Filter head and water treatment system

Abstract

Filter head (1) with a housing (100) having an inlet (2) and an outlet (3) for connection to a building water pipe, wherein a filter cartridge (40) with a filter cartridge inlet (41) and a filter cartridge outlet (42) can be inserted into the filter head (1), wherein the filter head (1) has means for setting a desired degree of softening by setting a blending ratio, characterized in that a conductivity measuring cell (205) is arranged in the inlet (2) and in the outlet (3) of the filter head (1), which is integrated in a removable connection piece (200a, 200b) connected to the housing (100) of the filter head (1).

Description

Field of invention

[0001] The invention relates to a filter head for a filter cartridge for water treatment. The invention further relates to an extension set for a filter head. Background of the invention

[0002] For water treatment, especially in households and the catering industry, systems are commonly used that include a filter head into which a filter cartridge can be inserted. The filter head is installed inline in an existing, i.e., pressurized, water line.

[0003] A filter cartridge containing a water treatment medium, which includes an ion exchange material and substances for removing pollutants and bacteria, such as activated carbon, is inserted into this filter head.

[0004] Such a filter head is known, for example, from the German patent application DE 10 2017 129 559 A1 (BWT AG).

[0005] It goes without saying that the filter cartridge must be replaced regularly, as the filter medium, especially the ion exchange material, becomes depleted. Such a replacement can be done based on time, but this does not take into account the amount of water that has already been treated by the system.

[0006] It therefore makes sense to base the exchange on the amount of treated water. This can be determined, for example, by a flow meter installed in the pipe or by a connected device with a flow meter, such as a hot beverage preparation machine.

[0007] At least in the case of a water meter, the user must remember to check the meter reading regularly.

[0008] It is also known from the aforementioned system to adjust the degree of softening according to the hardness of the incoming water and the desired softening.

[0009] In the aforementioned system, this is achieved by the filter head and / or filter cartridge including an adjustable bypass. This bypass allows a partial flow of water that has not passed through the ion exchange material to be diverted and then mixed with the water that has passed through the ion exchange material. Typically, the bypass is adjusted when the filter head is installed, based on the hardness of the incoming water.

[0010] However, it is understood that the hardness of the incoming water can change. Furthermore, as explained above, the ion exchange material is consumed.

[0011] Basically, hardness-causing ions, such as calcium, are replaced by other ions, such as hydrogen, via an ion exchange material, which can be designed in particular as a weakly acidic ion exchange resin.

[0012] These are equilibrium reactions, so that such an exchange depends, among other things, on the proportion of the ion exchanger's loading with the exchange ions.

[0013] Surprisingly, it is possible to keep the filter cartridge replacement within a desired range over a long period. Nevertheless, a significant decrease in softening efficiency occurs, particularly towards the end of the cartridge's lifespan. Theoretically, to extend the filter cartridge's lifespan, one could gradually reduce the partial flow routed through the bypass to compensate for the diminishing softening effect.

[0014] However, this is not very practical and would also require constant monitoring of the hardness of the source water in order to implement it effectively.

[0015] A further problem is that the softening effect also depends heavily on the residence time of the water being treated in the filter cartridge. This can lead to undesirably high softening levels, especially when only small amounts of water are drawn continuously and / or when water is drawn repeatedly for short periods, despite the bypass. Object of the invention

[0016] In contrast, the invention is based on the objective of at least reducing the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art.

[0017] In particular, it is an object of the invention to provide a filter head or a system with a filter head and a filter cartridge which is convenient and easy to adjust and which enables a uniform softening effect. Summary of the invention

[0018] The object of the invention is already solved by a filter head, a system with a filter head and by an extension set for a filter head according to one of the independent claims.

[0019] Preferred embodiments and further developments of the invention can be found in the subject matter of the dependent claims, the description and the drawings.

[0020] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to a filter head with a housing having an inlet and an outlet for connection to a building's water pipe.

[0021] The filter head is designed for inline installation in a pressurized water system. For this purpose, the filter head includes an inlet and an outlet, allowing it to be installed pressure-tight within the water system.

[0022] A filter cartridge with a filter cartridge inlet and a filter cartridge outlet can be inserted into the filter head.

[0023] Such a filter cartridge may, for example, have a thread through which the filter cartridge is connected to the filter head.

[0024] The filter candle inlet and outlet can, for example, be designed as coaxial channels, in particular as a central channel surrounded by a ring channel.

[0025] From the filter head, the incoming water is directed into the filter cartridge. There, it passes through at least one water treatment medium, in particular an ion exchange material, and flows back into the filter head via the filter cartridge outlet, before being directed to the point of use.

[0026] The filter head also includes means for setting a desired degree of softening by adjusting a blending quantity.

[0027] The filter head therefore includes at least one device to adjust the partial flow ratio of a bypass to a partial flow that passes completely through the ion exchange material.

[0028] The filter head can be designed in such a way that only a portion of the water to be treated passes through the filter cartridge, while the bypass flow is not directed through the filter cartridge and is therefore not softened. This bypass water can be blended within the head with the water that passes through the filter cartridge.

[0029] Preferably, the blending takes place within the filter cartridge. In particular, it is provided that the filter head has an adjusting element which engages with the filter cartridge and, via a drive mechanism, changes the partial flow ratio within the filter cartridge.

[0030] In principle, such a system is known, for example, as the system marketed by the applicant under the trademark "Bestmax". In this system, a partial flow ratio within the filter cartridge is regulated by the axial displacement of a sleeve engaging with the filter cartridge, via which the bypass can be successively opened and closed.

[0031] This has the advantage that the bypass current also passes through part of the filter cartridge and can, for example, be directed at least through a pollutant-removing material, such as activated carbon.

[0032] According to the invention, the filter head further comprises a flow meter.

[0033] The flow meter can be used to measure the volume flow passing through the filter head.

[0034] Furthermore, the filter head includes at least one conductivity measuring device.

[0035] The conductivity measuring device can be used to determine the conductivity of the incoming and / or outgoing water.

[0036] Experts know that conductivity can be used to infer the hardness of water. While conductivity primarily determines the concentration of total ions, water hardness can still be estimated with good accuracy based on conductivity, as it depends mainly on the concentration of dissolved calcium and magnesium ions.

[0037] The conductivity measuring device is specifically designed as a conductivity measuring cell, which comprises at least two spaced-apart electrodes. The electrical resistance of the water can be determined via the electrodes, from which the water hardness can then be deduced.

[0038] Since electrical resistance is temperature-dependent, the conductivity measuring device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention includes a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor allows for a more precise determination of the conductivity of the incoming and / or outgoing water.

[0039] The filter head also includes an interface for data transmission to an external unit and an integrated computing unit.

[0040] The integrated computing unit can be used to evaluate the signals from the flow meter and the conductivity measuring device.

[0041] For example, the integrated computing unit can calculate the current flow rate, the volume of water treated since the filter cartridge was replaced, and the hardness of the incoming and / or outgoing water.

[0042] These values ​​can be displayed, for example, on a display located on the filter head and / or on an external display.

[0043] The data transmission interface can be used to program the filter head via an external unit, for example to set the desired hardness level of the output water.

[0044] The measured values ​​obtained can be transmitted to an external unit via cable or wirelessly.

[0045] It is particularly intended that the filter head according to the invention can communicate bidirectionally with a mobile device via a wireless interface, in particular WLAN and / or Bluetooth.

[0046] A program may be installed on the mobile device. This program can, for example, display information about the hardness of the incoming and / or outgoing water, the current flow rate, the total amount of treated water within a predefined and / or adjustable period, etc.

[0047] In particular, the mobile device can also indicate when a filter cartridge needs to be replaced.

[0048] Preferably, the service life of the filter cartridge is calculated based on the amount of water that has flowed through the ion exchange material and / or through the filter head in total since the last replacement.

[0049] The calculation can also take into account the degree of softening, in particular based on the electrical conductivity of the incoming and outgoing water.

[0050] Furthermore, the ratio of water passing through the bypass to water passing through the ion exchange material can be included in the calculation. This allows, in particular, conclusions to be drawn about the amount of water passing through the ion exchange material.

[0051] Based on conductivity measurements, it is possible to better utilize the capacity of the ion exchange material.

[0052] In particular, in an embodiment where the blending ratio is automatically adjustable via the integrated computing unit, the filter head can successively reduce the blending quantity as the ion exchange material becomes increasingly exhausted, which can significantly extend the service life of a filter cartridge.

[0053] Preferably, the flow meter and / or the interface for data transmission to the external unit as well as the integrated computing unit are integrated in the housing of the filter head.

[0054] This eliminates the need for any additional components connected to the filter head. Nevertheless, a compact design of the filter head is still possible.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a conductivity measuring cell is arranged at the inlet and outlet of the filter head.

[0056] This allows the degree of softening and thus the exhaustion of the ion exchange material to be calculated precisely.

[0057] At least one conductivity measuring cell can be arranged in a connector attached to the filter head housing. In particular, this connector can be removable, allowing the filter head to be adapted to different pipe diameters and / or different installation situations.

[0058] The integration of at least one conductivity measuring cell enables a compact design, since the channel forming the input and output can be used as a measuring cell, especially in which the two measuring electrodes are opposite each other.

[0059] Furthermore, the measuring cells, which are sensitive to deposits such as limescale, can be easily removed and cleaned or replaced together with the connecting piece.

[0060] The measuring cell may include an electrical connection which is connected to the integrated computing unit via a cable connection.

[0061] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the means for setting a desired degree of softening comprise an actuator connected to the computing unit.

[0062] The mixing ratio can be automatically adjusted via the actuator. This allows for automatic readjustment, for example to compensate for the decreasing softening effect of the ion exchange material during the lifespan of the filter cartridge.

[0063] Furthermore, the actuator can also be controlled depending on the flow rate. For example, the bypass flow rate can be increased as the flow rate decreases. This compensates for the longer residence time of the water being treated in the ion exchange bed under these conditions.

[0064] Furthermore, measurement curves can also be stored on the processing unit. This allows the processing unit to take into account, in particular, the amount of water present in the filter cartridge, so that when a tap is opened, the bypass flow rate is initially increased. This compensates for the fact that the water in the filter cartridge, due to its longer residence time, is significantly softer than the outlet water during continuous operation.

[0065] The actuator can, for example, be designed as a motor-operated threaded spindle, via which an actuating element for regulating the cutting ratio is moved.

[0066] In a further development of the invention, the at least one conductivity measuring cell, the interface for data transmission to an external unit and / or the integrated computing unit are arranged in an extension module that can be coupled to the basic housing.

[0067] According to this embodiment of the invention, it is possible to easily retrofit a filter head that does not have the functionality of transmitting data to external units and / or measuring the softening effect.

[0068] The connectable expansion module can in particular be designed as a housing extension which can be connected to a main housing.

[0069] The filter head itself may also have a programming interface for the control unit. This allows, for example, the replacement of a filter cartridge and / or a desired hardness level of the incoming water to be programmed.

[0070] In a further development of the invention, the filter head comprises means for detecting a filter cartridge. In particular, the filter head can include an RFID reading device.

[0071] The filter cartridge is thus identifiable. In particular, it allows for the automated detection of whether a filter cartridge has been replaced and, if so, what type of filter cartridge it is. This enables the system to automatically adapt to filter cartridges with different filter beds. For example, some filter cartridges may have a different capacity due to a different loading of the ion exchange material and / or a different fill quantity of ion exchange material.

[0072] The ion exchange material can, for example, be partially loaded with magnesium to release magnesium into the water being treated. Such a filter cartridge has a slightly lower capacity compared to one containing only hydrogen-loaded ion exchange material.

[0073] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a filter head, in particular a filter head with one or more of the features described above.

[0074] The filter head comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet for connection to a building water pipe, wherein a filter candle with a filter candle inlet and a filter candle outlet can be inserted into the filter head.

[0075] The filter head also includes means for adjusting a desired degree of softening by setting a blending ratio according to the aforementioned definition. These means can be designed in particular as described above.

[0076] According to the invention, the filter head comprises at least one connector with an integrated conductivity measuring cell.

[0077] At least one connector is removable, especially from the filter head.

[0078] The integration of at least one conductivity measuring cell in the input and / or output enables a compact design, since, as explained above, an input or output channel can be optimally used as a measuring cell with opposing electrodes.

[0079] A removable inlet or outlet, in particular a connector for connection to a building-provided line, can enable the retrofitting of a filter head with a conductivity measuring cell.

[0080] Secondly, the conductivity cell can be more easily replaced or cleaned.

[0081] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a filter head, in particular a filter head with one or more of the features described above.

[0082] The filter head comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet for connection to a building's water supply, and a filter cartridge with a filter cartridge inlet and a filter cartridge outlet can be inserted into the filter head. The filter head also includes means for adjusting the desired degree of water softening by setting a blending ratio.

[0083] According to the invention, a flow meter is integrated into the housing of the filter head.

[0084] The flow meter can in particular comprise a housing with an inlet and an outlet, which is arranged in an extension of the main housing and which is connected between an outlet of a filter candle and the outlet for connection to the building's water supply or which is connected between the inlet for connection to the building's water supply and an inlet of a filter candle.

[0085] On the flow side, the flow rate is measured either before or after the filter cartridge inside the housing of the filter head.

[0086] The flow meter can be positioned, in particular, approximately at the level of the inlet and outlet of the filter cartridge.

[0087] This enables easy integration with short cable lengths.

[0088] It is specifically provided that a main housing of the filter head includes connections for the housing of the flow meter.

[0089] The flow meter can, for example, be arranged in a housing extension.

[0090] In particular, the flow meter can also be part of an expansion module.

[0091] This allows a filter head to be provided in which the connections for the flow meter are connected to each other by a line, in particular by a U-shaped piece of pipe.

[0092] To retrofit a flow meter, this section of pipe can be replaced with the flow meter.

[0093] In particular, a connectable housing extension can contain the flow meter and an integrated computing unit, as well as an optional interface for data transmission.

[0094] The integrated computing unit can in turn be electrically connected to a conductivity measuring cell, which can be provided as an interchangeable connector as part of an expansion set.

[0095] The flow meter can be designed in particular as a turbine meter, especially as a radial meter.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the axis of the turbine wheel is designed parallel to the insertion direction of a filter candle.

[0097] The turbine wheel is therefore arranged vertically in its intended installation position, making it particularly easy to integrate into a compact housing.

[0098] These types of turbine water meters allow for accurate measurement across a wide measuring range.

[0099] Such a turbine wheel counter is known, for example, from the publication WO 2019 / 202134 A1 (BWT AG).

[0100] For example, a measurement signal can be generated via an inductive sensor using such a turbine wheel counter.

[0101] The invention further relates to a water treatment system comprising at least one filter head as described above and a filter candle inserted into the filter head.

[0102] The filter cartridge includes at least one ion exchange material.

[0103] The invention further relates to an extension set for a filter head, in particular for a filter head with one or more features described above.

[0104] The extension set includes a connector that can be connected to an input and / or output of the filter head, the connector including an integrated conductivity measuring cell.

[0105] The expansion set can also include a computing unit and an interface for data transmission to an external unit.

[0106] Such an electronic module can, in particular, be arranged in a removable housing extension.

[0107] Furthermore, a flow meter, in particular a flow meter as described above, can also be part of such an extension set. List of characters

[0108] The subject matter of the invention will below be described with reference to exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings. Fig. 1 to Fig. 16 will be explained in more detail. Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows perspective views of a filter head according to the invention. Fig. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a filter candle. Fig. Figure 4 is another perspective view of the filter head. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view of a connector. Fig. Figure 6 shows a quick-release coupling piece with which the connector can be attached. Fig. Figure 7 is a radial sectional view of the connector. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective detail view of the filter head, with the housing of the housing extension removed. Fig. Figure 9 is another perspective detail view. Fig. Figure 10 is a radial sectional view of the flow meter housing. Fig. Figure 11 shows a view of the filter head in the area of ​​the housing extension, with the flow meter removed so that the circuit board is fully visible. Fig. 12 and Fig. Figure 13 shows cross-sectional views of the filter head. Fig. Figure 14 is an axial sectional view of the filter head. Fig. 15 and Fig. Figure 16 schematically shows exemplary embodiments of a filter head which can be coupled to an external unit. Detailed description of the drawings

[0109] Fig. Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a filter head according to the invention in a perspective view. 1 .

[0110] The filter head 1 It can be inserted inline into a building's existing water pipe and includes an inlet for this purpose. 2 as well as an exit 3 .

[0111] Entrance 2 and exit 3 are as removable connectors 200a , 200b trained.

[0112] The connectors 200a , 200b are angled, with the connections facing away from the housing 100 of the filter head 1 They can be mounted in different angular positions to adapt to different installation situations.

[0113] The case 100 In this embodiment, the filter head can be accessed via the coupling 103 to be connected to a wall-side support (not shown).

[0114] The connectors 200a , 200b can be achieved by unscrewing a quick-release coupling piece. 104 lose weight.

[0115] The case 100 of the filter head 1 In this embodiment, the front is equipped with a display. 101as well as a control panel 102 provided.

[0116] On the display 101 For example, the current flow rate, the treated volume since the last filter cartridge replacement, or the hardness of the source water can be read.

[0117] Via the control panel 102 For example, different values ​​can be displayed by pressing the button multiple times.

[0118] Furthermore, the control panel 102 include a reset button, which, for example, resets a counter for the lifespan of the filter cartridge after the filter cartridge has been replaced.

[0119] The filter head 1 In one embodiment, it comprises an upwardly projecting actuating element. 105 , which allows the blending ratio to be manually adjusted to adapt the desired softening to the hardness of the incoming water.

[0120] Preferably, however, the cutting ratio is set automatically, for example via a motor-driven threaded spindle. In this embodiment of the invention, a suitably designed display for the cutting ratio can be used. 105 be present. The display 105 can a window 123 include a scale behind the window from which the setting of the cutting ratio can be read. 123 is located (see also Fig. 4).

[0121] The filter head also includes 1 the actuating device 106 for a flushing valve.

[0122] By activating the operating mechanism 106 is used with a built-in filter head 101 Water is discharged on the outlet side via a pipe designed, for example, as a hose section.

[0123] The flushing valve is primarily used to flood a newly installed filter cartridge and then rinse the cartridge thoroughly, removing suspended solids and allowing the exchange reactions in the ion exchange material to begin. The water initially discharged in this way is discarded.

[0124] Fig. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the underside of the filter head. 1 .

[0125] The filter head comprises a main housing 101a, which is connected to a housing extension. 110 is coupled. The housing extension 110 is preferably as from the main housing 100a Removable housing part designed.

[0126] The case extension 110 In this embodiment, it includes a cable gland. 111 , via which, for example, an external unit, such as a display or programming device, is connected to the housing extension 110can be coupled to an integrated computing unit and / or via the electrical and electronic components of the filter head. 1 can be supplied with electrical power.

[0127] The filter head includes a base. 1 an internal thread 112 , into which the filter candle (see Fig. 3) is screwed in.

[0128] In this embodiment, the filter head includes a central outlet. 107 to the filter candle. The output 107 In this embodiment, the filter candle is designed as a sleeve with at least one through-hole.

[0129] As an entrance 108 In this embodiment, a ring channel is used for water coming from the filter candle. 108 provided, which is around the outlet to the filter candle 107 extends.

[0130] In this ring canal 108 An actuator protrudes 109 for a shut-off valve of the inlet.

[0131] Screwing in the filter candle activates the adjusting mechanism. 109 It is only pushed back when the filter cartridge is already sealing against the filter head. 1 is connected.

[0132] The water supply is automatically closed when the filter candle is removed and reopened when the filter candle is inserted.

[0133] Fig. Figure 3 shows a suitable filter candle in a perspective view. 40 .

[0134] The filter candle 40 includes a head piece with an external thread.

[0135] A central pipe forms the entrance. 41 the filter candle, around which a ring channel is located 42 as an exit.

[0136] Via the central downpipe of the entrance 41 Can water get into the filter candle? 40 is introduced, which then flows through the filter medium and at the outlet 42 re-enters the country.

[0137] This central tube can include at least one opening (not shown). The sleeve of the outlet engages in this tube when connected ( 107 in Fig. 1) The blending ratio can be adjusted.

[0138] Some of the water escapes from the side of the pipe and does not pass through the entire filter section. Instead, this water is preferably only subjected to purification, for example using activated carbon.

[0139] Fig. Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the back of the filter head. 1 .

[0140] The case extension 110 can be part of an expansion set to extend the filter head 1 to be supplemented with the additional functionality according to the invention or can be removed to retrofit components of an expansion set, in particular a flow meter and / or a computing unit.

[0141] The connecting pieces as well 200a , 200b They can also be part of an expansion set.

[0142] The connectors 200a , 200b Each includes an electrical connection 201 The electrical connection 201 In this embodiment, it is designed as a plug connection.

[0143] One in the shell extension 110 The arranged electronics can be connected to the electrical connection via a cable connection (not shown). 201 be connected.

[0144] Fig. Figure 5 shows a connecting piece in a perspective view, namely the connecting piece 200b of the exit.

[0145] The connector 200b The outlet of the filter head includes a backflow preventer. 204 . Due to the backflow preventer 204No water escapes when the filter cartridge is removed, because the outlet pipe empties.

[0146] The connector 200b In this embodiment, it includes a collar. 206 , in which, in the connected state, the in Fig. 6 quick couplings shown 104 reaches over which the connecting piece 200b It can be easily removed and connected.

[0147] The connector 200b includes an integrated conductivity measuring cell 205 , which provides the electrical connection 201 includes.

[0148] Furthermore, the connecting piece 200b as an angle piece 202 formed. A straight connecting piece is also possible in accordance with the invention.

[0149] The connection 203 For example, a pipe installed on-site can be designed as a thread.

[0150] Fig. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the connector in the area of ​​the conductivity measuring cell. 205 .

[0151] The conductivity measuring cell 205 comprises two opposing electrodes 207a , 207b, which leads into the canal 208 protrusion formed by the connecting piece.

[0152] Furthermore, the conductivity measuring cell includes 205 a temperature sensor not shown.

[0153] Fig. Figure 8 shows a perspective detail view of the back of the filter head, with the housing extension ( 110 in Fig. 4) has been taken.

[0154] A flow meter is integrated into the housing extension. 300 , which the case 301 includes.

[0155] Below the flow meter is a computing unit. 400 , which is a circuit board 401 includes.

[0156] The circuit board 401includes a connection 403 , for example, for conductivity measuring cells.

[0157] In this embodiment, the circuit board comprises 401 a battery 402 , which can be designed in particular as a button cell.

[0158] The battery 402 can, as provided for in one embodiment, supply power to the computing unit 400 serve.

[0159] Furthermore, according to another embodiment, it is possible to supply the computing unit with voltage via a cable, with the battery 402 It is only present to prevent data loss in the event of a power outage on the mains side.

[0160] computing unit 400 and housing 301 the flow meter 300 They are stacked on top of each other. This allows for a compact design and the arrangement of signal processing components for the flow meter. 300directly on the circuit board 401 .

[0161] Fig. Figure 9 is another perspective view of the flow meter area, with an upper housing part of the flow meter removed.

[0162] This view clearly shows that the flow meter has an inlet. 302 and has an exit. Via entrance 302 and exit 303 Water flows through the flow meter.

[0163] The entrance 302 and exit 303 Since the flow meters are arranged parallel to each other, a U-shaped piece of pipe with the corresponding connections can easily be used instead of the flow meter.

[0164] This allows a filter head to be provided without a flow meter, which can easily be extended to include a flow meter by replacing the pipe section with the flow meter.

[0165] The circuit board has another electrical connection. 404 , which, for example, connects the display ( 101 in Fig. 1) serves.

[0166] The connection cable for the display (not shown) can be routed through the housing of the filter head, in particular along the side wall of the housing.

[0167] Fig. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the filter head in the area of ​​the flow meter. 300 .

[0168] The flow meter 300 includes a turbine wheel 304 , which is arranged as a radial turbine and lies flat in the housing 301 sits.

[0169] Such a flow meter 300 It is compact in design, delivers an accurate measurement result and causes only relatively low flow loss.

[0170] Furthermore, the turbine wheel can 304To generate a measurement signal, at least one magnet or ferromagnetic insert (not shown) must be included.

[0171] The rotational speed of the turbine wheel can be measured using an inductive sensor. 304 and thus the flow rate can be measured. A corresponding calibration curve can be stored in the processing unit.

[0172] Fig. Figure 11 shows the circuit board located in the housing extension of the filter head. 401 , whereby the flow meter has now been removed.

[0173] The circuit board 401 Even sensor surfaces can be used. 405a , 405b include.

[0174] The sensor surfaces 405a , 405b For example, they can be part of an integrated inductive sensor and thus directly detect the rotational speed of the turbine wheel of the flow meter.

[0175] Fig. 12 is a cross-section of the filter head 1in the area of ​​the connections (2,3), whereby this view is shown from below.

[0176] The central exit is particularly noticeable. 107 to the filter candle, around which the ring channel 108 Designed inlet for water flowing from the filter candle.

[0177] In this ring canal 108 the actuating element protrudes 109 for the inlet valve 113 , above which the entrance 2 It is sealed when the filter cartridge is removed.

[0178] The water flowing from the filter candle flows over the channel extending outwards. 114 in the flow meter 300 and displaces the turbine wheel 304 depending on the flow rate in motion.

[0179] The axis of the turbine wheel 304 is parallel to the insertion direction of the filter candle, therefore parallel to the output 107 and to the entrance 108aligned.

[0180] The flat design of the casing facilitates a compact design.

[0181] From the flow meter 300 The water also flows across the canal at approximately the same level. 115 to the exit 3 .

[0182] The backflow preventer can be seen in the cross-sectional view. 204 , which determines the outcome 3 when removing the filter cartridge, it remains closed so that no water flows back.

[0183] Fig. 13 is another cross-section of the filter candle 1 , now showing a view from above.

[0184] In this sectional view, it is clearly visible that the channels lead to 114 and from 115 to the turbine wheel. 304 both through the housing 301 as well as through the main casing 100a Laying lines are formed.

[0185] The case 301The flow meter is thus secured by means of the seals. 121 and 122 sealed to the channels of the filter head.

[0186] Furthermore, it can be seen that the casing 301 directly on the circuit board 401 is placed.

[0187] Fig. Figure 14 is an axial sectional view of the filter head.

[0188] The cross-sectional view shows that the exit 107 a sleeve for the filter candle 117 with at least one passage 119 includes.

[0189] The sleeve 117 includes a seal 118 and, in its connected state, engages the central tube of the filter candle.

[0190] Via the threaded spindle, which can be driven by an actuator (not visible in this view). 116 , which is displayed 105 for the bypass, the sleeve 117 axial displacement.

[0191] Depending on the position of the sleeve 117 Thus, in the downpipe of the filter candle, depending on the axial position of the sleeve, 117 Different numbers of holes are opened or closed, or the cross-section of an elongated hole is opened more or less to the side. This allows the cutting ratio to be adjusted.

[0192] The hose connection is also visible. 120 , to which a hose can be connected to drain the water that comes out when the flush valve is activated.

[0193] Fig. Figure 15 schematically shows a filter head. 1 , which in this embodiment does not include its own display device.

[0194] The filter head 1 However, it can otherwise be designed as described above.

[0195] The filter head 1It has a wireless communication device, such as Bluetooth or WLAN, and can therefore be used with a mobile device 5 establish a data connection.

[0196] Via a mobile device 5 During the running program, data such as water hardness, water quantity, etc. can be retrieved.

[0197] Furthermore, the predicted remaining lifespan of the filter candle can be displayed.

[0198] Finally, it is possible to change the desired degree of softening, which can be determined relatively precisely via the conductivity measuring cells at the input and output.

[0199] Fig. Figure 16 shows an embodiment in which the filter head 1 via a cable to an external unit 60 is connected.

[0200] The external unit can be a display 61 and / or a control panel 62 include the cable 63 can be done, for example, via the in Fig. 2 cable entry shown ( 111 ) be connected to the computing unit.

[0201] The functionality of the display 61 and control panel 62 can the one who is in Fig. 1. The embodiment shown has a display on the filter head.

[0202] The connection via cable 63 has the advantage that the external unit 60 It may be located in a different place.

[0203] In particular, the filter head can be located under the table, for example in the catering industry, whereas the external unit 60 It is easily accessible above a table, for example mounted on a wall.

[0204] The invention made it possible to provide a user-friendly and adjustable filter head, while simultaneously ensuring more uniform softening and a longer service life for the filter cartridge. Reference symbol list 1 filter head 2 Entrance 3 Exit 40 filter candles 41 Filter candle inlet 42 Filter candle outlet 43 external threads 5 Mobile device 60 external unit 61 Display 62 Control panel 63 cables 100 cases 100a Main Housing 101 Display 102 Control panel 103 Clutch 104 Quick coupling / quick coupling piece 105 Actuating element / display Blend ratio 106 Actuating element for flushing valve 107 Outlet to filter candle 108 Inlet for water flowing from the filter candle 109 Actuator for shut-off valve inlet 110 Housing extension 111 Cable entry 112 internal threads 113 Inlet valve 114 Channel to flow meter 115 Channel from the flow meter 116 Threaded spindle 117 Sleeve 118 Seal 119 Passage 120 hose connection 121 Seal 122 Seal 123 windows 200a, b Connection piece with conductivity measuring cell 201 electrical connection 202 Angle piece 203 Connection for on-site wiring 204 backflow preventers 205 Conductivity measuring cell 206 collars 207a, b Electronics Channel 208 300 flow meters 301 Housing Entrance 302 Exit 303 304 Turbine wheel 400 computing units 401 circuit board 402 Battery 403 electrical connection 404 electrical connection 405a, b Sensor area QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 102017129559 A1

[0004] WO 2019 / 202134 A1

[0099]

Claims

[1] Filter head with a housing with an inlet and an outlet for connection to an on-site water pipe, wherein a filter candle with a filter candle inlet and a filter candle outlet can be inserted into the filter head, wherein the filter head has means for setting a desired degree of softening by setting a blend ratio, wherein the filter head comprises a flow meter and at least one conductivity measuring device, in particular a conductivity measuring cell, and wherein the filter head has an interface for data transmission to an external unit and an integrated computing unit. [2] Filter head according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the flow meter, the interface for data transmission to an external unit and the integrated computing unit are integrated in the housing of the filter head. [3] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a conductivity measuring cell is arranged at the input and output. [4] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one conductivity measuring cell is arranged in a connecting piece connected to the housing of the filter head, in particular in a removable connecting piece. [5] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the means for setting a desired degree of softening comprise an actuator connected to the computing unit. [6] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the at least one conductivity measuring cell, the interface for data transmission to an external unit and / or the integrated computing unit are arranged in an extension module that can be coupled to a basic housing. [7] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the at least one conductivity measuring cell comprises a temperature sensor. [8] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the filter head has a display on which values calculated by the computing unit can be shown, and / or that a programming interface for the computing unit is available on the filter head and / or on the external unit, and / or that the filter head has means for detecting a filter candle, in particular an RFID reading device. [9] Filter head, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, with a housing with an inlet and an outlet for connection to an on-site water pipe, wherein a filter candle with a filter candle inlet and a filter candle outlet can be inserted into the filter head, wherein the filter head has means for setting a desired degree of softening by setting a blend ratio, characterized in that the filter head comprises at least one connecting piece with an integrated conductivity measuring cell. [10] Filter head, in particular according to one of the preceding claims, with a housing with an inlet and an outlet for connection to an on-site water pipe, wherein a filter candle with a filter candle inlet and a filter candle outlet can be inserted into the filter head, wherein the filter head has means for setting a desired degree of softening by setting a blend ratio, characterized in that a flow meter is integrated in the housing of the filter head. [11] Filter head according to the preceding claim, characterized by that the flow meter comprises a housing with an inlet and an outlet, which is arranged in an extension of a main housing and which is connected between an outlet of a filter candle and the outlet for connection to the on-site water pipe or between the inlet for connection to the on-site water pipe and an inlet of a filter candle. [12] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the flow meter is positioned approximately at the level of the inlet and outlet of the filter candle. [13] Filter head according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the flow meter is designed as a turbine wheel meter, wherein the axis of the turbine wheel is aligned parallel to the insertion direction of a filter candle. [14] A water treatment system comprising a filter head according to any one of the preceding claims, and a filter candle inserted into the filter head, which comprises at least one ion exchange material. [15] Extension set for a filter head, in particular a filter head according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a connecting piece connectable to an inlet and / or outlet of the filter head, wherein the connecting piece comprises an integrated conductivity measuring cell.

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