Patent ID: 6089258
Filing Date: 2000-07-18
Classification: B01D,F16K,Y10T

Abstract:
A float valve assembly for regulating water inflow to a water purification system having a purification module and a reservoir for storing produced purified water, said float valve assembly comprising:a valve unit including a housing defining a flow path having an inlet adapted for connection to a water source and an outlet adapted for connection to a purification module, and a primary valve mounted along said flow path, said primary valve being movable between open and closed positions respectively permitting and preventing water flow through said flow path to the purification module;an elongated float arm having one end coupled to said primary valve;a primary float;means for connecting said primary float generally to an opposite end of said float arm to permit a limited range of vertical lost motion therebetween;said primary float being responsive to the level of water within a reservoir for lifting said float arm for moving said primary valve from said open position toward said closed position when the water level rises to a first predetermined level, and for lowering said float arm for moving said primary valve from said closed position toward said open position when the water level falls below said first predetermined level; andswitch means responsive to the water level rising within the reservoir substantially to said first predetermined level for positively displacing said float arm to move said primary valve to said closed position substantially with a snap action, said opposite end of said float arm being substantially free to displace vertically upwardly relative to said primary float within said limited range of lost motion upon snap action movement of said primary valve to said closed position.