Liquid filter configuration and usage method

Abstract

The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge having a filter medium and a first end cap for holding an axially positioned sealing member; an end configuration sized to engage with the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing member; and an anti-rotation configuration constructed and positioned to prevent the filter cartridge and cover configuration from rotating relative to each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [Cross - reference to Related Applications] This application was filed as a PCT international application on April 12, 2024, and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 459,464, filed on April 14, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 459,480, filed on April 14, 2023, the entireties of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] [Technical Field] The present disclosure generally relates to liquid filters and methods. Exemplary embodiments described include, for example, bowl - cartridge assemblies and in - tank filter assemblies for use in an oil or hydraulic system.

Background Art

[0003] Liquid filters are used in various applications, including, for example, hydraulic systems, fuel systems, and engine lubrication systems.

[0004] Generally, concern exists for liquid filters that house downstream components. In particular, concern exists for preventing cavitation of pumps and other equipment downstream of the liquid filter. Depending on conditions such as cold start, flow surges, or blocked elements, downstream components can be damaged.

[0005] Ongoing improvements are desired.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, a filter assembly is provided that includes (a) a filter element having a filter medium, (b) an end configuration removably positioned over the filter element, (c) a first abutment member and a second abutment member that can abut when the assembly is in a first state and abutment is prevented when the assembly is in a second state, and (d) a transition configuration that enables transition of the assembly between the first state and the second state.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment:

[0008] - The first contact member includes a radially flexible member.

[0009] - The first contact member includes an axially rigid member.

[0010] - The transition configuration is mechanically associated with the filter element.

[0011] - The first contact member includes a spiral spring and / or a leaf spring and / or a clock spring.

[0012] - The first contact member is a leaf spring shaped to form a partial enclosure.

[0013] - The transition configuration includes a sloped section on the filter element.

[0014] - The filter element has a first end and an opposing second end, and the inclined configuration protrudes radially from the first end.

[0015] - The inclined configuration is configured to adjust the radially flexible member radially when pressed against the inclined configuration in the direction from the first end to the second end.

[0016] - The first state includes the radially flexible member having a first outermost dimension, and the second state includes the radially flexible member having a second outermost dimension, wherein the first outermost dimension is smaller than the second outermost dimension.

[0017] - The first state includes the radially flexible member having a first outermost dimension, and the second state includes the radially flexible member having a second outermost dimension, wherein the first outermost dimension is greater than the second outermost dimension.

[0018] - The first contact member is connected to the end configuration.

[0019] - The end configuration is one of the filter head or the cover.

[0020] - The transition configuration adjusts the first abutting member radially to prevent the first abutting member from abutting against the second abutting member.

[0021] - The second abutting member is part of a housing configuration sized to receive a filter element.

[0022] - The housing configuration includes a strainer configuration having an open interior, which is constructed and arranged to receive a filter element.

[0023] - The strainer configuration has a first end cap, and the first end cap includes the second abutting member.

[0024] - The housing configuration includes a filter bowl having an open interior, which is constructed and arranged to receive a filter element.

[0025] - The first abutting member is connected to the end configuration.

[0026] In one aspect, a filter assembly is provided that includes (a) an end configuration, (b) a first abutting member within the filter assembly movable radially, and (c) a filter cartridge including (i) a tubular media pack defining an open media interior and having a first end and an opposing second end, (ii) a central longitudinal axis located at the center within the tubular media pack and passing through the first end and the second end, and (iii) a displacement member sized and positioned to engage the first abutting member and move the first abutting member radially when the filter cartridge is connected to the end configuration.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment:

[0028] - The displacement member includes an inclined configuration.

[0029] - The displacement member includes a living hinge that pivots with respect to the first abutting member.

[0030] - The inclined configuration includes an inclined surface that forms an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis that is non-zero and non-perpendicular.

[0031] - The inclined surface forms an angle of 5 to 80 degrees.

[0032] - The inclined surface forms an angle of 15 to 70 degrees.

[0033] - The inclined surface forms an angle of approximately 20 to 30 degrees.

[0034] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack, and the inclined surface is an integral part of the first end cap.

[0035] - The first end cap has an outer diameter surface that defines the inclined surface.

[0036] - The inclined surface has a free tip end and a rear end.

[0037] - The free tip end projects axially towards the filter head away from the rest of the filter cartridge, and the rear end is along the outer periphery of the first end cap.

[0038] - The end configuration includes a filter head and a cover configuration, and the filter head has (a) an open interior and a wall surrounding the fluid channel, and (b) a first fastening configuration along the wall, the wall having opposing first and second ends, each of the first and second ends being open, the first fastening configuration.

[0039] - The cover configuration is sized to be removably positioned inside the filter head, and the cover configuration includes (i) a central hub surrounding a fluid conduit communicating with the fluid channel of the filter head, and (ii) a second fastening configuration constructed and positioned to be removably connected to a first fastening configuration, wherein when the cover configuration is positioned over the first cartridge, a displacement member moves the first contact member radially, allowing the second fastening configuration of the cover configuration to connect to the first fastening configuration of the filter head.

[0040] - The end configuration includes a filter head, which comprises (a) a wall enclosing an open interior and fluid channel, and (b) a first fastening configuration along the wall, the wall having opposing first and second ends, the second end being open and sized to connect to a filter bowl.

[0041] - The end configuration further includes a filter bowl having an open interior, the open interior being constructed and positioned to receive a filter element, and the filter bowl having a second fastening configuration that is detachably connected to a first fastening configuration.

[0042] - The filter cartridge includes a sealing member positioned to form a seal together with the end configuration, and the first end cap has an outer axial surface that holds the sealing member.

[0043] - The first end cap is an open end cap.

[0044] - The filter cartridge further includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the tubular media pack.

[0045] - The second end cap is a closed end cap.

[0046] --The second end cap is an open end cap.

[0047] - The tubular media pack is an inner tubular media pack, and the filter cartridge further includes an outer tubular media pack that is radially spaced away from the inner tubular media pack and surrounds the inner tubular media pack.

[0048] - The inner tubular media pack contains a pleated media, and the outer tubular media pack contains a pleated media.

[0049] - The outer tubular media pack has a first end and an opposing second end, and the first end cap is fixed to the first end of the outer tubular media pack.

[0050] - The inner tubular media pack has an axial length greater than the axial length of the outer tubular media pack, and the first end of the inner tubular media pack is closer to the cover configuration than the first end of the outer tubular media pack.

[0051] - The filter cartridge further includes an outer liner surrounding an outer tubular media pack, the outer liner extending between a first end cap and an opposing second end cap.

[0052] - The first contact member is fixed to the end configuration.

[0053] - The first contact member surrounds the central hub in the end configuration.

[0054] - The first contact member comprises a spring that is axially rigid and radially flexible, which moves radially in response to the force applied to the spring by the displacement member.

[0055] - The first contact member includes a leaf spring that moves radially when engaged with the inclined surface and when not in contact with the inclined surface.

[0056] - The end configuration includes a cover configuration having multiple posts protruding from the central hub, and the spring is slidably mounted on the multiple posts.

[0057] - The end configuration includes a filter head with a surrounding wall, with a plurality of posts protruding from the surrounding wall into the interior of the filter head, and a spring is slidably attached to the plurality of posts.

[0058] - The cover configuration includes (a) a closed cover member having an outer radial surface defining a second fastening configuration; (b) a sealing ring positioned axially away from the cover member, holding a radially oriented sealing member positioned to form a seal with the filter head; (c) a sealing ring having a first axial surface and an opposing second axial surface, the first axial surface facing the cover member; and (d) a central hub extending from the second axial surface.

[0059] - The outer diameter of the central hub is 50-80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring.

[0060] - The sealing member oriented radially in the sealing ring faces outward.

[0061] - The first and second fastening components are screw threads.

[0062] - The first contact member is radially movable between the innermost position and the outermost position, the innermost position having dimension D1 and the outermost position having dimension D2, and the ratio of D1:D2 is 0.74 to 0.98.

[0063] In one embodiment, a filter cartridge is provided, comprising: (a) a tubular medium pack defining the interior of an open medium, the tubular medium pack having a first end and an opposing second end; a central longitudinal axis located in the center of the tubular medium pack and passing through the first end and the second end; and a displacement configuration fixed to the medium pack and including at least one engaging projection having a leading edge and a trailing edge.

[0064] In an exemplary embodiment:

[0065] - The leading edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the trailing edge.

[0066] - The trailing edge is closer to the central longitudinal axis than the leading edge.

[0067] - The displacement configuration includes multiple engaging protrusions.

[0068] - The tubular media pack is cylindrical.

[0069] - At least one straight line extending between the leading and trailing edges of one or more engaging projections forms a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle with respect to the longitudinal axis.

[0070] - The straight line extending between the leading and trailing edges forms one of the following angles: 5–80 degrees, 15–70 degrees, or 20–30 degrees.

[0071] - At least one or more engaging projections are straight.

[0072] - At least one or more engaging projections are not straight.

[0073] - There is only one engaging projection that forms a radially continuous surface.

[0074] - The radially continuous surface of the engaging projection surrounds the media pack.

[0075] - At least one or more engaging projections are provided with an inclined portion.

[0076] - The inclined section will have one of the following angles: 5-80 degrees, 15-70 degrees, or 20-30 degrees.

[0077] - The inclined section will have one of the following angles: 100-175 degrees, 105-165 degrees, or 150-160 degrees.

[0078] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack, and at least one or more engaging projections are integral parts of the first end cap.

[0079] - The first end cap has an outer radial surface that defines at least one or more engaging projections.

[0080] - The filter cartridge includes a sealing member positioned to form a seal together with the cover configuration, and the first end cap has an outer axial surface that holds the sealing member.

[0081] - The first end cap is an open end cap.

[0082] - The filter cartridge further includes a second end cap fixed to the second end of the tubular media pack.

[0083] - The filter cartridge further includes an outer liner surrounding a tubular media pack, the outer liner extending between a first end cap and an opposing second end cap.

[0084] - The displacement configuration extends to the distal end, having a stepped cross-sectional profile that defines at least one radially oriented plane and at least one axially oriented plane.

[0085] - At least one radially oriented surface is an outward-facing radial surface.

[0086] - At least one radially oriented surface is an inward-facing radial surface.

[0087] - A stepped section profile includes a single step.

[0088] - A stepped section profile includes multiple steps.

[0089] - The distal end further includes an axial extension that is radially inserted from the stepped cross-sectional profile.

[0090] In one embodiment, a method for maintaining a filter assembly, the filter assembly comprising an end configuration and a filter cartridge, the method comprising (a) moving an end configuration having a first contact member relative to a displacement member to move the first contact member radially, and (b) sealing the end configuration with the filter cartridge.

[0091] An example method is:

[0092] - The step of moving the first contact member relative to the displacement member includes the step of moving the first contact member relative to the inclined configuration.

[0093] - The step of moving the first contact member relative to the displacement member includes the step of moving the first contact member relative to the living hinge.

[0094] - The filter cartridge has a first end cap, and the step of moving the first contact member relative to the displacement member includes the step of moving the first contact member relative to the displacement member which is an integral part of the first end cap.

[0095] - The step of moving the first contact member radially includes the step of moving the first contact member radially outward.

[0096] - The step of moving the first contact member radially includes the step of moving the first contact member radially inward.

[0097] - The step of moving the first contact member radially includes the step of moving a spring that is rigid in the axial direction and flexible in the radial direction.

[0098] - The step of moving the end configuration includes the step of moving the cover configuration that holds the first contact member.

[0099] - The step of moving the end configuration includes the step of moving the filter head that holds the first contact member.

[0100] In one embodiment, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) a filter cartridge having a filter medium and a first end cap for holding an axially disposed sealing member; (b) an end configuration that engages with the filter cartridge and is sized to form a seal with the sealing member; and (c) an anti-rotation configuration constructed and arranged to prevent the filter cartridge and cover configuration from rotating relative to each other.

[0101] In an exemplary embodiment:

[0102] - The end configuration includes a cover.

[0103] - The cover is removably received inside the filter head.

[0104] - The end configuration includes a filter head.

[0105] - The anti-rotation configuration includes a projection and a receiving configuration.

[0106] - The projection and receiving configuration are positioned to provide less support to the sealing member than full radial support.

[0107] - The sealing member is supported along at least several locations along the radial side surface of the sealing member, either on the inside or outside of the sealing member, or both the inside and outside.

[0108] - The anti-rotation configuration includes a first assembly on the filter cartridge and a second assembly on the end configuration.

[0109] - The first assembly of the anti-rotation configuration includes (a) an outer ring having projections and receiving portions surrounding a sealing member, (b) each projection within the outer ring defining a closed area, (c) each receiving portion within the outer ring defining an open area, and (d) the ratio of the open area to the closed area being 0.2 to 1.

[0110] - The second assembly of the anti-rotation configuration includes (a) a first hub ring having projections and receiving parts, (b) each projection in the first hub ring defining a closed area, (c) each receiving part in the first hub ring defining an open area, and (d) the ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the first hub ring is 1 to 1.3.

[0111] - The first assembly of the anti-rotation configuration on the filter cartridge includes an inner ring having a projection and a receiving portion radially inward of the sealing member, such that the sealing member is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring.

[0112] - The second assembly of the anti-rotation configuration on the end configuration includes a second hub ring having a projection and a receiving portion radially inward of the first hub ring, and when the end configuration is engaged with the filter cartridge, the sealing member is located between the first hub ring and the second hub ring.

[0113] - The filter cartridge includes cartridge threads, and the end configuration includes end configuration threads positioned to rotatably engage with the cartridge threads.

[0114] - The first and second assemblies of the anti-rotation configuration are positioned to engage before the cartridge threads and end configuration threads engage.

[0115] - The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of a pleated medium that surrounds the inside of the open filter and extends between a first end cap and a second end cap, the first end cap having an opening that communicates with the inside of the open filter.

[0116] In one embodiment, a filter assembly is provided, comprising: (a) an end configuration including an end configuration comprising a hub having (i) a peripheral wall surrounding an opening, (ii) a peripheral wall having an end axial surface, and (iii) an outer hub ring having projections arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction; and (b) a filter cartridge having a filter medium and an end cap configuration for holding a sealing member, wherein the end cap configuration is nested with the outer hub ring to fix the filter cartridge and the end configuration in the rotational direction.

[0117] In an exemplary embodiment:

[0118] - The end cap configuration of the filter cartridge includes a hub outer ring with circumferentially spaced projections and a nested outer ring projection configuration, the outer ring projection configuration of the filter cartridge positioned to support the sealing member radially.

[0119] - The hub further includes an inner hub ring having projections spaced circumferentially, the inner hub ring being radially spaced from the outer hub ring and surrounded by the outer hub ring.

[0120] - The end cap configuration of the filter cartridge includes an inner ring projection configuration, which is radially inward of the outer ring projection configuration and spaced apart from the outer ring projection configuration, and the sealing member is located between the outer ring projection configuration and the inner ring projection configuration.

[0121] - The outer ring protrusion configuration on the filter cartridge comprises multiple outer cogs spaced apart in the circumferential direction, and the inner ring protrusion configuration on the filter cartridge comprises multiple inner cogs spaced apart in the circumferential direction, the outer cogs are sized to nest between the outer ring protrusions of the hub, and the inner cogs are sized to nest between the inner ring protrusions of the hub.

[0122] - The number of projections on the outer ring of the hub differs from the number of spaced-out outer cogs on the filter cartridge.

[0123] - The number of projections on the outer ring of the hub is less than the number of spaced-out outer cogs on the filter cartridge.

[0124] - The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the hub differs from the number of spaced-out inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

[0125] - The number of protrusions on the inner ring of the hub is less than the number of spaced-out inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

[0126] - The number of projections on the outer hub ring is equal to the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge, and the number of projections on the inner hub ring is equal to the number of spaced inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

[0127] - The number of projections on the outer hub ring is equal to the number of projections on the inner hub ring.

[0128] - The number of protrusions on the outer ring of the hub is different from the number of protrusions on the inner ring of the hub.

[0129] - The number of spaced outer cog on the filter cartridge is equal to the number of spaced inner cog on the filter cartridge.

[0130] - The number of spaced outer cog on the filter cartridge is different from the number of spaced inner cog on the filter cartridge.

[0131] - The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of a pleated medium that surrounds the inside of the open filter and extends between the first end cap and the second end cap, and the end cap configuration is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap.

[0132] - The first end cap has an opening that communicates with the inside of the open filter, and the end cap configuration is located on the axial portion of the first end cap and surrounds the opening, and the opening of the hub communicates with the opening of the first end cap and the inside of the open filter.

[0133] - A housing for removably holding a filter cartridge, comprising a housing having a threaded portion, and an end component having a threaded portion positioned to connect to the housing threaded portion.

[0134] - There is a distance D1 between the starting position of the housing thread and the tip of the end of the protruding component, and a distance D2 between the starting position of the end component thread and the tip of the end of the projection, with distance D1 being greater than distance D2.

[0135] In another embodiment, a filter cartridge is provided, comprising: (a) a tubular media pack defining the interior of an open medium, having a first end and an opposing second end; (b) a central longitudinal axis located in the center of the tubular media pack and passing through the first end and the second end; (c) an end configuration fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack; (d) a sealing member fixed to the axial portion of the end configuration in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis; and (e) an anti-rotation configuration for minimizing twisting of the sealing element when the filter cartridge is fixed to either a filter cover or a filter head.

[0136] In the examples:

[0137] - The anti-rotation configuration is fixed to the end configuration or is integrated with the end configuration.

[0138] - The anti-rotation configuration is located on the axial portion of the end configuration adjacent to the sealing member.

[0139] - The anti-rotation configuration includes a plurality of protrusions located between the sealing member and the outer circumference of the end configuration.

[0140] - Multiple protrusions are separated by receiving portions located on an outer ring surrounding the sealing member.

[0141] - Each projection within the outer ring defines a closed area, and each receiving portion within the outer ring defines an open area, with the ratio of the open area to the closed area being 0.2 to 1.0.

[0142] - The end configuration further includes a series of circumferentially spaced projections on the inside, separated by a receiving portion located on the inner ring, the inner ring being radially inward of the outer ring and spaced apart from the outer ring, and the sealing member being located between the outer ring and the inner ring.

[0143] - Each projection within the inner ring defines a closed area, and each receiving portion within the inner ring defines an open area, with the ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the inner ring being 0.2 to 1.0.

[0144] - The end configuration includes a first end cap fixed to the first end of the media pack, the first end cap having a first axial surface oriented away from the media pack and a second axial surface oriented toward the media pack, and the outer ring, inner ring, and sealing member are located on the first axial surface.

[0145] - The first end cap has an open opening that communicates with the inside of the open medium.

[0146] - The inner ring is positioned radially away from the opening and surrounds the opening.

[0147] - The outer ring runs along the outer edge of the first end cap.

[0148] - The number of projections in the outer ring, which has spaced projections, is equal to the number of projections in the inner ring.

[0149] - The number of projections in the outer ring, which have spaced projections, is different from the number of projections in the inner ring.

[0150] - Each projection on the outer ring has the same shape as each projection on the inner ring.

[0151] - Each projection on the outer ring has a different shape from each projection on the inner ring.

[0152] - Each of the protrusions on the outer ring has a triangular shape.

[0153] - Each of the protrusions on the inner ring has a triangular shape.

[0154] In another embodiment, a method is provided for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end configuration, the filter end configuration being either a filter head or a filter cover, the filter assembly including a filter cartridge removably mounted within a housing, the filter cartridge having a plurality of cartridge projections and receptacles positioned to engage with the filter end configuration, the filter end configuration having a plurality of end configuration projections and receptacles positioned to engage with the filter cartridge, the method including the steps of: positioning the cartridge projections to be at least partially receptive within the receptacles of the end configuration to allow the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end configuration; engaging threads on the housing with threads on the end configuration after the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration; and rotating the housing relative to the end configuration to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration.

[0155] In an exemplary method, (a) the filter cartridge includes a sealing member mounted axially adjacent to the cartridge projection and the receiving portion, and (b) the step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end configuration includes the step of radially supporting the sealing member between the cartridge projection and the end configuration projection.

[0156] In one example, the filter cartridge is a tubular media pack defining the inside of an open medium, and may include: a tubular media pack having a first end and an opposing second end; a central longitudinal axis located in the center of the tubular media pack and passing through the first and second ends; an end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack; a sealing member fixed to the axial portion of the end cap; and a first plurality of projections extending axially from the end cap, arranged in a circumferential direction and located close to the radial side surface of the sealing member.

[0157] In some examples, the first set of protrusions surrounds the sealing member.

[0158] In some examples, the first set of protrusions are surrounded by a sealing member.

[0159] In some examples, the first set of protrusions extends axially beyond the sealing member.

[0160] In some examples, each of the protrusions of the first set of protrusions has a similar shape.

[0161] In some examples, the first set of protrusions includes one or more protrusions that are different from one or more other protrusions.

[0162] In some examples, the first set of projections may have one of the following shapes: triangular, trapezoidal, rectangular with flat, rounded, or pointed ends, and curved.

[0163] In some examples, the first set of protrusions have a symmetrical shape.

[0164] In some examples, the first set of protrusions have an asymmetrical shape.

[0165] In some examples, the first set of projections are separated by the first set of interceptor gaps.

[0166] In some examples, each of the receptive gaps of the first set of receptive gaps has a similar shape.

[0167] In some examples, the first set of receptor gaps includes one or more receptor gaps that are different from one or more other receptor gaps.

[0168] In some examples, each of the projections of the first plurality of projections has a similar shape, and each of the inter-receptor gaps of the first plurality of receptor gaps has a similar shape.

[0169] In some examples, the circumferential arrangement includes a second set of protrusions arranged in the circumferential direction.

[0170] In some examples, the first set of protrusions surrounds the sealing member, and the sealing member surrounds the second set of protrusions.

[0171] In some examples, the vertices of the first set of protrusions are radially aligned with the vertices of the second set of protrusions.

[0172] In some examples, the vertices of the first set of protrusions are not radially aligned with the vertices of the second set of protrusions.

[0173] In some examples, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions have a shape similar to that of the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0174] In some examples, the protrusions of the first set of protrusions have a different shape from the protrusions of the second set of protrusions.

[0175] One exemplary method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end configuration, wherein the filter end configuration is either a filter head or a filter cover, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted within a housing, the filter cartridge having an axially mounted sealing member, and the filter end configuration having a plurality of end configuration projections positioned to engage with the filter cartridge, the method may include the steps of: positioning the filter cartridge so that the sealing member is at least partially received within the end configuration projections, thereby enabling the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end configuration; engaging threads on the housing with threads on the end configuration after the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration; and rotating the housing relative to the end configuration to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration so that the end configuration projections radially support the sides of the sealing member of the filter cartridge. In some examples, the configuration includes a plurality of end configuration receiving portions, the filter cartridge includes a plurality of filter cartridge projections, and the step of positioning the filter cartridge includes positioning the filter cartridge so that the plurality of filter cartridge projections are received by the end configuration receiving portions.

[0176] Various examples of desirable product features or methods are some described below, some will become apparent from the description, and some can be learned by practicing various aspects of this disclosure. The aspects of this disclosure may relate to individual features and combinations of features. It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the claimed invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0177] [Figure 1] This is a cross-sectional view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, which includes a filter cartridge operably mounted within a filter bowl and connected to a filter head, the cross-section of which is taken along line AA in Figure 2. [Figure 1A] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter cartridge shown in Figure 1. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top view of the filter assembly. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 1, with the filter cartridge not yet installed inside. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a magnified view of a part of the filter assembly. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a liquid filter assembly constructed in accordance with the principles of this disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the filter cartridge used in the assembly. [Figure 8] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge. [Figure 9] This is a magnified view of the filter cartridge shown in Figure 8. [Figure 9A] This is a perspective cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a filter cartridge having an inclined surface as a separate component from the rest of the cartridge end cap. [Figure 10] Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view of the top of the filter cartridge. [Figure 11] This is a magnified perspective view of a portion of Figure 10. [Figure 12] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the filter assembly. [Figure 13] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the housing for the liquid filter assembly. [Figure 14] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the housing. [Figure 14A] This is a magnified view of a portion of Figure 14. [Figure 15] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of the cover used in the filter assembly. [Figure 16] Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the cover. [Figure 17] This is a cross-sectional view of one stage of the cover shown in Figure 15, which is placed on the filter cartridge shown in Figure 7. [Figure 18] Figure 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the cover. [Figure 19] This is a magnified perspective view of a portion of Figure 18. [Figure 20] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the engagement between the filter cover and the filter element. [Figure 21] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 20 at another engagement stage. [Figure 22] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the filter assembly, where no filter elements are installed internally. [Figure 23] Figure 22 is a top cross-sectional view of the assembly. [Figure 24] Figure 22 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly at one assembly step, where the filter elements are movably positioned inside. [Figure 25] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter assembly in Figure 24 during another assembly step. [Figure 26] Figure 25 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly. [Figure 27] Figures 25 and 26 are schematic cross-sectional views of the filter assembly in its complete state. [Figure 28] Figure 27 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly. [Figure 29] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the filter assembly in a certain assembly step. [Figure 30] Figure 29 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly. [Figure 31] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment shown in Figure 29 during another assembly step. [Figure 32] Figure 31 is a top cross-sectional view of the filter assembly. [Figure 33] Figure 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the embodiment, showing a filter assembly in which the filter elements are not installed in an operable manner. [Figure 34]This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the filter assembly according to the present disclosure, which includes a filter cartridge that is operably mounted (fully assembled) within a filter bowl and connected to a filter head. [Figure 35] Figure 34 is a front view of a portion of the filter assembly in one step of connecting the filter cartridge and bowl to the filter head. [Figure 36] Figure 35 is a perspective view of the filter assembly. [Figure 37] Figure 36 is a perspective view of the filter assembly in its fully assembled state. [Figure 38] Figures 34 to 17 are perspective views of the filter cartridges used in the filter assemblies. [Figure 39] Figures 34 to 17 show perspective views of the filter heads used in the filter assemblies. [Figure 40] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of the filter assembly according to the present disclosure, which includes a tank having a filter head and a removable cover, and a filter cartridge (not shown) operably mounted within the tank and connected to the filter head and cover. [Figure 41] Figure 40 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the filter assembly, showing the filter cartridge which is operably mounted inside the tank and connected to the filter head and cover. [Figure 42] Figure 41 is a magnified view of a part of the filter assembly. [Figure 43] Figure 40 is a perspective view of a portion of the filter cartridge and filter cover during one assembly step. [Figure 44] This is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a filter assembly in one step of connecting the assembly to a filter head or cover. [Figure 45] This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a filter assembly in one step of connecting the assembly to a filter head or cover. [Figure 46] This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a filter assembly in one step of connecting the assembly to a filter head or cover. [Figure 47] The following are partial diagrams of alternatively configured displacement configurations and extensions that can be used with any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 48] The following are partial diagrams of alternatively configured displacement configurations and extensions that can be used with any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 49] The following are partial diagrams of alternatively configured displacement configurations and extensions that can be used with any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 50] The following are partial diagrams of alternatively configured displacement configurations and extensions that can be used with any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 51] This is a schematic plan view showing the geometric aspects of the projection-receiving configuration for the filter assembly disclosed herein. [Figure 52] This is a schematic plan view showing the geometric aspects of the projection-receiving configuration for the filter assembly disclosed herein. [Figure 53] This is a schematic plan view showing further geometric aspects of the projection-receiving configuration for the filter assembly disclosed herein. [Figure 54] This is a schematic plan view showing further geometric aspects of the projection-receiving configuration for the filter assembly disclosed herein. [Figure 55] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 56] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 57] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 58] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 59]This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 60] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 61] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 62] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 63] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 64] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 65] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Figure 66] This is a schematic plan view of a projection-receiving configuration usable in any of the filter assemblies disclosed herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0178] Overview of an exemplary filter assembly, Figures 1 and 5 Figures 1 and 5 show two different liquid filter configurations or assemblies 20. These assemblies 20 are constructed and used differently in different filtration systems (as will be described further), but common reference numerals are used for common parts.

[0179] The liquid filter assembly 20 includes a serviceable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or cartridge 34 (Figures 1 and 6-10) operably positioned therein. The filter element or cartridge 34 has a first end 82 and an opposing second end 84.

[0180] The end configuration 21 is removably positioned on top of the filter element 34. As used herein, “end configuration 21” may include either the filter head 24 or the top or cover 28. In the assembly 20 of Figure 5, the filter head 24 includes a cover 28 that is removably positioned on top of it, whereas in the assembly 20 of Figure 1, the filter head 24 does not have a removable cover. In a typical liquid filter assembly, the filter head 24 is a cast member made from, for example, cast aluminum or other material. In the assembly 20 of Figure 5, the cover 28 is secured to the filter head 24 by a threaded connection 48 and the maintenance opening is closed by a sealing member 50.

[0181] The assembly 20 may further include a housing 22 having side walls 30. When in use, the side walls 30 extend from the filter head 24 (hanging downwards). Generally, the housing 22 defines an internal volume 32 (Figures 4 and 14) within which selected internal components, as defined, are included, and specific filtration and flow operations are performed.

[0182] In this specification, “top,” “upper,” and “down” mean the assembly 20 in its normal orientation, i.e., the orientation shown in Figures 1 and 5. These terms are not, in themselves, meant to be limiting or to have further definitions.

[0183] A typical maintainable filter cartridge 34 further includes an end cap configuration 36 at the first end 82, as described below, the end cap configuration 36 can be embodied as a top or first end cap 38, providing a preferred mounting and sealing of the maintainable filter cartridge 34 to the filter head 24 in the liquid filter assembly 20. The second end 84 of the filter cartridge 34 includes a second end cap 39.

[0184] Generally, a maintainable filter cartridge 34 includes a first (upper in use) end cap 38. In the particular embodiment shown, the first end cap 38 is attached to the end (upper in use) of the filter cartridge 34. The first end cap 38 includes an end cap portion 52, which may be, for example, a molded member fixed (i.e., filled) to the filter cartridge 34. The end cap portion 52 includes a central opening 54 for liquid to pass into or out of the end configuration 21.

[0185] The end cap 38 can be molded from various moldable plastic materials, such as polyamide (PA). For example, glass-filled polyamide (filled with 15-30% by weight of glass) can be used. It can also be formed as a metal piece.

[0186] The filter cartridge 34 includes a filter medium 56, which is sometimes referred to herein as a “medium pack 56”. This medium 56 may also be a pleated medium 58 contained within a pleated mesh or similar structure, the pleats extending between opposing first end caps 38 and second end caps 39.

[0187] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the media pack 56 is substantially tubular and encloses an open volume. The tubular media pack 56 is shown as cylindrical. The central longitudinal axis 90 is located in the center of the media pack 56 and passes through the first end 82 and the second end 84 of the element 34.

[0188] The typical operation of the assembly 20 in Figure 1 is generally as follows: The filter head 24 includes a fluid inlet channel 40 that receives contaminated fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows into the filter head 24 and then into an unfiltered liquid volume 23, which is the volume between the side wall 30 and the filter medium 56. From there, the fluid passes through the filter medium 56 (referred to herein as the “filtered flow”), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. This fluid flows into a filtered liquid volume 25 located inside the medium pack 56. From there, the filtered liquid flows into the filter head 24 through the opening 54 of the first end cap 38. It exits the filter head 24 through the outlet channel 27. The “forward flow” operation (outside to inside) has been described above. In some cases, the assembly 20 can also operate in a “reverse flow” operation, where the flow is from inside to outside.

[0189] The typical operation of the assembly 20 in Figure 5 generally follows this: The filter head 24 generally includes a body 26 having fluid channels 40, 42. Fluid channel 40 is typically an inlet 40 or inlet configuration. Fluid channel 42 is a bypass channel. The liquid to be filtered flows towards the inlet configuration 40. The unfiltered liquid then flows into the unfiltered liquid volume 44 inside the filter cartridge 34. Generally, volume 44 is the “unfiltered liquid volume” because the liquid received into it is generally received directly from the circulation loop, is unfiltered, and requires filtration. In normal operation, from the unfiltered liquid volume 44, the liquid passes through the filter cartridge 34 and is sent to the filtered volume 46 surrounding the filter cartridge 34 (filtered flow). From the filtered volume 46, the liquid flows through the filter cartridge 34 into the tank housing the cartridge 34. Although alternatives are possible, it should be noted that the assembly in Figure 5 does not include a central standpipe protruding into the cartridge 34.

[0190] In Figure 1, the second end cap 39 is closed. Generally, the second end cap 39 can be either closed or open. In Figure 6, the sealing member 59 abuts against the outer radial surface of the second end cap 39 and, together with the side wall 30 of the housing 22, forms an outward radial seal.

[0191] In some assemblies, it may be desirable to provide a downstream outer liner 60 (Figure 6), such as a porous metal or plastic liner, on the filter cartridge 34. In the forward-flow assembly shown in Figure 1, the downstream liner 29 is an inner liner 29 that surrounds the filtered liquid volume 25 inside the media pack 56.

[0192] In Figure 1, the filter element 34 includes a sealing member 31. The sealing member 31 is radially oriented to form a seal with a portion of the filter head 24. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 31 is held by a seal holder projection 33 that extends axially from a first end cap 38 toward the filter head 24, away from the filter medium pack 56. The sealing member 31 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 23 and the filtered liquid volume 25. The sealing member 31 is radially positioned between the radial positions of the upstream and downstream tips of the pleated medium 58.

[0193] In Figure 7, the filter element 34 includes a sealing member 92 fixed to the axial portion 94 of the end cap configuration 36 in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 90. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the sealing member 92 is positioned on the axial portion 94 of the first end cap 38. As shown in Figure 9, the axial portion 94 supporting the sealing member 92 is positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. However, the axial portion 94 may have a frustoconical shape that is inclined at an angle toward or away from the longitudinal axis, such that the axial portion is positioned at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis.

[0194] In some embodiments, an optional anti-rotation configuration 98 may exist, as shown in Figures 7, 10, and 11. The anti-rotation configuration 98 is provided to minimize or prevent twisting of the sealing member 92 when the filter element 34 is fixed to the filter cover 28. The anti-rotation configuration 98 will be described further below.

[0195] Overview of the installation method, Figure 12 Figure 12 is a schematic diagram providing an overview of how the filter cartridge 34 is installed inside the housing 22 for each of the assemblies shown in Figures 1 and 5.

[0196] The assembly 20 includes a first contact member 62 and a second contact member 63. The first contact member 62 and the second contact member 63 can contact each other at their respective engaging surfaces / regions 62a, 63a (Figures 3, 4, 16, and 22) when the assembly 20 is in a first state, and are prevented from contacting each other when the assembly 20 is in a second state.

[0197] The assembly 20 further includes a transition configuration 64, which enables the transition of the assembly 20 between a first state and a second state.

[0198] Generally, the first state prevents the end component 21 from fully connecting to the rest of the assembly 20, such as the filter head 24 or housing 22. The second state allows for a full connection between the end component 21 and the rest of the assembly. "Fully connected," in the case of screw engagements, means that the threads are tightened sufficiently to ensure that all sealing members are in place and form a seal in the intended location.

[0199] While many embodiments are possible, the first contact member 62 includes a radially flexible member 66. In Figure 12, the radially flexible member is shown by a dashed line as moving radially along arrow 68. In a preferred implementation, the first contact member 62 is axially rigid. "Axially rigid" means that the first contact member 62 is rigid along a direction perpendicular to the plane containing the radial flexibility direction and does not move under normal compressive or tensile forces. "Normal" compressive or tensile forces mean forces that are not extreme enough to damage or break the first contact member 62.

[0200] The first state includes a radially flexible member 66 having a first outermost dimension, and the second state includes a radially flexible member 66 having a second outermost dimension. In some examples, the first outermost dimension is smaller than the second outermost dimension. In other examples, the first outermost dimension is larger than the second outermost dimension.

[0201] In some implementations, the radially flexible member 66 includes a spring 70 that is radially flexible and axially rigid. Many embodiments may include spiral springs, or leaf springs, or clock springs, or leaf springs curved to form only a partial (incomplete) loop, or tension coils.

[0202] In some exemplary embodiments, when at rest (when no force is applied), the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is at its first smaller outermost dimension. In other embodiments, when at rest (when no force is applied), the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is at its second larger outermost dimension.

[0203] The radially flexible member 66 is an integral part of the assembly 20. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the radially flexible member 66 is connected to an end configuration 21 which may include a filter head 24 or a cover 28. It is assumed that the radially flexible member 66 may similarly be connected to other parts of the assembly 20.

[0204] The transition configuration 64 is mechanically associated with the filter element 34. For example, the transition configuration 64 includes a displacement configuration or member 72 fixed to the media pack 56. In some embodiments, the transition configuration 64 may be a separate component independent of the filter element 34.

[0205] Exemplary embodiments of the displacement configuration 72 are shown in Figures 1A and 9. The displacement configuration 72 includes an engaging projection 74 having a leading edge 76 and a trailing edge 78. In the example in Figure 1A, the trailing edge 78 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 (Figure 1) than the leading edge 76. In the example in Figure 9, the leading edge 76 is closer to the central longitudinal axis 90 than the trailing edge 78.

[0206] The engaging projection 74 may be either a radially continuous surface or a radially discontinuous surface. In the example shown in Figure 1A, the engaging projection 74 is radially continuous. The engaging projection 74 may also include at least one gap, and possibly more gaps. In the example in Figure 9, the engaging projection 74 is continuous and uninterrupted along the circumference.

[0207] The engaging projection 74 may be straight or have other shapes (curved, irregular, etc.). In the example in Figure 9, the engaging projection 74 is shown as straight and forms an inclined portion 80 (or inclined configuration 80) on the filter element 34. The inclined portion 80 projects radially from the first end 82 of the filter element 34. In the example in Figure 1, the engaging projection 74 is straight and forms a straight inclined configuration 80 on the filter element 34. In some examples, the engaging projection 74 is not straight and forms a curved inclined configuration 80 on the filter element 34. In Figure 1, the inclined configuration 80 projects radially from the first end 82 of the filter element, and the leading edge 76 projects onto or above the end face of the first end cap 38.

[0208] In Figure 1, the radially flexible member 66 slides against the inclined configuration 80, moving the radially flexible member 66 to a radially inward position. If the radially flexible member 66 is a spring 70 and is arranged as shown in Figure 1, the spring 70 moves radially inward when it engages with the inclined configuration 80, and when it is no longer in contact with the inclined configuration 80, the spring 70 returns to its resting position and moves radially outward (Figure 4).

[0209] In Figures 6 and 17, the radially flexible member 66 slides against the inclined portion 80, moving the radially flexible member 66 to a radially outward position. If the radially flexible member 66 is a spring 70 and is arranged as shown in Figures 6 and 17, the spring 70 moves radially outward when it engages with the inclined portion 80, and when it is no longer in contact with the inclined portion 80, it returns to its resting position and moves radially inward.

[0210] The inclined portion 80 has an inclined surface 86 that makes an angle measured along the surface between its endpoints at a non-zero and non-perpendicular angle 88 (Figures 1A and 9) with respect to the longitudinal axis 90 and a line 90a parallel to the longitudinal axis 90. In Figure 1A, the inclined surface 86 makes an angle of 5 degrees or more, ensuring that the spring 70 is displaced radially inward enough to ensure that the filter head 24 can move to engage with the housing 22. The inclined surface 86 makes an angle of 80 degrees or less, ensuring that the spring 70 is displaced radially. Typically, the inclined surface 86 makes an angle 88 between 5 and 80 degrees. Often, the angle 88 is between 15 and 75 degrees. Preferably, the angle 88 is between 30 and 40 degrees.

[0211] In Figure 9, the inclined surface 86 has an angle of at least 5 degrees 88, ensuring that the spring 70 is displaced radially enough to ensure that the cover 28 can move to engage with the housing 22. The inclined surface 86 has an angle of 88 of 80 degrees or less, ensuring that the spring 70 is displaced radially. In a preferred configuration, the inclined surface 86 has an angle 88 of 5 to 80 degrees, preferably about 15 to 70 degrees, and typically about 20 to 30 degrees.

[0212] In a preferred configuration, the inclined surface 86 is an integral part of the first end cap configuration 36. As shown in Figures 1 and 9, the inclined surface 86 is part of the first end cap 38. Therefore, when the first end cap 38 is molded, the inclined surface 86 may be a part molded together with the rest of the first end cap 38. In Figure 9A, the inclined surface 86 is a separate part 86a from the rest of the end cap 38a. This separate part 86a may be fitted or snapped onto the end cap 38a.

[0213] Figures 1 and 5 show a filter assembly 20 with the filter element 34 precisely positioned within the housing 22 and the end configuration 21 attached and connected (screw-connected) to the rest of the assembly. Figures 17 and 25-28 show the steps of attaching the cover 28 to the filter element 34. In Figures 17 and 25-28, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 engages with the inclined surface 86 and is displaced radially outward from a smaller dimension to a larger dimension. This radial displacement of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 allows the cover 28 to move axially toward the element 34 and penetrate deeply into the filter head 24 (Figures 6 and 27), thereby allowing the screw connection 48 between the head 24 and the cover 28 to engage. In Figure 1, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 engages with the inclined surface 86 and is displaced radially inward from a larger dimension to a smaller dimension. This radial displacement of the spring 70, which is radially flexible and axially rigid, allows the filter head 24 to move axially toward the housing 22, thereby enabling the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the housing 22 to engage.

[0214] If the filter element 34 does not include an inclined surface 86 of the appropriate shape, or if there is no element in the assembly 20, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 does not displace radially, and the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 comes into contact with the second contact member 63. This contact prevents the end configuration 21 from moving deeper into the screw connection portion 48.

[0215] For example, in Figures 3 and 4, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 abuts against an inwardly projecting shelf or ledge 35 extending radially inward from the side wall 30 of the housing 22, preventing the filter head 24 from moving further toward the housing 22 and preventing screw engagement 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. This will be explained in more detail below in connection with the description of Figures 1 to 4.

[0216] In the examples shown in Figures 13, 14, 14A, and 22, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 abuts against an extension 141 extending axially from the end structure 151 on the housing 22, preventing the filter head 24 from moving further toward the housing 22 and preventing screw engagement 48 between the filter head 24 and the housing 22. This will be explained in more detail below in relation to the description of the in-tank filter assembly in Figures 5, 6, and 15-17.

[0217] Exemplary bowl-cartridge configurations, Figures 1-4 The assembly 20 in Figures 1 to 4 is a bowl-cartridge configuration 300. In the bowl-cartridge configuration 300, the filter cartridge (or filter element) 34 is removable and replaceable within the housing 22. The housing 22 is a bowl 302 that is selectively detachable from the filter head 24. In this example, the bowl 302 has threads 304 (Figure 3) along the outer surface of the side wall 30 and adjacent to the opening 306 (Figure 1). The threads 304 then screw into the threads 308 (Figure 3) of the filter head 24.

[0218] The illustrated example is a bowl-cartridge configuration 300, but alternatively, the element may be a spin-on assembly where it is permanently part of the housing and cannot be removed from the housing. Rather, the combination of housing and element is a single unit that is threaded onto the filter head. For maintenance, the entire housing and element are discarded and replaced on the filter head.

[0219] Referring again to Figures 1 to 3, at the end 318 of the bowl 302 opposite the mouth 306, the bowl 302 has an open opening 320. The open opening 320 can accommodate a drain valve or other structure.

[0220] The filter head 24 has an outer wall 102 surrounding an open interior 104. The filter head 24 has threads 308 along the inner surface 310 of the wall 102. The filter head 24 has a bowl receiving opening 312 defined by the wall 102, which is sized to receive a bowl 302 for screw engagement.

[0221] The bowl 302 holds the sealing member 314 and forms a releasable seal with the filter head 24. In this example, the sealing member 314 is radially outward, away from the longitudinal axis 90. The sealing member 314 is adjacent to the end of the side wall 30 of the housing 22.

[0222] Below the threads 304 on the bowl 302 is a radially projecting stop flange 316. The flange 316 provides a stop or contact surface for receiving the end portion of the filter head 24. The threads 304 are axially located between the stop flange 316 and the sealing member 314.

[0223] The filter head 24 includes an inner wall 322 (Figure 3). A sealing member 31 from the filter element 34 forms a releasable seal with the wall 322. In the illustrated example, the sealing member 31 is radially outward so as to form a seal along the radially inward surface of the wall 322. In other embodiments, the sealing member 31 may be radially oriented in a radially inward direction relative to the outer portion of the wall 322.

[0224] Along the inner surface of the side wall 30 of the bowl 302, adjacent to the opening 306, there is a shelf or ledge 35 that extends inward. The ledge 35 comprises a second contact member 63, which provides an engagement area / surface 63a for receiving the first contact member 62. In the example shown in Figure 4, the ledge 35 is part of the inner wall 322 of the bowl 302 and is recessed inward from the rest of the inner wall 322 in a region extending from the end portion 328 of the bowl 302 to a point 330 (Figure 3) spaced apart from the end portion 328. The point 330 is typically located less than 10% of the total length of the side wall 30 from the end portion 328.

[0225] The first contact member 62, shown as a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, is shown in Figures 1 to 4 as being attached to the filter head 24. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has an opening that accommodates two or more posts 122 (Figure 4) projecting radially inward from the wall 102 of the filter head 24. Thus, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is slidably mounted on the multiple posts 122. The posts are shown to include heads to help hold the spring 70, but in some arrangements and configurations they may also be provided without heads. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is surrounded by the wall 102 and is itself positioned radially away from the inner wall 322 of the filter head 24 and surrounds the inner wall 224. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has an engagement region / surface 62a, which is the end portion of the spring 70, and when a connection between the filter head 24 and the bowl 302 is attempted, but no filter element is installed in the bowl 302, or an inappropriate filter element is installed, the spring 70 engages with or abuts against the ledge 35 (Figures 3 and 4) at the engagement surface 63a. This engagement between the spring 70 and the ledge 35 prevents the threads 308 on the filter head 24 from connecting with the threads 304 on the filter bowl 302.

[0226] When the appropriate filter element 34 is inside the filter bowl 302, the displacement member 72 (Figure 1A) engages with the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, causing the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 to move radially inward. This moves the filter head 24 to screw-engage and connect with the threads 304 and the filter bowl 302, forming a seal between the sealing member 31 and the inner wall 322, and a seal between the sealing member 314 (Figure 1) and the filter head 24.

[0227] Exemplary in-tank filter assembly; Figures 5, 6, 15-17 The assembly 20 in Figures 5 and 6 is an in-tank filter configuration 400. In-tank filter configurations 400 are typically used in hydraulic systems and are immersed in a tank of hydraulic fluid to keep the oil clean and free of debris. In many typical configurations, the in-tank filter configuration 400 is used to filter the fluid before it leaves the tank and enters the pump inlet line.

[0228] Referring here to Figures 5, 6, and 22-27, the in-tank filter configuration 400 includes a filter head 24. The filter head 24 has an open interior 104 and a wall 102 surrounding fluid channels (e.g., 40, 42). The filter head 24 has a first fastener configuration 106 along the wall 102. The first fastener configuration 106 is shown as threads 108 that form part of a threaded connection 48. The wall 102 has opposing first ends 111 and second ends 112, each of which is open.

[0229] The filter head 24 includes a flange 154 that is contained within a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 90. The flange 154 has holes 156 (e.g., Figure 23) which receive bolts, allowing the filter head 24 to be fixed to the fluid tank.

[0230] Figures 15 and 16 show exemplary embodiments of the cover 28. The cover 28 is sized to be removably positioned inside 104 of the filter head 24. The cover 28 includes a central hub 114 that surrounds a fluid conduit 116 communicating with the fluid channels 40, 42 of the filter head 24. A second fastening configuration 118 is constructed and positioned for a removable connection with the first fastening configuration 106. The second fastening configuration 118 includes threads 120 for mating with threads 108.

[0231] The first contact member 62, shown as a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70, is shown herein as being attached to the cover 28. In this example, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 has an opening that accommodates two or more posts 122 projecting radially from the hub 114. Thus, the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 is slidably mounted on the multiple posts 122. The radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 surrounds the central hub 114 and moves radially in response to the force exerted on the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 by the displacement member 72.

[0232] Referring next to Figure 16, the cover 28 includes a closed cover member 126 having an outer radial surface 128 defining a second fastener configuration 118. The sealing ring 130 is positioned axially away from the cover member 126. The sealing ring 130 is positioned to hold a radially oriented sealing member 132 and to form a seal with the filter head 24.

[0233] The sealing ring 130 has a first axial surface 134 and an opposing second axial surface 136. The first axial surface 134 faces the cover member 126. The central hub 114 extends from the second axial surface 136.

[0234] In the illustrated example, the central hub 114 has an outer diameter of 50-80% of the outer diameter of the sealing ring 130. As shown in the illustration, the sealing member 132, which is oriented radially to the sealing ring 130, faces outward.

[0235] In exemplary embodiments, the first contact member 62 (for example, in one example, a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70) is radially movable between an innermost position and an outermost position, the innermost position having a dimension (diameter, in the case of a circle) D1; the outermost position having a dimension (diameter, in the case of a circle) D2; the ratio of D1:D2 is between 0.74 and 0.98. Examples of how D1 and D2 are measured are shown in Figures 30 and 32. In Figure 30, D1 is the dimension that passes through the geometric center point and touches the innermost region of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70. In Figure 32, D2 is the dimension that passes through the geometric center point and touches the outermost region of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70.

[0236] Exemplary embodiments of the side wall 30 of the housing 22 are shown in Figures 13 and 14. The side wall 30 has an opening 140 and an opposing closed end 142. The opening 140 receives the filter element 34 therein.

[0237] The side wall 30 is shown as tubular, specifically cylindrical, and extends between the opening 140 and the closed end 142. The side wall includes a perforated first section 144 that functions as a strainer 146. A second section 148 extends between the first section 144 and the closed end 142. The second section 148 has a smaller diameter than the first section 144. The length of the second section 148 is less than 50% of the length of the first section 144.

[0238] The first section 144 is shown holding an optional second-stage filter medium 150. The filter medium 150 may be a pleated medium or other type of medium. The second-stage filter medium 150 is positioned radially away from the medium pack 56 of element 34. In the illustrated exemplary configuration, the second-stage filter medium 150 surrounds the medium pack 56 and has a total length of 50-90% of the medium pack 56. Many alternatives are possible.

[0239] An end structure 151 is located at the end of the side wall 30. The filter medium 150 is fixed to the end structure 151. The end structure 151 includes a seal holder ring 153 that projects outward in the axial direction, extending along the outer circumference of the end structure 151 and surrounding the opening 140. The seal holder ring 153 holds a seal member 152 around the outer surface surrounding the opening 140. In the illustrated example, the seal member 152 is radially outward. The seal member 152 forms a seal with the filter head 24 (see Figure 6).

[0240] The end structure 151 further includes one or more extensions 141 projecting axially from there toward the filter medium 150, along the inner circumference of the end structure 151 and the inner diameter of the filter medium 150. The length of the extensions 141 is shorter than the length of the seal holder ring 153. The seal holder ring 153 surrounds the extensions 141 and is spaced radially therefrom, providing a receiving pocket 155 (Figure 14A) between them. The end structure 151 has an engaging surface 157 at the closed end of the receiving pocket 155. The engaging surface 157 is along the outer surface of the end structure 151 on the opposite side of the filter medium 150. The engaging surface 157 provides a surface for the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 to engage with after the assembly is in the second state, i.e., in the embodiment of Figure 5, the spring 70 is deflected radially outward, causing the end components 21 (such as the cover 28) to move downward, positioning the sealing members 132 and 50 in their intended positions to form a seal with the filter head 24, and enabling a screw connection between the cover 28 and the filter head 24.

[0241] The extension 141 may include at least one extension 141, and in the illustrated embodiment, it may include a plurality of extensions spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0242] Each extension 141 includes a terminal end 158, which is the free end of the extension 141 and is spaced apart from the engagement surface 157 and the filter medium 150. The terminal end 158 is positioned to form a second contact member 63 for engaging with the first contact member 62 when the assembly 20 is in a first state. The first state prevents the end configuration 21 (in this case, the cover 28) from being fully connected to the rest of the assembly 20 (in this case, the filter head 24).

[0243] As shown in Figure 22, when the filter cartridge 34 is not installed in the housing 22, there is no transition configuration 64 that enables the assembly 20 to transition to the second state. That is, in this example, there is no displacement configuration 72 (Figure 9) for radially bending the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 from the first (smaller) outermost dimension to the second (larger) outermost dimension. Therefore, the end of the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 abuts against (engages with) the end 158 of the extension 141. This abutment is indicated by arrow 159 in Figure 22. When the radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 abuts against the end 158 of the extension, the cover 28 is prevented from moving downward into the filter head 24, preventing screw engagement between the threads 120 of the cover 28 and the threads 108 of the filter head 24, leaving a gap 147a between them. The sealing members 50 and 132 are prevented from forming a seal with the filter head 24. Figure 23 is a top view showing a radially flexible and axially rigid spring 70 in its first (smaller) outermost dimension.

[0244] Figures 24 and 25 illustrate the assembly steps of the filter assembly 20. The filter cartridge 34 is properly and operably installed within the housing 22 with the seal member 150 forming a seal together with the filter head 24. In FIG. 24, the cover 28 is initially lowered into position within the filter head 24. There is an engagement between the spring 70 and the trailing edge 78 of the displacement configuration 72, causing the spring to begin moving radially outward (see arrow 161). The space between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown as gap 147b, which is too large for screw engagement. In FIGS. 25 and 26, as the cover 28 having the spring 70 continues to move deeper into the filter head 24, the spring 70 is flexed radially outward, which reduces the gap 147b but is still too large for screw engagement. The spring 70 is moving into the receiving pocket 155 (FIG. 14A) in the direction toward the engagement surface 157.

[0245] Figures 27 and 28 illustrate the complete assembly. The cover 28 and the filter head 24 are connected to each other, and the seals 50 and 132 are in a predetermined position between the cover 28 and the filter head 24. The spring 70, which is radially flexible and axially rigid, is within the receiving pocket 155 and can be engaged with (or immediately adjacent to) the engagement surface 157. FIG. 28 shows the spring 70, which is radially flexible and axially rigid, at the second (larger) outermost dimension.

[0246] Alternative embodiments, Figures 20-21 Figures 20 and 21 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the filter assembly 20. In this embodiment, the displacement member 72 includes a living hinge 160. The living hinge 160 is fixed to the end cap configuration 36. For example, the living hinge 160 may be an integrally formed part of the first end cap 38 along the outer radial circumference.

[0247] The living hinge 160 includes a first leg 162 and a second leg 164 that are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other. The hinge pivot point 166 is at the intersection of 162 and 164.

[0248] In FIG. 20, the first leg 162 is oriented vertically so as to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 90, and the second leg 164 is oriented horizontally.

[0249] When the cover 28 is disposed over the filter element 34, the first abutment member 62 (e.g., a spring 70 that is radially flexible and axially rigid) surrounds the first leg 162 (the vertically oriented leg 162) beyond the first leg 162. The end portion 168 of the first abutment member 62 (e.g., a spring 70 that is radially flexible and axially rigid) abuts or engages the second leg 164 (the horizontally oriented leg 164).

[0250] In FIG. 21, when the first abutment member 62 (e.g., spring 70) contacts the second leg 164 that is horizontally oriented, the first leg 162 that is vertically oriented rotates radially outwardly about the pivot point 166 and pushes the first abutment member 62 (e.g., spring 70) radially outwardly. When the second leg 164 is further pushed downward, the first leg 162 further pushes the first abutment member 62 (e.g., spring 70) outward. Due to this radial displacement of the spring 70, the cover 28 can move axially toward the element 34 and move deeper into the filter head 24 (FIG. 6), whereby the threaded connection 48 between the head 24 and the cover 28 can engage.

[0251] Alternative embodiments, Figures 29-33 FIGS. 29 - 33 show an alternative embodiment. It is similar to the assembly 20 of FIGS. 22 - 28, but the first abutment member 62 in this embodiment is a radially flexible and axially rigid leaf spring 71. The leaf spring 71 is formed to form a partial enclosure, thereby including a gap 73 between the end portions 71a and 71b (see FIGS. 30 and 32).

[0252] In the illustrated embodiment, the leaf spring 71 is a non-circular flexible band 71'. In the illustrated example, the flexible band 71' has multiple linear segments 75 that intersect with adjacent segments 75 at vertices 77, forming an open polygonal shape with gaps 73. Many deformations are possible, but in the illustrated non-limiting example, the open polygonal shape is an octagon with eight segments 75 and ends 71a and 71b with gaps 73 in between.

[0253] As the assembly 20 moves between the first and second states, the leaf spring 71 deflects radially outward from the first outermost dimension (Figures 30 and 33) to the second (larger) outermost dimension (Figure 32). This radial deflection increases the distance between the ends 71a and 71b, and increases the gap 73.

[0254] Figures 29 and 30 show the start of engagement between the leaf spring 71 and the displacement configuration 72 before deflection. The filter cartridge 34 is properly operably installed within the housing 22 with the sealing member 150 forming a seal together with the filter head 24. In Figure 29, the cover 28 is initially lowered to its position within the filter head 24. There is engagement between the leaf spring 71 and the displacement configuration 72, which causes the leaf spring 71 to begin moving radially outward. The space between the cover 28 and the head 24 is shown as a gap 147b, which is too large for screw engagement.

[0255] Figures 31 and 32 show the complete assembly. The cover 28 and the filter head 24 are connected to each other, and seals 50 and 132 are in place between the cover 28 and the filter head 24. A radially flexible and axially rigid leaf spring 71 is located in a receiving pocket 155 (Figure 14A) and can engage with (or immediately next to) an engagement surface 157. Figure 32 shows the radially flexible and axially rigid leaf spring 71 in its second (larger) outermost dimension.

[0256] As shown in Figure 33, when the filter cartridge 34 is not installed in the housing 22, there is no transition configuration 64 that enables the assembly 20 to transition to the second state. That is, in this example, there is no displacement configuration 72 (Figure 9) for radially bending the radially flexible and axially rigid leaf spring 71 from the first (smaller) outermost dimension to the second (larger) outermost dimension. Therefore, the end of the leaf spring 71 abuts against (engages with) the end 158 of the extension 141. When the leaf spring 71 abuts against the end 158 of the extension, the cover 28 is prevented from moving downward into the filter head 24, preventing screw engagement between the threads 120 of the cover 28 and the threads 108 of the filter head 24, leaving a gap 147a between them. The sealing members 50 and 132 are prevented from forming a seal with the filter head 24.

[0257] Exemplary anti-rotation configurations 98, Figures 10, 16, 18, and 19 As described above, the assembly 20 may include an optional anti-rotation configuration 98. The anti-rotation configuration 98 minimizes or prevents the sealing member 92 from twisting or being pushed out when the filter cartridge 34 is fixed to the filter cover 28.

[0258] The anti-rotation configuration 98 includes a filter element portion 200 that is fixed to or integral with the end cap configuration 36. Typically, as shown in the figure, the anti-rotation configuration 98, which is a portion 200 on the filter element 34, is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap 38.

[0259] As shown in Figure 10, portion 200 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap configuration 36 adjacent to the sealing member 92. Preferably, the anti-rotation configuration 98 is positioned to provide at least some lateral support to the sealing member 92.

[0260] In many preferred configurations, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is located between the sealing member 92 and the outer circumference 170 or edge of the end cap configuration 36.

[0261] In the illustrated example, the filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is along the outer circumference 170 of the first end cap 38. The filter element portion 200 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 may include a plurality of projections 204. The projections 204 may be separated by receiving portions 206. The projections 204 and receiving portions 206 form an outer ring 208 surrounding the seal member 92. When positioned here, the projections 204 are positioned to provide at least some lateral support to the seal member 92, in particular when the filter element 34 has a filtration flow from the inside of the filter medium 56 to the outside of the filter medium 56. If the filtration flow is reversed (i.e., from outside to inside), the projections 204 are provided in a ring shape on the inside of the seal member 92.

[0262] Many embodiments are possible, but each of the projections 204 of the outer ring 208 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 206 of the outer ring 208 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0263] Referring here to Figures 16, 18, and 19, part of the anti-rotation configuration 98 may include a filter cover portion 210. The filter cover portion 210 includes a first hub ring 211 having projections 212 and receiving portions 214. Each of the projections 212 of the first hub ring 211 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 214 of the first hub ring 211 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the first hub ring 211 is 1 to 1.3.

[0264] In many examples, the receiving portions 206 / 214 on the element portion 200 and the cover portion 210 are positioned and sized to receive the projections 204 / 212 on the element portion 200 and the cover portion 210. However, the fit does not need to be precise, and the receiving portions 206, 214 may be larger in size, shape, and area compared to the projections 204, 212. Together, the projections 204, 212 and the receiving portions 206, 214 define the projection-receiving configuration.

[0265] In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusions 204, 212 are circumferentially spaced apart with receiving portions 206, 214 therebetween. In some cases, the protrusions 204, 212 are evenly and alternately arranged with the receiving portions 206, 214.

[0266] In a preferred implementation, the filter element portion 200 further includes an inner ring 216 having protrusions 217 and receiving portions 218 radially inward of the seal member 92 such that the seal member 92 is positioned between the outer ring 208 and the inner ring 216. The inner ring 216 and the outer ring 208 are disposed on the axial surface 94 of the first end cap 38 directed away from the media pack 56. Each of the protrusions 217 of the inner ring 216 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 218 of the inner ring 216 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of the inner ring 216 is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0267] The inner ring 216, in this example, surrounds the open aperture 54 of the first end cap 38. The inner ring 216 is typically disposed radially spaced from the open aperture 54.

[0268] Similarly, the cover portion 210 includes a second hub ring 220 having protrusions 221 and receiving portions 222 radially inward of the first hub ring 211. When the cover 28 is engaged with the filter cartridge 34, the seal member 92 is between the first hub ring 211 and the second hub ring 220. Each of the protrusions 221 of the second hub ring 220 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 222 of the second hub ring 220 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of the second hub ring 220 is 1 to 1.3.

[0269] The number of protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be equal to or different from each other, or some may be the same and others different. For example, the number of protrusions 217 on the outer ring 208 may be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 204 on the inner ring 216. Similarly, the number of protrusions 212 on the first hub ring 211 may be equal to or different from the number of protrusions 221 on the second hub ring 220. The number of protrusions 204 may be equal to the number of protrusions 212.

[0270] The amplitudes (heights) of the protrusions 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be equal to each other, different from each other, or partially the same and partially different. For example, the protrusions 204 and 217 may be equal or different. The protrusions 212 and 221 may be equal or different.

[0271] The peripheral shapes of the projections 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be equal to each other, different from each other, or partially the same and partially different. For example, projections 204, 212, 217, and 221 may be cogs 230, 232, 234, and 236 having a rectangular or substantially triangular shape. The shapes of the receiving portions 206, 214, 218, and 222 may be the same as or different from the projections 204, 212, 217, and 221, and include substantially rectangular or triangular shapes. In addition, projections 204, 212, 217, and 221 and receiving portions 206, 214, 218, and 222 may be waveforms, including, for example, sine waves.

[0272] During use, the end cap configuration 36 of the element portion 200 nests with the first hub ring 211 to fix the filter cartridge 34 and cover 28 in the rotational direction.

[0273] Exemplary anti-rotation configuration 98, Figures 34-39 Figures 34 to 39 show another embodiment of the filter assembly 420. The filter assembly 420 includes a serviceable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter element or cartridge 434 operably positioned therein. The filter element or cartridge 434 has a first end 482 and an opposing second end 484.

[0274] The end component 421 is removably positioned on the filter element 434. In the assembly 420, the end component 421 is the filter head 424. Typically, the filter head 424 is a cast member made from, for example, cast aluminum or other material.

[0275] The assembly 420 further includes a bowl / housing 422 having side walls 430. When in use, the side walls 430 extend from (hang down from) the filter head 424. Generally, the bowl 422 defines an internal volume 432, within which selected internal components, as defined, are included, and specific filtration and flow operations are performed. The bowl 422 has an opening 427 from which a filter cartridge 434 can be inserted and removed. The opening 427 is also part of the bowl 422 that is releasably connected to the filter head 424. The filter assembly 420 is sometimes referred to as the bowl cartridge assembly 420.

[0276] A typical maintainable filter cartridge 434 further includes an end cap configuration 436 at the first end 482, as described below, the end cap configuration 436 can be embodied as a top or first end cap 438, providing a preferred mounting and sealing of the maintainable filter cartridge 434 to the filter head 424. The second end 484 of the filter cartridge 434 includes a second end cap 439.

[0277] The first end cap 438 includes a central opening 454 for liquid to pass to or from the filter head 424.

[0278] The end cap 438 can be molded from a variety of moldable plastic materials, such as polyamide (PA). For example, glass-filled polyamide (filled with 15-30% by weight of glass) can be used. It can also be formed as a metal piece.

[0279] The filter cartridge 434 includes a filter medium 456, which is sometimes referred to herein as the “medium pack 456”. The medium 456 may also be a pleated medium 458 contained within a pleated mesh or similar structure, the pleats extending between opposing first end caps 438 and second end caps 439.

[0280] As shown in the exemplary embodiment, the media pack 456 is substantially tubular and encloses an open volume. The tubular media pack 456 is shown as cylindrical. The central longitudinal axis 490 is located in the center of the media pack 456 and passes through the first end 482 and the second end 484 of the cartridge 434.

[0281] The typical operation of assembly 420 in Figure 34 is generally as follows: The filter head 424 receives contaminated fluid (e.g., oil) from an upstream source. The fluid to be filtered flows into the filter head 424 and then into the unfiltered liquid volume 423, which is the volume between the side wall 430 and the filter medium 456. From there, the fluid passes through the filter medium 456 (referred to herein as the “filtered flow”), which removes dirt and debris from the fluid. This fluid flows into the filtered liquid volume 425 inside the medium pack 456. From there, the filtered liquid flows into the filter head 424 through the opening 454 of the first end cap 438. It exits the filter head 424 for use in the system. The “forward flow” operation (outside to inside) has been described above. In some cases, assembly 420 can also operate in “reverse flow” operation, where the flow is from inside to outside.

[0282] The second end cap 439 in Figure 34 is closed. Generally, the second end cap 439 can be either closed or open. The assembly 420 in Figure 34 has a valve assembly 426 in the bowl 422 opposite the opening 427. The valve assembly 426 may be used to drain the collected water from the bottom of the bowl 422.

[0283] The filter cartridge 434 includes a sealing member 492 fixed to the axial portion 494 of the end cap configuration 436 in a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 490. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the sealing member 492 is positioned on the axial portion 494 of the first end cap 438. The sealing member 492 forms a seal between the unfiltered liquid volume 423 and the filtered liquid volume 425. The sealing member 492 is radially positioned between the radial positions of the upstream and downstream tips of the pleated medium 458.

[0284] The assembly 420 includes an anti-rotation configuration 98 provided to minimize or prevent twisting of the sealing member 492 when the filter cartridge 434 is fixed to the filter head 424. The anti-rotation configuration 98 is the same as the configuration described above.

[0285] The anti-rotation configuration 98 includes a filter element portion 500 (Figures 35 and 38) that is fixed to or integral with the end cap configuration 436. Typically, as shown, the portion 500 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 on the filter element 434 is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap 438.

[0286] As shown in Figure 35, portion 500 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is located on the axial portion 94 of the end cap configuration 436, adjacent to the sealing member 492. Preferably, the anti-rotation configuration 98 is positioned to provide at least some radial support to the axial portion 494. Note that the sealing member 492 is present in the actual installation, as shown in Figure 34, although it is not shown in Figures 35-38 for clarity. In a preferred configuration, the sealing member 492 is supported along at least some positions along the inner or outer radial side of the sealing member 492, or along both the inner and outer radial sides.

[0287] In many preferred configurations, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is located between the sealing member 492 and the outer circumference 570 or edge of the end cap configuration 436.

[0288] In the illustrated example, the filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 is along the outer circumference 570 of the first end cap 438. The filter element portion 500 of the anti-rotation configuration 98 may include a plurality of projections 504. The projections 504 may be separated by receiving portions 506. The projections 504 and receiving portions 506 form an outer ring 508 surrounding the seal member 492. When positioned here, the projections 504 are positioned to provide at least some radial support to the seal member 492, in particular when the filter element 434 has a filtration flow from the inside of the filter medium 456 to the outside of the filter medium 456. If the filtration flow is reversed (i.e., from outside to inside), the projections 504 are provided in a ring shape inside the seal member 492.

[0289] Many embodiments are possible, but each of the projections 504 of the outer ring 508 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 506 of the outer ring 508 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the outer ring 508 is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0290] Part of the anti-rotation configuration 98 may include a filter head portion 510 (Figure 39). The filter head portion 510 includes a first hub ring 511 having projections 512 and receiving portions 514. Each of the projections 512 of the first hub ring 511 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 514 of the first hub ring 511 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the first hub ring 511 is 1 to 1.3.

[0291] In many examples, projections associated with element portion 500 are received by receiving portions on head portion 510, and projections associated with head portion 510 are received by receiving portions on element portion 500. For example, as shown, receiving portions 506 / 514 on element portion 500 and head portion 510 are positioned and sized to receive projections 504 / 512 on element portion 500 and head portion 510. However, the fit does not need to be precise, and receiving portions 506, 514 may be larger in size, shape, and area compared to projections 504, 512, for example, as shown later in Figures 55 to 66. Together, projections 504, 512 and receiving portions 506, 514 define the projection-receiving configuration.

[0292] In exemplary embodiments, the projections 504 and 512 are spaced circumferentially with receiving portions 506 and 514 between them. In some cases, as will be further described later with respect to Figure 51, the projections 504 and 512 are evenly and alternately arranged with respect to the receiving portions 506 and 514.

[0293] In a preferred implementation, the filter element portion 500 further includes an inner ring 516 having projections 517 and receiving portions 518 radially inward of the sealing member 492, such that the sealing member 492 is positioned between the outer ring 508 and the inner ring 516. The inner ring 516 and the outer ring 508 are arranged on the axial surface 94 of the first end cap 438, which is oriented away from the media pack 56. Each of the projections 517 of the inner ring 516 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 518 of the inner ring 516 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the inner ring 516 is 0.2 to 1.0.

[0294] In this example, the inner ring 516 surrounds the open opening 454 of the first end cap 438. The inner ring 516 is typically positioned radially away from the open opening 454.

[0295] Similarly, the head portion 510 includes a second hub ring 520 having projections 521 and receiving portions 522 radially inward from the first hub ring 511. When the filter head 424 is engaged with the filter cartridge 434, the sealing member 492 is located between the first hub ring 511 and the second hub ring 520. Each of the projections 521 of the second hub ring 520 defines a closed area, and each of the receiving portions 522 of the second hub ring 520 defines an open area. The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the second hub ring 520 is 1 to 1.3.

[0296] The number of projections 504, 512, 517, and 521 may be equal to or different from each other, or some may be the same number and others different. For example, the number of projections 504 on the outer ring 508 may be equal to or different from the number of projections 517 on the inner ring 516. Similarly, the number of projections 512 on the outer hub ring 511 may be equal to or different from the number of projections 521 on the inner hub ring 520. The number of projections 504 may be equal to the number of projections 512.

[0297] The amplitudes (heights) of the protrusions 504, 512, 517, and 521 may be equal to each other, different from each other, or some may be the same height while others are different. For example, the protrusions 504 and 517 may be equal or different. The protrusions 512 and 521 may be equal or different.

[0298] The outer circumferential shapes of the projections 504, 512, 517, and 521 may be the same as, different from, or partially the same and partially different. For example, the projections 504, 512, 517, and 521 may be teeth or cogs having various shapes, including approximately triangular, rectangular, and wavy (including sine waves). The shapes of the receiving portions 506, 514, 518, and 522 may be the same as or different from those of the projections 504, 512, 517, and 521.

[0299] During use, the end cap configuration 436 of the element portion 500 nests with the outer hub ring 511 to fix the filter cartridge 434 and filter head 424 in the rotational direction.

[0300] In-tank filter assembly, Figures 40-43 Another embodiment is shown in Figures 40–43 as an in-tank filter assembly 600, which includes a tank 602 having a filter head 604 and a removable cover 606. In Figure 41, a filter cartridge 610 is visible, operably mounted within the tank 602 and connected to the filter head 604 and cover 606. The in-tank filter assembly 600 is similar to assembly 20 in Figure 5, and its features will not be repeated here but will be incorporated by reference.

[0301] The filter assembly 600 includes an axially mounted sealing member 92 (Figures 42 and 43) and includes an anti-rotation configuration 98 provided to minimize or prevent twisting of the sealing member 92 when the filter cartridge 610 is fixed to the filter head 604. The anti-rotation configuration 98 is the same as the configuration described above. Therefore, the anti-rotation configuration 98 includes an outer ring 208 formed by alternately arranged projections 204 and receiving portions 206 on the filter cartridge 610, and an inner ring 216 having projections 217 and receiving portions 218 radially inward of the sealing member 92, such that the sealing member 92 is radially between the outer ring 208 and the inner ring 216. On the filter cover 606, the anti-rotation configuration 98 includes a first hub ring 211 having alternately positioned protrusions 212 and receiving portions 214, and a second hub ring 220 (Figures 18 and 19) having protrusions 221 and receiving portions 222 (Figures 18 and 19).

[0302] In Figure 43, the projections 204, 212, 216, and 221, and the receiving parts 206, 212, 214, and 218 are each shown as having a roughly triangular shape. Other shapes are also possible. Note that for ease of explanation, certain components such as springs are not shown in Figure 43.

[0303] Exemplary method for connecting filter assemblies The above components can be used in a method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end configuration. The filter end configuration may be either a filter head or a filter cover. The filter assembly includes a filter cartridge that is removably mounted within a housing and has a plurality of cartridge projections and receptacles positioned to engage with the filter end configuration. The filter end configuration has a plurality of end configuration projections and receptacles positioned to engage with the filter cartridge. The method includes the step of positioning the cartridge projections so as to be at least partially receptive within the receptacles of the end configuration, thereby allowing the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end configuration. After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration, threads on the housing engage with threads on the end configuration. The method further includes the step of rotating the housing relative to the end configuration in order to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration.

[0304] In a further exemplary method, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted within a housing and a sealing member configured to be attached to a filter end configuration having a plurality of end configuration projections positioned to radially support the sealing member of the filter cartridge. The method includes the step of positioning the sealing member of the cartridge so as to be at least partially received by the end configuration projections, thereby enabling the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end configuration. After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration, threads on the housing engage with threads on the end configuration. The method further includes the step of rotating the housing relative to the end configuration to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration.

[0305] This method helps ensure that the projection / receptor on the filter cartridge engages with the receptor / projection on the filter head or cover before the mating threads engage. Such a configuration minimizes the possibility of the filter cartridge elements and projections on the head or cover becoming stuck or jammed.

[0306] Examples of preferred configurations are schematically shown in Figures 44 to 46. In these figures, the filter head or cover is shown as 702 and has threads or a threaded portion 704 and a plurality of projections 706 having a free end tip 708. The cartridge is shown as 710 and is removably disposed within a housing or bowl 712. The housing or bowl 712 has threads or a threaded portion 714. The cartridge 710 has a plurality of projections 716 having a free end tip 718.

[0307] Dimension D1 is the measured distance from the starting point of the threaded portion 714 on the housing / bowl 712 to the free end tip 718 of the cartridge projection 716. Dimension D2 is the measured distance from the starting point of the threaded portion 704 on the filter head / cover 702 to the free end tip 708 of the projection 706.

[0308] To reduce or minimize the possibility of the opposing tips 708, 718 becoming stuck or jammed together during installation, the projections may be positioned so that the tips 708, 718 extend axially beyond the engagement or contact of the threads 704, 718. Such a configuration can be achieved by making D1 not equal to D2, so that an axial overlap distance D3 occurs between the tips 708, 718 when the ends of the threads 704, 718 are in contact but not yet engaged. For example, Figure 44 presents a configuration in which the projection 716 on the cartridge 710 is recessed into the bowl / housing 712, where D1 is approximately 0.88 inches, which is smaller than D2, which is approximately 0.93 inches. In another example, Figure 45 presents a configuration in which the projection 706 is recessed into the filter head / cover 702, where D1 is approximately 0.91 inches, which is larger than D2, which is approximately 0.78 inches. In yet another example, Figure 46 shows a configuration in which projections 706 and 716 are positioned within the threaded area of ​​the filter head / cover 702, where D1 is approximately 0.31 inches, which is larger than D2, which is approximately 0.26 inches. In the above configuration, the resulting overlap distance D3 is the difference between D1 and D2, ranging from 0.05 inches to 0.13 inches. However, other overlap distances are also possible.

[0309] Alternative displacement configurations and extension members shown in Figures 47 to 50 Referring to Figures 47 to 50, configurations using alternatively configured displacement configurations 72 and extension members 141 are presented. The features of the configurations in Figures 47 to 50 are mainly shown with respect to the embodiments of the filter assemblies shown in Figures 34 to 46, but are not limited thereto and can be used in conjunction with other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0310] As shown in Figures 47–50 and as in other embodiments disclosed herein, the end structure 151 includes a plurality of axially extending, spaced extension members 141 that abut against the displacement configuration 72. In some features, the extension members 141 may be referred to as collectively forming a fortress-like, loophole-like, and / or riftwall shape. When the filter element 34 associated with the displacement section 72 and the housing 22 associated with the extension member 141 are fully assembled, an open space or passage is formed between the end of the displacement configuration 72 and the adjacent extension member 141. In such a configuration, bypass flows and case drain flows can pass through these open spaces. However, in contrast to other previously disclosed embodiments, the extension member 141 includes an end section 158 that includes a stepped feature rather than the previously shown planar configuration. This stepped feature interacts cooperatively with a similarly shaped stepped feature located at the end section 81 of the displacement configuration 72. As is most readily apparent in Figure 49, the end portion 158 comprises axially oriented surfaces 158a, 158c and radially inward oriented surfaces 158b, 158d that form a first stepped profile, and the end portion 81 comprises axially oriented surfaces 81a, 81c, 81e and radially outward oriented surfaces 81b, 81d that form a cooperatively formed second stepped profile. In such a configuration, the first and second stepped profiles can engage or join with each other such that the surfaces 81a / 158a and 81c / 158c and 81b, 158b abut each other to form a secure radial and axial connection. Furthermore, the surface 81d, which is shown with a slight taper, can act as a guide feature during initial installation by providing a bevel that can interact with the angle formed by surfaces 158c and 158d to center or position the filter element 34 relative to the housing 22, so that the first and second stepped profiles can be easily engaged at the joint 83. Note that the stepped profiles can be switched between components so that the end portion 81 has a radially inward-facing surface facing a radially outward-facing surface provided on the end portion 158.

[0311] In one embodiment, the first and second stepped profiles, through their engagement with each other, ensure that the filter element 34 is precisely positioned or centered relative to the housing 22. This feature, therefore, advantageously ensures that the inclined surface 86 of the displacement configuration 72 is perfectly aligned with the inclined surface 141a of the extension member around the entire outer circumference of the displacement configuration 72. Since the spring 70 first slides along the inclined surface 86 and then transitions to sliding along the inclined surface 141a during installation, it is beneficial to avoid any portion of the end surface 158a being exposed or located radially outward from the displacement configuration 72. Otherwise, such exposed portions could act undesirably as catch or contact surfaces against the axial end of the spring 70, even if the filter element 34 is properly installed within the housing 22. It should be noted that the inclined surface 141a can be radially recessed from the inclined surface 86 rather than being perfectly aligned with the inclined surface 86 to avoid such potential conditions. It should also be noted that the angles of the inclined surfaces 86 and 141a may be the same or different. The first and second stepped profiles each include two axial surfaces and one radial surface, essentially forming a single stepped arrangement, but additional axial and radial surfaces can be provided to create multiple stepped profiles. Additionally, it is possible that only some of the extension members 141 have stepped profiles, while others have flat or other axial end faces at a lower relative height. For example, it is possible to provide a configuration in which some extension members have the profiles shown in Figure 49, while others have only an axial surface 158c, or an even lower surface defining the end portion of the extension member.

[0312] Shapes of the protrusions and receiving parts and further examples in Figures 51 to 66 As already mentioned above, the filter cartridge projections 204, 217, 504, 517, 716, the filter cartridge receptacles 206, 218, 506, 518, the filter head or cover projections 212, 221, 512, 521, 706, and the filter head or cover receptacles 214, 222, 514, 522 may have various shapes and configurations in addition to those already disclosed in Figures 1 to 46. Figures 47 to 58 schematically present the filter cartridge projection P1, the filter cartridge receptacle R1, the filter head or cover projection P2, and the filter head or cover receptacle R2 and show some of such possible modifications that can be used with any of the projections and receptacles shown and described herein. For illustrative purposes, these figures are presented as schematic diagrams of flat sections of the projections and receptacles.

[0313] While many examples are described and disclosed herein, it should be noted that some arrangements and configurations may be more preferable or offer particular advantages, at least for specific installations. For example, configurations including sharply pointed projections can minimize surface contact and beneficially reduce sticking between projections during installation. Furthermore, sidewalls of projections and receivers with relatively steep sidewalls can induce near-vertical compression, while sidewalls with relatively shallow sidewalls can help facilitate alignment between two opposing parts. In some configurations, symmetrical projections and receivers with an open-to-closed area ratio close to 1 are advantageous in helping to reduce engagement and sticking between projections during installation. For a given projection-receiver design, these embodiments can be balanced to achieve an optimally functioning system.

[0314] As described above, the projections and receptacles of the filter cartridge and filter head or cover can define closed and open areas, respectively. Figure 51 schematically shows these features as A-P1 and A-R1 for the filter cartridge F, and as A-P2 and A-R2 for the filter head or cover H. The seal support surface S1 for the filter cartridge F is also schematically shown. In some of the examples described above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the filter cartridge receptacle to the closed area of ​​the filter cartridge projection, which can be characterized as A-R1 to A-P1, is 0.4 to 1.6. However, other ranges are also possible. For example, the ratio of A-R1 to A-P1 of the inner ring and / or outer ring may be, for example, 0.2 to 1.8, 0.7 to 1.8, 0.8 to 1.0, 1 to 1.8, 1 to 1, greater than 1, or less than 1. In some of the examples described above, the ratio of the open area of ​​the filter head or cover receptacle to the closed area of ​​the filter head or cover projection can be characterized as A-R2 to A-P2, and is between 0.48 and 1.5. However, other ranges are also possible. For example, the A-R2 to A-P2 ratio of the inner ring and / or outer ring may be, for example, 1 to 1.3, 0.2 to 1.7, 0.97 to 0.98, 1 to 1, a ratio greater than 1, or a ratio less than 1. In some configurations, symmetrical projections and receptacles with a ratio close to 1.0 are advantageous in helping to reduce engagement and sticking between projections P1 and P2 during installation.

[0315] Referring to Figure 52, a schematic diagram is presented showing a sealing surface S1 and / or a portion of the seal supported thereon, which is radially supported or unsupported by projections P1 of one or both of the outer ring OR and the inner ring IR. As shown in Figure 52, the sealing support surface S1 is radially supported by each of the projections P1 over a length L1 and unsupported by each of the projections P1 over a length L2, and the sum of lengths L1 and L2 is equal to the length between the common points of adjacent projections P1. Figure 52 also shows an angle a1 representing the angle between the side wall of the illustrated projection P1 and a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. In some examples, L1 and L2 are approximately equal to each other. In some examples, L1 is greater than L2. In some examples, L2 is greater than L1. The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 on the filter element may be about 0.05 to 1.5 in some examples, about 0.1 to 1.3 in some examples, and / or about 0.2 to 0.9 in some examples. The ratio of the unsupported length L2 to the supported length L1 on the cover or head side may be approximately 0.1–1.4 in some cases, approximately 0.2–1.2 in others, and / or approximately 0.4–0.8 in others. In some cases, the angle a1 is 30–75 degrees. In some cases, the angle a1 is approximately 60 degrees. In some cases, the angle a1 is approximately 45 degrees.

[0316] Referring to Figures 53 and 54, a schematic top view diagram of an exemplary projection and receptacle configuration on a filter cartridge shows an outer ring OR having projections P1 and receptacle R1, an inner ring IR having projections P1 and receptacle R1, and a seal support surface S1 disposed between them. In such a diagram, it can be seen that the support length L1 corresponds to the radial angle a2, the unsupported length L2 corresponds to the radial angle a3, and the total length L3 corresponds to the radial angle a4. As with L1 and L2, in some examples a2 and a3 are equal, in some examples a2 is greater than a3, and in some examples a3 is greater than a2. The ratio of the unsupported length angle a3 to the support length angle a2 on the filter element and cover or head may be about 0.25 to 1.75 in some examples, about 0.5 to 1.5 in some examples, and / or about 1 in some examples. In the example shown in Figure 53, the vertices of the projections P1 associated with the inner ring IR and the outer ring OR are radially aligned with each other, whereas in Figure 54, the vertices of the projections on the inner ring OR are offset by an angle a5 from the vertices of the projections P1 on the outer ring OR. In one example, the angle a5 is in the range of 0 to 30 degrees. In some examples, a5 is equal to half of the angle a4 so that the vertices of the projections on the inner ring IR are radially aligned with the valleys of the receiving portion R1 on the outer ring OR. In other words, the vertices of the projections P1 on the inner ring IR are radially aligned midway between adjacent vertices of the projections P1 on the outer ring OR.

[0317] Referring to Figures 55 to 66, additional exemplary configurations of protrusions and receptacles are shown. Figure 55 provides an example where the number of protrusions P1 and receptacles R1 on the filter cartridge F does not match the number of protrusions P2 and receptacles R2 on the filter head or cover H. In the particular example shown, the number of protrusions P1 and receptacles R1 is less than the number of protrusions P2 and receptacles R2, but the reverse is also possible.

[0318] Referring to Figure 56, an example is provided in which the projection P1 and the receiving part R2 have different shapes compared to the projection P2 and the receiving part R1. In the illustrated example, the projection P1 and the receiving part R2 have a triangular shape, while the projection P2 and the receiving part R1 have a trapezoidal shape. As with many other combinations, the reverse configuration is also possible.

[0319] Referring to Figures 57 to 60, further examples of possible shapes of the projections and receptors are provided. Figure 57 shows an example with trapezoidal projections P1, P2 and receptors R1, R2. Figure 58 shows an example where projections P1, P2 and receptors R1, R2 are curved, wavy, or sinusoidal. Figure 59 shows an example where projections P1, P2 and receptors R1, R2 are rectangular. Figure 60 shows an example where projections P1, P2 and receptors R1, R2 are rectangular with pointed ends. They may also have rounded ends. Other configurations and shapes are also possible.

[0320] Referring to Figure 61, a configuration is shown in which the projections P1, P2 and the receiving parts R1, R2 are molded asymmetrically. In the illustrated example, the projections and receiving parts have a serrated shape. Other configurations and shapes are also possible.

[0321] Referring to Figure 62, adjacent projections P1, P2 and receiving parts R1, R2 are shown to have different configurations from one another. In the illustrated example, the projections and receiving parts have three triangles of different sizes and shapes, with different circumferential widths and different axial lengths or depths. More or fewer different shapes and / or sizes can be provided, in or without repeating patterns, to result in rotational symmetry ranging from a single folding rotational symmetry to many desired degrees of symmetry.

[0322] Referring to Figures 63 and 64, a configuration is shown in which the seal support surface S1 is provided at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge F. Figure 63 shows a configuration in which the projection and the receiving portion remain arranged along a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge, and Figure 64 shows a configuration in which the projection and the receiving portion are also oriented at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis. In such configurations, the seal surface of the filter head is similarly angled or arranged so as to form a proper seal together with the obliquely oriented seal member supported by the seal surface S1.

[0323] In the configurations shown in Figures 62 to 65, the filter cartridge F can be received by the cover or head H only in a limited number of rotational positions, or even in a single rotational position. In such cases, the filter cartridge F and / or the cover or head H may have rotational alignment features, including those of the type known in the art. For example, see "Liquid" published on December 12, 2023. Filter Assemblies The type of alignment features shown and described in U.S. Patent No. 11,839,842, titled "Features; Components; and Methods," may be incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Patent No. 11,839,842 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0324] Referring to Figure 65, another example is provided in which at least a portion of the seal support surface is provided at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge. In this example, the seal support surface S1 has a corrugated or sinusoidal shape that is deflected in the axial direction. Therefore, the seal attached to the seal support surface S1 has a similar shape. The opposing surface of the filter head in which the seal member forms a seal also has a similar shape. Note that the engagement between projections P1 and P2 ensures that the filter cartridge F can be positioned in only one of several predetermined angular directions such that the corrugated seal member is always aligned with the corrugated seal surface on the filter head to form a proper seal. In the illustrated example, the vertices of the seal support surface S1 are aligned with the receiving portion R1, but they may be positioned to be aligned with the vertices of projections P1. In the illustrated example, the seal support surface S1 has a number of vertices equal to the number of projections P1, but it may have more or fewer vertices. In the illustrated example, the seal support surface has a uniform corrugated profile, but it may have an irregular or asymmetrical profile.

[0325] Referring to Figure 66, examples are provided showing that the projection of the filter element F can have different sizes and shapes from the receiving portion. In one embodiment, the projection P1 of the filter element has a maximum width W1 and a maximum height H1 defining a first area A1, and the receiving portion R2 of the cover or head H has a width W2 and a height H1 defining an area A2. In the illustrated example, the height H1 is smaller than the height H2, the width W1 is smaller than the width W2, and area A1 is smaller than area A2. In some examples, the heights H1 and H2 are generally equal, but the width W1 is smaller than the width W2, thereby keeping area A1 smaller than area A2. In some examples, the widths W1 and W2 are generally equal, but the height H1 is smaller than the height H2, thereby keeping area A1 smaller than area A2. As shown in Figure 66, the projection P1 can have a shape similar to or different from the receiving portion. For example, the left side of Figure 66 shows triangular-shaped protrusions P1 and R1, and the right side of Figure 66 shows a rounded-shaped protrusion P1 and a triangular-shaped receiving portion R1. Many other possible combinations of differently shaped receiving portions R1 and protrusions P1 are possible, as long as the area A1 of the protrusion P1 remains smaller than the area A2 of the receiving portion R1, and the periphery or boundary edge of the receiving portion R1 can surround the periphery or boundary edge of the protrusion P1. In some examples, the ratio of A1 to A2 is 0 to 1 in some cases, 0.25 to 0.75 in some cases, and about 0.5 in some cases. In another embodiment, the sealing material SM may be characterized by having an unsupported area A3 defined as an area of ​​the sealing material SM that is not covered by the protrusion P1 or is otherwise not adjacent to the protrusion P1. In some cases, the ratio of the total radial surface area of ​​area A3 to the side of projection P1 of the sealing member SM may be 0 to 1 in some cases, 0.25 to 0.75 in others, and approximately 0.5 in others. When the ratio is 1, all support for the sealing material SM is provided by projection P2 associated with the cover or head H, and there are configurations in which projection P1 is not provided or does not overlap with the sealing material SM.In configurations where the projection P1 has an area smaller than the area of ​​the corresponding receiving portion R2, or where the projection P1 is not provided or is provided in a position that does not support the sealing member, the radial support of the sealing material SM in the installed state is reduced, but such configurations may still be satisfactory under certain installation and operating conditions. Furthermore, an advantage of providing a projection P1 with an area smaller than the area of ​​the corresponding receiving portion R2 is that the accuracy of the initial alignment between the filter element and the cover may be low.

[0326] The above represents illustrative principles. Many embodiments can be created using these principles.

Claims

1. A filter assembly, (a) A filter cartridge having a filter medium and a first end cap that holds a sealing member arranged in the axial direction, (b) End configurations sized to engage with the filter cartridge and form a seal with the sealing member, (c) A rotation prevention configuration constructed and arranged to prevent the filter cartridge and the end configuration from rotating relative to each other. A filter assembly comprising the following features.

2. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein the end configuration includes a cover.

3. The filter assembly according to claim 2, further comprising a filter head, wherein the cover is removably received within the filter head.

4. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein the end configuration comprises a filter head.

5. The anti-rotation configuration includes a projection and a receiving configuration, as described in any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The filter assembly according to claim 5, wherein the projection and receiving portion configuration are positioned to provide less support than complete radial support to the sealing member.

7. The filter assembly according to claim 5, wherein the sealing member is supported along at least several locations along the inner or outer radial side surface of the sealing member, or along both the inner and outer radial sides.

8. The filter assembly according to claim 7, wherein the anti-rotation configuration includes a first assembly on the filter cartridge and a second assembly on the end configuration.

9. The first assembly of the anti-rotation configuration is (a) Outer ring having projections and receiving portions surrounding the sealing member Includes, (b) Each of the projections within the outer ring defines a closed area, (c) Each of the receiving portions within the outer ring defines an open area, (d) The ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1. The filter assembly according to claim 8.

10. The second assembly of the anti-rotation configuration is (a) First hub ring with projection and receiving portion Includes, (b) Each of the projections in the first hub ring defines a closed area, (c) Each of the receiving portions within the first hub ring defines an open area, (d) The ratio of the open area to the closed area of ​​the first hub ring is 1 to 1.

3. The filter assembly according to claim 9.

11. The filter assembly according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the first assembly of the anti-rotation configuration on the filter cartridge includes an inner ring having a projection and a receiving portion radially inward of the sealing member such that the sealing member is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring.

12. The filter assembly according to claim 11, wherein the second assembly of the anti-rotation configuration on the end configuration includes a second hub ring having a projection and a receiving portion radially inward of the first hub ring, and when the end configuration is engaged with the filter cartridge, the sealing member is located between the first hub ring and the second hub ring.

13. (a) The filter cartridge includes a cartridge thread, (b) The end configuration includes an end configuration thread positioned to rotatably engage with the cartridge thread, A filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 12.

14. The filter assembly according to claim 13, wherein the first and second assemblies of the anti-rotation configuration are positioned to engage before the cartridge threads and end configuration threads engage.

15. (a) The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of the pleated medium that surrounds the inside of the open filter and extends between the first end cap and the second end cap, (b) The first end cap has an opening that communicates with the inside of the open filter, A filter assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

16. A filter assembly, (a) End configuration, (i) A hub having a surrounding wall that encloses the opening, (ii) The surrounding wall having an end axial surface, (iii) Hub outer ring with projections spaced apart in the circumferential direction End configuration including, (b) A filter cartridge having a filter medium and an end cap configuration for holding a sealing member, wherein the end cap configuration is nested with the outer ring of the hub to fix the filter cartridge and the end configuration in the rotational direction, and A filter assembly comprising the following features.

17. The filter assembly according to claim 16, wherein the end cap configuration includes an outer ring protrusion configuration that nests with the outer ring of the hub having projections arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, and the outer ring protrusion configuration of the filter cartridge is positioned to support the sealing member in the radial direction.

18. The filter assembly according to claim 16, wherein the hub further includes an inner hub ring having projections spaced apart in the circumferential direction, the inner hub ring being spaced radially apart from the outer hub ring and surrounded by the outer hub ring.

19. The filter assembly according to claim 17, wherein the end cap configuration includes an inner ring protrusion configuration, the inner ring protrusion configuration is radially inward of the outer ring protrusion configuration and is spaced apart from the outer ring protrusion configuration, and the sealing member is located between the outer ring protrusion configuration and the inner ring protrusion configuration.

20. (a) The outer ring protrusion configuration on the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of outer cogs spaced apart in the circumferential direction, (b) The inner ring protrusion configuration on the filter cartridge comprises a plurality of inner cogs spaced apart in the circumferential direction, (c) The outer cog is sized to nest between the outer ring projections of the hub, and the inner cog is sized to nest between the inner ring projections of the hub. The filter assembly according to claim 17.

21. The filter assembly according to claim 20, wherein the number of hub outer ring protrusions is different from the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge.

22. The filter assembly according to claim 20, wherein the number of hub outer ring protrusions is less than the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge.

23. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the number of inner ring protrusions on the hub is different from the number of spaced inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

24. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the number of inner ring protrusions on the hub is less than the number of spaced inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

25. (a) The number of hub outer ring protrusions is equal to the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge, (b) The number of inner ring projections on the hub is equal to the number of inner cogs spaced apart on the filter cartridge. The filter assembly according to claim 20.

26. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the number of projections on the outer ring of the hub is equal to the number of projections on the inner ring of the hub.

27. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the number of projections on the outer ring of the hub is different from the number of projections on the inner ring of the hub.

28. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge is equal to the number of spaced inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

29. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 20 to 25, wherein the number of spaced outer cogs on the filter cartridge is different from the number of spaced inner cogs on the filter cartridge.

30. (a) The filter medium includes a cylindrical extension of a pleated medium that surrounds the inside of the open filter and extends between the first end cap and the second end cap, (b) The end cap configuration is an integrally molded portion of the first end cap. A filter assembly according to any one of claims 16 to 29.

31. (a) The first end cap has an opening that communicates with the inside of the open filter, (b) The end cap configuration is located on the axial portion of the first end cap and surrounds the opening, (c) The opening of the hub communicates with the opening of the first end cap and the inside of the open filter. The filter assembly according to claim 30.

32. (a) A housing for removably holding the filter cartridge, the housing having a screw portion, (b) End configuration having a threaded portion positioned to connect to the housing threaded portion and The filter assembly according to claim 17, further comprising the above.

33. (a) There is a distance D1 between the starting position of the housing screw portion and the tip of the end of the protruding component, (b) There is a distance D2 between the starting position of the end component thread and the tip of the end of the projection, (c) Distance D1 is greater than distance D2. The filter assembly according to claim 32.

34. It is a filter cartridge, (a) A tubular media pack defining the interior of an open medium, having a first end and an opposing second end, (b) A central longitudinal axis located in the center of the tubular media pack and passing through the first end and the second end, (c) End configuration fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack, (d) A sealing member fixed to the axial portion of the end configuration, (e) A rotation prevention configuration for minimizing or preventing twisting of the sealing member when the filter cartridge is fixed to either the filter cover or the filter head; A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

35. The filter cartridge according to claim 34, wherein the anti-rotation configuration is fixed to the end configuration or is integrated with the end configuration.

36. The filter cartridge according to claim 34 or 35, wherein the anti-rotation configuration is located on the axial portion of the end configuration adjacent to the sealing member.

37. The filter cartridge according to claim 36, wherein the anti-rotation configuration includes a plurality of protrusions located between the sealing member and the outer circumference of the end configuration.

38. The filter cartridge according to claim 37, wherein the plurality of protrusions are separated by receiving portions arranged on an outer ring surrounding the sealing member.

39. (a) Each of the projections within the outer ring having the projections defines a closed area, (b) Each of the receiving portions within the outer ring having the receiving portion defines an open area, (c) The ratio of the open area to the closed area is 0.2 to 1.

0. The filter cartridge according to claim 38.

40. (a) The end configuration further includes a series of inner, circumferentially spaced projections separated by a receiving portion located on the inner ring, wherein the inner ring is radially inward of the outer ring and spaced apart from the outer ring, (b) The sealing member is located between the outer ring and the inner ring, The filter cartridge according to claim 38 or 39.

41. (a) Each of the projections in the inner ring having the projections defines a closed area, (b) Each of the receiving portions within the inner ring having the receiving portion defines an open area, (c) The ratio of the open area of ​​the inner ring to the closed area of ​​the inner ring is 0.2 to 1.

0. The filter cartridge according to claim 40.

42. (a) The end configuration comprises a first end cap fixed to the first end of the media pack, (b) The first end cap has a first axial surface oriented away from the media pack and a second axial surface oriented toward the media pack, (c) The outer ring, the inner ring, and the sealing member are located on the first axial surface, The filter cartridge according to claim 40 or 41.

43. The filter cartridge according to claim 42, wherein the first end cap has an open opening that communicates with the inside of the open medium.

44. The filter cartridge according to claim 43, wherein the inner ring is positioned radially away from the open opening and surrounds the open opening.

45. The filter cartridge according to claim 42 or 43, wherein the outer ring is along the outer edge of the first end cap.

46. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein the number of projections in the outer ring, which has spaced projections, is equal to the number of projections in the inner ring.

47. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein the number of projections in the outer ring, which has spaced projections, is different from the number of projections in the inner ring.

48. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 47, wherein each of the projections of the outer ring has the same shape as each of the projections of the inner ring.

49. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein each of the projections of the outer ring has a shape different from the shape of each of the projections of the inner ring.

50. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein each of the projections of the outer ring has a triangular shape.

51. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 42 to 48, wherein each of the projections of the inner ring has a triangular shape.

52. A method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end configuration, wherein the filter end configuration is either a filter head or a filter cover, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted within a housing, the filter cartridge having a plurality of cartridge projections and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter end configuration, and the filter end configuration having a plurality of end configuration projections and receiving portions positioned to engage with the filter cartridge. The aforementioned method, (a) Positioning the cartridge projection so as to be at least partially received within the receiving portion of the end configuration, thereby enabling the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end configuration; (b) After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration, the step of engaging the threads on the housing with the threads on the end configuration, (c) The step of rotating the housing relative to the end configuration in order to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration, A method that includes this.

53. (a) The filter cartridge includes a sealing member mounted axially adjacent to the cartridge projection and the receiving portion, (b) The step of connecting the filter assembly to the filter end configuration includes the step of supporting the sealing member radially between the cartridge projection and the end configuration projection, The method according to claim 52.

54. It is a filter cartridge, (a) A tubular media pack defining the interior of an open medium, having a first end and an opposing second end, (b) A central longitudinal axis located in the center of the tubular media pack and passing through the first end and the second end, (c) An end cap fixed to the first end of the tubular media pack, (d) A sealing member fixed to the axial portion of the end cap, (e) A plurality of first projections extending axially from the end cap, provided in a circumferential arrangement and located close to the radial side surface of the sealing member A filter cartridge equipped with this feature.

55. The filter cartridge according to claim 54, wherein the first plurality of protrusions surround the sealing member.

56. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions are surrounded by the sealing member.

57. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions extend axially beyond the sealing member.

58. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein each of the first plurality of protrusions has a similar shape.

59. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions include one or more protrusions that are different from one or more other protrusions.

60. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of projections have one of the following shapes: triangular, trapezoidal, rectangular with flat, rounded, or pointed ends, and curved.

60. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions have a symmetrical shape.

61. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions have an asymmetrical shape.

62. The filter cartridge according to claim 54 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of protrusions are separated by the first plurality of receiving gaps.

63. The filter cartridge according to claim 62, wherein each of the first plurality of receiving gaps has a similar shape.

64. The filter cartridge according to claim 62 or any other prior claim, wherein the first plurality of receiving gaps include one or more receiving gaps that are different from one or more other receiving gaps.

65. The filter cartridge according to claim 62, wherein each of the first plurality of protrusions has a similar shape, and each of the gaps between the first plurality of receiving parts has a similar shape.

66. The filter cartridge according to claim 54, wherein the circumferential arrangement includes a second plurality of protrusions arranged in the circumferential direction.

67. The filter cartridge according to claim 66, wherein the first plurality of protrusions surround the sealing member, and the sealing member surrounds the second plurality of protrusions.

68. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the vertices of the first plurality of protrusions are radially aligned with the vertices of the second plurality of protrusions.

69. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or 67, wherein the vertices of the first plurality of protrusions are not radially aligned with the vertices of the second plurality of protrusions.

70. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or any other prior claim, wherein the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have the same shape as the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

71. The filter cartridge according to claim 66 or any other prior claim, wherein the protrusions of the first plurality of protrusions have a shape different from the shape of the protrusions of the second plurality of protrusions.

72. A method for connecting a filter assembly to a filter end configuration, wherein the filter end configuration is either a filter head or a filter cover, the filter assembly includes a filter cartridge removably mounted within a housing, the filter cartridge has an axially mounted sealing member, and the filter end configuration has a plurality of end configuration projections positioned to engage with the filter cartridge. The aforementioned method, (a) Positioning the filter cartridge such that the sealing member is at least partially received within the end component projection, thereby enabling the filter cartridge to move axially toward the end component; (b) After the filter cartridge has moved axially toward the end configuration, the step of engaging the threads on the housing with the threads on the end configuration, (c) A step of rotating the housing relative to the end configuration in order to screw the filter assembly to the filter end configuration such that the end configuration projections radially support the side surface of the sealing member of the filter cartridge, A method that includes this.

73. (a) The end configuration includes a plurality of end configuration receiving portions, the filter cartridge includes a plurality of filter cartridge protrusions*, and the step of positioning the filter cartridge includes the step of positioning the filter cartridge such that the plurality of filter cartridge protrusions are received by the end configuration receiving portions. The method according to claim 72.

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