Lever-Actuated Push-In Water Filter for Easy Cartridge Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refrigerator water filters are difficult to remove and replace due to the need for significant force and additional space, and they often require complex mechanisms for accessing and closing the filter cover, making the process cumbersome and space-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrical cartridge housing with a hinged cover and lever mechanism that allows for easy access and removal of the water filter, using a push-in type filter design with wedge and tooth protrusions to facilitate effortless extraction and reinstallation, minimizing space requirements and simplifying the replacement process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a twist-in water filter is used, then leak resistance is improved, but the force required for removal increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter assembly is segmented into a filter element and a separate cover assembly. The cover remains attached to the housing while the filter element is removed independently, allowing the sealing surfaces to remain engaged and maintain leak resistance while the filter itself can be easily replaced without twisting.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element is extracted from the cover assembly as a separate removable component. The cover with its sealing surfaces remains in the housing to maintain the seal, while the filter element is taken out for replacement without requiring forceful twisting of the entire assembly.
2Ease of operation
If a hinge-down water filter is used, then ease of removal is improved, but additional space is required and device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter system is divided into a stationary cover assembly that remains in the housing and a removable filter element. This eliminates the need for the entire filter to hinge down, requiring minimal space while maintaining ease of removal for the filter element itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter element is extracted as a separate removable component from the cover assembly. The cover remains in place within the housing, eliminating the need for additional hinging space while allowing easy access and removal of the filter element.
3Ease of operation
If a push-button cover mechanism is used, then ease of opening is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cover assembly is designed to be manually opened by the user without requiring buttons, clips, or complex fastening mechanisms. The simple open design allows users to easily access and remove the filter element without additional operational steps or complex components.
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
The solution enables quick and easy replacement of water filters with minimal space usage, reducing user effort and simplifying the process, while allowing for a universal cartridge design adaptable to various appliances and purposes.
Implementation Method 1
Attached to the cover is a hinged lever, the lever for engaging and drawing the cartridge out of the housing for replacement or removal.
Implementation Method 2
hinged lever, the lever for engaging and drawing the cartridge out of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
Described in this application is an improved cartridge, such as a water filter, and housing for the filter. The filter is preferably of the push-in type and the filter housing includes an assembly to automatically set the water filter in position as a cover over the filter is closed. According to one embodiment, the assembly consists of a cover and lever linkage which engage complimentary protrusions on the water filter.