MXPA06003212A - Reduced pressure water filtration system - Google Patents

Abstract

A reduced pressure water filtration system provides for water filtration at a pressure lower than line pressure while preventing exposure of the reduced pressure water filtration system to potentially damaging static pressures such that the system and components are exposed to significantly less water pressure. The reduced pressure water filtration system can comprise a distribution module, at least one filter element, a filtered water storage module and a control unit. The filtered water storage module and the control unit may or may not be physically connected with the distribution manifold and/or filter element. A downstream side of the reduced pressure water filtration system is vented to atmosphere such that closing an inlet valve to the reduced pressure water filtration system in a non-flow mode results in any static pressure being vented.

Description

REDUCED PRESSURE WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM Field of the Invention The present description relates, in general, to the field of water filtration systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a water filtration system, such as those used in consumer residences, which is designed to operate at a pressure lower than the line pressure and which avoids exposure of the water filtration system at a possibly damaging static pressure during periods of no use. Background of the Invention Water filtration systems designed for use in the home, such as in the refrigerator and under sink systems, can be used to remove contaminants from water supplies. Due to the increase in quality and health concerns regarding municipal supplies and well water, the popularity of these filtration systems has increased markedly in recent years. For example, the inclusion of water filtration systems in refrigerators, a condition considered a luxury feature, is now included as a standard feature in all entry-level refrigerator designs. REF.171391 In general, a common residential water filtration system includes a distribution distributor configured to accept a cartridge filter specifically designed (ie, pre-packaged). Normally, the distribution distributor is adapted to connect, operationally, either directly or indirectly, with the residential water supply and points of use and could even allow a drain connection. Generally speaking, the specifically designed cartridge filter that is pre-packaged clutches in sealed form with the dispensing manifold, so that the inlet flow channel connects to the residential water supply and the cartridge filter, and at least An outlet flow channel is connected to the cartridge filter and to the points of use and / or to the drain. Common residential water filtration systems have an inlet valve on the upstream side of the filter, as well as, at least one distribution valve on the downstream side of the system. The inlet valve could be an electrically operated valve that is only open when filtered water is required or could be a manual valve that is generally left in an open position except during installation and replacement of the filter system or an individual filter element .

At least one distribution valve can be closed when the system is not in use and is opened when the filtered water is manually required by a user or when it is automatically required by another system, such as an ice maker. Through the use of the distribution valve as a flow control, water filtration systems are exposed to the pressure of the residential line to the distribution valve to provide a driving force for the filtered water of rapid distribution in base to a request. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION A representative reduced pressure water filtration system of the present disclosure provides water filtration at a pressure lower than the line pressure while exposing the reduced pressure water filtration system. at potentially harmful static pressures, so that the system and components are exposed to a significantly lower water pressure. In general, the reduced pressure water filtration system can comprise, in a presently preferred arrangement, a distribution module, at least one filter element, a filtered water storage module and a control unit. The filtered water storage module and the control unit may or may not be physically connected to the distribution distributor and / or the filter element. The distribution distributor may include a port of entry, at least one outlet port and an interconnection adapted to engage, in sealed form, at least one filter element. The delivery manifold may further comprise an inlet valve, a flow sensor and an outlet change valve. In some representative embodiments, the partition distributor may comprise multiple interconnections for the union of a plurality of filter elements, either in a flow array in series or in parallel. The different elements of the distribution distributor, such as the inlet valve, may or may not be part of a unitary structure. For example, the inlet valve can be mounted along an inlet line leading to a filter connector. In some representative embodiments, a filter element may be a sealed cartridge filter which is specifically designed, which may comprise a filter housing, internal filtering means and a filter cover adapted to engage, in sealed form, with a interconnection of the distribution distributor. The filter housing could have the shape, for example, of a cylinder or could comprise a rectangular or generally planar orientation. The internal filtering means could be any suitable means of filtering water, for example, powder media and granular activated carbon media, ceramic filtration media, polymeric powder filtration media, green manganese sand, media exchange media. ions, cross-flow filtration media, polymer barrier filtration media, mineral-based fibers, granules and powders or other suitable filter media. The filtered water storage module could take the form, for example, of a container or a removable jar. In some representative embodiments, the filtered water storage module could comprise a water level sensor and / or a proximity or positioning sensor. In an alternative embodiment, the container could have a dispensing valve adapted for manual operation through a user. In another alternative modality, the removable pot could have a handle to facilitate its removal from handling through a user. In some representative embodiments, the control unit facilitates communication between the distribution distributor and the filtered water storage module. The control unit could comprise a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), a microprocessor, an electronic logic circuit comprising switches and relays, or a block of connections. The control unit could be unique to the reduced pressure water filtration system or it could be a centralized module responsible for the control of other systems such as could be used in an "intelligent" apparatus such as a refrigerator integrated in a home network or on the Internet The control unit could communicate and / or control a variety of control elements, such as an inlet valve, a flow sensor, a change valve, a level sensor and a proximity or positioning sensor. In one embodiment of the reduced pressure water filtration system, the downstream side of the reduced pressure water filtration system is continuously vented to the atmosphere, so that the static pressure in a non-flow mode never exceeds the atmospheric pressure. The downstream side may comprise a changeover valve, which bypass the flow, selectively, through a desired distribution circuit, for example, to a storage container, a filtered tap or spigot, a make-up machine. ice and combinations thereof. In a non-flow mode, an inlet valve can close to prevent inlet flow to the reduced pressure water filtration system, while any static pressure within the reduced pressure water filtration system is vented. In another embodiment of a reduced pressure water filtration system, the system provides an increase in the prevention of a fault induced by freezing. Because the storage of filtered water is downstream of the filter, the components, for example, the distribution distributor and at least one filter element, can be physically located outside the refrigerated areas, so that these elements Do not be exposed to freezing temperatures. Also, as will be described in detail below, the reduced pressure water filtration system may favor the low volume water flow in progress, so that the formation of ice crystals is discouraged, although flow obstructions may exist. The components have also increased the chances of survival to freezing since they are never exposed to a high pressure environment. In this environment of reduced pressure, the components remain in a relatively unexpanded state and not subjected to loading, allowing a larger amount of expansion, when compared to a high pressure system, due to the occurrence of a freezing condition. In some representative embodiments, the components comprising the reduced pressure water filtration system may require a lower heavy duty construction, for example, reduced wall thicknesses, resulting in reduced material costs since the possibility of exposure to freeze loads induced and / or the charges from a higher water pressure can be significantly reduced. By incorporating design elements resistant to freezing, the reduced pressure water filtration systems of the present invention can be structurally safer than existing systems since there is a reduced danger of explosion. In yet another embodiment of the reduced pressure water filtration system, the system can provide a relatively large volume of cooled and filtered water immediately available. In one embodiment, the reduced pressure water filtration system comprises a large volume container, such as a removable jar, mounted within a refrigerated chamber, so that the volume of water filtered in the container is continuously cooled when be mounted in the refrigerated chamber. In the case of a removable pitcher, the pitcher can be removed for use, so that a user can pour individual glasses of water or for use in cooking or other domestic uses. An additional advantage of the removable pitcher is an opportunity to routinely clean and sanitize the pitcher. In another embodiment, the container comprises a large volume water container comprising a distribution valve, so that the user can have access to the refrigerated and filtered water of the container based on demand. In still another embodiment, a reduced pressure water filtration system may comprise a pump for increasing the pressure and facilitating the supply of filtered water within a water distribution circuit. In another aspect of the present disclosure, a reduced pressure water filtration system provides design flexibility by considering the filtration methodologies based on the user's preferences or the quality of the source water filter. For example, by low pressure operation and consequently, at a low flow rate, the filtered water quality can be increased due to the increase in contact time and reduced channeling within the filter media. In an example of a system using a plurality of filter elements, a pre-filter, such as activated carbon or green sand, can pretreat the source water, a second element using reverse osmosis means can remove the dissolved solids and a polishing element can remove the remaining ionic contaminants, organic and / or biological. In another embodiment, multiple filter elements can be used in parallel to increase the filtering rate of the reduced pressure water filtration system. In another example, a reduced pressure water filtration system can provide a high filtration rate in line pressure while avoiding the possibility of high static pressures in non-flowing conditions by continuously exposing the outlet to the atmosphere. The above summary of the various aspects of the present disclosure is not intended to describe in detail each illustrated embodiment or the details or each implementation of the present disclosure. The figures in the detailed description that follow exemplify, in a more particular way, these representative modalities. These, as well as other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more fully understood and appreciated with reference to the following more detailed description of the representative embodiments described of the present description in conjunction with the accompanying figures. Brief Description of the Figures Figure 1 is a schematic view of a representative embodiment of a reduced pressure water filtration system. Figure 2 is a schematic view of another representative embodiment of a reduced pressure water filtration system. Figure 3 is a sectional view of a representative installation of the reduced pressure water filtration system of Figure 1 in an apparatus. Figure 4 is a partial sectional view of another representative installation of the reduced pressure water filtration system of Figure 1 in an apparatus. Detailed Description of the Invention A reduced pressure water filtration system for use in conjunction with an apparatus, such as a water cooler or distributor, may generally comprise a distribution manifold, at least one filter element, a storage module and a control unit. In some • Representative modes, the distribution distributor, at least one filter element and, optionally, the control unit, can be physically located outside the refrigerated chamber to limit the exposure of the system to freezing conditions or to save interior space. The distribution distributor can be adapted for use with a plurality of filter elements, installed in series or in parallel, allowing flexibility with respect to the total quality of the filtration, as well as the filtering capacity. The reduced pressure water filtration system can offer a number of advantages, for example, a freeze-resistant design, an increase in filtration versatility and a large volume of filtered and cooled water based on demand. By design, the system works, generally, at lower pressures, the filter can be correspondingly designed with a thinner wall or with less expensive materials, so that material costs can be significantly reduced. As shown in Figure 1, one embodiment of a reduced pressure water filtration system 100 comprises a partition distributor 102, a plurality of filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c, a storage container 106 and a control module. 108. As shown, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 has an inlet water source 110 and a pair of filtered water outlets 112a, 112b. In some representative embodiments, the partition distributor 102, the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c and the control unit 108 are physically located on the outside of a refrigerated chamber while the storage container 106 resides within the refrigerated chamber. . The filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c are shown connected in series, so that the output of one valve is the input of the next valve in the series. Meanwhile, three filter elements connected in series are shown, a large number or a smaller number, such as two, can be used as desired. The partition distributor 102 comprises an input connection 114 and a pair of output connections 116a, 116b. An inlet valve 118 can be located in proximity to the inlet connection 11. The inlet valve 118 may comprise a separate component mounted upstream of the partition distributor 102 or may comprise an integral component in the partition distributor. The inlet valve 118 may comprise a valve-operated assembly which is operatively connected to the control module 108. The inlet valve 118 may be operated, for example, in electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic form in the direction of the module. control 108. The inlet valve 118 may comprise any suitable flow valve, such as a solenoid valve, a ball valve, a diaphragm valve, a gate valve, a needle valve and the like. The inlet valve 118 can include an orifice, such as a clogged flow orifice or a deformable hole, in order to reduce or decrease the water inlet pressure below a maximum predetermined pressure, so that the operation of the 100 water filtration happen below the maximum predetermined pressure. In another alternative embodiment, the inlet valve 118 may comprise a pressure regulating valve for lowering or reducing the water inlet pressure. Examples of suitable pressure regulation or pressure reduction valves include pressure regulation valves that are manufactured by Honeywell International Inc., of Morris Township, New Jersey, and of George Fisher Ltd., of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. The inlet valve 118 can be configured to throttle or decrease the water inlet pressure to thereby provide a dynamic filter pressure of approximately 10 to 120 psig. The distribution distributor 102 is additionally adapted to engage, in sealed form, with the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c in a filter connection 120a, 120b and 120c. The partition distributor 102 comprises an internal flow channel 122, which fluidly connects the filter connections 120a, 120b and 120c in series. The parting distributor 102 may comprise a flow sensor 124 mounted within the internal flow channel 122 and electrically connected to the control unit 108. The parting distributor "102 may also comprise a two position change valve 126 just before the output connections 116a, 116b and electrically connected to the control unit 108 to direct the flow, selectively, between two or more alternative output connections.Alternately, the partition distributor 102 may include a outlet valve mounted in proximity at each of the outlet connections 116a, 116b, wherein at least one of the outlet valves is always in an open position.The filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c may comprise filter elements previously assembled and the corresponding filter connections for a sealed clutch, for example, through the rotary or linear interconnection with the distributed Delivery R 102. Examples of suitable filter elements and connections for use in rotary sealing clutch are described in U.S. Patent Applications Nos. 09 / 618,686, 09 / 918,316, 10 / 196,340, 10 / 202,290 and 10 / 406,637, while the elements and connections for the sliding clutch are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 210,890, each of the foregoing applications is incorporated by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure. The filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c may comprise any of the suitable water filtration means such as powder media and granular activated carbon media, ceramic filtration media, polymeric powder filtration media, green manganese sand, ion exchange media, cross-flow filtration media, polymer barrier filtration media, mineral-based fibers, granules and powders or other suitable filter media. For purposes of the description of an example of the use and function of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 that is illustrated in Figure 1, the filter element 104a may include a meltblown polypropylene prefilter, the filter element 104b it may comprise an activated carbon filter and the filter element 104c may comprise a deionization filter having a suitable mixture of anionic and cationic exchange resins. The filter dispenser 102 may include features that allow the removal and replacement of the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c, so that the water leakage is substantially reduced or eliminated during the maintenance of the water filtration system 100. For example, the filter dispenser 102 may include a spring valve mounted within the inflow in each filter element 104a, 104b, 104c. The spring valve allows the flow, selectively, when a filter element is connected to the filter distributor 102 and prevents flow when a filter element is not connected to the filter distributor. Examples of suitable flow arrangements and clutch mechanisms using spring valves are explained and described within the applications previously incorporated by reference. In another alternative arrangement, the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c may include a self-disengaging mechanism, whereby, the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c are disengaged with respect to the partition distributor 102 at pressures by above a desired maximum dynamic filtration pressure. For example, arrangements using a rotating sealing clutch to join the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c with the partition distributor 102, for example, through the interaction of angled ramps, circumferential ramps and tabs, can include frictional clutch members on the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c and the partition distributor 102, so that the filter elements disengage in a rotating manner, or move backwards, from the partition distributor 102 above a desired maximum dynamic filtration pressure, for example, as described in the United States Patent Application. No. 10 / 202,290 filed July 24, 2002 and entitled "HOT DISCONNECT REPLACEABLE WATER FILTER ASSEMBLY" the foregoing application is incorporated by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure. The frictional clutch members may include variations, such as a protrusion on the ramp of the filter element and a notch or piece of earth on the distributor manifold ramp where the protrusion and the piece of earth are frictionally clutched when the The filter element and the distributor are connected. The amount of frictional clutch can be controlled, so that the dynamic filtering pressures above a desired maximum exceed this frictional clutch, so that the filter element disengages in a rotating manner from the distribution manifold, where the spring valve mentioned above can be closed to prevent escape, preventing exposure of the filter elements at pressures above the maximum desired dynamic pressure. In arrangements in which the water filtration system 100 comprises at least one filter element designed for cross-flow filtration, for example, the filter element 104b that includes membrane filtration media for microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration or the reverse osmosis filtration, the filter element 104b and the partition distributor 102 can be configured to interconnect and form permeable channels and flow concentrates as described in the Application United States Patent No. 10 / 838,140 filed on 03 -tde-Mayr-del "2004 y ^ titled" CROSSFLOW FILTRATION SYSTEM WITH QUICK DRY CHANGE ELEMENTS ", which is incorporated herein by reference to the extent not inconsistent with the present disclosure The storage container 106 may comprise any suitable water tank configuration, such as a container or a length of pipe capable to act as a heat exchanger As illustrated in Figure 1, the storage container 106 is represented in the form of a removable pitcher 128 mounted within a support structure 130. The removable pitcher 128 may have, for example, an open upper part 129, a handle 132 and an outlet port 134, although other configurations are also contemplated The pitcher 128 can be manufactured from a transparent or translucent polymeric material in order to provide the user with a visible indication of the amount of water The removable pitcher 128 could have marks indicating the volume of water present within the In some embodiments, the storage container 106 could have a filtered water capacity of 1.89-3.79 liters (0.5-1.0 gallons). The support structure 130 comprises a floor 136 and a perimeter wall 138. The floor 136 includes a distribution port 140 adapted to interconnect with a check valve 142 integrally mounted within the exit port 134. The support structure 130 furthermore it comprises a level sensor 144 and a proximity sensor 146, both adapted to interconnect with the pitcher 128 and connected, electrically, to the control unit 108. The level sensor 144 can comprise any suitable level sensor with the capacity of communicating the water level in the storage vessel 106 to the control unit 108 such as a float switch, a pressure transducer, an ultrasonic level sensor, an optical sensor or a capacitance measuring switch. The control unit 108 could comprise a microprocessor, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an electronic logic circuit comprising switches and relays and / or a plurality of contacts in a terminal block. In general, the inlet valve 118, the flow sensor 124, the change valve 126, the level sensor 144 and the proximity sensor 146 are connected in communicating manner with the control unit 108, which could be located in one position or could have components in several positions. Based on the inputs received from the flow sensor 124, the level sensor 144, the proximity sensor 146 and any other inputs associated with or external to the reduced pressure water filtration system 100, the control unit 108 regulates the operation of the inlet valve 118. The control unit 108 could be a single component of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 or it could be an apparatus control unit that regulates multiple systems. When fully assembled, the length of the inlet pipe 148 can fluidly connect the inlet water source 110 with the inlet connection 114, the length of the outlet pipe 150a can fluidly connect the filtered water outlet 112a with top open 129, the length of outlet pipe 150b can fluidly connect the filtered water outlet 112b with an alternate point of use, for example, an automatic ice maker, and the length of the supply pipe 152 can fluidly connect the distribution port 140 with a tap or other point of use.

As shown in Figure 2, one embodiment of a reduced pressure water filtration system 200 comprises a partition distributor 202, a plurality of filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c, a storage container 206 and a control module. 208. How it is represented, the reduced pressure water filtration system 200 has a water inlet source 210 and a filtered water outlet 212. The parting distributor 202, the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c and the control module 208 can be physically located on the outside of a refrigerated chamber, while the storage container 206 resides within a refrigerated chamber. The distribution distributor 202 comprises an inlet connection 214 and an outlet connection 216. Located on the inlet connection 214 is an inlet valve 218 wired to the control unit 208. The distribution distributor 202 is additionally adapted to engage , in sealed form, with the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c in a filter connection 220a, 220b, 220c. The filter connection 220a, 220b, 220c may take the form of a single connection point or an entry and exit point as shown. The distribution distributor 202 comprises an internal supply flow channel 222 and an internal distribution flow channel 223 which fluidly couples the filter connections 220a, 220b, 220c in parallel, so that the filtration capacity is increased by the flow of water through a plurality of filters. Although the system is represented with three filter elements, a larger number or a smaller number, such as two, of filter elements may be used. In addition, a combination of series and parallel filter elements can be used, such as two pairs of filter elements with each pair of elements connected in series and the pairs that are connected in parallel with each other. The filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c may comprise preassembled filter elements such as those described above, although other suitable filter elements may also be used. The filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c may be adapted to engage, in sealed form, with the filter connections 220a, 220b, 220c either in a rotating or sliding manner as described above. Filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c may comprise any type of water filtration means, such as manganese green sand, activated carbon, reverse osmosis membranes or ion exchange resin. For purposes of description, the use and function of the reduced pressure water filtration system 200, the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c include activated carbon media. The storage container 206 is once again represented in the form of a removable jar 228 mounted within a support structure 230, although any suitable container configuration could be used. The removable jar 228 comprises, for example, an open top 229, a handle 232 and an outlet port 234. The jar 228 can be manufactured from a transparent or translucent polymeric material in order to provide the user with a visible indication of the amount of water present. The removable jar 228 may comprise marks indicating the volume of water present within the jar 228. The support structure 230 comprises a floor 236 and a perimeter wall 238. The floor 236 includes a distribution port 240 adapted to be interconnected with a valve retainer 242 which is assembled, integrally, within the outlet port 234. The support structure 230 further comprises a level sensor 244 and a proximity sensor 246, both are adapted to interconnect with the pitcher 228 and are connected in a electrical with the control unit 208. The control unit 208 could comprise a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), a microprocessor, an electronic logic circuit comprising switches and relays, and / or a plurality of contacts in a connection block. In general, the inlet valve 218, -the level sensor 244 and the proximity sensor 246 are connected, in electrical form, with the control unit 208.

Based on the inputs received from the level sensor 244, the proximity sensor 246 and any of the other associated or external inputs with the reduced pressure water filtration system 200, the control unit 208 can regulate the operation of the inlet valve 218. The control unit 208 could be a single component of the reduced pressure water filtration system 200 or could comprise a controller used to regulate multiple systems. When fully assembled, the length of the inlet pipe 248 can fluidly connect the inlet water source 210 with the inlet connection 214, ~ the log of the outlet pipe 250 can run from the filtered water outlet 212 to the open top 229 and the length of the supply pipe 252 can run from the distribution port 240 to a tap or other point of use. In use, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 filters the inlet water source 110 and distributes the filtered water through the filtered water outlets 112a, 112b. The inlet water source 110 flows through the inlet pipe 148, the inlet connection 114, through the inlet valve 118 and in the direction of the partition distributor 102. In a representative embodiment, the inlet valve 118 it could comprise an orifice or other restriction, so that the pressure of the inlet water source 110 is reduced, significantly, before entering the partition distributor 102. The inlet valve 118 can be used to reduce the speed from the inflow, for example, from 1.89 liters (0.5 gallons) per minute (gpm) to 1.89 liters (0.5 gallons) per hour (gph) of water flow, so that the contact time within the elements is increased of filter 104a, 104b, 104c. The increase in contact time with the filter media can have advantages including, for example, high filtering or contaminant removal efficiencies with a reduced volume of media when compared to high speed flow designs. Within the partition distributor 102, the water to be filtered is directed in series through the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c by means of internal flow channels 122. In some representative embodiments described above, the filter element 104a can remove particles, filter element 104b can remove chlorine materials and dissolved organic materials, and filter element 104c removes dissolved ionic impurities. In some representative embodiments, the filter element 104c may comprise a flavor cartridge designed to transmit certain desirable minerals and / or flavors to improve the taste of the filtered water. As the water travels through the internal flow channel 122, the flow sensor 124 transmits the flow rates to the control unit 108. When the filtered water leaves the filter element l04c, the water is directed through, since either of the filtered water outlet 112a or 112b depending on the position of the shift valve 126. The shift valve 126 can be located based on a signal coming from the control unit 108, possibly based on an input external demand. When the filtered water is directed through the filtered water outlet 112a, the water moves out of the outlet connection 116a, in the direction of the outlet pipe 150a where it flows subsequently through the upper part open 129 and in the direction of the removable jar 128. When the filtered water is directed through the filtered water outlet 112b, the water flow leaves the outlet connection 116b, is directed towards the outlet pipe 150b where it moves towards a point of use such as an automatic ice maker. When desired, the user can have access to filtered water in a variety of ways, which may be different for different representative modes. First, the user can have access to water through a tap or spigot, for example, in the refrigerator door, by means of which the filtered water flows through the outlet port 134, then passes through the valve retention 142 and finally directed through the supply pipe 152 to a point of use. Alternatively, the user can grasp the handle 132 and can carry the removable jar 128 to the point where the filtered water will be used. When the removable jar 128 is removed from the support structure 130, the check valve 142 prevents leakage or leakage of water from the outlet port 134. At the same time, the proximity sensor 146 sends a signal to the control module 108. , so that the filtered water is not directed through the outlet pipe 150a while the removable pitcher 128 is not present. The control unit 108 may comprise a logic circuit for the operation of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 Based on the demand input from the level sensor 144 or at the request for an alternative point of use, such as a spigot or tap mounted on the door or an ice maker, the control unit 108 opens the inlet valve 118 and locates the change valve 126, so that the filtered water is directed towards the appropriate destination. If the filtered water was being directed towards the removable pitcher 128, the control unit 108 could stop the water filtering based on a high level indication of the level sensor 144 or if the removable pitcher 128 had been moved, based on a signal from the proximity sensor 146. The control unit 108 could continuously monitor and track the volumetric flow information supplied by the flow sensor 124 for the purpose of determining the desired timing for the replacement of the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c. Regardless of the operation status of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100, either in a flow mode or in a non-flow mode, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 remains vented to the atmosphere through any of filtered water outlets 112a, 112b. As such, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 never experiences a line pressure condition. Further, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 never experiences a static pressure condition during the non-flow condition, wherein the components downstream of the inlet valve 118 experience a pressure above atmospheric pressure. During a dynamic pressure condition or a flow condition, the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 experiences a common pressure drop across the entire system based on the design of the inlet valve 118. The flow paths to through the distribution distributor 102, the selected means and the potential incrustation or sealing of the filter elements 104a, 104b, 104c and the flow paths to the different points of use. By effectively eliminating the possibility of a static pressure condition, the line pressure conditions that are potentially approaching, within the reduced pressure water filtration system 100, the components of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 can be designed for a lower pressure operating condition, and the life of the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 can be extended. The representative configurations of the installation for the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 are illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. The reduced pressure water filtration system 100 can be integrally mounted and included with an apparatus such as a refrigerator 300. Refrigerator 300 comprises a refrigerated portion 302 and a freezing portion 304. As shown in Figure 3, the partition distributor 102 and the filter elements such as the filter element 104a can be mounted on an exterior wall 306 of the refrigerator 300. In an alternative arrangement shown in Figure 4, the partition distributor 102 and the element of filtration 104a can be mounted, operatively, on an interior wall 308 within the refrigerated portion 302. Without considering the mounting orientations shown in Figures 3 and 4, the filtered water can be directed from the partition distributor 102. and through the outlet pipe 150a in the direction of the storage vessel 106 or through the outlet pipe 150b and in the direction of an ice maker 310. The reduced pressure water filtration system 200 of the present invention operates in similar to the reduced pressure water filtration system 100 with a primary difference, which is that the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c s They are in a parallel operation that is opposite to the series operation as described above. Through the parallel operation, the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c simultaneously filter the water, so that the total flow capacity of the reduced pressure water filtration system 200 is increased. Thus, the Total flow capacity for the reduced pressure water filtration system 200 can be increased while providing the benefits of increased contact time within each of the filter elements 204a, 204b, 204c. While the systems shown in Figures 1 and 2 do not have a valve downstream of the filters that can close atmospheric pressure, a downstream valve can be included in the system. This downstream valve can be a manual valve, such as a ball valve or an automatic valve such as those valves described above. A manual valve can be closed during boarding or other time of inactivity or maintenance. However, a manual valve must be opened before use. Similarly, an automatic valve must be opened each time the inlet valve is opened, so that the filters are never exposed to line pressure in a static flow environment. In this way, the systems are designed, so that the filters only observe the line pressure according to a dynamic flow environment at pressures somewhat lower than the static line pressures. Current pressures in the filters are a function of the flow rates through the filters and the output portions of the system. However, when the filters are not subjected to static line pressure, the pressure environment of the filters is significantly moderate in relation to the other designs, so that the design parameters of the filters can be relaxed, correspondingly . Although several representative embodiments of the present invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, it is to be understood that a variety of changes, modifications and substitutions could be incorporated without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. It is noted that in relation to this date the best method known by the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (21)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1. A water filtration system of reduced pressure, characterized in that it comprises: an inlet valve; a control unit connected, operatively, with the inlet valve, the control unit selectively opens and closes the inlet valve based on an inlet to the control unit; a distributor having an inlet, a flow channel and an outlet, the flow channel includes at least one filter connection; and at least one cartridge filter is constituted by a housing, enclosed filtering means and a filter connector, wherein the filter connector engages, in sealed form, with the filter connection to define a fluid circuit that connects in a flow the entrance with the exit, where the inlet valve is configured to control the flow towards the exit, and where the exit is open to the atmosphere in operating modes, when the inlet valve is open.
2. 2. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the flow channel comprises at least two filter connections fluidly coupled with at least two cartridge filters.
3. 3. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 2, characterized in that the flow channel directs the supply flow through at least two cartridge filters in a series flow configuration.
4. 4. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 2, characterized in that the flow channel directs the supply flow through at least two cartridge filters in a parallel flow configuration.
5. 5. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the inlet valve comprises a flow orifice for the reduction of the pressure and the delivery speed.
6. 6. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one cartridge filter is adapted for its rotating interconnection with the filter connector.
7. 7. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the system input comprises a manual or automated input.
8. 8. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet comprises a change valve operatively connected to the control unit, the change valve defines at least two outlet flow paths wherein at least one of the exit routes is open to the atmosphere and wherein the control unit selectively directs the flow of filtered water through the outflow routes.
9. 9. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet is connected fluidly to an upper portion of a storage container, the storage container comprises a storage volume that stores the water filtered and a distribution circuit that selectively supplies the filtered water, the storage container further includes a level sensor operatively connected to the control unit, so that the inlet valve opens and closes, so selective, based on the level of the container.
10. 10. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 8, characterized in that the storage container comprises a proximity sensor operably connected to the control unit, so that the control unit prevents the flow of Water to the storage container if the storage container is removably removed from the reduced pressure water filtration system.
11. 11. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 9, characterized in that the storage container comprises a removable pitcher.
12. 12. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet is fluidly connected to an ice maker.
13. 13. The reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1, characterized in that the enclosed filtering means comprise powder media and granular media of activated carbon, ceramic filtration media, polymeric dust filtration media, sand manganese green, ion exchange media, cross-flow filtration media, media or polymer barrier filtration, mineral-based fibers, granules and powders.
14. The apparatus, characterized in that it comprises a cooling compartment and the reduced pressure water filtration system according to claim 1.
15. 15. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that at least one cartridge filter is mounted on the outside of the cooling compartment.
16. 16. A method of removing a static pressure condition within a flow channel of a water filtration system, characterized in that it comprises: ventilating a downstream side of the water filtration system into the atmosphere, so that the pressure of the flow of water within the flow channel is dissipated based on the closing of the upstream supply valve through a control unit, the control unit positions the upstream supply valve in a flow configuration or in a configuration no flow in relation to the inlet and outlet of the flow channel based on an input to the control unit.
17. The method according to claim 16, characterized in that the ventilation of the downstream side of the water filtration system comprises selectively positioning a downstream change valve to direct the flow of water through a water circulation circuit. distribution based on demand input.
18. 18. The method according to claim 17, further characterized by comprising: directing the flow of water through the distribution circuit to a removable pitcher, so that the removable pitcher is filled with filtered water to a desired level of storage .
19. 19. The method according to claim 18, further characterized by comprising: distributing the filtered water in the removable pitcher by separating the removable pitcher from the distribution circuit and pouring the filtered water from the removable pitcher.
20. 20. A reduced pressure water filtration system, characterized in that it comprises: a pressure reduction inlet valve; a distributor having an inlet, a flow channel and an outlet, the flow channel includes at least one filter connection; at least one cartridge filter is constituted by a housing, enclosed filtering means and a filter connector; and a storage container connected fluidly to the outlet; wherein the filter connector engages in sealed form with the filter connection to define a fluid circuit that fluidly connects the inlet to the outlet, wherein the pressure reduction inlet valve is configured to control the flow to the inlet , where the outlet is open to the atmosphere in operating modes when the inlet valve is open, and where the pressure reduction inlet valve maintains a filtrate pressure below the pressure upstream of the valve Input pressure reduction.
21. 21. An apparatus includes a cooling compartment and a water filtration system, characterized in that the water filtration system comprises: a distributor having an inlet, a flow channel and an outlet, the flow channel includes at least one filter connection; at least one cartridge filter is constituted by a housing, enclosed filtering means and a filter connector; a flow control valve operatively connected to the distributor to regulate the flow through the distributor; and a removable fluid container fluidly connected to the outlet and in thermal contact with the cooling compartment; wherein the filter connector engages in sealed form with the filter connection to define a fluid circuit that fluidly connects the inlet and the outlet, and wherein the distributor is fixedly attached to the apparatus.