Water separation group

Abstract

A water separation assembly (1) includes: - a body (10) extending along a main axis (X-X) and defining a separation chamber (100) therein, and including an outlet wall (12) including at least one outlet nozzle (120) from which clean fuel flows out; - a separator device (2) housed in the separation chamber (100) and fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle (120), and further including a support structure (20) and a separation surface (21). The support structure (20) includes at least one channel opening (200), and the separation surface (21) is arranged laterally relative to the channel opening (200); a barrier device (3) is positioned below the separator device (2) to divide the separation chamber (100) into a separation area (100') and a collection area (100"); the separator device (2) is housed in the separation area (100'), and water separated from the fuel is collected in the collection area (100").

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a water separator assembly for use in a vehicle's fuel cycle system for fuel filtration and separation, and to a fuel filtration and separation assembly including said water separator assembly.

[0002] This invention pertains to the automotive field. Specifically, it relates to a fuel (preferably diesel) filtration and separation assembly located upstream of the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. In other words, fuel exiting from such a filtration and separation assembly flows towards the engine assembly into the fuel circulation system.

[0003] Specifically, these components have a dual function: their purpose is to filter fuel to remove any suspended particulate matter and / or impurities that may damage downstream components of the fuel cycle system (such as engine units or high-pressure pumps); they also have the purpose of separating any water particles in the fuel that may damage downstream components of the fuel cycle system (such as injectors) and / or may cause non-optimal combustion. Background Technology

[0004] Various fuel filtration and separation components with the aforementioned dual functionality are known in the prior art.

[0005] Specifically, fuel filtering and separating assemblies are known to have a vertical extension, i.e., adapted for installation in a vehicle and to operate in a generally vertical position. Such assemblies have a filtering and / or separating assembly in their upper part, adapted to perform a corresponding action on the fuel, and a water collection chamber in their lower part, in which water separated from the fuel accumulates by gravity.

[0006] An example of this type of fuel filtration and separation assembly is shown in document EP0858825.

[0007] However, it is not always possible to have fuel filtering and separation components in a vertical position in a vehicle.

[0008] Therefore, embodiments of fuel filter and separator components are also known, which have a horizontal extension, i.e., are suitable for installation in a vehicle and are installed generally horizontally.

[0009] However, such fuel filtration and separation components with horizontal extension have significant technical drawbacks.

[0010] In fact, these known components perform the separation of water and fuel very inefficiently, but most importantly, they perform very poorly in collecting the water separated from the fuel.

[0011] Therefore, known water filtration and separation assemblies have particularly complex and bulky geometries. In fact, in known embodiments of fuel filtration and separation assemblies, the water collection chamber is positioned relatively low relative to the filtration device. In other words, while known water filtration and separation assemblies extend horizontally, they also have at least a partially vertical extension for providing a water collection chamber at the bottom.

[0012] Technical solutions with horizontally extended fuel filtration and separation components, as described in such documents EP2399019 and DE102006005108, are shown. Summary of the Invention

[0013] Therefore, there is a strong need to provide a water separation assembly for a horizontally extended fuel separation and filtration component, in which the aforementioned problems are solved. Similarly, there is a strong need to provide a fuel separation and filtration component that includes such a water separation assembly.

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide a water separation assembly for a fuel filtration and separation component in a vehicle's fuel circulation system. The separation assembly extends along a longitudinal axis LL and is horizontally disposed within the vehicle. It includes a filter assembly for filtering suspended solids and impurities from dirty fuel. A water separation assembly is connected in series with the filter assembly along the longitudinal axis LL and is fluidly connected to receive the filtered fuel. The water separation assembly includes:

[0015] - A main body, which can be combined with a filter assembly and extends along a main axis XX, wherein, in the configuration of the water separation assembly and the filter assembly, the main axis XX and the longitudinal axis LL are substantially parallel and / or coincident, wherein the main body defines a separation chamber therein and includes an outlet wall at an axial end, the outlet wall including at least one outlet nozzle from which clean fuel flows out;

[0016] - A separator device, housed in the separation chamber, fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle, extending longitudinally from the outlet wall, and including a support structure having at least one channel opening through which fuel flows, wherein the separator device includes a separation surface arranged laterally relative to the channel opening;

[0017] - A barrier device, positioned below the separator device, divides the separation chamber into a separation area and a collection area; the separator device is housed in the separation area, and water separated from the fuel is collected in the collection area, wherein the barrier device is adapted to prevent water from returning to the separation area.

[0018] The water separation units perform the separation operation in an efficient and effective manner, but most importantly, they have a simple and compact geometry, which limits the vertical dimensions as much as possible. Specifically, these components have a dual function: their purpose is to filter fuel to remove any suspended particulate matter and / or impurities that may damage downstream components of the fuel cycle system (e.g., engine assembly or high-pressure pump); they also have the purpose of separating any water particles in the fuel that may damage downstream components of the fuel cycle system (e.g., injectors) and / or may cause suboptimal combustion.

[0019] In one embodiment, the barrier device includes a barrier surface extending in a longitudinal direction at an angle to the direction of the main shaft XX, such that at least a portion of the barrier surface is tilted to allow water separated from the fuel to flow to the outlet wall.

[0020] In one embodiment, the barrier device further includes at least one drainage channel extending in a longitudinal direction to form an angle opposite to the angle formed by the barrier surface, such that water separated by the separation device flows from the separation area to the collection area in a dual sliding direction, the dual sliding direction including a sliding direction of water on the barrier surface flowing toward the outlet wall and a sliding direction of water on the drainage channel flowing away from the outlet wall.

[0021] In one embodiment, the barrier device includes two drainage channels arranged on the side of the barrier surface.

[0022] In one embodiment, the barrier device includes at least one channel opening adapted to fluidly connect the separation area and the collection area.

[0023] In one embodiment, the channel opening is formed on the side of the barrier surface.

[0024] In one embodiment, the barrier device includes a fuel inlet channel adapted to deliver filtered fuel from the filter assembly to the separation device.

[0025] In one embodiment, the fuel inlet channel extends longitudinally relative to the main shaft XX at an angle different from the angle at which the barrier surface is inclined.

[0026] In one embodiment, the angle of the fuel inlet channel relative to the main shaft XX direction is the opposite angle to the angle of inclination of the barrier surface.

[0027] In one embodiment, the support structure includes multiple channel openings with multiple separation surfaces, wherein the separation surfaces are arranged at an angle relative to the direction of the main shaft XX, so that the separation surfaces gradually move away from the outlet wall and converge.

[0028] In one embodiment, the separating surface includes an upper separating surface and a lower separating surface, the lower separating surface facing the barrier surface.

[0029] In one embodiment, the barrier surface is tilted to form an angle with the direction of the main shaft XX, the angle being approximately equal to the tilt angle of the separation surface, such that the barrier surface is parallel to the separation surface adjacent to it, and when the separation surface includes an upper separation surface and a lower separation surface, the barrier surface is parallel to the lower separation surface.

[0030] In one embodiment, the separation surface is arranged orthogonally to the direction of the main axis XX.

[0031] In one embodiment, the support structure is covered with a hydrophobic filter section to form a corresponding separation surface at each channel opening.

[0032] In one embodiment, the body includes an inlet wall with at least one inlet nozzle adapted to be in fluid connection with the filter assembly, thereby allowing the filtered fuel to enter the separation chamber.

[0033] In one embodiment, the body includes an insert bushing that can be fitted onto the filter assembly to perform longitudinal insertion between the water separation assembly and the filter assembly.

[0034] Another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel filtration and separation assembly for a vehicle's fuel circulation system, extending along a longitudinal axis LL and horizontally disposed in the vehicle, the fuel filtration and separation assembly comprising:

[0035] i) Fuel filter assembly, used to filter suspended solid particles and impurities in dirty fuel;

[0036] ii) The water separation unit as described above is used to separate water from the filtered fuel;

[0037] The water separation unit can be fluidly connected to a filter unit positioned in series along the longitudinal axis LL.

[0038] In one embodiment, the fuel filter assembly and the water separator assembly have a plug-and-socket type interlocking, each having an insertion portion and a corresponding receiving portion, the insertion portion extending from the corresponding fuel filter assembly or water separator assembly, and the receiving portion adapted to accommodate the insertion portion.

[0039] In one embodiment, the fuel filter assembly is tubular, having an extension that is generally axially symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis LL.

[0040] In one embodiment, the fuel filtration and separation assembly further includes a fuel heating assembly that can be coupled longitudinally to the fuel filtration assembly at its end opposite the water separation assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Further features and advantages of the invention will undoubtedly emerge from the illustrative description of preferred embodiments provided below by way of non-limiting example only, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0042] - Figure 1 A top view of a fuel filtration and separation component object according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0043] - Figure 2 As shown Figure 1 The longitudinal sectional view of the fuel filtration and separation assembly shown.

[0044] - Figure 3 by Figure 1 The separation components of the fuel filter and separation assembly are shown in a perspective cross-sectional view.

[0045] - Figure 4 A perspective cross-sectional view is shown using the separation components of a separation group object according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, which herein include, for example, Figures 1 to 3 In the filtration and separation components shown;

[0046] - Figure 5a and Figure 5b Shown in the front view and top section view respectively Figure 4 The separation group;

[0047] - Figure 6a , Figure 6b , Figure 6c and Figure 6d Show examples such as in perspective view, top view, front view, and side view. Figure 4 The separation unit in the middle separation group;

[0048] - Figure 7a' , Figure 7a” , Figure 7b , Figure 7c' , Figure 7c” and Figure 7d Show examples such as in two perspective views, top view, front view, rear view, and side view. Figure 4 The barrier device of the separation group is shown in the figure.

[0049] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram:

[0050] 1 Water separation assembly; 2 Separator device; 20 Support structure; 200 Channel opening; 200' Channel sub-opening; 21 Separation surface; 21' Upper separation surface; 21” Lower separation surface; 3 Barrier device; 31 Barrier surface; 32 Drainage channel; 320 Channel opening; 36 Fuel inlet channel; 10 Main body; 10' Cup; 11 Inlet wall; 110 Inlet nozzle; 12 Outlet wall; 120 Outlet nozzle; 13 Side wall; 15 Insert bushing; 100 Separation chamber; 100' Separation area; 100” Collection area; 180 Cleaning hole; 190 Water level sensor; 900 Fuel filtration and separation assembly; 500 Filter assembly; 501 Inlet opening; 502 Outlet nozzle; 550 Tubular insert; 590 Housing; XX Main shaft; LL Longitudinal shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In the accompanying drawings, reference numeral 1 indicates a water separation assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Such a water separation assembly 1 is specifically used in the fuel filtration and separation component 900 of a vehicle's fuel circulation system. The fuel filtration and separation component 900, including the water separation assembly 1, is also an object of the present invention.

[0053] The water separator assembly 1, along with the fuel filter and separator assembly 900, falls under the description above and operates in a horizontal configuration, i.e., housed in the vehicle in a generally horizontal position; where "horizontal position" means that these components operate in the vehicle and are fluidly connected to the fuel circulation system in a position generally parallel to the ground along which the vehicle moves. Other references to "lower," "upper," and "side" for areas, sections, and / or components of the fuel filter and separator assembly and the water separator assembly should be taken into account in accordance with their described horizontal positioning in the vehicle.

[0054] Specifically, the fuel filter and separator assembly 900 extends along the longitudinal axis LL, which is positioned approximately horizontally relative to the components installed in the vehicle.

[0055] According to the present invention, the fuel filtration and separation assembly 900 performs a dual function on the fuel circulating in the line: in fact, as described extensively below and also as shown in the accompanying drawings, the filtration and separation assembly 900 is adapted to perform a filtration function on dirty fuel to filter out its suspended particles and impurities, and is also adapted to perform a separation function on the filtered fuel to separate it from water.

[0056] Therefore, in addition to the water separation unit 1, which is specifically suitable for performing separation operations on fuel and water, the fuel filtration and separation assembly 900 also includes a filter unit 500, which is specifically used to filter suspended solid particles and impurities in dirty fuel.

[0057] In other words, firstly, dirty fuel is intercepted by filter assembly 500, filtering out impurities; secondly, the filtered fuel is intercepted by water separation assembly 1, separating it from water, allowing clean fuel to flow downstream of fuel filtration and separation assembly 900. According to a preferred embodiment, filter assembly 500 is also adapted to perform agglomeration on water emulsified in the fuel in the form of small droplets, typically less than 100 micrometers in diameter (typically less than 50 micrometers): they aggregate to form water particles larger than 200 micrometers (preferably even up to 2 mm) or larger than the water droplets input to filter assembly 500, enabling the water separation assembly to handle the aggregated water particles.

[0058] Specifically, the water separation unit 1 and the filter unit 500 are connected in series along the longitudinal axis LL and are fluidly connected to receive the filtered fuel. In other words, the fuel filtration and separation assembly 900 consists of the filter unit 500 first, followed by the water separation unit 1 along the longitudinal axis LL. Furthermore, the water separation unit 1 can be combined with the filter unit 500 in the longitudinal direction.

[0059] According to a preferred embodiment, the fuel filter assembly 500 and the water separator assembly 1 have a "plug-and-receptacle" type mutual engagement. Specifically, the fuel filter assembly 500 and the water separator assembly 1 include corresponding insertion portions extending from the respective sets of the fuel filter assembly 500 or the water separator assembly 1, and corresponding receiving portions adapted to accommodate the insertion portions.

[0060] In other words, the fuel filtration and separation assembly 900 can be vertically combined in a modular manner: each group (or module) included therein performs a specific operation on the fuel, such as a filtration operation or a separation operation.

[0061] Preferably, component 1 further includes a fuel heating assembly (not shown) that can be coupled to the fuel filter assembly 500 at its opposite end relative to the end where it is coupled to the water separation assembly 1 (preferably by longitudinal coupling). Preferably, such an assembly (module) is adapted to perform fuel heating operation, thereby preventing paraffin crystals or water from clogging the filter assembly 500.

[0062] The present invention does not limit the shape and size of the filter assembly 500, but some parts of the water separation assembly 1 may be supplemented to promote mutual axial engagement.

[0063] However, in a preferred embodiment, the fuel filter assembly 500 is tubular. Preferably, the fuel filter assembly 500 includes a housing 590 that extends substantially axially symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis LL.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the fuel filter assembly 500 includes at least one tubular insert 550 housed therein, which extends along the longitudinal axis LL and can be passed through by fuel in a radial manner (preferably from the outside to the inside).

[0065] According to a preferred embodiment, the fuel filter assembly 500 has one or more inlet openings 501 and an outlet nozzle 502. Dirty fuel enters through the one or more inlet openings 501, and filtered fuel flows out from the outlet nozzle 502. The outlet nozzle 502 is positioned on the longitudinal axis LL. The outlet nozzle 502 extends along the longitudinal axis LL and protrudes axially.

[0066] According to a preferred embodiment of the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the water separation assembly 1 is adapted to be fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle 502, preferably such that it is housed internally. In other words, in the installation configuration, the outlet nozzle 502 extends into the interior of the water separation assembly 1 in a "plug-in" manner.

[0067] According to the present invention, the water separation assembly 1 includes a body 10 extending along the main axis XX.

[0068] In a configuration where the water separator 1 is installed within a vehicle, the main shaft XX and the longitudinal shaft LL are substantially parallel and / or coincident. That is, the main body 10 thus has a substantially longitudinal extension.

[0069] The main body 10 defines a separation chamber 100 therein, in which the water-fuel separation operation is performed.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, the body 10 thus has a generally box-shaped form.

[0071] Preferably, the main body 10 includes a cup body 10', which is provided with an inlet wall 11 that is substantially orthogonal to the main axis XX and a side wall 13 that extends axially substantially parallel to the main axis.

[0072] According to a preferred embodiment, the inlet wall 11 may engage with the filter assembly 500. Preferably, the inlet wall 11 substantially includes an inlet nozzle 110 into which filtered fuel flows. Preferably, the outlet nozzle 502 of the filter assembly 500 is adapted to be accommodated within the inlet nozzle 110.

[0073] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the main body 10 includes an insert bushing 15 that can be fitted onto the filter assembly 500 to perform mutual insertion between the water separation assembly 1 and the filter assembly 500 in the longitudinal direction.

[0074] Preferably, the insertion bushing 15 extends vertically from the inlet wall 11.

[0075] In an embodiment where the filter assembly 500 is tubular, the insert bushing 15 has a generally annular shape to engage the outer shell wall of the filter assembly 500.

[0076] To close the cup body 10', the body 10 includes an outlet wall 12 at its axial end. This outlet wall 12 includes at least one outlet nozzle 120; as a result of the separation operation, clean fuel flows out from the at least one outlet nozzle 120. In other words, the outlet wall 12 is formed on a component that functions as a plug.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment, the water separation assembly 1 and the fuel filter assembly 500 are interposable at unique angular positions. In other words, as shown in the figures, upper and lower sides can be formed in the water separation assembly 1, the fuel filter assembly 500, and the fuel filter and separation assembly 900, with respect to the vertical direction transverse to the corresponding extension axis, i.e., the longitudinal axis LL or the main axis XX.

[0078] Furthermore, the water separation assembly 1 according to the present invention includes a separator device 2 housed in a separation chamber 100 and fluidly connected to an outlet nozzle 120, suitable for performing separation operations.

[0079] The separator device 2 extends longitudinally from the outlet wall 12. Preferably, the separator device 2 can be integrated into the outlet wall 12. Preferably, the separator device 2 is integrally formed with the outlet wall 12.

[0080] According to the present invention, the separator device 2 includes a support structure 20 through which fuel can pass to form a dirty side and a clean side (fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle 120); filtered fuel from the filter assembly flows into the dirty side, while clean fuel separated from water flows out from the clean side.

[0081] The support structure 20 is preferably hollow.

[0082] The support structure 20 includes at least one channel opening 200 through which fuel flows. Preferably, the separator device 2 includes a separation surface 21 on the opening, which forms a hydrophobic filter section transverse to the channel opening 200.

[0083] According to a preferred embodiment, such a support structure 20 can be fixed or fixed to the outlet wall 12 so that the inner (cleaning) fluid is connected to the outlet nozzle 120.

[0084] Preferably, as shown in the accompanying drawings, on the support structure 20 according to the preferred embodiment, each channel opening 200 is divided into a plurality of mutually planar aligned channel sub-openings 200'. Therefore, preferably, the separation surface 21 extends planarly over the plurality of auxiliary openings.

[0085] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the separator device 2 has a primary extension in the longitudinal direction relative to the vertical direction.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment, the separation surface 21 is arranged at an angle relative to the direction of the main shaft XX, so that it gradually converges away from the outlet wall 12. Preferably, the support structure 20 has a certain shape such that the separation surface 21 arranged thereon has such a converging shape.

[0087] According to a preferred embodiment, the separator device 2 includes an upper separation surface 21' and a lower separation surface 21'. In other words, according to the preferred embodiment, two separation surfaces are formed that extend approximately longitudinally.

[0088] Preferably, the support structure 20 has corresponding upper channel opening and lower channel opening 200 (each channel opening has multiple channel sub-openings 200' as described and illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings).

[0089] According to another preferred embodiment, the separator device 2 includes a separation surface 21 orthogonally oriented relative to the longitudinal axis LL.

[0090] Preferably, the separation surface is vertically oriented. According to a preferred embodiment, the separation surface 21 is disposed on the bottom wall of the support structure 20, oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis LL, and axially spaced from the outlet wall 12.

[0091] According to a preferred embodiment, the separation surface 21 includes a hydrophobic filter section adapted to facilitate water separation when fuel passes through it.

[0092] Preferably, the hydrophobic filter is made of a synthetic fiber nonwoven fabric (e.g., nylon (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyester, viscose fiber) or a woven fabric (nylon (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT)), for example treated with silicon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) or plasma to make the static water contact angle greater than 90°, resulting in water non-wetting and thus suitable for performing a "barrier" effect on water, but fuel can permeate.

[0093] According to a preferred embodiment, the separator device includes a single filter section fixed to a support structure: a corresponding separation surface 21 is formed at each plane and at each separation surface arranged thereon.

[0094] Based on the foregoing, the separator device 2 is preferably tapered, gradually moving away from the outlet wall 12 in the longitudinal direction. In the vertical longitudinal section, the separator device 2 (and in particular the support structure 20) has a generally triangular, trapezoidal, or truncated conical shape, with an upper separation surface 21' and a lower separation surface 21' on two opposite longitudinal sides.

[0095] According to the present invention, the water separation assembly 1 further includes a barrier device 3, which is then housed in the separation chamber.

[0096] Specifically, the barrier device 3 is positioned below the separator device 2, thereby dividing the separation chamber 100 into a separation region 100' and a collection region 100"; the separator device 2 is housed in the separation region 100', and the water separated from the fuel is collected in the collection region 100".

[0097] Therefore, the barrier device 3 is adapted to prevent water from returning to the separation zone 100'.

[0098] Specifically, the barrier device 3 includes a drainage area 35, which is a corresponding planar portion area on one side of the channel opening 320, arranged close to the outlet wall and positioned below the outlet nozzle 120 to facilitate drainage of the separated water toward the collection area 100". Furthermore, such a barrier device 3 has an opening and / or a sliding surface, which is configured to ensure drainage of the separated water toward the collection area while minimizing water accumulation near the outlet nozzle.

[0099] According to a preferred embodiment, the barrier device 3 includes a barrier surface 31 extending longitudinally from the outlet wall 12. Preferably, the barrier device 3 is actually integrated into the outlet wall 12. Preferably, the barrier device 3 is integrally formed with the outlet wall 12. According to a preferred embodiment, the barrier device 3 includes a barrier surface 31 extending from the inlet wall 11 and integrated into the inlet wall 11. Preferably, the barrier device 3 is integrally formed with the inlet wall 11.

[0100] According to the present invention, the barrier surface 31 forms an angle with the direction of the main shaft XX, the angle causing at least a portion of the barrier surface 31 to tilt so as to allow water separated from the fuel to flow to the outlet wall 12.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the barrier surface 31 extends in a generally planar manner.

[0102] According to a preferred embodiment, the inclined portion of the barrier surface 31 is inclined to form a certain angle with the main shaft XX, the certain angle being approximately equal to the inclination angle, and the separation surface 21 extends according to the inclination angle. In other words, the barrier surface 31 is approximately parallel to the separation surface 21 adjacent to it, preferably the lower separation surface 21.

[0103] The barrier surface 31 is shaped such that the water collection area 100 is defined in a certain form, for example, with a greater height in the longitudinal direction away from the outlet wall 12 (i.e., near the inlet wall 11).

[0104] According to a preferred embodiment, the blocking device 3 includes at least one drainage channel 32 that extends in the longitudinal direction and forms an angle opposite to the angle formed by the blocking surface 31.

[0105] Preferably, the water separated by the separator device 2 flows from the separation region 100' to the collection region 100' in a dual sliding direction. The dual sliding direction includes the sliding direction of water on the barrier surface 31 towards the outlet wall 12 and the sliding direction of water on the drainage channel 32 away from the outlet wall 12. Water separated by the separator device 2 by gravity tends to initially flow towards the outlet wall 12, flow on the barrier surface 31, then towards the inlet wall 11, flow into the drainage channel 32, and then into the collection chamber 100.

[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the barrier device 3 includes two drainage channels 32 arranged on the side of the barrier surface 31.

[0107] Preferably, a connection is included between the barrier surface 31 and the drainage channel 32, such that the barrier surface 31 and the drainage channel 32 are fluidly connected, which is suitable for promoting the flow of the water.

[0108] According to a preferred embodiment, the barrier device 3 includes at least one channel opening 320 adapted to allow fluid communication between the separation region 100' and the collection region 100".

[0109] According to a preferred embodiment, such a channel opening 320 is configured to allow water blocked by the separator device 2 to drain toward the collection area 100". Preferably, such a channel opening 320 is sized and positioned on the blocking device 3 to minimize the return of water toward the separation area 100'. Preferably, such a channel opening is located on the side of the blocking surface 31.

[0110] According to a preferred embodiment, the barrier device 3 includes a fuel inlet channel 36 adapted to deliver filtered fuel from the filter assembly 500 to the separator device 2.

[0111] For example, the fuel inlet passage 36 extends longitudinally at an angle different from (preferably opposite to) the angle at which the barrier surface 31 is inclined.

[0112] Preferably, the fuel inlet passage 36 extends generally forward to the inlet nozzle 110, that is, preferably forward to the outlet nozzle 502 of the filter assembly 500. In a preferred embodiment, the outlet nozzle 502 is received within the fuel inlet passage 36.

[0113] Based on the foregoing and as illustrated by example in the accompanying drawings, water separation group 1 has a generally elongated extension.

[0114] Preferably, the water separation group 1 has a certain height, which is approximately equal to the height of the filter group 500.

[0115] According to a preferred embodiment, the water separation assembly 1 preferably extends in a longitudinal direction. In other words, in a preferred embodiment, the water separation assembly 1 preferably extends in a longitudinal direction that is substantially parallel to the horizontal ground on which the vehicle moves. In other words, the water separation assembly 1 has a horizontal extension rather than a vertical extension.

[0116] According to a preferred embodiment, at its lower part, the water separation assembly 1 also has a cleaning hole 180, which is closed by a suitable plug to allow for the cleaning operation of the collected water.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the preferred embodiment, the water separation assembly 1 also includes a water level sensor 190, adapted to detect the amount of water collected in the separation chamber 100 (and particularly in the collection area 100”).

[0118] Innovatively, the water separation unit and the filtration and separation components including the water separation unit fully meet the objectives of the present invention and overcome the common defects of the prior art.

[0119] Advantageously, in practice, when specifically adapted for operation and positioning in a vehicle in a horizontal position, the water separator performs an effective water-fuel separation operation.

[0120] Advantageously, the water separator is suitable for efficient operation of both the fuel circulating in the pressure thrust cycle and the fuel circulating in the intake cycle.

[0121] Advantageously, the separator has a separation surface with a predominantly longitudinal extension and is suitable for handling high fuel flow rates. In other words, advantageously, the separator is suitable for having a large processing surface.

[0122] Advantageously, due to the large filtration surface provided by the conical, trapezoidal, or generally conical separator device, the separator device is suitable for performing fuel-water separation operations by minimizing the pressure drop in the fuel supply line.

[0123] Furthermore, advantageously, the separation assembly has corresponding components that have a shape suitable for promoting the accumulation of water in the collection area.

[0124] Advantageously, the inclined walls of the separation device are adapted to facilitate rapid tilting in addition to water collection.

[0125] Advantageously, the barrier device is configured to promote water tilting through double sliding. At the same time, the barrier device is configured to prevent accumulated water from returning to the separation device.

[0126] Advantageously, it prevents water collected in the collection area from returning to the separation area, even when the vehicle is facing an uphill or downhill slope and / or when the vehicle brakes suddenly.

[0127] Advantageously, optimized according to the manufacturer's needs, the barrier device is adapted to divide the separation chamber so that the water accumulation area has the largest possible size.

[0128] Advantageously, the barrier device is positioned close to the separation device, which defines a collection area that extends vertically away from the outlet wall.

[0129] Advantageously, the barrier device is configured to increase the range of the collection chamber while minimizing the risk that any water droplets from the collection area may reach the separation area when the amount of water accumulated in the same collection area approaches or exceeds a threshold water level defined by a water level sensor.

[0130] Advantageously, the water separation unit does not require the water collection chamber to have a vertical extension or to extend at a lower position relative to the filter unit.

[0131] Advantageously, the separator device can be manufactured using simple operations, such as molding, for example by molding the support structure and the hydrophobic filter together.

[0132] Advantageously, the barrier device can be obtained through a simple molding operation, which is integrally formed with the inlet wall or outlet wall or generally with the side wall of the main body of the water separation unit.

[0133] Advantageously, the barrier device includes an inclined barrier surface that allows for the processing of the workpiece by molding, and if the barrier device is integrally formed with these components, facilitates the extraction of the body or outlet wall.

[0134] Advantageously, the water separation unit is optimized to perform efficient separation, collection, and water aggregation operations.

[0135] Advantageously, the water separator is a separation module that can be installed on the filter assembly when needed. Advantageously, the water separator and the filter assembly are arranged in series with respect to each other in the vehicle's fuel cycle circuit.

[0136] Advantageously, the water separation unit can be combined with a horizontal filter unit, thereby adding such functionality related to fuel-water separation to the filter unit, which would otherwise be unsuitable for performing such operations. Advantageously, preferably, the water separation unit can be combined with a commercially available horizontal filter unit.

[0137] It is obvious to those skilled in the art of water separation assemblies or filtration and separation components that all of these fall within the scope of protection defined by the appended claims in order to meet the incidental requirements.

Claims

1. A water separation assembly (1), for use in a fuel filtration and separation component (900) of a vehicle's fuel cycle system, wherein, The separation assembly (900) extends along the longitudinal axis (LL) and is horizontally disposed in the vehicle, including a filter assembly (500) for filtering suspended solids and impurities in dirty fuel, wherein a water separation assembly (1) is connected in series with the filter assembly (500) along the longitudinal axis (LL) and fluidly connected to receive the filtered fuel, characterized in that the water separation assembly (1) comprises: - A body (10) that can be combined with a filter assembly (500) and extends along a main axis (XX), wherein, in a configuration in which the water separation assembly (1) is combined with the filter assembly (500), the main axis (XX) and the longitudinal axis (LL) are substantially parallel and / or coincident, wherein the body (10) defines a separation chamber (100) therein and includes an outlet wall (12) at an axial end, the outlet wall (12) including at least one outlet nozzle (120) from which clean fuel flows out; - A separator device (2), housed in the separation chamber (100), fluidly connected to the outlet nozzle (120), extending longitudinally from the outlet wall (12), and including a support structure (20) having at least one channel opening (200) through which fuel flows, wherein the separator device (2) includes a separation surface (21) arranged laterally relative to the channel opening (200); - A barrier device (3), positioned below the separator device (2), divides the separation chamber (100) into a separation area (100') and a collection area (100"); the separator device (2) is housed in the separation area (100'), and water separated from the fuel is collected in the collection area (100"), wherein the barrier device (3) is adapted to prevent water from returning to the separation area (100'); The water separation unit (1) can be sleeved on the outer wall of the filter unit (500); The barrier device (3) includes a barrier surface (31) and at least one drain channel (32). The barrier surface (31) extends in the longitudinal direction and forms an angle with the direction of the main shaft (XX), such that at least a portion of the barrier surface (31) is inclined to allow water separated from the fuel to flow to the outlet wall (12). The at least one drain channel (32) extends in the longitudinal direction to form an angle opposite to the angle formed by the barrier surface (31), such that water separated by the separator device (2) flows from the separation area (100') to the collection area (100") in a double sliding direction, the double sliding direction including the sliding direction of water on the barrier surface (31) flowing towards the outlet wall (12) and the sliding direction of water on the drain channel (32) flowing away from the outlet wall (12).

2. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The barrier device (3) includes two drainage channels (32) arranged on the side of the barrier surface (31).

3. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The barrier device (3) includes at least one channel opening (320) adapted to fluidly communicate the separation region (100') and the collection region (100").

4. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The channel opening (320) is formed on the side of the barrier surface (31).

5. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The barrier device (3) includes a fuel inlet channel (36) adapted to deliver filtered fuel from the filter assembly (500) to the separator device (2).

6. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The fuel inlet channel (36) extends longitudinally relative to the main shaft (XX) at an angle different from the angle at which the barrier surface (31) is inclined.

7. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, The angle of the fuel inlet channel (36) relative to the direction of the main shaft (XX) is opposite to the angle of inclination of the barrier surface (31).

8. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The support structure (20) includes multiple channel openings (200) with multiple separation surfaces (21) thereon, wherein the separation surfaces (21) are arranged at an inclination relative to the direction of the main shaft (XX), so that the separation surfaces (21) gradually move away from the outlet wall (12) and converge.

9. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The separation surface (21) includes an upper separation surface (21') and a lower separation surface (21"), the lower separation surface (21") facing the barrier surface (31).

10. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The barrier surface (31) is tilted to form an angle with the direction of the main axis (XX), which is approximately equal to the tilt angle of the separation surface (21), such that the barrier surface (31) is parallel to the separation surface (21) adjacent to it. When the separation surface includes an upper separation surface (21') and a lower separation surface (21"), the barrier surface (31) is parallel to the lower separation surface (21").

11. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The separation surface (21) is arranged orthogonally to the main axis (XX).

12. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The support structure (20) is covered with a hydrophobic filter section to form a corresponding separation surface (21) in each channel opening (200).

13. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The body (10) includes an inlet wall (11) including at least one inlet nozzle (110) adapted to be in fluid connection with the filter assembly (500) to allow the filtered fuel to enter the separation chamber (100).

14. The water separation assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The main body (10) includes an insertion bushing (15) which can be fitted onto the filter assembly (500) to perform mutual insertion between the water separation assembly (1) and the filter assembly (500) in the longitudinal direction.

15. A fuel filtration and separation assembly (900) of a vehicle's fuel circulation system, extending along a longitudinal axis (LL) and horizontally disposed in the vehicle, characterized in that, The fuel filtration and separation assembly (900) includes: i) Fuel filter assembly (500) for filtering suspended solid particles and impurities in dirty fuel; ii) The water separation assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims is used to separate water from filtered fuel; The water separation group (1) and the filter group (500) are connected in series along the longitudinal axis (LL) and fluidly connected to receive the filtered fuel.

16. The fuel filtration and separation assembly (900) according to claim 15, characterized in that, The fuel filter assembly (500) and the water separator assembly (1) have a "plug-and-socket" type mutual engagement, each having an insertion part and a corresponding receiving part, the insertion part extending from the corresponding assembly of the fuel filter assembly (500) or the water separator assembly (1), and the receiving part being adapted to accommodate the insertion part.

17. The fuel filtration and separation assembly (900) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, The fuel filter assembly (500) is tubular and extends in a generally axially symmetrical manner with respect to the longitudinal axis (LL).

18. The fuel filtration and separation assembly (900) according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that, It also includes a fuel heating assembly, which can be combined with the fuel filter assembly (500) at its end opposite to the water separation assembly (1) by longitudinal engagement.

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