WO2025075945A1 - Floating trlseal filter element, filtration system, and method of assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

A filter element includes a first endplate, a first sealing member, a second endplate, a second sealing member, and a third sealing member. The first endplate defines a first endplate opening. The first sealing member is coupled to the first endplate at a first endplate opening. The second endplate sealingly engages the media pack second end. The second endplate includes a base that defines a second endplate opening. The second endplate also includes an extension extending axially away from the base and the media pack. The second sealing member is coupled to the second endplate at the second endplate opening. The third sealing member is coupled to the extension. Each of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, and the third sealing member are radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against a sealing surface.

Description

FLOATING TRI-SEAL FILTER ELEMENT, FILTRATION SYSTEM, AND

METHOD OF ASSEMBLY

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001 | The present application claims priority to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/542,189, filed October 3, 2023. The contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to filters for use with internal combustion engine systems.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Internal combustion engine systems require a clean source of fluids (e.g., fuel, oil, etc.) to power and lubricate the engine. Unfiltered fluids may include dirt, metal particles, and other solid contaminants that can damage engine components (e.g., fuel injectors, cylinder rings, pistons, etc.). In order to protect the engine components, the internal combustion engine systems may include a filtration system, which filters incoming and/or recirculating fluids to remove any solid materials before passing the fluids to the engine. In some instances, the filtration system includes a filter housing assembly and a replaceable filter cartridge, which may be periodically replaced by an operator and/or technician to maintain the differential pressure across the filtration system to within reasonable levels.

SUMMARY

[0004[ One embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter element including a media pack, a first endplate, a first sealing member, a second endplate, a second sealing member, and a third sealing member. The media pack includes a media pack first end and a media pack second end that is opposite the media pack first end. The first endplate sealingly engages the media pack first end. The first endplate defines a first endplate opening. The first sealing member is coupled to the first endplate at the first endplate opening. The second endplate sealingly engages the media pack second end. The second endplate includes a base that defines a second endplate opening. The second endplate also includes an extension extending axially away from the base and the media pack. The second sealing member is coupled to the second endplate at the second endplate opening. The third sealing member is coupled to the extension. Each of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, and the third sealing member are radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against a sealing surface.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first endplate defines a plurality of protrusions extending from an axially-facing surface of the first endplate and away from the media pack.

[0006[ In at least one embodiment, the extension is a cylindrical protrusion that extends axially away from the base. In some embodiments, an outer diameter of the cylindrical protrusion is less than an outer diameter of the second endplate at a location where the media pack engages the second endplate.

|0007] In at least one embodiment, the second endplate further includes a plurality of endplate ribs that extend between the base and the extension. In some embodiments, an inner diameter of at least one of the plurality of endplate ribs is greater than an inner diameter of the second endplate opening.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the base defines a first housing interface surface facing axially away from the media pack and a second housing interface surface facing axially away from the media pack. In some embodiments, the second housing interface surface is separated from the first housing interface surface by the extension.

[0009| In at least one embodiment, the media pack defines a central opening, and wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are disposed at least partially within the central opening.

[0010] In some embodiments, the base protrudes radially away from the extension. [0011] Another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a filter assembly that includes a housing assembly and a filter element. The housing assembly includes a shell (e.g., a housing, a cannister, an enclosure body, etc.), an outer standpipe, and an inner standpipe. The shell defines an inner cavity. The outer standpipe is coupled to the shell and extends into the inner cavity. The inner standpipe is coupled to the shell and extends through the outer standpipe. The filter element includes a first sealing member, a second sealing member, and a third sealing member. The first sealing member is engageable with the inner standpipe. The second sealing member is engageable with the outer standpipe. The third sealing member is engageable with the shell.

[00121 In at least one embodiment, the outer standpipe includes a conduit and a standpipe flange extending radially away from the conduit. In some embodiments, the filter element includes an endplate that is engageable with the standpipe flange when the filter element is fully installed into the shell. In some embodiments, the standpipe flange defines a plurality of standpipe supports extending axially away from a closed end of the shell. In some embodiments, the endplate is engageable with the plurality of standpipe supports when the filter element is fully installed into the shell.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the filter element includes an endplate including a base, a cylindrical protrusion extending axially away from the base, and a plurality of endplate ribs extending between the base and the cylindrical protrusion. In some embodiments, the outer standpipe includes a conduit and a standpipe flange extending radially away from the conduit. In some embodiments, an inner diameter of the plurality of endplate ribs is greater than an outer diameter of the standpipe flange.

|0014] In at least one embodiment, the filter element includes an endplate including a panel defining a first housing interface surface, and an extension extending axially away from the panel and extending along an outer perimeter of the first housing interface surface. In some embodiments, the panel engages the housing assembly along the first housing interface surface.

[0015| In at least one embodiment, the filter element includes an endplate defining a first housing interface surface and a second housing interface surface. In some embodiments, the housing assembly includes a filter endplate support that is engageable with the first housing interface surface. In some embodiments, the shell defines an inner ledge that is engageable with the second housing interface surface.

[0016] In some embodiments, the inner standpipe and the outer standpipe together form a standpipe assembly, and wherein the inner standpipe is made from a different material or has a different thickness relative to the outer standpipe along at least a portion of the standpipe assembly.

[0017] Still another embodiment of the present disclosure relates to a method of installing a filter element into a filter housing assembly. The method includes inserting the filter element into a shell of the filter housing assembly so that (i) a standpipe of the filter housing assembly extends through the filter element, and (ii) a first sealing member coupled to an endplate of the filter element engages the shell. The method also includes engaging the endplate of the filter element with a filter endplate support of the filter housing assembly along a first interface surface of the endplate that extends radially away from the first sealing member and toward a central axis of the filter element.

[G018] In some embodiments, the standpipe is an inner standpipe of a standpipe assembly that also includes an outer standpipe. In some embodiments, the method further includes engaging a second sealing member of the filter element with the inner standpipe, and engaging a third sealing member of the filter element with the outer standpipe of the filter housing assembly.

[0019] In some embodiments, engaging the endplate of the filter element with the filter endplate support comprises engaging the endplate with a standpipe flange of the standpipe that extends radially away from a conduit of the standpipe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The foregoing and other features of the present disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only several implementations in accordance with the disclosure and are therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings.

[0021] FIG. l is a side perspective view of a filter assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a side view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1.

|0023] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1.

|0024] FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter housing assembly of the filter assembly of FIG. 1.

[0025] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge that may be used with the filter assembly of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

[0026| FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 5.

[0027| FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the filter assembly of FIG. 1.

[0028| FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter housing assembly portion of the filter assembly of FIG. 1.

[0029] FIG. 9 is a reproduction of a portion of the side cross-sectional view of FIG. 8, showing a filter-housing interface of the filter assembly.

[0030] FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter assembly, according to another embodiment.

|003.1] FIG. 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter housing assembly of the filter assembly of FIG. 10.

[0032] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge that may be used with the filter assembly of FIG. 10, according to an embodiment.

[0033 FIG. 13 is a side cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 12. [0034] FIG. 14 is a reproduction of a portion of the side cross-sectional view of FIG. 10, showing a filter-housing interface of the filter assembly.

|0035] FIG. 15 is a side cross-sectional view of a filter cartridge, according to another embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 15.

[0037] FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method of installing a filter cartridge into a filter housing assembly, according to an embodiment.

|0038] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings throughout the following detailed description. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative implementations described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other implementations may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein, and illustrated in the figures, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are explicitly contemplated and made part of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

|0039] Embodiments described herein relate generally to filter cartridge (e.g., filter element, etc.) designs having a unique arrangement of sealing members that, when in use, maintain the filter cartridge under compression due to the pressure gradient across the filter cartridge, while at the same time allowing movement of the filter cartridge within the filter housing assembly to accommodate dimensional variation in the height of the filter cartridge. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in greater detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular manner of implementation. Examples of specific implementations and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes. I. Overview

[0040] A replaceable filter cartridge may include various components to facilitate engagement and sealing of the filter cartridge within a filter housing assembly. For example, filter cartridges generally include sealing members, such as O-rings and/or gaskets, that are used to sealingly engage the filter cartridge with a filter housing assembly or conduit. The sealing members prevent bypass of dirty fluids across the filter cartridge while allowing removal of the filter cartridge for service and/or replacement. The design of the sealing interface, between the filter housing assembly and the filter cartridge, affects the maximum fluid pressure that can be achieved through the filtration assembly before fluid leakage and/or bypass occurs. The position and arrangement of the sealing members on the filter cartridge can also determine how fluid flows through the filter cartridge during operation. In order to ensure sealing and reduce the risk of leakage across the sealing member(s), the filter assembly may include one or more springs or supports that maintain compression between the sealing member(s) and the filter housing assembly.

[00411 Referring to the figures generally, various filter assemblies are shown that include a unique arrangement of sealing members that are configured to improve sealing performance and the overall structural integrity of the filter cartridge under an applied fluid pressure during operation, without requiring springs or other components that are separate from the filter housing assembly. In at least one embodiment, the filter assembly includes a filter housing assembly and a filter cartridge. The filter housing assembly includes a dual standpipe assembly that is configured to direct the flow of fluid into and out of the filter housing assembly. The filter cartridge is a tri-seal filter cartridge including three radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against the filter housing assembly in different locations along the filter housing assembly. Two of the sealing members are engageable with the dual standpipe structure of the filter housing assembly to prevent bypass between the clean and dirty sides of the filter cartridge. The third sealing member is configured to engage a shell of the filter housing assembly to prevent fluid bypass into a lube return region and/or sump of the shell. The arrangement of the sealing members, in combination with the dual standpipe structure, maintains the filter cartridge under compression during operation, which can reduce the risk of component separation and damage.

|0042] In at least one embodiment, each of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, and the third sealing member are radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against respective radially-facing sealing surfaces of the filter housing assembly. The use of radial sealing members in such an arrangement allows for axial movement of the filter cartridge within the shell to accommodate variations in height of the filter cartridge due to dimensional tolerances without sacrificing sealing performance.

|0043] In at least one embodiment, the filter cartridge includes an endplate that supports at least one sealing member. The endplate includes a base that is coupled to a media pack of the filter cartridge, and an extension extending axially away from the base. The at least one sealing member is coupled to the extension. In some embodiments, the endplate also includes a plurality of endplate ribs that extend axially between the base and the extension and support the extension under a radially compressive force due to the applied fluid pressure across the filter cartridge.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, the filter housing assembly includes support elements that engage the filter cartridge to support at least one sealing member against a radially compressive force caused by the applied fluid pressure across the filter cartridge. For example, in some embodiments, the third sealing member is coupled to an endplate of the filter cartridge. The dual standpipe structure includes a radial flange that engages the endplate when the filter cartridge is fully installed into the filter housing assembly to prevent bending or deformation of the endplate during operation. In some embodiments, the radial flange is also engageable with the endplate at an inner perimeter of the endplate ribs, which can increase contact area between the endplate and the standpipe structure.

|0045] In other embodiments, the endplate engages another feature of the filter housing assembly to support the third sealing member in compression against the shell. For example, the endplate may be engageable with an axial protrusion of the housing in an area of the endplate located between the at least one sealing member and an inner diameter of the endplate. In some embodiments, the endplate includes a radial ledge protruding radially away from the third sealing member that is engageable with at least one housing flange of the shell.

IL Example Filter Assembly

|0046] FIGS. 1-3 show a filter assembly 100 for a filtration system, according to at least one embodiment. The filter assembly 100 is configured to filter a fluid provided to an internal combustion engine. The fluid may be a fuel, an engine oil, a hydraulic oil, or another lubricant In the example embodiment of FIGS. 1-3, the filter assembly 100 is part of a lube filtration system for a diesel engine. The filter assembly 100 is configured to be mounted on the diesel engine but may be mounted remotely from the diesel engine in various example embodiments.

|0047] The filter assembly 100 includes a filter housing assembly 102 and a filter cartridge 104 (e.g., a filter element, etc.). The filter cartridge 104 is disposed within a shell of the filter housing assembly 102 and is configured to filter a fluid flowing through the filter housing assembly 102. The filter cartridge 104 is a tri-seal filter cartridge that includes three individual sealing elements that are engageable with respective sealing surfaces of the filter housing assembly 102 to sealingly engage the filter cartridge 104 with the filter housing assembly 102.

III. Example Filter Housing assembly

|0048] Referring to FIG. 3, the filter housing assembly 102 includes a shell 106 (e g., a housing, a cannister, an enclosure body, etc.), a standpipe assembly 108 (e.g., a dual standpipe, etc.), and a lid 110 (e.g., a cover, a cap, etc.). In other embodiments, the filter housing assembly 102 may include additional, fewer, and/or different components.

[0049] The shell 106 includes a cylindrical wall having an open end 111 and a closed end 114 at an opposite axial end of the shell 106 as the open end 111. The cylindrical wall defines an inner cavity 112 that is configured to receive the filter cartridge 104 therein. The shell 106 is engageable with the lid 110 at an open end of the inner cavity 112. In some embodiments, the lid 110 is threadably engageable with the shell 116. The shell 106 and the lid 110 may be made from the same or different materials. For example, the shell 106 and/or the lid 110 may be made (e.g., cast or otherwise formed) from an aluminum material or another durable and rigid material. In other embodiments, the shell 106 and/or the lid 110 may be made (e.g., injection molded or otherwise formed) from a plastic material.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 4, the shell 106 defines a cylindrical inner cavity having a substantially circular cross-section. The shell 106 defines an inner ledge 107 (e.g., inner step, etc.) adjacent to the closed end 114 of the shell 106 and extending radially inwardly from the cylindrical wall. The inner ledge 107 defines a fluid return and/or a sump 117 at the closed end 114 of the shell 106. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the shell 106 includes at least one fluid passage and/or opening within the sump 117 that connects the sump 117 to an oil pan or another fluid reservoir.

[0051 ] The shell 106 also includes a plurality of shell conduits, including an inner shell conduit 118 and an outer shell conduit 120 that both extend axially into the inner cavity 112 from the closed end 114. The inner shell conduit 118 defines a fluid inlet passage configured to direct dirty fluid into the inner cavity 1 12. The outer shell conduit 120 is concentric with the inner shell conduit 118 and defines a fluid outlet passage configured to direct clean fluid out of the inner cavity 112.

[0052] The standpipe assembly 108 is a twin (e.g., dual, etc.) flow passage standpipe that defines two separate flow passages to direct fluid flow into and out of the inner cavity 112. Referring still to FIG. 4, the standpipe assembly 108 includes an outer standpipe 121 and an inner standpipe 122 that is disposed within the outer standpipe 121. In some embodiments, the outer standpipe 121 is concentric with the inner standpipe 122. The outer standpipe 121 is coupled to the shell 106 and extends into the inner cavity 112. The inner standpipe 122 is coupled to the shell 106 and extends through the outer standpipe 121.

[0053 [ In some embodiments, both the outer standpipe 121 and the inner standpipe 122 are threadably coupled to the shell 106 and each include at least one sealing member (e.g., an O- ring, a gasket, etc.) that sealingly engages the standpipe with the shell 106. In other embodiments, the outer standpipe 121 and/or the inner standpipe 122 are welded or otherwise fixedly coupled to the shell 106. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the outer standpipe 121 is sealingly engaged with the outer shell conduit 120 by an outer standpipe seal member 113. The inner standpipe 122 is sealingly engaged with the inner shell conduit 118 by an inner standpipe seal member 115. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, both the outer standpipe seal member and the inner standpipe seal member are radially facing seal members (e.g., O-rings, etc.) that are configured to press against an inner surface of the outer shell conduit 120 and the inner shell conduit 118, respectively, in a radial direction. Both the outer standpipe 121 and the inner standpipe 122 include a standpipe conduit that extends axially into the inner cavity 112.

[0054] The inner standpipe 122 is configured to maintain stiffness and limit displacement of the filter cartridge 104 (see FIG. 3) due to system vibrations (e.g., engine-induced vibrations, etc.) that could be exported to a distal end of the inner standpipe 122 (e.g., and end of the inner standpipe 122 that supports the filter cartridge). In some embodiments, the inner standpipe 122 is formed from one of an aluminum material, steel, or another rigid and non-compliant material. Such an arrangement can reduce exported vibrations to the filter cartridge 104. In other embodiments, the inner standpipe 122 may be formed from a composite material and/or a plastic material.

[0055| In some embodiments, the outer standpipe 121 is made from the same material as the inner standpipe 122. In other embodiments, and because only the inner standpipe 122 supports the filter cartridge at a distal end of the standpipe assembly 108, the outer standpipe 121 may be made from a composite material and/or a plastic material that is lighter than the inner standpipe 122, and that has less strength and/or greater flexibility than the inner standpipe 122. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, a thickness 127 of the outer standpipe 121, along a radial direction relative to the central axis of the standpipe assembly 108, is less than a thickness 129 of the inner standpipe 122 along at least a portion of the length of the standpipe assembly 108. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the thickness 129 of a first portion of the inner standpipe 122 that extends through an opening defined by the outer standpipe 121 is less than the thickness 129 of a second portion of the inner standpipe 122 that extends between the first portion and the shell 106 (e.g., the inner standpipe 122 includes a stepwise change in thickness along its length, etc.). [0056] In at least one embodiment, the outer standpipe 121 includes a standpipe conduit 124 and a standpipe flange 126 extending radially away from the standpipe conduit 124 at a proximal end of the standpipe conduit 124 that contacts or otherwise engages the shell 106. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, an axial position of the standpipe flange 126 within the inner cavity 112 is approximately equal to an axial position of the inner ledge 107 of the shell 106 when the outer standpipe 121 is fully installed into the shell 106.

[0057] In at least one embodiment, the standpipe flange 126 includes a plurality of standpipe supports, shown as standpipe ribs 132 that are engageable with the filter cartridge to support the filter cartridge under the compressive force due to the applied fluid pressure across the filter cartridge, as will be further described. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the standpipe ribs 132 are substantially linear ribs that protrude upwardly from (e.g., axially away from, etc.) the standpipe flange 126 and extend (radially) across an axially facing surface of the standpipe flange 126. In other embodiments, the standpipe ribs 132 may be formed in another shape or pattern. In yet other embodiments, the standpipe ribs 132 may be at least partially defined by the outer shell conduit 120 (e.g., by an axially facing surface at a distal end of the outer shell conduit 120 that is spaced axially apart from the closed end 114, etc.).

[0058] In at least one embodiment, the filter housing assembly 102 defines at least three radially facing sealing surfaces that are engageable with the filter cartridge 104 (see FIG. 3) to prevent leakage between the clean and dirty sides of the filter cartridge 104, and/or between the filter cartridge 104 and the fluid return and/or the sump 117.

[0059] Referring again to FIG. 4, the radially facing sealing surfaces include a first sealing surface 134, a second sealing surface 136, and a third sealing surface 138. The first sealing surface 134 is defined by the inner standpipe 122 and extends axially between a distal end (e.g., a free end, an outer end, etc.) of the inner standpipe 122 and a distal end (e.g., a free end, an outer end, etc.) of the outer standpipe 121. The second sealing surface 136 is defined by the outer standpipe 121 and is disposed along a proximal end of the outer standpipe 121 that is adjacent to the closed end 114 of the shell 106. The third sealing surface 138 is defined by the shell 106 and extends axially from the inner ledge 107 of the shell 106 toward the sump 117. IV. Example Filter cartridge

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 5-6, a filter cartridge 104 that is configured for use in the filter housing assembly 102 of FIG. 4 is shown, according to an embodiment. The filter cartridge 104 includes a media pack 140, a first endplate 142 (e.g., an upper endplate as shown in FIGS. 5-6), a second endplate 146 (e.g., a lower endplate as shown in FIGS. 5-6), a first sealing member 148, a second sealing member 150, and a third sealing member 152. In other embodiments, the filter cartridge 104 may include additional, fewer, and/or different components.

|006.l] The media pack 140 is a formed filter media pack having a media pack first end 154 (e.g., a first axial end, etc.) and a media pack second end 156 opposite the media pack first end 154. The media pack 140 includes filter media that is pleated or otherwise formed into a desired shape. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, the media pack 140 is arranged as a cylindrical tube that circumscribes a central cavity 158 (e.g., a central opening, etc.) having a central axis 160. The formed filter media is structured to filter particulate matter from fluid flowing therethrough so as to produce filtered fluid (e.g., clean fluid). The filter media may include porous material having a predetermined pore size. The filter media may include a paper-based filter media, a fiber-based filter media, or the like.

]0062] The first endplate 142 sealingly engages the media pack first end 154. In at least one embodiment, the first endplate 142 is bonded (e.g., adhered, etc.) to the media pack first end 154 by glue or another adhesive material. In other embodiments, the media pack 140 is embedded within at least one end cap, which can eliminate the need for adhesive materials.

[0063| The first endplate 142 defines a first endplate opening 162 configured to receive a standpipe therein (e.g., the inner standpipe 122 described with reference to FIG. 4). In at least one embodiment, the first endplate 142 includes a first flange 159 (e.g., a cylindrical flange, an extension) that extends from a base wall of the first endplate 142 toward the second endplate 146. The first flange 159 is configured to extend at least partially into the central cavity 158 defined by the media pack 140. The first flange 159 defines a first endplate support surface 145 that faces radially inward toward the central axis 160 of the filter cartridge 104. The first endplate support surface 145 extends in a circumferential direction relative to the central axis 160.

|0064] In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, the first endplate support surface 145 defines the first endplate opening 162. The first endplate support surface 145 also supports the first sealing member 148 thereon so that the first sealing member 148 is engageable with the inner standpipe 122, as will be further described. In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the first endplate support surface 145 is angled relative to a central axis 160 of the filter cartridge 104. Such an arrangement can provide a tapered lead-in that facilitates alignment of the filter cartridge 104 with respect to the inner standpipe 122 during assembly (see also FIG. 4).

[0065] In some embodiments, the first endplate 142 also defines a plurality of protrusions 164 that are configured to maintain axial spacing between a surface of the first endplate 142 and the lid of the filter housing assembly, as will be further described. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of protrusions 164 are substantially cylindrical standoffs (e.g., studs, etc.) that extend from an axially facing surface of the first endplate 142 and away from the media pack 140. In other embodiments, the plurality of protrusions 164 may include at least one rib or elongated protrusion that extends at least partly radially across the first endplate 142. A height 141 of the plurality of protrusions 164, between an axial end of each of the plurality of protrusions 164 and a base wall of the first endplate 142, is approximately uniform across the first endplate 142. In some embodiments, the first endplate 142 also includes a plurality of elongated extensions, shown as first endplate ribs 163 that extend from the base wall of the first endplate 142 (at the location of each of the plurality of protrusions 164) to the first flange 159. In some embodiments, the plurality of protrusions 164 and/or the first endplate ribs 163 at least partly define a plurality of flow channels between the first endplate 142 and the lid when the filter cartridge 104 is installed into the filter housing assembly.

[0066] The second endplate 146 includes a base 166 (e.g., a base wall, a panel, etc.), an extension 168, and a plurality of endplate ribs 170. Referring to FIG. 6, the second endplate 146 (e.g., the base 166) sealingly engages the media pack second end 156. In at least one embodiment, the base 166 is bonded to the media pack second end 156 by glue or another adhesive material. In other embodiments, the media pack 140 (e.g., the media pack second end 156) is embedded within the material of the base 166.

(0067] The base 166 is a disc shaped panel that extends radially across the media pack second end 156. The base 166 defines a second endplate opening 172 extending therethrough. The second endplate opening 172 is configured to receive a standpipe therein (e.g., the outer standpipe 121 described with reference to FIG. 4). In some embodiments, the second endplate opening 172 is concentric with the first endplate opening 162.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the second endplate 146 includes a second flange 161 (e.g., a cylindrical flange) that extends from the base 166 toward the first endplate 142. The second flange 161 is configured to extend at least partially into a central cavity 158 defined by the media pack 140. The second flange 161 defines a second endplate support surface 147 that faces radially inward toward the central axis 160 of the filter cartridge 104. The second endplate support surface 147 extends in a circumferential direction relative to the central axis 160. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, the second endplate support surface 147 defines the second endplate opening 172. The second endplate support surface 147 also supports the second sealing member 150 thereon so that the second sealing member 150 is engageable with the outer standpipe 121, as will be further described.

]0069] In some embodiments, the first flange 159 of the first endplate 142 and the second flange 161 of the second endplate 146 are both configured to be disposed at least partially within the central cavity 158 defined by the media pack 140, so that the first sealing member 148 and the second sealing member 150 are at least partially disposed within the central cavity 158.

[0070| The extension 168 extends axially away from the base 166 and the media pack 140. The extension 168 is configured to support at least one sealing member (e.g., the third sealing member 152) on the second endplate 146. In some embodiments, the extension 168 defines a circumferential groove 151 that is configured to receive the at least one sealing member therein. In at least one embodiment, the extension 168 is a cylindrical protrusion that extends from the base 166 in an axial direction that is substantially normal to the base 166. In some embodiments, the cylindrical protrusion is arranged concentric with the base 166.

|0071] In some embodiments, an outer diameter 174 of the cylindrical protrusion is less than an outer diameter 176 of the base 166 at a location where the media pack 140 engages and/or extends into the base 166. Such an arrangement can facilitate alignment between the filter cartridge 104 and the shell of the filter housing assembly. Additionally, in some embodiments, the second endplate 146 is engageable with the inner ledge of the shell (e.g., the inner ledge 107 described with reference to FIG. 4), which can prevent over-insertion of the filter cartridge 104 into the shell.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 6, the second endplate 146 also includes a plurality of endplate supports, shown as endplate ribs 170, that are configured to support the extension 168 under an applied radial force due to the fluid pressure across the filter cartridge 104. In some embodiments, the endplate ribs 170 extend at least partially axially between the base 166 and the extension 168 (e.g., from the base 166 to the extension 168). In the embodiment of FIG. 6, an edge of the endplate ribs 170 (e.g., a lower edge, and outer edge, etc.) extends at an angle between the distal edge (e.g., a lower edge, a lower end, an axial end, etc.) of the extension 168 that is spaced apart from the base 166 and an axially facing surface of the base 166, which can increase the structural integrity of the extension 168 while reducing the amount of material required for the endplate ribs 170.

[0073] The endplate ribs 170 are spaced at intervals along an inner perimeter of the extension 168. In the embodiment of FIG. 6, the endplate ribs 170 are disposed at approximately equal intervals along a circumferential direction relative to the central axis 160 of the filter cartridge 104. It should be appreciated that the shape, number, and arrangement of the endplate ribs 170 may be different in various embodiments.

|0074] The first sealing member 148, the second sealing member 150, and the third sealing member 152 are radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against a radially facing sealing surface. The sealing members may be O-rings, gaskets, or another type of sealing member. In the embodiment of FIGS. 5-6, at least one of the sealing members are O- rings that are insertable into groove(s) in a respective one of the sealing surfaces of the filter housing assembly.

|0075] Referring again to FIG. 6, the first sealing member 148 is a radially inwardly facing sealing member that coupled to the first endplate 142 at the first endplate opening 162. The first sealing member 148 is engaged with the first endplate support surface 145 and extends in the circumferential direction relative to the central axis 160. The second sealing member 150 is a radially inwardly facing sealing member that is coupled to the second endplate 146 at the second endplate opening 172. The second sealing member 150 is engaged with the second endplate support surface 147 and extends in the circumferential direction relative to the central axis 160. The third sealing member 152 is coupled to the extension 168 and extends circumferentially along a radially outward facing surface of the extension 168.

[0076] Referring to FIGS. 7-8, a cross-sectional view through the filter assembly 100 of FIGS. 1-3 is shown, according to at least one embodiment. The sealing members (e g., the first sealing member 148, the second sealing member 150, and the third sealing member 152) are configured to sealingly engage the filter cartridge 104 with the filter housing assembly 102 to prevent fluid bypass between the clean and dirty sides of the filter cartridge 104 and to prevent pressurized fluid from leaking into the sump 117.

[0077] The first sealing member 148 sealingly engages the filter cartridge 104 with the inner standpipe 122 at the first sealing surface 134. The second sealing member 150 sealingly engages the filter cartridge 104 with outer standpipe 121 at the second sealing surface 136. Together, the first sealing member 148 and the second sealing member 150 prevent bypass between the clean and dirty sides of the filter cartridge 104.

[0078] The third sealing member 152 is configured to prevent bypass across the extension 168 due to the pressure drop between the inner cavity 112 and the sump 117, which can also reduce the risk of bypass between the clean and dirty sides of the filter cartridge 104. The third sealing member 152 sealingly engages the filter cartridge 104 with the shell 106 at the third sealing surface 138. [0079] Referring to FIG. 8, during operation, dirty fluid 123 enters the filter assembly 100 through the inner standpipe 122. The dirty fluid 123 passes radially through a passage between the first endplate 142 and the lid 110 and into an annular region of the inner cavity 112 between the filter cartridge 104 and the shell 106. The dirty fluid 123 passes radially through the filter cartridge 104, producing clean, filtered fluid 125 that returns through an annular passage defined by the inner standpipe 122 and the outer standpipe 121.

[0080] The arrangement of the standpipe assembly 108 and the radial sealing members results in a pressure differential across the filter cartridge 104 during operation that places the filter cartridge 104 under compression, which can reduce the risk of damage to the filter cartridge 104 (e.g., which can reduce the risk of the endplate separation from the media pack 140, etc.), as well as other components of the engine system.

[0081] In some embodiments, the filter assembly 100 is configured to utilize the compressive force to increase the structural integrity of the sealing interface between the filter cartridge 104 and the shell 106, which can reduce the risk of fluid leakage between the dirty side of the filter cartridge 104 and the return fluid channel (e.g., the sump 117). For example, as shown in FIG. 9, the filter assembly 100 is designed such that the compressive force acting on the filter cartridge 104 presses the second endplate 146 against a filter endplate support of the filter housing assembly 102. In some embodiments, the filter endplate support is disposed at, or extends to, an intermediate position 169 along the second endplate 146 that is disposed radially between the second endplate opening 172 and an inner perimeter of the extension 168 (e.g., approximately halfway between the second endplate opening 172 and the extension 168, etc.).

|0082] In some embodiments, an end wall of the filter housing assembly 102 defines the filter endplate support. For example, the outer shell conduit 120 may define the filter endplate support. In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the filter endplate support is defined by the standpipe flange 126 of the outer standpipe 121. The compressive force presses the base 166 of the second endplate 146 against the standpipe ribs 132 of the standpipe flange 126, which supports the second endplate 146 and prevents the second endplate 146 from bending or otherwise deforming as a result of the pressure differential between the inner cavity 112 and the sump 117. In yet other embodiments, both the outer shell conduit 120 and the standpipe flange 126 define the filter endplate support.

[0083] In at least one embodiment, an inner diameter 178 of the plurality of endplate ribs 170 is greater than an outer diameter 180 of the standpipe flange 126 (e.g., the standpipe ribs 132). Such an arrangement ensures that the second endplate 146 is supported across the base 166 and reduces the risk of damage to the standpipe ribs 132 during installation and operation. In some embodiments, the inner diameter 178 of the plurality of endplate ribs 170 is approximately equal to the outer diameter 180 of the standpipe flange 126, which can increase support due to the increased contact area between the second endplate 146 and the standpipe ribs 132.

[0084] The structure of the filter assembly 100 provides several improvements over existing filtration systems for use in liquid filtration applications. For example, engagement between the standpipe ribs 132 and the second endplate 146 can reduce the overall deflection or deformation of the second endplate 146 due to high fluid pressures in the inner cavity 112. The arrangement of the endplate ribs 170 around the inner peripheral region of the second endplate 146 can further reduce deflection of the second endplate 146 and can help ensure that the third sealing member 152 remains sealingly engaged with the shell 106. Additionally, the use of protrusions on the first endplate (shown as protrusions 164 in FIG. 5) in combination with the radial sealing arrangement between the filter cartridge 104 and the filter housing assembly 102 reduces axial travel of the filter cartridge 104 within the filter housing assembly 102 during operation, while accommodating any dimensional variations in the height of the filter cartridge 104 due to dimensional tolerances.

|0085[ It should be understood that the design and arrangement of the filter endplate support of the filter housing assembly may be different in various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 10, another embodiment of a filter assembly 200 is shown. The filter assembly 200 includes a filter housing assembly 202 and a filter cartridge 204 disposed therein. The filter housing assembly 202 and the filter cartridge 204 are designed to support an endplate of the filter cartridge 204 under radial and axial loading due to the pressure difference across the filter cartridge 204.

|0086] Referring to FIG. 11, a shell 216 of the filter housing assembly 202 includes an outer shell conduit 220 disposed proximate to a closed end 214 of the shell 216 and extending axially away from the closed end 214. An outer standpipe 221 is threadably engaged with or otherwise coupled to the outer shell conduit 220. The outer standpipe 221 includes a standpipe conduit 224 and a standpipe flange 226 extending radially away from the standpipe conduit 224.

|0087] In the embodiment of FIG. 11, an axial end of the outer shell conduit 220 that is spaced axially away from a closed end of the shell 216 defines a filter endplate support 227 that is engageable with the endplate of the filter cartridge 204 (see also FIG. 10). The outer shell conduit 220 protrudes axially beyond an upper surface of the standpipe flange 226 to a location between the standpipe flange 226 and an open end 21 1 of the shell 216. The filter endplate support 227 is a substantially planar surface that faces axially toward the open end 211 of the shell 216.

[0088] The shell 216 also includes an inner ledge 207 disposed adjacent to the closed end 214 of the shell 216 and extending radially away from a cylindrical wall of the shell 216. The inner ledge 207 defines an endplate interface surface 282 facing axially toward the open end 211 of the shell 216. In the embodiment of FIG. 11, the endplate interface surface 282 is coplanar with the filter endplate support 227, which can help to ensure a more equal force distribution between both sides of the endplate extension. Such a design can also simplify manufacturing and reduce tolerance stack-up as compared to an implementation with non- planar surfaces.

|0089[ Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the filter cartridge 204 includes a first endplate 242 and a second endplate 246 disposed on opposing axial ends of a media pack 240. The second endplate 246 includes a base 266 (e.g., a panel, a disc, etc.), an extension 268 extending axially away from the base 266, and a support flange 284. [0090] The base 266 defines a first housing interface surface 285 facing axially away from the base 266 and the media pack 240. The first housing interface surface 285 is engageable with the filter housing assembly 202. The extension 268 extends along the outer perimeter of the base 266. The support flange 284 extends radially away from the extension 268 and the base 266 at a location where the extension 268 engages the base 266. The base 266 also defines a second housing interface surface 286. The second housing interface surface 286 is separated from the first housing interface surface 285 by the extension 268. In the embodiment of FIGS. 12 and 13, the second housing interface surface 286 extends co-planar with the first housing interface surface 285. In at least one embodiment, the second housing interface surface 286 is continuous along an entire outer perimeter of the second endplate 246. In other embodiments, the second housing interface surface 286 is semi-continuous (e.g., includes multiple sections that are spaced apart along a circumferential direction).

[0091] Referring to FIG. 14, the second endplate 246 (e.g., the base 266, the support flange 284) engages the filter housing assembly 202 along the first housing interface surface 285 and the second housing interface surface 286 when the filter cartridge 204 is fully installed into the filter housing assembly 202. The first housing interface surface 285 engages the filter endplate support 227. The second housing interface surface 286 engages the endplate interface surface 282.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 15, a filter cartridge 304 is shown that includes a media pack 340 that is embedded or otherwise formed into the first endplate 342 and a second endplate 344 (e.g., into the endplate material) to form a liquid tight seal between the endplates and the media pack 340. The second endplate 344 also includes a centering ring 346 that extends from a base 366 toward the first endplate 342. The centering ring 346 is a cylindrical extension that extending into a central cavity of the media pack 340, which can facilitate sealing between the media pack 340 and the second endplate 344. The centering ring 346 is spaced radially apart from, and is concentric with, a flange that defines an endplate support surface for the second endplate 344. [0093] Referring to FIG. 16, an exploded view of the filter cartridge 304 of FIG. 15 is shown. The filter cartridge 304 includes a support structure that is inserted into a central opening defined by the media pack 340. In the embodiment of FIG. 16, the support structure is a perforated center tube 345 that is configured to provide structural support to the media pack 340 while permitting fluid (e.g., oil) to pass therethrough.

V. Example Method of Installing a Filter Cartridge into a Filter Housing Assembly

[00941 Referring to FIG. 17, a flow diagram of a method 400 of installing a filter cartridge into a filter housing assembly is shown, according to an embodiment. The method 400 may be performed using the filter assembly 100, 200 and components described with reference to FIGS. 1-9 and FIGS. 10-14, respectively. As such, the method 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1-9 and FIGS. 10-14. In other embodiments, the method 400 may include additional, fewer, and/or different operations.

[0095| At operation 402, a filter cartridge is inserted into a shell of a filter housing assembly so that (i) a standpipe of the filter housing assembly extends through the filter cartridge and (ii) a sealing member coupled to an endplate of the filter element (e.g., the third sealing member 152 as described with respect to FIGS. 8 and 9) engages the shell. In at least one embodiment, operation 402 includes aligning the filter cartridge with an opening in a shell of a filter housing assembly. In some embodiments, operation 402 may further include engaging a second endplate opening defined by a second endplate with a distal end of an inner standpipe and an outer standpipe that are spaced apart from a closed end of the shell. Operation 402 may also include pushing the filter cartridge over the inner standpipe and the outer standpipe, so that the outer standpipe extends at least partially through the filter cartridge.

[0096] At operation 404, two additional sealing members (e.g., the first sealing member 148 and the second sealing member 150 as described with respect to FIG. 8) of the filter cartridge are engaged with the filter housing assembly such that fluid flowing therethrough maintains the filter cartridge under compression during operation. In some embodiments, operation 404 includes engaging a radial sealing member, that is coupled to a first endplate of the filter cartridge (e.g., the first sealing member 148 as shown in FIG. 8), with the inner standpipe and engaging another radial sealing member, that is coupled to a second endplate of the filter cartridge (e.g., the second sealing member 150 as shown in FIG. 8), with an outer standpipe of the filter housing assembly. In some embodiments, operation 404 includes pushing a first opening of the first endplate over the inner standpipe.

[O097| It should be appreciated that the order in which the sealing members engage the shell and/or dual standpipe assembly during assembly may be different than described above. For example, in at least one embodiment (and using the nomenclature for each sealing member that was described with respect to FIG. 8), the second sealing member 150 of the second endplate engages the housing assembly (e.g., the outer standpipe) before the third sealing member 152 of the second endplate engages the housing assembly (e.g., the shell), and the third sealing member 152 of the second endplate engages the housing assembly before the first sealing member 148 of the first endplate engages the housing assembly (e.g., the inner standpipe).

|0098] At operation 406, an endplate of the filter cartridge is engaged with a filter endplate support of the filter housing assembly along a first interface surface of the endplate that extends radially away from the first sealing member and toward a central axis of the filter element. In some embodiments, operation 406 includes engaging the endplate with a standpipe flange of the outer standpipe that extends radially away from a conduit of the outer standpipe. In some embodiments, operation 406 includes engaging a planar base portion of the second endplate of the filter cartridge with a plurality of standpipe ribs of the standpipe flange that extend across the standpipe flange, which can prevent bending or other deformation of the second endplate due to radial and axial forces acting on the extension of the second endplate. In other embodiments, operation 406 includes engaging the endplate with an outer shell conduit (e.g., with an axially facing end surface of the outer shell conduit, etc.), or with a combination of the endplate flange and the outer shell conduit.

[00991 It should be noted that the term “example” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

10100] As utilized herein, the term “substantially” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed (e.g., within plus or minus five percent of a given angle or other value) are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.

[0101 ] The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like as used herein mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.

[0102] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the embodiments described herein. [0103] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of any embodiment or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular embodiments. Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations can also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation can also be implemented in multiple implementations separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A filter element comprising: a media pack having a media pack first end and a media pack second end opposite the media pack first end; a first endplate sealingly engaging the media pack first end, the first endplate defining a first endplate opening; a first sealing member coupled to the first endplate at the first endplate opening; a second endplate sealingly engaging the media pack second end, the second endplate comprising: a base defining a second endplate opening; and an extension extending axially away from the base and the media pack; a second sealing member coupled to the second endplate at the second endplate opening; and a third sealing member coupled to the extension, each of the first sealing member, the second sealing member, and the third sealing member being radial sealing members that are configured to press radially against a sealing surface.

2. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the first endplate defines a plurality of protrusions extending from an axially-facing surface of the first endplate and away from the media pack.

3. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the extension is a cylindrical protrusion that extends axially away from the base, an outer diameter of the cylindrical protrusion being less than an outer diameter of the second endplate at a location where the media pack engages the second endplate.

4. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the second endplate further includes a plurality of endplate ribs that extend between the base and the extension.

5. The filter element of claim 4, wherein an inner diameter of at least one of the plurality of endplate ribs is greater than an inner diameter of the second endplate opening.

6. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the base defines: a first housing interface surface facing axially away from the media pack; and a second housing interface surface facing axially away from the media pack, the second housing interface surface separated from the first housing interface surface by the extension.

7. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the media pack defines a central opening, and wherein the first sealing member and the second sealing member are disposed at least partially within the central opening.

8. The filter element of claim 1, wherein the base protrudes radially away from the extension.

9. A filter assembly comprising: a housing assembly comprising: a shell defining an inner cavity; an outer standpipe coupled to the shell and extending into the inner cavity; and an inner standpipe coupled to the shell and extending through the outer standpipe; and a filter element comprising: a first sealing member engageable with the inner standpipe; a second sealing member engageable with the outer standpipe; and a third sealing member engageable with the shell.

10. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the outer standpipe includes: a conduit; and a standpipe flange extending radially away from the conduit, the filter element including an endplate that is engageable with the standpipe flange when the filter element is fully installed into the shell.

11. The filter assembly of claim 10, wherein the standpipe flange defines a plurality of standpipe supports extending axially away from a closed end of the shell, and wherein the endplate is engageable with the plurality of standpipe supports when the filter element is fully installed into the shell.

12. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the filter element includes: an endplate including: a base; a cylindrical protrusion extending axially away from the base; and a plurality of endplate ribs extending between the base and the cylindrical protrusion.

13. The filter assembly of claim 12, wherein the outer standpipe includes: a conduit; and a standpipe flange extending radially away from the conduit, an inner diameter of the plurality of endplate ribs being greater than an outer diameter of the standpipe flange.

14. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the filter element includes an endplate including: a panel defining a first housing interface surface; and an extension extending axially away from the panel and extending along an outer perimeter of the first housing interface surface.

15. The filter assembly of claim 14, wherein the panel engages the housing assembly along the first housing interface surface.

16. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the filter element includes an endplate defining a first housing interface surface and a second housing interface surface, wherein the housing assembly includes a filter endplate support that is engageable with the first housing interface surface, and wherein the shell defines an inner ledge that is engageable with the second housing interface surface.

17. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein the inner standpipe and the outer standpipe together form a standpipe assembly, and wherein the inner standpipe is made from a different material or has a different thickness relative to the outer standpipe along at least a portion of the standpipe assembly.

18. A method of installing a filter element into a filter housing assembly, the method comprising: inserting the filter element into a shell of the filter housing assembly so that (i) a standpipe of the filter housing assembly extends through the filter element and (ii) a first sealing member coupled to an endplate of the filter element engages the shell; and engaging the endplate of the filter element with a filter endplate support of the filter housing assembly along a first housing interface surface of the endplate that extends radially away from the first sealing member and toward a central axis of the filter element.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the standpipe is an inner standpipe of a standpipe assembly that also includes an outer standpipe, and further comprising engaging a second sealing member of the filter element with the inner standpipe, and engaging a third sealing member of the filter element with the outer standpipe of the filter housing assembly.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein engaging the endplate of the filter element with the filter endplate support comprises engaging the endplate with a standpipe flange of the standpipe that extends radially away from a conduit of the standpipe.