MX2007016192A - A cartridge for an additive dispensing system - Google Patents

Abstract

A cartridge for selectively dispensing an additive to water that includes a housing (130), a bladder (140) disposed within the housing (130), and a pump (150) connected to the housing (130) and in fluid communication with the bladder. The bladder (140) is configured to contain a consumable additive such as a flavor, for water. The pump (150) is operable to selectively dispense an amount of the additive into water. The cartridge may be connected to a water filtration system such that the cartridge may dispense the additive into filtered water.

Description

CARTRIDGE FOR AN ADIT8VTI DISPATCH SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates, generally, to an additive dispensing system. More especially, the present invention relates to a single cartridge for dispensing a consumable additive to water and even more specifically to a disposable cartridge that can be connected to water filtration systems to deliver a consumable additive to filtered water.

ANTECEDENTS OF THE INVEN The devices for the treatment of water for the home and other uses are well known in the industry. Such devices are normally incorporated into a water system either in line or at the terminal end. An example of the first would be a device to be placed under the counter that filters the water before reaching the outlet of the tap. There are two common types of devices for the terminal end - mounted on the counter and on the tap. Water treatment devices can treat water through the use of mechanical filtration or chemical treatment. Most water filtration systems use a filter cartridge that contains activated carbon or a combination of activated carbon and an ion exchange resin. Activated carbon serves to filter out particulates and other impurities, while eliminating most of the chlorine present in the water. The ion exchange resin removes the positive ions such as calcium, thereby softening the water. A negative side effect of the aforementioned systems is that various other healthy minerals can be removed by the ion exchange resin. An alternative method of water purification is inverted osmosis, but products that use this technology are not widely used by household consumers because of their high costs. In recent years, water consumption by people has increased due to better health education and other information available to the public. However, the public's perception of the poor quality and taste of tap water has led to the development and sale of a number of products that address these problems. Various bottled waters are available to consumers. Some of these bottled waters have added additives that consumers may find beneficial. These additives include nutrients, vitamins, minerals and flavorings. These bottled waters are often called waters for physical fitness, water with vitamins, or improved waters. However, the cost and inconvenience of obtaining improved bottled water products on a regular basis may discourage consumers from consuming additional water. Therefore, a more practical and cost-effective approach is required to provide improved water to the public.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention is directed to a cartridge for dispensing an additive to water and, more especially, a disposable cartridge that can be connected to a water filtration system for dispensing a consumable additive; which allows a user to selectively select an amount of an additive to the filtered water. One embodiment of the present invention is a cartridge for selectively dispensing an additive to water. The cartridge includes a housing, an unventilated ampule disposed in the housing, and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the ampoule. The ampoule is configured to contain a consumable additive. The pump is operable to selectively dispense a quantity of additive to the water. The cartridge is configured in such a way that it can dispense such an amount of additive from any orientation. Another embodiment of the present invention is a cartridge for selectively dispensing a water additive, characterized in that the cartridge includes a housing, an ampoule disposed in the housing and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the ampoule. The ampoule is configured to contain a consumable additive. The pump comprises an outlet check valve that includes sealing surfaces and is operable to selectively dispense a quantity of additive to the water from the vial. The cartridge is configured to include virtually no empty space along such sealing surfaces of the outlet check valve. In still another embodiment of the present invention, is a cartridge for selectively dispensing an additive to water, characterized in that the cartridge includes a housing having a curved cross section, an ampule disposed in the housing and configured to contain an additive, and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the blister. The pump is configured to discharge an amount of additive from the ampoule when activating the pump.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES Although the specification concludes with claims that particularly state and clearly claim the invention, it is believed that it will be better understood from the following description together with the attached figures in which: Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative system of water filtration in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative dispenser system of an additive in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative additive dispensing system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 is a schematic illustration of an illustrative water filtration system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary additive delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 is an exploded perspective view of an illustrative cartridge in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of an illustrative housing for the cartridge according to Figure 12; Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of an illustrative cartridge in accordance with Figure 12; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge according to Figure 12; Figure 16A is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16B is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16C is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16D is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16E is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16F is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16G is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16H is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 16J is a schematic illustration of illustrative operating mechanisms for the additive dispensing system according to Figure 11; Figure 17 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary additive delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 18 is a perspective view of an exemplary additive delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 19 is a perspective view of an illustrative receptacle for the additive dispensing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 20 is a perspective view of an exemplary additive delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The embodiments as they appear in the drawings are illustrative in nature and are not intended to limit the invention defined by the claims. In addition, the individual features of the drawings and the invention will be more apparent and understood in view of the detailed description.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENGSQN Referring now in detail to different embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the appended figures, wherein like numbers indicate similar elements throughout all views. Figure 1 illustrates an illustrative water filtration system 15 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The water filtration system 15 comprises a water inlet 20 connectable to an unfiltered water source 18. The water inlet 20 is in fluid communication with the water filter 22. The water filter 22 functions to filter one or more contaminants or particulates from unfiltered water. An outlet 24 is in communication with the water filter 22 and operates to deliver filtered water. The water filtration system 15 further comprises an additive dispensing system 16. The additive dispensing system 16 comprises a receptacle 26 for containing an additive and an additive outlet 28. The additive dispensing system 16 functions to selectively deliver an amount of additive to filtered water. In an illustrative embodiment, the filtered water dispensed from the outlet 24 is dispensed to a vessel or other container 30 and an additive is dispensed to the filtered water in the container 30 through the additive outlet 28. The water inlet 20 is connectable to any unfiltered water source. Exemplary unfiltered water sources comprise a garden hose, a water conduit, water tap fittings, water receptacles, pitchers and water dispensers and the like.

The water filter 22 may comprise any water filter technology known to one experienced in the industry. These water filter media can include activated carbon or the like to remove organic matters from the water; halogenated resin fibers or other means, to destroy bacteria and viruses in water; ion exchange resins (such as halogen-based ion exchange resin to remove sodium) to remove ionic materials from water; and eliminate the bacteria by means of microfiltration. An illustrative water filter that can be used in the present invention is described by Hou et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,565,749. In one embodiment, the additive in the receptacle 26 is in liquid form. In another embodiment, the additive in the receptacle 26 is in the form of a dry powder. The additive comprises one or more additives selected from the group consisting of flavorings, vitamins, minerals and nutrients. The additive minerals include minerals selected from the group consisting of calcium ions, silicate, chloride, magnesium, potassium, sodium, selenium, zinc, iron, manganese and mixtures thereof. Vitamin additives include vitamins selected from the group consisting of vitamin B12, vitamin C and mixtures thereof. In other embodiments, homeopathic remedies and herbal remedies, as well as flavorings, may be included as additives in the receptacle 22. In one embodiment, the additive comprises hydroalcoholic extracts of natural oils. Other additives may include elixirs, liquors or essences and tinctures. An elixir is a sulfur-rich water-alcohol liquid intended for oral use. The alcohol content ranges from about 5% to about 50% by volume. Liquors and essences are alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solutions prepared from vegetable or chemical substances. The concentration of the solute varies up to 50%. The hydroalcoholic extracts of natural oils vary from about 0.025 to about 0.5% by volume of the filtered water to provide a taste signal to the filtered water. In another embodiment, the additives may comprise one or more coloring agents, such as food dye, to add a color to the filtered water. Illustrative flavors include lemon, lime, moro, citrus, orange, strawberry, and mixtures thereof. The receptacle 26 can be made of any material known to one skilled in the industry that does not contaminate or have its material properties affe by the additive. Illustrative materials for making the receptacle 26 include polymers, for example, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC). , polystyrene, nylon, polyester, and the like. Other illustrative materials for manufacturing include aluminum foil. In one embodiment, the receptacle 26 comprises multiple layers of the material. In another embodiment, any material with suitable barrier properties can be used. Although the schematic illustration in Figure 1 represents the outlet 24 and the additive outlet 28 that separately dispatch the water and the additive, respectively, to the container 30, they are likewise within the illustrated systems and the invention that the output of the additive 28 may be in fluid communication with the outlet 24. For example, the water filtration system may further comprise an output mixer configured to combine the outlet 24 and the additive outlet 28 in an outlet stream, before dispensing the resulting mixture to the container 30. In an illustrative embodiment as illustrated in Figure 2, the water filtration system 15 further comprises a controller 34 in communication with the additive outlet 28. The controller 34 is configured to regulate the amount of additive dispensed through the additive outlet 28. The controller 34 may comprise a limiting valve 36 (see Figure 5). The limiting valve 36 functions to limit or regulate the amount of additive dispensed through the additive outlet 28, if any. In another embodiment, the controller 34 may comprise a microprocessor in communication with a limiting valve 36. In an exemplary embodiment, the controller 34 may comprise a dial or other input device to allow the user to select the amount of additive to be dispensed to the water. filtered. In yet another illustrative embodiment, as shown in Figure 3, the water filtration system 15 comprises a water inlet 20 in communication with the unfiltered water source 18, such as a tap. A water filter 22 is in communication with the water inlet 20 and the filtered water from the water filter 22 is dispensed at the outlet 24. The additive dispensing system 16 comprises a receptacle 26 for containing an additive and an additive outlet 28. In this embodiment, the additive outlet 28 is in fluid communication with the outlet 24. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, the additive outlet 28 and outlet 24 are conne together within a housing 40 of the water filtration system 15 in an exit mixer 42, so that the exterior of the water filtration system 15 has only one outlet stream. In one embodiment of the present invention, the additive outlet 28 and the outlet 24 are configured and placed in communication in such a way as to create a venturi suction effect when the filtered water at the outlet 24 travels beyond the outlet of the outlet. additive 28. This venturi suction effect generates a vacuum that attracts the additive at the additive outlet 28 to the filtered water flowing through the outlet 24. In another illustrative embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 4, the additive dispensing system 16 further comprises a pump 32. The pump 32 is in communication with the receptacle 26 and the additive outlet 28. The pump 32 is configured to transport the additive from the receptacle 26 to the additive outlet 28 to be added to the filtered water. In one embodiment, the pump 32 comprises a diaphragm pump. As one skilled in the industry will understand, any pump known to one skilled in the industry can be used to transfer the additive to the additive outlet 28. Illustrative pumps include piston pumps, peristaltic pumps, and bellows pumps. In another illustrative embodiment, the additive dispensing system further comprises a manual trigger, for example a push bar 48, in communication with the pump 32. The push bar 48 is configured to activate the pump 32 when pressure is applied to the bar of push 48. The push bar 48 allows the user to manually and selectively dispatch an amount of additive to the filtered water. In an illustrative embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the water filtration system 15 comprises a water inlet 20 in communication with an unfiltered water source 18, such as a water tap. The water inlet 20 is in communication with the water filter 22. A mineral content analyzer 38 is in fluid communication with the outlet of the water filter 22. The mineral content analyzer 38 functions to measure the concentration of one or more minerals in the filtered water. The water filtration system 15 further comprises a controller 34 in communication with the mineral content analyzer 38. A receptacle 26 containing one or more additives is in communication with an additive outlet 28 and a limiting valve 36. The limiting valve 36 is in communication with a controller 34, so that the controller 34 operates to dispense one or more additives (such as minerals) to produce a predetermined concentration of additives in the filtered water. For example, the mineral content analyzer 38 detects a calcium level in the filtered water and reports the calcium level to the controller 34. The controller 34 determines that more calcium is desired in the final treated water product, and thus , sends a signal to the limiting valve 36 to add or increase the amount of additive (ie, calcium) being dispensed through the additive outlet 28 to the filtered water. As one skilled in the industry will appreciate, any controller known to one skilled in the industry can be used to control the amount of additive dispensed in the filtered water. Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 6. In this embodiment, the water filtration system 15 comprises a water inlet 20 connectable to an unfiltered water source 18. The water inlet 20 is located that the unfiltered water from the unfiltered water source 18 flows through the water inlet 20 and through the water filter 22 to the outlet 24. After the water has been filtered by the water filter 22, the Water passes over a mineral content analyzer 38 or a flow meter 40. The mineral content analyzer 38 functions to measure the concentration of one or more minerals in the filtered water. The flow meter 40 functions to measure the rate of water flow leaving the water filter 22. The flow meter 40 is configured to send a signal to the controller 34, characterized in that the signal corresponds to a water flow rate that leaves the water filter 22. The controller 34 receives the mineral content signal for the mineral content analyzer 38 and a flow rate signal from the flow meter 40. Then the controller 34 sends a signal to the pump 32 or the valve limiter 36 which is in communication with the receptacle 26. The signal from the controller 34 activates the pump 32 or the limiting valve 36 to allow an amount of additive from the receptacle 26 to be dispensed through the additive outlet 28 to the filtered water. The amount of additive is a function of the signals received from the mineral content analyzer 38 or the flow meter 40. In an alternative mode, as shown in Figure 6, an output mixer 42 is configured to place the additive output 28 in fluid communication with the output 24. In an alternative embodiment, the additive output 28 may be separated from the output 24 and not in fluid communication with each other. As one skilled in the industry will appreciate, any sensor known to one skilled in the industry can be used to detect various components of filtered water. Illustrative sensors include a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor from HM Digital of Los Angeles, California. In another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in Figure 7, the water filtration system 15 comprises a water inlet 20 connectable to an unfiltered water source 18, such as a faucet. The water inlet 20 is in fluid communication with the water filter 22. The water filter 22 functions to filter the unfiltered water from the unfiltered water source 18 by one or more contaminants. The filtered water from the water filter 22 is dispensed to the outlet 24. In this embodiment, the additive dispensing system 16 comprises a plurality of receptacles 26. Each receptacle 26 comprises one or more additives to be selectively dispensed to the filtered water. A controller 34 is configured to allow a user to select which, if any, of the receptacles 26 must dispense the additives to the filtered water. In one embodiment, the controller 34 sends a signal to the limiting valve 36 to regulate the flow of the additive through the additive outlet 28 to the filtered water. As discussed above, in one embodiment, the additive output 28 and the output 24 may be in fluid communication with each other or may be coupled with an output mixer 42. In an alternative embodiment, the receptacle 26 may comprise a plurality of cameras, characterized in that each chamber contains an additive to be sent to the filtered water. Another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in the Figure 8. In this embodiment, the additive dispensing system 16 is configured to be added to a pre-existing water filter of the user. This embodiment allows the user who has already purchased a water filtration system to add the new additive dispensing system of the present invention. In this embodiment, a housing 44 is connected to the receptacle 26 and the additive outlet 28. The housing 44 is configured to be attached or slid over the existing water filter to allow the additive outlet 28 to be in proximity to the filter outlet of existing water. In one embodiment, the additive outlet 28 comprises flexible conduits positioned near the outlet of the existing water filter. In another embodiment, the housing 44 can be configured to replace a portion of the pre-existing water filter. For example, housing 44 may be configured to be screwed on and replaced with an existing water filter housing component. In one embodiment, the receptacle 26 is removably connected to the water filtration system 15. This allows the receptacle 26 to be easily changed when the receptacle 26 is empty or the user desires a different additive contained in a separate receptacle 26 to be added to filtered drinking water. In one embodiment, the additive dispensing system functions to selectively dispense from approximately 0.01 mL of additive to approximately 1.0 mL of additive per 250 mL of water filtered through the filter. In another embodiment, the additive dispensing system functions to selectively dispense from approximately 0.1 mL of additive to approximately 0.5 mL of additive per 250 mL of water filtered through the filter. In another embodiment, the additive dispensing system functions to selectively dispense from about 0.025 to about 0.25% additive by volume of water filtered through the filter. In another embodiment, the additive dispensing system functions to selectively dispense from about 0.05 to about 0.1% additive by volume of water filtered through the filter. In yet another embodiment as illustrated in Figure 9, the additive dispensing system 16 further comprises a life indicator of the additive 50 which functions to indicate the remaining amount of additive in the receptacle 26. For example, the receptacle 26 may comprise a visible level manometer 50 to allow the user to determine the amount of additive remaining in the receptacle. In another embodiment, the additive dispensing system 16 may further comprise a totalizer 52 that functions to calculate the amount of additive dispensed from the additive dispensing system 16, and configurable to indicate the remaining amount of additive remaining in the receptacle 26. In this In this arrangement, a flow meter or a totalizer is coupled to the life indicator of the additive and sends a signal to the life indicator of the additive to cause it to turn on or light up after a predetermined volume of additive has passed through the outlet. of additive. In an alternative embodiment, the life indicator may comprise a monitoring mechanism such as a microchip containing a programmable clock. The life indicator of the additive could be implemented as, for example, light emitting diode or LCD (liquid crystal display) readers, characterized in that a clock is programmed to cause the life indicator of the additive, for example, to illuminate or turn on after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the installation of a new receptacle, for example, two months. Then a user could replace the receptacle with a new receptacle and initialize the watch. Other embodiments of the present invention are not limited to use with taps or the like. For example, the elements of the present invention can be adapted for use with portable containers such as jars, water bottles or other potable water supply systems, such as a water cooler. For example, an illustrative embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in Figure 10, comprises an attachment for a container 70, such as a jug or water bottle that could be designed to include a filter 22 and a replaceable receptacle 26 containing additives The additive outlet 28 could be placed near the outlet 24 of the container 70 to allow the additives to be dispensed to the filtered water. Also, the elements of the present invention could be installed in a water cooler or cooler, and operated by means of corresponding buttons, switches, and the like to selectively deliver an additive to the filtered water. With reference to Figures 11-16, yet another illustrative embodiment of the present invention is described. An additive dispensing system 100 of the present invention comprises a receptacle 101 and a cartridge 120 configured to contain a consumable additive and to selectively dispense the additive to the liquid (e.g., water). The additive dispensing system 100 may include one or more cartridges 120 or receptacles 101 without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The receptacle 101 can include a space 102 and guides 103 configured to receive and hold the cartridge 120 in the space 102, such that the cartridge 120 can move within the receptacle 101. For example, the cartridge 120 can slide in the guides 103 along a longitudinal axis A1 of the cartridge 120. The receptacle 101 may also include a pump activating device that is configured to operate the pump when the cartridge 120 is located within the receptacle 101. As shown in FIG. Figure 11, the pump activation device is an annular projection 104 extending from a surface 105 of the receptacle 101 and surrounding an opening 106 that is disposed on the surface 105. Other illustrative pump activation devices may include mechanisms of switching, levers, linear cams, rotating cams and similar mechanisms, as shown in Figure 16. Such mechanisms may apply r a force for closing the end 136 or the pump 150 and can be operated manually or automatically (for example, motor-driven, solenoid-driven). In the illustrative embodiment shown, the additive dispensing system 100 also optionally includes a cover 107 that is removably connected to the receptacle 101, containing the cartridge 120 between the receptacle 101 and the cover 107. The cover 107 may provide protection so that dirt and other debris do not interfere with the movement of the cartridge 120 within the receptacle. The cover 107 may also include a button 108 that is movably connected to the cover 107 and is configured to press against a closed end 136 (described hereinafter) of the cartridge 120, when the cartridge 120 is located within the receptacle 101. The receptacle 101, the cover 107 and the button 108 may comprise any size, shape and configuration without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Illustrative building materials for the receptacle 101, the cover 107 and the button 108 may include metals, plastics, composite materials and combinations thereof. In an illustrative embodiment, polymers are used to construct the receptacle, cover and button, for example, polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene, nylon, polyester, elastomers, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), silicone, neoprene and any combination thereof. The receptacle 101 can be connected to, mounted on, or manufactured directly in a water filter system mounted on a faucet 110. As shown in Figure 11, the receptacle 101 is manufactured directly in a cover cap 111 of the system. water filter 110. The water filter system 110 can be any conventional water filter system, as described herein or known or yet to be developed by someone with basic knowledge in the industry. Illustrative modes of water filter systems that can be included in the present invention are commercially available PUR water filter systems from Procter & amp;; Gamble Company of Cincinnati, Ohio. Such a cartridge can be a replaceable or disposable cartridge. The replaceable or disposable being allows the user to remove the cartridge 120 when the additive has been completely consumed, that is, the cartridge 120 is empty of the additive and replace the spent cartridge with a new unused cartridge (e.g., a cartridge filled with a additive). Alternatively, the additive dispensing system 100 allows the user to simply and easily replace a cartridge 120 containing a specific additive (eg, lemon flavor) and replace it with a different desired additive (eg, cherry flavor). In the illustrative embodiment, the cartridge 120 includes a housing 130 having a receptacle 139, an ampoule 140 disposed within the receptacle 139 and a pump 150 connected to an open end 137 of the housing 130 and in fluid communication with the ampoule 140. housing 130 may include side walls 132, 133, 134 and 135, a closed end 136 yu? open end 137. In this illustrative embodiment, the side walls 134 and 135 are essentially curved, such that the housing 130 has a curved cross section, as shown in Figure 13. The curved shape of the housing 130 is configured to allowing cartridge 120 to operate within multiple devices (eg, water filter systems mounted on faucets, jar mounted systems, portable additive dispensing systems, refrigerator, etc.). In addition, although the shape of the housing 130 may be designed to allow it to operate on multiple devices, it may also be configured to provide a large volume of receptacle to contain a reasonable amount of an additive. Therefore, the illustrative embodiment of curved shaped carcass 130 provides a balance between the two. In addition, the cartridge has a width that allows two cartridges to enter a water jug receptacle. An illustrative width of the cartridge 120 is from about 1.3 cm (0.5 inches) to about 7.6 cm (3.0 inches), another illustrative width of the cartridge 120 is in the range of about 2.5 cm (1.0 inch) to about 5.1 cm (2.0 inches) , especially about 3.8 cm (1.5 inches). The cartridge 120 may comprise a length of about 1.3 cm (0.5 inches) to about 10.2 cm (4.0 inches), more especially from about 5.1 cm (2.0 inches) to about 7.6 cm (3.0 inches). The housing 130 is curved to substantially wrap a pressure apparatus (eg, a filtration system mounted on a tap 110). For example, the side wall 134 is curved to substantially conform to or coincide with the curvature of the outer shell (e.g., back surface 109) of the faucet filtration system 110. The side wall 135 may also be curved to fit within the Curved cover 107 or to minimize the aesthetic effects of the angles of the filter mounted on a tap. The side wall 135 is curved to substantially conform to or coincide with the curvature of the cover 107 of the water filtration system 110. Furthermore, the substantial compliance of the side walls 134 with the curvature of the rear surface 109 allows for a better fit (ie say, a low tolerance setting) between the receptacle 101 and the cartridge 120. This allows the cartridge 120 to move smoothly and more efficiently within the receptacle 101. Figure 13 illustrates that the curved housing 130 includes two convex side walls 134 and 135 which are curves in the same general direction, i.e., the convex curvatures of both side walls 134 and 135 face in the same direction, as shown in Figure 13. In an illustrative embodiment, the curved side walls 134 and 135 are substantially parallel to each other. Figure 13 also shows that the cross section of the housing 130 includes an inner radius Rj and an outer radius R0. In an illustrative mode, the inner radius may have a range of about 5.1 cm (2.0 inches) to about 25.4 cm (10.0 inches) and the outer radius R0 may have a range of about 1.3 cm (0.5 inches) to about 12.7 cm (5.0 inches). In yet another illustrative embodiment, the inner radius may have a range of about 10.2 cm (4.0 inches) to about 15.2 cm (6.0 inches) and the outer radius R0 may have a range of about 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) to about 6.4 cm (2.5 inches). It is understood that the housing 130 may comprise a variety of shapes, configurations and sizes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The housing 130 can be made from a variety of conventional materials as known to someone with basic skills in the industry. Such material can be practically a rigid material, a semi-rigid material, a flexible material, or any combination thereof. In the illustrative embodiment, the housing 130 is made of a substantially rigid material. Illustrative materials for housing 130 include, but are not limited to, polymeric material, such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), high density polyethylene (HDPE), low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyvinyl chloride ( PVC), polystyrene, nylon, polyester and the like. In an illustrative embodiment, housing 130 is made of high density polyethylene (HDPE) manufactured by DOW Plastics, with a rating of 12450 N. In another illustrative embodiment, housing 130 may include a substantially rigid frame (i.e., no walls). lateral 132, 133, 134 and 135) to minimize costs and weight. Returning to Figure 12, the side walls 132, 133, 134 and 135 and the end 136 of the housing 130 define the receptacle 139 within the housing 130. The ampoule 140 is inserted into the receptacle 139. The ampoule 140 can be any type of conventional blister or configured in line to contain an additive in liquid, gel, or powder, as someone with basic skills in the industry knows. In the illustrative embodiment, the ampule 140 is a bag or envelope that is flexible and reinforced, with a V-cut that includes a vapor barrier (not shown). Such a flexible blister allows the cartridge 120 to be placed in any orientation (eg, horizontal or vertical) and still allows substantially all of the additive liquid contained in the ampule 140 to be dispensed therefrom without requiring a pressure relief or release device. to assist in dispensing the additive completely from the ampoule 140. As shown in Figure 11, the cartridge 120 is connected to the water treatment system 110 and maintained in a vertical orientation. The ampoule 140 can comprise single or multiple layer or laminate materials, including, but not limited to, foil laminates or metallized film bags, as known to someone with basic skills in the industry. Such materials may include a vapor barrier or vapor barrier properties. These laminates or film bags may also include a polyethylene laminate on their sealing surfaces. An illustrative foil laminate is commercially available from Sonoco, Inc. In the illustrative embodiment, the pump 150 is configured to be disposable together with the cartridge 120. There are several benefits in configuring the cartridge 120 to include a disposable pump in place. of designing the pump as a permanent fixation of the additive dispensing system 100 (e.g., connected to receptacle 101) and therefore not disposable. First, a disposable pump (e.g., pump 150) eliminates the problem of bacteria growth within the pump due to an accumulation of additives (eg, debris) inside the pump after being dispensed by the pump. Second, a disposable pump (for example, pump 150) reduces the reliability problems of the pump. If the pump has a permanent fixation of the additive dispensing system 100, it would wear out and stop working over time due to repetitive operations. Or, the pump must be manufactured taking into account such repetitive operations, which would increase its cost and weight. However, because the pump 150 is replaced with the depletion of the additive within the ampoule 140, it can be configured to handle the number of pump operations required to exhaust the amount of additive contained within the ampoule 140, making the cost of the pump. It also provides better reliability of the additive dispensing system 100. Third, if the pump is not replaced with the cartridge, the accumulation of additive of a type (eg, lemon flavor residue) inside the pump can produce cross contamination with a new additive (for example, cherry flavoring), thereby providing the consumer with an unsatisfactory taste and experience. By making the pump 150 disposable with the cartridge 120, the cross-contamination of flavorings within the pump is practically eliminated. It is understood that cartridge 120 can be configured to be a cartridge for reuse or replenishment without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. However, because the pump 150 will be essentially discarded or replaced with each removal or replacement of the consumable additive, it may be desired to configure an economical pump (e.g., the pump 150) to selectively dispense the additive from the ampoule 140. The illustrative pump 150 shown in Figures 12, 14 and 15 includes a pump body 151 having a pump opening 152 disposed therethrough, an inlet check valve 153 located in an opening of the pump 152 in a normally closed position, a diaphragm 154 disposed within the cavity 155 on the inlet check valve 153 and an outlet check valve 158 disposed along the diaphragm 154. As shown in Figure 12, the pump 150 is axially aligned with the housing 130, which also axially aligns the pump 150 with the ampule 140. Axially aligned, as used herein, means that the opening of the pump 152 is located a coaxially along the longitudinal axis of the housing A1. This axial alignment of the pump 150 with the housing 130 provides better pumping and dispensing of the additive from the ampoule 140. It allows a smaller pump to be used in a cartridge 120 because the axial alignment reduces the pumping forces required. In the illustrative embodiment shown, the ampoule 140, the pump body 151, the inlet check valve 153, the diaphragm 154 and the outlet check valve 158 include a fluid flow path running along the axis longitudinal A1 of the housing 130. The body of the pump 151 can be manufactured from a variety of conventional plastics such as high density polyethylene (HDPE). A Exemplary HpPE is commercially available from Dow Plastics, grade 12450 N. In this illustrative embodiment, the inlet check valve 153 located in the pump opening 152 functions as a self-sealing seal (eg, a septum) for the ampoule 140 and a one-way check valve. This multiple functionality reduces the amount of components required and thus the expense to manufacture the cartridge 120. When the diaphragm 154 is located over the inlet check valve 153, it defines a metering chamber 156. The diaphragm 154 includes a flat surface 157 and an outlet check valve 158 that is integrated with the diaphragm 154, such that it extends outward from the flat surface 157 and is in fluid communication with the chamber 156. The chamber 156 is also in fluid communication with the valve. inlet 153. Having the diaphragm 154 and the outlet check valve 158 integrated in one component reduces the manufacturing expense and the complexity of the pump 150. Even though the inlet check valve 153 is described with multiple functionality ( for example, valve and seal) and diaphragm 154 is described having an outlet check valve 158 integrated thereto, it is understood that a pump having a different seal, an inlet check valve, a diaphragm and an outlet check valve are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. The exit check valve 158 includes a pair of sealing surfaces 159 which are located at a distal end 160 of the outlet check valve 158. The exit check valve 158 extends and is configured such that once that the additive dispensed from the cartridge 120 passes through the sealing surfaces 159, the additive has completely come out of the cartridge and will have no other contact with either the cartridge 120 or the receptacle 101. In other words, neither the cartridge 120 nor the cartridge. receptacle 101 has an empty space in its flow path toward the sealing surfaces 159. Since both the cartridge 120 and the receptacle 101 have been configured to not include an empty space toward the sealing surfaces 159, neither provides a space for accumulate the additive dispensed. Such accumulation of additive can produce resistance to cartridge movement within the receptacle, bacterial growth, or cross-contamination of flavors. The accumulation of additives outside the check valve, where it is partially exposed to air, can evaporate leaving a residue that can inhibit the operation of the pump. Similar to the inlet check valve 153, the outlet check valve 158 is configured to be normally in the closed position and is in fluid communication with the metering chamber 156. In an exemplary embodiment, the inlet check valve 153 is an umbrella valve and the outlet check valve 158 is a duckbill valve. The inlet check valve 153, the diaphragm 154 and the outlet check valve 158 are made of a flexible material, especially flexible material with memory. Illustrative construction materials for the inlet check valve 153, the diaphragm 154 and the outlet check valve 158 include, but are not limited to, elastomers such as silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), buna, neoprene, EPDM.

An illustrative TPE used to manufacture the inlet check valve 153, the diaphragm 154 and the outlet check valve 158 is commercially available from West Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The ampoule 140 is sealed in a seal flange 166 of the pump body 151, such that the ampoule 140 is in fluid communication with the opening of the pump 152 and therefore with the inlet check valve 153. Seal the ampoule 140 to the seal flange 166 of the pump body 151, allows the elimination of a front side wall (for example, to cover an open end 137) in the housing 130, reducing the weight and manufacturing costs. The ampoule 140 and the body of the pump 151 are inserted into an open end 137 of the housing 130. The pump body 151 is connected to the housing 130 with a hot seal. It is understood that the body of the pump 151 and the housing 130 can be connected by a number of conventional technologies and methods, as is known to someone with basic skills in the industry, such as snap connections, glue, etc. The cartridge 120 also includes a clamping device 162 that connects (e.g., snap lock, hot stamp, spun hook, etc.) into the cavity 155 of the pump body 150 to hold the diaphragm 154 within the cavity 155. of the body of the pump. The clamping device 162 may also include a valve cap 164 that is connected to the clamping device 162 using snap-on pins 168 as known to someone with basic skills in the industry. Such a cover protects the exit check valve 158 from exposure to dirt, debris and damage before use. The clamping device 162 and the lid 164 can be made of plastic materials such as polypropylene. An illustrative material used to manufacture the fastener 162 and the lid 164 may be a 4039 homopolymer commercially available from BP Amoco Chemical Company. The lid 164 can be simply separated, by rotating the lid 164 towards the pressure pins 168. It is understood that the inlet and outlet valves 153 and 158 can comprise a variety of conventional one-way or retention valves, such as ball valves , valves to spring, or the like. In addition, as one skilled in the industry will appreciate, any pump known to someone skilled in the industry, such as positive displacement and centrifugal pumps can be used to deliver the additive from the ampoule 140 to the water within the container. Such illustrative modalities include, but are not limited to, piston pumps, peristaltic pumps, bellows-type pumps, piezo-electric pumps, diaphragm pumps (for example, as described above), rotary vane, etc. Alternatively, cartridge 120 may comprise, instead of pump 150, co-feed, gravity feed or pressurized feed systems for dispensing the additive from ampoule 140 to water. To fill the ampoule 140 with an additive, as described herein, a hollow needle (not shown) is inserted into and through the inlet check valve 153, which acts as a seal wrapper over the pump opening 152 (ie, sealing ampoule 140) to generate a vacuum within the ampoule 140. Once the vacuum is established within the ampoule 140, the needle is removed. Due to its shape, configuration and material, the inlet check valve 153 automatically reseals the needle hole created in the inlet check valve, acting as a self-sealing septum, as someone with basic skills in the industry knows. A second needle of a syringe-like device (not shown) containing the additive is inserted into and through the inlet check valve, allowing the additive to be dispensed into the ampule 140. Again, due to the shape , configuration and material of the inlet check valve 153, the hole made by the needle is self-sealing automatically (eg, self-sealing wall). The needles and the syringe-like device are well known to someone with basic skills in the industry and are not described herein. During operation, the lid 164 is removed by rotating from the cartridge 120. The cartridge 120 is inserted into the space 102 in the guides 103 of the receptacle 101, such that the flat surface 157 of the diaphragm 154 bears against the annular projection 104 and the outlet check valve 158 is inserted through the opening 106 of the receptacle 101. Once inserted, a user may have to prime the pump 150 to fill the chamber 156 with an amount of additive from the ampule 140. For example, the user may selectively apply a force to the closed end 136 in the open end direction 137 (or the pump 150) along the longitudinal axis A1 of the cartridge 120. When the force is applied to the housing 130, it presses the annular projection 104 against the flat surface 157, which depresses the diaphragm 154 causing the exit check valve 158 to open and camera 156 reduce its volume. The reduction of the volume of the chamber 156 forces any substance (eg, air or an additive) contained in the chamber 156 to be dispensed through the outlet check valve 158. Once the applied force is released from the end closed 136, the diaphragm 154 returns to its normal position due to the memory of the diaphragm 154, which expands the chamber 156 to its normal volume. Such expansion of the chamber 156 causes a vacuum within the chamber 156 that bends an annular valve seal 169 of the inlet check valve 153 out of the pump body 151, opening the inlet check valve 153. When the Inlet check valve 153 is open, vacuum within chamber 156 will also pull the additive through the pump opening 152 in chamber 156 from ampoule 140. Once diaphragm 154 and chamber 156 are again in their normal positions, the inlet and outlet check valves are closed, preventing air from being absorbed back into the ampoule 140 and the chamber 156. This process can be repeated several times to prime the pump and fill the chamber 156 with the additive. The pump (or metering chamber) can be configured to retain a desired dose (i.e., a pre-quantified or measured amount of the additive) to be dispensed with a pump operation. Illustrative dose amounts of the additive to be dispensed with each operation of the pump include from about 0.05 mL to about 1.0 mL. In another illustrative embodiment, the dose amount may include from about 0.15 mL to about 0.25 mL. Once the chamber is filled with the desired amount of additive (i.e., barley), the cartridge is ready to deliver an amount of additive to water from chamber 156. When a dose of additive is desired, the user applies a force at the closed end 137 in such a way that the projection 104 depresses the diaphragm 154, causing the exit check valve 158 to open and the amount of additive inside the chamber 156 to be dispensed from the exit check valve 158. As the When the additive is dispensed from the outlet check valve 158, an equal amount of the additive will be removed from the ampoule 140 through the inlet check valve 153 to replenish the chamber 156. The cartridge 120 or receptacle 101 may include a delivery device. measurement (not shown) for tracking or estimating the amount of additive that has been dispensed from the cartridge and the amount of additive remaining in the ampule 140. The measuring device can be to include, but not be limited to, a weight sensor for measuring the amount of additive remaining in ampoule 140, a dose counter, an electrical or electrode sensor to measure the change in resistivity of the fluid in the ampoule, an RFID tag (Radio frequency identification, opacity sensor, or similar devices that are used in other industries where the remaining amount of a consumable in a receptacle is controlled such as, for example, in the inkjet industry . It is not necessary to describe the measurement device in the present, since such a technology is known by any person with basic skills in the industry. Cartridge 120 or receptacle 101 may also include a life indicator of the additive (not shown) as described herein, which may be connected to the measuring device to indicate the amount of additive remaining in the cartridge 120 measured by the measuring device. For example, the cartridge 120 may comprise a visible level manometer (not shown) to allow the user to determine the amount of additive remaining in the receptacle. Further, it is understood that the cartridge 120 or receptacle 101 may include a communication link, such as a TAB circuit or radio frequency connection, to communicate data and signals between the cartridge, the water filter system or a computer or controller. With reference to Figure 17, the receptacle 101 may contain an interface 170, which may be interconnected with the cartridge 120. The interface 170 may be a distinct or integrated part of the receptacle 101 to prevent dirt, debris and other substances from entering the system. of water filtration 110 when the cartridge 120 is not a receptacle 101. The interface 170 includes a body 172 having an interface opening 174, a door 176 configured to open or close the opening 174, a spring 178 configured to bypass the cartridge 120 of the body of the interface 172 when the cartridge 120 is located in the interface 170 and a slot 179 disposed along the body 172. The door 176 is normally in the closed position over the opening 174. When the cartridge 120 is located in the receptacle 101, the door 176 still remains closed over the opening 174. However, when a user applies force to a closed end 136, moving the cartridge towards the body of the interface 172, a device for opening the door 180 (eg, a cam) located in the body of the pump 151 slides through the slot 179 to engage the door 176. A device for opening the door 180 moves the door 176 away from the opening 174 and thereby allows the outlet check valve 158 to move through the opening 174 and dispense the additive from the ampoule 140. Once the applied force is removed , the spring 178 moves the cartridge 120 away from the body of the interface 172, thereby disengaging a device for opening the door 180 from the door 176 and closing the opening 174. It is also understood that the interface 170 to be configured, such that the door 176 is normally in the closed position until the cartridge 120 is inserted in the interface 170 and a device for opening the door 180 moves the door 176 away from the opening 174. In this configuration, the interface 170 does not include a spring for diverting cartridge 120 away from the body of interface 172. However, a spring may be used to bias door 176 to its normally closed position. Another illustrative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 18. In this embodiment, the additive dispensing system 200 may include a receptacle 201 configured to receive the cartridge 120 in a movable hitch. The receptacle 201 may include a door 210 connected to the receptacle 201 near an opening 206 disposed in a surface 205 of the receptacle 201. The door 210 is configured to open and close the aperture 206, thereby preventing or allowing the check valve outlet 158 of the cartridge 120 enters the opening 206 and through the surface 205. A distal end 211 of the door 210 is fixed to the receptacle 201 such that the door 210 is cantilevered with respect to the receptacle 201 over the opening 206 In addition, the door 210 is deflected with a spring in the closed position over the opening 206. In this embodiment, the door 210 is made of a material having a memory or a constant spring that provides spring deflection. Alternatively, the receptacle 201 may include a separate spring (not shown) that engages the door 210 to deflect it in the closed position over the opening 206. The cartridge 120 or the door 210 may have a cam (not shown) that engages the door 210, or vice versa. When a force is applied to the cartridge 120 to operate the pump 150, the cam moves the door 210 away from the opening 206, allowing the outlet check valve 158 to dispense the additive through the opening 206 and into a container. The additive dispensing system 100, including cartridge 120 and receptacle 101, is not limited to use with faucets or the like. For example, the elements of the present invention can be adapted for use in portable containers, such as jars, water bottles or with other potable water delivery systems, such as water coolers. For example, the receptacle 101 may be connected to or integrated in a jar (not shown) or similar device, which includes a water filtration system (not shown), characterized in that the cartridge 120 may be configured to selectively dispense an additive into the container. the filtered water contained in the jar or in a container in which the filtered water has been placed from the jar.

Referring to Figure 19, another illustrative embodiment of a receptacle 300 is shown. The receptacle 300 includes a space 302 configured to receive the cartridge 120 as described herein. The receptacle 300 may include guides (not shown) internal to the space 302 that are configured to engage the cartridge 120 such that the cartridge 120 can slide into the space 302 in the receptacle 300. The receptacle 300 may include a device activating the pump (not shown) (eg, an annular projection 104) and an opening (not shown) disposed in side wall 306, which allows the outlet check valve 158 to protrude when the cartridge 120 is inserted in the receptacle 300. In this illustrative embodiment, the receptacle 300 may be a hand-held device, which allows the receptacle 300 and cartridge 120 to be portable. Alternatively, the receptacle 300 can be configured to be mounted in a stationary fixation (e.g., a wall). In the illustrative embodiment shown, the receptacle 300 includes fingers gripping points 304 disposed along opposite sides of the receptacle 300 to provide better handling of the receptacle 300 and, therefore, improve the dispensing of the additive from the cartridge 120. When the cartridge 120 is located in the receptacle 300, a user can hold the receptacle 300 with two fingers (or a thumb) and use a third finger to apply force to the closed end 136 of the cartridge 120 to operate the pump 150, to selectively select the additive from the cartridge 120.

Figure 20 illustrates another embodiment of an additive dispensing cartridge 400. In this embodiment, the additive dispensing cartridge 400 comprises a housing 430, a receptacle (not shown) disposed in the housing 430 and a pump 450. The housing 430 has a curved cross section defined by the curved side walls 431, 432, 433 and 434. Also, the housing 430 has an increased receptacle capacity (e.g., 2 times the capacity of the cartridge 120) compared to the cartridge 120 shown and described in FIG. present, to provide an increased dose cartridge. All documents cited in the detailed description of the invention are incorporated, in their pertinent part, herein by reference; A citation of any document should not be construed as an admission that it is prior industry with respect to the present invention. While particular embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the industry that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It has been intended, therefore, to cover in the appended claims all changes and modifications that are within the scope of the invention.

Claims (28)

1. A cartridge for selectively dispensing a water additive, comprising: a housing; an unventilated ampule disposed within the housing and configured to contain a consumable additive; and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the vial, the pump operates to selectively dispense a quantity of additive to the water; further characterized in that the cartridge is configured in such a way that it can dispatch the amount of additive from any orientation.

The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the pump comprises a diaphragm pump.

The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the pump comprises an inlet check valve in fluid communication with the vial; a diaphragm located on the inlet check valve that defines a chamber between the valve and the diaphragm; and an outlet check valve disposed in the diaphragm and in fluid communication with the chamber; further characterized in that the outlet check valve is configured to open when pressure is applied to the diaphragm to discharge the amount of additive contained within the chamber.

The cartridge according to claim 3, further characterized in that the pump further comprises a pump body connected to one end of the housing, the pump body has an opening therein; further characterized in that the blister is sealed to the pump body and in fluid communication with the opening; further characterized in that the inlet check valve is disposed within the opening; and further characterized in that the diaphragm is connected to the pump body and located on the inlet check valve.

The cartridge according to claim 3, further characterized in that the housing and the pump are substantially axially aligned with each other.

The cartridge according to claim 3, further characterized in that the inlet check valve functions as a self-sealing barrier on an opening of the pump disposed within the pump and an umbrella valve.

7. The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the pump comprises an outlet check valve extending from the pump, so that the sealing surfaces of the outlet check valve are located at a distal end of the pump. valve.

The cartridge according to claim 3, further characterized in that the inlet check valve, outlet check valve and diaphragm comprises a flexible material.

The cartridge according to claim 8, further characterized in that the flexible material comprises one or more elastomers selected from the group consisting of: silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), buna, neoprene, EPDM and combinations thereof.

The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the ampoule comprises a vapor barrier, flexible.

11. The cartridge according to claim 10, further characterized in that the ampoule is an envelope of aluminum foil with a V cut.

12. The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the casing is substantially rigid.

The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the cartridge is configured to operate selectively by pushing the housing to operate the pump to discharge the amount of additive.

The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the cartridge is configured to engage a receptacle and further characterized in that the pump is configured to be operated by the receptacle when force is applied to one end of the housing opposite the pump .

15. The cartridge according to claim 1, further characterized in that the cartridge is configured to engage a receptacle connected to a water filtration system.

16. The cartridge according to claim 15, further characterized in that the water filtration system is connected to a water tap.

17. The cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a measuring device for measuring the amount of additive remaining in the ampoule.

18. A cartridge for selectively dispensing a water additive, comprising: a housing; an ampule disposed in the housing and configured to contain an additive; and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the vial, further characterized in that the pump comprises an outlet check valve having sealing surfaces and functions to selectively dispense a quantity of additive to the water from the vial; further characterized in that the cartridge is configured to substantially not include an empty space towards the sealing surfaces.

The cartridge according to claim 18, further characterized in that the pump comprises an inlet check valve in fluid communication with the ampoule; and a diaphragm located on the inlet check valve defining a chamber between the inlet check valve and the diaphragm, further characterized in that the chamber is configured to contain the amount of additive; further characterized in that the outlet check valve is disposed on the diaphragm and in fluid communication with the chamber and is configured to open when the diaphragm is operated to dispense the amount of additive.

The cartridge according to claim 19, further characterized in that the amount is a prequantified amount of about 0.05 mL to about 1.0 mL.

21. A cartridge for selectively dispensing a water additive, comprising: a housing having a curved cross section; a receptacle disposed within the housing and configured to contain an additive; and a pump connected to the housing and in fluid communication with the receptacle, the pump configured to discharge an amount of additive from the receptacle when the pump is activated.

The cartridge according to claim 21, further characterized in that the housing comprises a first and a second convex curved side walls and further characterized in that the convex curvature of the first and second side walls face in the same direction.

The cartridge according to claim 21, further characterized in that the housing comprises an inner radius of about 3.8 cm (1.5 inches) to about 6.4 cm (2.5 inches) and an outer radius of about 10.2 cm (4.0 inches) to about 15.2 cm (6.0 inches).

The cartridge according to claim 22, further characterized in that the housing is configured to substantially conform to a curved surface of a water filtration system.

25. The cartridge according to claim 22, further characterized in that the cartridge is disposable and further characterized in that the receptacle is a blister.

26. The cartridge according to claim 14, further characterized in that the cartridge further comprises a device, for opening the door, arranged along the housing; further characterized in that the device for opening the door is configured to open a movable door connected to the receptacle and functioning to open and close an opening, in the receptacle to allow an additive to be dispensed from the cartridge.

27. The cartridge according to claim 18, further characterized in that the cartridge further comprises a device for opening the door arranged along the housing; further characterized in that the device for opening the door is configured to open a door connected to a receptacle that functions to open and close an opening in a receptacle to allow an additive to be dispensed from the cartridge.

28. The cartridge according to claim 21, further characterized in that the cartridge further comprises a device for opening the door arranged along the housing; further characterized in that the device for opening the door is configured to open a door connected to a receptacle that functions to open and close an opening in a receptacle, to allow an additive to be dispensed from the cartridge.