Device and method for connecting a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system, and water treatment device

Abstract

A device (10) for connecting a cleaning cartridge (12) to a water treatment system comprises an upper receiving area (26) which has at least two, preferably three, definedly positioned connections (28) for coupling correspondingly definedly positioned connections (32) of the cartridge (12). The device (10) according to the invention also comprises a mounting (22) into which the cartridge (12) can be inserted, said mounting (22) having a receiving contour which allows the cartridge (12) to be inserted only in a predefined orientation and does not allow a rotation or horizontal displacement of the fully inserted cartridge (12), except in the direction opposite the insertion direction. The device (10) according to the invention further comprises an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the vertical position of the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) or the connections (28) of the receiving area (26) such that the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) and the connections (28) of the receiving area (26) can be alternatively pressed against one another or removed from one another.

Description

[0001] Device and method for connecting a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system, as well as water treatment device

[0002] The invention relates to a device and a method for connecting a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system. The invention further relates to a water treatment device comprising such a device and a cleaning cartridge.

[0003] In water purification and treatment, particularly for laboratory purposes, water purification systems are used to remove impurities from the water. A key component of such systems is the purification cartridge, through which the water is passed for cleaning. A purification cartridge is typically connected to a water purification system via a connection device, with the connection device and one or more purification cartridges together forming a water purification unit. The purification cartridges are consumables and must be replaced at specific intervals.

[0004] From US patent 11,358,076 B2, a filter coupling device is known, comprising connecting elements, a base plate, a filter holder, a rotating shaft, and a leg. The filter holder allows for the insertion of a first filter cartridge with a first arrangement of connecting openings in a first position, or the insertion of a second filter cartridge with a different arrangement of connecting openings in a second position. The filter holder can be switched between the two positions by rotating it around the rotating shaft. The arrangement of the device's connecting elements can be changed to the configuration appropriate for the respective filter cartridge by means of an interchangeable mechanism. A filter cartridge inserted into the filter holder and positioned manually is lifted by means of a lever coupled to the filter holder, so that the connecting openings of the filter cartridge are connected to the connecting elements of the device.The seal between a connection opening of a filter cartridge and the corresponding connecting element is achieved by a form-fitting sealing element adapted to the connection opening and encompassing the connecting element.

[0005] US Patent 2021 / 031126 A1 discloses a device for connecting a filter capsule, which has an axially projecting port centrally located on both its upper and lower end faces. The filter capsule is first moved horizontally into the device so that the upper port is positioned in a slot of the device. The filter capsule is then lowered so that the lower port is positioned in an opening of the device. By actuating a rotary lever, a vertically movable first fluid channel of the device is pressed downwards by a specific amount to clamp the filter capsule and connect the two ports to the first and a second port of the device, respectively. The connections are sealed with radial seals. Since only one central port is provided on each end face of the filter capsule, the filter capsule can be inserted in any orientation.

[0006] The device shown in US 11,202,980 B2 is also used to connect a filter cartridge, which has a protruding port in the center of each end face. For this purpose, the ports of the filter cartridge are inserted into receptacles with rotating elements for these ports. The ports of the filter cartridges are chamfered, which clamps the cartridge in the device. By rotating the filter cartridge, it is secured in the device.

[0007] The object of the invention is to simplify and make safer the connection of a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system. Connecting and disconnecting a cartridge should be possible quickly and without tools.

[0008] This problem is solved by a device with the features of claim 1 and by a water treatment device according to claim 16, as well as by a method with the features of claim 21. Advantageous and expedient embodiments of the device and method according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims. The device according to the invention for connecting a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system comprises an upper receptacle having at least two, preferably three, definedly positioned connections for coupling correspondingly definedly positioned connections of the cartridge.The device according to the invention further comprises a holder into which the cartridge can be inserted, the holder having a receiving contour that allows the cartridge to be inserted only in a predetermined orientation and prevents any twisting or horizontal displacement of the fully inserted cartridge, except in the direction opposite to an insertion direction. The device according to the invention further comprises an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the vertical position of the connections of the inserted cartridge or the connections of the holder, so that the connections of the inserted cartridge and the connections of the holder can be selectively moved either into a connection position in which the connections are pressed vertically against each other, or into a release position in which the connections are vertically separated from each other.

[0009] For the purposes of this invention, "definedly positioned" connections are understood to mean connections whose position relative to the stationary parts of the device is predetermined. This does not apply, for example, to loose hose ends.

[0010] The predefined orientation of the cartridge is a predetermined rotational position of the cartridge relative to a vertical axis when the cartridge is in its operating position and relative to the stationary device. For example, if the cartridge is cylindrical and has a protrusion on its circumference that fits into a corresponding receptacle in the device only in a single rotational position, then this rotational position is the predefined orientation of the cartridge. In general, this Poka-Yoke principle ensures that the cartridge cannot be inserted into the device in an incorrect orientation, which would lead to a malfunction.

[0011] A predetermined orientation in a substantially rotationally symmetrical cartridge can also result from the arrangement of the connections. For example, the requirement might be that a specific connection on the cartridge must face the device when it is inserted, so that the arrangement of the cartridge connections then matches the arrangement of the device connections.

[0012] The receiving contour provided according to the invention not only prevents incorrect insertion of the cartridge, but also prevents the cartridge from unintentionally slipping or twisting before the actual coupling of the connections.

[0013] According to the invention, the adjustment mechanism serves to adjust the vertical position of the connections of the inserted cartridge or the connections of the receptacle, namely to a connection position in which the connections are pressed against each other, and to a release position in which the connections are separated from each other. This includes the following two options: According to a first alternative, the cartridge is raised or lowered to couple or decouple the connections, while the connections of the device remain stationary. According to a second alternative, the inserted cartridge remains stationary, and instead the connections of the device are lowered and raised to couple or decouple the connections.Although the second alternative has the advantage that, when adjusting, especially when connecting the ports, the weight of the cartridge, which can weigh several kilograms, does not have to be overcome, the invention will below be described primarily with reference to the first alternative.

[0014] Preferably, the cartridge holder with its connections is integrated into a ceiling section of the device. This necessarily means that the cartridge connections must be located on an upper end face of the cartridge. This preferred design is based on the understanding that top-mounted connections on a cartridge drip less and allow for easier venting. When all connections are located at the top of the cartridge, the design of the remaining wall sections of the cartridge is simplified, particularly the middle section and the cartridge base, which can be designed so that the cartridge can stand upright without any additional support.

[0015] With regard to connecting and disconnecting the cartridge and device connections, the holder can have an engagement structure that engages the cartridge in such a way that when the connections are moved into the release position by lowering the cartridge (according to the first alternative described above), the cartridge is pulled downwards with it. Conversely, when the connections are disconnected by lifting the holder (according to the second alternative described above), the cartridge is held in place by the engagement structure, i.e., it is prevented from being lifted along with the holder.

[0016] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the engagement structure is formed by the receiving contour of the holder, which thus has a dual function.

[0017] A particularly advantageous design of the holder's receiving contour includes a contact surface whose outer edge is partially covered, preferably over half the holder's circumference, by a raised edge structure. The shape and size of this edge structure can be matched to a suitable structure of a radially projecting edge on the cartridge's base to ensure the cartridge's intended orientation. However, the intended orientation can also be achieved by other means, such as a previously mentioned projection or similar feature. The primary purpose of the overlapping edge structure, however, is to vertically guide the cartridge.When the cartridge connections need to be disconnected from the device connections, the overlapping rim structure ensures that the cartridge is actually pulled away when the holder is lowered, thus disconnecting its connections from the holder's connections. The rim structure of the holder is also advantageous for the second scenario, where the holder with the device connections, rather than the holder with the inserted cartridge, is moved. Because the rim structure of the holder covers the radially protruding edge of the cartridge's base, it ensures that the cartridge is not unintentionally pulled away when the holder with the device's connections is lifted.

[0018] The connections of the cartridge holder can have a conical contour. This conical contour can be used as a self-centering guide for the cartridge connections and for automatic fine-tuning when attaching the cartridge, especially if the cartridge connections have a complementary contour.

[0019] Especially when the coupled connections are to withstand a high pressure of 5 bar or more, a reliable seal is desirable, in addition to sufficient contact pressure. Although many different types of seals are known, axial seals between the connections of the fitting and the connections of the cartridge prove to be the most suitable for the intended purpose. "Axial" here refers to a vertical axis. Compared to radial seals, which are used in designs with two nested pipe sections to seal between the two sections, less force is required to achieve the necessary sealing effect. Appropriately positioned O-rings or flat gaskets are particularly suitable as axial seals.

[0020] Based on this sealing concept, the cartridge can have an essentially flat front face from which the connections open as channel openings, i.e., the connections have no pronounced axial contour.

[0021] In this design, the axial seals can be embedded in the flat end face or form a substantial part of it. In principle, it is possible for the axial seals to form the entire end face of the cartridge, especially if they are designed as a single, continuous sealing element.

[0022] According to a reverse design, the flat front face with the axial seals can of course also be provided on the side of the device's mounting.

[0023] Another advantageous design involves having the cartridge or holder connections each have a dome onto which the axial seal is stretched. The axial seal, stretched onto the dome, is then automatically in the correct position and cannot be easily lost. While it is theoretically possible to fit a flat gasket with a suitable inner diameter over a dome so that it clamps in place, an O-ring made of an elastic material is the better choice in this regard.

[0024] The adjustment mechanism for raising and lowering the connections of the cartridge or device should be designed with as few parts as possible, requiring minimal operating steps, to ensure cost-effective manufacturing and ease of use. According to a preferred embodiment, the adjustment mechanism comprises a spindle, preferably in the form of a knurled screw, with a thread that engages with a thread in the bracket or receptacle. A spindle, particularly a knurled screw, is a user-friendly operating element that allows for very simple vertical adjustment of the connections for coupling and uncoupling. Thanks to the interlocking threads, a rotation of the spindle is converted into a vertical, translational movement of the bracket with the cartridge inserted therein, or of the receptacle with the device connections.

[0025] This type of adjustment mechanism with threads has the advantage over known solutions with a pivot lever or similar devices that the degree of vertical raising or lowering can be set very precisely. This allows for compensation of larger tolerances in the cartridge's height. For example, if the cartridge is manufactured by welding together a base, a middle section, and a lid, the cartridge's height can have a tolerance of ± 2.5 mm. Adjustment via the spindle allows for the compensation of such tolerances and ensures a secure, tight connection of the fittings, even at high pressures.

[0026] In contrast, a user-friendly embodiment provides two defined positions, between which switching can be easily accomplished using an operating lever. More precisely, the adjustment mechanism has an operating lever with which the spindle can be rotated between a defined first position, in which the connections are in the release position, and a defined second position, in which the connections are in the connection position. A further development of the concept of a rotatable adjustment mechanism provides that the two threads form a self-locking gear. Self-locking means that relative movement between the spindle and the holder or receptacle is not possible without the application of an external force. This means that even in the loaded connection position, the connections of the cartridge and the device cannot separate from each other on their own.An additional locking mechanism (such as a snap-in device) is therefore unnecessary, which simplifies the device's design and reduces connection time. Depending on the materials used for the threads and the resulting coefficient of friction, as well as the thread type, a maximum thread pitch for self-locking can be determined. For example, the pitch angle of a trapezoidal thread typically should not exceed 2°30'.

[0027] When adjusting using the spindle, it should not move vertically. Therefore, a guide structure is recommended that allows the spindle to rotate but simultaneously prevents it from moving vertically.

[0028] For this purpose, the guide structure can have a cylinder arranged on a base section of the device for rotatable mounting of the spindle and a vertically fixed horizontal flange that covers a horizontal section of the spindle and thus prevents the spindle from "lifting off".

[0029] Even if it is ensured that the inserted cartridge cannot rotate within the holder, in the case of a vertically movable holder (corresponding to the first alternative described above, where it is not the device's connections but the cartridge inserted into the holder that is raised or lowered), it must also be ensured that the holder itself cannot rotate. This is also important for the function of the adjustment mechanism, as the holder should not rotate with the spindle but rather be raised or lowered by the relative movement. According to a preferred embodiment, a locking structure is therefore provided that prevents the holder from rotating but does not impede the spindle's rotation. The locking structure can be implemented, for example, by a housing-mounted projection that engages in a vertical groove of the holder.

[0030] For easier operation of the spindle, it can be equipped with an operating lever.

[0031] With a view to safe operation (avoiding the risk of pinching) and secure operation (protecting the adjustment mechanism from ingress of dirt), the spindle designed as a knurled screw can be provided with a vertically raised edge to cover an otherwise open gap between the knurled screw and the bracket.

[0032] To define a specific connection position or to automate the adjustment mechanism with a drive, an end-position sensor, preferably on the ceiling section, can be provided. This sensor outputs a signal that depends on the vertical position of the cartridge relative to the mounting. The sensor can be, for example, a simple contact sensor or a proximity sensor.

[0033] The invention also provides a water treatment device with a apparatus as defined above and a cleaning cartridge. The cartridge has a lower base, an upper lid, and an intermediate middle section, with several connections formed in the lid.

[0034] The aforementioned sealing concept provides for axial seals to be arranged between the connections of the cartridge and the connections of the device, which require less force than radial seals to achieve the required sealing effect.

[0035] According to one design of the invention, the cartridge lid and the device receptacle—when the cartridge is fully inserted—have opposing end faces, at least one of which is substantially flat, with the axial seals embedded in or forming a substantial part of the flat end face. In the most extreme case, one of the end faces is provided with a sealing element over its entire surface, and the openings of the connections are large enough to compensate for a certain tolerance in positioning. This also means that the seals for the individual connections can all be formed in a single sealing element.

[0036] The coupling of the connections can be made simpler and safer by ensuring that the cartridge connections have a contour complementary to the contour of the device connections.

[0037] As already mentioned, the design of the holder's receiving contour is intended to prevent incorrect insertion of the cartridge and also to prevent unintentional changes to the cartridge's position or orientation. According to a preferred embodiment, to implement this Poka-Yoke principle, the cartridge also has a special insertion contour that is matched to the receiving contour of the holder, with the insertion contour of the cartridge preferably being formed in the base.

[0038] In the event that the device holder has a separate engagement structure in addition to the receiving contour to ensure that the cartridge is either taken along (first alternative) or retained (second alternative) when the connections are loosened, the insertion contour should (also) be matched to the engagement structure of the holder.

[0039] Matching the preferred design of the holder's receiving contour, the cartridge's insertion contour can feature a vertically raised structure extending over half the cartridge's circumference. This ensures the cartridge can only be inserted into the holder in one orientation, where the holder's edge structure and the cartridge's vertically raised structure do not obstruct each other. With a suitable arrangement, these structures complement each other so that no gap remains between them circumferentially that would allow the cartridge to rotate.

[0040] To facilitate the insertion of the cartridge into the holder, the friction of the cartridge base on the support surface of the holder can be reduced by providing vertically downward-projecting skids on the cartridge base.

[0041] The invention also provides a method for connecting a cleaning cartridge to a water treatment system comprising the following steps:

[0042] - Providing a water treatment device as defined above; inserting the cartridge into the holder in the specified orientation; and adjusting the vertical position of the cartridge connections or the receiver connections using the adjustment mechanism so that the cartridge connections and the receiver connections are pressed against each other.

[0043] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and from the accompanying drawings, to which reference is made. The drawings schematically show:

[0044] - Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an assembled device according to the invention before the insertion of a cleaning cartridge;

[0045] - Figure 2 shows a sectional view of the device without the cartridge;

[0046] - Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the upper part of the housing of the device;

[0047] - Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the lower part of the housing of the device;

[0048] - Figure 5 shows a detailed sectional view of the lower part of the device with the cartridge inserted;

[0049] - Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the device's mounting and the bottom of the cartridge;

[0050] - Figure 7 shows a detailed sectional view of the holder and the cartridge base;

[0051] - Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the underside of the cartridge base;

[0052] - Figure 9 shows a sequence of steps for connecting the cartridge to the device;

[0053] - Figure 10 shows a perspective view of the spindle of the device according to an alternative embodiment; - Figure 11 shows a perspective view of an assembled device according to the invention with a cartridge inserted according to an alternative embodiment of the spindle; and

[0054] - Figure 12 shows a perspective sectional view of the upper part of the device according to an alternative embodiment with an end position sensor;

[0055] - Figure 13 shows a perspective sectional view of the upper part of the device according to an alternative embodiment with an adjustment mechanism located on top.

[0056] Figure 1 shows an exemplary device 10 for connecting a cleaning cartridge 12 to a water treatment system with such a cartridge 12, wherein the cartridge 12 is shown as semi-transparent.

[0057] In the following description, terms such as "top", "bottom", etc. refer to the operating position of the device 10 shown in Figure 1.

[0058] Essential components of the device 10, shown in a sectional view in Figure 2 without the cartridge 12, are a housing 14 with a vertically extending central section 16, from which a bottom section 18 and a top section 20 project horizontally, as well as a holder 22 for the cartridge 12 and an adjustment mechanism with a spindle, which in the embodiments described here is designed as a user-friendly knurled screw 24. Operation of the spindle can also be facilitated by an operating lever, which will be discussed later.

[0059] The top section 20 of the housing 14 incorporates an upper receptacle 26 with several—here three—connections 28 (see also Figure 3). No further connections, for example in the bottom section 18 of the device 10, are provided. The connections 28 can be connected to fluid lines of a water treatment system (not shown) on their upper side. The fluid lines serve (i) to supply water to the cartridge 12, (ii) to draw off the water purified by the cartridge 12 (pure water or ultrapure water), and (iii) to discharge wastewater. The assignment of the connections 28 in the receptacle 26 to the corresponding fluid lines is predetermined, so that one can speak of a water supply connection, a pure (or ultrapure) water withdrawal connection, and a wastewater discharge connection, the relative arrangement of which is unambiguous.

[0060] The absolute positions of the terminals 28 in the receptacle 26 are also precisely defined, i.e., the distances of the terminals 28 to each other and their positions relative to the stationary parts of the device 10 are precisely specified, and they are unchangeable in the assembled state of the device 10.

[0061] The connections 28 of the device 10 have a conical contour. More precisely, the lower opening of each connection 28 is surrounded by a downwardly projecting annular section 30. The outer edge of the annular section 30 is inclined such that the annular section 30 tapers downwards (see also the detailed view in Figure 8, which will be explained later).

[0062] The connections 28 of the receptacle 26 are aligned with the corresponding connections 32 of the cartridge 12. This means that the connections 32 of the cartridge 12 are positioned so that they can be placed precisely under the connections 28 of the receptacle 26, as will be described in more detail later.

[0063] The cartridge 12 comprises a lower base 34, a tubular middle section 36, and an upper lid 38, which are welded together. The middle section 36 houses the devices and / or substances intended for water treatment or purification. The connections 32 of the cartridge 12 are located in the lid 38. No further connections, for example in the base 34 of the cartridge 12, are provided. The lid 38, like the base 34, is preferably manufactured by injection molding, although manufacturing by 3D printing is also possible in principle.

[0064] The connections 32 of the cartridge 12 are shaped to complement the connections 28 of the device 10. Each connection has a dome 40 surrounded by an annular recess 42. The outer edge of the recess 42 is inclined to match the outer edge of the annular section 30 of the connection 28 of the device 10, i.e., the recess 42 tapers downwards. An axial seal in the form of an O-ring 44 is clamped onto the dome 40. It is, of course, possible to reverse the design of the connections 32 of the cartridge 12 and the device 10. In this case, the connections 32 of the cartridge 12 have the (then upwardly projecting) annular sections 30, and the connections 28 of the device 10 have the domes 40 with the O-rings 44 and the recesses 42.

[0065] Another embodiment (not shown) provides that the connections 32 of the cartridge 12 and / or the connections 28 of the device 10 do not have any externally visible special axial contour. When the cartridge 12 is fully inserted, the end face of the cover 38 and the end face of the receptacle 26 are opposite each other, with at least one of these end faces being substantially flat and the associated connections 28 and 32 being formed as channel openings in the end face. Flat axial seals are embedded in the flat end face; that is, unlike O-rings, they do not have a special axial contour. The radial extent of the connection openings and the axial seals surrounding them is large enough to compensate for a certain tolerance in positioning.The axial seals can be individual parts, or they can all be formed in a single, continuous sealing element that may extend across the entire face. The axial seals or the entire sealing element can be injection-molded onto the face, or the expandable sealing element can be fitted over the face as a whole.

[0066] The connections 32 of the cartridge 12 functionally correspond to the connections 28 in the receptacle 26 of the device 10. That is, in the case of three connections 28, the cartridge 12 also has a water supply connection, a pure water outlet connection, and a wastewater discharge connection, which can be aligned opposite the corresponding connections 28 of the receptacle 26. However, the cartridge 12 can also have fewer (or more) connections 32 than the receptacle 26. In this case, those connections 28 or 32 that do not have a counterpart in the cartridge 12 or in the receptacle 26 remain unused. For example, if the cartridge 12 has only a water supply connection and a pure water outlet connection, the wastewater discharge connection of the receptacle 26 remains unused. As can be seen in Figures 4 and 5, a cylinder 46 rises from the base section 18 of the housing 14, which serves as a pivot bearing for the knurled screw 24.A disc rests on the top of the cylinder 46, which is vertically fixed by means of a screw and a nut, thus forming a fixed flange 48 that covers a horizontal section 50 of the knurled screw 24. The bottom section 18, the cylinder 46, and the vertically fixed horizontal flange 48 together form a guide structure for the knurled screw 24, which allows the knurled screw 24 to rotate but prevents it from moving vertically.

[0067] The knurled screw 24 has a lower actuating section 52, the outer surface of which may be knurled or otherwise profiled to facilitate operation. An external thread 54, in particular a trapezoidal thread, is formed on an upper section.

[0068] The external thread 54 of the knurled screw 24 engages with a corresponding internal thread 56 of the essentially cylindrical bracket 22 mounted on the knurled screw 24. The bracket 22 has a vertical groove 58 on the outer surface of its casing, which is aligned with a projection 60 that protrudes from the central section 16 of the housing 14 (see Figure 4). The groove 58 and the engaging projection 60 form a locking structure that prevents the bracket 22 from rotating. This ensures that the bracket 22 does not rotate when the knurled screw 24 is turned.

[0069] Rather, the interlocking threads 54, 56 ensure that when the knurled screw 24 is turned, the bracket 22 moves vertically upwards or downwards – depending on the direction of rotation of the knurled screw 24 – without the bracket 22 itself rotating. Since the groove 58 runs vertically, it does not impede the up-and-down movement of the bracket 22.

[0070] The threads 54 and 56 are designed to form a self-locking mechanism. This means that the knurled screw 24 cannot be turned without external force, even if the holder 22 is loaded with a cartridge 12. A cartridge 12 can only be inserted into the holder 22 in a specific orientation (rotational position); that is, the cartridge 12 can only be inserted into the holder 22 if it has a specific orientation relative to a vertical axis of the device 10.

[0071] For this purpose, the holder 22 has a special receiving contour, which is shown in Figures 6 and 7. An annular, flat surface of the holder 22 serves as a support surface 62 for the base 34 of the cartridge 12. An outer area of ​​the support surface 62 is partially covered by an edge structure 64. More precisely, the edge structure 64 covers the radially outer area of ​​the support surface 62 approximately over half the circumference of the holder 22.

[0072] The base 34 of the cartridge 12 projects radially beyond the central section 36. The projecting edge of the base 34 has an insertion contour that is aligned with the receiving contour of the holder 22. More precisely, the edge of the base 34 has a vertically raised structure 66 over half its circumference, while the remaining circumference is flat. Therefore, the cartridge 12 can only be inserted into the holder 22 horizontally with the flat circumference leading, as in any other orientation the edge structure 64 of the holder 22 would block the raised structure 66 of the base 34 of the cartridge 12.

[0073] When the cartridge 12 is fully inserted into the holder 22, the two ends of the raised structure 66 of the cartridge base 34 lie – viewed in the circumferential direction – directly opposite the two ends of the rim structure 64 of the holder 22, so that rotation of the cartridge 12 in the holder 22 about a vertical axis is not possible. Likewise, it is not possible to move the cartridge 12 vertically or horizontally in the holder 22 – except in the direction opposite to the insertion direction – unless a locking mechanism or the like is provided to fix the cartridge 12 in the fully inserted position. Thus, the horizontal position and orientation of the fully inserted cartridge 12 are precisely defined.

[0074] However, instead of the edge structure 64 and the vertically raised structure 66, other measures may also be provided to ensure a predetermined orientation of the cartridge 12 inserted into the holder 22, which is secured against twisting.

[0075] To facilitate the insertion of the cartridge 12 into the holder 22, the base 34 of the cartridge 12 can have downwardly projecting skids 68 on its underside, as shown in Figure 8. The skids 68 reduce the friction between the cartridge base 34 and the support surface 62 of the holder 22. The skids 68 are shaped and arranged in such a way that the cartridge 12 cannot tilt in the holder 22.

[0076] The following describes, with reference to Figure 9, how the cartridge 12 is connected to the device 10 and thus to a water treatment system.

[0077] The holder 22 is moved into a lower position, which can be referred to as the release position, by turning the knurled screw 24 in a first direction. In this position, the cartridge 12 is fully inserted into the holder 22 in the only possible orientation, with the edge structure 64 of the holder 22 serving as a guide rail. Together with the raised structure 66 of the cartridge base 34, the edge structure 64 of the holder 22 also ensures that the cartridge 12 retains its orientation after being fully inserted and cannot be displaced horizontally (except in the direction opposite to the insertion direction) or vertically relative to the holder 22.

[0078] By turning the knurled screw 24 in a second direction opposite to the first, the holder 22 and the cartridge 12 inserted therein are moved vertically upwards into a connection position in which the connections 32 of the cartridge 12 are pressed firmly against the corresponding connections 28 of the device 10. Thanks to the conical and complementary contours of the connections 28 and 32, fine adjustment is achieved automatically. The pressurized O-rings 44 ensure a seal between the coupled connections 28 and 32.

[0079] Due to the self-locking mechanism of the gear formed by the two threads 54 and 56, the holder 22 remains in the connection position without the need for additional fixing. The cartridge 12 is securely clamped in the device 10 without any wobble.

[0080] When the cartridge 12 is to be removed from the device 10, turning the knurled screw 24 in the first direction moves the holder 22 back downwards into the release position. The edge structure 64 of the holder 22, which partially covers the radially projecting edge of the cartridge base 34, serves as an engagement structure and ensures that the cartridge 12 is carried along by the holder 22 and that the connections 28 and 32 move apart.

[0081] In this embodiment, the receiving contour of the holder 22 thus fulfills a dual function (orientation and carrying of the cartridge 12). However, the function of carrying the cartridge 12 can also be implemented in other ways.

[0082] Figure 10 shows an alternative design of the knurled screw 24 with a vertically raised edge 70. The raised edge 70 covers a gap between the knurled screw 24 and the bracket 22 to such an extent that there is no risk of pinching for the user during operation and dirt is prevented from entering the adjustment mechanism.

[0083] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the knurled screw 24 has an operating lever 72 that facilitates turning the knurled screw 24. The operating lever 72 can be turned from a defined first position, in which the connections 32 of the inserted cartridge 12 and the connections 28 of the receptacle 26 are separated from each other (release position), to a defined second position, in which the connections 28 and 32 are pressed against each other (connection position). To release the cartridge 12, the operating lever 72 is turned back to the first position.

[0084] Figure 12 shows the optional use of an end-position sensor 74. The sensor 74 can be attached to the ceiling section 20 of the housing 14 and outputs a signal that depends on the vertical position of the cartridge 12 relative to the receptacle 26. In the simplest case, the sensor 74 is a contact sensor that registers contact and outputs a signal as soon as the cartridge 12 is in the connection position. Another embodiment of the device 10 is shown in Figure 13. Here, the adjustment mechanism is not located at the bottom of the bracket 22, but at the top of the receptacle 26 with the connections 28 of the device 10. More precisely, the thread 54 of the knurled screw 24 engages with a corresponding thread of the receptacle 26, which is vertically movable relative to the ceiling section 20 of the housing 14, whereas the bracket 22 is vertically fixed.In accordance with the adjustment principle described above, the receiver 26 with the connections 28 can be moved vertically upwards and downwards by turning the knurled screw 24 in order to reach the connection position or the release position.

[0085] When the holder 26 is lifted, the edge structure 64 of the holder 22, which partially covers the radially projecting edge of the cartridge base 34, again serves as an engagement structure by retaining the cartridge 12. This is important if the connections 32 of the cartridge 12, which were previously pressed against the connections 28 of the device 10, are still attached to the connections 28 of the device 10. However, the engagement structure, which prevents a vertical upward movement of the cartridge 12, can also be implemented in other ways.

[0086] It is of course possible to combine various features of the exemplary embodiments described in a suitable manner.

[0087] Reference symbol list

[0088] 10 Device

[0089] 12 cartridges

[0090] 14 cases

[0091] 16 Middle section of the housing

[0092] 18 Bottom section of the housing

[0093] 20 Ceiling section of the housing

[0094] 22 bracket

[0095] 24 Knurled screw (spindle)

[0096] 26th recording

[0097] 28 connections of the recording

[0098] 30 Ring section

[0099] 32 cartridge connections

[0100] 34 Bottom of the cartridge

[0101] 36 Middle part of the cartridge

[0102] 38 cartridge lids

[0103] 40 Cathedral

[0104] 42 In-depth study

[0105] 44 O-ring

[0106] 46 cylinders

[0107] 48 flange

[0108] 50 horizontal section of the knurled screw

[0109] 52 Actuating section of the knurled screw 54 Thread of the knurled screw

[0110] 56 threads of the bracket

[0111] 58 Nut

[0112] 60 lead 62 contact area

[0113] 64 Edge structure of the bracket

[0114] 66 Increased structure of the cartridge base

[0115] 68 runners

[0116] 70 Raised edge of the knurled screw 72 Operating lever

[0117] 74 End position sensor

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (10) for connecting a cleaning cartridge (12) to a water treatment system, comprising an upper receptacle (26) having at least two, preferably three, definedly positioned ports (28) for coupling correspondingly definedly positioned ports (32) of the cartridge (12), a holder (22) into which the cartridge (12) can be inserted, wherein the holder (22) has a receiving contour that allows the cartridge (12) to be inserted only in a predetermined orientation and does not permit rotation or horizontal displacement of the fully inserted cartridge (12), except in the direction opposite to an insertion direction, and an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the vertical position of the ports (32) of the inserted cartridge (12) or the ports (28) of the receptacle (26), such that the ports (32) of the inserted cartridge (12) and the ports (28) of the receptacle (26) can be selectively moved into a connection position,in which the terminals (28, 32) are pressed against each other, and can be moved into a release position in which the terminals (28, 32) are separated from each other.

2. Device (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the receptacle (26) with the connections (28) is integrated into a ceiling section (20) of the device (10).

3. Device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the holder (22) has an engagement structure which engages the cartridge (12) in such a way that when the connections (28, 32) are moved into the release position by lowering the cartridge (12) or by raising the receptacle (26), the cartridge (12) is carried downwards or held back.

4. Device (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the engagement structure is formed by the receiving contour of the holder (22).

5. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receiving contour of the holder (22) has a bearing surface (62) has an outer surface, the exterior of which is partially covered, preferably over half the circumference of the holder (22), by an edge structure (64).

6. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connections (28) of the receptacle (26) have a conical contour.

7. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that axial seals, preferably O-rings (44) or flat seals, are provided between the connections (28) of the receptacle (26) and the connections (32) of the cartridge (12).

8. Device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that the cartridge (12) has a substantially flat end face from which the connections (32) open as channel openings.

9. Device (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the axial seals are embedded in the flat end face or form a substantial part of the flat end face.

10. Device (10) according to claim 7, characterized in that the connections (28) of the receptacle (26) each have a dome (40) on which the axial seal, preferably an O-ring (44), is tensioned.

11. Device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the adjustment mechanism has a spindle, preferably in the form of a knurled screw (24), with a thread (54) which interacts with a thread (56) of the holder (22) or the receptacle (26).

12. Device (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that the adjustment mechanism has an operating lever (72) with which the spindle can be rotated between a defined first position in which the connections (28, 32) are in the release position and a defined second position in which the connections (28, 32) are in the connection position.

13. Device (10) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the threads (54, 56) form a self-locking gear.

14. Device (10) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that a guide structure is provided which allows the spindle to rotate and at the same time prevents the spindle from being moved vertically.

15. Device (10) according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that a locking structure is provided which prevents the holder (22) from twisting and does not impede the spindle from turning.

16. Water treatment device with a device (10) according to one of the preceding claims and a cleaning cartridge (12), characterized in that the cartridge (12) has a lower base (34), an upper lid (38) and an intermediate middle part (36), wherein several connections (32) are formed in the lid (38).

17. Water treatment device according to claim 16, characterized in that axial seals are arranged between the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) and the connections (28) of the device (10).

18. Water treatment device according to claim 17, characterized in that the lid (38) of the cartridge (12) and the receptacle (26) of the device (10) have opposing end faces, at least one of which is substantially flat, and that the axial seals are embedded in the flat end face or form a substantial part of the flat end face.

19. Water treatment device according to claim 17, characterized in that the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) have a contour complementary to the contour of the connections (28) of the device (10), wherein preferably the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) each have a dome (40) on which an axial seal, preferably an O-ring (44), is stretched.

20. Water treatment device according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the cartridge (12) has an insertion contour which is adapted to the receiving contour or a separate engagement structure of the holder (22), wherein the insertion contour of the cartridge (12) is preferably formed in the base (34) and further preferably has a vertically raised structure (66) which extends over half the circumference of the cartridge (12).

21. Method for connecting a cleaning cartridge (12) to a water treatment system, characterized by the following steps: - Providing a water treatment device according to one of claims 16 to 20; - Inserting the cartridge (12) into the holder (22) in the specified position orientation; and - Adjusting the vertical position of the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) or the connections (28) of the receptacle (26) by means of the adjustment mechanism, so that the connections (32) of the cartridge (12) and the connections (28) of the receptacle (26) are pressed against each other.

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