ITAN20100197A1 - DISPOSABLE CARTRIDGE FOR DOMESTIC WATER TREATMENT PLANTS. - Google Patents

Description

DESCRIPTION

accompanying a patent application for an industrial invention entitled:

"DISPOSABLE CARTRIDGE FOR DOMESTIC WATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS".

TEXT OF THE DESCRIPTION

The present patent application for industrial invention relates to a disposable cartridge for domestic water treatment systems.

The peculiarities and advantages of the present invention will become more evident following a description of the prior art.

The need has arisen for some time to subject the water supplied by public aqueducts to chemical or physical treatments.

For this reason, small water treatment plants are used based on the use of disposable cartridges, which, being positioned between the water network and the supply tap, are effectively able to conduct the water in the best conditions of potability.

As part of a similar operating logic, two main types of the aforementioned cartridges are envisaged, namely filter cartridges and osmotic membrane cartridges.

In both cases, similar cartridges make use of a rigid cylindrical casing (in the jargon of the sector: vessel), intended precisely to contain exactly the real operating unit (in one case the filter, in the other case the osmotic membrane ), also having a substantially cylindrical shape.

In practice, these cartridges must be grafted, perhaps in several examples, into corresponding cylindrical seats made on a special base, which is part of the respective water treatment system and therefore also part of the guided path imposed on the latter.

For a better understanding of this prior technique (or "Pii or Art"), please refer to the examination of the four attached drawing tables.

The figures included in these tables show, by way of example, a water treatment plant that uses a filter cartridge (CF) and three osmotic membrane (CM) cartridges in series, all intended to be inserted into corresponding cup seats ( 1, 2) made at a suitable base (B).

As anticipated, the filter (3) of the filter cartridge (CF) has a cylindrical shape and is intended to be housed exactly inside a respective casing (3a) with an opening facing downwards.

The osmotic membrane (4) of the aforementioned membrane cartridge (CM) also has the same cylindrical shape and is housed exactly inside a respective conforming casing (4a), open at the bottom and equipped at the top with a small access duct ( 4a ').

In particular, figure 1 shows, with a partially sectioned drawing, the aforementioned operating units (3, 4) of the four cartridges (CF, CM) in a position raised from the base (B) and still without their respective external casings, while figure 2 shows them already engaged in the aforementioned base (B), with the respective cylindrical casings (3a, 4a) drawn "in exploded view", ie in a position immediately above.

Figure 3 is a sectional drawing showing the cooperation modalities of the filtering cartridge (CF) with the respective seat (la) of the base (1).

Thanks to this graphic contribution, it can be seen that the operating unit of said cartridge (CF) consists precisely of a cylindrical filter (3) centrally equipped with an axial channel (3b) of circular section.

The lower end of said filter (3) is inserted into a cap (5) which assumes a substantially funnel-shaped profile, as it is equipped with a central cylindrical duct (5 a), projecting downwards, able to be arranged in perfect alignment with Γ aforesaid overlying axial channel (3b) of the filter itself (3).

The same figure 3 also allows you to check what is the coupling mode between the aforementioned cylindrical filter (3) and the respective outer casing (3 a).

The one and the other are mutually fixed in such a way that everything around the filter itself (3) generates the formation of an empty interspace (IN).

This same figure also shows the solution adopted to establish the aforementioned coupling between the filter cartridge (CF) and the respective cup seat (1) of the supporting base (B).

In this perspective, it is envisaged that the aforementioned duct (5a) belonging to the cap (5) applied to the bottom of the filter (3) fits exactly, from top to bottom, inside a cylindrical collar (la) which projects centrally from the bottom of the aforementioned seat (1).

A similar downward descent of the entire filter cartridge (CF) also entails that the respective casing (3 a) comes to interfere, thanks to the presence of a suitable external annular projection (3c), with the perimeter edge of the mouth of the aforementioned cup seat (1).

It should also be considered that the bottom wall of the aforementioned cup-shaped seat (1) has two ducts (lb, le) projecting downwards, the first of which (lb) is the inlet duct for the water to be filtered, while the second (le), located in correspondence with the aforementioned mouthpiece (la), is the outlet duct for the filtered water.

Well, the flow arrows inserted in or rather said figure 3 actually allow you to realize what is the circulation of water that is established between the base (B) and the filter cartridge (CM).

In fact, the water flows into the base (B) through the aforementioned inlet duct (lb), first of all filling the bottom of the respective cup seat (1), all around the aforementioned collar (la), and then gradually rises within the perimeter cavity (IN), cross the filter (3) in a radial direction, flow into the central channel (3b) of the same and flow, guided by the aforementioned duct (5a) of the funnel-shaped cap (5), into the aforesaid outlet duct (le).

It goes without saying that such a transit through the filter (3) ensures that the water is purified of all possible solid impurities.

For its part, Figure 6 shows the structure and operational set-up of an osmotic membrane (CM) cartridge.

As anticipated, the membrane (4) supplied with this cartridge (CM) also has a cylindrical shape, equally characterized by the presence of a central axial channel (4b).

This membrane (4) is installed inside the respective envelope (4a), so that the formation of a respective empty cavity (IN) is established between one and the other.

The aforesaid membrane (4) has, at the center of the two ends, as many cylindrical tubular appendages (4c, 4d) connected with its aforementioned axial channel (4b).

The lower appendix (4c) is intended to engage exactly, from top to bottom, within the collar (2a) that projects centrally from the bottom of the socket (2) intended to house the cartridge in question (CM).

For its part, the upper appendix (4d) is intended to be inserted into the aforementioned duct (4a ') which projects upwards from the center of the upper closing wall of the respective cylindrical casing (4a).

The installation of this cartridge (CM) within the respective base (B) requires that the lower end of the same, suitably threaded externally, is screwed into the corresponding internal walls, equally threaded, of the respective socket seat (2), up to the point in which there is no Γ end-of-stroke interference between the annular projection (4e) provided on the outside of the respective casing (4a) and the perimeter edge of the mouth of the same socket (2).

Upon completion of this helical coupling, there is the further consequence that the aforementioned lower tubular appendix (4c) of the aforementioned membrane (4) settles exactly inside the aforementioned collar (2a) which projects centrally from the bottom of the said socket seat (2).

It should also be considered that the bottom wall of this last seat (2) has two downwardly projecting ducts (2b, 2c), both of which exit, of which the first (2b) is made in correspondence with the aforementioned collar ( 2a) which projects on the inside of the same bottom wall and is intended to evacuate the permeated water by the membrane (4); for its part, the second (2c) occupies a decentralized position and is intended to perform the "one way" discharge of non-permeated water.

The flow arrows inserted in the attached figure 6 actually allow you to realize what is the water circulation that is established between the base (1) and the membrane cartridge (CM).

In fact, the water flows into the casing (4a) of the latter through the aforementioned top duct (4a '), directly entering the upper tubular appendix (4d) of the membrane (4).

In this way the water initially tends to penetrate into the upper section of the aforementioned central channel (4b) of the membrane itself (4), until it interferes with a special diaphragm (4f) which occludes, at about half height, the section of the same.

This implies that the water initially penetrated into said channel (4b) soon tends to fill the internal volume located upstream of the diaphragm itself (4f) and to pour out of it through two radial holes (4g) made in correspondence of the aforementioned upper tubular appendix (4d).

In this way the water is induced to assume a substantially vertical trajectory by gravity, first penetrating into the body of the aforementioned cylindrical membrane (4), and then partially flowing, in a radial direction, into the central channel of the same (4b).

In particular, this last condition occurs due to the fact that the same central channel (4b) of the membrane (4) has, below the aforementioned diaphragm (4f), some radial holes (4h).

Consider that precisely this crossing in the radial direction of the membrane itself (4) allows the water to be subjected to the desired osmotic process of demineralization, following which, precisely, the water can be defined as "permeated".

In any case, the permeated water that flows into said central channel (4b) is finally discharged outside the cartridge in question (CM) through the appropriate outlet pipe (2b) with which it is suitably connected Γ indeed said appendix lower tubular (4c) of the membrane (4).

The part of water that fails to enter the aforementioned radial holes (4h) made in correspondence with the central channel (4b) of the membrane (4) does not undergo the aforementioned demineralization process (it is therefore not permeated) and is therefore destined to be discharged "one way" outside the base (B).

In fact, it is first destined to pour by gravity onto the bottom of the cup seat (2), all around the respective central collar (2a), to then pour into the actual exhaust duct (2c).

However, the flow rate of this discharge duct (2c) is such that a part of the non-demineralized water that flows to the bottom of the cup seat (2) is not in a position to be evacuated immediately outside, but rather is induced rising up into the interspace (IN) interposed between the membrane (4) and the respective external envelope (4a).

It should also be noted that both in the case of the filter cartridge (CF) and in the case of the membrane cartridge (CM), the insertion of the same inside the respective cup seats (1, 2) of the base (B) is made watertight thanks to the presence of suitable sealing gaskets.

Starting from similar premises, it must be recognized that the referred technology is rather satisfactory both from the operational point of view (i.e. considered in terms of correct water treatment), and from the point of view of the extremely practical and fast methods that it provides in relation to when the various cartridges are engaged in the respective base (B), as well as in relation to their disengagement to be implemented when the cartridges themselves have completed their life cycle and require replacement.

It is also true, however, that the aforesaid technology is penalized by a considerable drawback which, in particular, occurs when one of the aforementioned cartridges at the end of its life is removed from the respective base (B).

It alludes to the fact that traditional cartridges, both filtering ones (CF) and those equipped with osmotic membrane (CM), experience an uncontrolled loss of water when they are disconnected, with an energetic pull from bottom to top. , from the bearing base (B), provided for unscrewing from the respective lower end from the respective cup seats (1, 2).

This effect - as will be better clarified in the following - is manifested by the fact that, in all traditional cartridges, the external rigid casings (3a, 4a) are not integral with the respective internal operating components, intended as a filter depending on the case ( 3) or as an osmotic membrane (4).

In particular, a similar loss of water, which can sometimes be quite copious, occurs at the lower end of the aforementioned cartridges, so as to unexpectedly spill into the underlying base (B), as well as into the surrounding surface.

To better illustrate the nature of this phenomenon, it is useful to first refer to Figures 4 and 5 which show two steps in the removal of a disposable cartridge (CF) of the type equipped with filtering capacity.

In particular, figure 4 shows the first phase of this removal, the one that involves lifting upwards only the external casing (3a) of the aforementioned cartridge (CF), by means of an axial sliding with respect to the respective internal filter (3) which on the other hand, it is still engaged in the cup-shaped seat below (1).

In fact, such an operation involves the extraction of the lower end of this cartridge (CF) from the aforementioned cup seat (1).

In this way the water that is still contained in the said respective cavity (IN) tends to escape by simple gravity and therefore in a completely uncontrolled way on the sides of the cup-shaped seat (1), as eloquently shown by the arrows of flow present in the aforementioned figure 4.

Figure 5 shows a further step in the removal of a similar filter cartridge (CF), which involves the extraction of the aforementioned duct (5a) provided at the base of the filter (3) from that collar (la) which projects from the center of the bottom wall of the cup seat (1).

Even in this phase, the residual water that is still stationed inside the filter of the cartridge in question (CF) tends to pour out just as uncontrollably inside the underlying base (B), as shown by the appropriate flow arrows also provided in the latter figure 5.

Figures 7 and 8 show how an identical uncontrolled dynamic also occurs when an osmotic membrane (CM) cartridge is removed and how, more precisely, a first loss of water is generated starting from the lower end, now devoid of of any seal, of the interspace (IN) of the cartridge itself (see in this regard the flow arrows in figure 7) and how a further loss of water is generated starting from the lower tubular appendix (4c) of the said membrane osmotic (2), at the same moment in which said tubular appendage (4c) is extracted from the collar (2a) of the respective cup seat (2); in this latter regard, the flow arrows of figure 8 should be verified).

Following a careful examination of such a problem, the specific purpose of the present invention is to produce disposable cartridges for water treatment systems that are immune from the risk of generating any uncontrolled loss of water upon their disconnection, in bottom-up direction, from the corresponding cup seats made on the support base of their destination.

It is like saying that we wanted to adopt a device that serves to block the spontaneous and unwanted dripping that regularly occurs in traditional cartridges.

A similar purpose has been pursued by means of a particular and innovative configuration of the lower end of the cartridge according to the invention, compatible with the assembly of respective one-way valves in correspondence with the sections within which the flow of water occurs following the connection of the plant in question to the water mains.

These valves are subject to the force of respective elastic members which spontaneously tend to keep them in the closed position and therefore to prevent the uncontrolled passage of water.

However, it should be considered that the preload of the aforementioned elastic members has been determined in such a way that their thrust can be overcome by a flow of water that advances with normal working pressure.

It is also evident how the interruption of such a flow allows the aforementioned elastic organs to spontaneously return to the position that corresponds to the closing position of the respective valve.

All this can be summarized by stating that the valves adopted in the cartridge in question do not obstruct the normal flows of pressurized water that occur inside the cartridge in question when it is in the working phase, while they are able to prevent the falling due to simple gravity of the water that remains inside the cartridge itself when it is extracted from the respective base.

It is easy to understand how this desired "anti-drip" effect is produced due to the fact that the aforementioned residual water is not able to exert, against the aforementioned elastic elements, sufficient pressure to enable the opening of the respective valves.

In the same "anti-drip" perspective, it is very important to have provided that in the cartridge according to the invention the external cylindrical casing always remains integral with the respective internal operating component (intended as a filter or osmotic membrane), without mutual uncoupling being possible.

This precaution prevents the aforementioned "lateral" water leaks from being generated when the cartridge itself is extracted from the respective base, which normally occurred in traditional setting cartridges, as expressly shown in the aforementioned figures 4 and 7.

For greater clarity of explanation, the description of the invention continues with reference to the additional attached drawing tables, having only illustrative and certainly not limiting value, in which:

Figure 9 is an axonometric representation, partially sectioned, of a water treatment plant which adopts four examples of the cartridge according to the invention, shown in an extracted position from the respective supporting base;

- figure 10 shows, with a sectional drawing, the aforementioned cartridge, in its filtering version, seated in the respective seat of its supporting base;

Figure 11 shows, with a sectional drawing, the same cartridge extracted from the respective coupling seat;

- Figure 12 is an exploded drawing of the components adopted by the aforementioned cartridge at its lower end in order to prevent any uncontrolled dripping;

- figure 13 shows, with a sectional drawing, the aforementioned cartridge, in its osmotic membrane version, seated in the respective seat of its supporting base;

Figure 14 shows, with a sectional drawing, the cartridge of Figure 13 extracted from the respective coupling seat;

- figure 15 is an exploded drawing of the components adopted by the cartridge of figure 13 at its lower end in order to prevent any uncontrolled dripping.

With reference to the aforementioned figure 9, it should be noted that in general the new cartridge in question is required to operate in the usual manner, since its lower end is in any case intended to be screwed and inserted into a corresponding socket (10, 20 ) of a base (B) in itself traditional, up to the point where its traditional external annular projection (30d, 40d) does not interfere with the mouth edge of the respective seat (10, 20).

In the same way it is envisaged that the cartridge in question adopts, in its filtering version (CF), a cylindrical filter (30) crossed for its entire length by a cylindrical central channel (30b), suitably installed inside a corresponding rigid cylindrical casing (30a) , open at the bottom, so that a perimeter gap (IN) is established between one and the other.

In its version with osmotic membrane (CM) it is similarly provided that the cartridge according to the invention adopts a cylindrical osmotic membrane (40) crossed for the entire length by a central cylindrical duct (40b), equipped at about half height with a respective diaphragm (40f), and is equipped, at the two ends, with respective tubular appendages (40c, 40d) connected with the same central channel (40b).

This osmotic membrane (40) is also housed inside a respective cylindrical casing (40a) in such a way that a perimeter gap (IN) is established between one and the other and that its aforementioned upper tubular appendix ( 40d) is connected with a conduit (40a ') which projects upwards from the top of the aforementioned casing (40a).

Starting from such a substantially conventional approach, it is reiterated that the cartridge according to the invention has two main peculiarities.

The first consists in the fact that its cylindrical casing (30a, 40a) is integral with the corresponding internal operating component (30, 40), without any mutual decoupling being allowed.

The second of these peculiarities lies in the adoption of some one-way valves mounted at its lower end, that is, the one intended to settle inside the aforementioned cup seats (10, 20) of the base (B).

In particular figures 10, 11 and 12 show the particular configuration assumed by the cartridge according to the invention in its aforementioned filtering version (CF).

In this context it is envisaged that the lower end of the aforementioned cylindrical filter (30) is seated within a concave plate (50), substantially bowl-shaped, which adopts a central hole (50a) which is arranged in perfect alignment with the aforementioned channel center (30b) of the filter itself (30).

Against the lower face of this concave plate (50) stands a particular boxed ring (51) which has a diameter substantially equal to the internal diameter of the cylindrical casing (30a); since its central hole is delimited by a mouthpiece (52) which extends upwards and downwards with respect to the ring itself (51).

In particular, the upper portion (52a) of this mouthpiece (52) is intended to be inserted exactly into the overlying central hole (50a) of the aforesaid plate (50), so as to penetrate into the bottom end of the aforesaid channel (30b ) which passes through the filter (30) for its entire length.

On the upper face of the aforementioned ring (51), four identical holes (53) are made, offset by 90 °, which correspond, on the lower face of the ring itself (51), to respective seats (54) which are substantially cylindrical in vertical arrangement.

Each of these seats (54) is designed to accommodate exactly a helical spring (55) associated with an underlying ball (56); being expected that the cooperation of these two components (55, 56) is intended to originate an authentic one-way valve.

In order to hold each of the aforementioned "spring (55) - ball (56)" assemblies in this position, a "closing" counter-ring (57) is provided against the lower face of the aforementioned ring (51), of a central hole (57a) into which the lower portion (52b) of the aforementioned mouthpiece (52) incorporated on the ring itself (51) is inserted exactly.

In fact, on the upper face of this counter ring (57), four substantially cylindrical impressions (57a) are obtained, in positions offset by 90 °, intended to close the corresponding cylindrical seats (54) of the aforementioned overlying ring (51) from below. .

To better stabilize such a coupling, it is provided in particular that the lower circular edge of each of the seats (54) of the ring (51) fits exactly within the corresponding imprint (57a) made in the underlying counter ring (57).

In this context, the further function of the indeed said impressions (57a) of the counter ring (57) is to act as abutment surfaces in favor of the aforementioned spheres (56) contained within the aforementioned seats (54) of the ring (51).

Moreover, the assembly of this counter ring (57) also serves to preload the aforementioned springs (55) which occupy, within the same cylindrical seats (54), a position above the respective balls (56).

A similar preload is generated, in particular, by the fact that the aforementioned springs (55) have, in rest position, a greater length than that established from the top of the respective cylindrical seats (54) to the point where the respective spheres (56) are retained by using said impressions (57a) of the counter ring (57).

It should also be noted that each of these last impressions (57a) flows into an underlying vertical duct (58) which crosses the entire thickness of the aforementioned counter ring (57).

The aforementioned figures 10, 11 and 12 again show how the aforementioned lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) is intended to accommodate exactly a tubular insert (59), substantially cylindrical, which ends at the top with a portion tapered (59a) with which it is connected by means of a suitable internal perimeter step (59b).

Within said insert (59), a further ball (56), suitably equipped with a diameter smaller than that of the hole delimited by the aforementioned tapered section (59a), must be installed from the bottom up and up to the stop.

Together with this ball (56), the same tubular insert (59) is also intended to house an underlying helical spring (55).

Once the ball (56) and the underlying spring (55) have been inserted, the insert in question (59) is expected to be closed at the bottom by a small cap (60) which engages within its base perimeter edge.

The assembly of this plug (60) also produces the effect of compressing the aforementioned spring (55) and therefore of giving it a sufficient preload to allow it to push the respective ball (56) with a certain energy against the aforementioned sealing and stop (59b) which delimits the aforementioned tapered section (59a) of the insert itself (59) at the bottom.

It goes without saying that also in this case a similar preload arises due to the fact that the length of the spring (55) is less than the height between the aforementioned cap (60) and the point where the respective ball is held (56). at the top of the tubular insert (59).

To favor the centering between the ring (51) and the counter ring (57) and to stabilize the coupling, the latter adopts a first raised edge (61) all around its central hole and a second raised edge (6 la) located at its external circumference.

In fact, it is envisaged that the aforementioned first raised edge (61) is destined - when the respective counter ring (57) is coupled from below with the aforementioned ring (51) - to settle exactly within an annular niche (62) made on this same ring (51), all around the first section (52a) of the aforementioned mouthpiece (52), while, in the same condition, the aforementioned second raised edge (6 la) of the counter ring (57) is destined to exactly embrace the edge perimeter of the ring itself (51).

Other points of friction and interlocking coupling between the ring (51) and the counter ring (57) between the lower opening edge of each of the aforementioned cylindrical seats (54) of the ring (51) and the corresponding perimeter edge of the respective impression (57a) made in the underlying counter ring (57).

Note again that the lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) has a smaller section than that of the upper portion (52a); there being Γ interposition between them of an external connecting step (52c).

The function of this step (52c) is to abut against the upper tucking of the collar (10a) which projects from the center of the socket (20) of the base (B) into which the entire cartridge (CF) is engaged.

Figure 10 shows, in particular, how this condition occurs when the entire lower end of the respective cartridge (CF) has completed its insertion inside the aforementioned respective coupling seat (10), in a condition in which the lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) is also inserted deeply into the respective collar (10a) which projects from the center of the same seat (10).

Figure 10 also allows, thanks to the provision of suitable flow arrows, to ascertain the circulation methods of the water inside the new cartridge in question (CF), as well as the operating modes of the one-way valves composed of the aforementioned "ball (56) - spring (55) ".

When the mains tap is opened, the water is channeled into the inlet duct (10b) provided below the aforementioned seat (10), and then pours into the latter.

From here the water rises through the aforementioned vertical axis ducts (58) provided on the aforementioned counter ring (57) in the direction of the overlying cylindrical seats (54) of the ring (51) which house the respective "ball (56) - spring (55) ".

In fact, under the pressure of this water flow, the ball (56) rises, compressing the overlying spring (55) and freeing the water passage section represented, precisely, by the upper mouth of the aforementioned ducts. vertical axis (58).

In this way the water, after passing through the aforementioned hole (53) which delimits each of the aforementioned cylindrical seats (54) at the top, is finally free to fill the aforementioned perimeter gap (IN) present between the filter (30) and the inner wall of the respective cylindrical casing (30a).

From here the water is induced to penetrate in a radial direction into the structure of the filter itself (30) and, after passing through it, to pour into the aforementioned longitudinal channel (30b) of the latter, placing itself on an exit trajectory.

At this point, in fact, the water enters the aforementioned mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51), with the effect of exerting an energetic downward thrust against the ball (56) housed within the aforementioned tubular insert ( 59) installed within the lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece itself (52).

The force of this interference is such as to cause a compression of the spring (55) associated with this last ball (56); in this way the ball itself (56) moves away from the aforementioned tapered section (59b) of the aforementioned tubular insert (59), which in practice represents the section of passage of the water towards the outlet.

In this way, in fact, the passage of water along the aforementioned lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) is enabled and from here towards the underlying outlet duct (10c) which projects below from the bottom wall of the aforementioned seat cup (10).

When the flow of pressurized water is interrupted, the springs (55) spontaneously return to expand, pushing the respective spheres (56) towards the position in which they are able to hermetically occlude the aforementioned water passage sections.

It is reiterated that at this point the possible extraction of the cartridge (CF) from the respective base (B) will not generate any uncontrolled dripping, given that the residual water still present inside it, being subject only to the force of gravity , certainly does not have the strength to enable a new opening of the aforementioned "spring (55) - ball (56)" assemblies acting as one-way valves.

Finally, it should be noted that on the outside of the aforementioned lower section (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) there are two perimeter grooves (63) for resettlement of the respective seals (G).

Figure 10 shows in particular how these annular gaskets (G) are designed to seal in an intermediate position between the aforementioned mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) and the internal walls of the collar (10a) which protrudes from the bottom wall of the cup seat (10), when the mouthpiece itself (52) is seated deep inside the aforementioned collar (10a).

Similar perimeter grooves (64) are made on the outside of the counter ring (57) in order to house respective annular gaskets (G ') intended to ensure the tightness of this same counter ring (57) and the inner perimeter edge of the socket seat (10) , when the cartridge in question (CF) is installed inside the latter.

With particular reference to figures 13, 14 and 15, we now proceed to illustrate the configuration adopted by the cartridge according to the invention in its version (CM) containing the cylindrical osmotic membrane (40), usually equipped with a lower tubular appendage (40c) adapted to engage exactly within the collar (20a) projecting from the bottom of the socket (20), when the entire lower end of this cartridge (CM) is screwed and seated inside the same seat (20).

Well, at the lower end of this cartridge (CM) a ring (510) is mounted with a diameter substantially equal to the internal diameter of the cylindrical casing (40a).

This ring (510) has a central hole into which it is possible to insert exactly Γ or rather said lower tubular appendage (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40).

At the upper face of the aforementioned ring (510) there is a raised edge (610) which circumscribes the aforementioned central hole and which is intended to abut against the lower end of the same osmotic membrane (40).

In correspondence with the lower face of this ring (510), on the other hand, there are two concentric perimeter sides (511, 512) which delimit an annular compartment (513) which opens up at the upper face of the ring itself (510) through of four small holes (530) offset by 90 °.

Said ring (510) is called upon to cooperate with an underlying "closing" counter ring (570), also inserted in the aforementioned lower tubular appendix (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40).

In fact, from the upper face of this counter ring (570) protrudes a sort of perimeter rib (571) able to settle exactly within the aforementioned annular space (513) provided below the overlying ring (510).

Along said rib (570b) there are four cylindrical seats with a vertical axis (540) open at the bottom, also staggered by 90 °, intended to be placed in perfect alignment with the said holes (530) of the aforementioned ring (510) .

In reality, before completing such a coupling between ring (510) and counter ring (570) it is provided that each of the aforementioned seats (540) must house a helical spring (55) and an overlying ball (56).

Therefore, upon tightening the ring (510) and counter ring (570), each of these balls (56) abuts with energy against the lower face of the ring itself (510), in correspondence with one of its aforesaid holes ( 530), suitably equipped with a smaller diameter.

It goes without saying that a similar forceful thrust is ensured to each ball (56) by the underlying spring (55), which, on the occasion of the aforementioned tightening between ring (510) and counter ring (570), is automatically preloaded thanks to the fact that its length is less than the difference in height which is determined between the bottom wall of the respective housing seat (540) and the point where the respective ball (56) lies.

The aforementioned figures 13, 14 and 15 show how the aforementioned lower tubular appendix (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40) is intended to house exactly one example of that same tubular insert (59), substantially cylindrical, which is also adopted in the indeed said filtering version (CF) of the cartridge according to the invention.

Also in this case, in fact, said tubular insert (59) ends at the top with a portion of smaller section (59a), with which it is connected by means of a suitable internal perimeter step (59b).

A respective ball (56), suitably equipped with a diameter smaller than that of the hole delimited by the aforementioned tapered section (59a), must be installed within this insert (59) from the bottom upwards and up to the stop.

Even the same tubular insert (59) is intended to house, together with the aforementioned sphere (56), an underlying helical spring (55).

Once the ball (56) and the underlying spring (55) have been inserted, the tubular insert in question (59) is closed at the bottom by a small cap (60) which engages within its base perimeter edge. .

The assembly of this cap (60) also produces the effect of compressing the aforementioned spring (55) and therefore of giving it a sufficient preload to allow it to push the respective ball (56) with a certain energy against the aforementioned step (59b) which it delimits the aforementioned tapered section (59a) of the insert itself (59) at the bottom.

Also in this case a similar preload arises due to the fact that the length of the spring (55) is less than the height between the aforementioned cap (60) and the point where the respective ball (56) is held at the top of the 'tubular insert (59).

It should also be noted that between the lower face of the aforementioned raised edge (610) which circumscribes the central hole of the ring (510) and the first (511) of the aforementioned perimeter sides that project below the ring itself, the formation of a annular step (520c).

The function of this step (520c) is to abut against the upper tucking of the collar (20a) which projects from the center of the socket (20) of the base (B) into which the entire cartridge (CM) is engaged.

Figure 13 shows, in particular, how this condition occurs when the entire lower end of the respective cartridge (CM) has perfected its insertion inside the aforementioned respective coupling seat (20), in a condition in which the lower tubular appendage (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40) is also inserted deeply into the aforementioned respective collar (20a).

It should also be noted that in order to favor perfect cooperation and centering between the ring (510) and the counter ring (570), friction and interlocking coupling points are provided between the cylindrical seats (540) of the counter ring (570) and the above the annular compartment (513) of the ring (510) intended to house them.

The same figure 13 also allows, thanks to the provision of suitable flow arrows, to ascertain the modes of circulation of the water inside the new cartridge in question (CM), as well as the operating modes of the one-way valves composed of the aforementioned assemblies " ball (56) - spring (55) ”, once subjected to the working pressure exerted by the flow of water which penetrates from the top into the cartridge itself (CM) through the aforementioned top inlet duct (40a ').

Well, the permeated water that is conveyed downwards inside the longitudinal channel (40b) of the membrane (40) is able to generate a downward thrust compared to that sphere (56) which is housed at the end of the aforementioned tubular insert (59) grafted into the lower tubular appendage (40c) of the membrane (40).

Of course, a similar effect is produced thanks to the ability of the aforementioned water flow to overcome the contrast force of the spring (55) associated with the aforementioned sphere (56).

In this way the ball itself (56) frees the water passage section - substantially represented by the tapered portion (59a) of the aforementioned tubular insert (59) - and allows it to flow into the outlet duct (20b) which projects on the bottom of the respective cup seat (20).

In turn, the non-permeated water that "drains" vertically from the membrane itself (40), on the sides of the respective longitudinal channel (40b), proves capable of generating a useful downward thrust towards the four spheres (56) which they occlude the aforesaid holes (530) made on the ring (510); all this, of course, overcoming the contrast force of the respective springs (55).

In this way these four holes (530), which can be configured as an equal number of water passage sections, are "freed" from the interference of the respective balls (56), allowing the water to enter the underlying cylindrical seats (540) of the counter ring ( 570), thus reaching the bottom of the cup seat (20) and finally pouring out of the same through the appropriate discharge duct (20c).

Naturally, even in this case, any interruption in the flow of pressurized water causes the springs (55) to expand again, pushing the respective spheres (56) towards the position in which they are able to hermetically occlude the aforementioned water passage sections. In such a context Γ any extraction of the cartridge (CM) from the respective base (B) will not generate any uncontrolled dripping, since the residual water still present inside it, being subject only to the force of gravity, does not certainly the force to enable a new opening of the aforementioned “spring (55)-ball (56)” assemblies acting as one-way valves.

It should also be noted that on the outside of the second perimeter edge (512) of the ring (510), as well as on the outside of the counter ring (570), there are respective perimeter grooves (512a, 570a), both intended to house annular seals (Gl, Gl ').

Figure 13 shows in particular how these annular gaskets (Gl, Gl ') are designed to seal against the internal wall of the cylindrical casing (40a) of the cartridge in question (CM).

A further annular sealing gasket (Gl ") is finally mounted between the aforementioned raised edge (610) of the ring (510) and the lower tubular appendix (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40).

The attached figures also show that the new cartridge in question, both in its filtering version (CF) and in its osmotic membrane version (CM), is housed in correspondence with the respective central channel (30b, 40b) and towards its lower end. , a pure silver insert (70) intended to be crossed by the water being treated, as it is capable of exercising a bacteriostatic function towards it.

In particular, in the aforementioned figures this silver insert (70) is configured as a spiral-shaped filament; however, nothing prevents it from giving it any other configuration useful for the purpose.

Claims (11)

CLAIMS 1) Disposable cartridge for domestic water treatment systems, using a rigid cylindrical casing (30a, 40a) open at the bottom which contains, with the interposition of a perimeter interspace (IN), a cylindrical operating component (30, 40) suitable for water treatment and which adopts, at its lower end, some passage sections for the outlet and inlet of the water to and from the aforementioned operating component (30, 40), a cartridge characterized by the fact to adopt means of stable connection between the aforementioned rigid casing (30a, 40a) and the respective operating component (30, 40) and by also adopting, in correspondence with its own water passage sections (58, 59b / 530 , 59b), respective one-way valves designed to inhibit the transit of the water itself at atmospheric pressure. 2) Cartridge according to claim 1, making use of an operating component consisting of a filter (30) centrally equipped with a cylindrical longitudinal channel (30b), characterized in that it adopts, for the purposes of housing the aforementioned one-way valves, the following components arranged in a compact arrangement at the lower end of the aforementioned filter (30): - a concave plate (50), substantially bowl-shaped, which exactly embraces the aforementioned filter (30) and which is equipped with a central hole (50a) able to be arranged in perfect alignment with the aforementioned longitudinal channel (30b) of the filter itself ( 30) - a boxed ring (51) which has a diameter substantially equal to the internal diameter of the cylindrical casing (30a) of the cartridge in question (CF) and which is equipped, in correspondence with its central hole, with a mouthpiece (52), the the upper portion (52a) of which is able to penetrate exactly into the aforementioned longitudinal channel of the filter (30), after having also passed through the hole (50a) of the aforesaid concave plate (50), while its lower portion (52b), smaller section, it is able to accommodate exactly a tubular insert (59), substantially cylindrical, which ends at the top with a tapered section (59a) with which it is connected by means of a suitable internal perimeter step (59b); it being also provided that said boxed ring (51) has, in correspondence with its upper face, four identical small holes (53), to which correspond, on the lower part of the same, respective substantially cylindrical seats (54) of vertical arrangement; - a counter ring (57) equipped with a central hole adapted to accommodate exactly Γ aforementioned lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of the ring (51) and also provided with four substantially cylindrical impressions (57a), offset by 90 from each other °, adapted to close from below the aforesaid cylindrical seats (54) of the aforesaid overlying ring (51), each of which flows into an underlying vertical duct (58) which cuts through the entire thickness of the counter ring itself (57); it being provided, in such a context, that a first one-way valve is housed within the aforementioned tubular insert (59) seated within the aforementioned lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) in such a way as to ensure the closure of the passage section of the water represented by the aforementioned upper tapered portion (59a) of this same tubular insert (59) and that further four one-way valves are housed in an intermediate position between the aforementioned cylindrical seats (54) of the ring (51) and the corresponding indentations (57a ) of the underlying counter ring (57) in such a way as to ensure the closure of the water passage sections represented by the upper ends of the aforementioned vertical ducts (58) connected below with the same impressions (57 a). 3) Cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the aforementioned one-way valve housed within the aforementioned tubular insert (59) is formed by a ball (56) capable of strongly interfering from below, occluding it, with the tapered portion (59a ) of the insert itself (59), by virtue of the axial thrust discharged on it by an underlying spring (55) which is found at the bottom on a closing cap (60) mounted at the lower end of said tubular insert (59 ); it being also provided that the further four one-way valves housed within the aforementioned cylindrical seats (54) of the ring (51) are formed by as many spheres (56) subject to the axial thrust of overlying springs (55) and therefore capable of energetically inferring from the high, occluding it, against the upper opening of the vertical ducts (58) made on the counter ring (57) and connected with the overlying imprint (57). 4) Cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the aforementioned counter ring (57) has a first raised edge (61) which circumscribes its central hole and a second raised edge (6a) located at its external circumference; it being provided that said first raised edge (61) is able - when the respective counter ring (57) is coupled from below with the aforementioned ring (51) - to settle exactly within an annular niche (62) made on this same ring (51), all around the first section (52a) of the respective aforementioned mouthpiece (52), while, in the same situation, the aforementioned second raised edge (6a) of the counter ring (57) is able to exactly embrace the perimeter edge of the overlying ring (51). 5) Cartridge according to claim 2, characterized in that the aforementioned lower portion (52b) of the mouthpiece (52) of its ring (51) is externally engraved by one or more annular grooves (63) suitable for receiving respective sealing gaskets (G) and due to the fact that the perimeter edge of the aforesaid counter ring (57) is in turn engraved externally by one or more annular grooves (64), equally suitable for receiving respective sealing gaskets (G '). 6) Cartridge according to claim 1, making use of an operating component consisting of an osmotic membrane (40) centrally equipped with a cylindrical longitudinal channel (40b), characterized in that it adopts, for the purposes of housing the aforementioned unidirectional valves, the following components arranged in a compact arrangement at the lower end of the aforementioned membrane (40): - a ring (510) having a diameter substantially equal to the internal diameter of the cylindrical casing (40a) of the cartridge itself (CM) and also equipped with a central hole able to accommodate exactly Γ tubular appendix (40c) which projects below from the aforementioned osmotic membrane (40) connecting with the aforementioned longitudinal channel (40b) of the latter; it being provided that said ring (510) also has, in correspondence with its lower face, two concentric perimeter sides (511, 512) which delimit an annular space (513) which opens up at the upper face of the ring itself (510) to through four small holes (530) staggered by 90 °; - a counter ring (570), also equipped with a central hole able to be penetrated exactly by the aforementioned lower tubular appendix (40c) of the osmotic membrane (40), as well as provided, in correspondence with its upper face, with a perimeter rib (571) adapted to settle exactly within the aforementioned annular space (513) provided below the overlying ring (510); it being provided that along said rib (571) four cylindrical seats with a vertical axis (540) are formed, open at the bottom and staggered by 90 °, adapted to be arranged in perfect alignment with the aforementioned holes (530) of the overlying ring (510); being provided, in such a context, that a first one-way valve is housed inside a tubular insert (59) seated exactly within the aforementioned lower tubular appendix (40c) of the membrane (40), in such a way as to ensure closure of the water passage section represented by the aforementioned upper tapered portion (59a) of this same tubular insert (59), and that further four one-way valves are housed between the counter ring (570) and the ring (510) and, more precisely, inside the aforementioned cylindrical seats (540) of the counter ring itself (570) in such a way as to ensure the closure of the water passage sections represented by the aforementioned corresponding holes (530) made on the overlying ring (510). 7) Cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that the aforementioned one-way valve housed within the aforementioned tubular insert (59) is formed by a ball (56) capable of strongly interfering from below, occluding it, with the tapered portion (59a ) of the insert itself (59), by virtue of the axial thrust discharged on it by an underlying spring (55) which is found at the bottom on a closing cap (60) mounted at the lower end of said tubular insert (59). ); it being also provided that the further four one-way valves housed within the aforementioned cylindrical seats (540) of the counter-ring (570) are formed by as many spheres (56) subject to the axial thrust of underlying springs (55) and therefore capable of energetically inferring from below, occluding them, with the aforementioned holes (530) made on the overlying ring (510). 8) Cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that the aforementioned ring (510) has a raised edge (610) provided all around its central hole, as well as an annular step (520c) made between the lower face of said edge raised (610) and the first (511) of the aforementioned perimeter banks that project below the ring itself (510). 9) Cartridge according to claim 6, characterized in that said second perimeter edge (512) of the ring (510) has one or more annular grooves (512a) on the outside, suitable for receiving respective sealing gaskets (Gl) and for the fact that the perimeter edge of the aforesaid counter ring (570) externally bears one or more annular grooves (570a), equally suitable for receiving respective annular sealing gaskets (Gl '). 10) Cartridge according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the central longitudinal channel (30b, 40b) of the respective cylindrical operating component (30, 40) houses a pure silver insert (70), having bacteriostatic properties. 11) Cartridge according to claim 10, characterized in that the aforesaid insert (70) is configured as a spiral-shaped filament.