Valve device, liquid filter, filter assembly, and method

Abstract

The valve device includes a valve shaft having a fluid flow bore and valve gear projections or teeth projecting from the valve shaft and constructed and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft. The valve device can be used in a filter assembly having cartridge projections, such as gear teeth, for meshing with the valve gear teeth.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application was filed as a PCT International patent application on July 30, 2021, and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 059,682, filed July 31, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 141,185, filed January 25, 2021, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to valves. The present disclosure particularly relates to valves usable with liquid filters, as well as said filters, filter heads, and filter assemblies, where the filter assemblies utilize serviceable filter cartridges. The liquid filters can be used in a variety of applications. Assemblies, and methods of preparation and use are provided. [Background technology]

[0003] Valves can be used to control the amount of fluid flow through a conduit in a variety of applications. One exemplary application is in filters, such as filters for liquids.

[0004] Liquid filters are used in a variety of applications, for example, to filter lubricating fluids, fuels, or hydraulic fluids. During use, the liquid to be filtered is passed through a filter media, where filtration occurs. A well-known configuration is to position the filter media as a cylinder surrounding a central clean liquid volume, with filtration flow occurring from the outside to the inside (outside to inside) through the filter media. In other arrangements, filtration flow is from the inside to the outside (inside to outside) of the cartridge.

[0005] In many instances, the filter media is provided in the form of a filter cartridge extending between first and second, opposing end caps. Examples of filter cartridges utilizing such a structure are described, for example, in WO 02 / 070869 A1, published September 12, 2002 (FIGS. 1 and 2), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] In many assemblies, the filter cartridge is structured as a removable and replaceable (i.e., serviceable) component, see for example WO 02 / 070869 A1, Figures 1 and 2. It is desirable to provide a liquid filter design that allows for desired options in the construction of the service cartridge.

[0007] The filter cartridge is typically selectively attachable and detachable to a filter head. The filter head includes ports for unfiltered and filtered (clean) liquid. The filter head may also include a valve arrangement for controlling the flow of liquid to the filter cartridge. It is desirable to provide a valve design that allows desired options in the operation of the valve and in some applications in relation to the filter head and service cartridge. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Generally, a valve arrangement is provided that includes a valve shaft having a fluid flow bore and valve gear teeth projecting from the valve shaft and constructed and arranged to receive forces that rotate the valve shaft.

[0009] The shaft has opposite first and second ends with a longitudinal axis passing through the first and second ends, and the fluid flow bore has a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0010] In many embodiments, the fluid flow bore has a non-circular perimeter shape.

[0011] In many embodiments, the fluid flow bore has an elliptical perimeter shape.

[0012] Valve gear teeth may protrude from the second end of the shaft.

[0013] Valve gear teeth may protrude radially from the second end of the shaft.

[0014] The valve gear teeth may include at least two teeth spaced circumferentially from one another.

[0015] The valve gear teeth may include at least three circumferentially spaced apart teeth.

[0016] The valve gear teeth may include 2 to 10 circumferentially spaced apart teeth.

[0017] In some examples, the valve gear teeth are spur gear valve gear teeth.

[0018] Generally, the valve device can be used with a liquid filter assembly having an unfiltered liquid inlet, a filter cartridge for filtering the incoming liquid, and a filtered liquid outlet, and the valve device controls the volume of liquid flow through the unfiltered liquid inlet to the filter cartridge.

[0019] In another aspect, a filter cartridge is provided that includes a filter media construction and a set of cartridge projections attached to the filter media construction.

[0020] The cartridge projections may be gear teeth.

[0021] The cartridge projection may be part of the ring member.

[0022] The cartridge projections may be circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0023] The cartridge projections may extend radially outward.

[0024] The filter media construction can include a tubular-shaped pleated media enclosing an open interior volume having first and second opposite ends. The cartridge can include a first end cap secured to the first end of the filter media construction, the first end cap having an opening in communication with the open interior volume.

[0025] The ring member may be part of the first end cap.

[0026] The filter cartridge may also include a radially oriented seal member secured to the first end cap.

[0027] The pleated media may have inner pleat tips and outer pleat tips, and the seal member may be positioned radially spaced from both the inner pleat tips and the outer pleat tips.

[0028] The ring member may have a projection spaced radially between the inner and outer pleat tips, and the projection may be spaced radially inward from the outer pleat tips.

[0029] The first end cap may include a seal member holder extending axially from the first end cap and located between the inner pleat tip and the outer pleat tip. The holder may have a radial groove for retaining the seal member. The ring member may be an integral part of the seal member holder.

[0030] In some embodiments, the seal member extends radially inward and the projections on the ring member extend radially outward.

[0031] In some configurations, the cartridge projections protrude from the radial walls of the ring members.

[0032] Some examples include cartridge projections that protrude from a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the filter media construction.

[0033] In some embodiments, the cartridge projections are spur gear teeth.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge further includes a second end cap secured to a second end of the filter media construction.

[0035] The filter cartridge may further include a housing having an interior that holds the filter media construction therein.

[0036] The housing can have outwardly directed threads for connecting with the filter head.

[0037] In some embodiments, the filter media construction may be permanently secured within the housing.

[0038] In some embodiments, the filter media construction may be removably secured within the housing.

[0039] In some embodiments, each protrusion has a height of 0.12 to 0.34 inches.

[0040] In some embodiments, each projection has a height of about 13 / 35 inches.

[0041] In some embodiments, each protrusion is a gear tooth sized so that the rotation angle of one tooth is between 7.2 and 20 degrees.

[0042] In some examples, each protrusion is sized such that the rotation angle of one tooth is approximately 10-11 degrees.

[0043] In some embodiments, there are 50 or fewer protrusions.

[0044] In some embodiments, there are 18 or more protrusions.

[0045] In some embodiments, there are about 43 to 47 protrusions.

[0046] In another aspect, a filter head apparatus is provided. The filter head apparatus includes a fluid inlet and a valve apparatus as variously characterized above, wherein the valve gear teeth are constructed and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft between an open position and a closed position. The open position aligns the fluid flow bore with the fluid inlet, and the closed position blocks fluid flow from the fluid inlet. The valve apparatus can further include a torsion spring for holding the valve shaft in the closed position when no force is applied to the valve gear teeth.

[0047] In another aspect, a filter assembly is provided that includes a filter head as previously characterized and a filter cartridge as variously characterized above removably secured to the filter head, wherein cartridge projections of the filter cartridge apply a force against valve gear teeth to move a valve shaft between an open position and a closed position.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge projections are gear teeth and the ratio of valve gear teeth to cartridge gear teeth is about 1:2.5 to 1:5.

[0049] In some examples, the ratio of valve gear teeth to cartridge gear teeth is about 1:2.69.

[0050] In some examples, the height of the valve gear teeth and cartridge gear teeth is approximately 0.12 to 0.34 inches.

[0051] In some examples, the height of the valve gear teeth and cartridge gear teeth is approximately 13 / 35 inches.

[0052] In some examples, the valve shaft has an outer diameter of about 17-18 mm, and the bore and valve shaft have a diameter of about 9-10 mm.

[0053] In some examples, the valve shaft can have an axis of rotation that is parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

[0054] In some examples, the valve shaft can have an axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

[0055] In some examples, the filter cartridge is a spin-on cartridge that includes a filter element permanently secured within an outer housing, which is removably attached to the filter head.

[0056] In another embodiment, the filter cartridge comprises a bowl-cartridge assembly including a filter element removably positioned within a bowl, the bowl-in removably attached to the filter head.

[0057] In some exemplary embodiments, the bowl-cartridge assembly further includes a coalescer element within the filter cartridge.

[0058] The filter element and bowl may, in examples, include an anti-rotation feature.

[0059] The anti-rotation mechanism may include a plurality of tabs projecting radially from the filter element and a plurality of slots along the inner wall of the bowl that receive the tabs.

[0060] The anti-rotation feature may include at least one protrusion extending outwardly from the end cap.

[0061] The anti-rotation feature may include a pocket feature configured to receive a protrusion on the filter housing.

[0062] In a further aspect, a method is provided that includes: rotating a filter assembly having first threads relative to mating threads on a filter head, where rotating the filter assembly rotates a set of cartridge protrusions; axially translating a first end cap of the filter assembly into the filter head by rotating the filter assembly, where axially translating the first end cap into the filter head positions the cartridge protrusions to operatively engage protrusions on a valve shaft in the filter head; and opening a valve integrated with the valve shaft in the filter head by rotating the protrusions on the valve shaft.

[0063] The step of opening the valve may include rotating the valve about an axis of rotation.

[0064] In some instances, the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the central axis, and in some instances, the axis of rotation is parallel to the central axis.

[0065] In some examples, the valve is a ball valve.

[0066] In some examples, the cartridge projection includes a drive gear in the form of one of a bevel gear or a worm gear.

[0067] The concepts disclosed herein relate to a filter assembly incorporating a drive gear rotatably fixed to the filter assembly. Rotation of the filter assembly causes rotation of the drive gear, which can be used to transmit rotational motion to other components, such as a driven gear. To install the filter assembly into a filtration system, the filter assembly is manually rotated so that interlocking threads defined by the filter assembly and the filter head engage with each other. Rotation of the filter assembly relative to the filter head during installation opens a fluid flow path to the filter assembly. In particular, rotation of the drive gear causes rotation of a driven gear within the filter head. The driven gear is operatively coupled to a valve in the fluid flow path, which opens when the driven gear rotates.

[0068] In some embodiments, the technology relates to a filter assembly. A filter media is disposed around a central opening having a central axis. The filter media has a first media end and a second media end. A first end cap is coupled to the first media end of the filter media. The first end cap defines a central opening and a drive gear around the central opening. A filter housing is coupled to the first end cap and has a first housing end and a second housing end. The first housing end defines a housing opening. The second housing end surrounds the second media end. A screw thread is coupled to the filter housing and the first end cap, the screw thread being disposed around the central opening and configured to engage with a filter head.

[0069] In some such embodiments, the drive gear is selected from the group consisting of a bevel gear and a worm gear drive. Additionally or alternatively, the first end cap and the threads form a single, integral structure. Additionally or alternatively, the filter housing is secured to an outer surface of the first end cap toward the first housing end. Additionally or alternatively, the first end cap has a seal structure disposed about the central opening. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure is positioned radially between the drive gear and the threads. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines an axial seal. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines a radial seal. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly includes a housing seal disposed about the filter housing toward the first housing end. Additionally or alternatively, the threads are integral with the filter housing. Additionally or alternatively, the first end cap has a housing engagement member having a rotation-blocking feature configured to be received by a mating feature on the filter housing. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation-blocking feature may include a protrusion extending outwardly from the first end cap, and the mating feature on the filter housing may be a slot configured to receive the protrusion.

[0070] Some embodiments relate to a filter element. The filter media is disposed around a central opening having a central axis. The filter media has a first media end and a second media end. A first end cap is coupled to the first media end of the filter media. The first end cap defines a central opening and a drive gear around the central opening. The first end cap has a housing engagement member with a rotation-blocking feature.

[0071] In some such embodiments, the rotation-preventing feature is configured to engage a mating feature on the filter housing. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation-preventing feature includes a protrusion extending outward from the first end cap. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation-preventing feature includes a plurality of protrusions extending radially outward from the first end cap. Additionally or alternatively, the rotation-preventing feature includes a pocket mechanism configured to receive a protrusion feature on the filter housing. Additionally or alternatively, the drive gear is selected from the group consisting of a bevel gear and a worm gear drive. Additionally or alternatively, the first end cap further includes a seal structure disposed about the central opening. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines an axial seal. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines a radial seal.

[0072] Some embodiments relate to a filter system. The filter head defines a filter assembly opening having a first thread therearound and a fluid flow path selectively extending to the filter assembly opening. The filter head includes a valve disposed in the fluid flow path, the valve having an open position and a closed position. The system includes a filter assembly having a filter media disposed around a central opening having a central axis. The filter media defines a first end and a second end. A first end cap is coupled to the first end of the filter media. A mating thread is present around the first end cap, and the mating thread is configured to engage the first thread of the filter head upon rotation of the filter assembly relative to the filter head. The meshing gear device has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion being a component of the filter head and the second portion being a component of the filter assembly. The meshing gear device is operatively coupled to the valve to translate the valve from the open position to the closed position.

[0073] In some such embodiments, the system includes a seal structure configured to form a seal between the filter head and the first end cap around the central opening. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure is positioned radially inward from the mating threads. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines an axial seal. Additionally or alternatively, the seal structure defines a radial seal. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the meshing gearing includes a ratchet gear. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the meshing gearing includes one of the group consisting of a pinion gear and a worm gear. Additionally or alternatively, the valve includes a ball valve. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the meshing gearing defines an axis of rotation perpendicular to the central axis. Additionally or alternatively, the first portion of the meshing gearing defines an axis of rotation parallel to the central axis. Additionally or alternatively, a filter housing is secured to the first end cap, and the filter housing and filter head encase a filter media. Additionally or alternatively, the system includes a housing seal disposed about the filter housing, the housing seal configured to be positioned between the filter housing and the filter head.

[0074] Some embodiments relate to a method in which a filter assembly having a first thread is rotated relative to a mating thread of a filter head. Rotating the filter assembly rotates a drive gear, which is integral with a first end cap of the filter assembly about a central axis. Rotating the filter assembly causes the first end cap of the filter assembly to translate axially into the filter head. Axial translation of the first end cap into the filter head positions the drive gear to operatively engage with a driven gear of the filter head. Rotating the drive gear rotates the driven gear, thereby opening a valve in the filter head.

[0075] In some such embodiments, rotating the valve about the axis of rotation opens the valve. Additionally or alternatively, the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the central axis. Additionally or alternatively, the axis of rotation is parallel to the central axis. Additionally or alternatively, the valve is a ball valve. Additionally or alternatively, the drive gear is a bevel gear. Additionally or alternatively, the drive gear is a worm gear drive.

[0076] It should be noted that not all of the specific features described herein need be incorporated into a device for the device to have some selected benefit according to the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a valve apparatus constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a system using the valve arrangement of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a liquid filter assembly including a liquid filter head device incorporating the valve device of FIG. 1; [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge used in the filter assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the filter assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a side view of the partially closed valve of the filter assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a top view of the partially closed valve of the filter assembly of FIG. 3. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing process tolerances for various tooth heights for gears used in the concepts herein. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a portion of the valve assembly and filter cartridge. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic view similar to FIG. 9 of a portion of a valve assembly and filter cartridge with teeth of different sizes than those in FIG. 9. [Figure 11]FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a valve assembly and filter cartridge, according to one aspect. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of a valve assembly and filter cartridge, according to one aspect. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a top view of the valve arrangement in the filter assembly with no filter installed, the valve closed, and the valve gear in a neutral position. [Figure 14] 14 is a view similar to FIG. 13 with the filter cartridge installed and the valve in the open position; [Figure 15] 15 is a view similar to FIG. 14 showing the filter cartridge removal position with the spring returning to its neutral position once the filter cartridge is fully removed. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter assembly using a valve arrangement, illustrating areas for manufacturing tolerance considerations. [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a spin-on filter assembly that can be used in assemblies such as those described above. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the spin-on filter assembly of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge usable in a bowl-cartridge assembly. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a bowl-cartridge assembly according to another embodiment that can be used in assemblies such as those described above. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 21. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge usable with the bowl-cartridge assembly of FIGS. 21 and 22. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a portion of a filter cartridge usable in the bowl-cartridge assembly. [Figure 25]FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a portion of a bowl-cartridge assembly with the cartridge of FIG. 24 installed in the bowl. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of a bowl used in the bowl-cartridge assembly of FIG. [Figure 27] FIG. 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of a filter cartridge as described herein, showing dimension lines illustrating relationships between cartridge features. [Figure 28] 1 illustrates an exemplary filter system consistent with embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 29] FIG. 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a first exemplary filter element consistent with embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 30] FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a second exemplary filter element consistent with embodiments disclosed herein. [Figure 31] FIG. 29 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a first exemplary filter assembly consistent with the system of FIG. 28. [Figure 32] FIG. 29 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a second exemplary filter assembly consistent with the system of FIG. 28. [Figure 33] FIG. 29 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a third exemplary filter assembly consistent with the system of FIG. 28. [Figure 34] FIG. 29 is a first perspective cross-sectional view of a first exemplary system consistent with FIG. 28. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a cross-sectional view of the filter head consistent with FIG. 34. [Figure 36] FIG. 35 is a second perspective cross-sectional view of the first exemplary system of FIG. 34. [Figure 37] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary system consistent with FIG. 28. [Figure 38] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view of a third exemplary system consistent with FIG. 28. [Figure 39] 1 is a flowchart consistent with various embodiments. [Figure 40] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge such as the cartridge of FIG. 19 having an alternative projection. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 40. [Figure 42] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge such as the cartridge of FIG. 19 having an alternative projection. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 42. [Figure 44] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative protrusion. [Figure 45] FIG. 45 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 44. [Figure 46] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative protrusion. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 46. [Figure 48] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 48. [Figure 50] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 50. [Figure 52] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 53] FIG. 53 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 52. [Figure 54] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 54. [Figure 56] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 57]FIG. 57 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 56. [Figure 58] 20 is a perspective view of an end cap for a filter cartridge, such as the cartridge of FIG. 19, having an alternative projection. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a top view of the end cap of FIG. 58. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0078] The present technology may be more fully understood and appreciated in view of the following detailed description of various embodiments taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0079] The figures are drawn primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Additionally, various structures / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), etc., may be shown diagrammatically or may be omitted from some or all of the figures to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments or where the inclusion of such structures / components is not necessary for an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described herein. However, the absence of showing / depicting such structures / components in a particular figure should not be construed as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.

[0080] Detailed Description A. Valve equipment, application for general use 1 illustrates one embodiment of a valve apparatus 50 according to the principles of the present disclosure. The valve apparatus 50 includes a valve shaft 52. A fluid flow bore 54 passes through the shaft 52. In particular, the shaft 50 has opposite first and second ends 56, 57, with a longitudinal axis 58 passing through the first and second ends 56, 57. The fluid flow bore 54 has a central axis 60 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 58 of the shaft 52.

[0081] The valve arrangement 50 further includes protrusions, which may be gear teeth 62. The valve gear teeth 62 protrude from the valve shaft 52 and are constructed and arranged to receive forces that tend to rotate the valve shaft 52 about the longitudinal axis 58.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the valve gear teeth 62 protrude from the second end 57 of the shaft 52. As shown, the valve gear teeth 62 protrude radially from the second end 57 of the shaft 52.

[0083] Although many embodiments are possible, generally, the gear teeth 62 include at least two individual teeth 64 that are circumferentially spaced from one another. Often, there are at least three teeth 64 that are circumferentially spaced from one another. For example, there may be between two and ten teeth 64 that are circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0084] Shaft 52 may be generally cylindrical with an outer circumference at second end 57. Gear teeth 62, in this embodiment, do not circumnavigate the entire circumference of shaft 52. Rather, they extend along a limited arc of circumference, for example, along an arc of 180° or less, and in some cases, along an arc of 150° or less, 120° or less, or in some cases, 90° or less.

[0085] The gear teeth 62 can have many different geometric shapes. In the example shown, the gear teeth 62 are spur gear teeth 66.

[0086] The fluid flow bore 54 can have many different shapes. In particular, the shape can be sized to help optimize fluid flow therethrough in the system of use. In the example shown, the bore 54 has a non-circular perimeter shape. The shape can be elliptical or racetrack.

[0087] Attention is directed to Figure 2, which shows a schematic diagram of a system 70 employing valve apparatus 50. In system 70, an inlet liquid flow path is shown at 72. Inlet liquid flow path 72 enters valve apparatus 50, which controls the volume of flow therethrough. Flow permitted through valve apparatus 50 enters system component 74. System component 74 processes the fluid entering it in some way, after which the processed fluid exits component 74 through an outlet path or conduit 76.

[0088] Applications for system 70 may vary. In one example, system 70 may be a filter assembly. Component 74 may be a filter cartridge that operates to filter liquid flowing therein through inlet passage 72, with the flow volume controlled by valve device 50. The filtered liquid then exits the filter device through outlet conduit 76.

[0089] Generally, gear valve apparatus 50 operates by applying force to gear teeth 62, which causes valve apparatus 50 to rotate about longitudinal axis 58. As it rotates, valve apparatus 50 moves bore 54, which either moves bore 54 away from the fluid flow conduit so that the conduit is fully or partially blocked, or moves the bore into alignment with the fluid flow conduit so that the conduit is unblocked and fluid can flow freely therethrough.

[0090] An example is shown in Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a side view of valve device 50 in a partially closed state. While the shaft at 52 can be seen, bore 54 is shown to be only partially aligned with open flow passage 78. Figure 7 is a top view of Figure 6, showing valve device 50 in a partially closed state. The flow passage is indicated at 80, and it can be seen how the flow passage is partially blocked at 81, 82. With bore 54 aligned with open flow passage 78, there is no blockage at 81, 82. In this example, the blockage at 81, 82 is shaft 52 of valve device 50.

[0091] B. Examples of filter devices FIG. 3 shows a liquid filter assembly 85 including a filter head apparatus 86 and a filter cartridge 92 removably connected to the filter head apparatus 86 .

[0092] The filter head apparatus 86 has a fluid inlet 88 and a fluid outlet 90. Typically, the filter head apparatus 86 is mounted on an apparatus, such as an engine, that utilizes oil or hydraulic fluid. The fluid to be filtered flows from some upstream reservoir into the inlet conduit 88. The fluid then flows from the filter head apparatus 86 to a filter cartridge 92 (only a portion of which is shown in FIG. 3 ), where it is filtered, before returning to the filter head apparatus 86 and exiting the filter head apparatus 86 through the outlet conduit 90. The filtered liquid then goes to downstream components.

[0093] In accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, filter head apparatus 86 utilizes gear valve apparatus 50 to control fluid flow volume and form inlet 88 to filter cartridge 92. For example, if no filter cartridge 92 is installed, valve apparatus 50 can completely block fluid flow from inlet 88.

[0094] The valve gear assembly 50 is used with a filter head assembly 86 such that the gear teeth 62 are constructed and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft 52 between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the fluid flow bore 54 is aligned with the inlet 88, while in the closed position, fluid flow is blocked at the inlet 88, stopping or preventing flow from reaching the cartridge 92 or a housing containing the cartridge or containing the cartridge.

[0095] In FIG. 3, it can be seen how the valve arrangement 50 further includes a spring 94, such as a torsion spring 94, to hold the valve shaft 52 in a closed position when no force is applied to the gear teeth 62.

[0096] 4, a top perspective view of one embodiment of a filter cartridge 92 is shown. The filter cartridge 92 includes protrusions 96, such as cartridge gear teeth 96, that engage with and apply a force against the valve gear teeth 62 to move the valve shaft 52 between the open and closed positions.

[0097] The filter cartridge 92 generally, and with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 17-23, includes a filter media structure 98 and a set of cartridge gear teeth 96 attached to the filter media structure 98.

[0098] The cartridge gear teeth 96 may be part of the ring member 100 and are circumferentially spaced apart from one another around the ring member 100. The cartridge gear teeth 96 are shown extending radially outwardly around the ring member 100. It can be seen that the cartridge gear teeth 96 protrude from the radial wall of the ring member 100, such that the radial wall varies in radial thickness around the ring member 100 along with the teeth.

[0099] The filter media structure 98 forms a tubular shape enclosing an open interior volume 102 having first and second opposite ends 104,105.

[0100] At the first end 104 secured to the filter media structure 98 is a first end cap 108. The first end cap 108 has an opening 110 that communicates with the open interior volume 102.

[0101] The filter media structure 98 can be many different types of filter media. In many examples, the filter media structure 98 can be pleated media, including pleated cellular media.

[0102] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the ring member 100 is part of a first end cap 108 and surrounds an opening 110 .

[0103] Filter cartridge 92 can further include a seal member 112. In many examples, seal member 112 is secured to first end cap 108 as a radially oriented seal member 113. Radially oriented seal member 113 can be either inwardly oriented (FIGS. 4, 5, and 17-20) or outwardly oriented (FIGS. 21-23).

[0104] The filter media structure 98 may be a pleated media 116 having inner pleat tips 118 and outer pleat tips 119. The inner pleat tips 118 help define the interior volume 102, and the outer pleat tips 119 help define the perimeter of the filter media structure 98.

[0105] In many embodiments, the seal member 112 is positioned radially spaced from both the inner pleat tip 118 and the outer pleat tip 119. The ring member 100 having the gear teeth 96 is radially spaced between the inner pleat tip 118 and the outer pleat tip 119. Typically, the cartridge gear teeth 96 are spaced radially inward from the outer pleat tip 119.

[0106] The first end cap 108 includes a seal member holder 122. The holder 122 can extend axially from the first end cap 108 in a direction away from the media 116. In many embodiments, the holder 122 resides radially between the inner pleat tip 118 and the outer pleat tip 119. The holder 122 can have a radial groove 124 that retains the seal member 112. While many different embodiments are possible, in a preferred embodiment, the ring member 100 is an integral part of the seal member holder 122. In embodiments in which the radial seal member 113 faces inward, the groove 124 runs along the inside of the holder 122, while in embodiments in which the radial seal member 113 faces outward, the groove 124 runs along the outside of the holder 122.

[0107] In certain of the examples shown (i.e., FIGS. 4, 5, 17-20), the seal member 113 extends radially inward from the holder 122 while the teeth 96 extend radially outward. Thus, the teeth 96 extend in the opposite radial direction as the seal member 112 in some exemplary embodiments. In other examples (FIGS. 21-23), the seal member 113 extends radially outward from the holder 122 while the teeth 96 extend radially outward so as to extend in the same radial direction.

[0108] The cartridge gear teeth 96 are sized and shaped to engage with the gear teeth 62 of the valve assembly 50. In many examples, the cartridge gear teeth 96 are spur gear teeth.

[0109] The filter cartridge 92 may further include a second end cap 126. The second end cap 126 often has one or more openings 128, but may also be a closed end cap.

[0110] 17-23, specific examples of filter cartridges 92 are shown herein. FIGS. 17 and 18 include a filter cartridge 92 in the form of a spin-on cartridge 132. The spin-on cartridge 132 includes a filter element 134 (FIG. 18) permanently secured within an outer housing 136. The housing 136 is removably attachable to the filter head assembly 86. A central longitudinal axis x is shown passing through the cartridge 132. When installed with the filter head 86, the axis 58 of the valve shaft 52 is parallel to the longitudinal axis x in this non-limiting exemplary embodiment. Other arrangements are possible.

[0111] Housing 136 includes an interior 138 that holds element 134. Housing 136 also includes outwardly directed threads 140 for connecting with threads 87 on filter head assembly 86.

[0112] 17 and 18, the housing 136 has a sleeve 142 at an open mouth 144. The sleeve 142 has threads 140. The sleeve 142 can be made as described in either U.S. Pat. No. 9,545,587 or U.S. Pat. No. 9,555,347, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0113] The housing 136 also has an outwardly directed seal member 146 for forming a seal with the filter head assembly 86. In the embodiment shown in Figures 17 and 18, the seal member 146 is retained within a groove 148 in the sleeve 142.

[0114] The sleeve 142 may also have a radially oriented flange 150 that acts as a stop when threaded or screwed onto the filter head assembly 86 .

[0115] 17 and 18, in this embodiment, the housing 136 has an open bottom end 152 that can receive a valve arrangement that is threadedly attached to the bottom of the element with threads 154. The valve arrangement can allow for the evacuation of liquids, such as water, in the case of a fuel / water separator.

[0116] 19 and 20 show filter cartridge 92 in the form of a filter element used in a bowl-cartridge assembly in which a filter element 158 ​​is removably secured within an outer housing or bowl 160 (FIG. 21).

[0117] 21 and 22 show bowl-cartridge assembly 162. Bowl or housing 160 can receive the exemplary element 158 ​​of FIGS. 19 and 20; alternatively, it can receive a coalescer filter element 164, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. Generally, when filter media structure 98 becomes clogged and requires servicing, in bowl-cartridge assembly 162, housing 160 is removed from filter head apparatus 86, and then an internal filter element, such as element 158 ​​or element 164, is removed from housing 160 and replaced with a new element 158, 164.

[0118] 22, it can be seen how the coalescer filter element 164 includes an internal coalescer 166 disposed within the filter interior 102. The coalescer 166 may help separate coalesced materials, such as water, from fuel. In this example, the coalescer 166 extends only partially into the filter interior 102 from the opening 110 in the first end cap 108 toward the second end cap 126 in a frusto-conical shape.

[0119] Figures 24-26 show a variation at 162' of bowl-cartridge assembly 162 of Figures 19-22. Filter cartridge 158' and bowl 160' include anti-rotation feature 175. Anti-rotation feature 175 prevents cartridge 158' from rotating with bowl 160' when bowl 160' is rotated (threaded) onto the filter head, once cartridge 158' is operatively oriented within bowl 160'.

[0120] While variations on anti-rotation mechanism 175 are possible, in the example shown, end cap 108' has a radially outwardly extending tab 177 that protrudes from outer peripheral edge 175 of end cap 108'. Bowl 160' has a recessed slot 179 along inner wall 181 of bowl 160' adjacent to an open mouth 183 sized to receive tab 177. Recessed slot 179 is bayonet-shaped such that it opens at 185 at the edge of mouth 183, such that after tab 177 drops vertically into it at 185, rotational movement of cartridge 158' within bowl 160' moves tab 177 into portion 187 of slot 179 that does not open at the edge of mouth 183, thereby locking tab 177 within slot 179.

[0121] C. Gear tooth, ratio and tolerance analysis The gear ratio is defined as the number of teeth on the driven part (load) to the number of teeth on the driver (effort). In the filter device example herein, the driver or effort is the cartridge gear teeth 96 and the driven part or load is the valve device gear teeth 62.

[0122] Process tolerances help determine the tooth geometry of gear teeth 62 and gear teeth 96. Taller teeth are better for larger process tolerances. Generally, the shorter the gear tooth height, the smaller the angle of rotation and the more precise the gear movement. The more precise the gear movement, the more controlled the opening of valve assembly 50.

[0123] In Figure 8, the ideal state of gear meshing is shown at 200. Both 200a and 200b show the ideal state, but 200a has taller teeth than 200b.

[0124] At 202, the gears are spaced apart by a nominal distance corresponding to process tolerances to prevent gear binding. Again, 202a indicates the tall teeth and 202b indicates the short teeth.

[0125] At 204, the gears are marked at twice the process tolerance. At 204b, the gears don't even engage with each other. At 204a, there is minimal engagement but no backlash. Gears need to have backlash to operate properly.

[0126] Figures 9-12 illustrate the ratcheting effect of the gears. The amount the valve assembly 50 opens is determined by the height of the teeth. The higher the tooth height, the less precise the valve assembly 50 will be in opening, but slight precision can be achieved by changing the relative sizes of the gears to reduce the gear ratio. The view through the inlet 88 shows the location of the bore 54 of the valve assembly 50 and allows partial visibility of the shaft 52.

[0127] 9 and 10 show an example where the gear tooth height is approximately 16 / 84". This uses a gear ratio of 1:5.25. In FIGS. 9 and 10, the angle of rotation for one tooth is 4.17° for the cartridge gear tooth 96 and 21.29° for the valve gear gear tooth 62.

[0128] In Figures 11 and 12, a higher tooth height is used than that shown in Figures 9 and 10, with a tooth height of 10 / 46". This is a gear ratio of 1:4.6. In Figures 11 and 12, the rotation angle of one tooth of the cartridge gear teeth 96 is 7.81° and the rotation angle of one tooth of the valve gear gear teeth 62 is 35.93°.

[0129] Figures 13-15 illustrate the utility of the torsion spring 94 in a neutral position when the filter cartridge 92 is not installed. The valve gear 62 must ratchet in both directions. In Figure 13, the neutral, no-filter position is shown, with the valve assembly 50 closed. The spring 94 is shown in the neutral position.

[0130] In Figure 14, filter cartridge 92 is installed and valve assembly 50 is open. Comparing Figures 13 and 14, it can be seen that gear teeth 62 are ratcheted in a counterclockwise position, and spring 94 is also rotating counterclockwise.

[0131] 15, the filter removal position is shown. The cartridge gear teeth 96 are shown rotating counterclockwise, which rotates the valve assembly gear teeth 62 clockwise. The torsion spring 94 rotates clockwise past the neutral position, and once the filter cartridge 92 is fully removed, the spring 94 returns to the neutral position, which is also the position in which the valve assembly 50 is closed.

[0132] 16 shows the tolerance analysis. The tolerances are designated A and B, where "A" is the radial distance between the seal member 112 and the sealing surface 170 on the filter head apparatus 86. Tolerance B is the radial clearance between the inner bore 172 of the filter head apparatus 86 and the outer shaft 52 of the valve apparatus 50. There is an additional tolerance for concentricity. The tolerance is calculated to a tolerance, such as less than 1 mm.

[0133] A ratio of about 1:2.69 between the valve gear teeth 62 and cartridge gear teeth 96 has been found to be useful in many cases. The height of the valve gear teeth 62 and cartridge gear teeth 96 is about 13 / 35 of an inch.

[0134] It is also useful to have a valve shaft with an outer diameter of about 17-18 mm, while the dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 58 across the bore 54 of the valve device 50 is about 9-10 mm.

[0135] Figure 27 shows useful relationships between the seal face diameter 302; the gear tip outer diameter 304; and the first end cap outer diameter 306. The lateral distance 308 between the outermost tips of the gear teeth 96 and the base of the groove 124 for the seal member 113 is 1 to 13 mm, typically 5 to 10 mm, e.g., about 7 to 8 mm. The following dimensions yield a useful device:

[0136] [Table 1]

[0137] In operation, a filter head apparatus 86 is provided, along with a filter cartridge 92 having cartridge gear teeth 96. The cartridge 92 is removably attached to the filter head apparatus 86 by threading a connection between the cartridge 92 and threads 87 on the filter head apparatus 86. As the cartridge 92 is rotated relative to the filter head apparatus 86, the cartridge gear teeth 96 engage with the gear teeth 62 of the valve apparatus 50, causing the shaft 52 to rotate about the longitudinal axis 58 and the bore 54 to move into open alignment with the inlet 88 of the filter head apparatus 86. This, in turn, allows fluid to flow from the inlet 88 into the filter cartridge 92. The filter cartridge 92 filters material from the liquid as it passes through the media structure 98. The filtered liquid then flows from the filter cartridge 92 back to the filter head apparatus 86 and exits the filter head apparatus 86 through the outlet 90. When the filter cartridge 92 is removed from the filter head assembly 86, rotation of the cartridge 92 causes engagement between the cartridge gear teeth 96, which in turn moves the gear teeth 62 on the valve assembly 50 and moves the bore 54 out of alignment with the inlet 88.

[0138] The filter cartridge, including the outer housing and inner elements, can all be made from a variety of materials, including non-metallic materials such as nylon plastic. Some embodiments may also include metal in select components, including the housing and / or sleeve.

[0139] D. Alternative Configurations, Figures 40-59 For example, in addition to the configuration of protrusions 96 (e.g., cartridge gear teeth 96) shown on cartridge 158 in FIG. 19, a variety of other possible configurations could be used. In general, protrusions 96 could be any shape capable of rotating gear teeth 62 of valve apparatus 50 through the required range of motion (e.g., at least three teeth) and providing a continuous or discontinuous diameter after rotation that would hold valve apparatus 50 open after rotation. In FIGS. 40-59, end caps are shown at 400 and could be used where end cap 108 is shown. In each of these embodiments, an anti-rotation mechanism similar to 175 having radially outwardly extending tabs 177 is shown, along with a radially outwardly extending flange 401 extending radially from the outer periphery of end cap 400, although many alternatives are possible.

[0140] Figures 40 and 41 show projections 402 having the same shape as shown in Figure 19, which may be spur gear shaped. The projections 402 are present in groups 404 of three projections / teeth 402. The three groups 404 are equally spaced circumferentially from each other. Between each group 404 there is a continuous smooth ridge 406.

[0141] 42 and 43, the projections 402 are present in a single group 404 of three projections / teeth 402. A continuous smooth ridge 406 extends circumferentially around the end cap 400 from one circumferential end of the group 404, along the end cap 400 to the opposite circumferential end.

[0142] FIGS. 45-49 show the protrusions 412 embodied as pins 414. In FIGS. 44-45, the pins 414 are circumferentially equally spaced from one another and project from the axial surface of the end cap 400 while being spaced apart from the holder 122. In FIGS. 46-47, the pins 414 are present in groups 416 of three pins 414. There are four groups 416, each equally spaced from one another circumferentially. Between each group 416 is a continuous, smooth ridge 418. In FIGS. 48-49, the protrusions 412 are present in a single group 416 of three pins 414. The continuous, smooth ridge 418 extends circumferentially around the end cap 400 from one circumferential end of the group 416 along the end cap 400 to the opposite circumferential end.

[0143] Figures 50-55 show the protrusions 422 embodied as fins or paddles 424. In Figures 50-51, the paddles 424 are equally spaced circumferentially from one another and protrude from the axial face of the end cap 400 while simultaneously protruding radially outward from the holder 122. In Figures 52-53, the paddles 424 are present in groups 426 of three paddles 424. There are three groups 426, each equally spaced circumferentially from one another. Between each group 426 is a continuous, smooth ridge 428. In Figures 54-55, there are three groups 426, as in Figures 52-53, but each group 426 is circumferentially separated by a pin 429.

[0144] Figures 56-59 show protrusions 422, shown here as fins or paddles 424 (but could be many other variations), in groups 426 separated by discrete fins 438. Figures 56-57 are similar to Figures 52-53, but instead of having smooth ridges 428 separating the groups 426, there are multiple individual fins 438. In Figures 58-59, there is a single group 426, and the fin 438 extends circumferentially around the end cap 400 from one circumferential end of the group 426, along the end cap 400, to the opposite circumferential end.

[0145] E. Further Embodiments, FIGS. 28-38 As can be seen from the above and as further described below, the concepts disclosed herein relate to a filter assembly incorporating a drive gear, such as a protrusion from the filter cartridge described above, rotatably secured to the filter assembly. Rotation of the filter assembly results in rotation of the drive gear, which can be used to transmit rotational motion to another component, such as a driven gear, such as a protrusion on a valve shaft as described above. The filter assembly is manually rotated to install the filter assembly into a filtration system so that the filter head interengages with a mating thread defined by the filter assembly. Rotating the filter assembly relative to the filter head during installation opens a fluid flow path through the filter assembly. In particular, rotation of the drive gear rotates a driven gear within the filter head. The driven gear is coupled to a valve in the fluid flow path, and rotation of the driven gear opens the valve.

[0146] 28 depicts an exemplary filter system 1010 consistent with embodiments disclosed herein. The filter system 1010 generally includes a filter head 1020 and a filter assembly 1100 configured to be coupled to the filter head 1020. The exemplary filter system 1010 may be a liquid filter system, such as a system configured to filter oil and / or hydraulic fluids.

[0147] The filter head 1020 can be coupled to or is an integral component of a liquid flow system, such as an oil and / or hydraulic system. The filter head 1020 has a filter connection structure 1022 configured to connect to the filter assembly 1100. The filter head 1020 defines a conduit for directing fluid through the filter assembly 1100 and then returning the fluid to the liquid flow system. The filter head 1020 defines an inlet 1024 and an outlet 1026. The inlet 1024 directs liquid flow into the filter assembly 1100. The outlet 1026 directs liquid flow away from the filter assembly 1100. The filter head can have a variety of different configurations, some of which are described in more detail below with respect to Figures 34-38.

[0148] The filter assembly 1100 is generally configured to filter liquid received from the filter head 1020. The filter assembly 1100 is configured to sealably couple to the filter head 1020. The filter assembly 1100 and the filter head 1020 are configured to cumulatively define a fluid flow path from an inlet 1024, through the filter assembly 1100, and through an outlet 1026. The filter assembly 1100 can have a variety of different configurations, which will now be described in more detail.

[0149] 29 depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of a first exemplary filter element 1200. Filter element 1200 is generally configured to filter fluids, particularly liquids. Filter element 1200 includes at least filter media 1210, a first end cap 1220, and a housing engagement member 1230. Here, filter element 1200 also includes a second end cap 1240.

[0150] The filter media 1210 is generally configured to filter fluids. In some embodiments, the filter media 1210 is configured to filter water, oil, fuel, and / or hydraulic fluid. The filter media 1210 is disposed around a central opening 1202. In this example, the filter media 1210 and the central opening 1202 share a central axis x. The filter media 1210 has an overall cylindrical tubular configuration. The filter media 1210 has a first media end 1212 and a second media end 1214. The central opening 1202 extends from the first media end 1212 to the second media end 1214. The first media end 1212 of the filter media 1210 is coupled to a first end cap 1220, and the second media end 1214 of the filter media 1210 is coupled to a second end cap 1240.

[0151] The filter media 1210 can be constructed of a variety of materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments, the filter media 1210 is constructed of fibers. The filter media 1210 is pleated in various embodiments. In some such embodiments, the filter media 1210 has a first set of pleats that collectively define an outer flow surface 1216 of the filter media 1210 and a second set of pleats that collectively define an inner flow surface 1218 of the filter media 1210. In some embodiments, the filter media 1210 is wrapped around the central opening 1202 to have a spiral configuration around the central opening 1202. In some such embodiments, the outer flow surface 1216 is defined by one surface of the filter media 1210, and the inner flow surface 1218 is defined by an opposing surface of the filter media 1210. The inner flow surface 1218 can be upstream of the outer flow surface 1216 with respect to fluid flow through the filter media 1210. However, in some examples, the outer flow surface 1216 can be upstream of the inner flow surface 1218 .

[0152] In some embodiments, the filter element 1200 can have one or more liners 1250 abutting the inner flow surface 1218 and / or the outer flow surface 1216 of the filter media 1210. The liners 1250 can be configured to provide structural support to the filter media 210 and / or support the filtration function of the filter media 1210.

[0153] The first end cap 1220 is generally configured to retain the first media end 1212 of the filter media 1210. The first end cap 1220 can define a portion of a fluid flow path through the filter media 1210. The first end cap 1220 is sealably coupled to the first media end 1212 of the filter media 1210. In this example, the first end cap 1220 defines an end cap opening 1224 that is a portion of the central opening 1202. The first end cap 1220 shares a central axis x with the filter media 1210 and the central opening 1202. The first end cap 1220 generally includes a drive gear 1222, a housing engagement member 1230, and a seal arrangement 1226.

[0154] The drive gear 1222 of the first end cap 1220 is generally configured to drive a driven gear of a system in which the filter element 1200 is installed. The drive gear 1222 is configured to operatively mesh with a corresponding gear structure of a driven gear of a corresponding system, described in more detail below. The drive gear 1222 is disposed around the central opening 1202. The drive gear 1222 shares a central axis x. The drive gear 1222 and the first end cap 1220 are rotatably fixed such that rotation of the first end cap 1220 results in equal rotation of the drive gear 1222. In various embodiments, the drive gear 1222 and the first end cap 1220 form a single, integral structure. The drive gear 1222 can be integral with the first end cap 1220.

[0155] The drive gear 1222 can have various configurations consistent with the technology disclosed herein. Here, the drive gear 1222 is a bevel gear. In some embodiments, the bevel gear can be a crown gear. The drive gear 1222 has a plurality of gear teeth 1221 extending radially inward to partially define the end cap opening 1224. The plurality of gear teeth 1221 are equally spaced around the end cap opening 1224. In some embodiments, the drive gear 1222 has at least 15 gear teeth 1221. In some embodiments, the drive gear 1222 has 20 to 60 gear teeth. In some embodiments, the drive gear 1222 has 160 or fewer gear teeth. The drive gear 1222 is configured to engage with the driven gear in multiple directions about the central axis x. The drive gear 1222 can be other types of gears, such as a worm gear drive, a screw gear, or the like.

[0156] The housing engagement member 1230 of the first end cap 1220 is generally configured to engage with a filter housing, which in turn is configured to receive the filter element 1200 (described in more detail below). The housing engagement member 230 can have a variety of configurations but generally has a rotation-blocking feature 1232. The rotation-blocking feature 1232 is configured to block rotation of the filter element 1200 relative to the filter housing. In this example, the housing engagement member 1230 defines the rotation-blocking feature 1232. More specifically, each of the multiple housing engagement members 1230 defines a rotation-blocking feature 1232.

[0157] Each rotation-blocking feature 1232 is configured to engage a mating feature on the filter housing to rotationally secure filter element 1200 to the filter housing. In this example, each rotation-blocking feature 1232 is a protrusion that extends outward from first end cap 1220. In various examples, rotation-blocking features 1232 extend radially outward from first end cap 1220. In some embodiments, rotation-blocking features 1232 extend outward from first end cap 1220 axially, i.e., along central axis x.

[0158] In embodiments consistent with this example, rotational obstruction feature 1232 is integral with first end cap 1220. In some embodiments, rotational obstruction feature 1232 can be a separate component coupled to both first end cap 1220 and the filter housing. In this example, rotational obstruction feature 1232 is a protrusion extending from first end cap 1220, but in some embodiments, the rotational obstruction feature can be a pocket feature defined by first end cap 1220. Such pocket feature can be configured to receive a mating protrusion on a corresponding filter housing, or in another example, the pocket feature can be configured to be received by an obstruction feature that is a separate component from the filter housing and first end cap 1220.

[0159] The seal structure 1226 of the first end cap 1220 is configured to form a seal with a filtration system component. In various embodiments, the seal structure 1226 is configured to form a seal with a filter head. The seal structure 1226 is disposed around the central opening 1202. The seal structure 1226 is disposed around the drive gear 1222. In this example, the seal structure 1226 includes a seal 1225 and a seal receiver 1229 that receives the seal 1225. Here, the seal receiver 1229 is defined by the outward-facing surface 1223 of the first end cap 1220, the outer annular ridge 1227a, and the inner annular ridge 1227b. The outer annular ridge 1227a and the inner annular ridge 1227b receive the seal 1225 therebetween. The outer annular ridge 1227a and the inner annular ridge 1227b each extend axially outward from the outward-facing surface 1223 of the first end cap 1220. In this example, the seal structure 1226 defines an annular seal, meaning that the exposed portion 1225 of the seal (referred to as the "seal face") faces generally axially. In some embodiments, the seal structure can define a radial seal, where the seal face faces generally radially. Such configurations are described below with reference to FIG. 30.

[0160] Second end cap 1240 of filter element 1200 is generally configured to retain second media end 1214 of filter media 1210 and define a portion of a fluid flow path through filter media 1210. In particular, second end cap 1240 extends across and blocks central opening 1202. In this manner, a fluid flow path extends through filter media 1210 and end cap opening 1224.

[0161] FIG. 30 depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of a second exemplary filter element 1300 consistent with the examples. The second exemplary filter element 1300 is consistent with the description of the first exemplary filter element 1200 (described above with reference to FIG. 29 ) except where inconsistent with FIG. 30 or this description. Here, a first end cap 1320 is coupled to a first media end 1312 of a filter media 1310. The first end cap 1320 has an end cap opening 1324, a drive gear 1322 about the end cap opening 1324, a seal structure 1326 disposed about the drive gear 1322, and a housing engagement member 1330 having a rotation-blocking feature 1332.

[0162] In this example, the housing engagement member 1330 is a rotational interference feature 1332 that is a pocket formed along the radially outer surface 1323 of the first end cap 1320. The pocket extends axially along the first end cap 1320. The pocket is configured to receive a corresponding protrusion on the filter housing such that the filter element 1300 is rotationally secured to the filter housing. In some examples consistent with this embodiment, there is not more than one rotational interference feature 1332. In some other examples consistent with this embodiment, there is more than one rotational interference feature 1332. Although the pocket is depicted as extending through the outward-facing surface 1321 of the first end cap 1320, in some embodiments, the pocket does not extend through the outward-facing surface 1321 of the first end cap 1320.

[0163] The seal structure 1326 depicted in this example defines a radial seal. The seal structure 1326 includes a seal 1325 and a seal receiver 1329 that receives the seal 1325. The seal receiver 1329 is defined by an outward-facing surface 1321 of the first end cap 1320, an annular ridge 1327a, and a rim 1327b. The annular ridge 1327a extends axially outward from the outward-facing surface 1321 of the first end cap 1320 around the end cap opening 1324. The rim 1327b extends radially outward from the annular ridge 1327a. The rim 1327b is axially spaced from the outward-facing surface 1321 of the first end cap 1320 to receive the seal 1325 therebetween. The radial seal is positioned radially outward from the drive gear 1322. More particularly, in this example, the seal structure 1326 defines an outer radial seal. The outer radial seal is configured to form a seal with an inner circumferential surface of a corresponding system. In some other examples, the seal structure 1326 can form an inner radial seal configured to form a seal with an outer circumferential surface of a corresponding system. Various filter assemblies will now be described.

[0164] Figure 31 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a first exemplary filter assembly 1100a that may correspond to the system depicted in Figure 28. Filter assembly 1100a is generally configured to filter a liquid. Filter assembly 1100a includes a filter element 1200 and a filter housing 1260. Filter assembly 1100a includes a filter inlet 102a and a filter outlet 1104a. In this example, filter outlet 1104a surrounds filter inlet 102a, although in some other examples, the filter inlet may surround the filter outlet.

[0165] 29 and its corresponding description above. Filter housing 1260 is generally configured to substantially receive filter element 1200, where "substantially receive" means that filter housing 1260 contains at least 90% of the volume of filter element 1200. In this example, filter housing 1260 completely contains filter element 1200, meaning that the entire filter element 1200 fits within filter housing 1260. Filter housing 1260 is configured to define a fluid flow path between filter housing 1260 and filter element 1200. Filter outlet 1104a may be defined between filter housing 1260 and first end cap 1220.

[0166] The filter housing 1260 has a first housing end 1262 and a second housing end 1264. The first housing end 1262 defines a housing opening 1261 configured to receive the filter element 1200. The housing opening 1261 extends toward the second housing end 1264, which extends across the housing opening 1261. The second housing end 1264 is configured to surround the second media end 1214. The second housing end 1264 is configured to surround the second end cap 1240.

[0167] The filter housing 1260 is coupled to the first end cap 1220. In particular, the first housing end 1262 is rotatably secured to the first end cap 1220. As described above with reference to FIG. 29 , the first end cap 1220 has a plurality of housing engagement members 1230 including rotation-blocking features 1232 that are received by mating features 1263 of the filter housing 1260. Here, the rotation-blocking features 1232 are radial protrusions that extend radially outward from the first end cap 1220. Correspondingly, the mating features 1263 are radial slots that extend outward from the inner surface 1265 of the filter housing 1260. Each radial protrusion 1232 is configured to be received by an axially and radially aligned radial slot 1263. In this manner, first end cap 1220 is coupled to filter housing 1260, and more particularly, first end cap 1220 is rotationally fixed to filter housing 1260. In various embodiments consistent with the present example, filter element 1200 is removable from filter housing 1260 by axially translating filter element 1200 out of filter housing 1260.

[0168] Filter assembly 1100a has threads 1270 coupled to filter housing 1260 and first end cap 1220. Threads 1270 are generally configured to engage a filter system. In particular, threads 1270 are configured to engage a filter head. Threads 1270 are disposed about central opening 1202. Threads 1270 are disposed about housing opening 1261. In this example, threads 1270 are integral with filter housing 1260, meaning that filter housing 1260 defines threads 1270. Threads 1270 extend axially along first housing end 1262 and circumferentially around filter housing 1260 and about central axis x.

[0169] A housing seal 1266 is disposed around the filter housing 1260 toward the first housing end 1262. The housing seal 1266 is generally configured to form a seal with a system component, such as a filter head, when the filter housing 1260 is fully installed in the system. The housing seal 1266 is adjacent to the threads 1270 such that the housing seal 1266 is configured to form a seal between the filter housing 1260 and the filter head when the threads are fully coupled to the filter head. A lip 1268 extending radially outward from the filter housing 1260 receives the housing seal 1266 to maintain the axial position of the housing seal 1266 relative to the filter housing 1260. The threads 1270 are axially positioned between the first housing end 1262 and the lip 1268. The lip 1268 may be configured to compress the housing seal 1266 against a mating component of the filter head during installation, as described in more detail below. The housing seal 1266 can be an O-ring in various embodiments. The housing seal 1266 can be a pinch seal in various embodiments.

[0170] 29, the first end cap 1220 has a seal structure 1226 that defines an axial seal. The axial seal 1226 is positioned radially between the drive gear 1222 and the threads 1270. In some embodiments, the first end cap can have an alternative seal structure, such as a radial seal as described with reference to FIG.

[0171] Figure 32 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of a second exemplary filter assembly 1100b that may be consistent with the system depicted in Figure 28. Filter assembly 1100b is generally configured to filter liquids. Filter assembly 1100b is similar to the filter assembly described above with reference to Figure 30, except where inconsistent with this description or figure. Filter assembly 1100b includes a filter element 1400 and a filter housing 1460. Filter assembly 1100b includes a filter inlet 1102b and a filter outlet 1104b. In this example, filter outlet 1104b surrounds filter inlet 1102b, although in some other examples, the filter inlet may surround the filter outlet.

[0172] Filter element 1400 may be generally consistent with other filter elements described herein, except that, in this example, first end cap 1420 of filter element 1400 is secured to threaded component 1472, which defines threads 1470. In particular, threaded component 1472 of filter housing 1460 is secured to radially outer surface 1423 of first end cap 1420 toward first housing end 1462. Filter housing 1460 is secured to radially outer surface 1423 of first end cap 1420 about central axis x and central opening 1402. Filter housing 1460 is secured to radially outer surface 1423 of first end cap 1420 around filter media 1410.

[0173] In this particular example, a series of braces 1432 extend radially outward from the radially outer surface 1423 of the first end cap 1420 to the inner surface 1465 of the filter housing 1460. Each brace 1432 in the series of braces is secured at one end to the radially outer surface 1423 of the first end cap 1420 and at an opposite end to the inner surface 1465 of the filter housing 1460. Each brace 1432 spans the radial gap between the radially outer surface 1423 of the first end cap 1420 and the inner surface 1465 of the filter housing 1460. In various embodiments, the first end cap 1420 forms a single, integral structure with a threaded component 1472 that defines the threads 1470. In such embodiments, the first end cap 1420 and the threads 1470 may be formed through a single molding operation or machined from a single piece of material.

[0174] While this example reflects multiple braces, in some embodiments, a single brace may be used to secure first end cap 1420 to filter housing 1460. Also, in some embodiments, one or more braces may secure outward facing surface 1421 of first end cap 1420 to filter housing 1460.

[0175] In this example, threaded component 1472 defines a portion of filter housing 1460, such as first housing end 1462 of filter housing 1460. Threaded component 1472 partially defines housing opening 1461. Threaded component 1472 can be secured to the remaining housing portion 1467 of filter housing 1460. In some embodiments where threaded component 1472 and first end cap 1420 are molded as a single, integral structure, threaded component 1472 and the remaining housing portion 1467 can be secured together through the use of adhesives, fasteners, etc. In some embodiments, such as that depicted in FIG. 32 , the end region 1469 of the remaining housing portion 1467 is crimped onto the proximal end 1476 of the threaded component 1472 about the housing opening 1461 and the central axis x, where the proximal end of the threaded component 1472 is axially opposite the end of the threaded component 1472 that forms the first housing end 1462.

[0176] A housing seal 1466 (such as that described above with reference to FIG. 31 ) proximate the threads 1470 may be positioned over the joint between the threaded component 1472 and the remaining housing portion 1467. In some embodiments, the housing seal 1466 may be configured to reinforce the bond between the threaded component 1472 and the remaining housing portion 1467. In this example, the threaded component 1472 defines a lip 1468 upon which the housing seal 1466 is positioned. The remaining housing portion 1467 is crimped to the threaded component 1472 around the lip 1468. When such an assembly is installed in a filter head (described in more detail below), the housing seal 1466 may be configured to enhance the seal between the threaded component 1472 and the remaining housing portion 1467. The housing seal 1466 is otherwise consistent with the housing seal 1466 described above with reference to FIG. 31 .

[0177] Figure 33 is a perspective, cross-sectional view of a third exemplary filter assembly 1100c. The third exemplary filter assembly 1100c may be consistent with the system depicted in Figure 28. Filter assembly 1100c is similar to second exemplary filter assembly 1100b described above with reference to Figure 32, except where inconsistent with the present description or figures. Filter assembly 1100c includes a filter element 1500 and a filter housing 1560. Filter element 1500 is generally consistent with other filter elements described herein, and filter housing 1560 is generally consistent with other filter housings described herein.

[0178] In this example, the first end cap 1520 of the filter element 1500 defines a drive gear 1522 around the central opening 1502 that is a worm gear drive 1522. The worm gear drive 1522 is configured to mesh with a worm gear in a corresponding system in which the filter assembly 1100c is installed, as described in more detail below. The worm gear drive 1522 defines a plurality of gear teeth 1521 around the end cap opening 1524. In contrast to the example discussed with reference to FIG. 29 , here the gear teeth 1521 do not extend into the end cap opening 1524. In this example, the drive gear 1522 may be a planar worm gear drive, meaning that the gear teeth 1521 are parallel to and / or project from a plane substantially perpendicular to the central axis x. "Substantially perpendicular" is used herein to mean perpendicular to the central axis x within 5°. The drive gear 1522 may also be a bevel worm gear drive, meaning that the gear teeth 1521 are defined on a surface that is non-perpendicular to the gear's axis of rotation (which is the central axis x).

[0179] FIG. 34 depicts a perspective cross-sectional view of an exemplary filter system 1010c consistent with the system depicted in FIG. 28. The filter system 1010c incorporates a filter assembly 1100c consistent with FIG. 33, having a filter element 1500 and a filter housing 1560. The filter element 1500 and the filter housing 1560 are consistent with the descriptions of a filter element and a filter housing, respectively, herein. The filter assembly 1100c is configured to be installed in a filter head 1020c, where the filter housing 1560 and the filter head 1020c encase the filter media 1510. FIG. 35 depicts a cross-sectional view of the filter head 1020c alone. FIG. 34 depicts the filter system 1010c without the filter assembly 1100c installed, and FIG. 36 depicts the filter system 1010c with the filter assembly 1100c installed in the filter head 1020c.

[0180] The filter head 1020c is configured to be coupled to the filter assembly 1100c. The filter head 1020c has a filter connection structure 1022c configured to be coupled to the filter assembly 1100c. In particular, the filter connection structure 1022c has a filter assembly opening 1030c configured to receive a portion of the filter assembly 1100c and a first thread 1032c defined about the filter assembly opening 1030c that is configured to engage with a mating thread 1570 of the filter assembly 1100c. The mating thread 1570 extends generally around the periphery of the filter housing 1560 of the filter assembly 1100c, as described above with reference to the threads depicted in Figures 31-33. Mating threads 1570 are configured to engage first threads 1032c of filter head 1020c when filter assembly 1100c is inserted into filter assembly opening 1030c and rotated within filter assembly opening 1030c relative to filter head 1020c.

[0181] The filter head 1020c has a system inlet 1024c and a system outlet 1026c, defining a fluid flow path 1021c selectively extending from the system inlet 1024c through a filter assembly opening 1030c to the system outlet 1026c. The filter head 1020c has a valve assembly 1040c disposed in the fluid flow path 1021c. The valve assembly 1060c has a valve 1050c having an open position and a closed position, and FIGS. 34 and 35 depict the valve 1050c in the closed position. FIG. 36 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the system of FIG. 34, with the valve 1050c in the open position. When the valve 1050c is in the open position, the fluid flow path 1021c extends from the system inlet 1024c to the filter assembly opening 1030c. When the valve 1050c is in the closed position, the fluid flow path 1021c is blocked between the system inlet 1024c and the filter assembly opening 1030c.

[0182] The valve assembly 1040c can have a variety of different configurations. In some embodiments consistent with FIGS. 34-36 , the valve assembly 1040c includes a valve housing 1042c secured to the filter head 1020c and a valve 1050c operably disposed in the valve housing 1042c. In this example, the valve 1050c is a ball valve defining a valve opening 1052c. The valve 1050c is rotatably disposed within the filter head 1020c, and more particularly, within the valve housing 1042c. The valve 1050c is configured to be rotated to place the valve opening 1052c in fluid communication with the fluid flow path 1021c in an "open" position. The valve 1050c is also configured to be rotated to remove the valve opening 1052c from fluid communication with the fluid flow path 1021c in a "closed" position to block fluid flow through the fluid flow path 1021c.

[0183] In the currently described example, valve 1050c has an axis of rotation vx. While axis of rotation vx (see FIG. 35) is perpendicular to central axis x in this example, in some other embodiments, axis of rotation vx can have a different orientation relative to central axis x. For example, in some embodiments, the valve's axis of rotation vx can be parallel to central axis x. Other types of valves can certainly be used in the system consistent with current technology, such as gate valves, flue valves, piston valves, plug valves, etc. In some such embodiments, the valve is not rotatable within the filter head, but rather is linearly or otherwise translatable relative to the fluid path to selectively block the fluid path.

[0184] Regardless of the particular type of valve implemented within the filter head, the system generally includes a meshing gearing configured to mechanically communicate with the valve for translating the valve from a closed position to an open position during installation of the filter assembly within the filter head. In some embodiments, the meshing gearing is configured to translate the valve from an open position to a closed position during removal of the filter assembly from the filter head.

[0185] With specific reference to FIGS. 34-36, the filtration system 1010c includes a meshing gear arrangement 1580 operably coupled to a valve 1050c. The meshing gear arrangement 1580 is configured to translate the valve 1050c from a closed position (FIGS. 34-35) to an open position (FIG. 36). In this example, the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is also configured to translate the valve 1050c from an open position to a closed position. The meshing gear arrangement 1580 includes a first portion 1582 and a second portion 1584. The first portion 1582 and the second portion 1584 are meshing gears. The first portion 1582 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is a component of the filter head 1020c, and the second portion 1584 is a component of the filter assembly 1100c. The second portion 1584 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is a drive gear, and more specifically, the worm gear drive 1522 described above with reference to Figure 33. In various embodiments, the second portion 1584 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580, and in particular the drive gear 1522, has an axis of rotation that is collinear with the central axis x.

[0186] The first portion 1582 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is configured to be driven by the drive gear 1522, which is the second portion 1584 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580. Thus, in various embodiments, the first portion 1582 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is the driven gear 1054c. Unique to this example, the first portion 1582 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is a worm gear 1054c. The worm gear 1054c is configured to be received by a worm drive gear that forms the second portion 1584 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580. The worm gear 1054c generally has a cylindrical protrusion 1056c extending along the axis of rotation vx, with a helical thread 1058c circumferentially about the axis of rotation vx. Other worm gear configurations are possible.

[0187] The first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 is operably coupled to the valve 1050c. In particular, in the present example, the first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 is fixed to the valve 1050c. In various embodiments, the first portion 1582 and the valve 1050c form a single, integral structure. In this example, the worm gear of the first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 extends outwardly from the valve 1050c along the axis of rotation vx of the valve 1050c. The first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 defines an axis of rotation that is perpendicular to the central axis x. In particular, in the present example, the axis of rotation of the first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 is the axis of rotation vx of the valve 1050c. In some embodiments, the first portion 1582 of the meshing gearing 1580 defines an axis of rotation that is parallel to the central axis x.

[0188] As mentioned above, Figure 34 depicts the system prior to installation of filter assembly 1100c in filter head 1020c. When filter assembly 1100c is installed in filter head 1020c, filter assembly 1100c is rotated within filter head 1020c such that mating threads 1570 of filter assembly 1100c engage first threads 1032c of filter head 1020c. As filter assembly 1100c is rotated, filter assembly 1100c translates axially into filter assembly opening 1030c, thereby translating second portion 1584 of meshing gear assembly 1580 (e.g., drive gear 1522) toward first portion 1582 of meshing gear assembly 1580 (e.g., driven gear 1054c). The second portion 1584 of the meshing gear assembly 1580 is axially aligned and operatively engaged with the first portion 1582 of the meshing gear assembly 1580. After the meshing gear assembly 1580 is operatively engaged, further rotation of the filter assembly 1100c relative to the filter head 1020c (to complete installation) causes the second portion 1584 to transmit rotational motion to the first portion 1582 of the meshing gear assembly 1580, which results in the opening of the valve 1050c, as seen in FIG.

[0189] While this disclosure has described a meshing gear arrangement having two meshing gears as an example, other configurations incorporating additional meshing gears are certainly contemplated. For example, the meshing gear arrangement can have a third portion that is a gear configured to transmit rotational motion from the second portion to the first portion. The meshing gear arrangement can further have a fourth portion and a fifth portion that are gears in mechanical communication with the first portion and the second portion. Furthermore, the meshing gear arrangement can incorporate additional features other than valves and gears in mechanical communication with the meshing gear arrangement.

[0190] As can be seen from review of the figure, the valve 1050c is part of a valve device that includes a valve shaft, such as a first portion 1582, having a fluid flow bore and valve gear teeth, such as a meshing gear assembly 1582, protruding from the valve shaft, configured and arranged to receive forces that rotate the valve shaft. The shaft / first portion 1582 has opposite first and second ends with a longitudinal axis passing through the first and second ends. The fluid flow bore has a central axis that is rotatable between perpendicular and parallel to the longitudinal axis. The valve gear teeth can protrude from the second end of the shaft. The valve gear teeth can protrude radially from the second end of the shaft.

[0191] The filter system 1010c includes a seal structure 1526, which may be similar to the seal structures discussed herein. The seal structure 1526 extends about the central axis x and about the central opening 1502. The seal structure 1526 is configured to form a seal between the filter head 1020c and the filter assembly 1100c about the central opening 1502 to fluidly isolate the filter inlet 1102c from the filter outlet 1104c. When the filter assembly 1100c is installed in the filter head 1020c, the seal structure 1526 prevents fluid flow from the system inlet 1024c to the system outlet 1026c except through the filter media 1510. The seal structure 1526 is positioned radially inward from the mating threads 1570. More specifically, the seal structure 1526 is positioned radially inward from the radially outer surface 1523 of the first end cap 1520. In this example, seal structure 1526 defines an axial seal, although in other examples, the seal structure may define a radial seal. Filter head 1020c defines an axial seal surface 1034c configured to abut seal structure 1526 about central opening 1502. In this example, axial seal surface 1034c is an annular surface defined about central axis x.

[0192] The filter system 1010c includes a housing seal 1566 disposed about the periphery of the filter housing 1560. In particular, the housing seal 1566 is disposed on a lip 1568 of the filter housing 1560. The housing seal 1566 is positioned between the filter housing 1560 and the filter head 1020c and is configured to prevent fluid flow therethrough. The housing seal 1566 abuts an axial end 1574 of the threaded connection between the housing seal 1566 and the filter housing 1560 around the periphery of the filter housing 1560. When the filter assembly 1100c is installed in the filter head 1020c, the housing seal 1566 is compressed between the filter assembly 1100c and the filter head 1020c.

[0193] Figure 37 depicts a second exemplary system 1010d consistent with various embodiments. System 1010d corresponds to the system depicted in Figure 28. This system includes a filter assembly 1100d that may correspond to the filter assemblies disclosed with reference to Figures 31 or 32. That is, filter assembly 1100d includes a filter element 1600 disposed within a filter housing 1660, the filter element 1600 having a first end cap 1620 coupled to the filter housing 1660 via either (1) a housing engagement member having a rotation-blocking feature that is received by a mating feature on the filter housing 1660 (as described with reference to Figure 34), or (2) one or more braces that secure the first end cap 1620 to the filter housing 1660 (as described with reference to Figure 32).

[0194] The second system 1010d may be consistent with the description of the first system described above with reference to FIGS. 34-36, except where inconsistent with FIG. 37 and corresponding descriptions herein. Notably, in this example, the meshing gear arrangement 1580 has a different configuration than the examples described above. The meshing gear arrangement 1580 operably coupled to the valve 1050d may be a bevel gear arrangement. In some such embodiments, the meshing gear arrangement 1580 may be a miter gear arrangement. The first portion 1582 of the meshing gear arrangement 1580 is, in this example, a pinion gear 1054d. The pinion gear 1054d has a plurality of teeth 1058d extending radially outward from a cylindrical projection 1056d. The pinion gear 1054d has an axis of rotation vx, and the plurality of teeth 1058d are spaced apart around the axis of rotation vx. In some such embodiments, the pinion gear 1054d may be a ratchet gear.

[0195] Figure 38 depicts a third exemplary system 1010e consistent with various embodiments. System 1010e corresponds to the system depicted in Figure 28. The system includes a filter assembly 1100e having a filter element 1700 disposed within a filter housing 1760, the filter element 1700 having a seal structure 1726 consistent with that described above with reference to Figure 30. Filter element 1700 and filter housing 1760 can have features consistent with the filter elements and filter housings described throughout this document.

[0196] In the current example, the seal structure 1726 extends around the central axis x and around the central opening 1702. The seal structure 1726 is configured to form a seal between the filter head 1020e and the filter assembly 1100e around the central opening 1702. When the filter assembly 1100e is installed in the filter head 1020e, the seal structure 1726 prevents fluid flow from the inlet 1024e to the outlet 1026e except through the filter media 1710. The seal structure 1726 is positioned radially inward from the mating threads 1770. More specifically, the seal structure 1726 is positioned radially inward from the radially outer surface 1723 of the first end cap 1720. In the present example, the seal structure 1726 defines a radial seal, although in other examples, the seal structure can define an axial seal. The filter head 1020e defines a radial seal surface 1034e configured to abut the seal structure 1726 about the central opening 1702. In this example, the radial seal surface 1034e is a radially inner surface defined about the central axis x. In some other embodiments, the seal structure 1726 may define a radially inner seal surface and the mating seal surface of the filter head may be a radially outer surface.

[0197] As can be seen in Figures 29-38, filter cartridges or elements 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700 are provided that include a filter media structure / media 1210 and a set of cartridge gear teeth 1221 attached to the filter media structure. In some embodiments, the cartridge gear teeth 1221 can be part of a ring member and can be circumferentially spaced apart from one another. The filter media structure can include a tubular-shaped pleated media enclosing an open interior volume having first and second opposite ends. The cartridge can include a first end cap secured to the first end of the filter media structure, the first end cap having an opening communicating with the open interior volume. The ring member can be part of the first end cap. The filter cartridge can also include a radially oriented seal member secured to the first end cap. The pleated media can have inner and outer pleat tips, and the sealing member can be positioned radially spaced from both the inner and outer pleat tips. In an exemplary embodiment, the cartridge further includes a second end cap secured to a second end of the filter media structure. The filter cartridge can further include a housing having an interior that holds the filter media structure therein. The housing can have outwardly directed threads for connecting to a filter head.

[0198] As can be appreciated from the above, filter head 1020 can be part of a filter head apparatus that includes a fluid inlet 1024; and a valve apparatus constructed and arranged such that valve projection / drive gear 1222 receives a force that rotates valve shaft / portion 1582 between an open position and a closed position. The open position aligns the fluid flow bore with the fluid inlet, and the closed position blocks fluid flow from the fluid inlet.

[0199] F. Exemplary Method, FIG. 39 39 is a flowchart of an exemplary method 1800 consistent with various embodiments. Method 1800 may correspond to a system described herein. Threads on a filter assembly are rotated 1810 relative to mating threads. A drive gear on an end cap, such as a cartridge projection or tooth on the filter assembly, is rotated 1820. The end cap is axially translated 1830 into the filter head. The drive gear is positioned to engage a mating gear, such as a projection / tooth from a valve shaft 1840. The valve is opened 1850.

[0200] The filter assembly threads are rotated 1810 to install the filter assembly into the system. The filter assembly is rotated 1810 relative to the system's mating threads. The filter assembly, filter assembly threads, and mating threads may be consistent with those described herein. The filter assembly threads may be rotated 1810 by a user manually rotating the filter assembly to couple the filter assembly to the filter head. Rotation 1810 of the filter assembly results in rotation of the drive gear / cartridge protrusion of the filter assembly end cap, where the filter assembly drive gear and end cap may be consistent with those described herein.

[0201] Upon rotation 1810 of the filter assembly threads into engagement with the mating threads of the filter head, the end cap axially translates 1830 into the filter head, such as within the filter assembly opening 1830 defined by the filter head (described above with reference to FIGS. 34-36). Axial translation 1830 of the end cap into the filter head positions the drive gear into engagement with the mating gear 1840. In various embodiments, positioning the drive gear into engagement with the mating gear 1840 results in axial alignment between the gears. The drive gear can be a component of the end cap, and the mating gear (e.g., a protrusion or tooth on the valve shaft) can be a component of the filter head, as described above. Once the drive gear engages with the mating gear, further rotation of the filter assembly (and thus the drive gear) results in rotation of the mating gear. Rotation of the mating gear results in opening 1850 of the valve, where the valve is consistent with that previously discussed herein. Notably, rotation of the mating gear can result in rotation of the valve about an axis of rotation. Rotation of the valve about the axis of rotation can result in the valve opening 1850. As noted above, in some embodiments, the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the central axis, and in some other embodiments, the axis of rotation is parallel to the central axis.

[0202] G. Exemplary Embodiments Embodiment 1. A valve apparatus comprising: (a) a valve shaft having a fluid flow bore; and (b) a protrusion extending from the valve shaft, the protrusion constructed and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft.

[0203] Embodiment 2. A valve device as described in embodiment 1, wherein (a) the shaft has opposite first and second ends, a longitudinal axis passing through the first and second ends, and (b) the fluid flow bore has a central axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0204] Embodiment 3. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 1 and 2, wherein the fluid flow bore has a non-circular perimeter shape.

[0205] Embodiment 4. The valve device of embodiment 3, wherein the fluid flow bore has an elliptical peripheral shape.

[0206] Embodiment 5. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 2 to 4, wherein a protrusion extends from the second end of the shaft.

[0207] Embodiment 6. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 2 to 4, wherein the protrusion extends radially from the second end of the shaft.

[0208] Embodiment 7. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the protrusion is a gear tooth that protrudes from the valve shaft and is constructed and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft.

[0209] Embodiment 8. The valve device of embodiment 7, wherein the valve gear teeth include at least two teeth circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0210] Embodiment 9. The valve device of embodiment 7, wherein the valve gear teeth include at least three teeth circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0211] Embodiment 10. The valve device of embodiment 7, wherein the valve gear teeth include 2 to 10 teeth circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0212] Embodiment 11. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the valve gear teeth are spur gear teeth.

[0213] Embodiment 12. A valve device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the shaft is cylindrical having a circumference and the protrusion extends along an arc of 180° or less along the circumference.

[0214] Embodiment 13. The valve device of embodiment 12, wherein the protrusion extends along an arc of 150° or less along the circumference.

[0215] Embodiment 14. A liquid filter assembly using the valve device of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein (a) the filter assembly has an unfiltered liquid inlet, a filter cartridge for filtering incoming liquid, and a filtered liquid outlet, and (b) the valve device controls the volume of flow through the unfiltered liquid inlet to the filter cartridge.

[0216] Embodiment 15. A filter cartridge comprising: (a) a filter media construction; and (b) a set of cartridge projections attached to the filter media construction.

[0217] Embodiment 16. (a) The filter cartridge of embodiment 15, wherein the cartridge projections include gear teeth.

[0218] Embodiment 17. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 and 16, wherein the cartridge protrusion is part of the ring member.

[0219] Embodiment 18. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 17, wherein the cartridge projections are circumferentially spaced from one another.

[0220] Embodiment 19. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 to 18, wherein the cartridge protrusion is configured to hold the valve shaft in a fixed open position when the filter cartridge is operably installed with the filter head.

[0221] Embodiment 20. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 19, wherein the cartridge projections extend radially outward.

[0222] Embodiment 21. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 19, wherein the cartridge projections extend radially inward.

[0223] Embodiment 22. The filter cartridge of embodiment 17, wherein the cartridge projections protrude from the radial walls of the ring member.

[0224] Embodiment 23. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 and 16, wherein the cartridge projections project from a plane perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the filter media construction.

[0225] Embodiment 24. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 and 16, wherein the cartridge projections are parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the filter media construction.

[0226] Embodiment 25. A filter cartridge as described in any one of embodiments 16 to 24, wherein: (a) the filter media construction includes a tubular pleated media enclosing an open interior volume and having first and second opposite ends; and (b) the cartridge includes a first end cap secured to the first end of the filter media construction, the first end cap having an opening communicating with the open interior volume.

[0227] Embodiment 26. The filter cartridge of embodiments 17 and 25, wherein the ring member is part of the first end cap.

[0228] Embodiment 27. The filter cartridge of embodiment 26, further comprising: (a) a radially oriented seal member secured to the first end cap.

[0229] Embodiment 28. A filter cartridge as described in embodiment 27, wherein (a) the sealing member is held within a groove having a base, and (b) the lateral distance between the outermost tip of the protrusion and the base of the groove is 1 to 13 mm.

[0230] Embodiment 29. A filter cartridge as described in embodiment 28, wherein the lateral distance between the outermost tips of the protrusions and the bases of the grooves is 5 and 10 mm.

[0231] Embodiment 30. The filter cartridge of embodiment 28, wherein the lateral distance between the outermost tips of the protrusions and the bases of the grooves is 7 to 8 mm.

[0232] Embodiment 31. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 27 to 30, wherein (a) the pleated media has inner pleat tips and outer pleat tips, and (b) the sealing member is positioned radially spaced from both the inner pleat tips and the outer pleat tips.

[0233] Embodiment 32. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 27 to 30, wherein (a) the pleated media has inner pleat tips and outer pleat tips, and (b) the sealing member is positioned radially spaced from the inner pleat tips.

[0234] Embodiment 33. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 31 and 32, wherein (a) a ring member having a protrusion is radially spaced between the inner pleat tip and the outer pleat tip, and the protrusion is spaced radially inward from the outer pleat tip.

[0235] Embodiment 34. The filter cartridge of embodiment 33, wherein (a) the first end cap includes a seal member holder extending axially from the first end cap and located between the inner pleat tips and the outer pleat tips, the holder having a radial groove for retaining the seal member, and (b) a ring member within an integral part of the seal member holder.

[0236] Embodiment 35. The filter cartridge of embodiment 34, wherein (a) the sealing member extends radially inward, and (b) the cartridge projections on the ring member extend radially outward.

[0237] Embodiment 36. The filter cartridge of embodiment 35, wherein the sealing member extends radially outward.

[0238] Embodiment 37. The filter cartridge of embodiment 36, wherein the cartridge projections on the ring member extend radially outward.

[0239] Embodiment 38. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 to 37, wherein the cartridge projections are spur gear teeth.

[0240] Embodiment 39. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 25-38, further comprising a second end cap secured to the second end of the filter media construction.

[0241] Embodiment 40. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15-39, further comprising a housing having an interior for holding the filter media construction therein.

[0242] Embodiment 41. A filter cartridge as described in embodiment 40, wherein the housing has outwardly directed threads for connecting with the filter head.

[0243] Embodiment 42. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 40 and 41, wherein the filter media construction is permanently secured within the housing.

[0244] Embodiment 43. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 40 and 41, wherein the filter media construction is removably secured within the housing.

[0245] Embodiment 44. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 to 43, wherein the cartridge projections are present along a full 360° extension.

[0246] Embodiment 45. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 44, wherein each protrusion has a height of 0.12 to 0.34 inches.

[0247] Embodiment 46. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 44, wherein each protrusion has a height of approximately 1 3 / 35 inches.

[0248] Embodiment 47. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 to 46, wherein each protrusion is a gear tooth sized so that the rotation angle of one tooth is between 7.2 and 20 degrees.

[0249] Embodiment 48. A filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 15 to 47, wherein each protrusion is a gear tooth sized so that the rotation angle of one tooth is approximately 10 to 11 degrees.

[0250] Embodiment 49. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15-48, wherein no more than 50 protrusions are present.

[0251] Embodiment 50. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15-49, wherein 18 or more protrusions are present.

[0252] Embodiment 51. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 50, wherein there are approximately 43 to 47 protrusions.

[0253] Embodiment 52. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 51, further comprising an anti-rotation mechanism.

[0254] Embodiment 53. The filter cartridge of embodiment 52, wherein the anti-rotation feature comprises a plurality of tabs projecting radially from the element.

[0255] Embodiment 54. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 46, wherein the protrusion is one of a spur gear shape, a pin shape, or a paddle shape.

[0256] Embodiment 55. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 46, wherein the protrusions are present in groups of three, and wherein there is no more than one group of three protrusions.

[0257] Embodiment 56. The filter cartridge of any one of embodiments 15 to 46, wherein the projections are present in groups of three, there are at least three groups of three projections, and each group is circumferentially spaced from an adjacent group.

[0258] Embodiment 57. The filter cartridge of embodiment 56, further comprising axially projecting ridges or fins extending circumferentially between the groups.

[0259] Embodiment 58. A filter head device comprising: (a) a fluid inlet; and (b) a valve device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein the valve protrusion is configured and arranged to receive a force that rotates the valve shaft between an open position and a closed position, wherein (i) the open position aligns the fluid flow bore with the fluid inlet, and (ii) the closed position blocks fluid flow from the fluid inlet.

[0260] Embodiment 59. A filter head device as described in embodiment 58, wherein the valve device further includes a torsion spring for holding the valve shaft in a closed position when no force is applied to the valve protrusion.

[0261] Embodiment 60. A filter assembly comprising: (a) the filter head device of embodiment 58; and (b) a filter cartridge according to any one of embodiments 14 to 57 removably secured to the filter head, wherein a cartridge protrusion on the filter cartridge applies a force against the valve protrusion to move the valve shaft between an open position and a closed position.

[0262] Embodiment 61. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 60, wherein (a) the cartridge projections constitute cartridge gear teeth and (b) the valve projections constitute valve gear teeth.

[0263] Embodiment 62. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 61, wherein the valve gear teeth extend along an arc of 180° or less.

[0264] Embodiment 63. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 61, wherein the valve gear teeth extend along an arc of 120° or less.

[0265] Embodiment 64. (a) The filter assembly of any one of embodiments 61 to 63, wherein the ratio of valve gear teeth to cartridge gear teeth is about 1:2.5 to 1:5.

[0266] Embodiment 65. (a) A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 63, wherein the ratio of valve gear teeth to cartridge gear teeth is about 1:2.69.

[0267] Embodiment 66. A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 65, wherein the height of the valve gear teeth and cartridge gear teeth is between about 0.12 inches and 0.34 inches.

[0268] Embodiment 67. A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 66, wherein the height of the valve gear teeth and cartridge gear teeth is approximately 13 / 35 inches.

[0269] Embodiment 68. A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 67, wherein (a) the valve shaft has an outer diameter of approximately 17 to 18 mm, and (b) the bore of the valve shaft has a diameter of approximately 9 to 10 mm.

[0270] Embodiment 69. A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 60 to 68, wherein (a) the valve shaft has an axis of rotation parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

[0271] Embodiment 70. A filter assembly according to any one of embodiments 60 to 68, wherein (a) the valve shaft has an axis of rotation perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

[0272] Embodiment 71. (a) A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 70, wherein the filter cartridge is a spin-on cartridge having a filter element permanently fixed within an outer housing, and the housing is removably attached to the filter head.

[0273] Embodiment 72. (a) A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 61 to 70, wherein the filter cartridge comprises a bowl-cartridge assembly including a filter element removably positioned within a bowl, and the bowl is removably attached to the filter head.

[0274] Embodiment 73. A filter assembly according to embodiment 72, wherein the bowl-cartridge assembly further includes a coalescer element within the filter cartridge.

[0275] Embodiment 74. A filter assembly described in any one of embodiments 72 and 73, wherein the filter element and bowl include an anti-rotation mechanism.

[0276] Embodiment 75. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 74, wherein the anti-rotation mechanism includes a plurality of tabs protruding radially from the element and a plurality of slots along the inner wall of the bowl that receive the tabs.

[0277] Embodiment 76. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 75, wherein the anti-rotation mechanism includes at least one protrusion extending outward from the end cap.

[0278] Embodiment 77. A filter assembly as described in embodiment 75, wherein the anti-rotation mechanism comprises a pocket mechanism configured to receive a protrusion on the filter housing.

[0279] Embodiment 78. A method comprising: (a) rotating a filter assembly having a first thread relative to a mating thread of a filter head, wherein rotating the filter assembly rotates a set of cartridge protrusions; (b) axially translating a first end cap of the filter assembly into the filter head by rotating the filter assembly, wherein axially translating the first end cap into the filter head positions the cartridge protrusions to operatively engage with one or more protrusions on a valve shaft in the filter head; and (c) opening a valve integral with the valve shaft in the filter head by rotating the cartridge protrusions to rotate the protrusions on the valve shaft.

[0280] Embodiment 79. The method of embodiment 78, wherein the rotating step includes rotating a set of cartridge projections integral with the first end cap of the filter assembly about a central axis.

[0281] Embodiment 80. The method of embodiment 79, wherein opening the valve comprises rotating the valve about an axis of rotation.

[0282] Embodiment 81. The method described in embodiment 80, wherein the valve rotation axis and the central axis are parallel and offset.

[0283] Embodiment 82. The method of embodiment 80, wherein the valve rotation axis is perpendicular to the central axis.

[0284] Embodiment 83. The method of embodiment 80, wherein the rotation axis is parallel to the central axis.

[0285] Embodiment 84. The method of any one of embodiments 78 to 83, wherein the valve is a ball valve.

[0286] Embodiment 85. The method of any one of embodiments 78 to 84, wherein the cartridge protrusions form bevel gear teeth.

[0287] Embodiment 86. The method of any one of embodiments 78 to 84, wherein the cartridge protrusions form teeth of a worm gear.

[0288] The above represents exemplary principles, and many embodiments can be made using these principles.

Claims

1. (a) a filter media construction including a tubular pleated media enclosing an open interior volume, the pleated media having first and second opposite ends; (b) a first end cap secured to the first end of the filter media construction, the first end cap having an opening in communication with the open interior volume; (i) the first end cap has a ring member having a radial wall; (ii) a set of cartridge projections extending radially outward from said radial wall; (iii) the cartridge projections are circumferentially spaced from one another; (iv) the cartridge projection is configured to exert a force against a valve arrangement to move the valve arrangement between an open position and a closed position to control the flow of liquid into the filter cartridge; Filter cartridge.

2. (a) the cartridge projection includes gear teeth; The filter cartridge of claim 1 .

3. 3. The filter cartridge of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cartridge projections lie in a plane perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the filter media construction.

4. (a) a radially outwardly directed seal member secured to the first end cap; The filter cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising:

5. (a) a radially inwardly directed seal member secured to the first end cap; The filter cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising:

6. 6. The filter cartridge of claim 1, wherein the cartridge projections extend along a full 360°.

7. 7. The filter cartridge of claim 1, wherein each projection is a gear tooth sized such that the angle of rotation of one tooth is between 7.2 and 20 degrees.

8. 8. The filter cartridge of claim 1, wherein there are no more than 50 and no less than 18 protrusions.

9. The filter cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising an anti-rotation mechanism comprising a plurality of tabs projecting radially from the element.

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