Filter cartridge with decentralized stopper and filter for filtering a liquid from an internal combustion engine using the cartridge

Description

technical field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the purification of liquids, and in particular the oil used in internal combustion engines of motor vehicles. More specifically, according to the invention, it relates to a filter for purifying combustion engine fluid, in particular lubricating oil, comprising: a filter housing which has an inlet for raw liquid and an outlet for purified liquid, the housing defining an internal space to house a filter cartridge and having a bottom with a discharge channel separate from the inlet and outlet; a filter cartridge adapted to be housed removably in the internal space of the housing.

[0002] The invention also relates to the filter cartridge, having a structure adapted to cooperate in this type of filter, by allowing the discharge channel, which is typically off-center, to be blocked. Technological background

[0003] In motor vehicles, such as automobiles, maintenance operations on the lubrication system or other fluid circuits can be a source of error. Using filter cartridges allows for the reuse of a filter housing, reducing the amount of material replaced and minimizing environmental impact. For the type of filter mentioned above, the use of an offset discharge channel can prevent the accidental installation of an unsuitable cartridge, which is not equivalent to the one originally installed in the vehicle. However, installing the cartridge can be challenging, particularly in ensuring correct cartridge positioning and effective sealing of the offset discharge channel, which is separate from a filtered fluid outlet also located at the bottom of the filter.

[0004] In this type of filter, the cartridge typically includes: an annular filter medium extending around a central axis; a flange having an annular radial portion and having a first face on a first side where the filter medium is disposed and a second face on a second side opposite to the first side along the direction of the central axis; and a plug, preferably parallel to the central axis, projecting from the second side relative to the flange eccentrically at a first distance from the central axis, the plug having a sealing element or portion to hermetically seal an opening in the discharge channel.

[0005] This type of off-center drain channel filter (commonly called a drain channel) located near a side wall of the housing is known, for example, from document EP 1 229 985 or document EP 2490786. To correctly mount the filter cartridge in the housing, it is necessary to achieve the correct angular position of the cartridge relative to the bottom of the housing, which has a beveled protruding tube, using an internal lug guide on the annular upper edge of the protruding tube, before finally pushing the cartridge down towards the bottom, typically by screwing on the housing cover.

[0006] The cartridge described in document EP 2490786 is considered simple in design and features a small internal radial lug that contributes to the cartridge's rotational guidance. This guidance is comprised of two parts: first, a guide against a rigid metal ramp shaped like the inclined end edge of a tube, and second, a longitudinal guide formed within a slot in this tube. The longitudinal guide coincides with the insertion of the plug into the channel, thus preventing mechanical stress on the plug during assembly.

[0007] One drawback of this design is that the tab, typically made of plastic, can be weakened by the initial contact with the metal edge. If it breaks, the guiding advantage is lost, and the cartridge may be misaligned. This also results in plastic debris being present on the clean side of the filter. The robustness of this type of assembly can depend on the choice of a specific material, such as fiber reinforcement, but in such cases, recycling this composite material is either impossible or extremely difficult.

[0008] There is therefore a need for an alternative and reliable solution for assembling a filter cartridge with an off-center cap in a corresponding housing which allows, with minimal handling by the user, for the discharge channel to be securely sealed. Summary

[0009] For this purpose, a filter cartridge is proposed for filtering an internal combustion engine fluid (e.g., a lubricant or fuel), in a filter having an outlet channel offset to one side relative to an access port (belonging to / corresponding, in a filter base, to an inlet for raw fluid or an outlet for purified fluid), the cartridge comprising an annular filter medium allowing the purification of said fluid by extending around a central axis, an internal hollow space delimited by the filter medium opening axially through / via an axial orifice of the cartridge, the cartridge comprising: a flange comprising the axial orifice and a radial portion of annular shape around this orifice (the medium being able to be supported by the radial portion by being axially fixed to an internal framework, fixed in the hollow internal space and provided with a longitudinal guide, the internal framework being able to be attached, for example clipped to the flange;an element such as a slide, preferably tubular in shape, extending longitudinally in the hollow internal space while engaged on the longitudinal guide with an anti-rotation effect, the element having an axially contacting end opposite the axial orifice and adapted for contact with a protruding tube (for liquid flow) provided in the access port, the contacting end extending asymmetrically around the central / longitudinal axis to present an inclination with a first edge portion extending comparatively closer to the flange than a second edge portion; at least one stop surface to axially retain the element, preventing it from leaving the hollow internal space through the axial orifice; a pre-stressing means; and a plug, preferably parallel to the central axis, projecting opposite the medium from the flange, to allow a leak-tight closure of an opening in the discharge channel;and in which the element is arranged to move within the hollow internal space to move linearly along the guide, following the direction of the central axis: from a first position, with the element abutting or axially proximal to at least one stopping surface provided on the guide, to a second position comparatively further from the flange, in which the element is disengaged or axially distal to at least one stopping surface, the angular indexing element being able to move away from the flange by overcoming a restoring force from the prestressing means acting on said element.

[0010] Thanks to this arrangement with a movable (slider-type) element inside the cartridge, which is asymmetrical, it is possible to engage a protruding tube included in a part of the cartridge support. The cartridge's insertion depth, relative to the support / housing, depends on the cartridge's angular orientation. This allows the off-center plug to be correctly positioned in relation to the channel before the cartridge is further inserted, while the internal space can communicate smoothly, possibly with an annular seal formed by the cartridge with the port forming the filter's inlet or outlet. For example, the cartridge can be rotated and inserted onto the protruding tube until an orientation is achieved that: no longer allows additional sliding of the protruding tube on one edge of the contact end towards the second edge portion; and constitutes the only angular position for which the plug is exactly opposite the drainage channel to be sealed. A complementary shape can be used to facilitate this sliding motion until the protruding tube engages directly with the contact end. It is understood that this element is an angular indexing element integrated into the cartridge. This element forms a gripping surface on the protruding tube, located in the bottom of the housing.

[0011] Typically, the first position allows for direct engagement between the contact end and the protruding tube, achieved within the internal hollow space. The second position, which maintains this direct engagement, can be achieved by mounting a filter cover and / or by pushing the cartridge further into its holder, which is equivalent to inserting the protruding tube further into the cartridge's internal hollow space. Failure to achieve the first position will prevent cartridge installation, as the plug will typically be blocked by a surface on the bottom of the bowl and unable to be pushed in any further.Conversely, obtaining the first position makes the insertion of the cap secure when moving from the first to the second position, without the indexing element, which is mobile so that it can move backward while being of robust / rigid design for contact with the protruding tube, opposing the relative axial movement / approach of the cartridge with respect to its support.

[0012] The asymmetrical arrangement (no rotational symmetry around the central axis) of the contact end and the offset (also asymmetrical) position of the plug complement each other advantageously to allow rotational indexing of the cartridge as soon as the contact end engages with complementary shape (for example, complementary inclined / sloping profile) between the contact end and a complementary edge of the protruding tube (which is typically beveled or having a sloping profile complementary to the edge, preferably annular, formed at the contact end).

[0013] The indexing element's mobility is only permitted beyond a certain axial force / thrust threshold, due to the action of a constraint / preload means, for example, pushing the indexing element against the stop surface(s). With the cartridge adapted to the support, the indexing element can easily avoid jamming in an incorrect angular position (by allowing sliding with induced rotation), making assembly intuitive and providing a keying effect. Conversely, in preferred embodiments, if the cartridge is not correctly fitted, the lack of indexing will prevent assembly.Furthermore, if the aforementioned cartridge is used with another type of support, for example the classic cylindrical type to form the outlet, then the insertion of this classic type of tube will not go as far as with the protruding tube of the correct support, and the closure of the lid will not be permitted.

[0014] In one particular design, the contact end is configured to form an anti-rotation mechanism, preventing relative rotation between the cartridge and the filter base. The protruding tube also has an incline, creating a free edge with a profile substantially complementary to that of the contact end. Naturally, this anti-rotation effect is then used for inserting the plug (no relative rotation occurs between the cartridge and the support, including the protruding tube), whereas achieving initial engagement between the contact end and the protruding tube typically involves rotating the cartridge (unless the cartridge is correctly positioned on the first attempt).

[0015] In one embodiment, the inclination in the contact end extends over a height H1, called the slope height, which satisfies the following relationship with respect to a height H2 of the plug defined from the flange: 0 , 88 ≤ H 2 / H 1 ≤ 1,01 (of course these heights are measured along the direction of the central / longitudinal axis, typically perpendicular to the flange).

[0016] A gripping configuration between the contact end and the protruding tube can be achieved, with the anti-rotation effect, before the indexing element retracts, and therefore before the plug enters the discharge channel to seal it. The aforementioned dimensioning can optimize the height of the protruding tube and the stroke required for cartridge placement.

[0017] The element for gripping the protruding tube is tubular, with the contact end (6c) allowing for butt-to-butt contact (with the protruding tube) in the form of an inclined interface zone (between two tubes). Liquid can flow between the respective hollows of the butted tubes.

[0018] The internal frame / structure, with its angular indexing element, allows for a compact cartridge equipped with a keying system. This system, by indexing the rotating cartridge, correctly positions the drain plug facing the drain channel and also absorbs torque during cartridge installation (the plug does not need to bear axially against the base during rotation). When the cartridge is in the pushed-in position and the indexing element (forming an internal keying feature) is retracted, the plug enters the drain channel.

[0019] In preferred configurations, when screwing or unscrewing the cover to which the cartridge is attached, the protruding tube bears against the complementary shape (with an inclined profile) at the contact end of the indexing element, transmitting the torque. The cap is therefore not subjected to any stress, which typically prevents deformation of the sealing elements and avoids cap breakage.

[0020] In one embodiment, the angular indexing element includes a rigid portion having a lateral outer face with two guide ridges formed on the lateral outer face and engaged with two longitudinally elongated ridges belonging to the longitudinal guide, the contact end being formed in the rigid portion. It is understood that the guide is a guiding structure that can be distributed in several regions of the frame, including, for example, rails parallel to the central axis.

[0021] According to one particular feature, the contact end can be divided into two halves, preferably symmetrical to each other with respect to a plane passing through the central axis, which is a plane of symmetry of the filter media. Typically, the first edge portion and the second edge portion are each distributed in the two halves, the second edge portion being a portion of the contact end distal to the flange.

[0022] The internal framework may include a piece (monobloc) provided with the guide and a spacer element, for example in the form of a cross, capable of forming an axial stop for an elastic return element compressed between the axial stop and the angular indexing element which is itself axially engaged against the stopping surface(s).

[0023] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented, independently of each other or in combination with each other: The stopping surfaces comprise two surfaces or ribs distributed along two longitudinal reliefs, which are radially projecting inward from the rest of the internal frame to engage in corresponding / complementary grooves provided on the outer lateral face of the rigid part of the angular indexing element. At least two stopping surfaces are provided, offset on either side of the first edge portion. The stopping surfaces are formed as internal radial projections on rails that fit into longitudinal grooves in the rigid, tubular part of the rotating indexing element. A portion of the outer lateral face, delimited by the first edge portion, is located closer to the flange than the second edge portion. The internal frame, preferably rigid, is tubular and perforated.The internal frame supports the filter media on its inner surface. This internal frame extends longitudinally from one flange to another flange belonging to the cartridge, to which the filter media is attached (the media extending longitudinally between these two flanges). The media defines an upstream zone for raw liquid on its outer lateral face and a downstream zone for clean liquid on its inner lateral face. The plug incorporates a sealing element or portion to hermetically seal an opening in the discharge channel. The rigid part of the angular indexing element is translationally fixed, along the central axis, to a movable end of an elastic return element, preferably in the form of an axially compressible element.The filter cartridge is designed to discharge the purified liquid into the internal hollow space defined by the filter media, via the axial orifice (selectively via this orifice), which constitutes an outlet (typically a single outlet) of the cartridge. A sealing element, for example, in the form of a lip belonging to a part forming the flange or in the form of an added annular seal, is positioned at the axial orifice. The sealing element provides a hermetic seal between the upstream area (upstream of the filter media), which typically corresponds to a peripheral space, and the downstream area, which includes the internal hollow space. This occurs when the cartridge is assembled with the protruding tube, having a portion of the tube's external surface in annular (radial) contact with the sealing element.The hollow internal space delimited by the filter media is a circulation space for liquid filtered by the filter media, the axial orifice being an outlet orifice of the cartridge, preferably having a circular delimitation. An elastically deformable annular sealing portion is provided on an annular insertion portion of the flange, in order to delimit a local minimum for the passage cross-section through the flange and to allow for a radial annular sealing contact against an annular portion of the protruding tube (on its external surface) inserted into the hollow internal space via the axial orifice.within the hollow internal space is provided a compressible elastically deformable element capable of applying a default load, preferably by longitudinal thrust, to the angular indexing element against at least one stopping surface, so that the indexing element is by default in a low / proximal position relative to the flange, which corresponds to said first position.

[0024] Regardless of whether or not an elastic return element is used in the hollow internal space, it is understood that the angular indexing element forms a slide, mounted to move freely so that it can be pushed by a preload system (or any constraint system), for example, a spring. Beyond a force threshold that overcomes the return force or preload, the indexing element can retract within the internal space (thus moving up on the opposite side of the flange fitted with the plug).

[0025] In some embodiments, the geometry with the inclined edge of the contact end only allows such a threshold to be reached / exceeded if the protruding tube no longer slides along the edge forming a ramp / inclined surface. An operator mounting the cartridge in a bowl equipped with the protruding tube can thus adjust the angular position of the cartridge because, in the event of an initial incorrect orientation, the contact end cannot transfer thrust and therefore cannot retract. This adjustment can be intuitive for the operator, given that the rotation is induced by the sliding: a thrusting action with a significantly offset angular orientation (for example, a difference of more than 60°) will be accompanied by a guided rotation towards the correct orientation.

[0026] In some options, the angular indexing element is capable of moving away from the flange by overcoming a restoring force from a prestressing means acting on the angular indexing element. Structurally, the contact end can form the end of an axial tubular part with a gradual inclination in at least two sloping regions adjacent to the first edge portion and distributed on either side of the first edge portion.

[0027] Combining a sliding function with no possibility of rotation, a guiding function that shifts the top of the protruding tube to a target side via the tilt of the angular indexing element, and a return mechanism for this element to its lower position allows for a robust and compact cartridge. Significant displacement / recoil of the angular indexing element (overcoming the preload exerted by the preloading mechanism) can be prevented as long as there is no effective grip on the edge of the contacting tube end, particularly when there is still a possibility of slippage along sloping areas.

[0028] A tubular structure of the indexing element, in particular with an open structure at both ends of the angular indexing element, is advantageously compatible with a circulation of liquid between the inner face of the filter medium through which this liquid passes and the axial orifice, without generating pressure loss since fluid in axial circulation can just as easily bypass the indexing element as pass through it axially.

[0029] The prestressing means may have a first fixed end within the cartridge, extending longitudinally into the internal hollow space between a strut of the internal frame against which the first end rests and a transverse member carried by the angular indexing element. Optionally, the transverse member extends transversely, for example, perpendicular to the central axis, within the axial tubular part. This transverse member is engaged by a second movable end of the prestressing means, such that the transverse member is able to push the second movable end towards the first end. This can be equivalent to the compression of a spring.This can also correspond to the compression of an elastically compressible / deformable substrate interposed between the first end and the second end of the prestressing means or to the approach / contraction of an arrangement with two magnetic elements exerting an axial force of repulsion between them.

[0030] The prestressing means can be made in one piece, in the form of an elastic return element, for example a helical spring including the first and second ends. In one embodiment, the angular indexing element and the elastic return means are formed in one piece, molded from plastic material, for example by injection molding.

[0031] According to one particular feature, the contact end is a beveled tube end, preferably with an angle of inclination between 20 and 70°. A straight cut to achieve the inclination can facilitate the sliding of the protruding tube, which is also beveled, towards the maximum overlapping position.

[0032] In another aspect, a filter is proposed for purifying combustion engine fluid, the filter comprising: a filter housing which has an inlet for raw liquid and an outlet for purified liquid, the housing defining an internal volume and having a bottom with an evacuation channel separate from the inlet and outlet; a cover to prevent access to the internal volume and removably attached to a bowl of the housing surrounding the internal volume; a protruding tube provided in an access port to the outlet, the protruding tube being a fixed part integral with the bowl; the filter cartridge as previously described, removably housed in the internal volume of the housing with the protruding tube inserted into the hollow internal space by engaging the contact end of the rotating indexing element, following an engagement allowing the rotating filter cartridge to be indexed around the central axis relative to the housing.

[0033] The protruding tube is traversed by the central axis and resists relative rotational movement around the central axis between the cartridge and the bowl, in a gripping configuration where the protruding tube and the contact end overlap due to complementary shapes. The filter thus features a cartridge with contact between two robust parts for rotational indexing, with engagement achieved through complementary sloping contact regions.

[0034] It is understood that, during cartridge installation, the contact end forms a pre-fixing region. Considering that the housing bowl is fixed, for example, already mounted in a vehicle (stationary in a garage), the sliding design of the annular indexing element allows the cartridge to continue moving for cap engagement without changing the position of the rigid part of the indexing element, including the contact end. Thus, the final assembly (from pre-fixing to securing in the final mounting position) corresponds to purely axial movement along the central axis of the entire filter cartridge assembly, with the exception of the indexing element, which is already engaged with the protruding tube.

[0035] The gripping configuration can advantageously be achieved before the plug enters the drainage channel to seal it. In this way, the plug can be kept away from the bottom of the bowl where the drainage channel opening is formed, until the correct angular position is achieved, i.e., until the protruding tube has completely slid over the sloping edge portions of the contact end to occupy the gripping configuration that no longer allows relative movement between the contact end and the corresponding edge of the protruding tube.

[0036] In one particular design, the bowl forms the base of the housing and has a mounting bracket. The flange cooperates with this bracket to coaxially position the filter cartridge on a rigid conduit within the bracket, which forms the access port. The protruding tube is located at one end of this conduit. The lid can optionally be adapted to be screwed onto the bowl by incorporating a fastening element to engage with the filter cartridge. This fastening element may, for example, include an insertion portion within the internal space that allows relative rotation of the lid with respect to the filter cartridge when the lid is screwed on (with a lid-cartridge connection). As a non-limiting example, such a fastening element may include a drive portion that allows relative rotation between the lid and the filter cartridge when the lid, to which the filter cartridge is attached, is screwed on.This relative rotation can only take place after obtaining the gripping configuration between the contact end and the protruding tube which immobilizes the angular indexing element; the cover continues its screwing movement and this movement is converted into a push by the fixing member and / or by axial contact surfaces cover - cartridge.

[0037] According to another peculiarity, the internal space communicates in a sealed manner with one of the inlet and outlet by the axial passage / orifice through the flange when the latter cooperates with the support of the bowl, the filter media extending between the flange and another annular flange crossed by the lid fixing member when the filter cartridge is fixed to the lid.

[0038] According to a particular feature of the cartridge, the first rim section is located on one side, and the second rim section extends diametrically opposite the first side (on a second side). The cap is typically positioned on a specific side, preferably different from the first side, relative to the central opening. Brief description of the drawings

[0039] Other features, details, and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below and analyzing the attached drawings, on which: there figure 1 A perspective view shows an example of a filter cartridge with an off-center cap and a guide element having a degree of mobility within the cartridge cavity. figure 2is a longitudinal cross-sectional view, parallel to a central axis passing through a filtered liquid outlet, of a filter in the final mounting position of the associated cartridge, with an elastically deformable element in a compressed state within the cartridge cavity. figure 3 watch, following the same view as on the figure 2 An exploded view of the filter components, with the cartridge in an angular position compatible with the closure of the off-center channel, with the elastically deformable element in a default conformation. figure 4 illustrated, with a longitudinal section of the cartouche of the figure 1 This is an example of integrating a guide element, here equipped with an elastically deformable part and a hollow tip allowing rotational guidance contact when the cartridge is inserted into the housing. figure 5shows a rigid part, belonging to the cartridge, for holding the guide element in the hollow internal space delimited by the filter medium of the cartridge. figure 6 is a top view of the bottom of a predetermined support used for mounting the filter cartridge. Description of the implementation methods

[0040] Several examples of non-limiting embodiments are described in detail below. In the various figures, identical reference numerals indicate identical or similar elements.

[0041] With reference to Figures 1 And 2 The liquid filter F comprises a reusable support S and a disposable filter element called a filter cartridge 1. As seen on the figure 1The filter cartridge 1 comprises a lower flange 1a, an upper flange 1b, an internal element or structure 1c of substantially tubular shape, and a filter medium 2 arranged around the internal structure 1c and through which the liquid to be filtered, for example, lubricating oil or possibly fuel, can pass. As is known per se, the filter medium 2 is interposed between the lower flange 1a and the upper flange 1b and allows the impurities contained in the liquid to be filtered. The filter medium 2 has an annular shape, extending around a central axis Z which defines a longitudinal direction of the cartridge 1.

[0042] The filter cartridge 1 can be removably housed within the internal space of a filter housing 3 F, which forms the reusable support S. The housing 3 has an inlet for raw liquid (not shown) and an outlet O for purified liquid. The housing 3 is generally designed in two parts with a bowl 4 visible on the figure 2 and a lid 3a that can be screwed onto the bowl 4, with an additional or alternative locking mechanism that can be used in some variations. The lid 3a is preferably reusable, although the removable lid function could possibly be integrated into the cartridge 1. The lid 3a may be similar to the one shown in the figure 1of document EP 2 490 786, with fastening means, with or without snap hooks, to engage with internal projections or contact portions formed on structure 1c, here in an upper annular end of this structure 1c, of the filter cartridge 1. More generally, the cover 3a has any suitable fastening element, preferably with a portion for rotational and / or axial thrust driving of the filter cartridge 1 when the cover 3a (on which the cartridge 1 is fixed) is screwed on. Typically, the annular flange 1b has an opening 1d and can thus be traversed by an insertion portion of such a centering and fastening element when the cartridge 1 is fixed to the cover 3a. Also, internal axial contact tabs (not visible in the sections of the figures 2 And 3 ) can allow the cover 3a to press axially on the flange 1b to push the cartridge 1.

[0043] The bowl 4 is provided with a longitudinal conduit 7 which defines the inlet or outlet of the filter housing 3. A lateral wall 4a of the bowl 4 surrounds, with radial spacing, this conduit 7 which is arranged to fit into a hollow internal space 9 of the cartridge 1, here delimited by the filter media 2.

[0044] We can see on the figures 2 And 3In the mounted configuration of cartridge 1, the conduit 7 protrudes to enter the internal space 9, while the lateral wall 4a extends around an outer face of the annular filter media 2. This filter media 2 separates the internal space 9 for purified liquid (downstream zone in communication with outlet O) from the peripheral volume V1 (upstream zone) through which the raw liquid to be purified flows. The sealed connection between space 9 and outlet O is achieved through a central axial orifice 30 in the flange 1a, referred to hereafter as the axial outlet orifice of cartridge 1.

[0045] With reference to figures 2 to 4 The bowl 4 defines the base of the housing 3, against which the lower flange 1a of the cartridge 1 can rest. The base has a drain channel 5 located near a portion of the side wall 4a of the bowl 4: it is off-center. The filter cartridge 1 may include an O-ring J (visible on the figures 2 And3 ), for example, placed at the junction between the internal structure 1c and the lower flange 1a and intended to ensure a seal with the longitudinal conduit 7 that defines the inlet or outlet of the filter housing. Alternatively, and as illustrated on the figure 4 for example, a sealing lip J' can be provided directly on the lower flange 1a.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the conduit 7 extends around a central axis X which coincides with the central axis Z of the filter media 2 of the cartridge 1 when the cartridge 1 is mounted on the support S. This coaxial mounting of the cartridge 1 is made possible here by the interaction of the flange 1a with the support S, described below. The conduit 7 defines, for example, the outlet O for the purified liquid. It is understood that the drain channel 5 (to allow purging when the cartridge is removed) is offset from the central axis X of the conduit 7 defining the outlet O.

[0047] The cartridge 1 is removably attached to the support S, for example, using the connecting cover 3a with the bowl 4. Alternatively, it can also be attached using fasteners located outside the cover 3a. The support S can be an integral part of the bowl 4, which is preferably attached to a vehicle using suitable fasteners. The side wall 4a of the bowl 4 can be metallic, and the structure of the support S can be made of plastic and incorporate the two channels or conduits (5, 7).

[0048] The flange 1a and the internal frame 1c of the filter cartridge 1 will now be described in more detail in connection with the figure 1 .

[0049] The flange 1a comprises a radial portion 10 of annular shape with a first face on one side where the filter media 2 is disposed and a second face on a second side opposite the first side along the direction of the central axis Z. The radial portion 10 is, for example, substantially flat and extends annularly around the central opening 11. In the non-limiting embodiment of the figure 1 The flange 1a has a projection (possibly a single projection) on its second face, preferably parallel to the central axis Z, forming the plug 12 which protrudes eccentrically on this second side relative to the flange 1a. The plug 12 here has a sealing element or portion 12a to hermetically seal an opening 5a in the drainage channel 5.

[0050] The radial portion 10 can extend from an inner edge surrounding the orifice 30 to an annular outer edge, possibly joining: on the side of the inner edge, an annular projection inserted into the hollow internal space 9 and able to carry a sealing element J,J'; and on the side of the outer edge, an axial rim forming a peripheral portion, for example cylindrical, which extends around the axial end 2a of the filter medium 2. More generally, any suitable rim can be provided which axially extends the radial portion 10 on one and / or the other of its delimiting edges.

[0051] With reference to the figure 1For example, the plug 12 has a certain height H2 which can exceed 9 or 10 mm. This off-center plug can block a drain opening which, when the cartridge 1 is removed, is typically released before the seal is broken at the sealing element J or J' that isolates the internal space 9 and the clean liquid conduit 7 from the rest of the filtration chamber. Thus, with a plug 12 that provides a seal at a significantly lower level / closer to the bottom than the seal at the central passage of the flange 1, it is possible to purge without necessarily contaminating the filter outlet with unpurified raw liquid.

[0052] The internal framework 1c is here made of a rigid, perforated plastic structure. Radial openings 60 are thus distributed along the height of this framework 1c. The framework 1c can be extended along the Z-axis and directly attached to the lower and upper flanges, respectively, supporting the media 2 on its inner face. As will be described later, the framework may have a guide GL capable of guiding a slide or element 6 in translation, which plays a role in achieving the correct angular position of the cartridge, corresponding to a position of the plug 12 opposite the opening 5a of the channel 5.

[0053] Now, referring to the figure 4The frame 1c is fixed within the internal hollow space 9 and may have a longitudinal guide distributed in at least two parts or rails GL1, GL2 that project radially inwards into space 9, parallel to the Z-axis. The element 6, which typically has a tubular shape open at both ends, extends longitudinally within the internal hollow space 9 and can move linearly along the rails GL1, GL2. In the example of the figure 4 , the GL1, GL2 rails form two continuous longitudinal reliefs, which are radially projecting inwards relative to the rest of the internal frame 1c in order to engage in corresponding / complementary grooves R6 provided on the lateral outer face of a rigid part of the element 6. In this way, the element 6 is mounted like a slide in the internal frame 1c.

[0054] The sliding element 6 is held within the internal space 9 to have limited relative displacement both towards the lower flange 1a and in the opposite direction. In the direction of the lower flange 1a, a sliding limit switch is achieved by one or more stopping surfaces B1, B2, visible on the figure 5 , which are radially projecting on the rails GL1, GL2. The stop surface(s) B1, B2 allow the element 6 to be axially retained, thus preventing it from leaving the hollow internal space 9 through the axial orifice 30 or preventing it from coming to rest in the axial zone of the opening of the space 9 corresponding to this orifice 30. The relative position (with respect to the frame 1c) of the element 6 in the opposite direction depends on a prestressing means, here an elastic return element 35 such as a spring.

[0055] With reference to figures 4 And 5The elastic return member 35 extends longitudinally, for example between a first fixed end 35a in the cartridge 1, and a second movable end 35b with the element 6 which forms a pusher slide for the elastic return member 35. The member 35 is typically compressible to present the first fixed end 35a, which can be held by a spacer 32, here rigid, belonging to the internal frame 1c. Like the element 6, the elastic return member is disposed in the hollow internal space 9.

[0056] Element 6 can be inserted axially, during the manufacturing / assembly of the various cartridge components, into the internal volume 19 of the frame 1c. In an option where the frame 1c is already surrounded by the medium 1, element 6 is then inserted into space 9 through an opening in the medium 2, for example, before the flange 1a is attached. In practice, it may be simpler to mount element 6 in the internal volume 19 before attaching the medium 2 around the frame 1c. The stop surfaces B1 and B2 may have a ramp profile or a decrease in thickness on their axial end facing the lower flange 1a, to facilitate the mounting of element 6 in the internal volume 19 of the frame 1c, which has a general tubular cage shape, here cylindrical.

[0057] The element 6 may be essentially rigid or have a rigid portion forming the outer lateral face 6b that can slide within the ridges or rails GL1, GL2, or similar guide GL. The contact end 6c is typically formed within such a rigid portion. Preferably, the element 6 has an outer lateral face 6b that has at least two guide ridges R6, for example, distributed over two diametrically opposed regions. These two guide ridges R6 are engaged with two longitudinally elongated ridges or rails GL1, GL2, which belong to the longitudinal guide.

[0058] With reference to figures 4 And 5Two surfaces or ribs, radially projecting inwards relative to the rest of the frame 1c, form rails GL1 and GL2 that fit into grooves constituting the reliefs R6. Here, the reliefs for the anti-rotation effect consist of longitudinal grooves cut into the thickness of the tubular piece composing the sliding element 6. The rails GL1 and GL2 of the fixed frame 1c thus hold the movable element 6 solely by sliding along the central axis Z.

[0059] Furthermore, the stopping surfaces B1, B2 can be provided on the rails as bosses, lugs, or internal (radial) projections, each projecting radially inwards from / towards an inner face of the rails GL1, GL2. The grooves R6 can open axially on the side of the contact end 6c without creating radially through notches in this end 6c. The grooves R6 can be arranged in respective angular sectors that are away from the first proximal edge portion 8a of the lower flange 1a, and possibly also away from the second distal edge portion 8b of the lower flange 1a.

[0060] More generally, each of the stop surfaces B1, B2 can be arranged in any position allowing axial stop engagement by a corresponding rim / grip edge formed by the element 6. In the default position of the element 6, it can be provided that the stop surfaces B1, B2 are located further from the radial portion of the flange 10 than is the first edge portion 8a.

[0061] The element 6, forming a slide, may have a perforated transverse wall or a transverse member (spacer) 33 against which the second end 35b of the elastic return member 35 or similar prestressing means rests axially when the latter is designed separately (initially separate part) from the element 6. In a variant, the element 6 and the member 35 may be part of the same inseparable block.

[0062] In the example of the figure 4Element 6 consists of a tubular piece beveled on the side opposite the return member 35. The transverse member 33 can be integrated into the hollow of the piece, for example, by connecting to the inner face of the tubular piece with an offset relative to a rear annular edge. The transverse member 33 allows the second movable end 35b to be pushed towards the first end 35a when element 6 is itself selectively subjected to a counter-pressure by a protruding tube T as a reaction to the thrust of the cartridge 1 during its insertion into the bowl 4. As described later, the cartridge 1 is mounted on the longitudinal conduit 7, forming an access port with a protruding tube geometry T (protruding opposite the bottom of the bowl 4) which is positioned in the internal hollow space 9 during the insertion of the cartridge 1 into the filter housing.

[0063] Bowl 4, which forms the base of case 3 (see the figure 2for example) presents a mounting support S, for example at least partly metallic, to cooperate with / fix the flange 1a, cooperate further with the element 6, and thus position coaxially the filter cartridge 1 on the conduit 7 of the support S forming the port for liquid circulating also in the space 9, the protruding tube T being disposed at one end of such a conduit 7.

[0064] With reference to the figure 1The cartridge 1 has a configuration that protects the moving part, including element 6, within the hollow internal space 9, while also providing guidance for the movement of the cartridge 1 relative to its mounting support S provided in the bowl 4. In particular, element 6 has a contact end 6c axially aligned with the axial orifice 30 and adapted for contact with the protruding tube T provided in the access port. The contact end 6c extends asymmetrically around the central axis Z to present an inclination. This arrangement allows element 6, mounted movably within the internal space 9, to perform rotational indexing of the cartridge, preventing mispositioning of the off-center cap 12.

[0065] In the illustrated examples, the element 6 is engaged on the longitudinal guide (GL, GL1, GL2) with an anti-rotation effect, which allows it to achieve angular indexing 6 by blocking the rotation of the cartridge when a gripping configuration is obtained between the contact end 6c, more particularly at the level of its axial end surface S6, and a corresponding edge B4 provided in the fixed mounting support, belonging to the bowl 4.

[0066] The tubular design of element 6, guided within space 9, allows it to cooperate with the protruding tube T for liquid flow, resulting in angular repositioning of the cartridge 1. The use of an end 6c with a guided, inclined interface that can engage end-to-end with the protruding tube T enables a sliding effect and thus limits or prevents the risk of jamming in a position other than the desired final position. Element 6, rotationally blocked by the internal frame 1c, allows for effective rotational indexing and then retracts during the mounting of the cartridge 1 in the housing 3, overcoming the stress on the return element 35, which contributes to proper guidance of the off-center cap 12.

[0067] The contact end 6c, as visible for example on the figure 1This corresponds to an annular edge and typically presents a first edge portion 8a that extends comparatively closer to the flange 1a than a second edge portion 8b (distal to the radial portion 10 of the lower flange 1a). A beveled design may be provided. More generally, it is understood that the contact end 6c may include two sloping regions adjacent to the first edge portion 8a and distributed on either side of this first edge portion 8a. This forms a leading / frontal portion that can be engaged before the second edge portion 8b and whose curvature facilitates a rotational effect guiding the upward movement of an edge B4, also beveled or with a complementary incline, of the protruding tube T.

[0068] On the figures 2 And 3 We have a cartridge 1 which may be similar to that of the figure 1, here with a different orientation of the beveled part of the guide element 3, modified at 180° relative to that of the figure 1 , so that the cap 12 is located on the same side as the top of the protruding tube T provided in the base / support S of the bowl 4. Example of how to install the stopper

[0069] With reference to figures 3 And 6The bowl 4 can internally define two angular zones or sectors 15 and 17, with the first angular sector 15 opposite the opening 5a of the discharge channel 5 and located along the inner periphery of the bowl 4. A support structure S can be provided, which allows the respective conduits 5 and 7 to be formed. Opposite sector 15, angular sector 17 comprises the region where the discharge channel 5 is located. An intermediate wall 16, here annular, is optionally provided in structure S. The bowl 4 is here decomposed into a bowl half M1 near the discharge channel 5, including angular sector 17. The first zone 15 extends into the other bowl half M2. In this example, the bowl 4 has a circular or annular cross-section and extends around a longitudinal axis which may optionally be offset from the central axis X of the conduit 7. Alternatively, the X axis is an axis of revolution symmetry for the wall 4a.

[0070] This structure S allows for defining a unique angular position of the cartridge 1 in which the plug 12 can engage in the channel 5. When installing the cartridge 1, the operator can typically rotate the cartridge 1, for example, in the direction indicated by arrow A on the figure 3 so that the plug 12 is in the angular sector 17. The protruding tube T is then already inserted into the axial orifice 30, here through the lower flange 1a, in a way compatible with rotation.

[0071] Then, during the approach phase to bring the lower flange 1a onto a shoulder 7a forming an axial stop for the support S, the contact end 6c slides (while being guided) along the inclined edge B4 of the protruding tube T, which limits the movement relative to the central axis Z of the cartridge 1, and above all accompanies / guides the fine rotation around the X axis until the gripping configuration of the type shown in the diagram is obtained. figures 2 And 3 The return member 35 exerts a sufficiently high preload to limit or prevent the recoil of the element 6 in the internal space 9, so that the plug 12 is in the correct angular position without being immediately engaged in the channel 5. figure 3 This illustrates the recoil-free configuration of element 6, which allows for angular indexing. Part 35 is not (significantly) compressed. This represents the initial insertion state of cartridge 1 into bowl 4.

[0072] With reference to figures 2 And 6We can see that after correctly positioning the plug 12 in the first zone 15 and aligning it with the channel 5, the operator can continue driving it in, possibly using the cover 3a already fitted onto the cartridge 1. Thus, the cartridge 1 moves from its first driven state, in which it can no longer be rotated around its Z-axis, to a second driven state (visible on the figure 2 ), here by the effect of screwing the cover on. The cartridge 1 then follows a purely axial movement. Only the rigid part of the angular indexing element 6 no longer moves because it is axially engaged against the edge B4 of the protruding tube T. For the second insertion state, the lower flange 1a can optionally axially abut against the external shoulder 7a provided on the external face of the conduit 7.

[0073] The height H2 of the plug 12, defined from the flange 1a, can be slightly less than or equal to the height H1, which is the slope height formed at the contact end 6c. This allows for a spring stiffness and a preload sufficient for the recoil of the element 6, while ensuring that the plug 12 does not abut directly against the support S in the bowl 4 due to an angular offset relative to the channel 5. In certain configurations, the following relationship can be satisfied: 0 , 88 ≤ H 2 / H 1 ≤ 1,01

[0074] In the example of the figure 1 The cap 12 protrudes on the second side (where the second portion of the edge 8b is located) relative to the flange 1a. This arrangement can prevent the risk of the cap 12a hitting the bottom of the bowl 4 due to an excessive tilt of the cartridge 1 (reduction of the tilt when approaching the bottom of the bowl).

[0075] As long as the protruding tube T has not slid and fully retracted along the sloping edges of the contact end 6c to reach or position itself as close as possible to the edge portion 8b, the cartridge retains some rotational mobility in response to a downward thrust from the bowl 4, and the plug 12 is not in contact with any bottom wall located at the opening 5a of the drain / purge channel 5. The edge B4 of the protruding tube T can easily slide and rotate up the contact end 6c, along the sloping edges, to occupy a gripping configuration that no longer allows relative movement between the contact end 6c and this corresponding edge B4. Only a withdrawal action of the cartridge 1, with extraction of the plug 12 from the channel 5, will allow such relative movement again.

[0076] The F filter, in its assembled state as seen on the figure 2The unit may have an inlet and outlet located on the bowl 4, simplifying the design of the removable cover 3a. The cartridge 1 is thus removably housed within the internal volume of the housing 3, with the protruding tube T inserted into the space 9, preventing the cartridge from rotating around the X-axis (coinciding with the Z-axis, which passes through the protruding tube T) as long as a gripping configuration is present. During disassembly, the return element 35 prevents premature rotation, allowing the plug 12 to be removed linearly without rotational stress until the edge B4 can disengage from the contact end 6c of the rotational / angular indexing element 6.

[0077] The protruding tube T and the contact end 6c overlap in the gripping configuration, which prevents the cartridge 1 from rotating. There may be complete or partial complementarity of form. Complementarity of inclination may suffice here, if necessary by having complementary beveled annular edges to achieve the overlap without the edge B4 surrounding the element 6.

[0078] One of the advantages of cartridge 1 is that it is easy to handle and incorporates an element that can combine the advantages of a keying device (adaptation to the structure S provided in the bowl 4, in particular adaptation to the protruding tube T) and rotational indexing to avoid positioning errors or damage to the cap 12 during installation.

[0079] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, only by way of example, but encompasses all the variations that a person skilled in the art may consider in the context of the protection sought.

[0080] For example, although the drawings illustrate the case of a helical spring, typically having a height greater than or equal to one-third or one-quarter of the height of the annular filter media 2, other deformable elements can be provided to allow axial displacement of the contact end 6c from the flange 1a. Also, the height H6 (along the Z-axis) of element 6 has been shown to be greater than the length H2 and possibly approximately twice the height H1 of the end 6c forming the inclined contact interface. This height H6 can, of course, be much smaller or, conversely, larger while remaining compatible with an internal positioning of the end 6c within space 9.

Claims

1. Filter cartridge (1) for filtering a combustion-engine liquid, in a filter (F) having a discharge channel (5) offset on one side with respect to an access port belonging, in a base of the filter, to an inlet for raw liquid or to an outlet for purified liquid, the cartridge comprising an annular-shaped filtering medium (2) allowing the purification of said liquid while extending around a central axis (Z), a hollow internal space (9) delimited by the filtering medium (2) axially opening through an axial orifice (30) of the cartridge, characterised in that it comprises: - a flange (1a) having the axial orifice (30) and a radial annular-shaped portion (10) around this orifice (30); - an inner framework (1c), secured in the hollow internal space (9) and provided with a longitudinal guide (GL; GL1, GL2); - an element (6), preferably tubular in shape, which extends longitudinally within the hollow internal space (9), the element (6) having a contact end (6c) axially aligned facing the axial orifice (30) and adapted for contact with a protruding tube (T) provided in the access port, the contact end (6c) extending asymmetrically around the central axis (Z) to create an inclination with a first edge portion (8a) that extends comparatively closer to the flange (1a) than a second edge portion (8b); - at least one stop surface (B1, B2) for axially retaining the element (6), preventing it from leaving the hollow internal space (9) through the axial orifice (30); - a prestressing means; and - a plug (12), preferably parallel to the central axis (Z), protruding opposite to the medium (2), from the flange (1a), to close off in a watertight manner an opening (5a) of the discharge channel (5); and in which the element, engaged on the longitudinal guide (GL; GL1, GL2) with an anti-rotation effect, is an angular-location element (6) arranged movably within the hollow internal space (9), to move linearly along the guide (GL; GL1, GL2) in the direction of the central axis (Z), passing: - from a first position compatible with direct engagement between the contact end (6c) and the protruding tube (T), implemented within the hollow internal space (9), with the angular-location element (6) abutting against or being axially proximal with respect to at least one stop surface (B1, B2) provided on the guide, - to a second position that is comparatively further from the flange (1a) that maintains said direct engagement, in which the angular-location element (6) is disengaged from or axially distal to the at least one stop surface (B1, B2), the angular-location element (6) being capable of moving away from the flange (1a) while overcoming a return force exerted by the prestressing means acting on said element (6).

2. Filter cartridge according to claim 1, in which the angular-location element (6) includes a rigid part provided with a lateral outer face (6b) with two guide reliefs (R6) formed on the lateral outer space and engaging with two longitudinally elongated reliefs (GL1, GL2) belonging to the longitudinal guide, the contact end (6c) being formed in the rigid part.

3. Filter cartridge according to claim 2, wherein a portion (6a) of the lateral outer face (6b) is located closer to the flange (1a) than the second edge portion (8b).

4. Filter cartridge according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the prestressing means is an elastic return member (35), preferably in the form of an axially compressible member, and wherein the rigid part of the angular-location element (6) is constrained to translate, along the central axis (Z), with a movable end (35b) of the elastic return member (35).

5. Filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising, in the hollow internal space (9), an elastically deformable compressible element (35) that is capable of stressing by default, preferably through a longitudinal thrust, the angular-locating element (6) against the at least one stop surface (B1, B2).

6. Filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the contact end (6c) forms the end of an axial tubular component with a gradual inclination in at least two sloping regions adjacent to the first edge portion (8a) and distributed on either side of the first edge portion (8a).

7. Filter cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the prestressing means, which has a first end (35a) secured in the cartridge (1), extends longitudinally in the hollow internal space (9) between a strut (32) of the inner framework (1c), against which the first end (35a) bears, and a transverse member (33) carried by the angular-location element (6) which: - extends transversely within the axial tubular section; and - is engaged by a second movable end (35b) of the prestressing means, such that the transverse member (33) is able to push the second movable end (35b) toward the first end (35a).

8. Filter cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact end (6c) is a bevelled tube end, preferably with an inclination angle between 20 and 70°.

9. Filter cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact end (6c) is divided into two halves that are symmetrical to one another with respect to a plane passing through the central axis (Z), which is a plane of symmetry of the filtering medium (2), the first edge portion (8a) and the second edge portion (8b) each being distributed in the two halves, the second edge portion (8b) being a portion of the contact end (6c) that is distal with respect to the flange (1a).

10. Filter cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hollow internal space (9) delimited by the filtering media (2) is a circulation space for liquid filtered by the filtering media (2), the axial orifice (30) being an outlet orifice (30) of the cartridge (1), and wherein an elastically deformable annular sealing part (J; J') is provided on an annular insertion part of the flange (1a), in order to define a local minimum for the cross-sectional passage through the flange (1a) and to produce an annular radial sealing contact against an annular portion of the protruding tube (T) inserted into the hollow internal space (9).

11. Filter cartridge according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the inclination in the contact end (6c) extends over a height H1, referred to as the slope height, which satisfies the following relationship in relation to a height H2 of the plug (12) defined from the flange (1a): 0.88 ≤ H 2 / H 1 ≤ 1.0112. Filter (F) for purifying a combustion-engine fluid, the filter comprising: - a filter housing (3) which has an inlet for raw fluid and an outlet (O) for purified fluid, the housing (3) defining an inner volume and having a bottom with a discharge channel (5) separate from the inlet and from the outlet (O); - a cover (3a) for preventing access to the inner volume and removably attached to a bowl (4) of the housing (3) surrounding the inner volume; - a protruding tube (T) provided in an access port to the outlet (O), the protruding tube (T) being a fixed part secured to the bowl (4); - the filter cartridge (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, removably housed within the inner volume of the housing (3), with the protruding tube (T) inserted into the hollow internal space (9) by engaging the contact end (6c) of the rotational-locating element (6), in an engagement enabling the filter cartridge (1) to be rotationally located about the central axis (Z) relative to the housing (3), wherein the protruding tube (T) is traversed by the central axis (Z) and opposes relative rotational movement about the central axis (Z) between the filter cartridge (1) and the bowl (4), in a gripping configuration in which the protruding tube (T) and the contact end (6c) overlap by complementarity of shape.

13. Filter according to claim 12, wherein the gripping configuration is obtained before the plug (12) enters the discharge channel (5) to close it.

14. Filter according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the bowl (4) forms a base of the housing (3) and includes a mounting support (S), the flange (1a) cooperating with said support (S) to position the filter cartridge (1) coaxially on a conduit (7) of the support (S) forming the access port, the protruding tube (T) being located at one end of the conduit (7), and wherein the cover (3a) is adapted to be screwed onto the bowl (4) and has a member for fastening the filter cartridge (1), said fastening member comprising a portion for insertion in the internal space allowing a relative rotation of the cover (3a) with respect to the filter cartridge (1) during the screwing of the cover (3a) on which the filter cartridge is attached.