If I 3D-print this spare, I'm going to get arrested!

I've been having one or two problems with the washer/dryer in my Birmingham flat, so had cause to remove the water filter to check it. I found an errant collar stiffener, but I have to say that I was rather stunned by the design of the filter. I mean, if form follows function, what on earth is this bit of plastic meant to be doing?



Do a Google image search on its part number, 1240088029. The mind boggles...