A filter, shower system and water heater

CN112915637BActive Publication Date: 2026-09-25WUHU MIDEA KITCHEN & BATH APPLIANCES MFG CO LTD +1
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202110148257.1
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2021-02-03
Publication Date
2026-09-25
Estimated Expiration
2041-02-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

通常滤料置于过滤器的内腔中,在过滤器的出水口设置滤网以防止滤料漏出,但是经过长时间使用,滤料会在滤网上堆积,导致出水流量逐步减少,影响使用

Benefits of technology

[0007]根据本发明实施例的过滤器,至少具有如下有益效果:过滤器在使用中,水流从进水口流入过滤腔,经过滤料而从过滤组件的进水孔流入内腔,同时利用滤网阻隔滤料,防止滤料进入内腔,水流再从过滤组件的出水孔、壳体的出水口流出,由于过滤组件的周面设置多个进水孔,滤料位于过滤组件外,水从过滤组件外的全方位流入内腔,具有立体的过滤流通面,有效减少滤料在滤网上堆积,改善水流随着使用时长而变小的问题。

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Abstract

The application discloses a filter, a shower system and a water heater. The filter comprises a shell, the shell has a filter cavity for accommodating filter material, one end of the shell is provided with a water inlet, and the other end is provided with a water outlet; a filter assembly is located in the filter cavity, the filter assembly has an inner cavity, one end of the filter assembly is provided with a water outlet hole communicating with the inner cavity, the water outlet hole is connected with the water outlet, the peripheral surface of the filter assembly is provided with a plurality of water inlet holes, and the filter assembly is provided with a filter screen covering the water inlet holes; and the filter material is located in the filter cavity, water flows through the filter material and flows out to the water outlet hole through the water inlet holes. In use, the filter simultaneously uses the filter screen to block the filter material and prevent the filter material from entering the inner cavity. Since the peripheral surface of the filter assembly is provided with a plurality of water inlet holes, the filter material is located outside the filter assembly, water flows into the inner cavity from all directions outside the filter assembly, the filter assembly has a three-dimensional filter flow-through surface, the accumulation of the filter material on the filter screen is effectively reduced, and the problem that the water flow becomes smaller with the use time is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of filter technology, and particularly to filters, shower systems, and water heaters. Background Technology

[0002] Tap water contains residual chlorine, which easily evaporates after heating. During showering, this chlorine can form aerosols that are inhaled and harm the user's health. Therefore, shower systems are equipped with filters to remove residual chlorine. Current technologies mostly use reducing agents such as KDF filter media to remove residual chlorine. Typically, the filter media is placed inside the filter's cavity, and a filter screen is installed at the outlet to prevent leakage. However, over time, filter media accumulates on the screen, gradually reducing the water flow and affecting usability. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a filter that can effectively improve the problem of reduced water flow rate.

[0004] The present invention also proposes a shower system that includes the above-mentioned filter.

[0005] The present invention also proposes a water heater comprising the above-described filter.

[0006] A filter according to a first aspect of the present invention includes: a housing having a filter chamber for accommodating filter media, one end of the housing having a water inlet and the other end having a water outlet; a filter assembly located within the filter chamber, the filter assembly having an inner cavity, one end of the filter assembly having a water outlet communicating with the inner cavity, the water outlet being connected to the water outlet, a plurality of water inlets being provided on the peripheral surface of the filter assembly, and a filter screen covering the water inlets; and filter media located within the filter chamber, through which water flows and out through the water inlets to the water outlet.

[0007] The filter according to embodiments of the present invention has at least the following beneficial effects: During use, water flows into the filter chamber from the inlet, passes through the filter media, and flows into the inner cavity from the inlet hole of the filter assembly. At the same time, the filter screen blocks the filter media, preventing it from entering the inner cavity. The water then flows out from the outlet hole of the filter assembly and the outlet of the housing. Since multiple inlet holes are provided on the circumferential surface of the filter assembly, and the filter media is located outside the filter assembly, water flows into the inner cavity from all directions outside the filter assembly, providing a three-dimensional filtration flow surface. This effectively reduces the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen and improves the problem of water flow decreasing over time.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter assembly includes a filter screen frame, the filter screen frame being cylindrical to form an inlet channel on the outside of the filter screen frame.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, one end of the filter screen frame facing the water inlet is a closed end, and the closed end is disposed relative to the water inlet to divert the water inlet flow to the periphery of the filter screen frame.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter assembly is provided with an inlet filter screen that covers the inlet.

[0011] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the closed end is provided with a water inlet filter section, which closes the end of the inner cavity facing the water inlet.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the water inlet filter section is provided with a water inlet cavity and a plurality of water passage holes, the water inlet cavity is connected to the water inlet, the water passage holes are connected to the water inlet cavity and the filter cavity, and the water inlet filter screen is attached to the wall of the water inlet cavity to cover the plurality of water passage holes.

[0013] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter screen is disposed on the inner or outer side wall of the filter screen frame, and the filter screen is fitted onto the circumferential surface of the filter screen frame.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, at least one sealing ring is provided between the filter screen and the filter screen frame, the sealing ring being located at the top and / or bottom end of the filter screen.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the end of the filter screen skeleton facing the water outlet is an open end to form the water outlet hole, and the open end is sealed to the housing.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing is connected to a detachable end cap, the water inlet is disposed on the end cap, and the water inlet filter is connected to the side of the end cap facing the filter chamber.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the end cap is provided with a positioning ring for insertion into the filter chamber, the positioning ring defining the position of the inlet filter screen.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, a sealing gasket is connected to the outer periphery of the inlet filter screen, and the inlet filter screen is fixed in the positioning ring by the sealing gasket.

[0019] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the outer wall of the housing is connected to an outer shell, the outer shell comprising a detachably connected upper half shell and a lower half shell.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the invention, the housing is at least partially made of a transparent material so that changes in the filter media can be observed.

[0021] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing is connected to a water inlet rotating ball head, and the water inlet rotating ball head is provided with a threaded joint.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a shower system includes a filter as described in the first aspect embodiment. The filter can effectively reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen, effectively improve the problem of water flow decreasing with the duration of use, ensure sufficient water flow in the shower system, and enhance the user experience.

[0023] According to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention, a water heater includes a filter as described in the first aspect embodiment. The filter is installed in the internal water circuit of the water heater and removes residual chlorine from the water through filter media. Moreover, the filter can effectively reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen, effectively improve the problem of water flow decreasing over time, ensure sufficient water flow in the shower system, and enhance the user experience.

[0024] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0025] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent and readily understood in conjunction with the following description of the embodiments, in which:

[0026] Figure 1 This is an exploded view of a filter according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a filter according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a filter without its housing according to some embodiments of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a filter according to other embodiments of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view of a filter according to other embodiments of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the filter without its housing according to other embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] The attached icons are numbered as follows:

[0033] Shell 100, filter chamber 101, inlet 110, outlet 120;

[0034] End cap 200, positioning ring 210, surrounding edge 220;

[0035] Filter assembly 300, inner cavity 301, water outlet 302, water inlet 303, filter screen 310, filter screen frame 320, closed end 321, open end 322, water inlet filter section 323, water inlet cavity 3231, water passage hole 3232, sealing ring 330, water inlet filter screen 340, sealing gasket 341;

[0036] Outer shell 400, upper shell 410, spiral groove 411, sealing ring 412, lower shell 420, elastic ring 430, water inlet rotating ball head 440, threaded joint 441. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0038] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation descriptions, such as up, down, front, back, left, right, etc., are based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limiting this invention.

[0039] In the description of this invention, the use of "first" and "second" is for the purpose of distinguishing technical features only, and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated or the order of the technical features indicated.

[0040] In the description of this invention, unless otherwise explicitly defined, terms such as "setting," "installing," and "connecting" should be interpreted broadly, and those skilled in the art can reasonably determine the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention in conjunction with the specific content of the technical solution.

[0041] Reference Figures 1 to 3An embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention provides a filter, comprising: a housing 100 and a filter assembly 300 disposed within the housing 100; the housing 100 having a filter chamber 101 for accommodating filter media; one end of the housing 100 having an inlet 110 communicating with the filter chamber 101, and the other end having an outlet 120 communicating with the filter chamber 101; it is understood that the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 are arranged opposite to each other, and a straight water path is more conducive to water flow and meets the water volume requirements of the shower system; the filter assembly 300 is disposed within the filter chamber 101, and the arrangement direction of the filter assembly 300 can be along the length direction of the filter chamber 101 or along the filter chamber... In the width direction of 101, the filter assembly 300 has an inner cavity 301. One end of the filter assembly 300 is provided with a water outlet 302 communicating with the inner cavity 301. The water outlet 302 is connected to the water outlet 120. Multiple water inlets 303 are provided on the circumferential surface of the filter assembly 300. The filter assembly 300 is provided with a filter screen 310 covering the water inlets 303. The shape of the filter assembly 300 is basically the same as that of the filter cavity 101. The filter media (not shown in the figure) is located inside the filter cavity 101 and surrounds the filter assembly 300, so that the filter media forms a layer of roughly uniform thickness, resulting in better uniformity of filtration effect. Water flows through the filter media and flows out through the water inlets 303 to the water outlet 302. The filter assembly 300 can be provided with a separate filter screen frame 320 to support the filter screen 310, or it can be a bracket integrally formed with the filter screen 310. For example, if the filter screen 310 is made of metal, it can also be a bracket welded to the filter screen 310.

[0042] The filter media uses KDF filter media with reducing properties (KDF is a high-purity copper alloy that can remove heavy metals and acid radicals from water and improve the activation level of water). KDF filter media is a copper-zinc alloy. When KDF filter media is immersed in water, it can form an electrochemical reaction. When KDF filter media comes into contact with water, the copper and zinc on the surface of KDF filter media form many small galvanic cell systems, which exchange electrons with pollutants. By releasing or gaining electrons, the pollutants are converted into harmless substances, thereby effectively removing residual chlorine from the water.

[0043] During use, water flows into the filter chamber 101 from the inlet 110, first contacting the filter media. It's understood that there's a certain distance between the inlet hole 303 of the filter assembly 300 and the inlet 110, so the water must first flow through the filter media and then through the filter assembly 300, using the filter media to remove residual chlorine from the water. Then, the water flows into the inner chamber 301 from the inlet hole 303 of the filter assembly 300, and then flows out through the outlet hole 302 of the filter assembly 300 and the outlet 120 of the housing 100. Because the filter assembly 300 has multiple inlet holes 303 on its circumference, and the filter media surrounds the filter assembly 300, water can flow into the inner chamber 301 from all directions around the outer periphery of the filter assembly 300. The large contact area between the filter media and the filter screen 310, and the three-dimensional contact surface, effectively reduces the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310, improving the problem of reduced water flow caused by filter media accumulation. Furthermore, the large flow area ensures smooth water flow, meeting the water volume requirements of the shower system.

[0044] Reference Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter assembly 300 includes a filter screen frame 320. It is understood that the function of the filter screen frame 320 is to support the filter screen 310 so that the filter screen 310 maintains a predetermined shape. To ensure smooth water flow, the filter screen frame 320 has a frame structure, and multiple water inlet holes 303 are formed on the filter screen frame 320. The mesh size of the filter screen 310 is small, and one water inlet hole 303 corresponds to multiple mesh sizes of the filter screen 310. The filter screen frame 320 is an injection molded part, and the inner cavity 301, water outlet hole 302, and water inlet hole 303 can be injection molded in one step, resulting in a simple manufacturing process and low cost. The filter screen frame 320 can be cylindrical, spherical, or rugby ball-shaped, etc., to match the shape of the filter cavity 101. The filter screen frame 320 supports the filter screen 310, forming a three-dimensional filtration and flow surface.

[0045] Reference Figure 3According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter screen frame 320 is cylindrical, the filter screen 310 is attached to the circumferential surface of the filter screen frame 320, and the filter assembly 300 is cylindrical to form a water inlet channel on the outside of the filter screen frame 320. Multiple water inlet holes 303 are distributed in multiple rings or spirals on the outside of the filter screen frame 320; this regular distribution facilitates smooth water flow and ensures stable flow. It is understood that since the filter assembly 300 is cylindrical, the corresponding filter chamber 101 is also cylindrical. The distance between the end of the filter assembly 300 near the water inlet 110 and the inner wall of the filter chamber 101 is approximately equal to the difference in diameter between the filter assembly 300 and the filter chamber 101, ensuring that the filter media thickness is basically consistent in all directions outside the filter assembly 300, resulting in similar filtration effects and good uniformity. This structure is designed to match the piping of the shower system; the cylindrical filter chamber 101 matches the pipe diameter of the shower system, ensuring smooth water flow and stable flow. The filter element 300 is cylindrical with a length-to-diameter ratio of 3.5 or higher. The area through which water flows through the filter screen 310 is large and cylindrical, which helps to reduce the accumulation of filter media. Compared with the structure of setting the filter screen only at the outlet 120, it increases the flow area and also helps to improve the problem of reduced water flow.

[0046] Reference Figure 2 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the water inlet 110 is a closed end 321. The closed end 321 is disposed relative to the water inlet 110 to divert the water flow to the periphery of the filter screen frame 320. On the one hand, this increases the contact time and area between the water flow and the filter media, improving the effect of removing residual chlorine. On the other hand, the water flow to the periphery of the filter screen frame 320 results in a larger flow area, which helps to reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310. In addition, it also helps to improve the structural strength and rigidity of the filter screen frame 320, maintain the shape stability of the filter screen 310, and ensure the filtration effect. The closed end 321 may also be provided with a limiting part for limiting the filter screen 310. The limiting part may be a convex ring that holds the edge of the filter screen 310, or it may be an external screw that fixes the filter screen 310, making assembly convenient.

[0047] Understandably, referring to Figure 3 The filter screen 310 is disposed on the outer side wall of the filter screen frame 320 to stop the filter material and prevent the filter material from entering the inner cavity 301 of the filter screen frame 320. The filter screen 310 is tightly attached to the circumferential surface of the filter screen frame 320 to prevent the filter material from entering the inner cavity 301 of the filter screen frame 320 from the gap between the filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320. It also facilitates fixing the filter screen 310 and keeping the filter screen 310 in a set shape.

[0048] Reference Figure 3According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, at least one sealing ring 330 is provided between the filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320. For example, two sealing rings 330 are used, which are respectively placed at both ends of the filter screen 310, and multiple water inlet holes 303 are located between the two sealing rings 330. The two sealing rings 330 are used to seal the filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320, preventing water carrying filter media from flowing out between the filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320, and forcing water to enter the water inlet holes 303 through the filter screen 310, thus preventing filter media leakage. Two sealing grooves are provided on the outer peripheral surface of the filter screen frame 320, and the two sealing rings 330 are respectively installed in one sealing groove, which is accurately positioned to prevent the sealing rings 330 from shifting. The filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320 cooperate to clamp the two sealing rings 330, and the friction between the filter screen 310 and the two sealing rings 330 helps to limit the position of the filter screen 310 and prevent the filter screen 310 from shifting.

[0049] It is understood that, according to other embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the filter screen 310 wraps around the end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the water inlet 110, and only one sealing ring 330 is provided between the filter screen 310 and the filter screen frame 320. The filter screen 310 and the sealing ring 330 cooperate to surround multiple water inlet holes 303. Water inlet holes 303 can also be provided at the end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the water inlet 110. The area through which water flows through the filter screen 310 is larger, which is beneficial to increase the flow rate and reduce the water flow resistance.

[0050] It is understandable that the filter screen 310 is made of metal and the filter screen frame 320 is an injection molded part. The filter screen 310 can be heat-fused to the outer circumference of the filter screen frame 320. There is no need to use the sealing ring 330. Water will definitely pass through the filter screen 310 to prevent the filter material from leaking out.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing 100 is connected to an inlet filter screen 340, which covers the inlet 110. The function of the inlet filter screen 340 is to filter out particulate matter and impurities in the water. On the one hand, it prevents impurities from reacting with the filter media and affecting the dechlorination performance of the filter media. On the other hand, it prevents particulate matter from clogging the inlet hole 303 and affecting the water flow.

[0052] Reference Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing 100 is connected to a detachable end cap 200, the water inlet 110 is disposed in the middle of the end cap 200, and the water inlet filter 340 is connected to the side of the end cap 200 facing the filter chamber 101. A sealing gasket 341 is connected to the outer periphery of the water inlet filter 340. The sealing gasket 341 and the end cap 200 are ultrasonically welded to achieve a sealed connection, which has high connection strength, good sealing performance, low cost, is clean and pollution-free, and will not damage the sealing gasket 341 and the end cap 200.

[0053] Reference Figure 3 In the above embodiment, the end cap 200 is further provided with a positioning ring 210 surrounding the sealing gasket 341. The positioning ring 210 defines the position of the sealing gasket 341 and the inlet filter screen 340, facilitating assembly and positioning, preventing the inlet filter screen 340 from shifting, and ensuring that all water flowing into the filter chamber 101 is filtered by the inlet filter screen 340. The end cap 200 is also provided with a perimeter 220 that inserts into the filter chamber 101. The perimeter 220 can be connected to the housing 100 by threads, snap-fit, or interference fit, which facilitates disassembly and assembly, and helps with filter assembly, subsequent maintenance, and filter media replacement.

[0054] Reference Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the water outlet 120 is an open end 322 to form a water outlet hole 302, simplifying the structure. The open end 322 is sealed to the housing 100, and the water outlet hole 302 corresponds to the position of the water outlet 120 to achieve communication. The diameter of the open end 322 is larger than the diameter of the water outlet 120. The open end 322 surrounds the water outlet 120 and is connected to the housing 100. The water outlet hole 302 directly corresponds to and communicates with the water outlet 120 without the need for additional structures. Moreover, the end of the filter screen 310 abuts against the open end 322, ensuring accurate positioning. The housing 100 is provided with a groove for matching the open end 322. The open end 322 is inserted into the groove, which facilitates positioning, improves assembly speed, and helps to seal, improving water leakage prevention performance.

[0055] Reference Figure 3 According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, both the filter frame 320 and the housing 100 are plastic parts. The end face of the opening end 322 is ultrasonically welded to the housing 100 to achieve a sealed connection, resulting in a stable structure. Ultrasonic welding utilizes high-frequency vibration waves transmitted to the opening end 322 and the housing 100 to achieve high-frequency vibration with a certain amplitude. Due to the high acoustic impedance at the welding area, i.e., the interface between the opening end 322 and the housing 100, local high temperatures are generated. Because plastic has poor thermal conductivity, these temperatures cannot dissipate quickly and accumulate in the welding area, causing the contact surface between the opening end 322 and the housing 100 to melt rapidly. With the application of a certain pressure, the two fuse together, resulting in advantages such as high connection strength and good sealing performance. It is also low-cost, clean, and pollution-free, without damaging the opening end 322 and the housing 100. To improve sealing, the housing 100 is also provided with annular protrusions, and the end face of the opening end 322 is provided with grooves matching the protrusions. After ultrasonic welding, the connection between the opening end 322 and the housing 100 is tighter, resulting in better sealing performance.

[0056] It is understandable that the open end 322 and the housing 100 can also be connected by heat fusion or glue to achieve a sealed connection.

[0057] It is understandable that filter 310 can also be set on the inner side wall of filter frame 320, as shown in the reference. Figures 4 to 6 The filter includes a housing 100 and a filter assembly 300 disposed within the housing 100. The filter assembly 300 includes a filter screen 310 and a filter screen frame 320. The housing 100 has a filter chamber 101 for accommodating filter media. One end of the housing 100 is provided with an inlet 110 communicating with the filter chamber 101, and the other end is provided with an outlet 120 communicating with the filter chamber 101. It can be understood that the inlet 110 and the outlet 120 are arranged opposite to each other, and a straight water path is more conducive to water flow and meets the water volume requirements of the shower system. The filter screen frame 320 is disposed in the filter chamber 101, and the shape of the filter screen frame 320 is basically the same as that of the filter chamber 101. The filter media (not shown in the figure) is located in the filter chamber 101 and surrounds the filter screen frame 320, so that the filter media forms a layer of roughly uniform thickness, and the distribution of the filtration effect is more uniform. The filter media uses KDF filter media with reducing properties, which can effectively remove residual chlorine in the water. The filter screen frame 320 has an inner cavity 301. One end of the filter screen frame 320 is provided with a water outlet 302 communicating with the inner cavity 301. The water outlet 302 is connected to the water outlet 120. The peripheral surface of the filter screen frame 320 is provided with multiple water inlet holes 303. The filter screen 310 is located in the inner cavity 301 and covers the water inlet holes 303, thereby preventing filter media from entering the inner cavity 301. The filter screen frame 320 and the filter screen 310 can be independent components, or the filter screen frame 320 can be integrally formed with the filter screen 310. The filter screen 310 is made of metal, and the filter screen frame 320 can also be a support welded to the outside of the filter screen 310.

[0058] During use, water flows into the filter chamber 101 from the inlet 110, first contacting the filter media to remove residual chlorine. Then, water flows into the inner chamber 301 through the inlet 303 of the filter screen frame 320. Here, the filter screen 310 blocks the filter media to prevent it from being carried away by the water. The water then flows out through the outlet 302 of the filter screen frame 320 and the outlet 120 of the housing 100. Because the filter screen frame 320 has multiple inlet holes 303 on its circumference and the filter media surrounds the filter screen frame 320, water flows into the inner chamber 301 from all directions around the outer periphery of the filter screen frame 320. The contact area between the filter media and the filter screen 310 is large and the contact surface is three-dimensional, which effectively reduces the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310, improves the problem of reduced water flow caused by long filter usage time, and has a large flow area and smooth water flow, meeting the water demand of the shower system.

[0059] Reference Figure 6It is understandable that the function of the filter mesh frame 320 is to support the filter media and filter screen 310, so that the filter media maintains a stable layered structure and the filter screen 310 maintains a set shape. To ensure smooth water flow, the filter mesh frame 320 has a frame structure with multiple through-holes 303 formed on its outer peripheral surface. The mesh openings of the filter screen 310 are small, with one inlet hole 303 corresponding to multiple mesh openings of the filter screen 310. The filter mesh frame 320 is an injection molded part, and the inner cavity 301, outlet hole 302, and inlet hole 303 can be injection molded in one step, resulting in a simple manufacturing process and low cost. The filter mesh frame 320 can be cylindrical, spherical, or rugby ball-shaped, etc., to match the shape of the filter cavity 101. The filter mesh frame 320 and the filter screen 310 cooperate to form a three-dimensional filtration flow surface.

[0060] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that the inner cavity 301 is cylindrical, and the corresponding filter screen frame 320 is cylindrical. The filter screen 310 is attached to the wall of the inner cavity 301. Multiple water inlet holes 303 are distributed in multiple rings or spirals on the outer circumference of the filter screen frame 320. This regular distribution pattern facilitates smooth water flow and ensures stable flow. The distance between the filter screen frame 320 and the inner wall of the filter cavity 101 is equal in all directions, ensuring that the filter media thickness is basically consistent in all directions, resulting in similar filtration effects and good uniformity. This structure, combined with the shower system's piping, ensures smooth water flow and stable flow by matching the diameter of the shower system's piping. The length-to-diameter ratio of the filter screen frame 320 is 3.5 or higher. The area through which water flows through the filter screen 310 is large and cylindrical, which helps to reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310. Moreover, compared with the structure of setting the filter screen only at the outlet 120, the flow area is increased, which also helps to improve the problem of reduced water flow.

[0061] It is understandable that the filter screen 310 is made of metal and the filter screen frame 320 is an injection molded part. The filter screen 310 can be heat-fused to the wall of the inner cavity 301, and water will inevitably flow through the filter screen 310 to prevent the filter material from leaking out.

[0062] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that the filter screen 310 is cylindrical, which can better fit the wall of the cylindrical inner cavity 301. Moreover, the cylindrical filter screen 310 itself has high structural strength and mutual support in the circumference, making it more stable. The filter screen 310 extends to the outlet 120, that is, the two ends of the filter screen 310 abut against the filter screen frame 320 and the shell 100 respectively, which helps to position the filter screen 310 and prevent the filter screen 310 from moving around in the inner cavity 301.

[0063] Reference Figure 5The end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the water inlet 110 is a closed end 321. The closed end 321 is set relative to the water inlet 110 to divert the water flow to the four sides of the filter screen frame 320. On the one hand, it increases the contact time and area between the water flow and the filter media, thereby improving the effect of filtering residual chlorine. On the other hand, the water flows to the four sides of the filter screen frame 320, with a larger flow area, which helps to reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310.

[0064] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that the closed end 321 is provided with a water inlet filter section 323. The end of the closed inner cavity 301 of the water inlet filter section 323 facing the water inlet 110 helps to improve the structural strength and rigidity of the filter screen frame 320, maintain the shape stability of the filter screen 310, and ensure the filtration effect. The water inlet filter section 323 also helps to constrain the filter screen 310. A limiting groove can also be provided on the water inlet filter section 323. The end of the filter screen 310 is inserted into the limiting groove to prevent shaking and make it more stable.

[0065] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that the water inlet filter 323 is connected to the water inlet 110. Water flows in from the water inlet 110, passes through the water inlet filter 323, and then flows into the filter chamber 101. The water inlet filter 323 is equipped with a water inlet filter screen 340. The function of the water inlet filter screen 340 is to filter out particulate matter and impurities in the water. On the one hand, it prevents impurities from reacting with the filter media and affecting the dechlorination performance of the filter media. On the other hand, it prevents particulate matter from clogging the water inlet hole 303 and affecting the water flow.

[0066] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that the water inlet filter section 323 is provided with a water inlet chamber 3231 and multiple water passage holes 3232. The water inlet chamber 3231 is connected to the water inlet 110, and the water passage holes 3232 are connected to the water inlet chamber 3231 and the filter chamber 101. The water inlet filter screen 340 is cylindrical and fits against the wall of the water inlet chamber 322 to cover the multiple water passage holes 3232. The cylindrical shape of the water inlet filter screen 340 provides a large water passage area, increasing the water flow rate and meeting the needs of the shower system.

[0067] Reference Figure 5 In the above embodiment, the housing 100 is connected to a detachable end cap 200, the water inlet 110 is located in the middle of the end cap 200, and the water inlet filter 323 is connected to the side of the end cap 200 facing the filter chamber 101. The end cap 200 is also provided with a positioning ring 210 surrounding the water inlet filter 323. The positioning ring 210 defines the position of the water inlet filter 323, which facilitates assembly and positioning, prevents the water inlet filter 323 from shifting, and ensures that all water flowing into the filter chamber 101 is filtered by the water inlet filter screen 340.

[0068] Reference Figure 6It is understandable that the end of the filter screen frame 320 facing the outlet 120 is an open end 322 to form an outlet hole 302, simplifying the structure. The open end 322 is sealed to the housing 100, and the outlet hole 302 corresponds to the outlet 120 to achieve communication. The diameter of the open end 322 is larger than the diameter of the outlet 120. The open end 322 surrounds the outlet 120 and is connected to the housing 100. The outlet hole 302 directly corresponds to and communicates with the outlet 120 without the need for additional structures. The housing 100 is provided with a groove for the open end 322. The open end 322 is inserted into the groove, which facilitates positioning and improves assembly speed, and also helps to seal and improve the water leakage prevention performance.

[0069] Reference Figure 6 It is understandable that a sealing ring can be installed at the connection point to ensure a tight seal between the opening end 322 and the housing 100, thus preventing water leakage. Furthermore, since both the filter frame 320 and the housing 100 are plastic parts, the end face of the opening end 322 and the housing 100 can also be ultrasonically welded to achieve a sealed connection, resulting in a more robust structure. Ultrasonic welding utilizes high-frequency vibration waves transmitted to the opening end 322 and the housing 100, achieving high-frequency vibrations of a certain amplitude. Due to the high acoustic impedance at the welding area, i.e., the interface between the opening end 322 and the housing 100, localized high temperatures are generated. Because plastic has poor thermal conductivity, these temperatures cannot dissipate quickly and accumulate in the welding area, causing the contact surface between the opening end 322 and the housing 100 to melt rapidly. Under pressure, the two fuse together, resulting in advantages such as high connection strength and good sealing performance. It is also low-cost, clean, pollution-free, and does not damage the opening end 322 or the housing 100. To improve sealing, the housing 100 is also provided with annular protrusions, and the end face of the opening end 322 is provided with a groove matching the protrusions. After ultrasonic welding, the opening end 322 is more tightly connected to the housing 100, and the sealing performance is better.

[0070] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the outer wall of the housing 100 is connected to an outer shell 400. The outer shell 400 includes a detachably connected upper shell 410 and a lower shell 420 for easy disassembly and maintenance. The upper shell 410 is provided with a spiral groove 411, and the lower shell 420 is provided with a retaining strip (not shown in the figure) that screws into the spiral groove. The connection is achieved by the engagement of the retaining strip with the spiral groove 411. Furthermore, an elastic ring 430 is provided at the connection between the upper shell 410 and the lower shell 420. The elastic ring 430 pushes the upper shell 410 and the lower shell 420 to move towards each other, preventing the upper shell 410 and the lower shell 420 from loosening. The function of the outer shell 400 is to cooperate with the installation structure of the shower system, reduce the precision requirements of the housing 100, and reduce production costs. Understandably, the upper shell 410 and the lower shell 420 form an installation cavity for accommodating the housing 100. The upper shell 410 has a water inlet channel communicating with the water inlet 110, and the lower shell 420 has a water outlet channel communicating with the water outlet 120. A sealing ring is provided between the upper shell 410 and the housing 100, and a sealing ring is also provided between the lower shell 420 and the housing 100 to prevent water leakage.

[0071] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing 100 and the outer shell 400 are at least partially made of transparent material. Through the housing 100 and the outer shell 400, the state changes of the filter media and the water flow can be observed, realizing visual monitoring and making it convenient for users to understand the operating status of the filter in a timely manner.

[0072] According to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the housing 400 is connected to a water inlet rotating ball head 440, which is rotatably mounted on the water inlet channel of the upper half-shell 410. The water inlet channel has a sealing ring 412 surrounding the water inlet rotating ball head 440, and the water inlet rotating ball head 440 is provided with a threaded connector 441 for connecting to an external pipeline. Typically, the filter is connected to the shower head, and the rotatable water inlet rotating ball head 440 allows the shower head to be rotated for user convenience.

[0073] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a shower system includes a filter as described in the first aspect. The filter can effectively reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310, improve the problem of water flow decreasing with the duration of use, ensure sufficient water flow in the shower system, and enhance the user experience.

[0074] According to a third aspect embodiment of the present invention, a water heater includes a filter as described in the first aspect embodiment. The filter is installed in the water outlet pipe of the water heater and uses filter media to remove residual chlorine from the water, thereby eliminating the hazards of residual chlorine and improving safety. The filter adopts a three-dimensional filter assembly 300, which can effectively reduce the accumulation of filter media on the filter screen 310, improve the problem of water flow decreasing with the duration of use, ensure sufficient water flow from the water heater, and enhance the user experience.

[0075] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Within the scope of knowledge possessed by those skilled in the art, various changes can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

Claims

1. A filter, characterized in that, include; The housing has a filter chamber, with an inlet at one end and an outlet at the other end. A filter assembly is located within the filter chamber. The filter assembly has an inner cavity, and one end of the filter assembly is provided with a water outlet hole communicating with the inner cavity. The water outlet hole is connected to the water outlet. The peripheral surface of the filter assembly is provided with multiple water inlet holes. The filter assembly is provided with a filter screen covering the water inlet holes. The filter assembly includes a filter screen frame. The filter screen frame is cylindrical to form a water inlet channel on the outside of the filter screen frame. The end of the filter screen frame facing the water inlet is a closed end. The closed end is opposite to the water inlet. The inlet is configured to divert the water flow to the periphery of the filter screen frame. The closed end is provided with an inlet filtration section, which closes the end of the inner cavity facing the inlet. The inlet filtration section is provided with an inlet chamber and multiple water passage holes. The inlet chamber is connected to the inlet, and the water passage holes are connected to the inlet chamber and the filtration chamber. An inlet filter screen is provided in the inlet filtration section. The inlet filter screen is cylindrical and fits against the wall of the inlet chamber to cover the multiple water passage holes. The filter media is located inside the filter chamber. Water flows through the filter media and flows out through the inlet hole to the outlet hole.

2. A filter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The filter screen is disposed on the inner or outer side wall of the filter screen frame, and the filter screen is fitted onto the circumferential surface of the filter screen frame.

3. A filter according to claim 2, characterized in that, At least one sealing ring is provided between the filter screen and the filter screen frame, and the sealing ring is located at the top and / or bottom of the filter screen.

4. A filter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The end of the filter screen frame facing the water outlet is an open end to form the water outlet hole, and the open end is sealed to the housing.

5. A filter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing is connected to a detachable end cap, the water inlet is located on the end cap, and the water inlet filter is connected to the side of the end cap facing the filter chamber.

6. A filter according to claim 5, characterized in that, The end cap is provided with a positioning ring that is inserted into the filter chamber, and the positioning ring defines the position of the inlet filter screen.

7. A filter according to claim 6, characterized in that, A sealing gasket is connected to the outer periphery of the inlet filter screen, and the inlet filter screen is fixed inside the positioning ring by the sealing gasket.

8. A filter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall of the housing is connected to an outer shell, which includes a detachably connected upper shell and a lower shell.

9. A filter according to claim 8, characterized in that, The housing is at least partially made of a transparent material to allow observation of changes in the filter media.

10. A filter according to claim 8, characterized in that, The outer casing is connected to a water inlet rotating ball head, and the water inlet rotating ball head is provided with a threaded connector.

11. A shower system, characterized in that, It includes a filter as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A water heater, characterized in that, It includes a filter as described in any one of claims 1 to 10.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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    CN107902724A

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    CN2768869Y