Filtering device for gaseous media, filter elements, use of filter elements, and method of assembling the filter device.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a filter device for a gaseous medium, the device comprising a filter housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening. A filter element (16) is disposed within the filter housing. The filter housing comprises a first housing component in which the filter element (16) is disposed, and a second housing component having one inlet opening and a cyclone separator. The second housing component removably closes a service opening within the first housing component. The first housing component has a radially projecting collar that extends at least partially around a virtual axis (22), the collar providing an axial support surface, on which a circumferential support portion (120) of the filter element (16) is supported, the support portion projecting radially beyond the filter media body (90) with respect to the axis (22). On the axial support surface of the collar, there is a corresponding notch (250) of the support portion (120) of the filter element (16). E ,250 F At least one protrusion is provided that engages with the first housing component, thereby providing a unique installation position for the filter element (16) within the first housing component.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This patent application claims priority to German Patent Application No. 102023107293.5, filed with the German Patent and Trademark Office on 23 March 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a filter device for a gaseous medium, particularly air, the filter device comprising a filter housing having at least one inlet opening for the gaseous medium to be purified and at least one outlet opening for the purified gaseous medium, Within the filter housing, at least one filter element, including at least one filter media body, is arranged between at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening, such that the untreated side associated with at least one inlet opening is separated from the clean side associated with at least one outlet opening. The filter housing includes a first housing component in which an outlet opening is located, and the first housing component includes at least one filter element housing space in which at least one filter element is located. The filter housing includes a second housing component in which at least one inlet opening is located, and the second housing component includes at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator. The second housing component closes the service opening of the first housing component, and the first housing component and the second housing component are detachably connected to each other and separable from each other so that at least one filter element can be removed through the service opening of the first housing component. The first housing component comprises a radially projecting collar that extends at least partially circumferentially around a virtual axis, the collar providing at least one axial contact surface with respect to the axis, and at this axial contact surface supporting at least one support portion of the filter element that projects radially with respect to the axis beyond the filter medium body and extends at least partially circumferentially around the axis. At least one axial contact surface of a radially projecting collar of the first housing component is provided with at least one protrusion that engages with at least one corresponding notch of at least one support portion of at least one filter element.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a filter element for a filter device for a gaseous medium, particularly air, particularly for an air filter device, and more particularly for a filter device according to the present invention, the filter element comprising at least one filter body, The filter device comprises a filter housing having at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening, The filter element is housed within a filter housing between at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening in order to separate the untreated side associated with at least one inlet opening from the clean side associated with at least one outlet opening. The filter housing includes a first housing component in which an outlet opening is located, and the first housing component includes a filter element housing space in which a filter element can be arranged. The filter housing includes a second housing component in which at least one inlet opening is located, and the second housing component includes at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator. The first and second housing components are detachably connected to and separable from each other so that the filter element can be removed through the service opening of the first housing component, and the service opening can be closed by the second housing component. The first housing component comprises a radially projecting collar that extends at least partially circumferentially around a virtual axis, the collar providing at least one axial contact surface with respect to the axis, and at this axial contact surface, capable of supporting at least one support portion of the filter element that projects radially with respect to the axis beyond the filter medium body and extends at least partially circumferentially around the axis. At least one support portion of the filter element has at least one notch into which at least one corresponding protrusion present on the axial contact surface of a collar projecting radially from the first housing component can engage.

[0004] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of a filter element comprising at least one filter media body in a filter device according to the present invention, in particular in an air filter device, a filter element for a gaseous medium, in particular an air filter element, wherein the filter element comprises at least one support portion projecting radially beyond the filter media body with respect to a virtual axis and extending at least partially circumferentially around the axis, the support portion being supported on at least one axial contact surface with respect to the axis of a radially projecting collar of a first housing component that extends at least partially circumferentially around the axis, and the at least one support portion of the filter element having at least one notch into which at least one corresponding protrusion present on the at least one axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar of the first housing component engages.

[0005] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a filter device for a gaseous medium, and more particularly to a method for assembling a filter device according to the present invention, wherein at least one filter element comprising at least one filter media body is inserted through a service opening into a filter element housing space of a first housing component of the filter device's filter housing, which has at least one outlet opening for the purified gaseous medium. The first housing component comprises a radially projecting collar that extends at least partially circumferentially around a virtual housing axis and provides at least one contact surface with respect to the housing axis, on which at least one protrusion is disposed, and at least one filter element comprises at least one support portion that projects radially beyond at least one filter media body with respect to the filter element axis and extends at least partially circumferentially around the filter element axis and has at least one notch, When introducing at least one filter element from a service opening, the housing axis and the filter element axis are arranged parallel to each other, and the at least one filter element is aligned with respect to a rotational direction with respect to at least one of the axes which are the housing axis and the filter element axis, such that at least one protrusion on at least one axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar of the first housing component engages with at least one corresponding notch on the support portion of the filter element, and at least one circumferentially extending support portion of the filter element is supported by at least one axial contact surface of the projecting collar of the first housing component. Subsequently, the service opening is closed by a second housing component of the filter housing, which includes at least one inlet opening for the gaseous medium to be purified and at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator. [Background technology]

[0006] International Publication No. 2021 / 005509 discloses an air filter for an internal combustion engine, the air filter comprising a housing having a removable cover, the housing having a chamber inside which a replaceable main filter element is housed, and a seal positioned between the housing and the cover. The seal comprises at least one centering seat or centering projection for receiving a corresponding centering projection or centering seat provided on the cover or housing when the main filter element is positioned within the housing and the housing is closed by the cover. The seal comprises a plurality of centering seats, each designed to receive a corresponding axial centering projection provided on the housing when the main filter element is positioned within the housing and the housing is closed by the cover. The centering projections and centering seats of the filter element and filter housing, corresponding to each other, are arranged rotationally symmetrically, resulting in at least two possible mounting positions for the filter element. This has the disadvantage that after removing and reinstalling the same filter element with a change of rotational orientation within the housing, leakage may occur due to the settling effect of the seal.

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a filter device, filter elements, use of filter elements, and a method for assembling a filter device, with respect to functionality, mounting, and / or assembly, in particular to reduce the risk of incorrect assembly, especially the risk of incorrect installation of at least one filter element or incorrect installation of filter elements. [Overview of the project]

[0008] The objective is solved, according to the present invention, by configuring the arrangement of at least one protrusion on at least one axial contact surface of a radially projecting collar of the first housing component and at least one corresponding notch of at least one support portion of at least one filter element so as to provide a unique installation position for at least one filter element within the first housing component.

[0009] According to the present invention, the first housing component has at least one protrusion which engages with a corresponding notch of the filter element when the filter element is properly mounted. The at least one protrusion and the at least one corresponding notch are positioned to correspond to only one unique mounting position of the filter element within the housing component, particularly in rotational orientation with respect to the longitudinal axis. The interaction between the at least one protrusion and the corresponding notch prevents at least one filter element from being mounted in a different mounting position. Furthermore, it prevents the mounting of a filter element that does not have a required notch. Overall, this reduces the risk of mismounting relating to the incorrect mounting of at least one filter element, and to the incorrect, i.e., inappropriate mounting of filter elements.

[0010] "Axial contact surface" means that the relative degrees of freedom of motion in the axial direction can be blocked by the contact of the support portion extending in the circumferential direction of the filter element.

[0011] Advantageously, at least one axial contact surface extends in both the circumferential and radial directions. This allows for limiting the axial degrees of freedom of the circumferentially extending support.

[0012] At least one protrusion is a structure that projects axially from at least one axial contact surface. At least one notch is a recess in at least one support portion of the filter element.

[0013] The filter device and filter element can be used in connection with internal combustion engines, particularly in vehicles, specifically automobiles, construction machinery and / or agricultural machinery, and compressors, and in connection with fuel cells, particularly in cathode filters.

[0014] The gaseous medium to be purified may be air. In this case, the filter device is also called an air filter device. The filter device can remove liquid or solid particles, such as dust particles, from the gaseous medium.

[0015] The axis may coincide with the housing axis of the filter housing, the axis for installing / removing at least one filter element from the first housing component, the axis connecting the first housing component and the second housing component, and / or the element axis of at least one filter element. Wherever “radial,” “coaxial,” “axial,” “tangential,” “circumferential,” “concentric,” “eccentric,” or similar terms are used herein, unless otherwise specified, this refers to an axis. “Circumferential” in this context refers to a virtual wall surrounding the axis. The axis may be a longitudinal axis in particular.

[0016] Advantageously, at least one cyclone separator, and in particular a cyclone block having multiple cyclone separators, is equipped with at least one particle discharge device, in particular a dust discharge device. This allows particles separated from the gaseous medium to be purified by at least one cyclone separator to be removed from the cyclone separator, in particular the cyclone block.

[0017] Advantageously, at least one cyclone separator is an axial flow cyclone.

[0018] Advantageously, the filter device includes at least one cyclone block with multiple cyclone separators. This allows for the purification of larger gas flows and optimizes the use of available installation space.

[0019] Advantageously, at least one inlet opening and at least one outlet opening are positioned on opposite sides of the filter housing with respect to the axis. This allows the entire filter device to have an axial configuration.

[0020] Advantageously, at least one filter media body comprises at least one filter bellows, in particular at least one single bellows and / or at least one double bellows. The filter bellows can improve the ratio of effective filter surface area to required installation space in a manner that is advantageous to the filter surface area.

[0021] Advantageously, the filter media itself includes a filter material suitable for filtering gaseous media, particularly air, such as filter paper, filter nonwoven fabric, or filter foam. This allows the gas to be purified to be purified as it passes through the filter media.

[0022] Advantageously, the filter media of at least one filter body can be folded or rolled. This increases the effective filter surface area. The filter elements can be designed accordingly as folded filter elements or rolled elements.

[0023] Advantageously, at least one filter element is a compact filter element, a hollow filter element, a flat filter element, etc.

[0024] Advantageously, the filter media body includes filter media having deep folds, particularly those folded in a zigzag shape. In the case of a filter media body that is roughly rectangular or prismatic in shape, the folds are called deep if the fold height is at least approximately equal to the length in the direction of the fold edge and / or the length in the direction intersecting the fold edge.

[0025] The hollow filter element is characterized by having at least one element inside which is surrounded by a filter material.

[0026] The hollow filter element may be, advantageously, a so-called circular filter element having a circular cross-section, an elliptical filter element having an elliptical cross-section, a flattened elliptical filter element having a flattened elliptical cross-section, a conical filter element in which the circular cross-section tapers axially with respect to the principal axis, a cono-elliptical filter element in which the elliptical cross-section tapers axially in the direction of at least one transverse axis, a cono-flattened elliptical filter element in which the flattened elliptical cross-section tapers axially in the direction of at least one transverse axis, or a hollow filter element having a different type of cross-section, in particular a rectangular cross-section, and / or a different type of axial cross-sectional shape in the direction of the element axis.

[0027] The untreated side is the side where the gaseous medium to be purified is located during the operation of the filter device. The cleaned side is the side where the purified gaseous medium is located.

[0028] The first housing component comprises a radially projecting collar that is at least partially circumferentially extending, providing at least one axial contact surface, on which at least one radially projecting support portion of the filter element is supported. Thus, a circumferentially extending seal may be additionally supported in the first housing component axially with respect to its axis. Here, a further sealing region may be provided. In the further sealing region, at least one circumferentially extending seal may act to seal axially.

[0029] Advantageously, the radially projecting collar of the first housing component may extend continuously and uninterrupted, particularly in the circumferential direction, or it may be interrupted.

[0030] Advantageously, the protruding collar has at least two axial contact surfaces, particularly four axial contact surfaces, arranged at different axial heights. Alternatively or in addition to this, the collar may have at least two collar portions, particularly four collar portions, each having contact surfaces that partially extend circumferentially around an axis. This provides further protection against incorrect assembly of the filter device. In particular, this makes it even more certain that at least one filter element, the first housing component, and the second housing component will not be oriented incorrectly during assembly.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment, a plurality of protrusions are arranged on at least one axial contact surface of a collar projecting radially from the first housing component, and / or a plurality of corresponding notches are arranged on at least one support portion of the filter element. This allows for even more precise definition of the unique installation position. The plurality of protrusions and associated corresponding notches can also provide redundancy regarding the unique installation position.

[0032] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one axial contact surface of a collar projecting radially from the first housing component, having at least one protrusion, is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis, and / or at least one support portion of the filter element, having at least one notch, is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the axis. This allows the at least one protrusion and at least one corresponding notch to provide a unique mounting position for the at least one filter element within the first housing component. The unique mounting position is defined by a predetermined angular position or rotational direction around the axis.

[0033] In a further advantageous embodiment, the internal dimensions of at least one notch of at least one filter element are at least the same as the external dimensions of at least one protrusion of the first housing component corresponding to at least one notch, and / or the at least one notch of at least one filter element and the associated corresponding at least one protrusion of the first housing component are complementary. This allows at least one protrusion to engage with the associated corresponding at least one notch.

[0034] Advantageously, “corresponding” may mean that at least one notch in the circumferentially extending support portion of the filter element is essentially a negative of the corresponding at least one ridge on the axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar. In this case, the at least one notch and the associated corresponding at least one ridge are complementary.

[0035] Advantageously, clearance, particularly a predetermined clearance, remains between at least one protrusion and at least one corresponding notch. This reduces the mounting force, thus facilitating the installation and removal of at least one filter element. The clearance is provided, for example, at the level of the height of the protrusion or the depth of the corresponding notch with respect to the axis, circumferentially with respect to the axis, and / or in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction.

[0036] Advantageously, a gap fit is provided between at least one protrusion and at least one corresponding notch.

[0037] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least two protrusions are arranged on at least one axial contact surface of the first housing component, differing in circumferential extension, height, and / or radial extension in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction. Alternatively or in addition thereto, at least one support portion of at least one filter element may have at least two notches differing in circumferential extension, height, and / or radial extension in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction. Alternatively or in addition thereto, at least two protrusions differing in shape, dimension, and / or orientation may be arranged on at least one axial contact surface of the first housing component, and at least one support portion of at least one filter element may have at least two associated corresponding notches differing in shape, dimension, and / or orientation with respect to the protrusions. This can further improve protection against incorrect mounting.

[0038] Advantageously, at least one protrusion and at least one associated notch are designed to be mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane extending perpendicular to a virtual axis.

[0039] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter element comprises a seal extending circumferentially around a virtual axis on the inlet side facing a second housing component, the seal acting to seal at least partially radially with respect to the axis and including a sealing portion extending circumferentially around the axis, the circumferential side of the sealing portion which is radially outward with respect to the axis, in sealed contact with the inner wall surface of the first housing component which is radially inward with respect to the axis. In this regard, in particular, a rib projecting with respect to the axis with respect to the axis with at least one axial component in a direction away from the second housing component and extending at least partially circumferentially around the axis can apply contact pressure to the circumferential seal and act to seal at least partially radially, pressing the circumferentially extending sealing portion against the inner wall surface of the first housing component. This allows the seal to seal the filter element housing space to the environment. Furthermore, this allows the untreated side of the filter element to be separated from the clean side.

[0040] Advantageously, the second housing component includes circumferential ribs, which apply contact pressure to the circumferential seal when the filter device is assembled. This contact pressure presses a circumferentially extending seal portion, which acts to seal at least partially radially, against the inner wall surface of the first housing component.

[0041] When the first housing component is not clamped to the second housing component by a sealing portion that acts at least partially radially, the sealing surface of the seal on the side of at least one filter element may have a clearance, particularly a radial gap, with respect to the opposing surface of the filter housing, i.e., the inner wall surface of the first housing component. Only by clamping the second housing component to the first housing component is the circumferentially extending sealing portion pressed against the inner wall surface of the first housing component. This creates a sealing effect between the first housing component, the second housing component, and the filter element. The seal also allows for axial sealing of a cyclone block having at least one cyclone separator with respect to its axis.

[0042] Overall, the configuration of this filter device provides easy installation of the filter elements without any force influence within the filter housing. Clamping of the seal can be achieved by axial clamping between the first and second housing components. For this purpose, the lever action of a suitable cover element can be utilized.

[0043] The seal prevents particles and / or water from entering the clean side between at least one filter element and the filter housing. It also prevents particles and / or water from entering the area between at least one filter element and a second housing component, particularly the immersion plate and / or cyclone block.

[0044] Advantageously, the contact area of ​​the sealing portion, which acts to seal radially against the inner wall surface of the first housing component, is positioned at an axial distance from at least one axial contact surface of the collar. This allows for a region between the sealing portion and the inner wall surface of the first housing component in which at least one sealing portion does not contact the inner wall surface.

[0045] Advantageously, the second housing component is clamped to the first housing component by a clamping device. Advantageously, the clamping device provides a contact pressure acting at least axially between the first and second housing components.

[0046] Advantageously, the clamping device is retractable. This allows the first housing component to be separated from the second housing component.

[0047] Advantageously, the clamping device includes at least one clamping element, in particular at least one screw, at least one clamping hook and / or at least one snap hook, etc. This allows the clamping device to be easily clamped and released again.

[0048] Advantageously, the clamping device can directly engage with the second housing component, thereby allowing the second housing component to be directly clamped to the first housing component. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the clamping device can engage with the cyclone housing, with the first and second housing components positioned between them. This allows multiple housing components to be connected to each other.

[0049] Advantageously, the rib is positioned on the second housing component in a fixed position, particularly against pressure loads. This allows the rib to move together with the second housing component when assembling the first and second housing components axially with at least one filter element in between. This would not be possible if the second housing component were part of at least one filter element. In particular, the rib can be moved together with the second housing component during assembly by the clamping action of the clamping device.

[0050] In a further advantageous embodiment, the at least one filter element comprises at least one frame element that extends at least partially circumferentially and is connected to at least one filter media body, the surface of which is at least partially circumferentially extended and is at least partially exposed, and in particular, at least one exposed portion of the frame element at least partially forms at least one radially projecting support portion of the at least one filter element, which is supported by at least one axial contact surface of a radially projecting collar of the first housing component. This allows the at least one support portion of the at least one filter element to be stably connected to the filter media body, and enables a rigid shape-fitting contact of the filter element in the housing.

[0051] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter element comprises at least one circumferential seal defined by at least one circumferentially extending frame element at an axial end facing away from the second housing component. This allows at least one seal to be axially supported by at least one frame element.

[0052] Advantageously, at least one frame element is connected to the filter media body. This allows the filter media body to be supported by at least one frame element.

[0053] Advantageously, at least one frame element, particularly the surface of the frame element, is at least partially exposed. At least one support surface for at least one filter element may be provided on the exposed surface. The support surface enables a rigid shape-fitting contact of the filter element within the housing.

[0054] Advantageously, the frame element, particularly at least one exposed portion of the frame element, forms at least partially a radially projecting support portion of the filter element, which is supported by the axial contact surface of the collar projecting radially from the first housing component. This allows for better support of the circumferential seal on the side facing axially away from the second housing component.

[0055] Advantageously, at least one frame element includes or is composed of a plastic material. This allows for a robust yet lightweight frame element. In this case, the term “plastic frame” may also be used for the frame element. Alternatively or in addition to this, the frame element may advantageously include or be composed of at least one other material, in particular metal, carbon fiber, or composite material.

[0056] Advantageously, at least one frame element is part of the framework of the filter element and / or connected to the framework of at least one filter element. At least one filter media body may be held in place by the framework. The framework can stabilize at least one filter element and maintain its shape. At least part of the framework may include or be composed of plastic material, metal, carbon fiber, or composite material.

[0057] Advantageously, the framework, especially a framework having at least one frame element, is constructed as a single unit. This allows for a particularly stable framework.

[0058] In one embodiment, at least one frame element may be configured as a component separate from the framework.

[0059] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one notch is formed in the frame element of at least one filter element. Alternatively or in addition to this, at least one notch has a continuous boundary wall, and in particular, at least one notch may be designed as a closed pocket. This can improve force transmission between at least one ridge and the filter element.

[0060] The continuous boundary walls allow for the alignment of at least one protrusion within at least one notch with respect to the axis in the circumferential and radial directions. The boundary walls may enclose the opening of the notch for the associated corresponding protrusion.

[0061] A notch that surrounds an opening and has a boundary wall extending to the opposite side of the opening is also called a closed pocket.

[0062] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter element comprises at least one circumferential frame element, the at least one frame element extending at least partially axially and / or radially inward in the direction toward the inflow side, starting from at least one exposed portion. Alternatively or in addition to this, the at least one frame element may be at least partially surrounded by a circumferential seal material.

[0063] Advantageously, at least one frame element extends at least partially axially and / or radially inward in the direction of the inflow. This allows for the stabilization of at least one filter media body. Furthermore, this allows a portion of the frame element to function as a mold for the seal material.

[0064] Alternatively, or in addition to this, advantageously, at least one frame element may be surrounded, at least partially, by the circumferential sealing material. This can improve the support function for the seal.

[0065] In a further advantageous embodiment, ribs projecting away from the second housing component act to seal at least partially radially of at least one filter element, and can support a circumferentially extending seal portion on the radially inner circumferential surface of the seal portion, particularly on the radially inner circumferential surface of the seal portion that is radially opposite to the inner wall surface of the first housing component. This allows the ribs to press the seal portion against the inner wall surface of the first housing component, particularly directly.

[0066] Advantageously, the contact pressure applied by the ribs has at least one directional component with respect to the axis, from radially inward to radially outward. This allows the radial sealing force to directly press the corresponding sealing portion radially outward against the inner wall surface of the first housing component. Thus, the contact pressure applied by the ribs can directly provide a radial sealing force.

[0067] Alternatively, or in addition to this, the contact pressure applied by the ribs may have a directional component at least parallel to the axis. This allows at least one seal to be compressed axially. The seal material can be moved radially outward with respect to the compressive action and, therefore, act radially to press against the inner wall surface of the first housing component. Thus, the contact pressure applied by the ribs can indirectly generate a radial sealing force, particularly through lateral deformation of the seal.

[0068] Advantageously, at least the sealing portion of the circumferential seal is deformed when at least one filter element is mounted on the filter housing compared to at least one filter element that is not mounted. This allows the corresponding sealing portion to be flexibly pressed against the inner wall surface of the first housing component.

[0069] In a further advantageous embodiment, a rib projecting away from the second housing component contacts the axially surrounding seal of at least one filter element at the axially free rib edge facing the second housing component, by the axially acting component of the contact pressure. This allows the circumferential seal to be deformed by compression, particularly laterally. The deformed seal can then act to seal at least partially radially and press against the inner wall surface of the housing.

[0070] Advantageously, the rib can cause deformation of the circumferential seal by contacting it axially, particularly directly, at the inlet end face, thereby pressing a circumferentially extending seal portion, which acts partially radially, against the inner wall surface of the first housing component.

[0071] In a further advantageous embodiment, the second housing component comprises a protruding rib, and at least one filter element comprises a seal surrounding the axis, including at least one sealing portion, wherein the rib is configured to be at least partially inclined. Alternatively or in addition to this, the contact surface of the rib, facing the radially inner circumferential surface of the circumferentially extending sealing portion and acting to seal at least partially radially, is at an acute angle with respect to the axis. This allows the rib to slide along the radially inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion and continuously press it against the inner wall surface of the first housing component during axial assembly of the first and second housing components. The wedge action between the "angled" rib and the sealing portion allows for a high radially acting seal pretension with a manageable axial mounting force.

[0072] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter element comprises a seal surrounding the axis, including at least one sealing portion, which acts to seal at least partially radially, and the circumferentially extending sealing portion is at least partially offset radially outward with respect to the outer wall surface of the filter media body, which is radially outward with respect to the axis. Alternatively or in addition to this, the circumferentially extending sealing portion which acts to seal at least partially radially may at least partially protrude axially beyond the inlet side of the filter media body.

[0073] In a further advantageous embodiment, the filter device comprises a cyclone block having a plurality of cyclone separators, the cyclone block including an immersion plate having a plurality of immersion tubes as a second housing component of the filter housing, with circumferential ribs formed on the immersion plate. Alternatively or in addition thereto, at least one inlet opening may be located or formed on at least one component of at least one cyclone separator, particularly on the immersion tube of at least one cyclone separator. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the second housing component may include a portion of the cyclone block having a plurality of cyclone separators. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the second housing component may include an immersion plate having at least one immersion tube of a cyclone separator, or may be an immersion plate. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the second housing component may include a plurality of immersion tubes of the corresponding cyclone separators. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the second housing component may be located between the first housing component and the cyclone housing of the cyclone block to which at least one cyclone separator belongs. This allows the filter device to be designed in a compact configuration having at least one filter element and at least one cyclone block. The cyclone block, having multiple cyclone separators, enables efficient preliminary separation of particles from the gaseous medium to be purified, and reduces the installation size requirements for preliminary separation.

[0074] In a further advantageous embodiment, the second housing component comprises a projecting rib, and at least one filter element comprises a seal surrounding an axis, including at least one sealing portion, wherein the axial end of the circumferential seal on the inlet side protrudes beyond the free end of the rib of the second housing component when viewed axially with respect to the axis. Alternatively or in addition, the rib may protrude beyond the free end of the circumferential seal, in particular of at least one sealing portion, when viewed axially with respect to the axis. Alternatively or in addition, the rib may fit into a recess of the circumferential seal that opens on the side facing the inlet side axially with respect to the axis. Alternatively or in addition, the second housing component comprises at least one immersion tube of at least one cyclone separator, the immersion tube having an outlet end on the side facing the inlet side of at least one filter element, which is at least partially surrounded by an immersion tube edge, the immersion tube edge may be located radially inward of the sealing portion and at an axial distance from the free end of the circumferential seal when the filter device is assembled.

[0075] This allows for axial overlap between the seal and the second housing component, particularly the ribs and / or immersion tube.

[0076] Advantageously, the immersion tube edge is located radially inward of the seal portion and at an axial distance from the free end of the seal when the filter device is assembled. Advantageously, the outlet end is located axially beyond the axial free end on the inlet side of the circumferential seal. The immersion tube edge, which at least partially surrounds the outlet end, and thus the outlet end of at least one immersion tube, may extend axially behind the free end of the circumferential seal and thus behind the inlet end of at least one filter element.

[0077] In a further advantageous embodiment, the second housing component comprises protruding ribs, and at least one filter element comprises a seal surrounding an axis, including at least one sealing portion, the first and second housing components form a seal chamber, within which a sealing portion acts at least partially radially and extends circumferentially, the seal chamber being defined radially inward by the ribs of the second housing component, radially outward by the inner wall surface of the first housing component, and axially by a collar connected to the second housing component, particularly by a collar of a further component connected to the second housing component. This defines a space that can accommodate the sealing portion even after deformation.

[0078] Advantageously, the collar provides an axial sealing surface, on which the circumferential seal acts to seal in the axial direction. This provides a sealing effect outward, particularly to the environment.

[0079] Advantageously, the seal chamber is axially defined on the inlet side by a collar connected to a second housing component, and in particular by a collar of a further component connected to the second housing component.

[0080] In a further advantageous embodiment, the second housing component comprises protruding ribs, and at least one filter element comprises a seal surrounding an axis, including at least one sealing portion. In the state of the filter device, where at least one filter element is located within at least one filter element housing space and the second housing component is freed from the first housing component, a radial gap exists between the inner wall surface of the second housing component and the radially outer circumferential surface of the sealing portion that acts to seal at least partially radially and extends circumferentially. This allows at least one filter element to be moved axially into or out of the filter element housing space without the sealing portion that acts to seal radially and extends circumferentially rubbing against the inner wall surface of the second housing component, thereby minimizing mounting forces.

[0081] In a further advantageous embodiment, the first housing component, in particular the radially projecting collar, has a collar wall surrounding the axis, the collar wall projecting beyond the axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar on the side facing away from the filter element housing space in the axial direction.

[0082] Advantageously, the collar wall surrounds the axial contact surface and at least one protrusion of the collar projecting radially from the first housing component, radially outward.

[0083] Advantageously, the axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar of the first housing component, which has at least one protrusion, is offset axially with respect to the plane in which the service opening is located. This allows the axial contact surface and at least one protrusion to be protected from the environment by the corresponding portion of the radially projecting collar.

[0084] "Axial offset" can mean that, when viewed axially from the inflow side, the components are spaced apart in the axial direction.

[0085] Advantageously, an internal wall surface of the first housing component, to which at least a circumferentially extending sealing portion of the circumferential seal that acts radially can abut, is directly adjacent to the axial contact surface. This allows for a sealing effect to be obtained near the service opening.

[0086] Advantageously, the free edge on the inlet side of the collar wall is located axially adjacent to the service opening, and in particular coplanar, with respect to the inner wall surface of the first housing component, with respect to the shaft-enclosing seal portion that acts to seal at least partially radially around the shaft. This allows the service opening to be provided in the region of the free edge of the collar wall.

[0087] In a further advantageous embodiment, the filter media body has a cross-sectional shape having at least two curved sides connected by two particularly straight sides. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the filter media body may comprise a radially outer filter media portion and a radially inner filter media portion, each circumferentially continuous with respect to the axis, wherein the radially inner filter media portion is located inside the radially outer filter media portion. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the outer wall of the filter media body, particularly the outer wall of the radially outer filter media portion of the filter media body, may have an oval-elliptical cross-section. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the inner wall of the filter media body, particularly the inner wall of the radially inner filter media portion of the filter media body, may have an oval-elliptical cross-section. Alternatively or in addition thereto, the outer wall of the filter media body, particularly the outer wall of the radially outer filter media portion of the filter media body, may taper, particularly conically, when viewed axially from the inlet side. Alternatively, or in addition to this, the inner wall surface of the filter media body, particularly the inner wall surface of the radially inner portion of the filter media body, may be tapered, especially conically, when viewed axially from the outflow side. This makes it possible to obtain a filter element with an improved ratio of spatial requirements to filter surface area, which is advantageous for the filter surface area.

[0088] Advantageously, at least one filter element is implemented as a filter bellows. In the case of a filter bellows, the filter element can be folded. This allows for an increase in the effective filter surface area.

[0089] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter element portion of the filter body, particularly the radially outer filter element portion of the filter body, is circulating from the radially inner to the radially outer portion. Alternatively or in addition to this, at least one filter element portion of the filter body, particularly the radially inner filter element portion of the filter body, may be circulating from the radially outer to the radially inner portion. This can improve the ratio between the axial length and radial length of the filter element.

[0090] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one filter media body comprises at least two filter bellows, in particular an inner filter bellows and an outer filter bellows, in particular at least two folded filter bellows, which at least partially surround the axis and are circulating in parallel with the gaseous medium to be purified. Alternatively or in addition to this, the inner filter bellows of at least one filter media body may be located inside the enclosure of the outer filter bellows of at least one filter media body. Alternatively or in addition to this, at least one filter media body comprises at least one filter bellows, in particular an inner filter bellows and / or an outer filter bellows, which may be inclined with respect to the axis. The use of multiple filter bellows and their particular arrangement relative to each other can improve the ratio of spatial requirements to the circulating effective filter surface area, in an overall favorable manner to the filter surface area.

[0091] "Parallel flow" means that the filter bellows are arranged to act in parallel, particularly with respect to the flow of the gaseous medium. This does not mean that the filter bellows are arranged parallel in a geometric sense. The filter bellows are operated by the gaseous medium being purified in parallel. In contrast, in a series arrangement of filter bellows, they flow sequentially, i.e., in series.

[0092] Advantageously, the filter device comprises at least one further filter element, in particular a secondary filter element, which is located fluidly downstream of at least one filter element, in particular the above filter element, in particular the main filter element, and includes at least one support. This further improves the separation of particles from the gaseous medium to be purified and, instead or in addition to this, prevents contaminants from entering the clean side during maintenance of the main filter element.

[0093] Advantageously, at least one additional filter element, particularly a secondary filter element, is spatially positioned within the filter element housing space between a filter element having at least one support and at least one outlet opening of the filter housing. This allows the filter device to be constructed in a more compact configuration.

[0094] Furthermore, this objective is solved, according to the present invention, by configuring the arrangement of at least one notch in at least one circumferentially extending support portion of the filter element such that, in a mounting state in which at least one corresponding protrusion on at least one axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar of the first housing component engages, a unique installation position for the filter element within the first housing component.

[0095] According to the present invention, a filter element is realized that, in combination with at least one corresponding protrusion on the first housing component side, is provided with at least one specifically positioned notch, enabling unique installation within the first housing component. This makes it possible to recognize, at the latest during the assembly of the filter device, whether the correct filter element having the required at least one notch is being used. Furthermore, the filter element must be oriented so that at least one notch corresponds to the corresponding protrusion on the first housing component side. Overall, this significantly reduces the risk of incorrect installation.

[0096] Furthermore, this objective is solved, in relation to the above use, by configuring the arrangement of at least one protrusion on at least one axial contact surface of the radially projecting collar of the first housing component and at least one corresponding notch of at least one support of at least one filter element to result in a unique installation position for at least one filter element within the first housing component.

[0097] Furthermore, this objective is solved, according to the present invention, with respect to the above method, by arranging at least one filter element in a unique installation position within the first housing component by arranging at least one ridge on at least one axial contact surface of a collar projecting radially from the first housing component and at least one corresponding notch on at least one support portion of at least one filter element.

[0098] According to the present invention, at least one filter element is introduced into the filter housing in a simple and unambiguous manner.

[0099] Advantageously, the placement of the filter element within the filter element housing space of the first housing component, and the attachment of the second housing component to the first housing component, are performed axially with respect to at least one of the axes which are the housing axis and the filter element axis.

[0100] Advantageously, clamping of the circumferential seal is achieved by clamping means that engage between the first housing component and the second housing component.

[0101] In other words, the features and advantages disclosed in connection with the filter apparatus, filter elements, uses, and methods of the present invention, as well as their respective advantageous embodiments, are applicable to each other and inversely. Individual features and advantages can, of course, be combined with each other, thereby potentially producing further advantageous effects exceeding the sum of their individual effects.

[0102] Further advantages, features, and details of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, in which embodiments of the invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. Those skilled in the art will find it appropriate to consider the features disclosed in combination in the drawings, specification, and claims individually and combine them into more meaningful combinations. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0103] [Figure 1]This is an isometric view of a filter device for a gaseous medium according to the first embodiment, which includes a cyclone block, as seen from the outlet socket side. [Figure 2] This is a longitudinal cross-sectional view passing through the filter device shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] These are detailed diagrams of the main filter elements of the filter apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 2, in the region of the circumferential seal. [Figure 4] Figures 1 and 2 show detailed longitudinal cross-sections of the housing pot of the filter device in the colored region of the housing pot surrounding the service opening. [Figure 5] Figures 1 and 2 are isometric views of the main filter element framework of the filter device, as seen from the inflow side of the main filter element. [Figure 6] Figures 1 and 2 are detailed cross-sectional views of the immersion tube plate of the cyclone block of the filter device. [Figure 7] This is a detailed view of the vertical cross-section of the filter device shown in Figure 2, at the connection area between the housing pot and the cyclone block. [Figure 8] This is an isometric view of the housing pot of a filter device for a gaseous medium according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] This is an axial view of the housing pot in Figure 8, as seen from the direction of the service opening. [Figure 10] Figures 8 and 9 show isometric views of the main filter element to be installed in the housing pot of the filter device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This is an axial view of the main filter element in Figure 10, as seen from the outflow side. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0104] In the diagram, identical components are indicated by the same reference symbol.

[0105] In Figures 1 to 6, a filter device 10 and its components according to a first embodiment for a gaseous medium are shown in different diagrams. The filter device 10 can remove solid particles, such as dust, from a gaseous medium, such as air.

[0106] The filter device 10 can be used in relation to internal combustion engines, such as in vehicles, such as automobiles, construction machinery and / or agricultural machinery, and in compressors, and in relation to fuel cells, such as in cathode filters.

[0107] The filter device 10 comprises, for example, a housing pot 12, a post-filter element 14, a main filter element 16, an immersion plate 18, and a cyclone housing 20, as shown in the exploded view of Figure 2. The entire filter device 10 is constructed axially with respect to the axis 22.

[0108] The components of the filter device 10 and their relative positions with respect to the virtual axis 22 are described below. The axis 22 may coincide with the housing axis of the housing pot 12, the installation / removal axis of the post-filter element 14 and the main filter element 16 into or out of the housing pot 12, the connection axis between the immersion plate 18 and the housing pot 12, the connection axis between the cyclone housing 20 and the immersion plate 18, the connection axis between the cyclone housing 20 and the housing pot 12, the element axis of the post-filter element 14, the element axis of the main filter element 16, the housing axis of the housing pot 12, the plate axis of the immersion plate 18, and / or the housing axis of the cyclone housing 20. Whenever the terms “radial,” “coaxial,” “axial,” “tangential,” “circumferential,” “concentric,” “eccentric,” or similar descriptions are used herein, unless otherwise specified, this refers to the axis 22. “Circumferential” in this context refers to the contour of each virtual wall surface surrounding the axis 22.

[0109] In the connected state, the immersion plate 18 and the cyclone housing 20 form a cyclone block 24. On the other hand, the housing pot 12 as a first housing component and the immersion plate 18 as a second housing component form a filter housing 26 in the connected state. When the filter device 10 is assembled, the immersion plate 18 is connected to the cyclone housing 20, for example, by screws.

[0110] The following provides a more detailed explanation of Housing Pot 12.

[0111] The housing pot 12 is constructed as a single unit. The housing pot 12 is made of, for example, a plastic material, for example, a rigid plastic material.

[0112] The housing pot 12 has a housing wall 30 that continuously surrounds the shaft 22. At the axial end face of the housing pot 12, the housing bottom 32 is adjacent to the housing wall 30. On the side facing away from the housing bottom 32 in the axial direction, the housing wall 30 surrounds the service opening 34.

[0113] The housing wall 30 and the housing bottom 32 define the filter element housing space 36 of the housing pot 12. When the filter device 10 is assembled, the rear filter element 14 and the main filter element 16 are placed within the filter element housing space 36. In this regard, the rear filter element 14 and the main filter element 16 can be inserted into and removed from the filter element housing space 36 through the service opening 34.

[0114] The outlet socket 38 is integrated with the housing bottom 32. The outlet socket 38 has an outlet opening 40 for the purified gaseous medium. The outlet socket 38 extends axially with respect to the shaft 22, for example. For example, the outlet socket 38 has at least a partially cylindrical shape.

[0115] In the region axially adjacent to the housing bottom 32, on the side facing the service opening 34 in the axial direction, the housing wall 30 is stepped twice radially outward. Thus, as a whole, the housing pot 12 tapers axially toward the housing bottom 32. The stepped region forms a housing area for the rear filter element 14. The area of ​​the filter element housing space 36 located between the stepped region and the service opening 34 serves to house the main filter element 16.

[0116] When viewed perpendicular to axis 22, the housing wall 30 has an oval-shaped cross-section.

[0117] On the axial side having a service opening 34, the housing wall 30 includes a collar 42 that continuously surrounds the shaft 22.

[0118] Viewed in the axial direction, the collar 42 has an oval-elliptical cross-section. However, the oval-elliptical cross-section of the collar 42 is different from the oval-elliptical cross-section of the housing wall 30 between the collar 42 and the housing bottom 32. The housing wall 30 is symmetrical with respect to a 180° rotation around axis 22 in the region between the housing bottom 32 and the collar 42. In contrast, the collar wall 44 does not have rotational symmetry with respect to axis 22. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0119] The collar wall 44 is offset radially outward from the main wall portion 46 of the housing wall 30. The main wall portion 46 extends axially between the collar 42 and the housing bottom portion 32.

[0120] The colored wall 48 extends between the main wall section 46 and the colored wall 44.

[0121] The collar 48 has a plurality of contact surfaces 50 on its axially inward side facing the filter element housing space 36. The contact surfaces 50 are arranged circumferentially along the collar 48 in each collar portion of the collar 42. To facilitate distinction, the reference numerals of the contact surfaces 50 below will be denoted by subscripts A, B, C, or D, i.e., 50A , 50 B , 50 C or 50 D is set to, but the contact surface 50 B is not shown.

[0122] The inclined surface 52 is arranged between the contact surface 50 A and the contact surface 50 D . Another inclined surface 52 is arranged between the contact surface 50 C and the contact surface 50 D . The two inclined surfaces 52 are arranged on the radially opposite sides of each other.

[0123] The contact surface 50 extends in the circumferential direction and perpendicular to the axis 22. The inclined surface 52 extends in the circumferential direction and is inclined axially toward the axis 22 as viewed from the service opening 34 with respect to the axis 22.

[0124] The inclined surface 52 of the collar 42 extends along the long side 54 of the filter device 10 which is an ellipse as a whole in the axial view. The short sides 56 extend between the respective long sides 54.

[0125] Hereinafter, for the sake of clarity, the names of the long side 54 and the short side 56 are used for the components of the filter device 10 having an elliptical cross-section of an ellipse.

[0126] The flat curved portion 58 extends to one of the short sides 56 of the collar wall 44. The circular curved portion 60 of the collar wall 44 extends to the short side 56 on the opposite side across the axis 22. The flat curved portion 58 has a larger radius of curvature than the circular curved portion 60. Between the flat curved portion 58 and the circular curved portion 60, the linear connection portion 62 of the collar wall 44 extends along the long side 54 respectively.

[0127] In the region of the flat curved portion 58, three contact surfaces 50 A , 50 B , 50 C are provided. The fourth contact surface 50 D is arranged on the circular curved portion 60 side. The two side contact surfaces 50 Aand 50 C The flat curved portion 50 of each linear connection portion 62 B From the transition section to the third contact surface 50 B Each extends to the third contact surface 50 B is the lateral contact surface 50 A , 50 C It extends between these points.

[0128] Central contact surface 50 on the flat curved portion 58 side B and the contact surface 50 on the circular curved portion 60 side D These are arranged at the same axial height. Contact surface 50 on the flat curved portion 58 side A , 50 B , 50 C These are arranged at different axial heights, as can be seen in Figure 4, for example. Central contact surface 50 B and contact surface 50 D When viewed in the axial direction, the two outer contact surfaces 50 A and 50 C It is positioned closer to the free edge of the colored wall 44. Contact surface 50 D and contact surface 50 C The axial distance 64 between the contact surface 50 D and contact surface 50 A The axial distance between them is less than 66.

[0129] Contact surface 50 D On the side of the circular curved portion 60, at the center of the circular curved portion 60, it extends circumferentially over an inscribed angle of approximately 90° around the center of the circular curved portion 60 (not shown).

[0130] Contact surface 50 D A recess 68 exists between each of the adjacent inclined surfaces 52. The recesses 68 extend axially, radially, and along the collar wall 44, respectively. The inclined surfaces 52 extend along the collar wall 44 all the way from each linear connection 62 to each circular curved section 60.

[0131] First raised section 248 A However, the first outer axial contact surface 50 of the flat curved contact portion 58 of the collar 42 that protrudes radially from the housing pot 12A It is positioned on top. Second raised portion 248 C However, the axial contact surface 50 of the flat curved contact portion 58 C It is positioned on top. Raised portion 248 A ,248 C Each of these structures protrudes in a direction that is axially separated from the corresponding contact surface 50.

[0132] First outer axial contact surface 50 of housing pot 12 A Upper first raised portion 248 A and the second outer axial contact surface 50 C Upper second raised portion 248 C These differ in shape, dimensions, and / or orientation. First outer axial contact surface 50 A Upper first raised portion 248 A and the second outer axial contact surface 50 C Upper second raised portion 248 C This means that the circumferential extension length and / or radial width are different. The axial contact surface 50 of the collar 42 projecting radially from the housing pot 12 having the raised portion 248 does not exhibit rotational symmetry with respect to the axis 22.

[0133] In the main wall portion 46 of the housing wall 30, a plurality of grooves 70 extend substantially axially from the collar 48 to a point just before the stepped region of the housing wall 30. The grooves 70 are arranged circumferentially along the main wall portion 46. Each groove 70 is provided as a radially outward bulge in the main wall portion 46. Each groove 70 forms an oval recess radially inward of the main wall portion 46. In addition, each groove 70 forms an oval convex portion radially outward of the main wall portion 46. Depending on the circumferential position, the grooves 70 open toward the contact surface 50 or toward the inclined surface 52. Viewed axially, the cross-section of each groove 70 tapers toward the housing bottom portion 32.

[0134] Furthermore, a total of eight fastening blocks 72 are arranged radially outward from the main wall portion 46. Of these, four fastening blocks 72 are positioned on the side of the main wall portion 46 facing the collar 42 axially. The other four fastening blocks 72 are positioned on the side facing the stepped region adjacent to the housing bottom portion 32 axially. In each fastening block 72, a screw collar 74 is positioned on the side facing the corresponding long side 54. The screw collar 74 is provided, for example, as a flat region. The screw collars 74 on the common long side 54 extend within a single plane. Each screw collar 74 may have a screw hole. The axes of the screw holes in the screw collars 74 may extend parallel to each other. The screw collars 74 allow the filter device 10 to be fastened to the corresponding retaining element. The retaining element is fixedly connected, for example, to the machine in which the filter device 10 is used.

[0135] Furthermore, a total of four clamp noses 76 are positioned outside the collar 48, facing axially away from the collar wall 44. The clamp noses 76 project axially away from the collar wall 44 along the axial extension of the collar wall 44. Two of the clamp noses 76 are positioned in the region of the flat curved section 58, near the transition of the flat curved section 58 to each of the adjacent linear connection sections 62. The other two clamp noses 76 are positioned in the region of the circular curved section 60, near the transition of the respective adjacent linear connection sections 62. Viewed axially, each clamp nose 76 may align with an axially adjacent fastening block 72. The clamp noses 76 function to engage with their respective clamp clips 78. The clamp clips 78 are supported by the cyclone housing 20, as will be described in more detail below.

[0136] Between the collar 48 and the free edge of the collar wall 44, the collar wall 44 has an internal wall surface 86 extending circumferentially on its radially inner circumferential surface. On the side of the collar wall 44 facing the free edge axially, the internal wall surface 86 has an inclined portion 80. In the inclined portion 80, the internal wall surface 86 extends inclined with respect to the axis 22. The radially inner circumferential length of the collar wall 44 increases axially toward the free edge in the inclined portion 80. Thus, the inclined portion 80 forms a funnel-shaped insertion aid for the post-filter element 14 and the main filter element 16. In the axial direction between the inclined portion 80 and the collar 48, the internal wall surface 86 extends parallel to the axis 22.

[0137] Two more nipples 84 are positioned on the outside of the housing bottom 32, which faces axially away from the filter element housing space 36. Each nipple extends parallel to the axis 22. Each nipple 84 is positioned adjacent to the short side 56 of the housing pot 12, on opposite sides radially across the axis 22.

[0138] The post-filter element 14 is designed, for example, as a so-called flat filter element. The post-filter element 14 functions as a secondary filter element. Viewed in the direction of axis 22, the radially outer surface of the post-filter element 14 has an oval-ellipse shape. The shape of the radially outer wall surface of the post-filter element 14 corresponds to the oval-ellipse shape of the radially inner circumferential surface of the housing pot 12 in the two stepped region adjacent to the housing bottom 32. The post-filter element 14 has a seal 88 on one of its axial end faces that extends circumferentially with respect to axis 22. The seal 88 separates the clean side of the post-filter element 14 from the untreated side when installed.

[0139] The main filter element 16 will be explained in more detail below.

[0140] The main filter element 16 comprises a filter media body 90, a frame 92, an end member 94, and a seal 96.

[0141] The frame 92 is shown in detail in Figure 5. The frame 92 is constructed as a single unit. For example, the frame 92 is manufactured as an injection-molded part of a rigid plastic material.

[0142] The framework 92 comprises a central element 98 and a frame element 100.

[0143] The central element 98 functions as a support element and supports the filter bellows 134 and 136, which are described in more detail below. The central element 98 comprises a number of axial stays 102. Each axial stay 102 extends substantially parallel to the axis 22. The axial stays 102 are distributed around the axis 22. On the axial side of the frame 92, the ends of the axial stays 102 located thereon are connected to each other by connecting rings 104.

[0144] Viewed axially, the axial stays 102 have a substantially rectangular cross-section. The long sides of the rectangular cross-section of each axial stay 102 are aligned parallel to the radial direction with respect to the axis 22. The circumferential dimensions of the axial stays 102 with respect to the axis 22, i.e., the extended length of the short sides of the rectangular cross-section of the axial stays 102, are constant over their axial lengths. The radial dimensions of the axial stays 102 with respect to the axis 22, i.e., the extended length of the long sides of the rectangular cross-section of the axial stays 102, increase axially from the end facing the connecting ring 104. Overall, the axial stays 102 are designed to be substantially wedge-shaped when viewed circumferentially with respect to the axis 22.

[0145] The radially outer side of the axial stay 102 with respect to the axis 22 is inclined toward the axis 22 when viewed from the frame element 100 toward the connecting ring 104. Thus, the virtual radially outer wall surface surrounding the central element 98 and defined by the radially outer side of the axial stay 102 has a conical shape that tapers toward the connecting ring 104. The virtual radially inner wall surface defined by the axial stay 102 has a shape that tapers toward the frame 100 when viewed in the axial direction toward the connecting ring 104.

[0146] The connecting ring 104 has an oval-shaped elliptical cross-section when viewed in the axial direction. The connecting ring 104 comprises two parallel, coaxial ring sections of the same circumference, connected to each other by axially extending stays.

[0147] The end of the axial stay 102 opposite the connecting ring 104 in the axial direction is connected to the radial inner ring 106. The radial inner ring 106 extends parallel to the connecting ring 104 on one side and coaxially with the connecting ring 104 on the other side. The radial inner ring 106 extends between the radial inner circumferential surfaces of the ends of the axial stay 102.

[0148] An intermediate ring 108 is positioned between the radially inner ring 106 and the connecting ring 104. The intermediate ring 108 connects the axial stays 102 to each other. The intermediate ring 108 extends parallel to the connecting ring 104 and the radially inner ring 106 on one side and coaxially with the connecting ring 104 and the radially inner ring 106 on the other side. In its radial extension, the intermediate ring 108 extends from the radially inner circumferential surface to the radially outer circumferential surface of the axial stay 102. The intermediate ring 108 is positioned at an axial distance to the radially inner ring 106 that corresponds to approximately one-third of the axial distance between the radially inner ring 106 and the connecting ring 104.

[0149] Two connecting arc sections 110 each extend along the short side 56. Each connecting arc section 110 is connected to the connecting ring 104 at its free end. Each connecting arc section 110 is connected to the central axial stay 102 at the center of its curve. Each connecting arc section 110 extends inclined with respect to the axis 22 from the connecting ring 104 toward the central axial stay 102 on the side facing the frame element 100 axially. Along each short side 56, one of the connecting arc sections 110 is connected to the central axial stay 102 at an axial distance from the connecting ring 104 that is approximately one-fifth of the axial distance between the frame element 100 and the connecting ring 104. This connecting arc section 110 connects the connecting ring 104 to the central axial stay 102. The other connecting arc portion 110 on the shorter side 56 is connected to the central axial stay 102 with respect to the connecting ring 104 at an axial distance equivalent to approximately one-quarter of the axial distance between the frame element 100 and the connecting ring 104. The latter connecting arc portion 110 connects the connecting ring 104 to the central axial stay 102 and to two axial stays 102 adjacent to the central axial stay 102 on the shorter side 56.

[0150] At the radially wider end, the axial stay 102 has a step that rises axially on the radially outward side. The step of the axial stay 102 is connected to the outer ring 112.

[0151] The radially outer ring 112 has an oval-shaped elliptical cross-section. The radially outer ring 112 extends coaxially with the axis 22. The radially outer ring 112 is axially spaced apart from the radially inner ring 106. This is achieved by a step.

[0152] At the ends of the axial stays 102, each connecting opening 114 is provided between the outer ring 112 and the radially inner ring 106. The connecting opening 114 has an axial height equal to the step at the end of the axial stay 102. The connecting opening 114 connects the axially extending fluid space 140, located between two adjacent axial stays 102, at the height of the radially inner ring 106.

[0153] The radially outer ring 112 is surrounded by the support ring 116 of the frame element 100. The support ring 116 extends coaxially with the axis 22. The support ring 116 has an oval-elliptical cross-section, which differs from the oval-elliptical cross-sections of the radially outer ring 112, the radially inner ring 106, and the connecting ring 104, and will be described in more detail below.

[0154] The support ring 116 is connected to the radially extending outer ring 112 by radially extending radial stays 118. Each radial stay 118 has a bend of approximately 90° on the side facing the support ring 16, in the direction toward the connecting ring 104. The ends of the radial stays 118 behind the bends engage with the sides of the support ring 116, which are facing away from the connecting ring 104 in the axial direction.

[0155] The support ring 116 includes four support portions 120. The reference numerals for the support portions 120 are denoted by subscripts A, B, C, and D for easy distinction.

[0156] The sides of the support portion 120 facing the connecting ring 104 in the axial direction each form a support surface 122. Similar to the reference numerals of each support portion 120, the reference numerals of the support surfaces 122 are denoted by subscripts A, B, C, and D for easy distinction. Each support surface 122 is flat. The planes of the support surfaces 122 each extend perpendicularly to the axis 22.

[0157] The first outer support portion 120 of the support ring 116 of the frame element 100 of the framework 92 of the main filter element 16 A to the first outer axial contact surface 50 A Upper first raised portion 248 A The first notch 250 corresponding to A The second outer support portion 120 of the support ring 116 of the framework 92 of the frame element 100. C second outer axial contact surface 50 C The second raised portion 248 CThe second notch 250 corresponds to this. C They are placed.

[0158] 250 notches A ,250 C These are recesses in the corresponding support portion 120 of the main filter element 16. Notch 250 A ,250 C Each is designed as a closed pocket. Notch 250 A ,250 C Each has a continuous boundary wall. The continuous boundary walls allow the corresponding protrusions 248 within the notch 250 to be aligned circumferentially and radially with respect to the axis 22. The boundary walls surround the opening of the notch 250 for the associated corresponding protrusions 248. Furthermore, each boundary wall extends to the radially opposite side of the opening. In this way, the boundary walls close the face of the notch 250 on the side opposite to the opening for the corresponding protrusions 248.

[0159] First outer support portion 120 A The first notch 250 of the main filter element 16 inside A and the second outer support part 120 C The second notch inside is 250 C This is different. First outer support part 120 A First notch inside 250 A and the second outer support part 120 C The second notch inside is 250 C This means that the circumferential length and radial width are different from each other.

[0160] The internal dimensions of the notches 250 of the main filter element 16 are the same as the external dimensions of the corresponding protrusions 248 of the housing pot 12. The notches 250 of the main filter element 16 and the associated corresponding protrusions 248 of the housing pot 12 are complementary. A ,250 CThe support portions 120 of the main filter element 16, each having the above, do not, as a whole, have rotational symmetry with respect to the axis 22. In the mounted state in which the main filter element 16 is installed within the housing pod 12, the raised portion 248 and the associated corresponding notch 250 are designed to be mirror symmetric with respect to a virtual plane extending perpendicular to the virtual axis 22.

[0161] Overall, the frame element 100 extends radially inward from the support portion 120 and toward the inlet side 226 of the main filter element 16.

[0162] The cross-section of the radially outer circumferential surface of the support ring 116 corresponds in shape to the cross-section of the radially inner circumferential surface of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12. The radially outer circumferential length of the support ring 116 is slightly smaller than the radially inner circumferential length of the collar wall 44.

[0163] The support ring 116 includes a flat curved portion 124 and a circular curved portion 126 on its radially outer wall surface. The flat curved portion 124 and the circular curved portion 126 are connected to each other by two opposing linear connecting portions 128. The radius of curvature of the flat curved portion 124 is greater than the radius of curvature of the circular curved portion 126. Therefore, as a whole, the support ring 116, and by extension the radially outer wall side of the frame element 100, does not have rotational symmetry with respect to the axis 22.

[0164] Central support surface 122 B Central support section 120 having B At the center of the flat curved portion 124, the corresponding outer support surface 122 A and 122 C Two outer support parts 120 having A and 120 C It extends between each of the two sub-surfaces 122. A and 122 C Part 120 having A and 120 C It extends between each of the linear connection parts 128. Two lateral support parts 120 A and 120 CThe circumferential extension length is that of the two side contact surfaces 50 of the housing pot 12 A and 50 C corresponds to the circumferential extension length.

[0165] The support portion 120 having the support surface 122 D extends to the center of the circular curved portion 126 on the radially opposite side of the central support portion 120. The support portion 120 D is the central support portion 120 B extends at the center of the circular curved portion 126 on the radially opposite side. The support portion 120 D and the support surface 122 D has a circumferential extension length greater than that of the contact surface 50 of the housing pot 12 D in the circumferential extension length.

[0166] The support portion 120 having the support surface 122 D transitions without a step to each adjacent linear connection portion 128 of the support ring 116. D transitions without a step to each adjacent linear connection portion 128 of the support ring 116.

[0167] The outer support surface 120 B and the central support surface 122 D are arranged at the same axial height. The outer support surface 122 A is arranged on the side facing the connection ring 104 of the support ring 116 with an axial distance from the central support surface 122 B On the other hand, the outer support surface 122 C is arranged on the side facing the connection ring 104 of the support ring 116 with an axial distance from the central support surface 122 B On the other hand, the outer support surface 122 A The distance of the outer support surface 122 C is greater than the distance of the outer support surface 122 A The distance of the outer support surface 122 A corresponds to the distance 66 of the outer contact surface 50 of the housing pot 12 C The distance of the outer support surface 122 C corresponds to the distance 64 of the outer contact surface 50 of the housing pot 12.

[0168] Overall, the side surface of the support ring 116 facing the connecting ring 104 in the region of the support portion 120 is complementary to the side surface of the collar 48 of the housing pot 12 which faces in a direction that is axially separated from the housing bottom portion 32.

[0169] The filter media body 90 comprises an outer filter bellows 134 and an inner filter bellows 136. The filter bellows 134 and 136 are each made of folded filter media, such as a filter nonwoven fabric.

[0170] The outer filter bellows 134 has a hollow frustoconical shape with an oval elliptical base. The outer filter bellows 134 is coaxial with the axis 22. The base of the outer filter bellows 134 is positioned on the side of the main filter element 16 where the frame element 100 of the framework 92 is also located. The radially inner wall surface of the outer filter bellows 134 extends parallel to its radially outer wall surface. The folds of the folded outer filter bellows 134 each extend axially. The folds define the respective wall sides.

[0171] The radially outer wall surface of the outer filter bellows 134 forms the radially outer external wall surface 242 of the filter media body 90. The radially outer external wall surface 242 of the filter media body 90 has two curved sections and two straight connecting sections with respect to its shape surrounding the axis 22. The curved sections are arranged radially opposite to each other on the short side 56. The connecting sections are arranged radially opposite to each other on the long side 54. The curved sections are connected by the straight connecting sections.

[0172] The radial thickness of the outer filter bellows 134 is defined by the pleat height. The radial thickness of the outer filter bellows 134 approximately corresponds to the radial distance from the support ring 116 of the frame element 100 of the framework 92 to the radially outer ring 112, and to the radially outer side of the axial stay 102.

[0173] The radial outer circumference and radial inner circumference of the outer filter bellows 134 decrease in the axial direction from the frame element 100 of the framework 92 toward the connecting ring 104, respectively. The outer filter bellows 134 tapers in the axial direction from the frame element 100 toward the connecting ring 104.

[0174] The radially inner wall surface of the outer filter bellows 134 is supported by the radially outer surfaces of the axial stays 102, intermediate ring 108, and connecting arc portion 110 of the frame 92.

[0175] The inner filter bellows 136 has a hollow frustoconical shape with an oval elliptical base. The inner filter bellows 136 is coaxial with the axis 22. The base of the inner filter bellows 136 is positioned on the side of the main filter element 16 where the connecting ring 104 of the framework 92 is also located. The radially inner wall surface of the inner filter bellows 136 extends parallel to its radially outer wall surface. The folds of the folded inner filter bellows 136 each extend axially. The folds define the respective wall sides.

[0176] The radial thickness of the inner filter bellows 136 is defined by the pleat height. The radial thickness of the inner filter bellows 136 is approximately equivalent to the radial thickness of the outer filter bellows 134.

[0177] The radially outer and radially inner circumferences of the inner filter bellows 136 decrease in the axial direction from the connecting ring 104 of the framework 92 toward the frame element 100, respectively. Viewed in the axial direction, the outer filter bellows 134 tapers toward the frame element 100 from the connecting ring 104.

[0178] The radially outer wall surface of the inner filter bellows 136 is supported by the radially inner sides of the axial stay 102, intermediate ring 108, radially inner ring 106, and connecting arc portion 110 of the frame 92.

[0179] The circumference of the radially outer wall surface of the inner filter bellows 136 in the bottom region is slightly smaller than the circumference of the radially inner wall surface of the outer filter bellows 134 in the cover region. The inner filter bellows 136 is coaxially positioned inside the enclosure of the outer filter bellows 134.

[0180] On the connecting ring 104 side of the frame 92, the bottom surface of the outer filter bellows 134 is connected to the bottom surface of the inner filter bellows 136 by connecting pleats 138 that extend in the circumferential and radial directions.

[0181] A fluid space 140 is provided between the radially outer circumferential surface of the inner filter bellows 136 and the radially inner circumferential surface of the inner filter bellows 136. In the circumferential direction, each of the fluid spaces 140 is defined by one of two adjacent axial stays 102. The gaseous medium to be purified can flow into the fluid space 140. From the fluid space 140, the gaseous medium to be purified can flow in a functionally parallel manner: from the radially inner to the outer side through the outer filter bellows 134, and from the radially outer to the inner side through the inner filter bellows 136.

[0182] The end member 94 closes the interior 142 of the element, which is surrounded by the inner filter bellows 136, at its axial end face facing the frame element 100. The end member 94 is positioned coaxially with the axis 22. The end member 94 has an oval-shaped elliptical cross-section. The end member 94 is connected to and supported by the radial inner ring 106 of the framework 92 in the circumferential direction with respect to the axis 22. The end member 94 is made of, for example, an elastic material, such as an elastomer.

[0183] The seal 96, shown in detail in Figure 3, will be described in more detail below. The seal 96 is annular and has an oval-elliptical shape when viewed in the axial direction. The seal 96 is integrally formed from an elastic material, such as an elastomer. The material of the seal 96 is softer than the material from which the framework 92 is formed together with the frame elements 100.

[0184] The seal 96 has a holding portion 144 and a sealing portion 146.

[0185] The retaining portion 144 connects the seal 96 to the frame element 100 of the framework 92. In this regard, the seal 96 having the retaining portion 144 can be bonded or molded to the side of the frame element 100 facing axially away from the connecting ring 104. The retaining portion 144 surrounds the radially outer ring 112 of the framework 92 and the step at the end of the axial stay 102, both radially outward and radially inward. Thus, the frame element 100 is partially embedded by the material of the seal 96.

[0186] The holding portion 144 leaves the support surface 122 exposed on the side of the support ring 116 that faces the connecting ring 104 in the axial direction.

[0187] The retaining portion 144 extends radially outward beyond the radially outer ring 112 of the frame 92 and transitions to the sealing portion 146 in the radially outer region of the support ring 116.

[0188] The sealing portion 146 is positioned directly adjacent to the radially outer wall surface of the support ring 116, and consequently the frame element 100, with respect to the shaft 22. Furthermore, the sealing portion 146 is positioned completely radially outward from the radially outer wall surface of the filter media body 90 with respect to the shaft 22.

[0189] The free side 150 of the holding portion 144, which faces away from the frame elements of the framework 92, extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis 22.

[0190] The seal portion 146 is a seal stay. The seal portion 146 extends axially in a direction away from the support ring 116. The free end of the seal portion 146 extends in a virtual plane perpendicular to the axis 22. The axial free end 148 of the seal portion 146 protrudes axially beyond the side surface 150 of the retaining portion 144, which faces away from the frame 92. The radial outer circumference of the seal portion 146 in the region of the free end 148 is slightly larger than the radial outer circumference of the seal portion 146 in the region of the support ring 116. Correspondingly, the radial inner circumference of the seal portion 146 in the region of the free end 148 is smaller than the radial inner circumference of the seal portion 146 in the region of the transition to the retaining portion 144. The seal portion 146 tapers axially in a conical shape from the free end 148 toward the support ring 116.

[0191] The sealing portion 146 is offset radially outward with respect to the radially outer outer wall surface 242 of the filter medium 90.

[0192] When the seal 96 is relaxed, the axial distance 188 between each partial surface 122 of the frame element 100 of the framework 92 and the free end 148 of the seal 96 is greater than the axial distance 190 between the corresponding contact surface 50 of the collar 48 of the housing pot 12 and the free edge 192 of the collar wall 44.

[0193] A recess 152 is positioned at the transition from the retaining portion 144 to the sealing portion 146. The recess 152 extends circumferentially with respect to the axis 22 along the radially inward side of the sealing portion 146 on the side surface 150 of the retaining portion 144, which faces away from the support ring 116 in the axial direction.

[0194] Viewed in the axial direction, the seal portion 146 has an oval-elliptical shape. The shape of the seal portion 146 corresponds to the shape of the color wall 44 of the housing pot 12 and the frame element 100 of the framework 92 when viewed in the axial direction.

[0195] The sealing portion 146 has a flat curved portion 154 on one of its short sides 56 and a circular curved portion 156 on the opposite short side 56. The flat curved portion 154 has a larger radius of curvature than the circular curved portion 156. The flat curved portion 154 and the circular curved portion 156 are connected at the long side 54 by a linear connecting portion 158.

[0196] In the following, the immersion plate 18 will be described in more detail based on Figure 6, which shows a detailed view of the immersion plate 18.

[0197] The immersion plate 18 is constructed as a single unit. The immersion plate 18 is made of a plastic material, for example, an injection-molded rigid plastic material. For example, the immersion plate 18 is manufactured by injection molding.

[0198] The immersion tube plate 18 comprises a plate portion 160, a plurality of immersion tubes 162, and ribs 164.

[0199] The plate portion 160 extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis 22. Multiple immersion tubes 162 are distributed within the plate portion 160. Each of the immersion tubes 162 is part of a cyclone separator 166. Figure 2 illustrates, for example, a part of the cyclone separator 166. The cyclone separator 166 is designed, for example, as an axial flow cyclone. The immersion tube plate 18, having the immersion tubes 162, is integrated with the cyclone housing 20 to form a cyclone block 24. The cyclone block 24 comprises multiple cyclone separators 166.

[0200] Each of the immersion tubes 162 has a roughly cylindrical trapezoidal shape, with its axis extending parallel to the axis 22. The frustoconical base of the immersion tube 162 is positioned towards the plate portion 160. The immersion tube 162 tapers away from the plate portion 160 when viewed axially. The interior of the immersion tube 162 functions as an inlet opening 168 for the gaseous medium to be purified.

[0201] The plate portion 160 transitions to a rib 164 at its radially outer edge. The rib 164 extends continuously in the circumferential direction coaxially with the axis 22. The rib 164 as a whole has a substantially V-shaped contour.

[0202] One of the legs of the V-shaped rib 164, hereafter referred to as the axial leg 170, is connected to the edge of the plate portion 160. The axial leg 170 is positioned radially inward of the rib 164. The axial leg 170 extends axially substantially parallel to the axis 22 and circumferentially, at least in the relaxed state, for example, when the immersion plate 18 is not attached.

[0203] The other leg of the "V," referred to below as the inclined leg 172, is connected to the axial leg 170 on the side facing away from the plate portion 160 in the axial direction. The connecting edge between the axial leg 170 and the inclined leg 172, i.e., the closed side of the "V," is referred to below as the rib edge 174. The inclined leg 172 is positioned radially outward of the rib 164. On the side facing the plate portion 160 in the axial direction, the inclined leg 172 extends radially outward from the rib edge 174, inclined with respect to the axis 22. The free end of the inclined leg 172 is referred to as the free edge 176.

[0204] The radially outer side of the inclined leg portion 172 forms a contact surface 178. When the filter device 10 is assembled, the contact surface 178 is positioned on the sealing portion 146 of the seal 96 of the main filter element 16, as described below. The contact surface 178 is inclined with respect to the axis 22 and extends circumferentially. The contact surface 178 extends at an acute angle 180 with respect to the axis 22. The angle 180 can be, for example, about 30° to 45°.

[0205] The axial distance 182 between the free edge 176 and the rib edge 174 is approximately the same as the axial distance between the rib edge 174 and the plate portion 160.

[0206] Viewed in the axial direction, the rib 164 has an oval-elliptical shape. The shape of the rib 164 corresponds to the shape of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12, the frame element 100 of the framework 92, and the sealing portion 146 of the seal 96 when viewed in the axial direction.

[0207] As shown in Figure 2, the rib 164 has a flat curved section 230 on one of its short sides 56 and a circular curved section 232 on the opposite short side 56. The flat curved section 230 has a larger radius of curvature than the circular curved section 232. The flat curved section 230 and the circular curved section 232 are connected at the long side 54 by linear connecting sections 234, respectively.

[0208] The circumference of the rib edge 174 corresponds to the circumference of the recess 152 of the seal 96. The acute angle 180 of the contact surface 178 is greater than the angle between the radially inner sealing surface 184 of the sealing portion 146 of the seal 96 and the axis 22 when the seal 96 is relaxed, for example, in the unmounted state. The axial distance 182 between the rib edge 174 and the free edge 176 of the rib 164 corresponds approximately to the axial distance 186 between the base of the recess 152 and the free end 148 of the sealing portion 146 in the seal 96.

[0209] The cyclone housing 20 will be described in more detail below, based on Figures 1, 2, and 7.

[0210] The cyclone housing 20 comprises a fastening frame 194, multiple separation chambers 196, a particle discharge device 198, and a total of four clamp clips 78.

[0211] The separation chambers 196 are located within the main body 200 of the cyclone housing 20. Each separation chamber 196 is associated with one of the immersion tubes 162 of the immersion tube plate 18. Each immersion tube 162 having a corresponding separation chamber 196 forms one of the cyclone separators 166. Each separation chamber 196 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The axis of the separation chamber 196 extends parallel to the axis 22. When the filter device 10 is assembled, the axis of the separation chamber 196 extends coaxially with the axis of the corresponding immersion tube 162.

[0212] The particle discharge device 198 is located radially outward from the main unit 200. The separation chamber 196 is connected to the particle discharge device 198 in a fluid communication manner, in a manner not covered in this context. This allows particles, such as dust particles, separated from the gaseous medium to be purified in each cyclone separator 166 to reach the particle discharge device 198.

[0213] The particle discharge device 198 has a discharge opening 202. The discharge opening 202 is closed during normal operation of the filter device 10. The discharge opening 202 can be opened to discharge particles collected in the particle discharge device 198. For example, in the operating mounting orientation of the filter device 10 shown in Figure 1, the particle discharge device 198 is positioned spatially at the bottom of the cyclone housing 20. Therefore, the discharge opening 202 is spatially oriented downward.

[0214] The fastening frame 194 is positioned on the axial end face of the main section 200. On the side of the main section 200 opposite to the fastening frame 194 in the axial direction, each of the separation chambers 196 has an introduction opening 204 for the gaseous medium to be purified. On the side facing the fastening frame 194 in the axial direction, each of the separation chambers 196 has an opening for the corresponding immersion tube 196.

[0215] The fastening frame 194 has an outer frame wall 206 connected to the main part 200 by a collar 208.

[0216] The outer frame wall 206 and collar 208 extend continuously in the circumferential direction around the axis 22.

[0217] The collar 208 extends radially outward from the main portion 200. The outer frame wall 206 extends axially from the collar 208 in a direction away from the main portion 200.

[0218] The outer frame wall 206 has a guide slope 210 on its radially inner circumferential surface in the region of its free edge that faces in a direction axially away from the main portion 200. In the region of the guide slope 210, the radially inner circumferential length of the outer frame wall 206 increases axially from the main portion 200 toward the free edge.

[0219] The circumferential shape of the outer frame wall 206 around the axis 22 corresponds to the circumferential shape of the collar 42 of the housing pot 12.

[0220] Viewed in the axial direction, the outer frame wall 206 has an oval-elliptical shape. The shape of the outer frame wall 206 corresponds to the shape of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12, the frame elements 100 of the framework 92, the sealing portion 146 of the seal 96, and the ribs 164 of the immersion plate 18 when viewed in the axial direction.

[0221] The outer frame wall 206 has a flat curved section 236 on one of its short sides 56 and a circular curved section 238 on the opposite short side 56. The flat curved section 236 has a larger radius of curvature than the circular curved section 238. The flat curved section 236 and the circular curved section 238 are connected at the long side 54 by linear connecting sections (not shown).

[0222] The radial inner circumference of the outer frame wall 206 in the axial region between the guide slope 210 and the main section 200 is slightly larger than the radial outer circumference of the collar 42 of the housing pot 12.

[0223] The radially outer surface of the main section 200 has an oval-elliptical shape when viewed in the axial direction. In this regard, the curved portion on the short side 56 has the same radius of curvature. Therefore, the oval-elliptical shape of the main section 200 is different from the oval-elliptical shape of the outer frame wall 206. The radially outer circumference of the main section 200 is approximately the radially outer circumference of the main wall section 46 of the housing pot 12.

[0224] Two of the clamp clips 78 are each disposed on the flat curved portion 236 side in the region of the transition portion to the corresponding linear connection portion. The other two clamp clips 78 are each disposed on the circular curved portion 238 side in the region of the transition portion to the corresponding linear connection portion.

[0225] The clamp clips 78 each engage in the region outside the collar 208 facing in a direction axially spaced from the outer frame wall 206. The clamp clips 78 extend beyond the free edge of the outer frame wall 206. The clamp clips 78 are, for example, spring clips.

[0226] Hereinafter, a method of assembling the filter device 10 will be described.

[0227] First, the dip tube plate 18 is connected to the cyclone housing 20. For this purpose, with the dip tube 162 at the head, the dip tube plate 18 is axially inserted into the fastening frame 194. In this regard, it may be necessary to rotate the dip tube plate 18 and the cyclone housing 20 relative to each other about the axis 22 so that on the one hand, the flat curved portion 236 of the outer frame wall 206 coincides with the flat curved portion 230 of the rib 164, and on the other hand, the circular curved portion of the fastening frame 194 coincides with the circular curved portion 232 of the rib 164.

[0228] During assembly, the dip tubes 162 are each disposed in one of the separation chambers 196. Subsequently, the dip tube plate 18 is fixed to the cyclone housing 20 with the screw 28. When the main filter element 16 and / or the rear filter element 14 are to be replaced in the future from the filter device 10, the dip tube plate 18 can remain on the cyclone housing 20. Thereby, the entire cyclone block 24 can be separated from the housing pot 12.

[0229] The rear filter element 14 is inserted axially into the housing pot 12 through the service opening 34, starting with the side facing in the direction axially spaced from the seal 88. In this regard, it may be necessary to rotate the housing pot 12 and the rear filter element 14 relative to each other about the axis 22 such that the long side 54 of the rear filter element 14 coincides with the long side 54 of the housing pot 12 and the short side 56 of the rear filter element 14 coincides with the short side 56 of the housing pot 12. The rear filter element 14 is disposed at a step of the housing wall 30 axially adjacent to the housing bottom 32.

[0230] Subsequently, the main filter element 16 is inserted axially into the filter element interior 36 of the housing pot 12 through the service opening 34, starting with the side facing in the direction axially spaced from the seal 96. For this purpose, it may be necessary to rotate the housing pot 12 and the main filter element 16 relative to each other about the axis 22 such that the short side 56 of the main filter element 16 having the flat curved portion 124 of the frame element 100 of the framework 92 and the flat curved portion 154 of the seal 88 coincides with the short side 56 of the housing pot 12 having the flat curved portion 58 of the collar wall 44.

[0231] At this relative rotational position, the bulge 248 on the housing pot 12 side A 、248 C also coincides with each corresponding notch 250 on the frame element 100 side of the main filter element 16 A 、250 C respectively.

[0232] The main filter element 16 is axially pushed into the housing pot 12 until the support surface 122 of the framework 92 axially contacts the corresponding contact surface 50 of the collar 42.

[0233] In the mounted state where the main filter element 16 is disposed within the filter element receiving space 36 of the housing pot 12, the first outer axial contact surface 50 of the collar 42 protruding radially from the housing pot 12 A the first bulge 248 thereonA However, the first outer support portion 120 of the main filter element 16 A The corresponding first notch 250 A The second outer axial contact surface 50 of the collar 42 that protrudes radially from the housing pot 12 engages with it. C Upper second raised portion 248 C However, the second outer support portion 120 of the main filter element 16 C The corresponding second notch 250 C To engage with.

[0234] Outer axial contact surface 50 of collar 42 that protrudes radially from housing component 12 A , 50 C Upper raised portion 248 A ,248 C The arrangement and the outer support portion 120 of the main filter element 16 A , 120 C Corresponding notch 250 A ,250 C This arrangement provides a unique installation location for the main filter element 16 within the housing component 12.

[0235] Ridge 248 A ,248 C and the corresponding notch 250 A ,250 C The interaction with prevents the main filter element 16 from being mounted in different installation positions. Furthermore, the required notch 250 A ,250 C This prevents the installation of filter elements that do not have this feature. Overall, this reduces the risk of incorrect installation of the main filter element 16, and of incorrect, i.e., inappropriate installation of the main filter element 16.

[0236] Furthermore, the radially outer wall surface 212 of the seal portion 146 is radially spaced apart from the inner wall surface 86 of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12. A radial gap (not shown) remains between the radially outer wall surface 212 of the seal 96 and the inner wall surface 86 of the collar 42. The radial gap extends circumferentially and axially with respect to the axis 22, over the entire axially extending length of the inner wall surface 86. In the pre-installed state, the free end 148 of the seal portion 146 protrudes axially beyond the free edge 192 of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12.

[0237] Next, with the immersion plate 18 leading, the cyclone block 24 is pressed axially against the collar 42 of the housing pot 12. In this regard, it may be necessary to rotate the housing pot 12 and the cyclone block 24 around the axis 22 so that the short side 56 of the collar wall 44 having the flat curved portion 58 coincides with the short side 56 of the outer frame wall 206 of the cyclone housing 20 having the flat curved portion 236, and correspondingly, the short side 56 of the collar wall 44 having the circular curved portion 60 coincides with the short side 56 of the outer frame wall 206 having the circular curved portion 238.

[0238] When pressed axially, the free edge 192 of the collar wall 44 is first guided along the radially inward guide slope 210 of the outer frame wall 206 of the cyclone housing 20, thereby aligning within the fastening frame 94. Further insertion causes the radially outward side of the inclined leg portion 172 of the rib 164 of the immersion plate 18 to slide along the radially inward sealing surface 184 of the seal 96. Because the inclined leg portion 172 has a larger inclination angle with respect to the axis 22 than the radially inward sealing surface 184 of the seal 96, the rib 164 pushes the seal portion 146 radially outward relative to the inner wall surface 86.

[0239] Further insertion causes the rib edge 174 of the rib 164 to fit into the recess 152 of the seal 96. Furthermore, the collar 208 of the cyclone housing 20 presses the free end 148 of the seal portion 146 in the axial direction. As a result, the seal portion 146 is compressed and deformed in the axial direction. The material of the seal portion 146 releases the axial compression radially. This generates an additional radially acting contact pressure that presses the seal portion 146 against the inner wall surface 86 of the collar wall 44.

[0240] As shown in Figure 1, the free end of the clamp clip 78 is hooked behind each of the engaging portions 76. Subsequently, the clamp clip 78 is clamped. This presses the cyclone block 24 firmly against the collar 42 in the axial direction. Axial movement is limited by the free edge 192 of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12 being axially supported by the collar 208 of the cyclone housing 20, as shown in Figures 2 and 7.

[0241] In the final mounting position shown in Figures 1, 2, and 7, the radially outer wall surface 212 of the seal 96 is in close contact with the contact portion 218 on the inner wall surface 86 of the collar 42 of the housing pot 12. The contact portion 218 starts at a position 220 axially away from the frame elements 100 of the framework 92, particularly each contact surface 50, and extends axially to the free edge 192 of the collar wall 44. Between the frame elements 100 and the starting end of the contact portion 218, a residual gap 222 remains between the radially outer circumferential surface of the seal portion 146 and the inner wall surface 86 of the collar wall 44. The residual gap 222 is continuous in the circumferential direction and extends axially. The residual gap 222 has a wedge-shaped contour that decreases axially toward the contact portion 218.

[0242] Each immersion tube 162 has an outlet end 248 on the side facing the inlet side 226 of the filter element 16. The outlet end 248 is surrounded by an immersion tube edge 250. The immersion tube edges 250 of adjacent immersion tubes 162 are continuous with each other. The immersion tube edges 250 are formed on the plate portion 160 of the immersion tube plate 18.

[0243] When the filter device 10 is assembled, the immersion tube edge 250 is positioned radially inward of the seal portion 146, at an axial distance 252 from the free end 148 of the circumferential seal 96, as shown in Figure 7, for example.

[0244] The outlet end 248 of the immersion tube 162 is located beyond the axial free end 148 on the inlet side of the circumferential seal 96, when viewed in the axial direction. The immersion tube edge 250 surrounding the outlet end 248, and consequently the outlet end 248 of the immersion tube 162, extends axially behind the free end 148 of the circumferential seal 96, and consequently behind the inlet side end of the main filter element 16.

[0245] In the final installed state, a seal chamber 224 is provided between the immersion plate 18 and the housing pot 12, and the sealing portion 146 and a part of the retaining portion 144 of the seal 96 are arranged inside it. The seal chamber 224 is defined radially inward by the ribs 164 of the immersion plate 18, radially outward by the inner wall surface 86 of the collar wall 44 of the housing pot 12, and axially by the collar 208 of the cyclone housing 20 connected to the immersion plate 18.

[0246] For example, to be installed in a machine that requires a gaseous medium purified by the filter device 10, the filter device 10 is installed with the short side 56, where the particle discharge device 198 of the cyclone block 24 is located, as the spatial base. In this regard, the shaft 22 is positioned substantially horizontally.

[0247] While the filter device 10 is operating, the gaseous medium to be purified, such as air, is drawn in through the inlet opening 204 of the cyclone separator 166. The flow of the gaseous medium within the filter device 10 is shown by the curved arrows in Figure 2.

[0248] In the cyclone separator 166, coarse separation of the particles is performed. The separated particles sink downward to the particle discharge device 198 according to gravity and are collected there. The discharge opening 202 of the particle discharge device 198 is opened as necessary or during maintenance, and the particle discharge device 198 is emptied.

[0249] The pre-purified gaseous medium reaches the inflow side 226 of the main filter element 16 from the inlet opening 168 of the dip tube 162. The inflow side 226 is located on the side of the main filter element 16 where the seal 96 is also arranged.

[0250] The gaseous medium to be purified flows into the flow space 140 between the outer filter bellows 134 and the inner filter bellows 136. At that time, the gaseous medium is distributed in the circumferential direction by flowing through the connection opening 114. From the flow space 140, the gaseous medium to be purified flows from the radially inner side to the outer side through the outer filter bellows 134, and is thereby further purified, reaching the annular space surrounding the main filter element 16 in the radial outer direction. The gaseous medium to be purified flows functionally in parallel from the radially outer side to the inner side through the inner filter bellows 136, and is thereby further purified, reaching the inside of the element 142.

[0251] The gaseous medium from the annular space purified in the second stage and the gaseous medium from the inside of the element 42 purified in the second stage reach the outflow side 228 of the main filter element 16. The outflow side 228 of the main filter element 16 is located on the side facing in the direction axially spaced from the inflow side 226.

[0252] From the outflow side 128, the gaseous medium purified in the second stage flows into the post-filter element 14 and is further purified by the latter.

[0253] The gaseous medium purified in a total of three stages exits the filter device 10 through the outlet opening 40 of the filter housing 26. From there, the purified gaseous medium is sucked by the corresponding components of the machine.

[0254] Figures 8 to 11 illustrate a filter device according to a second embodiment. The same elements as those in the first embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that, for example, the collar 42 of the housing component 12, the frame element 100 of the framework 92, the seal 96, the rib 164 of the immersion plate 18, and the fastening frame 194 of the cyclone housing 20 are curved in a circular manner on both short sides 56.

[0255] Furthermore, the collar 42 of the housing pot 12 has only a single, continuous contact surface 50 in the circumferential direction. No inclined surfaces are provided on the long side 54. The contact surface 50 extends in the axial height within a plane perpendicular to the axis 22.

[0256] Furthermore, the housing component 12 does not have a groove 70.

[0257] The frame element 100 of the framework 92 of the main filter element 16 comprises only a circumferentially continuous support portion 120 having a circumferentially continuous support surface 122. The support surface 122 extends in a plane perpendicular to the axis 22 and over the axial height.

[0258] On the axial contact surface 50, there are two raised portions 248 E However, it is positioned on one of the curved portions 60 of the collar 42 that protrudes radially from the housing pot 12. Each of the straight connecting portions 62 of the collar 42 that protrudes radially from the housing pot 12 has one raised portion 248 F They are placed.

[0259] Two raised portions 248 of the curved portion 60 of the axial contact surface 50 of the housing pot 12 E These may be identical with respect to their height, circumferential extension, and / or extension in directions intersecting the circumferential direction.

[0260] Also, the two raised portions 248 of the linear connection portion 62 of the axial contact surface 50 of the housing pot 12 FThese may be identical with respect to their height, circumferential extension, and / or extension in directions intersecting the circumferential direction.

[0261] Two raised portions 248 of the curved portion 60 of the axial contact surface 50 E and the two raised portions 248 of the linear connection portion 62 of the axial contact surface 50 F This is because their circumferential extension lengths differ, and therefore they are different.

[0262] The raised portion 248 of the curved portion 60 of the collar 42 that protrudes radially from the housing pot 12 E Two corresponding notches 250 E However, it is positioned on one of the curved portions 126 of the support portion 120 of the frame element 100 of the main filter element 16. The raised portion 248 of the linear connection portion 62 is located on the straight portion 128 of the support portion 120 of the frame element 100 of the main filter element 16. F Corresponding notch 250 F However, they are arranged accordingly.

[0263] 250 notches E ,250 F The notch 250 in the first embodiment A ,250 C Similarly, each is configured as a closed pocket. Notch 250 E ,250 F Each has a continuous boundary wall.

[0264] Two notches 250 in the curved portion 126 of the support portion 120 of the frame element 100 of the main filter element 16. E These are identical with respect to their height, circumferential extension, and / or extension in the direction intersecting the circumferential direction.

[0265] Similarly, the two notches 250 of the linear portion 128 of the support portion 120 of the main filter element 16 F These are identical with respect to their height, circumferential extension, and / or extension in the direction intersecting the circumferential direction.

[0266] Two notches 250 within the curved portion 126 of the support portion 120 E and the two notches 250 of the straight section 128 of the support section 120 F These differ with respect to their circumferential extension, and are therefore different.

[0267] Main filter element 16, frame element 100, notch 250 E ,250 F The internal dimensions are 250 for each notch. E or 250 F The raised portion 248 of the housing pot 12 corresponds to this. E or 248 F It is the same size as the external dimensions. The notch of frame element 100 of main filter element 16 is 250. E ,250 F and the associated corresponding raised portion 248 of the housing pot 12 E ,248 F They are complementary.

[0268] 250 notches E ,250 F The support portion 120 of the main filter element 16, which has the , does not have rotational symmetry with respect to the axis 22.

[0269] In the mounting state in which the main filter element 16 is installed inside the housing pot 12, the raised portion 248 E ,248 F and the corresponding notch 250 E ,250 F It is constructed to be mirror-symmetric with respect to a virtual plane that extends perpendicularly to the virtual axis 22.

Claims

1. A filter device (10) for a gaseous medium, particularly air, The filter housing (26) comprises at least one inlet opening (168) for the gaseous medium to be purified and at least one outlet opening (40) for the purified gaseous medium, Within the filter housing (26), at least one filter element (16), including at least one filter media body (90), is arranged between the at least one inlet opening (168) and the at least one outlet opening (40), such that the untreated side associated with the at least one inlet opening (168) is separated from the clean side associated with the at least one outlet opening (40). The filter housing (26) includes a first housing component (12) in which the outlet opening (40) is located, and the first housing component includes at least one filter element housing space (36) in which the at least one filter element (16) is located. The filter housing (26) includes a second housing component (18) on which the at least one inlet opening (168) is located, and the second housing component includes at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator (166). The second housing component (18) closes the service opening (34) of the first housing component (12), and the first housing component (12) and the second housing component (18) are detachably connected to and separable from each other so that the at least one filter element (16) can be removed through the service opening (34) of the first housing component (12). The first housing component (12) comprises a radially projecting collar (42) that extends at least partially circumferentially around the virtual axis (22), the collar having at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) with respect to the axis (22). Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ ) provides, and at the axial contact surface, the filter element (16) has at least one support portion (120; 120) that protrudes radially with respect to the shaft (22) beyond the filter body (90) and extends at least partially circumferentially around the shaft (22). Ａ , 120 Ｂ , 120 Ｃ , 120 Ｄ ) was supported, At least one axial contact surface (50; 50 Ａ , 50 Ｃ ) of the radially protruding collar (42) of the first housing part (12) engages with at least one corresponding notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ) of at least one support part (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) of the at least one filter element (16), and at least one protrusion (248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is arranged; 248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ; 248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is arranged. The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ ) The at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) and the at least one support portion (120; 120) of the at least one filter element (16) Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) the at least one corresponding notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ A filter device characterized in that the arrangement of the first housing component (12) results in a unique installation position for the at least one filter element (16) within the first housing component (12).

2. The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ ) has multiple raised sections (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is positioned, and / or, The filter element (16) and the at least one support portion (120; 120 Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) has multiple corresponding notches (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The filter device according to claim 1, wherein a ) is arranged.

3. The collar (42) of the first housing component (12) that protrudes radially, the at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) having ) Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ ) does not have rotational symmetry with respect to the axis (22), and / or, The filter element (16), the at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The at least one support portion (120; 120) having ) Ａ , 120 Ｂ , 120 Ｃ , 120 Ｄ The filter device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the ) does not have rotational symmetry with respect to the axis (22).

4. The at least one notch (250) of the at least one filter element (16) Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The internal dimensions of the at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The at least one raised portion (248) of the first housing component (12) corresponding to ) Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ The external dimensions of ) are at least the same size as, and / or, The at least one notch (250) of the at least one filter element (16) Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) and the associated corresponding at least one protrusion (248) of the first housing component (12) Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is a complementary filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ ) has at least two raised portions (248) which differ in their circumferential extension length, height, and / or radial extension length in directions intersecting the circumferential direction. Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is positioned, and / or, The at least one support part (120; 120 Ａ ; 120 Ｃ ) of the at least one filter element (16) has at least two notches (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ; 250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) with different lengths of extension in the circumferential direction, heights, and / or lengths of extension in a direction intersecting the circumferential direction, particularly in the radial direction, and / or At least one axial contact surface (50; 50 Ａ , 50 Ｃ ) of the first housing part (12) has at least two raised portions (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ; 248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) that are different in shape, dimension and / or orientation. At least one support part (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) of the at least one filter element (16) is different in shape, dimension and / or orientation and has at least two cutouts (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ; 250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) associated with the corresponding raised portions (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ; 248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ). The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The at least one filter element (16) includes a seal (96) on the inlet side (226) facing the second housing component (18) that surrounds the virtual axis (22), the seal acting to seal at least partially radially with respect to the axis (22) and including at least one sealing portion (146) extending circumferentially around the axis (22), The radially outer circumferential surface of the sealing portion (146) with respect to the shaft (22) is sealed and in contact with the radially inner internal wall surface (86) of the first housing component (12) with respect to the shaft (22). In particular, the filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein a rib (164) that protrudes with at least one axial component with respect to the shaft (22) in a direction away from the second housing component (18) and extends at least partially circumferentially around the shaft (22) applies contact pressure to the circumferentially extending seal (96), thereby pressing the circumferentially extending seal portion (146) that acts to seal at least partially radially against the inner wall surface (86) of the first housing component (12).

7. The at least one filter element (16) comprises at least one circumferentially extending frame element (100) connected to the at least one filter media body (90), In particular, the surface of at least one frame element (100) that extends at least partially in the circumferential direction is at least partially exposed. In particular, at least one exposed portion of the at least one frame element (100) is the at least one support portion (120; 120) that protrudes radially from the at least one filter element (16) Ａ ;120 Ｂ , 120 Ｃ , 120 Ｄ ) to be formed at least partially, and the at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ A filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, supported by ).

8. The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the at least one filter element (16) comprises at least one circumferentially extending seal (96) defined at its axial end facing away from the second housing component (18) by at least one circumferentially extending frame element (100).

9. The aforementioned at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) is formed on the frame element (100) of at least one filter element (16), and / or The aforementioned at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) has a continuous boundary wall, in particular the at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the ) is configured as a closed pocket.

10. The at least one frame element (100) extends at least partially axially toward the inflow side (226) and / or radially inward, starting from the at least one exposed portion and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the at least one frame element (100) is at least partially enclosed within the material of a circumferentially extending seal (96).

11. The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the rib (164) projecting away from the second housing component (18) is a sealing portion (146) of at least one filter element (16) that acts to seal at least partially in the radial direction, and supports the circumferentially extending sealing portion (146) on the radially inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion (146), in particular on the radially inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion (146) that is located radially opposite to the inner wall surface (86) of the first housing component (12).

12. A filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a rib (164) projecting away from the second housing component (18) contacts a seal (96) of at least one filter element (16) that extends circumferentially around the shaft (22) with respect to the shaft (22) at an axial rib edge (174) facing the second housing component (18).

13. The second housing component (18) is provided with a protruding rib (164), and the at least one filter element (16) is provided with a seal (96) surrounding the shaft (22), which includes at least one sealing portion (146), and the rib (164) is configured to be at least partially inclined, and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the contact surface (178) of the rib (164) that acts to seal at least partially in the radial direction and faces the radially inner circumferential surface of the sealing portion (146) that extends in the circumferential direction is positioned at an acute angle (180) with respect to the axis (22).

14. The at least one filter element (16) comprises a seal (96) surrounding the shaft (22), including at least one sealing portion (146), which acts to seal at least partially radially, and the circumferentially extending sealing portion (146) is at least partially offset radially outward with respect to the radially outer outer wall surface (242) of the filter media body (90) with respect to the shaft (22), and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the sealing portion (146) acts to seal at least partially in the radial direction and extends in the circumferential direction, and at least partially protrudes axially beyond the inlet side (226) of the filter media body (90).

15. The filter device (10) comprises a cyclone block (24) having a plurality of cyclone separators (166), the cyclone block (24) includes an immersion tube plate (18) having a plurality of immersion tubes (162) as the second housing component (18) of the filter housing (26), circumferential ribs (164) formed on the immersion tube plate (18), and / or the at least one inlet opening (168) is located on at least one component of the at least one cyclone separator (166), particularly in the immersion tube (162) of the at least one cyclone separator (166), and / or The second housing component (18) includes a portion of a cyclone block (24) having a plurality of cyclone separators (166), and / or The second housing component (18) includes or is an immersion plate (18) having at least one immersion tube (162) of the cyclone separator (166), and / or, The second housing component (18) includes a plurality of immersion tubes (162) of the corresponding cyclone separator (166), and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the second housing component (18) is disposed between the first housing component (12) and the cyclone housing (20) of the cyclone block (24) to which the at least one cyclone separator (166) belongs.

16. The second housing component (18) comprises a protruding rib (164), and the at least one filter element (16) comprises a seal (96) surrounding the shaft (22), including at least one sealing portion (146), wherein the inlet-side axial end of the circumferential seal (96) protrudes beyond the free end of the rib (164) of the second housing component (18) when viewed axially with respect to the shaft (22), and / or The rib (164), when viewed axially with respect to the shaft (22), protrudes beyond the free end of the circumferential seal (96), particularly of the at least one sealing portion (146), and / or The rib (164) enters into the recess (152) of the circumferential seal (96), which is open on the side facing the inflow side (226) in the axial direction with respect to the shaft (22). The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the second housing component (18) includes at least one immersion tube (162) of at least one cyclone separator (166), the immersion tube having an outlet end (248) that is at least partially surrounded by an immersion tube edge (250) on the side facing the inlet side (226) of the at least one filter element (16), the immersion tube edge (250) being located radially inward of the seal portion (146) at an axial distance (252) from the free end (148) of the circumferential seal (96).

17. The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the second housing component (18) comprises a protruding rib (164), the at least one filter element (16) comprises a seal (96) surrounding the shaft (22) including at least one sealing portion (146), the first housing component (12) and the second housing component (18) form a seal chamber (224) which houses the sealing portion (146) which acts at least partially radially and extends circumferentially, the seal chamber (224) is defined radially inward by the rib (164) of the second housing component (18), radially outward by the inner wall surface (86) of the first housing component (12), and axially defined by a collar (208) connected to the second housing component (18), particularly by a collar (208) of a further component (20) connected to the second housing component (18).

18. The second housing component (18) is provided with a protruding rib (164), and the at least one filter element (16) is provided with a seal (96) surrounding the shaft (22), which includes at least one sealing portion (146). The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein in the state of the filter device (10), the at least one filter element (16) is arranged in the at least one filter element housing space (36) and the second housing component (18) is freed from the first housing component (12), a radial gap exists between the inner wall surface (86) of the second housing component (18) and the radially outer circumferential surface of the sealing portion (146) which acts to seal at least partially in the radial direction and extends in the circumferential direction.

19. The first housing component (12), in particular the radially projecting collar (42), surrounds the shaft (22), surrounds the service opening (34), and on the side facing away from the filter element housing space (36) in the axial direction, the axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ A filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising a colored wall (44) that protrudes beyond ).

20. The filter body (90) has a cross-sectional shape having at least two curved sides connected by two particularly straight sides, and / or The filter media body (90) comprises a radially outer filter media portion (134) and a radially inner filter media portion (136) that are circumferentially continuous with respect to the shaft (22), the radially inner filter media portion being located inside the radially outer filter media portion (134), and / or The outer wall of the filter media body (90), particularly the outer wall of the radially outer filter media portion (134) of the filter media body (90), has an elliptical cross-section, and / or The inner wall of the filter media body (90), particularly the inner wall of the radially inner filter media portion (136) of the filter media body (90), has an elliptical cross-section, and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the outer wall of the filter media body (90), particularly the outer wall of the radially outer filter media portion (134) of the filter media body (90), is tapered, particularly conically tapered, when viewed from the inlet side (226) in the direction of the axis (22), and / or the inner wall of the filter media body (90), particularly the inner wall of the radially inner filter media portion (136) of the filter media body (90), is tapered, particularly conically tapered, when viewed from the outlet side (228) in the direction of the axis (22).

21. At least one filter media portion of the filter media body (90), in particular the radially outer filter media portion (134) of the filter media body (90), is capable of flowing from the radially inner to the outer side, and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein at least one filter media portion of the filter media body (90), in particular the radially inner filter media portion (136) of the filter media body (90), is capable of flowing from the radially outer to the inner side.

22. The at least one filter media body (90) comprises at least two filter bellows (134, 136), in particular an inner filter bellows (136) and an outer filter bellows (134), in particular at least two folded filter bellows (134, 136), the filter bellows extending at least partially around the shaft (22) and being able to circulate in parallel the gaseous medium to be purified, and / or The inner filter bellows (136) of the at least one filter media body (90) is located inside the area surrounded by the outer filter bellows (134) of the at least one filter media body (90), and / or The filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the at least one filter media body (90) comprises at least one filter bellows (134, 136), in particular an inner filter bellows (136) and / or an outer filter bellows (134), the filter bellows being inclined with respect to the axis (22).

23. A filter element (16) for a filter device (10) for a gaseous medium, especially for air, especially for an air filter device, and especially for a filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, It comprises at least one filter media body (90), The filter device (10) comprises a filter housing (26) having at least one inlet opening (168) and at least one outlet opening (40), The filter element (16) is housed within the filter housing (26) between the at least one inlet opening (168) and the at least one outlet opening (40) in order to separate the untreated side associated with the at least one inlet opening (168) from the clean side associated with the at least one outlet opening (40). The filter housing (26) includes a first housing component (12) having the outlet opening (40), and the first housing component includes a filter element housing space (36) in which the filter element (16) can be arranged. The filter housing (26) includes a second housing component (18) having the at least one inlet opening (168), the second housing component including at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator (166), The first and second housing components (18) are detachably connected to and separable from each other so that the filter element (16) can be removed through the service opening (34) of the first housing component (12), and the service opening (34) can be closed by the second housing component (18). The first housing component (12) comprises a radially projecting collar (42) that extends at least partially circumferentially around the virtual axis (22), the collar having at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) with respect to the axis (22). Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ ) provides, and at the axial contact surface, the filter element (16) has at least one support portion (120; 120) that protrudes radially beyond the filter body (90) with respect to the axis (22) and extends at least partially circumferentially around the axis (22). Ａ ;120 Ｂ , 120 Ｃ , 120 Ｄ ) is supportable, The filter element (16) and the at least one support portion (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) is the axial contact surface (50; 50) of the collar (42) that protrudes radially from the first housing component (12). Ａ 50 Ｃ ) has at least one corresponding raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) has at least one notch (250) into which it can engage Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) has, The filter element (16) and the at least one circumferential support portion (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) the at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The arrangement of the collar (42) projecting radially from the first housing component (12) is such that the at least one axial contact surface (50; 50 Ａ 50 Ｃ ) the at least one corresponding raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ A filter element characterized in that, when mounted in an engagement state with the first housing component (12), it provides a unique installation position for the filter element (16) within the first housing component (12).

24. A filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, particularly an air filter device, comprising a filter element (16) having at least one filter media body (90), particularly a filter element (16) for a gaseous medium, particularly an air filter element, The filter element (16) protrudes radially beyond the filter media body (90) with respect to the virtual axis (22) and extends at least partially circumferentially around the axis (22), having at least one support portion (120; 120 Ａ ;120 Ｂ , 120 Ｃ , 120 Ｄ The support portion comprises a collar (42) projecting radially from the first housing component (12) and extending at least partially circumferentially with respect to the shaft (22), and at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) with respect to the shaft (22) of the collar (42). Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ ) Supported by, The filter element (16) and the at least one support portion (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) is the axial contact surface (50; 50) of the collar (42) that protrudes radially from the first housing component (12). Ａ 50 Ｃ ) has at least one corresponding raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) engages with at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) has, The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ ) The at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) and the at least one support portion (120; 120) of the at least one filter element (16) Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) the at least one corresponding notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ The arrangement of the first housing component (12) is characterized in that it results in a unique installation position for the at least one filter element (16) within the first housing component (12).

25. A filter device (10) for a gaseous medium, more particularly a method for assembling the filter device according to any one of claims 1 to 22, At least one filter element (16), comprising at least one filter media body (90), is inserted through a service opening (34) into the filter element housing space (36) of a first housing component (12) of the filter housing (26) of the filter device (10), which has at least one outlet opening (40) for the purified gaseous medium. The first housing component (12) extends at least partially circumferentially around the virtual housing axis (22) and has at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) with respect to the housing axis (22). Ａ 50 Ｃ The axial contact surface is provided with a radially projecting collar (42) and at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) is arranged, and the at least one filter element (16) protrudes radially beyond the at least one filter media body (90) with respect to the filter element axis (22), extends at least partially circumferentially around the filter element axis (22), and has at least one notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) having at least one support part (120; 120 Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) equipped, When introducing the at least one filter element (16) through the service opening (34), the housing axis (22) and the filter element axis (22) are arranged in parallel, and the at least one filter element (16) is in contact with the at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12). Ａ 50 Ｃ ) the at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ ) the support portion (120; 120) of the filter element (16) Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) the at least one corresponding notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ ) engages with the support portion (120; 120) of the filter element (16) that extends in at least one circumferential direction Ａ ;120 Ｃ ) the at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the protruding collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ 50 Ｄ The first housing component (12) is aligned with respect to the rotational direction of at least one of the shafts (22), which are the housing shaft (22) and the filter element shaft (22), so as to be supported by the first housing component (12), Subsequently, the service opening (34) is closed by a second housing component (18) of the filter housing (26), which includes at least one inlet opening (168) for the gaseous medium to be purified and at least a portion of at least one cyclone separator (166). The at least one axial contact surface (50; 50) of the radially projecting collar (42) of the first housing component (12) Ａ 50 Ｃ ) The at least one raised portion (248 Ａ , 248 Ｃ ;248 Ｅ , 248 Ｆ The arrangement of the at least one filter element (16) and the at least one support portion (120; 120 Ａ , 120 Ｃ ) the at least one corresponding notch (250 Ａ , 250 Ｃ ;250 Ｅ , 250 Ｆ A method characterized in that, by the arrangement of the first housing component (12), at least one filter element (16) is positioned at a unique installation location within the first housing component (12).

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