Wet/dry vacuum cleaner filter for wet material collection.

(54) Title: LIQUID / DUST VACUUM FILTER FOR COLLECTION OF LIQUID MATERIAL.

(54) Title: WET / DRY VACUUM CLEANER FILTER FOR WET MATERIAL CQLLECTIQN.

(57) Summary

Vacuum cleaner filters are disclosed, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both liquid and liquid / powder type vacuum cleaners, as well as vacuum cleaner systems incorporating the use of such filters, and methods for their use; The filters include a filter element arranged in a circumferential, cylindrical profile path, an upper end cap having a central hole capable of clamping a post in a vacuum cleaner filter box, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely spaced from the cap. upper end for connection to the lower motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.

(57) Abstract

Vacuum cleaner filters, in particular replaceable vacuum cleaner filters suitable for both wet and wet / dry type vacuum cleaners are disclosed, as well as vacuum cleaner systems incorporating the use of such filters, and methods for their use. The filters include a filter element arranged in a closed circumferential, cylindrically-shaped path, a top end cap having a central orífice capable of constricting a post on a vacuum filter cage, and optionally a molded end ring oppositely-spaced from the top end cap for engagement with the lower motor housing of a vacuum cleaner.

<img file="MX348754B_D0001.tif" />

PATENT TITLE No. 348754

Owner (s): EMERSON ELECTRIC CO.

Address: 8000 West Florissant Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri, 63136, USA

Name: LIQUID / DUST VACUUM FILTER FOR COLLECTION OF LIQUID MATERIAL.

<td>Classification:</td><td>CIP:</td><td>A47L5 / 36;</td><td>A47L7 / 00;</td><td>A47L9 / 12;</td><td>A47L9 / 14; A47L9 / 20;</td><td>B01D45 / 00;</td>

<td></td><td></td><td>B01D46 / 00</td><td></td><td></td><td></td><td></td>

<td></td><td>CPC:</td><td>A47L5 / 36;</td><td>A47L5 / 365;</td><td>A47L7 / 00;</td><td>A47L7 / 0004; A47L9 / 12;</td><td>A47L9 / 14;</td>

<td></td><td></td><td>A47L9 / 20:</td><td>A47L9 / 127;</td><td> ♦</td><td></td><td></td>

Inventor (s): DOUGLAS C. SCHULTZ; MARK TOMASIAK; MATTHEW A. WILLIAMS

REQUEST

Number: Presentation Date: Time:

MX / a / 2014/012122 October 7, 2014 16:31

PRIORITY

Country: Date: Number:

US October 8, 2013 14/049,202

Validity: Twenty years

Expiration Date: October 7, 2034

Issue Date: June 27, 2017

The reference patent is granted based on articles 1, 2^or fraction V, 8 “fraction lll, and 59 of the Industrial Property Law.

In accordance with article 23 of the Industrial Property Law, this patent has a validity of twenty non-extendable years from the date of presentation of the application and will be subject to the payment of the delay to keep the rights in force.

Whoever signs this title does so based on the provisions of articles 6^or fractions lll and 7^or bis 2 of the Industrial Property Law (Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) 06/27/1991, amended on 08/02/1994, 10/25/1998, 12/26/1997, 05/17/1999, 01/26/2004, 06/16/2005, 01/25/2006, 05/06/2009, 01/06/2010, 06/18/2010, 06/08/2010, 01/27/2012 and 09 / 04/2012); items 1^or, 3^or fracofór) V subsection a), 4 »and 12 ° sections I and III of the Regulations of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (D OF 12/14/1999, amended on 07/01/2002, 07/15/2004, 28 / 07/2004 and 7/09/2007); Articles 1, 3, 4, 5 fraction V subsection a), 16 sections i and lll and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007), 1st, 3rd and 5th subsection a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy General Directors, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Heads of the Regional Offices Divisional Subdirectors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DrO.F. 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).⁴

This document is signed with an advanced electronic signature (FIEL), based on articles 7 BIS 2 of the Industrial Property Law; 3 of its Regulations, and 1 fraction lll, 2 fraction V, 26 BIS and 26 TER of the Agreement establishing the guidelines for the use of the Payment and Electronic Services Portal (PASE) of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property, in the procedures indicated.

THE DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

NAHANNY CANAL REYES

Original string:

NAHANNY MARISOL CANAL REYES | 00001000000403252793 | Administration Service

Tax | 1695 | | MX / 2017/5147 5¡MX / a / 2014/012122 | Normal patent title | 10^{* 2}7 | RGZ | Page (s) ²| 3HoAuM3fxgYCk / K8YW + Zs3RZwwU =

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YeswKfífJíjlKfrzUxTlpteZibKTwsiejuo0zOVT6CM3OkTEDITAoDZc1rgUvsyccVDAuuxA991DrEv0U3L1tVppQd1vzOK8U50R9dYQN

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Arenal No 550, Floor 1, Pueblo Santa María Tepepan, Xochimílco, 16020, Mexico City.

(55) 53340700 www.gob.mx/impi lili llllllll

MX / 2017/51475

<img file="MX348754B_D0002.tif" />

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LIQUID / DUST VACUUM FILTER FOR RECOLTOCTON

<img file="MX348754B_D0003.tif" />

OF LIQUID MATERIAL

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The inventions disclosed and taught herein relate generally to filters for vacuum cleaners, and more particularly relate to replaceable filters for liquid / dust vacuum cleaners, as well as to vacuum apparatus systems incorporating and utilizing such filters.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Vacuum cleaners, particularly vacuum cleaners and liquid / dust vacuums, whether strictly relegated to cleaning dry materials, or capable of both liquid and dust cleaning, require some method of separating dust and dirt from the air being discharged back to the surroundings during operation. Typically, vacuum filters are used to prevent debris from re-entering the area being cleaned. Therefore, filters are commonly used to perform these separation functions. Associated with the use of such filters, there is often a need to remove and reconnect the filter from the suction apparatus, for example, when cleaning the filter or when replacing an old or damaged filter with a new filter. Also, regarding vacuum cleaners

<img file="MX348754B_D0004.tif" />

² IMPI 'NST'TUTO MÍXICawn ^PHEW THE H »OPIEO_A1The type known as liquid / dust vacuums, the filter is also removed when the vacuum cleaner is sucking up liquids. Consequently, special structures often accompany a typical liquid / dust vacuum to accommodate filter removal and replacement.

With regard to the operation of a suction apparatus or related air movement system, it is typical that a suction system with a motor creates the vacuum and is mounted on a lid that is removably attached to a collection drum to receive the materials. aspirated. A portion of the cap, herein called a mounting assembly, extends at least partially down into the drum and mounts a filter support assembly, commonly called a box filter that generally covers a vacuum inlet to the assembly. suction on the lid. The box can be formed of plastic such as polypropylene, it can generally be a cylindrically formed part by molding or extrusion having a series of axial and circumferential support ribs with a high percentage of open area to support the filter extended around the box, and acts (at least in part) to prevent unwanted radially inward collapse of the filter during operation of the vacuum cleaner. The axial ribs are typically aligned with a longitudinal axis through the box and the circumferential ribs are often at substantially right angles to the axial ribs. This type of box construction creates a relatively rigid component in the axial direction. In addition to supporting the filter, the box can provide protection³ IMPIAS

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INDUSTRIAL security system for user access to the impeller, and can also optionally contain a float or similar device that protects the vacuum cleaner from accidentally sucking water into the impeller.

The vacuum system within the vacuum cap typically sucks external dirty air or water through a hose into an opening in the drum or cap so that dirt or water is deposited in the drum. The remaining material, primarily air, then flows radially inward through the filter for removal of dirt and debris and continues through the box into a suction impeller in the lid, and is then discharged from the vacuum cleaner.

The filter is commonly connected to the mounting assembly by a combination of the threaded bolt, or case stem, and nut on the end of the case, which acts to place the filter in axial compression, utilizing the longitudinal stiffness of the axial ribs. . In typical use, the filter is inserted over the housing, and a mounting flange of rigid material, such as plastic, is connected to the housing or mounting assembly and is used to compress or sand the filter between the flange and the assembly. mounting. Compressive and mechanical force on the entire filter body and its filter element is the primary force used to seal the filter to the vacuum cleaner and prevent unwanted filtration by the vacuum cleaner. Thus, a structurally sound and supportive box is important to the overall function of the filter and the vacuum cleaner in general. The filter can also be attached in position by some other method, such as holding one or more filter seals.

<img file="MX348754B_D0005.tif" />

directly to mounting assembly or cover. A box estru? Oá1meftt &lt;? Rigid is again necessary to prevent unwanted objects 77 from entering the impeller and to house the inlet cut-off float.

Experience has shown that while these vacuum cleaner filter systems and mechanisms work, they often suffer from being difficult or inconvenient to use, which in turn makes filter change difficult, inconvenient, or time consuming. Also, those vacuum systems where the filter is connected to a mounting assembly by means of a threaded bolt and nut system at the end of the filter box, using a threaded nut to retain the filter in a state of axial compression. , can be a time consuming operation, and the use of a separate filter nut or similar locking mechanism is undesirable because such parts can be easily lost or misplaced during the course of filter replacements. Additionally, some of the more complex filter system designs employ mechanisms that add unnecessary cost to the overall suction apparatus product. Lastly, those filter system designs that do not utilize or require filter retention mechanisms can often result in the filter becoming easily dislodged and / or the vacuum filter seal breaking when the vacuum is dropped or it is shaken, which in turn can damage both the filter itself, as well as cause unwanted leakage of liquid or debris into the engine and vacuum system.

This patent application discloses filter assemblies for use

IΜ ΡI ΙΝϊΉΤκΤ ^ MEXICAN with suction devices, such as liquid vacuums, qw§B-— eliminate the need for any separate retention mechanism paia ---- install the filter to the suction device, allow the filter to be replaced and / or cleaned quickly and effectively, easily seals to the suction apparatus mounting assembly, remains secure during normal operation without unwanted dislodging from the shaking and rough handling of the suction apparatus, and that easily adjusts to existing vacuum appliance units already on the market, avoiding the consumer having to purchase a new vacuum appliance, such as a new liquid / dust vacuum, to utilize the filter assemblies of the present description .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The objects described above and other advantages and features of the invention are incorporated in the application as stated herein, and associated annexes and drawings, related systems for lifting both liquid and dusty debris using a vacuum cleaner, such as a vacuum cleaner. liquid / powder.

The inventions described herein are of filter assemblies for use with suction apparatus, systems including such filter assemblies, and methods of connecting such filter and filter assemblies to a suction apparatus. In accordance with one aspect of the present description, a filter for use with a

<img file="MX348754B_D0006.tif" />

liquid / dust suction, wherein the filter comprises a "poiwomcfe" having an orifice or aperture formed extending therethrough; ———— a separate annular end ring; and a separate profiled filter intermediate between the cap and the end ring and extending in a closed, circumferential path, which forms a closed, inner path, wherein the hole or aperture may be circumscribed by a retaining ring, and wherein the cap and end ring are comprised of a flexible material. The lid may be substantially planar or substantially non-planar, and may also include one or more handles for use in enhancing the ease of removal of the filter assembly from a mounting post or stem of a vacuum cleaner filter box. The annular hole or aperture formed may be substantially centrally located in the cap portion of the filter assembly, or may be offset from the axial center axis of the cap portion of the filter assembly, as appropriate. Additionally, the filter itself may be cylindrical, oval, conical, elliptical, or rectangular in shape, without limitation, and it may be pleated or non-pleated, as appropriate.

In accordance with yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a filter for use with a liquid / dust aspiration apparatus is disclosed, wherein the filter comprises a cap having an annular orifice or aperture extending therethrough which can whether or not it is centrally located; an annular end ring; and a filter positioned intermediate between the cap and the end ring and extending in a circumferential path that forms a

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interior, closed path, where the annular hole is circled by '' - a retaining structure, and where the cap and end ring are comprised of a flexible material attached to the filter, so that when the cap is in In association with the liquid / dust suction apparatus, the lid seals in a plane below the upper surface of the filter. In a similarly related aspect of the present disclosure, a filter for use with a liquid / dust aspiration apparatus is disclosed, wherein the filter comprises a cap having a centrally located annular hole extending therethrough; an annular end ring; and a filter positioned between the cap and the end ring and extending in a closed, circumferential path that forms an interior, closed path, wherein the centrally located annular orifice is circumscribed by a retaining ring, and wherein the cap and the end ring is comprised of a flexible material attached to the filter. Further in accordance with this aspect of the present disclosure, a filter for use with a liquid / dust aspiration apparatus is disclosed, wherein the filter comprises a cover having a centrally located opening extending therethrough; an annular end ring; and a filter positioned between the cap and the end ring and extending in a circumferential path that forms an inner, closed region, wherein the cap and end ring are comprised of a flexible material, such as an elastomeric material, bonded to the filter. In further accordance with these aspects of the description, the centrally located opening may be circumscribed by a retaining ring or

<img file="MX348754B_D0007.tif" />

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MEXICAN INSTITUTE _____. ........ oe'-í'Z ^ pAO similar means of retention, in which the retention ring is formed integrally with the lid, or is not formed integialrnerrteOün'lapa ~

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a filter assembly for use with a liquid / dust aspiration apparatus is disclosed, wherein the filter assembly comprises a cover having a centrally located opening extending through through it, and annular end ring, and a filter positioned between the cap and the end ring and extending in a circumferential path forming a closed, inner region, wherein the cap comprises a stem cover defining an interior region circumscribing the centrally located opening, and wherein the cap and end ring are comprised of a flexible material attached to the filter.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present description, a vacuum cleaner system for use in lifting debris from both dust and liquid using an air movement is described, wherein the system comprises a filter box associated with an assembly of cover or motor housing of a vacuum cleaner, and a filter assembly. The filter box assembly comprises a bottom face and a mounting post that extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom face of the filter box. The filter assembly comprises a cap having a centrally located annular hole extending through it, an annular end ring, and a separate filter intermediate between the cap and the end ring and extending in a circumferential, closed path. which forms a

IMPI INSmUT ·: 'MkXICAN »' closed inner path and where the centfáfrW'éiWúSit ^^ annular hole is circumscribed by a retaining ring that -fwarlgi r.ar form it integrally with the upper face or not integrally connected to the upper face. In accordance with this aspect of the description, the annular hole has an area smaller than the area of ​​the profiled front end of the mounting post, so that the annular hole of the filter assembly expands to fit over the profiled front end of the mounting post. mounting as the pole is pushed or pulled and then contracts once the front end has passed through, allowing the filter assembly to be retained in position against the bottom face of the filter box by the integrally formed retaining ring and constriction of the filter hole against the post. Additionally, the filter box mounting post can have any number of profiles, including an hourglass profile, so that the hourglass profile can be defined by two outer regions and an inner region, the outer regions. have a diameter greater than the diameter of the inner region, and wherein said profiled mounting post acts to increase the seal of the filter assemblies against the filter box. Further in accordance with this aspect of the present disclosure, as a system, the filter assembly fits over the top of the filter box and the mounting post extends at least partially through the centrally located opening in the lid of the filter. filter, and is retained in position by an integrally formed retaining ring in the cap, wherein the centrally located opening has a smaller uncompressed diameter ¹⁰ . .

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INSTITUTE «¿XICAN.

As a diameter of a portion of the mounting post handle the assembly, the centrally located opening will expand in diameter by --- fit over a portion of the mounting post, and then contract in diameter. to retain the filter on the filter box.

In accordance with another aspect of the present description, a vacuum cleaner system is described, wherein the system comprises a filter box comprising an upper face, a lower face versus an upper face, and a mounting post that extends substantially perpendicular to the lower face of the filter box; and a filter assembly comprising a cap having an opening extending therethrough, an annular end ring, and a filter positioned between the cap and the end ring and extending in a closed, circumferential path that forms a closed interior path, wherein the opening in the cap is circumscribed by an elastomeric material, wherein the filter assembly fits over the top of the filter box and a portion of the mounting post extends through the opening in the filter assembly cover and is held in position by the elastomeric material, and where the The opening in the cap has an uncompressed diameter smaller than the diameter of a portion of the mounting post, so that during assembly the opening is expanded in diameter to fit over the portion of the mounting post, and then shrinks in diameter to retain the filter assembly on the filter case.

According to a further aspect of the present description, a liquid / dust vacuum cleaner is described, comprising a filter box

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which includes a projection extending from it, laf ^ JS ^ e has a length; and a filter assembly including wa-plug formed of —— deformable material defining an opening, and, a filter extending from the lid, wherein the filter has a length that is longer than the length of the housing. filter; wherein the filter is coupled to the box by positioning the filter around the box so that the length of the filter extends along the length of the box and so that the projection of the filter box extends through of the filter cap opening so that the filter is held in place at least in part by compression forces resulting from compression of the deformable material defining the opening which is applied against the projection; and wherein the connection of the projection with the opening causes a deformation of the deformable material such that the cap assumes a substantially conical shape. In further accordance with this aspect of the description, the filter box can be connected to a motor housing of a suction apparatus, wherein the conical profile formed by the deformed material is such that the tip of the cone points in a direction towards the motor housing. Further in accordance with this aspect of the description, when the filter box is attached to a motor housing of a suction apparatus, the conical profile formed by the deformed material is such that the tip of the cone points in a direction that extends away from the motor housing.

In a further aspect of the present description, an apparatus, such as a suction apparatus or the like, is described, wherein the apparatus

<img file="MX348754B_D0008.tif" />

IMPI INITITUTÍ MEXICANO comprises a filter box that includes a first extreme extension and a mounting projection that extends from the extreme second; and, a filter assembly that includes a filter that extends around the filter box, the filter includes a first end and a second end, a mounting cap positioned at the second end of the filter, the mounting cap is therefore less partially formed of flexible material and defines an opening; wherein the mounting projection extends through the opening defined by the mounting cap such that the mounting cap connects to a region of the mounting projection; and wherein the distance from the first end of the filter box to the region where the mounting cap connects to the mounting projection is less than the distance from the first end of the filter box to the second end of the filter assembly.

In another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of attaching a filter to the filter case of a liquid / dust vacuum cleaner is described, wherein the method comprises the steps of providing a filter case including a first end and a second end. end and a mount projecting from the second end, the mounting projection defines a mounting region; by providing a filter assembly that includes a first end, a second end, and a mounting cap positioned at the second end of the filter, the mounting cap is at least partially formed of a deformable material and defines an opening; Position the filter assembly around the filter box so that the filter assembly fits over the filter box and so that the second end of the filter assembly is positioned closer to the second filter than to the first end of the filter. filter box; and defuii nandú the "mounting plate" to cause the mounting projection to extend through the opening in the end cap and to cause the end cap to connect to the mounting region of the mounting projection.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present description, a filter assembly for use with a liquid / dust aspiration apparatus is described, wherein the filter assembly comprises a generally cylindrical filter comprised of pleated material, the filter defining a first extreme; and a mounting cap coupled to the first end of the filter, the mounting cap defines a generally cylindrical opening near the center of the mounting cap and a ring that extends around the opening, wherein the mounting cap has an elastomeric characteristic. which allows the mounting cap to be deformed to a substantially conical shape, and wherein the ring has an elastomeric characteristic that allows the ring to be deformed so as to exert compression forces radially inward toward the center of the cylindrical opening.

In a further aspect of the present description, a filter assembly for use in a liquid / dust vacuum cleaner is described that includes a mounting element, wherein the liquid / dust filter assembly comprises a filter medium for filtering matter. particulate collected by the liquid / dust vacuum cleaner, and elastomeric retaining means to create compressive forces that tend to retain the filter assembly in a fixed position relative to a liquid / dust vacuum when at least a portion of the assembly is positioned within an opening. formed in elastomeric retention means.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following figures are part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects of the present invention. The invention may be better understood by reference to one or more of these figures in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a vacuum equipment system associated with the vacuum cleaner filters of the present disclosure.

Figure 2 illustrates a partial perspective view of an exemplary vacuum cleaner filter of the present disclosure.

Figure 3 illustrates a side elevation view of the vacuum cleaner filter of Figure 2

Figure 4 illustrates a bottom view of the exemplary vacuum cleaner filter of Figure 2

Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of the filter of Figure 2 taken along line 5-5.

IMPI

Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of according to an embodiment of the present description, mn ^ tradn i_to ___ orientation exploded on top of a suction unit of a conventional liquid / powder vacuum cleaner.

Figure 7A illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary vacuum cleaner mounting assembly with a filter of the present disclosure mounted thereto.

Figure 7B illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative vacuum cleaner mounting assembly with a filter of the present disclosure mounted thereto.

Figure 7C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a further alternative vacuum cleaner mounting assembly with a filter of the present disclosure mounted thereto.

Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative vacuum cleaner filter assembly of the present disclosure.

Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a further alternative vacuum cleaner filter assembly of the present disclosure.

Figure 10A illustrates a side cross-sectional view of the filter of Figure 9 taken along line 9-9.

Figure 10B illustrates a top view of the filter of Figure 9

Figure 11 illustrates a perspective view of a further alternative filter assembly of the present disclosure.

INSTITUTO MÍXICANO ΛΙ

Figure 12A illustrates a partial cutaway side view of a filter box assembly for use with the missing filter box, showing a retrofit of the previous box assemblies.

Figure 12B illustrates a partially cutaway side view of an alternate filter box assembly for use with the present disclosure, showing a retrofit of the previous box assemblies.

Figure 12C illustrates a partial perspective view of the underside and mounting post of a further alternative filter box assembly for use in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 12D illustrates a partial perspective view of the underside and mounting post of an alternative filter box assembly for use in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 12E illustrates a cross-sectional view of the filter box assembly of Figure 12D, taken along line 1212.

Figures 13A to 13E illustrate various alternative embodiments of the present disclosure.

Figure 14A illustrates a further filter assembly in accordance with the present description.

Figure 14B illustrates a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of Figure 14A taken along line 14-14.

Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary filter assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.

Figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary filter in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a further exemplary filter assembly in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

Figure 18 illustrates a side view of the filter assembly of Figure 17

Figure 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the filter assembly of Figure 17

Figure 20 illustrates an exemplary top view of the filter assembly of Figure 17

Figure 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of Figure 20 taken along line 21-21.

Figure 22 illustrates a view of the filter elements of the filter assembly of Figure 17

Figure 23 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a section of the filter assembly of Figure 17 in accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, where sections of layers are cut away to reveal the structure that would not otherwise be present. visible to the viewer.

Figure 24 illustrates a perspective view schematically representing the embodiment of Figure 23, with a filter element sandwiched between two different filter elements.

Figure 25 illustrates a top view of one embodiment of the

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INSTITUTE Mbxicj.fjo ..... 3)) present invention, where the end plate of the assembly coincides with the outer edge of the filter element. - ___________

Figure 26 illustrates a bottom view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 25

Although the inventions disclosed herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, only a few specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The Figures and detailed descriptions of these specific embodiments are not intended to limit the breadth or scope of the inventive concepts or the appended claims in any way. Rather, detailed written figures and descriptions are provided to illustrate the inventive concepts to the person skilled in the art and to enable such person to make and use the inventive concepts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The figures described above and the written description of the specific structures and functions shown below are not presented to limit the scope of what the applicants have invented or the scope of the appended claims. In fact, the figures and the written description are provided to teach any person skilled in the art to make and use the inventions for which patent protection is sought. The

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INSTITUTO MEXICANO Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all commercial features of the inventions are described or described for clarity and understanding. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the development of a current commercial modality incorporating aspects of the present inventions will require numerous specific implementation decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial modality. Such specific implementation decisions may include, and are likely not limited to, compliance with system-related, business-related, government-related, and other limitations, which may vary with the specific implementation, location and location. one moment to another. Although a developer's efforts could be complex and time consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those skilled in the art who have the benefit of this disclosure. It should be understood that the inventions disclosed and taught herein are susceptible to numerous and various modifications and alternative forms. Finally, the use of a singular term, such as, but not limited to, a / an, is not intended to limit the number of articles. Also, the use of related terms, such as, but not limited to, "up", "down", "left", "right", "top", "bottom", "bottom", "up", " lateral ”and the like are used in the written description for clarity with specific reference to the figures and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or the appended claims.

IΜ ΡI

Generally speaking, Applicants have created industrial filter for use with suction appliances, such as liquid / dust vacuums, which eliminate the need for a separate retention mechanism to install the filter to the suction appliance, allowing filter to be replaced or cleaned quickly and effectively, automatically seals to the suction apparatus mounting assembly, remains secure during normal operation without unwanted dislocation from the shaking and rough handling of the vacuum cleaner, and is easily adjustable to existing vacuum cleaner units already on the market.

Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 illustrates a schematic perspective view of an exemplary suction apparatus system 10 for use with the filter systems of the present disclosure, wherein the system shown is a liquid suction apparatus. / powder 20 comprising a collection drum or chamber 30, wheels 42 mountable on the lower end 32 of drum 30, and a lid 50 removably attached to the upper end 34 of the collection drum 30 containing a feed inlet. The lid 50 is removably attached (for example, through a hinge mechanism or the like, or by fully lifting the top of the drum 30 releasing the latches 54) to the collection drum 30 so that the lid can be easily removed for use. empty waste or liquids contained within the drum, or as related to the present description, to change or clean the filter assembly (not shown) that is typically mounted in conjunction with the underside of the

IMPIOS a motor housing, power inlet, or suction cover. As with most known liquid / powder vacuums, a motor (not shown) is generally coupled to the mounting assembly on the inner portion of the cap 50 of the vacuum cleaner 20, which operates to create the vacuum within the drum. collection tank 30 to draw solid, liquid, or both waste into the collection drum 30 through an inlet port 60 by means of a vacuum hose (not shown). The collection drum 30 may also optionally include a drain 40 so that the liquid within the drum can be emptied (for example, through a pump such as that described in US Design Patent No. D551,681) and removed without having to undo and remove the lid 50. Suction apparatus such as system 10 generally include a filter assembly as will be described herein, as well as a mounting assembly and / or a box filter (not shown) that will be described in more detail herein, and which is typically coupled to or integrally formed with the underside of cover 50 or motor housing, extending downward into harvesting drum 30.

The aspiration apparatus itself, including the collection chamber / drum 30 and the cover and feed inlet 50 may be formed from any number of relatively inexpensive, lightweight plastics or polymers of convenient strength and rigidity, including but not limited to polypropylene, polyurethane, and other similar materials. The motor frame and other select parts of the general vacuum assembly

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OE THE EROHEIMN can be formed of a more rigid material and having a lesser 'rh ^ dülb of flexion than that comprising the collection chamber, exemplary materials "~ * ~" include but are not limited to glass-filled polyester , glass-filled polycarbonate, thermoset polyester, and similar polymeric materials, all of which are heavier, and often more expensive, than the material that is used to form the collection chamber.

Figures 2 through 5 illustrate a filter assembly 100 in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. In Figure 2, a perspective view of the filter assembly 100 is illustrated, comprising an integrally formed end plate section 110, an end sealing ring 130 (not shown), and a generally cylindrical pleated filter element. 120 intermediate between plate 110 and end seal ring 130 and extending in a closed, circumferential path, including and forming a closed, inner region. Integrated end plate 110, equivalently referred to herein as a cap, may further optionally comprise one, two, or more integrally formed handle portions 112, 114 (two are shown), and a formed hole or aperture 118 in the center of the end plate, centrally formed hole 118 extending from the upper surface 111 of the end plate 110 through the closed, indoor air flow path formed by the filter element 120. The end plate, or cap, 110 may also optionally comprise a plurality (two or more) integrally formed support struts 115, to add structural integrity to the end plate itself. How is it

INSTITUTE MWtCAN- ': / shown in the figure, the handle portions 112 and 114 sutfefófci ^^ éí ^^ may be diametrically opposite in orientation, and would chirp ^ tan ^ rs partially on the top and edges of the pleated filter element 120 , to enable the user to be provided with a holding surface to aid in removal of the filter box from a suction apparatus when changing filters. Although two handle portions 112 and 114 are illustrated, it will be recognized that the filter assemblies described herein may have no handles, a single handle, or more than two handles, which can be oriented in a variety of ways, such as perpendicular. to the upper face of the cap portion, without limitation as also illustrated in Fig. 2, hole 118 in end plate 110 may be circumscribed by integrally or non-integrally formed annular retaining means, such as retaining ring 116 having a taurus-like (donut) shape of such size, shape, and internal diameter as the ball o end flange at the front end of the mounting shaft on a vacuum cleaner filter box can be forced through hole 118 as will be discussed in more detail later, to retain a filter assembly of the description present in the filter box and seated against the base of the suction apparatus. If retaining ring 116 is integral, it will be formed on end plate 110 as part of the manufacturing process. In the event that the ring 116 is not integral and is a separate element of the filter assembly, it can be attached to the upper surface 111 by any number of appropriate chemical (eg, glue) or mechanical methods, without limitation.

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

Figure 3 illustrates a side view of the assembly showing in particular the dimensional relationships between -ka-integrated tepa, -e ------- end plate, 110, filter element 120, and end sealing ring 130 As shown therein, in an exemplary non-limiting aspect of the description, the integrated top mounting cap 110 has an outer diameter di that is the same in all orientations, due to the substantially circular shape of cap 110. Filter element 120, which is integrally attached to cap 110, has an outside diameter d₃. According to this exemplary, non-limiting aspect of the present description, the outside diameter d₃ of the filter element 120 may be greater than the outer diameter di of the cap 110. In the alternative, the end plate 110 may have a diameter di that is substantially the same as, or is coincident with, the outer diameter d₃ of filter element 120. As illustrated, only the formed handles 112, 114 extend outwardly in such a way as to extend over the outer edge of filter element 120, so that the diameter d₂ between the outer edges of the handles is greater than the outer diameter d₃ of the filter element 120. However, viewing Figure 2 in combination with Figure 3, it will be appreciated that in accordance with certain aspects of the description, the larger cap portion 110 circumscribes the upper end of the filter element 120, so as to that more than 50% of the diameter di of the cap 110 is less than the outer diameter d₃ of the filter element 120. According to non-limiting exemplary aspects of the present disclosure, the diameter di of greater than 50% of the

IMPIOS cap 110 to outside diameter d₃ The filter element 120 has a range of about 1.0: 1.1 to about 10: 2.0, inclusive, preferably ranges from about 1.0: 1.1 to about 1.0: 1.5, or even more preferably ranges from about 1.0: 1.2 to about 1.0: 1.4. Additionally, and by way of non-limiting example only, the ratio of the outer diameter di to the height hi of the filter element 120 may be in a ratio ranging from about 1.0: 1.3 to about 1.0: 1.8, preferably about 1.0: 1.4 to approximately 1.0: 1.6. Finally, as illustrated in Figure 3, the integrally formed sealing end ring 130 has an outside diameter d₄ which is less than the outside diameter d₃ of the filter element 120, and is substantially equal to the outer diameter di of the cap 110. However, this diameter / size ratio between the sealing end ring 130 and the filter element 120 may not be limited to this illustrated situation. , so that situations where the outside diameter d₄ end seal ring 130 may be substantially the same as, or coincident with, the outer diameter d₃ of filter element 120. In an exemplary, non-limiting aspect, a filter assembly 100 may have a filter height hi of approximately 20.95 cm (8.25 inches), a filter outer diameter d₃of approximately 16.51 cm (6.5 inches), and diameters of end plate 110 and end sealing ring 130 of approximately 13.66 cm (5.38 inches), with the diameter d₂ of the handle enlargement portions 112, 114 being approximately 18.75 (7.5 inches). As indicated before, without η?^Λ- A A.

INS i Τ ι μ M'XICAN '' ^{f> E} 'ANDVr¹^^ S ^ ·· ^ However, these dimensional relationships are not limiting, and are igtfá'lYnenfe— acceptable for end plate 110 and / or end sealing ring having an outer diameter greater than the outer diameter of filter 120, or alternatively substantially equal to (substantially coincident with) the outer diameter of filter element 120. Additionally, in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, annular sealing end ring 130 should not be included in the filter assembly to provide support for the lower end of the filter, nor to assist in providing a sealing surface against the filter housing. motor of a suction apparatus. In such cases, support for the filter assembly can be achieved by the inclusion of an internal support mesh or mesh, such as a metallic mesh support assembly (not shown), that circumscribes the interior region of filter element 120. .

In Figure 4 a bottom view of the vacuum cleaner filter assembly of Figure 2 of the present description is shown. As seen in the figure, the hole 118 extends from the annular retaining ring 116 in the upper surface 111 of the end plate 110 to the lower face 113 of the end plate 110. Figure 4 also illustrates the closed, inner path of filter 100 formed by the circumferential path of filter element 120. This interior path is the portion of the filter assembly that, in typical use, is fitted over the filter housing of a suction apparatus, whereupon the forward end of the mounting arrow extends upward and through the center hole 118 , as will be described in more detail with reference to

IMPIOS inítuto .mexicano 'figure 6 and figures 7A to 70. ind-wial

Figure 5 illustrates a cross sectional perspective view —— of an exemplary filter 100 of the present disclosure as illustrated in Figure 2, taken along line 5-5, and showing the seals of filter, filter element, and cover 110. As is most clearly seen in this view, the outer edges of the filter element 120 extend ahead of the outer edge, or diameter, of both the integrated end cap 110 and annular end ring 130, sparing the handle portions 112 and 114 integrally formed with end cap 110, having a lip 117 to increase grip for the user and extending a distance downward and over the outer edge of filter element 120. The plurality of integrally formed support struts 115 on top surface 111 of cap 110 act to add strength to end cap 110 and provide additional mechanical support to the filter assembly during typical operation and assembly in combination with a filter box of a suction apparatus, which will be described in more detail later. While the support struts 115 are shown arranged in a radial manner, extending out of the annular ring 116, they can also be arranged in a concentric manner on the upper surface 111 of the end plate 110.

End cap 110, as well as integrated end ring 130, can be formed of any conventional, rigid or semi-rigid material that has a flexibility great enough to pass over the ball or socket.

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO 'Λώίζ << DE LA HOH E'> AO 'd equivalent profiled structure 82 at the front end of the stem'8^r8Ü of ^ '¹-²^ the filter box 90 and forms a seal, as illustrated in figure 6, including - but not limited to plastics and polymers such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), metals such as steel, and elastomeric materials that are suitable to absorb energy and forming a retaining seal, especially under vacuum conditions, such materials include but are not limited to polyurethane elastomers and the like. The term elastomer, or elastomeric, as used herein, generally refers to compositions or materials that have a glass transition temperature,

T_g in which there is an increase in the coefficient of thermal expansion, and includes both thermoplastic and amorphous polymer elastomers. Specifically preferred is the use herein of elastomers having low T_g, for example, below 315.5 ° C (600 ° F), densities (or specific gravities) less than about 801 kg / m³ (50 lb / ft³), and tensile strengths ranging from about 10 PSI (about 68,947,572 Pa) to more than about 100 PSI (about 689,475,728 Pa). This includes but is not limited to polyolefin elastomers, polyurea elastomers, polyurethane elastomers, latex, and thermoplastic / elastomer composites. As used herein, the term elastomer or elastomeric compound can also include Silicon- or silica-based elastomers, or Silicon-containing elastomers or rubbers. Exemplary rubber and elastomeric compounds that can be used to form the filter assemblies described herein include, but are not limited to

<img file="MX348754B_D0009.tif" />

IMPI INSTITUTE MtXION, 'are limited to acrylonitrile-butadiene (NBR) rubbers such as hydrogenated nitrile rubbers, ethylene-propylene elastomers, or dofluorocarbon rubbers such as VITON ™, chloroprenes, Silicon rubbers and elastomers, rubber and elastomers of fluorosilicons, polyacrylate, ethylene acrylic elastomers, styrene-butadiene rubbers (SBR), polyurethanes including both polyester and polyether urethanes, and polyether rubbers (NR).

In particular, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, end cap 110 and end ring 130 are comprised of an elastomeric material, preferably a polyurethane foam, and more especially is a two-part polyurethane foam, such as those foams. two-part polyurethane comprising a mixture of an isocyanate and a resin. In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, the two-part polyurethane foam may be formed from Elastoflex ™ material manufactured by BASF Corporation of Livonia, Mich. Non-limiting examples of two-part polyurethane foams have a blend ratio of between about 1: 1 and about 3: 1, resin to isocyanate, this ratio is inclusive. Convenient alternative elastomers that can be used to form one or both of the cap 110 and end ring 130 include but are not limited to polyurethane (commercial example including Lupranat ™, Lupranol ™,

Lupraphen (tm), Elastoflex ™, and Cellasto ™, expandable polystyrene (EPS;

commercial examples including Styropor ™ and Neopor ™, both materials of

IMPI »

INSTITUTO MbXlCANi »F LA FROFlfcDAÍ expanded polystyrene (EPS) available from BASF), ροΙίβείΐΓ ^^^ ίΓυιίΤο— (XPS; commercial examples including Styrodur ™ C or Henpor^lM from Bacf), melamine resin (such as Basotect ™), or polypropylene (such as Neopolen pTM)

The elastomeric materials used to make both the integrated end cap 110 and the integrated end ring 130 are preferably of the same type, and furthermore have a variety of physical and mechanical properties that allow the general filter assemblies disclosed herein to perform in the invention. advantageously described. Exemplary characteristics of the material include density, tear strength, elongation, compression fit, shore A hardness, tensile strength, hardness, static modulus, and resistance to various organic solvents due to the interlocking structure of the elastomeric material, among other characteristics. . Exemplary non-limiting ranges of physical and mechanical properties are shown in Table 1, as well as exemplary (non-limiting measurement standards that can be used to obtain data for the listed physical and / or mechanical properties of elastomeric materials. In accordance with the present description, the elastomeric materials that are used to form both the integrated end cap 110 and the end ring 130 may have two or more physical characteristics or properties as set forth in Table 1, such as tensile strength. , as elongation, and as closed cell content.

<img file="MX348754B_D0010.tif" />

IMPI

IN .T'TI ITO Mhx | r>, NQ or Ι.Λ rnomtoxn INOUSTUIAl

TABLE 1

<td colspan="3">Physical and mechanical characteristics of elastomeric materials suitable for use in forming portions of filter assemblies of the present disclosure.</td>

<td>Physical / mechanical property</td><td>Measurement standard</td><td>Exemplary interval values'</td>

<td>Density Tensile strength³Elongation Tear resistance, Given “C (PLI) Compression fit Shore A hardness ”(molded in free lift) Closed cell content Dielectric strength2</td><td>ASTM D1564, D1622 ASTM D1564, D412 ASTM D1564, D412 ASTM D624-00 (2007) ASTM D1564 / D3576 ISO 7619 ASTM D1415, D2240 ASTM D-2856 ASTM D149-97a</td><td>78-122 kg / m² (16-25 lb / ft^2&gt;10.5-15.4 bar (150-220 psi) 90-200% 20-40 11-70% 30-40 sts. 80-99% 7.8-39.37 kV / cm (20-100 kV / in).</td>

<td colspan="3">'' All ranges of values ​​at the temperature required by the listed test standard.²Dielectric strength is the measure of an elastomer's ability to resist current flow</td>

when voltage is applied.

³As used herein, the term tensile strength refers to the maximum amount of tensile stress that can be applied to the elastomeric material before it ceases to be elastic, measured in units of force per unit area (N / m² or Pa) per ASTM D-638, ASTM D-412, or ISO 37 (available from the worldwide website at astm.org).

According to additional aspects of the description, the end plate, or cap, 110 may also be formed of non-elastomeric materials for use in specific operating environments. For example, and without limitation, end plate 110 can be formed of metal, preferably a non-corrosive metallic material.

Filters, such as filter element 120, suitable for use in the filter assemblies of the present disclosure may be of the pleated type as illustrated, or may be non-pleated, and may be formed from various filter materials, including, but not limited to paper, cloth, fiberglass materials; split fiber materials; fibers and solution spun materials formed from such fibers; felt materials; natural fiber filter material; expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membranes; ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (PE) membranes and materials;

³² IMPI ^

ΠΓΠΤυΤΟ MUICAN '

Dt THE MOFIBBaB V— &lt;

INDUSTRIAL cast-cast media, such as cast-cast propylene (PP) or cast-cast polyethylene (PE); microporous open cell polymers, such as polyurethane foam based materials; poly (ethylene terephthalate), (PET) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), as well as materials based on copolymers thereof, HEPA type materials and related fiber or randomly arranged fiber materials (high efficiency particulate air filters (HEPA) being those filters that can eliminate at least 99.97% of particles suspended in the air of 0.3 micrometers pm in diameter) according to the requirements of NIOSH; triboelectrified media and materials, and the like, any of which can be treated as being hydrophobic and / or having mold and mildew preventive characteristics. Such treatments may be especially desirable for those filter assemblies made for use in liquid / dust vacuums. Filter element 120 may be bent or pleated, as illustrated in the figures, eg, Figure 2, or not bent, as appropriate. Preferably, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, and despite what material is used to form filter element 120, the filter material is folded into multiple folds and formed into a generally cylindrical tube-like shape that has a curly appearance. or pleated, to increase the exposed surface area. This folding increases the area of ​​the filter that is in contact with the air stream during operation of the suction apparatus, thus effectively improving filtration without decreasing the air stream. Filters can also have a

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

Say LA FROWSüaD · 'variety of porosities, or pore size distributions, depending on the desired air flow permeability to be achieved. Pó ^ éldádes ———— specimens include, but are not limited to, about 1 micron, about 3 microns, and about 10 microns, as well as porosities greater or less than these values, for example, about 0.1 microns, and about 15 micras. Such porosity values, as used herein, mean that the filter will stop at least 99% of all particles that are of the target particle size (eg, 10 microns) or larger. Porosity measurements can be by any suitable measurement method or device, such as a Coulter Porometer ™ (Coulter Electronics, Inc., Hialeah, Fia.), Or using industry standard test methods, such as ASTM F316-03 (available from the American National Standards Institute). Such porosities result in filters according to the present invention having air flow permeabilities ranging from about 6.66 µm.³m / m²(2 cfm / ft²) at approximately 26.66 m³m / m² (80 cfm / ft²). In general, however, the filter elements 120 are relatively rigid and simultaneously flexible in nature to maintain their shape, and will have porosity as desired to filter dry materials, such as dust, cementless wall dust, dirt, ash. chimney, and the like out of an air stream during operation of the vacuum cleaner while allowing air to flow through it to an outlet through the vacuum cover.

INSTITUTO MEJOCAN ·> cLára -'- wi »M oe LA PFi IPISi> AO

As indicated, the filters of the present description may optionally further comprise one or more biostatic agents and / or biocides. Convenient biostatic or biocidal agents are typically selected to have bacteriostatic and / or fungistatic properties that can be used to treat the filters of the present disclosure and reduce biological contamination (eg, microtoxin contamination) from the air passage through the apparatus. suction and using such a filter. Exemplary biostatic and / or biocidal agents that can be used for this purpose include but are not limited to 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol, isothiazolines, methyl or propyl or butyl parahydroxybenzoates, sorbic acid, benzoic acid and salts. of these acids, phenoxy ethanol, triclosan, diclosan, dichlorophen, chlorhexidine gluconate, orthophenylphenol, quaternary biocides, orthobenzylparaclorophenol, and substituted biphenyl ethers, as well as combinations thereof. To increase the application or use of such biological inhibitors, various additional additives can be applied to the filter, or combined with the biocidal or biostatic agents applied to the filter, including but not limited to humectant, Theological additives, and surfactants. The humectant can be selected from calcium chloride, glycerol, sorbitol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, sodium sulfate, sodium chloride, and sodium dioctyl sulfosuccinate. The rheological additive is typically a thickening agent, a gelling agent or a viscosity modifier, and can be one or more compounds selected from sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC),³⁵

INSTITUTO * UXICAN (! Ot LA rKOFUUAL) INDUSTRIAL hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC), polyethylene glycols, polypropylene glycols, polyvinyl alcohol, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyvinylpyrrolidone and copolymers of these, hydroxypropyl guar polymers, acrylate polymers, chitosan polymers, polypropylene polymers, x-acrylates (carbopoles) and water soluble polymers, as well as combinations thereof. Preferably, the composition remains effective, in service, for periods of 6 months or more, so that the filter, after 3 months in normal use, produces at least a 1 log reduction in cfu's / gram of clean filter material. compared to an untreated filter under the same conditions.

Additionally, while the filter assemblies described herein have been illustrated and generally described with reference to a cylinder profile assembly, it is contemplated that these filter assemblies may be of any number of other convenient profiles, including but not limited to oval, conical, elliptical, square, rectangular, and hexagonal type cylinder a.

An exploded view of a filter assembly 100 in conjunction with the filter box assembly of a typical vacuum apparatus is illustrated in Figure 6, where the filter box 90 forms a part of the suction unit 70 that is a This is often an essential part of the vacuum cleaner cover 50 and is mounted on top of a vacuum apparatus collection drum 30 (see, figure 1) to collect debris in the form of dirt, dust, saw dust, water, and other liquids. The general suction unit 70 as illustrated typically includes an opening (not shown

INSTITUTO MEXICANO vfW'Y- · 'in this view) to which is attached a vacuum cleaner hose in figure 1), a discharge 74, a flotation ball í ^ miiniin ib romo a safety measure to turn off the suction unit 70 when a liquid fills the drum 30, and closes 54a, 54b to releasably secure the suction unit 70 to the collection drum 30. Filter box assembly 90, as well as other filter box assemblies described herein, comprise a first end comprising a top face (not shown), and a second end comprising a bottom face 78 opposite and spaced from the top face, wherein the filter box assembly is typically attached to a motor housing or suction surface 72 of the suction apparatus, the underside is available to mate with a filter or filter assembly as described herein. The filter housing assembly 90 extends downward away from and generally perpendicular to the suction surface 72 of the suction unit 70, and may be formed by molding with the unit 70, or it may be a separately formed assembly that it is attached to and integrated with the suction unit 70 using any number of appropriate attachment means. The filter box assembly 90 also typically comprises a plurality of energy absorbing structural ribs 77 that form a support for the box, and which can act at least partially to absorb impact or other stress loads applied to the box during normal use and operation of the suction apparatus. The ribs 77 can be formed in a parallel arrangement as illustrated, or they can be

I Al p I 'NVI'UTO M4XlCA_N, j ytíZrddi oriented in a variety of other orientations while ^ desired structural support, such as angled lAngitiiHin ^ imAnte to form a barber pole-like arrangement around the perimeter of the box. The assembly 90 may also comprise a mounting post or threaded bolt 80 that extends downwardly and substantially perpendicular to the lower fall 78 of the filter box assembly 90, the distal end of which may optionally further comprise an integrally shaped and profiled head. 82 which may act to further retain the filter assembly on the filter box assembly 90. The mounting post 80 may be substantially cylindrical in shape, or as illustrated in FIG. 6, it may have an hourglass profile, such that the base of the post slopes toward the underside 78 of the box assembly. filter 90, while the front end 82 is a profiled head that has a diameter greater than the diameter of the post itself. Although the front end profiled head 82 is illustrated as being spherical in shape, it is by no means limited to such a shape, and can take on any number of geometric shapes, as long as the diameter of the head is greater than the diameter of the post 80. at its narrowest point. Additionally, the hourglass profile of post 80 advantageously improves the seal of the filter assemblies described herein against the bottom face of the filter case, in combination with the effect of the annular retaining ring 116. According to In the present description, the filter assemblies described herein fit on the underside of the filter box 90, wherein a portion of the mounting post 80, such as the ί 7 * Λ Ό 'T' rx χ 1^?Λ11 1

INSTITUTO MEXICANO front end 82, extends through the opening in the lid of the MS ^ fole ^ filter and is retained in position by the elastomeric material of the lid and / or a ——.—, retaining ring or media associated with the lid filter assembly 110.

When the filter assemblies of the present disclosure are constructed in the ways disclosed herein, the filter assemblies 100 (and 300, 400, and 600) have an open end opposite the integrated end cap 110 that is circumscribed by the end ring. integral 130 (see Figures 3 through 5) that is adapted for a hermetic interface with the discharge section of the suction unit 70 of the vacuum assembly. The filter unit assembly 100 shown in Figure 6 includes a centrally located annular orifice / aperture (e.g., circumscribing the vertical axis of the filter assembly) 118 in its integrated end cap 110, surrounded by an annular retaining ring 116 as described above. This annular hole is preferably smaller in diameter than the forward end 82 of post 80 in the filter box. In a typical application, the post 80 (or bolt) located on the underside 78 of the filter box assembly 90 as shown is passed through the opening 118 in the end cap 110, after which the hole 118 in the filter assembly expands to go over the ball (or other formed portion) at forward end 82 of post 80, and then contracts back to its original size after passing over forward end 82, to hold filter assembly 100 in place on the surface of suction unit 72. Otherwise indicated, opening 118 in end cap 110, in accordance with

IMPIOS ir ^ guro Mexican description present, has an uncompressed diameter smaller than ^^^ diameter of a portion of the mounting post, of mamu that dui anle-el— ---— assembly, the opening 118 is expanded in diameter to fit over a portion of the mounting post 80, such as a forward end 82, and then contracts in diameter to retain the filter assembly on the filter case assembly 90. Due to the size and elastomeric characteristics of the 116 annular retaining ring detailed above, the filter unit assembly

100 it is hermetically retained in place on the filter box assembly 90 without the need for additional retention means or mechanisms, such as a nut or the like. On such a filter unit assembly mount, the integral end ring 130 acts as a basket member to form a tight fit against a sealing surface 72 on the suction unit 70 when the filter assemblies described herein are retained in place. your place as illustrated and described. Additionally, during operation of a vacuum cleaner assembly, the filter seal itself is enhanced by the force of the vacuum pulling the filter assembly into an airtight seal against the profiled filter box mounting post 80. In certain aspects of the present description, as will be described in more detail below with reference to the figures. 7A through 7C, when the filter assembly described herein is attached to the filter case, the projection connection, or mounting post, 80 with the opening 118 can result in a deformation of the deformable material so that the cap assumes a substantially conical shape, wherein the tip of the cone is such

IMPI

INSTITUTO MEXICANO M that points either towards or away from the accommodation of the

In accordance with the present description, the gonoral method of ____ attaching a filter to the filter case as described herein, such as filter assembly 100 (or any of the other filter assemblies described herein), to a filter box 90 of a liquid / dust suction apparatus, comprises the steps of providing a filter box including a first end and a second end and a mounting projecting extending from the second end, the mounting projection defines a mounting region; by providing a filter assembly that includes a first end, a second end, and a mounting cap positioned at the second end of the filter, the mounting cap is at least partially formed of a deformable material and defines an opening; position the filter assembly around the filter box so that the filter assembly fits over the filter box and so that the second end of the filter assembly is positioned closer to the second end of the filter box than to the first filter box end; and deforming the mounting cap to cause the mounting projection to extend through the opening in the end cap and to cause the end cap to connect to the mounting region of the mounting projection. This method is not intended to be limiting in any way, but is a general method appropriate for use with the filter assemblies and systems described herein.

Figure 7A illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner mounting assembly with a filter assembly 100 of the

IMPI lbSTITl.ITnMtXIC.ANi>

present description assembled thereto, as is ^ '• ^^ vetic ^ eST ^ explosion in figure 6 As shown therein the filter assembly 100 is mounted on the filter box assembly 90, therefore At least one post portion 80 extends over top surface 111 of cap 110 and annular retaining ring 116. In accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, in the case where post 80 has a formed head at its forward end, formed head 82 preferably clears the top of ring 116 and further acts to retain filter assembly 100 on the case. filter 90 during normal operation of a vacuum apparatus, such as a liquid / dust vacuum. Figure 7A also illustrates one of several acceptable ways in which the end ring 130 mates with and forms a seal against the sealing surface 72 of the suction unit of the suction apparatus 70. Directional arrows indicate the direction of the vacuum force during the operation of a suction apparatus, again illustrating the improved filter seal formed by the use of the filter assemblies described herein, wherein the vacuum force acts to Pull filter assembly tightly against profiled filter box mounting post 80. In accordance with the aspect illustrated in Figure 7A, the connection of the mounting post 80 with the opening 118 may result in very little deformation of the deformable material that forms and defines 118 or the cover of the filter assembly itself, resulting in that the cover of the filter assembly assumes a shape that is substantially parallel to the bottom face 78 of the filter case.

WICKED

MEXICAN INSÍIT'JTO ~ VÍÍ / Í

Figure 7B illustrates a schematic view in seopheloftSt ^^ of an alternative mounting assembly of a ^ pradnra- ^ nn a filter Hp the ___ present description mounted thereto, where the surface of the cover 110 'is not planar, and conical in its way of contacting the upper surface 78 of the filter box 90. As shown therein, the connection of the mounting / projection post 80 with the opening 118 'of the filter assembly causes a deformation of the deformable material that forms the cover 110' and defines the opening 118 ', as well as the optional element. retainer 116 ', so that the cap assumes a substantially conical shape, the conical profile formed by the deformable material is such that the tip of the cone points in the direction towards the motor housing of the suction apparatus (not shown).

Figure 7C illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative vacuum cleaner mounting assembly with a filter of the present disclosure mounted thereto, wherein the surface of the cover 110 is a non-planar, frusto-conical contact arrangement with upper surface 78 of filter box 90. As shown in the figure, the frusto-conical arrangement of the cover 110 with the upper surface 78 of the filter box allows a non-planar displacement of some angle, a, between the filter assembly 100 and the filter box 90, while maintaining a proper contact and seal surface so that vacuum can be maintained during normal operational use. As shown therein, the connection of the mounting / projection post 80 with the opening 118 'of the filter assembly causes a

WICKED

INSTITUTE MtXICAMt>, 'Z deformation of the deformable material that forms the opening lid 118', as well as the optional retention element-116 ', so that the lid assumes a substantially conical shape, the conical profile formed by the deformable material is such that the tip of the cone points in the direction towards the motor housing of the suction apparatus (not shown).

Figures 8-10B illustrate alternative, but equally acceptable embodiments of the present disclosure. In Figure 8, a filter assembly 300 is illustrated in perspective view, the assembly comprises an integrated cap section 310, an end ring 330 (not shown), and a cylindrically shaped and pleated filter element 320 intermediate the cap. 310 and end ring 330. Integrated lid 310 comprises two handle portions 312, 314 and a formed hole 316 in the center of the lid. As with the filter assemblies described above, the handle portions 312 and 314 partially extend over the top and edges of the pleated filter element 320, and act to allow the user to be provided with a gripping surface to aid in removal of the filter from the filter box of a vacuum cleaner when changing filters. As illustrated in Figure 8, the hole 316 in the cap 310 is generally centrally located around the vertical or longitudinal axis of the filter assembly, and is formed in a generally annular, taurus-type profile of such a size, shape, and diameter. internally that the ball or end flange on a filter box can be forced up and through hole 316 to retain the filter assembly in the

IMPI INSTITUTO MÜXICANi> OE LA RR.IPItlMI) C * »- iSÉ filter box and sitting against the base of the suction apparatus.'Cdffid etrlaS ^ modalities described before, the elasticity and tissue characteristics of the --- material that forms the lid 310, and in particular hole 316, allow end cap 310 to become sealed around the flange of a filter box (not shown) after installation.

Figures 9 and 10A to 10B illustrate a further embodiment of the filter assemblies of the present disclosure. A perspective view of such a filter assembly 400 is illustrated in Figure 9, the assembly 400 comprises a fully integrated cap 410, flanges 412 and 414, a cylindrically formed and pleated filter elemen t 420, and a separate integrated end ring 430 opposite and parallel to the cap 410, so that the pleated filter 420 is intermediate therebetween. Cap 410 can be formed from any polymeric material described above, preferably from a polyurethane such as an ELASTOPLEX.RTM polymer. (Available from BASF Corporation) or foam. Fully integrated cap 410 extends across the entire upper diameter of filter element 420, and integrally retains filter element 420 in part through lip 405 which is a portion formed of cap 410, and which both circumscribes the outer edge of cap 410 and extends a distance d₆ along the outer edge of filter 420, perpendicular to the top face of cap 410. Flanges 412 and 414, as shown herein, can be of any appropriate shape and size so that they can be fastened by the user when installing or removing filter 400, and preferably extend upward from top face 402 of the

IMPI INSTITUTO MSXICAW οε la «&lt;iriFPAo ¿% -“ 'W f Í ^ DUÍTUIa í_ cap 410. Additionall y, although the flanges 412 and 414 can be Tormaaas separately and can be attached to the upper face 402 using any appropriate method, such as By the use of adhesives, flanges 412 and 414 are preferably formed integrally with cap 410. Figure 10A illustrates a side sectional view away from assembly 400 of figure. 9, taken along line 9-9, as it appears either during removal of a vacuum cleaner filter box 500, or alternatively, and as described above, with reference to a separate filter assembly 100, the connection of the mounting / projection post 502 with the opening 418 of the filter assembly can cause a deformation of the deformable material that forms the cover 410 and defines the opening 418, such that the cover assumes a substantially conical profile, the conical profile formed by the deformable material is such that the tip of the cone points in a direction towards the motor housing of the suction apparatus. As seen more clearly in this figure, the projection 502, integrally formed with the upper face 501 of the box 500 associated with a suction apparatus (not shown) extends through the opening 418 in the integrated lid 410 in a manner as it was. described above, wherein the opening 418 has an uncompromised diameter smaller than a diameter of a portion of the projection 502, or the forward end 504 thereof, so that, during assembly, aperture 418 expands in diameter to fit over a portion of projection 502, and then contracts in diameter to retain the filter on housing 500.

Figure 10B illustrates a top view of an alternative aspect f * PI wj. &lt;-x JL hee. * iNjTiT'iTo Mexican filter of figure 9, where the assembly comprises uria'íap ^^ integrated 410 ', two (or more) flanges extending towards¹-top 412-and 414 --- formed on the upper face of the cover 410 ', a pleated filter element 420, and a hole 418 formed in the center of the cover 410' and surrounded by a retaining ring with a taurus profile integrally formed 416. Similar to the filter assemblies described above, the physical characteristics (eg, elasticity) of the material that forms the top cap 410 'and / or the retaining ring 416 that circumscribes the hole 418 allows the end cap 410' to seal around of the flange of a filter box after installation on a filter box in a suction apparatus. The appearance shown in Figure 10B varies from that shown in Figure 9 in that the cap 410 'has an upper diameter that is less than the diameter of the filter element 420, so that the ends of the filter element 420 extend towards out past the edge of the cap 410 '.

Figure 11 illustrates a further aspect embodiment of the filter assembly 600 of the present disclosure, comprising a plurality of grips 612, 614. As illustrated in the figure, the assembly 600 comprises an upper cap portion 610, a ring lower end 630, and a separate pleated filter element 620 intermediate between cap 610 and lower end ring 630, wherein cap 610 and end ring 630 are attached to filter 620. The top cap portion 610 comprises an annular hole 616 that extends its entire thickness, as well as an optional taurus profile ring 618 that circumscribes the annular hole 616. As is

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X .L ν JL Jt ^ χ \, - rr'ΡΥ 'suggested according to the previous modalities, the anilí # ©, ^^ integrally formed on the upper face 611 of the end_cap, n piiAdA Astar ..... attached by any number of other appropriate fixing methods, such as by adhesives or mechanical fixings. As illustrated in the figure, the top cap 610 (and / or the bottom ring 618) may have an outer dimension di that is greater than the outer dimension d₃ filter element 620, although it is equally acceptable to have an arrangement where di is substantially the same as d₃, or where d₃ is greater than di, as discussed earlier herein. As in the foregoing, the top and bottom portions 610, 630 may be formed of any suitable material, such as polymeric materials including any number of plastics, metals such as steel, or elastomeric or rubber materials, provided that they materials can be attached to filter element 620, and have a flexibility such that the cap portion 610 can fit over the ball at the forward end of the filter case stem and form a seal, as described above. The embodiment shown in Figure 11 comprises four handle portions 612a, 612b, 614a, 614b, which as shown extend outwardly past the outer diameter of the filter. Although the handle portions 612a, 612b are illustrated as being generally diametrically opposite to the handles 614a, 614b, respectively, this is not necessary, and the plurality of handles may not be diametrically opposed, as desired.

Filter assemblies, and systems employing such

IΛ4 P i

MEXICAN INSTITUTE .SI

DE LA ERoril.OA.p filter assemblies described herein offer several advantageous ^ breTOSy ^ - filters for vacuum appliances, especially liquid / powder type vacuums, currently on the market. In particular, due to the small amount of polymeric material used to form the filter assemblies, the currently disclosed filter assemblies are cheaper and more easily produced. Other advantages include less time to replace or clean the filter assembly, and no cumbersome mechanical attachment mechanism is involved, thus eliminating the possibility of missing parts otherwise necessary for filter attachment. Additionally, the filter assemblies described herein can be easily retrofitted to existing vacuum apparatus already on the market requiring these types of filters. Finally, as noted above, the characteristics - both physical and mechanical - of the end cap portion of the filter assemblies allow for an automatic seal of the filter assembly onto the filter box mounting post of an appliance. suction, such a seal provides secure retention of the filter assembly during normal operation, as well as during dropping, shaking, or other unexpected events.

Figures 12A and 12B illustrate alternative filter box assemblies for use in conjunction with the filter assemblies described herein, allowing for retrofitting of existing assemblies to present filter assemblies (Figure 12A), and conversion of the filter housings as described herein to allow the use of standard filter assemblies and threaded nut retaining means (Figure 12B), as

INSTITUTO MEXICANO j 'wish. Figure 12A illustrates a filter box assembly 70 (Pfc | ú &amp; fé'é ^ re ^^ a top surface 790 having a threaded stem O7e0 extending upward therefrom, and a plurality of openings 791 to provide the flow of air or other media downstream of the filter through the openings and into the mounting assembly for a vacuum cleaner, and then for subsequent discharge, as is known in the art. These openings 791 are formed by one or more longitudinally angled rib elements 794 that are formed at zero or non-zero angle to the longitudinal axis of the filter box, as well as one or m ore circumferential ribs 792 that extend around, and circumscribe substantially box 700. Optionally, the outer surface of either longitudinally angled ribs 794 or circumferential ribs 792 may extend outward from the outer surface of the filter box to allow the filter (not shown) to slide over the box without interference from the ribs. circumferential. According to this embodiment, the box assembly may comprise a separate and shaped stem 750 having sloped or otherwise profiled sides and a polygonal or spherical head, as well as interior grooves 752 formed substantially centrally therein, such as by a machine tool. The stem 750 is preferably solid, and can be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic or other suitable polymers, or as a metal, as appropriate. In use, the stem 750 can simply be threaded to the stem 780 of the filter box assembly 700 through

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'- • ί indüstrÍai. X threads in the 780 stem so that it mounts substantially to the^- top surface level 790. In this manner, an older style suction apparatus can easily be adapted for use with the filter assemblies described herein.

Figure 12B illustrates yet another alternative filter box assembly 800 comprising a filter box assembly 800, similar to that described in connection with Figure 12A, and comprising a top surface 890 having a polygonal shaped stem 850 that extends upward thereof, and a plurality of openings 891 to provide flow of air or other means downstream of the filter through the openings and into the mounting assembly for a vacuum cleaner, and then subsequent discharge, as is known in the art. These openings 891 are formed by one or more longitudinally angled rib elements 892 that are formed at zero or non-zero angle to the longitudinal axis of the filter box, as well as one or more circumferential ribs 894 that extend around, and circumscribe substantially box 800. Optionally, the outer surface of either longitudinally angled ribs 892 or circumferential ribs 894 may extend outward from the outer surface of the filter box to allow the filter (not shown) to slide over the box without interference from the ribs. circumferential. The assembly illustrated in figure 12Β further comprises the adapter 860 proper for converting a filter box assembly of those as described herein to an assembly.

I Μ Ρ 1 trOTTLTO MMC'.W filter box standard that has a threaded stem. The adápts ^ oééoS ^ preferably a solid piece of formed material, extrtridnTTrrrraqt ^ ---— (including but not limited to plastic, polymeric materials, elastomers, metal, and the like) having two or more separate parts 863, 865, a face top 862, and a bottom face 864 which in use contacts the top surface 890 of the filter box assembly 800. The top face 862 of the adapter 860 comprises a threaded stem 866. The adapter 860 further comprises a profiled inner portion 870, formed into a suitable profile so that in use, the adapter 860 can simply be pushed down in the direction of the arrow above and above the profiled stem 850, such that the bottom face of the adapter 864 contacts the top face 890 of the case.

Figures 12C through 12E further illustrate alternative filter box assemblies 880 and 880 'in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure and suitable for use in conjunction with the filter assemblies of the present disclosure. Figure 12C illustrates a partial perspective view of filter box assembly 880 comprising a generally planar surface 882 of the lower end of box assembly 880, having a formed projection 884, such as a mounting post or stem, which extends upward from it. The projection 884 may be profiled as shown to include a neck region 883 and a head portion 887, such that the neck region 883 is intermediate between the surface 882 of the box assembly, and the head portion 887. As I know

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IMPI

ITiSTITOTO MEXICANO,. 'Λ also shows in figure 12C, the projection 884 can be^W'®®mí ^ in addition to one or more outward-projecting ribsü85 shapes within-— ~ - and circumscribing the neck region 883, such ribs act to further retain the filter assemblies of the present disclosure when inserted in place on the box assembly 880 as associated with a suction apparatus, such as that described hereinbefore. The box assembly 880 also comprises one or more longitudinally angled rib elements 886 that are formed at zero or non-zero angle to the longitudinal axis of the filter box, as well as one or more circumferential ribs 888 that extend around, and that they substantially circumscribe box 800. These ribs in combination define a plurality of openings 891 as shown in the figure, which as described above, provide the flow of air or other media downstream of the filter through the openings and into the mounting assembly for a vacuum cleaner, and then subsequently exhausts air. Optionally, the outer surface of either longitudinally angled ribs 894 or circumferential ribs 888 may extend outward from the outer surface of the filter box to allow the filter (not shown) to slide over the box without friction interference from the ribs. circumferential.

Figure 12D illustrates a perspective view of an additional and alternative filter box assembly 880 'in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure and suitable for use in conjunction with the filter assemblies of the present disclosure. Similar to box assembly

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

880 In Figure 12C, assembly 880 'includes a generally planar surface 882, as well as circumferential rib elements 886 and 888 (respectively) which in combination define openings 891 as discussed. previously. The box assembly 880 'also comprises a shaped projection 884, such as a mounting post or stem, that extends outwardly away from the surface 882.

The projection 884 may be profiled as shown to include a shoulder region 881 raising the projection of the surface 882, the neck region 883, and a head portion 887, so that the neck region 883 is positioned between the shoulder region. shoulder 881 of projection 884, and head portion 887. As also illustrated therein, neck region 883 may further comprise one or more rib elements 885 that circumscribe neck region 883, and which may be useful in retaining filter assemblies in accordance with the present disclosure herein. place on box 880 '. The head portion 887 as illustrated in the figure may be semi-hemispherical in profile as shown, although any profile may be used as appropriate, and may also include one or more formed notches 889 that can act as attachment points. for the user during the installation and removal of a filter assembly as described herein in and on the 880 'box. Figure 12E is a cross-sectional view of the filter box assembly 880 'of Figure 12D, taken along line 12-12, and more clearly illustrating the spatial relationship of the head, neck, shoulder, and portions. rib of the i vi Ρ J ín ^ itut, _{Mtx: CANQ} !> l LA P: «> 1'1 SO_TO;, V · * · -Sn® projection 884 as it extends outward across the SaitO ^ surface 882 (typically the bottom surface) of the box "

In further aspects of the present disclosure, the central sealing assemblies described herein, comprising an annular central bore circumscribed by a collar that adds strength and provides elastomeric retention of the filter assembly on a filter case of a suction apparatus , it can be provided in a separate element apart from the filter itself. In the example, a filter assembly may comprise a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion comprises a profiled filter, optionally further comprising an end ring for sealingly connecting to the inside face of a vacuum motor assembly. In accordance with this aspect, the second portion may comprise a separate cap portion having a centrally located annular hole extending therethrough and a retaining ring or collar circumscribing the annular hole. During use, the first portion comprising the filter would be placed on the filter case of the vacuum cleaner assembly, whereupon the second separated portion would then be placed on top of the first filter portion, so that the stem or mounting post on the underside of the filter box extends through the annular hole in the lid portion in a manner as described hereinbefore. That is, the annular hole preferably has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of at least a portion of the mounting post, for example a diameter of the end

<img file="MX348754B_D0011.tif" />

1/4 Pl _FINSTITUTO MEXICANO DI LA RRUF'kOAb front of the stem or mounting post in the filter box, (qd ^ may u-uu-have an hourglass profile), so that as la'seíjllhdcl pUítiúii is ---- - pushed over at least a portion of the mounting stem, the annular hole expands to go over the stem, and then contracts back to its original diameter as the second portion seals against the underside of the housing. filter, whereby it tightly connects the first filter portion against the bottom of the vacuum cleaner head. In accordance with this aspect, similar to the aspects described above, the retaining ring or collar on the second portion can help to hold the second portion in place against the first filter portion by pressing against the mounting stem.

Several of the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are generally illustrated in Figures 13A through 13E. Figures 13A, 13B, and 13C illustrate top views of a cap section 900, 900 ', and 900, respectively, each having a different profile hole, the hole, or opening (902, 904, 906) within and being extends across, top sections. For example, in Figure 13A, aperture 902 is generally keyhole profiled, and optionally off-center, so that in use the stem of the filter box assembly can rise and pass through aperture 902, after which the entire filter assembly is changed in such a way as to lockably connect to the filter box stem and filter assembly, thus making the use of a retaining ring as described herein optional or unnecessary.

<img file="MX348754B_D0012.tif" />

<img file="MX348754B_D0013.tif" />

MEXICAN INSTITUTE OF INDUSTRIAL PReHEhAD

In Figure 13A, opening 904 is a plurality (2 or more) cover section slots 900 ', which allow the stem of the filter box assembly to extend upward and pass through the upper section of the cover assembly cover. filter, while still allowing the formation of a proper seal of the filter assembly against the filter box. Similarly, in FIG. 13C, cover section 900 comprises a single slot 906 that extends through a portion of cover 900, and allows the stem of a filter box to extend upward and pass through cover section 900. of a filter assembly of the present description. Advantageously, the embodiment illustrated in Figure 13C allows the use of the filters as described herein with a range of different suction apparatus having differently positioned and profiled filter housings. Although integrally formed handles and support elements, as described above, are not included in these figures for purposes of clarity, their optional inclusion with these embodiments is contemplated as described herein.

In Figure 13D, there is illustrated a partial perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a filter assembly in accordance with the present disclosure, comprising a cap section 910, an end ring 930 (not shown), and, a filter generally cylindrically profiled and pleated 920 intermediate between cap 910 and end ring 130 and extending in a closed, circumferential path and including a closed, inner path. Cap 910 may further comprise

IMPI

<img file="MX348754B_D0014.tif" />

optionally a formed hole 952 in the center of the lid, a centrally formed abé 952 extending from the upper surface 950 of lid 910 through the lid to the closed, inner path of the air stream formed by the filter 120. Although aperture 952 is illustrated as being substantially annular herein, it is contemplated that it may have any number of profiles and styles, as described herein. As illustrated in Figure 13D, the filter assembly may comprise a separate retaining element 960 for use to retain the filter assembly in conjunction with a filter case of a vacuum cleaner assembly. In general, it is contemplated that in use, the filter element 920 would be placed over the filter housing of a suction apparatus (not shown), the cap 910 would then be placed over the top of the filter, so that the stem of the filter case extends upward and through the opening 952, after which the retainer 960 would be slid up and over the stem, and hold the assembly in place. In accordance with the present description, it is contemplated that cap 910 may also optionally comprise a plurality of integrally formed support struts (illustrated in dashed lines), to add structural integrity to cap section 910, as well as one or more optional handles (not shown).

Figure 13E illustrates a further embodiment of the present description, similar to that shown in Figure 13D, but where retaining element 988 is connected to upper face 980 of cover 970.

<img file="MX348754B_D0015.tif" />

· '' J ι li JI &lt;J ιΊΓ, ΛιΙ _# / by a flexible element 987, which can be made of material such as that from which the cover itself 97O is made: -In oh use, once the filter assembly has been placed on the filter box of the suction device, so that the filter case stem extends up through the opening 986, the user can then extend the retention member 988, through the flexible member 987, up and over the stem, to hold the entire filter assembly in place. Advantageously, this embodiment allows the use of an optional filter retention element 988 that is directly connected to the upper face 980 of the filter cover 970, and that can be used or not used, depending on the specific vacuum apparatus with which the assembly is associated. Similar to the caps described herein above, the cap 970 may optionally comprise one or more integrally formed support struts (illustrated in dashed lines), to add structural strength and integrity to the cap section 970, as well as one or more optional handles 982, 984, as appropriate.

Figures 14A and 14B illustrate a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the press fit filter assembly 1000 is shown without an opening or hole, but with a cap-stem 1040 integrally formed with the filter cap itself. The filter assembly 1000 comprises an integrally formed integrated cap section 1010, a separate annular end ring 1030, and a pleated, generally cylindrical profile filter 1020 intermediate between the cap 1010 and an end ring 1030, el. . ; urnT <npMrXIC4N0 an interjor path path. ,, cen., (na integrated lid 1010 can filter element 1020 extends in generally closed and includes one shown). As illustrated in the figure, optionally further comprising one or more (two are shown) integrally formed handles 1012, 1014 as shown and described above, a formed edge or edge 1017 that circumscribes the exterior of the lid 1010, and an opening 1041 (not shown), such as a formed or molded hole or other appropriate opening, formed in the cap, wherein opening 1041 is covered by stem cover means 1040 extending upward from upper surface 1011 of cover 1010. As can be seen in Figure 14B, described in more detail below, opening 1041 extends from the the upper surface 1011 of the cap 1010 by the cap to the interior, closed airflow path 1050 formed by the filter element 1020. As illustrated in Figure 14A, the cap 1010 may also optionally comprise a plurality of integrally formed support struts 1015, to add structural integrity to the section of cap 1010. As illustrated in the figure, struts 1015 may be extended radially outwardly from the stem cover means 1040 towards, and optionally integrates with, the edge 1017 of the cover. Although two handle portions 1012 and 1014 are illustrated, it will be recognized that the filter assemblies described herein may have no handles, a single handle, or more than two handles, which can be oriented in a variety of ways, such as perpendicular. to the upper face of the LUSTITUTO MEXICANO DE LA MOPI¿r> AO portion of lid or in a plane substantially in alignment with 'ía⁰? ^ top of cap 1010, without limitation.

As illustrated more clearly in Figure 14B which is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly 1000 of Figure 14A, taken along line 14-14, the stem cap or stem cover means 1040 comprise an outer portion 1044, an inner aperture 1041 that opens in the central region of the filter assembly 1000 and facing the top face of the lid 1011, and a contoured inner region 1042 which optionally may further comprise an inner clamping portion or clamping means 1046. The stem cover means 1040 is arranged to be positioned over the stem or stem head (not shown) of the housing. filter when the filter assembly 1000 is connected to a suction apparatus as described above. In accordance with one aspect of this embodiment, the stem cover means 1040 may be retained in position by the contoured inner region 1042, alone or in combination with one or more optional clamping means 1046 that can act to clamp the filter box stem or stem head and retain the 1000 filter assembly in place, connected to the suction apparatus. In accordance with certain aspects of this embodiment, the cover means 1040 may be substantially hollow, having a contoured interior region 1042 whose profile corresponds to the filter box stem with which it will interact and connect. Although the cover means 1040 is illustrated as being substantially cylindrical in profile, it may have a

<img file="MX348754B_D0016.tif" />

IMPI (2

INSTITUTO MEXICANO Z domed or otherwise profiled exterior section 1044, which^{, I}e®ta''f the opening 1041 in the cover means. The 1046 clamping units may comprise one or more resilient arms or equivalent clamping means to more tightly connect the stem or stem head of a filter box, especially when the stem is not profiled but rather of standard design, cylindrical (threaded or not).

In a typical exemplary method of use, the filter assembly 1100 is simply pushed over and over an exposed portion of the filter box assembly of a suction apparatus, such as the type generally illustrated in Figure 6 herein, at where the interior air flow path 1050 defined at least in part by filter 1020 circumscribes the exterior of the filter box assembly. The assembly 1100 is pushed down so that the stem cover 1040 is simply pushed over the stem head of the filter case extending downward and exposed. The contoured inner region 1042 of the stem cover 1040 is only smaller than the outer width of the box stem head, so that when pushed into a suction apparatus box stem, the inner region 1042 deforms slightly and hold the stem of the box. Alternatively, and equally acceptable, if one or more fastening means is included within the stem cover 1040, the inner region 1042 will be slightly larger than the outer width of the box stem head, so that when it is pushed into a suction apparatus housing stem, the means of

J- X'o JL Λ INSTITUTO MrZlCANO f

-- .

- ., . . _r DELA ΜΟΠΕΠΑΙ · clamping 1046 are slightly deformed and thereby clamping Wvástagb '^ ebox. The tension between the contoured inner region 1042 and the ^ LVáSTagü box / cr "between the clamping means 1046 and the box stem will work to hold the filter assembly 1000 in place and connected to a suction apparatus, even when vacuum not be applied.

Figure 15 illustrates a perspective view of a further embodiment of the present disclosure, the design of the filter assembly 1100. Filter assembly 1100 is a design variant of filter assembly 100 described herein, and comprising an integrally formed integrated cap section 1110, spaced annular end ring 1130, and an intermediate generally cylindrical profile pleated filter element 1120. Between cap 1110 and end ring 1130, filter 1120 extends in a generally closed circumferential path that includes a closed, interior path (not shown). As illustrated in the figure, the integrated lid 1110 may optionally further comprise one or more (two are shown) integrally formed handles 1112, 1114 as shown, a formed edge or edge 1117, and an opening 1118, such as a hole. formed or molded, slot, or other appropriate opening, formed either in the center of the lid 1110, or formed off-center from the central and vertical axis of the filter, as appropriate. The opening 1118 extends from the upper surface 1111 of lid 1110 through the lid to the interior, closed, air flow path formed by filter 1120. The lid 1110 may also optionally comprise a plurality of support struts

Integrally formed IMPIOS 1115, to add structural integrity of the cap 1110. As illustrated in the figure, the pui ^ e &amp; '4446-may extend radially outward from the stem cover means 1118 toward , and optionally integrate with, the edge 1117 of the lid. In a non-limiting manner, as shown in the figure, the handle portions 1112 and 1114 may be substantially diametrically opposed in orientation, and may partially extend over the top and edges of the pleated filter element 1120, to allow the user to provide with a clamping surface to aid in the removal of the filter box from a vacuum appliance when changing filters. Although two handle portions 1112 and 1114 are illustrated, it will be recognized that the filter assemblies described herein may have no handles, a single handle, or more than two handles, which can be oriented in a variety of ways, such as perpendicular to the upper face of the cap portion or in a plane substantially in alignment with the upper surface of the cap 1110, without limitation. As illustrated in Figure 15, opening 1118 in cap 1110 may optionally be circumscribed by an integrally or non-integrally formed annular retaining ring 1116 having a general taurus (donut) -type profile (or other profile, as desired. or suitable) of such size, profile, and internal diameter that the front end ball or flange of a mounting shaft in a vacuum cleaner filter case can be forced up and through opening 1118, in a manner as discussed hereinbefore, to retain a filter assembly of the present description N ^ j * '·) iMj.X.CaNO V in the filter case and seated against the base of the suction apparatus.

Retaining ring 1116 is integral, it will be formed in the TJpa I ITtTcuinu part of the manufacturing procedure. In the event that the ring 1116 is not integral and is a separate element of the filter assembly, it can be attached to the upper surface 1111 by any number of appropriate chemical (eg, glue) or mechanical methods, without limitation.

In Figure 16, a perspective view of the design of a filter assembly 1200 is illustrated, in a manner similar to that presented in Figure 15. As shown therein, the filter assembly 1200 comprises an integrated cover section. integrally formed 1210, an end ring 1230, and, a pleated filter element of generally cylindrical profile 1220 intermediate between cap 1210 and end ring 1230 and extending in a closed, circumferential inner path, (not shown), similar to the design of filter assembly 100 described above. As illustrated in the figure, the integrated lid 1210 may optionally further comprise one or more (two are shown) integrally formed handles 1212, 1214 as shown, a formed edge or edge 1217, and an opening 1218, such as a hole. formed or molded, slot, or other appropriate opening, formed either in the center of the cap 1210, or formed off-center from the central and vertical axis of the filter, as appropriate. Aperture 1218 extends from top surface 1211 of cap 1210 through the cap to the interior, closed, airflow path formed by filter 1220. Cap 1210 may also optionally comprise a

IMPI plurality of integrally formed support struts structural integrity to cap section 110. As illustrated in the figure, struts 1215 may extend radially outward from aperture 1218 toward, and optionally integrate with, intermediate edge 1217 of the lid. As also shown in FIG. 16, filter cap 1210 of filter 1200 may further comprise an outer edge region 1219 that substantially circumscribes edge 1217, and extends outwardly a distance such that its outer edge 1222 is substantially at the same plane as, and does not extend past, the outer edge (diameter d.sub.3) of the 1220 filter element. In a non-limiting manner, as shown in the figure, the handle portions 1212 and 1214 may be substantially diametrically opposed in orientation, and may partially extend over the top and edges of the pleated filter element 1220, to allow the user to provide with a clamping surface to aid in the removal of the filter box from a vacuum appliance when changing filters. Although two handle portions 1212 and 1214 are illustrated, it will be recognized that the filter assemblies described herein may have no handles, a single handle, or more than two handles, which can be oriented in a variety of ways, such as perpendicular to the upper face of the cap portion or in a plane substantially in alignment with the upper surface of the cap 1110, without limitation. As illustrated in Figure 16, the opening 1218 in the cap 1210 may optionally be circumscribed by an annular retaining ring.

Ι'λ ν '. V „ivi r ι Mexican institute &amp; * ·· &amp;? ' J] integrally or non-integrally formed 1216 that has a peffiK ^ Otel size, profile and internal diameter that the ball or flange end-front gives a --- mounting arrow in a filter housing of a vacuum cleaner can be forced up and by opening 1218, in a manner as discussed herein before, to retain a filter assembly 1200 of the description present in the filter case (not shown) and seated against the base of the suction apparatus. If retaining ring 1216 is integral, it will preferably be formed in cap 1210 as part of the manufacturing process. In the event that the ring 1216 is not integral and is a separate element of the filter assembly, it may be connected to the upper surface 1211 by any number of appropriate chemicals (for example, glue) or mechanical methods or mechanical means (such as as by a flexible hinge portion of elastomeric material), without limitation, as described above.

A common problem surrounding the use of liquid / dust vacuums is that their filters are not suitable for use with liquid materials. When typical liquid / dust vacuum filters that have paper filters or similar types of filter elements are exposed to water or even damp materials (for example, wet leaves), the water tends to wet the paper filters and filters. destroys quickly under harsh vacuum cleaning conditions. Consequently, such filters must be either removed prior to use of the liquid / dust suct ion apparatus with wet debris, or replaced frequently due to their rapid rate of removal. ⁶⁷ IMPI ^

INSTHW, “« 'CAN', «í de la fr fieoad r * ^ industrial jamming, rendering them largely unsuitable for use to lift wet debris. Wet vacuum cleaning is even more complicated by several other factors. First, while dirt and wet debris tend to stay in the tank and do not get caught in the vacuum discharge, cleaning wet and dry mixed materials without a filter in place can lead to dust spewing from the vacuum. escape. Furthermore, even in cases where only liquid is collected, the liquid tends to become aerosolized and discharged from the vacuum cleaner. Additionally, most liquid / dust vacuums include shut-off valves to prevent liquid from being drawn by the suction unit when the tank is filled with a liquid. However, these valves tend to connect only at the last minute, generally resulting in at least some spillage or scattering of liquid from the vacuum cleaner. The filter assembly 1300 shown in Figure 17 and related figures addresses these problems.

Figure 17 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary filter assembly in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention relating to the removal of wet debris. Figure 18 illustrates a side view of the filter assembly of Figure 17 Figure 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the filter assembly of Figure 17 Figure 20 illustrates a top view of the filter assembly of Figure 17 Figure 21 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of Figure 17 These figures will be discussed one in combination with the other.

In figure 17, a perspective view of the assembly is illustrated.

IMFIO> F of filter 1300 to lift wet debris (use liquidicfc ^ p ^^^ n ^^ Sl ^^ an integrally formed end plate section 1310, a sealing end ring 1330 (not shown), and, a generally cylindrical profile filter 1320 intermediate between cap 1310 and sealing end ring 1330 and extending in a closed, circumferential path that includes and forms a closed, inner region. Integrated end plate 1310, equivalently referred to herein as a cap, may further optionally comprise one, two, or more (eg, three, four, five, etc.) integrally formed handle portions 1312, 1314 (two are shown). , and a hole or aperture formed 1318 at or substantially near the center of the end plate, The centrally formed opening 1318 extends from the upper surface 1311 of the end plate 1310 through the closed, indoor air flow path formed by the filter element 1320. End plate 1310 may also optionally comprise a plurality of support struts 1315 to add structural integrity to the end plate itself, such support struts are optionally integrally formed with top surface 1310 or not integrally formed. As shown in the figure, the handle portions 1312 and 1314 may be substantially diametrically opposed in orientation, and may partially extend over the top and edges of the pleated filter element 1320, to allow the user to be provided with a gripping surface to assist in the removal of the filter box from a vacuum cleaner when changing filters. Although two are illustrated

IMPIOS handle portions 1312 and 1314, will be recognized or

INDUSTRIAL handles described herein may have no handles, a single handle, or more than two handles (eg, three or four handles), which can be oriented in a variety of ways, such as perpendicular to the top face of the portion of the handle. cap, without limitation. As illustrated in FIG. 17, opening 1318 in cap 1310 may be circumscribed by integrally or non-integrally formed annular retaining means, such as retaining ring 1316 having an overall taurus (donut) profile of such size, profile and internal diameter that the ball or end flange of the mounting shaft in the filter housing of a vacuum cleaner can be forced up and through the opening 1318 as discussed earlier herein (See, for example, the discussion surrounding the exemplary filter assembly of Figure 2), to retain a filter assembly of the disclosure present in the filter case and seated against the base of the suction apparatus. If retaining ring 1316 is integral, it will be formed on end plate 1310 as part of the manufacturing procedure. In the event that the ring 1316 is not integral and is a separate element of the filter assembly, it can be attached to the top surface 1311 by any number of appropriate chemical (eg, glue) or mechanical methods, without limitation.

Figure 18 illustrates a side view of the filter assembly 1300 of Figure 17, showing in particular the dimensional relationships between the integrated end plate 1310, the filter element 1320, and the sealing end ring 1330. As shown in the same, in an exemplary aspect not

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£ ~ LA M VIEDAI) Limiting description, mounting end plate supétWWe ^ hear

1310 has an outer diameter di which is the same in all orientations, due to the substantially circular shape of the end plate 1310. The filter element 1320, which is integrally connected to the underside of the end plate 1310, has an outer diameter ds . In accordance with this exemplary, non-limiting aspect of the present disclosure, the outer diameter ds of the filter element 1320 may be greater than the outer diameter di of the end plate 110. As illustrated, only the formed handles 1312, 1314 extend outwardly in such a way as to extend over the outer edge of the filter element 1320, so that the diameter dg between the outer edges of the handles 1312 is greater than the outside diameter ds of filter element 1320.

Figure 19 illustrates a bottom perspective view of the exemplary liquid filter 1300, showing the sealing end ring 1330 and an embodiment where the filter element 1320 outside of the filter assembly 1300 may also include at least one element. secondary filter element, inner 1352, the secondary filter element is inner to the primary filter element 1320. Similar to filter element 1320, secondary filter element 1352 circumscribes the inner region of the filter assembly, and is also intermediate between cap 1310 and sealing end ring 1330, which extends in a closed, circumferential path that includes and forms the inner, closed region.

Figure 20 illustrates an exemplary top view of the

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INSTITUTE MF.XIO.NQ filter 1300 of figure 17, showing an outer embodiment of filter element 1320 extending beyond-the · shore · outer—^!—

1360 end plate 1310 (for example, d₃ is greater than di, with reference to figure 18). Figure 21 illustrates a cross-sectional perspective view of an exemplary filter 1300 of the present disclosure generally illustrated in Figure 17, taken along the line 21-21, and showing the filter seals, the primary filter element 1320, secondary filter element 1352 of filter element assembly 1350, and end plate 1310. As shown in the figure, the secondary filter element 1352, which will be described in more detail below, is connected to the end plate 1310 and the sealing end cap 1330 and is disposed within the primary filter element 1320, so circumscribing the inner region of filter 1300. Figure 22 illustrates an alternate view of the arrangement of the filter elements relative to each other, such that the filter element 1320 is outside the filter assembly 1300, and the secondary filter element, screen 1352, is in inside the filter assembly.

Figures 23 and 24 illustrate a further embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the filter element 1350 assembly is comprised of the primary filter element 1320, an intermediate and secondary filter element 1352, such as a screen filter element, and an innermost tertiary filter element 1354, which is also preferably a filter screen element. As generally illustrated in Figure 23, filter element 1352 has a mesh size of

<img file="MX348754B_D0017.tif" />

IRSTITUTO MEXICO DE LA PROFI ΕΟΛI> screen that is larger than that of the filter element more^Nhf &^Lffo

The secondary filter element 1352 can also be a size of ^ ^!screen mesh less than or substantially equivalent to the pore size of the primary filter element 1320, which is in preferred embodiments an open cell polyurethane foam filter material.

The primary filter element 1320 proper for use with the liquid filter assembly 1300 illustrated herein is preferably a foam material, and more preferably is an open cell polyurethane (PU) foam material, such as a foam material. made of polyester polyurethane (PU) foam. Such filter element 1320 material is capable of repeated exposure to water and aqueous debris without degradation, and allows air flow through the filter element during removal of wet debris. The thickness of the PU 1320 open cell foam primary filter element may range from about 0.254 cm (0.1 inch) to about 5.08 cm (2.0 ") more preferably from about 0.63 cm (0.25 inch to about 3.81 inches), including about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches) about 1.90 cm (0.75 inches), about 2.54 cm (1.0 inch), and about 3.17 cm (1.25 inches), inclusive, as well as ranges between these range values, such as from about 1.27 cm (0.5 inches) to about 1.90 cm (0.75 inches). These PU foam materials can be obtained from any convenient open cell polyurethane foaming reaction, such as

IMPI INSTITUTO MEXICANO between a polyol and an isocyanate, using any type of blowing (for example, water). As used herein, the terms "open cell" and "open cell foam" mean a foam that possesses an interconnection or opening between adjacent cells, the content of the open cell is expressed as a percent when measured according to ASTM D2856-A. or an equivalent test method. Preferably, according to aspects of this embodiment of the invention, the PU foam will have an open cell content according to ASTM D 2856-A ranging from 20-80% (+ 5%), inclusive. Alternatively, or in addition to the open foam content characteristics, the PU foam material useful as the primary filter element 1320 is a PU foam having a cell structure with about 3.93 pores per cm (ppcm) at about 23.6 pores per cm (ppcm), inclusive (± 1.96 ppcm), including from approximately 5.90 ppcm to approximately 19.68 ppcm (± 1.96 ppcm), and from approximately 7.87 ppcm to approximately 15.74 ppcm (inclusive), ± 1.96 ppcm, as determined using ASTM D 3574 or an equivalent test method.

Secondary filter screen element 1352, and tertiary filter screen element 1354, when used, are selected such that screen elements 1352 and 1354 have mesh sizes that are not equivalent (for example, secondary element filter has a screen mesh size larger than that of the tertiary filter element, and vice versa), and is capable of being formed into mesh boxes. The elements of

<img file="MX348754B_D0018.tif" />

<img file="MX348754B_D0019.tif" />

Filter screens can be formed from any mafe ^ al'r ^ including polymers, metals, and metal alloys: 'In accordance with selected aspects of the description, the mesh can be formed from stainless steel wire, although other Corrosion resistant metals for the mesh (eg copper, galvanized steel wire, etc.). In accordance with select aspects of the invention, the filter screen material may be a woven wire mesh (such as steel) of select mesh size that is coated with one or more polymeric materials, or hot dip galvanized.

The secondary and tertiary filter elements, the filter screens 1352 and 1354, when used in combination with the primary filter element 1320, are sandwiched together prior to being formed in the filter assembly 1300 intermediate between the end plate 1310 and the end plate. end ring 1330. As illustrated in FIG. 24, it is preferable that the secondary filter element (filter screen 1352) is sandwiched between the primary filter element 1320 and tertiary filter element (filter screen 1354). As also illustrated in this figure, the mesh size of screen 1352 is preferably larger than that of screen 1354. Alternatively, although not shown, the mesh size of screen 1352 may be less than that of screen 1354 . The mesh size of the secondary and tertiary filter elements (filter screens 1352 and 1354) can be described in terms of the kink and screen weft, the screens are generally comprised of a plurality of kink elements and

......,, ... INJTITVTO MiXICANO a plurality of weft elements interwoven into a repeating weave pattern. According to aspAníns seiActnR ... of the invention, the weft can range from about 1mm to about 15mm, more preferably from about 2mm to about 10mm, and the twist can range from about 2mm to about 20mm , more preferably from about 4mm to about 15mm, inclusive. In a non-limiting example, the screen may have a mesh defined by a fabric with a weft of approximately 5mm and a twist of approximately 7mm. In another non-limiting example, the screen can be defined by a mesh with a weave having a weft and / or weave of approximately 4.7mm. Alternatively and equivalents, the mesh size of 1352, 1354 screens can be described in terms of ASTM mesh size, such as from ASTM 3 mesh size to ASTM 80 mesh size, including approximately ASTM 3.5, ASTM 4, ASTM 5, ASTM 6, ASTM 7, ASTM 8, ASTM 9, ASTM 10, ASTM 12, ASTM 14, ASTM 16, ASTM 18, ASTM 20, ASTM 25, ASTM 30, ASTM 35, ASTM 40, ASTM 45, ASTM 50, ASTM 60, and ASTM 70.

Figures 24 and 25 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure wherein filter assembly 1300 has an upper end plate 1310 'with an outer edge 1360 with a diameter that is substantially coincident with the outer edge of filter element 1320.

Also, as shown in the bottom view of Figure 25, the ring

MEXICAN INSTITUTE

The sealing end 1330 may also have an outer edge that is substantially coincident with the outer edge of the filter element 1320.

Other and additional embodiments utilizing one or more aspects of the above-described inventions may be contemplated without departing from the spirit of Applicant's invention. For example, the combinations of features shown can be combined, and different materials than those recited can be used with similar results. In such an example, any of the filter assemblies described herein may include a single handle element that extends radially outward from the center hole in the upper end plate, which extends beyond the outer face edge of the filter element. . In addition, the various methods and modalities of the manufacturing and assembly methods of the system, as well as the location specifications, can be included in combination with each other to produce variations of the described methods and modalities. Discussion of items in the singular can include items in the plural and vice versa.

The order of steps can occur in a variety of sequences, unless specifically limited otherwise. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, intermixed with the established steps, and / or can be divided into multiple steps. Elements were also functionally described and can be represented as separate components, or they can be combined into

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INSTIT 'Πϊ ¹ MEXICAM> Jl * components that have multiple functions.

Inventions have been described in ..... the¹ context - preferred and other modalities and not every embodiment of the invention has been described. Obvious modifications and alterations to the described modalities are available to those skilled in the art. The described and undescribed modalities are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the invention conceived by Applicants, but instead, pursuant to patent laws, Applicants intend to fully protect all from such modifications and improvements that fall within within the scope or range of equivalents of the following claims.

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