Multi-zone filtration monitoring systems and methods

Abstract

To provide a vehicle filtration sensor system that may be associated with elements of a filtration system, and that acquires and stores important data for monitoring the operation of the filtration system and / or the maintenance of the filtration system.SOLUTION: A filtration monitoring system comprises: a plurality of fluid filtration housings on a vehicle; a plurality of fluid filter elements associated with the filtration housings; a plurality of wireless communication tags 132, 134, 136, 138 associated with the fluid filter elements; a plurality of zone antennas 124, 126, 128, 130 configured to cover different space zones, and including at least a first zone antenna in communication with a first wireless communication tag, and a second zone antenna in communication with a second wireless communication tag; and a wireless communication reader 102 in wired communication with the plurality of zone antennas, the wireless communication reader configured to wirelessly send data to and receive data from the wireless communication tags via the zone antennas.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application was filed as a PCT international patent application on June 5, 2020, in the name of U.S. company DONALDSON COMPANY, INC., the designated applicant in all countries, and U.S. citizen Danny William Miller, the designated inventor in all countries, and claims the priority of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 893,347 filed on June 4, 2020 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 857,559 filed on June 5, 2019, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety for reference.

[0002] Embodiments herein relate to a filtration monitoring system and method. More specifically, embodiments herein relate to a multi-zone filtration monitoring system and method.

Background Art

[0003] Fluid flow can carry particulate material or other contaminants therein. In many cases, it is desirable to remove some or all of the particulate material from the fluid flow. For example, the air intake or fuel path for an electric vehicle's engine or generator, the gas flow directed to a gas turbine, the air flow to various combustion furnaces, etc. often contain particulate material or other contaminants therein. If they reach the internal components of the various mechanisms involved, the particulate material or contaminants can cause significant damage. Therefore, various filtration systems, including air filters, fuel filters, gas filters, etc., have been developed for particle and / or contaminant removal. Many filtration systems may require periodic monitoring and maintenance (such as replacement and / or service of filter elements, etc.) to ensure proper operation.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] Embodiments of this specification relate to a multi-zone filtration monitoring system and method. In a first aspect, a filtration monitoring system is included that has a plurality of filtration enclosures, a plurality of filter elements associated with the filtration enclosures, a plurality of wireless communication tags associated with the filter elements, a plurality of zone antennas, and a wireless communication reader that communicates wired with the plurality of zone antennas. The wireless communication reader may be configured to wirelessly transmit and receive data to and from the wireless communication tags via the zone antennas.

[0005] In a second aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the zone antennas may form components of separate communication channels, and the wireless communication reader may further include a multiplexer for switching between the separate communication channels.

[0006] In a third aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, separate communication channels may be associated with various filtration enclosures.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, separate communication channels may be associated with various filtration zones.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the separate communication channels may be associated with a first filtration zone but spatially overlap with a second filtration zone.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the zone antennas may include UHF antennas.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the zone antennas has a different effective communication range.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the zone antennas may have a directivity different from one or more of the other zone antennas.

[0012] In a ninth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the wireless communication tag may include a power receiving antenna.

[0013] In a tenth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration housing may define an internal volume in which the filter element fits.

[0014] In an eleventh aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration housing may define a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet.

[0015] In a twelfth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet may be adjacent to a first end of the housing.

[0016] In a thirteenth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least some of the filter elements may include a cylindrical outer shape and may define a central channel.

[0017] In a fourteenth aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least some of the filter elements may include an elliptical outer shape and may not define a central channel.

[0018] In a 15th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the wireless communication reader may calculate a signal strength between the antenna and the wireless communication tag.

[0019] In a 16th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the signal strength may reflect a distance between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag.

[0020] In a 17th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system may further include a system controller configured to receive an electrical signal from the wireless communication reader and further configured to identify a pattern within the electrical signal received from the wireless communication reader.

[0021] In an 18th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system controller may be configured to identify a pattern that indicates a filtration system operation event.

[0022] In a 19th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration system operation event may include at least one of a filter element removal, a filter element installation, a filter element reinstallation, and a filter cleaning event.

[0023] In a 20th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system controller may be configured to identify a pattern within the electrical signal received from the wireless communication reader, and detection of a wireless communication tag that exits and then re-enters the zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event.

[0024] In a 21st aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system may be configured to increment and store a count of detected filter element events and / or reinstallation events.

[0025] In a 22nd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the count of detected filter element removal events or reinstallation events may be configured to be stored within a memory circuit that is part of a wireless communication tag.

[0026] In a 23rd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one filtration housing and associated filtration elements are integrated as a spin-on canister filter.

[0027] In a 24th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system may further include at least one associated with a zone and a wireless communication tag, at least one zone antenna, or a sensor that communicates wired with a wireless communication reader.

[0028] In a 25th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the sensor may include a pressure sensor.

[0029] In a 26th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the sensor may include a differential pressure sensor.

[0030] In a 27th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the sensor may include a proximity sensor.

[0031] In a 28th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the wireless communication tag may include a memory storage circuit.

[0032] In a 29th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the wireless communication tag may store information regarding a filter element model and a serial number within the memory storage circuit.

[0033] In a 30th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the filtration housings may include an air intake filter housing.

[0034] In a 31st aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the filtration housings may include a fuel filter housing.

[0035] In a 32nd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one of the filtration housings may include a cabin air filter housing.

[0036] In a 33rd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the electrical characteristics of the wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna change significantly.

[0037] In a 34th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the electrical characteristics of the wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna change significantly based on the electrical characteristics of the conductor interconnecting the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna.

[0038] In a 35th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration monitoring system may be configured to determine the current position of the wireless communication tag based on communication between the wireless communication tag and at least two spatially separated zone antennas.

[0039] In a 36th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, at least one wireless communication tag carries a unique tag ID.

[0040] In a 37th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration monitoring system may be configured to store data including the unique tag ID, the zone where the unique tag ID was present, and a time stamp related to the zone.

[0041] A 38th aspect includes a filtration system having a plurality of filtration housings configured to accommodate filter elements, a plurality of zone antennas configured to wirelessly communicate with a wireless communication tag associated with the filter element, and a wireless communication reader configured to control communication with the wireless communication tag and to communicate wiredly with the plurality of zone antennas.

[0042] A 39th aspect includes a vehicle sensor system having a plurality of zone antennas, a wireless communication reader that communicates wiredly with the plurality of zone antennas, a plurality of wireless communication tags that communicate wirelessly with the zone antennas, and a filtration housing, with at least one of the wireless communication tags being associated with the filtration housing, and at least one of the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna being positioned with a measurement zone disposed therebetween, the measurement zone affecting the signal strength of communication between the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna.

[0043] In a 40th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the measurement zone covers at least a portion of the fuel tank.

[0044] In a 41st aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the wireless communication tag is disposed within the fuel tank.

[0045] In a 42nd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the measurement zone covers at least a part of the cab area of the vehicle or the control zone of the vehicle.

[0046] In a 43rd aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the system can be configured to limit vehicle operation or send an instruction to initiate a specific vehicle action when it detects that the operator is not within the cab area of the vehicle or the control zone of the vehicle.

[0047] In a 44th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the measurement zone covers at least a part of the filter element.

[0048] In a 45th aspect, a method of monitoring the operation of the filtration system is included, the method including receiving signals from a plurality of wireless communication tags by a plurality of zone antennas associated with a plurality of zones, and carrying the signals from the zone antennas to a wireless communication reader.

[0049] In a 46th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the method may further include evaluating the signal strength of the signal.

[0050] In a 47th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the method may further include evaluating a pattern of signals indicating an event of the operation of the filtration system.

[0051] In a 48th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the filtration system operation event includes at least one of a filter element removal event, a filter element installation event, a filter element reinstallation event, and a filter cleaning event.

[0052] In a 49th aspect, in addition to or as an alternative to one or more of the preceding or following aspects, the detection of a wireless communication tag that exits a zone and then re-enters the zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event.

[0053] This summary is a summary of some of the teachings of this application and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustive treatment of the subject matter. Further details are found in the detailed description and the appended claims. Other aspects will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the following detailed description and viewing the accompanying drawings (each of which should not be taken in a limiting sense), which form a part thereof. The scope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

[0054] Aspects may be more fully understood in connection with the following accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0055]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0056] Embodiments are subject to various modifications and alternative forms, and each of its discussions will be shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail. However, it should be understood that the scope of this specification is not limited to the specific embodiments described. On the contrary, the present purpose covers modifications, equivalents, and alternative embodiments that fall within the spirit and scope of this specification.

[0057] As noted above, many filtration systems may require periodic monitoring and maintenance (such as replacement and / or service of filter elements) to ensure proper operation.

[0058] In some embodiments herein, a wireless communication tag may be associated with an element of a filtration system and provide important data for monitoring the operation and / or maintenance of the filtration system. For example, a wireless communication tag may be associated with a filter element and / or a sensing element of the filtration system may provide important data for monitoring the operation and / or maintenance of the filtration system.

[0059] In various embodiments herein, a plurality of wireless communication tags may be used to monitor the operation of one or more filtration systems as part of an overall monitoring / maintenance system. For example, in the context of a vehicle, there may be an air filtration system, a fuel filtration system, an oil filtration system, a cabin air filtration system, an exhaust filtration system, various sensing systems, etc. These various filtration systems may generally operate independently of each other, but all of these various filtration and / or sensing systems can be monitored and / or may require periodic maintenance including replacement and / or service of filter elements or other elements.

[0060] In some scenarios, all of these various filtration systems can be monitored separately from another monitoring system. However, in various embodiments herein, the various filtration systems can be monitored by a single monitoring system. The various filtration systems can be in various physical zones in some cases. In some scenarios, various wireless communication reader units can be placed in various zones. However, the wireless communication reader units can be relatively expensive. Thus, in various embodiments herein, a central wireless communication reader that communicates with a plurality of zone antennas via wire can be used. The zone antennas can be used to wirelessly interface with wireless communication tags. The zone antennas can be disposed within a particular physical zone and can be in close proximity enough to communicate with one or more wireless communication tags within each physical zone. In some cases, the wireless communication tags can be associated with not only filtration systems but also other devices (such as sensor systems).

[0061] The zone antennas can form parts of separate communication channels, and the reader further includes a multiplexer to switch between the separate communication channels. The separate communication channels can be associated with various filtration enclosures. The separate communication channels can be associated with various filtration zones.

[0062] Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The filtration monitoring system 100 can include a wireless communication reader 102. The filtration monitoring system 100 can also include a multiplexer 104 (or a similar hardware component) that provides selective wired communication between the wireless communication reader 102, a first wire 108 (conductor), and a first zone antenna 124. In some cases, the multiplexer 104 can be controlled by a system control module 106 that can also communicate with the wireless communication reader. The first zone antenna 124 can be within a first zone 116 and can wirelessly communicate with at least a first wireless communication tag 132 when the first wireless communication tag 132 is within the first zone 116.

[0063] Each wireless communication tag may include a unique identifier or serial number (e.g., a unique tag ID). The wireless communication tag may transmit a signal including its unique tag ID. In various embodiments, the system is configured to store data including the unique tag ID, the zone where the unique tag ID was present, and in some cases a timestamp regarding the presence of the unique tag ID, in a memory (which may be part of a wireless communication reader, a system control module, or another component). The combination of the tag ID and a specific zone may be referred to as zone-related data. In some embodiments, the system may be configured to store some or all of the records of the zone-related data. The storage of data may be done at the level of various system components. As an example, in some embodiments, such data may be stored at the level of the wireless communication tag within its electronic memory (volatile or non-volatile) or within a memory to which the wireless communication tag is directly connected. In some embodiments, such data may also be stored within another component of the system. As an example, such data may be stored at the level of the wireless communication reader 102 or the system control module 106, another system component, or a memory module that communicates electronically with any of these components. In some embodiments, the data is stored redundantly in multiple locations. In some embodiments, the data is passed via a data network to and / or away from another system such as a vehicle ECU system.

[0064] The communication between the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna may follow various patterns. In some embodiments, the wireless communication reader may initiate an interrogation signal transmitted from the zone antenna, and wireless communication tags within a certain range may respond to this signal. In some embodiments, the interrogation signal includes information specific to a particular wireless communication tag (e.g., defined by its unique ID). In some other embodiments, the interrogation signal may be a non-specific interrogation signal that elicits a response from any wireless communication tag that receives it. However, in some embodiments, the wireless communication tag may initiate communication or, alternatively, notify its presence by transmitting a signal if it does not receive an interrogation signal.

[0065] The intensity of the query signal transmitted from the zone antenna can vary. In some embodiments, the intensity of the transmitted query signal can be about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 7.5, 10, 20, 30, 50, 75, 100, 200, 300, or 500 watts, or any wattage within the range between any of the foregoing watts.

[0066] In some embodiments, a data security protocol may also be executed. As an example, in some embodiments, a wireless communication tag may be authenticated with respect to a wireless communication reader and / or the wireless communication reader may be authenticated with respect to the wireless communication tag. In some embodiments, such authentication is required before substantial data, such as zone-related data or sensor data, is exchanged between the two.

[0067] The multiplexer 104 (or a similar hardware component) may also provide selective wired communication between the wireless communication reader 102, a second wire 110 (conductor), and a second zone antenna 126. The second zone antenna 126 may be within the second zone 118 and may wirelessly communicate with at least a second wireless communication tag 134 when the second wireless communication tag 134 is within the second zone 118.

[0068] The multiplexer 104 (or a similar hardware component) may also provide selective wired communication between the wireless communication reader 102, a third wire 112 (conductor), and a third zone antenna 128. The third zone antenna 128 may be within the third zone 120 and may wirelessly communicate with at least a third wireless communication tag 136 when the third wireless communication tag 136 is within the third zone 120.

[0069] The multiplexer 104 (or a similar hardware component) may also provide selective wired communication between the wireless communication reader 102, the fourth wire 114 (conductor), and the fourth zone antenna 130. The fourth zone antenna 130 may be within the fourth zone 122, and the fourth zone antenna 130 may wirelessly communicate with at least the fourth wireless communication tag 138 when the fourth wireless communication tag 138 is within the fourth zone 122.

[0070] Thus, in some embodiments, the wireless communication reader may communicate wired with a plurality of zone antennas, and the wireless communication reader may be configured to wirelessly transmit and receive data to and from the wireless communication tags via the zone antennas.

[0071] In various embodiments, the wireless communication reader may calculate the signal strength between the antenna and the wireless communication tag. For example, the wireless communication reader may calculate an RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value. RSSI is often measured in decibels per milliwatt (dBm). In some embodiments, typical RSSI values may be about -10, -15, -20, -25, -30, -35, -40, -45, -50, -55, -60, -65, -70, -75, -80, -85, -90, -95 or -100 dBm. In some embodiments, one or more of the foregoing RSSI values may be used as a threshold for presence within a particular zone. For example, if the RSSI value falls below a selected threshold, the wireless communication may be considered to be outside the zone. The signal strength may follow a known pattern of attenuation based on the distance between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag. Thus, in some embodiments, the signal strength reflects the distance between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag. Another component communicating with the wireless communication reader, such as the wireless communication reader or the system control module, may calculate the distance between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag.

[0072] In some embodiments, wires 108, 110, 112, 114 may be the same. However, in some embodiments, the wires may have different characteristics from each other. For example, in some embodiments, the wires may have the same resistance or impedance.

[0073] However, in other embodiments, the wires may have different resistances or impedances (based on different overall lengths, wire gauges, wire types, etc.), and the difference in resistance or impedance (or another electrical characteristic) between one wire and the next may be used by the wireless communication reader 102 or another system component to distinguish one wire from the other. In some embodiments, the electrical characteristics of the wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna vary significantly. In some embodiments, the electrical characteristics of the wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna vary significantly based on the electrical characteristics of the conductor interconnecting the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna.

[0074] Exemplary wires may include, but are not limited to, wires that include copper, aluminum, or other metals as conductors. Exemplary wires may include those of various gauges.

[0075] In some embodiments, zone antennas 124, 126, 128, 130 may be the same. However, in some embodiments, the zone antennas may be different from each other. In some embodiments, at least one of the zone antennas has a different effective communication range. In some embodiments, at least one of the zone antennas has a different directivity from one or more of the other antennas. In some embodiments, the zone antennas can be unidirectional, omnidirectional, or isotropic. In some embodiments, one or more of the zone antennas can be circularly polarized antennas (such as right-hand circular polarization (RHCP) or left-hand circular polarization (LHCP)). In some embodiments, one or more of the zone antennas can be linearly polarized antennas. In some embodiments, the zone antennas can be, for example, 1 / 4 wavelength, 1 / 2 wavelength, monopole, dipole, fractal, array, loop, conical, aperture, traveling wave antennas, etc. In some embodiments, the antennas can be of types such as chip, stamped metal, PCB trace, helix, puck, ceramic, patch, flat bar, dome, flat patch, whip, or flat inverted F antennas.

[0076] Exemplary zone antennas are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,319,694 and 8,570,156, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference with respect to the antennas including UHF antennas.

[0077] In some embodiments, the wireless communication type / frequency / protocol can be the same among all the wireless communication tags and zone antennas. However, in other embodiments, the wireless communication type / frequency / protocol can be different among at least some different wireless communication tags and zone antennas. Exemplary wireless frequencies are protocols and are described in detail below.

[0078] The wireless communication tags in this specification may include various components such as, but not limited to, an antenna (which can function not only to transmit and receive signals but also to wirelessly receive power), a memory storage (RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or various other types of non-volatile memory), a control circuit, a power supply circuit (which may include a battery and / or a capacitor in some cases), a telemetry or communication circuit, a sensor device (such as any of those described in this specification), etc. Exemplary wireless communication tags are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 8,646,695 and 8,717,244, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference with respect to wireless communication tags such as RFID tags.

[0079] The maximum distance of communication between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag can vary based on factors such as antenna design, the frequency of wireless communication, the wireless communication protocol, etc. However, in various embodiments described in this specification, the maximum distance can be about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20 or 50 meters, or an amount falling within the range between any of the foregoing meters.

[0080] The system control module 106 may include various circuitry for telemetry, data storage and / or processing (including RAM / ROM, EEPROM, and / or data registers), power storage and / or modulation, etc. In some embodiments, the system control module 106 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. In some embodiments, the system control module 106 may include or be a PIC (peripheral interface controller) microcontroller. However, in some embodiments, the elements described above with respect to the system control module 106 may be incorporated into the wireless communication reader 102. Although not shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the system control module 106 and / or the wireless communication reader 102 may interface with a CANBUS network (controller area network) on the vehicle to provide and / or receive information such as vehicle engine information, mileage information, engine run time, etc.

[0081] In various embodiments, a system controller (or another system component) can be configured to receive an electrical signal from a wireless communication reader and can be configured to identify a pattern within the electrical signal received from the wireless communication reader. As an example, the system controller can be configured to identify a pattern that indicates a filtration system operation event. Exemplary filtration system operation events include, but are not limited to, a filter element removal event, a filter element installation event, a filter element reinstallation event, and a filter cleaning event. In some embodiments, the system controller can be configured to identify a pattern within the electrical signal received from the wireless communication reader, and the detection of a wireless communication tag exiting and then re-entering a zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event. In some embodiments, exiting the zone can be determined by observing signal strength following a downward pattern (such as when the wireless communication tag is moved in the direction of the zone boundary) and then an end pattern (such as when the wireless communication tag is far enough outside the zone that the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag can no longer communicate).

[0082] In some embodiments, exiting the zone can be determined by observing signal strength following an end pattern (such as when the wireless communication tag is far enough outside the zone that the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag can no longer communicate) that lasts longer than a threshold amount of time. The threshold amount of time can be about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240, 360, or 720 seconds, or an amount of time falling within any of the ranges of seconds described above.

[0083] In some embodiments, data from a sensor can be combined with signal strength analysis to identify a pattern consistent with a filtration system operation event. For example, in some embodiments, a filter cleaning event can be determined by observing the tag exiting the zone (e.g., via the patterns described above), then using data from a pressure sensor, and observing a post-reinstallation pressure drop (e.g., a downward step change in the observed pressure drop) that is less than the pressure drop before the filter exited the zone.

[0084] In some embodiments, the system may be configured to increment and store a count of detected filter element removal events and / or reinstallation events. In some embodiments, the count of detected filter element removal events or reinstallation events may be configured to be stored within a memory circuit that is part of a wireless communication tag.

[0085] It will be understood that in some embodiments the switching functionality may be incorporated into the wireless communication reader 102 and thus no separate multiplexer is required.

[0086] Referring now to FIG. 2, a schematic view of a vehicle 202 including a filtration monitoring system according to various embodiments herein is shown. A first zone 116 may include an air intake filtration system 204. The air intake filtration system 204 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can wirelessly communicate with a first zone antenna 124.

[0087] A second zone 118 may include a fuel filtration system 206. The fuel filtration system 204 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can wirelessly communicate with a second zone antenna 126.

[0088] A third zone 120 may include a cabin air filtration system 208. The fuel filtration system 204 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can wirelessly communicate with a third zone antenna 128.

[0089] A fourth zone 122 may include a lubricating oil filtration system 210. The fuel filtration system 204 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can wirelessly communicate with a fourth zone antenna 130.

[0090] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a filtration monitoring system having four zones, but it will be understood that the filtration monitoring system herein may have more or fewer zones. For example, the filtration monitoring system herein may have various zones of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.

[0091] Next, referring to FIG. 3, a schematic view of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The filtration monitoring system 100 may include a first zone 116, a second zone 118, a third zone 120, a fourth zone 122, and related components as described above with respect to FIG. 1.

[0092] In addition, the filtration monitoring system 100 shown in FIG. 3 may also include a fifth zone 316 and a sixth zone 318. Referring now to FIG. 4, a schematic view of a vehicle 202 including a filtration monitoring system according to various embodiments herein is shown.

[0093] Zones 1, 2, 3, 4 may be as described above with respect to FIG. 2.

[0094] The fifth zone 316 may include a proximity sensor system 404 and a fifth zone antenna 424. The proximity sensor system 404 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can communicate with the fifth zone antenna 424.

[0095] The sixth zone 318 may include a pneumatic pressure sensor system 406. The pneumatic pressure sensor system 406 may include a wireless communication tag (not shown) that can communicate with the sixth zone antenna 426.

[0096] When the wireless communication tag is mounted on a component that can be removed from the zone (such as a filter element that is removed from the filter housing for cleaning or replacement and can be removed from the zone), the wireless communication tag may pass outside the zone and outside the effective communication range of each zone antenna. Also, in some cases, as the wireless communication tag moves in the direction of the zone boundary and away from the zone antenna, the signal strength may become weaker in a manner that can be quantified by a wireless communication reader.

[0097] Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, the first wireless communication tag 132 has moved outside of the first zone 116 and outside of communication with the first zone antenna 124.

[0098] It will be appreciated that in some scenarios the wireless communication tag can be moved into a location that overlaps two or more zones (and thus within the communication range of two or more zone antennas).

[0099] Referring now to FIG. 6, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, the first wireless communication tag 132 has moved into an area that overlaps the first zone 116 and the second zone 118 and thus into a location where it can communicate with both the first zone antenna 124 and the second zone antenna 126. By observing the presence or absence of a particular wireless communication tag simultaneously with two separate zone antennas, the system can infer the possible location of the wireless communication tag. Thus, in some embodiments, the system is configured to determine the current location of the wireless communication tag based on communication between the wireless communication tag and at least two spatially separated zone antennas.

[0100] By observing the presence or absence of a particular wireless communication tag simultaneously with three separate zone antennas, the system can directly calculate the location of the wireless communication tag via triangulation techniques. Thus, in some embodiments, the system is configured to determine the current location of the wireless communication tag based on communication between the wireless communication tag and at least three spatially separated zone antennas.

[0101] It will be understood that in some embodiments, the zones herein may terminate at the boundaries with other zones. However, in some embodiments, the zones herein may overlap with each other. Thus, for example, in some embodiments, at least one of the distinct communication channels is associated with a first filtering zone but spatially overlaps with a second filtering zone. In some embodiments, at least one of the distinct communication channels is associated with a first filtering zone but spatially overlaps with second and third filtering zones.

[0102] In some embodiments, a zone may be configured such that there is a single zone antenna for the zone. However, in other embodiments, a zone may be configured such that there are multiple zone antennas for a particular zone. Additionally, in some embodiments, a zone may be configured such that typically only one wireless communication tag is present within the zone during normal operation. However, in some embodiments, a zone may be configured such that typically two or more wireless communication tags are present within the zone during normal operation (e.g., by a filtering system including multiple filter elements).

[0103] Referring now to FIG. 7, a schematic diagram of a filtering monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 are substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. However, in this embodiment, only five zones are present, and the first zone 116 includes two first zone antennas 124, 724 and two first zone wireless communication tags 132, 732.

[0104] Referring now to FIG. 8, a schematic diagram of a filtering monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 may be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. However, in this embodiment, only five zones are present, and the first zone 116 includes a single first zone antenna 124 but includes two first zone wireless communication tags 132, 732.

[0105] In some cases, the presence or absence of a human operator can affect the signal strength observed in the field. Referring now to FIG. 9, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, the human operator 902 is present within the fifth zone 316 and between the fifth zone antenna 904 and the fifth wireless communication tag 906, causing signal attenuation. In this way, the communication between the wireless communication tag and the associated zone antenna can be used to determine the position of the human operator for safety purposes and / or to detect maintenance being performed on the filtration system.

[0106] In some embodiments, the wireless communication tag can be directly associated with an operator (e.g., in the form of a wireless communication-enabled ID badge or a personal wireless communication device). In some embodiments, the wireless communication tag can be associated with clothing or other equipment associated with an individual operator (e.g., "personal equipment" such as a safety vest, clothing, jacket, shoes / boots, gloves, safety helmet, etc.). Thus, in various embodiments herein, the monitoring system can detect a particular individual or equipment associated with a particular individual.

[0107] This system can determine the presence or absence of an individual or personal equipment within a specific zone. Accordingly, this system can detect whether an operator is in the cab of a vehicle or other control zone. This system can also detect whether an operator is present within a zone that can represent an operational risk (e.g., risk of injury to the operator), and / or limit the potential operating state of the vehicle, and / or cause the vehicle to take several actions based on the operator's position (e.g., disable the power take-off if the operator is within the PTO zone; apply the parking brake if the operator is outside the cab, seat, or control zone of the vehicle; limit the engine RPM if the operator is outside the cab, seat, or control zone of the vehicle, etc.). In some embodiments, the vehicle controller (e.g., on a digital control panel) can be customized based on the specific operator detected. Accordingly, in various embodiments, this system can be configured to send commands for limiting vehicle operation and / or initiating specific vehicle actions when it detects that the operator is not within the cab area of the vehicle or within the control zone of the vehicle. Such commands can be sent to the vehicle ECU system for execution or otherwise sent via the CAN bus network.

[0108] In some embodiments, the presence or absence of an operator within a zone (or operator zone related entity) can be tracked by this system and stored with a timestamp regarding the presence or absence of the operator. In some embodiments, other types of data (such as filtration system data, pressure data, etc.) that can be generated, tracked, or stored by the system herein can be classified or otherwise grouped based on the specific operator that was present during the period in which such data was collected. In this way, this system can provide an indication of how system and / or vehicle performance can change based on the specific operator who operated the device or vehicle.

[0109] Next, referring to FIG. 10, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, a human operator 902 is within the fifth zone 316. A wireless communication tag 1002 can be directly associated with the human operator 902. Thus, the presence or absence of the human operator 902 within the fifth zone 316 can be detected by receiving a signal from the wireless communication tag 1002 by the fifth zone antenna 904. Detection of the presence or absence of the human operator 902 within this zone can, in some cases, be stored by the system as a type of zone-related data along with a timestamp regarding the presence or absence of the human operator 902. In some embodiments, the absence of the human operator 902 after a previous detection can be stored by the system as a type of zone-related data. As an example, the zone-related data according to the embodiments herein can include both positive zone-related data (wireless communication tags detected by the antenna) and negative zone-related data (wireless communication tags not detected by the antenna).

[0110] In some cases, the presence of a particular substance can interfere with the passage of electromagnetic waves and / or change its characteristics such as frequency, amplitude, etc. For example, water can significantly attenuate the passage of electromagnetic waves at various frequencies passing through the water. Thus, according to the embodiments herein, the wireless signal strength between a wireless communication tag and an associated antenna can be monitored to detect a change in the signal attenuation or the amount of signal-blocking substance therebetween.

[0111] Now referring to FIG. 11, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, a measurement zone 1104 is disposed within a sixth zone 318 between a sixth antenna 1106 and a sixth wireless communication tag 1102.

[0112] In some embodiments, the measurement zone may cover at least a portion of the fuel tank, and thus the presence and / or level of fuel in the tank can be detected. In some embodiments, the measurement zone may cover at least a portion of the cab area of the vehicle, and thus the presence of a human operator in the cab area of the vehicle can be detected. In some embodiments, the measurement zone may cover at least a portion of a filter element (such as a portion of a filter element that collects dust or other debris sufficient to modify, attenuate, or block signals between the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna).

[0113] In some cases, the monitoring system herein may also include sensors or other signal generating components (wired or wirelessly communicating with a wireless communication reader, multiplexer, and / or system control module) placed within the zone of the system.

[0114] As a specific example, referring next to FIG. 12, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 may be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, a fuel tank 1204 (or other liquid tank) is disposed within a sixth zone 318. A sixth wireless communication tag 1102 may be disposed within or around the fuel tank 1204. The presence of fluid within the fuel tank 1204 can modify (attenuate, shift, detune, etc.) the communication between the sixth antenna 1106 and the sixth wireless communication tag 1102 in a detectable manner. Thus, in various embodiments, the system can detect the presence and / or amount of fluid within a fuel tank or other container (for storing fluid or other materials) by evaluating the signal received by the antenna from the wireless communication tag.

[0115] Referring now to FIG. 13, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 can be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, there is a sensor 1302 disposed within a first zone 116 that communicates directly wirelessly with a wireless communication reader 102 via a multiplexer 104. Although not shown in this figure, it will be understood that the first zone 116 can also include one or more zone antennas and one or more wireless communication tags. In various embodiments, the sensor 1302 can communicate wirelessly with one or more zone antennas to transmit sensor data / signals (e.g., the sensor 1302 need not be limited to a wired sensor). In some embodiments, the sensor 1302 can be part of a wireless communication tag or can transmit its data / signals via a wireless communication tag. Additionally, the first zone 116 (and other zones) can include two or more wired signal generating components. In some cases, sensors or other signal generating components that communicate wirelessly via components other than wireless communication tags can be included within the zone.

[0116] Sensors herein can include, but are not limited to, pressure sensors, differential pressure sensors, proximity sensors, vibration sensors, accelerometers, optical sensors (including, but not limited to, particle sensors), load sensors, flow sensors, etc. In some embodiments, the sensor can be a parts ID sensor (e.g., the sensor can provide a unique ID value that can be used to identify a particular part or a particular type of part). Exemplary pressure sensors and differential pressure sensors herein can include, but are not limited to, MEMS-based pressure sensors, inductive pressure sensors, and piezoelectric pressure sensors. Exemplary vibration sensors and accelerometers herein can include, but are not limited to, 1, 2, and 3-axis accelerometers. Exemplary flow sensors herein can include, but are not limited to, turbine, outer ring, vortex flow, electromagnetic, and acoustic / ultrasonic flow sensors.

[0117] In some embodiments, a sensor or other signal generating component may be within a particular zone of the system and may communicate wirelessly directly with the system control module. Referring now to FIG. 14, a schematic diagram of a filtration monitoring system 100 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The components of this system 100 may be substantially the same as those described with respect to FIGS. 1 and 3. In this example, there is a sensor 1302 disposed within a first zone 116 that communicates wirelessly directly with the system control module 106 via a multiplexer 104.

[0118] Many different types of filtration systems may be part of or may be monitored by the filtration monitoring systems herein.

[0119] Referring now to FIG. 15, a schematic diagram of a filtration system 1510 including a filter housing and filter element according to various embodiments herein is shown. The filtration system 1510 depicted includes a housing 1512 and a removable and replaceable primary filter element 1514. In the figure shown, the housing 1512 includes a housing body 1516 and a removable service cover 1518. The cover 1518 provides service access to the interior of the housing body 1516 for servicing. For the general type of filtration system 1510 depicted in FIG. 15, servicing typically involves removing at least one filter element (such as the depicted filter element 1514) from the housing 1512, either for retrofit or replacement.

[0120] The described housing 1512 includes an outer wall 1520 having an end 1521, an air inlet 1522, and an air outlet 1524. For the described embodiment, both the inlet 1522 and the outlet 1524 are within the housing body 1516. In other embodiments, at least one of the inlet 1522 or the outlet 1524 may be part of the cover 1518. In typical use, ambient or unfiltered air enters the filtration system 1510 through the inlet 1522. Within the filtration system 1510, this air is passed through the filter element 1514 to obtain a desired level of particle removal. Next, the filtered air passes outwardly from the filtration system 1510 through the outlet 1524 and is directed to the air intake of an associated engine or compressor or other system by appropriate ductwork or ducts.

[0121] FIG. 15 illustrates a filter element for particle removal, and it will be understood that embodiments herein also include filtration systems and / or filter elements for the removal of gaseous and / or liquid phase contaminants.

[0122] The described particular filtration system 1510 has an outer wall 1520 that defines a barrel shape or generally cylindrical configuration. In this particular configuration, the outlet 1524 generally extends in the direction of the longitudinal central axis defined by the filter element 1514 and surrounds it and thus may be described as an axial outlet. The service cover 1518 typically fits snugly over the open end 1526 of the housing body 1516. In the particular arrangement shown, the cover 1518 is secured in place over the end 1526 by a latch 1528.

[0123] FIG. 15 also shows a wireless communication tag 1562 disposed on the first end cap 1554 of the filter element 1514. FIG. 15 also shows a zone antenna 1552. The wireless communication tag 1562 and the zone antenna 1552 may communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0124] In various embodiments herein, the wireless communication tag can be disposed on the filter housing itself or otherwise associated with the filter housing itself (e.g., with respect to a filter element). A wireless communication tag on the filter housing is in addition to or instead of a wireless communication tag on the filter element. The wireless communication tag on the filter housing can be used to identify the type or model of the filter housing (e.g., such data can be stored on the tag and then wirelessly transmitted), and thus can be used to identify the appropriate model / type of filter element (to be fitted into or attached to which).

[0125] Referring now to FIG. 16, a schematic view of a filtration system 1660 including a filter housing and a filter element according to various embodiments herein is shown. The filtration system 1660 can include a housing 1661 having housing portions 1662, 1663 in which an axial housing seal structure 1602 will be positioned and tightened during installation. One of the housing portions 1663 will typically serve as a filter element receptacle and will include therein a receiving groove 1665 into which the seal structure 1602 is fitted during installation. The second housing portion 1663 will typically include a pressure flange 1664 oriented to apply pressure to a surface during installation. The pressure flange 1664 helps ensure that the sealing surface is pressurized to appropriately clamp a seal member 1612 against a ledge portion or sealing surface portion of the groove 1665 for sealing. Various retaining mechanisms such as bolts or over center latches can be used to apply and maintain the force.

[0126] Still referring to FIG. 16, the housing portion 1663 includes a seal area outer rim 1670 that can surround the seal structure 1602 and project therefrom in the same direction as optional handle members 1630, 1631 during installation. The filter element 1600 can be recessed within the rim 1670.

[0127] Still referring to FIG. 16, the housing portion 1663 also includes an inner peripheral rim 1671 of the seal area surrounded by the rim 1670, the inner peripheral rim 1671 of the seal area being spaced from the rim 1670 by a groove 1672 including a seal engagement surface. The rim 1671 is optional but preferred. The rim 1671 is typically arranged such that when the filter element 1600 is properly installed, a part of the seal structure or member 1612 is positioned between the rim 1671 and the rim 1670.

[0128] The wireless communication tag 1692 can be associated with the filter element 1600 (e.g., disposed on or in the filter element 1600). In particular, the wireless communication tag 1692 can be disposed on or in the side wall 1603 of the filter element 1600 or on or in another component of the filter element 1600. FIG. 16 also shows a zone antenna 1552. The wireless communication tag 1692 and the zone antenna 1552 can communicate wirelessly with each other.

[0129] It should be noted that the housing 1662 in FIG. 16 is schematic. The housing can also have additional features related to its installation, air inlets, air outlets, etc. Also, the wireless communication tag 1692 can be located at many different specific positions (e.g., inside the filter element 1600 or within or between the filter element 1600 or other components of the filtration system).

[0130] Referring now to FIG. 17, a schematic view of a filtration system 1740 including a filter head 1744 and a spin-on canister filter 1746 (or filter element) is shown. The filter head 1744 can operably accommodate both the spin-on canister filter 1746 and a bowl cartridge filter (not shown). By "operably accommodate", it means that the filter head 1744 includes a structure suitable for engaging the spin-on canister filter 1746 such that the fluid to be cleaned is directed through appropriate channels to clean the fluid as desired. Referring to FIG. 17, the spin-on canister filter 1746 includes a disposable housing 1750 and a baffle plate 1752. The housing 1750 defines a filter interior that permanently holds a non-replaceable cartridge filter (filter element). In some embodiments, the filter head 1744 includes an end face 1745.

[0131] The baffle plate 1752 includes a plurality of openings 1742 to permit fluid flow from the filter head 1744 into the internal volume of the spin-on canister filter 1746.

[0132] The filter head 1744 includes a filter head block 1758 that includes a continuous outer wall member 1760 forming an outer tube surrounding the internal volume. The filter head block 1758 can define a first port that is an inlet in a forward flow system, a second port that is an outlet port in a forward flow system, and an internal tube or central tube that is within the internal volume and surrounded by the outer tube.

[0133] In some embodiments, the outer surface 1772 can have a first mechanical connection structure 1774. The first mechanical connection structure 1774 includes many types of arrangements. Among those possible arrangements, examples include threads, bayonet connections, bead and groove connections, etc. In the particular embodiment shown, the first connection structure 1774 includes a first plurality of threads 1776. In this particular embodiment, the first plurality of threads 1776 are disposed on the outer surface 1772 of the wall member 1760. However, in other embodiments, the first plurality of threads can be disposed along the inner surface of the wall member 1760.

[0134] The spin-on canister filter 1746 may include a second mechanical connection structure 1725, depicted in this case as threads 1726. The threads 1726 engage a first plurality of threads 1776.

[0135] The wireless communication tag 1722 may be associated with (e.g., disposed on or within) the spin-on canister filter 1746. FIG. 16 also shows a zone antenna 1552. The wireless communication tag 1722 and the zone antenna 1552 may communicate wirelessly with each other. In some embodiments, the wireless communication tag 1722 may be positioned such that signals between the tag 1722 and the antenna 1552 are blocked or significantly attenuated in some environments. For example, the wireless communication tag 1722 may be positioned such that communication by the tag is possible only when the spin-on canister filter 1746 is removed or removed and the spin-on canister filter 1746 is completely installed and shielded by a metal housing (such as provided by the filter head). In this way, the presence or absence of communication can be used to detect events such as filter removal or replacement.

[0136] Another aspect of the spin-on canister filter is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0079693, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0137] Referring now to FIG. 18, a schematic block diagram of a wireless communication reader 1800 according to various embodiments herein is shown. The wireless communication reader 1800 includes a 32 kHz free running oscillator (FRO) 1602, an 8 kHz FRO 1804, an external power switch 1806, a 1.2V low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator 1808, an internal power switch 1810, a power-on reset (POR) 1612, a wake-up timer 1814, a clock shop 1816, a 1.6V LDO voltage regulator 1818, a power pad 1820, a digital multifunction I / O (MFIO) pad 1822, I2 C bus pad 1824, high drive pad 1826, digital switch matrix 1828, I 2 C bus 1830, serial peripheral interface (SPI), timer 1834, watchdog 1836, system configuration module 1838, general purpose I / O (GPIO) 1740, 8 kB SRAM 1842, 32 kB flash 1844, 4 kB EEPROM 1846, ARM M0+ processor 1848, advanced high-performance bus - advanced peripheral bus (AHB - APB) bridge 1850, I / O configuration module 1852, EEPROM control unit 1854, temperature sensor 1856, flash memory control unit 1858, phasor measurement unit (PMU) 1760, and NFC / RFID unit 1862, etc. The exemplary wireless communication reader 1800 includes the NHS3100 integrated circuit (available from NXP Semiconductors). However, many other units may also be used. Further, the wireless communication reader herein may include fewer or additional components than those shown in FIG. 18.

[0138] Referring now to FIG. 19, a schematic diagram of a communication network 1900 of a filtration monitoring system according to various embodiments herein is shown. The system control module 106 may communicate with a gateway or repeater unit 1910. In some embodiments, the gateway or repeater unit 1910 may be connected to an external data network 1922 such as the Internet or various private networks. In some embodiments, the data network 1922 may be a packet switched network. In some embodiments, the gateway or repeater 1910 may also include a data network router function.

[0139] In some embodiments, wireless signals from one or more components, such as system control module 106 or gateway or repeater unit 1910, can be exchanged with a wireless communication tower 1920 (or antenna array), which may be a cellular tower or other wireless communication tower. The wireless communication tower 1920 can be connected (in packet - switched or other ways) to a data network 1922, such as the Internet or another type of public or private data network.

[0140] The data network can provide one - way or two - way communication with other components. For example, a server 1924 or other processing device can receive an electronic signal containing data from one or more components (such as system control module 106, gateway or repeater unit 1910). The server 1924 can interface with a database 1926 to store data. In some embodiments, the server 1924 (or a particular device that is part of a server system) can interface with a user device 1928 that can enable a user to query data stored within the database 1926.

[0141] Method Many different methods (including, but not limited to, manufacturing methods, usage methods, etc.) are contemplated herein. Aspects of system / device operation described elsewhere in this specification can be performed as the operation of one or more methods in accordance with various embodiments herein.

[0142] In one embodiment, a method of monitoring the operation of a filtration system is included. The method includes receiving signals from a plurality of wireless communication tags by a plurality of zone antennas associated with a plurality of zones, and carrying the signals from the zone antennas to a wireless communication reader.

[0143] In one embodiment, the method may further include evaluating the signal strength of the signal. In one embodiment, the method may further include evaluating a signal of a pattern that indicates a filtration system operation event. In one embodiment, the filtration system operation event may include at least one of a filter element removal, a filter element installation, a filter element reinstallation, and a filter cleaning event.

[0144] In one embodiment of the method, the detection of a wireless communication tag that exits and then re-enters a zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event.

[0145] Wireless communication According to various embodiments herein, the zone antenna may wirelessly communicate with a wireless communication tag.

[0146] Various frequencies for transmission between the wireless communication tag and the antenna may be used herein. In some embodiments, the transmission may be at ultra-high frequency (UHF). The UHF range includes frequencies from 300 to 1000 MHz. However, in some embodiments herein, 433 MHz and / or 860 - 960 MHz are used. Other frequencies herein may include 70 - 74 MHz, 170 - 220 MHz, 580 - 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 2402 - 2480 MHz, 2400 - 2483.5 MHz, 2.4 GHz, 3.6 GHz, 4.9 GHz, 5 GHz, 5.9 GHz. Many different frequencies are contemplated.

[0147] Various communication protocols can be used. In some embodiments, an RFID protocol can be used. In some embodiments, ISO18000-6A, ISO18000-6B, ISO18000-6C, or ISO18000-630 can be used. In some embodiments, a custom protocol (e.g., not conforming to a standard specification) can be used. In some embodiments, a BLUETOOTH or BLUETOOTH Low-Energy protocol can be used. In some embodiments, a WIFI protocol can be used. Other protocols can include ZigBee, Z-Wave, 6LoWPAN, Thread, WiFi-ah, GSM, TDMA, 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, LTE-M1, NB-IoT, NFC, SigFox, LoRaWAN, Ingenu, Weightless-N, P, W, ANT, DigiMesh, MiWi, EnOcean, Dash7, WirelessHART, and the like.

[0148] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms of the articles and indefinite articles ( "a", "an", and "the") include plural referents unless the context specifically indicates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally employed in the sense of "and / or" unless the content specifically provides otherwise.

[0149] It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase "configured to" describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The phrase "configured to" can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases such as arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed, manufactured and arranged, and the like.

[0150] All publications and patent applications within this specification are indicative of the level of those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference.

[0151] As used herein, the description of a numerical range by endpoints is intended to include all numbers within that range (e.g., 2 to 8 includes 2.1, 2.8, 5.3, 7, etc.).

[0152] The headings used herein are provided for consistency with the suggestions under 37 CFR 1.77 or otherwise to provide organizational cues. These headings should not be regarded as limiting or characterizing the invention claimed in any claim arising from this disclosure. By way of example, a heading refers to a "Field", but such a claim should not be limited by the language selected under this heading to describe the so-called art. Further, the description of the art in the "Background Art" does not admit that such art is prior art to any invention in this disclosure. The "Disclosure of the Invention" should also not be regarded as characterizing the invention claimed in the issued claims.

[0153] The embodiments described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form set forth in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are selected and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices. Accordingly, aspects are expressed with reference to various specific and preferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understood that many variations and modification embodiments can be made while remaining within the spirit and scope herein.

Claims

1. A plurality of filtration housings; a plurality of filter elements associated with the filtration housing; a plurality of wireless communication tags associated with the filter elements; A multiple zone antenna; and A filtration monitoring system including a wireless communication reader in wired communication with the plurality of zone antennas, the wireless communication reader configured to wirelessly transmit and receive data to and from the wireless communication tag via the zone antennas.

2. 38. A filtering and monitoring system according to claim 1 and any one of claims 3 to 37, wherein the zone antennas form part of separate communication channels, and the wireless communication reader further includes a multiplexer for switching between the separate communication channels.

3. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1-2 and 4-37, wherein the separate communication channels are associated with different filtration enclosures.

4. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and claims 5 to 37, wherein the separate communication channels are associated with different filtration zones.

5. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-4 and 6-37, wherein at least one of the separate communication channels is associated with a first filtration zone but spatially overlaps with a second filtration zone.

6. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-5 and 7-37, wherein the zone antenna comprises a UHF antenna.

7. 38. A filtering and monitoring system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 and claims 8 to 37, wherein at least one of the zone antennas differs in its effective communication range.

8. 38. A filtration monitoring system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 and claims 9 to 37, wherein at least one of the zone antennas has a different directivity than one or more of the other zone antennas.

9. 38. The filtration monitoring system of claim 1, wherein the wireless communication tag includes a power receiving antenna.

10. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and claims 11 to 37, wherein the filtering housing defines an interior volume within which a filter element fits.

11. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-10 and 12-37, wherein the filtering housing defines a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet.

12. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-11 and 13-37, wherein the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet are located adjacent a first end of the housing.

13. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-12 and 14-37, wherein at least some of the filter elements include a cylindrical exterior shape and define a central channel.

14. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-13 and 15-37, wherein at least some of the filter elements include an elliptical profile and do not define a central channel.

15. 38. The filtering and monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and 16 to 37, wherein the wireless communication reader calculates a signal strength between the antenna and the wireless communication tag.

16. 38. The filtering and monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 15 and 17 to 37, wherein the signal strength reflects the distance between the zone antenna and the wireless communication tag.

17. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 16 and claims 18 to 37, further comprising a system controller configured to receive electrical signals from the wireless communication reader and configured to identify a pattern in the electrical signals received from the wireless communication reader.

18. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any of claims 1-17 and 19-37, wherein the system controller is configured to identify patterns indicative of a filtration system operational event.

19. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-18 and 20-37, wherein the filtration system operational events include at least one of a filter element removal, a filter element installation, a filter element reinstallation, and a filter cleaning event.

20. A filtration monitoring system as described in any one of claims 1 to 19 and claims 21 to 37, wherein the system controller is configured to identify patterns in the electrical signal received from the wireless communication reader, and detection of a wireless communication tag leaving a zone and then re-entering the zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event.

21. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and claims 22 to 37 configured to increment and store a count of detected filter element removal and / or replacement events.

22. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 21 and 23 to 37, wherein the count of detected filter element removal or replacement events is configured to be stored in a memory circuit that is part of the wireless communication tag.

23. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-22 and claims 24-37, wherein at least one filtering housing and its associated filtering element are integrated as a spin-on canister filter.

24. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 23 and claims 25 to 37, further comprising a sensor associated with a zone and in wired communication with at least one of the wireless communication tags, at least one of the zone antennas, or the wireless communication reader.

25. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 24 and claims 26 to 37, wherein the sensor comprises a pressure sensor.

26. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-25 and 27-37, wherein the sensor comprises a differential pressure sensor.

27. 38. A filtration monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 26 and claims 28 to 37, wherein the sensor comprises a proximity sensor.

28. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 27 and claims 29 to 37, wherein the wireless communication tag includes a memory storage circuit.

29. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 28 and claims 30 to 37, wherein the wireless communication tag stores information regarding the filter element model and a serial number within the memory storage circuit.

30. 38. A filtration monitoring system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 29 and claims 31 to 37, wherein at least one of the filtration enclosures comprises an air intake filtration enclosure.

31. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-30 and claims 32-37, wherein at least one of the filtration enclosures includes a fuel filtration enclosure.

32. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1-31 and 33-37, wherein at least one of the filtration enclosures includes a cabin air filtration enclosure.

33. 38. The filtering and monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 32 and claims 34 to 37, wherein electrical characteristics of wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antennas change significantly.

34. 38. The filtering monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 33 and claims 35 to 37, wherein electrical characteristics of the wired communication between the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna vary significantly based on electrical characteristics of conductors interconnecting the wireless communication reader and the zone antenna.

35. 38. A filtration monitoring system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 34 and claims 36 to 37, configured to determine a current location of the wireless communication tag based on communication between the wireless communication tag and at least two spatially separated zone antennas.

36. 38. The filtration monitoring system of any one of claims 1 to 35 and 37, wherein at least one wireless communication tag carries a unique tag ID.

37. 37. A filtration monitoring system according to any preceding claim, configured to store data including a unique tag ID, a zone in which the unique tag ID was located, and a timestamp relating to the zone.

38. a plurality of filtering housings configured to house the filtering elements; a plurality of zone antennas configured to wirelessly communicate with a wireless communication tag associated with the filter element; and A filtering system including a wireless communication reader in wired communication with the multiple zone antennas configured to control communications with the wireless communication tag.

39. Multiple zone antennas; a wireless communication reader in wired communication with the plurality of zone antennas; a plurality of wireless communication tags that wirelessly communicate with the zone antenna; a filtering housing; At least one of the wireless communication tags is associated with a filtering housing; At least one of the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna is positioned with a measurement zone disposed therebetween; The measurement zone affects signal strength of communications between the wireless communication tag and the zone antenna.

40. 45. A vehicle sensor system according to claim 39 and any one of claims 41 to 44, wherein the measurement zone covers at least a portion of a fuel tank.

41. 45. A vehicle sensor system as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 40 and claims 42 to 44, wherein a wireless communication tag is located within the fuel tank.

42. 45. A vehicle sensor system according to any one of claims 39 to 41 and claims 43 to 44, wherein the measurement zone covers at least a part of a cab area of ​​a vehicle or of a control zone of a vehicle.

43. 45. A vehicle sensor system as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 42 and claim 44, configured to transmit commands to restrict vehicle operation or initiate specific vehicle actions upon detecting that an operator is not within the cab area of ​​the vehicle or the control zone of the vehicle.

44. 44. The vehicle sensor system of any one of claims 39 to 43, wherein the measurement zone covers at least a portion of a filter element.

45. receiving signals from a plurality of wireless communication tags by a plurality of zone antennas associated with a plurality of zones; and A method of monitoring filtering system operation comprising conveying said signal from said zone antenna to a wireless communication reader.

46. 50. The method of claim 45 and any one of claims 47 to 49, further comprising assessing the signal strength of the signal.

47. 50. The method of any one of claims 45-46 and claims 48-49, further comprising evaluating the signal for a pattern indicative of a filtration system operational event.

48. 50. The method of any one of claims 45-47 and 49, wherein the filtration system operational event includes at least one of a filter element removal event, a filter element installation event, a filter element reinstallation event, and a filter cleaning event.

49. 49. A method according to any one of claims 45 to 48, wherein detection of a wireless communication tag leaving a zone and then re-entering said zone is counted as a filter element removal event and / or a filter reinstallation event.

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