Filter Cartridge Stem with Radial Flow and Asymmetric Key
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water filtration systems with quarter-turn devices face high removal forces due to compression on sealing components, leading to increased costs and manufacturing inefficiencies, and there is a need for designs that minimize these forces and ensure proper filter placement in manifolds.
Innovation Solution
The design of quarter-turn replaceable filter cartridges with a valve engagement member acting as a mechanical key for specific manifolds, reducing the number of manifold components from three to two, and altering water flow paths to radially acting forces, which reduces stress on the support flange and allows for secure engagement without axial forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If quarter-turn filter cartridges with axial water flow are used, then the filter can be securely engaged with the manifold, but high removal forces occur due to compression on sealing components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the traditional axial water flow direction by implementing radial water flow through the filter cartridge. This reversal of flow direction changes the compression dynamics on sealing components, allowing secure engagement while significantly reducing removal forces required during filter replacement
2Reliability
If three-component manifolds with support flanges are used, then the filter can be held in place, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the support flange function into the valve body itself, eliminating the need for a separate support flange component. The valve body is designed with integrated features that provide both structural support and filter retention, reducing the manifold from three components to two while maintaining reliable filter holding capability
Solution Approach 2:
The valve body is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as both the structural housing and the support element that retains the filter cartridge. This multi-functional design eliminates the dedicated support flange while maintaining all necessary retention and support capabilities
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical keys are added to ensure proper filter placement, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric mechanical key features on the filter cartridge stem that correspond to asymmetric recesses in the valve body. This asymmetric design ensures proper filter placement and compatibility while maintaining relatively simple structural implementation through straightforward geometric features
Data Source
AI summary
Described are filter cartridges comprising: a cartridge body and a filter media; a stem extending from the cartridge body, the stem having an inlet opening, an outlet opening, and a stem face that comprises a first valve driving surface and a second valve driving surface; and at least one lug attached to either the filter body or the stem having a leading engagement edge. The filter cartridges are suitable for translational insertion and rotational engagement of a manifold, wherein upon translation insertion, a valve engagement member of the filter cartridge engages a portion of a valve body of a manifold valve; during a first stage rotation, one or more retaining members of the filter cartridge engage a manifold cam of a manifold; and during a second stage rotation, the valve engagement member imparts rotational movement to the valve body. Systems and methods incorporating the filter cartridges are disclosed.