Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
SINGLE-USE LONG-LIFE FAUCET-MOUNTED WATER FILTRATION
DEVICES
Field of Invention
The field of the invention is water filtration devices.
Background of the Invention
The demand for pure water continues to grow rapidly due to increasing
concerns about the quality and safety of tap water, the popularity of water as
a
beverage (instead of soda and alcohol) and the growing awareiiess that most
people do
not drink enough water as prescribed by the medical community.
Water is supplied from municipal water systems (many of which are aging),
private water systems and wells in the United States. Frequently, this water
has poor
taste, particulates, unwanted odors and in many cases contaminants contained
in it.
Municipal water is commonly treated with chlorine to eliminate bacterial
contaminants. Chlorine adds what most people feel is an unpleasant taste and
odor.
Water conditions vary greatly according to the geographic area and therefore
travelers
may also experience these problems as they visit hotel and motel rooms around
the
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
country. It is desirous to remove bad tastes, odors, sediment and contaminants
before
ingesting the water or using it for cooking food.
Water treatment devices of many varieties have proven effective in
accomplishing water purification. Generally these devices work through
chemical and
mechanical actions that remove contaminants and impurities from water. These
filters
have a finite life. Sediment can eventually clog a filter and chemical
reactions
realized through adsorption (carbon media) and ion exchange (cation resin)
have a
limited capacity.
United States Patent No. 5,989,425 to Yonezawa et al. discloses a multi-way
[o valve and water purifier. The multi-way valve is disclosed as a small-sized
one which
may be used with a small-sized water purifier. The device disclosed in the
'425 patent
is a faucet mounted filter and it is designed for removing and exchanging
valve
bodies.
United States Patent No. 5,017,286 to Heiliaman and United States Patent No.
Re. 35667 to Heiligman disclose a vertical filter enclosed in a housing and
the
housing is supported by a duct. The vertical filter may be permanently secured
to the
filter by hot melt adhesive which renders the filter non-removable. Further,
the
vertical filter may be pre-wrapped with a porous paper pre-filter. The device
disclosed in the '286 patent is a faucet mounted filter. If the filter is
glued to the filter
2o housing the filter housing must be removed and discarded together with the
filter. A
new filter housing (and filter) must then be mounted onto the duct of the
diverter
valve each time the filter housing is replaced. This involves time consuming
labor in
2
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the case of each einbodiment disclosed in the '286 patent. In one embodiment
of the
'286 patent, the filter housing is secured by a retaining clip. In another
embodiment
disclosed in the '286 patent, the male duct of the filter housing is press-fit
into an
opening in the diverter valve. Alternatively, the male duct of the filter
housing may
be affixed to the diverter valve by a U-clip, cotter pin or the like. The
filter housing
as disclosed in the '286 patent is disclosed as residing vertically in front
of the faucet.
In short, it is not a simple matter to change the filter housing of the device
disclosed in
the '286 patent.
United States Patent No. 5,527,451 to Hembree et al. discloses a faucet
t o mounted filter utilizing a replacement filter cartridge. The replacement
filter cartridge
resides within a larger rotatable housing which channels water flow either
into the
filter or through the diverter valve assembly. Hembree et al. also discloses a
very
complicated flow tntalization mechanism which includes porting water to a
turbine
driven mechanism prior to filtering thereof.
1~ United States Patent No. US 6,571,960 B2 to Williamson et al. discloses a
faucet-mounted water filtration device whose filter housing includes a valve
therein
and whose filter housing extends longitudinally rearwardly from the point of
attachment to the faucet. The filters in Williamson et al. are replaceable
filter
cartridges.
20 United States Patent No. US 6,284,129 B1 to Giordano et al. discloses a
rotating magnetized impeller actuating a reed switch.
3
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United States Patent No. US 5,993,648 to Hunter et al. discloses a water
filtration device which includes a fountain. Further, the '648 patent
discloses a water
filtration device having an internal flow configuration such that the water
may be
made to flow from one of a first outlet or a second outlet by selective
actuation of a
oate valve along a track. The filter used in the '648 patent is a
replaceable.filter. See,
the '648 patent, column 2, lines 38-40. The gate valve is spring biased which
normally positions the gate valve for selective discharge from the first
outlet. Water
leaving the second outlet is discharged in a substantially upward direction
with some
left side vectoring, e.g., discharging leftward at an angle deviating 10 to 60
degrees
to from vertical. See the '648 patent, column3, lines 18-30.
In each of the foregoing disclosures, the devices disclosed therein are
designed
for disassembly of some sort as a matter of maintenance of the filtration
device. This
requires labor and attendant time. Complex flow totalization mechanisms such
as the
one disclosed in Hembree et al. '451 present maintenance problems. The need to
chanae the filter and/or the filter housing and/or the diverter valve all
require labor
and attendant time.
In each of the foregoing disclosures, the devices disclosed therein are
designed
for disassembly of some sort as a matter of maintenance of the filtration
device.
Filtration devices customarily employ replaceable filter cartridges of some
type.
zo These arrangements require either a coupling arrangement for attaching and
detaching
a replacement filter cartridge or a large chamber to entirely enclose the
replacement
filter cartridge. Both approaches require additional components and materials
that add
4
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to the manufactured cost and complexity of the device. Furthennore, each of
the
foregoing disclosures, by requiring the replacement of the filter element,
cause great
inconvenience to the user by having him search for and procure replacement
filter
elements at considerable cost. This arran gement, while lucrative for the
manufacturer,
5- is a well documented.nuisance for the consumer. In addition, rnost of the
devices in
the related art, owing to their need for easy access and maintenance are
relatively
large and obtrusive partially blocking the sink basin. Finally, the devices
noted above
and most others despite the availability of high capacity filter media are not
designed
for long life so as to maximize the frequency with which users must purchase
io replacement filter elements.
It is therefore desirable to have a small faucet-mounted water filtration
device
which is a single-use, long-life water filtration device which includes an
indicator of
filter perforrnance. By single use it is meant that it is discarded when its
performance
indicator reveals that the efficacy of the filter has been diminished. It is
also desirable
15 to have the filter housing of the water filtration device mounted behind
the connection
to the faucet to enable full access to the sink basin beneath the faucet.
Water pressure in homes, commercial establishments, and public buildings
varies greatly. The variation in pressure is a problem for drinking fountains
where the
user drinks water directly from the source without the use of a vessel such as
a cup or
20 a glass. If the pressure in the water source is too high then the water is
expelled with a
velocity, trajectory and in an amount that is too large resulting in spillage
on the user's
clothing, face or floor. Variations in pressure can occur because of city
water
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
pressures which are not controlled properly. In residential well water systems
variations in pressure can occur due to system operation back on the well pump
curve
due to low flow usage. Further pressure problems may be caused by water
pressure
regulators which are improperly set or need repair. It is desirable,
therefore, to
provide a water filtration device which expels filtered water from a fountain
head in a
usable trajectory and amount. It is desirable to control water pressure within
a water
filtration device such that it expels filtered water from a fountain head in a
usable
trajectory and amount. It is further desirable to adjust the flow of water
from a
fountain head in a usable trajectory in three axial directions.
i o Summary of the Invention
A single-use faucet-mounted water filtration device is provided. The device is
of uni-body construction and has no removable or replaceable parts yet
provides long
life operation. T::is arrangement malces the device more convenient to use
compared
with other devices that require frequent replacement of filter cartridges. The
device is
constructed with a minimum of components making it relatively small in size
and less
costly to manufacture. While compact, the device is able to hold enough filter
media
to allow for long life operation. The life of the water filtration device is
dependent
upon the type of filter media used, sizing and ;eometry of the filter media,
and the
sizing and geometry of water flow paths. For instance, water filtration
devices having
2o a useful life of 300 gallons or more can be made utilizing the teachings of
the instant
invention. Water filtration devices having useful lives smaller than 300
gallons may
6
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also be made utilizing the teachings of the instant invention. Performance
indications
as a function of integrated flow are indicated by a light emitting diode.
The main housing of the devices resides beneath the faucet neck and rearward
of the water discharge point thus not obstructing the sink basin. A single-use
device is
provided for use in a kitchen sink and a device is provided for use izl a
bathroom sink.
Unlike devices in the related art the bathroom embodiment of the single-use
faucet
filter is scaled to the small size of bathroom sinks and therefore practical
for use in
bathrooms. The bathroom filter device allows residential users to have the
benefit of
filtered water in close proximity to the bedroom avoiding the inconvenience of
going
to to a kitchen sink for water during the night. In addition, because the
bathroom device
is small and disposable it may be taken with a traveler and installed in a
hotel or motel
room. Further, as travelers readily discein the differences between water and
its tastes
from. one place to another it is highly desirable that the water filter be
portable.
The invention includes a front housing connectable to a water faucet and a
1s filter housing having an inlet and an outlet. An end cap of the filter
housing completes
the filter housing. The front housing is non-removably affixed to the filter
housing
and the water filter is non-removably contained within the water filter
housing. The
water filter housing includes a chamber in communication with the water
filter. The
filter is preferably activated carbon and includes a filter pre-wrap. Other
filter media
20 may be used. The outlet resides in the chamber. Alternatively, a second
outlet may
also reside in the chamber in the embodiment of the bathroom filter.
7
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The single use water filtration device is small. The embodiment designed for
bathroom use has a filter diameter less than or equal to 1.6 inches. The
embodiment
designed for kitchen use has a filter diameter less than or equal to 2.2
inches. The
water filtration devices disclosed herein, namely the bathroom and kitchen
embodiments, reside substantially rearwardly with respect to the water faucet.
Other
diameters and sizes of the water filtration devices disclosed herein may be
made using
the teachings hereof.
The filter includes ends thereof each secured to an end cap. The end caps have
peripheral seal portions which seal against the interior of the filter
housing.
A housing end cap is ultrasonically welded to the filter housing. Other
welding
methods such as microwave, radio frequency (RF), heat and induction welding
may
be employed to weld various portions of the water filtration devices disclosed
herein
tcgether.
The second outlet includes a valve seat and a valve interposed in the filter
housing being operable against the valve seat of the second outlet for
controlling the
flow out of the second outlet. The valve includes a plunger having a foot and
an
elastomeric ball valve or boot residing over the foot. The foot of the plunger
and the
elastomeric ball valve reside within the housing. A handle is pivotally
connected to
the end cap of the filter housing and engages the plunger such that when the
plunger is
2o depressed the elastomeric ball valve moves inwardly toward the center of
the housing
and away from the seat of the second outlet. A fountain head is rotatably
secured in
the plunger and lever for communication with a passageway in the plunger.
s
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A spring is interposed between the plunger and the filter housing urging the
elastomeric ball valve against the valve seat of the second outlet.
A front housing having first and second passageways is non-removably affixed
to the filter housing. The front housing includes a directional valve residing
within the
front housing and movable therein for.directing water into the filter for
filtering or
through the front housing for direct use of the unfiltered water. The filter
housing
includes three protrusions which interengage corresponding apertures in the
front
housing. The front housing also includes a continuous periphery welded to the
filter
housing by one of the aforementioned methods. The filter housing includes a
recess
i o whose shape is the reciprocal of the continuous periphery of the front
housing and the
continuous periphery of the front housing fits snugly within the recess in the
filter
housing. The end cap of the filter housing is welded to the filter housing.
Three parts
or pieces, the filter housiiig, the front housing and the end cap of the
filter housing are
welded together to provide a unibody or integral construction.
A gate having a magnet affixed therein resides in the chamber and swings
between a first position and a second position. Spacers extending from the end
cap
serve to ensure that the gate remains in alignment with respect to the earth.
These
spacers also serve to ensure that the filter subassembly remains in proper
position.
The first end cap of the filter includes a first hinge member and the gate
includes a
second hinge member which coacts with the first hinge member to enable the
gate to
swing between first and second positions. A gate position sensor resides in a
drv
9
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
portion of the end cap of the water filter housing and is actuated when the
gate swings
to the second position and the magnet is in proximity to the sensor.
An electronic package and a light emitting diode reside in the dry portion of
the
end cap of the water filter housing. The electronic package outputs a signal
to the
light emitting diode which indicates the performance of the water filtration
device.
The electronic package outputs three discrete signals to the light emitting
diode to
indicate three performance levels of the filter.
A filter performance indicator for use in a water filter which includes a gate
having a first magnet affixed thereto and a filter boundary having hinges
thereon
forming a pivot thereon and a second magnet affixed thereto is also disclosed
herein.
The gate is pivotally affixed to the hinges and is movable in an arc between a
first
position when no flow impinges upon the gate and the first and second magnets
are
coupled together and a second position when flow does impinge upon the gate
and the
first and second magnets are not coupled together. A filter housing includes a
sensor
therein for sensing the presence of the gate and the first magnet when the
gate is in the
second position. The filter performance indicator accurately distinguishes
between
flow and no flow conditions. The gate includes a conically disposed structure
extending from the rear side or end thereof which coacts with a cylindrically
extending passageway which extends from the filter boundary.
A method of making a water filtration device is also disclosed and comprises
the steps of: attaching end caps to the filter; inserting the filter within a
filter housing;
aligning the filter within the filter housing; inserting a portion of a gate
into
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corresponding receptacles on one end of one of the end caps previously affixed
to the
filter; inserting a sensor and electronic package into an open end of a filter
housing
end cap; affixing the filter housing end cap to the filter housing forming a
chamber
between a closed end of the filter housing end cap and the one end of one of
the end
caps; and, affixing a front housing. to the filter housing. The step of
attaching end caps
to said filter may be performed with adhesive. And, the steps of affixing the
end cap
of the filter housing, affixing the filter housing end cap to the filter
housing and
affixing the front housing to the filter housing may be performed by an
ultrasonic
welding process or one of the other welding processes identified herein.
Another embodiment of the bathroom water filtration device includes a filter
housing and a water. filter residing within the filter housing as disclosed in
connection
with other embodiments. A water inlet in the filter housing admits unfiltered
water to
the water filter. The filter housing includes a first filtered water outlet
and a second
filtered water outlet as disclosed in connection with other embodiments. An
upwardly
extending tube having a passageway therein resides within a chamber in the
filter
housing and is in communication with the second outlet. Preferably the tube is
a
thermoplastic elastomer. A valve is movable between a first position in
engagement
with the second filtered outlet and a second position not in engagement with
the
second filtered outlet. When the valve is in its second position it is in
proximity to the
second filtered outlet and the passageway of the tube dividing the flow of
water
between the first filtered water outlet and the second filtered outlet. 'The
tube is
curved in three dimensions. Other designs may use a tube that is not curved or
is
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
curved in one or two directions. The valve does not seat against the upwardly
extending tube thus dividing the flow of water to the outlets. Division of the
flow of
water together with controlled depression of a lever which actuates the valve
enables
control of the water expelled from a fountain head.
Preferably the valve is an elastomeric material and is spaced approximately
0.050
inches apart from the passageway of said tube when in second position. The
water
filter is secured to a filter end cap and the filter housing includes a filter
housing end
cap. The filter end cap and the filter housing end cap form a wet chamber
having
controlled dimensions. The filter end cap includes an opening from which
filtered
to water is expelled to the wet chamber and distributed through the tube to at
least the
second filtered water outlet.
The filter end cap includes first, second, third and fourth supports for the
tube
to assist in positioning it out of the way from the swinging gate and
a1_igning the
passageway of the tube in proximity to the valve. The filter end cap further
includes
a hinge and a flow sensing gate pivotably secured to the hinge. In first
position the
gate resides in proximity to the opening in the filter end cap. In the second
position
the gate swings rotatably away from the opening in the filter end cap.
Preferably the flow sensing gate and opening in the filter end cap are axially
offset
to avoid the tube. As disclosed in connection with other embodiments the flow
sensing
gate includes a first magnet affixed thereto and the filter end cap includes a
second
magnet affixed thereto. The magnets may be press fit into respective housings
or they
may be secured by adhesive. In first position the gate and its magnet are
spaced apart
12
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from the filter end cap and its magnet. In first position the magnets exhibit
mutual
attraction. A flow sensing gate position sensor resides exteriorly to the end
cap of the
water filter housing. The flow sensing gate position sensor is actuated when
the flow
sensing gate swings to second position and the first magnet is in proximity to
the flow
sensing gate position sensor. The geometry of the gate with respect to the
magnet in
the filter end cap and the sensor in the dry portion of the filter housing end
cap
produces reliable flow indication.
A fountain head is in communication with the filtered water outlet and expels
filtered water therefrom. The fountain head includes a first adjustably
rotatable
I o member rotatable in an arc about a first axis and a second adjustably
rotatable member
rotatable in an arc about a second axis. The first rotatable member has a frst
passageway in communication with the filtered water outlet and the second
rotatable
member has a second passageway in communication with the first passageway. The
second passageway of the second rotatable member is in communication with the
exterior of the second rotatable member for the expulsion of filtered water.
The first
and second axes of the first and second rotatable members are orthogonal such
that the
filtered water is expelled from the fountain head at an adjusted and desired
trajectory.
Preferably the first and second adjustably rotatable members are thermoplastic
elastomers and sealingly engage each other. Further, the first adjustably
rotatable
member seals with respect to the plunger in which it is inserted.
The valve includes a plunger having a foot and a ball valve resides over the
foot.
The foot of the plunger and the elastomeric ball valve resides within the
housinv. A
13
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spring is interposed between the plunger and the filter housing urging the
elastomeric
ball valve against the valve seat of the filtered water outlet. A handle or
lever is
pivotally affixed to the housing and engages the plunger such that when the
lever and
plunger are depressed against the urging of the spring the elastomeric ball
valve
moves away from the valve seat of the filtered water outlet expelling water
from the
fountain head. The pivotally affixed handle is rotatable in an arc about a
third axis
orthogonal to the first and second axes such that the filtered water is
expelled from the
fountain head at an adjusted and desired trajectory in three axial directions.
Another
way of expressing the trajectory of the water leaving the fountain head is in
terms of a
to vector having magnitudes along the traditional x, y and z axes.
As was mentioned above in connection with other embodiments the water filter
housing includes a housing end cap affixed thereto. Preferably the housing end
cap is
ultrasonically welded to the water filter housing. The wet chamber is defined
by the
filter housing end cap, the filter end cap, and the filter housing. The filter
housing end
cap includes a first stop and a second stop.. The filter end cap includes a
first
protrusion and a second protrusion. The first protrusion of the filter end cap
interengages the first stop of the filter housing end cap and prevents
rotation of the
filter end cap and the water filter attached thereto. Preferably the water
filter is
secured to both of its end caps with adhesive. The second protrusion of the
filter end
cap interengages the second stop of the filter housing end cap preventing
rotational
movement of the filter end cap and the filter. As with the other embodiments
described herein the water filter is non-removably contained within the water
filter
14
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housing and secured to the filter end caps. A passageway in one of the filter
end caps
communicates water from the filter into the chamber. Preferably, the
passageway
through the filter end cap is off-center to facilitate the design and
operation of the gate
such that it does not interfere with the tube or the valve. The gate
preferably includes
a curved protrusion which coacts with a conical discharge which protrudes from
the
filter end cap. The passageway in the filter end cap passes through the
conical
protrusion of the filter end cap.
In forming the chamber, the filter housing end cap and the filter end cap are
spaced
apart by the first and second spacers of the filter housing end cap. In this
way the
to dimensions of the chamber are maintained for operation of the valve and the
gate.
A method of making a water filtration device includes the steps of: attaching
end
caps to a filter; inserting the filter within a filter housing; aligning the
filter within the
filter housing; inserting a hinge portion of a gate into corresponding
receptacles on
one end of one of the end caps previously affixed to the filter; inserting a
portion of a
tube into an aperture within the filter housing forming a first outlet;
aligning the tube
with respect to one of the end caps previously affixed to the filter; affixing
the filter
housing end cap to the filter housing forming a chamber between a closed end
of the
filter housing end cap and the filter end cap; and, affixing a front housing
to the filter
housing. Additionally, the step of affixing the filter housing end cap to the
filter
2o housing includes the step of interengaging stops on the end cap of the
filter housing
with protrusions on the filter end cap preventing rotation of the filter end
cap and the
filter. Additionally the method may include the steps of: inserting a plunger
having a
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
shoe in a second housing outlet; placing a boot valve over the shoe; inserting
a spring
between the filter housing and the plunger; and, attaching a pivotable lever
to the filter
housing. Still additionally the method may include the steps of: inserting a
first
adjustably rotatable member in the pivotable lever and the plunger; and,
inserting a
s second adjustably rotatable member in the first adjustably rotatable member.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
is disposable and provides an indication as to when the filter should be
disposed.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a water filtration
device
which is small in size and which resides substantially rearwardly with respect
to the
to faucet to which it is mounted.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a water filtration
device
which is self-contained and which does not require maintenance and, in fact,
which
cannot be maintained because the parts t-h-e_reof are non-removably affixed
together or
non-removably contained therein.
15 It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration
device at
reasonable cost which is disposable and which is faucet mounted.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
includes a swinging gate having a magnet therein which in combination with a
sensor
and an electronic package provides a visual indication as to the status or
performance
20 of the filter.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
includes two filtered outlets.
16
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It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
includes a valved outlet with the valve operated by a lever.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
includes an outlet having a rotatably mounted fountain head.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device
which
includes a lever actuated fountain.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a gate which includes a
magnet used to provide positional information about the position of the gate.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a reliable gate position
io sensing system which accurately distinguishes between flow and no flow
conditions.
It is an object of the present invention to control the pressure of filtered
water
within a chamber of a water filtration device.
It is an object of the present invention to divide the flow of filtered water
between two outlets so as to control the quantity of flow out of one the
outlets.
ts It is an object of the present invention to provide a fountain head which
is
adjustably rotatable in one, two or three axes.
It is an object of the present invention to position a valve within proximity
to
two filtered water outlets to control the flow from each outlet.
It is an object of the present invention to position a valve within proximity
to a
zo tube having a passagew~ay therethrough which is interconnected to one
filtered water
outlet to control the flow therefrom without engaging the tube.
17
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It is an object of the present invention to position a valve intermediate a
tube
having a passageway therethrough interconnected with a first filtered water
outlet and
a second filtered water outlet to control the pressure within the chamber and
to control
the flow of water expelled from the first and second filtered water outlets.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a fountain head for
expelling
filtered water which is rotatably adjustable in three axes.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a fountain head for
expelling
filtered water having an adjustable pressure and trajectory.
These and additional objects will become apparent when reference is made to
io the Brief Description of the Drawings, Description of the Invention and
Claims which
follow hereinbelow.
Brief Description Of The Drawings
Fig. 1 is an exploded assembl_y view of a first embodiment of the water
filtration device.
Fig. 1A is an exploded assembly view of a third embodiment of the water
filtration device with a different left end cap and a second magnet employed.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the water filtration
device.
Fig. 2A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the water filtration
device with the handle of the valve pulled forward.
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the water
filtration
device taken along the lines 3-3 of Fig. 2. In Fig. 3 the filter is not
operating as no
water is being directed into it.
18
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Fig. 3A is an enlargement of a portion of Fig. 3.
Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the water
filtration
device with the fountain lever depressed and with water flowing through the
filter.
Fig. 3C is an enlargement of a portion of Fig. 3B.
Fig. 3D is a cross-sectional vievN, of the first embodiment of the water
filtration
device similar to Fig. 3 with an O-ring used as an additional seal for the
filter
subassembly.
Fig. 3E is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water
filtration
device with a different left end cap and a second magnet employed.
Fig. 3F is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water
filtration
device with a different left end cap and a second magnet employed and with the
fountain lever depressed and with water flowing through the filter.
Fig. 3G is a cress-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water
filtration
device with a different left end cap and a second magnet employed and with the
fountain lever not depressed and with no water flowing through the filter.
Fig. 4 is an enlargement of the front housing of the first embodiment of the
water filtration device.
Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the front housing taken along the lines
4A-
4A of Fig. 4.
Fig. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the front housing taken along the lines
4B-
4B of Fig. 4.
Fig. 4C is a top view of the front housing of the first embod'unent.
19
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Fig. 4D is an enlarged rear perspective view of the front housing of the first
embodiment.
Fig. 4E is a cross-sectional view of the rotatable collar (faucet adapter) and
the
lock collar Nvhich is secured to the front housing.
Fig. 4F is a cross-sectional view of the aerator mounted into the front
housing.
Fig. 4G is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 4G-4G of Fig. 2 with
the
flow diverter valve inserted in the front housing in a first position, bypass
position.
Fig. 4H is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 4H-4H of Fig. 2A with
the flow diverter valve inserted in the front housing in a second position
which directs
t o ilow into the filter.
Fig. 5 is a front perspective view of the filter housing of the first
embodiment
of the water filtration device.
Fig. 5A is a front view of the filter housing of the first embodiment of the
water
filtration device.
Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the filter housing taken along the lines
5B-
5B of Fig. 5A.
Fig. 5C is a cross-sectional view of the filter housing taken along the lines
5C-
5C of Fig. 5A.
Fig. 5D is a cross-sectional view of the filter housing taken along the lines
5D-
2o 5D of Fig. 5A.
Fig. 5E is a bottom view of the filter housing of the first embodiment of the
water filtration device.
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 5F is a left side view, the open end view, of the filter housing of the
first
embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the valve and its handle which are used in
both
the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 6A is a perspective view of the other side of the valve and its handle of
Fig. 6.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the electronic package (electric circuit),
sensor
and light emitting diode used in the first and second embodiments of the water
filtration device.
Fig. 7A is a side view of the electronic package (electric circuit), sensor
and
light emitting diode package of Fig. 7.
Fig. 8 is a side view of the housin.g end cap.
Fig. 8A is a perspective view of the other side, i.e., he wetted side, of the
housing end cap illustrated in Fig. 8.
is Fig. 9 is a front view of the gate of the first embodiment.
Fig. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 9A-9A of Fig. 9.
Fig. 9B is a front view of another embodiment of the gate having a conical
protrusion extending therefrom as well as a cylindrical extrusion extending
therefrom.
Fig. 9C is a cross-sectional view of the gate taken along the lines 9C-9C of
Fig.
9B.
Fig. 9D is a rear view of the embodiment of the gate illustrated in Fig. 9B.
Fig. 10 is a front view of the left end cap of the filter.
21
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. l0A is cross-sectional view of the left end cap of the filter taken along
the
lines l0A-l0A of Fig. 10.
Fig. l OB is a front view of another embodiment of the left end cap of the
filter.
Fig. l OC is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the left end cap of
the
filter of Fig: l OB taken along the lines l OB-l OB.
Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the plunger used in conjunction with the
lever
and elastomeric ball valve.
Fig. 11 A is a another perspective view of the plunger used in conjunction
with
the lever and elastomeric ball valve.
Fig. 11 B is a top view of the plunger.
Fig. 11 C is a cross-sectional view of the plunger taken along the lines 11 C-
11 C
of Fig. 11B.
Fig. 11D is a cross-sectional view talce : along the lines 11D-11 D of Fig.
11B.
Fig. 12 is a front view of the ball valve.
Fig. 12A is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 12A-12A of Fig. 12.
Fig. 13 is a top view of the lever used to operate the plunger of the first
embodiment.
Fig. 13A is a cross-sectional view of the lever taken along the lines 13A-13A
of Fig. 13.
Fig. 13B is a perspective view of the underside of the lever of Fig. 13.
Fig. 14 is a front view of the fountain head.
22
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 14A-14A of the
fountain head of Fig. 14.
Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a second embodiment of the
invention.
s Fig. 15A is an exploded perspectiveview of a fourth embodiment of the
invention.
Fig. 16 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the water filtration
device.
Fig. 16A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the water filtration
1 o device with the valve handle pulled forward.
Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the water
filtration device taken along the lines 17-17 of Fig. 16.
Fig. 17A is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the water
filtration device similar to Fig. 17 except the gate is shown rotated clock-
wise in the
15 flow condition.
Fig. 17B is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the water
filtration device.
Fig. 17C is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the water
filtration device with the gate shown rotated into the open position.
20 Fig. 18 is a perspective view of the front housing of the second
embodiment.
Fig. 18A is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18A-18A of Fig. 18.
Fig. 18B is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18B-18B of Fig. 18.
23
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 18C is a top view of the front housing of the second embodiment.
Fig. 18D is a rear perspective view of the front housing of the second
embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 18E is a cross-sectional taken along the lines 18E-18E of Fig. 16 with
the
flow diverter valve inserted in the front housing in a first position, bypass
position.
Fig. 18F is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18F-18F of Fig. 16A
with the flow diverter valve inserted in the front housing in a second
position which
directs flow into the filter.
Fig. 19 is a front perspective view of the filter housing of the second
i o embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 19A is a bottom view of the of the filter housing of the second
embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 19B is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 19B-19B of Fig. 19A.
Fig. 19C is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 19C-19C of Fig. 19C.
is Fig. 19D is a left side view, the open end view, of the filter housing of
the
second embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 20 is a front side view of the end cap of the housing of the second
embodiment of the water filtration device.
Fig. 20A is a right side view of the end cap of Fig. 20.
20 Fig. 20B is a perspective view of the end cap of Fig. 20.
Fig. 20C is a view of the left side of the end cap of Fig. 20.
Fig. 20D is another perspective view of the end cap.
24
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 21 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 21A is a generally front perspective view of another embodiment of the
invention.
Fig. 21B is a generally rear perspective view of another embodiment of the
~ invention.
Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 22-22 of Figs. 21A and
21B illustrating the lever not depressed and no flow through the filter.
Fig. 22A is an enlargement of a portion of Fig. 22 illustrating the valve and
tube.
Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view similar to Fig. 22 illustrating the path of
the
filtered water with the lever and valve not actuated but with flow of water
through the
filter.
Fig. 23A is an end vie,,N, of the water filtration device absent the filter
housing
end cap with the lever and the valve not actuated.
Fig. 23B is a cross-sectional view similar to Fig. 23 illustrating the patli
of the
filtered water with the lever and the valve actuated.
Fig. 23C is an enlargement of a portion of Fig. 23B.
Fig. 23D is an end view of the water filtration device absent the filter
housing
end cap with the lever and the valve actuated.
Fig. 24 is an end view of the invention illustrating the rotation of the
second
adjustably rotatable member.
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 24A is a top view of the invention illustrating the rotation of the first
adjustably rotatable member.
Fig. 25 is a perspective view of the gate illustrated in Fig. 21 et seq.
Fig. 25A is a side view of the gate of Fig. 25.
Fig. 25B is a cross-sectional view of the gate of Fig. 25.
Fig. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of the first and second adjustably
rotatable members.
Fig. 26A is a perspective view of the second adjustably rotatable member.
Fig. 26B is a cross-sectional view of the second adjustably rotatable member
io taken along the lines 26B-26B of Fig. 26A.
Fig. 26C is a perspective view of the first adjustably rotatable member.
Fig. 26D is a cross-sectional view of the first adjustably rotatable member
taken along the lines 26D-26D of Fig. 26C.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view of the tube.
i5 Fig. 27A is a view of the tube as viewed in Fig. 22.
Fig. 27B is a view of the tube as viewed in Fig. 23A.
Fig. 27C is a view of the tube of the tube from the other side of Fig. 27A.
Fig. 27D is a view of the tube from the other side of Fig. 27B.
Fig. 27 E is a top view of the tube.
20 Fia. 27F is a bottom view of the tube.
Fig. 28 is an end view of the filter housing end cap.
Fig. 28A is a perspective view of the filter housing end cap.
26
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 28B is a view of the entire of the filter housing end cap illustrating
the first
and second stops.
Fig. 28C is a view of the filter housing end cap with the battery, the
electronic
package, the LED, and a removable nonconductive tab beneath a battery contact
in a
dry chamber therein.
Fig. 29 is a view of one of the filter end caps illustrating the gate hinge
and the
rotation prevention protrusions.
Fig. 29A is a side view of one of the filter end cap of Fig. 29.
Fig. 29B is a filter side view of the end cap of Fig. 29
Fig. 29C is a front side view of the end cap of Fig. 29.
Fig. 30 is a top view of the lever.
Fig. 30A is a cross-sectional view of the lever taken along the lines 30A-30A
of Fig. 30.
Fig. 30B is a bottom perspective view of the lever.
Fig. 30C is a front view of the plunger.
Fig. 31 is a view of the battery, the electronic package, the LED, and a
removable nonconductive tab beneath a battery contact.
Fig. 31A is another view of the battery, the electronic package, the LED, and
a
removable nonconductive tab beneath a battery contact.
A better understanding of the drawings will be had when reference is made to
the Description of the Invention and Claims which follow hereinbelow.
Description of the Invention
27
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Referring to Fig. 1, an exploded assembly view of a first embodiment of the
water filtration device 100, the various components of the single-use faucet
mounted
water filter are shown. Filter 113 is illustrated having a longitudinal bore
129
therethrough. Filter 113 is illustrated without a filter pre-wrap in this view
but such a
pre-wrap 495 is specifically within the scope of this invention and is
illustrated in
Figs. 4G and 4H. The filter is preferably a carbon block but may be a fiber
bundle or
granular activated carbon. Further, the carbon block may include bacteriastic
materials, ion exchange resins and zeolites to assist in its filtration
activity. End caps
114 and 115 are affixed to said filter with a hot melt adhesive applied to the
entire
lo mating surfaces of end caps 114 and 115 including but not limited to the
dowel
portions thereof such as dowel 130A on right end cap 130. Once filter 113 is
affixed
to end caps of filter 114, 115, the subassembly is inserted into the filter
housing 101.
End caps 114, 115 include peripheral seal portions which seal annulus 301. See
Fig. 3
for example. 0-rings 375, 376 ensure that water entering annulus 301 flow
through
ts filter 113 and does not bypass the end caps 114, 115 and migrate into
chamber 350.
See, Fig. 3D. To ensure that the subassembly is properly oriented, gate hinges
132,
132A must be aligned in relation to a mark 160 on the filter housing as the
subassembly is inserted into the filter housing 101. Gate hinges 132, 132A are
properly positioned when their axis is parallel to the earth or parallel to a
tangent of
20 the earth's surface.
Referrinj to Fig. 5F, the left side view (open end view) of the filter housina
101 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device, the concave right
side wall
28
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
508 of the filter housing 101 is illustrated along with molded ribs 515. In
this the first
embodiment the diameter of the filter housing 101 is approximately 1.6 inches
and the
length of the filter housing as viewed, for example, in Figs. 5 and 5A, is
approximately 4.2 inches. Other dimensions may be utilized in the construction
of
s water filtration devices as taught herein without departing from the spirit
and scope of
the invention. When the filter subassembly is inserted into the filter housing
the right
end cap abuts ribs 515.
Gate 118 is rotatably affixed to gate hinges 132, 132A by inserting prongs or
knobs 133, 133A in the hinges. Knobs or prongs 133, 133A are snap-fit into
apertures
in the hinges 132, 132A enabling rotation of the gate 118 when water pushes
against it
as it exits the filter. As will be explained in more detail hereinafter, gate
118 swings
(rotates) in a clockwise direction about its axis of rotation (see Figs. 3B
and 3C) upon
the application of pressure caused by water flow through the f lter 113 and
the
longitudinal bore 129 therein.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 3, gate 118 includes a magnet 117 which is press fit
into a recess 134 in the gate and hermetically sealed with either hot melt
adhesive or
potting compound. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view 300 of the first embodiment
of the
water filtration device taken along the lines 3-3 of Fig. 2. Presence or
absence of
magnet 117 is sensed by reed switch (reed relay) 135. Housing end cap 102
includes
2n spacers 142 and 143. See Fig. 8A, a perspective view of the end cap to best
view the
spacer 142 which is not well illustrated in the exploded assembly view of Fig.
1.
Spacers 142, 143 assist in correctly spacing the housing end cap 102 with
respect to
'9
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
the left end cap 114 of the filter. Once housing end cap 102 is inserted into
the filter
housing 101, spacers 142, 143 ensure that the filter subassembly comprising
the filter
113, left end cap 114 and right end cap 115 does not migrate leftwardly (See
Fig. 3)
too far and remains in proximity to the mold ribs 515 of the interior of the
housing.
Housing end cap 102 includes a tapered portion 190 for insertion into the
filter
housing 101. A chamber is formed between the end cap 114 aiid the closed end
803A
of the housing end cap 102. See, Fig. 3. Water is expelled from passageway 141
in the
left end cap 114 of the filter housing and exerts a force against gate 118
causing it to
rotate in a clockwise direction. As gate 118 rotates in the clockwise
direction the
to magnet 117 is urged toward the reed switch 135 (reed relay) causing it to
effectively
close which starts the electronic timer within electronic package 112 to
continuously
measure the time when the magnet 117 is in proximity to the switch. The
electronic
package (electric circuit or integrated circuit) measures the cumulative time
of flow
through the filter and outputs signals to the light emitting diode (LED)
indicating filter
performance. The LED indicates three colors representative of cumulative
filter usage
one of which indicates that the water filtration device should be discarded.
The
electric circuit outputs three discrete signals to the light emitting diode.
The electronic package is secured in a dry well 170 which in turn is secured
and closed by end plate 116. After the housing end cap 102 is installed it is
welded to
the filter housing 101. The end plate 116 is glued or ultrasonically welded to
the
housing end cap 102. That is, the housing end cap 102 is welded to the filter
housing
and the end plate 116 is welded or glued to the housing end cap 102. Reference
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
numeral 139.represents the raised portions of the end plate 116 which are
ultrasonically welded or glued to the housing end cap 102.
Referring to Fig. 3 again, reference numerals 302, 303, 130, 131 signify
peripheral edges or portions of the end caps 114, 115 of the filter which
slidingly
engage and seal against the interior walls of the filter housing 101.
Referring to Fig.
3D, elastomeric seal 375 acts as an additional optional seal which resides
between
peripheral edge portions 302 and 131 and elastomeric sea1376 acts as an
additional
optional seal which resides between peripheral edge portions 303 and 130.
Still referring to Fig. 1, aperture 137 permits light emitting diode 136 which
io stems from the electronic package 112 to pass therethrough. A small amount
of
potting compound may be used around the light emitting diode to seal any space
between the diode and the aperture 137 when the light emitting diode is
installed in
place. The electronic package 112 and the substrate upon which the electronics
are
mounted are housed in a dry space in the housing end cap 102.
Referring to Figs. 1 and 5, the filter housing 101 including its inlet 125,
filtered
outlet 107A, and filtered outlet 180 are illustrated. Filtered outlet 107A
always
expels filtered water whenever water enters the filter housing inlet 125. See,
Fig. 4H.
Inlet 125 is generally cylindrically shaped and includes a recess 126 for
receiving an
O-ring seal 502 and a passageway 505 for conducting unfiltered water to the
interior
of the filter housing so that it can be filtered by filter 113. Filter 113 is
a carbon
block filter and it is necessary that the water to be filtered have a certain
residence
time in contact with the filter so that impurities therein can be removed.
31
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
The preferred materials of the front housing 103, filter housing 101 and
housing end cap 102 are ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastic although
other
plastics may be used. The preferred adhesive to be used for securing the end
caps
114, 115 to the filter is a hot melt adhesive. The gate material is HDPE (high
density
polyethylene). End caps 114, 115 are also HDPE and the material used for
sealing.
Lever 122 is preferably an acetyl material.
Fig. 5 is a front perspective view 500 of the filter housing 101 of the first
embodiment of the water filtration device, i.e., a bathroom filter. Fig. 5
illustrates an
inlet surface 504 adapted to receive a corresponding mating surface 190 from
the
io housing end cap 102. See, Fig. 1 to identify the corresponding mating
surface 190 on
the housing end cap 102.
Referring again to Fig. 5, the filter housing 101 includes a recessed region
501
for receiving the front housi.L-ig 103 as best seen in Figs. 1, 2 and 4G.
Engagement
pins 127, 128 assist in positioning the front housing 103 with respect to the
recessed
region 501 for ultrasonic welding thereto. It is the ultrasonic welding of the
front
housing 103 to the filter housing which secures the parts together and makes
them into
an integral unit.
Pins 127, 128 fit snugly into corresponding receptacles 420, 419 in the front
housing. Referring to Fig. 4D, a rear perspective view 400D of the front
housing of
2o the first embodiment (bathroom filter) is illustrated along with the
receptacles 420,
419. Reference numerals 415, 417 and 418 indicate mold cavities which are
formed
as a part of the molding process of the front housing 103. Joint 421 is welded
to the
32
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
filter housing 101. Further, referring to Figs. 4G and 5, 0-ring seal 502
which resides
in recess 126 mates with cylindrical recess 410 in the front housing 103 as
illustrated
in Fig. 4D to prevent leaka?e of water as it is being directed into the filter
housing as
will be explained hereinbelow.
Fig. 5A is a front view 500A of the filter housing 101 of the first embodiment
=.
of the water filtration device. The right end 508 is closed and is convexly
shaped
when viewed from the outside of the filter housing. Viewing the interior of
the right
end 508 as in Fig. 5F, it is shaped concavely. During assembly of the device,
the
water filter 113 with end caps attached thereto is inserted from the left
side, the open
t0 side, of the filter housing 101.
Fig. 5B is a cross-sectional view 500B of the filter housing taken along the
lines 5B-5B of Fig. 5A. Fig. 5B provides a good illustration of recess 126 in
inlet 125
and of pin 128. Outlets 180 and 107A are also illustrated in Fig. 5B.
Fig. 5C is a cross-sectional view 500C of the filter housing taken along the
lines 5C-5C of Fig. 5A. Outlet port 180 is illustrated in cross-section as
having two
diametrical sections 503 and 506. Likewise, outlet port 107A is illustrated as
having
two diametrical sections 519 and 507.
Fig. 5D is a cross-sectional view 500D of the filter housing taken along the
lines 5D-5D of Fig. 5A. Fig. 5D illustrates the recessed region 501 in filter
housing
101. Also illustrated in Fig. 5D is the inlet 125 having passageway 505
therein.
Fig. 5E is a bottom view 500E of the filter housing of the first embodiment of
the water filtration device illustrating diametrical portions 507, 519 of
outlet 107A.
=3
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 5E illustrates that outlet 107A resides generally forwardly in the filter
housing.
Outlet 107A includes spout 107 which is affixed through an ultrasonic weld or
by
gluing same to the filter housing 101. See, Fig. 1.
Fig. 2 is a perspective view 200 of a first embodiment of the water filtration
device. Referring to Figs. 1, 2, 4, and 4E, collar lock 105 is inserted within
collar 1.04
and is welded to surface 401 of front housing 103. Fig. 4 is an enlargement
400 of the
front housing of the first embodiment of the water filtration device. Fig. 4E
is a cross-
sectional view 400E of the collar 104, collar lock 105 and screen 110. Screen
110
includes an elastomeric generally circular periphery and a convexly shaped
screen
io portion 110A. Collar 104 may rotate with respect to collar lock 105 in the
connection
and disconnection process with a faucet. The faucet (not shown) seals on the
elastomeric portion of the screen 110. Screen 110 assists in removing large
particulate
maiter.
Referring still to Fig. 2, front housing 103 is illustrated in its assembled
condition welded to the filter housing 101. Valve and valve handle 108 are
illustrated
in the first or bypass position. Fig. 4G is a cross-sectional view 400G taken
along the
lines 4G-4G of Fig. 2 with the flow diverter valve 108 inserted in the front
housing in
a first position, bypass position. Flow arrow 470 indicates the path flow will
take
through the front housing when the water bypasses the filter. Fig. 4H is a
cross-
sectional view 400H taken along the lines 4H-4H of Fig. 2A with the flow
diverter
valve 108 inserted in the front housing in a second position which directs
flow into the
filter. Flow arrow 471 indicates the path of flow through the front housing
when the
34
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
diverter valve 108 is rotated counterclockwise when viewing Fig. 4H to a
second
position. Referring to Fig. 2A, valve and valve handle 108 are pulled forward
to the
second position when it is desired to filter the water.
Referring again to Figs. 4G and H, elastomeric seal 450 is illustrated as
sealing
passageways 603 and 610 in valve 108. Passageway 610 is formed by wall 611 and
passageway 603 is formed by wall 605 which is liorn shaped. See, Fig. 6, a
perspective view 600 of the valve and its handle 108 which are used in both
the first
embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration device. The
handle
portion of the valve includes an insert 109 which may glued to a corresponding
recess
109A in the handle. See, Fig. 1.
Fig. 4A is a cross-sectional view 400A taken along the lines 4A-4A of Fig. 4
illustrating the generally cylindrical wa11401 to which the collar lock 105 is
welded.
Fig. 4E is a cross-sectional view 400E illustrating the collar lock 105
secured to the
wall 401 with the collar 104 being rotatable and movable slightly vertically
for
engagement with a faucet. Screen 110 is also illustrated in Fig. 4A.
Referring again to Fig. 4A, valve 108 is not shown therein so as to view the
valve stop 407 which controls the rotation of the valve between its first
(bypass
position) and its second (filter) position. Valve cavity 430 is tapered as it
extends
inwardly as indicated by circular lines 412 and 431. See, Figs. 4A and 4B.
Ports 403
2o and 408 join to form a water inlet to the valve cavity 430. Water outlet
409 conveys
water to be filtered when the front housing is nonremovably affixed to the
filter
housing 101 and the valve 108 is in its second position. Fig. 4B is a cross-
sectional
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
view 400B taken along the lines 4B-4B of Fig. 4 and also illustrates the taper
of valve
cavity 430.
Referring again to Figs. 4A and 4B, recess 416 is illustrated for receiving a
seal
640 on the valve 108 illustrated in Fig. 6. Bypass port or passageway 414 is
illustrated in Figs. 4A and 4B. Stop 407 is also illustrated in Fig. 4B as is
recess 410
for receiving inlet 125 of the filter housing 101. Referring to Fig. 4A mold
aperture
415 from the molding process is illustrated in cross section. Fig. 4C is a top
view
400C of the front housing 103 of the first embodiment and also illustrates the
ports
403 and 408.
lo Fig. 4 is an enlargement 400 of the front housing 103 of the first
embodiment
of the water filtration device illustrating wall 401 to which the collar lock
105 is
welded. Ports 403, 408 in floor 404 are shown in the top of the housing as are
mold
openings 402. Recess 416 in valve cavity 431 is shown as is rim 406 which is
welded
to the filter housing 101. Recess 416 receives seal 640 on valve 108 so as to
prevent
leakage about valve 108.
Referring again to Figs. I and 4A, bottom portion 103A of the front housing is
illustrated along with bore 422 having stepped portions 429 and 413. Bore 422
receives aerator assembly 111/111A and spout 106 secures the aerator assembly
in
place as it is welded to the bottom portion 103A of the housing 103. See, Fig.
4F, a
cross-sectional view 400F of the aerator assembly 111/111A mounted into the
front
housing.
36
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Referring to Figs. 3-3D, reference numerals 302, 303, 131, and 130 indicate
sliding engagement of the filter end caps 114, 115 with the filter housing
101.
Referring again to Figs. 1 and 3, second outlet 180 in the filter housing 101
is
disclosed. Alignment mark 160 is also illustrated well in Fig. 1 and it is
this mark
which is used during assembly to ensure that the left filter end cap 114 and
hinges
132/132A are positioned such that the axis of the hinges are parallel to the
earth
enabling gate 118 to swing freely upon the application of pressure thereto and
not to
bind. Plunger 120 having a passageway 120A therein fits somewhat snugly within
second outlet 180 and is slidingly movable therein. Lever 122 resides in
engagement
io with the plunger 120 such that the plunger 120 and lever 122 move together.
Referring to Fig. 2, lever 122 is hinged and pivotal on prongs or protrusions
138 of the
housing end cap 102. Like lever 108, lever 122 has a decorative insert 123
which
resides in a corresponding recess. Fountain head 119 resides in and through
passageway 122A in lever 122. Fountain 119 includes a passageway 119A in
communication with passageway 120A in plunger 120. Passageway 120A is exposed
to fluid under pressure in chamber 350 when the plunger is depressed by lever
122.
Plunger 120 includes a shoe portion 1104. Fig. 11 is a perspective view 1100
of the plunger 120 used in conjunction with the lever 122 and elastomeric ball
valve
121. Plunger 120 includes a cylindrical portion 1103 and a shaft 1105 with a
shoe
2.0 1 104 on the end thereof. A flat extending portion 1101 of the plunger
resides against a
corresponding surface of the lever 122. A taper 1102 leads to passageway 120A.
37
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 1 lA is a another perspective view 1100A of the bottom side of the
plunger
120 used in conjunction with the lever 122 and elastomeric ball valve 121.
Contoured
side edge portion 1150 of plunger 120 engages lever 122. Passageway 120A and
bottom side 1106 of the flat extending portion 1101 are best viewed in Fig. 11
A.
Spring 124 is operable between the bottom side 1106 of plunger and a lip 570
of the
filter housing. See Fig. 3, a cross-sectional view 300 of the first embodiment
of the
water filtration device taken along the lines 3-3 of Fig. 2. In Fig. 3, the
filter is not
operating meaning that the diverter valve 108 is in the bypass (first)
position.
Fig. 11 B is a top view 1100B of the plunger 120 illustrating the passageway
i20A. Fig. 11C is a cross-sectional view 1100C of the plunger 120 taken along
the
lines 11 C-11 C of Fig. 11 B. Fig. 11 D is a cross-sectional view 1100D taken
along the
lines 11D-11D of Fig. 11B.
Fi;. 12 is a front view 1200 of the ball valve 121. Fig. 12A is a cross
sectional
view 1200A taken along the lines 12A-12A of Fig. 12. Shoe 1104 is covered by
elastomeric valve 121 which includes a cavity which is substantially
reciprocally
shaped to the shape of the shoe. Elastomeric valve of boot 121 includes a
surface
1202 which engages the interior of the filter housing around passageway 506.
See,
Figs. 5C and 3.
Fig. 3A is an enlargement 300A of a portion of Fig. 3 illustrating the valve
121
PnQage~l with the inner wall of housing 101. Spring 124 is operable between
filter
-~-~ -
housing 101 and plunger 120 and urges the plunger and the lever upwardly when
viewing Figs. 3 and 3A.
38
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Still referring to Fig. 3, an annular space 301 between the filter 113 and the
filter housing 101 is illustrated. Water occupies this annular space 301
during
operation of the filter. Water resides in this annulus and flows through
filter 113 into
passageway 129 and out port 141 impinging upon gate 118 rotating it clockwise.
When the water filtration device of the first embodiment is operable, water
will be
expelled from both outlets 107A and 180 if lever 122 is depressed. If the
lever is not
depressed then elastomeric valve 121 is seated against the curved inner
surface of the
filter housing 101 and water will be expelled just from the outlet 107A. Valve
121 is
preferably elastomeric but may be made of other materials such as metal.
Similarly,
to the filter housing may be made of metal if desired and the valve can be
made of metal
as well. Fig. 3 illustrates spacer 142 extending from the closed end 803A of
housing
end cap 102 near the filter left end cap 114. Fig. 8 is a side view 800 of
housing end
cap 102. Closed end 803 is a wall or boundary between the wetted chamber 350
and
the electronic package 112 and sensor 135. Guide ribs 801, 802 and 810 enable
placement of the generally-rectangularly shaped electronic package within the
drywell
811 of the housing end cap 102. End plate 116 fits over the opening 811 of the
end
cap and is either welded or glued 139 to the end cap for hermetic sealing
thereof.
During assembly the light emitting diode 136 is carefully placed within the
aperture
137 first followed by the electronic package 112 which is placed within
opening 811.
2o Fig. 8A is a perspective view 800A of the other side, i.e., the wetted
side, of the end
cap illustrated in Fig. 8. Sloped surface 190 which is welded to filter
housing 101 is
illustrated in Fig. 8A.
39
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 3B is a cross-sectional view 300B of the first embodiment of the water
filtration device with the fountain lever 122 depressed and valve 121 off its
seat. It
will be noticed that plunger 120 bends slightly when lever 122 is depressed.
This
bending tends to seal the passageway denoted by reference numeral 506. Gate
118 is
shown rotated clockwise due to water flow out of passageway 141. In this
position,
gate 118 and magnet 117 are in proximity to reed switch 135. Fig. 3C is an
enlargement 300C of a portion of Fig. 3B and illustrates the flow path 391 of
water
past valve 121, through passageway 120A of plunger 120 and through passageway
199A of fountain 119. It will be noticed in Figs. 3, 3A, 3B and 3C that outlet
107A is
io not shown therein as it is located fore (ahead) with respect to the cross-
section of these
drawing figures.
Fig. 6 is a perspective view 600 of the valve 108 and its handle which are
used
in both the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration
device.
Fig. 6 illustrates the underside (the side that is not exposed) when viewing
Fig. 2.
Reference numeral 612 illustrates a cavity from the molding process. Reference
numeral 609 indicates the handle portion of the valve 108 and reference
numera1608
indicates the other or second end of the valve 108. Ridges 602 engage stop 407
to
limit the rotation of the valve between its first bypass position and its
second filter
position. A horn shaped passageway 603 is formed by wa11605. Wall 606 creates
an
arinuliis 604 in which a seal (not shown in Fia. 6) is positioned. A seal 450
is
positioned in annulus 604 as indicated in Figs. 4G and 4H. A groove 607
resides in
the valve 108 for receiving a seal (not shown in Fig. 6) which prevents
leakage of
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
water from the valve 108 when it inserted in the front housing 103. Fig. 6A is
a
perspective view 600A of the exposed side of the valve and its handle 108 as
viewed
in Fig. 2. Fig. 6A illustrates seal 640 in groove 607 for sealing the valve
108 which is
snap fit in the front housing.
Fig. 7 is a perspective view 700 of the electronic package 112, battery 701,
sensor 135, leads 702, 703 and light emitting diode 136 used in the first and
second
embodiments of the water filtration device. In the preferred embodiment sensor
135 is
a reed switch also known as a reed relay. However, those skilled in the art
will readily
recognize that different sensors based on capacitance principles,
piezoelectric
lo principles, or induction principles may be employed with some
modifications. Fig.
7A is a side view 700A of the electronic package illustrated in Fig. 7.
Fig. 9 is a front view 900 of gate 118 of the first embodiment. Recess 134
receives magnet 117 which actuates reed switch 135 when in proximity
therewith.
Prongs or knobs 134 interengage corresponding hinges 134 as illustrated in
Figs. 1
is and 3. Fig. 9A is a cross-sectional view 900 taken along the lines 9A-9A of
Fig. 9.
Fig. 9A illustrates the contour of the gate 118 which includes front 903 and
rear 902
surfaces. Sloping surface 904 diverges to body 905 having recess 134 in which
magnet 117 is housed. Locks 901 secure magnet 117 in place. The magnet is
installed by simply pushing on the magnet to orient it past the locks 901
which are
20 plastic and somewhat malleable enabling insertion of the magnet into the
plastic. The
magnet is then hermetically sealed with potting compound.
41
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 10 is a front view 1000 of the left end cap 114 of the filter 113. Hinges
132/132A are illustrated in Figs. 10 and 10A. Fig. l0A is cross-sectional view
1000A
of the left end cap of the filter taken along the lines l0A-l0A of Fig. 10
illustrating the
hinges 132/132A, passageway 141, dowel 1001, and protrusions 1002 and 1003
which
slidingly seal with respect to the filter housing. Peripheral end portion such
as the one
denoted by reference numeral 131 are relatively soft and seal against the
interior of the
filter housing.
Fig. 13 is a top view 1300 of the lever 122 used to operate the plunger 120 of
the first embodiment. Reference numeral 1301 indicates a recess in which
insert 123
io is secured by adhesive. Apertures or hinges 140/140A engage prongs or
protrusions
138 for pivoting as previously described. Fig. 13A is a cross-sectional view
of the
lever 122 taken along the lines 13A-13A of Fig. 13 also illustrates the
aperture 140A.
Cavities 1302 and 1303 are illustrated in Fig. 13A. Cavity 1303 fits over flat
portion
1101 of plunger 120. See, Fig. 11.
~s Fig. 13B is a perspective view 1300B which illustrates the underside of the
lever 122 of Fig. 13. Cavity 1303 and wall 1304 of cavity 1303 are
illustrated. Flat
portion 1101 of plunger 120 fits into cavity 1303.
Fig. 14 is a front view 1400 of the fountain head 119 illustrating flanges
1401
and 1402. Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view 1400A taken along the lines 14A-
14A of
2o tbP foõntain head 119 of Fig. 14. Flange 1402 is snap-fit into place in
lever 122 as is
best seen in Fig. 3. Fountain head 119 is made of plastic. Spring 124 is
illustrated in
42
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. I as operable between seat 570 and surface 1106. See, Figs. 3, 5C and 11
C. Fig.
3 illustrates valve 121 seated against seat 330.
Figs. 1-14 are directed toward the first embodiment of the invention. Some of
the uses of the first embodiment of the invention are in bathrooms, hotel and
motel
rooms. The device disclosed is small'and convenient for storage on vacations
and
business trips. Figs. 15-20 are directed toward the second embodiment of the
invention. Use of the second embodiment include kitchen and bar uses. Both
embodiments are designed such that the filter sits rearwardly with respect to
the faucet
so that access to the faucet and the filter is permitted.
The reference numerals used in Fig. 15 correspond generally to the reference
numerals used in Fig. 1 such that for example reference numerals 101 and 1501
both
indicate filter housings.
Fig. 15 is an exploded perspective view 1500 of a second embodiment of the
invention. Filter housing 1501 may have, for example, a diameter of 2.40
inches and
a length of approximately 3.90 inches. One of the principal differences in the
kitchen
filter of the second embodiment is that it has only one filtered outlet 1507A
whereas
the bathroom unit has two filtered outlets 107A and 180. Filters 1513 and 113
may be
pre-wrapped 495 using a hot seal method. See, Figs. 4G and 4H. Adhesive is
applied
to the filter end caps 1514, 1515, then attached to the filter after which the
2e subassembly is inserted into the filter housing. Peripheral seal portions
of end caps
1514, 1515 seal the filter. Optionally, 0-rings 375, 376 may be used to seal
the filter
so as to prevent unfiltered water from entering chamber 1750. See, Fig. 17. As
in the
43
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
case of the bathroom filter, the aerator assembly 1511 and spout 1506 are
affixed in
the front housing 1503 as previously illustrated. As also in the case of the
bathroom
filter, the collar lock 1505 is welded to the front housing 1503 and collar
1504 is
permitted to rotate with respect to the collar lock. The screen assembly is
inserted into
the assembly atop the collar lock. Gate 1518 is slightly dimensionally
different than
the gate 118 previously described but it functions in the same way as gate
118.
Spacers 1542 and 1543 extend from end cap 1502 and serve to ensure that gate
1518
remains in alignment.
Electronic package 112 is the same package used in the first embodiment. Reed
to switch 135 (or reed relay as it sometimes known) senses the proximity of
magnet 1517
and the electronic package measures the total time of flow. Instead of a reed
switch
which is a magnetically coupled device, a capacitance based device or a
pressure-
sensitive device may be used instead. T'ne pressure sensitive device would
have to
mounted in the closed end of the housing end cap 1502.
Valve 108 illustrated in Fig. 15 is the same valve used in the bathroom filter
of
the first embodiment. Spacers 1542, 1543 of the housing end cap 1502 assist in
ensuring that the filter subassembly is in place. Referring to Fig. 17, a gap
(unnumbered) exists between the spacer 1543 and the end cap 1514 of the
filter.
Spacer limits the movement of the filter subassembly such that it cannot move
2o '.eftwa.rdly toe far b+efere engaging the spacers. End plate 1516 is alued
or welded to
the housing end cap 102. Housing end cap 102 is glued or welded to the filter
housing
1501.
44
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 16 is a perspective view 1600 of the second embodiment of the water
filtration device. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view 1700 of the second
embodiment of
the water filtration device taken along the lines 17-17 of Fig. 16. Fig. 17A
is a cross-
sectional view 1700A of the second embodiment of the water filtration device
similar
to Fig. 17 except the gate 1518 is shown rotated clockwise in the flow
condition.
Annulus 1701 is illustrated in Fig. 17A. Water resides in this annulus and
flow thru
filter 1513 into passageway 1529 and out port 1541 impinging upon gate 1518
rotating it clockwise.
Referring to Figs. 15 and 17, filter end caps 1514 and 1515 have peripheral
end
to portions (i.e., 1531 and 1530) which are seals which seal against the
interior diameter
of the filter housing 1501. Although not shown in Fig. 17, optional
elastomeric 4-
ring seals similar to 375, 376 may be used between the peripheral end seals as
illustrated in Fig. 3D.
Fig. 18 is a perspective view 1800 of the front housing of the second
embodiment. Fig. 18 employs reference numerals like Fig. 4. Fig. 18A is a
cross-
sectional view taken along the lines 18A-18A of Fig. 18. Reference numeral
1801
indicates the wall to which the collar lock 1505 is welded and reference
numeral 1804
indicates the floor upon which the collar lock 1804 sits at the time it is
welded. Mold
recesses 1802 are from the molding process. Groove or recess 1816 receives the
seal
.1-cm the valve 108. Cavity 1831 receives the valve 108. Referring to Fig.
18A, stop
4c f
1807A is illustrated which engages ridges 602 on valve 108. Stop 1807A is also
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
illustrated in Fig. 18B, a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18B-18B
of Fig.
18. Tapered bore 1812 is illustrated by the circular lines in Fig. 18A.
Bore 1822 includes stepped portions 1813 and 1829. Inlet 1808 is shown
leading to valve cavity 1831. Outlet 1814 and outlet 1809 are also shown in
Fig. 18A.
When valve 108 is positioned as illustrated in Fig. 18E inlet 1808 is
connected to
outlet 1814 and the water passes through front housing 1503 and is expelled
unfiltered. Flow arrow 1870 depicts the path of flow through front housing
1503.
When the valve 108 is positioned as illustrated in Fig. 18F inlet 1808 is
connected to
outlet 1809 where it is directed into the filter by inlet 1525 of the filter
housing 1501.
io See, Fig. 16A a perspective view of a second embodiment of the water
fltration
device with the valve handle pulled forward. Flow arrow 1871 depicts the path
of flow
through front housing 1503 and into inlet 1525 of the filter housing.
Referring to Fig. 18B, valve cavity 1831 is illustrated as is stop 1807A and
the
cross-sectional portion 1807 of the stop. Unfiltered outlet 1814 is also
depicted. Fig.
18C is a top view 1800C of the front housing 1503 of the second embodiment.
Fig.
18D is a rear perspective view 1800D of the front housing of the second
embodiment
of the water filtration device. Fig. 18D illustrates receptacles 1819 and 1820
of the
front housing which engage pins 1528 and 1527 respectively. Mold recesses from
the
molding process are indicated by reference numerals 1817, 1818, 1823, 1824 and
2; 1825. ?~in 1821 is welded tc) thQ filter housing.
Fig. 19 is a front perspective view 1900 of the filter housing of the second
embodiment of the water filtration device. Surface 1904 engages the
corresponding
46
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
surface on the housing end cap 1502. Recess 1901 engages the perimeter of the
front
housing. Fig. 19A is a bottom view 1900A of the of the filter housing 1501 of
the
second embodiment of the water filtration device. Fig. 19B is a cross-
sectional view
1900B taken along the lines 19B-19B of Fig. 19A illustrating port 1907 from
which
filtered water is expelled.
Fig. 19C is a cross-sectional view 1900C taken along the lines 19C-19C of Fig.
19C illustrating passageway 1905 in inlet 1525 of the filter housing 1501.
Fig. 19D is
a left side view 1900D, the open end view, of the filter housing 1501 of the
second
embodiment of the water filtration device illustrating mold prongs in the end
housing.
io These prongs or ribs 1906 restrict the insertion depth of the filter sub
assembly.
Fig. 20 is a front side view 2000 of the end cap of the housing 1502 of the
second embodiment of the water filtration device. Surface 2007 of the housing
end
cap engages surface 1904 of the filter housing and is welded or glued thereto.
Fig.
20A is a right side view 2000A of the end cap of Fig. 20 illustrating the
closed end
is 2003. Fig. 20B is a perspective view 2000B of the end cap of Fig. 20
illustrating the
closed end and spacers 1543, 1542. Fig. 20C is a view 2000C of the left side
of the
end cap of Fig. 20 illustrating supports 2001, 2002 and 2010 which restrict
the
movement of the electronic package in place. Fig. 20D is another perspective
view
2000D of the end cap illustrating the housing 2011 in which the electronic
package
2V r -.s:d vs.
To assemble the water filtration devices, insert the aerator into the through
spout and then insert the through spout and ultrasonically weld the
aerator/spout
47
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
assembly to the front housing. Place the threaded collar into the seat on top
of the
front housing and press the lock collar through the threaded collar and seat
the lock
collar into the housing. Clamp and ultrasonically weld the lock collar to the
front
housing.
Insert the filtered spout into the filter housing and clamp and weld it to the
filter housing. Insert the front housing into position with respect to the
filter housing
and then clamp and ultrasonically weld it to the filter housing.
A prefilter may be wrapped around the filter and sealed using the hot seal
method. Next, the left and right end caps with adhesive applied to the contact
surfaces
io thereof are inserted in the filter. Uniform pressure is applied to the left
and right filter
end caps 114, 115, 1514, 1515 to spread the adhesive and allow it to set.
Approximate time for applying pressure is 2-5 seconds. The magnet is installed
into
the gate under the pressure of a person's finger or a tool such as pliers or
the
equivalent then hermetically sealed in place.
Next, the gate 118, 1518 is snapped into the hinges with the magnet facing
outwardly. Indicia on the left end cap of the filter subassembly is aligned
with a mark
or other indicia on the filter housing and the filter subassembly is inserted
into the
filter housing. Indicia on the housing end cap 102, 1502 is aligned with
indicia on the
filter housing and inserted therein. Once the housing end cap is in place it
is clamped
~o a;W ultrasonically welded to the filter houcina non-Temovably retaining the
filter
within the filter housing.
48
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
The lever is installed by snapping it into place in the valve cavity. To
install
the end of life electronic package, the light emitting diode is inserted into
and through
the aperture 137. Optionally, adhesive may be used when installing the diode
in the
aperture 137 to secure it into position and to ensure that the diode is
hermetically
sealed. The electronic package is installed into the reservoir in the open end
of the
housing end cap with the glass reed switch facing inwardly. End plate 116, 15
16 is
next snap-fit into place to hermetically seal the electronic package.
Optionally,
adhesive may be used around the perimeter of the end plate to ensure a
hermetic seal.
Or, the end plates may be welded to the housing end caps.
io The materials which are ultrasonically welded should be amenable to welding
such as ABS or other plastics.
Fig. lA is an exploded assembly view 100A of a third embodiment of the water
filtration device with a different left end cap 114A and a second magnet 114B
employed. Gate 118A is employed in the third embodiment and can be viewed in
i s cross-section in Figs. 3E, 3F, and 3G. These figures illustrate a conical
protrusion
118B extending rearwardly from gate 118A and partially surrounded by a
cylindrically extending protrusion 118C which also emanates from the rearward
side
of the gate 118A. Cvlindrically shaped protrusion 118C is larger in diameter
than the
cylindrically shaped protrusion or passageway 141A which extends from end cap
~v l l'tA. Lr Lg. JE sho.vs the relat.onsh:p of the d;a,reters of the
respective cylindrically
shaped extensions 118C, 141A.
49
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 3E is a cross-sectional view 300E of the third embodiment of the water
filtration device with a different left end cap 118A and a second magnet 114B
employed. Conical protrusion 118B extends from the rearward side of the gate
118A.
Fig. 3E illustrates the no flow condition and the gate is in the first
position. In this
condition magnet 117 which resides in the gate 118A is coupled to magnet 114B
which resides in the end cap 114A. It is the coupling effect of the magnets
which
ensures that the magnet 117 does not unintentionally and improperly actuate
the reed
switch and indicate a flow condition.
Magnets 117 and 114B are attractive magnets and are oriented such that they
io attract one another. Magnet 117 is secured within the gate 118A and magnet
I14B is
secured within left end cap 114A. A potting compound or adhesive may be used
to
secure the respective magnet within the gate 118A and the left end cap 114A.
Therefore, as the magnets are attractive the gate is also attracted toward the
left end
cap when it is in proximity to the left end cap. As flow through the filter
exits
cylindrical extension 141 A with sufficient velocity and force it overcomes
the
magnetic coupling or attraction of the magnets 117/114B and allows the gate to
move
in an arc to its second position. When flow is discontinued through the
filter, magnets
1 17/114B will couple when they are sufficientl_v proximate each to the other.
The
magnets help ensure that the gate will not unintentionally occupy an
intermediate
?v 1- .,evn t ~ii~o tt, faia~ * n an:,~ the second nThP
position u~''~w pCS; at;C r magnets ensure that
the gate resides in the first position when there is no flow through the
filter.
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
End cap 114A is sometimes referred to herein as a filter boundary cap. It is
this
rearward side 11 8A which experiences and reacts to the kinetic energy of the
water
flow emanating from cylindrical passageway 141A of the filter end cap 114A.
Conical
protrusion 118B resides partially within cylindrical passageway 141 A of end
cap
114A. Conical proirusion 118B is bounded U*enerally by a cylindrical'ly shaped
in
cross-section perimeter 118C which assists and focuses the energy of the
impinging
water when flow is present as illustrated in Fig. 3F.
Fig. 3F is a cross-sectional view 300F of the third embodiment of the water
filtration device with a different left end cap 114A and a second magnet 114B
i o employed and with the fountain lever depressed and with water flowing
through the
filter. Fig. 3F illustrates the gate in the second position and flow arrow 391
indicates
flow through the filter.
Fig. 3G is a cross-sectional view 300G of the third embodiment of the water
filtration device with a different left end cap 114A and a second magnet 114B
employed and with the fountain lever not depressed and with no water flowing
through the filter.
Fig. 9B is a front view 900B of another embodiment of the gate having conical
protrusion 907 and cylindrical protrusion 906 extending therefrom. Fig. 9C is
a cross-
sectional view 900C of the gate taken along the lines 9C-9C of Fig. 9B. Fig.
9D is a
~u rear vi: v. 900D of the e:r:bodiment of the gate illustrated in Fig. 9B.
Fig. l OB is a front view 1000B of another embodiment of the filter left end
cap
114A. Cylindrically extending passageway 141A extends from the filter end cap
~t
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
I 14A. Sometimes herein the filter end cap 114A is referred to as the filter
boundary.
Fig. 10 B illustrates the second magnet 114B residing in cavity or housing
114C. The
securement of magnet 114B within the filter end cap 1 14A may be effected as
described hereinabove with respect to the magnet which resides in the gate.
Fig. 10C
s is a cross-sectional view 1000C of the embodiment of the left end cap of the
filter of
Fig. lOB taken along the lines lOB-IOB.
Fig. 15A is an exploded perspective view 1500A of a fourth embodiment of the
invention. Fig. 15A illustrates the filter which is best suited for use in a
kitchen. Gate
1518A is illustrated as is the conically shaped protrusion 1518B and the
cylindrical
?o shroud or perimeter 1518C. Second magnet 1514B is also shown in perspective
in
Fig. 15A. Fig. 17B is a cross-sectional view 1700B of the fourth embodiment of
the
water filtration device.
The structure, function and operation of gate 1518A and its magnet 1517
illustrated in Fig. 17B are the same as that described above in connection
with the
15 gates and magnets illustrated in Figs. 3G and 3E. Fig. 17C is a cross-
sectional view
1700C of the fourth embodiment of the water filtration device with the gate
shown
rotated into the open, second position. The structure, function and operation
of gate
1518A and its magmet 1517 illustrated in Fig. 17C are the same as that
described in
connection with Fig. 3F above.
~u Fi;. 21. i; a;, exploded view 2100 of ?nother embodiment of the invention
illustrating the tube 2234 in a chamber which is formed by the filter housing
end cap
2128 and the filter end cap 2231. Tube 2234 is preferably made from a
thermoplastic
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
elastomer and is supported by the filter end cap 2231 as is described in
detail below.
Referring to Fig. 22, tube 2234 includes a passageway 2237 for the
communication of
filtered water to second filtered water outlet 2236. Tube 2234 engages and is
press fit
into first outlet 2236. Swinging flow gate 2241 resides in the chamber formed
by the
filter housing end cap and the filter end cap. Referring to Figs. 28A and 21,
spacers
2807 abut or reside in proximity to the filter end cap 2231. In this way the
distance
between the filter housing end cap 2128 and the filter end cap 2231 is
controlled thus
ensuring dimensional control for the swing of the gate 2241 and adequate room
for the
tube 2234.
?o Referring to Fig. 28A, a spacer 2807 is illustrated along with slight
shoulders
2805, 2806 indicating small steps downward. Referring to Fig. 28B, spacers
2807
extending from the filter housing end cap are responsible for controlling the
depth of
the chamber 2298 as viewed for instance in Figs. 22, 22A and 23. Reference
numerals
2809 and 2807 can be seen in these views behind other structural elements in
the
foreground. These spacers are responsible for the control of the depth of the
wet
chamber and to resist the tendency of the water pressure to push the filter
assembly
and filter end caps toward the filter housing end cap. First stop 2820 coacts
with the
protrusion 2920 extending outwardly from the face of the filter end cap 2231
and
integrally formed therewith to prevent rotation of the filter end caps and the
filter upon
Gu t u.ie .> 1:, r:,,.i~i. vf ~,orPr r.re5s,wre to the z/ater filtration
(jP_.vil'.P S1Illi~ rlv second stop
aYNii~ a~i r.,~v. t _'1 _-_13
2821 coacts with the second protrusion 2921 to prevent rotation of the filter
end caps
and the filter upon the application of water pressure to the water filtration
device.
53
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Fig. 21A is a generally front perspective view 2100A of the invention. An oval
shaped LED 2137 is illustrated prominently in Figs. 21A and 24A. Cover 2240 is
secured to filter housing end cap with adhesive in appropriate places while
still
allowing for the removal of tab 3103. Fig. 21B is a generally rear perspective
view
2100B of another embodiment of the invention. Handle or lever 2122 is
illustrated
with decorative insert 2123.
Referring to Fig. 22, filter housing 2101 includes a filter end cap spacer
2230A
on the closed end of the filter housing 2101. Still referring to Fig. 22, the
filter
housing end cap 2128 is ultrasonically welded 2290 to the filter housing body
2101.
? o Fig. 28 is an end view 2800 of the filter housing end cap 2128. Fig. 28A
is a
perspective view 2800A of the filter housing end cap 2128. Fig. 28B is a view
of the
filter housing end cap illustrating the first and second stops. Fig. 28C is a
view 2800C
of the filter housing end cap with the battery 2245, the electronic package
2245, the
LED 2137, and a removable nonconductive tab 3103 beneath a battery contact
3106 in
is a dry chamber 2801 therein.
Referring to Fig. 21, battery 2244 and electronics package 2245 are inserted
into the filter housing end cap as illustrated in Figs. 28, 28A, and 28C.
Referring to
Figs. 28, 28A and 28C, reference numeral 2801 generally illustrates the cavity
2801 in
which the battery 2244 and electronics package 2245 are housed. Reference
numerals
%0 2802 a;,d 2804 acco:nmodate the installation nf the LED 2137. Reference
numeral
2803 accommodates the nonconductive pull tab 3103 as it traverses the seal
2239 of
the cover 2240. Fig. 31 is a view 3100 of the battery 2244, the electronic
package
54
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
2245, the LED 2137, and a removable nonconductive tab 3103 beneath a batterv
contact. Fig. 31A is another view 3100A of the battery 2244, the electronic
package
2245, the LED 2137, and a removable nonconductive tab 3103 beneath a battery
contact 3106. Reference numerals 3110, 3111 are power leads between the
battery
2244 and the electronic package 2245. Reference numeral 3105 is a wire bundle
for
operation of the LED 2137.
Referring to Figs. 28A, 29, and 22, first and second stops 2820 and 2821,
respectively, of the filter housing end cap cooperate with first and second
protrusions
2920 and 2921, respectively, of the filter end cap 2231 to prohibit rotation
of the filter
io end cap 2231 and the filter 2113 which is secured thereto by adhesive 2293.
Referring
to Fig. 22, adhesive 2293 secures the filter 2113 to the filter end caps 2230
and 2231.
Fig. 29B illustrates ribs 2990 in which adhesive resides to secure water
filter 2113.
Fig. 30 is a top view 3000 of the lever 2122. Fig. 30A is a cross-sectional
view
3000A of the lever 2122 taken along the lines 30A-30A of Fig. 30. Fig. 30B is
a
1s bottom perspective view 3000B of the lever 2122. Bore 3004 receives
decorative
insert 2123. Bore 3000/3001A as shown in the views coacts and secure flange
2205
of first adjustably rotatable member and prevents extraction therefrom.
Reference
numeral 3005 illustrates a cavity in the underside of the lever 2122 for
reception of the
plunger 2206. Reference numeral 3020 indicates the curvature of the lever 2122
2u Wll1W
'=~''1 caacts with ~
*' c~,:rface 2631 of the first a[jj,,stably rotatable member 2181.
Reference numeral 3008 indicates a slot in the end of the lever for easy
installation on
hinge 2212 of the filter housing end cap 2128.
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
Referring to Fig. 21, the water filter 2113 is affixed to the end caps 2231
and
2230 as previously stated and this assembly is aligned within the filter
housing 2101
and is inserted therein. Referring to Figs. 21 and 22, spring 2211 resides on
shoulder
2180A within the second filtered water outlet 2210. Cover or shroud 2180
substantially covers spring 2211 to prevent oxidation (rusting) of the spring.
Plunger
2206 as illustrated in Figs. 21, 22 and 30C, is inserted into second filtered
water outlet
2210 and protrudes through the filter housing 2101 and into the wet chamber
2298.
Plunger 2206 includes a shoe portion 2207and a lever engaging portion 2204.
Aii
elastomeric boot or valve 2208 extends over the shoe portion 2207 and is
engagement
lo with the interior of the filter housing as illustrated in Figs. 22, 22A and
23. Reference
numeral 2270 is the valve seat portion on the interior of the filter housing
as illustrated
in Figs. 22, 22A, 23, 23B and 23C. Lever 2122 is substantially the same as
described
above except the connection about the hinge is different. Referring to Fig.
23B
reference numeral 2208B indicates the top of boot or ball valve 2208 and
reference
numeral 2208A indicates the bottom of valve 2208A. Lever 2122 includes hinge
pivot
receiving apertures 3002, 3003 as best viewed in Figs. 30, 30A, and 30B. Fig.
30C is
a view 3000C of the plunger 2206 indicating surface 2204 for engagement with
lever
2122 and surface 2207 for engagement with the elastomeric boot. Apertures 3002
and
3003 are separated by slot 3008 and coacts with pivot 2212 on filter housing
end cap
~~~o L a' 1)288A Q ~.7 2RR T ~yer - 11272 inCli~rjPC a ra1S~d surface 2184
:U L1GO Uest vi~w~ u in A i.. ~S. ~, u,...
which is concentric with bore 3001 and it is this surface upon which surface
2621 of
the first rotatable member 2181 rotates. Surface 2631 of the first rotational
member
56
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
2181 has a curvature which permits rotation with respect to surface 3020 of
lever
2122.
Referring to Figs. 21, 22, 22A, 30 and 30A, lever 2122 includes a bore
therethrough in which the first adjustably rotatable member 2181 protrudes and
is
interlocked therewith. The bor'e 3001 includes a shoulder 3001 A therein which
interlocks with flange 2205 of first adjustably rotatable member 2181 as
illustrated in
Fig. 22A.
Fig. 26 is an enlarged perspective view 2600 of the first and second
adjustably
rotatable members. Fig. 26A is a perspective view 2600A of the first 2181 and
second
to 2182 adjustably rotatable members. Cupped portion 2183 includes a curved
surface
2605 which coacts with curved surface 2605A of the second adjustably rotatable
member 2182. Fig. 26B is a cross-sectional view 2600B of the second adjustably
rotatable member 2182 taken along the lines 26B-26B of Fig. 26A. Passageway
2201
of the second adjustably rotatable member communicates with passageway 2202 of
the first adjustably rotatable member as illustrated, for example, in Figs. 22
and 22A.
Passageway 2202 communicates with a passageway 2288 in the plunger 2206 which
in turn communicates with chamber 2298. It is this way that fi.lter water
travels from
chamber 2298 to passageway 2201 and through passageway 2203 where it is
expelled.
Fig. 26C is a perspective view 2600C of the first adjustably rotatable member
LU al~
L 1O 1 u ~.j.t~~.u
t,p~' portion 2123 :hereef AS }'eSt viewPri in Figs. 26A and 26C, cupped
portion 2605 of the first adjustably rotatable member 2181 is curved so as to
permit
rotation of surface 2605A of the second adjustably rotatable member 2182 with
57
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
respect to the first adjustably rotatable member 2181. Referring to Figs. 26,
26A and
26B, passageway 2203 of the second adjustably rotatable member 2182
communicates
with the exterior thereof and with passageway 2201. Passageway 2203 expels
filtered
water from a countersunk surface 2604. Fig. 26D is a cross-sectional view
2600D of
s the first adjustably rotatable member taken along the lines 26D-26D of Fig.
26C.
Referring to Figs. 26A and 26D, shank 2602, flange 2204, and beveled edge 2603
of
the second adjustably rotatable member mate with respective bore 2606, socket
2607
and surface 2608. Assembly is enhanced by the flexibility of the thermoplastic
elastomers used for the members 2181 and 2182.
The first adjustably rotatable member 2181 and the second adjustably rotatable
member 2182 are preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer as this material
serves
well to seal the respective passageways identified herein. Thermoplastic
elastomers
provide the flexibility for the assembly of the members each to the other and
for
insertion into the plunger 2206.
Referring to Figs. 22A and 26D, the curvature 2631 or concavity 2631 of the
first adjustably rotatable member 2181 mates with the curvature 3020 of the
lever so
as to permit rotation around its axis which can be described as the "Y" axis
as
illustrated by reference numeral 2402 as viewed in Fig. 24. Fig. 24A is a top
view
2400A of the invention illustrating the rotation 2402 of the first adjustably
rotatable
~u me~~~ber.
When viewing Fig. 24A, the "Y" axis extends perpendicularly from the page
and reference numeral 2402 illustrates rotation of the first adjustably
rotatable
58
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
member 2181. Second adjustably rotatable member 2182 is carried with the
rotation
of the first adjustably rotatable member 2181.
Fig. 24 is an end view 2400 of another embodiment of the invention
illustrating
the rotation 2401 of the second adjustably rotatable member 2182. When viewing
Fig. 24, the "X" axis extends perpendicularly from the page and reference
numeral
2401 illustrates rotation of the second adjustably rotatable member 2182.
Fig. 23B is a cross-sectional view 2300B similar to Fig. 23 illustrating the
paths 2301, 2310, and 2310A of the filtered water with the lever 2122 and the
valve
2208 actuated. Water flow through the filter is controlled by valve 2108 as
described
:o in connection with valve 108 in regard to Fig. 1. The pivoting of the lever
is about the
axis of hinge or pivot 2212, herein called the "Z" axis, which when viewing
Fig. 23B
emanates from the page. Therefore, when lever 2122 is depressed filtered water
discharged from passageway 2203 is adjustable around the "Z" axis. Therefore,
the
fountain head 8181, 8182 is adjustably rotatable in three axes.
The embodiment illustrated in Figs. 21-31A includes a front housing portion
2103 affixed to the filter housing as previously described herein. The
materials of
construction for the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 21-31A are the same as
other
embodiments disclosed herein otherwise indicated. The aerator assembly 2111
and
spout 2106 are illustrated in Fig. 21 and are made and function as previously
'U uesc;rlUed lierein auove in regard to aeratC,r assC:::bl" 2111 anri gnrnit
2106. Valve and
y r ~.
valve handle 2108 and insert 2109 are also illustrated in Fig. 21. Still
referring to Fig.
21, collar lock 2105 is inserted within collar 2104 and is affixed as
previously
59
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
described herein above in regard to corresponding lock 105 and collar 104.
Screen
2110A is fitted within the water inlet. Reference numerals 2110A, 2105 and
2104
represent the attachment to a faucet as previously described above.
Referring to Figs. 21, 22, 23, 23B and 25B, gate 2241 includes a magnet 2235
and the filter end cap 223 lincludes magnet 2235A. Fig. 22 is a cross-
sectional view
2200 taken along the lines 22-22 of Figs. 21A and 21B illustrating the lever
not
depressed and with no flow present through the water filtration device. Fig.
23 is a
cross-sectional view 2300 similar to Fig. 22 illustrating the path of the
filtered water
with the lever 2122 and valve 2208 not actuated but with flow established
through the
to water filter.
Fig. 25 is a perspective view 2500 of the gate illustrated in Fig. 21 et seq.
Fig.
25A is a side view 2500A of the gate of Fig. 25 and Fig. 25B is a cross-
sectional view
2500B of the gate of Fig. 25. Studs or protrusions 2501,, 2502 of the gate
2241 coact
with hinges 2304, 2238 to enable gate 2241 to swing from first position to
second
position. Hinges 2304, 2238 are best viewed in Fig. 29. Referring to Fig. 25,
the flow
sensing gate or sometimes just referred to herein as the gate 2241 includes a
bottom
portion 2504 which is spaced apart from recess 2306 of the filter end cap
2231. In this
way magnets 2235 and 2235A are separated from each other so as to provide a
controlled coupling or attraction each to the other. Referring to Figs. 25,
25A, 25B,
~~ the 20 2-,, gate 2241 lI1C IIuGS a curved prvjiCtion '.~n~
~. .J.. ~back of a flat portion 2503:
Curved projection 2242 resides generally beneath projection 2232 which extends
from
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
the face of the filter end cap 2231. Curved portion 2242 of the gate assists
in opening
of the gate when water flows through the passageway in the filter end cap
2231.
Fig. 29 is a perspective view 2900 of filter end cap 2231 illustrating the
gate
hinges 2304, 2238 and the rotation prevention protrusions 2920, 2921. Hinge
2304
includes a bore 2901 and hinge 2238 includes a bore 2902 therethrough. A
frusto-
conical projection 2232 extends from the face of the filter end cap and is
slightly
offset from the center of the end cap. Fig. 29B is a filter-side view 2900B of
the filter
end cap 2231 illustrating annular slots or recesses 2920 for the reception of
adhesive
2293 for attaching the water filter 2213 thereto. Additionally, Fig. 29B
illustrates
:o passageway 2991 in filter end cap 2231 slightly offset from center.
Reference
numera12240 denotes a water filter hub which is inserted in the end of the
filter 2213.
Water freely flows from the outer annulus 2214 through the water filter 2213
where it
is purified and into passageway 2209 within the water filter 2213 and then
through
passageway 2991. Water filter 2213 has the same characteristics as the water
filter
media described hereinabove.
Referring to Fig. 29, reference numeral 2309 is a projection from the face of
the filter end cap 2231 which includes a first tube support 2331. Reference
numeral
2301 denotes another projection from the face of the filter end cap 2231 which
includes a second tube support 2330. Reference numera12238A is another
projection
r LllG r~_e uC+L-~ 4;'1ter e,-( -~,. 7~ : 1 .:,hiCh irl
LrOlll ClTides a thirc~ tllbe suDDort 2305.
?U ' ia.t,.i ui~ iii i.u .~.p, ~_..
Reference numeral 2243 is a fourth projection from the face of the filter end
cap and is
supported by projection 2238B emanating from the surface of the filter end cap
2231
61
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
and is substantially cylindrically shaped as it extends further from the face.
Projection
2243 is a fourth tube support.
Still referring to Fig. 29, a recess 2906 for receiving magnet 2235A is
illustrated as are circumferentially extending slots 2904, 2905 which receive
seals
~ 2275, 2275A to prevent unfiltered water from entering chamber 2298. Seals
2275,
2275A are illustrated in Fig. 22. Fig. 29A is a side view 2900A of one of the
filter end
cap 2331 of Fig. 29. Fig. 29A illustrates the side view of the filter end cap
2331 from
the perspective of any one of Figs. 22, 22A, 23, and 23A-D. An additional
structural
feature is denoted with the reference numeral 2238B and this feature is used
to support
,o the generally cylindrical post 2243.
Fig. 29C is a front side view 2900C of the filter end cap 2331 of Fig. 29
illustrating the supports described in connection with Fig. 29.
Fig. 22A is an enlargement 2200A of a portion of Fig. 22 illustrating the
valve
2208 and tube 2234. Figs. 22 and 22A depict the condition when no water is
directed
15 from the faucet into the filter housing as previously described herein
above.
Fig. 23A is an end view 2300A of the water filtration device absent the filter
housing end cap 2231 with the lever 2122 and the valve 2208 not actuated but
with
water flowing as controlled by valve 2108 as explained above in connection
with
other embodiments. Fig. 23 illustrates the flow of filtered water as denoted
by the
~ i re[c r____~c~~ce t l.,0 7 a url.r~itc. ~u nflt e.red ~xrater
iu rrar-iera~~l ~3~n1. ~Y ~~Jl~., lell v4 1.., ~ 1082 ,.i..
20 i)ow arrow at
into the annulus 2214 it passes through water filter 2213 where it is cleaned
and
contaminants and the like are removed. Filtered water in the center of
passageway
62
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
2209 flows through filter end cap and the semi-conical structure denoted by
reference
numeral 2232 where it impinges on surface 2503 of the gate 2241. Surface 2503
and
curved surface 2242 on the back side of the gate under the force of the water
cause
rotation of the gate as illustrated in Fig. 23 bringing magnet 2235 into
proximity with
sensor/reed switch 2277 as previously described herein. Operation of the
sensor/reed
switch 2277 is the same as previously described herein. Water flow 2301
proceeds
into wet chamber 2298 around gate 2241 and into passageway 2237 of the tube
2234
and then down through the tube as indicated by reference numeral where it is
expelled
from first filtered water outlet 2236.
Fig. 23C is an enlargement 2300C of a portion of Fig. 23B with the iever 2122
depressed and with flow through the water filter 2213 as controlled by the
action of
valve 2108 and valve 2208. Referring to Figs. 22, 22A, 23, 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D,
gap
2250 is illustrated between boot or ball valve 2208 and the top of tube 2234.
In each
of the immediately preceding and aforementioned drawing figures the tube 2234
is
ts illustrated partially in cross-section at the top thereof because the tube
is not linear or
straight in a vertical direction. Figs. 23A and 23D illustrate the arrangement
of the
gate 2241 and the tube when looking into the filter housing 2101. Although the
tube
illustrated and preferred is rectangularly shaped in cross-section, it is
specifically
contemplated that other shapes may and can be used that do not have a
rectangular
GG cross-section. :C~.,. ~il., ,..CõtCm..laVeri that accaaPwav 2237 m~,v
it is aiSv SpeC1.fay t o -== 't? _
.1 w
undertake shapes other than circular in cross-section. The substantially
rectangularly
shaped tube in cross-section is supported as illustrated in Figs. 29, 29A, and
29C by
63
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
supports 2309/2331, 2301/2330, 2238A/2305 and 2243. It is specifically
contemplated
that other support shapes and placements may be used in conjunction with tubes
having a substantially different shape.
Fig. 27 is a perspective view 2700 of the tube illustrating its non-linearity
in
three dimensions. When reference is made to any one of Figs. 22, 22A, 23, 23A,
23B,
23C, or 23D, the tube 2234 is viewed as curving rightwardly toward the filter
housing
end cap 2128. Fig. 27A is a view 2700A of the tube 2234 as viewed in Fig. 22
and the
other drawing figures just mentioned. Fig. 27B is a view 2700B of the tube
2234 as
viewed in Fig. 23A. Fig. 27C is a view 2700C of the tube 2234 of the tube from
the
io other side of Fig. 27A. Fig. 27D is a view 2700D of the tube 2234 'Ll om
the other side
of Fig. 27B. Fig. 27 E is a top view 2700E of the tube and Fig. 27F is the
bottom view
2700F of the tube.
Figs. 23A and 23D illustrate that the flange 2303 of tube 2234 is press-fit in
the
filter housing 2101. Tube 2234 is preferably manufactured from a thermoplastic
elastomer and is capable of deformation to the extent of being press-fit into
the
housing.
Fig. 23D is an end view 2300D of the water filtration device absent the filter
housing end cap 2231 with the lever 2122 and the valve 2208 actuated and water
flowing from both the fountain head 2181, 2182 (second filtered water outlet)
and the
?0 first filtered water outlet 2236.
Fig. 23B is a cross-sectional view 2300B similar to Fig. 23 illustrating the
paths 2301, 2310, and 2310A of the filtered water with the lever 2122 and the
valve
64
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
2208 actuated. Fig. 23C is an enlargement of a portion of Fig. 23B. Figs. 23B
and
23C illustrate a flow divider as follows. Filtered water is flows along the
path
indicated by flow arrow 2301 around gate 2241 as water is expelled from semi-
conical
portion 2232 where curved surface 2242 ensures the opening of the gate 2241.
Simultaneously, lever 2122 under the influence of a person's hand depresses
plunger
2206 urging valve 2208 off valve seat 2270 of filter housing 2270 permitting
filtered
water to be directed upwardly along a path as indicated by arrow 2310A in
Figs. 23B
and 23C. When lever 2122 has been depressed to its maximum extent shroud or
cover
2180 rests on the outside of filter housing 2101 which limits the travel of
the plunger
lo 2206 and the valve 2208 leaving a gap 2250 of approximately 0.050 inches
between
the top 2234A of the tube 2234 and the bottom 2208A of the valve 2208. The
action
of the valve 2208 acts as flow divider whereby some of the filtered water flow
is
expelled upwardly through the second filtered water outlet as indicated in the
direction
of flow arrow 2310A and some of the filtered water flow is expelled downwardly
through the first filtered water outlet through tube 2234.
Variances in water pressure will determine the amount of depression of the
lever 2122 and the valve 2208. In other words when the source water pressure
is high
the lever and valve do not have to be depressed to their maximum extent. Where
the
source water pressure is low the lever 2122 and valve 2208 may be depressed
more or
iO iije to ,. 1 .ØsSen th..e ~.
o flow a LOJV~ n the tube and nrnvidP
iiariiiTiwTi Sv as more flow to the
fountain 2181/2182. Fig. 23C indicates the maximum depression of the lever
2122
and the valve 2208 wherein the top 2208B of valve 2208 is spaced apart from
the
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
valve seat 2270 a relatively large amount compared to the spacing between the
bottom
2208A of the valve 2208 and the top 2234A of the tube 2234.
A method of making a water filtration device includes the steps of: attaching
end caps to a filter; inserting the filter within a filter housing; aligning
the filter within
the filter housing; inserting a hinge portion of a gate into corresponding
receptacles on'
one end of one of the end caps previously affixed to the filter; inserting a
portion of a
tube into an aperture within the filter housing forming a first outlet;
aligning the tube
with respect to the one end of one of the end caps previously affixed to the
filter;
affixing the filter housing end cap to the filter housing forming a chamber
between a
to closed end of the filter housing end cap and the filter end cap; and,
affixing a front
housing to the filter housing. Additionally, the step of affixing the filter
housing end
cap to the filter housing includes the step of interengaging stops on the end
cap of the
filter housing with protrusions on the filter end cap preventing rotation of
the filter end
cap and the filter. Additionally the method may include the steps of:
inserting a
plunger having a shoe in a second housing outlet; placing a boot valve over
the shoe;
inserting a spring between the filter housing and the plunger; and, attaching
a
pivotable lever to the filter housing. Still additionally the method may
include the
steps of: inserting a first adjustably rotatable member in the pivotable lever
and the
plunger; and, inserting a second adjustably rotatable member in the first
adjustably
'Lo rotatable uieiubcr.
The invention has been described herein by way of example only. Those
skilled in the art will readily recognize that changes and modifications may
be made to
66
CA 02555752 2006-08-09
the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended
claims
which follow hereinbelow.
67
