FILTER CARTRIDGES, AIR CLEANING DEVICE ASSEMBLY, HOUSINGS, FEATURES, COMPONENTS, AND METHODS

Abstract

An air filter cartridge configured to help prevent an improper cartridge from being installed in an air cleaning device housing during servicing, and an air cleaning device assembly including the cartridge, are provided. The cartridge (415) includes a sealing device (420) having a radially facing sealing surface (445a) having at least a first non-corrugated or non-convex section and a second corrugated or convex section (448).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is filed as a PCT International patent application on August 8, 2018. This disclosure incorporates, with correction, the disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,090, filed August 9, 2017. Priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,090 is claimed to the extent appropriate, and the disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,090 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a filter device, typically for filtering air, such as the intake air for an internal combustion engine. In some selected examples, the disclosure is particularly directed to a filter device using a serviceable cartridge having opposing intake and exhaust ends, although other applications are described. The air cleaning device, features, assembly and manufacturing methods are also described. [Background technology]

[0003] Air flows may carry contaminants therein, such as dust or liquid particles. In many instances, it is desirable to filter some or all of the contaminants from the air flow. For example, air flows to engines (e.g., combustion air flows) for automobiles or power plants, gas flows to gas turbine systems, and air flows to various combustion furnaces carry particulate contaminants therein which are to be filtered. For such systems, it is desirable to remove selected contaminants from the air (or reduce the levels in the air). Various air filter devices have been developed for contaminant removal. Improvements are desired. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] In accordance with the present disclosure, an air cleaning device assembly and associated housing, serviceable filter cartridge, and features, components, and methods are disclosed. In general, the features relate to a system configured to help prevent an improper cartridge from being installed in the air cleaning device housing during servicing. Various approaches are described herein that can be used individually or together to achieve desired results. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] 1 is a partial schematic perspective view of a first type of exemplary filter medium usable in a device according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of a filter medium of the type shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] Included are schematic diagrams of examples of various fluted filter media definitions for the filter media types of FIGS. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary process for producing a filter medium of the type of FIGS. 1-3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an optional end fold for flutes of a filter medium of the type of FIGS. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic perspective view of a roll-type filter device usable in a filter cartridge having features according to the present disclosure, for example, made with strips of filter media according to FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 7] 2 is a schematic perspective view of a stacked filter media pack device, for example made from strips of filter media according to FIG. 1, that can be used in a filter device having selected features according to the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 8] 2 is a schematic diagram of the inlet and outlet ends of a filter media pack that uses an alternative filter media to that of FIG. 1 and that may alternatively be used in selected filter cartridges according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram of the intake and exhaust end opposite to that shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter media pack of FIGS. 8 and 8A. [Figure 9]1 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of another alternative type of filter media that can be used in a filter media pack of a filter cartridge having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a first modified type of filter medium of the type of FIG. 9. [Figure 11A] 13 is a schematic partial view of another usable fluted sheet and liner sheet combination according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a second schematic partial view of a filter medium of the type shown in FIG. 11A as displayed in a filter medium pack. [Figure 11C] FIG. 13 is a schematic partial plan view of yet another filter media variation that can be used in the device of the present invention. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram of another variation of a filter medium that can be used in accordance with the present disclosure. [Figure 12A] 13 is a schematic diagram of another usable fluted sheet and liner sheet combination according to the present disclosure. [Figure 12B] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a portion of a usable fluted sheet and liner sheet combination shown in FIG. 64. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of an air cleaning device assembly including features and components according to the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic side view of an exemplary air cleaning device assembly incorporating principles according to the present disclosure; [Figure 14A] FIG. 15 is an outlet end perspective view of the air cleaning device assembly of FIG. 14. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic exploded view of the air cleaning device assembly of FIG. 14. [Figure 15A] FIG. 15 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic inlet end perspective view of the primary filter cartridge of the assembly of FIGS. [Figure 17] 17 is a schematic outlet end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic exploded outlet end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 16 and 17. [Figure 19]FIG. 20 is a schematic exploded inlet end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 16-18. [Figure 20] FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of an optional safety filter cartridge depicted in use in the assembly of FIGS. 14 and 15. [Figure 21] FIG. 16 is a schematic inlet-side plan view of the housing components of the air purification device of FIGS. 14 and 15. [Figure 21A] FIG. 21 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view taken generally along line 21A-21A of FIG. [Figure 22] FIG. 15 is a schematic side view of the air cleaner assembly of FIG. 14, with portions shown in phantom to show internal details relating to the positioning of the primary air filter cartridge. [Diagram 23] FIG. 2 is a schematic sealed end perspective view of a first alternative filter cartridge usable with features of the general air cleaning device assembly being described; [Figure 24] 24 is a schematic sealing end plan view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 23. [Diagram 25] 25 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 23 and 24 taken generally along line 25-25 of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] 26 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 23 and 24 taken generally along line 26-26 of FIG. 24. [Figure 27] FIG. 26 is an enlarged fragmentary view of a particular portion of FIG. 25. [Figure 28] FIG. 25 is a schematic plan view of a molded seal portion of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 23 and 24. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view of the mold seal portion of FIG. 28. [Figure 29A] FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 29A-29A in FIG. 28. [Figure 29B] FIG. 29 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 29B-29B in FIG. 28. [Figure 29C] FIG. 29C is an enlarged schematic fragmentary view of a particular portion of FIG. 29B. [Diagram 30] FIG. 25 is a schematic perspective view of a preform seal support component of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 23 and 24. [Diagram 31] FIG. 31 is a schematic side view of the support flange of the preform seal support portion of FIG. 30. [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 32-32 in FIG. 31. [Diagram 33] 33 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the preform frame support portion of FIG. 30 taken generally along line 33-33 of FIG. 31. [Diagram 34] FIG. 33 is a schematic enlarged fragmentary view of the portion identified in FIG. 32. [Diagram 35] 13 is a schematic perspective view of a third filter cartridge incorporating principles of the present disclosure; FIG. [Diagram 36] 36 is a schematic sealing end plan view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 35. FIG. [Figure 37] 37 is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of the seal portion of the filter cartridge of FIGS. 35 and 36 taken generally along line 37-37 of FIG. 36. [Figure 38] 38 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the seal portion of FIG. 37 taken generally along line 38-38 of FIG. 36. [Figure 39] 11 is a schematic sealed end perspective view of a fourth exemplary filter cartridge incorporating features in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; FIG. [Diagram 40] 40 is a schematic sealing end plan view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 39. [Diagram 41] FIG. 41 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 41-41 in FIG. [Diagram 42] FIG. 42 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken generally along line 42-42 of FIG. [Diagram 43] FIG. 40 is a schematic perspective view of a preform seal support component of the filter cartridge of FIG. 39. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is a schematic plan view of the preform of FIG. 43. [Diagram 45] FIG. 44 is a schematic inner plan view of the preform of FIG. 43. [Diagram 46] FIG. 46 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken generally along line 46-46 of FIG. 45. [Figure 47]1 is a schematic side view of an air cleaning device assembly including a filter cartridge and having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the air cleaning device assembly of FIG. 47. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is an inlet end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 48. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a sealed end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 51] FIG. 50 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 52] FIG. 50 is a schematic outlet end elevational view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 53] 50 is a schematic exploded inlet end perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 54] FIG. 50 is a schematic outlet end exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 49. [Figure 55] 48 is a schematic, partially cut-away view illustrating selected interior details of the air cleaning device assembly of FIG. 47. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the portion identified in FIG. 55. [Figure 57] 1 is an enlarged exploded partial view illustrating a variation of a seal device employing principles of the present disclosure engaged with a variation of a housing seal arrangement employing principles of the present disclosure; [Figure 58] 1 is a schematic plan view of an alternative sealing arrangement employing principles according to the present disclosure; [Figure 59] 1 is a schematic plan view of another alternative sealing arrangement employing principles according to the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 60] FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of a corrugated sealing surface section of the cartridge according to FIG. 24. [Figure 61] 41 is a schematic diagram of an arcuate corrugated seal surface section of a cartridge generally in accordance with the principles discussed above in connection with FIG. 40; [Figure 62] 1 is a schematic diagram showing a portion of a hypothetical standard geometric seal perimeter of a sealing surface of a cartridge generally in accordance with principles described herein. [Figure 63]63 is a schematic diagram of an alternative sealing face to that of FIG. 62 generally in accordance with principles described herein, also showing a portion of the seal perimeter contour of an alternative hypothetical standard geometry. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a schematic diagram of yet another alternative sealing face, but otherwise in accordance with the principles of FIGS. 62 and 63, showing a third hypothetical standard geometric sealing perimeter. [Figure 65] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of an air cleaner housing sealing surface portion according to certain principles described herein. [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is a schematic cross-sectional view of selected housing seal portions engaged with the housing seal surface of FIG. [Figure 67] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a filter cartridge including a sealing device, the first peripheral sealing surface having at least one portion having a contoured profile and having a second peripheral sealing section without contours operatively positioned thereon; [Figure 67A] FIG. 68 is a schematic enlarged fragmentary view of the portion identified in FIG. 67. [Figure 67B] 67B is an enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional schematic view of the portion of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 67A, the view being taken generally along line 67B-67B. [Figure 68] FIG. 67C is a schematic diagram showing a seal portion of a molded filter seal according to FIG. 67B mounted in close engagement with a housing seal surface portion. [Figure 69A] FIG. 67C is an enlarged partial schematic view of a cartridge including a first alternative sealing device to that shown in FIGS. 67-67B. [Figure 69B] FIG. 69B is an enlarged, schematic, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 69A taken along line 69B-69B thereof. [Figure 69C] FIG. 69D is an enlarged, partial schematic view of a second alternative sealing device configuration to that shown in FIGS. 69D-69D. [Figure 69D] FIG. 69D is an enlarged, partially schematic, cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 69C. [Figure 70] 1 is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of a housing component including a sealing surface thereon with which a particular cartridge engages according to principles described herein; [Figure 70A] FIG. 71 is a partial schematic cross-sectional view of the housing portion of FIG. 70 shown with the sealing surface portion engaged according to certain descriptions herein. [Figure 71] 1 is a schematic diagram of an alternative contoured seal surface profile according to the present description. FIG. [Figure 72] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of yet another alternative uneven profile as described herein. [Figure 73] FIG. 73 is a schematic diagram illustrating a seal with a contoured surface according to FIG. 72, but in an alternative orientation. [Figure 74] 1 is a schematic seal perimeter including a custom protrusion therein according to the description herein. [Figure 75] FIG. 75 is a schematic seal perimeter similar to FIG. 74, but depicting an alternative custom perimeter contour. [Figure 76] FIG. 76 is a schematic diagram of the periphery of another alternative seal of FIGS. 74 and 75. [Figure 77] 1 is a partial schematic diagram of a portion of a seal face including a seal protrusion having partitioned sections in accordance with the description herein; [Figure 78] FIG. 78 is a partial schematic view similar to FIG. 77, but showing the seal in an alternative orientation. [Figure 79] 1 is a schematic diagram of an arcuate seal perimeter section having a truncated, outwardly protruding section in accordance with the description herein; [Figure 80] 1 is a schematic diagram of an inwardly facing seal section including an inwardly directed protrusion having a truncated shape, in accordance with the description herein; FIG. [Figure 81] FIG. 80 is a schematic diagram of an alternative to the configuration of FIG. 79. [Figure 82] FIG. 81 is a schematic diagram of an alternative to the configuration of FIG. 80. [Figure 83] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an alternative sealing face to those shown in the previous figures. [Figure 83A] FIG. 84 is a schematic diagram of an alternative configuration of the sealing surface shown in FIG. 83. [Figure 84]1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary housing component for use with a cartridge having a sealing perimeter according to one example of principles described herein. [Figure 85] 87 is an enlarged, partial schematic view of a preform component usable in the filter cartridge according to FIG. 86. [Figure 86] 86 is a partial perspective view of a filter cartridge using components according to FIG. 85 and configured for tight engagement with the housing section according to FIG. 84. FIG. [Figure 87] 1 is a perspective view of an alternative filter cartridge employing principles described herein; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] I. Exemplary Filter Media Configurations in General Principles according to the present disclosure relate to the interaction between a filter cartridge and an air cleaner system in an advantageous manner to achieve a particular selected desired result, as described below. A filter cartridge generally contains a filter media therein through which air and other gases pass during filtering operations. The filter media can be of various types and configurations and can be made from a variety of materials. For example, a cartridge according to principles of the present disclosure can use a pleated filter media arrangement, as described below.

[0007] This principle is particularly well adapted for use in situations where the filter media is fairly deep between the inlet and outlet ends of the cartridge, although other options are possible, and this principle is often used in cartridges with relatively large cross-sectional dimensions, and in such devices alternative types of filter media to pleated media are often desirable.

[0008] In this section, some examples of filter media devices that can be used in the technology described herein are given. However, it will be understood that various alternative types of filter media can be used. The selection of the type of filter media is generally one of preference, such as availability, function in a given situation, ease of manufacture, etc., and the selection does not necessarily relate to the overall function of the selection among the various characteristics of the interaction of the filter cartridge and the air cleaning device characterized herein.

[0009] A. A filter media pack device using a filter media with ridges (flutes) fixed to a liner filter media. Fluted filter media (filter media having ridges) can be used to provide fluid filter structures in a variety of ways. One well-known method is characterized herein as a Z-filter structure. The term "Z-filter structure," as used herein, is intended to include, but is not limited to, a type of filter structure in which stacked, folded, or otherwise formed filter flutes are used to define a longitudinal, typically parallel, collection of intake and exhaust filter flutes (typically combined with a liner media) for fluid flow through the filter media. Some examples of Z-filter media are provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,820,646, 5,772,883, 5,902,364, 5,792,247, 5,895,574, 6,210,469, 6,190,432, 6,350,291, 6,179,890, 6,235,195, U.S. Design Patent No. 399,944, U.S. Design Patent No. 428,128, U.S. Design Patent No. 396,098, U.S. Design Patent No. 398,046, and U.S. Design Patent No. 437,401, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0010] One type of Z-media utilizes two specific media components that are bonded together to form a media structure: (1) a fluted (typically corrugated) media sheet or sheet section, and (2) a liner media sheet or sheet section. The line media sheet is typically not corrugated, but can be corrugated, for example, perpendicular to the flute direction, as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 543,804, filed February 11, 2004, published August 25, 2005 as PCT Publication WO 05 / 077487, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0011] The fluted and liner media sections can include additional material between them, but they can also be sections of a single sheet of media folded over so that the liner media material is properly adjacent to the fluted media portion of the media.

[0012] Fluted (typically corrugated) filter media sheets and liner media sheets or combined sheet segments are typically used to define a filter media with parallel flutes. In some instances, the fluted and liner sheets are separate and then secured together and then wound into a filter media strip to form a Z-shaped filter media structure. Such devices are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,235,195 and 6,179,890, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. In certain other devices, the filter structure is constructed by stacking some of the unwound segments or strips of fluted (typically corrugated) filter media secured to a liner media on top of each other. An example of this is shown in FIG. 11 of U.S. Patent No. 5,820,646, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0013] Here, strips of material including fluted sheets (sheets of filter media having ridges) secured to corrugated sheets are then assembled into a stack to form a media pack, which may be referred to as a "single facer strip," "single face strip," or "single facer" or "single face" filter media. These terms and variations thereof refer to each strip having a liner sheet applied to one side, or single face, of the fluted (typically corrugated) sheet.

[0014] Typically, the combination strip of fluted sheet and liner sheet (i.e., single facer) is wound to construct a roll-type filter media pack with the liner sheet on the outside. Several methods for winding are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 467,521, filed May 2, 2003, and PCT Application No. 04 / 07927, filed March 17, 2004, now published as WO 04 / 082795, each of which is incorporated herein by reference. The resulting roll-type device generally has a portion of the liner sheet as the outer surface of the filter media pack.

[0015] The term "corrugated," insofar as it is used herein to refer to structures within a filter medium, refers to a corrugated structure resulting from passing the filter medium between two corrugating rollers, i.e., through the nip or jaws of the two rollers, each having surface features suitable for corrugating the final filter medium. However, the term "corrugated" is not limited to flutes unless it is specified that they are from a method that involves passing the medium through the jaws between the corrugating rollers. The term "corrugated" also applies when the filter medium is corrugated and then further modified or altered by a folding method, for example, as described in PCT Publication WO 04 / 007054, published Jan. 22, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0016] Corrugated filter media is a specific form of fluted filter media. Fluted filter media is filter media that has individual flutes or ridges (formed, for example, by corrugating or folding) across it.

[0017] A serviceable filter element or cartridge configuration utilizing a Z-shaped filter medium may be referred to as a "linear flow configuration" or variations thereof. In general, this means that a serviceable filter element or cartridge generally has an inlet end (or face) and an opposite outlet end (or face), and the flow into and out of the filter cartridge is generally in the same linear direction. In this regard, the term "serviceable" refers to a filter medium containing filter cartridge that is periodically removed and replaced from a corresponding fluid (e.g., air) cleaning device. In some examples, each of the inlet end (or face) and outlet end (or face) is generally flat or planar, and both are parallel to each other. However, variations thereof, such as non-planar faces, are also possible.

[0018] The straight-flow configuration (particularly for rolled or stacked filter media packs) is in contrast to serviceable filter cartridges in which the flow generally changes direction substantially when entering and exiting the filter media, such as the cylindrical pleated filter cartridge of the type shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,778, which is incorporated herein by reference. That is, in the case of the filter of U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,778, the flow enters the cylindrical filter cartridge from the cylindrical side, then changes direction and exits from the open end of the filter media (a forward flow system). In a typical reverse flow system, the flow enters the serviceable cylindrical cartridge from the open end of the filter media, then changes direction and exits from the side of the cylindrical filter media. An example of such a reverse flow system is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,613,992, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0019] The term "Z-media configuration" and variations thereof, as used herein, without further ado, includes any or all of, but are not necessarily limited to, a web in which corrugated or otherwise fluted media (media having ridges) is secured to a (liner) media, whether as separate sheets or as part of a single web, with suitable sealing (closures) to define intake and exhaust flutes, and / or a media pack constructed or formed from such media into a three-dimensional network of intake and exhaust flutes, and / or a filter cartridge or structure containing such a media pack.

[0020] In Figure 1, an example of a filter media 1 that can be used in a Z-media structure is shown. The filter media 1 is formed from a fluted, in this case corrugated, sheet 3 and a liner sheet 4. Structures such as filter media 1 are referred to herein as single facers or single-faced strips.

[0021] At times, the corrugated fluted or ribbed sheet 3 of FIG. 1 is of a type generally characterized herein as having a regular curved wave pattern of flutes, ridges, or corrugations 7. The term "wave pattern" in this regard shall refer to a flute, ridge, or wave pattern of alternating valleys 7b and ridges 7a. In this regard, the term "regular" shall refer to alternating pairs of valleys and ridges (7b, 7a) that are generally of the same repeating corrugation (flute or ridge) shape and size. (And typically in a regular configuration, each valley 7b is a substantially inverted ridge for each ridge 7a.) The term "regular" shall therefore indicate that the corrugation (or flute) pattern includes valleys (inverted ridges) and ridges, and each pair (including adjacent valleys and ridges) is repeated without substantial variation in corrugation size and shape over at least 70% of the length of the flute. The term "substantially" in this context refers to variations resulting from changes in the process or geometry used to fabricate the corrugated or fluted sheet, as opposed to slight variations due to the flexibility of the filter media sheet 3. With respect to repeat pattern features, the number of ridges and grooves is not necessarily equal in any filter configuration. The ends of the filter media 1 may be, for example, between pairs of ridges and valleys, or partially along pairs of ridges and valleys. (For example, in FIG. 1, the partially shown filter media 1 has eight complete ridges 7a and seven complete valleys 7b.) Also, the opposite ends of the flutes (valley and ridge ends) may differ from each other. Such variations in ends are ignored in these definitions unless otherwise noted. That is, the differences in the ends of the flutes are intended to be covered by the above definitions.

[0022] With respect to the "curved" wave pattern characteristic of the corrugations, in certain instances the corrugated pattern is not the result of folds or creases imposed on the media, but rather is formed along a radiused curve at the peaks 7a of each ridge and the bottoms 7b of each valley. A typical radius for such Z-shaped media is at least 0.25 mm, and typically no greater than 3 mm.

[0023] With respect to corrugated sheet 3, another feature of the particular regular curved wave pattern shown in FIG. 1 is that along most of the length of flutes 7, at approximately the midpoint 30 between each valley and each adjacent ridge, there is a transition region where the curvature reverses. For example, when looking at back side or face 3a of FIG. 1, valley 7b is a recessed region and ridge a is a protruding region. Of course, when looking at front side or face 3b, valley 7b on side 3a forms a ridge and ridge 7a on face 3a forms a valley. (In some instances, region 30 can be a straight segment rather than a point, with the curvature reversed at the end of segment 30.)

[0024] A feature of the particular regular wave pattern fluted (in this case corrugated) sheet 3 shown in FIG. 1 is that the individual corrugations, ridges, or flutes are generally straight, although other options are possible. "Straight" in this context means that the ridges 7a and valleys (or inverted ridges) 7b do not substantially change in cross-sectional shape over at least 70% of their length, typically at least 80%. The term "straight" with respect to the corrugation pattern shown in FIG. 1 distinguishes it, in part, from the tapered flutes of the corrugated filter media shown in FIG. 1 of WO 97 / 40918, which are incorporated herein by reference, and in PCT application WO 03 / 47722, published June 12, 2003. For example, the tapered flutes of WO 97 / 40918 are curved wave patterns, not "regular" patterns, or straight flute patterns, as that term is used herein.

[0025] 1 of the present application, as previously discussed, filter media 1 has first and second mutually opposed edges 8 and 9. When filter media 1 is formed into a media pack, edge 9 generally forms an inlet end or face and edge 8 forms an outlet end or face for the media pack, although the opposite orientation is also possible.

[0026] In the illustrated example, the various flutes 7 extend all the way between the opposing edges 8, 9, although other options are possible. For example, they could extend to a position near or near the edges, but not all the way between them. They could also terminate and begin partway through the filter medium, such as in the filter medium of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0208705 A1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] 1, a sealant bead 10 may be provided near the edges 8 to seal the corrugated sheet 3 and the liner sheet 4 together. The bead 10 is sometimes referred to as a "single facer" or "single-face" bead, or variations thereof, because it is between the corrugated sheet 3 and the liner sheet 4, forming a single facer (single-face) filter media strip 1. The sealant bead 10 closes the individual flutes 11 near the edges 8 to the passage of air out of them (or into them in the opposite flow direction).

[0028] In the filter media shown in FIG. 1, a sealing bead 14 is provided near the edge 9. The sealing bead 14 generally closes the flutes 15 near the edge 9 against unfiltered fluid passing therethrough (or in the opposite flow direction, into) the flutes. The bead 14 will typically be applied when the filter media 1 is constructed into a media pack. If the media pack is fabricated from a stack of strips 1, the bead 14 forms a seal between the back surface 17 of the liner sheet 4 and the side surface 18 of the adjacent next corrugated sheet 3. If the filter media 1 is cut into strips and stacked rather than rolled up, the bead 14 is called a "stack bead." (If the bead 14 is used in a roll-type configuration formed from long strips of filter media 1, it is called a "rolled bead.")

[0029] For other types of through-flow media, the sealing material may be in other locations, or even no additional sealant or adhesive may be used. For example, in some instances the media may be folded to form an edge or margin seam, or the media may be sealed by another technique, such as ultrasonic irradiation. Furthermore, if a sealant material is used, it need not be near both ends.

[0030] 1, once the filter media 1 has been assembled into a media pack, for example by stacking or rolling, it can operate as follows: First, air in the direction of arrow 12 enters into the open flutes 11 near end 9. Since end 8 is closed by a bead 10, the air passes through the filter media 1 as shown by arrow 13. It can then exit the filter media or media pack by passing through the open ends 15a of the flutes 15 near end 8 of the media pack. Of course, operation can also be performed with air flow in the opposite direction.

[0031] For the particular configuration shown herein in FIG. 1, the parallel corrugations 7a, 7b are generally straight from edge 8 to edge 9 throughout the filter media. Straight flutes, ridges, or corrugations may be deformed or folded at selected locations, particularly at the ends. Modifications made to the ends of the flutes to effect closure are generally not considered in the foregoing definitions of "regular," "curved," and "wave pattern."

[0032] Z-filters are also known that do not utilize a corrugation shape with a straight regular curved wave pattern. For example, Yamada et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,562,825, shows a corrugation pattern that utilizes approximately semicircular inlet flutes adjacent narrow V-shaped (with curved sides) outlet flutes (see Figures 1 and 3 of 5,562,825). Matsumoto et al., U.S. Patent No. 5,049,326, shows circular or tubular flutes defined by one sheet with a half tube attached to another sheet with a half tube, resulting in flat areas between parallel straight flutes, see Figure 2 of Matsumoto's '326 patent. Ishii et al., U.S. Patent No. 4,925,561 (Figure 1) shows flutes folded to have a rectangular cross section, in which the flutes are tapered along their length. In WO 97 / 40918 (Figure 1) flutes or parallel corrugations are shown which have a curved wave pattern (with contiguous curved convex and concave valleys) but which are tapered (and therefore not straight) along their length. WO 97 / 40918 also shows flutes which have a curved wave pattern but with different ridges and valleys. Also flutes of different shapes containing various ridges are known.

[0033] Generally, the filter media is a relatively flexible material, typically a nonwoven fibrous material (cellulosic, synthetic, or both), often containing resins and sometimes treated with additional materials. It is therefore possible to form and incorporate into a variety of corrugation patterns without unacceptable damage to the filter media. It is also easy to roll or otherwise configure for use, again without unacceptable damage to the filter media. Of course, it must be of such a nature that it will maintain the required corrugation during use.

[0034] Typically, the corrugating process imposes an inelastic deformation on the media, which prevents the media from returning to its original shape. However, when tension is released, the flutes or corrugations tend to spring back, recovering only a portion of the previously acquired stretch and bending. To prevent such springback of the corrugated sheet, a liner media sheet is sometimes connected to the fluted media sheet. Such a connection is shown at 20.

[0035] Typically, the media also contains a resin. During the corrugation process, the media can be heated to a temperature above the glass transition temperature of the resin. The resin is then cooled, which helps it retain its shape and fluffiness.

[0036] The corrugated (fluted) sheet 3, the liner sheet 4, or both of the filter media may be provided with fine fiber material on one or both sides thereof, for example, according to U.S. Patent No. 6,673,136, incorporated herein by reference. In some instances, when such fine fiber material is used, it may be desirable to provide the fine fibers on the upstream side of the material and within the flutes. In this case, the air flow during filtration will typically enter the edge containing the stacked beads.

[0037] A problem with Z-filter structures relates to the closure of the ends of the individual flutes. Typically, a sealant or adhesive is provided to achieve this closure, although other options are possible. As is evident from the above disclosure, typical Z-filter media, especially those that use straight flutes rather than tapered flutes and a sealant to seal the flutes, require a large sealant surface area (and volume) at both the upstream and downstream ends. A high quality seal at these locations is critical to the proper operation of the resulting media structure. Large sealant volumes and areas can cause problems in this regard.

[0038] Turning now to FIG. 2, a Z-shaped filter media, i.e., Z-shaped filter media structure 40, is shown diagrammatically, utilizing a corrugated sheet 43 with a regular curved wave pattern and a flat sheet 44 that is not corrugated, i.e., a single facer strip. The distance D1 between points 50 and 51 defines the extent of the flat filter media 44 in the area 52 under a certain corrugated flute 53. The length D2 of the arched filter media for the corrugated flute 53 over the same distance D1 is naturally greater than D1, depending on the shape of the corrugated flute 53. For a typical regular shaped filter media required for fluted filter applications, the linear length D2 of the filter media 53 between points 50 and 51 is often at least 1.2 times D1. Typically, D2 will be 1.2 to 2.0 times D1, inclusive. One particularly conventional arrangement for air filters has a configuration in which D2 is about 1.25 to 1.35 times D1. Such media are used commercially, for example, in Donaldson Powercore™ Z-filter devices. Another potentially advantageous size is one in which D2 is about 1.4 to 1.6 times D1, where the ratio D2 / D1 is sometimes characterized as the flute / flat ratio for corrugated media, i.e., the aperture of the media.

[0039] In the corrugated board industry, various flutes are defined, for example, standard flute E, standard flute X, standard flute B, standard flute C, and standard flute A. Attached Figure 3, together with Table A below, provide definitions of these flutes.

[0040] Donaldson Company, Inc. (hereinafter DCI), the assignee of the present application, uses various standard flutes A and standard flutes B in various Z-filter assemblies. These flutes are also defined in Table A and FIG.

[0041] [Table A]

[0042] Of course, other standards and flute definitions from the corrugated box industry are known.

[0043] Generally, standard flute configurations from the corrugated box industry can be used to define the corrugation diameter or approximate corrugation shape for corrugated media. The above comparison of DCI A flutes and DCI B flutes with the corrugated box industry standard flutes A and standard flutes B shows some advantageous variations.

[0044] It should be noted that alternative flute definitions, such as those characterized in U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 215,718, filed June 26, 2008, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009 / 0127211, U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 012,785, filed February 4, 2008, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008 / 0282890, and / or U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 537,069, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0032365, may be used with the air cleaning device features characterized below. The entire disclosures of each of U.S. Patent Application Nos. 2009 / 0127211, 2008 / 0282890, and 2010 / 0032365 are incorporated herein by reference.

[0045] Another modified filter medium, including a fluted filter medium and a liner filter medium secured thereto, either in stacked or rolled form, can be used in devices according to the present disclosure, as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0208705 A1, published July 31, 2014, owned by Baldwin Filters, Inc., which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0046] B. Manufacturing of a filter media pack configuration including the filter media of Figures 1-3 See Figures 4-7 In Figure 4, an example of a manufacturing process for producing a filter media strip (single facer) corresponding to strip 1 of Figure 1 is shown. In general, a liner sheet 64 and a fluted (corrugated) sheet 66 having flutes 68 are joined together with an adhesive bead positioned at 70 between them to form a filter media web 69. The adhesive bead 70 forms the single facer bead 10 of Figure 1. An optional folding process is performed at station 71 to form a central fold 72 in the center of the web. The Z-media or Z-media strip 74 is cut or slit at 75 along the bead 70 to create two pieces or strips 76, 77 of Z-media 74 with a linear sealant (single facer bead) extending between the corrugations and the liner sheet on each edge. Of course, if the optional crimping process is used, the edge with the flush sealant (single facer bead) will also have a set of crimped flutes at this location.

[0047] Methods for carrying out the process characterized with respect to FIG. 4 are described in PCT Publication WO 04 / 007054, published Jan. 22, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] Still referring to FIG. 4, the z-media 74 must be formed before passing through the folding station 71 and finally being cut at 75. In the schematic shown in FIG. 4, this is done by passing a sheet of filter media 92 between a pair of corrugating rollers 94, 95. In the schematic shown in FIG. 4, the sheet of media 92 is unwound from a roll 96, wound around a tension roller 98, and then passes through a nip or jaw 102 between the corrugating rollers 94, 95. The corrugating rollers 94, 95 have teeth 104 that impart the generally desired corrugated shape to the flat sheet 92 after it passes through the nip 102. After passing through the nip 102, the sheet 92 is corrugated across the machine direction and referred to as a corrugated sheet at 66. The corrugated sheet 66 is then secured to a liner sheet 64. (The corrugating process may optionally include a step of heating the media.)

[0049] 4, the process also advances liner sheet 64 to a folding process station 71. Liner sheet 64 is stored on a roll 106 and then directed toward corrugated sheet 66 to form z-filter media 74. Corrugated sheet 66 and liner sheet 64 will typically be secured together by adhesive or other means (e.g., by sonic welding).

[0050] 4, there is shown an adhesive line 70 used as a sealant bead to secure the corrugated sheet 66 and the liner sheet 64 together. Alternatively, a sealant bead to form a liner bead can be applied as shown as 70a. Once the sealant is applied at 70a, it may be desirable to provide a gap in the corrugating roller 95, and possibly both corrugating rollers 94, 95, to receive the bead 70a.

[0051] Of course, the apparatus of FIG. 4 can be adapted to use the tack bead 20 of FIG. 1, if desired.

[0052] The type of corrugation provided to the corrugated media is selectable and depends on the corrugation or corrugation teeth of the corrugation rollers 94, 95. One useful corrugation pattern would be a regular curved wave pattern corrugation with straight flutes or ridges as defined above. A typical basic curved wave pattern used is one in which the distance D2 as defined above in the corrugation pattern is at least 1.2 times the distance D1 as defined above. In one exemplary application, typically D2=1.25-1.35×D1, although other options are possible. In some instances, the technique may also be applied to curved wave patterns that are not “regular”, including, for example, those that do not use straight flutes. It is also possible to modify the curved wave patterns shown.

[0053] As previously mentioned, the process shown in Figure 4 can be used to make the central fold 72. Figure 5 shows a cross section of one of the flutes 68 after folding and scoring.

[0054] Fold configuration 118 can be seen to form tucked flutes 120 having four creases 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d. Fold configuration 118 includes a flat first layer or portion 122, which is secured to liner sheet 64. A second layer or portion 124 is shown pressed against first layer or portion 122. Second layer or portion 124 is preferably formed by folding opposite outer edges 126, 127 of first layer or portion 122.

[0055] With further reference to Figure 5, two of the folds or creases 121a, 121b are generally referred to herein as "upper inward" folds or creases. The term "upper" in this regard means that the creases are at the top of the entire folded body 120 when the folded body 120 is viewed in the orientation of Figure 5. The term "inward" refers to the fold or crease lines of each fold 121a, 121b being oriented toward one another.

[0056] In Figure 5, folds 121c, 121d are generally referred to herein as "lower, outward" folds. The term "lower" in this regard refers to the fact that folds 121c, 121d are not positioned upwardly, as are folds 121a, 121b, in the orientation of Figure 5. The term "outward" is intended to refer to the fold lines of folds 121c, 121d facing away from one another.

[0057] The terms "upper" and "lower", insofar as used in this context, refer to fold 120 specifically as viewed in the orientation of Figure 5, i.e., they do not otherwise indicate the orientation that fold 120 may be oriented in the actual product in use.

[0058] Based on these characterizations and with reference to Figure 5, the present disclosure of a regular fold configuration 118 according to Figure 5 is one that includes at least two "upper inward creases" that are unique and do not result in significant encroachment of adjacent flutes by the fold.

[0059] A third layer or portion 128 can also be seen pressed against the second layer or portion 124. The third layer or portion 128 is formed by folding over opposite inner ends 130, 131 of the third layer 128.

[0060] Another way of looking at the folded configuration 118 is with respect to the shape of the alternating ridges and valleys of the corrugated sheet 66. A first layer or portion 122 is formed from the inverted ridges. A second layer or portion 124 corresponds to the two apexes (after the ridges have been inverted) that are folded toward and, in a preferred configuration, against the inverted ridges.

[0061] Techniques for providing the optional tucking described with respect to Figure 5 in a preferred manner are described in PCT Publication No. WO 04 / 007054, which is incorporated herein by reference. Methods for applying the roll-up bead and rolling up the filter media are described in PCT Application No. 04 / 07927, filed March 17, 2004, published as WO 04 / 082795, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0062] Alternative methods for folding the fluted end closed are also possible. Such methods can include, for example, folding other than at the center of each flute and performing rolling, pressing, or folding on the various flutes. Generally, folding involves folding or otherwise manipulating the filter media near the fluted end to compress it closed.

[0063] The techniques described herein are particularly well suited for use with media packs resulting from rolling up a single sheet or "single facer" strip that includes a combination of corrugated and liner sheets, however, they can also be in a laminated configuration.

[0064] Rolled filter media or media pack configurations can be provided with various perimeter definitions. In this regard, the term "perimeter definition" or variations thereof refers to a defined perimeter shape when viewed at either the inlet end or the outlet end of the filter media or media pack. A typical shape is a circle, as described in PCT Publication WO 04 / 007054. Other shapes that can be used are ovals, some examples of which are ellipses. In general, ellipses have opposing curved ends connected by a pair of opposing sides. In some ellipses, the opposing sides are also curved. In other ellipses, also called track shapes, the opposing sides are generally straight. Track shapes are described, for example, in PCT Publication WO 04 / 007054 and PCT Application No. 04 / 07927, published as WO 04 / 082795, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0065] Another way to describe the perimeter or outer perimeter shape is by defining the perimeter that would result from cutting the media pack in a direction perpendicular to the unwound end of the roll.

[0066] The opposing ends or faces of the filter media or media pack can be provided with a variety of different definitions. In many configurations, the ends or faces are generally flat (planar) and perpendicular to each other. In other configurations, one or both of the end faces include a tapered, e.g., stepped, portion that can be defined as either projecting axially outward from the axial end of the side wall of the media pack, or projecting axially inward from the end of the side wall of the media pack.

[0067] Flute seals (e.g., from single facer beads, rolled beads, or laminated beads) can be made from a variety of materials. In various references cited and incorporated herein, hot melt or polyurethane seals are described as being usable for a variety of applications.

[0068] In FIG. 6, a rolled media pack (or rolled media) 130 is generally depicted, which is constructed by rolling up a strip of single-faced media. The particular rolled media pack depicted is an elliptical media pack 130a, specifically a track-shaped media pack 131. The rear end of the media is on the outside of the media pack 130, and is designated 131x. For convenience and sealing, the end is typically terminated along a straight portion of the media pack 130. Typically, a hot melt seal bead or seal bead is positioned along this end to ensure sealing. In the media pack 130, the opposing end faces are designated 132, 133. One is the inlet end face, and the other is the outlet end face.

[0069] In Figure 7, the steps for forming a laminated z-filter media (or media pack) from strips of z-filter media are shown (schematically), with each strip being a fluted sheet secured to a liner sheet. With reference to Figure 6, a single facer strip 200 is shown added to a stack 201 of strips 202 similar to strip 200. Strip 200 can be cut from either of strips 76, 77 in Figure 4. At 205 in Figure 6, the application of a lamination bead 206 is shown between each of the layers corresponding to strips 200, 202 at the opposite end from the single facer bead or seal. (Lamination can also be done with each layer added underneath the stack instead of on top.)

[0070] 7, each strip 200, 202 has leading and trailing edges 207, 208 and opposing side edges 209a, 209b. The inlet and outlet flutes of the combined corrugated and liner sheets that comprise each strip 200, 202 generally extend between the leading and trailing edges 207, 208 and parallel to the side edges 209a, 209b.

[0071] 7, the formed filter media or media pack 201 has opposing inlet and outlet faces designated 210, 211. It is possible to select which face 210, 211 will be the inlet end and which will be the outlet end during filtration. In some instances, the stack bead 206 is positioned upstream, i.e., near the inlet face 211, and in other instances, vice versa. The inlet and outlet faces 210, 211 extend between opposing faces 220, 221.

[0072] The stacked filter media configuration or pack 201 shown as formed in Figure 7 is sometimes referred to as a "block-type" stacked filter media pack. The term "block-type" in this context indicates that the configuration is formed as a rectangular block with all faces at 90° with respect to all adjacent wall faces. For example, in some instances the stack can be formed by each strip 200 being slightly offset from alignment with adjacent strips to create a parallelogram or angled block shape with inlet and outlet faces parallel to one another but not perpendicular to the top and bottom faces.

[0073] In some instances, the filter media or media pack is described as having a parallelogram in any cross-section, meaning that any two opposing faces extend generally parallel to one another.

[0074] It is noted that the block-type stacking configuration corresponding to FIG. 7 is described in the prior art of U.S. Patent No. 5,820,646, which is incorporated herein by reference. It is also noted that stacking configurations are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,772,883, 5,792,247, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 457,255, filed March 25, 2003, and U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 731,564, filed December 8, 2003, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0187689. Each of these latter references is incorporated herein by reference. It is noted that the stacking configuration described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 731,504, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0130508, is a tilted stacking configuration.

[0075] It is also noted that in some instances, multiple laminates can be incorporated into a single filter media pack, and in some instances, the laminates can be produced with one or more intake and exhaust surfaces having recesses therein, such as shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,625,419, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0076] C. Selected filter media or media pack configurations including multiple spaced apart rolls of fluted filter media. Other types of filter media configurations or packs including flutes extending between opposite ends may be used with selected principles of the present disclosure. One example of such an alternative filter media configuration or pack is shown in Figures 8-8B. The media of Figures 8-8B is similar to that depicted and described in German Patent Specification No. 20 2008 017 059 U1 and may be found in configurations available from Mann & Hummel under the trademark "IQORON".

[0077] Referring to FIG. 8, a filter media or media pack is generally designated 250. The filter media or media pack 250 includes a first outer pleated (ribbed) filter media loop 251 and a second inner pleated (ribbed) filter media loop 252, with each pleat tip (or rib) extending between opposite inlet and outlet ends. The view of FIG. 8 is toward the (inlet and outlet) end 255 of the filter media pack. The end 255 of the view can be either the inlet (inlet) end or the outlet (exhaust) end, depending on the flow direction selected. For many configurations using the principles characterized, the filter media pack 250 will be configured in a filter cartridge such that the end 255 is the inlet and inlet end.

[0078] 8, the outer pleated (ribbed) media loops 251 are configured in an oval shape, although other options are possible. At 260, a pleat end closure means, such as a mold-in-place fabrication, is shown closing the ends of the pleats or ribs 251 at the media pack ends 255.

[0079] Pleats or ridges 252 (and associated pleat tips) are positioned so as to be surrounded by and spaced apart from loop 251, and thus pleated media loop 252 is also shown generally oval in shape. In this example, ends 252e of individual pleats or ridges 252p within loop 252 are sealed, and loop 252 surrounds center 252c that is closed by central strip 253 of material, typically by a molded-in-place process.

[0080] During filtration, when end 255 is the inlet intake end, air enters gap 265 between the two filter media loops 251, 252. As the air travels through media pack 250, it flows through either loop 251 or loop 252 and is filtered.

[0081] In the illustrated example, loop 251 is configured to angle inwardly toward loop 252 in the region away from end 255. Also shown is spacer 266 that supports centering ring 267 that surrounds the end of loop 252 for structural integrity.

[0082] In Figure 8A, end 256 of cartridge 250 opposite end 255 is visible. Here, it can be seen that the interior of loop 252 surrounds an open gas flow region 270. As air is directed through cartridge 250 toward end 256 in a general direction away from end 255, a portion of the air passing through loop 252 enters central region 270 and thence out through end 256. Of course, air entering loop 251 in Figure 8 during filtration will generally flow around (over) the perimeter 256p of end 256.

[0083] In Figure 8B, a schematic cross-sectional view of cartridge 250 is provided. Selected features identified and described are designated with like reference numerals.

[0084] As can be seen from the above description of Figures 8-8B, the cartridge 250 described is generally a cartridge having a filter media tip extending longitudinally between opposite inlet and exhaust ends 255,256.

[0085] 8-8B, the media pack 250 is depicted as having an elliptical, and specifically, track-shaped, perimeter. It is shown in this manner because the air filter cartridges in many of the examples described below are also of elliptical or track-shaped configurations. However, the principles may be embodied with a variety of alternative perimeter shapes.

[0086] D. Other variations of filter media Figures 9-12 9-12, cross-sectional views of yet another alternative variation of filter media of the type that can be used in selected applications of the principles characterized herein are provided. Particular examples are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 077,749, filed November 10, 2014, and owned by Donaldson Company, Inc., the assignee of the present disclosure. In general, each of the configurations in Figures 9-12 illustrates a type of filter media that has opposing inlet and outlet intake and exhaust ends (or faces) and can be stacked or rolled up in a configuration with straight through flow.

[0087] In FIG. 9, an exemplary filter media configuration 301 from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 077,749 (2658) is shown in which an embossed sheet 302 is secured to a non-embossed sheet 303 and then stacked or rolled up to form a filter media pack and sealed along opposing edges of the type already described with respect to FIG. 1 of the present application.

[0088] In FIG. 10, another exemplary filter media pack 310 from U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 077,749 is shown in which a first embossed sheet 311 is secured to a second embossed sheet 312 and then formed into a stacked or rolled filter media pack configuration and edge sealed generally in accordance with FIG. 1 of the present application.

[0089] In FIG. 11, a third exemplary filter media configuration 320 from U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 077,749 is shown in which a double-sided embossed sheet 321 is secured, laminated, or rolled up to another layer 322 of similar but inverted filter media to form a filter media pack 320 and the edges are sealed generally similar to FIG. 1.

[0090] Edge sealing can be performed at either the upstream or downstream end, or in some instances both. It may be desirable to avoid typical adhesives or sealants, especially if the filter media may encounter chemicals during filtering.

[0091] In Figure 11A a cross section is shown of a fluted sheet X having various embossments thereon for mating with a liner sheet Y. Again, these can be separate or sections of the same sheet of filter media.

[0092] In FIG. 11B, a schematic diagram of such an arrangement between fluted sheet X and liner sheet Y is also shown.

[0093] In Figure 11C another variation of this principle is shown between fluted sheet X and liner sheet Y. These are intended to make it easier to understand how the various approaches are possible.

[0094] In FIG. 12, yet another possible variation in fluted sheet X and liner sheet Y is shown.

[0095] In Figures 12A and 12B, an exemplary filter media configuration 6401 is shown in which a fluted sheet 6402 is secured to a liner sheet 6403. The liner sheet 6403 may be a flat sheet. The filter media configuration 6401 may then be stacked or rolled into a filter media pack, with seals along opposing edges of the type previously described with respect to Figure 1 of this application. In the illustrated embodiment, the flutes 6404 of the fluted sheet 6402 have undulating ridges that include a series of apexes 6405 and supports 6406. The apexes 6405 of adjacent flutes 6404 may be aligned as shown in Figures 12A and 12B, or may be offset. Additionally, the height and / or density of the apexes may increase, decrease, or remain constant along the length of the flutes 6404. The ratio of the flute height at the apex to the flute height at the support may be about 1.5, typically in the range of 1.1 to about 1.

[0096] It is noted that there is no requirement that the same filter media be used for the fluted sheet sections and the liner sheet sections. Different filter media may be desired in each to achieve different effects. For example, one may be a cellulose filter media and the other a filter media containing some other fiber than cellulose. These may be provided with different porosities or different structural characteristics to achieve the desired results.

[0097] A variety of materials can be used. For example, the fluted sheet section or the liner sheet section can include a cellulosic material, a synthetic material, or a mixture thereof. In some embodiments, one of the fluted sheet section and the liner sheet section includes a cellulosic material and the other of the fluted sheet section and the liner sheet section includes a synthetic material.

[0098] Synthetic materials can include polymeric fibers such as polyolefin, polyamide, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol (with different degrees of hydrolysis), and polyvinyl acetate fibers. Suitable synthetic fibers include, for example, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, and rayon fibers. Other suitable synthetic fibers include thermoplastic polymers, cellulosic and other fibers coated with thermoplastic polymers, and multicomponent fibers in which at least one of the components includes a thermoplastic polymer. Monocomponent and multicomponent fibers can be made from polyester, polyethylene, polypropylene, and other conventional thermoplastic fiber materials.

[0099] 9-12B are intended to generally illustrate that a variety of alternative filter media packs may be used in accordance with the principles of the present application. Attention is also directed to U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 077,749, which is incorporated herein by reference, for the general principles of construction and application of several alternative filter media types.

[0100] E. Another type of filter media Many of the techniques characterized herein are preferably applied when the filter media oriented to filter between the opposing inlet and outlet ends of the cartridge have flutes or pleat tips extending in a direction between the ends. However, other options are possible. The techniques characterized herein for the definition of the seal configuration are also applicable in filter cartridges having opposing inlet and outlet ends, where the filter media is positioned to filter the fluid flow between the ends, even when the filter media does not include flutes or pleat tips extending in a direction between the ends. The filter media can be, for example, a depth-type filter media, can be pleated in alternating directions, or can be a material without pleats.

[0101] In practice, however, the technology characterized herein is particularly advantageous for use with cartridges that have a relatively deep range between the inlet and outlet ends, usually at least 100 mm, typically at least 150 mm, often at least 200 mm, sometimes at least 250 mm, and in some instances 300 mm or more, and are configured to handle large load volumes during use. These types of systems are typically those in which the filter media is configured such that the pleat tips or flutes extend in a direction between the opposing inlet and outlet ends.

[0102] It is also noted that although the technology described herein is typically developed for advantageous applications and devices that include a filter media pack in a straight-flow configuration, the technology can also be applied to benefit other systems. For example, the technology can be applied when a cartridge includes a filter media surrounding a central interior, where the cartridge has an open end. Such devices can involve "forward flow," where the air to be filtered passes through the filter media into the central open interior and exits through the open end, or use reverse flow, where the air to be filtered enters the open end and then turns around and passes through the filter media. A variety of such devices are possible, including pleated filter media and other types of filter media. Configurations that can be used may include cylindrical and conical shapes, among others.

[0103] II. Some general issues in the design and servicing of air cleaning equipment A. Overall Equipment System Using Air Cleaning Device Assembly, FIG. 13 In Fig. 13, a schematic diagram of an engine equipment arrangement 360 is shown. The equipment system 360 includes, in this example, a vehicle or other equipment 361 having an internal combustion engine arrangement 362 with a combustion air inlet 363. The equipment arrangement 360 includes an air cleaner system 365 having therein a filter arrangement 366, which typically includes a serviceable (i.e., removable and replaceable) filter cartridge. Intake air to the system is shown at 367 as passing into the air cleaner assembly 365, after which the unfiltered air is filtered through the filter media of the filter cartridge arrangement 366. At 368, the filtered air is shown passing to the air inlet 363 of the equipment. At 370, an optional equipment such as a turbo system is shown.

[0104] Of course, alternative equipment systems may be represented by devices similar to those of Figure 13. The equipment systems may be, for example, industrial air filters, air cleaning device configurations used in conjunction with turbines, etc. Use in conjunction with internal combustion engines is typical, but not specifically required for many of the principles characterized herein.

[0105] B. Ensuring that cartridges that can be installed in an air purifier are suitable for that air purifier device Typically, air cleaning devices, such as those used for the intake of a filter device, include a housing in which at least one main filter cartridge is installed, and sometimes a safety device. The main filter cartridge is typically configured to collect particulate contaminants that flow into the intake air stream for the device. This prevents the device from being damaged. Such filter cartridges are typically configured to be removed and replaced, i.e., they are service parts. At various predetermined service intervals and / or when increasing constraints (from dust load) become an issue, the cartridges are removed from the air cleaning device and serviced or replaced.

[0106] In many cases, cartridges are designed specifically to match the operational requirements of the equipment manufacturer. It is important to ensure that the cartridge being replaced in the field is the correct one for the equipment involved and therefore fits and seals properly.

[0107] Typically, the primary interface between the filter cartridge and the air cleaning device is along the housing seal. This interface is sometimes used to help ensure that the cartridge that fits is also correct for the system of interest. An example is given by U.S. Pat. No. 8,864,866, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In this specific reference, the variation of the sealing surface through protrusions and / or recesses is described in general terms. These general principles apply here, with modifications and variations for specific applications.

[0108] The principles described herein are characterized as being implemented in devices in which the housing seals, particularly those located on filter cartridges, are "radial" or "radially directed" seals. By this we mean seals that are used to apply a compressive sealing force generally directed toward the periphery of the housing for sealing during use, or alternatively, that utilize a sealing force directed toward the portion of the housing that is surrounded by the seal. In filter cartridges of the type characterized herein, radial seals are generally seals that surround a flow passage, with the main compression direction (when installed) being toward the flow passage or the opposite. Outwardly, or radially outwardly directed seals are those in which the (cartridge's) sealing device has a sealing surface that sealingly engages with the surrounding structure during use. Radially inwardly directed seals are those in which the cartridge's sealing surface surrounds the structure to which it is sealed during use.

[0109] C. Observations regarding issues involving side loading and / or cartridge installation into systems where the radial seal of the housing of interest is located at the innermost position within the housing. In many cases, the sealing surface that will engage with the seal on the cartridge is located deepest within the housing and is not visible to the servicer. Additionally, the size of the housing and the shielding effect of the cartridge can make it difficult, if not impossible, to manually access the sealing surface during installation of the cartridge. A problem with using cartridges that have seals that are not simply simple or uniform geometric shapes, such as circular or elliptical, is that depending on the design, it can be difficult to properly orient the cartridge during installation to ensure proper sealing. Any of the techniques characterized herein are useful for facilitating this in application, as will be seen from the more detailed description below.

[0110] The problem may be exacerbated if the cartridge is configured for side loading. By side loading, we mean the part of the housing where the cartridge is attached during use. In particular, in some instances, linear flow cartridges are loaded from the side of the housing and then pushed laterally to position the seal. It may be difficult to properly manipulate and leverage the cartridge to obtain a good seal. Examples of advantageous side loading configurations with features beneficial for facilitating loading are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,396,375, 7,655,074, 7,905,936, 7,713,321, and 7,972,404, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0111] The configurations of the references cited in the previous paragraph generally use elliptical seals, typically racetrack elliptical (straight sides separated by semicircular ends in the seal face). When one wishes to introduce variation into the seal face, depending on how it is implemented, it can sometimes be difficult to provide a good and convenient fit for side loading. Several principles described herein are featured that are particularly beneficial in such situations to facilitate loading.

[0112] III. First Exemplary Assembly, FIGS. 14-22 A. General Features of the Assembly, Figures 14-15A Selected principles according to the present disclosure can be understood with reference to Figures 14-22. The illustrated example is an air cleaner assembly having a main filter cartridge removably mounted therein, as can be seen below. Furthermore, the assembly is configured as "end loaded," meaning that the housing access cover is at the end opposite the cartridge airflow outlet. The principles can also be applied in other housing configurations.

[0113] 14, reference numeral 400 generally indicates an air cleaning device assembly according to selected principles of the present disclosure. Air cleaning device assembly 400 includes a housing 401. Housing 401 generally includes a body 403 and an access cover 404 that is secured in place, in this case by a latch 405. In the illustrated example, access cover 404 is fully removable from housing body 403, although the principles are applicable to other configurations.

[0114] The housing 401 generally defines an air flow inlet arrangement 407 and an air flow outlet arrangement 408. Air to be filtered enters the housing 401 at the inlet 407, passes through a filter arrangement positioned therein, and the filtered air exits through the outlet arrangement 408. In the illustrated example, during use, the inlet flow through the inlet arrangement 407 is generally perpendicular to the air flow through a cartridge mounted within the housing, and the air flow through the outlet arrangement 408 is generally aligned with the direction of air flow through the mounted filter cartridge, although the principles may be implemented in other configurations.

[0115] No particular orientation within the device for use is intended in Fig. 14. Assembly 400 may be oriented for use with one of its sides facing up, down, or sideways, e.g., the side facing the viewer in Fig. 14. The principles described herein are applicable to a variety of such devices, and no particular orientation is required. Indeed, this may be an advantage of devices according to the present disclosure.

[0116] In Figure 14A, a selected perspective view of assembly 400 is shown. Features similar to those already identified are indicated with similar reference numerals. The illustrated housing 401 optionally includes various mounting pads 409 by which equipment may be secured.

[0117] In Figure 15, an exploded elevational view of the air cleaning device assembly 400 is shown. Here, the access covers 404 are shown removed from the body 403 to access the interior features. An optional weather gasket 411 is shown. This can be fixed to one or the other of the access covers 404 within the body 403 as desired, or it can be a separate part. The weather gasket 411 provides a weather seal between the access covers 404 and the body 403 when installed to help prevent, for example, migration of water (e.g., rainwater) from entering the interior of the housing 401.

[0118] 15, both the inlet device 407 and the outlet device 405 are shown depicted on the body 403, however alternatives are possible. Also, as previously mentioned, the inlet and outlet devices 407 / 408 may be in alternative locations or orientations.

[0119] 15, the air cleaning device assembly 400 includes an internally received, removable and replaceable (i.e., serviceable) main filter cartridge 415. The assembly 400 is also depicted as having an optional safety filter cartridge 416. In this exemplary assembly, the safety filter cartridge 416 is positioned downstream of the main filter cartridge 415 during use.

[0120] The main filter cartridge 415 is responsible for trapping the majority of particulate matter separated from the airflow stream during use. The safety filter cartridge 416 serves a variety of functions. It can be left in place when the main filter cartridge 415 is removed and serviced, thus protecting the outlet for clean air from dust falling onto it from inside the housing and grates. The filter cartridge safety 416 can also trap some dust in the event of failure of the filter media or seals of the main filter cartridge 415. These are well-known applications of safety filter cartridges. The particular safety filter cartridge 416 shown is of a generally known type, see for example U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,936, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0121] In FIG. 15A, an exploded perspective view of the assembly 400 is shown, allowing a better view of the general components described above. Note the safety filter cartridge 416, particularly the mounting projections 417 and the handle or handle device 418. Such features are described, for example, in the aforementioned U.S. Patent No. 7,905,936, which is incorporated herein by reference. During installation of the safety filter cartridge 416, a servicer typically presses the safety filter cartridge 416 into the housing body 403, engaging the projections 417 with appropriately positioned receptacles in the body 403. In this manner, the user can leverage the safety filter cartridge 416 into position using the handle 418. The particular safety filter cartridge 416 shown employs a peripheral seal 419 that engages (as a radial seal) with the peripheral portion of the housing when the safety device 416 is properly installed. Thus, the safety device 416 employs an outward radial seal in the terms previously characterized herein.

[0122] 15 and 15A, it can be seen that the illustrated assembly 400 is one in which the main filter cartridge 415 is installed via end loading, in accordance with the characteristics of such terminology above. In this example, the main cartridge 415 is pressed into the housing body 403 during installation and is directed towards the exhaust end or outlet arrangement 408. With reference to Figures 15 and 15A, it can be seen that the main filter cartridge 415 includes a sealing arrangement 420 at the end of the cartridge 415 that is positioned furthest into the housing body 403 during installation. In the illustrated example, this is the downstream exhaust end of the cartridge 415.

[0123] B. General Features of Main Filter Cartridge 415, Figs. 16-19 Selected features of main filter cartridge 415 can be understood by examining Figures 16-19.

[0124] Referring first to FIG. 16, the main filter cartridge 415 generally includes a media pack configured for straight through flow, with opposing inlet and outlet ends 424, 425. As used herein, the term "inlet and outlet end" when used with respect to the media pack 427 or the filter cartridge 415 means the end surface or area into or out of which air flows during use. Typically, the inlet and outlet ends are flat, although alternatives are possible. Generally, one of the ends will be the inlet end and the opposite end will be the outlet end. For the particular filter cartridge 415 shown, the inlet and outlet end 424 is the inlet end and the inlet and outlet end 425 is the outlet end. The media pack 427 generally includes air filter media, which is closed to prevent the passage of intake air entering the cartridge at the inlet end 424 from exiting the outlet end 425 without passing through the media for filtration.

[0125] The filter cartridge 415 generally includes a media pack 427. The media pack contains a media appropriate for the filtering operation to be performed, and typically has air flowing through both ends. The media characterized above with respect to Figures 1-12B can be used. The particular exemplary media pack 429 shown is generally elliptical in shape, with opposing curved ends 427a, 427b typically approximately semicircular in shape, and extending therebetween relatively straight (opposite) first and second side portions 427c, 427d. Such a media pack can be fabricated from a rolled strip of corrugated media secured to a liner media according to the previous description, although alternatives are possible.

[0126] The particular media pack 427 shown is typically constructed without a central core, for example, according to the teachings of U.S. Patent No. 8,226,786, although alternatives are possible in which a central core is provided. The media pack 427 may include an outer sheath, shield, or protective coating surrounding it. However, in many applications, the outer surface 427s of the media pack 427 along the majority of the exposed length of the media pack will include a liner media that has no outer protective coating, other than perhaps a label.

[0127] In many examples, including those of Figures 16-19, a main filter cartridge according to the present disclosure includes one or more optional "preforms" thereon. The term "preform" and variations thereof in this regard refer to a structural part that is typically prefabricated, for example molded from plastic, and then secured to the filter media of the filter cartridge using an adhesive or sealant material or other material that hardens or solidifies. Preforms are generally well known, see, for example, U.S. Patent Nos. 7,905,936, 7,713,321, and 7,972,404.

[0128] The particular cartridge 415 of Figures 16-19 includes two such optional preforms, generally designated 430, 431. The preform 430 is positioned near the end 424. It includes an attachment handle arrangement 434 that in this example axially overlaps the inlet and exhaust end 424, and a surround arrangement 435 that surrounds the media pack 427. The preform 430 can be positioned in place and secured with an adhesive or sealing material as desired. However, because the preform 430 is positioned upstream of the housing seal arrangement 420, a seal between the preform 430 and the media 427 is not critical. Referring to Figure 16, the preform 430 also includes an optional end grid arrangement 435 that is axially aligned with the end 424 of the media. The end grid 435 can provide strength, structure, and integrity to both the preform 430 and the media of the media pack 427.

[0129] 17, a preform 431 is positioned near the inlet / outlet end 425. The preform 431 is a seal support preform and includes an optional grid 440 thereon to stabilize the end 425 of the filter media against distortion. As a seal support preform 431, the preform 431 includes a seal support portion 441 thereon positioned to support a sealing pressure of the seal arrangement 420 against a seal material 445 during use, as described below.

[0130] A variety of sealing arrangements 420 can be used. The particular arrangement shown uses a sealing arrangement in which the sealing material is molded in place and fixed in place on the preform 431, which also forms the sealing surface 445a of the sealing material 445. Techniques such as those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,396,376 and 8,409,316 can be used, although alternatives are possible.

[0131] Attention is now directed to Figure 18, an exploded perspective view of filter cartridge 415. The various features previously discussed are readily seen. With respect to preform 431, attention is directed to seal support flange 447, which, as will be appreciated, projects toward an appropriate portion of seal arrangement 420 for supporting seal material 445 during sealing.

[0132] An alternative exploded perspective view is shown in FIG. 19, looking generally toward the intake and exhaust end 424 of the cartridge 415.

[0133] 16-19, it will be seen that the particular sealing device 420 is depicted with the sealing surface 445a configured to form an outward radial seal, i.e., it is positioned within the cartridge 415 in a position to form a seal with a surrounding portion (housing structure) of the air cleaning device (typically an internal housing portion) during installation. Alternatively, the sealing surface 445a can be configured to surround a portion (typically an internal housing portion) of the air cleaning device during installation, thus forming a radially inward seal.

[0134] Additionally, the illustrated radial seal is a "supported seal" in that the support flange 447 of the preform 431 is positioned to support the seal material 445 during installation, whereby the material 445 is at least partially compressed between the support flange 431 and the housing surface during use. Seal support parts that operate in this general manner are well known.

[0135] The particular seal surface 445 of the illustrated example device 415 employs an optionally modified elliptical shape. Notably, it is not a simple ellipse as in the elliptical racetrack seal of devices such as U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,936, in which straight or opposing arcuate seal portions are positioned between both curved (e.g., semicircular) ends. Rather, it utilizes a particular arrangement of modifications positioned on its surface to advantage. Such modifications may be of the type generally described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,864,866, which is incorporated herein by reference. However, the particular selected configuration and modifications may also advantageously include the features discussed herein.

[0136] Generally, with reference to Figure 17, the advantageous non-straight portions of the seal face are shown generally at 448 to include alternating protrusions 448p and recesses 448r, as will be further described below. With reference to Figures 18 and 19, it is noted that the support flange 447 includes similar protrusion / recess portions at 449 provided to support the seal arrangement within the associated seal portion.

[0137] C. Safety filter, Fig. 20 In Fig. 20, an optional safety filter 416 is shown. The safety filter 416 includes a preform 450 having a filter medium, typically pleated filter medium 451, positioned therein. The preform 450 has a peripheral rim 452 that includes the protrusions 417 discussed above. A pleat spacer is shown at 453 within the preform. A handle arrangement 418 is shown for handling the safety arrangement. A seal member 419 is positioned over the preform 450 to surround the filter medium 451, and is typically secured in place by an adhesive. Alternatives are possible.

[0138] D. Exemplary Main Filter Cartridge Seal Engagement with Housing, FIGS. As previously mentioned, the sealing configuration of the main filter cartridge 415 is selected to have a configuration that can be unique to the system concerned, to prevent installation of alternative configurations, if desired, and to be of a type that can be safely and reliably established and released. The particular device shown has a generally elliptical periphery with two oppositely curved (semicircular) ends that engage with non-straight, opposing portions of the sealing device. In this specification, the particular configuration shown for the non-straight portion may sometimes be referred to as a "corrugated portion," which will be described in more detail below. This is generally a portion that has a convex / concave profile, as described below. The engagement of such devices for sealing can be understood by reference to Figures 21, 21A, and 22.

[0139] Figure 21 shows a top view of housing 401 looking towards inlet 407. In this view, no cartridge is in the housing. It will be appreciated that Figure 21 provides an orientation for Figure 21A.

[0140] FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 21A-21A of FIG. 21. It is noted that there is a housing seal surface (or structure) 460 positioned within the housing, which in this example surrounds the cartridge seal arrangement 420 when installed, against which the seal arrangement 420 and therefore the cartridge 415 are sealed when installed. The illustrated seal surface 460 and arrangement uses an outwardly radial seal and surrounds the seal arrangement 420 during use, and is the seal surface against which the seal surface 445a presses during use. The illustrated seal surface 460 includes a smooth (non-corrugated) portion 461 and a corrugated or convex / concave portion 462. The corrugated or convex / concave portion 462 is a portion of the surface 460 that includes an alternating convex / concave configuration for sealingly engaging with one or more of its mating corrugated surfaces 448 of FIG. 18 of the cartridge 415. 21A shows approximately half of the entire surface 460, with the remaining half of surface 460 typically being a mirror image thereof. As a result, it can be seen that there are two wavy (or convex / concave) portions 462, in this example each including three inwardly directed convexities 465 and two outwardly projecting portions 466 therebetween. These portions can be characterized as "inwardly convex" for portion 465 and "inwardly concave" for portion 466, as desired. Alternatives are possible.

[0141] 21 and 21A, it can be seen that a housing sealing surface 460 of the type generally usable in devices incorporating the principles described herein (and used with exemplary cartridge 415 in particular) can be a feature molded as part of the molded housing, if desired.

[0142] In FIG. 22, a schematic diagram of a housing 401 with a cartridge 405 positioned therein is provided.

[0143] E. Some selected variants 14-22 are intended to illustrate exemplary devices employing selected principles according to the present disclosure. Features can be implemented in a variety of variations with respect to housing features, cartridge features, and indeed with respect to specific seal configurations. With respect to seal configurations, general principles are provided herein after other embodiments and examples are presented.

[0144] It should be understood that the principles can be applied with non-straight "alternating" convex / concave versions of the sealing face that differ from the specific example shown in cartridge 415 of Figures 16-19. For example, the number of alternating convex and concave portions in any one of the regions can be varied. Also, the total number of regions that contain such alternating convex / concave regions can be varied, as can their location within the sealing face. Also, variations in shape, size, location, and spacing are possible. Some of the principles in this regard are further described below.

[0145] 14-22, it is noted that the illustrated cartridge (FIG. 16) includes an installation handle 434 as previously described. With reference to the various figures, it can be seen that the handle 434 is positioned to overlap the intake end of the media pack and can be used to push the cartridge into place or pull the cartridge out of the sealing portion during servicing. This type of handle 434 is sometimes referred to as an "installation handle" which is characterized by its axial orientation for installation and removal.

[0146] IV. Other Embodiments and Variations 23-34, a first exemplary variation of cartridge 415 is shown. The particular cartridge of the figures, as well as cartridge components and their features, differ from cartridge 415 in two main respects: the absence of a preform at the end of the cartridge opposite the sealing arrangement, and a modification of the preform arrangement at the sealing end of the cartridge. However, a preform such as preform 430 of FIG. 19 can be used with the apparatus according to FIGS. 23-34, if desired.

[0147] 23, cartridge 480 generally includes a media pack 481 and a sealing device 482. Media pack 481 may be constructed generally in accordance with the principles discussed above, and may indeed generally conform to media pack 427 of FIGS.

[0148] Cartridge 480 includes opposed inlet and outlet ends 484, 485. Sealing device 482 is positioned at inlet and outlet end 485. Although alternatives are possible, it is expected that in a typical application, 484 will be the inlet end and 485 will be the outlet end for media pack 481.

[0149] It is noted that there is no preform or handle device at end 484, but there is a handle device 488 at end 485, the same end depicted as sealing device 482. Handle device 488 may be constructed as part of the same preform used in sealing device 482, as described below, although alternatives are possible.

[0150] The absence of a handle device near the intake and exhaust end 484 is not intended to indicate that the cartridge 480 cannot be pushed in (and removed) by holding that end, but rather is intended to indicate that in some instances, the cartridge 480 and assembly can be configured such that the cartridge can be manipulated to be held in and out of the sealing direction, eliminating the need for a handle device on the end opposite the housing seal device.

[0151] It is noted that, with reference to Fig. 23, sealing arrangement 482 generally includes a molded-in-place seal member 489. Seal member 489 includes a sealing surface 489s. The illustrated sealing surface 489s is an outwardly facing surface configured to form an outward radial seal in accordance with the principles described above. Alternatives are possible.

[0152] It is noted that sealing surface 489s has a shape similar in general characteristics to surface 448s of FIGS.

[0153] The features used in the apparatus of FIG. 23 may also be applied to the apparatus of FIG. 16, and the features used in the apparatus of FIG. 16 may be used in accordance with the features of FIG.

[0154] In Figure 24, a top view of cartridge 480 is shown, looking towards face 485 and sealing device 482. Cross-sectional views are generally shown in Figures 25 and 26. In Figure 27, an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of Figure 25 is shown.

[0155] Upon review of these figures, it can be seen that the illustrated seal apparatus 482 includes a molded-in-place seal portion 489 and a seal support preform 490. The illustrated preform 490 includes a seal support flange 491 thereon.

[0156] Referring to FIG. 27, a cross-sectional view through the sealing face 490s is shown. The sealing face 490s is generally seen to have a tapered shape from a maximum diameter portion 489x to an insertion tip 490t. The particular taper shown is a stepped configuration. However, a linearly chamfered configuration is also possible. This facilitates installation and is well known for various types of radial seals, see for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,396,376 and 8,409,316.

[0157] In Figures 28-29C, the molded seal portion 489 is shown separate from the cartridge and preform. Figure 28 is a plan view taken in the same orientation as Figure 24. Figure 29 is a perspective view, and Figures 29A, 29B, and 29C are cross-sectional views.

[0158] In Figures 30-34, a seal support preform 490 is shown. In Figure 30, a perspective view looking towards the handle 488 is shown. In Figure 31, a top view looking towards the handle 488 is shown. In Figures 32, 33, and 34, cross-sectional views are shown.

[0159] Some example dimensions are provided for the devices of Figures 23-34. These are intended to illustrate possible devices that may be used using the principles of the present disclosure. The dimensions may vary. Example dimensions are: AX=16mm radius, AY=19mm radius, AZ=99mm radius; in Figure 25, BA=200mm, BB=182mm, BC=198mm, BD=205mm; in Figure 26, BE=349mm, BF=344mm, BG=200mm, BH=231mm, BI=342mm; in Figure 27, BJ=9mm, BK=3mm; in Figure 28, AA=349mm, AB=16mm radius, AC=19mm radius, AD=44.5mm, A=200mm radius, BB=182mm, BC=198mm, BD=205mm; E=44.5mm, AF=radius 34.4mm, AG=radius 5mm, AH=205mm, in Figure 29A, AN=313.9mm, AO=224.6mm, AP=336mm, AQ=342mm, in Figure 29B, AI=41.9mm, AJ=171.4mm, AK=145.2mm, AL=182mm, AM=198mm, in Figure 29C, AR=31.1mm, AS=3mm, AT=1.5mm, AU=2mm, AV=4.1mm, AW=14.3mm.

[0160] In Figure 31, BL = 203.4 mm, BM = radius 33 mm, BN = 44.5 mm, BO = 44.5 mm, BP = radius 5 mm, BQ = 60°, BR = radius 85.4 mm, BS = 193.9 mm, BT = 336.9 mm; in Figure 32, BU = 170 mm, BV = 17 mm; in Figure 33, BW = 314 mm; in Figure 34, BX = 27 mm, BY = 10 mm, BZ = 0.3 mm, CA = 127.9°, CB = 1°, CC = 2.4 mm.

[0161] Typically, the maximum thickness (between the seal face and the support) of a molded-in-place seal part that aligns with the seal support part is at least 10 mm and usually does not exceed 20 mm (often 12-16 mm), although alternatives are possible.

[0162] Some similar dimensions may be used, if desired, for similar features and the previously described embodiment of Figures 16-19.

[0163] Locating the handle near the sealing end provides several advantages. For example, when such a cartridge is handled, a servicer typically handles the cartridge from the handle end and sets it up with the cartridge facing up. This helps keep the sealing material 489 from contacting working surfaces and the like during handling.

[0164] It may also be desirable to have some form of handle arrangement, but if so constructed, the cartridge cannot be stood on the apparatus at the opposite inlet and outlet end 488 in FIG. 23. If desired, a handle arrangement can be added. However, if the cartridge is of a size and application such that the media pack can be handled by holding it near the end without the preform, a handle arrangement may not be desirable.

[0165] V. Exemplary Devices in Which the Corrugated Seal Portion is Located Near the End of a Modified Ellipse, Figs. 35-56 A. Overview In the exemplary devices of Figures 16-19 and 23-34, the sealing surface was configured with two semicircular curved ends with opposing portions extending therebetween, generally defining an ellipse, modified to include one or more corrugations or convex / concave portions in what would otherwise be straight portions of the ellipse. The principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in alternative configurations that include at least one corrugation or convex / concave portion in the otherwise elliptical end curve instead of, or in addition to, the features discussed above. Several examples are described in this section and in the figures above.

[0166] B. First example, Figs. 35-38 35-38, therefore, a first exemplary filter cartridge and features are shown generally having corrugated (or convex / concave) portions at the arcuate "edges" of a sealing device in accordance with the principles described herein. In FIG. 35, a schematic perspective view of such a cartridge is shown at 500. Cartridge 500 includes a media pack 501 (shown in dashed lines) having opposing inlet and outlet ends 502, 503. It is noted that although media pack 501 is shown in dashed lines, it may be similar to the media pack configurations previously described herein and use media in accordance with the preceding description.

[0167] In the particular example shown, no preform is shown at the intake and exhaust end 502. However, it can be located in this position if desired.

[0168] At end 503, sealing arrangement 505 is shown. Sealing arrangement 505 includes a seal member 506 configured with a sealing surface 506s. The particular seal member 506 shown is constructed using a molded-in-place material as described above, with surface 506s configured as an outward radial seal, i.e., positioned to seal against a peripheral portion of the housing during use, although alternatives are possible.

[0169] In FIG. 36, a plan view of the cartridge 500 is shown looking towards the sealing device 505. The sealing ring 506 is shown, including the sealing surface 506s, which shows its perimeter shape. With reference to FIG. 36, it can be seen that the surface 506s has a first end portion 508, opposing side portions 509, 510, and an end portion 510x opposite portion 508. The perimeter shape is generally elliptical, with end 510 being modified as described below. Thus, in the illustrated example, end 508 is arcuate in perimeter shape (generally semicircular in this example) and the opposing portions 509, 510 are generally straight and parallel to each other. Alternatives are possible.

[0170] 36, it can be seen that edge 510x extends over an arc of 180° but has a wavy or convex / concave shape, with a surface area configured to include alternating concave portions 511 and convex portions 512. In the illustrated example, there are three concave portions 511 and two convex portions 512, although alternatives are possible.

[0171] In Figure 37, a cross-sectional view of the molded-in-place seal material 505 of the seal device 505 is shown taken along line 37-37 of Figure 36. Area 513 shows where the molded-in-place portion receives the support projection on the preform. Area 514 shows the overmolded portion that secures the seal, seal material (and preform) to the media pack.

[0172] FIG. 38 shows a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 38-38 of FIG.

[0173] In the examples of Figures 35-38, the available dimensions are shown as follows: in Figure 37, CD = 41.9mm, CE = 10.5mm, CF = 7.5mm, CG = 118.4mm, CH = 113.6mm, CI = 92.5mmCJ = 4.5m, CK = 113mm, CL = 122mm, CJ = 118.4mm, CM = 16.7mm, CN = 20.1mm. In Figure 38, CO = 21.2°, CP = 321.7mm, CQ = 317.6mm, CR = 295.7mm, CS = 32.4°, CT = 322.9mm, CU = 332mm, CW = 24.2°, CV = 4.5°.

[0174] Of course, alternatives are possible using the principles of this disclosure, and some common variations that are available are described later in this specification.

[0175] C. Second variant, Figs. 39-45 The principles characterized in connection with the embodiment of Figures 35-38 can be applied to an apparatus that includes a seal support preform device thereon and a handle at the same end of the cartridge as the seal device. An example is provided in Figures 39-46 as follows.

[0176] In Figure 39, an exemplary cartridge 550 is shown that includes a filter media pack 551 and a sealing arrangement 552. These may be generally as in Figures 35-38, except that there is a handle arrangement 553 that overlaps an end 555 of the filter media 551.

[0177] Similar to the devices of Figures 35-38, sealing device 551 includes a molded-in-place region 555 of material including region 556 having sealing surface 556s.

[0178] The filter media pack 550 may generally have opposed intake and exhaust ends 558, 559 as previously described.

[0179] In Fig. 40, a plan view looking towards the inlet and outlet end 559 is shown. In Fig. 41, a cross-sectional view is shown along line 41-41 in Fig. 40. In Fig. 42, a cross-sectional view is shown along line 42-42 in Fig. 40. In these views, the preform 560 is visible along with the seal support portion 561.

[0180] In Figure 43, preform 560 is shown in perspective view. In Figure 44, a plan view looking towards the end opposite flange 561 is shown. In Figure 45, an opposite plan view looking towards flange 461 is shown. In Figure 46, a cross-section view taken along line 46-46 in Figure 45 is shown.

[0181] In the example drawings of Figures 43 to 46, some dimensions are indicated. These are given as examples and may correspond to the following: In Figure 40, CX = radius 23.6mm, CY = radius 26.4mm, CZ = 30°, CRC = radius 50mm, in Figure 41, DA = 332mm, DB = 321.7mm, DC = 250mm, DD = 281.1mm, DE = 327mm, in Figure 42, DH = 118.4mm, DF = 2.4mm, DG = 122mm, DI = 117mm, in Figure 44, DJ = 2.4mm DK = 105mm, DL = 210mm, in Figure 45, DO = 112.9mm, DP = 30°, DQ = 30°, DR = radius 11.1mm, DS = radius 38.9mm, DT = 322.9mm, in Figure 46, DM = 28.3mm, DU = 34.8mm.

[0182] Of course, alternatives are possible using the principles of the described technology.

[0183] D. Exemplary Air Cleaning Device Assembly, FIGS. 47-56 47-56, an exemplary air cleaner assembly is shown that can be used with a main filter cartridge having similar sealing features as those previously described in the embodiments of FIGS. 35-38 and / or 39-45.

[0184] 47, an air cleaning device assembly according to this portion of the disclosure is generally indicated at 600. Air cleaning device assembly 600 includes a housing 601, which includes a housing body 602 and a servicing access cover 603.

[0185] In the illustrated example of air cleaning device assembly 600, as will be understood from the following description, a variation from the previously described housing 401 (FIG. 14) is shown in which the access cover 603 is not detached from the housing body 602 when the access cover 603 is opened. Rather, it remains fixed to the housing body. Alternatives are possible and can be used with assembly 400 of FIG. 14.

[0186] Still referring to Figure 47, other features that can be seen include a filtered air flow outlet device 604, which directs filtered air out of the housing and towards downstream equipment. Air to be filtered generally enters the housing through an inlet at end 605. At 606, optional mounting pads are shown to facilitate attachment to equipment during use. Pads 606 can be positioned in various locations to facilitate fastening.

[0187] No particular characteristics are intended from the orientation shown in Fig. 47 as to how the entire housing 601 and overall assembly 600 is oriented during use. The assembly 600 can be positioned with the side facing away from the view of Fig. 47 facing up or down. However, it can also be oriented such that the outlet 604 faces up or down.

[0188] In FIG. 48, an exploded view of the air cleaner assembly 600 is shown with the access cover 603 pivoted open. The cartridge 620 received therein is shown exploded from the interior 602i of the body 602. By carefully examining FIG. 48, it can be seen that the illustrated exemplary air cleaner assembly 600 is a "side-loading" assembly, a term used herein. That is, the cartridge 620 is inserted into or removed from the housing body 602 from its side between the inlet 605 and the outlet 604. This generally means that two types of movement of the cartridge 620 are required during installation. In a first direction, see arrow 609, generally perpendicular to the air flow through the cartridge 620, the cartridge 620 is inserted into the housing body 602. In a second direction (see arrow 610), the cartridge is pushed in the direction of sealing with the housing and in the direction of flow therethrough. This type of side loading is described in principle in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,396,375, 7,655,074, 7,905,936, 7,713,321, and 7,972,404, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0189] 49 and 50, there is shown a perspective view of a cartridge 620. Cartridge 620 can be seen to include a filter media pack 621 having opposed inlet and outlet ends 622, 623.

[0190] At the inlet and outlet end 623 is shown a sealing arrangement 625. The sealing arrangement 625 may be generally in accordance with the sealing arrangement 552 of Figs. 39-40, although variations may be used. It thus includes a sealing member 626 forming a sealing surface 626s configured to form an outward radial seal, the sealing surface 626s having a peripheral shape with an arcuate semicircular curved end 627, opposite curved ends of the end 627 at mutually opposed straight side portions 628, 629, and 630. The end 630 includes a corrugated or convex / concave configuration with three concave portions 631 and two convex portions 632. At the end 623 is shown a seal support preform 635 including a handle portion 636 and a support area 637 (Fig. 53) for supporting a seal.

[0191] The sealing device 625 may be held in place by an overmold, 638, FIG. 49, of a type similar to that previously described.

[0192] 49 and 50, at the inlet / outlet end 622, a second preform 640 is shown having a band portion 641 surrounding the filter media 620, an end rim portion 642 extending over a portion of the end 622, and an attachment handle arrangement 645. The particular handle arrangement 625 is positioned to overlap the curved end 621 of the oval shaped filter media pack 621.

[0193] It is noted that in the particular exemplary arrangement shown, the handle arrangement 645 aligns with the same curved end 621a of the media pack 621, as does the scalloped (convex / concave) end portion 630 of the sealing surface 626s described above, the advantages of which are explained below, although alternatives are possible.

[0194] In Figure 51, a side view of a filter cartridge 620 is shown provided with the features described above. In Figure 52, an end view looking towards end 623 is shown with the features described above.

[0195] An exploded view is shown with the above mentioned features in Fig. 53. An alternative schematic exploded perspective view similar to Fig. 53 is shown in Fig. 54.

[0196] 48, a handle arrangement 645 is positioned to facilitate installation when oriented near the same curved end 621a of the media pack 621 as is the corrugated portion 630. This allows the arcuate portion 627 of the seal arrangement at the opposite end to the arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) portion 630 to be inserted first or partially inserted during side installation, after which the user manipulates the handle 645 to fully engage the seal and complete installation. In this type of operation, the non-corrugated arcuate portion 627 of the seal opposite the corrugated portion 630 facilitates installation.

[0197] It is noted that the handle device 645 can also be used as part of a protruding device that engages the access cover 603 to secure the cartridge in place. An example of this is shown in Figures 55-56. The access cover 603 can therefore have various features that help support the cartridge 620 against undesired movement during installation.

[0198] E. Some Useful Variations and Alternatives, Figures 57-59 The principles described herein with respect to the various embodiments of the previous figures may also have other applications. For example, as previously described, an outward radial seal may be used. Alternatively, as previously described, an inward radial seal may be used. Indeed, in some instances, both types of seals may be used.

[0199] In the illustrated example, the sealing arrangement shown is of the type which engages with a peripheral portion of the housing structure. The seal may be formed through mounting in a groove or other receiving arrangement in the housing during use.

[0200] The principles discussed above can be understood, for example, from the schematic cross-sectional view of Figure 57. A housing structural arrangement 700 is shown, which includes a receiving groove 701 for a sealing device in use. In Figure 57, a sealing device 720 is shown as being insertable into groove 701. The sealing device 720 includes a radially outwardly facing sealing member or surface 721 as shown, for engaging an outer flange 701o on groove 701. Alternatively, or additionally, the sealing device 720 may include a radially inwardly facing sealing surface 722 oriented and configured to engage an inner surface or flange 701i of groove 701 in use.

[0201] 57, it can be seen that either an outward radial seal or an inward radial seal, or both, can be used with groove 701. It is noted that if only one is used, the opposite side of the sealing device can still be configured to engage an associated surface of groove 701 to provide stability, but not necessarily a seal.

[0202] In FIG. 58, at 730 is shown a seal arrangement having an inward radial seal.

[0203] In FIG. 59, a sealing arrangement having both an outwardly facing sealing arrangement 731 and an inwardly facing sealing arrangement 732 is shown.

[0204] The variations described in this section may be implemented in any of the various specific features and in any of the embodiments characterized above.

[0205] VI. Some general principles, observations, and considerations regarding Figures 14-61 A. Overall: Figures 60 and 61 The examples characterized above in connection with Figures 41-59 demonstrate that the general principles characterized herein can be applied to a variety of forms of filter cartridges and housings for air cleaning devices. In this section, an overall consideration of an exemplary preferred device is characterized.

[0206] 60 is a schematic diagram of a (non-arcuate) but corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface section usable in selected devices according to the present disclosure. FIG. 60 can be seen as a schematic diagram of the perimeter of the example corrugated seal surface section of FIG.

[0207] Fig. 61 is of an arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) surface section usable in selected devices according to the present disclosure. Fig. 61 is generally the same as Fig. 60, which can be viewed as showing a peripheral portion of the example corrugated seal surface section of Fig. 40.

[0208] B. SELECTED GENERAL FEATURES OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS DESCRIBED HEREIN AND / OR ILLUSTRATED IN U.S. PROVISIONAL APPLICATION NO. 62 / 543,090, INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE In a typical application of the characterized technology in a linear flow configuration, an air filter cartridge can be provided that includes a filter media pack having first and second mutually opposed intake and exhaust ends. A first of the first and second mutually opposed intake and exhaust ends can include an exhaust end and the opposite end can be an intake end. The filter media pack is configured such that the filter media filters air entering through the intake end before the air is oriented to exit through the opposite exhaust end. Various types of filter media have been characterized and various shapes and configurations can be used. Such cartridges (for example) are included in the cartridge views of Figures 15, 16, 23, 39, and 48.

[0209] The housing seal device is positioned on the media pack. The housing seal device is typically positioned on (or near) one of the two inlet and outlet ends. In many instances, it is near the outlet end, but alternatives are possible. Examples of cartridges with seal devices on the inlet and outlet ends are included in the figures of Figures 15, 16, 23, 39, and 48.

[0210] The housing seal device generally includes a radially oriented seal member defining a radial seal surface oriented for releasable, sealable engagement with structure of the air cleaning device during use. The housing seal device is typically configured to define an air flow passage that overlaps with the filter media flow pack, with the radial seal surface extending around the air flow passage. Examples of such cartridges are included in the views of Figures 15, 16, 23, 39, and 48.

[0211] A radial seal surface, as that term is used herein, may face the flow path if the seal is a radially inward seal, or may face away from the air flow path if the seal is a radially outward seal. Devices with double sided seals (both radially outward and radially inward) are also possible as discussed above.

[0212] A radial seal surface is generally characterized as defining a circumferential direction extending around the flow passage. The term "circumferential" refers to the seal surface material and the extent of the seal surface circumferentially along the inner or outer periphery of the air passage (depending on whether the surface faces inward or outward).

[0213] In many applications, a typical sealing surface preferably includes at least a first arcuate sealing portion configured to "radially sealingly engage a non-corrugated (i.e. non-convex / concave) air cleaning device structure", although alternatives are possible. By this and similar terms, it is meant that the sealing surface is configured in this region to seal with a non-corrugated (i.e. non-convex / concave) surface of the corresponding housing region (structure) when installed in the air cleaning device. This does not necessarily mean that the sealing surface (on the cartridge) at the first arcuate sealing surface (on the cartridge) is completely free of any one or all localized convexities or concavities therein. Rather, it means that if it has any such features on the sealing surface of the cartridge, they are preferably small enough so as not to interfere with sealing when the structural region seal of the housing to be sealed itself does not have corrugations (convex and / or concave) in the corresponding region. An exemplary cartridge having such a first arcuate portion is shown in FIG. 24 (see portion 801) and FIG. 40 (see portion 901).

[0214] While alternatives are possible, in certain instances the first arcuate sealing surface portion spans an inner arc (between arc ends) of at least 130°, usually no more than 270°, typically within the range of 150° to 210° inclusive, often within the range of 160° to 200° inclusive, and typically 170° to 190° inclusive. Often the first arcuate sealing surface spans an arc (between arc ends) of 180°.

[0215] However, it is noted that the non-wavy portion of the arc can span a relatively short arc, for example at least 20°, typically at least 30°, often at least 40°, and often up to 110°, and in some cases up to 180°, examples of which are suggested in the following description with respect to subsequent figures.

[0216] In the example of FIG. 24, the arcuate ends of the first arcuate portion 801 are shown at 802, 803, and the first arcuate portion 801 spans an arc of 180°. In the example of FIG. 40, the first arcuate end 901 spans an arc between ends 902, 903 and can be characterized as an arc of 180°. It is noted that, according to the terminology used thus far, the arcuate portion 901 of FIG. 40 is not considered to span an arc between end points 904, 905, and the arc is still 180°, but is characterized as having a straight portion therein. This is because, although the first arcuate portion may include straight portions therein, in some cases, the end of the arc is typically considered to be the final end point where the various curved portions (within the first arcuate portion) end within the overall length of the arc. It is therefore the end points 902, 903 at either end of the first arcuate portion defined by one or more curved portions therein.

[0217] In the cartridge of Fig. 24, it can be seen that the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is identified by portion 806 between end points 803, 807, or as corrugated seal (convex / concave) portion 808 between end points 802, 809 (the other corrugated seal portion shown is the second corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion). In the example of Fig. 40, the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion can include portion 906 extending between end points 904, 905. In Fig. 60, a schematic diagram corresponding to portion 806 of Fig. 24 is shown, and in Fig. 61, a schematic diagram of the corrugated (convex / concave) portion according to portion 906 of Fig. 40 is shown.

[0218] The term "first arcuate sealing surface," when used in this context, is not intended to imply or suggest that the arcuate sealing surface defines a circular arc unless specifically specified otherwise, for example, by characterizing it as "circular" or having a certain amount of radius (although even so, slight deviations from circular are intended to be included in the term unless specifically stated otherwise).

[0219] Typically, in the configurations described thus far, the sealing surface includes at least one corrugated (convex / concave) sealing surface including a radially directed portion that includes an alternating radially convex / concave configuration, i.e., a configuration having alternating radially convex and radially concave portions therein. Typically, variations are possible, some of which are characterized below.

[0220] As used herein, the term "radial convex / concave configuration" and variations thereof generally characterize a "wavy" configuration of alternating concave and convex portions within a region. The term does not attempt to indicate whether the convex or concave portions come first (in extent from the end of the portion). Thus, the term "convex / concave" configuration has the same meaning as "concave / convex" configuration as used herein. The term "wavy" in this context indicates alternating convex and concave portions, does not indicate any additional characteristics regarding the nature of the shapes of these concave and convex portions, and does not attempt to indicate that all the concave portions are the same shape (or size) and that all the convex portions are the same shape (or size) unless otherwise specified. In the example of FIG. 40, the radius of the first arcuate portion 901 is generally indicated by dimension 915. The radii of the various alternating convex and concave portions of the wavy portion 906 are indicated by 916, 917, 918, 919, and 920.

[0221] The first arcuate sealing surface, in many configurations according to the present disclosure, is typically an arcuate sealing surface portion having a non-corrugated (non-convex / non-indented) configuration throughout the circumferential extent around the corresponding inner arc, see, for example, Figures 24 and 40. In some instances, if there are any small protrusions or recesses therein, typically and preferably these recesses or protrusions do not cause the curvature of the arc to vary by more than about 2 mm, typically not more than about 1 mm, with respect to the opposing side of the deformation. It should be understood hereby that even a non-corrugated (non-convex / non-indented) portion of the sealing surface can have a small protrusion, recess, or convex / concave configuration thereto, so long as the small protrusion or recess is small enough so as not to interfere with radial sealing with the non-corrugated (non-convex / non-indented) housing portion.

[0222] As used herein, the term "circumferential seal face length" refers to the circumferential length dimension of the radial seal face, or of a specified portion of the radial seal face, i.e., the phrase refers in the direction of the extent of the seal face around the periphery of the air flow passage surrounded by the seal member.

[0223] Although alternatives are possible, with respect to the illustrated and described apparatus, typically the total length of the first circumferential sealing face length of the first arcuate sealing face portion is at least 5% of the total circumferential sealing face length of the entire radial sealing face, and often this is at least 10% of that distance, and usually at least 15% of that distance, see e.g., Fig. 24. Also typically and preferably the total length of the first circumferential sealing face length of the first arcuate sealing face is no more than 90% of the total circumferential sealing face length, and often no more than 80% of that length. An example of this is provided by the cartridges of at least Figs. 24 and 40.

[0224] Although alternatives are possible, typically the total length of the first circumferential seal face length of the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is at least 5%, typically at least 10%, and often at least 15% of the total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face, and typically not more than 90%, and often not more than 80% thereof, see example in FIG. 24 and variant in FIG. 40.

[0225] Typically, the first arcuate seal face portion may be characterized as having a first open circumferential face length X1. This refers to the distance of the circumferential extent of the seal face between the end points of the first arcuate seal face portion. The first corrugated seal portion may be characterized as having a total first circumferential seal face length X2. In many applications according to the present disclosure, the ratio of X1 to X2 is at least 0.8, often at least 1.0, and typically at least 1.50. In many instances, the ratio of X1 to X2 is 6.0 or less, often 4.0 or less, and in many instances within the range of 1.0 to 3.0, although alternatives are possible. In the exemplary cartridge of FIG. 24, the first arcuate portion circumferential length X1 is the seal face length between end points 802, 803 of the first seal face portion 801. In the same example of FIG. 24, X2 is the distance between end points 803, 807 across the first corresponding corrugated seal portions 806, 808. 40, X1 corresponds to the distance across first arcuate seal face portion 901 between end points 902, 903, and X2 corresponds to the length across first corrugated seal face portion 906 between end points 905, 906. As used herein, the terms "distance," "length," and variations thereof, in this regard, are intended to refer to the distance of the seal face including its contour (i.e., not necessarily the most direct, shortest, straight line distance).

[0226] As used herein, unless specifically stated as such, convex or concave portions within a convex / concave configuration are not necessarily curved, nor are they intended to be curved to a circular profile unless specifically stated as such or implied by the definition of the radius of curvature. Thus, when the term "radius of curvature" is used, it means that the shape is substantially circular, and therefore may be mathematically circular or may deviate slightly therefrom.

[0227] Typically, in configurations such as those described above, at least one of the convex and concave portions of the corrugated (convex / concave) portion has a radius of curvature R2, and the first arcuate seal surface portion has a radius of curvature R1. Typically, the ratio of R1 / R2 is at least 1.5, usually at least 2.0, and often at least 4.0. Variations are possible. This feature can be understood, for example, by referring to the example of FIG. 24, or by referring to the example of FIG. 40. Referring first to FIG. 24, the radius of curvature R1 of the first arcuate seal surface portion is generally shown at 815, and the individual radii R2 of the various convex and concave portions of the first corrugated seal portion 806 (or 808) are shown with various dimensions 816, 817, 818, 819, 820 (or 821, 822, 823, 824, 825). What is meant by the characterization in this paragraph is the relationship between R1 and R2 for at least a selected one of the convex and concave portions. This is not intended to imply that all concave and convex portions have the same radius as the others, etc. In the example of Figure 24, R1 corresponds to radius 815 of first arcuate seal portion 801, and R2 corresponds to the radius of a selected one of the various convex and concave portions (816-820, or 821-825) of the first corrugated seal face portion (either 806 or 808, respectively).

[0228] Typically, each convex portion and each concave portion in the curved convex / curved concave configuration of the first corrugated (convex / concave) sealing surface portion has a radius of curvature R2 such that the ratio of R1 / R2 is at least 1.5, usually at least 2.0, and often at least 4.0. This does not mean that the radius of curvature of each concave portion and each convex portion must necessarily be the same. Thus, R2 may be different for each of the convex portions and concave portions, as long as the ratios specified above are as above.

[0229] Notwithstanding the discussion of the previous paragraph, in some exemplary examples, it is expected that each curved concave portion of a first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, if curved to conform to the curvature of a circle, will have the same radius of curvature as each other concave portion in the same corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, and each curved convex portion of a first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, if curved to conform to the curvature of a circle, will have the same radius of curvature as each other curved convex portion in the same corrugated seal surface portion, see Figures 24 and 40. However, alternatives are shown in certain figures described below.

[0230] Although alternatives are possible, in some instances, each convex portion within a corrugated surface portion has a larger radius of curvature than each concave portion within the same corrugated seal surface portion, as characterized by the exemplary dimensions already provided herein, see Figures 24 and 40.

[0231] In some instances, each convex portion has a radius of curvature that is 12 mm or less greater than each concave portion in the same corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion, often 6 mm or less greater, and in many instances 4 mm or less greater.

[0232] Typically, each convex portion has a radius of curvature that is at least 0.4 mm greater than each concave portion, typically at least 0.5 mm, and in many instances at least 2 mm greater.

[0233] With reference to Figures 60 and 61, a corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion can be characterized as having a "convex / concave depth." In general, the term "convex / concave depth dimension" and variations thereof shall refer to the radial distance between the maximum concave and maximum convex. In the schematic diagram of Figure 60, this convex / concave depth is represented by dimension D1. In the example of Figure 61, it is represented by D2.

[0234] Typically, the maximum convex / concave depth D1 (or D2) in the first corrugated seal (convex / concave) surface portion is 70 mm or less, often 50 mm or less, usually 30 mm or less. However, typically, the maximum convex / concave depth D1 (or D2) is at least 5 mm, usually at least 10 mm, often at least 15 mm. Alternatives are possible.

[0235] As previously mentioned, the first arcuate sealing surface portion itself need not be a non-corrugated portion. However, if it does include any protrusions or recesses, typically the maximum undulation of each from adjacent portions of its surface when sealed to a non-corrugated (non-convex / concave housing surface) is preferably 2 mm or less (usually the maximum undulation is 1 mm or less). In some examples shown and described hereinabove, the first arcuate sealing surface portion is a non-corrugated portion, as shown in the examples of Figures 24 and 40.

[0236] In some examples and preferred configurations, including those of FIGS. 24 and 40, within a first corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion, each concave and each convex portion is configured to be an arc of a radius (along the circumferential dimension, except for transitions (or changes) where each concave merges with each convex portion). By this, it is meant that the circular contours (if any) of each are not necessarily the same. When each convex and each concave portion within a corrugation portion are generally arcs, preferably the arcuate extent is equal to or less than a semicircle (180°), typically less than that, usually equal to or less than 170°, preferably equal to or less than 150°. However, typically and preferably each extends over an arc of at least 45°, often at least 60°, and in many examples at least 90°. Referring to FIG. 60, for example, the radial arc of concave portion 816 is shown between approximate end points 816a and 816b. An exemplary arc of convex portion 817 is shown between end points 816b and 816c.

[0237] From this it will be seen that the end points of a concave or convex portion are generally the points where the curved transition from concave to convex (concave to convex) occurs. By arc, again it is meant that a concave portion of a convex portion generally does not span an arc as large as a semicircle, with preference being expressed. This generally means that the individual waves (represented by adjacent concave and convex portions in a wave portion) will typically (in many applications) be relatively wide and shallow in overall shape. In this regard, the amount of radial arc shall simply refer to that portion of the circumference of a circle defined by the radius through which the arcs of the convex and concave portions extend.

[0238] As characterized above, the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion can be characterized as having first and second mutually opposed end portions. With reference to FIG. 60, the end portions of the corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion are designated 803 and 807, and in the example of FIG. 61, they are designated 904 and 905. Typically, the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is configured such that the end portions include a concave (i.e., concave shape), as shown in FIGS. 60 and 61, particularly when outward radial sealing is involved. However, in alternative applications, the corrugated seal face portion can be configured such that the first and second mutually opposed end portions include a convex (convex) portion, or each at one end.

[0239] In this specification, a corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion may be characterized as "arcuate" or alternatively as "non-arcuate". In this regard, the term refers to the extent between the end points of the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion being referred to. For example, in the schematic of FIG. 60, the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is not non-arcuate, i.e., arcuate, between end points 803, 807. On the other hand, in the schematic of FIG. 61, the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is arcuate (subject to a semicircular arc of 180° in this example) in the extent between end points 804, 805. In this regard, the term does not refer to the individual waves or convex / concave profiles, but simply refers to the direct circumferential path (straight or arcuate) between the two end points along the circumference of the radial seal.

[0240] As discussed above in connection with the example of Figure 24, the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion may be a non-arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, i.e. located within an otherwise straight portion of the sealing area, however, it may be an arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion spanning an arc between the two ends of that portion, for example as shown in the example of Figure 40.

[0241] The amount of "waviness" of a seal face portion can be understood, in some instances, by comparing the circumferential length across the contour between the end points of the corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion to the direct length between the ends of the corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion. The length across the corrugated portion may be characterized herein as the "convex / concave first circumferential length L1" of the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion. The end-to-end length of the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion may be referred to as the "non-concave first circumferential length L2." In the exemplary diagram of FIG. 60, the convex / concave first circumferential length L1 is the length that follows the contour of the corrugated portion between the end points 803, 807, and the length L2 is the linear dimension between the end points 803 and 807, represented by the length of line L2.

[0242] In FIG. 61, an arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) surface portion is shown, therefore L1 is the length following the contour of the corrugated (convex / concave) portion between end points 904, 905, and L2 is the length of the arc (non-corrugated or non-convex / concave) represented by line L2 extending between the same two end points.

[0243] It is noted that in some applications, when the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion is a straight or non-arcuate seal portion (FIG. 60), the length from the contoured length L1 to the non-concave length L2 is typically quite large. However, in the arcuate corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion shown in FIG. 61, the contoured arcuate length may be relatively close to the corresponding non-concave arcuate length, and the ratio of L1 / L2 reflects this.

[0244] In many cases, within the corrugated (concave / convex) portion, the ratio of L1 to L2 is 2.5 or less, usually 2 or less, and often 1.6 or less. However, the ratio of L1 to L2 is 1.0 or more, usually 1.01 or more, such as 1.03 or more, and sometimes 1.1 or more. Alternatives are possible.

[0245] In the region between the ends, typically and preferably, the corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion does not have a substantial length of straight, i.e., non-curved, region. Indeed, in many instances, the concave portion transitions into the convex portion, with a curved portion at each junction of the transition point, but without a significant straight (non-curved) portion. However, in some instances, straight portions may be included. Typically, the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion between the ends does not have a non-curved subportion therein (i.e., a straight portion therein) that is greater than 10 mm in circumferential length, preferably 5 mm or less in circumferential length, usually 3 mm or less in length, or in many cases does not have any non-curved subportion therein at all.

[0246] While alternatives are possible, in many applications the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion will include at least three recesses therein, and typically no more than eight (often no more than five) recesses therein. Also, in many instances the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion will include at least two protrusions therein, and often no more than seven (typically no more than five) protrusions therein. Although alternatives are possible, an example of three recesses and two protrusions is shown for the corrugated (convex / concave) seal portion of Figures 60 and 61.

[0247] Many of the techniques characterized herein are particularly adapted for use with cartridges having relatively large seal perimeters. In many cases, the circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is at least 150 mm, typically at least 200 mm, and often at least 250 mm. It is noted that the first arcuate seal face portion surface may in some instances be characterized as a "single convex portion" between the endpoints of an arc in the seal face, see for example 861 in FIG. 21 and 901 in FIG. 40 (with example dimensions characterized above).

[0248] As with typical and preferred applications in larger cartridges, the first corrugated (convex / concave) seal face portion can typically be characterized as having a relatively large circumferential seal face length, typically at least 50 mm, often at least 80 mm, and in many instances at least 100 mm, examples of which are shown in the configurations of Figures 24 and 40 (with example dimensions characterized above).

[0249] As previously mentioned, the radial sealing surface may be a radially outward sealing surface, a radially inward sealing surface, or the seal arrangement may be characterized as having both a radially inward radial sealing surface and a radially outward radial sealing surface.

[0250] In many applications of the technology described herein, the entire radial surface can be characterized as having a modified elliptical perimeter or modified elliptical shape. In this regard, "elliptical" generally includes a shape having two opposing curved ends and side portions extending therebetween without any corrugated (convex / concave) portions therein. If the two curved portions are semicircular and the area extending between the two arcuate curved ends is straight, the elliptical sealing surface can be characterized as a "racetrack" or a racetrack version of an ellipse. As used herein, the term "modified" refers to at least a portion of an otherwise elliptical (or racetrack-type) sealing surface having a corrugated (convex / concave) sealing surface profile as characterized herein. The examples of Figures 24 and 40 can be characterized as "modified elliptical" seals, and in each case the modification is a modified racetrack-type ellipse.

[0251] 60 and 61, in the illustrated example, each convex portion extends to a point where it meets an unaltered straight or unaltered curved portion of the "elliptical perimeter." While this is typical in many applications, it is not necessary. Alternatives are discussed below.

[0252] In an exemplary configuration having a modified elliptical peripheral shape, the peripheral shape of the seal face includes a first arcuate seal surface portion extending along an arc of a semicircle, a second arcuate seal surface portion opposite the first arcuate seal surface portion, a first side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, the first side seal face including a first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, and a second side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, the second side seal surface portion opposite the first side seal surface portion. The example of FIG. 24 corresponds to this, where the second arcuate seal surface portion is a non-corrugated portion and the second side seal surface portion is a corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion.

[0253] In many examples of the type of Example 24, the second side seal surface portion is a mirror image of the first side seal surface portion.

[0254] In configurations of the type of Example 24, typically the radial seal faces have no straight circumferential portions therein that are greater than 15 mm, usually no more than 10 mm, and often no more than 5 mm. Indeed, in many applications, they have no straight circumferential seal face portions therein at all.

[0255] However, in some applications, such as the configuration of Figure 40, the seal surface has straight circumferential seal surface portions therein. In fact, the configuration of Figure 40 can be characterized as having a modified elliptical circumferential shape, with a first arcuate seal surface portion along a semicircular arc, a second arcuate seal surface portion opposite the first arcuate seal surface portion and including a first corrugated (convex / concave) seal surface portion, a first side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, and a second side seal surface portion extending between the first arcuate seal surface portion and the second surface portion on the portion opposite the first side seal surface portion. In the example of Figure 40, the first side seal surface portion is a first non-corrugated (non-convex / concave) side seal surface portion, the second side seal surface portion is a mirror image of the first side seal surface portion, and the first and second seal surface portions are each straight and parallel to each other in the circumferential direction. Alternatives are possible.

[0256] In some examples characterized herein, the cartridge may include a seal support preform with a seal support flange positioned embedded in (or otherwise engaged with) the seal material defining the radial seal surface. The seal support preform may be secured in place on the media pack, for example, by a molded-in-place material that also includes an area of ​​the seal material itself integral therewith. The seal support may be continuous and solid throughout, or may have slots, slits, or holes therein. In the examples described thus far, the support flange defines a size small enough to overlap the edge of the mating media pack.

[0257] Typically, the seal support flange has a perimeter with a radial shape that circumferentially aligns with the seal in the radial direction. Thus, the seal support flange has a non-corrugated (non-convex / concave) portion that overlaps (aligns) with a non-corrugated (non-convex / concave) portion of the seal face, and the seal support has a corrugated (convex / concave) portion that radially overlaps or aligns with the corrugated portion of the seal face. This helps the seal support provide the desired level of compression to the seal in a controlled manner throughout the entire perimeter.

[0258] It is noted that the seal support preform may be characterized as defining or surrounding an air flow passage around which the radial seal extends.

[0259] Often the seal support preform will include an optional media pack grid arrangement extending across it, which can provide stiffness to the seal support as well as support the media pack against distortion.

[0260] The seal support preform may be provided with a handle bridge thereon, for example to overlap an end of the media pack, examples of which are shown in connection with Figures 23 and 39.

[0261] The seal support preform is typically located at the exhaust end of the media pack, although alternatives are possible, since it is often desirable to separate the clean air mass from the dirty air mass closer to the outlet end of the media pack if design parameters permit.

[0262] Typically, the housing seal device includes a molded-in-place portion that secures the seal support preform to the media pack and surrounds the media pack, as described above. Typically, the molded-in-place portion also includes an integral radial seal. Typically and preferably, the molded-in-place material has a "molded density" of 0.45 kg / cu.cm or less, typically 0.295 kg / cu.cm or less. Typically, it is molded to have an "as molded" Shore A hardness of 30 or less, typically 24 or less, often 20 or less, and often at least 10. In many cases, a foamed polymeric material is desired. A well-known material that can be used in this situation is a foamed polyurethane that expands in volume during use, as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 9,457,310, which is incorporated by reference.

[0263] The cartridge may include an end preform spaced apart from and separated from the seal support preform. Examples are shown at 430 in FIG. 16 and 610 in FIG. 49. The end preform may include a portion or rim that surrounds the media pack and, optionally, an installation handle member. An installation handle member is a handle member oriented to be gripped to aid in installation or removal from the cartridge housing. It will be appreciated that when the seal support device is positioned at the innermost end of the cartridge during installation, the preform having the installation handle member is typically positioned at or near the opposite end of the media pack from the seal support preform. The installation handle member may be positioned to axially overlap the inlet and outlet ends of the media pack (see FIG. 16), or it may overlap a side of the media pack, see FIG. 49. The term "installation handle" member and variations thereof are intended to refer to a handle member that can be gripped and used to aid in either installation or removal of the cartridge.

[0264] Although the features and techniques characterized herein are specifically devised for a media pack having an elliptical perimeter shape per se, the techniques are applicable to other applications as well.Typically, when a media pack has an elliptical perimeter shape, it has a racetrack or approximately racetrack shaped perimeter, with opposing curved ends and straight sides extending therebetween.

[0265] For such filter media packs, typically a preform is provided having a handle member that aligns with the curved end of the filter media pack, which is a handle device that aligns with the selected curved end of the filter media pack and which also has an arcuate corrugated sealing surface portion aligned therewith at the opposite end of the filter media pack.

[0266] It is noted that it is not specifically required that an air filter cartridge, component, or air cleaning device assembly include all of the features characterized herein in order to obtain any benefits according to the present disclosure. Further, for example, for features characterized with respect to each embodiment, the features may be implemented in alternative cartridges to a particular example as desired, and do not necessarily require all of the other features.

[0267] It is noted that in this example, the illustrated media pack is generally, for example, elliptical, which may be a result of the various techniques characterized above for the definition of the media. Typically, such configurations would include rolled media, although alternatives are possible. Techniques can also be used for stacked media, as shown in FIG. 7. Typical in such examples is the use of a preform that properly engages the media pack and then supports the desired, characterized type of seal configuration.

[0268] It is noted that some specific illustrations are shown in the figures described above. However, the general features of the figures may be selected for aesthetic (design appearance) reasons and may be consistent with the variables characterized herein for specific features when used. That is, the specific design of the figures also reflects the aesthetic properties as well as the variations that are possible with the description herein.

[0269] C. Exemplary Features from the Disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,090, Which is Incorporated by Reference 1. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media and having first and second opposed ends, (i) a first of the opposed ends including an intake end, (ii) a second of the opposed ends including an exhaust end, (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end; and (b) a housing seal device positioned on the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal device defining an air flow path, and (ii) the housing seal device configured to seal an air flow path through the housing seal device, ... (iii) the radial sealing surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow path periphery, and (iv) the sealing surface includes: (A) at least a first arcuate sealing surface portion that is fully radially and sealingly engaged with a portion of the non-corrugated air cleaning device structure and extends over an inner arc of at least 130° between the ends of the arc; and (B) a housing seal arrangement including at least a first corrugated seal surface portion including a radially directed portion that includes an alternating radial convex / concave configuration. 2. The air filter cartridge according to feature 1, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends over an inner arc of 270 degrees or less. 3. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 and 2, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends over an inner arc within the range of 150° to 210° inclusive. 4. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 and 2, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends over an inner arc within the range of 160° to 200° inclusive. 5. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-4, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends through an inner arc of 130 degrees or less. 6. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-5, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends over an inner arc of 180 degrees. 7. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-6, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion has a non-corrugated configuration throughout the circumferential extent around the corresponding inner arc. 8. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-7, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is at least 5% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 9. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-8, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is at least 10% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 10. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-8, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is at least 15% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 11. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-10, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is less than or equal to 90% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 12. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-11, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first arcuate seal face portion is less than or equal to 80% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 13. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-12, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first corrugated seal face portion is at least 5% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 14. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-13, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first corrugated seal face portion is at least 10% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 15. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-14, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal face length of the first corrugated seal face portion is at least 15% of a total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face. 16. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 15, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal surface length of the first corrugated seal surface portion is less than or equal to 90% of a total circumferential seal surface length of the radial seal surface. 17. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-16, wherein: (a) a total first circumferential seal surface length of the first corrugated seal surface portion is less than or equal to 80% of a total circumferential seal surface length of the radial seal surface. 18. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-17, wherein (a) the first arcuate seal surface portion has a first circumferential seal surface length total length of X1; (b) the first corrugated seal surface portion has a first circumferential seal surface length total length of X2; and (i) a ratio of X1 to X2 is at least 0.8. 19. The air filter cartridge according to feature 18, wherein: (a) the ratio of X1 to X2 is at least 1.0. 20. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 18 and 19, wherein: (a) the ratio of X1 to X2 is at least 1.5. 21. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 18 to 20, wherein: (a) the ratio of X1 to X2 is 6 or less; 22. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 18 to 21, wherein: (a) the ratio of X1 to X2 is 4.0 or less. 23. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 18-22, wherein: (a) the ratio of X1 to X2 is within the range of 1.0 to 3.0. 24. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-23, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion extends over an arc of 160° to 200°, inclusive, and has a radius of curvature R1; (b) the first corrugated portion includes a curved convex portion / curved concave portion configuration having at least a plurality of concave portions; and (i) at least a selected one of the convex portions and concave portions in the curved convex portion / curved concave portion configuration has a radius of curvature R2 such that the ratio of R1 / R2 is at least 1.5. 25. The air filter cartridge according to feature 24, wherein: (a) the ratio of R1 / R2 is at least 2.0. 26. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 24 and 25, wherein: (a) the ratio of R1 / R2 is at least 4.0. 27. An air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-26, wherein (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion has a radius of curvature R1; (b) the first corrugated portion includes a curved convex / curved concave configuration having at least a plurality of concave portions and a plurality of convex portions; and (i) each convex portion and each concave portion in the curved convex / curved concave portion configuration of the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a radius of curvature R2 such that a ratio of R1 / R2 for each is at least 1.5. 28. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-27, wherein (a) the first corrugated portion includes a curved convex / curved concave configuration having at least a plurality of concave portions and a plurality of convex portions, and (i) each convex portion and each concave portion in the curved convex portion / curved concave portion configuration of the first corrugated seal surface portion has a radius of curvature R2 such that a ratio of R1 / R2 for each is at least 2.0. 29. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-28, wherein (a) the first corrugated portion includes a curved convex / curved concave configuration having at least a plurality of concave portions and a plurality of convex portions, and (i) each convex portion and each concave portion in the curved convex portion / curved concave portion configuration of the first corrugated portion has a radius of curvature R2 such that the ratio of R1 / R2 for each is at least 4.0. 30. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 26-28, wherein (a) each of the curved convex portions of the first corrugated seal surface portion has the same radius of curvature as each of the other curved convex portions of the first corrugated seal surface portion, and (b) each of the curved concave portions of the first corrugated seal surface portion has the same radius of curvature as each of the other curved concave portions of the first corrugated seal surface portion. 31. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1 to 30, wherein: (a) each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a larger radius of curvature than each concave portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion. 32. The air filter cartridge according to feature 30, wherein: (a) a radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is no more than 12 mm greater than each concave portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion. 33. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 31 and 32, wherein: (a) the radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is no more than 6 mm greater than each concave portion of the same first corrugated sealing surface portion. 34. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 31 to 33, wherein: (a) the radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated seal surface portion is 4 mm or less greater than each concave portion of the same first corrugated seal surface portion. 35. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 30-34, wherein: (a) the radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is at least 0.4 mm greater than each concave portion of the same first corrugated sealing surface portion. 36. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 30-35, wherein: (a) the radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is at least 0.5 mm greater than each concave portion of the same first corrugated sealing surface portion. 37. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 30-36, wherein: (a) the radius of curvature of each convex portion of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is at least 2.0 mm greater than each concave portion of the same first corrugated sealing surface portion. 38. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 37, wherein (a) the maximum convex / concave depth dimension of the first corrugated sealing surface portion is 70 mm or less. 39. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 38, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a maximum convex / concave depth dimension of 50 mm or less. 40. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 39, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a maximum convex / concave depth dimension of 30 mm or less. 41. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-40, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a maximum convex / concave depth dimension of at least 5 mm. 42. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-41, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a maximum convex / concave depth dimension of at least 10 mm. 43. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-42, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a maximum convex / concave depth dimension of at least 15 mm. 44. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-43, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion has no secondary protrusions therein having a maximum undulation of greater than 2 mm. 45. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-44, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion has no secondary recesses therein having a maximum relief greater than 2 mm. 46. ​​The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-45, wherein (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion is a non-corrugated portion. 47. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-46, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of 180° or less. 48. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-47, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated seal surface portion extends through a radial arc of 170° or less. 49. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-48, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated seal surface portion extends through a radial arc of 150° or less. 50. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-49, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 60 degrees. 51. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-50, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 90 degrees. 52. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-51, wherein: (a) each concave portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 110 degrees. 53. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-52, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of 180° or less. 54. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-53, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of 170° or less. 55. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-54, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of 150° or less. 56. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-55, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 60 degrees. 57. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-56, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 90 degrees. 58. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-57, wherein: (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion extends through a radial arc of at least 110 degrees. 59. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-58, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes first and second opposed end recessed portions. 60. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-58, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes first and second opposed terminal convex portions. 61. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-60, wherein (a) the first corrugated seal surface portion is a non-arcuate corrugated seal surface portion. 62. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-60, wherein (a) the first corrugated seal surface portion is an arcuate corrugated seal surface portion. 63. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-62, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a first circumferential length L1 that is contoured; (b) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has a first circumferential length L2 that is smooth; and (i) a ratio of L1 to L2 is less than or equal to 2.5. 64. The air filter cartridge according to feature 63, wherein: (a) the ratio of L1 to L2 is 2.0 or less. 65. An air filter cartridge according to either one of features 63 and 64, wherein: (a) the ratio of L1 to L2 is 1.6 or less. 66. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 63-65, wherein: (a) the ratio of L1 to L2 is 1.01 or greater; 67. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 63-66, wherein: (a) the ratio of L1 to L2 is 1.03 or greater; 68. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 63-67, wherein: (a) the ratio of L1 to L2 is 1.1 or greater; 69. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-68, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has no non-curved surface portion therein having a circumferential length greater than 5 mm. 70. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-69, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has no non-curved surface portion therein having a circumferential length greater than 3 mm. 71. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-70, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion has no non-curved surface circumferential subportion therein. 72. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-70, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes at least three recesses therein. 73. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-72, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes eight or less recesses therein. 74. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-73, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes at least two protrusions therein. 75. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-74, wherein (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes seven or fewer protrusions therein. 76. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-75, wherein: (a) the protruding directional seal surface length of the first arcuate seal surface portion is at least 150 mm. 77. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-76, wherein: (a) the protruding seal surface length of the first arcuate seal surface portion is at least 200 mm. 78. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-77, wherein: (a) the protruding seal surface length of the first arcuate seal surface portion is at least 250 mm. 79. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-78, wherein: (a) the circumferential seal surface length of the first corrugated seal surface portion is at least 50 mm. 80. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-79, wherein: (a) the circumferential seal surface length of the first corrugated seal surface portion is at least 80 mm. 81. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-80, wherein: (a) the first corrugated seal surface portion has a circumferential seal surface length of at least 100 mm. 82. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-80, wherein (a) the radial sealing surface is a radially outwardly facing radial sealing surface. 83. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-81, wherein (a) the radial sealing surface is a radially inward radial sealing surface. 84. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-83, wherein (a) the radial sealing surface has a modified elliptical shape. 85. The air filter cartridge according to feature 84, wherein (a) each convex portion in the first corrugated sealing surface portion includes first and second opposed semicircular ends and extends therebetween to a tangent to an ellipse having first and second opposed straight sides. 86. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-85, wherein (a) the sealing surface has a modified elliptical peripheral shape having (i) a first arcuate seal surface portion extending over a semicircular arc, (ii) a second arcuate seal surface portion opposite the first arcuate seal surface portion, (iii) a first side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, the first side seal surface portion including a first corrugated seal surface portion, and (iv) a second side seal surface portion extending between the first arcuate seal surface portion and the second arcuate seal surface portion, the second side seal surface portion opposite the first side seal surface portion. 87. The air filter cartridge according to feature 86, wherein (a) the second side surface portion is a second corrugated sealing surface portion. 88. The air filter cartridge according to either one of features 86 and 87, wherein: (a) the second side surface portion is a mirror image of the first side sealing surface portion. 89. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 86-88, wherein (a) the radial seal surface has no straight circumferential seal surface portion therein greater than 15 mm. 90. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 85-89, wherein (a) the sealing surface has no straight circumferential sealing surface portion greater than 10 mm. 91. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 85-90, wherein (a) the sealing surface has no straight circumferential portion greater than 5 mm. 92. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-85, wherein (a) the sealing surface has a modified elliptical peripheral shape having (i) a first arcuate seal surface portion extending across a semicircular arc, (ii) a second arcuate seal surface portion opposite the first arcuate seal surface portion and including a first corrugated seal surface portion, (iii) a first side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, and (iv) a second side seal surface portion extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, the second side seal surface portion opposite the first side seal surface portion. 93. The air filter cartridge according to feature 92, wherein (a) the first side seal surface portion is a first non-corrugated side seal surface portion. 94. The air filter cartridge according to either one of features 92 and 93, wherein: (a) the second side seal surface portion is a mirror image of the first side seal surface portion. 95. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 92-94, wherein: (a) the first and second side sealing surface portions are each circumferentially straight and mutually parallel. 96. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-95, including: (a) a seal support preform positioned thereon for supporting a seal member during sealing. 97. The air filter cartridge according to feature 96, wherein (a) the seal member includes a molded-in-place machined portion defining a radially directed seal member, and (b) the seal support preform includes a seal support feature embedded in the molded-in-place machined portion defining the radially directed seal member. 98. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96 and 97, wherein: (a) the circumferential shape of the seal support flange has a circumferential shape that radially aligns with the radial seal. 99. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96-98, wherein: (a) the seal support preform defines an air flow passage having a media pack lattice configuration extending therethrough. 100. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96-99, wherein (a) the seal support preform includes a handle bridge thereon. 101. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96-101, wherein (a) the seal support preform is positioned at an exhaust end of the filter media pack. 102. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96-101, wherein (a) the housing seal device secures the seal support preform to the filter media pack and includes a molded-in-place machined portion surrounding the filter media pack. 103. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 96-102, comprising: (a) an end preform spaced apart from and separated from a seal support preform; and (i) a second preform including a portion surrounding a filter media pack. 104. The air filter cartridge according to feature 103, wherein (a) the second preform includes a handle member axially aligned with the inlet and outlet ends of the filter media pack. 105. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-104, wherein: (a) the filter media pack has an elliptical shape with first and second opposed curved ends and first and second side portions extending therebetween; and (i) the first and second side portions have circumferential shapes that are mirror images of each other. 106. The air filter cartridge according to feature 105, wherein (a) the first and second curved ends of the filter media pack are semicircular, and (b) the first and second side portions of the filter media pack are straight. 107. The air filter cartridge according to either one of features 105 and 106, wherein: (a) the first arcuate sealing surface portion of the radial sealing surface is positioned in circumferential alignment with the first curved end of the filter media pack. 108. The air filter cartridge according to feature 107, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion is positioned in peripheral alignment with one of the first and second side portions of the filter media pack. 109. The air filter cartridge according to feature 108, wherein: (a) the first corrugated sealing surface portion is positioned in circumferential alignment with the second curved end of the filter media pack. 110. The air filter cartridge according to feature 109, comprising: (a) an attachment handle member positioned spaced apart from the housing seal arrangement and including a handle protrusion in circumferential alignment with the second curved end of the filter media pack. 111. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 110, wherein (a) the sealing member includes a molded-in-place member having a Shore A hardness of 24 or less. 112. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 111, wherein (a) the sealing member includes a molded-in-place member having a Shore A hardness of 20 or less. 113. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 112, wherein (a) the sealing member includes a molded-in-place processed member having a molded density of 0.45 g / cu.cm or less. 114. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 113, wherein (a) the sealing member includes a molded-in-place processed member having a molded density of 0.291 g / cu.cm or less. 115. An air filter cartridge comprises: (a) a filter media pack containing a filter media and having first and second opposed intake and exhaust ends, (i) a first of the opposed ends including an intake end, (ii) a second of the opposed ends including an exhaust end, (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end, (iv) the filter media pack having an elliptical shape with first and second opposed curved ends and first and second side portions extending therebetween, (A) the first and second side portions having the same circumferential shape as each other, and (b) a filter media pack positioned on the filter media pack. and (v) first and second opposing side seal surface portions extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions, and (A) at least the first side seal surface portion is a corrugated seal surface portion including an alternating radial convex / concave configuration. 116. The air filter cartridge according to feature 115, wherein: (a) the second side seal surface portion is a mirror image of the first side seal surface portion. 117. An air filter cartridge comprises: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media and having first and second opposed ends, (i) a first of the opposed ends including an intake end, (ii) a second of the opposed ends including an exhaust end, (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end, (iv) the filter media pack having an elliptical shape with first and second opposed curved ends and first and second side portions extending therebetween, (A) the first and second side portions having the same circumferential shape as each other; and (b ) a housing seal device positioned on the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal device defining an air flow passage, (ii) the housing seal device including radially oriented seal members defining a radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with the air cleaning device in use, (iii) the radial seal surface defining a circumferential direction within a periphery of the flow passage, (iv) a first non-wavy semicircular seal surface portion, (v) a second wave-shaped seal surface portion opposite the first non-wavy semicircular seal surface portion, and (vi) first and second opposing side seal surface portions extending between the first and second arcuate seal surface portions. 118. In the air filter cartridge according to feature 117, (a) the first side seal portion is straight. 119. The air filter cartridge according to feature 118, wherein: (a) the second side seal surface portion is a mirror image of the first side seal surface portion. 120. An air filter cartridge includes: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media and having first and second opposed intake and exhaust ends, (i) a first of the opposed ends including an intake end, (ii) a second of the opposed ends including an exhaust end, and (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end; and (b) a housing seal arrangement positioned on the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal arrangement defining an air flow passage, (ii) the housing seal arrangement including radially oriented seal members defining a radial sealing surface oriented in use for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device, and (iii) the radial sealing surface is configured to surround an air flow passage periphery. and (B) the first arcuate corrugated seal surface portion includes alternating radial convex / concave configurations and an inner arc extent that is 80% or less of the total circumferential seal face length of the radial seal face, (C) the first arcuate seal surface portion has a radius of curvature R1, and (D) the first corrugated portion includes a curved convex / curved concave configuration having at least three concave portions and a plurality of convex portions, and (1) each convex portion and each concave portion in the curved convex / curved concave portion configuration of the first corrugated seal surface portion has a radius of curvature R2 such that the ratio of R1 / R2 for each is at least 1.5. 121. An air cleaning device assembly includes: (a) a housing including a body and an access cover, the housing including: (i) a structural sealing surface including a corrugated portion for sealing against a cartridge seal therein; and (b) an air filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 120 positioned within the housing and releasably sealed to the structural sealing surface of the housing. 122. In the air purification device assembly according to feature 121, (a) the access cover is removably positioned on the housing body. 123. In the air purification device assembly according to feature 121, (a) the access cover is non-removably positioned on the housing body.

[0270] VII. Specific Seal Contour Issues A. Possible Problems with Certain Seals Having the Deformed Types of Seals Preceded - Appearance of Proper Installation and Sealing in an Inappropriate Housing, Figures 62-66 A possible problem with certain radial sealing arrangements having "wave seals" or "convex / concave" portions or patterns, as per the examples and explanations above, is that their use may result in certain circumstances in the cartridge appearing to be installed within the housing, but without proper sealing. This problem can be understood by reference to the following illustrative example and Figures 62-66.

[0271] Attention is first directed to Fig. 62, which is a schematic depiction of the sealing arrangement 506 of Fig. 36, with certain information added to the drawing to facilitate understanding of the problem. With reference to Fig. 62, the sealing arrangement 506 includes a sealing surface 506s, which includes a radially directed sealing surface, as previously described. In this example, the radially directed sealing surface 506s is configured to provide a radially outward radial seal, in the terminology described herein. (Of course, this problem can also arise with an inwardly directed seal.)

[0272] 62, the illustrated exemplary seal device 506 is elliptical (particularly racetrack-shaped) and includes first and second straight, parallel, opposed portions 509, 510, and first and second (arcuate) end portions 508, 510x, as previously described. In this example, end portion 508 is semicircular and end portion 510x is not. Rather, portion 510x has a "convex / concave" or "wavy" shape, as that term is used herein.

[0273] In general terms, the opposing straight side portions 509, 510 can be described as tangent to a hypothetical standard seal face engagement perimeter. In this example, the hypothetical standard seal face engagement perimeter is an ellipse, and the hypothetical elliptical seal face engagement contour includes sides that are coextensive with the opposing straight sides 509, 510, and two opposing semicircular ends. In this example, one such semicircular end is defined at 508 as being coextensive with the seal face 506, and the opposite semicircular end is hypothetical and is shown by dashed line 510z that extends as an arc that is colinear with sides 509, 510. In this specification, the elliptical shape for the hypothetical standard shape may be referred to as a "racetrack" shape because it has two opposing parallel sides and two semicircular ends.

[0274] It should be understood that the hypothetical elliptical seal surface engagement profile is not intended to represent the particular size of the housing component that is to be sealed, and in fact, the seal material within the housing seal arrangement 506 is typically compressed when installed and sealed with the surrounding seal surface (i.e., the potential surrounding housing seal surface typically has the same shape as a standard elliptical (racetrack) seal, but is slightly smaller in perimeter size).

[0275] 62, it can be seen that a cartridge having the illustrated seal can be installed in any housing having a housing seal surface (non-corrugated or non-convex) configured to accommodate a cartridge having a correctly sized elliptical (racetrack-type) seal shape, for example, with opposing sides 509, 510, end 508, and a corresponding racetrack shape (hypothetical elliptical shape) of hypothetical end 510z. This is facilitated in part by the termination of convex portion 512 of surface 510x against hypothetical standard shape seal line portion 510z.

[0276] Therefore, if an air cleaning device has a correctly sized, non-convex or non-corrugated housing seal surface configured to fully engage with the oval (racetrack shape) within the seal, a cartridge with the seal of FIG. 62 will fit properly and appear to be properly installed even though it may not be properly sealed by recess 511.

[0277] In this specification, when it is said that the housing sealing surface or a part of the housing sealing surface of the housing or structure of the air cleaning device to which the cartridge is sealed has a "non-wavy" or "non-convex / non-relief shape", this means that the part has no recesses or protrusions therein over a length in the range of, for example, at least 50 mm, typically at least 100 mm. In many cases, the structure or housing surface to which the sealing takes place does not have any protrusions or recesses over the entire length in the range. In this regard, an arc-shaped part of a structure in the housing, which may be, for example, the edge of an elliptical profile, should not be interpreted as a "recess" or "protrusion" per se. That is, what is intended to be meant is a localized protrusion or recess, for example, having a length between both ends of about 40 mm or less, usually much smaller than that.

[0278] Of course, this aspect of apparent sealing would not be an issue for the type of seal of Figure 62 if no such housing was present. It would primarily be an issue if the cartridge were sized to fit a cartridge that otherwise had a seal perimeter corresponding to the same hypothetical standard shape, but did not have the proper seal shape configured for sealing engagement with the housing.

[0279] In Fig. 63, an example of a similar potential problem is shown for a seal arrangement 482 of the type previously described in connection with Fig. 24. In particular, the seal arrangement 482 defines a seal perimeter 489s, which in this case is an outward radial seal, having two opposed semicircular end portions 1001, 1002 and two opposed sides 1003, 1004, each having a wavy or convex / concave seal portion (1003w, 1004w) therein. Here, the seal surface engagement profile of a hypothetical standard shape (ellipse, racetrack type) includes a racetrack type ellipse with opposed curved ends 1002, 1001 and opposed straight portions 1006, 1007, which in this example abut the curved ends 1002, 1001. Again, if the resulting cartridge happens to be the same size as a cartridge that does not have sealing face portions 1003, 1004 and has a sealing face perimeter defined according to a hypothetical standard geometric (elliptical) seal face engagement perimeter (and is configured to fit into a housing designed for such a cartridge), then a cartridge having a seal according to Fig. 63 may appear to be sealed by recess 1010r when in fact it is not, in part because outward protrusion 1010p extends tangent to opposing straight sides 1006, 1007 of the hypothetical standard shaped (elliptical) seal face engagement perimeter.

[0280] Again, apparent sealing is essentially a matter of what happens if there is a housing with a sealing surface configured to properly receive in a sealed state a cartridge having such a racetrack shaped elliptical radial sealing surface but without corrugations or convex / concave portions.

[0281] Thus far, the exemplary hypothetical standard perimeter seal perimeter mentioned in this section is an ellipse, in this case a racetrack shape, see Figures 62 and 63. Alternatives are possible. For example, a similar problem would arise if the hypothetical standard perimeter shape were an ellipse having a first pair of narrowly curved ends and opposing outwardly curved sides extending therebetween; one example of such a shape is an oval. Of course, further hypothetical standard perimeter shapes are possible, another example being a circle.

[0282] In FIG. 64, a hypothetical standard geometric seal perimeter is shown having a generally polygonal, e.g., rectangular, perimeter shape (with rounded corners, i.e., apexes). The exemplary seal face 1020 is a radially outwardly facing seal face, but similar principles can be applied to an inwardly facing seal face. The seal face 1020 can be said to define a hypothetical rectangular seal face engagement defined by radially outwardly facing seal face portions 1022, 1023 and hypothetical opposing side segments 1024, 1025. Again, the problem described in this section is exacerbated by the presence of recesses 1029 and the tangential alignment of hypothetical side portions 1024, 1025 with protrusions 1028.

[0283] Again, problems can arise in the presence of a housing designed to be radially engaged by a seal having a hypothetical rectangular seal face profile as shown. Without such a housing, an unsealed, phantom fit is less likely to occur.

[0284] In FIG. 65, a schematic cross-sectional view is shown depicting a portion 1039 of a housing seal (structure) having a sealing surface for an outward radial seal. The housing seal surface is shown at 1040. It should be understood that the sealing surface 1040 does not include undulations or corrugations (convex / concave portions) for proper radial engagement with the cartridge housing seal surface. Rather, it refers to a generally regular shaped surface that takes the form of a standard non-corrugated (or non-convex / concave) sealing surface of the cartridge radial seal that will engage with it. In this particular example, the sealing surface 1040 is designed to surround the cartridge seal surface, so that the cartridge seal will seal radially outward.

[0285] In Fig. 66, the same housing seal surface portion 1040 is shown (schematically) with a seal 1041 portion of a cartridge having a seal surface 1045 engaged therewith, with a corrugated or convex / concave seal portion 1045 shown where engagement is shown to have occurred. As can be seen, the cartridge appears to be installed, yet it is understood that there may be recesses in the seal surface such that actual sealing does not occur.

[0286] 66, note area 1046. This area indicates where the seal support (e.g., a pre-molded plastic support) resides on the cartridge and radially supports the seal. In FIG. 66, the seal arrangement is shown diagrammatically and only the molded-in-place seal portion is shown.

[0287] It is also noted that in the examples shown in Figures 62-66, the seals involved were radially outwardly facing. Similar principles / problems can be applied to radially inwardly facing seals and to hypothetical standard shaped seal perimeters defined along the radially inner or inwardly facing surface of the seal (e.g., bordered by corrugations or convex / concave portions).

[0288] It is noted that the problems characterized in this section are exacerbated when the structural surfaces of the housing that sealingly engage the cartridge are located deep within the housing and are not visible to the servicer during installation of the cartridge, which is however true of many air cleaning device assemblies.

[0289] B. Further regarding the concept of "hypothetical standard shape seal perimeter" The term "hypothetical standard shape seal perimeter" and variations thereof, as used herein, means a hypothetical shape that does not have any convex, concave, or undulating portions therein, but rather corresponds to a perimeter shape generally defined by non-undulating (non-wavy or non-convex / concave) portions of a corresponding seal surface, and in some instances having straight or arcuate lines extending therebetween, such as "wavy," "undulating," or convex / concave peripheral seal portions found on actual seal surfaces. As previously mentioned, such "hypothetical standard shape seal perimeters" are often elliptical, and in some instances racetrack-shaped, polygonal (e.g., rectangular), or circular. However, alternatives are possible.

[0290] It is not specifically required that the hypothetical line section be tangent to the convex portion of the convex / concave portion in the cartridge, however an example of such a tangent relationship in an outward radial seal is provided in Figures 62-64 to provide an understanding of potential problems that may appear to fit into a housing designed to receive a standard seal.

[0291] It is noted that the seal perimeter of a hypothetical standard shape is typically defined by collinear or coextensive lines having portions of the seal shape that are not convex / concave portions and a corresponding furthest convex portion of the seal (in the direction of engagement with the sealing surface during use). That is, the hypothetical perimeter is typically defined by the seal shape that corresponds to the non-concave portion of the seal surface that is most compressed during sealing.

[0292] There is no specific requirement that the non-convex / concave portions of the actual seal perimeter that define the hypothetical standard seal perimeter be continuous over their entire extent. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 63, there are two such portions (ends of a semicircle) that are separated from each other by a convex / concave portion. There is also no specific requirement that the seal portions of the hypothetical standard shape be defined by any particular amount of coexistence. However, typically the hypothetical shapes, whether one continuous portion or several portions grouped together, will be collinear (coextensive) over at least 20% of the extent of the seal face, often at least 30%, and usually at least 40%.

[0293] C. First Solution to the Apparent Sealing Problem: If possible, do not provide an air cleaning device enclosure large enough for the apparent sealing to occur. Of course, as noted above, the primary solution to the types of problems discussed above is to have no existing housing or other structure that is appropriately sized (but does not have a suitable corrugated or convex / concave housing sealing portion) and therefore cannot receive the cartridge due to the problems generally cited in the previous paragraph, i.e., apparent fitment problems without actually being sealed.

[0294] This solution may be effective whether the radial seal is radially inward or outward, and although the above example illustrates the principle with respect to an outward facing seal, it is also applicable to an inward facing seal as described above.

[0295] However, in some instances, it may not be practical to address the problem in this manner. For example, an OEM may have determined in advance the size, shape, and location of a particular housing that must be replicated in a new housing product. Also, it may be desirable to provide a new cartridge that can be manufactured with only minor modifications to existing cartridge or housing manufacturing.

[0296] D. A second solution to the apparent sealing problem: providing a cartridge having a second convex / concave housing radial seal portion that properly axially overlaps and is adjacent to a convex / concave (corrugated) cartridge housing seal face portion, the second seal portion being sized and positioned to seal against a corresponding non-convex / concave (non-corrugated) housing seal face portion of the housing. In such a situation, the second method can be understood by considering FIGS. 67-70A, particularly with certain prior art air cleaning device housing sealing surface contours.

[0297] Referring to FIG. 67, a filter cartridge 1050 is shown having a sealing device 1051 positioned over a filter media pack 1050m. The illustrated sealing device 1051 includes a radially outwardly directed sealing device. The exemplary sealing device 1051 is shown as defining a hypothetical standard shaped sealing perimeter having an elliptical, in this particular example, racetrack-shaped, shape, although alternatives are possible. The actual sealing surface 1051 has opposing straight sides 1052, 1053 with opposing curved ends 1054, 1055, each of which is arcuate and has an undulating, corrugated, or convex / concave configuration of protrusions 1056 and recesses 1057. In this example, the sealing surface defined by the straight portions 1051, 1052 and the convex / concave (scalloped) portions 1054, 1055 comprises a primary or first outward radial seal (or sealing portion) that engages with a housing surface of suitable shape (surrounding it). The problem is then to provide a cartridge having a sealing device that can properly seal even when the housing sealing surface of the housing is not contoured or corrugated, but rather is configured to properly seal with a standard seal around a hypothetical standard shape seal. This solution is included by providing one or more second (or secondary) radial sealing surface portions or portions that are axially aligned with the contoured portions 1054, 1055. An example of this can be seen in FIG. 67 by the non-convex / concave secondary sealing portions 1060, 1060a.

[0298] The secondary seal portion 1060 can be seen in enlarged view in the schematic view of FIG. 67A.

[0299] The secondary seal surface portion 1060 in the illustrated example is not convex / concave (wavy) but has a more standard shape to facilitate sealing. It is an extension that engages the side portions 1052, 1051 at the transition (radial seal) portion, see for example transition portion 1065 in FIG. 67A.

[0300] As will become clear below, the example of FIG. 67A does not necessarily mean that the shape of the second seal portion 1060 is not convex / concave. In fact, it may have a relatively small convexity and / or concavity therein. Nor does it necessarily mean that a hypothetical standard-shaped seal to which it fits would be in contact with the various convexities 1056. In fact, in the example shown, the secondary or second seal portion 1060 is not particularly in contact, but recessed inward from the convexities 1056. However, in this example, portion 1060 is not recessed as much as recessed 1057. What is important is that it (surface portion 1060) can radially engage with a standard (non-corrugated) seal surface structure of, for example, a housing, regardless of the concavity of portion 1054, and leakage is not an issue.

[0301] In Fig. 67B, a schematic partial cross-sectional view is shown taken along line 67B-67B of Fig. 67A between two of the protrusions 1056. A support 1070 for the seal is shown, which comprises a portion of the preform. A portion of the second face portion 1060 is visible.

[0302] In FIG. 68, a schematic partial cross-sectional view is shown showing a portion of a seal device generally shaped according to seal device 1050 of FIG. 67, e.g., a seal device without a contoured surface, mounted in a "standard" housing having a sealing surface with which a standard shaped seal would engage.

[0303] Referring to Fig. 68, a housing seal face generally in accordance with Fig. 66 is shown at 1040. Seal protrusions 1056 are shown overlapping to show where compression occurs. A secondary seal protrusion is shown at 1060. It can be seen that a proper seal occurs around the entire circumference of the cartridge seal because face 1060 is positioned in a position where it can provide sealing to a portion of face 1040 as a secondary seal portion.

[0304] It should be understood that Fig. 68 illustrates diagrammatically the principles involved in the use of secondary sealing surface portion 1060. This is not intended to imply that the components shown are to be constructed to their exact dimensions when they are to be used together.

[0305] As previously mentioned, the secondary sealing surface does not necessarily have to be provided completely smooth and unrelieved (non-corrugated or non-ridged). It may include projections and / or depressions therein that are small enough so as not to interfere with sealing with the desired (non-corrugated or non-ridged) surface of the housing sealing portion. An example of this can be seen in Figures 69A and 69B.

[0306] Referring to FIG. 69A, a partial view of a cartridge 1080 is shown, which includes a filter media pack 1081 having a sealing device 1082 thereon. The portion of the figure is generally similar to the portion shown in FIG. 67A, and the convex / concave profile is provided by a convex portion 1083 and a concave portion 1084 positioned on (around) a curved end 1085 of the sealing device 1082. At 1087, a secondary sealing portion is shown. This secondary sealing portion is axially positioned with respect to the convex portion 1083 and the concave portion 1084, i.e., it extends around the same curved end 1085, and has a portion 1087a therein that protrudes slightly outward. Otherwise, the shape of the portion 1087 corresponds to a standard, non-convex / concave shape. It is intended that the protrusion of the portion 1087a is shallow enough so that they still adequately compress and seal to a housing sealing surface of a housing having a suitable shape and size, but non-convex / concave (non-corrugated) surface profile. Thus, face portion 1087 includes a portion that is axially positioned relative to the contoured portion of sealing surface 1082, thereby providing the desired sealing when cartridge 1080 is installed in an incorrect housing.

[0307] In Figure 69B, a cross-sectional view is shown along line 69B-69B of Figure 69A for ease of understanding. Note seal support 1088.

[0308] In Figures 69C and 69D, another example of a device having a secondary sealing surface portion for sealing to a housing sealing surface configured for a standard shape seal is shown.

[0309] 69C, a cartridge 1090 is shown in a schematic fragmentary view, including a filter media 1091 with a housing seal arrangement 1092 thereon. The housing seal arrangement 1092 in this example generally includes a radially outward seal having a configuration generally according to a standard racetrack shaped elliptical profile, except that it has a convex / concave profile at one or both curved ends. In the illustrated example, such a profile is shown at 1093 and includes a convex portion 1094 and a concave portion 1095.

[0310] Here, the secondary sealing surface portion is shown at 1097 and in this example generally does not have any protrusions / depressions or relief contours therein, see for example area 1098, which is defined to axially overlap (suitably) with the standard shaped portion of sealing surface 1092, which helps ensure sealing when cartridge 1090 is installed in an incorrect housing.

[0311] In Fig. 69D, a schematic cross-sectional view is shown generally along line 69D-69D of Fig. 69. Note seal support 1099.

[0312] From the above, it can be seen that a variety of secondary sealing portions can be provided, the main problem being to ensure that such portions are provided so as to axially overlap the convex / concave sealing portions in a position such that they can engage a standard housing sealing surface if the cartridge is accidentally installed in a housing having such a surface.

[0313] In more general terms, then, it can be seen that the solution to the problem of a cartridge with a corrugated, undulating, or convex / concave sealing portion in a primary sealing surface appearing to be properly installed and sealed to a housing sealing surface (structure) that does not have a corrugated, undulating, or convex / concave sealing surface is to provide a cartridge with a secondary sealing surface or surface portion that axially overlaps the corrugated or undulating (convex / concave) portion of the seal portion. "Axially overlapping" in this regard does not necessarily mean that it is only axially aligned with the corrugated or undulating (convex / concave) portion throughout its extent. It can be throughout the entire circumference of the cartridge. However, if the cartridge includes a non-corrugated sealing portion, it can simply transition to (or be aligned with) these, as shown and described.

[0314] The terms "axially overlapping" or "axially aligned" in this regard shall mean the location of the seal and cartridge along a length dimension generally perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the seal. In typical configurations such as those shown in the figures, including configurations in which the media pack has opposing inlet and outlet ends or media ends, the secondary sealing surface portion is typically located between the first sealing surface portion (or primary sealing surface portion) and the media or media pack in an undulating corrugated position, or at least in a direction toward the opposite (remote) end of the media or media pack.

[0315] 67-69B can be characterized as creating a unique radial seal configuration in which the first seal portion (in this example, the primary seal portion having the "corrugated" portion therein) has a "maximum cross-sectional dimension" that is greater than the maximum cross-sectional dimension of the seal perimeter that would be defined by the second seal surface portion (i.e., the non-corrugated portion). Typically, the difference in these maximum cross-sectional dimensions will be at least 1 mm, usually at least 2 mm, often at least 3 mm, and in some instances 4 mm or more.

[0316] The first sealing portion then typically includes at least one portion that extends in the sealing direction at least 1 mm farther, usually at least 2 mm farther, and often 3 mm or more farther, in the sealing direction than an axially adjacent portion of the second radial sealing portion.

[0317] It is noted that whether the first seal portion is a corrugated portion or not, this is an uncommon configuration: typically, the radial seal tapers in size downward toward the tip away from the filter media, rather than downward toward the filter media (or toward the far end of the filter media or media pack) in a direction away from the seal tip.

[0318] Reference herein to "first" and "second" seal portions or sections in this regard is not intended to imply that the entire first and second seals are separate from one another towards their entire extent. As shown in the examples, a portion of the second seal can extend over the same extent as a portion of the first seal, e.g., in a non-corrugated or non-convex / concave portion. Spaced axial alignment is intended to specifically refer to the portion of the second seal portion associated with or adjacent to the corrugations or convex / concave portions of the first seal.

[0319] E. Special housing configurations for convex / concave profile seals that make standard seals or standard seal parts sealing impossible, Figs. 70 and 70A In some instances, it may be desirable to provide a housing or other structure with a sealing surface that is configured so as not to readily accept a standard cartridge, the principles of which can be understood from the discussion above and Figures 70 and 70A.

[0320] 70, a schematic diagram is provided showing a housing portion 1100. Although not shown in detail in this figure, face portion 1101, which will be the housing sealing face portion, is configured with a (corrugated) or convex / concave seal portion for engaging with an appropriate (corrugated) or convex / concave cartridge seal surface such as those described above with respect to Figs. 67-67B. Unlike the configuration of Fig. 68, the particular housing portion 1101 shown in Fig. 70 includes an exterior recess at 1105 that does not sealingly engage with any secondary seal protrusions similar to protrusion 1060 of Fig. 67 or as found in standard shaped seals.

[0321] With reference to Fig. 70A, this is illustrated with the housing seal arrangement 1051 attached to the housing portion 1100 similar to Fig. 68. Here, the protrusion 1060 is shown in the recess 1105 but is not sealed therein. The seal protrusion arrangement 1056 is assumed to engage with an associated undulating (corrugated or convex / concave) portion of the housing portion 1100.

[0322] F. Third Solution - Providing a sealing face with an obstructing protrusion configuration Another way to prevent a cartridge from appearing to be properly installed in a housing that can accept a cartridge corresponding to a hypothetical standard seal perimeter geometry is to ensure that there is a blocking protrusion feature in or on the seal. The term "blocking protrusion feature" refers to one or more protruding areas in the seal face that extend sufficiently to block an attempt to install in an incorrect housing. This can be, for example, one or more exaggerated protrusions in a convex / concave seal portion, but can also be one or more protrusions provided elsewhere on the seal face. This can be provided in a supported portion of the seal face or in a portion that is not specifically supported for the blocking protrusion feature, if desired.

[0323] The amount of protrusion from the seal perimeter of any nominal geometry (outward if a radially directed seal is involved, inward if a radially inward seal is involved) sufficient to provide interference may vary depending on a variety of factors including the material of the seal arrangement, the size of the cartridge, etc. In general, what is needed is enough protrusion to ensure that an individual attempting to install it will realize that the cartridge is not correct for the housing in which the effort is being made to install it. In some instances, as little as one millimeter of protrusion may be sufficient. In typical instances, it may be desirable to provide at least 2 mm, and often at least 4 mm, of interference protrusion.

[0324] An example of such a configuration is described below.

[0325] Of course, the mating sealing surface in the housing into which the cartridge is to be mounted preferably has a suitable receiving recess configuration for the obstructing protrusion configuration in a manner that does not interfere with sealing between the cartridge and that surface.

[0326] It has already been indicated herein that the protrusion arrangement may be in a particularly locally supported portion of the sealing face. By this it is meant that the seal support located in the sealing material may, if desired, include a protrusion thereon that is specifically aligned with and corresponds to the obstruction protrusion arrangement. On the other hand, the protrusion arrangement in the sealing face may be located in a portion such that the seal support below the sealing material is not altered from its configuration in order to otherwise support the sealing device. This latter is sometimes said to be "not specifically locally supported for the obstruction protrusion" arrangement, although of course this is not meant to imply that there is necessarily no support for the seal at this location.

[0327] VIII. Some Selected Seal Modifications and Related Principles, Figs. 71-83 A. First exemplary type, Figs. 71-73 As generally set forth herein, it is important that a cartridge for an air freshener housing be constructed so that it can be easily and properly installed and sealed into the correct housing for which it is intended. It is also particularly important, if possible, that the air freshener system be constructed so that an inappropriate, non-compliant cartridge cannot be easily installed and does not appear to be sealed. In general, the principles discussed above with respect to configurations having convex / concave contours therein can be used to facilitate the design of cartridges that meet these criteria. Some additional variations and principles can be seen from the examples of Figures 71-73.

[0328] In FIG. 71, a schematic diagram of a portion of a cartridge housing seal arrangement including a convex / concave profile is shown.

[0329] The sketch in Figure 71 is schematic and is intended to show a convex / concave (wavy) seal portion on a curved (arcuate) end of a cartridge with a radially outwardly facing sealing surface. The cartridge could otherwise have a standard racetrack type hypothetical sealing surface, although alternatives are possible.

[0330] The principles described in relation to Figure 71 are applicable to alternatively shaped seals and alternatively oriented sealing surfaces, as will be appreciated below.

[0331] With reference to FIG. 71, it will be seen that the configuration shown includes a convex / concave or wavy profile, for example, convex portions 1201, relatively deep concave portions 1202 between the convex portions 1201, and relatively shallow (optional) convex portions 1204 between the end convex portions 1201o of the three convex portions 1201 and the corresponding adjacent non-wavy or convex / concave portion 1205 of the seal periphery.

[0332] In general terms as used herein, line 1210 includes a hypothetical elliptical (racetrack) shaped seal perimeter with undulating wavy or convex / concave 1215 extending along a curved (arcuate) perimeter portion. Portion 1215 includes convex portion 1201, which does not extend to a tangent to perimeter 1210, but extends radially (outward) across perimeter 1210 in the sealing direction. Additionally, various concave portions 1202, 1204 extend radially inward from the hypothetical perimeter 1210. Thus, portion 1215 of seal 1210 including convex / concave or wavy portions includes one or more portions that extend across (i.e., to either side of) hypothetical standard shaped (racetrack) seal perimeter line 1210.

[0333] Typically, and preferably, in the direction extending toward the mating housing sealing surface (sealing direction), at least a selected portion of the seal extends (away) from the seal perimeter 1210 of a hypothetical standard geometric shape by at least 1 mm, typically at least 2 mm, often at least 2.5 mm, and in some instances at least 3 mm.

[0334] 71 is configured as a radially outward seal, it includes a tip of protrusion 1201, which is shown as extending beyond (through) line 1120. The dimension corresponding to this extension, for the illustrated example, is dimension EE.

[0335] Typically, at least a selected portion of the protrusion 1201 sealing surface extending beyond line 1210 extends (opposite the sealing direction) at least 1 mm, often at least 2 mm, and typically 3-8 mm from line 1210. An example is shown by the dimension ED for recess 1202.

[0336] In this example, the relatively shallow end recess or recessed portion 1204 still extends inside (or across) the hypothetical line 1210 by a distance that is typically at least 0.5 mm, usually at least 1 mm.

[0337] Some exemplary useful dimensions can be seen from the following: EA = 107.4mm diameter, EB = 118.2mm diameter, EC = at least 5mm, e.g. 5-15mm, e.g. 9.3mm, ED = at least 2, e.g. 2-8mm, e.g. 5.4mm, EE = 3.9mm, EF = 4mm radius, EG = 11mm radius, EH = 6mm radius, EI = 10mm radius, EJ = 42°. Of course, these are only examples and alternatives are possible.

[0338] It is noted that the relatively shallow end recess 1204 facilitates fitting the cartridge into its intended housing.

[0339] Of course, if the seal were configured radially inward, the seal protrusions 1201 would be oriented radially inward in the sealing direction, and the seal recesses 1202, 1204 would be oriented (oppositely) radially outward.

[0340] An advantage provided by such a configuration is that it becomes more difficult to position a cartridge in a housing that is not suitable for that housing if the housing is similarly configured for such a sealing surface. Furthermore, because the extent of the protrusion 1201 in the sealing direction is well beyond the seal perimeter 1210 of a hypothetical standard geometry, the protrusion 1201 is likely to interfere with mounting to a housing portion that is configured to mate with such a seal. That is, the protrusion 1201 includes an obstructing protrusion configuration of the type described above.

[0341] The principles described with respect to Fig. 71 can also be applied to various alternative sealing arrangements. In Fig. 72, the projections / recesses do not extend along a curve, i.e., are not arcuate, but are straight, non-curved portions of the seal, similar to portion 1024 of Fig. 64, for example. Here, it can be seen that the perimeter line of the hypothetical standard shape is straight, as shown at 1230, projections 1231 extend radially outward, i.e., beyond that line 1230, in the sealing direction, and recesses 1232 extend radially inward from that line (i.e., in the opposite direction to sealing). It is noted that the ends of recesses 1232 can be somewhat shallower compared to the configuration of Fig. 71, if desired.

[0342] Similar dimensions can be used as described above with respect to Figure 71. In the example shown in Figure 72, some examples are provided as follows: EO = 9.3 mm, EN = 6.4 mm, EM = at least 2 mm, e.g., 2-7 mm.

[0343] In Fig. 73, the same as Fig. 72 is shown, except that the radial seal is directed radially inward, with a hypothetical straight line segment shown at 1240, with protrusion 1241 extending radially inward across that line in the sealing direction, and recess 1242 extending radially outward away from that line. Thus, the configuration of Fig. 73 is the same as Fig. 72, except inverted with an inward seal rather than an outward seal. Some example dimensions provided in the example of Fig. 72 are as follows: ET=3mm, ES=6.4mm, ER=at least 2mm, e.g., 2-7mm.

[0344] In general terms, the configurations according to Figures 71-73 can be understood to provide a general principle that in some instances it may be desirable to provide a convex / concave surface that extends beyond (i.e., to a position on either side of) a standard hypothetical seal contour, either to a convex on one side or to a concave on the other side. Typically, when such configurations are used, at least one of the convexities (and typically a selected plurality) extends from the hypothetical seal contour by at least 1 mm, usually at least 2 mm. Often, the selected convexity extends beyond the hypothetical seal contour line by at least 3 mm, sometimes at least 4 mm (e.g., 3-9 mm). At least one of the concaves (e.g., an end concave) often extends at least 0.5 mm. Often, at least one concave ends at least 1 mm, typically 3-8 mm beyond that line, and at least the deepest concave is used.

[0345] It will also be appreciated that in such instances, if desired, and in relevant instances, there will be a maximum "tip" amplitude of the convexity of at least 4 mm, often at least 5 mm, typically at least 6 mm, and sometimes at least 8 mm, throughout the extent of extension, with respect to the deepest recess on at least one side thereof (the side of interest). Such a minimum amplitude can be provided on both sides of the convexity as desired, although the amount or amplitude of extension between the two sides can also be unequal, as illustrated by the convexity at the end of the configuration in FIG.

[0346] B. "Custom" seal contour, Figs. 74-76 As generally described, it is desirable to provide an air cleaning device configuration that is designed to receive only genuine or approved proper cartridges for the associated air cleaning device assembly and device. In some instances, an OEM vehicle or device manufacturer may wish to have a preferred "custom" or "genuine" cartridge for an otherwise fairly standard air cleaning device package. "Custom" in this context means that the manufacturer of the vehicle or other device in which the air cleaning device is used may prefer cartridges that can only be properly sealed to the housing of the installed air cleaning device. For example, the manufacturer of the vehicle or other device in which the air cleaning device is used may prefer only genuine cartridges that meet certain minimum filtration performance characteristics (e.g., efficiency, pressure drop, dust concentration, or filter life, etc.).

[0347] The techniques described herein can be applied in a very straightforward manner to such custom applications, an example of which can be seen from the following description of Figures 74-77.

[0348] 74, a cartridge seal perimeter is shown generally at 1260. The seal perimeter 1260 is a modified racetrack-type ellipse having opposite straight sides or side portions 1261, 1262 and opposite curved (arcuate) ends (or portions) 1263, 1264. Ends 1263 are shown in the illustrative example to be configured with a convex / concave or wavy profile generally similar to that shown generally in FIG.

[0349] On the other hand, end 1264 is configured to provide a custom portion to what may have originally been a more widely used standard configuration. For purposes of discussion herein, it is assumed that the more widely used configuration has end 1264 that is semicircular and has no convex or concave contours therein. The custom configuration shown in FIG. 74 includes a variation from this end at 1264, and specifically includes protrusion 1168. The protrusion is large enough to prevent the cartridge from being installed in a housing configured for the provided "standard" contour, and therefore may be an obstructing protrusion configuration. A customer may be provided with a housing configured with a recess that properly receives seal 1260 having the contour of 1268, and therefore the cartridge will only properly seal to that housing.

[0350] The protrusion 1268 may have a corresponding localized seal support protrusion therein, or may be shaped to overlap a seal support having a curve generally corresponding to the edge 1264 without providing special support for the protrusion 1268. Either approach may be used.

[0351] Using these principles, various alternatives can be implemented. One example is shown at 1270 in FIG. 75. Again, this example is a racetrack type configuration, with opposing straight sides 1271, 1272, a first convex / concave end 1273, and an opposing curved end 1275 profile that includes, in this example, three protrusions 1278. Even though the cartridge is otherwise the same as cartridge 1260 in FIG. 74, the housing provides a custom configuration as compared to configuration 1260 in FIG. 74, as long as the housing is shaped to engage the protrusions 1278, none of which align with protrusions 1268 in FIG. 74.

[0352] 75, it is noted that the ends of the seal perimeter at 1275 correspond to curved ends having a convex / concave profile with protrusions 1278 and selected recesses 1279 therebetween. It is noted that the recesses 1279 are not curved inwardly, but rather have a slight outward (in the sealing direction) bowed shape in this example, with the bowed portion aligning with the hypothetical seal perimeter.

[0353] It is also noted that in FIG. 75, the convex / concave profile at end 1273 is generally similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 71, although alternatives are possible.

[0354] A variation of these principles is shown in Fig. 76 for a seal face 1280. Again, the figure relates to a racetrack type seal having opposing straight sides 1281, 1282 and opposing curved ends 1283, 1284, where the opposing ends 1183, 1184 are mirror images of each other, each including a convex / concave (or wavy) profile in this example generally in accordance with Fig. 76. The configuration of Fig. 76 further illustrates another way in which custom design of the seal face can be provided.

[0355] While the examples and principles discussed in connection with Figures 74-76 have been shown with respect to racetrack shaped seals, they may be used in a variety of other contexts including, for example, polygonal (e.g. rectangular) seals, alternatively oval seals, circular seals, or seals in which the convex / concave profile is on the otherwise straight portions rather than the curved portions. Also, the convex / concave profile may be provided on both arcuate and otherwise straight portions of the same seal. This principle may, of course, be applied in radially outwardly directed seals as well as radially inwardly directed seals.

[0356] C. Convex and / or concave deformations, Figs. 77-83A In the examples illustrated so far in this specification, many of the "convex" and / or "concave" portions of the various seal profiles are generally smooth arcuate curved shapes with a single transition point between them, i.e., where the concave of one arc changes to the convex arc of the adjacent arc. However, the terms "convex / concave," "wave-like," or "undulating," and variations thereof, as used herein, with respect to cartridge seal faces, are not intended to imply that the shapes referred to are necessarily smooth curves throughout the seal portion profile. Indeed, these terms are intended to include various and other variations from smooth curves. Some examples can be seen from the discussion in this section with respect to Figures 77-83A.

[0357] Referring first to Fig. 77, which is an attempt to diagrammatically illustrate a seal protrusion that is not defined by a smooth curved region. Referring to Fig. 77, a portion of a seal face is shown diagrammatically at 1500, which is an attempt to illustrate a portion of the seal face facing outwardly in the direction of double arrow 1501, where the sealing force encircles the housing seal. Thus, within the illustrated seal face portion 1500 is a protrusion 1505 bounded on either side by adjacent recesses 1506.

[0358] The protrusion 1505 is shaped to be characterized herein as a "segmented" protrusion. That is, the protruding shape includes a plurality of segments 1505s. In this example, the segments 1505s are each straight or nearly straight, although alternatives are possible. The segments can be, for example, slightly bowed outward or slightly bowed inward (or can be different from one another), and the end protrusions 1505 can still be shaped to act appropriately as protrusions in a sealing surface that engages with a suitably contoured housing sealing surface, including even those designed to receive corresponding smoothly curved protrusions. That is, the housing sealing surface portion of the surrounding housing does not necessarily have to have a segmented seal engagement surface, provided that the segments 1505s are sized and positioned to fit into a more smoothly curved contoured housing sealing surface, and the seal material is sufficiently compressible to do so.

[0359] In the example of Fig. 77, the recesses 1506 are shown as not being segmented. However, they can generally be made segmented according to the principles described above. This principle also applies to the case where only the recesses are segmented, with the convexity of a smooth arcuate curve.

[0360] It is also noted that in the example of Figure 77, the recesses 1506 are shown to be symmetrical, i.e., having the same size and shape. Alternatives are possible, including the type described above in connection with Figures 71-73.

[0361] Furthermore, if the convex and / or concave have a segmented shape, there is no special requirement that all convex / concave within the same sealing surface must have a segmented contour, or that the segmented contours be the same if more than segmented convex and / or concave are provided. In general, all that is required is that the convex / concave shape used be sufficient to properly engage within the housing sealing surface it is sealing against.

[0362] The intent of this portion of the description is that even if the housing sealing surface is configured with a smooth curve, the cartridge sealing surface configured to engage that sealing surface portion may be defined as segmented or with other alternatives than a smooth curve, provided that the variant is small enough to allow compression to produce the necessary conformity for good sealing. Thus, this section is intended to show that the terms "convex," "concave," "wavy," and variants thereof, as used herein, do not only suggest smooth curved surfaces, but may have contours of different shapes therefrom.

[0363] Still referring to Figure 79, it is noted that certain truncated portions 1525s of the figure create symmetric sides relative to corresponding protrusions 1525. Alternatives are possible.

[0364] In Fig. 78, similar to Fig. 77 is shown and the intent is to show a similar understanding of radially inward sealing. In part, sealing surface 1510 is intended to seal in the direction of arrow 1511 to the portion of the housing that sealing surface 1510 surrounds, i.e., surface 1510 is oriented for radially inward sealing. Here, radially inward protrusions 1515 are shown having a segmented profile according to profile 1505 of Fig. 77 between recesses 1516. The same types of segment variations, segment shapes, number of segmented protrusions or recesses, etc. discussed above in relation to Fig. 77 are also applicable to the configuration of Fig. 78.

[0365] Other variations of convex or concave shapes can be "single" truncated contours versus having multiple segments. An example is shown in Figure 79.

[0366] Referring to FIG. 79, the sealing surface is shown at 1520. In this example, this is a portion of a surface that extends over an arc, such as the end of a racetrack seal in nature. This is the outwardly facing sealing surface 1520 that is configured to seal with the perimeter of the housing. In addition to the protrusions 1525, recesses 1526 are shown. Here, the protrusions 1525 are truncated by straight segments in this example. That is, the smooth arcuate curve to each of the protrusions 1525 is truncated or cut off by the segments 1525. In this example, the segments 1525 are straight, but they could be provided with alternative profiles, such as slightly bowed outward or slightly bowed inward. In general, all that is required is that the truncations 1525 are sized and positioned such that they will also seal against housing surfaces configured for otherwise fully arcuate protrusions.

[0367] 79, it is noted that the truncated portions are generally selected to be symmetrical between the two sides of the protrusion on which they are positioned. Alternatives are possible and are intended to be included within the meaning of "truncated" and variations thereof as used herein.

[0368] Of course, similar principles may additionally or alternatively be applied to recess 526 .

[0369] A variety of specific protrusion shapes can be used within the same sealing surface, as can a variety of recess shapes.

[0370] The principles described with respect to Fig. 79 can also be used in configurations adapted for radially inward sealing. An example of such a configuration is shown in Fig. 80, sealing face 1530, which is intended to show diagrammatically a cartridge sealing face adapted to surround a portion of a housing during sealing. The inwardly directed protrusions 1535 are shown as truncated with non-truncated recesses 1536 therebetween. Again, variations on the principles described above with respect to face 1520 can be applied.

[0371] It is also noted that the truncations may be provided in the recessed portions 1536 rather than the protruding portions 1535, or in both.

[0372] A variation is shown in Figure 81, which is an outwardly facing sealing surface 1540 having a truncated protrusion 1545 and recess 1546, the recess 1546 itself having a slight outwardly bowed shape. Again, such a configuration can be sealed to a housing surface configured as a regular outwardly curving protrusion with an inwardly curving recess between them, provided that the truncated portion 1545 and recess 1546 are of appropriate size and shape, and the seal material is sufficiently compressible and deformable.

[0373] In FIG. 82, a similar variation for the inward facing seal is shown at 1550 and has an inwardly bowed shape at inward projection 1555 and recess 1556 .

[0374] In Figs. 83 and 83A, another possible variation of the convex / concave or corrugated seal profile is shown. In Fig. 83, sealing surface 1570 is shown. The sealing surface is to be understood to be a cartridge seal surface facing in the direction of arrow 1571, i.e. radially outward, and including spaced apart convex portions 1575 and concave portions 1576. Here, convex portions 1575 are shaped with lateral cutouts or depressions generally indicated at 1580. In this example, each convex portion 1575 has a pair of mutually opposed cutouts 1580, although alternatives are possible. Surfaces such as surface 1570 may be pressed into sealing engagement with housing seal surfaces configured for convex portions without a similar shape and without cutouts, provided the material is sufficiently compressible and the cutouts are appropriately sized. On the other hand, a protrusion such as protrusion 1575 can be configured to be pressed into a housing surface having a mating cutout portion such that protrusion 1575 snaps into place around a portion of the housing surface.

[0375] A variation is shown in Figure 83A where each particular protrusion 1590 has no cutout or depression on one side 1591 and does on one side 1592. The example of Figure 83A can otherwise be similar to the configuration of Figure 83.

[0376] The seal variations described above in this section are intended to illustrate various general principles. The main principle is that the terms "convex / concave", variations thereof, and / or terms such as "wavy" and "undulating" do not necessarily define a seal surface having a smooth curve throughout, unless otherwise specified. The surface may include segments, bows, cutouts, etc., and may be sized and shaped to fit into an appropriate housing utilizing the principles herein. In fact, in many cases, a seal surface that does not have a smooth curvature can even engage and seal with a housing or structural seal surface that has a smoothly curved, wavy (or convex / concave) portion, as long as the material is sufficiently compressible, and as long as deviations from a smooth curvature are kept relatively small.

[0377] IX. EXEMPLARY PRINCIPLES OF CONSTRUCTION AND MANUFACTURING OF AIR CLEANING DEVICE ASSEMBLY In Figures 84-86, schematic diagrams are provided to aid in understanding the manufacture of an exemplary air cleaner and cartridge using the principles described herein.

[0378] Referring first to Figure 84, a portion of an air cleaner assembly is shown at 1600. Portion 1600 is intended to be the portion of the air cleaner assembly that includes a housing seal surface 1601 for engagement with a seal surface on a cartridge, the cartridge seal surface being according to the general contours selected herein. The illustrated example is one in which housing portion 1600 is an outlet portion 1600x, with the filtered air flow exiting through outlet 1605.

[0379] The illustrated sealing surface 1601 is shaped and generally configured to sealingly receive the outward radial seal of a cartridge, otherwise having a racetrack-shaped hypothetical sealing surface, with opposing straight side portions 1610, 1611 and opposing curved end portions 1612, 1613. Each of portions 1612, 1613 includes a convex / concave, wavy, or undulating contoured portion, including three outward projections 1615 separated by inwardly projecting portions 1616. Of course, alternative shapes may be used.

[0380] It is noted that in this example, although portions 1615 are smooth and outwardly arcuate in convexity, they still do not necessarily have a matching smooth arcuate shape and may be sealed with a sealing surface that includes at least one segmented convex or concave portion, or includes an arched portion, truncated portion, etc., as described above, provided that these are sufficiently compressible in the sealing material and configured to engage surface portion 1615 appropriately to compress or deform to engage in a sealing state.

[0381] In general, it is often the case (and typically preferred) that the housing seal arrangement includes a "supported" seal. By this, it is meant that the sealing surface presses against a support structure. Typically, the support structure is provided by a preform portion of the cartridge, as shown in certain previous examples. In FIG. 85, a fragmented view of the preform housing seal support arrangement is shown (schematically) at 1620. The portion of the preform that backs the seal is generally shown at 1621. Curved portion 1622 and protrusion 1623 are shown in face 1621. When included in a cartridge having an appropriate shape, protrusion 1623 extends into (and supports) the protrusion in the sealing surface, and recess 1622 receives the recess in the sealing surface. This can be seen by reference to Figure 86, which shows a cartridge constructed with a preform 1620 of the kind described and illustrated, which is overmolded and held in place by molding material 1655 to provide an outwardly facing sealing surface 1656 sized to sealingly engage sealing surface 1601 of Figure 84. Of course, sealing surface 1656 could be provided with any of the variations discussed above.

[0382] It will be appreciated that several variations of the various convexities of the sealing surface 1656 can be provided without changing the specific shape of the support portion 1620. For example, truncated or segmented surfaces, etc., can be used on the same preform 1620. This can be an advantage in manufacturing, since it is not necessarily necessary for new shaped preforms 1620 to be fabricated for every possible sealing shape.

[0383] With reference to FIG. 85, it is noted that adjacent the tip, the protrusion 1623 can be characterized as having a maximum dimension across it near the tip, i.e., width Dx, and the various recesses 1622 can be characterized as having a maximum dimension across it, Dy / Dx being at least 2 (i.e., Dy is at least equal to 2×Dx), typically at least 3, and often 5 or more. That is, the protrusion 1623 is relatively narrow and the recess 1612 is relatively wide. Notwithstanding this, in the resulting seal surface of FIG. 86, the protrusion is relatively wide and the recess is relatively narrow. This also illustrates that the support protrusion 1623 is not necessarily the same shape as the resulting seal protrusion, which will be determined by the mold. Rather, the protrusion 1623 needs to be positioned to appropriately resist the desired amount of compression of the seal surface in the protrusion area.

[0384] In the exemplary cartridge of Fig. 86, the media pack 1650m is shown diagrammatically and truncated. The media pack is configured for linear flow and may, for example, include a rolled arrangement of fluted material secured to a liner material, as previously described. Of course, alternatives are possible.

[0385] X. Application of the principles of nonlinear flow configuration In the examples illustrated hereinbefore, the media packs are generally configured for linear flow, with opposing inlet and outlet faces aligned with the direction of airflow through the area enclosed by the sealing faces (whether the sealing is radially inward or outward). However, the principles described can also be applied to media packs having media surrounding an open interior. This example can be seen by reference to FIG.

[0386] In Fig. 87, a cartridge 1700 is shown that includes a filter media 1701 that surrounds a cartridge interior 1702. The filter media can be, for example, pleated, although this is not specifically required. The filter media 1701 extends between first and second end caps 1705, 1706. End cap 1706 is an open end cap having a hole 1707 therethrough.

[0387] Cartridge 1700 includes a sealing surface 1710 which, in the illustrated example, includes a convex / concave portion including three radially outwardly directed convexities 1715 .

[0388] In a typical configuration, the end piece 1705 is closed.

[0389] It is noted that sealing surface 1710 is generally circular in shape except where convex / concave portions are indicated, i.e., surface 1710 defines a hypothetical circular sealing surface. Alternatives are possible.

[0390] It is noted that filter media pack 1708 is shown with a somewhat conical shape of increasing cross section extending from end cap 1705 and end cap 1706. Alternatives are possible, including cylindrical configurations or alternative tapered configurations.

[0391] In more general terms, the filter media adjacent each end, whether circular, elliptical, or otherwise, can be characterized as having a "maximum cross-sectional dimension" that can be the same at both ends or can be larger at one end than the other (e.g., at the open end, larger than the closed end, or vice versa).

[0392] Of course, the same principles described in connection with Fig. 87 can be applied to configurations having a radially inwardly directed seal, if desired. Additionally, it is noted that the sealing surface 1710 in the figures is shown in a position that surrounds the outer periphery of the seal, i.e., projects radially outward from the adjacent end of the filter media 1708. This variation can also be used with the other configurations previously discussed.

[0393] Surface 1710 may alternatively be located on a protruding portion of end piece 1706 that is backed by a seal support extending axially from the adjacent end of filter media 1701, if desired.

[0394] In general, Fig. 87 is intended to show that the principles previously described herein may be applied to configurations of various shapes and types of filter media, and the various variations and examples described may also be applied to configurations such as those shown and described with respect to Fig. 87.

[0395] XI. Some Final Observations and Considerations Various useful and advantageous features in the design of the air cleaning device and in the design of the filter cartridge are described and illustrated herein. These features can be used together or separately, depending on the application, and in either case, some advantages according to the present disclosure can be realized. It is not specifically required that the air cleaning device assembly, the filter cartridge, or any component thereof include all of the features characterized herein.

[0396] It is also noted that Figures 1-61 and their associated characterizations are contained in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 543,090, filed Aug. 9, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, and many of the features of that provisional patent application are also included in various forms in Figures 62-87, which are described below.

[0397] This section provides some general overview discussion. Section A below describes some selected overall general terms and / or issues. Section B below provides selected example characterizations of configurations according to the present disclosure.

[0398] A. Selected Summary of Specific Terms, Characterizations, and Typical Features Many of the features described herein relate to particular advantageous air filter cartridges. Air filter cartridges can be of various types for various applications. Often, they are of the type that include removable and replaceable components in an air cleaner system, such as an air cleaner arrangement for filtering engine intake air for a vehicle or other equipment. Such cartridges are generally sized and configured to be easily installed within a housing.

[0399] In this specification, cartridges of particular interest are characterized as having a housing seal arrangement that includes a "radially directed" seal member, or by similar terminology. A radial seal member is generally a seal member that is sealed to either the surrounding structure of the air cleaning device arrangement in use, or that surrounds the structure of the air cleaning device arrangement in use, and is sealed thereto. This is intended to distinguish radial arrangements from axial or pinch seal arrangements, as discussed above. References to "structure" are typically to a portion of the air cleaning device housing, although alternatives are possible. In a radially outward seal on a cartridge, the sealing is to the surrounding structure. In a radially inward seal, the sealing is to the structure that is surrounded by the seal.

[0400] In many instances, radial seals are characterized by the term "circumferential" or by various related terms. "Circumferential" and variations thereof, in this regard, refer to the direction around the periphery of the axially opposed seal faces, which corresponds to the direction between and away from the tip of the seal faces.

[0401] As used herein, the term "corrugated" or variations thereof is used in many instances to characterize one or more circumferential portions of a sealing face. Such terms are intended to be characterized herein and interchangeable with the term "radially convex / concave configuration" and variations thereof.

[0402] It is not specifically required that any convex / concave or corrugated portions comprise smooth curves; various alternatives to these are characterized.

[0403] It is noted that in some instances reference is made to a first feature and a second feature being associated. "Associated" in this regard shall have the meaning indicated by the context in which it is characterized, and shall generally refer to one of two conditions: the second feature is the next adjacent feature to the first feature, or the first feature may engage, in use, with the associated second feature.

[0404] As used herein, the terms "non-corrugated" and "non-convex" may be used to refer to portions of a seal surface or other structure that do not include concave or convex features therein. This reference refers to localized features. For example, a prior art "racetrack type radial seal," which may correspond to the hypothetical shape of FIG. 62, for example, may be characterized as non-corrugated or free of convex / concave features, but the two semicircular edges themselves may be viewed as convex.

[0405] As used herein, a corrugation or convex / concave portion of a sealing surface may sometimes be characterized as having one or more "end recesses." In this regard, an end recess refers to a recess at one of the ends of a selected corrugation portion in the direction in which the corrugation recess extends. A middle recess is a recess that is spaced from the ends by at least one convex portion.

[0406] As used herein, with respect to a protrusion, reference may be made to a "tip amplitude," which is intended to refer to the estimated dimension of extension or projection between the deepest portion of the next adjacent or associated recess and the tip of the protrusion.

[0407] Reference may be made herein to a "sealing direction." This term is intended to refer to the direction of engagement between a sealing surface and the structure it is sealing against. Thus, in a radial seal with respect to a cartridge and a sealing surface, an outward seal has an outer sealing direction and an inward seal has an inner sealing direction.

[0408] In this specification, it may be referred to as "first and second seals" or "seal portions" being axially aligned. This is not meant to imply that these first and second seals (which are axially aligned) do not share a common area at least in some portion of their overall circumferential extent. This can be understood by reference to the examples in Figures 67-67B.

[0409] It is noted that the typical first sealing surface having the described convex / concave or wavy configuration does not correspond or is not the same as the circumferential shape of the next adjacent portion of the periphery of the filter medium, at least in that position. By "not corresponding" or "not the same", in this respect, it is only intended to show that the circumferential contour of the filter medium in the axially aligned area and the axial circumferential contour of the seal are not the same overall shape with respect to the sealing surface, the intention being to show the contour of the outline. With respect to the circumferential contour of the filter medium, it is meant the overall circumferential shape adjacent the end piece having the seal thereon. This overall filter medium contour, in the case of pleated filter medium, is meant the contour made by the tips of the pleats. If the filter medium is not pleated around its periphery, the overall shape is meant. In each of the examples shown in the figures, these types of features are applicable.

[0410] B. Features of Some Exemplary Beneficial Applications of the Principles Described Herein 1. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media and having first and second opposed intake and exhaust ends, (i) the first intake and exhaust end including an intake end, (ii) the second intake and exhaust end including an exhaust end, (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end; and (b) a housing seal device positioned on the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal device defining an air flow path, and (ii) the housing seal device having a first seal oriented in use for releasable sealing engagement with a surrounding structure. (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent about the flow path, and (iv) the first radial seal surface includes: (A) at least a first seal surface portion including a radially directed portion including an alternating radial convex / concave configuration including at least two convex portions and three concave portions within a portion of the circumferential extent along the flow path; and (B) at least 30% of the circumferential radial seal surface area does not include the alternating convex / concave configuration and has no concave portions therein. 2. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media; and (b) a housing seal arrangement positioned on the filter media pack, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radially directed seal member defining a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential direction within a periphery of the flow passage; and (iv) the first radial seal surface includes: (A) a first seal surface portion including a radially directed portion including an alternating convex / concave configuration including at least two convex portions and three concave portions within a circumferential portion of the radial seal surface; and (B) a second seal surface portion configured to fully radially sealingly engage an associated portion of a surrounding structure, the associated portion of the surrounding structure having no convex portions or concave portions therein over a continuous circumferential length of at least 100 mm. 3. The air filter cartridge according to feature 2, wherein (a) the filter media pack includes first and second filter media defining opposed inlet and outlet ends. 4. The air filter cartridge according to feature 3, wherein: (a) the first radial seal surface portion includes first and second opposed side seal surface portions extending between the first and second opposed arcuate seal surface portions. 5. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack including a filter media and having first and second opposed intake and exhaust ends, (i) a first of the opposed ends including an intake end, (ii) a second of the opposed ends including an exhaust end, (iii) the filter media pack configured to filter air entering the intake end before the air exits the exhaust end; and (b) a housing seal device positioned on the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal device defining an air flow passage, (ii) the housing seal device including a first radially directed seal member defining a first radial sealing surface oriented in use for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device, and (iii) a housing seal device configured to seal the first radially directed seal member defining a first radial sealing surface oriented in use for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device. a filter media pack, the filter media pack including: (A) a first radial seal surface having a first non-corrugated arcuate seal surface portion extending over an arcuate extent; (B) the first arcuate corrugated seal surface portion including alternating radial convex / concave configurations and extending over an inner arc that is 80% or less of the total length of the circumferential seal surface length of the radial seal surface; (C) the first arcuate corrugated seal surface portion having a radius of curvature R1; and (D) the first arcuate corrugated seal surface portion including a curved convex / curved concave configuration having at least three concave portions and a plurality of convex portions, (1) each convex portion and each concave portion of the curved convex portion / curved concave portion configuration of the first corrugated seal surface portion having a radius of curvature R2 such that the ratio of R1 / R2 for each of the curved convex portion / curved concave portion configurations of the first corrugated seal surface portion is at least 1.5. Includes. 6. The air filter cartridge according to feature 5, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface extends over an arcuate extent of at least 60 degrees. 7. The air filter cartridge according to feature 6, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface extends over a continuous arcuate extent of at least 60 degrees. 8. The air filter cartridge according to feature 6, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface includes a plurality of spaced apart arcuate portions therein that together provide an arcuate extent of at least 60°. 9. The air filter cartridge according to feature 5, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface extends over an arcuate extent of at least 20 degrees. 10. The air filter cartridge according to feature 5, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface extends over an arcuate extent of at least 30 degrees. 11. The air filter cartridge according to feature 5, wherein: (a) the first non-corrugated arcuate sealing surface extends over an arcuate extent of at least 40 degrees. 12. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 10 and 11, wherein: (a) the first arcuate seal surface portion of the radial seal surface is configured to extend over an inner arc of at least 130 degrees. 13. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 10-12, wherein (a) the first arcuate seal surface portion of the radial seal surface is configured to extend over an inner arc of a semicircle. 14. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 2-13, wherein: (a) the housing seal means includes a first radially outwardly facing radial seal surface. 15. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 2-13, wherein: (a) the housing seal means includes a first radially inwardly facing radial seal surface. 16. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-15, wherein: (a) the first radial seal surface includes at least a first seal surface portion and a second seal surface portion in a circumferential extent, each including a radially directed portion including an alternating convex / concave configuration. 17. The air filter cartridge according to feature 16, wherein (a) the second sealing surface portion includes at least three protrusions having recesses therebetween within a circumferential range. 18. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-17, wherein: (a) at least 40% of the circumferential extent of the first radial sealing surface does not include an alternating convex / concave configuration and has no recesses therein. 19. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-18, wherein: (a) at least 50% of the circumferential extent of the first radial sealing surface does not include an alternating convex / concave configuration and has no recessed portions therein. 20. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-19, wherein (a) at least 50% of the circumferential extent of the first radial sealing surface is a continuous area that does not include alternating convex / concave configurations and has no recesses therein. 21. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-20, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes at least two spaced apart portions in a circumferential direction that total at least 30% of the area of ​​the first sealing surface, that do not include an alternating convex / concave configuration, and that have no recessed portions therein. 22. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-21, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes a plurality of spaced apart portions in a circumferential direction, each of which comprises at least 15% of the circumferential extent of the radial sealing surface, each of which does not include an alternating convex / concave configuration, and includes at least two portions having no concave portions therein. 23. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-22, wherein (a) the filter media has an elliptical periphery adjacent an end thereof. 24. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-23, wherein: (a) the filter media has a racetrack periphery including two opposed straight side portions and two opposed semicircular end portions adjacent the ends thereof. 25. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-24, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes a circumferential shape having two opposed straight sealing surface portions and two opposed arcuate sealing surface portions, and (i) the straight sealing surface portions extend between the arcuate sealing surface portions. 26. An air filter cartridge according to feature 25, wherein (a) each of the two opposing arcuate seal portions has an alternating convex / concave configuration having at least two convex portions and three concave portions within a circumferential extent of the portion. 27. An air filter cartridge according to feature 26, wherein (a) each of the two opposing arcuate sealing portions includes first and second end protrusions and first and second end recesses, and (i) each end protrusion is spaced from an adjacent one of the two opposing straight portions by at least an adjacent one of the end recesses. 28. In an air filter cartridge according to feature 27, (a) each of the two mutually opposed arcuate sealing portions includes an associated intermediate recess adjacent to each end protrusion on an opposite side of an adjacent one of the end recesses, and (i) the depth of each associated intermediate recess extending in an opposite direction from the outermost portion of the protrusion is deeper than each next adjacent end recess. 29. The air filter cartridge according to feature 28, wherein (a) each end protrusion has a first concave / convex tip amplitude relative to an adjacent intermediate recess that is at least 3 mm greater than a second concave / convex tip amplitude relative to an adjacent one of the end recesses. 30. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-30, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes at least one convex / concave sealing surface portion including (i) a portion defining a hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter collinear with at least one non-convex / concave sealing portion of the first radial sealing surface, and (ii) a radially directed portion including a first surface contour having an installation interference convexity configuration extending in a sealing direction from the hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 31. An air filter cartridge according to feature 30, wherein (a) the mounting interference protrusion structure includes at least one protrusion extending in the sealing direction at least 1 mm from the sealing surface engaging periphery of the hypothetical standard shape. 32. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 30 and 31, wherein (a) the mounting interference protrusion structure includes at least one protrusion extending in the sealing direction at least 2 mm from the sealing surface engaging periphery of the hypothetical standard shape. 33. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 30-32, wherein (a) the installation interference protrusion structure includes a plurality of protrusions extending in the sealing direction from the sealing surface engaging periphery of the hypothetical standard shape. 34. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-33, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface has a portion defining a hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter that is collinear with at least one non-convex / concave sealing portion of the first radial sealing surface, and (b) the first radial sealing surface includes at least one first convex / concave seal face portion including a radially directed portion including a first face contour having at least a first sealing surface portion extending transversely to the hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 35. An air filter cartridge according to feature 34, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes a portion extending at least 1 mm in each direction across the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter. 36. An air filter cartridge according to either one of features 34 and 35, wherein (a) the first radial seal face profile includes a portion extending at least 2 mm in each direction across the hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 37. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 34-36, wherein: (a) the first radial seal face contour includes at least one protrusion extending at least 3 mm in a selected direction from a hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 38. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 34-37, wherein (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter is an ellipse. 39. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 34-38, wherein (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engaging perimeter is racetrack shaped. 40. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack; and (b) a housing seal arrangement, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radial seal member having a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow passage; (iv) the first seal surface has a portion defining a hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter that is collinear with at least one non-convex / concave seal portion of the first radial seal surface; and (v) the first radial seal surface includes at least a first convex / concave seal surface portion including a radially directed portion including a first surface contour having an installation interference convexity configuration extending in a sealing direction from the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter. 41. An air filter cartridge according to feature 40, wherein (a) the obstructing protrusion arrangement includes at least one protrusion extending from the sealing surface engaging periphery of the hypothetical standard shape in the sealing direction by at least 1 mm. 42. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 40 and 41, wherein (a) the obstructing protrusion arrangement includes at least one protrusion extending from the sealing surface engaging periphery of the hypothetical standard shape in the sealing direction by at least 2 mm. 43. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 40-42, wherein (a) the obstructing protrusion arrangement includes a plurality of protrusions extending in a sealing direction from a sealing surface engaging periphery of a hypothetical standard shape. 44. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack; and (b) a housing seal arrangement, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radial seal member having a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow passage; (iv) the first seal surface has a portion defining a hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter that is collinear with at least one non-convex / concave seal portion of the first radial seal surface; and (v) the first seal surface includes at least a first convex / concave seal surface portion including a radially directed portion including a first surface contour having at least a first seal surface portion extending transversely to the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter. 45. An air filter cartridge according to feature 44, wherein (a) the first face contour includes at least a first seal face portion extending at least 1 mm in each direction of extension across the hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 46. ​​An air filter cartridge according to either one of features 44 and 45, wherein (a) the first face contour includes at least a first seal face portion extending at least 2 mm in each direction of extension across the hypothetical standard shape seal face engagement perimeter. 47. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 6, wherein (a) the face contour includes at least one protrusion extending at least 3 mm in a selected direction from a hypothetical standard shape seal face engaging perimeter. 48. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 43-47, wherein: (a) the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter is collinear with at least 20% of the actual seal perimeter. 49. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 43-48, wherein: (a) the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter is collinear with at least 30% of the actual seal perimeter. 50. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 43-49, wherein: (a) the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engagement perimeter is collinear with at least 40% of the actual seal perimeter. 51. In an air filter cartridge according to any one of features 51-50, (a) the portion of the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engaging perimeter that is collinear with the actual seal perimeter comprises one continuous portion of the hypothetical standard shape seal surface engaging perimeter. 52. In the air filter cartridge according to feature 51, (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter is an ellipse. 53. In an air filter cartridge according to feature 52, (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter is racetrack shaped. 54. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 51-53, wherein (a) the portion of the hypothetical standard shape seal face engaging perimeter that is collinear with the actual seal perimeter includes a spaced apart portion of the hypothetical standard shape seal face engaging perimeter. 55. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 40-52, wherein (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engaging perimeter is selected from a polygon and a circle. 56. In an air filter cartridge according to feature 55, (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter is rectangular. 57. In an air filter cartridge according to feature 55, (a) the hypothetical standard shape sealing surface engagement perimeter is circular. 58. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack; and (b) a housing seal arrangement, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radial seal member having a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow passage; (iv) the first seal surface includes a first convex / concave seal surface portion having at least one convex / concave amplitude of at least 5 mm on at least one side thereof; and (v) the first seal surface includes a non-convex / concave seal surface contour on at least 30% of the circumferential extent around the flow passage. 59. The air filter cartridge according to feature 58, wherein (a) the first sealing surface includes a non-convex / non-concave surface contour portion that extends continuously along at least 30% of the circumference of the periphery of the flow passage. 60. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-59, wherein: (a) the housing seal arrangement includes a second radial seal surface portion oriented for releasable sealing engagement with the air cleaning device in use, (i) the second radial seal surface portion is axially aligned with the first radial portion, and (ii) the second radial seal surface portion is configured to sealingly engage a non-convex / concave seal surface of the housing. 61. The air filter cartridge according to feature 60, wherein (a) the second sealing surface portion is a non-convex / concave sealing surface portion. 62. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack; and (b) a housing seal arrangement, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radial seal member having a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow passage; (iv) the first radial seal surface includes a first radially directed portion including a radial convex / concave configuration; and (v) the housing seal arrangement includes a second radial seal member having a second radial seal surface portion oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use, wherein (A) the second radial seal surface portion is axially aligned with the first radial seal surface portion; and (B) the second seal surface portion is configured for sealing engagement with a non-convex / concave seal surface of a housing. 63. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-62, wherein: (a) the filter media pack has an elliptical cross-sectional shape in an area between first and second, mutually opposed, intake and exhaust ends, (i) the elliptical cross-sectional shape defines first and second curved ends having sides extending therebetween; (b) the housing seal arrangement is positioned at the exhaust end; and (c) the handle arrangement is positioned on the preform adjacent the intake end and has a handle member overlapping one of the first and second curved ends. 64. In the air filter cartridge according to feature 63, (a) the radial sealing surface member defines a first convex / concave contour portion axially aligned with a first curved end of the filter media pack, and (b) the handle device is positioned to axially overlap a second curved end of the filter media pack. 65. An air filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media pack having first and second opposed ends; and (b) a housing seal arrangement positioned adjacent the first end of the filter media pack, wherein: (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a first radial seal surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with an air cleaning device in use; (iii) the first radial seal surface defines a circumferential extent around the flow passage; and (iv) the first radial seal surface defines a first maximum and (v) the housing seal arrangement includes a second radial seal surface portion oriented for releasably sealingly engaging the air cleaning device in use, wherein (A) the second radial seal surface portion is axially aligned with the first radial seal portion and spaced from the first radial seal portion toward the second end of the filter media pack, and (B) the second seal surface portion has a second maximum cross-sectional dimension less than the first maximum cross-sectional dimension. 66. The air filter cartridge according to feature 65, wherein (a) the first radial seal surface portions of the second radial seal surface portions are each outwardly facing radial seal portions. 67. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 65 and 66, wherein: (a) the second maximum cross-sectional dimension is at least 2 mm less than the first maximum cross-sectional dimension. 68. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 65-67, wherein: (a) the second maximum cross-sectional dimension is at least 4 mm less than the first maximum cross-sectional dimension. 69. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-68, wherein (a) the filter media pack includes a fluted filter media secured to a liner filter media. 70. The air filter cartridge according to feature 69, wherein (a) the filter media pack includes a rolled filter media arrangement. 71. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-70, wherein: (a) the filter media pack includes pleated media at a peripheral extent of the open filter interior. 72. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 2, 40-62, and 65-69, wherein (a) the filter media extends between first and second opposed end pieces, (i) the first end piece is an open end piece having a housing seal arrangement thereon, (ii) the second end piece is closed, and (iii) the filter media extends around an open filter interior. 73. The air filter cartridge according to feature 72, wherein (a) the filter medium is pleated. 74. The air filter cartridge according to either one of features 72 and 73, wherein: (a) the filter media defines a cylindrical periphery. 75. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 72 and 73, wherein: (a) the filter media defines a conical periphery. 76. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 72 and 73, wherein: (a) the filter media defines a larger outer cross-sectional dimension adjacent the first end piece than adjacent the second end piece. 77. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 72 and 73, wherein: (a) the filter media defines a smaller outer cross-sectional dimension adjacent the first end piece than adjacent the second end piece. 78. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-77, wherein (a) the cartridge includes a seal support therein that is embedded in a sealing material of the housing seal arrangement. 79. The air filter cartridge according to feature 78, wherein (a) the seal support portion includes at least one wide recess on each side of the narrow protruding tip. 80. The air filter cartridge according to feature 79, wherein (a) the narrow protruding tip has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dx, (b) the wide recessed tip has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dy, and (i) Dy is at least 2×X2. 81. An air filter cartridge according to feature 80, wherein (a) the narrow protruding tip has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dx, (b) the wide recessed tip has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dy, and (i) Dy is at least 4×Dx. 82. An air filter cartridge according to feature 9, wherein (a) the narrow protruding tip has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dx, (b) the wide recessed portion has a maximum cross-sectional dimension Dy, and (i) Dy is at least 5×Dx. 83. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-15, wherein: (a) at least one protrusion in the first radial sealing surface is a segmented protrusion. 84. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-82, wherein: (a) at least one recess in the first radial sealing surface is a segmented recess. 85. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-84, wherein: (a) at least one protrusion in the first radial sealing surface is a truncated protrusion. 86. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-85, wherein (a) at least one protrusion in the first radial sealing surface includes at least one hollowed-out side portion. 87. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-86, wherein: (a) at least one protrusion in the first radial sealing surface includes at least two opposed hollowed-out side portions. 88. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-87, wherein: (a) at least one recess in the first radial sealing surface includes an arcuate portion in the direction of the protrusion. 89. The air filter cartridge according to any one of Features 1-88, wherein: (a) at least one protrusion in the first radial sealing surface includes an arcuate portion toward the recess. 90. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-89, wherein (a) the first radial sealing surface includes at least 30% of an area in a circumferential direction that does not include an alternating convex / concave configuration, has no recesses therein, and has a circumferential shape that corresponds to a contour of a circular arc. 91. An air filter cartridge according to one of features 1-89, wherein (a) the housing seal arrangement includes a first seal surface portion having (i) a first circumferential length L1 having an irregularity and (ii) a corresponding first circumferential length L2 without an irregularity, (A) a first seal surface portion having a corrugated shaped portion including an alternating convex / concave configuration, the ratio of L1 / L2 being at least 1.01. 92. The air filter cartridge according to feature 91, wherein (A) L1 / L2 is at least 1.03. 93. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 91 and 92, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is at least 1.1; 94. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 93, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is 2.5 or less; 95. The air filter cartridge according to feature 94, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is 2.0 or less; 96. In the air filter cartridge according to feature 95, (a) L1 / L2 is 1.6 or less. 97. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 91-96, wherein (a) the first sealing surface includes a plurality of spaced apart corrugated portions, and (b) each corrugated portion within the sealing surface independently has (i) a first circumferential length L1 that is contoured, and (ii) a corresponding first circumferential length L2 that is not contoured, and (A) a ratio of L1 / L2 is at least 1.01. 98. The air filter cartridge according to feature 97, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is at least 1.03. 99. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 97 and 98, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is at least 1.1. 100. An air filter cartridge according to any one of features 97 to 99, wherein (a) L1 / L2 is 2.5 or less. 101. The air filter cartridge according to feature 100, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is less than or equal to 2.0; 102. The air filter cartridge according to feature 101, wherein: (a) L1 / L2 is 1.6 or less; 103. The air filter cartridge according to any one of features 1-102, wherein (a) the first sealing surface includes at least one circumferential portion having a convex / concave contour that does not correspond to a circumferential shape of a periphery of the next adjacent filter media. 104. An air cleaning device assembly comprising: (a) a housing including a body and an access cover, (i) the housing including a structural sealing surface including a corrugated portion for sealing with a cartridge seal thereat; and (b) an air filter cartridge according to at least one of features 1-103 positioned within the housing and releasably sealed to the structural sealing surface of the housing. 105. An air cleaning device assembly according to feature 104, wherein (a) the housing includes an inlet end and an outlet end, and (b) the housing is configured to side-load an air filter cartridge at a location between the inlet and outlet ends, see e.g., FIG. 47 . 106. In the air purification device assembly according to feature 105, (a) the cartridge is also according to either one of features 63 and 64. 107. An air freshener assembly according to feature 106, wherein (a) the cartridge is according to feature 64. 108. An air cleaning device assembly according to any one of features 104-107, wherein (a) the housing includes a structural sealing surface having at least one non-corrugated portion of at least 100 mm having no protrusions or recesses therein.

Claims

1. In the air filter cartridge, (a) a filter media pack including a filter media, the filter media pack having first and second opposed ends; (b) a housing seal device positioned over the filter media pack, (i) the housing seal arrangement defines an air flow passage; (ii) the housing seal arrangement includes a radially outwardly facing seal member defining a radial sealing surface oriented for releasable sealing engagement with a surrounding structure in use; (iii) the radial sealing surface defines a circumferential extent about the flow passage; (iv) the radial seal surface has an elliptical circumferential shape including first and second opposed arcuate seal surface portions separated by first and second opposed non-corrugated side seal surface portions; (v) at least one of the first and second opposing arcuate seal surface portions includes a radially oriented portion including an alternating radial convex / concave configuration including at least two convex portions and three concave portions along the circumferential portion; Such a housing sealing device, Including air filter cartridge.

2. (a) the first and second opposing non-corrugated side seal surface portions do not include alternating convex / concave configurations and have no recesses therein; 2. The air filter cartridge of claim 1.

3. (a) the first and second opposing non-corrugated side seal surface portions are parallel to one another; 3. The air filter cartridge of claim 2.

4. (a) the other of the first and second opposing arcuate seal surface portions includes a radially oriented portion including an alternating radial convex / concave configuration including at least two convex portions and three concave portions along the circumferential portion; 2. The air filter cartridge of claim 1.

5. (a) each of the two opposing arcuate seal portions includes first and second end protrusions and first and second end recesses; (i) each end projection is spaced from an adjacent one of said two opposing straight portions by at least an adjacent one of said end recesses; 5. The air filter cartridge of claim 4.

6. (a) each of the two opposing arcuate seal portions includes an intermediate recess adjacent to a respective end protrusion on an opposite side from an adjacent one of the end recesses; (i) the depth of each intermediate recess in an area extending in a direction opposite from the outermost portion of the projection is greater than that of each next adjacent end recess; 6. The air filter cartridge of claim 5.

7. (a) the filter media pack has an elliptical cross-sectional shape between the first and second opposed ends; (i) the elliptical cross-sectional shape is defined by first and second opposed curved ends and first and second opposed sides extending between the first and second opposed curved ends, respectively; (b) the housing seal device is located at an exhaust end; (c) a handle arrangement positioned on the preform adjacent the opposing intake end and having a handle member overlapping one of the first and second opposing curved ends.

2. The air filter cartridge of claim 1.

8. (a) the filter media pack comprises a fluted filter media; 2. The air filter cartridge of claim 1.

9. (a) the filter media pack comprises pleated media; 2. The air filter cartridge of claim 1.

10. In an air cleaning device assembly, (a) a housing including a main body and an access cover, (i) a housing including a structural seal surface including corrugations for sealing with a cartridge seal thereat; (b) an air filter cartridge as defined in claim 1 positioned within said housing and releasably sealed to said structural sealing surface of said housing; and 16. An air cleaning device assembly comprising:

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