Liquid filter device and flow add-on element

Abstract

A liquid filter device (400) comprising: a housing having a filter cartridge contained therein, which in turn contains a filter material (430); and a flow-through attachment element (420) connected to the housing and configured to transfer the liquid to be filtered to the filter material (430) and to transfer the liquid filtered through the filter material (430) out of the liquid filter; wherein the flow-through additional element (420) comprises: a flow separator (425) configured to localize the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter, the flow separator (425) having a nozzle (421) connected to a plate member, the nozzle (421) extending outwardly and distally through the plate member and from one end of the filter material (430), and the flow separator (425) configured to maintain separate flow channels within the nozzle (421) for liquid flow into and out of the housing; and a sealing structure disposed around an outer surface of the nozzle (421) and configured to prevent or contain leakage of the nozzle (421), wherein the flow-through element (420) provides a tube concentrically divided into channels throughout its entire length, the tube comprising: a central tube (436) having an outlet (426), the central tube (436) being integrally connected to a first end plate (434) of the filter cartridge, and an inlet tube having an inlet (424), the inlet tube being integrally connected to a second end plate (432) of the filter cartridge.

Description

Subject area

[0001] A liquid filter device is disclosed having a flow attachment element that localizes the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter within a separation structure of the flow attachment and on whose separation structure a sealing structure is arranged. background

[0002] Liquid filters are well known and used in a variety of systems that require the filtration of a working fluid. After use and wear, the filter elements of many liquid filters must be serviced and / or replaced, and many liquid filters must be removed specifically for service and / or replacement. For this reason, ease and cleanliness of maintenance are a concern in the development of liquid filters. Avoiding leaks, or at least limiting them, has presented challenges in the sealing structure of such liquid filters. In a Fig. In the example shown, a typical spin-on filter 900 includes a metallic flange nut 914, which normally serves to allow unfiltered liquid to flow into the opening 922. The unfiltered liquid is filtered through a filter material 910, and the filtered liquid flows out of the opening 920. Such filters generally require a large seal 916 around the outer edge of the housing 912 and between the housing 912 and the flange nut 914. An additional seal 918 is also required around the mounting stud and between the mounting stud and the flange nut.

[0003] DE 600 22 534 T2 discloses a filter assembly comprising a substantially recyclable filter cartridge in a pressurized container. DE 37 89 714 T2 and US 4 877 521 A disclose filter devices comprising a head intended to be permanently installed in a liquid dispensing machine and disposable canisters therefor. US 5 653 871 A discloses a liquid filter head configured to receive a filter cartridge closure element, wherein the closure element has at least one sealing element. US 6 488 845 B1 discloses an oil filter assembly comprising a filter housing and a drain valve for regulating oil outflow from a filter chamber in the filter housing. DE 698 15 279 T2 discloses an encapsulated filter cartridge assembly adapted and configured for receipt in an elongated cartridge housing of a filter system.

[0004] Although the current designs are useful, improvements and modifications are still possible in the design of liquid filters. Summary

[0005] The following technical disclosure serves to describe an improved liquid filter. The liquid filter described herein comprises a housing with a filter material contained therein. A flow attachment element is configured to convey the liquid to be filtered to the filter material and to convey the liquid filtered by the filter material out of the liquid filter. The flow attachment element comprises a structure configured to localize the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter. The flow attachment element further comprises a sealing structure to substantially prevent or at least limit leakage.

[0006] Some advantages of such a liquid filter include enabling cleaner maintenance because the flow into and out of the liquid filter is localized within the flow-through attachment. As a result, a filter can be provided that is more environmentally friendly and convenient for customers and users. The liquid filter described herein can also largely prevent leakage or at least confine it to a localized area and away from the housing edges because the flow-through attachment is provided with a sealing structure. This eliminates additional external and internal seals, providing a liquid filter that is relatively inexpensive and reliable and comprises fewer parts. The flow-through attachment can also eliminate the need for an annular nut, as found in many liquid filters, including spin-on liquid filters.The flow-through attachment can provide a unique head and filter interface that could enable OEMs to do better business in the aftermarket.

[0007] A flow-through add-on element can also provide the advantage of pre-filling a fluid filter in the unfiltered containment area, such as the "dirty side." Conventional fuel filters, for example, are pre-filled in the clean side (or "clean side") prior to installation. In such flow configurations, the pre-filled fluid is already on the clean side and can enter the fuel system first. Such pre-filling can be disadvantageous in newer common rail high-pressure fuel injection systems that require fine particulate filtration. The flow-through add-on element disclosed herein can utilize a flow diversion concept through the flow-through add-on element, effectively diverting pre-filled fluid through the filter material before it can enter the fuel system.That is, the flow-through attachment disclosed herein provides a pre-filtering function of the pre-filled liquid before the liquid can enter or exit the liquid filter.

[0008] In one embodiment, a liquid filter comprises a housing and a filter material disposed within the housing. An end plate is disposed at the other end of the filter material. The filter material is configured to allow liquid to be filtered through the filter material from side to side. A flow attachment element is disposed at an end opposite the end with the end plate. The flow attachment element is configured to communicate the liquid to be filtered to the filter material and to communicate the liquid filtered by the filter material out of the liquid filter. The flow attachment element is configured to localize the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter within a partition structure of the flow attachment. The flow attachment element includes a sealing structure disposed on an outer surface of the partition structure.

[0009] In one embodiment, the housing is generally open at one end and closed at the opposite end. The open end is configured to receive the filter material and is connected to the flow-through attachment in a fluid-tight seal. The flow-through attachment is connected to the filter material in a fluid-tight seal to maintain a separate fluid flow.

[0010] In one embodiment, the flow-through attachment element's separation structure is located generally near a central region on the liquid filter and generally remote from an outer edge of the housing. In another embodiment, the flow-through attachment element is a nozzle in which the separation structure is located. The nozzle extends away from the filter material and outward from the open end of the housing. In one embodiment, the nozzle is located generally in the central region of the open end, where liquid flow into and out of the liquid filter is concentrated near the center point.

[0011] In another embodiment, the flow-through add-on element is a separate adapter structure that can also be connected to the head of an existing liquid filter. For example, the flow-through add-on element can be used as an adapter for use with conventional spin-on filters. Such a flow-through add-on element would connect to the separate flow openings of the flange nut of an existing filter and would seal them. More specifically, the flow-through add-on element would direct unfiltered and filtered liquid through its separation structure. In such a configuration, the liquid flow can be redirected by the flow-through add-on element while still allowing normal flow within a standard filter (e.g., spin-on filter).

[0012] In one embodiment, the sealing structure on the separating structure comprises at least one sealing element arranged axially on the outside of the separating structure. In one example, the sealing element is an O-ring. In another embodiment, the sealing structure comprises a plurality of sealing elements, which may be O-rings. In some examples, the sealing structure may comprise, among other things, one of two elastic O-rings, a combination of an elastic O-ring and a face seal with a flat sealing element, or two face seals, each with a flat sealing element.

[0013] In yet another embodiment, the liquid filter is completely replaceable. Short description of the drawings In Fig. a side view of an embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is the final view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the liquid filter from line 3-3 in Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the liquid filter from line 4-4 in Fig. shown. In Fig. a side view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is the final view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the liquid filter from line 7-7 in Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the liquid filter from line 8-8 in Fig. shown. In Fig. is another sectional view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown in the embodiment of a flow-through configuration. In Fig. is a partial sectional view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown. In Fig. a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is another sectional view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown in the embodiment of a flow-through configuration. In Fig. a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid filter. In Fig. a sectional view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. a side view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is the side view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown in the embodiment of a mounting head connected to the liquid filter. In Fig. is a sectional view of the liquid filter and mounting head from Fig. shown. In Fig. is a perspective view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown. In Fig. a side view of another embodiment of a liquid filter is shown. In Fig. is a perspective view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown. In Fig. is a sectional view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown in the embodiment of a mounting head connected to the liquid filter. In Fig. is another side section view of the liquid filter from Fig. shown in a further embodiment of a fastening head connected to the liquid filter. In Fig. A sectional view of a known liquid filter is shown. In Fig. a perspective view of an embodiment of a flow add-on element is shown. In Fig. is a side view of the flow add-on element of Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the flow add-on element of Fig. shown. In Fig. is a perspective view of the flow add-on element of Fig. shown. In Fig. is a side sectional view of the flow add-on element of Fig. shown. Detailed description

[0014] The liquid filter described herein generally provides a flow structure that is localized and sealed. For example, the liquid filter described herein includes a flow attachment configured to convey the liquid to be filtered by a filter material into the liquid filter and to convey the liquid filtered by the filter material out of the liquid filter. The flow attachment is configured to localize the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter within a separation structure of the flow attachment. The flow attachment further includes a sealing structure located on the outer surface of the flow attachment structure.The liquid filter described herein enables cleaner maintenance of the liquid filter and can provide a pre-filtration function because the flow into and out of the liquid filter is localized within a specific flow path created by the flow-through attachment. The liquid filter described herein can also largely prevent leakage or at least restrict it to a localized area away from the edges of the housing because the sealing structure seals the localized flow within the flow-through attachment.

[0015] It should be noted that the "fluid to be filtered" can be any working fluid that needs to be filtered in a process or system, such as fuel, oil, coolant, and the like. A fluid filter as described herein can also be useful in a variety of filtration systems, including oil and lubricant filtration and fuel filtration systems. The described fluid filter is particularly useful in fuel and lubricant filtration systems, to name just a few examples.

[0016] In Fig. - Fig. 1, an embodiment of a liquid filter 10 is shown. The liquid filter 10 includes a housing 12. The housing 12 is generally a cylindrical container or bowl. The housing 12 has one end with a plurality of support members 16. The support members 16 extend from the housing 12 and are radially disposed near and around the end. In one embodiment, the support members 16 generally resemble rib-like members. The housing 12 also includes an external mounting device 14 disposed near an end opposite the end at which the support members 16 are disposed. The external mounting device 14 may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples.It should be noted that the support members 16 and the external fastening device 14 are not limited to the specific structure shown and may be modified with various structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0017] A flow attachment element 20 is arranged at an end opposite the support elements 16. The flow attachment element 20 is connected to the housing 12 distal to the external attachment device 14. In one embodiment, the flow attachment element 20 resembles a lid, cap, or cover-like structure with a nozzle 21 that projects distally outwardly relative to the end of the housing 12. The nozzle 21 includes an inlet 24 to allow the liquid to be filtered to enter the housing 12 and have access to a flow path to the filter material 30. See arrows in Fig. . The nozzle 21 also includes an outlet 26 so that the liquid filtered through the filter material 30 can exit the housing 12. See arrows in Fig. . As shown, the inlet 24 and the outlet 26 are enclosed within the nozzle 21 of the flow attachment 20, where a separation structure or flow separator 25 keeps the flow through the inlet 24 and the outlet 26 separate from each other.

[0018] Grooves 22 are arranged in a circle on the outside of the nozzle 21. As shown, grooves 22 are arranged in a circle around the nozzle 21. In one embodiment, the grooves 22 are configured as part of the sealing structure, which may include sealing elements (not shown here, but in the embodiments in Fig. - Fig. shown). The sealing elements may be various structures, such as, but not limited to, resilient O-ring seals. It should be noted that the sealing structure may be constructed in various ways by one skilled in the art and may include examples such as, but not limited to, the described O-ring seals, various flat gasket configurations, and interference fit seals. As shown, the grooves 22 provide a sealing structure such as a double O-ring seal. It should be noted that one O-ring seal or more than two O-ring seals may be employed as desired and / or required. It should further be noted that O-ring seals may either not be used or may be used in combination with other sealing structures, such as, but not limited to, flat gaskets or interference fit seals.

[0019] As with other liquid filters described herein, the nozzle 21 is configured to form a unique interface between the filter element and a filter head. Such a unique interface would have a radially liquid-tight seal at the nozzle 21 where flow into and out of the liquid filter 10 is located through the flow paths of the flow attachment element 20, which are accessible through the inlet 24 and the outlet 26 and enclosed within the nozzle 21. As shown, the nozzle 21 is located near or substantially in a central region and generally located at the open end of the housing 12. The nozzle 21 is located away from the edges of the outer walls of the housing 12. As one example, the nozzle 21 is disposed substantially about a longitudinally centered axis of the entire liquid filter 10.

[0020] The housing 12 and the flow attachment 20 are fluid-tightly connected to each other at their outer walls. In one embodiment, the housing 12 and the flow attachment 20 are connected via a spin-welded configuration. As shown, the housing 12 includes the handles 18, and the flow attachment 20 includes the handles 28. In one example, the handles 18, 28 are used to connect the housing 12 and the flow attachment 20 through a spin-welding process. The handles 18 are disposed around an outer surface of the housing 12, and the handles 28 are disposed around an outer surface of the flow attachment 20 and radially outward from the nozzle 21. In one embodiment, the handles 18, 28 generally resemble sawtooth handles. It should be noted that the handles are not limited to the specific structure depicted and may be modified as appropriate and necessary.It should also be noted that the housing 12 and the flow attachment 20 may be joined by a different method than spin welding, as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved between the housing 12 and the flow attachment 20.

[0021] Regarding the filter material 30, the filter material 30 is disposed within the housing 12. The filter material 30 is connected to an end plate 32 located near the end where the support elements 16 are located. The filter material 30 is configured for connection to the flow attachment element 20 in a fluid-tight seal through another end plate 34. The filter material 30 is connected to another end plate 34. As shown, the filter material 30 is disposed between the end plates 32, 34. The end plate 34 is disposed at an opposite end from the end plate 32, where the end plate 34 can sealingly engage the flow attachment element 20 in a fluid-tight seal.

[0022] In one embodiment, the flow attachment 20 and the end plate 34 are connected by a press fit. As one example, the flow separator 25 includes an outer annular surface that sealingly engages an annular surface and the shoulder of the end plate 34. In such a configuration, the filter material 30 is connected to the flow attachment 20 by a sealing engagement between the end plate 34 and the flow separator 25. In one embodiment, the filter material 30, the end plates 32, 34, and a central tube 36 (described in more detail below) together provide a cartridge assembly that is connected to the flow attachment 20 in a fluid-tight seal. It should be noted that the engagement between the end plate 34 and the flow attachment 20 is not limited to the specific structure depicted or to a press fit.Various configurations may be used to attach the filter material 30 to the flow attachment element 20 as desired and / or required, as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved.

[0023] The filter material 30 may be constructed in various configurations, such as spiral wound, pleated, insert molded, stacked discs, flow-through construction, a combination of these configurations, or the like. As shown in Fig. As shown, the filter material 30 has a pleated configuration with pleats 31. It should be noted that the material used to construct the filter material 30 is not limited as long as the filter material 30 provides the desired filtration effect for the particular application.

[0024] In Fig. and Fig. Liquid flowing through the liquid filter 10 enters the inlet 24 (see Fig. ) from the outlet 26 (see Fig. ). As described, the nozzle 21 contains the inlet 24 and the outlet 26, where a flow separator 25 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 10 (best in the embodiment in Fig. and Fig. for the flow separator 125).

[0025] Liquid enters the housing 12 through the inlet 24 and flows to an outer side of the filter material 30 and into a space between the filter material 30 and the inner wall of the housing 12. The liquid can then be filtered through the filter material 30 to its inner side. A central tube 36 is disposed within the filter material 30. In one example, the central tube 36 cooperates with the filter material 30 in a concentric configuration wherein the liquid filtered by the filter material 30 can enter the central tube 36 through a plurality of openings 37 and exit the outlet 26. See arrows in the housing 12, filter material 30, and central tube 36. As with the filter material 30, the central tube 36 is disposed between the end plates 32, 34 and can provide further structural support for the filter material 30.

[0026] The flow configuration in Fig. - Fig. first provides a generally radial fluid flow, with the fluid entering inlet 24 being directed radially outward to a position between the filter material 30 and the housing 12. As described, the flow attachment element 20, its nozzle 21, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing fluid flow located away from the edges of the housing. In such a configuration, an external seal, such as is often used in spin-on filters between the flange nut and the housing, can be eliminated. In such designs, the flange nut can also be eliminated. See, for example, Fig. .

[0027] In Fig. - Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 100 is shown. The liquid filter 100 is similar to the liquid filter 10, except that the liquid filter 100 has an external mounting device 114 disposed on an outer cylindrical surface of the flow attachment element 120 instead of on the housing 112.

[0028] The housing 112 is generally a cylindrical container or shell and includes one end with a plurality of support elements 116. The support elements 116 protrude from the housing 112 and are radially disposed near and around the end. In one embodiment, the support elements 116 generally resemble rib-like members. The housing 112 also includes an external fastening device 114 disposed near an end opposite the end at which the support elements 116 are disposed. The external fastening device 114 may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the support elements 116 and the external fastening device 114 are not limited to the Fig. - Fig. are limited to a specifically depicted structure and can be modified with different structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0029] A flow attachment element 120 is disposed at an end opposite the support elements 116. The flow attachment element 120 is connected to the housing 112 distal to the external attachment device 114. In one embodiment, the flow attachment element 120 resembles a lid, cap, or cover-like structure with a nozzle 121 that projects distally outwardly relative to the open end of the housing 112. The nozzle 121 includes an inlet 124 so that the liquid to be filtered can enter the housing 112 and have access to a flow path to the filter media 130. See arrows in Fig. . The nozzle 121 also includes an outlet 126 so that the liquid filtered through the filter material 130 can exit the housing 112. See arrows in Fig. . As shown, the inlet 124 and the outlet 126 are enclosed within the nozzle 121 of the flow attachment 120, with a separating structure or flow separator 125 keeping the flow through the inlet 124 and the outlet 126 separate from each other.

[0030] Grooves 122 are arranged in a circle on the outside of the nozzle 121. As shown, grooves 122 are arranged in a circle around the nozzle 121. In one embodiment, the grooves 122 are configured as part of the sealing structure, which may include sealing elements (not shown here, but in the embodiments in Fig. - Fig. shown). The sealing elements may be various structures, such as, but not limited to, resilient O-ring seals. It should be noted that the sealing structure may be constructed in a variety of ways by one skilled in the art. Some examples include, but are not limited to, the described O-ring seals, various flat gasket configurations, and interference-fit type structures. As shown, the grooves 122 provide a sealing structure that is a double O-ring seal. It should be noted that one O-ring seal or more than two O-ring seals may be employed as desired and / or required. It should be noted that O-ring seals may either not be used or may be used in combination with other sealing structures, such as, but not limited to, flat gaskets or interference-fit seals.

[0031] As with other liquid filters described herein, the nozzle 121 is configured to form a unique interface between the filter element and a filter head. Such a unique interface would have a radially fluid-tight seal at the nozzle 121 where flow into and out of the liquid filter 100 is located through the flow paths of the flow attachment element 120, which are accessible through the inlet 124 and the outlet 126 and enclosed within the nozzle 121. As shown, the nozzle 121 is located near or substantially in a central region and generally located at the open end of the housing 112. The nozzle 121 is located away from the edges of the outer walls of the housing 112. As one example, the nozzle 121 is disposed substantially about a longitudinally centered axis of the liquid filter 100.

[0032] The housing 112 and the flow attachment 120 are fluid-tightly connected to each other at their outer walls. In one embodiment, the housing 112 and the flow attachment 120 are connected via a spin-welded configuration. As shown, the housing 112 includes handles 118, and the flow attachment 120 includes handles 128. In one example, the handles 118, 128 are used to connect the housing 112 and the flow attachment 120 through a spin-welding process. The handles 118 are disposed around an outer surface of the housing 112, and the handles 128 are disposed around an outer surface of the flow attachment 120 and radially outward from the nozzle 121. In one embodiment, the handles 118, 128 generally resemble sawtooth handles. It should be noted that the handles are not limited to the specific structure shown and can be modified according to suitability and need.It should also be noted that the housing 112 and the flow attachment 120 may not be joined by spin welding, but by another method as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved between the housing 112 and the flow attachment 120.

[0033] Regarding the filter material 130, the filter material 130 is disposed within the housing 112. The filter material 130 is connected to an end plate 132 located near the end where the support elements 116 are located. The filter material 130 is configured for connection to the flow attachment element 120 in a fluid-tight seal through another end plate 134. The filter material 130 is connected to another end plate 134. As shown, the filter material 130 is disposed between the end plates 132, 134. The end plate 134 is disposed at an opposite end from the end plate 132, where the end plate 134 can sealingly engage the flow attachment element 120 in a fluid-tight seal.

[0034] In one embodiment, the flow attachment 120 and the end plate 134 are connected by an interference fit. As one example, the flow separator 125 includes an outer annular surface that sealingly engages an annular surface and the shoulder of the end plate 134. In such a configuration, the filter material 130 is connected to the flow attachment 120 by a sealing engagement between the end plate 134 and the flow separator 125. In one embodiment, the filter material 130, the end plates 132, 134, and a central tube 136 (described in more detail below) together provide a cartridge assembly that is connected to the flow attachment 120 in a fluid-tight seal.It should be noted that the engagement between the end plate 134 and the flow attachment 120 is not limited to the specific structure depicted or to a press fit, and other configurations may be used to secure the filter material 130 to the flow attachment 120 as desired and / or required, as long as a fluid-tight seal is achieved. To name just a few examples, the fluid-tight seal between the filter material and the flow attachment 120 may be achieved by a dual-cast seal, an enclosed seal between two mating components, or as an insert-molded seal.

[0035] The filter material 130 may be constructed in various configurations, such as spiral wound, pleated, insert molded, stacked discs, flow-through, a combination of these configurations, or the like. As shown in Fig. and Fig. As shown, the filter material 130 has a pleated configuration with pleats 131. It should be noted that the material used to construct the filter material 130 is not limited as long as the filter material 130 provides the desired filtration effect for the particular application.

[0036] In Fig. and Fig. Liquid flowing through the liquid filter 100 enters the inlet 124 (see Fig. ) in and out of the outlet 126 (see Fig. ). As described, the nozzle 121 contains the inlet 124 and the outlet 126, where a flow separator 125 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 100 (best in Fig. and Fig. shown).

[0037] Liquid enters the housing 112 through the inlet 124 and flows to an outer side of the filter material 130 and to a space between the filter material 130 and the inner wall of the housing 112. The liquid can then be filtered through the filter material 130 to its inner side. A central tube 136 is disposed within the filter material 130. In one example, the central tube 136 cooperates with the filter material 130 in a concentric configuration where the liquid filtered by the filter material 130 can enter the central tube 136 through a plurality of openings 137 and exit the outlet 126. See arrows in the housing 112, filter material 130 and central tube 136. As with the filter material 130, the central tube 136 is disposed between the end plates 132, 134 and can provide further structural support for the filter material 130.

[0038] The flow configuration in Fig. - Fig. first provides a generally radial fluid flow, with the fluid being directed radially outward to a position between the filter material 130 and the housing 112. As described, the flow attachment element 120, its nozzle 121, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing. In such a configuration, an external seal, such as is often used in spin-on filters between the flange nut and the housing, can be eliminated. In such designs, the flange nut can also be eliminated if desired and / or necessary. See Fig. .

[0039] In Fig. the entire flow path of the liquid through the liquid filter 100 is shown in more detail. In Fig. The structure of the flow-through attachment element 120, including the flow separator 125, is shown in more detail. The flow separator 125 includes an opening 124a where the inlet 124 allows liquid to enter the interior of the housing 112 and flow to the filter material 130. The flow separator 125 also includes an opening 126a where the filtered liquid can flow into the outlet 126 and exit the filter material 130 and central tube 136. It should be noted that the liquid filter 10 can include the same flow configuration and openings as in Fig. and Fig. shown.

[0040] As in Fig. Also shown, a groove 119 may be disposed on an outer surface of the housing 119 and proximate the external fastener 114. In one embodiment, the groove 119 may, if desired, be designated as a location for locating an external sealing element. It should be noted that the groove 119 may not be required given the flow structure of the nozzle 121 and its external sealing structure for the housing 112. However, as an example, the groove 119 may be a square-cut groove that may, if desired, accommodate an O-ring seal or other flat sealing element.

[0041] In Fig. - Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 200 is shown. The liquid filter includes a flow attachment element 220 generally configured with adjacent flow passages within a nozzle 221, with one flow passage directing the liquid to be filtered through an inlet 224 to a filter material 230 and the other flow passage allowing the liquid to exit the liquid filter 200 through an outlet 226.

[0042] Similar to the other described liquid filters, the liquid filter 200 includes a housing 212. The housing 212 is generally a cylindrical container or bowl. The entire outer surface of the housing 212 is not shown so that the interior of the liquid filter 200 can be better viewed. It should be noted that the remainder of the outer surface of the housing is consistent with the illustrated outer surface. The housing 212 includes one end having a plurality of support members 216. The support members 216 extend from the housing 212 and are radially disposed near and around the end. In one embodiment, the support members 216 generally resemble rib-like members. The housing 212 also includes an external attachment device 214 disposed near an end opposite the end at which the support members 216 are disposed.The external fastening device 214 may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the support elements 216 and the external fastening device 214 are not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. Fig. - Fig. are limited to a specifically depicted structure and can be modified with different structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0043] A flow attachment element 220 is connected to the housing and disposed near the end opposite the support elements 216. In one embodiment, the flow attachment element 220 includes a flow separator 225 having a nozzle 221 connected to a plate element. In one example, the nozzle 221 extends through the plate element. The nozzle 221 projects outwardly and distally from one end of the filter material 230. In one example, the nozzle 221 extends beyond the open end of the housing 212.

[0044] The nozzle 221 includes an inlet 224 so that the liquid to be filtered can enter the housing 212 and have access to a flow path to the filter material 230. See arrows in Fig. The nozzle 221 also includes an outlet 226 so that the fluid filtered by the filter material 230 can exit the housing 212 along a flow path from the filter material 130. As shown, the inlet 224 and the outlet 226 are enclosed within the nozzle 221 of the flow attachment element 220, with the flow separator 225 keeping the flow through the inlet 224 and the outlet 226 separate.

[0045] Grooves 222 are arranged in a circle on the outside of the nozzle 221. As shown, grooves 222 are arranged in a circle around the nozzle 221. In one embodiment, the grooves 222 are configured as part of a sealing structure that may include the sealing elements 222a. The sealing elements 222a may be various structures, such as, but are not limited to, elastic O-ring seals. It should be noted that the sealing structure may be constructed in a variety of ways by one skilled in the art. Some examples include, but are not limited to, the described O-ring seals, various flat gasket configurations, and press-fit structures. As shown, the grooves 222 provide a sealing structure such as a double O-ring seal. It should be noted that one O-ring seal or more than two O-ring seals may be employed as desired and / or required.It should be noted that O-ring seals can either not be used or can be used in combination with other sealing structures, such as flat gaskets or interference fit gaskets.

[0046] As with other liquid filters described herein, the nozzle 221 is configured to form a unique interface between the filter element and a filter head. Such a unique interface would have a radially liquid-tight seal at the nozzle 221, with flow into and out of the liquid filter 200 being localized through the flow paths of the flow attachment element 220, which are accessible through the inlet 224 and the outlet 226 and enclosed within the nozzle 221. As shown, the nozzle 221 is located near or substantially in a central region and generally located at the open end of the housing 212. The nozzle 221 is located away from the edges of the outer walls of the housing 212. As one example, the nozzle 221 is substantially centrally located about a longitudinally centered axis of the liquid filter 200.

[0047] The flow attachment element 220 is connected to an inner side of a wall of the housing 212 in a fluid-tight seal through the plate structure connected to the flow separator 225. In one embodiment, the housing 212 and the flow attachment element 220 are connected via a spin-welded configuration. It should be noted that the connection between the flow attachment element 220 and the housing 212 can be modified as appropriate and / or required, as long as a fluid-tight seal is achieved between the housing 212 and the flow attachment element 220.

[0048] A trough region 215 is created when the flow add-on element 220 is connected to the housing 212. In one example, the trough region 215 is configured where the plate element of the flow add-on element 220 is positioned slightly inward from the open end of the housing 212. Such a configuration may serve to further contain leakage.

[0049] Regarding the filter material 230, the filter material 230 is disposed within the housing 212. The filter material 230 is connected to an end plate 232, which is located near the end where the support elements 216 are located. The filter material 230 is configured for connection to the flow attachment element 220 in a liquid-tight seal. The filter material 230 is connected to another end plate 234. As shown, the filter material 230 is disposed between the end plates 232, 234. The end plate 234 is disposed at an opposite end from the end plate 232, wherein the end plate 234 can sealingly engage the flow attachment element 220 in a liquid-tight seal.

[0050] In one embodiment, the flow attachment 220 and the end plate 234 are connected by a press fit. As one example, the flow separator 225 includes an outer annular surface that sealingly engages an annular surface and the shoulder of the end plate 234. In such a configuration, the filter material 230 is connected to the flow attachment 220 by a sealing engagement between the end plate 234 and the flow separator 225. In one embodiment, the filter material 230, the end plates 232, 234, and a central tube 236 (described in more detail below) together provide a cartridge assembly that is connected to the flow attachment 220 in a fluid-tight seal. It should be noted that the engagement between the end plate 234 and the flow attachment 220 is not limited to the specific structure depicted or to a press fit.Various configurations may be used to attach the filter material 230 to the flow attachment element 220 as desired and / or required, as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved.

[0051] The filter material 230 may be constructed in various configurations, such as spiral wound, pleated, insert molded, stacked discs, flow-through construction, a combination of these configurations, or the like. As shown in Fig. and Fig. As shown, the filter material 230 has a pleated configuration. It should be noted that the material used to construct the filter material 230 is not limited, as long as the filter material 230 provides the desired filtration efficiency for the particular application.

[0052] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 200 enters through the inlet 224 and exits through the outlet 226. As described, the nozzle 221 includes both the inlet 224 and the outlet 226, where a flow separator 225 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 200.

[0053] Liquid enters the housing 212 through the inlet 224 and flows to an outer side of the filter material 230 and into a space between the filter material 230 and the inner wall of the housing 212. The liquid can then be filtered through the filter material 230 to its inner side. A central tube 236 is disposed within the filter material 230. In one example, the central tube 236 cooperates with the filter material 230 in a concentric configuration where the liquid filtered by the filter material 230 can enter the central tube 236 through a plurality of openings 237 and exit the outlet 226. See arrows in the housing 212, filter material 230 and central tube 236. As with the filter material 230, the central tube 236 is disposed between the end plates 232, 234 and can provide further structural support for the filter material 130.As shown in one example, the end plate 234 includes the central tube 236 as an integral part of the end plate 234.

[0054] The Fig. The flow configuration shown generally provides for dual-tube flow, where the fluid is first directed through inlet 224 and flow passage to the filter material and then through outlet 226 and flow passage from the central tube 236 and filter material 230. As described, the flow attachment element 220, its nozzle 221, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing. In such a configuration, an external seal, as is often used in spin-on filters between the flange nut and the housing, can be eliminated. In such designs, the flange nut can also be eliminated. See Fig. .

[0055] In Fig. The entire flow path is shown, where the flow separator 225 includes an opening 224a where the liquid can penetrate through the inlet 224 into the interior of the housing 212 and flow to the filter material 230. The flow separator 225 also includes an opening 226a where the filtered liquid can flow into the outlet 226 and exit the filter material 230 and central tube 236.

[0056] As in Fig. Also shown, a groove 219 may be disposed on an outer surface of the housing 219 and proximate the external fastener. In one embodiment, the groove 219 may be designated as a location for locating an external sealing element. It should be noted that the groove 219 may not be required given the structure of the nozzle 221 and its sealing structure for the housing 212. However, as an example, the groove 219 may be a square-cut groove that can accommodate an O-ring seal or other flat sealing element.

[0057] In Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 300 is shown. The liquid filter 300 includes some similar features to the liquid filter 200, which are not further described. The liquid filter 300 includes a flow attachment element 320 generally configured with adjacent flow passages within a nozzle 321. The flow configuration through the nozzle 321 generally resembles a pipe divided into channels throughout its length.

[0058] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 300 enters through the inlet 324 and exits through the outlet 326. The nozzle 321 contains both the inlet 324 and the outlet 326, where a flow separator 325 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 300. The liquid filter 300 also includes a sealing structure arranged similarly to the liquid filter 200.

[0059] The liquid enters the housing through the inlet 324 of the nozzle and flows through a central tube 336 of the nozzle on the inlet side. The liquid flows to a space between the end plate 332, which is connected to the filter material 330, and an inner wall of the housing. The liquid can be filtered through the filter material 330 to its inner side and to the central tube 336. As shown, the central tube 336 is part of a nozzle 321 and is disposed within the filter material 330. The central tube 336 cooperates with the filter material 330, where a plurality of openings 337 allow the liquid filtered by the filter material 330 to enter the central tube 336 on the outlet side and flow out the outlet 326. See arrows in the housing, filter material 330, and central tube 336.As shown in one example, the flow attachment 320 includes an end plate 334 and the central tube 336 as an integral part of the flow attachment 320.

[0060] The Fig. The flow configuration shown generally provides a tube divided into channels throughout its entire length. As described, the flow attachment element 320, its nozzle 321, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing.

[0061] In Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 400 is shown. The liquid filter 400 includes some similar features to the liquid filter 200, which are not further described. The liquid filter 400 includes a flow attachment element 420 generally configured with adjacent flow passages within a nozzle 421. The flow configuration through the nozzle 421 generally resembles a tube concentrically divided into channels throughout its length.

[0062] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 400 enters through the inlet 424 and exits through the outlet 426. The nozzle 421 contains both the inlet 424 and the outlet 426, where a flow separator 425 maintains separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 400. The liquid filter 400 also includes a relatively similar sealing structure to the liquid filter 200. As illustrated, the sealing structure may be a double O-ring seal, with one seal disposed on a tube having the inlet 424 and the other seal disposed on a tube having the outlet 426.

[0063] The liquid enters the housing through the inlet 424 of the nozzle and flows through a central tube 436 of the nozzle 421 through the inlet tube. The liquid flows to a space between the end plate 432, which is connected to the filter material 430, and an inner wall of the housing. The liquid can be filtered through the filter material 430 to its inner side and back to the central tube 436. As shown, the central tube 436 is part of the nozzle 421 and is disposed within the filter material 430. The central tube 436 cooperates with the filter material 430, where a plurality of openings 437 allow the liquid filtered by the filter material 430 to enter the central tube 436 on the outlet side. The liquid can then exit from the outlet 436. See arrows in the housing, filter material 430 and central tube 436.As shown in one example, the flow attachment 420 includes an end plate 434 and the central tube 436 as an integral part of the flow attachment 420. The flow attachment 420 includes the end plate 432 and the tube with the inlet 424 as an integral structure. In such a configuration, the flow attachment 420 may be part of a filter cartridge structure.

[0064] The Fig. The flow configuration shown generally provides a tube concentrically divided into channels throughout its length. As described, the flow attachment element 420, its nozzle 421, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing.

[0065] In Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 500 is shown. The liquid filter 500 includes some similar features to the liquid filter 200, which are not further described. The liquid filter 500 includes a flow attachment element 520 generally configured with adjacent flow passages through a nozzle 521. The flow configuration through the nozzle 521 generally resembles concentrically channeled tubing with a double end plate.

[0066] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 500 enters through the inlet 524 and exits through the outlet 526. The nozzle 521 contains both the inlet 524 and the outlet 526, where a flow separator 525 maintains separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 500. The liquid filter 500 also includes a sealing structure arranged similarly to that of the liquid filter 200. As shown, the sealing structure may be a double O-ring seal, with one seal arranged on a tube having the inlet 524 and the other seal arranged on a tube having the outlet 526.

[0067] Liquid enters the housing through the inlet 524 of the nozzle and through the inlet tube. The liquid is then directed through the flow separator 525 between an outer plate member and the end plate 534 (or a dual end plate structure). The outer plate member is sealingly connected to the housing. The liquid flows to a space between a filter material 530 and an inner wall of the housing. The liquid can be filtered through the filter material 530 to its inner side and a central tube 536. As shown, the central tube 536 is part of the nozzle 521 and is disposed within the filter material 530. The central tube 536 cooperates with the filter material 530, where a plurality of openings 537 allow the liquid filtered by the filter material 530 to enter the central tube 536 and flow through the outlet tube. The liquid can then exit from the outlet 526.See arrows in nozzle 521, housing, filter material 530, and central tube 536. As shown in one example, the flow attachment element 520 includes the outer plate element, the end plate 534, and the central tube 536 as an integral part of the flow attachment element 520.

[0068] The Fig. The flow configuration shown generally provides a concentrically channeled tube with a double end plate. As described, the flow attachment element 520, its nozzle 521, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing.

[0069] In Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 600 is shown. The liquid filter 600 includes some similar features to the liquid filter 200, which are not further described. The liquid filter 600 includes a flow attachment element 620 generally configured with adjacent flow passages through a nozzle 621. The flow configuration through the nozzle 621 generally resembles a double endplate with split flow.

[0070] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 600 enters through the inlet 624 and exits through the outlet 626. The port 621 contains both the inlet 624 and the outlet 626, where a flow separator 625 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 600. The liquid filter 600 also includes a similar sealing structure as in the liquid filter 200, where the sealing structure may be a double O-ring seal.

[0071] The liquid enters the housing through the inlet 624 of the nozzle 621. The liquid is then directed by the flow separator 625 through a flow passage and openings 624a. A double end plate structure 634a, 634b allows liquid to flow through a first filter material 630. The top of the outer end plate 634a is sealingly connected to the housing. The liquid can then flow to a space between the first filter material 630 and an inner wall of the housing. The liquid can flow or fall down to an end plate 632, where it can then be filtered by a second filter material 631. After the liquid is filtered to an inner side of the second filter material 631, it flows through openings 637 of the central tube 636. The opening 626a allows the liquid to flow through the outflow passage and through outlet 626.See drops and arrows in the nozzle 621, housing, first and second filter materials 630, 631, and central tube 636. As shown in one example, the flow attachment element 620 includes the double end plate 634a, 634b as an integral part of the flow attachment element 620.

[0072] The Fig. The flow configuration shown generally provides a dual endplate with split flow through the liquid filter and certain portions of the filter material. As described, the flow attachment element 620, its nozzle 621, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing. The split flow configuration and dual endplate can enable two-way filtration, incorporating different filter materials. For example, one of the first and second filter materials could be configured for fuel filtration, while the other first or second filter material could be configured for water filtration.

[0073] In Fig. - Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 700 is shown. The liquid filter 700 is similar to the liquid filter 100 in that the liquid filter 700 includes an external mounting device 714 disposed on an outer cylindrical surface of the flow attachment element 720. Similar components and parts are briefly mentioned as follows.

[0074] The housing 712 is generally a cylindrical container or shell and includes one end with a plurality of support members 716. The support members 716 extend from the housing 712 and are radially disposed near and around the end. In one embodiment, the support members 716 generally resemble rib-like members. The external fastening device 714 is disposed near an end opposite the support members 716. The external fastening device 714 may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the support members 716 and the external fastening device 714 are not limited to the specific structure depicted and may be modified with various structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0075] The flow attachment element 720 is disposed at an end opposite the support elements 716 and generally at an open end of the housing 712. The flow attachment element 720 is connected to the housing 712. In one embodiment, the flow attachment element 720 resembles a lid, cap, or cover-like structure with a nozzle 721 that projects distally outwardly relative to the end of the housing 712. The nozzle 721 includes an inlet 724 so that the liquid to be filtered can enter the housing 712 and have access to a flow path to the filter material 730. See arrows in Fig. The nozzle 721 also includes an outlet 726 so that the fluid filtered by the filter material 730 can exit the housing 712. As shown, the inlet 724 and the outlet 726 are enclosed within the nozzle 721 of the flow attachment element 720, with a flow separator 725 keeping the flow through the inlet 724 and the outlet 726 separate.

[0076] Fig. and Fig. also show an embodiment of a filter head 750 for connecting the liquid filter 700 to a fluid system. The internal fastening device 751 is attached to an inner surface of the filter head 750 and is used for connection to an external fastening device 714 on the liquid filter 700. The external fastening device 751 can be designed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the internal fastening device is not limited as long as it can be connected to the external fastening device 714 of the liquid filter 700 to connect the liquid filter 700 to the filter head 750.

[0077] The filter head 750 includes an opening 752 for access to the inlet 724 of the liquid filter 700. The filter head 750 also includes an opening 754 for access to the outlet 726. The annular surfaces 756, 758 are disposed on inner surfaces of the filter head. The annular surfaces 756, 758 engage a sealing structure, which will be described in more detail later.

[0078] A groove 722 is disposed around an outer surface of the nozzle 721. As shown, the groove 722 is disposed around the nozzle 721 near the end and between the inlet 724 and the end of the nozzle 721. In one embodiment, the groove 722 is configured as part of a sealing structure that may include a sealing element 722a. As shown, the sealing element 722a is, as one example, a resilient O-ring seal.

[0079] Unlike the double O-ring structure of the liquid filter 100, the sealing structure of the liquid filter 700 includes an O-ring seal near the end of the nozzle 721 and a flange or face seal 722b disposed between the O-ring seal and the end of the housing 712. The flange or face seal element 722b may be a sealing element, such as a resilient square flat gasket, disposed around the nozzle 721 and between the inlet 724 and the external mounting device 714. The face seal 722b is disposed on an outer annular shoulder of the nozzle 721. It should be noted that the sealing element 722a and the sealing element 722b may be interchangeable as desired and / or required. Example: The sealing element 722b (or face seal) and the annular shoulder may be located where the groove 722 and the sealing element 722a (or O-ring) are located.Likewise, the groove 722 and the sealing element 722a may be arranged where the sealing element 722b and the annular shoulder are arranged.

[0080] Returning to the annular surfaces 756, 758 of the filter head, these annular surfaces 756, 758 engage the sealing elements 722a and 722b, respectively. The annular surfaces and the sealing elements, respectively, engage in a fluid-tight seal to maintain separate flow paths of the inlet 724 and the outlet 726 when the liquid filter 700 is connected to the filter head 750.

[0081] It should be noted that the configuration of the sealing structure can be designed in various ways by one skilled in the art. For example, the sealing element can be constructed from various configurations, including, among others, a double O-ring seal as in liquid filter 100, an O-ring seal and a face seal as in liquid filter 700, or two face seals (not shown). It should also be noted that the O-rings and face seals could also be omitted at all, e.g., if an interference fit between the nozzle and the filter head can be achieved with sufficient sealing.

[0082] As with other liquid filters described herein, the nozzle 721 is configured to form a unique interface between the filter element and a filter head. Such a unique interface would have a radially liquid-tight seal at the nozzle 721 where flow into and out of the liquid filter 700 is located through the flow paths of the flow attachment element 720, which are accessible through the inlet 724 and the outlet 726 and enclosed within the nozzle 721. As shown, the nozzle 721 is located near or substantially in a central region and generally located at the open end of the housing 712. The nozzle 721 is located away from the edges of the outer walls of the housing 712. As one example, the nozzle 721 is disposed substantially about a longitudinally centered axis of the liquid filter 700.

[0083] The housing 712 and the flow attachment 720 are fluid-tightly connected to each other at their outer walls. In one embodiment, the housing 712 and the flow attachment 720 are connected via a spin-welded configuration. As shown, the housing 712 includes handles 718, and the flow attachment 720 includes handles 728. In one example, the handles 718, 728 are used to connect the housing 712 and the flow attachment 720 through a spin-welding process. The handles 718 are disposed around an outer surface of the housing 712, and the handles 728 are disposed around an outer surface of the flow attachment 720 and radially outward from the nozzle 721. In one embodiment, the handles 718, 728 generally resemble sawtooth handles. It should be noted that the handles are not limited to the specific structure shown and can be modified according to suitability and need.It should also be noted that the housing 712 and the flow attachment 720 may be joined by a different method than spin welding, as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved between the housing 712 and the flow attachment 720.

[0084] Similar to liquid filter 100, the filter material 730 is disposed within the housing 712. The filter material 730 is connected to an end plate 732 located near the end where the support members 716 are located. The filter material 730 is configured for connection to the flow attachment element 720 in a fluid-tight seal. The filter material 730 is connected to another end plate 734. As shown, the filter material 730 is disposed between the end plates 732, 734. The end plate 734 is disposed at an opposite end from the end plate 732, where the end plate 734 can sealingly engage the flow attachment element 720 in a fluid-tight seal.

[0085] In one embodiment, the flow attachment 720 and the end plate 734 are connected by an interference fit. As one example, the flow separator 725 includes an outer annular surface that sealingly engages an annular surface and the shoulder of the end plate 734. In such a configuration, the filter material 730 is connected to the flow attachment 720 by a sealing engagement between the end plate 734 and the flow separator 725. In one embodiment, the filter material 730, the end plates 732, 734, and a central tube 736 (described in more detail below) together provide a cartridge assembly that is connected to the flow attachment 720 in a fluid-tight seal.It should be noted that the engagement between the end plate 734 and the flow attachment 720 is not limited to the specific structure depicted or to a press fit, and that other configurations may be used to secure the filter material 730 to the flow attachment 720 as desired and / or required, as long as a fluid-tight seal is achieved.

[0086] As with the previously described filter material, the filter material 730 can be constructed in various configurations, such as spiral wound, pleated, insert molded, stacked discs, flow-through construction, a combination of these configurations, or the like. As shown in Fig. As shown, the filter material 730 has a pleated configuration with pleats 731. It should be noted that the material used to construct the filter material 730 is not limited as long as the filter material 730 provides the desired filtration effect for the particular application.

[0087] In Fig. The liquid flowing through the liquid filter 700 enters through the inlet 724 and exits through the outlet 726. The nozzle 721 contains both the inlet 724 and the outlet 726, where a flow separator 725 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 700. While the flow path of the liquid in Fig. not fully shown, it should be noted that the liquid filter 700 uses a similar flow path construction as in Fig. and Fig. for liquid filter 100, except that the flow path is reversed. That is, inlet 724 and outlet 726 are reversed, so that the liquid to be filtered enters the side of nozzle 721 and the filtered liquid exits the end of nozzle 721. In such a configuration, liquid filter 700 can be used like a normal spin-on liquid filter, where the filtered liquid exits the center and top of the liquid filter. The liquid filter can further be adapted for use in existing fuel and oil filtration systems using conventional spin-on liquid filters.

[0088] As in Fig. As shown, the liquid enters the housing 712 from the inlet 724 and flows to an outer side of the filter material 730 and to a space between the filter material 730 and the inner wall of the housing 712. The liquid can then be filtered through the filter material 730 to its inner side. A central tube 736 is disposed within the filter material 730. In one example, the central tube 736 cooperates with the filter material 730 in a concentric configuration where the liquid filtered by the filter material 730 can enter the central tube 736 through a plurality of openings 737 and exit the outlet 726. As with the filter material 730, the central tube 736 is disposed between the end plates 732, 734 and can provide further structural support for the filter material 730.

[0089] The flow configuration in Fig. - Fig. provides a generally radial fluid flow, with the fluid being directed radially outward to a position between the filter material 730 and the housing 712. As described, the flow attachment element 720, its nozzle 721, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing. In such a configuration, an external seal, such as is often used in spin-on filters between the flange nut and the housing, can be eliminated. In such designs, the flange nut can also be eliminated. See Fig. .

[0090] In Fig. - Fig. Another embodiment of a liquid filter 800 is shown. The liquid filter 800 is similar to the liquid filter 100, except that the liquid filter 800 includes an external mounting device 814 disposed on an outer cylindrical surface of the flow attachment element 820. Similar components and parts are briefly mentioned as follows.

[0091] The liquid filter 800 includes a housing 812. The housing 812 is generally a cylindrical container or bowl. The housing 812 includes one end with a plurality of support members 816. The support members 816 extend from the housing 812 and are radially disposed near and around the end. In one embodiment, the support members 816 generally resemble rib-like members. The external fastening device 814 is disposed near an end opposite the support members 816. The external fastening device 814 may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the support members 816 and the external fastening device 814 are not limited to the specific structure depicted and may be modified with various structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0092] The flow attachment element 820 is disposed at an end opposite the support elements 816 and connected to the housing 812. In one embodiment, the flow attachment element 820 resembles a lid, cap, or cover-like structure with a nozzle 821 that projects distally outward relative to the end of the housing 812. The nozzle 821 includes an inlet 824 so that the liquid to be filtered can enter the housing 812 and have access to a flow path to the filter media 830. See arrows in Fig. . The nozzle 821 also includes an outlet 826 so that the liquid filtered by the filter material 830 can exit the housing 812. See Fig. As shown, the inlet 824 and the outlet 826 are enclosed within the nozzle 821 of the flow attachment 820, with a separating structure or flow separator 825 keeping the flow through the inlet 824 and the outlet 826 separate from each other.

[0093] In Fig. Also shown is an embodiment of a filter head 850 for connecting the liquid filter 800 to a fluid system. The internal fastening device 851 is attached to an inner surface of the filter head 850 and is used to connect to an external fastening device 814 on the liquid filter 800. The internal fastening device 851 can be designed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like, to name a few examples. It should be noted that the internal fastening device 851 is not limited as long as it can be connected to the external fastening device 814 of the liquid filter 800 to connect the liquid filter 800 to the filter head 850.

[0094] The filter head 850 includes an opening 852 for access to the inlet 824 of the liquid filter 800. The filter head 850 also includes an opening 854 for access to the outlet 826. The inlet line 852a is connected to the opening 852 and the outlet opening 854a is connected to the opening 854 to facilitate the supply and discharge of liquid to the liquid filter 800. In a Fig. In the embodiment shown, the inlet conduit 852a and the outlet conduit 854a are constructed with fittings that fit into the openings 852 and 854, respectively.

[0095] The filter head 850 further includes annular surfaces 856, 858 disposed on the inner surfaces of the filter head. The annular surfaces 856, 858 engage a sealing structure, which will be described in more detail later.

[0096] A groove is disposed around an outer surface of the nozzle 821. As shown, the groove is disposed around the nozzle 821 near the end and between the inlet 824 and the end of the nozzle 812. In one embodiment, the groove is configured as part of a sealing structure that may include a sealing element 822a. As shown, the sealing element 822a is, as one example, a resilient O-ring seal.

[0097] Unlike the double O-ring structure of the liquid filter 100, the sealing structure of the liquid filter 800 includes an O-ring seal near the end of the nozzle 821 and a flange or face seal 822b disposed between the O-ring seal and the end of the housing 812. This means that the sealing structure configuration is similar to that of the liquid filter 700 in Fig. - Fig. The flange or face seal element 822b may be a sealing element, such as a resilient square flat gasket, disposed around the nozzle 821 and between the inlet 824 and the external fastener 814. The face seal 822b is disposed on an outer annular shoulder of the nozzle 821. It should be noted that the sealing element 822a and the sealing element 822b may be interchangeable as desired and / or necessary. For example, the sealing element 822b (or face seal) and the annular shoulder may be disposed where the groove 822 and the sealing element 822a (or O-ring) are disposed. Likewise, the groove 822 and the sealing element 822a may be disposed where the sealing element 822b and the annular shoulder are disposed.

[0098] Returning to the annular surfaces 856, 858 of the filter head, these annular surfaces 856, 858 engage the sealing elements 822a and 822b, respectively. The annular surfaces and the sealing elements each engage a fluid-tight seal to maintain separate flow paths of the inlet 824 and the outlet 826 when the liquid filter 800 is connected to the filter head 850.

[0099] It should be noted that the configuration of the sealing structure can be designed in various ways by one skilled in the art. For example, the sealing element can be constructed from various configurations, including, among others, a double O-ring seal as in the liquid filter 100, or an O-ring seal and a face seal as in the liquid filters 700, 800, or two face seals (not shown). It should also be noted that the O-rings and face seals could also be omitted at all, e.g., if an interference fit between the nozzle and the filter head can be achieved with sufficient sealing.

[0100] As with the other liquid filters described herein, the nozzle 821 is configured to form a unique interface between the filter element and a filter head. Such a unique interface would have a radially liquid-tight seal at the nozzle 821 where flow into and out of the liquid filter 800 is located through the flow paths of the flow attachment element 820, which are accessible through the inlet 824 and the outlet 826 and enclosed within the nozzle 821. As shown, the nozzle 821 is located near or substantially in a central region and is generally located at the open end of the housing 812. The nozzle 821 is located away from the edges of the outer walls of the housing 812. As one example, the nozzle 821 is disposed substantially about a longitudinally centered axis of the liquid filter 800.

[0101] The housing 812 and the flow attachment 820 are fluid-tightly connected to each other at their outer walls. In one embodiment, the housing 812 and the flow attachment 820 are connected via a spin-welded configuration. As shown, the housing 812 includes handles 818, and the flow attachment 820 includes handles 828. In one example, the handles 818, 828 are used to connect the housing 812 and the flow attachment 820 through a spin-welding process. The handles 818 are disposed around an outer surface of the housing 812, and the handles 828 are disposed around an outer surface of the flow attachment 820 and radially outward from the nozzle 821. In one embodiment, the handles 818, 828 generally resemble sawtooth handles. It should be noted that the handles are not limited to the specific structure shown and can be modified according to suitability and need.It should also be noted that the housing 812 and the flow attachment 820 may be joined by a different method than spin welding, as long as a liquid-tight seal is achieved between the housing 812 and the flow attachment 820.

[0102] As with the other liquid filters described, the filter material 830 is disposed within the housing 812. The filter material 830 is connected to an end plate 832 located near the end where the support members 816 are located. The filter material 830 is configured for connection to the flow attachment element 820 in a liquid-tight seal through another end plate 834. The filter material 830 is connected to another end plate 834. As shown, the filter material 830 is disposed between the end plates 832, 834. The end plate 834 is disposed at an opposite end from the end plate 832, where the end plate 834 can sealingly engage the flow attachment element 820 in a liquid-tight seal.

[0103] In one embodiment, the flow attachment 820 and the end plate 834 are connected by an interference fit. As one example, the flow separator 825 includes an outer annular surface that sealingly engages an annular surface and the shoulder of the end plate 834. In such a configuration, the filter material 830 is connected to the flow attachment 820 by a sealing engagement between the end plate 834 and the flow separator 825. In one embodiment, the filter material 830, the end plates 832, 834, and a central tube 836 (described in more detail below) together provide a cartridge assembly that is connected to the flow attachment 820 in a fluid-tight seal.It should be noted that the engagement between the end plate 834 and the flow attachment 820 is not limited to the specific structure shown or to a press fit, and that other configurations may be used to secure the filter material 830 to the flow attachment 820 as desired and / or required, as long as a fluid-tight seal is achieved.

[0104] As with the previously described filter material, the filter material 830 can be constructed in various configurations, such as spiral wound, pleated, insert molded, stacked discs, flow-through construction, a combination of these configurations, or the like. As shown in Fig. As shown, the filter material 830 has a pleated configuration with pleats 831. It should be noted that the material used to construct the filter material 830 is not limited as long as the filter material 830 provides the desired filtration effect for the particular application.

[0105] In Fig. and Fig. Liquid flowing through the liquid filter 800 enters inlet 824 and exits through outlet 826. The nozzle 821 contains both the inlet 824 and the outlet 826, where a flow separator 825 maintains a separate flow into and out of the liquid filter 800. While the flow path of the liquid in Fig. not fully illustrated, it should be noted that the liquid filter 800 uses a similar flow path construction as in Fig. and Fig. for liquid filter 100. See also the flow direction in Fig. This means that the liquid to be filtered enters at the top of the nozzle 821 and the filtered liquid exits through the side of the nozzle 821.

[0106] Liquid enters the housing 812 through the inlet 824 and flows to an outer side of the filter material 830 and into a space between the filter material 830 and the inner wall of the housing 812. The liquid can then be filtered through the filter material 830 to its inner side. A central tube 836 is disposed within the filter material 830. In one example, the central tube 836 cooperates with the filter material 830 in a concentric configuration where the liquid filtered by the filter material 830 can enter the central tube 836 through a plurality of openings 837 and exit the outlet 826. As with the filter material 830, the central tube 836 is disposed between the end plates 832, 834 and can provide further structural support for the filter material 830.

[0107] In Fig. Another embodiment of the filter head 860 is shown. The filter head can be adapted for connection to a liquid filter, such as the liquid filter 800. The filter head 860 also includes an internal mounting device 861, similar to the internal mounting device 851. The openings 862, 864 communicate with the inlet 824 and outlet 826, respectively. Unlike the openings 852, 854, the openings 862, 864 include ends with internal threads. As an example, the internal threads are adapted for threaded connection to filtration system lines. The filter head also includes annular surfaces 866, 868 that engage the sealing structure of the liquid filter (i.e., the sealing elements 822a, 822b) and are similar to the annular surfaces 856, 858.

[0108] The flow configuration in Fig. - Fig. first provides a generally radial fluid flow, with the fluid being directed radially outward to a position between the filter material 830 and the housing 812. As described, the flow attachment element 820, its nozzle 821, and the sealing structure provide separate incoming and outgoing flow located away from the edges of the housing. In such a configuration, an external seal, such as is often used in spin-on filters between the flange nut and the housing, can be eliminated. In such designs, the flange nut can also be eliminated. The flow configuration provided by the flow attachment element 820 still enables a pre-filtration function via a standard spin-on fluid filter.This means that when the fluid filter 800 is prefilled through the center of the nozzle or inlet 824, the fluid is filled on the unfiltered or "dirty side" of the fluid filter 800. Thus, the fluid must be prefiltered before it can exit the fluid filter 800. Such a configuration differs from conventional spin-on filters, where the fluid is prefilled through the center, which is the exit or "clean side," and where the prefilled fluid can exit the fluid filter immediately instead of being filtered first.

[0109] To Fig. Returning to the foregoing, it should be noted that the inventive concepts of the liquid filters described herein can be retroactively used with existing liquid filter housings and including features such as, among others, the described flow-through attachment and the described sealing configurations. For example, by eliminating at least the flange nut 914, many of the described flow-through attachments can be used in such known spin-on filters. Furthermore, the central tube can also be modified to accommodate one of the described flow-through attachments, or, if necessary, it can be replaced entirely.

[0110] In another embodiment, the flow-through attachment element may be configured as a separate adapter structure that can also be connected to the head of an existing liquid filter. As an example, the flow-through attachment element may be configured as an adapter for use with conventional spin-on filters, as shown in Fig. shown, and without removing the existing flange nut. Such a flow-through element would connect to and seal the separate flow openings of the flange nut of an existing filter. More specifically, the flow-through element would direct unfiltered and filtered fluid through its separation structure. In such a configuration, the flow-through element can divert fluid flow while still allowing normal flow within a standard filter (e.g., spin-on filter).

[0111] In Fig. - Fig. Another embodiment of a flow-through attachment 1020 is shown. The flow-through attachment 1020 includes similar flow channel and sealing structural features as the flow-through attachments described above. It should be noted that many of the inventive principles of the flow-through attachments described above can be incorporated into the flow-through attachment 1020 as appropriate.

[0112] The flow attachment element 1020 includes a nozzle 1021 having an inlet 1024 and an outlet 1026. The inlet 1024 and the outlet 1026 are disposed on the nozzle 1021, with the nozzle 1021 including a separation structure 1025 to maintain separate incoming and outgoing flow through the flow attachment element 1020. Like the other described flow attachment elements, the flow attachment element 1020 localizes the incoming and outgoing flow within the nozzle 1021, for example, when the flow attachment element is connected to a liquid filter such as a conventional spin-on filter. A groove 1022 is disposed near the outlet 1026. The groove 1022 may contain an O-ring or flat gasket (not shown) and provides the necessary sealing structure to facilitate localization of fluid flow and enjoys the same sealing structure advantages as the flow add-ons described above.

[0113] The flow-through attachment element 1020 includes external fastening devices 1014, 1014a. The external fastening devices 1014 are useful for attaching the flow-through attachment element 1020 to a component 1030 of a filtration system or to a liquid filter (e.g., the spin-on filter of Fig. ). As in Fig. and Fig. As shown, the external attachment device 1014 can be connected to the component 1030 of a filtration system, and the external attachment device 1014a is available for connection to a liquid filter. As just one example, the external attachment device 1014 can be connected to the opening 920 of the spin-on filter 900 of Fig.In such a configuration, outlet 1026 communicates with opening 920 to allow liquid to exit the liquid filter 900, and inlet 1024 communicates with opening(s) 922 to allow liquid to enter the liquid filter 900 for filtration.

[0114] The external fastening devices 1014, 1014a may be constructed as a threaded configuration, bayonet, or the like. It should be noted that the external fastening elements 1014, 1014a are not limited to the specific structure depicted and may be modified with various structures as appropriate and / or necessary.

[0115] The described liquid filters can provide many advantages, such as cleaner maintenance, as the flow into and out of the liquid filter is localized within the flow-through element. As a result, a filter can be provided that is more environmentally friendly and more convenient for customers and users. The liquid filter described herein can also largely prevent any leakage or at least confine it to a localized area and away from the housing edges because the flow-through element is provided with a sealing structure. This eliminates additional external and internal seals, providing a liquid filter that is relatively inexpensive and reliable and comprises fewer parts.The flow-through attachment can eliminate the need for an annular flange, as used in many liquid filters and typically employed in spin-on liquid filters, thereby significantly reducing the cost associated with the filter and allowing the device to be constructed primarily from non-metallic components. The housing itself can also be constructed from metal or plastic and feature an embedded or press-fit cartridge filter media. The filter media pack can be a unit attached to the housing by spin welding, ultrasonic bonding, adhesive bonding, etc. Furthermore, variations in filter media construction can be considered, where two different types of filter media could be used for fuel / water separation.The flow-through add-on element can provide a unique head and filter interface that could enable OEMs to do better business in the aftermarket.

[0116] Specifically, the described filters can be manufactured as a fully replaceable, cast plastic filter without the inclusion of an anchor nut. Furthermore, the flow attachment element can be cast or molded as a single component (as opposed to multiple parts to create separate flow channels). The inlet and outlet flow is generally directed through the central portion of the filter housing. The protrusion of the channels can be used to actuate a fluid-lock valve within the filter head during maintenance. The aforementioned filters can allow the filter to radially seal against the inlet and outlet of the filter head while maintaining a leak-free environment. As mentioned, leakage during removal can be confined to the flow attachment structure, and fluid seeping around the filter can be essentially eliminated.

[0117] Additionally, the need for an external seal can be eliminated because the fluid flow can be localized, creating a unique encapsulated filtration environment. As a result, the traditional external O-ring seal and square flat gasket can be eliminated in favor of a simplified nozzle closure configuration. The ability to create a unique mounting method is significantly increased by containing fluid flow within the sealed portion of the filter.

[0118] The separate but enclosed flow design can be incorporated into an existing user-friendly filter product architecture to utilize the material cartridges and shell design and be manufactured on the same assembly line.

[0119] Furthermore, the flow-through add-on element can provide the benefit of a pre-filled fluid filter in the unfiltered containment region, such as the "dirty side." The flow-through add-on element disclosed herein utilizes a flow-diversion concept through the flow-through add-on element, effectively diverting pre-filled fluid through the filtration material before it can enter the fuel system. This means that the flow-through add-on element described herein can enable a pre-filtration function of the pre-filled fluid before the fluid can enter or exit the fluid filter. Such flow diversion can be particularly useful in newer common rail high-pressure injection systems that require fine particulate filtration.

[0120] The invention may be embodied in other forms without departing from its spirit or novel features. The embodiments disclosed in this application should be considered in all respects as illustrative, but not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated in the appended claims 1 to 18, rather than in the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalence of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.

[0121] Aspects of the invention: 1. A liquid filter device comprising: a housing having a filter cartridge contained therein containing a filter material; and a flow attachment member for transferring the liquid to be filtered to the filter material and for transferring the liquid filtered by the filter material out of the liquid filter; the flow attachment member includes a structure configured to localize liquid flow into and out of the liquid filter, and a sealing structure disposed around an outer surface of the liquid flow localization structure to substantially prevent or contain leakage from the liquid localization structure. 2. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the structure configured to localize liquid flow comprises a separation structure configured to maintain separate flow channels for liquid flow into and out of the housing. 3. The liquid filter device of aspect 2, wherein the separation structure is disposed generally near a central region of the liquid filter and generally away from the outer edge of the housing. 4. The liquid filter device of aspect 2, wherein the separation structure comprises a nozzle extending away from the filter material and housing and disposed generally in a central region of the liquid filter, with the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter being concentrated near the center. 5. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the flow attachment further comprises an inlet and outlet enclosed in the liquid flow localization structure; the inlet and outlet are configured to allow liquid to enter and exit the housing. 6. The liquid filter device of aspect 5, wherein the inlet and the outlet are configured with adjacent flow passages. 7. The liquid filter device of aspect 6, wherein the inlet and outlet have a common wall. 8. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the liquid flow localization structure comprises a channeled tube extending substantially between the ends of the filter material. 9. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the liquid flow localization structure comprises a concentrically channeled tube extending substantially between the ends of the filter material. 10. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the liquid flow localization structure comprises a concentrically channeled nozzle, a double end plate, and a central tube. 11. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the liquid flow localization structure comprises a double end plate defining a split flow through at least two separate sections of the filter material. 12. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the housing and the flow attachment form a trough. 13. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the housing and the flow-through attachment element are connected to each other in a liquid-tight manner. 14. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the flow-through attachment element and the filter cartridge are connected to each other in a liquid-tight manner. 15. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the sealing structure disposed on the liquid flow localization structure comprises at least one sealing element disposed around the outer surface of the separation structure. 16. The liquid filter device of aspect 15, wherein the sealing element is at least one elastic O-ring or a flange or flat gasket. 17. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the sealing structure comprises a double sealing element, wherein the sealing elements are selected from a single elastic O-ring and a single flange seal with a flat sealing element, double O-rings, or double flange seals each with an elastic flat sealing element, and wherein the sealing elements are arranged around the structure configured to localize the liquid flow and the sealing elements are arranged axially with respect to one another. 18. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the flow attachment is configured to allow the housing to be pre-filled in an unfiltered region of the device. 19. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the filter material comprises a plurality of filter materials. 20. The liquid filter device of aspect 1, wherein the liquid filter is fully disposable. 21. A flow attachment as an adapter for a liquid filter, comprising: a nozzle configured to transfer the liquid to be filtered to the liquid filter and to transfer liquid out of the liquid filter; the nozzle including a structure for localizing liquid flow into and out of the flow attachment; and a sealing structure disposed around an outer surface of the structure for localizing liquid flow to substantially prevent or contain leakage from the structure for localizing liquid. 22. The flow attachment of aspect 21, wherein the structure configured to localize fluid flow comprises a separation structure within the nozzle configured to maintain separate flow channels for fluid flow into and out of the nozzle. 23. The flow attachment of aspect 21, wherein the nozzle further comprises an inlet and an outlet, and where the inlet and outlet, respectively, are configured to allow fluid to flow into and out of the flow attachment. 24. The flow attachment of aspect 23, wherein the inlet and outlet are configured to have adjacent flow passages and a common wall. 25. The flow attachment of aspect 21, wherein the structure configured to localize fluid flow comprises a concentrically channeled nozzle. 26. The flow attachment of aspect 21, wherein the sealing structure comprises at least one sealing element disposed around the outer surface of the nozzle. 27. The flow-through accessory element of aspect 26, wherein the sealing element is at least one elastic O-ring or a flange seal with a flat sealing element.

Claims

[1] A liquid filter device (400) comprising: a housing having a filter cartridge contained therein, which in turn contains a filter material (430); and a flow-through attachment element (420) connected to the housing and configured to transfer the liquid to be filtered to the filter material (430) and to transfer the liquid filtered through the filter material (430) out of the liquid filter; wherein the flow-through additional element (420) comprises: a flow separator (425) configured to localize the flow of liquid into and out of the liquid filter, the flow separator (425) having a nozzle (421) connected to a plate member, the nozzle (421) extending outwardly and distally through the plate member and from one end of the filter material (430), and the flow separator (425) configured to maintain separate flow channels within the nozzle (421) for liquid flow into and out of the housing; and a sealing structure disposed around an outer surface of the nozzle (421) and configured to prevent or contain leakage of the nozzle (421), wherein the flow-through element (420) provides a tube concentrically divided into channels throughout its entire length, the tube comprising: a central tube (436) having an outlet (426), the central tube (436) being integrally connected to a first end plate (434) of the filter cartridge, and an inlet tube having an inlet (424), the inlet tube being integrally connected to a second end plate (432) of the filter cartridge. [2] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the nozzle (421) extends away from the filter material (430) and housing and is arranged in a central region of the liquid filter. [3] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the flow separator (425) further comprises an inlet (424) and outlet (426) enclosed in the nozzle (421), and wherein the inlet and outlet are configured to allow liquid to enter and exit the housing. [4] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 3, wherein the inlet (424) and the outlet (426) are configured to have adjacent flow passages, and wherein the inlet and outlet have a common wall. [5] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the housing and the flow-through attachment element (420) are connected to each other in a liquid-tight manner, and wherein the flow-through attachment element (420) and the filter cartridge are connected to each other in a liquid-tight manner. [6] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the sealing structure comprises at least one sealing element arranged around the outside of the nozzle (421). [7] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the sealing structure comprises a double sealing element, wherein the sealing elements are selected from a single elastic O-ring and a single flange seal with a flat sealing element, double O-rings or double flange seals each with an elastic flat sealing element, and wherein the sealing elements are arranged around the nozzle (421) and axially to each other. [8] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the flow-through attachment (420) is configured to allow the housing to be pre-filled in an unfiltered area of ​​the device. [9] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the filter material (430) comprises a plurality of filter materials. [10] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the plate member is an outer plate member sealingly connected to the housing, and wherein liquid is directed through the flow separator (425) between the outer plate member and an end plate (432) disposed at one end of the filter material (430). [11] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the outer plate member is an end plate (434) disposed at one end of the filter material (430). [12] The liquid filter device (400) of claim 1, wherein the flow attachment element (420) is an outer cap. [13] A flow-through attachment element (420) connected to the housing of a liquid filter device (400) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the flow-through attachment element (420) comprises: a flow separator (425) having a nozzle (421) connected to a plate member, the nozzle (421) extending outwardly and distally through the plate member and from an end of the filter material (430) located in the filter cartridge, the filter cartridge being located in the housing, the nozzle (421) including an inlet (424) and outlet (426) enclosed thereby, the nozzle (421) being configured to transfer liquid out of the filter and further to localize liquid flow into and out of the liquid filter device (400); and a sealing structure disposed around an outer surface of the nozzle (421) and configured to prevent or contain leakage of the nozzle (421). [14] The flow attachment element (420) of claim 13, wherein the inlet (424) and the outlet (426) are configured to have adjacent flow passages, and wherein the inlet and outlet have a common wall. [15] The flow attachment element (420) of claim 13, wherein the sealing structure comprises at least one sealing element arranged around the outside of the nozzle (421). [16] The flow attachment element (420) of claim 13, wherein the plate element is an outer plate element sealingly connected to the housing, and wherein liquid is directed through the flow separator (425) between the outer plate element and an end plate (432) disposed at one end of the filter material (430). [17] The flow attachment element (420) of claim 13, wherein the outer plate element is an end plate (434) attached to one end of the filter material (430). [18] The flow attachment element (420) of claim 13, wherein the flow attachment element (420) is an outer cap.

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