Air cleaner assembly and method of use

Abstract

To provide a filter cartridge that includes multiple components arranged in a housing to provide desired filtering capabilities.SOLUTION: A filter cartridge can include a media pack configured for installation into an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer perimeter. The filter cartridge can also include a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the media pack outer perimeter. A radial flange extending from the circumferential shell proximate the media pack inlet end can also be provided. The flange can define a plurality of openings that are configured to receive protrusions 28 on a housing body 20 of an air cleaner assembly. An interaction between the protrusions and openings operates to ensure a secure seal between the housing body and a seal member.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 41

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications This application was filed as an international PCT application on November 27, 2018, and claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 591,169, filed November 27, 2017, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to a filter arrangement for use in filtering air, typically such as the intake air of an internal combustion engine, and more particularly to a filter assembly including multiple components arranged within a housing to provide a desired filtering capacity. [Background technology]

[0003] Filtration of air or other gases is desirable in many systems. A typical application is the filtration of intake air to an internal combustion engine. Another application is the filtration of crankcase ventilation filter assemblies. Typically, such systems include a filter assembly having a serviceable filter cartridge therein. After a period of use, the filter media within the filter housing requires maintenance, either by cleaning or complete replacement. Typically, in the case of an air cleaner or crankcase ventilation filter assembly used in, for example, a vehicle's internal combustion engine, the filter media is contained in a removable, replaceable, or serviceable, component, typically referred to as a filter element or cartridge. The filter cartridge is configured to be removably sealed within the air cleaner during use. Improvements in filter configurations related to assembly, serviceability, and / or use are desirable. Filter cartridges can be provided as primary (e.g., primary) filter cartridges or secondary (e.g., secondary or safety) filter cartridges. An air cleaner assembly can include only a primary filter cartridge or both a primary and secondary filter cartridge. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly is disclosed.

[0005] In one example, the filter cartridge can include a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends. The media pack can have a length and a width defining an outer periphery, the length being greater than the width. The media pack can also be referred to as having one or more long sides. The filter cartridge can include a radially oriented sealing member disposed around the outer periphery of the media pack. The filter cartridge can further include a first member of a protrusion-receive arrangement for engaging with a second member of a protrusion-receive arrangement disposed on the housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member being disposed along the length of the outer periphery of the media pack.

[0006] In one example, the first member is provided on a flange extending radially from the outer periphery of the media pack.

[0007] In one example, a circumferential shell that surrounds at least a portion of the periphery of the media pack.

[0008] In one example, the first member is provided on a flange extending radially from the circumferential shell.

[0009] In one example, the first member defines an opening for receiving the protrusion of the second member.

[0010] In one example, the first member includes a plurality of first members.

[0011] In one example, at least some of the plurality of first members define an opening.

[0012] In one example, the plurality of first members are spaced apart.

[0013] In one example, the radially oriented seal member and the first member are positioned closer to the media pack inlet end than to the media pack outlet end.

[0014] In one example, the first member is positioned closer to the inlet end of the media pack compared to the radially oriented seal member.

[0015] In one example, the first members include at least one first member disposed along a first long side of the media pack and at least one first member disposed along a second long side of the media pack.

[0016] In one example, the first member includes two first members disposed on a first long side of the media pack.

[0017] In one example, the first member is a protrusion.

[0018] In one example, the first member is an axially extending protrusion.

[0019] In one example, the flange extends continuously around the circumference of the media pack.

[0020] In one example, an air cleaner is disclosed that includes an openable cleaner housing defining an interior area and an interior sealing surface, and any of the filter cartridges disclosed herein.

[0021] In one example, the air cleaner assembly includes a projection-receive arrangement including a first member and a second member. The first member can be disposed along a circumferential length of the media pack. The second member can be disposed on the housing.

[0022] In one example, the first member includes a plurality of openings and the second member includes a plurality of protrusions.

[0023] In one example, the openable cleaner housing cover includes a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the plurality of protrusions.

[0024] In one example, the second member is tapered.

[0025] In one example, the radially oriented sealing member includes at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal against an interior sealing surface of the housing, and the base portion abuts the housing to inhibit deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

[0026] In one example, a filter cartridge can include a media pack configured to be mounted within an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack defining an outer periphery. The filter cartridge can also include a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the outer periphery of the media pack. A radial flange can also be provided extending from the circumferential shell near the media pack inlet end. The flange can define a plurality of openings configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly. In some examples, the openings extend completely through the thickness of the radial flange. In some examples, the openings are pocket structures with open ends for receiving the protrusions.

[0027] In one example, the filter cartridge has a first length and a first width, the first length being greater than the first width, and the plurality of openings being disposed along the first length of the filter cartridge.

[0028] In one example, the plurality of openings are configured as slots extending through the radial flange.

[0029] In one example, the circumferential shell only partially surrounds the media pack.

[0030] In one example, the filter cartridge has an oval shape.

[0031] In one example, the media pack is fluted media.

[0032] In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least two openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least three openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes four or more openings.

[0033] In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least two openings. In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least three openings.

[0034] In one example, the plurality of openings includes at least one opening on a first flange segment and at least one opening on a second flange segment opposite the first flange segment. In one example, the number of openings on the first flange segment is not equal to the number of openings on the second flange segment. In one example, the number of openings on the first flange segment is equal to the number of openings on the second flange segment. In one example, the first flange segment includes one opening and the second flange segment includes two openings.

[0035] In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes: a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer periphery, the length being greater than the width; and a radially oriented seal member disposed around the outer periphery of the media pack, the radially oriented seal member including at least one lip seal extending from a base portion for forming a seal with a housing of the air cleaner assembly, the base portion configured to abut the housing to inhibit deflection of the housing in a direction toward the media pack.

[0036] In one example, the filter cartridge includes a first member of a projection-receiving arrangement for engaging a second member of a projection-receiving arrangement located on the housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member being located along the circumferential length of the media pack.

[0037] In one example, the at least one lip seal includes a pair of lip seals.

[0038] In one example, the filter cartridge includes a protruding member extending from the seal base portion, hi one example, the protruding member is positioned between a pair of lip seals.

[0039] In one example, a filter cartridge is disclosed that includes a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining a periphery, the length being greater than the width; a seal member extending at least partially around the periphery of the media pack; and a first member of a protrusion-receive arrangement for engaging a second member of a protrusion-receive arrangement disposed on a housing of an air cleaner assembly, the first member disposed along the periphery length of the media pack.

[0040] In one example, the first member is disposed between the seal member and the inlet flow end of the media pack.

[0041] In one example, the first member is disposed between the seal member and the outlet flow end of the media pack.

[0042] In one example, the filter cartridge includes a support structure that extends around the periphery of the media pack, and the first member is supported by the support structure.

[0043] In one example, the support structure is a circumferential shell.

[0044] In one example, the first member includes a plurality of first members.

[0045] In one example, the plurality of first members are separate components that are individually supported on the filter cartridge.

[0046] In one example, the plurality of first members are commonly supported by a support structure.

[0047] In one example, the plurality of first members are commonly supported by a flange member.

[0048] In one example, the filter cartridge further includes a radially outward contact surface for inhibiting deflection of the housing in a radially inward direction.

[0049] In one example, the radially outward contact surface and the seal member are formed from the same material.

[0050] In one example, the seal member is formed as an injection molded TPE material.

[0051] In one example, the first member has a radially inward contact surface for engaging a second member on the housing to restrain deflection of the housing in a radially outward direction.

[0052] In one example, the sealing member includes at least one lip seal.

[0053] In one example, the sealing member includes a pair of lip seals.

[0054] In one example, the seal member includes a protruding member extending from the seal base portion.

[0055] In one example, the protruding member is disposed between a pair of lip seals.

[0056] In one example, the seal member is axially disposed between the first member and the radially outward contact surface.

[0057] In one example, the first member is closer to the inlet end of the media pack than to the outlet end.

[0058] In one example, a filter cartridge is disclosed that includes a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer periphery, the length being greater than the width; a sealing member extending at least partially around the outer periphery of the media pack; and a first member of a mounting arrangement for engaging a second member of a mounting arrangement disposed on a housing of an air cleaner assembly, the first member cooperating with the second member to secure the filter cartridge to the housing.

[0059] In one example, the first member is movable between a latched position and an unlatched position.

[0060] In one example, the first member is rotatable between a latched position and an unlatched position.

[0061] In one example, the first member is rotatable about a living hinge.

[0062] In one example, the filter cartridge includes two first members.

[0063] In one example, the first members are disposed on two opposing first sides of the filter cartridge.

[0064] In one example, two first opposing sides of the filter cartridge have larger dimensions than two second opposing sides of the filter cartridge.

[0065] In one example, the filter cartridge includes standoff members that extend beyond the outlet flow end of the filter cartridge media in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge.

[0066] In one example, the standoff members include four standoff members.

[0067] In one example, the standoff members are integrally formed with a frame that surrounds the media pack.

[0068] In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining an outer periphery, the length being greater than the width, and a radially oriented sealing member including a first segment and a second segment, the first and second segments being parallel to one another, the first segment being axially disposed between the inlet and outlet flow ends, and the second segment being axially disposed beyond the inlet or outlet end.

[0069] In one example, the radially oriented seal members are injection molded onto a frame that surrounds the periphery of the media pack.

[0070] In one example, the filter cartridge includes a circumferential flange structure proximate the inlet end of the media pack.

[0071] In one example, the circumferential flange is integrally formed with an outer frame that surrounds the media pack.

[0072] In one example, the circumferential flange forms a handle structure for installing and removing the filter cartridge.

[0073] In one example, the first and second segments of the seal member are joined by third and fourth segments to form a closed loop, the third and fourth segments extending at an oblique angle relative to the first and second segments.

[0074] In one example, a precleaner assembly for an air cleaner includes a first housing component defining at least one separator tube and a second housing component defining at least one outlet tube received by the at least one separator tube, the first and second housing components secured together by a snap-fit ​​connection.

[0075] In one example, the snap-fit ​​connection includes at least one opening in one of the first and second housing components and at least one deflectable latch arm received by at least one opening in the other of the first and second housing components.

[0076] In one example, the at least one opening includes two openings and the at least one deflectable latch arm includes two deflectable latch arms.

[0077] In one example, a filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly includes a media pack configured to be mounted within an air cleaner housing, the media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends and defining an outer periphery; a circumferential shell surrounding at least a portion of the outer periphery of the media pack; a flange structure extending from the circumferential shell near the media pack inlet end; a plurality of open pocket areas defined by the radial flange, the plurality of open pocket areas configured to receive protrusions on a housing body of the air cleaner assembly; and a seal arrangement supported on the flange structure.

[0078] In one example, the seal arrangement is an outward facing radial seal.

[0079] In one example, at least one of the plurality of open pocket regions is radially disposed between the circumferential shell and the seal arrangement.

[0080] In one example, the sealing arrangement includes at least one radially outwardly directed lip seal for forming a seal against an inner surface of the air cleaner housing.

[0081] Various additional aspects are set forth in the following description, which can relate to individual features and combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts underlying the examples disclosed herein.

[0082] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0083] [Figure 1] 1 is a first perspective view of a schematic diagram of an air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a second perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a third perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a fourth perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a first side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a second side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a third side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a fourth side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a first end view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a second end view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 11] 2 is a first perspective exploded view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a second perspective exploded view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 13] 2 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a second view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a first perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1 with the cover assembly removed. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a second perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 17] FIG. 16 is a first side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 18] FIG. 16 is a second side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 19] FIG. 16 is a first end view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15. [Figure 20] 2 is a first perspective view of a filter cartridge installed in the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1; [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a second perspective view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 21 is a first side view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 23] FIG. 21 is a second side view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 24] FIG. 21 is a first end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 25] FIG. 21 is a second end view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 26] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 27] FIG. 21 is a first exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 28] FIG. 21 is a second exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 29] FIG. 21 is a first perspective view of the shell of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 20. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a second perspective view of the shell shown in FIG. 29. [Figure 31] FIG. 30 is a first end view of the shell shown in FIG. 29. [Figure 32] FIG. 30 is a second end view of the shell shown in FIG. 29. [Figure 33] FIG. 30 is a first side view of the shell shown in FIG. 29. [Figure 34]FIG. 30 is a second side view of the shell shown in FIG. 29. [Figure 35] 2 is a first perspective view of a cover assembly of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a second perspective view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 35. [Figure 37] FIG. 36 is a first side view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 35. [Figure 38] FIG. 36 is a second side view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 35. [Figure 39] FIG. 36 is a third side view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 35. [Figure 40] FIG. 36 is a first end view of the cover assembly shown in FIG. 35. [Figure 41] 2 is a first perspective view of a housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a second perspective view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 43] FIG. 42 is a first end view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 44] FIG. 42 is a first side view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 45] FIG. 42 is a second side view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 46] FIG. 42 is a third side view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 47] FIG. 42 is a fourth side view of the housing shown in FIG. 41. [Figure 48] 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 1 with the filter cartridge being installed into the housing of the air cleaner assembly. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 48 with the filter cartridge being further installed. [Figure 50] FIG. 49 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 48 with the filter cartridge fully installed. [Figure 51]FIG. 1 is a first perspective view of a schematic diagram of a second example air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 51 with the filter cartridge being installed into the housing of the air cleaner assembly. [Figure 53] FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 51 with the filter cartridge still being installed. [Figure 54] FIG. 53 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 52 with the filter cartridge fully installed. [Figure 55] 1 is a first perspective view of a schematic diagram of a third example air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure, with the air cleaner assembly cover removed. FIG. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a side view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 55, with the filter cartridge mounting members shown in the latched position. [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a top view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 56. [Figure 58] FIG. 57 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 56 showing the first mounting member in a latched position. [Figure 59] FIG. 57 is a partial cross-sectional view of the air cleaner shown in FIG. 56 showing the second mounting member in a latched position. [Figure 60] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the air filter cartridge of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 55. [Figure 61] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 55. [Figure 62] FIG. 61 is a top view of the air filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60. [Figure 63] FIG. 61 is a first side view of the air filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60. [Figure 64] FIG. 61 is a second side view of the air filter cartridge shown in FIG. 60. [Figure 65]FIG. 10 is a schematic first side view of a fourth example filter cartridge having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is a schematic second side view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 65. [Figure 67] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a fourth example air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 68] FIG. 68 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 67. [Figure 69] FIG. 68 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 67. [Figure 70] FIG. 68 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 67. [Figure 71] FIG. 68 is a side view of the primary and secondary filter cartridges of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 67. [Figure 72] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 73] FIG. 72 is a first side view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 74] FIG. 72 is a second side view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 75] FIG. 72 is a top view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 76] FIG. 77 is a bottom view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 76. [Figure 77] FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 78] FIG. 72 is a perspective view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 79] FIG. 72 is a top view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 80] FIG. 72 is a first side view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 81] FIG. 72 is a second side view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 71. [Figure 82]FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a fifth example air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 83] FIG. 83 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 84] FIG. 83 is a first side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 85] FIG. 83 is a second side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 86] FIG. 83 is a third side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 87] FIG. 83 is a fourth side view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 88] FIG. 83 is a bottom view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 89] FIG. 83 is a top view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 90] FIG. 83 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 91] FIG. 83 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 92] FIG. 83 is a top perspective view of a precleaner assembly of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 82. [Figure 93] FIG. 93 is a bottom perspective view of the precleaner assembly shown in FIG. 92. [Figure 94] FIG. 93 is an exploded view of the precleaner assembly shown in FIG. 92. [Figure 95] FIG. 93 is a cross-sectional view of the precleaner assembly shown in FIG. 92. [Figure 96] FIG. 93 is a bottom perspective view of the secondary filter cartridge of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 92. [Figure 97] FIG. 97 is a top perspective view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 98] FIG. 97 is a side view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 99] FIG. 97 is a cross-sectional view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 100] FIG. 97 is a bottom view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 101] FIG. 97 is a top view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 102] FIG. 97 is a first end view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 103] FIG. 97 is a second end view of the secondary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 96. [Figure 104] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view of a sixth example air cleaner assembly having features according to the present disclosure. [Figure 105] FIG. 105 is an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 104. [Figure 106] FIG. 105 is a first cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 104. [Figure 107] FIG. 105 is a second cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 104. [Figure 108] FIG. 105 is a perspective view of the housing of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 104. [Figure 109] FIG. 109 is a top view of the housing shown in FIG. 108. [Figure 110] FIG. 105 is a perspective view of the main filter cartridge of the air cleaner assembly shown in FIG. 104. [Figure 111] FIG. 111 is a first side view of the main filter cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 112] FIG. 111 is a second side view of the main filter cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 113] FIG. 111 is a bottom view of the main filter cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 114] FIG. 111 is a top view of the main filter cartridge shown in FIG. [Figure 115] FIG. 111 is a first perspective view of the outer shell of the primary filter cartridge shown in FIG. 110. [Figure 116] FIG. 116 is a second perspective view of the outer shell shown in FIG. 115. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0084] Various examples are described in detail with reference to the drawings. Like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various examples does not limit the scope of the claims appended hereto. Moreover, the examples described herein are not intended to be limiting, but merely set forth some of the many possible examples of the scope of the appended claims. Referring to the drawings, like reference numerals correspond to like or similar components throughout the several views. Overall structure 1-14, a filter assembly 100 is shown. In many instances, the illustrated filter assembly 100 is an air cleaner assembly 100 used, for example, to filter the intake air of an internal combustion engine. Further applications are possible, for example, where the filter assembly 100 is a crankcase ventilation filter assembly, where the filter cartridge is used to filter crankcase blow-by gases, which typically contain both particulate and liquid contaminants. Both types of filter assemblies are generally referred to as "gas filter assemblies" because the carrier stage being filtered is a gas (air or crankcase ventilation gas). While the techniques described herein are typically used in gas filtration applications, they can be used in filtering other materials, such as liquids, if desired.

[0085] Referring now to the figures, wherein components are labeled with like numerals throughout the several views, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an air cleaner 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Air cleaner 10 includes a housing body 20 and a cover assembly 30 that cooperatively define an interior region 20i in which a primary removable filter cartridge 100 and a secondary removable filter cartridge 200 are disposed. Air cleaner assembly 10 further includes an air inlet end 50 through which air to be filtered enters assembly 10. Air cleaner assembly 10 further includes an outlet 40 disposed for the exit of filtered air. Outlet 40 may be fabricated separately from and attached to housing body 20, or may be integrally configured as part of housing body 20.

[0086] In one aspect, the illustrated air cleaner assembly 10 is a two-stage air cleaner assembly that includes a precleaner 60 as part of the cover assembly 30. In one aspect, the cover assembly 30 is provided as two separable components 30a, 30b, where the cover body 30a is embodied in the sidewall 32 and the precleaner 60 is embodied as the second component 30b. Components 30a, 30b can be secured to the housing body 20 via fasteners (e.g., screws) 30c. The precleaner 60 is generally used to purify selected materials or contaminants carried by the airflow into the air cleaner assembly 10 before the air reaches a filter cartridge disposed therein. The precleaner generally includes multiple separator tubes 62 or centrifugal separators that receive air, spin the air to remove large particles, and then allow precleaned air to exit the precleaner. The separator tubes 62 are most easily visible in the cross-sectional views shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 . The precleaned air from the separator tubes 62 exits the precleaner 60 at an outlet 64 and then enters the inlet flow face of the filter cartridge 100. A scavenge port or outlet 66 may be provided in the cover assembly 30 to remove separated large particles. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 14, fourteen separator tubes 64 are provided. More or fewer separator tubes may be provided. The air cleaner assembly 10 may be provided without a precleaner assembly, such that the air cleaner assembly 10 is a single-stage assembly with only the primary filter cartridge 100 or with both the primary and secondary filter cartridges 100, 200.

[0087] In one aspect, the housing body 20 is defined by a peripheral sidewall 22 defined by a pair of long, straight sides 22a and a pair of short, curved sides 22b. In one aspect, the long, straight sides 22a are relatively flexible, particularly compared to the sides 22b. The sidewall 22 extends from an open end 22c for receiving the filter cartridge 100, 200 to an outlet end 22d proximate the outlet 40. The housing body 20 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 41 through 47. As shown, the peripheral sidewall 22 extends to a radial flange wall 24 proximate the open end 22a. The flange wall 24 is for supporting a corresponding flange 125 (described below) of the filter cartridge 100. An axial flange wall 26 is also shown extending from the radial flange wall 24. The axial flange wall 26 of the housing body 20 cooperates with the axial flange wall 26 of the cover assembly 30 to form a weather barrier to prevent moisture and contaminants from entering the filter housing generally. As shown, a plurality of axial projections 28 extend from the radial flange wall 24.

[0088] The axial projections 28 are received by corresponding openings 127 (described below) in the filter cartridge 100. Together, the projections 28 and openings 127 form cooperating components of a projection-receiving configuration, where the openings 127 can be referred to as the first component 127 of the projection-receiving configuration and the projections can be referred to as the second component 28. In one aspect, the axial projections 28 are tapered with angled surfaces 28a to allow for easier initial alignment of the projections 28 within the openings 127 and a smooth transition through the entire thickness of the projections 28, resulting in a gradual increase in tension. While the angled surfaces 28a are shown facing outward from the housing body 20, the angled surfaces 28a can also be positioned to face inward toward the longitudinal axis of the housing body. In the illustrated embodiment, the protrusions 28 contact only the radially inward-facing portions of the openings 127 on the sides of the inclined surfaces 28a, so that the interaction between the openings 127 and the protrusions 28 acts only to restrain radially outward deflection of the relatively flexible housing sidewall long sides 22a. While protrusions 28 with inclined surfaces 28a could be provided on both sides of the protrusions 28 so that the interaction between the protrusions 28 and the openings 127 would restrain the sidewall long sides 22a in both the inward and outward radial directions, the need to move the protrusions radially outward could result in a larger filter cartridge 100. Thus, the disclosed configuration utilizing the protrusions 28 and openings to provide outward restraint on the housing sidewall 22a results in a more compact configuration.

[0089] As shown, the protrusions 28 are disposed along the long sides 22a of the flange wall 24. In the embodiment shown, the protrusions 28 are configured as elongated members extending longitudinally parallel to the long sides 24a of the flange wall 24. As shown, one protrusion 28 is provided on one of the long sides 24a of the flange wall 24 and two protrusions 28 are provided on the other side. However, other configurations are possible, such as providing two or more protrusions 28 on each long side 24a. Although the protrusions 28 are shown as elongated members, the protrusions 28 can be formed from a variety of shapes, for example, prismatic geometric shapes such as circles, triangles, squares, etc.

[0090] In one aspect, the housing body 20 defines a pair of recesses or cavities 22e disposed along the short sides 22b of the housing body 20. The recesses 22e form part of a receiver-protrusion arrangement and are configured to receive correspondingly shaped protrusions 121 of the filter cartridge 100. The interaction between the recesses 22e and the protrusions 121, which cooperate to form the receiver-protrusion arrangement, allows the filter cartridge 100 to be properly aligned with the housing body 20 such that the seal member 130 of the filter cartridge properly seals against the sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. The protrusions 121 and seal member 130 of the filter cartridge 100 are discussed further in the following sections.

[0091] In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly 10 may include a mounting system 12 for mounting the air cleaner assembly 10 to a structure, such as a portion of a vehicle. As shown, the mounting system 12 is presented as a pair of feet or ribs 12a extending from the housing body 20. The feet 12a may include openings 12b for receiving screws or bolts. In some examples, the openings 12b are threaded.

[0092] In one aspect, air cleaner assembly 10 can include an airflow sensing system 14 for measuring airflow exiting air cleaner assembly 10. In one aspect, airflow sensing system 14 includes airflow measurement component 14a. In one example, airflow measurement component 14a includes a mechanical airflow restriction indicator. Housing body 20 can include port 14b for receiving airflow measurement component 14a.

[0093] In one aspect, the air cleaner assembly 10 may include a locking or latching mechanism 90 for securing the cover assembly 30 to the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the latching mechanism 90 includes a pair of over-center-type latches 92 that secure one side of the interface between the cover assembly 30 and the housing body 20. More or fewer latches 92 may be provided. Different styles of latches may also be provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the latches 92 are attached to the cover assembly 30 and engage latch connection portions 92a located on the housing body 20. Alternatively, the latches 92 may be attached to the housing body 20.

[0094] On the side of the air cleaner assembly 10 opposite the latch 90, the housing body 20 includes a pair of first interface members 94, and the cover assembly 30 includes a pair of second interface members 96. As configured, each of the first interface members 94 defines a pair of central openings 94a, and each of the second interface members 96 defines a pair of laterally extending projections 96a. The central opening 94a of each first interface member 94 receives one of the laterally extending projections 96a of the second interface members 96 while allowing rotation of the cover assembly 30 relative to the housing body 20. The cover assembly 30 is introduced into the housing body 20 by first inserting the laterally extending projections 96a into the openings 94a and then rotating the cover assembly 30 to the closed position relative to the housing body 20. In the closed position, the latch 92 can engage with the housing body latch connecting portion 92a to secure the cover assembly 30 to the housing body 20. Although two interface members 94, 96 are shown, and two openings 94a and two protrusions 96a are shown for each interface member 94, 96, more or fewer interface members and / or protrusions and openings may be provided. Additionally, in some configurations, the openings 94a may be provided in the cover assembly 30, and the protrusions 96a may be provided in the housing body 20.

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the cover assembly 30 is defined by a peripheral wall 32 and a flange wall 34. The cover assembly 30 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 35-40. In one aspect, the peripheral wall 32 and the flange wall 34 each have a pair of long, straight sides 32a, 34a adjacent to a pair of short, curved sides 32b, 34b. At the location of the projection 28 on the housing body 28, the cover assembly 30 includes a recess or cavity portion 36 for receiving the projection 28. Thus, when the cover assembly 30 is rotated to the closed position, the projection 28 does not interfere with the closing motion. The cover assembly 30 also includes a radial flange wall 34 extending from the peripheral wall 32. When the cover assembly 30 is in the closed position, the flange wall 34 of the cover assembly 30 and the flange wall 24 of the body 20 sandwich the flange wall 125 of the filter cartridge 100 to secure the filter cartridge 100 in the installed position. As previously mentioned, cover assembly 30 also includes axially extending flange wall 38 which functions as a weatherproof barrier in conjunction with flange wall 26 of housing body 20. Flange wall 38 is not shown as extending completely around flange wall 34, although such a configuration is possible. Filter Cartridge 100 20-34, an exemplary embodiment of a filter cartridge 100 of the air cleaner assembly 10 is shown. The filter cartridge 100 extends between a first end 102 and a second end 104. In one aspect, the first end 102 may be characterized as the upstream end of the filter cartridge 100, and the second end 104 may be characterized as the downstream end of the filter cartridge 100. The filter cartridge 100 may be considered a primary or main filter cartridge and is used to selectively separate a desired amount of particulate or entrapped matter.

[0096] Typically, the filter cartridge 100 is a service part or removable component, so that it can be removed and replaced periodically as desired or necessary during the life of the air cleaner 10. In particular, when the cartridge 100 becomes blocked or requires replacement, the cover assembly 30 is unlocked from the housing body 20 and the blocked filter 100 is removed. After such removal, another filter 100 can be placed within the housing body 20 by inserting the filter cartridge 100.

[0097] The filter cartridge 100 generally includes a media pack 110 , a shell 120 , a seal member 130 at the inlet end of the media pack 110 , and a second shell 140 .

[0098] In one aspect, the seal member 130 is generally made of a relatively flexible material, sometimes referred to herein as a "flexible seal member," and can include pinch, axial (i.e., facing in a direction or plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge), or radial (i.e., facing in a direction or plane parallel to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge) seal members. In the example shown, the flexible material is an injection-molded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The seal member 130 may also be formed from other materials, such as polyurethane. The retention features of the housing and filter cartridge disclosed herein are particularly advantageous for use in configurations with filter cartridges equipped with radial seal members. In one example, the seal member 130 is provided as an injection-molded gasket molded directly onto the shell 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the seal member 130 is provided as an injection-molded gasket having a pair of radially acting parallel lip seals 132 (132a, 132b). In some configurations, the seal member 130 may be formed directly on or secured directly to the media pack 110. In one aspect, the lip seal 132 may be characterized as an outwardly facing radial seal that seals against the interior or inner surface of the housing body 20 within the interior region 20i.

[0099] 26, further details of the seal member 130 are shown. In one aspect, two seal lips 132a, 132b extend from the base portion 130a at an oblique angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the filter cartridge, such that the seal lips extend radially outward and axially toward the first end 102. The seal arrangement 130 also includes a bumper protrusion 133 extending from the base portion 130a at a location between the seal lips 132a, 132b. The bumper protrusion 133, which is a radially outwardly extending area of ​​thicker material, helps to maintain the filter cartridge 100 in a generally centered position within the housing body 20 and limits radial movement of the filter cartridge 100 within the housing body 20. The bumper protrusion 133 therefore ensures that the seal lips 132a, 132b do not become overly compressed on one side and then decompress on the opposite side, potentially breaking their seal against the housing body 20. The bumper protrusion 133 can also be located in other locations.

[0100] As shown, the shell 120 includes a pair of protrusions 121 that are received in corresponding recesses 22e defined in the housing body 20. In the illustrated example, the protrusions 121 are trapezoidal, with a central portion thereof bounded by angled surfaces extending from the peripheral wall 122 and flange wall 125 of the shell 120. The seal member 130 is biased toward the second end 104 of the filter cartridge 100 adjacent the protrusions 121, such that the seal member 130 is located between the protrusions 121 and the second end 104 of the filter cartridge 100. In other locations, a portion of the seal member 130 is disposed in a flush relationship with the protrusions 121. In an alternative configuration, the protrusions 121 may be provided on the housing body 20, and the receiving arrangement 22 may be provided on the filter cartridge 100. In one aspect, the shell protrusion 121 and seal member 130 are configured in a manner similar to that shown and described in PCT Patent Application Publication WO 2017 / 106752, published June 22, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. WO '752 discloses trapezoidally shaped, angled protrusions and axially biased seal members. In one aspect, the flange wall 125 and protrusion 121 cooperate with the housing 20 to form a weatherproof barrier, shielding the seal member 130 from the external environment. In one aspect, the protrusion 121 functions to fix the rotational and / or axial position of the filter cartridge 100 relative to the housing 20.

[0101] In the illustrated example, the media pack 110 has an inlet flow face 112 that receives unfiltered or pre-purified air from the precleaner (if provided) and an outlet flow face 114 that delivers filtered air. The media pack 110 is shown alone in FIG. 70. In the illustrated example, the media pack 110 has an oval cross-sectional shape, such that the media pack 110 and filter cartridge 100 have a pair of long, straight sides 110 a, 100 a and a pair of short, rounded sides 110 b, 100 b. However, other shapes are possible, such as curved, rounded, elliptical, kidney-shaped, lemniscate-shaped (i.e., FIG. 8, peanut-shaped, or binocular-shaped), and rectangular cross-sectional shapes. If such other shapes are provided, the housing 20 can similarly have a shape such that the seal member 130 can form a seal with the sealing surface 22 f of the housing body 20. In such configurations, the "long sides" or "lengths" of the filter and housing can be characterized as the sides or portions of the circumference having the longest dimension and / or running generally along or parallel to the axis of the longest dimension extending through the filter and housing. Similarly, the "short sides" or "widths" of the filter and housing can be characterized as the sides or portions of the circumference having the shortest dimension and / or running generally along or parallel to the axis of the shorter dimension extending through the filter and housing. For example, a kidney-shaped filter would have longer concave and convex shaped sides, characterized as the long sides or lengths, interconnected by two shorter ends, characterized as the shorter sides or widths. Similarly, a lemniscate-shaped filter element would have two long sides extending between two end lobes and interconnecting recesses, and two short sides extending around the ends of each lobe.

[0102] In one aspect, the media pack 110 defines a periphery 116 extending between an inlet flow face 112 and an outlet flow face 114. In the illustrated example, the media pack 110 is formed from a coiled media structure, e.g., a media structure having fluted (usually corrugated) media sheets and facing media sheets that together define parallel flutes to form a fluted or z-filter media structure. Suitable media configurations for the media pack 110 are discussed in more detail in the Media Types and Configurations section.

[0103] In one embodiment, the shells 120 and 140 of the filter cartridge 100 are formed from a polymeric material, such as ABS plastic. The shell 120 is shown in isolation in Figures 27-34. In one embodiment, the shell 120 defines a peripheral wall 122 that surrounds a portion of the perimeter 116 of the media pack 110, and the shell 140 defines a peripheral wall 142 that surrounds a portion of the perimeter 116 of the media pack. A grid structure 123 is also shown comprising the shell 120 for supporting the inlet flow face 114 of the media pack 110. A grid structure 143 is also shown comprising the shell 140 for supporting the outlet flow face 114 of the media pack 110. The shells 120, 140 can be provided without the grid structures 123, 143. However, the grid structures 123, 143 help prevent the wound media pack 110 from nesting. The shells 120, 140 may be secured to the media pack 110 by an adhesive. Notably, the grid structure 123 helps provide structural integrity to the filter cartridge 100 in the direction between the openings 127 so that the filter cartridge 100 is not pulled apart by the forces of interaction between the projections 28 and the openings 127. In one aspect, the peripheral wall 122 may surround a portion of the media pack perimeter 116, as shown, or may surround the entire media pack perimeter 116. In the latter case, the shells 120 and 140 may be integrally formed.

[0104] In one aspect, shell 120 can be more generally characterized as a support structure that supports flange 125 (and opening 127) and grid structure 123. Additionally, the support structure can be configured as a support ring or frame that is directly connected to media pack 110 without necessarily having a shell-like structure that extends around the periphery of the media pack.

[0105] Shell 120 is also shown as being integrally formed with a pair of handles 124 extending from flange wall 125 to allow an operator to remove and install filter cartridge 100. In the illustrated example, handles 124 are formed with shell 120 such that an open space 124a exists between handles 124 and flange wall 125 of shell 120 to allow an operator to grasp handles 124.

[0106] The shell 120 is also shown as including a radially extending flange wall 125. The flange wall 125 extends radially from the shell peripheral wall 122 beyond the outer periphery 116 of the media pack 110. Similar to the media pack 110, the flange wall 125 includes a pair of long, straight sides 125a and a pair of short, rounded sides 125b. The flange wall 125 is positioned proximate the inlet flow face 112 and defines the distal-most end of the inlet of the filter cartridge 100, despite the presence of the handle 124. When the filter cartridge 100 is installed within the housing body 20, the flange wall 125 abuts a corresponding flange 24 on the housing body 20. Thus, the filter cartridge 100 is supported by the housing body 20 via the flange wall 125.

[0107] In one aspect, the flange wall 125 includes a plurality of openings 127 disposed along the long sides 125a of the flange wall 125. As most readily seen in FIG. 26 , the openings 127 are laterally offset from the media pack perimeter 116 and the shell peripheral wall 122. This offset allows the openings 127 to receive correspondingly shaped protrusions 28 extending from the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 127 are configured as longitudinally extending slots parallel to the long sides 125a of the flange wall 125. As shown, one opening 127 is provided on one of the long sides 125a and two openings 127 are provided on the other long side 125a of the flange wall 125. However, other configurations are possible, such as providing two or more openings 127 on each long side 125a. While the openings 127 are shown as elongated openings, the openings 127 can be formed from a variety of geometric shapes, such as circles, triangles, squares, and the like. Additionally, the openings 127 may be formed from discrete or separate flange-type members rather than the single continuous flange 125 shown.

[0108] When the filter cartridge 100 is installed in the housing 20, the protrusions 28 of the housing body 20 are fully received in the openings 127 of the filter cartridge 100, stabilizing the flexible sides 22a of the housing body 20. Simultaneously, the side walls 122 of the shell 120 are retracted into the housing body interior region 20i, and the base members 130a of the seal members 130 contact the inner surfaces of the housing body peripheral walls 122. Thus, the shell side walls 122 and base members 130a provide an outward restraint to the housing body side walls 22 that prevents inward deflection of the housing body side walls 22, while the protrusions 28 and openings 127 accommodate both inward and outward deflection of the body side walls 122. The disclosed configuration also compensates for manufacturing tolerances by positively positioning the sealing surfaces 22f against the filter cartridge seal members 130. In one configuration, the filter cartridge 100 and body 22 are designed so that there is no contact between the base member 103a / shell side wall 122 and the housing body peripheral wall 122, where the protrusions 28 and openings 127 are the only features that stabilize the housing body 20. However, if such contact is provided, the stability of the housing body 20 is improved. Figures 13-19 show the filter cartridge 100 in such a position relative to the housing body 20.

[0109] Because the filter cartridge 100 includes an outwardly extending radial seal member 130 that seals against the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20, outward deflection of the housing body 20 can potentially create a leak path between the housing body 20 and the seal member 130. The location where such deflection is most likely to occur is along the long side 22a of the housing body 20. This situation is particularly prevalent when oval or rectangular filter cartridges 100 and housing bodies 20 with relatively high length-to-width aspect ratios are used. To ensure that such outward deflection does not occur, the protrusions 28 and openings 127 are positioned along the long side 22a of the housing body 20. When the filter cartridge 100 is installed within the housing body 20, the protrusions 28 are locked into the openings 127. Therefore, the openings 127 of the filter cartridge 100 prevent the protrusions 28 from deflecting radially outward. Because the protrusions 28 are part of the housing body 20, the long sides 22a of the housing body 20 are likewise prevented from deflecting radially outward by the interaction between the openings 127 and the protrusions 28.

[0110] In the illustrated example, openings 127 act on protrusions 28 to draw housing body 20 inward into a desired shape, thereby controlling the shape of the housing body and creating a more effective seal. In such a configuration, ramped surfaces 28a help initially align protrusions 28 with openings 127. For example, referring to Figures 48 and 49, protrusions 28 can be seen drawing housing body peripheral wall 22 onto filter cartridge 100. Figure 50 shows the final retracted position of peripheral wall 22, where protrusions 28 are fully seated within openings 127 of filter cartridge 100.

[0111] Although protrusion 28 is shown as being associated with housing body 29 and opening 127 is shown as being associated with filter cartridge 100, filter cartridge 100 can include the protrusion and housing body 20 can include the opening. Furthermore, although opening 127 is shown as extending completely through flange wall 125, opening 127 can be formed as a pocket or cavity structure that similarly restricts movement of protrusion 28. Filter Cartridge 200 11-20, the exemplary air cleaner assembly 10 includes an optional secondary or safety filter cartridge 200. The safety filter cartridge 200 is shown in isolation in FIGS. 11 and 12. The safety filter 200 is generally positionable between the main filter cartridge 100 and the outlet 40 of the housing body 20. In a typical arrangement, the safety filter 200 is removably disposed within the air cleaner assembly 10 and may generally be considered a service component that is removable and replaceable as desired and / or needed.

[0112] The exemplary embodiment of the safety filter 200 includes an outer frame 202 that carries a seal member 204, generally conforms to the size and shape of the interior region of the housing body 20, and can seal to the inner surface of the housing body 20, preferably without any gaps. In this manner, the safety filter 200 can be pressed into the housing with a friction fit against the housing wall such that air cannot reach the outlet without first passing through the safety filter 200. The safety filter 200 can also include a filtration media 220, such as pleated media. A handle 206 can also be provided to assist in installing and removing the filter cartridge 200 from the housing 20. Tabs 206a that are received in recesses in the housing body 20 can also be provided on the filter cartridge 200 to help hold the filter cartridge 200 in place. Media type and composition Any type of filter media can be used as a media pack for filter cartridges 100, 200 according to embodiments of the present invention. Exemplary configurations include fluted filter media, such as a z-filter design. As used herein, the term "z-filter design" is meant to refer to a type of filter design that uses individual corrugated, folded, or otherwise formed filter flutes to define sets of longitudinal, typically parallel, inlet and outlet filter flutes for fluid flow through the media; fluid flows along the length of the flutes between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends (or flow faces) of the media. Some examples of filter media are provided in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,820,646; 5,772,883; 5,902,364; 5,792,247; 5,895,574; 6,210,469; 6,190,432; 6,350,296; 6,179,890; 6,235,195; D399,944; D428,128; D396,098; D398,046; and D437,401, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0113] One type of z-filter media utilizes two specific media components that are bonded together to form the media structure. The two components include a fluted (usually corrugated) media sheet and a facing media sheet. Typically, the facing media sheet is not corrugated, but it can be corrugated (e.g., perpendicular to the flute direction) as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 543,804, filed February 11, 2004, published August 25, 2005 as PCT Publication WO 05 / 077487, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0114] The fluted media sheet and the facing media sheet are used together to define a media having parallel inlet and outlet flutes. In some examples, the fluted sheet and the facing sheet are secured together and then coiled into a media strip to form a z-filter media structure. Such configurations are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,235,195 and 6,179,890, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0115] In other particular configurations, several non-coiled sections or strips of fluted (usually corrugated) media secured to a facing media are stacked on top of each other to form the filter structure.

[0116] Corrugated media is a specific form of fluted media, where the fluted media has individual flutes or ridges (e.g., formed by corrugations or folds) extending across it. As used herein, the term "corrugation" refers to a structure in media, such as media having a flute structure that results from passing the media between two corrugating rollers (e.g., through a nip or bite between two rollers each having suitable surface features that impart corrugation to the resulting media).

[0117] A serviceable filter element or filter cartridge configuration utilizing z-filter media is sometimes referred to as a "straight-through configuration" or variations thereof. Generally, a serviceable filter element or cartridge has an inlet flow end (or face) and an opposite outlet flow end (or face), with flow entering and exiting the filter cartridge in generally the same straight-through direction. The term "serviceable" in this context is meant to refer to a media-containing filter cartridge that is periodically removed and replaced from a corresponding fluid (e.g., air) cleaner. Air cleaner 10 (Figures 51-54) Referring to Figures 51-54, a second example of an air cleaner 10 is shown. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in Figures 1-50. Therefore, where such similarities exist, the foregoing statements also apply to this example. The air cleaner 10 of Figures 51-54 differs from the first example in the manner in which the peripheral wall 22 of the housing body 20 is constrained. In this example, the opening 127 is configured as a pocket structure 127 defined by a radial flange structure 125 that receives a protrusion 28 on the housing body 20. As with the first example, when the filter cartridge 100 is fully installed, the pocket structure 127 contacts the protrusion 28, drawing the peripheral wall into the desired shape and ensuring a complete seal between the seal member 130 and the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. Air cleaner 10 (Figures 55-60) Referring to Figures 55-60, a third example of an air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in Figures 1-50. Therefore, where such similarities exist, the foregoing statements also apply to this example. The air cleaner 10 of Figures 55-60 differs from the first example in that only two protrusions 28 and openings 127 are provided on the long sides of the housing body 20 and flange 125, respectively. Additionally, the seal member 130 is shown as being positioned further toward the second end 104 of the filter cartridge 102 and further away from the flange 125, compared to the first example. Therefore, it is shown that the seal member 130 can be positioned adjacent to or away from the flange 125. The air cleaner 10 of Figures 55-60 is also shown as having a flange 125 at the short end 125b of the filter cartridge that divides it into two segments 125c, 125d, such that the flange segment 125d performs the same function as the protrusion 121 of the first example.

[0118] In contrast to other embodiments, flange 125 is not located adjacent first end 102, but is similarly located at a midpoint between first end 102 and second end 104. Note that flange 125 could also be located closer to second end 104. In one aspect, it is advantageous to locate the opening / protrusion that retains housing side wall 22 closer to seal member 130 so that potential deflection of flexible side wall 22 is minimized at the location of the seal.

[0119] In one aspect, the air cleaner of Figures 55-64 includes a mounting arrangement 150 for securing the filter cartridge 100 to the housing body 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter cartridge 100 includes a first mounting member 152, which in this example is configured as a pair of hinged latch members 152. The housing body 20 includes a second mounting member 154 interconnecting the first mounting member 152. In the illustrated example, the second mounting member 154 is configured as a rib structure 154 on the housing body side wall 22. In one aspect, the mounting arrangement 150 is provided on the long side 22a of the housing body side wall 22 and on the long side 100a of the filter cartridge 100.

[0120] As most readily seen in FIGS. 58, 59, and 62, the hinged latch member 152 has a body 152a defining an opening 152b through which the second mounting member 154 can extend. The hinged latch member 152 is also shown with a flanged member that an operator can use to grip the latch member 152 and that can also provide strength to the body 152a. In the illustrated example, the body 152a is connected to the flange 125 via a living hinge 152d. The rib structure 154 includes a body 154a that extends radially outward from the housing body sidewall 22 and includes an angled surface 154b and a latching surface 154c. The angled surface 154b allows the body 154a to more easily align and pass through the opening 152b in the latch member 152, while the latching surface 154c engages the side edge of the latch member body 152a defined by the opening 152b. Thus, the interaction between the latch member 152 and the rib structure 154 can be said to form a snap-fit ​​connection with one another.

[0121] FIG. 55 shows the latch member 152 in an open or unlatched position so that the filter cartridge 100 can be separated from the housing body 20, while FIGS. 56-59 show the latch member 152 in a latched or closed position so that the filter cartridge 100 is secured to the housing body 20. As should be appreciated, the mounting arrangement 150 further restrains the housing sidewall 22 from inward and outward flexing and, therefore, can be used in conjunction with the projection-receive arrangement 28 / 127 to stabilize the long sides 22a of the housing body sidewall 22. While the filter cartridge 100 is shown with a hinged latch member 152 and the housing 20 is shown with a ribbed structure 154, an inverse configuration could be employed such that one or both of the latch members 152 are disposed on the housing body 20 and one or both of the rib projections 154 are disposed on the filter cartridge 100. While two mounting arrangements 150 are shown, fewer or more could be provided. Air cleaner 10 (Figures 67-81) Referring to Figures 67-81, a fourth example of an air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in Figures 1-50. Therefore, the foregoing description applies to this example where such similarities exist. The air cleaner 10 of Figures 67-81 differs from the first example in several respects. For example, the seal arrangement 130 of the air filter cartridge 100 includes an additional axial seal member 132c. Additionally, the handle 124 of the filter cartridge 100 is configured differently. The filter cartridge 100 also includes standoff legs 144 to ensure that the filter cartridge 200 is fully seated and retained within the housing body 20. The filter cartridge 200 is also shown without tabs 206a. As discussed in the next section, the air filter cartridge 100 includes recesses 121a in the protrusions 121 for receiving the protrusions or guide members 67 of the precleaner or cover assembly 30.

[0122] As best seen in FIGS. 71-75 and 77 , seal arrangement 130 further includes seal member 132c. As configured, seal member 132c is formed on flange 125, for example, by injection molding a TPE lip-type seal onto the flange. In one embodiment, seal member 132c forms a closed loop on flange 125 and extends axially away from flange 125 at an oblique angle relative to longitudinal axis X. When installed, seal member 132c forms an axial seal with flange wall 34 of precleaner assembly 60. As best seen in FIG. 69 , flange wall 34 and flange 124 are generally parallel to one another, with seal member 132c extending therebetween. Forming a seal at this location ensures that all air processed through precleaner assembly 60 is directed to air filter cartridge 100.

[0123] The air filter cartridge 100 also includes handles 124 that are thinner and located differently compared to the first disclosed embodiment. As shown, the two handles 124 extend axially from the flange 125 and are located at diagonally opposite corners. Each handle 124 may include an opening 124a to accommodate an operator's finger so that a pulling force can be applied to the handle 124 to remove the filter cartridge 100. By incorporating the thin handles 124 into the design, less space is required between the precleaner outlet and the air filter cartridge inlet, thereby reducing the overall length of the air cleaner assembly 10. Furthermore, the disclosed design of the handles 124 allows for a simpler molding procedure in that the entire shell 120 can be formed in a closed-close injection molding process without the use of a slide gate.

[0124] The air filter cartridge 100 further includes standoff legs 144 extending from the peripheral wall 142 of the shell 140 in a direction generally parallel to the longitudinal axis X and the peripheral wall 142. In the illustrated example, the standoff legs 144 are integrally formed with the shell 140. However, the standoff legs 144 may be formed separately and subsequently attached. In the illustrated example, four standoff legs 144 are provided. However, more or fewer standoff legs 144 may be provided. When the filter cartridge 200 is at least partially installed, the standoff legs 144 of the filter cartridge 100 abut against the upper surface or flange 202a of the filter cartridge frame 202. Once this contact occurs, the installation force and movement of the filter cartridge 100 exerts pressure on the filter cartridge 200 via the standoff legs 144, fully seating the filter cartridge 200 in the installed position. Once installed, the standoff legs 144 function to hold the filter cartridge 200 in place. As can be seen most readily in FIG. 78 , the filter cartridge 200 includes a handle 206 that extends opposite the standoff legs 144 and resides within the gap defined by the standoff legs 144 between the outlet of the filter cartridge 100 and the inlet of the filter cartridge 200. Air cleaner 10 (Fig. 82-103) Referring to Figures 82-81, a fifth example of an air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in Figures 67-81. For example, the air filter cartridge 100 is generally of the same design. Similarities exist with the air cleaner 10 shown in Figures 1-50. Therefore, where such similarities exist, the preceding statements also apply to this example. The air cleaner 10 of Figures 82-103 differs from the other examples in several respects. For example, the air cleaner 10 includes a different safety filter cartridge 200 design and a different cover assembly 30 design.

[0125] 92-95, the cover assembly 30 is shown in isolation. The cover assembly 30 may be referred to as a precleaner assembly 30, which houses a precleaner 60. In one embodiment, a first component 30a is connected to a second component 30b to form the precleaner assembly 30 and the precleaner 60. A seal member 30d may be provided between the first component 30a and the housing body 20 to prevent air leakage. The precleaner 60 is generally used to purify selected materials or contaminants carried by the airflow into the air cleaner assembly 10 before the air reaches a filter cartridge disposed therein. The precleaner 60 generally includes a plurality of separator tubes 62 or centrifugal separators that receive and rotate the air to remove large particles, allowing the precleaned air to then exit the precleaner. As shown, the separator tubes 62 are formed on the second component 30b of the precleaner assembly 30. Precleaned air from the separator tubes 62 exits the precleaner 60 through an outlet tube 64 and then flows into the inlet flow face of the filter cartridge 100. As shown, the outlet tubes 64 are formed on the first component 30a of the precleaner assembly 30. A scavenge port or outlet 66 can be provided to remove separated, larger particles. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 92, fourteen separator tubes 70 are provided. More or fewer separator tubes 62 and corresponding outlet tubes 64 may be provided. The air precleaner assembly 30 can also include a guide member 67 extending from the first component 30a toward the interior of the housing body 20 and filter cartridge 100. In one aspect, the guide member 67 is received in a recess 121a formed by a protrusion 121 in the filter cartridge 100. Such a configuration provides further stabilization and positioning of the filter cartridge 100 within the housing body 20. This feature is also present in the example shown in FIGS. 67-81 and is most readily seen in FIGS. 70 and 72-75.The first component 30a of the precleaner assembly 30 may also include a radial flange portion 35 for closing a radial gap between the first component 30a and the housing body 20 to prevent the ingress of contaminants.

[0126] In contrast to the example shown in FIGS. 1-50, the first and second components 30a, 30b are secured together via a snap-fit ​​connection 33, independent of external fasteners (e.g., fastener 30c). Thus, when the precleaner assembly 30 of FIGS. 92-95 is removed from the housing body 20, the first and second components 30a, 30b remain connected to one another. In the example shown in FIGS. 1-50, the first and second components 30a, 30b are held together by the same fastener 30c that holds the components 30a, 30b to the housing body 20. Thus, when the fastener 30c is removed to access the filter cartridge 100, the components 30a, 30b are separated. Thus, the snap-fit ​​connection 33 has the advantage that an operator does not need to handle two separate components when accessing the interior of the housing body 20 to service the filter cartridges 100 and / or 200. In one aspect, the snap-fit ​​connection 33 is formed by a pair of recesses or openings 33a formed in the first component 30a and a corresponding pair of deflectable latch arms 33b formed in the second component 30b. As can be most easily seen in FIG. 95, the deflectable latch arms 33b each include an outwardly angled latch portion 33c that engages a capture surface 33d formed in the first component 30a adjacent the opening 33a.

[0127] When the second component 30b is mounted on the first component, the ramped surface 33e of the latch portion 33c guides and deflects the deflectable latch arm inward toward the opening 33a. When the second component 30b is further mounted on the first component 30c, the ramped surface 33e passes the catch surface 33d of the first component, and the deflectable latch arm 33b deflects outward toward its natural state until the latch surface 33f of the latch portion 33c engages the catch surface 33d. At this point, the first component 30a is secured to the second component 30b. As can be seen most easily in FIGS. 82 and 84-87, the assembled cover or precleaner assembly 30 can be secured to the housing body 20 via a clip or latch 90. In the illustrated example, the clip or latch 90 engages the second component 30b. Thus, the latch 90 operates to further secure the first and second components 30a, 30b together. In the illustrated example, the clip or latch 90 is a spring steel latch. Other types of latches made from various materials can be used without departing from the concepts presented herein.

[0128] 96-103, the filter cartridge 200 is shown in further detail. In one embodiment, the filter cartridge 200 includes an outer frame 202, a radial seal member 204, a circumferential flange structure 206, and a filtration media 220 extending between an inlet end 220a and an outlet end 220b. As shown, the filtration media is pleated media. However, other types of configurations, such as fluted media, are possible. In the illustrated example, the circumferential flange structure 206 is adjacent the inlet end 220a of the filtration media 220 and is integrally formed with the outer frame 202. The circumferential flange structure 206 extends radially outward from the outer frame 202 and functions to provide a handle surface for an operator during installation and removal of the filter cartridge 200. The circumferential flange structure 206 also abuts a portion of the housing body 20 (e.g., rib 20a) to ensure that the filter cartridge 200 is not installed beyond a desired position within the housing body 20. Additionally, the flange structure 206 functions to maintain spacing between the (non-sealing) inner surface of the housing body 20 and the seal member 204 during insertion of the filter cartridge 200, thereby preventing the seal member 204 from contacting the housing body 20 until it engages a designated sealing surface of the housing body 20. This function helps to prevent exposure of the seal member 204 to contaminants that may be present on the inner surface of the housing body 20. The outer frame 202 is also shown formed with pleat management structure 210 to ensure that the pleats are properly spaced and maintained.

[0129] In the illustrated example, seal member 204 is an injection-molded thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). Seal member 204 may also be formed from other materials, such as polyurethane. In one example, seal member 204 is provided as an injection-molded gasket molded directly onto outer frame 202. In the illustrated embodiment, seal member 204 is provided as an injection-molded gasket including radial lip seal 204a and bumper portion 204b. In one aspect, seal member 204 includes first segment 204c that surrounds filtration media 220, with segment 204c being axially disposed between a plane defined by inlet end 220a and outlet end 220b of filtration media 220. Seal member 204 is also shown as including second segment 204d that is disposed beyond the plane defined by outlet end 220b of filtration media. To facilitate this configuration, as shown in FIG. 99 , the outer frame 202 is provided with an extension height H2 supporting the second segment 204d that is greater than the height H1 of the support frame portion supporting the first segment 204c. Third and fourth segments 204e, 204f of the seal member 204 are provided to join the first and second segments 204c, 204d together. In one aspect, the first and second segments 204c, 204d are generally parallel to the plane defined by the inlet and outlet ends 220a, 220b of the filtration media 220, while the segments 204e, 204f extend at an oblique angle relative to the plane defined by the segments 204c, 204d and the inlet and outlet ends 220a, 220b. One advantage of the disclosed design of the filter cartridge 200 is that more interior space is available for accessing and grasping the underside of the handle / flange structure 206 within the housing body 20, as shown by the interior space 20b in FIG. 90 . Air cleaner 10 (Fig. 104-115) 104-115, a sixth example of an air cleaner 10 is presented. The air cleaner 10 is generally similar to the air cleaner 10 shown in FIGS. 82-103. For example, the safety filter cartridge 200 and precleaner assembly 60 incorporate the same general design concepts (albeit with different dimensions). Similarities exist with respect to the air cleaner 10 shown in FIGS. 1-50 and with respect to the air cleaner 10 shown in FIGS. 51-54. Therefore, where such similarities exist, the preceding statements also apply to this example. The air cleaner 10 of FIGS. 104-115 differs from the other examples in several respects. For example, the air cleaner 10 includes a differently configured main filter cartridge 100 design and associated configuration changes to the housing body 20.

[0130] The air cleaner 10 of Figures 104-115 is similar to that shown in Figures 51-54 in that the filter cartridge 100 rests against the peripheral wall 22 of the housing body 20 in a pocket-type configuration. Accordingly, in this example, the opening 127 is configured as a pocket structure 127 defined by a radial flange structure 125 that receives the protrusion 28 on the housing body 20. When the pocket structure 127 contacts the protrusion 28, the peripheral wall is drawn into the desired shape once the filter cartridge 100 is fully installed, thereby ensuring a complete seal between the seal member 130 and the interior sealing surface 22f of the housing body 20. In this example, the housing body 20 is provided with additional protrusions 29 that are received by additional pocket structures or channels defined by the radial flange structure 125. As can be seen most easily in the cross-sectional views of Figures 106 and 107, this configuration positions the seal member 130 opposite the protrusion 28 on the housing body 20 such that the protrusions 28 and the seal member 130 are radially aligned. Therefore, the protrusion 28 can act more directly on the pocket structure 127 and the seal member 130 to ensure a seal between the seal member 130 and the housing body inner seal surface 22f. Other Features and Benefits In some examples of the filter cartridge 100 disclosed herein, the seal member 130 is formed from an injection-molded material (e.g., TPE), as previously described. Compared to other types of seal materials (e.g., polyurethane), injection-molded seals with a sealing lip 132 are less able to compensate for under- and over-compression of the seal 130 relative to the housing. Therefore, injection-molded seal members with a sealing lip are more likely to form leak paths between the housing seal surface 22f and the seal member 130 in over- or under-compressed conditions. As previously discussed, the housing sidewall 22 is relatively flexible along its long sides 22a and therefore more generally tends to flex inward and outward relative to the seal member. Furthermore, manufacturing tolerances for housings with relatively long sides can introduce irregularities that can compromise the seal between the seal member 130 and the seal surface 22f. When both of these conditions exist, the use of injection-molded seal members with a lip seal is particularly susceptible to the formation of undesirable leak paths. However, the interaction between the opening 127 and the protrusion 28, which together form the protrusion-receiving arrangement, provides a solution to these conditions, acting to restrain and stabilize the housing sidewall 22 in a fixed position so that the seal between the seal member 130 and the sealing surface 22f is properly maintained. This seal is further enhanced by the configuration in which the seal member's base member 130a abuts the inner surface of the housing sidewall 22, providing an inward restraint on the housing sidewall 22. With such restraint, the housing sidewall 22 is stabilized in both the inward and outward directions to advantageously maintain the seal between the seal member 130 and the sealing surface 22f. The bumper protrusion 133 can also provide another means for restraining the housing sidewall 22 from excessive inward deflection. In particular, the seal member 130 is axially disposed between the protrusion-receiving arrangement 28 / 127 and the portion of the base member 130a that contacts the housing 22, ensuring that the full restraint effect is directed toward where the seal is formed. The closer the seal member 130 is to the projection-receiver arrangement 28 / 127, the easier it is to maintain an adequate seal.However, it should be understood that the position of the seal member 130 may be independent of the position of the projection-receiver arrangement 28 / 127 in a particular configuration.

[0131] Any of the air filter cartridges 100 disclosed herein can include a seal member 130 located proximate to the opening 127 or remote from the opening 127. For example, the seal member 130 can be located proximate the second end 104 of the filter cartridge, while the opening 127 can be located proximate the first end 102 of the filter cartridge. Conversely, the seal member 130 can be located proximate the first end 102 of the filter cartridge, while the opening 127 can be located proximate the second end 104 of the filter cartridge. Furthermore, either or both of the seal member 130 and the opening 127 can be located at a midpoint or central location of the filter cartridge 100 (e.g., the middle quarter, middle third, etc. of the cartridge between the first and second ends 102, 104). The shell 120 can be located at any point on the filter cartridge 100 that corresponds to the location of the seal member 130.

[0132] As previously mentioned, the filter cartridge 100 may alternatively include protrusions 28 in place of the openings 127, with the openings being provided in the housing body 20. An example of such a configuration is shown in Figures 61 and 62, in which the protrusions 28 extend from the flange 125 in a direction toward the second end 104 of the filter cartridge 100. Furthermore, while the filter cartridge 100 may be provided with both openings 127 and protrusions 28, the housing body 28 may likewise be provided with corresponding openings 127 and protrusions 28. Furthermore, the filter cartridge 100 and the housing body 20 may be provided with any desired number of openings 127 and protrusions 28 along each long side, e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, or more.

[0133] It will be apparent from the foregoing detailed description that modifications and variations can be made to aspects of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit or scope thereof. While the best modes for carrying out many aspects of the present teachings have been described in detail, those skilled in the art to which these teachings pertain will recognize various alternative modes for implementing the present teachings that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly, comprising: a) a media pack extending along a longitudinal axis between opposite inlet and outlet flow ends, the media pack having a length and a width defining a periphery, the length being greater than the width; b) a sealing member extending at least partially around the periphery of the media pack; c) a first member of a projection-receive arrangement for engaging a second member of a projection-receive arrangement disposed on the housing of the air cleaner assembly, the first member being a radial flange structure forming an open channel extending along at least the length of the periphery of the media pack; Including filter cartridge.

2. The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the first member is disposed between the seal member and the inlet flow end of the media pack.

3. 3. The filter cartridge of claim 1 or 2, further comprising: a) a support structure extending around a periphery of the media pack, the first member being supported by the support structure.

4. The filter cartridge of claim 3 , wherein the support structure is a circumferential shell.

5. The filter cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sealing member includes at least one lip seal.

6. The filter cartridge of any preceding claim, wherein the first member is positioned closer to the inlet flow end of the media pack than to the outlet flow end.

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