Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
WATER FILTRATION APPARATUS WITH IMPROVED
FILTER CARTRIDGE HOUSING AND DISTRIBUTOR
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention generally relates to water filtration systems
installed at a
point-of-use or a point-of entry of plumbing networks in buildings. More
particularly, the
present invention relates to improvements to a filter cartridge housing
assembly and
distributor that include a mechanism for actuating a shut-off valve and a
pressure-relief
valve upon removing the housing assembly from the distributor, a locking mount
between
the housing assembly and the distributor, a housing lid to prevent spilling of
water when
the housing assembly is removed from the distributor, and fasteners clips that
allow for
modular attachment of the distributor to plumbing fittings and a mounting
bracket.
Background of the Invention
[0002] Figure 1 shows a side view of a conventional multi-stage water
filtration system,
as may be installed as a point-of-use system beneath a sink to filter water
for a single faucet.
The system has a mounting bracket that attaches multiple filter assemblies
linked in series
to a structure such as the inside wall of an under-sink cabinet. Each filter
assembly has a
distributor that is connected to inflow and outflow lines, and a filter
housing that holds a
filter cartridge. The distributor directs unfiltered water from the inflow
line to the filter
housing where the filter cartridge traps contaminants, and directs filtered
water from the
filter housing to the outflow line. The filter housing has a canister form
with an open top
end and a closed bottom end. The bottom of the distributor and the top end of
the filter
housing have complementary threads so that the filter housing can be screwed
onto the
distributor, which acts as a cap for the open top end of the filter housing.
[0003] When the filter cartridge in a conventional water filtration system
requires
replacement, the lines connected to the distributor are isolated with valves.
Next, any
excess pressure in the filter housing is relieved by opening the faucet to
which the system
is connected. Alternatively, it is known to provide filter cartridges having
integrated
pressure release mechanisms. However, such filter cartridges are made of
plastic, which
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creates additional non-biodegradable waste, and may not be readily recyclable.
The filter
housing is then unscrewed from the distributor. However, since a water-tight
seal between
the filter housing and the distributor is imperative, the filter housing
should be screwed on
tightly to the distributor. Therefore, unscrewing the filter housing from the
distributor may
require a substantial torque, which may be greater than that which can be
applied by a
typical user's unassisted hands. As such, a splined key wrench may be provided
to engage
grooves on the outer surface of the housing to screw on and screw off the
housing from the
distributor, but this makes the system more complicated. Moreover, upon
unscrewing the
housing from the distributor, the filter housing may be full of water, which
may spill out
of the open top end of the filter housing before the water can be poured into
a bucket or
down a drain.
[0004] Proper installation and assembly of a conventional multi-stage water
filtration
system, requires plumbing skills that may be beyond those possessed by the
typical home
owner. This is because the system requires installation of standard tubing
with threaded
and taped fittings, or push-fit fittings to create a water-tight flow path
between the filter
assemblies. Further, if a particular stage of the system needs to be isolated
for trouble-
shooting, then the associated fittings must be dismantled and re-installed,
which creates a
major disincentive to doing so.
[0005] A conventional multi-stage water filtration system cannot be readily re-
configured
for a different number of filter assemblies. This is because the bracket is
specifically
designed to hold a predetermined number of filter assemblies. This creates
complexity for
manufacturers and vendors who wish to supply single-stage systems, double-
stage systems,
and triple-stage systems, because such systems must be supplied as different
sets of parts.
This also prevents a user from upgrading an existing system with additional
stages of filter
assemblies. Rather, the user must replace the existing system in its entirety
with a new
system having the desired number of stages.
[0006] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a water filtration system
that allows for
cleaner and more convenient replacement of the filter cartridge, and greater
ease of
manufacturing, installation, upgrading, and maintenance.
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Summary of the Invention
[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention comprises an apparatus for
filtering water.
The apparatus comprises a housing assembly, a distributor, and a shut-off
valve. The
housing assembly comprises a housing canister that defines a housing interior
for holding
a filtration medium. The distributor defines at least part of an inflow
passage for directing
water flow from a distributor inlet to the housing interior, and at least part
of an outflow
passage for directing water flow from the housing interior to a distributor
outlet. The shut-
off valve is for regulating water flow between the housing interior and the
distributor inlet,
and the distributor outlet. The housing assembly is removably attachable to
the distributor
by rotation relative to the distributor in a first direction, whereupon the
housing assembly
actuates movement of the shut-off valve to an open position permitting water
flow through
the inflow passage and through the outflow passage. The housing assembly is
detachable
from the distributor by rotation relative to the distributor in a second
direction opposite to
the first direction, whereupon the housing assembly actuates movement of the
shut-off
.. valve to a closed position preventing water flow through the inflow passage
and through
the outflow passage.
[0008] In an embodiment of the apparatus, the housing assembly comprises a
housing lid
removably attachable, in sealing relationship, to the housing canister,
wherein the housing
lid defines a housing lid aperture permitting water flow between the housing
interior and
the distributor. The housing lid may engage the shut off valve to actuate
movement of the
shut-off valve between the open position and the closed position. The housing
lid may
comprise a pressure relief valve for relieving pressure from the housing
interior. Rotation
of the housing assembly relative to distributor in the first direction
actuates movement of
the pressure-relief valve to a closed position preventing gas flow out of the
housing interior.
.. Rotation of the housing assembly relative to distributor in the second
direction actuates
movement of the pressure-relief valve to an open position permitting gas flow
out of the
housing interior.
[0009] In a second aspect, the present invention comprises an apparatus for
filtering water.
The apparatus comprises a housing canister, a housing lid, and a distributor,
and a housing
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lid. The housing canister defines a housing interior for holding a filtration
medium. The
housing lid is removably attached, in sealing relationship, to the housing
canister. The
housing lid defines a housing lid aperture permitting water flow into and out
of the housing
interior. The distributor is removably attachable to the housing assembly, and
defines at
least part of an inflow passage for directing water flow from a distributor
inlet to the
housing interior via the housing lid aperture, and at least part of an outflow
passage for
directing water flow from the housing interior to a distributor outlet via the
housing lid
aperture.
[0010] In an embodiment of the apparatus, the housing assembly is removably
attachable
to the distributor by a bayonet-type mount comprising an L-shaped slot formed
by one of
the housing lid and the distributor, and a radially extending tab formed by
the other one of
the housing lid and the distributor. The L-shaped slot may define a stepped-
shaped detent
that causes the housing lid to move axially into engagement with the
distributor upon
movement of the radially extending tab past the stepped-shaped detent.
[0011] In a third aspect, the present invention comprises a distributor
assembly for use in
a water filtering apparatus comprising a housing for holding a filtration
medium. The
assembly comprises a distributor for directing water flow into and out of the
housing, and
a plurality of identical factors. The distributor defines a distributor inlet
for removably
receiving an inlet fitting in sealing relationship to the distributor. The
distributor also
defines a distributor outlet for removably receiving an outlet fitting in
sealing relationship
to the distributor. Each fastener comprises a pair of clip members resiliently
separable from
each other. A first fastener has clip members which are removably insertable
through a first
pair of passages defined by the distributor to engage the inlet fitting
received in the
distributor inlet, and thereby removably secure the inlet fitting within the
distributor inlet.
A second fastener has clip members which are removably insertable through a
second pair
of passages defined by the distributor to engage the outlet fitting received
in the distributor
outlet, and thereby removably secure the outlet fitting within the distributor
outlet.
[0012] In an embodiment of the assembly, the assembly may further comprise a
bracket
for mounting the water filtering apparatus to the structure. A third fastener
has clip
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members which are removably insertable through a third pair of passages
defined by the
distributor to engage the bracket, and thereby removably secure the bracket to
the
distributor.
[0013] In an embodiment of the assembly, each of the fasteners may further
comprise a
tab removably insertable into one of a plurality of slots defined by the
distributor to secure
the fastener to the distributor.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0014] In the drawings shown in the specification, like elements may be
assigned like
reference numerals. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, with the
emphasis instead
placed upon the principles of the present invention. Additionally, each of the
embodiments
depicted are but one of a number of possible arrangements utilizing the
fundamental
concepts of the present invention.
[0015] Figure 1 shows a side view of a water filtration system in the prior
art.
[0016] Figure 2 shows an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of an
apparatus of
the present invention.
[0017] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 2.
[0018] Figure 4 shows a front cross-sectional midline view of an upper portion
of the
apparatus of Figure 2, without the inlet fitting and the outlet fitting shown
in Figure 2.
[0019] Figure 5 shows a top perspective view of an upper portion of the
housing canister
of the apparatus of Figure 2.
[0020] Figure 6 shows a top perspective view of the housing lid of the
apparatus of Figure
2.
[0021] Figure 7 shows a bottom perspective view of the distributor of the
apparatus of
Figure 2.
[0022] Figure 8 shows a bottom perspective view of the shut-off valve of the
apparatus of
Figure 2.
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[0023] Figure 9 shows an exploded perspective view of the housing lid and
pressure relief
valve of the apparatus of Figure 2.
[0024] Figure 10 shows an exploded perspective view of the assembly of the
distributor,
fittings, bracket, and fasteners of the apparatus of Figure 2.
[0025] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of two of the apparatuses of Figure
2 connected
together in a multi-stage water filtration system, with each of the
apparatuses having an
attached bracket.
[0026] Figure 12 shows a top view of two of the apparatuses of Figure 2
connected together
in a multi-stage water filtration system, with the apparatuses having a single
attached
bracket.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiment
[0027] Definitions. Any term or expression not expressly defined herein shall
have its
commonly accepted definition understood by a person skilled in the art.
[0028] Overview. Figure 2 shows an embodiment of an apparatus (10) of the
present
invention for filtering water. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the embodiment of
the apparatus
(10) includes a housing assembly comprising a housing canister (20) and a
housing lid (22).
The embodiment of the apparatus (10) also includes a a filter cartridge (40),
a lower filter
cartridge cap (42), an upper filter cartridge cap (44), a distributor (60), an
inlet fitting (80),
an outlet fitting (100), a bracket (120), and three fasteners (140a, 140b,
140c). Referring to
Figures 4 and 8, the embodiment of the apparatus (10) also includes a shut-off
valve (160).
Referring to Figure 9, the embodiment of the apparatus (10) also includes a
pressure-relief
valve (180). These and other parts of the apparatus (10), and its use and
operation are
described in greater detail below.
[0029] Housing canister. The housing canister (20) defines a housing interior
(24) for
holding a filtration medium, which may be in the form of a tubular filter
cartridge (40).
The housing canister (20) extends vertically from a bottom end that is closed,
to a top end
that defines an opening sized to allow the filtration medium to be inserted
into and removed
from the housing interior (24).
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[0030] Tubular filter cartridges (40) are known to persons of ordinary skill
in the art of
water filtration systems. The present invention is not limited by any
particular type of
filtration medium of the filter cartridge (40). Filter cartridges (40) are
available in a variety
of sizes, and may contain a variety of different types of filtration media. As
a non-limiting
example, the filter cartridge (40) may be a "pre-filter" made of
polypropylene, for removing
particulate contaminants such as sediment and rust particles from water. As
another non-
limiting example, the filter cartridge (40) may contain granular activated
carbon for
removing chlorine, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds from water.
[0031] As shown in Figure 4, when the filter cartridge (40) is disposed in the
housing
interior (24), the filter cartridge (40) divides the housing interior (24)
into a feed zone (26)
and a filtrate zone (28). The feed zone (26) refers to that portion of the
housing interior
(24) through which water flows before passing through the filter cartridge
(40).
Conversely, the filtrate zone (28) refers to that portion of the housing
interior (24) through
which water flows after passing through the filter cartridge (40). In the
embodiment shown
in Figure 4, the feed zone (26) and filtrate zone (28) are located on the
radially outward
and radially inward sides, respectively, of the filter cartridge (40), so that
water flows
radially inwards through the filter cartridge (40) towards the center of the
housing canister
(20). In other embodiments the position of the feed zone (26) and filtrate
zone (28) may be
reversed so that water flows radially outwards through the filter cartridge
(40) away from
the center of the housing canister (20).
[0032] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 4, an upper filter cartridge
cap (44) is
provided. In the embodiment shown, the upper filter cartridge cap (44) is made
of plastic.
In the embodiment shown, the upper filter cartridge cap (44) defines a central
opening (45)
that extends through a central housing lid aperture (30) (as also seen in
Figure 6) from a
bottom end of the cap (44) that is disposed in the opening defined by the
filter cartridge
(40) to a top end of the cap (44) that is disposed in an opening of the shut-
off valve (160)
(as also seen in Figure 8). An 0-ring gasket is provided at the upper end of
the cap (44) to
create a water-tight seal between the cap (44) and the shut-off valve (160).
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[0033] In the embodiments shown in the Figures, the housing canister (20) is
molded from
propylene copolymer or copolyester resin. The housing canister (20) may be
opaque, or
may be transparent so that the filter cartridge (40) is visible when inside
the housing interior
(24). In other embodiments, the housing canister (20) may be made of different
materials.
[0034] In the embodiments shown in the Figures, the housing canister (20) has
a circular
horizontal cross-sectional shape so that the housing canister (20) as a whole
has a
substantially cylindrical shape. In other embodiments, the housing canister
(20) may have
different cross-sectional shapes.
[0035] Housing lid. The housing lid (22) is removably attached in sealing
relationship to
the top end of the housing canister (20). In the embodiment shown in Figure 6,
the housing
lid (22) defines a central housing lid aperture (30) permitting water flow
between the
housing interior (24) and the distributor (60). Notwithstanding the housing
lid aperture
(30), the housing lid (22) helps to prevent accidental spillage of water out
of the housing
interior (24), when the housing canister (20) is detached from the distributor
(60).
Preferably, the housing lid aperture (30) is substantially smaller than the
housing lid (22).
[0036] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the housing lid (22) is molded
from
propylene copolymer. In other embodiments, the housing lid (22) may be made of
different
materials.
[0037] In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the top end of the housing
canister (20) and
the bottom surface of the housing lid (22) define a threaded connection (32)
that allows the
housing lid (22) to be screwed onto the housing top end. Multiple 0-ring
gaskets made of
ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber are provided to better ensure a
water-
tight seal between the housing lid (22) and the housing canister (20) top end.
In other
embodiments, the housing lid (22) may be removably attached in sealing
relationship to
the top end of the housing canister (20) using other types of connections and
sealing
elements as necessary.
[0038] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the housing canister (20) defines
a notch
(34). In the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the bottom edge of the housing lid
(22) defines
a downwardly extending tab (36) that is received in the notch (34). It will be
understood
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that the downwardly extending tab (36) is sufficiently flexible to travel into
and out of the
notch (34) when the housing lid (22) is screwed onto and unscrewed from the
housing
canister (20). The engagement of the tab (36) in the notch (34) limits
tightening of the
housing lid (22) on to the housing canister (20). It also ensures that an
arrow marking (38)
on the outer surface of the housing lid (22) may be aligned with one of a
series markings
(39a, 39b, 39c) on the outer surface of the distributor (60) as shown in the
embodiment
shown in Figure 7, so as to properly indicate the state of attachment of the
housing
assembly to the distributor (60), and the position of the shut-off valve (160)
and pressure-
relief valve (180), as discussed below.
[0039] Distributor. The distributor (60) defines at least part of an inflow
passage for
directing water flow from a distributor inlet (62) to the feed zone (26) of
the housing
interior (24), and at least part of an outflow passage for directing water
flow from the
filtrate zone (28) of the housing interior (24) to a distributor outlet (64).
In the embodiment
shown in Figure 4, water flow through the inflow passage and the outflow
passage is shown
by dashed lines.
[0040] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the distributor (60) is molded
from
propylene copolymer. In other embodiments, the distributor (60) may be made of
different
materials.
[0041] In contrast to a conventional system, the embodiments of the housing
assembly and
the distributor (60) shown in the Figures do not rely on a water-tight
threaded connection
between the housing canister (20) and the distributor (60). This is possible
because, as
shown in Figure 4, the arrangement of the housing lid (22), in conjunction
with the housing
canister (20), filter cartridge upper cap (44) and shut-off valve (160), and
sealing elements
between them collectively provide for a water-tight connection between the
housing
.. interior (24) and the distributor (60). In one embodiment, this water-tight
seal may be rated
to remain water-tight up to pressures of 150 psi.
[0042] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the housing assembly is
removably
attached to the distributor (60) by a bayonet-type mount. Referring to the
embodiment
shown in Figure 6, the outer surface of the housing lid (22) defines a pair of
L-shaped slots
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(46a, 46b) spaced about 180 degrees apart from each other. Referring to the
embodiment
shown in Figure 7, the bottom surface of the distributor (60) defines a pair
of radially
inwardly extending tabs (48a, 48b) spaced about 180 degrees apart from each
other. In
other embodiments, the housing lid (22) may define the tabs, while the
distributor (60)
defines the L-shaped slots. To secure the housing assembly to the distributor
(60), the user
positions the housing assembly so that the tabs (48a, 48b) are aligned with
the vertical leg
of the L-shaped slots (46a, 46b). In this position, the arrow marking (38) on
the housing
lid (22) is aligned with the open padlock icon marking (39c) on the
distributor (60). As the
user rotates the housing assembly relative to the distributor (60), the tabs
(48a, 48b) must
pass through a stepped-shaped detent in the vertical leg of the L-shaped slots
(46a, 46b).
Upon doing so, the housing assembly moves upward into closer engagement with
the
distributor (60). The stepped-shaped detent may also provide the user with
positive tactile
feedback, or auditory feedback (e.g., a "click" sound), to indicate that the
housing assembly
is secured to the distributor (60). In this position, the arrow marking (38)
on the housing
lid (22) is aligned with the closed padlock icon marking (39b) labelled "OFF"
on the
distributor (60). Further rotation of the housing assembly relative to the
distributor (60)
will result in alignment of the arrow marking (38) on the housing lid (22)
with the closed
padlock icon marking (39a) labelled "FLOW ON" on the distributor (60).
[0043] Shut-off valve. The apparatus (10) may also comprise a shut-off valve
(160) for
regulating water flow between the housing interior (24) and the distributor
inlet (62), and
the distributor outlet (64). In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8, the
shut-off valve
(160) comprises a substantially cylindrical tubular member having two shut-off
valve
apertures (162a, 162b) formed through its walls. Sealing elements in the form
of 0-ring
gaskets are provided around the shut-off valve (160) to create a water-tight
seal with inner
walls of the distributor (60). In this embodiment, the shut-off valve
apertures (162a, 162b)
are spaced about 180 degrees apart from each other, so that they can be
aligned with the
distributor inlet (62) and distributor outlet (64). Referring to Figure 4,
when the aperture
(162a) is aligned with the distributor inlet (62), the aperture (162a) forms
part of the inflow
passage from the distributor inlet (62), through the annular space defined
between the
portion of the housing lid (22) defining the central housing lid aperture (30)
and the upper
CA 2999315 2018-03-26
end of the upper filter cartridge cap (44), to the feed zone (26) of the
housing interior (24).
Referring to Figure 4, when the aperture (162b) is aligned with the
distributor outlet (64),
the aperture (162b) forms part of the outflow passage from the filtrate zone
(28) of the
housing interior (24), through the opening (45) of the upper filter cartridge
cap (44), to the
distributor outlet (64). As seen in Figure 4, an internal structure of the
shut-off valve (160)
and the sealing relationship of the shut-off valve (160) to the upper end of
the upper filter
cartridge cap (44) isolates the inflow passage from the outflow passage.
[0044] Referring to Figure 4, the top end of the shut-off valve (160) is
attached to the
bottom surface of the distributor (60) by a screw and nut assembly (164),
while remaining
free to rotate relative to the distributor (60). Referring to Figure 8, the
bottom end of the
distributor (60) defines a pair of notches (166a, 166b) spaced about 180
degrees apart from
each other. Referring to the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the upper surface
of the
housing lid (22) forms a pair of protrusions (168a, 168b) that engage the
notches (166a,
166b). Accordingly, when the user rotates the housing assembly relative to the
distributor
(60), the shut-off valve (160) rotates in unison with the housing assembly.
When the
housing assembly is positioned so that the arrow marking (38) on the housing
lid (22) is
aligned with the closed padlock icon marking (39b) labelled "OFF" on the
distributor (60),
the shut-off valve (160) is in a closed position in which the shut-off valve
apertures (162a,
162b) are misaligned with the distributor inlet (62) and the distributor
outlet (64), so that
the shut-off valve (160) prevents water flow from the distributor inlet (62)
to the housing
interior (24), and from the housing interior (24) to the distributor outlet
(64). When the user
further rotates the housing assembly so that the arrow marking (38) on the
housing lid (22)
is aligned with the closed padlock icon marking (39a) labelled "FLOW ON" on
the
distributor (60), the shut-off valve (160) is in an open position in which the
shut-off valve
apertures (162a, 162b) are aligned with the distributor inlet (62) and the
distributor outlet
(64) to permit water flow from the distributor inlet (62) to the housing
interior (24), and
from the housing interior (24) to the distributor outlet (64). In this
position, the housing
assembly is also fully secured to the distributor (60).
[0045] Pressure-relief valve. In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the housing
lid (22)
comprises a pressure-relief valve (180) for relieving gas pressure from the
housing interior
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(24) when the housing lid (22) is attached to the housing canister (20). On
account of the
sealing relationship between the housing lid (22) and the housing canister
(20), air
entrained in water flowing through the housing interior (24) may become
trapped within
the upper end of the housing interior (24). The trapped air may result in
excessive
backpressure that impedes water flow through the housing interior (24). The
pressure-relief
valve (180) may be opened to allow the trapped air to escape from the housing
interior
(24). In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the pressure-relief valve (180)
includes a
button (182) on the upper surface of the housing lid (22), a screw (184)
passing through a
washer (186) and an opening (188) formed in the housing lid (22) and attached
to the
bottom end of the button, and a spring (190) disposed between the upper
surface of the
housing lid (22) and the bottom surface of the button (182) to bias the button
(182) to a
position that occludes the opening (188) in the housing lid (22).
[0046] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the bottom surface of the
distributor (60)
is contoured to engage the button (182) as the housing assembly is rotated
relative to the
distributor (60). More specifically, when the housing assembly is rotated such
that the
arrow marking (38) on the housing lid (22) is aligned with the closed padlock
icon marking
(39a) labelled "OFF" on the distributor (60), the bottom surface of the
distributor (60)
pushes downward against the biasing force of the spring (190), so that the
button (182)
exposes the opening (188) in the housing lid (22) to allow gas flow out of the
housing
interior (24). Conversely, when the housing assembly is rotated such that the
arrow
marking (38) on the housing lid (22) is aligned with the closed padlock icon
marking (39a)
labelled "FLOW ON" on the distributor (60), the bottom surface of the
distributor (60)
allows the button (182) to return to its upwardly biased position in which it
occludes the
opening (188) in the housing lid (22), thus preventing gas flow out of the
housing interior
(24).
[0047] Inlet and outlet fittings, bracket, and fasteners. In the embodiment
shown in
Figure 10, the apparatus (10) includes an inlet fitting (80) and an outlet
fitting (100). The
inlet fitting (80) and the outlet fitting (100) are used to connect the
apparatus (10) to an
inflow line and an outflow line, respectively, which in use may be lines of a
plumbing
network, or the distributor inlet (62) or the distributor outlet (64) of
another apparatus (10)
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when the apparatus (10) is used in a multi-stage water filtration system. In
the embodiment
shown in Figure 10, the inlet fitting (80) is adapted for connection to the
distributor outlet
(64) of the distributor (60) of another apparatus (10) of the present
invention, while the
outlet fitting (100) is adapted for a quick connection to a cross-linked
polyethylene (PEX)
outflow line. It will be understood that the present invention is not limited
by any particular
configuration of the inlet fitting (80) and the outlet fitting (100), which
may be provided in
a variety of sizes, configurations (e.g., straight and elbow configurations),
and with a
variety of sealing elements to suit different inflow and outflow lines.
[00481 In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the apparatus (10) also includes
three
identical fasteners (140a, 140b, 140c). Each of the fasteners has a pair of
opposed clip
members (142). Each of the fasteners (140a, 140b, 140c) also has a tab (144)
with a pair
of tab members. In one embodiment, the fasteners (140a, 140b, 140c) may be
made from
propylene copolymer or other materials, allowing the clip members to be
resiliently
separated from each other, and allowing the tab members to be resiliently
compressed
towards each other.
[0049] In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, a first fastener (140a) is used
to removably
secure the inlet fitting (80) in the distributor inlet (62). After the inlet
fitting (80) is inserted
into the distributor inlet (62), the fastener (140a) is pushed so that the
clip members (142a)
are forced through passages (146a) defined by the distributor (60), and the
tab (144a) is
pushed into a slot (148a) defined by the distributor (60), whereupon the tab
members are
compressed by the slot (148a) to better secure the fastener (140a) to the
distributor (60).
The passages (146a) defined by the distributor (60) allow the clip members of
the fastener
(140a) to contact and clamp against the inlet fitting (80), and thereby
removably secure the
inlet fitting (80) within the distributor inlet (62). In order to remove the
inlet fitting (80)
from the distributor inlet (62), the fastener (140a) is simply pulled so that
the clip members
(142a) are withdrawn from the passages (146a) and the tab (144a) is withdrawn
from the
slot (148a). A second fastener (140b) is used in an analogous manner to
removably secure
the outlet fitting (100) in the distributor outlet (64).
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[0050] In the embodiment shown in Figure 10, the apparatus (10) also includes
a bracket
(120) for mounting the apparatus (10) to a structure (e.g., an inner wall of a
cabinet under
a sink). An upper portion defines a pair of bracket apertures (122).
[0051] In the embodiment of Figure 10, a third fastener (140c) is used to
removably secure
the bracket (120) to distributor (60). When the bracket (120) is inserted in a
groove (150)
defined by the upper surface of the distributor (60), the bracket apertures
(122) are aligned
with the passages (146c) defined by the distributor (60). The edges of the
groove (150)
define channels (152) that receive the edges (124) of the bracket (120) to
retain the bracket
(120) to the distributor (60). The fastener (140c) may then be pushed so that
the clip
members (142c) are forced through passages (146c) defined by the distributor
(60) and the
bracket apertures (122), and the tab (144c) is pushed into a slot (148c)
defined by the
distributor (60), whereupon the tab members are compressed by the slot (148c)
to better
secure the fastener to the distributor (60). The passages (146c) defined by
the distributor
(60) allow the clip members (142c) of the fastener (140c) to contact and clamp
against the
inner walls of the bracket (120) that define the bracket apertures (122), and
thereby
removably secure the bracket (120) to the distributor (60). In order to remove
the bracket
(120) from the distributor (60), the fastener (140c) is simply pulled so that
the clip members
(142c) are withdrawn from the passages (146c) and bracket apertures (122), and
the tab
(144c) is withdrawn from the slot (148c).
[0052] Use and operation. In an exemplary use of the embodiment of the
apparatus (10)
shown in Figure 11, two apparatuses (10a, 10b) may be connected together in a
two-stage
water filtration system. In other embodiments, a single apparatus (10) may be
used in a
single-stage system, or additional apparatuses (10) may be connected for a
greater number
of stages. As non-limiting examples, the system may be a point-of-use system
beneath a
sink to filter water for a single faucet, or as a larger point-of-entry or
"whole home" system
in a basement or a utility room to filter water for a plumbing network. In the
embodiment
shown in Figure 11, the inlet fitting (80) of the first apparatus (10a) and
the outlet fitting
(100) of the second apparatus (10b) are connected to an inflow line and an
outflow line,
respectively, of the plumbing network (not shown). A fitting directly connects
the
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distributor outlet (64) of the first apparatus (10a) to the distributor inlet
(62) of the second
apparatus (10b).
[0053] Referring to the embodiment shown in Figure 11, when two of the
apparatuses (10a,
10b) are placed side-by-side, with their distributors (60) abutting each
other, the two
distributors (60) collectively define a groove (154) that has dimensions that
are the same
as the groove (150) defined by a single one of the distributors (60) as shown
in Figure 10.
Accordingly, as shown in Figure 12, a single bracket (120) may be inserted
into the groove
(154) and secured to both distributors (60) with a fastener (140) and used to
mount both
apparatuses (10a, 10b) to a structure, as an alternative to attaching one
bracket (120) to
each distributor (60) as shown in Figure 11.
[0054] When a filter cartridge in one of the apparatuses (10) requires
replacement, the user
rotates the housing assembly relative to the distributor (60) of that
apparatus (10) so that
the arrow marking (38) on the housing lid (22) moves from the closed padlock
icon
marking (39a) labelled "FLOW ON" on the distributor (60) to the open padlock
icon
marking (39c) on the distributor (60). When doing so, the housing lid (22)
engages the
shut-off valve (160) and moves it from the open position to the closed
position, thereby
isolating the apparatus (10) from its connected inflow and outflow lines.
Also, the bottom
surface of the distributor (60) engages pressure-relief valve (180) to move it
from the
closed position to the open position to relieve any gas trapped in the
housing.
[0055] In comparison with a conventional water filtration system, embodiments
of the
apparatus (10) of the present invention may be advantageous in the follow
respects. First,
no tools, or specialized skill is needed to connect the apparatuses (10)
together, to the
inflow and outflow line, or to the bracket (120). Rather, such connections may
be made
entirely by hand with the use of the provided fasteners (140). Second, on
account of their
modular nature, one of the apparatuses (10) may be conveniently removed from
the system
for servicing, or additional apparatuses (10) may be readily added to the
system to increase
the number of filtration stages. Third, the modular nature of the apparatuses
(10) simplifies
manufacturing and inventory management of the apparatus (10) for manufacturers
and
vendors of the apparatus (10). Fourth, no isolation valves need to be
installed on the inflow
CA 2999315 2018-03-26
and outflow lines, since each of the apparatuses (10) is equipped with its own
internal shut-
off valve (160). Fifth, there is no need for the user to undertake separate
steps of closing
valves on the inflow and outflow lines prior to removing the housing assembly
from the
distributor (60). This is because the shut-off valve (160) and the pressure-
relief valve (180)
are actuated by the rotation of the housing assembly relative to the
distributor (60) that also
results in detachment of the housing assembly from the distributor (60).
Sixth, the amount
of torque required by the user to rotate the housing assembly relative to the
distributor (60)
using the bayonet-style mount may be considerably less than the torque
required to unscrew
a housing that is screwed onto a distributor with brute force to create a
water-tight seal.
The amount of torque required to screw the housing assembly onto the
distributor (60) may
be within the range that can be applied by hand of a typical user without the
assistance of
any tool. Seventh, upon removing the housing assembly from the distributor
(60), the
housing lid (22) remains attached to the housing canister (20) to reduce the
risk of spillage
of any water contained in the housing canister (20).
[0056] Interpretation. References in the specification to "one embodiment",
"an
embodiment", etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a
particular aspect,
feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily
includes that
aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases may, but
do not
necessarily, refer to the same embodiment referred to in other portions of the
specification.
Further, when a particular aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic is
described in
connection with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of one skilled in
the art to affect
or connect such module, aspect, feature, structure, or characteristic with
other
embodiments, whether or not explicitly described. In other words, any module,
element or
feature may be combined with any other element or feature in different
embodiments,
unless there is an obvious or inherent incompatibility, or it is specifically
excluded.
[0057] It is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any
optional element.
As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for the use
of exclusive
terminology, such as "solely," "only," and the like, in connection with the
recitation of
claim elements or use of a "negative" limitation. The terms "preferably,"
"preferred,"
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"prefer," "optionally," "may," and similar terms are used to indicate that an
item, condition
or step being referred to is an optional (not required) feature of the
invention.
[0058] The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural reference
unless the
context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and/or" means any one of the
items, any
combination of the items, or all of the items with which this term is
associated. The phrase
"one or more" is readily understood by one of skill in the art, particularly
when read in
context of its usage.
[0059] The term "about" can refer to a variation of 5%, + 10%, 20%, or +
25% of the
value specified. For example, "about 50" percent can in some embodiments carry
a
.. variation from 45 to 55 percent. For integer ranges, the term "about" can
include one or
two integers greater than and/or less than a recited integer at each end of
the range. Unless
indicated otherwise herein, the term "about" is intended to include values and
ranges
proximate to the recited range that are equivalent in terms of the
functionality of the
composition, or the embodiment.
.. [0060] As will be understood by one skilled in the art, for any and all
purposes, particularly
in terms of providing a written description, all ranges recited herein also
encompass any
and all possible sub-ranges and combinations of sub-ranges thereof, as well as
the
individual values making up the range, particularly integer values. A recited
range includes
each specific value, integer, decimal, or identity within the range. Any
listed range can be
easily recognized as sufficiently describing and enabling the same range being
broken
down into at least equal halves, thirds, quarters, fifths, or tenths. As a non-
limiting example,
each range discussed herein can be readily broken down into a lower third,
middle third
and upper third, etc.
[0061] As will also be understood by one skilled in the art, all language such
as "up to",
"at least", "greater than", "less than", "more than", "or more", and the like,
include the
number recited and such terms refer to ranges that can be subsequently broken
down into
sub-ranges as discussed above. In the same manner, all ratios recited herein
also include
all sub-ratios falling within the broader ratio.
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