Patent Publication Number: US-6213146-B1

Title: Valve assembly for preventing liquid ingestion and methods

Description:
This application is a Divisional of application Ser. No. 09/154,993, filed Sep. 17, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,009,898, which application(s) are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention is directed to valve assemblies and air cleaners. More specifically, this invention is directed to a valve assembly for an engine air cleaner to prevent the ingestion of liquid into an engine through the air intake of the engine. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Certain types of motor vehicles such as four wheel drive sport utility vehicles, light trucks, agricultural vehicles, watercraft, all-terrain, military vehicles and mining vehicles at times may be operated in off-road areas. Such vehicles can typically have engine sizes of under  1  liter to more than 20 liters piston displacement, and horsepower of less than 10 to more than 1500 (7.5-1118 kw). In this off-road environment, vehicles may encounter liquid obstacles, such as rivers, streams, water-filled ditches, or water-filled ravines. 
     Crossing these liquid obstacles can have serious consequences if the depth of the liquid is deeper than the height of the engine air intake on the vehicle. If more than just a small amount of water enters the engine air intake, engine damage may occur. Such damage may include hydrostatic lock. If an engine cylinder gets more water in it than its compressed volume, the engine stops instantly and major engine damage, such as bent piston connecting rods may result. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, the invention is directed to a valve assembly for preventing liquid ingestion into an engine through the air intake of the engine. The valve assembly is configured and arranged to prevent the valve assembly from closing when conditions do not warrant its closing, due to vibration and bounce, for example. 
     In one embodiment, the valve assembly includes a housing defining an open interior, an inlet port, a valve seat having an outlet port extending therethrough and a float support region. The inlet port and the outlet port are in fluid communication with the open interior. The valve assembly includes a float within the housing. The float is movable between first and second positions along a float path. The first position includes the float being positioned within the float support region of the housing. The second position includes the float positioned within the valve seat to obstruct the outlet port in response to a selected liquid volume within the housing. The housing is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of the float along the float path to the second position, unless the selected liquid volume within the housing is attained. 
     In one embodiment, the housing comprises projection members constructed and arranged to obstruct the float path. For example, the projection members include first and second eccentric, spaced rings positioned within the housing along the float path. In this manner, there is no clear path for the float to follow, in order to reach the valve seat in the second position. 
     In another embodiment, the float comprises a spherical ball, and the housing includes a cup member for holding the ball in the float support region. The cup is constructed and arranged to retain the float within the cup by vacuum pressure. 
     In another embodiment, the housing includes a magnet in the float support region, and the float includes a metallic material attracted to the magnet. 
     In another aspect, the invention is directed to an air cleaner assembly comprising an air cleaner housing having an air inlet and an air outlet. A filter element is positioned within the housing, downstream of the inlet and upstream of the outlet. A valve assembly is positioned downstream of the filter element within the air cleaner housing. The valve assembly includes a float and a valve seat. The valve seat circumscribes the air outlet. The float is movable between first and second positions along a float path. The first position includes the float being positioned away from the valve seat. The second position includes the float being positioned within the valve seat to obstruct the air outlet in response to a selected liquid volume within the housing. The air cleaner housing is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of the float along the float path to the second position, unless the selected liquid volume within the housing is attained. 
     In one example, the valve assembly includes a cylindrical tube holding the float in the first position. The cylindrical tube is, for example, lined with obstruction members projecting inwardly to inhibit float movement along the float path. 
     In another arrangement, the valve assembly includes a cup member for holding the float in the first position. The cup is constructed and arranged to retain the float within the cup by vacuum pressure. 
     Methods for preventing liquid ingestion into an engine through the air intake of the engine are provided. In one method, a valve assembly is provided upstream of the engine. The valve assembly has a float and a valve seat. The float is movable along a float path between a first position away from the valve seat and a second position blocking the valve seat. Movement of the float is inhibited along the float path to prevent movement of the float to the second position, unless a selected liquid volume within the valve assembly is attained. Example methods include constructions as described herein. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed. 
     The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate example embodiments of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     IN THE DRAWINGS 
     FIG. 1 is a schematic, side elevational view of an embodiment of an air cleaner housing, partially broken away depicting a filter element, in which a valve assembly of the present invention may be utilized. 
     FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an outlet chamber of the air cleaner housing depicted in FIG. 1, usable to house a valve assembly in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 3 is a schematic, cross sectional view of the embodiment of the outlet housing depicted in FIG. 2, and showing a valve assembly, in accordance with the principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 4 is a front side elevational view of one embodiment of the valve assembly, depicted in FIG. 3, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 5 is a schematic, top plan view of a ring construction usable in the valve assembly, and depicted in FIG.  3 . 
     FIG. 6 is a schematic, perspective view of a second embodiment of a valve assembly usable in the air cleaner housing of FIG. 1, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 7 is a schematic, front side elevational view of a third embodiment of a valve assembly usable in an air cleaner housing depicted in FIG. 1, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 8 is a schematic, side elevational view of an alternative embodiment of a float construction, usable in the valve assemblies in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 9 is a schematic, side elevational view of another alternative embodiment of a float construction usable in valve assemblies, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 10 is a schematic, side elevational view of another alternative embodiment of a float construction, usable in valve assemblies, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 11 is a schematic, side elevational view of another alternative embodiment of a float construction, usable in valve assemblies, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 12A is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a valve assembly usable with the air cleaner housing depicted in FIG. 1, depicted in an open position, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 12B is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of FIG. 12A depicted in a closed position, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 13A is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a valve assembly usable with the air cleaner housing depicted in FIG. 1, depicted in a closed position, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 13B is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of the valve assembly of FIG. 13A depicted in a closed position, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 14 is a schematic, partial cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a valve assembly usable with the air cleaner housing depicted in FIG. 1, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 15 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, partially broken away view of an alternative embodiment of a valve assembly, similar to that depicted in FIG. 4, and showing the valve assembly in an open orientation, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
     FIG. 16 is a schematic, partially cross-sectional, partially broken away view of the embodiment of the valve assembly depicted in FIG. 15, and showing the valve assembly in a closed position, in accordance with principles of the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In FIG. 1, an air cleaner is shown generally at  20 . Air cleaner  20  may be used to filter and clean air as it is being drawn into an engine for combustion purposes. Air cleaner  20  is suitable for engines having sizes with a piston displacement in a range from about 2-8 liters, and horsepower of 100-300 horsepower (about 75-224 kw). Air cleaner  20  includes a housing  21 , an air inlet  22 , and an air outlet  23 . Also within housing  21  is a filter element  24 . Filter element  24  includes a media construction for cleaning and filtering particles from the air, to ensure only clean air is vented into the engine intake. Filter element  24  may include a variety of media constructions and material. In the particular embodiment illustrated, filter element  24  is a rolled, corrugated cellulose media, having an oval-shaped profile. Media constructions of this type are described further in commonly assigned and co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/639,371, filed on Apr. 26, 1996, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,646, and incorporated by reference herein. Also shown in FIG. 1, housing  21  defines an aperture  25  in the inlet region  26  of the housing  21 . As will be described further below, aperture  25  functions as a liquid or water drainage hole. 
     Inlet  22  is positioned upstream of filter element  24 . Filter element  24  is positioned upstream of outlet  23 . In operation, air cleaner  20  is oriented upstream of an engine. Air is taken through inlet  22  and then passes through element  24 . Element  24  cleans or filters particles from the air. The air then passes downstream to outlet assembly  27 , and then through outlet member  23 . The cleaned air then, typically, passes into the engine for combustion. 
     In reference now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of outlet assembly  27  is illustrated. Outlet assembly  27  for example includes a first construction  28  and an outlet tube construction  29 . First construction  28  is oriented for engagement with element section  30 , FIG. 1, of housing  21 . That is, after air flows through element  24 , it passes into first construction  28 . Outlet tube construction  29  is oriented in extension from first construction  28  and projects or extends from first construction  28 . Outlet tube construction is part of a valve assembly  40 , described further below. 
     In reference now to FIG. 3, one example outlet assembly  27  is shown in cross-sectional view. As can be seen in FIG. 3, outlet assembly  27  houses or contains valve assembly  40  within it. Valve assembly  40  is conveniently located within outlet assembly  27 , such that no additional parts or accessories need to be installed within what may sometimes be a very confined region under the hood of a sports utility vehicle. Valve assembly  40  is, for example, located just upstream of the air intake to the engine, in order to prevent the ingestion of water or other liquid into the engine through the air intake. 
     In general, one example valve assembly  40  includes a housing construction  42  and a float  44 . The example housing construction  42  defines an open interior  45 , an inlet port  46 , a valve seat  47  defining an outlet  48  extending therethrough, and a float support region  50 . 
     To summarize operation of the example valve assembly  40 , when liquid, such as water, fills valve assembly  40  by entering through inlet port  46 , float  44  moves or floats with the level of liquid from the float support region to the valve seat  47 . When seated within valve seat  47 , float  44  blocks outlet port  48 . This blockage prevents liquid from passing through outlet tube  23 . This also blocks the intake of air into an engine, which shuts the engine down and prevents the water or liquid from being ingested. When the liquid level drops, float  44  leaves valve seat  47 , and the engine may be restarted without damaging the engine. As shown in FIG. 1, aperture  25  is provided to function as a liquid drain hole in the inlet region  26 , which is typically the lowest point of the air cleaner  20  when mounted in a vehicle, to allow water or liquid to drain out of the air cleaner  20 . 
     Valve assembly  40  also includes structure to inhibit or prevent the valve outlet port  48  from closing, when conditions do not warrant it to be closed. In other words, structure is provided in valve assembly  40  to inhibit, impede, or prevent float  44  from becoming seated onto valve seat  47 , unless the appropriate liquid level within first construction  28  and housing construction  42  is attained. This structure is provided because if outlet port  48  is blocked, the engine will shut down. For example, engine shutdown is desired only if there is a danger of liquid being drawn into the engine through the air intake. Example constructions to inhibit movement of the float  44  are described herein below. 
     In reference now to FIG. 4, valve housing construction  42  is shown in front side elevational view. One example housing construction  42  shown is a tubular, or cylindrical extension  51  having a bottom or first end  52  and an opposite top or second end  53 . Adjacent to first end  52  of extension  51  is wall member  54 . Wall member  54  functions to contain float  44  (FIG. 3) within the float support region  50  of the valve assembly  40 . Wall member  54  functions as a baffle to shelter float  44  from air flow as it flows from element section  30  (FIG. 1) to outlet  23  (FIG.  3 ). Stated another way, baffle or wall member  54  blocks air flow from hitting float  44  when float  44  is in float support region  50  (FIG. 3) so that air flow does not lift float  44  and position it into valve seat  47  (FIG.  3 ). Wall member  54  defines a drainage aperture  55  therein. Drainage aperture  55  allows liquid to drain from float support member  50 . 
     Adjacent to wall member  54 , valve housing construction  42  can define a cut-away or open window region  56 . Window region  56  defines valve inlet port  46 . Window region  56  is constructed and arranged to allow for air flow to pass therethrough, but it is small enough to prevent float  44  from passing therethrough. That is, a smallest dimension across float  44  is larger than any largest dimension across window region  56 . This is to prevent float  44  from leaving housing construction  42  and traveling to other regions of air cleaner  20 . Therefore, the housing construction  42 , including the size and shape of window region  56 , operates as a cage assembly, in that it is configured and arranged to keep float  44  within housing construction  42  and on its float path between the float support region  50  and valve seat  47 . 
     Still referring to FIG. 4, housing construction  42  can define a tubular or cylindrical outlet tube  58  at the second end  53 . Outlet tube  58  has a largest cross-sectional inside dimension (diameter) that is, for example, smaller than the largest cross-sectional inside dimension (diameter) of extension  51  at tube region  60 . Due to the differences in inside diameters between tube region  60  and outlet tube  58 , valve seat  47  (FIG. 3) is formed at the transition region therebetween. Wall member  54  and tube region  60  have a largest cross-sectional inside dimension (diameter) that is larger than a largest cross-sectional outside dimension of float  44 . If using a spherical float  44 , the largest cross-sectional dimension inside (diameter) of outlet tube  58  is, for example, smaller than the largest cross-sectional diameter of float  44 . In this way, float  44  is allowed to move between float support region  50  and valve seat  47 , and block outlet port  48  when float  44  is seated against valve seat  47  (FIG.  3 ). If the float  44  is shaped in something other than a spherical shape, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the relative relationship between the dimensions of the float  44  and the outlet tube  58  is adjusted such that the float  44  will be permitted to move between the float support region  50  and valve seat  47  and block the outlet port  48  when the float  44  is seated against the valve seat  47  (FIG.  3 ). 
     Referring again to FIG. 3, float  44  is shown in cross-section. In the example shown, float  44  includes a symmetrical construction, such that the orientation of float  44  is irrelevant when it is seated within valve seat  47 . In the embodiment illustrated, float  44  is a spherical ball  62 . For example, ball  62  comprises a material having a density less than that of water, such that it will float in water. One construction of ball  62  may be polypropylene, 0.09 inches (about 2.3 mm) thick. The diameter of ball  62  may be, for example, from about 1-6 inches (about 25.4-152.4 mm), for example, 2.245-2.75 inches (about 57-69.9 mm), or for example, about 2.5 inches (about 63.5 mm). Ball  62 , for example, if having a diameter of 2.5 inches (about 63.5 mm), would be hollow and weigh no more than about 30 grams. 
     Still in reference to FIG. 3, valve housing construction  42  is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of the float  44  along the float path to a position where it is seated within valve seat  47 , unless a selected liquid volume within the housing is attained. That is, unless liquid fills the interior of valve housing construction  42 , housing construction  42  includes structure to prevent the float  44  from being seated within valve seat  47 . 
     As embodied herein, one example valve housing construction  42  comprises projection members  64 ,  65  constructed and arranged to obstruct the float path. As used herein, the term “float path” refers to the region between first end  52  of float support region  50  and valve seat  47 . In the FIG. 3 embodiment, the float path is generally a linear configuration. However, in other embodiments, FIG. 6 for example, the float path is non-linear and may be curved. 
     For example, projection members  64 ,  65  function to interfere with float  44  as it moves from a resting position in float support region  50  and against the wall  32  of outlet assembly  27 . FIG. 3 shows float  44  in a resting position. In the resting position, float  44  is, for example, within float support region  50  and touches and engages wall  32 . It should be understood, however, that a variety of resting positions are contemplated and can include many positions where the float  44  is not seated in valve seat  47  and where float  44  is not within the float support region  50 . 
     While a variety of working embodiments are contemplated herein, in the particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, projection members  64 ,  65  comprise first and second rings  66 ,  67 . First and second rings  66 ,  67  are, for example, eccentrically shaped and eccentrically aligned. 
     Turning now to FIG. 5, second ring  67  is schematically illustrated in top plan. The example ring  67  shown includes an inner rim  68  and an outer rim  69 . Inner rim  68  defines a circular diameter of about 2.51 inches, specifically, about 2.505 inches. Outer rim  69  defines a circular diameter of about 2.9 inches. As also shown in FIG. 5, the circumferential region defined between inner rim  68  and outer rim  69  varies in width between wide portion  70  and narrow portion  71 . The centers of circles defined by inner rim  68  and outer rim  69  are, for example, co-linear and spaced from each other a distance  72  of about 0.10 inches (about 2.5 mm). Second ring  67  defines a cross-sectional thickness of about 0.06 inches (about 1.5 mm). 
     In some constructions, the first ring  66  is analogously constructed as second ring  67 . However, the diameter of the outer rim of first ring  66  is about 2.94 inches (about 74.7 mm). 
     Attention is again directed to FIG.  3 . Note that first and second rings  66  and  67  are, for example, oriented relative to each other such that wide portion  70  of second ring  67  is co-linearly aligned with narrow portion  73  of first ring  66 . Similarly, narrow portion  71  of second ring  67  is aligned with wide portion  74  of first ring  66 . In this manner, the centers defined by each respective inner rim of first and second rings  66 ,  67  are not coaxially aligned. This creates a tortuous, obstructed path for float  44 . 
     In general, it has been found that the preferred first and second rings  66 ,  67  will have offset centers, each of the respective centers being defined by each respective inner rim of the first and second rings  66 ,  67 . The amount of offset depends on factors such as: the vertical distance between inside surfaces of each of the rings  66 ,  67 ; the cross-sectional thickness of each of the rings  66 ,  67 ; and the diameter of the float  44 . For example, in the FIG. 3 embodiment, the vertical distance between rings  66 ,  67  is about 1.03 inches (about 26.2 mm). The cross-sectional thickness of each of the rings  66 ,  67  is about 0.06 inches (about 1.5 mm). The diameter of the float  44  is about 2.5 inches (about 63.5 mm). For these dimensions, an offset between rings  66 ,  67  is, for example, about 0.10 inch (about 2.5 mm). 
     Other dimensions which may be used for constructions herein are described below in Table 1. 
     
       
         
           
               
               
               
               
               
             
               
                 TABLE 1 
               
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                   
                   
                 Ring 
               
               
                   
                 Ring 
                 Float 
                   
                 Inside 
               
               
                 Vertical Distance 
                 Thickness 
                 Diameter 
                 Offset 
                 Diameter 
               
               
                   
               
             
            
               
                 at least 1.03 in. 
                 0.06 in. 
                 2.500 in. 
                 0.10 in. 
                 2.505 in. 
               
               
                 (about 26.2 mm) 
                 (about 1.5 mm) 
                 (about 63.5 
                  (about 
                 (about 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mm) 
                 2.5 mm) 
                 63.6 mm) 
               
               
                 at least 1.19 in. 
                 0.06 in. 
                 2.500 in 
                 0.38 in. 
                 2.505 in. 
               
               
                 (about 30.2 mm) 
                 (about 1.5 mm) 
                 (about 63.5 
                 (about 
                 (about 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mm) 
                 9.5 mm) 
                 63.6 mm) 
               
               
                 at least 1.03 in. 
                 0.06 in. 
                 2.750 in. 
                 0.20 in. 
                 2.755 in. 
               
               
                 (about 26.2 mm) 
                 (about 1.5 mm) 
                 (about 69.9 
                 (about 
                 (about 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mm) 
                 5.1 mm) 
                 70 mm) 
               
               
                 at least 1.19 in. 
                 0.06 in. 
                 2.250 in. 
                 0.38 in. 
                 2.255 in. 
               
               
                 (about 30.2 mm) 
                 (about 1.5 mm) 
                 (about 57.2 
                 (about 
                 (about 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mm) 
                 9.7 mm) 
                 57.3 mm) 
               
               
                 at least 0.90 in. 
                 0.06 in. 
                 2.250 in. 
                 0.20 in. 
                 2.255 in. 
               
               
                 (about 22.9 mm) 
                 (about 1.5 mm) 
                 (about 57.2 
                 (about  
                 (about 
               
               
                   
                   
                 mm) 
                 5.1 mm) 
                 57.3 mm) 
               
               
                   
               
            
           
         
       
     
     One preferred relationship is between the diameter of the float  44  and the inside diameter of the rings  66 ,  67 . It has been found that if the inside diameter of the rings  66 ,  67  is, for example, about 0.005 in. (about 0.13 mm) greater than the diameter of the float  44 , it leads to a convenient, preferred arrangement. 
     A tortuous, obstructed path for float  44  is created by arrangements of the rings  66 ,  67  as described herein. For example, if vibration causes float  44  to move from its resting position shown in FIG. 3 to pass through first ring  66 , it bumps into the circumferential band  75  of second ring  67 . This prevents float  44  from traveling any further toward the valve seat  47 . However, if liquid begins to fill housing construction  42 , float  44  will float on the surface of the liquid and rise as the level rises, where it will easily travel between first and second rings  66 ,  67 . 
     While the embodiment of FIG. 3 shows rings  66 ,  67  radially lining the cylindrical tube of wall member  54 , it should be understood that other operative embodiments are contemplated. For example, first and second rings  66 ,  67  need not be complete rings. Instead, they may be a series of projections or studs, non-joined to one another. 
     In certain example constructions, housing construction  42  comprises a unitary, molded construction made of plastic. Rings  66 ,  67  are also plastic, and are secured to the interior of wall member  54  through standard techniques, such as adhesive bonding. Rings  66 ,  67  may also be molded as part of the housing construction  42 . 
     In other embodiments, housing construction  42  may be a wire cage. The wire cage can include wire rings in place of the rings  66  and  67 . The wire cage is bent, such that the rings are not coaxially aligned. That is, the cage is bent in a non-linear or curved configuration. This provides an offset between the rings. If vibration or bounce occurs, the float will not have a clear path to its valve seat, due to the curved configuration of the wire cage and the placement of the wire rings. In another embodiment, instead of rings  66 ,  67 , horizontal partitions with offset holes can be used. 
     Turning again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, one example valve seat  47  is illustrated as including a flexible seal member  76 . For example, seal member  76  comprises a circular ring with opposite first and second surfaces  77 ,  78 . In FIG. 3, note that seal member  76  is spaced from the wall of the outlet tube construction  29  to form a gap  79  therebetween. The gap  79  allows the seal member  76  to flex within gap  79  when float  44  engages it. For example, when float  44  engages seal member  76 , a seal is formed between the seal member  76  and the float  44  to prohibit the passage of fluid therebetween. Further, the seal member  76  is flexible such that it helps to form the seal with the float  44 , yet it prevents float  44  from sticking in the seal member  76 . In certain example arrangements, the seal member  76  can have a thickness of about 0.06 inches. (about 1.5 mm), and an inner diameter for example the same as the inner diameter of the tube construction  29 . In one example arrangement, the inner diameter of the seal member  76  is about 2.38 inches (about 6 cm). For example, the seal member  76  and the outlet tube construction  29  form gap  79  having a height of about 0.06 inches (about 1.5 mm). 
     In operation, during normal conditions when air cleaner  20  is above any level of liquid, float  44  is held within float support region  50 . Air is being filtered through air cleaner  20  by passing from inlet  22 , through filter element  24 , into outlet assembly  27 , through inlet port  46 , out through outlet tube  23 , and into an engine. As the vehicle, and, therefore the air cleaner  20 , move, the air cleaner  20  may be subject to significant vibration due to bumps in the road, uneven road conditions, etc. As air cleaner  20  vibrates or bounces, float  44  is maintained within float support region  50  and away from valve seat  47 , due to rings  66 ,  67 . That is, float  44  may be jarred from, jiggled, or forced away from engaging wall  32  and wall  54 , but bump up against ring  66  and then bounce to bump up against ring  67 . Due to the relative positioning of rings  66  and  67  and their orientation with respect to each other, float  44  is impeded from advancing further toward valve seat  47 . If the vehicle is driven into deep liquid or water to a level which is above the inlet  22  of housing  21 , the liquid enters inlet  22 , travels through filter element, and eventually reaches outlet assembly  27 . As the level of liquid begins to rise within outlet assembly  27  and valve assembly  40 , float  44  floats on the surface of the water or liquid. As the liquid rises, float  44  floats on the surface of the liquid through the ring  66  and the ring  67 , until it eventually sits within valve seat  47  to block the air outlet  23 . As the liquid level gets the float  44  close to the outlet  23 , air flow forces drag, and/or vacuum facilitate the float  44  seating quickly in the valve seat  47  to block the outlet  23 . When float  44  blocks air outlet  23 , the air intake to the engine is cut off, and the engine shuts down. Float  44  also prevents the liquid or water from being passed or sucked into the engine. Float  44  stays positioned in valve seat  47  until the liquid level falls, even if the engine is turned off. As the liquid level falls, for example, if the vehicle is pushed out of the region of high water, the liquid is allowed to drain through aperture  25 . The liquid does not become trapped within float support member  50 , because of drain aperture  55 . Therefore, the liquid or water is allowed to eventually drain through aperture  25 . Aperture  25  is generally the lowest part of the air cleaner  20 , when oriented on a vehicle. As the liquid level falls, the float  44  falls from within valve seat  47 . This permits the engine to again be started, where air is allowed to flow through the air cleaner and out through the outlet tube  23  into the engine. 
     Attention is now directed to FIG.  6 . In FIG. 6, a second embodiment of a valve assembly is depicted generally at  80 . In FIG. 6, the example valve assembly  80  includes a housing  81 . Housing  81  includes a float support region  82 , a cage region  83  and an outlet tube  84 . Outlet tube  84  defines an outlet aperture  85  and a valve seat  86 . 
     As can be seen in FIG. 6, the example outlet tube  84  includes an inner wall  88  tapered between a region of largest diameter at outlet aperture  85  to a region of smallest diameter at valve seat  86 . A spherical float  90  is shown seated within valve seat  86 . FIG. 6 depicts float  90  in a position when liquid has filled the air cleaner housing, including the outlet assembly  27 , to cause float  90  to become removably lodged in or seated within valve seat  86  and block fluid flow through outlet aperture  85 . 
     The valve seat  86  can include a flexible seal member, analogous to that described at  76  in conjunction with FIG.  3 . 
     Still in reference to FIG. 6, float support region  82  comprises a cup  92 , for example. The example cup  92  shown is shaped and configured to snugly conform to the shape of spherical float  90 . Specifically, the particular cup  92  shown has a cross section which is generally U-shaped. For example, it includes a hemispherically shaped portion  94 . Hemispherically shaped portion  94  defines, at its lowest portion, an aperture  96 . 
     When float  90  is in its resting position, i.e. during normal engine operation and location above liquid levels, float  90  rests within cup  92  and against hemispherically shaped portion  94 . If liquid begins to fill housing  81 , float  90  will float at the surface of the liquid level out of cup  92  and be guided by cage region  83  into valve seat  86 . 
     The example cage region  83  functions to allow for the free passage of air through cage region  83 , while maintaining float  90  within its path between cup  92  and valve seat  86 . Cage region  83 , in this embodiment, comprises a plurality of elongate members  98  in extension between cup  92  and outlet tube  84 . In this example, there are four members  98 . In one example, extension members  98  are constructed of wire. 
     Aperture  96  operates as a drainage hole, in order to help drain liquid from housing  81  after liquid has entered housing  81 . 
     Valve housing  81  is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of float  90  along its float path to the valve seat  86 , unless liquid fills the housing  81 . In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the example valve housing construction  42  included projection members or ring constructions. In the FIG. 6 embodiment, float  90  is restrained by suction or vacuum pressure. 
     Specifically, the relationship between the inner diameter of the cup  92 , diameter of the float  90 , axial length of the cup  92  and weight of the float  90  are selected such that pneumatic dampening occurs. 
     In general, if the float  90  is shook or vibrated, the float  90  will move from the portion  94  within the cup  92 . As the float  90  moves axially along the cup  92 , the volume between the float  90  and the portion  94  increases. This increase in volume causes a pressure drop in the volume between the float  90  and portion  94 . The drop in pressure results in a pressure differential across the float  90  between the volume inside of the cup  94  (i.e., between the portion  94  and the float  90 ) and the volume outside of the cup  92 . Specifically, the pressure within the cup  92  is less than the pressure outside of the cup  92 . This region of decreased pressure acts as vacuum to suck or draw the float  90  back toward portion  94 . In other words, as the float  90  moves away from portion  94 , the increase in volume (and thus the decrease in pressure) occurs faster than air can get into the volume between the float  90  and portion  94 , which results in a volume of decreased pressure below the float  90  (within cup  92 ) as compared to above the float  90  (outside of cup  92 ). The net decrease in pressure results in a vacuum, which acts to restrict movement of the float  90  toward the valve seat  86 . 
     Example constructions include the inner diameter of the cup being about 1.01-6.01 inches (about 25.7-152.7 mm), for example, about 2.25-2.75 inches (about 57.2-69.9 mm), and for example about 2.4 inches (about 61.0 mm). The outer diameter of float  90  is, for example, about 1-6 inches (about 25.4-152.4 mm), for example about 2.24-2.74 inches (about 56.9-69.6 mm), and for example about 2.39 inches (about 60.7 mm). Therefore, the ratio of the inner diameter of cup  92  to outer diameter of float  90  is about 1.004. That is, for example, the inner diameter of the cup  92  is no more than about 0.4% larger than the outer diameter of the float  90 . 
     In certain constructions, cup  92  has an axial length of about 1.55-6.05 inches (about 39.4-153.7 mm), for example, about 2.55-3.05 inches (about 64.8-77.5 mm), and, for example, about 2.7 inches (about 68.6 mm). Typically, float  90  is constructed of polypropylene material, weighs about 30 grams, and has a density less than one gram per cubic centimeter. Drainage aperture  96  typically has a diameter of, for example, about 0.06-0.12 inches (about 1.5-3.0 mm), and, for example, about 0.09 inches (about 2.3 mm). Thus, the ratio of the diameter of the drainage aperture  96  to the inner diameter of the cup  92  is about 0.038. That is, for example, the inner diameter of the cup  92  is about 26.67 times larger than the diameter of the drainage aperture  96 . Drainage aperture  96  cannot be made too large, or else it will destroy the suction or vacuum pressure induced between the wall of cup  92  and float  90 . That is, it will allow air to rush into the volume of the cup  92  below the float  90  as fast as the volume below the float  90  increases. 
     In certain constructions, the axial length of the cup  92  and the outer diameter of the float  90  are selected for certain, preferred applications. In one example construction, the axial length of the cup  92  is from ½ to 5 times the length of the outer diameter of the float  90 . In other words, the ratio of the axial length of the float  90  to the outer diameter of the float  90  is between 1:2 and 5:1. In one example construction, the ratio is 2.7:1. 
     In operation, during normal conditions when air cleaner  20  is above any level of liquid, float  90  is held within float support region  82  within cup  92 . Air is being filtered through air cleaner  20  by passing from inlet  22 , through filter element  24 , into outlet assembly  27 , through cage region  83 , out through outlet aperture  85 , and into an engine. As the vehicle, and therefore the air cleaner  20 , move, the air cleaner  20  may be subject to significant vibration due to bumps in the road, uneven road conditions, etc. As air cleaner  20  vibrates or bounces, float  90  is maintained within cup  92 , due to pneumatic dampening. That is, float  90  may be jarred from or forced away from inner wall of hemispherically shaped portion  94 , but due to the dimensional relationship between float  90  and cup  92 , suction is induced which keeps float  90  within cup  92  and away from valve seat  86 . If the vehicle is driven into deep liquid or water to a level which is above the inlet  22  of housing  21 , the liquid enters inlet  22 , travels through filter element  24 , and eventually reaches outlet assembly  27 . As the level of liquid begins to rise within outlet assembly  27  and valve assembly  80 , float  90  floats on the surface of the liquid. As the liquid rises, float  90  rises out of cup  92 , and, as the liquid level gets the float  90  close to the outlet  85 , air flow forces, drag, and/or vacuum facilitate the float  90  seating quickly to rest in valve seat  86  to block the outlet  85 . No vacuum or suction is induced between float  90  and cup  92  because of the float buoyancy. When float  90  blocks air outlet aperture  85 , the air intake to the engine is cut off, and the engine shuts down. Float  90  also prevents the liquid or water from being passed or sucked into the engine. As the liquid level falls, for example, if the vehicle is pushed out of the region of high water, the liquid is allowed to drain through aperture  96  and aperture  25 . As the liquid level falls, the float  90  falls from or becomes unseated from valve seat  86 . This permits the engine to again be started, where air is allowed to flow through the air cleaner and out through outlet aperture  85  into the engine. 
     Turning now to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a valve assembly is shown generally at  110 . In FIG.  7 . valve assembly  110  is, in the example shown, constructed within an outlet assembly, such as outlet assembly  27  of air cleaner housing  21 . A float  112  moves between a float support region  113  and a valve seat  115 . When float  112  is positioned within valve seat  115 , (shown in phantom in FIG.  7 ), float  112  blocks fluid flow through outlet tube construction  117  and outlet aperture  118 . As with the other embodiments described above, when float  112  is seated within valve seat  115 , it cuts off air flow into the engine, which causes the engine to shut down. This also prevents the intake of water or liquid into the engine. 
     Also shown in FIG. 7 is a guidewire  120 . For example, guidewire  120  is oriented between the float support region  113  and the end  121  of outlet tube construction  117 . As such, guidewire  120  passes through the outlet port  122  and through the valve seat  115 , for example. The preferred float  112  includes an open-slotted portion  123  to slideably accommodate guidewire  120 . As such, guidewire  120  functions to guide float  112  between its resting position at float support region  113  along a path to valve seat  115 . 
     Note the shape of guidewire  120 . It is a nonlinear, curved shape. As such, it gives float  112  a nonlinear or curved float path. This nonlinear float path helps to prevent float  112  from being seated within valve seat  115  due only to vibration or shaking. As with the FIG. 3 embodiment, this FIG. 7 embodiment can include a seal ring or member at valve seat  115 , analogous to seal member  76  in FIG.  3 . 
     Valve assembly  110  is constructed and arranged to inhibit movement of float  112  along its float path to the valve seat  115 , unless a selected liquid volume within the housing is attained. As embodied herein, valve assembly  110  includes a magnet  125  located in the float support region  113 . Float  112  is constructed of a material attracted to magnet  125 , for example, a metallic material. The attractive force between the magnet  125  and the float  112  is strong enough to keep float  112  generally in its resting position against float support region  113  when the air cleaner is operated during normal conditions and above a level of liquid or water. The attractive force of magnet  125  is such that when liquid begins to fill the outlet assembly  27 , float  112  is dislodged from magnet  125  and allowed to rise with the level of liquid. Typically, attractive forces of magnets and floats are slightly less than the buoyancy of the float  112 . One useful attractive force between the magnet and the float  112  is about 70-90 grams, for a float with a weight of 30 grams and a diameter of 2.5 in. 
     Turning now to FIGS. 8-11, alternative shapes for float  112  are illustrated. The floats in FIGS. 8-11 are more compact than the spherical design of the embodiments described above and may be easier to fit in the desired air cleaner to be used. The shapes in FIGS. 8-11 are also inclined to minimize the forces of air flow being drawn through the air cleaner. As such, the shapes of FIGS. 8-11, can prevent the floats from being drawn to the valve seat merely by high velocity flow of air through the air cleaner. Note that in each of the float embodiments of FIGS. 8-11, a bottom surface is flat. Also, each of the float designs of FIGS. 8-11 include circular tops for engagement with the valve seat. This is to ensure that float orientation within the valve seat is irrelevant. 
     In FIG. 8, a float  130  having a spherical-shaped top  131  for engaging the valve seat is shown. 
     In FIG. 9, a truncated or oblated cone-shaped float  132  is shown. Float  132  includes a flat surface at both end  133 , which does not engage the valve seat, and end  134 , which does engage the valve seat. 
     FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate floats shaped with low profiles. In FIG. 10, float  135  has a partial spherical-shaped top. This can be seen at rounded curved surface  136 . Both the end  137 , which engages the valve seat, and the end  138 , which is opposite to end  137 , are flat. 
     In FIG. 11, a truncated cone-shaped float  139  is illustrated. Float  139  is analogous to float  132  (see FIG.  9 ), but is shorter. 
     Attention is now directed to FIGS. 12A and 12B. In FIGS. 12A and 12B, another alternative valve assembly is shown generally at  140 . Valve assembly  140  includes a float  141  and a valve seat  142 . Float  141 , for example, includes an outlet sealing disk  143 . Outlet sealing disk  143  will serve to seat within valve seat  142  and block air flow and liquid intake through outlet tube  144 . 
     Float  141  is, for example, mounted to a hinged arm or linkage  145 . Linkage  145  locates the float  141  in its resting position or stored position on the bottom of the housing (FIG. 12A) and guides sealing disk  143  into the opening of the outlet tube  144  or valve seat  142  when liquid enters the region. Specifically, as liquid enters the region, float  141  starts to rise. As float  141  rises, it pushes the linkage  145 . As shown in FIG. 12B, the linkage  145  acts on and causes the sealing disk  143  to form a seal in the valve seat  142 . In this manner, the outlet tube  144  is sealed closed prior to the entire housing becoming full of liquid (FIG.  12 B). As the liquid in the housing starts to decrease, the float  141  drops. The drop of the float  141  pulls the linkage  145  downwardly, which pulls the sealing disk  143  out from within valve seat  142  and back to its resting position oriented over float  141  (FIG.  12 A). A magnet, such as that illustrated in FIG. 7, may be utilized to maintain the float  141  in its stored or resting position. 
     FIGS. 13A and 13B show another embodiment of a valve assembly  150 . Valve assembly  150  is analogous to valve assembly  140 . Valve assembly  150 , for example, includes a float  153  and a valve seat  154 . The example float  153  includes an outlet sealing disk  156 . Outlet sealing disk  156  is analogous to sealing disk  143  (FIGS.  12 A and  12 B). A linkage  158 , for example analogous to linkage  145 , locates the float  153  in its resting position on the bottom of the housing (FIG. 13A) and guides sealing disk  156  to the valve seat  154 . An extension spring  152 , for example, cooperates with linkage  158  to provide a more positive seal. Specifically, in the example illustrated, spring  152  acts as an “over-center” spring. In the down position (FIG.  13 A), the spring  152  holds the float  153  down on the bottom of the housing. As liquid enters the region, the float  153  rises. As the float  153  rises, it acts on linkage  158 , which pushes on sealing disk  156 . When the spring  152  is moved over-center, it pulls the sealing disk  156  into the valve seat  154  (FIG.  13 B). To operate, the density of the float  153  is greater than the strength of the spring  152 . 
     Again, as with the FIG. 12A,  12 B embodiment and FIG. 7 embodiment, a magnet may be used to inhibit movement of the float  153  from traveling to the valve seat  154 , unless water is in the region. 
     FIG. 14 shows another embodiment of a valve assembly  170 . The example valve assembly  170  includes a float  172  and a valve seat  174 . Float  172  is, for example, shaped and configured relative to valve seat  174  to fit within valve seat  174  and block fluid flow communication (i.e., either liquid flow or gas flow) between the volume  175  of outlet assembly housing  176  and outlet tube  178 . 
     Valve assembly  170  includes structure to guide the float  172  between a first position where the float  172  is positioned within the float support region of the outlet assembly housing  176  and a second position where the float  172  is positioned within the valve seat  174  to obstruct the outlet port  179 . While a variety of embodiments have been described thus far and are contemplated herein, in this particular embodiment, the structure, for example, includes a hinge and arm assembly  180 . The example hinge and arm assembly  180  comprises a hinge or plate  181  secured to outlet assembly housing  176 . Arms  182  are, for example, pivotally secured to hinge plate  181 . Arms  182  operate to secure the float  172  to the hinge plate  181 , and move the float  172  between its first and second positions. The phantom lines illustrate the float  172  moving from its first position (where it is resting against the outlet assembly housing  176 ) toward the second position (where it is resting within the valve seat  174 ). 
     An optional magnet  184  and metal plate  185  may be used to help inhibit movement of the float  172  along its float path to the second position, unless liquid starts to fill the volume  175 . If liquid does start to fill the volume  175 , the buoyancy of the float  172  will be sufficient to overcome the force between the magnet  184  and metal plate  185 . The float  172  will move along its float path toward the valve seat  174 , guided by the hinge and arm assembly  180 . As can be seen in phantom, the arms  182  permit the float  172  to rotate into a proper orientation to block the outlet port  179 . 
     FIG. 15 shows another embodiment of a valve assembly  200 . The example valve assembly  200  includes a float  201  and valve seat  202 . Float  201  is, for example, shaped and configured relative to valve seat  202  to block fluid flow communication (i.e., liquid or gas flow) between volume  203  of outlet assembly housing  204  and volume  205  within outlet tube  206 . 
     In the example shown, float  201  is cylindrical in shape with a circular cross section. The particular preferred float  201  shown in FIG. 15 includes a support structure  208  and a sealing structure  209 . When sealing structure  209  engages valve seat  202 , it forms a seal  210  (FIG. 16) therebetween. The seal  210  blocks fluid flow into the volume  205  of the outlet tube  206 . 
     Referring again to FIG. 15, valve assembly  200  includes, for example, structure to guide the float  201  between open positions and a closed or sealed position. In the first or resting or open positions, the float  201  is not abutting or engaging the valve seat  202 . Typically, the float  201  will be positioned within a float support region  211  of the outlet assembly housing  204  when the valve assembly  200  is in open positions. While a variety of embodiments have been described thus far and are contemplated herein, in this specific embodiment, the structure for example includes a guidewire  212 . Guidewire  212  creates a torturous path for the float  201  between its resting position, FIG. 15, and its closed or sealed position, FIG.  16 . Specifically, guidewire  212  includes a non-linear extension shown generally at  214 . Non-linear extension  214  operates to introduce obstruction to the path between the resting position of float  201  and the closed or sealed position of float  201 . More specifically, non-linear extension  214  for example comprises bend or kink or projection  215 . Projection  215  resembles a smooth wave  216 , in the cross-sectional view shown in FIG.  15 . 
     For example, projection  215  interferes with float  201  as it moves from the resting position in float support region  211  to the closed or sealed position shown in FIG.  16 . For example, if vibration causes float  201  to move from its resting position shown in FIG. 15, it bumps into the projection  215  of the guidewire  212 . This prevents float  201  from traveling any further toward the valve seat  202 . If liquid begins to fill the housing construction, however, float  201  will float on the surface of the liquid and rise as the level rises, where it will easily travel over and traverse the projection  215  toward the valve seat  202 . 
     In the example shown, guidewire  212  extends between a bottom of valve assembly  200  and region within outlet tube  206 . For example, it should extend long enough such that the float  201  remains trapped in its guide path between its resting position in FIG.  15  and its closed position shown in FIG.  16 . In the specific preferred embodiment shown, the guidewire  212  extends into the volume  205  of the outlet tube  206 . 
     As can be seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, float  201  includes a guidewire housing slot  213  extending therethrough. Guidewire housing  213  slideably accommodates the guidewire  212  and allows the float  201  to slideably move along its float path between open positions and its closed position, FIG.  16 . 
     Attention is directed to FIG.  16 . In FIG. 16, it can be seen that sealing structure  209  has an outermost dimension which is greater than the outermost dimension of the valve seat  202 . If circular, the sealing structure  209  has a diameter which is greater than the diameter, if circular, of the valve seat  202 . This permits the valve assembly  200  to be closed to liquid flow therethrough. 
     In operation, during normal conditions when the air cleaner is above any level of liquid, the float  201  is held within the float support region  211 . Air is filtered through the air cleaner, as normal. As the vehicle and therefore the air cleaner move, the air cleaner may be subject to vibration. As the air cleaner vibrates or bounces, the float  201  is maintained within the float support region  211  and away from the valve seat  202  due to the non-linear extension  214 . If the vehicle is driven into deep liquid or water to a level which is above the inlet of the housing, the liquid reaches the outlet assembly housing  204 , and the float  201  floats on the surface of the water or liquid. As the liquid rises, the float  201  floats on the surface of the water and around the projection  215 . As the liquid rises and gets the float  201  close to the outlet  206 , air flow forces, drag, and/or vacuum facilitate the float  201  seating quickly in the valve seat  202  to block the outlet  206 . When float  201  blocks the air outlet  206 , the air intake to the engine is cut off, and the engine shuts down. The float  201  also prevents the liquid or water from being passed or sucked into the engine. The float  201  stays positioned on the valve seat  202  until the liquid level falls, even if the engine is turned off. As the liquid level falls, the liquid is allowed to drain through an aperture  220  in the outlet assembly housing  204 , and an aperture in the housing (for example, aperture  25 , FIG.  1 ). As the liquid level falls, the float  201  falls from the valve seat  202 . This permits the engine to again be started, where air is allowed to flow through the air cleaner and out through the outlet tube  206  into the engine. 
     One example construction 
     In the following paragraphs, specific examples of a valve assembly are described. The valve assembly described is that as shown in FIGS. 2-5. It is understood, of course, that alternative constructions and dimensions may be utilized. 
     Outlet assembly  27  has a largest cross-sectional dimension at region where outlet assembly  27  joins filter element section  30  of about 7-7.25 inches (about 177.8-184.2 mm), for example, about 7.1 inches (about 180.3 mm). The width of outlet assembly  27  is about 3.8-4.2 inches (about 96.5-106.7 mm), for example, about 4 inches (about 101.6 mm). Outlet tube  48  of valve construction housing  42  has an inner diameter of about 2.3-2.5 inches (about 58.4-63.5 mm), for example, about 2.4 inches (about 61.0 mm). It has an outer diameter of about 2.6-2.9 inches (about 66-73.7 mm), for example, about 2.75 inches (about 69.9 mm). Housing construction  42  has a height between end  52  and end  53  of about 10-11 inches (about 254-279.4 mm), for example, about 10.6 inches (about 269.2 mm). 
     Wall member  54  extends between first end  52  and window region  56  about 3.5-3.7 inches (about 88.9-94.0 mm), for example, about 3.6 inches (about 91.4 mm). The inner diameter of float support region  50  is about 2.8-3 inches (about 71.1-76.2 mm), for example, about 2.9 inches (about 73.7 mm). 
     First ring  66  is located a distance of about 2.3-2.5 inches (about 58.4-63.5 mm), for example, about 2.4 inches (about 61.0 mm) from first end  52 . Second ring  67  is located a distance of about 3.4-3.6 inches (about 86.4-91.4 mm), for example, about 3.5 inches (about 88.9 mm) from first end  52 . Valve assembly  40  is used in an air cleaner housing  21  having a nominal size of about 5 in.×7 in., (about 127×177.8 mm) oval. It is used to filter air intake in engines having sizes typically of about 2-8 liter piston displacement and horsepower of about 100-300 (about 75 kw to 224 kw). 
     For example, the ratio of the float diameter to the valve seat inside diameter is at least 1.05. For example, a 2.5 in. diameter float would have a valve seat no larger than 2.38 in. 
     The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the invention. Many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.