Filter element flow divider device, filter element and filter system with one filter element

Abstract

Filter element flow divider device (50) for generating a predetermined flow profile in an outflow-side media flow of a filter element, comprising a clean air chamber section (70), an outflow channel section (72) with an outflow channel cross-section (74) and a mass flow sensor (120), comprising at least two guide vane wall sections (52, 54) each with an inflow curvature region (76) which is connected to an outflow wall section (78), wherein the inflow curvature regions (76) of two guide vane wall sections (52, 54) are configured facing each other, and wherein the guide vane wall sections (52,54) in longitudinal section in a predetermined flow direction plane (26) from the clean air chamber section (70) to the mass sensor (120) each have a predetermined angle of attack (α) of a tangent (88) to the maximum point of curvature of the inlet curvature region (76) relative to the flow direction plane (26) and / or relative to at least one further guide vane wall section, wherein the guide vane wall sections (52, 54) are arranged in the clean air chamber section (70) and the outflow channel section (72) is arranged predetermined downstream of the clean air chamber section (70) and the mass flow sensor (120) is arranged downstream of the clean air chamber section (70) and / or the outflow channel section (72), wherein the mass flow sensor (120) is located directly behind the guide vane wall sections (52,54) is arranged or is spaced at a distance (82) of up to once the outflow channel cross-section (74) of the outflow channel section (72) from the outflow wall section (78).

Description

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a filter element, a filter system with a filter element and a filter element flow divider device. State of the art

[0002] Air mass sensors are typically installed in the intake tract of an internal combustion engine to detect the mass flow rate of the intake air. These sensors have tight tolerances regarding the airflow, particularly its velocity. The sensor is programmed for a specific velocity range. If the flow is disrupted, the mass flow rate will be recorded with an error, potentially leading to errors in the engine control unit and possibly an incorrect fuel / air ratio for combustion.

[0003] EP 1843035 A2 discloses a filter element for filtering air, in which a grid is arranged downstream of the filter element and upstream of the air mass sensor, which causes a low-turbulence, homogeneous flow of air from the downstream cross-section of the filter element to the mass flow sensor and has a flow-equalizing effect.

[0004] DE 10 2012 012 347 A1 discloses a filter device with a housing and a U-shaped filter element arranged therein, having two end discs and a hollow base arranged between them, connecting the two end discs, wherein the interior of the hollow base is located outside the cleanroom in the filter body and wherein the hollow base divides the outflow cross-section into two partial flows which superimpose downstream of the hollow base.

[0005] DE 10 2010 042 426 A1 discloses an air filter with a filter element, wherein the filter element has two parallel support struts in its outflow cross-section in one end disk, which divide the outflow-side media flow into three partial flows which then superimpose.

[0006] From DE 298 06 916 U1 an air filter is known with a filter element, wherein several ribs are arranged downstream of the filter element between the upper part of the housing and the lower part of the housing, which divide the outflowing media flow into several partial flow areas which subsequently overlap, wherein an air mass sensor is arranged further downstream.

[0007] DE 10 2014 014 007 A1 is directed towards creating a filter system for filtering a fluid that allows the acoustic properties induced and / or transmitted by the flowing fluid to be favorably influenced. For this purpose, DE 10 2014 014 007 A1 discloses a flow-through acoustic element arranged upstream of and / or downstream of a filter bellows along a fluid path, wherein the flow-through acoustic element effects a targeted acoustic influence on the fluid flow. DE 10 2014 014 007 A1 further discloses that an inner wall of a filter housing can advantageously be lined with a flow-through acoustic element made of an acoustically effective medium. The surfaces of the flow-through acoustic element can also have a three-dimensional shape in order to reduce or even eliminate standing waves or certain frequencies of the flowing fluid that occur during the operation of the filter element.Design a filter system. This can be simulated, for example, using standard model calculations to determine a favorable three-dimensional shape for a given system. Additionally, this eliminates the need for lambda / 4 tubes, Helmholtz resonators, or other acoustic measures typically used for noise reduction in air filter systems. Furthermore, the frequency band to be absorbed can be changed quickly and easily by modifying the three-dimensional shape of the acoustic element through which the air flows. The three-dimensional shape of the acoustic element through which the air flows also allows for the utilization of additional filtering capacity within the filter system.

[0008] DE 10 2007 056 852 A1 addresses the problem that only a relatively small portion of the air filter volume is actually permeated by intake air, and that this air still contains a relatively high amount of moisture even after passing through the air filter. In motor vehicles, this can lead to malfunctions and even engine failure, particularly when driving in the rain. Furthermore, it can result in power loss, premature filter replacement, and premature replacement of the mass airflow sensor.DE 10 2007 056 852 A1 is therefore directed to provide an air filter that ensures the reliable removal of foreign particles and water from process air, as well as a method for designing such an air filter and a method for its operation. It discloses an air filter with an air filter housing that encloses an air filter chamber with an ambient air volume and a clean air volume separated from the ambient air volume by a filter device. At least one inner surface of the air filter housing enclosing the ambient air volume has ribs. During operation of the air filter, air flows through the ambient air volume in a specific direction, and sections of the ribs are arranged parallel to this airflow direction and are curved.Simulation allows the design of the ribs to be optimized to fulfill two tasks simultaneously: on the one hand, the ribs stabilize and stiffen the air filter housing, and on the other hand, their shape and arrangement create a desired airflow within the air filter housing. Disclosure of the invention

[0009] One object of the invention is to provide a filter element flow divider device and a filter system comprising this device, wherein the filter element flow divider device allows for the simple adjustment of a desired characteristic curve, in particular a flow profile, especially an airflow profile, and wherein the filter element flow divider device allows the use of different types of filter elements in a filter system. The filter element flow divider device according to the invention allows, for example, the adaptation or targeted optimization of the flow velocity of a fluid to a predetermined flow profile. For example, the flow in a filter element or in a filter system can thus be adjusted to a flow specification at a predetermined measuring point. For example, a flow velocity can be adjusted. Another object of the invention is to provide a filter element for such a filter system.

[0010] The problem is solved by a filter element flow divider device, which is designed to generate a predetermined flow profile in an outflow-side media flow of a filter element, wherein the device comprises a clean air chamber section, an outflow channel section with a channel cross-section, optionally with a seal for sealing the outflow channel, and a mass flow sensor, wherein the filter element flow divider device includes at least one guide vane wall section with an inflow curvature region, which is particularly, and preferably continuously, connected to an outflow wall section, and wherein the guide vane wall section, in longitudinal section, has an angle of attack of a tangent to the maximum point of curvature of the inflow curvature region relative to the flow direction plane and / or relative to at least one further guide vane wall section in a predetermined flow direction plane from the clean air chamber section to the mass sensor.wherein the at least one guide vane wall section is arranged in the clean air chamber section and the outflow channel section, optionally with the seal, is arranged downstream of the clean air chamber section and the mass flow sensor is arranged downstream of the clean air chamber section and / or the outflow channel section, wherein the mass flow sensor is arranged directly behind the guide vane wall section or is spaced at a distance of up to once the channel cross-section of the outflow channel section from the outflow wall section, in particular from the end of the outflow wall section.

[0011] The filter element flow divider device comprises at least two guide vane wall sections, each having a predetermined angle of attack. Preferably, the inflow curvature region of the respective guide vane wall section initially narrows the inflow cross-section, with the flow cross-section between the guide vane wall sections subsequently widening in a predetermined manner. The transition is particularly continuous, and the respective inflow or flow cross-sectional area is particularly circular or elliptical at every point. The distance between the respective guide vane wall sections can be different or the same, and the angle of attack of the respective guide vane wall section can be different or the same with respect to the flow direction plane. The inflow cross-section and the flow cross-section can be intuitively described as having a convergent-divergent cross-sectional profile.The inlet area narrows in the region of the inlet curvature area of ​​the guide vane wall section.

[0012] The angle of attack can be an angle selected from a range of 0° to 90°, in particular from a range of 5° to 90°, in particular from a range of 0° to 60°, in particular from a range of 5° to 60°, in particular from a range of 0° to 45°, in particular from a range of 5° to 45°.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the filter element flow divider device has at least two guide vane wall sections which divide the media flow over a length, wherein the length corresponds to the length of the at least two guide vane wall sections, into at least three parallel partial flows, wherein the partial flows are guided separately over the length, in particular without superposition of the partial flows in the region of the length, and wherein the partial flows are recombined in a superposition region of the outflow channel.

[0014] According to the invention, at least two inflow curvature areas of the at least two guide vane wall sections are arranged facing each other.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the filter element flow divider device, the at least two guide vane wall sections are arranged symmetrically in a plane of symmetry, in particular mirror-symmetrically in the inflow direction or longitudinal section plane, relative to each other.

[0016] The guide vane wall section can, for example, be made of plastic.

[0017] The guide vane wall section can, for example, be a circularly symmetrical wall or a guide vane or rib.

[0018] Suitable mass flow sensors include, for example, flow sensors that determine the mass of air flowing through per unit of time, i.e., the mass flow rate. In automotive engineering, hot-film air mass meters (HFMs) are commonly used for this purpose.

[0019] The aforementioned problems are solved with a filter system according to claim 5. The filter system has a housing and a filter element arranged in a housing between a raw-side inlet and a clean-side outlet for filtering a media stream, wherein a flow divider device according to the invention is provided in the outflow-side media stream, which divides the outflow-side media stream over a predetermined first length into at least two separate partial streams, wherein under predetermined operating conditions a superposition area with a predetermined flow characteristic can be formed downstream of the flow divider device by superimposing the partial streams, and with a filter element.

[0020] Favorable embodiments and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the further claims, the description and the drawing.

[0021] According to a first aspect of the invention, a filter system is proposed with a filter element arranged in a housing between a raw-side inlet and a clean-side outlet for filtering a media stream, wherein a flow divider device is provided in the outflow-side media stream, which divides the outflow-side media stream over a predetermined first length into at least two separate partial streams, wherein under predetermined operating conditions a superposition area with a predetermined flow characteristic can be formed by superimposing the partial streams downstream of the flow divider device.

[0022] By splitting the media flow into partial flows that recombine after an initial distance, the flow velocity can be precisely controlled. The media flow can be locally accelerated or decelerated. Unlike a grid-like structure, the media flow is not homogenized at the filter element's outlet, but rather split into separate partial flows.

[0023] By separating the outflowing media stream, the flow characteristics of the outflowing media stream in the superposition zone can be shaped within wide limits. Advantageously, the flow divider device can be designed to achieve a desired flow characteristic in the superposition zone. The superposition zone can be located outside the filter element and outside the filter system.

[0024] The flow divider device leads to a local deceleration or acceleration of the fluid flow velocity without causing a significantly higher pressure loss. Additionally, the flow divider device alters the flow profile, resulting in a locally modified velocity distribution in the superposition region of a mass flow sensor, particularly along and / or perpendicular to the plane of symmetry of the filter element in the outflow region. This superposition region can be specifically limited to the immediate vicinity of the mass flow sensor, particularly the flow around the sensor. The design is preferably such that the change in the superposition region is such that the relationship between the flow velocity in the superposition region and the total air mass flow corresponds to the relationship for which an existing motor control system is designed.This allows different filter elements to be used in the same filter system without having to recalibrate the mass flow sensor.

[0025] The invention allows the use of various filter elements in the filter system. The potentially differing outflow characteristics of the various filter elements can be compensated for by the flow divider device, so that comparable flow characteristics are established in the superposition zone, regardless of the specific design of the individual filter element. Preferably, filter elements designed for the same total mass flow rate are used. However, this is not strictly necessary, as slightly differing designs only result in a slightly different pressure drop across the filter element or a slightly different service life. If a mass flow sensor is arranged in the superposition zone, it can reliably determine the existing mass flow rate, even if, for example, a different type of filter element, preferably with the same total mass flow rate, is installed during a filter change.By appropriately adjusting the flow divider device, the specified characteristic curve of the mass flow sensor can be maintained with sufficient accuracy by the medium flow at the location of the mass flow sensor.

[0026] The filter system is advantageously used for filtering gaseous media, for example as an air filter system for an internal combustion engine, in order to subject the combustion air supplied to the cylinders of the internal combustion engine to filtration.

[0027] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow characteristics can include at least a velocity profile and / or a flow velocity and / or a flow direction. In particular, the outflow characteristics of the respective filter element in the superposition region can be shaped by the design of the flow divider device and / or its position and / or its shape. This can advantageously be achieved by simulating the flow behavior of the respective filter element under the given operating conditions.

[0028] In a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can be at least partially integrated into the filter element. For example, the flow divider device can be connected to one or both end plates of the filter element. The flow divider device can thus be cast into one or both end plates or subsequently inserted into them.

[0029] In a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can be arranged at least partially downstream of the filter element. The flow divider device appropriate for the respective filter element can be installed in the filter system when the filter element is replaced.

[0030] Optionally, part of the flow divider device can be connected to the filter element, and part of the flow divider device can be located outside, on the downstream side of the filter system or in an intake nozzle connected on the downstream side. The overlapping area protrudes from the filter element and, if applicable, from the filter system.

[0031] According to a favorable embodiment, the superposition region can be provided as the immediate vicinity of a sensor, in particular a mass flow sensor, and especially as the flow area around the mass flow sensor. By appropriately designing the flow divider device, the flow characteristics of the medium flow can be adjusted so that the flow characteristics lie within the characteristic curve of the mass flow sensor and can thus be detected correctly.

[0032] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have at least one or more guide vanes. Preferably, at least a portion of these guide vanes can penetrate the outflow cross-section of the filter element from one side to the other; however, it may be sufficient if the guide vanes functionally project into the outflow cross-section, for example, penetrating at least 50%, preferably at least 80%, of the outflow cross-section at the location of the respective guide vane. The guide vanes can be straight and connected to one or more end plates.

[0033] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have at least one guide vane that is enclosed in a single unit parallel to a flow direction. This allows for a concentric and, if necessary, rotationally symmetrical division of the downstream media flow. This can be particularly advantageous for rotationally symmetrical filter elements.

[0034] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have at least two guide vanes. This allows three partial flows to be generated. In particular, the guide vanes can be arranged symmetrically to a line of symmetry of the outflow cross-section of the filter element. The guide vanes can advantageously be arranged as mirror images of each other.

[0035] According to a favorable design, the guide vanes can have a varying cross-section, at least in certain sections along their length. In particular, the cross-section can taper from its upstream side to its downstream side or vice versa. A wedge shape is advantageous for shaping the flow characteristics of the fluid and is easily demolded when manufactured using an injection molding process.

[0036] A method is described for providing a filter system and / or a filter element to be arranged in a housing of a filter system for filtering a media stream, wherein a sensor provided on the downstream side of the filter system, in particular a mass flow sensor, is exposed to the downstream media stream, comprising the steps (i) simulating a downstream behavior of the filter element with a flow divider device arranged in the downstream media stream, which divides the downstream media stream into at least two partial streams over a predetermined first length, and (ii) adjusting the flow divider device to achieve a desired flow characteristic in a superposition area of ​​the previously separated partial streams.

[0037] Optionally, the procedure can additionally include a step of determining a guide vane wall section geometry of at least one guide vane wall section with an inflow curvature region and an angle of attack relative to a flow direction plane and optionally an outflow region.

[0038] Optionally, the procedure can additionally include a step to determine a distance to a mass flow sensor, optionally depending on the outflow channel cross-section.

[0039] Optionally, the method can additionally include a step of aligning and / or arranging a guide vane wall section with the guide vane wall section geometry from the determination step of the guide vane wall section geometry in a clean air chamber section, predetermined for the guide vane wall section, downstream arrangement of an outflow channel section, optionally with a seal, and the mass flow sensor in a position according to the determination result of the determination step of the guide vane wall section geometry of the guide vane wall section to the flow divider device.

[0040] Advantageously, different types of filter elements, preferably with the same total mass flow rate, can be used in the same filter system or intake system without reducing the measurement accuracy of the mass flow sensor.

[0041] In a favorable configuration, a velocity profile and / or a flow velocity and / or a flow direction can be specified in the superposition region. This allows the flow characteristics of the media flow in the superposition region to be specifically adapted to the requirements of the mass flow sensor in order to achieve a desired output signal from the mass flow sensor based on its programming.

[0042] In a favorable design, the filter element can be varied in size and / or type. Preferably, filter elements with the same total mass flow rate are used. For each element, the most suitable flow divider device can be determined by simulation.

[0043] In a favorable design, a predefined output signal from the sensor can be used as an optimization criterion when adjusting the flow divider device and / or varying the filter element. This ensures the accuracy of the mass flow measurement.

[0044] According to a further aspect of the invention, a filter element with an outflow cross-section is proposed, which is intended for interchangeable use in a filter system and which is designed to interact with a flow divider device arranged on the outflow side. Preferably, a group of different filter elements can be provided for interchangeability, which can deliver the same mass flow rate of the medium.

[0045] In a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can be connected to one or more end discs of the filter element. If required, during the injection molding of the end discs, the flow divider device can be selectively incorporated into the injection-molded part or not by a simple modification of the mold head during the injection molding process.

[0046] In a favorable design, the flow divider device can be integrated with the filter element. This allows for a compact arrangement.

[0047] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have guide vanes or guide vane wall sections, at least a portion of which passes through an outflow cross-section of the filter element from one side to the other, in particular from one end plate to the other. This is easy to implement in terms of tooling, especially with a filter element having a U-shaped or V-shaped filter bellows or with a round filter bellows that is folded in a star shape and closed in an annular manner. In such a case of a round air filter element, the guide geometry can, for example, be attached to or integrally formed on the central tube that supports the filter bellows internally, or on the outflow-side, open end plate in the area of ​​the outlet opening, in particular opposite the closed end plate.

[0048] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have at least one guide vane or guide vane wall section that is self-contained. This advantageously allows for a concentric, optionally rotationally symmetrical arrangement. The self-contained guide vane or guide vane wall section can be attached to the filter element by struts or the like.

[0049] According to a favorable embodiment, the flow divider device can have at least two guide vanes or at least two guide vane wall sections. This allows the media flow to be separated into three partial flows. In particular, the guide vanes or the guide vane wall sections can be arranged symmetrically with respect to a line of symmetry of the outflow cross-section.

[0050] According to a favorable embodiment, the two guide vanes or guide vane wall sections can have a varying cross-section, at least in certain areas along the first length. In particular, the cross-section can taper from its upstream side to its downstream side. This results in a favorable wedge shape. With a closed guide vane or guide vane wall section, the wall thickness is correspondingly greater on the upstream side than on the downstream side.

[0051] It should be understood that the flow divider devices and guide vanes or guide vane wall sections or guide geometries described herein preferably do not have grid-like structures. Grid- or net-like structures lead downstream in the cross-sectional area of ​​these structures to a substantially homogenized flow velocity distribution, i.e., a uniform flow velocity distribution over the cross-section covered by the grids or nets, whereas according to the invention, the guide vanes, flow divider devices, or guide geometries locally cause a change in flow velocity which, compared to the situation without the respective guide vanes, flow dividers, or guide geometries, has a locally changing (accelerating or decelerating) effect, but does not homogenize or homogenize the flow over a larger cross-section.

[0052] Therefore, it is preferred that the guide vanes or guide vane wall sections, flow dividers, or guide geometries have no more than two, preferably no more than one, and preferably no intersecting elements such as intersecting guide vanes, guide ribs, or the like. The number of partial flow cross-sections enclosed, limited, and / or separated from one another by the flow-influencing elements, guide vanes, flow dividers, or guide geometries is further preferably less than 9, more preferably less than 6, and particularly preferably less than 4. Brief description of the drawings

[0053] Further advantages will become apparent from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. The drawings, description, and claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently consider the features individually and combine them into meaningful further combinations. The following are shown as examples: Fig. 1 Schematic sectional view of a filter element flow divider device according to a further embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 Schematic sectional view of a filter element flow divider device according to a further embodiment of the invention; Fig. 3 Schematic sectional view of a filter element flow divider device according to a further embodiment of the invention; Fig. 4 Schematic sectional view of a filter element flow divider device according to a further embodiment of the invention; Fig. 5 a sectional view of a filter system with a filter element and a mass flow sensor in an intake manifold according to an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 6 an isometric representation of the filter element made of Fig. 5 with two guide vanes of a flow divider device; Fig. Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the downstream area of ​​the filter element. Fig. 6 with two guide vanes of a flow divider device; Fig. 8 in sectional view a top view of the downstream area of ​​a filter element with a self-contained guide vane of a flow divider device according to a further embodiment of the invention; Fig. 9 a diagram of a velocity distribution in a superposition area with a filter system without a flow divider device; Fig. 10 a diagram of a velocity distribution in a superposition region according to an embodiment of the invention; and Fig. 11 a flowchart of a process according to an embodiment of the invention. Embodiments of the invention

[0054] In the figures, identical or similar components are numbered with the same reference symbols. The figures merely show examples and are not to be understood as limiting.

[0055] To explain the invention, we will show Fig. Figures 1 to 4 are schematic sectional views of a filter element flow divider device 50 according to several embodiments of the invention. The filter element flow divider device 50 is designed to generate a predetermined flow profile in an outflow-side media flow of a filter element and comprises a clean air chamber section 70, an outflow channel section 72 with a channel cross-section 74, and optionally with a seal 22 for sealing the outflow channel 72, and a mass flow sensor 120, comprising at least one guide vane wall section 52, 54 with an inflow curvature region 76, which is in particular, and preferably continuously, connected to an outflow wall section 78, and wherein the guide vane wall section 52,54 in longitudinal section in a predetermined flow direction plane 26 from the clean air chamber section 70 to the mass sensor 120 has an angle of attack α of a tangent 88 to the maximum point of curvature of the inlet curvature region 76 relative to the flow direction plane 26 and / or relative to at least one further guide vane wall section 52, 54, in which the clean air chamber section 70 is arranged and the outflow channel section 72, optionally with the seal 22, is arranged predetermined downstream of the clean air chamber section 70 and the mass flow sensor 120 is arranged downstream of the clean air chamber section 70 and / or the outflow channel section 72, wherein the mass flow sensor 120 is arranged directly behind the guide vane wall section 52, 54 or at a distance 82 of up to once the channel cross-section 74 of the outflow channel section 72 to the outflow wall section 78, in particular to the end of the The outflow wall section 78 is arranged at a distance.

[0056] The in Fig. The embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4 depict filter element flow divider devices 50, wherein the flow divider device 50, as an embodiment according to the invention, in particular comprises two guide vane wall sections 52, 54, and wherein the guide vane wall sections 52, 54 have a predetermined angle of attack α, and wherein the inflow curvature region 76 of the respective guide vane wall section 52, 54 initially narrows the inflow cross-section 84, and wherein the flow cross-section 86 between the guide vane wall sections 52, 54 subsequently widens in a predetermined manner, wherein the transition is in particular continuous, and wherein the respective inflow or flow cross-sectional area 84, 86 is in particular circular or elliptical at every point, and wherein the distance 82 of the respective guide vane wall section 52, 54 can be different or the same, and wherein the angle of attack α of the respective guide vane wall section 52, 54The at least two guide vane wall sections 52, 54 can be different from or the same as the flow direction plane 26. They can be arranged, for example, oppositely or symmetrically, in particular mirror-symmetrically, in the longitudinal section plane of the flow direction 26. At least two inflow curvature regions are arranged facing each other in the at least two guide vane wall sections.

[0057] The angle of attack α can be an angle selected from a range of 0° to 90°, in particular from a range of 5° to 90°, in particular from a range of 0° to 60°, in particular from a range of 5° to 60°, in particular from a range of 0° to 45°, in particular from a range of 5° to 45°.

[0058] The filter element flow divider device according to the in Fig. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 4, the device has in particular two guide vane wall sections 52, 54 which divide the media flow over a length 40, wherein the length 40 corresponds to the length of the at least two guide vane wall sections 52, 54, into at least three parallel partial flows 32, 34, 36, wherein the partial flows 32, 34, 36 are guided separately over the length 40, in particular without superposition of the partial flows 32, 34, 36 in the region of the length 40, and wherein the partial flows 32, 34, 36 are brought together again in a superposition region 44 of the outflow channel 72.

[0059] The details of the functioning of a filter element flow divider device 50 according to the invention in the flow-through situation are shown in an exemplary embodiment in a filter element 10 in Fig. 5 shown.

[0060] The filter element flow divider device 50 allows, by design, the simple adjustment of a desired characteristic curve, in particular a flow profile, especially an airflow profile, and thus permits the use of various filter elements in a filter system. The filter element flow divider device according to the invention thus allows, for example, the simple adjustment or targeted optimization of the flow velocity of a fluid to a predetermined flow profile. For example, the flow in a filter element or in a filter system can be adjusted to a flow specification at a predetermined measuring point. For example, a flow velocity can be adjusted.

[0061] To explain the invention, Fig. Figure 5 shows an embodiment of a filter system 100 with a filter element 10 arranged in a housing 102 between a raw-side inlet 104 and a clean-side outlet 106 for filtering a media flow, for example air in an intake tract, part of which of an intake nozzle 110 is visible. A mass flow sensor 120 is arranged in the intake nozzle 110, which determines the mass flow of the cleaned media flow.

[0062] A flow divider 50 is provided in the downstream media flow, which divides the downstream media flow over a predetermined first length 40 into at least two partial flows 32, 34, 36, whereby under predetermined operating conditions, a superposition zone 44 with a predetermined flow characteristic can be formed downstream of the flow divider 50 by superimposing the partial flows 32, 34, 36. The superposition zone 44 is indicated for simplicity by a circle and includes, in particular, the position of the mass flow sensor 120.

[0063] Filter element 10 is shown as an example of a U-shaped filter element. Other filter element geometries are optional, such as V-shaped filters, circular filters, flat filters, and the like.

[0064] The filter element 10 according to the exemplary embodiment has a U-shaped filter bellows 12 with a pleated filter material, in particular a pleated filter paper. The filter bellows 12 is typically traversed radially from the outside to the inside by the media stream to be filtered, so that the space between the two legs of the filter bellows 12 forms the clean space in which the filtered media stream is typically discharged axially, i.e., parallel to the legs.

[0065] The U-shaped filter bellows 12 is housed in a filter base or filter support body, which is expediently designed as a plastic component. The filter base of the filter element 10 has a receiving chamber for the filter bellows 12, the receiving chamber being expediently open on its radial outer side to allow unimpeded radial flow from the outside. Furthermore, in this design, the filter bellows 12 can be inserted into the receiving chamber from the outside inwards along the longitudinal axis of the base body 30 during assembly.

[0066] The filter bellows 12 is folded in a zigzag pattern, with the folds located on the legs of the filter bellows 12 extending approximately radially, i.e., transversely to the longitudinal axis of the base body 30, or forming a small angle with the transverse direction. Each fold has an upper and lower end edge that is oriented accordingly transversely to the longitudinal axis. In the region of the connecting arc between the two legs of the U-shaped filter bellows 12, the individual folds or the end edges of the folds have a different angular position relative to the longitudinal axis, whereby folds lying in the axial direction and located in the region of the base of the U-shape are aligned at least approximately parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0067] A sealing element in the form of an end plate 14, 16 is arranged at each of the end edges of the pleats of the filter bellows 12, the sealant of which is bonded to the end edges. The end plates 14, 16 are also connected to the base body 30. The end plates 14, 16 provide a flow-tight seal at the end edges, thus preventing air leakage between the raw side and the clean side of the filter bellows 12. Furthermore, the filter bellows 12 is securely and firmly held to the base body 30 by the sealing element at the end plates 14, 16. This eliminates the need for any other measures to connect the filter bellows 12 to the base body 30.

[0068] The receiving space on the base body 30, in which the filter bellows 12 is received, advantageously has at least one support element 18, for example in the form of a tie rod, in the region of the end faces of the filter bellows 12, by means of which it is additionally held in the receiving space on the base body 30. The end plates 14, 16 are connected to this support element 18, so that the connection between the filter bellows 12 and the base body 30 is made via the end plates 14, 16 and further via the support element 18, which is arranged on the base body 30.

[0069] The U-shaped filter bellows 12 is surrounded on the outside by a fleece 28 as a pre-separator. Raw air flows in through the inlet 104 of the housing 102 and flows through the filter bellows 12 from the outside to the inside, exiting the housing 102 through the outlet 106. The housing 102 is connected to the intake port 110 by a connecting piece 20 and sealed against the outside of the intake port 20 by a sealing ring 22.

[0070] The flow divider 50 does not consist of a grid or a cross, which would homogenize the flow of the medium, but, in this example, of two guide vanes 52, 54 arranged symmetrically to a plane of symmetry 26, which thus represent an embodiment of a guide vane wall section 52, 54. The guide vanes 52, 54 are oriented symmetrically to the plane of flow direction 26 of the U-shaped filter element 10. To ensure proper functioning, it is advantageous if the minimum distance between the guide vanes 52, 54 is approximately 8 mm and the maximum distance is approximately 30 mm. The flow divider 50 allows the flow of the medium to be selectively divided, so that a local reduction in flow velocity is achieved at a further distance downstream of the flow divider 50.

[0071] The flow divider 50 reduces the flow velocity without causing a significantly higher pressure loss. Additionally, the guide vanes 52, 54 alter the flow profile, resulting in a more uniform velocity distribution locally in the area of ​​the mass flow sensor 120, both along and across the plane of symmetry of the U-shaped filter element 10 in the outflow region. However, this uniform distribution is primarily achieved upstream of the mass flow sensor 120, and not across the entire outflow region of the fluid flow.

[0072] The flow divider 50 allows the flow in the immediate vicinity, particularly around the mass flow sensor 120, to be precisely controlled. The guide vanes 52, 54 of the flow divider 50 can be arranged to divide the flow and thereby reduce its velocity in the immediate vicinity of the mass flow sensor 120. Depending on the application, the flow divider 50 can also focus the flow in the immediate vicinity of the mass flow sensor 120 and accelerate it.

[0073] Fig. Figure 6 shows an isometric representation of the in Fig. 5 described filter elements 10 from Fig. 5 with the two guide vanes 52, 54 of the flow divider device 50. These are visible through the connection nozzle 20 of the filter element 10. The guide vanes 52, 54 extend from the upper end disk 14 to the lower end disk 16 of the filter element 10 and are, in particular, manufactured in one piece with the end disks 14, 16. The cross-section at the beginning of the connection nozzle 20 at the downstream end of the guide vanes 52, 54 forms the outflow cross-section 24 of the filter element 10.

[0074] Fig. Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the downstream area of ​​the filter element 10. Fig. 6 with two guide vanes 52, 54 of the flow divider device 50. The two guide vanes 52, 54 are arranged symmetrically to the flow direction plane 26 of the filter element 10 and have a wedge-shaped cross-section, with the upstream sides 62 being thicker than the downstream sides 64. In the inner area between the guide vanes 52, 54, the cross-section is slightly conical and opens towards the downstream cross-section 24.

[0075] The two guide vanes 52, 54 divide the media flow into preferably three parallel partial flows 32, 34, 36, which are guided separately over the first length 40, corresponding to the length of the guide vanes 52, 54 in the outflow direction, and which superimpose again downstream of the flow divider 50. The flow divider 50 selectively adjusts the outflow characteristics of the outflowing media flow in the superposition area 44. The superposition area 44 includes, in particular, the position of the mass flow sensor 120 and its immediate vicinity 122, which is essential for measuring the mass flow.

[0076] Fig. Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the downstream region of a filter element 10 with a guide vane 56 of a flow divider device 50 parallel to the flow direction, according to a further embodiment of the invention. The filter element 10 is as shown in Fig. 7, while the flow divider device 50 is formed by a self-contained guide vane 56. This divides the media flow into two partial flows 32, 34, which flow off concentrically. The wall thickness of the guide vane 56 is wedge-shaped in cross-section and tapers from the upstream side 62 to the downstream side 64.

[0077] Fig. 9 and Fig. Figure 10 shows diagrams of a velocity distribution in a superposition region perpendicular to the flow direction, wherein Fig. 9 the diagram for a filter system without a flow divider device and Fig. 10 the diagram for a filter system with flow divider device accordingly Fig. Figure 7 shows three partial flows. On the vertical axis, the velocity at the location of the mass flow sensor is 120 ( Fig. 7) plotted against the parameter x, which is in Fig. 7 as the diameter of the flow channel in the intake manifold 110 ( Fig. 5) is specified.

[0078] While without a flow divider device ( Fig. 9) the velocity at the location of the mass flow sensor 120 has a maximum, is under the same simulation conditions with the flow divider device ( Fig. 10) the speed there is significantly lower and more homogeneous on average.

[0079] Fig. Figure 11 shows a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment of the invention, which in conjunction with Fig. 5 is described. The method for providing a filter element flow divider device 50 and / or a filter system 100 and / or a filter element 10 to be arranged in a housing 102 of a filter system 100 for filtering a media flow, wherein a sensor 120, in particular a mass flow sensor, provided on the downstream side of the filter system 100 in the housing 102, is exposed to the downstream media flow, comprises the steps: S100: Simulating the outflow behavior of the filter element 10 with a flow divider device 50 arranged in the outflow-side media flow, which divides the outflow-side media flow over a predetermined first length 40 into at least two partial flows 32, 34, 36, and S104: Adjusting the flow divider device 50 to achieve a desired flow characteristic in a superposition area 44 of the previously separated partial flows 32, 34, 36.

[0080] In step S102, between steps S100 and S102, it is checked whether the simulation yields a result that is compatible with the characteristic curve of the mass flow sensor 120. If the result is not compatible, the flow divider device 50 is varied and step S100 is repeated.

[0081] If the result is compatible with the characteristic curve of the mass flow sensor 120, the flow divider device 50 is output in step S104 as a suitable flow divider device 50 for the given filter element 10.

[0082] In step S100, a velocity profile and / or a flow velocity and / or a flow direction in the superposition area can be specified for the simulation.

[0083] This can be done for different types of filter elements 10, which are varied in size and / or type. Preferably, these have the same total volume flow rate when varied.

[0084] Advantageously, a predefined output signal of the mass flow sensor 120 can be used as an optimization criterion when adapting the flow divider device 50 and / or varying the filter element 10.

[0085] Optionally, the procedure can additionally include a step S106 of determining a guide vane wall section geometry of at least one guide vane wall section 52, 54 with an inflow curvature region 76 and an angle of attack relative to a flow direction plane 26 and optionally an outflow region 78.

[0086] Optionally, the procedure can additionally include step S108 of determining a distance 82 to a mass flow sensor 120, optionally depending on the outflow channel cross-section 74.

[0087] Optionally, the method can additionally include step S110 of aligning and / or arranging a guide vane wall section 52, 54 with the guide vane wall section geometry from the determination step of the guide vane wall section geometry in a clean air chamber section 70, predefined for the guide vane wall section 52, 54, downstream arrangement of an outflow channel section 74, optionally with a seal 22, and the mass flow sensor 120 in a position according to the determination result of the determination step of the guide vane wall section geometry of the guide vane wall section 52, 54 to the flow divider device 50.

Claims

[1] Filter element flow divider device (50) for generating a predetermined flow profile in an outflow-side media flow of a filter element, comprising a clean air chamber section (70), an outflow channel section (72) with an outflow channel cross-section (74) and a mass flow sensor (120), comprising at least two guide vane wall sections (52, 54) each with an inflow curvature region (76) which is connected to an outflow wall section (78), wherein the inflow curvature regions (76) of two guide vane wall sections (52, 54) are configured facing each other, and wherein the guide vane wall sections (52,54) in longitudinal section in a predetermined flow direction plane (26) from the clean air chamber section (70) to the mass sensor (120) each have a predetermined angle of attack (α) of a tangent (88) to the maximum point of curvature of the inlet curvature region (76) relative to the flow direction plane (26) and / or relative to at least one further guide vane wall section, wherein the guide vane wall sections (52, 54) are arranged in the clean air chamber section (70) and the outflow channel section (72) is arranged predetermined downstream of the clean air chamber section (70) and the mass flow sensor (120) is arranged downstream of the clean air chamber section (70) and / or the outflow channel section (72), wherein the mass flow sensor (120) is located directly behind the guide vane wall sections (52,54) is arranged or is spaced at a distance (82) of up to once the outflow channel cross-section (74) of the outflow channel section (72) from the outflow wall section (78). [2] Filter element flow divider device (50) according to claim 1, wherein the inflow curvature region (76) of the respective guide vane wall section (52, 54) initially narrows the inflow cross-section (84) and wherein the flow cross-section (86) between the guide vane wall sections (52, 54) subsequently widens in a predetermined manner, wherein the transition between the narrowing inflow cross-section (84) and the widening flow cross-section (86) is continuous and wherein the respective inflow or flow cross-sectional area (84, 86) is circular or elliptical, and wherein the distance (82) of the respective guide vane wall section (52, 54) can be different or the same and wherein the angle of attack (α) of the respective guide vane wall section (52, 54) can be different or the same with respect to the flow direction plane (26). [3] Filter element flow divider device (50) according to claim 2, wherein the at least two guide vane wall sections (52, 54) divide the media flow over a length (40), wherein the length (40) corresponds to the length of the at least two guide vane wall sections (52, 54), into at least three parallel partial flows (32, 34, 36), wherein the partial flows (32, 34, 36) are guided separately over the length (40), in particular without superposition of the partial flows (32, 34, 36) in the region of the length (40), and wherein the partial flows (32, 34, 36) are recombined in a superposition region (44) of the outflow channel (72). [4] Filter element flow divider device (50) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the outflow channel section (72) has a seal (22) for sealing the outflow channel (72). [5] Filter system (100) with a filter element (10) arranged in a housing (102) between a raw-side inlet (104) and a clean-side outlet (106) for filtering a media stream, wherein a flow divider device (50) according to one of claims 1 to 4 is arranged in the outflow-side media stream, which divides the outflow-side media stream over a predetermined first length (40) into at least two partial streams (32, 34, 36), wherein under predetermined operating conditions a superposition area (44) with a predetermined flow characteristic can be formed downstream of the flow divider device (50) by superposition of the partial streams (32, 34, 36). [6] Filter system according to claim 5, wherein the flow characteristic comprises at least a velocity profile and / or a flow velocity and / or a flow direction. [7] Filter system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the flow divider device (50) is at least partially integrated in the filter element (10). [8] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow divider device (50) is arranged at least partially downstream of the filter element (10). [9] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the superposition area (44) is provided as the near area (122) of a sensor (120), in particular a mass flow sensor, in particular as the flow area around the mass flow sensor. [10] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow divider device (50) has at least one guide vane (56) or guide vanes (52, 54), at least one part of which passes through an outflow cross-section (24) of the filter element (10) from one side to the other. [11] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow divider device (50) has at least one guide vane (56) which is enclosed in itself parallel to a flow direction. [12] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow divider device (50) has at least two guide vanes (52, 54, 56). [13] Filter system according to claim 12, wherein the guide vanes (52, 54, 56) are arranged symmetrically to a flow direction plane (26) of the outflow cross-section (24) of the filter element (10). [14] Filter system according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guide vanes (52, 54) have a varying cross-section at least in certain areas along the first length (40). [15] Filter system according to claim 14, wherein the cross-section tapers from its upstream side (62) to its downstream side (64) or from its downstream side (64) to its upstream side (62). [16] Filter element (10) with an outflow cross-section (24) and with a flow divider device (50) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the flow divider device (50) is connected to one or more end disks (14, 16) of the filter element (10), and wherein the filter element (10) is provided for interchangeable use in a filter system (100) and is designed to cooperate with the outflow-side flow divider device (50). [17] Filter element according to claim 16, wherein the flow divider device (50) is integrated into the filter element (10). [18] Filter element according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the flow divider device (50) has guide vanes (52, 54) of which at least a part passes through an outflow cross-section (24) of the filter element (10) from one side to the other, in particular from one end disk (14) to the other end disk (16). [19] Filter element according to claims 16 to 18, wherein the flow divider device (50) has at least one guide vane (56) which is enclosed parallel to a flow direction. [20] Filter element according to claims 16 to 18, wherein the flow divider device (50) has at least two guide vanes (52, 54, 56). [21] Filter element according to claim 20, wherein the guide vanes (52, 54, 56) are arranged symmetrically to a flow direction plane (26) of the outflow cross-section (24). [22] Filter element according to one of claims 16 to 21, wherein the two guide vanes (52, 54) have a varying cross-section at least in certain areas along the first length (40). [23] Filter element according to claim 22, wherein the cross-section tapers from its upstream side (62) to its downstream side (64) or from its downstream side (64) to the upstream side (62).

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