EP1763393A1 - Ensemble de filtre possédant une antenne - Google Patents

Ensemble de filtre possédant une antenne

Info

Publication number
EP1763393A1
EP1763393A1 EP05767640A EP05767640A EP1763393A1 EP 1763393 A1 EP1763393 A1 EP 1763393A1 EP 05767640 A EP05767640 A EP 05767640A EP 05767640 A EP05767640 A EP 05767640A EP 1763393 A1 EP1763393 A1 EP 1763393A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
filter
antenna
tag
conduit arrangement
tag reader
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05767640A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
John R. Hacker
Jess T. Nordby
Michael Jon Gustafson
Paul Curtiss
Patrick J. Clint
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Donaldson Co Inc
Original Assignee
Donaldson Co Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Donaldson Co Inc filed Critical Donaldson Co Inc
Publication of EP1763393A1 publication Critical patent/EP1763393A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D35/00—Filtering devices having features not specifically covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D33/00, or for applications not specifically covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D33/00; Auxiliary devices for filtration; Filter housing constructions
    • B01D35/14—Safety devices specially adapted for filtration; Devices for indicating clogging
    • B01D35/143—Filter condition indicators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2201/00—Details relating to filtering apparatus
    • B01D2201/29—Filter cartridge constructions
    • B01D2201/291—End caps
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2201/00—Details relating to filtering apparatus
    • B01D2201/40—Special measures for connecting different parts of the filter
    • B01D2201/4046—Means for avoiding false mounting of different parts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2201/00—Details relating to filtering apparatus
    • B01D2201/52—Filter identification means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2201/00—Details relating to filtering apparatus
    • B01D2201/56—Wireless systems for monitoring the filter

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to filters, and more particularly, to a filter assembly having an antenna.
  • Background Filters are often a critical element in the operation and maintenance of machinery, engines, furnaces, and other equipment in which fluids, including both liquids and gases, must have a certain level of purity from foreign particles.
  • oil filters are critical for ensuring the engine oil is free from particles that can accelerate wear in an engine and otherwise cause damage. Failing to have a filter in place can cause particulates to enter the engine, or other equipment, and cause serious damage. Having a filter in place too long also can harm an engine or other equipment.
  • a dirty oil filter can impede the flow of fluid through an engine and reduce the oil pressure in an engine causing engine damage.
  • some engines have a pressure relief valve that opens when the filter becomes clogged, which allows oil to bypass the filter and results in dirty oil reaching the engine and causing accelerated wear.
  • Ensuring a properly installed and properly maintained air filter is also critical for many applications.
  • One of many possible examples is a filter for the air-intake of an engine. A missing filter can result in dust, sand, and other particles flowing into the engine, which again accelerates engine wear. Having a clogged filter can restrict the air intake and degrade engine performance.
  • Another example is air purification systems. If an air filter is missing in an air purification system, air having potentially contaminated air will flow into undesirable location, which can be harmful in a variety of applications such as clean rooms for manufacturing semiconductors, hospitals and clinics having surgical facilities, and the homes of people who suffer from allergies.
  • the present invention is directed to a filter assembly on which an RF tag is mounted.
  • An antenna is positioned within the filter assembly and is arranged to communicate with a tag reader positioned remotely from the filter assembly.
  • a filter apparatus comprises a filter conduit arrangement.
  • An antenna is operably connected to the filter conduit arrangement.
  • a filter apparatus comprising a filter media.
  • An antenna is operably connected to the filter media.
  • Another aspect of the present invention is a filter apparatus comprising a filter cartridge including filter media.
  • An RF tag is connected to the filter media.
  • An antenna assembly is operably connected to a filter conduit arrangement.
  • the antenna assembly includes an antenna conductor in electrical communication with a connector. The connector electrically connects the antenna to a tag reader remote from the filter conduit arrangement.
  • Another aspect of the present invention is a method of communicating with a filter apparatus.
  • the method comprises positioning a filter cartridge proximal to a filter conduit arrangement, the filter cartridge including a filter media and an RF tag; exciting an antenna operably connected to the filter conduit arrangement; communicating an electrical signal between the antenna and a tag reader positioned remotely from the filter conduit arrangement.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a filter assembly embodying the claimed invention.
  • Figure 2 is a top plan view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 1.
  • Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figures
  • Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figures 1 and 2 taken along line 4-4.
  • Figure 5 is a detail illustrating an RF tag and an RF tag reader illustrated in Figure 4.
  • Figure 6 is a top plan view of an alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 6 taken along line 7-7.
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the filter assembly shown in Figure 6 taken along line 8-8.
  • Figure 9 is a detail illustrating an RF tag and an RF tag reader illustrated in Figure 8.
  • Figure 10 is a detail illustrating an RF tag and an RF tag reader illustrated in Figure 9.
  • Figure 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating one possible embodiment of an RF tag and RF tag reader.
  • Figure 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating an alternative embodiment of an RF tag and RF tag reader.
  • Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 14 is a cross sections view illustrating an antenna shown in Figure 13.
  • Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 19 is an isometric view of an antenna shown in Figure 18.
  • Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of a filter assembly embodying the present invention.
  • Figure 21 is an exploded view of the filter assembly illustrated in Figure 20.
  • Figure 22 is a partial perspective view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a snout and antenna of the filter assembly illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
  • Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a filter conduit assembly illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
  • Figure 24 is a top plan view of an upper end cap from a filter cartridge illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
  • Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the upper end cap illustrated in Figure 24.
  • Figure 26 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment for the filter cartridge illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
  • Figure 27 is a top plan view of an RF tag and antenna illustrated in
  • a filter assembly 90 that includes a filter conduit on head assembly 111 and a bowl assembly 109.
  • the head assembly 111 includes a filter conduit arrangement 117, such as the illustrated filter head, that defines an inlet 102, an inlet passage 103, and outlet passage 107 and an outlet 108.
  • the inlet passage 103 has a cylindrical portion 132 that is defined by an outer wall 133 and an inner cylindrical projection on snout 134.
  • the filter conduit arrangement 117 is machined.
  • the conduit assembly can include any structure that directs air or liquid through filter media.
  • a connector 127 is mounted on the filter conduit arrangement 117 and a tag reader 124 is positioned on the input passage 103 and is mounted on the snout 134.
  • An electrical lead 135 extends through the filter conduit arrangement 117 and provides electrical communication between the connector 127 and the tag reader 124.
  • the tag reader 124 is attached to the snout 134 with an adhesive such as epoxy resin, which encapsulates the tag reader 124 and protects it from fluid that is flowing through the filter assembly 90.
  • the tag reader 124 is illustrated in a particular location, it can be mounted in any location in which it can communicate with the RF tag 121 (discussed in more detail herein) when a filter cartridge 100 (discussed in more detail herein) is properly installed in the filter assembly 90.
  • the tag reader 124 is mounted within other locations of the input passage 103, the output passage 107, or even the exterior or other portion of the dry end of the filter conduit arrangement 117.
  • the tag reader 124 is encapsulated or otherwise protected from fluid and other environmental conditions.
  • the tag reader 124 could be potted within a housing or similar type of casing.
  • the tag reader 124 could be coated with an epoxy resin or other protective material.
  • the tag reader 124 is mounted on the exterior or dry end of the filter conduit arrangement 117, it may be integrally molded with the connector 127, which protects it from the environmental hazards and forms a single unit for ease of manufacturing.
  • the electrical lead 135 forms an antenna and has one end electrically connected to the electronics, discussed below, of the tag reader 124 and an opposite end positioned proximal to the filter cartridge 100.
  • the bowl assembly 109 has a bowl 112 and a filter cartridge 100, which is a bowl-type filter cartridge.
  • the bowl 112 defines a cavity 136 in which the filter cartridge 100 is located.
  • the bowl assembly 109 has an open top end 137 and closed bottom end 138.
  • the top end 137 is connected to the filter conduit arrangement 117 with a seal 113 located between the top end 137 of the bowl 112 and the filter conduit arrangement 117 to prevent leaking fluid.
  • Alternative embodiments of liquid filters will include structures other than a bowl-type filter cartridge.
  • possible embodiments include spin-on type of filter cartridge in which the filter media is not removable from the bowl 112.
  • the filter cartridge 100 is a bowl-type filter cartridge and includes a cylindrical filter media 105 having an upper end and a lower end.
  • An upper end cap 114 is attached to the upper end of the filter cartridge 100 and a lower end cap 115 is attached to the lower end.
  • An inner liner 116 is mounted on an inner surface of the cylindrical filter media 105 and defines a center volume 106.
  • An upper seal 120 is positioned between the upper end cap 114 and the snout 134.
  • a lower seal (not shown) is positioned between the lower end cap 115 and the bottom end 138 of the bowl 112.
  • the bowl assembly 100 is removable from the filter conduit arrangement 117, which permits the filter cartridge 100 to be replaced or otherwise serviced.
  • An RF tag 121 is attached to the filter cartridge 100.
  • the RF tag 121 is molded directly into the upper end cap 114 as described in more detail herein.
  • the RF tag 121 is mounted on an upper surface of the upper end cap 114 with an adhesive such as epoxy resin. The epoxy resin encapsulates the RF tag 121 and protects it from fluid and other environmental hazards.
  • the RF tag 121 is attached to the filter cartridge 100 in locations other than the upper end cap 114.
  • the filter cartridge 100 is positioned in the cavity 136 of the bowl 112 such that the upper end cap 114 engages the snout 134 and the lower end cap 115 engages the bottom end 138 of the bowl 112.
  • the filter cartridge 100 divides the cavity 136 into an outer annulus 104 that is in unrestricted fluid communication with the inlet passage 103 and the center volume 106 that is in unrestricted fluid communication with the outlet passage 107.
  • the RF tag 121 is positioned proximal to the tag reader 124.
  • the filter cartridge 100 has a key (not shown) so that it must have a predetermined angular orientation relative to the filter head 111 when the filter cartridge 100 is mounted in the filter assembly 90.
  • the RF tag 121 is directly opposing the tag reader 124 when the filter cartridge 109 is mounted in the filter assembly 90.
  • oil or another fluid flows into the inlet 102, through the inlet passage 103, down the annulus 104 surrounding the filter cartridge 100, through the filter media 105 where the contaminant is removed, up the center volume 106 of the filter cartridge 100, through the outlet passage 107 and out the outlet 108.
  • FIGS. 6-10 illustrate another possible embodiment in which a filter assembly has a filter conduit assembly 129 that is substantially similar to the filter conduit assembly 117 described above, but is a top-load configuration in which a cap 139 is attached to the filter conduit assembly 129 to enclose a filter cartridge 142.
  • the filter conduit assembly 129 includes a base 140, input 110, input passage 113, an outlet 118, and outlet passage 119.
  • the outer wall 141 of the conduit arrangement 140 defines an opening 122 at the top and is elongated so that it fully receives the bowl assembly filter cartridge 142.
  • the cap 139 engages the outer wall 141 and encloses the opening 122.
  • the filter cartridge 142 is substantially the same as the filter cartridge 100 described above and includes an upper end cap 123, a lower end cap 125, and a cylindrical filter media 105.
  • the RF tag 121 is molded into the lower end cap 125.
  • the upper end cap 123 includes a plurality of first tabs 143.
  • the cap 139 includes a second series of tabs 144 that engage the first series of tabs 143. A user can thus install and remove the filter cartridge 142 by gripping the cap 139 without having to insert his or her fingers or tools into the conduit arrangement 140.
  • the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 systems include one that use low frequencies in the range of about 500 KHz or less, high frequencies of about 1500 KHz or more, and ultra high frequencies of about 300 MHz or more.
  • the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at low frequencies in the range of about 50 KHz to about 500 KHz.
  • the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at low frequencies in the range of about 125 KHZ to about 134 KHz.
  • the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at high frequencies in the range of about 1500 KHz to about 30 MHz, and in another possibility they operate at a high frequency of about 13.56 MHz.
  • the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at ultra high frequency in the range of about 300 MHz to about 1000 MHz. In another possible embodiment, the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at ultra high frequency in the range of about 865 MHz to about 956 MHz.
  • a performance history can be generated that manufactures of the equipment and manufactures of the filter cartridge can use to analyze and improve their products. Manufactures also can use such information to verify proper maintenance for warrantee purposes.
  • the engine control module or other programmable circuit can be programmed to signal warning indicators and to disable the equipment upon certain conditions such as a failure to detect a filter cartridge.
  • FIG 11 illustrates one possible embodiment of a low- and high- frequency systems.
  • the range at which a low-frequency system works is typically less than one meter.
  • the low frequency RF tag 121 includes a coil 146, transistor 147, diode 148, capacitor 149, and an integrated circuit 150.
  • the tag reader 124 includes a coil 151, analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 152, oscillator 153, and integrated circuit 154.
  • the integrated circuit 154 in the reader 124 is powered from an external source (not shown).
  • the tag reader integrated circuit 154 can be in data communication with a remote programmable circuit such as a microprocessor or microcomputer.
  • the remote programmable circuit is an engine control module on a vehicle.
  • the integrated circuit 154 in the tag reader 124 sends a signal to the oscillator 153, which creates an alternating current in the reader's coil 151. That current flows through the coil 151 and generates an alternating magnetic field that serves as a power source for the RF tag 121.
  • the magnetic field from the coil 151 of the tag reader 124 excites the coil 146 in the RF tag 121, which induces a current that charges the capacitor 149.
  • the diode 148 prevents current flowing from the capacitor 149 back to the coil 146 and the transistor 147.
  • the RF tag integrated circuit 150 As the charge accumulates in the capacitor 149, the voltage across it increases and upon reaching a predetermined voltage level activates the RF tag integrated circuit 150, which outputs a signal embodying the data stored in the integrated circuit 150.
  • the signal output from the integrated circuit 150 changes the state of the transistor 147 base between biased and unbiased states, which in turn causes the flow of current between the emitter and collector of the transistor 147 to start and stop causing the magnetic field of the coil to fluctuate.
  • the variations of the RF tag's 121 magnetic field embody the data output from the integrated circuit 150 and interfere with and cause fluctuations in the magnetic field generated by the tag reader coil 151.
  • Fluctuations in the tag reader's magnetic field substantially match fluctuations in RF tag's magnetic field and causes fluctuations in the amplitude of the current flowing through the tag reader coil 151.
  • the fluctuations in the amplitude of the current flowing through the tag reader coil 151 from an analog signal that embodies the data from the RF tag 121.
  • the A/D converter 152 converts the analog signal to a digital signal, which is input to the integrated circuit 154.
  • the integrated circuit 154 of the tag reader 124 then processes this digital signal and discerns the information stored in the tag's integrated circuit.
  • Figure 12 illustrates one possible embodiment of an ultra high-frequency system.
  • the frequency range at which an ultra high-frequency system works permit communication between the tag reader 124' and the RF tag 121' at distances greater than one meter.
  • the integrated circuit 154 in the tag reader 124' is externally powered (not shown).
  • the RF tag 121' in the high-frequency system is substantially similar to the RF tag in the low-frequency system and includes a transistor 147, diode 148, capacitor 149, and integrated circuit 150. However, a dipole antenna 156 is used in place of a coil 146.
  • the tag reader 124' includes an integrated circuit 154, a transceiver 158, and a dipole antenna 157. Because dipole antennas are about 1/2 wavelength, they can discern between RF tags 121' having dipole antennas 156 of different lengths. This electrical mechanism allows the tag reader 124' to discern between different RF tags 121'.
  • one type of filter cartridge can include an RF tag 121' having one length of dipole antenna 156 and hence one signature and another type of filter cartridge can include an RF tag 121' having a different length of dipole antenna 156 and hence a different signature.
  • One possible advantage of this scheme is that equipment can detect if the wrong filter cartridge is installed and disable the equipment until it detects the proper type of filter cartridge.
  • the ultra high-frequency RF tag 121' operates in substantially the same way as the low-frequency tag 121'.
  • the integrated circuit 154 communicates a signal to the transceiver 158, which then emits the signal from the integrated circuit 154 through the dipole antenna 157.
  • the dipole antenna 157 receives the analog signal from the RF tag dipole antenna 156 and the transceiver 158 processes this signal to convert it to a digital signal and inputs that signal to the tag reader integrated circuit 150.
  • the RF tag includes identifying information such as data identifying it as a filter, providing a serial number, and/or providing a date of manufacture.
  • the tag reader detects the identifying information and communicates the identifying information to the programmable circuit.
  • the programmable circuit in turn can generate and record various items of information such as the identifying information, time and date stamps identifying when the tag reader detected the RF tag, and/or time and date stamps identifying when the tag reader lost contact with the RF tag.
  • the programmable circuit can execute certain tasks based on detection of the RF tag and reading the identification information from the RF tag. For example, if the most current time and date stamp becomes too old, the programmable circuit could be programmed to provide a warning to the equipment operator, transmit a signal to a remote location such as maintenance shop or manufacturer, or even disable the equipment on which the filter is mounted.
  • the RF tag itself has writable memory. In this embodiment, the programmable circuit communicates through the RF tag and stores information directly on the RF tag. Examples of such information include various time and date stamps, data regarding fluid pressures (e.g., pressure differentials, pressure drop across the filter v.
  • FIG. 13-21 illustrate yet other possible embodiments of an antenna system for filters.
  • an antenna is internally positioned within the filter assembly and an electrical connector is arranged to connect the internally positioned antenna with a tag reader that is positioned externally to the filter assembly.
  • the RF tag reader is located remotely from the filter assembly.
  • the tag reader is protected from exposure to fluids and other contaminants that pass through or are trapped by the filter.
  • the RF tag reader also can be accessed and even replaces without having to replace or otherwise access the filter assembly.
  • Another advantage is that even through the tag reader is remote from the filter, the antenna is positioned proximal to the RF tag so that there is no metal between the antenna and the RF tag, which minimizes disruption of the electromagnetic field (EMF) radiating between the antenna and the RF tag. It also provides a stronger signal to noise (S/N) ratio. Even when metal or is positioned near the antenna is can effect the pattern of EMF radiating from the antenna and effect the range of the antenna or how far the RF tag can be placed from the antenna and still establish communication there between.
  • EMF electromagnetic field
  • FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate one possible embodiment of a filter assembly
  • the filter assembly includes a filter head 117, a bowl assembly 109, and a filter cartridge 100.
  • Filter head 117 includes an inlet passage having an inner cylindrical portion 132 defined between an outer wall 133 and an inner cylindrical snout 134.
  • a connector 127 is mounted on the outer surface of the filter head 117 and an electrical lead 135, which has two wires, extends through the filter head.
  • the snout 134 and the filter cartridge 100 have an axis 160.
  • the filter assembly 100 has an upper end cap 162 with an annular ring 164 projecting from the top.
  • a groove 166 is formed around the inner diameter of the annular ring 164 and an o-ring 168 or similar type of gasket is positioned within the groove 166.
  • An RF tag 121 is molded into the end cap 162 and positioned within the annular ring 164. In alternative embodiments, the RF tag
  • the RF tag 121 is positioned on the inner or outer surface of the end cap 162.
  • the RF tag 121 is secured to the surface of the end cap 162 with an epoxy and can be entirely encapsulated with epoxy to protect it from the fluid flowing through the filter assembly 100 and other environmental factors.
  • the filter cartridge 100 does not have an upper end cap 162 and the RF tag 121 is secured to the filter media 105 and positioned proximal to the upper end of the filter cartridge 100 so that it is proximal to the snout 134.
  • the inner cylindrical snout 134 has an upper portion 170 and a lower portion 172.
  • the lower portion 172 snap fits to the upper portion 170 by an annular groove 174 defined around the circumference of the lower portion 172 that mates with an annular flange 176 defined around the inner diameter of the upper portion 170.
  • the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 has a radial portion 178 that radially projects from the snout 134. The radial portion 178 opposes the end cap 162 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 is formed with a material such nylon 6 (which is commercially available form BASF under the trademark Capron ), nylon 6/6 (which is commercially available form DuPont under the trademark Zytel), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT, Crastin - DuPont), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS, Ryton - CP Chem), or any other thermoplastic material, thermoset composite or other material that is suitable for a filter application. Additionally, the material may contain a filler as long as the filler does not disrupt the electromagnetic field radiated from the antenna 180.
  • a material such nylon 6 (which is commercially available form BASF under the trademark Capron ), nylon 6/6 (which is commercially available form DuPont under the trademark Zytel), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT, Crastin - DuPont), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS, Ryton - CP Chem), or any other thermoplastic material, thermoset composite
  • An antenna 180 is formed with a spirally wound conductor 182 that is molded into or attached to the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 and at least partially extends in the in the radial portion 178 so that is also opposed the end cap 162 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • the antenna 180 is both symmetrical and positioned on a plane that is orthogonal with respect to the axis 160 and parallel to the upper end cap 162 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • This antenna 180 geometry generates an EMF that is symmetrical to the axis 160.
  • the RF tag 121 is always proximal to the antenna 180 regardless of the angular orientation of the filter cartridge 100 around the axis 160.
  • the wound conductor 182 forming the antenna 180 is a wire molded into the lower portion 172 of the snout 134.
  • the wire is adhered to the surface of the radial portion 178 of the snout 134.
  • the conductor 182 forming the antenna 180 is an electrically conductive trace deposited on a substrate that is molded into the snout 134 or mounted on the surface of the snout 134.
  • the antenna 180 has multiple windings, which increases the strength of the EMF radiating from the antenna and increases the S/N ration in any signal communicated between the RF tag and the antenna 180.
  • the antenna 180 has about 20 or more windings when the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at low frequencies and has about 1 to about 3 windings when the RF tag 121 and tag reader 124 operate at high frequencies.
  • the stronger the EMF field the farther the antenna 180 can be positioned from the antenna 180.
  • the RF tag 121 is positioned and orientated to maximize the energy it absorbs from the EMF radiated from the antenna 180.
  • the length of the conductor forming the antenna 180 is sized to match the frequency at which the RF tag is tuned for communication.
  • the antenna 180 can be further tuned to the RF tag 121 by adjusting the impedance any/or inductance of the antenna conductor 182.
  • a first antenna lead 184 is connected to the outer end of the spiral antenna conductor 182.
  • a second antenna lead 186 is connected to the inner end of the spiral antenna conductor 182.
  • the first antenna lead 184 extends upward to a connector 188.
  • the second antenna lead 186 extends radially to the spiral antenna conductors 182 and then extends upward with the first antenna lead 184 to the connector 188.
  • the connector 188 provides electrical communication between the first and second antenna leads 184 and 186 and the two-wire electrical lead when the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 is snap-fit to the upper portion 170 of the snout 134.
  • FIG 15 illustrates another possible embodiment of a filter assembly 190 that is similar to the filter assembly 159 illustrated in Figures 13 and 14.
  • the filter assembly 190 includes a bowl assembly 109; a filter cartridge 100 having an end cap 162 with an annular ring 164 and an RF tag 121; and a filter head 111 having an inlet passage 103 with a snout 134 with upper and lower portions 170 and 172, an electrical connector 188, and a first and second electrical leads 184 and 186.
  • An antenna conductor 192 forms an antenna molded into the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 and is wrapped around the axis 160. Additionally, the antenna conductor 192 extends longitudinally with respect to the axis 160.
  • FIG. 16 and 17 illustrate another possible embodiment of a filter assembly 198 that is similar to the filter assembly 190 illustrated in Figure 15.
  • the filter assembly 198 includes a bowl assembly 109; a filter cartridge 100 having an end cap 162 with an annular ring 164 and an RF tag 121; and a filter head 111 having an inlet passage 103 with snout 134 having upper and lower portions 170 and 172, an electrical connector 188, and a first and second electrical leads 184 and 186. Additionally, the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 extends into a tubular portion 200 that is concentric to the axis 160 and projects downward into the center volume of the filter cartridge 100.
  • the tubular portion 200 defines a plurality of fluid passages 202 that permit the substantially unrestricted from of fluid through the filter media 105, into the center volume 106, and through the outlet passage 107.
  • a cross member 204 is positioned within the tubular portion 200 of the snout 134 and extends from one side of the inner surface, along a diameter through the center axis 160, and to the opposing side of the inner surface.
  • An antenna 205 is formed with a conductor 206 wound or wrapped around the cross member 204. The antenna windings and its radiating EMF are symmetrical with respect to the axis 160. The opposite ends of the antenna conductor 206 are in electrical communication with the first and second antenna leads 184 and 186, respectively, which are in electrical communication with.
  • the RF tag 121 is located in the filter media 105 so that it is radially aligned with the antenna 205.
  • Figure 18 illustrates another possible embodiment of a filter assembly
  • the filter assembly 208 includes a bowl assembly 109; a filter cartridge 100 having an end cap 162 with an annular ring 164 and an RF tag 121; and a filter head 111 having an inlet passage 103, a snout 134 with upper and lower portions 170 and 172, an electrical connector 188, and a first and second electrical leads 184 and 186.
  • the lower portion 172 of the snout 134 forms a tubular portion 200 that is concentric to the axis 160 and projects downward into the center volume of the filter cartridge 100.
  • An antenna 210 illustrated in detail in Figure 19, is molded into the wall 212 of the tubular portion 200 of the snout 134.
  • the antenna 210 is formed with a conductor 214 coiled in a spiral pattern that winds around a center point on the wall 212 of the tubular portion 200 and hence extends around only a portion of the tubular portion's 200 circumference.
  • the antenna 210 and its EMF are asymmetrical with respect to the axis 160.
  • the opposite ends of the antenna conductor 214 that forms the antenna 210 are in electrical communication with the first and second antenna leads 184 and 186.
  • a portion of the second antenna lead 186 radially extends across the antenna conductor 216.
  • the filter cartridge 100 has a key 218 formed in the upper end cap 162.
  • FIG. 20-21 illustrate another possible embodiment of a filter assembly
  • the filter assembly 222 includes a filter head 111, a bowl assembly 109, and a filter cartridge 100.
  • the RF tag 121 is positioned between the upper end cap 224 of the filter cartridge 100 and the filter media 105.
  • the RF tag 121 has a circular or spiral wound antenna 146 that has a diameter that is about equal to or less than the radial thickness of the filter media 105.
  • Other antenna structures for the RF tag 121 are possible.
  • the RF tag 121 is molded into the end cap 224 itself.
  • the end cap 224 has an annular ring 226 that extends axially and is sized to receive the snout 134 from the filter head 111.
  • An o-ring 228 is positioned to seal the space between the annular ring 226 and the snout 134.
  • An antenna 230 is formed with a spirally wound conductor 232 that is molded into the upper end cap 224. The antenna 230 extends radially with respect to a center axis 160 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • First and second electrodes 234 and 236 are positioned on the upper surface of the upper end cap 224.
  • the first and second conductors 234 and 236 are circular, concentric to one another, and extend around and are centered on the axis 160 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • One end of the antenna conductor 232 is in electrical communication with the first electrode 234, and an opposite end of the antenna conductor 232 is in electrical communication with the second electrode 236.
  • An advantage of the circular conductors 234 and 236 is that the filter cartridge 100 can be loaded into the filter assembly 222 in any rotational orientation and still be in contact with the electrical contacts discussed below.
  • Another advantage of this embodiment is that the antenna 230 for the tag reader and the RF tag 121 are close to one another in proximity and there is no material between them that would shield the RF tag 121 from the antenna 230.
  • An RF tag reader assembly includes an RF tag reader (not shown) that is molded into a housing 238. A pair of leads extends from the RF tag reader and is enclosed in a sheath 240 or other type of conduit. The electrical leads and protective sheath 240 extend through the filter head 111 to a point adjacent the first and second conductors 234 and 236.
  • first electrical contact 242 terminates in a first electrical contact 242 and the other electrical lead terminates in a second electrical contact 244.
  • the first and second contacts 242 and 244 are in electrical contact with the first and second conductors 234 and 236, respectively. Additionally, the first and second electrical contacts 242 and 244 are spring loaded and biased toward the first and second electrical conductors 234 and 236, respectively, which ensures that they remain in electrical contact if there is any variation in the structure of the assembly or if the assembly is subject to any type of impact or other physical shock.
  • the length of the protective sheath 240 can be any desired length so that the housing 238 and the RF tag reader can be located remotely from the filter head 111 at any desired location subject to maintaining adequate electrical signal communication between the antenna 230 and the RF tag reader.
  • the RF tag reader can be positioned into the filter head 111 as illustrated with respect to other exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.
  • Figure 22 illustrates an alternative antenna design for the RF tag reader
  • first and second conductors 246 and 248, respectively, are electrically isolated from one another and extend around the circumference of the snout 134 within the filter conduit arrangement 117 ( Figure 3).
  • the first and second conductors 246 and 248 are in electrical communication with the tag reader 124.
  • a plurality of antennas 250 are intermittently positioned around the circumference of the snout 134. In one possible embodiment there are six antennas 250 equally spaced at about 60° from each other. Other embodiments have a different number of antennas and antennas that are not equally spaced.
  • Each antenna 250 has a first end 252 electrically connected to the first conductor 246 and a second end 254 electrically connected to the second conductor 248.
  • the first and second conductors 246 and 248 provide common nodes for the plurality of antennas 250 so that antennas 250 are electrically parallel to one another.
  • Each antenna 250 has a midsection 258 that extends to a position adjacent to a lower end 256 of the snout 134.
  • the RF tag 121 attached to the upper end cap 114 is closely positioned to the midsection 258 of one or two of the antennas 250 depending on the angular orientation of the filter cartridge 100. This close proximity enables electrical coupling between one or two of the antennas 250 and the RF tag 121 regardless of the orientation of the filter cartridge 100 when it is loaded in the filter assembly 90.
  • the antennas 250 and first and second conductors 246 and 248 are mounted on an antenna substrate and protected by an over laminate liner or other film.
  • the antenna substrate has an adhesive backing that can be attached to the surface of the snout 134 in a manner similar to a sticker.
  • the antennas 250 and the first and second conductors 246 and 248 are covered with an epoxy resin or other material that protects it from fluid and other environmental elements.
  • Figure 23 illustrates another alternative antenna design for the RF tag reader 124.
  • the RF tag reader 124 and integrated antenna are positioned along the center axis 260 of the snout 134 and the filter cartridge 100.
  • the tag reader 124 is positioned proximal to the lower end 256 of the snout 134 and is supported or held in position along the center axis 260 of the snout 134 by a plurality of spokes 262 that extend to the tag reader 124 to the inner walls or other appropriate portion of the snout 134. If the tag reader 124 is encased with an epoxy resin or other material, the spokes 262 extend from the encasing material to the inner wall of the snout 134.
  • the electrical leads 135 extend from the tag reader 124, along the axis of the snout 134, and to the connector 127. In one possible embodiment, there are three spokes 262 that are intermittently spaced at about 120°.
  • This embodiment secures the tag reader 124 along the center axis 260 and provides a passage (defined between the spokes 262) from fluid to flow from the center volume 106 of the bowl assembly 109 and into the outlet passage 107 of the filter conduit arrangement 117.
  • An advantage of having the tag reader 124 and antenna positioned along the axis 206 is that it is centrally located and will have the same position relative to the RF tag 121 regardless of the angular orientation of the filter cartridge 100.
  • Figure 24 and 25 illustrate an alternative embodiment for locating the RF tag 121 on the filter assembly 100.
  • the upper end cap 114 defines a center hole 264 sized to engage the snout 134 of the filter conduit arrangement 117.
  • the center hole 264 is centered along the center axis 265 of the filter cartridge 100, which is colinear to the center axis of the snout 134 when the filter cartridge 100 is loaded in the filter assembly 90.
  • a cup 266 defines a cavity 268 and has an end wall 270 that is orthogonal to the center axis 265.
  • the RF tag 121 is positioned within the cavity 268, and is positioned against and centered on end wall 270.
  • the cavity 268 is filled or potted with an epoxy resin or other material to protect the RF tag 121 from fluid and other environmental conditions.
  • the RF tag 121 also can be adhered to the cup 266 before the cavity 268 is potted or mounted on an antenna substrate and protected by an over laminate liner or other film.
  • spokes 272 there are three spokes 272 that are intermittently spaced at about 120°. This embodiment secures the RF tag 121 along the center axis 264 and provides a passage from fluid to flow from the center volume 106 of the bowl assembly into the outlet passage 107 of the filter conduit arrangement 117.
  • the cup 266 is replaced with a support structure such as a flat disk that is supported by the spokes 272.
  • the RF tag 121 is mounted on either the top or bottom surface of the support structure.
  • the RF tag 121 is mounted to the support structure with an adhesive.
  • the RF tag 121 is mounted on an antenna substrate and protected by an over laminate liner or other film.
  • the RF tag 121 is also covered with an epoxy resin or other material to protect it from fluid and other environmental conditions.
  • An advantage of having the RF tag 121 positioned along the axis 265 is that it is centrally located and will have the same position relative to the tag reader 124 regardless of the angular orientation of the filter cartridge 100. Additionally, if the tag reader 124 is positioned as illustrated in Figure 23 and described herein, the RF tag 121 and the tag reader 124 will be positioned close together when the filter cartridge 100 is loaded in the filter assembly 90, which minimizes the distance between and maximizes the coupling between the RF tag 121 and the tag reader 124.
  • Figures 26 and 27 illustrate another possible embodiment of the RF tag 121 mounted on the filter cartridge 100.
  • an RF tag 121 and antenna are mounted on the inner surface of the upper end cap 114 and are positioned between the upper end cap 114 and the filter media 105.
  • An antenna 274 has first and second ends 275 and 278 in electrical communication with the RF tag 121.
  • the antenna 274 is annular and extends around the central axis 265 of the filter cartridge 100.
  • the antenna 274 for the RF tag 121 extends or is wrapped around the central axis 265 a plurality of times in a spiral pattern.
  • the RF tag 121 and/or antenna 274 are molded into the upper end cap 114 or are mounted on the outer surface of the upper end cap 114.
  • the antenna 274 and the RF tag 121 are mounted on an antenna substrate and protected by an over laminate liner or other film.
  • the antenna substrate has an adhesive backing that can be attached to the surface of the upper end cap 114 in a manner similar to a sticker.
  • the RF tag 121 and antenna 274 are mounted on a surface of the upper end cap 114 with an adhesive and are covered with an epoxy resin or other material to protect them from fluid or other environmental elements.
  • the RF tag 121 and antenna 274 can be mounted at any suitable location of the upper end cap 114 or upper portion of the filter cartridge 100.
  • 121 and/or antenna 274 also can be orientated either orthogonal or parallel to the central axis 265.
  • the various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the invention. Those , skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made to the present invention without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Filtering Of Dispersed Particles In Gases (AREA)

Abstract

Appareil de filtre (90) comprenant une cartouche de filtre (100) incluant un média de filtrage et une étiquette RF (121) connectée au média de filtrage (105). Une disposition d’antenne fonctionne et est connectée à une disposition de conduit de filtre (117). La disposition d’antenne comprend un conducteur d’antenne en communication électrique avec un connecteur (127). Le connecteur est disposé pour connecter électriquement l’antenne au lecteur d’étiquette (124) à distance de la disposition de conduit de filtre.
EP05767640A 2004-05-20 2005-05-20 Ensemble de filtre possédant une antenne Withdrawn EP1763393A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US57286704P 2004-05-20 2004-05-20
US66066305P 2005-03-11 2005-03-11
PCT/US2005/017647 WO2005113112A1 (fr) 2004-05-20 2005-05-20 Ensemble de filtre possédant une antenne

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1763393A1 true EP1763393A1 (fr) 2007-03-21

Family

ID=35094527

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05767640A Withdrawn EP1763393A1 (fr) 2004-05-20 2005-05-20 Ensemble de filtre possédant une antenne

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1763393A1 (fr)
JP (1) JP2007537870A (fr)
WO (1) WO2005113112A1 (fr)

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JP2007537870A (ja) 2007-12-27

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