Valve adapter for water treatment systems

Abstract

The invention relates to a valve adapter (1) for controlling a gravity-induced flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) under the effect of gravity from an outlet opening (23) of a liquid container (2), wherein a valve (3) is arranged in a valve holder (21) on a base (22) of the liquid container (2) in order to open and close the outlet opening (23), and wherein: a cartridge (4) is arranged on top of the valve (3) as a unit in order to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) before leaving the liquid container (2); the valve adapter (1) is arranged between the valve (3) and the cartridge (4) and fits onto the valve (3) in order to close or open the valve (3) according to a desired valve state, characterised in that the valve adapter (1) is formed of several parts and comprises: a cylindrical main part (11) with an axial opening along its cylindrical axis (CA), which is open at its first and second ends (11a, 11b), wherein the first end (11a) faces the cartridge (4) and the second end (1b) faces the base (22) of the liquid container (2), wherein the cylindrical main part (11) is suitably shaped to fit into the valve holder (21) and to surround and hold the valve (3) inside the cylindrical main part (11) with a press fit or frictional fit; and an actuating means (12) which can be connected to the cylindrical main part (11) by its first open end (11a) and protrudes in particular radially outwards relative to the cylindrical main part (11), wherein the actuating means (12) is shaped in such a way that it exerts an opening force (F2) perpendicular to the base of the liquid container (2), this opening force pulling the valve (3), which is in interference-fit or frictional-fit connection with the cylindrical main part (11), away from the base (22) of the liquid container (2).

Description

[0001] Valve adapter for water treatment plants

[0002] The present invention relates to a valve adapter for regulating a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid by gravity from an outlet opening of a liquid container, wherein the valve adapter can open a valve to provide the flow of treated and / or filtered liquid from the liquid container. The invention further relates to a liquid treatment system and a liquid treatment set with such a valve adapter. The invention further relates to a method for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid with a liquid treatment system using such a valve adapter and the use of such a valve adapter to provide a flow from the liquid container.

[0003] Background of the invention

[0004] The purification of liquids is often carried out using a liquid treatment device. This allows substances dissolved in or contaminating the liquids to be reduced or removed. If desired, such systems can also be used to add additives to the liquid being treated. A sieve or a cartridge can be used for filtration. Over time, these sieves or cartridges become clogged and less effective or even unusable for purifying liquids. Therefore, it is advantageous if such sieves or cartridges can be replaced with newer, unused ones in the respective device. Cartridges, in particular, facilitate the replacement process.

[0005] Document WO 2016 / 120174 A1 discloses water purification systems with filter cartridges and a valve below the cartridge to regulate the flow through the system. Even when using easily replaceable cartridges, the system's lifespan depends on the other components. In this system, the valve is opened and closed mechanically in a complex manner. It must be rotated to open and close, requiring the insertion of a screw from above to convert the linear motion into a rotation. Such a mechanical solution requires complex components and can be unreliable due to wear and potential manufacturing tolerances. Alternatives for opening and closing the valve are often more complex to manufacture due to the necessary actuation of the valve.Furthermore, different material combinations are not possible without further increasing the manufacturing effort.

[0006] Disclosure of the invention

[0007] The objective of the invention is to provide a valve mechanism for opening and closing an outlet opening that is simple and reliable, cost-effective to manufacture and allows for different material combinations.

[0008] The problem is solved by a valve adapter for regulating a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid by gravity from an outlet opening of a liquid container, wherein a valve is arranged in a valve holder at the bottom of the liquid container to open and close the outlet opening, and wherein a cartridge is arranged on top of the valve as a unit to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid before it leaves the liquid container, wherein the valve adapter is arranged between the valve and the cartridge and fits onto the valve to close or open the valve depending on a desired valve state, wherein the valve adapter is multi-part and comprises:

[0009] - a cylindrical base body with an axial opening along its cylindrical axis, open at its first and second ends, the first end facing the cartridge and the second end facing the bottom of the liquid container, the cylindrical base body being shaped in a suitable manner to fit into the valve holder and to enclose and retain the valve within the cylindrical base body by means of an interference fit or friction fit, and

[0010] - an actuating means that can be connected to the cylindrical base body around its first open end and in particular projects radially outwards relative to the cylindrical base body, wherein the actuating means is shaped in such a way that it exerts an opening force perpendicular to the bottom of the liquid container, which pulls the valve away from the bottom of the liquid container in a press fit or friction fit with the cylindrical base body.

[0011] According to the invention, the outlet opening of the liquid container can be opened or closed via the valve. This valve can be controlled and / or actuated by other components that can interact with the valve. Within the scope of the present invention, the valve adapter is such a component that can interact with the valve to move the valve into either the "open" or "closed" state. The valve holder is the part of the liquid container in which the valve is arranged and held. The valve can move freely within the valve holder, at least in a substantially perpendicular direction relative to the bottom of the liquid container. Depending on the desired valve state, the valve adapter can either open or close the valve, with these valve states being achieved within the valve holder.The open state allows the flow of treated and / or filtered liquid through the outlet opening of the liquid container, while the closed state blocks the flow. The term "gravity-driven flow" means that the flow through the outlet opening occurs due to the liquid's own weight, without the use of pumps or the application of additional pressure to the liquid. The valve can have any shape, provided there is sufficient space between the valve and the valve holder to accommodate the valve adapter. According to the invention, the valve adapter is designed in multiple parts, particularly two parts, and comprises a cylindrical base body and an actuating element, preferably annular.The cylindrical base body is shaped to fit into the valve holder, enclosing and holding the valve within the cylindrical base body by means of an interference fit or frictional connection. The interference fit allows the valve to be lifted securely without slipping out of the press fit, which is created, for example, by frictional force between the base body and the valve. The holding force of the interference fit can be influenced by adapting the diameter of the cylindrical base body to the valve dimensions, by selecting the material of the cylindrical base body, and by the roughness of its inner surface. For deflecting, actuating, or closing the valve, the valve adapter has an actuating element that can be connected to the cylindrical base body. The actuating element can be either annular or have a polygonal cross-section.According to the invention, the actuating element is shaped such that it exerts an opening force perpendicular to the bottom of the liquid container, causing the valve to be pulled away from or upwards of the liquid container. It should be noted that even a slight deflection of the valve is sufficient to allow flow from the outlet opening. According to the invention, the actuating element and the cylindrical body can be connected to one another, preferably by force-fit, form-fit, or material-fit connection. The cartridge is to be understood as a unit and, according to the invention, serves to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid before it leaves the liquid container. The cartridge can have any suitable shape to be inserted into the liquid container.

[0012] The main advantage of the present valve adapter according to the invention lies in its multi-part design. On the one hand, the valve adapter offers a simple and reliable actuation mechanism for the valve, suitable for opening and closing the outlet. On the other hand, the multi-part design of the valve adapter simplifies manufacturing, as the base body and the actuating element can be produced according to their specific requirements. For example, a different material, particularly a more elastic one, can be selected for the actuating element than for the base body. Furthermore, the actuating element can have a higher component complexity, which is easier to manufacture without the base body. Another advantage of the multi-part valve adapter is that, in the event of damage to the actuating element, it can be replaced more easily.

[0013] Preferably, the actuating element consists at least partially of an elastic material. More preferably, the actuating element and the cylindrical base body are not made of the same material. The cylindrical base body should be designed so that it can be slid over the valve, allowing for minimal stretching. The base body material can be any material that is sufficiently stretchable to allow the cylindrical base body to be slid over the valve.

[0014] The term "liquid" refers to any type of substance in a liquid state that can be purified or at least partially freed from unwanted substances through filtration. Examples of substances that can be consumed by humans or animals, such as beverages or other liquids like water, can be described as liquids.

[0015] The term "liquid" can also refer to chemical substances and liquids that are not suitable for human consumption but can nevertheless be purified by filtration. The type of filter materials to be used depends on the liquid substances to be purified and thus on the application of the invention. Treatment of a liquid refers to any modification of the original liquid, such as chemically altering or adding substances to the water. Filtering the liquid refers to the process by which a liquid passes through pores or passages in a filter material to retain certain substances within the filter material. The container in which the liquid to be filtered is treated can have any suitable shape and be made of any suitable material.

[0016] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the actuating element comprises at least two pre-stressed elastic ribs made of an elastic material, which project from a second, bottom-facing side of the actuating element towards the bottom of the liquid container. Preferably, the elastic ribs are arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body. The pre-stressed ribs preferably exert a force (opening force) directed away from the bottom of the liquid container onto the top of the valve holder. The force exerted by the pre-stressed elastic ribs is preferably directed vertically towards the bottom of the liquid container and pulls the valve, which is pressed onto the cylindrical base body, away from the bottom of the liquid container.The force exerted by the ribs on the valve holder can be transmitted to the valve via the connection between the actuator and the base body, and then via the connection between the base body and the valve. The term "pre-stressed" means that the elastic ribs maintain their shape and position even when not in contact with external components such as the valve holder. Upon contact with an external component, in this case the valve holder, the ribs deform and preferentially exert a restoring force to return to their original position. This restoring force can be used to open the valve. The ribs offer a simple and reliable way to actuate the valve.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the actuating element has one or more elastic projections arranged between the actuating element and the valve holder. These projections can, for example, be individual small rubber elements or one large rubber element that generates an opening force on the valve.

[0018] In another embodiment, the elastic ribs are arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body. This symmetrical arrangement of the ribs allows for the generation of an evenly distributed force, thus preventing jamming caused by uneven force acting on the valve. For example, a tilted valve could exert frictional forces on the valve holder, counteracting the holding and opening forces of the valve holder. A tilted valve could even act against the press fit of the cylindrical base body, which in the worst case could lead to a loss of the press fit, something that should be avoided.

[0019] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the elastic ribs exert the opening force on an upper surface of the valve holder of the liquid container. The upper surface of the valve holder faces the actuating element, in particular the ribs projecting from the actuating element. The valve holder secures the valve internally via an interference fit or frictional connection. Since the valve holder is rigidly connected to the bottom of the container, the force generated (opening force) acts directly on the valve holder, pulling the valve out of the lower container and thus opening it. Preferably, the dimensions of the valve holder of the container are known, enabling the elastic ribs to exert a vertical force of a predefined magnitude on the valve holder and consequently on the valve.Therefore, the application of the tensile force to the top of the valve holder can advantageously be precisely designed to move and hold the valve in an open position.

[0020] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the actuating means has one or more recesses that follow the contour of the elastic ribs, so that the elastic ribs can be embedded in the recesses when a vertical force is applied to the actuating means, and / or the actuating means has three elastically pre-stressed ribs that are arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body, and / or the elastic ribs have a shape that follows the contour of the cylindrical base body. The pre-stress of the elastic ribs can significantly influence the magnitude of the tensile force or the opening force generated by the ribs.The recesses in the actuating element preferably increase the geometric range for using the valve adapter on various valve holders (or other surfaces on which the vertical force is exerted) or when there are different distances between the upper surface of the valve holder and the bottom of the fluid reservoir. As a result, the valve adapter can be adapted to a variety of geometric shapes of the lower fluid reservoir and the valve holder while still providing the necessary force to open the valve. The three elastic ribs preferably prevent the actuating element from jamming when the tensile force acts on a specific surface, e.g., the upper surface of the valve holder.

[0021] Preferably, the elastic ribs have a shape that follows the contour of the cylindrical base body. Advantageously, the ribs then do not extend beyond the outer contour of the actuating element in a radial direction from the cylinder axis of the cylindrical body. The present valve adapter can thus be designed to be particularly compact, and snagging by elements extending beyond the contour of the actuating element is prevented. The corresponding valve holder can therefore also be a particularly compact device whose radial outer dimensions are preferably largely defined by the actuating element, which facilitates handling when sliding the valve adapter onto the valve. The valve adapter is slid over the valve to achieve an interference fit.

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the valve adapter enables the valve to close when a closing force, acting perpendicularly towards the bottom of the liquid container and compensating for the opening force of the actuating element, is applied. Preferably, the closing force is greater than or equal to the opening force, so that the valve is subsequently pressed towards the bottom of the liquid container. The valve can be closed by the elastic material of the ribs or the actuating element, which can be bent or guided into the closed position when a vertical force is applied to the actuating element. The closing force is preferably greater than the elastic force exerted by the ribs or the actuating element, so that the valve can be closed.If the actuating element has recesses in the form of elastic ribs, the ribs can be pressed into these recesses and enclosed by them until the underside of the actuating element is in contact with a counter surface, such as the surface of the valve holder. Thus, the actuating element, in conjunction with the cylindrical base body (the entire valve adapter), can initially move downwards towards the bottom of the fluid reservoir, thereby also moving the valve downwards into a closed position. During this process, the ribs are preferably pressed into the recesses of the actuating element.

[0023] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cylindrical base body has one or more slots parallel to its cylindrical axis, dividing the cylindrical base body into sub-bodies that are elastically movable relative to one another, at least in the region of the slots. Preferably, the slots extend from the second end of the cylindrical base body to the first end without reaching the first end. Particularly preferably, the slots terminate at the same height relative to the cylindrical axis where the elastic ribs have their maximum distance to the second side of the actuating element. The slots advantageously provide additional clearance to allow the same cylindrical base body to be used on valves with slightly different radial dimensions. The slots also allow the material of the base body to expand radially to a certain extent in the case of larger valves.Therefore, the slot(s) allow the same valve adapter to be used for valves with slightly different dimensions. The multi-part design of the valve adapter is particularly advantageous here. The actuator is preferably precisely adapted to the respective valve and valve holder, with the cylindrical base body being compatible with multiple valve holders or valves. This allows the cylindrical base body to be produced simply and cost-effectively, and the actuator to be precisely designed for each specific application.

[0024] In another embodiment, the slots extend from the second end of the cylindrical base body towards the first end, without reaching it. The remaining area of ​​the cylindrical body without slots improves the mechanical robustness of the valve adapter. The robust upper section of the cylindrical base body helps to apply a predefined vertical force through the elastic ribs, as deformation of the cylindrical base body is prevented or significantly reduced.

[0025] In another embodiment, the slots terminate at the same height level with respect to the cylinder axis, with the elastic ribs having their maximum distance to the second side (the side facing the bottom of the container) of the annular plate. Slots terminating at the same height can advantageously provide a symmetrical press fit to the valve, independent of the area of ​​the valve adapter.

[0026] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the cylindrical base body is connected to the actuating element via an interference fit or friction fit, wherein the cylindrical base body is made of a plastic material, preferably polypropylene, and the actuating element is made of an elastomer. The actuating element can be made of an elastomer, which, due to its elastic properties, can be compressed and then return to its original shape. Thus, the elastomer can serve to generate the opening and closing forces and simultaneously represents a simple component. Preferably, the cylindrical base body has an upper limiting element that clamps the actuating element between the limiting element and the valve holder. This allows the actuating element to be deformed in a controlled manner.Furthermore, the actuating element can have a receiving hole, with the cylindrical base body arranged in the receiving hole so that the side of the actuating element facing the cartridge is limited at the top by the limiting element. Depending on the application, the cylindrical base body can be made of a different material, preferably a material with lower elastic properties. If the material for the cylindrical base body is selected to be too elastic, this can negatively affect the press fit or the frictional connection with the valve.

[0027] A further object of the invention is a liquid treatment system comprising a first liquid reservoir with an outlet opening for draining a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid, a valve arranged in a valve holder on the bottom of a first liquid container for opening and closing the outlet opening, a cartridge arranged on the valve for treating and / or filtering untreated and / or unfiltered liquids before they leave the first liquid container, and a valve adapter according to one of the preceding embodiments, configured to fit the valve between the cartridge and the valve for regulating a gravity-driven flow of treated or filtered liquid from the outlet opening by closing or opening the valve.The valve can be switched to the open or closed position as needed.

[0028] The first liquid container can hold the liquid to be treated and / or filtered by the cartridge and can have any suitable shape, as long as it is suitable for integration into the liquid treatment system. The cartridge is preferably shaped to fit inside the first liquid container above the valve to prevent untreated or unpurified liquid from escaping the first liquid container through the valve. The cartridge seat is preferably tight enough to prevent bypass flow of liquid along the outside of the cartridge. The first liquid container can be made of any suitable material. In one embodiment, the first liquid container is made of a transparent material so that the user can, for example, check the liquid level in the container.The first liquid container can be made from a plastic, which is particularly cost-efficient, flexible in production and lightweight.

[0029] The liquid treatment system according to the present invention is a liquid treatment system in which a mechanism for the valve is provided for the simple and reliable opening and closing of the outlet opening and uses cost-effective components.

[0030] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first liquid container has a cartridge compartment arranged in such a way that it seals the inserted cartridge in a liquid-tight manner and prevents untreated and / or unfiltered liquid from flowing out of the outlet opening. The shape of the cartridge compartment can be adapted to the cartridge in such a way that a liquid-tight connection is created between the cartridge and the cartridge compartment, and advantageously, no untreated and / or unfiltered liquid can flow past the cartridge. In this way, the quality of the filtration can be improved.

[0031] The processing quality of the liquid will be increased.

[0032] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first liquid container comprises a closure lid for sealing the first liquid container. Preferably, the closure lid includes a closable opening for refilling the first reservoir with untreated and / or unfiltered liquid. The closure lid advantageously prevents liquid from escaping from the first liquid container through its top, even when the liquid treatment system is transported from one location to another. Furthermore, the closable opening allows the liquid container to be filled with additional liquid to be processed without completely opening the liquid treatment system.

[0033] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a second liquid container is provided for collecting and storing treated liquid that has been filtered in the first liquid container. Preferably, the second liquid container is shaped at its open upper end to receive and hold the first liquid container. The second liquid container can have any shape that provides sufficient volume for collecting the liquid. A compromise can be found between the portability or weight of the liquid container and its capacity. A small capacity is particularly advantageous for easy portability, and vice versa.The bottom of the second liquid container can be spaced apart from the bottom of the first liquid container, with the two bottoms being arranged substantially parallel to each other, and the second liquid container can preferably accommodate the first liquid container.

[0034] In one embodiment, the second liquid container is made of a transparent material so that a user can easily check the liquid level in the second container. The second liquid container can be made of plastic because plastic is inexpensive, allows for flexible manufacturing, and is lightweight.

[0035] In another embodiment, the second liquid container is shaped at its upper, open side to receive and hold the first liquid container. The resulting liquid treatment system can be handled and transported as a single unit, thereby reducing the risk of loss of one or both types of liquid (treated and untreated, or filtered and unfiltered).

[0036] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first and second liquid containers are shaped such that the first liquid container seals the second liquid container in a liquid-tight manner, preventing untreated and / or unfiltered liquids from flowing into the second liquid container from above. Preferably, the second liquid container includes a spout for transferring treated and / or filtered liquid into an external vessel, the spout having only one liquid connection with the second liquid container. Preferably, the second liquid container accommodates the first liquid container in such a way that no untreated and / or unfiltered liquid can bypass the first liquid container and enter the second liquid container.Furthermore, the second liquid container can have a spout for pouring treated and / or filtered liquid into an external container. In this case, the liquid treatment system can be used as a tabletop liquid container, directly supplying the user with processed liquid. The shape of the spout can be adapted to the specific application.

[0037] Another object of the invention is a liquid treatment set for building a liquid treatment system according to one of the preceding embodiments, comprising

[0038] - a first liquid container with a valve holder at the bottom of the first liquid container and an outlet opening for releasing a flow of treated and / or filtered liquid by gravity from the first liquid container,

[0039] - a valve that can be inserted into the valve holder to open and close the outlet opening,

[0040] - a cartridge shaped to be placed on the valve to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid before it leaves the first liquid container, and

[0041] - a valve adapter according to one of the preceding embodiments, which is arranged on the valve between the cartridge and the valve for regulating the flow of treated and / or filtered liquid from the outlet opening by closing or opening the valve as required, preferably with a second liquid container for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid that has been filtered in the first liquid container.

[0042] The liquid treatment set according to the present invention can be a

[0043] Liquid treatment system with a mechanism to open a valve and to

[0044] close, providing a mechanism that is simple, reliable, and particularly cost-effective using a valve adapter.

[0045] In one embodiment, the liquid treatment set further comprises a second liquid container for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid that has been filtered in the first liquid container.

[0046] The present invention further relates to a method for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid with a liquid treatment system according to one of the preceding embodiments, comprising the steps:

[0047] - Providing a first liquid container with an outlet opening at the bottom of the first liquid container, wherein a valve is arranged in a valve holder at the bottom of the first liquid container for opening and closing the outlet opening;

[0048] - Attaching a valve adapter according to one of the preceding embodiments to the valve;

[0049] - Placing a cartridge, as a unit for flow treatment and filtration of untreated and / or unfiltered liquids, into the first liquid container, liquid-tight onto the valve adapter so that no untreated and / or unfiltered liquid flows out of the outlet opening;

[0050] - Pouring untreated and / or unfiltered liquid into the first liquid container; and

[0051] - Use of a second liquid container for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid that has been treated and / or filtered by the cartridge and is drained from the first liquid container through the outlet opening of the first liquid container, preferably further comprising the step of pouring the treated and / or filtered liquid from the second liquid container into an external vessel via a spout of the second liquid container.

[0052] In another embodiment, the method further comprises the step of pouring the treated and / or filtered liquid from the second liquid container into an external vessel via a spout of the second liquid container into an external vessel.

[0053] The present invention further relates to the use of a valve adapter according to one of the preceding embodiments in a liquid treatment system to discharge at least one flow of treated and / or filtered liquid from a liquid container, with a cartridge as a unit for flow treatment and / or filtration of the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid before the flow of the treated and / or filtered liquid from the liquid container.

[0054] The embodiments described above can be combined with one another as desired by a person skilled in the art within the framework of the teaching according to the invention, even in deviation from the references to the claims.

[0055] The same advantages and effects can be achieved in the liquid treatment system, liquid treatment set, method for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid, and the use of a valve adapter as have already been described in connection with the valve adapter according to the invention. The preferred embodiments and features explained in connection with the valve adapter can also be applied individually or in combination to the liquid treatment system, liquid treatment set, method for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid, and the use of a valve adapter.

[0056] Further details and advantages of the invention will be explained below with reference to the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings. This shows:

[0057] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the valve adapter according to the present invention in a perspective view (a), (b) a side view and in (c) and (d) the individual parts of the valve adapter;

[0058] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of the liquid treatment system according to the present invention (a) in a side view, and (b) in an enlarged sectional view of the bottom (on the inside) of the first liquid container of the liquid treatment system.

[0059] Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the cartridge with integrated valve adapter according to the present invention;

[0060] Fig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the valve adapter according to the invention in a schematic side view; Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the liquid treatment set for the treatment and / or filtration of liquids according to the present invention;

[0061] Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the method for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid according to the present invention; and

[0062] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of the valve adapter according to the invention in a schematic side view.

[0063] Detailed description of the embodiments

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a first embodiment of the multi-part valve adapter 1 according to the present invention in (a) a connected state in a perspective view and (b) a connected state in a side view, as well as the individual parts of the multi-part valve adapter 1 in Fig. 1c) and d). Fig. 1c) shows the cylindrical base body 11 separately and Fig. 1d) shows the actuating element 12 separately. The valve adapter 1 serves to regulate a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid FL through an outlet opening 23 of a liquid container 2.According to the invention, a valve 3 is arranged in a valve holder 21 on a base 22 of a liquid container 2 to open and close an outlet opening 23 of the liquid container 2, wherein a cartridge 4 is arranged on top of the valve 3 as a unit to treat and / or filter untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL before it leaves the liquid container 2 (see Fig. 2).

[0065] The valve adapter 1 is designed to be positioned between the cartridge 4 and the valve 3 and to fit onto the valve 3 in order to close or open the valve 3 according to the desired valve state. The valve adapter 1 is multi-part, preferably two-part, and according to the invention comprises a cylindrical base body 11 with an axial hole along a cylindrical axis CA, which is open to a first and second end 11a, 11b of the base body 11, wherein the first end 11a faces the cartridge 4 and the second end 11b faces the bottom 22 of the liquid container 2. The cylindrical base body 11 is advantageously shaped to be arranged within the valve holder 21 so that it can enclose and hold the valve 3. For this purpose, the valve 3 is enclosed within the cylindrical base body 11 by means of an interference fit or a friction fit.

[0066] Furthermore, the valve adapter 1 has an actuating element 12, which is shown in Fig. 1 as being of an annular shape. According to the invention, this actuating element 12 can be connected to the cylindrical base body 11 around its first open end 11a, preferably by means of a force-fit, form-fit, or material-fit connection, and in the first embodiment extends radially outwards relative to the cylindrical base body 11. The actuating element 12 is shaped such that it can exert a vertical opening force F2 on the bottom of the liquid container 2, whereby this opening force F2 is transmitted via the cylindrical base body 11 to the valve 3, so that the cylindrical base body 11 with the valve 3 is pulled away from the bottom 22 of the liquid container 2. This allows the valve 3 to be moved into an open valve state.

[0067] The actuating means 12 preferably comprises at least partially elastic materials, which can generate the opening force, in particular, by means of deformation in combination with a preload of the elastic materials. In the first embodiment shown, the actuating means has three preloaded elastic ribs 13, arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body, as an elastic material, which project towards the bottom 22 of the liquid container 2 from a second side 12b of the actuating means 12 facing the bottom 22 of the liquid container 2. The elastic ribs 13 are in particular preloaded and generate an opening force on an upper surface 21 of the valve holder 21 of the liquid container 2, which presses the valve adapter 1 in the direction of arrow F2. This leads, through the press fit or frictional engagement between the base body 11 and the valve 3, to the deflection of the valve 3 also in the direction of F2.

[0068] As can be seen from Fig. 1a), the actuating element 12 has three recesses 14, each following the contours of the three individual elastic ribs 13, so that the elastic ribs 13 can be embedded (recessed) into the recesses 14 when a vertical force F1 acts on the annular plate 12. The elastic ribs 13 have a shape that follows the contour of the cylindrical base body 11. The valve adapter 1 enables the valve 3 to be closed by the closing force F1, which acts perpendicularly on the actuating plate 12 in the direction of the bottom 22 of the fluid reservoir 2, pressing the elastic material, preferably the elastic ribs 13, against the actuating plate 12 and preferably into the recesses 14. To close the valve 3, the closing force F1 is preferably greater than or equal to the opening force F2. When valve 3 is in a closed state, it is sufficient that the closing force F1 is equal to the opening force F2.In an open state of valve 3, in order to close valve 3, the closing force F1 must be greater than the opening force F2.

[0069] In the first embodiment, the cylindrical base body 11 has three slots 15 parallel to its cylinder axis CA, which divide the cylindrical base body 11 into three sub-bodies 111, 112, 113. Preferably, the sub-bodies 111, 112, 113 are elastically movable relative to one another, at least in the region of the slots 15 of the cylindrical base body 11. The slots 15 extend from the second end 11b of the cylindrical body 11 towards the first end 11a without reaching the first end 11a. The slots 15 terminate at the same height level of the cylinder axis CA, where the elastic ribs 13 are furthest from the second side of the actuating element 12.

[0070] According to the invention, the valve adapter 1 is designed as a multi-part assembly. Due to the different requirements for the cylindrical base body 11 and the actuating element 12, it may be desirable to select different materials for these two elements. This would not be possible, for example, with a one-piece solution. Furthermore, the actuating element 12 is more complex than the cylindrical base body 11. Separate production of these two parts can be more cost-effective and simplify manufacturing. It is also conceivable that if the actuating element 12 becomes fatigued or is destroyed over time, only it can or must be replaced. In particular, the actuating element 12 can be designed to be more elastic than the cylindrical base body 11. It can be disadvantageous for the cylindrical base body 11 if it is too elastic.This can negatively affect the press fit or frictional connection between the base body 11 and the valve 3. The valve adapter 1 preferably has a length in the range of 10 to 20 mm, more preferably 12 to 18 mm, and particularly preferably 14 to 16 mm, along the cylinder axis CA. Furthermore, the cylindrical body preferably has an inner diameter in the range of 7.5 to 10 mm and an outer diameter in the range of 90 to 100 mm. The actuating element preferably has a diameter in the radial direction from the cylindrical axis in the range of 15 to 25 mm and a thickness of 1 to 3 mm. The slots 15 are particularly long in the range of 8 to 12 mm. The elastic ribs 13 preferably have a width in the range of 1 to 3 mm perpendicular to the cylinder axis CA and a comparable height parallel to the cylinder axis.

[0071] Fig. 2 shows an embodiment of the liquid treatment system 10 according to the present invention (a) in a side view and (b) in an enlarged sectional view of the bottom 22 (on the inside) of the first liquid container 2 of the liquid treatment system 10. The liquid treatment system 10 comprises a first liquid container 2 with an outlet opening 23 for draining a gravity-driven flow of treated and filtered liquid FL, a valve 3 arranged in a valve holder 21 on a bottom 22 of the first liquid container 2 for opening and closing the outlet opening 23, and a cartridge 4 arranged on the valve 3 that treats and / or filters the liquid NL before it leaves the first liquid container 2.Furthermore, the liquid treatment system 10 has a valve adapter 1 according to the invention, which fits onto the valve 3 and is arranged between the cartridge 4 and the valve 3 in order to regulate the flow of the treated and / or filtered liquid FL by gravity from the outlet opening 23 through the valve 3 as required. This can be done by opening and closing the valve, depending on its condition.

[0072] The first liquid container 2 can further comprise a cartridge compartment 24, which is arranged to enclose the inserted cartridge 4 in a liquid-tight manner and thus prevent untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL from flowing out of the outlet opening 23. In the illustrated embodiment, the first liquid container 2 includes a closure lid 25 for closing the first liquid container 2 at the top. This closure lid 25 has a closable opening 25a for filling with untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL.

[0073] The liquid treatment system 10 further comprises a second liquid container 20 for collecting and storing treated liquid FL, which has been treated and / or filtered by the cartridge 4 and flows from the outlet opening 23 of the first liquid container 2 into the second liquid container 20. The second liquid container 20 is shaped at its upper open side 20a to receive and hold the first liquid container 2. Furthermore, the first and second liquid containers 2, 20 are shaped such that the first liquid container 2 contains the second liquid container 20 in a liquid-tight manner, preventing untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL from flowing into the second liquid container 20 from above. The second liquid container 20 includes a spout 20b for transferring treated and / or filtered liquid FL into an external container 30 for liquids FL.The spout 20b has only a direct liquid connection to the second liquid container 20, and not to the first liquid container 2. Fig. 2b shows the arrangement of the valve adapter 1 on the valve 3.

[0074] Fig. 3 shows an embodiment of the first liquid container 2 with an inserted cartridge 4, wherein the valve adapter 1 according to the invention is arranged below the cartridge 4. The cartridge 4 can have a cartridge recess 42 at its base, which is suitable for receiving the valve adapter 1 mounted on top of the valve 3 without contact. Thus, no downward force is exerted on the valve adapter 1 that would prevent the valve adapter 1 from opening.

[0075] Fig. 4 shows a second schematic embodiment of the valve adapter 1. Here, the actuating element 12 is designed as an elastomer and enables the opening and closing of the valve via the elastic behavior of the elastomer (through compression and restoring forces). The actuating element 12 can be slid onto the cylindrical base body 11 via a press fit or friction fit. Alternatively, the actuating element 12 can be bonded to the cylindrical base body 11. To prevent the actuating element 12 from sliding upwards from the cylindrical base body 11 towards the first end 11 of the cartridge 4, the base body can have an upper limiting element 11'. The upper limiting element 11' extends radially outwards relative to the cylindrical base body 11, so that sliding down on this side is not possible for the actuating element 12.A force can be exerted on the actuating means 12 via the limiting element 11 ' and vice versa.

[0076] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the liquid treatment kit 50 according to the present invention, with which a user can set up a liquid treatment system 10 according to the present invention. For this purpose, the liquid treatment kit 50 has a first liquid container 2 with a valve holder 21 on a base 22 of the first liquid container 2 and an outlet opening 23 for releasing a flow of treated and filtered liquids FL by gravity from the first liquid container 2. Furthermore, the liquid treatment kit 50 comprises a valve 3, which can be inserted into the valve holder 21 to open and close the outlet opening 23, and a cartridge 4, which is shaped to be arranged on the valve 3 to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL before it leaves the first liquid container 2.Furthermore, the liquid treatment set 50 comprises a valve adapter 1 according to the invention, which fits onto the valve 3 and is arranged between the cartridge 4 and the valve 3 in order to regulate the flow of the treated and / or filtered liquid FL from the outlet opening 23 by opening or closing the valve 3. The liquid treatment set 50 also further comprises a second liquid container 20 for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid FL, which was introduced into the first liquid container 2 as untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL.

[0077] Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the method 100 according to the present invention for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid FL with the liquid treatment system 10 according to the invention, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0078] - Providing 110 of a first liquid container 2 with an outlet opening 23 at the bottom 22 of the first liquid container 2, wherein a valve 3 is arranged in a valve holder 21 at a bottom 22 of the liquid container 2 to open or close the outlet opening;

[0079] - Placing 120 of a valve adapter 1 according to the invention onto the valve 3;

[0080] - Place 130 of a cartridge 4, as a unit for flow treatment and filtration of untreated and / or unfiltered liquids NL into the first liquid container 2, liquid-tight onto the valve adapter 1, so that no untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL flows out of the outlet opening 23;

[0081] - Pour 140 of untreated and / or unfiltered liquid NL into the first liquid container 2;

[0082] - Use 150 of a second liquid container 20 for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid FL, which has been treated and / or filtered by the cartridge 4 and is drained from the first liquid container 2 through the outlet opening 23 of the first liquid container 2, preferably further comprising pouring 160 of the treated and / or filtered liquid FL from the second liquid container 2 into an external vessel 30 via a pouring spout 20b. The pouring 160 comprises collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid FL through the second liquid container 20.

[0083] Fig. 7 shows a third embodiment of the valve adapter 1 according to the invention. The third embodiment of the valve adapter 1 differs from the second embodiment of the valve adapter 1 in that the third embodiment of the valve adapter 1 does not require an upper limiting element 11'. The actuating element 12 can be fixed solely by means of the press fit or frictional engagement between the actuating element 12 and the cylindrical base body 11, such that slippage is impossible or only possible with considerable force. Alternatively or additionally, the actuating element 12 can be bonded to the base body 11. Furthermore, alternatively or additionally, the cylindrical base body 11 can taper slightly from the second end 11b to the first end 11.The actuating element 12 can be pushed onto the base body 11 via the first end 11, and the tapered section creates a stronger press fit or frictional connection between the actuating element 12 and the cylindrical base body 11. It should be noted that the tapering is negligible relative to the dimensions of the base body 11, so that despite the tapering, the base body 11 can still be considered cylindrical. In the present third embodiment, the actuating element 12 can be designed as an elastomer.

[0084] Reference symbol list

[0085] 1 valve adapter

[0086] 2 first liquid container

[0087] 3 valve

[0088] 4 cartridges

[0089] 10 Liquid treatment system

[0090] 11 cylindrical base bodies

[0091] 11' Boundary element

[0092] 11a first end of the cylindrical base body

[0093] 11b second end of the cylindrical base body

[0094] 111 T Partial body of the cylindrical base body

[0095] 112 T Partial body of the cylindrical base body

[0096] 113 T Partial body of the cylindrical base body

[0097] 12 Actuators

[0098] 12a first side of the actuating device

[0099] 12b second side of the actuating device

[0100] 13 pre-stressed elastic ribs

[0101] 14 Exclusion

[0102] 15 slots

[0103] 20 second liquid container

[0104] 20a upper open side of the second liquid container

[0105] 20b Pouring spout

[0106] 21 Valve bracket

[0107] 21a upper surface of the valve holder

[0108] 22 Bottom of the liquid container

[0109] 23 Outlet opening

[0110] 24 cartridge compartments

[0111] 25 sealing caps

[0112] 25a lockable opening

[0113] 30 external vessel

[0114] 41 lower side of the cartridge

[0115] 42 Cartridge recess

[0116] 50 Liquid processing kit

[0117] 100 methods for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid

[0118] 110 Providing a liquid container 120 Attaching the valve adapter

[0119] 130 Mounting the cartridge

[0120] 140 Filling with untreated and / or unfiltered liquid

[0121] 150 Use of a second liquid container

[0122] 160 Pouring out the treated and / or filtered liquid

[0123] CA cylindrical axis

[0124] F1 Closing force

[0125] F2 Opening force

[0126] FL treated and / or filtered liquid

[0127] NL untreated and / or unfiltered liquid

Claims

Patent claims 1. Valve adapter (1) for controlling a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) by gravity from an outlet opening (23) of a liquid container (2), wherein a valve (3) is arranged in a valve holder (21) on a base (22) of the liquid container (2) to open and close the outlet opening (23), and wherein a cartridge (4) is arranged on top of the valve (3) as a unit to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) before it leaves the liquid container (2), wherein the valve adapter (1) is arranged between the valve (3) and the cartridge (4) and fits onto the valve (3) to close or open the valve (3) depending on a desired valve state, characterized in that the valve adapter (1) is multi-part and comprises: - a cylindrical base body (11) with an axial opening along its cylindrical axis (CA) which is open at its first and second ends (11a, 11b), wherein the first end (11a) faces the cartridge (4) and the second end (11b) faces the bottom (22) of the liquid container (2), wherein the cylindrical base body (11) is shaped in a suitable manner to fit into the valve holder (21) and to enclose and retain the valve (3) within the cylindrical base body (11) by an interference fit or friction fit, and - an actuating means (12) which can be connected to the cylindrical base body (11) around its first open end (11a) and in particular projects radially outwards relative to the cylindrical base body (11), wherein the actuating means (12) is shaped such that it exerts an opening force (F2) perpendicular to the bottom of the liquid container (2) which pulls the valve (3) away from the bottom (22) of the liquid container (2) in a press fit or friction fit with the cylindrical base body (11).

2. Valve adapter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the actuating means (12) has at least two pre-stressed elastic ribs (13) as an elastic material extending from a second floor-facing side (12b) of the actuating means (12) towards the floor (22) of the liquid container (2), preferably the elastic ribs (13) are arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body (11).

3. Valve adapter (1) according to claim 2, wherein the elastic ribs (13) exert the opening force (F2) on an upper surface of the valve holder (21a) of the liquid container (2).

4. Valve adapter (1) according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the actuating means (12) has one or more recesses (14) that follow the contour of the elastic ribs (13) so that the elastic ribs (13) can be embedded in the recesses (14) when a vertical force (F1) is applied to the actuating means (12), and / or the actuating means (12) has three elastic prestressed ribs (13) that are arranged symmetrically around the cylindrical base body (11), and / or the elastic ribs (13) have a shape that follows the contour of the cylindrical base body (11).

5. Valve adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the valve adapter (1) enables the valve (3) to close when a closing force (F1) acting perpendicularly on the actuating means (12) in the direction of the bottom (22) of the liquid container (2) and compensating the opening force (F2) of the actuating means (12), preferably the closing force (F1) is greater than or equal to the opening force (F2), so that subsequently the valve (3) is pressed in the direction of the bottom (22) of the liquid container (2).

6. Valve adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cylindrical base body (11) has one or more slots (15) parallel to its cylindrical axis (CA) which divide the cylindrical base body (11) into sub-bodies (111, 112, 113) which are elastically movable relative to each other at least in the region of the slots (15), preferably the slots (15) extend from the second end (11b) of the cylindrical base body (11) to the first end (11a) without reaching the first end (11a), particularly preferably the slots (15) terminate with respect to the cylindrical axis (CA) at the same height level where the elastic ribs (13) have their maximum distance to the second side (12b) of the actuating means (12).

7. Valve adapter (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the cylindrical base body (11) is connected to the actuating means (12) via a press fit or friction fit, wherein the cylindrical base body (11) is made of a plastic material, preferably made of polypropylene, and the actuating element (12) consists of an elastomer.

8. Liquid treatment system (10) comprising a first liquid reservoir (2) with an outlet opening (23) for discharging a gravity-driven flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL), a valve (3) arranged in a valve holder (21) on a base (22) of a first liquid reservoir (2) for opening and closing the outlet opening (23), a cartridge (4) arranged on the valve (3) for treating and / or filtering untreated and / or unfiltered liquids (NL) before leaving the first liquid reservoir (2), and a valve adapter (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, configured to fit onto the valve (3) between the cartridge (4) and the valve (3) for regulating a gravity-driven flow of treated or filtered liquid (FL) from the outlet opening (23) by closing or opening the valve (3).

9. Liquid treatment system (10) according to claim 8, wherein the first liquid container (2) has a cartridge compartment (24) arranged in such a way that it encloses the inserted cartridge (4) in a liquid-tight manner and prevents the outflow of untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) from the outlet opening (23).

10. Liquid treatment system (10) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first liquid container (2) comprises a closure lid (25) for closing the first liquid container (2), preferably the closure lid (25) comprises a closable opening (25a) for refilling untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) into the first storage container (2).

11. Liquid treatment system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 10, further comprising a second liquid container (20) for collecting and storing treated liquid (FL) that has been filtered in the first liquid container (2), preferably the second liquid container (20) is shaped at its upper open side (20a) such that it receives and holds the first liquid container (2).

12. Liquid treatment system (10) according to claim 11, wherein the first and the second liquid containers (2, 20) are suitably shaped such that the first liquid container (2) seals the second liquid container (20) in a liquid-tight manner, so that untreated and / or unfiltered liquids (NL) cannot flow from above into the second liquid container (20), preferably the second liquid container (20) comprises a Pouring nozzle (20b) for transferring treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) into an external vessel (30), wherein the pouring nozzle (20b) has only one liquid connection with the second liquid container (20).

13. Liquid treatment set (50) for constructing a liquid treatment system (10) according to one of claims 8 to 12, comprising - a first liquid container (2) with a valve holder (21) on a base (22) of the first liquid container (2) and an outlet opening (23) for releasing a flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) by gravity from the first liquid container (2), - a valve (3) that can be inserted into the valve holder (21) to open and close the outlet opening (23), - a cartridge (4) shaped to be placed on the valve (3) to treat and / or filter the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) before it leaves the first liquid container (2), and - a valve adapter (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, which is arranged on the valve (3) between the cartridge (4) and the valve (3) for regulating the flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) from the outlet opening (23) by closing or opening the valve (3) as required, preferably with a second liquid container (20) for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) that has been filtered in the first liquid container (2).

14. Method (100) for receiving treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) with a liquid preparation system (10) according to any one of claims 8 to 12, comprising the steps: - Providing (110) a first liquid container (2) with an outlet opening (23) at the bottom (22) of the first liquid container (2), wherein a valve (3) is arranged in a valve holder (21) at the bottom (22) of the first liquid container (2) for opening and closing the outlet opening (23); - Attaching (120) a valve adapter (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7 to the valve (3); - Placing (130) a cartridge (4) as a unit for flow treatment and filtration of untreated and / or unfiltered liquids (NL) into the first liquid container (2), liquid-tight onto the valve adapter (1) so that no untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) flows out of the outlet opening (23); - Pouring (140) untreated and / or unfiltered liquid into the first liquid container (2); and - Use (150) of a second liquid container (20) for collecting and storing treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) that has been treated and / or filtered by the cartridge (4) and is drained from the first liquid container (2) through the outlet opening (23) of the first liquid container (2), preferably further comprising the step (160) of pouring the treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) from the second liquid container (20) into an external vessel (30) via a pouring nozzle (20b) of the second liquid container (20).

15. Use of a valve adapter (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 in a liquid treatment system (10) to discharge at least one flow of treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) from a liquid container (2), with a cartridge (4) as a unit for flow treatment and / or filtration of the untreated and / or unfiltered liquid (NL) before the flow of the treated and / or filtered liquid (FL) from the liquid container (2).

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