CN216909453U

CN216909453U - Flow conditioner assembly and fluid filtration system

Info

Publication number: CN216909453U
Application number: CN202122082595.8U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 查塔丽·卡利达斯·阿盖尔; 阿维纳什·阿亚雷卡尔; 纳伦德拉·库马尔·特里帕蒂
Original assignee: Cummins Filtration SARL
Current assignee: Cummins Filtration SARL
Priority date: 2021-07-14
Filing date: 2021-08-31
Publication date: 2022-07-08
Anticipated expiration: 2031-08-31

Abstract

The present application relates to flow conditioner assemblies and fluid filtration systems. A flow conditioner conduit includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion in fluid receiving communication with a filter housing, a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion coupled to and in fluid receiving communication with the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion, and a flow conditioner positioned within the flow conditioner conduit and configured to straighten fluid flow therethrough. The flow conditioner includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall coupled to the flow conditioner duct outlet portion, a plurality of first cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, and a plurality of second cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the plurality of second cross members coupled to and cooperating with the plurality of first cross members to define a plurality of apertures that facilitate fluid flow through the flow conditioner.

Description

Flow conditioner assembly and fluid filtration system

Technical Field

The present application relates generally to the field of fluid flow filtration systems.

Background

Typically, filtration systems are used to filter fluids (such as fuel, air, oil, etc.) by removing impurities (such as dust, dirt, debris, etc.) before providing the fluids to other systems (such as internal combustion engines). The filtration system has a housing that houses a filter element with filter media. In operation, the filtration system receives fluid through the inlet and directs the fluid to the filter element arrangement to remove impurities from the fluid. The filtration system then directs the filtered fluid to an outlet so that the fluid is provided to other systems (such as an internal combustion engine). A sensor may be located in the path of fluid flow between the outlet of the filtration system and other systems to measure a property of the fluid. However, due to potential turbulence of the fluid, the measured values of the properties of the fluid may vary and be inconsistent.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

One embodiment relates to a flow conditioner assembly. The flow conditioner assembly includes a flow conditioner conduit. The flow regulator conduit (conduit) includes a flow regulator conduit inlet portion in fluid receiving communication with the filter housing, a flow regulator conduit outlet portion coupled to and in fluid receiving communication with the flow regulator conduit inlet portion, and a flow regulator positioned within the flow regulator conduit and configured to straighten the flow of the fluid as the fluid flows therethrough. The flow conditioner includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall coupled to the flow conditioner duct outlet portion, a plurality of first cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, and a plurality of second cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the plurality of second cross members coupled to and cooperating with at least two of the plurality of first cross members to define a plurality of apertures, each of the plurality of apertures facilitating flow of the fluid through the flow conditioner.

Another embodiment relates to a fluid filtration system. The fluid filtration system includes a filter housing. The filter housing includes a housing body, a filtration system inlet, and a filtration system outlet. The fluid filtration system includes a filter element disposed within a filter housing and a flow conditioner assembly in the fluid configured to receive filtered fluid from the filter assembly. The flow conditioner assembly includes a flow conditioner conduit. The flow conditioner conduit includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion in fluid receiving communication with the filter housing, a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion coupled to and in fluid receiving communication with the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion, and a flow conditioner positioned within the flow conditioner conduit and configured to straighten fluid flow as fluid passes therethrough. The flow conditioner includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall coupled to the flow conditioner duct outlet portion, a plurality of first cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, and a plurality of second cross members coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall and extending across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the plurality of second cross members coupled to and cooperating with at least two of the plurality of first cross members to define a plurality of apertures, each of the plurality of apertures facilitating flow of the fluid through the flow conditioner.

Aspects of the utility model can be implemented in one or more of the following embodiments.

1) A flow conditioner assembly comprising:

a flow conditioner conduit, comprising:

a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion in fluid receiving communication with the filter housing,

a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion coupled to and in fluid receiving communication with the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion; and

a flow conditioner located within the flow conditioner conduit and configured to straighten the flow of fluid as it flows therethrough, the flow conditioner comprising:

a flow conditioner outer annular wall coupled to the flow conditioner duct outlet portion,

a first plurality of cross-members coupled to and extending laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, an

A plurality of second cross members coupled to and extending across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the plurality of second cross members coupled to and cooperating with the plurality of first cross members to define a plurality of apertures that facilitate flow of the fluid through the flow conditioner.

2) The flow conditioner assembly according to 1), wherein the flow conditioner conduit further comprises:

a sensor housing coupled to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion downstream of the flow conditioner to house a sensor for measuring a property of the fluid; and

a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture formed in the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion downstream of the flow conditioner and surrounded by the sensor housing, the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture enabling the sensor to extend from the sensor housing into the flow of the fluid.

3) The flow conditioner assembly according to 1) or 2), wherein the flow conditioner pipe inlet portion is connected to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion, thereby forming an elbow.

4. The flow conditioner assembly according to 1), wherein:

the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a ridge formed thereon that extends in an axial direction downstream of the flow conditioner; and is

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes a groove that engages the ridge to facilitate coupling of the flow conditioner with the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion.

5) The flow conditioner assembly according to 4), wherein:

the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion includes a plurality of locking members located upstream of the flow conditioner and disposed along a circumference of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion; and is

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes a plurality of locking arms disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner outer annular wall, each of the plurality of locking arms including a locking arm aperture that receives one of the plurality of locking members, each of the plurality of locking arms cooperating with one of the plurality of locking members to retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

6) The flow conditioner assembly according to 4), wherein:

the flow conditioner outer annular wall includes at least one tongue disposed about the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the at least one tongue extending axially and laterally from the flow conditioner outer annular wall to form an L-shape; and is

The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes at least one rotational groove coupled to and extending radially from the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, the at least one rotational groove receiving the at least one tongue, the at least one rotational groove cooperating with the at least one tongue to retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

7) The flow conditioner assembly according to 4), wherein:

the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion includes at least one locking stud extending from the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion; and is

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes a flow conditioner locking flange that receives the at least one locking stud within a locking flange aperture that cooperates with the at least one locking stud to retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner pipe.

8) The flow conditioner assembly as recited in any one of claims 4) -7), wherein the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a plurality of fasteners disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, the plurality of fasteners retaining the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

9) The flow conditioner assembly of 2), wherein the sensor housing includes a sensor within the sensor housing that extends through the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture into the downstream flow of the fluid and measures a property of the fluid.

10) The flow conditioner assembly according to any one of 1) -2), 4) -7), and 9), wherein the flow conditioner is welded to the flow conditioner pipe.

11) A fluid filtration system comprising:

a filter housing, comprising:

a housing main body;

a filtration system inlet, and

an outlet of the filtration system;

a filter element disposed within the filter housing, an

A flow conditioner assembly coupled to the filtration system outlet and configured to receive filtered fluid from the filtration system outlet, the flow conditioner assembly comprising:

a flow conditioner conduit, comprising:

a flow conditioner located within the flow conditioner conduit and configured to straighten the flow of fluid as the fluid passes therethrough, the flow conditioner comprising:

A plurality of second cross members coupled to and extending across the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the plurality of second cross members coupled to and cooperating with at least two of the plurality of first cross members to form a plurality of apertures that facilitate flow of the fluid through the flow conditioner.

12) The fluid filtration system of 11), wherein the flow conditioner conduit comprises:

13) The fluid filtration system of 11) or 12), wherein the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion is connected to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, thereby forming an elbow.

14) The fluid filtration system of 13), wherein:

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes a groove that engages the ridge and facilitates coupling of the flow conditioner with the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion.

15) The fluid filtration system of 14), wherein:

16) The fluid filtration system of 14), wherein:

the flow conditioner outer annular wall includes at least one tongue disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the at least one tongue extending axially and laterally from the flow conditioner outer annular wall to form an L-shape; and is

17) The fluid filtration system of 14), wherein:

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes at least one locking flange that receives the at least one locking stud within a locking flange aperture that cooperates with the at least one locking stud to retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

18) The fluid filtration system of any one of claims 14) -17), wherein the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a plurality of fasteners disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, the plurality of fasteners retaining the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

19) The fluid filtration system of claim 12), wherein the sensor housing comprises:

a sensor within the sensor housing, the sensor extending through the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture into the downstream flow of the fluid and measuring a property of the fluid.

20) The fluid filtration system of any one of 11) -12), 14) -17), and 19), wherein the flow conditioner is welded to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion.

Drawings

The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fluid filtration system according to one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the fluid filtration system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a flow conditioner assembly;

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional top view of a flow conditioner assembly according to another embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged cross-sectional top view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional side view of a flow conditioner assembly according to another embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 10 according to one embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a flow conditioner assembly according to another embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a flow conditioner assembly;

FIG. 14 is an enlarged perspective front view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a flow conditioner assembly;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the flow conditioner assembly; and

FIG. 18 shows an enlarged side view of the flow conditioner assembly of FIG. 17.

It will be appreciated that some or all of the figures are schematic illustrations for purposes of illustration. The accompanying drawings are provided for the purpose of illustrating one or more embodiments and are to be clearly understood as not being limiting the scope or meaning of the claims.

Detailed Description

Following is a more detailed description of various concepts related to and embodiments of mounting configurations for flow conditioners configured to straighten fluid flow within a fluid filter assembly and system. The various concepts introduced above and discussed in detail below may be implemented in any of numerous ways, as the described concepts are not limited to any particular implementation. Examples of specific embodiments and applications are provided primarily for illustrative purposes.

Various conventional fluid filter assemblies and systems are not typically configured to accommodate a flow conditioner. Generally, the fluid filter assembly and/or system may receive fluid through an inlet. The fluid filter assembly and/or system may filter fluid through a filter media disposed within the housing. The fluid then flows downstream toward the outlet. Where the fluid filter assembly and/or system includes a sensor, the fluid may flow through or past the sensor, thereby measuring a property of the fluid. However, as the fluid flows downstream, the fluid may have turbulence that may negatively affect the measurements obtained by the sensors. In particular, turbulence can lead to large variations in the measured values.

As described herein, according to various embodiments, a flow conditioner assembly is coupled to an outlet of a fluid filtration system and configured to receive filtered fluid from the fluid filtration system. The flow conditioner assembly includes a flow conditioner conduit and a flow conditioner coupled to the flow conditioner conduit. The flow conditioner includes various configurations that facilitate coupling to the flow conditioner conduit. The flow conditioner includes a plurality of first cross members and a plurality of second cross members defining a plurality of apertures through which fluid flows. The plurality of first cross members and the plurality of second cross members interrupt a flow path of the fluid and straighten the fluid as the fluid flows through the plurality of apertures.

According to various embodiments, the flow conditioners described herein may provide one or more benefits, including, for example: (1) achieving laminar flow near the outlet prior to the sensor measuring the properties of the fluid, (2) reducing variations in measured values of fluid flow rate and/or pressure readings, mass flow readings, or other fluid property readings near the outlet, (3) allowing integration with existing filtration system outlets, (4) providing a low cost mesh at the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion, thereby reducing costs, and (5) providing a groove and ridge arrangement to facilitate installation and ensure alignment of the flow conditioner.

Referring to fig. 1-2, a fluid filtration system 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The fluid filtration system 100 includes a filter housing 102, the filter housing 102 defining a central compartment (component) therein. The filter housing 102 has a housing body 103, the housing body 103 comprising a fluid inlet 104 and a fluid outlet 106. In the embodiment of fig. 1-2, the fluid inlet 104 is a radial fluid inlet and the fluid outlet 106 is an axial fluid outlet. The fluid inlet 104 and the fluid outlet 106 are located near a first end of the filter housing 102. In other embodiments, the fluid inlet 104 is located near a first end of the filter housing 102 and the fluid outlet 106 is located near a second end of the housing. The second end of the filter housing 102 is opposite the first end of the filter housing 102. In other embodiments, the fluid inlet 104 is located near the second end of the housing and the fluid outlet 106 is located near the first end of the housing. In other embodiments, the fluid inlet 104 and the fluid outlet 106 are positioned such that they are opposite each other. The fluid inlet 104 is configured to receive a fluid (e.g., air, water, fuel, etc.).

The filter housing 102 includes a cover 108. The cover 108 is removably coupled to the second end of the filter housing 102. Cover 108 includes an ejection port 110. The injection port 110 receives contaminants separated from the fluid. The fluid filtration system 100 includes a filter element 112. The filter element 112 is located within a central compartment of the filter housing 102. The filter element 112 includes filter media that is a pleated-media filter. The filter media includes a first permeable facing sheet of flat filter media (first permeable facing sheet) disposed on a first side of the corrugated sheet for defining with the first side of the corrugated sheet a first plurality of axial fluid flow channels. The filter media includes a second permeable facing sheet of filter media disposed on a second side of the corrugated sheet for defining, with the second side of the corrugated sheet, a second plurality of axial fluid flow channels. The axial fluid flow channels formed extend from a first face of the filter media (e.g., an inlet face of filter element 112) to a second face of the filter media (e.g., an outlet face of filter element 112). Each of the plurality of axial fluid flow channels is alternately sealed at the first face or at the second face of the filter media such that fluid flowing into a first axial fluid flow channel must pass through the filter media to an adjacent second axial fluid flow channel to exit the filter media. In other embodiments, the filter element 112 may comprise a wound filter media (wrap filter media) and may be arranged for axial flow filtration.

In other embodiments, the filter element 112 comprises filter media having tetrahedrally shaped features and flat media rolled or layered to form the filter element 112. In such an embodiment, the filter element 112 includes an upstream inlet and a downstream outlet. The filter media is pleated along a plurality of bend lines. The bend lines extend axially along an axial direction and include a first set of bend lines extending axially from the upstream inlet toward the downstream outlet, and a second set of bend lines extending axially from the downstream outlet toward the upstream inlet. The filter element 112 includes a plurality of wall segments (wall segments) extending in a serpentine manner between bend lines. The wall segments extend axially and define axial passageways therebetween. The channels have a height along a transverse direction (transverse direction) perpendicular to the axial direction. The channel has a lateral width along a lateral direction (lateral direction) perpendicular to the axial direction and perpendicular to the transverse direction. At least some of the bend lines taper in the transverse direction as they extend axially in the axial direction. The wall segments extend in a serpentine manner and define a laterally extending serpentine span (serpentine span) having a first wall segment laterally adjacent to a second wall segment and joined to the second wall segment by a first bend line, and continuing in a serpentine manner along the serpentine span to a third wall segment laterally adjacent to the second wall segment and joined to the second wall segment by a second bend line, and so on along the serpentine span. The serpentine span extends in the lateral direction such that a taper of the bend line that tapers in the transverse direction is perpendicular to the serpentine span in the lateral direction. The wall segments include a first set of wall segments alternately sealed to one another at the upstream entrance to define a first set of passageways having open upstream ends and a second set of passageways intersecting the first set of passageways and having closed upstream ends. The wall segments include a second set of wall segments alternately sealed to each other at the downstream outlet to define a third set of passages having closed downstream ends and a fourth set of passages intersecting the third set of passages and having open downstream ends. The first set of bend lines includes a first subset of bend lines defining the first set of channels and a second subset of bend lines defining the second set of channels. The second subset of bend lines taper in the transverse direction as they extend axially from the upstream inlet toward the downstream outlet. The second set of bend lines includes a third subset of bend lines defining a third set of channels. A fourth subset of the bend lines defines a fourth set of channels. The fourth subset of bend lines tapers in the transverse direction as they extend axially from the downstream outlet toward the upstream inlet. A detailed description of the tetrahedral filter media described above may be found in U.S. patent No. 8,397,920, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes.

Once the fluid is filtered by the filter element 112, the fluid flows out of the fluid outlet 106 and into the flow conditioner assembly 114. The flow conditioner assembly 114 is coupled (e.g., attached, affixed, screwed, bolted, fastened, welded, formed, snapped, adhered, glued, etc.) to the fluid filtration system 100. In other embodiments, flow conditioner assembly 114 is integrally formed with fluid filtration system 100 using manufacturing methods, such as injection molding (injection molding), 3D printing, milling, turning, casting, and the like. As used herein, two or more elements are "integrally formed" with each other when they are formed and joined together as part of a single manufacturing process to produce a single-piece or unitary construction that cannot be disassembled without at least partially destroying the entire component.

Referring to fig. 3, a perspective view of an exemplary flow conditioner assembly 114 is shown. The flow conditioner assembly 114 includes a flow conditioner conduit 116. The flow regulator tube 116 includes a flow regulator tube inlet portion 118, a flow regulator tube outlet portion 120, and a flow regulator tube connection portion 122 disposed between the flow regulator tube inlet portion 118 and the flow regulator tube outlet portion 120. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 is in fluid receiving communication with the filter housing 102 and receives fluid from the fluid outlet 106. The flow regulator tube connection portion 122 fluidly couples the flow regulator tube inlet portion 118 and the flow regulator tube outlet portion 120. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 is in fluid receiving communication with the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 and provides fluid to the downstream system. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 is located on a radial axis 124 of the flow conditioner assembly 114. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 is located on an axial axis 126 of the flow conditioner assembly 114. The length of axial axis 126 along radial axis 124 is perpendicular to radial axis 124. The flow conditioner pipe connection portion 122 fluidly couples the flow conditioner pipe inlet portion 118 to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 such that the flow conditioner pipe 116 is an elbow pipe. In other embodiments, the flow conditioner conduit 116 is a straight conduit or an angled conduit. The flow conditioner pipe inlet portion 118, the flow conditioner pipe connection portion 122, and the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 are integrally formed using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, casting, etc.). The flow regulator tube inlet portion 118, the flow regulator tube connection portion 122, and the flow regulator tube outlet portion 120 may be coupled together.

The flow conditioner pipe inlet portion 118 receives fluid flow from the fluid outlet 106 and provides fluid flow to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 via the flow conditioner pipe connection portion 122.

The flow conditioner assembly 114 includes a flow conditioner 128, the flow conditioner 128 configured to transition the fluid flow from turbulent (e.g., irregular, unstable, noisy, chaotic, etc.) to laminar (e.g., constant, smooth, straight, etc.). The flow conditioner 128 is integrally formed to the flow conditioner conduit 116 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, casting, etc.). In other embodiments, the flow conditioner 128 is coupled to the flow conditioner conduit 116. A flow regulator 128 is disposed within the flow regulator tube 116 between the flow regulator tube connection portion 122 and the flow regulator tube outlet portion 120. A flow conditioner 128 may be disposed within the flow conditioner conduit 116 between the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 and the flow conditioner conduit connection portion 122. As the fluid flows from within the flow conditioner assembly 114, the fluid may be turbulent. The flow conditioner 128 is configured to straighten the fluid flow (e.g., reduce turbulence, smooth the fluid flow, etc.) as the fluid flows through the flow conditioner 128.

As shown in fig. 4, the flow conditioner 128 includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall 130. The flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 is coupled to an inner surface 132 of the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 120, as described herein. The flow conditioner 128 includes a plurality of first cross members 134. A first plurality of cross members 134 are coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 and extend laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130. The plurality of first cross members 134 are integrally formed with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). The plurality of first cross members 134 may be coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 such that the plurality of first cross members 134 form a spiral shape, a triangular shape, an irregular shape, and the like. A first plurality of cross members 134 extend along a lateral axis 136 of the flow conditioner assembly 114. The length of lateral axis 136 along axial axis 126 is perpendicular to axial axis 126, and the length along radial axis 124 is perpendicular to radial axis 124. In other embodiments, the plurality of first cross members 134 extend diagonally about the lateral axis 136 and the radial axis 124.

The flow conditioner 128 includes a plurality of second cross members 138. A second plurality of cross members 138 extend laterally across the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 and the first plurality of cross members 134 such that the second plurality of cross members 138 extend along the radial axis 124, wherein the first and second plurality of

cross members

134, 138 cooperate to define a grid. Although the plurality of second cross members 138 are shown as extending laterally relative to the plurality of first cross members 134, it should be noted that the plurality of second cross members may extend at other non-lateral angles relative to the plurality of first cross members. The plurality of second cross members 138 are coupled to at least two of the plurality of first cross members 134. In other embodiments, a plurality of second cross members 138 are coupled to a plurality of first cross members 134. In other embodiments, the plurality of second cross members 138 are integrally formed with the plurality of first cross members 134 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). The plurality of first cross members 134 and the plurality of second cross members 138 are configured such that upstream fluid flow is in contact with the plurality of first cross members 134 and the plurality of second cross members 138 such that lateral flow within the flow conditioner duct 116 is restricted. The plurality of second cross members 138 cooperate with the plurality of first cross members 134 to define a plurality of apertures 140 in the flow adjuster 128. The fluid flows through a plurality of downstream apertures 140 to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120. Here, as the fluid flows through the plurality of apertures 140, the fluid flow is substantially laminar as the lateral flow of the fluid is restricted by the plurality of second cross members 138. The plurality of apertures 140 are similarly sized such that fluid flow across the flow conditioner 128 is substantially uniform. In other embodiments, the plurality of apertures 140 are different sizes.

As described herein, fluid flows in the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 to the sensor housing and sensor. As shown in fig. 5, the flow conditioner assembly 114 includes a sensor housing 142. The sensor housing 142 is coupled to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 of the flow conditioner conduit 116 downstream of the flow conditioner 128. The sensor housing 142 is configured to house a sensor (e.g., a pressure sensor, a temperature sensor, a mass air flow sensor, etc.) for measuring a property of the fluid. The sensor is located within the sensor housing. The sensor housing 142 is coupled such that the sensor housing 142 surrounds the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion bore 144. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture 144 enables the sensor to extend laterally along the lateral axis 136 from the sensor housing 142 through the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture 144 into the downstream flow of the fluid such that a property of the fluid flow is measured before the flow of the fluid exits the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120.

Referring back to fig. 4, according to one embodiment, the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 includes a groove 146. As shown in fig. 6, the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 includes a ridge 148 coupled with the groove 146. The ridge 148 is integrally formed with the inner surface 132 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 using a manufacturing method, such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, or the like. In other embodiments, the ridge 148 is coupled to the inner surface 132 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120. The ridge 148 extends in an axial direction downstream of the flow adjuster 128 along the axial axis 126. In operation, the grooves 146 on the flow adjuster 128 are aligned with the ridges 148 such that the flow adjuster 128 can move linearly along the axial axis 126 and is disposed within the flow adjuster conduit outlet portion 120, but cannot move rotationally about the axial axis 126. The alignment of the ridges 148 with the grooves 146 is a fail-safe design (poka yoke). This allows the flow conditioner 128 to be removably coupled with the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120.

As shown in fig. 4, according to one embodiment, the outer annular wall of the flow conditioner includes a plurality of locking arms 150. A plurality of locking arms 150 are circumferentially disposed and extend axially around the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130. The plurality of locking arms 150 are integrally formed with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130 using a manufacturing method, such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, or the like. In other embodiments, a plurality of locking arms 150 are coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 130. Each of the plurality of locking arms 150 includes a locking arm aperture 152.

As shown in fig. 6, the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 includes a plurality of locking members (locks) 154. A plurality of locking members 154 are disposed along the circumference of the inner surface 132 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120 and upstream of the flow conditioner 128. The plurality of locking members 154 may be integrally formed to the inner surface 132 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 using a manufacturing method, such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, and the like. In other embodiments, a plurality of locks 154 are coupled to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 120. As shown in fig. 7, the plurality of locking members 154 engage the locking arm 150 such that the flow regulator 128 is coupled with the flow regulator conduit outlet portion 120. In addition, the plurality of locking arms 150 and the plurality of locking members 154 cooperate to engage each other to retain the flow conditioner 128 within the flow conditioner conduit 116. The plurality of locking arms 150 and the plurality of locking members 154 engage each other such that the flow adjuster 128 is restricted from moving in an axial direction along the axial axis 126.

When the flow conditioner is disposed within the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 and each locking arm aperture 152 on each of the plurality of locking arms 150 receives one of the plurality of locking members 154, the plurality of locking arms 150 will engage the plurality of locking members 154. In other embodiments, each of the plurality of locking members 154 forms an interference fit (interference fit) with each of the plurality of locking arm holes 152 such that the flow conditioner 128 is coupled to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120.

Fig. 8 and 9 show various top views of another embodiment of a flow conditioner assembly 214. The flow conditioner assembly 214 includes a flow conditioner conduit 216. The flow conditioner conduit 216 includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 218. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 218 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow regulator tube 216 includes a flow regulator tube connection portion 222. The flow regulator tube connection portion 222 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tube connection portion 122 described herein. The flow conditioner conduit 216 includes a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 214 includes a flow conditioner 228. The flow conditioner 228 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner 128 described herein. The flow conditioner 228 includes at least one tongue 250 disposed about the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230. At least one tongue 250 extends axially along the axial axis 226 from the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230 and laterally along the lateral axis 236 to form an L-shape. In other embodiments, at least one tongue 250 extends axially along the axial axis 226 from the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230 and radially along the radial axis to form an L-shape. The at least one tongue 250 is integrally formed with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). At least one tongue 250 can be coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230.

The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220 of the flow conditioner assembly 214 includes at least one rotational groove 254. At least one rotational groove 254 extends radially along a radial axis from the inner surface 232 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220 and laterally along the lateral axis 236 to form an L-shape. In other embodiments, the at least one rotational groove 254 extends radially along a radial axis from the inner surface 232 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220. At least one rotational groove 254 receives at least one tongue 250.

In operation, the flow conditioner 228 is first disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 220. The flow adjuster 228 is then rotated about the axial axis 226 such that the at least one rotational groove 254 receives the at least one tongue 250. The at least one rotational groove 254 cooperates with the at least one tongue 250 to couple and retain the flow adjuster within the flow adjuster tube 216 and restrict movement of the flow adjuster 228 about the axial axis 226.

The flow conditioner 228 may include at least one tongue 250 and groove 246, as described herein. Additionally, the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 220 may include at least one rotational groove 254 and a ridge 248, as described herein. Here, the flow conditioner 228 is coupled to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220 such that the groove 246 is aligned with the ridge 248, as described herein, and the flow conditioner 228 is disposed within the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 220 such that the at least one rotational groove 254 engages with the at least one tongue 250, as described herein.

In various embodiments, the flow conditioner 228 may include a plurality of tongues 250 circumferentially disposed about the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230, and the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 220 may include a plurality of rotational grooves 254 circumferentially disposed about the inner surface 232 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 220. The plurality of rotational grooves 254 are configured similar to the at least one rotational groove and the plurality of tongues 250 are configured similar to the at least one tongue 250. Here, the flow conditioner 228 is first disposed within the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion. The flow adjuster 228 is then rotated about the axial axis 226 such that each of the plurality of rotational grooves 254 receives one of the plurality of tongues 250. Each of the plurality of rotational grooves 254 cooperates with one of the plurality of tongues 250 to retain and couple the flow adjuster and restrict movement of the flow adjuster 228 about the axial axis 226. In other embodiments, the plurality of tongues 250 includes a first tongue and a second tongue. A first tongue extends axially from the flow conditioner outer annular wall 230 along the axial axis 226 and laterally along the lateral axis 236 to form an L-shape, and a second tongue extends axially along the axial axis 226 and radially along the radial axis to form an L-shape.

Fig. 10 and 11 illustrate various views of another embodiment of a flow conditioner assembly 314. Fig. 10 shows a cross-sectional side view of a flow conditioner assembly according to another embodiment, and fig. 11 shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the flow conditioner assembly 314. The flow conditioner assembly 314 includes a flow conditioner conduit 316. The flow regulator conduit 316 includes a flow regulator conduit inlet portion (not shown). The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow regulator tube 316 includes a flow regulator tube outlet portion 320. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 320 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. The flow regulator tube 316 includes a flow regulator tube connection portion 322. The flow regulator tube connection portion 322 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tube connection portion 122 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 314 includes a flow conditioner 328. The flow conditioner 328 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner 128. The flow conditioner 328 includes at least one locking flange 350 disposed about the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330. At least one locking flange 350 extends axially along the axial axis 326 from the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330. The at least one locking flange 350 is integrally formed with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). In other embodiments, at least one locking flange 350 is coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330. At least one locking flange 350 includes a locking flange aperture 352. At least one lock flange 350 is disposed on the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330 such that the lateral axis 336 extends through the lock flange aperture 352. At least one lock flange 350 can be disposed on the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330 such that the radial axis 324 extends through the lock flange aperture 352.

The flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 of the flow conditioner assembly 314 includes at least one locking stud 354. At least one locking stud 354 extends from the inner surface 332 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 320 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. At least one locking stud 354 extends laterally from the inner surface 332 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 along a lateral axis 336. In other embodiments, at least one locking stud 354 extends radially from the inner surface 332 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 along the radial axis 324. At least one locking stud 354 may extend diagonally between the radial axis 324 and the lateral axis. The at least one locking stud 354 is integrally formed to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). In other embodiments, at least one locking stud 354 may be coupled to the inner surface 332 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320. The at least one locking stud 354 is received by the locking flange aperture 352 of the at least one locking flange 350.

In operation, the flow conditioner 328 is disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320. The flow conditioner 328 is disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 such that the locking flange aperture 352 of the at least one locking flange 350 receives the at least one locking stud 354. The lock flange aperture 352 of the at least one lock flange 350 cooperates with the at least one lock stud 354 to retain and couple the flow adjuster 328 to the flow adjuster tube 316 such that movement of the flow adjuster 328 about the axial axis 326 is restricted.

In another embodiment of the flow adjuster assembly 314, the flow adjuster 328 includes a plurality of locking flanges 350, the locking flanges 350 being circumferentially disposed about the flow adjuster outer annular wall 330 and configured similar to the at least one locking flange 350. In this embodiment, the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 includes a plurality of locking flange studs 354, the locking flange studs 354 being circumferentially disposed about the inner surface 332 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 and configured similar to at least one locking stud 354. Here, the flow conditioner 328 is disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 such that each locking flange aperture 352 of the plurality of locking flanges 350 receives at least one of the plurality of locking flange studs 354 to retain and couple the flow conditioner 328 to the flow conditioner pipe 316. Each of the plurality of locking flange apertures 352 cooperates with a respective one of the plurality of locking flange studs 354 to restrict movement of the flow adjuster about the axial axis 326. The plurality of locking flange studs 354 may include a first locking flange stud and a second locking flange stud. A first locking flange stud extends radially from the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 along the radial axis 324, and a second locking flange stud extends laterally from the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 along the lateral axis 336.

As described herein, with reference to fig. 10, fig. 10 depicts the flow conditioner assembly 314 with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330 including at least one locking flange 350 and a groove 346. As described herein, in such embodiments, the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 320 includes at least one locking stud 354 and a ridge 348. The grooves 346 are substantially similar to the grooves 146 described herein, and the ridges are substantially similar to the ridges 148 described herein. Here, the groove 346 on the flow conditioner outer annular wall 330 aligns with the ridge 348 on the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 320 to dispose the flow conditioner 328 within the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 320, and the at least one locking flange 350 mates with the at least one locking stud 354 to couple the flow conditioner 328 with the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 320, as described herein.

FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a flow conditioner assembly 414. The flow conditioner assembly 414 includes a flow conditioner conduit 416. The flow conditioner conduit 416 includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 418. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 418 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow conditioner conduit 416 includes a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 420. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 420 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. The flow conditioner conduit 416 includes a flow conditioner conduit connection portion 422. The flow regulator tubing connection portion 422 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tubing connection portion 122 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 414 includes a flow conditioner (not shown). The flow conditioner may be substantially similar to the flow conditioner 128 described herein. The flow conditioner may be disposed within the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 420. The flow adjuster assembly 414 includes a plurality of fasteners 428 (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.). A plurality of fasteners 428 are circumferentially disposed about the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 420 and retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit 416. The plurality of fasteners 428 are configured to limit movement of the flow adjuster about the axial axis 426.

Although not shown, it can be appreciated that the plurality of fasteners 428 are configured to mate with the various embodiments of the flow conditioner assembly described herein. For example, as described herein, the flow conditioner assembly 114 may include a plurality of fasteners 428 in combination with the grooves 146 and ridges 148 and/or a plurality of locking arms 150 and a plurality of locking members 154. As described herein, in other embodiments, the flow conditioner assembly 214 includes a plurality of fasteners 428 in combination with at least one tongue 250 and at least one rotational groove 254. As described herein, the flow conditioner assembly 314 may include a plurality of fasteners 428 in combination with at least one locking flange 350 and at least one locking stud 354.

Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate various embodiments of a flow conditioner assembly 514. Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of the flow conditioner assembly 514, and fig. 14 shows an enlarged perspective front view of the flow conditioner assembly 514. The flow conditioner assembly 514 includes a flow conditioner conduit 516. The flow conditioner conduit 516 includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 518. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 518 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow conditioner conduit 516 includes a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 520. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 520 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. The flow regulator tube 516 includes a flow regulator tube connection portion 522. The flow regulator tube connection portion 522 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tube connection portion 122 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 514 includes a flow conditioner 528. The flow conditioner 528 may be substantially similar to the flow conditioner 128 described herein. The flow conditioner may be disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 520. The flow conditioner 528 includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall 530. The flow conditioner outer annular wall 530 includes a ridge 546. The ridges 546 extend from the flow conditioner outer annular wall 530 and are integrally formed with the flow conditioner outer annular wall 530 using a manufacturing method (such as injection molding, 3D printing, milling, turning, etc.). In other embodiments, the ridge 546 is coupled to the flow conditioner outer annular wall 530. As shown in fig. 13, the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a groove 548. The groove 548 extends in an axial direction downstream of the flow adjuster 528 along the axial axis 526. In operation, the ridges 546 on the flow adjuster 528 are aligned with the grooves 548 such that the flow adjuster 528 can be linearly movable along the axial axis 526 and disposed within the flow adjuster conduit outlet portion 520, but cannot be rotationally movable about the axial axis 526. The alignment of the ridges 546 and grooves 548 is a mistake-proof design. This allows the flow conditioner 528 to be removably coupled with the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 520.

Fig. 15 and 16 illustrate another embodiment of a flow conditioner assembly 614. Fig. 15 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the flow conditioner assembly 614. Fig. 16 illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the flow conditioner assembly 614, showing a weld joint, as described herein. The flow conditioner assembly 614 includes a flow conditioner conduit 616. The flow regulator conduit 616 includes a flow regulator conduit inlet portion 618. The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 618 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow regulator tube 616 includes a flow regulator tube outlet portion 620. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 620 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. The flow regulator tubing 616 includes a flow regulator tubing connection portion 622. The flow regulator tubing connection portion 622 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tubing connection portion 122 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 614 includes a flow conditioner 628. The flow regulator 628 may be substantially similar to the flow regulator 128 described herein. The flow conditioner may be disposed within the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 620. The flow conditioner 628 includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall 630. As shown in fig. 16, the flow conditioner 628 is welded (e.g., ultrasonically welded, etc.) to the inner surface 632 of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 620. In operation, at least one weld joint 650 is formed between the flow conditioner outer annular wall 630 and the inner surface 632 of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion 620. The at least one weld joint 650 restricts movement of the flow adjuster 628 after being disposed within the flow adjuster tube outlet portion 620.

Fig. 17 and 18 illustrate another embodiment of a flow conditioner assembly 714. Fig. 17 shows an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the flow conditioner assembly 714. Fig. 18 illustrates an enlarged side view of the flow conditioner assembly 714, showing adhesive coupling, as described herein. The flow conditioner assembly 714 includes a flow conditioner conduit 716. The flow conditioner conduit 716 includes a flow conditioner conduit inlet portion (not shown). The flow conditioner conduit inlet portion is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion 118 described herein. The flow conditioner conduit 716 includes a flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720. The flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720 is substantially similar to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 120 described herein. The flow regulator tubing 716 includes a flow regulator tubing connection portion 722. The flow regulator tube connection portion 722 is substantially similar to the flow regulator tube connection portion 122 described herein.

The flow conditioner assembly 714 includes a flow conditioner 728. Flow conditioner 728 may be substantially similar to flow conditioner 128 described herein. The flow conditioner may be disposed within the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720. A flow conditioner 728 is coupled to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720 and disposed in the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720. Flow conditioner 728 includes a flow conditioner outer annular wall 730 and flow conditioner conduit outlet portion 720 includes an inner surface 732. In operation, an adhesive 750 (e.g., epoxy, glue, etc.) is disposed between the flow conditioner outer annular wall 730 and the inner surface 732 of the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 720 to adhesively bond the flow conditioner 728 within the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 720 such that movement of the flow conditioner 728 within the flow conditioner duct outlet portion 720 is restricted.

While the flow conditioner assembly described herein is described as being coupled to a fluid filtration system 100, it should be understood that the flow conditioner assembly may be coupled with any filtration system having a fluid outlet.

While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, although features may be described 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.

As used herein, the terms "substantially," "generally," and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will appreciate that these terms are intended to allow for the description of certain features described and claimed without limiting 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 variations of the described and claimed subject matter are considered within the scope of the appended claims.

The term "couple" and similar terms as used herein mean the joining of two components directly or indirectly to one another. Such a link may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable, releasable, or rotatable). Such joining may be achieved by the two components or the two components and any additional intermediate components being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or by the two components or the two components and any additional intermediate components being attached to one another.

As used herein, the term "fluidly coupled to" and similar terms mean that two components or objects have a passageway formed therebetween in which a fluid, such as air, compressed dry air, compressed air, or the like, may flow with or without interference from the components or objects. Examples of fluid couplings or configurations for achieving fluid communication may include tubing, channels, or any other suitable components for achieving a flow of fluid from one component or object to another component or object.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various systems shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only and not limiting in nature. All changes and modifications that come within the spirit or scope of the described embodiments are desired to be protected. It should be understood that some features may not be necessary and embodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the disclosure, the scope being defined by the claims that follow. When the language "a portion" is used, the item can include a portion or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

Further, the term "or" in the context of a list of elements is used in its inclusive sense (rather than its exclusive sense) such that when used in connection with a list of elements, the term "or" means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, connection language such as the phrase "X, Y and at least one of Z" is understood to refer to either X, Y, Z, X and Y, X and Z, Y and Z, or X, Y and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y and Z) with respect to the context as it is commonly used to express items, terms, etc. Thus, unless otherwise indicated, such conjunctive language is generally not intended to imply that certain embodiments require that at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z each be present.

Claims

1. A flow conditioner assembly, said flow conditioner assembly comprising:

a flow conditioner conduit, comprising:

a flow conditioner pipe inlet portion coupled to the flow conditioner pipe inlet portion and in fluid receiving communication with the flow conditioner pipe inlet portion; and

2. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 1, wherein the flow conditioner conduit further comprises:

3. A flow conditioner assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion is connected to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, forming an elbow.

4. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 1, wherein:

the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a ridge formed thereon that extends in an axial direction downstream of the flow conditioner; and is provided with

5. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 4, wherein:

the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a plurality of locking elements located upstream of the flow conditioner and disposed along a circumference of the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion; and is

6. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 4, wherein:

7. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 4, wherein:

8. The flow conditioner assembly of any one of claims 4-7, wherein the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion includes a plurality of fasteners disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, the plurality of fasteners retaining the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

9. The flow conditioner assembly of claim 2, wherein the sensor housing includes a sensor within the sensor housing that extends through the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion aperture into the downstream flow of the fluid and measures a property of the fluid.

10. The flow conditioner assembly of any one of claims 1-2, 4-7, and 9, wherein the flow conditioner is welded to the flow conditioner pipe.

11. A fluid filtration system, comprising:

a filter housing, comprising:

a housing main body;

a filtration system inlet, and

an outlet of the filtration system;

a filter element disposed within the filter housing, an

a flow conditioner conduit, comprising:

12. The fluid filtration system of claim 11, wherein the flow conditioner conduit comprises:

13. A fluid filtration system according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the flow conditioner conduit inlet portion is connected to the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, forming an elbow.

14. The fluid filtration system of claim 13, wherein:

15. The fluid filtration system of claim 14, wherein:

the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion includes a plurality of locking members located upstream of the flow conditioner and disposed along a circumference of the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion; and is provided with

16. The fluid filtration system of claim 14, wherein:

the flow conditioner outer annular wall includes at least one tongue disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner outer annular wall, the at least one tongue extending axially and laterally from the flow conditioner outer annular wall to form an L-shape; and is provided with

17. The fluid filtration system of claim 14, wherein:

The flow conditioner outer annular wall includes at least one locking flange that receives the at least one locking stud within a locking flange aperture that cooperates with the at least one locking stud to retain the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner duct.

18. The fluid filtration system of any one of claims 14-17, wherein the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion comprises a plurality of fasteners disposed circumferentially about the flow conditioner conduit outlet portion, the plurality of fasteners retaining the flow conditioner within the flow conditioner conduit.

19. The fluid filtration system of claim 12, wherein the sensor housing comprises:

20. The fluid filtration system of any one of claims 11-12, 14-17, and 19, wherein the flow conditioner is welded to the flow conditioner pipe outlet portion.