Electronic filter switch

Abstract

A water diverter device for use with a faucet includes an electrically operable valve assembly and a control module for controlling flow of cold water to a water filter.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 353,739, filed on June 20, 2022, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] Background and Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates generally to a water diverter device and, more particularly, to an electronic filter switch for selectively delivering filtered water to a faucet.

[0005] It is known to provide various under sink filtration devices that utilize a dedicated drinking water faucet. Such a dedicated faucet may not be desirable in addition to a conventional kitchen faucet because it adds visual clutter and / or requires cutting additional holes in the mounting deck (e.g., countertop). Thus, many users desire their conventional kitchen faucet to be a filtered water source. However, such a design may include certain limitations. First, the high flow rate of a typical kitchen faucet requires a very large filter for high quality filtration. Additionally, the large amount of water used by a standard kitchen faucet may require frequent filter changes.

[0006] Thus, there is a need for a device that can allow a user to select between filtered and unfiltered water at the main kitchen faucet or primary kitchen faucet. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide a device that prevents unfiltered hot water from accidentally mixing with filtered cold water if the user forgets that the faucet handle is in the mixed water position when attempting to dispense filtered water. Generally speaking, drinking water filters are ineffective with hot water, are damaged by hot water, and / or release stored toxins when hot water flows through them, and therefore, under sink water filters are typically installed on the cold water supply line.

[0007] According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a water splitter device includes: an electrically operable valve assembly, the electrically operable valve assembly being in fluid communication with a cold water source and a hot water source; a control module, the control module being electrically coupled to the electrically operable valve assembly; and a filtering system, the filtering system being in fluid communication with the electrically operable valve assembly. A user interface is electrically coupled to the control module. An unfiltered cold water path is defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the cold water source to the water outlet. A filtered cold water path is defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the cold water source to the water outlet. An unfiltered hot water path is defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the hot water source to the water outlet. A normal position of the valve assembly allows cold water and hot water to flow through the unfiltered cold water path and the unfiltered hot water path to the water outlet. The control module utilizes input from the user interface to change the position of the valve assembly to a filtering position, thereby stopping the flow of cold water and hot water through the unfiltered cold water path and the unfiltered hot water path, and only allowing filtered cold water to flow through the filtered cold water path to the water outlet.

[0008] According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a water diverter device includes: an electrically operable valve assembly having a cold water inlet in fluid communication with a cold water source, a hot water inlet in fluid communication with a hot water source, and a filtered water inlet; and a filtration system in fluid communication with the filtered water inlet of the electrically operable valve assembly. The electrically operable valve assembly includes a first mode and a second mode, in which the cold water inlet and the hot water inlet are in fluid communication with a water outlet, and in which the filtered water inlet is in fluid communication with the water outlet.

[0009] According to yet another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a water splitter device includes: a main electrically operable valve assembly having an inlet and an outlet; and a filter electrically operable valve assembly having an inlet and an outlet, the outlet of the filter electrically operable valve assembly being fluidly coupled to the inlet of the main electrically operable valve assembly. A filtration system includes an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of the filtration system being fluidly coupled to a cold water source, and the outlet of the filtration system being fluidly coupled to the inlet of the filter electrically operable valve assembly. A controller is operably coupled to the main electrically operable valve assembly and the filter electrically operable valve assembly. A capacitive sensor is operably coupled to the controller. The controller defines a first mode and a second mode, in which the main electrically operable valve assembly is open and the filter electrically operable valve assembly is closed, and in which the main electrically operable valve assembly is closed and the filter electrically operable valve assembly is open.

[0010] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments which illustrate the best mode presently believed to be carrying out the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The foregoing aspects and many of the expected advantages of the present invention may be better understood by referring to the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which may make it more readily understood, wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 is a block diagram of an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 is a block diagram of yet another illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3 is a block diagram of yet another illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 4 is a block diagram of yet another illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an illustrative rotary diverter valve for use within a water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 6 Yes means Figure 5 A schematic diagram of an illustrative rotary diverter valve operation;

[0018] Figure 7 is a block diagram of yet another illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an illustrative water divider device including a Figure 7 A rotary diverter valve used with a water filtration system;

[0020] Fig. 9 yes Figure 8 An exploded perspective view of an illustrative water diverter device;

[0021] Fig.10 is an illustrative water diverter device along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 1 , showing the valve in normal tap water mode;

[0022] Fig.11 is similar to Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of an illustrative water diverter device of , showing the valve in a filtered water mode;

[0023] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 A detailed cross-sectional view of the reed switch showing the reed switch in an off position;

[0024] Fig.13 yes Fig.11A detailed cross-sectional view of the reed switch showing the reed switch in an open position;

[0025] Fig.14 yes Figure 7 a perspective view of an illustrative user interface for a water filtration system;

[0026] Fig.15 yes Figure 7 A flow chart of an illustrative functional working logic of a water filtration system;

[0027] Fig.16 is a block diagram of yet another illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0028] Fig.17 is a schematic diagram showing the operation of an illustrative linear diverter valve for use within a water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0029] Fig.18 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of an under-counter mounted wireless button for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0030] Fig.19 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a wireless button mounted to a faucet for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0031] Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a foot-activated wireless button for activating an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0032] Fig.21 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a wireless button on a switch plate for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0033] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a wireless button mounted on a countertop for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0034] Fig.23 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a cabinet knob for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0035] Fig.24 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a button utilized on a towel rack for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0036] Fig.25is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a separate spout for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig.26 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a button mounted in a hole on a countertop and within a cabinet door for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0038] Fig. 27 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a kick-mounted button for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0039] Fig.28 is a perspective view showing a user interface in the form of a button coupled to a hanger for enabling an illustrative water filtration system of the present disclosure;

[0040] Fig.29 yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of an illustrative water filtration system;

[0041] Fig.30 yes Fig.29 A rear perspective view of an illustrative water filtration system;

[0042] Fig.31 yes Fig.30 A partially exploded perspective view of a water filtration system;

[0043] Fig.32 yes Fig.30 A partial perspective view of a water filtration system of FIG. 1 showing an illustrative water diverter device; and

[0044] Fig.33 is an illustrative water filtration system along Fig.31 A cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33.

[0045] Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent exemplary embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present invention, and such illustrations should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] The embodiments of the invention described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Rather, the embodiments chosen for description are selected to enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention.

[0047] First reference Figure 1, an illustrative water filtration system 10 of the present disclosure includes a water divider device 12 for use with a faucet 13, which is illustratively in fluid communication with the water divider device 12 and downstream of the water divider device. Illustratively, the water divider device 12 is an electronic filter switch that includes three electrically operable valves 14, 16, 18 arranged in parallel. In the illustrative embodiment, each of the electrically operable valves 14, 16, 18 is a solenoid valve, but other types of valves may be substituted. The illustrative valve configuration implements two states or modes of the water filtration system 10. These states or modes include a normal or default state or mode (also referred to as a normal tap water mode) and an enabled or filtered state or mode (also referred to as a filtered water mode).

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrically operable valve 14 (sometimes referred to as an unfiltered water solenoid valve) is a normally open solenoid valve, thereby allowing unfiltered cold water 22 from the cold water source 20 to flow through the unfiltered cold water path 25 to the faucet mixing valve 24. The electrically operable valve 16 (sometimes referred to as a filtered water solenoid valve) is illustratively a normally closed solenoid valve in fluid communication with the water filtration device 26 through the filtered cold water path 27. When the electrically operable valve 16 is open, the cold water 22 from the cold water source 20 passes through the filtration system 26 and becomes filtered water 28. However, the electrically operable valve 16 is normally closed, and therefore does not allow the filtered cold water 28 to pass through to the faucet mixing valve 24 by default.

[0049] The electrically operable valve 18, sometimes referred to as a hot (unfiltered) water solenoid valve, is illustratively a normally open solenoid valve and allows hot water 30 from a hot water source 32 to pass through an unfiltered hot water path 33 to the faucet mixing valve 24. Thus, in a normal or default mode of the system 10, both cold water 22 and hot water 30 flow through the system 10 to the faucet mixing valve 24 through the unfiltered cold water path 25 and the unfiltered hot water path 33, respectively.

[0050] In the enabled or filtered mode, the control module or controller 34 electrically enables the valves 14, 16, 18. When enabled, the electrically operable valve 14 is closed, thereby shutting off the flow of unfiltered cold water 22 through the water divider device 12. Additionally, when enabled, the electrically operable valve 16 is opened, thereby allowing filtered water 28 to flow through the water divider device 12 to the faucet mixing valve 24. Finally, when enabled, the electrically operable valve 18 shuts off the flow of hot water 30 into the water divider device 12. Thus, in the enabled or filtered mode of the water filtration system 10, the hot water 30 is shut off, and only the filtered cold water 28 passes through the water divider device 12 to the faucet mixing valve 24.

[0051] The control module 34 illustratively includes control electronics (e.g., a processor 36 in communication with a memory 38 storing machine-readable instructions for execution by the processor 36) and communication electronics (e.g., a radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth and / or Wi-Fi transceiver 40). In this way, the control module 34 can communicate with the electrically operable valves 14, 16, 18 and the user interface 42 by wire or wireless communication. The control module 34 and / or the user interface 42 can also include visual indicators (e.g., lights) and / or audible indicators (e.g., buzzers) to provide feedback to the user of the system operation. Illustratively, a conventional power source 43 (e.g., an AC / DC converter and / or a battery) is electrically coupled to the controller 34.

[0052] The cold water source 20 may include a conventional cold water stop valve, and the hot water source 32 may include a conventional hot water stop valve. The mixing valve 24 is illustratively part of the faucet 13, which includes a delivery spout 44 defining a faucet water outlet 46. The mixing valve 24 may be of conventional design, including a movable valve member (not shown) operably coupled to a manual valve handle 47 to control the flow of cold water and hot water to an outlet port (not shown), thereby controlling the flow rate and / or temperature of water supplied to the faucet water outlet 46. The mixing valve 24 may be of the type further described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,074 to Rosko et al., the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0053] The water filtration device 26 may include a water filter 70 of conventional design, such as a 3-stage water filter. An illustrative water filter 70 may be an Aqua-Pure 3M® water filter available from 3M Company of Maplewood, Minnesota (USA). TM Water filter.

[0054] An optional ultraviolet (UV) module 48 may be added to the system 10 and positioned within the water diverter device 12 and fluidly coupled downstream of all three electrically operable valves 14, 16, 18. The illustrative UV module 48 includes a UV sterilizer (light source) that operates while water is flowing through the system 10. This ensures that all water is sterilized before it flows into the faucet mixing valve 24 and addresses concerns that a user may view filtered water flowing through the same spout 44 as unfiltered water. In certain illustrative embodiments, the UV module 48 may be operated at times when the water is not flowing to ensure that the still water and associated flow paths remain clean.

[0055] The illustrative water filtration system 10 may be operated in the following manner: the user turns on the water at the faucet mixing valve 24 by operation of the handle 47, and then activates the water divider device 12 through the user interface 42. The user may then visually recognize that the water divider device 12 is activated and operating in the filtered mode by a lower flow rate at the faucet water outlet 46 and / or visual or auditory feedback from the water divider device 12 (e.g., by the control module 34 and / or the user interface 42). The user may then continue to use the filtered water defined at the faucet water outlet 46. The water lines required to supply the filtered water are illustratively small, and therefore the time to flush them will be nominal (e.g., a few seconds). The lines will be cleaned shortly after the user notices that the water is switched (e.g., mode switch).

[0056] In an illustrative embodiment, the water divider device 12 may include a means for displaying a delay in purification to a user. For example, the water divider device 12 may include a light that displays a progressive color change or a speaker that emits an audible beep to notify a user that the water filtration system 10 is purified and ready to dispense water. In an illustrative embodiment, the water divider device 12 may include a light that displays blue when the water is clean (i.e., purified). Illustratively, the water divider device 12 may include settings for the user to adjust the purification time based on the flow rate and / or include an advanced device purification based on the measured flow rate.

[0057] Reference now Figure 2 , yet another illustrative embodiment of a water filtration system 50 is shown. The water filtration system 50 operates similarly to the water filtration system 10, but is configured as an add-on to an existing faucet having electronic control and communication electronics. As such, similar components are identified with similar reference numerals in the following description.

[0058] Unfiltered cold water and filtered cold water and unfiltered hot water are provided to the faucet mixing valve 24 in the same manner as described above for system 10. However, after exiting the faucet mixing valve 24, the mixed water flow 54 illustratively passes through a capacitive sensing or touch control module 56 and / or a voice recognition module 58.

[0059] The illustrative capacitive sensing control module 56 includes capacitive sensing technology to detect when a user's hand is near or touching the faucet 13 (such as the delivery spout 44). More specifically, the capacitive sensing control module 56 illustratively includes a capacitive sensor operably coupled to the faucet 13. Once the signal from the capacitive sensor reaches an activation or deactivation threshold, the touch control module 56 communicates the command to the controller 34 via digital communication. The controller 34 then dispenses or stops the flow of water based on the received command.

[0060] The illustrative voice recognition module 58 includes a method for receiving auditory input (e.g., voice commands) from a user for controlling the operation of the water flow in the system 50. The voice recognition module 58 is in electrical communication with the controller 34. The controller 34 then controls the water flow based on the communications received from the voice recognition module 58. The illustrative touch control and voice recognition modules may be of the type further described in detail in U.S. Patent No. 7,537,023, U.S. Patent No. 7,690,395, U.S. Patent No. 7,150,293, U.S. Patent No. 7,997,301, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0299941, and PCT International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2009 / 075858, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] Similar to the water divider device 12, the water divider device 52 may contain an optional UV module 48. The method of operation and use are the same as previously described. However, in the water divider device 52, the UV module 48 is illustratively located downstream of the faucet mixing valve 24, the touch module 56, and the voice recognition module 58. The UV module 48 is illustratively positioned within the water divider device 52 just before the water outlet 46 of the spout 44.

[0062] Reference now Figure 3 , yet another illustrative embodiment of a water filtration device 70 is shown. An illustrative advantage of the water filtration system 70 is the integration of voice and / or touch sensing, such that filtration can be requested by voice and / or touch commands, and a specific volume of filtered water can be requested, potentially including purifying the water line, then waiting, then dispensing filtered water, etc. More specifically, the water filtration system 70 operates similarly to the water filtration system 10, wherein voice recognition and touch sensing are incorporated into the water divider device 72. This is in contrast to the water divider device 52, which illustratively relies on the touch sensing module 56 and the voice recognition module 58 to be incorporated as part of the existing faucet 13.

[0063] like Figure 3 As shown, the unfiltered cold water 22 and the filtered cold water 28 and the unfiltered hot water 30 are similar to those described above for Figure 1 1 and 2. The water flow 54 is provided to the faucet mixing valve 24 in the same manner as described above for the water filtration system 10 of the present invention. However, after exiting the faucet mixing valve 24, the water flow 54 flows back into the water divider device 72 and flows through the temperature sensor 74 and the flow rate sensor 76 before exiting through the spout 44. The temperature sensor 74 and the flow rate sensor 76 provide signals indicating the temperature and flow rate of the water flow 54, respectively, to the controller 34.

[0064] The water divider device 72 illustratively includes a capacitive sensing module 78 (e.g., a capacitive sensor (sensing chip on a printed circuit board (pcb)) that is similar in operation and use to the capacitive sensing module 56 described above. In addition, the water divider device 72 illustratively includes a voice recognition module 80 (illustratively, including a Wi-Fi chip) that is similar in operation and use to the voice recognition module 58 described above. Similar to the water divider device 52, the water divider device 72 can contain an optional UV module 48 that is positioned within the water divider device 72 intermediate the mixing valve 24 and the outlet 46 of the nozzle 44.

[0065] In a further illustrative embodiment, an electrically operable mixing valve, such as an electric proportional valve (EPV), may be provided upstream of the water divider device 12, 52, 72, whereby a corresponding hot water solenoid valve 18 would not be required. This illustrative embodiment would not require an additional shutoff valve (i.e., hot water solenoid valve 18) because the EPV would know when to shut off the hot water. More specifically, the upstream EPV may cooperate with the control module 34 to ensure that the hot water is shut off before the water divider device 12, 52, 72 is enabled to allow water to flow through the corresponding filter device 26. The water divider device 12, 52, 72 may be downstream of the EPV because the EPV can ensure that the water supplied is always cold before the water divider device 12, 52, 72 is enabled.

[0066] Figure 1 The illustrative water filtration system 10 is configured as a completely self-contained, universal device that can be used with most conventional kitchen faucets. Figure 2 The illustrative water filtration system 50 is configured to enable potential communication with the filter switch device 52 so that the filter switch device can be activated using a touch command or a voice command, and no separate remote button is required. In this scenario, the touch or capacitive sensing module is the entire touch product that includes the electrically operable valve and / or temperature sensor.

[0067] exist Figure 3 In the water filtration system 70, the capacitive sensing module 78, the voice recognition module 80 and the water diverter device 72 are fully integrated. Therefore, in addition to not requiring a separate button, because the water diverter device 72 can be activated using touch or voice, the water diverter device has the additional advantage of not requiring redundant solenoids in the capacitive sensing module 78, because the water diverter device 72 can use the filter switch valve 14, 16, 18 to turn the water on and off. The water filtration system 70 also provides the ability to use the voice module 80 to use metered dispensing of filtered water.

[0068] Reference now Figure 4, another illustrative embodiment of a water filtration system 100 is shown to include a water divider device 102. The water divider device 102 illustratively includes a plurality of electrically operable valves 14, 16, 108, and 114 that are arranged in parallel with each other and configured to control the flow of different types of water to a water outlet 46. As further detailed in conjunction with the illustrative embodiments, the electrically operable valve 14 (sometimes referred to as an unfiltered water solenoid valve) is a normally open solenoid valve that allows unfiltered cold water 22 from a cold water source 20 to flow through an unfiltered cold water path 25 to a faucet mixing valve 24. The electrically operable valve 16 (sometimes referred to as a filtered water solenoid valve) is illustratively a normally closed solenoid valve that is in fluid communication with a water filtration device 26 through a filtered cold water path 27.

[0069] The electrically operable valve 108 (sometimes referred to as a make-up cold water valve or a remineralizer solenoid valve) is a normally closed solenoid valve in fluid communication with the filtration device 26 and the remineralizer 104 via the remineralizer flow path 106. The electrically operable valve 114 (sometimes referred to as a make-up cold water valve or an ozone solenoid valve) is a normally closed solenoid valve in fluid communication with the ozone system 110 via the ozone flow path 112.

[0070] In the default operating mode, the water divider device 102 works similarly to the water divider device 12 described above. In the enabled mode, the water divider device 102 can switch through multiple forms of modified water. The cold water 22 can pass through the filtering device 26. The filtered cold water 28 can then directly reach the faucet mixing valve 24 by opening the electrically operable valve 16, or it can pass through the remineralizer system 104.

[0071] The illustrative remineralizer system 104 may be of conventional design and add minerals back to the water after filtering. Next, the remineralized water 106 flows to the faucet mixing valve 24 by opening the electrically operable valve 108. Additionally, the cold water 22 from the cold water source 20 may flow directly into the ozone system 110 to reduce contaminants in the water. In other illustrative embodiments, the ozone system 110 may be positioned to receive filtered water from the filtration device 26.

[0072] Further references Figure 4In the illustrative embodiment of the present invention, by opening the electrically operable valve 114, ozonated water 112 flows to the faucet mixing valve 24. The ozone system 110 can be of conventional design for treating water by an ozone generator. Exemplary ozone generators can be purchased from EOI Electrolytic Ozone Inc. or Klaris Corporation Inc. Additional details of ozone generator systems are detailed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 9,919,939 to Rosko et al., the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. The remineralized and ozonated water is illustratively shown in Figure 4 However, other types of modified water may be substituted. For example, water with different mineral blends, flavored water, and / or carbonated water may be substituted.

[0073] Similar to the water divider device 12, the water divider device 102 can contain an optional UV module 48. The method and use of operation are similar to the method and use described previously. In addition, the water divider device 102 can contain a flow meter 116 to measure the water flow through the system 100 and provide a signal indicating the water flow to the controller 34. Using a flow meter 116 in the system 100 has the additional benefit that the water filtration system 100 can track the filter life, especially if the filter system 26 used has a known filter life. The smart application or button on the water divider device 102 and / or the user interface 42 can be used to configure the filter life of the attached filter system 26, and can even track multiple filter stages with different filter life based on actual use. Filter life tracking can be possible without the use of a flow meter 116. The user can measure the flow or use a value from a product data sheet, and then measure the time when the filter system 26 is active. Compared to what most users usually do and estimate the use based on time, this will still provide more accurate life tracking.

[0074] Automatic ordering of replacement filters can be accomplished through a smart application (e.g., through a smart phone) if flow based notifications are coordinated with filter or filter life tracking. Over time, a reduction in flow rate can be diagnosed, indicating a clogged filter. All of this can be done when connected to the controller 34 and / or an external processing unit. High water temperature can be flagged by a touch module or voice recognition device as an indication of a hot water shutoff failure in the water diverter device. Feedback can also be given to the user that they forgot to turn the water to cold and / or noticed an abnormally low flow rate, and the user is asked if they had the handle at full flow, full cold. Additionally, the system 100 can be configured to track maintenance of the ozone system 110.

[0075] Other benefits of adding flow meter 116 to system 100 include the possibility of metered dispensing. Because water divider device 102 can turn water on and off (both hot and cold can be done separately), purge lines, indicate status, etc., it can also perform metered dispensing of filtered water, hot water, or other water types. In addition, the integration of ozone system 110 can be used as a sterilization method for water divider device 100 and faucet 13, even if only for a short period of time before filtered water is used.

[0076] The control module 34 may include a routine of computer executable instructions stored in the memory 38 for execution by the processor 36 to operate the water filtration system 100, including the purified water line and then allow the user to enable (e.g., by the touch of the faucet 13) metered dispensing of filtered water. Flow notifications and / or automatic ordering of replacement filters may be accomplished through metered dispensing operations from the water divider device 102 and / or input from the flow meter 116. In addition, over time, a decrease in flow rate may be diagnosed, indicating a clogged filter. And, high water temperature may be flagged by the control module 34 as an indication of an operational malfunction of the hot water electrically operable valve 18. Feedback that the user failed to turn on the cold water and / or noticed an abnormally low flow rate may also be provided, and the user is asked whether the handle 47 of the mixing valve 24 is in the full cold water position.

[0077] In addition, the illustrative water diverter device 102 may include a conventional instant hot water system 120. Hot water 30 from a hot water source 32 may flow through the instant hot water system 120. Then, by opening the electrically operable valve 124, the hot water 122 flows to the faucet mixing valve 24. The illustrative system 100 may include a wireless remote control 130 that allows a user to input a requested water type. The wireless remote control 130 communicates with the controller 34. The controller 34 then configures the system 100 by opening and closing the electrically operable valves 14, 16, 18, 106, 112, and 124 to output the user's requested water type. The wireless remote control 130 may form part of the user interface 42, or be separate and distinct therefrom.

[0078] In some illustrative embodiments, the system 100 may also include a method for indicating to the user that the water is clean (or in the case of something other than filtered water, that the water type has been successfully changed). The wireless remote control 130 and / or the user interface 42 may contain lights that change color, brightness, or flash to indicate the change of state to the user. These lights may show the user that the water diverter device 102 is enabled when the water type has been switched and when the water has had time to clean the lines and is ready to drink. In one illustrative embodiment, an auditory or voice queue may be used to notify the user of the change in the system 100. In another illustrative embodiment, a water pulse may be used to notify the user of the change in the system 100. When the water is changed to the new water type, the water flows until all the water has been flushed out of the lines, the water flow stops momentarily, and then starts again, thereby indicating the change to the user.

[0079] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6 , another illustrative embodiment of the water diverter device 200 includes a water diverter device 200 that replaces the water diverter device 200. Figures 1 to 4 A rotary or rotational diverter valve 202 of the described plurality of solenoid valves 14, 16, 18, 106, 112, and 124. The valve 202 is combined with a gear motor 203 or other rotary actuator. A three-function diverter valve, such as the model T11843 available from the Delta Faucet Company of Indianapolis, Indiana, can be used. The rotor 204 is configured to receive water through an inlet 205, and when the rotor 204 rotates, the water is connected to different outlets 206, 208, 210, 212. Illustratively, four outlets are shown, but the valve 202 may include any number of outlets and / or inlets. In addition, the valve 202 may include multiple simultaneous outlets, i.e., water may flow from any combination of the outlets 206, 208, 210, 212.

[0080] In the illustrative water diverter device 200, the outlets 206, 208, 210, 212 and the inlet 205 are reversed so that the outlets 206, 208, 210, 212 receive water to define the inlet and the inlet 205 discharges water to define the outlet. This dual version of the rotary diverter valve 202 can be used to redirect cold water and simultaneously shut off hot water. This rotary diverter has little to no bias or water pressure to resist rotation, which makes it easy to rotate with a small, inexpensive gear motor 203.

[0081] Figures 7 to 14Yet another illustrative water filtration system 220 is shown that includes a water diverter device 221 in the form of a dual rotary (rotary or rotational) diverter valve 222. The illustrative water filtration system 220 includes many features similar to those detailed above in conjunction with the other illustrative water filtration systems 10, 50, 70, 100. As such, similar components are identified with similar reference numerals in the following description.

[0082] The illustrative diverter valve 222 is operably coupled to a rotary actuator, such as a gear motor 224, which in turn is operably coupled to the controller 34. Figure 7 , the water filtration system 220 is illustratively in fluid communication with the cold water source 20 and the hot water source 32. The cold water source 20 is configured to supply cold water 22 to the unfiltered cold water path 25 and the filtered cold water path 27. The filtration system 26 is illustratively disposed in the filtered cold water path 27 to supply filtered cold water 28 to the water divider device 221. The hot water source 32 illustratively provides hot water to the water divider device 221 through the unfiltered hot water path 33.

[0083] Reference now Figure 8 and Fig. 9 The diverter valve 222 illustratively includes a valve body 225 including an unfiltered cold water inlet 226 in fluid communication with the unfiltered cold water path 25, a hot water inlet 228 in fluid communication with the unfiltered hot water path 33, and a filtered water inlet 230 in fluid communication with the filtered cold water path 27. Fig. 9 The illustrative valve body 225 further includes a filtered water outlet 232 in fluid communication with the mixing valve 24 of the faucet 13 , an unfiltered cold water outlet 233 in fluid communication with the faucet mixing valve 24 , and a hot water outlet 234 in fluid communication with the faucet mixing valve 24 .

[0084] The illustrative diverter valve 222 includes a rotary valve member 236 for controlling fluid communication between the water inlets 226, 228, 230 and the water outlets 232, 233, 234. The rotary valve member 236 illustratively includes a rotatable rod or piston 237 that includes a plurality of axially spaced control recesses 238a, 238b, and 238c. The control recesses 238a, 238b, and 238c are illustratively associated with the unfiltered cold water inlet 226, the hot water inlet 228, and the filtered water inlet 230, respectively.

[0085] The valve body 225 illustratively includes a body portion 239 that is fluidly coupled to a connector portion 240. A clip 242 illustratively secures the connector portion 240 to the body portion 239. The connector portion 240 includes a first inlet 244 and a second inlet 246 that are in fluid communication with a combined outlet 248. The first inlet 244 is fluidly coupled to the filtered water outlet 232, and the second inlet 246 is fluidly coupled to the unfiltered cold water outlet 233. O-rings 247 are illustratively received within the inlets 244 and 246 to provide a fluid seal between the connector portion 240 and the body portion 239 of the valve body 225.

[0086] Illustratively, the diverter valve 222 also includes a support bracket 250 that supports the valve body 225 and the motor 224. A mount 252 couples the motor 224 to the support bracket 250, and a cover 254 is secured to the mount 252. Conventional fasteners, such as bolts 256, illustratively secure the mount 252 to the support bracket 250. A valve support 258 receives the rotary valve member 236 and couples the valve body 225 to the support bracket 250. Conventional fasteners, such as bolts 260, illustratively secure the valve support 258 to the support bracket 250.

[0087] Further references Fig.10 , the rotary valve member 236 of the rotary diverter valve 222 enables normal operation of the faucet 13 through the mixing valve 24 in the default or normal tap water mode. More specifically, the cold water inlet 226 is in fluid communication with the cold water outlet 233 through the control recess 238a, and the hot water inlet 228 is in fluid communication with the hot water outlet 234 through the control recess 238b. In this way, cold water 227 can flow through the cold water inlet 226 and pass through the control recess 238a. Cold water 249 then passes through the cold water outlet 233 and exits the valve body 225 through the combined outlet 248. Similarly, hot water 229 can flow through the hot water inlet 228 and pass through the control recess 238b. Hot water 235 then exits the valve body 225 through the hot water outlet 234. At the same time, the diverter valve 222 blocks the cold water 231 from flowing through the filtered water outlet 232, as further described herein.

[0088] Fig.11 The rotary diverter valve 222 is shown in an activated or filtered water mode, wherein the rotary valve member 236 has been driven by the motor 224 from Fig.10234. The rotary valve member 236 is rotated to the position of. In this mode, the rotary valve member 236 blocks the cold water 227 from flowing from the cold water inlet 226 to the cold water outlet 233. The rotary valve member 236 also blocks the hot water 229 from flowing from the hot water inlet 228 to the hot water outlet 234. At the same time, the rotary valve member 236 provides fluid communication between the filtered water inlet 230 and the filtered water outlet 232 through the control recess 238c. Similar to what is detailed above in conjunction with the diverter valve 202, the rotary valve member 236 is illustratively moved using a single motor 224.

[0089] like Fig.12 and Fig.13 As shown, a reed switch 268 may be provided to selectively block water flow through the filtered water outlet 232. Illustratively, the switch 268 is operably coupled to a magnet 270 supported by a blocking piston 272, wherein a spring 274 is operably coupled to the piston 272. The spring 274 is positioned between the base 276 and the piston 272.

[0090] The piston 272 is configured to move between a blocking position (ie, filtered water off) in which the piston engages the valve seat 278 and a non-blocking position (ie, filtered water on). Fig.10 and Fig.12 ), in which the piston is in a spaced relationship with the valve seat 278 ( Fig.11 and Fig.13 ). In the blocking position, the illustrative piston 272 blocks most of the water flow through the filtered water outlet 232. More specifically, the cold water 231 at the filtered water inlet 230 is restricted from flowing to the filtered water outlet 232 and the combined water outlet 248. However, an intentional leak path 279 can be provided through the center of the piston 272 so that in Fig.10 and Fig.12 Limited water flow occurs in filtered water shut-off mode.

[0091] In the unblocking position, the illustrative piston 272 is spaced apart from the valve seat 278, thereby allowing the cold water 231 to flow through the filtered water outlet 232 and out of the combined water outlet 248 (where the cold water is Fig.11 The reed switch 268 and the piston 272 supporting the magnet 270 received within the filtered water outlet 232 may define a relatively inexpensive flow switch similar to that described above in connection with the illustrative water filtration system 10.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the sensor assembly 280 is operably coupled to the gear motor 224. More specifically, the sensor assembly 280 illustratively includes sensors 280a, 280b that are operably coupled to the controller 34 to detect the relative rotational position of the rotary valve member 236. The sensors 282a, 282b are illustratively switches for detecting the relative position of the rod 237. The sensors 282a, 282b are configured to confirm the mode or state of the rotary diverter valve 222 so that the user is assured that he / she is receiving filtered water (i.e., filtered water is flowing through the filter outlet 232). If the sensors 282a, 282b do not confirm that the diverter valve 222 is correctly switching state (e.g., from Fig.10 Normal tap water mode to Fig.11 If the remote user is in filtered water mode), an indicator (e.g., an LED light) in the remote user interface 284 can indicate to him / her that the discharged water is not filtered.

[0093] Fig.12 yes Fig.10 Detailed cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention showing the reed switch 268 in the filtered water on position. Fig.13 yes Fig.11 Detailed cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the present invention, showing the reed switch 268 in the filtered water off position. As described in detail above, the piston 242 is configured to move between a blocking position (i.e., filtered water off) and a non-blocking position (i.e., filtered water on), in which the piston engages the valve seat 243 ( Fig.12 ), in which non-blocking position the piston is in a spaced relationship with the valve seat 243 ( Fig.13 ).

[0094] Fig.14 An illustrative user interface 284 of the water filtration system 220 is shown, which includes a puck-shaped housing 285 that receives a wireless transmitter 286. An enable button 288 (e.g., a push button) and first and second visual indicators 290 and 292 (e.g., lights, such as LEDs) are supported by the housing 285. Illustratively, the visual indicator 290 is a first color light (e.g., a red LED) and the visual indicator 292 is a second color light (e.g., a blue LED).

[0095] Fig.15 yes Fig.13 Flow chart of illustrative functional working logic of water filtration system 220. It should be noted that Fig.13 220 electronics of water filtration systems and Fig.15 The related functions of can be replaced with other suitable electronic devices to provide the desired functions, for example, how the logic controls the lights 290, 292 to signal the filtered state and the unfiltered state based on the valve position and / or delay time.

[0096] Fig.15 The illustrative process 300 of begins at box 302, where a user provides input to the user interface 284 by pressing button 288. When button 288 is pressed, the process continues to box 304, where the transmitter 286 of the user interface 284 transmits a wireless signal. At this time, the red light emitting diode 290 illustratively flashes to provide an indication of the wireless transmission to the user. At box 306, the transceiver 40 of the controller 34 receives the wireless signal. In response, the controller 34 enables the motor 224 at box 308. At box 310, the diverter valve 222 is in an active or filtered water mode, wherein filtered water is provided to the water outlet 46. Next, the controller 34 sends a signal to the user interface 284, which in response enables the blue light emitting diode 292 at box 312. More particularly, the blue light emitting diode 292 provides steady illumination.

[0097] Further references Fig.15 , additional input may be provided by the user pressing the button 288 at box 314. At box 316, the red indicator light 290 on the user interface 284 illustratively flashes to provide the user with an indication of the wireless transmission. At box 318, the motor 224 is enabled to place the diverter valve 222 in the normal tap water mode, as indicated at box 320. At box 322, the controller 34 then sends a signal to the user interface 284 to deactivate the indicators 290, 292. At box 324, if the user forgets to switch the water filtration system 220 from the filtered water mode to the tap water mode after a predetermined time, the motor 224 will automatically move the diverter valve 222 back to the normal tap water mode at box 320.

[0098] Fig.16 Yet another water filtration system 420 is shown that includes many similar components to the above-described water filtration systems 10, 50, 70, 100, 220. As such, similar components are identified with similar reference numerals in the following description.

[0099] The illustrative water filtration system 420 includes a water divider device 421 having a first electrically operable valve or a main electrically operable valve 422 and a second electrically operable valve or a filter electrically operable valve 424. Illustratively, the electrically operable valves 422 and 424 are solenoid valves. A power source 43 (e.g., a battery) can provide power to the system 420 through the main solenoid valve 422 operably coupled to the controller 34. The controller 34 can form part of the main solenoid valve 422 or be a separate component.

[0100] Capacitive sensor 430 is in electrical communication with controller 34 and faucet 13. More particularly, a portion of faucet 13, illustratively sleeve 432, defines an electrode in electrical communication with capacitive sensor 430. Electrode 432 illustratively defines a user interface for providing input to controller 34 and thereby providing operation of electrically operable valves 422 and 424. Illustratively, connector 434 (e.g., a cable, such as an RJ45 cable) electrically couples main solenoid valve 422 and filter solenoid valve 424 through controller 34. Fluid coupler 436 (e.g., a T-connector) fluidly couples main solenoid valve 422 and filter solenoid valve 424.

[0101] The controller 34 illustratively defines a first mode or normal tap water mode and a second mode or filtered water mode. In the first mode, the main electrically operable valve 422 is open and the filter electrically operable valve 424 is closed. In the second mode, the main electrically operable valve 422 is closed and the filter electrically operable valve 424 is open. The controller 34 can switch between the first mode and the second mode in response to user input to the capacitive sensor 430 through the electrode 432 (e.g., the faucet sleeve). For example, a single touch (e.g., a tap) by the user to the faucet sleeve 432 causes the controller 34 to enter the first mode of normal tap water flow, and a double touch (e.g., a double tap) by the user to the faucet sleeve 432 causes the controller 34 to enter the second mode of filtered water flow.

[0102] Reference now Fig.17 , another illustrative embodiment of a water filtration system 450 includes a motorized linear diverter valve 452. The linear diverter valve 452 may include features similar to the type further detailed in PCT International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2023 / 043905 to Wales et al., the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference. The benefit of the electronic water diverter device of the present invention over a mechanical filter switch is that it does not depend on the function or pressure drop of the filter to drive the mechanism, which should make it versatile.

[0103] The motorized linear diverter valve 452 illustratively includes a shuttle 454 configured to receive water (by Fig.17 453 in the figure), and as the linear diverter valve is translated, water from inlet 455 is sequentially fluidly connected to each of the different outlets 456, 458, 460, 462, and 464. Illustratively, five outlets are shown, but the linear diverter valve 452 may include any number of outlets. In addition, the diverter valve 452 may include multiple simultaneous outlets, i.e., water may flow from any combination of outlets 456, 458, 460, 462, and 464.

[0104] for Figures 1 to 17For all of the illustrative embodiments, an optional high flow rate carbon filter (not shown) may be implemented in the unfiltered cold water path 25. This filter may be implemented if the user wishes to always have basic filtration available for cold water. The filtration system 26 is of a higher quality and can then only be used for things like drinking, cooking, and cleaning (as in the case of a reverse osmosis (RO) system).

[0105] In an illustrative embodiment, a reverse osmosis (RO) system can cooperate with metered dispensing to facilitate voice-controlled metered dispensing with line purification. A sequence such as opening a manual faucet valve 24 and telling a voice recognition device 58, 80 (e.g., Alexa) to dispense a volume of filtered water. For example, a user can ask the voice recognition device 58, 80 to dispense a gallon of purified water, which will cause the water diverter device 52, 72 to activate, allowing water to flow for a few seconds, and then shut off the water with the filter switch wireless button flashing, where pressing the button will enable the dispensing of filtered water.

[0106] In the illustrative integrated embodiment systems 50, 70, 100, 220 (e.g., Figures 2 to 4 and Figure 7 ), when the water flow from the water outlet 46 stops, the corresponding filter system 26 can reset to normal water flow through the flow path 25. Alternatively, this can also be configurable, either not reset or reset after a certain period of time. For illustrative independent embodiment systems 10 (e.g., Figure 1 ), an inexpensive flow meter 116 or flow switch can be used to identify when the water flow stops and reset the water diverter device 12. If a flow meter 116 is used, it can also be used with a programmable filter life tracker. If only a flow switch is used, this can be calibrated with the filter flow rate and help approximate the use of a tracker.

[0107] for Figures 1 to 17In all illustrative embodiments of the water filtration system 10, 50, 70, 100, 220, a means (e.g., user interface 42, 284, 432) for user input to control the corresponding system (e.g., a button, switch, dial, or touch screen) can communicate with the controller 34 in wired or wireless communication. Illustratively, the system 10, 50, 70, 100, 220 may include a single button or multiple buttons (e.g., a first button for enabling filtered mode, and a second button for enabling unfiltered mode). In an illustrative embodiment, the button communicates with the controller via a one-way, low-cost radio frequency (RF) link. In another illustrative embodiment, Bluetooth or Wi-Fi is utilized. In an illustrative embodiment, this functionality is integrated with a voice recognition module and / or a touch control module, which will then allow flow-based filter life tracking through communication with the smart filter or user input. In another illustrative embodiment, the user input can be automated using a QR code or radio frequency identification (RFID) on the filter that is scanned by a smart phone through a mobile application (e.g., a smart phone application).

[0108] Figures 18 to 25 Additional illustrative wireless configurations and devices for user input to enable the water diverter devices 12, 52, 72, 102, 221 of the systems 10, 50, 70, 100, 220, respectively, are shown.

[0109] refer to Fig.18 , an illustrative user input may include a button 500 discretely mounted under an edge 502 of a countertop 504 where a faucet 506 is mounted. The button 300 wirelessly communicates with the water diverter devices 12, 52, 72, 102, and 221. When the user presses the button 500, a wireless transmitter on the button 500 sends a signal to the controller 34 to switch between filtered water output and unfiltered water output. Fig.19 A similar button 510 is shown mounted on the body of the faucet 506 (eg, the delivery spout 507 ) along with a flexible strip 512 .

[0110] refer to Fig. 20 , yet another illustrative user input may include a toe pedal 520 mounted behind a cabinet door 522 below the countertop 504. The pedal 520 wirelessly communicates with the diverter devices 12, 52, 72, 102, and 221. When the user's foot gently lifts the pedal upward, a transmitter on the pedal 520 sends a signal to the controller 34 to switch between filtered water output and unfiltered water output. In an illustrative embodiment, the pedal 520 may include indicator lights that allow the user to visually identify when the system is filtering water.

[0111] refer to Fig.21 , another illustrative user input may include a button 530 that functions similarly to the button 500 described above. However, the button 530 is mounted on a light switch plate 532 that includes a toggle switch 534. The light switch plate 532 is mounted on a wall and may replace a standard switch plate that a user may have installed.

[0112] refer to Fig. 22 , another illustrative user input may include a button 540 that functions similarly to the button 500 described above. The button 540 is also mounted with a flexible strip 542. Illustratively, the flexible strip 542 is shown as being clipped to an edge 544 of the countertop 504. In other embodiments, the flexible strip 542 may be mounted to the countertop 504 or other objects around the faucet 506, allowing for flexible placement based on user preference.

[0113] refer to Fig.23 , yet another illustrative user input may include a knob 550 on a cabinet door 522 for enabling the water filtration system 10, 50, 70, 100, 220. The user illustratively turns or pushes the knob 350 to switch between filtered water and unfiltered water. This configuration allows the existing knob 350 to be utilized by attaching the water diverter device 12, 52, 72, 102, and 221 behind the cabinet 522. This illustrative configuration may be wired (as shown) or wireless.

[0114] refer to Fig.24 , another illustrative user input includes a button 560 that functions similarly to the button 500 described above. However, the button 560 is mounted on the end of a towel bar 562 that is placed on the outside of the cabinet door 522. This illustrative configuration can be wired (as shown) or wireless.

[0115] refer to Fig.25 , a separate filtered water faucet 570 is shown supported by countertop 504. Filtered water faucet 370 is illustratively shown on countertop 304 adjacent conventional faucet 306. In other embodiments, filtered water faucet 370 may be conveniently located elsewhere on countertop 504. To switch between filtered and unfiltered water output, a user may illustratively rotate delivery spout 572 of filtered water faucet 570.

[0116] Figure 26 to Figure 28 Various illustrative wired configurations and devices are shown for user input to enable the water diverter devices 12, 52, 72, 102, 221 of the systems 10, 50, 70, 100, 220, respectively. From an interface perspective, wired links are thinner, more flexible, easier to hide, and have more implementation options than cable actuators in mechanical systems.

[0117] refer to Fig.26 , an illustrative user input may include a button 580 mounted in a hole on the countertop 504. This may be particularly convenient for users with a pre-existing opening in the countertop 504. This option is more discrete than attaching a faucet. In some illustrative installations, a small hole may be drilled in the sink flange (or elsewhere in the countertop 504 surrounding the sink), which is typically the case for an on / off button often used for a garbage disposal.

[0118] The button 582 may also be placed just inside the cabinet door 583 to be completely discrete but not out of reach, such as Fig.26 As shown. In addition, the button 582 can be drilled through the false drawer face on the cabinet front and / or the button assembly can be used to replace the drawer face (these drawer faces are removable) without damaging the cabinet. The button 582 can also be installed in or after the pivot assembly. This is popular for the pivot mechanism sold to make the false drawer actually usable.

[0119] The button 584 can also be installed in the skirt 585, such as Fig. 27 shown. Fig.28 It is shown that the button 586 can also be mounted in a hanger 588 hung on the cabinet door 522 for quick installation with no modification at all.

[0120] For the illustrative embodiment where the water filter device 72, 421 is integrated with capacitive sensing (e.g., touch), user input on the faucet sleeve 432 and a corresponding special light color (or pattern) in the indicator light on the faucet 13 can be utilized. The ability to control the water filter device 72, 421 without the need for additional clutter, buttons, holes, or modifications is considered a major advantage.

[0121] Wi-Fi, voice, and smart app integration are also additional options for user input. Next up, there will be the option to use voice for filter activation and no buttons to reduce clutter.

[0122] Figure 29 to Figure 33 Shows Figure 1 1. Additional illustrative implementation details of the illustrative water filtration system 10 of FIG. More specifically, the illustrative water divider device 612 includes many similar features to the water divider device 12 described in detail above. As such, similar components are identified with similar reference numerals in the following description.

[0123] The illustrative water divider assembly 612 includes a flow module 614 received within a housing 615 defined by a cover 616 and a rear wall 618. A mounting bracket 620 may be coupled to the rear wall 618 for supporting the water divider assembly 612 on a wall (e.g., below a countertop) via conventional fasteners such as bolts 622.

[0124] The illustrative flow module 614 includes a valve body 625 similar to the valve body 225 described in detail above. The valve body 625 illustratively includes an unfiltered cold water inlet 226 in fluid communication with the unfiltered cold water path 25, a hot water inlet 228 in fluid communication with the unfiltered hot water path 33, a filtered water inlet 230 in fluid communication with the filtered cold water path 27, and a filtered water outlet 232 in fluid communication with the mixing valve 24 of the faucet 13. The valve body 625 further illustratively includes an unfiltered cold water outlet 233 in fluid communication with the faucet mixing valve 24 and a hot water outlet 234 in fluid communication with the faucet mixing valve 24. Outlets 232 and 233 are fluidly coupled to a combined water outlet 248.

[0125] Conventional fluid couplers, such as internally threaded nuts 624 and 626, are illustratively coupled to inlets 226 and 228, respectively. A quick-connect fluid coupler, such as push-to-connect fitting 628, is illustratively coupled to filtered water inlet 230.

[0126] Conventional fluid couplings, such as external threads 630 and 632, are illustratively coupled to outlets 234 and 248, respectively.

[0127] The power source 43 is in electrical communication with the controller 34. The power source 43 may be of conventional design, such as a battery pack 634 or an AC / DC converter 636. The battery pack 634 illustratively includes a wire 638 and a plug 644, while the AC / DC converter 636 includes a wire 642 and a plug 646. Both the plugs 644 and 646 may be interchangeably coupled to a receiving port 648 supported by the housing 615 and electrically coupled to the controller 34.

[0128] Module 614 also includes a cold water electrically operable valve 650, a hot water electrically operable valve 652, and a filtered water electrically operable valve 654. The electrically operable valves 650, 652, and 654 can be similar to the solenoid valves 14, 16, and 18 described in detail above. Module 614 is illustratively supported by a base 656 received within housing 615. Each of the illustrative solenoid valves 650, 652, and 654 includes a control line 660, 662, and 664, respectively, for coupling to controller 34.

[0129] refer to Fig.33, the valve body 625 includes a main body portion 639 coupled to a connector portion 640. The connector portion 640 includes a first flow passage 672 and a second flow passage 674 coupled to an outlet flow passage 676. Check valves 678 and 680 are illustratively received within the flow passages 672 and 674, respectively. A flow switch 682 may also be received within the flow passage 674. The flow switch 682 is in electrical communication with the controller 34 and detects if water is not flowing through the flow passage 674. When the filtered water stops flowing, the controller 34 switches the device 612 back to the tap water operation mode.

[0130] Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, changes and modifications exist within the spirit and scope of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A water divider device, comprising: an electrically operable valve assembly in fluid communication with a cold water source and a hot water source; a control module electrically coupled to the electrically operable valve assembly; a filtration system in fluid communication with the electrically-operable valve assembly; a user interface operably coupled to the control module; an unfiltered cold water path defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the cold water source to a water outlet; a filtered cold water path defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the cold water source through the filtration system to the water outlet; an unfiltered hot water path defined by the electrically operable valve assembly from the hot water source to the water outlet; wherein the normal position of the valve assembly allows cold water and hot water to flow through the unfiltered cold water path and the unfiltered hot water path to the water outlet; and wherein the control module utilizes input from the user interface to change the position of the valve assembly to a filtering position, thereby stopping the flow of cold water and hot water through the unfiltered cold water path and the unfiltered hot water path, and allowing filtered cold water to flow through the filtered cold water path to the water outlet.

2. The water diverter device according to claim 1, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly comprises: an unfiltered cold water valve in fluid communication with the cold water source to define the unfiltered cold water path and in a normally open position; a filtered cold water valve in fluid communication with the cold water source to define the filtered cold water path and in a normally closed position; and An unfiltered hot water valve is in fluid communication with the hot water source to define the unfiltered hot water path and is in a normally open position.

3. The water diverter device according to claim 2, wherein: Each of the unfiltered cold water valve, the filtered cold water valve, and the unfiltered hot water valve includes a solenoid valve.

4. The water splitter assembly of claim 2, further comprising a make-up cold water valve in fluid communication with the cold water source in parallel with the unfiltered cold water valve and the filtered cold water valve.

5. The water diverter apparatus of claim 4, further comprising an ozone system fluidly coupled to the supplemental cold water valve.

6. The water splitter apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a remineralizer fluidly coupled downstream of the filtration system.

7. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly includes a rotary diverter valve.

8. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly includes a linear diverter valve.

9. The water diverter apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an ultraviolet module positioned downstream of the electrically operable valve assembly.

10. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The control module includes a capacitive sensing module.

11. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The control module includes a speech recognition module.

12. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The user interface includes a wireless transmitter in communication with the control module.

13. The water diverter device of claim 12, wherein: The user interface includes a housing supporting a push button operably coupled to the wireless transmitter.

14. The water diverter device of claim 1, further comprising a mixing valve positioned intermediate the electrically operable valve assembly and the water outlet.

15. The water diverter device of claim 1, wherein: The filtration system includes a water filter, and the control module is configured to track a life of the water filter.

16. The water diverter device of claim 15, further comprising a flow meter operably coupled to the control module and configured to detect water flow through the water filter, the control module being configured to track the life of the water filter based on input from the flow meter.

17. A water divider device, comprising: an electrically operable valve assembly including a cold water inlet in fluid communication with a cold water source, a hot water inlet in fluid communication with a hot water source, and a filtered water inlet; a filtration system in fluid communication with the filtered water inlet of the electrically-operable valve assembly; and Wherein the electrically operable valve assembly comprises a first mode and a second mode, in which the cold water inlet and the hot water inlet are in fluid communication with a water outlet, and in which the filtered water inlet is in fluid communication with the water outlet.

18. The water diverter device of claim 17, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly comprises: an unfiltered cold water valve in fluid communication with the cold water inlet to define the unfiltered cold water path and in a normally open position; a filtered cold water valve in fluid communication with the cold water inlet to define the filtered cold water path and in a normally closed position; and An unfiltered hot water valve is in fluid communication with the hot water inlet to define the unfiltered hot water path and is in a normally open position.

19. The water diverter device of claim 18, wherein: Each of the unfiltered cold water valve, the filtered cold water valve, and the unfiltered hot water valve includes a solenoid valve.

20. The water diverter device of claim 17, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly includes a rotary diverter valve.

21. The water diverter device of claim 17, wherein: The electrically operable valve assembly includes a linear diverter valve.

22. The water diverter apparatus of claim 17, further comprising an ultraviolet module positioned downstream of the electrically operable valve assembly.

23. The water diverter device of claim 17, further comprising a control module in electrical communication with the electrically operable valve assembly.

24. The water diverter device of claim 23, wherein: The control module includes a capacitive sensing module.

25. The water diverter device of claim 23, wherein: The control module includes a speech recognition module.

26. The water diverter device of claim 23, further comprising a user interface, the user interface comprising a wireless transmitter in communication with the control module.

27. The water diverter device of claim 26, wherein: The user interface includes a housing supporting a push button operably coupled to the wireless transmitter.

28. The water diverter device of claim 17, further comprising a mixing valve positioned intermediate the electrically operable valve assembly and the water outlet.

29. A water divider device, comprising: a main electrically operable valve, the main electrically operable valve comprising an inlet and an outlet; a filter electrically operable valve, the filter electrically operable valve comprising an inlet and an outlet, the outlet of the filter electrically operable valve being fluidly coupled to the inlet of the main electrically operable valve; a filtration system comprising an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of the filtration system being fluidly coupled to a cold water source and the outlet of the filtration system being fluidly coupled to an inlet of an electrically operable valve of the filter; a controller operably coupled to the main electrically-operable valve and the filter electrically-operable valve; a capacitive sensor operably coupled to the controller; and wherein the controller defines a first mode in which the main electrically operable valve is open and the filter electrically operable valve is closed and a second mode in which the main electrically operable valve is closed and the filter electrically operable valve is open.

30. The water diverter device of claim 29, further comprising an electrode operably coupled to the controller for receiving input from a user.

31. The water diverter device of claim 30, wherein: The electrodes are defined by faucet components.

32. The water diverter device of claim 31, wherein: The faucet components include a faucet sleeve supporting a delivery spout.

33. The water diverter device of claim 30, wherein: A single touch on the faucet component causes the controller to operate in the first mode, and a double touch on the faucet component causes the controller to operate in the second mode.

34. The water diverter device of claim 29, wherein: Each of the main electrically-operable valve and the filter electrically-operable valve includes a solenoid valve.

35. The water diverter device of claim 29, further comprising: a faucet defining a water outlet; and a mixing valve positioned intermediate the main electrically operable valve and the water outlet.

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