A zone cartridge for water treatment for a zone device for water treatment, a head of a zone device for water treatment and a zone device for water treatment comprising such a cartridge and such a head

A zone water-treatment cartridge (3) for a water-treatment device, wherein the device comprises a head comprising a port for feeding water for treatment to the cartridge (3) and a port for discharging water from the cartridge after treatment. The zone water-treatment cartridge (3) comprises a first inlet channel (6) and a second inlet channel (7) for feeding water for treatment to the cartridge (3), configured to form a fluid communication with the port of the head for feeding water to the water-treatment cartridge (3), and an outlet channel for discharging water after treatment from the cartridge (3), configured to form a fluid communication with the port for discharging water after treatment from the cartridge (3), a first water-treatment zone, which is in a fluid communication with the first inlet channel (6), a second water-treatment zone, which is in a fluid communication with the second inlet channel (7), the first water-treatment zone and the outlet channel, respectively. The zone water-treatment cartridge (3) comprises orienting means (11) configured to establish a flow of water for treatment from the port of the head for feeding water for treatment through at least one of the fist inlet channel (6) and the second inlet channel (7) by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge (3) in the head of the zone water-treatment device. The invention also relates to the head of a zone water-treatment device for use with a zone water-treatment cartridge and to a zone water-treatment device comprising a head and a zone water-treatment cartridge.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to water treatment, in particular, domestic treatment of tap water. More specifically, the present invention relates to a zone water-treatment cartridge for a zone water-treatment device. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a head of the zone water-treatment device. The present invention relates to a zone water-treatment device comprising such a cartridge and such a head.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are known domestic water-treatment devices, in particular, filtering devices, comprising a head with a zone water-treatment cartridge disposed therein, in particular, filtering cartridges for softening tap water. In these solutions, the flow of water through individual zones of the water-treatment cartridge is set by switching a control mechanism located in the head of a filtering device. This control mechanism has a very complex structure. The control mechanism is set or controlled by means of additional tools, such as a screwdriver, a hex key, etc. Domestic filtering devices featuring a zone filtering cartridge are usually installed on the water supply system in a kitchen in an under sink cabinet, wherein following treatment in a zone filtering device, water is drawn from a small tap installed on a kitchen sink. Therefore, access to the device is usually significantly constrained. Consequently, the very installation or replacement of a zone filtering cartridge is troublesome. Setting or controlling the head of the filtering device to provide a proper flow of water through particular zones of the filter is highly problematic, irritating and imprecise, especially when applying additional tools in a constrained space, and may cause user's annoyance.

Therefore, there is a demand for a zone water-treatment device with a zone water-treatment cartridge, providing quick, easy, precise and pleasant control of water flow through the particular water-treatment zones of the zone water-treatment cartridge. In particular, there is a demand for a zone water-treatment device with a zone water-treatment cartridge, wherein the device comprises a simplified and reliable setting or controlling system for setting and controlling an appropriate flow of water through the particular zones of the cartridge, in particular, in a constrained space, especially without need to use additional tools.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Therefore, in the first aspect of the present invention, a zone water-treatment cartridge is proposed. The zone water-treatment cartridge according to the invention for a water-treatment device, wherein the water-treatment device comprises a head including a port for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge and a port for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge, comprises a first inlet channel and a second inlet channel for feeding water for treatment to the zone cartridge configured to establish a fluid communication with the port of the head for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge, and an outlet channel for discharging water after treatment from the zone cartridge, configured to establish a fluid communication with the port for discharging water following treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge, a first water-treatment zone being in fluid communication with the first inlet channel, a second water-treatment zone being in fluid communication with second inlet channel, respectively, with the first water-treatment zone and the outlet channel. The zone water-treatment cartridge is characterized in that it comprises orienting means adapted for establishing a flow of water for treatment from the port of the head for feeding water for treatment through at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device.

Preferably, the first inlet channel, the second inlet channel and the outlet channel are arranged on the neck of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, the outlet channel is arranged on the face of the neck, whereas the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel are arranged next to each other and on the side of the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel are arranged parallel to the face of the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, at least one of the first and the second water-treatment zone comprises at least one water-treatment bed.

Preferably, a water-treatment bed is selected from a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water-enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed and a biological treatment bed.

Preferably, the first water-treatment zone comprises a first water-treatment bed, which is a water hardness adjustment bed, and the second water-treatment zone comprises a second water-treatment bed, which is a filtering bed.

Preferably, in order to control the flow of water for treatment by the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device through at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel, the orienting means are configured to cooperate with the limiting means on the head of the zone water-treatment device.

Preferably, the orienting means are a protrusion arranged radially near the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge for cooperating with the limiting means in the form of a notch on the head of the zone water-treatment device.

In another aspect of the present invention, a head for the zone water-treatment devices is provided. The head according to the invention of the zone water-treatment device for receiving a zone water-treatment cartridge comprising a first inlet channel and a second inlet channel for feeding water for treatment to the zone cartridge and an outlet channel for discharging water after treatment from the zone cartridge, comprises a port for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge and a port for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge configured to form a fluid communication with the outlet channel of the zone water-treatment cartridge. The head is characterized in that it comprises limiting means configured to establish a flow of water for treatment from the port of the head for feeding water with at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device.

Preferably, the port for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge and the port for discharge water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge are arranged in the seat of the head of the zone water-treatment device.

Preferably, the port for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge is arranged on the side of the seat of the head, whereas the port for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge is arranged at the bottom of the seat of the head.

Preferably, in order to control the flow of water for treatment by the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device through at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel, the limiting means are configured to cooperate with the orienting means on the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, the limiting means is a notch in the head of the zone water-treatment device for cooperating with the orienting means on the zone water-treatment cartridge in a form of a protrusion arranged radially near the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a zone water-treatment device is provided. The zone water-treatment device according to the invention comprises a head containing a port for feeding water for treatment and a port for discharging water after treatment and a zone water-treatment cartridge comprising a first inlet channel and a second inlet channel for feeding water for treatment to the zone cartridge in fluid communication with the port of the head for feeding water for treatment, and an outlet channel for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge in fluid communication with the port for discharging water after treatment, a first water-treatment zone being in fluid communication with the first inlet channel, a second treatment zone being in fluid communication with the second inlet channel, the first water-treatment zone and the outlet channel. The zone water-treatment device is characterized in that the zone water-treatment cartridge comprises orienting means, and the head of the zone water-treatment device comprises limiting means configured to control the flow of water through at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel of the zone water-treatment cartridge by rotation of said cartridge in the head of the water-treatment device.

Preferably, the port for feeding water for treatment and the port for discharging water after treatment from the water-treatment cartridge are arranged in the seat of the head of the device, while the first inlet channel, the second inlet channel and the outlet channel are arranged on the neck of the body of the zone water-treatment device.

Preferably, the port for feeding water for treatment is arranged on the side of the seat of the device, while the port for discharging water after treatment is arranged at the bottom of the seat, while the outlet channel is arranged on the face of the neck of the cartridge, and the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel are arranged next to each other on the side of the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel are arranged parallel to the face of the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge.

Preferably, at least one of the first and the second water-treatment zone comprises at least one water-treatment bed.

Preferably, a water-treatment bed is selected from a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water-enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed and a biological treatment bed.

Preferably, the first water-treatment zone comprises a first water-treatment bed, which is a water hardness adjustment bed, and the second water-treatment zone comprises a second water-treatment bed, which is a filtering bed.

Preferably, in order to control the flow of water for treatment through at least one of the first inlet channel and the second inlet channel of the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the water-treatment device, the orienting means of the zone water-treatment cartridge cooperate with the limiting means on the head.

Preferably, the orienting means is a protrusion arranged radially near the neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge, whereas the limiting means is a notch on the head of the device.

The technical solutions according to the above-mentioned aspects of the present invention thus provide a zone water-treatment cartridge, a head of a zone water-treatment device and a zone water-treatment device comprising such a head and such a cartridge, wherein, by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device, the flow of water through the particular zones of the zone water-treatment cartridge is controlled quickly, easily and enjoyably. The zone water-treatment device comprises a remarkably simple and reliable setting or control system for establishing a flow of water through the particular zones of the cartridge, particularly useful in a confined space and without having to use additional tools such as a screwdriver, a hex key, etc.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The presents invention provides a zone water-treatment cartridge3for a zone water treatment device1. As shown inFIGS. 1 to 4, the zone water-treatment cartridge comprises a body comprising a cylindrical part15, said body being closed with a bottom at one of its ends, and a body cap16mounted at the second of the ends of the cylindrical part15. The cylindrical part15with the bottom, together with the cap16, form an inner chamber17of the zone water-treatment cartridge3.

As shown in the Figs., especially inFIG. 1-4, the body cap16comprises a neck5arranged in the central portion of the body cap16and extending outside from the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and substantially oriented along the longitudinal axis of the body of the cartridge3. As shown inFIG. 2, the neck5has a substantially circular cross-section. The neck5comprises a first inlet channel6and a second inlet channel7for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge3and an outlet channel8for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The first inlet channel6and the second inlet channel7are arranged on the side wall of the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Moreover, as shown inFIG. 1-4, the first and the second inlet channels6,7are arranged next to each other and in the same distance from the face of the neck5such that they are arranged parallel to the face of the neck. The outlet channel8is arranged on the face, that is, on the upper surface of the neck5, and is arranged substantially in the longitudinal axis of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The first inlet channel6runs directly to the inner chamber17immediately behind the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4.

The inner chamber17of the zone water-treatment cartridge3holds a directing conduit18in fluid communication with the second inlet channel7. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the directing conduit18is arranged in the longitudinal axis of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. As shown inFIG. 3, the length of the directing conduit18or the position of the side openings opening out of the directing conduit18into the inside of the inner chamber17of the cartridge as shown inFIG. 4, define the first water-treatment zone I and the second water-treatment zone II. The first water-treatment zone I is in fluid communication with the second water-treatment zone II. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the first water-treatment zone I is arranged around the directing conduit18and extends substantially from the neck5to the end of the directing conduit18or the side openings on the directing conduit18, respectively, whereas the second water-treatment zone II extends substantially from the end of the directing conduit18or the side openings on the directing conduit18, respectively, to the bottom of the inner chamber17of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The directing conduit18is used for transporting water for treatment from the second inlet channel7directly to the second water-treatment zone II, that is, bypassing the first water-treatment zone I in the zone water-treatment cartridge3.

Inside the directing conduit18is an outlet conduit19being in fluid communication with the outlet channel8for discharging water from the second water-treatment zone II to the outlet channel8on the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Such arrangement of the conduits18and19provides the most advantageous usage of the inner chamber17inside the zone water-treatment cartridge3. As shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the outlet conduit19is arranged substantially in the longitudinal axis of the directing conduit18, providing whereby the most advantageous flow of water in a tube-in-tube system, i.e., in a system with the outlet conduit19being arranged in the directing conduit18. In other embodiments the outlet conduit19is situated outside the directing conduit18. In such a case, the directing conduit18and the outlet conduit19are arranged inside the zone water-treatment cartridge3next to each other (not shown in Figures). In yet another embodiment, the directing conduit18and the outlet conduit19neighbouring on each other are arranged together substantially around the longitudinal axis of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3.

As shown in Figures, the first inlet channel6and the second inlet channel7for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge3and the outlet channel8for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge3each have a circular cross-section. In other embodiments, the first inlet channel6, the second inlet channel7and the outlet channel8have, independently, a cross-section selected from a group including a circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or any polygonal cross-section. In yet another preferred embodiment at least one of the first inlet channel6, the second inlet channel7and the outlet channel8comprises at least one partition, dividing channels6,7and8, respectively, into at least two inlet or outlet sub-channels, respectively (not shown in Figures). In a preferred embodiment the first inlet channel6, the second inlet channel7and the outlet channel8each comprise one partition dividing these channels6,7and8into two inlet sub-channels and two outlet sub-channels, respectively (not shown in Figures). In yet another preferred embodiment the first inlet channel6, the second inlet channel7and the outlet channel8each comprise two intersecting partitions dividing these channels6,7and8into four inlet sub-channels and four outlet sub-channels, respectively (not shown in Figures).

As mentioned above, in the first water-treatment zone I and the second water-treatment zone II the water fed to the zone water-treatment cartridge3is subjected to the first and second treatment, respectively. Water treatment in the zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the present invention is performed in beds. Water-treatment beds are selected from, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water-enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed, a biological water-treatment bed, etc.

The filtering bed used in the zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the present invention is to separate from the water subjected to treatment undesired physical components, such as pollution particles and chemical components, such as, for example, undesired chemical substances dissolved in water. Physical impurities are separated on a filtering bed substantially by means of mechanical separation of impurity particles on the bed. Without limiting to any theory, chemical impurities are removed on a filtering bed substantially by means of absorption. A filtering bed comprises at least one of the materials selected from, but not limited to, fibrous materials, such as, for example, filtering paper, filtering canvas, cotton wool, lignin, absorption materials, such as, for example, activated carbon. In one of the preferred embodiments, the filtering bed is made in a form of a bag made of a filtering material filled with an absorption material powder or granulate, such as, for example, activated carbon. In yet another one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention the filtering bed is in a form of a block. In the most preferred embodiment of the present invention the filtering bed is a block of activated carbon.

A water hardness adjustment bed in the zone water-treatment cartridge according to the present invention is to control the hardness of the water subjected to treatment. In practice, controlling the hardness of water consists in decreasing its hardness, that is, softening it. Controlling the hardness of water consists in ion exchange on the bed. A water hardness adjustment bed comprises a material for controlling water hardness in the form of, but not limited to, a powder or granulate. The water-hardness adjustment material is selected from, but not limited to, an ion-exchange resin.

A water enrichment bed used in the zone water-treatment cartridge3is to introduce desired substances into water subjected to treatment. The desired substances introduced into water during its enrichment include, but not limited to, ions, such as, for example, magnesium, calcium ions. A water enrichment bed comprises a material that releases desired substances into water subjected to treatment, wherein the material is selected from, but not limited to, a material releasing magnesium ions, a material releasing calcium ions. In the most preferred embodiment of the present invention the water enrichment bed is a block releasing magnesium ions.

The water pH adjustment bed used in the zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the present invention is to appropriately control the pH of the water subjected to treatment. The biological treatment bed used in the zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the present invention is to remove undesired biological forms from water subjected to treatment. Removing undesired biological forms includes, but not limited to, removing viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, including their eggs, cysts, endospores, intermediate forms, etc. Biological organisms may be removed physically or chemically.

It will be clear to a specialist that the functions performed by the above-mentioned beds may be combined into a single bed. For example, one can provide a single bed with controlling the hardness of water and simultaneously enriching it or adjusting its pH.

In one of the preferred embodiments, as shown inFIG. 3, the first water-treatment zone I of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises a first bed9for the first treatment of water, while the second water-treatment zone II comprises a second bed10for the second treatment of water. Thus, in this embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the first water-treatment zone I water is treated only in the first bed9, i.e., the first water treatment, while in the second water-treatment zone II water is treated only in the second bed10, i.e., the second water treatment.

In another preferred embodiment, as shown inFIG. 4, the first water-treatment zone I of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises a first bed9for the first treatment of water, wherein said first bed9extends onto a portion of the second water-treatment zone II. The remaining part of the second water-treatment zone II comprises the second bed10for the second treatment of water. Thus, the second water-treatment zone II comprises a portion of the first bed9for the first treatment of water and the second bed10for the second treatment of water. Consequently, in this embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIG. 4, in the first water-treatment zone I the treatment is performed only in the first bed9, i.e., the first treatment of water. In the second water-treatment zone II water is treated in a portion of the first water-treatment bed9and in the second water-treatment bed10, i.e., the first and the second treatment of water may be performed in the second water-treatment zone II.

Generally, in a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge, the first water-treatment bed9is selected from, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed, a biological treatment bed, while the second water-treatment bed10is selected from, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed, a biological treatment bed, wherein the first water-treatment bed9differs from the second water-treatment bed10. In the most preferred embodiment the first bed9is a water hardness adjustment bed in the form of ion-exchange resin, while the second bed10is a filtering bed in the form of an activated carbon block.

Thus, the zone water-treatment cartridge3with two different beds9,10, as described above, constitutes a two-function zone cartridge. For example, the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises a zone filtering-water pH adjustment cartridge, a zone filtering-water hardness adjustment cartridge, a zone filtering-water enrichment cartridge, a zone filtering-biological treatment cartridge. It should be noted that any given combination is possible of two of the beds including, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed and a biological treatment bed.

One or both of the first and the second water-treatment zone I, II can also comprise one or more additional beds for subsequent water treatments, being the same and/or different from the first bed9for the first treatment of water and/or the second bed10for the second treatment of water. Such one or more additional water-treatment beds are selected from, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water-enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed, a biological water-treatment bed.

In another one of the preferred embodiments of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, it comprises one additional water-treatment bed (not shown in Figures) arranged in the first water-treatment zone I upstream or downstream the first water-treatment bed9, depending on the needs. In another preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, it comprises one additional water-treatment bed (not shown in Figures) arranged in the second water-treatment zone II upstream or downstream the second water-treatment bed10. In a preferred embodiment of the water-treatment cartridge3an additional water-treatment bed is selected from, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed, a biological treatment bed, wherein the additional water-treatment bed is different from the first and the second water-treatment bed9,10.

Thus, the zone water-treatment cartridge3with three different beds, as described above, is a three-function zone cartridge. For example, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a zone filtering-water pH adjustment-water hardness adjustment cartridge, a zone filtering-water pH adjustment-water hardness adjustment cartridge, a zone water pH adjustment-filtering-water enrichment cartridge, a zone water pH adjustments-filtering-biological cartridge, etc. It should be noted that any given combination of three beds is possible, including, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed and a biological treatment bed. An appropriate, desired water treatment in the system with three beds is provided by means of an appropriate selection of the beds, their appropriate arrangement within the first and the second water-treatment zone I, II.

In yet another embodiment of the invention, if necessary, the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises four or more water-treatment beds. The water-treatment beds in a zone cartridge3with four or more beds are arranged similarly, as in the case of the zone water-treatment cartridge3with tree beds, as described above. Thus, a zone water-treatment cartridge3with four or more beds comprises a zone four-function cartridge or a zone multi-function cartridge, respectively. The beds for the zone water-treatment cartridge3with four or more water-treatment beds are selected in any given combination from a group including, but not limited to, a filtering bed, a water hardness adjustment bed, a water enrichment bed, a water pH adjustment bed and a biological treatment bed.

The zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises orienting means11arranged on the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The orienting means11of the zone water-treatment cartridge3are arranged on the body relative to the first and the second inlet channel6,7in such spatial interdependence that allows to place and set in a specific orientation of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1substantially by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge3relative to the head2of the zone water-treatment device1around the longitudinal axis of the cartridge3. In a preferred embodiment the orienting means11is a protrusion arranged on the cap16of the body. Preferably, the orienting means11is a longitudinal protrusion arranged radially on the cap16, as shown inFIG. 1. In other preferred embodiments of the zone water-treatment cartridge3the orienting means11are arranged on the neck5of the body of the zone water-treatment device3(not shown in Figures). In yet another preferred embodiment the orienting means11is a cavity (not shown in Figures). Arranged on the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a marker20, which is helpful in orienting the zone water-treatment cartridge3relative to the head2of the zone water-treatment device1.

The body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises mounting means21for mounting the cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. The mounting means21of the zone water-treatment device1allow to mount the cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1such that the zone water-treatment cartridge3is substantially immobile relative to the head2along the longitudinal axis of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and is allowed to rotate relative to the head2around the longitudinal axis of the cartridge3. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3the mounting means21is a protrusion extending on at least a portion of the lateral surface of the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. In yet another preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, the mounting means21of the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a protrusion in the form of a ring arranged around the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 1-4.

The body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprises sealing means22for sealing the connection between the cartridge3, following its mounting, and the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. In a preferred embodiment the sealing means22are sealing rings arranged on the neck5of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. In another preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3the sealing means22are two sealing rings on the neck5of the body of the cartridge3, wherein one of them is arranged on one side relative to the first and the second inlet channel6,7for feeding water to the cartridge3, while the second one of them is arranged on the opposite side of the first and the second inlet channel6,7for feeding water to the cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4.

The zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the invention is a replacement cartridge. In a preferred embodiment the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a disposable cartridge which is removed from the zone water-treatment device1and thrown away or disposed of and replaced by a new zone water-treatment cartridge3. In a preferred embodiment the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a multiple-use cartridge which is removed from the zone water-treatment device1and reconditioned for further use in the zone water-treatment device1.

Furthermore, the present invention provides a zone water-treatment device1. As generally shown inFIG. 5, the zone water-treatment device1comprises a head2and a zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the present invention, wherein the zone water-treatment cartridge3is placed in the head2. The head2comprises a seat4in which the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3is arranged. The seat4is a recess having a substantially circular cross-section, whose shape corresponds with the shape of the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 7.

The head2of the zone water-treatment device1comprises a port12for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The port12of the head2is on one side connected to the water-supply network in order to feed water from the water-supply network to the head2. The port12for feeding water for treatment is arranged on the side wall of the seat and forms, at the other end, a fluid communication with at least one of the first and the second inlet channel5,6of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, when installed as shown inFIG. 6. In a preferred embodiment of the water-treatment device1, the port1for feeding water for treatment comprises termination means23for terminating the flow of water from the water-supply network, when the zone water-treatment cartridge is removed from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1, the terminating means23is a check valve. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprising at least one partition situated in at least one of the first inlet channel6and the second inlet channel6, as described above, such at least one partition cooperates, when the zone water-treatment cartridge3is installed in the head2, with the terminating means23of the port12such that these terminating means23are fully open, improving thus the flow of water to be treated to the zone water-treatment cartridge3.

The head2of the zone water-treatment device1comprises a port13for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The port13of the head2is on one side connected to the collection system to discharge water after treatment from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1for the water to be used. Preferably, the collection system is a household water-supply network or a terminal for taking water after treatment. The port13for discharge water after treatment is arranged at the bottom of the seat4and forms, at the other end, a fluid communication with the outlet channel8of the zone water-treatment cartridge3for discharging water from the cartridge3, when installed as shown inFIG. 6. In a preferred embodiment of the water-treatment device1, the port13for discharging water after treatment comprises terminating means24for terminating the water evacuating from the plumbing system downstream the head2, when the zone water-treatment cartridge3is removed from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1, the terminating means24is a check valve. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment cartridge3comprising at least one partition arranged in the outlet channel8, as described above, such at least one partition cooperates, when the zone water-treatment cartridge3is installed in the head2, with the terminating means24of the port13such that these terminating means24are fully open, improving thus the discharging water after treatment from the zone cartridge3.

The head2of the zone water-treatment device1comprises limiting means25. The limiting means25are arranged in the head2correspondingly to the orienting means11of the zone water-treatment cartridge3such that when the cartridge3is installed, the limiting means25cooperate with the orienting means11of the cartridge3and define the range within which the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to rotate around its longitudinal axis in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. In a preferred embodiment of the head2, when the orienting means11of the zone cartridge3is a protrusion, as described above, the limiting means25is a notch in the head2of the water-treatment device1, as shown inFIGS. 5 and 8-10. In another preferred embodiment of the head2, when the orienting means11of the zone cartridge3is a recess, as described above, the limiting means25is a protrusion on the head2of the water-treatment device1(not shown in Figures).

The head2of the zone water-treatment device comprises markings26within the limiting means25, as shown by way of example inFIGS. 5 and 8-10, which are helpful to the user in controlling the position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the water-treatment device1according to the invention.

The head2of the zone water-treatment device1comprises a mounting mechanism for mounting the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1such that the zone water-treatment cartridge3is substantially translationally immobile in the axial direction of the cartridge3relative to the seat2of the zone water-treatment device1, but allows the cartridge3to rotate relative to the head2. The mounting mechanism of the head2comprises coupling means27arranged inside or near the seat4of the head2, which engage with the mounting means21of the zone water-treatment cartridge3during and after mounting of the cartridge3in the head2of the device1, as shown inFIG. 6. The coupling means27of the mounting mechanism of the head2are connected with releasing means28for releasing the coupling means27in order to release the zone water-treatment cartridge3for its removal from the head2of the device1. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1the coupling means27of the head2comprise at least one snap element arranged in the seat4of the head2of the water-treatment device1, which snaps onto the protrusion arranged on the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 8-10. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1, the releasing means28is a button arranged on the head2of the device1, as shown inFIG. 5, which is coupled with at least one snap element for manual releasing of the zone water-treatment cartridge3by the user by means of pressing it with a finger.

The head2of the zone water-treatment device1comprises a venting system for venting the zone water-treatment cartridge3. In a preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1, the venting system comprises a venting channel in fluid communication with the zone water-treatment cartridge3for venting air from the cartridge3, a venting button for initiating and performing the venting of the cartridge3, wherein said button is in fluid communication with the venting channel, and a venting conduit in fluid communication with the venting channel, wherein, preferably, the venting conduit is directed along the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIG. 5.

The zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the invention is placed in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1such that the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3is inserted into the seat4of the head2of the device1. During the insertion the mounting means21of the zone water-treatment cartridge3engage with the coupling means27of the mounting mechanism of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. While inserting the zone water-treatment cartridge3into the head2of the device1, the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3engage with the limiting means25on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1.

In the embodiment, wherein the orienting means11on the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a protrusion and the limiting means25on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is a notch or vice versa, that is, in the embodiment, wherein the orienting means11on the zone water-treatment cartridge3is a notch and the limiting means25on the head2of the water-treatment device is a protrusion, engaging of the orienting means11with the limiting means25consists in inserting the protrusion into the notch, respectively, as shown inFIG. 5.

In a preferred embodiment of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, comprising the terminating means23,24at the port12,13, respectively, as described above, while placing the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the device1, the terminating means23of the port12of the head2of the water-treatment device1are unlocked unlocking the fluid communication for the water to be feed for treatment to the water-treatment cartridge3and the terminating means24of the port13of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1are unlocked unlocking the fluid communication for the water to be discharged after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIGS. 6 and 8-10. In preferred embodiments with at least one partition in the inlet channels6,7, respectively, and/or in the outlet channel8, as described above, such at least one partition cooperates with the terminating means23and/or terminating means24, respectively, assisting the opening of the terminating means23,24, improving the flow of water into the zone cartridge3for treatment and/or out of the zone cartridge3after treatment.

When the zone water-treatment cartridge3is installed of, it is substantially axially immobile relative to the head2of the device1, that is, it is unmovable out and to the head2. In other words, the neck5of the zone water-treatment cartridge3does not move axially in the seat4of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. Simultaneously, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to rotate around its longitudinal axis relative to the head2of the device1, that is, the neck is allowed to rotate in the seat4of the head2, wherein the range of rotation is defined by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. Moreover, the port12of the head2is in fluid communication with at least one the first and the second inlet channel6,7for feeding water to the zone water-treatment cartridge, while the port13of the head2is in fluid communication with the outlet channel8for discharging water from the zone water-treatment cartridge3.

When the zone water-treatment cartridge3is installed in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1it is allowed to oriented in positions ranging between a first limit position and a second limit position, wherein the limit positions are defined by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the device1.

In the first of the limit positions the zone water-treatment cartridge3is arranged in the head2of the zone water-treatment device in the first extreme position allowed by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the device1. In said first limit position, the port12of the head2is oriented opposite the first inlet channel6arranged on the neck5of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge, as shown inFIG. 8. Consequently, the entire stream of water from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is directed only to the first inlet channel6of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Subsequently, water flows into the inner chamber17of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and flows through the first water-treatment zone I, wherein the flowing water is subjected to treatment on at least one bed in the first zone I, and further through the second water-treatment zone II, wherein the flowing water is subjected to treatment on at least one bed in the second zone II. After treatment in the second water-treatment zone II, water flows through the outlet tube19discharging water after treatment into the outlet channel8of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and then, through the port13for discharging water of the head2of the device1, it is directed for use. Thus, in this position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1the entire water feed into the zone water-treatment cartridge3, that is, the entire stream of water flowing into the head2of the device1is subjected to treatment in the first water-treatment zone I and subsequently in the second water-treatment zone II of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The flow of water through the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the first of its limit positions in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is shown schematically with arrows inFIG. 8on the right.

In the second of the limit positions, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is arranged in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1in the second extreme position allowed by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the device1. In said second limit position, the port12of the head2is oriented opposite the second inlet channel7arranged on the neck5of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIG. 9. Consequently, the entire stream of water from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is directed only to the second inlet channel7of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Subsequently, water flows into the directing conduit18and flows directly into the second water-treatment zone II in the inner chamber17of the cartridge3bypassing the first water-treatment zone I. In the second water-treatment zone II water is subjected to treatment on at least one bed. Following treatment in the second water-treatment zone II, water flows into the outlet tube19discharge water after treatment into the outlet channel8of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and then, through the port13for discharging water of the head2of the device1, it is directed for use. Thus, in this position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, the entire water feed into the zone water-treatment cartridge3is subjected to treatment only in the second water-treatment zone II. In this limit position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1water is substantially not subjected to treatment in the first zone I of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. The flow of water through the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the second of its limit positions in the head1of the zone water-treatment device1is show schematically with arrows inFIG. 9on the right.

In the intermediate position, the zone water-treatment cartridge2is arranged in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1between the first extreme position and the second extreme position allowed by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2, as described above. In this intermediate position, the port12of the head is oriented such that it is in fluid communication with the first inlet channel6and the second inlet channel7arranged on the neck5of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, as shown inFIG. 10. Consequently, a portion of the water stream flows into the first inlet channel7of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and flows through for treatment, as described above for the first of the limit positions, while a portion of the water flows into the second inlet channel7of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and flows through for treatment, as described for the second of the limit positions, wherein the water streams from the first and the second inlet channel6,7combine in the second water-treatment zone II of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Thus, in this intermediate position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, a portion of the water feed into the zone water-treatment cartridge3is subjected to treatment only in the first water-treatment zone I, whereas the entire water feed into the zone water-treatment cartridge is subjected to treatment in the second water-treatment zone. The flow of water in an exemplary intermediate position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is shown schematically with arrows inFIG. 10.

The ratio of the water directed to the first and the second inlet channel6,7and, consequently, the amount of water directed for treatment in the first water-treatment zone I in the zone water-treatment cartridge3can be controlled by rotation of the cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1between two limit (extreme) positions, as described above. Rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1and, consequently, rotation of the neck5of the cartridge3in the seat4of the head2of the device1changes the ratio of the access fields to the first inlet channel6and the second inlet channel7of the zone water-treatment cartridge3relative to the port12of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, whereby together with an increase in the access to one of the inlet channels access to the second of the inlet channels decreases.

Therefore, in the preferred embodiment presented inFIGS. 8-10, in order to increase the amount of water directed for treatment to the first water-treatment zone I, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is rotated in the head2of the device1left in the direction of the “+” marking, increasing thus the overlapping of the first inlet channel6of the cartridge3over the port12of the head2of the device1, while decreasing the overlapping of the port12over the second inlet channel7of the cartridge3. This way, the amount of the water directed for treatment to the first water-treatment zone I increases, while decreasing the amount of water directed for treatment directly to the second water-treatment zone II of the zone water -treatment cartridge3bypassing the first water-treatment zone I. In order to achieve directing of the entire water to the first water-treatment zone, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is rotated maximally left in the direction of the “+” marking allowed by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the device1, achieving the first of the limit positions, as described above and as shown inFIG. 8.

In turn, in the preferred embodiment presented inFIGS. 8-10, in order to decrease the amount of water directed for treatment to the first water-treatment zone I, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is rotated right in the direction of the “−” marking, decreasing thus the overlapping of the first inlet channel6of the cartridge3over the port12of the head2of the device1, while increasing the overlapping of the port12over the second inlet channel7of the cartridge3. This way, the amount of the water directed for treatment to the first water-treatment zone I decreases, while increasing the amount of water directed for treatment directly to the second water-treatment zone II of the zone water-treatment cartridge3bypassing the first water-treatment zone I. In order to achieve bypassing the first water-treatment zone I by the entire water for treatment, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is rotated maximally right in the direction of the “−” marking allowed by the orienting means11on the body of the cartridge3in cooperation with the limiting means25on the head2of the device1achieving the second of the limit positions, as described above and as shown inFIG. 9.

Setpoint, that is, the set position of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the seat2of the zone water-treatment device1is defined for the water parameter at the inlet of the device1, which is changed by the treatment of water in the first water-treatment zone I, such as, for example, the water hardness for softening, water pH for alkalising, ion content for enrichment, etc. The setpoint of the zone water-treatment cartridge3can be determined based on a test. For example, water from the water supply network to be subjected to treatment in the zone water-treatment device1according to the present invention is tested by means of a test. The test shows the value of the water parameter such as, for example, water hardness, water pH or the content of a particular ion, etc. Subsequently, the setpoint is determined based on tables, wherein, as a result of the treatment of the water in the first water-treatment zone I of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, the considered water parameter is changed to the desired level, that is, for example, water of a specific hardness/softness, for example, softened water, water of a specific pH, for example, alkalised water, water with a changed ion content, for example, with an increased content of magnesium, calcium. The setpoint may be determined using other means and procedures, which, based on a test of a specific water parameter allow to determine the setpoint of the zone water-treatment cartridge3, such as, for example, a computer program, a smartphone or tablet application, etc. Based on a specific setpoint, the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the zone water-treatment device1is set by means of its rotation, as described above, to the corresponding position between the first and the second limit position, as described above. Of course, the user may set the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the zone water-treatment device1according to the present invention without determining the setpoint of the cartridge3, as described above, relying on their knowledge, experience, subjective assessment or simply intuition.

In one of the preferred embodiments of the zone water-treatment device1according to the invention, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to rotate continually in the head2of the device1between the first and the second limit position, as described above. In other words, in such an embodiment, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to be set in each possible rotational position relative to the head2of the device1between the first and the second limit position. In another preferred embodiment of the zone water-treatment device1according to the invention, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to rotate discretely in the head2of the device1between the first and the second limit position. In other words, in such an embodiment, the zone water-treatment cartridge3is allowed to be set in specific rotational positions relative to the head2of the device1between the first and the second limit position. The discrete positions for the zone water-treatment cartridge are selected as needed depending, for example, on the quality of the water from the water-supply network to be treated and/or the type of the zone water-treatment cartridge3used. The discrete positions of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the head2of the water-treatment device are provided, for example, by means of a ratchet mechanism arranged in the head2of the zone water-treatment device, which cooperates with the determining elements in the form of notches or cavities arranged correspondingly on the zone water-treatment cartridge3, for example near or on the neck5of the body of the cartridge3.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention comprising a venting system, as described above, the zone water-treatment device1system is vented by pressing the vent button. Venting the zone water-treatment device1system can be performed at any moment following installation of the zone water-treatment cartridge and as many times as required. Venting the zone water-treatment device1system can be performed immediately after installation of the zone water-treatment cartridge3in the zone water-treatment device1after setting the cartridge3in the device1or at any moment during the operation of the device1.

When it is necessary to uninstall or replace the zone water-treatment cartridge3, for example, as a result of a damage, loss of its water-treatment properties, one should activate the releasing means28, for example, as in one of the preferred embodiments, as shown inFIG. 5, by pressing the cartridge3replacement button in order to release the coupling means27in the head2from the mounting means21of the zone water-treatment cartridge3and to push the cartridge3out of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1.

In a preferred embodiment of the head2of the water-treatment device1comprising the terminating means23,24, during removal of the zone water-treatment cartridge3from the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, the terminating means23are activated of the port12of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, terminating thus the fluid communication for feeding water from the port12to the seat4of the device1and the terminating means24are activated of the port13of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1, terminating thus the fluid communication for water which could return to the seat4of the head2of the zone water-treatment device1. This prevents the flooding the environment in which the zone water-treatment device1is situated while removing or after removing the zone water-treatment cartridge3from the device1, that is, when the zone water-treatment cartridge3slides out of the seat4or is no longer in it.

After removing the zone water-treatment cartridge3, a new zone water-treatment cartridge3or a reconditioned zone water-treatment cartridge3can be installed, as described above.

Therefore, the zone water-treatment cartridge3according to the invention, the head2according to the invention for the zone water-treatment device1according to the invention and the zone water-treatment device1according to the invention provide technical solutions, i.e., the cartridge, the head and the device, as described above, wherein by rotation of the zone water-treatment cartridge in the head of the zone water-treatment device the flow of water through the particular zones of the zone water-treatment cartridge is controlled quickly, easily and enjoyably. The zone water-treatment device comprises a remarkably simple and reliable setting or controlling system for establishing a flow of water through the particular zones of the cartridge, particularly useful in a confined space and without having to use additional tools, such as screwdriver, a hex key, etc.

Based on the above disclosure, it will be clear to a specialist that certain technical aspects can be realized in many different ways. For example, the cylindrical part15may be integrated with the cap16to form a uniform body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3. Moreover, the zone water-treatment device1can comprise more than one head2. Depending on the needs, the zone water-treatment device1can comprise two, three or more heads2in which the same or different zone water-treatment cartridges3can be installed, that is, cartridges3performing the same or different zone water treatments, as described above in detail. A specialist will be aware that these two or more heads2may be connected in series to perform a subsequent treatment or in parallel to perform a water co-treatment.

The invention is described above with respect to preferred embodiments by way of example only. Based on the above disclosure, a specialist will recognize that modifications, variants or equivalents are possible falling within the spirit and inventive intention of the present invention, and without exceeding the scope of the attached claims.

The features indicated in the embodiments of the invention described above, especially in the preferred embodiments of the present invention, can be combined or replaced to any extent and in any configurations, whereby all new possible combinations or configurations are deemed fully disclosed in the description of the present invention.

LIST OF ELEMENTS

2Head of the zone water-treatment device1

4Seat of the head2of the water-treatment device1

5Neck of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

6First inlet channel for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment

7Second inlet channel for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment

8Outlet channel for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment

9First bed for first water treatment

10Second bed for second water treatment

11Orienting means on the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

12Port for feeding water for treatment to the zone water-treatment cartridge3

13Port for discharging water after treatment from the zone water-treatment cartridge3

14Marker on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1

15Cylindrical part of the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

16Cap of the cylindrical part15of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

17Inner chamber of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

18Conduit for feeding water for treatment to the second water-treatment zone II of the water-treatment cartridge3

19Conduit for discharging water after treatment from the second zone II of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

20Marker on the body of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

21Mounting means of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

22Sealing means of the zone water-treatment cartridge3

23Terminating means of the port12for feeding water to the head2

24Terminating means of the port13for discharging water from the head2

25Limiting means on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1

26Marker on the head2of the zone water-treatment device1

27Coupling means of the mounting mechanism of the head2

28Means for releasing the mounting mechanism in the head2

I First water-treatment zone in the zone water-treatment cartridge3

II Second water-treatment zone in the zone water-treatment cartridge3