Liquid filter with anti-leak valve

Abstract

To provide a mechanism for preventing fuel from dropping down to an operator by closing a fuel inlet when a filter housing is detached from a filter head.SOLUTION: A filter 12 includes: a filter head 36 for partitioning into an inlet port and an outlet port; and a filter housing 30 mounted below the filter head and including a filter element 32 placed at the center of a central axis X38. The filter element includes a filtering material 38, an upper plate 42 and a lower plate 40. The filter head 36 includes a leakage prevention valve having a closing element movable between a closed position for closing the inlet port and an open position for enabling liquid to flow through the inlet port. The filter 12 further includes a pin mounted to the filter element 32 and configured to penetrate through inside of the inlet port. Due to this configuration, the closing element is moved from the closed position to the open position.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid filter, typically a fuel filter, equipped with an anti-leak valve. The invention applies primarily to fuel filtration, but similar principles are used in lubricating oil circuits. It is also possible to do so.

[0002] The present invention can be applied to large vehicles such as trucks, buses, and construction machines. Although the invention will be described with respect to a vehicle, the invention is not limited to this particular vehicle and may be used in a wide variety of vehicles, such as passenger cars. and more generally, can be used in any vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine. [Background technology]

[0003] Liquid filters are typically installed in vehicles to filter liquids, which may be fuel or lubricating oil, for example. Remove impurities.

[0004] A conventional liquid filter element includes a tubular filter medium, and both ends of the filter medium are provided with a filter. Two end plates are attached to both axial ends of the material in a sealed condition. Typically, the top plate includes a central opening that is in fluid communication with the interior volume of the filter media. The filter element is placed inside a filter housing, which is typically made of aluminum. The filter housing is then fitted with a filter head (also known as a "casing"). The filter head is fitted under the filter head (which is fitted with an inlet port and an outlet port). is.

[0005] Thus, the liquid to be filtered flows through the inlet of the filter head and the filter media, and then is filtered. The used liquid leaves the filter element through a central opening in the top plate, It can eventually exit through an outlet in the filter head.

[0006] The filter media gradually becomes clogged and must be replaced periodically to maintain its effectiveness. For this, the filter housing is removed from the casing and the old filter element is The filter element is removed and a new filter element is inserted into the filter housing. The housing is then fitted back into place on the casing.

[0007] Nowadays, it is necessary to close the fuel inlet when removing the housing from the filter head. This prevents fuel from dripping onto workers during maintenance work. Also, there may be a missing or improperly fitted filter element. It is also necessary to prevent the engine from running when This is also known as a "no-op" feature.

[0008] In this regard, EP 2029885 discloses that the filter element When properly inserted into the filter housing, the filter element provides a return light to the fuel tank. The present application discloses a fuel filter including a pin arranged to close a closure. If the return line is open due to a missing element and / or filter element, The fuel delivered to the filter housing preferably flows through a return line, e.g. If the fuel tank is full, the engine will return to the fuel tank. In this case, no fuel is supplied or there is not enough fuel supplied. After that, the internal combustion engine cannot be started.

[0009] However, such literature does not address the issue of removing the filter house from the casing during maintenance operations. Do not disclose any solutions to prevent fuel from splashing on the floor when removing the jar. not present.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,698,093 discloses a housing containing a filter element. A fuel filter with a valve system that closes the fuel inlet when removed from the casing. The valve system is adapted to allow the filter element to flow through the filter when properly installed. The valve system includes a number of valve stems that are pushed up by an element. The housing includes an opening for an inlet passage for unfiltered fuel inside, and a filter element is attached. Once removed, gravity will move it downwards, closing off the entrance passage.

[0011] This publication states that the engine will not operate if the filter element is missing. However, this publication discloses a solution that uses a frame installed inside the housing. It does not handle the case where the filter element is not appropriate.

[0012] In U.S. Pat. No. 5,591,332, the housing is inserted from the center of the cap (124). The filter housing includes a cylindrical neck (134) projecting upwardly from the casing. When assembled, the neck (134) pushes the piston (18) up and into the inlet opening (76 The present invention discloses a fluid filter assembly having a cylindrical projection (139) that exposes the , extending downward from the bottom of the cap (124) around the central return hole (138). When the filter housing (60) is removed from the casing (10), the piston The turn spring (22) pushes the piston (18) downward, resulting in a piston flap. The filter advances to the radial opening (76) to stop the flow of fluid.

[0013] The fluid filter assembly disclosed in this publication has a filter housing with a filter therein. It can operate even if the filter is not installed, so it is not possible to operate without the filter. " function.

[0014] U.S. Patent No. 6,171,491 discloses a filter element (98) attached to a head. If the fuel tank is fully seated, fluid will flow from the central fuel chamber (212) through the opening (198). To enable this, the free end (224) of the actuation projection (222) is in contact with the valve element (196). The filter is shown disposed so as to engage and separate from the opening (198). Thus, the central fuel chamber of the filter element can be connected to the outlet (102) of the head. can. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0015] The object of the present invention is to provide a filter housing that is adapted to receive a fuel inlet when the filter housing is removed from the filter head. The objective is to provide a mechanism for closing the opening and preventing fuel from dripping onto the operator. Using the same mechanism, check that there is no filter element or filter inside the filter housing. It can detect that the filter element inside the filter housing is not the correct one. The goal is to achieve a "no filter required" functionality. [Means for solving the problem]

[0016] To this end, the present invention provides a liquid filter for a vehicle, preferably a fuel filter. The liquid filter includes a filter head defining an inlet port and an outlet port, and a filter member. The filter head is mounted below the filter element and is centered on the central axis. The filter element includes a filter medium, a top plate, and a filter housing. The filter housing includes a bottom plate and a bottom plate for receiving a flow of liquid to be filtered. a first volume radially bounded around the filter media and communicating with the inlet port; A second bore radially dividing the interior of the filter media and communicating with the outlet port for receiving the liquid flow. It separates the volume from the rest.

[0017] According to the present invention, the filter head has a closed position in which the inlet port is closed and a closed position in which liquid is not allowed to pass through the inlet port. A leak-proof valve having a closing element movable between an open position and an open position allowing flow through the valve. The filter includes a filter element and a filter tube that is attached to the filter element and covers the inside of the inlet port. The closure element further includes a pin configured to extend therethrough to move the closure element from a closed position to an open position. Move it to.

[0018] The term "attached to the filter element" refers to the pin being attached to the filter element. Attached to or integral with the filter element, in particular with the top plate Please understand that it is possible.

[0019] Thanks to the invention, if there is no filter element, the closure element defaults to the inlet port. Since the inlet port is closed, the filter element is automatically closed. Without it, fuel would not flow through the inlet port and the liquid filter would not be supplied with fuel. However, due to a lack of fuel, the engine will start for a short time. The filter element in the system is designed for this specific application. If the filter element is not fitted with a pin (i.e. the filter element does not have a pin), the same drawbacks will occur. This is called "no filter, no work."

[0020] According to a further advantageous, but not essential, aspect of the invention, the liquid filter of the invention comprises: It may include one or more of the following features, taken alone or in any combination. When attaching the filter housing to the filter head, the pin Guide the pin toward the inlet port until it reaches a configuration that is axially aligned with the inlet port. It further includes an indexing means.

[0021] Thus, when the filter head is attached to the filter housing to reach the mounting configuration, An indexing means cooperates with the pin to provide a configuration in which the pin is axially aligned with the inlet port. This is because when the filter housing remains attached to the filter head, After the pin first rotates around the central axis, it stops rotating and rotates around the inside of the inlet port. Removing the filter housing exposes the filter. The closure element moves to the closed position before the filter housing is completely removed. When replacing the filter element, the liquid can be prevented from falling. Thanks to this, you don't need to worry about the orientation of the pin relative to the filter head. The step is to align the pins when the filter housing is installed under the filter head. The indexation or alignment of the pins with the inlet ports is done automatically. . The filter element is fixed and rotated relative to the filter housing. It is part of a ring rotatably mounted to the top plate of the filter element. The filter element is movable and rotatable relative to the filter housing. is part of the top plate of the filter element. The pin is positioned eccentrically relative to the central axis. The pin is located in the center of the top plate. The pin extends axially upwards. The closure element is a ball or a plunger.

[0022] This allows easy circulation of liquid in the open position of the closure element. The plunger has a simple geometry and is easily movable, which reduces the need for pinless fluid communication. The interruption of traffic is also achieved in a reliable manner. The filter head includes an inlet conduit disposed upstream of the inlet port and another outlet port; a bypass extending between the inlet conduit and the other outlet port. The closing element closes the bypass when in the closed position, and the bypass remains open as long as the closing element is in the closed position. The electrodes are positioned so that they remain in place.

[0023] Therefore, without a filter cartridge inside the filter housing, all fuel The fuel filter inlet is bypassed and flows to the other outlet port back to the fuel tank. No fuel flows through the port. The filter element is placed inside the filter housing. A first structure that is axially retained within the filter housing and that is axially removable from the filter housing. and a second configuration in which the first configuration can be rotated between. The filter element is attached to the filter housing using a bayonet mounting system. It is installed.

[0024] The present invention also relates to a vehicle including a liquid filter as described above. The outlet port is connected to the internal combustion engine of the vehicle, and the other outlet port, if any, is connected to the fuel tank of the vehicle. is connected to the network.

[0025] Further advantages and advantageous features of the present invention are disclosed in the following description.

[0026]

[0023] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in more detail, given by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: explain. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle, in particular a truck, equipped with an internal combustion engine and at least one fuel filter according to the invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is an arrangement of the internal combustion engine of the vehicle of FIG. 1 with a main filter and a pre-filter which can be considered as a first and second embodiment of the invention, respectively; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the main filter (first embodiment). [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of box IV in FIG. 3, with the main filter anti-leakage valve open. [Diagram 5] 5 is a view comparable to FIG. 4, with the filter housing removed from the filter head and the anti-leak valve switched to the closed position. [Figure 6] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a prefilter (second embodiment). [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the pre-filter anti-leak valve with the anti-leak valve open. [Figure 8] 8 is a view comparable to FIG. 7, with the filter housing removed from the filter head and the anti-leak valve switched to the closed position. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a bottom view of the filter head of the prefilter. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a filter housing of the prefilter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] In the following detailed description of the drawings defined above, similar elements ( In some embodiments, the components may be labeled with the same reference numerals in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle 2, in particular a truck. The vehicle 2 includes an internal combustion engine. Only one of these injection systems 20 is shown in the figures, particularly in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. The fuel tank 4, the pre-filter 6 (optional), the main filter 12, and the low-pressure pump 1 0 and .

[0030] Generally, the fuel tank 4 is connected to the pre-filter 6 by a line 8. The filter 6 includes a tubular filter material through which fuel passes from the outside to the inside during operation. This occurs when unfiltered fuel reaches the chambers around the filter media and flows through the media, then enters the central chamber of the media. The pump 10, called the "low pressure pump", Fuel is drawn from the outlet of the main filter 6 through a line 14 and pumped to the inlet of the main filter 12. do.

[0031] Fuel is pumped from the filter 12 through a line 16 which carries the fuel to the injection system 20 of the engine. Advantageously, the injection system 20 draws fuel from the main filter 12 and injects it. The injection system 20 may include a pump injector that pumps the fuel into the injection system 20, but alternatively, in many cases, A pump called a "high pressure pump" is used to pump the fuel from the filter 12 to the injection system 20. The material can be pumped.

[0032] The system also includes a line 22 for draining unburned fuel during combustion. In reality, it is the mixture of fuel and gases that leaves the combustion cylinder of the engine. Also, isolation valve 24 separates the liquid from the gas. The liquid is passed through suction line 1 of low pressure pump 10. 4 while the gas flows back to the fuel tank 4.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 3, the filter 12 includes a filter element 32 ("filter cartridge"). The filter includes a filter housing 30 within which a filter tube (also known as a “filter”) is disposed. The filter housing 30 is preferably made of plastic and defines an opening in the top. .

[0034] The filter housing 30 includes a filter head 36 ("filter cover" or "filter The casing is designed to be mounted underneath the Therefore, the filter head 36 is fixed to the upper part of the filter housing 30. The filter housing 30 is provided with a filter head 31 and a filter housing 32. The filter housing 30 is provided with a filter head 31 and a filter head 32. 6 downwardly, thereby removing the filter element 32. This can then be replaced if necessary.

[0035] The filter head 36 is preferably made of aluminum and is adapted to mount the fuel filter 12 to the engine. It also serves as a mounting bracket for fastening to the suspension block.

[0036] As used herein, the filters 6 and 12 are referred to as having a "cartridge structure" or a "spin-on structure." In the "cartridge structure," the filter housing 30 is a permanent housing and only the filter element or cartridge 32 is installed as needed. In the "spin-on structure," the filter housing 30 and the filter element The filter element 32 forms a self-contained housing and element assembly. It is removed from the head 36, discarded and replaced with a new one.

[0037] The filter element 32 is a tube disposed between two parallel plates 40 and 42. The filter medium 38 defines a central axis X38 (or axis of rotation). 38 is made from a pleated sheet in a manner known per se.

[0038] Due to its tubular shape, the filter media 38 includes volumes above, below and around the filter media 38. The system defines an inner or central volume V1, and an outer volume V2. .

[0039] Plate 42 is referred to as the "upper plate" since it is located at the top of the filter in the configuration in use. while plate 40 is known as the "lower plate" for the same reason. The plates 40 and 42 are made of a liquid impermeable material.

[0040] In this example, the two plates 40 and 42 are disk-shaped and have a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the filter medium 38. It has a large maximum diameter (or outer diameter).

[0041] The filter element 32 also includes a central tube 33 ("center tube") that is coaxially disposed in the center of the filter media 38. This is because the central axis X38 of the filter medium 38 is aligned with the central tube. This means that the central axis 38 of the central tube 33 overlaps with the central axis 38 of the central tube 33. The arm forms an inflow passage for the liquid to be filtered.

[0042] In this example, the wall surface of the central tube 33 is filled, meaning that the central tube 33 does not contain any radial holes. And during operation, the liquid contained inside the central tube 33 cannot be radially discharged to the outside of the central tube.

[0043] During operation, fuel flows radially from the outside to the inside through the filter medium 38. This means that the filter housing 30 radially demarcates a first volume V1 that receives the flow of the liquid to be filtered and surrounds the filter medium 38, and a second volume V2 that receives the flow of the filtered liquid and radially demarcates the inside of the filter medium 38.

[0044] The upper plate 42 is provided with an opening 60 (see FIG. 4) of a liquid passage that communicates with the second volume V2. This means that during operation, the filtered liquid contained inside the filter medium 38 can be directly discharged upward to the conduit 16 through the opening 60 of the upper plate.

[0045] The filter head 36 demarcates an inlet port (also known as an "inlet hole" or "inlet opening") 19 that can be particularly seen in FIG. 5 and an outlet port 21 that can be particularly seen in FIG. 4. In this specification, according to the general definition, a "port" or "orifice" does not necessarily have to be interpreted as a hole with a circular cross-section, but more generally is an opening and its shape can be anything.

[0046] The inlet port 19 communicates with the first volume V1, while the outlet port 21 communicates with the second volume V2.

[0047] In FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, dashed arrows A1, A2, A3 and A4 indicate the liquid It represents the passageway of the body.

[0048] The central tube 33 and the lower plate 40 are arranged such that, in operation, liquid passes through the lower plate 40 to the filter media. The gases are connected to each other so that they are discharged to the outside of 38.

[0049] In this example, the central tube 33 and the lower plate 40 are the two distinct components. 33 is hermetically connected to a hole in the lower plate 40 .

[0050] In this specification, according to common definition, the central tube 33 is "connected" to the lower plate 40. The fact that the central tube 33 and the lower plate 40 are made of two different parts requires that In a variant not shown, the central tube 33 is integral with the lower plate 40. It may be integrated (i.e., as a single part).

[0051] The top plate 42 defines a central opening which provides an exit passage for the filtered liquid. This central opening opens into the central volume of the filter media 38. In other words, the upper plate The central opening of the filter port is in direct communication with the interior volume of the filter media 38, The filtered liquid can be drained directly upwards through the openings in the top plate.

[0052] Moreover, the central tube 33 is disposed radially spaced from the inner wall of the filter medium 38 .

[0053] In this example, the central tube 33 is connected to one of the two plates 40 and 42, in particular the lower plate 4 0, specifically secured with a clip.

[0054] Advantageously, the central tube 33 passes through the upper plate 42, i.e. The filtered liquid is received inside the opening of the central tube 33. The central tube 33 passes between the top plate opening and the other part of the filter element 32. It protrudes upwards compared to

[0055] In operation, as shown in FIG. 3, the fuel to be filtered passes through the radial holes extending through the central tube 33. The fuel then flows through the central pipe into the filter housing 30. The fuel then flows through the entire length of the central tube 33 and the upper plate 4 (arrow A1). 0 through the bottom plate 40 and onto the side of the filter media 38. Therefore, it flows upward and accumulates in the volume around the filter media 38 (arrow A2). The material flows through the filter medium 38 in a direction generally radial to the central axis X38 of the filter medium 38 (arrow A3 The filtered fuel then flows upward along the central pipe 33 and through the central pipe 33 and the upper plate. The outlet duct extends through the filter head 36 and passes through a passage between the outlet duct and the filter head opening. It merges with a pipe (not shown) (see arrow A4).

[0056] In this example, the central pipe 33 directs the flow of fuel in a spiral direction (see FIG. 3) around a central axis X38. The fins drive the flow of filtered fuel to the upper This has the advantage of guiding the flow to dynamic flow behavior. This can prevent the fuel from flowing downward and accumulating at the bottom of the filter.

[0057] Typically, the liquid to be filtered passes through a central passage into the filter housing, as shown in FIG. The filtered liquid then flows into the filter housing 30 through a central passage. The outlet passages are generally arranged coaxially around the inlet passages. do.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the filter head 36 is in a closed position ( 5) and an open position (represented in FIG. 5) that allows liquid to flow through the inlet port 19. 4) and a closing element 52 movable between the leak-proof valve 50 ( It is unique in that it includes an inlet valve (also known as an "inlet valve").

[0059] In this example, the leak-proof valve 50 is closed, as is normal for this type of valve. The chain element 52 cooperates with a valve seat. The valve seat is located at one end of the filter head 36. It is a department.

[0060] Advantageously, the valve seat consists of rubber, which avoids the use of an additional sealing ring.

[0061] Additionally, the filter 12 is fitted with a filter element 32 and is connected to the inlet port 19. The closure element further includes a pin 54 configured to extend therethrough. 52 from the closed position to the open position.

[0062] To be precise, the closure element 52 is movable along an axial direction, i.e. a direction parallel to the central axis X38. The closure element 52 closes the inlet port 19 by default under the influence of gravity. When the pin 54 penetrates the inlet port 19, the pin 54 pushes the closure element 52 upward, This opens the passage of liquid through port 19. When filter housing 30 is removed, The pin 54 exits the inlet port 19 and the closure element 52 returns to the closed position under the influence of gravity. Thus, the leak-proof valve 50 stops the inlet flow of fuel through the inlet port 19. This is This means that fuel will not drip onto the floor or onto operators while the filter element 32 is being replaced.

[0063] In this example, the closure element 52 is a plunger (or piston).

[0064] Typically, the pin 54 is located in the center of the top plate 42. In this example, the pin The pin 54 extends axially upwardly from the other portion of the filter element 32. It protrudes upward relative to the

[0065] Although this is not shown in the illustrated example, the filter head 36 is connected to a return line. and another outlet conduit (not shown) in communication with valve 18. Preferably, a degassing valve (Valve) is included in the other conduit. As the name suggests, it is a degassing valve. When opened, the gas inside the filter housing (usually air) is released back into the fuel tank. , which closes as soon as the filter housing is filled with liquid. Such a degassing valve , are known in the art and will not be described in further detail.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the filter head 36 includes an inlet port 19 disposed upstream of the inlet port 19. It separates the duct 37 .

[0067] Thanks to this leak-proof valve 50, the closure element 52 closes the inlet port 19 by default. Therefore, in the absence of the filter element 32, the inlet port is automatically closed. Therefore, without the filter element 32, fuel would not flow through the inlet port 19 and would No fuel is supplied to the fuel filter 12. The engine is then allowed to start. However, The engine will automatically shut down after a short time due to insufficient fuel supply. The element (i.e., the filter element in the filter housing 30) is If the filter element is not designed for the application (i.e., the filter element is not provided with pins 54), If you don't have a filter, you can see the same drawback. This is because "without the filter, it doesn't work." "It is called "

[0068] In one alternative embodiment, not shown, the filter head 36 may have other outlet ports (see FIG. and a bypass (not shown) extending between the inlet conduit 37 and the other outlet port. In this case, the closure element 52 closes the bypass in the open position (FIG. 4) and the closure element It is arranged to open the bypass as long as it is in the closed position (Figure 5).

[0069] 6 to 8 show a pre-filter 6, which can be seen as another embodiment of the present invention. For brevity, only the differences relative to the main filter 12 are described below.

[0070] The first difference between the pre-filter 6 and the main filter 12 is the filter element 3 The pin 54 attached to the filter element 2 is disposed eccentrically with respect to the central axis X38 of the filter element 38. That is the thing.

[0071] Another difference is that the closure element 52 is a ball, preferably made of plastic. be.

[0072] The filter head 36 also includes a filter housing 30 attached to the filter head 36. When the inlet port 19 is inserted into the inlet hole 19, the pin 54 reaches a configuration in which the pin 54 is axially aligned with the inlet port 19 (i.e., an aligned configuration). The device further includes an indexing means 100 for guiding the pin 54 toward the inlet port 19 until the pin 54 is aligned with the inlet port 19. I am.

[0073] In this example, the filter element 32 is fixed and rotated relative to the filter housing 30. The pin 54 is rotatably attached to the top plate 42 of the filter element 32. 3 is a portion of the ring 56 that is rotated relative to the upper plate 42. Preferably, the ring 56 is flush with the upper surface of the top plate 42. Typically, the ring 56 is secured to the top plate 42 by a clip. However, any other means may be used to attach the ring 56 to the top plate 42. It can be attached.

[0074] In one alternative embodiment, not shown, the filter element 32 is Alternatively, the ring 56 may be movable relative to the ring 30. In this case, the ring 56 may be absent. The pin 54 is part of the top plate 42 of the filter element 32 .

[0075] As can be seen from FIG. 9, the indexing means 100 has an elliptic surface. The guide surface includes a guideway having a shape in the form of a guideway extending along the central axis of the filter 12, i.e., the center axis of the filter 12. The guide surface is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the axis X38. In other words, the guide surface is inclined with respect to the central axis of the central tube. It corresponds to the intersection of the central tube with a plane (inclined plane) that is not perpendicular to the axis.

[0076] The guide surface is adapted to guide the filter housing 30 to the bottom of the filter head 36 when the filter housing 30 is assembled to the bottom of the filter head 36. , which is designed to guide the pin 54 towards the inlet port 19 .

[0077] The indexing means 100 is attached to the filter head 36 and is aligned along the longitudinal axis X38. The wall 102 is configured to cooperate with the pin 54. The abutment portion is formed.

[0078] The walls 102 cooperate with the pins 54 to position and maintain the pins 54 in the aligned configuration described above. , a protrusion from the filter head 36. According to an embodiment of the invention, the wall 102 has a longitudinal It is a profiled part extending generally parallel to the adaxial axis X38.

[0079] Typically, when the filter element 32 needs to be replaced, an operator will First, remove the filter element by removing the filter housing 30 from the filter head 36. As the operator begins to remove the filter head 36, the pin 54 slides into the receiving hole. The pin 58 is prevented from rotating because it engages the inlet port 19 which functions as a rotary link. As soon as the pin 54 exits the inlet port 19, the rotating ring 56 is no longer impeded from rotating and rotates together with the filter element 32.

[0080] A new filter housing is then installed underneath the filter head. The filter housing 30 can be configured to hold ("cartridge" design) or discard ("spin-on" design). ) can be done.

[0081] An operator begins to install the filter housing 30 around or within the filter head 36. When the pin 54 is inserted into the inlet port 36, the pin 54 abuts against the guide surface 100 of the filter head 36. (It is not necessary to point it exactly in front of the 19.) And the screwing motion (including rotation and translation) causes the pin 54 to move along the guide surface 100.

[0082] The pin 54 is threaded depending on where it abuts the guide surface 100 of the filter head. It can move in the same direction as the movement of the pin 54 or in the opposite direction. The screw thread moves the pin closer to the inlet port 19, but the rotational motion tends to move the pin away from the inlet port 19. If so, the inclined nature of the guideway 100 would prevent the pin 54 from moving in that direction, in the other direction to reach the inlet port 19. This is because the rotating link to which the pin 54 belongs This is possible due to the fact that ring 56 can rotate relative to top plate 42. Thus, the pin 54 can rotate in one direction even when the top plate 42 rotates in the other direction. can.

[0083] Thus, pin 54 is automatically oriented toward its final position during the assembly operation. It should be understood that this is because the operator must insert the pin 54 into the inlet port 19. This means that the filter element 32 does not need to be oriented.

[0084] When the pin 54 reaches the inlet port 19, the ring 56 stops rotating. The filter housing 30 continues to rotate until the screwing motion is completed. 7. By continuing the above steps, the pin 54 is forced into the inlet port 19, so that the position of FIG. to reach.

[0085] One advantage of this particular filter design is that the filter element 32 can be easily replaced with a filter of a different design. If you try to replace it with a filter element, the anti-leak valve 50 will remain closed and the filter The advantage of this special design is that no fuel can enter the filter housing 30. When an improper filter element is installed inside the housing 30 (or This safety mechanism, as described above, It is called "without the filter it doesn't work" as in "no filter".

[0086] With reference to FIG. 10, the filter element 32 is disposed within the filter housing 30. The first structure (not shown) is axially held within the filter housing 30, and the second structure (not shown) is axially held within the filter housing 30. A second configuration (shown in FIG. 10) axially removed from the filter housing 30; , can be rotated between.

[0087] Typically, the filter element 32 is attached to the filter using a bayonet mounting system. Such a bayonet mounting system is at least At least one L-shaped locking groove is preferably provided on the radially inner surface of the filter housing 30. The grooves 70 are formed on the inner surface of the groove 70 and at least one complementary radial tooth, preferably a flat tooth. two complementary radial teeth on the radially outer surface of the filter element 32; The two radial teeth can be seen in FIG.

[0088] This bayonet mounting system allows for configurations where only the cartridge needs to be replaced (cartridge In practice, the filter housing is preferably mounted on the filter head. After removing the fuel from the fire, the worker first transfers the remaining fuel to a first dedicated waste box (not shown). to empty the housing, then move the filter cartridge relative to the housing to empty the first 2 (Fig. 10). Then, the operator simply inserts the opening of the filter housing into the ground. Simply point it towards you to easily remove the filter cartridge from the housing. The filter cartridge slides from the housing by gravity into a second dedicated disposal bin (not shown). This allows both the fuel and the cartridges to be recycled, The process is more environmentally friendly.

[0089] In a variant not shown, a clipping means is used instead of the bayonet mounting system. The filter element 32 can be mounted inside the filter housing 30. Typically, the filter element 32 is partitioned in the filter housing 30. The filter head 36 includes one or more clips that engage within corresponding recesses. When the filter housing 30 is removed from the housing, the worker uses a screwdriver or the like to remove the housing. The filter element 32 can be easily separated from the filter housing 36 to remove the filter from the filter housing 36. The filter element 32 can be removed.

[0090] Preferably, the filter head 36 includes a leak-proof ring ( The anti-spillage ring 104 is attached to the filter head. 32. This allows the dead volume between the filter 36 and the filter cartridge 32 to be filled. Therefore, when the filter housing 30 is removed from the filter head 36, the leak-proof ring The fuel trapped between 104 and the filter cartridge 32 enters the filter housing 30. This ensures that fuel will not leak even if the filter housing 30 is removed. It means.

[0091] Preferably, the leakproof ring 104 includes ribs 106 to reinforce its structure.

[0092] In this embodiment, for the main filter 12, the outlet port 21 is disposed in the filter head 36 This is because the filtered liquid is separated from the center of the filter by the This means that liquid will flow out.

[0093] In a variant not shown, the filter housing 30 is attached to the top of the filter head 36. This is because, in the assembled configuration, the filter is located below the filter housing 30. This means that there is a head 36. In this embodiment, a return means such as a spring is not used. 4. The closure element 52 may be pushed upwardly to maintain it in the closed position.

[0094] Needless to say, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above by way of example. This specification includes all variations thereof.

[0095] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and illustrated above, but rather, those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the claims at the time of filing is as follows: [Claim 1] A vehicle liquid filter (6, 12), preferably a fuel filter, comprising: a filter head (36) defining an inlet port (19) and an outlet port (21); a filter housing (30) including a filter element (32) mounted below the filter head (36) and centered about a central axis (X38), the filter element including a filter medium (38), an upper plate (42) and a lower plate (40); Equipped with the filter housing (30) defines a first volume radially bounded about the periphery of the filter media (38) and in fluid communication with the inlet port (19) for receiving a flow of liquid to be filtered, and a second volume radially bounded within the filter media (38) and in fluid communication with the outlet port (21) for receiving a flow of filtered liquid; the filter head (36) comprising a closure element (52) movable between a closed position that closes the inlet port (19) and an open position that allows liquid to flow through the inlet port (19); the filter (6,12) further includes a pin (54) attached to the filter element (32) and configured to pass through an interior of the inlet port (19) to move the closure element (52) from the closed position to the open position; A filter (6,12) characterized in that [Claim 2] the filter head (36) further includes indexing means (100) for guiding the pin (54) toward the inlet port (19) until the pin (54) reaches a configuration in axial alignment with the inlet port (19) upon installation of the filter housing (30) on the filter head (36). 2. The filter according to claim 1 . [Claim 3] The filter element (32) is fixed to rotate relative to the filter housing (30); the pin (54) being part of a ring (56) rotatably mounted on the top plate (42) of the filter element (32); 3. The filter according to claim 2 . [Claim 4] The filter element (32) is rotatably movable relative to the filter housing (30); the pin (54) being part of the top plate (42) of the filter element (32); 3. The filter according to claim 2 . [Claim 5] The pin (54) is disposed eccentrically with respect to the central axis. 5. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 6] The pin (54) is centrally located on the upper plate. 2. The filter according to claim 1 . [Claim 7] The pin (54) extends axially upward. 7. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 8] The closure element (52) is a ball or a plunger. 8. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 9] the filter head (36) defines an inlet conduit disposed upstream of the inlet port (19), a further outlet port, and a bypass extending between the inlet conduit (19) and the further outlet port; 9. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 10] the closure element (52) is arranged to close the bypass in the open position and to open the bypass as long as the closure element is in the closed position; 10. The filter according to claim 9. [Claim 11] the filter element (32) is rotatable within the filter housing (30) between a first configuration in which it is axially retained within the filter housing (30) and a second configuration in which it is axially removed from the filter housing (30). 11. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 12] The filter element (32) is attached to the filter housing (30) using a bayonet mounting system (70). 12. The filter according to claim 11 . [Claim 13] the closure element (52) is maintained in a closed position by gravity as a default and is automatically returned to the closed position by gravity when the pin is removed from the inlet port (19); 13. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluorine-containing polymer. [Claim 14] A vehicle (2) comprising a liquid filter (6, 12) according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

Claims

1. A vehicle liquid filter (6, 12), preferably a fuel filter, comprising: a filter head (36) defining an inlet port (19) and an outlet port (21); a filter housing (30) including a filter element (32) mounted below the filter head (36) and centered about a central axis (X38), the filter element including a filter medium (38), an upper plate (42) and a lower plate (40); Equipped with the filter housing (30) defines a first volume radially bounded about the periphery of the filter media (38) and in communication with the inlet port (19) for receiving a flow of liquid to be filtered, and a second volume radially bounded within the filter media (38) and in communication with the outlet port (21) for receiving a flow of filtered liquid; the filter head (36) comprising a closure element (52) movable between a closed position that closes the inlet port (19) and an open position that allows liquid to flow through the inlet port (19); the filter (6, 12) further comprising a pin (54) attached to the filter element (32) and configured to pass through an interior of the inlet port (19) to move the closure element (52) from the closed position to the open position; the filter head (36) delimiting an inlet conduit disposed upstream of the inlet port (19), a further outlet port, and a bypass extending between the inlet conduit (19) and the further outlet port; the closure element (52) is arranged such that in the open position it closes the bypass and the bypass is open as long as the closure element is in the closed position; A filter (6, 12) characterized in that

2. the filter head (36) further includes indexing means (100) for guiding the pin (54) toward the inlet port (19) until the pin (54) reaches a configuration in axial alignment with the inlet port (19) upon installation of the filter housing (30) on the filter head (36).

2. The filter of claim 1.

3. The filter element (32) is fixed for rotation with respect to the filter housing (30); the pin (54) being part of a ring (56) rotatably mounted on the top plate (42) of the filter element (32); 3. The filter of claim 2.

4. The filter element (32) is rotatably movable relative to the filter housing (30); the pin (54) being part of the top plate (42) of the filter element (32); 3. The filter of claim 2.

5. The pin (54) is disposed eccentrically with respect to the central axis.

5. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the filter is a fluororesin.

6. The pin (54) is centrally located on the top plate.

2. The filter of claim 1.

7. The pin (54) extends axially upward. A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The closure element (52) is a ball or a plunger. A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. the filter element (32) is rotatable within the filter housing (30) between a first configuration in which it is axially retained within the filter housing (30) and a second configuration in which it is axially removed from the filter housing (30). A filter according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The filter element (32) is attached to the filter housing (30) using a bayonet mounting system (70).

10. The filter of claim 9.

11. the closure element (52) is maintained in a closed position by gravity as a default and is automatically returned to the closed position by gravity when the pin is removed from the inlet port (19); A filter according to any one of the preceding claims.

12. A vehicle (2), characterized in that it includes a liquid filter (6, 12) according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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