Patent ID: 7041217

Claim:
A filter ring comprising a first filter member including a first end portion, a second filter member including a second end portion, at least one snap latch mechanism for detachably engaging the first end portion with the second end portion such that the first and second filter members cooperate to define a generally annular shape having a central opening, the snap latch mechanism including at least one protrusion projecting outwardly from at least one of the first and second end portions, and at least one complementary shaped cutout extending inwardly into the other of said first and second end portions, the first end portion further including at least one key projecting outwardly from at least one axial face of the first end portion and having a radial thickness less than the filter ring's radial thickness, the second end portion further including at least one keyway extending inwardly into at least one axial face of the second end portion and having a radial thickness less than the filter ring's radial thickness, the at least one key configured to be positioned within the at least one keyway for inhibiting disengagement of the protrusion and cutout of the snap latch mechanism when the snap latch mechanism is detachably engaging the first end portion with the second end portion.