Water filtering system with replaceable cartridge for a refrigerator
US6303031A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | Oct 16, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 7, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S210/17
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A water filtering system for a refrigerator includes a mounting head preferably arranged under a temperature control housing in a fresh food compartment. A replaceable filter cartridge is adapted to be selectively attached to the mounting head in order to complete a fluid circuit from a water supply source to at least one of a water dispenser and an ice maker. The filter cartridge and the mounting head have cooperating camming structure which axially draws a stem portion of the cartridge into a port of the mounting head upon rotation of the cartridge relative to the mounting head during installation of the cartridge. Furthermore, camming structure is also provided to at least partially, axially withdraw the stem portion from the port upon rotation of the cartridge a predetermined amount in an opposing direction. Also provided as part of the water filtering system is a plug which can be used to complete the fluid circuit in the absence of a filter cartridge. A switching assembly is incorporated to electrically signal the presence of one of the water filter cartridge or plug in order to permit the flow of water through the system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.