Breather assembly with flow channels

Abstract

The breather assembly has an assembly body (110) having a first axial end (102) and a second axial end (104), a coupling structure (116) configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening (111) towards the second axial end, and environmental openings (112). The assembly body defines an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings. The environmental openings include outer laterally-facing openings and outer axially-facing openings. The assembly body defines a first set of flow channels (160) extending (i) laterally inward and (ii) axially towards the first axial end from the outer laterally-facing openings, and a second set of flow channels (162) extending (i) laterally outward (ii) and axially towards the second axial end from the outer axially-facing openings. Each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

Description

0444.000249W00100011507-W001BREATHER ASSEMBLY WITH FLOW CHANNELSRelated Applications

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 702,472 filed on October 2, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.Technological Field

[0002] The present disclosure is generally related to a breather assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to a breather assembly with flow channels.Summary

[0003] Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a breather assembly. The breather assembly has an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, and environmental openings. The assembly body defines an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings. The environmental openings include outer laterally-facing openings and outer axially-facing openings. The assembly body defines a first set of flow channels extending (i) laterally inward and (ii) axially towards the first axial end from the outer laterally-facing openings, and a second set of flow channels extending (i) laterally outward (ii) and axially towards the second axial end from the outer axially-facing openings. Each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0004] In some such embodiments, the second set of flow channels are defined by an end face on the first axial end of the assembly body. Additionally or alternatively, the first set of flow channels are defined by an axially extending sidewall of the assembly body. Additionally or alternatively, the each channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening. Additionally or alternatively, a channel wall of each flow channel of the firstset of flow channels has a first slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels. Additionally or alternatively, the breather assembly further includes a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway. Additionally or alternatively, the second set of flow channels extend from the outer axially-facing openings to inner axially-facing openings. The inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent. Additionally or alternatively, there is no line-of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the breather assembly further includes a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway. Additionally or alternatively, a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall.

[0005] Some embodiments of the technology disclosed herein relate to a breather assembly. The breather assembly has an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, and environmental openings. The assembly body defines an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings. The assembly body has an axially extending sidewall defining a first set of flow channels, and an end face defining a second set of flow channels. The environmental openings include the first set of flow channels and the second set of flow channels, and each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0006] In some such embodiments, each flow channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening. Additionally or alternatively, each flow channel of the second set of flow channels extends from an outer axially-facing opening to an inner axially-facing opening. Additionally or alternatively, a channel wall of each flow channel of the first set of flow channels has a first slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels. Additionally or alternatively, the breather assembly further includes a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway. Additionally or alternatively, the second set of flow channels extendfrom the outer axially-facing openings to the inner axially-facing openings. The inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent.Additionally or alternatively, there is no line-of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly. Additionally or alternatively, the breather assembly further includes a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway. Additionally or alternatively, a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall. Additionally or alternatively, the breather assembly further includes a passive airflow vent and a valve disposed in parallel with the passive airflow vent with respect to airflow through the airflow pathway.

[0007] The above summary is not intended to describe each embodiment or every implementation. Rather, a more complete understanding of illustrative embodiments will become apparent and appreciated by reference to the following Detailed Description and claims in view of the accompanying figures of the drawing.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] The present technology may be more completely understood and appreciated in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0009] FIG. l is a perspective view of a portion of an example system consistent with the present technology.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a first cross-sectional view of an example assembly cover consistent with FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a second cross-sectional view of an example assembly cover consistent with FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example assembly consistent with FIG. 1.

[0013] The figures are rendered primarily for clarity and, as a result, are not necessarily drawn to scale. Moreover, various structures / components, including but not limited to fasteners, electrical components (wiring, cables, etc.), and the like, may be shown diagrammatically or removed from some or all of the views to better illustrate aspects of the depicted embodiments, or where inclusion of suchstructure / components is not necessary to an understanding of the various exemplary embodiments described herein. The lack of illustration / description of such structure / components in a particular figure is, however, not to be interpreted as limiting the scope of the various embodiments in any way.Detailed Description

[0014] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an example system 10 having a housing 200 and a breather assembly 100. “Breather assembly” is defined herein as an assembly that accommodates fluid communication therethrough. The housing 200 generally defines an enclosure 232. FIG. 2 depicts a first cross-sectional view of an example assembly cover consistent with the example assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 depicts a second cross-sectional view of an example assembly cover consistent with FIG. 1. FIG. 4 depicts a cross-sectional view of one specific example of a breather assembly consistent with FIGS. 1-3.

[0015] The breather assembly 100 is generally configured to be coupled to the housing 200. The breather assembly 100 has an assembly body 110. The assembly body 110 has a first axial end 102 and a second axial end 104. The breather assembly 100 has a coupling structure 116 (best visible in FIG. 4) configured to be coupled to the housing 200. The breather assembly 100 has an assembly opening 111 (best visible in FIG. 4) towards the second axial end 104 and environmental openings 112. The assembly body 110 defines an airflow pathway 12 between the assembly opening 111 and an outside environment 14 through the environmental openings 112a, 112b. The breather assembly 100 is generally configured to facilitate airflow between the housing 200 and the outside environment 14 when it is coupled to the housing.

[0016] The assembly opening I l l is generally configured for direct fluid communication with an interior 182 of the housing 200, and the environmental openings 112 are generally configured to direct fluid communication with the outside environment 14.

[0017] When coupled to the housing 200, the assembly body 110 defines an airflow pathway 12 between the enclosure 232 and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the airflow pathway 12 is configured to allow constant gaseous communication between the enclosure 232 and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the airflow pathway 12 is configured to allow selective gaseouscommunication between the enclosure and the outside environment 14. In some implementations, the enclosure 232 is configured to be isolated from the outside environment 14 except through the airflow pathway 12.

[0018] The environmental openings 112 include outer laterally-facing openings 112b and outer axially-facing openings 112a. The assembly body 110 defines a first set of flow channels 160 and a second set of flow channels 162. The first set of flow channels 160 extend laterally inward and axially towards the first axial end 102 from the outer laterally-facing openings 112b. The second set of flow channels 162 extend laterally outward and axially towards the second axial end 104 from the outer axially- facing openings 112a. Each flow channel of the first set of flow channels 160 is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels 162, which is particularly visible in FIGS. 2-4. “Oriented towards” is used to mean that the flow channel is configured to direct water spray from outside of the breather assembly towards an inner axially facing openings of a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels. The water spray may have a pressure of at least 8000 kPa at a distance of at least 100 mm from the breather assembly.

[0019] In the current example, the first set of flow channels 160 is configured to direct liquid spray traveling radially inward to the second set of flow channels 162. The second set of flow channels 162 is configured to direct liquid spray traveling axially towards the second end to the first set of flow channels 160. Such configurations may advantageously redirect contaminants out of the assembly body 110 and / or prevent contaminants from entering into the assembly body 110. For example, the flow channel configuration may advantageously prevent relatively high pressure fluid from contacting internal components of the valve assembly (such as a valve or a vent, etc.) while allowing airflow communication between the housing opening and the ambient environment.

[0020] In the current example, the first set of flow channels 160 are defined by an axially extending sidewall 115 of the assembly body 110. Each flow channel of the first set of flow channels 160 extends from a corresponding outer laterally-facing opening 112b to a corresponding inner laterally-facing opening 166b (FIGS. 2-3). In the current example, the second set of flow channels 162 are defined by an end face 114 on the first axial end 102 of the assembly body 110. Each flow channel of the second set of flow channels 162 extends from a corresponding outer axially-facing opening 112a to a corresponding inner axially-facing opening 166a.

[0021] The first set of flow channels 160 may include two or more channels axially distributed along the axially extending sidewall 115. In an alternate example, the first set of flow channels 160 can include a single channel in the axial direction along the axially extending sidewall 115. The first set of flow channels 160 may include two or more channels perimetrically distributed around the central axis x. In an alternate example, the first set of flow channels 160 can include a single channel perimetrically around the central axis x. The second set of flow channels 162 may have two or more channels laterally distributed along the end face 114 around the central axis x. In an alternate example, the second set of flow channels 162 can include a single channel on the end face 114 around the central axis x.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first set of flow channels 160 or second set of flow channels 162 only has a single channel. In the current example, the first set of flow channels 160 has two channels axially distributed along the central axis x. The first set of flow channels 160 has three channels perimetrically distributed around the central axis x. Each of the first set of flow channels 160 are defined by the axially extending sidewall 115. In the current example, the second set of flow channels 162 include twelve channels perimetrically distributed around the central axis x, and all the channels are distributed on the end face 114. It will be appreciated that the specific number of flow channels in the first set of flow channels and the second set of flow channels are not particularly limiting.

[0023] Each flow channel of the first set of flow channels 160 has a channel wall 160a. The channel wall 160a is generally configured to define the trajectory of liquid spray from the corresponding flow channel of the first set of the flow channels 160 to the corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels 162. The channel wall 160a has a slope such that an imaginary line LI (best visible in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) extending along the channel wall 160a extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels 162. The imaginary line LI can extend within the corresponding flow channel, in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the imaginary line LI extending along the channel wall 160a adjacent the inner laterally- facing openings 166b aligns with a corresponding flow channel wall of the second set of flow channels 162 adjacent the inner axially-facing opening 166a.

[0024] In various embodiments, each flow channel of the first set of flow channels 160 has multiple channel walls. One or more of such channel walls candefine a slope as described above. In some embodiments, each of the channel walls can define a slope as described above.

[0025] Each of flow channel of the second set of flow channels 162 has a channel wall 162a. Each channel wall 162a can be configured to define the trajectory of liquid spray from the corresponding flow channel of the second set of the flow channels 162 outward from the central axis x. In such examples, the channel wall 162a has a slope such that an imaginary line L2 (best visible in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3) extending along the channel wall 162a extends laterally outward beyond breather components within the housing, where example breather components are described in more detail below with reference to FIG. 4. In some examples, one or more channel walls 162a of the second set of flow channels 162 has a slope such that the imaginary line L2 extending along the channel wall 162a through the inner axial facing openings 166a extends to a corresponding flow channel of the first set of flow channels 160. In various embodiments, one or more channel walls 162a of the second set of flow channels 162 has a slope such that the imaginary line L2 extending along the channel wall 162a through the inner axial facing opening 166a extends to the axially extending sidewall 115.

[0026] FIG. 4 shows a specific example of an assembly body 110, but it will be appreciated that alternate configurations will also be consistent with the presently described technology. The assembly body 110 includes the axially extending sidewall 115 extending in the axial direction around the central axis x. The assembly body 110 includes the end face 114 extending laterally across a first end of the axially extending sidewall 115.

[0027] In the current example, the assembly body 110 has a base portion 117 (FIG. 4) and a cover 108 (also visible in FIGS. 1-3). The cover 108 generally extends laterally across the airflow pathway 12. In the current example, the cover 108 defines all of the environmental openings 112. In some other embodiments, the cover 108 can define one or more of the environmental openings 112. In the current example, the cover defines the axially extending sidewall 115 and the end face 114. The axially extending sidewall 115 extends axially between the base portion 117 and the end face 114.

[0028] The base portion 117 extends laterally across a second end of the axially extending sidewall 115. The axially extending sidewall 115, the base portion 117, and the end face 114 house breather components in various embodiments, where examplebreather components will be described in more detail below. In the current example the axially extending sidewall 115 and the end face 114 are integrated in a single component, the cover 108, that is coupled to the base, but in other embodiments, the assembly sidewall and the end face can be separate components. In some embodiments, the base portion 117 defines the axially extending sidewall 115. In some embodiments the cover defines the end face 114 and not the axially extending sidewall 115. In yet further embodiments the cover can define a portion of the axially extending sidewall 115 and the base can define another portion of the axially extending sidewall 115.

[0029] The cover 108 is coupled to the base portion 117. The cover 108 is heat welded or ultrasonic welded to the base portion 117. In some embodiments, the cover is coupled to the base portion 117 with a bayonet connector. In some embodiments, the cover is coupled to the base portion 117 with a screw thread. In some embodiments, the cover is coupled to the base portion 117 with a snap fit. the cover is coupled to the base portion 117 with chemical or adhesive bonding.

[0030] The housing 200 (a portion of an example of which is visible in FIG. 1) that the breather assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to is not particularly limited. The housing 200 generally defines an enclosure that is configured to be isolated from the external environment. The housing 200 can be consistent with a variety of different types of housings known in the art. The housing 200 can be configured to house electronic components or battery components, as examples.

[0031] The housing 200 (FIG. 1) that the breather assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to generally defines a housing opening that is configured to receive the breather assembly 100. The housing 200 defines a mating structure around the housing opening. The mating structure is generally configured to mate with the coupling structure 116. In various embodiments the mating structure is configured to sealably engage the breather assembly 100. In some embodiments, the breather assembly 100 is configured to meet a degree of protection specified in ISO 20653 (2013) when the breather assembly 100 is installed in the housing 200. In some such embodiments, the breather assembly 100 is configured to specifically meet a IPx9K protection rating when the breather assembly 100 is installed in the housing 200.

[0032] The housing 200 may be configured to couple to a single breather assembly 100, in some implementations. In some implementations of the current technology, the breather assembly 100 can be used in conjunction with other breatherassemblies that are each also configured to be coupled to the same housing. In some implementations, the breather assembly 100 may be the only component used for fluid communication between the housing 200 and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the breather assembly 100 may be functionally parallel to a plurality of other breather assemblies that are coupled to the same housing.

[0033] In some examples such as the example of FIG. 4, the coupling structure 116 is a screw thread. The screw thread can be configured to be received by a mating screw thread defined by the housing 200 around the housing opening. In some other embodiments the screw thread is configured to receive a mating screw thread of a washer on the enclosure 232 side of the housing 200. In some embodiments, the screw thread is defined by the assembly body 110. Various different coupling structures can be consistent with the example depicted in FIG. 1, including a screw thread just described. In some embodiments, the coupling structure includes a bayonet connector. In some such embodiments, the bayonet connector is defined by the assembly body 110. The mating structure is a bayonet receptacle that is configured to be received by the bayonet connector. In some embodiments the coupling structure and the housing form a snap fit. In some embodiments the coupling structure is a contact surface that is configured to couple to a mating contact surface of the housing around the housing opening. In such examples, the coupling structure can be coupled to the housing through the use of fasteners, adhesives, welds, and the like.

[0034] In various implementations the coupling structure 116 allows coupling of the breather assembly 100 to the housing 200 from the outside of the housing 200 without accessing the inside of the housing 200. As is particularly visible in FIG. 4, the coupling structure 116 includes a sealing surface 130 that is configured to form a seal between the breather assembly 100 and the housing 200 around the housing opening. In the current example, the sealing surface 130 is defined, at least in part, by a sealing ring 132 that is configured to be compressed between the breather assembly 100 and the housing 200 around the housing opening. The sealing surface 130 is configured to create a seal between the breather assembly 100 and the housing 200 when the breather assembly 100 is coupled to the housing 200. In embodiments consistent with the current example, the sealing surface 130 is defined around the screw thread. In some other embodiments where there is a bayonet connector, the sealing surface 130 is defined around the bayonet connector. The sealing ring 132 can be any suitable material(s). In some embodiments, the sealing ring 132 can be anelastomeric material. In some embodiments the sealing ring 132 is rubber or another gasketing or sealing material. In some embodiments the sealing surface 130 includes an annular recess that is configured to receive the sealing ring 132. In some other embodiments such as the current example, the sealing surface 130 does not include an annular recess.

[0035] In some examples of the current technology, the breather assembly includes a breather component that is housed in the assembly body. “Breather component” is defined herein as a component that accommodates fluid communication therethrough. The breather components of breather assemblies consistent with the present technology are not particularly limited. In some embodiments, the breather component includes a valve that selectively obstructs at least a portion of the airflow pathway between the assembly opening and the environmental openings of the breather assembly. In some embodiments, the breather component includes a passive airflow vent that extends across at least a portion of the airflow pathway between the assembly opening and the environmental openings of the breather assembly. The passive airflow vent may be configured to selectively obstruct passage of some types of fluid and selectively allow passage of other types of fluid. Example passive airflow vents are described in more detail below.

[0036] In some embodiments, the breather component includes a passive airflow vent and a valve that cumulatively extend across the entire airflow pathway between the assembly opening and the environmental openings of the breather assembly. It is noted that in various embodiments, a passive airflow vent is omitted and only a valve is used as the breather component. In various other embodiments, a valve can be omitted and only a passive airflow vent is used as the breather component.

[0037] FIG. 4 depicts a cross-sectional perspective view of a particular example of a breather assembly 100 consistent with the present technology. In the current example, the breather assembly 100 has breather components including a valve 150 and the passive airflow vent 140 operationally parallel with the valve 150. In some embodiments one of the passive airflow vent 140 and the valve 150 can be omitted.

[0038] In the current example, the passive airflow vent 140 is disposed in the assembly body 110 and across a portion of the airflow pathway 12. The passive airflow vent 140 allows passive airflow along a vent airflow pathway 141 between the first axial end 102 and the second axial end 104 of the assembly body 110 under normal pressure conditions. In some embodiments the passive airflow vent 140 isconfigured to prevent liquids and particulates from passing therethrough. In this particular example, upon a high-pressure event inside the housing 200, the breather assembly 100 is configured to allow gases to escape the housing 200 by bypassing the vent airflow pathway 141 and the passive airflow vent 140.

[0039] In various embodiments having a passive airflow vent 140, including the example described, the second set of flow channels 162 are directed away from the passive airflow vent 140. The inner axially-facing openings 166a are laterally outward from an unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140. In some embodiments, the inner axially-facing openings 166a are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent 140 itself. In some embodiments there is no line of sight from the first axial end 102 of the breather assembly 100 to the passive airflow vent 140. In some embodiments, when viewed from the first axial end 102 of the assembly body 110 and looking down along a central axis x from the first axial end 102 of the assembly body 110 towards the base portion 117, the passive airflow vent 140 is not visible. In some embodiments, the imaginary line L2 extending along the channel wall 162b through the inner axially-facing opening 166a bypasses the passive airflow vent 140.

[0040] In some embodiments, the first set of flow channels 160 are directed away from the passive airflow vent 140. In some embodiments, there is no line of sight from the outer laterally-facing openings 112b of the breather assembly 100 to the passive airflow vent 140. In some embodiments, when viewed from the outer laterally-facing openings 112b of the breather assembly 100 towards the interior of the breather assembly 100, the passive airflow vent 140 is not visible. In some embodiments, the imaginary line LI extending along the channel wall 160a adjacent the inner laterally-facing openings 166b bypasses the passive airflow vent 140.

[0041] The passive airflow vent 140 can be constructed of a variety of different materials and combinations of materials. In some embodiments the passive airflow vent 140 is a metal foil. The passive airflow vent 140 can be an elastomeric material such as latex. In various embodiments the passive airflow vent 140 incorporates a breathable membrane. The breathable membrane can incorporate expanded polytetrafluorethylene (ePTFE), sintered polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE), or other types of breathable membranes. The breathable membrane is generally porous to accommodate airflow. The breathable membrane can have a Frazier Permeability of 0.035 to 8.0 ft / min at 0.5 inches of water, and more particularly 0.035 to 3.0 ft / min at 0.5 inches of water.

[0042] The passive airflow vent 140 can be a laminate or composite that includes a breathable membrane. For example, the passive airflow vent 140 can be a breathable membrane laminated to a woven or non-woven support layer. In another example, the passive airflow vent 140 can be a breathable membrane having a coating. In some other embodiments, the passive airflow vent 140 can be a breathable membrane alone, without another layer. In some embodiments, the passive airflow vent 140 is a woven fabric or a non-woven fabric. The passive airflow vent 140 can be constructed of hydrophobic material, or the passive airflow vent 140 can be treated to exhibit hydrophobic properties. In one example, the passive airflow vent 140 is a hydrophobic woven or non-woven fabric.

[0043] The breather assembly 100 has a vent mounting surface 120 on which the passive airflow vent 140 is mounted. The vent mounting surface 120 surrounds a vent opening 121 that defines the vent airflow pathway 141. The passive airflow vent 140 has a perimetric region 144 that bonded to the vent mounting surface 120 and an unbonded region 146 central to the perimetric region 144. The perimetric region 144 is coupled to the vent mounting surface 120 across the vent airflow pathway 141. In some embodiments the passive airflow vent 140 has a support ring to support the periphery of the passive airflow vent 140 that is coupled to the vent mounting surface 120.

[0044] In the current example, the passive airflow vent 140 forms a circular disk, although the passive airflow vent 140 can have other shapes as well. The passive airflow vent 140 can be coupled to the vent mounting surface 120 with adhesive to form a seal between the passive airflow vent 140 and the vent mounting surface 120. The passive airflow vent 140 can be coupled to the vent mounting surface 120 with an adhesive or through other approaches such as heat welding. In some embodiments the assembly body 110 can be over-molded to the passive airflow vent 140. In some embodiments the passive airflow vent and its corresponding structural components such as the vent stand can be omitted. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that the specific vent design is not particularly limited and various alternative vent designs can be used with breather assemblies consistent with the technology disclosed herein.

[0045] In the current example the assembly body 110 has a breather component that includes a valve 150. As such, the airflow pathway 12 defined by the assembly body 110 has a valve airflow pathway 151. In the current example the valve airflow pathway 151 is functionally parallel with the vent airflow pathway 141. The valve 150is configured to selectively obstruct the valve airflow pathway 151. The valve 150 is configured to selectively obstruct the valve airflow pathway 151 between the assembly opening 111 and the environmental openings 112. The valve 150 is generally configured to allow gases from inside the housing 200 to escape to the outside environment 14 when the environment inside the housing 200 undergoes a relative pressure spike. Upon a pressure event inside the housing 200 that reaches a first threshold pressure, the valve 150 is configured to open. In some embodiments the valve 150 opens irreversibly. In some embodiments the valve 150 opens reversibly, meaning that the valve 150 returns to a closed position once the pressure inside the housing lowers to a second threshold pressure.

[0046] The valve 150 extends across the valve airflow pathway 151 to a sealing lip 154 in removable contact with a valve sealing surface 113 around the valve airflow pathway 151. The valve sealing surface 113 is defined circumferentially around the central axis x of the breather assembly 100. In the current example, the valve sealing surface 113 is defined by the assembly body 110. The sealing lip 154 forms a releasable seal with the assembly body 110 along the valve sealing surface 113. For example, upon a relatively high-pressure event within the housing 200, the sealing lip 154 is displaced from the valve sealing surface 113 to release pressure along the valve airflow pathway 151.

[0047] In various embodiments having a valve 150, including the example described, the second set of flow channels 162 are directed away from the valve 150. In some embodiments there is no line of sight from the first axial end 102 of the breather assembly 100 to the unsupported portion of the valve 150, which is the portion of the valve 150 central to the sealing lip 154. In some embodiments there is no line of sight from the first axial end 102 of the breather assembly 100 to the entire valve 150. In some embodiments, when viewed from the first axial end 102 of the assembly body 110 along the central axis x towards the base portion 117, the unsupported portion of the valve 150 is not visible. In some embodiments, the imaginary line L2 extending along the channel wall 162b extending through the inner axially-facing openings 166a bypasses the valve 150.

[0048] In some embodiments, the first set of flow channels 160 are directed away from the valve 150. In some embodiments, there is no line-of-sight from the outer laterally-facing openings 112b of the breather assembly 100 to the valve 150. In some embodiments, when viewed from the outer laterally-facing openings 112b of thebreather assembly 100 towards the interior of the breather assembly 100, the valve 150 is not visible. In some embodiments, the imaginary line LI extending along the channel wall 160a adjacent the inner laterally-facing openings 166b bypasses the valve 150.

[0049] The assembly body 110 can be spaced from the valve 150 to define a gap that prevents interference from the assembly body 110 on the valve 150 from the closed position to the open position. In some embodiments, the gap is less than 10 mm, is less than 8 mm, or is less than 5 mm. Preferably, the gap is less than 4 mm. Such configuration may enable the sealing lip 154 to translate from the closed position to the fully open position with a relatively lower pressure differential between the interior 182 and the outside environment 14 compared to a breather assembly lacking a sidewall. An advantageously sized gap may create a localized, relatively high-pressure space between the inner sidewall and the sealing lip 154, and such localized high pressure may create a vertically upward air flow that pushes the sealing lip 154 to a fully open position. A fully open position may maximize airflow through the valve assembly. Such configurations may advantageously enable the sealing lip 154 to translate to a fully open position with a relatively lower pressure differential between the interior 182 and exterior environment 14 compared with the breather assembly 100 with a larger gap.

[0050] In some embodiments, the breather assembly 100 has a valve stem 124, although such a component can be omitted. In the current example, the valve stem 124 extends in the axial direction. The valve stem 124 defines a vent opening 121 through which the vent airflow pathway 141 extends. In the current example, the valve airflow pathway 151 laterally surrounds the valve stem 124.

[0051] The sealing lip 154 is laterally outwards from the distal end 172 of the valve stem. In various embodiments, the valve sealing surface 113 is positioned radially outward from the valve stem 124. The sealing lip 154 is translatable between a closed position towards a proximal end 170 of the valve stem 124 and an open position away from the proximal end 170 and beyond the distal end 172 of the valve stem 124.

[0052] In some examples, the valve stem 124 is a separate component that is coupled to the base portion 117 of the assembly body 110. In some other embodiments, the valve stem 124 integral with the assembly body 110 to form a single, unitary component. In some embodiments, the valve stem 124 is fused to theassembly body 110, such as through a welding operation. Examples of welding methods include heat welding and ultrasonic welding, although other types of welding are certainly possible. In some embodiments the valve stem 124 and the valve 150 form an interference fit, such as where the valve 150 defines the valve opening 152 that receives the valve stem 124, the valve 150 can engage the valve stem 124 around the valve opening 152. In some examples, the valve stem 124 is compressibly received by the valve 150.

[0053] In some embodiments, the valve 150 is coupled to the valve stem 124. The valve 150 is compressibly received between the assembly body 110 and the lateral extension 128. In some embodiments, the valve 150 has an inner perimeter defining the valve opening 152, and the valve 150 extends from the inner perimeter to a sealing lip 154 defined by an outer perimeter. The valve opening 152 receives the valve stem 124. The valve 150 extends radially outward from the valve stem 124. In the current example, the inner perimeter of the valve 150 is coupled to the valve stem 124 such that the valve stem 124 is disposed in the valve opening 152.

[0054] In the current example the assembly body 110 defines an inner perimeter that receives the valve stem 124. An inner perimeter of the assembly body 110 is coupled to the valve stem 124. In some embodiments, the inner perimeter of the assembly body 110 is coupled to the valve stem 124 towards the distal end 172.

[0055] In the current example, the valve stem 124 has a lateral extension 128 extending laterally outward from a vent opening 121. The lateral extension 128 is defined on a distal end 172 of the valve stem 124. In some embodiments, the valve 150 is configured to abut the outer perimeter of the lateral extension 128 in a fully open position. In the current example, the lateral extension defines the vent mounting surface 120. A recessed surface is defined by the lateral extension 128 centrally to the vent mounting surface 120. The recessed surface is spaced from the passive airflow vent 140 in the axial direction. Such a configuration exposes the surface area of the unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140.

[0056] The unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140 may advantageously increase the surface area of the passive airflow vent 140 available for airflow. The unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140 has a surface area that is greater than a lateral area of the vent airflow pathway 141 though the valve stem 124. The unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140 can have a surface area that is at least 2 times or even 5 times greater than a lateral area of thevent airflow pathway 141 through a valve stem 124. In some embodiments, the unbonded region 146 of the passive airflow vent 140 has a surface area that is at least 20 times greater than, 100 times greater than, or 140 times greater than a lateral area of the vent airflow pathway 141 through the valve stem 124.

[0057] It should be appreciated that various alternative valve designs can be used with breather assemblies consistent with the technology disclosed herein.Exemplary Aspects

[0058] Aspect 1. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and environmental openings, the assembly body defining an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings, wherein the environmental openings comprise outer laterally-facing openings and outer axially- facing openings, wherein the assembly body defines a first set of flow channels extending (i) laterally inward and (ii) axially towards the first axial end from the outer laterally-facing openings, and a second set of flow channels extending (i) laterally outward (ii) and axially towards the second axial end from the outer axially-facing openings, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0059] Aspect 2. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1 and 3-10, wherein the second set of flow channels are defined by an end face on the first axial end of the assembly body.

[0060] Aspect 3. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-2 and 4-10, wherein the first set of flow channels are defined by an axially extending sidewall of the assembly body.

[0061] Aspect 4. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-3 and 5-10, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening.

[0062] Aspect 5. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-4 and 6-10, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the first set of flow channels has a first slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0063] Aspect 6. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-5 and 7-10, further comprising a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

[0064] Aspect 7. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-6 and 8-10, wherein the second set of flow channels extend from the outer axially-facing openings to inner axially-facing openings, wherein the inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent.

[0065] Aspect 8. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-7 and 9-10, wherein there is no line-of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly.

[0066] Aspect 9. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-8 and 10, further comprising a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

[0067] Aspect 10. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-9, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall.

[0068] Aspect 11. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and environmental openings, the assembly body defining an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: an axially extending sidewall defining a first set of flow channels, and an end face defining a second set of flow channels, wherein the environmental openings comprise the first set of flow channels and the second set of flow channels, and each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0069] Aspect 12. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11 and 13-20, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening.

[0070] Aspect 13. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-12 and 14-20, wherein each flow channel of the second set of flow channels extends from an outer axially-facing opening to an inner axially-facing opening.

[0071] Aspect 14. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-13 and 15-20, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the first set of flow channels has afirst slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

[0072] Aspect 15. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-14 and 16-20, further comprising a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

[0073] Aspect 16. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-15 and 17-20, wherein the second set of flow channels extend from the outer axially-facing openings to inner axially-facing openings, wherein the inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent.

[0074] Aspect 17. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-16 and 18-20, wherein there is no line-of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly.

[0075] Aspect 18. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-17 and 19-20, further comprising a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

[0076] Aspect 19. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-18 and 20, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall.

[0077] Aspect 20. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 11-19, further comprising a passive airflow vent and a valve disposed in parallel with the passive airflow vent with respect to airflow through the airflow pathway.

[0078] It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus, or other structure that is constructed to perform a particular task or adopt a particular configuration. The word "configured" can be used interchangeably with similar words such as “arranged”, “constructed”, “manufactured”, and the like.

[0079] The term "about" as used herein can allow for a degree of variability in a value or range, for example, within 10%, within 5%, or within 1 % of a stated value or of a stated limit of a range and includes the exact stated value or range. The term "substantially" as used herein refers to a majority of, or mostly, as in at least about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.5%, 99.9%, 99.99%, or at least about 99.999% or more, or 100%.

[0080] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology pertains. Allpublications and patent applications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patent application was specifically and individually indicated by reference. In the event that any inconsistency exists between the disclosure of the present application and the disclosure(s) of any document incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of the present application shall govern.

[0081] This application is intended to cover adaptations or variations of the present subject matter. It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive, and the claims are not limited to the illustrative embodiments as set forth herein.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and environmental openings, the assembly body defining an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings, wherein the environmental openings comprise outer laterally-facing openings and outer axially-facing openings, wherein the assembly body defines a first set of flow channels extending (i) laterally inward and (ii) axially towards the first axial end from the outer laterally-facing openings, and a second set of flow channels extending (i) laterally outward (ii) and axially towards the second axial end from the outer axially-facing openings, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

2. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1 and 3-10, wherein the second set of flow channels are defined by an end face on the first axial end of the assembly body.

3. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-2 and 4-10, wherein the first set of flow channels are defined by an axially extending sidewall of the assembly body.

4. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-3 and 5-10, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening.

5. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-4 and 6-10, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the first set of flow channels has a first slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

6. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-5 and 7-10, further comprising a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

7. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-6 and 8-10, wherein the second set of flow channels extend from the outer axially-facing openings to inner axially-facing openings, wherein the inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent.

8. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-7 and 9-10, wherein there is no line- of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly.

9. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-8 and 10, further comprising a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

10. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-9, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall.

11. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body having a first axial end and a second axial end, a coupling structure configured to couple to an enclosure, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and environmental openings, the assembly body defining an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: an axially extending sidewall defining a first set of flow channels, and an end face defining a second set of flow channels, wherein the environmental openings comprise the first set of flow channels and the second set of flow channels, and each flow channel of the first set of flow channels is oriented towards at least one corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

12. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11 and 13-20, wherein each flow channel of the first set of flow channels extends from an outer laterally-facing opening to an inner laterally-facing opening.

13. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-12 and 14-20, wherein each flow channel of the second set of flow channels extends from an outer axially-facing opening to an inner axially-facing opening.

14. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-13 and 15-20, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the first set of flow channels has a first slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to a corresponding flow channel of the second set of flow channels.

15. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-14 and 16-20, further comprising a passive airflow vent disposed in the assembly body across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

16. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-15 and 17-20, wherein the second set of flow channels extend from the outer axially-facing openings to inner axially- facing openings, wherein the inner axially-facing openings are laterally outward from the passive airflow vent.

17. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-16 and 18-20, wherein there is no line-of-sight to the passive airflow vent from the first axial end of the breather assembly.

18. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-17 and 19-20, further comprising a valve disposed across at least a portion of the airflow pathway.

19. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-18 and 20, wherein a channel wall of each flow channel of the second set of flow channels has a second slope such that an imaginary line extending along the channel wall extends to the axially extending sidewall.

20. The breather assembly of any one of claims 11-19, further comprising a passive airflow vent and a valve disposed in parallel with the passive airflow vent with respect to airflow through the airflow pathway. 1

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