Abstract: A modular filter system using replaceable filter cartridges includes matching adaptor rings in the filter head and on the filter cartridge placed at selected circumferential positions to ensure proper cartridge fit and to provide a proprietary cartridge construction for selected users. The adaptor rings operate only to control cartridge to filter head fit and are not used to drive the rotary valve spindle.

Abstract: A rotary valve spindle for flow control in the head of a filter includes a unitary dual function seal that is carried by the spindle and seals against the inner surface of the filter head during spindle rotation between flow and no-flow positions. The dual function seal greatly simplifies manufacture and assembly of the valve.

Abstract: A modular filter system using replaceable filter cartridges includes a mounting bracket for each filter cartridge and corresponding filter head that includes keyed attachment of the head to the mounting ring on the mounting bracket and modular attachment of the mounting bracket to the modular back plate. Back plates are also modular to permit assembly of a variety of multi-cartridge systems.

Abstract: A modular filter system using replaceable filter cartridges includes matching adaptor rings in the filter head and on the filter cartridge placed at selected circumferential positions to ensure proper cartridge fit and to provide a proprietary cartridge construction for selected users. The adaptor rings operate only to control cartridge to filter head fit and are not used to drive the rotary valve spindle.

Abstract: An assembly method and related subassembly for a water filter element in the housing of a replaceable filter cartridge provides for filter element insertion into the open bottom end of the housing and subsequent attachment of a retaining ring to the upper end of the element such that the element is secured against vertical drop-out until the bottom end of the cartridge can be enclosed with an end cap. The method and subassembly are particularly well adapted to cartridges in which the lower end cap is attached by spin welding. The enclosing end cap may also be provided with end rings to enhance the user's grip in cartridge installation and removal. The end rings may also be color coded for each of cartridge identification and matching to the filter head.

Abstract: The valve spindle for a reverse osmosis (RO) filter system is housed in a filter head and attached to a mounting ring that also carries the replaceable RO cartridge. The RO spindle is locked in the head during normal operation, but can be easily removed, after removal of the cartridge, to permit spindle replacement or repair without disassembly of the head from the mounting bracket.

Abstract: A cartridge for a water treatment system, effective to assist in the removal of contaminants by photocatalytic oxidation and by adsorption, includes a plurality of stacked disks, preferably made of a UV light transmissive material, which disks define circuitous flow paths for water being treated. In a preferred embodiment, the disk surfaces contacted by the water are provided with a coating of a catalyst, such as TiO2, activated by a UV light source positioned in the center of the cartridge.

Abstract: Filter cartridges and methods of use with manifolds of appliances. The filter cartridges can includes components, such as handles, levers, cams, rotatable nuts, actuators, pins, and springs, to assist in removing the filter cartridge from the manifold. Some embodiments of the filter cartridges can include a neck having a non-uniform diameter over a longitudinal length. Other embodiments of the filter cartridges can include a recess that receives a portion of the manifold and the recess can have at least one seal. One embodiment of the invention provides an adapter for use between a manifold and a filter.

Abstract: A unitary multi-function control module 18 for a reverse osmosis water purification system provides all of the necessary flow control functions in a single removable and easily replaceable unit. The module connects directly with a unitary injection molded manifold 14 and includes a control housing having a cover plate 42, a main body 40, and a closure plate 47. The control housing entirely encloses therein the supply flow shutoff valve 46, the reverse osmosis flow control 100, the permeate back flow check valve 82, and all of the interconnections between the manifold and the supply, permeate, and brine flow paths.

Abstract: A multipurpose jet manifold arrangement for use in conjunction with hydro-massage spas and whirlpools. The manifold arrangement can be plumbed to both water and air from various positions so as to facilitate use at various locations in the tub. Further, it can be easily severed into separate single nozzle housings for use as a single nozzle. In a preferred manner, the manifold arrangement is molded from a plastic material.

Abstract: A plumbing nozzle is disclosed that discharges a hollow cylinder of water. In a preferred form, the cylinder flows along a horizontal axis as the water is discharged from the nozzle. The nozzle has a core member with an angled wall surface which directs water against an inner wall surface of the nozzle. The inner wall encloses upon itself and has an outwardly diverging wall surface. The nozzle is particularly useful in conjunction with a bathing fixture with recirculating water.

Abstract: A multipurpose jet manifold arrangement for use in conjunction with hydro-massage spas and whirlpools. The manifold arrangement can be plumbed to both water and air from various positions so as to facilitate use at various locations in the tub. Further, it can be easily severed into separate single nozzle housings for use as a single nozzle. In a preferred manner, the manifold arrangement is molded from a plastic material.

Abstract: A removable guide assembly for a slidable panel which is retained in and released from a rail track for the panel by a release mechanism composed of a button-activated spring clip. The removable guide is particularly suited for use with a double panel bathing shower door and includes a guide cushion for placement between the panels. In a preferred embodiment, the removable guide assembly is connected to the rail track for the slidable panel by a hook and latch member.

Abstract: A head rest assembly is provided for use in conjunction with a bathing fixture such as a hydro-massage whirlpool. A pillow is provided which can be easily connected and supported by the jet nozzle assembly. A support bracket is partially enclosed in the pillow for connection with the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly has a living hinge feature which allows adaptation to various curvatures of the tub wall. A magnet can be connected to a bracket and a reed switch is connected to the nozzle assembly which serves as a safety feature.

Abstract: A door system for a bathing enclosure which includes a track extending above an opening of the enclosure with the track having a rail with an upper surface having a longitudinal groove. A door has first and second rollers which ride in the rail groove, so that the door is suspended from and slidable along the track. A separate stop is associated with each roller with each stop having a first locking bracket fixed to the door and a member is movably attached to the locking bracket. The members are adjustable between a first position at which the first roller may be removed from the groove and a second position at which the first member strikes the track before the first roller can be removed from the groove.

Abstract: A whirlpool tub has a first set of nozzles located to direct water against the back of a bather and a second set of nozzles to direct water against the bather's neck. A controller has different modes of operation in which water is emitted by either one or both sets of nozzles. Separate mechanisms are provided to direct a pulse of water sequentially through different nozzles in each set. This action produces a progression of pulsating water jets that create a massaging effect on the bather's skin. A pillow is placed about the second set of nozzles. A sensor is provided to detect when the pillow is removed and disable water flow through the second set of nozzles.

Abstract: A head rest assembly is provided for use in conjunction with a bathing fixture such as a hydro-massage whirlpool. A pillow is provided which can be easily connected and supported by the jet nozzle assembly. A support bracket is partially enclosed in the pillow for connection with the nozzle assembly. The nozzle assembly has a living hinge feature which allows adaptation to various curvatures of the tub wall. A magnet can be connected to a bracket and a reed switch is connected to the nozzle assembly which serves as a safety feature.

Abstract: A flushing mechanism for a toilet triggers a flush in response to the closing of the toilet seat cover. A magnet is attached to the seat cover and detected by a sensor. The sensor activates a battery powered motor having a crank arm which directly raises a flapper valve by means of a tensile link. The sensor and motor unit are suspended out of sight in the tank of the toilet by flanges fitting between the tank rim and the tank top. The flanges allow adjustment of the motor and sensor to a variety of preexisting tank type toilets for effective retrofitting. A delay timer prevents repeated energy wasting flushing of the toilet.