A processing device for processing fluids, particularly liquid fluids, and a processing unit and connecting head for the processing device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a processing device (10) for a fluid, particularly a liquid fluid, comprising a replaceable processing unit (14) and a connecting head (12), in particular a filter device. The connecting head (12) and the processing unit (14) may be connected together by a bayonet-type connecting device (34) that is releaseable while performing a plug-in / rotational movement, wherein the connecting device (34) comprises at least one housing connecting part (100) and at least one head connecting part (32), each of which comprises at least one respective functional element (44, 104), said functional elements being complementary to each other and operatively connected together. The connecting device (34) has at least one pretensioning element (54) to provide mechanical pretension, thereby allowing the complementary functional elements (44, 104) to be pressurized against each other. According to the present invention, the pretensioning element (54) is a spring element having at least two spring arms (53) that protrude radially outward and have a straight section (55) on the radially outer end surface of the spring arm, said section is aligned tangentially to an edge (57) that extends circularly around a connecting axis (20). The present invention also relates to a connecting head (12) comprising a processing unit (14) and a pretensioning element (54).

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a treatment device, particularly a filter device, for the treatment, particularly of filtration, of a liquid fluid, particularly fuel, oil, or water, having an interchangeable treatment unit, particularly of an internal combustion engine, particularly of a vehicle. The present invention also relates to a treatment unit and a connection head for a treatment device. Background Technology

[0002] WO 2015091665 A1 discloses a filter for filtering a liquid fluid, particularly fuel or oil, of an internal combustion engine, particularly having a filter head comprising a filter port in which a filter element is arranged and an inlet and / or outlet for the fluid. The filter head and the filter port are connected to each other via a detachable bayonet-type plug-in / rotation connection. The plug-in / rotation connection comprises at least two interacting locking components, one connected to the filter port and the other connected to the filter head. The problem to be solved

[0003] The objective of the present invention is to provide a processing device equipped with an interchangeable processing unit that enables simple and space-saving replacement of the processing unit.

[0004] Another objective is to provide a processing unit and a connecting head for such a processing device. means of solving the problem

[0005] The above-mentioned objective is achieved according to an embodiment of the present invention by a processing device for fluids, particularly liquid fluids, in particular a filter device, comprising a housing port, a housing cover, a housing having at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed and at least one outlet for a fluid to be processed, and a connecting head having at least one infeed for a fluid to be processed connectable to at least one inlet and / or at least one drain for a fluid to be processed connectable to at least one outlet, wherein the connecting head and the processing unit may be connected to each other by a separable bayonet-type connecting device that performs plug-in / rotational movement about the connecting axis of the processing device, the connecting device comprising at least one housing connecting part on the housing part and at least one head connecting part on the connecting head part, which are operably connected to each other to form a connection of the connecting device, and the housing connecting part and the head connecting part each comprising at least one mutually complementary functional element operably connected to each other in a circumferential direction about the connecting axis, and the connecting device comprises at least one pretension element for realizing a mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements can be pressurized against each other. The pretension element is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms comprising a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at the radially outer end face.

[0006] Another objective is achieved according to a further embodiment of the present invention by a processing unit for a processing device for connection to a connecting head, comprising a housing port, a housing cover, at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet for a fluid to be processed, wherein the connecting head of the processing device is connectable to the processing unit by a detachable bayonet-type connecting device that performs plug-in / rotational movement about the connecting axis of the processing device, the connecting device comprises a housing connecting part on the housing part, which is configured to connect the connecting device to at least one head connecting part on the connecting head part, at least one inlet is connectable to at least one infeed of the connecting head for a fluid to be processed and / or at least one outlet is connectable to at least one drain of the connecting head for a fluid to be processed, and the housing connecting part and the head connecting part each comprise at least one mutually complementary functional element that is operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the connecting axis, and the connecting device comprises at least one pretension element for realizing mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements can be pressurized against each other. The pretension element is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms comprising a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at the radially outer end face.

[0007] Another objective is achieved according to a further embodiment of the present invention by a connecting head for a processing unit comprising a housing port, a housing cover, at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet for a fluid to be processed, wherein the connecting head of the processing unit is connectable to the processing unit by a detachable bayonet-type connecting device that performs plug-in / rotational movement about the connecting axis of the processing unit, the connecting device comprises at least one housing connecting part on the housing part and at least one head connecting part on the connecting head part configured for connecting the connecting device, at least one infeed of the connecting head is connectable to at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed and / or at least one drain of the connecting head is connectable to at least one outlet for a fluid to be processed, and the housing connecting part and the head connecting part each comprise at least one mutually complementary functional element that is operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction with respect to the connecting axis, and the connecting device comprises at least one pretension element for realizing mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements can be pressurized against each other. The pretension element is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms comprising a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at the radially outer end face.

[0008] Advantageous embodiments and benefits of the present invention derive from the additional claims, description of the invention, and drawings.

[0009] A processing device for fluids, particularly for liquid fluids, and particularly a filter device is proposed, comprising a housing having a housing port, a housing cover, at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet for a processed fluid, and a connecting head having at least one infeed for a fluid to be processed connectable to at least one inlet and / or at least one drain for a processed fluid connectable to at least one outlet. The connecting head and the processing unit may be connected to each other by a detachable bayonet-type connecting device that performs plug-in / rotational movement about the connecting axis of the processing device. The connecting device comprises at least one housing connecting part on the housing portion and at least one head connecting part on the connecting head portion that can be operably connected to each other to form a connection of the connecting device, wherein, in a circumferential direction with respect to the connecting axis, the housing connecting part and the head connecting part each comprise at least one mutually complementary functional element that can be operably connected to each other. In this regard, the connecting device comprises at least one pretensioning element for realizing a mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements can be pressurized against each other.

[0010] According to the present invention, the pretension element comprises a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms, each having a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at the radially outer end face.

[0011] The rim may be the rim of the housing port when the pretension element is placed in the connection head. Alternatively, the rim may be the rim of the connection head when the pretension element is placed in the processing unit.

[0012] Since the use of pretension elements enables mechanical pretension where complementary functional elements can be pressed against each other, the connecting device can be maintained under mechanical pretension. Consequently, vibrations caused by operation can be dampened (mitigated). Additionally, noise caused by operation can be reduced. In particular, potential rattling can be prevented. Furthermore, the possible locking force that must be overcome for opening and closing the locking action can be generated or increased.

[0013] At least one pretension element may advantageously be placed in the connection head. In this way, it can be configured as a lifetime component. It must not be interchangeable with the processing unit. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one pretension element may be arranged in the housing. Thus, it can be interchangeable with the processing unit.

[0014] At least one pretension element may advantageously be elastic. At least one pretension element may be elastic due to its shape and / or material composition. Advantageously, at least one pretension element may include or be made of a plastic material, in particular an elastomer. Advantageously, at least one pretension element may be a spring element, in particular a bent wire portion, or include such a spring element. Advantageously, it may be composed of an elastic metal.

[0015] At least one pretension element may be star-shaped with three or more "spikes" forming a spring arm extending outward from a central region. Advantageously, the spring arm may have a rectangular or trapezoidal cross-section.

[0016] The connecting parts of the connecting device can be appropriately formed from semi-finished products or molded parts, and in particular, can be formed by bending, folding, corrugating, cutting, or stamping, etc. In this way, the corresponding locking section and (counter) guide section can be realized as needed.

[0017] Advantageously, at least one portion of the semi-finished product or molded part may be provided radially inside a first connecting part formed by the semi-finished product or molded part, particularly by bending, folding, corrugating, cutting, or stamping. Advantageously, the portion of the semi-finished product or molded part arranged radially inside the first connecting part is closed circumferentially. In this way, the stability of the connecting device and the resulting rigidity and permanent load capacity of the connection between the connecting parts can be improved.

[0018] The connection portion may advantageously be arranged radially within at least one circumferential (directional) wall of the housing and / or connection head. In this way, the bayonet-type connection device may be protected from the environment. The connection device may advantageously be arranged in a corresponding connection space between the housing and the connection head.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, the pretension element can be secured to the connecting head by the head connecting portion. The attachment of the pretension element does not require additional components and can be realized in a time-saving manner in a single work step along with the installation of the head connecting portion.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, the spring arm can be placed substantially flat on the rim of the housing port. Advantageously, each spring arm can form three contact points with the rim.

[0021] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, the pretension element can be implemented as a bent wire section. This not only enables the inexpensive manufacturing of the pretension element but also advantageously allows for minimum installation space requirements.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, at least one of the mutually complementary functional elements may include an assembly ramp that transitions (merges) into a support area perpendicular to the connecting axis, and the other of the mutually complementary functional elements may include a slide area adjacent to the support area perpendicular to the connecting axis. At the connecting end position of the connecting device, the two support areas may be arranged in layers with respect to the connecting axis. In particular, each support area may be circumferentially adjacent by an end stop, in particular by a locking element of at least one locking safety device, in particular by a locking protrusion or a locking section or recess, which locks from behind, between, or inside each other at the closed position of at least one connecting device.

[0023] The vertical support area enables improved force flow on functional elements on the connection head side and processing unit side, particularly on the complementary bayonet-type ring. Mechanical tension in the component rim is prevented. The support surface of the connection device is enlarged, which can reduce wear during vibration and relative movement between the components of the connection device. Additionally, mounting and dismounting forces can be reduced. Since the support area exhibits reduced "digging in" at the contact surface, wear effects during mounting and dismounting (separation) of the processing unit can be reduced.

[0024] Using a locking safety device can reduce the risk that the connection device may be released due to accidental rotation of the processing unit around the connection axis.

[0025] To close and release at least one locking safety device, the corresponding locking elements may be separated from or moved past each other by the corresponding rotation of the processing unit. To do this, it may be necessary to overcome the corresponding locking force. Due to this increased force expenditure upon attachment, the processing unit can be easily detected when it is in the correct position.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, one or more support areas may be provided on at least one of the functional elements, and the total length in the circumferential direction occupies at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and particularly preferably at least 30% of the corresponding circumference on the same radius of the corresponding housing connection part and / or head connection part. In this way, the force flow of the components of the connection device can be improved, and mechanical tension at the component rim can be further reduced. An enlarged and more uniform support surface of the connection device is created.

[0027] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, an outer annular seal (sealing portion) may be arranged radially inside the housing connection portion. Advantageously, at least one fluid guide area of ​​the processing device may be sealed toward the environment by at least one sealing device. Advantageously, the outer annular seal (sealing portion) protrudes axially past the connection device by up to 5 mm upward or downward. This is advantageous in terms of installation space utilization because the seal area utilizes the axial extension of the connection device.

[0028] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, the processing unit, in particular the housing cover and / or the end disc of a possible filter element, and the connecting head may each include at least one corresponding element, in particular a socket, preferably an attachment socket and / or a connecting socket and / or a seal socket and / or a cylinder socket, which correspond to each other in pairs when the processing unit is mounted. In particular, at least one pair of corresponding elements may be arranged inside at least one other pair of corresponding elements.

[0029] In this way, corresponding elements can be fixed radially relative to each other with respect to the connecting axis. Alternatively, corresponding elements can be arranged in pairs, particularly adjacent to the insert of the seal device. In this manner, radial positional tolerances related to the connecting axis can be easily compensated.

[0030] Since a pair of corresponding elements can be arranged inside at least one other pair of corresponding elements, a first fluid guide region, in particular an outlet channel for fluid, can be realized in the inner pair of corresponding elements.

[0031] Between the inner pair of corresponding elements and the outer pair of corresponding elements, advantageously, a second fluid guide region, in particular an annular inlet space for fluid, can be realized.

[0032] Corresponding elements, particularly pairs of corresponding elements, can each be coaxial with the connecting axis. In this way, they can be positioned more simply (easily) relative to each other. Furthermore, the fluid guide region can be more uniform in the circumferential direction in this manner.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing device, the head connection portion and / or the housing connection portion may be formed of sheet metal or comprise sheet metal. The sheet metal may generally exist in its initial state as rolled metal in the form of a flat sheet or strip. The sheet metal can be easily implemented with a uniform material thickness. Mechanically stable connection portions can be implemented from sheet metal even with a relatively minimal material thickness. In this way, the installation space required for the connection device, particularly in the axial direction, can be reduced. The sheet metal can be worked on and processed in simple ways, particularly such as bending, folding, stamping, cutting, or welding. Connections between components, particularly crimp connections (flange connections) or welded connections, can be easily realized from sheet metal. Advantageously, at least one of the connection portions may be implemented as a formed sheet metal portion.

[0034] Advantageously, the head connection portion and / or housing connection portion can be implemented as a simple bent sheet metal portion rather than a drawn portion. The bent portion requires only a small degree of deformation. Accordingly, the connection device can be formed from a hardened material such that the head connection portion and / or housing connection portion possess improved wear resistance. When forming the head connection portion and / or housing connection portion, protrusions can be largely prevented if the material is merely bent.

[0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, a processing unit for a processing device, particularly a filter device, is proposed, comprising a housing port, a housing cover, a housing having at least one inlet for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet for a processed fluid, particularly according to any one of the preceding claims. The processing unit may be connected to a connecting head of the processing device by a bayonet-type connecting device that is detachable by performing a plug-in / rotational movement about the connecting axis of the processing device. The connecting device comprises at least one housing connecting part on a portion of the housing configured to connect the connecting device to at least one head connecting part on a portion of the connecting head, wherein at least one inlet is connectable to at least one infeed of the connecting head for a fluid to be processed and / or at least one outlet is connectable to at least one drain of the connecting head for a processed fluid. The housing connecting part and the head connecting part each comprise at least one mutually complementary functional element capable of being operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction about the connecting axis, and the connecting device comprises at least one pretensioning element for realizing a mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements can be pressurized against each other. The pretension element is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms, each comprising a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at the radially outer end face.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present invention, a connecting head for such a processing device is proposed, the connecting head comprises a pretension element, which is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms each comprising a straight section oriented tangentially to a rim that extends in a circular shape around a connecting axis at a radially outer end face.

[0037] The advantages and features disclosed in relation to the processing device according to the present invention and its advantageous embodiments are correspondingly applicable to the processing unit according to the present invention and the connecting head according to the present invention and their advantageous embodiments, and vice versa.

[0038] The rim may be the rim of the housing port when the pretension element is placed in the connection head. Alternatively, the rim may be the rim of the connection head when the pretension element is placed in the processing unit.

[0039] By using pretension elements, mechanical pretension can be realized where complementary functional elements are pressed against each other, allowing the connecting device to be maintained under mechanical pretension. Consequently, vibrations caused by operation can be dampened (mitigated). Additionally, noise caused by operation can be reduced. In particular, potential rattling can be prevented. Furthermore, the possible locking force that must be overcome for opening and closing the locking action can be generated or increased.

[0040] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit, the pretension element can be secured to the housing cover of the processing unit by a housing connection part. This enables a compact configuration and attachment of the pretension element without additional components. According to an advantageous embodiment of the connection head, the pretension element can be secured to the connection head correspondingly by a head connection part.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit, the spring arm may be implemented to lie substantially flat on the rim of the connecting head. In particular, three contact points with the rim may be provided at each spring arm. Alternatively, according to an advantageous embodiment of the connecting head, the spring arm may be implemented to lie substantially flat on the rim of the housing port. Advantageously, in both configurations, three contact points with the rim may be provided at each spring arm.

[0042] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit and / or connecting head, the pretension element can be implemented as a bent wire section. This enables not only low-cost manufacturing but also great variability in forming.

[0043] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit, the housing connection portion may include a rotation prevention device. In particular, the housing connection portion may include at least one notch in the rim as a rotation prevention device. Advantageously, the rotation prevention device may interact with the rim of the housing port in the sense of a rotation prevention device.

[0044] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit, at least one housing connection portion may include at least one functional element, and at least one functional element may be operably connected to at least one functional element of the head connection portion, and at least one functional element includes a support area perpendicular to the connection axis. Correspondingly, at least one head connection portion of the connection head may include at least one functional element, and at least one functional element may be operably connected to at least one functional element of the housing connection portion.

[0045] In particular, at least one functional element may include an assembly ramp or slide area that is each converted (merged) into a support area perpendicular to the connection axis. At the connection end position of the connection device, two support areas may be positioned on top of each other (layered) with respect to the connection axis. The vertical support area enables improved force flow in the functional elements on the connection head side and the processing unit side, particularly in the complementary bayonet-type ring. Mechanical tension in the component rim is reduced. The support surface of the connection device is enlarged, which can reduce wear during vibration and relative movement between the components of the connection device. Additionally, mounting and dismounting forces can be reduced. Since the support area exhibits reduced "digging in" at the contact surface, wear effects during mounting and dismounting (separation) of the processing unit can be reduced.

[0046] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit and / or connecting head, one or more support areas may be provided, and the total length of the support area(s) in the circumferential direction occupies at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and particularly preferably at least 30% of the corresponding circumference on the same radius in the corresponding configuration of the housing connecting part and / or the head connecting part or the connecting head. In this way, the force flow of the components of the connecting device can be improved, and the mechanical tension at the component rim can be further reduced. An enlarged and more uniform support surface of the connecting device is created.

[0047] Advantageously, the housing cover can be elastically deformed. Therefore, it can be pressurized against the connecting head or covering ring, particularly during the operation of the processing unit, by excess pressure present in the housing. Consequently, the connecting head can support the housing cover. In this way, the requirements for pressure stability of the housing cover can be reduced. Thus, the housing cover can be realized more simply, especially with simpler materials.

[0048] Advantageously, the treatment unit may be a replaceable filter, in particular a replaceable oil filter or a replaceable fuel filter. The housing of the treatment unit may be a filter housing. Advantageously, at least one filter element may be arranged in the filter housing so that it can separate at least one inlet from at least one outlet. The connecting head may be an advantageously replaceable filter, in particular a filter head to which the filter housing can be detachably mounted by a connecting device.

[0049] A replaceable filter is generally a filter in which at least one filter element is replaced along with the filter housing. Typically, at least one filter element is fixedly arranged within the filter housing. Accordingly, the connection between the housing port and the housing cover must not be detachable in a non-destructive manner.

[0050] The present invention is not limited to processing devices for internal combustion engines of automobiles. Instead, it may be used for other types of internal combustion engines, particularly industrial prime movers. The present invention may also be used in other types of fluid processing devices, either within or outside of automotive technology. The present invention may also be used for air / oil separation boxes or desiccant boxes. Effects of the invention

[0051] The present invention provides a processing device equipped with an interchangeable processing unit that enables simple and space-saving replacement of the processing unit, and also has the effect of providing a processing unit and a connecting head for such a processing device. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0052] Additional advantages arise from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention. The drawings, the description of the invention, and the claims together comprise numerous features. Those skilled in the art will also consider features individually to their advantage and combine them into advantageous and meaningful additional combinations. FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a filter device for engine oil (automobile oil) of an internal combustion engine of an automobile, having a processing device according to one embodiment of the present invention, in particular a processing unit and a connecting head; FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a processing unit according to FIG. 1 having a top view of a housing connection portion; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a processing device according to FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a detailed view of a processing device according to FIG. 1 with the housing cut open; FIG. 5 is a detailed view of the processing device according to FIG. 1 in the area of ​​the connecting head - processing unit as a longitudinal section; FIG. 6 is an isometric view of a connection head of a processing device according to FIG. 1, having an illustration of a head connection portion inside the connection head; FIG. 7 illustrates a connection head according to FIG. 6 having an exposed pretension element without a head connection part; FIG. 8 is an isometric view of the head connection part according to FIG. 6; FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the housing connection portion according to FIG. 2; FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a modified example of a housing connection part according to FIG. 9; FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of a modified example of a housing connection portion according to FIG. 10 connected to a covering ring of a housing cover; FIG. 12 is a plan view of a pretension element according to FIG. 6; FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a connection head for a processing device according to FIG. 1 without a splash guard having a recognizable pretension element; FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a splash guard for a head connection part according to FIG. 6 seen from the outside; FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the splash guard for the head connection part according to FIG. 6, viewed from the inside; FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a modified example of a splash guard for a head connection part according to FIG. 6, viewed from the outside; FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a modified example of a splash guard for a head connection part according to FIG. 6, viewed from the inside; FIG. 18 is an isometric projection of a connection head of a processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a processing unit of a processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention having a top view of a housing connection portion for a connecting head according to FIG. 18; FIG. 20 is a plan view of a head connection portion for a connection head according to FIG. 18; FIG. 21 is a plan view of the housing connection part according to FIG. 18. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0053] In drawings, identical or similar components are identified by the same reference numeral.

[0054] In FIGS. 1 to 17, a first embodiment of a processing device (10) in the form of a filter device for a liquid fluid, for example, engine oil (automotive oil) of an internal combustion engine of an automobile, and its components is illustrated in various perspective views, cross-sectional views, and detailed views. The processing device (10) serves to purify, for example, engine oil (automotive oil).

[0055] FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a processing device (10) having a processing unit (14) and a connecting head (12). FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of the processing unit (14) along with a top view of the housing connecting portion (100). FIG. 3 illustrates a longitudinal section view of the processing device (10). FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed view of the processing device (10) with the housing (56) cut open. FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed longitudinal section view of the processing device (10) in the area of ​​the connecting head (12) and the housing (56).

[0056] According to an advantageous embodiment of the processing unit (14), the housing connection part (100) can be fixedly connected to the stable covering ring (61) of the housing cover (60) at the outer rim, particularly by material fusion, and can be welded. Advantageously, laser welding or projection welding may be used. Optionally, the connection may also be formed by soldering. Advantageously, due to the fixed area connection (rigid planar connection), the risk of failure of the housing connection part (100) due to loads acting over its service life, for example by vibration loads, may be reduced. Advantageously, to achieve greater tensile strength of the housing connection part (100), the shape of the housing cover (60) may also be matched to the shape of the covering ring (61).

[0057] The processing unit (10) includes a connecting head (12) in the form of a filter head to which a replaceable filter as a processing unit (14) is detachably fixed. The connecting head (12) is fixedly connected to an internal combustion engine and serves as a connecting part for the processing unit (14). Two embodiments of the connecting head (12) are illustrated in detail in FIGS. 6 and FIGS. 13. The connecting head (12) includes an infeed (16) and a drain (18) for engine oil (automotive oil). The infeed (16) and the drain (18) are connected to corresponding oil conduits of the internal combustion engine, which are not described in detail herein.

[0058] The connecting head (12) also includes an attachment socket (connecting piece) (22) that is coaxial with respect to the connecting axis (20) and radially inward.

[0059] Where "axial," "radial," "coaxial," "circumferential," etc. are mentioned below, they relate to the connecting axis (20) unless otherwise indicated. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting axis (20) coincides with the filter axis of the processing unit (14).

[0060] The inner attachment socket (22) is approximately cylindrical. It extends from the side of the connecting head (12) toward the processing unit (14). It is open at both ends. On the side facing away from the processing unit (14), the inner attachment socket (22) is connected to the drain (18) to communicate fluidly.

[0061] The inner attachment socket (22) is coaxially surrounded by a circular cylindrical radial outer attachment socket (24). The inner attachment socket (22) protrudes axially past the outer connection socket (24) on the side facing the processing unit (14).

[0062] The inner attachment socket (22) and the outer attachment socket (24) each define a coaxial annular inlet space (26) in the circumferential direction. The annular inlet space (26) is connected to the infeed (16) by a fluid connection.

[0063] The inner attachment socket (22) and the outer attachment socket (24) are coaxially surrounded by a circular cylindrical wall (perimeter wall) (28). The free rim of the wall (28) facing the processing unit (14) is located at approximately the same axial level as the free rim of the outer attachment socket (24). The attachment socket (24) protrudes slightly past the wall (28) toward the processing unit (14).

[0064] FIG. 6 illustrates an isometric view of a connecting head (12) of a processing device (10) according to FIG. 1, having a head connecting portion (32) inside the connecting head (12). FIG. 7 illustrates a connecting head (12) having an exposed pretension element (54) without a head connecting portion (32). FIG. 8 illustrates an isometric view of the head connecting portion (32) according to FIG. 6. FIG. 9 illustrates an isometric view of a housing connecting portion (100) complementary thereto, and a modified example is illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0065] In the embodiment of the connection head (12) according to FIG. 6, the circumferential wall (perimeter wall) (28) forms the radial outer boundary of the axial outer portion of the connection head (12) on the side facing away from the processing unit (14). The splash guard portion (150) is positioned to be partially covered by the circumferential wall (28). The splash guard portion (150) is made of, for example, a vulcanized elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE). The splash guard portion (150) and the outer attachment socket (24) each define the annular coaxial connection space (30) in the circumferential direction. FIG. 13 shows a connection head (12) of the same configuration without a splash guard portion.

[0066] In the connection space (30), a head connection portion (32) of a detachable bayonet-type connection device (34) is disposed. By means of the connection device (34), the processing unit (14) is detachably fixed to the connection head (12). To this end, a complementary housing connection portion (100) is arranged on the processing unit (14).

[0067] The head connection portion (32), which is generally roughly annular, is preferably formed of sheet metal. The thickness of the sheet metal is constant at about 2 to 3 mm.

[0068] Radially inward, the head connection portion (32) includes an annular head assembly section (36). The head assembly section (36) contacts the radial inner side with respect to the radial outer side of the outer attachment socket (24). The head assembly section (36) extends radially and circumferentially in approximately one plane. The head connection portion (32) extends radially to the approximate center of the connection space (30).

[0069] In this example, the head assembly section (36) is converted (merged) into three head-side functional elements (44) in the form of a bayonet section, as can be seen in the detail view of FIG. 8. Instead of three functional elements (44), four or five may also be provided.

[0070] Advantageously, the head connection part (32) and / or the housing connection part (100) may be implemented as a simple bent sheet metal part rather than a drawn part. The bent part requires only a slight degree of deformation. The connection device (34) may be formed of a harder material so that the head connection part (32) and / or the housing connection part (100) have improved wear resistance. When forming the head connection part (32) and / or the housing connection part (100), the protrusions can be largely prevented if the material is only bent.

[0071] In the unformed state, the head assembly section (36) of the head connection part (32) is not circular in cross-sectional shape as in FIG. 8, for example, but is curved slightly outward in the radial direction. In particular, the head assembly section (36) may have a diameter that is slightly different, particularly larger, than the circumferential section (40). Generally, the difference in diameter may be approximately 1 mm. When the sheet metal is bent, the material shrinks only in the head assembly section (36) so that the head assembly section (36) is pulled radially inward. In contrast, the support area of ​​the functional element (44) remains substantially unaffected.

[0072] The housing connection portion (100) has only a slight (minimal) curvature so that the housing connection portion (100) includes an axial extension of only a few millimeters, for example, up to 6 mm, preferably up to 4 mm, particularly preferably up to 3 mm.

[0073] The head assembly section (36) has a radially smaller (reduced) width compared to the head-side bayonet section in the form of a functional element (44). The head-side functional element (44) has the same shape and size. The head-side functional elements (44) are arranged and distributed uniformly in the circumferential direction. Each head-side functional element (44) includes a circumferential section (40) that extends substantially parallel to the wall of a virtual circular cylinder around the connecting axis (20) in the circumferential direction. The circumferential section (40) includes a flat support area (45) arranged perpendicular to the connecting axis (20). Each functional element (44) includes an assembly ramp (43) that extends obliquely in the axial direction and transitions (merges) into the flat support area (45) ending at the locking element (46) as an adjacent end stop (47) by a recess for the adjacent head assembly section (36).

[0074] Accordingly, the circumferential section (40) connects the head assembly section (36) to each assembly lamp (43). The assembly lamp (43) can be easily seen, particularly in FIG. 8.

[0075] Each flat support area (45) includes a circumferential extension (49). The flat support area (45) of all functional elements (44) of the head connection part (32) occupies at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and particularly preferably at least 30% of the circumferential length at the same radius of the head connection part (32).

[0076] Each assembly ramp (43) has a course that is roughly screw-shaped around the connecting axis (20). The inclination of the assembly ramp (43) extending at an angle corresponds roughly to the inclination of a conventional right-hand screw. When viewed axially from the processing unit (14), the clockwise forward free end of the assembly ramp (43) is closer to the processing unit (14) than the clockwise rear end. Between the forward end of the assembly ramp (43) and the plane of the head assembly section (36), there is a gap in which a complementary housing-side functional element (104) corresponding in the form of a bayonet section can be inserted, which will be described in more detail below.

[0077] The sheet metal of the head connection part (32) has the same thickness in the head assembly section (36), the circumference section (40), and the assembly ramp (43). This also means that it has a uniform axial range (extension) in the head assembly section (36) and the assembly ramp (43).

[0078] Each functional element (44) includes a head-side locking protrusion (46). The locking protrusion (46) is implemented as a bend in each functional element (44). The locking protrusion (46) protrudes axially from the side facing the processing unit (14).

[0079] The processing unit (14) is detachably fixed to the connecting head (12) by a connecting device (34). To this end, a complementary housing connecting part (100) including a complementary functional element (104) is arranged on the processing unit (14). FIG. 9 shows an isometric view of the housing connecting part (100) according to FIG. 2 through 5 interacting with the head connecting part (32). FIG. 10 shows a modified example of the housing connecting part (100).

[0080] The housing connection portion (100) of the connection device (34) is preferably formed from sheet metal as an annular coaxial element. The thickness of the sheet metal of the housing connection portion (100) corresponds approximately to the thickness of the sheet metal of the head connection portion (32).

[0081] The housing connection portion (100) extends radially from the radial outer side of the stable covering ring (61) (Figs. 4, 5) placed on the housing cover (60) through the radial center of the connection space (30). The housing connection portion (100) overlaps with the head connection portion (32). The covering ring (61) absorbs the internal pressure of the processing unit (14).

[0082] The housing connection portion (100) includes a housing assembly section (102) that extends radially and circumferentially in approximately one plane. The housing assembly section (102) is fixed axially and radially outwardly between the housing cover (60) and the crimp connection portion as the rim (57) of the housing port (58) for the housing cover (60). It lies on a flat side relative to the covering ring (61) of the housing cover (60). The assembly section (102) may be connected to the covering ring (61) at the rim by material fusion, for example, by welding.

[0083] The housing assembly section (102) is converted (merged) into three identical housing-side functional elements (104) in the form of a bayonet section on its radial inner side. The housing-side functional elements (104) are arranged and distributed uniformly in the circumferential direction. They have the shape and size of the head-side functional elements (44) that are approximately complementary thereto. Instead of three functional elements (104), four or five may also be provided.

[0084] The housing-side functional element (104) acts complementarily to the functional element (44) and includes a slide area (142) at the circumferential end of the support area (105), a flat support area (105), a locking element (106) at the circumferential end located opposite the support area (105), and a small, slightly inwardly protruding pin-shaped end stop (107). The end stop (107) is adjacent to the edge (37) of the threaded element (39) (Fig. 7) in the connecting head (12) to prevent excessive rotation during assembly. When forming a connection between the head connecting part (32) and the housing connecting part (100), the slide area (142) slides on the assembly ramp (43) of the housing-side head connecting part (32). The locking element (106) enables the housing connecting part (100) to be locked at the locking element (46) of the head connecting part (32).

[0085] Each flat support area (105) includes a contact surface (108) arranged on the side of the support area (105) not visible in FIG. 9 and seated on the straight support area (45) of the functional element (44) when a connection with the head connection portion (32) is made. Each flat support area (105) includes a circumferential extension (109). The flat support area (105) of all functional elements (104) occupies the entire circumferential length of at least 20%, preferably at least 23%, and particularly preferably at least 30% of the corresponding circumference at the same radius of the housing connection portion (100).

[0086] The contact surface (108) of the straight support area (105) is located on the side of each housing-side functional element (104) facing the covering ring (61) of the housing cover (60). In the closed state of the connecting device (34), the contact surface (108) is engaged from behind for interaction by one of the head-side functional elements (44). In this regard, the contact surface (108) of the straight support area (105) is positioned flat against the corresponding flat area (45) of the functional element (44).

[0087] The housing connection portion (100) includes a notch (115) on its outer circumference that provides anti-rotation protection when mounted. In the embodiment according to FIG. 9, the notch (115) is arranged on both sides of the functional element (104). In the embodiment according to FIG. 10, the notch (115) is rotated by approximately 30° and is arranged approximately in the center of the straight section (105) and the housing assembly section (102), respectively.

[0088] Due to the crimp connection (flange connection) between the housing cover (60) and the housing port (58), the crimp pulls the housing cover (60) into the notch (115), thereby providing strong anti-rotation safety.

[0089] Each housing-side functional element (104) includes a housing-side locking protrusion (106). The locking protrusion (106) protrudes axially from the cover ring (61) of the housing cover (60). When the processing unit (14) is mounted, the housing-side locking protrusion (106) is locked behind the corresponding head-side locking protrusion (46).

[0090] For attachment, the processing unit (14) is pressed (plugged) coaxially toward the attachment side of the connection head (12) with the housing cover (60) or the cover ring (61) of the housing cover (60) facing forward.

[0091] FIG. 11 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a modified example of the housing connection part (100) according to FIG. 10, which is fixedly connected to the covering ring (61) of the housing cover (60) at the outer rim (63), for example, by welding. Advantageously, laser welding or projection welding may be used. Optionally, the connection may be created by soldering. Advantageously, due to the fixed area connection (rigid planar connection), the risk of failure of the housing connection part (100) due to loads acting over its service life, for example by vibration loads, may be reduced. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, the outer rim (63) of the covering ring (61) extends upward to form a connection with the housing connection part (100). Radially inward from the outer rim (63), the covering ring (61) has a recess where its inner rim also extends upward. In this way, great rigidity of the covering ring (61) can be achieved. The housing connection part (100) and the cover ring (61) are located in the outer region. The outer rim (63) is the region where the parts are melted to connect the parts. Even in the case of a non-welded embodiment, the inner rim of the recess also extends upward.

[0092] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the head connection portion (32) is secured to the connecting head (12) in the head assembly section (36) by a total of three screws (52) from the side facing the processing unit (14). Each screw (52) is positioned centrally in the circumferential section (40) and is screwed into the threaded element (39) (Fig. 7).

[0093] Additionally, a pretension element (54) is placed coaxially in the connection space (30). The pretension element (54) can be seen in detail in FIG. 12. FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show the location installed in the head connection part (32). In the connection head (12), the pretension element (54) is placed with a slight gap in the groove and is secured by the head connection part (32) which is secured with a screw. In this way, the open spring end of the pretension element (54) is also secured.

[0094] The pretension element (54) is implemented as a bent wire component and is seated in 2 to 5 areas on the connecting head (12) or on the car or vehicle side and in 2 to 5 areas on the rim (57) of the housing port (58) of the processing unit (14). The rim (57) of the housing port (58) may be implemented, for example, as a crimp (flange). The support area of ​​the pretension element (54) on the rim (57) of the processing unit (14) has a straight area (55) implemented tangentially to the rim of the housing port (58). The contour of the outwardly oriented spring arm (53) corresponds to a roughly rectangular or trapezoidal shape. In this way, three contact points are provided for each contact area of ​​the spring arm (53): two contact points across the rim (57) of each spring arm (53) and one contact point at the center of the straight area (55). The pretension element (54) is shaped so that the spring arm (53) lies as flat as possible on the rim (57) of the housing port (58), for example, the crimp.

[0095] The pretension element (54) has at least two, in this embodiment, three spring arms (53). The spring arms (53) are evenly distributed along the circumference. The spring arms (53) extend along the connecting axis (20) in the same rotational direction as the assembly ramp (43) of the head connecting part (32). The spring arms can be bent axially in a spring-like manner (flexible).

[0096] During operation, slight relative movement between the pretension element (54) and the rim (57) occurs due to vibration. The straight area (55) enables more uniform contact and thus allows for more uniform wear as well as reduced digging of the pretension element (54). Reduced separation moment is also achievable. Furthermore, scaling to different diameters of the processing unit (14) that generate different vibration loads due to different masses can be achieved.

[0097] According to the embodiment of the connecting head (12) of FIGS. 1 to 17, the circumferential wall (28) surrounds the upper part of the annular splash guard portion (150). The splash guard portion (150) is illustrated in detail in FIGS. 14 and FIG. 15 in two different drawings. FIGS. 16 and FIGS. 17 illustrate variations of the splash guard portion (150) in the same drawings.

[0098] The splash guard portion (150) serves to protect the functional elements (44, 104) from splashing water and dust. The splash guard portion (150) is formed of a vulcanized elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and is preferably sealed radially with respect to the connecting head (12), and preferably axially with respect to the rim (57) of the processing unit (14). In the support area of ​​the spring arm (53) of the pretension element (54), a small cutout (recess) (156) in the form of a groove is provided. With respect to the connecting head (12), the splash guard portion (150) is preferably held and clamped by the head connecting portion (32). Alternatively, the splash guard portion (150) may also be coupled to the connecting head (12).

[0099] In the connecting head (12), a cylindrical shoulder (29) is provided circumferentially, which includes an oversize relative to the counter-contour with respect to the seal area (164) in the splash guard portion (150), so that the splash guard portion (150) is seated thereon with pretension for an improved sealing action. The seal area (164) is preferably sealed radially with respect to the shoulder (29). Alternatively, in an embodiment not illustrated, the seal area (164) may be designed to be sealed axially.

[0100] The splash guard portion (150) protrudes outwardly circumferentially through the rim (57) together with the lip (160). An additional lip (162) is provided within the rim (57) to serve a role during mounting for centering. The lip (160, 162) preferably forms a seal area (166) that seals axially against the rim (57). The seal area (164) has a smaller diameter than the seal area (166). The lip (160, 162) extends axially for approximately the same length, wherein the inner lip (162) extends slightly further axially than the outer lip.

[0101] Additionally, the splash guard portion (150) may be supported by a circumferential wall (perimeter wall) (28) at the connecting head (12), which additionally shields against splash water and protects the splash guard portion (150) from mechanical damage.

[0102] The splash guard portion (150) has an umbrella-shaped form. In this regard, it seals a small diameter for the connecting head (12) and a large diameter for the rim (57). In the area where the spring arm (53) of the pretension element (54) protrudes toward the rim (57), the splash guard portion (150) includes a protrusion (bulge) portion (152) that covers each spring arm (53). In this regard, in the closed state of the connecting device (34), the outer straight section (55) of the spring arm (53) of the pretension element (54) is received in the groove between the lips (160, 162) of the splash guard portion (150). Between the seal regions (164 and 166), the splash guard portion (150) includes a membrane-type flexible region (159) that may be composed of a relatively thin material thinner than the material of the seal regions (164, 166). The improved flexibility and deformability in this region (159) facilitates the mounting of the processing unit (14) because reduced deformation force and reduced friction moment are applied during mounting to the filter head.

[0103] The area (164) between the seal for the connecting head (12) and the area (166) of the support for the rim (57) is preferably curved outward with a reduced wall thickness for excellent deformability, as in the case of a membrane. The splash guard portion (150) is pushed upward by about 1-4 mm when mounting the processing unit (14). In the inner area, ribs (154, 158) that further clamp the splash guard portion (150) may be provided. The ribs (154, 158) are interrupted at the location where the threaded element (39) is arranged.

[0104] In the embodiment of the splash guard (150) of FIGS. 16 and 17, it can be seen that the outer lip (160) extends significantly further axially than the inner lip (162) arranged on the rim (57) ( FIG. 5) of the housing port (58). Because the outer lip (160) protrudes significantly axially past the rim (57) when mounted, splash water colliding laterally can be better shielded.

[0105] The processing unit (14) is designed as a spin-on filter having a circular cross-section. It is substantially coaxial with the connecting axis (20). The processing unit (14) comprises a housing (56) having a housing port (58) having a housing cover (60) fixed to the radially outer rim on the open side of the housing port by a crimp (flange) connection. A stable covering ring (61) is arranged on the housing cover (60) toward the connecting head (12). In the housing cover (60) area, the radial outer diameter of the housing (56) is smaller than the radial inner diameter of the splash guard portion (150) of the connecting head (12). The housing port (58) has a housing bottom (62) that is curved outward. The housing cover (60) and the housing port (58) are made of metal. Optionally, the housing cover (60) may be welded to the housing port (58).

[0106] A coaxial filter element (64) is arranged in a housing port (58) (Figs. 3–5). The filter element (64) comprises a filter medium that is folded to form a filter bellows (66) and is circumferentially closed. At its end, the filter bellows (66) is sealedly connected to an attachment end disk (68) at the top of Fig. 3 and an opposite end disk (70) at the bottom. The attachment end disk (68) is located on the side of the filter element (64) facing the housing cover (60).

[0107] The filter bellows (66) surrounds the element interior (72) of the filter element (64). The element interior (72) is positioned on the purification side of the filter element (64).

[0108] The opposite end disk (70) closes the interior of the element (72) at the end face of the filter element (64) facing the housing bottom (62). On the outer side of the opposite end disk (70) facing the housing bottom (62), a plurality of spring elements (74) are supported, and these are supported on the other side of the housing bottom (62).

[0109] A spring-loaded bypass valve (not shown) may be positioned at the opposite end disc (70) and, in the open state, under conditions of no further interest thereto, enables the oil flow of engine oil (automotive oil) directly from the bottom of the housing (62) into the element (72) by bypassing the filter medium.

[0110] The filter element (64) is surrounded radially outward by an annular space (78) that is bounded by the radially inner side of the housing port (58).

[0111] Additionally, within the element (72), a coaxial center tube (not shown) may extend between the opposite end disk (70) and the attached end disk (68). The circumferential wall of the center tube may be permeable to engine oil (automotive oil). The radial inner side of the filter bellows (66), i.e., the radial inner fold edge (edge), may be supported on the radial outer side of the center tube.

[0112] The attached end disc (68) includes a coaxial outlet opening (82) for filtered engine oil (automotive oil). On the radial inner side, the attached end disc (68) is formed as a coaxial cylinder socket (83) extending axially from the inside of the element (72).

[0113] An annular coaxial inner seal unit (84) is attached to the side of the cylinder socket (83) facing away from the interior of the element (72) in the axial direction. The inner seal unit (84) is made of an elastomer.

[0114] Radially outward, the inner seal unit (84) includes a return flow blocking membrane (86). The return flow blocking membrane (86) is annular and surrounds the cylinder socket (83) radially outward. The return flow blocking membrane (86) is placed under mechanical pretension against the inner side of the housing cover (60) facing the filter bellows (66). It closes the coaxial annular inlet opening (88) of the housing cover (60) for engine oil (automotive oil) in a no-pressure state as shown in FIG. 3. As soon as engine oil (automotive oil) is supplied to the processing unit (10), the return flow blocking membrane (86) opens in the flow direction (forward) due to the oil pressure. The return flow of engine oil through the inlet opening (88) is prevented by the return flow blocking membrane (86).

[0115] The radial inner annular section of the inner seal unit (84) forms a coaxial inner annular seal (90). The inner annular seal (90) is placed radially outerly on the radially inner side of the cylinder socket (83) so as to be sealed tightly. When the processing unit (14) is mounted, the inner annular seal (90) is placed radially innerly on the radially outer side of the radially inner attachment socket (22), which is designed as a seal (sealing part) surface. By the inner annular seal (90), the filter side of the processing unit (14) is separated from the unfiltered side in the area of ​​the inlet opening (88).

[0116] The housing cover (60) includes a stepped coaxial outer seal socket (92) in the area of ​​the inlet opening (88). The contraction of the outer seal socket (92) at the end facing away from the filter bellows (66) in the axial direction forms an outer seal groove (94) for an outer annular seal (96). The outer annular seal (96) is composed of an O-ring.

[0117] The radial outer diameter of the outer seal socket (92) outside the seal groove (94) area corresponds approximately to the radial inner diameter of the outer attachment socket (24) of the connecting head (12). When the processing unit (14) is mounted, the seal socket (92) is seated on the outer attachment socket (24). The radial outer circumference of the outer seal socket (92) is seated on the radial inner circumference of the radial outer attachment socket (24).

[0118] The outer seal groove (94) is covered by a covering ring (98) on the side facing away from the filter bellows (66) in the axial direction. The covering ring (98) is connected to the outer seal socket (92) by a clamping tab.

[0119] When the processing unit (14) is mounted, the outer annular seal (96) is seated tightly sealingly against the radial inner circumference of the radial outer attachment socket (24) designed as a sealing surface. Thus, the outer annular seal (96) separates the oil guide area of ​​the processing device (10) from the connection space (30) and the environment. For example, the annular seal (96) is positioned at the same level (height) as the bayonet ring, that is, the head connection portion (32) and the housing connection portion (100) of the connection device (34).

[0120] At the latest, when the covering ring (98) reaches the end surface of the radially outer attachment socket (24) of the connecting head (12) and / or the housing connecting part (100) at the head connecting part (32), the processing unit (14) is further rotated around the connecting axis (20) in a clockwise rotational direction, which is the closing rotational direction of the connecting device (34).

[0121] As soon as the free end of the housing-side functional element (104) is positioned in the area of ​​the corresponding head-side insertion gap (50), guidance of the respective housing-side slide area (142) begins at each assembly ramp (43) of the functional element (44). The spring arm (53) of the pretension element (54) is supported at the free end along the straight section (55) at the rim (57) of the housing port (58) in the axial direction. Due to the pulling action achieved by the gradient of the assembly ramp (43) and the slide area (142) in the axial direction between the functional elements (44 and 104), the inner annular seal (90) is pulled onto the radially inner attachment socket (22) and the outer annular seal (96) is pulled into the radially outer attachment socket (24).

[0122] As soon as the housing-side locking protrusion (106) contacts the corresponding head-side locking protrusion (46), the corresponding locking force must be overcome for further rotation. The locking force is further realized by the restoring force of the spring arm of the leaf spring (54).

[0123] After overcoming the locking force, the housing-side locking protrusion (116) locks behind the housing-side locking protrusion (46), thereby securing the connecting device (34) against accidental opening.

[0124] To separate the processing unit (14) from the connecting head (12), the processing unit (14) is rotated counterclockwise, that is, in the open rotation direction, around the connecting axis (20). To do this, the locking force of the head-side locking protrusion (46) and the housing-side locking protrusion (106) must first be overcome.

[0125] Under spring pretension of the pretension element (54), the inner support area (105) is guided along the corresponding support area (45) of the head-side functional element (44). Additionally, the outer housing-side support area (105) is guided along each guide pin. By doing so, an axial pushing force on the outer housing-side support area (105) is generated by the guide pins acting against the respective supporting forces of the inner annular seal (90) and the outer annular seal (96). The supporting force is realized by friction between the inner annular seal (90) and the inner attachment socket (22), and between the outer annular seal (96) and the outer attachment socket (24). By the pushing force, the inner annular seal (90) is pulled (removed) from the inner attachment socket (22) and the outer annular seal (96) is removed from the outer attachment socket (24) in the axial direction.

[0126] As soon as the housing-side functional element (104) leaves the corresponding head-side insertion gap (50) after additional rotational movement, the processing unit (14) is pulled (removed) from the connecting head (12) by axial movement.

[0127] In the operation of the processing unit (10), that is, the operation of the internal combustion engine, the engine oil (automotive oil) to be purified flows into the annular inlet space (26) through the infeed (16) indicated by the arrow (112). From here, the engine oil flows into the unfiltered annular space (78) of the filter housing (56) through the inlet opening (88) released by the return flow blocking membrane (86). The engine oil to be purified flows radially from the outside to the inside through the filter bellows (66) and reaches the inside of the element (72) through the openings of the central tube (88). Inside the element (72), the purified engine oil flows to the drain (18) through the outlet (82) and the radially inner attachment socket (22) of the connecting head (12). The purified engine oil leaves the connecting head (12) and thus the processing unit (10) through the drain (18).

[0128] FIGS. 18 to 21 illustrate a second embodiment of a processing device (10) in the form of a filter device. Elements similar to those of the first embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 17 are provided with the same reference numerals. FIG. 18 illustrates an isometric view of a connection head (12) of the processing device (10), FIG. 19 illustrates an isometric view of a processing unit (14) of the processing device (10), along with a top view of a housing connection part (100) for the connection head (12) according to FIG. 18. FIG. 20 illustrates an isometric view of a head connection part (32) for the connection head (12), FIG. 21 illustrates an isometric view of a housing connection part (100).

[0129] In this embodiment, the function of the functional elements (44, 104) is switched. The housing connection section (100) includes functional elements (104) having assembly ramps (103) that are each switched (merged) into straight support surfaces (105) that extend perpendicularly to the connection axis (20).

[0130] The head connection portion (32) includes three functional elements having respective slide areas (42) (Fig. 20) that are converted (merged) into a corresponding support surface (45). Optionally, the functional element (44) may be implemented by being open outwardly or open inwardly in the head connection portion (32) as shown in Fig. 20 (not shown).

[0131] The number of functional elements (44, 104) can also optionally be 4 or 5.

Claims

Claim 1 A fluid processing device (10) having a housing (56) comprising a housing port (58), a housing cover (60), at least one inlet (88) for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet (82) for a processed fluid, and a connecting head (12) comprising at least one infeed (16) for a fluid to be processed connectable to at least one inlet (88) and / or at least one drain (18) for a processed fluid connectable to at least one outlet (82), wherein the connecting head (12) and the processing unit (14) can be connected to each other by a separable bayonet-type connecting device (34) by performing plug-in / rotational movement about a connecting axis (20) of the processing device (10), and the connecting device (34) comprises at least one housing connecting part (100) on a portion of the housing (56) and at least one head connecting part (32) on a portion of the connecting head (12) to form a connection of the connecting device (34). A processing device (10) wherein the housing connecting part (100) and the head connecting part (32) each include at least one mutually complementary functional element (44, 104) that can be operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction around a connecting axis (20), and the connecting device (34) includes at least one pretension element (54) for realizing mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements (44, 104) can be pressed against each other, wherein the pretension element (54) is a spring element having at least two radially outward protruding spring arms (53) each having a straight section (55) oriented tangentially to a rim (57) that extends in a circular shape around the connecting axis (20) at a radially outer end surface. Claim 2 A processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the pretension element (54) is fixed to the connecting head (12) by the head connecting part (32). Claim 3 A processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the spring arm (53) disposed in the connecting head (12) lies substantially flat on the rim (57) of the housing port (58), or the spring arm (53) disposed in the processing unit (14) lies substantially flat on the rim of the connecting head (12). Claim 4 A processing device according to claim 3, characterized in that each spring arm (53) forms three contact points with the rim (57), or each spring arm (53) forms three contact points with the rim of the connecting head (12). Claim 5 A processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting head (12) includes a protrusion (152) for a spring arm (53). Claim 6 A processing device characterized in that, in claim 1, the pretension element (54) is implemented as a bent wire portion. Claim 7 A processing device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the mutually complementary functional elements (44, 104) includes an assembly ramp (43, 103) that transitions into a support area (45, 105) perpendicular to the connecting axis (20), and the other of the mutually complementary functional elements (104, 44) includes a slide area (142, 42) adjacent to the support area (105, 45) perpendicular to the connecting axis (20), and at the connecting end position of the connecting device (34), the two support areas (45, 105) are arranged in layers with respect to the connecting axis (20). Claim 8 A processing device according to claim 6, wherein one or more support areas (45, 105) are provided on at least one of the functional elements (44, 104), and the total length in the circumferential direction occupies at least 20% of the corresponding circumference on the same radius of the corresponding housing connection part (100) and / or head connection part (32). Claim 9 A processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer annular seal (96) is arranged radially inside the housing connection part (100). Claim 10 A processing device according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit (14) and the connecting head (12) each include at least one corresponding element, and these correspond to each other in pairs when the processing unit (14) is mounted. Claim 11 A processing device according to claim 10, characterized in that the corresponding element is implemented as an attachment socket (22, 24) and / or a connection socket and / or a seal socket (92) and / or a cylinder socket (83). Claim 12 A processing device according to claim 10, characterized in that at least one pair of corresponding elements (22, 83) are disposed inside at least one other pair of corresponding elements (24, 92). Claim 13 A processing device according to claim 1, wherein the head connection portion (32) and / or housing connection portion (100) is composed of sheet metal or includes sheet metal. Claim 14 A processing unit (14) for a processing device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, comprising a housing (56) having a housing port (58), a housing cover (60), at least one inlet (88) for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet (82) for a processed fluid, wherein the processing unit (14) is connectable to a connecting head (12) of the processing device (10) by a bayonet-type connecting device (34) that is detachable by performing a plug-in / rotational movement about a connecting axis (20) of the processing device (10), the connecting device (34) comprises at least one housing connecting part (100) on a portion of the housing (56), which is configured to connect the connecting device (34) to at least one head connecting part (32) on a portion of the connecting head (12), and at least one inlet (88) is connectable to at least one infeed (16) of the connecting head (12) for a fluid to be processed and / or at least one outlet (82) for a fluid to be processed A processing unit (14) capable of being connected to at least one drain (18) of a connecting head (12), wherein the housing connecting portion (100) and the head connecting portion (32) each include at least one mutually complementary functional element (44, 104) capable of being operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction around a connecting axis (20), and the connecting device (34) includes at least one pretension element (54) for realizing mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements (44, 104) can be pressed against each other, wherein the pretension element (54) is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms (53) each having a straight section (55) oriented tangentially to a rim (57) extending in a circular shape around the connecting axis (20) at a radially outer end surface, and the pretension element (54) is fixed by the housing connecting portion (100) in the housing cover (60) of the processing unit (14). A processing unit characterized by Claim 15 A processing unit according to claim 14, characterized in that the spring arm (53) is configured to rest substantially flat on the rim of the connecting head (12). Claim 16 A processing unit according to claim 15, characterized in that three contact points with the rim are provided on each spring arm (53). Claim 17 In claim 14, the processing unit is characterized in that the pretension element (54) is implemented as a bent wire portion. Claim 18 A processing unit according to claim 14, wherein at least one housing connection part (100) includes at least one functional element (104), at least one functional element (104) is operablely connectable to at least one functional element (44) of the head connection part (32), and at least one functional element (104) includes a support area (105) perpendicular to the connection axis (20). Claim 19 A processing unit according to claim 14, wherein one or more support regions (105) are provided, and the total length of the support regions (105) in the circumferential direction occupies at least 20% of the corresponding circumference on the same radius of the housing connection part (100). Claim 20 In claim 14, the processing unit is characterized in that the housing connection part (100) includes a rotation prevention device. Claim 21 A connection head (12) for a processing unit (14) according to claim 14, comprising a housing port (58), a housing cover (60), at least one inlet (88) for a fluid to be processed, and at least one outlet (82) for a processed fluid, wherein the connection head (12) of the processing unit (10) is connectable to the processing unit (14) by a bayonet-type connection device (34) that is detachable by performing a plug-in / rotational movement about the connection axis (20) of the processing unit (10), and the connection device (34) comprises at least one head connection part (32) on a portion of the connection head (12) configured to connect the connection device (34) to at least one housing connection part (100) on a portion of the housing (56), and at least one infeed (16) of the connection head (12) is connectable to at least one inlet (88) for a fluid to be processed and / or at least one of the connection head (12). A connecting head (12) wherein a drain (18) is connectable to at least one outlet (82) for a treated fluid, and a housing connecting part (100) and a head connecting part (32) each include at least one mutually complementary functional element (44, 104) that is operatively connected to each other in a circumferential direction around a connecting axis (20), and a connecting device (34) includes at least one pretension element (54) for realizing mechanical pretension in which the mutually complementary functional elements (44, 104) can be pressed against each other, wherein the pretension element (54) is a spring element having at least two radially outwardly protruding spring arms (53) each having a straight section (55) tangentially oriented to a rim (57) that extends in a circular shape around the connecting axis (20) at a radially outer end face, and the pretension element (54) is fixed to the connecting head (12) by the head connecting part (32). Claim 22 A connecting head according to claim 21, characterized in that the spring arm (53) is configured to rest substantially flat on the rim (57) of the housing port (58). Claim 23 A connecting head according to claim 22, characterized in that three contact points with the rim (57) are provided on each spring arm (53). Claim 24 A connecting head characterized in that, in claim 21, a connecting head side protrusion (152) for a spring arm (53) is provided. Claim 25 A connecting head characterized in that, in claim 21, the pretension element (54) is implemented as a bent wire portion. Claim 26 A connecting head according to claim 21, wherein at least one head connecting portion (32) includes at least one functional element (44), and at least one functional element (44) is operablely connectable to at least one functional element (104) of the housing connecting portion (100), and at least one functional element (44) includes a support area (45) perpendicular to the connecting axis (20). Claim 27 A connecting head according to claim 26, wherein at least one functional element (44) comprises an assembly ramp (43) or a slide area (42) that is converted into a support area (45) perpendicular to the connecting axis (20). Claim 28 A connecting head according to claim 21, characterized in that one or more supporting regions (45) are provided, and the length of the or the entire length thereof in the circumferential direction occupies at least 20% of the corresponding circumference on the same radius of the head connecting portion (32).

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