Patent Publication Number: US-11389837-B2

Title: Cleaning assembly for reusable filters

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for cleaning reusable filters. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable assembly that can be used to clean reusable filters. 
     Description of the Related Art 
     Reusable oil filters have been used for quite some time in the mobility and transportation industries, for example. These filters are friendly to the environment and can help to reduce toxic waste. 
     Used oil and used oil filters are a serious concern for the environment. Several states have passed legislation regarding proper disposal of used oil filters. Recycling used oil filters can help, but recycling is expensive, inefficient and inconvenient for most do-it-yourselfers. The average consumer changes oil filters three or four times each year. Over 10 years, that is 30-40 filters per vehicle and there are an estimated 236 million motor vehicles in the United States alone. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Applicant has discovered that, if reusable filters are to be a serious commercial consideration to address environmental concerns, an apparatus that can clean the filters for reuse will be necessary. Applicants also have discovered that an impediment to wide-scale adoption of reusable filters is a reliable and efficient cleaning system for reusable filters. 
     Previously, cleaning reusable filters involved a five-gallon bucket, a toothbrush, some coffee filters, dishwashing detergent, paper towels, a mixing container, a garden hose or other source of clean water, and significant manual labor. The detergent would be diluted in water and then the diluted detergent could be poured into the center of the reusable filter to coat the inside of the filter while the outside was lightly scrubbed with the toothbrush. Any runoff would be captured within the bucket. The filter element then would be rinsed by hand with water from the inside out using a garden hose or other similar water supply while the runoff from this step also was captured in the bucket. The filter element then could be air-dried using compressed air from the inside of the filter element to the outside of the filter element. Alternatively, air-drying in sunlight could be used to dry the filter element. This process was time-consuming and manual-labor intensive. 
     Applicant has developed an apparatus for cleaning reusable filters and a method of cleaning reusable filters. The apparatus addresses the lack of any self-contained reusable filter cleaning apparatus in the marketplace. The method improves upon at least some of the short-comings of the existing cleaning methods. 
     In some configurations, a cleaning assembly is usable to clean a filter element of a reusable filter. The cleaning assembly comprises a housing. A mount is movably coupled to the housing. A pressurizing spraying assembly is coupled to the mount. The housing comprises a five-gallon bucket. The five-gallon bucket comprises a base. A sidewall extends upward to an upper rim from the base. A lid is removably attachable to the upper rim of the five-gallon bucket. A handle is attached to an upper end of the sidewall. The handle is rotatable about a pivot axis. Pivot pins extend through the sidewall at the pivot axis. The mount is movably coupled to the housing with the pivot pins. A first set of rollers extends inwardly from the upper end of the sidewall and a second set of rollers extends inwardly from the upper end of the sidewall. The first set of rollers is positioned to a first lateral side of the pivot axis by a first distance and the second set of rollers is positioned to a second lateral side of the pivot axis by a second distance. The first distance is greater than the second distance. The mount comprises a first set of cambered slots and a second set of cambered slots. The first set of cambered slots is configured to receive the first set of rollers and the second set of cambered slots is configured to receive the second set of rollers. The first set of cambered slots is formed on a first surface of the mount and the second set of cambered slots is formed on a second surface that is opposite of the first surface of the mount. The first set of cambered slots is laterally outward of the second set of cambered slots. 
     In some configurations, the cleaning assembly comprises a housing. The housing has a base and at least one sidewall extending upward from the base. A mount is pivotally mounted to the at least one sidewall. A spraying assembly is carried by the mount. The mount is rotatable between a storage position in which the spraying assembly is disposed within the housing at a location below the mount and a use position in which the spraying assembly is disposed generally outside of the housing at a location above the mount. 
     In some such configurations, the mount snaps into at least one of the storage position and the use position. In some such configurations, the mount snaps into both of the storage position and the use position. 
     In some such configurations, a gap is defined between a lateral side of the mount and the sidewall of the housing. 
     In some such configurations, the mount pivots about a pivot axis and a gap is defined between each side edge of the mount and the sidewall such that the pivot axis does not intersect either of the gaps. 
     Is some configurations, a cleaning assembly is usable to clean a filter element of a reusable filter. The cleaning assembly comprises a housing. A mount is movably connected to the housing. A pressurizing spraying assembly is connected to the mount. The mount comprises a central opening. The pressurizing spraying assembly comprises a mixing chamber body. The mixing chamber body comprises an air inlet and a water inlet at a first end. The mixing chamber body comprises a sidewall that defines a lumen. A spraying outlet extends through the sidewall such that a flow of air and water from the air inlet and the water inlet can pass from the lumen through the spraying outlet. The spraying outlet defines a linear spray pattern. The mixing chamber body comprises an outer dimension that can be received within the filter element such that the filter element can be rotated along an axis of the filter element relative to the linear spray pattern. The linear spray pattern extends in an axial direction of the filter element. The linear spray pattern is directed downward into the housing through the central opening of the mount. 
     In some configurations, a cleaning assembly is usable to clean a filter element of a reusable filter. The cleaning assembly comprises a housing and a pressurizing spraying assembly. The pressurizing spraying assembly comprises a body that supports the filter element during a cleaning operation. The body includes an elongate spraying outlet. The elongate spraying outlet directs a spray of pressurized water into the housing and the filter element is movable relative to the spray. 
     In some such configurations, the elongate spraying outlet is generally linear. In some such configurations, the generally linear elongate spraying outlet extends in an axial direction of the body of the spraying assembly. In some such configurations, the generally linear elongate spraying outlet is defined by a slot in the body of the spraying assembly. 
     In some configurations, a method is provided for cleaning a filter element of a reusable filter. The method comprises removing the filter element from the reusable filter. The method comprises mounting the filter element onto a portion of a pressurizing spraying assembly. The method comprises connecting an air supply and a water supply to the pressurizing spraying assembly. The method comprises supplying pressurized air and water to the pressurizing spraying assembly. The method comprises causing relative movement between the filter element and a spray of pressurized air and water that is emitted from the pressurizing spraying assembly to effect cleaning of the filter element. 
     In some such configurations, relative movement is caused by rotating the filter element about the portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly upon which the filter element is mounted. In some such configurations, the portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly comprises a generally linear spray outlet that is directed downwardly and the method further comprises mounting a sleeve element over at least a portion of the generally linear spray outlet that extends axially beyond the filter element. 
     In some such configurations, mounting the filter element comprises sliding the filter element along the portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly and rotating a retaining clip. In some such configurations, the method comprises mounting a sleeve element adjacent to the filter element prior to rotating the retaining clip. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features, aspects and advantages of illustrated embody of the present invention now will be described with reference to the drawings of a preferred embodiment, which embodiment is intended to illustrate and not to limit the invention, and in which figures: 
         FIG. 1  is a top perspective view of a cleaning assembly arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention, the cleaning assembly being shown in a shipping and/or storage configuration; 
         FIG. 2  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with a lid in the process of being removed for use; 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the lid fully removed; 
         FIG. 4  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the lid fully removed and a mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted partway to a use position from a storage position; 
         FIG. 5  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with a handle removed and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted halfway to the use position from the storage position; 
         FIG. 6  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted almost completely to the use position from the storage position; 
         FIG. 7  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted to the use position; 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed, a water valve removed, and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted to the use position; 
         FIG. 9  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed, a water valve removed, and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted to the use position; 
         FIG. 10  is a side elevation front side view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a side elevation right side view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a side elevation rear view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a side elevation left view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a top plan view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom plan view of the cleaning assembly as shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a top cross-sectional view showing a positional securement assembly; 
         FIG. 17  is a top perspective view of the mount and the pressurizing spraying assembly with the water valve removed; 
         FIG. 18  is an exploded view of the mount and the pressurizing spraying assembly with the water valve removed; 
         FIG. 19  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed and showing an unlocked position of a retaining clip; 
         FIG. 20  is a sectioned view through the retaining clip showing the retaining clip in the unlocked position; 
         FIG. 21  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  with the handle removed and showing a locked position of the retaining clip; 
         FIG. 22  is a sectioned view through the retaining clip showing the retaining clip in the locked position; 
         FIG. 23  is a top perspective exploded view of the cleaning assembly; 
         FIG. 24  is a vertical section through the mounting plate and the pressurizing spraying assembly showing an airflow path; 
         FIG. 25  is a vertical section through the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 1  showing an air and water mixing chamber; 
         FIG. 26  is a vertical section through the air and water mixing chamber showing an air port leading into the air and water mixing chamber from the airflow path; and 
         FIG. 27  is a horizontal section through the air and water mixing chamber showing an outlet of the pressurizing spraying assembly. 
         FIG. 28  is a top perspective view of another cleaning assembly with the handle removed and the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly pivoted to the use position; 
         FIG. 29  is a top perspective view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of the embodiment of  FIG. 28 . 
         FIG. 30  is a left side view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 31  is a top plan view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 32  is a right side view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 33  is a rear view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 34  is a bottom elevation view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 35  is a front view of the mount and pressurizing spraying assembly of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 36  is an exploded view of a portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly and mount of  FIG. 29 . 
         FIG. 37  is a sectioned view of a mandrel adapter. 
         FIG. 38  is a top perspective view of the cleaning assembly of  FIG. 29  with a filter element in position for cleaning. 
         FIG. 39  is a cross section view of a mandrel. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an embodiment of a cleaning assembly  100  that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention. The illustrated cleaning assembly  100  generally comprises three main components: a housing  102 , a mount  104 , and a pressurizing spraying assembly  106 .  FIG. 29  illustrates another embodiment of a cleaning assembly  400  that is arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention. The cleaning assembly  400  also generally comprises a housing  402 , a mount  404 , and a pressurizing spraying assembly  406 . The two illustrated embodiments of the cleaning assembly have many components in common and certain variations will be referred to throughout the following description. With respect to the differences between the embodiments, the components of one embodiment are easily integrated into the other embodiment and not all of the differences between the two embodiments need to be used in any particular embodiment such that other cleaning assembly embodiments may incorporate only one or more than one of the variations. 
     With reference initially to  FIG. 4 , the illustrated housing  102  supports the mount  104 . The illustrated mount  104  supports the pressurizing spraying assembly  106 . The pressurizing spraying assembly  106  receives one or more filter element  110  (best shown in  FIG. 18 ) from one or more reusable filter during a cleaning operation. 
     Each filter element  110  typically has a generally cylindrical opening through which a portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  extends and that portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  emits one or more pressurized water streams that impinge upon the cylindrical opening of the filter element  110  to clean the filter element  110  of sediment and residue. The housing  102  captures and holds the water, sediment, and residue. After the cleaning operation is complete, the water, sediment, and residue can be safely disposed of from the cleaning assembly  100  in an environmentally-friendly manner. Finally, the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  and the mount  104  can be positioned for safe storage within the housing  102 . 
     Advantageously, as will be described, the mount  104  couples the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  to the housing  102  during use of the cleaning assembly  100 . In some configurations, the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  can be moved relative to the housing  102  between a use position (e.g.,  FIG. 7 ) and a stored position (e.g.,  FIG. 3 ). In some such configurations, the pressurizing assembly  106  can be secured in either or both of the use and storage positions. In some such configurations, the mount  104  can be moved relative to the housing  102  between a position that corresponds to the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  being used and a position that corresponds to the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  being stored. In some such configurations, the mount  104  snaps into one or more of the use position and the stored position. When the mount  104  snaps into one or more of the use position and the storage position, there can be one or more of an audible indicator, a tactile indicator, a haptic indicator, and a visual indicator. 
     The housing  102  can have any suitable configuration. The housing  102  can be configured to capture runoff from the cleaning process. In some configurations, the housing  102  can be configured to minimize splashing or overspray. In some configurations, the mount  104  in combination with the housing  102  can be configured to minimize splashing or overspray. In some configurations, the housing  102  can be configured to store the mount  104  and the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  during periods of non-use. In some configurations, the housing  102  can be configured to act as a shipping container. 
     With reference to  FIG. 1 , the illustrated housing comprises a base  120 . At least one sidewall  122  extends upwardly from the base  120 . While the illustrated container  102  comprises a single cylindrical sidewall  122 , other configurations may include more than a single sidewall. With respect to the term “cylindrical,” in some configurations, the sidewall  122  slightly varies from absolutely cylindrical such that one housing  122  can be nested inside of a second housing prior to assembly with the mount  104 . As such, cylindrical should be understood to have the ordinary meaning as well as a broader meaning that encompasses a tapering cylinder that facilitates nesting. An upper end  124  of the sidewall  122  can be configured to receive a removable lid  126 . 
     In some configurations, the lid  126  and the sidewall  124  can be connected with a fluid-tight seal. The lid  126  can be removed during a cleaning operation but can be installed on the upper end  124  of the sidewall  122  for storage and for shipping. The fluid tight seal can be formed through interlocking surfaces or in any other suitable manner. 
     A handle  130  also can be connected to the upper end  124  of the sidewall  122 . The handle  130  can be pivotally attached to the sidewall  124 . In the illustrated configuration, the handle  130  pivots about a pivot axis PA. The handle  130  facilitates transport of the housing  102  as well as dumping of remnants from a cleaning operation collected inside of the housing  102 . 
     The illustrated housing  102  comprises a 5 gallon bucket. Using the bucket as the housing  102  simplifies manufacturing of the cleaning assembly  100 . In addition, using the bucket as the housing  102  provides a ready configuration for shipping and for storage when the bucket is provided with the lid  126 . Further, the internal volume of the bucket ensures that any de minimis amount of oil trapped within the filter element  110  during cleaning will be suitably diluted prior to disposal. In some cases, up to 0.07 ounces of oil can be discarded with one gallon of water but users will need to pay attention to local regulations when determining how to dispose of any contaminated oil or water resulting from a cleaning operation. 
     As discussed above, the mount  104  is supported by the housing  102 . With reference to  FIG. 2 , two pivot pins  140  (one shown) secure the mount  140  to the housing  102 . Both of the pivot pins  140  can be seen in  FIG. 17 . As shown in  FIG. 16 , the pivot pins  140  each define a recess  142 . The recess  142  is sized and configured to receive an end of the handle  130 . Other suitable configurations, including positioning the ends of the handle  130  vertically above or below the pivot pins  140  also can be used. The illustrated configuration aligns the pivot axis PA with a handle axis such that the cleaning assembly  100  is better balanced. In some configurations, the pivot pins  140  can extend through a portion of the handle  130  and can be used to secure the handle  130  to the housing  102 . 
     The mount  104  can be provided with a bore  144  corresponding to each of the pivot pins  140 . The pivot pins  140  can be secured against rotation relative to one or both of the sidewall  122  or the bore  144  in any suitable manner keeping in mind the desire to allow the mount  104  to pivot relative to the housing  102 . In the illustrated configuration, the pivot pins  140  are glued into the respective bores  144 . In some configurations, the bores  144  can be internally threaded and the pivot pins  140  can be threaded into the bores  144 . In some configurations, bosses or pegs can protrude outward from the mount  104  and the bosses or pegs can extend through openings formed in the sidewall  122 . Other mounting variations also can be used keeping in mind a desire to connect the mount  104  to the housing  102  and to allow the mount  104  to move between a stored position and a use position. 
     With reference again to  FIG. 16 , the sidewall  122  also receives at least one pin assembly  146 . In the illustrated configuration, four pin assemblies  146  are used. Any suitable pin or pin assembly can be used. Each illustrated pin assembly  146  comprises a roller  150  that is secured to the sidewall  122  using a screw  152  and a nut  154 . The screw  152  has a head that is embedded within the roller  150  and a shaft that extends through the sidewall  122  into the nut  154 . The roller  150  can have any suitable configuration. The illustrated roller  150  is a Delrin roller. 
     The illustrated cleaning assembly  100  has the pin assemblies  146  on one side of the pivot axis PA spaced further from the pivot axis PA that the pin assemblies  146  on the other side of the pivot axis PA. In the orientation of  FIG. 16 , the pin assemblies  146  above the pivot axis PA are spaced further from the pivot axis PA than the pin assemblies  146  below the pivot axis PA. Each of the slots of each of the sets  160 ,  162  forms a recess in a surface of the mount  104 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 17 , each end of the mount  104  comprises a first set of cambered slots  160  and a second set of cambered slots  162 . Each of the sets  160 ,  162  is bisected by the pivot axis PA. The first set of the cambered slots  160  is outward of the second set of the cambered slots  162 . The first set of the cambered slots  160  forms recesses in an upper surface  164  (in the use position) while the second set of the cambered slots  162  forms recesses in a lower surface  166  (in the use position). 
     Each of the slots also has a camming surface (e.g., projection) formed along at least one side such that the roller  150  can click into position. The roller  150  and the corresponding slot can provide at least one of audible indicator, a tactile indicator, a haptic indicator, and a visual indicator that the mount  104  has been fully rotated to the desired position (e.g., use or stored). In the illustrated configuration, the camming surface is on the outermost edge of the slot relative to the pivot axis PA. Other configurations also can be used to form a positive lock in one or more position. 
     In the illustrated configuration, only one slot of the first set of cambered slots  160  at each end of the mount  104  will be occupied by a roller and only one slot of the second set of cambered slots  162  at each end of the mount  104  will be occupied by a roller in either the use or stored position of the mount  104 . Further, of each paired slots to the same side of the pivot axis PA, only one slot of each of those pairs of slots will be occupied by a roller in either the use or stored position of the mount  104 . 
     The illustrated cleaning assembly  100  features a positive lock in each of the storage and the use positions. In some configurations, a positive lock may only be provided in the use position.  FIG. 3  illustrates the cleaning assembly  100  with the mount  104  locked in the storage position.  FIG. 7  illustrates the cleaning assembly  100  with the mount  104  locked in the use position. 
     With reference to  FIG. 16 , when the mount  104  is secured to the housing  102 , two lateral sides  170  define gaps G with an inner surface of the sidewall  122 . The gaps G facilitate emptying of the housing  102  following a cleaning cycle. In the illustrated configuration, the gaps G are defined by a curved surface and a straight surface. The gaps G can have a largest span of 0.25 inch or larger. The pivot axis PA extends between the two gaps G. The illustrated pivot axis PA does not intersect either of the gaps G. In some configurations, the pivot axis PA is positioned in between the gaps G and does not intersect either or both of the gaps G. Thus, the housing  102  can be tipped about the pivot axis PA while the handle  130  is being held such that the contents of the housing  102  can be dumped through at least one of the gaps G. While each of the illustrated gaps G is at least partially defined by the linear lateral side  170 , the lateral side  170  need not be linear and can have any suitable configuration. 
     In addition, the mount  104  further comprises a central opening  172 . The illustrated central opening  172  is surrounded by structure of the mount  104 . The central opening  172  allows for fluids used during the cleaning operation to drain into a cavity defined by the housing  102 . In some configurations, the fluids drain through the opening  172  to the bottom of the housing  102 . Providing an oversized central opening  172  also reduces the mass of the cleaning assembly  100 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 8 , the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  can be coupled to the mount  104 . In the illustrated configuration, recesses (not shown) can be formed in the upper surface  164  of the mount  104 . The recesses receive an upright  180  as well as two gussets  182 . The recesses help to provide rigidity to the mounting arrangement. The upright  180  and the gussets  182  can be secured to the mount  104  in any suitable manner. In some configurations, the upright  180  and the gussets  182  are secured to each other and are secured to the recesses of the mount  104  using adhesives or the like. In some configurations, one or more of the gussets  182  and/or the upright  180  can be omitted. In some configurations, the mount  104  and the upright  180  and gussets  182  can be integrally formed. In some configurations, the mount  104  and one or more of the upright  180  and gussets  182  can be molded as a single piece. In some configurations, the upright  180  is inclined relative to a plane that is normal to a bottom of the housing  102 . In some such configurations, the upright  180  is inclined by 1-6 degrees. In some such configurations, the upright  180  is inclined by 3 degrees. The incline helps to avoid direct splashing out of the bucket during use. 
     As shown in  FIG. 23 , a mixing chamber body  184  can be mounted to the upright  180 . In some configurations, the mixing chamber body  184  extends through an opening  186  in the upright  180 . In some such configurations, the mixing chamber body  184  can be secured in position relative to the upright using a suitable adhesive or the like. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 23 , a sidewall  190  of the upright  180  comprises an opening  192 . Similarly, the mixing chamber body  184  comprises an opening  194 . When the mixing chamber body  184  is mounted to the upright  180 , the opening  192  of the sidewall  190  of the upright  180  aligns with the opening  194  in the mixing chamber body  184 . As shown in  FIG. 24 , an air nozzle  200  extends from the opening  192  of the sidewall  190  of the upright  180  and through the opening  194  of the mixing chamber body  184 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , the air nozzle  200  extends into a lumen  202  defined by one or more wall  204  of the mixing chamber body  184 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 26 , the air nozzle  200  comprises an outlet port  206 . In the illustrated configuration, the outlet port  206  comprises an opening  210  in a sidewall  212  of the air nozzle  200 . Air passing through the opening  210  will be directed axially along the lumen  202  of the mixing chamber body  184 . In the illustrated configuration, the outlet port  206  can be said to define a flow axis FA that extends along the axial direction of the lumen  202 . 
     With reference again to  FIG. 24 , a tube  214  extends between the opening  192  in the sidewall  190  of the upright  180  and an elbow  216 . The elbow  216  is fluidly coupled to an air valve  220 . The air valve  220  is fluidly coupled to a check valve  222  through a gallery  224  formed in the mount  104 . The gallery  224  is enclosed with a lid  226  as shown in  FIG. 26 . The check valve  222  reduces the likelihood of syphoning of water through the air supply system to the source of the air. Finally, an elbow  230  connects an air fitting  232  to the check valve  222 . In some configurations (see  FIG. 38 ), the check valve  460  can be positioned along an air supply line  462 . 
     A hose (not shown) can connect to a pressurized air supply source. The hose (not shown) also can connect to the air fitting  232 . In some configurations (see  FIG. 38 ), the fitting  464  can be removably secured to the mount  404  when not in use such that the air supply line  462  can be constrained during movement between the use and storage positions. When pressurized air is supplied through the hose, the air will flow through the air fitting  232 , through the elbow  230 , through the check valve  222 , through the gallery  224  and the air valve  220 , through the elbow  216 , through the tube  214 , through the opening  192 , through the air nozzle  200  and exit through the outlet port  206  into the mixing chamber body  184  in the axial direction defined by the lumen  202 . Other configurations also can be used to couple the flow of pressurized gas with the lumen  202  of the mixing chamber body  184 . Together, the inlet, which is the air fitting  232  in the illustrated configuration, to the outlet, which is the outlet port  206  in the illustrated configuration, define an air supply assembly  234 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 23 , a water valve  240  and a hose coupling  242  are coupled to the mixing chamber body  184 . The hose coupling  242  facilitates connection to a standard garden hose or the like. The water valve  240  allows control over the water supply directly at the cleaning assembly  100 . The water valve  240  can be connected to the mixing chamber body  184  in any suitable manner. In some configurations, an adhesive or the like can be used to connect the water valve  240  to the mixing chamber body  184 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 23 , a distal end  250  of the mixing chamber body  184  can receive a locking end cap  252 . The locking end cap  252  can be secured in position relative to the mixing chamber body  184  in any suitable manner. In some configurations, such as that shown in  FIG. 27 , the locking end cap  252  can be secured within the distal end  250  of the mixing chamber body  250  by inserting a stepped portion  256  of the locking end cap  252  into a recess  254  formed in the distal end  250  of the mixing chamber body  250 . The stepped portion  256  and the recess  254  can be secured using adhesives, threading or the like. 
     The illustrated locking end cap  252  comprises a through passage  260  that terminates in a threaded region  262 . The threaded region  262  can receive a plug  264 . With the plug in place, pressure can build within the mixing chamber body  184 . With the plug  164  removed, it is possible to connect additional mixing chamber bodies or the like. 
     As shown in  FIG. 27 , a spraying outlet  270  extends through a wall  272  of the mixing chamber body  184 . The spraying outlet  270  can be angularly offset from the opening  194 . As reflected by the positioning of the opening  194 , the spraying outlet  270  is angularly offset from the axis of the opening  194  by about 90 degrees in the illustrated configuration. The spraying outlet  270  can have any suitable configuration keeping in mind a desire to have an elongate outlet that can impinge a flow of pressurized water along an axial length of the filter element  110  being cleaned. In the illustrated configuration, the spraying outlet  270  is a slot. In the illustrated configuration, the slot has a length of between 2 inches and 10 inches. In some configurations, the slot can have a length of at least 4 inches. In some configurations, the slot need not have a length exceeding 9 inches. While the illustrated spraying outlet  270  is a slot, other configurations can be used, such as, but not limited to, a series of holes, whether in a line or a plurality of lines. In addition, the illustrated spraying outlet  270  is a slot having a width of 0.020 inch. The slot, however, could have a width of between 0.015 inch and 0.040 inch. In some configurations, the slot could have a width of at least 0.015 inch. In some configurations, the slot could have a width of no more than 0.060 inch. Furthermore, a single slot is illustrated. In some configurations, more than one slot could be used. Regardless of the configuration, the spraying outlet  270  must not be so large as to allow the pressure of the spray to drop to an undesirable level keeping in mind the mixing of the water and the pressurized air within the mixing chamber body  184 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 23 , the illustrated filter element  110  is shorter than the length of the spraying outlet  270 . Filter elements come in an assortment of axial lengths. To provide an arrangement that can be universal to the most common lengths of filter elements, the illustrated configuration includes one or more sleeve element  274 . The sleeve element  274  has a diameter that fits closely over the outer diameter of the mixing chamber body  184 . As shown in  FIG. 27 , an axial length of the sleeve element  274  is defined by the distance between an inner wall  280  of a retaining clip  282  and an inner wall  284  of the upright  180  less the axial length of the particular model of filter element  110  with which the sleeve element  274  was designed for use. In use, the sleeve element  274  blocks the portion of the spraying outlet  270  that extends beyond the axial length of the filter element  110 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 36 , in some configurations, the mixing chamber body can be generally defined by a mandrel adapter  410  and a mandrel  412 . The mandrel adapter  410  can be a component separate from an upright  414  or can be integrally formed with the upright. In the illustrated configuration, the mandrel adapter  410  can be inserted into an opening  416  formed within the upright  414  and secured in position. The mandrel adapter  410  can be welded, adhered, cohered or otherwise secured in position within the opening  416  of the upright  414 . In some such configurations, the mandrel adapter  410  can be glued into position within the upright  414 . In some configurations, the mandrel adapter  410  can be integrally formed with the upright. In some such configurations, the mandrel adapter  410  and the upright  414  can be injection molded or otherwise formed as a single component. In some configurations, an outer surface of the mandrel adapter  410  includes a flat surface  420 . The flat surface  420  orients the mandrel adapter  410  in a desired rotational orientation relative to the upright  414 . 
     The mandrel adapter  410  comprises a first axial end  422  and a second axial end  424 . A flow passage  444  can be defined within the mandrel adapter  410 . The flow passage  444  can extend between the first axial end  422  and the second axial end  424 . The flow passage  444  can have a larger diameter at the first axial end  422  and a smaller diameter at the second axial end  424 . In some such configurations, the flow passage  444  can expand between the first axial end  422  and the axial location  446  where the air supply extends inward into the flow passage from the upright  414 . In some such configurations, the flow passage  444  can contract between the axial location  446  where the air supply extends inward into the flow passage from the upright and the second axial end  424 . 
     The first axial end  422  is configured to receive a fluid washer  426  (e.g., rubber washer) and connects to a water valve (discussed below). The second axial end  424  comprises an outer threaded surface and is configured to receive the mandrel  412 . A fluid washer  430  can be positioned between the mandrel adapter  410  and the mandrel  412 . 
     The mandrel  412  can comprise a first axial end  432  and a second axial end  434 . A base ring  436  can encircle the first axial end  432 . The base ring  436  can space the filter away from the upright  414  when the filter is installed on the mandrel  412 . In some configurations, the base ring  436  enables a single mandrel  412  to accommodate filter elements having different axial lengths. In some configurations, multiple base rings having different axial lengths can be used. In some configurations, the base ring  436  is omitted because different mandrels can be used to correlate to different axial lengths and/or inner diameters of filter elements. 
     The first axial end  432  can comprise an internally threaded surface that mates with the externally threaded surface of the mandrel adapter  410 . In the illustrated configuration, the threads of the mandrel  412  and the mandrel adapter  410  are configured and arranged such that when the mandrel  412  is fully threaded onto the mandrel adapter  410 , the mandrel  412  is oriented with the a spraying outlet  440  direct downwardly (see  FIG. 34 ). 
     The second axial end  434  receives a locking end cap  442 . The locking end cap  442  can include indicia that indicates that the mandrel  412  has been fully threaded onto the mandrel adapter  410 . The illustrated configuration advantageously facilitates that use of mandrels of different lengths such that the mandrels can be configured for specific filter sizes. In other words, the lengths of the filter elements of different filters vary; the mandrels can be sized and configured 
     With reference to  FIG. 34  and  FIG. 39 , the spraying outlet  440  of the mandrel  412  is defined by a slot  447 . A passage  441  extends from the first axial end  432 . The illustrated passage  441  extends from the first axial end  432  to the second axial end  434 . The passage  441  can have a smaller diameter than the flow passage  444  at the second axial end  424  of the mandrel adapter  410 . In the illustrated configuration, the passage  441  extends axially within the mandrel  412 . The passage  441  is connected to the slot  447  with a channel  443 . The channel  443  extends along a portion of the passage  441  and intersects a portion of the passage  441 . The channel  443  preferably intersects only a portion of the passage  441 . The illustrated channel  443  extends radially between the passage  441  and the slot  447 . 
     The slot  447  can be configured as described above. In some configurations, the slot  447  can be defined by an insert  446 . The mandrel  412  can comprise a recess or an opening  445  that receives the insert  446 . The insert  446  and the mandrel  412  can be formed of compatible materials. In some configurations, the insert  446  is formed of a different material than the mandrel  412 . In some configurations, the insert  446  can be adhered, cohered, or welded into position on the mandrel  412 . In some such configurations, the insert  446  is glued into the mandrel  412 . The insert  446  facilitates machining of the slot  447  that defines the spraying outlet  440 . The slot  447  can have any suitable configuration. The illustrated slot  447  can taper such that it has a larger cross-section at the inlet and a smaller cross-section at the outlet. In the illustrated configuration, the slot  447  is V-shaped in cross-section. Other configurations also can be used. The slot can have any suitable dimensions that will facilitate adequate spray velocity/pressure along with sufficient coverage of the filter element to provide adequate flushing of the filter element. In some configurations, the outlet of the slot has a width of about 13 to 15 thousands of an inch. 
     With reference to  FIG. 38 , at least a portion of the pressurizing spraying assembly  406  can be covered by a shield  450 . The shield  450  has a length L in the axial direction of the mandrel  412 . The length L can shorter than a length of a filter element received on the mandrel  412  for cleaning. The shield  450  can be sized to be universal relative to all possible mandrels  412  but preferably is removable from the mount  404 . In the illustrated configuration, the mount  404  can comprise grooves  452  that receives flanges  454  of the shield  450 . The grooves  452  can be formed in the sidewalls of the opening  456 . The flanges  454  can slide within the grooves  452 , which terminate short of a full length of the sidewalls of the opening  456  in the illustrated configuration. The grooves can slope at the same angle as the angle of the mandrel  412  as a result of the angle of the upright  414 . 
     The illustrated shield  450  includes a window  460 . The window  460  provides access to a filter element  462  during a cleaning operation. In the illustrated configuration, the window  460  enables an operator to see the cleaning of the filter element  462  while also providing the operator with the ability to turn the filter element  462  relative to the mandrel  412 . In some configurations, the shorter length of the shield enables turning of the filter element  462  and helps with removal of the filter element  462  following a cleaning operation. In some configurations, the shield may be at least partially transparent and the filter element  462  can be turned at the second end of the mandrel such that the window can be omitted. 
     The retaining clip  282  secures the filter element  110  and the sleeve element  274  in position on the outer surface of the mixing chamber body  184 . The retaining clip  282  and the locking end cap  252  can have interlocking shapes. With reference to  FIGS. 19-22 , the interaction of the retaining clip  282  and the locking end cap  252  will be described. As shown in  FIGS. 19-20 , the retaining clip  282  has a mouth  290  that has a span sufficient to pass over a narrowed region of the locking end cap  252 . Thus, the retaining clip  282  can be slid onto the locking end cap  252  in a generally radial direction until a bight of the retaining clip  282  contacts the locking end cap  252 . At this stage, the retaining clip  282  can be rotated into the position shown in  FIGS. 21-22 . In the illustrated configuration, this results in the retaining clip  282  contacting a camming surface of the locking end cap  252  such that one or more of audible indicator, a tactile indicator, a haptic indicator, and a visual indicator would be provided to confirm that the retaining clip  282  is in the locked position. A visual indicator of the one or both of the locked and/or unlocked positions can be provided, as shown in  FIG. 19 . 
     Other than the air supply assembly described above and the sleeve element, most of the assembly is formed from gluable PVC. PVC can be readily connected with adhesives and the material is non-corrosive, which provides a long life span for the cleaning assembly. In some configurations, one or more of the components can be molded to decrease parts and to reduce or eliminate potential leakage locations. 
     In use, the lid  262  is removed and the mount  104  with the pressurizing spraying assembly  106  is rotated from the storage position into the use position. In some configurations, the mount  104  will snap into position relative to the housing  102 . The filter element  110  is slid onto the outer surface of the mixing chamber body  184 . If needed, the appropriate sleeve element  274  is slid onto the outer surface of the mixing chamber body  184  until it abuts the filter element  110 . The retaining clip  282  is moved radially onto the locking end cap  282  and is rotated into the locked position. In some configurations, the retaining clip  282  may snap into the locked position. 
     The water supply and the pressurized air supply can be fitted to the cleaning assembly  100  either before or after the filter element  110  and the sleeve element  274  are mounted. The air supply and the water supply can be turned on in either order. If desired, a detergent can be provided to the filter element  110  and the filter element  110  can be rotated while the pressurized water spray from the spraying outlet  270  impinges the inner wall of the filter element  110 , thereby cleaning the filter element. The water emerging from the filter element  110 , together with any debris from the filter element, collects in the base of the housing  102 . 
     Once the filter element  110  is sufficiently clean, the sleeve element  274  (where used), the filter element  110 , the water supply and the air supply can be removed from the cleaning assembly  100 . The water and debris can be safely disposed in an environmentally friendly manner. In some situations, the housing  102  can be tipped about the handle  130  and the contents can be emptied into another vessel. The filter element  110  can be dried and reassembled according to manufacturer directions. The housing  102  can be dried or left to air dry and then the mount  104  can be returned to the storage position and the lid  126  can be attached prior to storing the cleaning assembly until the next use. 
     Although the present invention has been described in terms of a certain embodiment, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this invention. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For instance, various components may be repositioned as desired. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.