Filter cartridge, filter assembly and method of installing and removing a filter cartridge

Abstract

A filter cartridge for use in a water purification system includes a filter cartridge housing, a locking protrusion, and a handle; the filter cartridge housing includes a first end having an inlet and an outlet, and a second end opposite the first end. The locking protrusion is provided on the filter cartridge housing and is proximate to the second end. The handle is provided on the second end. The handle includes an outer side surface distal from the first end. The filter cartridge is installed in the water purification system. The outer side surface of the handle displaces the second end of the filter cartridge housing in a radial direction to engage the locking protrusion with a locking structure in the water purification system. A filter assembly and a method of installing and removing the filter cartridge are also provided. The filter cartridge provided by the present invention has a self-alignment function, so that the user can simply install and remove the filter cartridge.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of water treatment, and in particular, to a filter cartridge, a filter assembly, a method of installing a filter cartridge, and a method of removing a filter cartridge. BACKGROUND

[0002] Water filter cartridges are used in the art to reduce the circulation of solid particles and debris in water in refrigeration equipment, water dispensers, and the like. The water filter cartridges are typically placed in a water dispenser circulation system in which a liquid permeable filter medium is provided. By providing the water filter cartridge, during operation of the water dispenser circulation system, water flows through the filter medium and is pumped out of the water dispenser, while impurities in the water are trapped on the filter medium for later removal.

[0003] Due to the high demand, many new refrigerators and water treatment units have been designed to produce filtered water through a water dispenser function. Water from a water line can flow through a filter cartridge before being dispensed. Although filter cartridges are widely used, the filter cartridges have a limited life and need to be replaced periodically.

[0004] Several different designs of removable filter cartridges have been developed in the art, most of which include steps of opening a filter chamber cover, removing and replacing the filter cartridge, and closing the filter chamber cover. As is known, the filter chamber covers have different configurations. Various covers can include buttons, hinge clasps, screws, or other fasteners. The replacement of the filter cartridges in the art is typically performed by a skilled technician, and it is difficult for a user to simply install and remove the filter cartridges. SUMMARY

[0005] In view of the fact that the replacement of the filter cartridges in the art is typically performed by a skilled technician, and it is difficult for a user to simply install and remove the filter cartridges, a first aspect of the present invention provides a filter cartridge.

[0006] In some embodiments of the present invention, the filter cartridge is for use in a water purification system, the filter cartridge comprising a filter cartridge housing, a locking protrusion, and a handle. The filter cartridge housing comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the first end being provided with an inlet and an outlet. The locking protrusion is provided on the filter cartridge housing proximate to the second end of the filter cartridge housing, and the handle is provided on the second end of the filter cartridge housing. The handle comprises an outer side surface distal from the first end of the filter cartridge housing. When the filter cartridge is installed in the water purification system, the outer side surface of the handle radially displaces the second end of the filter cartridge housing, thereby causing the locking protrusion to engage with a locking structure in the water purification system.

[0007] In some embodiments of the present invention, the handle has an inclined outer side surface.

[0008] In some embodiments of the present invention, the outer side surface of the handle is a beveled surface or an arcuate surface.

[0009] In some embodiments of the present invention, the locking protrusion comprises a beveled surface or an arcuate surface.

[0010] In some embodiments of the present application, the handle is provided with an opening.

[0011] In some embodiments of the present application, a guide protrusion is provided on the other side of the filter cartridge housing opposite to the locking protrusion.

[0012] In some embodiments of the present application, the surface of the guide protrusion close to the first end is a beveled surface or an arc surface, and the surface close to the second end is a sheared surface.

[0013] The second aspect of the present application provides a filter assembly, which comprises a filter chamber, a filter cartridge provided by any of the preceding embodiments, a locking structure provided in the filter chamber, and a filter chamber cover. The filter chamber comprises a filter chamber opening at a first end of the filter chamber and a water system interface at a second end of the filter chamber. The water system interface is in fluid communication with a water flow path. The locking structure is configured to engage with the locking protrusion on the filter cartridge extending into the filter chamber. The filter chamber cover is configured to cover the opening of the filter chamber, and the filter chamber cover comprises a guide structure provided on the inner surface of the filter chamber cover. When the filter cartridge is installed in the filter chamber, the locking protrusion on the filter cartridge housing is aligned with the locking structure in the filter chamber. After the filter cartridge encounters a certain resistance during installation, the filter chamber cover is closed, and the guide structure of the filter chamber cover abuts against the handle. When the filter chamber cover is continuously closed, the guide structure causes the second end of the filter cartridge to be displaced radially, so that the locking protrusion engages with the locking structure.

[0014] In some optional embodiments of the present application, the guide structure is convex.

[0015] In some optional embodiments of the present application, the guide structure comprises a smooth curved surface.

[0016] In some optional embodiments of the present application, the handle has an inclined outer side surface.

[0017] In some optional embodiments of the present application, the outer side surface of the handle is a beveled surface or an arc surface.

[0018] In some optional embodiments of the present application, a guide protrusion is provided on the other side of the filter cartridge housing opposite to the locking protrusion, and a guide rail is provided on the side of the filter chamber opposite to the locking structure. When the filter cartridge is installed in the filter chamber, the guide protrusion on the filter cartridge housing moves along the guide rail in the filter chamber in the axial direction.

[0019] The third aspect of the present application provides a method for installing a filter cartridge in a water purification device, which comprises: opening a filter chamber cover; installing the filter cartridge into the filter chamber so that the locking protrusion provided on the filter cartridge housing is aligned with the locking structure provided in the filter chamber; and closing the filter chamber cover, so that the guide structure of the filter chamber cover contacts the handle of the filter cartridge, causing the second end of the filter cartridge to be displaced radially until the locking protrusion engages with the locking structure.

[0020] In some embodiments of the present application, the guide structure is convex.

[0021] In some embodiments of the present application, the guide structure comprises a smooth curved surface.

[0022] In some embodiments of the present application, the handle has an inclined outer surface.

[0023] In some embodiments of the present application, the outer surface of the handle is beveled or curved. In some embodiments of the present application, when the filter chamber cover is closed, the outer surface of the handle slides along the guide structure, thereby causing the filter cartridge to move radially within the filter chamber.

[0024] In some embodiments of the present application, the filter chamber comprises a water system interface provided at one end, and the filter cartridge comprises a water inlet and a water outlet provided at an end opposite to the handle of the filter cartridge; and the step of loading the filter cartridge into the filter chamber comprises coupling the water inlet and the water outlet to the water system interface of the filter chamber.

[0025] A fourth aspect of the present application provides a method for removing a filter cartridge from a water purifying device, comprising the steps of: opening a filter chamber cover to open an opening of a filter chamber; and pulling a handle of the filter cartridge to remove the filter cartridge from the filter chamber through the opening. The opening of the filter chamber cover effectively causes the filter cartridge within the filter chamber to move radially and disengage a locking protrusion on the filter cartridge from a locking structure within the filter chamber.

[0026] In some embodiments of the present application, the filter chamber cover is hinged to an axial end of the filter chamber.

[0027] In some embodiments of the present application, the filter chamber cover is connected to a lever, and the lever comprises a tooth structure that can push the filter cartridge radially when the filter chamber cover is opened.

[0028] In some embodiments of the present application, the guide structure is convex and protrudes outwardly from an inner surface of the filter chamber cover.

[0029] Compared with the prior art, the present application has the advantages and positive effects that: the filter cartridge provided by the present application comprises a handle that slides along a protrusion provided on an inner surface of a filter chamber cover to cause the filter cartridge to move within the filter chamber. The movement of the filter cartridge within the filter chamber causes a locking structure within the filter chamber to engage a locking protrusion on the filter cartridge, and the handle to fix the filter cartridge within the filter chamber, thereby having a self-alignment function and allowing a user to easily install and disassemble. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] In order to make the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application clearer, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed in the embodiments. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present application, and other drawings can be obtained by those skilled in the art without any creative effort based on these drawings.

[0031] Figure 1 A perspective view of the filter cartridge from a front-right-top view according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0032] Figure 2 A perspective view of the filter cartridge from a rear-left-bottom view according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0033] Figure 3 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a closed state according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0034] Figure 4 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a partially opened state according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0035] Figure 5 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a fully opened state according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0036] Figure 6 A partial enlarged view of position A in FIG. 1. Figure 3

[0037] Figure 7 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a closed state according to some other embodiments of the present application.

[0038] Figure 8 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a partially opened state according to some other embodiments of the present application.

[0039] Figure 9 An internal structure diagram of the filter chamber with the filter cartridge installed therein in a fully opened state according to some other embodiments of the present application.

[0040] Figure 10 A partial structure diagram of the filter chamber in the filter assembly according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0041] Figure 11 A flow chart of the method for installing the filter cartridge according to some embodiments of the present application.

[0042] ​Figure 12 A flowchart of a method of installing a filter cartridge is provided for some embodiments of the present application. Embodiments

[0043] The following detailed description is merely illustrative and is not limiting on the application and / or the use of embodiments. Further, there is no intention that the application be limited to the specifics of the examples in the background or summary or the details of the detailed description.

[0044] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0045] Unless otherwise indicated, any elements, attributes, features or combinations thereof in the disclosure can be used in any of the disclosed embodiments, whether explicitly stated or not. It will be readily appreciated that features described in relation to any one aspect of the present description can be applicable to other aspects, where compatible. In particular, features described in relation to methods can be applicable to filtration products and vice versa.

[0046] One or more embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which similar reference numerals are used throughout the various drawings and refer to similar elements. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of one or more embodiments. It can be evident, however, that such embodiment(s) can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and functions are not described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the certain aspects.

[0047] As used throughout this description, references to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearances of the phrase “in one aspect” or “in one embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0048] The words "example" and / or "exemplary" are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as "example" and / or "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent example structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms "including", "contains", "having", and other similar words are used in the detailed description or claims, these terms are always meant to be as inclusive in a way that the words "comprising" are as an open transition term without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0049] The present disclosure relates to water filter cartridges, and more particularly to water filter cartridges for use in water purification systems that have a self-alignment feature to allow a user to easily install and remove the filter cartridge. In various embodiments described herein, the filter cartridge includes a handle that slides along a protrusion provided on the inner surface of a filter chamber cover to displace the filter cartridge within the filter chamber. Displacement of the filter cartridge within the filter chamber causes a locking structure within the filter chamber to engage a locking protrusion on the filter cartridge, in combination with the handle, to secure the filter cartridge within the filter chamber. These and other features will be described in connection with various embodiments herein. The water purification system can be integrated into a refrigerator.

[0050] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A filter cartridge 100 is shown that is provided in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure. The filter cartridge 100 includes a filter cartridge housing 102 and a handle 104. The filter cartridge housing 102 is generally cylindrical in shape, having a first end 106 and a second end 112; wherein the second end 112 is generally opposite the first end 106 and separated from the first end 106 by a length of the filter cartridge housing 102. The filter cartridge housing 102 forms an outer perimeter of the filter cartridge 100, and the filter cartridge housing 102 encloses a filter medium (see Figures 3-5 ) that is configured to remove particulates and other contaminants from water passing through the filter cartridge.

[0051] The first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102 includes an inlet 108 and an outlet 110. The inlet 108 and the outlet 110 are configured to allow water to enter and exit the filter cartridge housing 102, as will be described in greater detail below. The handle 104 is provided at the second end 112 of the filter cartridge housing 102; the handle 104 can be grasped by a user to twist, pull, or push the filter cartridge housing 102 when replacing the filter cartridge.

[0052] In some embodiments of the present application, the filter cartridge housing 102 can be made of a variety of different water-resistant materials, including but not limited to polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). These materials are inexpensive and readily available, and can be easily processed using injection molding techniques. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the filter cartridge housing 102 is integrally formed; that is, the filter cartridge housing 102 can be effectively and efficiently manufactured through an injection molding process. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the handle 104 can be separately formed through a molding or machining operation, and then joined to the filter cartridge housing 102. For example, the handle 104 can be adhered, welded, or mechanically coupled to the second end 112 of the filter cartridge housing 102.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the handle 104 is provided with an opening sized to receive a human hand. In various embodiments, the handle 104 has an inclined outer side. The outer side 114 of the handle is oriented away from the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102. As will be described in greater detail below, the outer side of the handle 104 can be configured to contact a guide structure within a water filter chamber of a refrigerator to cause radial displacement of the filter cartridge 100 within the water filter chamber. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the outer side of the handle is beveled or curved. Figure 1 Figure 2 As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the handle 104 is provided with an opening sized to receive a human hand. In various embodiments, the handle 104 has an inclined outer side. The outer side 114 of the handle is oriented away from the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102. As will be described in greater detail below, the outer side of the handle 104 can be configured to contact a guide structure within a water filter chamber of a refrigerator to cause radial displacement of the filter cartridge 100 within the water filter chamber. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the outer side of the handle is beveled or curved.

[0054] The filter cartridge housing 102 is provided with a locking protrusion 202 proximate or adjacent to the second end 112 of the filter cartridge housing 102. The locking protrusion 202 includes at least one raised surface, which in some alternative embodiments of the present application can be beveled (as shown in the figures); in other alternative embodiments of the present application, the raised surface can be curved; and in yet other alternative embodiments of the present application, the raised surface can be other shapes, depending on the particular embodiment. Although a single locking protrusion 202 is depicted in the figures, it is contemplated that in some alternative embodiments of the present application, a plurality of locking protrusions 202 can be provided on the filter cartridge housing 102. When a plurality of locking protrusions 202 are provided, each locking protrusion can be identical to the other locking protrusions, or one locking protrusion can be different from one or more of the other locking protrusions. As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the locking protrusion 202 is sawtooth-shaped, having a shearing edge 2021 and an inclined edge 2022; wherein the inclined edge 2022 allows the filter cartridge 100 to abut a complementary shaped surface, and the shearing edge 2021 locks the filter cartridge 100 in a water filter chamber of a refrigerator. Figure 1 Figure 6 As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, the handle 104 is provided with an opening sized to receive a human hand. In various embodiments, the handle 104 has an inclined outer side. The outer side 114 of the handle is oriented away from the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102. As will be described in greater detail below, the outer side of the handle 104 can be configured to contact a guide structure within a water filter chamber of a refrigerator to cause radial displacement of the filter cartridge 100 within the water filter chamber. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the outer side of the handle is beveled or curved.

[0055] ​​In some alternative embodiments of the present application, a guide protrusion 116 is provided on the filter cartridge housing 102, proximate or adjacent to the second end 112 of the filter cartridge housing 102; the guide protrusion 116 is located on the opposite side of the filter cartridge housing 102 from the locking protrusion 202, such that the guide protrusion 116 and the locking protrusion 202 are approximately centrally symmetrical about the axis of the filter cartridge housing 102. In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the guide protrusion 116 is sawtooth-shaped, with a bevelled surface proximate the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102 and a sheared surface proximate the second end 112, as shown in FIG. 13. Figure 2 In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the guide protrusion 116 is sawtooth-shaped, with a bevelled surface proximate the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102 and a sheared surface proximate the second end 112, as shown in FIG. 13. Figure 2 In some alternative embodiments of the present application, the guide protrusion 116 is sawtooth-shaped, with a bevelled surface proximate the first end 106 of the filter cartridge housing 102 and a sheared surface proximate the second end 112, as shown in FIG. 13.

[0056] When the filter cartridge 100 is to be removed and replaced, the water purification device is turned off, the cover of the filter chamber is opened, and the filter cartridge 100 is accessible. The user can then remove the filter cartridge 100 from the filter chamber by grasping the handle 104 and pulling the filter cartridge 100 from the cavity. The impurities filtered by the filter cartridge 100 during use will remain in the filter cartridge housing 102.

[0057] In some embodiments of the present application, a filter assembly is provided, the filter assembly comprising a filter chamber 300. Figure 3 、 4 FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 show the filter chamber 300 with the filter cartridge 100 installed therein; Figure 10A water filter chamber 300 without an internal filter element 100 is shown. The water filter chamber 300 can be housed within the outer casing of a refrigerator (not shown). For example, in the prior art, the water filter chamber 300 can be located in a top corner of the refrigerator, near the center of the refrigerator, or on the refrigerator door. In various embodiments, the water filter chamber 300 is positioned within the refrigerator casing in a location that does not obstruct other functions, allowing for maximum utilization of the space within the refrigerator and making the water filter chamber 300 easy to operate. In some alternative embodiments of this application, the water filter chamber 300 can be located outside the refrigerator or accessible from the outside of the refrigerator. Furthermore, it is conceivable that in some embodiments, the water filter chamber 300 can be located within a water purification system or within a water purification system that does not include a refrigerator.

[0058] The water filter chamber 300 contains a filter cavity 308 configured to house the filter element 100. The water filter chamber 300 includes a filter chamber opening located at a first end 313, through which the filter element 100 can be inserted into the filter cavity 308. A second end 315 of the water filter chamber 300 includes a water system interface 316, which is in fluid communication with the water flow path of a water purification system (not shown). Therefore, when the filter element 100 is fully inserted into the water filter chamber 300, the inlet 108 and outlet 110 of the filter element 100 are coupled to the water flow path of the water purification system through the water system interface 316, allowing water to pass through the filter element 100 for purification.

[0059] like Figures 3-5 As shown, the filter chamber 300 further includes a filter chamber cover 302 that covers the filter chamber opening of the filter chamber 300, allowing access to the filter chamber 308 when needed. The filter chamber cover 302 is hinged to the filter chamber 300 at its axial end, allowing the filter chamber cover 302 to rotate relative to the filter chamber 300 to open the filter chamber opening and allow the filter element to extend into the filter chamber 308. Figures 3-5 In this embodiment, the filter chamber cover 302 is exemplarily hinged to the top of the filter chamber 300, but it is readily apparent that the hinge may be provided along one side of the filter chamber 300 or at the bottom of the filter chamber 300. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a retaining ring, pin, or other fixing mechanism (not shown) may be provided to secure the filter chamber cover 302 so that the filter chamber 300 is in a closed state.

[0060] In some optional embodiments of this application, the filter chamber cover 302 includes an inner surface 312 located near the filter chamber 300, and an outer surface 314 separated from the filter chamber 300 by the inner surface 312. When the filter chamber cover 302 is in a closed state (e.g....), Figure 3As shown), the outer surface 314 is exposed to the refrigerator or environment. The inner surface 312 of the filter chamber cover 302 includes a guide structure 304 that guides the filter element 100 into the filter chamber 300.

[0061] In particular, such as Figure 3 As shown, the guide structure 304 is configured to contact the outer side of the handle 104. The guide structure 304 is generally convex, projecting outward from the inner surface 312 of the filter chamber cover 302. In some alternative embodiments of this application, for example... Figures 3-5 In the illustrated embodiment, the guide structure 304 is a smooth curved surface. In other alternative embodiments of this application, the guide structure 304 may also be a chamfered surface, a surface with a set angle, or a plane protruding from the inner surface 312 of the filter chamber cover 302. Regardless of the specific shape of the guide structure 304, it is configured to displace the filter element 100 within the filter chamber 300, particularly the second end 112 of the filter element 100, upon contact with the outer side of the handle 104. More specifically, in various embodiments, the guide structure 304 abuts against the outer side of the handle 104, which slides along the guide structure 304, thereby displacing the handle 104 and the associated filter element 100 radially, such that the locking protrusion 202, for example, the shear edge 2021 of the locking protrusion 202, engages with a corresponding locking structure 306 within the filter chamber 300.

[0062] A locking structure 306 is disposed on the inner wall of the filter chamber 300. In some alternative embodiments of this application, the locking structure 306 is disposed near the opening of the filter chamber. The locking structure 306 is configured to engage with the locking protrusion 202 on the filter element 100, thereby securing the filter element 100 within the filter chamber 300. To ensure compatibility between the filter element 100 and the filter chamber 300 and / or to provide a dedicated configuration for a selected model or brand, the circumferential position of the locking protrusion 202 on the filter element housing 102 is determined based on the position of the locking structure 306 within the filter chamber 300.

[0063] Furthermore, the filter chamber cover 302 is connected to the lever 310, which has a toothed structure 311. When the filter chamber cover 302 is opened, the lever 310 can rotate or pivot. The movement of the lever 310 causes the toothed structure 311 to push the filter element 100 radially when the filter chamber cover is opened, thereby disengaging the filter element 100 from the locking structure 306.

[0064] Figures 3-5 The procedure for opening the filter chamber cover 302 to replace the filter element 100 is shown. Figure 3In the process, the filter chamber 300 is in the closed state, and the filter chamber cover 302 closes the filter chamber 300. The filter element 100 is installed inside the filter chamber 300, and the inlet 108 and outlet 110 of the filter element 100 are coupled and connected to the water purification system through the water system interface 316 of the filter chamber 300. The locking structure 306 engages with the locking protrusion 202, and the guide structure 304 is close to the outer side of the handle 104, supporting the second end 112 of the filter element 100 inside the filter chamber 300.

[0065] To remove the filter element 100, the user rotates the filter chamber cover 302 upwards and outwards relative to the filter chamber 300 to open the filter chamber cover 302. Figure 4 In the middle, the filter chamber 300 is in a partially open state, that is, when the filter chamber cover 302 is partially open. The action of opening the filter chamber cover 302 causes the lever 310 located near the locking structure 306 to rotate, which in turn causes the toothed structure 311 on the lever 310 to push the filter element. Specifically, the toothed structure 311 on the lever 310 pushes the locking protrusion 202 on the filter element housing, for example, pushing the inclined edge 2022 of the locking protrusion 202, thereby causing the second end 112 of the filter element 102 to move along... Figure 4 Arrow D points downwards away from locking structure 306, thereby separating filter element 100 from locking structure 306. Filter element 100 then separates from the upper wall of the water filtration chamber 300, allowing filter element 100 to be easily removed from the water filtration chamber 300.

[0066] Figure 5 The image shows the filter chamber cover 302 in a fully open position. Specifically, with the filter chamber cover 302 fully open, the opening of the filter chamber 300 is unobstructed. (As shown...) Figure 5 As shown, filter element 100 is located relative to its position in Figure 3 The position of the filter element 100 is radially lower. The locking structure 306 has disengaged from the locking protrusion 202 on the filter element housing 102, and there is no obstruction to axially removing the filter element 100 from the filter chamber 300. The user can easily remove the filter element 100 from the filter chamber 300 using the handle 104. The user can grasp the filter element 100 using the handle 104 and pull it axially out of the filter chamber 300, as shown below. Figure 5 As indicated by arrow R.

[0067] To insert the filter element 100 into the water filter chamber 300, the user positions the filter element 100, which has the locking protrusion 202, aligned with the locking structure 306 inside the water filter chamber 300, with the inlet 108 and outlet 110 facing the water filter chamber 300, and inserts the filter element 100 into the water filter chamber 300 in this direction. The user pushes the handle 104 towards the water filter chamber 300 (direction opposite to...). Figure 5(Opposite to arrow R in the diagram), place the filter cartridge 100 inside the filter chamber 300. Then, the user closes the filter chamber cover 302 by rotating it downwards and toward the filter chamber 300. The guide structure 304 abuts against the outer side of the handle 104, and the handle 104 slides upwards along the guide structure 304 (as opposed to arrow R in the diagram). Figure 4 (The direction of the middle arrow D is opposite), thereby causing the filter element 100 to move radially upward. When the filter element 100 moves upward within the water filtration chamber 300, the locking protrusion 202 slides over and engages with the locking structure 306. With the water filtration chamber cover 302 closed, the guide structure 304 radially secures the handle 104 in place, while the locking structure 306 axially secures the filter element 100 in place via the locking protrusion 202.

[0068] In some alternative embodiments of this application, the inner wall of the filter chamber 300 is further provided with guide rails 320 extending axially. The guide rails 320 are disposed on the side of the filter chamber 300 opposite to the locking structure 202, such as... Figures 7 to 9 As shown, the guide rail 320 protrudes radially from the inner wall of the filter chamber 300; when the filter element 100 is installed in the filter chamber 300, the highest point of the protrusion of the guide rail 320 contacts the outer wall of the filter element 100; during the axial movement of the filter element 100 within the filter chamber 300, the guide rail 320 and the inner wall of the filter chamber 300 provide radial restraint for the filter element. In some optional embodiments of this application, to prevent the guide rail 320 from obstructing the axial movement of the filter element 100 within the filter chamber 300, the guide rail 320 is configured as an elastic plate that is higher in the middle and lower on both sides, and the side near the opening of the filter chamber 300 is a slope; in some optional embodiments of this application, the guide rail 320 is positioned further inward than the locking structure 306, approximately in the front of the middle of the filter cavity 308. The guide rail 320 is configured to cooperate with the guide protrusion 116 on the filter element 100, thereby guiding the filter element 100 into or out of the filter chamber 300. To ensure compatibility between the filter element 100 and the water filter chamber 300, and / or to provide a dedicated configuration for the selected model or brand, the guide rail 320 is positioned circumferentially on the inner wall of the filter chamber 308 to match the position of the guide protrusion 116. In some optional embodiments of this application, the guide protrusion 116 on the filter element housing 102 moves axially along the guide rail 320 within the water filter chamber 300. In other optional embodiments of this application, two opposing guide protrusions 116 can, together with the filter element housing 102, form a guide groove that matches the guide rail 320, cooperating with the shape-matching guide rail to guide the filter element 100 into or out of the refrigerator water filter chamber 300.

[0069] refer to Figure 11 The diagram 400 illustrates an example method for installing a filter element. The filter element installation method includes the following steps.

[0070] Step 402, the filter chamber cover 302 of the filter chamber 300 is opened.

[0071] Step 404, the filter cartridge 100 is loaded into the filter chamber 300.

[0072] Step 406, the filter chamber cover 302 of the filter chamber 300 is closed, so that the guide structure 304 on the filter chamber cover 302 is in contact with the handle 104 of the filter cartridge 100, and then the filter cartridge 100 is radially displaced until the filter cartridge 100 is pushed into place, while the locking structure 306 engages with the locking protrusion 202 on the filter cartridge 100, for example, the shear edge 2021 of the locking protrusion 202.

[0073] Reference Figure 12 is shown a flowchart 500 illustrating an example method of disassembling the filter cartridge. The disassembly method of the filter cartridge comprises the following steps.

[0074] Step 502, the filter chamber cover 302 of the filter chamber 300 is opened, and the filter cartridge 100 in the filter chamber 300 is radially displaced, so that the locking protrusion 202 on the filter cartridge 100 is disengaged from the locking structure 306 in the filter chamber, for example, the shear edge 2021 of the locking protrusion 202 is disengaged from the locking structure 306 in the filter chamber.

[0075] Step 504, the filter cartridge 100 is pulled out of the filter chamber 300.

[0076] The above description includes non-limiting examples of various embodiments. Of course, in order to describe the disclosed subject matter the combination of each possible component or method cannot be described and a person of skill in the art can realize further combinations and permutations of various embodiments. The disclosed subject matter is intended to include all such alterations and modifications to the ideas and concepts disclosed herein, within the scope and idea of the attached claims.

[0077] As to the various functions performed by the components described above, unless otherwise specified, the terms used to describe such components, including references to "means" are intended to also encompass any structure (e.g., functional equivalent) that can perform the specified function of the component, even if not structurally equivalent to the disclosed structure. Moreover, in addition, while a certain particular feature of the disclosed subject matter can have been disclosed just with reference to one of the several embodiments, such feature can be combined with one or more other features of other embodiments to meet the needs of any given or particular application and make it advantageous.

[0078] The terms "exemplary" and / or "demonstrative" are used herein as examples, instances, or illustrations. Unless otherwise expressed, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to the examples, instances, or illustrations. Furthermore, any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" and / or "demonstrative" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude same from being claimed as such. Furthermore, the use of the terms "including," "containing," "comprising," and other similar words, in the specification and claims, is intended to be inclusive, as similar to the use of the term "comprising," and not to be limiting.

[0079] The description of illustrative embodiments of the subject matter provided herein, including in the Abstract, is not meant to be exhaustive or to be limiting in any way to the precise embodiments disclosed. While specific embodiments and examples are described herein for illustrative purposes, various modifications are possible so as to fall within the scope of the embodiments as described. In this regard, while the subject matter has been described in connection with various embodiments and corresponding figures, it is to be understood that other similar embodiments can be used or modifications and additions can be made to the described embodiments for performing the same, similar, alternative, or substitute function of the disclosed subject matter without deviating from the scope of the disclosed subject matter. Therefore, the disclosed subject matter should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims

1. A filter cartridge for use in a water purification system, the water purification system comprising a filter housing for mounting the filter cartridge, the filter housing comprising a filter housing cover, an inner surface of the filter housing cover being provided with a guide structure; the filter cartridge comprising: a filter cartridge housing, the filter cartridge housing comprising: a first end, the first end comprising a water inlet and a water outlet; and a second end, the second end being opposite to the first end; a locking protrusion, the locking protrusion being provided on the filter cartridge housing and being proximate to the second end; and a handle, the handle being provided on the second end of the filter cartridge housing, the handle comprising an outer side surface distal to the first end of the filter cartridge housing; wherein the filter cartridge is mounted in the water purification system; the outer side surface of the handle is configured to contact the guide structure on the inner surface of the filter housing cover when the filter cartridge is mounted in the filter housing, causing the second end of the filter cartridge housing to be displaced radially so that the locking protrusion engages with a locking structure in the water purification system.

2. The filter cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The handle has an inclined outer side surface.

3. The filter cartridge of claim 1 wherein, The outer side surface of the handle is beveled or curved.

4. The filter cartridge of claim 1 wherein, The handle is provided with an opening.

5. The filter cartridge of claim 1 wherein, The locking protrusion comprises a beveled surface or a curved surface.

6. The filter cartridge of claim 1, wherein, The other side of the filter cartridge housing opposite to the locking protrusion is provided with a guide protrusion.

7. The filter cartridge of claim 6, wherein, The surface of the guide protrusion proximate to the first end is beveled or curved, and the surface proximate to the second end is sheared.

8. A filter assembly comprising: a filter housing, the filter housing comprising a filter housing opening at a first end of the filter housing and a water system interface at a second end of the filter housing, wherein the water system interface is in communication with a water flow path; wherein the filter assembly further comprises: the filter cartridge of any one of claims 1 to 7; a locking structure provided in the filter housing, the locking structure being configured to engage with the locking protrusion on the filter cartridge extending into the filter housing; and a filter housing cover configured to cover the filter housing opening, the filter housing cover comprising a guide structure provided on an inner surface thereof; the filter housing cover being hingedly connected to the filter housing at an axial end of the filter housing such that the filter housing cover is rotatable relative to the filter housing to open the filter housing opening and allow the filter cartridge to extend into the filter chamber; wherein the filter cartridge is mounted in the filter housing, the locking protrusion on the filter cartridge housing is aligned with the locking structure in the filter housing, the guide structure on the filter housing cover abuts the handle of the filter cartridge, causing the second end of the filter cartridge to be displaced radially, and the locking protrusion engages with the locking structure.

9. The filter assembly of claim 8, wherein, The guide structure is convex.

10. The filter assembly of claim 9, wherein, The guide structure comprises a smooth curved surface.

11. The filter assembly of claim 8, wherein, The side of the filter housing opposite to the locking structure is provided with a guide rail; the filter cartridge is mounted in the filter housing, the guide protrusion on the filter cartridge housing moves axially along the guide rail in the filter housing.

12. A method of installing a filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 in a water purification apparatus, characterised in that, comprising the steps of: opening the filter housing cover of the filter housing; mounting the filter cartridge into the filter housing such that the locking protrusion provided on the filter cartridge housing is aligned with the locking structure provided in the filter housing; closing the filter housing cover, the guide structure on the inner surface of the filter housing cover contacts the outer side surface of the handle on the filter cartridge, causing the filter cartridge to be displaced radially until the locking protrusion engages with the locking structure.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, The guide structure is convex.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The guide structure comprises a smooth curved surface.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein, When the filter chamber cover is closed, the outer side of the handle slides along the guide structure, causing the filter cartridge inside the filter chamber to be displaced radially.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein, The filter chamber comprises a water system interface at one end, and the filter cartridge is fitted into the filter chamber by connecting the water inlet and outlet to the water system interface of the filter chamber.

17. A method of removing a filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 from a water purification apparatus, characterised in that, The method comprises the following steps: opening the filter chamber cover to open an opening of the filter chamber; and pulling the handle of the filter cartridge to extract the filter cartridge from the filter chamber through the opening; wherein opening the filter chamber cover causes the filter cartridge inside the filter chamber to be displaced radially and the locking protrusion on the filter cartridge to be disengaged from the locking structure inside the filter chamber.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The filter chamber cover is hinged to the axial end of the filter chamber.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein, The filter chamber cover is connected to a lever, and the lever comprises a tooth structure configured to push the filter cartridge in a radial direction when the filter chamber cover is opened.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The guide structure is convex and protrudes outward from the inner surface of the filter chamber cover.

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