Flow control element and fluid device including same

Abstract

A flow control element (FCE) and a fluidic device including the same are described. In an embodiment, the flow control element (FCE) comprises a body having a front side, a back side, a left side side, and a right side side. The body further comprises a base region, a top region, and an intermediate region between the base region and the top region. The FCE is configured to move in response to a fluid flow (more specifically, a pressure differential across the FCE) to regulate the flow of fluid through the FCE. In an embodiment, the FCE is included in a fluidic device for a vehicle, such as, but not limited to, an intake filter for a transmission of the vehicle.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to flow control elements and fluidic devices including the same. Specifically, the present disclosure relates to flow control elements used in suction filters, such as, but not limited to, suction filters for transmissions. [Background technology]

[0002]

[0002] Various types of filtration devices and fluid control elements are known. For example, filtration devices used in vehicle applications (e.g., vehicle engines, transmissions, etc.) are widely known. Some filtration devices used in vehicle applications include a housing that forms a chamber for a filtration medium (also referred to herein as "filter medium" or simply "media"), such as a felt-type or pleated medium that is permeable to the fluid while trapping particles and other contaminants that may be entrained in the fluid. In some filters, one or more types of filter media are contained in the housing, depending on the desired filter performance characteristics.

[0003] For example, some transmission intake filters contain two types of filter media, so that when the fluid is cold and viscous, it flows primarily through the first type of media, while when the fluid is warm and less viscous, it flows through both the first and second types of media. Such intake filters may include flow control elements to regulate fluid flow under various operating conditions. For example, U.S. Patent No. 9,764,261 discloses a two-layer fluid filter including a spring-adjusted hinge valve that passively adjusts the size of an orifice between the two media types based on pressure drop. Similarly, U.S. Patent No. 10,753,241 discloses a fluid filter including a filter pack supporting first and second filter media, with a flow control element disposed at a mounting location between the first and second filter media.

[0004] While useful, the hinge valves and flow control elements described in the '261 and '241 patents are not without limitations. For example, due to their construction and operating characteristics, the hinge valves and flow control elements described in the '261 and '241 patents tend to occupy a relatively large area within a fluid filter device. This limits the amount of media that can be used in such filters, particularly because the physical size of the fluid filter device (i.e., housing) may be determined by other factors, such as the size of the installation site. This can shorten the useful life of the fluid filter and / or affect filtration performance. Summary of the Invention

[0005]

[0005] Thus, there remains a need in the art for improved flow control elements for various applications, particularly fluid filtration applications. The present disclosure is directed to addressing that need. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006]

[0006] Features and advantages of embodiments of the claimed subject matter will become apparent as the following detailed description proceeds and by reference to the drawings, in which like numbers refer to like parts, and in which:

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a fluidic device with a flow control element consistent with the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of the fluidic device of FIG. 1 with the upper and lower housing covers removed. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the fluidic device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a cross-sectional side view of the fluidic device of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 2 is a top view of the fluidic device of FIG. 1 with the upper housing cover, the lower housing cover, and the first and second media removed. [Figure 6]2 is a cross-sectional side view of a flow control element at an attachment location of the fluidic device of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a flow control element consistent with the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a right side view of the flow control element of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a left side view of the flow control element of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a rear view of the flow control element of FIG. 7. [Figure 11] FIG. 8 is a front view of the flow control element of FIG. 7. [Figures 12A-12C] 12A-12C are cross-sectional side views of an example flow control element consistent with the present disclosure as it transitions from a first position (FIG. 12A) to a second position (FIG. 12B) and from the second position (FIG. 12B) to a third position (FIG. 12C). [Figure 13A] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another example of a flow control element consistent with the present disclosure. [Figure 13B] FIG. 13B is a rear view of the flow control element of FIG. 13A. [Figure 13C] FIG. 13B is a front view of the flow control element of FIG. 13A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008]

[0007] The present disclosure relates generally to flow control elements and fluid devices including the same. Specifically, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to flow control elements used in fluid filters, such as suction filters for vehicle transmissions. While the present disclosure focuses on embodiments in which the flow control elements are used in connection with fluid filters, such as transmission filters, the flow control elements and fluid devices are not limited to such end uses. Indeed, the flow control elements described herein may be used in any application in which fluid flow through a conduit (e.g., a pipe, a filter, etc.) is desired.

[0009] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a flow control element for a fluidic device. In an embodiment, the flow control element (FCE) comprises a body, the body comprising a front surface, a back surface, a left side surface, and a right side surface. The body further comprises a base region, an upper region, and an intermediate region between the base and upper regions. The FCE is configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position in response to fluid flow (more specifically, a pressure differential across the FCE) to regulate fluid flow through the FCE. In the first position, the intermediate region and the upper region are substantially undeformed. In the second position, at least a portion of the upper region is deformed toward the back surface of the FCE. In the third position, at least a portion of the intermediate region is deformed toward the back surface of the FCE. In an embodiment, the intermediate region may include or take the form of a hinge, which controls relative movement of the upper region with respect to the base region in response to fluid flow.

[0010] As used herein, the term "substantially undeformed" when used with respect to a portion of an FCE means that the relevant portion of the FCE is oriented according to a default position, which is the position of the relevant element in the absence of fluid flow from the front to the back of the FCE. With that in mind, the term "deformed" when used with respect to a relevant portion of an FCE means that the relevant portion has moved relative to its default position. As described below, in embodiments, the FCEs described herein may exhibit a nonlinear response to fluid flow from its front to its back. As used herein, the term "nonlinear response" refers to a situation in which the relevant portion of the FCE remains substantially undeformed in response to a pressure differential between the front and back of the FCE equal to or less than a first pressure P1, but deforms a first degree in response to a pressure differential across the FCE P2, where P2 is greater than P1. Similarly, the relevant portion of the FCE may move a second degree in response to a pressure differential across the FCE P3, where P3 > P2, and the second degree is different from the first degree of movement. Alternatively, all or a portion of the FCE described herein may exhibit a linear response to a differential pressure across the FCE (i.e., between the front and back of the FCE). In such cases, the relevant portion of the FCE may remain substantially undeformed in response to a differential pressure across the FCE of P1 or less, but may deform a first degree in response to a differential pressure across the FCE of P2, and a second degree at a differential pressure across the FCE of P3, where P2 > P1, P3 > P2, and the first and second degrees are the same or substantially the same as one another. In other words, the relative movements (i.e., first degree, second degree, etc.) of the relevant portions of the FCE may be the same or different from one another depending on the desired application. In embodiments in which the relevant portions of the FCE exhibit a nonlinear response, the second degree of movement may differ from the first degree by, for example, more than 2%, more than 3%, more than 4%, or more than 5%. In contrast, if the relevant portion of the FCE exhibits a linear response, the magnitude of the second shift will be the same or substantially the same (ie, less than 2% difference) as the magnitude of the first shift.

[0011] In any or all of the embodiments described herein, axis A may extend through a middle region of the FCE and through the left and right sides. In such cases, the FCE is configured such that at least a portion of the FCE bends about axis A when the FCE transitions from a first (substantially undeformed) position to a second (first deformed) position, and from the second (first deformed) position to a third (section deformed) position.

[0012]

[0011] In any or all embodiments described herein, the base region may have a thickness T1 between the front and back surfaces of the FCE. In some cases, the intermediate region may include a recess (e.g., on the back or front surface of the FCE) that extends between the left and right sides of the FCE. The recess may have a thickness T2 between the front and back surfaces of the FCE, where T2 < T1. In some cases, the recess has a lower edge and an upper edge, and the FCE further includes at least one flexure restraint element that extends between the lower and upper edges. The flexure restraint element may be configured to regulate the amount of force (e.g., the amount of differential pressure between the front and back surfaces of the flow control element) required to move the flow control element from a first (substantially undeformed) position to a second (first deformed) position and from the second (first deformed) position to a third (second deformed) position. In an embodiment, at least one flexure restraint element divides the recess into a plurality of sub-recesses. For example, at least one flexure restraint element may include a plurality of flexure restraint elements each extending between the lower and upper edges of the recess. In such a case, two adjacent flexure restraint elements may define a sub-recess therebetween. Similarly, a sub-recess may be defined between a flexure restraint element and an adjacent left or right edge of the back surface of the FCE. In an embodiment, each of the plurality of flexure restraint elements may extend between the lower and upper edges of the recess on the back surface of the FCE. In yet another embodiment, the FCE does not include a recess, and one or more flexure restraint elements extend from the back surface of the FCE. In such a case, the one or more flexure restraint elements may be configured to regulate the amount of force (e.g., the amount of differential pressure between the front and back surfaces of the flow control element) required to move the flow control element from a first (substantially undeformed) position to a second (first deformed) position and from the second (first deformed) position to a third (second deformed) position.

[0013] In any or all of the embodiments described herein, the base region may include at least one standoff extending from a back surface of the FCE. In such cases, the at least one standoff may be configured to at least partially define a space between the back surface of the FCE and a sidewall of an attachment location within a fluidic device at which the FCE may be installed. In these or other examples, the base region may further include a first retention element extending from the back surface of the FCE. The first retention element may be configured to interact with a second retention element of the attachment location to retain the flow control element within the attachment location when the FCE is installed at the attachment location.

[0014] In some embodiments described herein, the base region may further comprise at least one lower opening, which may extend from the first surface to the second surface of the FCE. In embodiments, the at least one lower opening includes a plurality of lower openings, each extending from the first surface to the second surface of the FCE. In some cases, the plurality of lower openings includes at least a first lower opening and a second lower opening adjacent to the first lower opening. In other embodiments, the base region may not include one or more lower openings, i.e., such openings may be omitted.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a fluidic device. Generally, the fluidic device comprises a frame element including a mounting location and a flow control element (FCE) consistent with the present disclosure disposed within (e.g., coupled to) the mounting location. In embodiments, the mounting location comprises a first mounting sidewall, a second mounting sidewall, and a bottom. In such cases, the base region of the FCE comprises at least one standoff extending from a rear surface of the FCE, and a space (gap) exists between the rear surface of the FCE and the second mounting sidewall. The space (gap) is at least partially defined by the at least one standoff. In these or other examples, the base region of the FCE may further comprise at least one lower opening extending from a first surface of the FCE to a second surface of the FCE.

[0016] In embodiments, the fluid device further includes an upper housing shell and a lower housing shell. In such cases, the frame element includes a perimeter frame and at least a first filter media. The perimeter frame includes a first pair of frame sidewalls and a second pair of frame sidewalls. At least two of the upper housing shell, the lower housing shell, and the perimeter frame are coupled to one another such that the frame element defines a chamber between at least a first inward-facing surface of the upper housing shell and a second inward-facing surface of the lower housing shell. In these or other embodiments, the base region of the FCE may include a first retention element extending from a back surface of the FCE, and the mounting location includes a first mounting sidewall, a second mounting sidewall, a bottom, and a second retention element extending from the second mounting sidewall. In such cases, the FCE is coupled to the mounting location at least in part by interaction between the first retention element and the second retention element.

[0017] As described above, the frame element may include a perimeter frame and a first filter medium. In such embodiments, the first filter medium may have a first filtration density. In these or other embodiments, the frame element may also include a second filter medium having a second filtration density, the second filtration density being the same as or different from the first filtration density. Without limitation, in some embodiments, the second filtration density is different from the first filtration density. In some embodiments, the first filter medium is divided into a plurality of first media rows and the second filter medium is divided into a plurality of second media rows, the number of first media rows being the same as or different from the number of second media rows. Without limitation, in some embodiments, the number of first media rows is different from the number of second media rows.

[0018] In any or all of the embodiments described herein, the fluidic device comprises an inlet for fluid to flow in and an outlet for fluid to flow out. In embodiments, the lower housing shell comprises the fluid inlet and the frame element comprises the fluid outlet. In other embodiments, the lower housing shell comprises the fluid inlet and the upper housing shell comprises the fluid outlet. In yet other embodiments, the upper housing comprises the fluid inlet and the frame element or the lower housing comprises the fluid outlet.

[0019] In embodiments, the fluid devices described herein take the form of a fluid filter, such as a fluid filter for an engine or transmission. Without limitation, in embodiments, the fluid devices described herein take the form of an intake filter for a transmission.

[0020] As will become apparent from the following description, the flow control elements described herein may have many advantages. For example, the flow control elements described herein may be configured to exhibit a desired response to fluid flow from its front surface to its rear surface. For example, by controlling the configuration and placement of the flexure restriction element within the recess in the intermediate region, the performance of the flow control element in response to fluid flow can be tailored. In embodiments, the flow control element is configured to exhibit a nonlinear response to fluid flow from its front surface to its rear surface.

[0021] In addition to being highly customizable, the flow control elements described herein may also have a relatively small footprint when installed in a fluidic device, compared to the footprints of other types of flow control elements. As a result, the amount of filter media that may be included in a fluidic device described herein may be increased compared to the amount of media that may be used with other types of flow control elements, such as those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,764,261 and 10,753,241.

[0022] For purposes of illustration and ease of understanding, flow control elements consistent with the present disclosure will be described in relation to their use in a fluid device, specifically a fluid intake filter for a vehicle transmission. It is emphasized that such description is merely exemplary, and that the flow control elements described herein are not limited to use in a fluid intake filter. Indeed, the flow control elements described herein may be used in any suitable flow control application.

[0023] Reference is now made to FIGS. 1 through 6, which provide various views of an example of a fluidic device including a flow control element consistent with the present disclosure. In this example, the fluidic device is configured as an intake filter for a vehicle, although the fluidic device may be used in other applications. As best shown in FIG. 1, the fluidic device 100 includes an upper housing cover 1, a lower housing cover 3, and a frame element 5 (sometimes referred to herein as a filter pack). The frame element includes a perimeter frame 7, which in this embodiment includes a first frame wall 25, a second frame wall 27, a third frame wall 29, and a fourth frame wall 31, as best shown in FIGS. 2 and 5. That is, the perimeter frame may include a first pair of frame walls (i.e., first and second frame walls 25, 27) and a second pair of frame walls (i.e., third and fourth frame walls 29, 31). In an embodiment, the first pair of frame walls (25, 27) may be parallel to one another and the second pair of frame walls (29, 31) may be parallel to one another, as shown in Figures 2 and 5. However, such a configuration is not required and the perimeter frame 7 may include any suitable number of frame walls (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or more), with such frame walls oriented in any suitable manner relative to one another.

[0024] Generally, the perimeter frame 7 is configured to support a first filter media 9 (hereinafter, first media) and a second filter media 11 (hereinafter, second media) therein. This concept is best illustrated in FIG. 2, which shows an embodiment in which the perimeter frame supports multiple rows of the first media 9 and rows of the second media 11. While the illustrated embodiment shows five rows of the first media 9 and two rows of the second media 11, the fluidic devices described herein are not limited to such a configuration, and any suitable number of rows of first and second media may be used. For example, in embodiments, the perimeter frame 7 is configured to accommodate multiple rows of first media and a second number of rows of second media, where the number of rows of first media is the same or different from the number of rows of second media. In embodiments, the number of rows of first media and the number of rows of second media may be the same or different and range from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more rows, respectively. In certain non-limiting embodiments, the number of first media rows is different from the number of second media rows, ranging from 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more rows, respectively.

[0025] Further, as best shown in FIG. 2 , the perimeter frame 7 may include one or more ribs 19 configured to divide the first and second media 9, 11, respectively, into one or more media columns. In embodiments, the ribs 19 are overmolded onto the first media 9 and / or the second media 11, although such a configuration is not required. For example, as best shown in FIG. 3 , the ribs 19 may extend from the top to the bottom of the perimeter frame 7 to divide the first and second media into one or more columns. The ribs 19 may also be integral with or coupled to one or more walls of the perimeter frame 7. For example, the ribs 19 may be coupled to one or more walls of the perimeter frame 7 via welding, fasteners, adhesives, mechanical joints (e.g., an interference fit or other suitable joint between the ends of the ribs 19 and corresponding features of the perimeter frame), combinations thereof, or the like. Alternatively, the ribs 19 may be integral with one or more walls of the perimeter frame 7. The ribs 19 are preferably integral with one or more walls of the perimeter frame 7, such as the first frame wall 25, the second frame wall 27, the third frame wall 29, and / or the fourth frame wall 31. Without limitation, the ribs preferably extend between the first and second frame walls 25, 27, between the third and fourth frame walls 29, 31, or between any other pair of frame walls 25, 27, 29, 31.

[0026] The type and nature of the filter media used as the first medium and the second medium 11 are not limited, and any suitable type of filter media may be used. In embodiments, as best shown in FIG. 2 , the first medium 9 is or includes a first pleated filter medium, and the second medium 11 is or includes a second pleated filter medium. In these or other examples, the first medium 9 may have a first filtration density that is the same as or different from the second filtration density of the second medium 11. Without limitation, in embodiments, the first filtration density (of the first medium 9) is preferably different from (i.e., greater than or less than) the second filtration density (of the second medium 11). For example, in embodiments, the first filtration density is higher than the second filtration density. In other embodiments, the first filtration density is lower than the second filtration density.

[0027] As best shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 5, the first medium 9 and the second medium 11 are separated by a flow control element (FCE) 13, the nature and configuration of which will be described in more detail below. As best shown in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, in this embodiment, the FCE 13 is mounted (e.g., coupled) within a mounting location on the frame element 5, more specifically, the perimeter frame 7. In this embodiment, the mounting location includes a mounting cavity at least partially defined by a first mounting sidewall 15, a second mounting sidewall 17, and a bottom 18. The first and second mounting sidewalls 15, 17 extend between two walls of the perimeter frame 7. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second mounting sidewalls extend between a first frame wall 25 and a second frame wall 27, although such a configuration is not required. For example, the first and second mounting sidewalls 15, 17 may be configured to extend between the third and fourth frame walls 29, 31, between the first and third frame walls 25, 29, between the first and fourth frame walls 25, 31, between the second and third frame walls 27, 29, and / or between the second and fourth frame walls 27, 31. In each case, the mounting cavity may be defined by at least a portion of the first and second mounting sidewalls 15, 17 extending therebetween. For example, as best shown in FIG. 5 , when the first and second mounting sidewalls 15, 17 extend between the first and second frame walls 25, 27, the mounting cavity may also be defined at least in part by a portion of the first frame wall 25 and a portion of the second frame wall 27.

[0028] In other words, the mounting location may include a mounting cavity having a front, a rear, a left side, a right side, and a bottom. In such a case, the first mounting sidewall 15 may define at least a portion of the rear side of the mounting location, the second mounting sidewall 17 may define at least a portion of the front side of the mounting location, and the bottom 18 may define at least a portion of the bottom side of the mounting location. The sides of the mounting location may be at least partially defined by one or more walls of the perimeter frame 7. In an embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 5 , for example, the left and right sides of the mounting location may be at least partially defined by portions of the first and second frame walls 25 and 27, respectively. Alternatively, the left and right sides of the mounting location may be defined by different structures, such as third and fourth frame walls 29, 31 (e.g., when the first and second mounting sidewalls 15, 17 extend between the third and fourth frame walls 29, 31). In still other embodiments, the left and right sides of the mounting location may be defined by one or more walls that are integrally formed with or otherwise joined to the perimeter frame 7, but that are different and / or separate from the frame walls 25, 27, 29, 31 thereof.

[0029] The depth and width of the attachment locations are not limited, and attachment locations having any suitable depth and width may be used. In embodiments, the attachment locations have a depth (measured from the upper edge of the first or second attachment sidewall 15, 17 within the attachment cavity to the upper surface of the bottom 18) ranging from about 10 mm to about 25 mm, such as from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, or from about 13 mm to about 17 mm. Without limitation, the depth of the attachment locations is preferably from about 14 mm to about 16 mm. In these or other embodiments, the attachment locations have a width (measured between corresponding points on the sides adjacent the upper openings of the first and second attachment sidewalls 15, 17 facing the attachment cavity) ranging from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 6 mm, or from about 2 mm to about 5 mm. Without limitation, the depth of the attachment locations is preferably from about 3 mm to about 4.5 mm. As can be appreciated, the width of the mounting location is smaller compared to mounting locations used in other types of fluidic devices, allowing for the use of a larger amount of filter media (e.g., first media 9, second media 11) in the fluidic device 100.

[0030] The upper housing cover 1, the lower housing cover 3, and the frame element 5 may be coupled to one another in any suitable manner to form the fluidic device 100. For example, the surrounding frame 7 may be attached to the upper housing cover 1 and the lower housing cover 3 by one or more of welding (e.g., vibration welding, laser welding, ultrasonic welding, infrared welding, combinations thereof, etc.), adhesives, mechanical fasteners, mechanical joints, combinations thereof, etc. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper housing cover 1 and the lower housing cover 3 are attached (e.g., by welding) to the upper and lower surfaces of the surrounding frame 7, respectively. The upper housing cover 1, the frame element 5, and / or the lower housing cover 3 may also include mounting bosses (unnumbered) that can be used to attach the fluidic device to a device such as a vehicle transmission. In such an embodiment, the upper housing cover 1, the lower housing cover 3, and the surrounding frame 7 form chambers that enclose the first and second media 9, 11. However, such a configuration is not required, and the fluidic device 100 may have a different configuration. For example, in an embodiment, the upper housing cover 1 may be attached (eg, by welding, adhesive, mechanical fasteners, etc.) to the lower housing cover 3 to form a cavity that completely surrounds the perimeter frame 7.

[0031] The fluid device 100 further comprises a fluid inlet 21 (for fluid inflow) and a fluid outlet 23 (for fluid outflow). In the illustrated embodiment, the lower housing cover 3 may comprise the fluid inlet 21, and the frame element 5 may comprise the fluid outlet, as best shown in FIG. 1 . However, such a configuration is not required, and the fluid inlet and outlet may be located in any suitable location. For example, in an embodiment, the lower housing cover 3 comprises the fluid inlet 21, and the upper housing cover 1 comprises the fluid outlet 23. Alternatively, in an embodiment, the upper housing cover 1 comprises the fluid inlet 21, and the frame element 5 or the lower housing cover 3 comprises the fluid outlet 23.

[0032] The flow control element (FCE) 13 is generally configured to regulate (independently or in conjunction with other factors such as, but not limited to, the type and surface area of ​​the first and second media 9, 11) the amount of fluid that will flow through the filter media of the fluidic device 100. As described in further detail below, the structure of the FCE 13 may be configured so that it can regulate fluid flow through the first and second media 9, 11 as a function of temperature, viscosity, fluid pressure, pressure differential across its front and / or back surfaces, and combinations thereof.

[0033] With the foregoing in mind, reference is now made to FIGS. 7 through 12C, which provide various views of an example FCE 13 consistent with the present disclosure. As shown, FCE 13 comprises a base region 33, an upper region 37, and an intermediate region 35 between base region 33 and upper region 37. FCE 13 further comprises a front surface 39, a left side 40, a rear surface 41, and a right side 42. Base region 33 is generally sized and configured to fit within a mounting location of a frame element of a fluidic device, such as, but not limited to, the mounting location of frame element 5 described above. For example, as best shown in FIG. 6, base region 33 may be sized and configured to fit within a cavity in the mounting location of frame element 5, such that at least a portion of front surface 39 abuts second mounting sidewall 17.

[0034] The base region 33 may further be configured such that a gap G exists between at least a portion of the back surface 41 of the FCE 13 and the first mounting sidewall 15. The FCE 13 (more specifically, the base region 33) may include one or more standoffs 43 extending from the back surface 41, as best shown in FIGS. 7 and 10. The depth of at least a portion of the standoffs 43 (measured from a surface of the standoffs 43 configured to abut the first mounting sidewall 15 to a surface of the back surface 41) may be selected such that the gap G has a desired size. The physical configuration of the standoffs 43 is not limited, and the standoffs 43 may be configured in any suitable manner. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the standoffs 43 may extend from a lower edge 57 of the recess 48 in the intermediate region 35 toward the bottom surface of the FCE 13. In such a case, as also shown in FIG. 7, the standoffs 43 may include a tapered region (unnumbered) proximate the bottom of the FCE 13. In such a case, the tapered region of the standoff 43 is configured so that it does not abut the first mounting sidewall 15 when the FCE 13 is installed in the mounting location of the frame element 5. As will be appreciated, the use of a tapered region may facilitate passive flow of fluid through the lower opening 47 and gap G, as will be described below. Of course, the standoff 43 need not be configured as shown in FIG. 7 and may be configured differently. For example, the standoff 43 may be configured without a taper, such that it extends substantially uniformly from the lower edge 57 of the recess 48 to or toward the bottom of the FCE 13.

[0035] The FCE 13 is configured to be retained within an attachment location of a fluidic device, such as an attachment location of a frame element 5. The base region 33 may have a thickness T1 (shown in FIG. 12A) and may include one or more retention features configured to facilitate coupling of the FCE within the attachment location. The thickness T1 of the base region 33 is less than the width of a mounting cavity in the attachment location, but is not otherwise limited. In embodiments, T1 ranges from about 1.0 mm to about 5 mm, or from about 2.0 mm to about 3.5 mm, or from about 2.0 mm to about 3.0 mm. In these or other embodiments, the mounting cavity in the attachment location of the frame element 5 may have a width within the above ranges.

[0036]

[0035] The type and configuration of retention elements that can be used to couple the FCE 13 to the interior of the attachment location are not limited, and any suitable retention elements may be used. Non-limiting examples of retention elements that can be used to couple the FCE 13 to the interior of the attachment location include mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, interference fits, etc.), adhesives, welding, and combinations thereof. Without limitation, the FCE 13 preferably includes one or more FCE retention elements configured to form an interference fit with corresponding attachment retention elements within the attachment location of the frame element. For example, as best shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the base region 33 may include an FCE retention element 45 extending from the rear surface 41 of the FCE 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the FCE retention element 45 and the attachment location of the frame element 5 include an attachment retention element 46. The FCE retaining element 45 extends from the back surface 41 of the FCE 13 and includes teeth configured to interact with corresponding teeth on the mounting retaining element 46 extending from the first mounting sidewall 15 (best shown in FIG. 6) to form an interference fit joint, thereby coupling the FCE 13 to the interior of the mounting location.

[0037] In embodiments, the base region of a flow control element described herein may include one or more passive flow control openings that passively allow fluid to flow through the flow control element (e.g., in conjunction with a gap G) from its front surface 39 to its rear surface 41. This concept is illustrated in FIGS. 7, 10, and 11, which show an embodiment of an FCV 13 having a base region 33 with multiple lower openings 47. The number, size, and shape of the lower openings 47 are not limited, and any suitable number, size, and shape of lower openings 47 may be used. For example, the base region 33 may include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more lower openings 47. When multiple lower openings 47 are used, the sizes (e.g., widths WLO and / or heights HLO) of such openings may be the same as or different from one another. For example, the base region 33 may include a first lower opening 47 having a width WLO1 and a height HLO1 and a second lower opening 47 having a width WLO2 and a height HLO2, where WLO1 is the same as or different from WLO2 and HLO1 is the same as or different from HLO2. Similarly, when multiple lower openings 47 are used, the shapes of each lower opening may be the same as or different from one another. For example, the base region 33 may include a first lower opening 47 with a first shape and a second lower opening 47 with a second shape, where the first and second shapes are the same as or different.

[0038] As will be appreciated, by controlling the size, shape, and location of each lower opening 47, it is possible to control the extent to which fluid passively flows through the gap G from the rear surface 41 to the front surface 39 of the flow control element 13. With that in mind, in embodiments, the base region 33 comprises a plurality of lower openings 47, each of which has the same or substantially the same shape and extends uniformly or nearly uniformly along its width between the left and right side surfaces 40, 42 of the FCE 13. In this context, "substantially uniformly spaced" means that the distance S1 between adjacent edges of adjacent lower openings 47 (as shown in FIG. 11 ) varies by 5% or less.

[0039] 7, 10, and 11 illustrate embodiments in which the FCE 13 includes a lower opening 47, but the use of the lower opening 47 is not required. For example, in embodiments in which passive flow of fluid from the rear surface 41 to the front surface 39 is undesirable or is achieved using other means, the lower opening 47 may be omitted. Thus, in embodiments, the FCEs described herein may not include a lower opening 47 but may include any or all of the other features described herein. FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate an example of an FCE 1300 that does not include a lower opening 47 but includes many of the other features of the FCE 13 described herein. Similarly, and unlike the FCE 13, the FCE 1300 does not include a recess 50 having an upper edge 55 and a lower edge 57. Rather, in the FCE 1300, the FRE 49 extends from the rear surface 41 of the intermediate region 35 of the FCE 1300. Similar to the FREs of FCE 13, the spacing and geometry of FREs 49 of FCE 1300 may be adjusted to control movement of the middle and upper regions 35, 37, for example, in response to fluid flow (more specifically, the pressure differential across FCE 1300).

[0040] The intermediate region 35 of the FCE 13 is configured to control the degree to which the upper region 37 moves in response to fluid flow, generally from the front surface 39 to the rear surface 41. As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, the intermediate region 35 includes a recess 48. In the illustrated embodiment, the recess 48 extends from the left side surface 40 to the right side surface 42 of the flow control element 13 and is formed in its rear surface 41. However, such a configuration is not required, and the recess 48 may be in a different location. For example, in an embodiment, the recess 48 may be formed in the front surface 39 of the FCE 13 and extend between its left side surface 40 and right side surface 42. However, in a preferred embodiment, the recess 48 is formed in the rear surface 41 of the FCE 13, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 10.

[0041] The geometry of the recess 48 is not limited, and the recess 48 may be configured in any suitable manner depending on the desired performance of the FCE 13. With that in mind, the recess 48 is generally configured to at least partially define an axis A about which the upper region 37 may deflect (e.g., by rotation) in response to fluid flow from the front surface 39 to the rear surface 41 of the FCE 13. As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 10, the axis A may extend through the rear wall of the recess 48 between the left and right sides 40, 42 of the FCE 13. The rear wall of the recess 48 may have a thickness T2 that is less than the thickness T1 of the base region 33 (as shown in FIG. 12A), thereby facilitating rotation (bending) of the upper region 37. The thickness T1 of the base region 33 is within the range described above. In contrast, the thickness T2 of the rear wall of the recess 48 may range from about 0.5 mm to about 2.0 mm, for example, from about 0.9 mm to about 1.5 mm. In an embodiment, T2 is about 1.0 mm. In other words, thickness T2 may be 50% or less of T1, 40% or less of T1, 30% or less of T1, 20% or less of T1, or 10% or less of T1. As will be appreciated, as thickness T2 decreases relative to T1, the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential between front surface 39 and rear surface 41 resulting from fluid flow) required to deflect (bend) upper region 37 about axis A may also decrease. Conversely, as thickness T2 increases relative to T1, the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect (bend) upper region 37 about axis A may also increase.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 6 and 12A-12C, the recess 48 has a C-shaped cross-sectional shape, although the recesses described herein are not so limited. Indeed, the recess 48 may have any suitable cross-sectional shape. For example, the recess 48 may have a triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, circular, semicircular, or irregular cross-sectional shape. In either case, the recess 48 may be at least partially defined by an upper edge 55 and a lower edge 57, as best shown in FIG. 6. The distance HR between the upper edge 55 and the lower edge 57 represents the height of the recess 48 and may be set based on the desired performance characteristics of the FCE 13. For example, increasing HR (alone or in conjunction with decreasing T2) may reduce the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to move the upper region 37 relative to the middle region 35 (i.e., about axis A) in response to fluid flow. Conversely, decreasing HR (alone or in conjunction with increasing T2) may increase the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to move upper region 37 relative to middle region 35 (i.e., about axis A) in response to fluid flow. The distance HR may also be used to limit (set) the distance (i.e., range of motion) that upper region 37 can deflect about axis A, with a shorter HR providing a smaller range of motion than a larger HR.

[0043] The HR of recess 48 may be constant (or substantially constant) along the length of FCE 13 (i.e., between left side surface 40 and right side surface 42), or it may vary. In embodiments, the HR of recess 48 is constant or substantially constant along the length of FCE 13. In either case, the HR of the recess may be in the range of about 2 mm to about 6 mm, such as about 2 mm to about 5 mm, or about 2 mm to about 4 mm. Without limitation, in embodiments, the HR is in the range of about 3 mm to about 4 mm.

[0044] The middle region 35 of the FCE 13 may further comprise one or more flexure restriction elements (FREs). Generally, the FREs are configured (independently or in conjunction with other features of the middle region 35) to restrict the degree to which the upper region 37 moves about axis A in response to fluid flow from one side of the FCE 13, such as from the front surface 39 to the back surface 41, to another side of the FCE. More specifically, the FREs may be configured to adjust the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect (move) the upper region 37 about axis A.

[0045] 7 and 10, the intermediate region 35 may include one or more FREs 49. The FREs 49 are generally positioned within a recess 48 and may be configured to divide the recess 48 into multiple sub-recesses 50, as best shown in FIG. 7. For example, in an embodiment, a single FRE 49 may be positioned within the recess 48, dividing the recess 48 into two sub-recesses 50, with each sub-recess 50 surrounded by the FRE 49 and a portion of either the left side surface 40 or the right side surface 42 of the FRE 13. Similarly, two FREs 49 may be positioned within the recess 48, dividing the recess 48 into three sub-recesses 50. In such a case, the first sub-recess 50 is surrounded by one of the FREs 49 and a portion of the left side surface 40, the second sub-recess 50 is surrounded by two FREs 49, and the third sub-recess 50 is surrounded by one of the FREs 49 and a portion of the right side surface 42. Of course, the number of FREs 49 and the number of sub-recesses 50 are not limited, and any suitable number of FREs 49 and sub-recesses 50 may be used. For example, the flow control elements described herein may include 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or more FREs 49, which may divide the recess 48 into a corresponding number (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or more) of sub-recesses 50. In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7 , the intermediate region 35 of the FCE 13 includes eight FREs 49 that divide the recess 48 into nine sub-recesses 50.

[0046] As noted above, FREs 49 may be used to set the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect upper region 37 about axis A and the degree to which upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to applied fluid flow. More specifically, the number, location, geometry, and physical properties of FREs 49 may individually and collectively affect the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect upper region 37 about axis A and the degree to which upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to fluid flow from front surface 39 to back surface 41. With that in mind, it should be noted that FREs 49 are each configured to extend between upper edge 55 and lower edge 57 of recess 48 or corresponding sub-recess 50. Each FRE 49 is configured to deform under particular conditions (e.g., particular operating temperature, pressure, flow rate, etc.) to regulate the force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect the upper region 37 about axis A and the degree to which the upper region 37 will move in response to applied fluid flow from the front surface 39 to the back surface 41. In other words, each FRE 49 may function as a support extending between the upper edge 55 and lower edge 57 of the recess 48 or corresponding sub-recess 50. By controlling the geometry (e.g., thickness, depth, etc.) of the FRE 49 and its physical properties (e.g., by selection of appropriate materials), the degree to which the corresponding portion of the upper region 37 moves (deflects) about axis A in response to fluid flow from the front surface 39 to the back surface 41 may be controlled.

[0047] With the above in mind, FRE 49 is preferably formed from a material that is compressible in response to an applied force (e.g., a differential pressure). Non-limiting examples of suitable materials that can be used to form FRE 49 include, but are not limited to, elastomeric materials, such as ethylene acrylic elastomers (i.e., AEM or EA elastomers), polyacrylate acrylic (ACM) elastomers, fluorocarbon / fluoroelastomers (FKM), and combinations thereof. Without limitation, all or a portion of FRE 49 is preferably formed from an AEM elastomer for transmission applications. Without limitation, all portions of FCE 13 are preferably formed from the same elastomeric material.

[0048] When multiple FREs 49 are used, each of the multiple FREs 49 may be made of the same material or different materials. For example, the FCE 13 may include a first FRE formed from a first material and a second FRE formed from a second material, where the first material and the second material are the same or different. As will be appreciated, by forming different FREs from different materials (e.g., materials having different stiffnesses), the degree to which the upper region 37 bends (deflects) about axis A along the length of the FCE 13 may be locally controlled. In this manner, each portion of the FCE 13 (more specifically, the upper region 37) may be configured to respond differently to fluid flow than other portions of the FCE 13. Without limitation, in embodiments where multiple FREs are used, each of the multiple FREs is formed from the same material.

[0049]

[0048] The materials used to form the various components of the FCEs described herein may be selected based on one or more factors, such as operating temperature range, operating pressure range, cost, and material compatibility with the contacting fluid, which are all factors in material selection. Material properties and their interactions, as well as the dimensions and geometry of the FCE, may be designed / selected to obtain desired performance for a particular application. As understood in the art, changes in properties may result in modifications to the FCE design geometry to achieve desired performance. For example, material hardness (i.e., as determined by ASTM D2240-15) is one factor that may affect the degree to which one or more components of the FCEs described herein deform in response to a pressure differential. In embodiments, all or a portion of the FCEs described herein are formed from one or more materials having a Shore A hardness in the range of about 50 to about 100, preferably about 60 to about 80. In addition to hardness, changes in volume, tensile strength, and elongation (i.e., as determined by ASTM D471-16a) after exposure to a fluid may affect the behavior and geometry of the FCE. Therefore, it may be desirable to select materials, dimensions, and geometries for the various components of an FCE based on test conditions informed by the conditions the FCE will experience during use in a particular application. Materials that experience minimal or no property change under use conditions may be preferred. Alternatively, in some embodiments, changes in material properties with temperature may be used as part of an intentionally engineered change in FCE behavior. Furthermore, in some embodiments, FCE behavior over one or more temperature ranges may be ignored as part of a larger system design tradeoff.

[0050] Generally, FRE 49 is configured to deform in response to an applied force. This force may be a pressure differential between front surface 39 and rear surface 41 resulting from a fluid flow impinging on front surface 39 of upper region 37. For example, if the fluid flow impinging on front surface 39 of upper region 37 is less than a first pressure P1, the force F1 transmitted to FRE 49 (and thus the pressure differential between front surface 39 and rear surface 41) may be insufficient to deform FRE 49. As a result, upper region 37 may remain substantially undeformed when the pressure of the applied fluid flow is less than P1, maintaining FCE 13 in its default (closed) state. However, when the pressure of the fluid flow impinging on front surface 39 of upper region 37 is equal to or greater than P1, a force F2 is transmitted to FRE 49, where F2>F1 (i.e., the pressure differential between front surface 39 and rear surface 41 is equal to or greater than a first threshold). Force F2 (or pressure differential) is sufficient to compress FRE 49 along axis B, as shown in FIG. 7. As FRE 49 compresses along axis B, at least a portion of upper region 37 deflects (moves) a first degree about axis A. As a result, at least a portion of upper region 37 deforms (moves) toward rear surface 41 of FCE 13. In some cases, at least a portion of middle region 35 may also deform (moves) toward rear surface 41 when the applied fluid flow pressure is greater than or equal to P1.

[0051] In an embodiment, FRE 49 (and upper region 37) may be configured to remain substantially undeformed when the fluid flow impinging on front surface 39 of upper region 37 is less than a first pressure P1 (i.e., when the pressure differential is less than a first threshold). This concept is illustrated in FIG. 12A , which shows FCE 13 in a substantially undeformed configuration in response to fluid flow 59 at a pressure less than P1. On the other hand, FRE 49 may be configured to undergo a first deformation when the fluid flow impinging on front surface 39 of upper region 37 is greater than or equal to P1 but less than a second pressure P2 (i.e., when the pressure differential is greater than or equal to the first threshold but less than a second threshold). In an embodiment, during the first deformation, FRE 49 may compress along axis B to a first degree of compression, as discussed above. Alternatively or additionally, during the first deformation, the FRE 49 may buckle such that at least a portion of the FRE 49 deforms a first degree, e.g., generally along or in the direction of axis A, toward the left and right sides of the FCE 13. In either case, the first deformation causes the upper region 37 to deform (e.g., move) a first amount toward the rear surface 41 of the FCE 13. In other words, the first deformation of the FRE 49 causes the upper region 37 to deflect about axis A by a first deformation amount, moving the FCE 13 from its default (closed) position to a first (e.g., partially open) position. This concept is illustrated in FIG. 12B, which shows the position of the FCE 13 in response to a fluid flow 61 having a pressure P2 greater than P1. As shown, at least a portion of the upper region 37 deforms (e.g., deflects) about axis A toward the rear surface 41. In the embodiment shown, a portion of the intermediate region 35 (eg, adjacent the upper edge 55 ) also deforms toward the rear surface 41 .

[0052] When the applied fluid flow has a pressure P3 greater than P2 (i.e., when the pressure difference between the front surface 39 and the rear surface 41 is equal to or greater than a second threshold), the FRE may be configured to undergo a second deformation that further deforms the upper region 37 toward the rear surface 41, for example, by further rotating the upper region 37 about axis A. This concept is illustrated in FIG. 12C, which shows the position of the FCE 13 in response to a fluid flow 63 having a pressure P3 greater than P2. As shown, the upper region 37 further deforms toward the rear surface 41 (e.g., by deflection / rotation about axis A). Similarly, at least a portion of the middle region 35 (also proximate the upper edge 55) further deforms toward the rear surface 41.

[0053] In embodiments, during the second deformation, FRE 49 compresses along axis B to a second degree of compression, the second degree of compression being greater than the first degree of compression. Alternatively or additionally, during the second deformation, FRE 49 may buckle such that at least a portion of FRE 49 deforms toward the left and right sides of FCE 13 (e.g., generally along or in the direction of axis A) to a second degree of buckling, the second degree of buckling being greater than the first degree of buckling. In either case, the second deformation causes upper region 37 to deform (e.g., move) toward back surface 41 of FCE 13 by a second amount of deformation, the second amount of deformation being greater than the first amount of deformation. In other words, the second deformation of FRE 49 causes upper region 37 to deflect about axis A by a second amount of deformation, moving FCE 13 to a second position that is more open than the first position.

[0054] In an embodiment, the second position is a fully open position, meaning that the upper region 37 is maximally deflected about axis A. Alternatively, the second position of the upper region 37 is a second partially open position. In such a case, the FRE 49 may be configured to undergo a third, fourth, fifth, etc. deformation in response to a fluid stream impinging on the front surface 39 of the upper region 37 having a pressure equal to or greater than a corresponding third, fourth, fifth, etc. pressure (P3, P4, P5, etc.; i.e., when the pressure difference between the front surface 39 and the rear surface 41 is equal to or greater than a third, fourth, fifth, etc. threshold). The third, fourth, fifth, etc. deformation may cause the upper region 37 to move a corresponding third, fourth, fifth, etc. degree about axis A, further opening the FCE 13.

[0055] In embodiments, FRE 49 is configured so that FCE 13 has a linear or nonlinear response to the applied fluid flow. In such cases, FRE 49 may be configured to deform differently and / or to different degrees in response to different fluid pressures, thereby deflecting upper region 37 to different degrees. For example, as described above, FRE 49 may be configured to undergo a first deformation when the applied fluid flow has a pressure greater than P1 and less than P2 (a pressure difference greater than or equal to a first threshold), and a second deformation when the applied fluid flow has a pressure greater than P2 (a pressure difference greater than or equal to a second threshold). In such cases, the amount of deformation (e.g., degree of compression, degree of buckling, etc.) of FRE 49 occurring during the first deformation may be the same as or different from the amount of deformation of FRE 49 occurring during the second deformation. When the amount of FRE deformation occurring during the first deformation is the same or substantially the same as the amount of FRE deformation occurring during the second deformation, the degree to which the upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to the first and second deformations may be the same or substantially the same. That is, the degree to which the upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to the first deformation may differ from the degree to which it deflects about axis A in response to the second deformation by less than 2%. In such cases, the FCE 13 may be considered to exhibit a linear response to an applied fluid flow. In contrast, when the amount of FRE deformation occurring during the first deformation is substantially different from the amount of FRE deformation occurring during the second deformation, the degree to which the upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to the first and second deformations may be substantially different. That is, the degree to which the upper region 37 deflects about axis A in response to the first deformation may differ from the degree to which it deflects about axis A in response to the second deformation by more than 2%, e.g., 3%, 4%, or 5% or more. In such cases, the FCE 13 may be considered to exhibit a nonlinear response to an applied fluid flow.

[0056] As described above, the number, geometry, and arrangement of FREs 49 may be configured to control the performance of FCE 13, for example, by setting the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deform FREs 49 and, therefore, whether and to what extent upper region 37 deforms (deflects) about axis A toward back surface 41 of FCE 13 in response to fluid flow. For example, as described above, any suitable number of FREs 49 may be used, and their distribution within recess 48 may be set in any suitable manner. Generally, as the number of FREs 49 (i.e., FRE density) within a particular area of ​​recess 48 increases, the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect upper region 37 about axis A increases. Similarly, as the FRE density decreases, the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect upper region 37 about axis A decreases. If zero FREs are used, the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deflect upper region 37 about axis A may be primarily controlled solely by the configuration of recess 48.

[0057] The geometry (e.g., height, width, shape, etc.) of each FRE 49 can also affect the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FCE in response to an applied fluid flow. As a result, it may be desirable to control the geometry of each FRE 49 and / or compensate for the temperature-dependent behavior of the material used to form the FCE 13 to achieve desired performance characteristics, such as linear vs. nonlinear response, pressure hysteresis, and / or increasing / decreasing fluid flow rate through the FCE 13 based on fluid temperature. For example, by controlling the depth and width of the FRE 49, the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FRE (e.g., by compression or buckling) in response to an applied force (e.g., differential pressure) may be controlled. Controlling the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FRE may adjust the movement of the upper region 37 (i.e., the opening / closing response of the FCE 13) in response to various factors, such as the pressure of the fluid flow incident on the front surface 39, the pressure difference between the front surface 39 and the back surface 41, and the temperature of the fluid.

[0058] In this regard, as best shown in FIG. 7 , FREs 49 may each have a depth D1 and a width W1. Generally, as D1 and / or W1 of FREs 49 increase, the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FRE (e.g., by compression, buckling, etc.) may correspondingly increase. Conversely, as D1 and / or W1 of FREs 49 decrease, the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FRE may correspondingly decrease. Notably, D1 and W1 may have different effects on different types of deformation of FREs. For example, increasing D1 may decrease the amount of force (e.g., differential pressure) required to deform the FRE by compression, but may not affect or may decrease the amount of force required to deform the FRE by buckling. Conversely, decreasing D1 may increase the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deform an FRE by compression, but may have no effect on or increase the amount of force required to deform an FRE by buckling. Similarly, increasing W1 may increase the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deform an FRE by buckling, but may have no effect on or increase or decrease the amount of force required to deform an FRE by compression. Conversely, decreasing W1 may decrease the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deform an FRE by buckling, but may have no effect on or increase or decrease the amount of force (e.g., pressure differential) required to deform an FRE by compression. Thus, controlling D1 and W1 may adjust the response of each FRE 49 to an applied force (e.g., pressure differential between the front surface 39 and the rear surface 41) and, therefore, the degree to which the upper region 37 (or a portion thereof) moves in response to fluid flow incident on its front surface 39.

[0059] The depth D1 and width W1 are not limited, and FREs having any suitable D1 and width W1 may be used. Without limitation, in embodiments, D1 ranges from about 1.5 to about 4.0 mm, such as from about 1.7 to about 3.5 mm, or from about 2.0 to about 3.0 mm. Without limitation, in embodiments, D1 is equal to or greater than the distance between the upper edge 55 or lower edge 57 and the rear wall or recess 48. This concept is illustrated in FIG. 7 , which shows an embodiment in which some FREs 49 have a depth D1 greater than the distance between the rear wall of the recess 48 and its upper and lower edges 55 and 57, and some FREs 49 have a depth D1 equal to the distance between the rear wall of the recess 48 and its upper and lower edges 55 and 57. In these or other embodiments, W1 may range from about 0.7 to about 2.0 mm, such as from about 0.8 to about 1.5 mm, or from about 0.8 to about 1.2 mm.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, FREs 49 each extend to (or from) the rear wall of recess 48, as best shown in FIG. 7. Such a configuration is not required, and FREs 49 need not extend to or from the rear wall of recess 48. In an embodiment, FCE 13 is configured such that a gap exists between the rear wall of recess 48 and one or more FREs.

[0061] While the figures show various examples in which FRE 49 has a linear shape extending from upper edge 55 and lower edge 57, and such FREs are useful, the FREs described herein are not limited to such configurations, and FREs having any suitable shape may be used. For example, FRE 49 may have a y-shape, an asterisk-shape, a c-shape, a geometric shape (e.g., having 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more sides), an irregular shape, or a combination thereof.

[0062] Consistent with the above discussion, the upper region 37 is generally configured to control the amount of fluid flow through the FCE 13 in response to various factors, such as the temperature, viscosity, and pressure of the fluid. As discussed above, the upper region 37 may be configured to remain substantially undeformed (i.e., in a closed position) in response to a fluid flow incident on its front surface 39 at a pressure less than a first pressure P1. As best shown in FIG. 4 , in the closed position, the upper region 37 may extend above the frame element 5 (more specifically, above the perimeter frame 7) toward the upper housing cover 1. When the pressure of the fluid flow on the front surface 39 exceeds P1, the upper region 37 may deflect toward the rear surface 41 about axis A. This is generally shown in FIG. 12B , which shows the upper region 37 deflected a first degree in response to a fluid flow 61 having a pressure equal to or greater than P2, which is greater than P1. That is, the upper region 37 may move from the closed position to a first open position. In the first open position, a space may develop or become larger between the upper housing cover 1 and the upper region 37 (more specifically, its tab 51), allowing a greater amount of fluid to flow through the FCE 13.

[0063] In some cases, the upper region 37 may move further about axis A (e.g., to an additional open position) in response to an increase in fluid pressure and / or fluid temperature. For example, as discussed above, the upper region 37 may move to a first degree (i.e., a first open position) when fluid is incident on its front face 39 at a pressure P2 greater than P1 but less than pressure P3. In such a case, the upper region 37 may move to a second degree (i.e., a second open position) when the pressure of the fluid incident on the front face 39 is equal to or greater than P2, the second open position being further open than the first open position and the second degree being greater than the first degree. This concept is illustrated in FIG. 12C, which shows the upper region 37 deflected a second degree about axis A in response to a fluid flow 63 having a pressure P3 greater than or equal to P2.

[0064] 7, 10, and 11, the upper region 37 may include one or more tabs 51 and one or more upper openings 53. Generally, the number, size, and arrangement of the tabs 51 and upper openings 53 are configured to control the amount of fluid flowing through the FCE 13 when the upper region 37 is in the closed position or one or more open positions. In that regard, the tabs 51 are generally configured to extend toward the upper housing cover 1 (particularly when the FCE 113 is in the closed position), as shown in FIG. 4. In the closed position, the tabs 51 may prevent the passage of fluid in the space between the upper housing cover 1 and the frame element 5, e.g., between the second medium 11 and the first medium 9. In that regard, the tabs 51 may be shaped by or conform to the shape of one or more features on the inward-facing surface of the upper cover 1. More specifically, the tabs 51 may be configured to abut one or more features on the inwardly facing surface of the top cover 3 under certain operating conditions, such as certain operating temperatures and pressures. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the size, number, shape, and location of the tabs 51 can affect the degree to which the FCE 13 impedes fluid flow in its closed and open positions. Therefore, it may be desirable to control the location, size, number, and shape of the tabs 51 so that the FCE 13 operates in a desired manner. With this in mind, any suitable number, size, and shape of tabs 51 may be used, and they may be positioned in any suitable manner. For example, in embodiments, the FCE 13 includes an upper region 37 that includes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more tabs. If a single tab 51 is used, the tab 51 may extend continuously between the left side 40 and the right side 42 of the FCE 13, and more specifically, the upper region 37. If two or more tabs 51 are used, the size and location of each tab may be determined based on the size and location of the top opening 53. In an embodiment, the top region 37 comprises at least a first tab having a first tab width and a second tab having a second tab width, where the first and second tab widths are the same or different from one another.

[0065] The top openings 53 may be provided to allow passive fluid flow through the FCE 13 even when the FCE 13 is in a closed state. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the relative amount of fluid that may passively flow through the FCE 13 in a closed state may be set based on the size, number, shape, and location of the top openings 53. In that regard, any suitable number, size, and configuration of top openings 53 may be used, and the top openings 53 may be positioned at any suitable location along the top region 37. In embodiments, the FCE 13 includes a top region that includes 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more top openings 53. If a single top opening 53 is used, the top region 37 may include two tabs spaced apart by the single top opening 53. If the top region 37 includes multiple top openings 53, each of the multiple openings 53 may at least partially define (or limit) at least one of the corresponding multiple tabs 51. As described above, the size and location of the tabs 51 may be set based at least in part on one or more of the plurality of top openings 53. As will be appreciated, the size and number of the top openings 53 affect the area between the upper housing cover 1 and the frame element 5 that is obstructed by the tabs 51 when the FCE 13 is in the closed and open positions. Thus, controlling the size and number of the top openings 53 may set the relative amount of fluid that may flow through the FCE 13 in the closed and / or open positions. Generally, increasing the number and size (area) of the top openings 53 will decrease the size (area) of the tabs 51, allowing a greater amount of fluid to flow through the FCE 13 in the closed position. In contrast, decreasing the number and size (area) of the top openings 53 will increase the size (area) of the tabs 51, decreasing the amount of fluid flow through the FCE 13 in the closed position. As will be appreciated, controlling the size and location of the top openings 53 used in the upper region 37 may adjust the amount of fluid that may flow through the FCE 13 along the length of the FCE 13 (i.e., between the left side surface 40 and the right side surface 42).

[0066]

[0065] As can be seen from the above, the flow control elements described herein may be highly customized to provide desired control over fluid flow for a variety of applications. While the above discussion has focused on embodiments of flow control elements that are particularly suited to fluid filtration applications, and particularly transmission suction filters, the flow control elements are not limited thereto and may be adapted for use in a myriad of applications in which it may be desirable to control fluid flow based on fluid pressure, temperature, or a combination thereof.

[0067]

[0066] The terms and expressions used in this specification are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and in the use of such terms and expressions there is no intention to exclude equivalents to the features (or portions thereof) shown and described, recognizing that various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Accordingly, the claims are intended to cover all such equivalents.

Claims

1. 1. A flow control element for a fluidic device, comprising a body having a front surface, a rear surface, a left side surface, a right side surface, a base region, a top region, and an intermediate region between the base region and the top region, the flow control element comprising: the flow control element is configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position in response to a pressure differential between the front surface and the back surface resulting from a fluid flow; In the first position, the middle region and the upper region are substantially undeformed; In the second position, at least a portion of the upper region is deformed toward the rear surface; In the third position, at least a portion of the intermediate region is deformed toward the rear surface.

2. an axis A extends through the intermediate region and through the left and right sides; 2. The flow control element of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the flow control element bends about the axis A as the flow control element transitions from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the third position.

3. the base region has a thickness T1 between the left side and the right side; the intermediate region comprises a recess extending between the left side surface and the right side surface, the recess having a thickness T2 between the left side surface and the right side surface; 2. The flow control element of claim 1, wherein T2<T1.

4. the recess has a lower edge and an upper edge; 4. The flow control element of claim 3 , wherein the flow control element further comprises at least one flexure limiting element extending between the lower edge and the upper edge, the at least one flexure limiting element configured to limit the amount of pressure differential required to transition the flow control element from the first position to the second position, and from the second position to the third position.

5. The flow control element of claim 4 , wherein the at least one flexure restriction element divides the recess into a plurality of sub-recesses.

6. The flow control element of claim 4 , wherein the at least one flexion restriction element comprises a plurality of flexion restriction elements, each extending between the lower edge and the upper edge.

7. the upper region includes a plurality of tabs including at least a first tab and a second tab adjacent to the first tab; the upper region further comprising at least one upper opening between the first tab and the second tab; The flow control element of claim 1 , wherein the at least one top opening extends through the front and back surfaces to define a space between the first tab and the second tab.

8. the upper region includes a plurality of tabs including at least a first tab and a second tab adjacent to the first tab; the upper region further comprising at least one upper opening between the first tab and the second tab; The flow control element of claim 4 , wherein the at least one upper opening extends through the front and rear surfaces to define a space between the first tab and the second tab.

9. The flow control element of claim 8 , wherein the at least one flexion restriction element comprises a plurality of flexion restriction elements extending between the lower edge and the upper edge.

10. 2. The flow control element of claim 1, wherein the base region comprises at least one standoff extending from the back surface, the standoff configured to define a space between the back surface of the flow control element and a sidewall of the mounting location when the flow control element is mounted to the mounting location of the fluidic device.

11. 11. The flow control element of claim 10, wherein the base region further comprises a first retention element extending from the back surface, the first retention element configured to interact with a second retention element of the mounting location to retain the flow control element within the mounting location when the flow control element is mounted to the mounting location.

12. The flow control element of claim 1 , wherein the base region further comprises at least one lower opening extending from the front surface to the rear surface.

13. the at least one lower opening includes a plurality of lower openings, each extending from the front surface to the back surface, including at least a first lower opening and a second lower opening adjacent to the first lower opening; The flow control element of claim 12 , wherein the base region includes at least a first standoff extending from the back surface to define a space between the back surface of the flow control element and a sidewall of an attachment location in the fluidic device.

14. a frame element having an attachment location; a flow control element disposed within the mounting location, the flow control element comprising a body having a front surface, a rear surface, a left side surface, a right side surface, a base region, a top region, and an intermediate region between the base region and the top region; Equipped with the flow control element is configured to move between a first position, a second position, and a third position in response to a pressure differential between the front surface and the back surface resulting from a fluid flow; In the first position, the middle region and the upper region are substantially undeformed; In the second position, at least a portion of the upper region is deformed toward the rear surface; In the third position, at least a portion of the intermediate region is deformed toward the rear surface. Fluid equipment.

15. an axis A extends through the intermediate region and through the left and right sides; The fluidic device of claim 14 , wherein at least a portion of the flow control element bends about the axis A as the flow control element transitions from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the third position.

16. the base region has a thickness T1 between the left side and the right side; the intermediate region comprises a recess extending between the left side surface and the right side surface, the recess having a thickness T2 between the left side surface and the right side surface; The fluidic device of claim 14 , wherein T2<T1.

17. the recess has a lower edge and an upper edge; 17. The fluidic device of claim 16, wherein the flow control element further comprises at least one flexure limiting element extending between the lower edge and the upper edge, the at least one flexure limiting element configured to limit the amount of pressure differential required to transition the flow control element from the first position to the second position and from the second position to the third position.

18. The fluidic device of claim 17 , wherein the at least one flexion limiting element divides the recess into a plurality of sub-recesses.

19. The fluidic device of claim 17 , wherein the at least one flex restraint element comprises a plurality of flex restraint elements, each extending between the lower edge and the upper edge.

20. the upper region includes a plurality of tabs including at least a first tab and a second tab adjacent to the first tab; the upper region further comprising at least one upper opening between the first tab and the second tab; The fluidic device of claim 14 , wherein the at least one top opening extends through the front and back surfaces to define a space between the first tab and the second tab.

21. the upper region includes a plurality of tabs including at least a first tab and a second tab adjacent to the first tab; the upper region further comprising at least one upper opening between the first tab and the second tab; 18. The fluidic device of claim 17, wherein the at least one top opening extends through the front and back surfaces to define a space between the first tab and the second tab.

22. The fluidic device of claim 21 , wherein the at least one flex restraining element comprises a plurality of flex restraining elements extending between the lower edge and the upper edge.

23. the mounting location comprises a first mounting sidewall, a second mounting sidewall, and a bottom; the base region includes at least one standoff extending from the back surface; The fluidic device of claim 14 , wherein there is a space between the back surface of the flow control element and the second mounting sidewall, the space being at least partially defined by the at least one standoff.

24. 24. The fluidic device of claim 23, wherein the base region further comprises at least one lower opening extending from the front surface to the rear surface.

25. further comprising an upper housing shell and a lower housing shell; the frame element comprises a perimeter frame and at least a first filter media; the perimeter frame comprising a first pair of frame sidewalls and a second pair of frame sidewalls; 15. The fluidic device of claim 14, wherein at least two of the upper housing shell, the lower housing shell, and the surrounding frame are coupled together such that the frame elements define a chamber between at least a first inward-facing surface of the upper housing shell and a second inward-facing surface of the lower housing shell.

26. the base region includes a first retention element extending from the back surface of the flow control element; the mounting location comprises a first mounting sidewall, a second mounting sidewall, a bottom, and a second retention element extending from the second mounting sidewall; 26. The fluidic device of claim 25, wherein the flow control element is at least partially coupled to the mounting location by interaction between the first retention element and the second retention element.

27. the first filter media has a first filtration density; 27. The fluidic device of claim 26, wherein the frame element further comprises a second filter media having a second filtration density that is the same as or different from the first filtration density.

28. the first filter media is divided into a plurality of rows of first media; the second filter media is divided into a plurality of rows of second media; 28. The fluidic device of claim 27, wherein the number of the first rows of media is the same as or different from the number of the second rows of media.

29. 30. The fluidic device of claim 28, wherein the number of the first rows of media is different from the number of the second rows of media.

30. the lower housing shell includes a fluid inlet for fluid flow into the fluid device; 26. The fluidic device of claim 25, wherein the frame element comprises a fluid outlet for the fluid to exit the fluidic device.

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