Filter assemblies and associated filter elements

Abstract

A fluid filter assembly comprising a filter housing for housing a replaceable filter element, and a filter element operably disposed within the filter housing and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium. The filter housing includes a first housing section and a second housing section. The first end cap is adapted to the connection between the first housing section and the second housing section so as to be detachable to the first housing section and detachable to the second housing section, and preferably to seal; relating to a filter element and adapter for use in a fluid filter assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This application was filed as a PCT international application on March 11, 2024, claiming the priority of European Patent Application No. 23170712.6 filed on April 28, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Technical field to which the invention pertains The present disclosure relates to filter assemblies and filter elements. In particular, the present disclosure relates to bowl / cartridge filter assemblies for filtering liquids such as fuels, lubricating fluids such as oils, and hydraulic fluids.

[0003] Background Filter elements, also referred to as filter cartridges, are used in a wide variety of filtration applications, and the fluid to be filtered can be a liquid or a gas.

[0004] Often, it is desirable to filter contaminants from the fluid flow. For example, the liquid flow to an automotive engine or the liquid flow for use in a hydraulic device contains particulate contaminants. In such systems, it is preferable to remove or at least reduce the contaminants from the fluid to reduce the risk of damage to the device.

[0005] The filter element comprises a filter medium for removing contaminants when the fluid flows through the filter medium. Commonly used and commercially available filter media are, for example, pleated media or grooved media. When the filter medium is loaded with particles exceeding a specific threshold load, the filter element needs to be replaced. The filter element is typically installed in the housing in a replaceable manner.

[0006] A special category of filter assembly in the field of liquid filtration is the bowl / cartridge filter. Such an assembly includes a filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, a filter element operably positioned within the filter bowl, and a filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. The filter bowl can be attached to the filter head to be sealed, for example, by screw connections and appropriately placed seals. Bowl / cartridge filter assemblies exist in both upright and suspended configurations.

[0007] Many bowl / cartridge type assemblies allow for the flow of each liquid even without a filter element installed, increasing the risk of damage to the device.

[0008] Bowl / cartridge-type filters that avoid the aforementioned problems are needed in industry.

[0009] overview An object of the embodiments of this disclosure is to provide a filtration assembly that prevents the associated equipment from operating if a suitable filter element is not installed.

[0010] The present invention is defined in the appended independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0011] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a fluid filter assembly is provided, - A filter housing for accommodating a replaceable filter element, - A filter element operably disposed within a filter housing and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium. Includes, The filter housing includes a first housing section and a second housing section; A fluid filter assembly is disclosed in which the first end cap is adapted to a connection between the first and second housings so as to be detachably mounted to a first housing and a second housing, and preferably to be sealed.

[0012] An advantage is that a filtration assembly is provided in which the filter bowl cannot be attached to the filter head if a suitable filter element is not present.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the first suspended type, the assembly is: - A filter bowl corresponding to the first housing portion, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, - A filter element operably positioned within a filter bowl and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, - A filter head corresponding to a second housing section for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. Includes, The first end cap is adapted to a connection of the filter head to the filter bowl so as to be detachable to the filter head and detachable to the filter bowl, and preferably to be sealed.

[0014] For the purposes of this disclosure, “removable mounting” means a mounting that can be removed without damaging any of the components to which it is mounted.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the filter bowl and the first end cap are adapted to a removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the filter bowl and the first end cap, respectively.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the first thread is provided in the main opening, and the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the first threads in the main opening are oriented radially outward, and the second threads are oriented radially inward.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment of the first type, the filter head and filter element are further adapted to be mounted by a bayonet-type connection system, wherein the filter head includes a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element includes a second part of the bayonet connection system.

[0019] Preferably, the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet-type connection when the filter element is rotated within the filter head in the same direction as the screw connection screws the filter bowl into the end cap.

[0020] In certain preferred embodiments, the first portion of the bayonet connection system includes radially inward-extending ribs, preferably terminating at a stopper surface, located on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head.

[0021] Preferably, the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors. Preferably, the second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by the lower rim of the set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of the end cap.

[0022] Preferably, the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and radial notches extend radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filtration medium.

[0023] Preferably, the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors that extend radially from the central end cap portion and include a circumferential side wall portion extending axially intermittently and including intermittent second threads.

[0024] In certain alternative embodiments, the first part of the bayonet connection system comprises a radially inwardly extending projection disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and the second part of the bayonet connection system comprises an opening in the side wall of the first end cap of the filter element adapted and arranged to engage with the projection.

[0025] Preferably, the first end cap comprises a plurality of fluid inlet openings in the axial end face of the first end cap, and its axial projection is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium.

[0026] In certain further alternative embodiments, the first part of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially arranged recess opening axially in the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors each including a section of the second thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially extending recess angularly separated from and alternating with the set of threaded sectors.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment of the first type, the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit type connection system, the filter head includes the first part of the snap-fit connection system, and the filter element includes the second part of the snap-fit connection system.

[0028] Preferably, the first end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors, wherein the second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system is embodied by the radially extending sectors of the end cap, which are adapted and positioned to be radially elastic.

[0029] Preferably, the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and radial notches extend radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filtration medium.

[0030] Preferably, the first end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include radially extending, primarily axially extending circumferential sidewall portions, each containing intermittent complementary threads, extending radially from the central end cap portion, and the axially extending sidewall portions are elastic when deformed radially outward.

[0031] Preferably, the circumferential sidewall portion, which extends mainly axially, extends slightly radially inward and is adapted to receive the upper rim of the filter bowl during installation, and the upper rim of the filter bowl is adapted to bias the circumferential sidewall portion, which extends mainly axially, to move radially outward during installation, for example, by extending axially. After the bowl is attached to the end cap and indirectly to the filter head, the end cap opens behind an undercut rim that embodies the first part of the snap-fit ​​connection, and the undercut rim is located on the inner surface of the filter head.

[0032] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, preferably, the first end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and includes a circumferential radial sealing member positioned around the outlet pipe.

[0033] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, the filter bowl preferably has an outer cylindrical surface and includes a radially oriented seal adapted to seal to the filter head when the filter bowl is fully connected to the filter head.

[0034] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, the fluid filter assembly is preferably adapted such that the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is less than the rotational force required to connect the filter bowl to the end cap.

[0035] In combination with any of the preferred embodiments, the fluid filter assembly is preferably adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter bowl from the end cap.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the second upright type, the assembly is: - A filter head corresponding to a second housing section, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, for receiving an incoming fluid flow and directing it toward a fluid filtration medium, and for receiving a fluid flow out from the filter element, - A filter element operably positioned within a filter head and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, - The first end cap is adapted to a connection to the filter head of the housing cover, which is adapted to a connection to the filter head of the housing cover, and is adapted to a removable mounting to the filter head and to a removable mounting to the housing cover, and preferably to seal. Includes.

[0037] Preferably, the housing cover and end cap are adapted for removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the housing cover and end cap, respectively.

[0038] Preferably, the first threads are provided on a cylindrical projection protruding from the inner surface of the housing cover, and the first end cap includes intermittent second threads provided along intermittent portions of the cylindrical projection protruding from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium.

[0039] Preferably, the first thread is oriented radially outward, and the second thread is oriented radially inward.

[0040] Preferably, the filter head and filter element are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet-type connection system, the filter head including a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element, preferably an end cap, including a second part of the bayonet connection system.

[0041] Preferably, the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors.

[0042] Preferably, the second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by a lower or upper rim of a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of the end cap, and the first portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by one or more bayonet mechanisms located on an inner surface, for example, the inner surface of the filter head.

[0043] A second aspect of the present disclosure discloses a fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium. The first end cap comprises a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors, including a section of threads, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of sectors.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the threads are oriented radially inward.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial notch extends from the circular outer circumference of the end cap toward the filter medium, and the axial projection of the notch remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending sectors extend radially from the central end cap portion and include intermittent axially extending circumferential sidewall portions containing threads.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, regularly distributed radially extending sectors include a first portion extending radially from a central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion toward the filter medium.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of the regularly distributed radially extending sectors, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (e.g., less than 10 mm).

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the first end cap has an inner surface having an axially extending ring-shaped cavity adapted to receive the first end of a fluid filtration medium, the ring-shaped cavity including an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer and inner ribs being concentrically arranged.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second thread, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 to 5 mm.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap has a ring-shaped bowl receiving cavity for receiving the upper rim of a given filter bowl, preferably having a complementary shape.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction around the outlet pipe.

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, the axial projection of the radial sealing member is located within the axial projection of the central end cap portion.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter element further includes a second closed end cap at the second end of the fluid filtration medium.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the fluid filter medium is a pleated filter medium arranged in a tubular configuration. Alternatively, the fluid filter medium or filtration medium may include a wound structure or nonwoven material arranged in a tubular configuration.

[0056] According to a preferred embodiment, the radially extending sector of the first end cap is adapted and arranged to be radially elastic.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include radially extending circumferential sidewall portions, each mainly axially extending, that extend radially from the central end cap portion and contain intermittent complementary threads, and the mainly axially extending sidewall portions also extend slightly radially inward as they move toward their respective distal free ends and are elastic when deformed or bent radially outward.

[0058] A third aspect of the present disclosure is disclosed, comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium; the first end cap having a side wall extending axially in the circumference, the side wall having an opening or recess adapted and positioned to connect with a projection located on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, the first end cap is provided with threads on the inner surface of its side wall.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the axial end face of the first end cap further comprises a plurality of fluid inlet openings, the axial projection thereof located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium.

[0061] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure discloses a fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filter medium; the end cap comprises a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings, angularly separated from and alternately arranged with the set of threaded sectors, and arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially distributed recess of a corresponding filter bowl.

[0062] A fifth aspect of this disclosure discloses an adapter for a fluid filter assembly, the fluid assembly being: a. A filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, b. A filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. The adapter is designed to fit a removable mounting to the filter head and to connect to the filter bowl, thereby connecting the filter bowl to the filter head.

[0063] A sixth aspect of this disclosure is a filter assembly, a. A filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element; b. A filter element operably positioned within a filter bowl and containing a fluid filtration medium; c. A filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element; d. Adapter according to any embodiment of the fifth aspect A filter assembly including the following is disclosed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0064] These and further aspects of the present disclosure will be described in more detail, for example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] [Figure 1] Figure 1A is a perspective view of a filter assembly according to a first preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 1B is a perspective view of the filter head used in conjunction with Figure 1A.

[0067] Figure 1C is a cross-sectional view of the filter head shown in Figure 1B.

[0068] [Figure 2] Figure 2A is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0069] Figure 2B is an exploded perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 2A.

[0070] Figure 2C is an exploded perspective view of the filter bowl and filter element from Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0071] Figure 3A is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0072] Figure 3B is an exploded perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 3A.

[0073] Figure 4A is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0074] Figure 4B is an exploded perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 4A.

[0075] Figure 5A is an exploded cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 1A during the assembly process.

[0076] Figure 5B is an exploded perspective view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 5A.

[0077] Figures 6A and 6B show exploded perspective views of a filter assembly according to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 7 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to a third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure during the assembly process.

[0079] Figure 8 shows the filter assembly from Figure 7 during the assembly process.

[0080] Figure 9 shows the filter assembly from Figure 7 during the assembly process.

[0081] Figure 10 shows the filter assembly from Figure 7 during the assembly process.

[0082] Figure 11 shows a partial perspective view of a filter assembly according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Figure 12 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the filter head used in the assembly shown in Figure 11.

[0084] Figure 13 shows a perspective view of a filter assembly according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0085] Figure 14 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0086] These diagrams do not indicate scale or proportion. Generally, identical components are shown with the same reference numerals in the diagrams.

[0087] Detailed description of preferred embodiments This disclosure describes specific embodiments, which are illustrative and not limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited by what is specifically shown and / or described, and that alternative or modified embodiments may be developed in light of the overall teachings of this disclosure. The drawings provided are schematic and non-limiting.

[0088] The use of the verbs "comprise," "to have," and "to be equipped with" and their respective conjugations does not exclude the existence of elements other than those listed. The use of the articles "a," "an," or "the" preceding an element does not exclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0089] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," etc., in the specification and claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily used to describe order in any way, whether temporal, spatial, ranking, or otherwise. Terms used in this way are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and it should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure described herein may operate in any order other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0090] Throughout this specification, any reference to “one embodiment” or “embodiment” means that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to an embodiment are included in one or more embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” appearing in various places throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, although they may. Furthermore, certain features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0091] Many of the drawings presented and discussed below specifically deal with embodiments of filter elements for filtering air, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0092] Figures 1 to 5 show a first preferred embodiment of the filter assembly 100 of the present disclosure. The left-hand design of Figure 1A shows the fully assembled assembly 100 ready for operation. The right-hand designs of Figures 1B and 1C show details of the filter head 3. In each of Figures 2 to 5, the left-hand design (Figures 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A) is a sectioned view of a portion of the assembly 100, and the right-hand design (Figures 2B, 3B, 4B, and 5B) is a three-dimensional view of the same assembly 100 in the same state. Figures 2 to 5 show a preferred method for mounting the filter cartridge 2.

[0093] The filter assembly 100 includes a filter bowl 1, a filter cartridge or filter element 2 disposed within the bowl 1, and a filter head 3 tightly connected to the filter bowl 1. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved by the filter element 2, preferably by the filter element alone. This results in a system where the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the filter element 2.

[0094] The filter bowl 1 includes an internal volume 16 and a main opening 10 for receiving a filter element or filter cartridge 2. The main opening 10 is located at the first axial end (or open axial end) of the filter bowl 1. The bowl 1 is provided with an upper rim 11 that restricts the main opening 10. Optionally, the filter bowl 1 is provided with a drain valve 13 at its closed axial end, located on the opposite side of the filter bowl 1. The filter bowl 1 further comprises an outer surface 12 and a circumferential seal 121 around the bowl 1 or the main opening 10. The circumferential seal 121 is provided at an appropriate location on the outer surface 12 of the bowl 1. The circumferential seal 12 is positioned to form a seal between the bowl 1 and the filter head when the bowl 1 is attached to the filter head 3 by the filter element 2.

[0095] The filter head 3 is adapted to receive a fluid flow entering, for example, through one or more inlets 35. The filter head is adapted to guide the fluid toward the fluid filtration medium 22 of the filter element, toward the so-called dirty side or unfiltered side of the filtration medium 22. During operation, the fluid is forced to pass through the filtration medium 22 toward the other side of the filtration medium 22, toward the so-called clean side or filtered side. The filter head 3 is further adapted to receive a fluid flow flowing out from the clean side of the filter element 2, for example, by an outlet pipe 37 to which the clean side of the filter element 2 is liquid-tightly coupled. The filter head 3 is further adapted to guide the outflowing fluid toward one or more outlets 36. The filtered fluid is supplied through the outlets 36 to the device that uses it. The filter head 3 does not have threads or screw connection means that can be directly coupled to the threads of the bowl 1.

[0096] The filter element 2 is operably positioned within the filter bowl 1 and includes a first end cap 20. The first end cap 20 is liquid-tightly connected to a first axial end 21 of a fluid filtration medium 22 (not shown in Figures 1-5). The first end cap 20 is preferably an open end cap. Typically, the filter element 2 also includes a second end cap 20B at a second axial end 21B, which is typically closed and liquid-tightly attaches to the second axial end 21B of the filtration medium 22. The filter or filtration medium 22 is preferably tubular and may be, for example, a tubular pleated medium.

[0097] The first end cap 20 is adapted for removable mounting to the filter bowl 1 by screw connections including first and second complementary threads (s1, s2) provided on the filter bowl 1 and the end cap 20 / filter element 2, respectively.

[0098] The first thread s1 is provided adjacent to or in contact with the main opening 10 of the bowl 1, and encircles it. The first thread s1 is complete. It is continuous and does not contain any interruptions. It is oriented radially outward.

[0099] The second thread 2 on the first end cap 20 is interrupted and incomplete. It is oriented radially inward.

[0100] The end cap 20 includes a set of regularly angularly distributed and angularly separated radially extending threaded sectors 25, each containing a section of a second thread s2. The sectors 25 are arranged alternately with a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches 23. The end cap 20 includes a central end cap portion 200 having, for example, a circular outer circumference. The regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25 extend radially from the central end cap portion 200 by a radially extending sector portion 250, and include intermittently axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 containing intermittent second threads s2. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are connected to the outer ends of the radially extending sector portions 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are arranged along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter bowl 1.

[0101] The filter bowl 1 has a cylindrical inner surface 14, and the radial notch 23 of the end cap 20 of the filter element 2 extends radially inward beyond its inner surface 14, thereby providing an inflow path P for the fluid to enter the bowl 1 and proceed toward the filtration medium 22.

[0102] The first end cap has an inner surface 201 (the inner surface of the first axial wall). The inner surface 201 may have an axially extending ring-shaped cavity 202 adapted to receive the first end 21 of the fluid filtration medium 22. The ring-shaped cavity 202 may include, for example, an outer circular rib or wall 2022 and an inner circular rib or wall 2021, which are arranged concentrically and separated by a distance, for example, slightly greater than the pleat height of the filtration medium 22.

[0103] The radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib 2022 and the second thread s2, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is preferably in the range of 3 to 5 mm.

[0104] Preferably, the end cap 20 has a ring-shaped bowl receiving cavity 203 for receiving the upper rim 11 of a given filter bowl 1, which preferably has a complementary shape.

[0105] The first end cap 20 is also adapted for a removable attachment to the filter head 3. In this embodiment, the filter head 3 and the filter element 2 are adapted to be attached by a bayonet-type connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second part of the bayonet connection system.

[0106] The second part of the bayonet connection system is embodied by the lower rim 2511 of the regularly distributed radially extending sectors 25 of the end cap 20 of the filter element, for example, by the distal end 2511 of the axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251.

[0107] The first part of the bayonet connection system includes corresponding radially inwardly extending ribs 31, which preferably terminate at their respective stopper surfaces 33. The ribs 21 are positioned on the cylindrical inner surface 30 of the filter head 3. The number of ribs 31 is preferably equal to the number of sectors 25. For each rib 31, there is a corresponding sector 25, which cooperate in a bayonet manner. The ribs 31 are positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter bowl 1. The corresponding ends of the ribs 31 are preferably provided with stopper surfaces 32 to restrict the bayonet rotational movement. The stopper surfaces 32 extend axially in the bowl 1, perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the ribs 31, toward the outlet 37 of the filter head 3. An opening is provided between adjacent ribs 31, allowing each sector 25 to pass axially when the end cap 20 (preferably already coupled to the bowl 1) is first inserted into the filter head 2 in a translational motion along the axis of the assembly 100, with the end cap 20 properly aligned with the ribs 31.

[0108] Preferably, the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet-type connection when the filter element 2 is rotated into the filter head 3 in the same direction as the filter bowl 1 is screwed into the end cap 20 by a screw connection.

[0109] Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C show the components of assembly 100 in a disassembled state.

[0110] Figures 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B show a preferred method for attaching the filter element 2 to the assembly 100. The filter 2 and filter end cap 20 are attached to the bowl 1 by screwing them in during the first stage, through the engagement of threads s2 and s1. In a preferred embodiment, the screw connection is not complete at this initial stage. For example, one thread may not be engaged. Alternatively, the screw connection may be completed at this stage.

[0111] The filter element 2 is then pushed upward into the filter head 3, with the sectors 25 of the end cap 20 of the filter element appropriately offset from the ribs 31 (without their axial projections overlapping). As a result, they can pass between each rib 31 by axial translational motion over the axial distance, so that the regularly distributed radially extending lower rims 2511 of the sectors 25 are positioned axially above the ribs 31. At this point, the outlet tube 29, positioned in the center of the end cap 20, is sealed against the outlet tube 37 of the filter head. For example, the outlet tube 29 is inserted into the outlet tube 37 and sealed radially outward against the outlet tube 37 by a seal 291 surrounding the outlet tube 29.

[0112] The filter element 2 can then be rotated relative to the filter head 2 around its longitudinal axis, so that the sector 25 (its lower rim 2511) engages with the upper surface of the rib 31, forming a bayonet connection or mounting. The rotational movement is preferably restricted in a predetermined manner by the stopper surface 32.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the bayonet coupling is adapted to cause compression of the seal 121 between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the seal 121 between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is not yet compressed or is not yet fully compressed (Figures 4A and 4B). The assembly can then be predetermined so that the filter bowl 1 is further screwed onto the end cap 20 of the filter element 2, completing the screw connection and allowing the seal 121 to be compressed (Figures 5A and 5B).

[0115] To replace the filter element, it is necessary to rotate the filter element 2 in the opposite direction around its longitudinal axis relative to the filter head 2 to disengage the bayonet coupling. The rotation in the opposite direction is performed so that the sector 25 of the end cap 20 of the filter element is again properly offset from the ribs 31 (their axial protrusions do not overlap), thereby allowing them to pass between the respective ribs 31 by axial translational motion.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, the filter assembly is adapted such that the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter bowl from the end cap. In practice, removal / replacement of the filter 2 is performed by manipulating / rotating the bowl 1 attached to it. In such an embodiment, it is possible to avoid the filter bowl 1 loosening from the filter element 2, i.e., the screw connection being released below the threshold force at which the bayonet coupling is released. Removing the filter bowl 1 from the filter element 2 first is not ruled out, but is less preferable for liquid filters because the filter element contains liquid, making it dirty and difficult to handle.

[0117] Optionally, the end cap 20 may be further provided with a locking mechanism 204. This locking mechanism 204 is preferably located on the outer circumference of the end cap 20 and is adapted to engage with a locking slot 15 provided on the upper rim 11 of the bowl 1 so as to allow relative rotation between the bowl 1 and the filter element 2 in only one rotational direction corresponding to the rotational direction for screwing into the bowl 1 (Figure 2C). Rotation of the bowl 1 in the opposite direction relative to the filter element 2 (while loosening the screw of the bowl 1) is blocked by the locking slot 15, either directly or after an initial angular range of relative rotation. This mechanism ensures that the filter element 2 remains securely attached to the bowl 1 and not to the filter head 3 when the bowl 1 is rotated to disengage the bayonet connection between the end cap 20 and the head 3. If the element remains attached to the head, the intended disengagement of the bayonet connection is prevented. To remove the filter element 2 from the bowl 1 in a subsequent step, the locking mechanism 204 can be lifted, for example, by manual operation or moved out of the slot. Preferably, the locking mechanism 204 is elastic or can be bent.

[0118] Figures 6A and 6B show a second preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, which discloses the use of an adapter 4 separate from the filter element 2 or the first end cap 20 of the filter element 2. This adapter 4 can be used to fit a standard filter element into a filter housing / assembly, as described in relation to the first preferred embodiment and first aspect of the present invention.

[0119] The filter assembly 100 includes a filter bowl 1, a filter cartridge or filter element 2 disposed within the bowl 1, an adapter 4, and a filter head 3 liquid-tightly connected to the filter bowl 1. The adapter 4 is contained within an internal volume defined by the filter head 3 and the filter bowl 1. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved by the adapter, preferably by the adapter alone. This results in a system where the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the adapter 4. The adapter 4 is adapted to be removablely mounted to the filter head 3 and to couple with the filter bowl 1, and is adapted to liquid-tightly connect the filter bowl 1 to the filter head 3. The adapter may or may not engage with the filter element 2. Preferably, the adapter 4 may include a central portion 200 (instead of a central end cap portion 200), which includes an (open) ring structure having a central opening through which the outlet tube 29 of a separate filter element 2 can pass to connect to the outlet tube 37 of the filter head 3. The features of the adapter 4 may be further identical to those of the end cap 20 described in any other embodiment without the adapter 4, in order to fit the corresponding filter assembly 100, and any combination of these features shall be deemed to be disclosed herein.

[0120] For example, the adapter 4 may include a set of regularly angularly distributed and angularly separated radially extending threaded sectors 25, each containing a section of a second thread s2. The sectors 25 are arranged alternately with a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches 23. The adapter 4 includes a central adapter portion such as an (open) ring structure 200. The regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25 extend radially from the central adapter portion 200 by radially extending sector portions 250 and have intermittently axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 containing intermittently extending second threads s2. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are connected to the outer ends of the radially extending sector portions 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 are arranged along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter bowl 1.

[0121] Optionally, the adapter 4 may be further provided with a locking mechanism 204. This locking mechanism 204 is preferably located on the outer circumference of the adapter 4 and is adapted to engage with a locking slot 15 provided on the upper rim 11 of the bowl 1, so as to allow relative rotation between the bowl 1 and the adapter 4 in only one rotational direction corresponding to the rotational direction for screwing into the bowl 1. Rotation of the bowl 1 in the opposite direction relative to the adapter 4 (while loosening the screw of the bowl 1) is blocked by the locking slot 15, either directly or after an initial angular range of relative rotation. This mechanism ensures that the adapter 4 remains securely attached to the bowl 1 and not the filter head 3 when the bowl 1 is rotated to disengage the bayonet coupling between the adapter 4 and the head 3. To remove the adapter 4 from the bowl 1 in a subsequent step, the locking mechanism 204 can be lifted or moved out of the slot, for example, by manual operation. Preferably, the locking mechanism 204 is elastic or bendable.

[0122] Figures 7 to 10 show a third preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, which is very similar to the first preferred embodiment described in relation to Figures 1 to 5, except that the filter head 3 and filter element 2 are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first part of the snap-fit ​​connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second part of the snap-fit ​​connection system. The outlet pipe 37 of the filter head 3 is shown schematicly only and is assumed to be open.

[0123] Similar to the first preferred embodiment, the end cap 20 includes a centrally located outlet tube 29 and a radially outward-facing seal 291 surrounding it. The end cap 20 includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25 extending radially from a central end cap portion 200, each containing a section of a second thread s2, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches 23 alternating with the set of sectors 25. The second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system is embodied by the radially extending sectors 25 of the end cap 20, which are adapted and positioned to be at least partially elastic in the radial direction. Preferably, the radially extending threaded sectors include each primarily axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 containing intermittent second threads s2, which are elastic when deformed radially outward.

[0124] The filter bowl 1 has a cylindrical inner surface 14 and an end cap 20 with a radial notch 23 extending radially inward beyond the inner surface 14, thereby providing an inflow path P for the fluid to enter the bowl 1 and proceed toward the filtration medium 22.

[0125] Preferably, the circumferential sidewall portion 251, which extends mainly axially, extends slightly radially inward and is adapted to receive the upper rim 11 of the filter bowl 1 during installation. The upper rim 11 of the filter bowl 1 is adapted to bias the circumferential sidewall portion 251, which extends mainly axially, to move outward, for example, to extend axially during installation. After the bowl 1 is attached to the end cap 2 and indirectly to the filter head 3, the end cap 20 opens behind an undercut rim 34 that embodies the first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection. The undercut rim 34 is located on the inner surface 30 of the filter head 3.

[0126] In the third preferred embodiment, the filter element 2 is first connected to the filter head 3 by the snap-fit ​​type connection described above (Figure 7), thereby bending the circumferential sidewall portion 251 which extends mainly axially and snapping it first behind one or more undercut rims 34. Next, the filter bowl 1 is screwed onto the filter 2 / end cap 20, attaching the filter bowl 1 and the filter element 2 by a screw connection, thereby finally attaching the filter element 2 to the filter head 3 and the filter bowl 1 to the filter head 3 in a liquid-tight manner (Figure 8).

[0127] Removal of the filter element 2 or the filter element-bowl composite system from the filter head 3 is performed in a manner similar to that described for bayonet-type disengagement in relation to the first preferred embodiment. In this case, the undercut rim 34 corresponds to the rib 31. The undercut rim 34 may further have one or more inclined / chamfered surfaces 38, which can guide the elastic axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 to an angular position where, preferably when exposed to rotational force, the filter element 2 or the filter element-bowl composite system can be removed by axial tensile force without being obstructed by the undercut rim 34 (Figures 9 and 10).

[0128] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate a filter assembly 100 according to a fourth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure in a schematic manner, showing only some characteristic mechanisms. This embodiment is also based on a bayonet-type connection between the filter element 2 and the filter head 3, but the end cap mechanism of the bayonet coupling is separated from the radially extending sectors 25. The end cap 20 has a central outlet tube 29 having a seal 291 directed radially outward. This comprises a central end cap portion 200. From the central end cap portion 200 is provided a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25. Each sector 25 includes a section of thread s2. The regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25 extend radially from the central adapter portion 200 by a radially extending sector portion 250 and have intermittently axially extending circumferential sidewall portions 251 including intermittently second threads s2. The second thread s2 is oriented radially inward. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 is connected to the outer end of each radially extending sector portion 250. The axially extending circumferential sidewall portion 251 is positioned along a cylindrical surface having an axis aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly 100 and / or the longitudinal axis of the filter bowl 1.

[0129] The regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25 are angularly separated from a regularly angularly distributed set of mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings 28, and are arranged alternately with them. The regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings 28 also extend radially from the central end cap portion 200.

[0130] The bayonet lip or wing 28 is positioned and fitted to be received in at least one circumferentially positioned recess 33 of the corresponding filter head 3. The recess may be located, for example, on the inner surface 30 of the filter bowl 1 and oriented so that its opening faces the upper end of the filter head 3. One or more recesses 33 may have one or more inclined / chamfered surfaces 38, which can guide the bayonet lip 28 to an angular position where, preferably when subjected to rotational force, axial tensile force can detach the filter element 2 or the filter element-bowl composite system from the head 3 without being obstructed by the recess 33.

[0131] Figure 13 shows a filter assembly 100 according to a fifth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, which is also based on a bayonet-type connection between a filter element 2 and a filter head 3. The end cap 20 comprises a central outlet tube 29 having a seal 291 directed radially outward. Here, a first portion of the bayonet connection system comprises a radially inward-extending projection (not shown) located on the cylindrical inner surface 30 of the filter head 3. A second portion of the bayonet connection system comprises an opening or recess 261 in the side wall 26 of the first end cap 20 of the filter element 2, which is fitted and positioned to couple with these projections on the filter head 3. The inner surface of the side wall 26 comprises intermittent threads s2 for screw connection to the corresponding first threads 1 of the filter bowl 1.

[0132] The end cap 20 further comprises a plurality of fluid inlet openings 271 on the axial end face 27 of the first end cap 2, and its axial projection is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium 22.

[0133] Here again, the filter assembly 100 includes a filter bowl 1, a filter element 2 disposed within the bowl 1, and a filter head 3 (not shown) liquid-tightly connected to the filter bowl 1. The connection between the filter bowl 1 and the filter head 3 is achieved by the filter element 2, preferably by the filter element alone. This results in a system where the bowl 1 cannot be connected to the filter head 3 without the filter element 2.

[0134] Figure 14 shows a filter assembly according to a sixth preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. While the previously described preferred embodiments were of a suspended type, the sixth preferred embodiment is an upright bowl / cartridge assembly.

[0135] The fluid filter assembly 100 includes a filter head 3 having an internal volume 300 and a main opening 301 for receiving a filter element 2. The filter head 3 is adapted to receive the fluid flow flowing in from the inlet 35 and direct it to the fluid filtration medium 22, and to receive the fluid flow flowing out from the filter element 2 and direct this outflow flow to the outlet 36. The assembly includes a housing cover 1B complementary to the filter head 3.

[0136] The filter element 2 includes a first end cap 20 operably positioned within the filter head 3 and connected to a first end 21 of the fluid filtration medium 22. The first end cap 20 is preferably a closed end cap. Alternatively, the first end cap 20 may be an open end cap in the sense that it has one or more openings or (radially inward) notches in a region of the end cap located radially outward from the region of the end cap 20 defined by the axial projection of the filter medium 22 on the end cap 20. In the latter case, the end cap 20 may further have a central opening for receiving a bypass valve in a region of the end cap 20 located radially within the projection of the axial projection of the filter medium 22 on the end cap 20 (a bypass valve may also be provided). The second end 21B of the filter medium 22 is provided with a second open end cap 20B having a seal 291B for sealing toward, for example, the outlet 36.

[0137] The assembly includes a housing cover 1B. The first end cap 20 is fitted to the connection between the housing cover 1B and the filter head 3 so as to be fitted to a removable mounting to the filter head 3 and to a removable mounting to the housing cover 1B, and preferably to seal.

[0138] The housing cover 1B and end cap 20 are adapted for removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads (s1, s2) provided on the housing cover 1B and end cap 20, respectively. Filter cover seals 1Bs are provided between the housing cover 1B and the filter head 3.

[0139] The first thread s1 is provided on a cylindrical projection that protrudes from the inner surface of the housing cover 1B. The first end cap 20 is provided with intermittent second threads s2 along the intermittent portion of the cylindrical projection that protrudes from the end cap 20 in a direction away from the filter medium 22.

[0140] The first thread s1 is oriented radially outward, and the second complementary thread s2 is oriented radially inward.

[0141] The filter head 3 and the filter element 2 are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet-type connection system. The filter head 3 includes a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element 2 includes a second part of the bayonet connection system.

[0142] Similar to the previous embodiment, the end cap 20 may include a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors 25, each containing a section of a second thread s2, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches 23 (not visible in Figure 14) alternating with the set of threaded sectors 25. The sectors 25 can engage with a bayonet mechanism 39, schematically shown, appropriately positioned on the inner wall 302 of the filter head 3.

[0143] The second part of the bayonet connection system includes a lower or upper rim of the end cap 1, which is a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors 25.

[0144] It should be noted that not all of the specific features described herein are required to be incorporated into a configuration having several selected advantages in accordance with this disclosure.

[0145] manner For example, the following embodiments can be claimed: 1. A fluid filter assembly, - A filter housing for accommodating a replaceable filter element, - A filter element operably disposed within a filter housing and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium. Includes; A fluid filter assembly comprising a filter housing including a first housing section and a second housing section; and a first end cap adapted to the connection between the first housing section and the second housing section, to be detachably mounted to the first housing section and to be detachably mounted to the second housing section, and preferably to seal. 2. A fluid filter assembly according to Embodiment 1, - A filter bowl corresponding to a first housing portion, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, - A filter element operably positioned within a filter bowl and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, - A filter head corresponding to a second housing section for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. Includes, A fluid filter assembly in which the first end cap is adapted to a removable mounting to the filter head and to a removable mounting to the filter bowl, and preferably to seal the connection of the filter bowl to the filter head. 3. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 2, wherein the filter bowl and end cap are adapted for a removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the filter bowl and end cap, respectively. 4. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 3, wherein a first thread is provided in the main opening and the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread. 5. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 3 or 4, wherein the first thread in the main opening is oriented radially outward and the second thread is oriented radially inward. 6. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 5, wherein the filter head and filter element are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet-type connection system, the filter head includes a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element includes a second part of the bayonet connection system. 7. The fluid filter assembly according to aspects 6 and 3, wherein the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet-type connection when the filter element is rotated within the filter head in the same direction as the filter bowl is screwed into the end cap by a threaded connection. 8. A fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the first portion of the bayonet connection system includes radially inward-extending ribs, preferably terminating at a stopper surface, located on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head. 9. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 6 to 8, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors, and the second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by the lower rim of the set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of the end cap. 10. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 9, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial notch extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filter medium. 11. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 9 or 10, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include a circumferentially extending circumferentially extending axially, radially extending portion with intermittent second threads, extending radially from the central end cap portion. 12. A fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein a first portion of the bayonet connection system comprises a radially inward projection positioned on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and a second portion of the bayonet connection system comprises an opening in the side wall of a first end cap of a filter element, which is fitted and positioned to connect with the projection. 13. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 12, further comprising a plurality of fluid inlet openings on the axial end face of the first end cap, wherein the axial projection thereof is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium. 14. A fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 6 or 7, wherein the first part of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially arranged recess that opens axially and is located on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings that are angularly separated from the set of threaded sectors and arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially extending recess that is alternately arranged with them. 15. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 5, wherein the filter head and filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system, the filter head includes a first part of the snap-fit ​​connection system, and the filter element includes a second part of the snap-fit ​​connection system. 16. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 15, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors, and the second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system is embodied by the radially extending sectors of the end cap, which are adapted and positioned to be radially elastic. 17. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 16, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial notch extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filter medium. 18. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include each primarily axially extending circumferential sidewall portion that extends radially from the central end cap portion and includes intermittent complementary threads, the axially extending sidewall portion being elastic when deformed radially outward. 19. A fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 18, wherein a circumferential sidewall portion, mainly extending axially, extends slightly radially inward and is adapted to receive the upper rim of the filter bowl during installation, the upper rim of the filter bowl is adapted to extend axially, biasing the circumferential sidewall portion, mainly extending axially, during installation, and after the bowl is attached to the end cap and indirectly to the filter head, the end cap opens behind an undercut rim that embodies a first portion of a snap-fit ​​connection, the undercut rim is located on the inner surface of the filter head. 20. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 19, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and a circumferential radial sealing member disposed around the outlet pipe. 21. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 20, wherein the filter bowl has an outer cylindrical surface and includes a radially oriented seal adapted to seal to the filter head when the filter bowl is fully connected to the filter head. 22. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 21, wherein the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is adapted to be less than the rotational force required to connect the filter bowl to the end cap. 23. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 2 to 22, wherein the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is less than the rotational force required to remove the filter bowl from the end cap. 24. A suspended fluid filter assembly according to any of the above-described embodiments. 25. A fluid filter assembly according to Embodiment 1, - A filter head corresponding to a second housing section, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, for receiving an incoming fluid flow and directing it toward a fluid filtration medium, and for receiving a fluid flow out from the filter element, - A filter element operably positioned within a filter head and having a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, - A housing cover corresponding to the first housing portion, which is adapted to the connection of the housing cover to the filter head, such that the first end cap is adapted to a removable mounting to the filter head and to a removable mounting to the housing cover, and preferably to a sealing A fluid filter assembly, including the fluid filter assembly. 26. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 25, wherein the housing cover and end cap are adapted for a removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the housing cover and end cap, respectively. 27. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 26, wherein a first thread is provided on a cylindrical projection protruding from the inner surface of the housing cover, and the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread provided along an intermittent portion of the cylindrical projection protruding from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium. 28. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 26 or 27, wherein the first thread is oriented radially outward and the second thread is oriented radially inward. 29. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 25 to 28, wherein the filter head and filter element are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet connection system, the filter head includes a first part of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element includes a second part of the bayonet connection system. 30. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 25 to 29, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors. 31. The fluid filter assembly according to embodiment 30, wherein a second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by a lower or upper rim of a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of an end cap, and a first portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by one or more bayonet mechanisms positioned on the inner surface of the filter head. 32. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 25 to 31, which is of the upright type. 33. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, wherein the first end cap comprises a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors, each including a section of threads, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of sectors. 34. The fluid filter element according to embodiment 33, wherein the threads are oriented radially inward. 35. A fluid filter element according to embodiment 33 or 34, wherein a radial notch extends from the circular outer circumference of the end cap toward the filter medium, and the axial projection of the notch remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium. 36. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 35, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending sectors include circumferential sidewall portions that extend radially from the central end cap portion and are intermittently axially extending and include threads. 37. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 36, wherein the regularly distributed radially extending sectors include a first portion extending radially from a central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion toward the filter medium. 38. A fluid filter element according to embodiment 37, wherein the radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of regularly distributed radially extending sectors, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (and less than 10 mm). 39. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 38, wherein the first end cap has an inner surface having an axially extending ring-shaped cavity adapted to receive the first end of a fluid filter medium, the ring-shaped cavity having an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer rib and the inner rib being arranged concentrically. 40. A fluid filter element according to embodiment 39, wherein the radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second thread, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 to 5 mm. 41. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 40, wherein the end cap has a ring-shaped bowl receiving cavity for receiving the upper rim of a given filter bowl, preferably having a complementary shape thereof. 42. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 41, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction around the outlet pipe. 43. The fluid filter element according to embodiment 42, wherein the axial projection of the radial sealing member is located within the axial projection of the central end cap portion. 44. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 43, wherein the filter element further includes a second closed end cap at the second end of the fluid filtration medium. 45. A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 44, wherein the fluid filter medium is a pleated filter medium arranged in a tubular configuration. 46. ​​A fluid filter element according to any one of embodiments 33 to 45, wherein a radially extending sector of the first end cap is adapted and arranged to be radially elastic. 47. A fluid filter element according to embodiment 46, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include each mainly axially extending circumferential sidewall portion that extends radially from the central end cap portion and includes intermittent complementary threads, the mainly axially extending sidewall portions also extending slightly radially inward as they move toward their respective distal free ends and being elastic when deformed or bent radially outward. 48. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, wherein the first end cap has a side wall extending axially in the circumferential direction, the side wall having an opening or recess fitted and positioned to connect with a projection located on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl. 49. A fluid filter element according to embodiment 48, wherein the inner surface of the side wall is provided with screw threads. 50. The fluid filter element according to embodiment 48 or 49, wherein the axial end face of the first end cap further comprises a plurality of fluid inlet openings, and the axial projection thereof is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium. 51. The filter element according to embodiment 33 or 34, wherein the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread provided along an intermittent portion of a cylindrical projection that protrudes from the end cap away from the filter medium. 52. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, wherein the end cap comprises a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings, angularly separated from and alternately arranged with the set of threaded sectors, and arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially distributed recess of a corresponding filter bowl. 53. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, wherein the fluid assembly is a. A filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, b. A filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, which includes an adapter that is fitted for a removable mounting to a filter head and coupled to a filter bowl, and is adapted to connect the filter bowl to the filter head. 54. A filter assembly, a. A filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element; b. A filter element operably positioned within a filter bowl and containing a fluid filtration medium; c. A filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the outgoing fluid flow from the filter element; d. Adapter described in aspect 53 A filter assembly, including the filter assembly. [Table 1-1] [Table 1-2]

Claims

1. A fluid filter assembly, - A filter housing for accommodating a replaceable filter element, - A filter element operably disposed within the filter housing and having a first end cap connected to the first end of the fluid filtration medium. Including; A fluid filter assembly comprising a filter housing including a first housing portion and a second housing portion; the first end cap is adapted to the connection between the first housing portion and the second housing portion to be fitted for a removable mounting to the first housing portion and to be fitted for a removable mounting to the second housing portion and to seal.

2. A fluid filter assembly according to claim 1, - A filter bowl corresponding to the first housing portion, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing the filter element, - The filter element is operably disposed within the filter bowl and comprises a first end cap connected to the first end of the fluid filtration medium, - A filter head corresponding to the second housing portion for receiving the incoming fluid flow and guiding it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the fluid flow out of the filter element. Includes, The fluid filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein the first end cap is adapted to a removable mounting to the filter head and to a removable mounting to the filter bowl and to seal the connection of the filter bowl to the filter head.

3. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 2, wherein the filter bowl and the end cap are adapted to a removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the filter bowl and the end cap, respectively.

4. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 3, wherein a first thread is provided in the main opening, and the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread.

5. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the first thread in the main opening is directed radially outward and the second thread is directed radially inward.

6. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet connection system, the filter head includes a first portion of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element includes a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

7. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 6 or 3, wherein the bayonet connection system is adapted to provide a bayonet-type connection when the filter element is rotated within the filter head in the same direction as the screw connection screws the filter bowl into the end cap.

8. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first portion of the bayonet connection system includes radially inward-extending ribs, which terminate at a stopper surface and are positioned on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head.

9. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each including a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors, and the second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by the lower rim of the set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of the end cap.

10. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 9, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial notch extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filtration medium.

11. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the end cap includes the central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include a circumferentially extending circumferentially extending axially, radially extending portion that includes a second intermittent thread, and extending radially from the central end cap portion.

12. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first portion of the bayonet connection system comprises a radially inward projection disposed on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and the second portion of the bayonet connection system comprises the opening in the side wall of the first end cap of the filter element, which is fitted and positioned to connect with the projection.

13. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 12, further comprising a plurality of fluid inlet openings on the axial end face of the first end cap, wherein the axial projection thereof is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium.

14. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first portion of the bayonet connection system includes at least one circumferentially arranged recess that opens axially and is located on the cylindrical inner surface of the filter head, and the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings that are angularly separated from the set of threaded sectors and arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially extending recess that is alternately arranged with them.

15. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be attached by a snap-fit ​​connection system, the filter head includes a first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system, and the filter element includes a second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system.

16. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 15, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radially extending notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors, the second portion of the snap-fit ​​connection system being embodied by the radially extending sectors of the end cap, which are adapted and arranged to be radially elastic.

17. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 16, wherein the filter bowl has a cylindrical inner surface, and a radial notch extends radially inward beyond the inner surface, thereby providing an inflow path for fluid to enter the bowl and proceed toward the filtration medium.

18. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the end cap includes the central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include each mainly axially extending circumferential sidewall portion that extends radially from the central end cap portion and includes intermittent complementary threads, and the axially extending sidewall portion is elastic when deformed radially outward.

19. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 18, wherein the circumferential sidewall portion, which is mainly axially extending, extends slightly radially inward and is fitted to receive the upper rim of the filter bowl during installation, the upper rim of the filter bowl is fitted to extend axially by biasing the circumferential sidewall portion, which is mainly axially extending during installation, and after the bowl is attached to the end cap and indirectly to the filter head, the end cap opens behind an undercut rim that embodies the first portion of the snap-fit ​​connection, the undercut rim is located on the inner surface of the filter head.

20. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 19, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and a circumferential radial sealing member disposed around the outlet pipe.

21. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 20, wherein the filter bowl has an outer cylindrical surface and includes a radially oriented seal adapted to seal to the filter head when the filter bowl is fully connected to the filter head.

22. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 21, wherein the rotational force required to attach the end cap to the filter head is adapted to be less than the rotational force required to connect the filter bowl to the end cap.

23. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the rotational force required to remove the end cap from the filter head is adapted to be less than the rotational force required to remove the filter bowl from the end cap.

24. A suspended type fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 23.

25. A fluid filter assembly according to claim 1, - A filter head corresponding to the second housing portion, having an internal volume and a main opening for housing the filter element, for receiving an incoming fluid flow and guiding it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving a fluid flow out of the filter element, - The filter element is operably disposed within the filter head and includes a first end cap connected to the first end of the fluid filtration medium, - The housing cover, corresponding to the first housing portion, is adapted to the connection of the housing cover to the filter head, so that the first end cap is adapted to a removable mounting to the filter head and to a removable mounting to the housing cover, and to seal. A fluid filter assembly according to claim 1, comprising:

26. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 25, wherein the housing cover and the end cap are adapted for a removable mounting by screw connections including first and second complementary threads provided on the housing cover and the end cap, respectively.

27. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 26, wherein a first thread is provided on a cylindrical projection protruding from the inner surface of the housing cover, and the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread provided along an intermittent portion of the cylindrical projection protruding from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium.

28. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the first thread is oriented radially outward and the second thread is oriented radially inward.

29. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the filter head and the filter element are adapted to be mounted by a bayonet connection system, the filter head includes a first portion of the bayonet connection system, and the filter element includes a second portion of the bayonet connection system.

30. The fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the end cap includes a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each including a section of a second thread, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of threaded sectors.

31. The fluid filter assembly according to claim 30, wherein a second portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by a lower or upper rim of the set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors of the end cap, and a first portion of the bayonet connection system is embodied by one or more bayonet mechanisms disposed on the inner surface of the filter head.

32. A fluid filter assembly according to any one of claims 25 to 31, which is of the upright type.

33. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filtration medium, wherein the first end cap comprises a set of regularly distributed radially extending sectors, each including a threaded section, and a set of regularly distributed radial notches alternating with the set of sectors.

34. The fluid filter element according to claim 33, wherein the threads are oriented radially inward.

35. The fluid filter element according to claim 33 or 34, wherein a radial notch extends from the circular outer circumference of the end cap toward the filter medium, and the axial projection of the notch remains outside the axial projection of the filter medium.

36. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending sectors include circumferential sidewall portions that extend radially from the central end cap portion and intermittently axially extending, including threads.

37. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the regularly distributed radially extending sectors include a first portion extending radially from the central end cap portion and a second portion extending axially from the outer end of the first portion toward the filter medium.

38. The fluid filter element according to claim 37, wherein the radial distance between the central end cap portion and the second portion of the regularly distributed radially extending sectors, measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is at least 5 mm (and less than 10 mm).

39. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 38, wherein the first end cap has an inner surface having an axially extending ring-shaped cavity adapted to receive the first end of the fluid filter medium, the ring-shaped cavity having an outer circular rib and an inner circular rib, the outer rib and the inner rib being arranged concentrically.

40. The fluid filter element according to claim 39, wherein the radial distance between the outer surface of the outer circular rib and the second thread, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, is in the range of 3 to 5 mm.

41. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 40, wherein the end cap has a ring-shaped bowl receiving cavity for receiving the upper rim of a predetermined filter bowl having a complementary shape.

42. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 41, wherein the end cap further includes an outlet pipe that is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the filter medium, and a radial sealing member in the circumferential direction around the outlet pipe.

43. The fluid filter element according to claim 42, wherein the axial projection of the radial sealing member is located within the axial projection of the central end cap portion.

44. A fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 43, wherein the filter element further includes a second closed end cap at the second end of the fluid filtration medium.

45. A fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 44, wherein the fluid filter medium is a pleated filter medium arranged in a tubular configuration.

46. The fluid filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 45, wherein the radially extending sector of the first end cap is adapted and arranged to be radially elastic.

47. The fluid filter element according to claim 46, wherein the end cap includes a central end cap portion, and the regularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors include each mainly axially extending circumferential sidewall portion that extends radially from the central end cap portion and includes intermittent complementary threads, and the mainly axially extending sidewall portions also extend slightly radially inward as they move toward their respective distal free ends and are elastic when deformed or bent radially outward.

48. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filter medium, wherein the first end cap has a side wall extending in the axial direction of the circumference, and the side wall has an opening or recess fitted and positioned to connect with a projection located on the inner wall of a corresponding filter bowl.

49. The fluid filter element according to claim 48, wherein the inner surface of the side wall is provided with screw threads.

50. The fluid filter element according to claim 48 or 49, wherein the axial end face of the first end cap further comprises a plurality of fluid inlet openings, and the axial projection thereof is located outside the axial projection of the fluid filtration medium.

51. The filter element according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the first end cap includes an intermittent second thread provided along an intermittent portion of a cylindrical projection that protrudes from the end cap in a direction away from the filter medium.

52. A fluid filter element comprising a first end cap connected to a first end of a fluid filter medium, wherein the end cap comprises a set of regularly angularly distributed radially extending threaded sectors, each containing a section of thread, and a set of regularly angularly distributed, mainly radially extending bayonet lips or wings, angularly separated from and alternately arranged with the set of threaded sectors, and arranged and adapted to be received in at least one circumferentially distributed recess of a corresponding filter bowl.

53. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, wherein the fluid assembly is a. A filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing a filter element, b. A filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and guiding it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the fluid flow out of the filter element. An adapter for a fluid filter assembly, comprising: the adapter being adapted for a removable mounting to the filter head and coupled with the filter bowl, and adapted to connect the filter bowl to the filter head.

54. A filter assembly, a. The filter bowl having an internal volume and a main opening for housing the filter element; b. The filter element, which is operably disposed within the filter bowl and contains the fluid filtration medium; c. The filter head for receiving the incoming fluid flow and directing it toward the fluid filtration medium, and for receiving the fluid flow out of the filter element; d. Adapter according to claim 53 A filter assembly, including the filter assembly.

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