Field replaceable fluid element methods and systems for fluidic processors

Steam cylinders for humidifiers require periodic replacement as well as replacement to address failures etc. However, field replacement of steam cylinders is not a straight-forward operation and there is significant risk and potential for damage to the replacement cylinder and the humidifier as fluidic seals for the water inlet and steam outlet must be unmade as well as electrical connections for heater elements, level sensors etc. Accordingly, embodiments of the invention provide solutions for the deployment of replacement cylinders etc. for domestic, retail, and commercial systems that reduce the likelihood of damage to the fluidic seals, electrical connectors etc.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to fluidic elements for fluidic processors and more particularly to the design and implementation of field replaceable fluidic elements for fluidic processors such as electrode humidifier cylinders for humidifiers.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A humidifier is a device that increases humidity (moisture) in a single room or an entire building. Point-of-use humidifiers are commonly used to humidify a single room, while whole-house or furnace humidifiers, which connect to a building's home's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, provide humidity to the building. Large humidifiers are used in commercial, institutional, or industrial contexts, often as part of a large HVAC system.

The need for humidifiers arises in low humidity environments which may occur in hot, dry desert climates, or indoors in artificially heated spaces. In winter, especially when cold outside air is heated indoors, the humidity may drop as low as 10-20%. This low humidity can cause adverse health effects for humans and animals within these environments either as workers, visitors, or residents. Industrial humidifiers may also be used when a specific humidity level must be maintained to achieve specific requirements such as preventing static electricity buildup or preserving material properties (e.g. art galleries, museums, libraries, and their associated storage). Whilst evaporative humidifiers, natural humidifiers, vapourizing humidifiers, impeller humidifiers and ultrasonic humidifiers are all common types, it is the vapourizing humidifier (or vapourizer, steam humidifier, warm mist humidifier) that dominates the industry for most commercial humidification systems.

In operation, a vapourizing humidifier comprises a water tank that is at least partially filled with water, creating a water reservoir and a vapour region above the water reservoir within water tank. Heat for heating the water within the water tank is provided by a means such as from an electrical immersion heater or mains voltage electrodes immersed in the water on smaller domestic units or a heat exchanger transferring heat from hot combustion gases of oil or gas in larger commercial units. The water vapour, or steam, forms within water tank in the vapour region above the water reservoir. This vapour region is fluidly connected to a steam tube or steam nozzle that passes through the upper region of the water tank.

However, humidification systems historically were associated with time-consuming and costly maintenance required to remove the minerals typically left behind when water is boiled. Operators require a humidifier that can create clean steam and sustain long-term efficient operation. Accordingly, over forty years the applicant established electrode based humidifiers with a disposable cylinder to meet client expectations. As clean steam is produced, the in-steam cylinder minerals are removed in intervals and through an automatic drain system. The Applicant's patented auto-adaptive control system is designed to produce rated output capacity until the very end of a functioning cylinder life is reached. Once a cylinder is no longer functioning it is effortlessly removed and replaced with a new powerful, clean cylinder. In many humidifiers complete disassembly is required for cleaning through the use of hazardous cleaning substances to fully remove the minerals. In the Applicant's designed humidifiers the cylinder is removed and replaced so that customer maintenance costs are reduced. Further, when the cylinders are produced of inert plastics and retain only the water borne minerals, disposal problems are minimal.

However, such field replacement of steam cylinders is still not a straight-forward operation and there is significant risk and potential for damage to the replacement cylinder and the humidifier as fluidic seals for the water inlet and steam outlet must be unmade and made for the old and new cylinder as well as electrical connections for heater elements, level sensors etc. Similar issues exist with other elements disposed within fluidic processing systems.

Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide consumers and maintenance personnel with means to deploy replacement cylinders etc. for domestic, retail, and commercial systems that reduces the likelihood of damage to the fluidic seals, electrical connectors etc. which can at a minimum damage the replacement cylinder requiring that another replacement cylinder be acquired and deployed. Potentially, the damage is to the main unit's fluidic connections and/or electrical connections requiring that these be repaired or potentially a complete new system installed. Such damage thereby increasing downtime, costs, etc. as well as requiring maintenance personnel.

It would be beneficial for embodiments of the invention to operate not only with water/steam but with other materials that are evaporated for subsequent transfer in gaseous state and employed within a range of applications within the medical, chemical, environmental fields etc. It would be further beneficial for embodiments of the invention to work with cylinders/cartridges etc. other than humidifiers such as filters, etc.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to address fluidic elements for fluidic processors and more particularly to the design and implementation of field replaceable fluidic elements for fluidic processors such as electrode humidifier cylinders for humidifiers.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

the first fluidic assembly comprises:

a coupling for mating to the first fluid port; anda mounting for coupling the first fluidic assembly to a support within a system of which the cylinder forms part; whereinthe mounting and support allow the first fluidic assembly to tilt such that at least one of the first fluidic assembly can be titled away from the system to allow the cylinder to be removed from the system or the first fluidic assembly can be tilted towards the system after a cylinder has been mounted to the first fluidic assembly for installation to the system.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

the first fluidic assembly comprises:

a coupling for mating to the first fluid port; anda mounting for coupling the first fluidic assembly to a support within a system of which the cylinder forms part; whereinthe mounting and support allow the first fluidic assembly to be moved and tilted such that at least one of the first fluidic assembly can be moved and titled away from the system to allow the cylinder to be removed from the system or the first fluidic assembly can be moved tilted towards the system after a cylinder has been mounted to the first fluidic assembly for installation to the system.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

the first fluidic assembly comprises:

a third fluid port;a coupling;a mounting for coupling the first fluidic assembly to a support within a system of which the cylinder forms part; anda means for moving the coupling from a first position to a second position; whereinin the first position the coupling is lowered away from the cylinder allowing the cylinder to be inserted and removed from a system comprising the cylinder; andin the second position the coupling is raised providing a fluidic coupling between the first fluid port and the third fluid port.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

at least one of:

the first fluidic assembly comprises:

a third fluid port;a coupling;a mounting for coupling the first fluidic assembly to a support within a system of which the cylinder forms part; anda means for moving the coupling from a first position to a second position; whereinin the first position the coupling is lowered away from the cylinder allowing the cylinder to be inserted and removed from a system comprising the cylinder; andin the second position the coupling is raised providing a fluidic coupling between the first fluid port and the third fluid port; and
the second fluidic assembly comprises:a fourth fluid port;a coupling;a mounting for coupling the second fluidic assembly to a support within a system of which the cylinder forms part; anda means for moving the coupling from a first position to a second position; whereinin the first position the coupling is raised away from the cylinder allowing the cylinder to be inserted and removed from a system comprising the cylinder; andin the second position the coupling is lowered providing a fluidic coupling between the first fluid port and the third fluid port.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

at least one of:

removal of the cylinder from at least one of mating with at least one of the first fluidic assembly and the second fluidic assembly automatically disconnects at least one electrical connection of a plurality of electrical connections to the cylinder; andinsertion of the cylinder to at least one of mating with at least one of the first fluidic assembly and the second fluidic assembly automatically connects at least one electrical connection of a plurality of electrical connections to the cylinder.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising:

a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for at least one of providing and receiving a first fluid to the cylinder; and

a second fluidic assembly for coupling to the second fluid port for receiving a second fluid from a second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder; wherein

a system comprising the first fluidic assembly and the second fluidic assembly also comprises at least one fitting of a plurality of fittings, each fitting having a predetermined geometry matching a predetermined portion of the external geometry of the cylinder; andthe at least one fitting of the plurality of fittings aligns at least one of the first fluid port of the replaceable cylinder with the first fluidic assembly and the second fluid port of the replaceable cylinder with the second fluidic assembly.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a device comprising a first fluidic assembly for coupling to a first fluid port of a replaceable cylinder for providing a first fluid to the cylinder.

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention there is provided a method of accessing a replaceable cylinder within a fluidic processing system comprising mounting the replaceable cylinder upon a first mount which allows the replaceable cylinder to be pivoted away from the system allowing a user to remove the cylinder without interference from a shell of the system by lifting it away from the first mount.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is directed to humidifiers and more particularly to the design and implementation of fluid carry-over barriers within steam nozzles.

The ensuing description provides representative embodiment(s) only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the embodiment(s) will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an embodiment or embodiments of the invention. It being understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope as set forth in the appended claims. Accordingly, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the inventions and not the sole implementation. Various appearances of “one embodiment,” “an embodiment” or “some embodiments” do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments. Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention can also be implemented in a single embodiment or any combination of embodiments.

Reference in the specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, “some embodiments” or “other embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one embodiment, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions. The phraseology and terminology employed herein is not to be construed as limiting but is for descriptive purpose only. It is to be understood that where the claims or specification refer to “a” or “an” element, such reference is not to be construed as there being only one of that element. It is to be understood that where the specification states that a component feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, “can” or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included.

Reference to terms such as “left”, “right”, “top”, “bottom”, “front” and “back” are intended for use in respect to the orientation of the particular feature, structure, or element within the figures depicting embodiments of the invention. It would be evident that such directional terminology with respect to the actual use of a device has no specific meaning as the device can be employed in a multiplicity of orientations by the user or users.

Reference to terms “including”, “comprising”, “consisting” and grammatical variants thereof do not preclude the addition of one or more components, features, steps, integers or groups thereof and that the terms are not to be construed as specifying components, features, steps or integers. Likewise, the phrase “consisting essentially of”, and grammatical variants thereof, when used herein is not to be construed as excluding additional components, steps, features integers or groups thereof but rather that the additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, device or method. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element.

A “vapourizer” as used herein and throughout this disclosure, refers to a system designed to provide a source of a predetermined material or materials within the gaseous state. Accordingly, a vapourizer may include, but not be limited to, a humidifier for providing steam within an air conditioning application.

A “scaffold” or “scaffolds” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a structure that is used to hold up, interface with, or support another material or element(s). This includes, but is not limited to, such two-dimensional (2D) structures such as substrates and films, three-dimensional (3D) structures such as geometrical objects, non-geometrical objects, combinations of geometrical and non-geometrical objects, naturally occurring structural configurations, and manmade structural configurations. A scaffold may be solid, hollow, and porous or a combination thereof. A scaffold may contain recesses, pores, openings, holes, vias, and channels or a combination thereof. A scaffold may be smooth, textured, have predetermined surface profiles and/or features. A scaffold may be intended to support one or more other materials, one or more elements, one or more structures etc. A scaffold may include, but not be limited to, a spine of a device and/or a framework, for example, which also supports elements disposed within the scaffold either partially or completely. A scaffold may include, for example, a ring around an opening of an upper portion of a humidifier cartridge body such that the wall of the humidifier cartridge body extends up and around from the ring and over enclosing the upper portion of the chamber. A scaffold may include, for example, a ring around an opening of a lower portion of a humidifier cartridge body such that the wall of the humidifier cartridge body extends down and around from the ring and enclosing the lower portion of the chamber.

A “plastic” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a material consisting of any of a wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compounds that are malleable and can be molded. Plastics are typically organic polymers of high molecular mass, but may contain other substances. They are usually synthetic, most commonly derived from petrochemicals, but many are made from renewable materials. Accordingly a plastic may include, but not be limited to, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene, high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), high impact polystyrene (HIPS), polyamides (PA), nylons, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polycarbonate (PC), polyurethanes (PU), maleimide/bismaleimide, melamine formaldehyde (MF), phenolics (PF) or (phenol formaldehydes), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherimide (PEI), polyimide, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), and polysulfone. It would be evident that the plastics available for a specific application may be a subset of these as well as others not identified wherein the plastic may be specified based upon factors including, but not limited to, the required operating temperatures, chemical(s) vapourised, cost, and manufacturability.

A “polyester” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a category of polymers that contain the ester functional group in their main chain. This includes, but is not limited to polyesters which are naturally occurring chemicals as well as synthetics through step-growth polymerization, for example. Polyesters may be biodegradable or not. Polyesters may be a thermoplastic or thermoset or resins cured by hardeners. Polyesters may be aliphatic, semi-aromatic or aromatic. Polyesters may include, but not be limited to, those exploiting polyglycolide, polylactic acid (PLA), polycaprolactone (PCL), polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), polyethylene adipate (PEA), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN).

A “thermoplastic” or “thermosoftening plastic” as used herein and throughout this disclosure, refers to a category of polymers that become pliable or moldable above a specific temperature and solidify upon cooling. Thermoplastics may include, but not be limited, polycarbonate (PC), polyether sulfone (PES), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyimide (PI), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), polychlorotrifluoroethene (PCTFE or PTFCE), florinated ethylene propylene (FEP), and perfluoroalkoxy alkane (PFA). It would be evident that the thermoplastics available for a specific application may be a subset of these as well as others not identified wherein the plastic may be specified based upon factors including, but not limited to, the required operating temperatures, chemical(s) vapourised, cost, and manufacturability.

A “plastic”, “polyester” or “thermoplastic” as used herein may refer to the material in an unfilled or filled state, i.e. 100% material or X % material and (100−X) % filler. A filler may be a single material or a combination of materials. Examples of fillers may include, but not be limited to, graphite particles, glass particles, carbon particles/fibers, graphite particles/fibers, glass particles/fibers, quartz particles/fibers, boron particles/fibers, ceramic particles/fibers or whiskers such as alumina and silica, metal-coated particles/fibers, ceramic-coated particles/fibers, diamond-coated particles/fibers, carbon nanotubes, aramid particles/fibers such as Kevlar™, poly-phenylenebenzobisoxazole (“PEO”) particles/fibers such as Zylon™, metal particles/fibers, polythenes, polyacrylates, liquid crystalline polymers, and aromatic polyesters such as Vectran™.

A “metal” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a material that has good electrical and thermal conductivity. Such materials may be malleable and/or fusible and/or ductile. Metals may include, but not be limited to, aluminum, nickel, copper, cobalt, chromium, silver, gold, platinum, iron, zinc, titanium, and alloys thereof such as bronze, stainless steel, stainless steel, brass, and phosphor bronze. It would be evident that the metals and/or alloys available for a specific application may be a subset of these as well as others not identified wherein the plastic may be specified based upon factors including, but not limited to, the required operating temperatures, chemical(s) vapourised, cost, and manufacturability.

A “silicone” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a polymer that includes any inert, synthetic compound made up of repeating units of siloxane.

An “elastomeric” material or “elastomer” as used herein, and throughout this disclosure, refers to a material, generally a polymer, with viscoelasticity. Elastomers may include, but not be limited to, unsaturated rubbers such as polyisoprene, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, silicone rubber, fluorosilicone rubber, fluoroelastomers, perfluoroelastomers, and thermoplastic elastomers.

The term “flexible,” as used herein, refers to the ability of a body that is capable of being bent or flexed. Something that is flexible can be, for example, resilient or malleable. The term “resilient,” as used herein, refers to the ability of a body that has been subjected to an external force to recover, or substantially recover, its original size and/or shape, following deformation. The term “malleable,” as used herein, refers to the ability of a body that has been subjected to an external force to deform and maintain, or substantially maintain, the deformed size and/or shape.

Within the following descriptions in respect ofFIGS. 1 to 8embodiments of the invention are described with respect to steam humidification systems and FL-COBs for steam nozzles forming part of such systems. However, it would be evident that the concepts described and depicted may be applied to other vaporisation systems and vapours/fluids, e.g. vapours/fluids other than steam/water.

FIG. 1depicts a humidifier100with replaceable cylinder130according to the prior art. As depicted the humidifier100comprises a front cover150, shell160, REplaceable HUmidifier Cylinder (REHUC)130, CYlinder Plugs (CYPs)110for connection to REHUC130electrodes/sensors etc., flexible hose120with hose clamp, drain and power switch170, outlet pipe180and cover screws140. In order to replace the REHUC130the user disconnects the electrical mains power at the external disconnect before any servicing. The inside of the humidifier cabinet160contains high voltage components and wiring. The existing cylinder is drained by switching the drain and power switch170to the ON or Drain position. Alternatively, draining of the cylinder may be performed automatically due to detection of a fault or expiration of the cylinder life.

Once the REHUC130is drained the user turns the drain and power switch170to the off position and then turns off the water supply at the shut off valve. Next the screws140securing the front cover150to the shell160are undone allowing the cover150to be removed. Next the cylinder plugs110are removed from the electrical contacts on the top of the REHUC130.

Next, the hose clamp is undone allowing the flexible hose to be decoupled from the outlet pipe180. The user can now remove the REHUC130by lifting/tipping the REHUC130out from the inlet water and/or drain connection (not shown). It is during this stage that the user can damage the inlet water connection of the humidifier as well as damage other electrical interfaces to the REHUC130. Installation of the new REHUC130requires that the user inserts the bottom connection of the REHUC130into the inlet water and/or drain connection which is achieved by lifting/tilting the REHUC130and then positioning/dropping the REHUC130. In order to ensure a fluidic seal an O-ring is typically employed which may be placed onto the lower inlet of the REHUC130to fit between the REHUC130inlet and the inlet water and/or drain connection or may be part of the inlet and/or drain connection assemblies. This O-ring may be supplied discretely with the REHUC130for the user to attach or the O-ring may be part of the drain valve system such that replacement is only required in the event of damage. The user then re-attaches the flexible hose to the outlet of the REHUC130and outlet pipe180once the REHUC130has been position and tightens the hose clamps. Next the cylinder plugs110are attached to the appropriate electrical contacts on the top of the REHUC130.

At this point the user replaces the humidifier cover150and secures with the screw140before turning back on the electrical power at the external disconnect and turning the water shut off valve back on. Finally, the user turns the drain switch to on such that the REHUC130fills and the electrical heaters generate steam. In order to provide compact humidifiers, the manufacturer will typically make the shell160as small as possible relative to the REHUC130. This coupled with the outlet pipe180, electrical cabling, controller, power supply etc. lead to the available space for manipulating the REHUC130being minimal. Accordingly, damaging one or more of the inlet water and/or drain connection, bottom inlet of the REHUC130, O-ring, and O-ring retaining groove is easy. Equally, visibility when inserting the REHUC130may be limited so that distortion/movement of the O-ring may not be evident until the REHUC130is inserted freeing the user to view or when the humidifier is re-started through a leaking connection.

Within some embodiments of the invention the inlet fluid may require a valve be closed. In other embodiments of the invention an inlet valve may default to closed position without any power.

Referring toFIG. 2Athere are depicted first to third views200A to200C of a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a REHUC such as cylinder2000within a fluidic system. As depicted the cylinder2000comprises a lower portion211with inlet/drain connection214and upper portion212with steam outlet213. Also depicted is a movable coupling assembly (MCA)220comprising a body221, fluidic-mechanical coupling222, handle223and movable sleeve224. As evident in uncoupled image300A and coupled image300B the handle223raises/lowers the movable sleeve224relative to the body221and fluidic-mechanical coupling222together with the steam outlet213and upper portion212of cylinder2000. Accordingly, the movable sleeve224allows for the coupling between the outlet portion of the humidifier (coupled via the fluidic-mechanical coupling222) and the steam outlet213to be made/broken without requiring the cylinder2000be moved. Whilst a gap G is depicted within uncoupled image200C and coupled image200D inFIG. 2Bit would be evident to one skilled in the art that this gap may be zero or a predetermined value. Optionally, the movable sleeve224may have a profile at the top allowing the steam outlet213of the cylinder2000to be slid into the moveable sleeve which is then raised to put the steam outlet213within the sealed joints between it and the movable sleeve224and the movable sleeve224and the fluidic-mechanical coupling222.

Now referring toFIG. 3there are depicted first and second three-dimensional (3D) perspective images300A and300B. The movable coupling assembly (MCA)220is disposed at the top of the REHUC, such as cylinder2000, as depicted in respect ofFIGS. 2A and 2B, for engaging and disengaging with fluidic output port with the steam outlet213and at the bottom of the REHUC for engaging and disengaging with fluidic inlet/drain connection214according to embodiments of the invention. In the second configuration in second image300B the REHUC, such as cylinder2000, within the fluidic system is inserted into the fluidic system and installed with its weight pushing it down such that its inlet/drain connection214engages the fluidic inlet port of the fluidic system. The MCA220is then raised such that it engages the steam outlet213. Beneficially, the embodiments of the invention depicted inFIGS. 2A to 3provide a fluidic connection through pressure along the axis of the fluidic connection closing the joint rather requiring a radial pressure through a clamp or clamps applied to a hose or hoses fitting over the inlet and/or outlet.

WithinFIGS. 4 and 5there are depicted first to fourth images400A to400D respectively for a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Accordingly, first image400A depicts the REHUC cylinder comprising outlet410, upper body portion420, lower body portion430and inlet-drain440. Second image400B depicts the mechanism comprising outlet coupling450, handle460, inlet-drain assembly470and housing480. Accordingly, the assembled cylinder-mechanism as configured when the REHUC is in use is depicted in third image400C. Referring toFIG. 4Dmovement of the handle460results in cams485rotating and moving the inlet-drain assembly470vertically via guides495and frame elements490of housing480. Accordingly, removal of the cylinder is accomplished by pulling the handle down thereby lowering the inlet-drain assembly470(and cylinder if decoupled at the upper end) wherein the cylinder can be lifted out vertically from the inlet-drain assembly470avoiding any tipping/tilting and forced removal of the old REHUC and/or insertion of the new REHUC. Once the new REHUC has its inlet-drain440inserted into the inlet-drain assembly470the handle can be raised thereby lifting the cylinder and inlet-drain assembly470back vertically allowing connection of the steam outlet.

Now referring toFIG. 6there are depicted first to third images600A to600C relating to a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. As depicted a cylinder610with an inlet630is attached to a base620which has inlet/drain connections640and650respectively. The base620may be designed to fit a base element within the humidifier such that the base620is slid into the base element and fluidic connections are made to the inlet/drain connections640and650respectively such as via sliding inner tubes designed to engage the inlet/drain connections640and650respectively with O-ring seals for example. Such a design being essentially the inverse of the movable sleeve224inFIGS. 2A through 3respectively wherein the inner tube moves relative to a fixed external tube rather than an outer tube moves relative to a fixed internal tube. Base620may be retained in position relative to the base element by a mechanical fixture or fixtures. Optionally, the inlet/drain connections640and650respectively may project outside the footprint of the base620allowing a flexible hose to be attached and retained via a hose clamp.

Now referring toFIGS. 7A to 9there are depicted first to eighth images700A-700D,800A-800B, and900A-900B a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Referring to first and second images700A and700B respectively inFIG. 7Athere are depicted three-dimensional (3D) perspective views of the mechanism in “closed” (cylinder installed within humidifier) and “open” (where the cylinder has been pivoted forward during installation/removal). Two-dimensional (2D) side elevations of the mechanism in the “open” and “closed” positions are depicted in fifth and sixth images800A and800B respectively inFIG. 8. As depicted the cylinder710comprises an outlet720which engages with steam tube730when the cylinder710is pivoted into the humidifier. The cylinder710being mounted to an inlet-drain assembly740which is mounted to base plate750via guides755. Within the 2D side elevation views inFIG. 8the steam tube730is covered by the housing770.

Referring toFIG. 7Bthere are depicted third and fourth images700C and700D respectively 3D perspective views of the mechanism in the “closed” position wherein the cylinder710is vertical and the outlet720engaged with the steam tube730. In third image700C the majority of the housing770has been removed except the electrical connectors785which engage the electrical feed-throughs780through the upper portion of the cylinder710. Accordingly, as the cylinder is tilted from the “open” to the “closed” position and vice-versa the electrical feed-throughs780, which connect to electrodes, sensors etc. within the cylinder710, connect/disconnect respectively with the electrical connectors785so that the electrical connections to the cylinder are made concurrently with the fluidic connections. Also visible is a flange735of the steam tube730. Fourth image700D depicts the upper portion of the mechanism and cylinder710with the housing770in place wherein access ports775are visible at the rear allowing the electrical feed-throughs780to move through the wall of the housing770.

Now referring toFIG. 9the inlet-drain assembly740and base plate750are depicted without the cylinder710etc. in the “closed” and “open” positions in seventh and eighth images900A and900B respectively. Accordingly, as the user pulls/pushes the cylinder the inlet-drain assembly740moves along the guides755within the base plate750. Accordingly, to remove a REHUC the user pulls the cylinder710which removes the end of the outlet720from within the end of the steam tube730and allows the cylinder to be lifted away from the humidifier without the humidifier interfering. Hence, to insert a new REHUC the user couples the fluid coupling at the bottom of the cylinder710to the inlet-drain assembly740and then pushes the cylinder710wherein the guides raise and align it with respect to the steam tube730to make the output fluid connection.

Referring toFIG. 10there are depicted first to third images1000A to1000C respectively for a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. As depicted the cylinder1010has first and second fluid couplings1020and1030respectively together with a handle1040. Accordingly, the cylinder1010may be slid into the humidifier making the fluidic connections or alternatively flexible hoses may be coupled to the first and second fluid couplings1020and1030respectively and the cylinder1010positioned within the humidifier.

FIGS. 11A to 12Bdepict a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Referring toFIG. 11Athere are depicted first to third images1100A to1100C respectively for a REHUC mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Accordingly, first image1100A depicts the REHUC cylinder comprising outlet1110, upper body portion1120, lower body portion1130and inlet-drain assembly1140together with steam tube comprising coupling1150A and tube1150B (with a plurality of steam outlets disposed along its length). The steam tube being coupled to the RHUC cylinder via tubing1160which is mounted to the outlet1110by first attachment1170A and to the coupling1150A via second attachment1170B. Second and third images1100B and1100C depict the REHUC mechanism in two different 3D perspective views.

WithinFIG. 11Bthere are depicted first to third images1100D to1100F respectively. First image1100D being a close-up 3D perspective view of the REHUC cylinder outlet and steam tube coupling depicting the upper body portion1120of the REHUC cylinder with outlet1110together with the injector comprising coupling1150A, tube1150B, and abutment plate1150C. These being joined by tubing1160which is mounted to the outlet1110by first attachment1170A and to the coupling1150A via second attachment1170B. Second image1100E depicts the injector in isolation comprising coupling1150A, tube1150B, and abutment plate1150C whilst third image1100C depicts the REHUC cylinder comprising outlet1110, upper body portion1120, lower boy portion1130and inlet1180. The inlet1180coupling to the inlet-drain assembly1140when the REHUC cylinder is mounted to it and positioned.

Referring toFIG. 12Afirst and second image1200A and1200B depict 3D perspective views of the lower portion of the assembly. First image1200A comprising inlet-drain assembly and REHUC cylinder coupled together whilst second image1200B depicts only the inlet-drain assembly. In first image1200A the REHUC cylinder is depicted only by lower body portion1120whereas the inlet-drain assembly comprises a tray1140E, a first mounting1140A, a fluidic coupler1140C and valve controller1140D. In second image1200B these are also depicted together with second mounting1140B and inlet receptacle1140F. The inlet receptacle1140F being dimensioned to fit around the outer diameter of the inlet of the REHUC cylinder when it is inserted. Fluid (e.g. water) flow into the REHUC cylinder from the source, e.g. water reservoir, during vapour fluid generation (operation of REHUC) or cleaning cycles and fluid flow from the REHUC cylinder during a drain sequence of a cleaning cycle or REHUC removal being via the fluidic coupler1140C which is controlled via valve controller1140D. The fluidic coupler1140C receiving fluid from external fluid system via controller inlet port1140G wherein it is coupled to the inlet receptacle1140F and therein the inlet1180of the REHUC cylinder when mounted under the control of the valve controller1140D. The fluidic coupler1140C also draining fluid from the REHUC cylinder via the inlet receptacle1140F under the control of the valve controller1140D wherein the fluid being drained is directed to drain11401of the tray1140E via controller outlet port1140H.

Referring toFIG. 12Bthere is depicted a 3D perspective view of the inlet-drain assembly depicting the controller inlet port1140G, drain11401, inlet receptacle1140F, valve controller1140D, fluidic coupler1140C as described and depicted inFIG. 12A. Also depicted are first mounting1140A, which comprises first coupler mount1210and first support1215, and second mounting1140B, which comprises second coupler mount1220and second support1225. The first and second supports1215and1225being attached to the tray and allowing insertion/retention of the assembly (comprising controller inlet port1140G, inlet receptacle1140F, valve controller1140D, fluidic coupler1140C etc. to the tray) as well as rotation of the assembly relative to the tray. Accordingly, the assembly is vertically and laterally positioned by the heights of the first and second supports1215and1225and laterally restrained by flexible support1240which is pushed aside as the assembly is lowered and slid into first mounting1140A. Rotation of the assembly with respect to the tray is prevented in one direction by arm1230on the fluidic coupler1140C engaging stop1235on the base of the tray. Accordingly, the assembly can rotate in one direction.

At initial installation of the REHUC cylinder the assembly is rotated away from substantially parallel to the tray, the REHUC cylinder mounted such that the inlet1180is within the inlet receptacle1140F, and then the assembly with REHUC cylinder rotated till the arm1230engages the stop1235. Once in this position the tubing1160is attached to the outlet1110of the REHUC cylinder by first attachment1170A and to the coupling1150A of the injector by second attachment1170B. Subsequently, when the REHUC cylinder is to be removed and a replacement fitted, then the first and second attachments1170A and1170B are undone, the tubing1160removed and then the REHUC cylinder can be pivoted upon the assembly away such that the REHUC cylinder can be removed without potential impact to the injector.

Now referring toFIGS. 13A and 13Bthere is depicted a mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Referring toFIG. 13Athere are depicted first to third images1300A to1300C respectively for a REHUC mechanism according to an embodiment of the invention for engaging and disengaging a cylinder within a fluidic system. Accordingly, first image1300A depicts the REHUC cylinder comprising outlet1310, upper body portion1320, lower body portion1330and inlet-drain assembly1340together with steam tube comprising coupling1350A and tube1350B (with a plurality of steam outlets disposed along its length). The steam tube being coupled to the RHUC cylinder outlet1310directly rather than via a tubing1160inFIGS. 11A and 11Brespectively. Second and third images1300B and1300C depict the REHUC mechanism in two different 3D perspective views.

WithinFIG. 13Bthere are depicted first to third images1300D to1300F respectively. First image1300D being a close-up 3D perspective view of the REHUC cylinder outlet and steam tube coupling depicting the upper body portion1320of the REHUC cylinder with outlet1310together with the injector comprising coupling1350A and tube1350B. Second image1300E depicts the injector in isolation comprising coupling1350A and tube1350B whilst third image1300F depicts the REHUC cylinder comprising outlet1310, upper body portion1320, lower body portion1330and inlet1380. The inlet1380coupling to the inlet-drain assembly1340when the REHUC cylinder is mounted to it and positioned.

Referring toFIG. 14Afirst and second image1400A and1400B depict 3D perspective views of the lower portion of the assembly. First image1400A comprising inlet-drain assembly and REHUC cylinder coupled together whilst second image1400B depicts only the inlet-drain assembly. In first image1400A the REHUC cylinder is depicted only by lower body portion1320whereas the inlet-drain assembly comprises a tray1340E, a first mounting1340A, a fluidic coupler1340C and valve controller1340D. In second image1400B these are also depicted together with second mounting1340B and inlet receptacle1340F. The inlet receptacle1340F being dimensioned to fit around the outer diameter of the inlet of the REHUC cylinder when it is inserted. Fluid (e.g. water) flow into the REHUC cylinder from the source, e.g. water reservoir, during vapour fluid generation (operation of REHUC) or cleaning cycles and fluid flow from the REHUC cylinder during a drain sequence of a cleaning cycle or REHUC removal being via the fluidic coupler1340C which is controlled via valve controller1340D. The fluidic coupler1340C receiving fluid from external fluid system via controller inlet port1340G wherein it is coupled to the inlet receptacle1340F and therein the inlet1380of the REHUC cylinder when mounted under the control of the valve controller1340D. The fluidic coupler1340C also draining fluid from the REHUC cylinder via the inlet receptacle1340F under the control of the valve controller1340D wherein the fluid being drained is directed to drain13401of the tray1340E via controller outlet port1340H.

Referring toFIG. 14Bthere is depicted a 3D perspective view of the inlet-drain assembly depicting the controller inlet port1340G, drain13401, inlet receptacle1340F, valve controller1340D, fluidic coupler1340C as described and depicted inFIG. 14A. Also depicted are first mounting1340A, which comprises first coupler mount1410and first support1415, and second mounting1340B, which comprises second coupler mount1420and second support1425. The first and second supports1415and1425being attached to the tray and allowing insertion/retention of the assembly (comprising controller inlet port1340G, inlet receptacle1340F, valve controller1340D, fluidic coupler1340C etc. to the tray) as well as rotation of the assembly relative to the tray. Accordingly, the assembly is vertically and laterally positioned by the heights of the first and second supports1415and1425and laterally restrained by flexible support1440which is pushed aside as the assembly is lowered and slid into first mounting1340A. Rotation of the assembly with respect to the tray is prevented in one direction by arm1430on the fluidic coupler1340C engaging stop1435on the base of the tray. Accordingly, the assembly can rotate in one direction.

At initial installation of the REHUC cylinder the assembly is rotated away from substantially parallel to the tray, the REHUC cylinder mounted such that the inlet1380is within the inlet receptacle1340F, and then the assembly with REHUC cylinder rotated till the arm1430engages the stop1435. As the REHUC cylinder and assembly are rotated the outlet1310of the REHUC cylinder engages the coupling1350A of the injector. Subsequently, when the REHUC cylinder is to be removed and a replacement fitted, then the REHUC cylinder can be pivoted upon the assembly away such that the REHUC cylinder can be removed without potential impact to the injector. Accordingly, the outlet1310automatically engages and disengages the coupling1350A of the injector as the REHUC cylinder and assembly are pivoted in contrast to the configuration depicted inFIGS. 11A to 12Bwherein the connection from the outlet1110of the REHUC cylinder to the coupling1150A of the injector must be physically made/unmade when the REHUC cylinder is in the correct position.

It would be evident that in each assembly configuration depicted withinFIGS. 2A to 14Bwith each instance of removal-installation electrical connections are made/unmade which are not explicitly described with respect to embodiments of the invention. These electrical connections can include, but are not limited to, heating element(s), temperature sensor(s), fluid level sensor(s), etc. Within embodiments of the invention these electrical connections may be made discretely one by one, all at once through a connector, in subsets through multiple connectors. Within embodiments of the invention these may be connected/disconnected as a separate step to that of the fluidic connections in the removal/installation process or they may be made concurrently through appropriate electrical connectors supporting insertion/removal of a plug or socket from a socket or plug which may have retention elements that can be engaged/disengaged to allow removal/insertion and maintenance of electrical connections during use.

Whilst the cylinders depicted in respect ofFIGS. 2A to 14Bare circular in external geometry at the base it would be evident that other external geometries may be employed including, but not limited to, square, rectangular, hexagonal, and octagonal or a combination thereof. For example, a predominantly circular external geometry may be merged with a square geometry such that edges of the square engage with features within the humidifier aligning the cylinder with the humidifier. Alternatively, such features aligning the cylinder with the humidifier may be disposed further up the body of the cylinder.

Whilst the cylinders described and depicted in respect ofFIGS. 2A to 14Bexploit a single inlet-drain connection and a single outlet it would be evident to one of skill in the art that multiple inlets and/or outlets may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, a single fluid inlet may be employed, e.g. for water, with a steam outlet port and a second outlet port for draining.

Whilst the cylinders and embodiments of the invention described and depicted in respect ofFIGS. 2A to 14Brelate to humidification systems it would be evident to one skilled in the art that the concepts may be applied to a variety of other fluid processing and/or fluid management systems including replaceable filters for water purification systems, air conditioning systems, chemical treatments, dehumidification systems, electrostatic purification systems, ultraviolet purification systems, refrigeration systems, chemical systems, heating systems, air conditioning systems, filtering systems, electrical humidifiers, ultrasonic humidifiers, etc.

It would be evident to one skilled in the art that the body of the cylinders, inlet port(s), outlet port(s), connectors, fluidic assemblies, system casing, connectors, etc. may be formed from one or more plastics, metals, alloys, glasses etc. according to the functionality of the cylinder, the fluid(s) coupled to the cylinder, the fluid(s) coupled from the cylinder, operating temperature etc.