Adjustable Filter Cartridge with O-Ring Seal for Universal Pitcher Fit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water pitchers with filter cartridges suffer from inefficiencies due to precise sizing requirements, leading to incomplete water filtration, contamination risks, and unnecessary waste from replaceable cartridges that are still functional.
Innovation Solution
A filter cartridge and closure system design featuring a removable lid and cup with an O-ring seal, allowing for adjustable fit and complete water passage through a filter pod, ensuring all water passes through the filtration media and preventing contamination, with a modular design that can accommodate different pitcher dimensions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If the filter cartridge is precisely sized to fit within a predefined receptacle, then the fit between cartridge and receptacle is improved, but the adaptability to different pitcher models deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridge is designed with an adjustable height mechanism and a universal sealing system that can accommodate multiple pitcher models and receptacle depths. The cartridge can be configured to fit different尺寸的 receptacles while maintaining a precise seal, making it compatible with various pitcher brands and models rather than being limited to a single specific design
2Productivity
If the filter cartridge top is precisely aligned with the lowest portion of the upper reservoir, then complete water filtration is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridge incorporates an adjustable height mechanism that allows the cartridge top to be dynamically positioned at the correct alignment point for complete water filtration. This dynamic adjustment capability enables precise alignment without requiring complex fixed structures, as the cartridge can be easily configured to match different reservoir depths and configurations
3Reliability
If the cartridge walls completely seal against the receptacle walls, then prevention of unfiltered water flow is improved, but the ease of installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter cartridge includes pre-installed sealing elements and alignment features that are prepared in advance during manufacturing. These preliminary actions ensure that when the cartridge is installed, the sealing surfaces are already properly positioned and configured, making installation simple while maintaining reliable sealing. The sealing mechanism is designed to engage automatically upon insertion, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures during installation
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Ensures complete water filtration, reduces contamination risks, and allows for the reuse of functional filter cartridges, addressing inefficiencies and waste in conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
An O-ring seal prevents water from flowing around the filter cartridge
Implementation Method 2
When the upper reservoir is filled with water, gravity forces the water to travel down through the filter and into the lower reservoir
Implementation Method 3
Filters may employ a variety of methods to remove contaminants, including sieving, adsorption, ion exchanges, biological metabolite transfer and other processes
Data Source
AI summary
A filter cartridge and closure system is described comprising a filter cartridge for holding a filter pod that may be used, for example, to filter domestic water. In one embodiment, the filter cartridge and closure system enables the use of reusable filters in water pitchers, including reusable gravity-flow water filters.