CA2936719A1 - Water pitcher, adapter, and filter system - Google Patents
Water pitcher, adapter, and filter system Download PDFInfo
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- CA2936719A1 CA2936719A1 CA2936719A CA2936719A CA2936719A1 CA 2936719 A1 CA2936719 A1 CA 2936719A1 CA 2936719 A CA2936719 A CA 2936719A CA 2936719 A CA2936719 A CA 2936719A CA 2936719 A1 CA2936719 A1 CA 2936719A1
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Abstract
A water pitcher and filter assembly that includes: a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section; a pitcher cap configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and having a top surface and a bottom surface and the top surface of the pitcher cap includes a gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and the pitcher cap further comprises a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the notch and is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab; and a gravity filter assembly having a top portion where the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab.
Description
Atty. Docket No. SUB-07414-US-NP
WATER PITCHER, ADAPTER, AND FILTER SYSTEM
Summary of the Present Invention [0001]
An aspect of the present disclosure includes a water pitcher and filter assembly that includes: a water pitcher; a pitcher cap; and a gravity filter assembly. The water pitcher has a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section where the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir. The pitcher cap is configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and has a top surface, a bottom surface, an interior aperture, and a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface. The inside of the exterior wall engages the perimeter of the water pitcher. The top surface of the pitcher cap includes at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The pitcher cap further includes a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch.
The filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab. The gravity filter assembly typically has a bottom portion, a fluid filter, and a top portion. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
WATER PITCHER, ADAPTER, AND FILTER SYSTEM
Summary of the Present Invention [0001]
An aspect of the present disclosure includes a water pitcher and filter assembly that includes: a water pitcher; a pitcher cap; and a gravity filter assembly. The water pitcher has a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section where the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir. The pitcher cap is configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and has a top surface, a bottom surface, an interior aperture, and a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface. The inside of the exterior wall engages the perimeter of the water pitcher. The top surface of the pitcher cap includes at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The pitcher cap further includes a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch.
The filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab. The gravity filter assembly typically has a bottom portion, a fluid filter, and a top portion. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
[0002]
Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a water pitcher and filter assembly that includes: a water pitcher; a gravity filter assembly; and a top cover.
The water pitcher has a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section. The top section has a top rim section. The at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section. The bottom section, the at least one sidewall section, and the top section together define the water reservoir. The top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The gravity filter assembly has a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture; an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
The bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter. The top cover at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter.
The top cover has at least one top cover tab extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed. The gravity filter assembly and the top cover are typically removably engaged and disengaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools.
Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a water pitcher and filter assembly that includes: a water pitcher; a gravity filter assembly; and a top cover.
The water pitcher has a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section. The top section has a top rim section. The at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section. The bottom section, the at least one sidewall section, and the top section together define the water reservoir. The top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The gravity filter assembly has a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture; an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
The bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter. The top cover at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter.
The top cover has at least one top cover tab extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed. The gravity filter assembly and the top cover are typically removably engaged and disengaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools.
[0003] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure is generally directed toward a kit that includes: a water pitcher and a gravity filter assembly. The water pitcher has a water reservoir;
a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section;
and a top section that has a top rim section. The at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section. The bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir. The top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The gravity filter assembly has a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture; an interior, untreated water reservoir;
and at least one water treatment medium. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation. The bottom portion and the top portion are typically removably engaged and disengaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter.
Brief Description of the Drawings
a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section;
and a top section that has a top rim section. The at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section. The bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir. The top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch. The gravity filter assembly has a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture; an interior, untreated water reservoir;
and at least one water treatment medium. The top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation. The bottom portion and the top portion are typically removably engaged and disengaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0004] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a water pitcher and filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0005] FIG. 2 is a partial exploded perspective view of a pitcher cap and water pitcher according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0006] FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of a pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 3B is a bottom perspective view of a pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 4A is a top view of a pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 4B is a bottom view of a pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0010] FIG. 5 is a partially exploded perspective view of a pitcher cap, gravity filter assembly, and top cover showing how the gravity filter assembly and top cover engage the pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[wil] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view showing the gravity filter assembly engaged with the pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a water treatment medium containing section of the gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the bottom portion of a gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description of Embodiments [0015] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower,"
"right," "left," "rear,"
"front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
[0016] Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally designates [0017] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
[0018] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature.
Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
[0019] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the invention as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only.
Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
[0020] As shown in the figures, a water pitcher and filter assembly 10 according to an aspect of the present disclosure may include a water pitcher 12; a pitcher cap/adapter 14; a gravity-driven filter assembly 16; and a top cover 18. These components are all configured to and capable of being removably engaged by hand and without the use of tools.
Additionally, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 may also be disassembled and reassembled by hand and without the use of tools.
[0021] Regarding the water pitcher, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, the water pitcher typically has a bottom section 20, an intermediate section 22, and a top section 24. The bottom section typically includes a flat planar or bottom 26, but could conceivably have feet or any devices to place the water pitcher on a generally flat and level surface. The bottom section also further may include one or more angled bottom section side wall 28 and at least a corresponding number of bottom section side walls transition locations 30, which transition between the bottom section and the intermediate section.
[0022] The intermediate section 22 of the water pitcher typically includes at least one upwardly extending side wall section 32 that extends upward from the bottom section.
The bottom section and side wall section define a majority of the interior volume of the water pitcher. This interior volume holds a majority of the treated water. Typically, the water treatment medium contained within the gravity filter assembly does not extend into the treated water contained within the water pitcher but instead is positioned above the treated water in the pitcher. The at least one upwardly extending side wall typically engages a top section wall 34 that may have the same, narrower, or broader diameter than the at least one upwardly extending side wall 32.
The top section typically includes a spout 36 and extends upward from the side wall(s) 32. The spout is typically integrally formed with the top section wall 34. The top section 24 extends upward to a top rim section 38. As best shown in FIG. 2, the top rim section typically includes a top rim ledge 40 that extends around substantially all of the perimeter of the top rim section except for generally around the spout. The top rim section also typically includes a top rim 42 around the upper perimeter of the water pitcher. The top rim may extend laterally outward from the perimeter a distance. If the top rim extends laterally outward, the top rim and the top rim ledge define a top rim channel 44 formed therebetween. The top rim section, as will be discussed in greater detail herein, engages the pitcher cap in a snap fit arrangement. While a snap fit engagement is preferred, the pitcher cap could conceivably be permanently affixed to the water pitcher or a pitcher cap may be unnecessary if the features of the pitcher cap are incorporated into the water pitcher itself. The pitcher cap is utilized, in part, to provide ease of manufacturability. The pitcher cap allows for a simpler water pitcher to be formed and thereafter adapted for use with the gravity filter assemblies and top covers of the present disclosure. The water pitcher 12 of the present disclosure further typically includes a handle section 46, which typically includes an interior portion 48 and an exterior portion 50. The handle section 46 is typically engaged with a portion of the water pitcher below the midpoint line of the at least one upwardly extending side wall 32 and engages the top rim section 38 using a top bridge 52. The top bridge 52 typically includes at least one upwardly extending pitcher cap engaging clip 54. The clip is typically an integrally formed, L
shaped member where the upwardly extending back wall is planar, the top wall is planar, and the laterally extending clip portion is curvilinear for ease of snap fit engagement with the pitcher cap. The curvilinear portion of the clip typically substantially aligns with the top rim.
[0023]
While the water pitcher may be made of any material, the water pitcher is most often constructed of plastic and the water pitcher and handle may be entirely transparent or clear, translucent, or opaque. In a preferred embodiment, the water pitcher is transparent. The interior portion and the top bridge of the handle section may also be clear while the exterior portion may be opaque and match the pitcher cap.
[0024] The pitcher cap/adapter 14 is shown in FIGS. 3A-4B. The pitcher cap typically includes a handle engagement and cover portion 56, a pitcher cap rim 58, which typically aligns and has the same shape as the top rim of the water pitcher, and a hinged spout cover 60. The pitcher cap/adapter typically has a top surface 62 and a bottom surface 64 and define an interior aperture 66. The interior aperture, while shown in the figures as circular, could conceivably be any shape such as square or rectangular to typically match the shape of the water pitcher. The pitcher cap 14 typically further includes a downwardly extending exterior wall 68 that extends down from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface. The inside of exterior wall 68 engages the top rim 42 of the water pitcher when the pitcher cap 14 is engaged with the water pitcher 12. More specifically, the two or more dual ramp members 71 spaced on and extending away from the inside of exterior wall 28 engages the inside of exterior wall 28.
The cap does not typically fully seat on the top of the pitcher. Typically the dual ramp members engages top rim channel 44 such that a space is maintained between the pitcher cap and the pitcher. The space is not typically visible to the user of the pitcher. The dual ramp members typically have two opposing ramped surfaces 73 extending downward from a common top flat surface 75.
[0025] As best shown in FIGS. 3A and 4A, the top surface of the pitcher cap may include at least one, but preferably a plurality, of gravity filter and top cover engagement notches 70. Each gravity filter and top cover engagement notch is typically associated with a laterally extending filter tab receiving groove 72 that is defined in the pitcher cap 14. The groove and the notch are defined along the bottom surface by a base 74 which provides a bottom surface for both the notch and the groove associated with the notch. The notch 70 typically has a engagement member receiving recess 76 that operates to provide a mating location for laterally extending engagement members on the top cover's downwardly extending top cover tabs 78.
The pitcher cap further typically includes a interior aperture defining wall 80 about the interior perimeter of the pitcher cap. The interior aperture defining wall 80 also defines the thickness of the top surface 62.
[0026] The pitcher cap, as discussed above typically includes a spout cover 60, which is generally shaped to cover the spout and has a corresponding shape to the spout 36. The spout cover 60 is typically hingedly engaged with the pitcher cap 14 using a hinge pin 82 spaced within a hinge pin receiving channel defined by a hinge cover receiving extension 84 that extends from a downwardly extending spout wall 86, which substantially corresponds to and aligns with the interior aperture defining wall 80. The spout cover 60 typically moves between a substantially planar position to an upwardly extended angled position where the angled position is typically from at least about five degrees to at least about eighty degrees, but conceivably could be any angle therebetween or beyond eighty degrees. The angle could be obtuse or at a right angle rather than an acute angle from its normal planar stationary position.
The bottom of the handle engagement and cover portion 56 is typically hollowed and defined by a perimeter wall 88. Spaced within the perimeter wall is typically at least one downwardly extending clip receiving wall 90. The clip receiving wall typically has a pitcher cap engaging clip receiving recess on one side of the clip receiving wall (the opposite side of the wall shown in FIG. 3B). This configuration facilitates a tight snap fit when the pitcher cap is engaged with the water pitcher.
[0027] As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 7-9, the water pitcher and filter assembly of the present disclosure further includes a gravity-driven water filter assembly 16. The gravity-driven water filter assembly is typically a drop shaped filter assembly with at least one pitcher cap engagement tab 92 that typically extends laterally away from the perimeter of the top portion 94 of the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16. Typically, a plurality of tabs 92 are utilized, most typically three evenly spaced tabs. The number of tabs 92 should typically match the number of gravity filter and top cover engagement notches and associated filter tab receiving grooves in the pitcher cap. The top portion is typically dome shaped and has an untreated water receiving aperture 96. The interior of the dome defines an untreated water receiving reservoir within the interior volume of the top portion. The gravity filter engagement tabs are positioned along a bottom circumferential portion of the top portion 94. The tabs extend away from the bottom circumferential portion at an angle to the bottom circumferential portion of the outer dome. Typically, the tabs 92 extend laterally away at about a ninety degree angle.
[0028] As shown in FIGS. 7-9, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 according to the present disclosure is a generally drop-shaped gravity filter assembly. The gravity filter assembly includes a bottom portion 98, which typically has an over-molded material 100 that is typically a plastic or elastomeric material that facilitates gripping of the filter by the user and/or the vessel. The bottom portion 98 is typically not engaged with the water pitcher during a filtering
[wil] FIG. 6 is a bottom perspective view showing the gravity filter assembly engaged with the pitcher cap according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a water treatment medium containing section of the gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the bottom portion of a gravity filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description of Embodiments [0015] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower,"
"right," "left," "rear,"
"front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.
[0016] Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 generally designates [0017] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described invention and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein.
[0018] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all of its forms, couple, coupling, coupled, etc.) generally means the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature.
Such joining may be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two components. Such joining may be permanent in nature or may be removable or releasable in nature unless otherwise stated.
[0019] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the invention as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only.
Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.
[0020] As shown in the figures, a water pitcher and filter assembly 10 according to an aspect of the present disclosure may include a water pitcher 12; a pitcher cap/adapter 14; a gravity-driven filter assembly 16; and a top cover 18. These components are all configured to and capable of being removably engaged by hand and without the use of tools.
Additionally, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 may also be disassembled and reassembled by hand and without the use of tools.
[0021] Regarding the water pitcher, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, the water pitcher typically has a bottom section 20, an intermediate section 22, and a top section 24. The bottom section typically includes a flat planar or bottom 26, but could conceivably have feet or any devices to place the water pitcher on a generally flat and level surface. The bottom section also further may include one or more angled bottom section side wall 28 and at least a corresponding number of bottom section side walls transition locations 30, which transition between the bottom section and the intermediate section.
[0022] The intermediate section 22 of the water pitcher typically includes at least one upwardly extending side wall section 32 that extends upward from the bottom section.
The bottom section and side wall section define a majority of the interior volume of the water pitcher. This interior volume holds a majority of the treated water. Typically, the water treatment medium contained within the gravity filter assembly does not extend into the treated water contained within the water pitcher but instead is positioned above the treated water in the pitcher. The at least one upwardly extending side wall typically engages a top section wall 34 that may have the same, narrower, or broader diameter than the at least one upwardly extending side wall 32.
The top section typically includes a spout 36 and extends upward from the side wall(s) 32. The spout is typically integrally formed with the top section wall 34. The top section 24 extends upward to a top rim section 38. As best shown in FIG. 2, the top rim section typically includes a top rim ledge 40 that extends around substantially all of the perimeter of the top rim section except for generally around the spout. The top rim section also typically includes a top rim 42 around the upper perimeter of the water pitcher. The top rim may extend laterally outward from the perimeter a distance. If the top rim extends laterally outward, the top rim and the top rim ledge define a top rim channel 44 formed therebetween. The top rim section, as will be discussed in greater detail herein, engages the pitcher cap in a snap fit arrangement. While a snap fit engagement is preferred, the pitcher cap could conceivably be permanently affixed to the water pitcher or a pitcher cap may be unnecessary if the features of the pitcher cap are incorporated into the water pitcher itself. The pitcher cap is utilized, in part, to provide ease of manufacturability. The pitcher cap allows for a simpler water pitcher to be formed and thereafter adapted for use with the gravity filter assemblies and top covers of the present disclosure. The water pitcher 12 of the present disclosure further typically includes a handle section 46, which typically includes an interior portion 48 and an exterior portion 50. The handle section 46 is typically engaged with a portion of the water pitcher below the midpoint line of the at least one upwardly extending side wall 32 and engages the top rim section 38 using a top bridge 52. The top bridge 52 typically includes at least one upwardly extending pitcher cap engaging clip 54. The clip is typically an integrally formed, L
shaped member where the upwardly extending back wall is planar, the top wall is planar, and the laterally extending clip portion is curvilinear for ease of snap fit engagement with the pitcher cap. The curvilinear portion of the clip typically substantially aligns with the top rim.
[0023]
While the water pitcher may be made of any material, the water pitcher is most often constructed of plastic and the water pitcher and handle may be entirely transparent or clear, translucent, or opaque. In a preferred embodiment, the water pitcher is transparent. The interior portion and the top bridge of the handle section may also be clear while the exterior portion may be opaque and match the pitcher cap.
[0024] The pitcher cap/adapter 14 is shown in FIGS. 3A-4B. The pitcher cap typically includes a handle engagement and cover portion 56, a pitcher cap rim 58, which typically aligns and has the same shape as the top rim of the water pitcher, and a hinged spout cover 60. The pitcher cap/adapter typically has a top surface 62 and a bottom surface 64 and define an interior aperture 66. The interior aperture, while shown in the figures as circular, could conceivably be any shape such as square or rectangular to typically match the shape of the water pitcher. The pitcher cap 14 typically further includes a downwardly extending exterior wall 68 that extends down from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface. The inside of exterior wall 68 engages the top rim 42 of the water pitcher when the pitcher cap 14 is engaged with the water pitcher 12. More specifically, the two or more dual ramp members 71 spaced on and extending away from the inside of exterior wall 28 engages the inside of exterior wall 28.
The cap does not typically fully seat on the top of the pitcher. Typically the dual ramp members engages top rim channel 44 such that a space is maintained between the pitcher cap and the pitcher. The space is not typically visible to the user of the pitcher. The dual ramp members typically have two opposing ramped surfaces 73 extending downward from a common top flat surface 75.
[0025] As best shown in FIGS. 3A and 4A, the top surface of the pitcher cap may include at least one, but preferably a plurality, of gravity filter and top cover engagement notches 70. Each gravity filter and top cover engagement notch is typically associated with a laterally extending filter tab receiving groove 72 that is defined in the pitcher cap 14. The groove and the notch are defined along the bottom surface by a base 74 which provides a bottom surface for both the notch and the groove associated with the notch. The notch 70 typically has a engagement member receiving recess 76 that operates to provide a mating location for laterally extending engagement members on the top cover's downwardly extending top cover tabs 78.
The pitcher cap further typically includes a interior aperture defining wall 80 about the interior perimeter of the pitcher cap. The interior aperture defining wall 80 also defines the thickness of the top surface 62.
[0026] The pitcher cap, as discussed above typically includes a spout cover 60, which is generally shaped to cover the spout and has a corresponding shape to the spout 36. The spout cover 60 is typically hingedly engaged with the pitcher cap 14 using a hinge pin 82 spaced within a hinge pin receiving channel defined by a hinge cover receiving extension 84 that extends from a downwardly extending spout wall 86, which substantially corresponds to and aligns with the interior aperture defining wall 80. The spout cover 60 typically moves between a substantially planar position to an upwardly extended angled position where the angled position is typically from at least about five degrees to at least about eighty degrees, but conceivably could be any angle therebetween or beyond eighty degrees. The angle could be obtuse or at a right angle rather than an acute angle from its normal planar stationary position.
The bottom of the handle engagement and cover portion 56 is typically hollowed and defined by a perimeter wall 88. Spaced within the perimeter wall is typically at least one downwardly extending clip receiving wall 90. The clip receiving wall typically has a pitcher cap engaging clip receiving recess on one side of the clip receiving wall (the opposite side of the wall shown in FIG. 3B). This configuration facilitates a tight snap fit when the pitcher cap is engaged with the water pitcher.
[0027] As best shown in FIGS. 1 and 7-9, the water pitcher and filter assembly of the present disclosure further includes a gravity-driven water filter assembly 16. The gravity-driven water filter assembly is typically a drop shaped filter assembly with at least one pitcher cap engagement tab 92 that typically extends laterally away from the perimeter of the top portion 94 of the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16. Typically, a plurality of tabs 92 are utilized, most typically three evenly spaced tabs. The number of tabs 92 should typically match the number of gravity filter and top cover engagement notches and associated filter tab receiving grooves in the pitcher cap. The top portion is typically dome shaped and has an untreated water receiving aperture 96. The interior of the dome defines an untreated water receiving reservoir within the interior volume of the top portion. The gravity filter engagement tabs are positioned along a bottom circumferential portion of the top portion 94. The tabs extend away from the bottom circumferential portion at an angle to the bottom circumferential portion of the outer dome. Typically, the tabs 92 extend laterally away at about a ninety degree angle.
[0028] As shown in FIGS. 7-9, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 according to the present disclosure is a generally drop-shaped gravity filter assembly. The gravity filter assembly includes a bottom portion 98, which typically has an over-molded material 100 that is typically a plastic or elastomeric material that facilitates gripping of the filter by the user and/or the vessel. The bottom portion 98 is typically not engaged with the water pitcher during a filtering
11 operation into the pitcher. The over-molded material 100 also typically has a cut out portion 102 that matches a cut out portion 104 of a base layer 106 of the bottom portion 98.
[0029] The fluid filter (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) includes a fluid filter 108. The fluid filter 108 has a side wall section 110 that has an outwardly projecting lip 112, which is typically the position approximate the top of the fluid filter when it is completely assembled. While not shown, the side wall section 110 may include indicators that are visible through the cut out portion 102, 104 that indicate to the user when the filter has run past its useful life.
For example, when the user inserts the filter in April, if the filter has a six month useful life, the user would place the filter within the bottom funnel portion such that it mates with the bottom portion and displays "OCT" through the cut out portion to indicate to the user that the filter medium needs to be replaced when the month of October is reached. The bottom surface 114 of the fluid filter typically includes a plurality of treated water apertures that allow water flow to flow out of the fluid filter and into the bottom portion 98. The bottom surface typically includes a filter base which is spoked about a hub and has a sufficient number and/or sized apertures to allow water to flow at a rate faster than the water flow through the filter material 116.
The filter material 116 typically includes an activated carbon filtration media that reduces chlorine, taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and typically removes some Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlar, Lindane lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic. When flow rate and amount of activated carbon filtration media are adjusted appropriately the activated carbon filtration media may remove Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlar and Lindane per NSF 53 for a minimum 60 gallons and removes lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic (pH
6.5 per NSF
53 2004 standard) for up to 60 gallons, sfd. Media from SELECTO described in United States
[0029] The fluid filter (see FIG. 7 and FIG. 8) includes a fluid filter 108. The fluid filter 108 has a side wall section 110 that has an outwardly projecting lip 112, which is typically the position approximate the top of the fluid filter when it is completely assembled. While not shown, the side wall section 110 may include indicators that are visible through the cut out portion 102, 104 that indicate to the user when the filter has run past its useful life.
For example, when the user inserts the filter in April, if the filter has a six month useful life, the user would place the filter within the bottom funnel portion such that it mates with the bottom portion and displays "OCT" through the cut out portion to indicate to the user that the filter medium needs to be replaced when the month of October is reached. The bottom surface 114 of the fluid filter typically includes a plurality of treated water apertures that allow water flow to flow out of the fluid filter and into the bottom portion 98. The bottom surface typically includes a filter base which is spoked about a hub and has a sufficient number and/or sized apertures to allow water to flow at a rate faster than the water flow through the filter material 116.
The filter material 116 typically includes an activated carbon filtration media that reduces chlorine, taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and typically removes some Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlar, Lindane lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic. When flow rate and amount of activated carbon filtration media are adjusted appropriately the activated carbon filtration media may remove Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlar and Lindane per NSF 53 for a minimum 60 gallons and removes lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic (pH
6.5 per NSF
53 2004 standard) for up to 60 gallons, sfd. Media from SELECTO described in United States
12 Patent No. 6,241,895 and 6,764,601, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, may be used. The filter medium does not typically require any presoaking and does not typically contain any carbon finds, in particular carbon finds that might find their way to the treated water, which often occurs when current carbon-based gravity filters are used.
[0030] The filter material 116 is typically a filter material, but could conceivably add components to the fluid (typically water) flowing through, or otherwise into contact with, the at least one filter material 116. The filter material positioned within the fluid filter may include: (1) material configured to treat water, especially water for human consumption, chosen from a treatment group consisting of filtering particulate matter from water; (2) material that adds a descaling agent to the water, vitamins to the water, minerals to the water, and/or one or more pharmaceutically active agent(s); (3) material that removes specific soluble organic or in-organic elemental compounds and thus improves the taste of the water, removes odor from the water, and alters the color of the water; (4) reduces concentrations of heavy metals, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, specific pharmaceutically active agents; (5) removes cysts and micro-organisms; (6) adding a halogen such as bromine, iodine, chlorine compounds as a disinfectant agent to the water; (7) conditions the water such as softening through use of ion exchange resins or ALUSILTM (an aluminosilcate) to change the chemical structure of calcium chloride in solution to reduce scaling deposition; or (8) combinations of any or all of the above materials.
[0031] The descaling agents that may be added to the fluid by the treatment medium may be chosen from the group consisting of organic acid, inorganic acid, sulfonic acid, carboxylic acid,
[0030] The filter material 116 is typically a filter material, but could conceivably add components to the fluid (typically water) flowing through, or otherwise into contact with, the at least one filter material 116. The filter material positioned within the fluid filter may include: (1) material configured to treat water, especially water for human consumption, chosen from a treatment group consisting of filtering particulate matter from water; (2) material that adds a descaling agent to the water, vitamins to the water, minerals to the water, and/or one or more pharmaceutically active agent(s); (3) material that removes specific soluble organic or in-organic elemental compounds and thus improves the taste of the water, removes odor from the water, and alters the color of the water; (4) reduces concentrations of heavy metals, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, specific pharmaceutically active agents; (5) removes cysts and micro-organisms; (6) adding a halogen such as bromine, iodine, chlorine compounds as a disinfectant agent to the water; (7) conditions the water such as softening through use of ion exchange resins or ALUSILTM (an aluminosilcate) to change the chemical structure of calcium chloride in solution to reduce scaling deposition; or (8) combinations of any or all of the above materials.
[0031] The descaling agents that may be added to the fluid by the treatment medium may be chosen from the group consisting of organic acid, inorganic acid, sulfonic acid, carboxylic acid,
13 lactic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, uric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfamic acid, and mixtures thereof. The water treatment medium contained in the filter may also be chosen from the group consisting of: carbon (e.g., activated carbon particles, such as mesoporous activated carbon, carbon powder, particles sintered with a plastic binder, carbon particles coated with a silver containing material, or a block of porous carbon); ion exchange material (e.g., resin beads, flat filtration membranes, fibrous filtration structures, etc.); zeolite particles or coatings (e.g., silver loaded); polyethylene; charged-modified, melt-down, or microfiber glass webs; alumina; aluminosilicate material; and diatomaceous earth. The water treatment medium may also be impregnated or otherwise disposed on a porous support substrate, such as a fabric material, a paper material, a polymer screen, or other conceivable porous structures that may be contained in the filter.
[0032] The filter material 116 allows a water flow rate of approximately one to two liters per minute.
[0033] An 0-ring 118 or other typically elastomeric material is spaced within a channel 120. The channel 120 is typically in an upper portion of the filter side wall section 110. The filter side wall section 110 also typically includes at least one, but more typically a plurality, and most typically about three downwardly projecting tabular members 122. The downwardly projecting tabular members 122 are matingly received within spaces 124 of the bottom portion 98 between the interior projecting members 126. The interior projecting members 126 are typically wedged-shaped members or are in the shape of a human incisor tooth and project into the interior of the bottom portion 98 as shown in FIG. 7. The interior projecting members have an upper shelf 128 that extends into the bottom portion as well as tapered sides extending down
[0032] The filter material 116 allows a water flow rate of approximately one to two liters per minute.
[0033] An 0-ring 118 or other typically elastomeric material is spaced within a channel 120. The channel 120 is typically in an upper portion of the filter side wall section 110. The filter side wall section 110 also typically includes at least one, but more typically a plurality, and most typically about three downwardly projecting tabular members 122. The downwardly projecting tabular members 122 are matingly received within spaces 124 of the bottom portion 98 between the interior projecting members 126. The interior projecting members 126 are typically wedged-shaped members or are in the shape of a human incisor tooth and project into the interior of the bottom portion 98 as shown in FIG. 7. The interior projecting members have an upper shelf 128 that extends into the bottom portion as well as tapered sides extending down
14 toward the liquid outlet 130. The somewhat lock-and-key-type engagement where the tabular members 122 are seated at least partially, more typically fully, within the spaces 124, facilitates the secure, but easy engagement and disengagement of the filter by hand and without the use of tools within the bottom portion of the gravity-driven water filter assembly. The engagement also facilitates the engagement of the filter with the bottom filter portion in such a manner that the appropriate indicator, when employed, shows through the cut out portion and that only purposeful adjustment of the filter within the funnel will change the indicator when viewed through the cut out portion 102, 104.
[0034] The gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 will also typically include a filter top 132 that seals the filter media within the overall filter assembly. The filter top is typically a circular top and has a plurality of apertures 134 and a finger gripping central hub 136 that extends upward from the filter top. Typically the central hub is positioned at the center of the filter top, but conceivably the hub could be place at any location along the filter top surface.
[0035] The perimeter rim section 138 of the top portion 94 is typically indented a specific distance from the outer curved dome portion 140 such that the outer curved dome portion mates with the bottom portion 98 in a way such that the outside surface of the bottom portion 98 and the top portion create an at least substantially contiguous surface when assembled such that the exterior of the gravity-driven water filter assembly appears to be a smooth surface when assembled. The indented distance creates a lip 142. The perimeter rim section 138 outer surface typically includes at least one, more typically a plurality, and most typically about three slanted elongated members 144 spaced evenly about the perimeter rim section.
The slanted elongated members extend away from the outer surface and are received in gaps 146 in the interior surface of the bottom portion 98 such that when the top tab portion is engaged with the bottom funnel portion and rotated, the elongated members slide into engagement within the grooves 148 to retain the engagement with one another, but still allowing the two pieces to be disengaged and reengaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 5, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 may be engaged by inserting the filter assembly 16 through the interior aperture 66 of the pitcher cap 14 such that the pitcher cap engagement tabs are spaced within each of the gravity filter and top cover engagement notches. Thereafter the filter assembly may be rotated such that the pitcher cap engagement tabs are positioned within the filter tab receiving grooves of the pitcher cap.
[0037] Thereafter, the top cover 18 may be placed over the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 such that the downwardly extending top cover tab 78 are spaced within the gravity filter and top cover engagement notches. This is typically accomplished by a snap fit engagement where the downwardly extending top cover tabs have a laterally extending ridge 150 that is matingly received in a recessed portion 152, which is typically horizontally oriented, on the interior of the gravity filter and top covering engagement notch 70. This configuration not only prevents or inhibits untreated water from being spilled out of the untreated water receiving aperture 96, but also operates to lock the gravity-driven water filter assembly into engagement with the pitcher cap/adapter. This allows the water pitcher to be used at more angles than it would otherwise be capable of using without spilling. The top cover 18 is typically transparent.
Similarly, the top portion 94 of the gravity-driven water filter assembly is also typically transparent. This allows the user to see the level of untreated water within the water filter assembly 16. The top cover portion also may include one or more design elements 154, which are shown in the present disclosure as a drop shape and/or a brand indicator.
The design elements space the top cover 18 away from the top portion 94 to allow airflow into the untreated water receiving aperture 96.. Additionally, while the top cover 18 and the top portion 94 are preferably transparent, they could conceivably be any color or transparency from transparent to translucent to opaque.
[0038] FIG. 6 shows the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 and the top cover 18 engaged with the filter cap portion in a locking manner in such a way that the engaged components will not separate unless purposefully disassembled by the user. Complete assembly and disassembly of the water pitcher and filter assembly may be done by hand and without the use of tools by the user. Additionally, as discussed above, while preferably a pitcher cap adapter is utilized, the features of the pitcher cap/adapter 14 may be incorporated into the water pitcher itself and the pitcher cap adapter not utilized. This however is not typically done.
[0039] Various gravity-driven water filter assemblies may be used according to the present disclosure, the additional gravity-driven water filter assemblies that may be utilized are disclosed in United States Patent Application Publication Nos. U52014/0151285 Al;
US2014/0151275 Al; US2014/0151284 Al; and US2014/0151304 Al. The entire disclosure of each of these United States Patent Application Publications are hereby incorporated by reference.
[0040] Additionally, a dual stage filter may also be used such as the filter(s) disclosed in the application entitled "WATER FILTERS FOR GRAVITY-FED WATER FILTER PITCHERS"
filed on February 24, 2016 and having serial number 15/052,651, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as well.
[0041] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
[0042] It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
[0034] The gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 will also typically include a filter top 132 that seals the filter media within the overall filter assembly. The filter top is typically a circular top and has a plurality of apertures 134 and a finger gripping central hub 136 that extends upward from the filter top. Typically the central hub is positioned at the center of the filter top, but conceivably the hub could be place at any location along the filter top surface.
[0035] The perimeter rim section 138 of the top portion 94 is typically indented a specific distance from the outer curved dome portion 140 such that the outer curved dome portion mates with the bottom portion 98 in a way such that the outside surface of the bottom portion 98 and the top portion create an at least substantially contiguous surface when assembled such that the exterior of the gravity-driven water filter assembly appears to be a smooth surface when assembled. The indented distance creates a lip 142. The perimeter rim section 138 outer surface typically includes at least one, more typically a plurality, and most typically about three slanted elongated members 144 spaced evenly about the perimeter rim section.
The slanted elongated members extend away from the outer surface and are received in gaps 146 in the interior surface of the bottom portion 98 such that when the top tab portion is engaged with the bottom funnel portion and rotated, the elongated members slide into engagement within the grooves 148 to retain the engagement with one another, but still allowing the two pieces to be disengaged and reengaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools.
[0036] As shown in FIG. 5, the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 may be engaged by inserting the filter assembly 16 through the interior aperture 66 of the pitcher cap 14 such that the pitcher cap engagement tabs are spaced within each of the gravity filter and top cover engagement notches. Thereafter the filter assembly may be rotated such that the pitcher cap engagement tabs are positioned within the filter tab receiving grooves of the pitcher cap.
[0037] Thereafter, the top cover 18 may be placed over the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 such that the downwardly extending top cover tab 78 are spaced within the gravity filter and top cover engagement notches. This is typically accomplished by a snap fit engagement where the downwardly extending top cover tabs have a laterally extending ridge 150 that is matingly received in a recessed portion 152, which is typically horizontally oriented, on the interior of the gravity filter and top covering engagement notch 70. This configuration not only prevents or inhibits untreated water from being spilled out of the untreated water receiving aperture 96, but also operates to lock the gravity-driven water filter assembly into engagement with the pitcher cap/adapter. This allows the water pitcher to be used at more angles than it would otherwise be capable of using without spilling. The top cover 18 is typically transparent.
Similarly, the top portion 94 of the gravity-driven water filter assembly is also typically transparent. This allows the user to see the level of untreated water within the water filter assembly 16. The top cover portion also may include one or more design elements 154, which are shown in the present disclosure as a drop shape and/or a brand indicator.
The design elements space the top cover 18 away from the top portion 94 to allow airflow into the untreated water receiving aperture 96.. Additionally, while the top cover 18 and the top portion 94 are preferably transparent, they could conceivably be any color or transparency from transparent to translucent to opaque.
[0038] FIG. 6 shows the gravity-driven water filter assembly 16 and the top cover 18 engaged with the filter cap portion in a locking manner in such a way that the engaged components will not separate unless purposefully disassembled by the user. Complete assembly and disassembly of the water pitcher and filter assembly may be done by hand and without the use of tools by the user. Additionally, as discussed above, while preferably a pitcher cap adapter is utilized, the features of the pitcher cap/adapter 14 may be incorporated into the water pitcher itself and the pitcher cap adapter not utilized. This however is not typically done.
[0039] Various gravity-driven water filter assemblies may be used according to the present disclosure, the additional gravity-driven water filter assemblies that may be utilized are disclosed in United States Patent Application Publication Nos. U52014/0151285 Al;
US2014/0151275 Al; US2014/0151284 Al; and US2014/0151304 Al. The entire disclosure of each of these United States Patent Application Publications are hereby incorporated by reference.
[0040] Additionally, a dual stage filter may also be used such as the filter(s) disclosed in the application entitled "WATER FILTERS FOR GRAVITY-FED WATER FILTER PITCHERS"
filed on February 24, 2016 and having serial number 15/052,651, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as well.
[0041] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present invention. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.
[0042] It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
Claims (20)
1. A water pitcher and filter assembly comprising:
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir;
a pitcher cap configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and having a top surface, a bottom surface, an interior aperture, and a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface and having an inside facing surface, wherein the inside facing surface engages the perimeter of the water pitcher and wherein the top surface of the pitcher cap comprises at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and the pitcher cap further comprises a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch where the filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab; and a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion, a fluid filter, and a top portion wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir;
a pitcher cap configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and having a top surface, a bottom surface, an interior aperture, and a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface and having an inside facing surface, wherein the inside facing surface engages the perimeter of the water pitcher and wherein the top surface of the pitcher cap comprises at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and the pitcher cap further comprises a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch where the filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab; and a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion, a fluid filter, and a top portion wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation.
2. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the pitcher cap further is removably engaged with the top rim section of the water pitcher and the pitcher cap is removable by hand and without the use of tools from engagement with the water pitcher and wherein a bottom portion of the gravity filter is a funnel-shape and wherein the gravity filter assembly comprises a plurality of pitcher cap engagement tabs and the pitcher cap comprises at least the same number of gravity filter and top cover engagement notches and associated filter tab receiving grooves as the number of pitcher cap engagement tabs of the gravity filter assembly.
3. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 2, wherein the pitcher cap further comprises a hinged spout cover that moves between an at least substantially co-planar position where the spout cover is at least substantially co-planar with the top surface of the pitcher cap and an open position where the spout cover is at an upward angle of from about 5 degrees to about 80 degrees.
4. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the pitcher cap is engaged with the top rim section of the water pitcher by at least two dual ramp members on the inside facing surface of the downwardly extending exterior wall such that the bottom surface of the pitcher cap is spaced from the top rim section of the water pitcher and wherein the bottom section of the water pitcher consists of a planar base.
5. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the gravity filter assembly comprises an outer dome with a curvilinear outer top section with the at least one gravity filter engagement to being positioned along a bottom circumferential portion of the outer dome and extending away from and at an angle to the bottom circumferential portion of the outer dome and wherein the gravity filter assemble further comprises a gravity-fed water treatment media positioned within the gravity filter assembly and a bottom portion that is angled downward to the outlet.
6. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 5, wherein the bottom portion of the gravity filter assembly is funnel-shaped and the filter media is capable of a water flow rate of at least about 1 liter per minute and the media is an activated hollow carbon filtration media that reduces chlorine, taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and removes some of Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlor, Lindane, lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic.
7. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 6, wherein the top portion of the gravity filter assembly further comprises an untreated water receiving aperture and an untreated water retention reservoir within the top portion that is within the interior volume of the top portion and wherein the at least one sidewall and the top section are both continuous with one another and form part of the same wall and the bottom section consists of a flat planar bottom surface such that any portion of the bottom section extending upward from the flat planar bottom surface.
8.
The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion of the gravity filter has at least one treated fluid outlet, an upper perimeter, and a bottom portion side wall that defines an interior volume of the bottom portion and wherein the bottom portion side wall is a shaped surface that is configured to frictionally engage a plurality of differently sized fluid vessel openings separate from the pitcher and still allow treated fluid to be delivered to the interior of a fluid vessel through the at least one treated fluid outlets;
the fluid filter of the gravity filter comprises a fluid treatment medium positioned within the fluid filter wherein the fluid filter is operably engaged with the bottom portion and having a fluid intake location and a fluid outgoing location that delivers treated fluid to the interior volume of the bottom portion and out of the at least one treated fluid outlet of the bottom portion;
the top portion of the gravity filter has an interior volume defined by at least one wall, at least one fluid inlet, and a bottom perimeter defining an opening and wherein the top portion is configured to received fluid from at least one fluid inlet and the bottom perimeter defines an opening that is configured to allow fluid from the at least one fluid inlet to flow into contact with an intake surface of the fluid filter; and wherein the fluid filter is configured to be removably engaged by hand without the use of tools from the bottom portion and the fluid filter, the bottom portion and the top portion are each configured to be removably engaged and disengaged to allow for replacement of the filter and reassembly of the gravity-driven fluid treatment device by hand and without the use of tools.
The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the bottom portion of the gravity filter has at least one treated fluid outlet, an upper perimeter, and a bottom portion side wall that defines an interior volume of the bottom portion and wherein the bottom portion side wall is a shaped surface that is configured to frictionally engage a plurality of differently sized fluid vessel openings separate from the pitcher and still allow treated fluid to be delivered to the interior of a fluid vessel through the at least one treated fluid outlets;
the fluid filter of the gravity filter comprises a fluid treatment medium positioned within the fluid filter wherein the fluid filter is operably engaged with the bottom portion and having a fluid intake location and a fluid outgoing location that delivers treated fluid to the interior volume of the bottom portion and out of the at least one treated fluid outlet of the bottom portion;
the top portion of the gravity filter has an interior volume defined by at least one wall, at least one fluid inlet, and a bottom perimeter defining an opening and wherein the top portion is configured to received fluid from at least one fluid inlet and the bottom perimeter defines an opening that is configured to allow fluid from the at least one fluid inlet to flow into contact with an intake surface of the fluid filter; and wherein the fluid filter is configured to be removably engaged by hand without the use of tools from the bottom portion and the fluid filter, the bottom portion and the top portion are each configured to be removably engaged and disengaged to allow for replacement of the filter and reassembly of the gravity-driven fluid treatment device by hand and without the use of tools.
9. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 8, wherein the water treatment medium reduces chlorine taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and wherein the fluid treatment medium is a gravity driven water treatment medium that allows for a water flow rate of at least about one liter per minute of flow through the water treatment medium solely under a force of gravity.
10. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1, wherein the pitcher top cap further comprises a handle engagement and cover portion the handle engagement portion has a downwardly extending clip receiving wall that engages an upwardly extending clip that extends upward from a top bridge that extends from a handle of the water pitcher to the at least one sidewall section of the water pitcher.
11. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 10, wherein an inside surface of the downwardly extending exterior wall and a downwardly extending exterior facing wall section of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch are engaged with the exterior of the top rim section of the water pitcher and the interior of the top rim section of the water pitcher respectively and in a press fit frictional engagement and wherein the pitcher cap is removably engaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools using the press fit frictional engagement and the mating engagement of the upwardly extending clip and the downwardly extending clip receiving wall.
12. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 11, wherein the water pitcher, the pitcher cap, the gravity filter's bottom portion, and the gravity filter's top portion each comprise plastic and an interior portion of the pitcher handle and the water pitcher are transparent and the pitcher cap and the exterior portion of the handle of the pitcher are opaque and wherein each of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch is sized and configured to receive and retain a single gravity filter engagement tabs of the gravity filter assembly.
13. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 8 further comprising a top cover having a shape that substantially covers the exterior of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and has at least one top cover tab that extends downwardly from the bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and are sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch.
14. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 13, wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch.
15. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 14, wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover an untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and the pitcher has a substantially cylindrical sidewall section.
16. The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 1 further comprising a top cover having a shape that substantially covers the exterior of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and has at least one top cover tab that extends downwardly from the bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and are sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch;
wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover an untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly.
wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover an untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly.
17. A water pitcher and filter assembly comprising:
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section and the bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir wherein the top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch;
a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion, a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture and an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation, and wherein the bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter; and a top cover that at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter and wherein the top cover has at least one top cover tab that extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed and wherein the gravity filter assembly and the top cover are removably engaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools.
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section and the bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir wherein the top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch;
a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion, a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture and an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation, and wherein the bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter; and a top cover that at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter and wherein the top cover has at least one top cover tab that extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed and wherein the gravity filter assembly and the top cover are removably engaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools.
18.
The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover the untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and wherein the water treatment medium reduces chlorine taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and wherein the fluid treatment medium is a gravity driven water treatment medium that allows for a water flow rate of at least about one liter per minute of flow through the water treatment medium solely under a force of gravity and wherein the water pitcher further comprises a spout that is integrally formed as part of the at least one sidewall section proximate the top section; and wherein the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section are part of a pitcher cap configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and having a top surface and a bottom surface, an interior aperture, a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface and having an interior facing surface and a hinged spout cover flap, wherein the interior facing surface engages the perimeter of the water pitcher and wherein the top surface of the pitcher cap comprises at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and the pitcher cap further comprises a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and where the filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab.
The water pitcher and filter assembly of claim 17, wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover the untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and wherein the water treatment medium reduces chlorine taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and wherein the fluid treatment medium is a gravity driven water treatment medium that allows for a water flow rate of at least about one liter per minute of flow through the water treatment medium solely under a force of gravity and wherein the water pitcher further comprises a spout that is integrally formed as part of the at least one sidewall section proximate the top section; and wherein the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section are part of a pitcher cap configured to engage the top rim section of the water pitcher and having a top surface and a bottom surface, an interior aperture, a downwardly extending exterior wall extending downward from an exterior perimeter of the bottom surface and having an interior facing surface and a hinged spout cover flap, wherein the interior facing surface engages the perimeter of the water pitcher and wherein the top surface of the pitcher cap comprises at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and the pitcher cap further comprises a filter tab receiving groove positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and where the filter tab receiving groove is configured to receive a pitcher cap engagement tab.
19. A kit comprising:
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section and the bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir wherein the top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture and an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation, and wherein the bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter.
a water pitcher having a water reservoir; a bottom section; at least one sidewall section that extends upward from the bottom section; and a top section that has a top rim section wherein the at least one sidewall section is between the bottom section and the top section and the bottom section, the at least one sidewall section and the top section together define the water reservoir wherein the top rim section has at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and a filter tab receiving groove associated with the top rim section and positioned adjacent and open to the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and a gravity filter assembly having a bottom portion; a top portion having an untreated water receiving aperture and an interior, untreated water reservoir; and at least one water treatment medium wherein the top portion has at least one pitcher cap engagement tab that is received within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch and rotated into an engaged position within the filter tab receiving groove associated with the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch that the at least one pitcher cap engagement tab was initially received within prior to rotation, and wherein the bottom portion and the top portion are removably engaged with one another by hand and without the use of tools to allow a user access to the interior of the gravity filter.
20. The kit of claim 19 further comprising:
a top cover that at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter and wherein the top cover has at least one top cover tab that extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed and wherein the gravity filter assembly and the top cover are removably engaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools;
and wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover the untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and wherein the water treatment medium reduces chlorine taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and wherein the fluid treatment medium is a gravity driven water treatment medium that allows for a water flow rate of at least about one liter per minute of flow through the water treatment medium solely under a force of gravity and wherein the water pitcher further comprises a spout that is integrally formed as part of the at least one sidewall section proximate the top section.
a top cover that at least substantially mates with and covers a majority of the top portion of the gravity filter and wherein the top cover has at least one top cover tab that extending downwardly from a bottom perimeter surface of the top cover and sized to engage and be retained within the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch to retain the gravity filter assembly in an engaged configuration within the filter tab receiving groove until the top cover is removed and wherein the gravity filter assembly and the top cover are removably engaged with the water pitcher by hand and without the use of tools;
and wherein the at least one top cover tab further comprises a laterally extending ridge that is matingly received in a recessed portion on the interior of the at least one gravity filter and top cover engagement notch; and wherein the top cover is sized to at least substantially match an exterior surface of the top portion and to cover the untreated water receiving aperture of the top portion of the gravity filter assembly and wherein the water treatment medium reduces chlorine taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to a minimum of 60 gallons and wherein the fluid treatment medium is a gravity driven water treatment medium that allows for a water flow rate of at least about one liter per minute of flow through the water treatment medium solely under a force of gravity and wherein the water pitcher further comprises a spout that is integrally formed as part of the at least one sidewall section proximate the top section.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201615087874A | 2016-03-31 | 2016-03-31 | |
| US15/087,874 | 2016-03-31 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2936719A1 true CA2936719A1 (en) | 2017-09-30 |
Family
ID=59959593
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2936719A Abandoned CA2936719A1 (en) | 2016-03-31 | 2016-07-21 | Water pitcher, adapter, and filter system |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2936719A1 (en) |
-
2016
- 2016-07-21 CA CA2936719A patent/CA2936719A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20190723 |