Filter elements, associated filter assemblies, and filter packages

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a filter element comprising a filter medium pack including a longitudinal axis and a first open end cap disposed at a first axial end of the filter medium pack including a central opening, wherein the first end cap is at least partially flexible and nondestructively deformable in the radial direction and comprises a circumferential seal surrounding the opening in the circumferential direction, the circumferential seal comprising one or more radial seal extensions and comprising one or more, preferably separate, reinforcing structures at least partially embedded in the material of the first end cap and preferably disposed within the area of ​​each of the one or more radial seal extensions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Related Applications This application claims the priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 507,039, filed on June 8, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. This application also claims the priority of European Patent Application No. 23213143.3, filed on November 29, 2023, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] This disclosure relates to the field of gas filtration, such as air filtration. The present invention relates to the field of filter assemblies comprising a filter element hermetically disposed within a filter housing such that air passing from an inlet of the filter housing to an outlet of the housing is filtered by the filter element. Preferably, the assembly is later used to filter air directed, for example, to a vehicle engine.

Background Art

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

[0004] In fact, in many cases, it is desirable to filter contaminants from the fluid stream. For example, air flows to engines for electric vehicles or power generation equipment, construction equipment, or other equipment, gas flows to gas turbine systems, and air flows to various combustion furnaces carry particulate contaminants internally. In such systems, it is preferable that the contaminants are removed from the fluid or at least reduced.

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

[0006] The industry needs a new solution that allows for the easy installation of the correct filter elements within a filter housing, particularly in complex filter housing designs, and prevents the installation of incorrect filter elements. Complex filter housing designs can result from boundary conditions imposed, for example, by the geometric shapes and positioning of other vehicle / engine components.

[0007] Furthermore, the industry requires compact packaging for filter elements and filter housings.

[0008] Furthermore, the industry requires filter elements with a higher ratio of filter medium volume to internal housing volume.

[0009] Furthermore, solutions that reduce the weight of filter elements and the amount of material used are highly valued in the industry for both economic and ecological purposes.

[0010] Furthermore, a filter housing and assembly are required that allow for easy removal of the housing cover and facilitate the precise positioning of the housing cover within the housing.

[0011] To avoid damage to equipment or engines that utilize filtered air / gas, it is generally important to install the correct filter elements in the correct manner for a particular filter housing.

[0012] Furthermore, there is an industry need for filter assemblies that allow inspection from the inside without the need to remove the installed filter elements.

[0013] Furthermore, there is an industry need for filter assemblies that allow for inspection of installed filter elements while reducing the risk of damaging the seal of the filter elements to the main housing. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0014] This disclosure relates to a filter element, a package comprising such a filter element, an assembly comprising such a filter element, and a housing cover for advantageous use with such a filter element.

[0015] The present invention is defined in the appended independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a filter element is disclosed, the filter element including a filter medium pack having a longitudinal axis, and a first open end cap liquid-tightly positioned at a first axial end of the filter medium pack and including a central opening. The first end cap comprises a circumferential seal surrounding the opening, which is at least partially flexible in the radial direction and non-destructively, preferably elastically deformable between a first shape (or state, e.g., an undeformed state corresponding to a first configuration of the element) and a second shape (or state, e.g., a deformed state such as a curved side or portion becoming flat or curving in the opposite direction, corresponding to a second configuration of the element), and a circumferential seal comprising one or more radial seal extensions (radial seal extensions), and one or more, preferably separate reinforcing structures (or covering structures or shells) at least partially embedded in the material of the first end cap and preferably positioned in the area of ​​each of the one or more radial seal extensions.

[0017] One or more, preferably separate, reinforcing structures can be positioned at each location of the radial seal extension.

[0018] The reinforcing structure can be partially or completely embedded in the material of the first end cap. In the example, one or more reinforcing structures are formed separately and placed in the mold of the first end cap so that the end cap material is overmolded into a portion of the reinforcing structure. In the example, the material of one or more reinforcing structures is different from the material of the first end cap. In some examples, the reinforcing structures can be formed separately and attached to the end cap by various means. For example, the reinforcing structure can be formed with an interaction mechanism that snaps into or slides into a corresponding mechanism of the end cap, such as a protrusion and groove configuration. The reinforcing structure can also be bonded or attached to the end cap by connection or other means, such as adhesives and mechanical fasteners. The reinforcing structure can also be attached via a welding process.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, one or more reinforcing structures are partially embedded in the material of the first end cap, and each reinforcing structure covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial extension of the seal, the portion including at least the radially inner or outer surface of the radial seal extension, preferably the first axial end face of the radial extension, the first axial end face projecting toward the second axial end of the filter medium pack.

[0020] An advantage is that it allows for the installation of the disclosed filter elements, but does not allow for the installation of standard filter elements, thus enabling the design of a filter housing that avoids the use or incorrect installation of the wrong filter elements. A further advantage is that the disclosed filter elements can be used in a relatively complex and compact housing configuration. In addition, the disclosed filter elements can be packaged more compactly.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter media pack is also flexible and deformable non-destructively, and possibly elastically, for example, radially. This may include, for example, a pleated medium in which the filter media is arranged in a tubular shape.

[0022] Such filter elements do not include an inner or outer liner that reduces the flexibility and resilience of the first end cap or exposes it to danger. Inner and outer liners are typically provided to support the filter medium in use when subject to a significant differential pressure.

[0023] Filter elements without an integrated inner and / or outer liner have the advantages of containing less material, being easier and less costly to manufacture, and being more environmentally friendly.

[0024] In an alternative embodiment, the filter medium pack itself is not flexible and / or non-destructively deformable, and the end caps are arranged and adapted to be flexible and non-destructively deformable. This can be the case, for example, when the filter medium comprises a grooved (also called z-type) medium (without an inner and / or outer liner).

[0025] For the purposes of the present disclosure, a filter element, seal, end cap, or filter medium pack can be non-destructively deformed if the deformation of the respective article does not affect its integrity or performance. Preferably, each article is flexible, and even more preferably, each article is elastically deformable within the boundaries necessary to perform its function, for example, to fit into a filter housing that is initially too small or other openings for servicing, or to conform itself to a filter housing cavity of a different shape but having sufficient volume. An article is elastically deformable if it returns to its original non-deformed state after being deformed.

[0026] An elastically deformable end cap has the advantage that, for example, for the installation or packaging of the filter element into an air cleaner housing, the end cap and optionally the filter medium pack automatically return to their original positions after being deformed, resulting in the corresponding first configuration of the filter element.

[0027] For the purposes of the present disclosure, the circumferential seal (or seal surface) is respectively that which surrounds each opening such as a central opening or a first end cap, or is provided around each opening or is a seal (or seal surface). The circumferential seal and the associated circumferential seal surface within the filter housing cooperate to provide an airtight seal.

[0028] For the purposes of the present disclosure, "composite structure" refers to a combination of a radially extending portion and an associated reinforcing structure.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the circumferential seal is adapted and arranged to seal radially, and the reinforcing structure is adapted and arranged to line the radially extending seal extension of the circumferential seal.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the seal measured in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is substantially constant or constant. In some examples, the seal thickness is variable. In some examples, the thickness of the seal material at the position of the radially extending seal extension is relatively thinner than at other positions.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the thickness of the seal measured in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is within the range of 5 mm to 20 mm.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, one or more or all of the radially extending seal extensions extend radially outward. When the thickness of the seal measured in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is substantially constant or constant, one or more of the radially extending seal extensions include a radially outward step.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, one or more or all of the radially extending seal extensions extend radially inward. When the thickness of the seal measured in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is substantially constant or constant, one or more of the radially extending seal extensions include a radially inward step.

[0034] The relative height of the step in the radial seal extension is measured radially between the inner surface of the seal at the extension position and the virtual contour of the seal without the seal extension at each seal extension position, and is preferably 25% to 200% or 50% to 150% of a certain thickness of the seal measured perpendicular to the axial direction. According to a particular embodiment, the height of the step in the radial seal extension is the same as or approximately the same as a certain thickness of the seal measured perpendicular to the axial direction.

[0035] The absolute height of the step in the radial seal extension can be, for example, 1 mm to 40 mm, 2 mm to 20 mm, or 5 mm to 15 mm, and larger values ​​are not excluded.

[0036] According to a particular embodiment, one or more radial seal extensions extend radially inward, and one or more radial seal extensions extend radially outward. In a particular embodiment, there are two radial seal extensions, one of which extends inward and the other which extends outward.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the seal generally follows an axial projection substantially concentric with the outer and / or inner contour of the filter medium pack, except for, for example, one or more radial seal extensions.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the seal of the first configuration of the end cap may have a cross-section along a plane perpendicular to the filter element, which may be circular, rectangular, rounded rectangular, oval, or elliptical, or it may have other regular shapes except for one or more radial seal extensions.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, two or more radial seal extensions coincide and have, for example, the same thickness (axial range), width (angular range), and depth (radial range, step height direction). For example, the axial projections of one or more radial seal extensions may coincide. In an alternative embodiment, the axial projections of two or more radial seal extensions differ in one or more of their width and depth.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the second shape of the first open end cap is at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30% smaller than the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the first shape.

[0041] According to a preferred embodiment, the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the second shape of the first open end cap is at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 5 cm smaller than the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the first shape of the first open end cap.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter element comprises only two radial seal extensions positioned on diametrically opposed sides of the circumferential seal.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the radial seal extensions (e.g., two) of the second shape is at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30% smaller than the distance of the first shape.

[0044] For example, the distance between the radial seal extensions (e.g., two) of the second shape is at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 5 cm smaller than the distance of the first shape.

[0045] In certain embodiments, for example, the seal extensions can be brought closer together by deforming the seal to position them under or within an undercut (e.g., a cavity) in the filter housing, and the seal extensions then snap outward into place in the filter housing when released.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the radial seal extensions (e.g., two) of the second shape is at least 5%, or at least 10%, or at least 15%, or at least 20%, or at least 25%, or at least 30% greater than the distance of the first shape.

[0047] For example, the distance between the radial seal extensions (e.g., two) of the second shape is at least 5 mm, or at least 10 mm, or at least 15 mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 25 mm, or at least 5 cm greater than the distance of the first shape.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the distance between seal extensions can be increased, for example, by deforming the seal to position the seal extensions below or inside an undercut (e.g., a cavity) within the filter housing, and the seal extensions then snap inward into a predetermined position within the filter housing when released.

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the first end cap can be deformed radially by a radial force component of less than 40 N, or less than 30 N, or less than 20 N, or less than 10 N (e.g., more than 5%, or more than 10%, or more than 15%). Further, the filter element is fitted with a media pack and a first end cap which, when in a first shape, has a first width at a first position of the radial seal extension and reinforcing structure, and when in a second shape, has a second width at the first position. In some examples, for example, when the filter element is provided without an inner liner and an outer liner, the end cap and media pack can be deformed radially non-destructively by an applied radial force component of 25 N or less, and possibly 15 N or less, such that the second width differs from the first width by at least 5%. In some examples, the second width differs from the first width by at least 10% by an applied radial force component of 45 N or less, and possibly 25 N or less.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the reinforcing structure is made of a relatively hard material. Preferably, the reinforcing structure includes materials ranging from medium-hard to hard and super-hard. A known Shore-A durometer scale or Shore-D durometer scale can be used to express and measure the hardness of the material. In the embodiment, the reinforcing structure has a durometer measured on a Shore-A scale of 60-100, preferably 70-100, more preferably 80-100, or, when measured on a Shore-D scale, a durometer between 0-100, preferably 15-100, more preferably 30-100. In the embodiment, the reinforcing structure has a material hardness greater than the material hardness of the end cap portion that forms the seal.

[0051] In the embodiment, the reinforcing structure includes or is made of rigid plastic.

[0052] In other embodiments, the reinforcing structure includes a thermoplastic resin, such as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA), or polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0053] Therefore, the deformable end cap is not deformable (e.g., radially) in the region of the reinforcing structure or shell, but is deformable outside the region of the shell to accommodate the radial displacement of the reinforcing structure. Similarly, the deformable end cap is also not deformable (e.g., radially) in the region of the radial seal extension. In other words, each reinforcing structure provides structural integrity to the portion of the end cap such that the end cap deforms radially at an adjacent position when the reinforcing structure is displaced radially inward.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, each reinforcing structure includes a hollow cavity in its second axial end face, the second axial end face projecting (or exposed) in the same direction as the first end of the filter medium pack.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the second axial end face faces the first axial end face in the axial direction.

[0056] Preferably, the hollow cavity is bag-shaped, has an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter element, and has an opening facing away from the media pack.

[0057] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter medium pack comprises a pleated filter medium, preferably arranged in a tubular shape, and is flexible, and preferably elastically deformable. For example, the filter medium comprises one or more layers selected from the group of medium layers and medium support layers. The latter differs from a liner structure in that it provides support for holding the medium together in place without pressure difference and is suitable for holding the filter medium in place when the liner is in use and when it is subjected to substantial pressure difference.

[0058] Preferably, the pleating medium is arranged in a tubular shape with a pleating direction parallel to the longitudinal filter element axis in at least the first configuration of the element.

[0059] According to other embodiments, the filter media pack is grooved or z-shaped and can be wound or stacked, for example.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the first end cap and preferably the circumferential seal are also manufactured by a potting process, preferably a foamed polyurethane potting process, thereby embedding part of one or more separate reinforcing structures into the first end cap.

[0061] Preferably, the circumferential seal is formed integrally with the first end cap.

[0062] Preferably, the circumferential seal includes or consists of polyurethane (e.g., foamed polyurethane).

[0063] In certain embodiments, the first end cap and / or circumferential seal includes or consists of TPE (thermoplastic elastomer).

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the first circumferential seal has two rotational symmetries with respect to the filter medium pack axis.

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, the first circumferential seal has one rotational symmetry with respect to the filter medium pack axis.

[0066] According to a particular embodiment, the filter element comprises grooves extending axially on the radial outer surface of the media pack, preferably extending from a first end to a second end.

[0067] According to a particular embodiment, the filter element comprises a second end cap at a second end of the filter medium pack. The second end cap can be a closed end cap or an open end cap. When the second end cap is open, it may comprise a central opening and a second circumferential seal. The second end cap may be rigid or flexible and nondestructively deformable, for example, elastically deformable. The second end cap and optionally the second circumferential seal may contain the same material as the first end cap and can generally be manufactured in the same manner as the first end cap.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the second end cap may be configured according to any of the embodiments disclosed with respect to the first end cap.

[0069] A second aspect of the present disclosure discloses a package comprising a box, bag, or sleeve having a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, wherein the filter element is maintained in an elastically deformable configuration by the inner sidewall of the box, bag, or sleeve.

[0070] A third aspect of this disclosure discloses a filter assembly configured to take advantage of a filter element according to a particular embodiment of the first aspect of this disclosure.

[0071] Generally, a filter assembly is disclosed which includes a filter housing adapted and positioned to receive a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, the filter housing including one or more undercuts or cavities for receiving a composite structure of the filter element, thereby allowing the relevant filter element to be installed (and thus able to receive the composite structure) only by deforming the first end cap of the filter element.

[0072] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed, comprising a filter housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing and a housing cover, the housing cover comprising an outer liner structure for a filter element having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the housing cover into the internal cavity, the outer liner structure receiving the filter element and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end to the housing cover, the outer liner structure comprising one or more cavities adapted and positioned at its distal end to receive one or more composite structures, each embodied by one or more radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the filter element comprises grooves extending axially on the radial outer surface of the media pack, and the outer liner structure comprises corresponding axially extending ribs or guide structures located on the inner surface of the outer liner.

[0074] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed, comprising a filter housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing and a housing cover, the main filter housing comprising a filter maintenance opening defined by the circumferential end of the main filter housing, the circumferential end comprising one or more receiving cavities for receiving the respective composite structures embodied by the respective radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures of the filter element.

[0075] In certain embodiments, the reinforcing structure comprises radially outward-extending ribs, the cavity comprises corresponding cavity slots for receiving the radially outward-extending ribs and allowing the radially outward-extending ribs to pass through and be exposed to the outside of the main housing, and the housing cover comprises latches, the latches for each exposed portion of the radially outward-extending ribs.

[0076] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed, comprising a filter housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing and a housing cover, the main filter housing comprising an inner liner for a filter element having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the main housing into the internal cavity, the inner liner structure being received by the internal cavity of the filter element and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end in the main housing, the inner liner comprising one or more cavities at its distal end being adapted and positioned to receive one or more composite structures, each embodied by one or more radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures.

[0077] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed comprising a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect and a separate, removable outer liner for the filter element, the outer liner extending axially between a first axial end and a second axial end and having an internal volume for receiving the filter element, the outer liner having one or more cavities at the first axial end for receiving one or more respective composite structures embodied by the respective radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures of the filter element.

[0078] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed comprising a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect and a separate removable inner liner for the filter element, the inner liner extending axially between a first axial end and a second axial end, the filter element having an internal volume for receiving the inner liner, the inner liner having one or more cavities at the first axial end for receiving one or more respective composite structures embodied by the respective radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures of the filter element.

[0079] Preferably, in any of the above-described embodiments of the filter assembly, one or more cavities form undercut portions that prevent the composite structure from being inserted into the cavities without deforming the filter elements.

[0080] According to a particular embodiment, a filter assembly is disclosed, comprising a filter housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element according to any embodiment of the first aspect, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing and a housing cover, the housing cover comprising an outer liner structure for a filter element having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the housing cover into the internal cavity, the outer liner structure receiving the filter element and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end to the housing cover, the outer liner structure having one or more undercut portions at its distal end, and a composite structure embodied by one or more radial seal extensions and associated reinforcing structures being adapted and arranged to prevent the filter element from passing from one side of the undercut portion to the other without deformation.

[0081] In certain embodiments, the filter element comprises grooves extending axially on the radial outer surface of the media pack, and the outer liner structure comprises corresponding axially extending ribs or guide structures located on the inner surface of the outer liner.

[0082] In some exemplary embodiments, the air purifier assembly includes a housing, a cover, and a media pack, wherein the outer support structure and / or inner support structure of the media pack are partially or entirely included in the cover.

[0083] In some exemplary embodiments, the air purifier assembly includes a housing, a cover, and a media pack, wherein the internal support structure for the media pack is included in the cover, and the air purifier assembly has a side-load configuration in which the media pack is installed through a service opening in the side wall of the housing.

[0084] In some exemplary embodiments, the air purifier assembly includes a housing, a cover, and a media pack, the internal support structure of the media pack includes locking means for securing the cover to the housing.

[0085] In some exemplary embodiments, the air purifier assembly includes a housing, a cover, and a media pack, the media pack having a sealing member with a radially outward-facing sealing surface, and the internal support structure of the media pack extending along the radially inward side of the sealing member.

[0086] In one exemplary configuration, a side-loaded air purifier assembly may include a main housing extending along a longitudinal axis and defining an internal volume; a service opening extending through the side of the main housing such that the service opening is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; a media pack insertable into the internal volume of the main housing through the service opening, the media pack having an open internal area and containing a tubular filter medium extending between a first end cap and a second end cap; and a cover including a cover portion for covering the service opening and containing an internal support structure extending into the open internal area of ​​the filter medium.

[0087] In some cases, the internal support structure is separable from the cover.

[0088] In some examples, the internal support structure includes locking means for securing the cover portion to the main housing.

[0089] In some examples, the first end cap of the media pack defines a sealing member that defines a radially outward-facing sealing surface that forms a seal with a radially inward-facing sealing surface of the main housing.

[0090] In some examples, the internal support structure extends radially inward of the sealing member so that the sealing member is positioned radially between the internal support structure and the main housing.

[0091] In some examples, the second end cap forms a seal with the inner support structure.

[0092] In some examples, the second end cap is an open end cap, and the inner support structure closes the open end cap.

[0093] In some examples, an external support structure is provided, extending around the outer circumference of the filter medium and supporting the outer circumference.

[0094] In some examples, the external support structure is pivotably fixed to the main housing.

[0095] In one example, an air purifier assembly may include a main housing defining an internal volume and a service opening; a media pack insertable into the internal volume of the main housing through the service opening, the media pack including a filter medium and a first end cap; and a cover including a cover portion for covering the service opening and an outer support structure that at least partially surrounds the outer periphery of the filter medium.

[0096] In some examples, the cover is rotatable relative to the main housing.

[0097] In some cases, the outer support structure is formed integrally with the cover portion.

[0098] In some cases, the outer support structure is separable from the cover.

[0099] In some examples, the first end cap defines a sealing member that defines a radially outward-facing sealing surface that forms a seal with a radially inward-facing sealing surface of the main housing.

[0100] In some examples, the main housing defines a service opening that extends through the side of the main housing such that the service opening is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0101] In some examples, the internal support structure extends into the open area of ​​the filter medium.

[0102] In some cases, the internal support structure can be attached to the external support structure.

[0103] In some examples, the internal support structure includes locking means for securing the cover to the main housing.

[0104] In some examples, the external support structure includes a first part related to the cover and a second part related to the main housing, and the first and second parts cooperate to support the outer circumference of the filter medium.

[0105] In some examples, the internal support structure extends into the open area of ​​the filter medium.

[0106] In some examples, the internal support structure is rotatably fixed to the main housing.

[0107] In some examples, the cover portion includes a first cover portion attached to or formed together with the outer support structure, and a second cover portion attached to or formed together with the inner support structure.

[0108] In some examples, the external support structure surrounds the entire circumference of the media pack.

[0109] In some examples, the external support structure includes an undercut feature that secures the media pack within the external support structure, and the media pack must be deformed to remove it from the external support structure.

[0110] The filter cartridge may include a tubular filter medium defining an open interior and extending between a first end and a second end, the tubular filter medium being tapered toward the first end and having an oval shape, and may include a first open end cap comprising a first seal member adjacent to the first end of the filter medium and defining a first radially oriented sealing surface, and a second open end cap comprising a second seal member adjacent to the second end of the filter medium and defining a second radially oriented sealing surface, wherein the filter medium is not supported and is provided without an inner liner and an outer liner so that the filter medium and at least one of the first and second open end caps are elastically deformable.

[0111] In some examples, the first end cap includes a groove for receiving the end of the inner liner.

[0112] In some examples, the first radially oriented sealing surface is a sealing surface oriented radially outward.

[0113] The filter element may comprise a filter medium pack including a longitudinal axis, and a first open end cap liquid-tightly positioned at a first axial end of the filter medium pack, including a central opening, and including a circumferential seal surrounding the opening, the circumferential seal including a radial seal extension, wherein the first end cap is nondestructively deformable in a first radial direction between an undeformed state and a deformed state, and the end cap has a first width along the first axis passing through the longitudinal axis and the radial seal extension when in the first shape, and a second width along the first axis when in the deformed state, the second width differs from the first width by at least 5% when a radial force component of 25 N or less is applied.

[0114] In some cases, the second width differs from the first width by at least 10% when a radial force of 45N or less is applied.

[0115] In some examples, the reinforcing structure is fixed to the end cap in close proximity to the radial seal extension, and the reinforcing structure prevents deformation of the radial seal extension when the first end cap is in a deformed state.

[0116] In some examples, the first end cap has a third width that is perpendicular to the first axis and extends along a second axis passing through the longitudinal axis, and the first end cap can be deformed from an undeformed state to a deformed state without requiring a change in the third width.

[0117] In some examples, the air filter element is provided without an inner liner and / or without an outer liner.

[0118] In some examples, the first end cap has one rotational symmetry.

[0119] The present invention is defined at least in part by the appended independent claims. The dependent claims define advantageous embodiments.

[0120] These and further aspects of the present disclosure will be described in more detail, for example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0121] Figures 1a and 1b, Figures 2 to 4, Figures 5a to 5c, Figures 6a and 6b, Figure 7, and Figures 8a and 8b illustrate one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0122] [Figure 1a] This is a perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1b] This is a perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a top perspective view of a filter element installed on the outer liner of an outer liner cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] This is an axial section view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]This is a perspective axial section view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5a] This is a perspective view of a filter element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5b] This is a perspective view of a filter element according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5c] This is an oblique cross-section. [Figure 6a] This is a partially cut perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6b] This is a partially cut perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] This is a partially cut perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8a] This is a partially cut perspective view of a main housing component according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8b] This is a partially transparent perspective view of a main housing component according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9a] Preferred manufacturing processes for filter elements according to various embodiments are shown. [Figure 9b] Preferred manufacturing processes for filter elements according to various embodiments are shown. [Figure 9c] Preferred manufacturing processes for filter elements according to various embodiments are shown. [Figure 10a] The characteristics of optional housing cover selection in various embodiments are shown. [Figure 10b] The characteristics of optional housing cover selection in various embodiments are shown. [Figure 11a] This is a partially cut perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11b] This is a perspective view of a filter assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12c]This is a detailed view of the axial section. [Figure 12d] This is an axial section view. [Figure 13a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13c] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14a] This is a perspective view of a main housing, a filter element, and an outer liner cover, each having a filter element, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14b] This is a perspective view of a main housing, a filter element, and an outer liner cover, each having a filter element, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14c] This is a perspective view of a main housing, a filter element, and an outer liner cover, each having a filter element, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15c] This is a detailed view of the axial section. [Figure 15d] This is an axial section view. [Figure 16a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16b] This is a detailed view of Figure 16a. [Figure 16c] This is an axial section view. [Figure 16d] This is a detailed view of the axial section. [Figure 16e] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18a]This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19a] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19b] This is a perspective view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] This is a bottom view of an assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] This is a perspective view of an alternative filter element for use in the assembly of this disclosure. [Figure 22a] This is a perspective view of an alternative filter element for use in the assembly of this disclosure. [Figure 22b] This is a perspective view of an alternative filter element for use in the assembly of this disclosure. [Figure 23] Figure 23 shows a perspective view of an alternative filter element for use in the assembly of this disclosure. Figure 23 also shows its interaction with the main housing component. [Figure 24] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 25] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 26] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 27] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 28] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 29] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 29a] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 30] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 30a] This is a diagram of a filter element for use in an assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 31] This is a schematic diagram showing the elastic deformation mode of the filter element disclosed herein. [Figure 32] This is a schematic diagram showing the elastic deformation of the filter element disclosed herein. [Figure 33] This is a schematic diagram showing the elastic deformation of the filter element disclosed herein. [Figure 34a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 34b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 34c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 34d] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 34e] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 34f] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 35a] This is a schematic diagram of an air purifier assembly having the features described in this disclosure. [Figure 35b] This is a schematic diagram of an air purifier assembly having the features described in this disclosure. [Figure 35c] This is a schematic diagram of an air purifier assembly having the features described in this disclosure. [Figure 35d] This is a schematic diagram of an air purifier assembly having the features described in this disclosure. [Figure 36a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 36b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 36c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 37a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 37b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 37c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38d] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38e] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 38f] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 39a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 39b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 39c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 39d] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 39e] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 40a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 40b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 40c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 41a]This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 41b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 41c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 41d] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 41e] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 42a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 42b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 42c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 43a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 43b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 44a] This is a schematic diagram of the sealing arrangement and configuration that can be used in the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 44b] This is a schematic diagram of the sealing arrangement and configuration that can be used in the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 44c] This is a schematic diagram of the sealing arrangement and configuration that can be used in the embodiments of this disclosure. [Figure 45a] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 45b] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 45c] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 45d] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Figure 46] This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary air purifier assembly having the features described herein. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0123] The figures in the drawings are not drawn to scale, nor are they proportional. Generally, identical components are given the same reference numerals in the drawings.

[0124] This disclosure describes specific embodiments, which are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited by what is specifically shown and / or described, and alternative or modified embodiments may be developed in light of the overall teachings of this disclosure. The drawings described are schematic and non-limiting.

[0125] The use of the verb "to prepare" and its various conjugations does not exclude the existence of elements other than those stated. The use of the articles "a," "an," or "the" preceding an element does not exclude the existence of multiple such elements.

[0126] Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," etc., in this specification and the claims are used to distinguish similar elements and are not necessarily intended to describe a temporal, spatial, ranking, or other order. It should be understood that such terms are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances, and that embodiments of the disclosures described herein may operate in an order other than those described or illustrated herein.

[0127] Throughout this specification, any reference to “one embodiment” or “embodiment” means that certain features, structures, or characteristics described in relation to an embodiment are included in one or more embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, occurrences of the phrase “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various parts of this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but may do so. Furthermore, certain features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

[0128] As used herein, the term “axially” generally refers to a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X, and the term “radially” generally refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. As used herein, the term “radially inward” generally refers to a direction facing the longitudinal axis X, and the term “radially outward” generally refers to a direction facing outward from the longitudinal axis X.

[0129] The following drawings, presented and described below, specifically address embodiments of filter elements for filtering air, but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0130] Embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 8b Figures 1a and 1b, Figures 2 to 4, Figures 5a to 5c, Figures 6a and 6b, Figure 7, and Figures 8a and 8b illustrate a first preferred embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0131] Figures 5a to 5c show a filter element 2 according to a first preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. The filter element 2 comprises a filter medium pack 20 including a longitudinal axis and a first open end cap 24 liquid-tightly positioned at a first axial end E1 of the medium pack 20, and includes a central opening 26. A second end cap 25 liquid-tightly positioned at a second axial end E2 of the filter medium pack 20 is provided, which is a closed end cap 25. The first end cap 24 is at least partially flexible and elastically and nondestructively deformable, at least radially, for example, between a first shape and a substantially different second shape. The filter element further comprises a circumferential seal 22 surrounding the central opening 26. The circumferential seal comprises two radial seal extensions 221, which further comprises two separate reinforcing structures 21 partially embedded in the material of the first end cap 24. Each reinforcing structure 21 covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial extension 221 of the seal 22, including the radial outer surface 215 and the first axial end face 213 of the radial extension 221. The first axial end face 213 protrudes toward the second axial end E2 of the filter medium pack 20. As described elsewhere, the filter element 2 can be configured to have a single radial extension 221 and a reinforcing structure 21. Note that the outer circumference of the first end cap 24 has a continuously molded outer circumference profile, in this case a circular profile, but the reinforcing structure 21 is present. Therefore, each reinforcing structure 21 can be characterized by forming a deviation segment or portion that extends radially outside the outer circumference profile of the first end cap 21. In the illustrated example, the reinforcing structure 21 has a substantially trapezoidal shape with rounded corners to define the deviation segment or portion. However, the reinforcing structure 21 of the present disclosure may have other shapes, such as rectangular, irregularly curved, arc-shaped, semicircular, semi-hexagonal, and other semi-polygonal or substantially polygonal shapes. With such characterization, it can be said that the first end cap 21 has a continuous outer perimeter profile interrupted by one or more deviation segments that can extend radially outward.

[0132] The circumferential seal 22 is fitted and positioned to seal radially inward. The reinforcing structure 21 is positioned and fitted to back the radial extension 221 of the circumferential seal 22. The thickness of the seal 22 measured perpendicular to the axial direction is constant. Therefore, at the locations of the two reinforcing structures 21, the seal 22 forms a step on its radially outward side.

[0133] The seal 22 generally follows the outer contour of the filter media pack 20, except for two radial seal extensions 221. The axial projections of the seal 22 and the outer wall of the filter media pack are concentric except for the portions corresponding to the two radial seal extensions 221.

[0134] The composite structure, which includes the radial seal extension 221 and the reinforcing structure 21, is positioned on the side surface of the circumferential seal 22 that faces the diametrically opposed side.

[0135] Each reinforcing structure 21 includes one or more hollow cavities 212 in its second axial end face 214, the second axial end face 214 projecting in the same direction as the first end E1 of the filter medium pack. These hollow cavities 212 play a role in the manufacturing process and are exposed at the first end of the filter element 2.

[0136] The filter media pack 20 contains pleated filter media arranged in a tubular or cylindrical shape and is flexible. It does not include a rigid inner liner 14 or a rigid outer liner 110.

[0137] The end cap 24 is a potted polyurethane end cap molded onto the pleated filter media pack 20, with an integrated seal 22. A suitable molding process is shown in Figure 9. A mold M (Figure 9a) is provided to define the shapes of the end cap 24, the seal 22, and the radial seal extension 221. The mold M is equipped with coupling structures (such as projections or pins) in predetermined positions to be received by the hollow cavity 212 of the reinforcing structure 21 (Figure 9b). As a result, a separate reinforcing structure 21 (e.g., made of a rigid plastic material) can be positioned in a predetermined stable position within the mold M. The pleated filter media pack 20 is placed in the mold (Figure 9c) at its first axial end. Finally, polyurethane material is poured into the mold and cured to form the end cap 24, bonding the filter media to the end cap 24 and embedding a portion of the reinforcing structure 21.

[0138] The end cap 24 (together with the pleated filter media pack 20) ​​is elastically deformable, meaning that when deformed and released, it returns to its original shape. Its function will be described here in relation to the assembly shown in Figures 1a and 1b, Figures 2-4, and Figures 6-8.

[0139] Optionally, the first end cap 24 further comprises adjacent, preferably directly adjacent, circumferentially chamfered indentation surfaces 27 that surround the outer wall of the media pack 20 and are interrupted only by the respective parts of the reinforcing structure 21. The chamfered indentation surfaces 27 face the second end E2 of the media pack 20 and extend from a position closer to the outer wall of the filtration media pack 20 to a position further radially away from the outer wall of the filtration media pack 20 as they move toward the first end of the filtration media pack 20 or the filter element 2.

[0140] Alternatively, optionally, the first end cap 24 further comprises a circumferential indentation surface 27 facing the second end E2 of the media pack 20 and positioned adjacent to, preferably directly adjacent to, and surrounding the outer wall of the media pack 20, and interrupted only by each portion of the reinforcing structure 21. This indentation surface 27 is planar and may be substantially perpendicular to the filtration media pack axis or filter element axis. The indentation surface may also include, for example, a circumferential groove opening toward the second end E2 of the filtration media pack 20.

[0141] A first preferred embodiment of the assembly for use with the disclosed filter element comprises a filter housing 10, 11 having an inlet opening 13 and an outlet opening 12, and an internal cavity that sealably receives the disclosed filter element 2, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element. The filter housing comprises a main filter housing 10 and a housing cover 11. The housing cover 11 includes an outer liner structure 110 for the filter element 2 having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the housing cover 11 into the internal cavity. The outer liner structure 110 receives the filter element 2. The outer liner structure 110 comprises a proximal end in the housing cover 11 and an opposing distal end 112 defined by an edge 112a, the distal end comprising two cavities 111 fitted and positioned to receive the respective composite structures 21, 221 embodied by two radial seal extensions 221 and associated reinforcing structures 21. Both cavities 111 extend radially outward from the distal end of the outer liner structure 110 and are provided on the radially opposing side of the distal end of the outer liner structure 110. Each cavity (see Figure 2) is defined by or comprises an upper or axial end face or wall 110b that is positioned flat with the distal end of the outer liner structure 111 embodying an undercut. The cavity 111 further comprises a radially outward wall 111a and a side wall 111c that connects the walls 111b and 111a to the distal end of the outer liner structure 110. The cavity 111 opens toward the internal volume of the outer liner structure 110, preferably toward the second end E2 of the filter media pack 20, i.e., toward the proximal end of the outer liner structure 110 on the cover side (the latter to simplify the removal of the composite structure from each cavity during maintenance). On the opposite side of the wall or undercut 111b, and between the opening toward the internal volume and the opening toward the second end E2 of the filter media pack 20, there is a push-in rib 111d, which is part of the framework of the outer liner structure 110. The axial projections of the radial sealing surface of the cavity 111 and the seal 22 do not overlap.

[0142] When a new filter element is installed during maintenance, the filter element 2 is first installed in the outer liner structure 110 (see Figure 2). Thus, the first end cap 24 of the filter element 2 deforms by pushing each of the composite structures inward. The composite structures are moved into the cavity 111 under the undercut wall 111b and released again, allowing the end caps to snap back outward to their original configuration. This process can be applied, for example, to one composite structure at a time or both composite structures simultaneously, resulting in the filter element 2 being fixed to the outer liner structure 110, and therefore to the housing cover 11. This axially confines each composite structure between the undercut wall 111b and the indentation rib 111d.

[0143] Next, the housing cover 11 containing the filter element 2 can be placed on the main housing 10, thereby installing the filter element 2 within the main housing 10 as follows: The main housing 10 includes an inner liner structure 14 that is aligned with the housing outlet 12 and protrudes into the internal volume of the main housing along the inner liner axis. The inner liner 14 receives the filter element 2. The inner surface of the main housing 10 adjacent to the outlet 12 is provided with a sealing surface S that is fitted and positioned to seal against the seal 22 when the filter element 2 is finally installed. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that when an axial force is applied to the cover 11 during the positioning of the cover and closing of the filter housing, portions of the cavity 111, in this case mainly the indentation ribs 111d, exert force on the reinforcing or covering structure 21, pushing the radial seal into position so that the radial seal seals against the sealing surface S without the risk of damaging the radial sealing extension 221 of the seal 22.

[0144] Furthermore, optionally in combination with the presence of a press-fit surface 27 or chamfered press-fit surface 27 on the end cap 24 of each filter element 2, the cylindrical outer liner structure 110 in the outer region of the cavity 111 is preferably adapted and predetermined to press the press-fit surface 27 or chamfered press-fit surface 27 on the end cap 24 of each filter element 2 to press the seal 22 into a predetermined position in the outer region of the cavity 11 and / or provide a seal backing of the seal in the outer region of the cavity 11 when the housing cover 11 is closed.

[0145] In combination with the presence of the chamfered indentation surface 27, the inner surface of the outer liner structure 110 preferably includes one or more complementary chamfered surfaces (e.g., a single complementary circumferentially chamfered surface interrupted within the region of the composite structure) adapted and positioned to apply pressure to the chamfered indentation surface 27.

[0146] The indentation surface 27 may also include a circumferential groove that opens toward the second end E2 of the filter media pack 20 to receive, for example, the distal end of the outer liner structure 110 in the area outside the composite structure or radial seal extension 221.

[0147] The installation process for the filter assembly 1 and associated filter element 2 described above involves first installing the filter element 2 into the housing cover 11, including the outer filter liner 110, as described above, before closing the cover and thereby installing the filter element, which has the advantage that no force is applied to the filter element 2 itself (e.g., a flexible filter element) that would be sufficient to bring the radial seal 22 to its final sealing position, and that no force is applied that could deform or damage the filter medium pack 20, particularly axial forces. Instead, any axial forces applied to the filter cover 11 are transmitted directly to a composite structure having a rigid plastic reinforcement structure or shell 21 via the outer liner structure 110 (including both inner and outer liners, typically made of rigid materials such as, for example, hard plastic material). The plastic reinforcement structure 21 prevents the polyurethane radial seal extension 221 from being cut or damaged during the process. This is shown in Figures 11a and 11b.

[0148] Figure 7 illustrates the advantage that an incorrect filter element, such as filter element 2 having an end cap that cannot be deformed at least partially in the radial direction, cannot be initially installed in the outer filter liner 110 of the housing cover 11, and is therefore initially installed in the housing 10. The cavity 111, particularly the undercut, is blocked by the radial seal extension 221 of the seal 22 before it can reach its intended position, so the housing cover 11 obviously cannot close the housing.

[0149] Figures 10a and 10b show optional features having one or more handles 113 on the housing cover 11 of a first preferred assembly embodiment of the present disclosure. Preferably, a pair of handles 113 are provided on both radial sides of the housing cover to allow for easy removal of the cover and the installed filter element.

[0150] Figures 19a and 19b show the filter element 2 and further optional alignment mechanisms of the first preferred filter assembly embodiment. The filter element 2 includes a groove 23 (e.g., V-shaped or U-shaped) extending axially on the radial outer surface of the filter medium pack 20, preferably extending from the first end E1 to the second end E2 at an angular position, for example, centrally located, aligned with, for example, one of the composite structures 221, 21. The second end cap 25 also includes a corresponding notch (e.g., V-shaped or U-shaped) aligned with the groove 23. In other words, the groove 23 extends through the second end cap 25. At the first end E1 of the filter medium pack 20, the groove 23 can terminate and abut against one of the composite structures 221, 21. The outer liner structure 110 includes a corresponding axially extending rib or guide structure 110b located on the inner surface of the outer liner 110. The groove 23 is received by the rib 110b when the filter element 2 is received by the outer liner structure 110, simplifying the alignment and insertion of the filter element 2 within the housing cover 11.

[0151] Embodiments shown in Figures 17a to 17b Figures 17a and 17b are perspective views of an assembly according to a more preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. Filter element 2 differs from filter element 2 described with respect to the first preferred embodiment in that the radial seal extension 221 and the corresponding reinforcement or shell structure 21 are oriented radially inward. The shell structure 21 is embedded in a first end cap 24 made of elastically deformable polyurethane. The second cap 25 and the filter medium pack 20 are also elastically deformable. The housing cover differs from that described with respect to the first preferred embodiment in that the outer liner 110 has an undercut surface 110a oriented radially inward from the inner surface of the outer liner structure 110. The seal 22 is fitted and positioned to seal radially inward on a complementary sealing surface S in the housing adjacent to the outlet opening 13. The radial outer surface 215 of the radial seal extension 221 is backed by the respective shell structure 21. The housing can further be fitted and positioned such that when the cover 11 is properly fitted to the main housing 10, the distal end of the outer liner structure 110 provides backing for the complementary portion of the seal 22. The undercut portion 110a is designed and positioned to back the composite structures 221, 21. When the filter element 2 is installed in the housings 10, 11, the filter element 2 is first installed in the outer liner structure 110 of the housing cover 11. The second end cap 25 of the filter element 2 is first inserted by first deforming the filter element 2 until the first end cap 24 reaches the undercut 110a. The first end cap 24 is then deformed by pushing each of the composite structures inward. The composite structures are moved under the undercut 110a and released again, allowing the first end cap 24 to snap back outward to its original configuration. This process can be applied, for example, to one composite structure at a time or to both composite structures simultaneously, resulting in the filter element 2 being fixed to the outer liner structure 110, and therefore to the housing cover 11.

[0152] Embodiments shown in Figures 18a to 18b Figures 18a and 18b show an assembly according to a more preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, similar to the embodiment described in relation to Figures 17a and 17b, but allowing the filter medium pack 20 and the second end cap 25 to be immovable. This is because the filter element 2 includes two axially extending grooves 23 (e.g., V-shaped or U-shaped) on the radially outer surface of the filter medium pack 20, preferably from the first end E1 to the second end E2, extending to, for example, a centrally located angular position, aligned with the two composite structures 221, 21. The second end cap 25 also includes a corresponding notch (e.g., V-shaped or U-shaped) aligned with the grooves 23. In other words, the grooves 23 extend through the second end cap 25. At the first end E1 of the filter medium pack 20, the grooves 23 can terminate and abut one of the composite structures 221, 21. The outer liner structure 110 includes two corresponding axially extending ribs or guide structures 110b positioned on the inner surface of the outer liner 110 at diametrically opposed positions. The groove 23 receives the guide structures 110b when the filter element 2 is received by the outer liner structure 110, simplifying the alignment of the filter element 2 within the housing cover 11. Since the axial projections of the undercut 110a and the groove 23 do not overlap, the undercut 110a does not prevent the insertion of the filter element 2 into the outer liner 110 until the moment the composite structure reaches the undercut 110a. The first end cap 24 then deforms by pushing each of the composite structures inward. The composite structures are moved below the undercut 110a and released again, allowing the end caps to snap back outward to their original configuration. This process can be applied, for example, to one composite structure at a time or to both composite structures simultaneously, resulting in the filter element 2 being secured to the outer liner structure 110 and therefore to the housing cover 11.

[0153] Embodiments shown in Figures 13a to 14c Figures 13a-13c and 14a-14c show assemblies according to more preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. The filter element 2 (see Figure 4b) comprises a filter medium pack 20 including a longitudinal axis and a first open end cap 24 liquid-tightly positioned at a first axial end E1 of the medium pack 20, and includes a central opening 26. A second end cap 25 is liquid-tightly provided at a second axial end E2 of the filter medium pack 20, which is also an open end cap 25. The first end cap 24 is at least partially flexible and is elastically and nondestructively deformable. The first end cap 24 further comprises a circumferential seal 22 surrounding the central opening 26, which is substantially circular except for two radial seal extensions 221 extending radially inward from the rest of the seal 22. This further comprises two separate reinforcing structures 21 of rigid plastic partially embedded in the material of the first end cap 24. Each reinforcing structure 21 covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial seal extension 221, including the radial inner surface 216 of the radial extension 221. The first end cap further comprises two projections 241 that can be used as handles for pulling the composite structure out of its respective undercut.

[0154] The circumferential seal 22 is fitted and positioned to seal radially outward. The reinforcing structure 21 is positioned and fitted to back the radial extension 221 of the circumferential seal 22. The thickness of the seal 22 measured perpendicular to the axial direction is constant. Thus, at the locations of the two reinforcing structures 21, the seal 22 forms a step on its radially inward side. The axial projection of the seal 22 and the radial outer wall of the filter media pack 20 are concentric except for the portions corresponding to the two radial seal extensions 221.

[0155] The composite structure, which includes the radial seal extension 221 and the reinforcing structure 21, is positioned on the side surface of the circumferential seal 22 that faces the diametrically opposed side.

[0156] Each reinforcing structure 21 includes one or more hollow cavities 212 in its second axial end face 214, the second axial end face 214 projecting in the same direction as the first end E1 of the filter medium pack. These hollow cavities 212 play a role in the manufacturing process as described above.

[0157] The filter media pack 20 contains pleated filter media arranged in a tubular or cylindrical shape and is flexible. It does not include a rigid inner liner 14 or a rigid outer liner 110. The end cap 24 is a potted polyurethane end cap molded onto the pleated filter media 20 and has an integrated seal 22.

[0158] The associated filter assembly 1 comprises filter housings 10, 11 having an inlet opening 13 and an outlet opening 12, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element 2. The filter housing comprises a main filter housing 10 and a housing cover 11, the main filter housing 10 having an internal liner 14 for the filter element 2 having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the main housing 10 into the internal cavity. The internal liner structure 14 is received by the internal cavity of the filter element 2 during installation and has a distal end facing a proximal end in the main housing 10. The internal liner 14 has two cavities or undercuts 141 at its distal end that are fitted and positioned to receive the respective composite structures 21, 221 embodied by two radial seal extensions 221 and associated reinforcing structures 21.

[0159] While the filter element 2 is being installed in the housing 10, the first end cap 24 is deformed by pushing each of the composite structures outward, for example by pulling each projection 241 radially outward. The composite structures are moved under the undercuts (for example, of each cavity 111) and released again, allowing the end cap 24 to snap back inward to its original configuration. The filter element 2 is then secured to the inner liner 14 (Figure 14a). The housing cover 11 includes an outer liner structure 110 for the filter element 2, which has a longitudinal axis and protrudes from the housing cover 11 into the internal cavity. The inner surface of the housing cover 11 is provided with a sealing surface S that is radially oriented within the outer liner structure 110 and complementary to the circumferential seal 22. When the cover 11 is closed and aligned with the filter element 2 and the inner liner 14, the seal 22 seals radially outward on its sealing surface S. The distal end of the inner liner structure 14 provides a sealing backing function for the seal 22. The second end cap 25 can be sealed near the outlet 12 by a radial or axial seal.

[0160] Embodiments shown in Figures 12a to 12d Figures 12a to 12d show an assembly according to a more preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. The filter element 2 is similar to any of the filter elements described in relation to the first preferred embodiment described in relation to Figures 1a and 1b, Figures 2 to 4, Figures 5a to 5c, Figures 6a and 6b, Figure 7, and Figures 8a and 8b. However, the filter element 2 further comprises a rigid plastic reinforcement structure 21 having radially outward-extending ribs 211. The first end cap 24 and the filter medium pack 20 are elastically deformable.

[0161] The associated filter assembly comprises filter housings 10, 11 having an inlet opening 13 and an outlet opening 12, and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving the filter element. The filter housings 10, 11 comprise a main filter housing 10 and a housing cover 11, the main filter housing 10 having a filter service opening defined by the circumferential end of the main filter housing 10. The housing cover comprises an inner liner 14 for the filter element 2 projecting centrally from the housing cover 11 into the internal volume. The circumferential end of the main housing 10 includes two receiving cavities 115 at diametrically opposed positions for receiving the respective composite structures 221, 21 embodied by the respective radial seal extensions 221 and associated reinforcing structures 21 of the filter element 2. The cavities 115 are similar to the cavities 111 in the first preferred embodiment, but here they are located at the service opening (rather than at the distal end of the outer liner 110). While the filter element 2 is installed in the housing 10, the first end cap 24 deforms by pushing each of the composite structures inward. The composite structures are then moved under the undercuts of each cavity 111 and released again, allowing the end cap 24 to snap back outward to its original configuration. The cavities 115 receive the radially outward-extending ribs 211 and are provided with cavity slots 115a corresponding to their radial outer walls to allow the radially outward-extending ribs 211 to pass through. The radially outward-extending ribs 211 are eventually exposed to the outside of the main housing 10. The housing cover 11 is provided with a latch 116 for locking the cover 11 to the main housing 10, the latch latches onto each exposed portion of the radially outward-extending ribs 211.

[0162] Embodiments shown in Figures 15a to 15d Figures 15a to 15d show an assembly according to a more preferred embodiment of the present disclosure. The filter element 2 is similar to any of the filter elements 2 described in relation to the first preferred embodiment described in relation to Figures 1a and 1b, Figures 2 to 4, Figures 5a to 5c, Figures 6a and 6b, Figure 7, and Figures 8a and 8b, and has an open second end cap. The associated filter assembly 1 comprises a filter housing 10, 11 having an inlet opening 13 and an outlet opening 12, and an internal cavity that sealably receives the disclosed filter element 2. The filter housing comprises a main filter housing 10 and a housing cover 11. The housing cover 11 has an internal liner structure 110 for the filter element 2 having a longitudinal axis and projecting from the housing cover 11 into the internal cavity. A separate, removable outer liner structure 110 is provided, adapted to receive the filter element 2. A separate outer liner structure 110 comprises an open first end including a ring structure adapted to receive the first end 24 of the filter element 2, and a second end facing it axially. The first end of the outer liner structure 110 comprises two cavities 111' adapted and positioned to receive the respective composite structures 21, 221 embodied by the two radial seal extensions 221 and associated reinforcing structures 21 of the filter element 2. The cavities 111' open radially inward toward the central opening of the first end of the separate outer liner structure and are provided on the radially facing side surfaces of the first end of the outer liner structure 110. Each cavity 111' (see 15b and 15c in Figure 1) comprises an undercut 110a' and is at least partially defined by the undercut 110a'.

[0163] When a new filter element is installed during maintenance, the filter element 2 is first installed in the outer liner structure 110. Thus, the first end cap 24 of the filter element 2 deforms by pushing each of the composite structures inward. The composite structures are brought into their respective cavities 111' under their respective undercuts 110a' and released again, allowing the end caps to snap back outward to their original configuration. This process can be applied, for example, to one composite structure at a time or both composite structures simultaneously, resulting in the filter element 2 being fixed to the outer liner structure 110. This traps each composite structure axially under the undercut wall 110a', and the filter element 2 is locked within the separate outer liner structure 110. The combination of the outer liner 110 and the filter element 2 is then inserted into the filter housing 10, the cover 11 is installed to close the housing, and the inner liner 14 is introduced into the filter element 2 at the same time. This causes the filter element 2 to form a radial seal with the complementary sealing surface S located inside the housing cover 11. As a result, the ring structure at the first open end of the outer liner structure 110 provides a sealing backing function for the radial seal 22 indirectly via the embedded reinforcing structure 21 in the region of the radial seal extension 221, and directly for the complementary / remaining portion of the seal 22. The second end cap 25 can be sealed near the exit 12 by a radial or axial seal.

[0164] Embodiments shown in Figures 16a to 16d Figures 16a–16d show filter elements and filter assemblies according to more preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. The filter element 2 comprises a filter medium pack 20 including a longitudinal axis and a first open end cap 24 liquid-tightly positioned at a first axial end E1 of the medium pack 20, and includes a central opening 26. A second end cap 25 liquid-tightly positioned at a second axial end E2 of the filter medium pack 20 is provided, which is a closed end cap 25. The first end cap 24 is at least partially flexible and is elastically and nondestructively deformable. The first end cap 24 further comprises a circular circumferential seal 22 surrounding the central opening 26. The circumferential seal 22 includes two radial seal extensions 221 extending radially inward from the rest of the seal 22. These further comprise two separate reinforcing structures 21 partially embedded in the material of the first end cap 24. Each reinforcing or covering structure 21 covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial extension 221 of the seal 22, including the radial inner surface 216 of the radial extension 221.

[0165] The circumferential seal 22 is fitted and positioned to seal radially outward. The rigid plastic reinforcement structure 21 is positioned and fitted to back the radial extension 221 of the circumferential seal 22. The thickness of the seal 22 measured perpendicular to the axial direction is constant. Thus, at the locations of the two reinforcement structures 21, the seal 22 forms a radially inward step. The axial projection of the seal 22 and the radial outer wall of the filter media pack 20 are concentric except for the portions corresponding to the two radial seal extensions 221.

[0166] The composite structure, which includes the radial seal extension 221 and the reinforcing structure 21, is positioned on the side surface of the circumferential seal 22 that faces the diametrically opposed side.

[0167] Each reinforcing structure 21 includes one or more hollow cavities 212 in its second axial end face 214, the second axial end face 214 projecting in the same direction as the first end E1 of the filter medium pack. These hollow cavities 212 play a role in the manufacturing process as described above.

[0168] The filter media pack 20 contains a tubular, cylindrical pleated filter media and is flexible. It does not include a rigid inner liner 14 or a rigid outer liner 110. The first end cap 24 is a potted polyurethane end cap molded onto the pleated filter media 20 and has an integrated seal 22.

[0169] The associated filter assembly 1 includes a separate, removable inner liner structure 14 for the filter element 2. The inner liner 14 extends axially between a first axial end and a second axial end. The filter element 2 has an internal volume for receiving the inner liner 14. The separate inner liner 14 has one or more cavities or undercuts 141' at the first axial end. While installing the filter element 2 into the filter housing 10, the first end cap 24 deforms by pushing each of the composite structures outward. The composite structures are displaced under their respective undercuts 141' (or undercuts of cavities) and released again, allowing the end cap 24 to snap back inward to its original configuration. The filter element 2 and the inner liner 14 can then be installed together into the main filter housing 10 by locking them together and positioning their first axial ends toward the exit portion of the housing 10. Adjacent to the outlet 12, the main housing 10 includes a circumferential sealing surface S that is complementary to the circumferential seal 22 and is fitted and positioned to provide a radially outer seal to the radial seal 22. The first axial end of a separate, removable inner liner 14 provides a sealing backing function for the radial seal 22 indirectly via an embedded reinforcing structure 21 in the area of ​​the radial seal extension 221, and directly for the complementary / remaining portion of the seal 22.

[0170] The aforementioned filter elements were all cylindrical in shape, that is, they had a media pack arranged in a tubular (pleated) manner corresponding to a cylinder. However, the shape of the filter media pack is not limited to a cylinder and can be arranged in other shapes. In particular, the filter media pack 20 can include, for example, an ellipse, an oblong, or a racetrack shape. Figure 21 shows an element similar to the elements in Figures 5a to 5c, but with a media arranged in an oblong configuration.

[0171] Embodiments shown in Figures 21-23 Other possible embodiments are shown in Figures 21 to 23. Figure 22a shows a filter element 2 comprising a grooved or z-shaped media pack 20, and having an elastically deformable first end cap 24 having two radial seal extensions 221 and corresponding embedded reinforcement structures 21. The end cap 24 comprises a polyurethane material and extends axially away from the inlet or outlet of the filter media pack 20. Figure 22b shows a similar filter element 2 comprising a composite grooved filter media pack including a centrally located first grooved media pack 20' having a first height and a first set of filtration properties, the first grooved media pack 20' being surrounded by a second grooved media pack 20 having a shorter height and a different second set of filtration properties.

[0172] Figure 23 shows a filter element 2 comprising a grooved or z-shaped media pack 20, and having an elastically deformable first end cap 24 with two radial seal extensions 221 and corresponding embedded reinforcing structures 21. The end cap 24 comprises a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) material and extends axially away from the periphery of the inlet or outlet surface of the filter media pack 20. The seal 22 is embodied as an inward-facing lip seal and is backed by the reinforcing structure 21 in the area of ​​the radial seal extension.

[0173] All of the aforementioned filter elements 2 disclose two matching radial seal extensions 221 and corresponding reinforcing structures 21 having, for example, the same height (axial range), width (angular range), and depth (radial range). In another figure, the axial projections of one or more radial seal extensions 221 are matching. Alternative configurations are possible. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the axial projections of two or more radial seal extensions differ in one or more of their width and depth. Also, in a particular embodiment, one of the radial seal extensions 221 and the corresponding reinforcing structure 21 may extend radially inward, and the other of the radial seal extensions 221 and the corresponding reinforcing structure 21 may extend radially outward. Furthermore, in a particular embodiment, one of the radial seal extensions 221 may extend radially inward and the other may extend radially outward, and both cover structures 21 may extend radially outward (as shown in Figure 20). Figure 20 also shows the definition of the step height H of the radial seal extension and the associated virtual contour C (dotted line) of the virtual non-radial extension seal 22.

[0174] Embodiments shown in Figures 24 to 30a Referring to Figures 24 to 30a, further examples of filter assembly 1 including filter cartridge 2 are presented. The filter assembly 1 shown in Figures 24 to 30a is substantially the same as the filter assembly 1 associated with Figure 1a, Figure 1(b), etc., and the preceding explanations provided for the first example presented herein are also applicable to this example. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used, and there is no need to repeat the explanation in this section. Instead, this section outlines the differences from the filter assembly 1 associated with Figure 1a, Figure 1b, etc. One notable difference is that the open end cap 24 of the filter element 2 is provided with only one reinforcing structure 21 and radial seal extension 221 instead of two. With this configuration, the open end cap 24 can be said to have one rotational symmetry. Similarly, the outer liner 110 is provided with only a single corresponding cavity 111 for receiving the reinforcing structure 21, as shown in the installed state in Figure 29. In the illustrated example, a portion of the reinforcing structure 21 is embedded within the material of the end cap 24. Figure 29 shows a similar top view in which the open end cap 24 and the medium 20 are compressed radially inward at the position of the reinforcing structure 21, so that the reinforcing structure 21 can be displaced beyond the upper wall 111b defining the cavity 111. Note that at the position shown in Figure 29a, the outer circumference of the open end cap 24 is constrained by the outer liner 110. To explain this state, the open end cap 24 is structured with sufficient flexibility and elasticity, so that the necessary radially inward force applied to the reinforcing structure 21 causes only a local inward deflection of the end cap 24 at the position of the radial seal extension, and does not require a corresponding outward expansion of the end cap at any other position. In one characterization, this deformation can be said to form the flat side surface of the end cap 24 and the filter element 2. When this force is removed, the end cap 24 has enough elasticity to return to its natural shape, as shown in Figure 29. In the disclosed configuration, the filter element 2 and the end cap 24 have a first shape corresponding to the natural, undeformed shape shown in Figure 29, and a second shape different from the first shape corresponding to the deformed shape shown in Figure 29a.

[0175] Elastic deformation of the disclosed air filter - Figures 31a to 33b Referring to Figures 31a to 33b, the aspects relating to the elastic deformation of the filter element 2 described above are schematically shown. In the following description, several different shapes of the filter element 2 and the open end cap 24 are described. These references refer to the “general” shape, meaning that the shape mentioned is the overall shape, despite the deformation due to the reinforcing structure 21 and the radial seal extension 221. Figure 31a shows a schematic top view of the filter element as shown overall in Figures 1a to 23, with two reinforcing structures 21 provided. Referring to Figure 31a, which shows the filter element in a relaxed or undeformed state, the filter element 2 has an overall dimension L3, which is the sum of the dimensions L1 of the two reinforcing structures 21 and the general dimension L2 of the end cap 24. In the relaxed or undeformed state shown in Figure 31a, the filter element 2 and the end cap 24 can be said to have a substantially circular shape. To pass through the inner edge of the wall 111b defining the cavity 111, the reinforcing structure 21 must be moved toward each other such that the overall dimension of the end cap 24 has dimension L2, thereby reducing the corresponding general dimension of the end cap to dimension L4. Such deformation is shown in Figure 31b, and it can be said that the filter element 2 and the end cap 24 have an elliptical or oblong shape, or a substantially circular shape with two flat sides. In some examples, the percentage difference between L2 and L3 is about 10%. In some examples, this difference can be up to 30%, depending on the configuration of the end cap 24. The end cap 24 is constrained by the housing 110, causing an inward deflection of the end cap 24 at the position of the reinforcing structure 21, so that the dimensions of the other parts of the end cap 24 do not exceed L2. In other words, in the deformation shown in Figure 31b, no part of the end cap 24 has dimensions exceeding the corresponding inner dimension defined by the housing 110. In such a configuration, as described above, the end cap 24 can be characterized as locally flexible or deformable, meaning that the end cap is flexible or deformable enough to bend inward at one position without requiring outward bending of the end cap at any other position.This is advantageous when the end cap is radially constrained by the housing or outer liner, preventing it from expanding in a direction perpendicular to the radially applied force.

[0176] Referring to Figures 32a and 32b, similar mechanics are shown, but the filter element 2 is provided with only one reinforcing structure 21. Such configurations are shown in Figures 24 to 30(a). In the example of Figures 32a and 32b, there is only one reinforcing structure 21, and only about half of the overall inward deflection shown in Figure 31b is required for the reinforcing structure 21 to pass through the wall 111b. Therefore, the percentage difference between L2 and L3 in such an example is about 5%. In some examples, this difference can be up to 30%, depending on the configuration of the end cap 24. The shape of the filter element 2 and end cap 24 in Figure 32b can be said to be either nearly circular with a single flat side or elliptical.

[0177] Referring to Figures 33a and 33b, another example is shown in which only one reinforcing structure 21 is provided. In this example, an elliptical or racetrack-shaped filter element 2 is provided, having a general long side dimension L5 and a general short side dimension L4, and an overall short side dimension L3 which is the sum of dimensions L2 and L1. Figures 45a to 46, described below, represent such an example. Similar to the previous example, deformation of the end cap 24 occurs such that the overall dimension L3 decreases to dimension L2. The shape of the filter element 2 and end cap 24 in Figure 33b can be said to be approximately elliptical or racetrack-shaped with inwardly displaced sides. In Figures 31a and 31b, it is also possible to provide a racetrack or elliptical-shaped filter element with reinforcing structures 21 on each long side instead of just one side.

[0178] Other examples Figures 34a to 46 present examples of further air purifier assemblies including air filter elements 1100 which can be provided without internal and / or external support liners. In some of the illustrated examples, the air filter elements include one or more reinforcing structures 21 and radial seal extensions 221, while other examples are shown without such features. However, it should be understood that any of the disclosed air filter elements 1100 may include one or more reinforcing structures 21 and radial seal extensions 221 as described above. Furthermore, any of the features of the filter element 2 described above may be provided in the air filter element 1100 described later, and vice versa. It should also be noted that the air filter elements 1100 described later have an oval or racetrack shape, but may instead have a cross-sectional shape. Similarly, the circular air filter element 2 described above may have an oval or racetrack shape. Similarly, the air purifier housing 1200, described later in relation to Figures 34a to 46, may be alternatively configured to accept a circular air filter element, and the filter housing 10 described above may be alternatively configured to accept an oval or racetrack-shaped air filter element.

[0179] Air purifier assembly 1010 - Figures 34a to 34f Figures 34a to 34f schematically illustrate further examples of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier 1010 is presented which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200.

[0180] In one embodiment, the housing assembly 1200 includes a main housing 1202 defining an internal volume 1202a extending along a longitudinal axis X1, and a service opening 1202b facing substantially orthogonally along an axis Z perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X1. Thus, the media pack 1100 can be inserted through the service opening 1202b and installed within the internal volume 1202a of the main housing 1202. Such a configuration can be called a side-load configuration because the insertion and removal directions of the media pack 1100 are substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the housing and the direction of the airflow through at least a portion of the housing assembly 1200. In one embodiment, the main housing 1202 is molded so that the service opening 1202b is enlarged at one end to facilitate the easy installation and removal of the media pack 1100 from the main housing 1202. The housing assembly 1200 is further shown to include a cover assembly 1204 that can be installed on the main housing 1202 to cover the service opening and enclose the internal volume 1202a. In one embodiment, the main housing 1202 further defines an air inlet 1202c and an air outlet 1202d.

[0181] The housing assembly 1200 is further shown to include an outer support structure 1206 having an internal region 1206a for receiving a media pack 1100 via an open end 1206b. In one embodiment, the outer support structure 1206 defines a sufficient number of openings or perforations to allow air to flow through the media 1102 without excessive obstruction. As will be described later, the media pack 1100 is provided without external support. Thus, the outer support structure 1206 provides external support for the media pack 1100. Together with the cover assembly 1204, the outer support structure 1206 securely holds the media pack 1100 within the main housing 1202. In one embodiment, the outer support structure 1206 is pivotably connected to the main housing 1202 and is movable between a service position (shown in Figure 34a) and an installation position about a pivot axis Y perpendicular to the overall longitudinal axis X1 of the air purifier 1010. In the illustrated example, the outer support structure 1206 is connected to the main housing 1202 via a snap-fit ​​connection having a predetermined indexed rotation position for facilitating maintenance. The outer support structure 1206 may also be biased toward the service position, for example by a spring element, so that the outer support structure 1206 automatically rotates toward the service position when the cover assembly 1204 is removed. In the service position, a portion of the outer support structure 1206 extends out of the internal volume 1202a through the service opening 1202b. In this position, the longitudinal axis X2 of the outer support structure 1206 is positioned at an oblique angle with respect to the overall longitudinal axis X1 of the main housing 1202, which is also at an oblique angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the outer support structure 1206 when it is in the installation position. In this position, the media pack can be installed in or removed from the outer support structure 1206. In the installed position, the longitudinal axis X2 of the outer support structure 1206 is substantially parallel to the overall longitudinal axis X1 of the main housing 1202. In this position, the media pack 1100 cannot be removed from the outer support structure 1206. The outer support structure 1206 is shown to include an undercut portion 1206c that extends across the open end 1206b and functions to hold the media pack within the internal region 1206a.

[0182] The cover assembly 1204 is shown to include a cover portion 1208 and an inner support structure 1210 extending from the cover portion 1208. The inner support structure supports the inside of the filter medium 1102 to prevent the medium 1102 from collapsing due to the negative pressure difference throughout the medium. When the medium pack is received into the outer support structure 1206, the inner support structure 1210 can be inserted into the central opening 1102c of the medium pack 1100. In one embodiment, the inner support structure 1210 defines a sufficient number of openings or perforations to allow air to flow through the medium 1102 without excessive obstruction. As will be described later, the medium pack 1100 is provided without internal support. Therefore, the inner support structure provides internal support for the medium pack 1100. In the disclosed example, the medium pack 1100 is provided with a conical or tapered shape such that the medium pack has a narrower or smaller dimension adjacent to the end cap 1104 compared to the corresponding dimension adjacent to the end cap 1106. This configuration allows the media pack 1100 to be inserted deeper into the outer support structure 1206 before resistance occurs between components during installation. In the illustrated example, the outer support structure 1206 has straight sides, but can be tapered to correspond to the taper of the media pack 1100. In the illustrated example, the inner support structure 1210 also has a tapered structure complementary to the taper of the media pack 1100. Once the cover assembly 1204 is attached to the media pack 1100 and thus to the outer support structure 1206, the assembled combination of the outer support structure 1206, the media pack 1100, the inner support structure 1210, and the cover portion 1208 can rotate together from the service position to the installation position about the pivot axis Y of the outer support structure 1206. The cover assembly 1204 is further shown to include a handle 1212 and a closing mechanism 1214 for securing the cover assembly 1204 to the main housing 1202 once the assembly is moved to the installation position. The closing mechanism 1214 may include a snap-fit ​​mechanism, a latch mechanism, and / or fasteners. In the example shown in Figure 33a, the cover portion 1208, the inner support structure 1210, the handle 1212, and the closing mechanism 1214 are integrally formed as a single component.However, other configurations are also possible. For example, as shown in Figure 33b, the inner support structure 1210, the handle 1212, and the closing mechanism 1214 may be integrally formed as a second component and connectable to the cover portion 1208, while the cover portion 1208 may be a separately formed component. In such a configuration, since the closing mechanism 1214 is associated with the inner support structure 1210, the operator will not inadvertently close the cover portion 1208 even if a separate inner support structure 1210 is not installed.

[0183] In one embodiment, the media pack 1100 includes a filter medium 1102 extending between a first end cap 1104 and a second end cap 1106. In the particular illustrated example, the filter medium 1102 is a pleated medium arranged tubularly to define a central opening 1102c around an axis X. Other types and configurations of media are possible, such as grooved media, depth media, non-pleated media, coiled media, and / or laminated media. The first open end cap 1104 is liquid-tightly connected to the first axial end 1102a of the filter media pack 1100. The second open end cap 1106 is liquid-tightly connected to the second axial end 1102b of the filter media pack 1100. The first and second end caps 1104, 1106 may be formed and attached to the filter media pack 1100 by, for example, a polyurethane potting process. In this case, the first circumferential sealing member 1104a of the first end cap 1104 and the second circumferential sealing member 1106a of the second end cap 1106 can be formed in the same process. The first circumferential seal 1104a is part of the first end cap 1104 and is configured to form a seal with the main housing 1202 of the housing assembly 1200, while the second circumferential seal 1106a is part of the second end cap 1106 and is configured to form a seal with part of the cover assembly 1204 of the housing assembly 1200. With such a configuration, the sealing members 1104a, 1106a ensure that all air entering the internal volume 1202a through the air inlet 1202c must first pass through the filter medium 1102 before exiting through the air outlet 1202d.

[0184] In one embodiment, the first and second sealing members 1104a, 1106a can be configured to have one or more sealing surfaces for forming a seal with the main housing 1202 and the cover assembly 1204, respectively, and can be configured similarly or differently. For example, one or both of the sealing members 1104a, 1106a can be configured to have a radially outward-facing surface for forming a seal with a radially inward-facing surface of the main housing 1202 / cover assembly 1204, a radially inward-facing surface for forming a seal with a radially outward-facing surface of the main housing 1202 / cover assembly 1204, and / or an axially-facing surface for forming a seal with an axially-facing surface of the main housing 1202 / cover assembly 1204. Furthermore, the sealing configurations shown and described in relation to Figures 35c, 35d, and 44a-44c are fully applicable to this example and all other examples in which the inner support structure 1210 is provided. In one embodiment, the end caps 1104, 1106, including both circumferential sealing members 1104a, 1106a, are substantially oval or racetrack shaped. The filter medium 1102 is also shown to have an oval or racetrack shape with a hollow interior. Other shapes of the end caps 1104, 1106, sealing members 1104a, 1106a, and filter medium 1102 are possible, such as cylindrical, elliptical, and conical.

[0185] As described above, the media pack 1100 is provided without an internal support structure, and furthermore, without an external support structure. Providing a media pack 1100 without internal and external support structures may be advantageous in providing a more environmentally friendly media pack that reduces the cost of the media pack 1100 and produces less waste after use. Furthermore, in combination with other features, providing a media pack 1100 without internal and external support structures makes the media pack 1100, including the filter medium 1102 and end caps 1104, 1106, non-destructively deformable, for example, elastically deformable. Thus, the media pack 1100 can be compressed or deformed to avoid the undercut portion 1206c of the external support structure 1206 during installation and removal of the media pack 1100 through the opening 1206b. During installation, once the media pack 1100 is fully installed within the internal region 1206a of the outer support structure 1206 and released, the media pack 1100 returns to its normal or relaxed state, with interference between the end cap 1106 and the undercut portion 1206c. In this position, the media pack 1100 is held securely within the outer support structure 1206 unless deformed by the operator. This installation process is shown in Figures 34e and 34f. After the media pack 1100 is installed in the outer support structure 1206, the inner support structure 1210 can be inserted into the media pack 100. In particular, the inner support structure 210, when inserted into the central opening 1102c, prevents the media pack 1100 from bending inward, thus ensuring that the media pack 1100 is securely positioned within the housing assembly 1200 when in the installation position, and ensuring that the media pack 1100 cannot be removed from the outer support structure 1206 until the cover assembly 1204 is removed from the media pack 1100. When the media pack 1100 is in the installation position and the cover assembly 1204 is closed, it is also observed that the cover portion 1208 and the support structures 1206, 1210 extend in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X1 and substantially perpendicular to the axis Z of the service opening.

[0186] As stated above, the concepts of this disclosure are not limited to a single configuration or a single combination of features. For example, there are many further possible variations beyond those shown in the examples in Figures 34a to 34f. To further illustrate some of these variations, Figures 35a to 46 present and describe below air purifier assemblies 1020, 1030, 1040, 1050, 1060, 1070, 1080, 1090, 1092, 1094, and 1096. Note that where similarities exist, the above description of the examples in Figures 34a to 34f is applicable to the following examples and does not need to be repeated below. Rather, the following description will mainly focus on the main differences between the various configurations and / or combinations of features that differ from other disclosed embodiments. Note that the features described below can also be incorporated into the examples shown in Figures 34a to 34f, and vice versa. For example, any of the air purifier assemblies 1020 to 1096 may be provided with an inclined cover and main housing, as disclosed for air purifier 1010, to provide an enlarged service opening for installing a media pack into the housing assembly. It should also be noted that, for any of the configurations presented herein, the inner liner structure 1210 may be omitted if a media having opposing flow surfaces without defining an internal opening (e.g., a grooved media) is used in the media pack 1100.

[0187] Air purifier assembly 1020 - Figures 35a~35d Figures 35a to 35d schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1020 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1020 is similar to the air purifier 1010 in that an internal support structure 1210 is provided on the cover assembly 1204, but the housing assembly 1200 does not have an external support structure. Therefore, in this example, the media pack 1100 is not externally supported by any part of the housing assembly 1200. In some examples, the media pack 1100 may have an integrated outer liner if such support is desired or required. In this example, the cover 1204, and therefore the internal support structure 1210, is completely removable from the main housing 1202 together with the media pack 1100. Such a configuration allows the operator to completely remove the media pack 1100 and cover assembly 1204 from the main housing 1200, and as a result, the media pack 1100 can be removed and replaced with a new media pack 1100 in a location separate from the vehicle (e.g., a workbench). After replacement, the assembly with the new media pack 1100 can be returned and installed on the main housing 1202. In some examples, the cover assembly 1204 can be optionally secured to the housing 1202 in combination with other fitting mechanisms between the main housing 1202 and the cover assembly 1204 via latches such as an over-center latch. As best shown in Figure 35c, the sealing member 1106a has a first surface 1106b facing radially inward, which forms a seal with the radially outward surface 1210a of the inner support structure 1210.

[0188] Referring to Figure 35d, it can be seen that the sealing member 1104a of the end cap 1104 has a first surface 1104b facing radially outward and forming a primary radial seal with the radially inward surface 1202e of the main housing 1202, and a second surface 1104c facing axially and forming a secondary axial seal with the axial surface 1202f of the main housing 1202. Figures 35c and 35d also show that the internal support structure 1210 extends axially beyond the end of the filter medium 1102 into the internal area defined by the end cap 1104 and the sealing member 1104a. In this configuration, the support structure 1210 supports the sealing member 1104a and restricts its radially inward deflection. When the media pack 1100 is placed inside the housing, this feature compresses the sealing member 1104a between the support structure 1210 and the surface 1202e of the housing body 1202. Therefore, the presence of the inner support liner 1210 within the end cap 1104 helps to ensure that the integrity of the seal between the radially outward-facing surface 1104c of the sealing member 1104a and the radially inward-facing surface 1202e of the main housing 1202 is maintained. Figures 44a to 44c show an additional sealing configuration in which the end cap 1104 defines an axially extending groove 1104x for receiving the end of the inner support structure 1210. By providing the groove 1104x, the inner support structure 1210 can support the adjacent sealing member 1104a more stably. The groove can have a U-shape, V-shape, or rectangular shape, with or without rounded corners. Figure 44A shows a seal configuration that is generally similar to those shown in Figures 35c and 35d, where the first seal surface 1104b is configured to face radially outward and form a seal with the radially inward-facing surface 1202e, and the seal surface 1104c is configured to face axially and form an axial seal with a part of the axially-facing surface 1202f of the main housing 1202. Figure 44b shows an alternative arrangement in which the radially inward-facing surface 1104d forms a seal with the radially outward-facing surface 1202g of the main housing 1202.Figure 44c shows a configuration that is essentially a combination of the sealing surfaces shown in Figures 44a and 44b, where the housing has sealing surfaces 1202e, 1202f, and 1202g that form a seal with surfaces 1104b, 1104c, and 1104d of sealing member 1104a. Note that the sealing configurations shown in Figures 35b, 35c, and 44a-44c may be provided in any air purifier assembly provided herein having an internal support structure 1210 for the media pack, and are not limited to any particular embodiment of this disclosure. Further disclosure of potential sealing configurations usable in embodiments of this disclosure can be found in PCT International Patent Application No. PCT / US2024 / 015821, filed on 14 February 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0189] Air purifier assembly 1030 - Figures 36a~36c Figures 36a to 36c schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1030 is presented which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1030 is similar to the air purifier assembly 1010 in that it includes both outer and inner liner structures 1206 and 1210, but differs in that the outer liner structure 1206 is provided as part of the cover assembly 1204. The air purifier assembly 1030 further differs in that the inner liner structure 1210 is provided as part of a completely separate end structure 1216 incorporating a closing mechanism 1214, and as a result, the cover portion 1208 cannot be fixed to the main housing 1202 without the end structure 1216. In one embodiment, the end structure 1216 comprises an end wall 1216a and a latch tab 1216b. The latch tab 1216b is configured to lock or secure the media pack 1100 and end structure 1216 to the cover assembly 1204 by fixing to a portion of the outer liner structure 1206. The end structure 1216 also has an axially facing surface 1216c on which the sealing member 1106a of the end cap 1106 can form a seal. At the opposite end of the media pack 1100, the end cap 1104 is provided with a radially inward facing sealing member 1104a that forms a seal to the radially outward facing surface of the main housing 1202. Similar to the air purifier 1020, the cover assembly 1204 and media pack 1100 of the air purifier 1030 can be removed from the main housing 1202 so that the media pack 1100 can be replaced in a more convenient location if necessary.

[0190] Air purifier assembly 1040 - Figures 37a~37c Figures 37a to 37c schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1040 is presented which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1040 is similar to the air purifier assembly 1010 in that it includes both outer and inner liner structures 1206, 1210, but the air purifier assembly 1040 differs in that the outer liner structure 1206 is defined in cooperation with a first part 1206d related to a cover portion 1208 and a second part 1206e related to a main housing 1202. In such a configuration, the first and second parts 1206d, 1206e function as half-shells that surround the media pack 1100 along a joint line A. The air purifier assembly 1040 further differs in that the inner liner structure 1210 is rotatably supported by the main housing 1202 and is movable between a service position and an installation position in substantially the same manner as described for the outer liner structure 1206 in Figures 34a to 34f. With this configuration, the media pack 1100 can be placed on the inner liner structure 1210, then rotated to the installation position, and then the cover portion 1208 can be rotated or positioned (if not already installed) to the closed position and locked to the main housing 1202. As shown in Figures 37b and 37c, the outer liner structure portions 1206d and 1206e can be configured in various different lengths and positions and do not need to be mirror images of each other or extend over the entire length of the media pack.

[0191] Air purifier assembly 1050 - Figures 38a~38f Figures 38a to 38f schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1050 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1050 is substantially similar to the air purifier assembly 1020 shown in Figures 35a to 35c, particularly in that the removable cover assembly 1204 is provided with an integrated cover portion 1208 and an internal support structure 1210. Therefore, the description of the air purifier assembly 1020 is also applicable to the air purifier assembly 1050. However, one notable difference between the air purifiers 1020 and 1050 is that the air purifier 1050 is provided with an inclined service opening 1202b and a correspondingly shaped cover portion 1208, similar to the air purifier 1010, thereby improving accessibility for the installation and removal of the media pack 1100.

[0192] Air purifier assembly 1060 - Figures 39a~39e Figures 39a to 39e schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1060 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. Air purifier assembly 1060 is similar to air purifier assembly 1030 in that the outer support structure 1206 is formed as part of the cover portion 1208, and the inner support structure 1210 is provided as a separate end structure 1216 that includes means for locking or latching the cover assembly 1204 to the main housing 1202. Air purifier assembly 1060 is similar to air purifier assemblies 1020 and 1050 in that the media pack 1100 has a radially outer sealing surface 1104c on a sealing member 1104a that is backed up or supported by the inner support structure 1210. The air purifier assembly 1060 is also similar to the air purifier assemblies 1010 and 1050 in that it is provided with an inclined service opening 1202b.

[0193] Air purifier assembly 1070 - Figures 40a~40c Figures 40a to 40c schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1070 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. Air purifier assembly 1070 is similar to air purifier assemblies 1030 and 1050 in that the outer support structure 1206 is formed as part of the cover portion 1208, and the inner support structure 1210 is provided as a separate end structure 1216 that includes means for locking or latching the cover assembly 1204 to the main housing 1202. Air purifier assembly 1070 is similar to air purifier assemblies 1020 and 1050 in that the media pack 1100 has a radially outer sealing surface 1104c on a sealing member 1104a that is backed up or supported by the inner support structure 1210. Air purifier assembly 1060 is also similar to air purifier assemblies 1010 and 1050 in that it is provided with an inclined service opening 1202b. Air purifier assembly 1070 differs from the other disclosed embodiments in that the end structure 1216 itself forms part of the cover portion 1204.

[0194] Air purifier assembly 1080 - Figures 41a~41e Figures 41a to 41e schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1080 is presented which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1080 has a main housing 1202 configured substantially as shown in Figure 34a. However, the outer support structure 1206 is not a component of the housing assembly 1200 but is provided as part of a cover assembly 1204 that is removable from the main housing 1202. This configuration allows the air purifier assembly 1080 to utilize a media pack 1100 having a non-pleated medium (e.g., a grooved medium) with opposing flow surfaces. Since the media pack 1100 does not have an open internal area or region, the air purifier assembly 1080 does not need to be provided with an inner support structure 1210. In the illustrated example, the end cap 1104 of the media pack 1100 consists of a sealing member 1104a positioned to form a seal with a portion of the main housing 1202. The sealing member 1104a can be configured to form an axial seal, a radially inward seal, and / or a radially outward seal with the main housing 1202. Referring to Figures 41d and 41e, the installation process is shown, in which (1) the media pack 1100 is first placed within the outer support structure 1206, (2) the cover assembly 1204 and the media pack 1100 are moved into the service opening of the main housing 1202 at an oblique angle to the longitudinal axis of the air purifier assembly 1080 until the connecting or latching components of the cover assembly 1204 (shown in this example as a pair of pockets 1205) engage with the corresponding connecting or latching components of the main housing 1102 (shown in this example as a pair of tabs 1207), and (3) the cover assembly 1204 and the media pack 1100 are rotated downward so that the media pack 1100 is positioned in the installation location with the sealing member 1104a engaged with the housing 1200. At this stage, the cover assembly 1204 can be latched or locked to the main housing 1202 automatically or manually.

[0195] Air purifier assembly 1090 - Figures 42a~42c Figures 42a to 42c schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1090 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1090 is similar to the air purifier assembly 1040 in that it is provided with an outer support structure 1206, which is partially defined by a main housing 1202 having portion 1206d and partially defined by a cover portion 1208 having portion 1206e. However, the air purifier assembly 1090 differs in that an inner support structure can certainly be provided, but is not shown as being included. In some examples, the media pack 1100 may have its own internal liner. The air purifier assembly 1090 also differs from other disclosed embodiments in that an end cap 1106 is provided as a closing end cap.

[0196] Air purifier assembly 1092 - Figures 43a~43b Figures 43a and 43b schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1092 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1092 is similar to air purifier assemblies 1040 and 1090 in that it is provided with an outer support structure 1206, which is partially defined by a main housing 1202 having a portion 1206d and partially defined by a cover portion 1208 having a portion 1206e. However, the air purifier assembly 1092 differs in that the portion 1206d completely encloses one end of the media pack 1100. Thus, the operator can load the media pack into the first portion 1206d and then close the cover portion 1208, and the second portion 1206d further secures the media pack 1100 in place. In this embodiment, an inner support structure can certainly be provided, but it is not shown as being included. In some examples, the media pack 1100 may have its own internal liner.

[0197] Air purifier assembly 1094 - Figures 45a~45d Figures 45a to 45d schematically illustrate an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1094 is presented which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1094 is similar to the air purifier assembly 1010 in that it is provided with both outer and inner liner structures 1206 and 1210, but the air purifier assembly 1094 differs in that the outer liner structure 1206 is associated with a cover portion 1208 and the inner liner structure 1210 is associated with the main housing 1202. The air purifier assembly 1094 further differs from the air purifier assembly 1010 in that the inner liner structure 1210 is rotatably supported by the main housing 1202 and is movable between a service position and an installation position in substantially the same manner as illustrated and described in relation to the air purifier assembly 1040 shown in Figure 37a. In this configuration, as shown in Figure 45b, the media pack 1100 can first be placed inside the outer liner structure 1206. Subsequently, as shown in Figure 45c, the cover and media pack assembly can be placed on top of the inner liner structure 1210. Then, as shown in Figure 45d, the cover can be rotated to the installed and closed positions. The air purifier assembly 1094 also differs in that the outer liner structure is provided with a cavity 111 and a wall 111b, and the media pack 1100 is provided with a reinforcing structure 21 and a corresponding radial seal extension 221. Therefore, as with other embodiments described above having such features, the end cap 24 and the media in the media pack 1100 must be deformed radially inward in a manner similar to that shown in Figure 33b, so that the reinforcing structure 21 can pass through the inner edge of the wall 111b. During installation, once this position is reached, the reinforcing structure 21 can extend freely into the cavity 111. Because the end cap 24 is elastically deformable, it naturally expands to this position when the inward force on the reinforcing structure 21 is removed. Note that in the illustrated example, the reinforcing structure 21 and the radial seal extension have a substantially trapezoidal shape. Other shapes are also possible.

[0198] Air purifier assembly 1096 - Figure 46 Figure 46 schematically illustrates an example of the present disclosure. As shown, an air purifier assembly 1096 is presented, which includes a media pack 1100 that can be installed within a housing assembly 1200. The air purifier assembly 1096 is similar to the air purifier assembly 1094 in that it includes both outer and inner liner structures 1206 and 1210, but the air purifier assembly 1096 differs in that the inner liner structure 1210 is not rotatable relative to the housing 1202, the housing 1202 has an open end, and the cover 1208 has an L-shape so as to surround the upper end and open end of the housing 1202. Thus, when the media pack 1110 is mounted on the cover 1208, the assembly aligns with the inner liner structure 1210 and is axially displaced on the inner liner structure 1210, as shown in Figure 46.

[0199] In this disclosure, the terms inlet and outlet are used for openings in a housing through which airflow passes "from inlet to outlet". Those skilled in the art will know that in certain assembly configurations, reverse flow can be applied, and the flow can be in the reverse direction, from outlet to inlet. This does not affect the nature of the inventive concept of this disclosure.

[0200] For example, one could argue the following:

[0201] 1. A filter element (2) comprising a filter medium pack (20) including a longitudinal axis, and a first open end cap (24) liquid-tightly disposed at a first axial end (E1) of the filter medium pack (20) and including a central opening (26), wherein the first end cap is at least partially flexible and nondestructively deformable radially between, for example, a first shape and a second shape substantially different therefrom, and the first end cap is a. A circumferential seal (22) surrounding an opening, comprising one or more radial seal extensions (221), b. One or more, preferably separate, reinforcing structures (21) which are at least partially embedded in the material of the first end cap (24) and preferably located in each area of ​​one or more radial seal extensions (221) A filter element (2) is provided.

[0202] 2. One or more reinforcing structures (21) are partially embedded in the material of the first end cap (24), and each reinforcing structure (21) covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial extension (221) of the seal (22), the filter element (2) as described in item 1, which includes at least the radially inner or outer surface (216, 215) of the radial extension (221), preferably the first axial end face (213) of the radial extension (221), the first axial end face projecting toward the second axial end (E2) of the filter medium pack (20).

[0203] 3. The filter element according to item 1 or 2, wherein the circumferential seal is fitted and positioned to seal radially, and the reinforcing structure (21) is fitted and positioned to back the radial extension (221) of the circumferential seal (22).

[0204] 4. The seal thickness measured perpendicular to the axial direction is substantially constant for the filter element as described in item 3.

[0205] 5. One or more or all radial seal extensions extend radially outward, as described in any one of items 1 to 4.

[0206] 6. One or more or all radial seal extensions extend radially inward, the filter element as described in any one of items 1 to 5.

[0207] 7. The seal generally follows an axial projection substantially concentric with the outer and / or inner contour of the filter medium pack, except for, for example, one or more radial seal extensions (221), as described in any one of items 1 to 6.

[0208] 8. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the second shape of the first open end cap is at least 5% smaller than the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the first shape.

[0209] 9. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising only two radial seal extensions (221) arranged on the diametrically opposed sides of the circumferential seal (22).

[0210] 10. The filter element according to item 1, wherein the distance between the radial seal extensions (221) of the second shape is at least 5% smaller or larger than the distance of the first shape.

[0211] 11. The end cap has a first width at the first position of the radial seal extension (221) when in the first shape, and a second width at the first position when in the second shape, and the second width is at least 5% different from the first width in a state where a radial force component of 25 N or less is applied. The filter element according to item 1.

[0212] 12. The first end cap (24) can be deformed radially by a radial force component smaller than 40 N. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 11.

[0213] 13. Each reinforcing structure (21) includes a hollow cavity (212) in its second axial end face (214), and the second axial end face (214) protrudes in the same direction as the first end (E1) of the filter medium pack. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 12.

[0214] 14. The first end cap (24) is elastically deformable. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 13.

[0215] 15. The filter medium pack (20) preferably includes a pleated filter medium arranged in a tubular shape, is flexible, and is preferably elastically deformable. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 14.

[0216] 16. The filter element according to item 15, wherein the filtration medium comprises one or more layers selected from the group consisting of a medium layer and a medium support layer.

[0217] 17. The filter element described in any one of items 1 to 14, wherein the filter medium pack (20) is grooved or z-shaped.

[0218] 18. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 17, wherein the first end cap (24) and preferably the circumferential seal (22) are also manufactured by a potting process, preferably a foamed polyurethane potting process, so that at least a portion of one or more separate reinforcing structures (21) is embedded in the first end cap (24).

[0219] 19. A filter element according to any one of items 1 to 18, wherein the circumferential seal (22) is integrally formed with the first end cap (24).

[0220] 20. The filter element according to any one of items 1 to 19, wherein the first circumferential seal (22) has two rotational symmetries with respect to the filter medium pack axis.

[0221] 21. A filter element according to any one of items 1 to 20, comprising a groove (23) extending axially on the radial outer surface of a media pack (20), preferably extending from a first end (E1) to a second end (E2).

[0222] 22. A package comprising a box, bag, or sleeve having a filter element as described in any one of items 1 to 21, wherein the filter element (2) is maintained in an elastically deformable configuration by the inner side wall of the box, bag, or sleeve.

[0223] 23. A filter assembly (1), the filter assembly comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) as described in any one of items 1 to 21, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the housing cover (11) being longitudinal A filter assembly (1) comprising an outer liner structure (110) for a filter element (2) having a directional axis and projecting from a housing cover (11) into an internal cavity, the outer liner structure (110) receiving the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end (112) to the housing cover (11), and the outer liner structure (110) being adapted and arranged to receive one or more composite structures (21, 221) each embodied by one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21).

[0224] 24. The filter assembly according to item 23, wherein the filter element comprises an axially extending groove (23) on the radially outer surface of the media pack (20), and the outer liner structure (110) comprises a corresponding axially extending rib or guide structure (110b) located on the inner surface of the outer liner (110).

[0225] 25. A filter assembly (1), the filter assembly comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (14), and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element (2) as described in any one of items 1 to 21, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the main filter housing (10) having a filter maintenance opening defined by the circumferential end of the main filter housing (10), the circumferential end having one or more receiving cavities (115) for receiving each composite structure (221, 21) embodied by each radial seal extension (221) and associated reinforcing structure (21) of the filter element 2, the filter assembly (1).

[0226] 26. The filter assembly as described in item 25, wherein the reinforcing structure (21) comprises radially outward-extending ribs (211), the cavity comprises a corresponding cavity slot (115a) for receiving the radially outward-extending ribs (211) and allowing the radially outward-extending ribs (211) to pass through and be exposed to the outside of the main housing (10), and the housing cover 11 comprises a latch, the latch latching onto each exposed portion of the radially outward-extending ribs (211).

[0227] 27. A filter assembly (1), the filter assembly comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) as described in any one of items 1 to 21, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, the filter housing comprising a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the main filter housing (10) having a longitudinal axis, and A filter assembly comprising an inner liner (14) for a filter element (2) protruding from a main housing (10) into an internal cavity, the inner liner structure (14) being received by the internal cavity of the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end in the main housing (10), the inner liner structure (14) having one or more cavities (141) at its distal end that are adapted and positioned to receive one or more composite structures (21, 221) each embodied by one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21).

[0228] 28. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter element (2) as described in any one of the preceding items 1 to 21, and a separate removable outer liner (110) for the filter element (2), wherein the outer liner (110) extends axially between a first axial end and a second axial end and has an internal volume for receiving the filter element (2), and the outer liner has one or more cavities (111') at the first axial end for receiving one or more composite structures (221, 21) embodied by the respective radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) of the filter element 2.

[0229] 29. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter element (2) as described in any one of the preceding items 1 to 21, and a separate removable inner liner (14) for the filter element (2), wherein the inner liner (14) extends axially between a first axial end and a second axial end, the filter element (2) has an internal volume for receiving the inner liner (14), and the inner liner has one or more cavities (141') at the first axial end for receiving one or more composite structures (221, 21) embodied by the respective radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) of the filter element (2), the filter assembly.

[0230] 30. A filter assembly according to any one of items 23 to 29, wherein one or more cavities (111, 141, 111', 141', 115) form undercut portions that prevent the composite structure (21, 221) from being inserted into the cavities (141') without deforming the filter element (2).

[0231] 31. A filter assembly (1), the filter assembly comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) as described in any one of items 1 to 21, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the housing cover (11) having a longitudinal axis and a filter protruding from the housing cover (11) into the internal cavity A filter assembly comprising an outer liner structure (110) for a filter element (2), the outer liner structure (110) receiving the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end (112) to a housing cover (11), the outer liner structure (110) having one or more undercut portions (110a) at its distal end, and a composite structure (21, 221) embodied by one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) being fitted and arranged to prevent the filter element (2) from passing from one side of the undercut portion (110a) to the other without deformation.

[0232] 32. The filter assembly according to item 31, wherein the filter element comprises an axially extending groove (23) on the radially outer surface of the media pack (20), and the outer liner structure (110) comprises a corresponding axially extending rib or guide structure (110b) located on the inner surface of the outer liner (110).

[0233] conclusion The principles described herein can be applied to various filter assemblies. An example of the principle being applied to an (air) gas filter assembly is described. An example is an air filter, for example, an air filter used to process engine intake airflow. This principle can be applied to various alternative gas filtration devices and, in some cases, to liquid filter assemblies as well. Again, the principles, techniques, and features described herein can be applied to various systems, and not all of the identified advantageous features must be incorporated into an assembly, system, or component in order to obtain any benefit from this disclosure.

Claims

1. A filter element (2) comprising a filter medium pack (20) including a longitudinal axis, and a first open end cap (24) liquid-tightly disposed at a first axial end (E1) of the filter medium pack (20) and including a central opening (26), wherein the first end cap is at least partially flexible and nondestructively deformable in the radial direction between a first shape and a second shape substantially different therefrom, and the first end cap is a) A circumferential seal (22) surrounding the opening, comprising one or more radial seal extensions (221), b) One or more reinforcing structures (21) that are at least partially embedded in the material of the first end cap (24) and preferably located within the area of ​​each of the one or more radial seal extensions (221) A filter element (2) comprising:

2. The filter element (2) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more reinforcing structures (21) are partially embedded in the material of the first end cap (24), and each reinforcing structure (21) covers at least a portion of the corresponding radial seal extension (221) of the seal (22), the portion including at least the radially inner or outer surface (216, 215) of the radial seal extension (221), preferably the first axial end face (213) of the radial seal extension (221), the first axial end face protruding toward the second axial end (E2) of the filter medium pack (20).

3. The filter element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the circumferential seal (22) is fitted and positioned to seal radially, and the reinforcing structure (21) is fitted and positioned to back the radial sealing extension (221) of the circumferential seal (22).

4. The filter element according to claim 3, wherein the thickness of the seal measured in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction is substantially constant.

5. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein one or more or all of the radial seal extensions extend radially outward.

6. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one or more or all of the radial seal extensions extend radially inward.

7. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein each of the reinforcing structures (21) has a hollow cavity (212) at its second axial end face (214), and the second axial end face (214) protrudes in the same direction as the first end (E1) of the filter medium pack.

8. A package comprising a box, bag, or sleeve having a filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the filter element (2) is maintained in an elastically deformable configuration by the inner side wall of the box, bag, or sleeve.

9. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), and the housing cover (11) is longitudinally oriented. A filter assembly (1) having an outer liner structure (110) for the filter element (2) that protrudes from the housing cover (11) into the internal cavity, the outer liner structure (110) receiving the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end (112) to the housing cover (11), and the outer liner structure (110) being adapted and arranged to receive one or more composite structures (21, 221) each embodied by the one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21).

10. A filter assembly (1), the filter assembly comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity for sealingly receiving a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, the filter housing comprising a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the main filter housing (10) comprising a filter maintenance opening defined by the circumferential end of the main filter housing (10), the circumferential end comprising one or more receiving cavities (115) for receiving the respective composite structures (221, 21) embodied by the respective radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) of the filter element (2), the filter assembly (1).

11. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), and the main filter housing (10) has a longitudinal axis and front A filter assembly (1) comprising an inner liner (14) for the filter element (2) projecting from a main housing (10) into the internal cavity, the inner liner structure (14) being received by the internal cavity of the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end in the main housing (10), the inner liner (14) having one or more cavities (141) at its distal end that are adapted and positioned to receive one or more composite structures (21, 221) embodied by the one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21).

12. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and a separate removable outer liner (110) for the filter element (2), wherein the outer liner (110) extends axially between a first axial end and a second axial end and has an internal volume for receiving the filter element (2), and the outer liner has one or more cavities (111') at the first axial end for receiving the one or more composite structures (221, 21) embodied by the respective radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) of the filter element (2), the filter assembly (1).

13. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and a separate removable inner liner (14) for the filter element (2), wherein the inner liner (14) extends axially between a first axial end and a second axial end, the filter element (2) has an internal volume for receiving the inner liner (14), and the inner liner has one or more cavities (141') at the first axial end for receiving the one or more composite structures (221, 21) embodied by the respective radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) of the filter element (2), the filter assembly (1).

14. The filter assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the one or more cavities (111, 141, 111', 141', 115) form undercut portions that prevent the composite structure (21, 221) from being inserted into the cavities (141') without deforming the filter element (2).

15. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the housing cover (11) having a longitudinal axis and the filter protruding from the housing cover (11) into the internal cavity A filter assembly (1) comprising an outer liner structure (110) for a filter element (2), the outer liner structure (110) receiving the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end (112) to the housing cover (11), the outer liner structure (110) having one or more undercuts (110a) at its distal end, and the composite structure (21, 221) embodied by one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) is fitted and arranged to prevent the filter element (2) from passing from one side of the undercut (110a) to the other without deformation.

16. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the seal is substantially concentric with the outer and / or inner contour of the filter medium pack, except for the one or more radial seal extensions (221).

17. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the second shape of the first open end cap is at least 5% smaller than the minimum radial cross-sectional dimension of the first shape.

18. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising only two radial seal extensions (221) arranged on the circumferential seal (22) opposite to the diametrically opposed side surface.

19. The filter element according to claim 1, wherein the distance between the radial seal extensions (221) of the second shape is at least 5% smaller or larger than the distance of the first shape.

20. The filter element according to claim 1, wherein the end cap, when in the first shape, has a first width at the first position of the radial seal extension (221), and when in the second shape, has a second width at the first position, the second width differs from the first width by at least 5% when a radial force component of 25 N or less is applied.

21. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first end cap (24) can be deformed radially by a radial force component smaller than 40 N.

22. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the first end cap (24) is elastically deformable.

23. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the filter medium pack (20) preferably includes a pleated filter medium arranged in a tubular shape, is flexible, and preferably elastically deformable.

24. The filter element according to claim 23, wherein the filtration medium comprises one or more layers selected from the group consisting of a medium layer and a medium support layer.

25. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 24, wherein the filtration medium pack (20) is grooved or z-shaped.

26. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the first end cap (24) and preferably the circumferential seal (22) are also manufactured by a potting process, preferably a foamed polyurethane potting process, so that at least a portion of the one or more separate reinforcing structures (21) is embedded in the first end cap (24).

27. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the circumferential seal (22) is integrally formed with the first end cap (24).

28. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the first circumferential seal (22) has two rotational symmetries with respect to the filter medium pack axis.

29. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the first circumferential seal (22) has only one rotational symmetry with respect to the filter medium pack axis.

30. The filter element according to any one of claims 1 to 29, preferably comprising a groove (23) extending axially on the radial outer surface of the media pack (20), which extends from the first end (E1) to the second end (E2).

31. A filter assembly (1) comprising a filter housing (10, 11) having an inlet opening (13) and an outlet opening (12), and an internal cavity that sealably receives a filter element (2) according to any one of claims 16 to 30, thereby dividing the internal cavity into an unfiltered air volume fluidly connected to the inlet and a filtered air volume fluidly connected to the outlet by the filter element, wherein the filter housing comprises a main filter housing (10) and a housing cover (11), the housing cover (11) having a longitudinal axis and the filter protruding from the housing cover (11) into the internal cavity A filter assembly (1) comprising an outer liner structure (110) for a filter element (2), the outer liner structure (110) receiving the filter element (2) and having a proximal end and an opposing distal end (112) to the housing cover (11), the outer liner structure (110) having one or more undercut portions (110a) at its distal end, and the composite structure (21, 221) embodied by one or more radial seal extensions (221) and associated reinforcing structures (21) is fitted and arranged to prevent the filter element (2) from passing from one side of the undercut portion (110a) to the other without deformation.

32. The filter assembly according to claim 31, wherein the filter element comprises an axially extending groove (23) on the radially outer surface of the media pack (20), and the outer liner structure (110) comprises a corresponding axially extending rib or guide structure (110b) disposed on the inner surface of the outer liner (110).

33. Filter element (2), a) A filter medium pack (20) including a longitudinal axis, b) A first open end cap (24) liquid-tightly positioned at the first axial end (E1) of the filtration medium pack (20), including a central opening (26), and comprising a circumferential seal (22) surrounding the opening, wherein the circumferential seal includes a radial seal extension (221), and Equipped with, c) The first end cap is nondestructively deformable in a first radial direction between an undeformed state and a deformed state, and the end cap has a first width along the first axis passing through the longitudinal axis and the radial seal extension when in the first shape, and a second width along the first axis when in the deformed state, wherein the second width differs from the first width by at least 5% when a radial force component of 25 N or less is applied. Filter element (2).

34. The filter element according to claim 33, wherein the second width differs from the first width by at least 10% when a radial force of 45 N or less is applied.

35. a) A reinforcing structure (21) fixed to the end cap (24) in proximity to the radial seal extension (221), further comprising a reinforcing structure that prevents deformation of the radial seal extension when the first end cap is in the deformed state, The filter element according to claim 33 or 34.

36. The filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 35, wherein the first end cap has a third width that is perpendicular to the first axis and extends along a second axis passing through the longitudinal axis, and the first end cap can be deformed from the non-deformed state to the deformed state without requiring a change in the third width.

37. The air filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 36, wherein the air filter element is provided without an inner liner and / or without an outer liner.

38. The filter element according to any one of claims 33 to 37, wherein the first end cap has one rotational symmetry.

39. Side-loaded air purifier assembly, a) A main housing extending along a longitudinal axis, the main housing having a defined internal volume, and a maintenance opening extending through the side surface of the main housing such that the maintenance opening is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, b) A media pack that can be inserted into the internal volume of the main housing through the maintenance opening, having an open internal area and including a tubular filter medium extending between a first end cap and a second end cap, c) A cover including a cover portion for covering the maintenance opening, and an inner support structure extending into the open internal area of ​​the filter medium. A side-loading air purifier assembly equipped with the following features.

40. The side-loaded air purifier assembly according to claim 39, wherein the inner support structure is separable from the cover portion.

41. The side-loaded air purifier assembly according to claim 39 or 40, wherein the inner support structure includes a locking means for fixing the cover portion to the main housing.

42. The side-loaded air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 41, wherein the first end cap defines a sealing member that defines a sealing surface facing radially outward, which forms a seal with a sealing surface facing radially inward of the main housing.

43. The side-loaded air purifier assembly according to claim 42, wherein the inner support structure extends radially inward of the sealing member such that the sealing member is radially positioned between the inner support structure and the main housing.

44. The side-loaded air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 39 to 43, wherein the second end cap forms a seal with the inner support structure.

45. The side-load air purifier according to claim 39, wherein the second end cap is an open end cap, and the inner support structure closes the open end cap.

46. A side-load air purifier according to any one of claims 39 to 42, further comprising an outer support structure that extends around the outer circumference of the filter medium and supports the outer circumference of the filter medium.

47. The side-loaded air purifier according to claim 46, wherein the outer support structure is pivotably fixed to the main housing.

48. Air purifier assembly, a) A main housing that defines the internal volume and service opening, b) A media pack that can be inserted into the internal volume of the main housing through the maintenance opening, the media pack comprising a filter medium and a first end cap, c) A cover including a cover portion for covering the maintenance opening and an outer support structure that at least partially surrounds the outer circumference of the filter medium An air purifier assembly equipped with the following features.

49. The air purifier assembly according to claim 48, wherein the cover portion is rotatable relative to the main housing.

50. The air purifier assembly according to claim 48 or 49, wherein the outer support structure is integrally formed with the cover portion.

51. The air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 48 to 50, wherein the outer support structure is separable from the cover portion.

52. The air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 48 to 51, wherein the first end cap defines a sealing member that defines a sealing surface facing radially outward, which forms a seal with a sealing surface facing radially inward of the main housing.

53. The air purifier assembly according to claim 52, wherein the maintenance opening extends through the side surface of the main housing such that the maintenance opening is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

54. The air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 48 to 53, further comprising an internal support structure extending within the opening area of ​​the filter medium.

55. The air purifier assembly according to claim 54, wherein the inner support structure is attachable to the outer support structure.

56. The air purifier assembly according to claim 54 or 55, wherein the internal support structure includes a locking means for securing the cover to the main housing.

57. The air purifier assembly according to claim 48, wherein the outer support structure includes a first portion related to the cover portion and a second portion related to the main housing, and the first and second portions cooperate to support the outer periphery of the filter medium.

58. The air purifier assembly according to 57, further comprising an internal support structure extending within the opening area of ​​the filter medium.

59. The air purifier assembly according to claim 58, wherein the internal support structure is rotatably fixed to the main housing.

60. The air purifier assembly according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the cover portion includes a first cover portion attached to or formed together with the outer support structure, and a second cover portion attached to or formed together with the inner support structure.

61. The air purifier assembly according to claim 48, wherein the outer support structure surrounds the entire circumference of the media pack.

62. The air purifier assembly according to any one of claims 48 to 61, wherein the outer support structure includes an undercut feature for securing the media pack within the outer support structure, and the media pack must be deformed in order to remove it from the outer support structure.

63. It is a filter cartridge, a) A tubular filter medium that defines an open interior and extends between a first end and a second end, tapering toward the first end and having an oval shape, b) A first open end cap including a first sealing member that is close to the first end of the filter medium and defines a sealing surface oriented in the first radial direction, c) A second open end cap including a second sealing member that is close to the second end of the filter medium and defines a second radially oriented sealing surface, Equipped with, d) The filter medium is not supported, and is provided without an inner liner and an outer liner so that the filter medium and at least one of the first and second open end caps are elastically deformable. Filter cartridge.

64. The filter cartridge according to claim 63, wherein the first end cap includes a groove for receiving the end of the inner liner.

65. The filter cartridge according to claim 63 or 64, wherein the first radially oriented sealing surface is a sealing surface oriented radially outward.

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