Blow-by gas filter assembly with support bearing

Abstract

The present invention relates to a blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) having an axis (XX), comprising: i) an assembly (2) comprising a filtering chamber (20), an inlet mouth (21) for the blow-by gas to be filtered, and an outlet mouth (22) for the filtered blow-by gas; ii) a filter group (3) including a central cavity (300) radially traversable by the blow-by gas; iii) an electric drive (4) operatively connected to the filter group (3) for commanding its rotation about the axis (XX) and for carrying out the filtering action, the electric drive (4) comprising an electric motor (40) comprising a stator (41) and a rotor (42); iv) a filter section (53) to which the filter group (3) is attached, and a rotor (42) and v) a support bearing (6) radially engaged with said support portion (56) and the assembly body (2), and the filter assembly (1) includes a shaft (5) extending along an axis (XX) and consisting of a command portion (54) on which the filter portion (53) is mounted, and a support portion (56) axially disposed between the filter portion (53) and the command portion (54), and the filter assembly (1) includes a filter group (3) and a filter portion (53) threadedly engaged by their respective filter threads (38) and shaft threads (538) in a manner that prevents further threading of the filter group (3) until the filter group (3) is threaded onto the shaft (5) and the support bearing (6) is axially engaged.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a blow-by gas filtration assembly.

[0002] In particular, the blow-by gas filtration assembly of the present invention is fluidly connectable to a crankcase ventilation circuit of an internal combustion engine system within a vehicle, and is capable of receiving blow-by gas (from said crankcase) and filtering suspended particles contained therein therefrom.

[0003] Specifically, "blow-by gas" means oil vapors discharged from the crankcase of an internal combustion engine during its operation. In particular, said blow-by gases have a composition similar to that of the exhaust gases and are generated by the combustion of an air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. Instead of reaching the exhaust gas discharge circuit, these gases leak to the bottom of the crankcase and flow along the cylinders, bringing with them carbon particles and oil droplets. In this paper, for the sake of simplicity, blow-by gases are considered to consist of air and suspended particles, said suspended particles consisting of oil droplets and / or carbonaceous fine particles. [Background technology]

[0004] In the state of the art, filtering assembly solutions are known which are fluidly connectable to the crankcase and suitable for evacuating the blow-by gases therefrom.

[0005] In particular, blow-by gas filtration assembly solutions are known which separate unwanted suspended particles from said blow-by gases and consist of a group of filters for such purpose.

[0006] In the state of the art, several embodiments of filtration assemblies are known which include a filter group consisting of a porous type filter medium driven in rotation by a specific electric drive so that suspended particles are separated from the air both by passing through the porous material and by the action of centrifugal force.

[0007] In some known embodiments, the filtration assembly includes a specialized electrical drive that engages and commands rotation of the filters. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] These embodiments typically present complex and imprecise engagement means between the electric drive and the filter group, which typically involve complex assembly methods, among other difficulties in obtaining a filtration assembly in which the electric drive and the filter group are correctly aligned with respect to the axis of rotation.

[0009] In the aforementioned state of the art, therefore, there is a strong felt need to have a blow-by gas filtration assembly which solves such problems.

[0010] The object of the invention is to provide a new embodiment of a blow-by gas filtration assembly with simplified and reliable mutual positioning of the filter group and the electric drive. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] This object is achieved by a blow-by gas filtration assembly as claimed in claim 1. The dependent claims present variants of the preferred embodiment having further advantageous aspects. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a blow-by gas filtration assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2(a)] 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the blow-by gas filtration assembly of FIG. 1 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 2(b)] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 2(a) in a separated state. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of some of the components included in the blow-by gas filtration assembly in a separated state. [Figure 4(a)]FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the components shown in FIG. 3 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 4(b)] 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the components shown in FIG. 3 in an assembled configuration. [Figure 5a] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a shaft mounting a rotor configured in a blow-by gas filtration assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5b] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a filter group arranged in a blow-by gas filtration assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6(a)] FIG. 5b is a perspective view of a shaft mounting the rotor shown in FIG. 5a. [Figure 6(b)] FIG. 5b is a perspective view of a shaft mounting the rotor shown in FIG. 5a. [Figure 7] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a blow-by gas filtration assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will in any event become apparent from the description given below of preferred embodiments thereof, given as non-limiting examples with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

[0014] With reference to the accompanying drawings, the reference numeral 1 indicates a blow-by gas filtration assembly suitable for performing a filtering / separating function on particles (liquid and / or solid) suspended in a gas stream.

[0015] The blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 is fluidly connectable to the crankcase ventilation circuit of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, receives blow-by gases therefrom, filters suspended particles contained therein, and returns a flow of clean (i.e., filtered) gases to other vehicle systems, such as, for example, an engine air intake circuit in communication with a combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine.

[0016] Preferably, said blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 is directly mountable to the crankcase of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle, and in one embodiment, although the invention is not limited in this respect, the blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 is a stand-alone device including respective inlet and outlet ports in respective communication with the crankcase for receiving the blow-by gas to be filtered, and an intake circuit for recirculating the gas flow filtered of solid and liquid particles towards the combustion chamber.

[0017] According to the invention, the filtration assembly 1 includes an XX axis along which the components described below extend or are arranged.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 comprises: assembly Preferably, the other components of the system include the above-mentioned, as will be described broadly below and as will be apparent from the exemplary figures attached below. assembly 2 is positioned within or on

[0019] especially, assembly The body 2 is a filter in which the filtering / separation operation of the blow-by gas is performed. room 20. Therefore, filtration room 20 is fluidly connected to the crankcase ventilation circuit of the vehicle's internal combustion engine to receive dirty blow-by gases, i.e., those containing suspended particles (solid and / or liquid), and to discharge clean blow-by gases, i.e., those free of suspended particles, to the engine air intake system.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the assembly 2 includes a respective blow-by gas inlet and outlet.

[0021] Preferably, assembly 2 includes an inlet mouth 21 fluidly connected with the crankcase ventilation circuit of the vehicle for receiving the blow-by gas to be filtered. Preferably, said inlet mouth is made radially spaced from the XX axis, for example substantially parallel thereto. Preferably, said inlet mouth is assembly Preferably, the inlet mouth defines a filtering chamber 20. assembly It is made on the wall of body 2.

[0022] Furthermore, preferably, the assembly 2 includes an outlet mouth 22. Said outlet mouth 22 is made in a radial direction spaced from the XX axis, for example substantially parallel thereto.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the outlet mouth 22 comprises: assembly The outlet mouth 22 and the inlet mouth 21 are preferably spaced apart from each other along the axis XX. Preferably, the outlet mouth 22 and the inlet mouth 21 are axially parallel to each other.

[0024] Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, assembly 2 is comprised of a main body 210 and a complementary body 220 that are mutually engageable, as will be more fully described below and illustrated in the accompanying figures.

[0025] According to the invention, the blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 comprises a filter group 3 which is particularly suitable for carrying out said filtering / separating operation of particles suspended in the blow-by gas. room It is positionable and operable within 20.

[0026] Filter group 3 is ,tree The cavity 300 extends along the XX axis.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter group 3 has a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0028] filter group 3 is radially traversable by blow-by gases.

[0029] According to the invention, a filter group3 is radially traversable by the blow-by gas. group 3 is radially traversable from outside to inside by blow-by gases.

[0030] Preferably, the inlet mouth 21 is a filter group According to a preferred embodiment, the inlet mouth radially faces the outer surface of the filter group 3.

[0031] Preferably, the outlet mouth 22 in turn faces the filter group 3 substantially radially.

[0032] In other words, the filter group 3 is, filter In the exhaust chamber 20, a dirty side where the blow-by gas to be filtered exists and a clean side where the filtered blow-by gas exists are specified. An inlet mouth 21 is fluidly connected to the dirty side, and an outlet mouth 22 is fluidly connected to the clean side.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter group 3 includes filter media 30. Radially crossable filter media 30 includes star-pleated nonwoven fabric or porous cylindrical septa.

[0034] Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, a filter group 3 is a first filter arranged at both axial ends of the filter medium 30; plate 31 and the second filter plate Includes 32.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter group 3 is housed inside the filter media 30 and the filter plate The two filters 31 and 32 are connected together while rotating. plateIt includes a central structure 33 joining 31, 32. Preferably, said central structure 33 has a plurality of radially extending openings 330 adapted to allow the passage of the fluid to be filtered.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the central structure 33 is a stand-alone component that is attachable to the first filter plate 31 and the second filter plate 32 .

[0037] According to another embodiment variant, the central structure 33 is connected to the first filter plate 31 or to the second filter plate 32. 2F It is made integral with the filter plate 32.

[0038] Further, in accordance with a preferred embodiment, a filter group 3 includes an outer structure 34 which surrounds the filter medium 30 on the outside and joins the two filter plates 31, 32. Preferably, said outer structure 34 instead has a plurality of radial through openings 340 suitable for allowing the passage of blow-by gases.

[0039] According to a preferred embodiment, the cavity 300 extends through at least one plate, preferably through the first filter plate 31. 2F The second filter plate 32 is closed. In a variant embodiment, the second filter plate 32 has an opening instead.

[0040] According to the invention, the filtration assembly 1 further comprises a command drive operatively connected to the filter group 3 for commanding a rotation about the XX axis.

[0041] According to the invention, the filtration assembly 1 further includes an electric drive 4 operatively connected to the filter group 3 for commanding its rotation about the axis XX.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the electric drive 4 comprises an electric motor unit 40, which comprises a stator 41 and a rotor 42. The actuation of the starter 41 causes the rotor 42 to rotate. In particular, the circulation of current in the windings of the stator 41 causes the rotation of the rotor 42 and thus the filter group 3. According to a preferred embodiment, the electric motors 40 are of the brushless type.

[0043] According to a preferred embodiment, the electric motor is adapted to filter the electric motor according to the operating conditions of the vehicle. group 3 allows the rotation speed to be varied.

[0044] According to a preferred embodiment, the electric drive 4 is electrically connected to a vehicle command unit, ECU, to command the operation of the filtration assembly 1 according to the operational needs of the vehicle. Preferably, the electric drive 4 is electrically connected to the ECU vehicle command unit by an electrical connector 49, preferably assembly It is integrated into the auxiliary body 220 of the main body 2.

[0045] According to a preferred embodiment, the electric drive 4 includes an electronic card which communicates with a vehicle command unit to command the operation of the filtration assembly according to the operating conditions of the vehicle.

[0046] According to a preferred embodiment, rotor 42 includes one or more elements of ferromagnetic material arranged in the shape of a toroid.

[0047] According to the invention, the blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 comprises a support and a command shaft 5 .

[0048] Such a shaft 5 extends along the axis XX and is particularly suitable for being operatively connected to the filter group 3 and to the electric drive 4 .

[0049] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 extends inside the filter group 3 and inside the electric drive 4, as will be explained below and shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0050] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 includes inside it at least one air duct 50 through which the blow-by gases flow.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment, said air duct 50 extends axially throughout the shaft 5. In other words, the shaft 5 is a hollow body.

[0052] According to a variant of embodiment, said air duct 50 extends axially through only a portion of the shaft 5 .

[0053] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 is made as a single piece.

[0054] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 is made as a single piece from a thermoplastic material.

[0055] According to an alternative embodiment, the shaft is a hollow body consisting of two or more parts which can be reversibly or irreversibly coupled to each other mechanically (e.g. by welding, mechanical couplings, screws, etc.) so as to form a single part whose components rotate synchronously upon command by the electric drive 4.

[0056] According to the invention, the shaft 5 consists of separate parts having different purposes and is in particular suitable for engaging or to be engaged with separate components.

[0057] According to the invention, the shaft comprises a filter part 53 in which the filter group 3 is mounted. Preferably, in said filter part 53, the blow-by gases flow and are fluidly connected to the cavity 300; in said filter part 53, the air duct 50 extends.

[0058] According to the invention, the shaft 5 further comprises a command part 54 operatively connected to the electric drive 4. In other words, the shaft 5 comprises a command part 54 suitable for interacting with the electric drive 4 in order to determine the rotation of the shaft 5 and the filter group 3 connected thereto. In particular, the rotor 42 is attached to said command part 54.

[0059] In particular, according to the present invention, the commanded rotation of the rotor 42 drives the shaft 5 and thus the filter group The rotor 42 and the filter 43 are rotated in a clockwise direction. group The rotor 42 and the filter 53 are integrally attached to the command portion 54 and the filter portion 53, respectively, on the shaft 5. In particular, the term "integrally" used in this specification refers to the rotor 42 and the filter group This means that the rotor 3 is mechanically connected to the shaft 5 so as to rotate integrally (or synchronously) with the shaft 5.

[0060] According to a preferred embodiment, the rotor 42 is integrated onto the shaft 5, the latter preferably made of a thermoplastic material and formed by overmolding.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment, the rotor 42 is integrated on the shaft 5 by form fitting or interference.

[0062] According to the present invention, the blow-by gas filter assembly 1 is provided with a shaft 5 centered about the axis XX, assembly So that it can rotate with respect to body 2 assembly Support suitable for supporting body 2 Bearings Includes 6.

[0063] In particular, the shaft 5 comprises a bearing portion 56 in which said support bearing 6 is mounted.

[0064] The support bearing 6 radially engages the support portion 56 and is external to the assembly 2 .

[0065] In particular, the support bearing 6 is orbit Ring 61 and the outside orbit and a ring 62.

[0066] Preferably, side track The ring 61 is engaged with the shaft 5, side track Ring 62 is assembly The body 2 is engaged with the

[0067] According to the present invention, the support portion 56 is minutes 53 and the command unit 54 in the axial direction.

[0068] filter group 3 includes a filter screw 38 and is attached to the filter portion of the shaft 5 minutes 53 includes shaft threads 538 which are interengageable when threaded.

[0069] According to the invention, a filter group 3 and the filter section minutes 53 and the associated mutual axial displacement between the filter group 3 engages with the support bearing 6. Preferably, the filter group 3 axially engages with a support bearing 6 .

[0070] Preferably, the filter group The axial engagement of the filter with the support bearing 6 of the filter group This prevents further screwing of 3 onto shaft 5.

[0071] Preferably, the axial engagement of the filter group 3 with the support bearing 6 prevents further movement of the support bearing 6 .

[0072] Preferably, the axial engagement of the filter group 3 with the support bearing 6 keeps the position of the support bearing 6 fixed relative to the assembly 2 .

[0073] Preferably, when screwing in, the filter group 3 discharges the closing torque to the support bearing 6. In other words, the support bearing 6 is groupIn other words, the support bearing 6 acts as an axial shoulder for the filter group 3 acts as an end stop against rotation when it is threaded onto shaft 5.

[0074] Preferably, the filter group The axial engagement of the filter 3 with the support bearing 6 group 3 allows the necessary closing torque to ensure synchronous rotation with shaft 5.

[0075] According to the present invention, there is further provided a filter group The filter 3 is threadedly engaged with the filter portion 53 and the associated reciprocating axial displacement of the filter. group 3 engages with the support bearing 6 to block it axially.

[0076] Preferably, the filter group 3 is the inside of the support bearing 6 orbit The annular shoulder 316 is adapted to engage the ring 61. In particular, the annular shoulder 316 is adapted to engage the inner orbit That is, the annular shoulder 316 is adapted to engage a radially inwardly extending surface of the ring 61. orbit It engages the ring shoulder 61 .

[0077] Preferably, the filter group 3 is the inside of the support bearing 6 Orbital Ring 61, preferably on the inner side of the support bearing 6 Orbital Ring 61. It includes an annular shoulder 316 adapted for axial contact with the bearing 61.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the annular shoulder 316 is a plane that is at least partially disposed on a plane transverse to the XX axis, preferably perpendicular to the XX axis, and is aligned with the support bearing 6, preferably the inner side of the support bearing 6. orbit It is adapted to at least partially engage with the ring 61 .

[0079] According to a further preferred embodiment, the annular shoulder 316 is a wavy or notched or irregular surface arranged at least partially on a plane transverse to the axis XX, preferably on a plane perpendicular to the axis XX, and provides support. Bearings 6, preferably supported Bearings Inside 6 orbit It is adapted to at least partially engage with the ring 61 .

[0080] According to a further preferred embodiment, the annular shoulder 316 is an abutment surface formed by a series of preferably equidistant mutually spaced ribs arranged on the filter group, e.g. on a first plate or central structure, at least partially arranged in a plane transverse to the XX axis, preferably perpendicular to the XX axis.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment, an annular shoulder 316 is configured on the first filter plate 31. Preferably, the annular shoulder 316 surrounds the first plate opening 310.

[0082] According to a preferred embodiment, an annular shoulder 316 is configured on the central structure 33. Preferably, the annular shoulder 316 surrounds the first plate opening 310.

[0083] Preferably, the annular shoulder 316 extends at a height parallel to the XX axis.

[0092] Preferably, the annular shoulder 316 has a thickness extending radially relative to the axis XX.

[0084] According to a preferred embodiment, the threaded engagement between the filter threads 38 and the shaft threads 538 involves axial translation of the filter 3 and engagement with the bearing 6 by performing a clamping action on the annular shoulder 316 .

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter threads 38 are lead threads and the shaft threads 538 are threads.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter threads 38 are threads and the shaft threads 538 are lead threads.

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter group 3 is a shaft 5 and thus a filter during the filtering operation. group 3 is screwed onto a shaft 5 in a direction opposite to the direction of rotation in which it is driven in rotation by an electric drive 4 .

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the support bearing 6 is arranged on the shaft 5 at a defined axial position and is engaged on the one hand by the filter group 3 and on the other hand by the rotor 42 or at least one shaft abutment element 520 or by the assembly 2.

[0089] In other words, the support bearing 6 is a filter. group 3 and an axially fixed abutment present on the shaft 5. In other words, the support bearing 6 is clamped onto the shaft 5.

[0090] According to a preferred embodiment, said fixed abutment is made integral with the shaft 5. Preferably, the shaft 5 comprises at least one shaft abutment element 520 suitable for fulfilling the function of a fixed abutment for the support bearing 6.

[0091] According to a preferred embodiment, said fixed abutment is realised by a rotor 42 which is integrally mounted on the shaft 5 .

[0092] According to a further preferred embodiment, said fixed abutment is realised by an assembly 2 .

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment, the fixed abutment is a support Bearings Inside 6 orbit It is adapted to axially engage with the ring 61 .

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 further comprises an outlet portion 52 fluidly connected to the air duct 50 and comprising at least one outlet window 525 through which the blow-by gases flow.

[0095] Thus, according to a preferred embodiment, the air duct 50 extends at least between the filter portion 53 and the outlet portion 52. According to a preferred embodiment, in which the filters cross radially from the outside to the inside, the filtered blow-by gases flow through the filter portion 53 towards the outlet portion 52. According to a preferred embodiment, the outlet portion 52 is arranged axially between the filter portion 53 and the command portion 54.

[0096] Preferably, the outflow portion 52 is axially disposed between the support portion 56 and the command portion 54. In other words, the support portion 56 is disposed between the filter portion 54 and the command portion 54. minutes 53 and the outlet portion 52 in the axial direction.

[0097] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow portion 52 includes a plurality of outflow windows 525 arranged annularly around the XX axis, each window 525 having: shaft Successive windows are spaced apart by abutment elements 520 .

[0098] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow portion 52 serves as an axial abutment for the support bearing 6 .

[0099] According to a preferred embodiment, 2F The filter plate 32 is closed and the shaft 5 traverses the first plate 31 along the axis XX through the respective first plate opening 310. Preferably, the filter part 53 defines at least one air intake 530 through which the blow-by gases flow.

[0100] In other words, the air intake 530 fluidly connects the air duct 50 and the cavity 300 .

[0101] Preferably, the filter section minutes53 is provided at its axial end with an air intake 530 through which blow-by gas flows. Preferably, the air intake 530 is arranged perpendicular to the XX axis. Preferably, the air intake 530 is arranged parallel to the XX axis. Preferably, the air intake 530 has a plurality of openings perpendicular to the XX axis and / or parallel to the XX axis.

[0102] According to a preferred embodiment, the second filter plate 32 instead has a second plate opening 320 .

[0103] Preferably, the shaft 5 traverses said second plate opening 320 along the axis XX.

[0104] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 engages with the edge of said second plate opening 320. 2F Said engagement with the filter plate 32 is effected by threading.

[0105] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter portion 53 includes radial openings 535 adapted to provide fluid communication between the air duct 50 and the cavity 300 .

[0106] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 sealingly engages the filter group 3 in two sealing areas.

[0107] Preferably, the radial opening 535 is axially disposed between the two sealing regions.

[0108] Preferably, said two regions are positioned on two filter plates 31, 32. Preferably, said engagement is achieved by means of two specific threaded couplings.

[0109] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter thread 38 is 1F The filter plate 31 is configured.

[0110] According to a preferred embodiment, the filter thread 38 is 2F The filter plate 32 is configured.

[0111] According to a preferred embodiment, said filter threads 38 are arranged in a central structure 33 .

[0112] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5, preferably the filter part 53, comprises an anti-rotation element 539 suitable for performing a radial action to lock the filter group 3 screwed onto the shaft 5. In other words, the anti-rotation element 539 is adapted to prevent the filter group 3 from being rotated by the anti-rotation element 539. group 3 and the shaft 5. In other words, the anti-rotation element 539 is suitable for preventing unwanted unscrewing of the threaded coupling.

[0113] According to a preferred embodiment, the anti-rotation element 539 is an element that elastically yields in the radial direction during the screwing operation.

[0114] Preferably, the anti-rotation element 539 is suitable for snap-fitting into a radial through-opening 330 made on the central structure 33 .

[0115] According to a preferred embodiment, the anti-rotation element 539 has an inclined sliding surface that is specially shaped to promote radial action.

[0116] Preferably, the anti-rotation element 539 has a first inclined sliding surface adapted to interact during a screwing operation, and more preferably, the anti-rotation element 539 has a second inclined sliding surface adapted to interact to enable an unscrewing operation (requiring minimal initial rotational force).

[0117] According to a preferred embodiment, the inclination of the first inclined sliding surface is different from the inclination of the second inclined sliding surface, in particular the two sliding surfaces have different inclinations relative to each other so as to appropriately dimension the turning forces that allow the screwing, the forces that maintain the screw connection and the forces that allow the disengagement.

[0118] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 is configured to include a closing wall (not shown) inside the air duct 50 suitable for closing said air duct 50 to force the escape of filtered blow-by gases through at least one exit window 525.

[0119] According to a preferred embodiment, the closure wall is located in the command portion 54 adjacent the outflow portion 52 .

[0120] Preferably, the closure wall 55 is shaped to promote the outflow of blow-by gases towards the at least one outflow window 525 .

[0121] As described above, the assembly 2 is composed of a main body 210 and an auxiliary body 220 which are capable of sealingly engaging with each other along the XX axis.

[0122] Preferably, the connection between the main body 210 and the auxiliary body 220 hermetically defines the filtration chamber 20. Preferably, said filtration chamber 20 is housed in a main body 210, which is closed at one axial end by an auxiliary body 220.

[0123] Preferably, both the inlet mouth 21 and the outlet mouth 22 are defined in the body 210 .

[0124] According to a preferred embodiment, the main body 210 and the auxiliary body 220 of the interconnection further define an outflow chamber 250 fluidly connected to the outflow part 52 of the shaft 5, preferably to the blow-by gas outlet mouth 22. Preferably, said outflow chamber 250 is fluidly connected to the clean side of said filtering chamber 20 by said shaft 5 and is hermetically separated from said filtering chamber 20. Preferably, said outflow chamber 250 is fluidly connected to the clean side of the filtering chamber by at least one outflow window 520.

[0125] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is at least partially contained within the body 210 .

[0126] Preferably, the outflow chamber 250 extends at least partially around the axis XX. Preferably, the outflow chamber 250 has an annular extension.

[0127] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is radially bounded by a collar wall 222 of the auxiliary body 220 arranged in a region proximal to the XX axis and a housing wall 212 arranged on the main body 210 arranged in a region distal to the XX axis.

[0128] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is axially bounded by a bottom wall 221 and a top wall 223 extending radially relative to the axis XX.

[0129] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is axially bounded by a bottom wall 221 and a top wall 223 configured in the auxiliary body 220, which extend radially starting from the collar wall 222 with respect to the axis XX.

[0130] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is fluidly connected to the outflow section 52 by at least one body window 225 through which blow-by gases flow exiting from or input towards the at least one outflow window 520.

[0131] Preferably, the collar portion 222 defines at least one body window 225 .

[0132] According to a preferred embodiment, the collar portion 222 annularly faces the shaft 5 at at least one outlet window 520 .

[0133] Thus, preferably, the at least one outflow window 520 and the at least one body window 225 are radially aligned.

[0134] According to a preferred embodiment, both the bottom wall 221 and the top wall 223 sealingly engage the body 210 .

[0135] Preferably, the top wall 223 radially engages the main body 210, as shown in the accompanying drawings. Preferably, proximal to the containing wall 212, the main body 210 defines an abutment step 214 axially engageable by the sub-body 220.

[0136] Preferably, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the bottom wall 221 radially engages the main body 210. Preferably, at one radial end thereof, the bottom wall 221 is adapted to receive a gasket element.

[0137] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is shaped to promote the outflow of blow-by gases.

[0138] According to a preferred embodiment, the outflow chamber 250 is shaped to facilitate the flow path of the filtered blow-by gases towards the outlet mouth 22. Preferably, for example, the outflow chamber 250 is radially wider in the region distal to the XX axis. Preferably, in fact, the bottom wall 221 has a specially inclined radial extension, i.e. is formed conically.

[0139] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft extends partially into the main body 210 and partially into the auxiliary body 220 .

[0140] According to a preferred embodiment, the auxiliary body 220 comprises a stator housing 220' in which the stator 41 is housed.

[0141] Preferably, the stator 41 is axially inserted into the stator housing 220'.

[0142] Preferably, the stator 41 is integral with the auxiliary body 220. For example, the auxiliary body 220 integrates therein the stator 41. Preferably, the auxiliary body 220 is made of a thermoplastic material and the stator 41 is co-molded together with the auxiliary body 220.

[0143] According to a preferred embodiment, a support bearing 6, preferably an outer orbit The ring 62 is axially engaged with the auxiliary body 220 on the side opposite the filter group 3 .

[0144] Preferably, the support bearing 6 engages the collar wall 222 .

[0145] According to a preferred embodiment, the blow-by gas filter assembly 1 is engaged with a shaft 5. assembly Upper auxiliary support for body 2 Bearings Contains 7.

[0146] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is axially spaced from the support bearing 6 .

[0147] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is engaged on the shaft 5 near the electric drive 4 and is arranged to be engaged on an auxiliary body 220, for example.

[0148] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is engaged with the command portion 54 .

[0149] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is accommodated inside the command shaft 5. Preferably, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 radially engages with the centering pin 227 provided on the auxiliary body 220 on the inner periphery side, and radially engages with the inner surface of the command part of the shaft 5 on the outer periphery side.

[0150] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is housed inside the shaft 5 and closes the air duct 50 to facilitate the escape of blow-by gases.

[0151] According to a preferred embodiment, the upper auxiliary support bearing 7 is mounted on the outside of the command shaft 5 .

[0152] According to a preferred embodiment, the blow-by gas filtration assembly 1 also includes a second lower auxiliary support bearing 8 .

[0153] Preferably, the lower auxiliary support bearing 8 is adapted to ensure that the shaft 5 is centred on the XX axis so as to be centred with the stator axis.

[0154] Preferably, the lower auxiliary support bearing 8 is located proximal to the second filter plate 32 .

[0155] According to a preferred embodiment, the lower auxiliary support bearing 8 is 2F The filter plate 32 is engaged with the filter.

[0156] According to a further preferred embodiment, the lower auxiliary support bearing 8 is engaged on the shaft 5 , preferably on the filter part 53 .

[0157] For example, the lower auxiliary support bearing 8 is engaged to the shaft 5 at its end which overruns through the second plate opening and is engaged to the assembly 2 , preferably the body 210 .

[0158] According to the invention, the terms support bearing, upper auxiliary support bearing and lower auxiliary support bearing refer to both plain bearings and roller bearings.

[0159] According to a preferred embodiment, the engagement of the bearings with the shaft and with the respective supports is sealed.

[0160] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 is made of a thermoplastic material obtained by a single moulding process.

[0161] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS).

[0162] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) based material.

[0163] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of a polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) based material reinforced with fiberglass (PPS+GF15, PPS+GF30, PPS+GF40).

[0164] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of a nylon-based material (PA, PA6, PA6.6 or mixtures thereof).

[0165] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of a nylon-based material reinforced with fiberglass (PA+GF, PA 6.6+GF35, PA 6+PA 6.6+GF 35).

[0166] Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of a material made of a polyamide compound (e.g., PPA).

[0167] According to a preferred embodiment, the shaft 5 is made of metal. Preferably, the shaft 5 is made of an aluminium alloy.

[0168] Innovatively, the blow-by gas filtration assembly of the present invention broadly fulfills the objects of the present invention. Innovatively, the blow-by gas filtration assembly exhibits a new and innovative shape, but especially a new and innovative method of supporting and engaging the various components.

[0169] Advantageously, the blow-by gas filtration assembly has a shaft of simple construction and is therefore easy to manufacture.

[0170] Advantageously, the filtration assembly uses an abutment surface provided by a component (such as a bearing) operatively coupled to the shaft to ensure a preset torque of the threaded coupling, thereby simplifying the shaft structure and making the filtration assembly more compact.

[0171] Advantageously, the filtration assembly includes a support operatively coupled to the shaft. Bearings This uses the abutment surfaces provided by the lubricated components, which reduces the friction generated by rotation and therefore the stresses in the electric drive, making the assembly more reliable.

[0172] Advantageously, the support bearing is arranged at a position. Particularly advantageously, the support bearing is arranged on the shaft at a position. Particularly advantageously, the support bearing is arranged at a position assembly is positioned on the body.

[0173] Advantageously, alignment between the rotation axis of the filter group and the rotation axis of the electric motor is ensured without the use of additional alignment / compensation elements.

[0174] Advantageously, the rotation axis of the filter group and the rotation axis of the electric motor are always aligned with one another. Advantageously, the blow-by gas filtration assembly has very compact dimensions.

[0175] Advantageously, assembly The body is designed to distinguish and fluidly separate the filtration chamber from the outflow chamber in a simple and effective manner. assembly The body comprises a main body and a secondary body, the mutual engagement of which defines the chamber.

[0176] Advantageously, the blow-by gas filtration assembly has a very limited number of components. Advantageously, the blow-by gas filtration assembly has a small number of components to align and rotate compared to prior solutions.

[0177] Advantageously, the blow-by gas filtration assembly has a limited number of gaskets. Advantageously, the filter group axially sealingly engages the support bearing, eliminating an additional gasket between the shaft and the filter group.

[0178] Advantageously, the threaded coupling simplifies assembly of the filtration assembly.

[0179] Advantageously, the threaded coupling between the shaft and the filter group makes it possible to axially lock the support bearing in the correct working position, eliminating the need for additional components for such purpose.

[0180] Advantageously, the interengagement area between the filter group and the shaft is very compact and therefore it is possible to optimize the use of the available space, for example by offering the possibility of increasing the filtering surface area of ​​the filter group and thus reducing the pressure loss imposed by the filtering assembly on the crankcase ventilation circuit, for the same flow rate of gas to be filtered.

[0181] Advantageously, the threaded coupling allows the filter group to be assembled onto a shaft which is connected to the electric drive and supported by an auxiliary body which is then connected in turn to the main body without the need for additional parts to ensure alignment between the rotational axis of the filter group and the rotational axis of the electric drive, making the assembly of the filter assembly simpler and more reliable.

[0182] Advantageously, the filter assembly of the present invention comprises an auxiliary body (e.g. an electric motor) and assemblyIt ensures compliance with the dimensional tolerances for the mechanical connection between the main bodies of the body and at the same time ensures alignment between the rotation axis of the electric motor and the rotation axis of the shaft and thus of the filter group.

[0183] Advantageously, the pre-set torque of the threaded coupling on the support bearing between the shaft and the filter group allows for minimizing the clearance along the shaft axis, reducing stress on the components that rotate the filter group and therefore extending the service life of the components included in the assembly.

[0184] Advantageously, the pre-set torque of the threaded coupling on the support bearing makes it possible to support and rotate the filter element at the same time, which helps to reduce the number of parts required for this purpose and therefore the weight of the assembly and therefore increases its reliability.

[0185] Advantageously, the preset torque of the threaded coupling on the support bearing makes it possible to reduce the number of components and the weight of the filtration assembly, thus reducing the power of the electric drive, simplifying its structure and reducing its costs.

[0186] Advantageously, the lighter weight of the assembly can contribute to building lighter vehicles, which can result in reduced fuel consumption.

[0187] Advantageously, a threaded coupling, the screwing direction of which is realised opposite to the main direction of rotation of the command shaft during filtering operation, prevents undesired disengagement of the filter group and thus realises a safe, self-closing fastening device.

[0188] Advantageously, the threaded coupling simplifies servicing and maintenance of the filter element, and also makes it safer and cleaner.

[0189] Advantageously, the threaded coupling can be hydraulically sealed, avoiding the use of additional seals mounted on the filter group or command shaft, further simplifying assembly and making it lighter, more reliable and less expensive. [Explanation of symbols]

[0190] 1 Blow-by Gas Filter Assembly 2 assembly body 20 Filtration chamber 21 Entrance 22 Outlet 210 Main unit 212 Housing Wall 214 Contact Step 220 Auxiliary Body 220' stator housing 221 Bottom wall 222 Color Wall 223 Upper Wall 225 Body Window 227 Centering pin 250 Outflow chamber 3 Filters 30 Filter media 31st 1F Filter Plate 310 First plate opening 316 Annular Shoulder 32th 2F Filter Plate 320 Second plate opening 33 central structure 330 central radial through opening 34 External structure 340 Outer radial through opening 38 Filter Threads 300 Cavity 4 Electric drive unit 40 Electric Motor Unit 41 Stator 42 Rotor 49 Electrical Connectors 5-axis 50 Air Duct 52 Outlet 520 Shaft abutment element 525 Outflow Window 53 Filter section minutes 530 Central air intake 535 Radial opening 538 Shaft Thread 539 Anti-rotation Element 54 Command Department minutes 56 Support part 6 Support Bearing 61 Inner Circle orbit ring 62 Circumference orbit ring 7 Upper Support Support Bearing 8 Lower support Support Bearing XX Rotation Axis

Claims

1. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) fluidly connectable to a crankcase ventilation circuit of an internal combustion engine for receiving blow-by gases and filtering them from suspended particles contained therein, the blow-by gas filtration assembly having an axis (X-X), i) an assembly (2) including a filtering chamber (20), an inlet mouth (21) for the blow-by gas to be filtered, and an outlet mouth (22) for the filtered blow-by gas; ii) a filter group (3) including a cavity (300) radially traversable by blow-by gas; iii) an electric drive (4) operatively connected to said filter group (3) for commanding rotation about an axis (X-X) and for carrying out a filtering operation, said electric drive (4) comprising an electric motor (40) including a stator (41) and a rotor (42); iv) a shaft (5) extending along an axis (X-X), a filter part (53) on which said filter group (3) is mounted, a command part (54) to which said rotor (42) is attached; a shaft (5) including a support portion (56) arranged axially between said filter portion (53) and said command portion (54); v) a support bearing (6) radially engaging said support portion (56) on the inside and engaging said assembly (2) on the outside; Including, The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1), characterized in that the filter group (3) and the filter portion (53) respectively comprise a filter screw (38) and a shaft screw (538) which are screwable into each other, the filter group (3) screwed onto the shaft (5) axially engages with the support bearing (6), and the axial engagement between the filter group (3) and the support bearing (6) prevents further screwing of the filter group (3).

2. 2. The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) of claim 1, wherein the support bearing (6) includes an inner raceway ring (61) radially engaging the support portion (56) and an outer raceway ring (62) engaging the assembly (2), and the filter group (3) includes an annular shoulder (316) suitable for engaging with the inner raceway ring (61).

3. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the support bearing (6) is arranged on the shaft (5) at a set axial position, with the filter group (3) engaging on one side and the rotor (42) or at least one shaft abutment element (520) or the assembly (2) engaging on the other side.

4. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the shaft (5) includes an air duct (50) therein through which blow-by gas flows, and the filter portion (53) is fluidly connected to the cavity (300).

5. and an outflow portion (52) axially disposed between said filter portion (53) and said command portion (54), The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) according to claim 4, wherein said outlet portion (52) is fluidly connected to the air duct (50) and comprises at least one outlet window (525) through which the blow-by gases flow.

6. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in claim 5, wherein the support portion (56) is axially arranged between the filter portion (53) and the outlet portion (52).

7. The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the outlet portion (52) comprises a plurality of outlet windows (525) arranged in a ring around the axis (X-X), each window (525) being separated from successive windows by a shaft abutment element (520).

8. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the filter group (3) includes a filter medium (30) and a first filter plate (31) and a second filter plate (32) respectively arranged at the ends of the filter medium (30).

9. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in claim 8, wherein the filter group (3) includes a central structure (33) that can be accommodated in the cavity (300) and includes radial through holes (330) through which blow-by gas flows, and filter screws (38) are arranged on the first filter plate (31) or on the second filter plate (32) or on the central structure (33).

10. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the second filter plate (32) is in a closed state without any opening, the shaft (5) passes through the first filter plate (31) along the axis (X-X) by passing through the first plate opening (310), and includes at least one air inlet mouth (530) on the filter portion (53) through which the blow-by gas flows.

11. The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the second filter plate (32) has a second plate opening (320), and the shaft (5) passes through the second plate opening (320) along an axis (X-X).

12. The blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) of claim 11, wherein the shaft (5) extends axially through the second plate opening (320), and the blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) includes a lower auxiliary support bearing (8) that engages with an axial end that protrudes through the second plate opening (320).

13. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the shaft (5) includes an anti-rotation element (539) suitable for engaging with the filter group (3) screwed onto the shaft (5) and acting radially to prevent unwanted unscrewing of the threaded coupling.

14. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising an upper auxiliary support bearing (7) engaging with the shaft (5) at the command portion (54).

15. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the filter group (3) is screwed onto the shaft (5) in a rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction in which the shaft (5) and thus the filter group (3) is commanded to rotate by the electric drive unit (4) during the filtering process.

16. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the assembly (2) includes a main body (210) and an auxiliary body (220) sealably engaging with each other along an axis (X-X) so as to air-tightly partition the filtration chamber (20), the filter group (3) being capable of being accommodated in the main body (210), and the electric drive unit (4) being capable of being accommodated in the auxiliary body (220).

17. A blow-by gas filtration assembly (1) as described in claim 16, wherein the main body (210) and the auxiliary body (220) define an outflow chamber (250) through which blow-by gas flows.

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