Filter element assembly and ice maker

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of household appliances, and provides a filter element assembly and an ice maker. The filter element assembly comprises a first filter element, and the first filter element comprises a shell, a first water receiving pipe, a first filter part and a second filter part; a first chamber and a second chamber are arranged in the shell, and the first chamber and the second chamber are separated by a spacing assembly; the first water receiving pipe comprises a front water inlet pipe and a front water outlet pipe which are communicated with the first cavity, and a rear water inlet pipe and a rear water outlet pipe which are communicated with the second cavity; the first filtering part is arranged in the first cavity and divides the first cavity into a front water inlet flow channel and a front water outlet flow channel together with the spacing assembly; the second filtering part is arranged in the second cavity and divides the second cavity into a rear water inlet flow channel and a rear water outlet flow channel together with the spacing assembly; the spacing assembly comprises a first spacing piece, and the first spacing piece is of a tubular structure and is arranged in the inner space of the first filtering part to separate the front water outlet flow channel from the second cavity; the outer diameter of the first partition piece ranges from 18 mm to 20 mm, and the thickness of the pipe wall ranges from 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of household appliance technology, and more particularly to filter components and ice makers. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of technology, multi-stage filtration technology has been widely used in household water purifiers, ice makers, and other fields. To achieve different filtration functions, filter cartridges typically need to integrate multiple independent filtration units and corresponding flow channels. In existing technologies, a common solution is to manufacture filtration units with different functions as independent filter cartridges. However, this structure not only occupies a lot of installation space, limiting its application in compact devices (such as ice makers), but also increases material costs and structural weight. Furthermore, the flow channel arrangement of filter cartridges is often circuitous and lengthy, leading to significant head loss and energy consumption. Therefore, how to achieve compact and miniaturized filter structures while ensuring filtration efficiency by optimizing the internal flow channel layout and the placement and parameters of the spacer components in the flow channels has become a critical problem that urgently needs to be solved in this technological field. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application aims to address at least one of the technical problems existing in the related art. To this end, this application proposes a filter element assembly.

[0004] This application also proposes an ice maker.

[0005] A filter element assembly according to a first aspect embodiment of this application includes: The first filter element includes a housing, a first water inlet pipe, a first filter component, and a second filter component; The outer casing has a first chamber and a second chamber, which are separated by a spacer assembly. The first water inlet pipe includes a front water inlet pipe and a front water outlet pipe communicating with the first chamber, and a rear water inlet pipe and a rear water outlet pipe communicating with the second chamber; The first filter element is disposed in the first chamber and, together with the spacer assembly, divides the first chamber into a front inlet channel and a front outlet channel. The second filter element is disposed in the second chamber and, together with the spacer assembly, divides the second chamber into a rear inlet channel and a rear outlet channel. The spacer assembly includes a first spacer, which is a tubular structure disposed in the internal space of the first filter component, separating the pre-outlet water channel from the second chamber. The outer diameter of the first partition is d1, which is 18mm-20mm, and the wall thickness is d2, which is 1.7mm-2.2mm.

[0006] According to the filter element assembly of this application embodiment, the outer diameter d1 is between 18mm and 20mm, which ensures that the first spacer has sufficient structural rigidity, provides stable support when mating with the inner wall of the filter element, and provides the necessary mounting base for the seal at the connection. The wall thickness d2 is controlled between 1.7mm and 2.2mm, achieving a good balance between strength and space utilization. This thickness is sufficient to withstand the pressure difference that may exist inside and outside the filter element without deformation, while avoiding excessive occupation of the limited internal space of the filter element, thereby maximizing the smoothness of water flow.

[0007] According to one embodiment of this application, the spacer assembly further includes a second spacer, a third spacer, and a fourth spacer; the housing is provided with a baffle structure, the baffle structure including a first baffle structure, a second baffle structure, and a third baffle structure; The second spacer is disposed at the first end of the first filter component; The third partition is a tubular structure, disposed inside the first partition, which isolates part of the rear water outlet channel and part of the rear water inlet channel; The fourth partition is located outside the second filter component, separating the front water inlet channel from the rear water inlet channel; The first spacer has a first annular groove on the side facing the first baffle structure, and the first annular groove is used to install the first sealing ring. The second spacer has a second annular groove on the side facing the second baffle structure, and the second annular groove is used to install the second sealing ring; The third spacer has a third annular groove on the side facing the third baffle structure, and the third annular groove is used to install the third sealing ring. A first water passage gap is provided between the third baffle structure and the first partition, and the first water passage gap connects the rear water inlet channel and the rear water inlet pipe; A second water passage gap is provided between the second partition and the outer shell, and the second water passage gap connects the front water inlet channel and the front water inlet pipe; A third water passage gap is provided between the second partition and the first baffle structure, and the third water passage gap connects the front water outlet channel and the front water outlet pipe.

[0008] According to one embodiment of this application, the number of the first sealing rings is two; and / or, the number of the second sealing rings is one; and / or, the number of the third sealing rings is one.

[0009] According to an embodiment of the present application, the inner diameter of the first sealing ring is d3, d3 is 14 mm - 16 mm, and the wire diameter is d4, d4 is 1 mm - 2 mm; and / or, the inner diameter of the second sealing ring is d5, d5 is 23 mm - 25 mm, and the wire diameter is d6, d6 is 1.5 mm - 3 mm; and / or, the inner diameter of the third sealing ring is d7, d7 is 6 mm - 8 mm, and the wire diameter is d8, d8 is 1.5 mm - 3 mm.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the present application, an interference fit or a transition fit exists between the fourth spacer and the first spacer.

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present application, the fourth spacer is of a tubular structure, the minimum outer diameter of the fourth spacer is d9, d9 is 42 mm - 50 mm, and the maximum wall thickness of the tube is d10, d10 is 2 mm - 2.6 mm.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the present application, the spacer assembly further includes a fifth spacer, and the fifth spacer is disposed at the second end of the second filtering component.

[0013] According to an embodiment of the present application, the thickness dimension of the third rib structure is smaller than the thickness dimensions of the first rib structure and the second rib structure, and / or, the length dimension of the third rib structure is smaller than the length dimensions of the first rib structure and the second rib structure.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present application, the distance between the central axis of the rear inlet pipe and the central axis of the first water passing gap of the rear inlet water flow channel is h1, and the distance between the central axis of the rear outlet pipe and the central axis of the water outlet of the rear outlet water flow channel is h4. Among them, h1 < h4, h1 is 0 mm - 1 mm, and h4 is 0 mm - 1 mm.

[0015] According to an embodiment of the present application, the distance between the central axis of the front inlet pipe and the central axis of the second water passing gap of the front inlet water flow channel is h2, and the distance between the central axis of the front outlet pipe and the central axis of the third water passing gap of the front outlet water flow channel is h3. Among them, h2 < h3, h2 is 0 mm - 0.5 mm, and h3 is 0 mm - 0.5 mm.

[0016] According to an embodiment of the present application, the outer diameter of the housing is d11, d11 is 45 mm - 60 mm.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present application, the front inlet pipe, the rear inlet pipe, the rear outlet pipe, and the front outlet pipe are distributed along the central axis of the first filter element and are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the first filter element.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this application, a second filter element and a water circuit board are included. The water circuit board includes a board body, which is provided with a pre-inlet water inlet, a post-inlet water inlet, a post-outlet water inlet, and a pre-outlet water inlet for connecting to a first filter element. The board body is also provided with a wastewater inlet, a pure water inlet, and a feed water inlet for connecting to the second filter element. The board body is provided with a first connecting water channel and a second connecting water channel. The feed water inlet and the pre-outlet water inlet are connected through the first connecting water channel, and the pure water inlet and the post-inlet water inlet are connected through the second connecting water channel. Both the first connecting water channel and the second connecting water channel extend in a straight line.

[0019] An ice maker according to a second aspect of this application includes: Main body of the ice-making equipment; The filter element assembly described above.

[0020] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or related technologies of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the water channel plate provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0023] Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0024] Figure 3 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the second filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0025] Figure 4 This is the second schematic diagram of the water channel plate provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0026] Figure 5 This is the third schematic diagram of the water channel plate provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0027] Figure 6 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0028] Figure 7 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0029] Figure 8 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the second filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0030] Figure 9 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the second filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0031] Figure 10 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the second filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0032] Figure 11 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0033] Figure 12 This is the fifth schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0034] Figure 13 This is one of the magnified structural diagrams of part A of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0035] Figure 14 This is the second partially enlarged structural diagram of point A of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0036] Figure 15 This is the third partially enlarged structural diagram of point A of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0037] Figure 16 This is the fourth partially enlarged structural diagram of point A of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0038] Figure 17 This is the fifth of the enlarged structural diagrams of part A of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0039] Figure 18 This is one of the magnified structural diagrams of part B of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0040] Figure 19 This is the second partially enlarged structural schematic diagram of point B of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0041] Figure 20 This is the sixth schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0042] Figure 21 This is the seventh schematic diagram of the structure of the first filter element provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] Figure label: 100. First filter element; 101. First chamber; 102. Second chamber; 103. Pre-inlet channel; 104. Pre-outlet channel; 105. Rear inlet channel; 106. Rear outlet channel; 110. First water inlet pipe; 111. Front water inlet pipe; 112. Front water outlet pipe; 113. Rear water inlet pipe; 114. Rear water outlet pipe; 115. First annular sealing groove; 116. First annular ring; 120. Outer shell; 121. First baffle structure; 122. Second baffle structure; 123. Third baffle structure; 130. First filter element; 140. Second filter component; 150. First spacer assembly; 1510. First spacer; 1511. First annular groove; 1512. First sealing ring; 1520. Second spacer; 1521. Second annular groove; 1522. Second sealing ring; 1530. Third spacer; 1531. Third annular groove; 1532. Third sealing ring; 1540. Fourth spacer; 155. First water passage gap; 156. Second water passage gap; 157. Third water passage gap; 158. Water outlet; 1590. Fifth spacer; 200. Second filter element; 201. Third chamber; 202. Wastewater channel; 203. Pure water channel; 204. Inlet water channel; 210. Second water inlet pipe; 211. Inlet water pipe; 212. Pure water pipe; 213. Wastewater pipe; 214. Second annular sealing groove; 215. Second annular ring; 220. Third filter element; 230. Second spacer assembly; 300, Water circuit board; 310, Board body; 311, First core-pulling opening; 312, Second core-pulling opening; 320, Front water inlet; 330, Front water outlet; 340, Rear water inlet; 350, Rear water outlet; 360, Incoming water inlet; 370, Pure water inlet; 380, Wastewater inlet; 3910, First connecting water circuit; 3920, Second connecting water circuit. Detailed Implementation

[0044] The embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and examples. The following examples are used to illustrate this application, but should not be used to limit the scope of this application.

[0045] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application. In addition, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "connected" and "linked" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to fixed connections or detachable connections, wherein a fixed connection can include an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in the embodiments of this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0047] In the embodiments of this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0048] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0049] According to the filter element assembly proposed in the first aspect of this application, refer to... Figures 1 to 3The system includes: a first filter element 100, a second filter element 200, and a water circuit board 300. The water circuit board 300 includes a board body 310, which is provided with a front water inlet 320, a rear water inlet 340, a rear water outlet 350, and a front water outlet 330 for connecting the first filter element 100. The board body 310 is provided with a wastewater outlet 380, a pure water outlet 370, and a water inlet 360 for connecting the second filter element 200. The board body 310 is provided with a first connecting water circuit 3910 and a second connecting water circuit 3920. The water inlet 360 and the front water outlet 330 are connected through the first connecting water circuit 3910, and the pure water outlet 370 and the rear water inlet 340 are connected through the second connecting water circuit 3920. The first connecting water circuit 3910 and the second connecting water circuit 3920 are both distributed along a straight line.

[0050] According to the filter cartridge assembly of this application embodiment, the first connecting water channel 3910 and the second connecting water channel 3920 of the water channel plate 300 adopt a straight-line extension design. Water flows in these straight and smooth channels, avoiding sharp bends and cross-sectional changes common in traditional pipelines, making the water flow path the shortest and most direct. Furthermore, the water channel plate 300 with the straight-line extension of the first connecting water channel 3910 and the second connecting water channel 3920 is much less difficult to mold and manufacture than integrated filter cartridges with complex curved flow channels.

[0051] The cross-sectional shape of the first connecting waterway 3910 and the second connecting waterway 3920 can be circular, rectangular or trapezoidal.

[0052] During installation, the first filter element 100 is connected to the plate body 310 through the pre-inlet water interface 320, the post-inlet water interface 340, the post-outlet water interface 350 and the pre-outlet water interface 330, and the second filter element 200 is connected to the plate body 310 through the wastewater interface 380, the pure water interface 370 and the incoming water interface 360, thereby forming an integrated filter element assembly.

[0053] Understandably, the plate 310 is provided with a first set of interfaces for connecting the first filter element 100. The pre-inlet interface 320 is used to receive water to be filtered. The pre-outlet interface 330 is used to draw out the water that has undergone preliminary treatment by the first filter element 100. The post-inlet interface 340 is used to receive pure water that has been treated and returned from the second filter element 200. The post-outlet interface 350 is used to output the final filtered product water. The plate 310 is also provided with a second set of interfaces for connecting the second filter element 200. The incoming water interface 360 ​​is used to receive the pre-filtered water from the first filter element 100. The pure water interface 370 is used to output the water produced by the second filter element 200. The wastewater interface 380 is used to discharge the wastewater produced by the second filter element 200. The first connecting water passage 3910 is connected at both ends to the pre-outlet interface 330 and the incoming water interface 360, respectively. The second connecting water passage 3920 is connected at both ends to the pure water interface 370 and the post-inlet interface 340, respectively.

[0054] The first connecting water passage 3910 and the second connecting water passage 3920 have a constant circular cross-section, and their inner diameter can range from 3 mm to 6 mm. The first connecting water passage 3910 and the second connecting water passage 3920 can be arranged in parallel or at an angle. The following description mainly uses the parallel arrangement of the first connecting water passage 3910 and the second connecting water passage 3920 as an example.

[0055] The water flow path in this application is as follows: The water to be filtered enters the first filter element 100 from the pre-filter inlet 320 for treatment, then leaves the first filter element 100 and reaches the pre-filter outlet 330. The water reaching the pre-filter outlet 330 passes through the first connecting water passage 3910 to the inlet water interface 360, and enters the second filter element 200 for further treatment. The treated wastewater is discharged from the wastewater interface 380, and the treated water is output from the pure water interface 370 and reaches the post-filter inlet 340 through the second connecting water passage 3920. After being treated again by the first filter element 100, the filtered water is output from the post-filter outlet 350. For details, please refer to [reference needed]. Figures 5 to 12 .

[0056] Understandably, by integrating the complex internal connecting pipes into one unit through the water circuit board 300, multiple independent pipe joints and winding hoses are eliminated, making the filter element assembly structure very compact, greatly reducing potential leakage points and improving reliability.

[0057] The straight water channel design simplifies the mold design and manufacturing of the water channel plate 300. The mold core can utilize a simple straight core-pulling structure, greatly reducing mold complexity and manufacturing costs while improving product molding consistency and yield, making it suitable for mass production.

[0058] According to one embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The plate 310 has a first core-pulling opening 311 and a second core-pulling opening 312. The first core-pulling opening 311 is located in the extension direction of the first connecting water channel 3910, and the second core-pulling opening 312 is located in the extension direction of the second connecting water channel 3920.

[0059] During manufacturing, the mold core can be inserted through the first core-pulling opening 311 to form the first connecting water channel 3910 with a smooth inner wall. After completion, the core is pulled out in a straight line, thus ensuring the precise dimensions and smoothness of the water channel. The second connecting water channel 3920 is formed in the same way through the core corresponding to the second core-pulling opening 312. This straight-line core-pulling method greatly simplifies the mold structure and reduces manufacturing difficulty and cost.

[0060] According to one embodiment of this application, the first connecting water passage 3910 and the second connecting water passage 3920 are parallel, and the first core-pulling opening 311 and the second core-pulling opening 312 are located on the same side of the plate 310.

[0061] The first core-pulling opening 311 and the second core-pulling opening 312 are located on the same side, which greatly simplifies the design of the injection mold. The mold can perform core-pulling from the same side of the plate 310. The simplified mold structure and coordinated core-pulling action help shorten the injection molding cycle and improve production efficiency. In addition, the parallel water channel layout makes the internal structure of the plate 310 more regular and compact, and the stress distribution more uniform.

[0062] According to one embodiment of this application, the pre-inlet water inlet 320, the rear inlet water inlet 340, the rear outlet water inlet 350 and the pre-outlet water inlet 330 are distributed along a first straight line, and the wastewater inlet 380, the pure water inlet 370 and the incoming water inlet 360 are distributed along a second straight line, with the first straight line and the second straight line being parallel.

[0063] The parallel straight-line interface layout provides the conditions for planning the shortest path for internal water channels, thereby further shortening the overall water flow path. Furthermore, constraining all functional interfaces to two parallel straight lines minimizes dimensional waste in ineffective directions on the water channel board 300. This makes the overall structure of the board 310 very compact and smaller, saving valuable installation space within the entire unit.

[0064] According to one embodiment of this application, the opening size of the front water inlet 320 and the front water outlet 330 is larger than the opening size of the rear water inlet 340 and the rear water outlet 350.

[0065] Understandably, in the filter assembly's workflow, the water flowing through the "pre-filter inlet 320" and "pre-filter outlet 330" is untreated source water or water that has only undergone preliminary filtration. At this point, the water flow is at its maximum and may contain a small amount of suspended particles; a larger outlet size ensures sufficient pre-treatment flow and reduces the risk of clogging. The water flowing through the "post-filter inlet 340" and "post-filter outlet 350" is pure water that has already been pre-treated by the first filter element 100 and processed by the second filter element 200, and its production volume is relatively small. Therefore, a smaller size is configured for the post-filter outlet. This arrangement further reduces the space occupied by the first filter element 100 and the water circuit board 300.

[0066] Furthermore, the physical differences in interface dimensions provide clear guidance for the installation of the first filter element 100. During assembly, operators can intuitively connect the corresponding parts according to the interface size, effectively preventing errors such as reversing the inlet and outlet ports 158, and improving the accuracy and reliability of the installation.

[0067] According to one embodiment of this application, the opening size of the front water inlet 320 is larger than the opening size of the front water outlet 330, and the opening size of the rear water inlet 340 is larger than the opening size of the rear water outlet 350.

[0068] Understandably, the inlet water port 360 needs to receive all the pretreated water from the first filter element 100, hence its larger size; while the pure water port 370 only outputs the separated pure water, hence its smaller size. This differentiated size design ensures that the water flow rate at each port is within a reasonable range, allowing the size of the water circuit board 300 and the corresponding first filter element 100 and second filter element 200 to be reasonably reduced.

[0069] During installation, operators can clearly align the larger inlet on the filter element with the larger pre-inlet port 320 on the water circuit board 300, and align the smaller outlet 158 ​​on the filter element with the smaller pre-outlet port 330 on the water circuit board 300. This provides a double guarantee against errors in the correct installation of the first filter element 100, further improving the accuracy and reliability of the assembly.

[0070] According to one embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The first filter element 100 is provided with four first water inlet pipes 110. The first water inlet pipes 110 are configured one-to-one with the front water inlet port 320, the rear water inlet port 340, the rear water outlet port 350 and the front water outlet port 330 on the water circuit board 300. The outer wall of the first water inlet pipe 110 is provided with a first annular sealing groove 115, which is used to install the first annular ring 116.

[0071] It is understood that the first annular sealing groove 115 is used to embed the first annular ring 116 (e.g., an O-ring). When the first filter element 100 is installed on the water circuit board 300, a reliable water seal can be formed radially by inserting the first water inlet pipe 110 into the corresponding interface and compressing the first annular ring 116 placed in the first annular sealing groove 115.

[0072] In one embodiment, the first water inlet pipes 110 are all symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the first filter element 100.

[0073] In one embodiment, the number of first annular sealing grooves 115 on each first water inlet pipe 110 is multiple, and multiple first annular rings 116 are installed on the first water inlet pipe 110 to increase the sealing effect.

[0074] To adapt to potential high-pressure operating environments and ensure a foolproof sealing effect, multiple (e.g., two) first annular sealing grooves 115 can be provided on each first water inlet pipe 110, and multiple first annular rings 116 can be installed accordingly. This multi-seal design constitutes a series sealing system. When one sealing ring fails due to unforeseen circumstances, the subsequent sealing rings can still provide an effective seal, thereby greatly improving the reliability of the connection and reducing the risk of leakage. Multiple sealing rings also increase the sealing contact area, making the joint more resistant to vibration and loosening.

[0075] According to one embodiment of this application, the first filter element 100 includes a first filter component 130 and a second filter component 140. The first water inlet pipe 110 includes a front water inlet pipe 111, a rear water inlet pipe 113, a rear water outlet pipe 114, and a front water outlet pipe 112, which are respectively configured to correspond one-to-one with the front water inlet port 320, the rear water inlet port 340, the rear water outlet port 350, and the front water outlet port 330 on the water circuit board 300. The first filter element 100 has a first chamber 101 and a second chamber 102 inside, and the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102 are connected by... The first partition assembly 150 separates the first chamber 101 into a pre-inlet pipe 111 and a pre-outlet pipe 112, and the second chamber 102 into a rear inlet pipe 113 and a rear outlet pipe 114. The first filter component 130 is disposed in the first chamber 101 and, together with the first partition assembly 150, separates the first chamber 101 into a pre-inlet channel 103 and a pre-outlet channel 104. The second filter component 140 is disposed in the second chamber 102 and, together with the first partition assembly 150, separates the second chamber 102 into a rear inlet channel 105 and a rear outlet channel 106.

[0076] Understandably, the source water to be filtered enters the pre-inlet channel 103 of the first chamber 101 through the pre-inlet pipe 111, and then passes through the first filter element 130 under water pressure for preliminary filtration. The filtered water enters the pre-outlet channel 104, and finally flows out of the first filter element 100 through the pre-outlet pipe 112, and is sent to the second filter element 200.

[0077] The purified water returning from the second filter element 200 enters the post-inlet channel 105 of the second chamber 102 through the post-inlet pipe 113, then passes through the second filter element 140 for final taste adjustment. The adjusted purified water enters the post-outlet channel 106 and is finally output through the post-outlet pipe 114 to supply the user.

[0078] The first filter element 130 can be used to filter large particles such as mud, sand, and rust. The second filter element 140 can be used to absorb odors and improve taste.

[0079] By integrating separate first and second filter components 130 within a single filter housing, pretreatment and posttreatment functions are combined. This greatly simplifies external piping connections and makes the entire filter assembly structure very compact.

[0080] In addition, the physical separation achieved by the first partition component 150 ensures that the untreated source water (in the first chamber 101) is completely isolated from the purified water (in the second chamber 102), avoiding the risk of cross-contamination and ensuring the purity and safety of the final water quality.

[0081] According to one embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 15 The distance between the central axis of the pre-inlet pipe 111 and the central axis of the second water passage 156 of the pre-inlet channel 103 is h2, and the distance between the central axis of the pre-outlet pipe 112 and the central axis of the third water passage 157 of the pre-outlet channel 104 is h3, wherein h2 <h3。

[0082] In one embodiment, h2 is 0mm-0.5mm.

[0083] According to one embodiment of this application, h3 is 0mm-0.5mm.

[0084] Specifically, within the first chamber 101 of the first filter element 100, the distance between the central axis of the pre-inlet pipe 111 and the central axis of the second water passage 156 of the pre-inlet channel 103 is defined as h2. This offset distance h2 is strictly controlled within a very small range. When water flows from the pre-inlet port 320 of the water circuit board 300 through the pre-inlet pipe 111 into the pre-inlet channel 103, its flow direction does not need to undergo sharp turns or significant flow direction adjustments. This minimizes turbulence, eddies, and corresponding energy losses caused by abrupt changes in flow direction and impact with the pipe wall.

[0085] Similarly, the distance between the central axis of the pre-outlet pipe 112 and the central axis of the third water passage 157 of the pre-outlet channel 104 is defined as h3. This offset distance h3 is strictly controlled within a very small range. When the water flows from the pre-outlet channel 104 of the first filter element 100 to the pre-outlet port 330 of the water circuit board 300, its flow direction does not need to undergo sharp turns or significant flow direction adjustments. This minimizes turbulence, eddies, and corresponding energy losses caused by abrupt changes in flow direction and impact with the pipe wall.

[0086] Understandably, during the operation of the filter element, the water flowing through the pre-filter inlet pipe 111 is unfiltered water from the external pipe network, which has higher pressure and the largest flow rate. Setting h2 to a smaller value ensures that the high-pressure, high-flow water can directly enter the pre-filter inlet channel 103 with minimal directional changes and impact losses, thereby minimizing the flow resistance and noise in the inlet section and laying the foundation for the efficient operation of the entire system.

[0087] In contrast, the water flowing through the pre-filter outlet pipe 112 has already undergone pretreatment by the first filter element, has experienced some pressure loss, and has a stable flow rate. In this case, the moderate tolerance h3 will be appropriately relaxed (i.e., allowed to be slightly greater than h2), which has a relatively small impact on the overall flow resistance.

[0088] According to one embodiment of this application, the distance between the central axis of the rear inlet pipe 113 and the central axis of the first water passage 155 of the rear inlet channel 105 is h1, and the distance between the central axis of the rear outlet pipe 114 and the central axis of the outlet 158 ​​of the rear outlet channel 106 is h4, wherein h1 <h4。

[0089] In one embodiment, h1 is 0mm-1mm.

[0090] According to one embodiment of this application, h4 is 0mm-1mm.

[0091] It can be understood that the pure water flowing through the rear water inlet pipe 113 has been precisely treated by the reverse osmosis membrane, and the final purified water that has completed all treatment processes flows out of the rear water outlet pipe 114. The relationship of h1 < h4 is the same as the principle of h2 < h3 in the front flow channel. The distance between the central axis of the rear water inlet pipe 113 at the water inlet and the rear water inlet flow channel 105 is controlled within a small range, and the tolerance of the distance between the central axis of the rear water outlet pipe 114 at the water outlet and the central axis of the water outlet 158 of the rear water outlet flow channel 106 is appropriately relaxed, so as to minimize the flow resistance and noise in the water inlet section.

[0092] Specifically, the first water passing gap 155 and the water outlet 158 of the water outlet flow channel are arranged at a position close to the middle of the first filter element 100. In the last section of the path where the pure water flows back from the water circuit board 300 to the first filter element 100 for post-treatment, it can also flow with the smallest turning and resistance. From the rear water inlet pipe 113 to the rear water inlet flow channel 105, then to the rear water outlet flow channel 106 and output from the rear water outlet pipe 114, the whole process is the same as the front process, avoiding sharp turns and flow dead zones.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present application, the second filter element 200 is provided with three second water connection pipes 210. The second water connection pipes 210 are arranged in one-to-one correspondence with the waste water interface 380, the pure water interface 370 and the incoming water interface 360 on the water circuit board 300. The outer wall of the second water connection pipe 210 is provided with a second annular sealing groove 214, and the second annular sealing groove 214 is used for installing a second annular ring 215.

[0094] In one embodiment, the second water connection pipes 210 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the second filter element 200.

[0095] It can be understood that the second annular sealing groove 214 is used for embedding the second annular ring 215 (such as an O-ring). When the second filter element 200 is installed on the water circuit board 300, by inserting the second water connection pipe 210 into the corresponding interface and compressing the second annular ring 215 placed in the second annular sealing groove 214, a reliable water seal can be formed in the radial direction.

[0096] In one embodiment, the number of the second annular sealing grooves 214 on each second water connection pipe 210 is multiple, and multiple second annular rings 215 are installed on the second water connection pipe 210 to increase the sealing effect.

[0097] To adapt to potential high-pressure operating environments and ensure a foolproof sealing effect, multiple (e.g., two) second annular sealing grooves 214 can be provided on each second water inlet pipe 210, and multiple second annular rings 215 can be installed accordingly. This multi-seal design constitutes a series sealing system. When one sealing ring fails due to unforeseen circumstances, the subsequent sealing rings can still provide an effective seal, thereby greatly improving the reliability of the connection and reducing the risk of leakage. Multiple sealing rings also increase the sealing contact area, making the joint more resistant to vibration and loosening.

[0098] According to one embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 3 The second filter element 200 includes a third filter component 220. The second water inlet pipe 210 includes a wastewater pipe 213, a pure water pipe 212, and a water inlet pipe 211. The wastewater pipe 213, pure water pipe 212, and water inlet pipe 211 are respectively configured to correspond one-to-one with the wastewater interface 380, pure water interface 370, and water inlet 360 on the water circuit board 300. The second filter element 200 has a third chamber 201 inside, and the third chamber 201 is connected to the third filter component 220. The second partition component 230 is divided into a wastewater channel 202, a pure water channel 203, and a water inlet channel 204. The wastewater channel 202 is connected to the wastewater pipe 213, the pure water channel 203 is connected to the pure water pipe 212, and the water inlet channel 204 is connected to the water inlet pipe 211. The water inlet channel 204 is located on the outside of the second filter element 200, the pure water channel 203 is located on the inside of the second filter element 200, and the wastewater channel 202 is located between the water inlet channel 204 and the pure water channel 203.

[0099] Within the third chamber 201, the third chamber 201 is divided into three isolated flow channels by the synergistic action of the third filter element 220 and a second spacer assembly 230: a wastewater flow channel 202, a pure water flow channel 203, and an incoming water flow channel 204. The incoming water flow channel 204 is located outside the second filter element 200, specifically in the annular space between the outer wall of the third filter element 220 and the inner wall of the filter element housing. The incoming water flow channel 204 communicates with the incoming water pipe 211 and is used to receive pretreated water from the first filter element 100. The pure water flow channel 203 is located inside the second filter element 200 and is a central tube channel penetrating the interior of the third filter element 220. The pure water flow channel 203 communicates with the pure water pipe 212 and is used to collect and discharge the pure water that has permeated through the membrane. The wastewater flow channel 202 is located between the incoming water flow channel 204 and the pure water flow channel 203, specifically in the channel between the inlet side and the concentrate side of the third filter element 220. This channel is connected to wastewater pipe 213 and is used to discharge concentrated wastewater that has not passed through the membrane.

[0100] The workflow is as follows: Pretreated water from the first filter element 100 enters the water inlet channel 204 of the second filter element 200 through the water inlet interface 360 ​​of the water circuit board 300 and the water inlet pipe 211. Driven by water pressure, some water molecules pass through the third filter element 220 and enter the internal pure water channel 203, becoming pure water, and then flow out through the pure water pipe 212. The other part of the water, carrying a large amount of intercepted impurities, flows into the wastewater channel 202 as wastewater and is finally discharged through the wastewater pipe 213.

[0101] In one embodiment, the third filter element 220 is an RO membrane.

[0102] According to one embodiment of this application, refer to Figure 8 The distance between the central axis of the water inlet pipe 211 and the central axis of the water inlet of the water inlet channel 204 is h5, where h5 is 0mm-0.5mm.

[0103] Specifically, the distance between the central axis of the water inlet pipe 211 and the central axis of the water inlet of the water inlet channel 204 is defined as h5. This offset distance h5 controls the alignment tolerance h5 between the water inlet and the internal channel to within 0.5mm, which can ensure that when the high-pressure water flows from the water circuit board 300 through the water inlet pipe 211 into the water inlet channel 204 of the second filter element 200, it hardly needs to change direction and speed, and enters smoothly along the channel.

[0104] According to one embodiment of this application, the length of the front water inlet 320 is smaller than the lengths of the rear water inlet 340, the rear water outlet 350, and the front water outlet 330. Furthermore, the length of the front water outlet 330 is smaller than the lengths of the rear water inlet 340 and the rear water outlet 350. Even further, the length of the rear water inlet 340 is smaller than the length of the rear water outlet 350.

[0105] In one embodiment, the front inlet port 320 is the shortest, followed by the front outlet port 330, then the rear inlet port 340, and finally the rear outlet port 350. Specifically, the lengths of the ports on the water circuit board 300 exhibit a stepped increasing relationship based on water quality levels, specifically: the front inlet port 320 has the smallest length; the front outlet port 330 has a longer length than the front inlet port 320 but shorter than the rear inlet port 340; the rear inlet port 340 has a longer length than the front outlet port 330 but shorter than the rear outlet port 350; and the rear outlet port 350 has the largest length.

[0106] Understandably, the water flowing from the post-filter outlet 350 is the final purified water, having undergone the entire filtration process and possessing the best water quality. Designing it to be the longest means that the post-filter outlet pipe 114 on the first filter cartridge 100 is also inserted the deepest. In extreme cases, if a sealing ring at a certain interface fails due to aging, causing a leak, the "height difference" created by the length difference will cause leaking water from the lower-quality pre-filter outlet 158 ​​or post-filter inlet to seep out from the shorter outer opening of its own pipe, making it difficult for it to flow back into the deepest, most well-protected post-filter outlet 158. This provides the highest level of safety isolation for the final purified water, effectively preventing low-quality water from mixing with high-quality purified water and ensuring the absolute safety of the output water quality.

[0107] Similarly, the pre-filter inlet 320 receives the lowest quality raw water, so it is designed to be the shortest possible. Even if a leak occurs, the leaked raw water will preferentially drain outwards due to the "height difference," making it difficult for it to spread laterally along the water circuit board 300 to contaminate higher-positioned inlets such as the post-filter inlet. The post-filter inlet 340 receives pure water treated by the RO membrane, which is of better quality than the pre-filter but has not yet undergone post-filter improvement; therefore, its length falls between the pre-filter outlet 330 and the final post-filter outlet 350. This design physically creates a water quality safety level hierarchy, separating water flow channels of different qualities.

[0108] Furthermore, since the first filter element 100 performs both pre-treatment and post-treatment functions, its internal flow channels must be strictly isolated. If the interfaces are completely identical, it is extremely easy to incorrectly connect the inlet pipe to the outlet 158 ​​during installation, causing untreated cold water and purified pure water to mix in the external piping of the filter element, severely contaminating the final effluent water quality. This design, through the difference in interface lengths, ensures that the water inlet pipe that mates with the first filter element 100's end cap must also be of a corresponding stepped length. This means that if the installation direction is incorrect, a water inlet pipe of mismatched length will not be able to be inserted into the corresponding interface, thus physically eliminating the possibility of incorrect connection and fundamentally ensuring drinking water safety.

[0109] During installation, the filter cartridge can only be installed smoothly if all water inlets are perfectly aligned with the corresponding length interfaces. This significantly reduces the risk of installation failures or equipment damage caused by human error, and greatly improves the convenience and reliability of assembly.

[0110] According to a filter element assembly proposed in this application, refer to... Figure 2 , Figures 13 to 16The filter assembly includes: a first filter element 100, which includes a housing 120, a first water inlet pipe 110, a first filter element 130, and a second filter element 140; the housing 120 has a first chamber 101 and a second chamber 102, which are separated by a first spacer assembly 150; the first water inlet pipe 110 includes a front inlet pipe 111 and a front outlet pipe 112 communicating with the first chamber 101, and a rear inlet pipe 113 and a rear outlet pipe 114 communicating with the second chamber 102; the first filter element 130 is disposed in the first chamber 101 and is separated from the first spacer assembly 140. The first chamber 101 is divided into a pre-inlet channel 103 and a pre-outlet channel 104. The second filter component 140 is disposed in the second chamber 102 and, together with the first partition assembly 150, divides the second chamber 102 into a post-inlet channel 105 and a post-outlet channel 106. The first partition assembly 150 includes a first partition 1510, which is a tubular structure disposed in the internal space of the first filter component 130, separating the pre-outlet channel 104 from the second chamber 102. The outer diameter of the first partition 1510 is d1, which is 18mm-20mm, and the wall thickness is d2, which is 1.7mm-2.2mm.

[0111] To optimize the internal flow space while ensuring structural strength and effective sealing, the first spacer 1510 is designed with specific structural dimensions. Specifically, the outer diameter d1 of the first spacer 1510 is limited to the range of 18 mm to 20 mm, while its wall thickness d2 is limited to the range of 1.7 mm to 2.2 mm. The outer diameter d1 of 18 mm to 20 mm ensures sufficient structural rigidity for the first spacer 1510, providing stable support when mating with the inner wall of the filter element and providing the necessary mounting base for the seal at the connection. The wall thickness d2, controlled between 1.7 mm and 2.2 mm, achieves a good balance between strength and space utilization. This thickness is sufficient to withstand the pressure difference that may exist inside and outside the filter element without deformation, while avoiding excessive occupation of the limited internal space of the filter element, thereby maximizing the smooth flow of water.

[0112] In one embodiment, the outer casing 120 is provided with a baffle structure, which includes a third baffle structure 123 and a first baffle structure 121. A first water passage gap 155 is provided between the third baffle structure 123 and the first partition 1510. The first water passage gap 155 connects the rear water inlet channel 105 and the rear water inlet pipe 113. The first partition 1510 is provided with a first annular groove 1511 on the side facing the first baffle structure 121. The first annular groove 1511 is used to install a first sealing ring 1512. The inner diameter of the first sealing ring 1512 is d3, which is 14mm-16mm, and the wire diameter is d4, which is 1mm-2mm.

[0113] The inner diameter of the first sealing ring 1512 is 14mm-16mm, matching the outer diameter d1 of the first spacer 1510. When the first sealing ring 1512 is pressed into the first annular groove 1511 and installed in place, it undergoes appropriate radial compression deformation, thereby forming a tight sealing barrier between the outer wall of the first spacer 1510 and the inner wall of the first baffle structure 121. This barrier strictly isolates the rear water inlet area from the first chamber 101. If the wire diameter of the first sealing ring 1512 is too small, it may result in insufficient compression and unreliable sealing; if the wire diameter is too large, it will occupy too much space. The first wire diameter of 1mm-2mm in this application provides ideal compression ratio and contact stress, ensuring sealing stability under long-term use.

[0114] A certain gap is maintained between the first partition 1510 and the third baffle structure 123, forming a first water passage gap 155. The first water passage gap 155 allows water from the rear water inlet pipe 113 to flow smoothly into the rear water inlet channel 105 defined by the second filter component 140.

[0115] In one embodiment, the first spacer assembly 150 includes a second spacer 1520, a third spacer 1530 and a fourth spacer 1540. The second spacer 1520 is disposed at the first end of the first filter component 130. A second water passage gap 156 is provided between the second spacer 1520 and the housing 120. The second water passage gap 156 connects the pre-inlet water channel 103 and the pre-inlet water pipe 111.

[0116] The second partition 1520 is disposed at the first end of the first filter component 130 facing the first water inlet pipe 110. The second partition 1520 and the inner wall of the filter element housing 120 maintain a certain gap, forming a second water passage gap 156. The water flow from the pre-inlet pipe 111 passes through the second water passage gap 156 and smoothly enters the pre-inlet channel 103 formed by the first filter component 130 and the housing 120, and then penetrates the first filter component 130 to complete the preliminary filtration.

[0117] The third partition 1530 is disposed between the first filter element 130 and the second filter element 140, and works in conjunction with the first partition 1510 and the fourth partition 1540 to ensure the separation of the first chamber 101 and the second chamber 102.

[0118] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 17 The baffle structure includes a second baffle structure 122. The second spacer 1520 has a second annular groove 1521 on the side facing the second baffle structure 122. The second annular groove 1521 is used to install the second sealing ring 1522. The inner diameter of the second sealing ring 1522 is d5, which is 23mm-25mm, and the wire diameter is d6, which is 1.5mm-3mm.

[0119] When the inner diameter d5 of the second sealing ring 1522 is 23-25 ​​mm, it can form a good fit with the corresponding mounting part of the second spacer 1520. After the filter element is assembled, the sealing ring is compressed between the second spacer 1520 and the second baffle structure 122, forming an effective sealing barrier. A wire diameter d6 ranging from 1.5 mm to 3 mm provides sufficient elastic compression to maintain a stable sealing contact pressure under long-term use and water pressure fluctuations.

[0120] In one embodiment, a third water passage 157 is provided between the second partition 1520 and the first baffle structure 121. The third water passage 157 connects the pre-outlet water channel 104 and the pre-outlet water pipe 112. The third water passage 157 smoothly guides the water that has been processed by the first filter element 130 and collected in the pre-outlet water channel 104 to the pre-outlet water pipe 112, thereby flowing out of the first filter element 100 and into the subsequent processing unit.

[0121] In one embodiment, the third partition 1530 is disposed inside the first partition 1510. The third partition 1530 is a tubular structure disposed in the internal space of the first partition 1510, isolating part of the rear water outlet channel 106 and part of the rear water inlet channel 105. Part of the rear water outlet channel 106 is disposed inside the third partition 1530, and part of the rear water inlet channel 105 is disposed outside the third partition 1530. Another part of the rear water outlet channel 106 and another part of the rear water inlet channel 105 are separated by the second filter component 140. Another part of the rear water outlet channel 106 is disposed inside the second filter component 140, and another part of the rear water inlet channel 105 is disposed outside the second filter component 140.

[0122] The third partition 1530 further divides the space already separated by the first partition 1510. It physically isolates a portion of the post-outlet channel 106 from a portion of the post-inlet channel 105. A portion of the post-outlet channel 106 is located within the interior space of the third partition 1530. This means that purified water treated by the second filter element 140 collects in the channel inside the third partition 1530. Correspondingly, a portion of the post-inlet channel 105 is located outside the third partition 1530 and simultaneously within the interior space of the first partition 1510. This ensures that water flowing in from the post-inlet pipe 113 exists within the annular channel between the first partition 1510 and the third partition 1530.

[0123] Another portion of the post-outlet channel 106 is located inside the second filter element 140, and another portion of the post-inlet channel 105 is located outside the second filter element 140. These two channels are separated by the filter medium of the second filter element 140 itself. Water must penetrate the second filter element 140 to enter the post-outlet channel 106 from the post-inlet channel 105.

[0124] Through the nested design of the third partition 1530 placed within the first partition 1510, two independent channels, the rear water inlet channel 105 and the rear water outlet channel 106, are successfully arranged side by side in an extremely limited space.

[0125] In one embodiment, the baffle structure includes a third baffle structure 123. The third spacer 1530 has a third annular groove 1531 on the side facing the third baffle structure 123. The third annular groove 1531 is used to install a third sealing ring 1532. The inner diameter of the third sealing ring 1532 is d7, which is 6mm-8mm, and the wire diameter is d8, which is 1.5mm-3mm.

[0126] The third sealing ring 1532 is used for the innermost flow channel isolation inside the first filter element 100. Its inner diameter d7 is 6-8 mm, matching the third annular groove 1531, enabling effective radial or end-face sealing within extremely limited space. A wire diameter d8 of 1.5 mm to 3 mm provides sufficient elastic deformation to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and wear during long-term use, ensuring stable sealing contact pressure even under system pressure fluctuations.

[0127] In one embodiment, the number of first sealing rings 1512 is two.

[0128] In one embodiment, the number of second sealing rings 1522 is one.

[0129] In one embodiment, the number of third sealing rings 1532 is one.

[0130] In one embodiment, refer to Figure 18 and Figure 19 The fourth partition 1540 is located outside the second filter component 140, separating the front water inlet channel 103 from the rear water inlet channel 105.

[0131] The fourth partition 1540 helps define the physical boundary of the post-inlet water channel 105 of the second chamber 102, and together with the first partition 1510, the filter housing 120, etc., forms a closed annular flow channel space, so that the pure water flowing in from the post-inlet water pipe 113 can be guided and evenly passed through the entire outer surface of the second filter component 140, ensuring the effect of post-treatment.

[0132] In one embodiment, the fourth spacer 1540 and the first spacer 1510 are either interference-fitted or transition-fitted.

[0133] In one embodiment, the fourth spacer 1540 is a tubular structure, with a minimum outer diameter of d9 (42mm-50mm) and a maximum wall thickness of d10 (2mm-2.6mm).

[0134] The minimum outer diameter d9 is 42mm to 50mm. This size range ensures that the fourth spacer 1540 has sufficient structural rigidity and strength to be stably installed within the housing 120 and to maintain its shape without deformation when subjected to internal water pressure and possible assembly stress. The maximum pipe wall thickness d10 is controlled between 2mm and 2.6mm, which ensures that the tubular structure has sufficient strength and pressure resistance; at the same time, it prevents problems such as increased size, material waste, and increased cost caused by excessive wall thickness.

[0135] In one embodiment, the first spacer assembly 150 includes a fifth spacer 1590 disposed at a second end of the second filter element 140. The fifth spacer 1590 is used to prevent water from accidentally leaking from the second end of the second filter element 140.

[0136] In one embodiment, the thickness of the third baffle structure 123 is smaller than the thickness of the first baffle structure 121 and the second baffle structure 122.

[0137] Understandably, the main function of the third baffle structure 123 is to cooperate with the first partition 1510 to form the first water passage gap 155, and to form the outlet 158 ​​of the rear water outlet channel 106. The first water passage gap 155 is the key inlet for the rear water inlet to reach the outer channel of the second filter component 140. While ensuring structural strength, appropriately reducing the thickness of the third baffle structure 123 can effectively increase the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the water passage gap, and also increase the opening area of ​​the outlet 158 ​​of the rear water outlet channel 106, ensuring smooth water flow from the rear water inlet.

[0138] In one embodiment, the length of the third baffle structure 123 is smaller than the length of the first baffle structure 121 and the second baffle structure 122.

[0139] Understandably, the shorter third baffle structure 123 reduces its intrusion into the water flow space. Combined with the previous smaller thickness, this provides a wider and smoother channel for the water flowing through the first water passage 155. This helps reduce turbulence, allowing the water to turn more smoothly and enter the rear inlet channel 105. In one embodiment, refer to Figure 20The outer diameter of the outer casing 120 is d11, which is 45mm-60mm. This ensures that the internal volume of the outer casing 120 is sufficient to accommodate the first filter element 130 and the second filter element 140, and provides ample space for arranging complex internal flow channels and spacer components, thereby ensuring that the filter element has the necessary filtration capacity. At the same time, this outer diameter also makes the overall structure of the filter element assembly compact, facilitating its arrangement in the limited installation space of equipment such as water purifiers, achieving a good balance between large filtration capacity and small installation size.

[0140] In one embodiment, the pre-inlet pipe 111, the post-inlet pipe 113, the post-outlet pipe 114, and the pre-outlet pipe 112 are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the first filter element.

[0141] A water channel board 300 according to an embodiment of this application includes: The plate body 310 is provided with a pre-inlet water inlet 320, a post-inlet water inlet 340, a post-outlet water inlet 350 and a pre-outlet water inlet 330 for connecting the first filter element 100; the plate body 310 is provided with a wastewater inlet 380, a pure water inlet 370 and a feed water inlet 360 for connecting the second filter element 200; the plate body 310 is provided with a first connecting water passage 3910 and a second connecting water passage 3920, the feed water inlet 360 and the pre-outlet water inlet 330 are connected through the first connecting water passage 3910, and the pure water inlet 370 and the post-inlet water inlet 340 are connected through the second connecting water passage 3920; the first connecting water passage 3910 and the second connecting water passage 3920 are both distributed along a straight line.

[0142] Understandably, the water circuit board 300 includes a pre-inlet 320, a post-inlet 340, a post-outlet 350, and a pre-outlet 330 for connecting the first filter element 100, and a wastewater interface 380, a pure water interface 370, and a water inlet 360 for connecting the second filter element 200, ensuring accurate connection with the first filter element 100 and the second filter element 200.

[0143] An external water source is connected to the pre-filter inlet 320, enters the first filter cartridge 100 for pre-treatment, and then flows out through the pre-filter outlet 330. It then flows directly to the inlet 360 via the first straight connecting water path 3910, and enters the second filter cartridge 200 for core purification. The resulting pure water flows out from the pure water outlet 370, flows directly to the post-filter inlet 340 via the second straight connecting water path 3920, returns to the first filter cartridge 100 for post-treatment, and finally, the purified water is output from the post-filter outlet 350. Wastewater is discharged directly from the wastewater outlet 380.

[0144] Understandably, integrating all internal connecting pipes into a single plate 310 completely replaces the complex and lengthy external hoses and fittings, making the filter assembly structure extremely compact, significantly reducing potential leakage points, and improving system reliability.

[0145] Understandably, molds with straight runners are very easy to manufacture, and can be made using simple straight core-pulling mechanisms, which greatly reduces the complexity of the mold, the difficulty of processing, and the manufacturing cost. At the same time, it improves the consistency of product molding and production efficiency, making it particularly suitable for large-scale production.

[0146] An ice maker according to an embodiment of this application includes: an ice-making device body and the above-mentioned filter element assembly.

[0147] The main body of the ice-making equipment may include an outer casing, an internal refrigeration system, a water supply system, a control circuit, and an ice-making mechanism. The filter element assembly is connected to and built into the water supply pipeline of the ice maker through an interface on its water circuit board 300. Specifically, the external water source first enters the front water inlet 320 of the filter element assembly's water circuit board 300, flows through the filter element assembly for purification, and the resulting purified water flows out from the rear water outlet 350 of the water circuit board 300. Then, it is guided through the pipeline to the ice-making water inlet of the main body of the ice-making equipment to provide water for the ice-making process.

[0148] By integrating high-performance filter components, impurities, odors, harmful minerals, and microorganisms in the source water are thoroughly removed, ensuring that the ice cubes made are clear, sterile, and odorless from the source, thus avoiding ice product contamination caused by water quality issues.

[0149] Thanks to the straight flow channel and highly integrated design of the water circuit board 300 in the filter assembly, the compact structure makes it easy to lay out and install in the limited internal space of the ice maker.

[0150] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate this application and are not intended to limit this application. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that various combinations, modifications, or equivalent substitutions of the technical solutions of this application do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of this application and should be covered within the scope of the claims of this application.

Claims

1. A filter element assembly, characterized in that, include: The first filter element (100) includes a housing (120), a first water inlet pipe (110), a first filter element (130), and a second filter element (140). The outer casing (120) is provided with a first chamber (101) and a second chamber (102), which are separated by a spacer assembly; The first water inlet pipe (110) includes a front water inlet pipe (111) and a front water outlet pipe (112) communicating with the first chamber (101), and a rear water inlet pipe (113) and a rear water outlet pipe (114) communicating with the second chamber (102). The first filter element (130) is disposed in the first chamber (101) and, together with the partition assembly, divides the first chamber (101) into a front water inlet channel (103) and a front water outlet channel (104). The second filter element (140) is disposed in the second chamber (102) and, together with the partition assembly, divides the second chamber (102) into a rear water inlet channel (105) and a rear water outlet channel (106). The spacer assembly includes a first spacer (1510), which is a tubular structure and is disposed in the internal space of the first filter component (130) to separate the pre-outlet water channel (104) from the second chamber (102); The outer diameter of the first spacer (1510) is d1, which is 18mm-20mm, and the wall thickness is d2, which is 1.7mm-2.2mm.

2. The filter element assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spacer assembly further includes a second spacer (1520), a third spacer (1530), and a fourth spacer (1540); the outer shell (120) is provided with a baffle structure, the baffle structure including a first baffle structure (121), a second baffle structure (122), and a third baffle structure (123). The second spacer (1520) is disposed at the first end of the first filter element (130); The third partition (1530) is a tubular structure and is disposed in the internal space of the first partition (1510), which isolates part of the rear water outlet channel (106) and part of the rear water inlet channel (105). The fourth partition (1540) is located outside the second filter component (140) and separates the front water inlet channel (103) from the rear water inlet channel (105). The first spacer (1510) has a first annular groove (1511) on the side facing the first baffle structure (121), and the first annular groove (1511) is used to install the first sealing ring (1512). The second spacer (1520) has a second annular groove (1521) on the side facing the second baffle structure (122), and the second annular groove (1521) is used to install the second sealing ring (1522). The third spacer (1530) has a third annular groove (1531) on the side facing the third baffle structure (123), and the third annular groove (1531) is used to install the third sealing ring (1532). A first water passing gap (155) is provided between the third rib structure (123) and the first spacer (1510), and the first water passing gap (155) connects the rear water inlet flow channel (105) and the rear water inlet pipe (113); A second water passing gap (156) is provided between the second spacer (1520) and the housing (120), and the second water passing gap (156) connects the front water inlet flow channel (103) and the front water inlet pipe (111); A third water passing gap (157) is provided between the second spacer (1520) and the first rib structure (121), and the third water passing gap (157) connects the front water outlet flow channel (104) and the front water outlet pipe (112).

3. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The number of the first sealing rings (1512) is two; and / or, the number of the second sealing rings (1522) is one; and / or, the number of the third sealing rings (1532) is one.

4. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the first sealing ring (1512) is d3, d3 is 14 mm - 16 mm, and the wire diameter is d4, d4 is 1 mm - 2 mm; and / or, the inner diameter of the second sealing ring (1522) is d5, d5 is 23 mm - 25 mm, and the wire diameter is d6, d6 is 1.5 mm - 3 mm; and / or, the inner diameter of the third sealing ring (1532) is d7, d7 is 6 mm - 8 mm, and the wire diameter is d8, d8 is 1.5 mm - 3 mm.

5. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, An interference fit or a transition fit is provided between the fourth spacer (1540) and the first spacer (1510).

6. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The fourth spacer (1540) is a tubular structure, the minimum outer diameter of the fourth spacer (1540) is d9, d9 is 42 mm - 50 mm, and the maximum wall thickness of the tube is d10, d10 is 2 mm - 2.6 mm.

7. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The spacer assembly further includes a fifth spacer (1590), and the fifth spacer (1590) is provided at the second end of the second filtering component (140).

8. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The thickness dimension of the third rib structure (123) is smaller than the thickness dimensions of the first rib structure (121) and the second rib structure (122), and / or, the length dimension of the third rib structure (123) is smaller than the length dimensions of the first rib structure (121) and the second rib structure (122).

9. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distance between the central axis of the rear water inlet pipe (113) and the central axis of the first water passing gap (155) of the rear water inlet flow channel (105) is h1, and the distance between the central axis of the rear water outlet pipe (114) and the central axis of the water outlet (158) of the rear water outlet flow channel (106) is h4, where h1 < h4, h1 is 0 mm - 1 mm, and h4 is 0 mm - 1 mm.

10. The filter element assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distance between the central axis of the front inlet water pipe (111) and the central axis of the second water passing gap (156) of the front inlet water flow channel (103) is h2, and the distance between the central axis of the front outlet water pipe (112) and the central axis of the third water passing gap (157) of the front outlet water flow channel (104) is h3, where h2 < h3, h2 ranges from 0 mm to 0.5 mm, and h3 ranges from 0 mm to 0.5 mm.

11. The filter element assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the housing (120) is d11, and d11 ranges from 45 mm to 60 mm.

12. The filter element assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, The front inlet water pipe (111), the rear inlet water pipe (113), the rear outlet water pipe (114), and the front outlet water pipe (112) are symmetrically arranged with respect to the central axis of the first filter element (100).

13. The filter element assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that, It includes a second filter element (200) and a water circuit board (300). The water circuit board (300) includes a board body (310). The board body (310) is provided with a front inlet water interface (320), a rear inlet water interface (340), a rear outlet water interface (350), and a front outlet water interface (330) for connecting the first filter element (100); the board body (310) is provided with a waste water interface (380), a pure water interface (370), and a water inlet interface (360) for connecting the second filter element (200); the board body (310) is provided with a first communication water circuit (3910) and a second communication water circuit (3920). The water inlet interface (360) and the front outlet water interface (330) are connected through the first communication water circuit (3910), and the pure water interface (370) and the rear inlet water interface (340) are connected through the second communication water circuit (3920); both the first communication water circuit (3910) and the second communication water circuit (3920) extend linearly.

14. An ice maker, characterized in that, It includes: An ice making equipment main body; The filter element assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

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