Filter element, filter device, vehicle, use and method

Abstract

Filter element (8), in particular for an interior filter device (6), for example for a motor vehicle (1), wherein the filter element (8) can be fastened in a filter housing (7), wherein two engagement elements (23a, 23b) on a side face (22) of a frame (10, 50) of the filter element (8) are disengaged from associated engagement mating elements (24a, 24b) of the filter housing (7) in a released state of the two engagement elements and are in engagement with the engagement mating elements in a locked state of the two engagement elements, wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are at a first distance (D1) from each other in the released state and at a second distance (D2), which is different from the first distance, from each other in the locked state, wherein one (23b) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) on the side face (22) is connected with the aid of an elastic element (28b) to a rigid element (27a) which connects the two engagement elements (23a, 23b), wherein the elastic element (28b), in the event of a transfer between the released state and the locked state, generates a restoring force (RK1) which acts on the one (23b) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b).

Description

[0001] Filter element, filter device, vehicle, use and method

[0002] Technical area

[0003] The present invention relates to a filter element, in particular for an interior filter device, for example, for a motor vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a filter device and a vehicle having such a filter device. The present invention further relates to a use of a filter element. According to yet another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for attaching a filter element to or in a filter housing.

[0004] Although applicable to any filter elements and filter devices, the present invention and the problem underlying it are described below for an interior filter of a motor vehicle.

[0005] Increasing air pollution, especially in large cities, combined with the use of modern air conditioning systems, makes it necessary to clean the air drawn from outside into the interior of a vehicle and then treated or conditioned using suitable filters. Examples include particle filters, odor filters, or combinations thereof, which filter out or adsorb suspended matter, particles, and odors contained in the ambient air.

[0006] Folded or pleated filter materials, such as filter fleeces that form a pleated pack, are often used to filter air in the interior of a motor vehicle. For this purpose, an initially flat sheet of filter material is folded in a zigzag pattern. The pleated pack is held in place by side bands and head bands, for example, or by another frame. Such filter elements can be interchangeably mounted in a filter housing. The resulting filter device can be installed in the air conditioning system of a corresponding motor vehicle.

[0007] Replacing filter elements should be as easy as possible. At the same time, the filter element should be securely fixed in the corresponding filter housing. This means that the filter element cannot be displaced from its position in the filter housing due to vibrations or pressure surges. Another goal could be to ensure that only specific filter elements suitable for the respective application can be inserted into the filter housing.

[0008] To achieve these goals, it is generally known to provide filter elements and filter housings with suitable engagement and counter-engagement elements (or retaining elements). When attached or mounted, these elements ensure a positive fit that holds the respective filter element in the associated filter housing. Examples of such engagement and counter-engagement elements can include screws with associated threads or clips with associated detents.

[0009] State of the art

[0010] DE 10 2007 050 850 A1 describes an interior filter for a heating or air conditioning system of a motor vehicle.

[0011] WO 2015 / 086661 A1 discloses a filter element with a filter medium and a frame for fastening the filter medium to or in a filter receptacle. The frame has at least one engagement element and at least one snap hook. The at least one engagement element can be pivotally engaged with a receptacle element of the filter receptacle for pivoting the filter element relative to the filter receptacle about a pivot axis. The at least one snap hook can be snapped into at least one detent in the filter receptacle for blocking pivoting of the filter element relative to the filter receptacle at least in a first direction about the pivot axis.

[0012] WO 2021 / 213869 A1 discloses an air filter device for a motor vehicle, comprising a housing with a receiving space for a filter element, wherein the filter element has a frame that at least partially surrounds a filter material of the filter element. Side walls of the frame are elastically deformable, so that the distance between the two projections arranged on the same side wall can be reduced in order to move each second projection past inwardly directed guide flanks of the guide rail into the second end region of the guide rail assigned to them upon insertion of the filter element.

[0013] Disclosure of the invention

[0014] According to a first aspect, a filter element is proposed, in particular for an interior filter device, for example, for a motor vehicle. The filter element can be fastened to or in a filter housing, wherein the filter element comprises: a filter medium body, a frame at least partially surrounding the filter medium body, two engagement elements arranged on a side surface of the frame, which extend away from the filter medium body and can be brought into engagement with respectively associated engagement counter-elements on the filter housing for fastening the filter element to or in the latter, a rigid element which connects the two engagement elements on the side surface in a force-conducting manner, wherein the two engagement elements are designed to be disengaged from the associated engagement counter-elements in a released state and to be engaged with them in a locked state.wherein the two engagement elements have a first distance from each other in the release state and a second distance from each other in the locking state, which is different from the first distance, wherein one of the two engagement elements is connected to the rigid element on the side surface by means of an elastic element, wherein the elastic element generates a restoring force acting on one of the two engagement elements when the two engagement elements are transferred between the locking state and the release state.

[0015] "Force-conducting connection" is understood here to mean that the rigid element is capable of transmitting a reaction force between the two engagement elements that counteracts the restoring force. This is possible in designs using a single-piece or multi-piece rigid element.

[0016] Advantageously (although this is preferably not excluded), in this embodiment the frame or the filter medium body does not need to be elastically deformed in order to mount the filter element on or in the filter housing. Rather, the corresponding elastic deformability is provided at least partially or exclusively by means of an elastic element which is mechanically connected between one engagement element and the rigid element. Accordingly, when the restoring force is generated, a force flow leads from one engagement element through the elastic element, through the rigid element and then (optionally via another elastic element or directly) into the other engagement element. One engagement element is connected to the rigid element by means of the elastic element and is therefore only indirectly connected to it. The other engagement element can be connected directly or likewise indirectly to the rigid element.In particular, it can also be provided that the two engagement elements are each connected to the frame (one engagement element in any case by means of the elastic element), with the frame only being partially stiffened by the rigid element, so that, for example, a section of a non-rigid frame material lies between the force introduction point of the corresponding engagement element on the side surface and the rigid element. However, if this section is designed to be short, it bends only slightly, for example, and is therefore harmless to the function in question.

[0017] One or more of the engagement elements can be designed, for example, as pins, projections, pins, piping, etc. More than two engagement elements can be provided. In particular, two engagement elements can be provided on each of the two side surfaces of the frame. Accordingly, two or more counter-engagement elements are also provided on the filter housing. In particular, one (or the other) of the two engagement elements can be designed as a catch, whereby the corresponding engagement element can be designed as a counter-catch.

[0018] The locking state preferably corresponds to the mounted state (i.e., the filter element is attached to or in the filter housing) of the filter element. Preferably, in the locking state, movement of the filter element relative to the filter housing is locked in all six degrees of freedom. The fact that the two engagement elements are engaged with the mating engagement elements means that these each form a positive connection with one another.

[0019] The release state preferably corresponds to a state in which the engagement elements have just left the engagement with the mating engagement elements. In particular, the restoring force can be maximum in the release state. "Maximum" refers to a period of observation in which the filter element and the filter housing are initially separated from one another, and at the end of which the filter element is attached to or in the filter housing.

[0020] To transfer the filter element from the locked state to the released state, it may be necessary, in particular, to apply manual force to the filter element, in particular to one of the two engagement elements or to both engagement elements. The manual force can be applied either directly or indirectly to at least one of the engagement elements. During assembly, it is possible, on the one hand, for an assembly force directed in the insertion direction to be exerted on the filter element, which force is then converted into a movement transverse to the insertion direction by an insertion section, designed, for example, as an inclined plane, of the associated counter-engagement element on the housing side, in order to change the distance between the engagement elements. On the other hand, in particular for disassembly, means can be provided on the filter element itself to facilitate or prevent the application of manual force to the at least one engagement element.Improve the accessibility of the engagement elements by hand. For example, a lever, a strap, or a tab connected to at least one engagement element could be considered for this purpose.

[0021] In other words, a rest state that the engagement elements assume without external force corresponds to their locked state. Due to the restoring force generated by the elastic element, the engagement element(s) strive to automatically return to the locked state when transferred from the locked to the released state. The first distance can be greater or smaller than the second distance. This depends on the respective design. According to one embodiment, a difference between the first and second distance is less than 20%, preferably less than 10%, and even more preferably less than 5% of the first distance. In particular, in embodiments the distance difference is just enough that at least one of the two engagement elements can be guided past the corresponding mating engagement element in order to disengage them.For example, the distance difference between the first and second distances can be less than 15 mm, less than 10 mm, or less than 5 mm. During the transition between the locked state and the released state, the engagement elements can move away from each other or toward each other.

[0022] One (and / or the other, mentioned in more detail later) of the two engagement elements can be designed to be pivoted or (also exclusively) moved linearly for the transfer between the locked state and the released state.

[0023] The elastic element is in particular a spring and can be made of plastic and / or metal, for example.

[0024] The engagement counter-elements can be formed on wall sections of the filter housing. The filter housing can be formed, for example, in the form of a frame, in particular a rectangular frame. The wall sections can be partial regions of opposite sides of the frame. The filter housing can be made, for example, of plastic. In particular, the filter housing is manufactured as a plastic injection-molded component. Additionally or alternatively, the filter housing can also be made partially or entirely of metal, in particular sheet metal.

[0025] (Exactly) one side surface can be provided, such as in the case of a round or other free-form filter element without corners. However, several, in particular four, side surfaces can also be provided. In particular, two side surfaces can be opposite each other. For example, two opposing side surfaces can be provided, each having two (or more) engagement elements. Thus, engagement between the filter element and the filter housing can be created on at least two sides.

[0026] The filter element comprises, for example, a filter medium (here also referred to as a "filter medium body") and one or more stabilizing elements, in particular side bands and / or head bands (also referred to as headbands), which stabilize the filter medium at least in sections to maintain its shape, especially during filter operation. The stabilizing elements can, in particular, form a closed or open frame—also made of one piece material—that surrounds the filter medium.

[0027] The stabilizing elements can be integrally bonded to the filter medium at the edges, in particular by adhesive bonding. For this purpose, the stabilizing elements can be heated and the filter medium pressed into the heated material. Alternatively, the stabilizing elements can be injection-molded onto the filter medium. An adhesive can also be used as an additional material. The stabilizing elements themselves can be made of the same material as the filter medium. The stabilizing elements can be made of, for example, PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a glass fiber material, synthetic fiber material, or another plastic or plastic mixture, or of a nonwoven. In particular, the stabilizing elements can be manufactured as plastic injection-molded components. The stabilizing elements can be rigid or flexible (especially fluffy).

[0028] The side bands of the frame (which in this case preferably comprise the "side surface of the frame") can have a basis weight of, for example, 100 to 500 g / m², preferably 200 to 400 g / m². The basis weight is determined according to DIN RN 29073-1 (non-woven). The tensile strength of the side bands or the side surfaces of the frame can be, for example, at least 100, preferably at least 200, and even more preferably at least 500 N / 50 mm in the machine direction (longitudinal direction). Transverse to the machine direction, the tensile strength can be at least 20, preferably at least 100, and even more preferably at least 250 N / 50 mm. The tensile strengths are determined according to DIN EN 29073-3.

[0029] Preferably, the basis weight and / or tensile strength (in the machine direction and / or transverse thereto) of the sidebands is lower than that of the headbands. In particular, the sidebands are more elastic than the headbands. This means that less force is required to bend or lengthen the sidebands by a predefined amount than the headbands.

[0030] The filter medium can be pleated or wave-shaped. Zigzag or W-folds are known examples of folds. The filter medium can be embossed and then folded with sharp edges along the embossed edges to form folded edges. The starting material can be a flat filter material sheet, which is then formed accordingly. The filter medium can be, for example, a filter fabric, a filter scrim, or a filter fleece. In particular, the filter medium can be produced using a spunbond or meltblown process. Furthermore, the filter medium can be felted or needle-punched. The filter medium can contain natural fibers, such as cotton, or synthetic fibers, for example made of polyester, polyphenyl sulfide, or polytetrafluoroethylene. During processing, the fibers can be oriented in, diagonally, and / or transversely to the machine direction.

[0031] The filter medium can be single- or multi-layered. It can also contain an adsorbent, such as activated carbon. Furthermore, the filter medium can have an antimicrobial and / or antiallergenic effect. Examples of antimicrobial substances include zinc pyrithione or nanosilver, and examples of antiallergenic substances include polyphenol.

[0032] A corresponding filter element is used to filter fluids, i.e., gaseous and / or liquid media, such as air. A gaseous medium or air here also includes gas or air-solid mixtures and / or gas or air-liquid mixtures. For example, an air conditioning system can incorporate the filter element.

[0033] A particularly open filter medium can be designed to remove particles of test dust A4 according to ISO 12103-1 from an air stream with a filtration speed of 0.10 to 0.30 m / s, based on the filter medium area, at an air permeability of more than 3000 l / m 2 s (determined according to ISO 9237 at 200 Pa). The filtration parameters can be determined, for example, according to DIN 71460-1.

[0034] A particularly high-efficiency filter medium can be designed to separate particles of test dust A2 according to ISO 12103-1 as well as NaCI aerosol particles according to DIN 71460-1 from an air stream with a filtration speed of 0.10 to 0.30 m / s, based on the filter media area, at an air permeability of more than 600 l / m 2 s (determined according to ISO 9237 at 200 Pa). The filtration parameters can be determined, for example, according to DIN 71460-1.

[0035] The filter element can have a seal that seals a dirty side associated with the filter element from a clean side of the same. The seal can be designed as a component identical to one or more stabilizing elements of the filter element. Alternatively, the seal can be designed as an additional component. For example, the seal can be attached to the filter medium, the one or more stabilizing elements, the filter element, or the filter housing.

[0036] The filter element can be interchangeably fixed in the filter housing. The engagement between the two engagement elements and the associated mating engagement elements is preferably releasable.

[0037] The filter element or a filter device with the filter element can be used in passenger cars, trucks, construction machinery, watercraft, rail vehicles, aircraft, and generally in air conditioning technology, particularly in heating and air conditioning units, household appliances, fuel cells, or building services. These motor vehicles or vehicles can be powered by electricity and / or fuel (especially gasoline or diesel). With regard to building services, stationary air treatment systems are particularly suitable.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the other of the two engagement elements is connected to the rigid element by means of another elastic element, wherein the other elastic element generates a restoring force acting on the other of the two engagement elements when the two engagement elements are transferred between the locking state and the release state.

[0039] In this variant, at least two elastic elements are provided so that the two engagement elements are each movable relative to the rigid element.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the other of the two engagement elements is rigidly connected to the rigid element.

[0041] Accordingly, only one engagement element is movable relative to the rigid element, while the other engagement element is rigidly (i.e., immovably) coupled to it. The rigid connection between the other engagement element and the rigid element can be direct or indirect. "Direct" is understood here as "without the mechanical interposition of additional elements or components."

[0042] According to one embodiment, one and / or the other elastic element is configured to generate the restoring force due to a flexurally elastic deformation thereof.

[0043] Alternatively, the elastic element can be designed as a tensile / compression-deformable element. In particular, the elastic element is designed as a leaf spring, spiral spring, flat spring, or wave spring.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the rigid element is a flexurally rigid element.

[0045] Alternatively, the rigid element can be a tensile / compressive element. For example, such an element comprises carbon or aramid fibers. According to one embodiment, the rigid element has a greater tensile / compressive stiffness or flexural stiffness than one and / or the other elastic element and / or than the frame in the region of the side surface.

[0046] This ensures that it is essentially one and / or the other elastic element that provides the deformation for the transition between the locked and released states.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the rigid element is an integral part of the frame and / or is designed as a side band of the frame.

[0048] This results in a simple structure that can be manufactured particularly efficiently.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the rigid element is a separate part which is attached, in particular welded or glued, to the side surface of the frame.

[0050] This variant can have material-technical advantages compared to one-piece production.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the restoring force acting on one of the two engagement elements and the restoring force acting on the other of the two engagement elements are directed towards or opposite to each other.

[0052] This allows for a simple locking or latching of the engagement and counter-engagement elements. In particular, the two restoring forces can be directed coaxially.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the two engagement elements are mirror-symmetrical to one another, with a corresponding axis of symmetry pointing in the flow direction.

[0054] This means that in some designs the filter element can be installed in the housing in different orientations.

[0055] According to one embodiment, one and / or the other elastic element is fixed to the rigid element and / or the frame, in particular glued or welded, or is formed in one piece, in particular by plastic injection molding, with the rigid element and / or the frame.

[0056] The attachment of one and / or the other elastic element to the rigid element and / or the frame can be done directly or indirectly. In particular, one and / or the other engagement element can be attached to one or the other elastic element, in particular glued or welded, or formed in one piece, in particular by plastic injection molding, with one or the other elastic element (optionally including the rigid element and / or the frame). Furthermore, the other engagement element (in the variant in which it is rigidly attached to the rigid element) can be attached to the rigid element and / or the frame, in particular glued or welded, or formed in one piece, in particular by plastic injection molding, with the rigid element and / or the frame.

[0057] According to one embodiment, one and / or the other elastic element is fastened to the frame and / or to the rigid element by means of a base, wherein the one and / or the other elastic element points along the flow direction or at an acute angle to this, wherein one and / or the other of the two engagement elements is preferably provided at an end of the one and / or the other elastic element facing away from the base, wherein the elastic element preferably extends parallel to and spaced from the at least one side surface of the frame and / or the rigid element.

[0058] In this case, the elastic element can be designed as a flexible arm. Such an arrangement can be easily manufactured using plastic injection molding, for example.

[0059] According to one embodiment, one and / or the other elastic element is rod-shaped and / or one and / or the other of the two engagement elements is cam-shaped.

[0060] This results in geometries that are easy to manufacture.

[0061] According to one embodiment, one and / or the other elastic element is meander-shaped and / or one and / or the other of the two engagement elements is triangular.

[0062] The meandering shape advantageously allows for a long spring travel. The triangular shape provides a favorable locking geometry.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the rigid element is designed as a flat part. The meandering elastic element preferably runs in or exclusively in the plane of the flat part. The meandering elastic element can be arranged in a window in the flat part, wherein the window can preferably be closed by means of a cover plate.

[0064] This allows the elastic element to be stored in a space-saving and, if necessary, well-protected manner.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the side surface is perpendicular to the flow direction and / or a side band of the frame has the side surface.

[0066] The side surface is preferably opposite the filter housing or a wall thereof with the engagement counter elements.

[0067] According to a further embodiment, the frame has at least two opposite side surfaces, wherein engagement elements are arranged on the at least two side surfaces, which extend away from the filter medium body and can be brought into engagement with respectively assigned engagement counter-elements on the filter housing for fastening the filter element to or in the latter, wherein the engagement elements are preferably mirror-symmetrical to one another with respect to an axis of symmetry which lies in the main extension plane of the filter medium body.

[0068] The filter element can be held particularly securely by means of the engagement elements on both sides.

[0069] According to a further aspect, a filter device, in particular an interior filter device, for example for a motor vehicle, is provided. The filter device comprises: a filter element as described above, and a filter housing to or in which the filter element is fastened, wherein the two engagement elements engage with the associated engagement counter-elements.

[0070] According to one embodiment, an engagement counter-element assigned to one and / or the other of the two engagement elements has an insertion section and a locking section, wherein one and / or the other of the two engagement elements is designed to be guided through the insertion section of the associated engagement counter-element and towards the locking section of the associated engagement counter-element when the filter element is fastened to or in the filter housing, wherein the restoring force secures one and / or the other of the two engagement elements in the locking section against disengagement therefrom, wherein preferably the insertion section is designed to counteract the restoring force in order to change the distance between the two engagement elements.

[0071] This provides a simple way to attach the filter element to the filter housing. The insertion section can end at an edge of the side surface that corresponds, for example, to the raw or clean side of the filter element. The blocking section can, for example, extend parallel to the edge of the side surface.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the insertion section points in the flow direction or at an acute angle thereto. The blocking section can be connected to the insertion section and / or angled relative to it. The blocking section and / or the insertion section can be designed as a groove.

[0073] The locking portion and the insertion portion can be connected to each other to form a continuous groove. An angle between the locking portion and the insertion portion can be, for example, between 30 and 90°, preferably between 70 and 90°, more preferably 90°.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the associated engagement counter-elements each have a blocking section, wherein the blocking sections point away from or towards each other and / or are mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry in the flow direction.

[0075] If the locking sections point away from each other, the first distance between the two engagement elements is smaller than the second distance. In other words, the engagement elements are moved apart to establish the locking state and toward each other to establish the release state.

[0076] If, however, the locking sections point toward each other, the first distance between the two engagement elements is greater than the second distance. In other words, the engagement elements are moved toward each other to establish the locking state.

[0077] Preferably, the two insertion sections associated with the two blocking sections are arranged parallel to each other.

[0078] According to one embodiment, the insertion section has a section acting as an inclined plane on one and / or the other of the two engagement elements, wherein the locking section forms an undercut at one end of the inclined plane.

[0079] By means of the inclined plane, one and / or the other engagement element can be easily transferred into the locked state, since the inclined plane converts a particularly axially directed insertion movement of the filter element into a movement that changes the distance between the engagement elements.

[0080] According to one embodiment, the inclined plane is oriented obliquely to the flow direction and / or the undercut extends transversely to the flow direction.

[0081] This allows for easy installation of the filter element in the filter housing.

[0082] According to one embodiment, one or more of the associated engagement counter-elements has a V-shaped geometry forming the insertion section, which widens at its pointed end to form two undercuts, one of which forms the blocking section. This variant advantageously allows the use of filter elements with engagement elements pointing in different directions. This means that the corresponding filter housing can be used more flexibly.

[0083] In embodiments, it can be provided that the filter element is held in the installation space or in the filter device independently of support surfaces on the filter housing (apart from the engagement counter elements) - in other words "freely suspended".

[0084] Furthermore, the filter device can be designed as a multi-stage filter system in which additional filter elements are positioned on the filter element described above and indirectly held by it. In particular, it can be provided that the filter element according to the invention is indirectly sealed via a further filter element, wherein in particular an axially directed sealing prestressing force is generated by the interaction of the filter element according to the invention with a filter housing and is transmitted to the further filter element through contact with the further filter element. The further filter element here has a housing interface, while the filter element according to the invention is only indirectly sealed from the housing, i.e. via the further filter element. Contact between the filter element according to the invention and the further filter element can take place with the interposition of a seal or even without a seal.

[0085] According to a further aspect, a vehicle with a filter device as described above is proposed.

[0086] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a use of a filter element as described above in a filter device as described above, wherein the two engagement elements are brought into engagement with the associated engagement counter elements.

[0087] According to yet another aspect, a method for fastening a filter element to or in a filter housing is provided. The filter element has a filter body and an at least partially circumferential frame. The method comprises the steps: a) inserting the filter element into the filter housing, and b) engaging two engagement elements of the filter element, which are arranged on a side surface of the frame of the filter element and are connected to one another in a force-conducting manner by means of a rigid element on the side surface, with associated mating engagement elements of the filter housing while changing a distance between the two engagement elements, wherein an elastic element connecting one of the two engagement elements to the rigid element applies a restoring force to one of the engagement elements when the distance changes.

[0088] According to one embodiment, provision b) one and / or the other engagement element is inserted along a (possibly respective) insertion section of the filter housing substantially along the flow direction.

[0089] The features and advantages described for the first aspect apply accordingly to the other aspects described above, and vice versa.

[0090] Numerical designations such as "one" or "two" are not to be understood as limiting the term to exactly "one" or exactly "two." Rather, more than "one" or "two" of the corresponding elements, such as the engagement elements, may be provided, unless otherwise stated. Further possible implementations of the invention also include combinations of features or method steps not explicitly mentioned above or described below with respect to the exemplary embodiments. In this case, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the invention.

[0091] Further embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the invention described below. The invention is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures.

[0092] Short description of the drawings

[0093] It shows:

[0094] Fig. 1 : a schematic representation of a motor vehicle with a filter device;

[0095] Fig. 2: a perspective view of the filter device from Fig. 1, comprising a filter housing with an interior filter accommodated therein;

[0096] Fig. 3: a perspective view of the interior filter from Fig. 2 comprising a frame and a filter medium;

[0097] Fig. 4: a perspective view of the filter medium from Fig. 3;

[0098] Figs. 5A to 5H: different views of an embodiment in which pivotable engagement elements are provided;

[0099] Fig. 6: a variant of the filter housing;

[0100] Figs. 7A to 7F: different views of an embodiment in which linearly movable engagement elements are provided;

[0101] Fig. 8A and 8B: embodiments of a frame with engagement elements;

[0102] Figs. 9A to 9F: different designs using engagement elements that are moved away from each other to establish a locking state;

[0103] Fig. 10A to 10E: the designs of Fig. 9A to 9F, but with the difference that the engagement elements are moved towards each other; and

[0104] Fig. 1 1 : a flowchart of a method according to an embodiment;

[0105] Fig. 12: Longitudinal section of an embodiment of a multi-stage filter system according to the invention.

[0106] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference numerals unless otherwise indicated.

[0107] Embodiment(s) of the invention

[0108] Fig. 1 shows a motor vehicle 1 with an air conditioning system 2, which can be configured as a heating / air conditioning system. The air conditioning system 2 takes in outside air 3 and supplies filtered air 4 to a cabin 5 of the motor vehicle 1. For this purpose, the air conditioning system 2 comprises a filter device 6, shown in Fig. 2.

[0109] The filter device 6 comprises a filter housing 7 with an interior filter 8 (here also referred to as a "filter element") accommodated therein, in particular in a replaceable manner. The interior filter 8 is shown in more detail in Fig. 3. The interior filter 8 has a filter medium 9 (here also referred to as a "filter medium body"), which is connected in particular all around to a frame 10 (Fig. 3). The frame 10 can, for example, comprise side bands 11, 12 and head bands 13, 14. The filter medium 9 is shown isolated in Fig. 4. The filter medium 9 is, for example, a filter fleece, filter fabric, filter scrim, or filter felt, in particular a needle felt. In particular, the filter medium 9 can be produced using a meltblown process. The filter medium 9 can comprise natural fibers, such as cotton, or synthetic fibers, for example, made of polyester, polyphenyl sulfide, or polytetrafluoroethylene. The fibers can be oriented in, obliquely, and / or transversely to the machine direction M during processing.The fibers can also be stretched in one spatial direction. The filter medium 9 can be single-layered or multi-layered.

[0110] The filter medium 9 can have folds 15, which typically extend transversely to the machine direction M. The folded filter medium 9 is also referred to as a pleat. The folds 15 can be created by folding along sharp fold edges 16 (also referred to as "pleat tips") or by a wave-shaped design of the filter medium 9. A respective fold 15 can be defined by two fold sections 15a, which are connected to one another via a corresponding fold edge 16. According to the exemplary embodiment, the fold edges 16 point in or against the inflow direction or flow direction, which is indicated by the arrow L in Fig. 2. The fold can be designed, in particular, as a zigzag fold.

[0111] A pleat arrangement in which the pleats 15 have a varying height H is also possible. Furthermore, the spacing between the pleats 15 can vary, so that the distance A1 is not equal to the distance A2. The filter medium 9 can be designed to be self-supporting, meaning that the pleats 15 are dimensionally stable when subjected to the intended flow during filter operation.

[0112] The filter medium 9 is defined in the machine direction M by end pleats 17, 18. Transversely, the filter medium 9 is defined by pleat end edges 19, 20 (also referred to as pleat profiles). The term "pleat end edge" refers to the end-face pleat surface extending between adjacent pleat edges 16 of a respective pleat 15.

[0113] The filter medium 9 can have a rectangular shape in plan view, i.e., in plane E of its planar extension. However, a triangular, pentagonal, polygonal, round, or oval shape is also conceivable.

[0114] The side bands 11, 12 shown in Fig. 3 are connected to the pleat end edges 19, 20, and the head bands 13, 14 are connected to the end pleats 17, 18, in particular by fusing, welding, or gluing. The side bands 11, 12 and the head bands 13, 14 can form the frame 10 in one piece or in multiple parts. The side bands 11, 12 and the head bands 13, 14 can be made, for example, from a particularly flexible fiber material or as particularly rigid plastic injection-molded components. In particular, the frame 10 can be produced by injection molding onto the filter medium 9.

[0115] The filter medium 9 can function as a particle filter and filter out particles, in particular dust, suspended matter or liquid droplets, from the intake air 3. In addition, the filter medium 9 can function as an odor filter. For this purpose, it can, for example, have a layer of activated carbon. The filter medium 9 can generally be designed to absorb or adsorb certain solid, liquid and / or gaseous substances. During filter operation, air L flows through the filter medium 9, as shown in Fig. 2, perpendicular to its planar extent. The air L flows from a dirty side RO of the cabin filter 8 to a clean side RE thereof.

[0116] To ensure adequate sealing between the dirty and clean sides RO, RE, a seal can be provided between the cabin filter 9 and the filter housing 7. The seal can, for example, be integrated into the frame 10. In this case, the frame 10 is at least partially formed from a sealing material. Alternatively, the seal can be provided as an additional part, for example, attached to the frame 10, in particular, molded onto it. Such a seal 21 is shown as an example and in detail in Fig. 3.

[0117] The features described in connection with Figs. 1 to 4 apply accordingly to the embodiments explained below according to Figs. 5A ff.

[0118] Figs. 5A to 5H show a first embodiment. Referring first to Figs. 5A and 5B, these show, in perspective and separated from each other, i.e., in the unassembled state, a filter element 8 and a filter housing 7. These can be assembled to form a filter device 6, shown in perspective in Fig. 5C, with the filter element 8 being releasably secured in the filter housing 7.

[0119] Fig. 5A shows a side band 11 of the frame 10—here, for example, a closed frame—with a side surface 22. The side surface 22 preferably faces in a direction perpendicular to the flow direction L. Two engagement elements 23a, 23b protrude from the side surface 22. This means that, in a plan view of the filter element 8, the engagement elements 23a, 23b protrude outwardly from the filter medium 9.

[0120] Preferably, two further engagement elements (not visible in Figs. 5A to 5c because they are concealed) are arranged on the side surface of the opposite side band 12. More than two engagement elements may also be provided on one or both side bands 11, 12.

[0121] The engagement elements 23a, 23b can each be brought into engagement with a counter-engagement element 24a, 24b (Fig. 5B) of the filter housing 7. This then corresponds to the assembled state of the filter device 6, as shown in Fig. 5C. The reference numeral lines of the reference numerals 24a, 24b are shown in dashed lines, as they each indicate the outer side of a projection 25a, 25b (or projection) forming a counter-engagement element 24a, 24b on its inner side. The projections 25a, 25b are formed on a wall 26a of the filter housing 7. Instead of the projections 25a, 25b, the counter-engagement elements 24a, 24b can be formed in the wall thickness of the wall 26a.

[0122] However, the engagement counter-elements 24c, 24d are clearly visible; they are provided opposite the engagement counter-elements 24a, 24b on a wall 26b of the filter housing 7. The walls 26a, 26b can be part of a closed frame of the filter housing 7, which—in the assembled state—completely surrounds the filter element 8 at its periphery lying in its main extension plane H1.

[0123] In particular, the engagement elements 23a, 23b can be designed symmetrically to the engagement elements not shown in Figs. 5A to 5C, specifically with respect to an axis of symmetry SY1 arranged centrally between and parallel to the side bands 11, 12, which axis is also located in the main extension plane H1 of the filter element 8. Alternatively or additionally, the counter-engagement elements 24a, 24b can also be designed mirror-symmetrically to the counter-engagement elements 24c, 24d about an axis SY2. The axis SY2 lies centrally between and parallel to the walls 26a, 26b and, furthermore, in the main extension plane H2 of the filter housing 7. However, non-symmetrical designs are also conceivable.

[0124] For example, in some embodiments, the filter housing 7 may have only the wall 26a. In this case, the filter element 8 can be attached to the filter housing 7 on only one side by means of the engagement elements 23a, 23b and the engagement counter-elements 24a, 24b.

[0125] Fig. 5D shows an exploded view of the filter element 8 from Fig. 5A. The filter element 8 comprises rigid elements 27a, 27b, which are designed here as separate parts and can be made, for example, from a plastic. According to the exemplary embodiment, the rigid elements 27a, 27b are designed as elongated, for example, rectangular flat parts. The rigid element 27a is attached to the side band 11, and the rigid element 27b is attached to the side band 12, for example, welded or glued. In particular, the rigid elements 27a, 27b extend parallel to the respective side bands 11 and 12, respectively.

[0126] The rigid element 27a carries the engagement elements 23a, 23b, and the rigid element 27b carries the opposing engagement elements 23c, 23d—partially visible here. As explained below, representative of the other engagement elements using the engagement element 23b as an example, this has a cam shape, although other contours are also conceivable. The engagement element 23b is attached to one end—the lower end in Fig. 5D—of an elastic element 28b. At its other end—the upper end in Fig. 5D, the elastic element 28b is attached to a base 29b. The base 29b is in turn attached to the rigid element 27a. The elastic element 28b is formed, for example, in the form of a flat spring. The engagement element 23b, the elastic element 28b, the base 29b and, if applicable, the rigid element 27a can be manufactured as a one-piece component, in particular from plastic and, if applicable, by injection molding.

[0127] Fig. 5E shows a view VE from Fig. 5D and illustrates that the elastic element 28b extends parallel to and spaced from the side surface 22 (which has been added there compared to Fig. 5D). In particular, the elastic element 28b can extend parallel to or at an acute angle to the flow direction L.

[0128] As illustrated in Fig. 5F, which shows a side view of Fig. 5A, the elastic element 28b allows pivoting of the engagement element 23b about the base 29b, as indicated by the double arrow, wherein the force-free initial position (which may correspond to the locked state) of the engagement element 23b is shown in solid lines and the pivoted-out position (corresponds to the released state) of the engagement element 23b is shown in dashed lines. Upon pivoting into the pivoted-out position, the elastic element 28b is elastically deformed, thereby generating a restoring force RK1.

[0129] The same applies to the engagement element 23a, also shown in Fig. 5F, which is articulated to a base 29a by means of an elastic element 28a. The engagement element 23a can be pivoted in the opposite direction to the engagement element 23b. When pivoted into the pivoted-out position shown in dashed lines, the engagement element 23a generates a restoring force RK2, which is directed counter to the restoring force RK1. According to the exemplary embodiment, the engagement elements 23a, 23b or the corresponding cams point away from one another and are mirror-symmetrical to one another with respect to an axis SY3. The axis SY3 extends parallel to the flow direction L and preferably divides the side band 11 into two equal halves.

[0130] The restoring forces RK1 and RK2 cause a force flow that leads from the engagement element 23b through the elastic element 28b, through the base 29b, through the rigid element 27a into the base 29b, into the elastic element 28a and into the engagement element 23a. The corresponding bending moment caused by the restoring forces RK1, RK2 is completely absorbed by the rigid element 27a, which is why, according to the exemplary embodiment, this is a rigid element. Accordingly, the side band 11 does not bend, or only bends insignificantly, when the filter element 8 is mounted in the housing 9. In particular, the rigid element 27a has a greater bending stiffness (in other variants, additionally or alternatively, a greater tensile / compressive stiffness) than the respective elastic element 28a, 28b and than the side band 11. The bending stiffness here means a bending stiffness about an axis BA (Fig. 5A) perpendicular to the side surface 22.For example, in particular by suitable choice of material, an E-modulus of the rigid element 27a can be greater than an E-modulus of the respective elastic element 28a, 28b and than an E-modulus of the sideband 11.

[0131] The pivoted-out position of the engagement elements 23a, 23b, shown by a dashed line, corresponds in this case to a release state. In this state, the engagement elements 23a, 23b are at a first distance D1 from one another. Fig. 5G shows a section VG from Fig. 5C. Fig. 5G illustrates the locked state, in which the engagement elements 23a, 23b are in engagement with the respectively associated counter-engagement element 24a, 24b. In the locked state, the engagement elements 23a, 23b are at a second distance D2 from one another. The distance D2 can be smaller than or equal to a distance D3 shown in Fig. 5F. The engagement elements 23a, 23b have the distance D3 when the elastic elements 28a, 28b are in an undeformed (force-free) state. The undeformed state corresponds to the unassembled state of the filter housing 7 and the filter element 8, i.e. when these are available as separate parts.If the distance D2 is smaller than the distance D3, this means that the engagement elements 23a, 23b rest against the engagement counter elements 24a, 24b with a preload in the locked state.

[0132] Fig. 5H shows a section VH from Fig. 5B. The shape of the engagement counter-elements 24a, 24b is explained in more detail below with reference to Figs. 5G and 5H. These each comprise - as explained with reference to the engagement counter-element 24b, representative of all engagement counter-elements of the present embodiment - an insertion section 30b and a blocking section 31b, which are formed as a continuous groove in the projection 25b (Fig. 5B). The insertion section 30b is, as shown in Fig. 5B, open to an edge 33 (upper in Fig. 5B) of the frame 10. A corresponding opening is designated 34b. The insertion section 30b forms an inclined plane 32b (Fig. 5H), which is inclined, for example, at an angle of 5 to 45 degrees to the flow direction L.

[0133] When assembling the filter element 8 in the filter housing 7, the former is inserted into the latter—in Fig. 5A and 5b from above. For this purpose, the engagement elements 23a to 23d are inserted into the respectively associated openings 34a to 34d. The inclined plane 32b causes the engagement element 23b to pivot from its initial position into its pivoted-out position and finally, at the end of the inclined plane 32b, snap outward into an undercut 35b (Fig. 5H) of the blocking section 31b, as shown in Fig. 5G. In the opposite direction, the engagement element 23a moves along the inclined plane 32a, which is arranged mirror-symmetrically about an axis of symmetry SY4 to the inclined plane 32b. The axis of symmetry SY4 is arranged parallel to the flow direction L and preferably divides the wall 26a into two equal halves. At the end of the movement, the engagement element 23a snaps outwards into the undercut 35a."Outward" here means that the engagement elements 23a, 23b move away from each other to engage with the respective undercut 35a, 35b. The distance between the engagement elements 23a, 23b thus changes from initially D3, then to D1, and finally to D2 (where D2 can be equal to DD3).

[0134] If the engagement elements 23a to 23d are all arranged in the respective associated locking sections 31a, 31b (the other locking sections are not designated by reference numerals here) or locked thereto, all six degrees of freedom of the filter element 8 are locked. To release the connection, the engagement elements 23a to 23d, or at least one of them on each side (corresponding to the side bands 11, 12), are moved, for example, by hand, into the respective pivoted-out position.

[0135] In the variant shown in particular in Fig. 5H, the insertion section 30b and the blocking section 31b are themselves designed symmetrically. This means that the inclined plane 32b is opposite a further inclined plane 36b, so that the inclined planes 32b, 36b complement each other to form a V-shaped geometry. The undercut 35b is opposite a further undercut 37b, so that the V-shaped geometry widens again on both sides at its pointed end. This variant is advantageous in that it also allows filter elements 8 to be inserted into the filter housing 7, in which filter elements 8 the engagement elements 23a, 23b are pivoted away from each other in order to reach the pivoted-out position, i.e. the distance D1 is greater than the distance D2 or D3.

[0136] In contrast, Fig. 6 shows, in a view corresponding to the view in Fig. 5H, an embodiment in which the insertion section 30b and the locking section 31b are asymmetrically formed. On the inside ("inside" here means the area between the two engagement counter-elements 24a, 24b), the insertion section 30b and the locking section 31b are each delimited by a straight wall 38b, although this is also not required and could be designed differently.

[0137] Figs. 7A to 7F show a further embodiment. The filter housing 7 here corresponds, for example, to that shown in Fig. 5B or Fig. 6. Differences arise with regard to the engagement elements 23a, 23b and their connection to the rigid element 27a. The views of Figs. 7A to 7D correspond to those of Figs. 5A to 5D. Fig. 7E corresponds to the view shown in Fig. 5G. Fig. 7F shows an exploded view of the rigid element 27a.

[0138] The engagement elements 23a, 23b are provided here exclusively linearly and in particular parallel to the longitudinal direction LE (Fig. 7A) of the side band 11 in order to adjust them between the release state (distance D1 in Fig. 7F) and the blocking state (distance D2 in Fig. 7F and Fig. 7E).

[0139] In detail, the rigid element 27a can be arranged in a pocket 39 in the side band 11, as shown in Fig. 7D. Alternatively, the rigid element 27a can also be glued to the side band 11.

[0140] The rigid element 27a is designed, for example, as a rectangular flat part and, as can be seen in Fig. 7F, has a rigid section 40, to which two frames 41a, 41b are connected in the longitudinal direction LE. Each frame 41a, 41d defines a window 42a, 42b on the inside. The elastic elements 28a, 28b are meander-shaped in this embodiment and are supported at one end 43a, 43b on a frame element 44a, 44b of the respective window 42a, 42b, wherein the respective frame element 44a, 44b faces the rigid section 40. At its other end, the respective elastic element 28a, 28b carries the engagement element 23a, 23b. The meandering shape extends in a space-saving manner exclusively in the plane of the respective window 42a, 42b or in the plane of the rigid element 27a and allows the purely linear mobility of the respective engagement element 23a, 23b.The respective engagement element 23a, 23b has a guide section 46a, 46b, which is guided for linear displacement in a guide counter section 47a, 47b in the respective window 42a, 42b. Facing away from the guide section 46a, 46b, the respective engagement element 23a, 23b has a contour, for example, triangular, which is designed for engagement in the corresponding locking section 31a, 31b (Fig. 7C). The respective window 42a, 42b can be covered or covered by a cover plate 49a, 49b. This serves the particular purpose of protecting the meandering elastic elements 28a, 28b. The cover plates 49a, 49b are each designed with an opening 50a, 50b which allows the engagement elements 23a, 23b to pass through when the cover plate 49a, 49b is mounted on the rigid element 27a.

[0141] The rigid section 40, the frames 41a, 41b, the elastic elements 28a, 28b and the engagement elements 23a, 23b can be manufactured as a one-piece plastic component, in particular by injection molding.

[0142] Fig. 8A illustrates an embodiment in which the rigid, in particular flexurally rigid, element 27a is a component of the side band 11, i.e., is integrated into it. For this purpose, the side band 11—at least in the section extending between the bases 29a, 29b assigned to the engagement elements 23a, 23b—can be made of a rigid plastic material. Alternatively or additionally, fibers, for example carbon and / or aramid fibers, can be integrated into the material of the side band 11 to increase its rigidity. In this variant, it is preferred that the frame 10 with the side band 11 (including the rigid element 27a, bases 29a, 29b, elastic elements 28a, 28b, and engagement elements 23a, 23b) is injection-molded onto the filter medium 9.

[0143] Alternatively, an additional frame 50 can be provided, as shown in Fig. 8B. This frame comprises, for example, four frame elements 51a to 51d. The frame element 51a forms the rigid element 27a. The engagement elements 23a, 23b are attached to its side surface 22. The filter medium 9, together with its frame 10, is then connected to the additional frame 50. In particular, the additional frame 50 can be manufactured beforehand as a separate (e.g., plastic) part, in particular by injection molding. Alternatively, the frame 50 is injection-molded directly onto the frame 10.

[0144] Figs. 9A to 9F illustrate various embodiments and incorporate embodiments already described above. Common to these embodiments, as illustrated in Fig. 9A, is that the locking with the locking sections 31a, 31b occurs due to the distance between the engagement elements 23a, 23b increasing upon transition from the release state to the lock state, i.e., the second distance D2 (lock state) is greater than the first distance D1 (release state). According to Fig. 9B, the engagement elements 23a, 23b are each pivotable and coupled to their respective associated bases 29a, 29b by means of a rigid element 27a, which is designed as an additional component.

[0145] In contrast to Fig. 9B, in the embodiment according to Fig. 9C, the bases 29a, 29b are each connected to the side band 11 by means of a plate 52a, 52b, wherein the side band 11 has the rigid element integrated.

[0146] In the embodiment according to Fig. 9D, in contrast to that according to Fig. 9B, the engagement element 23a is rigid and directly connected to the rigid element 27a, for example, manufactured in one piece with it. This means that the engagement element 23a is not movable with respect to the rigid element 27a or the side band 11. The relative mobility to the engagement element 23b derives from its pivotability due to its articulation to the base 29b by means of the elastic element 28b. The rigid element 27a together with the engagement elements 23a, 23b is shown in perspective in Fig. 9E. There it can be seen that the engagement element 23a is designed as a pin which is free at one end and connected to the rigid element 27a at its other end.

[0147] Fig. 9F illustrates a variant compared to Fig. 9D, in which the engagement elements 23a, 23b are each connected to the side band 11 by means of a plate 52a, 52b, wherein the side band 11 has or forms the rigid element 27a integrated.

[0148] Figs. 10A to 10E correspond to Figs. 9A to 9D and 9F, with the difference that the distance between the engagement elements 23a, 23b decreases when transitioning from the released state to the locked state, i.e., the second distance D2 (locked state) is smaller than the first distance D1 (released state). Accordingly, the restoring forces RK1, RK2 are directed toward each other.

[0149] Fig. 1 1 shows an embodiment of the method in a flow chart.

[0150] In a step S1, the filter element 8 is inserted into the filter housing 7.

[0151] In a step S2, the engagement elements 23a, 23b are brought into engagement with the corresponding engagement counter-elements 24a, 24b, whereby at least the restoring force RK1 (see, for example, Fig. 9D with an elastic element 28b) or two restoring forces RK1, RK2 (see, for example, Figs. 9B and 5F with two elastic elements 28a, 28b) are applied. Bending moments or tensile / compressive forces resulting from the restoring forces RK1, RK2 are absorbed in the rigid element 27a, so that, preferably, the side band 11 does not bend or bends only slightly.

[0152] Fig. 12 shows a longitudinal section through a multi-stage filter device 6 according to the invention. This comprises a filter element 8 according to the invention and at least one further filter element 81. In embodiments, the multi-stage filter device 6 comprises two or more further filter elements 81, 82. The at least two filter elements 8, 81, 82 are flowed through serially, for example in the flow direction L. At least one of the filter elements 8, 81, 82 can have a gas filter medium comprising at least one adsorbent. Another of the filter elements 8, 81, 82 can have a particle filter medium, in particular comprising a HEPA filter medium. The multi-stage filter device 6 is particularly suitable for use as an intake air filter of a fuel cell system or as a cabin air filter of a motor vehicle.The filter element 8 according to the invention is held in the manner described herein via its engagement elements 23a, 23b in corresponding counter-engagement elements of the filter housing 7. In the merely exemplary embodiment, the housing-side counter-engagement elements are present on a first housing part 71, which provides a receiving space for the filter element 8 according to the invention. Furthermore, the first housing part 71 can also provide a receiving space for at least one further filter element 81, 82. In addition to the first housing part 71, which can in particular be a housing base, the filter housing 7 has a second housing part 72, which can in particular be a housing cover.

[0153] The filter element 8 according to the invention is only indirectly sealed against the filter housing 7 via the further filter element 81, in particular via the further filter elements 81, 82. In this case, a frame 10 of the filter element 8 according to the invention lies sealingly against the second filter element 81, in particular against its frame. A seal 21 can be located between them, which can be held, for example, on the filter element 8 according to the invention or on the further filter element 81 or can be loosely inserted. The further filter element 81, in turn, lies sealingly against a yet further filter element 82, which in turn lies sealingly, i.e. directly, on the filter housing 7, in particular on the first housing part 71, via a housing seal 21'. In an embodiment not shown in the figure, the filter device 6 comprises exactly two filter elements, one filter element 8 according to the invention and only one further filter element 81.In this case, the housing seal 21' is located between the further filter element 81 and the filter housing 7.

[0154] The seals 21, 21' can, in particular, be axial seals. The filter element 8 according to the invention can, in particular, be inserted into the housing 7 such that the seals 21 are prestressed. A force curve of the sealing force K is shown schematically with arrows.The force curve of the sealing force K runs from the engagement of the engagement elements 23a23b of the filter element 8 according to the invention, through the frame of the filter element 8 according to the invention, the seal 21 between the filter element 8 according to the invention and the further filter element 81, the frame of the further filter element 81, the seal between the further filter element 81 and the yet further filter element, the frame of the yet further filter element 82 into the housing seal 22, where this finally effects the sealing of the yet further filter element 82 with respect to the housing 7 as an effective sealing force, so that the entirety of the filter elements 8, 81, 82 is indirectly sealed with respect to the housing 7.

[0155] The housing has a housing sealing surface 711 against which the housing seal 21' sealingly rests. The housing sealing surface 711 is designed in particular as an axial sealing surface.

[0156] Although the present invention has been explained in more detail using preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in many ways.

[0157] 1 motor vehicle BA axle

[0158] 2 air conditioning H1 , H2 main extension level

[0159] 3 Outside air L Flow direction

[0160] 4 Air LE Longitudinal direction

[0161] 5 Cabin RE clean side / outflow side

[0162] 6 Filter device RK1 , RK2 restoring force

[0163] 7 Filter housing RO raw side / inflow side

[0164] 71 First housing part S1 , S2 Step

[0165] 711 Housing sealing surface SY1 - SY4 symmetry axis

[0166] 72 Second housing part K Force curve of the sealing

[0167] 8 Cabin filter / filter element tension forces

[0168] 81 , 82 Additional filter element

[0169] 9 Filter medium / filter medium body

[0170] 10 frames

[0171] 11 sideband

[0172] 12 sideband

[0173] 13 head band

[0174] 14 head band

[0175] 15 folds

[0176] 15a Folding section

[0177] 16 fold edge

[0178] 17 End fold

[0179] 18 End fold

[0180] 19 Pleat front edge

[0181] 20 Pleat front edge

[0182] 21 Seal

[0183] 21 ' housing seal

[0184] 22 side surface

[0185] 23a - 23d engagement element

[0186] 24a - 24d engagement counter element

[0187] 25a, 25b projection

[0188] 26a, 26b wall

[0189] 27a, 27b rigid element

[0190] 28a, 28b elastic element

[0191] 29a, 29b base

[0192] 30a, 30b Introductory section

[0193] 31a, 31b restricted section

[0194] 32a, 32b inclined plane 33 edge

[0195] 34a - 34d Opening

[0196] 35a, 35b undercut

[0197] 36b inclined plane

[0198] 37b undercut

[0199] 38b Wall

[0200] 39 bag

[0201] 40 stiff section

[0202] 41a, 41b frame

[0203] 42a, 42b windows

[0204] 43a, 43b End of the elastic element

[0205] 44a, 44b frame element

[0206] 46a, 46b guide section

[0207] 47a, 47b guide counter section

[0208] 49a, 49b Cover plate 50 frame

[0209] 50a, 50b Opening 51a - 51d Frame elements

[0210] 52a, 52b platelets

[0211] A1, A2 distances

Claims

Claims Filter element (8), in particular for an interior filter device (6), for example for a motor vehicle (1), wherein the filter element (8) can be fastened to or in a filter housing (7), wherein the filter element (8) comprises: - a filter medium body (9), - a frame (10, 50) at least partially surrounding the filter medium body (9), - two engagement elements (23a, 23b) arranged on a side surface (22) of the frame (10, 50), which extend away from the filter medium body (9) and can be brought into engagement with respectively associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b) on the filter housing (7) for fastening the filter element (8) to or in the latter, - a rigid element (27a) which connects the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) on the side surface (22) in a force-conducting manner, - wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are designed to be disengaged from the associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b) in a release state thereof and to be engaged with them in a blocking state thereof, wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) have a first distance (D1) from each other in the release state and a second distance (D2) different from the first distance in the blocking state, - wherein at least one (23b) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is connected to the rigid element (27a) on the side surface (22) by means of an elastic element (28b), wherein the elastic element (28b) generates a restoring force (RK1) acting on one (23b) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) when the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are transferred between the locked state and the released state. Filter element according to claim 1, wherein the other (23a) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is connected to the rigid element (27a) by means of another elastic element (28a), wherein the other elastic element (28a) generates a restoring force (RK2) acting on the other (23a) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) when the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are transferred between the locked state and the released state.Filter element according to claim 1, wherein the other (23a) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is rigidly connected to the rigid element (27a). Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) is configured to generate the restoring force (RK1, RK2) due to a flexurally elastic deformation thereof. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid element (27a) is a flexurally rigid element. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid element (27a) has a greater tensile / compressive stiffness or flexural stiffness than one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) and / or than that of the frame (10, 50) in the region of the side surface (22). Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid element (27a) is a one-. is a piece component of the frame (10, 50) and / or is designed as a side band (11, 51 a) of the frame (10, 50).

8. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid element (27a) is a separate part which is fastened, in particular welded or glued, to the side surface (22) of the frame (10, 50).

9. Filter element according to one of claims 2 - 8, wherein the restoring force (RK1) acting on one (23b) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) and the restoring force (RK2) acting on the other (23a) of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are directed towards or opposite to each other.

10. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are mirror-symmetrical to one another, wherein a corresponding axis of symmetry (SY3) points in the flow direction (L).

11. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) is attached to the rigid element (27a) and / or the frame (10, 50), in particular glued or welded, or formed in one piece, in particular by plastic injection molding, with the rigid element (27a) and / or the frame (10, 50).

12. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) is fastened to the frame (10, 50) and / or to the rigid element (27a) by means of a base (29a, 29b), wherein the one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) points along the flow direction (L) or at an acute angle to it, wherein one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is preferably provided at an end of the one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) facing away from the base (29a, 29b), wherein the elastic element (28a, 28b) preferably extends parallel to and spaced from the at least one side surface (22) of the frame (10, 50) and / or the rigid element (27a).

13. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) is rod-shaped and / or one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is cam-shaped.

14. Filter element according to one of claims 1 - 12, wherein one and / or the other elastic element (28a, 28b) is meander-shaped and / or one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is triangular.

15. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the rigid element (27a) is designed as a flat part and / or the meandering elastic element (28a, 28b) runs in or exclusively in the plane of the flat part and / or is arranged in a window (42a, 42b) in the flat part, wherein preferably the window (42a, 42b) is closable by means of a cover plate (49a, 49b).

16. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the side surface (22) points perpendicular to the flow direction (L) and / or wherein a side band (11, 51 a) of the frame (10, 50) has the side surface (22).

17. Filter element according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (10, 50) has at least two opposite side surfaces (22), wherein on the at least two side surfaces (22) two engagement elements (23a - 23d) are arranged in each case, which extend away from the filter medium body (9) and can be brought into engagement with respectively associated engagement counter-elements (24a - 24d) on the filter housing (7) for fastening the filter element (8) to or in the latter, wherein preferably the engagement elements (23a - 23d) are mirror-symmetrical to one another with respect to an axis of symmetry (SY1) which lies in the main extension plane (H1) of the filter medium body (9).

18. Filter device (6), in particular an interior filter device, for example for a motor vehicle (1), comprising: a filter element (8) according to one of claims 1 - 17, and a filter housing (7) on or in which the filter element (8) is fastened, wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are in engagement with the associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b).

19. Filter device according to claim 18, wherein an engagement counter-element (24a, 24b) associated with one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) has an insertion section (30a, 30b) and a blocking section (31a, 31b), wherein the one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) is designed to be guided through the insertion section (30a, 30b) of the associated engagement counter-element (24a, 24b) and towards the blocking section (31a, 31b) of the associated engagement counter-element (24a, 24b) when the filter element (8) is attached to or in the filter housing (7), wherein the restoring force (RK1, RK2) holds the one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) in the blocking section (31a, 31b). a, 31 b) against disengagement therefrom, wherein preferably the insertion section (30a, 30b) is designed to counteract the restoring force (RK1, RK2) in order to maintain the distance (D1,D2) between the two engagement elements (23a, 23b)., 20. Filter device according to claim 19, wherein the insertion section (30a, 30b) points in the flow direction (L) or at an acute angle thereto and / or the blocking section (31a, 31b) is connected to the insertion section (30a, 30b) and / or is angled relative thereto and / or wherein the insertion section (30a, 30b) and / or the blocking section (31a, 31b) are designed as a groove.

21. Filter device according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b) each have a blocking section (31a, 31b), wherein the blocking sections (31a, 31b) point away from one another or towards one another and / or are mirror-symmetrical with respect to an axis of symmetry (SY4) in the flow direction (L).

22. Filter device according to one of claims 19 - 21, wherein the insertion section (30a, 30b) has a section acting as an inclined plane (32a, 32b) on one and / or the other of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b), wherein the blocking section (31a, 31b) forms an undercut (35a, 35b) at one end of the inclined plane (32a, 32b).

23. Filter device according to claim 22, wherein the inclined plane (32a, 32b) is oriented obliquely to the flow direction (L) and / or the undercut (35a, 35b) extends transversely to the flow direction (L).

24. Filter device according to one of claims 19 - 23, wherein one of the associated engagement counter-element(s) (24a, 24b) has a V-shaped geometry forming the insertion section (30a, 30b), which widens at its pointed end to form two undercuts (35b, 37b), wherein one of the undercuts (35b, 37b) forms the blocking section (31a, 31b).

25. Filter device according to one of claims 18 - 24, comprising at least one further filter element (81, 82) which is arranged adjacent to the filter element (8) in the flow direction (L), wherein the further filter element (81, 82) and the filter element (8) can be flowed through in particular serially, wherein the further filter element (81, 82) is held in the filter housing via the filter element (8), and wherein in particular the filter element (8) is sealed indirectly via the further filter element (81, 82) with respect to the filter housing (7).

26. Vehicle (1) with a filter device (6) according to one of claims 18 - 25.

27. Use of a filter element (8) according to one of claims 1 - 17 in a filter device (6) according to one of claims 18 - 25, wherein the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) are brought into engagement with the associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b).

28. Method for fastening a filter element (8) to or in a filter housing (7), wherein the filter element (8) has a filter body (9) and an at least partially circumferential frame (10, 50), the method comprising: a) inserting (S1) the filter element (8) into the filter housing (7), and b) engaging (S2) two engagement elements (23a, 23b) of the filter element (8), which are arranged on a side surface (22) of the frame (10, 50) of the filter element (8) and are connected to one another in a force-conducting manner by means of a rigid element (27a) on the side surface (22), with associated engagement counter-elements (24a, 24b) of the filter housing (7) while changing a distance (D1, D2) between the two engagement elements (23a, 23b), wherein one of the two engagement elements (23a, 23b) an elastic element (28b) connecting to the rigid element (27a) applies a restoring force (RK1) to the one engagement element (23a, 23b) when the distance (D1, D2) changes.

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