Filtering device and method of use for liquids

Abstract

We offer an improved filter cartridge. [Solution] A filter cartridge for use in a bowl cartridge assembly, (a) A filter medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, (b) A first end cap bonded to and in close contact with the first end of the media structure, wherein the first end cap includes an outer radial wall and an axial wall, and the axial wall covers the first end of the media structure; (c) At least one spring biasing return mechanism extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end cap, A filter cartridge is provided that includes [the specified component].

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application was filed as a PCT international application on October 29, 2020, claiming the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 927,971, filed on October 30, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to, for example, a liquid filter device that can be used to filter hydraulic fluids and lubricating fluids. A filter head is described in which a filter cartridge device that is easy to service is positioned during use. Assembly methods and usage methods are also provided.

Background Art

[0003] Circulating liquid systems, such as hydraulic fluids and lubricating fluids, typically require a filter device. The filter device is typically positioned such that the fluid is filtered by passing through a filter medium positioned within the filter device. Typically, the filter device is configured such that the components containing the medium are replaceable parts, i.e., the medium can be periodically removed and replaced.

[0004] There are two general types of liquid filter devices. A first type, herein referred to as the "spin - on" type, typically includes a filter head that is attached to a piece of equipment and a spin - on filter member or cartridge. Since the assembly containing the filter medium is typically fixed to the filter head by threading, the filter member or cartridge is often referred to as "spin - on". In a spin - on device, the filter medium is typically fixedly and non - removably positioned within a shell or housing as a housing / media combination, and the entire housing / media combination is removed and replaced as the filter member or cartridge during servicing.

[0005] A second common type of liquid filter device is referred to herein as a bowl / cartridge device. In a bowl / cartridge device, the filter head is mounted on the device. However, the filter medium is contained within a filter cartridge in a form that is removably positioned within a housing or shell. The housing / cartridge combination is also mounted on the filter head for use. However, during maintenance, the housing is separated from the filter head, the medium contained within the housing or shell is replaced, and then the same shell or housing with the replaced internal medium is reattached to the filter head.

[0006] A properly functioning filter system is crucial for protecting downstream equipment such as engines or hydraulic machinery. Improvements to filter systems are always desirable. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the filter cartridge comprises (a) a processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side; (b) a first end structure adjacent to the first end of the medium structure, the first end structure including an outer radial wall and an axial wall, (i) the axial wall covering the first end of the medium structure, and (ii) the outer radial wall having a plurality of connecting portions alternating with non-connecting portions; and (c) a filter housing having an enclosure wall defining an exterior, interior, bottom, and opposite mouth, (i) the filter housing being fixed to the outer radial wall at the mouth, and (ii) the medium structure being positioned inside the enclosure wall and spaced apart from the enclosure wall.

[0008] In various examples, the outer radial wall can overlaps with a portion of the media structure; or the non-connected portion is smooth; or the processing media structure includes a ribbed medium arranged in a tubular shape with an open internal volume; or the bottom of the filter housing is closed; or each of the non-connected portions is equally spaced from one another; or it further comprises a sealing member fixed to the outside of the filter housing; or the connection portion of the outer radial wall is on the outside of the filter housing; or the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the outer external portion of the outer radial wall; or the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the internal portion of the outer radial wall; or each connection portion has multiple helical profiles extending at a twist angle; or each helical profile within each connection portion has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within that connection portion.

[0009] In various examples, within each connection, each helical profile is axially spaced apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacings. Or, each connection is identical to the others. Or, each connection has at least four helical profiles. Or, there are at least three connections. Or, the connection further includes a radially projecting stop member extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one helical profile of the connection. Or, the connection further includes at least one spring biasing stop extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure. Or, there are multiple spring biasing stops extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure. Or, each spring biasing stop includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure.

[0010] In various examples, the first end structure is part of a first end cap, the first end cap is fixed to a first end of the medium structure, or further includes a second end cap fixed to a second end of the medium structure.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, (a) the outer radial wall of a first end structure includes a sealing member seat having a pair of radially outward-extending flanges having a wall portion between them; (b) the housing is attached to the outer radial wall by folding over at least the first flange of the flanges to cover the wall portion; and (c) the sealing member is oriented radially outward relative to the housing at the sealing member seat.

[0012] In various examples, the first end structure includes a hole communicating with an open internal volume; or further comprises a sealing member directed toward the hole in the first end structure; or the sealing member is a grommet; or a portion of the outer radial wall is axially spaced away from the axial wall to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps defining a fluid flow path; or the outer radial wall includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connections alternating with the gaps; or the outer radial wall has a continuous ring at the distal end from the axial wall, the continuous ring holding the sealing member thereon; or each of the disconnected parts is spaced apart from one another; or the filter housing is irremovably fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening.

[0013] In another embodiment, the filter cartridge comprises (a) a processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side; (b) a first end structure adjacent to the first end of the medium structure, (c) the first end structure including an outer radial wall and an axial wall, (i) the axial wall covering the first end of the medium structure, (ii) the outer radial wall having a plurality of circumferentially spaced connections, each connection having a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and (iii) each helical profile within each connection having a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within the respective connection; and (d) a filter housing having an enclosure wall defining an exterior, interior, bottom, and opposite mouth, (i) the filter housing being fixed to the outer radial wall at the mouth, and (ii) the medium structure being positioned inside the enclosure wall and spaced apart from the enclosure wall.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, within each connection, each helical profile is axially spaced apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacing.

[0015] In another embodiment, the filter cartridge comprises (a) a processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side; (b) a first end structure adjacent to the first end of the medium structure, (c) the first end structure including an outer radial wall and an axial wall, (i) the axial wall covering the first end of the medium structure, (ii) the outer radial wall having a plurality of circumferentially spaced connections, each connection having a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, (iii) within each connection, each helical profile is axially spaced from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacing; and (d) a filter housing having an enclosure wall defining an exterior, interior, bottom, and opposite mouth, (i) the filter housing being fixed to the outer radial wall at the mouth, and (ii) the medium structure being positioned inside the enclosure wall and spaced away from the enclosure wall.

[0016] In various examples, the connection is separated on the outer radial wall by a plurality of disconnections, which are spaced apart from each other. Or the outer radial wall overlaps a portion of the medium structure. Or the processing medium structure includes a ribbed medium arranged in a tubular shape with an open internal volume. Or the bottom of the filter housing is closed. Or each of the disconnections is equally spaced from each other. Or it further comprises a sealing member fixed to the outside of the filter housing. Or the connection of the outer radial wall is on the outside of the filter housing. Or the connection of the outer radial wall is along the outer external portion of the outer radial wall. Or the connection of the outer radial wall is along the internal portion of the outer radial wall. Or each connection is identical to the others. Or each connection has at least four helical profiles. Or there are at least three connection parts. Or it further comprises a radially projecting stop member extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one helical profile of the connection.

[0017] In various examples, the system further includes at least one spring biasing deactivator extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure; or there are multiple spring biasing deactivators extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure; or each spring biasing deactivator includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure; or the first end structure is part of a first end cap fixed to the first end of the medium structure; or the system further includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the medium structure.

[0018] In some examples, (a) the outer radial wall of a first end structure includes a sealing member seat having a pair of radially outward-extending flanges with a wall portion between them, (b) the housing is attached to the outer radial wall by folding over at least the first flange of the flanges to cover the wall portion, and (c) the sealing member is oriented radially outward with respect to the housing at the sealing member seat.

[0019] In various examples, the first end structure includes a hole communicating with an open internal volume, or further comprises a sealing member directed toward the hole in the first end structure, or the sealing member is a grommet, or a portion of the outer radial wall is axially spaced from the axial wall to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps defining a fluid flow path, or the outer radial wall includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connections alternating with the gaps, or the outer radial wall has a continuous ring at the distal end from the axial wall, the continuous ring holding the sealing member thereon, or the filter housing is irremovably fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening, or each of the helical profiles within each connection has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within the respective connection.

[0020] In another embodiment, the filtration assembly comprises (a) a filter cartridge as variously characterized above, and (b) a filter head that is removably attached to the filter cartridge and forms a seal with the sealing member of the filter cartridge.

[0021] In the example, the filter head includes (a) an end wall (36) and (b) a circumferential band extending axially from the end wall, which includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments constructed and arranged to engage with the connection portion of the filter cartridge.

[0022] In various examples, multiple circumferentially spaced connecting segments are located on the inner radial surface of the band; or multiple circumferentially spaced connecting segments are located on the outer radial surface of the band; or the end wall includes an inner surface enclosed by the band, and the inner surface of the end wall includes one or more recesses positioned to receive spring biasing restraints.

[0023] In another embodiment, a method for maintaining and inspecting a filtration assembly including a filter cartridge mounted on a filter head includes (a) removing the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head to disengage the connector on the cartridge from the connector segment on the head; (b) providing a new filter cartridge having alternately spaced connectors and disconnectors; (c) mounting the new filter cartridge onto the head by pushing the new filter cartridge axially and rotating the new filter cartridge by less than 90° to engage the connector of the new filter cartridge with the connector segment on the filter head; and (d) compressing a sealing member on the new filter cartridge to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating.

[0024] In the example, the step of providing a new filter cartridge includes providing a filter cartridge having smooth disconnected sections, each of which is equally spaced from one another. Alternatively, the step of mounting a new filter cartridge to a head includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stopper engages to prevent further rotation.

[0025] In another embodiment, a method for maintaining a filtration assembly including a filter cartridge mounted on a filter head includes (a) removing the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head to disengage the connector on the cartridge from the connecting segment on the head; (b) providing a new filter cartridge having a connector, each connector having a plurality of helical profiles extending at a helix angle, each helical profile within each connector having a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within the respective connector; (c) mounting the new filter cartridge onto the head by pushing the new filter cartridge axially and rotating the new filter cartridge by less than 90° to engage the connector of the new filter cartridge with the connecting segment on the filter head; and (d) compressing a sealing member on the new filter cartridge to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating.

[0026] In another embodiment, a method for maintaining a filtration assembly including a filter cartridge mounted on a filter head includes (a) removing the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head to disengage the connector on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head; (b) providing a new filter cartridge having a connector, each connector having a plurality of helical profiles extending at a helix angle, wherein within each connector, each helical profile is axially spaced apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacings; (c) mounting the new filter cartridge onto the head by pushing the new filter cartridge axially and rotating the new filter cartridge by less than 90° to engage the connector of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head; and (d) compressing a sealing member on the new filter cartridge to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating.

[0027] In another aspect, a method of servicing a filtration assembly that includes a filter cartridge attached to a filter head includes: (a) removing the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head to disconnect the connection on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head; (b) providing a new filter cartridge having connections, each connection having a plurality of helical profiles that extend with a twist angle, and within each connection, a first helical profile of the helical profiles being different from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth; (c) attaching the new filter cartridge onto the head by axially pressing the new filter cartridge and rotating the new filter cartridge less than 90° to engage the connection of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head; and (d) compressing a seal member on the new filter cartridge to form a seal therebetween while rotating, between the head and the new filter cartridge.

[0028] In various examples, the step of attaching a new filter cartridge to the head includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stop member is engaged to prevent further rotation, and the step of rotating includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a click is detected by the person performing the method. Or, the click is one or both of an audible click sound or a tactile click feeling. Or, the step of rotating until a click is detected includes rotating until a detent on the new filter cartridge is received within a detent recess of the head. Or, the attaching step includes aligning an outlet opening of the head with a grommet seal member on the new filter cartridge. Or, the step of rotating includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stop member is engaged between the new filter cartridge and the head. Or, the step of providing a new filter cartridge includes providing a filter cartridge characterized variously above.

[0029] In another aspect, a bowl cartridge assembly comprises: (a) a filter cartridge having a media structure; and (b) a bowl having an outer radial wall and an internal volume, the filter cartridge being removably attachable within the internal volume, the outer radial wall having a plurality of connecting portions arranged alternately with non-connecting portions, (i) each connecting portion having a plurality of helical profiles extending with a twist angle, and within each connecting portion, a first helical profile of the helical profiles being different from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth.

[0030] In various examples, the non-connecting portions are smooth. Or, the media structure includes a corrugated media arranged in a tubular shape having an open internal volume. Or, each of the non-connecting portions is equidistant from each other. Or, each connecting portion is identical to another connecting portion. Or, each connecting portion has at least four helical profiles.

[0031] The filter cartridge further includes at least three connection points, or radially projecting stop members extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one helical profile of the connection points. Alternatively, the filter cartridge includes a first end structure having an axial wall covering the media structure.

[0032] In various examples, the first end structure further includes at least one spring biasing deactivator extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure. Or, there are multiple spring biasing deactivators extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure. Or, each spring biasing deactivator includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure. Or, the first end structure is part of a first end cap, the first end cap is fixed to the first end of the medium structure. Or, the second end cap is fixed to the second end of the medium structure. Or, part of the outer radial wall is a radially spaced filter cartridge to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps that define a fluid flow path.

[0033] In another embodiment, the filtration assembly comprises (a) a bowl cartridge assembly as variously characterized above, and (b) a filter head that is removably attached to the filter cartridge and forms a seal between the bowl cartridge assembly and the filter head, and a sealing member.

[0034] In another embodiment, a filter cartridge for use in a bowl cartridge assembly includes: (a) a processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side; (b) a first end structure adjacent to the first end of the medium structure, the first end structure including an outer radial wall and an axial wall, the axial wall covering the first end of the medium structure; and (c) a first plurality of circumferentially spaced radial projections extending from the outer radial wall, wherein (i) the first plurality of radial projections have a first longitudinal length having a terminal portion dimensioned to engage with the rim of the filter bowl when the cartridge is inserted into the filter bowl; and (ii) the first plurality of radial projections are such that the cartridge fits into the filter bowl. (d) a plurality of first circumferentially spaced radial projections having a minimum of one lateral portion oriented to circumferentially abut a portion of the filter bowl when inserted into the filter bowl; (i) a plurality of second circumferentially spaced radial projections extending from the outer radial wall, wherein (i) the second plurality of radial projections have a second longitudinal length shorter than the first longitudinal length, and (ii) the second plurality of radial projections are oriented to assist in the precise rotational positioning of the cartridge within the filter bowl when the cartridge is inserted into the filter bowl; and (e) at least one spring biasing deactivator extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

[0035] In the example, there are a plurality of spring biasing restraints extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure. Alternatively, each spring biasing restraint includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure. Alternatively, the first end structure is part of a first end cap, which is fixed to the first end of the medium structure. Alternatively, it further includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the medium structure. Alternatively, the processing medium structure includes a ribbed medium arranged in a tubular shape with an open internal volume.

[0036] In another embodiment, the bowl cartridge assembly comprises (a) a filter cartridge as variously characterized above, and (b) a bowl having an outer radial wall and an internal volume, the filter cartridge being removablely mounted within the internal volume, the outer radial wall having a plurality of connections alternating with non-connecting portions, and (i) each connection having a plurality of helical profiles extending at a helix angle, wherein within each connection, a first helical profile of the helical profiles differs from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of the profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer radial wall and the axial wall are integrated.

[0038] This disclosure provides various features and techniques that can be implemented in liquid filter devices, such as hydraulic filter devices or lubricant (lubricating oil) filter devices. Selected techniques can preferably be applied to spin-on filter devices.

[0039] The technologies described include features incorporated into one or both of a filter head and / or a filter component that is detachably attached to the filter head.

[0040] It is not necessary to incorporate all of the technologies described herein into a given system in order to obtain at least some advantages in that system. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0041] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a spin-on filter cartridge constructed in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, including the filter cartridge shown in Figure 1, connected to the filter head. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portion of the filter cartridge, with the outer housing removed. [Figure 4] Figure 1 is a disassembled perspective view of the filter cartridge. [Figure 5] This is a plan view of the first end cap used in the filter cartridge shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the first end cap. [Figure 7] Figures 5 and 6 are enlarged dimensions of a portion of the first end cap. [Figure 8] Figure 1 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter cartridge. [Figure 9] Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the filter head used in the filter assembly. [Figure 10] Figure 9 is another bottom perspective view of the filter head. [Figure 11] Figures 9 and 10 show another bottom perspective view of the filter head. [Figure 12] This is a partial cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, showing the filter cartridge of Figure 1, which is detachably attached to the filter head of Figures 9-11. [Figure 13] This is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the filter assembly, which is similar to the assembly in Figure 2 except that the connection segment of the filter head is along the outer radial surface of the filter head and the connection portion of the filter cartridge is along the inner wall of the cartridge. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter assembly, showing the connection between the filter head and the filter cartridge. [Figure 15] Figure 13 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter assembly, showing a part of the interface between the filter head and the filter cartridge. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view of a filter cartridge constructed in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. [Figure 17] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the filter bowl used with the filter cartridge. [Figure 18]Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the filter cartridge in Figure 16 during the steps of being attached to the filter bowl. [Figure 19] Figure 17 is a perspective view showing the filter cartridge from Figure 16 fully installed in the filter bowl. [Figure 20] Figure 8 is similar to this diagram, showing some alternative embodiments of the filter cartridges used herein. [Figure 21] Figures 8 and 20 are similar to other figures showing alternative embodiments of some of the filter cartridges used herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] In Figure 2, reference numeral 20 indicates, as a whole, the liquid filter assembly according to the present disclosure. The liquid filter assembly 20 includes a filter head 22 and a filter cartridge 24. The filter head 22 is typically installed in equipment in a liquid line, for example, a hydraulic line or a lubricating fluid (lubricating oil) line. During maintenance, the filter head 22 is typically left in place in the equipment.

[0043] On the other hand, the filter cartridge 24 is removably mounted on the filter head 22. Maintenance is provided by replacing the medium contained within the filter cartridge 24. The filter cartridge 24 shown herein is a spin-on type filter cartridge. Therefore, during maintenance, the entire filter cartridge 24, including the medium and outer housing, is removed and discarded and replaced with a completely new filter cartridge 24.

[0044] A cross-section in Figure 2 shows the central longitudinal axis 26, around which the filter assembly 20 is positioned. The terms “axial,” “in the axial direction,” and their variations, as used herein, are generally intended to refer to features extending in the general direction of the axis 26. The terms “radial,” “in the radial direction,” and their variations are intended to refer to directions toward or away from the axis 26.

[0045] Referring further to Figure 2, the filter head 22 includes a liquid inlet 28 and a liquid outlet 30. During operation, the liquid to be filtered is guided to the filter head 22 through the inlet 28. The liquid is then guided through the filter cartridge 24 for filtration. The filtered liquid is then returned to the filter head 22 and discharged through the outlet 30.

[0046] In a typical system, the filter head 22 includes a cast metal part, such as cast aluminum, with various added features.

[0047] While many embodiments are possible, in the embodiment shown, the filter head 22 includes a flange 32 which may have bolt holes 34, 35 for securing the filter in 22 to the equipment.

[0048] The end wall 36 is fixed to the flange 32. The end wall 36 typically includes an inlet opening 38 that communicates with an inlet 28, allowing liquid to flow from the filter head 22 to the cartridge 24. The end wall 36 also has an outlet opening 40 that allows filtered liquid to flow from the cartridge 24 to the filter head 22, and can be discharged through the main outlet 30.

[0049] Extending axially from the end wall 36 is a circumferential band 42. The band 42 has an enclosure wall 44 having an outer surface 46 and an inner or inner radial surface 48 on the opposite side. The inner radial surface 48 includes a system that allows for selective attachment and detachment between the filter head 22 and the filter cartridge 24, which will be discussed further below.

[0050] The filter cartridge 24 is shown in the perspective view of Figure 2 and in the cross-section of Figure 2 connected to the filter head 22. The filter cartridge 24 includes a filter housing 50. The filter housing 50 includes an outer can or shell 52 having a casing 54. The casing 54 has an outer surface 56 and an inner surface 58 on the opposite side. It has a closed bottom 60 and an opening 62 on the opposite side that interfaces with the filter head 22.

[0051] The shell 52 may include a plurality of anti-slip dimples 53 adjacent to the mouth 62 and spaced circumferentially around the shell 52. The dimples 53 help allow the user to grip the cartridge 24 when installing or removing the cartridge 24 and filter head 22.

[0052] Typically, the outer shell 52 comprises metal components. The housing 50 defines an internal volume 64. Within the internal volume 64, a filter medium structure 66 is positioned. The filter medium structure 66 comprises a filter medium 68 positioned in the extension between a second (lower) end cap 70 and a first (upper) end structure 71. The end structure 71 is adjacent to the first end of the medium structure 66 and can be part of the first end cap 72 fixed to the medium structure 66. The medium 68 can comprise a variety of materials selected for the specific operation and conditions encountered. Typically, the filter medium 68 is supplied in a pleated form, but alternative forms are also possible. Various types or shapes of medium or medium pleats can be used. Adhesive beads can, for example, help maintain the integrity of the medium and the spacing of the pleats. In some alternative devices, the medium 68 can be covered with a plastic or wire mesh screen as needed.

[0053] The filter medium structure 66 can be tubular in shape and can be configured around the open filter internal volume 74 to define the open filter internal volume 74. The internal medium support 76 is positioned within the open filter internal volume 74 and, in this example, comprises a porous liner that extends along the medium 68 between the end caps 70, 72 and is fixed to the end caps 70, 72.

[0054] While alternatives are possible, in the example shown, the second end cap 70 is a closed end cap, meaning it has a closed center that prevents the passage of unfiltered liquid. The tubular filter medium structure 66 has a first end 80 fixed to the first end cap 72 and a second end 82 on the opposite side fixed to the second end cap 70. The medium 68 is fixed to the second end cap 70 by various methods, including adhesive or potting, or by molding the medium 68 into place. Various materials can be used for the end cap 70, and these may include metal or plastic.

[0055] On the other hand, the first end cap 72 is typically an open end cap defining a central flow hole 84 through which the end cap passes. The hole 84 is positioned to be in direct flow communication with the interior 74 of the medium 68. In this specification, the term “direct flow communication” is intended to refer to a passage that is capable of flow communication with the interior 74 without requiring a flow path through the medium 68. That is, the liquid in the interior 74 can flow directly through the hole 84 without simultaneously passing through the medium 68. Naturally, in the first example for an “outside-to-inside” flow device as described, the liquid cannot reach the interior 74 without first passing through the medium 68.

[0056] As shown, the illustrated filter cartridge 24 is configured for an outside-to-inflow during filtration. This means that the unfiltered liquid is guided from the filter head 22 to the annular section 86 between the inner surfaces 58 of the wall 54 around the medium 68, then through the medium 68, through the support 76, and into the interior 74. The filtered liquid is guided upward through the central flow hole 84 of the first end cap 72, returns to the filter head 22 through the outlet opening 40, and then exits through the outlet 30.

[0057] Furthermore, many of the principles described herein can be used in relation to “inside-to-out” flow devices in which the flow direction of the liquid being filtered is reversed, that is, entering the interior 76 through the hole 84, entering the annular section 86 through the medium 68, and then returning to the filter head 22.

[0058] Generally, when a liquid flow is guided through the filter cartridge 24, a sealing device is required between the filter cartridge 24 and the filter head 22 to prevent the liquid flow from bypassing the medium 68. Such a sealing device is provided by a sealing member 88 on the cartridge 24 to form a seal between the cartridge 24 and the filter head 22.

[0059] Focusing on Figures 3-7, the first end structure 71 is shown, either by itself or with other features. The first end structure 71 includes an outer radial wall 90. The outer radial wall 90 extends along at least a portion of the length of the filter medium structure 66 in the direction from the first end 80 toward the second end 82. The outer radial wall 90 covers or overlaps a portion of the medium structure 66. While many examples are possible, in the example shown, the outer radial wall 90 overlaps the filter medium structure between the first end 80 and the second end 82 by less than 25% and more than 5% of the total length of the filter medium structure.

[0060] In Figure 8, the outer radial wall 90 of the first end structure 71 is shown in an enlarged view. The outer radial wall 90 defines a seal member seat 92 that holds a seal member 88. In the example shown, the seal member seat 92 has a pair of radially outward-extending flanges 94, 95, with a wall portion 96 between them. The seal member 88 is positioned between the flanges 94, 95.

[0061] Furthermore, referring to Figure 8, we can see how the housing 50 is attached to the first end structure 71. Although many different techniques are available, in the example shown, the housing 50 is attached to the outer radial wall 90. In particular, the housing 50 is irremovably fixed or secured to the outer radial wall 90 by folding it over at least the first flange of the flange 95. The housing 50 can cover at least a portion of the wall 96 between the flanges 94, 95. In some embodiments, the housing 50 can similarly fold over at least a portion of the second flange of the flange 94, and the fold 97 can completely cover the wall 96. In Figure 8, the sealing member 88 is oriented radially outward relative to the housing 50 at the sealing member seat 92. In the example shown, the housing 50 is sandwiched between the sealing member 88 and the wall 96 of the outer radial wall 90 of the first end structure 71.

[0062] The first end structure 71 further includes an axial wall 100. The axial wall 100 covers the first end 80 of the medium structure 66. Generally, the outer radial wall 90 extends at an angle of about 90° with respect to the axial wall 100. The axial wall 100 defines a central flow hole 84. The central flow hole 84 can further house sealing members, such as a grommet sealing member 102, for connection to a filter head 22, for example, a portion of the filter head 22 defining an outlet opening 40.

[0063] The first end structure 71 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced disconnects 107, as shown in the exemplary figures 107a, 107b, and 107c. The disconnects 107 generally lie along the outer radial wall 90 as either a complete gap (no wall structure at all) or a smooth portion of the wall 90, or a portion of the wall 90 that does not interfere with the filter head 22 when the filter head 22 is mounted on the cartridge 24. In a preferred embodiment, the disconnects 107 have equal circumferential lengths and are equally spaced from one another. In this case, if there are three disconnects 107a, 107b, and 107c, they are spaced 60° apart from each other.

[0064] According to the principles of this disclosure, the filter cartridge 24 includes a system that enables low-friction installation of the cartridge 24 onto the filter head 22, including simple insertion of the cartridge and rotation less than a full rotation. In this embodiment, the system includes a connection system 104. The connection system 104 enables low-friction insertion of the cartridge 24 and rotation of less than 180°, for example, about 60°. The connection system 104 is suitable for eliminating cross-threading and having connectors specific to a particular customer.

[0065] In the exemplary embodiments shown, the connection system 104 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connection sections, as shown herein as 106, 108, and 110. Each connection section 106, 108, 110 includes a plurality of helical profiles 112, 113. There may be at least two helical profiles 112, 113, and more than two helical profiles, for example, three helical profiles 112, 113, 114. In the example shown, there are four helical profiles 112, 113, 114, 115 (Figure 8).

[0066] Each of the helical profiles 112, 113, 114, and 115 extends along and protrudes from the outer radial wall 90. The “helical profile” is intended to be a geometric outline along the outermost boundary that has a typical helical shape when continuous. A helical profile is not a screw. In a helical profile, a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis passes through more than one profile, whereas in a screw, a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis passes through only one thread shape.

[0067] Refer to Figure 8. In the embodiment shown, there are four helical profiles 112, 113, 114, and 115. As can be seen from Figure 7, the helical profiles 112–115 extend with a helix angle 116. The term “helix angle” refers to the angle of each helical profile 112–115 with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 26. In Figure 7, the helix angle is indicated by reference nominal

[0068] In Figure 12, 118c represents the amount of seal compression, which is influenced by the torsion angle 116.

[0069] Each of the helical profiles 112-115 is spaced axially apart from adjacent helical profiles 112-115. The “axial spacing” is the spacing between the load-bearing surfaces of each of the profiles 112-115. The “load-bearing” surface is the surface relative to the threads of the filter head when connected. In this embodiment, the load-bearing surfaces are shown as 112a, 113a, 114a, and 115a in Figure 20. The axial spacing between each of the individual helical profiles 112-115 can be the same or different. In the embodiments shown, the spacings are different. For example, Figures 8 and 20 show the axial distance between connection points 112 and 113 at D1, the distance between connection points 113 and 114 at D2, and the distance between connection points 114 and 115 at D3. In some embodiments, D1, D2, and D3 can each be equal, but in many preferred embodiments, D1, D2, and D3 are each different values.

[0070] Each of the helical profiles 112 to 115 has a cross-sectional shape. The cross-sectional shapes of each of the helical profiles 112 to 115 can all be the same, or preferably they can be different from each other. Preferably, each of the helical profiles 112 to 115 in each connection part 106, 108, 110 has a cross-sectional shape different from at least one other helical profile 112 to 115 in each connection part 106, 108, 110.

[0071] For example, in Figures 8 and 20, the uppermost helical profile 112 has a trapezoidal shape, in which one of the non-parallel sides 112a is contained within a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 26, and the other non-parallel side 112b is angled with respect to that same plane. The helical profile 113 is shown as rectangular, and it could be square. The helical profile 114 is shown as trapezoidal, in which both non-parallel sides are angled with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 26. The helical profile 115 is shown as having a rounded cross-section. These are merely examples, and it should be understood that there are many, many different shapes and combinations that can be used. In fact, each customer of these cartridges 24 can request their own specific "code" for the helical profile.

[0072] Figure 21 shows alternative combinations of helical profiles, including different axial depths of the load-bearing surfaces of the profiles. In the example in Figure 21, there are three helical profiles 312, 313, and 314, which differ in shape, axial spacing, and load-bearing depth. All three helical profiles 312, 313, and 314 are trapezoidal, but are shaped differently from each other. The axial spacing between profiles 312a and 313a is denoted by D1, while the axial spacing between profiles 313a and 314a is denoted by D2. Unlike D1 and D2, D1 is greater than D2. The axial depths are denoted by H1, H2, and H3. They are measured from the base of each of the axial support surfaces 312a, 313a, and 314a, and from the respective ends (free ends) of the helical profiles 312, 313, and 314. The axial depths H1, H2, and H3 are different from each other in this exemplary embodiment.

[0073] From a closer examination of Figures 8, 20, and 21, it should be recognized that when selecting a combination of helical profiles, at least one (or more) of the helical profiles can be altered from at least one of the others by any combination of profile shape, axial spacing, and / or axial depth, and / or these properties.

[0074] Preferably, each connection portion 106, 108, 110 is identical to the other connection portions 106, 108, 110. This means that when mounting the cartridge 24 onto the filter head 22, the user does not need to worry about the exact fit of the connection portions 106, 108, 110 to the specific receiving connection segment on the filter head 22. The filter cartridge 24 is constructed such that the filter housing 50 is irremovably fixed to the outer radial wall 90 at the mouth 62, and the connection portions 106, 108, 110 of the outer radial wall 90 are located outside the filter housing 50. In fact, the connection portions 106, 108, 110 are located axially above the end portion 98 (Figure 8) of the housing 50.

[0075] Preferably, the outer radial wall 90 has a plurality of alternately spaced circumferentially spaced connecting portions 106, 108, 110 and smooth non-connecting portions 107a, 107b, 107c. The connecting portions 106, 108, 110 can be interrupted in short portions that do not form a connection with the filter head 22, and generally, in preferred examples, the non-connecting portion 107 does not have a structure along the radial wall 90 that forms a connection or attachment to the filter head 22, although alternative structures are possible. Any interruption in the connecting portions 106, 108, 110 that do not form a connection with the filter head 22 is not considered to be within the definition of a “non-connecting portion”.

[0076] Referring here to Figures 9-11, the filter head 22 is shown in more detail. The inner radial surface 48 of the filter head 22 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments 122, 124, and 126, constructed and positioned to interlock with the connecting portions 106, 108, and 110 of the filter cartridge 24. Focusing on Figure 12, it can be seen how the connecting segments 122, 124, and 126 interlock with the connecting portions 106, 108, and 110. In particular, each of the connecting segments 122, 124, and 126 has a profile 128, which is a mirror image of the profile shape of the connecting portions 106, 108, and 110. Thus, the profile 128 includes a recess having the same cross-sectional shape as the helical profiles 112-115. For example, the profile 128 has an uppermost profile recess 130 that interlocks with the trapezoidal shape of the helical profile 112. Similarly, profile recess 131 has a rectangular shape that engages with the cross-sectional shape of the helical profile 113. Profile recess 132 has a trapezoidal shape that matches the shape of the helical profile 114, while profile recess 133 has a round shape that receives a round shape that receives a round helical profile 115. Naturally, if the cross-sectional shapes of the helical profiles 112-115 change, the corresponding profile recesses 130-133 also change accordingly.

[0077] As can be seen from Figures 9-11, the connecting segments 122, 124, and 126 are spaced apart circumferentially along the inner radial surface 48 and are separated by the smooth, grooveless portions 135, 136, and 137 of the inner radial surface 48.

[0078] Focusing on Figures 5 and 6, one preferred first end structure 71 is shown. The first end structure 71 is constructed and arranged to have an inlet device 140. In exemplary embodiments, the inlet device 140 includes a plurality of fluid passages 142, which can be inlet openings 142 in the first end structure 71. The fluid to be filtered enters the filter assembly 20, flows through the inlet 28 to the filter head 22, and exits the filter head 22 through the inlet opening 38 to enter the filter cartridge 24. The filtered fluid enters the annular portion 86 of the cartridge 24 by flowing through the inlet opening 142 of the first end structure 71.

[0079] In this embodiment, the outer radial wall 90 of the first end structure 71 is attached to the axial wall 100 at a distance from the axial wall 100 to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps 144 between them. The gaps 144 function as inlet openings 142. In the preferred embodiment shown, the circumferentially spaced connections 106, 108, and 110 alternate with the open gaps 144 of the outer radial wall 90. The gaps 144 correspond to non-connected portions 107. The outer radial wall 90 has a continuous wall ring 146 at its distal end 148 from the axial wall 100. The continuous ring 146 is continuous in that it surrounds the entire outer circumference of the first end structure 71. The continuous ring 146 holds a sealing member 88 thereon.

[0080] In an exemplary embodiment, the gap 144 forming the inlet opening 142 is located between the ring 146 and the non-connecting portions 107a, 107b, and 107c.

[0081] The filter cartridge 24 may further include a stopper member 150. The stopper member 150 provides an engagement surface to a portion of the filter head 22 for contact or engagement when the filter cartridge 24 is attached to and fixed to the filter head 22. The stopper member 150 provides the user with feedback that the cartridge 24 is fully engaged on the filter head 22 by the engagement of the connecting portions 106, 108, 110 and the connecting segments 122, 124, 126. The engagement between the filter head 22 and the stopper member 150 prevents further rotation of the filter cartridge 24 relative to the filter head 22.

[0082] In the embodiments shown, the stop member 150 projects radially from the outer radial wall 90 of the first end structure 71. In the exemplary embodiments shown, the stop member 150 extends from the outer radial wall 90 at the end of at least one helical profile 112-115 of the connecting sections 106, 108, and 110. In the examples shown in Figures 5 and 7, only a single stop member 150 is present on the first end structure 71. In some embodiments, the stop member 150 may extend from the respective end of the connecting sections 106, 108, and 110.

[0083] In some variations, the helical profiles 112-115 may include ridges projecting toward the ends of the profiles that engage immediately before complete mounting between the filter head 22 and the cartridge 24. The ridges require additional torque at the end of the mounting process between the connecting segments 122, 124, and 126 and the connecting parts 106, 108, and 110. The ridges help prevent unintended breakage between the filter head 22 and the cartridge 24, for example, due to vibration.

[0084] According to the principles of this disclosure, the filter cartridge 24 may further include at least one spring-biased deactivation restraint 160. The deactivation restraint 160 extends axially outward from the axial wall 100 of the first end structure 71. In many preferred embodiments, and in the embodiments shown, there are a plurality of spring-biased deactivation restraints 160, 161, 162, each extending axially outward from the axial wall 100 of the first end structure 71. The spring-biased deactivation restraints 160, 161, 162 are spaced circumferentially apart from each other, radially outward from the central flow hole 84, and radially inward from the inlet opening 142.

[0085] Each spring biasing restraint 160, 161, 162 includes a spring such as a leaf spring 171, 172, 173 attached to the axial wall 100, which allows for the elastic deflection of the axial restraints 160, 161, 162.

[0086] The return stoppers 160, 161, and 162 are received by return stopper recesses 164, 165, and 166 defined within the inner surface 176 of the end wall 36 of the filter head 22. The interaction between the return stoppers 160-162 and the return stopper recesses 164-166 provides feedback, such as an audible "click," to inform the user that the filter cartridge 24 is properly mounted on the filter head 22. The return stoppers 160, 161, and 162 also help prevent the filter cartridge 24 from loosening from the filter head 22 due to vibration during operation. In addition to being audible, the feedback can also be tactile, in that the user can sense when the return stoppers 160-162 are in the recesses 164-166.

[0087] An alternative embodiment of the filter assembly 20 is shown as 20' in Figures 13-15. The structure and features of assembly 20' are the same as those of assembly 20, and their descriptions and features are not repeated here but are incorporated herein by reference. The difference between assembly 20 and assembly 20' is that a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments 122' are on the outer radial surface 200 of the band 42' filter head 22', while the connecting portion 106' of the filter cartridge 24' is along the inner wall 202 of the end cap 72'. The end cap 72' has a casing 204 located radially outward of the outer diameter of the filter medium 68'. The casing 204 includes an extension 206 projecting axially from the first end 80' of the medium 68' in the opposite direction from the medium 68'. The volume 208 within the extended portion 206, between the end cap 72' and the terminal portion 210 of the extended portion 206, is dimensioned to receive the band 42' of the filter head 22'.

[0088] In Figures 14 and 15, it will be understood that the enclosure 54 of the can 52 is irremovably attached to the rest of the cartridge 24'. In the example shown, the can 52 is attached to the end cap 72' by being folded or crimped at the crimped portion 212 on the end portion 210 of the end cap extension 206.

[0089] The axial wall 100' of the end cap 72' may include stoppers such as 160', 162' protruding therefrom. The stoppers 160', 162' are received within stopper recesses of the filter head 22' and provide feedback in the form of an audible click or tactile click sensation.

[0090] A sealing member 102', which provides a seal between the unfiltered flow on the inlet side (dirty side) of the medium 68' and the outlet side (clean side) of the medium 68', can be seen in Figures 14 and 15. The sealing member 102' is located around the outlet 84' of the cartridge 24'. In the filter head 22', the unfiltered liquid flows into the cartridge 24' through the unfiltered liquid port 220. After flowing through the medium 68', the filtered liquid returns to the head 22' through the filtered liquid port 222.

[0091] An alternative embodiment of the bowl cartridge assembly is shown in Figures 16-19 as 402. The bowl cartridge assembly 402 includes a filter cartridge 404 and a filter bowl 406.

[0092] The filter cartridge 404 is insertable, removable, and replaceable within the filter bowl 406. The filter bowl 406 is removablely connected to / attached to a filter head, such as the filter head 22 in Figures 9 and 10. Figure 18 shows the filter cartridge 404 partially mounted inside 408 of the filter bowl 406, and Figure 19 shows the filter cartridge 404 fully mounted and positioned inside 408 of the filter bowl 408.

[0093] The filter cartridge 404 can be changed. In the example shown, the filter cartridge 404 has a tubular (e.g., cylindrical) portion of a pleated filter medium 410. At the opposite end of the filter medium 410 are first and second end structures or end caps 412, 414. The first end cap 412 is an open end cap having a through opening 416 that communicates with the interior of the pleated filter medium. The second end cap 414 can be open or closed. It may have a sealing member 417 surrounding the opening 416.

[0094] The first end cap 412 may include at least one, in the shown example, multiple spring-biased retainers 420, 421, 422, each extending axially outward from the axial wall 419 of the first end cap 412. The spring-biased retainers 420, 421, 422 are analogous to the retainers 160, 161, 162, and the descriptions of 160, 161, 162 apply to the retainers 420, 421, 422 and are not repeated. The retainers 420, 421, 422 are received, for example, by retainer recesses 164, 165, 166 defined within the inner surface 176 of the end wall 36 of the filter head 22, providing feedback such as an audible "click" sound to inform the user that the filter cartridge 404 is properly mounted on the filter head 22, and further preventing the filter cartridge 404 from loosening from the filter head 22 due to vibration during operation. Feedback can be not only audible but also tactile.

[0095] The first end cap 412 includes a first plurality of circumferentially spaced radial projections 430 that extend radially from the outer circumference 413 of the first end cap 412. The first plurality of radial projections 430 have a first longitudinal length having a terminal portion 431 that is dimensioned to engage with the rim 432 filter bowl 406 when the cartridge 404 is inserted into the filter bowl 406.

[0096] The first set of radial projections 430 each have a minimum of one lateral (or transverse) portion 433 oriented to circumferentially abut a portion of the filter bowl 406 when the cartridge 404 is inserted into the bowl 406. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, the lateral portion 433 circumferentially engages with the side edges 434 of spaced-apart connectors 446, 448, and 450 (described later), which help to position or measure the spring-biased retainers 420, 421, and 422 at an angle to the filter head 22. The radial projections 430 also prevent the cartridge 404 from rotating within the bowl 406 by engaging with the side edges 434 of the connectors 446, 448, and 450.

[0097] The first end cap 412 further includes a second plurality of circumferentially spaced radial projections 435 extending from the outer radial wall 413. The second plurality of radial projections 435 have a second longitudinal length shorter than the first longitudinal length of the first radial projection 430.

[0098] The second set of radial projections 435 are oriented to assist in the precise rotational positioning of the cartridge 404 within the filter bowl 406 when the cartridge 404 is inserted into the filter bowl 406. The second set of radial projections 435 interfere with the connectors 446, 448, and 450, thereby preventing the cartridge 404 from being inserted into the bowl 406 unless it is properly aligned with the bowl 406.

[0099] According to the principles of this disclosure, the filter bowl 406 includes an outer radial wall 407 that forms an enclosure therein defining an internal volume 408. The filter bowl 406 has a system that allows for low-friction installation of the bowl cartridge assembly 402 onto the filter head 22, including simple insertion of the assembly 402 and rotation less than a full rotation. In this embodiment, the system includes a connection system 440, similar to system 104 described above and not repeated again here. The connection system 440 works like system 104, allowing for low-friction insertion of the assembly 402 and rotation less than 180°, for example, about 60°. The connection system 440 is suitable for eliminating cross-threading and having connectors specific to a particular customer. The connection system 440 is mounted on the outer radial wall 407.

[0100] The connection system 440, shown herein as 446, 448, and 450, includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connection portions similar to connection portions 106, 108, and 110, and has a plurality of helical profiles 452, 453, and 454 similar to helical profiles 112, 113, and 114. The helical profiles 452, 453, and 454 can have various properties as described above in relation to Figures 8, 20, and 21, which are incorporated herein by reference and will not be repeated here again.

[0101] When the filter cartridge 404 is mounted to the bowl 406, flow gaps 462 and 464 are created between the filter cartridge 404 and the filter bowl 406. Flow gaps 462 and 464 are also present circumferentially between adjacent connectors 446, 448, and 450. When fixed to the filter head 22, the flow gaps 462 and 464 can serve as flow passages for the inlet fluid flow to be filtered. The fluid to be filtered flows from the filter head 22 to the filter assembly 402 and then to the flow gaps 462 and 464. The fluid then flows radially through the filter medium 410 (which removes impurities from the fluid) into the filter interior. From there, the fluid exits the filter assembly 402 by flowing through the opening 416 of the first end cap 412 and returns to the filter head 22. After the service life, the filter cartridge 404 can be removed from the bowl 406 and replaced with a new filter cartridge 404. The bowl 406 is attached to the filter head 22 by the engagement of the connection system 440, as described above with respect to system 104.

[0102] The bowl cartridge assembly 402 can be used with a filter head, such as the filter head 22, to form a filter assembly.

[0103] A method for maintaining the filter assembly 20 can be carried out using the above principle. After a period of operation, the filter cartridge 24 requires maintenance by replacing the cartridge 24 because the filter medium 68 becomes clogged. To maintain the filter assembly 20, the old filter cartridge 24 is removed from the filter head 22 and discarded. To remove the old filter cartridge 24 from the filter head, the cartridge 24 is rotated relative to the filter head 22, preferably by hand and without the use of tools. The cartridge 24 is rotated so as to detach the connecting parts 106, 108, and 110 from the connecting segments 122, 124, and 126. This also releases the sealing member 88, making it possible to pull the cartridge 24 axially away from the filter head 22.

[0104] Next, a new filter cartridge 24 having a new medium 68 is provided. The new filter cartridge 24 is mounted to the filter head 22 by aligning the outlet opening 40 of the filter head 22 with the grommet sealing member 102 of the cartridge 24. The cartridge 24 is pushed axially toward the filter head 22 and then rotated by less than 90°, usually 60° or less. The cartridge 24 is rotated so that the connecting portions 106, 108, 110 engage with or mesh with the connecting segments 122, 124, 126. The cartridge 24 can rotate until the stop member 150 prevents further rotation of the cartridge 24 within the filter head 22. As the cartridge 24 rotates within the filter head 22, the sealing member 88 is compressed to form a seal between the filter head 22 and the cartridge 24. During the rotation step, the stoppers 160, 161, and 162 are received within the stopper recesses 164, 165, and 166, and the cartridge 24 rotates until feedback in the form of an audible click or tactile click sensation is detected by the user. This ensures that the filter cartridge 24 is properly mounted on the filter head 22 and that the filter assembly 20 is ready for filtration again.

[0105] The above represents illustrative principles. Many embodiments can be created using these principles.

Claims

1. (a) A processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, (b) A first end structure adjacent to the first end of the media structure, wherein the first end structure includes an outer radial wall and an axial wall. (i) The axial wall covers the first end of the media structure, (ii) The outer radial wall has a plurality of connecting portions that are arranged alternately with non-connecting portions, The first end structure and (c) A filter housing having an exterior, interior, bottom, and an enclosure wall defining the opposite opening, (i) The filter housing is fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening, (ii) The media structure is located inside the enclosure and spaced apart from the enclosure, filter housing and A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

2. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the outer radial wall overlaps with a part of the media structure.

3. The filter cartridge according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the non-connected portion is smooth.

4. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the processing medium structure includes a pleated medium arranged in a tubular shape having an open internal volume.

5. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the bottom of the filter housing is closed.

6. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each of the non-connected portions is equally spaced from one another.

7. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a sealing member fixed to the outside of the filter housing.

8. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is located outside the filter housing.

9. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the outer outer portion of the outer radial wall.

10. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the inner portion of the outer radial wall.

11. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle.

12. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each of the helical profiles within each connection portion has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within the same connection portion.

13. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein within each connection, each of the helical profiles is spaced axially apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacing.

14. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each connection part is identical to the other connection parts.

15. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein each connection portion has at least four helical profiles.

16. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein at least three connection points are present.

17. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising a radially projecting stop member extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one of the helical profiles of the connection portion.

18. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 17, further comprising at least one spring biasing return restraint extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

19. The filter cartridge according to claim 18, wherein there are a plurality of spring biasing return stops extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

20. The filter cartridge according to claim 18 or 19, wherein each spring biasing return stop includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure.

21. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first end structure is part of a first end cap, and the first end cap is fixed to the first end of the media structure.

22. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 21, further comprising a second end cap fixed to the second end of the media structure.

23. (a) The outer radial wall of the first end structure includes a sealing member seat having a pair of radially outward-extending flanges with a wall portion between them, (b) The housing is attached to the outer radial wall by being folded over at least the first flange of the flanges to cover the wall portion, (c) The sealing member is oriented radially outward with respect to the housing in the sealing member seat. A filter cartridge according to claim 7 or any one of claims 1 to 22.

24. The filter cartridge according to claim 4 or any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the first end structure includes a hole that communicates with the open internal volume.

25. The filter cartridge according to claim 24, further comprising a sealing member directed toward the hole in the first end structure.

26. The filter cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the sealing member is a grommet.

27. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein a portion of the outer radial wall is spaced axially away from the axial wall in order to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps that define a fluid flow path.

28. The filter cartridge according to claim 27, wherein the outer radial wall includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting portions that are arranged alternately with the gap.

29. The filter cartridge according to claim 7, 27, or 28, wherein the outer radial wall has a continuous ring at its distal end from the axial wall, and the continuous ring holds the sealing member thereon.

30. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 29, wherein each of the non-connected portions is spaced apart from one another.

31. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the filter housing is irremovably fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening.

32. (a) A processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, (b) A first end structure adjacent to the first end of the media structure, (c) The first end structure includes an outer radial wall and an axial wall, (i) The axial wall covers the first end of the media structure, (ii) The outer radial wall has a plurality of circumferentially spaced connection portions, and each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, (iii) Each of the helical profiles within each connection has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within the same connection. The first end structure and (d) A filter housing having an exterior, interior, bottom, and an enclosure wall defining the opposite opening, (i) The filter housing is fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening, (ii) The media structure is located inside the enclosure and spaced apart from the enclosure, filter housing and A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

33. Within each connection point, The filter cartridge according to claim 32, wherein each of the helical profiles is spaced axially apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacing.

34. (a) A processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, (b) A first end structure adjacent to the first end of the media structure, (c) The first end structure includes an outer radial wall and an axial wall, (i) The axial wall covers the first end of the media structure, (ii) The outer radial wall has a plurality of circumferentially spaced connection portions, and each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, (iii) Within each connection, each of the helical profiles is spaced axially apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and the second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacing. The first end structure and (d) A filter housing having an exterior, interior, bottom, and an enclosure wall defining the opposite opening, (i) The filter housing is fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening, (ii) The media structure is located inside the enclosure and spaced apart from the enclosure, filter housing and A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

35. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the connecting portion is separated on the outer radial wall by a plurality of non-connecting portions, and the non-connecting portions are spaced apart from each other.

36. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 35, wherein the outer radial wall overlaps with a part of the media structure.

37. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 36, wherein the processing medium structure includes a pleated medium arranged in a tubular shape having an open internal volume.

38. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 37, wherein the bottom of the filter housing is closed.

39. The filter cartridge according to claim 35, wherein each of the non-connected portions is equally spaced from one another.

40. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 39, further comprising a sealing member fixed to the outside of the filter housing.

41. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 40, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is located outside the filter housing.

42. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 41, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the outer outer portion of the outer radial wall.

43. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 42, wherein the connection portion of the outer radial wall is along the inner portion of the outer radial wall.

44. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 43, wherein each connection part is identical to the other connection parts.

45. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 44, wherein each connection portion has at least four helical profiles.

46. A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 45, wherein at least three connection points are present.

47. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 46, further comprising a radially projecting stop member extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one of the helical profiles of the connection portion.

48. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 47, further comprising at least one spring biasing return restraint extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

49. The filter cartridge according to claim 48, wherein there are a plurality of spring biasing return stops extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

50. The filter cartridge according to claim 48 or 49, wherein each spring biasing return stop includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure.

51. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 50, wherein the first end structure is part of the first end cap and is fixed to the first end of the media structure.

52. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 51, further comprising a second end cap fixed to the second end of the media structure.

53. (a) The outer radial wall of the first end structure includes a sealing member seat having a pair of radially outward-extending flanges with a wall portion between them, (b) The housing is attached to the outer radial wall by being folded over at least the first flange of the flanges to cover the wall portion, (c) The sealing member is oriented radially outward with respect to the housing in the sealing member seat. A filter cartridge according to claim 40 or any one of claims 32 to 52.

54. The filter cartridge according to claim 37 or any one of claims 32 to 53, wherein the first end structure includes a hole that communicates with the open internal volume.

55. The filter cartridge according to claim 54, further comprising a sealing member directed toward the hole in the first end structure.

56. The filter cartridge according to claim 55, wherein the sealing member is a grommet.

57. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 56, wherein a portion of the outer radial wall is spaced axially away from the axial wall in order to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps that define a fluid flow path.

58. The filter cartridge according to claim 57, wherein the outer radial wall includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting portions that are arranged alternately with the gap.

59. The filter cartridge according to claim 40, 57, or 58, wherein the outer radial wall has a continuous ring at its distal end from the axial wall, and the continuous ring holds the sealing member thereon.

60. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 32 to 59, wherein the filter housing is irremovably fixed to the outer radial wall at the opening.

61. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 34 to 60, wherein each of the helical profiles within each connection portion has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within each connection portion.

62. (a) A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 61, (b) A filter head that is removably attached to the filter cartridge and forms a seal with the sealing member of the filter cartridge A filtration assembly comprising:

63. The aforementioned filter head (a) End wall (36) and (b) A circumferential band extending axially from the end wall, comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments constructed and arranged to engage with the connecting portion of the filter cartridge, and The filtration assembly according to claim 62, including the following:

64. The filtration assembly according to claim 63, wherein the plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments are located on the inner radial surface of the band.

65. The filtration assembly according to claim 63, wherein the plurality of circumferentially spaced connecting segments are located on the outer radial surface of the band.

66. Filter cartridge according to any one of claims 18 to 20 or 48 to 50 Includes, (a) The end wall includes an inner surface enclosed by the band, and the inner surface of the end wall includes one or more recesses positioned to receive the spring biasing return, The filtration assembly according to any one of claims 63 to 65.

67. A method for maintaining and inspecting a filtration assembly, including a filter cartridge attached to a filter head, (a) To remove the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head in order to detach the connection portion on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head, (b) To provide a new filter cartridge having connecting and disconnecting parts that are alternately spaced apart in the circumferential direction, (c) To engage the connection portion of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head, the new filter cartridge is pushed axially and rotated by less than 90° to mount the new filter cartridge onto the head, (d) Compressing the sealing member on the new filter cartridge in order to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating it. Methods that include...

68. The method according to claim 67, wherein the step of providing the new filter cartridge includes providing a filter cartridge having smooth non-connecting portions, each of which is equally spaced from one another.

69. The method according to claim 67 or 68, wherein the step of attaching the new filter cartridge to the head includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stop member engages to prevent further rotation.

70. A method for maintaining and inspecting a filtration assembly, including a filter cartridge attached to a filter head, (a) To remove the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head in order to detach the connection portion on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head, (b) To provide a new filter cartridge having a connection portion, wherein each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and each of the helical profiles within each connection portion has a different cross-sectional shape from at least one other helical profile within that connection portion. (c) To engage the connection portion of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head, the new filter cartridge is pushed axially and rotated by less than 90° to mount the new filter cartridge onto the head, (d) Compressing the sealing member on the new filter cartridge in order to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating it. Methods that include...

71. A method for maintaining and inspecting a filtration assembly, including a filter cartridge attached to a filter head, (a) To remove the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head in order to detach the connection portion on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head, (b) To provide a new filter cartridge having a connection portion, wherein each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and within each connection portion, each of the helical profiles is spaced axially apart from adjacent helical profiles, and the axial spacing between at least one helical profile and a second helical profile is different from the remaining axial spacings. (c) To engage the connection portion of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head, the new filter cartridge is pushed axially and rotated by less than 90° to mount the new filter cartridge onto the head, (d) Compressing the sealing member on the new filter cartridge in order to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating it. Methods that include...

72. A method for maintaining and inspecting a filtration assembly, including a filter cartridge attached to a filter head, (a) To remove the filter cartridge from the filter head by rotating the cartridge relative to the head in order to detach the connection portion on the cartridge from the connection segment on the head, (b) To provide a new filter cartridge having a connection portion, wherein each connection portion has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and within each connection portion, the first helical profile of the helical profiles differs from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of the profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth, (c) To engage the connection portion of the new filter cartridge with the connection segment on the filter head, the new filter cartridge is pushed axially and rotated by less than 90° to mount the new filter cartridge onto the head, (d) Compressing the sealing member on the new filter cartridge in order to form a seal between the head and the new filter cartridge while rotating it. Methods that include...

73. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 72, wherein the step of attaching the new filter cartridge to the head includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stop member engages to prevent further rotation.

74. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 73, wherein the rotating step includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a click is detected by a person performing the method.

75. The method according to claim 74, wherein the click is an audible click sound, a tactile click sensation, or both.

76. The method according to claim 74 or 75, wherein the step of rotating until a click is detected includes rotating until the stopper on the new filter cartridge is received in the stopper recess of the head.

77. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 76, wherein the mounting step includes aligning the outlet opening of the head with a grommet sealing member on the new filter cartridge.

78. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 77, wherein the rotating step includes rotating the new filter cartridge until a stop member engages between the new filter cartridge and the head.

79. The method according to any one of claims 70 to 78, wherein the step of providing a new filter cartridge includes providing the filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 61.

80. (a) A filter cartridge having a media structure, (b) A bowl having an outer radial wall and an internal volume, wherein the filter cartridge can be removably installed in the internal volume, and the outer radial wall has a plurality of connecting portions that alternate with non-connecting portions, (i) Each connection has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and within each connection, the first helical profile of the helical profiles differs from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of the profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth. bowl and A bowl cartridge assembly comprising:

81. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 80, wherein the non-connecting portion is smooth.

82. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 80 or 81, wherein the media structure includes a pleated medium arranged in a tubular shape having an open internal volume.

83. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 82, wherein each of the non-connecting portions is equally spaced from one another.

84. A bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 83, wherein each connection part is identical to the other connection parts.

85. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 84, wherein each connection portion has at least four helical profiles.

86. A bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 85, wherein at least three connection points are present.

87. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 86, further comprising a radially projecting stop member extending from the outer radial wall at the end of at least one of the helical profiles of the connection portion.

88. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 87, wherein the filter cartridge includes a first end structure having an axial wall covering the media structure.

89. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 88, further comprising at least one spring biasing deactivator extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

90. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 89, wherein there are a plurality of spring biasing return restraints extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

91. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 90, wherein each spring biasing deactivator includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure.

92. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 88 to 91, wherein the first end structure is part of a first end cap, and the first end cap is fixed to the first end of the media structure.

93. The bowl cartridge assembly according to claim 92, further comprising a second end cap fixed to the second end of the media structure.

94. The bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 93, wherein a portion of the outer radial wall is radially spaced to define a plurality of circumferentially spaced gaps that define a fluid flow path.

95. (a) A bowl cartridge assembly according to any one of claims 80 to 94, (b) A filter head that is removably attached to the filter cartridge and forms a seal between the bowl cartridge assembly and the filter head and a sealing member A filtration assembly comprising:

96. A filter cartridge for use in a bowl cartridge assembly, (a) A processing medium structure having a first end and a second end on the opposite side, (b) A first end structure adjacent to the first end of the media structure, wherein the first end structure includes an outer radial wall and an axial wall, and the axial wall covers the first end of the media structure, (c) A first plurality of circumferentially spaced radial projections extending from the outer radial wall, (i) The first plurality of radial projections have a first longitudinal length having an end portion sized to engage with the rim of the filter bowl when the cartridge is inserted into the filter bowl, (ii) The first plurality of radial projections each have a minimum of one lateral portion oriented to contact a portion of the filter bowl circumferentially when the cartridge is inserted into the filter bowl, A first set of multiple radially spaced projections in the circumferential direction, (d) A second plurality of circumferentially spaced radial projections extending from the outer radial wall, (i) The second plurality of radial projections have a second longitudinal length shorter than the first longitudinal length, (ii) The second set of radial projections are directed to assist in the precise rotational positioning of the cartridge within the filter bowl when the cartridge is inserted into the filter bowl, A second set of radially spaced projections in the circumferential direction, (e) at least one spring biasing return mechanism extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure and A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

97. The filter cartridge according to claim 96, wherein there are a plurality of spring biasing return stops extending axially outward from the axial wall of the first end structure.

98. The filter cartridge according to claim 96 or 97, wherein each spring biasing return stop includes a leaf spring attached to the axial wall of the first end structure.

99. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 96 to 98, wherein the first end structure is part of a first end cap, and the first end cap is fixed to the first end of the media structure.

100. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 96 to 99, further comprising a second end cap fixed to the second end of the media structure.

101. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 96 to 100, wherein the processing medium structure includes a pleated medium arranged in a tubular shape having an open internal volume.

102. (a) A filter cartridge according to any one of claims 96 to 101, (b) A bowl having an outer radial wall and an internal volume, wherein the filter cartridge can be removably installed in the internal volume, and the outer radial wall has a plurality of connecting portions that alternate with non-connecting portions, (i) Each connection has a plurality of helical profiles extending at a twist angle, and within each connection, the first helical profile of the helical profiles differs from at least one other helical profile based on one or more of the profile shape, axial spacing, or axial depth. bowl and A bowl cartridge assembly comprising:

103. The filter cartridge according to claim 1, 32, 34, or 96, wherein the axial wall is integrated with the outer radial wall.

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