Fuel filter passage with downward fuel flow direction

Abstract

A combination of a central tube (300) and a central fluid supply tube (400) includes a central tube (300) body defining a longitudinal length (314) and a central reservoir (302). The central tube (300) also includes a perforated annular wall extending axially for most of the longitudinal length (314), and a first annular solid wall (308) extending axially from the perforated annular wall (310). The central fluid supply tube (400) is disposed in the central reservoir (302) and includes a second annular solid wall (410) radially surrounded by the perforated annular wall (310) of the central tube (300). The second annular solid wall (410) defines a supply channel (402) having full circulation capacity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to canister-type filter systems employing replaceable filter elements as fuel-water separators. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a filter element for use with such filter systems that maximizes the amount of water removed by the fuel-water separator and facilitates the installation of the replaceable filter element without it falling out of the canister during installation. Background Technology

[0002] Liquid filter systems are known to be used to filter various fluids, such as gases, oils, and diesel fuel, to remove contaminants from these fluids. For example, in a diesel engine, a fuel filter is used to separate water and debris from the fuel. In a particular system, a series of at least two filters are used. First, a fuel-water separator may be employed to remove water (and some debris in some applications) from the fuel. Next, another fuel filter is connected in series or inline with the fuel-water separator, which is focused on removing debris from the fuel.

[0003] In some applications, fuel-water separators are mounted on filter bases to assemble canister filter systems (sometimes referred to as "top-loaded" canister filter systems). In this case, fuel can be forced to flow upwards into the filter media designed to separate water from the fuel. This upward flow may not always allow water droplets that have already been separated from the fuel to ideally collect in a collection bowl (sometimes called a "water bowl") or reservoir, thus reducing the filter's ability to remove water from the fuel as intended.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 5,084,170 A discloses a fuel filter assembly employing a base on which a disposable filter element cartridge is mounted. The cartridge includes a two-stage filtration system in which fuel flows axially to a primary filter element for removing particulate matter and coalescing water droplets, and then axially to a secondary filter stage that acts as a water barrier. The filter fuel flows axially and exits through an outlet passage in the base. Water can be collected in a reservoir. The cartridge is held on the base by a collar that engages with a rolled interface structure abutting the cartridge. In one embodiment, the base has a cartridge-tank configuration for receiving the cartridge.

[0005] It can be seen that the '170 patent does not disclose a fuel-water separator that maximizes the amount of water removed, because a smaller percentage of the filtration process is focused on water removal and occurs after filtering debris from the fuel. In the '170 patent... Figure 2 It is clear that water may be unwantedly collected in the first stage of filtration before reaching the water bowl or storage tank.

[0006] Furthermore, while the central tube of the filter element provides support for the filter media, it may not always provide the desired position and retention. This is especially true for top-loaded filter elements, which may have a tendency to fall out of the canister (sometimes called the housing) if the canister is inverted before being secured by fasteners, threads, etc. Prior art, including the '170 patent, does not disclose a solution to this problem. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A canister-type filter system according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a filter element that is at least partially cylindrical and defines a longitudinal axis and a radial direction. The filter element may also include an annular filter medium defining a central channel, a central tube disposed in the central channel of the annular filter medium defining a central reservoir, and a plurality of orifices in fluid communication with the central reservoir, the annular filter medium surrounding the central tube, the plurality of orifices, and the central reservoir. A central fluid supply pipe may be disposed in the central reservoir of the central tube, defining a supply channel not in fluid communication with the central reservoir. A top open end may be connected to the central tube disposed along the longitudinal axis, and a bottom open end may be connected to the central tube disposed along the longitudinal axis opposite to the top open end. A canister may be provided including a top closed end and a bottom open end disposed along the longitudinal axis, and an upper sealing portion disposed near the bottom open end. A base may define the top open end, the bottom open end, and a lower sealing portion facing the upper sealing portion of the canister. Furthermore, the filter element may be configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the filter element into the central tube and resist water from passing through the filter element.

[0008] A filter element according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include at least a partially annular configuration defining a longitudinal axis, a radial direction, and a circumferential direction. The filter element may further include an annular filter medium defining a central channel, a central tube disposed within the central channel of the annular filter medium defining a central reservoir, and a plurality of orifices in fluid communication with the central reservoir, the annular filter medium surrounding the central tube, the plurality of orifices, and the central reservoir. A central fluid supply pipe may be disposed within the central reservoir of the central tube, defining a supply channel not in fluid communication with the central reservoir, and defining a full circulation flow. A top open end may be connected to the central tube disposed along the longitudinal axis, the top open end including an opening allowing fluid to flow from the central reservoir to the outside of the filter element, and a bottom end may be connected to the central tube disposed along the longitudinal axis opposite to the top open end.

[0009] The central tube and central fluid supply tube assembly according to embodiments of the present disclosure may include a central tube body defining a longitudinal axis, a radial direction, a circumferential direction, a longitudinal length, and a central reservoir. The central tube may also include a perforated annular wall extending axially along a substantial portion of its longitudinal length, and a first annular solid wall extending axially from the perforated annular wall. The central fluid supply tube may be disposed within the central reservoir and may include a second annular solid wall radially surrounding the perforated annular wall of the central tube and defining a supply channel with full circulation capacity. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a front sectional view of a filter assembly including a fuel-water separator constructed according to embodiments of the present disclosure, and a secondary fuel filter connected inline (or in series) to the fuel-water separator after the fuel-water separator.

[0011] Figure 2 This is an enlarged, detailed view of the top portion of the fuel-water separator, showing a base / canister with a trough and a central tube with a central fluid supply pipe having tabs that engage with the trough to hold the fuel-water separator to the canister.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A further enlarged, detailed view, with the filter media and outer portion of the central tube removed, more clearly shows the central fluid supply pipe and its fins fitting into the groove of the base / canister. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of this disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in all the drawings to denote the same or similar parts. In some cases, the reference numerals will be indicated in this specification, and the drawings will show reference numerals followed by letters, such as 100a, 100b, or superscript indicators such as 100', 100'', etc. It should be understood that the use of letters or superscript symbols immediately following the reference numerals indicates that these features are similarly formed and have similar functions, as is often the case when the geometry is mirrored about a plane of symmetry. For ease of explanation in this specification, letters or superscript symbols are generally not included herein but may be shown in the drawings to indicate repetition of features discussed within this written specification.

[0014] First, a filter system will now be described to give the reader appropriate context for understanding how to use the various embodiments of this disclosure. It should be understood that this description is given by way of example and is not intended to be limiting. Any embodiment of the apparatus or method described herein can be used in conjunction with any filter system.

[0015] Next, filter elements configured to maximize water removal in fuel-water separators or other similar applications, according to various embodiments, will be discussed. In some embodiments, a central tube with a central fluid supply tube may be provided, which allows fuel to flow upwards before reaching the filter media near the top of the filter system, thereby maximizing the amount of water removed.

[0016] The canister filter system 100 can be used to filter fluids such as diesel or gasoline or other liquid fuels, lubricating oils, hydraulic fluids for hydraulic power systems, transmission fluids, or even engine intake air. The canister filter system 100 can also be used as a fuel / water separator filter. The canister filter system 100 having the features described herein can be adapted by those skilled in the art for many different purposes and is suitable for many other applications. Furthermore, the properties or features of a fuel-water separator of one embodiment can be used in a debris filter according to another embodiment, and vice versa, etc.

[0017] Figure 1 A canister filter system 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The canister filter system 100 includes a filter element 200 (e.g., a fuel-water separator), which is at least partially cylindrical in configuration and defines a longitudinal axis 202, a radial direction 204, and a circumferential direction 205 (see [link]). Figure 2 ).

[0018] More specifically, such as Figure 2 As best shown, filter element 200 may include an annular filter medium 206 defining a central channel 208, a central tube 300 disposed in the central channel 208 of the annular filter medium 206 defining a central reservoir 302, and a plurality of orifices 304 in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302. See also Figure 1 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, the annular filter medium 206 surrounds the central tube 300, a plurality of orifices 304, and a central reservoir 302. For example... Figure 2 As best shown, the top open end 210 can be connected to the central tube 300 disposed along the longitudinal axis 202, and the bottom open end 212 (see...) Figure 1 It can be connected to a central tube 300 opposite to the top open end 210, which is also arranged along the longitudinal axis 202.

[0019] In addition, such as Figure 1 As best shown, the central fluid supply pipe 400 may be disposed in the central reservoir 302 of the central pipe 300, defining a supply channel 402 that is not in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302.

[0020] A cylindrical container 102 (also referred to as a shell) may also be provided, which includes a top closed end 104 and a bottom open end 106 disposed along a longitudinal axis 202, an upper sealing portion 108 disposed near the bottom open end 106 (i.e., a seal relative to the contacting portion, which will be discussed below), and a base 110 defining the top open end 112, the bottom open end 114, and a lower sealing portion 116 facing the upper sealing portion 108 of the cylindrical container 102 (i.e., a seal relative to the contacting portion).

[0021] The filter element 200 can be configured to selectively allow fluid to pass through the filter element 200 into the central tube 300, and to resist water from passing through the filter element 200. In some embodiments, the annular filter media 206 may include a waterproof material (e.g., a hydrophobic membrane may be used).

[0022] The base 110 may include an internal thread 118 provided adjacent to the top open end 112 of the base 110, while the can 102 includes an external thread 120 provided adjacent to the bottom open end 106 of the can 102, which mates with the internal thread 118 of the base 110.

[0023] Look more closely Figure 2 The central fluid supply pipe 400 includes a rotating body 404 (so named because at least a portion of its body can be modeled by a geometry that rotates about an axis) and an inner tapered surface 404 defining a supply channel 402 (see [link to documentation]). Figure 1 The supply channel 402 has a full diameter that increases along an upward axial direction 406 (as opposed to annular or other obstruction configurations). This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure. The inner tapered surface can provide a slope, allowing the central fluid supply tube to be more easily manufactured via a molding process.

[0024] Continue to refer to Figure 1 The inlet pipe 122 can extend from the base 110 and engage with the central fluid supply pipe 400 to form a fluid tight seal with the central fluid supply pipe 400 in a manner that will be described more fully later herein. This seal prevents the mixing of filtered fluid with unfiltered fluid.

[0025] The base 110 also defines an inlet 124 and an outlet 126, the inlet 124 being in fluid communication with an inlet pipe 122 for introducing a fluid to be filtered (e.g., fuel-water), and the outlet 126 being in fluid communication with a central reservoir 302 of the central pipe 300 for conveying filtered fluid (e.g., fuel) to the next filtration stage (e.g., a debris filter element, not shown).

[0026] In some embodiments, the integral sealing member 214 may be attached to the bottom open end 212 of the filter element 200. The integral sealing member 214 may include a radially inner mounting portion 216, a radially outer sealing portion 218, and a perforated connection portion 220 extending from the radially inner mounting portion 216 to the radially outer sealing portion 218. After installation, the radially outer sealing portion 218 contacts the upper sealing portion 108 of the canister 102 and the lower sealing portion 116 of the base 110 below the internal threads 118 of the base 110 and the external threads 120 of the canister 102. Other arrangements and configurations of these various features are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure. This seal can help prevent fluid leakage from the canister filter system 100.

[0027] The cylindrical container 102 also includes an outer wall 128 (see also...) Figure 2 The outer wall 128 is radially spaced outward from the annular filter medium 206, forming a downward-flowing fluid passage 130, which connects with the downward-extending water collection passage 132 (see...). Figure 1 Fluid communication is maintained. Therefore, water that cannot pass through the annular filter medium 206 is directed downward through passages 130, 132 to a water bowl (not shown) attached to the bottom opening end 114 of the base 110 (e.g., via threads).

[0028] Look more closely Figure 1 In the base 110, an annular wall 134 radially surrounds the inlet pipe 122. This annular wall 134 radially contacts the radially inner mounting portion 216, forming a fluid-tight seal with it. This helps to force the fuel-water supply fluid upward through the central fluid supply pipe 400 until it reaches the radially extending flow path 138 defined by the top wall 140 of the tank (see also...). Figure 2 The top wall 140 is axially spaced from the top opening 210 of the filter element 200. A radially extending flow passage 138 is in fluid communication with a downwardly flowing fluid passage 130 (in an annular configuration). The tank 102 also has a defined central flow channel 512 (see...). Figure 1 The base 500 (which may be attached to or integrally formed with the tank) has a central flow channel 512 in fluid communication with the supply channel 402 of the central fluid supply pipe 400. The base 500 defines an orifice 510 that provides fluid communication between the central flow channel 512 and the radially extending flow passage 138, thereby completing the flow loop of the first filtration stage, which will be discussed in further detail later in this document.

[0029] The central tube 300 may also include a riser 316, which includes another inner conical surface 318 spaced apart from the central fluid supply tube 400, the inner conical surface 318 defining a downward flow channel 320 having an increasing flow flux in a downward axial direction (opposite to 406).

[0030] The filter element 200, which can be used with the canister filter system 100 just discussed, will now be described. The filter element 200 may be a replacement.

[0031] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 The filter element 200 may include at least a partially annular configuration and is defined as longitudinal axis 202, radial direction 204 and circumferential direction 205 as mentioned above herein.

[0032] The filter element 200 may include an annular filter medium 206 defining a central channel 208, a central tube 300 disposed in the central channel 208 of the annular filter medium 206 defining a central reservoir 302, and a plurality of orifices 304 in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302. The annular filter medium 206 may surround the central tube 300 and the plurality of orifices 304, as well as the central reservoir 302. As a result of this arrangement, fluid can pass through the filter medium, then through the orifices of the central tube, and into the central reservoir. A top opening may be provided, as mentioned above, as well as a bottom end, which may be open or closed, etc.

[0033] A central fluid supply pipe 400 can be disposed within a central reservoir 302 of a central pipe 300, forming an annular channel therebetween. Alternatively, the pipe 400 can define a supply channel 402 that is not in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302 and defines a complete circulation flow. That is, the supply channel 402 can be unobstructed to maximize the incoming fluid flow (e.g., ...). Figure 1 (As shown in the best example).

[0034] like Figure 2 As best shown, the central tube 300 may include an annular frame 306, and the central fluid supply tube 400 may include a platform 408 extending radially outward from the central fluid supply tube 400. The platform 408 may engage the annular frame 306 (in some embodiments, this may form a fluid-tight seal). In some embodiments, the platform may be attached to the annular frame via welding, adhesive, overmolding, etc. The central fluid supply tube may include an elastomer, rubber, or foam material to provide flexibility and sealing capability. In other embodiments, the central fluid supply tube may include a more rigid material, such as plastics (e.g., thermoplastics, polyurethane, etc.). In some embodiments, the annular filter media 206 may include a waterproof material.

[0035] See Figure 2 It is understood that the central tube 300 may include a solid wall 308 (i.e., without holes) extending axially upward from the annular frame 306 to the top open end 210 of the filter element 200, and a perforated wall 310 extending axially downward from the annular frame 306. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the axial length of the perforated wall may be about 80% or more of the total axial length of the central tube (e.g., about 87% to 89%), while the axial length of the solid wall may be less than 10% of the total axial length of the central tube (e.g., about 6% to 7%). In other embodiments of this disclosure, these ratios may differ.

[0036] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the central fluid supply tube 400 includes a tapered surface defining a supply channel 402 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1 The inner conical surface 404 shown, and the maximum diameter 411 near the top opening end 210 of the filter element 200. In other embodiments of this disclosure, a relative arrangement may be used.

[0037] As in Figure 1 As best shown, an integral sealing member 214 may be attached to the filter element 200. This integral sealing member includes a sealing portion (e.g., a radially outer sealing portion 218) configured radially away from the annular filter medium 206 and axially between the top open end 210 and the bottom end (e.g., the bottom open end 212) of the filter element 200. This may not be the case in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0038] The central tube 300 may also include a riser 316 that extends axially upward from the bottom end of the filter element 200 toward the platform 408 of the central fluid supply tube 400. The riser 316 may be axially spaced from the platform 408 of the central fluid supply tube 400 and radially outward away from the central fluid supply tube 400, forming a downward flow channel 320 therebetween, as mentioned earlier herein.

[0039] Next, the central tube and / or central fluid supply tube may be supplied as a separate component, assembly, or integral part to manufacture the filter element 200 just described, which will refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 Let's have a discussion.

[0040] See Figure 2 This combination of central tube 300 and central fluid supply tube 400 can be characterized as follows. The central tube body 312 can define a longitudinal axis (e.g., the same as 202), a radial direction (e.g., the same as 204), a circumferential direction (e.g., the same as 205), and a longitudinal length 314 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1As shown), and a central reservoir 302. A perforated annular wall (e.g., perforated wall 310) may extend axially for most of the longitudinal length 314, and a first annular solid wall (e.g., solid wall 308) may extend axially from the perforated annular wall. A central fluid supply pipe 400 may be disposed in the central reservoir 302, which includes a second annular solid wall 410 radially surrounded by the perforated annular wall (e.g., perforated wall 310) of the central pipe 300. This wall 410 may radially surround and define a supply channel 402 with full circulation. In other words, the surface area perpendicular to the fluid flow in this channel is perfectly circular and unobstructed. This may not be the case for other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0041] Concentrated Figure 2 The central tube 300 includes a radially outwardly extending bracket 306a axially disposed between a perforated annular wall (e.g., perforated wall 310) and a first annular solid wall (e.g., solid wall 308), facing upward (along direction 406). This may not be the case for other embodiments of this disclosure. The central fluid supply tube 400 may include a radially outwardly extending rib 408a resting on the radially outwardly extending bracket 306a of the central tube 300. A second annular solid wall 410 (in...) Figure 1 (Best shown in the diagram) can extend axially upward through a radially outwardly extending frame 408a, radially surrounded by a first annular solid wall (e.g., solid wall 308). Other arrangements are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0042] like Figure 2 As best shown, the riser 316 is radially positioned between a portion of the perforated annular wall 310 of the central tube 300 and the second annular solid wall 410 of the central fluid supply tube 400. This may not be the case for other embodiments of this disclosure. More specifically, the riser may define an upper axial end 322 that is axially spaced from radially outwardly extending ribs 408a and radially spaced from the second annular solid wall 410. The inner tapered surfaces 318, 404 of the riser 316 are positioned relative to the central fluid supply tube 400 (see...). Figure 1 The molds can have relative axial angles. That is, one is deflected for demolding along direction 406, while the other is deflected for demolding along the opposite axial direction. This may not be the case for other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0043] In some embodiments, the central tube 300 comprises a first material (e.g., a plastic such as polyurethane), while the central fluid supply tube comprises a second material (e.g., an elastomer, rubber, etc.) that is different from and more flexible than the first material. Figure 1As best shown, the central fluid supply pipe 400 may include an axial bottom end 418, which lies in a plane including the longitudinal axis 202 and the radial direction 204 (e.g., Figure 1 The cross-sectional plane has a wavy sealing profile 420. This feature can mate with complementary (or non-complementary) shape features of the inlet pipe 122 of the base 110 to form a fluid-tight seal. This feature can also take the form of a seal receiving hole, such as a groove configured to receive an O-ring or another type of seal, etc. Figure 1 As shown.

[0044] In other embodiments, the central fluid supply tube may be made of a plastic such as polyurethane, for example, the same as the central tube. Other combinations of materials are possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0045] Next, we will refer to Figures 1 to 3 The present disclosure describes various embodiments of a canister filter system that can be assembled to mitigate some of the aforementioned problems.

[0046] exist Figures 1 to 3 In this context, the canister filter system 100 may include a filter element 200 constructed in a manner similar to that previously described herein, including having an annular filter medium 206, a central tube 300, a central fluid supply tube 400, and a canister 102.

[0047] However, as in Figure 3 As best shown, a base 500 may also be provided, comprising at least a partially annular body 502 including an annular wall 504 terminating at a bottom free end 506 and defining a groove 508 extending axially upward and circumferentially from the bottom free end 506. A flow orifice 510 may extend through the annular wall 504, as mentioned earlier herein. The base 500 may be attached to the top closed end 104 of the canister 102 by integral molding, adhesion, welding, etc., with the canister 102. In other embodiments of this disclosure, the shape and number of grooves and flow orifices may vary as needed or desired. For example, two similar or identically configured grooves may be provided on opposite sides of the base. Similarly, a central fluid supply conduit may include two opposing tabs engaging with two opposing grooves, etc.

[0048] The canister 102 may define an interior 144 and an exterior 146, and a base 500 may be disposed within the interior 144. The base 500 may have a portion extending through a hole 148 in the canister 102 to a drive structure 514 (e.g., a hexagonal drive structure designed for rotation using a wrench, socket, etc.), which is disposed on the exterior 146 or on the top of the canister 102. In other embodiments of this disclosure, the drive structure may be omitted or may be configured differently.

[0049] The flow holes 510 can have any suitable configuration, such as a cylindrical configuration, and can be, but not necessarily, arranged at least partially axially, circumferentially, and radially above the groove 508, as shown in the figure. In various embodiments of this disclosure, the shape and number of these flow holes can be varied as needed or desired.

[0050] The central fluid supply pipe 400 may include a solid annular wall radially disposed within an annular wall 504 of the base 500 (see, for example, reference numeral 410). A tab 422 extends radially outward from the solid annular wall of the central fluid supply pipe 400 and may be disposed in a groove 508 of the base 500 (see...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 ).

[0051] Still refer to Figure 3 The groove 508 may include a ramp portion 516 extending upward in both the circumferential and axial directions, and this ramp portion 516 is configured to pull the filter element 200 upward in the canister 102. At this point, the canister and the filter element form a sub-assembly that can be more easily attached to the base.

[0052] The tab 422 may include a tapered or cylindrical configuration, and the groove 508 may form a positioning groove 518, which is disposed adjacent to the ramp portion 516 to help prevent unwanted rotation and disassembly of the filter element 200 from the canister 102. In other embodiments of this disclosure, these various features may be configured differently or omitted entirely.

[0053] It is conceivable that, in other embodiments of this disclosure, the grooves and tabs of the base and the central fluid supply pipe may be interchanged.

[0054] When referring to Figure 1 As mentioned earlier, the supply channel 402 of the central fluid supply pipe 400 may not be in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302 of the central pipe 300, but this is not necessarily the case. This channel may define the flow rate, and the longitudinal axis 202 may pass through the flow rate. Specifically, the longitudinal axis may pass through the center of the circulating flow rate of this channel.

[0055] As previously described herein, an integral sealing member 214 may be provided attached to the bottom opening end 212 of the filter element 200. The integral sealing member 214 may include a radially inner mounting portion 216, a radially outer sealing portion 218, and a perforated connection portion 220 extending from the radially inner mounting portion 216 to the radially outer sealing portion 218.

[0056] Now refer to Figures 1 to 3 The discussion focuses on filter element 200, which can be used with filter elements according to various embodiments of this disclosure just described. It should be understood that, relative to debris filter element 200a, it can also have the characteristic of easy assembly, and vice versa.

[0057] from Figure 1 Initially, filter elements 200, 200a may include at least a partially annular configuration and define a longitudinal axis 202, a radial direction 204, and a circumferential direction 205. Filter elements 200, 200a may include an annular filter medium 206 defining a central channel 208, with a central tube 300 disposed within the central channel 208 of the annular filter medium 206, the central tube 300 defining a central reservoir 302. The annular filter medium 206 may surround the central tube 300 and the central reservoir 302.

[0058] For filter element 200, a central fluid supply pipe 400 may be disposed in a central reservoir 302 of central pipe 300, defining a supply channel 402. This feature may be omitted for filter element 200a.

[0059] For the two filter elements 200, 200a, the top opening end 210 can be connected to the central tube 300 arranged along the longitudinal axis 202. The top opening end 210 includes an opening 222 that allows fluid to flow from the central reservoir 302 to the outside of the filter elements 200, 200a.

[0060] In addition, the bottom opening end 212 can be connected to the center tube 300, which is located along the longitudinal axis 202 and is opposite to the top opening end 210.

[0061] Considering the two filter elements 200 and 200a, the locking feature (see...) Figure 2 and Figure 3 The ) can be configured near the top opening end 210, including a tab 422 extending radially from the central tube 300 or the central fluid supply tube 400, or a groove 508 formed on the central tube 300 or the central fluid supply tube 400 and extending axially and circumferentially.

[0062] for Figure 2 and Figure 3The filter element 200 shown in the diagram has a supply channel 402 of the central fluid supply pipe 400 that is not in fluid communication with the central reservoir 302 of the central pipe 300, and defines a complete circulation flow. Furthermore, the locking component includes a tab 422 extending radially outward from the central fluid supply pipe 400.

[0063] Furthermore, the central tube 300 includes an annular frame 306 extending radially outward from the central reservoir 302, and the central fluid supply tube 400 includes a platform 408 extending radially outward from the central fluid supply tube 400. The platform 408 engages the annular frame 306, and a tab 422 is axially disposed above the platform 408 and includes a cylindrical or conical shape.

[0064] As described earlier herein, the central fluid supply tube 400 may include an elastomer, rubber, or foam material, and the annular filter media 206 may include a waterproof material. This may not be the case for other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0065] Furthermore, the central tube 300 may include a solid wall 308 extending axially upward from the annular frame 306 to the top open end 210 of the filter element 200, and a perforated wall 310 extending axially downward from the annular frame 306. Other configurations may be provided in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0066] Let's take a look together Figure 1 and Figure 3 The central fluid supply tube 400 may include another solid wall (e.g., see reference numeral 410) and a diameter 411 that defines a radially inner tapered surface defining the supply channel 402 (e.g., see reference numeral 404). The diameter 411 is maximized near the top opening end 210 of the filter element 200, and the tab 422 extends radially outward from the solid wall.

[0067] The integral sealing member 214 may be attached to the filter element 200 and includes a sealing portion (e.g., see reference numeral 218) that is arranged radially away from the annular filter medium 206 and axially between the top open end 210 and the bottom end (e.g., see reference numeral 212).

[0068] The base / canister assembly can be supplied as an alternative. The base 500 itself can have defined longitudinal axis, radial direction, and circumferential direction (which can be used with...). Figure 2The filter element 200 shown has an annular body 502 (with the longitudinal axis 202, radial direction 204, and circumferential direction 205 being the same). The body 502 may also include an annular wall 504 terminating at a bottom free end 506, defining a groove 508 extending axially upward and circumferentially from the bottom free end 506. A flow hole 510 may extend through the annular wall 504, which is axially disposed above the groove 508 (i.e., at a horizontal level above the groove).

[0069] like Figure 3 As best shown, the groove 508 may include an axial portion 520 and a circumferential portion 522, with the circumferential portion 522 extending circumferentially along a wavy path 524, forming a lower support point 526 at the intersection of the axial portion 520 and the circumferential portion 522. This feature helps prevent the filter element 200 from being accidentally rotated and removed from the canister 102.

[0070] More specifically, the circumferential portion 522 moves axially downward to define a groove 528, which is circumferentially spaced from the lower support point 526, and then extends upward and terminates to form a ramp portion 516.

[0071] The cylindrical portion (see, for example, reference numeral 102) includes an annular outer wall (see, for example, reference numeral 128) and a top wall 140 that is radially spaced from the annular wall 504 of the base 500. The top wall 140 is axially disposed above the base 500 and attached to the base 500 in various ways as previously described herein.

[0072] The drive structure 514 may also be attached to a base 500 that extends through a hole 148 in the top wall 140 and is axially above the top wall 140. Other configurations of the canister portion and the base are also possible in other embodiments of this disclosure.

[0073] The integral sealing component and / or central fluid supply line can be constructed using any suitable materials and manufacturing processes. For example, urethane material with a hardness of 20 to 95 Shore A (e.g., 60 Shore A) can be used, which is injection molded. Alternatively, rigid polyurethane, etc., can be used.

[0074] Any of the foregoing features, components, or assemblies may be configured differently in other embodiments of this disclosure from those specifically shown and described herein.

[0075] Industrial applicability

[0076] In fact, filter elements, center tubes, center fluid supply lines, bases, canisters, base / canister combinations, center tube and center fluid supply line combinations, or canister filter systems according to any embodiment disclosed herein may be available or supplied in OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or secondary market environments. These components may be used in a variety of ways and filtration grades as well as applications.

[0077] See Figure 1 Various embodiments of the present disclosure can be used to increase water removal in a fuel-water separator. Initially, a fluid such as a fuel-water mixture may flow into inlet 124 and, as shown, flow to inlet pipe 122, through central fluid supply pipe 400 to base 142, then over the top of filter element 200 via base 142, and down along the side of filter element 200.

[0078] Once the fuel-water mixture reaches the radial outer surface of the annular filter media 206, the fuel and water tend to separate. Since the fuel is lighter than water, the water will naturally begin to condense and fall into the water bowl (not shown). Furthermore, due to its hydrophobic properties, water cannot pass through the annular filter media 206, also causing water to fall into the water bowl. The water bowl can be removed, emptied, and reattached to the base as needed or desired. Alternatively, a tap or valve can be supplied for drainage.

[0079] In this separation process, filtered fuel and condensate are kept separate from the incoming fuel-water mixture by a fluid tight seal provided between the integral sealing member 214 and the annular wall 136 at point A, between the inlet pipe 122 and the central fluid supply pipe 400 at point B, and between the central fluid supply pipe 400 and the central pipe 300 at point C (see [link to documentation]). Figure 2 ).

[0080] Because the water-fuel mixture is forced to run along the entire axial length of the annular filter media 206, water removal efficiency can be improved or even maximized in some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0081] Then, the fuel or other fluid passes through the annular filter medium 206, then through the holes 304 of the central tube 300, upwards and downwards through the riser, downwards through the central reservoir 302, and reaches the outlet 126, and finally reaches the next filtration stage.

[0082] Various embodiments of this disclosure also facilitate assembly. See also Figures 1 to 3 Those skilled in the art will understand that the filter element can be attached to the tank as follows to form a sub-assembly.

[0083] First, filter elements 200 and 200a are inserted axially upwards until the tab 422 is inserted into the groove 508. Then, filter elements 200 and 200a are rotated so that the tab 422 does not easily fall out of the groove 508. Filter elements 200 and 200a are now attached to the canister 102. Depending on the configuration of the tab 422 and the groove 508, and the amount of rotation of filter elements 200 and 200a relative to the canister 102, filter elements 200 and 200a can be positioned in a desired axial position relative to the canister 102.

[0084] Next, the canister / filter element subassembly is inserted into the inlet pipe 122 of the base 110. Finally, the subassembly is secured to the base 110, completing the assembly process for at least one filtration stage of the canister filter system 100. During these steps, a suitable seal is formed to prevent unfiltered fluid from mixing with filtered fluid, or leakage from the system, etc.

[0085] Fixed child components can be implemented in various ways, including using methods such as... Figure 1 The threaded connections shown use fasteners, clamps, etc.

[0086] It should be understood that the foregoing description provides examples of the disclosed components and techniques. However, it is conceivable that other embodiments of this disclosure may differ in detail from the foregoing examples. All references to this disclosure or examples thereof are intended to refer to the specific examples discussed at that point and are not intended to imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure more generally. All language used to distinguish and derogatoryly describe certain features is intended to lack any preference for those features, but does not, unless otherwise stated, completely exclude them from the scope of this disclosure.

[0087] Unless otherwise stated herein, the description of the range of values ​​herein is intended only as a shorthand for individually referring to each individual value falling within that range, and each individual value is incorporated into the description as if it were described individually herein.

[0088] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the devices and assembly methods discussed herein without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. Other embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the practice of the specification and the various embodiments disclosed herein. For example, some devices may be constructed and operated differently than those already described herein, and certain steps of any method may be omitted, performed in a different order than specifically mentioned, or in some cases performed simultaneously or as sub-steps. Furthermore, variations or modifications can be made to certain aspects or features of the various embodiments to produce further embodiments, and features and aspects of the various embodiments may be added to or substituted for other features or aspects of other embodiments to provide yet more further embodiments.

[0089] Therefore, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter described in the appended claims as permitted by applicable law. Furthermore, any combination of the foregoing elements in all possible variations is covered by this disclosure unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by the context.

Claims

1. A filter element (200) comprising at least a partially annular arrangement and defining a longitudinal axis (202), a radial direction (204), and a circumferential direction (205), the filter element (200) comprising: An annular filter medium (206) defines a central channel (208). A central tube (300) is disposed in the central channel (208) of the annular filter medium (206), the central tube (300) defining a central reservoir (302) and a plurality of holes (304) in fluid communication with the central reservoir (302), and the annular filter medium (206) surrounds the central tube (300), the plurality of holes (304) and the central reservoir (302). A central fluid supply pipe (400) is disposed in the central reservoir (302) of the central pipe (300), defining a supply channel (402) that is not in fluid communication with the central reservoir (302) and defining a complete circulation flow rate. A top opening (210) is connected to the central tube (300) disposed along the longitudinal axis (202), the top opening (210) including an opening (222) that allows fluid to flow from a central fluid supply tube (400) in the central reservoir (302) to the outside of the filter element (200); and The bottom end (212) is connected to the central tube (300) disposed along the longitudinal axis (202) opposite to the top opening end (210); wherein the central tube (300) includes an annular frame (306), and the central fluid supply tube (400) includes a platform (408) extending radially outward from the central fluid supply tube (400), and the platform (408) engages the annular frame (306).

2. The filter element (200) according to claim 1, wherein the central fluid supply tube (400) comprises an elastomer, rubber, plastic or foam material, and the annular filter medium (206) comprises a waterproof material.

3. The filter element (200) according to claim 2, wherein the platform (408) of the central fluid supply pipe (400) forms a fluid seal with the annular frame (306) of the central pipe (300).

4. The filter element (200) according to claim 3, wherein the central tube (300) comprises a solid wall (308) extending axially upward from the annular frame (306) to the top open end (210) of the filter element (200), a perforated wall extending axially downward from the annular frame (306), and a vertical tube (316) extending axially upward from the bottom end (212) of the filter element (200) toward the platform (408) of the central fluid supply tube (400), the vertical tube (316) being axially spaced from the platform (408) and radially outward away from the central fluid supply tube (400), forming a downward flow (320) channel between the vertical tube (316) and the central fluid supply tube (400).

5. The filter element (200) of claim 1, wherein the central fluid supply conduit (400) includes a tapered surface (404) defining the supply channel (402) and a maximum diameter (411) near the top opening end (210) of the filter element (200), and further includes: An integral sealing member (214) is attached to the filter element (200) and includes a sealing portion (218) which is arranged radially away from the annular filter medium (206) and axially between the top opening end (210) and the bottom end (212).

6. A combination of a central tube (300) and a central fluid supply tube (400), comprising: A central tube (300) body defining a longitudinal axis (202), a radial direction (204), a circumferential direction (205), and a longitudinal length (314) and a central reservoir (302), and including a perforated annular wall extending axially along most of the longitudinal length (314), and a first annular solid wall extending axially from the perforated annular wall; and A central fluid supply tube (400) is disposed in the central reservoir (302) and includes a second annular solid wall (410) radially surrounded by the perforated annular wall of the central tube (300), and the central fluid supply tube (400) defines a supply channel (402) having full circulation capacity; wherein the central tube (300) defines a radially outwardly extending frame (306a), and the central fluid supply tube (400) includes radially outwardly extending ribs (408a) resting on the radially outwardly extending frame (306a).

7. The combination of the central tube (300) and the central fluid supply tube (400) according to claim 6, wherein the radially outwardly extending frame (306a) is axially disposed between the perforated annular wall and the first annular solid wall (308), with its axial surface facing upward, and the second annular solid wall (410) extends axially upward through the radially outwardly extending frame (306a) and is radially surrounded by the first annular solid wall (308).

8. The combination of the central tube (300) and the central fluid supply tube (400) according to claim 7 further includes a riser (316) radially located between a portion of the perforated annular wall of the central tube (300) and the second annular solid wall (410) of the central fluid supply tube (400).

9. The combination of the central tube (300) and the central fluid supply tube (400) according to claim 8, wherein the vertical tube (316) defines an upper axial end (322), the upper axial end (322) being axially spaced from the radially outwardly extending rib (408a) and radially spaced from the second annular solid wall (410) of the central fluid supply tube (400), the second annular solid wall (410) and the vertical tube (316) having opposing axial slopes; and The central fluid supply pipe (400) also includes an axial bottom end (418) having a wavy sealing profile (420) in a plane including the longitudinal axis (202) and the radial direction (204).

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