MXPA06001093A - Stormwater treatment system - Google Patents

Abstract

A system (100) for removing material from a flowing liquid, where the system (100) includes one or more cartridges (120), and an actuatable valve (334) positioned outside the one or more cartridges, where the valve (334) controls a flow rate of the flowing liquid within the treatment region (502) by actuating in response to a change in a level of the liquid in the treatment region (502).

Description

PE SYSTEM TREATMENT FOR RAINFALL This application claims the benefit of the US provisional patent application number 60 / 490,742, filed on July 28, 2003, entitled "Water Treatment System", the complete contents of which are incorporated herein by this reference.

FIELD PE INVENTION The inventions described herein relate to systems, apparatuses and methods for removing in part or all a material from a flowing fluid, treating rainwater, treating and purifying water, and controlling pollution.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Rainwater, as it falls to the ground, forms runoff and often solubilizes pollutants, suspends sediments, and carries debris and detritus, collectively referred to as materials, that have accumulated on surfaces, especially on impermeable surfaces such as as roads. The runoff then flows forward until it reaches a body of water that receives it, such as a lake. By the dragging of the materials towards the body of water that receives them, over time, an accumulation of these materials will take place in the receiving body, potentially harmful to the environment. Thus, there is a need for human intervention to eliminate contaminants, debris and debris, and / or sediments from runoff to prevent or limit the amount of these water bodies that receive them. Ideally, this intervention will eliminate runoff materials, and at the same time allow the running water to continue forward to the body of water that receives it. Moreover, this intervention must be automatic, and require little supervision or maintenance, or at least rely mainly on scheduled maintenance. The invention described here provides those objects and more.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention provides systems, apparatuses and methods for using them, for removing a material from a flowing liquid, such as rainwater. The invention provides in one aspect a system for removing material from a flowing fluid. Some embodiments of the system include one or more cartridges, wherein each cartridge has a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall that forms a region of media between the walls. Means are arranged within at least part of the region of means, to remove at least a part of the material from the flowing liquid. The cartridge may also include an inner lumen in the cartridge, in fluid communication with the permeable inner wall, and an outlet of the cartridge in fluid communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge. The system also includes a cartridge chamber having a treatment region that houses one or more cartridges. The cartridge chamber may also include an inlet to the chamber to accept the flowing liquid, and a chamber outlet to discharge the treated liquid. The system may additionally include an activatable valve positioned outside the one or more cartridges. The valve controls a flow rate of the liquid flowing within the treatment region, activating in response to a change in the level of the liquid in the treatment region. Some embodiments of the system include one or more cartridges, wherein each cartridge has a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall, which form a region of media between the walls. There are means placed within at least part of the media region, in order to remove at least a part of the material from the flowing liquid, the cartridge also has an inner lumen in fluid communication with the permeable inner wall, and an output of the cartridge in fluid connection with the inner lumen of the cartridge. The system also includes a cartridge chamber for the one or more cartridges. The cartridge chamber may also include an entrance to the chamber and an exit from the chamber. A duct can provide fluid communication between the outlet of the chamber and the outlet of the cartridge, and the outlet of the cartridge may be attached to the conduit by a non-threaded coupling. The system may also include an activatable valve placed on the outer side of the one or more cartridges. The valve controls a flow rate of the liquid flowing within the system by activating in response to a change in a level of the liquid in the cartridge chamber. Some embodiments include an activated valve to increase a flow of liquid through the valve as the liquid increases within the treatment region, with the liquid level maintained at approximately a selected level within the treatment region, where the cartridge is a plurality of cartridges, and further comprises a manifold manifold in fluid communication with each of the plurality of cartridges, and with the valve, the cartridge chamber is made entirely or partially of concrete, and the remainder of the cartridge is on the floor of the cartridge chamber. Some embodiments include one or more supports that are between the cartridge and the floor to raise the cartridge above the floor, the cartridge outlet and the valve communicate through a multiple coiler, including a coupling to connect the cartridge outlet to the manifold manifold, for example, wherein the coupling is made wholly or partly of a flexible material, and wherein the outlet of the cartridge is separable from the manifold manifold of the coupling, and wherein the valve is a gate valve (e.g. a variable rate valve) wherein the cartridge is attached to the coupling pressure, or to the manifold manifold, and / or where the manifold manifold can be removed from the cartridge chamber. In some modalities, the means of the group consisting of compost, vermiculite, activated carbon, zeolite, perlite, ion exchange media, peat and sand are chosen. Some embodiments including cartridges further comprise a protruding or depressed retainer connection, and the system further comprises a retainer for holding the cartridge at or approximately in a selected position within the cartridge chamber, with a service entrance of the cartridge chamber sized to allow a person to enter the cartridge chamber (for example, through a service entrance located on an upper wall of the cartridge chamber) and the system additionally comprises a landing region below the service entrance, where the person, when entering the cartridge chamber, can occupy the landing area. In some embodiments, the fluid that flows is water (for example, rainwater). In some embodiments, the liquid is non-aqueous or the liquid contains water, and the material contains a material component selected from the group consisting of sediment, fine suspended solids, algae, plant material, animal waste, contaminants, oil, by-products agricultural, herbicides, pesticides, garbage, detritus, heavy metals, copper, phosphates, and phosphorus. In still another aspect of the invention, the invention provides a system for removing material from a flowing liquid. The system includes one or more cartridges, the cartridge has a permeable outer wall, a permeable inner wall, the permeable outer wall and the permeable inner wall define a region of media therebetween, means disposed within part or all of the media region , the means are capable of removing some of the material or all of the liquid that flows when the flowing liquid makes contact with the media, an inner lumen of the cartridge in communication with the permeable inner wall, and a cartridge exit port in communication with the cartridge. the inner lumen of the cartridge; a cartridge chamber for housing the cartridges, the chamber has an entrance to the chamber, an exit from the chamber, the outlet of the chamber is in communication with the outlet of the cartridge by means of a conduit; a valve to regulate the flow through the cartridge chamber, the valve is activated in response to changes in a liquid level within the cartridge chamber, where the cartridge outlet is attached to the conduit through an unthreaded stock . Another aspect of the invention provides a method for removing a material from a flowing liquid, which comprises the steps of providing a system comprising a cartridge chamber having an entrance to the chamber and an outlet of the chamber, and one or more cartridges therein, the cartridge has a permeable outer wall, a permeable inner wall, the outer permeable wall and the permeable inner wall define a region of media therebetween, means disposed within part or all of the media region, the means are capable of removing part or all of the liquid material flowing when the flowing liquid makes contact with the media, an inner lumen of the cartridge in communication with the permeable inner wall, and a cartridge exit port in communication with the lumen inside of the cartridge; flow the liquid that contains the material through the system, so that the liquid flows through the cartridge and makes contact with the media, with which some or all of the material is linked to the medium, so that all the material It is removed from the liquid that flows once it passes through the cartridge chamber. Another aspect of the invention provides a method for changing cartridges in a cartridge chamber used to remove material from a flowing liquid, comprising the steps of: providing a system comprising a cartridge chamber having an inlet to the chamber and an outlet of the chamber, and one or more cartridges therein, the cartridge has a permeable outer wall, a permeable inner wall, the permeable outer wall and the permeable inner wall define a region of media therebetween, means disposed within part or the entire media region, the means are capable of removing part or all of the fluid material that flows when the flowing liquid makes contact with the medium, an inner lumen of the cartridge in communication with the permeable inner wall, and a port of output of the cartridge in communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge, the output port of the cartridge is in communication with the output of the chamber by means of a to, where the outlet of the cartridge is attached to the conduit by an unthreaded coupling; detach the cartridge from the conduit, and replace the cartridge with a new cartridge by attaching the cartridge to the conduit with the unthreaded coupling. Yet another aspect of the invention provides a method for changing cartridges in a cartridge chamber that is used to remove material from a flowing liquid, which comprises the steps of: providing a system comprising a cartridge chamber having an inlet of the chamber and an outlet of the chamber, and one or more cartridges therein, the cartridge has a permeable outer wall, a permeable inner wall, the permeable outer wall and the permeable interior skin define a region of media therebetween, means disposed therein of part or all of the media region, the means are capable of removing some or all of the material from the liquid flowing when the flowing liquid makes contact with the medium, an inner lumen of the cartridge in communication with the permeable inner wall, and a cartridge output port in communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge, the output port of the certucho is in communication with the outlet of the cartridge a by means of a conduit, wherein the outlet of the cartridge is connected to the conduit by an unthreaded coupling, wherein the cartridge chamber further comprises a valve for controlling the flow of the liquid through the cartridge chamber, the valve being activates in response to changes in a liquid level inside the cartridge chamber, outside the cartridges, in such a way as to maintain the level of the liquid inside the cartridge chamber at approximately a selected level while the liquid is flowing through of the cartridge chamber; detach the cartridge from the conduit, and replace the cartridge with a new cartridge by attaching the cartridge to the conduit with the unthreaded coupling. Further modalities and features are set forth in part in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art when examining the specification, or may be learned by practicing the invention. The features and advantages of the invention can be realized and achieved by means of the instrumentalities, combinations and methods described in the specification.

BRIEF PESCRIPTION PE LOS PIBUJOS Figure 1 illustrates an array of cartridges arranged within a cartridge chamber. Figures 2a-d show various cartridge assemblies to a manifold manifold. Figure 3 illustrates a view in the plane of modalities of a treatment system. Figure 4 illustrates a graphical representation of system characteristics. Figure 5 illustrates another graphic representation of the features of the system. Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of modalities of a treatment system. Figure 7 illustrates modalities of a treatment system operating in a low flow state. Figure 8a illustrates a cross-sectional view of system modalities operating in the processing state. Figure 8b illustrates a cross-sectional view of embodiments of an overflow diverter operating in an overflow condition. Figure 9a illustrates a perspective view of embodiments of an overflow diverter operating in a high flow state. Figure 9b illustrates a perspective view of embodiments of an overflux diverter operating in an overflow condition. Figures 10a and 10b illustrate a cross-sectional view of embodiments of an overflow diverter operating in an overflow condition. Figures 11a and 11b illustrate a plan view of a diverter. Figures 12a to 12c illustrate a plan view of a system. Figures 13a to 13c illustrate a plan view of a support system.

Figures 14a and 14b illustrate a cross-sectional view of the use of a retainer support.

PETALLAPA PESCRIPTION PE THE INVENTION The invention provides systems, devices, and methods for using them, to treat flowing water, for example to remove some or all of the pollutants carried in rainwater run-off. In general, the invention provides a treatment system comprising a cartridge chamber having an inlet and an outlet, and one or more cartridges housed therein. The cartridges contain means that are suitable for removing one or more contaminants from the rainwater when it comes into contact with the media. The treatment system also includes devices that work in concert to regulate the flow of liquid through the chamber of cartridges, in such a way that the cartridges operate within selected flow rates to optimize the elimination efficiency of contaminants, including, without limitation to them, valves to regulate the flow of liquid through the cartridges, and deviators to divert the flow of excess liquid, in order to prevent the release of contaminants retained in the cartridge chamber, in the event of overflow GENERAL SYSTEM Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a system according to embodiments of the invention. The liquid treatment system 100 comprises a cartridge chamber 1 10, which houses cartridges 120 attached to manifold 130. Below the perspective view is a side visa showing the three general regions of the cartridge chamber, a region overflow control 333, a treatment region 313, and a flow control region 334. The cartridge chamber 1 10 is further divided into a flow control region, a treatment region comprising a settling zone and a buffer zone. of treatment, and a valve region, where a valve is housed to regulate the flow through the system. In general, the liquid flows in the cartridge chamber 1 10 through an inlet, which is not shown. The liquid then flows to and through the cartridges 120 and through the manifold 130, which leads to an outlet, which is not shown. As the liquid flows through the cartridge chamber 1 10, the material (eg contaminants and sediments) is removed from the flowing liquid. For example, as the liquid that carries sediments enters the cartridge chamber, its speed becomes slower to allow sedimentation on the floor of the cartridge chamber 1 10. The liquid flow out of the cartridge chamber 1 10, for example, can be regulated to cause an increase in the liquid level inside of the cartridge chamber '1 10, resulting in the creation of a liquid column on top of the cartridges 120. The treatment region 212 is further divided into a treatment zone 502, where the liquid enters the cartridges 120 when the liquid is present in the treatment zone 502, and the sedimentation zone 503, where the sediments suspended in the liquid that is flowing inward can be deposited and accumulated below the cartridges 120, when they are supported on the floor of the cartridge chamber.

CARTRIDGES AND MULTIPLE COLLECTORS Figure 2a shows a cartridge 120 hg an outer cartridge wall 140 and an inner cartridge wall 150, hg placed therebetween a region of means 154 hg therein and the median 155, and wherein the inner wall 150 further defines the lumen 153 of the cartridge that is in communication with the outlet of the cartridge 170. The output of the cartridge 170 is either directly connected to the manifold 130 or indirectly by the coupling 180. The coupling 1 80 can be attached either to the manifold 120, to the output cartridge 170, or both, and may be attached using a threaded coupling, or a non-threaded coupling, which may include one or more hose-type fasteners, an adapter with wedges, an adapter of type bayonet, a compression adapter. In some embodiments, the coupling 180 is of sufficient length to allow the cartridge 120 to be raised above the floor of the cartridge chamber, so as to prevent the accumulation of sediment against some of the outer panels 140, creating a sedimentation area disposed between the floor of the cartridge chamber and the cartridge 120. In some embodiments, the cartridge 120 can be disassembled to allow cleaning of the inner and outer walls of the cartridge, and to allow the exchange or reconditioning of the means 155. protrusion or retainer depression 613 provides a point of attachment or contact for a retainer bar that restricts movement of the cartridge 120 during operation. The retaining protrusion 613 may be placed on the part of the cartridge 120 placed at the outlet of the cartridge 170. Occasionally , cartridges 120 can be removed from the system for maintenance or replacement. In embodiments where the coupling is an adapter with clamping wedges, a snap-fit adapter, or a compression-type coupling, a coupling separating tool can be used to separate the manifold manifold coupling, thereby releasing the cartridge 120. For example, a coupling separator tool can be a lever handle that ends in a fork, where the distance between each fork tooth is greater than the width or diameter of the coupler, in such a way that the fork slides after coupling, so that the handle of the lever can be articulated to cause a spacing force to be applied between the coupling and the manifold or the outlet of the cartridge, resulting in separation of the cartridge from the manifold manifold. The cartridge 120 can be manufactured from a variety of materials. For example, the outer and inner walls of the cartridge may be made of a permeable material, such as a porous material or a screen, plastic, polymer (s) and / or metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, stainless steel, etc.). .). The outer and inner walls 140 and 150 can be specially treated to minimize the buildup of material on their surfaces. For example, the outer wall 140 may be coated with a non-stick material such as PTFE or Teflon, to prevent adhesion of the sediments to the surface of the outer wall 140. In other embodiments, a pre-filter sleeve may be placed, shown, against the outer wall 140 to provide additional treatment capacity to the cartridge 120. The pre-filter sleeves may be made of foam (eg, elastomeric foam), woven fabric (eg, glass fiber or a polymer). In USE, the pre-filters will be changed between the cartridge changes to effectively prolong the life of the cartridge. This is especially useful in applications where suspended fine solids are found that do not settle easily, but are large enough to plug the interstitial spaces within the bed formed by the media. In this situation, the pre-filter will be used to catch these fine solids from the l lt.liquid before the liquid is in contact with the media in the bed. The pre-filters can also provide a treatment for the fluid, different from the treatment provided by the media, thus creating a combination of treatments. Moreover, in some embodiments, the media may be mixed media, wherein different media components are layered and / or mixed together within the media region of the cartridge 120. The cartridges may additionally include ends 141, which serve to separating the outer and inner walls of the cartridge 140 and 150, and to close the ends of the media space. The ends 141 may be made of wood, metal, plastic or a polymer, among other materials compatible with the liquid to be treated. The ends 141 may additionally include one or more depressions to receive the edges of the outer and / or inner wall of the cartridge, to retain and protect the edge of these walls from binding or snagging during movement or replacement of the cartridges 120. The cartridge 120 may additionally include a shield which in some embodiments, additionally protects the outer wall 140 of the stopper cartridge, providing a longer fluid path in which the fluid containing fine solids can flow. This longer path serves to reduce turbulence of the fluid as it enters the cartridge 120. The outer shield can additionally provide other benefits such as those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,027,639, by Lenhart, and co-inventors, and 5,707,527, by Knutson and co-inventors, both incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, and the specific purposes described herein and there. Figure 2b illustrates a linear array of cartridges 120 that are attached to the manifold 130 by means of the coupling 180. The plurality of cartridges 120 is held in place by the retainer 600. Figure 2c illustrates how the coupling 180 can be stretched (FIG. which joins the cartridge 120 with the manifold 130). Figure 2d illustrates how the coupling 180 can be flexible between the cartridge 120 and the manifold 130. When the coupling 180 is flexible, it can be adapted to allow movement of each cartridge 120 on its connection to manifold 130 and also with with respect to the other cartridges 120. Some embodiments use a flexible hose that is press-fitted or slidably adjusted at the outlet of the cartridge, to provide easy removal of the cartridge 120 during maintenance or replacement. Figure 3 illustrates a view in the plane (ie, bird's-eye view) of the cartridge chamber 1 10 having a plurality of cartridges 120 therein. A diverter 310 is also shown, and a housing Valve 245 that houses a valve. Both the diverter and the valve housing are described further below.

VALVES AND ACTIVATION PE VALVE System modalities can include the use of a flow valve and a diverter to control the level (eg, depth) of the liquid in the cartridge chamber, as well as the flow rate of the liquid that it goes through the camera. Line A of the idealized graph shown in Figure 4 graphs the depth of liquid in the chamber of a cartridge as a function of the rate of liquid flowing in the chamber system (line B). The graph also shows an overflow rate of liquid that is discharged from the system (line C) as a function of the flow rate of the liquid entering the system. Additional details about the interrelationships between the liquid depth, the liquid inflow rate, and the overflow discharge rate shown in Figure 4 will be given below. In operation, a valve can be used to regulate the depth of the liquid in the cartridge chamber. The liquid to be treated flows through the cartridges, in the cartridge lumens, inward through the coupling and manifold to the valve, where the valve controls the flow of liquid through the cartridges, from such that the level of liquid collected in the cartridge chamber is substantially maintained at approximately a selected level within a range of flow rates entering the system. Figure 5 provides an idealized graphic illustration of the relationship between the liquid discharge rate from the cartridge system, controlled at least in part by valve activation, as a function of the liquid depth in the treatment region of the liquid. the cartridge chamber. The region "(v)" of Figure 5 is a region where the depth of the liquid in the treatment region is sufficiently low so that the valve remains substantially closed. With the valve closed, the liquid can accumulate in the cartridge chamber until the liquid level reaches a certain point (ie, the "E" point). When the liquid level reaches the "E" point, the valve can begin to open ("activation"), to increase the flow of liquid from the treatment region through the cartridges and into the outlet. The valve opening can increase with increasing liquid level through the "(w)" region, until the valve is fully open at point "F". After point "F" is reached, the liquid discharge rate through the open valve may increase slightly with the increase in depth as shown in the region "(x)". When the liquid level in the chamber reaches the point "G" the liquid overflow can be discharged from the system, further increasing the discharge rate in the region "(y)". Figure 6 illustrates one embodiment of a cartridge system in operation, shown in cross-sectional view. As shown, the cartridge system 100 comprises the cartridge chamber 1 10 having the inlet of the chamber 210 and the outlet of the chamber 220. Inside the cartridge chamber 1 10 is the cartridge 120, which is in communication with valve 230 through coupling 180 and manifold 130, wherein valve 230 is activated by changes in fluid level 200 of treatment region 313 shown in Figure 1. The valve 230 is activated by the valve shaft 240, which is connected to the arm of the valve 250, since the arm of the valve 250 changes position, as shown by the double arrow, in relation to the changes at the level of fluid 200, which causes movement of the float 261, which acts on the arm of the valve 250 through the float that connects with the axis 280. As shown in the embodiment illustrated in figure 6, a As the float 261 moves upward away from the floor 1 10, the arm of the valve 250 moves up to open the valve 230, thereby allowing increased amounts of liquid to flow through the valve 230, which causes increased flow through the means 155, thereby eliminating some or all of the material in a fluid that flows through the cartridge system. Figure 7 illustrates a valve 230 in a closed state in response to the liquid level 200 that is below the actuation point of the valve 230. In some embodiments, a residual amount of fluid remains in the treatment region 313 in the Figure 1, in such a way that zone 503 is kept hydrated to minimize the solidification of the sediments. In some embodiments, a drainage port allows the liquid to be emptied from the treatment zone 502 of the cartridge chamber, such that the liquid level within the treatment region 313 is maintained slightly above the settling zone 503 Figure 8a illustrates an embodiment in which the diverter 310 further comprises the treatment conduit 21 1 for introducing liquid into the treatment region 313 of Figure 1, within or above the sedimentation zone 503, through the diffuser 212, which directs the effluent from the treatment conduit 21 1 in a direction substantially parallel to the floor of the chamber, in order to reduce agitation of the sediment during operation. In some embodiments, the diffuser 212 is a "T" junction that has one inlet and two or more outlets. In operation, the system illustrated in Figure 8a operates in the following manner. After the liquid enters the system through the inlet of the chamber 210, it passes through the diverter 310, where the liquid in a first state without overflow, flows into the diverter 310, and is routed completely into the conduit of treatment 21 1, which ends in the interior of the treatment region 313 in or on the settling zone 503. As the liquid level increases from the settling zone 313 in the treatment zone 502, the float 261 begins to move upwards, thus activating valve 230. Upon activation, valve 230 opens and liquid will begin to flow through cartridge 120, inward through manifold 130 and through valve 230, finally leaving the system through the outlet 220. Ai route the liquid directly in the sedimentation zone, the suspended sediments can settle on the floor of the chamber more quickly than if the liquid a into the upper leg of the treatment region 313, further limiting the potential for clogging of the outer and middle walls of the cartridge 120. In another embodiment, a valve can be used to control the flow of liquid from the lumen of the cartridge in relation to the liquid level within the lumen of the cartridge 130. An example of this type of valve arrangement is described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,027,639 to Lenhart and co-inventors, and 5,707,527 to Knutson and co-inventors, both incorporated herein by reference for all purposes, and for the specific purposes described here and there. The Lenhart or Knuston valve system can be combined with the valve system of the present invention to additionally control the liquid level both inside and outside the cartridge. Figure 8b illustrates the system operating in an overflow condition wherein the flow rate of the liquid is sufficiently large to cause a portion of the liquid to flow over the spillway 320 of the diverter and forward through the spillway. deviation 300. Both the part of the liquid routed by the liquid diversion and the part that flows through, of the cartridges, of the "treated" liquid, meet, in some embodiments, in the housing of the valve 245, before flowing out of the system through the 220 output of the camera. In other modalities, the treated and diverted parts of the liquid can be handled independently outside the cartridge system. In some embodiments, the valve 230 is not activated until the level of the liquid 200 is above the upper region of the cartridge 120, such that substantially all of the outer wall of the cartridge 150 is submerged under the liquid before it is activated the valve 230 to increase the fluid flow of the lumen of the cartridge 153 through the conduit 230, and finally through the outlet 210. In some embodiments, a low flow allows the fluid to pass through the cartridge system when the rate flow rate is low, wherein the fluid passes through the cartridge 120. In some embodiments, the low flow output is achieved by the incomplete closing of the valve 230, or by the liquid route between the treatment region 313 and the exit from camera 220.

OVERFLOW AND DEFLECTION Another aspect of the invention provides, in certain embodiments, a diverter for diverting the overflow of liquid into a bypass duct, such that the liquid level is further regulated within the treatment area of the cartridge chamber. A diverter may be external and upstream of the cartridge chamber, or may be located within the cartridge chamber. By placing the diverter inside the cartridge chamber, the cost of construction can be reduced, because only one hole needs to be opened, for installations on the ground, and because all the components can be included in a pre-fabricated structure of "one piece", or in parts that can be assembled at the installation site of the system. A diverter acts primarily to prevent flow through the treatment region 313, in excess of the flow that can be passed through the cartridges, in order to prevent overflow in the treatment region 313 and runoff or sweep. of the settled sediments captured in the treatment region 313, from the carrying of these sediments further downstream of the system. By diverting the overflow around the treatment region 313, the liquid to be treated can be treated in a manner that optimizes the capacity of the cartridge, including maintaining flow through the cartridge in a range of flow rate consistent with the optimum flow rate range for the particular cartridge and the media contained therein, as well as for optimizing the sedimentation conditions within the treatment region 313 shown in Figure 1. As noted above, Figure 4 illustrates a graphical representation detailing feature characteristics of a system wherein the diverter and the flow valve work together to handle the flow of liquid through the cartridge chamber. Line A represents the relative depth of the liquid in the treatment region 313, line B represents the flow rate of the liquid entering the system, and line C represents the flow rate of the fluid overflow discharging from the system. During the time when line B approaches point (p) in the graph, the control valve is substantially closed to cause the liquid flowing inward to accumulate in treatment region 313, as shown by the line A, which shows that the water depth increases rapidly, due to accumulation, then a plateau level of the liquid is obtained at a desired depth, and the valve opens to increase the flow of liquid through the cartridges. The beginning of the liquid deviation begins at the point (q) where the regulation of water flowing in the treatment region 313 begins to be limited by the diverter, as the liquid flowing inwards allows the pouring on a Overflow spillway that is in communication with a diversion conduit, which transfers liquid from the interior side of the system to the outlet side of the system, and can be joined with the post-treatment effluent that flows from the cartridges. As the input flow to the system increases further during deviation, the flow through the treatment region 313 remains substantially the same, however, slight increases in the level of the liquid occur, as shown in FIG. inclined region of line A, in the legend as (r). Once the inflow into the system exceeds the deviating capacity, the excess incoming liquid flow is routed into the treatment region 313, which, at point (t), establishes a higher level than the valve housing the spillway, causing a portion of the water in the treatment region 313 to flow directly into the valve housing without first flowing through the cartridge, thereby resulting in, that forms a diversion flow path in the second stage. Figure 9a illustrates an example of diverter 310 in communication with the inlet 210 having liquid flow 50 flowing therethrough. As the liquid flow 50 flows in the diverter 31 0, it divides into two flow paths 333, which are routed over the walls of the overflow weir 315, which are separated from the walls of the diverter 312 in one direction. distance such that when the liquid flow 50 exceeds a certain flow rate, a part of liquid flow 50, overflow 330, spills over the wall of the spillway 320 and flows down through the overflow passages 300, then out of the cartridge chamber 1 10. The non-diverted portion of liquid flow 50, treatment flow 335, flows out of the diverter outlet 337 in the treatment region 313, where it then flows "through the cartridges, manifold manifold, valve and outlet of the chamber Figure 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment, wherein the flow paths 330 include routing the liquid in the treatment conduits 339, and optionally through a "T" connection. diverter 314, in a divided flow path 370, which flows outward a distance in a direction substantially parallel to the floor of the cartridge chamber. Figures 10a and 10b illustrate a cross-sectional view of diverter 310. In Figure 10a, the flow of liquid, shown as an arrow, through diverter 310, has a rate that is below the overflow. Figure 10b illustrates in cross-section, how a part of the liquid flow, shown as a bifurcated arrow, flows over the spillway of the diverter 320 and down through the overflow conduit 300. Figure 1 1 a illustrates a view in the plane of an exemplary mode of a diverter. The inlet 210 routes the liquid flow 50 in the diverter 310, where two flow paths 61 are established and flow to the treatment region 313. Figure 1 1 b illustrates the same view in the plane of Figure 1 1 a, but shows the effect of an increased liquid flow 50 which causes a portion of that liquid to spill over the spillway of the diverter 320, and flow forward through the overflow conduits 399, thereby causing a part of the liquid flow 50 deviates from the treatment region 313. Figures 12a to 12c illustrate a flow diagram seen in the plane at different flow stages for embodiments according to the invention. Figure 12a illustrates the flow scheme through the chamber of the system cartridge 10 during the accumulation step. The valve 230 closes in response to a low liquid level in the treatment region 313, preventing the flow of treated liquid 500 from the manifold 1 30 from the outlet chamber of the cartridge 110 and causing the liquid to flow. accumulate in the treatment region 313. In Figure 12a, the cartridges and support frames have been removed for clarity. Since Figure 12a is in a lower state than the superfuse, substantially no fluid is present in the diversion conduit 300 or the outlet of the chamber 220. Figure 12a illustrates the flow path of the system when it is in the treatment stage. , wherein the flow of treated liquid 500 flows through the valve 230 now open to pass through the housing of the valve 245 and the outlet 220 as effluent 501. The flow rate of the effluent 501 varies according to the rate of flow. flow into the system, in such a way as to maintain the liquid level in the treatment region 313 above a selected level (for example, on the cartridges). Accordingly, during the relatively low flow inlet events, the effluent 501 will be relatively low, similarly, even though the liquid level within the treatment region 313 remains above a selected level (for example, above the cartridges). - Figure 12c illustrates the flow path of the system when it is in the treatment / overflow stage As in Figure 12b, the flow of treated liquid 500 continues to flow through valve 230, housing 245, and outlet 220 to become effluent 501. Meanwhile, diverter 310 has passed to overflow condition and a portion of the flow inlet liquid is flowing over spillway of diverter 320 and flows through bypass conduit 300 as overflow of untreated liquid 520, which can be mixed with treated liquid flow 500 to form a composite effluent 501 containing treated and untreated liquid In other embodiments, the treated liquid flow 500 and the untreated liquid overflow 520 are routed to different receiving bodies, a non-limiting example is that the flow of treated liquid is routed to a storage reservoir for irrigation, while the flow of liquid If untreated, it is routed to a natural receiving body. In some embodiments, a diverter is located outside the cartridge chamber, where the diverter routes the overflow around the cartridge chamber. In some embodiments, a secondary deflection conduit may be located within the cartridge chamber to increase the flow deflection capacity beyond the flow capacity of the primary deflection condi- tion, and to avoid travel of the treatment region. 313 when the excess capacity is routed through the treatment region 313 because the inflow into the system exceeds the overflow and / or the processing capacity of the cartridge.

SUPPORTS AND RETAINERS Another aspect of the invention provides cartridges with support. In some embodiments, the cartridges are raised above the floor of the cartridge chamber on supports (eg, movable supports) that can be moved during the operation and / or maintenance of the system, such as the non-limiting example of cleaning, where the supports can be moved away from the floor to facilitate the elimination of accumulated sediments. In other embodiments, the cartridges are held by retainers on top that hold or hold the location of each cartridge in a fixed position. In still other embodiments, the cartridges are supported by a combination of support between the floor of the cartridge chamber and the cartridge, and a retainer on top. The embodiments of a system including supports are illustrated in Figures 13a through 13c. Figure 13a illustrates the cartridge chamber 10 with a plurality of cartridges 120 distributed thereon, wherein the cartridges rest on one or more supports 260 (eg, support frame). In some embodiments, the support 260 laterally places the cartridges 120, as well as elevates the cartridges 120 above the floor of the cartridge chamber. In some modalities, the lateral support is achieved by means of a two-lane support where the exit or cabling of the cartridge is flanked by each support rail, in such a way as to prevent the cartridges from slipping out of the support in a direction approximately normal to the run of these rails. In some embodiments, the cartridges may slide along the runway tracks, but not to the side of the tracks. A transverse track may be included to provide lateral sliding of the cartridges between two or more tracks, to allow "track change". The supports can be made of materials compatible with the liquid to be treated, including, without limitation, stainless steel, aluminum, bronze, plastic, polymers, or any combination of these materials. The tracks may additionally include sliding inlays to provide a bearing surface for sliding on the track, in order to reduce the effort required to move the cartridges on the cartridge chamber on top of the supports. In some embodiments, the supports further include legs, such as collapsible legs that collapse or are movable when the support is moved or articulated. The retainers, which may include a retainer bar, may hold a plurality of cartridges in a line of a cartridge array. In some embodiments where several lines of cartridges are used, several retainer bars may be used to retain each line. Several lines may also be supported by a transverse retainer bar which retains each of the retention bars one with respect to the others. The retainer bars may be separable from the cartridges and from another transverse retainer bar. The retainer bars, and in particular, the transverse retainer bars, may be attached or be connectable to the cartridge chamber (eg, to one or more walls of the cartridge chamber) or to a support, if used. Also some embodiments may provide for the attachment of retainer bars and / or transverse retainer bars by combinations of bar receiving pockets and retention pegs on opposite walls of the cartridge chamber. Figure 13b illustrates the same embodiment of Figure 13a, however, the cartridges 120 have been removed, as would be the case in the case of changing cartridges or floor cleaning procedures. The supports 260 further comprise transverse sub-support arms 266 which are movably attached to the walls of the cartridge chamber at the junction points 265 (for example, hinges). Figure 13c illustrates the movement of supports 260 to move away from the floor of the cartridge chamber 1 1, thus reducing the obstructions present in the area adjacent to the floor, in such a way that accumulated sediments can be removed from the cartridge chamber. Couplings 180, as shown for example in Figure 12a, are not shown in Figures 13a through 13c for clarity. A transverse view of a modality having a movable support is illustrated in Figures 14a and 14b. Figure 14a shows an intact system wherein the interior of the cartridge chamber 10 is housing a plurality of cartridges 120 supported. above the floor 1 1 1 by the supports 260. The supports 260 are raised above the floor 1 1 1 by the legs 263 and the wall support 265 (for example, a hinged base). The supports 260 further comprise rails 264 which flank the outlet / coupling of the cartridge 120 to laterally stabilize the cartridges 120. The cartridges 120 are further supported in their position by the retainer 600, which may comprise retainer bars 615, wherein the bars retainer 615 may run substantially parallel to rails 264. Retaining bars may be attached directly to the walls of the cartridge chamber, or indirectly attached through the transverse retainer bars, or by a combination of both. The cartridges 120 can make contact with the retainer bars 615 by a contact point in the retainer (e.g., the protrusion 613 of the retainer). The retainer bars 615 may additionally be spatially isolated, by the transverse retainer bars 601 which are attached to the retainer bars 615 and the cartridge chamber 110, such as a wall of the cartridge chamber 110, and may be attached by a removable fastener, eg, a receiving pocket 620 and a retaining / receiving pin 610, but not limited thereto, which run substantially perpendicular to the retainer bars 615. The invention also includes methods for using the system and the devices described here. For example, removal of the cartridges 120 from the cartridge chamber 110 may be performed as follows. First, the retainer pins 619 are removed from its receiver, to release the transverse retainer bar 601. Then, the retainer bars 615 are released from the retaining projections 613. With the retainer 600 removed, the cartridges 120 can be moved, for example, inclined to reveal the access to the coupling 180 to detach the coupling 180 from the cartridge 120. With the coupling 180 now separated from the cartridge 120, the cartridge 120 can be moved more or less extensively, and removed from the cartridge chamber 1 10, for example, through an access hole located in the upper wall of the cartridge chamber 1 10, and for example, using a hoist located outside the cartridge chamber 1 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12b where the cartridges 120 have been removed, supports 260 can be moved away from the floor 1 1 1 by lifting the side of hinge 265 mounted on the distal support wall, to balance support 260 off the track. In some embodiments, a latch retains the support 260 against the wall during service. The couplings 180 can remain adjacent to the floor 1 1 1, partially immobilized by the accumulated surrounding sediment, if it occurs at sufficient levels. The couplings 180 can then be moved away from the floor 1 1 1, and temporarily attached to the wall to further expose the floor 11 for cleaning. Alternatively, the manifold 130 can be removed from the cartridge chamber 1 10 during cleaning and maintenance, and then reinstalled and attached by belts, thereby further exposing the floor 11, and allowing maintenance and repair of the manifold. multiple 130 and the couplings 1 80 outside the cartridge chamber 130. In another embodiment, the couplings 180 can be fixedly connected to the support 260, such that when the support 260 moves away from the floor 1 1 1, the couplings 180 can be moved and kept away from the floor 1 1 1.

OTHER FEATURES Another aspect of the invention provides devices for reporting errors or status, which change their status at the occurrence of an event. For example, a lever having a float attached to it, can be moved and latched in an upward state on the level of liquid inside the cartridge chamber, which exceeds a certain point, thus indicating that there was an overflow in the treatment region 313 in the past, suggesting that either the system is under-sizing to handle the influx during peak events, and / or that the cartridges may need maintenance. In still another example, a comparator for comparing the flow rates between different flow paths within the system, such as "co-opting the flow rates between the liquid flowing through the cartridges 120 and the liquid flowing through the Overflow conduit 300. Comparing the relative flow rates between the two routes, a determination such as the current flow capacity of the cartridges can be made, possibly suggesting that maintenance is needed when the rate differential exceeds a set criteria previously.

Yet another example provides a liquid level indicator in the cartridge lumen to compare the level of liquid within the lumen of the cartridge with the level of fluid outside the lumen of the cartridge, the differential between them suggests the amount of column loss between the outside and the inside of the cartridge that can be correlated with the degree of plugging that the cartridge or its medium is experiencing. In this example, an indicator bar has first and second ends, wherein a first end can pass through the upper end of the catchau, and the second end can reside in the lumen of the cartridge and has a float added thereto. In some embodiments, the float may also act to regulate the flow of liquid through the cartridge, and in others, the float will not act to regulate the flow of liquid through the cartridge when activated. Changes in the length of the first end of the indicator bar that protrudes above the cartridge can be correlated with the level of liquid within the cartridge. The cartridges may additionally include a vent to purge the air from inside the lumen of the cartridge, a check valve to purge the air and / or to create a vacuum within the lumen of the cartridge. The cartridges may also be open to the ambient air by means of a breather tube that extends above the liquid level within the cartridge chamber. Some embodiments of the invention may additionally include a slurry receptacle or sludge receptacles placed within the cartridge chamber to further increase the accumulated sediment capacity of the system and to simplify sediment removal. In another aspect of the invention, the system may additionally include a treatment that includes bioremediation, the use of additives such as coagulants and / or flocculants, for example, by self-feeding. In still another aspect of the invention, an anti-drip measure of the treatment region 313 is provided during peak flow events. For example, an upstream overflow diverting device, comprising an upstream valve that closes the flow diverted to the treatment region 313 when the liquid level in the treatment region 313 exceeds a certain point, eg, a further level. higher than that necessary to fully activate the downstream valve, such as a valve 230. Another aspect of the invention provides a diverter output regulator that regulates the liquid outlet of the diverter, which flows in the treatment region in connection with the flow rate of the liquid that is being routed through the overfill path of the cartridge system. For example, valve or gate valves can be activated in relation to changes in the liquid flow rate flowing in the overflow path of the system. The description set forth above may comprise one or more other inventions, with independent utility. The modalities, including the specific modalities of it as described and illustrated here, are not intended to be considered in a limiting sense, because numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements, features, functions and / or properties described herein. Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value is specifically described up to the tenth of the lowest imit unit, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limits of that range. . Each smaller range between any declared value or intervening value in a declared range, and any other declared or intervening value in that declared range, is comprised within the invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may be included or excluded independently in the range, and each range with any, none or both limits, which is included in the smaller ranges, is also comprised within the invention, Subject to any limit specifically excluded in the declared range. Where the declared range includes one or both of the limits, the ranges that exclude one or both of these included limits are also included in the invention. As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", "an", and "the", "the", "it", include plural referents, unless the contecto say something else clearly. Thus, for example, the reference to "a process" includes a plurality of these processes, and the reference to "the electrode" includes reference to one or more electrodes and their familiar equivalents for those skilled in the art, and so on. Also, the words "understand", "understanding", "includes", "include" and "including", when used in this sfication and in the appended claims, are intended to sfy the presence of features, integers, components, or declared steps, but they do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other characteristics, integers, components, steps or groups.

Claims (48)

1 . A system for removing material from a flowing liquid, the system comprises: one or more cartridges, wherein each cartridge has a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall, which form a region of media between the walls, where means are arranged within at least part of the region of means for removing at least a part of the material from the flowing liquid, said cartridge also has an inner lumen in the cartridge, in fluid communication with said permeable inner wall, and an output of the cartridge in communication fluid with the inner lumen of the cartridge; a cartridge chamber having a treatment region housing the one or more cartridges, characterized in that the cartridge chamber also includes a chamber inlet for accepting the flowing liquid, and a chamber outlet for discharging the treated liquid; and an activatable valve positioned outside the one or more cartridges, wherein the valve controls a liquid flow rate flowing within the treatment region, being activated in response to a change in a level of the liquid in the treatment region. . The system of claim 1, further characterized in that said valve is in fluid communication with the outlet of the cartridge and with the outlet of the chamber. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that said valve is activated to increase a flow of said liquid through said valve as said level of said liquid increases within said treatment region. The system of claim 3, further characterized in that said level of said liquid is maintained around a selected level within said treatment region. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges, is a plurality of cartridges in fluid communication with a manifold manifold, further characterized in that the manifold manifold is also in fluid communication with the valve. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that at least a portion of the cartridge chamber contains concrete. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the cartridge chamber comprises a floor, and the one or more cartridges are placed near the floor of the cartridge chamber. The system of claim 7, further comprising one or more supports placed between the one or more cartridges and the floor, further characterized in that the one or more supports raise the cartridge on the floor. 9. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the system includes a manifold manifold in fluid com- munication with the outlet of the cartridge and the valve. The system of claim 9, comprising a coupling for connecting the output of the cartridge to the manifold manifold. The system of claim 10, further characterized in that at least a part of the coupling is made of a flexible material. 1

2. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the valve is a gate valve. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the valve is a variable rate valve. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the means are disposed within the entire media region. 15. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the means are selected from the group consisting of compound, vermiculite, activated carbon, zeolite, perlite, ion exchange media, peat and sand. 16. The system of claim 10, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are attached by snap fit to the coupling or manifold manifold. 17. The system of claim 10, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are attached to the coupling or manifold using an unthreaded coupling. 18. The system of claim 5, further characterized in that part or all of the manifold can be removed from said chamber of cartridges. 19. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges further comprises a protruding or recessed retainer connection, and wherein the system further comprises a retainer for retaining the one or more cartridges in or approximately at a selected position within the cartridge chamber. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the system further comprises a service entrance to the cartridge chamber sized to allow entry of a person. twenty-one . The system of claim 20, further characterized in that said service entrance is located in an upper wall of said cartridge chamber, and said system further comprises a landing region below said service entrance, wherein the person, upon entering said chamber of cartridges, may occupy the landing region. 22. The system of claim 1, further characterizing in that the flowing liquid contains water. 2

3. The system of claim 22, further characterized in that the flowing liquid comprises rainwater. 2

4. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the flowing liquid is not aqueous. The system of claim 1, further characterized in that the flowing liquid contains water, and the material includes a component of material selected from the group consisting of sediment, suspended fine solids, algae, plant material, animal waste, contaminants, oil , agricultural by-products, herbicides, pesticides, garbage, detritus, leaves, heavy metals, copper, phosphates, and phosphorus. 26. A system for removing material from a flowing liquid, the system comprising: one or more cartridges, characterized in that each cartridge has a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall forming a region of media between the walls, further characterized in that means are disposed within at least part of the region of means for removing at least one pate from the material of the flowing liquid, said cartridge also having an inner lumen in the cartridge in fluid communication with said permeable inner wall, and a cartridge outlet in fluid communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge: a cartridge chamber for the one or more cartridges, characterized in that the cartridge chamber also includes an inlet to the chamber and an outlet to the chamber, and further characterized by a conduit providing fluid communication between the outlet of the chamber and the outlet of the cartridge, and the outlet of the cartridge is attached to the conduit by a non-threaded coupler; and an activatable valve positioned outside the one or more cartridges, characterized in that the valve controls a flow rate of the liquid flowing within the system, being activated in response to a change in a level of liquid in the cartridge chamber. 27. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are press fit to the conduit. 28. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are totally or partially retained by the non-threaded coupling. 29. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are supported totally or partially by means of a retainer. 30. The system of claim 29, further characterized in that the retainer comprises a retainer bar which contacts the one or more cartridges in a retaining projection or recess placed distally of the cartridge outlet. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the medium is selected from the group consisting of compost, vermiculite, activated carbon, zeolite, perlite, ion exchange media, peat and sand. 32. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges are a plurality of cartridges, and further comprises a manifold in fluid communication with each of said plurality of cartridges and the outlet of the chamber. 33. The system of claim 32, further characterized in that part or all of the manifold manifold can be removed from the cartridge chamber. 34. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the one or more cartridges further comprise a retaining projection or recess, and said system further comprises a retention bar for holding the one or more cartridges in or approximately at a selected position within. of the cartridge chamber. 3

5. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that the system comprises a service entrance to the cartridge chamber, imensed to allow entry of a person. 3

6. The system of claim 35, further characterized in that said service entrance is located in an upper wall of said cartridge chamber, and said system comprises a relion region below said service entrance, wherein the person, upon entering said chamber of cartridges, may occupy the region of relno. 3

7. The system of claim 26, further characterized in that said cartridge chamber is totally or partially made of concrete. 3

8. The system of claim 26, further characterized by the fact that said cartridge rests on the floor of said cartridge chamber. 3

9. The system of claim 38, further comprising one or more supports between said cartridge or said floor to lift said cartridge above said floor. 40. The system of claim 26, further comprising a sediment spillway having a height of the spillway, said spillway for sediments being located within said cartridge chamber adjacent to said cartridge chamber inlet, and defining an area of sedimentation, characterized in that said liquid generally flows over said spillway when said level of liquid exceeds said height of the spillway. 41 The system of claim 40, further characterized in that said sediment spillway further comprises one or more diverting ports for draining said spillway when a flow rate of said flowing liquid is low. 42. The system of claim 40, further characterized in that said sediment spillway is flanked by cartridges. 43. A method for removing a material from a flowing fluid, the method comprises flowing the liquid through a system to eliminate at least one leg of the material, and generating a liquid treated when leaving the system, where said system comprises: one or more cartridges, characterized in that each cartridge has a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall forming a region of media between the walls, further characterized in that there are means placed within at least part of the media region, in order to eliminate at least one Part of the material of the flowing liquid, said cartridge also has an inner lumen of the cartridge in fluid communication with said permeable inner wall, and an outlet of the cartridge in fluid communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge. a cartridge chamber having a treatment region housing the one or more cartridges, characterized in that the cartridge chamber also includes an inlet to the chamber to accept the flowing liquid, and an outlet of the chamber to discharge the treated liquid , further characterized in that the output of the chamber and the output of the cartridge are in fluid communication; and an activatable valve positioned outside the one or more cartridges, further characterized in that the valve controls a flow rate of the liquid flowing within the treatment region by activating in response to a change in the level of the liquor in the treatment region. 44. The method of claim 43, further characterized in that a conduit provides for fluid communication between the outlet of the chamber and the outlet of the cartridge, and the outlet of the cartridge is attached to the conduit by means of a non-threaded coupling. 45. A method for changing a cartridge in a system for removing material from a flowing liquid, the method comprises: removing the cartridge from a cartridge chamber in the system, and adding a new cartridge to the system, further characterized in that the The cartridge comprises a permeable outer wall and a permeable inner wall forming a region of means. between the walls, further characterized in that because a means is positioned within at least part of the region of means for removing at least a part of the material from the flowing liquid, said cartridge also has an inner lumen of the cartridge in fluid communication with said wall. permeable interior, and a cartridge outlet in fluid communication with the inner lumen of the cartridge, and further characterized in that the cartridge chamber comprises an inlet to the chamber and an outlet of the chamber, and further characterized in that a manifold manifold provides fluid communication between the outlet of the chamber and the outlet of the cartridge, and the outlet of the cartridge is connected to the manifold via a coupling, and further characterized in that the system also comprises a valve positioned outside the cartridge, further characterized by the valve controlling a flow rate of the liquid that flows inside the treatment region, activating in r This is due to a change in a liquid level in the treatment region. 46. The method of claim 45, further characterized in that the coupling is a non-recessed coupling. 47. The method of claim 46, further characterized in that the step of removing the cartridge from the cartridge chamber in the system and adding the new cartridge to the system comprises removing the cartridge from the non-threaded coupling, and attaching the new cartridge to the coupling. not threaded. 48. The method of claim 45, further characterized in that the output of the cartridge is separable from the manifold or coupling.