Filter assembly including separate fuel and water flow paths

Abstract

The filter assembly includes a housing defining an interior volume and including an inlet for receiving fuel, a first outlet allowing filtered fuel to exit the interior volume, and a second outlet allowing water separated from the fuel to exit the interior volume. A filter element is disposed within the interior volume for filtering the fuel to provide filtered fuel and separate water from the fuel. An outlet assembly is fluidly coupled to the first and second outlets and includes a first flow path configured to pass the filtered fuel to the first outlet and a second flow path fluidly coupled to the interior volume of the housing and a water reservoir to receive water from the interior volume and pass the water to the water reservoir. The second flow path is fluidly isolated from the first flow path.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and interest in Indian Provisional Application No. 202041035474, filed on August 18, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to filtration systems for filtering fluids such as fuels.

[0004] background

[0005] Internal combustion engines typically burn a mixture of fuel (such as diesel, gasoline, natural gas, etc.) and air. Before entering the engine, the fuel typically passes through a filter element to remove particulate matter (such as dust, metal particles, debris, etc.), and water can also be separated from the fuel. This fuel-water separator filter assembly typically separates water at the outer diameter of the filter element, and the separated water accumulates in a water reservoir located below the filter element. The water reservoir is usually open to the outer diameter of the filter element. When such a filter assembly is included in a vehicle, the movement of the vehicle may cause water to splash and come into contact with the outer diameter of the filter element. This can wet the filter media of the filter element, negatively impacting the performance of the filter element.

[0006] Overview

[0007] The embodiments described herein generally relate to fuel-water separator filter assemblies, and more specifically to filter assemblies including an outlet assembly fluidly coupled to a fuel outlet and a water outlet of a housing of the filter assembly, wherein filter elements are disposed within the housing of the filter assembly. The outlet assembly defines a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path allowing filtered fuel to exit the internal volume of the housing, and the second flow path being fluidly isolated from the first flow path. The second flow path is configured to allow water separated from the fuel to exit the internal volume to a location within the housing that is fluidly isolated from the internal volume of the housing, where the filter elements are disposed.

[0008] In some embodiments, a filter assembly includes a housing defining an internal volume. The housing includes an inlet for receiving fuel, a first outlet allowing filtered fuel to exit the internal volume, and a second outlet allowing water separated from the fuel to exit the internal volume. A filter element is disposed within the internal volume for filtering fuel, thereby providing filtered fuel and separating water from the fuel. An outlet assembly is fluidly coupled to each of the first and second outlets. The outlet assembly includes a first flow path and a second flow path. The first flow path is fluidly coupled to a clean side of the filter element and the first outlet to receive filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter element and to deliver the filtered fuel to the first outlet. The second flow path is fluidly coupled to the internal volume of the housing and the second outlet to receive water from the internal volume and to deliver the water through the second outlet.

[0009] In some embodiments, the second outlet is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly, and the first outlet is oriented orthogonally to the second outlet.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the exit component defining the first flow path and the second flow path is configured to pass through the second exit.

[0011] In some embodiments, the filter element includes: a filter medium, an end plate connected to an end of the filter medium, and an outlet assembly connected to the end plate.

[0012] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly includes: an outer wall defining a flow channel through the outer wall; and a set of inner walls disposed within the flow channel and extending radially from the central axis of the outer wall to an inner surface of the outer wall, such that the flow channel is divided into a plurality of flow paths, a first set of the plurality of flow paths forming a first flow path, and a second set of the plurality of flow paths forming a second flow path.

[0013] In some embodiments, the outer wall and the set of inner walls are partially disposed in the second outlet, such that a portion of the outer wall extends into the internal volume defined by the housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, the filter element defines a central channel, and the outlet assembly defines a filtered fuel inlet in fluid communication with the central channel and the first flow path, the filtered fuel inlet being configured to receive filtered fuel from the central channel.

[0015] In some embodiments, the outer wall defines a first outer wall opening at a position on the outer wall aligned with the corresponding first outlet.

[0016] In some embodiments, a portion of the outer wall near the filter element defines a second outer wall opening located axially and radially offset from the first outer wall opening and near the filter element, the second outer wall opening being in fluid communication with the internal volume.

[0017] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly first sealing member disposed between the outer wall and the second outlet at a location close to the filter element.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly further includes a second sealing member disposed at a lower end of the outlet assembly away from the filter element between the outer wall and the second outlet.

[0019] In some embodiments, the housing includes an upper portion defining an upper portion base, a notch being defined on the inner periphery of the upper portion base; and the outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly protrusion projecting radially outward from the outer wall at a position axially upward along the first sealing member of the outlet assembly, the outlet assembly protrusion being configured to sit within the notch when the outlet assembly is properly positioned in the housing.

[0020] In some embodiments, a filter element for filtering fuel and separating water from the fuel is configured to be disposed within an internal volume of a housing and includes: a filter medium; an end plate coupled to an end of the filter medium; and an outlet assembly coupled to a bottom surface of the end plate. The outlet assembly includes: an outer wall defining a flow channel through the outer wall; and a set of inner walls disposed within the flow channel and extending radially from a central axis of the outer wall to an inner surface of the outer wall, such that the flow channel is divided into a plurality of flow paths, a first set of the plurality of flow paths forming a first flow. The first flow path is fluidly connected to the clean side of the filter medium and configured to be fluidly connected to a first outlet of the housing to receive filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter medium and deliver the filtered fuel to the first outlet, thereby allowing the filtered fuel to leave the internal volume. A second set of the plurality of flow paths forms a second flow path, which is configured to be fluidly connected to the internal volume of the housing and a second outlet of the housing to receive water from the internal volume and deliver the water through the second outlet, thereby allowing water separated from the fuel to leave the internal volume.

[0021] In some embodiments, the outer wall and the set of inner walls are configured to be partially disposed in the second outlet, such that when the filter element is disposed in the housing, a portion of the outer wall extends into the internal volume defined by the housing.

[0022] In some embodiments, the filter medium defines a central channel, and the outlet assembly defines a filtered fuel inlet in fluid communication with the central channel and the first flow path, the filtered fuel inlet being configured to receive filtered fuel from the central channel.

[0023] In some embodiments, the outer wall defines a first outer wall opening at a location on the outer wall that is configured to align with the first outlet when the filter element is placed in the housing.

[0024] In some embodiments, a portion of the outer wall near the filter element defines a second outer wall opening located axially and radially offset from the first outer wall opening and close to the filter medium, the second outer wall opening being configured to communicate with the internal volumetric fluid when the filter element is housed in the housing.

[0025] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly first sealing member disposed on the radially outer surface of the outer wall near the filter medium.

[0026] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly further includes a second sealing member disposed on the radial outer surface of the outer wall at the lower end of the outlet assembly away from the filter medium.

[0027] In some embodiments, the outlet assembly further includes: a plurality of arms that project radially outward from the outer surface of the outer wall, each of the plurality of arms including: a first portion of the arm having a constant radial width, and a second portion of the arm that tapers radially inward from the first portion of the arm toward an outlet assembly base located distal to the end plate, the first portion of the arm having a width that decreases progressively from the first portion of the arm to the outlet assembly base.

[0028] In some embodiments, a filter element for filtering fuel and separating water from the fuel is configured to be disposed within an internal volume of a housing and includes a filter medium and an end plate coupled to an end of the filter medium. An outlet assembly is coupled to the bottom surface of the end plate. The filter element is configured to be disposed within an internal volume of a housing, the housing including a first outlet allowing filtered fuel to exit the internal volume and a second outlet allowing water separated from the fuel to exit the internal volume. The outlet assembly includes an outer wall defining a flow channel through the outer wall. A set of inner walls is disposed within the flow channel and extends radially from the central axis of the outer walls to an inner surface of the outer walls, such that the flow channel is divided into a plurality of flow paths. A first set of the plurality of flow paths forms a first flow path fluidly coupled to a clean side of the filter medium and configured to be fluidly coupled to a first outlet of the housing to receive filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter medium and to deliver the filtered fuel to the first outlet, thereby allowing the filtered fuel to exit the internal volume. The second set of multiple flow paths forms a second flow path, which is configured to fluidly connect to the internal volume of the housing and a second outlet of the housing in order to receive water from the internal volume and deliver the water through the second outlet, thereby allowing water separated from the fuel to leave the internal volume.

[0029] It should be recognized that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and other concepts discussed in more detail below (provided these concepts are not contradictory) are contemplated as part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of the claimed subject matter appearing last in this disclosure are contemplated as part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. Brief description of the attached diagram

[0031] The foregoing and other features of this disclosure will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that these drawings depict only a few implementations according to this disclosure and are therefore not to be considered as limiting its scope, which will be described with additional specificity and detail using the drawings.

[0032] Figure 1A This is a side sectional view of the filter assembly according to an embodiment; and Figure 1B It is by Figure 1A Arrow A in the middle indicates Figure 1A A side sectional view of a portion of the filter component.

[0033] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A Another side sectional view of the filter component; and Figure 2B It is by Figure 2A Arrow B in the middle indicates Figure 1A A side sectional view of another part of the filter component.

[0034] Figure 3 According to the embodiments Figure 1A The top perspective view of the lower portion of the housing of the filter assembly shows the first outlet and the second outlet.

[0035] Figure 4 It is along Figure 3 The line CC in the middle is cut off Figure 3 A side sectional view of the lower part of the shell.

[0036] Figure 5 This is another top perspective view of the lower portion of the housing according to an embodiment, showing a separator plate disposed in the lower portion of the housing.

[0037] Figure 6 It is included according to a specific embodiment. Figure 1A-Figure 2B A side perspective view of the filter element and a portion of the outlet assembly in the filter assembly.

[0038] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The lower portion of the housing shown is a side perspective view.

[0039] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Top perspective view of the partition.

[0040] Figure 9 This is a side sectional view of a portion of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

[0041] Figure 10 This is a side sectional view of a filter assembly according to yet another embodiment.

[0042] Figure 11 This is a side sectional view of a filter assembly according to yet another embodiment.

[0043] Figure 12 This is a side sectional view of a filter assembly according to another embodiment.

[0044] Figure 13 It is by Figure 12 Arrow C in the middle indicates Figure 12 A side sectional view of a portion of the filter component.

[0045] Figure 14 It is by Figure 12 Arrow C in the middle indicates Figure 12 Another side sectional view of a part of the filter component, which is related to Figure 12 and Figure 13 The side sectional view shown is orthogonal.

[0046] Figure 15It is included according to the embodiments Figure 12 Top perspective view of the outlet assembly and end plate in the filter assembly, and Figure 16 This is a bottom perspective view of the outlet component and end plate.

[0047] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings throughout the detailed description below. In the drawings, similar symbols generally identify similar parts unless the context otherwise indicates. The illustrative implementations described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other implementations and modifications may be utilized without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented herein. It will be readily understood that aspects of this disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings, can be arranged, substituted, combined, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated and are part of this disclosure.

[0048] Detailed description

[0049] The embodiments described herein generally relate to fuel-water separator filter assemblies, and more specifically to filter assemblies including an outlet assembly fluidly coupled to a fuel outlet and a water outlet of a housing of the filter assembly, within which filter elements are disposed. The outlet assembly defines a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path allowing filtered fuel to exit the internal volume of the housing, and the second flow path being fluidly isolated from the first flow path. The second flow path is configured to allow water separated from the fuel to exit the internal volume to a location where the housing is fluidly isolated from the internal volume, and the filter elements are disposed within the internal volume.

[0050] The embodiments of the filter assembly described herein offer a variety of benefits, including, for example: (1) separating the water reservoir from the filter media while allowing water to flow from the internal volume of the housing into the water reservoir; (2) providing separate outlets for fuel and water within a compact space; and (3) mitigating a reduction in filtration efficiency by inhibiting the contact of the separated water with the filter elements.

[0051] Figure 1A-Figure 2B Several views of a fuel-water separator filter assembly (hereinafter referred to as "filter assembly 100") according to an embodiment are shown. Filter assembly 100 includes a housing 101, a filter element 130, a partition 140, and an outlet assembly 150.

[0052] The housing 101 defines an internal volume 105, and the filter element 130 is located along the longitudinal axis A of the housing 101. L It is housed within an internal volume 105. The housing 101 defines an inlet 102 for receiving unfiltered fuel. Figures 2A-2B For example, the inlet 102 is defined on the side wall of the housing 101. See also... Figures 3-4 The lower portion 101a of the housing 101 defines a first outlet 112 that allows filtered fuel to exit the housing 101 and a second outlet 114 that allows water separated from the fuel to exit the housing 101. The second outlet 114 includes a longitudinal conduit defined in the lower portion 101a of the housing 101, which is aligned with the longitudinal axis A of the filter assembly 100. L Axial alignment. The first outlet 112 may include an orthogonal conduit orthogonal to the orientation of the second outlet 114, for example, the orthogonal conduit extending orthogonally in opposite directions from the sidewall of the second outlet 114 and fluidly connected to the second outlet 114.

[0053] A filter element 130 is removably disposed within an internal volume 105 defined by a housing 101. The filter element 130 includes a filter medium 132, which may be disposed around a central tube 170 defining a central channel. The filter element 130 is a radial flow filter element configured to filter fuel as it flows radially from the outer radial surface of the filter medium 132 and passes through the filter medium 132, entering the central channel (e.g., via multiple openings defined in the central tube 170) as filtered fuel. A hydrophobic layer or other water separation layer or any other water separation feature may be disposed on the outer radial surface of the filter medium 132 for separating water from the fuel. The separated water flows through the internal volume 105 and through an outlet assembly 150 to a water reservoir 104 coupled to a lower portion 101a of the housing 101. An end plate 134 is coupled to the lower end of the filter medium 132 near the lower portion 101a of the housing 101.

[0054] Also refer to Figures 5-8 A partition 140 is disposed in the lower portion 101a of the housing 101, such that the partition 140 forms the base of the internal volume 105 defined by the housing 101. In various embodiments, the partition 140 may be integrally formed with the housing 101, for example, molded as part of the housing 101. The partition 140 is configured to fluidly isolate a portion of the lower portion 101a of the housing 101 from the internal volume 105, the portion of the lower portion 101a receiving the separated water and in fluid communication with the water reservoir 104. In this way, the partition 140 prevents the separated water collected in the water reservoir 104 from splashing onto the outer radial surface of the filter medium 132.

[0055] like Figure 3 As shown, the lower portion 101a of the housing 101 defines a plurality of holes 143 (e.g., bosses) for receiving connecting members 147 (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.) that connect the partition 140 to the lower portion 101a. Protrusions 141 are defined in the partition 140 and extend from near the radial periphery of the partition 140 toward the filter element 130. Figure 5 The protrusion 141 is configured to mate with a corresponding end plate groove 135 defined in the end plate 134, and in some embodiments, also with a filter element groove 131 defined in the filter medium 132. The protrusion 141, along with the corresponding end plate groove 135 and filter element groove 131, provides a poke-yoke feature to ensure proper alignment of the filter element 130 within the internal volume 105. Figure 6 This prevents the use of counterfeit filter elements in the filter assembly 100. A first sealing member 142 (e.g., an O-ring or gasket) is positioned near the outer periphery of the partition 140 between the partition 140 and the lower portion 101a, and fluidly seals the internal volume 105 with the portion of the lower portion 101a located below the partition 140.

[0056] The outlet assembly 150 is coupled to each of the first outlet 112 and the second outlet 114. The outlet assembly 150 is coupled to the end plate 134; for example, the outlet assembly 150 may be integrally formed with the end plate 134. In other embodiments, the outlet assembly 150 may be a separate component coupled to the end plate 134, for example, via a connecting member, snap-fit, or welded to it. The outlet assembly 150 includes a first flow path fluidly coupled to the clean side of the filter element 130, namely, a central channel defined by the central tube 170 and the first outlet 112. The first flow path receives filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter element 130 and delivers the filtered fuel to the first outlet 112. Furthermore, the outlet assembly 150 includes a second flow path fluidly coupled to the internal volume 105 of the housing 101 and the second outlet 114. The second flow path receives water from the internal volume 105 and delivers water through the second outlet 114. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outlet assembly 150 defining the first and second flow paths is configured to pass through the second outlet 114.

[0057] Reference Figure 1A-Figure 2B and Figure 6The outlet assembly 150 includes a tubular structure, a portion of which is configured to pass through the second outlet 114. The outlet assembly 150 includes an outer wall 154 defining a flow channel through it. A set of inner walls 156 are disposed within the flow channel defined by the outer wall 154 and extend radially from the central axis of the outer wall 154 to its inner surface, such that the flow channel is divided into four flow paths, two of which form a first flow path and the remaining two form a second flow path. In other embodiments, any number of inner walls 156 can be used to form any number of flow paths, wherein any combination of flow paths is dedicated to the first and second flow paths. The outer wall 154 and the set of inner walls 156 are partially disposed in the second outlet 114, such that a portion of the outer wall 154 extends into the internal volume 105 and provides space for water flow between the end plate 134 and the partition 140.

[0058] A first flow path is defined between a first portion of the outer wall 154 and the set of inner walls 156. For example, the outlet assembly 150 defines a filtered fuel inlet 152, which is in fluid communication with the central channel and configured to receive filtered fuel. The outer wall 154 defines a set of first outer wall openings 158 at locations aligned with the corresponding first outlet 112. An outlet assembly base 157 is disposed at the end of the outlet assembly 150 remote from the filter element 130 and oriented orthogonally to the outer wall 154. A first sealing member 144 (e.g., an O-ring or gasket) is disposed near the filter element 130 between the outer wall 154 and the second outlet 114, and a second sealing member 146 (e.g., an O-ring or gasket) is disposed at the lower end of the outlet assembly 150 remote from the filter element 130 between the outlet assembly base 157 and the second outlet 114. The first sealing member 144 and the second sealing member 146 of the outlet assembly can be configured to provide a surface seal and / or a radial seal.

[0059] like Figure 1B As shown, the first flow path is defined as follows: starting from the filtered fuel inlet 152, passing between the first portion of the outer wall 154 and the set of inner walls 156, until the first outer wall opening 158 in fluid communication with the corresponding first outlet 112. The outlet assembly base 157 isolates the first flow path from the second flow path and the portion of the lower portion 101a in fluid communication with the water reservoir 104.

[0060] The second portion of the outer wall 154 near the filter element 130 defines a set of second outer wall openings 159 at a position axially and radially offset from and close to the set of first outer wall openings 158 and near the filter element 130. Figure 2B and Figure 6 The set of second outer wall openings 159 is in fluid communication with the internal volume 105. A second portion of the outer wall 154 and the set of inner walls 156 define a second flow path between them, the second flow path being different from and fluidly isolated from the first flow path. The outlet assembly base 157 defines a set of water outlets 155 in fluid communication with the second flow path. Figure 2B As shown, the separated water flows through the second set of second outer wall openings 159 between the second part of the outer wall 154 and the set of inner walls 156, enters the lower part 101a through the set of water outlets 155, which is fluidly isolated from the internal volume 105 by the partition 140, and thus enters the water reservoir 104.

[0061] Figure 9 This is a side sectional view of a portion of a filter assembly 200 according to another embodiment. The filter assembly 200 shows another flow path of separated water and filtered fuel through the housing 201 of the filter assembly 200. In this embodiment, water flows into the lower portion 201a of the housing 201 via a water inlet 205, which is defined in a radial sidewall of the lower portion 201a at a location remote from the lower end of the lower portion 201a. The separated water exits via a water outlet 214, which is also defined in a sidewall at a location relative to the water inlet 205 near the lower end. The filtered fuel flows through a central channel 212 defined in the housing 201, which is parallel to or axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the housing 201.

[0062] Figure 10 This is a side sectional view of a filter assembly 300 according to yet another embodiment. The filter assembly 300 includes a housing 301 and a filter element 330 disposed in the housing 301 surrounding a central tube 370, the central tube 370 defining a central channel and a plurality of pores 372. A hydrophobic screen 374 is disposed in the central tube 370 and divides the central channel into a first channel 312 and a second channel 314. The hydrophobic screen 374 is configured to allow fuel to pass from the second channel 314 through the hydrophobic screen to the first channel 312, but remove any water contained in the fuel. The separated water then falls under gravity through the second channel 314 and is eventually discharged from the housing 301.

[0063] Figure 11This is a side sectional view of a filter assembly 400 according to yet another embodiment. The filter assembly 400 includes a housing 401 and a filter element disposed within the housing 401 surrounding a central tube 470, the central tube 470 defining a central channel and a plurality of pores 472. A hydrophobic filter screen 412 is disposed within the central tube 470. The hydrophobic filter screen 412 is shaped as a hollow cylinder to provide a fuel flow path. Fuel flows through the hydrophobic filter screen 412 into the flow path and out of the housing 401 through the flow path. Furthermore, a water flow path 414 is defined between the outer surface of the central tube 470 and the hydrophobic filter screen 412. Water is separated from the fuel through the hydrophobic filter screen 412. The separated water accumulates on the hydrophobic filter screen 412 and eventually falls under gravity through the water flow path 414 and out of the housing 401.

[0064] Figures 12-14 Several views of a fuel-water separator filter assembly 500 (hereinafter referred to as "filter assembly 500") according to another embodiment are shown. Filter assembly 500 includes a housing 501, a filter element 530, and an outlet assembly 550.

[0065] Housing 501 defines an internal volume 505, and filter element 530 is located along the longitudinal axis A of housing 501. L It is disposed within the internal volume 505. The housing 501 defines an inlet 502 for receiving dirty or unfiltered fuel. Figure 12 For example, inlet 502 is defined on the sidewall of housing 501. Housing 501 includes a lower portion 501a and an upper portion 501b, the upper portion 501b defining an internal volume 505 in which a filter element 530 is disposed. The upper portion 501b is separated from the lower portion 501a by an upper portion base 507, such that the upper portion base 507 forms the base of the internal volume 505. In several embodiments, the lower portion 501a and the upper portion 501b are integrally formed (e.g., formed in a single casting or molding step). A cover 503 is coupled to the top end of the upper portion 501b. The sidewall of the cover 503 may extend axially upward along the upper portion 501b such that a portion of the filter element 530 is disposed within the cover 503. A water reservoir 504 is connected to the bottom end of a lower portion 501a opposite to the top end of the upper portion 501b, and is configured to store water separated from dirty fuel in the water reservoir 504. A drain pipe 509 may be defined in the water reservoir 504 and is configured to allow selective discharge of collected water from the water reservoir 504.

[0066] Also refer to Figures 13-14The lower portion 501a of the housing 501 defines a first outlet 512 that allows filtered fuel to exit the housing 501 and a second outlet 514 that allows water separated from the fuel to exit the housing 501. The second outlet 514 includes a longitudinal conduit defined in the lower portion 501a of the housing 501, which is aligned with the longitudinal axis A of the filter assembly 500. L Axial alignment. The first outlet 512 may include an orthogonal conduit orthogonal to the orientation of the second outlet 514, for example, the orthogonal conduit extending orthogonally in opposite directions from the sidewall of the second outlet 514 and fluidly connected to the second outlet 514.

[0067] A filter element 530 is disposed within an internal volume 505 defined by a housing 501. The filter element 530 includes a filter medium 532, which may be disposed around a central tube 570 defining a central channel. The filter element 530 is a radial flow filter element configured to filter fuel as it flows radially from the outer radial surface of the filter medium 532 and passes through the filter medium 532, entering the central channel within the central tube 570 as filtered fuel (e.g., via a plurality of openings 572 defined in the central tube 570). An end plate 534 is attached to the lower end of the filter medium 532 near the lower portion 501a of the housing 501.

[0068] A hydrophobic layer or other water separation layer, or any other water separation feature, may be provided on the outer radial surface of the filter medium 532 to separate water from the fuel as it flows through the filter medium 532. The separated water flows through the internal volume 505 and through the outlet assembly 550 to a reservoir 504 connected to the lower portion 501a of the housing 501. An end plate 534 is connected to the lower end of the filter medium 532 near the lower portion 501a of the housing 501. Unlike filter assembly 100, filter assembly 500 does not include baffles. Instead, the separated water flows over the upper portion base 507 toward the outlet assembly 550 and through portions of the outlet assembly, as described herein, toward the reservoir 504. Removing baffles from filter assembly 500 reduces manufacturing costs and complexity. In some embodiments, the upper portion base 507 or at least the upper surface of the upper portion base 507 may taper downward toward the outlet assembly 550 (e.g., at an angle in the range of 5 to 10 degrees) so that when water pools on the outer radial surface of the filter element 530, flows downward along the outer radial surface and onto the upper portion base 507, it causes the separated water to flow toward the outlet assembly 550.

[0069] like Figures 15-16As shown, protrusion 541 extends axially upward toward filter element 530 from near the radial periphery of end plate 534. Protrusion 541 may mate with a filter element groove (e.g., filter element groove 131 described with respect to filter element 130) defined in filter medium 532. Protrusion 541 and the corresponding filter element groove 531 can provide error-proof features to ensure proper alignment of filter element 530 within internal volume 505, thereby preventing the use of non-genuine filter elements in filter assembly 500, and / or as pleat separation features to promote uniform separation of pleats in filter medium 532.

[0070] The outlet assembly 550 is coupled to each of the first outlet 512 and the second outlet 514. The outlet assembly 550 is coupled to the end plate 534, for example, integrally formed with the end plate 534. In other embodiments, the outlet assembly 550 may be a separate component coupled to the end plate 534, for example, via a connecting member, snap-fit, or welded to it. The outlet assembly 550 includes a first flow path fluidly coupled to the clean side of the filter element 530, i.e., a central channel defined by the central tube 570 and the first outlet 512. The first flow path receives filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter element 530 and delivers the filtered fuel to the first outlet 512. Furthermore, the outlet assembly 550 includes a second flow path fluidly coupled to the internal volume 505 of the housing 501 and the second outlet 514. The second flow path receives water from the internal volume 505 and delivers the water through the second outlet 514 into the water reservoir 504. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outlet assembly 550 defining the first and second flow paths is configured to pass through the second outlet 514.

[0071] like Figures 13-16 As shown, the outlet assembly 550 includes a tubular structure, a portion of which is configured to pass through the second outlet 514. The outlet assembly 550 includes an outer wall 554 defining a flow channel through it. A set of inner walls 556 are disposed within the flow channel defined by the outer wall 554 and extend radially from the central axis of the outer wall 554 to its inner surface, such that the flow channel is divided into four flow paths, two of which form a first flow path, and the remaining two flow paths form a second flow path. In other embodiments, any number of inner walls 556 can be used to form any number of flow paths, wherein any combination of flow paths is dedicated to the first and second flow paths. The outer wall 554 and the set of inner walls 556 are partially disposed in the second outlet 514, such that a portion of the outer wall 554 extends into the internal volume 505 and provides space for water flow between the end plate 534 and the upper portion base 507.

[0072] A first flow path is defined between a first portion of the outer wall 554 and the set of inner walls 556. For example, the outlet assembly 550 defines a filtered fuel inlet 552, which is in fluid communication with the central channel and configured to receive filtered fuel. The outer wall 554 defines a set of first outer wall openings 558 at locations aligned with the corresponding first outlet 512. The outlet assembly base 557 is disposed at the end of the outlet assembly 550 remote from the filter element 530 and oriented orthogonally to the outer wall 554.

[0073] A first sealing member 544 (e.g., an O-ring or gasket) is disposed between the outer wall 554 and the second outlet 514 near the filter element 530, and a second sealing member 546 (e.g., an O-ring or gasket) is disposed between the outlet assembly base 557 and the second outlet 514 at the lower end of the outlet assembly 550 away from the end of the filter element 530. The first sealing member 544 and the second sealing member 546 can be configured to provide a surface seal and / or a radial seal.

[0074] An outlet component protrusion 543 (e.g., a circumferential protrusion) projects radially outward from the outer wall 554 at a position axially upward along the first sealing member 544 of the outlet component. The outlet component protrusion 543 is configured to reside within a recess 511 (e.g., a circumferential recess) defined on the inner periphery of the upper portion base 507 when the outlet component 550 is properly positioned in the housing. For example, when the outlet component 550 is inserted into the second outlet 514, the outlet component protrusion 543 engages the recess 511, which prevents further displacement of the outlet component 550 into the second outlet 514. In this way, the outer component protrusion 543 and the recess 511 facilitate proper positioning of the outlet component 550 within the second outlet 514.

[0075] The outlet assembly 550 may also include a plurality of arms 561 that project radially from the outlet surface of the outer wall 554, for example, from the edge of the outer wall 554 toward the second outlet 514. At least a portion of each of the plurality of arms 561 may have a radial width corresponding to the radial distance between the inner surfaces of the outer wall 554 and the second outlet 514, such that the outer surface of that portion of the arm 561 contacts the inner surface of the second outlet 514, thereby (e.g., via friction engagement) securing the outlet assembly 550 within the second outlet 514. For example, as... Figure 16As shown, each of the plurality of arms 561 has a first arm portion 561a located near the end plate 534, and a second arm portion 561b extending from the first arm portion 561a toward the outlet assembly base 557. The first arm portion 561a has a constant radial width corresponding to the radial distance between the inner surfaces of the outer wall 554 and the second outlet 514. The second arm portion 561b tapers inward from the first arm portion 561a toward the outlet assembly base 557 (e.g., beveled), such that the second arm portion 561b has a progressively decreasing width. The taper of the second arm portion 561b facilitates insertion of the outlet assembly 550 into the second outlet 514, and the first arm portion 561a secures the outlet assembly 550 within the second outlet 514.

[0076] like Figure 14 As shown, the first flow path is defined as follows: starting from the filtered fuel inlet 552, passing between a first portion of the outer wall 554 and a set of inner walls 556, until the first outer wall opening 558, which is in fluid communication with the corresponding first outlet 512. The outlet assembly base 557 isolates the first flow path from the second flow path and the portion of the lower portion 501a in fluid communication with the water reservoir 504.

[0077] The second portion of the outer wall 554 near the filter element 530 defines a set of second outer wall openings 559 at a position axially and radially offset from and close to the set of first outer wall openings 558 and near the filter element 530. Figure 13 and Figure 16 The set of second outer wall openings 559 is in fluid communication with the internal volume 505. A second portion of the outer wall 554 and a set of inner walls 556 define a second flow path between them, which is different from and fluidly isolated from the first flow path. The outlet assembly base 557 defines a set of water outlets 555 in fluid communication with the second flow path. Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, the separated water flows through a set of second outer wall openings 559 between the second part of the outer wall 554 and a set of inner walls 556, through a set of water outlets 555, into the lower part 501a, which is fluidly isolated from the internal volume 505 by the upper part base 507, and thus into the water reservoir 504.

[0078] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, the term “a member” is intended to mean a single member or a combination of members, and “a material” is intended to mean one or more materials or a combination thereof.

[0079] As used herein, the term "coupled" refers to two components being directly or indirectly connected to each other. Such a connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such a connection can be achieved by the two components, or two components and any additional intermediate components, being integrally formed into a single unit, or by the two components, or two components and any additional intermediate components, being attached to each other.

[0080] It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments are merely illustrative. Although only a few embodiments are described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that many modifications (e.g., variations in the size, dimensions, structure, shape, and proportions of various elements; values ​​of parameters, installation arrangements; use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) are possible without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, it should be understood that features from one embodiment disclosed herein, as those skilled in the art will understand, can be combined with features from other embodiments disclosed herein. Other substitutions, modifications, variations, and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangements of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of this application.

[0081] While this specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limiting the scope of any embodiment or the claimed content, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations of particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of individual implementations may also be implemented in combination within a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple implementations. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, and even initially claimed in this way, in some cases, one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from the combination, and the claimed combination may refer to a sub-combination or a variation of a sub-combination.

Claims

1. A filter assembly, comprising: A housing defining an internal volume, the housing comprising: An inlet for receiving fuel. A first outlet, which allows filtered fuel to exit the internal volume, and A second outlet allows water separated from the fuel to leave the internal volume; A filter element disposed within the internal volume for filtering the fuel, thereby providing the filtered fuel and separating water from the fuel; and An outlet assembly, fluidly connected to each of the first outlet and the second outlet, the outlet assembly comprising: A first flow path, fluidly connected to the clean side of the filter element and the first outlet, is used to receive the filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter element and deliver the filtered fuel to the first outlet. A second flow path, fluidly connected to the internal volume of the housing and the second outlet, is used to receive water from the internal volume and deliver water through the second outlet. in: The second outlet is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the filter assembly, and The first exit is oriented orthogonally to the second exit.

2. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The outlet component defines at least a portion of the first flow path and the second flow path, which are configured to pass through the second outlet.

3. The filter assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The filter element includes: Filter media, and An end plate, the end plate being connected to the end of the filter medium; and The outlet component is connected to the end plate.

4. The filter assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The export component includes: An outer wall, the outer wall defining a flow channel through the outer wall; and A set of inner walls is disposed within the flow channel and extends radially from the central axis of the outer wall to the inner surface of the outer wall, such that the flow channel is divided into multiple flow paths, a first group of the multiple flow paths forming the first flow path, and a second group of the multiple flow paths forming the second flow path.

5. The filter assembly according to claim 4, wherein, The outer wall and the set of inner walls are partially disposed in the second outlet, such that a portion of the outer wall extends into the internal volume defined by the housing.

6. The filter assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein: The filter element defines a central channel, and The outlet component defines a filtered fuel inlet in fluid communication with the central channel and the first flow path, the filtered fuel inlet being configured to receive filtered fuel from the central channel.

7. The filter assembly according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, The outer wall defines a first outer wall opening at a position aligned with the corresponding first outlet.

8. The filter assembly of claim 7, wherein, A portion of the outer wall near the filter element defines a second outer wall opening, which is located axially and radially offset from the first outer wall opening and close to the filter element, and is in fluid communication with the internal volume.

9. The filter assembly according to claim 4, 5 or 8, wherein, The outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly first sealing member, which is disposed between the outer wall and the second outlet at a position close to the filter element.

10. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein, The outlet assembly further includes a second sealing member for the outlet assembly, which is disposed at the lower end of the outlet assembly away from the filter element between the outer wall and the second outlet.

11. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein: The housing includes an upper portion that defines an upper portion base, and a notch is defined on the inner periphery of the upper portion base; and The outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly protrusion that protrudes radially outward from the outer wall at a position axially upward along the first sealing member of the outlet assembly, the outlet assembly protrusion being configured to sit in the recess when the outlet assembly is properly placed in the housing.

12. A filter element for filtering fuel and separating water from the fuel, the filter element being configured to be disposed within an internal volume of a housing and comprising: Filter media, An end plate, the end plate being connected to the end of the filter medium; as well as An outlet assembly, connected to the bottom surface of the end plate, the outlet assembly comprising: The outer wall defines a flow channel passing through it, and A set of inner walls is disposed within the flow channel and extends radially from the central axis of the outer wall to the inner surface of the outer wall, such that the flow channel is divided into a plurality of flow paths. A first set of the plurality of flow paths forms a first flow path, which is fluidly connected to the clean side of the filter medium and configured to be fluidly connected to a first outlet of the housing to receive filtered fuel from the clean side of the filter medium and deliver the filtered fuel to the first outlet, thereby allowing the filtered fuel to leave the internal volume. A second set of the plurality of flow paths forms a second flow path, which is configured to be fluidly connected to the internal volume of the housing and a second outlet of the housing to receive water from the internal volume and deliver the water through the second outlet, thereby allowing water separated from the fuel to leave the internal volume.

13. The filter element according to claim 12, wherein, The outer wall and the set of inner walls are configured to be partially disposed in the second outlet, such that when the filter element is disposed in the housing, a portion of the outer wall extends into the internal volume defined by the housing.

14. The filter element according to claim 12, wherein: The filter medium defines a central channel, and The outlet component defines a filtered fuel inlet in fluid communication with the central channel and the first flow path, the filtered fuel inlet being configured to receive filtered fuel from the central channel.

15. The filter element according to any one of claims 12-14, wherein, The outer wall defines a first outer wall opening at a position where it is configured to align with the first outlet when the filter element is placed in the housing.

16. The filter element according to claim 15, wherein, A portion of the outer wall near the filter element defines a second outer wall opening located axially and radially offset from the first outer wall opening and close to the filter medium. The second outer wall opening is configured to communicate with the internal volume fluidly when the filter element is placed in the housing.

17. The filter element according to any one of claims 12-14 and 16, wherein, The outlet assembly further includes an outlet assembly first sealing member, which is disposed on the radial outer surface of the outer wall near the filter medium.

18. The filter element according to claim 17, wherein, The outlet assembly further includes a second sealing member for the outlet assembly, which is disposed on the radial outer surface of the outer wall at the lower end of the outlet assembly away from the filter medium.

19. The filter element according to any one of claims 12-14, 16 and 18, wherein, The export component also includes: A plurality of arms, each of which protrudes radially outward from the outer surface of the outer wall, comprising: The first portion of the arm has a constant radial width, and The second portion of the arm tapers radially inward from the first portion of the arm toward the base of the outlet assembly located distal to the end plate, the first portion of the arm having a width that decreases progressively from the first portion of the arm to the base of the outlet assembly.

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