Component of a liquid filter for filtering liquids, and liquid filter

Abstract

The present invention relates to a component, configured for installation in a liquid filter (1) for filtering liquids with a housing (9), wherein the component (100) comprises a cover (32), a filter element (30) which has a filter medium (4) and a first end cap (2), wherein the first end cap (2) is disposed between the filter medium (4) and the cover (32), a latching arrangement (101) having a latching structure (110) and a mating latching structure (112), wherein the latching arrangement is disposed between the first end cap (2) and the cover (32), wherein there is a maximum first clearance (X) in the circumferential direction (U) between the latching structure (110) and the mating latching structure (112), wherein the latching structure (110) is disposed on the cover (32) and the mating latching structure (112) is disposed on the first end cap (2), and a stop (50) having a first stop structure (51) and a second stop structure (52), wherein the first stop structure (51) is disposed on the cover (32) and the second stop structure (52) is disposed on the first end cap (2), wherein there is a maximum second clearance (Y) in the circumferential direction (U) between the first stop structure (51) and the second stop structure (52), and wherein to protect the latching arrangement (101) the first clearance (X) is greater than the second clearance (Y), in particular greater by at least 10% and / or by at least 0.05mm.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] title

[0003] Component of a liquid filter for filtering liquids and liquid filter

[0004] State of the art

[0005] The present invention relates to a component adapted for mounting in a liquid filter for filtering liquids having a housing and a liquid filter.

[0006] Liquid filters designed to filter a liquid are known from the prior art. For example, these are liquid filters for filtering a urea solution, which are used in SCR systems (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for exhaust gas purification. Such liquid filters are also referred to as Denox filters, AdBlueO filters, or DEF filters (DEF = “Diesel Exhaust Fluid”). Dismantling a filter element of the liquid filter, e.g. for maintenance purposes, often requires several steps, which makes dismantling and reassembly very time-consuming and requires various tools. Correct installation of a new filter element can also be complicated and error-prone. Contamination of the filter medium can also occur during installation of a new filter element, particularly on the clean side, if a fitter inadvertently touches the filter medium with their fingers.

[0007] From DE 102017 011 278 A1 a liquid filter with a filter element and a volume compensation device is known.

[0008] Disclosure of the invention

[0009] The component according to the invention, designed for installation in a liquid filter, with the features of claim 1, has the advantage that simple installation of the component in the liquid filter is possible, and the component itself can be pre-assembled as a subassembly comprising several individual parts in a simple and reliable manner. This allows the component to be installed in the liquid filter as a pre-assembled subassembly. This reduces assembly errors during assembly. The component can also be easily removed from the liquid filter.

[0010] This is achieved according to the invention in that the component is designed for installation in a liquid filter for filtering liquids. The liquid filter has a housing. The component can in particular be installed in or into the housing of the liquid filter, e.g. by being pushed in and / or by means of a rotating movement or a screwing movement. The component comprises a cover and a filter element which has a filter medium, e.g. filter paper, melt-blown or the like, and a first end cap and in particular a second end cap. The first end cap is arranged between the filter medium and the cover. The cover and the filter element are preferably captively coupled to one another.

[0011] For the purposes of this application, the term "liquid filter" also refers to a so-called DNOX supply module or Denox supply module, where the component can be mounted, for example, in the DNOX supply module or its housing. The cover of the component is then, for example, a cover that seals off an interior space of the DNOX supply module in which the filter element can be inserted. For the sake of clarity, however, the term "liquid filter" is used exclusively below.

[0012] This captive coupling of the cover and the filter element and, in particular, also of a compensation element for compensating for volume changes of the liquid to be filtered, e.g. due to ice formation, is already present before the component is mounted on the housing of the liquid filter.

[0013] The component further comprises a latching arrangement with a latching structure and a counter-latching structure. The latching arrangement is arranged between the first end cap and the cover. Thus, in the latched state, the latching arrangement couples or connects the first end cap to the cover, in particular captively. Furthermore, a maximum first play X is present in the circumferential direction of the component between the latching structure and the counter-latching structure. The latching structure is arranged on the cover and the counter-latching structure is arranged on the first end cap. Furthermore, the component comprises a stop, which acts in particular at least in the circumferential direction U, with a first stop structure and a second stop structure. The first stop structure is arranged on the cover and the second stop structure is arranged on the first end cap. In this case, a maximum second play Y is present orTo protect the locking arrangement, the first clearance X is greater than the second clearance Y, in particular by at least 10% greater, preferably by at least 15% greater and / or by at least 0.05 mm, preferably by at least 0.1 mm greater.

[0014] This means that when the cover is mounted on the filter element, unwanted damage to the locking arrangement can be prevented by the smaller second play Y between the two stop structures. The stop structures can, for example, in particular absorb a torque and keep it away from the locking arrangement or reduce or limit the extent of the torque introduced into the locking arrangement. This means that the locking arrangement can be designed to be particularly simple, flexible and with a low wall thickness. This can therefore result in a separation of functions. The locking arrangement can, for example, absorb primarily axial forces that can occur between the cover and filter element or first end cap. The stop or the stop structures can, for example, absorb primarily forces or torques in the circumferential direction that can occur between the cover and filter element or first end cap.

[0015] The clearance Y between the first and second stop structures can, in principle, also be zero (0). In this case, the maximum clearance Y is also zero. This ensures that any rotation of the cover is transmitted directly to the filter element and does not affect the locking structure or counter-locking structure. However, for reasons of manufacturability and / or tool wear during production and / or other manufacturing tolerances of the cover and / or first end cap, the maximum clearance Y can also be greater than zero to prevent mechanical stresses between the first and second stop structures.

[0016] The play in the circumferential direction between the locking structure and the counter-locking structure is advantageously greater than zero, since otherwise the locking between the locking structure and the counter-locking structure can be difficult to achieve.

[0017] It is understood that the stop structures can also interact with each other in the axial direction and, for example, prevent the cover from being over-pressed toward the first end cap when the cover is coupled to the end cap. For this purpose, the first and second stop structures can be configured such that, upon a relative movement of the cover and the first end cap toward each other (e.g., along an axial direction), they come into mechanical contact or lock before the locking structure locks with the first end cap in the axial direction and / or before the counter-locking structure locks with the cover in the axial direction.

[0018] The component preferably comprises a second end cap, which is arranged on the side of the filter element or filter medium facing away from the cover. The filter medium of the filter element is arranged along an axial direction between the first and second end caps and preferably has a hollow interior. A compensation element, for example, can be arranged in the hollow interior.

[0019] Particularly when using a compensation element, the captive coupling of the cover and filter element end cap enables easy disassembly and assembly. If the compensation element is also part of the component, it is also automatically disassembled or assembled together with the other parts - in particular, it can be captively coupled to the cover and / or the filter element or its first and / or second end cap. In this case, an installer no longer needs to touch the filter element with their fingers or use a dedicated disassembly tool during disassembly and / or assembly, but can enable disassembly / assembly by touching the cover alone. The filter element and, if applicable, the compensation element are then removed simultaneously with the cover.Furthermore, the captive coupling of the cover and the filter element, which comprises the filter medium and the first end cap, also enables correct positioning of the filter element and preferably also of a compensation element without additional aids such as springs for pressing the filter element against the cover or the like. This allows for component savings and / or a simpler design of the housing of the liquid filter in which the component according to the invention is used.

[0020] The first end cap can have a first opening. The compensation element can be arranged, in particular, in the interior of the filter element. It can, for example, protrude at least partially into the interior through the first opening provided by way of example. Furthermore, it can, for example, be inserted into the interior through the first opening.

[0021] A radial direction R extends perpendicular to an axial direction A. A circumferential direction U encircles the axial direction A.

[0022] The term “comprehensive” is used synonymously with the term “exhibit” unless otherwise stated.

[0023] The subclaims show preferred developments of the invention.

[0024] The cover preferably has a collar on which the locking structure and / or the first stop structure is arranged. This results in a very compact and robust construction. Furthermore, the collar can protect the locking arrangement from loosening the locking connection in the locked state by preventing or impeding external influences on the locking structure and / or the counter-locking structure. Furthermore, the cover can be manufactured, for example, as an injection-molded component, whereby the locking structure and the first stop structure can be manufactured simultaneously with the cover.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first end cap has a groove in which the counter-locking structure and the second stop structure are arranged. As a result, the first end cap in particular can also be manufactured as an injection-molded component, wherein the groove, the counter-locking structure and the second stop structure can be manufactured simultaneously with the first end cap. The groove preferably serves to accommodate the collar of the cover, so that a very compact design is possible, particularly in the axial direction A. It can, for example, be provided that the collar is located further outwards relative to the counter-locking structure, viewed in the radial direction. In this way, the locking arrangement is or can be protected particularly easily against influences from the radial outside. The captive coupling of cover and filter element can therefore no longer be easily removed non-destructively or can only be removed non-destructively with great effort.

[0026] The collar of the cover preferably has a first and a second collar part. In the circumferential direction U, a first intermediate space and a second intermediate space divide the collar, thus forming the first and second collar parts. The collar parts are preferably of identical design. More preferably, the collar parts are arcuate, in particular with the same arc length. The side surfaces or ends of the collar bordering the first and / or second intermediate space can serve, for example, as a second stop structure. The collar makes these stop structures very stable.

[0027] Further preferably, the first stop structure comprises two pairs of tower-like stop elements, each pair of which terminates the first and second collar parts in the circumferential direction. The two pairs of tower-like stop elements are each configured to accommodate a second stop structure of the first end cap between them in the assembled state with the second clearance. Thus, tower-like stop elements are arranged in the circumferential direction on the first and second collar parts, which are in particular manufactured simultaneously with the collar parts, e.g., by injection molding.

[0028] If the first and second collar parts are arcuate, the first and second collar parts preferably have a maximum arc radius of 170°, in particular a maximum of 120°, more preferably a maximum of 100° and most preferably a maximum of 90°. It can be provided, for example, that the first stop structure on the first end cap is arcuate, in particular in the shape of a circular ring sector, or has such a cross-section. Such a first stop structure can, for example, cover a circumferential angle in the range from 10° to 90°, preferably in the range between 20° and 80° and particularly preferably in the range from 30° to 70°, e.g. 30° or 45° or 60°.

[0029] This creates a particularly stable stop that is suitable for absorbing large torques without damage, in particular torques that can occur, for example, when the component is rotated in the housing during assembly or disassembly of the component into or out of the housing, in particular when a sealing element, for example an O-ring or the like, is arranged between the component and the housing.

[0030] Furthermore, this advantageously facilitates correct assembly of the component, in particular the cover on the filter element, since the first stop structure and the second stop structure must mechanically engage with each other. This prevents errors during assembly of the component.

[0031] The component further preferably comprises an axial stop with an axial stop structure arranged on the cover for a stop in the axial direction A of the cover with the first end cap. When the first end cap is mounted on the cover, the axial stop structure can come into contact with the first end cap, in particular with the second stop structure on the first end cap, in such a way that a minimum axial distance Z is defined between the cover and the first end cap. This prevents damage to the two components when the cover is mounted on the first end cap. If an axial displacement between the cover and the first end cap would result in the minimum axial distance Z being undershot, the axial stop comes into contact, for example with the first end cap, for example with the second stop structure or with another part of the first end cap, so that further approach of the cover to the first end cap is prevented.

[0032] This can, for example, reduce axial loading on the locking assembly during assembly and / or operation. Due to the secured minimum axial distance Z, the locking assembly does not come into mechanical axial contact with the first end cap, in particular, a first distal and / or free end of the counter-locking structure does not come into contact with the first end cap or the locking structure does not come into contact with the cover. This prevents damage to the locking assembly.

[0033] Furthermore, it can be advantageously prevented that an excessive axial displacement of the cover towards the first end cap causes a counter-locking structure, e.g. designed as a locking tab, with a radially outer end of a locking window to come into undesired contact with the locking structure, which is e.g. designed as a locking lug, and as a result the counter-locking structure comes out of engagement with the locking structure.

[0034] Furthermore, ensuring a minimum axial distance Z can advantageously prevent loading of an optional compensation element, e.g., by a nozzle or collar of the first end cap. If the minimum axial distance Z is exceeded, a radial section of the compensation element, which is clamped or held axially between the cover and the first end cap, could be subjected to excessive axial loading and, in extreme cases, could be punctured, plastically deformed, or crushed.

[0035] The stop structure on the cover is preferably arranged in the circumferential direction U at the first and second intermediate spaces between the first stop structure or between its distal ends, or between the first collar part and the second collar part. As a result, the stop structure is cleverly integrated into the cover without taking up additional installation space in the axial direction.

[0036] The locking structure on the cover preferably has a protruding nose or locking nose or a locking projection, and the counter-locking structure has a complementarily designed recess on the first end cap. It should be noted that the protruding nose can also be provided on the first end cap and the complementarily designed recess on the cover. With a large number of locking structures, it is also conceivable for the nose and recess to be arranged alternately on the cover and the first end cap. The nose or locking nose or the locking projection preferably points radially inwards. It can be arranged, for example, on an inward-facing wall of the collar. This advantageously makes it more difficult to release the locking connection, so that the cover and the filter element are permanently connected to one another in a captive manner.According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the component further comprises a compensation element arranged inside the filter element. The cover, the filter element, and the compensation element are preferably captively coupled to one another, particularly prior to installation of the component in the liquid filter. As a result, the compensation element is also part of the component assembly, further simplifying disassembly and / or assembly of the component on or in the liquid filter or on or in its housing.

[0037] The compensation element can, for example, be made of an elastic material or comprise an elastic material, e.g., a plastic or rubber. It can be designed to be elastically reversible. It can have a hollow interior. In other exemplary embodiments, it or its interior can be filled, for example, with a material, in particular one that is elastically reversibly compressible. It can, for example, be designed to absorb or compensate for a volume change of liquid in the liquid filter, e.g., due to temperature, at least partially by compression, so that the filter element and / or the liquid filter is relieved of mechanical pressure by an increasing volume of the liquid (e.g., during the transition from water to ice). It can, for example, comprise a compression body extending in the axial direction. It can, for example,have a radial section extending in the radial direction, which adjoins the compression body.

[0038] Particularly preferably, the compensation element is connected to the end cap by means of a snap-in connection or a clip connection. It can be snapped into the first end cap.

[0039] This allows for secure fastening of the compensation element as well as redundant fastening of the compensation element to the component.

[0040] At least one locking device, e.g., at least one locking lug, can be arranged on the compression body extending in the axial direction. This can, for example, be designed to extend continuously around the compression body. However, exactly one or more locking lugs spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction can also be arranged on the compression body.

[0041] The radial section can, for example, be designed in the manner of a mushroom cap at a distal end of the compression body. The radial section can be provided with an opening through which a hollow interior of the compression body is accessible.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, the compensation element can be clamped at a radial section of the compensation element between the cover and the first end cap in the axial direction A of the component, in particular between the cover and an (end cap) collar in the axial direction of the component. The radial section can, for example, protrude from a central body of the compensation element, in particular from a distal end of the central body, in the radial direction, in particular transversely to an extension direction of the central body. The central body can, for example, extend in the axial direction; it can, for example, have a hollow interior.

[0043] The (end cap) collar can be designed as a nozzle or a channel. It can, for example, surround, delimit, or define a through opening in the first end cap.

[0044] This allows for secure fastening of the compensation element as well as redundant fastening of the compensation element to the component.

[0045] The snap-in connection for fixing the compensation element to the end cap preferably comprises a snap-in lug. The snap-in lug can be provided all the way around the compensation element or, alternatively, can be formed only in sections. This allows the compensation element to be mounted easily, safely and reliably in or on the filter element or to be coupled with it. It can, for example, be snapped into a through-opening of the first end cap. Such a snap-in connection or clip connection or snapping into the through-opening can, for example, be additionally secured by an insert in the through-opening, whereby the compensation element is clamped or held clamped or secured in the radial direction between the first end cap and the insert element. Sealing can also be improved as a result. Such an insert element can, for example, be

[0046] Cap element can be realized, which is described in more detail below.

[0047] The locking structure and the counter-locking structure of the locking arrangement can interact with each other, for example, like a clip connection. The locking arrangement, comprising the locking structure and the counter-locking structure, can be designed, for example, such that a locking hook, a locking projection, or a locking lug is provided on the cover as the locking structure. An undercut, a recess, or a window is preferably arranged on the first end cap as the counter-locking structure, so that the locking hook, the locking projection, or the locking lug is locked in the undercut, the recess, or the window.

[0048] The lid is preferably made of a rigid plastic material, e.g., PA66, PA6, PPA, or PBT, or the like. The first end cap is preferably made of polypropylene.

[0049] The first and second intermediate spaces, which are each present between the tower-like stop elements, preferably have an arc angle of at least 25°, preferably at least 30°, in the circumferential direction. This results in a very stable structure, so that even relatively high torques can be absorbed, which can occur, for example, when screwing the component into the housing of the liquid filter.

[0050] Further preferably, the tower-like stop elements also have an extension in the radial direction R that extends beyond a radial extension of the first and second collar parts. In particular, the tower-like stop elements extend inwardly and / or outwardly beyond the first and second collar parts in the radial direction R. The collar sections adjoining the tower-like stop elements further support the tower-like stop elements in the circumferential direction.

[0051] Thus, the invention can protect the locking arrangement from damage that could occur, for example, when screwing the component into the liquid filter. Possible torques are absorbed by the first and second stop structures and prevent damage to the locking arrangement. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a liquid filter with a housing and a component according to the invention. The component comprises, in particular, a cover and a filter element with a first end cap, a filter medium, and preferably a second end cap. It can, for example, further comprise a compensation element or a volume equalization element.

[0052] The housing of the liquid filter has, in particular, an inlet and an outlet. The housing and the above-described component are preferably detachably connected to one another, e.g., by means of a screw connection. The liquid filter according to the invention is easy to maintain and inexpensive to manufacture, and has a particularly low risk of contamination. Furthermore, incorrect assembly (e.g., forgetting the filter element or the compensation element, or incorrectly installing one of the elements in the housing) of a liquid filter (e.g., dismantled for maintenance purposes) is practically impossible. Further advantages emerge from the above description.

[0053] The liquid filter for which the component is designed for assembly may have a heater or a heating element which is / are arranged, for example, on and / or in the housing.

[0054] Short description of the drawings

[0055] A preferred embodiment of the invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawing:

[0056] Figure 1 is a schematic longitudinal section through a component for a

[0057] Liquid filter according to a preferred embodiment of the invention from a first perspective in exploded view,

[0058] Figure 2 is a schematic longitudinal section of the component of Figure 1 from a second perspective in an exploded view, Figure 3 is a schematic longitudinal section of the component of Figure 1 from a further perspective in an exploded view,

[0059] Figure 4 is a further schematic longitudinal section of the component of Figure

[0060] 1 from a further perspective in exploded view,

[0061] Figure 5 is a schematic longitudinal section through a liquid filter with a component for the liquid filter according to Figure 1,

[0062] Figure 6 is a schematic longitudinal section through the liquid filter of

[0063] Figure 5 in a different section axis,

[0064] Figure 7 is a schematic perspective view of a first

[0065] End cap facing underside of a cover of the component of Figure 1 ,

[0066] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a lid-directed

[0067] Top of the first end cap of the component of Figure 1,

[0068] Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of the cover of Figure 7 onto the

[0069] bottom of the lid,

[0070] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view of the top of the first end cap of Figure 8,

[0071] Figure 11 is a schematic representation of a first play of a locking connection between the first end cap and the cover,

[0072] Figure 12 is a schematic representation of a second clearance between the end cap and the cover,

[0073] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view of the component of Figure 1 with the cover from above,

[0074] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view of the component of Figure 1 without the cover, and Figure 15 is a schematic partial sectional view of the component of Figure 1 in a further sectional plane.

[0075] Preferred embodiments of the invention

[0076] A component 100 and a liquid filter 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the invention are described in detail below with reference to Figures 1 to 15.

[0077] In Figures 1 to 4, a component 100 adapted for mounting in a liquid filter 1 is shown in detail.

[0078] Figures 5 and 6 show the liquid filter 1 with the component 100 installed or mounted. The component 100 is installed in a housing 9 of the liquid filter 1. The housing 9 has an inlet 36 (here, for example, from the side) and an outlet 37 (here, for example, at a distal end of the housing 9). The housing 9 further defines an interior space 35 in which the component 100 is accommodated.

[0079] A liquid supplied through the inlet 36 is passed - here for example from radially outside (raw side) - through a filter medium 4, for example a paper filter or the like, which is designed as a hollow cylinder, for example - here for example from radially inside (clean side) - and through the component 100 to the outlet 37, from which the now filtered liquid emerges.

[0080] As can be seen from Figs. 5 and 6, the filter medium 4 is arranged parallel to an axial direction A in the interior space 35. The liquid passes through the filter medium 4 in a radial direction R. U denotes a circumferential direction around the axial direction A.

[0081] In this exemplary embodiment, component 100 comprises a filter element 30 with a first end cap 2, a second end cap 3 provided here as an example, and the filter medium 4. Component 100 further comprises a cover 32 and a compensation element 8 - present here only as an example - or has these components. Component 100 forms a pre-assembled module. Cover 32 and filter element 30 as well as the optional compensation element 8 are coupled or connected to one another as a captive unit, here in the form of component 100 - in particular before assembly in housing 9. Compensation element 8 here has, for example, a central body 82 running in the axial direction and a radial section 80 running in the radial direction R and arranged at a distal end of central body 82.

[0082] The component 100 is screwed into the housing 9 of the liquid filter 1 by means of a thread 34 on the cover 32. Two O-rings 6 on the first and second end caps 2, 3 each seal the component 100 against an inner wall of the housing 9. These two O-rings 6, in conjunction with the housing 9, create an internal seal, thus preventing a fluidic short circuit between the raw side and the clean side of the filter element 30. The O-ring 6 on the first end cap 2 simultaneously creates an external seal. It prevents fluid (here, for example, from the raw side) from entering an external space of the liquid filter 1.

[0083] The filter medium 4 is arranged in the axial direction A between the first end cap 2 and the second end cap 3. The first end cap 2 is further coupled or connected to the cover 32.

[0084] The filter medium 4 as well as the first end cap 2 and the second end cap 3 are parts of the filter element 30 as described above. The filter element 30 is replaceable as a unit (in particular together with the cover 32 as a kind of handle).

[0085] The compensation element 8 has a locking lug, which can be snapped onto the first end cap 2. The compensation element 8 can also be clamped between the cover 32 and the first end cap 2, in particular with a radial section 80 extending in the radial direction, additionally or exclusively, in particular to an (end cap) collar 81 or nozzle of the first end cap 2. A cap element 90 is arranged on the cover 32 and is designed to prevent dirt, grime, insects, and / or moisture from penetrating the interior of the compensation element 8. The cap element 90 enables, for example, a gas exchange between the interior of the compensation element 8 and the outside environment. For example, this can be a membrane through which a gas exchange is possible.

[0086] The filter medium 4 can, for example, be star-pleated and made of, for example, filter paper, melt-blown material, or the like. The filter medium 4 has a substantially cylindrical hollow interior 5 in which the compensation element 8 is arranged.

[0087] As can be seen from Figures 1 to 4, a filter element 30 comprises the filter medium 4 and at least the first end cap 2, preferably also the second end cap 3. The first end cap 2 is arranged in the axial direction A between the filter medium 4 and the cover 32. The filter medium 4 is arranged in the axial direction A between the first and second end caps 2, 3. The compensation element 8 can be arranged at least partially (e.g. with its radial section) in the axial direction A between the first end cap 2 and the cover 32.

[0088] To connect the cover 32 to the end cap 2, a locking arrangement 101 (see, for example, Fig. 6) is provided between the first end cap 2 and the cover 32. The locking arrangement 101 has a locking structure 110 and a counter-locking structure 112.

[0089] The locking arrangement 101 is particularly evident in Figs. 6, 9, and 10. As shown in Fig. 9, four locking structures 110 in the form of protruding lugs are arranged on the cover 32, for example (in principle, a single locking structure 110 may be sufficient, or two, three, or more than four locking structures 110 may be provided). Accordingly, four counter-locking structures 112 in the form of tabs with windows 113 are formed on the first end cap 2, for example (see also Fig. 8 and Fig. 11). It should be noted that the cover 32 from Fig. 9 is advantageously rotated by 90° when placed on the first end cap 2 in Fig. 10 for assembly.

[0090] It should be noted that the locking arrangement 101 can also be provided in reverse, i.e., the recesses and / or tabs with windows are provided on the cover 32 and the lugs are provided on the first end cap 2. The locking structure 110 and the counter-locking structure 112 are designed such that a maximum first play X in the circumferential direction U is present or formed between the locking structure 110 and the counter-locking structure 112. This can be seen in detail in Fig. 11.

[0091] Furthermore, a stop 50 with a first stop structure 51 and a second stop structure 52 is provided. This can be seen in detail in Figure 12. The first stop structure 51 is arranged on the cover 32, and the second stop structure 52 on the first end cap 2. A maximum second play Y is present or formed in the circumferential direction U between the first stop structure 51 and the second stop structure 52. This can be seen in detail in Figure 12. To protect the locking arrangement 101, the first play X is greater than the second play Y.

[0092] Since the first play X is greater than the second play Y, the locking arrangement 101 is protected from damage, in particular from loads or forces acting in the direction of rotation and / or torques between the cover and the filter element. For example, when screwing the component 100 on the cover 32 into the housing 9, a torque can be exerted on the component 100, whereby the locking arrangement 101 is exposed to a very high load in the event of improper handling or due to the friction of the O-rings 6 on the housing 9 or excessive force. In order to avoid damage, without the stop 50, an increased wall thickness or a larger dimensioning of the locking arrangement 101 might be necessary, which, however, would increase the costs and impair the flexibility of the locking arrangement 101. The stop 50 can also be used to absorb shocks or vibrations acting on the liquid filter 1 (e.g.when driving over bumpy terrain or the like) are absorbed or reduced so that they do not act on the locking arrangement 101, or do not act with full force. Damage to the locking arrangement 101 must be avoided in order to enable safe and reliable disassembly of the complete component 100 (in particular of the filter element 30 of the component) during maintenance. By cleverly designing the locking arrangement 101 with a circumferential play that is greater than a circumferential play of the stop 50, damage to the locking arrangement 101 can be reliably prevented, or the stop 50 can safely and reliably protect the locking arrangement 101 from excessive force. To reliably protect the locking arrangement 101, the first play X is preferably at least 10% greater than the second play Y. Alternatively or additionally, the first play X is at least 0.05 mm, preferably at least 0.1 mm greater than the second play.The difference between the first clearance X and the second clearance Y can be, for example, 0.12 mm, 0.14 mm, or 0.16 mm. It can be, for example, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or 60%, or even greater percentage deviations.

[0093] In principle, the second clearance Y can be zero (0), meaning that the first stop structure 51 and the second stop structure 52 are in mechanical contact with each other. This enables particularly good relief of the locking arrangement 101 in the direction of rotation U.

[0094] Thus, stress on the locking arrangement 101 can be prevented both during assembly of the component 100 and during installation of the component 100 into the liquid filter 1. The component 100 can be pre-assembled outside the housing 9, and then the cover 32, together with the filter element 30 (and the compensation element 8), can be mounted into the housing 9 by sliding and / or rotating it. This assembly process also differs from the prior art, since the filter element 30 is typically inserted into the housing 9 and then secured by screwing the cover 32 onto the housing 9. In the prior art, this creates the described hazards to the locking arrangement or other parts of the component 100.

[0095] In order to provide the most compact structure possible, the cover 32 has a collar 33. The collar 33 comprises a first collar part 33a and a second collar part 33b. As can be seen from Fig. 9, the first and second collar parts 33a, 33b lie opposite one another on the cover 32 on the side facing the first end cap 2 and, by way of example, are of the same construction here. In the circumferential direction, a first intermediate space 11 and a second intermediate space 12 are provided between the first collar part 33a and the second collar part 33b. The first and second intermediate spaces 11, 12 also lie opposite one another on the cover 32. In this exemplary embodiment, the first stop structure 51 is provided with two pairs 51b of tower-like stop elements 51a (see Fig. 7). One pair 51b of the stop elements 51a each closes off the first and second collar parts 33a, 33b in the circumferential direction U.

[0096] The two pairs 51b of the tower-like stop elements 51a are each configured to receive the second stop structure 52 of the first end cap 2 between them with the second clearance Y in the assembled state.

[0097] The tower-like stop elements 51a have an extension both in the axial direction A over the collar parts 33a, 33b and in the radial direction R over the collar parts 33a, 33b, which have a relatively thin wall thickness.

[0098] As can be seen from Figs. 8 and 10, the first end cap 2 has a groove 20 in which the counter-locking structures 112 and the second stop structures 52 are arranged. This results in a short structure in the axial direction A when the first end cap 2 and the cover 32 are connected to one another. This also prevents the locking arrangement 101 from being released again when the component 100 is in the assembled state, or at least makes it more difficult to release the locking arrangement 101. This prevents incorrect operation by a user. The component 100 can, for example, be delivered to the user pre-assembled by a manufacturer so that a quality control of the correct assembly of the component 100 can be ensured before delivery. The user can then install the pre-assembled component 100 into the housing 9 of the liquid filter 1 without any further assembly steps on the component 100.This also ensures correct cleaning performance by the filter element 30 or the liquid filter 1 (accidental installation of only the cover 32 without the filter element 30 is thus prevented).

[0099] In order to also avoid axial impacts on the locking arrangement 101, the component 100 further comprises an axial stop 60. The axial stop 60 has an axial stop structure 61 arranged on the cover 32 for a stop in the axial direction A of the cover 32 with the first end cap 2. When the first end cap 2 is mounted on the cover 32, the axial stop structure 61 can, for example as shown here, come into contact with the second stop structure 52 on the first end cap 2 (or with another element of the first end cap 2) in such a way that a defined or minimum axial distance Z is formed or defined between the cover 32 and the first end cap 2. The axial distance Z can be seen in Figure 15. If, for example, a force in the axial direction A acts on the cover 32 in the direction of the filter element 30, the cover 32 goes into block by means of the axial stop structure 61 after an axial path that would exceed the minimum axial distance Z.Further axial displacement is not possible. This protects not only the locking arrangement 101 but also the radial section of the compensation element 8. If the minimum axial distance Z were to be undercut (without axial stop 60), the radial section of the compensation element 8 could, for example, be (excessively) crushed or even punctured. Furthermore, as can be clearly seen in Fig. 6, a distal or free end of the counter-locking structure 112 could run onto the first end cap 2, and if the axial distance were to be further reduced, the counter-locking structure 112 could be damaged. Furthermore, a radially outer side of the counter-locking structure 112 could run onto the bevel of the locking structure 110, and the counter-locking structure 112 could thus be displaced radially inward. As a result, the locking structure 110 and the counter-locking structure 112 would become disengaged and possibly undergo plastic deformation.If the cover 32 were rotated backward, it would not be reliably guaranteed that the filter element 30 is securely connected to the cover 32 in the axial direction A and could be removed from the liquid filter 1 together with the cover 32. Thus, in this embodiment, the minimum axial distance Z prevents the counter-locking structure 112 from coming into (axial) contact with the first end cap 2 with its distal end and / or from disengaging the counter-locking structure 112 from engaging the locking element 110, in particular due to a radial displacement.

[0100] The second end cap 3 further has an opening for the flow through of the filtered liquid, which then enters the outlet 37 and is discharged.

[0101] The liquid filter 1 can be, for example, a Denox liquid filter, an AdBlueO liquid filter, or a DEF liquid filter. Such a Denox liquid filter is used, for example, in an SCR system and filters, for example, aqueous urea solutions for exhaust gas aftertreatment of an internal combustion engine. Reference numerals

[0102] 1 liquid filter

[0103] 100 components

[0104] 2 first end cap

[0105] 3 second end cap

[0106] 4 Filter medium

[0107] 5 hollow interior

[0108] 6 O-rings

[0109] 8 Compensation element

[0110] 9 housings

[0111] 11 first space

[0112] 12 second space

[0113] 20 Groove on the first end cap

[0114] 30 filter element

[0115] 32 lids

[0116] 33 collars

[0117] 33a first collar part

[0118] 33b second collar part

[0119] 34 threads

[0120] 35 Interior

[0121] 36 Inlet

[0122] 37 Process

[0123] 50 stops

[0124] 51 first stop structure on the lid

[0125] 51a tower-like stop elements

[0126] 51 b Pair of tower-like stop elements

[0127] 52 second stop structure on the first end cap

[0128] 60 axial stop

[0129] 61 Axial stop structure

[0130] 80 Radial section of the compensation element

[0131] 81 (End cap) collar or nozzle

[0132] 82 central bodies

[0133] 90 cap element

[0134] 101 Snap-in arrangement 110 Snap-in structure on the cover

[0135] 112 Counter-locking structure on the first end cap

[0136] 113 windows

[0137] A Axial direction R Radial direction

[0138] U circumferential direction

[0139] X first game

[0140] Y second game

[0141] Z minimum axial distance between cover and first end cap

Claims

Claims 1. Component adapted for mounting in a liquid filter (1) for filtering liquids having a housing (9), the component (100) comprising: - a lid (32), - a filter element (30) comprising a filter medium (4) and a first end cap (2), wherein the first end cap (2) is arranged between the filter medium (4) and the cover (32), - a locking arrangement (101) comprising a locking structure (110) and a counter-locking structure (112), wherein the locking arrangement is arranged between the first end cap (2) and the cover (32), - wherein a maximum first play (X) in the circumferential direction (U) is present between the locking structure (110) and the counter-locking structure (112), - wherein the locking structure (110) is arranged on the cover (32) and the counter-locking structure (112) is arranged on the first end cap (2), and - a stop (50) comprising a first stop structure (51) and a second stop structure (52), - wherein the first stop structure (51) is arranged on the cover (32) and the second stop structure (52) is arranged on the first end cap (2), - wherein a maximum second play (Y) in the circumferential direction (U) is present between the first stop structure (51) and the second stop structure (52), and - wherein, to protect the locking arrangement (101), the first play (X) is greater than the second play (Y), in particular at least 10% greater and / or at least 0.05mm greater.

2. Component according to claim 1, wherein the cover (32) has a collar (33) on which the locking structure (110) and / or the first stop structure (51) is arranged.

3. Component according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first end cap (2) has a groove (20) in which the counter-locking structure (112) and the second stop structure (52) are arranged.

4. Component according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the collar (33) of the cover (32) has a first collar part (33a) and a second collar part (33b), which are divided in the circumferential direction (U) by a first intermediate space (11) and a second intermediate space (12), and in particular wherein the first stop structure (51) has two pairs (51b) of tower-like stop elements (51a), wherein one pair (51b) of the stop elements (51a) closes off the first and second collar part (33a, 33b) in the circumferential direction (U) and the two pairs (51b) of the tower-like stop elements (51a) are each designed to receive a second stop structure (52) of the first end cap (2) between them with the second play (Y) in the assembled state.

5. Component according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising an axial stop (60) with an axial stop structure (61) arranged on the cover (32) for a stop in the axial direction (A) of the cover (32) with the first end cap (2), wherein in the mounted state of the first end cap (2) on the cover (32) the axial stop structure (61) can come into contact with the first end cap, in particular with the second stop structure (52) on the first end cap (2), such that a minimum axial distance (Z) is defined between the cover (32) and the first end cap (2).

6. Component according to claim 5, wherein the axial stop structure (61) on the cover (32) is arranged in the circumferential direction (U) at the first intermediate space (11) and second intermediate space (12) between the first stop structure (51).

7. Component according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking structure (110) on the cover (32) has a protruding nose and the counter-locking structure (112) on the first end cap (2) is formed as a complementarily designed recess.

8. Component according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a compensation element (8) which is arranged in the interior of the filter element (30), wherein the cover (32), the filter element (30) and the compensation element (8) are captively coupled to one another, in particular before assembly of the component (100) in the liquid filter.

9. Component according to claim 8, wherein the compensation element (8) is connected to the first end cap (2) by means of a snap-in connection and / or wherein the compensation element (8) is clamped on a radial section (80) of the compensation element (8) between the cover (32) and the first end cap (2) in the axial direction (A) of the component (100).

10. Liquid filter (1) comprising a component (100) according to one of the preceding claims and a housing (9), wherein the component (100) is mounted in the housing (9), in particular by means of a screw connection, in particular detachably as a subassembly.

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