CN216741779U - Air filtering assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is an air filter assembly comprising: a cartridge comprising a wall extending along a first axis and a second axis; a filter element, comprising: at least two tubular filter partitions extending along a filter axis, and a plate pack operatively connected to the at least two tubular filter partitions. The plate package extends in relation to an imaginary unfolding plane and comprises a first face comprising at least one sealing profile and a second face comprising at least two abutment profiles on opposite sides of the imaginary unfolding plane. The cartridge is insertable into the cassette along an insertion direction that is substantially parallel to the first or second axis. The cartridge comprises a containment area between the wall and at least two abutment elements. The plate pack is accommodated in the accommodation area with the sealing profiles sealingly engaging the walls and the abutment profiles engaging the respective abutment elements. The sealing profile and/or the abutment profile are shaped or mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary development plane with a vertically or longitudinally variable distance from the imaginary development plane.

Description

Air filter assembly

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an air filter assembly for a vehicle. Furthermore, the utility model relates to an engine air supply system for a vehicle, comprising an air filter assembly for the vehicle.

Background

The background to which the utility model pertains is that of air filter assemblies in the automotive field. In particular, the present invention relates to air filter assemblies adapted to filter air drawn in from the environment to enter the combustion chambers of endothermic engines.

In particular, the purpose of such assemblies is to filter the air in order to remove from the air suspended particles that, when they reach the combustion chamber, may damage the engine (or its components) or cause inefficient combustion.

It is therefore of vital importance that the air filtration is performed efficiently and effectively, which avoids the possibility of ingestion and thus the possibility of dust reaching the combustion chamber.

Known air filter assemblies comprise a specific box and a specific filter cartridge (generally a plate element) housed in said box.

A major problem of the known air filter assemblies lies precisely in the incorrect operation of the filter cartridges thereof, which is generally caused by incorrect positioning into the box.

In particular, in fact in the known solutions of the prior art, the problems related to incorrect positioning of the filter cartridge are typical, the latter engaging the box with an ineffective seal, therefore having a partial suction of air, with consequent ineffective filtration. Moreover, incorrectly performing the operation of inserting the cartridge into the box involves potential damage to the cartridge and/or its sealing profile, again resulting in ineffective air filtration.

In order to overcome this problem, in the prior art, a plurality of embodiments of air filter assemblies are realized in which the filter cartridge and/or the specific part for housing the filter cartridge (for example, a drawer) and/or the housing box of the filter cartridge are subjected to specific movements with the aim of performing correct positioning between the parts.

However, these solutions have been found to be particularly complex and bulky. This makes their use limited, finding no space in the engine compartment of the vehicle or generally taking up installation space for other components potentially necessary for vehicle operation.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

There is therefore a strong need to provide an air filter assembly having a box and a filter cartridge receivable in said box, wherein the filter cartridge has efficient filtering characteristics and at the same time can be inserted into the box in a simple and intuitive manner (but above all correctly), which prevents its possible incorrect positioning and thus any undesired inhalation or destruction. At the same time, the air filter assembly must also have the smallest possible size, while maintaining the filtration efficiency.

It is precisely an object of the present invention to provide an air filter assembly which meets the above-mentioned requirements.

To achieve the above objects, one aspect of the present invention provides an air filter assembly for a vehicle, including:

i) a cartridge comprising a wall extending along a first axis and a second axis, the wall comprising at least one outflow nozzle through which air flows, wherein the cartridge further comprises a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis;

ii) a filter element comprising:

at least two tubular filtration partitions capable of being radially crossed during filtration, each tubular filtration partition extending along a filtration axis;

a plate pack, to which the at least two tubular filter partitions are operatively connected, wherein the plate pack extends with respect to an imaginary development plane and comprises, on opposite sides of the imaginary development plane, a first face comprising at least one sealing profile and a second face comprising at least two abutment profiles, wherein the plate pack comprises at least one outflow opening adapted to put the tubular filter partition in fluid communication with the at least one outflow nozzle;

wherein the cartridge is insertable into the cassette along an insertion direction that is substantially parallel to the first or second axis;

wherein the cassette comprises a receiving region between the wall and at least two abutment elements longitudinally spaced from the wall and axially spaced from each other, wherein the plate pack is received in the receiving region with the at least one sealing profile sealingly engaging the wall and the abutment profiles engaging the respective abutment elements;

wherein the at least one sealing profile and/or the abutment profile are shaped or mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary unfolding plane with a vertically variable distance from the imaginary unfolding plane along the insertion direction, the vertically variable distance being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction;

wherein the at least one sealing profile and/or the abutment profile are shaped or mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary unfolding plane with a longitudinally variable distance from the imaginary unfolding plane along the first axis or the second axis, the longitudinally variable distance being measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis;

wherein the at least two tubular filtration partitions are positioned to define a primary row of extensions along the first axis or the second axis;

wherein two tubular filtering sectors belonging to the same row and close to each other have respective filtering axes which are mutually offset along both the first and the second axis.

In one of the embodiments, each tubular filter sector has a filter diameter, wherein two tubular filter sectors belonging to the same row and close to each other define a projection on the first axis and/or the second axis, which is smaller than the sum of the respective filter diameters.

In one embodiment, the filter cartridge comprises at least one third tubular filter sector belonging to the same row, wherein the filtering axis of the third tubular filter sector is mutually aligned with the filtering axis of one of the two tubular filter sectors, the filtering axis of this one of the two tubular filter sectors being offset along the first or second axis, in particular along an axis intersecting the insertion direction.

In one of the embodiments, the plate pack comprises at least three abutment profiles comprising two end abutment profiles and at least one central abutment profile positioned between the two end abutment profiles and between two adjacent tubular filter partitions, wherein the cassette comprises two end abutment elements and at least one central abutment element.

In one embodiment, the cartridge comprises: a container in which the cartridge is at least partially receivable; and a lid adapted to engage the container to close the container, wherein the central abutment profile comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the central abutment element comprises a container abutment half-element adapted to engage the first portion and a lid abutment half-element adapted to engage the second portion.

In one embodiment, the first portion and the second portion are positioned offset from each other along the first axis or the second axis, in particular along an axis intersecting the insertion direction.

In one embodiment, the plate pack snap engages the cassette.

In one embodiment, the plate pack comprises teeth adapted to snap engage recesses on the cartridge.

In one of the embodiments, the abutment profiles and the abutment elements comprise respective abutment and thrust faces which are mutually slidably engaged during the operation of inserting the filter cartridge into the box, wherein the abutment and thrust faces are shaped, preferably inclined, so that the filter cartridge is pushed and held in position in the longitudinal direction towards the wall.

In one of the embodiments, the abutment profiles and the abutment elements are positioned on different imaginary abutment planes longitudinally spaced from each other, i.e. each at a respective longitudinal distance from the imaginary unfolding plane.

In one embodiment, the plate pack comprises a plurality of outflow openings and comprises respective sealing profiles, each sealing profile extending around a respective outflow opening, the sealing profiles defining a respective sealing area when in engagement with the wall.

In one of the embodiments, the sealing profile and the respective sealing plane comprised in the wall are positioned on different imaginary sealing planes that are longitudinally spaced from each other, i.e. each at a respective longitudinal distance from the imaginary unfolding plane.

In one embodiment, the at least one outflow opening is shaped so as to extend longitudinally between the second face and the first face to fluidly connect the tubular filtration section to the at least one outflow nozzle.

In one embodiment, the at least one sealing profile is one of an elastically yielding element or a detachable element integrated into the plate package.

In addition, to achieve the above object, another aspect of the present invention provides an engine air supply system of a vehicle including an air filter assembly according to the above aspect, wherein the case is fluidly connected to an intake manifold, and air is drawn from an external environment through the air filter assembly.

Drawings

Further characteristics and advantages of the utility model will become apparent from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments thereof, given by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c and 1d show in perspective some disassembly steps of an air filter assembly according to the present invention, according to a preferred embodiment;

figures 2a, 2b and 2c show a container included in an air filter assembly of the present invention in a top view and two perspective views, respectively;

figures 3a and 3b show a cover included in an air filter assembly of the present invention in two perspective views, respectively;

fig. 4a and 4b show, in two perspective views respectively, a filter cartridge included in the air filter assembly of the present invention;

fig. 5a, 5b, 5c and 5d show front, side, top and bottom views of a flat unit comprised in a filter cartridge according to a preferred embodiment;

fig. 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e, 6f, 6g and 6h show longitudinal sections of the air filter assembly in different assembly steps;

FIG. 7 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view taken along the first section taken in FIG. 1 c; and

fig. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view taken along the second section taken in fig. 1 a.

Detailed Description

In the drawings, reference numeral 1 indicates an air filter assembly according to the utility model.

According to the utility model, the air filter assembly 1 is adapted to be part of a vehicle. In particular, the air filter assembly 1 is adapted to be part of an engine air supply system of a vehicle. Preferably, the air filter assembly 1 is connectable to an intake manifold of a vehicle. Preferably, the air filter assembly 1 is fluidly connectable to a combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine of a vehicle by means of said intake manifold.

Preferably, ambient air may pass through the air filter assembly 1 when drawn. Inside the air filter assembly 1, the ambient air is thus separated from the undesired components suspended therein.

As mentioned above, the utility model also relates to an engine air supply system of a vehicle comprising an air filter assembly 1.

According to the utility model, an air filter assembly 1 for a vehicle comprises a box 2 and a filter cartridge 3 housed in said box 2.

Preferably, the box 2 is fluidly connectable on one side to the external environment and on the other side to the intake manifold of the vehicle.

Air filtration takes place inside the box 2.

According to the utility model, the capsule 2 comprises a wall 21. Preferably, said wall 21 comprises at least one outflow mouth 29 through which air can pass. Preferably, the filtered air leaves the cartridge 2 from the outflow mouth 29. Preferably, the outflow nozzle 29 is fluidly connectable to the intake manifold.

According to the utility model, the box 2 extends along a first axis V-V (preferably vertical) and a second axis Y-Y (preferably transverse). According to a preferred embodiment, the first axis V-V is orthogonal to the second axis Y-Y.

Preferably, the wall 21 extends along said first axis V-V and said second axis Y-Y.

According to the utility model, the cartridge 2 also extends along a longitudinal axis X-X. The longitudinal axis X-X intersects the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y. In other words, the longitudinal axis X-X extends from the wall 21. Preferably, the longitudinal axis X-X extends orthogonally with respect to the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y, and therefore preferably, the longitudinal axis X-X is orthogonal to the wall 21.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge 2 has substantially the shape of a parallelepiped. Preferably, the cassette 2 or a specific part thereof has a curved or arched shape.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises a plurality of tubular filter sectors 4 and a plate pack 5, said tubular filter sectors 4 being integrally connected to the plate pack 5.

According to the utility model, the filter insert 3 comprises at least two tubular filter sectors 4 which can be passed preferably radially during the filtration. Preferably, the tubular filter sector 4 is radially traversable from the outside to the inside during the filtration, so as to determine the dirty side of the filter insert 3 outside the tubular filter sector 4 and the clean side of the filter insert 3 therein (preferably in the inner cavity 40 of the tubular filter sector 4).

According to the utility model, each tubular filtering sector 4 extends along a filtering axis F-F substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X.

According to the utility model, the filter cartridge 3 comprises at least two tubular filtering sectors 4, the at least two tubular filtering sectors 4 being positioned so as to define a main row of extensions along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y.

According to the utility model, two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other have respective filtering axes F-F, which are mutually offset along both a first axis V-V and a second axis Y-Y.

According to a preferred embodiment, each tubular filtering sector 4 has a filtering diameter Df, Df1, Df 2. In particular, the filtration diameter refers to the outer diameter of the tubular filtration sector 4.

According to a preferred embodiment, two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other have respective filtering axes F-F offset from each other along both the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y, and define a projection P on the first axis V-V and/or the second axis Y-Y, which is smaller than the sum of the respective filtering diameters.

According to a preferred embodiment, two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other have respective filtering axes F-F offset from each other along both the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y, and define a projection P on the first axis V-V and/or the second axis Y-Y, equal to the sum of the respective filtering diameters.

According to a preferred embodiment, the tubular filter partitions 4 all have substantially the same diameter Df. In other words, the diameter Df1 of the first tubular filtering sub-section is substantially equal to the diameter Df2 of the second tubular filtering sub-section.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises at least two tubular filter sectors 4.

Preferably, the filter cartridge 3 comprises at least three tubular filtering sectors 4.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises a third tubular filtering sector 4 belonging to the same row of two tubular filtering sectors 4, the two tubular filtering sectors 4 being close to each other and having respective filtering axes F-F, which are mutually offset along both the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y.

Preferably, the filtering axis F-F of said third tubular filtering sector 4 is mutually aligned with the filtering axis F-F of one of the two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other. Preferably, the filtering axis F-F of said third tubular filtering sector 4 is aligned along the first axis V-V or the second axis Y-Y, in particular along an axis intersecting the insertion direction Z, with the filtering axis F-F of one of the two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filtering axes F-F of said third tubular filtering sector 4 are mutually offset along both the first axis V-V and the second axis Y-Y with respect to the filtering axes F-F of two tubular filtering sectors 4 belonging to the same row and close to each other.

According to a preferred embodiment, one or more rows of tubular filtering partitions 4 are defined, according to a preferred arrangement of the tubular filtering partitions 4.

According to the present description, the rows extend in a main direction along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y, preferably in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

For example, in the embodiment of the figures, the rows of tubular filtering sectors 4 are defined as extending mainly along the axis Y-Y.

Including at least four preferred embodiments of the tubular filter partition 4.

Including the preferred embodiment in which the tubular filter partition 4 extends through several rows.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises a plurality of rows, wherein each row comprises at least two tubular filtering sectors 4 and extends in a main direction along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y, preferably in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises two rows of tubular filter sectors 4 extending along the same main direction, preferably in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 comprises two rows of tubular filtering sectors 4 extending along different directions.

As mentioned above, according to the utility model, the filter insert 3 furthermore comprises a plate pack 5 to which the tubular filter partition 4 is operatively connected. In particular, the plate pack 5 is adapted to support the tubular filter sectors 4.

The plate package 5 comprises at least one outflow opening 59 adapted to put the tubular filtration section 4, in particular the inner cavity 40 thereof, in fluid communication with at least one outflow nozzle 29.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 comprises at least one flow outlet 59 for each tubular filter partition 4. Preferably, the wall 21 also comprises an outflow mouth 29 at each outflow opening 59.

In other words, according to a preferred embodiment, the outflow openings 59 are ducts extending longitudinally between the second face 52 and the first face 51 of the plate package 5. Preferably, the plate pack 5 comprises a number of ducts equal to the number of tubular filtering sectors 4.

According to an alternative embodiment, the at least one outflow opening 59 has a shape such as to extend longitudinally between the second face 52 and the first face 51 to fluidly connect the tubular filtering partition 4 to the at least one outflow mouth 29. In other words, in such an embodiment, the outflow opening 59 is an internal fluid manifold adapted to connect the tubular filtration partition 4 with at least one outflow mouth 29. Preferably, therefore, the outflow opening 59 has a number of fluid channels on the second face 52 equal to the number of tubular filtering sectors 4, and a plurality of fluid channels on the first face 51 (for example comprising a number of fluid channels on the first face 51 equal to the number of outflow mouths 29 present in the wall 21).

According to the utility model, the plate package 5 extends in relation to an imaginary unfolding plane S.

Preferably, said imaginary unfolding plane S is located on the centre line of the thickness of the plate package 5.

Preferably, the plate pack 5 comprises a flat body 50. According to a preferred embodiment, the flat body 50 is obtained by means of a plastic moulding (for example injection moulding) operation.

According to the utility model, the plate package 5 comprises a first face 51 and a second face 52 on opposite sides of said imaginary unfolding plane S. The first face 51 is also referred to as a sealing face. The second face 52 is also referred to as an abutment or thrust face.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least two tubular filter sectors 4 are operatively connected to the flat bodies 50 of the plate pack 5.

According to a preferred embodiment, at least two tubular filter sectors 4 are integrally connected to the plate pack 5.

Preferably, according to a preferred embodiment, at least two tubular filtering sectors 4 are integrally connected to the second face 52.

According to the utility model, the first face 51 comprises at least one sealing profile 510.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate package 5 comprises a single sealing profile 510, which extends around one or more outflow openings 59 present in the plate package 5, defining a single sealing area by engagement with the wall 21.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 comprises, for each outflow opening 59, a respective sealing profile 510 extending around the respective outflow opening 59. In other words, for example, an embodiment of the filter insert 5 in which the plate pack 5 comprises three outflow openings 59 comprises three sealing profiles 510 defining three sealing zones.

In some embodiments, the plate pack 5 comprises a sealing profile 510 extending around the plurality of outflow openings 59. For example, the sealing profile 510 extends around a plurality of outflow openings 59 which are preferably aligned with one another.

According to a preferred embodiment, each seal profile 510 is an elastically yielding element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the sealing profile 510 is a removable element (for example receivable in a specially shaped seat comprised in the flat body 50). Preferably, as shown in the figures, the sealing profile 510 is a gasket member.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the sealing profile 510 is integrated in the flat body 50. In particular, the sealing profile 510 is a sealing collar or sealing lip which is integrally formed with the flat body 50, for example of the same material as the flat body 50.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the sealing profile 510 is integrated in the flat body by overmoulding.

Preferably, the sealing profile 510 is made of a fibrous material (e.g., a non-woven fabric).

Preferably, the sealing profile 510 acts in an axial direction (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction X-X).

Preferably, in the case of several sealing profiles 510, each sealing profile 510 acts in the axial direction (in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction X-X).

According to the utility model, the second face 52 comprises at least two abutment profiles 520.

Preferably, said abutment profiles 520 are elements projecting orthogonally with respect to the imaginary development plane S, axially positioned and mutually spaced apart. That is, the abutment profiles 520 extend in height orthogonally to the insertion direction (i.e. along the longitudinal direction X-X) and are mutually axially spaced with respect to the first axis V-V or the second axis Y-Y, preferably with respect to the second axis Y-Y (i.e. with respect to an axis orthogonal to the insertion direction Z).

According to the utility model, the abutment profiles 520 are reciprocally spaced with respect to the first axis V-V or with respect to the second axis Y-Y, so that at least one tubular filtering sector 4 is positioned between two consecutive abutment profiles 520 (along the first axis V-V or the second axis Y-Y).

According to a preferred embodiment, the number of abutment profiles 520 is such that the end abutment profiles 523 comprising the axial distal ends and at least one central abutment profile 522 positioned between the two end abutment profiles 523.

Preferably, the central abutment profile 522 is positioned between two proximate tubular filtering sectors 4.

Preferably, the plate pack 5 comprises a central abutment profile 522 between each pair of adjacent tubular filter sectors 4.

In the embodiment comprising three tubular filtering sectors 4, two end abutment profiles 523 and two central abutment profiles 522 are determined, so that the central abutment profiles 522 are positioned between the first and second tubular filtering sectors 4, 4 and the other central abutment profiles 522 are positioned between the second and third tubular filtering sectors 4, 4.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central abutment profile 522 comprises a first portion 5221 and a second portion 5222.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central abutment profile 522 comprises a first portion 5221 and a second portion 5222 spaced from each other along the insertion direction Z.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central abutment profile 522 comprises a first portion 5221 and a second portion 5222, which are separate from each other.

Preferably, the first portion 5221 and the second portion 5222 are separated from each other along the insertion direction Z. Preferably, the first portion 5221 is engaged first and then the second portion 5222 is engaged when the cartridge 3 is inserted into the cassette 2.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first portion 5221 and the second portion 5222 are positioned offset from one another along the first axis V-V or the second axis Y-Y, in particular along an axis perpendicular to the insertion direction Z.

According to the utility model, the filter cartridge 3 can be inserted into the box 2 along an insertion direction Z substantially parallel to the first axis V-V or to the second axis Y-Y.

In other words, the cartridge 3 can be inserted into the box 2 with an insertion operation along a single insertion direction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the insertion direction Z is substantially a first axis V-V corresponding to the vertical, so that the insertion operation also benefits from the effect of gravity.

According to the utility model, the capsule 2 comprises a housing zone 25 between the wall 21 and at least two abutment elements 22, longitudinally spaced from the wall 21 and axially spaced from each other.

The plate pack 5 is accommodated in said accommodation area 25 with at least one sealing profile 510 sealingly engaging the wall 21 and an abutment profile 520 engaging the respective abutment element 22.

Preferably, the number and position of the abutment elements 22 comprised in the packet 2 vary according to the abutment profiles 520 comprised on the plate pack 5.

In other words, in said accommodation region 25, the plate pack 5 can be inserted by an axial insertion operation along the insertion direction Z, such that the plate pack 5 sealingly engages the wall 21 with the first face 51 and such that it is engaged by the abutment element 22 on the second face 52. Preferably, the abutment on the second face 52 involves an axial thrust in the longitudinal direction, which causes the first face 51 to be pushed towards the wall 21 and to be retained on the wall 21 under the thrust action.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge 2 comprises: a container 20 in which the cartridge 3 can be at least partially housed; and a lid 200 adapted to engage and close the container 20.

Preferably, the containment region 25 is closed on one side by the container 20 and on the other side by the lid 200.

According to a preferred embodiment, one or more abutment profiles 520, preferably at least a central abutment profile 522 (or a plurality of central abutment profiles, if present), are engaged by both the container 20 and the lid 200.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first portion 5221 is engaged by the container 20 and the second portion 5222 is engaged by the cap 200.

According to a preferred embodiment, the central abutment element 220 comprises a container abutment half-element 221 adapted to engage the first portion 5221 and a lid abutment half-element 222 adapted to engage the second portion 5222. In other words, the container abutment half 221 is housed on the container 20, while the lid abutment half 222 is housed on the lid 200.

As fully described below, the plate pack 5 (and in particular some of its components) and the complementary receiving region 25 are mutually exclusively shaped both in the longitudinal direction and in a direction parallel to the insertion direction. Thus, in particular, such a coupling allows a single/unique mutual positioning.

According to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, at least one sealing profile 510 is shaped with respect to an imaginary unfolding plane S with variable vertical distances dz1, dz 1' along the insertion direction Z, these distances being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

That is, the seal profile 510 is shaped to have a particular portion at a first vertical distance dz1 from the imaginary plane of development S and other portions at different vertical distances dz 1' from the imaginary plane of development S.

Or according to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, the sealing profiles 510 are mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary development plane S with variable vertical distances dz1, dz 1' along the insertion direction Z, these distances being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

That is, a plurality of sealing profiles 510 are included, each sealing profile 510 being positioned at a certain vertical distance from the imaginary unfolding plane S. Thus, preferably two consecutive sealing profiles 510 are positioned at two different distances from said imaginary unfolding plane S in a direction parallel to the insertion direction Z. Preferably, the lower portion of the lower seal profile 510 or seal profile 510 that first approaches the cassette 2 during the insertion operation is located relative to the upper portion of the upper seal profile 510 or seal profile 510, preferably near the imaginary unfolding plane S.

The wall 21 is specifically complementarily shaped according to what has been described above with respect to the shape and position of the sealing profile 510.

According to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, the abutment profile 520 is shaped with respect to the imaginary development plane S with variable vertical distances dz2, dz 2' along the insertion direction Z, these distances being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z.

That is, the abutment profile 520 is shaped with a certain portion at a first vertical distance dz2 from the imaginary development plane S and other portions at different vertical distances dz2 ', dz2 ", dz 2" ', dz2 "", dz2 "" ' from the imaginary development plane S.

Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment of the utility model, the abutment profiles 520 are mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary development plane S along the insertion direction Z with variable vertical distances dz2 ', dz2 ", dz 2" ', dz2 "", dz2 "" ', these distances being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction Z. In other words, the abutment profile has a "saw-tooth profile".

The abutment element 22 is shaped exclusively complementarily, according to what has been described above with respect to the shape and position of the abutment profile 520.

According to a preferred embodiment, the abutment profiles 520 and the abutment elements 22 comprise respective abutment and thrust surfaces 523 ', 223', 5221 ', 221', 5222 ', 222' which are mutually slidably engaged upon the insertion operation of the cartridge 3 into the box 2.

Preferably, the abutment and thrust faces are shaped so that the filter cartridge 3 is pushed and held in position in the longitudinal direction towards the wall 21.

In other words, according to the utility model, the plate pack 5, taken orthogonally with respect to the development plane S, has elements or element portions close to said development plane S and elements or element portions distant from said development plane S. In other words, according to the utility model, the plate pack 5, taken orthogonally with respect to the development plane S, has, on the first face 51 and/or the second face 52, elements or element portions close to said imaginary development plane S and elements or element portions distant from said imaginary development plane S.

According to the utility model, the plate pack 5 has a shape such as to taper in a first region which, during the insertion operation, enters the receiving region 25. According to a preferred embodiment, the plate package has a shape such that it tapers at the bottom.

According to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, at least one sealing profile 510 is shaped with respect to an imaginary development plane S along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y, preferably along an axis orthogonal to the insertion direction Z, with variable longitudinal distances dx1, dx 1', measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X.

That is, the seal profile 510 is shaped to have a particular portion at a first longitudinal distance dx1 from the imaginary deployment plane S and other portions at different longitudinal distances dx 1' from the imaginary deployment plane S.

Or according to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, the sealing profiles 510 are reciprocally positioned with respect to the imaginary development plane S along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y, preferably along an axis orthogonal to the insertion direction Z, with variable longitudinal distances dx1, dx 1', measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X.

That is, a plurality of sealing profiles 510 are included, each sealing profile 510 being positioned a particular longitudinal distance from the imaginary unfolding plane S. Thus, preferably two mutually consecutive sealing profiles 510 are positioned at two different longitudinal distances from the imaginary unfolding plane S.

According to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, the abutment profile 520 is shaped with respect to the imaginary development plane S along a first axis V-V or a second axis Y-Y, preferably along an axis orthogonal to the insertion direction Z, with variable longitudinal distances dx21 ', dx21 ", dx221 ', dx222 ', dx 221", dx222 ", dx 221" ', dx222 "', these distances being measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X.

That is, the abutment profile 520 is shaped to have a certain portion at a first longitudinal distance from the imaginary development plane S and other portions at different longitudinal distances from the imaginary development plane S.

Or according to a preferred embodiment, according to the utility model, the abutment profiles 520 are mutually positioned along the first axis V-V or the second axis Y-Y, preferably along an axis orthogonal to the insertion direction Z, with variable longitudinal distances dx21 ', dx21 ", dx 221', dx222 ', dx 221", dx222 ", dx221, dx 222"', measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis X-X, with respect to the imaginary development plane S.

That is, a plurality of abutment profiles 520 are comprised, each abutment profile 520 being positioned at a certain longitudinal distance from the imaginary unfolding plane S. Thus, preferably, two mutually consecutive abutment profiles 520 along the insertion axis Z are positioned at two different longitudinal distances from the imaginary development plane S.

In other words, according to the utility model, the plate package 5, taken along the development plane S, has elements or element parts that are longitudinally close to said plane, and elements or element parts that are longitudinally distant from said plane. In other words, according to the utility model, the plate pack 5, taken orthogonally with respect to the development plane S, orthogonally to the insertion direction, has elements or element portions on the first face 51 and/or the second face 52 which are longitudinally close to said imaginary development plane S and elements or element portions which are longitudinally distant from said imaginary development plane S.

According to the utility model, the shape of the plate package 5 has a variable cross-section with a preferably tapering tendency in a preferred axial direction. Alternatively, again according to the utility model, the shape of the plate pack 5 has a variable cross-section (concave or convex in the centre).

As mentioned above, the capsule 2 (the housing zone 25 thereof), in particular the wall 21 and the abutment element 22, are specially shaped so as to be engaged by the sealing profile 510 and the abutment profile 520.

For example, in an embodiment, in the case of a cartridge 3 comprising a plurality of sealing profiles 510, the wall 21 is specially shaped so as to comprise a sealing face 210 adapted to be engaged by said sealing profiles 510.

For example, according to a preferred embodiment, the wall 21 comprises a plurality of sealing planes 210, which are positioned on different imaginary sealing planes T1, T2, which, in the case of housing the cartridge 3, in turn have a variable longitudinal distance and a variable (or respectively different) vertical distance in relation to the imaginary development plane S in a direction parallel to the insertion direction Z.

Or again, by way of example, according to a preferred embodiment, the abutment elements 22 are located on different imaginary abutment planes R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, which in turn have a variable longitudinal distance and a variable (or respectively different) vertical distance with respect to the imaginary development plane S, in the case of a cartridge 3 accommodated in the box 2 and therefore a plate pack 5 accommodated in the accommodation region 25.

In other words, according to the utility model, the plate pack 5 viewed from the side has a variable shape along the vertical axis, and the plate pack 5 viewed from above has a variable shape along the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, at least one of the first face 51 and the second face 52 has said variable trend along the vertical axis and at least one of the first face 51 and the second face 52 has said variable trend along the longitudinal axis.

According to a preferred embodiment, the lid 200 can be mounted on the container 20 parallel to the insertion direction Z.

According to a further preferred embodiment, the lid 200 is rotatably mounted on the container 20.

According to a preferred embodiment, the lid 200 may be fixed to the container 20 by means of screw or clip means.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cover 200 is adapted to engage the filter cartridge 3 in a direction parallel to the insertion direction Z.

Preferably, the cover 200 is adapted to engage the plate pack 5 in a direction parallel to the insertion direction.

In other words, the cap 200 is preferably adapted to act as an axial abutment in the insertion direction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the cartridge 2 comprises at least one inflow mouth 28. Preferably, the at least one inflow mouth 28 is longitudinally spaced from the at least one outflow mouth 29.

According to a preferred embodiment, the filter cartridge 3 further comprises an auxiliary plate group 6. Preferably, the auxiliary plate pack 6 is longitudinally opposite the plate pack 5. Preferably, the tubular filter partition 4 is integrally connected to the auxiliary plate pack 6.

Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the end abutment profiles are longitudinally more distant from the imaginary unfolding plane S with respect to the at least one central abutment profile.

Or again, according to a preferred embodiment, the end abutment profiles are mutually at different longitudinal distances from the imaginary development plane S.

Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the end abutment profiles are at different longitudinal distances from each other, but at the same time also with respect to at least one central abutment profile.

It should be noted that, with respect to the above-described embodiments, hybrid embodiments are also included, keeping in line with the above-described principles of the utility model, having one solution of the sealing profile and another solution of the arrangement of the abutment profile.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 is snap-engaged with the cassette 2.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 is snap-engaged with the container 20.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 comprises teeth 57, the teeth 57 being adapted to snap engage recesses 27 on the cassette 2. Preferably, the teeth 57 are flexible elements in a transverse direction with respect to the insertion direction Z.

According to an alternative embodiment, the plate pack 5 comprises a plurality of teeth 57, the plurality of teeth 57 being adapted to snap-engage the cartridge 2, for example by being received in a specific recess.

Preferably, the teeth are shaped exclusively on the abutment profile.

According to a preferred embodiment, the plate pack 5 comprises elastically yielding teeth adapted to engage an external abutment element, preferably in a special snap accommodation. Preferably, the snap-engagement occurs at the end of the insertion of the cartridge 3 into the box 2 in the insertion direction. Preferably, the filter cartridge is extracted from the cartridge 2 by performing a pulling action against the elastic action of said elastically yielding tooth.

Preferably, the elastically yielding tooth acts in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X-X.

According to the utility model, further embodiments are possible, as described above, for example in the preferred embodiment the plate package 5 is made up of a number of different parts assembled to each other. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the plate package comprises: a first component to which the tubular filter partition is operatively connected and which comprises at least one sealing profile; and a second component mountable to the first component, including the abutment profile.

According to a preferred embodiment, the box 2 further comprises a support element adapted to support the set of auxiliary plates 6.

Innovatively, and as noted above, the air filter assembly and the engine air supply system of a vehicle incorporating the air filter assembly broadly achieve the objects of the present invention and overcome the problems typical of the prior art.

Advantageously, the air filter assembly efficiently utilizes the available space in the vehicle interior, particularly in the engine compartment, so as to be of compact size and have a sufficient filter surface.

Advantageously, the offset positioning between the tubular filtering sectors belonging to the same row allows to optimize the space in the filtering chamber.

Advantageously, the offset positioning between the tubular filtering sectors belonging to the same row allows to increase the flexibility of the sizing available for the filtering assembly, for example by increasing the space available for positioning against the profile and therefore increasing the uniformity of distribution of the thrust exerted on the plate pack of the filtering cartridges.

Advantageously, the filter cartridge can be mounted inside the box by means of a guiding/positioning system that can be performed and manipulated in small spaces, for example with vertical insertion or lateral insertion.

Advantageously, the positioning and guide system is very compact, thus allowing an improved utilization of the internal space of the cartridge, an increase in the available filtering surface and a reduction in the pressure drop imposed on the suction circuit by the filter cartridge.

Advantageously, the air filter assembly ensures a simple and intuitive assembly and a simple and intuitive disassembly. Advantageously, the assembly and disassembly operations of the air filter assembly are guided and extremely simple.

Advantageously, the cartridge can be inserted into the box according to a single insertion direction, which facilitates the maintenance process.

Advantageously, the filter insert (but in particular the plate pack thereof) can be inserted into the box (in particular in the receiving region) in a guided manner, in order to avoid damage or wear of the sealing profile, which minimizes its friction with the wall and undesired sliding.

Advantageously, the maintenance operation is guided and overcomes the possibility of undesired damage occurring in its execution.

Advantageously, the positioning of the filter cartridge ensures a safe and precise positioning of the sealing profile, thus ensuring a stable, reliable sealing coupling against vibrations and shocks.

Advantageously, the thrust action to which the sealing profile (or profiles) is/are subjected against the wall is obtained by means of the longitudinal and transverse members, so as to distribute the thrust action evenly over the plate pack.

Advantageously, the abutment element and the abutment profile interact in order to facilitate the engagement of the sealing profile (or profiles). Advantageously, the abutment element and the abutment profile are specially structured to exert a uniform thrust/compression of the sealing profile (or profiles). Preferably, the abutment elements and the abutment profiles also advantageously perform an effective thrust action in the central region of the plate package.

Advantageously, the abutment element and the abutment profile interact so as to ensure a sufficient fastening of the sealing profile (or profiles) along the entire length of the plate pack, even in the case of filter cartridges having a plurality of tubular partitions organized in several rows and therefore having a greater size and weight than in the case of filter cartridges having two tubular filtering partitions.

Advantageously, the filter cartridge stably maintains the watertight coupling by exploiting the limited tolerance chain involved, which optimizes the number of components required and, consequently, the production costs associated with the filter cartridge.

Advantageously, the filter cartridge is automatically targeted by means of a specific shape of the plate pack, which facilitates its correct insertion inside the box and provides an immediate visual recognition system for the operator.

Advantageously, in order to function effectively, the air filter assembly needs to be specially shaped as an original filter cartridge that operates with the cassette, thus also addressing the problem of non-original filter cartridges.

Advantageously, the rigid connection obtained between the filter cartridge and the box, in particular between the plate pack and the housing area, allows a safe and secure coupling, and a safe and secure seal between the parts. Advantageously, the cassettes inside the vehicle can be positioned in any relative position without affecting the filtering method.

Obviously, to satisfy contingent needs, a person skilled in the art may make modifications to the air filter assembly described above, all of which are included within the scope of protection defined by the following claims.

List of reference numerals:

1 air filter assembly

2 case

20 container

21 wall

210 sealing plane

200 cover

22 abutting element

220 center abutting element

221 container abutment half-element

222 cover against the half-element

223 end abutment element

25 receiving area

27 teeth accommodating recess

28 inflow nozzle

29 flow-out nozzle

3 Filter element

4 tubular filtration sector

40 inner cavity

5 plate group

50 unit body

51 first, sealing surface

510 sealing profile

52 second, abutment surface

520 abutting profile

522 center abutment profile

5221 first part

5222 the second part

523 end abutment profile

523 ', 223', 5221 ', 221', 5222 ', 222' abut and thrust face

57 tooth

59 outflow opening

6 auxiliary plate group

X-X longitudinal axis

V-V first axis, vertical axis

Second axis Y-Y, transverse axis

F-F filtration axis

Z direction of insertion

S imaginary unfolding plane

Imaginary sealing planes of T1 and T2

Imaginary abutting planes of R1, R2, R3, R4 and R5

dx1, dx1 ', dx 21', dx21 ", dx221 ', dx 222', dx 221", dx222 ", dx 221" ', dx222 "' variable longitudinal distances

dz1, dz1 ', dz2, dz 2', dz2 ', dz 2', dz2 ', dz 2' variable vertical distances

Df. Df1, Df2 filtration diameter

P projection

Claims (15)

1. An air filter assembly (1), comprising:

i) a cartridge (2) comprising a wall (21) extending along a first axis (V-V) and a second axis (Y-Y), said wall (21) comprising at least one outflow mouth (29) through which air flows, wherein said cartridge (2) further comprises a longitudinal axis (X-X) intersecting said first axis (V-V) and said second axis (Y-Y);

ii) a filter cartridge (3) comprising:

at least two tubular filtering sectors (4) which can be radially crossed during filtering, each tubular filtering sector (4) extending along a filtering axis (F-F);

-a plate pack (5), said at least two tubular filtering sectors (4) being operatively connected to said plate pack (5), wherein said plate pack (5) extends with respect to an imaginary unfolding plane (S) and comprises, on opposite sides of said imaginary unfolding plane (S), a first face (51) and a second face (52), said first face (51) comprising at least one sealing profile (510) and said second face (52) comprising at least two abutment profiles (520), wherein said plate pack (5) comprises at least one outflow opening (59), said at least one outflow opening (59) being adapted to put said tubular filtering sectors (4) in fluid communication with said at least one outflow nozzle (29);

wherein the cartridge (3) is insertable in the box (2) along an insertion direction (Z) substantially parallel to the first axis (V-V) or to the second axis (Y-Y);

wherein the cassette (2) comprises a receiving area (25) between the wall (21) and at least two abutment elements (22), the at least two abutment elements (22) being longitudinally spaced from the wall (21) and axially spaced from each other, wherein the plate pack (5) is received in the receiving area (25), wherein the at least one sealing profile (510) is sealingly engaged with the wall (21) and the abutment profiles (520) are engaged with the respective abutment elements (22);

wherein the at least one sealing profile (510) and/or the abutment profile (520) are shaped or mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary unfolding plane (S) with a vertically variable distance (dz1, dz1 ', dz2, dz 2', dz2 ", dz 2" ', dz2 "", dz2 "") from the imaginary unfolding plane (S) along the insertion direction (Z), the vertically variable distance (dz1, dz 1', dz2, dz2 ', dz2 ", dz 2"', dz2 "", dz2 "") being measured in a direction orthogonal to the insertion direction (Z);

wherein the at least one sealing profile (510) and/or the abutment profile (520) are shaped or mutually positioned with respect to the imaginary deployment plane (S) with a longitudinally variable distance (dx1, dx1 ', dx 21', dx21 ", dx221 ', dx 222', dx 221", dx222 ", dx 221" ', dx222 "') from the imaginary deployment plane (S) along the first axis (V-V) or the second axis (Y-Y), the longitudinally variable distance (dx1, dx1 ', dx 21', dx 21", dx221 ', dx 222', dx221 ", dx 222" '), dx221 "') being measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (X-X);

wherein said at least two tubular filtering sectors (4) are positioned so as to define a main row of extensions along said first axis (V-V) or said second axis (Y-Y);

wherein two tubular filtering sectors (4) belonging to the same row and close to each other have respective filtering axes (F-F) mutually offset along both the first axis (V-V) and the second axis (Y-Y).

2. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein each tubular filter sector (4) has a filter diameter (Df, Df1, Df2), wherein two tubular filter sectors (4) belonging to the same row and close to each other define a projection (P) on the first axis (V-V) and/or on the second axis (Y-Y), which projection (P) is smaller than the sum of the respective filter diameters.

3. The air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the filter cartridge (3) comprises at least one third tubular filter sector (4) belonging to the same row, wherein the filtering axis (F-F) of the third tubular filter sector (4) and the filtering axis (F-F) of one of the two tubular filter sectors are mutually aligned, the filtering axis (F-F) of this one of the two tubular filter sectors being offset along the first axis (V-V) or the second axis (Y-Y), in particular along an axis intersecting the insertion direction (Z).

4. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the plate pack (5) comprises at least three abutment profiles (520), the at least three abutment profiles (520) comprising two end abutment profiles (523) and at least one central abutment profile (522) positioned between the two end abutment profiles (523) and between two proximate tubular filter sectors (4), wherein the cassette (2) comprises two end abutment elements (221) and at least one central abutment element (220).

5. An air filter assembly (1) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the cartridge (2) comprises: a container (20), in which the cartridge (3) can be at least partially housed; and a lid (200) adapted to engage the container (20) to close the container (20), wherein the central abutment profile (522) comprises a first portion (5221) and a second portion (5222), wherein the central abutment element (220) comprises a container abutment half-element (221) adapted to engage the first portion (5221) and a lid abutment half-element (222) adapted to engage the second portion (5222).

6. The air filter assembly (1) according to claim 5, wherein said first portion (5221) and said second portion (5222) are positioned mutually offset along said first axis (V-V) or said second axis (Y-Y), in particular along an axis intersecting said insertion direction (Z).

7. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the plate pack (5) is snap-engaged with the cassette (2).

8. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein the plate pack (5) comprises teeth (57), the teeth (57) being adapted to snap engage recesses on the cartridge (2).

9. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein said abutment profile (520) and said abutment element (22) comprise respective abutment and thrust faces (523 ', 223', 5221 ', 221', 5222 ', 222'), said abutment and thrust faces (523 ', 223', 5221 ', 221', 5222 ', 222') being mutually slidably engaged during the operation of inserting the filter cartridge (3) into the box (2), wherein said abutment and thrust faces (523 ', 223', 5221 ', 221', 5222 ', 222') are shaped, preferably inclined, so that the filter cartridge (3) is pushed in the longitudinal direction towards the wall (21) and is held in position.

10. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein said abutment profiles (520) and said abutment elements (22) are positioned on different imaginary abutment planes (R1, R2, R3, R4, R5) longitudinally spaced from each other, i.e. each at a respective longitudinal distance (dx21 ', dx21 ", dx221 ', dx222 ', dx 221" ', dx222 "') from said imaginary development plane (S).

11. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the plate pack (5) comprises a plurality of outflow openings (59) and comprises respective sealing profiles (510), each sealing profile extending around a respective outflow opening (59), the sealing profiles (510) defining respective sealing areas when in engagement with the wall (21).

12. An air filter assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein the sealing profile (510) and the respective sealing plane (210) comprised in the wall (21) are positioned on different imaginary sealing planes (T1, T2) longitudinally spaced from each other, i.e. each at a respective longitudinal distance (dx1, dx 1') from the imaginary development plane (S).

13. The air filter assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein said at least one outflow opening (59) is shaped so as to extend longitudinally between said second face (52) and said first face (51) to fluidly connect said tubular filtering sector (4) to said at least one outflow mouth (29).

14. An air filter assembly (1) according to any of claims 1-12, wherein the at least one sealing profile (510) is one of an elastically yielding element or a detachable element integrated into the plate pack.

15. An engine air supply system of a vehicle, characterized by comprising an air filter assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the box (2) is fluidly connected to an intake manifold and air is drawn from the external environment through the air filter assembly (1).

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