CN109416006A - Moisture aggregator, fuel filter device, and manufacturing method of a moisture aggregator - Google Patents

Abstract

The fuel filter device (2) comprises a water trap (32). The moisture condenser has a frame (51) and a fiber layer (61). The fiber layer is a cylindrical roll of a band-shaped material. The strip-like material is wound over two turns. The tape-like material forms a thick fibrous layer. The fiber layer is fixed to the frame by a plurality of joints. A plurality of joints secure both the most upstream and the most downstream layers of the strip material to the frame. The housing (6) can be separated into a lid (21) and a bowl (22) for replacing the filter (31). The water trap is connected to the cup body by means of engagement portions (22a, 51 a).

Description

Moisture aggregator, fuel filter device, and manufacturing method of a moisture aggregator

Cross-Citation of Related Applications

This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-133710 filed on July 5, 2016 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-133711 filed on July 5, 2016, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. .

technical field

The disclosure in this specification relates to a moisture aggregator that aggregates moisture contained in fuel, a fuel filter device, and a method for manufacturing the moisture aggregator.

Background technique

Patent Documents 1 to 5 disclose several fuel filter devices. These fuel filtering devices include a filter that removes solid foreign matter generated by fuel filtering, and a moisture separator that aggregates and separates moisture contained in the fuel. At least a part of the performance of separating water from the fuel can be evaluated by the performance of aggregating water into large water droplets, that is, the performance of water agglutination. Large water droplets have the advantage that they are easily separated by known separation techniques such as gravity separation, impact separation, separation using a water repellent layer (water repellent layer). In Patent Documents 1 to 5, an attempt is made to use a moisture aggregator to aggregate moisture through a moisture aggregation layer. The prior art described in the prior art document is incorporated by reference into the present application as the description content of the technical element in the present specification.

prior art literature

Patent Literature

Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2010-223028

Patent Document 2: Specification of US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0102969

Patent Document 3: US Patent No. 8360251

Patent Document 4: US Patent No. 7887704

Patent Document 5: Specification of US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0284268

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In order to exhibit high moisture coagulation properties, a thick coagulation layer may be required in some cases. However, thick aggregated layers have several different challenges.

One view is that thick aggregated layers are difficult to hold firmly. In the fuel flow, it is necessary to maintain the thickness and large surface area of the thick aggregated layer while suppressing cracking and disintegration of the thick aggregated layer.

Another point of view is that it is difficult to manufacture a thicker single aggregated layer. A relatively thick single aggregated layer is difficult to process in a manufacturing process and to handle in a manufacturing process. Therefore, a thick single aggregated layer requires special attention in the manufacturing process.

In addition, when a filter for removing solid foreign matter and a moisture aggregator for aggregating moisture are included in the fuel filter device, there are some problems.

One view is that since the filter can degrade or fail, it would ideally be replaceable. In addition, since the performance of the moisture agglomerator is degraded or malfunctioned, it is sometimes required to be replaced. In addition, the replacement time of the filter and the replacement time of the moisture aggregator may differ in some cases. Therefore, ideally, the filter should be removed from the water aggregator and replaced.

Another point of view is that there is a situation in which a user or an operator attaches importance to environmental load or economical efficiency. In this case, it is required to provide a replacement method with a small environmental load, or an economically advantageous replacement method. For example, there is a need for an easy-to-understand structure that only replaces the filter.

In the above-mentioned viewpoints or other viewpoints not mentioned, further improvement of the moisture condenser and the fuel filter device is required.

An object of the present invention is to provide a moisture aggregator having a thick aggregation layer, a fuel filter device, and a method for manufacturing the moisture aggregator.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a moisture aggregator having a thick aggregation layer that is easy to manufacture, a fuel filter device, and a method for manufacturing the moisture aggregator.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a moisture collector, a fuel filter device, and a method for manufacturing a moisture collector capable of fixing a thick aggregation layer with a small number of members.

In addition, another object of the present invention is to provide a moisture aggregator that can be used in a life cycle different from that of a filter.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a fuel filter device capable of prompting only filter replacement.

The moisture aggregator provided by the present invention includes: a frame, which allows the fuel to flow in a radial direction; a fiber layer, which is a cylindrical fiber layer installed on the frame and used for aggregating moisture in the fuel, which comprises two or more circles of fibers. Thus, two or more layers of rolls of tape-like material are radially superimposed; and a plurality of joints that secure the fiber layers to the frame. In the moisture collector of the present invention, the fiber layer is provided by the roll body of the tape-like material. The material is arranged in two or more turns so as to overlap two or more layers in the radial direction. The thick fibrous layer is formed using the ribbon material. Also, because of the use of strip material, manufacturing advantages are obtained in terms of ease of handling and reduced waste.

The moisture aggregator provided by the present invention includes: a frame, which allows the fuel to flow in a radial direction; a fiber layer, which is a cylindrical fiber layer installed on the frame and used for condensing moisture in the fuel, which includes a fiber layer arranged in a radial direction. a roll of strip material at least partially overlapping two or more layers; and a plurality of joints that secure the fiber layers to the frame; wherein the plurality of joints have through joints that will be spaced from the frame A material that forms the final layer, configured with at least one intermediate layer, is bonded to the frame through the intermediate layer. The moisture collector of the present invention has a tubular fiber layer. The fiber layer is secured to the frame by a plurality of joints. Multiple joints provide reliable fixation. In addition, the plurality of junctions have penetrating junctions. The through-joint portion joins the material that forms the last layer, which is arranged spaced apart from the frame by at least one intermediate layer, to the frame through the intermediate layer. The through joint secures the final layer to the frame while maintaining the thick fiber layer. Therefore, breakage of the fiber layer due to fuel flow can be suppressed.

The present invention provides a fuel filter device comprising: the above-mentioned moisture aggregator; a filter for removing solid foreign matter from the fuel; and a housing for accommodating the moisture aggregator and the filter while defining and forming a fuel passage.

The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a moisture aggregator, wherein the moisture aggregator includes: a frame that allows fuel to flow in a radial direction; and a tubular fiber layer for aggregating moisture in the fuel; It includes: a winding process of forming a roll of the material by winding a strip-shaped material in which moisture in the fuel is condensed to at least partially overlap two or more layers inside or outside the frame; The layer is bonded to the frame; wherein the winding process has the step of disposing the last layer with at least one intermediate layer from the frame; and the bonding process has the step of bonding the material forming the last layer to the frame through the intermediate layer . In the manufacturing method of the moisture condenser of this invention, a strip-shaped material is wound so that it may overlap two or more layers at least partially. As a result, the last layer is arranged to be separated from the frame by at least one intermediate layer. In the bonding process, the material forming the final layer is bonded to the frame through the intermediate layer. According to this method, the fiber layer can be produced through a winding process. In addition, the fiber layer is securely fixed to the frame through the joining process.

In addition, the moisture aggregator of the present invention can aggregate moisture in the fuel. The moisture collector is housed in a housing forming the fuel passage together with a filter that removes solid foreign matter from the fuel. The moisture collector has a case connecting portion formed so as to be able to maintain the connected state with the case even in a state in which the filter is removed from the case. According to the moisture collector of the present invention, even if the filter is removed from the housing, the connected state between the moisture collector and the housing can be maintained by the housing connection portion. Even if the filter is removed, the moisture aggregator will remain. As a result, it is not necessary to replace the filter at the same time. Moisture collectors can be used in a different life cycle than filters.

The fuel filtering device of the present invention includes a moisture collector, a casing and a filter. Even if the filter is removed from the case, the fuel filter device can maintain the connection state between the moisture collector and the case by the case connection portion. The fuel filter unit can be shown as filter replacement only.

The various modes disclosed in this specification employ different technical means to achieve their respective objectives. The reference signs in parentheses described in the scope of the claims and the terms of the claims merely represent the corresponding relationship with the embodiments described later, and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The objects, features, and effects disclosed in this specification will become more apparent by referring to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a fuel supply device in the first embodiment;

Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the fuel filter device;

Fig. 3 is the longitudinal sectional view of the moisture condenser of the fuel filter device;

Figure 4 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a moisture condenser of the fuel filter device;

5 is a cross-sectional view showing a first fixing portion;

6 is a cross-sectional view showing a first fixing portion;

7 is a cross-sectional view showing a first fixing portion;

8 is a cross-sectional view showing a second fixing portion;

9 is a cross-sectional view showing a second fixing portion;

10 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification of the second fixing portion;

11 is a cross-sectional view of the fuel filter device in the second embodiment;

12 is an exploded view of the fuel filter device in the second embodiment;

13 is an exploded view of the fuel filter device in the third embodiment;

14 is an exploded view of the fuel filter device in the fourth embodiment;

15 is a transverse cross-sectional view of the moisture condenser in the fifth embodiment.

Detailed ways

The various embodiments will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In various embodiments, functionally and/or structurally corresponding parts and/or associated parts are marked with the same reference numerals, or with different reference numerals in the hundreds or more. For corresponding parts and/or associated parts, reference may be made to the descriptions in other embodiments.

first embodiment

<Fuel Supply Device>

A cross section of the fuel filter device 2 in the fuel supply device 1 mounted on the vehicle is shown in FIG. 1 . In the figure, the flow direction of the fuel is indicated by a thick arrow. The fuel supply device 1 supplies fuel from a fuel tank (TNK) 3 to an internal combustion engine (ENG) 4 as a fuel consumption device. An example of the internal combustion engine 4 is a diesel engine using light oil as fuel. The type of the internal combustion engine 4 is not limited. For example, internal combustion engines using various hydrocarbon fuels such as gasoline and biodiesel can be applied. The internal combustion engine 4 is used as a power source of the machine. For example, the internal combustion engine 4 provides a power source for driving the vehicle. The internal combustion engine 4 is provided with a high-pressure pump and a fuel injection valve as part of the fuel supply device 1 .

The fuel supply device 1 has a low-pressure pump for pumping the fuel in the fuel tank 3 . The low-pressure pump is provided between the fuel filter device 2 and the fuel tank 3 or between the fuel filter device 2 and the internal combustion engine 4 . In the illustrated example, the low-pressure pump is housed in the fuel tank 3 . The fuel pressurized by the low pressure pump is supplied to the fuel filter device 2 . The fuel filter device 2 filters the fuel. The fuel filtered by the fuel filter device 2 is supplied to the internal combustion engine 4 via a high-pressure pump and a fuel injection valve.

<Fuel filter device>

The fuel filter device 2 includes a housing 6 and a filter unit 7 . The housing 6 accommodates the filter unit 7 . The housing 6 has a fuel inlet 11 and a fuel outlet 12 . The housing 6 has a lid body 21 and a cup body 22 . The cover body 21 provides a holder for fixing the fuel filter device 2 . The retainer is used to fix the fuel filter device 2 to the vehicle. In order to replace the filter unit 7, the cover body 21 and the cup body 22 are separable. When the cup body 22 is removed from the lid body 21, the filter unit 7 is exposed, that is, it becomes a replaceable state. The case 6 is made of metal or resin. The cover body 21 is made of metal, for example, aluminum alloy. The cup body 22 is made of resin.

In FIG. 2 , a section of the fuel filter device 2 is shown. The housing 6 has an inlet channel 13 extending from the inlet 11 . The inlet channel 13 provides a portion of the dirty side region DS through which unfiltered fuel flows. The housing 6 has an outlet channel 14 extending from the outlet 12 . The outlet passage 14 provides a portion of the clean side region CS through which the filtered fuel flows. The housing 6 provides a fuel flow path that communicates the inlet 11 and the outlet 12 . The lid body 21 and the cup body 22 define a cavity as a fuel passage in the interior thereof. The lid body 21 and the cup body 22 define a space including the dirty side area DS and the clean side area CS. The dirty side area DS communicates with the inlet channel 13 . The clean-side region CS communicates with the outlet channel 14 .

The housing 6 is also a member that provides a container for housing the filter unit 7 . The housing 6 can be opened for removal of the filter unit. The cover body 21 and the cup body 22 are configured to be detachable. The cover body 21 provides a first housing portion in a fixed configuration. Cup 22 provides a removable second housing portion.

Between the lid body 21 and the cup body 22, a coupling mechanism 23 for detachably coupling the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 is provided. The connection mechanism 23 is provided by a screw mechanism including a female thread provided on the cover body 21 and a male thread provided on the cup body 22 . The connecting mechanism 23 may include a sealing member that provides sealing between the sealing cover 21 and the cup 22 .

The bottom of the cup body 22 is provided with a drain hole 24 and a drain plug 25 . The drain hole 24 and the drain plug 25 provide a drain mechanism for draining the accumulated water and foreign matter accumulated at the bottom of the cup body 22 .

The bottom of the cup body 22 is provided with a water level sensor 26 . When the water level at the bottom of the cup body 22 reaches the set water level, the water level sensor 26 will output a detection signal. The water level sensor 26 has a buoy 27 and a support column 28 . The support post 28 is configured to extend upwardly from the bottom of the cup body 22 . The buoy 27 can float along the support column 28 . The buoy 27 floats with the water level. For example, a magnetron switch is accommodated in the support column 28 . Permanent magnets are accommodated in the buoy 27 . Thus, when the buoy 27 reaches the preset height, the magnetic control switch will output a detection signal.

The filter unit 7 is detachably attached to the holder 6 . Filter unit 7, replaceable. The filter unit 7 is mounted on the open end of the cup body 22 . The cup body 22 with the filter unit 7 mounted thereon is inserted into the lid body 21 , and the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 are connected by the connecting mechanism 23 , so that the filter unit 7 is positioned in the correct position. When the filter unit 7 is in the correct position, it separates the dirty side area DS from the clean side area CS.

The filter unit 7 has basic elements for providing the basic function of the fuel filter device 2 and additional elements for providing additional functions. The basic element is the filter 31 that removes solid foreign matter by filtering the fuel. An additional element is a moisture separator that separates the moisture in the fuel. Moisture separators include: a coagulation stage that captures the moisture in the fuel, forms and enlarges the water droplets, and a separation stage that separates the water droplets from the fuel. The coagulation stage is provided by a moisture aggregator 32 with a fibrous layer that captures moisture. The separation stage is provided by a settling separation chamber that settles the water droplets. The sedimentation separation chamber is defined and formed in the casing 6 . On the other hand, the moisture separator is arranged in the dirty side region DS.

The filter 31 has a frame 41 . The frame 41 is a member that isolates the dirty side area DS and the clean side area CS when it is arranged between the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 . Furthermore, the frame 41 is also a member for defining a filter passage that allows fuel to flow from the dirty side area DS to the clean side area CS.

The frame 41 is also a member for supporting the element 42 . The element 42 is formed of a filter material for removing foreign matter in the fuel. The filter material forming element 42 is a fibrous product that may be referred to as paper. The filter media removes foreign matter by allowing the fuel to flow in the direction of its thickness. Element 42 is configured to traverse the filter channel. Element 42 for filtering the fuel flowing through the filter channel. The element 42 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. Element 42, comprising a plurality of cartridges formed from filter media. The plurality of cylinders are bundled into a cylindrical shape. The plurality of cartridges filter the fuel by flowing the fuel in the axial direction of the cylinder. Element 42 is an axial flow filter. In the illustrated example, the fuel flows from the lower end of the element 42 to the upper end.

The frame 41 has a cover portion 43 , a connection portion 44 , and a center pipe 45 . The cover portion 43 is connected to the element 42 to cover the outflow end of the element 42 . The radially outer edge of the cover portion 43 is in contact with the case provided by the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 in a sealed state.

The connecting portion 44 is connected to the wall surface of the casing 6 in a sealed manner. On the connecting portion 44, a lip seal serving as a sealing member is provided. The connecting portion 44 is positioned between the opening of the inlet channel 13 and the opening of the outlet channel 14 on the housing 6 . The connection part 44 is also a member which isolate|separates the dirty side area|region DS and the clean side area|region CS.

The central pipe 45 is a cylindrical member extending through the central portion of the element 42 in the axial direction. The central pipe 45 defines and forms an inlet passage extending axially from the radially inner side of the connecting portion 44 inside the central pipe 45 . The central pipe 45 is a passage member forming a fuel passage for passing the fuel before being filtered by the element 42 . The central pipe 45 has a connection pipe 46 connected to the moisture condenser 32 . The connecting pipe 46 may also be referred to as a first connecting portion, and is detachably connected to the moisture collector 32 to supply fuel to the moisture collector 32 . The connecting pipe 46 is provided on the outer side surface of the protruding portion of the central pipe 45 protruding from the element 42 . In addition, the central pipe 45 has an opening 47 at its top end. The central pipe 45, which is also an opening-defining member, defines an opening 47 as a fuel passage in the tank. The opening 47 is opened in the central part of the casing defined by the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 .

The filter unit 7 is held between the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 . The cover portion 43 is held between the connection portion 44 and the cover body 21 and between the outer edge of the cover portion 43 and the cup body 22 .

The moisture collector 32 is formed as a member having a cylindrical appearance. The moisture condenser 32 has the frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 . The frame 51 has a plurality of openings in the radial direction to allow the fuel to flow in the radial direction. The frame 51 supports the fiber layer 61 . The frame 51 may also be referred to as a cage holder or scroll. The frame 51 has an upper end plate 52 and a lower end plate 53 . The end plates 52, 53 are joined by snapping, gluing or welding. The frame 51 is made of resin. This resin is a thermoplastic resin.

The casing 6 and the moisture condenser 32 have a connecting mechanism for connecting the casing 6 and the moisture condenser 32 . The connection mechanism includes an engaging portion 22 a provided in the cup body 22 and an engaging portion 51 a provided on the frame 51 . The engaging portions 22a and 51a provide a snap-fit mechanism that can be engaged or disengaged by elastic deformation of the resin material. The engaging mechanism connects the housing 6 and the moisture collector 32 to keep the moisture collector 32 in the cup body 22 when the filter unit 7 is taken out from the housing 6 . The connection strength of the connection mechanism provided by the engaging portions 22 a and 51 a is stronger than the connection strength provided by the connection pipe 46 .

When the filter 31 is pulled upward from the cup body 22 , the engaging parts 22 a and 51 a maintain the connection state between the cup body 22 and the moisture aggregator 32 , and the connecting pipe 46 connects the filter 31 and the moisture aggregator 32 separation. This structure facilitates reuse of the moisture collector 32 and facilitates replacement of only the filter 31 . The moisture collector 32 is less likely to be clogged than the filter 31 . The moisture collector 32 is more durable than the filter 31 for long-term use. This structure can suppress costs due to replacement.

The fiber layer is cylindrical. The fiber layer 61 is held on the frame 51 . The fiber layer 61 is attached to the frame 51 . The fiber layer 61 is also called an aggregation layer. The fiber layer 61 provides a moisture aggregating member for aggregating moisture in the fuel. The fiber layer 61 captures and aggregates minute water droplets dispersed in the fuel. The fiber layer 61 traps moisture and enlarges the water droplets. The fiber layer 61 releases the agglomerated and enlarged water droplets into the fuel again, and causes them to settle in the cup body 22 . The fiber layer 61 is formed of fibers having physical and chemical properties suitable for capturing water droplets.

The fiber layer 61 provides voids larger than the filter material of the filter 31 . The filter 31 has smaller holes to remove the smallest foreign matter required. On the other hand, the fibrous layer 61 cannot remove the minimum required foreign matter. The fiber layer 61 has larger pores. In addition, the thickness of the fiber layer 61 is much larger than the thickness of the filter medium of the filter 31 in the flow direction. In addition, the fiber layer 61 is softer than the filter material of the filter 31 due to its higher porosity and thickness.

Regarding the fiber layer 61, Patent Documents 1-5 can be referred to. The disclosures of Patent Documents 1 to 5 are incorporated into this specification by reference. For example, the fiber layer 61 is a hydrophilic fiber such as rayon.

<Moisture Condenser>

3 and 4 are cross-sectional views showing the moisture condenser 32 . FIG. 3 shows a section along the line III-III in FIG. 4 .

FIG. 4 shows a cross section of line IV-IV in FIG. 3 . The frame 51 has a shape similar to that of a reel on which a long strip of material is taken up. The frame 51 has two end plates 52 , 53 . The end plates 52 and 53 are arranged to face each other. The frame 51 has a mandrel 54 arranged between the end plates 52 and 53 . The mandrel 54 is also the core for the fiber layer 61 . The mandrel 54 has a number of gaps to allow fuel to flow through the fiber layer 61 . The mandrel 54 provides a plurality of channels extending radially.

The end plate 52 is also referred to as an upper member. The end plate 52 is an annular plate. The end plate 52 has a cylindrical portion 52a. The cylindrical portion 52a is provided in the center of the end plate 52 . The cylindrical portion 52a is connected to the center pipe 45 by receiving the center pipe 45 . The cylindrical portion 52a defines an inlet formed to receive fuel from the central pipe 45 . The moisture collector 32 can be separated from the filter unit 7 by the cylindrical portion 52a. Therefore, only the filter 31 or only the moisture collector 32 can be replaced. The cylindrical portion 52a is also a part of the mandrel 54 .

End plate 52 provides annular flat surface 52b. The flat surface 52b is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 52a. The flat surface 52b provides a contact seal which prevents leakage between the end face of the fiber layer 61 and the end plate 52 by making contact with the end face of the fiber layer 61 . Between the flat surface 52b and the fiber layer 61, no bonding portion such as an adhesive or a re-curing layer is provided.

The end plate 53 is also referred to as a lower member. The end plate 52 and the end plate 53 are joined to form the frame 51 shown in the figure. The end plate 53 has a conical portion 53a in the center portion. The conical portion 53a provides a downwardly inclined surface facing downward while expanding radially outward. Downward sloping surfaces help create downward flow. The downward flow promotes the settling of the water droplets.

The end plate 53 has an annular flat surface 53b opposite the flat surface 52b. The flat surface 53b is located radially outside the conical portion 53a. The two planes 52b, 53b are opposed to each other in the up-down direction. The two flat surfaces 52b, 53b are opposed to each other in the width direction of the fiber layer 61 . The flat surface 53b provides a contact seal which prevents leakage between the end face of the fiber layer 61 and the end plate 53 by making contact with the end face of the fiber layer 61 . Between the flat surface 53b and the fiber layer 61, no bonding portion such as an adhesive or a re-curing layer is provided.

The flat surfaces 52b and 53b are opposed to both end surfaces of the fiber layer 61 . In other words, the fiber layer 61 has two end surfaces that are only in contact with the flat surfaces 52b, 53b.

The end plate 53 has a downward facing wall 53c extending downward at its outer edge. The downward facing wall 53c can promote the enlargement of the water droplets and the release of the water droplets into the fuel.

Furthermore, the end plate 53 has a plurality of ribs 55 . The rib 55 is plate-shaped. The plurality of ribs 55 are radially arranged. The plurality of ribs 55 are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Between the plurality of ribs 55, a plurality of channels extending in the radial direction are defined. The plurality of ribs 55 are provided by eight ribs including the rib 55a at the start of the winding and the rib 55b at the end of the winding. The plurality of ribs 55 are also part of the mandrel 54 .

The end plate 53 has a plurality of support portions 56 . The plurality of support portions 56 are distributed on the radially outer edges of the plurality of ribs 55 . The support portion 56 is a protrusion protruding radially outward. The plurality of support portions 56 are arranged apart from each other in the axial direction. The plurality of support portions 56 are arranged apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The radially outer surface of the support portion 56 is a curved surface. The radially outer surface of the support portion 56 is in contact with the inner surface of the fiber layer 61 . The plurality of support portions 56 provide contact surfaces for receiving and supporting the fiber layer 61 .

On the radially outer side of the frame 51, the fiber layer 61 is arranged. The fiber layer 61 is cylindrical. The fiber layer 61 corresponds to the plurality of ribs 55 and has a slightly polygonal cylindrical shape. The fiber layer 61 has an inner peripheral surface, an outer peripheral surface, and two end surfaces. The inner peripheral surface provides an inlet surface for fuel. The outer peripheral surface provides an exit surface for the fuel. The two end faces are abutted against the end plates 52 , 53 . Both end faces provide sealing surfaces.

The fiber layer 61 has a plurality of layers in the flow direction. The layers are in direct contact with each other. Each layer is formed from the same fibers. The fiber layer 61 is formed of a tape-shaped material 62 . The strip-shaped material 62 can be obtained by cutting a strip-shaped base material to a predetermined length, or by cutting from a square base material. Therefore, waste of material is reduced compared to the case where circular plates are cut from the base material. The material 62 is nonwoven fabric. Material 62 may be referred to as cotton. Material 62 has a fiber density much lower than that of filter 31 material. The material 62 has a softness that can be wrapped around the frame 51 .

The fiber layer 61 is arranged on the mandrel 54 . The fiber layer 61 is arranged radially outside the mandrel 54 . The material 62 has what may be referred to as a helical or swirl-like shape. The fiber layer 61 contains a cylindrical roll of tape material 62 . The fiber layer 61 may be provided by the roll body only. The fibrous layer 61 is provided by a stack of continuous strip material 62 . In addition to the roll of material 62, the fibrous layer 61 may have additional layers.

The material 62 is laminated on the mandrel 54 . The material 62 is arranged so as to at least partially overlap two or more layers in the radial direction. The material 62 is arranged in two or more turns so as to overlap two or more layers in the radial direction. The material 62 is arranged in more than three turns to form a three-layer overlap. The material 62 is laminated in two or more layers, making it possible to form a thick fiber layer 61 in the fuel passing direction.

The material 62 is arranged along an imaginary peripheral surface provided by the mandrel 54 . The material 62 wraps around the mandrel 54 more than two turns. The material 62 may also encircle the mandrel 54 more than three times. Two adjacent layers stacked in the fiber layer 61 are in direct contact. This mechanism makes it possible to form the thick fiber layer 61 .

Material 62 has end 63 and end 64 . The inner end 63 is the winding start end. The outer end 64 is the winding end end. The end part 63 and the end part 64 are arrange|positioned between the two ribs 55a, 55b adjacent to the circumferential direction. The material 62 has a shift portion from the inner layer to the outer layer between the two ribs 55a, 55b. The change portion is the portion where the material 62 is bent in a stepped shape. A plurality of changing parts are arranged collectively between the two ribs 55a and 55b. This configuration makes it possible for the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 to be approximately circular.

The frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 are joined at a plurality of joints 71 . The joint portion 71 is dotted on the inner surface or the outer surface of the fiber layer 61 . In other words, when the fiber layer 61 is viewed from the radially outer side, the joint portion 71 has a dot shape. The joint portion 71 is a re-solidified portion formed by melting the material of the frame 51, infiltrating the fiber layer 61, and solidifying again. In the joint portion 71, the frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 are inseparably joined together.

The plurality of joint portions 71 are distributed on the cylindrical outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 . The plurality of joint portions 71 are uniformly dispersed. The plurality of engaging portions 71 are dispersed in the axial and circumferential directions.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the plurality of engaging portions 71 include a plurality of engaging portions 71 provided apart from each other in the axial direction. In the figure, four engaging portions 71 arranged in the axial direction are shown. As shown in FIG. 4 , the plurality of engaging portions 71 include a plurality of engaging portions 71 that are provided apart from each other in the circumferential direction. In the figure, eight engaging portions 71 arranged in the circumferential direction are shown. The plurality of engaging portions 71 are arranged at equal intervals in the axial direction and the circumferential direction. In the illustrated example, the plurality of junctions 71 are arranged in a polkadots pattern similar to 4×8=32.

The plurality of joining portions 71 join the innermost layer (the innermost material 62 ) to the frame 51 . The joint 71 joins at least one layer to the frame 51 . The plurality of engaging portions 71 are arranged at the distal ends of the plurality of ribs 55 .

As shown in FIG. 4 , the plurality of engaging portions 71 have engaging portions 71a and engaging portions 71b. The joint portion 71 a is joined from the frame 51 to the frame 51 , where the first layer of the material 62 in the radial direction is formed. The engagement portion 71a is also referred to as an abutment engagement portion. The joint 71a joins the material 62 to the frame 51 near one end 63 . The joint portion 71 a joins the innermost layer to the frame 51 . The joint 71a fixes the layer located most upstream of the fuel flow to the frame 51 . On the first layer, a plurality of joint portions 71a are provided.

The joining portion 71b joins the material 62 that forms the final layer, which is arranged at least one intermediate layer from the frame, and is joined to the frame 51 through the intermediate layer. The engaging portion 71b is also referred to as a through engaging portion. The joint 71b joins the material 62 to the frame 51 near the other end 64 . The joint portion 71b joins the outermost layer to the frame 51 . The joint portion 71b joins the outermost layer to the frame 51 . The joint 71b will be the layer most downstream of the fuel flow, fixed to the frame 51 . The joint portion 71b is provided only in the vicinity of the end portion 64 where the winding of the material 62 ends.

The joint portion 71b may join a plurality of layers to the frame 51 . For example, the joining portion 71b may join all the layers to the frame 51 . The joint portion 71b fixes the plurality of layers to the frame 51 . The joint portion 71b fixes the entire fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 in the thickness direction of the fiber layer 61 . In other words, the joint 71b sews the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 . The joint 71b joins the three-layer material 62 to the frame 51 .

The engaging portion 71a is provided on the rib 55a where the winding starts. The engaging portion 71a is the initial engaging position. The engaging portion 71b is provided on the rib 55b where the winding is completed. The joint portion 71b is the final joint position after winding that forms the overlapping portion.

The plurality of joints 71 secure the material 62 to the frame 51 in the circumferential, axial and radial directions. The extension piece between the end portion 63 and the engaging portion 71a maintains the shape shown in the figure by virtue of its own rigidity. The extension piece between the end portion 64 and the engaging portion 71b maintains the shape shown in the figure by virtue of its own rigidity. When the fuel is flowing, ie in normal use, these extensions also maintain the shape as shown in contact with the adjacent layers.

The plurality of joints 71 scattered along the inner or outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 contribute to the formation of a reliable fixation. Also, the joint portion 71 as the re-solidified portion provides reliable fixation. The plurality of joint portions 71a can suppress the pressing of the fiber layer 61 on the upstream side of the fuel flow. On the other hand, the joint portion 71b can suppress the separation of the fiber layer 61 to the downstream side of the fuel flow. The fiber layer 61 provides sealing only by contacting the flat surfaces 52b, 53b on the end faces. Thus, a stable seal can be obtained independent of the adhesive thickness. As a result, reliable fixation and sealability to the fiber layer 61 can be achieved. This structure can reduce costs.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the engaging portions 22a and 51a provide a case connecting portion. The case connecting portion is formed so that the water collector 32 can maintain the connected state with the case 6 even when the filter 31 is removed from the case 6 . The replacement work includes a step of loosening the coupling mechanism 23 and a step of removing the cup body 22 from the lid body 21 . The operation of separating the lid body 21 and the cup body 22 in the coupling mechanism 23 is a turning operation. The connection state between the moisture collector 32 and the cup body 22 by the case connection portion can be released by an operation different from the rotation operation. The case connecting portion is released by an axial operation of pulling the water condenser 32 in the axial direction or an axial operation of pulling slightly obliquely while elastically deforming the resin material. Therefore, by operating the connection mechanism 23, the connection state of the case connection portion is not released.

Further, the replacement operation includes a step of pulling out the filter 31 from the inside of the cup body 22, a step of pulling out the moisture collector 32 from the inside of the cup body 22, and a step of replacing and reassembling. When the filter 31 is pulled in the axial direction, the housing connection portion is kept in the engaged state, and the connection state between the moisture collector 32 and the cup body 22 is kept. Therefore, even if the filter 31 is pulled out from the cup body 22 , the moisture collector 32 remains in the cup body 22 . The individual replacement of the filter 31 can thereby be facilitated. In addition, the inside of the cup body 22 is the dirty side region DS, and the upstream and downstream of the fiber layer 61 are also the dirty side region DS. Therefore, even if the connection pipe 46 is pulled out and a new filter 31 is inserted, it is possible to prevent foreign matter from entering the clean-side region CS.

The connecting pipe 46 and the cylindrical portion 52a are connecting portions that mechanically connect the filter 31 and the moisture collector 32 . Also, the connecting tube 46 and the cylindrical portion 52a are also fluid connecting portions that provide a fluid connection of the fuel passages to allow the fuel to flow through the fiber layer 61 . The case connection portion is formed so as to be able to maintain the connection state with the case 6 even in a state where the connection in the fluid connection portion is released.

<Manufacturing method>

The method of manufacturing the fuel filter device 2 includes: a step of forming the casing 6 ; a step of arranging the filter unit 7 in the casing 6 ; and a step of closing the casing 6 . The method of manufacturing the filter unit 7 includes: a step of assembling the filter 31 ; a step of assembling the moisture collector 32 ; and a step of connecting the filter 31 and the moisture collector 32 .

The method of replacing the filter unit 7 includes: a step of opening the casing 6 ; a step of taking out the old filter unit 7 ; a step of arranging a new filter unit 7 ; and a step of closing the casing 6 . When the filter 31 is replaced alone, it increases: the process of disassembling the old filter unit 7 into the filter 31 and the moisture aggregator 32; and the manufacturing of the new filter unit 7 by connecting the old moisture aggregator 32 to the new filter 31 process. The dismantling step may include a step of separating the filter 31 and the moisture collector 32 while maintaining the connected state of the moisture collector 32 and the cup body 22 . The dismantling process can be performed in the casing 6 simultaneously with the opening process of the casing 6 . The connection step can be performed in the casing 6 while maintaining the connection state between the moisture collector 32 and the cup body 22 . The connection process may be performed simultaneously with the closing process of the casing 6 .

The method of manufacturing the moisture collector 32 includes: a forming step of forming the frame 51 ; a mounting step of attaching the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 ; and a fixing step of fixing the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 . The forming process may include a step of molding the frame 51 with a resin material. The mounting process may be provided by a winding process of winding material 62 along frame 51 . The mounting process can also be provided by the process of mounting the frame 51 in the fiber layer 61 rolled from the material 62 . In this embodiment, the mounting process is provided by the winding process.

The installation process includes a stage of forming a seal between the fiber layer 61 and the frame 51 to allow the fuel to pass through the fiber layer 61 . The seal is formed by pressing the end surfaces of the tubular fiber layer 61 against the flat surfaces 52b, 53b. The sealing system is formed by pressing the longitudinal end surfaces of the material 62 against the flat surfaces 52b and 53b in the winding process. In the winding process, the material 62 is wound around the frame 51 while pressing the longitudinal end faces against the flat surfaces 52b and 53b.

The winding process is a process of winding the material 62 around the frame 51 . The winding process starts with winding on the rib 55a. Material 62 is wound from end 63 . When the end portion 64 is positioned at the predetermined position shown in the figure, the winding process ends.

The winding step is a step of winding the material 62 to at least partially overlap two or more layers. The winding process includes the first stage of winding the material 62 on the frame 51 only once. Thus, a first loop of material 62 is formed. The winding process further includes a second stage in which the material 62 is additionally wound around the frame 51 only once. Thus, a second loop of material 62 is formed. The winding process may include a third stage in which the material 62 is wound on the frame 51 by one additional turn. Thereby, a third turn of material 62 is formed. As a result, the fiber layer 61 is formed.

The winding process includes the initial stage of positioning the material 62 at the tip of the rib 55a. In the initial stage, the end 63 is positioned between the first rib 55a and the last rib 55b. In the initial stage, material 62 is further positioned on the tips of ribs 55a. In the initial stage, the material 62 is disposed over the rib 55a. Material 62 may also be disposed over the second rib 55 in the initial stage. After the initial stage, the above-mentioned first stage, second stage and third stage are performed.

The winding process includes the step of disposing the final layer from the frame 51 at least one intermediate layer. This process is provided by the third stage. The intermediate layer is provided by the first layer and the second layer.

In the fixing step, the fiber layer 61 is fixed to the frame 51 by forming a plurality of joint portions 71 . The fixing process is performed intermittently in the winding process. The fixing process includes a plurality of stages for forming each of the plurality of joint portions 71 , respectively. The securing process may include, after the material 62 is positioned over the rib 55a, an initial stage for forming the initial joint 71a. The securing process may also include an intermediate stage for forming the joint 71a after the material 62 is positioned over the second and subsequent ribs 55a.

The intermediate stage may be performed such that after positioning the material 62 on the plurality of ribs 55, the plurality of joints 71a are formed in sequence. The intermediate stage may be performed as a single stage of repeating the formation of a joint 71 on a plurality of ribs 55 after positioning the material 62 on one rib 55 . In addition, the intermediate stage can also be divided into a plurality of partial stages to be executed. In a partial stage, after the material 62 is disposed on a set of the plurality of ribs 55 , for example, three ribs 55 , the plurality of joints 71 a are formed on the plurality of ribs 55 . In the remaining part of the stage, after the material 62 is disposed on the remaining set of ribs 55 , for example, three ribs 55 , the plurality of joints 71 a are formed on these ribs 55 .

Figure 5 shows the first rib 55a. A support portion 56 is formed at the tip of the rib 55a. Before melting, the support portion 56 is slightly larger. The rib 55a has a volume capable of supplying the molten resin for fixing the single-layer material 62 .

Figure 6 shows the state when the material 62 is positioned at the tip of the rib 55a. During the winding process, the material 62 is positioned on the ribs 55a.

The fixing step includes a step of melting a part of the rib 55a. The fixing step further includes a step of pressing the material 62 . A part of the rib 55a is melted by being pressed against the high temperature member 57 . The material 62 is compressed by being squeezed by the member 57 . A part of the rib 55a may be melted by high energy supplied from the outside, for example, by laser irradiation, ultrasonic irradiation, electromagnetic wave irradiation, supply of hot air, or the like. A part of the rib 55a is deformed from the shape shown in FIG. 6 in the melting stage. This stage is a supply stage in which the fluid material is supplied between the frame 51 and the material 62 . The material is capable of imparting a degree of fluidity that penetrates into the material 62 .

The fixing step includes a step of positioning the fibers of the material 62 in the molten resin material. At this stage, the molten resin material penetrates and diffuses into the fiber layer. Also, a part of the fibers enter into the molten resin material. This stage is a stage in which the fluid material is mixed with the material 62 .

The fixing step further includes a step of re-solidifying the melted resin material. This stage is a stage in which the flowability of the flowable material is reduced. The fluidity of the material is reduced to such a low level that the material 62 is fixed to the frame 51 .

FIG. 7 shows an example of the engaging portion 71 . The joint portion 71 is a re-cured resin block. The joint 71 allows the fibers of the material 62 to enter the inside of the resin block. The shape of the engaging portion 71 is different from the shape of the rib 55a. The shape of the rib 55 a is changed to an irregular block shape of the engaging portion 71 . The surface of the joint portion 71 has an irregular surface along with the flow. The shape of the engaging portion 71 may also be referred to as a rod shape or a column shape extending radially outward from the distal end of the support portion 56 . In addition, the material 62 may be slightly dented and deformed due to shrinkage during resolidification of the joint portion 71 or pressure applied from the outside to melt the rib 55a. For example, the thickness of the material 62 may decrease slightly around the joint 71 .

As described above, through the first stage of the winding process, the innermost layer of the material 62 is disposed on the frame 51 . Through the fixing step, a plurality of joint portions 71a are formed. This securing process provides an adjoining joining step that only radially joins the first layer to the frame 51 . As a result, the innermost layer of the material 62 , that is, the most upstream layer is firmly fixed to the frame 51 . Next, the winding process proceeds to the first stage, the second stage and the third stage. The material 62 is stacked on the last rib 55b every time the stage of the winding process is advanced.

Figure 8 shows the last rib 55b. A support portion 56 is formed at the tip of the rib 55b. The rib 55b has a volume capable of supplying molten resin for fixing the three-layer material 62 . The frame 51 corresponds to the number of layers of material 62 left thereon, or the thickness of the fiber layers left thereon. When the material 62 of the third layer is positioned on the rib 55b at the end of the winding, the final partial stage of the fixing process is performed. In the final partial stage, the last rib 55b is melted and solidified again.

FIG. 9 shows an example of the engagement portion 71b on the rib 55b at the end of winding. Through the fixing step, the ribs 55b are melted to join at least the outermost layer of the material 62 forming the plurality of layers. The rib 55b is melted for bonding with the plurality of layers. The rib 55b is melted for bonding with all layers. The joint portion 71b fixes the fiber layer 61 formed of a plurality of layers. It can also be said that the fiber layer 61 is sewn by the joint portion 71b. The three-layer material 62 is greatly compressed by the member 57 to form the concave portion 66 . This process provides a through-bonding process of bonding the last layer in the radial direction to the frame 51 through the intermediate layer.

On one rib 55, a plurality of support portions 56 are provided in the axial direction. For example, a plurality of support portions 56 are provided in the axial direction on the first rib 55a. For another example, on the last rib 55b, a plurality of support parts 56 are provided in the axial direction. Therefore, a plurality of engaging portions 71a are formed on the rib 55a in the axial direction. On the other hand, a plurality of last engaging portions 71b are formed on the rib 55b. These plurality of last joints 71b fix the end 64 of the winding of the material 62 to the frame 51 . Since the end portion 64 is located on the most downstream side, the joint portion 71b fixes the entire thickness direction of the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 .

FIG. 10 shows a modification of the engaging portion 71b. When the joint portion 71b is formed from the rib 55b, the thick three-layer material 63 is laminated around the rib 55b. The joint 71b may not completely penetrate the three-layer material 62 .

<action>

Returning to Figure 2, the flow of fuel is represented by arrows. The fuel supplied from the inlet 11 passes through the water condenser 32 , passes through the filter 31 , and flows out from the outlet 12 . The water droplets flowing out from the water condenser 32 settle and sink into the cup body 22 due to their own weight. On the other hand, the fuel flows upward in the cup 22 and into the filter 31 . Fuel flowing through filter 31 reaches outlet 12 .

The water droplets that sink into the cup body 22 accumulate at the bottom of the cup body 22 . In the figure, the water droplets WD and the water surface WL are schematically shown, wherein the water surface WL is the boundary between the water and the fuel. The water level sensor 26 outputs a detection signal when the buoy 27 floats as the water surface WL rises. The heartbeat alerts the operator. When the operator releases the drain plug 25, the water is drained.

The filter 31 is endowed with the capability to remove solid foreign matter of the desired size in the fuel filter device 2 . The filter 31 is designed to remove fine solid foreign matter so that the high-pressure pump and the like can maintain performance for a long time. On the other hand, the fiber layer 61 provided in the moisture collector 32 cannot remove the above-mentioned expected solid foreign matter. This is because the fiber layer 61 has larger pores than the filter 31 . The fiber layer 61 is designed to capture and aggregate moisture.

The fuel flows from the inner surface of the fiber layer 61 to the outer surface. The joint portion 71a positions the inner peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 at a predetermined position against the pressure of the fuel. The joint portion 71b resists the pressure of the fuel, and positions the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61, for example, the end portion 64, at a predetermined position. Therefore, even if the fuel flows through the inside of the fiber layer 61, the cracking and decomposition of the fiber layer 61 can be suppressed.

The moisture contained in the fuel is captured in the fiber layer 61 by the fiber layer, and aggregates into large water droplets. The water droplets are again released into the fuel from the outer surface of the fiber layer 61 .

<Effect>

According to the above-described embodiments, various advantages can be provided by the plurality of characteristic structures each independently available. The fiber layer 61 can provide the moisture aggregator 32 with a thick cohesive layer, and the fuel filter device 2 . The fiber layer 61 is provided by a cylindrical roll body in which the tape-shaped material 62 is wound twice or more. Therefore, the thick fiber layer 61 can be formed from the tape-like material 62 which is easy to handle. As a result, the moisture aggregator 32 having a thick aggregation layer that is easy to manufacture, the filter unit 7 including the moisture aggregator 32 , and the fuel filter device 2 can be provided.

The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the frame 51 by a plurality of joints 71 . The plurality of joints 71 can provide reliable fixation. In addition, the plurality of junctions 71 are dispersedly arranged. The plurality of joint portions 71 are integrally formed with the fibers of the fiber layer 61 . Therefore, a reliable fixation can be formed.

The plurality of joint portions 71 include: joint portions 71 a that fix the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 at the inner peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 ; and joint portions 71 b that fix the fiber layer 61 to the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 Frame 51. The engaging portion 71b provides a through engaging portion. The material forming the final layer is bonded to the frame 51 through the intermediate layer through the joint. The through joints fix the position of the last layer while maintaining the thick fiber layer 61 . Therefore, breakage of the fiber layer 61 due to fuel flow can be suppressed.

The fiber layer 61 , both of which is fixed to the frame 51 on its inner peripheral surface and its outer peripheral surface. The joint portion 71 a can suppress the pressing from the inner peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 . On the other hand, the joint portion 71b can suppress the separation from the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 . In other words, the joint portion 71a suppresses the pressing of the fiber layer 61 on the upstream side of the fuel flow. On the other hand, the joint portion 71b suppresses the separation of the fiber layer 61 to the downstream side of the fuel flow. Thereby, the moisture collector 32 capable of fixing a thick aggregation layer, the filter unit 7 including the moisture collector 32, and the fuel filter device 2 can be provided with a small number of parts.

According to the manufacturing method of the moisture aggregator 32, the strip-shaped material is wound so as to overlap two or more layers at least partially. The last layer is configured to separate at least one intermediate layer from the frame 51 . In the bonding process, the material forming the last layer is bonded to the frame 51 through the intermediate layer. According to this method, the fiber layer 61 can be produced by a winding process. Also, through the bonding process, the fiber layer 61 can be reliably fixed to the frame. In the joining process, the fiber layer 61 is fixed to the frame 51 while maintaining the position of the last layer. Therefore, the thick fiber layer 61 is maintained.

Second Embodiment

This embodiment is a modification of the form based on the previous embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the moisture collector 32 is provided in the dirty side region DS. Alternatively, the moisture collector can also be arranged in the clean-side region CS.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 , the fuel filter device 2 has a filter 231 for removing solid foreign matter. The filter 231 defines and divides the interior of the housing 6 into a dirty side area DS and a clean side area CS. The filter 231 has a pleated cylindrical filter medium. The filter 231 has a sealing member such as an O-ring for preventing direct communication between the dirty side region DS and the clean side region CS.

The moisture collector 232 is arranged in the clean side region CS. In other words, the moisture collector 232 is arranged downstream of the filter 231 . The moisture collector 232 is arranged radially inward of the filter 231 . The moisture condenser 232 has a frame 51 and a fiber layer 61 fixed to the frame 51 . The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the frame 51 by a plurality of joints 71 . The fiber layer 61 provides a moisture coagulation layer. The moisture condenser 232 is connected to the cup body 22 by the engaging parts 22a and 51a. In the present embodiment, the engaging parts 22a and 51a can also promote the reuse of the moisture collector 232 .

In the present embodiment, the fuel flows in the radial direction from the outer peripheral surface of the tubular fiber layer 61 to the inner peripheral surface. Since the fiber layer 61 is supported by the inner frame 51 , the pressure generated by the flow of the fuel acts to compress the fiber layer 61 . On the other hand, the plurality of joints 71 extending in the thickness direction of the fiber layer 61 from the frame 51 serve to maintain the thickness of the fiber layer 61 . Therefore, also in this embodiment, the thick fiber layer 61 can be held.

The fuel filter device 2 has the moisture separation layer 233 . The moisture separation layer 233 is arranged on the downstream side of the moisture condenser 232 . The moisture separation layer 233 is arranged between the moisture condenser 232 and the outlet 12 . Between the moisture aggregator 232 and the moisture separation layer 233, a cylindrical cavity for precipitating water droplets is defined. The moisture separation layer 233 suppresses the passage of water droplets and promotes the settling of water droplets. The moisture separation layer 233 is provided by a wire mesh having properties that may be referred to as water repellency, or hydrophobicity.

The water separation layer 233 is connected to the water condenser 232 via the connection mechanism 234 . The linking mechanism 234 is provided by a snap-fit mechanism. The connection mechanism 234 makes it possible to take out the filter 231 separately while maintaining the state in which the water separation layer 233 is connected to the water aggregator 232 . Therefore, the connection mechanism 234 can promote the reuse of the moisture separation layer 233 .

Third Embodiment

This embodiment is a modification of the form based on the previous embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the moisture separation layer 233 is connected to the moisture condenser 232 . Alternatively, the moisture separation layer may also be attached to the filter 231 .

As shown in FIG. 13 , the moisture separation layer 333 is connected to the filter 231 by a connection mechanism 334 . According to this structure, the reuse of the moisture condenser 232 can be promoted. On the other hand, replacement of the filter 231 and the moisture separation layer 333 can be facilitated.

Fourth Embodiment

This embodiment is a modification of the form based on the previous embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the moisture separation layer 233 is connected to the filter 231 or the moisture collector 232 . Alternatively, the moisture separation layer may be independent.

As shown in FIG. 14 , the moisture separation layer 433 does not have a connecting mechanism. In this structure, the moisture separation layer 433 is left on the moisture condenser 232 by its own weight. However, the operator can easily remove the moisture separation layer 433 from the moisture condenser 232 . Therefore, the selection of replacement and reuse of the moisture separation layer 433 can be determined by the operator.

Fifth Embodiment

This embodiment is a modification of the form based on the previous embodiment. In the above-described embodiment, the material 62 is wound around the outer side of the frame 51 . Alternatively, the material 62 can also be wound on the inside of the frame 51 .

As shown in FIG. 15 , the moisture condenser 532 has the frame 51 . The moisture aggregator 532 may be used as the moisture aggregator 32, 232 in the previous embodiment. The frame 51 has a plurality of ribs 55 protruding radially inward. The frame 51 is arranged radially outside the fiber layer 61 . The plurality of support portions 56 are adjacent to the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 .

The strip-shaped material 62 is wound from the inside in an imaginary cylindrical cavity defined by the plurality of ribs 55 . In the manufacturing method, the strip-shaped material 62 is arranged in the inner cavity of the frame 51 in order from the end portion 63 . The end 64 is positioned beyond the end 63 in a more coiled overlapping position. The strip-shaped material 62 overlaps from the radially outer side to the radially inner side. In the present embodiment, the belt-shaped material 62 is also seamed in the manufacturing method. In the present embodiment, the thick fiber layer 61 may also be formed of the tape-like material 62 that is wound in an overlapping manner.

The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the frame 51 by a plurality of joints 71 . The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the first rib 55 and the support portion 56 through the joint portion 71a. The joint portion 71 a fixes a layer corresponding to one piece of the material 62 . In other words, the joint portion 71a fixes the outermost layer. Another view is that the junction 71a fixes the layer most upstream of the fuel flow. The moisture collector 532 has a plurality of joints 71a for fixing the first layer. The plurality of engaging portions 71a are distributed in the circumferential direction.

The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the last rib 55 by the joint 71b. The bonding portion 71b fixes a plurality of layers corresponding to the plurality of sheets of material 62 . In other words, the joint portion 71b fixes the innermost layer. Another view is that the junction 71b is fixed to the layer most downstream of the fuel flow. The moisture collector 532 has a plurality of joints 71b for fixing the last layer. The plurality of engaging portions 71b are distributed in the circumferential direction.

The fiber layer 61 is fixed to the several ribs 55 by the joints 71c. The joint portion 71c fixes a plurality of layers. The number of layers fixed by the joint portion 71c is between the number of layers fixed by the joint portion 71a and the number of layers fixed by the joint portion 71b. In the illustrated example, the joint portion 71b fixes two layers. In other words, the junction 71c fixes the layer in the middle of the fuel flow. The moisture collector 532 has a plurality of joint portions 71c. The plurality of engaging portions 71c are distributed in the circumferential direction. The plurality of engaging portions 71c are also referred to as intermediate engaging portions. The plurality of joints 71c reinforce the thick fiber layer 61 inside.

The plurality of joint portions 71 a securely fix the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 on the radially outer side of the fiber layer 61 . The plurality of joint portions 71 a suppress the pressing from the radially outer side to the inner side of the fiber layer 61 . The plurality of joint portions 71 b are radially inward of the fiber layer 61 and securely fix the fiber layer 61 to the frame 51 . The plurality of joint portions 71b can suppress the disassembly to the inner peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61, in other words, the disassembly to the radially inner side of the most downstream layer can be suppressed.

In the present embodiment, the thick fiber layer 61 may also be formed of a tape-like material 62 that is easy to handle. In the present embodiment, the thick fiber layer 61 can also be securely fixed to the frame 51 by the plurality of joints 71 . In addition, the plurality of joint portions 71a can suppress the pressing of the fiber layer 61 from the upstream side of the fuel flow. The plurality of joint portions 71b can suppress separation of the fiber layer 61 to the downstream side of the fuel flow.

Other implementations

The inventive content of this specification is not limited to the illustrated embodiments. The summary of the invention includes the exemplified embodiments and modified embodiments based on them by those skilled in the art. For example, the inventive summary is not limited to the combinations of components and/or elements disclosed in the embodiments. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The invention may be implemented in various combinations. The summary of the invention may also have additional parts that can be added to the embodiments. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The embodiments in which the components and/or elements are omitted in the embodiments are also included. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Also included are substitutions or combinations of components and/or elements between one embodiment and other embodiments. The disclosed technical scope is not limited to the description of the embodiments. A plurality of disclosed technical scopes should be determined by the description of the claims, and should be understood to include all the changes within the scope and meaning equivalent to the description of the claims.

In the above-described embodiment, a positive pressure system in which the fuel filter device 2 is provided downstream of the low pressure pump is exemplified. Alternatively, a negative pressure system in which the fuel filter device 2 is provided upstream of the low-pressure pump can also be applied. In the above-described embodiment, the filter 31 has the honeycomb-type element 42 . Instead, various types of filter media such as chrysanthemum type and scroll type can be used.

In the above embodiment, the housing 6 can be divided into two parts, the cover body 21 and the cup body 22 . Alternatively, the housing 6 may be arranged to be divided into three parts. Moreover, you may arrange|position so that only the member corresponding to a cover body may be isolate|separated. In either structure, the filter unit 7 is accommodated in the housing 6 in a replaceable manner.

In the above-described embodiment, the moisture aggregator includes the star-shaped frame 51 with the radial ribs 55 . Instead, moisture aggregators can use cages, spirals, and other shapes of frames. In addition, the frame 51 may have various surface shapes such as concentric stepped surfaces, multiple protrusions, etc., instead of the flat surfaces 52b and 53b, in order to ensure reliable contact between the two end surfaces of the fiber layer 61 . In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 is exposed on the radially outer surface of the moisture collector. Instead, a net-shaped or column-shaped protective member may be provided on the outer side of the outer peripheral surface of the fiber layer 61 . Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the ribs 55 are melted by one layer of material 62 or three layers of material. Instead, needles for piercing the material 62 may be provided on the ribs 55a, 55b. Material 62 may be secured by needles.

In the above-described embodiment, the fiber layer 61 is formed by winding the tape-like material 62 several times. Instead, the number of winding turns of the tape-like material 62 may be set to more than one turn in order to obtain the fiber layer 61 of the desired thickness.

In the above-described embodiment, the joint portion 71 is formed by melting the resin material that forms the frame 51 . Instead, when the fibers forming the fiber layer 61 are meltable, the joint portion 71 may be formed by melting the fiber layer 61 . In addition, the joint portion 71 may be formed by supplying a fluid adhesive between the frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 and curing it. Even in this case, it is possible to provide a reliable fixation that can withstand fuel flow and pressure differences by means of the plurality of joints 71 .

In the above-described embodiment, the engagement portion 71a is provided between the first layer of the strip material 62 and the plurality of ribs 55, and the engagement portion 71b is provided between the third layer of the strip material 62 and the ribs 55b. Alternatively, only the first engaging portion 71a and the last engaging portion 71b may be provided. Further, only a part of the plurality of engaging portions 71a may be provided. In addition, a part of the plurality of junctions 71a may be the same as the junctions 71b and may be junctions passing through a plurality of layers.

In the above-described embodiment, sealing is provided by bringing the two end faces of the fiber layer 61 into contact with the flat surfaces 52b, 53b. Alternatively, the frame 51 may also be bonded to the fiber layer 61 to provide sealing. For example, an adhesive may be disposed between the frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 . For example, between the frame 51 and the fiber layer 61 , a welded portion that melts and resolidifies the resin material forming the frame 51 may be provided.

In the above-described embodiment, the connecting portion provided by the engaging portions 22a, 51a is a snap-fit mechanism. Instead, it is also possible to provide a coupling mechanism utilizing a thread. In addition, the moisture collector 32 and the cup body 22 may be permanently connected. For example, the frame 51 of the moisture condensable condenser 32 is welded or bonded to the cup body 22 . In the above-described embodiment, the connection portion provided by the connection tube 46 and the cylindrical portion 52a is a fluid connection with sealing performance, and the fluid connection is provided by the insertion relationship between the tube and the tube. Instead, sealing members such as O-rings and lip seals may be provided. In addition, screw connection can also be used together. And, it can also be provided by the axial pressing between the end faces, or the pressing between the two members.

Claims (20)

1. A moisture agglomerator, comprising:

a frame (51) that allows fuel to flow in a radial direction;

a fiber layer (61) which is a cylindrical fiber layer that is attached to the frame and that aggregates moisture in the fuel, and which includes a roll of a band-shaped material (62) that is arranged in two or more turns so as to overlap two or more layers in the radial direction; and

a plurality of joints (71) securing the fibrous layer to the frame.

2. A moisture agglomerator, comprising:

a frame (51) that allows fuel to flow in a radial direction;

a fiber layer (61) which is a cylindrical fiber layer that is attached to the frame and aggregates moisture in the fuel, and which includes a roll body of a band-shaped material (62) that is arranged so as to at least partially overlap two or more layers in the radial direction; and

a plurality of joints (71) securing the fibrous layers to the frame; wherein,

the plurality of joints have through joints (71b) that join the material forming the last layer, which is arranged apart from the frame by at least one intermediate layer, to the frame through the intermediate layer.

3. The moisture agglomerator of claim 2, wherein the material is configured in two or more turns so as to overlap two or more layers in the radial direction.

4. A moisture trap according to claim 2 or 3, wherein a plurality of said junctions further have,

an abutting joint portion (71a) that joins the material forming a first layer in the radial direction from the frame to the frame.

5. A water coalescer according to claim 4,

the material having one end (63) and another end (64) in the length direction;

said abutment joint (71a) joining said material to said frame in the vicinity of said one end (63);

the through-joint (71b) joins the material to the frame in the vicinity of the other end (64).

6. A water trap according to any of claims 1-5,

the frame has a plurality of support portions (56) that are disposed radially inside or radially outside the fiber layer and adjacent to the inner or outer circumferential surface of the fiber layer;

the plurality of engagement portions are provided on the plurality of support portions, respectively.

7. A water trap according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein a plurality of said junctions are arranged circumferentially and axially apart from each other.

8. A water trap according to any of claims 1-7,

the frame has a plane (52b, 53b) opposite to both end faces of the fiber layer,

the fibrous layer has two end faces that are in contact with only the plane.

9. A fuel filtration device, comprising:

a water coalescer (32, 232, 532) according to any of claims 1-8;

a filter (31, 231) that removes solid foreign matter from the fuel; and

a housing (6) defining a fuel passage and housing the moisture trap and the filter.

10. The fuel filtration device of claim 9, further comprising a moisture separation layer (233, 333, 433) disposed downstream of the moisture trap to prevent passage of water droplets.

11. A method for manufacturing a water condenser,

the moisture agglomerator includes: a frame (51) that allows fuel to flow in a radial direction; and a cylindrical fiber layer for aggregating moisture in the fuel;

the manufacturing method of the water collector comprises the following steps:

a winding step of winding a belt-like material (62) in which moisture in fuel is condensed, into a roll body in which at least two layers are partially overlapped, on the inside or outside of the frame; and

a bonding step of bonding the fiber layer to the frame; wherein

The winding step includes a step of disposing a last layer from the frame with at least one intermediate layer interposed therebetween;

the bonding process has a step of bonding the material forming the last layer to the frame through the intermediate layer.

12. A method of making a water collector according to claim 11, wherein said bonding step comprises:

an abutting joining step of joining only the first layer in the radial direction to the frame; and

the radially last layer is bonded to the frame through the intermediate layer throughout the bonding step.

13. A method of making a water agglomerator according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising,

forming a flat surface (52b, 53b) on the frame, the flat surface facing both end surfaces of the fiber layer;

in the winding step, the material is wound while bringing a longitudinal end surface extending in the longitudinal direction into contact with the flat surface.

14. A moisture agglomerator, it takes in the body (6) forming fuel channel together with filter (31) removing the solid foreign matter from the fuel, in order to make the moisture in the fuel agglomerate; wherein,

the moisture condenser includes a housing coupling portion (51a) formed so as to be able to maintain a coupled state with the housing even in a state where the filter is removed from the housing.

15. The moisture agglomerator of claim 14, comprising:

a frame (51) that allows fuel to flow in a radial direction; and

a fiber layer (61) attached to the frame to aggregate moisture in the fuel; wherein

The housing coupling portion is provided on the frame.

16. The moisture coalescer according to claim 14 or 15, further comprising a fluid junction (52a) providing a junction of fuel channels for fuel flow into the moisture coalescer;

the housing connecting portion is formed so as to be able to maintain a connected state with the housing even in a state where the connection in the fluid connecting portion is released.

17. A moisture trap according to any of claims 14-16, wherein the housing has a lid and a cup detachably joined by a joining mechanism (23);

the shell coupling portion may be coupled with the cup body.

18. A water trap according to claim 17, wherein the housing coupling portion is configured to be released from coupling with the cup body by an operation different from an operation of separating the lid body from the cup body on the coupling mechanism.

19. A fuel filtration device, comprising:

the moisture agglomerator of any one of claims 14 to 18, the housing, and the filter.

20. The fuel filtration device of claim 19, further comprising a moisture separation layer (233, 333, 433) disposed downstream of the moisture trap to inhibit passage of water droplets.