A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust

Abstract

The utility model provides a kind of transverse filter core capable of double-angle placement exhaust, including filter core shell, RO membrane group and exhaust end cover. Raw water chamber is formed between filter core shell and RO membrane group, exhaust end cover is installed in the side far from water inlet end, is equipped with water inlet channel and pinhole, water inlet and water outlet are 90 ° angle of inclusion. No matter how filter core rotates 90 ° and is placed, water inlet and water outlet always have one in top, ensure that gas is extruded to RO membrane group from waste water outlet after pinhole or water inlet. The present application can solve the problem of gas difficulty caused by exhaust port position limitation when filter core is placed horizontally, improve the phenomenon of water delay, and realize flexible placement of filter core at double angle, improve user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a transverse filter element that can be placed at two angles for exhaust. Background Technology

[0002] Water purifiers, as essential equipment in modern homes and commercial spaces, are typically installed in concealed spaces such as under kitchen cabinets to enhance the aesthetics and space utilization of the environment. However, most water purifier filters on the market currently use a vertically placed design. This design requires moving the entire purifier when replacing the filter, which is inconvenient and can easily damage the equipment. To solve this problem, some products have begun to adopt a horizontally placed filter design, but this design brings new technical challenges. Because the water outlet of a horizontally placed filter is lower than the highest point of the filter's cross-section, gas inside the filter that is above the outlet cannot be effectively expelled, leading to air trapping. This not only causes delayed water output but also affects the user experience. Although some venting structures have been designed for horizontally placed filters, these designs generally have the limitation that the vent can only be located at the top, strictly restricting the placement direction of the filter. Once the filter is rotated 90°, the existing venting structure cannot function properly, and the problem of gas not being expelled persists. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This utility model discloses a transverse filter element that can be placed at two angles for exhaust, aiming to solve the problems mentioned above.

[0004] The present invention adopts the following solution:

[0005] A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for venting includes a filter element housing, within which an RO membrane module is disposed. A raw water chamber is formed between the inner circumference of the housing and the outer circumference of the RO membrane module. It also includes an vent end cap, through which water from the raw water chamber can enter the RO membrane module for filtration. The vent end cap has an inlet channel through which water from the raw water chamber can flow to the RO membrane module. When the vent end cap is installed inside the housing, there is a height difference between the inlet and outlet of the inlet channel. The vent end cap also has fine holes configured to communicate with the outlet of the inlet channel. When the inlet is below the outlet, gas in the raw water chamber is compressed through the fine holes to the outlet and then discharged into the RO membrane module. When the inlet is above the outlet, gas in the raw water chamber is compressed through the inlet to the outlet and then discharged into the RO membrane module.

[0006] In this embodiment of the present invention, the exhaust end cap is disposed on the side of the RO membrane assembly away from the water inlet end of the filter element; the exhaust end cap includes a sheet body, one end face of the sheet body is adapted to the RO membrane assembly, the other end face of the sheet body is provided with a water inlet channel, and a notch that can form a water outlet is disposed on the sheet body located on the peripheral edge, the notch being able to connect the two end faces of the sheet body.

[0007] In this embodiment of the present invention, a partition is disposed on the other end face of the sheet body. The partition is located on the outer periphery of the notch. Another notch that can form a water inlet is disposed on the partition. A cover plate is also disposed on the partition. The cover plate and the partition form the water inlet channel. The fine hole is disposed on the cover plate.

[0008] In this embodiment of the present invention, the exhaust end cap is further provided with an annular body, which is adapted to and connected to one end face of the sheet body, and the annular body can be sleeved on the outer periphery of the RO membrane assembly.

[0009] In this embodiment of the utility model, the outer periphery of the exhaust end cap is provided with ribs, and the ribs are configured to abut against the inner periphery of the original water chamber.

[0010] In this embodiment of the invention, in the original water chamber, the lowest height at which fluid can flow through the fine holes is not lower than the lowest height at which fluid can flow through the outlet.

[0011] In this embodiment of the invention, the opening direction of the inlet and the opening direction of the outlet can form a 90° angle.

[0012] In this embodiment of the present invention, an outlet cap is provided on the side of the RO membrane assembly near the water inlet end of the filter element, and a wastewater outlet is provided on the outlet cap, so that the gas in the raw water chamber can be discharged from the wastewater outlet after passing through the RO membrane assembly.

[0013] The technical solution of this utility model is achieved through the following steps: S1, the water in the raw water chamber flows to the RO membrane module through the water inlet channel on the exhaust end cover; S2, when the water inlet is below the water outlet, the gas in the raw water chamber is squeezed through the fine holes to the water outlet and then enters the RO membrane module and is discharged; S3, when the water inlet is above the water outlet, the gas in the raw water chamber is squeezed through the water inlet to the water outlet and then enters the RO membrane module and is discharged; S4, the filter element can ensure normal operation of the exhaust function in both positions, avoiding the problem of air trapped in the filter element.

[0014] The beneficial effects of this invention are that, by optimizing the design of the exhaust end cap, the problem of air trapping inside the filter element is solved, significantly improving the water output delay and enhancing the user experience. Furthermore, the filter element can be placed in both directions, increasing the flexibility and convenience of filter element installation, especially suitable for installation in confined spaces such as under kitchen cabinets. In particular, the exhaust end cap adopts an integrated design of the sheet, partition, cover plate, and ring, resulting in a compact structure and excellent sealing, ensuring stable operation of the filter element at various placement angles. Attached Figure Description

[0015] To more clearly illustrate the technical solution of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0016] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the exhaust end cap in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0017] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the exhaust end cap in an embodiment of this utility model.

[0018] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of the filter element in the first direction of this utility model.

[0019] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the filter element installed in the first direction in this utility model.

[0020] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the exhaust end cover when the filter element is installed in the first direction in this utility model.

[0021] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the filter element in the second direction of this utility model.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the filter element installed in the second direction in this utility model.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the exhaust end cap when the filter element is installed in the second direction in this utility model. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments.

[0025] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the filter mainly includes a filter cartridge housing 1, an RO membrane module 2, a raw water chamber 3, and an exhaust cap 4. The filter cartridge housing 1 is the main body of the filter cartridge. Its internal space is divided into two areas by the RO membrane module 2: the raw water chamber 3, located between the outer periphery of the RO membrane module 2 and the inner wall of the filter cartridge housing 1, and the filtration chamber inside the RO membrane module 2. The raw water chamber 3 is used to hold the raw water to be filtered, while the exhaust cap 4 is installed on the side of the RO membrane module 2 away from the filter cartridge inlet, allowing the raw water to fully enter the raw water chamber for filtration. This layout ensures that water flows from the raw water chamber 3 through the exhaust cap 4 to the RO membrane module 2 for filtration, while also achieving the venting function.

[0026] The specific structure of the exhaust end cap 4 is shown in the figure. The exhaust end cap 4 includes a sheet 5, a partition 6, a cover plate 7, an annular body 12, and ribs 13. The sheet 5 is the core component of the exhaust end cap 4. One end face is adapted to the RO membrane module 2, and the other end face is provided with a water inlet channel 9. Water needs to flow from the other end face of the sheet to the first end face, that is, the water flows from the raw water chamber to the RO membrane module for filtration. The peripheral edge of the sheet 5 is provided with a notch, which forms an outlet 10 to connect the two ends of the sheet 5. Further, a partition 6 is provided on the other end face of the sheet 5. The partition 6 is located on the outer periphery of the outlet 10 and can surround the outlet. Another notch is provided on the partition 6 to form an inlet 11. A cover plate 7 is also provided on the partition 6. The cover plate covers the partition plate and can be welded to ensure the single flow of water in the inlet channel. The cover plate 7 and the partition plate 6 together form the inlet channel 9. The design of the inlet channel 9 creates a height difference between its inlet 11 and outlet 10, thereby guiding the water flow smoothly to the RO membrane module 2. In addition, the cover plate 7 is provided with fine holes 8, which are connected to the outlet 10 of the inlet channel 9 to assist in venting.

[0027] When the filter cartridge is placed horizontally in a certain position, with the inlet 11 below the outlet 10, the gas in the raw water chamber 3 is forced through the fine holes 8 to the outlet 10 and then enters the RO membrane module 2 for discharge. At this time, the fine holes 8 play a crucial role, concentrating and guiding the gas in the raw water chamber 3 to the outlet 10, preventing gas from remaining in the raw water chamber 3. However, when the filter cartridge is rotated 90° during installation, with the inlet 11 above the outlet 10, the gas in the raw water chamber 3 is directly forced through the inlet 11 to the outlet 10 and then enters the RO membrane module 2 for discharge. This design ensures effective venting regardless of how the filter cartridge is rotated 90°, allowing the filter cartridge to be placed horizontally at two angles. Specifically, within the original water chamber 3, the lowest height of the fluid (gas or water) flowing through the fine hole 8 is not lower than the lowest height of the fluid flowing through the outlet 10. This height difference design ensures that the gas can be completely discharged, avoiding the problem of insufficient venting due to insufficient height.

[0028] To further enhance the overall performance of the filter element, the exhaust end cap 4 also includes an annular body 12, which is adapted to one end face of the sheet body 5 and fitted onto the outer periphery of the RO membrane module 2. The design of the annular body 12 not only improves the stability of the exhaust end cap 4 but also enhances its sealing performance, preventing leakage problems caused by improper installation or long-term use. In addition, the outer periphery of the exhaust end cap 4 is equipped with ribs 13, which abut against the inner periphery of the raw water chamber 3, further improving the sealing performance and overall stability of the filter element.

[0029] The opening direction of the inlet 11 forms a 90° angle with the opening direction of the outlet 10. This design is one of the key innovations of this utility model. Through this angled design, in both orientations of the filter element, the inlet and outlet are always at the top, thus ensuring that the venting effect is not affected by the filter element's placement angle. When the filter element is rotated 90°, the change in the position of the inlet 11 will not affect the venting function. Furthermore, an outlet cap 14 is provided on the side of the RO membrane module 2 near the filter element's inlet end, and a wastewater outlet 15 is configured on the outlet cap 14. Gas in the raw water chamber 3 is discharged from the wastewater outlet 15 after passing through the RO membrane module 2. This multi-channel venting design further ensures the venting effect and avoids gas retention problems. After entering the RO membrane module, the gas flows from the membrane's wastewater end and finally exits from the wastewater channel of the filter element through the wastewater outlet. The outlet cap is similar to existing technology and will not be described in detail again.

[0030] In practical applications, the filter element of this invention is installed with two horizontal orientations. The first orientation is where the inlet is located radially upwards on the filter element, and the second orientation is where the inlet is located vertically upwards on the filter element. When the filter element is installed in the first orientation: the inlet is horizontal, the outlet is vertical, and the outlet is above the inlet. When water flows into the raw water chamber, because the water level in the raw water chamber is the same as in the inlet channel, the air in the raw water chamber is compressed by the water flow and passes through the fine holes sequentially to the outlet, the wastewater end of the RO membrane module, and finally exits from the wastewater outlet. When the filter element is installed in the second orientation: the inlet is vertical, the outlet is horizontal, and the outlet is below the inlet. When water flows into the raw water chamber, the water flow in the raw water chamber quickly rises to the inlet, simultaneously compressing the air, and the air passes through the outlet sequentially to the wastewater end of the RO membrane module, and finally exits from the wastewater outlet. It should be noted that when the water level rises to the orifice, due to flow rate issues, only a small portion of the water will enter the outlet through the orifice. However, the rising velocity of the water in the original water chamber is greater than the velocity of the water passing through the orifice. This ensures that when the liquid level in the inlet channel differs from the liquid level outside the inlet channel, air can be forced out of the outlet. In the diagram, the dashed line represents the air flow direction, and the solid line represents the water flow direction.

[0031] The working process is as follows: S1, water in the raw water chamber 3 flows through the inlet channel 9 on the exhaust end cap 4 to the RO membrane module 2; S2, when the inlet 11 is below the outlet 10, the gas in the raw water chamber 3 is squeezed through the fine holes 8 to the outlet 10 and then enters the RO membrane module 2 and is discharged; S3, when the inlet 11 is above the outlet 10, the gas in the raw water chamber 3 is squeezed through the inlet 11 to the outlet 10 and then enters the RO membrane module 2 and is discharged; S4, the filter element can ensure normal operation of the exhaust function in both positions, avoiding the problem of air trapped in the filter element. Through the above steps, this utility model achieves stable exhaust function of the filter element under different placement angles.

[0032] This invention is particularly suitable for installation in confined spaces such as under kitchen cabinets. Since the filter cartridge can be placed in both directions, users do not need to worry about the installation orientation, greatly facilitating filter replacement and maintenance. Furthermore, the exhaust end cap 4 adopts an integrated design of the sheet 5, partition 6, cover plate 7, and annular body 12, resulting in a compact structure and excellent sealing, ensuring stable operation of the filter cartridge at various placement angles. This design not only solves the problem of air trapping inside the filter cartridge but also significantly improves the water output delay phenomenon, enhancing the user experience.

[0033] In summary, this invention successfully solves the problem of ineffective gas discharge when the filter element is placed horizontally by optimizing the design of the exhaust end cap 4. Its unique dual-angle exhaust function and compact structural design enable the filter element to achieve stable and efficient operation in different installation environments, demonstrating significant technical advantages and market promotion value.

[0034] The foregoing description illustrates and describes preferred embodiments of the present invention. As previously stated, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the forms disclosed herein and should not be construed as excluding other embodiments. It can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be altered within the scope of the inventive concept described herein through the foregoing teachings or related technical or knowledge. Any modifications and variations made by those skilled in the art that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention should be within the protection scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for venting, comprising a filter element housing, wherein an RO membrane assembly is disposed within the housing, and a raw water chamber is formed between the inner periphery of the housing and the outer periphery of the RO membrane assembly, characterized in that, It also includes an exhaust end cap, through which the water flow in the original water chamber can enter the RO membrane module for filtration; The exhaust end cap is equipped with a water inlet channel, through which the water in the raw water chamber can flow to the RO membrane module; when the exhaust end cap is installed inside the outer shell, there is a height difference between the water inlet and the water outlet of the water inlet channel; The exhaust end cap is also provided with a fine hole, which is configured to communicate with the outlet of the water inlet channel. When the inlet is located below the outlet, the gas in the raw water chamber can be squeezed through the fine pores to the outlet and then discharged into the RO membrane module. When the inlet is located above the outlet, the gas in the raw water chamber is squeezed through the inlet to the outlet and then discharged into the RO membrane module.

2. The transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The exhaust end cap is disposed on the side of the RO membrane assembly away from the water inlet end of the filter element; the exhaust end cap includes a sheet body, one end face of the sheet body is adapted to the RO membrane assembly, the other end face of the sheet body is provided with a water inlet channel, and a notch that can form a water outlet is provided on the sheet body located on the peripheral edge, the notch can connect the two end faces of the sheet body.

3. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 2, characterized in that, A partition is provided on the other end face of the sheet body. The partition is located on the outer periphery of the notch. Another notch that can form a water inlet is provided on the partition. A cover plate is also provided on the partition. The cover plate and the partition form the water inlet channel. The fine hole is provided on the cover plate.

4. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The exhaust end cap is also equipped with an annular body, which is adapted to and connected to one end face of the sheet body, and the annular body can be fitted around the outer periphery of the RO membrane module.

5. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The exhaust end cap is provided with ribs on its outer periphery, and the ribs are configured to abut against the inner periphery of the original water chamber.

6. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Within the raw water chamber, the minimum height at which fluid can flow through the fine holes is not lower than the minimum height at which fluid can flow through the outlet.

7. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The opening direction of the inlet and the opening direction of the outlet can form a 90° angle.

8. A transverse filter element capable of being placed at two angles for exhaust as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The RO membrane module has an outlet cap near the water inlet end of the filter element. The outlet cap has a wastewater outlet, and the gas in the raw water chamber can be discharged from the wastewater outlet after passing through the RO membrane module.

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