Patent Grant
8926845
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to an additive dispersing filter and method of dispersing an additive to a fluid passing through the filter.
Many different types of fluid filters are known. Most such filters use a mechanical or ‘screening’ type of filtration, with a porous filter element disposed therein. The oil is repeatedly cycled through the filter element to remove impurities.
In the oil filtration art, it is well known that normal operation of an internal combustion engine, particularly a diesel engine, results in the formation of contaminants. These contaminants include, among others, soot, which is formed from incomplete combustion of the fossil fuel, and acids that result from combustion. These contaminants are typically introduced into the lubricating oil during engine operation, and tend to increase oil viscosity and generate unwanted engine deposits, leading to increased engine wear.
The conventional solution to these problems has been to place various additives into lubricating oils, during their initial formulation. To combat soot-related problems, many conventional lubricating oils include dispersants that resist agglomeration of soot therein. These work well for a short period, but may become depleted. Additionally, due to the solubility and chemical stability limits of these dispersants in the oil, the service lives of the lubricating oil and the oil filter are less than optimal.
To counteract the effects of acidic combustion products, many conventional motor oils include neutralizing additives known as over-based detergents. These are a source of TBN (total base number), which is a measure of the quantity of the over-based detergent in the oil. The depletion of the TBN is an important limiting factor for many internal combustion engines, particularly for heavy-duty applications with diesel engines.
To improve engine protection and to combat other problems, conventional lubricating oils often include one or more further additives, which may be corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, friction modifiers, pour point depressants, detergents, viscosity index improvers, anti-wear agents, and/or extreme pressure additives. While the inclusion of these further additives may be beneficial, the amount and concentration of these additives, using conventional methods, are limited by the ability of lubricating oils to suspend these additives, as well as by the chemical stability of these additives in the oil.
While the known filters are usable for their intended purposes, the release of supplemental additives from the known filters often takes place either immediately after installation or more rapidly than is needed for protecting the oil. Subsequently, after some time has elapsed, there may be little or no additive left in the filter.
Another problem with many of the known filter designs is that beneficial additives are added to the oil before the oil is mechanically filtered through a filter element. As a result, when the oil is mechanically filtered, some of the beneficial additives that have just been added may be immediately filtered out.
Moreover, recent emission regulations require heavy/medium duty diesel engines to run at conditions that deteriorate the crank case lube oil additive package at an accelerated rate. This leads to a reduction in the number of miles a truck can travel before the crank case oil needs to be changed, causing increase in downtime and operating costs of the truck, and thus reducing profits for the owner.
Therefore it is desirable to provide a filter having an additive incorporated therein, wherein the additive is slowly released over the useful life of the filter. It is also desirable to provide an oil filter which could extend the useful life of engine oil so as to allow a user to extend the time interval between oil changes of an engine.
Additive dispersing filters and methods of additive dispersant are provided. Exemplary embodiments of the present invention are directed to a method for dispersing an additive from an additive cartridge disposed in a housing of an oil filter is provided herein, the method includes using stagnation pressure to disperse the additive from the additive cartridge; and regulating a flow rate of the additive from the additive cartridge by restricting an inlet opening of an outlet path of the additive cartridge, wherein a portion of the outlet path is formed in a surface of a first piece of a two piece connector providing fluid communication between and an interior and an exterior of the additive cartridge.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention an additive cartridge for dispersing an additive within a filter housing is provided, the additive cartridge comprising: a housing defining a receiving area for receipt of the additive; a fluid inlet path through a wall of the housing, the fluid inlet path providing a means for increasing a pressure within the receiving area, the fluid inlet path having an inlet opening disposed adjacent to an outer wall portion of the housing; and a fluid outlet path through the wall of the housing, the fluid outlet path providing a means for dispersing the additive from the receiving area when the pressure within the receiving area exceeds a predetermined value, the fluid outlet path having an outlet opening disposed adjacent to the outer wall portion of the housing, the outlet opening being covered by a shroud configured to deflect fluid flowing in a first direction away from the outlet opening and the inlet opening of the fluid inlet path is positioned to receive fluid flowing in the first direction; and wherein fluid flow of the additive through the fluid outlet path is controlled by varying an inlet opening of the fluid outlet path by forming a portion of the fluid outlet path in a surface of a first piece of a two piece connector fluidly coupling the an interior and an exterior of the additive cartridge.
In accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention a filter is provided, the filter comprising: a filter housing defining an inlet fluid opening and an outlet fluid opening, the inlet fluid opening and the outlet fluid opening defining a fluid path through the filter; a filter element disposed inside the filter housing, the filter element being disposed in the flow path such that fluid flows through the filter element; and an additive cartridge for dispersing an additive within the filter housing, the additive cartridge comprising: a housing defining a receiving area for receipt of the additive; a fluid inlet path through a wall of the housing, the fluid inlet path providing a means for increasing a pressure within the receiving area, the fluid inlet path having an inlet opening disposed adjacent to an outer wall portion of the housing; and a fluid outlet path through the wall of the housing, the fluid outlet path providing a means for dispersing the additive from the receiving area when the pressure within the receiving area exceeds a predetermined value, the fluid outlet path having an outlet opening disposed adjacent to the outer wall portion of the housing, the outlet opening being covered by a shroud configured to deflect fluid flowing in a first direction away from the outlet opening and the inlet opening of the fluid inlet path is positioned to receive fluid flowing in the first direction; and wherein fluid flow of the additive through the fluid outlet path is controlled by varying an inlet opening of the fluid outlet path by forming a portion of the fluid outlet path in a surface of a first piece of a two piece connector fluidly coupling the an interior and an exterior of the additive cartridge.
The above-described and other features are appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.
The present application is related to the following patent applications, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto: Ser. No. 10/352,344, filed Jan. 27, 2003; Ser. No. 09/867,973, filed May 30, 2001; Ser. No. 09/566,034 filed May 8, 2000; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/863,581, filed Jun. 8, 2004; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/488,466, filed Jul. 18, 2006; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/533,649 filed Sep. 20, 2006; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/845,042, filed Aug. 25, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/845,043, filed Aug. 25, 2007; U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/846,265, filed Aug. 28, 2007; U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/889,728, filed Feb. 13, 2007; U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/910,772 filed Apr. 9, 2007; U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/985,193 filed Nov. 2, 2007; and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/030,595 filed Feb. 13, 2008, the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated herein, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the described filters, cartridges, and processes, and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein, are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a filter and method of making a filter is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment the filter will comprise an additive cartridge for providing a means for introducing an additive into oil passing through the filter. In addition, an additive cartridge and method of making the same are also disclosed wherein the cartridge provides a means for retaining an additive for dispersement into the oil over a period of time.
In development of a filter used to extend oil changes a means is required to continuously disperse a small quantity of liquid additive over an extended period of time. This is very difficult to get accurate dispense rates due to the extremely low volumetric rate in the filter or additive cartridge. Exemplary embodiments are directed a means for providing accurate dispense rates for a liquid additive.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention the additive cartridge employs the fluid velocity through the oil filter to create a stagnation pressure in the additive container with a controlled diameter outlet tube of sufficient length at another point in the container to create a controlled release of additive based on the stagnation pressure driving flow through the tube and out of the additive cartridge. The flow can be calculated using Darcy's equation and adjusted based upon to inner diameter (ID) or length of the tube.
To create stagnation pressure a tube or inlet fluid path with an opening facing the fluid flow is located in the flow stream. The tube opening is placed in a location that exhibits the intended rate of flow to get the desired stagnation pressure. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment the tube opening is placed equidistant between the body wall and additive housing to be in a more laminar velocity flow path. The opening is also placed far enough below the additive housing edge to eliminate turbulence. The inlet opening of the inlet fluid path is above the additive level so drainage during off times does not occur however, the inlet could be placed at other locations if a shut off valve is used. In one exemplary embodiment, a spring biased one way valve is used wherein the valve only opens when a sufficient pressure is generated at one end of the valve. In addition, the outlet opening of the inlet tube or path is disposed above the level of the additive so that during engine shut down or when no fluid is flowing through the filter, the pressure between the additive cartridge and the interior of the filter housing can equalize without dispersing the additive from the additive cartridge.
An outlet tube or outlet flow path with an inlet opening is placed at the bottom of the additive housing and as the additive is displaced a portion of the tube may extend above the additive level. Again the tube could be preferentially capped during no flow conditions and located at other locations. Of course, other tube configurations are contemplated to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In one, exemplary embodiment, a shield covers the outlet tube creating an iso-static pressure region so no additional pressure areas are created.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment and for the additive displacement to occur flow is directed through filter inlet openings and down the side wall between the additive housing and the filter housing wall causing a known fluid velocity. Knowing the velocity and the density of the flowing liquid or oil the stagnation pressure can be calculated. The stagnation pressure creates a differential pressure across the outlet tube and flow can be calculated based upon pressure, diameter, length and viscosity using Darcy's equation.
Referring to
The housing also includes a base plate 24 sealingly attached to the case or housing. A foraminous center tube may, optionally, be provided within the filter housing to supportively reinforce the mechanical filter element thereon.
The housing base plate includes a plurality of inlet ports 28 formed therethrough and arranged in a circular pattern. The base plate also includes a central outlet port 30. The outlet port has a plurality of female threads formed therein, to allow rotatable mounting of the filter on an externally threaded hollow tubular fitting on an engine block (not shown). An annular external seal or gasket 32 fits engagingly into a groove formed at the bottom surface of the base plate, to resist oil leakage outwardly from the base of the filter. A gasket 36 is disposed between additive cartridge or basket 18 and the mechanical filter element.
In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention an outer periphery of the additive cartridge is spaced from an inner surface of the housing such that the area of the fluid flowing past the additive cartridge is known and the velocity of the fluid passing past the inlet opening of the inlet flow path of the additive cartridge can be calculated.
Referring now to
An entrance port or inlet opening 62 provides an opening that extends through an entrance channel or inlet path 70 through exterior wall 44. Similarly, an exit port or outlet opening 64 provides an opening that extends through an exit channel or outlet path 72 in exterior wall 44. A shroud or canopy 65 is positioned over outlet port 64 to create an iso-static pressure region so no additional pressure areas are created. In addition, the canopy 65 is also configured to have an opening or openings 63, which prevent negative pressures in the oil filter housing from sucking or pulling the additive from the additive chamber which will result in undesirable dispersement of the additive or uncontrolled flow rate. Both entrance port or inlet opening 62 and exit port or outlet opening 64 provide an inlet path or pathway for fluid and/or liquid in interior chamber 14 to enter chamber 42 of housing 40. Preferably, entrance port or inlet opening 62 is located below a top edge 48 of housing 40 on exterior wall 44 to minimize turbulence from the fluids flowing through the filter.
In accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention additive cartridge 18 can be provided with entrance and exit ports 62, 64 as an integrated one-piece structure, or alternatively, as a two-piece (or more) structure(s), in which the pieces are interconnected via a connection. The connection can be a threaded connection sealed with adhesive, snap-fit, ultra-sonic welded, or spin-welded, as desired.
In an exemplary embodiment, entrance port 62 is provided as an inlet tube or opening or pitot tube 68 that faces the inlet fluid flow of the filter. In this embodiment, inlet tube or opening tube 68 provides a fluid conduit for liquid in interior chamber 14 to flow through exterior wall 44 to an outlet port 66 that opens into chamber 42. In the present exemplary embodiment, outlet port 66 is disposed above the additive level so that drainage during off times does not occur. Here, the pressure differential between the inner chamber of the additive cartridge and the inner housing of the fluid filter can equalize through reverse fluid flow back through the inlet path without dispersing more additive during engine shut down.
In other exemplary embodiments, outlet port 66 can be disposed beneath or at the additive level if a shut off valve is utilized. In this embodiment, the shut off valve would cover outlet port or outlet opening 66 and provide a means for allowing fluid to travel into the housing in one direction only. Preferably, the length and/or diameter of inlet tube or opening tube 68 can be selected to take advantage of the fluid pressure generated by the liquid flowing through filter 10 and to create a controlled release of additive based on the stagnation pressure driving flow through an outlet path of the additive cartridge in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
In exemplary embodiments, an inlet fluid path (e.g., the fluid path between entrance port 62 and port 66) can comprise a “U” shaped or “L” or other shaped geometry to connect entrance port 62 to outlet port 66 through entrance channel or inlet path 70 and other necessary fluid path conduits. In this manner, inlet tube 68 will provide entrance channel or path 70, with an outer leg portion that opens to the inlet fluid flow of the filter through entrance port 62 between the additive housing and the filter housing wall, and an inner leg portion that opens to the chamber 42 through outlet port 66 into the air pocket above the additive level in additive chamber 42.
By connecting the outlet port of the inner leg of a U-tube shaped or “L” or other shaped inlet tube in the pressure in the air pocket area above the additive level in the additive chamber, the initial release of additive into the liquid flow can be more effectively controlled. Static pressure and flow test results in exemplary embodiments have indicated that the use stagnation pressure created by the fluid flow of the fluid flowing through the filter to create pressure in chamber 42, can reduce the initial release of additive by 50% or more. For instance, in one exemplary embodiment, and by controlling the orifice or inlet opening of the outlet path was found to reduce the initial additive release from range of about 20-30% of the total additive to less than 10% of the total additive.
Therefore, in exemplary embodiments of the present invention in which an inlet fluid path is used to create a stagnation pressure in the additive cartridge, the amount of supplemental additives will be less likely to be immediately filtered out of the engine oil upon initial release and can provide for a longer-lasting slow-release of additive, thereby extending the useful life of engine oil so as to allow a user to extend the time interval between oil changes of an engine.
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention an outlet tube or path 74 extends from an inlet port or opening 76 located beneath the additive level within chamber 42 through channel 72 in the housing wall. In an exemplary embodiment, outlet tube 74 extends adjacent exterior wall 44 to an inlet port 76 that is proximate to the bottom of chamber 42. In other exemplary embodiments, outlet tube or path 76 could be disposed elsewhere. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, a shut off valve is used with outlet tube 74 that can be closed during no flow conditions.
Inlet tube or path 68 is disposed in a location that exhibits the intended rate of fluid flow to achieve the desired stagnation pressure. In an exemplary embodiment, inlet tube or path 68 can be disposed equidistant between the filter housing 12 and cartridge housing 40 so as to receive fluid flow having a laminar velocity. Inlet tube or path 68 and entrance port or inlet opening 62 can be provided in a variety of configurations including a round, oval, flattened configuration, or configured to conform to the space between the exterior of the filter element and the interior of the housing.
As described above, the opposite end of inlet tube or inlet path 68 from entrance port or inlet opening 62 extends to an outlet port 66 that opens into chamber 42. In the illustrated embodiment, inlet tube or opening tube 68 extends from entrance port 62 a desired length adjacent to exterior wall 44. The fluid flowing into the chamber is used to create a controlled release of additive based on the stagnation pressure driving fluid flow through the outlet tube or outlet flow path. In one exemplary embodiment it is preferable that the incoming liquid mix sufficiently with the additive contained within chamber 42. Adequate mixing of the liquid and additive can be promoted by increasing the period of time that the liquid remains in chamber 42, as well as by increasing the distance that the incoming liquid must flow in the chamber before exiting out an exit port or opening 64.
During operation of the present exemplary embodiment, the differential density between the liquid and the additive can be utilized to achieve a more uniform release rate over time. Generally, the liquid additive is denser than the liquid flowing through the filter. Consequently, the liquid being filtered tends to “float” on the additive phase. Truncating outlet port or opening 66 near the top of the additive vessel, and extending outlet tube or flow path 74 proximate to the bottom of chamber 42 takes advantage of this property. During operation, the liquid enters chamber 42 through outlet opening 66 of the inlet path, floats, and remains (largely, with exception of the slow diffusion between phases) at the top of the chamber or layered on the liquid additive. As more of the liquid enters through opening 66, the entering liquid displaces pure additive and pushes it out outlet tube or outlet path 74 in nearly full-concentration to yield a very steady injection of active ingredient into the system.
Exit port or outlet opening 64 is spaced lower than opening 62 on exterior wall 44 and, in the illustrated embodiment, centrally positioned in exterior wall 44 to extend centrally into chamber 42. It will be understood, however, that outlet opening 64 can be positioned as desired in exterior wall 44 to extend into and/or through any portion of chamber 42. As illustrated in the present exemplary embodiment, outlet opening 64 leads into an outlet tube 74 extending into chamber 42. Outlet tube 74 provides a conduit between chamber 42 and exit port 64. As discussed above a shield or shroud covers opening 64 that is in fluid communication with inlet opening 76 of outlet tube 74 to create an isostatic pressure region to ensure that no additional pressure areas are created.
In an exemplary embodiment, exit port 64 can provide fluid communication between between the liquid additive in chamber 42 via outlet tube 74 and ultimately central outlet port 30 for liquid and additive that was initially located in chamber 42 as well as the filter and is entering outlet path 80 as it exits the filter. Thereafter the filtered and additized liquid flows from outlet path 80 into the device filter 10 is secured to and then back into the filter, which can used in any one of a recirculating fuel system, coolant, oil, or lubricant system, or a single-pass fuel system.
Optionally, entrance port 62 and/or exit port 64 can be sealed with a soluble seal. This allows filter 10 to be storage stable, and in particular, this can inhibit loss of activity and/or volume of the additive in chamber 42. In use, a liquid flowing through filter 10 dissolves the seal material, allowing the liquid to enter into chamber 42 and mix with the additive therein. Alternatively, the soluble seal can be composed of a low melting material that melts when exposed to the normal operating temperatures of the fuel flowing through the filter. In one exemplary embodiment, the liquid is an organic base fluid such as fuel, oil, or a lubricant, and the soluble seal is composed of a material such as a wax that is soluble in organic solvents.
In use, the liquid to be filtered flows in through inlet ports 28, and from there into housing chamber 14. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the liquid flows down between filter housing 12 and cartridge housing 40 into inlet tube or opening tube 68. The liquid flowing through a filter such as that of
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention a method for determining the configuration of the inlet opening of the outlet path of the additive cartridge is provided below.
This analysis represents the design for a specific filter design application and is considered to be non-limiting in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Other filter designs, flow rates, tube diameters, and additive quantities and characteristics will be different depending on the engine parameters and other constraints.
Example Filter Design
Average flow rate through single filter at average speed of 60 mph-13.25 gpm.
Calculated average fluid velocity flowing past stagnation tube −2.22 ft/sec.
The fluid velocity can be calculated by knowing the area between the additive cartridge housing and the inner surface of the filter housing it is secured in, the flow rate of the fluid or oil passing through the filter can then be used to calculate the velocity of the fluid using known principles or formulas to calculate the velocity of the fluid passing through the filter.
A non-limiting example is produced below:
In one exemplary embodiment it is desirable to release all the additive from the chamber into the oil stream in 33,000 miles of engine use. With an average speed of 60 mph this equates to releasing all the additive in approximately 550 hours.
Final tube diameter of the outlet tube is selected for 0.015 inches inner diameter (ID) to account for variations. Accordingly, the inlet opening or inner diameter opening of the outlet tube is 0.015 inches for this example.
Increase in oil change mileage can be determined based on cross-over point of TBN (total base number) and TAN (total acid number) lines or when TBN level reaches 3.
The square points and lines referred to as baseline represent oil sample analysis from engines with a non-additized filter, wherein the filled squares are TBN readings and the empty squares are TAN readings. The diamond points and lines referred to as additized oil filter represent oil sample analysis from engines utilizing the additive filter of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, wherein the filled diamonds are TBN readings and the empty diamonds are TAN readings. The mileage for the crossover point or level where the TBN reaches 3 is significantly higher with the additized oil filter of exemplary embodiments invention. Also, the TAN number of the baseline sample has a much higher slope thus, the TAN number increases quicker with than the oil with the additized filter in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
The below data illustrates one non-limiting desired or calculated additive flow rate using an additive dispersement device in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
Referring now to
Additionally, a metering window 152 is provided at the bottom of dividing wall 148 to allow the additives of the second chamber to replenish the first chamber as they are dispersed from metering opening 150 during usage of the filter. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment the housing is filled with an additive preferably liquid in form and the top is secured to the housing and then the same is inverted (see
Metering opening 150 and metering window 152 can both be sealed with an oil soluble material, which dissolves when the filter is used. In one exemplary embodiment, the oil soluble material may be a wax or, if applicable, the oil soluble material may comprise the additive disposed in the chambers 142 and 144 if the additive is a non-viscous material (for example, a gel).
In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention chambers 142 and 144 are filed with at least one liquid additive. For example, in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, one additive can be an antioxidant and the other can be an over based detergent.
Of course, other additives are contemplated in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. In addition, housing 140 may be configured to have more than two chambers and multiple metering windows to allow additives to pass between the chambers.
In non-limiting exemplary embodiments, the additives can be liquid in form, and the oil soluble sealing material over the metering opening 150 and in an alternative embodiment a wax may be positioned over the metering window 152, if necessary. In accordance with an exemplary embodiment the sealant can be a wax that melts away during use thereby uncovering the metering opening and the metering window. In other words, when the engine oil reaches operational temperature, the oil becomes hot enough to melt the wax so then the additives can be dispersed into the oil. As illustrated in
The additive composition includes one or more additives which may be selected from the group including basic conditioners, corrosion inhibitors, metal deactivators, antioxidants, dispersants, friction modifiers, oil stabilizers, pour point depressants, detergents, viscosity index improvers, anti-wear agents, extreme pressure additives, mixtures of the above additives, and/or other known beneficial additives.
The basic conditioner of the additive cartridge, where used, is preferably a basic salt selected from the group consisting of calcium carbonate, potassium carbonate, potassium bicarbonate, aluminum dihydroxy sodium carbonate, magnesium oxide, magnesium carbonate, zinc oxide, sodium bicarbonate, sodium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, and mixtures thereof.
Of course, other compositions may be used as the additive(s). The material selected for the cartridge shell and cap is preferred to be a material which remains stable in a hot oil environment. Some exemplary materials are metals such as steel and oil-tolerant plastics such as, for example, polyacetals and glass filled Nylon (polyamide) for the shell and cap.
The additive cartridges described in the exemplary embodiments above allow the beneficial additive composition to be slowly released into the oil, thereby conditioning the oil in a metered manner over time.
By incorporating into the lube filter the needed additives, to reinforce the ones that are depleted, the lube filter can help extend the effective life of the oil back to pre-2002 emission regulation intervals and beyond. This is done by storing the required additive(s) in a storage basket(s) or other equivalent devices that reside inside the oil filter. The basket(s) can be located in the center tube portion of the mechanically active filter, above or below the mechanically active filter element or any combination thereof. The basket(s) may have a single or multiple pockets that can store the required additive(s). Each pocket will have a single or multiple holes to control the release rate of the additives that reside in each respective pocket. The number, size and location of the holes will be used to control the release rate of the additive(s). By properly controlling the release rate of the additive the effectiveness of the additives can be enhanced. A sensor may also be incorporated into the dome of the filter that will monitor oil condition and provide real-time feedback to the owner or operator of the truck.
The additive baskets would preferably be made from injection molded plastic. After the basket is molded the metering holes will be plugged with an oil soluble material capable of withstanding production and storage conditions, but also being able to release during operation of the truck to allow the release of additives within the given pockets. In production, after the metering holes are plugged the additive can be filled into each respective pocket. Once the additives have been put into the pocket the basket will be completely sealed and is ready for assembly into the lube filter. The basket can be sealed by a gasket with adhesive on one side or a cap that is vibration welded, spin welded or glued to the basket housing. After the additive basket is assembled into the lube filter, the lube filter is seamed up providing the final product. The final product will fit the specified applications with no modification to mounting parameters and will be installed in the same manner traditional lube filters are installed.
Referring now to
In the present exemplary embodiment, as shown in the Figures, a separately molded connector 221 defines portions of the inlet and outlet fluid paths, and outlet tube 274 (e.g., metal or otherwise) is integrally molded with the connector wherein outlet tube 274 seals to outlet port 276 to provide a portion of the outlet fluid path. Moreover, connector 221 and housing 240 are configured so that once connector 221 is sealed within housing 240 via a snap fit or press fit arrangement with O-rings, sealants or other sealing means, opening 266 is located proximate to the top of the additive housing to be in fluid communication with an air chamber located above the additive level in additive chamber 242 or a portion of housing 240 not having additive disposed therein. Again, a “U” shaped inlet path is defined by opening 262, inlet channel 270 and opening 266 is provided although other configurations are contemplated in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Once again, the opening 266 is disposed above the initial additive level in the additive chamber to allow for pressure equalization without additive dispersement during engine shut down.
In another alternative exemplary embodiment, the shroud does not have any openings 263 and the shroud is in fact configured to create an iso-static pressure region in order to provide an additional suction force to pull the additive out of the outlet opening of the outlet path.
In still another alternative exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that the inlet opening of the inlet path and the outlet opening of the outlet path can be located in opening 80 and the filtered fluid provides the stagnation pressure. Of course and in this embodiment, the inlet opening of the inlet path will need to be located to be facing the fluid flow.
Referring now to
In these embodiments a pre-filter 401 is located within the additive cartridge 318. The use of a pre-filter is desirable since during the manufacture of the additive cartridge 318 a cap or cover 382 is vibration welded to the housing 340 after the cartridge has been filled with an additive. In one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the liquid additive is released through a tube 374 having a 0.015 inch inner diameter opening and the tube itself is 1 to 1.3 inches long, of course, sizes greater or less than the aforementioned ranges are contemplated to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
During the aforementioned welding process very fine strands of contaminant are generated some of which are in the range of 0.001 inches in diameter and 0.030 inches long. During release of the additive through the tube 374 some of these strands may become lodged in the tube and slow or stop the flow of additive thereby creating a defect.
During the manufacturing process of vibration welding the plastic cover on the basket after it has been filled with additive these very fine strands of contaminant are generated again, some in the range of 0.001 inches in diameter and 0.030 inches long.
By adding a pre-filter such as an open cell foam filter or reticulated foam filter 401 or a fine mesh screen 501 or any other equivalent material surrounding the tube, the additive is filtered prior to reaching the tube thus, any contaminant strands are captured by the pre-filter.
The design of the foam pre-filter is unique in that it is in one non-limiting embodiment, rectangular in design and it has a rectangular opening 403 and the rectangular inner dimension (ID) of opening 403 matches the molded surface 405 surrounding the tube assembly for the inner dimension (ID) seal. The pore size of the foam can be selected to trap the fine strands without affecting the flow rate of the additive though the tube after it has been filtered by the pre-filter. In one non-limiting embodiment, the foam is reticulated polyurethane. Of course, other equivalent materials and configurations are contemplated to be within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention.
Another unique design feature is that the rectangular ID of opening 403 is open on both ends. The ID of one end sealing to the tube assembly as previous mentioned. The other end however is compressed against the basket cover 382 during the vibration welding assembly process and as shown in the cross-sectional views of
In still another alternative exemplary embodiment and since the cost of the metering tube is relatively expensive due to the processes required to control the ID of the tube. A least expensive design of a precision tube 374 would make the product more cost competitive in the market.
Plastic molded components with special features can typically be less expensive to produce than fabricated metal components. However, it is typically not possible to mold a 0.015 ID, 1 to 1.3 inches long passage in a molded part due to the very thin core that would be required which would have little support strength in the molding process.
In order to solve the problem a two piece molded component could be made, wherein the completed two piece molded part would exactly replace the existing molded part that is constructed by insert molding the stainless steel metering tube.
In order to solve the problem a two piece molded component and in exemplary embodiment and referring now to
As illustrated in
Similar to the previous embodiments, the inlet fluid path connects two ports through a channel or inlet path partially defined by portion 766 molded in surface 777 and the fluid outlet path from the additive cartridge connects two ports through a channel or inlet path partially defined by portion 776 molded in surface 783.
As illustrated, in at least
In other words and for ease of molding a small passageway having a 0.015″ ID, 1 to 1.3 inches long the aforementioned two piece molded component is utilized wherein the first part 721a has a channel or groove molded in a surface and the second part when mated to the first part provides a surface that closes the channel. Accordingly, one half of the molded part would incorporate the 0.015 diameter opening (or other required size) the other half would close off the opening and when attached together would form the desired small diameter passage at whatever length desired. These molds would be easy to construct as the ID of the tube would be a small protrusion on the mold.
Thus, the portions of the fluid paths in surfaces 777 and 783 can be easily formed by a plastic injection molding process or any other suitable technique.
In addition, the connector in one non-limiting exemplary embodiment, will be formed with a flange or ledge portion 791 configured to provide a supporting surface for the foam pre-filter of the previous embodiments. In one embodiment flange 791 is a stop/seal for the pre-filter. Still further, the location of the flange on the part may vary so that the same sized pre-filter can be used for the different length flow tubes. Here the opening 403 of the pre-filter is configured to receive the outer periphery of the portions of the two-piece molded component forming the inlet path for the additive. Of course, numerous other variations are within the scope of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Accordingly, the aforementioned designs could also incorporate various features including the filtering device of foam or mesh to cover or surround the opening of the metering tube.
Also, and as in the previous embodiments, the connector will in one non-limiting embodiment have a pair of mounting features 795 configured to engage tab portions of the additive cartridge.
Referring now to
Once again, components performing similar or analogous functions are labeled in multiples of 100. As illustrated in
In this embodiment, each part 821a and 821b comprise a portion of the fluid outlet path and thus when the two parts are attached together the path is formed therebetween. In addition and as illustrated, part 821b will have a plurality of members 890 configured to receive and engage a peripheral edge portion of part 821a such that the same may be secured to part 821b in a “snap-fit” arrangement. Still further, part 821b is configured to have a pair of protrusions 891 that extend away from surface 883 proximate to portion 867 of fluid inlet outlet 876.
Accordingly and when part 821a is snap-fit into part 821b protrusions 891 are received within complementary grooves or angled portions 893 located in surface 877 proximate to portion 865 of inlet path 876 formed by parts 821a and 821b when the same are snap-fitted together.
In addition to or as an alternative to the snap-fit securement of part 821a 821b, the first piece or part is secured to the second piece or part in any suitable fashion that ensures that the channel or outlet path remain clear after the two parts are secured together non-limiting examples of such securement processes include adhesives, sonic welding, vibration welding, heat staking, equivalents of any of the aforementioned and combinations thereof. Also shown in the attached FIGS. is that each part has a portion configured to align with a portion of the outlet path that passes through connector 821. In the illustrated embodiment, this portion is configured to extend away from the generally straight portions of portions 865 and 867.
In other words and for ease of molding a small passageway having a 0.015″ ID, 1 to 1.3 inches long or other suitable length, the aforementioned two piece molded component is utilized wherein the first part and the second part each have a channel or groove molded in a surface and when the parts are mated together the fluid path is formed therein.
As in the previous embodiments and as an alternative configuration, a foam pre-filter is applied to the connector and opening 403 is configured to surround the periphery of parts 821a and 821b that form the inlet path and the desired filtering is achieved.
While the invention has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/030,595, filed Feb. 13, 2008 which claims the benefit of the following provisional patent applications, Ser. No. 60/889,728, filed Feb. 13, 2007; Ser. No. 60/910,772 filed Apr. 9, 2007; and Ser. No. 60/985,193 filed Nov. 2, 2007 the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto. This application also claims the benefit of the benefit of the following provisional patent applications, Ser. No. 61/291,256, filed Dec. 30, 2009; and Ser. No. 61/415,570 filed Nov. 19, 2010 the contents each of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| 20110163047 A1 | Jul 2011 | US |
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| Number | Date | Country | |
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| Parent | 12030595 | Feb 2008 | US |
| Child | 12980814 | US |
