MXPA06010392A - Single-use long-life faucet-mounted water filtration devices - Google Patents

Abstract

Single-use long-life faucet mounted water filtration devices are disclosed. A bathroom water filtration device having two outlets for filtered water is disclosed. A rotatable fountain head adjustable in three axes is included for use in the bathroom water filtration device. Press control of the water expelled from the fountain head is controlled by a valve arrangement which dividesthe flow between the two filtered water outlets. The water filtration device is of unibody construction formed by ultrasonically welding certain parts thereof together. The filter housing end cap includes stops to insure that the filter assembly does not rotate. Since the devices disclosed are disposable, no filter replacement or other maintenance is performed. A gate, magnet(s), sensor and electronics provide an indication of filter performance enabling disposal of the water filtration device and installation of a new device. A kitchen water filtration device is larger than the bathroom device. Both the kitchen and bathroom water filtration devices are small and are mounted behind the faucet connection so as to facilitate full utilization of the sink or wash basin

Description

WATER FILTRATION DEVICES MOUNTED IN THE LONG-LIFE WATER WRENCH AND UNIQUE USE This patent application is a continuation in part of the pending patent application of the United States of America series number 10 / 883,156 filed July 1, 2004 which is a continuation in part of the United States patent application. of America series No. 10 / 613,950 filed on July 3, 2003, the present application claims the priority of the United States of America patent application series No. 10 / 883,156, 10 / 613,950 and of the provisional patent application of the United States of America series No. 60 / 624,341 filed on November 2, 2004.

Field of the Invention The field of the invention is that of water filtration devices.

Background of the Invention The demand for pure water continues to grow rapidly due to increased concerns about the quality and safety of tap water, the popularity of water as a beverage (instead of soda and alcohol) and the growing awareness that most of people do not drink enough water as prescribed by the medical community.

Water is supplied from municipal water systems (many of which are aging) private water systems as well as wells in the United States of America. Frequently, this water has a poor taste, has particles, unwanted odors and in many cases contaminants contained in it. Municipal water is commonly treated with chlorine to eliminate bacterial contaminants. Chlorine increases what most people feel is an unpleasant smell and taste. Water conditions vary greatly according to the geographical area and therefore travelers may experience these problems when they visit a hotel and motel rooms around the country. It is desired to remove bad flavors, odors, sediments and contaminants before ingesting water or using it to cook food.

Water treatment devices of various varieties have proven to be effective in achieving water purification. Generally these devices work through chemical and mechanical actions that remove contaminants and impurities from the water. These filters have a finite life. The sediment can eventually clog a filter and the chemical reactions carried out through adsorption (carbon media) and ion exchange (cation resin) have a limited capacity.

U.S. Patent No. 5,989,425 to Yonezawa et al., Discloses a multi-way valve and a water purifier. The multi-way valve is described as a small-sized valve which can be used with a small-sized water purifier. The device described in U.S. Patent No. 5,989,425 is a filter mounted on a water tap and is designed to remove and exchange the valve bodies.

U.S. Patent No. 5,017,286 to Heiligman and U.S. Reissue No. 35667 to Heiligman describe a vertical filter enclosed in a box and the box is supported by a duct. The vertical filter can be permanently secured to the filter by a hot melted adhesive which makes the filter non-removable. In addition, the vertical filter can be pre-wrapped with a porous paper pre-filter. The device described in United States of America No. 5,017,286 is a filter mounted on the water tap. If the filter is attached to the filter box, said filter box must be removed and discarded together with the filter. A new filter box (and filter) should be mounted on the diverter valve duct each time the filter box is replaced. This involves a time consuming task in the case of each incorporation described in the patent 5, 017,286. In an embodiment of the patent 5,017,286, the filter box is secured by a retaining clip. In another embodiment described in the patent 5,017,286, the male duct of the filter housing is adjusted with pressure in an opening in the diverter valve. Alternatively, the male duct of the filter housing can be attached to the diverter valve by a bolt, a U-shaped fastener or the like. The filter box is described in the patent 5,017,286 as residing vertically in front of the faucet or tap. In short, it is not a simple matter to change the filter housing of the device described in said patent 5,017,286.

U.S. Patent No. 5,527,451 to Hembree et al. Describes a filter mounted on a water tap that uses a replacement filter cartridge. The replacement filter cartridge resides within a larger rotating box which channels the flow of water either into the filter or through the diverter valve assembly. Hembree et al. Also describes a very complicated flow totalization mechanism which includes carrying water to a turbine driven mechanism before filtering it.

The patent of the United States of America No. 6,571,960 B2 issued to Illiamson et al. Describes a water filtration device mounted on the water tap whose filter box includes a valve there and whose filter housing extends longitudinally backward from the point of attachment to the tap. The filters in the Williamson patent and others are replaceable filter cartridges.

US Pat. No. 6,284,129 Bl issued to Giordano et al. Discloses a rotating magnetized propellant acting on a can fire switch.

The patent of the United States of America No. ,993,648 issued to Hunter et al. Describes a water filtration device which includes a source. In addition, the patent 5,993,648 discloses a water filtration device having an internal flow configuration so that water can be made to flow from one of a first outlet or a second outlet by the selective actuation of a gate valve as long one lane. The filter used in the '599 patent is a replaceable filter. See the patent 5,993,648 column 2, lines 38-40. The gate valve is spring loaded which normally places the gate valve for selective discharge from the first outlet. The water left by the second outlet is discharged in an essentially upward direction with some vector on the left side, for example discharging to the left at an angle that deviates 10 to 60 degrees from the vertical. See the patent 5,993,648 column 3, lines 18-30.

In each of the above descriptions, the devices described herein are designed to disassemble in some way as a maintenance material of the filtering device. This requires work and attention time. The flow totalization mechanisms such as that described by Hembree in the 5,527,451 patent presents maintenance problems. The need to change the filter and / or the filter box and / or the diverter valve all require labor and attention time.

In each of the above descriptions, the devices described herein are designed to disassemble in some way as a way of maintaining the filtering device. Filtration devices commonly employ replaceable filter cartridges of some kind. These arrangements require either a coupling arrangement to hold and detach a replacement filter cartridge or a larger chamber to entirely enclose the replacement filter cartridge. Both approaches require additional components and materials that increase the cost of manufacturing and the complexity of the device. In addition, each of the descriptions prior to requiring the replacement of the filter element causes a great inconvenience to the user by having it search and procure the replacement filter elements at a considerable cost. This arrangement, even though it is lucrative for the manufacturer, is a very documented problem for the consumer. In addition, most devices in the related art, due to their need for easy access and maintenance are relatively large and obstructive partially blocked the sink container. Finally, the devices noted above and most others despite the availability of high capacity filter media are not designed for a long life to maximize the frequency with which users must purchase the filter replacement elements.

It is therefore desirable to have a water filtration device mounted on the tap that is small which is a long life, single use water filtration device which includes an indicator of the performance of the filter. By using only it means that it is discarded when its performance indicator reveals that the effectiveness of the filter has decreased. It is also desirable to have the filter housing of the water filtration device mounted behind the water tap connection to allow full access to the sink stack under the water tap.

Water pressure in homes, commercial establishments and public buildings varies a lot. The variation in pressure is a problem for drinking water sources where the user drinks water directly from the source without the use of a container such as a cup or a glass. If the pressure in the water source is too high, the water is then expelled with a speed, trajectory and an amount that is too large resulting in the spill on the clothing, on the user's face or on the floor. Variations in pressure can occur due to the water pressures of the city which are not adequately controlled. In residential well water systems variations in pressures may occur due to the operation of the system in the well pump curve due to the use of low flow. Additional pressure problems can be caused by water pressure regulators which are improperly placed or in need of repair. It is desirable, therefore, to provide a water filtration device which expels the filtered water from a source head in a usable path and amount. It is desirable to control the water pressure within a water filtration device so that it expels the filtered water from a source head in a usable quantity path. It is further desired to adjust the water flow from a source head in a path usable in three axial directions.

Synthesis of the Invention A water filtration device mounted on the single-use tap is provided. The device is single-body construction and has no removable or replaceable parts but provides a long-life operation. This arrangement makes the device more convenient to be used in comparison with other devices that require frequent replacement of the filter cartridges. The device is built with a minimum of components making it relatively small in size and less expensive to manufacture. Even though it is compact, the device is able to contain enough filter media to allow a long operating life. The life of the water filtration device will depend on the type of filter medium used, the size and geometry of the filter medium and the size and geometry of the water flow paths. For example, water filtration devices having a useful life of 300 gallons or more can be made using the teachings of the present invention. Water filtration devices having useful lives of less than 300 gallons can also be made using the teachings of the present invention. Performance indications as an integrated flow function are indicated by a light emitting diode.

The main case of the device resides under the neck of the faucet and back of the water discharge point, thus not obstructing the sink's sink. A single-use device is provided for use in a kitchen sink and a device is provided for use in a bathroom sink or sink. Unlike devices in the related art the incorporation of single use water tap filter bathroom is scaled to a small size of bathroom sinks and therefore practical for use in the bathroom. The bathroom filter device allows residential users to have the benefit of filtered water in close proximity to the bedroom avoiding the inconvenience of having to go to the kitchen sink for water during the night. further, because the bathroom device is small and disposable, it can be taken with a traveler and installed in a hotel or motel room. In addition, as travelers easily establish the differences between water and its flavors from one place to another it is highly desirable that the water filter be portable.

The invention includes a front box that can be connected to a water tap and a filter box having an inlet and an outlet. An end cap of the filter box completes the filter box. The front box is not removably attached to the filter box and the water filter is not contained removably inside the water filter box. The water filter box includes a camera in communication with the water filter. The filter is preferably activated carbon and includes a pre-wrapping filter. Other filter media can be used. The output resides in the camera.

Alternatively, a second outlet may also reside in the chamber in the incorporation of the bathroom filter.

The single-use water filtration device is small. The incorporation designed for the bathroom has a filter diameter of less than or equal to 1.6 inches. The incorporation designed for the use of the kitchen has a filter diameter of less than or equal to 2.2 inches. The water filtration devices described herein, namely the bathroom and kitchen additions, reside essentially backward with respect to the water tap. Other diameters and sizes of the water filtration devices described herein can be made using the teachings of the present invention.

The filter includes ends thereof each secured to an end cap. End caps have peripheral seal portions which seal against the inside of the filter housing.

A box end cap is ultrasonically welded to the filter housing. Other welding methods such as microwave, radio frequency (RF), heat welding and induction can be used to weld several together parts of the water filtration devices described herein.

The second outlet includes a valve seat and a valve interposed in the filter housing that is operated against the valve seat of the second outlet to control the flow out of the second outlet. The valve includes a plunger having a foot and an elastomeric ball valve or boot that resides on the foot. The foot of the plunger and the elastomeric ball valve reside inside the box. A handle is pivotally connected to the end cap of the filter housing and engages the plunger so that when the plunger is depressed the elastomeric ball valve moves inward toward the center of the box and out of the seat of the second exit. A fountain head is rotatably secured in the plunger and the lever for communication with the duct in the plunger.

A spring is interposed between the plunger and the filter housing pushing the elastomeric ball valve against the valve seat of the second outlet.

A front box having the first and second conduits is fixed non-removably to the filter housing. The front box includes a directional valve that resides inside the front box and can be moved there to direct the water inside the filter to filter or through the front box to direct the use of unfiltered water. The filter box includes three protuberances which interengage with the corresponding openings in the front box. The front box also includes a continuous periphery welded to the filter box by one of the aforementioned methods. The filter housing includes a recess whose shape is the reciprocal of the continuous periphery of the front case and of the continuous periphery of the front case which fits loosely within the recess in the filter case. The end cap of the filter box is welded to the filter box. Three parts, the filter box, the front box and the end cap of the filter box are welded together to provide an integral or single body construction.

A gate has a magneto fixed there resides in the camera and oscillates between a first position and a second position. The spacers extend from the end cap and serve to ensure that the gate remains in alignment with the ground. These spacers also serve to ensure that the filter subset remains in a suitable position. The first end cap of the filter includes a first hinge member and the gate includes a second hinge member which coact with the first hinge member to allow the gate to oscillate between the first and second positions. A gate position sensor resides in a dry part of the end cap of the water filter box is actuated when the gate oscillates to the second position and the magnet is in proximity to the sensor.

An electronic package and the light-emitting diode reside in the dry part of the end cap of the water filter box. The electronic package outputs a signal to the light emitting diode that indicates the performance of the water filtration device. The electronic package outputs three discrete signals to the light emitting diode to indicate three levels of filter performance.

A filter performance indicator for use in the water filter which includes a gate having a first magnet fixed thereto and a filter limit having hinges on it forming a pivot thereon and a second magnet attached thereto is also described here. The gate is pivotally fixed to the hinges and can be moved in an arc between a first position when no flow hits the gate and the first and second magnets are coupled together and a second position when the flow hits the gate and the valves. First and second magnets are not coupled together. A filter box includes a sensor there to sense the presence of the gate and the first magnet when the gate is in the second position. The filter performance indicator distinguishes exactly between flow and non-flow conditions. The gate includes a conically placed structure extending from the rear or rear end thereof which coact with a cylindrically extending conduit which extends from the filter boundary.

A method for making a water filtration device is also described and comprises the steps of securing the end caps to the filter; insert the filter inside the filter box; Align the filter inside the filter box; inserting a part of a gate into corresponding receptacles on one end of one of the end caps previously attached to the filter; inserting a sensor and an electronic package into an open end of a filter box end cap; attaching the filter box end cap to the filter box forming a chamber between a closed end of the filter box end cap and the end of one of the end caps; and fix a front box to the filter box. The step of attaching the end caps to said filter can be carried out with adhesive. And the steps of fixing the end cap of the filter box, attaching the end cap of the filter box to the filter box and fixing the front box to the filter box can be carried out by an ultrasonic welding process or one of the other welding processes and identified here.

Another embodiment of the bathroom water filtration device includes a filter housing and a water filter that resides within the filter housing as described in connection with the other embodiments. A water inlet in the filter box admits unfiltered water to the water filter. The filter box includes a first filtered water outlet and a second filtered water outlet as described in connection with other additions. An upwardly extending tube having a conduit there resides within the chamber in the filter housing and is in communication with the second outlet. Preferably the tube is a thermoplastic elastomer. A valve is moved between a first position in contact with the second filtered outlet and a second position not in contact with the second filtered outlet. When the valve is in its second position it is in proximity to the second filtered outlet and the tube conduit divides the water flow between the first filtered water outlet and the second filtered water outlet. The tube is arched in three dimensions. Other designs may use a tube that is not arched or that is arched in one or two directions. The valve does not sit against the tube that extends upwards thus dividing the flow of water to the outlets. In the division of the water flow together with the controlled depression of a lever which operates the valve allows the control of water expelled from the source head.

Preferably the valve is an elastomeric material and is spaced approximately 0.050 inches apart from the conduit of said tube when it is in the second position. The water filter is secured to a filter end cap and the filter box includes a filter box end cap. The filter end cap and the filter box end cap form a wet chamber having controlled dimensions. The filter end cap includes an opening from which the filtered water is expelled into the humid chamber and distributed through the tube to at least the second filtered water outlet.

The filter end cap includes the first, second, third and fourth supports for the tube to assist in placing the tube out of the oscillating gate obstruction and aligning the tube conduit in proximity to the valve. The filter end cap further includes a hinge and a flow sensing gate secured in the form of a pivot to the hinge. In the first position the gate resides in proximity to the opening in the filter end cap. In the second position the gate swings pivotably out of the opening in the filter end cap.

Preferably the flow sensing gate and the opening in the filter end cap are axially offset to prevent the tube. As discussed in connection with other embodiments, the flow sensing gate includes a first magnet attached thereto and the filter end cap includes a second magnet attached thereto. The magnets can be adjusted with pressure inside the respective boxes or these can be secured by adhesive. In a first position the gate and its magnet are spaced apart from the filter end cap and its magnet. In the first position the magnets show mutual attraction. A flow sensing gate position sensor resides externally to the end cap of the water filter housing. The flow sensor gate position sensor is operated when the flow sensing gate swings to the second position and the first magnet is in proximity to the flow sensor gate position sensor. The geometry of the gate with respect to the magnet in the filter end cap and the sensor in the dry part of the filter box end cap produce a reliable flow indication.

A source head is in communication with the filtered water outlet and expels the filtered water from it. The source head includes a first rotatably adjustable member that rotates in an arc about a first axis and a second adjustably rotatable member that rotates in an arc about a second axis. The first rotary member has a first conduit in communication with the filtered water outlet and the second rotary member has a second conduit in communication with the first conduit. The second conduit of the second rotating member is in communication with the outside of the second rotating member for the expulsion of the filtered water. The first and second axes of the first and second rotating members are orthogonal so that the filtered water is expelled from the source head to a set and desired path. Preferably the first and second adjustably rotatable members are thermoplastic elastomers and sealingly engage one another. In addition, the first adjustably rotatable member seals with respect to the plunger into which it is inserted.

The valve includes a plunger that has a foot and a ball valve that resides on the foot. The foot of the plunger and the elastomeric ball valve reside inside the box. A spring is interposed between the plunger and the filter housing pushing the elastomeric ball valve against the valve seat of the filtered water outlet. A handle or lever is fixed in a pivot to the box and engages the plunger so that When the lever and plunger are depressed against the spring thrust the elastomeric ball valve moves out of the valve seat of the filtered water outlet by expelling the water from the source head. The handle fixed in the form of a pivot is rotated in an arc about a third axis orthogonal to the first and second axes so that filtered water is expelled from the source head to a set and desired path in three axial directions. Another way to express the water path that leaves the source head is in terms of a vector that has magnitudes along the x-axis, y and z traditional.

As mentioned above in connection with other embodiments, the water filter box includes a box end cap attached thereto. Preferably the box end cap is ultrasonically welded to the water filter box. The wet chamber is defined by the filter box end cap, the filter end cap and the filter box. The filter box end cap includes a first stop and a second stop. The first end cap includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion. The first protrusion of the filter end cap interengages with the first stop of the filter box end cap and prevents rotation of the filter end cap and the water filter attached thereto. Preferably the water filter is secured to both of its end caps with adhesive. The second protrusion of the filter end cap interengages with the second stop of the filter box end cap preventing rotational movement of the filter end cap and the filter. As with the other embodiments described herein the water filter is not removably contained within the water filter box and secured to the filter end caps. A conduit in one of the filter end caps communicates water from the filter to the chamber. Preferably, the conduit through the filter end cap is off-center to facilitate the design and operation of the gate so that it does not interfere with the pipe or valve. The gate preferably includes an arcuate protrusion which coact with a conical discharge which protrudes from the filter end cap. The duct in the filter end cap passes through the conical protrusion of the filter end cap.

In the formation of the chamber, the filter box end cap and the filter end cap are spaced apart by the first and second spacers of the filter box end cap. In this way, the dimensions of the chamber are maintained for the operation of the valve and the gate.

A method for making a water filtration device includes the steps of: attaching the end caps to a filter; insert the filter inside a filter box; Align the filter inside the filter box; inserting a hinge part of a gate into corresponding receptacles on one end of one of the end caps previously attached to the filter; inserting a part of a tube into an opening inside the filter box forming a first outlet; aligning the tube with respect to one of the end caps previously fixed to the filter; securing the filter box end cap to the filter box forming a chamber between a closed end of the filter box end cap and the filter end cap; and fix a front box to the filter box. Additionally, the step of attaching the filter box end cap to the filter box includes the step of interengaging the stops on the end cap of the filter box with the protuberances on the filter end cap preventing rotation of the filter box. the filter end cap and the filter. Additionally, the method may include the steps of: inserting a plunger having a shoe into a second box outlet; place a boot valve on the shoe; insert a spring between the filter box and the plunger; and fastening a pivotable lever to the filter box. Still further the method may include the steps of: inserting a first rotatably adjustable member into the pivotable lever and the plunger; and inserting a second adjustably rotatable member into the first adjustably rotatable member.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which is disposable and provides an indication of when the filter should be discarded.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which is small in size and which resides essentially backward with respect to the water tap to which it is mounted.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which is self-contained and which requires no maintenance and in fact which can not be maintained because the parts thereof are fixed not removably together or not removably contained there.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device at a reasonable cost which is disposable and which is mounted on a water tap.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which includes an oscillating gate having a magnet there which in combination with a sensor and an electronic package provides a visual indication of the status or performance of the filter.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which includes two filtered outlets.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which includes a valve outlet with the valve operated by a lever.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which includes an outlet having a fountain head rotatably mounted.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a water filtration device which includes a lever operated source.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a gate which includes a magnet used to place information about the position of the gate.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a reliable gate position sensing system which distinguishes exactly between flow and non-flow conditions.

It is an object of the present invention to control the pressure of filtered water within a water filtration device chamber.

It is an object of the present invention to divide the flow of filtered water between two outlets as to control the amount of flow out of one of the outlets.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a source head which is rotatably adjustable in one, two or three axes.

It is an object of the present invention to place a valve within the vicinity of two filtered water outlets to control the flow from each outlet.

It is an object of the present invention to place a valve in proximity to a tube having a conduit therethrough which is interconnected to a filtered water outlet to control the flow therefrom without engaging the tube.

It is an object of the present invention to place a valve in the middle of a tube having a conduit through it interconnected with a first filtered water outlet and a second filtered water outlet to control the pressure inside the chamber and to control the flow of water expelled from the first and second filtered water outlets.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a source head for expelling filtered water which is rotatably adjustable in three axes.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a source head for expelling the filtered water having an adjustable pressure and path.

These and the additional objects will become apparent when reference is made to the brief description of the drawings, the description of the invention and claims which follow below.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a schematic overall view of a first embodiment of a water filtration device.

Figure IA is a schematic overall view of a third embodiment of a water filtration device with a different left end cap and a second magneto employed.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 2A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the water filtration device with the valve handle pulled forward.

Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the water filtration device taken along lines 3-3 of Figure 2. In Figure 3 the filter is not operating as the water is not being directed to this one.

Figure 3A is an amplification of a part of figure 3.

Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the water filtration device with the source lever depressed and with water flowing through the filter.

Figure 3C is an amplification of a part of Figure 3B.

Figure 3D is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the water filtration device similar to Figure 3 with a ring-0 used as an additional seal for the filter sub-assembly.

Figure 3E is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap and a second magneto employed.

Figure 3F is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap and a second magnet employed and with the source lever depressed and with the water flowing through the filter.

Figure 3G is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap and a second magneto employed and with the source lever not depressed there with the water not flowing through the filter.

Figure 4 is an amplification of the front box of the first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the front box taken along the lines 4A-4A of Figure 4.

Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of the front box taken along the lines 4B-4B of Figure 4.

Figure 4C is a top view of the front case of the first embodiment.

Figure 4D is an enlarged posterior perspective view of the front case of the first embodiment.

Figure 4E is a cross-sectional view of the rotating ring (tap adapter) and the closing ring which is secured to the front box.

Figure 4F is a cross-sectional view of the spiker mounted on the front case.

Figure 4G is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 4G-4G of Figure 2 with the flow diverter valve inserted in the front case in a first position, the diverting position.

Figure 4H is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 4H-4H of Figure 2A with the flow diverter valve inserted in the front box in a second position which directs the flow into the filter.

Figure 5 is a front perspective view of the filter box of the first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 5A is a front view of the filter box of the first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view of the filter box taken along the lines 5B-5B of Figure 5A.

Figure 5C is a cross-sectional view of the filter box taken along the lines 5C-5C of Figure 5A.

Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view of the filter box taken along the lines 5D-5D of Figure 5A.

Figure 5E is a bottom view of the filter box of the first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 5F is a left side view, the open end view, of the filter box of the first embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the valve and its handle which are used in both the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 6A is a perspective view of the other side of the valve and its handle of Figure 6.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the electronic package (electrical circuit), of the sensor and of the light-emitting diode used in the first and second incorporations of the water filtration device.

Figure 7a is a side view of the electronic package (electrical circuit), the sensor and the light emitting diode package of Figure 7.

Figure 8 is a side view of the box end cap.

Figure 8A is a perspective view of the other side, for example, the wet side of the box end cap illustrated in Figure 8.

Figure 9 is a front view of the gate of the first embodiment.

Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 9A-9A of Figure 9.

Figure 9B is a front view of another incorporation of the gate having a conical protrusion extending therefrom as well as a cylindrical extrusion extending therefrom.

Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view of the gate taken along the lines 9C-9C of Figure 9B.

Figure 9D is a rear view of the incorporation of the gate illustrated in Figure 9B.

Figure 10 is a front view of the left end cap of the filter.

Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view of the left end cap of the filter taken along the lines 10A-10A of Figure 10.

Figure 10B is a front view of another embodiment of the left end cap of the filter.

Figure 10C is a cross-sectional view of the incorporation of the left end cap of the filter of Figure 10B taken along the lines 10B-10B.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the plunger used in conjunction with the lever and the elastomeric ball valve.

Figure HA is a perspective view of the plunger used in conjunction with the lever and the elastomeric ball valve.

Figure 11B is a top view of the plunger.

Figure 11C is a cross-sectional view of the plunger taken along the lines 11C-11C of Figure 11B.

Figure 11D is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 11D-11D of Figure 11B.

Figure 12 is a front view of the ball valve.

Figure 12A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 12A-12A of Figure 12.

Figure 13 is a top view of the lever used to operate the plunger of the first embodiment.

Figure 13A is a cross-sectional view of the lever taken along the lines 13A-13A of Figure 13.

Figure 13B is a perspective view of the lower side of the lever of figure 13.

Figure 14 is a front view of the source head.

Figure 14A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 14A-14A of the source head of Figure 14.

Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of the invention.

Figure 15A is a schematic perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the invention.

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a water filtration device.

Figure 16A is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the water filtration device with the valve handle pulled forward.

Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the water filtration device taken along lines 17-17 of Figure 16.

Figure 17A is a cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the water filtration device similar to Figure 17 except that the gate is shown rotated from left to right in the flow condition.

Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 17C is a cross-sectional view of the fourth embodiment of the water filtration device with the gate shown in the open position.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of the front box of the second embodiment.

Figure 18A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 18A-18A of Figure 18.

Figure 18B is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 18B-18B of Figure 18.

Figure 18C is a top view of the front case of the second embodiment.

Figure 18D is a rear perspective view of the front box of the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 18E is a cross section taken along the lines 18E-18E of Figure 16 with the flow diverter valve inserted in the front case in the first position, bypass position.

Figure 18F is a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18F-18F of Figure 16 with the flow diverter valve inserted in the front box in a second position which directs the flow into the filter.

Figure 19 is a front perspective view of the filter housing of the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 19A is a bottom view of the filter housing of the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 19B is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 19B-19B of Figure 19A.

Figure 19C is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 19C-19C of Figure 19C.

Figure 19D is a left side view, the open end view, of the filter housing of the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 20 is a front side view of the end cap of the box of the second embodiment of the water filtration device.

Figure 20A is a view of the right side of the end cap of Figure 20.

Figure 20B is a perspective view of the end cap of Figure 20.

Figure 20C is a view of the left side of the end cap of Figure 20.

Figure 20D is another perspective view of the end cap.

Figure 21 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 21A is a generally front perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 21B is a generally posterior perspective view of another embodiment of the invention.

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 22-22 of Figures 21A and 21B illustrating the lever not depressed and not flowing through the filter.

Figure 22A is an enlarged view of a part of figure 22 illustrating the valve and the tube.

Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view similar to that of Figure 22 illustrating the path of the filtered water with the filter lever and the valve not driven but with the flow of water through the filter.

Figure 23A is an end view of the water filtration device in the absence of the filter box end cap with the lever and valve not actuated.

Figure 23B is a cross-sectional view similar to that of Figure 23 illustrating the path of filtered water with the lever and valve actuated.

Figure 23C is an amplification of a part of Figure 23B.

Figure 23D is an end view of the water filtration device absent from the filter box end cap with the lever and valve actuated.

Figure 24 is an end view of the invention illustrating the rotation of the second adjustably rotating member.

Figure 24A is a top view of the invention illustrating the rotation of the first rotatably adjustable member.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of the gate illustrated in Figure 21 and following.

Figure 25A is a side view of the gate of figure 25.

Figure 25B is a cross-sectional view of the gate of Figure 25.

Figure 26 is an enlarged perspective view of the first and second rotatably adjustable members.

Figure 6A is a perspective view of the second adjustably rotating member.

Figure 26B is a cross-sectional view of the second adjustably rotatable member taken along the lines 26B-26B of Figure 26A.

Figure 26C is a perspective view of the first member is rotatably adjustable.

Figure 26D is a cross-sectional view of the first adjustably rotatable member taken along the lines 26D-26D of Figure 26C.

Figure 27 is a perspective view of the tube.

Figure 27A is a view of the tube as seen in Figure 22.

Figure 27B is a view of the tube as seen in Figure 23A.

Figure 27C is a view of the tube from the other side of Figure 27A.

Figure 27D is a view from the tube from the other side of Figure 27B.

Figure 27E is a top view of the tube.

Figure 27F is a bottom view of the tube.

Figure 28 is an end view of the filter box end cap.

Figure 28A is a perspective view of the filter box end cap.

Figure 28B is a view of the entire filter box end cap illustrating the first and second stops.

Figure 28C is a view of the end cap of the filter box with the battery, the electronic package, the LED, and a removable non-conductive appendage under a battery contact in a dry chamber there.

Figure 29 is a view of one of the filter end caps illustrating the gate hinge and the rotation prevention protrusions.

Figure 29A is a side view of one of the filter end cap of Figure 29.

Figure 29B is a side filter view of the end cap of Figure 29.

Figure 29C is a front side view of the end cap of Figure 29.

Figure 30 is a top view of the lever.

Figure 30A is a cross-sectional view of the lever taken along the lines 30A-30A of Figure 30.

Figure 30B is a bottom perspective view of the lever.

Figure 30C is a front view of the plunger.

Figure 31 is a view of the battery, the electronic package, the LED and a removable non-conductive appendage below a battery contact.

Figure 31A is another view of the battery, the electronic package, the LED, and a removable non-conductive appendage below a battery contact.

There will be a better understanding of the drawings when reference is made to the description of the invention and to the claims that follow here below.

Description of the invention Referring to the figure, a schematic overall view of a first embodiment of the water filtration device 100, of the various components of the water filter mounted on the single use water tap is illustrated. The filter 113 is illustrated having a longitudinal hole 129 therethrough. The filter 113 is illustrated without a filter pre-wrap in this view but such pre-wrap 495 is specifically within the scope of the invention and is illustrated in Figures 4G and 4H. The filter is preferably a carbon block but can be a bunch of fiber or a granular activated carbon. In addition, the carbon block may include bacteriostatic materials, zeolite ion exchange resins to aid in its filtration activity. The end caps 114 and 115 are attached to the filter with hot melt adhesive applied to the complete matching surfaces of the end caps 114 and 115 including but not limited to the pin portions thereof such as the plug 13OA on the right end cap 130. Once the filter 113 is attached to the filter end caps 114 and 115, the sub-assembly is inserted into the filter case 101. The end caps 114 and 115 include the peripheral seal portions the which seal ring 301. See figure 3 for example. The rings at 0 375 and 376 ensure that water entering ring 301 flows through filter 113 and does not jump end caps 114 and 115 and migrate into chamber 350. See Figure 3D. To ensure that the subset is properly oriented, the gate hinges 132 and 132A must be aligned in relation to a mark 160 on the filter housing when the subassembly is inserted in the filter housing 101. The gate hinges 132 and 132A are properly positioned when their axes are parallel to each other. the earth or parallel to a tangent of the surface of the earth.

Referring to FIG. 5F, the left side view (open end view) of the filter housing 101 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device, the concave right side wall 508 of the filter housing 101 is illustrated together with the molded ribs 515. In this first embodiment the diameter of the filter box 101 is about 1.6 inches and the length of the filter box is seen, for example, in Figures 5 and 5A, is about 4.2 inches. Other dimensions may be used in the construction of water filtration devices as taught herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. When the filter sub-assembly is inserted in the filter housing, the right-hand end cap abuts the ribs 515.

The gate 118 is rotatably secured to the gate hinges 132, 132A by inserting the tines 133 and 133A into the hinges. Knobs or tines 133 and 133A snap fit into the openings in the hinges 132 and 132A allowing rotation of the gate 118 when the water pushes against it as it exits the filter. As will be explained in more detail hereafter, the gate 118 oscillates (rotates = in a left-to-right direction about its axis of rotation (see Figures 3B and 3C) with the application of pressure caused by the flow of water through the filter 113 and the longitudinal hole 129 there.

Referring to Figures 1 and 3, gate 118 includes a magnet 117 which press fit into a recess 134 in the gate and hermetically sealed with either hot melt adhesive or encapsulated compound. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view 300 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device taken along lines 3-3 of Figure 2. The presence or absence of the magnet 117 is perceived by the chopper switch (Cannon relay) 135. The box end cap 102 includes spacers 142 and 143. See Figure 8A, a perspective view of the end cap for better view of spacer 142 which is not well illustrated in the view. of the schematic assembly of Figure 1. The spacers 142, 143 help to correctly space the box end cap 102 with respect to the left end cap 114 of the filter. Once the box end cap 102 is inserted into the filter box 101, the spacers 142 and 143 ensure that the filter subassembly comprising the filter 113, the left end cap 114 and the right end cap 115 do not migrate to the left (see Figure 3) too far away and remain in proximity to the mold ribs 515 inside the box. The box end cap 102 includes a tapered portion 190 for insertion into the filter case 101. A chamber is formed between the end cap 114 and the closed end 803A of the box end cap 102. See figure 3. The water is expelled from the duct 141 in the left end cap 114 of the filter box and exerts a force against the gate 118 which causes it to rotate in a left-to-right direction. As the gate 118 rotates in the direction from left to right the magnet 117 is pushed towards the can switch 135 (cannon relay) causing it to effectively close what initiates the electronic timer within the electronic package 112 to continuously measure the time when the magnet 117 is in proximity to the switch. The electronic package (electrical circuit or integrated circuit) measures the cumulative time of the flow through the filter and outputs signals to the light-emitting diode (LED) indicating the filter performance. The light-emitting diode indicates three colors, representative of a cumulative filter usage one of which indicates that the water filtration device must be discarded. The electrical circuit outputs three discrete signals for the light emitting diode.

The electronic package is secured in a dry well 170 which is in turn secured and closed by the end plate 116. After the box end cap 112 is installed it is welded to the filter box 101. The lid of end 116 is glued or ultrasonically welded to the box end cap 102. That is, the box end cap 102 is welded to the filter box and the end cap 116 is welded or glued to the end cap of box 102. Reference numeral 139 represents the raised portions of the end plate 116 which are ultrasonically welded or glued to the box end cap 102.

Referring to Figure 3 again, the reference numerals 302, 303, 130, 131 signify edges or peripheral portions of filter end caps 114 and 115 that slidably engage and seal against the inner walls of the filter housing. filter 101. Referring to Figure 3D, the elastomeric seal 375 acts as an additional optional seal which resides between the peripheral edge portions 302 and 131 and the elastomeric seal 376 acts as an additional optional seal which resides between the edge portions peripherals 303 and 130.

Still referring to Figure 1, the opening 137 allows the light emitting diode 136 which leaves the electronic package 112 to pass through it. A small amount of encapsulating compound can be used around the light emitting diode to seal any diode space and opening 137 when the light emitting diode is installed in place. The electronic package 112 and the substrate on which the electronics are mounted and are housed in a dry space in the box end cap 102.

Referring to Figures 1 and 5, the filter box 101 including its inlet 125, the filtered outlet 107A, and the filtered outlet 180 are illustrated. The filtered output 107A always expels the filtered water when the filtered water enters the filter box inlet 125. See Figure 4H. The inlet 125 is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a recess 126 for receiving an O-ring seal 502 and a conduit 505 for carrying unfiltered water into the filter housing so that it can be filtered by the filter 113. The filter 113 is a carbon block filter and it is necessary that the water to be filtered has a residence time in contact with the filter so that the impurities can be removed.

The preferred materials of the front box 102, the filter box 101 and the box end cap 102 are ABS plastic (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) even though other plastics may be used. The preferred adhesive to be used to secure the end caps 114 and 115 to the filter is a hot melt adhesive. The gate material is HDPE (high density polyethylene). The end caps 114 and 115 are also made of high density polyethylene and the material used for sealing. The lever 122 is preferably of an acetyl material.

Figure 5 is a front perspective view 500 of the filter box 101 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device, for example a filter for a bathroom. Fig. 5 illustrates an input surface 504 adapted to receive a corresponding matching surface 190 from the box end cap 102. See Fig. 1 to identify the corresponding matching surface 190 on the box end cap 102.

Referring again to Figure 5, the filter box 101 includes a recessed region 501 for receiving the front case 103 as best seen in Figures 1, 2 and 4G. The hook bolts 127 and 128 help to position the front case 103 with respect to the recessed region 501 for ultrasonic welding thereto. It is the ultrasonic welding of the front box 103 to the filter box which secures the parts together and converts them into an integral unit.

Bolts 127 and 128 fit snugly in the corresponding receptacles 420 and 419 in the front case. Referring to Figure 4D, a rear perspective view 400D of the front box of the first embodiment (bathroom filter) is illustrated together with the receptacles 420 and 419. Reference numerals 415, 417 and 418 indicate mold cavities which are formed as part of the molding process of the front case 103. The seal 421 is welded to the filter case 101. Also, referring to FIGS. 4G and 5, the ring seal on 0502 which resides in the recess 126 matches a cylindrical recess 410 in the front case 103 as illustrated in Figure 4D to prevent runoff of water as it is directed into the filter case as will be explained hereafter.

Figure 5A is a front view 500A of the filter case 101 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device. The right end 508 is closed and convexly shaped when viewed from the outside of the filter housing. The view of the interior of the right end 508 as in FIG. 5F is concavely shaped. During assembly of the device, the water filter 113 with the end caps attached thereto is inserted from the left side, on the right side of the filter box 101.

Figure 5B is a cross-sectional view 500B of the filter box taken along the lines 5B-5B of Figure 5A. Figure 5B provides a good illustration of the recess 126 in the inlet 125 and in the pin 128. The outlets 180 and 107A are also illustrated in Figure 5B.

In Figure 5C there is a cross-sectional view 500C of the filter box taken along the lines 5C-5C of Figure 5A. The exit port 180 is illustrated in a cross section as having two diametrical sections 506 and 503. Similarly, the exit port 107A is illustrated as having two diametrical sections 519 and 507.

Figure 5D is a cross-sectional view 500D of the filter box taken along the lines 5D-5D of Figure 5A. Figure 5D illustrates the recessed region 501 in the filter box 101. Also illustrated in Figure 5D is the inlet 125 having the conduit 505 there.

Figure 5E is a bottom view 500E of the filter housing of the first embodiment of the water filtration device illustrating the diametrical portions 507, 519 of the outlet 107A. Figure 5E illustrates the outlet 107A that resides generally forward in the filter housing. The outlet 107A includes the nozzle 107 which is fixed through ultrasonic welding or by gluing it to the filter housing 101. See Figure 1.

Figure 2 is a perspective view 200 of a first embodiment of the water filtration device. Referring to Figures 1, 2, 4 and 4E, the ring closure 105 is inserted into the ring 104 and is welded to the surface 401 of the front case 103. Figure 4 is an amplification 400 of the front case of the first case. incorporation of the water filtration device. Figure 4E is a cross-sectional view 400E of the ring 104, the ring closure 105 and the grid 110. The grid 110 includes a generally circular elastomeric periphery and a convexly shaped grid portion 110A. The ring 104 can rotate with respect to the ring closure 105 in the process of connection and disconnection with a water tap. The faucet (not shown) seals on the elastomeric part of the grill 110. The grill 110 helps remove matter from large particles.

Referring still to Figure 2, the front case 103 is illustrated in its assembled condition welded to the filter case 101. The valve and the valve handle 108 are illustrated in the first position or bypass position. Figure 4G is a cross-sectional view 400G taken along the lines 4G-4G of Figure 2 with the flow diverter valve 108 inserted in the front box in a first position, the deviation position. Flow arrow 470 indicates the flow path that flow will take through the front case when water is diverted from the filter. Figure 4H is the cross-sectional view 40OH taken along the lines 4H-4H of Figure 2A with the flow diverter valve 108 inserted in the front box in a second position which directs the flow into the filter. The flow arrow 471 indicates the flow path through the front case when the diverter valve 108 is rotated from right to left when Figure 4H is viewed to a second position. Referring to Figure 2A, the valve and valve handle 108 are pulled forward to the second position when it is desired to filter the water.

Referring again to Figures 4G and H, the elastomeric seal 450 is illustrated as sealing the conduits 603 and 610 in the valve 108. The conduit 610 is formed by the wall 611 and the conduit 603 is formed by the wall 605 which is of horn shape. See Figure 6, a perspective view 600 of the valve and its handle 108 which are used in both the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration device. The handle portion of the valve includes an insert 109 which can be glued to a corresponding recess 109 in the handle. See figure 1.

Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view 400A taken along lines 4A-4A of Figure 4 illustrating the generally cylindrical wall 401 to which the ring closure 105 is welded. Figure 4E is a cross-sectional view 400E illustrating the ring closure 105 secured to the wall 401 with the ring 104 being rotated and moved slightly vertically for engagement with a water tap. The grid 110 is also illustrated in Figure 4A.

Referring again to Figure 4A, the valve 108 is not shown there so as to see the valve stop 407 which controls the rotation of the valve between its first position (bypass position) and the second (filter) position. The valve cavity 430 is tapered as it extends inwardly as indicated by the circular lines 412 and 431. See Figures 4A and 4B. The ports 403 and 408 join to form a water inlet to the valve cavity 430. The water outlet 409 carries the water to be filtered when the front box is fixed non-removably to the filter housing 101 and the valve 108 He is in his second position. Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view 400B taken along the lines 4B-4B of Figure 4 and also illustrates the taper of the valve cavity 430.

Referring again to Figures 4A and 4B, the recess 416 is illustrated to receive a seal 640 on the valve 108 illustrated in Figure 6. The conduit or deflection port 414 is illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B. The stop 407 is also illustrated in FIG. 4B as is the recess 410 for the receiving inlet 125 of the filter housing 101. Referring to FIG. 4A, the mold opening 415 from the molding process is illustrated in cross section. Figure 4C is a top view 400C of the front case 103 of the first embodiment and also illustrates the ports 403 and 408.

Figure 4 is an amplification 400 of the front case 103 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device illustrating the wall 401 to which the ring closure 105 is welded. The ports 403, 408 on the floor 404 are shown in FIG. the upper part of the box as are the mold openings 402. The recess 416 in the valve cavity 431 is shown as an eyebrow 406 which is welded to the filter box 101. The recess 416 receives the seal 640 on the valve 108 as to prevent runoff around the valve 108.

Referring again to Figures 1 and 4A, the bottom part 103A of the front case is illustrated together with the hole 422 having the stepped portions 429 and 413. The hole 422 receives the aerator assembly 111 / IIIA and the nozzle 106 ensures the aerator assembly in place when being welded to the bottom part 103A of the case 103. See FIG. 4F a cross-sectional view 400F of the aerator assembly 111 / IIIA mounted on the front case.

Referring to Figures 3-3D, reference numbers 302, 303, 131 and 130 indicate a sliding latch of the filter end caps 114 and 115 with the filter housing 101. Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 3, the second outlet 180 in the filter box 101 is described. The alignment mark 160 is also well illustrated in Figure 1 and this is the mark which is used during assembly to ensure that the cap of left filter end 114 and hinges 132 / 132A are positioned so that the axis of the hinges is parallel to the ground allowing the gate 118 to oscillate freely with the application of pressure thereto and not to be joined. The plunger 120 has a conduit 12OA there that fits somewhat loosely within the second outlet 180 and is slidably movable there. The lever 122 rests in engagement with the plunger 120 so that the plunger 120 and the lever 122 move together. Referring to figure 2, the lever 122 is hinged and moves in the form of a pivot on the prongs or protuberances 138 of the box end cap 102. Like the lever 108, the lever 122 has a decorative insert 123 which resides in a corresponding recess. The source head 119 resides in and through the conduit 122A in the lever 122. The source 119 includes a conduit 119A in communication with the conduit 120A in the piston 120. The conduit 120A is exposed to the fluid under pressure in the chamber 350 when the Plunger is depressed by lever 122.

The plunger 120 includes a shoe portion 1104. Figure 11 is a perspective view 1100 of the plunger 120 used in conjunction with the lever 122 and the elastomeric ball valve 121. The plunger 120 includes a cylindrical portion 1103 and an arrow 1105 with a shoe 1104 on the end thereof. A flat extending portion 1101 of the plunger resides against a corresponding surface of the lever 122. A taper 1102 leads to the duct 120A.

Figure HA is another perspective view 1100A of the bottom side of the plunger 120 used in conjunction with the lever 122 and the elastomeric ball valve 121. The contoured side edge portion 1150 of the plunger 120 engages the lever 122. The duct 120A and the bottom side 1106 of the flat extending part 1101 are better seen in the figure HA. The spring 124 is operated between the bottom side 1106 of the plunger and a lip 570 of the filter housing. See Figure 3, a cross-sectional view 300 of the first embodiment of the water filtration device taken along lines 3-3 of Figure 2. In Figure 3, the filter is not operating meaning that the valve diverter 108 is in the deviation position (first).

Figure 11B is a top view 1100B of the plunger 120 illustrating the duct 120A. Figure 11C is a cross-sectional view 1100C of the plunger 120 taken along the lines 11C-11C of Figure 11B. Figure 11D is a cross-sectional view 1100D taken along lines 11D-11D of Figure 11B.

Figure 12 is a front view 1200 of the ball valve 121. Figure 12A is a cross-sectional view 1200A taken along lines 12A-12A of Figure 12. The shoe 1104 is covered by an elastomeric valve 121. which includes a cavity which is essentially reciprocally shaped to the shape of the shoe.

The elastomeric valve of boot 121 includes a surface 1202 which engages the interior of the filter housing around conduit 506. See Figures 5C and 3.

Figure 3A is an amplification 300A of a part of Figure 3 illustrating the valve 121 engaged with the inner wall of the case 101. The spring 124 is operable between a filter case 101 and the plunger 120 and pushes the plunger and the lever up when seen in Figures 3 and 3A.

Still referring to Figure 3, an annular space 301 between the filter 113 and the filter box 101 is illustrated. The water occupies this annular space 301 during the operation of the filter. The water resides in this ring and flows through the filter 113 into the conduit 129 and the exit port 141 by hitting the damper 118 by rotating it from left to right. When the water filtering device of the first embodiment is operated, water will be expelled from both outlets 107A and 180 if the lever 122 is depressed. If the lever is not depressed then the elastomeric valve 121 will be seated against the arcuate inner surface of the filter housing 101 and the water will be ejected just from the outlet 107A. The valve 121 is preferably elastomeric but can be made of other materials such as metal. In a similar way, the filter box can be made of metal if desired and the valve can be made of metal as well. Figure 3 illustrates the spacer 142 extending from the closed end 803A of the box end cap 102 near the left filter end cap 114. Figure 8 is a side view 800 of the box end cap 102. closed end 803 is a wall or boundary between the wet chamber 350 and the electronic package 112 and the sensor 135. The guide ribs 801, 802 and 810 allow the positioning of the electronic package formed generally rectangular in the dry well 811 of the box end cap 102. The end plate 116 fits over openings 811 of the end cap and is either welded or glued 139 to the end cap by a hermetic seal thereof. During the assembly, the light emitting diode 136 is carefully placed within the opening 137 first followed by the electronic package 112 which is placed inside the opening 811. Figure 8A is a perspective view 800A of the other side eg the wet side, of the end cap illustrated in Figure 8. The inclined surface 190 which is welded to the filter box 101 is illustrated in Figure 8A.Figure 3B is a cross-sectional view 300B of the first incorporation of the water filtration device with the source lever 122 depressed and the valve 121 out of its seat. It will be noted that the plunger 120 bends slightly when the lever 122 is depressed. This bending tends to seal the conduit denoted with the reference number 506. The gate 118 is shown rotated from left to right due to the water flow out of the conduit 141. In this position the gate 118 and the magnet 117 are in proximity to the cannula switch 135. Figure 3C is an amplification 300C of a portion of Figure 3B and illustrates the flow path 391 of the water beyond the valve 121, through the conduit 120A of the plunger 120 and through the duct 199A of the Source 119. It will be noted in Figures 3, 3A, 3B and 3C that the outlet 107A is not shown there since it is located forward with respect to the cross section of these drawing figures.

Figure 6 is a perspective view 600 of the valve 108 and its handle which are used in both the first embodiment and the second embodiment of the water filtration device. Figure 6 illustrates the bottom side (the side that is not exposed) when looking at Figure 2. Reference number 612 illustrates a cavity from the molding process. The reference numeral 609 indicates the operating part of the valve 108 and the reference number 608 indicates the other or second end of the valve 108. The ridges 602 engage the stop 407 to limit the rotation of the valve between its first position of detour and its second filter position. A horn-shaped duct 603 is formed by the wall 605. The wall 606 creates a ring 604 in which a seal is placed (not shown in figure 6). A seal 450 is placed on the ring 604 as indicated in Figures 4G and 4H. A slot 607 resides in the valve 108 to receive a seal (not shown in FIG. 6) which prevents water filtering from the device 108 when it is inserted into the front case 103. FIG. 6A is a perspective view 600A of the exposed side of the valve and its handle 108 as seen in Figure 2. Figure 6A illustrates the seal 640 in the slot 607 for sealing the valve 108 which is a snap fit in the front case.

Figure 7 is a perspective view 700 of the electronic package 112, of the battery 701, of the sensor 135, of the conductors 702 and 703 and of the light-emitting diode 136 used in the first and second incorporations of the water filtration device. In the preferred embodiment the sensor 135 is a canister switch as it is also known as a cannon relay. However, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that different sensors based on capacitance principles, piezoelectric principles or induction principles can be employed with some modifications. Figure 7A is a side view 700A of the electronic package illustrated in Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a front view 900 of gate 118 of the first embodiment. The recess 134 receives the magnet 117 which operates the can switch 135 when in proximity thereto. The tines or knobs 134 interenganchan corresponding hinges 134 as illustrated in Figures 1 and 3. Figure 9A is a cross-sectional view 900 taken along the lines 9A-9A of Figure 9. Figure 9A illustrates the contour of the gate 118 which includes the front surfaces 903 and rear 902. The inclined surface 904 diverges to the body 905 having the recess 134 in which the magnet 117 is housed. The latches 901 secure the magnet 117 in place. The magnet is installed by simply pushing on the magnet to guide it beyond the locks 901 which are plastic and somewhat malleable allowing the insertion of the magnet inside the plastic. The magnet is then hermetically sealed with an encapsulating compound.

Figure 10 is a front view 1000 of the left end cap 114 of the filter 113. The hinges 132 / 132A are illustrated in Figures 10 and 10A. Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view 1000A of the left end cap of the filter taken along the lines 10A-10A of Figure 10 illustrating the hinges 132 / 132A, the duct 141, the dowel 1001, and the protrusions 1002 and 1003 which slidably seal with respect to the filter box. The peripheral end portion such as one denoted by the reference number 131 is relatively smooth and seals against the inside of the filter housing.

Figure 13 is a top view 1300 of the lever 122 used to operate the plunger 120 of the first embodiment. The reference number 1301 indicates a recess in which the insert 123 is secured by adhesive. The openings or hinges 140 / 140A engage the protuberances with barbs 138 to pivot as previously described. Figure 13A is a cross-sectional view of the lever 122 squeezed along the lines 13A-13A of Figure 13 also illustrates the opening 14OA. The cavities 1302 and 1303 are illustrated in Figure 13A. The cavity 1303 fits over the flat part 1101 of the plunger 120. See, Figure 11.

Figure 13B is a perspective view 1300B which illustrates the underside of the lever 122 of Figure 13.

The cavity 1303 and the wall 1304 of the cavity 1303 are illustrated. The flat part 1101 of the plunger 120 fits inside the cavity 1303.

Fig. 14 is a front view 1400 of the fountain head 119 illustrating the ridges 1401 and 1402. Fig. 14A is a cross-sectional view 1400A taken along the lines 14A-14A of the fountain head 119 of the Figure 14. Flange 1402 is snapped into place on lever 122 as best seen in Figure 3. Source head 119 is made of plastic. The spring 124 is illustrated in Figure 1 as operable between the seat 570 and the surface 1106. See, Figures 3, 5C and 11C. Figure 3 illustrates the valve 121 seated against the seat 330.

Figures 1-14 are directed toward the first embodiment of the invention. Some of the uses of the first embodiment of the invention are in the bathrooms, hotel and motel rooms. The described device is small and convenient for storage for holiday and business trips. Figures 15-20 are directed to the second embodiment of the invention. The use of the second incorporation includes kitchen and bar uses. Both incorporations are designed so that the filter sits backward with respect to the water tap so that access to the faucet and filter is allowed.

The reference numbers used in FIG. 15 generally correspond to the reference numbers used in FIG. 1, such as, for example, reference numbers 101 and 1501 both indicate filter boxes.

Figure 15 is a schematic perspective view 1500 of a second embodiment of the invention. The filter box 1501 may have, for example, a diameter of 2.40 inches and a length of approximately 3.90 inches. One of the main differences in the second filter's kitchen filter is that it has only one filtered outlet 1507A while the bathroom unit has two filtered outlets 107A and 180. The filters 1513 and 113 can be pre-wrapped 495 using a heat sealing method. See figures 4G and 4H. The adhesive is applied to the filter end caps 1514 and 1515 and then attached to the filter after the subassembly is inserted into the filter housing. The peripheral seal portions of the end caps 1514 and 1515 seal the filter. Optionally, the rings-0 375 and 376 can be used to seal the filter to prevent unfiltered water from entering the 1750 chamber. See figure 17. As in the case of the bathroom filter, the aerator assembly 1511 and the nozzle 1506 are fixed in the front case 1503 as previously illustrated. As also in the case of the bathroom filter, the ring closure 1505 is welded to the front case 1503 and the ring 1504 is allowed to rotate with respect to the ring closure. The grid assembly is inserted into the assembly above the ring closure. Gate 1518 is slightly dimensionally different from gate 118 previously described but operates in the same manner as gate 118. Spacers 1542 and 1543 extend from end cap 1502 and serve to ensure gate 1518 remains in alignment.

The electronic package 112 is the same package used in the first embodiment. The canister switch 135 (or the developer as is sometimes known) senses the proximity of the magnet 1517 and the electronic package measures the total flow time. Instead of the canister switch which is a magnetically coupled device, a capacitance or pressure sensitive device can be used. The pressure sensitive device can be mounted on the closed end of the box end cap 1502.

The valve 108 illustrated in Figure 15 is the same valve used in the bathroom filter of the first embodiment. The spacers 1542, 1543 of the box end cap 1502 help to ensure that the filter subassembly is in place. Referring to Figure 17, a gap (without number) exists between the spacer 1543 and the end cap 1514 of the filter. The spacer limits the movement of the filter subassembly so that it can not move to the left too long before engaging the spacers. The end plate 1516 is glued or welded to the box end cap 102. The box end cap 102 is glued or welded to the filter box 1501.

Figure 16 is a perspective view 1600 of the second embodiment of the water filtration device. Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view 1700 of the incorporation of the water filtration device taken along lines 17-17 of Figure 16. Figure 17A is a cross-sectional view 1700A of the second embodiment of the device water filtration similar to figure 17 except that the gate 1518 is shown rotated from left to right in the flow condition. The ring 1701 is illustrated in Figure 17A. The water resides in the ring and flows through the filter 1513 to the conduit 1527 and to the outlet port 1541 by hitting the gate 1518 by rotating it from left to right.

Referring to Figures 15 and 17, the filter end caps 1514 and 1515 have the peripheral end portions (e.g., 1531 and 1530) which are seals which seal against the inside diameter of the filter case 1501. Although not shown in Figure 17, the optional elastomeric O-ring is similar to 375, 376 and can be used between the peripheral end seals as illustrated in Figure 3D.

Figure 18 is a perspective view 1800 of the front box of the second embodiment. Figure 18 employs the same reference numbers as those of Figure 4. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 18A-18A of Figure 18. Reference number 1801 indicates the wall at the which ring seal 1505 is welded and the reference number 1804 indicates the flow over which the ring closure 1804 sits the moment it is welded. The mold recesses 1802 are from the molding process. The groove or recess 1816 receives the seal from the valve 108. The cavity 1832 receives the valve 108. Referring to Fig. 18A, the stop 1807A is illustrated which engages the ridges 602 on the valve 108. The stop 1807A receives the seal from the valve 108. The cavity 1831 receives the valve 108. Referring to Figure 18A, the stop 1807A is illustrated which engages the ridges 602 on the valve 108. The stop 1807A is also illustrated in Figure 18B, a cross-sectional view taken along the lines 18B-18B of Figure 18. The tapered hole 1812 is illustrated by the circular lines of Figure 18A.

The hole 1822 includes the stepped parts 1813 and 1829. Inlet 1808 is shown leading to valve cavity 1831. Exit 1814 and outlet 1809 are also shown in Figure 18A. When the valve 108 is positioned as illustrated in Fig. 18A the inlet 1808 is connected to the outlet 1814 and the water passes through the front box 1503 and is ejected without being filtered. The flow arrow 1870 shows the flow path through the front case 1503. When the valve 108 is positioned as illustrated in FIG. 18F the input 1808 is connected to the output 1809 where it is directed into the filter by the input 1525 of filter box 1501. See, Figure 16A a perspective view of a second embodiment of the water filtration device with the valve handle pulled out. The flow arrow 1871 shows the flow path through the front case 1503 and inside the inlet 1525 from the filter case.

Referring to Figure 18B, the valve cavity 1831 is illustrated as a stop 1807A and the cross sectional part 1807 of the stop. The unfiltered output 1814 is also shown. Figure 18C is a top view 1800C of the front box 1503 of the second incorporation. Figure 18D is a rear perspective view 1800D of the front case of the second embodiment of the water filtration device. Figure 18D illustrates the receptacles 1819 and 1820 of the front case which engage the bolts 1528 and 1527 respectively. The mold recesses of the molding process are indicated by the reference numbers 1817, 1818, 1823, 1824 and 1825. The gasket 1821 is welded to the filter box.

Figure 19 is a front perspective view 1900 of the filter box of the second incorporation of the water filtration device. The surface 1904 contacts the corresponding surface on the box end cap 1502. The recesses 1901 engage the perimeter of the front box. Figure 19A is a bottom view 1900A of the filter housing 1501 of the second embodiment of the water filtration device. Figure 19B is a cross-sectional view 1900B taken along the lines 19B-19B of Figure 19A illustrating the port 1907 from which the filtered water is expelled.

Figure 19C is a cross-sectional view 1900C taken along lines 19C-19C of Figure 19C illustrating conduit 1905 at inlet 1525 of filter box 1501. Figure 19D is a left side view 1900D, the open end view, of the filter box 1501 of the second embodiment of the water filtration device illustrating the mold tines in the end box. These tines or ribs 1906 restrict the insert depth of the filter subassembly.

Figure 20 is a front side view 2000 of the end cap of the box 1502 of the second embodiment of the water filtration device. The surface 2007 of the box end cap engages the surface 1904 of the filter box and is welded or glued thereto. Figure 20A is a right side view 2000A of the end cap of Figure 20 illustrating the closed end 2003. Figure 20B is a perspective view 2000B of the end cap of Figure 20 illustrating the closed end and spacers 1543 , 1542. Figure 20C is a view 2000C of the left side of the end cap of Figure 20 illustrating supports 2001, 2002 and 2010 which restrict the movement of the electronic package in place. Figure 20D is another perspective view 2002 of the end cap illustrating the box 2011 in which the electronic package resides.

To assemble the water filtration devices, insert the aerator into the nozzle and then insert the tundish nozzle and ultrasonically weld the aerator and nozzle assembly to the front case. Place the threaded ring on the seat on top of the front case and press the locking ring through the threaded ring and seat the locking ring on the box. Ultrasonically embrace and weld the locking ring to the front case.

Insert the filtered nozzle inside the filter box and hug and weld it to the filter box. Insert the front box in position with respect to the filter box and then ultrasonically weld and weld it to the filter box.

A prefilter can be wrapped around the filter and can be sealed using the hot seal method. Then, the left and right end caps with the adhesive applied to the contact surfaces thereof are inserted into the filter. Uniform pressure is applied to the left and right filter end caps 114, 115, 1514, 1515 to spread the adhesive and allow it to settle. The approximate time to apply the pressure is 2-5 seconds. The magnet is installed in the gate under the pressure of a person's finger or a tool such as tweezers or the equivalent and then it is hermetically sealed in place.

Then, the gate 118, 1518 is snapped shut on the hinges with the magneto face facing out. Indications on the left end cap of the filter sub-assembly are aligned with a mark to other indications on the filter case and the filter sub-assembly is inserted in the filter case. The indicia on the end cap 102, 1502 are aligned with the indicia on the filter box and inserted therein. Once the box end cap is in place, it is embraced and ultrasonically welded to the filter box while retaining the filter not removably inside the filter box.

The lever is installed by snapping it into place in the valve cavity. To install the end of the electronic life package, the light emitting diode is inserted in and through an opening 137. Optionally, the adhesive can be used when the diode is installed in the opening 137 to secure it in position and ensure that the diode is hermetically sealed. The electronic package is installed in the reservoir at the open end of the box end cap with the glass slide switch facing forward. The end plate 116, 1516 is then snapped into place to seal the electronic package. Optionally, the adhesive can be used around the perimeter of the end plate to ensure a tight seal. 0, the end plate can be welded to the box end caps.

The materials which are ultrasonically welded must be docile to welding such as ABS or other plastics.

Figure IA is a schematic assembly view 10OA of a third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap 114A and a second magnet 114B used. The gate 118A is employed in the third embodiment and can be seen in cross section in FIGS. 3E, 3F and 3G. These figures illustrate a conical protrusion 118B extending rearwardly from the gate 118A and partially surrounded by a cylindrically extending protrusion 118C which also emanates from the rear side of the gate 118A. The cylindrically shaped protrusion 118C is larger in diameter than the cylindrically shaped pipe or protrusion 141A extending from the end cap 114A. Figure 3E shows the ratio of the diameters of the respective cylindrically shaped extensions 118C and 141A.

Figure 3E is a cross-sectional view 300E of the third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap 118A and a second magneto 114B employed. The conical protrusion 118B extends from the rear side of the gate 118A. Figure 3E illustrates the condition without flow and the gate in the first position. In this condition, the magneto 117 which resides in the gate 118A is coupled to the magnet 114B which resides in the end cap 114A. It is the coupling effect of the magnetos which ensures that the magnet 117 does not inappropriately or unintentionally actuate the reed switch and indicates a flow condition.

The magnets 117 and 114B are attractive magnets and are oriented so that they attract one another. The magnet 117 is secured within the gate 118A and the magnet 114B is secured within the left end cap 114A. An adhesive or encapsulated compound can be used to secure the respective magnet inside the gate 118A and the left end cap 114A. Therefore, since the magnets are attractive, the gate is also attracted to the left end cap when it is in proximity to the left end cap. As long as the flow through the filter leaves the cylindrical extension 141A with sufficient speed and force, it exceeds the magnetic attraction or coupling of the magnets 117 / 114B and allows the gate to move in an arc to its second position. When the flow is discontinued through the filter, the magnets 117 / 114B will be coupled when they are sufficiently close to each other. The magnets help ensure that the gate will not unintentionally occupy an intermediate position between the first position and the second position. The magnets ensure that the gate resides in the first position where there is no flow through the filter.

The end cap 114A is sometimes referred to herein as a limit filter cap. This is the backward side 118A which experiences and reacts the kinetic energy of the water flow emanating from the cylindrical conduit 141A of the filter end cap 114A. The conical protrusion 118B resides partially within the cylindrical conduit 141A of the end cap 114A. The conical protrusion 118B is generally joined by a cylindrically shaped perimeter in the cross section 118C which aids and focuses the energy of the hitting water when the flow is present as illustrated in Figure 3F.

Figure 3F is a cross-sectional view 300F of the third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap 114 and a second magneto 114B employed and with the fountain lever depressed and with the water flowing through the filter. Figure 3F illustrates the gate in the second position and the flow arrow 391 indicates the flow through the filter.

Figure 3G is a cross-sectional view 300G of the third embodiment of the water filtration device with a different left end cap 114A and a second magnet 114B employed and with the source lever not depressed and without the water flowing through the filter.

Figure 9B is a front view 900B of another incorporation of the gate having a conical protrusion 907 and a cylindrical protrusion 906 extending therefrom. Figure 9C is a cross-sectional view 900C of the gate taken along lines 9C-9C of Figure 9B. Figure 9D is a rear view 900D of the incorporation of the gate illustrated in Figure 9B.

Figure 10B is a front view 1000B of another embodiment of the left end filter cap 114A. The cylindrically extending conduit 141A extends from the filter end cap 114A. Sometimes here the filter end cap 114A is referred to as the filter limit. Figure 10D illustrates the second magnet 114B resting in the cavity or box 114C. The securing of the magnet 114B within the filter end cap 114A can be effected as described above with respect to the magnet which resides in the gate. Figure 10C is a cross sectional view 1000C of the incorporation of the left end cap of the filter of Figure 10B taken along the lines 10B-10B.

Figure 15A is a schematic perspective view 1500A of a fourth embodiment of the invention. Figure 15A illustrates the filter which is best suited for use in a kitchen. The gate 1518A is illustrated as the conically shaped protrusion 1518B and the cylindrical perimeter 1518C. The second magnet 1514B is also shown in perspective in Figure 15A. Figure 17B is a cross-sectional view 17700B of the fourth embodiment of the water filtration device.

The structure, function and operation of the gate 1518A and its magnet 1517 illustrated in Fig. 17B are the same as those described above in relation to the gates and magnets illustrated in Figs. 3G and 3E. Figure 17C is a cross-sectional view 1700C of the fourth embodiment of the water filtration device with the gate shown rotated to the second open position. The structure, function and operation of the gate 1518 and its magnet 1517 illustrated in FIG. 17C are the same as described in relation to FIG. 3F indicated above.

Figure 21 is a schematic view 2100 of another embodiment of the invention illustrating tube 2234 in a chamber which is formed by the filter case end cap 2128 and the filter end cap 2231. Tube 2234 is preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer and is supported by the filter end cap 2231 as described in detail below. Referring to figure 22, the tube 2234 includes a conduit 2237 for communication of the filtered water to a second filtered water outlet 2236. The tube 2234 engages and is press fitted inside the first outlet 2236. The oscillating flow gate 2241 resides in the formed chamber by the filter box end cap and the filter end cap. Referring to FIGS. 28A and 21, the spacers 2807 abut or reside in proximity to the filter end cap 2231. In this manner, the distance between the filter case end cap 2128 and the filter end cap 2231 is controlled thereby ensuring dimensional control for the oscillation of gate 2241 and adequate space for tube 2234.

Referring to Figure 28A, a spacer 2807 is illustrated along with the small shoulders 2805 and 2806 indicating small steps downward. Referring to Figure 28B, spacers 2807 extend from the filter box end cap and are responsible for controlling the depth of chamber 2298 as seen for example in Figures 22, 22A and 23. Reference numbers 2809 and 2807 can be seen in these views behind the structural elements in the background. These spacers are responsible for controlling the depth of the wet chamber and for resisting the tendency of the water pressure to push the filter assembly and the filter end caps towards the filter box end cap. The first stop 2820 acts with the protrusion 2920 extending outwardly from the face of the filter end cap 2231 and is formed integrally therewith to prevent rotation of the filter end caps and the filter with the application of the pressure of water to the water filtration device. Similarly, the second stop 2821 cooperates with the second protrusion 2921 to prevent rotation of the filter end caps and the filter with the application of the water pressure to the water filtration device.

Figure 21A is a generally front perspective view 210OA of the invention. An oval shaped LED 2137 is illustrated prominently in Figures 21A and 24A. The cover 2240 is secured to the filter box end cap with adhesive at the appropriate places while the removal of the appendix 3103 is still allowed. Figure 21B is a generally perspective rear view 2100B of another embodiment of the invention. The handle or lever 2122 is illustrated with a decorative insert 2123.

Referring to Fig. 22, the filter case 2101 includes a filter end cap spacer 2230A on the closed end of the filter case 2101. Still referring to Fig. 22, the filter case end cap 2128 is welded Ultrasonically 2290 to the filter case body 2101.

Figure 28 is an end view 2800 of the filter box end cap 2128. Figure 28A is a perspective view 2800A of the filter box end cap 2128. Figure 28B is a view of the filter cover. filter box end illustrating the first and second stops. Figure 28C is a view 2800C of the filter box end cap with battery 2245, electronic package 2245, LED 2137 and removable non-conductive appendix 3103 below a battery contact 3106 in dry chamber 2801 there.

Referring to Figure 21, battery 2244 and electronic pack 2245 are inserted into the filter box end cap as illustrated in Figures 28, 28A and 28C. Referring to Figures 28, 28A and 28C, the reference number 2801 generally illustrates the cavity 2801 in which the battery 2244 and the electronic package 2245 are housed. The reference numbers 2802 and 2804 accommodate the installation of the LED 2137. The number reference 2803 accommodates the non-conductive pull tab 3103 as it passes through the seal 2239 of the cover 2240. FIG. 31 is a view 3100 of the battery 2244, the electronics package 2245, the LED 2137, and the non-conductive removable appendix 3103 below the battery contact. Figure 31A is another view 3100A of battery 2244, electronics package 2245, LED 2137, and removable non-conductive appendix 3103 below battery contact 3106. Reference numbers 3110, 3111, are power conductors between the battery 2244 and the electronic package 2245. The reference number 3105 is a bundle of wire for the operations of the LED 2137.

Referring to Figures 28A, 29 and 22, the first and second stops 2820 and 2821, respectively, of the filter box end cap cooperate with the first and second protuberances 2920 and 2921, respectively, of the filter end cap. 2231 to prohibit rotation of the filter end cap 2231 and the filter 2113 which is secured thereto by adhesive 2293. Referring to FIG. 22, the adhesive 2293 secures the filter 2113 to the filter end caps 2230 and 2231. Figure 29B illustrates the ribs 2990 in which the adhesive resides to secure the water filter 2113.

Figure 30 is a top view 3000 of the lever 2122. Figure 30A is a cross-sectional view 3000 of the lever 2122 taken along the lines 30A-30A of Figure 30. L Figure 30B is a perspective view of bottom 3000B of lever 2122. Hole 3004 receives decorative insert 2123. Hole 3000 / 3001A as shown in the views coactuates and secures flange 2205 of the first rotatable member adjustably and prevents removal therefrom. The reference numeral 3005 illustrates a cavity in the lower side of the lever 2122 for the reception of the plunger 2206. Reference numeral 3020 indicates the curvature of the lever 2122 coacting with the surface 2631 of the first adjustably rotatable member 2181. The number reference 3008 indicates a slot at the end of the lever for easy installation on the hinge 2212 of the filter box end cap 2128.

Referring to Figure 21, the water filter 2113 is attached to the end caps 2231 and 2230 as previously stated and this assembly is aligned within the filter box 2101 and is inserted therein. Referring to Figures 21 and 22, spring 2211 rests on shoulder 2180A within second filtered water outlet 2210. Cover 2180 essentially covers spring 2111 to prevent oxidation of said spring. The plunger 2206 as illustrated in Figures 21, 22 and 30, is inserted into the second filtered water outlet 2210 and protrudes through the filter box 2101 and into the wetting chamber 2298. The plunger 2206 includes a portion of shoe 2207 and a lever engaging part 2204. An elastomeric valve or boot 22808 extends over shoe part 2207 and is in contact with the inside of the filter box as illustrated in Figures 22, 22A and 23. reference number 2270 is the valve seat portion on the inside of the filter housing as illustrated in Figures 22, 22A, 23, 23B and 23C. The lever 2122 is essentially as described above except that the connection around the hinge is different. Referring to Fig. 23B the reference numeral 2208B indicates the upper part of the boot or ball valve 2208 and the reference number 2208A indicates the bottom of the valve 2208A. The lever 2122 includes the pivot hinge receiving openings 3002, 3003 as best seen in Figures 30, 30A and 30B. Figure 30C is a view 3000C of the plunger 2206 indicating the surface 2204 for engaging the lever 2122 and the surface 2207 for engagement with the elastomeric boot. The perforations 3002 and 3003 are separated by the slot 3008 and coact with the pivot 2210 on the filter box end cap 2128 better seen in FIGS. 28, 28A and 28B. The lever 2122 includes a raised surface 2184 which is concentric with the hole 3001 and this is the surface on which said surface 2621 of the first rotating member 2118 rotates. The surface 2631 of the first rotational member 2181 has a curvature which allows rotation with respect to the surface 3020 of the lever 2122.

Referring to figures 21, 22, 22A, 30 and 30A, the lever 2122 includes a hole through which the first rotatably fitted member 2181 protrudes and is interlocked therewith. The hole 3001 includes a shoulder 3001A and which encloses with the flange 2005 of the first rotatably adjustable member 2181 as illustrated in Figure 22A.

Figure 26 is an enlarged perspective view 2600 of the first and second rotatably adjustable members. Figure 26A is a perspective view 2600A of the first rotatable adjustable members 2181 and second 2182. The part 2183 includes an arcuate surface 2605 which coactuates with the arcuate surface 2605A of the second rotatably adjustable member 2182. Figure 26B is a view in FIG. cross section 2600B of second rotatably adjustable member 2182 taken along lines 26B-26B of Figure 26A. The conduit 2201 of the second rotatably adjustable member communicates with the conduit 2202 of the first rotatably adjustable member as illustrated, for example, in figures 22 and 22A. The conduit 2202 communicates with a conduit 2288 in the plunger 2206 which in turn communicates with the chamber 2298. In this manner, that filter water travels from the chamber 2298 to the duct 2201 and through the duct 2203 where it is expelled .

Figure 26C is a perspective view 2600C of the first rotatably adjustable member 2181 and the rate portion 2183 thereof. As best seen in Figures 26A and 26C, the portion 2605 of the first rotatably adjustable member 2181 is arcuate to allow rotation of the surface 2605A of the second rotatably adjustable member 2182 with respect to the first rotatably adjustable member 2181. Referring to the figures 26 and 26A and 26B, the conduit 22803 of the second rotatably adjustable member 2182 communicates with the exterior thereof and with the conduit 2201. The conduit 2203 expels the filtered water from a countercurrent surface 2604. Figure 26D is a cross-sectional view 2600D of the first rotatably adjustable member taken along lines 26D-26D of Figure 26C. Referring to Figures 26A and 26D, the handle 2602, the flange 2204 and the chamfered flange 2603 of the second rotatably adjustable member marry the respective hole 2606, the receptacle 2607 and the surface 2608. The assembly is improved by the flexibility of the elastomers thermoplastics used for members 2181 and 2182.

The first rotatably adjustable member 2181 and the second rotatably adjustable member 2182 are preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer since this material serves well to seal the respective conduits identified therein. The thermoplastic elastomers provide the flexibility for the whole of the members each to the other and for the insertion inside of the plunger 2206.

Referring to Figures 22A and 22D, the curvature 2631 or cavity 2631 of the first rotatably adjustable member 23181 home with the curvature 3020 of the lever to allow rotation about its axis which can be described as the "Y" axis as it was illustrated with the reference numeral 2402 as seen in Figure 24. Figure 24A is a top view 2400A of the invention illustrating the rotation 2402 of the first rotatably adjustable member.

When Figure 24A is seen, the "Y" axis extends perpendicularly from the page and the reference number 2402 illustrates the rotation of the first rotatably adjustable member 2181. The second rotatably adjustable member 2182 is carried with the rotation of the first rotatably adjustable member 2181 Fig. 24 is an end view 2400 of another embodiment of the invention illustrating the rotation 2401 of the second rotatably adjustable member 2182. When seen in Fig. 24, the "X" axis extends perpendicularly from the page and the reference number 2401 illustrates the rotation of the second rotatably adjustable member 2182.

Figure 23B is a cross-sectional view 2300B similar to Figure 23 illustrating water paths 2301, 2310 and 2310A filtered with lever 2122 and valve 2208 actuated. The flow of water through the filter is controlled by the valve 2108 as described in relation to the valve 208 with respect to Figure 1. The pivoting of the lever is about the axis of the hinge or pivot 2212 here called the "Z" axis. ", when seen in Figure 23B emanates from the page. Therefore, when the lever 2122 is depressed the filtered water discharged from the conduit 2203 is adjusted around the axis,, Z. Thus, the source head 8181, 8182 is adjustably rotated in three axes.

The embodiment illustrated in Figures 21-31A includes a front case portion 2103 attached to the filter housing as previously described herein. The construction materials for incorporation illustrated in Figures 21-31A are the same as other embodiments described herein indicated otherwise. The aerator assembly 2111 and the nozzle 2106 are illustrated in FIG. 21 and are made and operated as previously described herein with respect to the aerator assembly 2111 and the nozzle 2106. The valve and valve handle 2108 and the insert 2109 are also illustrated in Figure 21. Still referring to Figure 21, the ring closure 2105 is inserted into the ring 2104 and fixed as previously described here around and with respect to the corresponding closure 105 and the ring 104. The grid 2110A is provided inside of the entrance of water. The reference numbers 2110A, 2105 and 2104 represent fastening to a water tap as previously described above.

Referring to Figures 21, 22, 23, 23B and 25B, the gate 2241 includes a magnet 2235 and the filter end cap 2231 includes the magnet 2235A. Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view 2200 taken along lines 22-22 of Figures 21A and 21B illustrating the non-depressed lever and without the flow being present through the water filtration device. Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view 2300 similar to Figure 22 illustrating the path of filtered water with lever 2122 and valve 2208 not driven but with the flow set through the water filter.

Figure 25 is a perspective view 2500 of the gate illustrated in Figure 21 and following. The figure 25A is a side view 2500A of the gate of FIG. 25 and of FIG. 25B is a cross sectional view 2500B of the gate of FIG. 25. The bolts or protuberances 2501, 2502 of the gate 2241 co-act with the hinges 2304, 2238 to allow gate 2241 to oscillate from the first position to the second position. The hinges 2304, 2238 are better seen in Fig. 29. Referring to Fig. 25, the flow sensing gate or sometimes referred to herein as gate 2241 includes a bottom part 2504 which is spaced apart from recess 2306 of the gate. filter end cap 2231. In this manner the magnets 2235 and 2235A are separated from one another such as to provide a controlled attraction or engagement to each other. Referring to Figures 25, 25A, 25B, 22, gate 2241 includes an arched portion 2242 on the back of a flat portion 2503. Arcuate portion 2242 resides generally below projection 2232 which extends from the face of the filter end cap 2231. The arched portion 2242 of the gate helps open the gate when water flows through the conduit in the filter end cap 2231.

Fig. 29 is a perspective view 2900 of the filter end cap 2231 illustrating the gate hinges 2304, 2238 and the rotation prevention protrusions 2920 and 2921. The hinge 2304 includes a hole 2901 and the hinge 2238 includes a hole 2909 through it. A frustoconical projection 2232 extends from the face of the filter end cap and is offset slightly from the center of the end cap. Figure 29B is a view of the filter side 2900B of the filter end cap 2231 illustrating the annular recesses or grooves 2920 for receiving the adhesive 2293 to hold the water filter 2213 thereto. Additionally, FIG. 29B illustrates conduit 2991 in the filter end cap 2231 slightly offset from the center. The reference numeral 2240 denotes a water filter bucket which is inserted in the end of the filter 2213. The water flows freely from the outer ring 2214 through the water filter 2213 where it is purified and inside the chute 2209 inside. of the water filter 2213 and then through the conduit 2991. The water filter 2213 has the same characteristics as the water filter means described above.

Referring to Fig. 29, the reference numeral 2309 is a projection from the face of the filter end cap 2231 which includes a first tube holder 2331. Reference numeral 2301 denotes the projection from the face of the cap filter end 2231 which includes a second tube holder 2330. Reference number 2238A is another projection from the face of the filter end cap 2231 which includes a third tube holder 2305. Reference number 2243 is a fourth projection from the face of the filter end cap and is supported by the projection 2238B emanating from the surface of the filter end cap 2231 and is essentially cylindrically shaped as it extends further from the face. The 2243 projection is a fourth tube holder.

Still referring to Fig. 29, a recess 2906 for receiving the magnet 2235A is illustrated as are the circumferentially extending slots 2904 and 2905 which receive the seals 2275, 2275A to prevent unfiltered water from entering the chamber 2298. The seals 2275 and 2275A are illustrated in FIG. 22. FIG. 29A is a side view 2900A of one of the filter end cap 2231 of FIG. 29. FIG. 29A illustrates the side view of the filter end cap. 2331 from the perspective of any one of Figures 22, 22A, 23 and 23A. An additional structural feature is denoted by the reference number 2838B and this feature is used to support the generally cylindrical post 2243.

Fig. 29C is a front side view 2900C of the filter end cap 2331 of Fig. 29 illustrating the supports described in relation to Fig. 29.

Figure 22A is an amplification 2200A of a part of figure 22 illustrating valve 2208 and tube 2234. Figures 22 and 22A show the condition when the water is not directed from the tap inside the filter box as previously described here above.

Figure 23A is an end view 2300A of the water filtration device absent from the filter case end cap 2231 with the lever 2122 and the valve 2208 not driven but with the water flowing as controlled by the valve 2108 as explained previously in relation to other incorporations. Figure 23 illustrates the flow of the filtered water as denoted by the flow arrow and the reference number 2301. When the valve 2108 admits the unfiltered water within the ring 2214 it passes through the water filter 2213 where it is cleaned and the contaminants and the like with removed. The filtered water in the center of the duct 2209 flows through the filter end cap and the semi-conical structure denoted by the reference number 2232 where it sticks on the surface 2503 of the gate 2241. The surface 2503 and the surface arched 2242 on the back side of the gate under the force of water causes the gate rotation to be illustrated in FIG. 23 by bringing the magnet 2335 into proximity with the foil sensor / switch 2277 as previously described herein. The operation of the foil sensor / switch 2270 is the same as previously described here. Water flow 2301 proceeds inside water chamber 2298 around gate 2241 and into conduit 2237 of tube 2234 and then down through the tube as indicated by the reference number where it is ejected from the first filtered water outlet 2236.

Fig. 23C is an amplification 2300C of a portion of Fig. 23B with the lever 2122 depressed and the one with the flow through the water filter 2213 as controlled by the action of the valve 2108 and the valve 2208. Referring to Figs. 22, 22A, 23, 23A, 23B, 23C, 23D, the partition 2250 is illustrated between the ball valve or boot 2208 and the upper tube portion 2234. In each of the aforesaid immediately preceding figure drawings, the Tube 2234 is illustrated partially in cross section in the upper part thereof because the tube is not linear or straight in a vertical direction. Figures 23A and 23D illustrate the arrangement of the gate 2241 and the tube when the filter box 2101 is fixed. Although the illustrated and preferred tube is rectangularly shaped in cross section, it is specifically contemplated that other shapes may be used which do not They have a rectangular cross section. It is also specifically contemplated that the conduit 2237 may take to form different from the circular in cross section. The substantially rectangular tube in cross section is supported as illustrated in Figures 29, 29A and 29C by supports 2303/2331, 2301/2330, 2238A / 2305 and 2243. It is specifically contemplated that other forms and support collocations can be used in conjunction with the tubes having an essentially different shape.

Figure 27 is a perspective view 2700 of the tube illustrating its non-linear three-dimensional. When reference is made to any one of FIGS. 22, 22A, 23, 23A, 23B, 23C or 23D, the tube 2234 is seen as arcing to the right toward the filter case end cap 2128. FIG. 27A it is a 2700A view of the tube 2234 as seen in Figure 22 and other figures of drawings just mentioned. Figure 27B is a view 2700B of the tube 2234 as seen in Figure 23A. Figure 27C is a view 2700C of tube 2234 of the tube from the other side of figure 27A. Figure 27D is a view 2700D of the tube 2234 from the other side of Figure 27B. Figure 27E is a top view 2700E of the tube and Figure 27F is a bottom view 2700F of the tube.

Figures 23A and 23D illustrate that the flange 2300 of the tube 2234 is press fitted into the filter case 2101. The tube 2234 is preferably made of a thermoplastic elastomer and is capable of deformation to an extent to be adjusted with pressure inside of box.

Figure 23D is an end view 2300D of the water filtration device absent the filter case end cap 2231 with the lever 2122 and the valve 2208 actuated and the water flowing from both the source head 2181, 21822 (second outlet of filtered water) and the first filtered water outlet 2236.

Figure 23B is a cross-sectional view 2300B similar to that of Figure 23 illustrating trajectories 2301, 2310 and 2310A of filtered water with lever 2122 and valve 2208 actuated. Figure 23C is an amplification of a part of Figure 23B. Figures 23B and 23C illustrate a flow divider as follows. The filtered water flows along the path indicated by the flow arrow 2301 around the gate 2241 as the water is ejected from the semi-conical portion 2238 where the arcuate surface 2242 secures the gate opening 2241. Simultaneously, the Lever 2122 under the influence of the hand of a person presses the plunger 2206 by pushing a valve 2208 out of the valve seat 2270 of a filter housing 2270 allowing the filtered water to be directed upwards along a path as indicated by Arrow 2310A in Figures 23B and 23C. When the lever 2122 has been depressed to its maximum extent the cover 2180 rests on the outside of the filter case 2101 which limits the displacement of the plunger 2206 and the valve 2208 leaving a gap 2250 of approximately 0.50 inches between the top 2234A of tube 2234 and bottom 2208A of valve 2208. The action of valve 2208 acts as a flow divider so some of the filtered water flow is expelled up through the second filtered water outlet as indicated in the direction of the flow arrow 2310A and some of the filtered water flow as indicated in the direction of the flow arrow 2310A and some of the filtered water flow is expelled through the first filtered water outlet through the tube 2234 Variations in water pressure will determine the amount of depression of lever 2122 and valve 2208. In other words, when the source water pressure is high, the lever and the valve do not have to be depressed to their maximum extent. Where the water source pressure is low the lever 2122 and the valve 2208 can be depressed more or at maximum to decrease the downstream flow of the tube and provide more flow to the source 2181/2182. Figure 23C indicates the maximum depression of the lever 2122 and of the valve 2208 where the upper portion 2208B of the valve 2208 is spaced apart from the valve seat 2270 by a relatively large amount compared to the spacing between the bottom 2208A of the valve. valve 2208 and top 2234A of tube 2234.

A method for making a water filtration device includes the steps of: attaching the end caps to a filter; insert the filter inside the filter box; Align the filter inside the filter box; inserting a hinge part of a gate into corresponding receptacles on one end of one of the end caps previously attached to the filter; inserting a part of a tube into an opening inside the filter box forming a first outlet; aligning the tube with respect to the end of one of the end caps previously fixed to the filter; attaching the filter box end cap to the filter box forming a chamber between a closed end of the filter box end cap and the filter end cap; and, fix a front box to the filter box. Additionally, the step of attaching the filter box end cap to the filter box includes the step of inter engaging the stops on the end cap of the filter box with protuberances on the filter end cap preventing rotation of the filter box. the filter end cap and the filter. Additionally, the method may include the steps of: inserting a plunger having a shoe into a second box outlet; place a boot valve on the shoe; insert a spring between the filter box and the plunger; and, fasten a pivot lever to the filter housing. Still further, the method may include the steps of: inserting a first rotatably adjustable member into the pivotable lever and the plunger; and inserting a second adjustably rotatable member into the first adjustably rotatable member.

The invention has been described here by way of example only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims that follow below.

Claims (47)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter that resides within said filter box; a water inlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; said filter box includes a first filtered water outlet and a second filtered water outlet; a tube having a conduit there; said tube in communication with said second outlet; a valve; said valve can move between a first position in contact with said second filtered outlet and a second position not in contact with said second filtered outlet.

2. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that the second position of the second valve is in proximity to said second filtered outlet and said valve is in proximity to said pipe of said pipe dividing the water flow between said first filtered water outlet and said second filtered water outlet.

3. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that said valve is an elastomeric material.

4. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that said valve is approximately 0.050 inches apart from said conduit of said tube when it is in the second position.

5. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 1, characterized in that said water filter is secured to a filter end cap and said box includes a filter box end cap; said filter end cap and said filter box end cap form a humid chamber; said filter end cap includes an opening from which the filtered water is expelled into said wet chamber and distributed through said tube to at least said second filtered water outlet.

6. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 2, characterized in that said water filter is secured to the filter end cap and said box includes a filter box end cap; said filter end cap and said filter box end cap form a humid chamber; said filter end cap includes an opening from which the filtered water is expelled into said wet chamber and distributed to said first filtered water outlet and through said tube to said second filtered water outlet.

7. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 5, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a first support for said tube.

8. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 7, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a second support, a third support and a fourth support for said tube.

9. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 6, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a first support for said tube.

10. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 9, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a second support, a third support and a fourth support for said tube.

11. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 5, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a hinge and a flow perception gate connected in the form of a pivot to said hinge that resides in the vicinity of said opening in a first position and swinging outwardly from said opening in the second position.

12. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 6, characterized in that said filter end cap includes a hinge and a flow sensing gate connected in the form of a pivot to said hinge residing in proximity to said opening in a first position and swinging outwardly from said opening in a second position.

13. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 11, characterized in that said flow sensing gate is axially offset to prevent said pipe.

1 . A water filtration device as claimed in clause 12, characterized in that said flow sensing gate is axially offset to prevent said tube.

15. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 11, characterized in that said flow sensing gate includes a first magnet fixed thereto and said filter end cap includes a second magnet attached thereto; a gate position sensor that senses flow resides externally to said end cap of said water filter box; said flow sensing gate position sensor being actuated when the flow sensing gate oscillates said second position and said first magnet is in proximity to said gate position sensor sensing the flow; and said first and second magnets are coupled to each other when said flow sensing gate is in a first position.

16. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 12, characterized in that said flow sensing gate includes a first magnet fixed thereto and said filter end cap includes a second magnet fixed thereto; a gate position sensor that senses the flow residing externally to said end cap of said water filter box; said flow sensing gate position sensor being actuated when said flow sensing gate oscillates to said second position and said first magnet is in proximity to said gate position sensor sensing the flow; and said first and second magnets are coupled to each other when said flow sensing gate is in said first position.

17. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter that resides within said filter box; a water inlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; said water passes through said filter expelling the filtered water; said filter box includes a first filtered water outlet and a second filtered water outlet; a tube having a conduit therethrough; a valve; said tube in communication with said first filtered water outlet extending upwardly therefrom terminating in proximity to said valve; said valve may move between a first position in contact with said second filtered outlet and a second position not in contact with said second filtered outlet and not impeding the flow through said conduit in said tube thereby dividing the flow of water between said first filtered water outlet and said second filtered outlet.

18. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 17, characterized in that said valve is approximately 0.050 inches apart from said conduit of said tube when it is in the second position.

19. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter that resides within said filter box; a water outlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; said filter box includes a filtered water outlet; a source head in communication with said filtered water outlet and expelling filtered water therefrom; said source head includes a first rotatably adjustable member that can rotate in an arc about a first axis and a second rotatably adjustable member that can rotate in an arc about a second axis; said first rotary member having a first conduit in communication with the filtered water outlet and said second rotary member having a second conduit in communication with said first conduit; said second rotating member having an exterior; said second conduit of said second rotating member being in communication with said exterior of said second rotary member for expulsion of the filtered water; and said first and second axes of said first and second rotating members being orthogonal so that said filtered water is expelled from said source head to a set and desired path.

20. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 19, characterized in that said filtered water outlet includes a valve seat; a valve interposed in said box and being operated against said valve seat of said filtered water outlet to control the outflow of the filtered water outlet; said valve includes a plunger and an elastomeric ball valve; said plunger includes a foot and said ball valve resides on said foot; said foot of said plunger and said elastomeric ball valve reside within said box; a spring interposed between said plunger and said filter box pushing said elastomeric ball valve against the valve seat of said filtered water outlet; and a handle fixed in a pivot to said box and engaging said plunger so that when said plunger is depressed against pushing said spring said elastomeric ball valve moves out of said valve seat of said filtered water outlet ejecting water from said source head.

21. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 20, characterized in that said handle fixed in the form of a pivot is rotated in an arc about a third axis, said third axis being orthogonal to said first and second axes in such a way that the filtered water is expelled from said source head to a set and desired path.

22. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter that resides within said filter box; a water inlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; a fountain head to expel filtered water from it; said source head being rotatably adjusted about two axes so that the filtered water is expelled from said source head to a set and desired path.

23. A filtration device as claimed in clause 22, characterized in that said source head is rotated adjustably about a third axis so that the filtered water is expelled from said source head to a set and desired path.

24. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter that resides within said filter box; a water inlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; said box includes a first filtered water outlet and a rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet in communication with said filter housing; a valve for controlling the amount of filtered water communicated to said rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet; said valve being a flow division valve that divides the flow of filtered water between said first filtered water outlet and said filtered water source head outlet rotatably adjusted; said valve that moves adjustably in a range of positions between a first position that prohibits the communication of the filtered water to said outlet of filtered water source rotatably adjusted and a second position that allows the maximum communication of filtered water to said outlet of said water. Adjustable filtered water source head rotating.

25. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 24, characterized in that said filter box includes a valve seat; a valve interposed in said box and which is operated against said valve seat to control the communication of filtered water to said rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet; said valve includes a plunger; a spring interposed between said plunger and said filter box pushing said valve to said first position against said valve seat; and a handle fixed in a pivot to said box and engaging said plunger so that said plunger is depressed against pushing said spring said valve moves out of said valve seat in a range of positions that controls the amount of water expelled from said source head.

26. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 24, characterized in that the rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet is rotated in two axes.

27. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 24, characterized in that said rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet is rotated in three axes.

28. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 25, characterized in that said rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet is rotated in two axes.

29. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 25, characterized in that said rotatable adjustable filtered water source head outlet is rotated in three axes.

30. A water filtration device comprising: a water filter box having an inlet and an outlet; said water filter box includes a box end cap attached thereto; a water filter contained not removably within said water filter box and secured to said filter end cap; a filter end cap fitted with pressure inside said water filter case; a humid chamber; said filter box end cap, said filter end cap, and said filter box define said chamber; said filter box end cap includes a first stop and a second stop; said filter end cap includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion; said first protrusion of said filter end cap interengages with said first stop of said filter box end cap; said second protrusion of said filter end cap interengaged with said second stop of said filter box end cap; said protuberances and stops prevent the rotational movement of said filter end cap and said filter; a conduit in said filter end cap that communicates water from said filter inside said chamber; a gate having a first magnet fixed to it resides in said chamber; said filter end cap includes a second magnet fixed thereto; said gate oscillates between a first position and a second position as a function of the force imparted thereto by said water as it is expelled from said conduit; a gate position sensor that resides in said end cap of said water filter box; said gate position sensor being operated when said gate oscillates to said second position and said magnet is in proximity to said sensor; and, said first and second magnets are coupled to each other when said gate is in said first position.

31. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 30, characterized in that said filter box end cap includes spacers and said filter box end cap and said filter end cap are spaced apart and separated by first and second spacers of said filter box end cap.

32. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 31, characterized in that said conduit through said filter end cap is off center.

33. A single use water filtration device comprising: a filter box and a water filter not removably affixed within said water box; a water inlet to admit the unfiltered water to said water filter; said filter box includes a first filtered water outlet and a second filtered water outlet; a tube having a conduit there, said tube in communication with said first outlet; a valve; said valve can move between a first position in contact with said second filtered outlet and a second position not in contact with said second filtered outlet.

34. A single use water filtration device as claimed in clause 33, characterized in that said tube is arched in three dimensions.

35. A single-use water filtration device as claimed in clause 34, characterized in that said tube is a thermoplastic elastomer.

36. A water source head comprising: a first member rotatably adjustable in communication with a water source; said first rotatably adjustable member engageable in sealed manner with said water source; said first rotatably adjustable member includes a first conduit there for communication of the water therethrough; a second rotary member that can be hooked in sealed manner with said first rotary member; and said second rotary member includes a second conduit there for the communication of the water therethrough and for being in communication with said first conduit in said first rotating member whereby the water is expelled therefrom to a set and desired trajectory.

37. A water source head as claimed in clause 36, characterized in that said first and second rotatably adjustable members are made of a thermoplastic elastomer.

38. A method for making a water filtration device comprising the steps of: fastening the end caps to a filter, - inserting said filter into a filter box; aligning said filter within said filter box; inserting a hinge part of a gate into the corresponding receptacles on one end of one of said end caps previously fixed to said filter; inserting a part of a tube into an opening within said filter box formed a first outlet; supporting said tube with respect to said one end of one of the end caps previously fixed to said filter; fixing said filter box end cap on said filter box forming a chamber between a closed end of said filter box end cap and said one end of said end caps; Y Fix a front box to said filter box.

39. A method for making a water filtration device as claimed in clause 38, characterized in that the step of fixing said filter box end cap to said filter box includes the step of interengaging the stops on said filter cover. end of said filter box with protuberances on one of said end caps preventing the rotation of one of said end caps and said filter.

40. A method for making a water filtration device as claimed in clause 39, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of: inserting a plunger having a shoe into a second box outlet; place a boot valve on said shoe; inserting a spring between said filter box and said plunger; Y hold a lever that can be pivoted to said filter box.

41. A method for making a water filtration device as claimed in clause 40, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: inserting a first member rotatably adjustable in said lever that can be pivoted and said plunger; Y inserting a second rotatably adjustable member into said first rotatably adjustable member.

42. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 11, characterized in that said gate includes a flow trap which actuates together with the flow of water expelled from the charge of said filter end cap in the placement of said water. gate.

43. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 12, characterized in that said gate includes a flow trap which acts in conjunction with the flow of water expelled from the discharge of said filter end cap in the placement of said water. gate.

44. A water filtration device comprising: a filter box, a filter not removably contained within said box; a filter end cap attached to said filter and having a conduit therethrough; said filter box having an inlet for the admission of unfiltered water to said filter; said filter filters the unfiltered water and expels it through said conduit in said filter end cap; said filter box includes an end cap fixed to said filter box and a first outlet for expulsion of the filtered water from said filter box; a tube having a conduit interconnected to said first outlet said filter end cap includes at least one spacer which interengages said filter end cap and spaced said filter end cap from said filter box end cap which together with the filter box they define a filtered water chamber; and a flow gate connected in the form of a pivot to said filter end cap that resides in said chamber in proximity to said conduit in said filter end cap from which the filtered water is expelled to place said gate when the filter is ejected. water filtered from said conduit in said filter end cap; said tube resides within said chamber; and, water enters said chamber from said conduit in said filter end cap passing through said tube and through said outlet.

45. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 44, characterized in that said filter box includes a second filtered water outlet and an operable valve between said second filtered water outlet and a proximity to but not engaging said interconnected pipe with said first outlet dividing the filtered water gate between said outlets as to control the water pressure expelled from said second filtered water outlet.

46. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 44, characterized in that it further comprises an adjustable rotating source head and wherein said filtered water outlet of said filter box communicates with the adjustable rotating source head.

47. A water filtration device as claimed in clause 45, characterized in that said source head is adjustable about two axes. SUMMARY Water filtration devices mounted on a long-lived, single-use water tap are described. A bathroom water filtration device is described which has two outlets for the filtered water. A rotating fountain head that can be adjusted in three axes is included for use in the bathroom water filtration device. The pressure control of the water expelled from the source head is controlled by a valve arrangement which divides the flow between the two filtered water outlets. The water filtration device is of a single body construction formed by the ultrasonic welding of certain parts thereof together. The filter head end cap includes the stops to ensure that the filter assembly does not rotate. Since the described devices are disposable, no other filter replacement or other maintenance is carried out. A gate, magnets, sensors and electronics provide an indication of filter performance allowing the disposal of the water filtration device and the installation of a new one. A kitchen water filtration device is larger than that of a bathroom. Both kitchen and bathroom water filtration devices are small and are mounted behind the faucet connection as to facilitate the full utilization of the sink or sink.