REFRIGERATOR WITH MODULAR CARTRIDGES IN FLUID COMMUNICATION WITH THE WATER SUPPLY

A refrigerator apparatus and method utilizing one or more water cartridges to customize the water supply. The water cartridge may include a coupler. The water cartridge may include a cartridge head assembly. A plurality of water cartridges may be combined in fluid/electrical communication with each other to customize the water supply.

BACKGROUND

Typical residential refrigerators generally include a water filter device provided with a water filter to purify water supplied from an external water supply source. However, the consumer has limited ability to customize/modify the filtering and/or the water supplied/used.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a refrigerator may include a cabinet. In various embodiments, the cabinet may include a case having one or more food storage compartments defined therein and/or one or more doors positioned to access the one or more food storage compartments from an exterior environment. In various embodiments, the refrigerator and/or cabinet may include a refrigerator cartridge head assembly in fluid communication with a water supply. In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include one or more water cartridges. In various embodiments, at least a first water cartridge of the one or more water cartridges may include a housing having a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler releasably connected to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly between a first configuration wherein the first water cartridge is not in fluid communication with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly and a second configuration wherein the first water cartridge is in fluid communication with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler releasably connected to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, the second end may include a first cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the first cartridge head assembly may be configured to receive a second coupler of a second water cartridge.

In addition, in some embodiments, the one or more water cartridges may include a filter, a water tank, a sanitizer, and/or an additive. In various embodiments, the refrigerator may include a second water cartridge having a housing having a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may include a second coupler releasably connected to the first cartridge head assembly between a first configuration wherein the second water cartridge is not in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly and a second configuration wherein the second water cartridge is in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the first end may include a second coupler releasably connected to the first cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, the first coupler and the second coupler may be the same. In some embodiments, the first cartridge head assembly may include a first configuration and a second configuration. In various embodiments, when in the first configuration an inlet passage of the first cartridge head assembly may be closed. In some embodiments, when in the second configuration the inlet passage of the first cartridge head assembly may be open and configured to be in fluid communication with a second water cartridge. In various embodiments, two or more of the one or more water cartridges are in fluid communication with each other in series between a water supply line and a water discharge line connected to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the refrigerator may include a dispenser, a container, and/or an ice maker in downstream communication with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, two or more of the one or more water cartridges may provide different properties to the water supply.

In some embodiments, a water cartridge for a refrigerator may include a housing having a first end and a second end. In various embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler configured to be releasably connected to a refrigerator cartridge head assembly of a refrigerator between a first configuration configured to not be in fluid communication with a refrigerator cartridge head assembly and a second configuration configured to be in fluid communication with a refrigerator cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the second end may include a cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler. In some embodiments, the cartridge head assembly may be configured to receive a second coupler of a second water cartridge.

In addition, in some embodiments, the water cartridge may include a second water cartridge having a housing having a first end and a second end. In various embodiments, the first end may include a second coupler releasably connected to the cartridge head assembly between a first configuration wherein the second water cartridge is not in fluid communication with the cartridge head assembly and a second configuration wherein the second water cartridge is in fluid communication with the cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the first end may include a second coupler releasably connected to the cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, the cartridge head assembly may include a first configuration and a second configuration. In some embodiments, when in the first configuration an inlet passage of the cartridge head assembly may be closed. In various embodiments, when in the second configuration the inlet passage of the cartridge head assembly may be open and configured to be in fluid communication with a second water cartridge. In various embodiments, the water cartridge may include a filter, a water tank, a sanitizer, and/or an additive. In some embodiments, the water cartridge may include the water tank, the sanitizer, and/or the additive. In various embodiments, the water cartridge may include a downstream water cartridge that is in fluid communication between an inlet and an outlet of the first coupler. In some embodiments, the water cartridge may be different than the downstream water cartridge.

In some embodiments, a method of assembling two or more water cartridges in fluid communication may include providing a first water cartridge having a housing. In various embodiments, the housing may have a first end and a second end. In various embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler. In some embodiments, the second end may include a first cartridge head assembly. In various embodiments, the method may include providing a second water cartridge having a housing. In some embodiments, the housing may have a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may include a second coupler. In various embodiments, the second end may include a second cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the method may include releasably connecting the second coupler of the second water cartridge in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly.

In addition, in some embodiments, the first cartridge head assembly may include a first configuration and a second configuration. In various embodiments, when in the first configuration an outlet of the first cartridge head assembly may be closed. In some embodiments, when in the second configuration the outlet of the first cartridge head assembly may be open and configured to be in fluid communication with the second water cartridge. In various embodiments, the method may include releasably connecting a third water cartridge to the second cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the method may include coupling the first water cartridge and the second water cartridge to a refrigerator cartridge head assembly of a refrigerator (e.g. in fluid communication between a water supply line and a water discharge line). In various embodiments, the method may include releasably disconnecting the second coupler of the second water cartridge out of fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly.

In some embodiments, a water cartridge for a refrigerator may include a housing having a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler and a first electrical connector. In various embodiments, the first coupler may be configured to be releasably connected to a refrigerator cartridge head assembly of a refrigerator between a first configuration configured to not be in fluid communication with a refrigerator cartridge head assembly and a second configuration configured to be in fluid communication with a refrigerator cartridge head assembly and the first electrical connector configured to be in electrical communication with a refrigerator. In some embodiments, the second end may include a cartridge head assembly and a second electrical connector in electrical communication with the first electrical connector. In various embodiments, the cartridge head assembly may be configured to receive a second coupler and to be in electrical communication with a second water cartridge.

In addition, in some embodiments, the cartridge head assembly may include a first configuration and a second configuration. In various embodiments, when in the first configuration an inlet passage of the cartridge head assembly may be closed and when in the second configuration the inlet passage of the cartridge head assembly may be open and configured to be in fluid communication with a second water cartridge and the second electrical connector may be in electrical communication with a second water cartridge. In some embodiments, the water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices. In various embodiments, the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be connected in series. In some embodiments, the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be connected in parallel. In various embodiments, the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be connected by at least one signal transmitter. In various embodiments, the water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices. In some embodiments, when in the first configuration the first electrical connector may be configured to not be in electrical communication with a refrigerator.

In some embodiments, a water cartridge may include a first end and a second end. In various embodiments, the first end may include one or more first electrical connectors and the second end may include one or more second electrical connectors. In some embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors may be in electrical communication with the one or more second electrical connectors.

In addition, in some embodiments, the first end may include a first coupler configured to engage a cartridge head assembly of an appliance and/or a cartridge head assembly of another water cartridge. In various embodiments, the second end may include a cartridge head assembly configured to engage another water cartridge. In some embodiments, the water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices. In various embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected in series. In some embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected in parallel. In various embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected by one or more signal transmitters. In some embodiments, the water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices.

In some embodiments, an appliance may have one or more water cartridges. In various embodiments, the appliance may include a first water cartridge having a first end and a second end. In some embodiments, the first end may include one or more first electrical connectors. In various embodiments, the second end may include one or more second electrical connectors. In some embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors may be in electrical communication with the one or more second electrical connectors. In various embodiments, the appliance may include one or more appliance electrical connectors releasably engaging the one or more first electrical connectors.

In addition, in some embodiments, the first water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices. In various embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected in series. In some embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected in parallel. In various embodiments, the one or more first electrical connectors and the one or more second electrical connectors may be connected by one or more signal transmitters. In some embodiments, the appliance may include one or more electronic devices. In various embodiments, the appliance may include a cartridge head assembly in fluid communication with a water supply. In some embodiments, the first end of the first water cartridge may include a first coupler releasably connected to the cartridge head assembly between a first configuration wherein the first water cartridge is not in fluid communication with the cartridge head assembly and a second configuration wherein the first water cartridge is in fluid communication with the cartridge head assembly and the one or more first electrical connectors is configured to be in electrical communication with the one or more appliance electrical connectors. In various embodiments, the second end may include a first cartridge head assembly. In some embodiments, the first cartridge head assembly may be configured to engage a second coupler of a second water cartridge and/or the one or more second electrical connectors may be configured to be in electrical communication with the second water cartridge.

In some embodiments, a method of assembling two or more water cartridges in fluid communication may include providing a first water cartridge. In various embodiments, the method may include mechanically engaging the first water cartridge to an appliance. In some embodiments, the method may include fluidly connecting the first water cartridge to the appliance. In various embodiments, the method may include electrically connecting the first water cartridge to the appliance. In some embodiments, the method may include providing a second water cartridge. In various embodiments, the method may include mechanically engaging the second water cartridge to the first water cartridge. In some embodiments, the method may include fluidly connecting the second water cartridge to the first water cartridge. In various embodiments, the method may include electrically connecting the second water cartridge to the first water cartridge. In some embodiments, at least one of the first water cartridge and/or the second water cartridge may include one or more electronic devices.

These and other advantages and features, which characterize the invention, are set forth in the claims annexed hereto and forming a further part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, and of the advantages and objectives attained through its use, reference should be made to the Drawings, and to the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is described example embodiments of the invention. This summary is merely provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description, and is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Turning now to the drawings, wherein like numbers denote like parts throughout the several views,FIG.1illustrates an example refrigerator10in which the various technologies and techniques described herein may be implemented. Refrigerator10is a residential-type refrigerator, and as such includes a cabinet11including a case12(representing the fixed portion or main body of the refrigerator) having/defining one or more food storage compartments (e.g. a fresh food compartment14and a freezer compartment16), as well as one or more fresh food compartment doors18and one or more freezer compartment doors19disposed adjacent respective openings of food storage compartments14,16and configured to insulate/access the respective food storage compartments14,16from an exterior environment when the doors are closed.

Fresh food compartment14is generally maintained at a temperature above freezing for storing fresh food such as produce, drinks, eggs, condiments, lunchmeat, cheese, etc. Various shelves, drawers, and/or sub-compartments may be provided within fresh food compartment14for organizing foods, and it will be appreciated that some refrigerator designs may incorporate multiple fresh food compartments and/or zones that are maintained at different temperatures and/or at different humidity levels to optimize environmental conditions for different types of foods. Freezer compartment16is generally maintained at a temperature below freezing for longer-term storage of frozen foods, and may also include various shelves, drawers, and/or sub-compartments for organizing foods therein.

Refrigerator10as illustrated inFIG.1is a type of bottom mount refrigerator. Both the fresh food compartment and the freezer compartment may be considered to be full width as they extend substantially across the full width of the case12. It will be appreciated, however, that a variety of compartment door designs may be used in other embodiments, including various combinations and numbers of hinged and/or sliding doors for each of the fresh food and freezer compartments (e.g., a pair of French freezer doors, a single sliding freezer door, or one hinged fresh food and/or freezer door). Moreover, while refrigerator10is a bottom mount refrigerator with freezer compartment16disposed below fresh food compartment14, the invention is not so limited, and as such, the principles and techniques may be used in connection with other types of refrigerators in other embodiments, e.g., top mount refrigerators, side-by-side refrigerators, etc. Further, other appliances besides refrigerators may be used and still be within the scope of the invention. For example, a stand-alone water systems/appliances (e.g. dispensers, under sink, water fountains) may be used.

In some implementations, the refrigerator10may include one or more dispensers4for dispensing ice and/or a fluid such as water. The dispenser may be accessible internal or external to the refrigerator. In the illustrated embodiments, dispenser4, external, is an ice and water dispenser capable of dispensing both ice (cubed and/or crushed) and chilled water, while in other embodiments, dispenser4may be a fluid only dispenser for dispensing various fluids such as chilled or cooled water, hot water, coffee, beverages, or other fluids, and may have variable rate and/or fast dispense capabilities, as well as an ability to dispense predetermined or measured quantities of fluids. In some instances, ice and water may be dispensed from the same location, while in other instances separate locations may be provided in the dispenser for dispensing ice and water.

In some implementations, one or more ice makers3may be used to receive water and to make ice from the received water. Further, in some embodiments, the water supply may be in fluid communication with removable containers, storage tanks, etc. internally/externally to the refrigerator. To this end, the refrigerator is also provided with a water supply tube/line6to supply water from an external water supply source5to the water cartridge(s)20, refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, and a water discharge tube/line7to supply water customized by the one or more water cartridges to the ice maker3and dispenser4, or the like. The embodiments shown and described can be utilized with many types and styles of refrigerators and/or refrigerator cartridge head assemblies, including, without limitation, described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,115,920, issued Aug. 25, 2015, and CN218511279, published Feb. 21, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Refrigerator10may include a control panel, which in the illustrated embodiment forms at least a portion of the dispenser4. Control panel2may include various input/output controls such as buttons, indicator lights, alphanumeric displays, dot matrix displays, touch-sensitive displays, etc. for interacting with a user. In other embodiments, control panel2may be separate from dispenser4(e.g. on a door), and in other embodiments, multiple control panels may be provided. Further, in some embodiments audio feedback may be provided to a user via one or more speakers, and in some embodiments, user input may be received via a spoken or gesture-based interface. Additional user controls may also be provided elsewhere on refrigerator10, e.g., within fresh food and/or freezer compartments14,16. In addition, refrigerator10may be controllable remotely, e.g., via a smartphone, tablet, personal digital assistant or other networked computing device, e.g., using a web interface or a dedicated app.

A refrigerator consistent with the invention also generally includes one or more controllers1configured to control a refrigeration system as well as manage interaction with a user. A refrigerator10may include a controller1that receives inputs from a number of components (e.g. water cartridge(s), electronic devices) and drives a number of components in response thereto. Controller may, for example, include one or more processors and a memory within which may be stored program code for execution by the one or more processors. The memory may be embedded in controller, but may also be considered to include volatile and/or non-volatile memories, cache memories, flash memories, programmable read-only memories, read-only memories, etc., as well as memory storage physically located elsewhere from controller, e.g., in a mass storage device or on a remote computer interfaced with controller.

A controller1may be interfaced with various components, including a cooling or refrigeration system, an ice/water system (e.g. water cartridge, dispenser, ice maker, water delivery/handling devices, electronic devices, etc.), one or more user controls for receiving user input (e.g., various combinations of switches, knobs, buttons, sliders, touchscreens or touch-sensitive displays, microphones or audio input devices, image capture devices, etc.), and one or more user displays (including various indicators, graphical displays, textual displays, speakers, etc.), as well as various additional components suitable for use in a refrigerator, e.g., interior and/or exterior lighting, among others. At least a portion of user controls and user displays may be disposed, for example, on control panel2ofFIG.1.

Controller may also be interfaced with various sensors/devices located to sense environmental conditions inside of and/or external to refrigerator10, e.g., one or more temperature sensors, humidity sensors, water cartridge20, electronic devices78, etc. Such sensors may be internal or external to refrigerator10, and may be coupled wirelessly to controller in some embodiments. Sensors may also include additional types of sensors such as door switches, switches that sense when a portion of an ice dispenser and/or water cartridge(s) has been removed, type(s) of water cartridge being used, characteristics/status of water cartridge/electronic devices, and other status sensors, as will become more apparent below.

In some embodiments, controller1may also be coupled to one or more network interfaces, e.g., for interfacing with external devices via wired and/or wireless networks such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, cellular and other suitable networks. Network may incorporate in some embodiments a home automation network, and various communication protocols may be supported, including various types of home automation communication protocols. In other embodiments, other wireless protocols, e.g., Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, may be used.

In some embodiments, refrigerator10may be interfaced with one or more user devices over network, e.g., computers, tablets, smart phones, wearable devices, etc., and through which refrigerator10may be controlled and/or refrigerator10may provide user feedback.

In some embodiments, the controller may operate under the control of an operating system and may execute or otherwise rely upon various computer software applications, components, programs, objects, modules, data structures, etc. In addition, controller may also incorporate hardware logic to implement some or all of the functionality disclosed herein. Further, in some embodiments, the sequences of operations performed by controller to implement the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented using program code including one or more instructions that are resident at various times in various memory and storage devices, and that, when read and executed by one or more hardware-based processors, perform the operations embodying desired functionality. Moreover, in some embodiments, such program code may be distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that the invention applies equally regardless of the particular type of computer readable media used to actually carry out the distribution, including, for example, non-transitory computer readable storage media. In addition, it will be appreciated that the various operations described herein may be combined, split, reordered, reversed, varied, omitted, parallelized and/or supplemented with other techniques known in the art, and therefore, the invention is not limited to the particular sequences of operations described herein.

Now turning toFIGS.1-5, in some embodiments, one or more water cartridges20may be used in fluid communication with the water supply (e.g. external water supply source5, internal) of the refrigerator10. The one or more water cartridges20(e.g. first20a, second20b, third20c, fourth20d, etc.) may be used alone, in fluid communication with another water cartridge, or in a particular upstream/downstream configuration to effect a change and/or provide/remove different properties to the water supply of the refrigerator. The one or more water cartridges20may customize the water therein for/with purity, filtration, flavoring, sanitization, additive, removal, color, temperature, storage capacity, etc. For example, a first water cartridge20amay include a first filter41(e.g. one or more properties). A second water cartridge20bmay include a second filter (e.g. one or more properties). The first filter41may be the same or different from the second filter of the second water cartridge20b. A third water cartridge20cmay include a flavoring42(e.g. grape, lemon, lime, etc.). A fourth water cartridge20dmay include a tank/reservoir43(e.g. first volume, second volume, third volume, etc.). A fifth water cartridge20emay include an additive or sanitizer44(e.g. chlorine, fluoride, disinfectants, carbonation, sweetener, coloring, medicine, caffeine, alcohol, etc.). Further, the order or sequence and/or quantity of the one or more water cartridges20may effect a change to the water supply of the refrigerator or achieve a predetermined or desired consumer outcome. For example, a single water cartridge may be used to change one or more properties of the water. Further, in some implementations as shown inFIGS.1-3, two water cartridges20(e.g. in series) may be used/connected/assembled together. The first water cartridge (e.g.20a) may be the same or different from the second water cartridge (e.g.20d). For example, the upstream or first water cartridge20amay include a first filter41and the downstream or second water cartridge20bmay include a tank43(e.g. sanitizer44, second filter41, or flavoring42). Alternatively, the second water cartridge may be positioned upstream of the first water cartridge in some embodiments. Further, for example as shown inFIGS.4and5, three or more water cartridges20(e.g. in series) may be used or coupled (e.g. fluidly) together. One or more of the three water cartridge may be the same or different from the remaining water cartridges. As shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.4and5, the upstream or first water cartridge20amay include a filter41, the middle or second water cartridge20(e.g.20c) may include a flavoring42, and the last, downstream or third water cartridge20(e.g.20c) may include an additive/sanitizer44. Alternatively, the upstream or first water cartridge may include a sanitizer, the middle or second water cartridge may be a tank, and the last, downstream or third water cartridge may include a flavoring. These examples of order/sequence/quantity of water cartridge's contents should not be construed as limiting, other configurations and/or properties may be added/removed from or used with the water supply.

The one or more water cartridges20, or portions thereof, may be a variety of shapes, sizes, quantities, properties, constructions, and/or positions in the appliance (e.g. relative to one or more water handling/delivery devices50) and still be within the scope of the invention. For example, one water cartridge20may be used, two water cartridges20may be used, three water cartridges20may be used, four water cartridges20may be used, or five or more water cartridges20may be used. Further, filters of different sizes (e.g. lengths) may be used/coupled together. For example, two half sized filters (e.g. small length) in length may be coupled together to fill/replace a fluid position/length of a longer length cartridge (e.g. large length filter).

In some implementations, the one or more water cartridges20may be in fluid communication with one or more water delivery/handling devices50(e.g. internal, external) of the refrigerator10, such as but is not limited to one or more ice makers3, one or more dispensers4, one or more containers/tanks8(e.g. removable, non-removeable, internal, external), filter, etc. Although the one or more water cartridges20are shown as positioned within the door18, it should be understood that the one or more water cartridges may be in a variety of positions with the refrigerator10. For example, the one or more water cartridges20may be positioned in the casing/housing12. Further, the one or more water cartridges20and/or one or more refrigerator cartridge head assemblies30may be positioned upstream from one or more handling/delivery devices50and/or downstream from one or more handling/delivery devices50. Although the one or more water cartridges are shown vertically orientated or in communication with each other, other orientations are still within the scope of the invention. For example, the one or more water cartridges may be horizontally orientated in some embodiments.

In some implementations, the refrigerator10and/or water system, or portions thereof, may include one or more cartridge head assemblies (e.g. refrigerator). The refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, if used, and/or water cartridge(s)20may be in fluid communication with at least one water supply line6(e.g. upstream) and/or at least one water discharge line7(e.g. downstream). The refrigerator cartridge head assembly30and/or water cartridge(s)20may be upstream of the one or more water handling/delivery devices50(e.g. ice maker, dispenser, storage tanks, filters, containers, etc.). Alternatively, or in combination with, the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30and/or water cartridge(s)20may be downstream of one or more water handling/delivery devices. The refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, or portions thereof, may releasably couple (e.g. fluid communication) with one or more water cartridges20. The refrigerator cartridge head assembly may be a variety of shapes, sizes, quantities, constructions, and orientations/positions within the refrigerator and still be within the scope of the invention.

In some implementations, a water cartridge and/or refrigerator, or portions thereof, may include/define/actuate one or more valves31, or portions thereof, that may fluidly connect (e.g. open, close) the water cartridge with the refrigerator. In the one embodiment shown in the figures, the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30may be or include one or more valves31that may be in a first configuration or normally open (e.g. bypass passage open) in fluid communication between the water supply line6and the water discharge line7and a second configuration (e.g. bypass passage closed) in fluid communication with the one or more water cartridges20. The first configuration may occur when the one or more water cartridges20is disconnected from the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30(seeFIGS.3and5). The second configuration may occur when the one or more water cartridges20(e.g. coupler) is coupled to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30(seeFIGS.1,2, and4. Further in the second configuration, the water is in fluid communication from the water supply line6through the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, the one or more water cartridges20, and then through the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30to the water discharge line7. When in the second configuration or coupled to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, the one or more water cartridges20are in fluid communication with each other (e.g. in series) between the water supply line and the water discharge line. Although not shown, the cartridges may be in parallel communication in some embodiments.

In some implementations as shown inFIGS.1,2, and4, refrigerator cartridge head assembly30may be releasably coupled to the one or more water cartridges20in the second configuration. A body30aof the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30may be provided with a first inlet32and a first inlet passage33, through which water from the water supply source5and/or water supply line6is introduced. The body30ais also provided with a first outlet36and a first outlet passage37, through which water treated or circulated through the one or more water cartridges20is discharged to the water handling/delivery devices50and/or water discharge line7. A bypass passage35, which communicates the first inlet passage33and first outlet passage37when the one or more water cartridges20are disconnected therefrom or when in a first configuration, is also provided at the body30a.

In some implementations when the one or more water cartridges20are coupled with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30or body30a, the water cartridge20(e.g. first) or body23/coupler40(e.g. first) is received in or coupled to the body30aor refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. The coupler40, if used, may include one or more passages. The coupler or body40(e.g. first) is formed with a first communicating passage40ato communicate the first inlet passage33and the water cartridge20(e.g. first, interior, one or more portions/chambers) and downstream water cartridges20(e.g. second, third, etc., interior, one or more portions/chambers), if any, and a second communicating passage40bto communicate the first outlet passage37and the water cartridge (e.g. first, interior) and downstream water cartridges(e.g. second, third, etc.), if any.

In some implementations, the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, valves31, and/or body30amay include one or more valve units31aare provided at each of the communicating passages33and37. The valve units31afunction to open or close the first inlet passage33and first communicating passage40a, and the first outlet passage37and second communicating passage40b, respectively.

In some implementations, each valve unit31aincludes a valve stem31b, a support member31cto support the valve stem31b, a first elastic member31dto elastically support the valve stem31bbetween the valve stem31band the support member31c, and a second sealing member31eand a third sealing member31farranged around an outer peripheral surface of the valve stem31b. The first elastic member31delastically supports the valve stem31bwhen the water cartridge20is mounted to or separated from the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. Third sealing members31fseal off or closes the bypass passage35(e.g. second configuration, unsealed second sealing member31e) to allow water to flow from the first inlet passage33into the first communication passage40a, now open, or coupler/water cartridge and into the interior24(e.g. inner portion, outer portion) or body23of the first water cartridge and into the second communication passage40b, now open, or coupler40before returning through the first outlet passage37. The third sealing members31funseal or opens the bypass passage35(e.g. first configuration) to allow water to flow through the bypass while closing the first inlet/outlet passages33,37via the second sealing members31e.

In some implementations, the coupler40of the water cartridge20is fitted in the body30aof the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. When the coupler40is rotated (e.g. 90°) after being fitted into the socket/body30a, the coupler40(e.g. male) is engaged with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly or body (e.g. female), so that the coupler or water cartridge is coupled to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly.

In some implementations, the water cartridge20, or portions thereof, (e.g. coupler) actuate the one or more valves31or the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30when coupling thereto. When in the first configuration, the valve units maintain the bypass passage35in the open position, and the first inlet/outlet passages33,37are closed, and when in the second configuration when the water cartridge20is engaged to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30the valve(s) (e.g. valve units) allow water to flow from the first inlet passage33into the first communication passage40a, now open, or coupler/water cartridge and into the interior24(e.g. inner portion, outer portion) or body23of the first water cartridge and into the second communication passage40b, now open, or coupler40before returning through the first outlet passage37.

In some implementations, two or more water cartridges20may be connected, assembled, or in fluid communication with each other. The two or more water cartridges20may releasably connect/assemble to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30in fluid communication. The one or more water cartridges20may be connected to the water supply (e.g. refrigerator cartridge head assembly) at a single location as shown in the one embodiment. The water may flow into the first water cartridge20abefore entering the downstream water cartridge (e.g. second20b-20h, etc.). If a third water cartridge20cis connected in fluid communication with the second water cartridge20b, the water may flow into the third water cartridge after the second water cartridge. The two or more water cartridges may be connected to each other (e.g. in series, end to end). A first water cartridge may connect to a second water cartridge, a third water cartridge, etc.

In some implementations, a water cartridge (e.g. first, second, third, etc.) may include a body/housing23(e.g. elongated, cylindrical) having a first/upstream end21and an second/downstream end22(e.g. opposing). The water cartridge (e.g. first) may include a coupler40(e.g. first) on the first end21configured to releasably engage/connect to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30and/or another water cartridge20(e.g. cartridge head assembly60of another/second water cartridge). The coupler40may be a variety of shapes, sizes, quantities, and constructions and still be within the scope of the invention to releasably/fluidly couple to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30and/or another water cartridge20(e.g. second end, cartridge head assembly60). The water cartridge20(e.g. first) may include a cartridge head assembly60(e.g. first) on the second end22to releasably engage or configure to receive the coupler40(e.g. second) of another/second water cartridge20. The cartridge head assembly60of the water cartridge may be a variety of shapes, sizes, quantities, and constructions and still be within the scope of the invention to releasably couple to another/downstream water cartridge (e.g. first end, coupler).

In some implementations, an upstream water cartridge and/or a downstream water cartridge, or portions thereof, may include/define/actuate one or more valves61, or portions thereof, that may fluidly connect (e.g. open, close) the upstream water cartridge with the downstream water cartridge. In the one embodiment shown in the figures, the water cartridge20and/or cartridge head assembly60may include a first configuration and a second configuration wherein one or more valves61are operated between open and closed positions. When in the first configuration an inlet passage64and outlet passage67of the cartridge head assembly is closed and the bypass passage65is open. When in the second configuration the outlet passage67and/or inlet passage64of the cartridge head assembly60is open, with the bypass passage65closed, and configured to be in fluid communication with a second water cartridge. In the first configuration, one or more valves61(e.g. value units) of the cartridge head assembly60are normally closed when the downstream water cartridge (e.g. coupler) is not connected to the cartridge head assembly60of the upstream water cartridge. In the second configuration when the coupler40or another water cartridge20is connected (e.g. fluidly) to the cartridge head assembly, the one or more valves61(e.g. valve units61a) and/or passages (e.g.64,67) are open to be in fluid communication with the downstream water cartridge (e.g. interior24, contents, volume, etc.). The valve unit61amay include a stem61b, support member61c, elastic member61d, sealing member61f, and/or sealing member(s)61ein some embodiments.

In some implementations, a second water cartridge20b(e.g.20c-20-h, etc.), if used, may have a housing23having a first end21and a second end22. The first end21of the second water cartridge20bmay include a second coupler40releasably connected to the cartridge head assembly60(e.g. first) of a first/upstream water cartridge20abetween a first configuration wherein the second water cartridge is not in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly60and/or first water cartridge20a(seeFIGS.3and5) and a second configuration wherein the second water cartridge20bis in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly60and/or first water cartridge20a(seeFIGS.1,2, and4). Coupling or engaging the second water cartridge20b(e.g. second coupler), with or without additional water cartridges20, to the first cartridge head assembly60actuates the one or more valves61(e.g. units, passages, inlet, outlets) from the closed/first configuration to the open/second configuration. In the second configuration, the downstream water cartridge(s)20bis in fluid communication downstream of the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, first water cartridge20a(e.g. inner portion, outer/downstream portion), first coupler40/cartridge head assembly60of the first water cartridge20a, inlet passage and/or outlet passage of the first coupler40, and/or inlet/outlet of the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. The interior24or function (e.g. properties applied to or removed from the water supply) of the first water cartridge and the second/additional water cartridge(s) may be different or the same in some embodiments. The user may select the type/function/sequence/quantities of the water cartridge(s) for one or more applications, or in some implementations it may be predetermined. Further, the user may replace/change/add/remove one or more water cartridges20to change the properties of the water supply/system of the refrigerator in some embodiments.

In some implementations, the water cartridge20, or portions thereof, (e.g. coupler) actuate the one or more valves61or the cartridge head assembly60when coupling thereto. When in the first configuration, the valve units61maintain the bypass passage65in the open position, and the inlet/outlet passages64,67are closed. The sealing members61fare unsealed with the bypass passage65, while the sealing members61eengage and seal the inlet/outlet passages64,67. The bypass passage is in fluid communication between the inner portion/chamber23aand the outer portion/chamber23bwhen no downstream water cartridge is fluidly connected. As such, the fluid may then flow from the outer portion23binto the upstream coupler40, upstream water cartridge (e.g.60,23b), if any, and/or refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. When in the second configuration when the second water cartridge20bis engaged to the cartridge head assembly60the valve(s) (e.g. valve units61) allow water to flow from the inner portion/chamber23aof the first water cartridge20aand the inlet62/inlet passage63into the first communication passage40a, now open, or downstream coupler/water cartridge20band into the inner portion23aor body23of the second water cartridge20band into the outer portion23bof the second water cartridge, if the bypass passage65is open (e.g. no more downstream water cartridges are connected). The flow of fluid then continues from the outer portion23bof the second water cartridge20bthrough the second communication passage40b, now open, or coupler40before returning through the outlet63/outlet passage67to the first water cartridge20a(e.g. outer portion23b). Alternatively if the bypass passage65is closed, for example, by coupling a third water cartridge20c, the water would flow from the inner portion23aof the second water cartridge20bthrough the now open inlet62or inlet passage63of the cartridge head assembly60of the second water cartridge20bto the inner portion23aof the third water cartridge20cvia the coupler40of the third water cartridge20c. For example, as shown inFIG.2, the cartridge head assembly60of the fourth water cartridge20dis in the first configuration, wherein the bypass passage65is open and the inlet/out passages64,67are closed, and the cartridge head assembly60of the first water cartridge20ais in the second configuration, wherein the bypass passage65is closed and the inlet/out passages64,67are open. Further for example, as shown inFIG.4, the cartridge head assembly60of the fifth water cartridge20eis in the first configuration, wherein the bypass passage65is open and the inlet/out passages64,67are closed, and the cartridge head assembly60of the first water cartridge20aand third water cartridge20cis in the second configuration, wherein the bypass passage65is closed and the inlet/out passages64,67are open.

In some implementations, if a second water cartridge is used in combination with a first water cartridge the first coupler and the second coupler may be the same. Further, in some embodiments, the first cartridge head assembly and the second cartridge head assembly may be the same. Alternatively, in some implementations, the water cartridges, or portions thereof, may be different. For example, the couplers and/or cartridge head assemblies may be different. Although the refrigerator cartridge head assembly is shown as different than the cartridge head assembly of the water cartridge, they may be the same in some embodiments.

In use, the refrigerator10may supply water to the one or more water delivery/handling devices50when one or more water cartridges20are not connected to or in the first configuration with the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30. When the user connects one or more water cartridges20to at least one refrigerator cartridge head assembly30, the refrigerator head cartridge head assembly is in fluid communication with the one or more water cartridges in the second configuration. A single water cartridge may be connected to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30in some applications. In other applications, the user or refrigerator may connect a plurality of water cartridges to the refrigerator cartridge heads assembly30. Fluidly/releasably connecting the coupler40, first end21, or water cartridge20to the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30or cartridge head assembly60, second end22, or another water cartridge(s) actuates the one or more valves31,61(e.g. inlet, outlets, passageways(s)) between a closed position and an open position. One or more of water cartridges20or couplers40may be fluidly/releasably disconnected from the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30or cartridge head assembly60, second end22, or another water cartridge(s)20actuating the one or more valves31,61(e.g. inlet, outlets, passageways(s)) between a closed position and an open position. The water supply may be customized by selecting the contents/function/properties of the one or more water cartridges20. For example, the water cartridges (e.g. combined end to end, in one or more quantities, in one or more orders) may include a filter, a water/storage tank, a sanitizer, and/or additive or the like in one or more combinations to provide different properties to the water supply and/or one or more water delivery/handling devices. Further, the user may change/remove the order and/or contents of the water cartridges to achieve different properties. Further, the user may replace one or more water cartridges to achieve different properties or to replenish the contents of the replaced water cartridge to achieve the same properties. For example, if a grape flavor water cartridge is depleted the user may replace with another grape flavor water cartridge/refill or replace with an orange flavor water cartridge.

It should be understood that the releasable couplings between water cartridges and/or between the water cartridge and the refrigerator (e.g. refrigerator cartridge head assembly, water supply) may be of a variety of shapes, sizes, quantities, constructions, positions, movement to lock/unlock, and flow passages and still be within the scope of the invention. For example, a variety of valves may be used. Further, the coupling to engage/disengage may be a push and turn engagement in some embodiments. For example, one or more seals may be used.

In some implementations, one or more water cartridges20(e.g. first, second, third, etc.) may be electrically connected to the appliance and/or each other. At least one water cartridge20may include one or more electronic or electrical connectors/devices70/78creating/having electrical communication (e.g. power, signals, transmitter, electronic devices) between the appliance10(e.g. refrigerator) and the water cartridge(s)20and/or between two or more water cartridges20. For example, the one or more cartridges20may be electrically connected/fluidly connected/mechanically connected to the appliance10(e.g. refrigerator) and each subsequent water cartridge20, if used.

In some implementations, the one or more water cartridges20may include one or more electronic devices78internal/external to the cartridge20(e.g. housing, first end, second end). The characteristics/status of the one or more electronic devices78and/or water cartridges20, or portions thereof, may be in communication with the controller1. The electronic device(s)78may be in a variety of positions within the water cartridge20. Although the electronic devices78are shown as internal to the cartridge20in the embodiments shown, it should be understood that the electronic device(s) may be external and/or both internal and external in some embodiments. The electronic devices, if used, in one or more of the one or more water cartridges may be a variety of positions, shapes, sizes, quantities, and constructions and still be within the scope of the invention. The electrical, signal, and/or energized communication of the water cartridge(s)20and/or electronic device(s)78may be used when in fluid/electrical/mechanical communication and/or not in fluid/electrical/mechanical communication with adjacent water cartridges and/or appliance (e.g. water supply). The one or more electronic devices78may be, but is not limited to, flow sensors, UV lighting (e.g. sanitization), data storage, LEDS, lighting (e.g. visibility, status updates on filter and/or flavor packet life), sound (e.g. feedback for install, alerts, alarms), solenoids for measured dispense of water to the consumer, solenoids for measured dispense of additives within the cartridge (e.g., flavorings, minerals, alcohol, etc.), sensor (e.g. pressure, pH, TDS, temperature, filter life, pressure drop, and/or hardness/mineral content), knock-off or counterfeit prevention sensor, energize water for mineral flocculation, etc. In some embodiments as shown inFIGS.9and10, the water cartridge(s)20,20cmay be energized without a device. For example, the water cartridge20cas shown inFIG.9is in electrical communication between the water cartridges upstream and downstream therefrom. The electrical communication of a water cartridge with (FIGS.6-11) or without (FIGS.9and10) an electronic device may energize a downstream water cartridge, if connected thereto. In other embodiments, the electrical communication of a water cartridge20with (FIG.11) or without (FIGS. 6-10) an electrical device may include one or more signal transmitters79(e.g. where power delivery is not used).

In some implementations, the water cartridge(s)20, or portions thereof (e.g. electronic device(s)), and/or electrical communication (e.g. power, signal, etc.) may be connected or include a variety of circuits (e.g. series, parallel). The one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second, third, etc.), circuits/wires, and/or electronic devices78may be connected or be in parallel77as shown in the one embodiment inFIG.6-10. The one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second, third, etc.), circuits/wires, and/or electronic devices78may be connected or be in in series76as shown in the one embodiment inFIG.11. The one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second, third, etc.), or portions thereof, may be in series76and/or parallel77as shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.6-11. The one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second, third, etc.), circuits/wires, and/or electronic devices may be connected or include one or more signal transmitters79(e.g. signal, data) as shown in the one embodiment inFIG.11. The one or more signal transmitters79may be used alone or in combination with another circuit (e.g. series76and/or in parallel77) in the one or more water cartridges. Although not shown, the one or more cartridges20, or portions thereof, (e.g. electronic device(s)) may be powered separately from each other rather than powered together in the one embodiment shown in the Figures. The electricity in communication with the one or more water cartridges, or portions thereof, may be AC, DC, or combination thereof. The quantity, wires, and/or types of contacts may vary depending on the electricity or electrical communication of the cartridge/appliance, or portions thereof. Although the power is shown as AC, it should be understood that DC may be used in some embodiments.

In some implementations, the water cartridge(s)20, circuits/wire(s) (e.g.76,77,79), appliance10, and/or the one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second, third, refrigerator, etc.) may include a variety of electrical interfaces or contacts75to releasably engage/connect (e.g. electrically) between the water cartridges20, or portions thereof, and/or water cartridge20, or portions thereof, and appliance10, or portions thereof, (e.g. cartridge head assembly, connectors). The one or more electrical connectors70(e.g. contacts75) of the electrical interface may be contacts75(e.g. female/male, releasably) engaging and disengaging therebetween. The one or more electrical contacts75may releasably engage the corresponding one or more electrical contacts75. In some embodiments, the one or more refrigerator and/or electrical connectors70(e.g. second, refrigerator, one or more contacts) of the refrigerator10and/or water cartridge20(e.g. second end of the first water cartridge, second water cartridge, third water cartridge, . . . ) may be a target disk or plate and the other electrical connector/engagement (e.g. first, one or more contacts) of the water cartridge (e.g. first end of the first water cartridge, second water cartridge, third water cartridge, . . . ) may be a pogo pin or springed connector (e.g. second). For example, the refrigerator electrical connector70,70amay be a target disk/plate in releasable contact with the pogo pin of the first/second/third water cartridge20a-c(e.g. first end21, first electrical connector70). Correspondingly, the second end22and/or second electrical connector70may be a target disk/plate in releasable contact with a downstream water cartridge20or first end21. In the embodiments shown, the mechanically coupling (e.g. twisting, rotation, first configuration, second configuration) of the water cartridge20to the cartridge head assembly30,60of the appliance or upstream water cartridge releasably engage/disengage the corresponding electrical connectors/contacts therebetween and/or the fluid communication. However, it should be understood that manual attachment of wire plugs or electrical connectors may be used instead of automatic engagement of the electrical connectors when mechanically/fluidly coupling. Although the upstream or first end electrical connectors and second end electrical connectors are shown to be the same for each water cartridge, it should be understood that the electrical connectors may be different (e.g. shape, size, position, quantity). For example in some implementations, the order of specific water cartridges could be maintained or predetermined or stopped based on the different connectors. The circuits, wires, electronic devices, and/or electrical connectors, or portions thereof, may be waterproof.

In some implementations, the water cartridge(s) and/or body23, or portions thereof, may include one or more first electrical connectors70,70b(e.g. upstream) in electrical communication (e.g. wire(s), electronic device(s), power, signal) with one or more second electrical connectors70,70c(e.g. downstream). In the one embodiment shown inFIGS.6-11, the upstream/first end21may include the one or more first electrical connectors70,70band the downstream/second end22may include the one or more second electrical connectors70,70c. The one or more first electrical connectors70,70bmay be adjacent the coupler40(e.g. first, second, third, etc.) of the water cartridge(s)20and may be configured to engage the refrigerator cartridge head assembly30(e.g. electrical connectors, cable harness) and/or another/upstream water cartridge (e.g. second end, coupler, electrical connectors). The one or more second electrical connectors70,70cmay be adjacent the cartridge head assembly60(e.g. first, second, third, etc.) of the water cartridge(s) and may be configured to engage another/downstream water cartridge (e.g. first end, coupler, electrical connectors). The contacts75or electrical connectors70may be on or accessible from the outer periphery of the housing23.

In some implementations, the water cartridge(s)20may include one or more electronic devices78. The one or more electronic devices78of one or more water cartridges20may be electrically in communication with each other, appliance10, water cartridge(s), circuits, and/or one or more connectors70(e.g. upstream, downstream) when the water cartridges are mechanically/electrically/fluidly connected. The electronic devices78, if used, and/or water cartridges20may be connected in series or parallel. The water cartridge20may include a signal transmitter79and/or connectors70having a signal to connect electrically between water cartridges and/or between the water cartridge and the appliance, or portions thereof. In some embodiments as shown inFIG.11, the signal transmitter79and one or more electronic devices78may be used in the water cartridge20. In other embodiments, only a signal transmitter may be used. In some embodiments, when no electronic devices are used, the water cartridge20c(seeFIG.10) may include only power therethrough between water cartridges. In some embodiments not shown, the signal transmitter may be used with only power therethrough, without electronic devices. It should be understood, that water cartridges without electrical communication may still be used with filter cartridges having electrical communication in some implementations. For example, a water cartridge without electrical communication may be added downstream of one or more water cartridges having electrical communication therebetween.

In some implementations, the water cartridge(s)20and/or body23, or portions thereof, may include one or more electrical connectors70or contacts75(e.g. upstream, downstream, first, second) releasably engaging (e.g. wire(s), electronic device(s), power, signal) with one or more electrical connectors70of another water cartridge (e.g. upstream, downstream) and/or an appliance/refrigerator electrical connectors70. The connectors70of the corresponding connectors may electrically engage/disengage automatically with the appliance and/or adjacent water cartridge when fluidly/mechanical engaging/disengaging. For example when in the second configuration, the first coupler40is in fluid communication with the appliance cartridge head assembly30(e.g. refrigerator) and the one or more first electrical connectors70,70bare configured to be in electrical communication with the refrigerator10and/or refrigerator electrical connectors70,70a. In some embodiments, when the first coupler40of the upstream water cartridge20is in the first configuration the first coupler and/or the electrical connectors may not be in communication (e.g. electrical, mechanical) with the refrigerator and/or refrigerator electrical connectors. Further for example when in the second configuration, the second coupler40of a downstream water cartridge20is in fluid communication with the first cartridge head assembly of the upstream water cartridge and the one or more first electrical connectors of the downstream water cartridge is configured to be in electrical communication with the second electrical connectors of the upstream water cartridge. In some embodiments, when the second coupler of the downstream water cartridge is in the first configuration the second coupler and/or the electrical connectors may not be in communication (e.g. electrical, mechanical) with the upstream water cartridge and/or electrical connectors of the upstream electrical connectors. Further, the first cartridge head assembly of the upstream water cartridge would be closed or not in communication (e.g. electrically, fluidly, mechanically) when the downstream water cartridge is not connected.

As shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.6-8, the water cartridges are in fluid and electrical communication with each other when connected thereto. The water cartridges20are in fluid communication with the water supply5and electrical communication to the electrical supply9(e.g. internal, external, electrical supply source). Each upstream water cartridge20is in fluid and electrical communication with the adjacent or successive downstream water cartridge20connected thereto, if any. The first water cartridge20,20aincludes the electrical connectors70,70b(e.g. male, female, first) to the appliance10, or portions thereof, and/or corresponding electrical connectors70,70a(e.g. male, female, refrigerator, appliance) as well as one or more electrical connectors70,70c(e.g. male, female, second). The one or more electrical connectors70are connected to or configured to connect to the corresponding electrical connectors70b(e.g. male, female, first) of the fourth water cartridge20ddownstream and fluidly connected thereto. The one or more electrical connectors70of the fourth water cartridge20dare not electrically connected to another downstream water cartridge, however the cartridge is configured to releasably engage (e.g. fluidly, electrically, mechanically) another downstream water cartridge. The first water cartridge20,20a, as shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.6-8, includes at least two electronic devices78, the same or different, connected to the electrical connectors70(e.g.70b,70c) in parallel. The fourth water cartridge20,20d, as shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.6-8, includes at least one electronic device78connected to the electrical connectors70(e.g.70b,70c) in parallel. The electronic device of the fourth water cartridge may be the same or different than one of the electronic devices of the first water cartridge. Although a plurality of electronic devices may be connected with the same circuit (e.g. parallel, series) within a water cartridge (e.g.20d), one or more electronic devices78may have a first circuit separated from one or more electronic devices78having a second circuit within a single water cartridge. Although the devices may be in communication with each other in parallel, it should be understood that the circuit may be in series. The corresponding electrical connectors (e.g. appliance, refrigerator, water cartridge) may be releasably engaged/disengaged when mechanically/fluidly connecting therebetween.

As shown in the one embodiment inFIGS.9-10, the water cartridges are in fluid and electrical communication with each other when connected thereto. The water cartridges20are in electrical communication with each other. The third water cartridge20,20cillustrates one or more connectors70(e.g. first, second) in parallel, without having one or more electronic devices, to energize the downstream fifth water cartridge20,20e. The one embodiment of the first water cartridge20aincludes at least one electronic device78, but shown as at least two electronic devices78.

As shown in the one embodiment inFIG.11, at least one circuit of the water cartridge20may be in series. The water cartridge20is illustrated having at least one electronic device78electrically connected between the electrical connectors70. Further, at least one signal transmitter79is electrically connected between another or separate electrical connectors70(e.g. first, second). The one or more signal transmitters may be used with additional circuits having electronic devices as shown, or without electronic devices.

Although the refrigerator/appliance cartridge head assembly is shown having the one or more electrical contacts75or connectors70, the electrical connector70,70aof the appliance10may be of a variety of positions, quantities, shapes, sizes, and constructions. For example, the appliance cartridge head assembly may be a wire harness. Further, the appliance/refrigerator electrical connector70,70amay be separate from the cartridge head assembly in some embodiment.

In use, the first water cartridge20,20a, or portions thereof, may be engaged/disengaged to the appliance (e.g. refrigerator, cartridge head assembly, water cartridge) by the user and mechanically, fluidly, and/or electrically be connected/disconnected to or in communication with the appliance/water cartridge, or portions thereof. If desired, one or more additional water cartridges (e.g. first, second, third, etc.) may be engaged/disengaged to the first or upstream water cartridge(s)20,20aby the user and mechanically, fluidly, and/or electrically be connected/disconnected to or in communication with the appliance/water cartridge(s), or portions thereof. It should be understood that a single water cartridge and/or a plurality of water cartridges, assembled in communication therebetween, may be engaged/disengaged (e.g. fluid, mechanical, electrical, or combinations thereof) with the appliance/water cartridge(s).

It will be appreciated that various additional modifications may be made to the embodiments discussed herein, and that a number of the concepts disclosed herein may be used in combination with one another or may be used separately. Therefore, the invention lies in the claims hereinafter appended.