Breather assembly and system

Abstract

Some aspects of this technology relate to a breather assembly. An assembly body defines a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings. The assembly body has a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing. The coupling structure has a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end. A perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounds all of the one or more environmental openings. The perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end. An engagement surface is in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface. The engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface.

Description

0444.011660W00100011660-W001BREATHER ASSEMBLY AND SYSTEM

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 734,890 filed 17 December 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.Technological Field

[0002] The present disclosure is generally related to breather assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure is related to breather assembly and system.Summary

[0003] Some aspects of the technology disclosed herein relate to a breather assembly. An assembly body defines a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings. The assembly body has a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing. The coupling structure has a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end. A perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounds all of the one or more environmental openings. The perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end. An engagement surface is in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface. The engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface.

[0004] In some such aspects, the engagement surface includes a plurality of engagement surfaces spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surface and the perimetric sealing surface share a central axis. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly body further includes a plurality of installation surfaces extending radially outward. Additionally or alternatively, a first portion of the breather assembly between the engagement surface and the first axial end is within an outer lateral boundary of the engagement surface. Additionally or alternatively, all of the one or more environmental openings are within an inner lateral boundary of the perimetric sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surface is positioned between the perimetric sealing surface and the first axial end. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surface is0444.011660W00100011660-W001 radially outward from the perimetric sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surface is radially inward from the perimetric sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the engagement surface includes a bayonet connector. Additionally or alternatively, one or more breather components are disposed in the assembly body across the airflow pathway.

[0005] Some aspects of the technology disclosed herein relate to a system. A breather assembly has an assembly body defining a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings. The assembly body includes a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing. The coupling structure includes a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end. A perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounds all of the one or more environmental openings. The perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end. An engagement surface is in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface. The engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface. A leak check tool includes a mounting structure configured to disengageably engage the engagement surface. The leak check tool has a corresponding mating surface configured to seal against the perimetric sealing surface when the mounting structure engages the engagement surface to isolate each of the one or more environmental openings from the outside environment.

[0006] Some such aspects of the present technology include an installation tool, wherein the assembly body has a radial installation surface and the installation tool is configured to rotatably engage the radial installation surface to install the breather assembly onto the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the coupling structure includes a helical thread configured to engage the housing. Additionally or alternatively, the leak check tool includes an attachment structure and a flow channel extending through the attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure is configured to be coupled to a pressure source. Additionally or alternatively, the leak check tool has a first tool end and the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the corresponding mating surface to the first tool end. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting structure includes a bayonet connector and the engagement surface includes a mating bayonet connector. Additionally or0444.011660W00100011660-W001 alternatively, the bayonet connector limits rotation of the leak check tool relative to the breather assembly to 40 degrees or less. Additionally or alternatively, the bayonet connector defines a channel opening and a channel stop, wherein the channel stop extends radially inward from the channel opening. Additionally or alternatively, the channel stop is a ramped surface. Additionally or alternatively, the channel stop is a stepped surface.

[0007] Some aspects of the present technology relate to a leak check tool. An isolation portion has an isolation chamber and an insertion opening leading to the isolation chamber. A sealing surface surrounds the insertion opening towards a second tool end of the leak check tool. A mounting surface opposes the sealing surface, where the mounting surface surrounds the isolation chamber and is configured to disengageably engage a breather assembly.

[0008] According to some such aspects, the sealing surface surrounds the mounting surface. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting surface surrounds the sealing surface. Additionally or alternatively, the leak check tool includes an attachment structure and a flow channel extending through the attachment structure, where the attachment structure is configured to be coupled to a pressure source. Additionally or alternatively, the leak check tool has a first tool end and the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the sealing surface to the first tool end. Additionally or alternatively, the mounting structure includes a bayonet connector. Additionally or alternatively, the bayonet connector limits rotation of the leak check tool to 40 degrees or less. Additionally or alternatively, the bayonet connector defines a channel opening and a channel stop, where the channel stop extends radially inward from the channel opening. Additionally or alternatively, the channel stop is a ramped surface. Additionally or alternatively, the channel stop is a stepped surface. Additionally or alternatively, a lateral sidewall and an axial sidewall surround the isolation chamber.

[0009] 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 Drawings0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0010] 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.

[0011] FIG. 1 A is a cross-sectional view of an example breather assembly consistent with the present technology in an example implementation.

[0012] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the example breather assembly of FIG. 1A.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example system consistent with the present technology.

[0014] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of example system consistent with FIG. 2.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of another example system consistent with the present technology.

[0016] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of example system consistent with FIG. 4.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of yet another example system consistent with the present technology.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a bottom perspective view of an example leak check tool consistent with the present technology.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an example installation tool consistent with the present technology.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a bottom perspective view of example installation tool consistent with FIG. 8.

[0021] 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 such structure / 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 Description0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0022] FIG. 1 depicts a cross-sectional view of an example breather assembly 100. The breather assembly 100 is generally configured to facilitate pressure equalization between a housing and an outside environment.

[0023] The breather assembly 100 generally includes an assembly body 110. The assembly body 110 defines a first axial end 102 and a second axial end 104. The breather assembly 100 defines an assembly opening 111 towards the second axial end 104. The assembly opening 111 is generally configured for direct fluid communication with an interior of a housing 520. The breather assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to the housing 520. The breather assembly 100 is generally configured to facilitate airflow between the interior of the breather assembly 100 and an outside environment 14. In particular, the breather assembly 100 is generally configured to facilitate airflow between the housing 520 and the outside environment 14 when the breather assembly 100 is coupled to the housing 520.

[0024] The breather assembly 100 has one or more environmental openings 112. The environmental openings 112 are generally configured for direct fluid communication with the outside environment 14. The breather assembly 100 has an airflow pathway 12 (FIG. 3) between the assembly opening 111 and the outside environment 14 through the environmental openings 112.

[0025] The orientation of environmental openings 112 is not particularly limited and can be consistent with the examples of the disclosure. In the current example, the environmental openings 112 are laterally-facing openings. The laterally-facing environmental openings 112 are perimetrically distributed around a central axis x. In some embodiments consistent with FIGS. 4 - 6, the environmental openings include both laterally-facing and axially-facing openings. The environmental openings consistent with FIGS. 4 - 6 are perimetrically distributed around the central axis x. The number of the environmental openings 112 is not limited. In the current example, there are six environmental openings 112. In the example consistent with FIGS. 4 - 6, there are more than six environmental openings. However, in some other embodiments, there may be only one environmental opening.

[0026] The assembly body 110 has a coupling structure 116. The coupling structure 116 is generally configured to couple to the housing 520. In the current example, the housing 520 that the breather assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to defines a housing opening 530 that is configured to receive the breather assembly 100. The housing 520 defines a mating structure around the housing opening 530. The0444.011660W00100011660-W001 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.

[0027] In some embodiments consistent with the current example, the coupling structure 116 has helical threads and is configured to engage the housing 520. In some examples such as the example of FIG. 1, the coupling structure 116 is a helical thread. The helical thread can be configured to be received by a mating helical thread defined by the housing 520 around the housing opening 530. In some other embodiments, the helical thread is configured to receive a mating helical thread of a washer on an enclosure side of the housing 520. In some embodiments, the helical thread is defined by the assembly body 110.

[0028] Various different coupling structures can be consistent with the example depicted in FIG. 1. 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 116 includes a housing mating surface 160. In some embodiments, the coupling structure 116 is the housing mating surface 160 that is configured to couple to a corresponding mating surface of the housing 520 around the housing opening 530. In such examples, the coupling structure can be coupled to the housing through the use of fasteners, adhesives, welds, and the like.

[0029] In various implementations, the coupling structure 116 allows coupling of the breather assembly 100 to the housing from the outside of the housing without accessing the inside of the housing.

[0030] As is particularly visible in FIG. 1, the coupling structure 116 includes the housing mating surface 160 surrounding the airflow pathway 12. The housing mating surface 160 faces the second axial end 104. The housing mating surface 160 may form a seal between the breather assembly 100 and the housing 520 around the housing opening 530. In some embodiments, the housing mating surface 160 is configured to contact an outer surface of the housing 520 when the assembly body is coupled to the housing 520. In some embodiments the housing mating surface 160 is configured to create a seal between the assembly body 110 and the housing 520 around the airflow pathway 12 when the assembly body 110 is coupled to the housing0444.011660W00100011660-W001520. In embodiments consistent with the current example, the housing mating surface 160 is defined around the helical thread. In some other embodiments where there is a bayonet connector, the housing mating surface 160 is defined around the bayonet connector. In some embodiments, the housing mating surface 160 is further defined, at least in part, by a sealing ring (not currently depicted) that is configured to be compressed between the breather assembly 100 and the housing 520 around the housing opening 530.

[0031] The sealing ring can be any suitable material(s). In some embodiments, the sealing ring can be an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the sealing ring is rubber or another gasketing or sealing material. In some embodiments, the housing mating surface 160 includes an annular recess that is configured to receive the sealing ring. In some embodiments, the sealing ring can be omitted. In some other embodiments such as the current example, the housing mating surface 160 does not include an annular recess.

[0032] When coupled to the housing, the assembly body 110 defines the airflow pathway 12 between the interior of the housing and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the airflow pathway 12 is configured to allow constant gaseous communication between the interior of the housing and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the airflow pathway 12 is configured to allow selective gaseous communication between the interior of the housing and the outside environment 14. In some implementations, the interior of the housing is configured to be isolated from the outside environment 14 except through the airflow pathway 12. The housing 520 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 breather assemblies 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 520 and the outside environment 14. In some embodiments, the breather assembly 100 may be functionally parallel with a plurality of other breather assemblies that are coupled to the same housing.

[0033] The housing 520 that the breather assembly 100 is configured to be coupled to is not particularly limited. The housing 520 generally defines an enclosure that is configured to be isolated from the external environment. The housing 520 can be consistent with a variety of different types of housing known in the art. The0444.011660W00100011660-W001 housing 520 can be configured to house electronic components or battery components, for example.

[0034] In various implementations, when coupled to the housing, the breather assembly 100 is configured to be used with the leak check tool 120. The leak check tool 120 is generally configured to obstruct fluid communication between the outside environment 14 and the airflow pathway 12 such that the housing 520 and / or the breather assembly 100 can be checked for leaks. The leak check tool 120 is configured to isolate the airflow pathway 12 in the breather assembly 100 from the outside environment 14.

[0035] In various examples, the assembly body 110 is configured to be engaged by the leak check tool 120. During the leak check, the leak check tool 120 is coupled to the assembly body 110 and creates a seal to block fluid communication between the breather assembly 100 and the outside environment 14. Leak checking can be accomplished through a variety of different approaches and combinations of approaches generally understood in the art. For example, the leak check test may be achieved by using an external detector, for example a flow sensor or a gas sensor, to detect fluid communication between the breather assembly 100 or the housing 520 and outside environment 14. As another example, a pressure sensor may be used to monitor the pressure change inside the housing after introducing a vacuum or pressurized fluid inside the housing. A pressure change may indicate whether there is any fluid communication (i.e. leaks) between the breather assembly 100 and outside environment 14. The leak check test is generally performed after coupling the breather assembly 100 to the housing 520.

[0036] In various embodiments, the leak check tool 120 is not a component of the breather assembly 100. Rather, the leak check tool 120 is a separate component that can be used in conjunction with the breather assembly 100. Some systems consistent with the present technology can incorporate both a breather assembly and a leak check tool. In some implementations, the leak check tool is configured to couple to a plurality of similar breather assemblies, where each breather assembly is coupled to a different housing, such that multiple systems can be checked for leaks with a single leak check tool. Now example interacting structures of the breather assembly and the leak check tool will be described more particularly.

[0037] With reference to the examples consistent with FIG. 1, the assembly body 110 has a perimetric sealing surface 162. The perimetric sealing surface 162 is0444.011660W00100011660-W001 generally configured to form a seal between a leak check tool 120 and the assembly body 110 around the environmental openings 112. The leak check tool is visible in FIGS. 2-3, where FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of an example system 10 consistent with FIG. 1 and FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the example system 10 of FIG. 2. The perimetric sealing surface 162 laterally surrounds all of the one or more environmental openings 112. The perimetric sealing surface 162 faces the first axial end 102. In the current example, the perimetric sealing surface 162 is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings 112 and the second axial end 104. In the current example, the environmental openings 112 are within an inner lateral boundary 161 of the perimetric sealing surface 162. In various embodiments, the perimetric sealing surface 162 of the assembly body 110 is configured to create a seal between the assembly body 110 and the leak check tool 120 when the assembly body 110 is coupled to the leak check tool. In embodiments consistent with the current example the perimetric sealing surface 162 is defined around the airflow pathway 12.

[0038] In some embodiments, the perimetric sealing surface 162 is further defined, at least in part, by a sealing component 122 (example visible in FIG. 2) that is configured to be compressed between the assembly body 110 and the leak check tool 120 around environmental openings 112. The sealing component 122 can be a component of the leak check tool 120 or the breather assembly 100. In some embodiments the sealing component 122 is an independent component from the breather assembly 100 and the leak check tool 120.

[0039] The sealing component 122 can be any suitable material(s). In some embodiments, the sealing component 122 can be an elastomeric material. In some embodiments, the sealing component 122 is rubber or another gasketing or sealing material. In some embodiments, the perimetric sealing surface 162 includes an annular recess that is configured to receive the sealing component 122. In some other embodiments such as the current example, the perimetric sealing surface 162 does not include an annular recess. In some embodiments, the sealing component 122 can be omitted.

[0040] The leak check tool 120 can have a variety of different configurations. The leak check tool 120 generally has a corresponding sealing surface 124 corresponding sealing surface 124configured to seal against the perimetric sealing surface 162 when the leak check tool 120 and the breather assembly 100 are coupled to isolate all of the0444.011660W00100011660-W001 one or more environmental openings 112 from the outside environment 14. In embodiments consistent with the current example, the corresponding sealing surface 124 of the leak check tool 120 defines an annular recess that is configured to receive the sealing component 122. In some other embodiments, both the sealing component 122 and the mating surface 124 define an annular recess that is configured to receive the sealing component 122. In yet other embodiments the perimetric sealing surface defines an annual recess that is configured to receive the sealing component 122.Isolation Portion of Leak Check Tool

[0041] In various examples, the leak check tool 120 has an isolation portion 132 that is configured to isolate the environmental openings 112 of the assembly body 110 from the external environment 14. The isolation portion 132 has an insertion opening 182 that is configured to face towards the second axial end 104 of the assembly body 110. The corresponding sealing surface 124 surrounds the insertion opening 182. The insertion opening 182 leads to an isolation chamber 180. In some implementations, for example in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first end 102 of the assembly body 110 is inserted through the insertion opening 182 into the isolation chamber 180.

[0042] In the current example, the isolation portion 132 has an axial sidewall 133 extending in the axial direction from the corresponding sealing surface 124. The axial sidewall 133 surrounds the isolation chamber 180. At the end of the axial sidewall 133 opposite the corresponding sealing surface 124 is a lateral sidewall 135 extending laterally across the axial sidewall 133. The lateral sidewall extends across the isolation chamber 180. In various embodiments, including the current example, there are no openings in the isolation portion 132 except for the insertion opening 182. In various embodiments, there are no openings through the axial sidewall 133. In various embodiments, there are no openings through the lateral sidewall 135. The leak check tool 120 generally has a first tool end 121 and a second tool end 123. In some embodiments, the isolation chamber 132 lacks openings to the outside environment 14 from the corresponding sealing surface 124 to the first tool end 121. Alternate embodiments will also be described.

[0043] The environmental openings 112 of the assembly body 110 are configured to be disposed within the isolation chamber 180 when the leak check tool 120 is engaged with the assembly body 110. As such, the isolation portion 132 is configured to be sized to fit around the assembly body 110 so that the environmental openings0444.011660W00100011660-W001112 are disposed within the isolation chamber 180 of the isolation portion 132. In various embodiments, a lateral cross dimension of the isolation chamber is larger than a corresponding lateral cross dimension of the first end 102 of the assembly body 110. The lateral cross-dimension can be a diagonal or diameter measurement. In some embodiments, each of the lateral cross dimensions of the isolation chamber is larger than each of the lateral cross-dimensions of the assembly body 110 from the first end 102 of the assembly body to the perimetric sealing surface 162.Engagement Surface of Breather Assembly

[0044] Returning to the description of the breather assembly 100, the assembly body 110 has an engagement surface 164 (visible in FIGS. IB, 2, and 3). The engagement surface 164 is generally configured to engage a leak check tool. The engagement surface 164 is in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface 162. In particular, the engagement surface 164 can face the second axial end 104 of the assembly body 110. Such configuration can facilitate the sealable engagement between the leak check tool and the perimetric sealing surface 162 such as by creating a compression force between the leak check tool 520 and the breather assembly 100 at the perimetric sealing surface 162. The engagement surface 164 is spaced in the axial direction from the housing mating surface 160, such that there is a clearance which enables the leak check tool to come into engagement with the engagement surface 164 between the housing mating surface 160 and the engagement surface 164. In some embodiments the leak check tool and the breather assembly are configured such that the leak check tool comes into engagement with the breather assembly in a direction from the second end 104 towards the first end 102.

[0045] In some embodiments, the engagement surface 164 is defined by a plurality of surfaces spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway 12. For example, as is visible in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, there are at least two engagement surfaces 164 spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway 12. In some embodiments such as the current example in FIG. IB, FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the engagement surface 164 and the perimetric sealing surface 162 share a central axis x. In embodiments consistent with the current example, the engagement surface 164 is radially outward from the perimetric sealing surface 162.

[0046] In some embodiments, the engagement surface 164 is positioned between the perimetric sealing surface 162 and the first axial end 102. However, in other0444.011660W00100011660-W001 embodiments, the perimetric sealing surface 162 may be positioned between the engagement surface and second axial end. In yet other embodiments the perimetric sealing surface 162 is aligned in the axial direction with the engagement surface 164.

[0047] In some embodiments, the portion of the breather assembly 100 between the engagement surface 164 and the first axial end 102 is within an outer lateral boundary 168 of the engagement surfaces 164. Stated differently, the lateral cross dimension of the breather assembly 100 between the engagement surface 164 and the first axial end 102 is generally less than the corresponding cross-dimension of the inner boundary of the engagement surface. Such a configuration may advantageously accommodate translation of the leak check tool 120 over the first end 102 of the breather assembly 100 towards the second end 104 to be coupled to the engagement surface 164.Leak Check Tool Mounting Structure

[0048] The leak check tool 120 has a mounting structure 126. The mounting structure 126 is generally configured to disengageably engage the engagement surface 164. The engagement between the mounting structure 126 and engagement surface 164 is not particularly limited. In the current example, the engagement surface 164 and the mounting structure 126 form a bayonet style connection. In particular, the mounting structure 126 defines a bayonet connector, and the engagement surface 164 defines a mating bayonet connector that is configured to receive the bayonet connector. In particular, a bayonet receptacle is defined between the housing mating surface 160 and the engagement surface 164. The mounting structure 126 has a mounting surface 128 that is configured to abut the engagement surface 164 when the leak check tool 120 is coupled to the breather assembly 100. In the current example, the mounting surface 128 opposes the engagement surface 164.

[0049] In the current example, mounting structure 126 is defined by a second portion 134 of the leak check tool 120 that surrounds the isolation portion 132. The second portion 134 extends between the first tool end 121 and the second tool end 123. In the current example, the second portion 134 defines the second tool end 123. The second portion 134 is configured to be coupled to the engagement surface 164 of the assembly body 110 through the mounting structure 126. The second portion 134 is positioned radially outward from the isolation portion 132. In the current example, the mounting structure 126 extends radially inward from the second portion 134 towards0444.011660W00100011660-W001 the corresponding sealing surface 124. A radial gap is defined between the corresponding sealing surface 124 and the mounting structure 126 that is configured to receive the engagement surface 164.

[0050] In the current example, the isolation portion 132 and the second portion 134 are coupled via ribs 136. The ribs extend radially outward from the isolation portion 132 to the second portion 134. The structure of the ribs 136 is not limited. The ribs 136 could be any suitable shape and size. In some embodiments, the ribs 136 may be a solid structure. In some embodiments, the ribs 136 may include one or more openings. It is noted that other configurations of the leak check tool are contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, the leak check tool lacks a second portion 134 that is distinct from the isolation portion 132.

[0051] It is noted that other configurations to couple the leak check tool 120 and the breather assembly 100 are also contemplated. In some embodiments, coupling the mounting structure 126 and engagement surface 164 is through a snap fit. In some embodiments, the mounting structure 126 and engagement surface 164 are configured to couple via a threaded interface.

[0052] In the current example, when the leak check tool 120 is engaged with the assembly body 110, the mounting structure 126 and the engagement surface 164 define an interference fit. Since the isolation portion 132 connects with the second portion 134 by the ribs 136, the rotation of the isolation portion 132 will result in the same rotation of the second portion 134 and vice versa. For installation, the leak check tool 120 is translated in the axial direction over the first end 102 of the breather assembly 100 such that the environmental openings 112 are inserted into the isolation chamber 180 and the engagement surface(s) 164 are positioned between the isolation portion 132 and the second portion 134 in the radial direction. The leak check tool 120 is rotated to bring the mounting surface 128 into frictional engagement with the engagement surface 164. As a result, the corresponding sealing surface 124 presses against the perimetric sealing surface 162, such that a seal formed between the breather assembly 100 and the isolation portion 132. In this way, the assembly body 110 is isolated from the outside environment 14 and ready for a leak check process.

[0053] In various embodiments, the coupling features between the leak check tool 120 and the breather assembly 100 are configured to obstruct over-torquing of the breather assembly 100 relative to a housing that the breather assembly is configured0444.011660W00100011660-W001 to be coupled to. For example, an obstruction coupled to one or both of the leak check tool 120 and the breather assembly 100 can be positioned to obstruct rotation of the leak check tool 120 relative to the breather assembly 100 after the leak check tool 120 and the breather assembly 100 are fully coupled. In the current example, the bayonet connector may be configured to prevent over-torquing of the breather assembly 100 relative to the housing by limiting the degree of the rotation of the leak check tool 120 relative to the breather assembly 100. In some embodiments, the bayonet connector limits the rotation of the leak check tool 120 relative to the breather assembly 100 to 40 degrees or less. Such configuration may advantageously prevent over-torquing of the breather assembly 100 relative to the housing, where over-torquing the breather assembly relative to the housing may damage components of the coupling structure such as seals or threading.Breather Assembly Installation

[0054] In various embodiments, the breather assembly 100 is configured to be installed on a housing through the use of an installation tool. The installation tool is generally not a component of the breather assembly 100. Similar to the leak check tool, an installation tool can be used with a plurality of breather assemblies.

[0055] The breather assembly 100 generally defines features that are configured to be engaged by the installation tool. In the current example, the assembly body 110 includes a plurality of installation surfaces 166 (best visible in FIG. IB) extending radially outward. The installation surfaces 166 are configured to be engaged by an installation tool and receive an installation force from the installation tool during coupling of the breather assembly 100 to a housing. In the current example where the breather assembly 100 is installed on a housing via rotation, the installation surfaces 166 are configured to receive rotational force from the installation tool, which advances the threads of the breather assembly along the housing opening of the housing. In the current example, the installation surfaces 166 are positioned towards the first axial end 102, but other configurations are also possible. In the current example, the outer perimetric boundary of the installation surfaces 166 define the general shape of a hexagon in a lateral plane. It is noted that the installation surfaces can have alternate configurations. In some examples each installation surfaces can be defined by an indentation, a protrusion, or an extrusion defined by the assembly body.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0056] In the current example, the plurality of installation surfaces 166 define the engagement surface(s) 164. In this example, the installation surfaces form an outer lateral boundary of the first end 102 of the breather assembly 100.

[0057] In some implementations consistent with the current example, the installation tool can be an existing tool such as a wrench like a socket wrench. In some implementations the wrench can be positioned over the first end 102 of the assembly body 110 and particularly around the installation surfaces 166. In some implementations, the installation tool can be positioned laterally around a portion of the installation surfaces 166. After positioning the installation tool around the installation surfaces, the installation tool can be rotated to complete installation of the breather assembly 100 to the housing. In various implementations, the installation tool can incorporate features to limit the maximum torque applied to the breather assembly 100.

[0058] In some implementations, as is visible in FIGS. 2 and 3, the mounting structure 126 of the leak check tool 120 is configured to engage to the engagement surface 164 such that the plurality of installation surfaces 166 of the assembly body 110 is inserted in the axial direction between the isolation portion 132 and the second portion 134 of the leak check tool 120.

[0059] FIG. 4 depicts a cross-sectional view of another example system consistent with the present technology. FIG. 5 depicts an exploded view of an example system consistent with FIG. 4. Components herein are generally consistent with descriptions of corresponding components in the examples discussed above except where contrary to the current description or figure. Variations to components described herein can be consistent with examples above.

[0060] The system 20 has a breather assembly 200 and a leak check tool 220. The breather assembly 200 includes an assembly body 210. The breather assembly 200 is generally configured to be coupled to a housing. The housing is not particularly limited and can be consistent with that shown and described with reference to FIG. 1. When coupled to the housing, the assembly body 210 defines an airflow pathway 22 (FIG. 5) between the interior of the housing and an outside environment 24. The breather assembly 200 is generally configured to facilitate airflow between the interior of the breather assembly 200 and the outside environment 24. The breather assembly 200 is generally configured to facilitate airflow between the housing and the outside environment 24 when it is coupled to the housing.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0061] The breather assembly 200 has an assembly body 210. The assembly body 210 defines a first axial end 202 and a second axial end 204. The breather assembly 200 has an assembly opening 211 towards the second axial end 204. The assembly opening 211 is generally configured for direct fluid communication with an interior of the housing. The breather assembly 200 has one or more environmental openings 212. The airflow pathway 22 is between the assembly opening 211 and outside environment 24 through each of the one or more environmental openings 212. The environmental openings 212 are generally configured for direct fluid communication with the outside environment 24.

[0062] The assembly body 210 has a coupling structure 216. The coupling structure 216 is configured to couple to the housing. The coupling structure 216 has a housing mating surface 260 surrounding an airflow pathway 22 and facing the second axial end 204. The housing mating surface 260 is configured to create a seal between the assembly body 210 and the housing when the assembly body 210 is coupled to the housing. The housing mating surface 260 herein is generally consistent with descriptions of corresponding housing mating surface in the examples discussed above.

[0063] The assembly body 210 has a perimetric sealing surface 262. The perimetric sealing surface 262 laterally surrounds all of the one or more environmental openings 212. The perimetric sealing surface 262 faces the first axial end 202 and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings 212 and the second axial end 204. The perimetric sealing surface 262 is configured to form a seal with a corresponding sealing surface 224 of a leak check tool 220. In the current example, the breather assembly 200 has a circumferentially extending rim, where a first lateral surface of the rim facing the first axial end 202 is the perimetric sealing surface 262 and the opposite lateral surface of the rim (facing the second axial end 204) is the housing mating surface 260.

[0064] The assembly body 210 has an engagement surface 264 in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface 262. The engagement surface 264 is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface 260. The engagement surface 264 is generally configured to be engaged by the leak check tool 220. The engagement surface faces the second axial end 204 of the assembly body 210. In the current example, the assembly body 210 has a plurality of lugs 270 extending radially0444.011660W00100011660-W001 outward. Each lug 270 has a lateral surface facing the second axial end 204 that is an engagement surface 264.

[0065] In embodiments consistent with current example, the engagement surface 264 includes a plurality of engagement surfaces spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway 22. The engagement surface 264 and the perimetric sealing surface 262 share a central axis x. The engagement surface 264 is positioned between the perimetric sealing surface 262 and the first axial end 202.

[0066] During use, the breather assembly 200 is coupled to an enclosure of the housing. When coupled to the housing, the breather assembly 200 is configured to be used with the leak check tool 220 and facilitates checking for leakage from the breather assembly 200 and / or the housing to the outside environment. The general function of the leak check tool 220 herein is generally consistent with descriptions of the corresponding leak check tool in the examples discussed above.

[0067] The leak check tool 220 has a first tool end 221 and a second tool end 223. The leak check tool 220 has a mounting structure 226. The mounting structure 226 is configured to disengageably engage the engagement surface 264. The mounting structure 226 is defined by a bayonet receptacle 228 and the lug 270 is a bayonet that is received by the bayonet receptacle 228. The engagement surface 264 is frictionally engaged by the mounting structure 226 when the bayonet receptacle 228 receives the lug 270.

[0068] The leak check tool 220 has a corresponding sealing surface 224 that is configured to seal against the perimetric sealing surface 262 when the mounting structure 226 engages the engagement surface 264 to isolate each of the one or more environmental openings 212 from the outside environment 24. Unlike some previous examples, in the current example, the engagement surface 264 is radially inward from the perimetric sealing surface 262.

[0069] Unlike the previous examples described, in the current example, the leak check tool 220 has an isolation portion 232 that defines both the mounting structure 226 and the corresponding sealing surface 224. The isolation portion 232 is generally configured to block fluid flow communication between the breather assembly 200 and the outside environment 24. The isolation portion 232 is generally configured to facilitate the engagement of the leak check tool 220 on the assembly body 110. Unlike the previous example, the corresponding sealing surface 224 is radially outward from the mounting structure 226.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0070] The isolation portion 232 has an insertion opening 282 facing towards the second axial end 204 of the assembly body 210. The insertion opening 282 leads to an isolation chamber 280. In the current embodiment, the environmental openings 212 of the assembly body 210 are configured to be disposed within the isolation chamber 280 when the leak check tool 220 is engaged with the assembly body 210. The isolation portion 232 is configured to seal over the environmental openings 212. For example, the isolation portion 232 may be sized to fit around the assembly body 210 so that the environmental openings 212 are disposed within the interior 280 of the isolation portion 232. Further, the isolation portion 232 can include a sealing component 222 configured to seal the environmental openings 212 of the assembly body 210 to the housing. In embodiments consistent with the current example in FIG. 5, the sealing component 222 is a sealing ring contacting the perimetric sealing surface 262 of the assembly body 210 and the corresponding sealing surface 224 of the leak check tool 220. Accordingly, the isolation portion 232 of the leak check tool 220 isolates the environmental openings 212 of the assembly body 210 from the outside environment 24 when the leak check tool 220 is engaged with the assembly body 210. The sealing component 222 herein is generally consistent with descriptions of the corresponding sealing component in the examples discussed above.

[0071] Similar to examples described above, in the current example, the isolation portion 232 has an axial sidewall 233 extending in the axial direction from the corresponding sealing surface 224. The axial sidewall 233 surrounds the isolation chamber 280. At the end of the axial sidewall 233 opposite the corresponding sealing surface 224 is a lateral sidewall 235 extending laterally across the axial sidewall 233. The lateral sidewall extends across the isolation chamber 280.

[0072] In some embodiments consistent with FIG. 2 to 5, the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the corresponding sealing surface to the first tool end. In some other embodiments, for example in FIG. 6, a leak check tool 1220 has an opening to an outside environment. FIG. 6 depicts a cross-sectional view of yet another example system consistent with the present technology. The breather assembly 200 is the same or similar to the breather assemblies described above with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, and components herein are generally consistent with descriptions of corresponding components in the examples discussed above except where contrary to the current description or figure.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0073] A difference between FIG. 6 and FIG. 4 is that the leak check tool 1220 in FIG. 6 has a flow channel 1274 to the outside environment 34 from the isolation chamber 1280 through the first tool end 1202 to an outside environment. Various examples, with such a configuration the leak check tool 1220 has an attachment structure 1272 around the flow channel 1274. The attachment structure 1272 is configured to be coupled to a pressure or vacuum source such as through a hose fitting. The attachment structure 1272 can be helical threading, a bayonet connector, a circumferential rib, or the like, that facilitates a sealable connection with a pressure or vacuum source. When the attachment structure 1272 is connected to a pressure or vacuum source, the flow channel 1274 enables a fluid communication between the pressure source and the isolation chamber 1280. In such a configuration, a seal may be applied on or adjacent to the attachment structure to prevent any contamination or fluid leakage with the outside environment 34.

[0074] As mentioned above, in various embodiments, the coupling features between the leak check tool and the breather assembly can be configured to limit the amount of torque applied to the breather assembly. Such a configuration may advantageously limit over-torquing of the breather assembly relative to the housing to which the breather assembly is coupled. FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of an example leak check tool 220 consistent with FIGS. 4-5 and FIG. 6. In embodiments consistent with FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the leak check tool has the mounting structure 226. The mounting structure 226 is defined by a bayonet connector. The bayonet receptacle 228 particularly defines a channel opening 284 and a channel stop 286. The channel opening 284 is configured to receive the bayonet connector defining the corresponding engagement surface 264, which is the lug (270), as described above. The channel stop 286 extends radially inward from the channel opening 284. The channel stop 286 is configured to obstruct the rotation of the leak check tool 220 relative to the breather assembly 200 by obstructing translation of the lug (FIGS. 4-5) further along the bayonet receptacle 228. In embodiments consistent with the current example, the channel stop 286 is a ramped surface that extends radially inward from the channel opening 284. In some other embodiments, the channel stop 286 is a stepped surface.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0075] Referring again back to FIGS. 4-5, the assembly body 210 further has a radial installation surface 266. The installation surface 266 herein is generally consistent with descriptions of corresponding radial installation surfaces in the examples discussed above. In the current example, however, each radial installation surface 266 is defined by a lug 270.Installation Tool

[0076] FIG. 8 depicts a first perspective view of an example installation tool that can be used to install the breather assembly consistent with FIGS. 4-5. FIG. 9 is a second perspective view of the example installation tool consistent with FIG. 8. In some embodiments consistent with FIG. 4 to 5, a system 20 may include an installation tool 300 (visible in FIG. 8 and 9). The installation tool 300 is configured to install a breather assembly on a housing. The installation tool 300 has radial installation mating surface(s) 310 each configured to receive the radial installation surface(s) 266 of the breather assembly. In the current example, each radial installation mating surface 310 is a lug receptacle that is configured to receive a corresponding lug (270) of the breather assembly 200.

[0077] In the current example, a first axial end 302 of the installation tool 300 is configuration to be received by a device such as a socket wrench. Rotational force is translated from the device to the breather assembly through the lugs at the lug receptacles.Breather Component Configurations

[0078] In various embodiments, the breather assemblies consistent with the technology disclosed herein generally include one or more breather components disposed in the assembly body across the airflow pathway. The breather components used 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 other embodiments, a valve can be omitted. 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 the passage of some types of fluid and selectively allow the0444.011660W00100011660-W001 passage of other types of fluid. In yet other examples, a passive airflow vent can be omitted.

[0079] 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. A vent and a valve can be arranged in parallel. In some examples, a vent and a valve can be arranged in series. 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.

[0080] In examples consistent with FIG. 2 and 3, the breather assembly 100 has breather components including a valve 150 and a passive airflow vent 140 operationally parallel with the valve 150. The airflow pathway 12 is selectively obstructed by the valve 150, where the valve 150 is configured to relieve pressure when the pressure within the enclosure exceeds a minimum pressure differential relative to the environment outside of the enclosure. The valve 150 is generally configured to accommodate pressure release from an enclosure to which the breather assembly 100 is coupled. The valve 150 is generally configured to accommodate pressure release from the second axial end 104 to the first axial end 102 through the assembly body 110.

[0081] In the current example, the breather assembly defines a valve airflow pathway 151 is functionally parallel with a vent airflow pathway 141. The valve 150 is 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 to escape to the outside environment 14 when the environment inside the housing undergoes a relative pressure spike. Upon a pressure event inside the housing 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.

[0082] In the current example, the valve 150 includes a detent 152 that releasably engages the valve 150 relative to the breather assembly 100. A detent is defined0444.011660W00100011660-W001 herein as a mechanical or magnetic structure that secures a first part to a second part and releases the first part from the second part upon a particular release force being applied to the first part. In accordance with the technology disclosed herein, the “first part” is generally the valve 150, and the release force that is generally applied to the valve 150 is the pressure differential between an enclosure that the assembly is coupled to and the environment outside of the enclosure. The detent 152 can have a variety of configurations. In the current example, the detent 152 is a spring-loaded detent. A spring-loaded detent is a detent that employs a compression spring to secure the valve 150 to the breather assembly 100 and the spring force is overcome by the release force to release the valve 150 from the breather assembly 100. The shape and size of the detent 152 is not limited.

[0083] In the current example, the passive airflow vent 140 is disposed in the assembly body 110 across a portion of the airflow pathway 12. The passive airflow vent 140 allows passive airflow along a vent airflow pathway (the airflow pathway 12) 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 is configured to prevent liquids and particulates from passing through. When coupled to the housing and upon a high-pressure event inside the housing, the breather assembly 100 is configured to allow gases to escape the housing by bypassing the vent airflow pathway and the passive airflow vent 140.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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 some0444.011660W00100011660-W001 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.

[0086] The breather assembly 100 has a vent mounting surface on which the passive airflow vent 140 is mounted. 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 with adhesive to form a seal between the passive airflow vent 140 and the vent mounting surface. The passive airflow vent 140 can be coupled to the vent mounting surface 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. 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.

[0087] The breather components in FIG. 4 and 5 is different from the breather component in FIG. 2 and 3. In the current example, the breather assembly 200 has breather components including a valve 250 and a passive airflow vent 240 operationally parallel with the valve 250. The passive airflow vent 240 herein is generally consistent with descriptions of the corresponding passive airflow vent in the examples discussed above.

[0088] In this example the valve 250 is an umbrella valve. The valve 250 is generally configured to form a seal around the valve opening to allow gases to passively vent through the passive airflow vent 240 under normal pressure conditions and, upon a pressure spike within the enclosure of the housing above a threshold, the pressure displaces the valve 250 to unseal the valve opening and allow gas to bypass the passive airflow vent 240 and exit through the valve opening. In the current example, the valve 250 extends across a valve airflow pathway 251 to a sealing lip 254 in removable contact with a valve sealing surface 213 around the valve airflow pathway 251. The valve sealing surface 213 is defined circumferentially around the central axis x of the breather assembly 200. In the current example, the valve sealing surface 213 is defined by the assembly body 210. The sealing lip 254 forms a0444.011660W00100011660-W001 releasable seal with the assembly body 210 along the valve sealing surface 213. For example, upon a relatively high-pressure event within the enclosure of the housing, the sealing lip 254 is displaced from the valve sealing surface 213 to release pressure along the valve airflow pathway 251.Exemplary Aspects

[0089] Aspect 1. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body defining a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing, the coupling structure comprising a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end; a perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounding all of the one or more environmental openings, wherein the perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end; and an engagement surface in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface, wherein the engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface.

[0090] Aspect 2. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1 and 3-11, wherein the engagement surface comprises a plurality of engagement surfaces spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway.

[0091] Aspect 3. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-2 and 4-11, wherein the engagement surface and the perimetric sealing surface share a central axis.

[0092] Aspect 4. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-3 and 5-11, the assembly body further comprising a plurality of installation surfaces extending radially outward.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0093] Aspect 5. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-4 and 6-11, wherein a first portion of the breather assembly between the engagement surface and the first axial end is within an outer lateral boundary of the engagement surface.

[0094] Aspect 6. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-5 and 7-11, wherein all of the one or more environmental openings are within an inner lateral boundary of the perimetric sealing surface.

[0095] Aspect 7. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-6 and 8-11, wherein the engagement surface is positioned between the perimetric sealing surface and the first axial end.

[0096] Aspect 8. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-7 and 9-11, wherein the engagement surface is radially outward from the perimetric sealing surface.

[0097] Aspect 9. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-8 and 10-11, wherein the engagement surface is radially inward from the perimetric sealing surface.

[0098] Aspect 10. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-9 and 11, wherein the engagement surface comprises a bayonet connector.

[0099] Aspect 11. The breather assembly of any one of Aspects 1-10, further comprising one or more breather components disposed in the assembly body across the airflow pathway.

[0100] Aspect 12. A system comprising: a breather assembly comprising an assembly body defining a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing, the coupling structure comprising a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end; a perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounding all of the one or more environmental openings, wherein the perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end; and0444.011660W00100011660-W001 an engagement surface in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface, wherein the engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface; and a leak check tool comprising a mounting structure configured to disengageably engage the engagement surface, and a corresponding mating surface configured to seal against the perimetric sealing surface when the mounting structure engages the engagement surface to isolate each of the one or more environmental openings from the outside environment.

[0101] Aspect 13. The system of any one of Aspects 12 and 14-21, further comprising an installation tool, wherein the assembly body comprises a radial installation surface and the installation tool is configured to rotatably engage the radial installation surface to install the breather assembly onto the housing.

[0102] Aspect 14. The system of any one of Aspects 12-13 and 15-21, wherein the coupling structure comprises a helical thread configured to engage the housing.

[0103] Aspect 15. The system of any one of Aspects 12-14 and 16-21, wherein the leak check tool comprises an attachment structure and a flow channel extending through the attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure is configured to be coupled to a pressure source.

[0104] Aspect 16. The system of any one of Aspects 12-15 and 17-21, wherein the leak check tool has a first tool end and the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the corresponding mating surface to the first tool end.

[0105] Aspect 17. The system of any one of Aspects 12-16 and 18-21, wherein the mounting structure comprises a bayonet connector and the engagement surface comprises a mating bayonet connector.

[0106] Aspect 18. The system of any one of Aspects 12-17 and 19-21, wherein the bayonet connector limits rotation of the leak check tool relative to the breather assembly to 40 degrees or less.

[0107] Aspect 19. The system of any one of Aspects 12-18 and 20-21, wherein the bayonet connector defines a channel opening and a channel stop, wherein the channel stop extends radially inward from the channel opening.

[0108] Aspect 20. The system of any one of Aspects 12-19 and 21, wherein the channel stop is a ramped surface.

[0109] Aspect 21. The system of any one of Aspects 12-20, wherein the channel stop is a stepped surface.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0110] Aspect 22. A leak check tool comprising: an isolation portion having an isolation chamber and an insertion opening leading to the isolation chamber; a sealing surface surrounding the insertion opening towards a second tool end of the leak check tool; and a mounting surface opposing the sealing surface, wherein the mounting surface surrounds the isolation chamber and is configured to disengageably engage a breather assembly.

[0111] Aspect 23. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22 and 24-32, wherein the sealing surface surrounds the mounting surface.

[0112] Aspect 24. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-33 and 25-32, wherein the mounting surface surrounds the sealing surface.

[0113] Aspect 25. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-24 and 26-32, wherein the leak check tool comprises an attachment structure and a flow channel extending through the attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure is configured to be coupled to a pressure source.

[0114] Aspect 26. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-25 and 27-32, wherein the leak check tool has a first tool end and the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the sealing surface to the first tool end.

[0115] Aspect 27. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-26 and 28-32, wherein the mounting structure comprises a bayonet connector.

[0116] Aspect 28. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-27 and 29-32, wherein the bayonet connector limits rotation of the leak check tool to 40 degrees or less.

[0117] Aspect 29. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-28 and 30-32, wherein the bayonet connector defines a channel opening and a channel stop, wherein the channel stop extends radially inward from the channel opening.

[0118] Aspect 30. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-29 and 31-32, wherein the channel stop is a ramped surface.

[0119] Aspect 31. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-30 and 32, wherein the channel stop is a stepped surface.

[0120] Aspect 32. The leak check tool of any one of Aspects 22-31, further comprising a lateral sidewall and an axial sidewall surrounding the isolation chamber.0444.011660W00100011660-W001

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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%.

[0123] All publications and patent applications in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this technology pertains. All publications 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.

[0124] 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

0444.011660W00100011660-W001ClaimsWhat is claimed is:

1. A breather assembly comprising: an assembly body defining a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end, one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing, the coupling structure comprising a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end; a perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounding all of the one or more environmental openings, wherein the perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end; and an engagement surface in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface, wherein the engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface and the engagement surface is radially inward from the perimetric sealing surface.

2. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1 and 3-, wherein the engagement surface comprises a plurality of engagement surfaces spaced perimetrically around the airflow pathway.

3. The breather assembly of 1-2 and 8-9, wherein the engagement surface and the perimetric sealing surface share a central axis.

4. The breather assembly of 1-3 and 5-9, the assembly body further comprising a plurality of installation surfaces extending radially outward.

5. The breather assembly of 1-4 and 6-9, wherein a first portion of the breather assembly between the engagement surface and the first axial end is within an outer lateral boundary of the engagement surface.0444.011660W00100011660-W0016. The breather assembly of 1-5 and 7-9, wherein all of the one or more environmental openings are within an inner lateral boundary of the perimetric sealing surface.

7. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-6 and 8-9, wherein the engagement surface is positioned between the perimetric sealing surface and the first axial end.

8. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-7 and 9, wherein the engagement surface comprises a bayonet connector.

9. The breather assembly of any one of claims 1-8, further comprising one or more breather components disposed in the assembly body across the airflow pathway.

10. A system comprising: a breather assembly comprising an assembly body defining a first axial end and a second axial end, an assembly opening towards the second axial end and one or more environmental openings, and an airflow pathway between the assembly opening and an outside environment through the one or more environmental openings, wherein the assembly body comprises: a coupling structure configured to couple to a housing, the coupling structure comprising a housing mating surface surrounding the airflow pathway and facing the second axial end; a perimetric sealing surface laterally surrounding all of the one or more environmental openings, wherein the perimetric sealing surface faces the first axial end and is positioned between each of the one or more environmental openings and the second axial end; and an engagement surface in opposition to the perimetric sealing surface, wherein the engagement surface is spaced in an axial direction from the housing mating surface; and a leak check tool comprising a mounting structure configured to disengageably engage the engagement surface, and a corresponding mating surface configured to seal against the perimetric sealing surface when the mounting structure engages the0444.011660W00100011660-W001 engagement surface to isolate each of the one or more environmental openings from the outside environment.

11. A leak check tool comprising: an isolation portion having an isolation chamber and an insertion opening leading to the isolation chamber; a sealing surface surrounding the insertion opening towards a second tool end of the leak check tool; and a mounting surface opposing the sealing surface, wherein the mounting surface surrounds the isolation chamber and is configured to disengageably engage a breather assembly.

12. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11 and 13-20, wherein the sealing surface surrounds the mounting surface.

13. The leak check tool any one of claims 11-12 and 14-20, wherein the mounting surface surrounds the sealing surface.

14. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-13 and 15-20, wherein the leak check tool comprises an attachment structure and a flow channel extending through the attachment structure, wherein the attachment structure is configured to be coupled to a pressure source.

15. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-14 and 16-20, wherein the leak check tool has a first tool end and the leak check tool lacks openings to the outside environment from the sealing surface to the first tool end.

16. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-15 and 17-20, wherein the bayonet connector limits rotation of the leak check tool to 40 degrees or less.

17. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-16 and 18-20, wherein the bayonet connector defines a channel opening and a channel stop, wherein the channel stop extends radially inward from the channel opening.0444.011660W00100011660-W00118. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-17 and 19-20, wherein the channel stop is a ramped surface.

19. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-18 and 20, wherein the channel stop is a stepped surface.

20. The leak check tool of any one of claims 11-19, further comprising a lateral sidewall and an axial sidewall surrounding the isolation chamber.

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