GB2551798A

GB2551798A - Apparatus and method for forming a filter head

Info

Publication number: GB2551798A
Application number: GB1611422.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Otageri Sangamesh; Bangalore Panneerselvam Mohan; Aragbatagangapa Eswarapa Suresh
Original assignee: Mann and Hummel GmbH
Current assignee: Mann and Hummel GmbH
Priority date: 2016-06-30
Filing date: 2016-06-30
Publication date: 2018-01-03
Anticipated expiration: 2036-06-30
Also published as: GB201611422D0; GB2551798B

Abstract

An apparatus (10) for forming a filter head comprises a plurality of fluid conduits (18a, 18b, 20a, 20b) each having an open end (22) for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit. At least one of the fluid conduits is formed as a blind hole. The apparatus may be used to manufacture a filter head by fluidly connecting the at least one fluid conduit formed as a blind hole to another of the plurality of fluid conduits by removing a removable region of the apparatus and fluidly sealing at least one of the open ends. Also disclosed is a filter head for attachment of at least two filter units (26, Fig 11), characterised by a fluid pathway. The filter head may be used in a system such as a motor vehicle for filtering engine oil.

Description

(54) Title of the Invention: Apparatus and method for forming a filter head Abstract Title: Filter head (57) An apparatus (10) for forming a filter head comprises a plurality of fluid conduits (18a, 18b, 20a, 20b) each having an open end (22) for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit. At least one of the fluid conduits is formed as a blind hole. The apparatus may be used to manufacture a filter head by fluidly connecting the at least one fluid conduit formed as a blind hole to another of the plurality of fluid conduits by removing a removable region of the apparatus and fluidly sealing at least one of the open ends. Also disclosed is a filter head for attachment of at least two filter units (26, Fig 11), characterised by a fluid pathway. The filter head may be used in a system such as a motor vehicle for filtering engine oil.

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Apparatus and method for forming a filter head

TECHNICAL FIELD

Aspects of the invention relate to apparatus and a method for forming a filter head. Further aspects of the invention relate to a filter head particularly, but not necessarily, for use in a system for filtering engine oil.

BACKGROUND

Spin-on filters are well known for removing contaminant particles from a lubricating oil circuit of internal combustion engines. The removal of contaminant particles is necessary as engines typically require a constant supply of carefully filtered engine oil to maintain optimum performance. Moreover, inadequately filtered lubricant may increase the risk of premature wear or damage to the engine and, in the worst cases, may result in engine failure. The typical principle of operation of a spin-on filter is that a housing containing a filter media, e.g. cotton waste, is removably attached to a filter head. Pressurised liquid is supplied from the filter head to the housing, wherein the liquid passes through the filter media such that contaminant particles suspended in the liquid are retained therein. Once filtered, the liquid is returned to the filter head and, subsequently, the engine. Contaminants accumulate within the filter media until it is necessary that the housing is detached from the filter head and replaced.

Appropriate selection of the filter media is key to optimise the performance of a spin-on filter. If the filter media is overly sensitive, contaminant particles may clog the filter media, resulting in contaminated liquid being forced to bypass the filter media to be returned to the engine unfiltered. Conversely, if the filter media is not sensitive enough, contaminant particles will pass therethrough and the liquid will be returned to the engine unfiltered.

It is an object of embodiments of the invention to at least mitigate one or more of the problems of the prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided apparatus for forming a filter head, the apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit, wherein at least one of the fluid conduits is formed as a blind hole. Each of the fluid conduits may have an open end configured for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of each of the respective fluid conduit. The arrangement may offer multiple possible configurations for users by modification of a single part. The multiple options afforded by a modifiable single part may reduce the cost of manufacturing multiple filter heads, which in turn may reduce the cost of the filter head to the user.

Preferably, a first pair of the plurality of fluid conduits may each at least partially extend along a first longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, a second pair of the plurality of fluid conduits may each at least partially extend along a second longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis may be substantially parallel to one another.

In certain embodiments, the one of the plurality of fluid conduits may at least partially extend along a third longitudinal axis, the third longitudinal axis may be offset from either of the first or second longitudinal axes, or both, by an angle greater than zero degrees. Optionally, the third longitudinal axis may be offset from either of the first or second longitudinal axes, or both, by an angle between ten and eighty degrees.

One or more of the open ends may each be configured for receiving a closure member to fluidly seal the one or more open ends. One or more of the open ends may be configured for receiving a closure member each incorporating a screw thread.

In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of fluid conduits may each have a first opening, in addition to the respective open end, for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out the respective fluid conduit. At least one of the open ends may be on a first side of the apparatus and/or another of the open ends may on a second side of the apparatus. The first side may be an opposite side of the apparatus to the second side.

Preferably, the apparatus is a single piece. The apparatus may be moulded as a single piece.

In certain embodiments, the plurality of fluid conduits may comprise one or more of a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit and a fourth fluid conduit. The first and second fluid conduits may be formed as blind holes. The third and fourth fluid conduits may each have a first opening, in addition to the respective open end, for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit. Additionally or alternatively, the plurality of fluid conduits may further comprise a fifth fluid conduit and/or a sixth fluid conduit. The fifth and/or sixth fluid conduits may be formed as blind holes.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a filter head for attachment of at least two filter units, the filter head having a fluid pathway configured to direct fluid through the two or more filter units in series. The filter head may be formed from/using the apparatus as described above.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a vehicle comprising the filter head as described above.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for manufacturing a filter head, the method comprising: providing apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit, at least one of the fluid conduits being formed as a blind hole; fluidly connecting at least the at least one fluid conduit formed as a blind hole and another of the plurality of fluid conduits to one another by removing a removable region of the apparatus and fluidly sealing at least one of the open ends.

Preferably, the apparatus may comprise one or more of a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit and a fourth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

Optionally, the method may further comprise fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

In certain embodiments, the apparatus comprises on or more of a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit, a fourth fluid conduit, a fifth fluid conduit and a sixth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit to one another.

The method may further comprise: fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly connecting the fourth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

In certain embodiments, the method may comprise: fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit, the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit, the fourth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

The method may further comprise fluidly sealing the open ends of the fifth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another. Providing the apparatus may comprise integrally moulding the apparatus. Integrally moulding may comprise injection moulding.

Removing the removable region may comprise machining of the removable region. Machining may comprise rotary drilling.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 1 and 2 forming a filter head having a first configuration;

Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 1 and 2 forming a filter head having a second configuration;

Figure 5 shows an isometric view of apparatus according to a further embodiment of the invention;

Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 5;

Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 5 and 6 forming a filter head having a first configuration;

Figure 8 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 5 and 6 forming a filter head having a second configuration;

Figure 9 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 5 and 6 forming a filter head having a third configuration;

Figure 10 shows a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figures 5 and 6 forming a filter head having a fourth configuration;

Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a filter head according to an embodiment of the invention; and

Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus 10 according to embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 1 to 4. The apparatus 10 has application in forming a filter head. Particularly, but not necessarily, the apparatus 10 has application in forming a filter head for use in a system for filtering engine oil and/or for use in a motor vehicle 12 (illustrated in Figure 12). The apparatus 10 comprises a plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. While embodiments of the invention may comprise any number of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b, certain embodiments, including the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, may comprise four in number, i.e. a first fluid conduit 18a, a second fluid conduit 18b, a third fluid conduit 20a and a fourth fluid conduit 20b.

Each of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b has a respective open end 22 for the supply or discharge of fluid, e.g. engine oil, into or out of each respective fluid conduit 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. At least one of the open ends 22 may be on a first side S1 of the apparatus 10 and at least one other of the open ends 22 may be on an second side S2 of the apparatus 10. The first side S1 and the second side S2 may be opposing sides of the apparatus 10. The apparatus 10 further comprises a plurality of attachment means 24a, 24b for attachment of respective filter units 26 (illustrated in Figure 11), e.g. spin-on filters. The attachment means 24a, 24b may be conventional attachment means used in state-ofthe-art filter heads for attachment of conventional filter units thereto. The specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 comprises a first attachment means 24a and a second attachment means 24b.

Figure 2 shows a cross-section of the apparatus 10. As illustrated in Figure 2, at least one of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b is formed as a blind hole. Preferably, the apparatus 10 has two of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b formed as blind holes. In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the first and second fluid conduits 18a, 18b may be formed as blind holes. As will be apparent, the fluid conduits 18a, 18b which are formed as blind holes may not be in fluid communication with any other of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. In certain embodiments, all of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b may not be in fluid communication with any other of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b, as illustrated in Figure 2.

Each of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b may at least partially extend along a respective longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, a first pair of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b may at least partially extend along a first common longitudinal axis X1. The first and third fluid conduits 18a, 20a may form the first pair of conduits. Additionally or alternatively, a second pair of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b may at least partially extend along a second common longitudinal axis X2. The second and fourth fluid conduits 18a, 20a may form the second pair of conduits. The first and second common longitudinal axes X1, X2 may be substantially parallel to one another.

One or more of the open ends 22 may be configured to receive a respective closure member 28 (illustrated in Figure 3 and 4). Each of the closure members 28 may fluidly seal the one or more open ends 22 when received thereby. Each closure member 28 may be a screw-in plug incorporating a male screw thread portion. Accordingly, one or more of the open ends 22 may incorporate a complementary female screw thread portion. Of course, other closure members 28 are contemplated, e.g. a snap-fit plug.

Additionally, one or more of the closure members 28 may incorporate a sealing element or gasket, for example an O-ring washer. The sealing element may be elastomeric.

One or more of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b may each have a respective first opening 30 for the supply or discharge of fluid, into or out of each respective fluid conduit 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. The first openings 30 are formed in a side wall 32 of each respective fluid conduit 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. As will be understood, the first openings 30 are in fluid communication with the open end 22 of each respective fluid conduit 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. Preferably, two of the fluid conduits 20a, 20b each have one of two first openings 30. In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4, the third and fourth fluid conduits 20a, 20b each have a respective first opening 30. As shown in Figures 1 to 4, each of the first openings 30 may be in fluid communication with one of the plurality of attachment means 24, respectively. The first openings 30 enable fluid to flow between the apparatus 10 and a filter unit 26, via the respective attachment means 24a, 24b, when attached thereto.

The apparatus 10 may be formed as a single piece. The apparatus 10 may be formed by injection moulding. The apparatus 10 may be formed by die casting, especially pressure die casting, most preferably aluminium die casting. Other forming processes are also contemplated, e.g. gravity die cast and sand casting. The apparatus 10 may be formed of any suitable material, including or consisting one of: aluminium and steel. As will be understood, the first openings 30 may be formed as integral features of apparatus 10. As best illustrated in Figure 1, the apparatus 10 may further comprise a mounting portion 34 for fixing the apparatus 10 to a substrate (not shown). The apparatus 10 may not function as a filter head without suitable modification, as will be described below.

Figures 3 and 4 show the apparatus 10 forming a filter head 50. The filter head 50 may be formed to have one of multiple configurations. The filter head 50 may be formed to have one of at least two configurations. As such, Figure 3 shows the filter head 50 in a first configuration and Figure 4 shows the filter head 50 in a second configuration. In order to form the filter head 50, the apparatus 10 is subject to a method according to an embodiment of the invention. The method comprises fluidly connecting at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b to one another and fluidly sealing one or more of the open ends 22. The method may further comprise forming one or more second openings 52 in one or more of the fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of each respective fluid conduit 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b. Specifically, the method may further comprise forming a second opening 52 in the first and second fluid conduits 18a, 18b, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Each of the second openings 52 may be formed such that they are in fluid communication with one of the plurality of attachment means 24a, 24b, respectively. The second openings 52 enable fluid to flow between the filter head 50 and a filter unit 26, via the respective attachment means 24a, 24b, when attached thereto.

To form the filter head 50 having the first configuration, the method may comprise the removal of a first region 54 (illustrated in Figure 2) of the apparatus 10. Removal of the first region 54 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b to one another. Removal of the first region 54 may fluidly connect the second fluid conduit 18b and the fourth fluid conduit 20b to one another. To form the filter head 50 having the first configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing two of the open ends 22. The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 22 of the second and fourth fluid conduits 18b, 20b, the open ends 22 of the first and third fluid conduits 18a, 20a remaining unsealed. In the first configuration, the open end 22 of the first fluid conduit 18a may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 50. In the first configuration, the open end 22 of the third fluid conduit 20a may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 50. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the first side S1 and the outlet may be provided of the second side S2.

In use, i.e. with filter units 26 attached to the attachment means 24a, 24b, the filter head 50 may have a fluid pathway extending, via a number of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b, from one of the open ends 22 to another of the open ends 22. Specifically, as shown in the configuration illustrated in Figure 3, the filter head 50 may have a fluid pathway extending from the open end 22 of the first fluid conduit 18a to the open end 22 of the third fluid conduit 20a. The passage of fluid through the filter head 50 may be from the first fluid conduit 18a, to the fourth fluid conduit 20b, to the second fluid conduit 18b, to the third fluid conduit 20a. The passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 18a to the fourth fluid conduit 20b is via the filter 26 attached to the first attachment means 24a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 18b to the third fluid conduit 20a is via the filter 26 attached to the first attachment means 24b.

To form the filter head 50 having the second configuration, as illustrated in Figure 4, the method may comprise the removal of a second region 56 (also illustrated in Figure 2) of the apparatus 10. Removal of the second region 56 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b to one another. Removal of the second region 56 may fluidly connect the first fluid conduit 18a and the third fluid conduit 20a to one another. To form the filter head 50 having the second configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing two of the open ends 22. The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 22 of the first and third fluid conduits 18a, 20a, the open ends 22 of the second and fourth fluid conduits 18b, 20b remaining unsealed. In the second configuration, the open end 22 of the second fluid conduit 18b may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 50. In the second configuration, the open end 22 of the fourth fluid conduit 20b may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 50. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the second side S2 and the outlet may be provided of the first side S1.

In the second configuration, the filter head 50 may have a fluid pathway extending from the open end 22 of the second fluid conduit 18b to the open end 22 of the fourth fluid conduit 20b. The passage of fluid through the filter head 50 may be from the second fluid conduit 18b, to the third fluid conduit 20a, to the first fluid conduit 18a, to the fourth fluid conduit 20b. As in the first configuration, the passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 18a to the fourth fluid conduit 20b is via the filter 26 attached to the first attachment means 24a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 18b to the third fluid conduit 20a is via the filter 26 attached to the second attachment means 24b.

In either the first or second configurations, the filter head 50 formed using the apparatus 10 may provide a serial filter head, i.e. the filter head 50 directs fluid through two or more filter units 26 in series. The filter head 50 may direct fluid from an inlet on the first side S1 to and outlet on the second side S2, or vice versa.

Apparatus 100 for forming a filter head according to further embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to Figures 5 to 10. The apparatus 100 has application in forming a filter head. Particularly, but not necessarily, the apparatus 100 has application in forming a filter head for use in a system for filtering engine oil and/or for use in a motor vehicle 12 (illustrated in Figure 12). The apparatus 100 comprises a plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136b, 136b. While embodiments of the invention may comprise any number of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136b, 136b, as previously described, certain embodiments, including the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 10, may comprise six in number, i.e. a first fluid conduit 118a, a second fluid conduit 118b, a third fluid conduit 120a, a fourth fluid conduit 120b, a fifth fluid conduit 136a and a sixth fluid conduit 136b.

Each of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b has a respective open end 122 for the supply or discharge of fluid, e.g. engine oil, into or out of each respective fluid conduit 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. At least one of the open ends 122 may be on a first side S101 of the apparatus 100 and at least one other of the open ends 122 may be on an second side S102 of the apparatus 100. The first side S101 and the second side S102 may be opposing sides of the apparatus 100. The apparatus 100 further comprises a plurality of attachment means 124a, 124b for attachment of respective filter units 26 (illustrated in Figure 11), e.g. spin-on filters. As mentioned above, the attachment means 124a, 124b may be conventional attachment means used in state-of-the-art filter heads for attachment of conventional filter units thereto. The specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 10 comprises a first attachment means 124a and a second attachment means 124b.

Figure 6 shows a cross-section of the apparatus 100. As illustrated in Figure 6, at least one of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b is formed as a blind hole. Preferably, the apparatus 100 has four of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 136a, 136b formed as blind holes. In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 10, the first, second, fifth and sixth fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 136a, 136b may be formed as blind holes. As will be apparent, the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 136a, 136b which are formed as blind holes may not be in fluid communication with any other of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. In certain embodiments, all of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b may not be in fluid communication with any other of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b, as illustrated in Figure 6.

Each of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b may at least partially extend along a respective longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, a first pair of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b may at least partially extend along a first common longitudinal axis X101. The first and second fluid conduits 118a, 118b may form the first pair of conduits. Additionally or alternatively, a second pair of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b may at least partially extend along a second common longitudinal axis X102. The third and fourth fluid conduits 120a, 120b may form the second pair of conduits. The first and second common longitudinal axes X101, X102 may be substantially parallel to one another.

The fifth fluid conduit 136a may at least partially extend along third axis X103. The third axis X103 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle greater than 0°. Accordingly, the third axis X103 may transect either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both. In certain embodiments, the third axis X103 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle between 10° and 80°. In certain embodiments, the third axis X103 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle between 30° and 60°.

The sixth fluid conduit 136b may at least partially extend along fourth axis X104. The fourth axis X104 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle greater than 0°. Accordingly, the fourth axis X104 may transect either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both. In certain embodiments, fourth axis X104 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle between 10° and 80°. In certain embodiments, the fourth axis X104 may be offset from either of the first or second common axes X101, X102, or both, by an angle between 30° and 60°.

One or more of the open ends 122 may be configured to receive a respective closure member 28. Each of the closure members 28 may fluidly seal the one or more open ends 122 when received thereby. As previously described, each closure member 28 may be a screw-in plug incorporating a male screw thread portion. Accordingly, one or more of the open ends 122 may incorporate a complementary female screw thread portion.

One or more of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b may each have a respective first opening 130 for the supply or discharge of fluid, into or out of each respective fluid conduit 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. The first openings 130 are formed in a side wall 132 of each respective fluid conduit 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. As will be understood, the first openings 130 are in fluid communication with the open end 122 of each respective fluid conduit 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. Preferably, two of the fluid conduits 120a, 120b each have one of two first openings 130. In the specific embodiment illustrated in Figures 5 to 10, the third and fourth fluid conduits 120a, 120b each have a respective first opening 130. As shown in Figures 5 to 10, each of the first openings 130 may be in fluid communication with one of the plurality of attachment means 124, respectively. The first openings 130 enable fluid to flow between the apparatus 100 and a filter unit 126, via the respective attachment means 124a, 124b, when attached thereto.

The apparatus 100 may be formed as a single piece. The apparatus 100 may be formed by injection moulding. The apparatus 100 may be formed by die casting, especially pressure die casting, most preferably aluminium die casting. Other forming processes are also contemplated, e.g. gravity die cast and sand casting. The apparatus 100 may be formed of any suitable material, including or consisting one of: aluminium and steel. As will be understood, the first openings 130 may be formed as integral features of apparatus 100. As best illustrated in Figure 5, the apparatus 100 may further comprise a mounting portion 134 for fixing the apparatus 100 to a substrate (not shown). The apparatus 100 may not function as a filter head without suitable modification, as will be described below.

Figures 7 to 10 show the apparatus 100 forming a filter head 150. Similarly to the apparatus 10 described above with reference to Figures 1 to 4, the filter head 150 may be formed to have one of multiple configurations. The filter head 150 may be formed to have one of at least two configurations. As such, Figure 7 shows the filter head 150 in a first configuration, Figure 8 shows the filter head 150 in a second configuration, Figure 9 shows the filter head 150 in a third configuration and Figure 10 shows the filter head 150 in a fourth configuration. In order to form the filter head 150, the apparatus 100 is subject to a method according to an embodiment of the invention. The method comprises fluidly connecting at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another and fluidly sealing one or more of the open ends 122. The method may further comprise forming one or more second openings 152 in one of more of the fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of each respective fluid conduit 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b. Specifically, the method may further comprise forming a second opening 152 in the first and second fluid conduits 118a, 118b, as shown in Figures 7 to 10. Each of the second openings 152 may be formed such that they are in fluid communication with one of the plurality of attachment means 124a, 124b, respectively. The second openings 152 enable fluid to flow between the filter head 150 and a filter unit 126, via the respective attachment means 124a, 124b, when attached thereto.

To form the filter head 150 having the first configuration, the method may comprise the removal of a first region 154 (illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the first region 154 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the first configuration, the method may further comprise the removal of a second region 156 (also illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the second region 156 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. Removal of the first region 154 may fluidly connect the second fluid conduit 118b and the fifth fluid conduit 136a to one another. Removal of the second region 154 may fluidly connect the third fluid conduit 120a and the fifth fluid conduit 136a to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the first configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing at least two of the open ends 122. The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the second, third and fifth fluid conduits 118b, 120a, 136a, the open ends 122 of the first and fourth fluid conduits 118a, 120b remaining unsealed. In the first configuration, the open end 122 of the first fluid conduit 118a may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 150. In the first configuration, the open end 122 of the fourth fluid conduit 120b may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 150. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the first side S101 and the outlet may be provided of the second side S102.

In use, i.e. with filter units 126 attached to the attachment means 124a, 124b, the filter head 150 may have a fluid pathway extending, via a number of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b, from one of the open ends 122 to another of the open ends 122. Specifically, as shown in the configuration illustrated in Figure 7, the filter head 150 may have a fluid pathway extending from the open end 122 of the first fluid conduit 118a to the open end 122 of the fourth fluid conduit 120b. The passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the first fluid conduit 118a, to the third fluid conduit 120a, to the fifth fluid conduit 136a, to the second fluid conduit 118b, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b. The passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 118a to the third fluid conduit 120a is via the filter 126 attached to the first attachment means 124a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 118b to the fourth fluid conduit 120b is via the filter 126 attached to the second attachment means 124b.

To form the filter head 150 having the second configuration, as illustrated in Figure 8, the method may comprise the removal of a third region 158 (illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the third region 158 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the first configuration, the method may further comprise the removal of a fourth region 160 (also illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the fourth region 160 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. Removal of the third region 158 may fluidly connect the first fluid conduit 118a and the sixth fluid conduit 136b to one another. Removal of the fourth region 160 may fluidly connect the fourth fluid conduit 120b and the sixth fluid conduit 136b to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the second configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing at least two of the open ends 122.

The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the first, fourth and sixth fluid conduits 118a, 120b, 136b, the open ends 122 of the second and third fluid conduits 118b, 120a remaining unsealed. In the second configuration, the open end 122 of the second fluid conduit 118b may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 150. In the second configuration, the open end 122 of the third fluid conduit 120a may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 150. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the second side S102 and the outlet may be provided of the first side S101.

In the second configuration, the filter head 150 may have a fluid pathway extending from the open end 122 of the second fluid conduit 118b to the open end 122 of the third fluid conduit 120a, as shown in in Figure 8. The passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the second fluid conduit 118b, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b, to the sixth fluid conduit 136b, to the first fluid conduit 118a, to the third fluid conduit 120a. As in the first configuration, the passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 118a to the third fluid conduit 120a is via the filter 126 attached to the first attachment means 124a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 118b to the fourth fluid conduit 120b is via the filter 126 attached to the second attachment means 124b.

To form the filter head 150 having the third configuration, as illustrated in Figure 9, the method may comprise the removal of a fifth region 162 (illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the fifth region 162 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the third configuration, the method may further comprise the removal of a sixth region 164 (also illustrated in Figure 6) of the apparatus 100. Removal of the sixth region 164 fluidly connects at least two of the plurality of fluid conduits 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b, 136a, 136b to one another. Removal of the fifth region 162 may fluidly connect the first fluid conduit 118a and the second fluid conduit 118b to one another. Removal of the sixth region 164 may fluidly connect the third fluid conduit 120a and the fourth fluid conduit 120b to one another. To form the filter head 150 having the third configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing at least two of the open ends 122. The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the second and third fluid conduits 118b, 120a, the open ends 122 of the first and fourth fluid conduits 118a, 120b remaining unsealed. In certain embodiments, the method may additionally comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the fifth and sixth fluid conduits 136a, 136b. In the third configuration, the open end 122 of the first fluid conduit 118a may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 150. In the third configuration, the open end 122 of the fourth fluid conduit 120b may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 150. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the first side S101 and the outlet may be provided on the second side S102.

In the third configuration, the filter head 150 may have multiple fluid pathways extending from the open end 122 of the first fluid conduit 118a to the open end 122 of the fourth fluid conduit 120b, as shown in Figure 9. The passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the first fluid conduit 118a, to the third fluid conduit 120a, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b. Additionally, the passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the first fluid conduit 118a, to the second fluid conduit 118b, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b. The passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 118a to the third fluid conduit 120a is via the filter 126 attached to the first attachment means 124a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 118b to the fourth fluid conduit 120b is via the filter 126 attached to the second attachment means 124b.

To form the filter head 150 having the fourth configuration, as illustrated in Figure 10, the method may comprise the removal of the fifth region 162 of the apparatus 100. To form the filter head 150 having the fourth configuration, the method may further comprise the removal of the sixth region 164 of the apparatus 100. To form the filter head 150 having the fourth configuration, the method may comprise fluidly sealing at least two of the open ends 122. The method may comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the first and fourth fluid conduits 118a, 120b, the open ends 122 of the second and third fluid conduits 118b, 120a remaining unsealed. In certain embodiments, the method may additionally comprise fluidly sealing the open ends 122 of the fifth and sixth fluid conduits 136a, 136b. In the fourth configuration, the open end 122 of the second fluid conduit 118b may provide an inlet for the supply of fluid to be filtered into the filter head 150. In the third configuration, the open end 122 of the third fluid conduit 120a may provide an outlet for the discharge of filtered fluid from the filter head 150. Accordingly, the inlet may be provided on the second side S102 and the outlet may be provided on the first side S101. In the fourth configuration, the filter head 150 may have multiple fluid pathways extending from the open end 122 of the second fluid conduit 118b to the open end 122 of the third fluid conduit 120a, as shown in in Figure 10. The passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the second fluid conduit 118b, to the third fluid conduit 120a, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b. Additionally, the passage of fluid through the filter head 150 may be from the second fluid conduit 118b, to the first fluid conduit 118a, to the fourth fluid conduit 120b. As in the first, second and third configurations, the passage of fluid from the first fluid conduit 118a to the third fluid conduit 120a is via the filter 126 attached to the first attachment means 124a. Similarly, the passage of fluid from the second fluid conduit 118b to the fourth fluid conduit 120b is via the filter 126 attached to the second attachment means 124b.

In either the first or second configurations, the filter head 150 formed using the apparatus 100 may provide a serial filter head, i.e. the filter head 150 directs fluid through two or more filter units 126 in series. In either the third or fourth configurations, the filter head 150 formed using the apparatus 100 may provide a parallel filter head, i.e. the filter head 150 directs fluid through two or more filter units 126 in parallel. The filter head 150 in the form of a series filer head may direct fluid from an inlet on the first side S101 to and outlet on the second side S102, or vice versa. The filter head 150 in the form of a parallel filter head may direct fluid from an inlet on the first side S101 to an outlet on the second side S102, or vice versa.

Apparatus according to embodiments of the invention offer multiple options and/or configurations for users by modification of a single part. The multiple options afforded by a modifiable single part may reduce the cost of manufacturing multiple filter heads, which in turn may reduce the cost of the filter head to the user. The first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth regions may be removed by machining, e.g. drilling.

A filter head 200 according to a further embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to Figure 11. The filter head 200 has particular application for use in a motor vehicle 12. The filter head 200 has particular application for use in filtering engine oil. Figure 11 shows the filter head in combination with a pair of filter units 26 and closure members 28. The filter units 26 may be spin-on type filter units. The apparatus 10 has particular application in forming a filter head for use with spin-on type filter units. The filter head 200 is a serial filter head as described above. An advantage of a serial filter head is that it allows filter units 26 having different properties, e.g. filter media, to be incorporated in a system for filtering fluid. Therefore, fluid can first be filtered by a relatively course filter media and subsequently filtered by a relatively fine filter media, for example. Contaminant particles may thus not clog the filter media or pass therethrough to be returned to, e.g. an engine, unfiltered. Figure 12 shows a vehicle comprising a filter head 300 according to any filter head has described above.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

o The invention is not restricted to the details of any foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed. The claims should not be construed to cover merely the foregoing embodiments, but also any embodiments which fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. Apparatus for forming a filter head, the apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit, wherein at least one of the fluid conduits is formed as a blind hole.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a first pair of the plurality of fluid conduits each at least partially extend along a first longitudinal axis.

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a second pair of the plurality of fluid conduits each at least partially extend along a second longitudinal axis.

4. Apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are substantially parallel to one another.

5. Apparatus according to any of claims 2 to 4, wherein the one of the plurality of fluid conduits at least partially extends along a third longitudinal axis, the third longitudinal axis being offset from either of the first or second longitudinal axes, or both, by an angle greater than zero degrees.

6. Apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the third longitudinal axis is offset from either of the first or second longitudinal axes, or both, by an angle between ten and eighty degrees.

7. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the open ends are each configured for receiving a closure member to fluidly seal the one or more open ends.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the one or more of the open ends configured for receiving a closure member each incorporate a screw thread.

9. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the plurality of fluid conduits each have a first opening, in addition to the respective open end, for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out the respective fluid conduit.

10. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the open ends is on a first side of the apparatus and another of the open ends is on a second side of the apparatus.

11. Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first side is an opposite side of the apparatus to the second side.

12. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus is a single piece.

13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of fluid conduits comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit and a fourth fluid conduit.

14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first and second fluid conduits are formed as blind holes.

15. Apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the third and fourth fluid conduits each have a first opening, in addition to the respective open end, for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit.

16. Apparatus according to claim 13, 14 or 15 wherein the plurality of fluid conduits further comprises a fifth fluid conduit and a sixth fluid conduit.

17. Apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the fifth and sixth fluid conduits are formed as blind holes.

18. A filter head for attachment of at least two filter units, the filter head having a fluid pathway configured to direct fluid through the two or more filter units in series.

19. A vehicle comprising the filter head according of claim 18.

20. Apparatus for forming a filter head substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying figures.

21. A filter head for attachment of at least two filter units substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying figures.

22. A method for manufacturing a filter head, the method comprising: providing apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit, at least one of the fluid conduits being formed as a blind hole;

fluidly connecting at least the at least one fluid conduit formed as a blind hole and another of the plurality of fluid conduits to one another by removing a removable region of the apparatus and fluidly sealing at least one of the open ends.

23. A method according to claim 22, wherein:

the apparatus comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit and a fourth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

24. A method according to claim 23, wherein the method comprises:

fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

25. A method according to claim 22, wherein:

the apparatus comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit, a fourth fluid conduit, a fifth fluid conduit and a sixth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit to one another.

26. A method according to claim 25, further comprising:

fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly connecting the fourth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

27. A method according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the method comprises: fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit, the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit, the fourth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

28. A method according to claim 27, wherein the method further comprises fluidly sealing the open ends of the fifth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

29. A method according to any of claims 22 to 28, wherein providing the apparatus comprises integrally moulding the apparatus.

30. A method according to claim 29, wherein integrally moulding comprises injection moulding.

31. A method according to any of claims 22 to 30, wherein removing the removable region comprises machining of the removable region.

32. A method according to claims 31, wherein machining comprises rotary drilling.

33. A method for manufacturing a filter head filter head substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying figures.

Amendment to the claims has been filed as follows;

06 02 17

1. Apparatus for forming a filter head, the apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit,

5 wherein at least one of the fluid conduits is formed as a blind hole.

10 3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a second pair of the plurality of fluid conduits each at least partially extend along a second longitudinal axis.

25 7. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the open ends are each configured for receiving a closure member to fluidly seal the one or more open ends.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the one or more of the open ends

30 configured for receiving a closure member each incorporate a screw thread.

06 02 17

5 11. Apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first side is an opposite side of the apparatus to the second side.

15 14. Apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first and second fluid conduits are formed as blind holes.

15. Apparatus according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the third and fourth fluid conduits each have a first opening, in addition to the respective open end, for the supply

20 or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit.

25 17. Apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the fifth and sixth fluid conduits are formed as blind holes.

18. A filter head for attachment of at least two filter units, the filter head being formed as a single piece and having a fluid pathway configured to direct fluid through the

30 two or more filter units in series.

19. A vehicle comprising the filter head according of claim 18.

20. A method for manufacturing a filter head, the method comprising:

35 providing apparatus comprising a plurality of fluid conduits each having an open end for the supply or discharge of fluid into or out of the respective fluid conduit, at least one of the fluid conduits being formed as a blind hole;

06 02 17 fluidly connecting at least the at least one fluid conduit formed as a blind hole and another of the plurality of fluid conduits to one another by removing a removable region of the apparatus and fluidly sealing at least one of the open ends.

5 21. A method according to claim 20, wherein:

the apparatus comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit and a fourth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another; or

10 removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

22. A method according to claim 21, wherein the method comprises:

fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid

15 conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit to one another.

20 23. A method according to claim 20, wherein:

the apparatus comprises a first fluid conduit, a second fluid conduit, a third fluid conduit, a fourth fluid conduit, a fifth fluid conduit and a sixth fluid conduit; and removal of the removable region fluidly connects the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another; or

25 removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another; or removal of the removable region fluidly connects the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit to one another.

30.

A method according to claims 29, wherein machining comprises rotary drilling.

Intellectual

Property

Office

Application No: Claims searched:

GB1611422.5 1 - 17 & 22-33

30 24. A method according to claim 23, further comprising:

fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit to one another, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly connecting the fourth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; 35 or

06 02 17 fluidly connecting the third fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit to one another, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

5 25. A method according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the method comprises:

fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit, the third fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit, if the second fluid conduit and the fifth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit, the fourth fluid conduit 1 o and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit are connected to one another; or fluidly sealing the open ends of the second fluid conduit and the third fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another; or

15 fluidly sealing the open ends of the first fluid conduit and the fourth fluid conduit, if the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

26. A method according to claim 25, wherein the method further comprises fluidly sealing the open ends of the fifth fluid conduit and the sixth fluid conduit, if the first fluid

20 conduit and the second fluid conduit are connected to one another.

27. A method according to any of claims 20 to 26, wherein providing the apparatus comprises integrally moulding the apparatus.

25 28. A method according to claim 27, wherein integrally moulding comprises injection moulding.

29. A method according to any of claims 20 to 28, wherein removing the removable region comprises machining of the removable region.