross-sectional thickness also ensures a consistent spacing between the filter element and the housing when different shapes (e.g., different Luer shapes having the same thickness) are used.

[0033] II. Example Filter Element Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a first example filter element 100 of a filtration system. Filter element 100 is an air filter element for filtering air entering an internal combustion engine to prevent dust particles, insects, dirt, and other contaminants from entering the engine. In other embodiments, the filter element may be another type of filter for cleaning incoming and / or recirculated fluids. For example, the filter element may be a fuel filter for removing contaminants (e.g., water and / or solid particles) from fuel used to drive the engine (e.g., diesel fuel, gasoline, etc.), an oil filter for filtering lubricating oil partially recirculated through the internal combustion engine system, a crankcase ventilation filter for removing oil (e.g., aerosol vapors and oil droplets) and other contaminants from crankcase blow-by, or other filter types. In some embodiments, the filter element may be part of a filtration system for non-engine applications, such as hydraulic systems or any other application using fluids that must be cleaned of contaminants and debris.

[0034] Filter element 100 ( Figure 1A The size and shape are designed to be received in the filter housing 200 ( Figure 1B It is located within (e.g., within the hollow portion 202 of the filter housing 200) and is detachably connected to the filter housing 200. Figure 1A As shown, the filter element 100 is a replaceable filter cartridge that is periodically replaced as the filter element 100 becomes filled with dust and other contaminants. The filter element 100 includes a media pack 102, a first end cap 104 disposed at a first end 106 of the media pack 102, and a second end cap 108 disposed at a second end 110 of the media pack 102 opposite to the first end 106.

[0035] Figure 1AThe filter element 100 is a cylindrical filter cartridge having a cylindrical media pack (shown as media pack 102). In other embodiments, the filter element 100 and / or the media pack 102 can have a different cross-sectional shape. The media pack 102 includes filter media 112 configured to filter particulate matter and / or other contaminants from a fluid flowing therethrough, thereby producing a filtered fluid (e.g., a clean fluid). The filter media 112 can include a porous material having a predetermined pore size. The filter media 112 can include a paper-based filter media, a fiber-based filter media, a foam-based filter media, or the like. The filter media 112 can be pleated or formed into another desired shape to increase the flow through the media pack 102 or otherwise alter the particulate removal efficiency of the filter element 100. The filter element 100 can be arranged as an outside-in flow filter element having an outer dirty side and an inner clean side. In an alternative arrangement, the filter element 100 is an inside-out filter element having an inner dirty side and an outer clean side. Fluid to be filtered flows from the dirty side of the filter element 100 to the clean side of the filter element 100. In Figure 1A In embodiments, the filter element 100 is a radial flow filter element in which flow passes through the media pack 102 in a substantially radial direction. In other embodiments, the media pack 102 can be arranged such that flow passes through the media pack 102 in an axial direction (e.g., a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis 116) or at least partially in an axial direction.

[0036] In some embodiments, the media pack 102 is formed of a plurality of filter media in a cross-tetrahedron form. The media pack extends axially (e.g., along an axial direction) between an upstream inlet and a downstream outlet along a plurality of curved lines. The curved lines taper in a transverse direction. In one embodiment, the curved lines include a first set of curved lines extending axially from the upstream inlet toward the downstream outlet, and a second set of curved lines extending axially from the downstream outlet toward the upstream inlet. The media pack can have a plurality of wall segments extending in a serpentine manner between the curved lines that extend axially and define a common volume therebetween. The common volume can have a height along a transverse direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to the axial direction) and a lateral width along a lateral direction (e.g., a direction perpendicular to both the axial direction and the transverse direction). At least some of the curved lines can taper in the transverse direction as the curved lines extend axially in the axial direction. The wall segments extending in the serpentine manner can define a laterally extending serpentine span including a first wall segment laterally adjacent a second wall segment and joined to the second wall segment by a first curved line. The wall segments can continue in the serpentine manner along the serpentine span to a third wall segment laterally adjacent the second wall segment and joined to the second wall segment by a second curved line, and so on along the serpentine span. The serpentine span can extend along the lateral direction such that the taper of the curved lines tapering in the transverse direction is perpendicular to the serpentine span along the lateral direction. The wall segments can include a first set of wall segments alternatingly sealed to one another at the upstream inlet to define a first set of forms having open upstream ends, and a second set of forms intersecting the first set of forms and having closed upstream ends. The wall segments can include a second set of wall segments alternatingly sealed to one another at the downstream outlet to define a third set of forms having closed downstream ends, and a fourth set of forms intersecting the third set of forms and having open downstream ends. The first set of curved lines can include a first subset of curved lines defining the first set of forms, and a second subset of curved lines defining the second set of forms. The second subset of curved lines can taper in the transverse direction as the second subset of curved lines extends axially from the upstream inlet toward the downstream outlet. The second set of curved lines can include a third subset of curved lines defining the third set of forms, and a fourth subset of curved lines defining the fourth set of forms. The fourth subset of curved lines can taper in the transverse direction as the fourth subset of curved lines extends axially from the downstream outlet toward the upstream inlet. Such a tetrahedron media pack geometry is described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 8,397,920, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

[0037] Filter element 100 defines a central opening 114 extending along a central axis 116 (e.g., a longitudinal axis, etc.) of filter element 100. In some embodiments, the central opening 114 is sized to receive a central support tube therein. The support tube is configured to improve the strength of filter element 100 under compressive loading (e.g., due to air pressure differentials on media package 102). In other embodiments, such as Figure 1A As shown, the filter element 100 does not include a support tube, but instead includes a spiral bead of hot melt (e.g., glue or another adhesive product) extending in a longitudinal direction (e.g., an axial direction parallel to the central axis 116) between a first end 106 and a second end 110 across both sides of the clean and dirty sides of the filter element 100 (e.g., the inner and outer surfaces of the media package 102).

[0038] like Figure 1A As shown, the first end cap 104 defines a sealing member 118 having a Reuleaux geometry. The first end cap 104 may be molded to or otherwise formed onto a first end 106 of the media package 102 and may seal the first end 106 of the media package 102 (e.g., sealing the clean side of the media package from the dirty side at the first end 106). In other embodiments, the first end cap 104 is overmold-molded onto an existing end cap 120 at the first end 106. In yet another embodiment, the first end cap 104 is a press-fitted, separate piece from the filter element 100 onto an existing end cap 120. Figure 1A As shown, the first end cap 104 includes an extension 122 (e.g., a tab, a shank, etc.) that engages with the opening 124 in the existing end cap 120 along the inner peripheral boundary portion 121 of the opening 124 to facilitate alignment between the sealing member 118 in the first end cap 104 and the opening 124 (e.g., such that the central axis 119 of the sealing member 118 is substantially collinear with the central axis 116 of the filter element 100). The extension 122 extends toward the central opening 114 in a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis 116 of the filter element 100, away from the lower surface (not shown) of the first end cap 104. In some embodiments, the first end cap 104 includes a plurality of extensions that engage different portions of the opening 124. For example, the first end cap 104 may include a plurality of extensions spaced approximately equally in a circumferential direction along the lower surface. In other embodiments, the arrangement of the extensions may be different. In yet another embodiment, the first end cap 104 does not include the extension 122.

[0039] The sealing member 118 is a radial sealing element that faces radially inward toward the central axis 116 of the filter element 100. For example... Figure 1AAs shown, the sealing member 118 is formed by a through-hole opening 126 extending through the first end cap 104. The through-hole opening 126 forms a Lohrh shape along a cross-section of a plane perpendicular to the central axis 116. In Figure 1A embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole opening 126 is a Lohrh triangle having three outer edges and three vertices. In other embodiments, the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole opening 126 can form different Lohrh shapes. The through-hole opening 126 in the first end cap 104 and the opening 124 in the existing end cap 120 together define an inlet and / or an outlet of the filter element 100. The Lohrh shape provides the greatest ratio of flow area to perimeter compared to other non-circular shapes, which reduces pressure drop and reduces the overall footprint of the sealing interface between the filter element 100 and the filter housing. As Figure 1A shown, each edge (e.g., side, etc.) of the Lohrh triangle extends along and is tangent to at least a portion of a perimeter edge of the opening 124 in the existing end cap 120. In some embodiments, the width of the through-hole opening 126 in the first end cap 104 is substantially equal to or greater than the width of the opening 124 in the existing end cap 120, which advantageously maximizes the flow area into or out of the filter element 100 (and minimizes flow restriction).

[0040] The sealing member 118 (e.g., the first end cap 104) can be made of a metal or plastic material by molding (e.g., urethane or another curable plastic), injection molding, extrusion, overmolding, additive manufacturing, machining, stamping, pressing, or another suitable manufacturing method. The sealing member 118 can be formed of a soft urethane material or another suitable plastic and / or rubber material.

[0041] As Figure 1B shown, the hollow portion 202 of the filter housing 200 is sized to receive the filter element 100 therein and direct fluid flow through the filter element 100. The filter housing 200 includes an engagement member configured to sealingly engage the sealing member 118. In Figure 1B embodiments, the engagement member is an internal flange 204 sized to sealingly engage the sealing member 118 in the first end cap 104. The internal flange 204 is a protrusion extending away from an end of the filter housing 200 in an axial direction (e.g., parallel to a central axis of the filter housing 200, in a direction substantially perpendicular to the end of the filter housing 200). The cross-sectional shape of the internal flange 204 is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the sealing member 118 in the first end cap 104 (e.g., the Lohrh triangle). Figure 1AThe cross-sectional shape of the through-hole opening 126 in the first end cap 104 is the same (e.g., complementary). In other words, the cross-sectional shape of the inner flange 204 is also a Reuleaux triangle. The outer width of the Reuleaux triangle formed by the inner flange 204 is approximately the same as the inner width of the Reuleaux triangle formed by the through-hole opening 126 in the first end cap 104, such that when the filter element 100 is engaged with the filter housing 200, the inner flange 204 presses against and seals against the sealing member 118 in the first end cap 104. In other embodiments, and for different filtration products, the design of the engagement member of the filter housing may differ.

[0042] Figure 2 The construction lines used for the Reuleaux shape are shown, illustrated as Reuleaux triangle 300. (As shown) Figure 2 As shown, the width 302 of the Reuleaux shape corresponds to the distance between two parallel lines located on opposite sides of the Reuleaux shape, each of which touches the boundary of the Reuleaux shape. The Reuleaux shape is created starting from an equilateral polygon with an odd number of edges, which in this case is an equilateral triangle 304. Draw the first arc 306 connecting two adjacent vertices of the equilateral triangle 304. Figure 3 As shown, the first arc 306 is part of a circle 307 centered on the vertex of the equilateral triangle 304 opposite to the first arc 306. The radius 309 of the first arc 306 corresponds to the straight-line distance between adjacent vertices of the equilateral triangle 304. This arc construction operation is repeated for the second arc 308 and the third arc 310 on the remaining sides of the equilateral triangle 304 to form a closed convex curved profile of the Reuleaux triangle 300. Figures 3-4 As shown, similar construction operations can be performed using other odd-sided equilateral polygons that have a greater number of edges than triangles, for example... Figure 3 The five edges of the five-sided Reuleaux shape 350 shown are... Figure 4 The seven sides of the Reuleaux shape 370 shown are either the seven edges or more, as provided by equation (1) below:

[0043] The construction methods described above can also be extended to three-dimensional shapes that share similar properties with their two-dimensional counterparts (e.g., a constant width across the volume of the Reuleaux body relative to its center point, etc.). For example, Figure 5A and Figure 5B Various three-dimensional Reuleaux shapes are shown, including the four-sided Reuleaux tetrahedron 380 (…). Figure 5A ) and other three-dimensional Reuleaux shapes with a greater number of side surfaces ( Figure 5B ).

[0044] In some embodiments, the Reuleaux shape may include rounded corners (e.g., rounded and / or curved edges, protrusions, etc.) instead of sharp corners at each vertex. For example, Figure 5C A Reuleaux triangle 400 is shown, which includes side edges 402 and rounded edges 404 connecting the side edges 402 at the location of each vertex 406. Figure 5C As shown, the radius R1 of each of the rounded edges 404 is smaller than the radius R2 of each of the side edges 402. In one embodiment, the radius R1 of each rounded edge 404 is chosen such that the rounded edges 404 are approximately tangent to the side edges 402 where they contact them. Figure 5C In one embodiment, the radius R1 of each rounded edge 404 is determined such that the ratio of radius R1 to radius R2 is in the range of approximately 0 to 0.5 (e.g., 0 ≤ R1 / R2 ≤ 0.5), but in other embodiments the relationship between radius R1 and radius R2 may be different. Among other advantages, using rounded corners at each vertex improves the fit between the filter element and the filter housing and / or other components of the filtration system (e.g., secondary filters, etc.) and provides additional Reuleaux shape variations.

[0045] Figure 1A The design and dimensions of the Reuleaux geometry are shown for illustrative purposes only. Many alternatives and combinations are possible without departing from the inventive principles disclosed herein. For example, Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a second example filter element 500, which includes a sealing member 518 formed in a five-sided Reuleaux shape with five curved edges and five vertices. The width 520 of the five-sided Reuleaux shape is greater than the width 522 (e.g., diameter) of the inlet / outlet opening 524 in the existing end cap 526, which advantageously reduces the pressure drop associated with the sealing member 518 across the inlet / outlet opening 524.

[0046] Reuleaux seals can also be used in other sealing configurations, including but not limited to radially outward-facing seals, axially-facing seals, and others. For example, Figure 7 A secondary filter element 600 (e.g., an internal filter element) for a filtration system is shown, comprising a first end cap 604 defining a radially outwardly facing sealing member (shown as sealing member 618) in the shape of a Reuleaux triangle. In other embodiments, the Reuleaux shape formed by the sealing member 618 may be different. The secondary filter element 600 is sized to be received within a central opening of a primary filter element (e.g., an external filter element, a main filter element, etc.). Figure 1A Inside the central opening 114). Figure 7In one embodiment, a first end cap 604 is coupled to a first end 606 of a secondary filter element 600 (e.g., media package 602) and seals the clean side of the media package 602 from the dirty side at the first end 606. A sealing member 618 is integrally formed with the first end cap 604 as a single unit. The sealing member 618 is formed along the outer periphery of the first end cap 604 and is configured to be disposed within and sealably engage with a complementary sealing member on the primary filter element.

[0047] Figure 8 A third example filter element 700 is shown, including an axially oriented sealing member 718. The filter element 700 includes a media package 702, a first end cap 704 disposed at a first end 706 of the media package 702, and a second end cap 708 disposed at a second end 710 of the media package 702 opposite to the first end 706. Figure 8 As shown, the first end cap 704 defines a substantially circular inlet / outlet opening for the filter element 700, shown as inlet / outlet opening 724. Figure 8 As shown, the axially facing sealing member 718 is a square-cut washer, shown as washer 720 (e.g., a washer having a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape). Washer 720 engages the outward-facing axially facing surface of the first end cap 704 and surrounds the inlet / outlet opening 724. In one embodiment, washer 720 is a separate material piece (e.g., a soft urethane material) that is glued or otherwise bonded to the first end cap 704 (e.g., a hard urethane material).

[0048] like Figure 8 As shown, the gasket 720 is formed in a seven-sided Reuleaux shape with seven edges and seven vertices. The width of the gasket 720 is greater than the width of the inlet / outlet opening 724 to ensure a complete seal against the filter housing at the first end 706. Figure 8 In one embodiment, the gasket 720 sealably engages a sealing surface within the filter housing, which also has a five-sided Reuleaux shape, preventing counterfeit filter elements from being installed in place of filter element 700.

[0049] Figures 9-10 An axial flow filter element, shown as filter element 800, is illustrated, wherein flow passes through a media package 802 in a substantially axial direction (e.g., a longitudinal direction parallel to the central axis 816 of the filter element 800). The media package 802 may be formed of a corrugated media or another non-pleated filter media. The filter element 800 includes a flange 804 extending substantially radially away from the media package 802, such that at least a portion of the flange 804 is positioned at a larger radial location than the media package 802. Figure 9As shown, flange 804 is disposed at an intermediate longitudinal position between opposite ends of media package 802. Flange 804 is positioned close to a first end of media package 802, but in other embodiments it may be positioned at a central location or another intermediate location. In one embodiment, flange 804 is "clipped" or otherwise disposed between two separate portions of media package 802 (e.g., a first media package and a second media package separate from the first media package).

[0050] like Figure 10 As shown, flange 804 includes a sealing member 818 disposed on the lower surface of flange 804 and axially facing the second end 810 of filter element 800. Sealing member 818 extends along the outer periphery of flange 804. Figure 10 In one embodiment, the sealing member 818 is a square-cut washer having a substantially rectangular cross-section. The sealing member 818 may be coupled or otherwise attached to the flange 804. In other embodiments, the sealing member 818 may be integrally formed with the flange 804 as a single unit. Figure 10 As shown, both flange 804 and sealing member 818 are formed in a seven-sided Reuleaux shape with seven edges and seven vertices. Among other advantages, using the same shape for flange 804 and sealing member 818 minimizes the amount of material required for flange 804. In some embodiments, flange 804 may be received within a recessed region and / or an inner flange of the filter housing, the recessed region and / or the inner flange being shaped to accommodate flange 804 to prevent assembly between a counterfeit filter element and the housing (e.g., preventing the filter element from being fully inserted into the housing, etc.). In other embodiments, the shape formed by the outer peripheral edge of flange 804 may differ from the shape of sealing member 818 (e.g., flange 804 may be substantially circular, etc.).

[0051] In some embodiments, the sealing member is a gasket formed separately from the end cap of the filter element, which can be inserted into the filter element before it is installed into the filter housing. For example, Figure 11 An example filter element 900 is shown, which includes a Reuleaux-shaped washer, shown as washer 918, that engages with an extension 920 of an end cap 904. The extension 920 is integrally formed with the end cap 904 and extends axially away from the end cap 904 (e.g., as shown). Figure 11As shown, parallel to the central axis of the end cap 904, vertically upward from the end cap 904, etc. An extension 920 is positioned centrally along the side of the end cap 904 opposite to the media package 902 (e.g., upper side, outer side, etc.), such that the extension 920 extends axially away from the media package 902. The extension 920 defines an inlet / outlet opening (e.g., the perimeter of the inlet / outlet opening) through which fluid can enter or exit the filter element 900, depending on the configuration of the filter element 900. When viewed from above (e.g., a top view of the extension 920 at the inlet / outlet opening), the extension 920 forms a Reuleaux shape. The cross-sectional shape of the extension 920 along a plane oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the filter element 900 is a Reuleaux triangle. A gasket 918 is disposed on and surrounds the extension 920. When fully installed onto end cap 904, the lower surface of washer 918 engages end cap 904 (e.g., the upper side). The axial height 919 of washer 918 is less than the height 921 of extension 920, such that extension 920 protrudes upward from washer 918 when the washer engages with end cap 904. In other embodiments, washer 918 may be positioned midway between the upper and lower ends of extension 920, or near the upper end of extension 920. In some embodiments, the height of washer 918 is approximately the same as the height of extension 920. Figure 11 As shown, gasket 918 is also formed in a Reuleaux shape (e.g., a Reuleaux triangle), the same shape as extension 920. Gasket 918 is rotated to align with extension 920 such that the shape of gasket 918 is not distorted when it is mounted onto extension 920. A sealing member is defined radially outward and away from media package 902 along the surface of the outer periphery of gasket 918. Figure 11 In one embodiment, the medium package 902 may be a coalescer of a crankcase ventilation system.

[0052] Figure 12 It shows a shape similar to Figure 11 The filter element 900 and the filter element 1000, but Figure 12The sealing member 1018 is defined by one or a combination of the following: (i) a surface extending along the outer periphery of the extension 1020 (e.g., a radially outward sealing member defined by the outer surface 1022 of the extension 1020); (ii) a surface extending along the inner periphery of the extension 1020 (e.g., a radially inward sealing member defined by the inner surface 1024 of the extension 1020); and (iii) a surface 1026 along the upper axial end of the extension 1020 (e.g., an axially facing sealing member). The extension 1020 is integrally formed with the end cap 1004 as a single unit, and the extension 1020 extends axially away from the end cap 1004 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 12 As shown, parallel to the central axis of the end cap 1004, vertically upward from the end cap 1004, etc., the extension 1020 is positioned centrally along the side of the end cap 1004 opposite to the media package 1002 (e.g., upper side, outer side, etc.), such that the extension 1020 extends axially away from the media package 1002. The extension 1020 defines an inlet / outlet opening (e.g., the perimeter of the inlet / outlet opening) through which fluid can enter or exit the filter element 1000, depending on the configuration of the filter element 1000. When viewed from above (e.g., a top view of the extension 1020 at the inlet / outlet opening), the extension 1020 forms a Reuleaux shape. The cross-sectional shape of the extension 1020 along a plane oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the filter element 1000 is a Reuleaux triangle. The extension 1020 (and end cap 1004) may be formed of a soft urethane material such as polyurethane, or another suitablely flexible and fluid-impermeable material, to sealably engage the filter housing.

[0053] Figure 13 A filter element 1100 is shown, which includes an inwardly facing sealing member, shown as sealing member 1118, integrally formed with an end cap 1104 of the filter element 1100. Sealing member 1118 defines an inlet / outlet opening of the filter element 1100. Sealing member 1118 is defined by a Reuleaux-shaped opening extending from a first side / outer side of the end cap 1104 through the end cap 1104 to a second side / inner side of the end cap 1104. Figure 13 In one embodiment, the opening is shaped as a Reuleaux triangle, but different Reuleaux shapes can be used in other embodiments. Figure 13 In one embodiment, the material used for the end cap 1104 also forms the sealing member 1118.

[0054] Figure 14A spin-on cartridge filter element is shown, shown as filter element 1200, which can be used as, for example, a lubricating oil filter. Filter element 1200 includes a toroid-shaped gasket, shown as gasket 1218, disposed on an axial end of filter element 1200 (e.g., on an upper surface of retainer 1220 (e.g., a nut plate, etc.) at an open end of filter housing 1222 (e.g., a shell, etc.). Gasket 1218 is disposed on an upper side 1219 (e.g., an outer side, etc.) of retainer 1220 and substantially encloses a plurality of inlet and / or outlet openings of retainer 1220. Gasket 1218 extends upward in the axial direction away from upper side 1219 distal to the media pack. Gasket 1218 forms an axial sealing member for filter element 1200. When filter element 1200 is fully installed onto a filter head, gasket 1218 engages a sealing surface of the filter head that is the same shape as gasket 1218. During installation, a user can threadably engage filter element 1200 with the filter head and tighten filter element 1200 to compress gasket 1218 between the retainer and the sealing surface. The user continues to rotate gasket 1218 to align gasket 1218 with the sealing surface. In some embodiments, filter element 1200 and / or the filter head includes an alignment indicator (e.g., a tab, a marker, etc.) or another synchronizing feature that engages with filter element 1200 and / or can be referenced by the user to ensure that gasket 1218 is fully aligned with the sealing surface on the filter head (e.g., to ensure that filter element 1200 is installed in the correct rotational position relative to the filter head).

[0055] Toroid-shaped sealing member geometries can also be used on non-cylindrical filter element designs. For example, Figure 15 A filter element 1300 is shown having a media pack 1302 arranged in an oval or racetrack shape. Media pack 1302 can be made of pleated (e.g., flat media sheets formed into an accordion shape, having “V”-shaped pleats, etc.) or non-pleated (e.g., corrugated) filter media. In Figure 15 In embodiments, filter element 1300 is an axial flow filter element, in which fluid is directed through media pack 1302 in a substantially axial direction (e.g., parallel to a central axis of filter element 1300). Filter element 1300 includes an outer sealing flange, shown as flange 1304, that extends radially away from and encloses media pack 1302. Flange 1304 is disposed at an intermediate longitudinal position between opposite ends of filter element 1300. In Figure 15In one embodiment, flange 1304 is positioned near a first end 1306 of filter element 1300. In other embodiments, flange 1304 is positioned near a second end 1310 of filter element 1300, or at a center position between opposite ends of filter element 1300.

[0056] like Figure 15 As shown, flange 1304 is formed in a five-sided Reuleaux shape with five edges and five vertices. Depending on the desired configuration and design of the filter housing, flange 1304 can form an axial sealing member and / or a radially outward sealing member. Figure 16 A filter element 1400 (e.g., a panel-type filter element formed using pleated media) is shown, having media packages 1402 arranged in rectangular / square blocks. Similar to... Figure 15 The filter element 1300, Figure 16 The filter element 1400 includes an outer sealing flange, shown as flange 1404, which substantially surrounds the media package 1402 and is formed in a five-sided Reuleaux shape. In other embodiments, the sealing member (e.g., flange 1404) may be formed in another Reuleaux shape with more or fewer edges. In one embodiment, flange 1404 is a curable urethane in which the media package 1402 is encapsulated, but in other embodiments flange 1404 may be formed using different manufacturing methods and materials.

[0057] Figures 17-19 Various example gaskets that can be used as sealing components for filter elements are shown. Figure 17 A square-cut washer, shown as washer 1500 (e.g., a washer with a substantially rectangular cross-sectional shape, a flat washer, etc.), is illustrated. This washer may be stamped or otherwise formed from a flat sheet of washer material (e.g., soft urethane, neoprene, or other suitable material). Washer 1500 is a closed convex profile defining a central opening 1501. Viewed from above washer 1500, or along a plane 1503 extending through washer 1500 and oriented perpendicular to the central axis 1505 of the central opening 1501, the overall shape of washer 1500 is a Reuleaux shape. Specifically, the overall shape of washer 1500 is a five-sided Reuleaux shape with five edges and five vertices, which together form the perimeter of the central opening 1501.

[0058] Figures 18-19A gasket 1550 having a Luer cross-section (e.g., a seven-sided Luer shape) is shown. The gasket 1550 can be an O-ring style sealing element formed by an extrusion operation using an extrusion die having the same cross-sectional shape as the gasket 1550. The cross-section of the gasket 1550 is formed as a seven-sided Luer shape taken through the gasket 1550 along a radial reference plane 1553 that is substantially parallel to and extends through a central axis 1555 of the central opening 1551. The thickness of the material of the gasket 1550 is approximately constant between any two opposing sides of the cross-section (e.g., between two parallel lines placed on the opposing sides of the cross-section). Among other advantages, forming the gasket 1550 having a Luer cross-section ensures a constant cross-sectional thickness of the gasket 1550 (subject to standard manufacturing tolerances), which promotes uniform contact between the gasket 1550 and a sealing surface. The constant cross-sectional thickness also ensures a consistent spacing between the filter element and the housing when different shapes are used (e.g., different Luer shapes having the same thickness). As shown, Figure 18 the overall shape of the gasket 1550 (formed by the gasket 1550 along the perimeter of the central opening) is a circular shape. In other embodiments, the overall shape / geometry of the gasket 1550 can be a Luer shape to form a multi-Luer sealing member. For example, Figures 20-21 A filter element 1600 is shown that includes a multi-Luer sealing member 1618 on an axial end of the filter element 1600. As shown, Figure 20 the multi-Luer sealing member 1618 is a gasket disposed on an end cap 1606 of the filter element 1600 and is configured to seal against a filter housing (e.g., a sealing surface in the filter housing) in an axial direction (e.g., parallel to a central axis of the filter element 1600). The overall geometry of the gasket is a five-sided Luer shape. As shown, Figure 21 the cross-sectional geometry of the gasket is a Luer triangle (e.g., a three-sided Luer shape) having a different number of sides / edges than the overall shape of the gasket. In other embodiments, both the overall shape of the gasket and the cross-sectional shape of the gasket can be the same Luer shape.

[0059] Other components of the filter element can also be formed as Luer-shaped members to minimize pressure drop across the filter element and / or to promote "synchronization" (e.g., rotational alignment) between the filter element and the filter housing. For example, Figures 22-23A filter element 1700 is shown, which includes a Reuleaux-shaped member located on a closed end 1710 opposite to an open end (e.g., an inlet / outlet end). Specifically, the end cap 1708 of the filter element 1700 is molded, stamped, or otherwise formed into a Reuleaux shape. Figure 23 As shown, the side edges 1712 of the Reuleaux shape form the outer perimeter of the end cap 1708. In Figures 22-23 In one embodiment, the end cap 1708 is formed into a nine-sided Reuleaux shape having nine edges connected by nine vertices. In other embodiments, the end cap 1708 may be formed into different Reuleaux shapes with more or fewer side edges. In one embodiment, the end cap 1708 is shaped to engage with a flange of a complementary shape in the filter housing to rotate the filter element 1700 to the filter housing and / or prevent assembly between the filter housing and counterfeit filter elements.

[0060] Figures 24-25 A filter element 1800 is shown, including a sealing member 1818, which is angled relative to a first reference plane 1820 perpendicular to the central axis of the filter element 1800. Figure 25 As shown, the sealing member 1818 is an external sealing flange extending along and coplanar with the second reference plane 1822. The second reference plane 1822 forms a single bevel angle 1824 relative to the first reference plane 1820. In other embodiments, the sealing member 1818 (e.g., the flange) is multi-plane angled or inclined relative to the first reference plane 1820, such that the sealing member 1818 does not extend along a single reference plane.

[0061] Further modifications can be made to the Reuleaux-shaped filter element components to further increase variability and complexity. For example, the overall Reuleaux shape formed by the sealing components of the filter element can be truncated or include multiple truncated sections. Figures 26-27 Another example filter element 1900 is shown, which includes a truncated Reuleaux-shaped sealing member, shown as sealing member 1918. Figure 26 As shown, the outer flange 1904 of the filter element 1900 is truncated near the apex of the Reuleaux shape (e.g., including a truncated portion 1920), which adds an additional edge 1922 and apex 1924 to the geometry of the sealing member 1918. In some embodiments, the member includes only a single truncated portion. In other embodiments, the member may include multiple truncated portions. In one embodiment, the member includes multiple truncated portions symmetrical to each other to form parallel edges on opposite sides of the member. In other embodiments, the truncated portions may be randomly positioned along the member. Figure 27As shown, the sealing member 1918 is also angled relative to the filter element 1900.

[0062] Figure 28 Another example filter element 2000 is shown, in which the sealing member 2018 is a radially outwardly facing gasket disposed on the end cap 2004 of the filter element. As with the embodiments described above with reference to Figures 24-25 the sealing member 2018 is disposed at an angle relative to the filter element 2000 (e.g., a reference plane oriented perpendicular to the central axis 2016 of the filter element 2000). The sealing member 2018 is disposed on an extension 2020 that is integrally formed with the end cap 2004 and extends away from the end cap 2004 in a substantially axial direction. Figure 28

[0063] In some embodiments, the filter element includes multiple toricon members that interface with different (or the same) members in the filter housing to further prevent use of non-genuine filter elements / cartridges. For example, the filter element can include a toricon sealing member that interfaces with a complementary (e.g., toricon) sealing surface in the filter housing, and a toricon end cap that interfaces with a complementary (e.g., toricon) flange in the filter housing.

[0064] Figure 29 A filter element 2100 is shown that includes multiple toricon sealing members, including a first toricon sealing member (shown as first sealing member 2118) disposed on a first end cap 2104 of the filter element 2100, and a second toricon sealing member (shown as second sealing member 2120) disposed on a second end cap 2110 of the filter element 2100. In Figure 29 the embodiments, both the first and second sealing members 2118, 2120 are outwardly facing radial sealing elements each shaped as a toricon triangle. In other embodiments, the shape of each sealing member can be different (e.g., the first sealing member can be a toricon triangle, while the second sealing member can be a five-sided toricon shape, etc.). As shown, each sealing member can also be angled relative to the filter element 2100. The angle of the first sealing member can be the same as or different from the second sealing member. In other embodiments, at least one sealing member is disposed in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the central axis of the filter element 2100. Figure 29

[0065] Figures 30-32 A filter assembly 2200 is shown that includes a toricon sealing interface in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As shown, the filter assembly 2200 includes a filter element 2204 and a filter housing 2202. Figures 30-32 ​​As shown, filter assembly 2200 includes a filter housing 2202 and a filter assembly including a primary filter element 2204 (e.g., an outer filter element, etc.) and a secondary filter element 2206 (e.g., an inner filter element, a safety filter, etc.). As shown, primary filter element 2204 is configured to be received within filter housing 2202. As shown, secondary filter element 2206 is configured to be received within primary filter element 2204. Figures 30-31 As shown, filter housing 2202 includes an engagement member 2208 that is "sandwiched" or otherwise disposed between and sealingly engages a seal member of primary filter element 2204 and a seal member of secondary filter element 2206. Secondary filter element 2206 is nestably engaged with primary filter element 2204, and secondary filter element 2206 is at least partially disposed within a central opening defined by primary filter element 2204. More specifically, a seal member 2210 of secondary filter element 2206 is sized to nestably engage at least one of engagement member 2208 and / or a seal member 2212 of primary filter element 2204.

[0066] Primary filter element 2204 is a primary filter configured to remove contaminants from fluid entering an intake system. Secondary filter element 2206 is a backup and / or safety filter that is disposed within primary filter element 2204 and is configured to act as a backup filter to protect an engine in the event that primary filter element 2204 is damaged, or in the event that the integrity of the seal between primary filter element 2204 and filter housing 2202 is compromised. Figures 33-34 A perspective view and an end view of primary filter element 2204 are shown, respectively. As shown, primary filter element 2204 includes a media pack 2214 formed in a cylindrical shape. Media pack 2214 defines a central opening 2216 that extends along a central axis of primary filter element 2204 to form a hollow cylindrical cavity sized to receive at least a portion of secondary filter element 2206 therein (see also Figures 30-32 ). Primary filter element 2204 also includes a seal member 2212 formed in a toroid shape. Seal member 2212 of primary filter element 2204 is configured to sealingly engage filter housing along an inner radial surface of seal member 2210. Primary filter element 2204 has a similar construction as filter element 100 described with reference to Figure 1A As shown, primary filter element 2204 includes a media pack 2214 formed in a cylindrical shape. Media pack 2214 defines a central opening 2216 that extends along a central axis of primary filter element 2204 to form a hollow cylindrical cavity sized to receive at least a portion of secondary filter element 2206 therein. Primary filter element 2204 also includes a seal member 2212 formed in a toroid shape. Seal member 2212 of primary filter element 2204 is configured to sealingly engage filter housing along an inner radial surface of seal member 2210. Figure 34As shown, the width 2218 of the torus shape formed by the sealing member 2212 is greater than the width 2220 (e.g., diameter) of the inlet / outlet opening 2222 of the end cap 2224. The change in width between the sealing member 2212 and the end cap 2224 forms a step (e.g., ledge, etc.) that is configured to engage the sealing member 2210 of the secondary filter element 2206 and prevent axial movement of the secondary filter element 2206.

[0067] Figures 35-36 A perspective view and an end view of the secondary filter element 2206 are shown, respectively. The secondary filter element 2206 includes a sealing member 2210 having a torus shape that corresponds to and is complementary to the torus shape formed by the primary filter element 2204 (see FIG. 22A) and the engagement member of the filter housing. The sealing member 2210 of the secondary filter element 2206 is configured to sealingly engage the filter housing along an outer radial surface of the sealing member 2210. Figures 33-34

[0068] Figures 37-38 A perspective view and an end view of the filter housing 2202 are shown, respectively. The filter housing 2202 includes a body 2226 that includes a cylindrical sidewall (shown as sidewall 2228) and an end wall 2230 disposed proximate a first end 2232 of the sidewall 2228. Together, the sidewall 2228 and the end wall 2230 define a hollow interior cavity 2229 that is sized to receive the primary filter element and the secondary filter element therein. The body 2226 also defines a service opening 2233 in a second end of the body 2226 opposite the first end 2232, a first port 2234 (e.g., inlet port, inlet opening, etc.) defined by the sidewall 2228, and a second port 2236 (e.g., outlet port, outlet opening, etc.) defined by the end wall 2230. The body 2226 also includes fluid connections (e.g., conduits, etc.) at the first port 2234 and the second port 2236 to facilitate coupling with other portions of a filtration system. The filter housing 2202 can also include a cover configured to engage the body 2226 at the service opening 2233.

[0069] As Figures 37-38 ​As shown, the filter housing 2202 also includes a joining member 2238, which is coupled to the end wall 2230 and configured to sealably engage both the primary filter element and the secondary filter element. The joining member 2238 includes a flange 2240 (e.g., an inner flange) extending axially away from the end wall 2230 and toward the hollow cavity 2229. The flange 2240 is centrally located along the end wall 2230 and circumscribes the second port 2236. The width of the flange 2240 is greater than the width of the second port 2236 and is radially spaced from both the second port 2236 and the side wall 2228. The flange 2240 is formed in a Reuleaux shape with an odd number of sides having approximately equal radii. In various illustrative embodiments, the number and location of the flange 2240 along the body 2226 and / or the end wall 2230 may vary.

[0070] Figure 39 Another example of a secondary filter element 2300 is shown. The secondary filter element 2300 is substantially similar to the reference element. Figures 35-36 The secondary filter element 2206 is described, but also includes a plurality of openings 2302 that extend from the underside of the sealing member 2310 through the sealing member 2310 to the upper side of the sealing member 2310 opposite to the underside. Figure 39 In the embodiments described, each opening 2302 is sized to accommodate fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, or other suitable fasteners) to facilitate securing the secondary filter element to the filter housing and / or the primary filter element. Among other advantages, using additional fasteners to secure the secondary filter element to the filter housing increases the structural integrity of the filter assembly and prevents the secondary filter element from detaching from the flange of the filter housing during replacement of the primary filter element. It should be understood that the size, location, and number of openings may vary in the various illustrative embodiments.

[0071] IV. Construction of Example Implementations While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in this specification within the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, although features may be described as functioning in certain combinations, and even initially claimed in this way, in some cases one or more features from the claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may refer to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination.

[0072] As used herein, the terms "approximately," "substantially," and like terms are intended to have their broad, ordinary meaning to persons of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of the present disclosure pertains. Those of ordinary skill in the art reviewing the present disclosure will understand and appreciate that these terms are intended to allow for a certain level of variation as is commensurate with the underlying technical properties of the claimed disclosure. Thus, these terms shall be construed as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

[0073] As used herein, the terms "coupled," "attached," and like terms mean that two components are joined to one another, either directly or indirectly. Such joining can be fixed (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining can be effected by integral formation of two components or two components and any additional intervening components into a single unitary body, by attachment of two components or two components and any additional intervening components to one another.

[0074] The term "or" is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, in a list of two or more items, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z," unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to allow for the presence of only one of X, Y, and Z, or the presence of any combination of X, Y, and Z. Thus, conjunctive language such as the phrase "at least one of X, Y, and Z" is understood to allow for the presence of only one of X, Y, and Z, or the presence of any combination of X, Y, and Z, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0075] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the systems shown in the various example implementations is illustrative only and not restrictive in character. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit and / or scope of the described implementations are desired to be protected. It should be understood that some features can not be necessary, and embodying the application in other than the specific form described can be contemplated. When the term "a portion" is used, unless specifically stated to the contrary, the item refers to a portion and / or the whole of the item.

Claims

1. A filter element, comprising: A media package including a filter medium configured to filter fluid passing through it, the media package defining a central opening extending along a central axis; as well as An end cap, formed on the medium package and sealing the end of the medium package, the end cap comprising: Base portion, the base portion being formed on the medium package; The opening in the end cap; and An extension, extending axially away from the base and the media package, defines a sealing member and a through-hole opening having a larger diameter and a different cross-sectional shape than the opening in the end cap. The through-hole opening and the opening in the end cap together define an inlet or outlet of the filter element. The sealing member is defined by a surface extending along the inner periphery of the extension, and a plane of the sealing member oriented perpendicular to the central axis of the filter element is formed in a Reuleaux shape.

2. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the opening in the end cap is substantially circular.

3. The filter element according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the Reuleaux shape is an equilateral polygon with an odd number of sides having more edges than a triangle.

4. The filter element of claim 3, wherein the Reuleaux shape is a seven-sided Reuleaux shape having seven edges and seven vertices.

5. The filter element of claim 3, wherein the Reuleaux shape is a nine-sided Reuleaux shape having nine edges and nine vertices.

6. The filter element of claim 3, wherein the Reuleaux shape is a five-sided Reuleaux shape having five edges and five vertices.

7. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the media package is formed in a cylindrical shape.

8. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-7, further comprising a synchronization feature for ensuring that the filter element is installed in the correct rotational position.

9. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the media package is pleated.

10. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the through-hole opening has a larger diameter than the opening in the end cap and a different cross-sectional shape forming a stepped portion.

11. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the sealing member includes a sharp corner at each vertex of the Reuleaux shape.

12. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the sealing member comprises a curved edge at each vertex of the Reuleaux shape and a side edge between each curved edge.

13. The filter element of claim 12, wherein the ratio between the radius of at least one of the curved edges and the radius of at least one of the side edges is in the range of 0 to 0.

5.

14. The filter element according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein the base and the extension are integrally formed from a single material piece.

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