WO2026011222A1

WO2026011222A1 - Integrated sediment filtration system

Info

Publication number: WO2026011222A1
Application number: PCT/AU2025/050742
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pradeep Tandon
Original assignee: Waterco Ltd
Current assignee: Waterco Ltd
Priority date: 2024-07-12
Filing date: 2025-07-11
Publication date: 2026-01-15
Anticipated expiration: 2027-01-12

Abstract

The present invention provides an integrated sediment filtration system including a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid to be filtered and a multi-cyclone sediment filter comprising a cyclone cartridge having a plurality of conically shaped fluid cyclones, each having a small opening at a lower end and larger opening at an upper end such that the fluid cyclones are in fluid communication with the fluid inlet for receiving and filtering the received fluid. The integrated sediment filtration system further includes a cartridge filter in fluid communication with the multi-cyclone sediment filter for receiving outputted filtered fluid from the multi-cyclone sediment filter and further filtering the outputted filtered fluid and an integrated housing within which the multi-cyclone sediment filter and the cartridge filter are disposed, the housing defining the fluid inlet and including at least one fluid outlet.

Description

Integrated Sediment filtration system

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to sediment filtration systems, in particular, to integrated filtration systems to remove particulate debris from fluid.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Reference to any prior art in the specification is not an acknowledgment or suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be understood, regarded as relevant, and/or combined with other pieces of prior art by a skilled person in the art.

[0003] Cyclonic separators are used for separating unwanted debris from fluids, in particular liquids, by using centrifugal force. The liquid is typically injected obliquely into the cyclonic separator elements such that a circular flow is set up. The centrifugal forces act on the debris, which is more dense than the liquid in which it is suspended, forcing the denser material outwardly and toward the perimeter of the separation chamber. The conical shape of the separator elements does not allow the denser material to exit the top of the inverted cone. Instead, the substantially debris-free liquid surrounding the center of the vortex is extracted and re-circulated, while the debris is collected and discarded.

[0004] Some cyclonic separators are used in a component system in combination with a separate filter housing and a separate sludge receiver housing. These component systems require regular cleaning and changing of several housings and filter bags. This increases apparatus down time and the amount of inventory needed to maintain the system in working order.

[0005] Whilst they may be an improvement in comparison to other sediment filters, known filters using cyclonic separators may not remove all debris. In some cases a considerable amount of debris not removed during each pass through the filter is returned to the body of water. Object of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to substantially overcome or at least ameliorate one or more of the above disadvantages, or at least to provide a useful alternative.

Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an integrated liquid sediment filtration system including: a fluid inlet for receiving a liquid to be filtered; a multi-cyclone sediment filter comprising a cyclone cartridge having a plurality of conically shaped fluid cyclones, each having a small opening at a lower end and larger opening at an upper end such that the fluid cyclones are in fluid communication with the fluid inlet for receiving and filtering the received liquid; a cartridge filter in fluid communication with the multi-cyclone sediment filter for receiving outputted filtered liquid from the multi-cyclone sediment filter and further filtering the outputted filtered liquid; and an integrated housing within which the multi-cyclone sediment filter and the cartridge filter are disposed, the housing defining the fluid inlet and including at least one fluid outlet.

[0008] In an embodiment, the multi-cyclone sediment filter further comprises a diffuser plate sealingly connected to the cyclone cartridge, the diffuser plate including a plurality of diffuser tubes, each diffuser tube extending downwardly into an upper open portion of one of said fluid cyclones for receiving liquid from the fluid cyclones and for directing the liquid up and away from said diffuser plate and out of the multi-cyclone sediment filter;

[0009] In an embodiment, the housing includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion. In an embodiment, the lower housing portion including a sump for collecting sediment.

[0010] In an embodiment, the multi-cyclone sediment filter is disposed substantially within the lower housing portion.

[0011] In an embodiment, the lower housing portion includes a viewing window port radially disposed at a bottom end the lower housing portion.

[0012] In an embodiment, the multi-cyclone sediment filter includes a viewing window sealingly engaged with the viewing window port. [0013] In an embodiment, the lower housing portion defines the fluid inlet.

[0014] In an embodiment, the upper housing portion defines the at least one fluid outlet.

[0015] In an embodiment, the at least one fluid outlet is radially facing.

[0016] In an embodiment, the cyclone cartridge includes at least twelve cyclones. In an embodiment, the cyclone cartridge includes at least sixteen cyclones.

[0017] In an embodiment, each cyclone has open upper and lower ends, the lower end having the narrower opening, such that the cross-sectional area of the passage through each cyclone decreases from top to bottom.

[0018] In an embodiment, each cyclone decreases from top to bottom at an angle of between about 82 and 86 degrees.

[0019] In an embodiment, the lower end of each cyclone has an internal diameter of about 8.5mm to 9.5mm.

[0020] In an embodiment, the lower end of each cyclone terminates with a short tubular outlet. In an embodiment, the short tubular outlet is about 12mm to 18mm in length.

[0021] In an embodiment, each cyclone has a length along a longitudinal axis of about 140mm to 175mm.

[0022] In an embodiment, the plurality of cyclones are circumferentially disposed on a horizontal plane about cyclone cartridge. In an embodiment, the centres of each cyclone are on a pitch circle diameter of about 240mm to 280mm. In an embodiment, the cyclone cartridge has an overall outer diameter of about 325mm to 375mm.

[0023] In an embodiment, the outputted filtered liquid is received by the cartridge filter from the multi-cyclone sediment filter such that it is distributed uniformly to the cartridge filter.

[0024] By way of clarification and for avoidance of doubt, as used herein and except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further additions, components, integers or steps.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0025] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of specific example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an assembled integrated sediment filtration system;

FIG. IB is an alternate perspective view of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is a front view of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. ID is an exploded perspective view of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. IE is a cross-sectional side view of another embodiment of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. IF is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of a diffuser plate and a multi-cyclone sediment filter of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2B is an alternate exploded perspective view of the diffuser plate and the multi-cyclone sediment filter of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2C is a top view of a cyclone cartridge of the system of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2D is a cross-sectional side view of the cyclone cartridge of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of an assembled sediment filtration system;

FIG. 3B is a front view of the system of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of assembled integrated sediment filtration system;

FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of the system of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is a front view of one embodiment of the system of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4D is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 4C;

FIG. 4E is a front view of another embodiment of the system of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4F is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 4E; and

FIG. 5A is a side view of an alternate embodiment of assembled integrated sediment filtration system;

FIG. 5B is a front view of the system of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 5A; FIG. 5E is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the system of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6A is a side view of an alternate embodiment of an assembled integrated sediment filtration system;

FIG. 6B is a front view of the system of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6D is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A is a side view of an alternate embodiment of an assembled sediment filtration system;

FIG. 7B is a front view of the system of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional side view of the system of FIG. 7A;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the system of FIG. 1A shown in fluid communication with a valve actuator.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0026] Referring to the Figures, like reference numerals refer to like components in the various views. There is disclosed herein an integrated sediment filtration system 100. Whilst the invention may be applicable to use to filter fluids, preferred embodiments are primarily designed to be used to filter liquids, for example pool water or pond water.

[0027] Referring firstly to FIGS. 1A to IF, system 100, is depicted. System 100 includes an integrated plastics housing 102 having an upper housing portion 104 and a lower housing portion 106 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 106 includes a fluid inlet 108, preferably a tube radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 106 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 106. Fluid inlet 108 includes a threaded male end 110 which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 112 via a locking collar 114 having female threads complementary to the male end 110 of the fluid inlet tube 108 such that the female threads of locking collar 114 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of threaded male end 110.

[0028] Lower housing portion 106 also includes a decal 116. Decal 116 may include branding and/or specification information. [0029] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 106 in horizontal alignment with a drain tube 124 (and fluid inlet tube 108), there is a pair of radially opposed viewing window ports 118. Each window port 118 includes female threads configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of a respective viewing window 120. A sealing O-ring 122 is configured to provide a seal between each viewing window 120 and its respective window port 118 when their respective threads are engaged such that viewing windows 120 each sealingly abuts against its respective O-ring 122 which subsequently sealingly abuts against its respective window port 118. Viewing windows 120 allow visual inspection of any sediment or debris collected during filtration. In other embodiments, there may be only one viewing window port 118 (and associated viewing window 120).

[0030] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 106 is drain tube 124 having a threaded male end or discharge port 126 for connection to a drain outlet pipe 128 via a locking collar 130 such that female threads of locking collar 130 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of discharge port 126.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 8, drain outlet pipe 128 is attachable to a purge valve 802, by way of a valve pipe 802 for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 506. It will be appreciated that a user may visually inspect any sediment or debris collected during filtration and manually actuate purge valve 802 by way of turning valve tap 806 to drain the collected sediment and debris from system 500. In other embodiments, the draining by way of the purge valve is automated by way of a controller (not shown) such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[0032] Referring again to FIGS. 1A to IF, disposed within the bottom end of lower housing portion 106 is an annular plug 142. Plug 142 is sloped towards drain tube 124 so that any collected sediment and debris will be guided towards drain tube 124 (and can be seen through viewing windows 120).

[0033] System 100 includes a multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 that is, in use, disposed within lower housing portion 106. As best illustrated in FIGS. 2A to 2D, multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 includes a cyclone cartridge 146, including a plurality of vertically disposed inverted conical fluid cyclones 202 (it will be appreciated that not all instances of this feature are labelled in the figures to maintain clarity) having open upper and lower ends, the latter having the narrower openings, such that the cross-sectional area of the passage through each cyclone 202 decreases from top to bottom at an angle of between about 82 and 86 degrees, and preferably about 85 degrees. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, other degrees of change of diameter are used as appropriate, for example about 75 to about 88 degrees.

[0034] In this embodiment, there are sixteen cyclones 202. However, in other embodiments other than sixteen cyclones are present in cyclone cartridge 146, for example twelve cyclones. In some embodiments, there are between eight to twenty cyclones. In other embodiments there are more than twenty cyclones or less than eight cyclones. Cyclones 202 are evenly spaced on a constant pitch circle diameter. It will be appreciated that cyclone cartridges 146 are interchangeable, such that the user is able to switch between cyclone cartridges of different configurations, for example between a 12 cyclone cartridge and a 16 cyclone cartridge and vice versa depending on conditions.

[0035] Referring more specifically to FIG. 2D, cyclones 202 have a length along a longitudinal axis of about 140mm to 175mm, more preferably about 150mm to 158mm, and most preferably about 153.9mm. Referring again to FIGS. 2A to 2D, the internal diameter of the lower (narrow) end of each tapered cyclone 202 is about 8.5mm to 9.5mm and most preferably about 8.9mm. In other embodiments, each tapered cyclone 202 may be about 8mm to 10 mm. The lower (narrow) end of each cyclone 202 terminates with a short tubular outlet 204 which is between 12mm to 18 mm in length. In one example, tubular outlet 204 is about 15mm in length. The outlets 204 are not tapering, and have a generally constant diameter along its length, which provides more residence time within the cyclones for sediment to be trapped.

[0036] Cyclones 202 are circumferentially disposed on a horizontal plane about cartridge 146. The centres of cyclones 202 are on a pitch circle diameter of about 240mm to 280mm and preferably about 260mm. The overall outer diameter of cartridge 146 is about 325mm to 375mm and preferably about 350mm.

[0037] The central portion of the cyclone cartridge 146 includes a cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206 that is in fluid communication with fluid inlet 108 in the assembled apparatus. Cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206 includes a flared upper end 208 that encourages water under pressure and high velocity to move to a plurality of vortex openings 210 and through vortex channels 212 which extend to circular vortex ports 214 in fluid communication with the open upper ends of the inverted conical fluid cyclones 202 (it will be appreciated that not all instances of features 201, 212 and 214 are labelled in the figures to maintain clarity). [0038] There is also provided fastener arrangements 158 (in this case, a pair of fastener arrangements) for securing plug 142 to lower housing portion 106 in the illustrated orientation shown with respect to lower housing portion 106. This orientation promotes sediment being collected to accumulate close to drain tube 124. Further, an outer O-ring seal 148A is disposed in an annular groove 216 in the upper end of the fluid conduit and an inner O-ring seal 148B is disposed in a further annular groove 140 in the upper end of the fluid conduit to complete the seal with the cyclone cartridge inlet tube.

[0039] The upper edge of cyclone cartridge 146 includes an outwardly extending flange 218 that is seated upon an upward facing annular mounting formation 150 integrally formed from lower housing portion 106, and a seal is formed by an O-ring 152 sealingly disposed in abutting sealing engagement with both mounting formation 150 and a lower surface of flange 218. In some embodiments, either or both of mounting formation 150 and flange 218 includes an annular groove into which O-ring 152 is disposed.

[0040] Referring to FIGS. ID, IE, IF, 2A and 2B, multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 includes a generally planar diffuser plate, or manifold plate, 154. As best shown in FIG. 2A, a central hole 226 in diffuser plate 154 accommodates a diverter cone 228 which directs fluid flowing over it up and away from diffuser plate 154. Diverter cone 228 may be fastened to diffuser plate 154 but a cone cap 230. In other embodiments, diverter cone 228 and/or cone cap 230 may be omitted and central hole 226 may be occupied by a disc-like plug or some other means. Further, in embodiments where cone cap 230 is omitted, diverter cone 228 may include means for engaging with central hole 226, or will be otherwise held in place so as to provide a similar function to the illustrated embodiments.

[0041] Diffuser plate 154 also includes a plurality of diffuser tubes (vortex tubes) 220 extending downwardly from its underside, each tube is inserted into the upper portion of one the conical cyclones 202, the diffuser tubes having an outer diameter less than that of the upper diameter of the open upper end of the cyclones. Through a plurality of holes penetrating diffuser plate 154 bring the diffuser tubes 220 and the cyclones 202 into fluid communication with a space 156 within lower housing portion 106 above diffuser plate 154. When diffuser plate 154 is placed over cyclone cartridge 146, it creates a ceiling over cyclone cartridge 146 and restricts fluid flow paths through the cyclone cartridge, cooperating with cyclone cartridge 146 structure to create a manifold. The resultant structure limits the available flow path from the cartridge fluid inlet through cyclone cartridge to that of the plurality of vortex openings 210, vortex channels 212, and the vortex ports 214 to the cyclones 202, where sediment separation takes place during operation of system 100.

[0042] Diffuser plate 154 includes an outer flange portion 158 that has a circumference substantially the same as that of cyclone cartridge flange 218, such that on assembly, it is seated atop cyclone cartridge flange 218. In some embodiments, outer flange portion 158 also includes an annular groove into which O-ring 152 is disposed.

[0043] Referring to FIGS. ID, 2A and 2B, when assembled for use, cyclone cartridge 146, diffuser plate 154 and mounting formation 150 are secured to one another by moulded screws 160 (it will be appreciated that not all instances of this feature are labelled in the figures to maintain clarity) that pass through aligned apertures in each of outer flange portion 158, cyclone cartridge flange 218 and mounting formation 150. In the preferred embodiment, the screws 160 have a bolt style head. An O-ring 178 may also be used with moulded screw to secure cyclone cartridge 146 and diffuser plate 154. In other embodiments, screws 160 have a countersunk style head. It will be appreciated that various other embodiments will be such that screws 160 are other screws, bolts, or other such fasteners. Further, in some embodiments, screws 160 may only secure cyclone cartridge 146 and diffuser plate 154 and cyclone cartridge 146 will sit on mounting formation 150.

[0044] A generally cylindrical cartridge filter 162A is disposed within housing 102 extending within both upper housing portion 104 and lower housing portion 106. Cartridge filter 162A is a liquid cartridge filter. As best shown in FIG. IF, in use, cartridge filter 162A is downstream of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 such that the output from multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 is distributed uniformly around cartridge filter 162A. In other embodiments, the output of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 may not distribute its output uniformly around cartridge filter 162A. Cartridge filter 162A includes a porous exterior surface 164 configured to allow fluid to be permeated into cartridge filter 162A for filtration. Cartridge filter 162A further includes a central channel 196 extending axially into which fluid is directed from porous exterior surface 164.

[0045] Upstream of cartridge filter 162A is an internal outlet pipe 166 that is sealingly connected to the top end of central channel 196. Fluid that is filtered by cartridge filter 162A flows out of cartridge filter 162A into internal outlet pipe 166. In this embodiment, outlet pipe 166 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of internal outlet pipe 166 are at right angles to each other. This configuration facilitates the flow of fluid into internal outlet pipe 166 in an upward axial direction are then directed out in a sideways radial direction. Cartridge filter 162A may be about 250 sqft in size, or alternatively may be about 225 sqft, 200 sqft, 100 sqft, 90 sqft or another desired size depending on the amount of fluid such as liquid to be filtered. Further, in other embodiments, more than one cartridge filter (of the same or varying size) may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filters will be limited by the volume of housing 102 and the size of other components withing housing 102. For example, referring to FIG. IE, there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of system 100 that includes the same components as those illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 1A to ID and IF except for cartridge filter 162B in place of cartridge filter 162A. Cartridge filter 162B is generally housed within lower housing portion 106. In this embodiment, cartridge filter 162B is a liquid cartridge filter about 200 sqft in size. Aside from cartridge filter 162B, this embodiment includes the same components as the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. lA to ID and IF, although the size of internal outlet pipe 166 may be increased in size given the need to engage with the comparatively smaller cartridge filter 162B.

[0046] Referring again to FIGS. lA to IF, upper housing portion 104 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 106 by way of housing collar 168. More specifically, housing collar 168 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 104 such that it abuts with an upper housing flange 170 that is integrally formed with upper housing portion 104. Housing collar 168 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 172, integrally formed with housing collar 168, that house first clip elements 174 that extend downwardly from the wings 172. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 168 abuts upper housing flange 170, clip elements 174 may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of clip engagement elements 176 integrally formed with lower housing portion 106 such that upper housing portion 104 abutting ly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 106. This sealing engagement may be by way of an O-ring (not shown). Further, a collar O-ring 188 is, in use, sealingly abutingly engaged between housing collar 168 and upper housing flange 170.

[0047] As best shown in FIGS. IB and 1C, upper housing portion 104 also includes a pair of diametrically opposed lifting lugs 232A fastened to upper housing portion 104 by respective screws 232B that collectively secures housing collar 168 in place and thus further secures upper housing portion 104 and lower housing portion 106. In other embodiments, there may be other than two lifting lugs (and screws), for example one, three or four of each. Further, the lifting lugs may not be diametrically opposed and will be spaced apart in another configuration. [0048] Upper housing portion 104 includes a radial facing fluid outlet port 180. In use, internal outlet pipe 166 abuts against upper housing portion 104 about fluid outlet port 180 such that it is sealingly engaged by way of an O-ring 182A. Internal outlet pipe 166 is connected to an external outlet port 184 (which is received into fluid outlet port 180) such that females threads of internal outlet pipe 166 threadedly engage with first male threads 186 of external outlet port 184 such that external outlet port 184 sealingly engages with internal outlet pipe 166 by way of an O-ring 182B. O-ring 182B is disposed within external outlet port 184 for sealing fluid outlet port 180. It will be appreciated that internal outlet pipe 166, fluid outlet port 180 and external outlet port 184 may collectively be referred to as a fluid outlet.

[0049] External outlet port 184 also includes second male threads 190 such that external outlet port 184 connects to an external outlet pipe 192 a via a locking collar 194 such that female threads of locking collar 194 are configured to threadingly engage with second male threads 190. It will be appreciated that upper housing portion 104 may be rotated such that fluid outlet port 180 is orientated as desired depending on convenience of external connections to external outlet pipe 192. In that regard, internal outlet pipe 166 is rotatable such that it aligns with fluid outlet port 180 when upper housing portion 104 is rotated.

[0050] In other embodiments, fluid outlet port 180 (and hence external outlet port 184) may be other than radially facing, for example, axially facing (in this case, outlet pipe 166 may not be angled and instead may extend only in an upward axial direction).

[0051] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet tube 108 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. The liquid then continues through cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206 in an upwards direction, noting that fluid inlet tube 108 is, in use, disposed below cyclone cartridge 146. As it reaches flared upper end 208, the liquid flows radially outwardly, where it is further diverted by engagement with the structural elements of the cyclone cartridge 146, which creates restricted flow paths sending the liquid through the vortex openings 210, vortex channels 212, and vortex ports 214, where the liquid is then directed into the sides of the open upper ends of cyclones 202 and around the diffuser tubes 220 partially extending into cyclones 202. With this fluid path, liquid under constant pressure and continuous flow induces a fluid vortex in cyclones 202. The induced fluid vortex spins heavy sediment particles outwardly through centrifugal force, which then drop downwardly under the influence of gravity to the bottom of cyclones 202 and through outlets 204. The difference in size between the available outlets in the cyclones creates a pressure differential from top to bottom, and in contrast to heavy particles, the liquid proceeds through diffuser tubes 220 in an upwards direction and through holes penetrating diffuser plate 154. In FIGS. 2A and 2B there are illustrated arrows 222 and 224 that respectively indicate the direction of liquid flow into and out of (via diffuser plate 154) multicyclone sediment filter 144. The sediment continues to fall and eventually collects in the sump of lower housing portion 106. Meanwhile, the liquid that has been filtered by multicyclone sediment filter 144 is uniformly distributed out of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 and forced through porous exterior surface 164 into cartridge filter 162A. The liquid passing through cartridge filter 162A is filtered for the second time such that remaining sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within cartridge filter 162A. The liquid then flows into central channel 196 which directs the (now twice) filtered liquid into internal outlet pipe 166 in an upwards direction (noting that cyclone cartridge 146 is, in use, disposed below external outlet port 184) and finally out external outlet port 184.

[0052] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 104, is pressure gauge 198A for monitoring pressure within system 100 and an air release valve 198B for manually releasing pressure within system 100.

[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 3A to 3C, an alternate embodiment of a sediment filtration system, system 300, is depicted. System 300 includes an integrated plastics housing 302 having an upper housing portion 304 and a lower housing portion 306 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 306 includes a fluid inlet 308 radially disposed at the top end of lower housing portion 306 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 306. The fluid inlet 308 includes a threaded male end which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 312 via a locking collar 314 having female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid inlet tube 308 such that the female threads of locking collar 314 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid inlet 308. Disposed within fluid source tube 312 is an inlet baffle 310 in fluid inlet 308. Inlet baffle 310 may be fitted from inside of lower housing portion 306.

[0054] As best shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, lower housing portion 306 also includes a decal 348. Decal 348 may include branding and/or specification information.

[0055] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 306 in vertical alignment with inlet tube 308, is a fluid outlet 316 integrally formed with lower housing portion 306. The fluid outlet 316 includes a threaded male end which is connected to an outlet tube 318 via a locking collar 320. The locking collar 320 includes female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid outlet 316 such that the female threads of locking collar 320 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid outlet 316.

[0056] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 306 is a drain tube 322 having a threaded male end for connection to a drain outlet pipe 324 via a locking collar 326 such that female threads of locking collar 326 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of drain tube 322. In some embodiments, drain outlet pipe 324 is attachable to a purge valve (not shown) for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 306. It will be appreciated that a user may manually drain any collected sediment and debris from system 300. In some embodiments, the draining may be by way of a purge valve connected to and in fluid communication with drain outlet pipe 324. The purge valve may be automated such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[0057] Towards the top end of lower housing portion 306 and diametrically opposite fluid inlet 308 is a secondary port 332. In the present embodiment, port 332 is blocked off as it is not required for use. However, in other embodiments, port 332 is used as an alternate to fluid inlet 308. Secondary port 332 includes male threads and is connected to a secondary port tube 344 via a locking collar 346 having female threads complementary to the male threads of the port 332 such that the female threads of locking collar 346 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of port 332.

[0058] A generally cylindrical cartridge filter 330 is disposed within housing 302, and generally housed within lower housing portion 306. Cartridge filter 330 is a liquid cartridge filter. Cartridge filter 330 includes a porous exterior surface configured to allow liquid, which enters housing 302 via fluid inlet 308, to be permeated into cartridge filter 330 for filtration. Cartridge filter 330 further includes an axially extending central channel 334 into which fluid is directed from the porous exterior surface. In this embodiment, filter element 330 is of about 250 sqft in size. However, in other embodiments, filter element 330 may be of a different size, for example 200 sqft, 100 sqft or 90 sqft. Further, in other embodiments, more than one cartridge filter (of the same or varying size) may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filters will be limited by the volume of housing 302 and the size of other components withing housing 302. Central channel 334 is in fluid communication with fluid outlet 316 such that the fluid entering central channel 334 from the porous exterior surfaces of cartridge filter 330 exits central channel 334 towards fluid outlet 316.

[0059] In other words fluid outlet 316, upstream of cartridge filter 330, receives liquid that is filtered by cartridge filter 330 and flows out of cartridge filter 330 into outlet tube 318. In this embodiment, fluid outlet 316 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of fluid outlet 316 are at right angles to each other such that the flow of fluid in a downward axial direction is directed out in a sideways radial direction to outlet tube 318. A cartridge security element in the form of disc 352 are provided to secure cartridge filter 330 in place. In this case, disc 352 abutting ly engages cartridge filter 330. A rigid air release tube 354 is positioned within central channel 334 and held in place by disc 352. In other embodiments, air release tube 354 may not be rigid. Air release tube 354 provides a conduit within which air may flow between central channel 334 and the space within upper housing portion 304. Positioned contiguous with disc 352 and in axial alignment with central channel 334 is an extension fitting 356. Extension fitting 356 also engages with a complementary formation 358 on the inside of upper housing portion 304 such that it is able to hold disc 352 in place. It will be appreciated that in embodiments where larger cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 356 may be excluded and disc 352 may be held in place by upper housing portion 304, for example by complementary formation 358. Further, where smaller cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 356 may have a greater length or, alternatively, there may be more than one extension fitting as required to hold disc 352 in place against a cartridge filter.

[0060] Upper housing portion 304 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 306 by way of housing collar 336. More specifically, housing collar 336 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 304 and lower housing portion 306 such that upper housing portion 304 sealingly abuts lower housing portion 306. Housing collar 336 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 338, integrally formed with housing collar 336, that house first clip elements (not shown) that extend downwardly from the wings 338. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 336 abuts upper housing portion 304, the first clip elements may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of second clip elements (not shown) of lower housing portion 306 such that upper housing portion 304 abuttingly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 306. This sealing engagement may be affected by way of an O-ring (not shown).

[0061] As best shown in FIG. 3B, upper housing portion 304 also includes a pair of diametrically opposed lifting lugs 350A fastened to upper housing portion 304 by respective screws 350B that collectively secures housing collar 336 in place and thus further secures upper housing portion 304 and lower housing portion 306. In other embodiments, there may be other than two lifting lugs (and screws), for example one, three or four of each. Further, the lifting lugs may not be diametrically opposed and will be spaced apart in another configuration.

[0062] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 304, is pressure gauge 340 for monitoring pressure within system 300 and an air release valve 342 for manually releasing pressure within system 300.

[0063] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet 308 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. Inlet baffle 310 diffuses the incoming liquid such that it spreads the liquid about the entirety of the porous exterior surface of cartridge filter 330 to provide uniform filtration ad avoids direct impact of incoming liquid onto a single part of cartridge filter 330. The liquid is forced through the porous exterior surface into cartridge filter 330. The liquid passing through cartridge filter 330 is filtered such that sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within cartridge filter 330. The liquid then flows into central channel 334 which directs the filtered liquid downward into fluid outlet 316 and finally out outlet tube 318.

[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 4A to 4F, an alternate embodiment of an integrated sediment filtration system, system 400, is depicted. System 400 includes an integrated plastics housing 402 having an upper housing portion 404 and a lower housing portion 406 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 406 includes a fluid inlet 408 radially disposed at the top end of lower housing portion 406 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 406. The fluid inlet 408 includes a threaded male end which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 412 via a locking collar 414 having female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid inlet tube 408 such that the female threads of locking collar 414 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid inlet 408. Disposed within fluid source tube 412 is an inlet baffle 410 in fluid inlet 408. Inlet baffle 410 may be fitted from inside of lower housing portion 406.

[0065] As best shown in FIGS. 4A to 4C, lower housing portion 406 also includes a decal 460. Decal 460 may include branding and/or specification information.

[0066] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 406 in vertical alignment with inlet tube 408, is a fluid outlet 416 integrally formed with lower housing portion 406. The fluid outlet 416 includes a threaded male end which is connected to an outlet tube 418 via a locking collar 420. The locking collar 420 includes female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid outlet 416 such that the female threads of locking collar 420 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid outlet 416.

[0067] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 406, diametrically opposing fluid outlet 416, is a drain tube 422 having a threaded male end for connection to a drain outlet pipe 424 via a locking collar 426 such that female threads of locking collar 426 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of drain tube 422. In some embodiments, drain outlet pipe 424 is attachable to a purge valve (not shown) for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 406. The purge valve may be automated such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[0068] Also extending radially outwardly from the top end of lower housing portion 406, diametrically opposing fluid inlet 408, is a secondary port 452. In the present embodiment, port 452 is blocked off as it is not required for use. However, in other embodiments, ports 452 is used as an alternate to fluid inlet 408. Port 452 includes respective male threads and is connected to a secondary port tube 454 via a locking collar 456 having female threads complementary to the male threads of the port 452 such that the female threads of locking collar 456 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of port 452.

[0069] Referring specifically to FIGS. 4A to 4D, first and second generally cylindrical cartridge filters 430A and 432A are disposed in axial alignment with each other within housing 402. First and second generally cylindrical cartridge filters 430A and 432A are liquid cartridge filters. First filter 430A is generally housed within lower housing portion 406 whilst second filter 432A extends within both upper housing portion 404 and, to a comparatively lesser degree, lower housing portion 406. First and second filters 430A and 432A each include a porous exterior surface configured to allow liquid, which enters housing 402 via fluid inlet 408, to be permeated into each cartridge filter for filtration. First and second filters 430A and 432A each further include a central channel 434 extending axially into which liquid is directed from the porous exterior surface of each of first and second filters 430A and 432A. In this embodiment, first filter 430A is of about 250 sqft in size and second filter 432A is of about 100 sqft in size. However, in other embodiments, first and second filters 430A and 432A may be of a different size. Further, in other embodiments, other cartridge filters of the same or varying size may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filters will be limited by the volume of housing 402 and the size of other components withing housing 402. Central channel 434 is in fluid communication with fluid outlet 416 such that the liquid entering central channel 434 from the porous exterior surfaces of first and second filters 430A and 432A exits central channel 434 towards fluid outlet 416. For example, referring to FIGS. 4E and 4F, there is illustrated an alternate embodiment of system 400 that includes the same components as those illustrated in the embodiment of FIGS. 4A to 4D except for alternate first and second generally cylindrical cartridge filters 430B and 432B in place of first and second filters 430A and 432A. First filter 430B is generally housed within lower housing portion 406 whilst second filter 432B extends within both upper housing portion 404 and lower housing portion 406. In this embodiment, first filter 430B is of about 200 sqft in size and second filter 432B is of about 100 sqft in size. Aside from alternate first and second filters 430B and 432B, this embodiment includes the same components as the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4D.

[0070] Referring again to FIGS. 4A to 4F, fluid outlet 416, upstream of first and second filters 430A and 432A, receives liquid that is filtered by first and second filters 430A and 432A and flows out of first and second filters 430A and 432A into outlet tube 418. In this embodiment, fluid outlet 416 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of fluid outlet 416 are at right angles to each other such that the flow of liquid in a downward axial direction is directed out in a sideways radial direction to outlet tube 418. A pair of cartridge security elements in the form of discs 444A and 444B are provided to secure first and second filters 430A and 432A in place. In this case, disc 444A abuttingly engages second filter 432A. Disc 444B is in used positioned intermediate first and second filters 430A and 432A. A rigid air release tube 446 is positioned within central channel 434 and held in place by disc 444A. In other embodiments, air release tube 446 may not be rigid. Air release tube 446 provides a conduit within which air may flow between central channel 434 and the space within upper housing portion 404. Positioned contiguous with disc 444A and in axial alignment with central channel 434 is an extension fitting 448. Extension fitting 448 also engages with a complementary formation 458 on the inside of upper housing portion 404 such that it is able to hold disc 444A in place. It will be appreciated that in embodiments where larger cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 448 may be excluded and disc 444A may be held in place by upper housing portion 404, for example by complementary formation 458. Further, where smaller cartridge filters are used such as in the embodiment of FIGS. 4E and 4F, extension fitting 748 may have a greater length as is illustrated or, alternatively, there may be more than one extension fitting as required (say, the size of that in FIGS. 4C and 4D) to hold disc 444A in place against a cartridge filter.

[0071] Upper housing portion 404 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 406 by way of a housing collar 436. More specifically, housing collar 436 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 404 and lower housing portion 406 such that upper housing portion 404 sealingly abuts lower housing portion 406. Housing collar 436 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 438, integrally formed with housing collar 436, that house clip elements 428A that extend downwardly from the wings 438. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 436 abuts upper housing portion 404, clip elements 428A may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of clip engagement elements 428B of lower housing portion 406 such that upper housing portion 404 abuttingly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 406. This sealing engagement may be affected by way of an O-ring 488.

[0072] As best shown in FIGS. 4B, 4C, and 4E, upper housing portion 404 also includes a pair of diametrically opposed lifting lugs 450A fastened to upper housing portion 404 by respective screws 450B that collectively secures housing collar 436 in place and thus further secures upper housing portion 404 and lower housing portion 406. In other embodiments, there may be other than two lifting lugs (and screws), for example one, three or four of each. Further, the lifting lugs may not be diametrically opposed and will be spaced apart in another configuration.

[0073] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 404, is pressure gauge 440 for monitoring pressure within system 400. There is further included on the top of the domeshaped upper housing portion 404 an air release valve 442 for manually releasing pressure within system 400.

[0074] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet 408 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. Inlet baffle 410 diffuses the incoming liquid such that it spreads the liquid about the entirety of the porous exterior surfaces of first and second filters 430A and 432A to provide uniform filtration ad avoids direct impact of incoming liquid onto a single part of first filter 430A (or alternate first and second filters 430B and 432B in the embodiment of FIGS. 4E and 4F). The liquid is forced through the porous exterior surface into first and second filters 430A and 432A. The liquid passing through first and second filters 430A and 432A is filtered such that sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within first and second filters 430A and 432A. The liquid then flows into central channel 434 which directs the filtered liquid downward into fluid outlet 416 and finally out outlet tube 418.

[0075] Embodiments described herein are advantageous over known filtration systems, particularly as used for filtering liquids. Embodiments described herein include modular components that are interchangeable depending on the specific filtration requirements. As shown in the embodiments provided, the filter elements (that is, multi-cyclone sediment filter and cartridge filters) may be interchanged to provide the required filtration, by adding or removing multi-cyclone sediment filter, and by adding or removing cartridge filters of various sizes. Further, other components such as different upper and/or lower housing portions may be interchanged. For example, referring to the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3A to 3C and the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 4A to 4F, respective lower housing portions 306 and 406 are essentially identical. However, respective upper housing portions 304 and 404 are of different sizes as required to be space efficient and allow for the respective internal components. That is, first and second filters 430A and 432A or alternate first and second filters 430B and 432B require comparatively more space and thus require a comparatively bigger upper housing portion 404 whereas the one cartridge filter 330 requires comparatively less space and thus have a comparatively smaller upper housing portion 304.

[0076] Referring now to FIGS. 5A to 5E, an alternate embodiment of an integrated sediment filtration system, system 500 includes an integrated plastics housing 502 having an upper housing portion 504 and a lower housing portion 506 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 506 includes a fluid inlet 508, preferably a tube radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 506 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 506. The fluid inlet 508 includes a threaded male end 510 which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 512 via a locking collar 514 having female threads complementary to the male end 510 of the fluid inlet tube 508 such that the female threads of locking collar 514 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of threaded male end 510.

[0077] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 506 just above and in vertical alignment with a drain tube 524, there is a viewing window port 518. Window port 518 includes female threads configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of a viewing window 520. A sealing O-ring 522 is configured to provide a seal between viewing window 520 and window port 518 when their respective threads are engaged such that viewing window 520 sealingly abuts against O-ring 522 which subsequently sealingly abuts against window port 518. Viewing window 520 allows visual inspection of any sediment or debris collected during filtration.

[0078] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 506 is drain tube 524 having a threaded male end or discharge port 526 for connection to a drain outlet pipe 528 via a locking collar 530 such that female threads of locking collar 530 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of discharge port 526. In some embodiments, drain outlet pipe 528 is attachable to a purge valve (not shown) for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 506. It will be appreciated that a user may visually inspect any sediment or debris collected during filtration and manually actuate the purge valve to drain the collected sediment and debris from system 500. In some embodiments, the draining by way of the purge valve is automated such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[0079] Towards the top end of lower housing portion 506 is a pair of secondary ports 532 and 534. In the present embodiment, ports 532 and 534 are blocked off as they are not required for use. However, in other embodiments described below, ports 532 and 534 are used as an alternate to fluid inlet 508. Secondary ports 532 and 534 both include respective male threads. Port 534 is connected to a secondary port tube 536 via a locking collar 538 having female threads complementary to the male threads of the port 534 such that the female threads of locking collar 538 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of port 534. Disposed within port tube 536 is an inlet baffle 540 in port 534. Inlet baffle 540 may be fitted from inside of lower housing portion 506.

[0080] Disposed within the bottom end of lower housing portion 506 is a generally annular plug 542. Plug 542 is sloped towards drain tube 524 so that any collected sediment and debris will be guided towards viewing window 520.

[0081] System 500 includes a multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 (equivalent to the feature described above in other embodiments) that is disposed within lower housing portion 506. Multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 includes central portion of the cyclone cartridge 146 includes a cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206 that is in fluid communication with fluid inlet 508 in the assembled apparatus. This fluid communication may be facilitated by a conduit (not shown) in annular plug 542 through which fluid such as a liquid may pass, where one end of the conduit is sealingly engaged with cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206.

[0082] An O-ring seal 548 is disposed in an annular groove 216 in the upper end of the fluid conduit to complete the seal with the cyclone cartridge inlet tube.

[0083] The upper edge of cyclone cartridge 146 includes an outwardly extending flange 218 that is seated upon an upward facing annular mounting formation 550 integrally formed from lower housing portion 506, and a seal is formed by an O-ring 552 sealingly disposed in abutting sealing engagement with both mounting formation 550 and a lower surface of flange 218. In some embodiments, either or both of mounting formation 550 and flange 218 includes an annular groove into which O-ring 552 is disposed.

[0084] Referring to FIGS. 5D, 5E, 2A and 2B, the upper edge of cyclone cartridge 146 includes an outwardly extending flange 218 that is seated upon an upward facing annular mounting formation 550 integrally formed from lower housing portion 506, and a seal is formed by an O-ring 552 sealingly disposed in abutting sealing engagement with both mounting formation 550 and a lower surface of flange 218. In some embodiments, either or both of mounting formation 550 and flange 218 includes an annular groove into which O- ring 552 is disposed.

[0085] Multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 includes a generally planar diffuser plate, or manifold plate, 554 (that may be taken as equivalent to and thus including all features of diffuser plate 154). A plurality of holes penetrating diffuser plate 554 bring the diffuser tubes 220 and the cyclones 202 into fluid communication with a space 556 within lower housing portion 506 above diffuser plate 554. When diffuser plate 554 is placed over cyclone cartridge 146, it creates a ceiling over cyclone cartridge 146 and restricts fluid flow paths through the cyclone cartridge, cooperating with cyclone cartridge 146 structure to create a manifold. The resultant structure limits the available flow path from the cartridge fluid inlet through cyclone cartridge to that of the plurality of vortex openings 210, vortex channels 212, and the vortex ports 214 to the cyclones 202, where sediment separation takes place during operation of system 500.

[0086] As with diffuser plate 154, diffuser plate 554 includes an outer flange portion 158 that has a circumference substantially the same as that of cyclone cartridge flange 218, such that on assembly, it is seated atop cyclone cartridge flange 218. In some embodiments, outer flange portion 158 also includes an annular groove into which O-ring 552 is disposed. A diverter cone 228 (equivalent to the feature described above in other embodiments) is provided which directs fluid flowing over it up and away from diffuser plate 554.

[0087] When assembled for use, cyclone cartridge 146, diffuser plate 554 and mounting formation 550 are secured to one another by moulded screws 560 that pass through aligned apertures in each of outer flange portion 158, cyclone cartridge flange 218 and mounting formation 550. In the preferred embodiment, the screws 560 have a bolt style head. An O- ring 578 may also be used with moulded screw to secure cyclone cartridge 146 and diffuser plate 554. In other embodiments, screws 560 have a countersunk style head. It will be appreciated that various other embodiments will be such that screws 560 are other screws, bolts, or other such fasteners. Further, in some embodiments, screws 560 may only secure cyclone cartridge 146 and diffuser plate 554 and cyclone cartridge 146 will sit on mounting formation 550.

[0088] Referring specifically to FIGS. 5D and 5E, a generally cylindrical cartridge filter 562 disposed within housing 502 extending within both upper housing portion 504 and lower housing portion 506. Cartridge filter 562 is a liquid cartridge filter. Cartridge filter 562 is in fluid communication with multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 for receiving outputted filtered liquid from multi-cyclone sediment filter 144. As best shown in FIG. 5D, in use, cartridge filter 562 is downstream of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 such that the output from multicyclone sediment filter 144 is distributed uniformly around cartridge filter 562. In other embodiments, the output of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 may not distribute its output uniformly around cartridge filter 562. Cartridge filter 562 includes a porous exterior surface 564 configured to allow fluid to be permeated into cartridge filter 562 for filtration. Cartridge filter 562 further includes a central channel 596 extending axially into which fluid is directed from porous exterior surface 564.

[0089] Upstream of cartridge filter 562 is an internal outlet pipe 566 that is sealingly connected to the top end of central channel 596. Fluid such as a liquid that is filtered by cartridge filter 562 flows out of cartridge filter 562 into internal outlet pipe 566. In this embodiment, internal outlet pipe 566 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of outlet pipe 566 are at right angles to each other such that the flow of liquid into internal outlet pipe 566 in an upward axial direction is directed out in a sideways radial direction. Cartridge filter 562 may be about 250 sqft in size, or alternatively may be about 250 sqft, 225 sqft, 100 sqft, 90 sqft or another desired size depending on the amount of liquid to be filtered. Further, in other embodiments, more than one cartridge filter (of the same or varying size) may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filter will be limited by the volume of housing 502 and the size of other components withing housing 502.

[0090] Upper housing portion 504 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 506 by way of housing collar 568. More specifically, housing collar 568 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 504 such that it abuts with an upper housing flange 570 that is integrally formed with upper housing portion 504. Housing collar 568 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 572, integrally formed with housing collar 568, that house first clip elements 574 that extend downwardly from the wings 572. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 568 abuts upper housing flange 570, first clip elements 574 may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of second clip elements 576 integrally formed with lower housing portion 506 such that upper housing portion 504 abuttingly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 506 by way of O-ring 588. Upper housing portion 504 also includes a lifting lug 598A fastened to upper housing portion 504 by a screw 598B that secures housing collar 568 in place and thus further secures upper housing portion 504 and lower housing portion 506. Further, as shown in FIG. 5A, there may be a plurality of lifting lugs 598A and screws 598B, for example two, three (as shown in FIG. 5A) or four of each.

[0091] Upper housing portion 504 includes a radial facing fluid outlet port 580. In use, internal outlet pipe 566 abuts against upper housing portion 504 about fluid outlet port 580 such that it is sealingly engaged by way of an O-ring 582A. Internal outlet pipe 566 is connected to an external outlet port 584 (which is received into fluid outlet port 580) such that females threads of internal outlet pipe 566 threadedly engage with first male threads 586 of external outlet port 584 such that external outlet port 584 sealingly engages with internal outlet pipe 566 by way of an O-ring 582B. O-ring 582B is disposed within external outlet port 584 for sealing fluid outlet port 580. It will be appreciated that internal outlet pipe 566, fluid outlet port 580 and external outlet port 584 may collectively be referred to as a fluid outlet.

[0092] External outlet port 584 also includes second male threads 590 such that external outlet port 584 connects to an external outlet pipe 592 a via a locking collar 594 such that female threads of locking collar 594 are configured to threadingly engage with second male threads 590. It will be appreciated that upper housing portion 504 may be rotated such that fluid outlet port 580 is orientated as desired depending on convenience of external connections to external outlet pipe 592. In that regard, internal outlet pipe 566 is rotatable such that it aligns with fluid outlet port 580 when upper housing portion 504 is rotated.

[0093] In other embodiments, fluid outlet port 580 (and hence external outlet port 584) may be other than radially facing, for example, axially facing (in this case, outlet pipe 566 may not be angled and instead may extend only in an upward axial direction).

[0094] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet tube 508 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. The liquid then continues through cyclone cartridge inlet tube 206 in an upwards direction, noting that fluid inlet tube 508 is, in use, disposed below cyclone cartridge 146. As it reaches flared upper end 208, the liquid flows radially outwardly, where it is further diverted by engagement with the structural elements of the cyclone cartridge 146, which creates restricted flow paths sending the liquid through the vortex openings 210, vortex channels 212, and vortex ports 214, where the liquid is then directed into the sides of the open upper ends of cyclones 202 and around the diffuser tubes 220 partially extending into cyclones 202. With this fluid path, liquid under constant pressure and continuous flow induces a fluid vortex in cyclones 202. The induced fluid vortex spins heavy sediment particles outwardly through centrifugal force, which then drop downwardly under the influence of gravity to the bottom of cyclones 202 and through outlets 204. The difference in size between the available outlets in the cyclones creates a pressure differential from top to bottom, and in contrast to heavy particles, the liquid proceeds through diffuser tubes 220 in an upwards direction and through holes penetrating diffuser plate 554. In FIGS. 2A and 2B there are illustrated arrows 222 and 224 that respectively indicate the direction of liquid flow into and out of (via diffuser plate 554) multicyclone sediment filter 144. The sediment continues to fall and eventually collects in the sump of lower housing portion 506. Meanwhile, the liquid that has been filtered by multicyclone sediment filter 144 is uniformly distributed out of multi-cyclone sediment filter 144 and forced through porous exterior surface 564 into cartridge filter 562. The liquid passing through cartridge filter 562 is filtered for the second time such that remaining sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within cartridge filter 562. The liquid then flows into central channel 596 which directs the (now twice) filtered liquid into internal outlet pipe 566 in an upwards direction (noting that cyclone cartridge 146 is, in use, disposed below external outlet port 584) and finally out external outlet port 584. [0095] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 504, is pressure gauge 200A for monitoring pressure within system 500 and an air release valve 200B for manually releasing pressure within multi-cyclone sediment filter 100.

[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 6A to 6D, an alternate embodiment of an integrated sediment filtration system, system 600, is depicted. System 600 includes an integrated plastics housing 602 having an upper housing portion 604 and a lower housing portion 606 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 606 includes a fluid inlet 608 radially disposed at the top end of lower housing portion 606 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 606. The fluid inlet 608 includes a threaded male end which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 612 via a locking collar 614 having female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid inlet tube 608 such that the female threads of locking collar 614 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid inlet 608. Disposed within fluid source tube 612 is an inlet baffle 644 in fluid inlet 608. Inlet baffle 644 may be fitted from inside of lower housing portion 606.

[0097] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 606 in vertical alignment with inlet tube 608, is a fluid outlet 616 integrally formed with lower housing portion 606. The fluid outlet 616 includes a threaded male end which is connected to an outlet tube 3618 via a locking collar 620. The locking collar 620 includes female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid outlet 616 such that the female threads of locking collar 620 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid outlet 616.

[0098] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 606 is a drain tube 622 having a threaded male end for connection to a drain outlet pipe 624 via a locking collar 626 such that female threads of locking collar 626 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of drain tube 622. In some embodiments, drain outlet pipe 624 is attachable to a purge valve (not shown) for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 606.

[0099] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 606 just above and in vertical alignment with fluid outlet 616, there is a viewing window port 610. Window port 610 houses a viewing window 628. A sealing O-ring (not shown) may be configured to provide a seal between viewing window 628 and window port 610. It will be appreciated that a user may, via viewing window 628, visually inspect any sediment or debris collected during filtration and manually drain the collected sediment and debris from system 600. In some embodiments, the draining may be by way of a purge valve connected to and in fluid communication with drain outlet pipe 624. The purge valve may be automated such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[00100] First and second generally cylindrical cartridge filters 630 and 632 are disposed in axial alignment with each other within housing 602. First and second generally cylindrical cartridge filters 630 and 632 are liquid cartridge filters. First filter 630 is generally housed within lower housing portion 606 whilst second filter 632 extends within both upper housing portion 604 and lower housing portion 606. First and second filters 630 and 632 each include a porous exterior surface configured to allow liquid, which enters housing 602 via fluid inlet 608, to be permeated into each cartridge filter for filtration. First and second filters 630 and 632 each further include a central channel 634 extending axially into which liquid is directed from the porous exterior surface. In this embodiment, first filter 630 is of about 225 or 250 sqft in size and second filter 632 is of about 100 or 90 sqft in size. However, in other embodiments, first and second filters 630 and 632 may be of a different size. Further, in other embodiments, cartridge filters of the same or varying size may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filters will be limited by the volume of housing 602 and the size of other components withing housing 602. Central channel 634 is in fluid communication with fluid outlet 616 such that the liquid entering central channel 634 from the porous exterior surfaces of cartridge filters 630 and 632 exits central channel 634 towards fluid outlet 616.

[00101] In other words fluid outlet 616, upstream of first and second filters 630 and 632, receives liquid that is filtered by first and second filters 630 and 632 and flows out of first and second filters 630 and 632 into outlet tube 618. In this embodiment, fluid outlet 616 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of fluid outlet 616 are at right angles to each other such that the flow of liquid in a downward axial direction is directed out in a sideways radial direction to outlet tube 618. A cartridge security element in the form of extension fitting 656 is provided to secure second filter 632 in place. In this case, extension fitting 656 sits within channel 634 and abuttingly engages the inner part of second filter 632. Extension fitting 656 also engages with a complementary formation 658 on the inside of upper housing portion 604 such that it is able to secure second filter 632 in place. It will be appreciated that in embodiments where larger cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 656 may be excluded and second filter 632 may be held in place by upper housing portion 604, for example by complementary formation 658. Further, where smaller cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 656 may have a greater length or, alternatively, there may be more than one extension fitting as required to hold second filter 632 in place.

[00102] Upper housing portion 604 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 606 by way of housing collar 636. More specifically, housing collar 636 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 604 and lower housing portion 606 such that upper housing portion 604 sealingly abuts lower housing portion 606. Housing collar 636 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 638, integrally formed with housing collar 636, that house first clip elements (not shown) that extend downwardly from the wings 638. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 636 abuts upper housing portion 604, the first clip elements may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of second clip elements (not shown) of lower housing portion 606 such that upper housing portion 604 abuttingly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 606. This sealing engagement may be affected by way of an O-ring (not shown).

[00103] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 604, is pressure gauge 640 for monitoring pressure within system 600 and an air release valve 642 for manually releasing pressure within system 600.

[00104] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet 608 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. Inlet baffle 644 diffuses the incoming liquid such that it spreads the liquid about the entirety of the porous exterior surfaces of first and second filters 630 and 632 to provide uniform filtration ad avoids direct impact of incoming liquid onto a single part of first filter 630. The liquid is forced through the porous exterior surface into first and second filters 630 and 632. The liquid passing through first and second filters 630 and 632 is filtered such that sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within first and second filters 630 and 632. The liquid then flows into central channel 634 which directs the filtered liquid downward into fluid outlet 616 and finally out outlet tube 618.

[00105] Referring now to FIGS. 7A to 7D, an alternate embodiment of a sediment filtration system, system 700, is depicted. System 700 includes an integrated plastics housing 702 having an upper housing portion 704 and a lower housing portion 706 having a sediment bowl or sump for collecting sediment. Lower housing portion 706 includes a fluid inlet 708 radially disposed at the top end of lower housing portion 706 and integrally formed with lower housing portion 706. The fluid inlet 708 includes a threaded male end which is connected to a pressurized fluid source through a fluid source tube 712 via a locking collar 714 having female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid inlet 708 such that the female threads of locking collar 714 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid inlet 708. Disposed within fluid source tube 712 is an inlet baffle 744 in fluid inlet 708. Inlet baffle 744 may be fitted from inside of lower housing portion 706.

[00106] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 706 in vertical alignment with inlet tube 708, is a fluid outlet 716 integrally formed with lower housing portion 706. The fluid outlet 716 includes a threaded male end which is connected to an outlet tube 718 via a locking collar 720. The locking collar 720 includes female threads complementary to the male end of the fluid outlet 716 such that the female threads of locking collar 720 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of fluid outlet 716.

[00107] Also extending radially outwardly from the bottom end of lower housing portion 706 is a drain tube 722 having a threaded male end for connection to a drain outlet pipe 724 via a locking collar 726 such that female threads of locking collar 726 are configured to threadingly engage with corresponding male threads of drain tube 722. In some embodiments, drain outlet pipe 724 is attachable to a purge valve (not shown) for facilitating selective draining the sump of lower housing portion 706.

[00108] Radially disposed at the bottom end of lower housing portion 706 just above and in vertical alignment with fluid outlet 716, there is a viewing window port 710. Window port 710 houses a viewing window 728. A sealing O-ring (not shown) may be configured to provide a seal between viewing window 728 and window port 710. It will be appreciated that a user may, via viewing window 728, visually inspect any sediment or debris collected during filtration and manually drain the collected sediment and debris from system 700. In some embodiments, the draining may be by way of a purge valve connected to and in fluid communication with drain outlet pipe 724. The purge valve may be automated such that draining will occur at regular time intervals, and/or in response to a sensor that monitors the collected sediment and debris.

[00109] A generally cylindrical cartridge filter 730 is disposed within housing 702, and generally housed within lower housing portion 706. Cartridge filter 730 is a liquid cartridge filter. Cartridge filter 730 includes a porous exterior surface configured to allow liquid, which enters housing 702 via fluid inlet 708, to be permeated into cartridge filter 730 for filtration. Cartridge filter 730 further includes an axially extending central channel 734 into which liquid is directed from the porous exterior surface. In this embodiment, cartridge filter 730 is of about 250 sqft in size. However, in other embodiments, cartridge filter 730 may be of a different size, for example 200 sqft, 100 sqft or 90 sqft. Further, in other embodiments, more than one cartridge filter (of the same or varying size) may be utilised. However, the number and size of cartridge filters will be limited by the volume of housing 702 and the size of other components withing housing 702. Central channel 734 is in fluid communication with fluid outlet 716 such that the liquid entering central channel 734 from the porous exterior surfaces of cartridge filter 730 exits central channel 734 towards fluid outlet 716.

[00110] In other words fluid outlet 716, upstream of cartridge filter 730, receives liquid that is filtered by cartridge filter 730 and flows out of cartridge filter 730 into outlet tube 718. In this embodiment, fluid outlet 716 includes an angled pipe such that the ends of fluid outlet 716 are at right angles to each other such that the flow of liquid in a downward axial direction is directed out in a sideways radial direction to outlet tube 718. A cartridge security element in the form of extension fitting 758 are provided to secure cartridge filter 730 in place. In this case, extension fitting 758 sits within channel 734 and abutting ly engages the inner part of cartridge filter 730. Extension fitting 758 also engages with a complementary formation 760 on the inside of upper housing portion 704 such that it is able to secure cartridge filter 730 in place. It will be appreciated that in embodiments where larger cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 758 may be excluded and cartridge filter 730 may be held in place by upper housing portion 704, for example by complementary formation 760. Further, where smaller cartridge filters are used, extension fitting 758 may have a greater length or, alternatively, there may be more than one extension fitting as required to hold cartridge filter 730 in place.

[00111] Upper housing portion 704 is dome-shaped and is fastened to lower housing portion 706 by way of housing collar 736. More specifically, housing collar 736 is configured to fit over upper housing portion 704 and lower housing portion 706 such that upper housing portion 704 sealingly abuts lower housing portion 706. Housing collar 736 further includes a pair of diametrically opposed radially extending wings 738, integrally formed with housing collar 736, that house first clip elements (not shown) that extend downwardly from the wings 738. The arrangement is such that once housing collar 736 abuts upper housing portion 704, the first clip elements may be brought into locking engagement with an opposing pair of second clip elements (not shown) of lower housing portion 706 such that upper housing portion 704 abuttingly sealingly engages with lower housing portion 706. This sealing engagement may be affected by way of an O-ring (not shown).

[00112] At the top of the dome-shaped upper housing portion 704, is pressure gauge 738 for monitoring pressure within system 700 and an air release valve 740 for manually releasing pressure within system 700.

[00113] Fluid in the form of a liquid (typically pool or pond water) is introduced through the fluid inlet 708 from a pressurized source, such as a pump. Inlet baffle 744 diffuses the incoming liquid such that it spreads the liquid about the entirety of the porous exterior surface of cartridge filter 730 to provide uniform filtration ad avoids direct impact of incoming liquid onto a single part of cartridge filter 730. The liquid is forced through the porous exterior surface into cartridge filter 730. The liquid passing through cartridge filter 730 is filtered such that sediment and debris in the liquid may be trapped and collected within cartridge filter 730. The liquid then flows into central channel 734 which directs the filtered liquid downward into fluid outlet 716 and finally out outlet tube 718.

[00114] It will be appreciated that known sand filters are bulky and require filling with media, that is cumbersome and time consuming. Embodiments described herein are space efficient whereby the integrated plastics housing provides a smaller footprint. Embodiments described herein do not require filling with media.

[00115] Advantageously, embodiments with both multi-cyclone sediment filter and cartridge filter prolong the life of the liquid cartridge filter. The multi-cyclone sediment filter is able to filter around 85% to 90% of sediment from incoming liquid or around 87% of sediment at flow rates of 340 L/m or more, which means a very small percentage of sediment will pass through the cartridge filter. Thus, this reduces the filtration load on the cartridge filter. Therefore, the cleaning and other maintenance of cartridge filter is required far less frequently and the life of the cartridge filter will be prolonged. Further, liquid from multicyclone sediment filter is uniformly distributed when fed to the cartridge filter following initial filtration. Therefore, the filtration load on the cartridge is uniform which again will prolong the life of the cartridge.

[00116] The embodiments described here provide for rapid parts replacement and maintenance, particularly with respect to the multi-cyclone sediment filter or cartridge filters. This is accomplished by disconnecting any external outlet port at the upper housing and then removing any lug and screw and disengaging first clip elements from second clip elements so that the housing collar can be removed and the upper and lower housing portions can be disassembled. The internal components can then be accessed and replaced as required.

[00117] It will be appreciated that any of a number of fluid inlet paths could be employed, as long as the liquid is delivered into the cyclone housing and cyclone cartridge in such a way as to ensure distribution into the multiple cyclones and then to the cartridge filter. Similarly, any of a number of fluid inlet paths could be employed, as long as the liquid is delivered into the cartridge filter or filters. Such alternate paths are by way of one or more of the secondary inlet ports shown in embodiments herein. In other embodiments, such alternate paths are by way of inlets at different locations to the secondary inlet ports shown in embodiments herein.

[00118] Further, it will be appreciated that alternative attachment means could be employed for securing the structural elements in the configuration described and illustrated. For instance, rather than using a housing collar, a plurality of screws may be used to secure the upper and lower housing portions.

[00119] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

Claims:

1. An integrated liquid sediment filtration system including: a fluid inlet for receiving a liquid to be filtered; a multi-cyclone sediment filter comprising a cyclone cartridge having a plurality of conically shaped fluid cyclones, each having a small opening at a lower end and larger opening at an upper end such that the fluid cyclones are in fluid communication with the fluid inlet for receiving and filtering the received liquid; and a cartridge filter in fluid communication with the multi-cyclone sediment filter for receiving outputted filtered liquid from the multi-cyclone sediment filter and further filtering the outputted filtered liquid; and an integrated housing within which the multi-cyclone sediment filter and the cartridge filter are disposed, the housing defining the fluid inlet and including at least one fluid outlet.

2. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 1 wherein the multicyclone sediment filter further comprises a diffuser plate seal ingly connected to the cyclone cartridge, the diffuser plate including a plurality of diffuser tubes, each diffuser tube extending downwardly into an upper open portion of one of said fluid cyclones for receiving liquid from the fluid cyclones and for directing the liquid up and away from said diffuser plate and out of the multi-cyclone sediment filter;

3. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the housing includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion.

4. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 3 wherein the lower housing portion including a sump for collecting sediment.

5. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the multi-cyclone sediment filter is disposed substantially within the lower housing portion.

6. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims 2 to 5, wherein the lower housing portion includes a viewing window port radially disposed at a bottom end the lower housing portion.

7. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 6, including a viewing window sealingly engaged with the viewing window port.

8. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims 2 to 7, wherein the lower housing portion defines the fluid inlet.

9. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims 2 to 8, wherein the upper housing portion defines the at least one fluid outlet.

10. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fluid outlet is radially facing.

11. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cyclone cartridge includes at least twelve cyclones.

12. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cyclone cartridge includes at least sixteen cyclones.

13. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each cyclone has open upper and lower ends, the lower end having the narrower opening, such that the cross-sectional area of the passage through each cyclone decreases from top to bottom.

14. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 13, wherein each cyclone decreases from top to bottom at an angle of between about 82 and 86 degrees.

15. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the lower end of each cyclone has an internal diameter of about 8.5mm to 9.5mm.

16. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims 13 to 15, wherein the lower end of each cyclone terminates with a short tubular outlet.

17. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 16, wherein the short tubular outlet is about 15mm in length.

18. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each cyclone has a length along a longitudinal axis of about 140mm to 175mm.

19. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of cyclones are circumferentially disposed on a horizontal plane about cyclone cartridge.

20. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 19, wherein the centres of each cyclone are on a pitch circle diameter of about 240mm to 280mm.

21. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the cyclone cartridge has an overall outer diameter of about 325mm to 375mm.

22. The integrated liquid sediment filtration system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outputted filtered liquid is received by the cartridge filter from the multicyclone sediment filter such that it is distributed uniformly to the cartridge filter.