Filter cartridge for an air cleaner assembly

The present disclosure relates to a filter configuration for use in filtering air. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a filter configuration having opposite flow ends. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to the use and installation of such filter configurations in serviceable air filter cartridges for use with air cleaners. The air cleaner configuration and how to assemble and use it are also described.

Air flow can be accompanied by pollutants. In many cases, it is desirable to filter some or all of the contaminants from the air stream. For example, the airflow towards the engine of an automatic vehicle or power generation equipment (eg, combustion airflow), the gasflow towards the gas turbine system and the airflow towards various combustion furnaces are accompanied by particulate contaminants that are filtered. In such systems, it is preferable to remove the selected contaminants from the air (or reduce the content level of the contaminants). Various air filter configurations have been developed to remove contaminants. Improvement is required.

The present disclosure provides features, components and techniques that can be used to provide filter assemblies such as air cleaner configurations. Many of the features relate to a pinch configuration with an axial sealing surface provided on the filter cartridge. A typical filter cartridge for use with such features is a filter cartridge that has opposing flow ends and the medium is arranged to filter the fluid flow in the direction between the opposing flow ends. Is. An example of a medium configuration that fits this characterization is described.

According to the present disclosure, the seal configuration comprises one or more axial housing seal engaging surfaces. The seal configuration typically has the advantage of having a change in surface contour shape. Such changes can typically be on the (outer) peripheral (or peripheral edge) surface and / or the housing axial seal engaging surface, eg, the pinch seal surface, or both. ..

The present disclosure also provides an air cleaner assembly with advantageous features. Further described is an air cleaner housing having selected suitable features for engaging with a filter cartridge.

In order to obtain any advantage of the present disclosure, it is not particularly required that the air cleaner assembly, components or features include all of the details featured herein. Thus, the particular examples featured are intended to be exemplary applications of the techniques described, and alternative applications are possible.

<figref num="1">FIG. 1 is a partial schematic perspective view showing a first example of the types of media that can be used in the configurations according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="2">FIG. 2 is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the type of medium shown in FIG.</figref><figref num="3">FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of definitions of various grooved media with respect to the types of media of FIGS. 1 and 2.</figref><figref num="4">FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing an example of a process for manufacturing the types of media of FIGS. 1 to 3.</figref><figref num="5">FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing optional end darts for the grooves of the types of media of FIGS. 1 to 4.</figref><figref num="6">FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a coiled filter configuration manufactured by the medium according to FIG. 1 and usable in the filter cartridge according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="7">FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view showing a laminated medium pack configuration manufactured by the medium according to FIG. 1 and used in the configuration according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="8">FIG. 8 is a schematic flow end view showing a filter medium pack that uses a medium that replaces the medium of FIG. 1 that can be used as an alternative medium in the filter cartridge according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="8A">FIG. 8A is a schematic flow end view facing FIG.</figref><figref num="8B">FIG. 8B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the media pack of FIGS. 8 and 8A.</figref><figref num="9">FIG. 9 is a schematic perspective view showing a first example of a filter cartridge incorporating the features according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="9A">FIG. 9A is another schematic perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG.</figref><figref num="10">FIG. 10 is a schematic unfolded perspective view of a housing configuration for forming the filter cartridge and air cleaner of FIGS. 9 and 9A shown in association with each other.</figref><figref num="10A">FIG. 10A is a schematic plan view of an air cleaner assembly using the principles according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="11">11 is a schematic longitudinal side view of the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="11A">FIG. 11A is an enlarged schematic view showing the identified portion of FIG.</figref><figref num="12">FIG. 12 is a schematic plan view showing the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="13">FIG. 13 is a narrow side or curved end end view showing the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="14">FIG. 14 is a schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="14A">FIG. 14A is an enlarged schematic partial view showing a part of FIG.</figref><figref num="15">FIG. 15 is a schematic long-dimensional cross-sectional view when viewed at a right angle to the figure of FIG.</figref><figref num="15A">FIG. 15A is an enlarged partial schematic showing a part of FIG.</figref><figref num="16">FIG. 16 is a second developed perspective view showing the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="16A">FIG. 16A is a perspective view showing the frame support components of the filter cartridge of FIG.</figref><figref num="17">FIG. 17 is a second developed view showing the filter cartridges of FIGS. 9 and 9A.</figref><figref num="18">FIG. 18 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view showing an air cleaner assembly with an air filter cartridge according to FIGS. 9 and 9A when incorporated into an assembly as shown in the developed view of FIG.</figref><figref num="18A">FIG. 18A is an enlarged schematic view showing the selected portion of FIG.</figref><figref num="18B">FIG. 18B is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view showing a portion of the cartridge similar to FIG. 15A in the assembly of FIG.</figref><figref num="18C">FIG. 18C is a schematic diagram of a configuration that replaces FIG. 18A.</figref><figref num="18D">FIG. 18D is a schematic diagram of a configuration that replaces FIG. 18B.</figref><figref num="19">FIG. 19 is a schematic side view showing a modification of the cartridge of FIG. 9A, which uses a similar seal configuration but is used in connection with the rectangular perimeter definition.</figref><figref num="20">FIG. 20 is a schematic plan view showing the cartridge of FIG.</figref><figref num="21">FIG. 21 is a schematic perspective view showing a third filter cartridge incorporating the principles of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="22">FIG. 22 is a developed perspective view showing the cartridge of FIG. 21.</figref><figref num="23">FIG. 23 is a plan view showing the cartridge of FIG. 21.</figref><figref num="24">FIG. 24 is a schematic side view showing the cartridge of FIG. 21.</figref><figref num="25">FIG. 25 is a schematic narrow end or curved end end view showing the cartridge of FIG.</figref><figref num="26">FIG. 26 is a schematic narrow-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the cartridge of FIG. 21.</figref><figref num="26A">FIG. 26A is an enlarged partial schematic showing a portion of the cartridge shown in FIG.</figref><figref num="27">FIG. 27 is a second developed perspective view showing the cartridge of FIG. 21.</figref><figref num="28">FIG. 28 is a schematic plan view showing another cartridge that is similar to FIG. 21 but embodies the seal configuration in the rectangular seal configuration and the media pack definition configuration.</figref><figref num="29">FIG. 29 is a schematic perspective view showing a fifth embodiment of the filter cartridge incorporating the selected principle according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="30">FIG. 30 is a schematic plan view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 29.</figref><figref num="31">FIG. 31 is a schematic side view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 29.</figref><figref num="32">FIG. 32 is a schematic narrow end or curved end end view of the cartridge shown in FIG.</figref><figref num="33">FIG. 33 is a schematic development view of the filter cartridge shown in FIG. 29.</figref><figref num="34">FIG. 34 is a schematic long-dimensional cross-sectional view of the cartridge shown in FIG. 29.</figref><figref num="35">FIG. 35 is an enlarged partial view showing the selected portion of FIG. 34.</figref><figref num="36">FIG. 36 is a schematic showing a sixth embodiment of a filter cartridge embodied in a configuration having a rectangular periphery with respect to the seal member and the medium pack, although the cartridge has a seal configuration similar to the seal configuration of FIG. It is a plan view.</figref><figref num="37">FIG. 37 is a schematic perspective view showing a seventh embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="38">FIG. 38 is a schematic plan view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 37.</figref><figref num="39">FIG. 39 is a schematic side view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 37.</figref><figref num="40">FIG. 40 is a schematic narrow end or curved end end view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 39.</figref><figref num="41">FIG. 41 is a developed perspective view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 39.</figref><figref num="42">FIG. 42 is a schematic long-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 39.</figref><figref num="43">FIG. 43 is an enlarged partial view showing the selected portion of FIG. 42.</figref><figref num="44">FIG. 44 is a schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 39.</figref><figref num="44A">FIG. 44A is an enlarged partial view showing the identified portion of FIG. 44.</figref><figref num="45">45 is a schematic plan view showing another embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the present disclosure, wherein the embodiment includes a seal configuration having features similar to the configuration of FIG. 39, but with a seal configuration and a medium pack. Is shown in one embodiment of a substantially rectangular perimeter.</figref><figref num="46A">FIG. 46A is a schematic unfolded partial view showing the engagement between a portion of the filter cartridge and a portion of the housing according to FIG.</figref><figref num="46B">FIG. 46B is a second schematic unfolded partial view showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 9 that moves to engage a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="47A">FIG. 47A is a schematic unfolded partial view showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 21 that engages a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="47B">FIG. 47B is a second unfolded schematic partial view showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 21 that engages a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="48A">FIG. 48A is a schematic unfolded portion showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 29 that engages a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="48B">FIG. 48B is a schematic second unfolded portion showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 29 that engages a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="49A">FIG. 49A is a schematic unfolded portion showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 39 that engages a portion of the housing.</figref><figref num="49B">FIG. 49B is a second schematic partial development showing a portion of the cartridge according to FIG. 39 that engages the housing.</figref><figref num="50">FIG. 50 is a schematic perspective view showing another air cleaner assembly according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="51">FIG. 51 is a schematic unfolded perspective view showing the air cleaner assembly of FIG.</figref><figref num="51a">FIG. 51a is a second unfolded perspective view showing the air cleaner assembly of FIG. 50.</figref><figref num="51b">FIG. 51b is an enlarged schematic perspective view of the identified portion of the air cleaner housing portion of FIG. 51, which is partially cut to show details.</figref><figref num="52">FIG. 52 is a schematic plan view showing the assemblies of FIGS. 50 and 51.</figref><figref num="53">FIG. 53 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the air cleaner assembly of FIG. 50 approximately along lines 53-53 of FIG. 52.</figref><figref num="53a">FIG. 53a is a schematic cross-sectional view of the enlarged portion showing the identified portion of FIG. 53.</figref><figref num="54">FIG. 54 is a second schematic cross-sectional view showing the air cleaner assembly of FIGS. 50 and 51 substantially along lines 54-54 of FIG. 52.</figref><figref num="54a">FIG. 54a is a schematic cross-sectional view of the enlarged portion showing the identified portion of FIG. 54.</figref><figref num="54b">FIG. 54b is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged portion showing a second identified portion of FIG. 54.</figref><figref num="54c">FIG. 54c is a schematic cross-sectional view of the enlarged portion showing the identified portion of FIG. 34a.</figref><figref num="55">FIG. 55 is a schematic bottom view showing the air cleaner assemblies of FIGS. 50 and 51.</figref><figref num="56">FIG. 56 is a schematic plan view showing the housing base or bottom portion of the air cleaner assembly of FIGS. 50 and 51.</figref><figref num="57">FIG. 57 is a schematic enlarged perspective view showing the filter cartridges that can be used in the assemblies of FIGS. 50 and 51.</figref><figref num="57a">FIG. 57a is a schematic long-dimensional cross-sectional view of FIG. 57 substantially along the lines 57a-57a of FIG. 58.</figref><figref num="57b">FIG. 57b is a schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view substantially along the line 57b-57b of FIG.</figref><figref num="57c">FIG. 57c is a schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the cartridge of FIG. 57 substantially along line 57c-57c of FIG. 58.</figref><figref num="57d">FIG. 57d is an enlarged schematic view showing the identified portion of FIG. 57c.</figref><figref num="58">FIG. 58 is a plan view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.</figref><figref num="59">FIG. 59 is a schematic side view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57, with respect to the particular cartridge shown in FIG. 57, the opposite side view would be the same overall appearance.</figref><figref num="60">FIG. 60 is a schematic end-view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57, and for the particular cartridge shown in FIG. 57, the end-view on the opposite side of FIG. 60 would be approximately identical.</figref><figref num="61">FIG. 61 is a schematic bottom view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.</figref><figref num="62">FIG. 62 is a first schematic development perspective view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.</figref><figref num="62a">FIG. 62a is a second schematic unfolded perspective view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 57.</figref><figref num="62b">FIG. 62b is a schematic plan view of the shell components shown in the exploded view of FIG. 62.</figref><figref num="62c">FIG. 62c is a schematic side view of the shell components shown in FIG. 62b.</figref><figref num="62d">FIG. 62d is a schematic end-view of the shell components shown in FIG. 62b.</figref><figref num="62e">FIG. 62e is a schematic side view of the handle components shown in FIG.</figref><figref num="62f">FIG. 62f is a schematic plan view of the handle components shown in FIG. 62e.</figref><figref num="62g">FIG. 62g is a schematic end-view of the handle components shown in FIG. 62e.</figref><figref num="62h">FIG. 62h is a schematic plan view showing the medium configuration used in the cartridge of FIG. 62.</figref><figref num="62i">FIG. 62i is a schematic side view showing the medium components of FIG. 62h.</figref><figref num="63">FIG. 63 is a schematic development view showing yet another air cleaner assembly according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="64">FIG. 64 is a first schematic long-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the air cleaner assembly of FIG.</figref><figref num="65">FIG. 65 is a second schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view showing the assembly of FIG. 63.</figref><figref num="65a">FIG. 65a is an enlarged partial view showing the identified portion of FIG. 65.</figref><figref num="65b">FIG. 65b is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged portion showing a second identified portion of FIG. 65.</figref><figref num="66">FIG. 66 is a schematic perspective view showing the filter cartridge used in the assembly of FIG. 63.</figref><figref num="67">FIG. 67 is a schematic side view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 66, where the cartridge of the particular example of FIG. 66 would be such that the opposite side view would have a similar appearance.</figref><figref num="68">FIG. 68 is a schematic short-dimensional cross-sectional view substantially along lines 68-68 of FIG.</figref><figref num="68a">FIG. 68a is a schematic enlarged partial view showing the first identified portion of FIG. 68.</figref><figref num="68b">FIG. 68b is a schematic enlarged partial view showing the second identified portion of FIG. 68.</figref><figref num="69">FIG. 69 is a schematic plan view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 66.</figref><figref num="69a">FIG. 69a is a schematic development perspective view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 66.</figref><figref num="70">FIG. 70 is a schematic perspective view showing a seal support member of the filter cartridge of FIG. 66.</figref><figref num="71">FIG. 71 is a schematic plan view showing the seal support member of FIG. 70.</figref><figref num="72">72 is a schematic side view showing the seal support members of FIGS. 70 and 71.</figref><figref num="73">FIG. 73 is a schematic perspective view showing the sealing member components of the filter cartridge of FIG. 66.</figref><figref num="74">FIG. 74 is a schematic plan view showing the seal member component of FIG. 73.</figref><figref num="75">FIG. 75 is a schematic side view showing the seal member component of FIG. 73.</figref><figref num="76">FIG. 76 is a schematic plan view showing the medium components of the filter cartridge of FIG. 66.</figref><figref num="77">FIG. 77 is a schematic side view showing the medium components of FIG. 76.</figref><figref num="78">FIG. 78 is a schematic perspective view showing yet another filter cartridge component according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="79">FIG. 79 is a schematic end view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 78.</figref><figref num="80">FIG. 80 is a schematic side view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 78 when viewed toward the side opposite to the side seen in FIG. 78.</figref><figref num="80a">FIG. 80a is an enlarged schematic view showing the identified portion of FIG. 80.</figref><figref num="81">FIG. 81 is a schematic plan view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 78.</figref><figref num="81a">FIG. 81a is an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view showing a selected portion of the filter cartridge of FIG. 80 approximately along lines 81-81 of FIG. 81.</figref><figref num="82">FIG. 82 is a schematic perspective view showing a further embodiment of the filter cartridge according to the present disclosure.</figref><figref num="83">FIG. 83 is a schematic end view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 82.</figref><figref num="84">FIG. 84 is a schematic plan view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 82.</figref><figref num="85">FIG. 85 is a schematic side view showing the filter cartridge of FIG. 82.</figref>

I. Examples of media configurations, general A. Medium pack configuration that has a medium ridge (groove) and uses a filter medium fixed to a facing medium Grooved filter media (mediums with media crests) can be used to provide fluid filter configurations in a variety of embodiments. One well-known aspect is characterized as a z-filter configuration. As used herein, the term "z-filter configuration" defines a set of inlet and outlet filter grooves that are longitudinally, typically parallel to, the flow of fluid through the medium. The fluid is intended to represent a type of filter configuration in which the individual grooves of the filter groove are corrugated, folded or otherwise formed in order to represent the opposite inlet flow of the medium. It flows along the length of the groove between the end (or flow surface) and the outlet flow end (or flow surface). Some examples of z-filter media are all incorporated herein by reference in US Pat. Nos. 5,820,646, 5,772,883, 5,902,364, 5,792,247, 5,895,574, 6,210,469. No. 6,190,432, No. 6,350,296, No. 6,179,890, No. 6,235,195, Des. 399,944, Des. 428,128, Des. 396,098, Des. 398,046 and Des 437,401 It is provided in the issue.

One type of z-filter medium utilizes two specific medium components that are joined together to form a medium composition. The two components are (1) a grooved (typically corrugated) medium sheet and (2) a face-to-face medium sheet. Face-to-face media sheets are typically not corrugated, but were filed, for example, on February 11, 2004, incorporated herein by reference, and published as International Publication No. WO 05/077487 on August 25, 2005. It is possible to have a waveform perpendicular to the direction of the groove as described in US Patent Application No. 60 / 543,804.

Grooved (typically corrugated) and face-to-face media sheets are used to define media with parallel inlet and outlet grooves. In some cases, the grooved sheet and the facing sheet are fixed to each other and then coiled to form a z-filter medium configuration. Such configurations are described, for example, in US Pat. Nos. 6,235,195 and 6,179,890, respectively, which are incorporated herein by reference. In other particular configurations, several non-coiled or non-coiled pieces of a grooved (typically corrugated) medium fixed to a facing medium are stacked on top of each other to form a filter configuration. An example of this is illustrated in FIG. 11 of US Pat. No. 5,820,646, which is incorporated herein by reference.

In the present specification, the material pieces constituting the grooved sheet (sheet of the medium having ridges) fixed to the corrugated sheet and then assembled as a stack to form a medium pack are "single facer piece" and "single sided". Sometimes referred to as a "single" or "single facer" medium or a "single sided" medium. These terms and their variants are intended to mean that one side of a grooved (typically corrugated) sheet, i.e. one side, faces the facing sheet in each piece.

Typically, the task of coiling a piece of a grooved sheet / facing sheet (ie, single facer) combination to form a coiled medium pack is performed with the facing sheet facing outwards. Some of the coiling techniques are incorporated herein by reference in US Patent Application No. 60 / 467,521 filed May 2, 2003 and filed March 17, 2004, and are currently Is explained in US Patent Application No. 04/07927, published as International Publication No. WO 04/082795. The coiled configuration thus formed thus generally has a portion of the facing sheet as the outer surface of the medium pack.

As used herein to describe the structure of a medium, the term "corrugation" means passing the medium between two corrugated rollers, each of which has surface features suitable for corrugating the formed medium. It is intended to represent a groove structure formed by, i.e., through a nip or mesh between two rollers. The term "corrugated" is not intended to describe a groove formed by a technique that does not involve passing a medium through the mesh between the corrugated rollers. However, the term "waveform" is used after the formation of the waveform, for example, due to the folding technique described in WO 04/007054, published January 22, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference. It is intended to be applied even when it is transformed.

The corrugated medium is a particular form of grooved medium. Grooved media are media in which individual grooves or peaks (eg, by corrugation or folding) extend throughout.

z Maintenance-inspectable filter elements or filter cartridge configurations that utilize filter media may be referred to as "straight-line flow configurations" or in a modified term. In general, the term means in this context that a serviceable filter element or cartridge has an inlet flow end (or face) and an outlet flow end (or face) facing each other and the flows are approximately identical. It means that it flows into the filter cartridge in the linear direction of the above and flows out from the filter cartridge. In this regard, the term "maintenable" is intended to refer to a filter cartridge containing a medium that is periodically removed and replaced from a corresponding fluid cleaner (eg, an air cleaner). In some cases, the inlet flow end (or surface) and the outlet flow end (or surface) are each approximately flat or planar, and the two are parallel to each other. However, deformations of this, such as non-flat surfaces, are also possible.

The linear flow configuration (especially in the case of coiled or laminated media packs) is the type of configuration shown in US Pat. No. 6,039,778, which is incorporated herein by reference, for example, where the flow is in the medium. This is in contrast to serviceable filter cartridges, such as cylindrical fold filter cartridges, which generally produce substantial rotation when entering and exiting. That is, in the case of the filter of No. 6,039,778, the flow enters the cylindrical filter cartridge through the cylindrical side surface and then rotates and flows out through the open end of the medium (forward flow system). In a typical backflow system, the flow enters a serviceable cylindrical cartridge through the open end of the medium and then rotates and exits through the sides of the cylindrical filter medium. An example of such a backflow system is shown in US Pat. No. 5,613,992, which is incorporated herein by reference.

As used herein, the term "z-filter medium configuration" and its variants are (face-to-face) media with proper sealing so that the inlet and outlet grooves can be defined without further indication. A media pack and / or formed as a three-dimensional network of inlet and outlet grooves from a web of corrugated media or other grooved media (mediums with media crests) and / or such media. It is intended to represent any or all of the filter cartridges or filter configurations that include such medium packs.

FIG. 1 shows an example of medium 1 that can be used in the z-filter medium configuration. The medium 1 is grooved, in this case formed from a corrugated sheet 3 and a facing sheet 4. A configuration such as medium 1 is referred to herein as a single facer piece or single-sided piece.

Generally, the corrugated grooved or peak-forming sheet 3 of FIG. 1 is a type of sheet characterized herein as having a regular curved wavy pattern of grooves, peaks or corrugated configuration 7. In this regard, the term "wavy pattern" is intended to describe a groove, peak or corrugated pattern consisting of alternating valleys 7b and peaks a. In this regard, the term "regular" means that pairs of valleys and peaks (7b, 7a) are alternately arranged in the shape and size of repetitive waveforms (grooves or peaks) that are approximately the same. Is intended to represent. (Also, typically in a regular configuration, each valley 7b is a nearly inverted uplift of each peak 7a.) Therefore, the term "regular" means that the corrugated (or groove) pattern Valleys (reversal of ridges) and peaks that repeat each pair (including adjacent valleys and peaks) along at least 70% of the groove length without substantially changing the size and shape of the waveform. Is intended to indicate that In this regard, the term "substantial" is not a slight change caused by the flexibility of the medium sheet 3, but a change in the process or mold used to produce the corrugated or grooved sheet. Intended to represent changes resulting from. With respect to the characteristics of the iterative pattern, this does not mean that the same number of peaks and valleys must be present in a given filter configuration. For example, medium 1 could be terminated between a pair containing peaks and valleys, or along a portion of a pair containing peaks and valleys. (For example, the medium 1 shown in the partial view in FIG. 1 has eight complete peaks 7a and seven complete valleys 7b.) Also, the opposite groove ends (valley and peak ends) are They may be different from each other. Such end deformations are ignored in the above definition unless otherwise specified. That is, the deformation of the end of the groove is intended to be included in the above definition.

Corrugated "curvature" The term "curved" in relation to the characterization of the wavy pattern is not the result of a fold or crease shape given to the medium, but the apex 7a of each peak and the bottom 7b of each valley are curved. It is intended to represent a waveform pattern formed along a radius. The typical radius of such a z-filter medium is at least 0.25 mm, typically 3 mm or less.

An additional feature of the particular regular curved wavy pattern shown in FIG. 1 with respect to corrugated sheet 3 is approximately halfway between each valley and its adjacent peaks along most of the length of groove 7. The transition region where the curvature is inverted is arranged at the point 30. For example, looking at the back side or the back side 3a of FIG. 1, the valley portion 7b is a concave region, and the mountain portion 7a is a convex region. When viewed toward the front side or the front surface 3b, the valley portion 7b of the surface 3a naturally forms a mountain portion, and the mountain portion 7a of the surface 3a forms a valley portion. (In some cases, region 30 can be a linear segment rather than a point, and the curvature is inverted at the end of segment 30.) One feature of the particular regular wavy pattern grooved (in this case corrugated) sheet 3 shown in FIG. 1 is that the individual corrugations, peaks or grooves are approximately linear. In this regard, the term "straight" is at least 70%, typically at least 80%, of the length between edges 8 and 9, with peaks 7a and valleys (or reversals of ridges). It means that 7b hardly changes in the cross section. The term "linear" in relation to the waveform pattern shown in Figure 1 is incorporated herein by reference in Figure 1 of WO 97/40918 and published June 12, 2003. It is partially different from the pattern of gradually narrowing grooves in the corrugated medium described in WO 03/47722. For example, the tapering groove in FIG. 1 of WO 97/40918 is a curved wavy pattern, but a "regular" pattern, i.e. a linear groove pattern as used herein. Wouldn't be.

Referring to FIG. 1, as described above, the medium 1 has a first edge 8 and a second edge 9 facing each other. When the medium 1 is formed as a medium pack, the edge 9 generally forms the inlet end or surface of the medium pack and the edge 8 forms the exit end or surface, but the opposite orientation is also possible.

Adjacent to the edge portion 8, a sealing material bead 10 for integrally sealing the corrugated sheet 3 and the facing sheet 4 is provided. Since the bead 10 is a bead between the corrugated sheet 3 and the facing sheet 4 forming the single facer (single-sided) medium piece 1, it is sometimes called a "single-faced" bead or a "single-sided" bead. The sealing material bead 10 seals the groove 11 so as to block the flow of air from the closed individual groove 11 adjacent to the edge 8 (or the flow of air toward the groove 11 in the reverse flow).

A seal bead 14 is provided adjacent to the edge 9. The seal bead 14 substantially closes the groove 15 adjacent to the edge 9 so that the unfiltered fluid does not flow out of the groove 15 (or the fluid does not flow in the opposite direction). Bead 14 will typically be applied when medium 1 is configured as a medium pack. When the medium pack is manufactured from a stack of pieces 1, the beads 14 form a seal between the back surface 17 of the facing sheet 4 and the surface 18 of the next adjacent corrugated sheet 3. A bead 14 is called a "stacked bead" when the medium 1 is cut into pieces and stacked instead of being coiled. (If the bead 14 is used in a coiled configuration formed from a long medium piece 1, the bead may be referred to as a "wrap bead".) With reference to FIG. 1, after the filter medium 1 is incorporated into the medium pack, for example by stacking or winding in a coil, the filter medium 1 can operate as follows. First, air in the direction of arrow 12 will flow into the open groove 11 adjacent to the end 9. Since the end 8 is closed by the bead 10, air will pass through the filter medium 1 as indicated by, for example, arrow 13. Air could then flow out of the medium or medium pack by passing through the open end 15a of the groove 15 adjacent to the end 8 of the medium pack. It is natural that the operation can be performed by the air flow in the opposite direction.

For the particular configuration shown in FIG. 1, the parallel waveform configurations 7a, 7b are substantially linear over the entire medium from edge 8 to edge 9. Linear grooves, peaks or corrugated configurations can be deformed or folded at selected positions, especially at the edges. Changes to close the groove ends are largely ignored in the definitions of "regular", "curved" and "wavy pattern" given above.

A z-filter configuration that does not utilize a linear regular curved wavy pattern waveform shape is known. For example, Yamada et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,562,825 provides a corrugated pattern utilizing a slightly semi-circular (in cross section) inlet groove adjacent to a narrow V-shaped (curved side) exit groove (No. 5,562,825). See Figures 1 and 3 of the Gazette). Matsumoto et al., US Pat. No. 5,049,326, show circular (in cross section) or tubular grooves formed by a sheet with a tube half attached to another sheet with a tube half. There is a flat region between the parallel linear grooves that are formed (see Figure 2 of Matsumoto's '326). Ishii et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,925,561 (Fig. 1) show grooves folded to have a rectangular cross section, the grooves having a shape that gradually narrows along the length. WO 97/40918 (Fig. 1) has a curved wavy pattern (consisting of adjacent curved convex and concave valleys), but gradually tapers along the length (and thus straight lines). Grooves (not shaped) or parallel corrugated shapes are shown. In addition, International Publication No. WO 97/40918 has a curved wavy pattern, but shows grooves with different sizes of peaks and valleys. Further, grooves modified to include various peaks are also known.

Filter media are generally relatively flexible materials, typically containing resins, and in some cases non-woven fiber materials (cellulose fibers and / or synthetic fibers) treated with additional materials. Consists of). Thus, the medium material can be adapted or constructed for various corrugated patterns without causing unacceptable damage to the medium. Similarly, the medium material can be easily coiled or constructed in other ways without causing unacceptable damage to the medium. It goes without saying that the medium material must be of a nature that maintains the required waveform composition during use.

In the corrugation process, inelastic deformation usually occurs in the medium. This prevents the medium from returning to its original shape. However, when the tension is released, the groove or corrugated structure tries to return by elasticity and recovers only a part of the stretching and bending that has occurred. The face-to-face medium sheet is, in some cases, temporarily fastened to the grooved medium sheet in order to suppress this elastic restoration in the corrugated sheet. Such temporary fastening is indicated by 20.

Also, the medium usually contains a resin. During the corrugation process, the medium can be heated to temperatures above the glass transition temperature of the resin. After that, when the resin is cooled, the resin easily maintains the grooved shape.

The corrugated (grooved) sheet 3 and / or face-to-face sheet 4 can be provided with a fine fibrous material on one or both sides thereof, for example in accordance with US Pat. No. 6,673,136, which is incorporated herein by reference. .. When such fine fiber materials are used, it may be desirable to provide fine fibers on the upstream side of the material and inside the grooves. In this way, during filtration the air flow typically goes into the edges containing the stacked beads.

Problems with z-filter configurations relate to the closure of individual groove ends. A sealant or adhesive is typically provided to achieve this closure, but alternative configurations are possible. As is clear from the above description, the upstream end of a typical z-filter medium, especially a z-filter medium that uses a linear groove rather than a gradually narrowing groove and uses a sealant as the groove seal. A large sealing material surface area (and volume) is required at both the portion and the downstream end. High quality seals in those positions are important for the proper operation of the medium configuration. The large volume and area of the sealant causes problems in this regard.

Next, focusing on FIG. 2, a regular curved wavy pattern corrugated sheet 43 and a non-corrugated flat sheet 44, that is, a z-filter medium utilizing a single facer piece, that is, a z-filter medium configuration 40 is schematically shown. The distance D1 between points 50 and 51 defines the extension distance of the flat medium 44 in the region 52 below the predetermined corrugated groove 53. The length D2 of the arcuate medium of the corrugated groove 53 over the same distance D1 is naturally longer than the distance D1 due to the shape of the corrugated groove 53. For a typical regularly shaped medium used in grooved filter applications, the linear length D2 of the medium 53 between points 50 and 51 is often at least 1.2 times D1. .. Typically, D2 will be in the range of 1.2 times or more and 2.0 times or less of D1. One particularly convenient configuration of the air filter has a configuration in which D2 is approximately 1.25 to 1.35 times D1. Such media are, for example, Donaldson Used as a commercial product in the Powercore® Z filter configuration. Another convenient size would be that D2 is about 1.4 to 1.6 times larger than D1. The D2 / D1 ratio may be characterized as a groove / flatness ratio or medium stretch with respect to the corrugated medium.

In the field of corrugated cardboard, various standard grooves are defined. For example, there are standard E-grooves, standard X-grooves, standard B-grooves, standard C-grooves and standard A-grooves. Figure 3, combined with Table A below, provides definitions for those grooves.

The assignee of this disclosure, Donaldson Company, Inc. (DCI), has used standard A-groove and standard B-groove variants in a variety of z-filter configurations. These grooves are also defined in Table A and Figure 3.

Table A (Definition of groove with respect to Fig. 3) DCI A Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.52: 1; Radius (R) is: R1000 = 0.0675 inches (1.715 mm); R1001 = 0.0581 inches (1.476 mm); R1002 = 0.0575 inches (1.461 mm); R1003 = 0.0681 inches (1.730 mm); DCI B Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.32: 1; Radius (R) is: R1004 = 0.0600 inches (1.524 mm); R1005 = 0.0520 inches (1.321 mm); R1006 = 0.0500 inches (1.270 mm); R1007 = 0.0620 inches (1.575 mm); Standard E-groove: Groove / Flat = 1.24: 1; Radius (R) is: R1008 = 0.0200 inches (.508 mm); R1009 = 0.0300 inches (.762 mm); R1010 = 0.0100 inch (.254 mm); R1011 = 0.0400 inch (1.016 mm); Standard X Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.29: 1; Radius (R) is: R1012 = 0.0250 inch (.635 mm); R1013 = 0.0150 inch (.381 mm); Standard B Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.29: 1; Radius (R) is: R1014 = 0.0410 inches (1.041 mm); R1015 = 0.0310 inches (.7874 mm); R1016 = 0.0310 inches (.7874 mm); Standard C Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.46: 1; Radius (R) is: R1017 = 0.0720 inches (1.829 mm); R1018 = 0.0620 inches (1.575 mm); Standard A Groove: Groove / Flat = 1.53: 1; Radius (R) is: R1019 = 0.0720 inches (1.829 mm); R1020 = 0.0620 inches (1.575 mm).

Other standard groove definitions by the corrugated box industry are, of course, known.

In general, standard groove configurations by the corrugated box industry can be used to define the corrugated or approximate corrugated shape of a corrugated medium. Comparisons between DCI A-grooves and DCI B-grooves and between standard A-grooves and standard B-grooves in the corrugated board industry show some favorable variants.

U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 215,718, filed on June 26, 2008 and published as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0127211, filed on February 4, 2008, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008 / An alternative groove definition as characterized by U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 012,785 published as Gazette 0282890 and / or U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 537,069 published as U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0032365. It can be used with the features of the air cleaner as shown below. The complete disclosures of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2009/0127211, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0282890, and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0032365 are incorporated herein by reference.

B. Manufacture of media pack configurations including the media of Figures 1 to 3, see Figures 4 to 7. FIG. 4 shows an example of a manufacturing process for manufacturing a medium piece (single facer) corresponding to the piece 1 of FIG. Generally, in order to form the medium web 69, the grooved (corrugated) sheet 66 having the facing sheet 64 and the groove 68 is integrally joined with an adhesive bead indicated by 70 sandwiched between the sheets. The adhesive bead 70 forms the single facer bead 10 of FIG. An optional darting process is performed at station 71 to form a central darts portion 72 located in the center of the web. To form the two pieces 76, 77 of the z-filter medium 74, the z-filter medium or z-medium piece 74 can be cut or cut at position 75 along the bead 70, each piece. Has an edge with a piece of sealing material (single face bead) extending between the corrugated sheet and the facing sheet. If the optional darting process is used, it is not surprising that the edges with the sealing piece (single face bead) will also have a series of darted grooves at this position.

Techniques for performing the steps featured with respect to FIG. 4 are described in WO 04/007054, published January 22, 2004, incorporated herein by reference.

Further referring to FIG. 4, the z-filter medium must be shaped before the z-filter medium 74 passes through the darts station 71 and is finally detached at position 75. In the schematic shown in FIG. 4, this is done by passing a sheet 92 of the filter medium between a pair of corrugated rollers 94, 95. In the schematic shown in FIG. 4, the sheet 92 of the filter medium is unwound from the roll 96 wound around the tension roller 98 and then passed through the nip or mesh 102 between the corrugated rollers 94, 95. The corrugated rollers 94, 95 have teeth 104 that give the desired corrugated shape after the flat sheet 92 has passed through the nip 102. After passing through the nip 102, the sheet 92 is corrugated laterally with respect to the machine direction to form a corrugated sheet as shown by 66. After that, the corrugated sheet 66 is fixed to the facing sheet 64. (The corrugation step may include heating the medium in some cases.) Further referring to FIG. 4, the process also shows that the face-to-face sheet 64 is guided to the darting process station 71. The face-to-face sheet 64 is shown as being stored as roll 106 and fed to corrugated sheet 66 to form the Z medium 74. The corrugated sheet 66 and the facing sheet 64 will typically be fixed to each other by adhesive or other means (eg, ultrasonic welding).

With reference to FIG. 4, the adhesive line 70 used to secure the corrugated sheet 66 and the facing sheet 64 to each other is shown as a sealant bead. Alternatively, a sealant bead for forming a face-to-face bead could be applied, as shown as 70a. If the sealant is applied, such as 70a, it may be desirable to provide a gap in the corrugated rollers 95, preferably both corrugated rollers 94, 95, to accommodate the bead 70a.

It goes without saying that the device of FIG. 4 can be modified to provide the tack bead 20 of FIG. 1 if desired.

The type of waveform given to the corrugated medium is a matter of which one to select and is determined by the corrugations or corrugated teeth of the corrugating rollers 94, 95. One of the useful waveform patterns is a waveform with a regular curved wavy pattern consisting of linear grooves or peaks as defined above. A typical regular curved wavy pattern used would be such that the previously defined distance D2 in the waveform pattern is at least 1.2 times the previously defined distance D1. In the application example, D2 = 1.25 to 1.35 × D1 is typical, but an alternative pattern is also possible. In some cases, techniques with non-regular curved wavy patterns may be applied, including patterns that do not use linear grooves, for example. It is also possible to modify the curved wavy pattern shown.

As mentioned above, the process shown in FIG. 4 can be used to form the central darts portion 72. FIG. 5 shows one of the grooves 68 after darting and decoupling in a cross-sectional view.

It can be seen that the folding configuration 118 forms four folds 121a, 121b, 121c, 121d in the darted groove 120. Folding configuration 118 includes a flat first layer or portion 122 secured to a facing sheet 64. The second layer or portion 124 is pressed against the first layer or portion 122 as shown. The second layer or portion 124 is preferably formed by folding the opposing outer ends 126, 127 of the first layer or portion 122.

Further referring to FIG. 5, two of the creases 121a and 121b are commonly referred to as "inwardly facing top" creases. In this regard, the term "top" is intended to indicate that when the folding configurations 120 are viewed in the orientation of FIG. 5, those folds are located in the upper part of the entire folding configuration 120. .. The term "inwardly oriented" is intended to mean that the fold lines or crease lines of each fold 121a, 121b are oriented towards each other.

In FIG. 5, creases 121c, 121d are commonly referred to as "outward facing lower" creases. In this regard, the term "bottom" means that the folds 121c, 121d are not located above, as in the folds 121a, 121b, in the orientation of FIG. The term "outward facing" is intended to mean that the folding lines of folds 121c, 121d are oriented away from each other.

The terms "top" and "bottom" used in this regard are intended to identify and represent the folding configuration 120 when viewed from the orientation of FIG. That is, those terms are not intended to indicate the orientation when the folding configuration 120 is oriented for use in a real product.

Based on the above characteristics and considerations of FIG. 5, it can be seen that the regular folding configuration 118 according to FIG. 5 of the present disclosure includes at least two "inwardly facing top folds". Their inwardly oriented folds are unique and easily provide an overall configuration that does not cause significant intrusion into adjacent grooves when folded.

It can also be seen that the third layer or portion 128 is pressed against the second layer or portion 124. The third layer or portion 128 is formed by folding the opposing inner ends 130, 131 of the third layer 128.

Another way to look at the folding configuration 118 is to refer to the alternating peak and valley geometry of the corrugated sheet 66. The first layer or portion 122 is formed from inverted peaks. The second layer or portion 124 is folded towards the inverted crest and, in a suitable configuration, to a double apex (after reversing the crest) folded to abut the inverted crest. Equivalent to.

Techniques for suitably providing the optional darts described in connection with FIG. 5 are described in WO 04/007054, incorporated herein by reference. A technique for coiling a medium while applying a wrap bead was filed on March 17, 2004, which is incorporated herein by reference, and is a US patent published as WO 04/082795. Explained in Application No. 04/07927.

Another method of darts on the closed grooved end is also possible. The method can include, for example, forming darts in each groove without centering and rolling, pressing or folding into various grooves. Generally, darting involves folding or otherwise manipulating the medium adjacent to the grooved end to achieve a compression closure condition.

The techniques described herein are particularly well suited for use in corrugated sheet / face-to-face sheet combinations, ie medium packs manufactured from the process of coiling a single sheet of "single facer" pieces. To do. However, the medium pack can also be formed in a laminated structure.

The coiled medium or medium pack configuration can include a variety of peripheral perimeter definitions. In this regard, the term "peripheral perimeter definition" and its variants are intended to represent the shape of the perimeter defined when viewed at either the inlet end or the outlet end of the medium or media pack. To do. The typical shape is circular as described in WO 04/007054. Other shapes that can be used are oval, and some examples of oval are oval. Generally, an elliptical shape is a shape in which opposing curved ends are connected by a pair of opposite sides. In some elliptical shapes, the opposite sides are also curved. In other elliptical shapes, sometimes referred to as racetrack shapes, the opposing sides are nearly straight. The racetrack shape is described, for example, in US Patent Application No. 04/07927 published as WO04 / 007054 and WO04 / 082795, both incorporated herein by reference.

Another way to describe the perimeter or perimeter shape is by defining the perimeter when looking at the cross section of the media pack in a direction orthogonal to the winding access of the coil.

Opposing flow ends or flow surfaces of a medium or medium pack can have a variety of different definitions. In many configurations, the ends or end faces are nearly flat (planar) and perpendicular to each other. In other configurations, one or both of the end faces include a portion that is gradually tapered, such as a stepped portion, which either projects axially outward from the axial end of the side wall of the media pack or the medium. It can be specified to project axially inward from the end of the side wall of the pack.

Groove seals (eg, by single facer beads, wrap beads or stacked beads) can be formed from a variety of materials. Within the various literature cited and incorporated herein, it is described that the Fused Deposition Modeling or Polyurethane Seals can be used in a variety of applications.

FIG. 6 shows an overview of a coiled medium pack (or coiled medium) 130 configured by winding one piece of a single-sided medium into a coil. The particular coiled medium pack illustrated is an oval-shaped medium pack 130a, particularly a racetrack-shaped medium pack 131. The end of the medium on the outside of the medium pack 130 is indicated by 131x. For convenience of use and sealing, it is typically terminated with a linear portion of the medium pack 130. Typically, a hot melt seal bead or seal bead is placed along its end to ensure sealing. Opposing flow (end) planes in the medium pack 130 are indicated by 132, 133. One will be the inlet flow surface and the other will be the exit flow surface.

FIG. 7 shows (roughly) the process of forming a laminated z-filter medium (or medium pack) from pieces of the z-filter medium, each piece being a grooved sheet fixed to a facing sheet. Referring to FIG. 6, the single facer piece 200 is about to be added to the stack 201 of pieces 202 similar to piece 200. Piece 200 can be cut from either piece 76 or 77 in FIG. 205 of FIG. 6 shows a state in which the stacked beads 206 are applied between the layers corresponding to the pieces 200 and 202 at the edges facing the single facer beads or the seal. (Stacking can also be performed by adding each layer to the bottom of the stack instead of the top.) Referring to FIG. 7, each piece 200, 202 has a front edge portion 207 and a trailing edge portion 208, and opposite side edge portions 209a, 209b. The inlet and outlet grooves of the corrugated sheet / facing sheet combination that make up each piece 200, 202 are generally extended between the leading edge 207 and the trailing edge 208 and are parallel to the side edges 209a, 209b. ..

Further referring to FIG. 7, in the medium or medium pack 201 being formed, the opposing flow planes are indicated by 210, 211. It is arbitrary which of the surfaces 210 and 211 is selected as the inlet end face during filtration and which is selected as the outlet end face. In some cases, the stacking beads 206 are placed adjacent to the upstream side surface or the inlet surface 211, but in other cases the opposite configuration is possible. The flow surfaces 210 and 211 extend between the opposing sides 220 and 221.

The laminated medium configuration or pack 201 formed as shown in FIG. 7 is sometimes referred to herein as a "block-shaped" laminated medium pack. In this regard, the term "block-like" indicates that the configuration is formed as a rectangular block such that all faces form an angle of 90 ° with respect to all adjacent walls. For example, in some cases, in order to form a parallelogram block shape or an inclined block shape, a laminate can be formed by slightly shifting each piece 200 from being aligned with an adjacent piece, in which case the inlet and outlet surfaces are Parallel to each other but not perpendicular to the top and bottom surfaces.

In some cases, the medium or medium pack may be represented as having a parallelogram shape in cross section, which means that the faces of the two opposite sides are approximately parallel to each other.

The block-shaped laminated structure corresponding to FIG. 7 will be described in US Pat. No. 5,820,646, which is a conventional technique incorporated in the present specification for reference. In addition, the laminated structure was filed in U.S. Patent No. 5,772,883, U.S. Patent No. 5,792,247, U.S. Patent Application No. 60 / 457,225 filed on March 25, 2003, and December 8, 2003, and U.S. Patent Publication No. Explained in US Patent Application No. 10 / 731,564 published as Gazette 2004/0187689. Each of these references is incorporated herein by reference. The laminated structure shown in US Patent Application No. 10 / 731,504 published as US Patent Publication No. 2005/0130508 is an inclined laminated structure.

In some cases, two or more laminates can be incorporated into one medium pack. In some cases, it is also possible to form a laminate such that one or more flow surfaces have recesses, as shown, for example, in US Pat. No. 7,625,419, which is incorporated herein by reference.

C. Selected medium or medium pack configuration with multiple isolated coils of grooved medium, FIGS. 8-8B Another type of media configuration or media pack extending between the opposing ends can be used with the principles selected in the present disclosure. An example of such an alternative medium configuration or pack is shown in FIGS. 8-8B. The medium of FIGS. 8-8B is similar to the medium shown and described in German Patent No. 20 2008 017 059 U1 and is viewed in a configuration commercially available under the Mann &amp; Hummel trademark "IQORON". May be possible.

With reference to FIG. 8, the entire medium or medium pack is indicated by 250. The medium or medium pack 250 comprises a first outer fold (ridged) medium loop 251 and a second inner fold (ridged) medium loop 252, with each medium loop It has a fold tip (or ridge) that extends between the opposing flow ends 255. The figure of FIG. 8 is a view toward the end portion 255 of the medium pack (flow). The illustrated end 255 can be either an inlet (flow) end or an outlet (flow) end, depending on the flow direction selected. For many configurations with the characterized principles, the medium pack 250 will be configured within the filter cartridge such that the end 255 is the inlet flow end.

Further, referring to FIG. 8, the medium loop 251 with outer folds (with peaks formed) is formed in an elliptical shape, but an alternative shape is also possible. Reference numeral 260 denotes a mold-in-place molded fold end closure, which closes the end of the fold or ridge 251 at the media pack end 255.

The folds or ridges 252 (and associated fold tips) are arranged so as to be surrounded by and separated from the loop 251 by which the folded medium loop 252 is also shown in a slightly elliptical configuration. In this case, the individual folds of loop 252 or the end 252e of the ridge 252p are hermetically sealed. Also, the loop 252 surrounds a central portion 252c that is typically closed by a central piece 253 that is molded in place.

If the end 255 is the inlet flow end, air will flow into the gap 265 between the two medium loops 251, 252 during filtration. The air then flows through either loop 251 or loop 252 while being filtered through the medium pack 250.

In the illustrated example, the loop 251 is configured to incline inward towards the loop 252 as it extends from the end 255. Also shown is a spacer 266 that supports a center alignment ring 267 that surrounds the end of the loop 252 to maintain structural integrity.

In FIG. 8A, the end 256 of the cartridge 250 on the opposite side of the end 255 can be seen. You can see the inside of loop 252 surrounding the open gas flow area 270. If air is generally guided through the cartridge 250 towards the end 256 and away from the end 255, some of the air that has passed through the loop 252 enters the central region 270 and through the end 256 from the central region. leak. The air that entered the medium loop 251 of FIG. 8 during filtration will, of course, pass approximately along the outer circumference 256p of the end 256.

FIG. 8B provides a schematic cross-sectional view of the cartridge 250. The selected features indicated and described are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

By examining FIGS. 8-8B, it is understood that the cartridge 250 described above is generally a cartridge having a medium tip extending in the longitudinal direction between the opposite flow ends 255, 256. Let's go.

In the configurations of FIGS. 8-8B, the medium pack 250 is shown as having an elliptical, particularly racetrack-shaped perimeter. In many of the examples shown below, the air filter cartridge also has an elliptical or racetrack-shaped configuration, and is therefore illustrated in this way. However, it is possible to embody the principle with various surrounding shapes instead.

B. Types of additional media Many of the techniques featured herein are grooves or fold tips in which the medium oriented for filtration between the opposing flow ends of the cartridge is unidirectionally extended at the opposing ends. It is preferable to apply when it is a medium having. However, other configurations are possible. The technique characterized with respect to the definition of the seal configuration has opposed flow ends, even if the medium does not include grooves or fold tips extending in one direction between those ends. Applicable with filter cartridges in which the medium is arranged to filter the fluid flow between their ends. The medium can be, for example, a depth medium, can be folds formed in different directions, or can be a foldless material.

However, in practice, the techniques featured herein are used with cartridges that are configured to be relatively deep and have a large charge volume in use extending between the flow ends. Is particularly effective. These types of systems are such that the medium is usually configured to have a fold tip or groove extending in one direction between opposing flow ends.

II. Selected and identified issues with various air cleaners A. General For example, there is a surge in air cleaner assemblies that use relatively deep filter medium packs that closely follow one or more of Figures 6-8B. Examples of actual products on the market are provided by the transferee of this disclosure, Donaldson Company, Inc., under the trade name "Powercore" and by Mann &amp; Hummel under the trade name "IQORON". Pay attention to the products you have.

In addition, air cleaner assemblies using such medium packs can be incorporated into a wide variety of original equipment worldwide, including on-road trucks, buses, off-road construction equipment, agricultural equipment and mining equipment. .. Maintenance parts and maintenance services are provided by a wide range of suppliers and service companies.

B. Identifying the appropriate filter cartridge It is very important that the filter cartridge selected for maintenance is a suitable cartridge for the air cleaner of interest. The air cleaner is a very important component in the whole equipment. The need for maintenance more frequently than intended can result in higher costs, longer downtime for related equipment, and loss of productivity. If maintenance is not performed with proper parts, there is a risk of equipment failure or other problems.

Suitable cartridges for the air cleaner of interest and the equipment of interest are generally the product of product technology / testing by the air cleaner manufacturer and specifications / guidance / testing and certification by the equipment manufacturer and / or engine manufacturer. On-site maintenance and inspection may look like the previously installed parts, but it is possible for the person in charge to select parts that are not properly certified for the relevant system.

An air cleaner assembly characterized by allowing service providers to easily identify that the work to maintain and inspect the assembly, regardless of medium type, is being performed by the correct (or improper) filter cartridge. It is desirable to provide. The features and techniques described herein can be provided to obtain this advantage as described below.

In addition, assembly features and techniques that are favorable with respect to manufacturing and / or filter component integrity are also described. They can be achieved by making it easy to confirm that the proper cartridge is attached to the assembly or by the kind of features and techniques associated with another application.

C. Problems with air flow sensor In many systems, air flow sensors are provided downstream of the filter cartridge, upstream of the engine, to monitor airflow characteristics and contaminant characteristics. In some cases, slight changes in the configuration and orientation of the media pack can cause variations in the operation of the air flow sensor. Therefore, in some cases, it is desirable to provide an air cleaner assembly in which the filter cartridge and the air cleaner have features that relatively minimize changes in air flow from the filter cartridge. This makes it possible to facilitate the use and operation of the air flow sensor. The features and techniques described herein can be provided to obtain this advantage.

D. Stable filter cartridge installation Equipment where air cleaners are often placed is subject to significant vibration and shock during operation. The types of media packs described above in relation to FIGS. 6-8B are often relatively deep, i.e., long grooved, with a groove airflow depth of at least 50 mm, often at least 50 mm. At least 80 mm or more, often over 100 mm. Such a deep filter cartridge will adsorb a significant amount of contaminants during use and will be considerably heavier. Therefore, the filter cartridge may receive a significantly large vibration moment during operation. Features that ensure a stable position for the cartridge, avoid damage to the medium (or medium pack) even when moving, and easily avoid damage to the seal during such vibrations and shocks. It is desirable to provide it on the filter cartridge.

Similarly, equipment can be affected by a wide range of temperatures during storage and use. As a result, the materials expand / contract with each other. It is desirable to configure the filter cartridge and air cleaner so as not to jeopardize the integrity of the seal even under such circumstances. The features and techniques described herein are applicable to address these issues as described below.

E. Summary The features presented herein can be effectively used to address one or more of the problems described below. There is no particular requirement that the features be realized to address all issues to the fullest extent. However, selected embodiments are described that address all of the problems listed above to a fairly desirable degree.

III. Example of air cleaner and filter cartridge configuration, Fig. 9-Fig. 49B A. First embodiment, FIGS. 9-18D The principles of this disclosure can be applied in a variety of specific configurations to realize the benefits in accordance with this disclosure. This can be understood by examining the embodiments and features of the filter cartridge and air cleaner shown in FIGS. 9 to 18D.

First, with reference to FIG. 9, an air filter cartridge having the general characteristics according to the present disclosure is indicated by 400. The cartridge 400 generally has facing flow ends and comprises a medium (ie, medium pack) 401 oriented to filter the fluid between the facing ends and a seal configuration 402.

As will become clear from the further description below, the media pack 401 may substantially follow the media pack previously described in connection with FIGS. 6-8B, but alternative configurations are possible. In the particular example 400 illustrated, the medium pack 401 has an oval-shaped perimeter shape. Therefore, this cartridge can be used with a medium pack according to FIG. 6 or FIGS. 8-8B. However, for example, if the outer peripheral portion is formed into an almost oval shape by cutting, the principle can be applied even in relation to the medium pack according to FIG.

Alternatively, as described below, the seal features of the configuration of FIG. 9 are applicable with other shaped media or media packs, including, for example, circular or rectangular media. Therefore, although the medium or medium pack 401 has a substantially oval-shaped outer peripheral portion, it is not particularly required that the peripheral portion definition be oval-shaped in order to obtain some advantage in accordance with the present disclosure.

The particular seal configuration 402 shown is generally of a type that is characterized by a peripheral pinch seal configuration. In this regard, the term "pinch seal configuration" is intended to refer to a seal member that is sandwiched between the features of an air cleaner (housing) when the cartridge is assembled.

The term "periphery" associated with seal configuration 402 is intended to generally refer to a seal configuration that defines the outermost perimeter of the cartridge 400. In this example, the peripheral seal configuration 402 is arranged so as to surround the medium pack 402.

In the case of the medium pack 401 of the illustrated example, the peripheral shape definition of the medium pack 401 has two opposing linear sides 401a, 401b and two opposing curved ends 401c, 401d. It is an oval shape that is sometimes called a "race track". In addition to the configuration according to the present disclosure, another oval shape such as an elliptical shape, and further a non-oval shape can be implemented.

The particular medium pack 401 shown has a length-to-width ratio greater than one. In many applications to which the principles described herein are applied, length pairs in the range of at least 1.3: 1, such as about 1.3: 1 and above, 5: 1 and below, such as 1.1: 1 and above, 3.5: 1 and below. Width ratios are typical, but alternative numbers are possible. However, the principle can be applied to other medium packs. In fact, the principles of the invention are optionally applicable with circular or square medium packs.

The particular medium pack 401 shown is the opposite first flow end 406 (corresponding to the first cartridge flow end) and the second flow end 407 (to the opposite second cartridge flow end). Corresponding) and. The (fluid) air being filtered generally flows from one flow end towards the other flow end or through the other flow end. In a typical application, the end 406 is the inlet flow end and the end 407 is the outlet flow end, but alternative configurations are possible. In that case, the medium pack 401 generally does not allow air (fluid) to pass through the medium and is unfiltered from one flow end (eg, end 406) through (passing through) the medium to the other end (eg, eg). It is configured so that it cannot flow to the end 407).

Typically, the medium pack 401 has dimensions of at least 50 mm, usually at least 80 mm, often at least 100 mm, and often 150 mm or more (actually 200 mm or more) between the flow ends 406, 407. Have. This is a medium pack that is relatively deep or long. The media pack is often configured to have a groove (or fold tip) extending in the direction between the flow ends 406, 407. Not surprisingly, this is the case when the medium is the type of medium pack previously characterized in relation to FIGS. 6-8B.

The seal configuration 402 generally comprises a seal member 412 having a (outer) peripheral peripheral edge surface 413. The (outer) peripheral peripheral edge surface 413 is often not a sealed surface for many applications according to the present disclosure. This surface may engage with the features of the housing surrounding it, for example by face-to-face contact, but typically the peripheral peripheral edge surface forms a seal on such housing surface during use. , Not required to be configured to maintain. Although it is possible to provide a seal at this position for some applications, it is typically not preferred. This will become clear from the explanation below.

The illustrated sealing member 412 is an elastic member having a first pinch surface 414 and a second pinch surface 415 facing each other, and at least one of the pinch surfaces, in this example, at least the surface 415 is an axial sealing surface. The faces generally engage in a compressed or sandwiched manner (between them) with the components or parts of the housing when the cartridge 400 is attached, thereby forming a pinch seal. Typically, one of the surfaces 414, 415 selected (in this example, the surface 415 towards the downstream or downstream end) engages with a more important housing (for sealing). It is configured as a surface to be formed, but an alternative configuration is also possible. In a typical configuration, the seal member 412 is arranged closer to the upstream flow end than the downstream flow end, but alternative configurations are possible. In this case, the surface 414 is typically a compression surface, but it is not a particularly important sealing surface and is more important because the surface 415 engages the housing at a position downstream of the joint of the housing member (axial). ) It becomes a sealed surface.

The (outer) peripheral peripheral edge surface 413 can have various shapes. In the illustrated example, this surface is approximately oval in shape, but includes selected deformations or contour shapes as described below. The peripheral edge surface 413 has a shape substantially following the shape of the medium or the medium pack as shown in the figure, but can be considerably deformed if desired.

In this example, the peripheral peripheral edge surface 413 includes an optional but suitable peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour portion or member 420 of contour configuration 421. The illustrated member 420 is a portion of the recess member 420, i.e., the edge surface 413 formed as a recess from the portion 413x immediately adjacent to the surface 413 toward the medium pack 401. This member 420 of the protrusion / receiving contour configuration 421 is for easy confirmation that the cartridge 400 is properly positioned in the housing and is the correct cartridge for the housing as described below. Can be used for.

In the illustrated example, the cartridge 401 includes a member 420 of an optional peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / receiving portion contour configuration 421 including two recesses 420a and 420b arranged to face the seal surface 413. In the illustrated example, regions 420a and 420b are mirror images of each other, but this is not particularly required. In fact, as described below, another arrangement that provides an asymmetrical configuration, for example on opposite sides of the surface 413, may be advantageous.

Consistent with the above description, the first member 420 of the optional peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour configuration 421 has only one recess member, for example 420a, in some applications and is the opposite region. It can be configured so that there are no protrusions / recesses.

In some cases, the member 420 may not be a concave member but a protruding member, that is, a member that projects outward from the medium pack 401 beyond the adjacent portion of the surface 413. In some cases, the member 420 may include both concave and protruding portions.

In the illustrated example, the member 420 is arranged on the linear portion of the edge surface 413 so as to overlap one or both of the linear side portions 401a and 401b of the medium or the medium pack. This is typical, but in addition to or instead, protrusions / receiving members can be placed on the curved portion of surface 413 so as to overlap one or both of the curved ends 401c, 401d of the medium or medium pack. Is.

In the filter cartridge 400 of the illustrated example, the sealing surface 415 (in this example, the downstream axial sealing surface) is the axial contour housing sealing surface 415c. In this regard, the term "contour" and its variants mean that the surface 415 is not only flat on one surface perfectly along the perimeter of the medium pack 401. One or more selected portions along the length of the face are different from mere flat, i.e., some contour shape is defined. In FIG. 9, the contour area is generally indicated by 415r.

A typical such contour configuration used in the cartridges according to the present disclosure may be referred to as a protrusion or protrusion / recess contour configuration. One example is referred to as a "staircase" contour or a "stepped" contour. In this regard, the term "stepped" and its variants include contour regions 415r with one or more steps, each step with an adjacent flat region, except where it is typically separated by a transition region. It is meant to include flat areas that are substantially (or almost) parallel. In the example of FIG. 9, examples of three stages are shown by 418, 419 and 422. The transition area between step 418 and the stepless portion of surface 415 is indicated by 425. The transition area between steps 418 and 419 is indicated by 426. The transition area between steps 419 and 422 is indicated by 427. The transition area between step 422 and the non-contoured portion of the adjacent surface 415 is indicated by 428.

Regarding the contour shape, pay attention to the side view of FIG. 11 and the enlarged partial view of FIG. 11a in which the area thereof can be seen in the plan view.

With reference to FIG. 11a, the transition regions 427, 428 (and also include 426, 425, which are not shown in FIG. 11a, are typically mirror images of 427, 428). It can be defined as extending downward at an angle K from the adjacent portion of the surface 415 and extending upward at angles K and L from the adjacent portion of the surface 413. Angles K, L are typically at least 5 °, often 90 ° or less, typically in the range of 5 ° or more, 85 ° or less, and often 15 ° or more, 75 °. It is within the range of ° or less, usually 30 ° or more and 70 ° or less, and most often 30 ° or more and 60 ° or less. The angles K and L are preferably 35 ° or more and 85 ° or less, more preferably 40 ° or more and 80 ° or less, and most preferably 45 ° or more and 75 ° or less. This facilitates hermetic engagement with non-uniform housing members as described below.

In addition, referring to FIG. 9 again, the respective steps 418, 419 and 422 themselves are flat and not contour protrusions. This is typical, but not required for all applications. Further, in the case of the cartridge 400 of the illustrated example, the stages 418, 419 and 422 are arranged so as to be aligned with the region 420a which is a recessed region. This is typical, but not required for all applications.

Further, steps 418, 419, 422 are provided along the linear side portion 401a of the medium pack 401 so as to overlap it. This is also typical, but not required for all applications.

In a typical application, the surface of the corresponding housing or air cleaner that is hermetically engaged with the surface 415 is similarly contoured (in a mirror image) to accommodate the contour area 415r. Thus, the surface of the housing that engages the seal surface 415 is formed with a substantially mirror image of the steps 418, 419, 422 in the fitting region aligned with the cartridge 400 between the portions 425 and 428. Will have a recess. This will be further explained below.

Further referring to FIG. 9, the recess 420b could be configured in the same manner as the region between portions 425-428. This is not required, but is typical in many cases. In some cases, as described below, an asymmetrical configuration is desired instead of such a configuration.

The concave surface 420s of the region 420 may be tapered along the flow direction. That is, it may be formed so as not to be parallel to the direction between the ends 406 and 407. When such a taper ring is used, a typical taper ring is at least slightly angled towards a medium pack extending between the upper edge 420i and the lower edge 420j. There is, but an alternative configuration is possible. This will be further explained below.

Further, with reference to FIG. 9, attention is paid to the optional but effective handle configuration 430. The optional handle configuration 430 features a convenient position for gripping the cartridge 400 to operate it, especially while removing the cartridge 400 from the housing. This will be further explained below. Referring to FIG. 9, in the illustrated example, the handle configuration 430 includes two handle protrusions 430a, 430b arranged adjacent to the surface 414 on opposite sides of the cartridge 400, the handle protrusions being the ends of the cartridge. It protrudes in the direction away from the part 407. An alternative configuration is also possible.

A handle configuration that includes one or more handle protrusions located in an area that does not overlap the flow surface 406 may be referred to as "peripheral handle configuration" or similar terminology. This means that the handle member is fixed to the cartridge at a position that does not substantially overlap the flow surface 406 and is not surrounded by the medium of the medium pack 401.

FIG. 9A shows another perspective view of the cartridge 400. In this case, the figure is a view toward the region 420b. Since region 420b is similar to region 420a and oriented in a mirror image relationship with region 420a, the same reference numerals are used in the figure to indicate the same sealing surface features.

FIG. 10 shows a schematic unfolded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly 460 with the cartridge 400. The air cleaner assembly 460 typically comprises a housing 461 with housing portions 462, 463, during which an axial housing seal configuration 402 will be placed between the housing portions 462, 463 and sandwiched between them. One housing portion 463 is typically a cartridge receiving portion and includes a receiving groove 465 into which the seal configuration 402 fits during installation. The second housing member 462 is generally pressed by applying pressure to the surface 414 during mounting to properly sandwich the pinch seal 412 between the seal surface 415 itself or the seal surface portion of the valley 465 for easy sealing. Includes a pressure flange 464 oriented to achieve. Various holding mechanisms such as bolts or overcenter latches can be used to apply and hold the force.

Further referring to FIG. 10, in the case of the air cleaner assembly 460 of the specific example shown, the housing portion 463 includes the seal region outer peripheral rim 470, and the seal region outer peripheral rim 470 surrounds the surface 402 during installation. It projects from the surface 402 in the same direction as the optional handle members 430a and 430b. From this, the advantages of the handle members 430a and 430b can be understood. That is, after the housing portion 462 has been removed, without the optional handle as provided by the optional handle member 430a, the cartridge 400 is submerged in the flange 470 and the cartridge 400 is removed from the housing portion 463. It will be difficult to retrieve.

Further referring to FIG. 10, the housing portion 463 further includes the inner peripheral rim 471 of the seal region, the inner peripheral rim 471 of the seal region is surrounded by the rim 470 and separated from the rim 470 by the valley 472 including the seal engaging surface. doing. Rim 471 is an optional but preferred configuration. The rim 471 is typically arranged such that a portion of the seal configuration or seal member 412 is located between the rim 471 and the rim 470 when the cartridge 400 is properly installed. This will be understood from the more detailed description below.

The housing 462 in FIG. 10 is shown schematically. The housing will typically have additional features for use in connection with its mounting, airflow inlets, airflow outlets, etc. Note Figure 10A in this regard.

FIG. 10A schematically shows an air cleaner configuration or assembly 460, including a housing 461 having a first housing portion 462 and a second housing portion 463. Housing 461 includes an airflow inlet 466a and an airflow outlet 466b. The bolt 467 fixes the housing portions 462 and 463 to each other and applies a pinching force to the sealing member 402 in FIG.

In the figure of FIG. 10A, the inlet 406a is in the portion 462 and the outlet 466b is in the portion 463. Depending on the application to which the principles of the present disclosure apply, both inlet 466a and outlet 466b can be placed in one housing portion, eg portion 463, where the other portion 462 acts as a separable access cover and seals. It is formed into a contour shape that gives pressure.

With reference to FIG. 10 again, another member 420x of the protrusion / receiving configuration 421 is provided along the inner surface 470i of the rim 470. The member 420x is sized to protrude into one of the recesses 420, 420b as the cartridge 400 is pushed down into the portion 403. Since the particular cartridge 400 shown has recessed members 420a, 420b on opposite sides of the flange inner surface 470, similar protrusions (like protrusions 420x) will be placed on the opposite side of the rim 470.

The receiving portion 465 includes the bottom portion or the valley portion 472. The bottom would typically be a seal engagement surface contoured in the appropriate area that would engage with the contour area 415r of FIGS. 9 and 9A during installation. The bottom may further include a continuous bottom rib 472r to facilitate sealing.

The engagement between the seal member 402 and the seal valley portion 465 will be described in more detail below in relation to other drawings.

Yet another diagram of the cartridge 400 is provided in FIGS. 11-13 as follows. FIG. 11 provides a side view when viewed towards the recess 420a. Features similar to those already described are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

FIG. 11A shows a partially enlarged partial view of FIG. 11 as described above.

FIG. 12 provides a plan view when viewed toward surface 406. FIG. 13 provides an end view of one of the ends, in this case looking towards the end 401c of FIG. The features already described are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

14-14A show selected features of the cartridge 400 in a cross-sectional view. First, pay attention to FIG. FIG. 14 shows a cross-sectional view of the cartridge 400 as seen through approximately the center of the short dimension, i.e., with the cross section passing through the contour portion 415r.

FIG. 14 shows the entire medium or medium pack 401. This is not intended to imply that any particular medium or medium pack of the types of media or medium packs described above in connection with FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 will be used. As shown, the media pack has opposite flow surfaces 406, 407.

Further referring to FIG. 14, the particular seal configuration 402 shown is the supported seal configuration 401s. This means that the seal member 412 contains a rigid preform structure or elastic material (typically molded in place) attached to the seal support, some of the seal support is 480. Indicated by. This is typical of the configurations according to the present disclosure, but alternative configurations are possible. As will be understood from the following description, the material 481 forming the seal member 412 is often mold-in-place molded onto the support 480, but alternative configurations are possible. Typically, the support 480 has openings and the resin forming the seal region 481 can flow through those openings to form a tight engagement. This will be further described below in connection with a configuration example of the cartridge 400.

Further referring to FIG. 14, the optional handle members 430a and 430b also include the handle member support 482. The handle member support 482 is part of a preform structure in which the resin forming the handle configurations 430a, 430b is formed during assembly. Typically in use, the handle member support 482 constitutes an integral part of the preform or support configuration further comprising the support member 480.

The filter cartridge 400 extends along the perimeter of the medium pack 401 with an optional side protection extension, shield, shell or sheath 485 that protects the medium or medium pack from damage during handling and installation. Further included. The optional sheath or shell 485 is generally preferred to be a solid, perforated member that projects from the seal configuration 402 to the end 407 and extends around the media pack 401, but alternative configurations are possible. In the illustrated example, the shield, shell or protective member 485 is integrated with a support configuration further including a support 480 and a handle support 482. This is a typical configuration when such an optional shield or shell is used, but alternative configurations are possible. The optional shell or sheath often extends along at least 80% of the axial length of the medium (the length of the medium between the opposing ends), usually along at least 90% of that length. However, an alternative configuration is also possible.

Further referring to FIG. 14, an end 407 of the medium pack 401, in this typical example a medium pack and a grid or support 487 extending along the downstream end 407d, is shown. Such a grid configuration or support 487 easily protects the medium pack 401 from downstream distortion during use. It also facilitates cartridge assembly. Such a grid configuration is typical, but not required. In the case of the configuration of this example, the grid configuration 487 is integrated with the shell or sheath 485 and other parts of the structure including the seal support 480 and the handle support 482. This is a typical configuration, but not required in every example.

Next, focusing on the protrusion / recess member 490 in FIG. 14, the protrusion / recess member 490 extends inward from the medium or medium pack 401, that is, from the end (face) 406 toward the end 407. The protrusion 491 defines an open receiving recess 492 for receiving the protrusion on the safety cartridge or housing, as described below. The member 490 is formed integrally with the grid structure 487 and other parts of the support including the shield 485, the housing seal support 480 and the handle support 482. This is a typical configuration, but not required in all cases.

FIG. 14A shows a partially enlarged partial view of FIG. The portion shown in FIG. 14A shows features related to the handle member 430a and the seal member 402 in the area where the contour portion 415r and the recess 420a are shown.

It should be noted that the seal member 402 in the configuration illustrated with reference to FIG. 14A is not only sealed at a predetermined position on the seal support 480 or molded in place on the seal support 480, but also in the region 401s. Since it is molded in direct contact with the medium or medium pack 401, the sealing member 401 secures the medium 401 to the support 480 in the region 401s. This is an effective configuration, but alternative configurations are possible.

Further, in the seal member 402 of this example, a receiving portion 402t is provided between the portion 402d of the seal member 402 and the medium pack 401, and in this case, between the portion 402d of the seal configuration 402 and the optional sheath 485. Recesses or valleys are formed. The receiving recess or valley recess 402t is configured to accept the inner rim 471 in FIG. 10 of the housing 401 that projects into the recess during mounting. This is further described below and can be used to easily secure the cartridge 400 in place during installation and use.

In addition, referring to FIG. 14A, the seal member adjacent to the valley portion 402t and adjacent to the receiving recess 402t along the surface region 402i is contoured as the portions 402a, 402b, and 402c in this example. Generally, these portions engage a similarly contoured portion of the flange 471 as described below.

Next, pay attention to FIG. FIG. 15 is a long-dimensional cross-sectional view. The features already described are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

FIG. 15A shows an enlarged partial view of the identified portion of FIG. In FIG. 15A, the figure is a cross-sectional view of the seal member 402, but is a view of a region that does not include both the recess corresponding to the recess 420a and the contour portion corresponding to the contour region 415r.

Note the valley region 402t with reference to Figure 15A. FIGS. 14A and 15A are intended to show that the valley 402t typically extends completely along the entire perimeter of the medium pack 401. Also pay attention to the radial inner surface 402i of the member 402. In this case, the surface 402i is a contour surface having portions 402f and 402g. Those surfaces are generally configured to engage a similarly contoured portion of the flange 472 in the housing during installation, as described below.

In general, comparing FIGS. 14, 14A, 15 and 15A, in the configuration of the illustrated example, the seal configuration or member 402 extends completely along the entire perimeter of the medium pack 401 and is part of the seal member 402. It will be understood that the receiving valley 402e is formed between and the medium pack 401. In a more typical preferred configuration, the seal configuration or member 402 is sealed directly to the medium (or medium pack) 401 in the region 401s. Further, it can be seen that the seal configuration 402 (seal 412) has an outer peripheral portion or an outer peripheral peripheral portion 413, a first axial (pinch) surface 414, and a second axial surface 415. Typically, the first surface 414 is located closer to the inlet surface 406 of the medium pack 401 than the surface 415. Typically, the surface 414 is relatively flat and has no features, but in the configuration shown, the surface 414 is slightly curved outward from the medium pack in the radial direction. The surface 415, on the other hand, is an important (axial) sealing surface, preferably descending from end 406 to end 407 and contoured in the selected region 415r. An example of the contour is as described above and includes a plurality of steps. The recesses on surface 413 were also described.

In the illustrated example, the sealing member 402 includes a support 480 embedded around the medium or media pack, which in the illustrated example is integral with the sheath 485.

Dimensional examples and engagement with housing features are described in more detail below.

With reference to FIG. 16, an unfolded perspective view showing the medium pack 401, the preform support member 490 and the mold-in-place molded seal member 402 is shown. The medium pack 401 can be any of the medium packs described above in relation to FIGS. 6-8B. The medium pack of the illustrated example follows approximately FIG.

The sealing member represented by 402 is a material that is believed to be mold-in-place molded into the combination of the medium pack 401 and the support 496 in this example to provide the features described above. In FIG. 16, the support 490 is typically molded from plastic and is an integral preform containing each of the features described above: seal support 480, handle support 482, sheath 485, grid 487 and receiving section 490. Shown as a support. The seal support 480 includes a plurality of through openings for circulating the resin during the manufacture of the cartridge.

In a typical assembly, the medium or medium pack 401 is preformed and pushed into the preform support 496. The protrusion 490 will be located in a position surrounded by the medium or the medium of the medium pack 401. The medium pack 401 will be inserted until it abuts on the grid 487. The medium or medium pack 401 is preferably formed in such a size that when the medium pack comes into contact with the medium or medium pack, one end adjacent to the surface 406 of the medium or medium pack protrudes slightly outward from the support 495. The combination of the medium (pack) 401 and the support 495 will then be inserted into a mold having a contour shape suitable for forming the member 402 in place within the support 495 of the medium (pack) 401. ..

In FIG. 16A, the support 495 is shown in perspective view. Optional handle members 482, seal supports 480 and shell 485 can be seen. The handle member 482 includes a through opening 487a for allowing the seal member to flow in during sealing. There is also an opening 480a for the resin in the support 480 to flow in.

FIG. 17 shows another unfolded perspective view.

A variety of materials can be used to form the mold-in-place molding of the seal portion 412. Typically, the material is sufficiently flexible or elastic enough that the contours of the surface 415 can be fully sealed and engaged with the housing features. A foamed polyurethane material or a similar foamed material is typically used. Examples of materials that can be used are typically 450 kg / cm.³Below, usually 355 kg / cm³Below, in many cases 290 kg / cm³Hereinafter, it is a material that can be molded to a molding density of, for example, 190 to 300 kg / cm3 (desirable for providing a sealing material). Typically the material is formed into a shore A with a hardness of 40 or less, usually 30 or less, often 22 or less, for example 10-20. A variety of the usable materials are available from various resin manufacturers.

In FIGS. 18 to 18B, an example of engagement between the cartridge 400 and the housing 461 can be seen. First, referring to FIG. 18, the cartridge 400 is located in the housing portion 463, the housing portion 462 is located therein and presses the seal configuration 402 into place. Note that the housing 463 (schematically shown in partial view) may include a protrusion extending into the area 452, or the safety element shall include a handle or other protrusion extending into the area 492. Would be possible. This makes the cartridge more stable.

FIG. 18A shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 18 in the region of seal configuration 402 where the contour of the seal member 412 is formed. This will be a cross section of the same region as shown in Figure 14A.

With reference to FIG. 18A, it can be seen that housing 461 includes housing portions 462, 463. Part 463 is shown to include an outer flange 470 and an inner flange 471, which is provided with a receiving recess 472 to accept the housing seal configuration 402 when the cartridge 400 is mounted.

As shown, the pressure flange 464 is particularly pressed into the seal member 412 via the abutting portion 464a to press the seal member 412 into the recess 472. In the illustrated example, the pressure flange 464 includes a rim 464r which is sized to ensure proper mounting and is arranged so that the bottom faces a part of the flange 470. This is a convenient and typical method, but alternative configurations are possible.

Reference to FIG. 18A shows an optional rib 472r that engages face 415 of the sealing member 412 for ease of sealing. The optional rib 472r is typical and preferably extends continuously along the receiving recess 472.

Further referring to FIG. 18A, an inner portion 471i contoured to accept and engage the contour region of surface 402i of FIG. 14A is shown. Thus, as the seal member 402 is pushed down, proper engagement with the surface 470i is obtained, which facilitates sealing and positioning.

The flange 470 shows a region 420x protruding into the recess 420 of the peripheral surface 413 of the sealing member 412.

With reference to FIGS. 9, 9A and 11, it will be understood that the bottom surface 472b is contoured with similar steps for engagement in the recess 472. This is further explained below in connection with other figures.

FIG. 18B shows an enlarged partial view of a portion of the assembly in which the portion of the cartridge shown in FIG. 15A engages the housing, similar to FIG. 18A. Similar features are indicated by similar reference numerals in the figure. The inner surface 471i of the flange 471 is contoured in this region to engage the surface portion of the sealing member 412 of FIG. 15A.

18C and 18D are shown in FIGS. 18C and 18D, except that the outer peripheral surface 413 of the sealing member 412 is tapered inward while extending from surface 414 to surface 415, as indicated by the angle TA in each drawing. It is almost the same as FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B. Other features will be similar. A typical taper angle TA could be just a draft, but it could be even larger. This angle will typically be 25 ° or less, usually 20 ° or less, but alternative numbers are possible.

Another tapering is also possible. By comparing FIGS. 18A and 18B with FIGS. 18C and 18D, the perimeter surface 413 does not need to extend parallel to the medium pack and can be tapered inward or outward as it extends. The general teaching is obtained.

B. Second configuration example of FIGS. 19 to 20 As described above, the general features presented herein with respect to filter cartridges having opposite flow ends can be used with a variety of shapes and types of media packs. 19 and 20 are shown for use with a medium pack (medium) containing a stack of medium pieces (typically single-sided pieces) formed in a rectangular shape, eg, according to the description of FIG. 7 above. A modified example in which 9 seals are configured is shown. However, the cartridges of FIGS. 19 and 20 are otherwise similar to the cartridges of FIG.

With reference to FIG. 19, the cartridge 550 is shown. The cartridge 550 has a substantially rectangular perimeter and has a medium or medium pack 581 having a rectangular perimeter sealing member or configuration 552. In FIGS. 19 and 20, the same reference numerals in the figure as in the embodiment of FIG. 9 are intended to indicate features that function similarly. Thus, the seal member 552 includes an edge recessed configuration 420 with a recessed member 420a, further including an axial contour surface 415r.

FIG. 20 provides a plan view substantially towards surface 406 (or the flow end of the cartridge) of the medium pack 551. It can be seen that the medium pack (medium) has a substantially rectangular peripheral portion, and the sealing member 552 is similarly configured with a rectangular contour shape.

The configuration includes a support member similar to the support member 485, but the support member can have an appropriate peripheral shape definition if desired.

The medium pack used in the configurations of FIGS. 19 and 20 could also include a coiled medium according to FIGS. 6 or 8-8B. The coil will be shaped into a slightly rectangular pattern and will have more rounded corners than shown in FIG.

C. Modification example of seal configuration, Fig. 21-Fig. 27 21 to 27 show the filter cartridge 600 according to the second modification. The same reference numerals in the figure show almost the same characteristics. The difference between the cartridge 600 and the cartridge 400 is that the cartridge 600 contains one step instead of two steps on each side of the axial housing seal construction surface contour area 415r. FIG. 21 shows one step between positions 425, 428 that is aligned with the recess 420a, the step is indicated by 419, and the transition area is indicated by 425, 428. In other respects, the cartridge 600 is similar to the cartridge 400. Although the cartridge 600 is shown without the optional handle member 430s, the handle member can be similarly used in such a configuration if desired.

In FIGS. 21 to 27, the same reference numerals in the figure indicate structures having the same functions as the features described above.

FIG. 22 is a developed perspective view of the cartridge 600. FIG. 23 is a plan view when viewed toward the first flow surface 401, FIG. 24 is a side view when viewed toward the long dimension, and FIG. 25 is a side view when viewed toward the short dimension. It is a side view.

FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a contour region passing through a short dimension. FIG. 26 is almost the same as FIG. 14, and it can be seen that the same reference numerals in the figure indicate the same parts. FIG. 26A shows a cross-sectional view of an enlarged portion similar to that of FIG. 14A, and the same reference numerals in the figure indicate similar portions. Finally, FIG. 27 provides a second unfolded perspective view.

It will be appreciated that the cartridge 600 can be assembled in the same way as the cartridge 400 and the cartridge 550. Further, it should be understood that the sealing surface area will use a housing that is properly contoured to the illustrated sealing member, although it is configured similarly.

D. Embodiment of FIG. 28 FIG. 28 shows a diagram of a cartridge 650 that is similar to the cartridge 600 but has opposite flow ends that use a medium (or medium pack) similar to the cartridge 550 of FIGS. 19-20. This simply indicates that the type of seal configured for use with the cartridge 600 of FIGS. 21-27 can be realized with different perimeter definitions for one or both of the medium pack and the seal member. Only.

E. Another variant, Figures 29-35 Up to this point, a modified example of the definition of the peripheral portion of the medium (pack) and the definition of the peripheral portion of the seal of the medium (pack) has been presented together with a modified example of the contour of the sealing surface. 29-35 provide additional modifications of the cartridge 700 with opposed flow ends. In this case, a plurality of contour regions or contour portions are shown along each side of the edge portion of the seal member.

The cartridge 700 is shown with reference to FIG. 29, and features of the cartridge 700 that are similar to those described above are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure. A plan view is provided in FIG.

Note that in FIG. 29, the edge recessed region 420 actually comprises opposing regions 420a, 420b, including two regions 740a, 740b, respectively.

Similarly, referring to FIG. 31, the contour step region 415r of the illustrated example includes steps 719a, 719b separated from each other along each side. Of course, the same multi-stage configuration as in Fig. 9 can be used in the configuration shown in Fig. 31.

FIG. 32 shows a side view when viewed toward the short dimension side. FIG. 33 provides an exploded perspective view of the cartridge 700.

FIG. 34 shows a cross-sectional view along the long dimensions, and FIG. 35 shows an enlarged partial view. If the cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view along a short dimension passing through the seal member, the cross-sectional view can be modified in some way according to a specific contour shape if required, but it is almost FIG. 14A. It will be a partial view similar to.

The cartridges of FIGS. 29-35 can be configured similar to the cartridge 400 of FIG. 9, and are housings that engage cartridges of appropriate size, shape and contour to accommodate the deformation of the sealing members described and illustrated. It will be appreciated that it can be used in similar housings except for the features of.

F. Additional deformation, Figure 36 FIG. 36 shows a plan view of the cartridge 750. The cartridge 750 shows a modified example in which the seal configuration of the cartridge 700 shown in FIGS. 29 to 35 and the peripheral portion are rectangular.

G. Additional modifications, Figures 37-44a 37-44A show a cartridge 800 that has opposite flow ends and is similar to the cartridges described above, such as the cartridge 400. In this case, the housing seal member 402 is deformed to have a plurality of edge recesses and a plurality of individual steps shown along each side. The cartridge is otherwise similar to and usable as the cartridge described above, but the housing configuration is adequately configured to engage the illustrated seal member. Cartridges can be configured in the same way. In FIGS. 37-44A, the same reference numerals are provided to indicate parts similar to those described above. H. Additional variant, Figure 45 FIG. 45 shows a cartridge 850 having a sealing member having a contour formed slightly similar to the configurations of FIGS. 37 to 44A, but in the present embodiment, the sealing member has a rectangular peripheral portion, and the medium pack is also rectangular. Has a perimeter of. The same symbols in the figure as those used earlier indicate similar parts and features that function in the same way.

I. Additional description of the various seal configurations described and their engagement with the housing, Figures 46A-49B. Figures 46A-49B are provided with partial views to show the engagement of the cartridge with the housing configuration as described with respect to contours and recess / protrusion areas.

FIGS. 46A and 46B are intended to illustrate the selected engagement of the housing or housing portion that is believed to be used with the cartridge 400. With reference to FIG. 46A, a portion of the pinch seal configuration 402 of cartridge 9 is shown. The portion of the housing that accepts the pinch seal configuration, in particular the corresponding surface portion of the bottom of the seal valley housing, is shown at 900 with stepwise movement. Optional rib 472r is also shown. As the cartridge 400 is pushed into the housing, it can be seen that the respective protrusions 418, 419, 422 of the cartridge sealing surface 415 engage with similar steps and ribs of the housing 900. It is also understood that the preferred angles K, L previously described in connection with FIG. 11A facilitate surface engagement to achieve a seal between the cartridge seal surface 415 and the housing 900 in a similar transition region. Will be.

FIG. 46B shows that the recess 420a of the cartridge surface 415 engages the protrusion 420s on the flange surface 470i of the housing 900 while the cartridge is pushed down. It is shown that the inner surface 470 of the flange of the engaged housing 900 is slightly tapered outward as it extends downward, as in FIG. 18C. 46A and 46B can be considered to show the same engagement as for the cartridge 550 of FIGS. 19 and 21.

47A and 47B are similar to FIGS. 46A and 46B, except that they show the features of the cartridge 600 of FIGS. 21-27. This would, of course, be applicable to the cartridge 650 in Figure 28 as well.

48A and 48B show similar diagrams to FIGS. 46A and 46B, except that they relate to the cartridge 700 of FIGS. 30-35. This could, of course, be shown for the cartridge 50 in Figure 36 as well.

49A and 49B show similar diagrams to 46A and 46B, except that they relate to the cartridge 800 of FIGS. 37-44D, which can be used for the cartridge 850 of FIG. 45 as well. right.

J. Dimensional example Examples of dimensions and angles are given in the various drawings described. The dimensions and angles available may differ significantly from the dimensions and angles shown in the figure. However, in the various examples illustrated, the dimensions that can be used are, for example:

1. In Figure 14A, AA = 22mm, AB = 19.3mm, AC = 15.4mm, AD = 22mm, AE = 32mm and AF = 18 °.

2. In Fig. 15, AL = 50 mm.

3. In Figure 15A, AG = 22mm, AH = 8mm, AI = 22mm, AJ = 9mm and AK = 1 °.

4. In Figure 26A, AM = 22mm, AN = 19.3mm, AP = 22mm, AQ = 27mm, AO = 62 ° and AR = 18 °.

5. In Figure 34, AF = 50mm.

6. In Figure 35, the dimensions indicated can be similar to the dimensions shown in Figure 15A, but the angle AV is about 60 °.

7. In Figure 42, AC = 50 mm.

8. In Figure 43, BA = 22mm, BB = 19mm, BC = 22.3mm, BD = 9.2mm, BE = 82 ° and BF = 90 °.

9. In Figure 44A, BG = 22mm, BH = 22.3mm, BI = 9.2mm, BJ = 5.5mm, BK = 82 ° and BL = 18 °.

In FIG. 11A, the angles are shown in K and L. These angles can be characterized herein as "step angles" or "transition angles" with respect to a plane passing through the medium pack, generally approximately perpendicular to the direction of air flow through the medium pack. It would correspond to the angle of the transition area for one step. Further, when the sealing surface portion is also substantially parallel to the plane perpendicular to the flow direction, this angle can be regarded as the angle formed by the step or the sealing surface adjacent to the transition portion. The angle (C, K) is preferably not steep enough to prevent a proper seal from being obtained with the corresponding part of the housing. Most preferably, the angle is steep enough that the steps themselves make sense. The angle can be in the range of about 5 ° or more and about 90 ° or less, but typically the angles K and L are about 85 degrees or less. Typical useful ranges are about 20 ° or more and about 80 ° or less, most typically about 30 ° or more and 70 ° or less, and often 30 ° for each of angles K and L. Above, it is 60 ° or less. The angle is preferably 30 ° or more and 85 ° or less, more preferably 40 ° or more and 80 ° or less, and most preferably 45 ° or more and 75 ° or less. In some cases, the angles K and L are about 40 ° or more and about 50 ° or less. In many cases, the angles K and L are the same.

In a typical configuration, each protrusion on the axial sealing surface 415 (eg, step or break) is at least 2 mm, usually at least 3 mm, often at least 4 mm, typically at least 2 mm relative to the adjacent portion of the seal configuration. Extends to a length of 8 mm or less. In the case of a step member (protrusion) as shown in FIG. 11A, this distance is the axial distance between each partial step or partial step protrusion, eg, between steps 422 and 419 and between steps 419 and 418. Will correspond to the axial distance of, and the distance between step 422 and the adjacent portion 413x and between step 418 and the adjacent portion 413x.

Typically, each protrusion / recess member of the contour portion of the axial sealing surface 415 and each protrusion / recess contour of the peripheral edge surface 413 are preferably "discontinuous" members. This means that each such member is not continuously extended along the entire periphery, and the spread in the peripheral direction is short.

When a mold-in-place molded axial pinch seal is used, it is typically the distance between the opposing pinch seal engagement surfaces of the seal configuration (eg, indicated by 414, 415 in FIG. 9). The principle applies to configurations such that the region is at least 5 mm, usually at least 10 mm, whether or not the region is a stepped region. Also typically, whether or not the area is a stepped area, this distance is 50 mm or less, usually 45 mm or less, and in many cases, for example, the maximum thickness in the area at the position of the protrusion is , Approximately 15 mm or more and 40 mm or less, but alternative dimensions are also possible.

Typically the concave portion, for example the recess of portion 420a of FIG. 9, is at least 1 mm, usually at least 2 mm, typically 10 mm or less, usually 6 mm or less in depth with respect to the adjacent portion towards the media pack. It's dented so much.

When a handle configuration similar to the handle configuration described in connection with FIGS. 9A and 9B is used, the axial dimension of the protrusion of the handle portion from the adjacent portion of the cartridge is at least 2 mm, often at least 5 mm, In some cases it is at least 10 mm, typically 40 mm or less, but alternative dimensions are possible.

The axial overall length of the medium or medium pack between opposing flow ends or flow surfaces, eg, between surfaces 406, 407 in FIG. 9, is typically at least 50 mm, usually at least 80 mm, and often 100 mm or more. In most cases, the length is 150 mm or more, for example, 200 mm or more, and in reality, a length within the range of 100 mm or more and 450 mm or less is used, but alternative dimensions are also possible.

In connection with the description of FIGS. 18C and 18D, the angle TA was described as an optional taper angle for the outer surface 413 (FIG. 9) of the pinch seal member configuration. This was an angle parallel to the air flow, in that example the recess angle of the outer surface 413 between the opposing pinch seal engagement surfaces 414, 415. The TA can simply be a draft for molding, but it can be larger. The angle is typically about 30 ° or less, usually about 20 ° or less, typically at least 0.1 °. Similarly, this is also an optional feature. Also, the tapering does not have to be the same everywhere around the surface 413. Different taperings can be used at different locations as part of the interface between the cartridge and the housing.

With reference to FIG. 14A, 402b shows the bent portion of the inner surface 402i. This angle is indicated by angle AF. This will be the angle formed by a portion of the inner surface 402i with respect to a plane parallel to the direction between the opposing flow surfaces 406, 407 of the media pack. Angle AF is typically at least 5 °, less than 30 °, but alternative numbers are possible. The surfaces 402a and 402c can be provided with a portion that bends outward at some angle, if desired. In some cases, there is at least a small draft, for example at least 0.1 °, but alternative configurations are possible.

Figure 15A shows the angle with respect to portion 402g in AK. Typically, the angle AK is similar to the AF in Figure 14A for many applications. The difference between the cross sections of FIGS. 14A and 15A is that the cross section of FIG. 14A is the cross section of the surface passing through the step or protrusion, and the cross section of FIG. 15A is the cross section of the surface passing through the region of the sealed configuration without the step or protrusion. ..

Note that referring to FIGS. 14A and 15A, the surface 414 typically extends outward from the portion adjacent to the media pack and tapers away from the media end 406. Region 414 is the engaging surface with respect to the housing member, but is typically not a significant sealing surface as described herein. The typical angle of surface 414 is at least 2 ° with respect to the plane perpendicular to the direction of flow between surfaces 406, 407, typically 3 ° or more, 15 ° or less, and often 5 °. Above, it is 10 ° or less.

Typically, a portion of the surface 414 is a complete, uncontoured perimeter or perimeter over the perimeter of the media pack.

In contrast, the stepless region of surface 415 (or the region without protrusions / recesses) is often parallel to or nearly parallel to the plane perpendicular to the direction between surfaces 406, 407. .. Typically, such a portion of the surface 415 is in a plane extending at an angle of 0 ° or more and 4 ° or less with respect to the plane perpendicular to the direction between the surfaces 406 and 407.

The extension length of a predetermined concave portion, for example, portion 420a or 420b of FIG. 9 in the peripheral (peripheral) direction of the media pack, can vary considerably. Figure 11 shows a relatively long extension. Figure 37 shows a relatively short extension (although there are multiple). Typically, the length of the recessed region in the peripheral direction, i.e. in the peripheral direction, is at least 8 mm.

Typically, when the surface 415 includes steps, each step has an extension length such that the perimeter or peripheral spread is relatively flat or linear with respect to the adjacent portion of the sealing member. The length of this part varies considerably depending on the length of the step.

A variety of media or media pack forms can be used. When the sides of the media pack are straight. Often, its linear sides have a peripheral extension length of at least 40 mm and often 50 mm or more.

In the illustrated configuration, the seal configuration 402 (including the seal 412) is generally located adjacent to one of the flow ends 406, 407. This is typical, but alternative configurations are possible.

The peripheral seal 412 is also generally shown with a central plane extending approximately perpendicular to the direction between the flow planes 406, 407. This is typical, but another configuration is possible in which the central plane passing through the seal member 412 extends at an angle to the surfaces 406, 407.

Typically, the contour surfaces 413, 415 of the seal configuration have a substantially flat or relatively flat flat surface portion. The contour surface is often flat at least 10% of its total perimeter (usually at least 20%, often at least 50%). It can include separated parts.

As used herein, when a protrusion configuration or contour member is characterized by a "peripheral discontinuity" or similar representation, it is complete along the perimeter of the medium pack or other related feature. It means that it will not be extended to. In this regard, each of the illustrated contour recesses of surface 413 and the protrusions or steps of surface 415 are "discontinuous in the peripheral direction."

III. Selected variants and benefits The principles described herein are applicable in a variety of applications. It has already been shown that a protrusion member (eg, a step member or step configuration) can include one protrusion in the axial direction or multiple protrusions in the axial direction.

It has already been shown that if multiple stages are used, the stages can be arranged along the periphery of the cartridge so that they are arranged symmetrically. That is, it is possible to rotate the cartridge 180 ° with respect to the central axis, and even then the cartridge is still aligned with the housing due to the symmetrical seal configuration and engagement portion of the housing. Such a configuration may be desirable if the cartridge and housing are intended to be configured so that the cartridge can be mounted in either of the two rotational orientations.

However, in some cases it may be desirable to configure the cartridge so that it can be mounted in only one orientation. In this case, an asymmetric configuration can be introduced so as to feel interference when trying to (rotate) mount the cartridge improperly. For example, (1) only the concave portion 402a is provided in the configuration of FIG. 9, the concave portion 402b is eliminated or the concave portion 402b is made a different size, and / or the step configuration is aligned with only the concave portion 402a, and the region 402b If the configuration is made so that it is not aligned with, or the steps are not mirror imaged, and (2) the corresponding housing is configured as well, the cartridge is mounted in only one rotational orientation with respect to the central axis. It will be possible. This is especially useful in the sense that it is easy to confirm that the correct cartridge is installed. Also, in some cases, this configuration is used to achieve consistency of air flow from the outlet end of the cartridge group to any air flow sensor in the system, thereby easily improving the operation of the air flow sensor system. Can also be used.

In some of the configurations described, the axial (air flow direction) protrusions were generally aligned with the concave portions of the seal configuration. This is typical, but alternative configurations are possible. In some cases, for example, the peripheral recess and the sealing surface feature can be arranged at different peripheral positions (ie, different peripheral positions along the periphery of the media pack).

In the illustrated configuration, the recessed configuration and the stepped configuration are shown along the linear portion of the pinch seal member of the media pack. It is also possible to place one or more of them along the curved portion if desired.

In the example shown in FIG. 10A, housing portions 462, 463 that compress with a pinch seal in between include an inlet portion and an outlet portion on the opposite side. This is typical for many applications. However, as described above, in some cases it is possible to include the inlet and outlet in the same housing portion, in which case the housing will have pressure for sealing without the access cover supporting the air flow inlet of the housing. Is configured to be able to provide.

IV. Selected Addition / Alternative Embodiments and Features, Figures 50-85 A. General In general, Figures 1-49 correspond to the figures contained in US Patent Application No. 61 / 841,005 filed June 28, 2013. The previous description of these figures generally follows the disclosure of U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 841,005, with minor changes in certain terms and other content.

50-85 illustrate additional embodiments in connection with the application of the various principles featured in US Patent Application No. 61 / 841,005. Additional embodiments facilitate understanding of the various types of embodiments that can be improved using selected principles that are characterized in a broad sense.

It should be noted that the various principles described in relation to FIGS. 50-85 are applicable in conjunction with the principles described in relation to FIGS. 1-49. That is, the various selected features of any given embodiment can be applied in other embodiments or adapted to such applications.

B. First additional air cleaner assembly and components, Figures 50-62i 50-62i provide an additional embodiment of the air cleaner assembly and its components. FIG. 50 provides a perspective view of such an air cleaner assembly 1001. The air cleaner assembly 1001 is equipped with a housing 1002, and the inside of the housing contains a filter cartridge 1004 that can be maintained and inspected. In this regard, "maintainable" means that the filter cartridge 1004 is a replaceable part, i.e. the filter cartridge 1004 can be removed from the housing 1002 and regenerated or replaced.

Further referring to FIG. 50, the housing 1002 generally defines an internal space 1002i in which the cartridge 1004 is detachably arranged. Housing 1002 generally includes an airflow inlet configuration 1005 and an airflow outlet configuration 1006. In the illustrated example, the airflow inlet configuration 1005 and the airflow outlet configuration 1006 are shown as having one tubular structure each, but alternative configurations are possible. Further, in the illustrated example, the air flow inlet configuration 1005 is a side inlet. That is, it extends through the side portion of the housing 1002. On the other hand, the outlet configuration 1006 is shown as an axial exit configuration at the end. In this regard, the term "axial" is generally intended to refer to a direction that roughly corresponds to the direction between the opposing ends of the cartridge 1004, and the term "side inlet" passes through that inlet. It is intended to represent an inlet in which the flow is approximately guided laterally (or at right angles or at another angle as shown) with respect to the axial direction.

Generally speaking, the term "axial" end can be used to describe the directional flow between the opposing ends of the cartridge. There may be some differences in the particular flow path depending on the type of medium used, but the "axial" flow direction is from the most upstream end of the cartridge to the most downstream end. Can be almost characterized as.

The present technology also allows different positions and / or different flow directions for inlet configuration 1005 and outlet configuration 1006.

Further referring to FIG. 50, the illustrated housing 1002 includes a housing bottom (or base or bottom or base portion) 1008 and two parts designated as removable access covers 1009. The access cover 1009 is detachably secured to the base 1008 by an overcenter latch 1010 in the illustrated example, but an alternative connector is also possible. As will be understood from the further description below, the particular access cover 1009 illustrated will optionally guide the air flow as desired as it enters the housing 1002 through the inlet configuration 1005. It is composed.

Further referring to FIG. 50, the inlet configuration 1005 is located on the housing base 1008. An alternative configuration is also possible. For example, the entrance configuration 1005 can be arranged in another form of access cover.

FIG. 51 shows an unfolded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly 1001. The figure in FIG. 51 generally shows the parts of the finished air cleaner assembly 1001 that can be easily separated from each other during normal use. Therefore, you can see the access cover 1009, the maintainable filter cartridge 1004 and the housing base 1008.

Note that in FIG. 51, assembly 1001 is shown without a safety filter cartridge or a secondary filter cartridge. The principles used in the air cleaner assembly according to the present disclosure are also applicable to configurations with secondary filter cartridges or safety filter cartridges. The actually described seal features can also be used for safety filters.

Also referring to FIG. 51, assembly 1001 is shown without a pre-cleaner. Various types of pre-cleaners can be used with the principles of the present disclosure.

Further referring to FIG. 51, especially the housing base 1008, the illustrated base 1008 has an optional mounting pad 1012, which keeps the access cover 1004 removable during maintenance. The base 1008 (and the assembled assembly 1001) can be secured to the equipment for use. The assembly shown is particularly convenient as both inlet 1005 and outlet 1006 are mounted on the housing base 1008. That is, when removing the access cover 1009 for maintenance, it is not necessary to move the air conduits or tubes connected to the pipes 1005 and 1006.

The air cleaner assembly 1001 will typically be used as an engine (intake) air filter assembly or air filter for an internal combustion engine in a vehicle or other equipment. It goes without saying that the principles featured herein are applicable to a variety of other applications.

Further referring to FIG. 51, the air filter cartridge 1004 has a first flow end and a second flow end facing each other, includes a filter medium 1015, and the filter medium 1015 is opposed to the flow end of the cartridge. It has a first end (or flow surface) 1015a and a second end (or flow surface) 1015b, and a medium 1015 extends between these ends. Typically, where assembly 1001 is as illustrated, the end 1015a is the inlet flow end for unfiltered air and the end 1015b is the opposite outlet flow end for filtered air. Along with the principles featured in the book, alternative flow directions are possible.

Medium 1015 is shown schematically and does not include details. The medium 1015 is typically one of the previously generally characterized medium configurations, typically with a medium groove (or fold tip) between the ends (or flow planes) 1015a, 1015b. It will be extended. The shape of the various grooves (or fold tips) can be modified according to the principles described above, adjacent to one or both of the ends or flow surfaces 1015a, 1015b.

The particular filter cartridge 1004 illustrated comprises a medium 1015 configured in a shape having a first long cross section and a second short cross section perpendicular to the long dimensions. This is typical, but alternative configurations are possible. Further, the medium 1015 is shown as having an oval-shaped outer peripheral shape. However, alternative shapes are possible as described above for usable media. This is a general principle applicable to all embodiments characterized herein. That is, an alternative shape including, for example, a rectangular shape is also possible.

Referring to FIG. 51, the filter cartridge 1004 further includes a housing seal configuration 1020. The housing seal configuration 1020 may substantially follow the seal configuration described above. The seal configuration 1020 of the particular example illustrated is described in more detail below in connection with other figures.

With reference to FIG. 51, with respect to the illustrated embodiment, the housing portions 1008, 1009 are generally axially oriented into the seal configuration 1020 during assembly (ie, in the direction of flow through the housing (and cartridge 1004) during filtration. ) It is configured to have a portion that engages with the housing seal configuration 1020 so as to form a proper seal with the housing 1002 by applying pressure. The particular housing seal configuration 1020 illustrated is an axial pinch seal sandwiched between the pressure flange 1022 of the access cover 1009 and the sealed shelf or flange 1023 of the housing base 1008 during use. In the case of the illustrated example, the pressure flange 1022 extends well into the housing base 1008 during installation. In the illustrated example, the amount of extension of this flange 1022 is typically in the range of at least 50 mm, usually at least 60 mm, and often 80-200 mm, but alternative dimensions are possible.

Generally speaking, the access cover 1009 in the illustrated example includes a side wall 1009s extending between the pressure flange 1022 and the outer end 1009e of the access cover, but alternative configurations are possible. The access cover 1009 includes an air flow passage or opening configuration 1025 through the side wall 1009s (through the side wall 1009s) to allow air flowing in from the inlet 1005 to pass through. The access cover 1009, further illustrated, is an end arranged to easily divert air flowing in through the opening 1025 during use toward or directed laterally towards the cartridge 1004. Includes partial flow guide vanes or curved flow guide surfaces 1026.

FIG. 51a shows a second perspective view of assembly 1001. The overcenter latch 1010 is not shown in FIG. 51a. The same reference numerals used in FIG. 51 are used to indicate the same components. In FIG. 51a, for comparison and contrast with FIG. 51, which is a view towards the "top" end of the component, the figure is a view towards the "bottom" end of the component. .. (Of course, the assembly can also be oriented for use with a horizontal flow direction.) FIG. 51b shows a partially enlarged (rough) partial view of the housing base 1008 identified in FIG. 51b with some parts broken. Particularly visible is the sealed shelf or part of the sealing surface 1023 on which the housing seal configuration 1020 is pressed during sealing. This part will be further described below.

FIG. 52 provides a plan view of the air cleaner assembly 1001, which is a view towards the access cover 1009. You can see the latch 1010 fixing the housing portion including the access cover 1009 to the housing portion of FIG. 50 including the base 1008 (ie, the rest of the housing 1002).

FIG. 53 provides a schematic (long dimension) cross-sectional view approximately along lines 53-53 of FIG. In this case, it can be seen that the cartridge 1004 is operably (and removable) arranged in the housing internal space 1002i. The flow guide vanes or surfaces 1026 move away from the inlet 1005 to easily guide (turn into) the inlet air (from the inlet 1005) towards or (into) the end or surface 1015a of the medium 1015. It can be seen that it is tapered or extended (turned) toward. The particular surface 1026 shown is an arcuately curved surface, but alternative shapes are possible.

Air travels axially through 1002, is filtered as it passes through medium 1015, is expelled through flow end (or surface) 1015b, and finally exits outlet 1006. Medium 1015 is also schematically shown, and any of the various medium configurations characterized herein can be used. In FIG. 53, the housing seal configuration 1020 is engaged with the pressure flange 1022 for sealing and is deflected with respect to the housing surface 1023.

As understood from FIG. 53, and as previously described in FIGS. 50-52, in the case of the illustrated assembly 1001, the cartridge 1004 and the housing 1002 are "long cross sections" (or long dimensions) and "long dimensions". It has a "short cross section" (or short dimensions). The term "long section" and its variants are intended to include dimensions approximately corresponding to the longer inner section of the housing and / or cartridge (generally perpendicular to axial flow). The term "short section" and its variants also represent a section that is approximately perpendicular to the axial flow, but approximately perpendicular to the long dimension (usually when the medium is the widest in this dimension). Intended.

FIG. 53a shows an enlarged partial view of the identified portion of FIG. 53. The seal configuration 1020 deflected by the pressure flange 1022 to abut the housing shelf or sealing surface 1023 for sealing can be seen more clearly. To facilitate sealing, an optional rib 1023r similar to the rib described above on surface 1023 can be used.

FIG. 54 shows a short-dimensional cross-sectional view approximately along lines 54-54 of FIG. 52, with features previously and / or selected features described below indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure. ..

FIG. 54a shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the identified portion of FIG. 54. In FIG. 54a, the cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view of the contour portion of the housing seal configuration 1020. The contour portion will be described in more detail below. With reference to FIG. 54a in general, the pressure flange 1022 deflects the housing seal configuration 1020 to press it against the housing seal surface or shelf 1023 and also against the optional rib 1023r of the housing base 1008. Understand.

FIG. 54b shows an enlarged schematic cross-sectional view of the second identified portion of FIG. 54. In this case, the cross section is the cross section of the non-contoured portion of the housing seal configuration 1020. Again, it can be seen that the pressure flange 1022 and access cover 1009 deflect the housing seal configuration 1020 in the axial direction and press against the sealing surface or shelf-like portion 1023 (and optional rib 1023r) of the housing base 1008. ..

FIG. 54c shows an enlarged partial view of the identified portion of FIG. 54a. In the enlarged partial view, it can be seen that the optional rib 1023r on the sealing surface 1023 is pressed to engage the housing seal configuration 1022 for ease of sealing.

FIG. 55 provides a bottom view of the air cleaner assembly 1001. In this case, a part of the cartridge 1004 can be seen through the outlet 1006. It can be seen that this portion, corresponding to the end 1015b of the medium 1015, contains the optional grid 1016g described below.

FIG. 56 provides a plan view of the housing base 1008 with no cartridge installed. This figure shows a surface 1023 with an optional rib 1023r. The surface 1023 is contoured and thus includes a contouring member of the housing contoured / recessed sealed configuration as shown by 1030a. In the illustrated example, the contour member 1030 is provided as two contour portions 1030a and 1030b, but alternative configurations are also possible. These parts are configured to seal fit with the appropriate contoured parts of the housing seal configuration 1020 of the cartridge 1004, as further described below (generally approximately to the principles described above for other embodiments). Follow).

FIG. 57 shows a perspective view of the cartridge 1004. Similarly, the cartridge 1004 comprises a medium or medium pack 1015 having a medium extending between the opposing ends (or flow planes) 1015a, 1015b. The medium 1015 generally comprises one of the types of medium featured herein, typically a medium ridge extending between opposing flow ends (or surfaces) 1015a, 1015b. Will have. The medium ridges may be in the form of grooves (eg, as single-sided grooves or as folds), depending on the type of medium involved.

As described above, the particular medium 1015 illustrated is shown to have a substantially oval outer peripheral (peripheral) shape, but alternative shapes are possible.

The cartridge 1004 shown in FIG. 57 extends from the seal configuration 1620 to the ends 1015b, i.e. between the ends 1015a, 1015b (or along approximately the entire length between those ends) around the medium 1015. It has a shield, sheath or shell 1016. Other configurations are possible, including cartridges that do not have a shield or have a partial shield. When a shield is used, the shield typically extends along at least 80% of the axial dimension of the medium, usually at least 90% of that dimension.

As previously indicated, cartridge 1004 includes housing seal configuration 1020. The housing seal configuration 1020 generally includes a first axial seal housing engaging surface. An example of such an aspect is commonly given by 1035. It is this first axial seal housing engagement surface 1035 that is substantially configured to hermetically engage (and effectively engage) the housing surface 1023 selected during use. The particular first axial seal housing engaging surface 1035 illustrated includes a contour axial sealing surface portion 1035a generally having a first member of the contour housing engaging projection / recess member 1035b. This member 1035b is a contour member configured to engage a matching or fitting contour surface portion of the housing, an example of which is shown in FIG. 56 at 1030b.

The specific contour portion 1035b shown is a contour portion configured as a step region substantially similar to the contour portion described above and the contour portion further described below.

In the case of the configuration shown, the contour member 1035a includes two separated contour members or contour portions 1035b, 1035b'arranged along opposite sides of the cartridge 1004. This is typical, but alternative configurations (eg, only one contour or three or more contours) are possible.

As used herein in connection with an axial sealing surface of a housing seal configuration or a corresponding axial sealing surface for engaging with a housing, the terms "contour", "contouring" and variations thereof are used. It is intended to represent an axially oriented contour shape arranged along the peripheral direction, that is, a direction extending substantially along the periphery of the cartridge. The contour portion generally includes a non-contour forming portion when it is formed with a step as described above. In some applications, when measured over the distance between the beginning of each contour and the ending of each contour (all parts combined), the contour typically has that contour along the medium. It is relatively short compared to the overall spread of the surfaces arranged in the peripheral direction. This is not required, but is typical in many cases. The size of the contours, usually measured in this way, is less than 50%, usually less than 40%, and often 30% of the overall spread around the sealing surface on which they are placed. % Or less, and in some cases 20% or less.

In the case of the cartridge 1004 of the illustrated example, the housing seal configuration 1020 comprises an axial pinch seal configuration or member 1020p similar to the embodiments described above, and the pinch seal configuration is opposed (axially oriented). ) It has a first axial plane 1035 and a second axial plane 1036. In the illustrated example, the surface 1036 is a nearly smooth, feature-free, or non-contoured surface along the perimeter of the medium 1015. Surface 1035 is part of the mold-in-place molding member, which is the more important sealing surface on the downstream side, and surface 1036, which is also part of the mold-in-place molding member, is in the upstream position. This is typical for configurations that engage with the access cover at and are not required to be sealed or are not considered a significant surface. Of course, alternative configurations are possible.

Further referring to FIG. 57, the illustrated housing seal configuration 1020 includes a peripheral edge or peripheral edge surface as shown by 1020e, extending along the medium 1015 at a position between surfaces 1035, 1036. Peripheral edge surface 1020e optionally includes a first member of the peripheral edge projection / recess contour, represented by 1040 in its entirety. In the illustrated example, the contour member 1040 is a recessed member 1040r, but alternative configurations are possible. The particular recessed member 1040r shown includes two parts 1041 and 1042 at the peripheral edge 1020e, but alternative configurations (eg, only one part or three or more parts) are possible.

The contour shape of the surface 1035 is almost as shown in the above, and can be understood as a form of "axial contour". The contour of the perimeter edge 1020e is not generally formed in the axial direction, but is typically referred to as the "peripheral" contour, the "peripheral" contour, or the "peripheral perimeter" (edge) contour, and is generally the axial contour. The directions are orthogonal. Typically, in many applications, the overall length of the contour shape (total length of the contour portion) at the peripheral or peripheral edge 1020e does not occupy most of the overall length of the peripheral or peripheral extension of the edge 1020e. That is, 50% or less of the total length, usually 40% or less, typically 30% or less, and in some cases 20% or less, but alternative configurations are possible. As with axial contours, the dimension indicating the amount of extension of a given contour portion is intended to be the distance from where the contour portion begins to where the contour portion ends, and is within the contour area. It may itself include flat and uncontoured portions.

In the specific example shown, the axial contour portion 1035a is axially aligned with the peripheral edge protrusion / recess (defined or peripheral) contour 1040. This is because the contour member or contour portion 1035a having two parts 1035b, 1035b'is located in the same part of the peripheral edge protrusion recess contour 1040 (reflected in parts 1041a and 1042, respectively) and the housing seal configuration 1020. Means that. This is typical for the reasons presented herein, but alternative configurations are possible.

Further referring to FIG. 57, the illustrated cartridge 1004 includes a handle configuration 1050. With respect to the illustrated cartridge 1004, the handle configuration 1050 is described in more detail below. Generally, the handle configuration 1050 includes a central bridge 1051 extending above the central portion of the medium 1015 (or surface 1015a), which allows some fingers to be placed under the bridge 1051 during maintenance to hold the cartridge 1004. You can grab it. Further illustrated, the particular handle 1050 is positioned such that the peripheral portion is located in close proximity (relative to the handle bridge) to the medium embedded within a portion of the peripheral housing seal configuration 1020. This is a particularly convenient configuration if the housing seal configuration 1020 includes a mold-in-place molded portion with an axial sealing surface 1035.

The type of handle configuration 1050 commonly shown in the cartridge 1054 in the example of FIG. 57 is sometimes referred to as the central bridge (or central bridge handle configuration), which is where some fingers can be inserted underneath (or the central bridge handle configuration). This is because it includes the end of the medium or above the surface 1015a). However, alternative handle configurations are also possible, for example, handle configurations of the type having the features described above in connection with other figures can be used with cartridges that otherwise largely follow cartridge 1004.

In the example assembly shown, the handle configuration 1050 is placed at approximately the same end as the cartridge as a housing configuration. Further, the handle configuration is preferably configured so that there is no portion of the handle configuration or preform structure disposed between the bridge and the medium. Also, typically when used with suitable techniques, the handle configuration is not mounted in a structure in which the medium is placed around. The actual medium (including the grooved sheet fixed to the facing sheet and wound in a coil) is preferably not wound around any preform structure. Further, in the case of the typical preferred handle configuration featured herein, no portion of the housing seal configuration includes a radially oriented seal. As a matter of course, it is possible to replace each of these configurations.

FIG. 58 shows a plan view of the cartridge 1004. The features shown above or the features shown below are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

Next, focusing on FIG. 57a, FIG. 57a is a long-dimensional cross-sectional view substantially along the lines 57a-57a of FIG. 58. FIG. 57a schematically shows the medium 1015, which has opposite flow ends (or flow surfaces) 1015a, 1015b. You can see the handle configuration 1050 with the central bridge 1051. The housing seal configuration 1020 can also be seen in cross section. The cross section of FIG. 57a is a cross section passing through a portion of the housing seal configuration 1020 that does not include a contour region or a contour portion. In fact, the region through which the cross section of FIG. 57a passes is not the side portion of the medium 1015, but the region aligned with the narrow end portion. Although it is possible to place contours in these areas, for many applications it is a side portion (especially linear) rather than an end portion (especially a curved end) for ease of manufacture and assembly. It is preferable to provide a contour region along the side portion).

With reference to FIG. 57a, it can be seen that the cartridge 1024 of this example includes an optional sheath or shell 1016 extending around the medium 1015. In addition, the shell 1016 includes an optional bottom grid 1016g that extends across the end 1015b of the medium 1015 and supports the end 1015b. In addition, the shell 1016 includes a peripheral flange or seal support 1016f on which the housing seal configuration 1020 is placed for support. Flange 1015f may include an optional flow opening for allowing resin flow to pass during the formation of the mold-in-place molding portion of 1020.

Further referring to FIG. 57a, it can be seen that the handle 1050 is embedded in the mold-in-place molding portion of seal configuration 1020 and includes a peripheral portion 1050p close to the medium with respect to the bridge. This is a convenient way to secure the handle 1050 to the cartridge 1004 (when a mold-in-place housing seal configuration is used) when the handle 1050 is premolded.

FIG. 57b shows a schematic cross-sectional view, in this case a short-dimensional cross-sectional view approximately along lines 57b-57b of FIG. The opening of the flange 1016f can be seen in cross section. Also, in relation to the housing seal configuration 1020, a cross section is shown on the contour surface 1035 through the contour portion 1035a, particularly the portion 1035b. This contour portion (similar to the contour portion featured in other particular embodiments) is a portion that projects away from the end or end face 1015a and toward the end or end face 1015b.

An optional receiving recess (or valley) 1060 (located in a particular portion 1041) located between a portion of the seal configuration 1020 and the medium 1015 can be seen. The receiving recess 1060 of this option can generally be as previously characterized in relation to other embodiments. This causes the seal configuration 1020 to project into the valley of the housing during installation. This is shown in FIG. 54a, where the seal 1020 projects into the housing valley at the surface 1023, the outer housing surface 1008y and the inner flange 1008x, if desired.

With reference to FIG. 57b, a portion of the mold-in-place molding material of the housing seal configuration 1020 that secures the housing seal configuration 1020 directly to the medium 1015 is shown at 1020x. It is also possible to follow the configuration shown above. The shell 1016 is terminated slightly in front of the end face 1015a in order to conveniently accommodate the portion 1020x that directly secures the housing seal configuration 1020 to the medium 1015. This is typical for many applications, but alternative configurations are possible.

In FIG. 57b, note the material from which the housing seal configuration 1020 is molded in region 1020y. It can be seen that in those areas the resin material molded in place to form the housing seal configuration 1020 flowed through the opening in flange 1016f before it was completely cured.

Next, pay attention to Fig. 57c. FIG. 57c shows a short cross-sectional view of two parts of the housing seal configuration 1020, neither of which includes contour parts, along lines 57c-57c of FIG. 58a. However, one of the contours 1035b is visible in Figure 57, showing a cross section beyond that location.

FIG. 57d is an enlarged partial view of the identified portion of FIG. 57c. Figure 57d shows the perimeter of handle configuration 1050 embedded within the mold-in-place molding portion of housing seal configuration 1020. Also shown is a portion that secures the housing seal configuration to the medium 1015 via a mold-in-place molding material. In addition, a receiving portion 1060 oriented to receive a portion of the housing protruding inward during assembly can also be seen. This will be further explained below.

Next, focusing on FIG. 59, FIG. 59 provides an enlarged side view of the cartridge 1004. According to the above description, the medium 1015 is generally located between opposite axial flow ends or flow surfaces 1015a, 1015b, i.e., seal configurations 1020 to 1015b, at least 80%, usually at least 90%, of the medium. Shown as surrounded by an optional shield or sheath 1016 arranged to extend over the entire length. Typically again, the medium 1015 is also configured to have a groove (or fold tip) that extends completely or almost completely between the opposing cartridge ends (flow surfaces) 1015a, 105b. right. The medium 1015 can take a variety of forms, including a grooved medium formed by combining a corrugated sheet with a facing sheet, or the various shapes described above, including either a large number of foldd loops. It goes without saying that the principle can be applied to the laminated structure whose characteristics are generally shown above. In fact, other types of media can be used, but are usually not preferred.

Generally, a housing seal configuration 1020 having a first axial housing engaging surface 1035 including a contour axial seal portion or a sealing surface portion 1035a is provided as described herein. Also in this example, the housing seal configuration 1020 is an axial pinch seal 1020p having a first axial housing engaging surface 1035 and a second axial housing engaging surface 1036 facing each other (in the case of the illustrated embodiment). ) One side, 1035, is on the downstream side and faces the housing base, which is a more important side for sealing.

Also in Figure 59, you can see the handle configuration 1050, which includes the central bridge 1051 for gripping. The central bridge is again generally located above the central portion of the medium end 1015a (see Figure 57).

Generally speaking, as described above, the housing seal configuration 1020 includes a contour axial seal surface portion 1035a having at least a first housing engaging projection / recess member (contour) 1035b. In other words, the first housing engaging protrusion / recess member 1035a includes at least one contour protrusion portion 1035b. In fact, as can be seen from FIG. 57, in the illustrated example, the member 1035a has two housing engagement protrusions / concave portions 1035b, 1035b'.

In the specific example illustrated (FIG. 59), the housing engaging protrusion / recess member 1035b is a protrusion member. That is, this member projects axially toward the end 1015b and away from the end 1015a. In other words, the member projects axially away from the surface 1036 and adjacent to the non-contoured portion of the surface 1035 in the direction towards the end 1015b.

The particular first housing engaging projection / recess contour portion 1035b illustrated includes (optionally) a first end step portion 1060, a central step portion 1061 and a second end step portion 1062, which Alternative contour shapes are also possible. The central portion 1061 shown is located between the first end step portion 1060 and the second end step portion 1062, and the central step 1061 is the first end step portion 1060 and the second end. It protrudes from each of the step portions 1062 toward the flow end portion 1015b. It is possible to follow similar features described for other embodiments.

As described for the configuration shown above, each of the first end step portion 1061, the second end step portion 1062 and the center step portion 1061 extends over a peripheral length of at least 5 mm without axial contouring. It is preferably provided and is preferably extended over a peripheral length of at least 10 mm, although alternative configurations are possible. In most cases, the amount of this extension is in the range of 10 mm or more and 40 mm or less for the end portions 1060, 1062 and at least 30 mm (eg, 30-60 mm) for the central portion 1061. That is, each part is within the range of 10 mm or more and 60 mm or less.

As previously shown in connection with FIG. 57, from the other figures described with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 50-62i, the illustrated cartridge 1004 has a second contour portion 1035b'constituted similarly to portion 1035b. It will be apparent that it will be shown as having a housing seal configuration 1020 that includes. In the case of the example illustrated in practice, the housing seal configuration 1020 is optionally configured to be symmetrical with respect to contour and overall shape when rotated 180 ° with respect to a central axis passing through the housing configuration from surface 1015a to surface 1015b. Will be done. This symmetry, referred to herein as "rotational symmetry" or "180 ° rotational symmetry," is not required, but can be said to be advantageous in the housing seal configuration 1020 according to the present disclosure. When symmetry is used, it is convenient because the cartridge 1054 can be mounted (when gripped) in either of the two rotational orientations.

Further referring to FIG. 59, as described in connection with FIG. 57, the illustrated housing seal configuration 1020 further comprises a peripheral edge surface 1020e having a first member 1041 of a peripheral protrusion / recess (peripheral or peripheral) contour 1040. Including. In the illustrated example, this member 1040 is a recessed member 1040r, but alternative configurations are possible. In the illustrated example as shown in connection with FIG. 57, the peripheral edge surface includes two regions 1041 and 1042 corresponding to the peripheral edge protrusion recess contours separated by the non-contoured portion of the edge 1020e.

In the illustrated example, the contour 1035b is axially aligned with the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour portion 1040, as described above. This is typical, but alternative configurations are possible.

As shown above, the particular housing seal configuration 1020 shown is configured as an axial pinch seal member 1020p. Typically, when a mold-in-place molding member is used, the maximum distance between surfaces 1035, 1036 with or without contours is as characterized in the previous embodiment, but an alternative distance. Is also possible.

FIG. 60 shows an end view of the cartridge 1004. In FIG. 60, contour portions 1035b and 1035b'can be seen. The other features described above in FIG. 60 are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

FIG. 61 provides a bottom view of cartridge 1004. You can see the protrusions or contours 1035b, 1035b'. Further, from FIG. 61, the 180 ° rotational symmetry of the housing seal configuration 1020 can be further understood. In addition, a grid 1016 adjacent to the end 1015b of the medium 1015 can also be seen.

FIG. 62 shows a development view of the cartridge 1004. The cartridge 1004 is not normally disassembled after assembly, but it can actually be disassembled. However, from the development of FIG. 62, the components or components that can form the cartridge 1004 for some applications can be more fully understood.

The characterization in the previous paragraph is not intended to suggest that cartridge configurations in which the features of the seal configuration are located in a separable portion from the medium are unusable. Although such applications are possible, such uses would typically be undesirable in the techniques described herein.

As illustrated with reference to FIG. 62, the medium 1015 is preformed with a suitable configuration for the desired cartridge shape. The medium would normally be inserted into the preform shell or sheath 1016 via an open end 1016y, with the opposing end 1016z containing the optional grid 1016g of Figure 61 along that end. In FIG. 62, a flange 1016f with a penetrating opening can be seen. These openings are for flowing the resin used to form the mold-in-place molded portion of the housing seal configuration 1020.

After the medium 1015 is provided with the optional sheath 1016, the handle 1050 is abutted against the surface 1015a. The subassembly thus formed will be placed in a mold suitable for molding the mold-in-place portion 1020 m of the housing seal configuration 1020. Typically, the housing seal configuration 1020 is molded from a sealing material similar to the previously characterized material.

By examining the methods shown above, and in the overall configuration of the housing seal configuration 1020, why is the contour portion 1035a or surface 1035 aligned with the edge protrusion / recess contour portion 1040 in the axial direction? Understand if it is useful. The reason is that the concave edge portion 1040 thins the housing seal configuration 1020 (in a cross section perpendicular to the air flow), facilitating resin volume control in the mold forming the contour protrusion 1035. In other words, as the resin volume is reduced by the recess 1040, the resin volume can be expanded from the protrusion 1035. While this is typical and advantageous, it is not required for all applications of the techniques described herein.

More generally, the protrusion / recess contour protrusion member of the axial sealing surface is A.₁Can be characterized as having a flow direction cross-sectional dimension of. This would correspond, for example, to the area of the cross section shown in Figure 54a. In some cases, the housing seal configuration is non-contoured and has a flow direction cross-sectional area (area seen in FIG. 54b) that is area A.₂Is configured to be A₁Is A₂(In this regard, it is almost the same as A₁= 0.9 ~ 1.1A₂Means that). Typically these two parts are A₁= 0.92 ~ 1.08A₂, Preferably A₁= 0.95 ~ 1.05A₂It is formed with a cross-sectional area such that In this case, the term "flow direction cross section" or similar term is intended to represent a cross section in a plane parallel to the direction between the opposing flow ends of the cartridge. A₁Is the area of the cross section that passes through the largest part of the protrusion, A₂Will be the area of the cross section through the part of the seal configuration that has no contour shape. As a matter of course, an alternative configuration is possible.

Further referring to FIG. 62, the peripheral portion 1050p of the handle member 1050 can be seen, which is embedded by the mold-in-place molding material of the housing seal configuration 1020 to secure the handle 1050 and the resulting cartridge 1004. To do. The handle 1050 also includes reinforcing fins 1050 extending along it.

FIG. 62a shows a second unfolded perspective view of the cartridge 1004, in which case the unfolded perspective view shows features of the bottom that are not visible in FIG. 61. The same reference numerals are used in FIG. 62a to indicate similar features.

Figure 62b shows a plan view of shell component 1016.

FIG. 62c shows a side view of the shell 1016.

FIG. 62d shows a side view of the shell 1016.

FIG. 62e shows a side view of the handle configuration 1050.

FIG. 62f shows a plan view of the handle configuration 62e.

FIG. 62g shows an end view of the handle configuration 1050.

FIG. 62h shows a schematic plan view of the medium 1015.

FIG. 62i shows a side view of the medium 1015.

An example of dimensions is shown in the selected figure from FIGS. 50 to 62i. Their dimensions are intended to give an example of an operating system. Of course, the indicated dimensional changes can also be used. It is not particularly required that the assembly be constructed to the indicated or relative dimensions.

With reference to those figures, the dimensions of an example of an operating system are as follows. DR = 2mm, DS = 2mm, DT = 3.5mm in Fig. 54c, EE = 200mm, EF = 278mm in Fig. 57c, DU = 481mm, DV = 184mm in Fig. 62b, DX = 223mm in Fig. 62d, DY = in Fig. 62f. 481mm, DZ = 182mm, EB = 457mm in Fig. 62h, EC = 160mm and EF = 225mm in Fig. 62i.

Then return to Figure 53a. In FIG. 53a, a portion of the housing base 1008 or a peripheral ridge projection 1008x can be seen protruding into the optional receiving recess 1060 located between the portion of the housing seal configuration 1060 and the medium 1015. Typically, this ridge 1008x would be continuous along the medium 1015 as well as the recess 1040, but alternative configurations are possible.

The housing may include an optional portion that protrudes into the peripheral recess 1040r of the peripheral edge contour portion 1040. This can be as described above for other embodiments. An example of an embodiment of FIGS. 50-62i can be seen with reference to FIG. 54a, where housing portion 1008y is shown to project peripherally into a portion of recess 1040r.

When the peripheral peripheral recess 1040r is used, the peripheral peripheral recess 1040r may be inclined between the opposing ends, for example, as in the configuration described above in relation to other drawings.

In the example assembly of FIGS. 50-62i, pressure on the housing seal member was applied by an access cover with a pressure flange that engages the peripheral seal configuration. Alternatively, the access cover can be pressed against another part of the cartridge, such as the handle member, to distribute pressure to the periphery.

In the illustrated example, the housing does not include the feature of interacting with the handle member. However, it could also be provided access to the housing by a member that engages the handle member (to apply pressure to the assembly or otherwise stabilize the assembly).

In the example where the features are shown, the various features are shown as including preform rigid members such as shells and support flanges, as well as handle members. These parts can be molded from plastics such as polypropylene or nylon plastic, but alternative materials are also possible.

The housing seal configuration according to the embodiment of FIGS. 50 to 62i generally includes a contour configuration that is "discontinuous" along the medium. The optional peripheral edge contour is also discontinuous along the medium. In either case, this is typical for the applications according to the present disclosure. C. Examples of usable variants and principles, including the use of flexible lip members in housing seal configurations, selected alternative configurations and features, FIGS. 63-77. In connection with the embodiments of FIGS. 50-62i, the housing seal configuration 1020 featured and illustrated in a particular example engages with the pressure flange of the separable housing portion during installation of the pressure flange. It was equipped with a pinch seal member 1020p sandwiched between them. Further illustrated, the housing seal configuration 1020 of a particular example was not a preform, but a mold-in-place molding member that was molded during the formation of the resulting cartridge 1004. Alternative examples are possible for each (or both) of those configurations.

In the embodiments of FIGS. 63-77, how can the principles featured herein be applied when the housing seal configuration is, for example, a flexible lip formed as part of a preform gasket. The air cleaner assembly and features that indicate the above are shown. It will be appreciated that the principles of the present disclosure can be applied with many of the general features previously presented herein and / or with various variations of the types of medium configurations featured herein.

FIG. 63 provides an exploded perspective view of the air cleaner assembly 1101. The air cleaner assembly 1101 is shown as the part shown is usually a separable part in use. Note that safety filter cartridges or secondary filter cartridges are not shown, but such cartridges could be used with the assembly according to the techniques featured. (In practice, safety cartridges can even have seal features that are featured herein.) Also, no pre-cleaner is shown, but the principle that is featured herein in connection with the air cleaner assembly 1101. You could use a pre-cleaner with it. The air cleaner assembly 1101 illustrated comprises housing 1102, which generally houses a filter cartridge 1104 that can be serviced and inspected inside.

Housing 1102 generally includes an airflow inlet configuration 1105 and an airflow outlet configuration 1106. In the illustrated example, the airflow inlet configuration 1105 and the airflow outlet configuration 1106 are shown as having one pipe structure each, but alternative configurations are also possible. As in the embodiment of FIG. 50, the airflow inlet configuration 1105 is shown as a side inlet and the outlet configuration 1106 is shown as an end axial outlet configuration. This is typical, but it can be modified.

With reference to FIG. 63, housing 1102 generally includes two parts, designated as housing base portion 1108 and removable access cover 1109. The access cover 1109 is shown as removable and secure to the base 1108 by the overcenter latch 1110, but an alternative connector is also possible. Similar to the configuration of FIG. 50, the access cover 1109 is configured to easily guide the air flow in the desired manner while air flows into the housing through the inlet configuration 1105.

Further referring to FIG. 63, the inlet configuration 1105 is arranged on the housing base 1108. An alternative configuration is also possible, for example the entrance configuration 1105 can be placed on the access cover.

Further referring to FIG. 63, especially the housing base 1108, the illustrated base 1108 can be very similar to the base 1108 described above. This is not required, but a nearly identical base is used as an example. The base 1108 therefore includes a mounting pad 1112 for fixing the base 1108 (and the resulting assembly 1101) to the equipment in use.

Further referring to FIG. 63, the air filter cartridge 1104 includes a filter medium 1115 extending between the opposing first flow end 1115 and the second flow end 1115b. If assembly 1101 is as illustrated, as in the configuration of FIG. 50, end 1115a is the inlet flow end (or surface) for unfiltered air and end 1115b is the outlet flow end for filtered air (or surface). Or surface), but alternative flow directions are possible along with the principles featured herein.

Similar to the embodiments of FIGS. 50-62i, medium 1115 is shown schematically without details. The medium 1115 typically comprises one of the previously generally characterized medium configurations, typically between the flow ends (or surfaces) 1015a, 1015b corresponding to the opposite flow ends of the cartridge. Will have a media fold tip or groove extended in. Further, the shape of various grooves or folds can be changed according to the principle described above, adjacent to one or both of the surfaces 1015a and 1015b.

The particular filter cartridge 1104 illustrated similar to the configuration of FIGS. 60-62i comprises a medium 1115 configured in a shape having a long cross section and a short cross section (each perpendicular to the axial direction). This is typical, but alternative configurations are possible. Further, although the medium 1115 is shown by an oval-shaped outer peripheral portion shape, an alternative shape including, for example, a rectangular outer peripheral portion shape is also possible. This is as generally described above for other embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 63, the filter cartridge 1104 further includes a housing seal configuration 1120. The particular housing seal configuration 1120 illustrated will be described in more detail below in connection with other figures.

For embodiments illustrated with reference to FIG. 63, housing portions 1108, 1109 generally apply axial pressure (ie, the direction of flow through the cartridge 1104 during filtration) to the housing seal configuration 1120 during assembly. Each housing portion is configured to have a portion that engages with the housing seal configuration 1120 to provide proper sealing with the housing 1108. The particular housing seal configuration 1120 illustrated is an axial (pinch) seal assembly or seal. At the time of installation, the axial seal configuration 1120 is in use with the pressure flange of the access cover 1109 and the sealed shelf or flange (not shown in Figure 63, but see shelf 1023 in Figure 64) and the housing base 1108. It is compressed or sandwiched between them. Similar to the assembly of FIGS. 50-62, the pressure flange 1122 extends well into the housing base 1108 during installation. Also, in the illustrated example, the amount of this extension of the flange 1122 is typically in the range of at least 40 mm, usually at least 60 mm, and often 80-200 mm, but alternative numbers are possible.

Generally speaking, the access cover 1109 of the example illustrated in the same manner as in the examples of FIGS. 50 to 62 includes a side wall 1109s extending between the pressure flange 1122 and the outer end 1109e of the access cover. The access cover 1109 includes an air flow passage or opening configuration 1125 arranged on the side wall 1109s to allow air flowing in from the inlet 1105 to flow. The access cover 1109 may also include an end flow guiding surface 1126 (eg, vanes or arc-curved flow guiding surface) similar to surface 1026 as described above (see FIG. 64).

Further referring to FIG. 63, the pressure flange 1122 (unlike the pressure flange 1022) has an edge surface generally having some contour shape as shown by 1122c. This edge contour 1122c (optional, which may be advantageous in some applications including preform flexible lip gasket members) is described below.

FIG. 64 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the air cleaner assembly 1101. This cross section generally follows the longer cross section of the cartridge 1104 and housing 1102. The figure shows that assembly 1101 may be similar to assembly 1001 except for the specific features described herein in relation to housing seal configuration 1120 in general. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 64 is a view seen from the side opposite to the side visible in FIG. 63.

FIG. 65 provides a second schematic cross-sectional view along the short dimensions of housing 1102 and cartridge 1105. In this case, the cross section is taken with a cross section that passes through the two contours of the housing seal configuration 1120. This will be further explained below.

FIG. 65a shows a schematic partial view of the identified portion of FIG. 65. It can be seen that the housing seal configuration 1120 comprises a (elastic) seal or gasket member 1020 g located elsewhere in the cartridge 1104.

In the illustrated example, the gasket member 1120g is an elastic preform member formed prior to assembly of the cartridge 1115 and is not formed as a mold-in-place molding component. The gasket 1120g will typically be secured to the structure on the cartridge 1104, such as with glue. The particular gasket 1120g illustrated includes an elastic and flexible lip portion 1120f that can function to abut the flange or pressure shelf portion 1123 of the housing base 1108 to generate a seal as described below. .. The particular gasket 1120g shown includes a first lip 1120f and a second lip 1120b separated from each other and joined by a gasket portion 1120n. The lips or flanges 1120f and 1120b of this example generally extend parallel to each other (if not deformed). In this example, the thickness of these lips is different, and the lip 1120f is thicker, typically 1.5 to 5 times thicker, but an alternative configuration is possible. In typical applications, the lip 1120b is flexible at the time of formation, but will be glued to a rigid support flange or pressure flange, commonly referred to later as 1121. The particular pressure flange 1121 shown is configured as part of a housing seal configuration 1120 that engages the pressure flange 1122 of access cover 1109. The pressure flange 1121 is shown to extend outward from the mounting ring 1121 m portion of the support 1121s, which is believed to be preformed and then extended and secured around the medium 1115.

Typically, the flange 1121 and the support 1121s are preformed from a hard plastic material and the gasket 1120g is preformed from an elastic material to the support 1121s by suitable means such as adhesive (ie, the flange 1120 and the support). Will be mounted on the other part of the 1121s (in combination with the 1120m). The configuration thus formed is fixed in place on the media pack 1115.

Whether the gasket 1120g is fixed to the support 1121s before the support 1121s is fixed to the medium 1115 or the gasket 1120g is fixed to the support 1121s after the support 1121s is fixed to the medium 1115 is used. It is a matter of selection related to design / assembly depending on the assembly process.

The housing seal configuration 1120, particularly the lip 1120f, has an outer peripheral edge or outer peripheral edge, generally represented by 1120e. This edge is further described below.

FIG. 65b shows a second cross-sectional view of the portion approximately shown in FIG. 65. The cross-sectional view of FIG. 65b is a cross-sectional view through a portion of the housing seal configuration 1120 that does not have the type of contour shape featured herein. Structures and features similar to those described above in connection with FIG. 65a are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

FIG. 66 shows the cartridge 1104 in a perspective view. Features similar to those described above in relation to FIGS. 63-65b are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure. With reference to FIG. 66, one can see housing seal configuration 1120 with support 1121s with gasket 1120 g. Flexible lip 1120f can be seen on a part of gasket 1120g.

Further referring to FIG. 66, in the case of the illustrated embodiment, the cartridge 1104 has a sheath extending along the cartridge between the media ends 1115a and 1115b, that is, between the seal support 1121s and the end 1115b. Not included. Such a sheath or shield could be used, but this example is intended to show that alternative configurations are possible. (This alternative is applicable in combination with any embodiment featured herein.) Support 1121s has an upper pressure flange 1121 and an axial mounting projection 1121 m as described above. You can see that. The portion 1121 m includes a flexible tab in part thereof as shown to facilitate filtration and fixation to the medium 1115.

In FIG. 66, it can be seen that a contour portion is formed in the housing seal configuration 1120. In particular, the housing seal configuration 1120 includes opposing surfaces 1135, 1136. The surface 1135 is similar to the surface 1035, except that it includes the surface of the flexible lip 1120f that faces away from the end 1115a and towards 1115b. The surface 1135 of the illustrated example is configured to have a contour portion somewhat similar to the member 1035 described above. More specifically, the surface 1135 is a contour surface having an axial projection / concave portion 1135a including two contour (projection) portions 1035b, 1035b'in the illustrated example. In the illustrated example, each portion 1135b, 1135b'includes one stage 1135c, but alternative configurations are possible.

In the illustrated example, step 1135c is arranged 180 ° rotationally symmetric with respect to the housing seal components of the type described above, but alternative configurations are possible.

In the illustrated example, the peripheral edge portion 1135e of the member 1135 does not include the protrusion / recess peripheral portion or the peripheral edge portion contour portion. However, in some embodiments according to the present disclosure, the peripheral edge 1135e could include such portions as, for example, recesses or protrusions. Also, since a relatively thin flexible lip is used as a member with respect to surface 1135, the shelf-like portion 1123 will typically not include an optional rib similar to the rib 1023r described above, but depending on the application. Could also include ribs.

In the case of the configuration shown in the figure, no receiving valley or recess is arranged between the seal configuration 1120 and the medium. The housing would therefore not have a valley for the seal configuration 1120 to project inward, but would have a shelf-like portion with no medial peripheral protrusions.

In the case of the cartridge 1104 of the illustrated example, the surface 1136, which is not part of the gasket 1120 but is part of the support 1121s, is also shown to have the contour shape generally shown in 1138. This contour is formed of the rigid material of support 1121s and generally fits into the contour shape of support 1123 for the reasons described below.

With reference to FIG. 66, as described above with reference to FIGS. 62 to 65b, the overall operation of the housing seal configuration 1120 can be understood. The housing seal configuration 1120 is an axial housing seal configuration that acts as a pinch seal configuration because it is sandwiched between the housing portions 1109 and 1108 during use. However, the pressure applied directly to the gasket 1120g is the force from the cartridge support or pressure flange 1121, and the pressure is ultimately given by the housing portion 1109 via the pressure flange 1122, so the gasket 1120g itself is first. It is not a pinch seal gasket similar to the gasket 1020 described. Whether the lip 1120l is a relatively thin flexible lip (preform or mold-in-place molding) with a thickness of about 5 mm or less, typically about 1 mm or more and 4 mm or less. This is a convenient configuration if (regardless of).

As described above, the pressure flange 1122 of FIG. 62 includes a contour portion 1122c (including two portions in the example). These parts are configured to fit into the recesses 1138 of the support 1120s during assembly. In some cases, even if those optional protrusions 1122c are not used, most of the pressure flange 1122 will come into contact with the surface 1120s and the seal can be properly pressured if the appropriate pressure is applied to the surface 1120c. right. Also, if the surface 1120s does not include the recess 1138, a similar pressure effect could be obtained by appropriately modifying the pressure flange 1122.

FIG. 67 shows a side view of the cartridge 1104 when viewed toward the long dimension side. The features described above are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

In FIG. 68, a cross-sectional view taken along lines 68-68 of FIG. 67 can be seen. It should be noted that this cross-sectional view is a cross section passing through one of the contour portions 1135.

FIG. 68a is an enlarged partial view of FIG. 68. The features described above are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

FIG. 68b provides an enlarged partial view of the second portion of FIG. 68. In this case, the cross-sectional view is a cross-sectional view that passes through the portion of the housing seal configuration 1120 that does not include the contour shape. The features described above are indicated by the same reference numerals in the figure.

The gasket 1120 g can be preformed so as to have a contour shape corresponding to the contour portion 1135a (1135b, 1135b'), or is fixed to the support 1120s although it does not include the contour, and the contour is formed on the support 1120s. It can be formed to be sufficiently thin and flexible enough to adapt to such contour shapes.

FIG. 69 shows the gasket 1120 g. Gaskets are shown as preformed to include contours, the contour portions are indicated by 1135 and 1135b', respectively.

FIG. 69a shows a developed view of the cartridge 1104. Gasket 1120g is shown in association with support 1121s. Note that the unfolded view of Figure 69a shows the gasket 1120g on the support 1121s, which would not be a normal assembly. Gasket 1120g will typically be placed below support 1121s. However, the assembly in which the gasket is placed on the support is possible in other applications of the techniques described herein.

In FIG. 70, the support 1121s is shown in a perspective view.

FIG. 71 shows a plan view of the support 1121s.

FIG. 72 shows a side view of the support 1121s.

FIG. 73 shows a perspective view of the preform gasket 1120 g. The gasket is formed with contour portions 1135b and 1135b'as shown in the figure.

With reference to FIG. 73, the contour portions 1135b and 1135b'of the gasket 1120 g are formed along both the sealing surface and the upper surface, and the upper surface is fixed to the support flange. The reason why the contour is formed on the upper surface is that it is easy to fit with the access cover and the seal support, and it is useful for maintaining a constant thickness over the entire gasket 1120 g for ease of manufacture. Is. An alternative configuration is also possible.

In fact, FIG. 74 shows a plan view of a gasket that corresponds approximately to 1120 g of gasket. However, in this case, the deformation region is not shown. This is because the gasket 1120 g is not deformed in advance, but the contour shape is not formed on the gasket on various surfaces, and the desired contour of the gasket is considered to be preformed on the contour shape at the time of mounting. This is to show an example as obtained by attaching a flexible gasket to 1121s.

FIG. 75 shows a side view of the gasket 1120 g. In this case, the gasket 1120 g has a deformed portion or a contour portion.

FIG. 76 shows a schematic plan view of the medium peripheral configuration of the medium 1115. FIG. 77 shows a side view of the medium peripheral portion 1115.

Figures 63 to 77 provide examples of some dimensions to show examples of usable configurations. An alternative configuration is also available. Dimensional examples are as follows. DA = 13.5mm, DB = 6.5mm, DC = 14mm in Fig. 68a, DD = 13.5mm, DE = 7.5mm and DF = 5.5mm in Fig. 68b, DG = 458mm and DH = 191mm in Fig. 72, DI in Fig. 72. = 27 mm, DJ = 488 mm and DK = 191 mm in Figure 74, DL = 6-20 mm, DM = 3 mm and DN = 15-70 mm in Figure 75, DO = 457 mm and DP = 160 mm in Figure 76, and DQ = in Figure 77. 225 mm.

By examining FIGS. 63-77 and the general principles described above, various other uses of the techniques described herein can be understood. In particular, the housing seal configuration can include a flexible lip member. The flexible lip member itself is sandwiched between the housing parts or has one sealing surface for engaging with the housing, as a result of applying a pressure flange to the cartridge itself (guided from the housing part). It can be arranged so that compression occurs. The flexible lip member can constitute one member of the preform gasket or can be molded in place. Flexible lip members can be formed from a variety of materials and are typically TPE (thermoplastic elastomer).

A housing seal configuration using such a flexible seal member can be provided with an axial plane contour according to a general principle including a protrusion / recess contour configuration. The protrusion / recess contour configuration can include a stepped portion (and can optionally include a portion having two or more steps). The protrusion / recess contour configuration can include two or more contours or steps in the gasket member. It can be 180 ° rotationally symmetric if desired, but this is not required.

The seal can be formed so that the gasket is contoured during molding, or it can be configured such that the support on which the support is placed causes deformation, resulting in a defined contour shape. Is. Gaskets can be contoured on both sides, which would be typical for relatively thin flexible seals.

Specific gaskets with two aligned lips connected by a central or joint are shown. One of the lips is used to attach and engage the flange to the cartridge, and the other lip is a flexible lip member that forms an axial seal with the housing.

The configuration including the flexible lip can be provided without the edge contour shape if desired, as shown in the configuration described above. However, it is also possible to provide an edge contour shape in the configuration if desired.

It should be noted that in some applications of the techniques described herein, a housing seal configuration using one flexible lip member can be provided without the rigid pressure flange of the cartridge. In this case, the flexible lip would be sandwiched between the two contours of the housing to define the contour shape during installation. That is, such gaskets may not appear to have axial surface contours on the cartridge when initially formed, but typically contours as characterized herein (eg, step or step configurations). ) Will be sandwiched between the mating parts of the housing to form one configuration and will deform to the desired contour shape. In this case, when referring to the axial contour surface of the cartridge, it is intended to represent the cartridge at the time of mounting. Of course, this type of configuration could be provided with edge contours if desired.

The cartridges 1104 of FIGS. 63 to 77 are shown without a handle configuration. For use with such cartridges, any of the handle configurations described above and alternative configurations thereof can be provided or adapted. For example, the support 1020s could be configured to have a handle member if desired.

D. Further examples of cartridges according to the principles characterized herein, FIGS. 78-81a. As shown above, the configuration according to the present disclosure can include various contour shapes in the housing seal configuration. The examples described above in relation to those embodiments are also applicable to other embodiments. Alternative examples of contour shapes are shown in the cartridges of FIGS. 78-81a.

With reference to FIG. 78, a medium having a first flow end and a second flow end facing each other and generally arranged extending between the opposite end face or end 1215a and the end face or end 1215b. Cartridge 1204 with 1215 is shown. In the example shown in FIG. 78, cartridge 1204 includes a shield or sheath 1216 and a handle configuration 1250. As shown above, the cartridge 1204 is almost the same as the cartridge 1004 described above.

Further referring to FIG. 78, the illustrated cartridge 1204 comprises a housing seal configuration 1220 including a mold-in-place molded housing pinch seal 1220p in the illustrated example. Generally, the pinch seal configuration 1220p has opposing surfaces 1035, 1036, at least one of the surfaces 1035 including an axial contour seal surface.

In the configuration shown, the housing seal configuration 1220 includes a peripheral edge portion 1020e having a peripheral peripheral edge projection / recessed configuration 1240 including a recessed configuration 1240r in the illustrated example.

Referring to FIG. 78, the housing configuration 1220 includes a contour configuration 1235a on the surface 1035 that is asymmetric with respect to rotation about a central axis between the ends 1215a, 1215b. The housing seal configuration includes two or more steps.

In the illustrated example, the housing seal configuration 1220 includes a first step portion 1235b, a second step portion 1235c and a third step portion 1235d. The first step portion 1235b is located along one side of the cartridge 1220 and the two portions 1235c, 1235d are adjacent to each other along the opposite side but are spaced apart. In the illustrated example, the stepped portions 1235b, 1235c, 1235d have similar shapes except for the positions. This would be typical, but not required for all uses.

Thus, referring to FIG. 78, the step portion 1235a includes a first end step 1260 and a second end step 1262, with a central step 1261 between those steps.

FIG. 79 shows an end view of the cartridge 1204. You can see the features shown above.

FIG. 80 shows a side view when viewed toward the side opposite to the side that can be seen in FIG. 78. Parts 1235d and 1235c can be seen.

FIG. 81 shows an enlarged partial view of stage 1235c. The other stages 1235b and 1235d are almost the same, but alternative configurations are possible.

FIG. 81 shows a plan view of the cartridge 1004. Features similar to those described above can be seen.

FIG. 81a shows a schematic enlarged portion along the portion of line 81a-81a of FIG. Features similar to those described above are shown.

Dimensional examples are indicated in the embodiments of FIGS. 78 to 81. Other dimensions are available, but the examples shown are intended to show operational configurations. An example of the dimensions would be as follows. In FIG. 80, EG = 10 to 25 mm, preferably 19 mm, EH = 5 mm, EI = 10 to 40 mm, preferably 32.5 mm, EJ = 30 to 60 mm, preferably 46, angle XY = 15 ° to 75 °, more preferably. 30 ° ~ 60 °, typically 45 °, radius 12 = 2 ~ 10mm, more preferably 6mm, EK = 35mm, EL = 20mm, EM = 17.3mm, EN = 20mm, EO = 13mm, EP in Figure 81a = 25mm, EQ = 30mm, ER = 35mm, ES = 9.53mm and ET = 3.6mm.

More generally, the embodiments of FIGS. 78-81a were intended to show general principles applicable with many of the variants featured herein. In particular, a large number of contour portions and contour portions of the contour surface of the seal configuration can be provided, and it is not required to use the same number of contour positions along both sides of the cartridge, nor is it required to be symmetrical.

As described above, the various stepped portions can be the same as each other, but they can also be different from each other.

E. Further examples of filter cartridges, Figures 82-85 As shown above, the contour portion of the housing seal configuration is shown to project away from the end of the cartridge having the handle (or inlet flow surface). More generally, the housing seal configuration is generally located adjacent to one end of the cartridge, with the protruding portion of the contour shape (or contour portion of the housing seal configuration) generally separated from that end in the illustrated example. , The direction towards the opposite end. An alternative configuration is also available.

An example is shown in FIGS. 82-85. In this case, the filter cartridge 1304 may be substantially the same as the filter cartridge described above, having a first flow end and a second flow end facing each other, and facing ends or flow surfaces 1315a, 1315b. Includes a medium 1315 with, a housing seal configuration 1320 with facing surfaces 1335, 1336, a shield or sheath 1316, and a handle configuration 1350. However, the contour shape is shown on surface 1336 as 1336c, and no contour is formed on the opposite surface 1335.

Also, in the illustrated example, the contour portion 1336c is a protruding portion, but one could be a protruding portion, one could be a concave portion, or both could be concave portions. Further, although each portion is oriented without a peripheral concave portion, an alternative configuration is possible.

FIG. 82 provides an end view of cartridge 1304. FIG. 84 provides a plan view. FIG. 85 provides a long side view of cartridge 1304.

The embodiments of FIGS. 82-85 generally show that the principles of the present application are not intended to be limited to configurations in which protrusions are generally formed from surface 1315a to surface 1315b. The protrusions can also extend from both sides. Further, in FIG. 82, the peripheral edge 1320e does not have a protrusion / recess contour. This merely indicates that any embodiment could be provided without the optional edge contour, if desired.

It could also be applied to configurations where each of the surfaces 1335, 1336 (or a similar surface in another embodiment) has a member with a protrusion / contour configuration. Furthermore, not all members are required to be protrusions or recesses, some members could be protrusions and some could be recesses.

F. Some general applicable principles and features 1. Features related to seal symmetry / asymmetry Various embodiments will be described with respect to the embodiments of FIGS. 50 to 85 and FIGS. 1 to 49 described above. Symmetry / asymmetry features are described for the housing seal configuration. The techniques described herein allow for a variety of possibilities.

The first concept characterized in terms of symmetry is rotational symmetry. Rotational symmetry as described herein is symmetry in rotation about an axis extending through the center of the cartridge in the direction between opposing flow ends or flow surfaces. This shaft can be characterized as a central shaft when the housing seal configuration is extended. The seal member housing or seal configuration is rotationally symmetric, or 180 ° rotationally symmetric, if naturally aligned when rotated 180 °. Examples of rotational symmetry or 180 ° rotational symmetry are provided, for example, by the embodiment shown in FIG. On the other hand, the example of FIG. 78 shows rotational asymmetry. That is, the configuration will not naturally align unless it is completely rotated 360 °.

Planar symmetry or plane asymmetry can also be defined for the housing seal configuration or seal member. In the case of a configuration having a long cross-sectional axis and a short axis, the long axis plane is generally a plane that passes through the center of the housing seal configuration with a long dimension, and the short plane is a short that is perpendicular to the long dimension at the center of the long dimension. It will be a plane that passes through the dimensions. For any plane defined, plane symmetry would be a situation where the housing seal configuration defines a mirror image on the side opposite to the first side of the plane. In the case of asymmetry, such a mirror image would not exist.

An example of long-dimensional plane symmetry is provided, for example, in the embodiment of FIG. The long-dimensional plane asymmetry is reflected, for example, in the embodiment of FIG. 57.

Short-dimensional plane symmetry is shown in the embodiment of FIG. Short-dimensional plane asymmetry is shown, for example, in the embodiment of FIG.

The configuration can have both long-dimensional plane symmetry and short-dimensional plane symmetry. The configuration can have long-dimensional plane symmetry and short-dimensional plane asymmetry. The configuration can have long-dimensional asymmetry and short-dimensional symmetry. The configuration can be asymmetric with respect to each of the long and short planes.

The various configurations in the variants featured herein are applicable in combination with any kind of symmetry or asymmetry featured. The selected symmetric / asymmetric features for rotation and the two plane definitions can be effectively used in a variety of ways.

Rotational symmetry can be used, for example, to allow the cartridge to rotate in one of multiple orientations for mounting, eg, in one of two orientations that may be convenient for some applications. On the other hand, if it is desired to allow only one rotation, for example to manage possible MAFS (mass airflow sensor) problems or other problems, this can be addressed as well. In addition, a combination of symmetric / asymmetric features can be used to provide a cartridge with a unique appearance for any selected system. This facilitates maintenance, i.e., recognition of the appropriate maintenance parts for the system of interest.

2. Definition of stage In many of the embodiments featured herein, the contour axial surface portion of the protrusion / receiving housing axial seal configuration is shown as having a step (or step) configuration. Generally speaking, each contour portion in the contour plane does not extend beyond about 200 mm, typically more than about 180 mm, along or around the medium. Typically within the step area, each step is at least 5 mm, usually at least 10 mm, often at least 20 mm, often at least 30 mm, sometimes at least 40 mm, usually within the range of 10-80 mm. It has a non-contoured (flat) portion that extends in length.

Typically if the contour contains multiple steps, each step is at least 2 mm, often at least 5 mm, typically at least 8 mm, eg at least 10 mm, with the maximum undulation from the adjacent portion of the housing seal surface. , Usually 80 mm or less, and in many applications it is extended within the range of 10 mm or more and 60 mm or less.

Generally, each step is a transition to the next, and the extension angle of the linear transition to the first step or other flat part of the seal configuration is within the range of about 35 ° to 85 °. Yes, the radius of curvature at each end is not a sharp curve to facilitate engagement with the housing surface. The radius of curvature where the transition engages with the flat perimeter (one of the steps of the adjacent axial sealing surface or the non-contoured portion) is at least 2 mm, usually in the range of 2-10 mm, often. It has a radius within the range of 4 mm or more and 8 mm or less. In some cases, the radius of curvature can be characterized as having a radius of at least 8 mm and can be quite large. The problem associated with the radius of curvature at the transition end of similar size (not the radius that curves sharply enough to prevent sealing) is different from the problem of adjusting the radius of curvature at the larger end within the range. The radius of curvature should typically be large enough to obtain a proper seal, but not large enough to require an overly long perimeter, which is undesirable for managing migration. An example of those ends of the transition is shown in Z in Figure 80.

Further, when the peripheral edge portion has a recess in the direction toward the medium, the contour has an end transition region at a position where it engages with the non-contour portion of the edge portion. An example is shown by R in Figure 90. Typically, the radius of curvature at those positions should be in the range of 2 mm or more and 6 mm or less for convenience of transition.

Typically, for example, as shown in FIG. 80a, when a step is formed in the region, the step portion of each protrusion is the non-contour surface of the next adjacent step or the non-contour of the same axial sealing surface. Arranged with non-contoured parts in a plane approximately parallel to the parts, those planes are separated by at least 2 mm, usually at least 5 mm, and in some cases at least 10 mm. In some cases, this separation distance can be very large, for example at least 20 mm. Those planes can be understood by referring to the part indicated by P in FIG. 80a.

3. General application of the technique to another embodiment Certain features and techniques generally set forth herein with respect to any given embodiment may be applicable to or adapted to apply in other embodiments. The featured embodiments are not intended to be mutually exclusive with respect to the features available for use. Thus, features of alternative handle configurations, media and media pack configurations, and specific housing seal configurations can be used with a variety of techniques to be characterized.

V. General overview and characterization A. General overview The present disclosure presents techniques and features for filter cartridges. Typically, filter cartridges are of a type that can be used as replacement parts in air cleaner assemblies. A typical application would be to filter the combustion air directed to the intake of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle or other equipment.

Generally speaking, filter cartridges are provided. The cartridge has a first flow end and a second flow end and includes a filter medium arranged to filter the fluid (air) induced between the flow ends. The characteristics of various types of media having a medium (groove or fold tip) extending between the first flow end and the second flow end are shown. The term "groove" is intended to describe folds or other types of waveforms.

An example of a medium type has a grooved sheet fixed to a facing sheet and includes a medium formed as a medium pack. Such a configuration may be formed in a corrugated form or may include a stack of individual pieces of a single-sided medium.

Another type of medium characterized is such that the cartridge has a plurality of separated fold media extending between a first flow end and a second flow end.

The first flow end and the second flow end can form a flow surface, that is, a surface of the cartridge into which the air flow flows in or out.

Generally, the filter cartridge includes a seal configuration. The seal configuration may be, for example, a pinch seal configuration. Generally, the seal configuration has a first axial housing engagement (seal) surface, i.e., an axially oriented (seal) surface configured to engage the housing surface with a seal during use. First Axial Seal Housing The seal engaging surface includes a contour axial surface portion having at least a first housing engaging projection / recess member.

Generally speaking, the seal configuration featured herein includes a sealing member having an opposing first axially oriented surface and a second axially oriented surface, one of which is The first axial seal housing engagement surface. When the sealing member is a pinch sealing member, each of the opposing axial planes engages the housing in typical applications. Flexible lip members can be provided in some configurations, one surface of the lip member engaging the housing and the opposite surface engaging the seal support of the cartridge.

A typical housing seal configuration or seal member featured herein has an outer peripheral peripheral edge or edge surface. The peripheral edge or peripheral edge thereof is the edge or surface of the sealing member that faces away from the medium extending along the periphery of the cartridge. In the examples of the various configurations featured herein, this seal configuration includes an optional first member of the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour. In a particular example, this first member of the peripheral edge protrusion recess contour comprises a first recess member, the first recess member comprising one concave portion or a plurality of separated concave portions on the peripheral edge surface. It may be.

The first housing engaging protrusion / recess member of the contour axial sealing surface portion can include either a recess member or a protrusion member. In fact, in some configurations, this can include both recessed and protruding members.

Among the variants characterized to be usable herein is a configuration in which the first housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion, including two or more spaced protrusions. The characteristics of the example are shown.

In an example of a particular configuration featured herein, the first housing engaging projection / recess member is on a first end step portion that projects towards the flow end, at the same selected flow end. Includes a central step that projects toward and a second end step that projects toward the same selected flow end, where the central step is a first end step and a second end step. Arranged between the portions, the central step portion has a step structure that protrudes toward the flow end portion selected from each of the first end step portion and the second step portion. In a typical configuration, each of the first end step, the second end step and the center step does not include an axial contour shape and has a peripheral length of at least 5 mm, typically at least. It extends over a peripheral length of 10 mm, often beyond that.

An example is illustrated and described in which the seal configuration includes both a housing protrusion / recess member of the axially sealed surface and a peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour of the peripheral peripheral edge of the seal configuration, the two of which are axial to each other. They are aligned, i.e., along the same perimeter (typically of the elastic seal member) of the seal configuration. This would be a typical configuration, whether each member contains one member or two or more members.

As shown above, a selected example is described in which the seal configuration is a pinch seal configuration having an outer peripheral edge surface, a first pinch seal engaging surface and a second pinch seal engaging surface facing each other. One of the opposing first pinch seal (housing engaging) surfaces and second pinch heel (housing engaging) surfaces comprises a contour portion and has at least a first housing engaging projection / recess member. Axial seal engaging surface. Pinch seal housing with first housing engagement protrusion / recess member The pinch seal housing engagement surface itself on the opposite side of the housing engagement surface is not contoured and is perfectly continuous, for example, along the perimeter of the medium. A specific example is shown that extends to the surrounding area.

In a typical configuration where the housing seal configuration includes a mold-in-place molding member with a first pinch-seal housing engagement surface and a second pinch-seal housing engagement surface facing each other, those surfaces are at least 5 mm. So, they are separated by a distance of 50 mm or less.

In a typical configuration that includes an optional perimeter ridge / recess contour, the contour is typically at least 1 mm with respect to the adjacent portion of the rim and has an undulation of 10 mm or less.

If there is a peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour, any portion of it is typically extended along the perimeter by a distance of at least 5 mm, typically at least 10 mm.

As described above, the medium can have a plurality of shapes including a shape having a non-circular outer peripheral portion such as an oval-shaped peripheral portion or a rectangular peripheral portion. In a typical configuration, the outer circumference has at least one linear portion extending over a distance of at least 40 mm. In such cases, typically any peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour will include a portion that overlaps its linear side portion of the medium. Also typically, the protrusion / recess contours of the axially sealed surface are oriented in the same manner as the overlapping linear sides. As a matter of course, there may be two or more linear side portions, and there may be two or more protrusion concave contour portions.

In fact, this example is shown as an example in which the medium has an oval-shaped perimeter including two opposing linear sides and two opposing curved ends, and an example in which the medium has a rectangular perimeter. In the various examples described herein, the first flow end of the medium is the inlet flow end and the seal configuration is located adjacent to the inlet flow end, but from the inlet flow end. They may be arranged slightly apart. An alternative configuration is also possible.

An example is shown in which the first flow end and the second flow end facing each other are substantially flat, and the seal configuration is substantially arranged on a plane parallel to one of the flow ends. An alternative configuration is also possible.

The configurations featured herein are conveniently applied to cartridges such that the medium has a significantly larger dimension or extension distance between the first flow end and the second flow end. is there. For example, this dimension is at least 80 mm, usually at least 100 mm, often 150 mm or more, for example 200 mm or more.

The features of the modified example of the filter cartridge including the handle configuration are shown. The handle configuration may be provided at the first flow end portion and the second flow end portion so as to project in a direction away from the pinch seal member. In some embodiments, an example of a peripheral handle configuration is shown that includes a configuration with at least two spaced optional handle protrusions. An example of having two separated handle protrusions arranged adjacent to opposite portions of the media pack in the peripheral direction will be described.

Another type of handle member characterized is a handle member having a central handle bridge located above the flow end of the medium.

These handle configurations can be effectively used in connection with the various configurations featured herein and in other applications.

In some examples, the seal configuration comprises a seal member or elastic seal member that is part of the mold-in-place molding member, and the handle member is secured to the rest of the cartridge by the mold-in-place molding member. In order to realize this, the handle member may include, for example, a peripheral rim portion for fixing the handle member to the mold-in-place molding member. In an example of a particular configuration featured herein, the seal configuration comprises an axial pinch seal having a first housing engaging surface and a second housing engaging surface facing each other, and the cartridge is provided by the receiving space. The pinch seal housing engaging surface is arranged so as to be arranged in a portion of the pinch seal configuration separated from the medium. The receiving space can be configured to extend perfectly along the periphery of the medium and is configured to accept a portion of the housing projection between the engaging surfaces of the medium during mounting. It is possible.

In these examples, it is possible to form a contour shape on the inner surface of the axial pinch seal configuration in the radial direction, for example, toward the engaging surface of the second pinch seal housing. In the featured example, an inclined portion that inclines away from the medium as it extends towards the engagement surface of the second pinch seal housing is shown and described. In certain examples characterized herein, the housing seal configuration includes a portion molded directly into the filter medium. When this is done, the portion is typically adjacent to the flow end, i.e. the first (typically the inlet during use).

In some of the examples featured herein, the seal configuration is located on a seal support, typically a rigid preform member. This allows the seal configuration to be supported to some extent during use. In certain examples, the seal support is placed in a preform shell that surrounds the media pack. However, whether or not a seal support is provided, the preform shell can provide some effect in protecting the medium.

When a preform shell is used, the preform shell can be provided with an end grid extending along the flow end of the medium. The preform shell may further include a receptacle extending from its flow end to a position surrounded by the medium.

In some configurations, the seal configuration may include a preform gasket member placed around the filter medium rather than being mold-in-place molded. An example feature of such a gasket member is shown, the gasket member comprising a flexible seal or lip member arranged to bend in a direction of contact and disengagement with respect to the pressure surface of the seal support. A particular example gasket having a first side lip or flange and a second side lip or flange is shown. In one example, one of the flanges or lips, especially the one that engages the housing, is thicker than the first flange. A typical such preform gasket member would be formed from tpe (thermoplastic elastomer).

As shown above, the characteristics of an example of a cartridge configuration when the medium pack has a non-circular outer peripheral portion are shown. Often the cartridge configuration is a cross section with long and short dimensions, although the ratio of long to short dimensions is at least 1.3: 1, typically 1.3: 1 or more and 5: 1 or less. , Alternative numbers are also possible. Some examples are provided where the ratio range is greater than or equal to 1.5: 1 and less than or equal to 3.5: 1.

A significant portion of the contoured axial housing engagement surface (or sealing surface) is flat, typically 10% of which is flat, and in most cases at least 20% of which is flat, often An example of a configuration is provided in which 50% or more is flat in the case of.

When the perimeter peripheral edges are contoured and their contours are recesses, the depth of the recesses in the direction towards the medium is typically at least 1 mm. In most cases, the maximum dimension of the recess in the direction towards the medium is at least 2 mm.

Typically, when the contour portion of the first axial housing engaging surface is a protruding member, the maximum dimension of the protruding member from the adjacent non-contoured portion of the surface is at least 2 mm axially, typically Is at least 3 mm, often 5 mm or more. When the housing seal surface contains protrusions For a plane perpendicular to the direction of the flow end to the housing seal surface, for example, within the range of 35 ° to 85 °, typically 40 ° to 80 °, often It is possible to provide a step transition portion extending at an angle within the range of 45 ° or more and 60 ° or less.

It should be noted that the outer peripheral peripheral edge surface may be provided with a portion that tapers toward the medium pack in the axial direction.

In the present specification, the characteristics of various symmetrical configurations are shown. For example, the outer peripheral edge surface can be provided asymmetrically in the radial direction about the central axis, as does the housing engaging surface or sealing surface. Alternatively, one or both can be provided 180 ° rotationally symmetric about the central axis.

Also, regarding the seal configuration, the characteristics of the plane-symmetrical and plane-asymmetrical configurations are shown with respect to each or both of the long-dimensional stepped surface and the short-dimensional cross section.

Further, according to the present disclosure, the characteristics of the air cleaner assembly are shown. A typical air cleaner assembly includes a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and a filter cartridge that is located inside the housing and according to the various features of the characterization provided herein. The first axial seal housing engagement surface is an assembly that is deflected by the other housing portion towards a portion of one housing portion. Often the first axial seal housing engagement surface is deflected towards the housing seal surface surrounded by a peripheral flange or wall portion.

Typically, the housing seal surface comprises at least one peripheral discontinuous protrusion / recess contour member that fits or engages with a protrusion / recess contour member on the housing seal surface of the cartridge.

The housing seal surface, typically on each of the cartridge and the housing, can include one step member, often two or more step members.

An example is described in which the housing further has a peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour on the peripheral flange that is configured to engage or fit the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour of the cartridge, i.e. the cartridge seal member. To.

Of the access cover where the housing includes an access cover portion with a pressure flange, the housing includes a base portion with a sealing surface, and the pressure flange projects at least sufficiently into the base portion when the cartridge is sealed in place. The features of the example, such as being placed in parts, are shown.

The features of an example are shown in which the housing has a base portion having a housing inflow port configuration and a housing inflow port configuration, eg, the housing inflow port configuration is a side inlet. The housing access cover, which would be the end in this situation, would not have an inlet or outlet for the entire housing.

Often the housing comprises a portion having a curved flow guiding surface or a surface containing blades oriented to divert the flow from the side inlet towards the cartridge.

It is not specifically required that the air cleaner assembly, components and features be applied with all the features provided herein in order to obtain any advantage in accordance with the present disclosure . The teachings are intended to be applicable in a variety of configurations, including alternative configurations to the illustrated configurations and alternative combinations to specific combinations of the illustrated features.

B. Selected characterization 1. A filter cartridge, between (a) the opposing first and second flow ends and (b) the opposing first and second flow ends. It comprises a medium arranged to filter the fluid flow in, and (c) a seal configuration having a first axial seal housing engaging surface, (i) said first axial seal housing engaging surface. , A filter cartridge comprising a contour axial sealing surface portion having at least a first housing engaging protrusion / recess member. 2. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 1, wherein the medium extends over a distance of at least 80 mm in the direction between the first flow end and the second flow end. .. 3. (a) Any of features 1 and 2, characterized in that the medium extends over a distance of at least 150 mm in the direction between the first flow end and the second flow end. Or the filter cartridge described in item 1. 4. (a) Any of features 1 to 3, characterized in that the medium extends over a distance of at least 180 mm in the direction between the first flow end and the second flow end. Or the filter cartridge described in item 1. 5. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 4, wherein the seal configuration includes a peripheral peripheral edge surface having a first member of a peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour. 6. (a) The filter cartridge according to Feature 5, wherein the first member of the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour includes the first recess member.

7. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 5 and 6, wherein the first member of the peripheral protrusion / recess contour includes a plurality of separated recesses on the peripheral edge surface. 8. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 7, wherein the first housing engaging protrusion / recess member includes at least one protrusion member. 9. (a) The first housing engaging projection / recess member projects toward a selected flow end and a first end step that projects toward the selected flow end. The central step portion includes a second end step portion projecting toward the selected flow end portion, and (i) the central step portion is the first end step portion and the second end step portion. Arranged between the end step portions, (ii) the central step portion projects towards a flow end selected from each of the first end step portion and the second end step portion. The filter cartridge according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the filter cartridge is made. 10. (a) Each of the first end step portion, the second end step portion and the center step portion is extended over a peripheral length of at least 5 mm without an axial contour shape. The filter cartridge according to feature 9, which is characterized in that. 11. (a) Each of the first end step portion, the second end step portion and the center step portion is extended over a peripheral length of at least 10 mm without an axial contour shape. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 9 and 10. 12. (a) Each of the first end step portion, the second end step portion and the center step portion is extended over a peripheral length of at least 20 mm without an axial contour shape. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 7 to 11, characterized in that. 13. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least one portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 30 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 12.

14. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least one portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 10 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 13. 15. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least one portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 20 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 14. 16. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least one portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 30 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 15. 17. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least two portions each extending over a peripheral perimeter distance of at least 30 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of the features 1 to 16. 18. (a) The housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least one protrusion including at least one portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 40 mm without contouring. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 17.

19. (a) The seal configuration includes a peripheral peripheral edge surface having a first member of the peripheral peripheral protrusion / recess contour, and (b) the housing protrusion / recess member is the first edge seal housing section. Feature 1 characterized by including a protruding portion arranged at a portion of the mating surface, which is positioned to be axially aligned with the first member of the peripheral protrusion / recess contour of the peripheral edge surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of 18 to 18. 20. (a) The peripheral peripheral protrusion recess contour includes a first edge contour portion and a second edge contour portion separated from each other, and (b) the housing engaging protrusion / recess member is a separated shaft. A feature 19 including the directional sealing surface contour portion, (i) each axial sealing surface contour portion being axially aligned with one of the related edge contour portions of the edge contour portion. The filter cartridge described. 21. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 20, wherein the seal configuration comprises a peripheral edge having at least two spaced concave portions. 22. (a) The filter cartridge according to the feature 21, wherein the first housing engaging protrusion / recess member includes each concave portion of the peripheral edge surface and a protrusion portion aligned in the axial direction. .. 23. (a) The seal configuration comprises a pinch seal configuration having an outer peripheral edge surface, a first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a second pinch seal housing engaging surface facing each other, and (i) said. At least one selected pinch seal housing engaging surface of the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface has at least the first housing engaging projection / recess member. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 22, wherein the filter cartridge includes the contour axial sealing surface portion having the same. twenty four. (a) The second pinch seal housing engaging surface includes the contour axial sealing surface portion having the first housing engaging projection / recess member, and (b) the opposed first pinch seal housing. The filter cartridge according to feature 23, wherein the engaging surface does not include a housing engaging protrusion / recess member. 25. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 24, wherein the first pinch seal housing engaging surface comprises a fully continuous non-contour pressure flange engaging portion along the perimeter of the medium.

26. (a) From feature 23, wherein the distance between the facing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is at least 5 mm and 50 mm or less. The filter cartridge according to any one of 25. 27. (a) The pinch seal configuration has a peripheral peripheral edge with a first member of the peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour, and (i) the first member of the peripheral peripheral edge projection / recess contour. The filter cartridge according to feature 26, wherein the member is at least 1 mm and has a maximum contour undulation of 10 mm or less. 28. (a) Peripheral Peripheral Edge Protrusion / Recess The first member of the contour contour comprises a portion having a linear edge portion extending over a peripheral peripheral distance of at least 5 mm. Filter cartridge. 29. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 27 and 28, wherein the first member of the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour is provided with a recess member. 30. (a) The first member of the peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour of the pinch seal configuration comprises a recess member having at least two spaced concave members. The filter cartridge according to any one item. 31. A filter cartridge, the fluid between (a) the opposing first and second flow ends and (b) the opposing first and second flow ends. It comprises a filter medium arranged to filter the flow and (c) a pinch seal configuration, wherein the pinch seal configuration is a first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a second pinch seal housing engaging surface facing the outer peripheral edge surface. It has a pinch seal housing engaging surface, and (i) the second pinch seal housing engaging surface of the facing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is It is a contour housing engaging surface, and (ii) the first pinch seal housing engaging surface of the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is the second pinch seal housing engaging surface. Pinch Seal Housing Engagement Surface Contour A filter cartridge characterized by having a continuous pressure flange engagement portion along a perimeter that is not contoured as a mirror image of the housing engagement surface. 32. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 31, wherein the pressure flange engaging portion continuous along the periphery is a non-contour pressure flange engaging portion. 33. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 31 and 32, wherein the peripheral edge surface of the pinch seal configuration includes a first member of a peripheral protrusion / recess edge contour. .. 34. (a) The contour housing constituent surface is a portion of the pinch seal configuration, and the housing engagement is arranged at a portion of the contour of the peripheral peripheral protrusion / recess edge portion that is aligned in the axial direction of the first member. The filter cartridge according to feature 33, which comprises a protruding member. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 31 and 32, wherein the peripheral edge surface of the pinch seal configuration includes a first member of a peripheral protrusion / recess edge contour. 34. (a) The contour housing constituent surface is a portion of the pinch seal configuration, and the housing engagement is arranged at a portion of the contour of the peripheral peripheral protrusion / recessed edge portion that is aligned in the axial direction of the first member. The filter cartridge according to feature 33, which comprises a protruding member. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 31 and 32, wherein the peripheral edge surface of the pinch seal configuration includes a first member of a peripheral protrusion / recess edge contour. 34. (a) The contour housing constituent surface is a portion of the pinch seal configuration, and the housing engagement is arranged at a portion of the contour of the peripheral peripheral protrusion / recessed edge portion that is aligned in the axial direction of the first member. The filter cartridge according to feature 33, which comprises a protruding member.

35. (a) The peripheral peripheral protrusion / recess edge contour includes a first edge contour portion and a second edge contour portion separated from each other, and (b) the housing engaging protrusion / recess member is Includes axial seal surface contour portions that are separated from each other, and (i) each axial seal surface contour portion is axially aligned with one related edge contour portion of the edge contour portions. The filter cartridge according to the feature 34. 36. (a) The first member of the peripheral protrusion / recess edge contour contour according to any one of features 34 and 35, characterized in that the peripheral surface contains a plurality of separated recesses. Filter cartridge. 37. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 31 to 36, wherein the contour housing engaging surface comprises at least one housing engaging projection member comprising a plurality of step portions. 38. (a) Peripheral peripheral edge surfaces of the seal configuration include a portion of the first member of the peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour that overlaps the linear portion of the medium. The filter cartridge according to any one item. 39. (a) Any one of features 1 to 38, wherein the first axial seal housing engaging surface comprises at least one housing engaging projection member that overlaps the linear portion of the medium. The filter cartridge described in. 40. (a) The first flow end of the filter cartridge medium is the inlet flow end, (b) the seal configuration is arranged adjacent to the inlet flow end, and (c) the first. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 39, wherein the axial seal housing engaging surface of the cartridge is oriented in a direction toward the second flow end portion of the cartridge. 41.

42. (a) The filter cartridge according to Feature 41, wherein the minimum distance between the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surfaces and the second pinch seal housing engaging surfaces is at least 10 mm. 43. (a) The filter according to any one of features 41 and 42, wherein the maximum distance between the facing first pinch seal surface and the second pinch seal surface is 50 mm or less. cartridge. 44. (a) The filter according to any one of features 41 to 43, wherein the maximum distance between the facing first pinch seal surface and the second pinch seal surface is 40 mm or less. cartridge. 45. (a) In any one of features 1 to 44, which includes the pinch seal member and a handle configuration that protrudes from the first flow end portion and the second flow end portion in a direction away from the second flow end portion. The filter cartridge described. 46. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 45, wherein the handle configuration is a peripheral handle configuration. 47. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 45 and 46, wherein the handle configuration comprises at least two spaced handle protrusions. 48. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 47, wherein the two separated handle protrusions are arranged on adjacent portions of the medium facing each other in the peripheral direction. 49. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 45, comprising a handle member including a central handle bridge located at the first flow end of the cartridge. 50. (a) The seal configuration includes a portion of a mold-in-place molding member, and (b) the handle member is secured to the rest of the cartridge by the mold-in-place molding member. The filter cartridge according to feature 49. 51. (a) The handle member includes a peripheral rim portion, and the handle member is arranged so that the peripheral rim portion is arranged close to the medium with respect to the central handle bridge. Feature The filter cartridge according to any one of 49 and 50. 52. (A) The filter cartridge according to feature 51, wherein the handle member is fixed to the medium by a mold-in-place member. 53. (a) The seal configuration comprises an axial pinch seal having a first housing engaging surface and a second housing engaging surface facing each other, and (b) the second pinch seal housing engaging surface The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 52, which is a portion of the pinch seal configuration and is arranged in a portion separated from the medium by a receiving space. 54. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 53, wherein the receiving space extends perfectly along the perimeter of the medium. 55. (a) The radial inner surface of the axial pinch seal configuration aligned with and surrounding the receiving space is contoured towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 53 and 54. 56. (a) The radial inner surface of the pinch seal configuration comprises a first inclined portion that inclines towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface in a direction away from the medium. The filter cartridge according to the feature 55. (a) The seal configuration comprises an axial pinch seal having a first housing engaging surface and a second housing engaging surface facing each other, and (b) the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is said. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 52, which is a portion having a pinch seal configuration and is arranged in a portion separated from the medium by a receiving space. 54. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 53, wherein the receiving space extends perfectly along the perimeter of the medium. 55. (a) The radial inner surface of the axial pinch seal configuration aligned with and surrounding the receiving space is contoured towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 53 and 54. 56. (a) The radial inner surface of the pinch seal configuration comprises a first inclined portion that inclines towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface in a direction away from the medium. The filter cartridge according to the feature 55. (a) The seal configuration comprises an axial pinch seal having a first housing engaging surface and a second housing engaging surface facing each other, and (b) the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is said. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 52, which is a portion having a pinch seal configuration and is arranged in a portion separated from the medium by a receiving space. 54. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 53, wherein the receiving space extends perfectly along the perimeter of the medium. 55. (a) The radial inner surface of the axial pinch seal configuration aligned with and surrounding the receiving space is contoured towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 53 and 54. 56. (a) The radial inner surface of the pinch seal configuration comprises a first inclined portion that inclines towards the second pinch seal housing engaging surface in a direction away from the medium. The filter cartridge according to the feature 55.

57. (a) The radial inner surface of the pinch seal configuration is arranged adjacent to the first inclined portion and has the first inclined portion at an angle different from that of the first inclined portion with respect to the medium. 2. The filter cartridge according to feature 56, comprising a second portion extending towards the engagement surface of the pinch seal housing. 58. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 57, wherein the seal configuration comprises a mold-in-place molded portion. 59. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 58, wherein the housing seal configuration includes a portion molded directly into the filter medium. 60. (a) Described in any one of features 1 to 59, wherein the seal configuration comprises a portion molded directly into the filter medium at a position adjacent to the first flow end. Filter cartridge. 61. (A) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 60, wherein the seal configuration comprises a molded-in-place molded portion of the seal support. 62. (a) The seal configuration comprises a mold-in-place molded portion of the seal support, (i) the seal support has a plurality of penetrating openings and the mold-in-place. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 61, wherein each portion of the molded portion extends through the opening. 63. (a) any one of features 1-62, comprising a preform shell that surrounds the medium and extends along at least a portion of the axial length of the medium. Filter cartridge. 64. (a) any one of features 1-63, comprising a preform shell that surrounds the medium and extends along at least 80% of the axial length of the medium. Filter cartridge.

65. (a) The seal configuration includes a molded-in-place molded portion of the pinch seal support, and (b) the seal support is integrated with the preform shell. And the filter cartridge according to any one of 64. 66. (a) The preform shell comprises an end grid that is adjacent to the second flow end and extends along at least a portion of the second flow end. Feature The filter cartridge according to any one of 63 to 65. 67. (a) The filter art ridge according to any one of features 1 to 66, comprising a receiving projection extending from the second flow end of the medium to a position surrounded by the medium. .. 68. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 67, wherein the receiving protrusion defines a receiving recess protruding from the second flow end into the medium. 69. (a) The filter cartridge according to each of features 67 and 68, wherein the receiving projection is integrated with a support including a shell surrounding the medium pack. 70. (a) From Feature 1 comprising a shell arranged around the medium pack, wherein the shell has an end extending outward from the first flow end of the medium. The filter cartridge according to any one of 69. 71. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 70, wherein the handle support comprises a handle configuration having at least one handle member made of a molded in place molded material. .. 72. (A) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 71, wherein the seal configuration includes a preform gasket member arranged around the filter medium. 73.

74. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 73, wherein the preform gasket member comprises a flexible lip arranged to bend with respect to the pressure surface. 75. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 74, wherein the preform gasket comprises a first side flange adjacent to the pressure surface. 76. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 75, wherein the preform gasket has a second side flange disposed apart from the first side flange. 77. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 76, wherein the second side flange is thicker than the first side flange. 78. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 72 to 77, wherein the preform gasket member is formed of a thermoplastic elastomer. 79. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 72 to 79, wherein the seal configuration comprises a peripheral pinch seal gasket surrounding the medium. 80. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 79, wherein the medium has a non-circular perimeter having a cross section having a long dimension to short dimension ratio of at least 1.3: 1. .. 81. (a) Any one of features 1 to 80, characterized in that the medium has a non-circular perimeter having a cross section having a long dimension to short dimension ratio in the range 1.3: 1 to 5: 1. The filter cartridge described in the section. 82. (a) Any of Features 1 to 81 characterized in that the medium has a non-circular perimeter having a cross section having a long dimension to short dimension ratio within the range of 1.5: 1 or more and 3.5: 1 or less. Or the filter cartridge described in item 1. 83. (a) Any one of features 1-82, wherein the first axial seal housing engagement surface comprises a flat portion extending along at least 10% of the periphery of the medium. The filter cartridge described in the section. 84. (a) The first axial seal housing engaging surface comprises a flat portion extending along at least 20% of the periphery of the medium according to any one of features 1 to 83. Described filter cartridge. 85. (a) The aspect according to any one of features 1 to 84, wherein the outer peripheral peripheral edge surface of the seal configuration has at least one recess having a depth of at least 1 mm in the direction toward the medium. Filter cartridge. 86. (a) The item according to any one of features 1 to 84, wherein the outer peripheral edge surface of the seal configuration has a plurality of recesses each having a depth of at least 1 mm in the direction toward the medium. Filter cartridge. 87. (a) The aspect according to any one of features 1 to 86, wherein the outer peripheral edge surface of the seal configuration has at least one recess at a depth of at least 2 mm in the direction toward the medium. Filter cartridge.

88. (a) The item according to any one of features 1 to 87, wherein the outer peripheral surface of the seal configuration has a plurality of recesses each having a depth of at least 2 mm in the direction toward the medium. Filter cartridge. 89. (a) At least one axial protrusion engaging surface contains a plurality of protrusions, (i) the axial protrusion is at least 2 mm axially from an adjacent portion of the first axial seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 88, which is characterized by being extended. 90. (a) The first axial seal housing engaging surface comprises a plurality of protrusions, (i) at least two of the protrusions are adjacent portions of the first axial seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 89, which is characterized by extending at least 2 mm in the axial direction from the filter cartridge. 91. (a) The first axial seal housing engaging surface contains a plurality of protrusions, and (i) at least two of the protrusions are adjacent portions of the first axial seal housing engaging surface. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 90, which is characterized by extending at least 3 mm in the axial direction from the filter cartridge. 92. (a) The first axial seal housing engagement surface includes at least two step transitions, each step transition 35 ° with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction between the flow ends. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 91, which is characterized by extending at an angle in the range of 85 ° or less. 93. (a) The first axial seal housing engagement surface includes at least two step transitions, each step transition 40 with respect to a plane perpendicular to the direction between the flow ends. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 92, characterized in that it extends at an angle in the range of ° or more and 80 ° or less. 94.

95. (a) The first housing engaging protrusion / recessed member is characterized by comprising a stepped protrusion member having both side end transition portions having a radius within a range of 2 mm or more and 10 mm or less, respectively. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 94. 96. (a) The first housing engaging protrusion / recessed member is characterized by including a stepped protrusion member each having a transition portion at both ends having a radius within a range of 4 mm or more and 8 mm or less. The filter cartridge according to any one of 1 to 95. 97. (a) Any of features 1-96, wherein the first housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises a stepped protrusion member, each having a bilateral end transition portion having a radius of at least 8 mm. The filter cartridge described in item 1. 98. (a) The seal configuration includes a peripheral peripheral edge surface having a first member of the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour, and (i) the first member of the peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour is at least. It comprises one edge recessed member, each edge recessed member extending between the end transitions on both sides, each end having a radius within a range of 2 mm or more and 6 mm or less. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 97. 99. (a) The first housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least a first portion having a first contour protrusion that extends to the maximum, and (i) the first portion is in the flow direction. Cross-sectional dimension area A₁The housing seal configuration has a second non-contoured portion, and (i) the second portion has a flow direction cross-sectional dimensional area A.₂Has (ii) A₁Is A₂The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 98, which is substantially the same as the above. 100. (a) The first housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least a first portion having a first contour protrusion that extends to the maximum, and (i) the first portion is a flow. Directional cross-sectional dimension area A₁The housing seal configuration has a second non-contoured portion, and (i) the second portion has a flow direction cross-sectional dimensional area A.₂Has (ii) A₁= 0.92 ~ 1.08A₂The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 99, which is characterized by being. 101. (a) The first housing engaging protrusion / recess member comprises at least a first portion having a first contour protrusion that extends to the maximum, and (i) the first portion is a flow. Directional cross-sectional dimension area A₁The housing seal configuration has a second non-contoured portion, and (i) the second portion has a flow direction cross-sectional dimensional area A.₂Has (ii) A₁= 0.95 ~ 1.05A₂The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 100, which is characterized by being. 102. (a) Any one of features 1 to 101, characterized in that the medium is grooved and extended in the direction between the first flow end and the second flow end. The filter cartridge described in the section. 103. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 102, wherein the medium comprises a grooved medium fixed to a face-to-face medium. 104. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 103, wherein the medium comprises a coiled configuration of a grooved medium fixed to a facing medium. 105. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 104, wherein the medium comprises a stack of pieces of a grooved medium fixed to a face-to-face medium. 106. (a) From Feature 1 characterized in that the medium comprises a fold having a fold tip extending in a direction between the first flow end and the second flow end. The filter cartridge according to any one of 105.

107. (a) The filter cartridge according to feature 106, wherein the medium comprises a first fold medium coil surrounding a second fold medium coil. 108. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 107, wherein the medium has a non-circular outer peripheral portion. 109. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 108, wherein the medium has an oval-shaped outer peripheral portion. 110. (A) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 109, wherein the medium has a substantially rectangular outer peripheral portion. 111. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 110, wherein the medium has an outer peripheral portion including at least one linear side portion extending over a distance of at least 40 mm. 112. (a) The medium is any one of features 1 to 111, characterized in that the medium has an oval-shaped outer peripheral portion including two opposing linear side portions and two opposing curved end portions. Filter cartridge. 113. (a) The first flow end of the cartridge is the inlet flow end, (b) the seal configuration is located adjacent to the inlet flow end, and (c) the first. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 112, wherein the axial seal housing engaging surface faces the direction toward the second flow end portion of the cartridge. 114. (a) The first flow end is substantially flat, and (b) the seal configuration is substantially arranged on a plane parallel to the first flow end. The filter cartridge according to any one of 113. 115. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 114, wherein the outer peripheral peripheral edge surface of the pinch seal configuration is asymmetric in the radial direction in the peripheral direction with respect to the central axis. 116. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 115, wherein the housing axial engaging surface member is asymmetric in the radial direction in the peripheral direction with respect to the central axis. 117. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 115, wherein the seal configuration is configured to be 180 ° rotationally symmetric with respect to the central axis. 118. (a) The seal configuration has a long cross-sectional dimension and a short cross-sectional dimension, and (b) the seal configuration is configured to have a long dimension and a plane of symmetry. The filter cartridge according to any one item. 119. (a) The seal member has a long cross-sectional dimension and a short cross-sectional dimension, and (b) the seal configuration is configured to have a plane of symmetry with a short dimension. Features 1 to 115 The filter cartridge according to any one of the above. 120. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 115, wherein the seal configuration does not have 180 ° rotational symmetry with respect to the central axis.

121. A filter cartridge that includes (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium ridge between the first flow end and the second flow end. It comprises an extended filter medium, (b) a seal configuration with an outer peripheral peripheral edge and a first axial seal housing engaging surface, and (i) the peripheral peripheral edge is asymmetric with respect to the central axis. A filter cartridge characterized by being a contour surface. 122. (A) The filter cartridge according to feature 121, wherein the first axial seal housing engaging surface is a contour surface that is asymmetric with respect to the central axis. 123. A filter cartridge that includes (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a groove or fold tip between the first flow end and the second flow end. It comprises a filter medium pack with an extended portion, (b) a housing seal configuration having an outer peripheral peripheral edge and a first axial seal housing engaging surface, and (i) said first axial seal housing. A filter cartridge characterized in that the engaging surface is a contour surface that is asymmetric with respect to the central axis. 124. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 121 to 123, wherein the cartridge is otherwise subject to any one of features 1 to 114.

125. A filter cartridge that includes (a) a first flow end and a second flow end and extends between the first flow end and the second flow end. It comprises a filter medium with grooves or fold tips, (b) a seal configuration with an outer peripheral peripheral edge and a first axial seal housing engaging surface, and (i) the peripheral peripheral edge is a central axis. A filter cartridge characterized by a contour surface having 180 ° rotational symmetry with respect to. 126. (A) The filter cartridge according to feature 125, wherein the first axial seal housing engaging surface is a contour surface having 180 ° symmetry with respect to the central axis.

127. A filter cartridge that includes (a) a first flow end and a second flow end and extends between the first flow end and the second flow end. It comprises a filter medium pack with grooves or fold tips, (b) a housing seal configuration with an outer peripheral peripheral edge and a first axial seal housing engaging surface, and (i) the first axial seal. A filter cartridge characterized in that the housing engaging surface is a contour surface having 180 ° rotational symmetry with respect to the central axis. 128. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 125 to 127, wherein the cartridge is otherwise subject to any one of features 1 to 114.

129. A filter cartridge that (a) has a first and second flow end facing each other, and (b) a first and second flow end facing each other. A seal with a filter medium arranged to filter fluid flow between them, and (c) a seal having a first axial housing engagement surface configured to form a seal with a housing portion during use. A second having a configuration in which the axial seal housing engaging surface provides a non-contoured portion to the first plane, is parallel to the first plane, and is separated from the first plane by a distance of at least 2 mm. A filter cartridge characterized in that it is contoured to provide a contour portion having a portion on the navel plane. 130. (a) The axial seal housing engaging surface is contoured to form a seal with the housing portion during use, and the axial seal housing engaging surface is not on the first plane. It is characterized in that it provides a contour portion and is contoured to provide a contour portion that is parallel to the first plane and has a portion in a second plane that is separated from the first plane by at least 5 mm. The filter cartridge according to the feature 129. 131. (a) The axial seal housing engagement surface is contoured to form a seal with the housing portion during use, and the axial seal housing engagement surface is not on the first plane. It is characterized in that it provides a contour portion and is contoured to provide a contour portion that is parallel to the first plane and has a portion in a second plane that is separated from the first plane by at least 10 mm. The filter cartridge according to any one of the features 129 and 130. 132. (a) The axial seal housing engaging surface is contoured to form a seal with the housing portion during use, and the axial seal housing engaging surface is a non-contoured portion on a first plane. Is characterized in that it is contoured to provide a contour portion that is parallel to the first plane and has a portion in the second plane that is separated from the first plane by at least 20 mm. Features The filter cartridge according to any one of 129 to 131. 133. (a) The filter cartridge according to any one of features 129 to 132, wherein the cartridge also complies with any one of features 1 to 128.

134. A filter cartridge comprising (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium extending between the first flow end and the second flow end. The medium comprises a groove extending between the flow ends, (b) an outer peripheral surface and an opposing first pinch seal housing engagement surface and a second. The pinch seal configuration comprises a pinch seal housing engaging surface of: (i) the outer peripheral surface has a first member of a protrusion / recess contour and (ii) the opposite first pinch seal housing engagement. A filter cartridge characterized in that at least one of the mating surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface is a contour sealing surface having at least one housing engaging protrusion / recess member.

135. A filter cartridge comprising (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium extending between the first flow end and the second flow end. The medium comprises a groove extending between the flow ends, (c) an outer peripheral surface and an opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a first It comprises a pinch seal configuration having two pinch heel housing engaging surfaces, (i) the second pinch seal housing of the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surfaces and the second pinch seal housing engaging surfaces. The engaging surface is a contour housing engaging surface, and (ii) the first pinch seal housing engaging surface of the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and the second pinch seal housing engaging surface. Is a filter cartridge characterized by having a continuous pressure flange engaging portion along a circumference that is not contoured as a mirror image of the contour housing engaging surface of the second pinch seal housing engaging surface.

136. A filter cartridge having (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium extending between the first flow end and the second flow end. The medium comprises a groove extending between the flow ends, (c) an outer peripheral surface and an opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a first It comprises a pinch seal configuration with two pinch seal housing engaging surfaces, (i) the peripheral surface having a first member of a protruding / recessed contour, and (ii) the opposing first pinch seal housing engagement. The distance between the mating surface and the engaging surface of the second pinch seal housing is at least 5 mm and 50 mm or less, and (iii) the first member of the protrusion / recess contour is at least 1 mm and 10 mm or less. A filter cartridge characterized by having maximum contour undulations.

137. A filter cartridge comprising (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium extending between the first flow end and the second flow end. The medium comprises a groove extending between the flow ends, (b) an outer peripheral surface and an opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a first A filter cartridge comprising a pinch seal configuration having two pinch seal housing engaging surfaces, (i) said peripheral surface having an asymmetric contour surface with respect to the central axis.

138. A filter cartridge having (a) a first flow end and a second flow end, with a medium extending between the first flow end and the second flow end. The medium comprises a groove extending between the flow ends, (b) an outer peripheral surface and an opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surface and a first It comprises a pinch seal configuration having two pinch seal housing engaging surfaces, (i) at least one of the opposing first pinch seal housing engaging surfaces and second pinch seal housing engaging surfaces with respect to the central axis. A filter cartridge characterized by an asymmetric contour surface.

139. A filter cartridge comprising (a) a first flow end and a second flow end facing each other, with a medium between the first flow end and the second flow end. It comprises an extended filter medium pack, (i) the medium includes a groove extended between the flow ends, and (b) a pinch seal configuration with an outer peripheral surface and a pinch seal housing engagement surface. A filter cartridge comprising (c) a handle configuration comprising a peripheral handle configuration including at least two spaced handle protrusions arranged adjacent to a portion of the medium facing in the peripheral direction.

140. A filter cartridge comprising (a) a first flow end and a second flow end facing each other, with a medium between the first flow end and the second flow end. Equipped with an extended filter medium pack, (i) the medium includes a groove extended between the flow ends, (b) is located adjacent to the first flow end and is located on the outer periphery. The bridge comprises a pinch seal configuration having a surface and a pinch seal housing engaging surface, and (c) a handle configuration comprising a handle member including a central handle bridge located at the first flow end of the medium. It extends above the medium without sandwiching a portion of the handle, and (i) the handle member includes a peripheral rim portion located close to the medium with respect to the central handle bridge. A filter cartridge featuring. 141. (a) The pinch seal configuration includes a mold-in-place molded portion, and (b) the handle member is fixed to the medium by the mold-in-place molded portion. 140 filter cartridges. Typically, the filter cartridge preferably complies with claim 140 or 141, the handle member does not include a portion surrounded by the medium, and the cartridge has a radius adjacent to the first flow end. It is preferable not to include a directional seal. 142. The filter cartridge according to any one of features 134 to 141, which is otherwise characterized by following any one of features 1 to 114. 143. The air cleaner assembly comprising (a) a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion (b) according to any one of features 1 to 142 located within the housing. An air cleaner assembly comprising a filter cartridge in which the axial seal housing engagement surface is deflected by the other housing portion towards one housing portion. 144. (a) The air cleaner assembly according to feature 143, wherein the second housing portion comprises a housing sealing surface surrounded by a peripheral flange. 145. (a) The housing seal surface comprises at least one circumferentially discontinuous protrusion / recess contour, and (b) the axial seal engagement surface is the protrusion / recess contour member of the housing seal surface. The air cleaner assembly according to feature 144, wherein the air cleaner assembly comprises at least one housing protrusion / recess contour member that is hermetically engaged with. 146. (A) The air cleaner assembly according to feature 145, wherein the housing seal surface comprises at least one stepped recess. 147. (A) The air cleaner assembly according to feature 146, wherein the housing seal surface comprises at least two stepped recesses.

148. (a) The peripheral flange of the second housing portion engages with the first member of the peripheral peripheral protrusion / recess contour configuration at the outer peripheral peripheral edge of the seal member of the housing seal configuration of the cartridge. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 147, characterized in that it comprises at least a second member of a peripheral peripheral edge protrusion / recess contour configuration arranged so as to. 149. (a) Peripheral Peripheral Protrusions / Recesses The second member of the contour configuration comprises the housing with at least one protrusion extending towards the medium and (b) Peripheral Peripheral Protrusions / The air cleaner assembly according to feature 148, wherein the first member of the recess contour configuration comprises at least one recess extending towards the medium. 150. (a) Peripheral Peripheral Protrusions / Concave Contours The second member of the configuration comprises at least two protrusions extending towards the medium in the housing and (b) Peripheral Protrusions / Recess Contours The air cleaner assembly according to feature 149, wherein the second member of the configuration comprises at least two recesses extending toward the medium in the seal member. 151. (a) The second housing portion includes a seal valley that is surrounded by the peripheral flange and surrounds the inner flange, and (i) the seal valley is between the peripheral flange and the inner flange. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 143 to 150, comprising extending the seal compression surface. 152. (A) The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 143 to 151, wherein the housing sealing surface of the second housing portion comprises a sealing rib projection. 153. (a) The housing seal configuration includes a portion projecting into the seal valley, and (b) the inner flange is a receptacle disposed between the portion of the housing seal configuration and the medium. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 151 and 152, characterized in that it projects into a recess. 154. (a) The filter cartridge housing seal configuration according to any one of features 142 to 153, characterized in that the filter cartridge housing seal configuration is configured to hermetically engage with the housing in a single rotational configuration with respect to the central axis. Air cleaner assembly. 155. (a) From feature 142, the filter cartridge housing seal configuration is configured to be hermetically engaged with the housing in any of a plurality of rotational configurations with respect to the central axis. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of 153. 156. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange is where the cartridge is in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 155, characterized in that it is located on a portion of the access cover portion that projects into the base portion when sealed. 157. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange is where the cartridge is in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 156, characterized in that it is located on a portion of the access cover portion that projects at least 50 mm into the base portion when sealed. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange seals the cartridge in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 155, wherein the air cleaner assembly is arranged in a part of the access cover portion that protrudes into the base portion when the air cleaner is formed. 157. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange is where the cartridge is in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 156, characterized in that it is located on a portion of the access cover portion that projects at least 50 mm into the base portion when sealed. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange seals the cartridge in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 155, wherein the air cleaner assembly is arranged in a part of the access cover portion that protrudes into the base portion when the air cleaner is formed. 157. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion with a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion with a sealing surface, and (i) the pressure flange is where the cartridge is in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 156, characterized in that it is located on a portion of the access cover portion that projects at least 50 mm into the base portion when sealed.

158. (a) The housing comprises an access cover portion having a pressure flange, (b) the housing includes a base portion having a sealing surface, and (i) the preform flange is where the cartridge is in place. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of features 142 to 157, characterized in that it is located on a portion of the access cover portion that projects at least 60 mm into the base portion when sealed with. 159. (a) The housing has a base portion with a housing inflow port configuration and a housing outflow port configuration, and (i) the housing inflow port configuration is a side inlet of features 142-158. The air cleaner assembly according to any one section. 160. (A) The air cleaner assembly according to feature 159, wherein the housing access cover comprises a flow guide surface oriented to divert flow from the side inlet towards the cartridge. 161. (a) Features 159 and 160, wherein the housing access cover includes an arcuate curved flow guide surface oriented to divert the flow from the side inlet towards the cartridge. The air cleaner assembly according to any one of the above.

162. A housing for an air cleaner, wherein the housing comprises (a) a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and (i) the second housing portion is surrounded by an outer peripheral flange. A housing comprising a seal compression surface (ii) said seal compression surface comprising at least one peripherally discontinuous protrusion / recess member. 163. (a) The housing according to feature 162, wherein the outer peripheral flange comprises an inner surface having one member of a protrusion / recess contour.

164. (a) The housing according to feature 163, wherein the inner surface of the outer peripheral flange comprises a protrusion extending inward. 165. (a) The housing according to any one of features 161 to 164, wherein the outer peripheral flange comprises a plurality of separated protrusions. 166. (A) The housing according to any one of features 161 to 165, wherein the seal compression surface includes a plurality of peripherally spaced recesses. 167. (a) The housing according to any one of features 161 to 166, wherein the second housing portion includes an inner flange separated from the outer flange by the seal compression surface. 168. (a) The housing according to any one of features 161 to 167, wherein the seal compression surface comprises a seal rib. 169. (a) Features 161 to 168 characterized in that the at least one protrusion / recess member is provided with a peripherally discontinuous recess at a depth of at least 1 mm with respect to an adjacent portion of the seal compression surface. The housing according to any one of the items. 170. (a) The at least one protrusion / recess member is a step having a transition end extending at an angle within a range of 35 ° or more and 85 ° or less with respect to the plane of the adjacent portion of the seal compression surface. The housing according to any one of features 161 to 169, characterized in that it comprises a recess. 171. (a) The step where the at least one protrusion / recess member has a transition end extending at an angle within a range of 40 ° or more and 80 ° or less with respect to the plane of the adjacent portion of the seal compression surface. The housing according to any one of features 161 to 170, characterized in that it comprises a recess. 172. (a) The at least one protrusion / recess member comprises a step recess having a transition end extending at an angle of 45 ° or more and 75 ° or less with respect to the plane of the adjacent portion of the seal compression surface. The housing according to any one of features 161 to 171.

173. A housing for an air cleaner, wherein the housing comprises (a) a housing having a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and (i) the second housing portion is surrounded by an outer peripheral flange. A housing comprising: (ii) the inner surface of the inner flange and at least one of the seal compression surfaces being asymmetric with respect to the central axis. 174. (a) The housing according to feature 173, wherein the outer peripheral flange has at least one protrusion on the inner surface. 175. (a) The housing according to any one of features 173 and 174, wherein the seal compression surface has at least one recess protruding in a direction away from the adjacent portion of the seal compression surface. 176. (a) The housing according to any one of features 173 to 175, wherein the housing otherwise complies with any one of features 161 to 172.

177. An air cleaner assembly that comprises (a) a housing according to any one of features 157 to 175 and (b) a cartridge according to any one of features 1 to 114 attached to the housing. An air cleaner assembly characterized by being equipped. 178. (a) The air cleaner assembly according to feature 177, wherein the air cleaner assembly also complies with any one of features 143 to 161.