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TRANSCRIPT
MAI MULT A MINIATUT TU LINA DI MINI US010040009B1
( 12 ) United States Patent Krause et al .
( 10 ) Patent No . : US 10 , 040 , 009 B1 ( 45 ) Date of Patent : * Aug . 7 , 2018
( 54 ) FILTER CARTRIDGE ( 56 ) References Cited U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS @ ( 71 ) Applicant : Haier US Appliance Solutions , Inc . ,
Wilmington , DE ( US )
@ ( 72 ) Inventors : Andrew Reinhard Krause , Louisville , KY ( US ) ; Gregory Sergeevich Chernov , Louisville , KY ( US )
3 , 995 , 636 A 4 , 855 , 077 A 5 , 089 , 144 A 5 , 171 , 430 A 5 , 190 , 666 A 5 , 192 , 424 A 5 , 328 , 597 A 5 , 536 , 264 A 5 , 907 , 958 A 6 , 009 , 404 A 6 , 051 , 144 A 6 , 139 , 738 A 6 , 303 , 031 B1
@ ( 73 ) Assignee : Haier US Appliance Solutions , Inc . , Wilmington , DE ( US )
12 / 1976 Murray et al . 8 / 1989 Shikinami et al . 2 / 1992 Ozkahyaoglu et al .
12 / 1992 Beach et al . 3 / 1993 Bisconte 3 / 1993 Beyne et al . 7 / 1994 Boldt , Jr . et al . 7 / 1996 Hsueh et al . 6 / 1999 Coates et al .
12 / 1999 Eimer 4 / 2000 Clack et al .
10 / 2000 Maxwell 10 / 2001 Senner
( Continued )
@ ( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer , the term of this patent is extended or adjusted under 35 U . S . C . 154 ( b ) by 0 days . This patent is subject to a terminal dis claimer . FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
EP JP ( 21 ) Appl . No . : 15 / 633 , 932 ( 22 ) Filed : Jun . 27 , 2017
1936305 A2 6 / 2008 2001016025 A 1 / 2001
( Continued )
OTHER PUBLICATIONS ( 51 ) Int . Ci . B01D 35 / 14 ( 2006 . 01 ) B01D 35 / 143 ( 2006 . 01 ) CO2F 1 / 00 ( 2006 . 01 ) B01D 35 / 30 ( 2006 . 01 ) A61F 13 / 42 ( 2006 . 01 )
( 52 ) U . S . CI . CPC . . . . . . . . . . . . BOLD 35 / 143 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; A61F 13 / 42
( 2013 . 01 ) ; BOID 35 / 30 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; CO2F 1 / 001 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; CO2F 1 / 003 ( 2013 . 01 ) ; BOID
2201 / 56 ( 2013 . 01 ) ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search
CPC . . BO1D 35 / 143 ; B01D 35 / 1435 ; B01D 35 / 30 ; BO1D 2201 / 56 ; FO1M 11 / 03 ; F01M
11 / 04 ; FO2M 37 / 221 ; CO2F 1 / 001 ; CO2F 1 / 003 ; GO6K 7 / 10366 ; A61F 13 / 42
USPC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340 / 10 . 5 , 10 . 42 , 572 . 9 See application file for complete search history .
PCT Search Report and Written Opinion PCT / US2014 / 056282 , dated Nov . 27 , 2014 . ( 11 pages ) .
( Continued ) Primary Examiner — Ali Neyzari ( 74 ) Attorney , Agent , or Firm — Dority & Manning , P . A . ( 57 ) ABSTRACT A filter cartridge includes a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer surface of a casing . The radio frequency identification tag includes an antenna and an integrated circuit . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected to one or more of the casing , a water absorbent material and a fiber fabric positioned over the radio frequency identifi cation tag on the outer surface of the casing .
20 Claims , 10 Drawing Sheets
236
230
262 - 264
272 VIA 240
/ / 244 270 260 / / proteine 242
RFID READER
/ 235 35
234
1 238
US 10 , 040 , 009 B1 Page 2
( 56 ) References Cited U . S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
2011 / 0036109 AL 2 / 2011 Krause et al . 2011 / 0062060 A1 3 / 2011 Royal et al . 2011 / 0306782 A1 12 / 2011 Taillefer et al . 2012 / 0297817 A1 11 / 2012 Krause et al . 2013 / 0008838 A1 1 / 2013 Burke et al . 2013 / 0068673 Al 3 / 2013 Maggiore et al . 2013 / 0075479 A1 3 / 2013 Mieslinger 2013 / 0143004 Al 6 / 2013 Takashima et al . 2013 / 0299588 A1 7 / 2013 Lin 2013 / 0240431 A1 9 / 2013 Foix et al . 2014 / 0110331 A14 / 2014 Baird 2014 / 0200538 A1 * 7 / 2014 Euliano . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A61F 13 / 42
604 / 361 2014 / 0305930 Al 10 / 2014 Heizer et al . 2014 / 0353235 AL 12 / 2014 Sherman et al . 2015 / 0102931 A14 / 2015 Chernov et al . 2015 / 0290567 Al 10 / 2015 Chernov et al . 2015 / 0290568 A1 10 / 2015 Chernov et al . 2015 / 0290569 Al 10 / 2015 Chernov et al .
FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
6 , 355 , 177 B2 3 / 2002 Senner et al . 6 , 533 , 926 B2 3 / 2003 Hawkins et al . 6 , 537 , 444 B2 3 / 2003 Wilberscheid et al . 6 , 551 , 503 B2 4 / 2003 Niers et al . 6 , 753 , 783 B2 6 / 2004 Friedman et al . 6 , 865 , 941 B2 3 / 2005 Gibbs 6 , 950 , 032 B1 9 / 2005 Hewitt et al . 7 , 067 , 054 B2 6 / 2006 Fritze RE39 , 361 E 10 / 2006 Den Dekker 7 , 481 , 917 B2 1 / 2009 Ikeyama et al . 7 , 638 , 042 B2 12 / 2009 Astle et al . 7 , 736 , 495 B2 6 / 2010 Ikeyama et al . 7 , 836 , 708 B2 11 / 2010 Krause et al . 7 , 855 , 649 B2 12 / 2010 Masin 8 , 118 , 997 B2 2 / 2012 Ebrom et al . 8 , 169 , 318 B2 5 / 2012 Atherton 8 , 196 , 809 B2 6 / 2012 Thorstensson 8 , 216 , 463 B1 7 / 2012 Baird 8 , 242 , 893 B1 8 / 2012 Lin 8 , 282 , 820 B2 10 / 2012 Cur et al . 8 , 289 , 173 B2 . 10 / 2012 Ben - Mansour et al . 8 , 427 , 316 B2 4 / 2013 Bielas 8 , 695 , 371 B2 4 / 2014 Boarman et al . 8 , 746 , 003 B2 6 / 2014 Yoon 8 , 893 , 976 B111 / 2014 Lindblad et al . 8 , 991 , 709 B2 3 / 2015 Mieslinger 9 , 361 , 776 B2 6 / 2016 Teeter
2002 / 0189983 A112 / 2002 Guess et al . 2004 / 0001991 AL 1 / 2004 Kinkelaar et al . 2004 / 0007516 A1 1 / 2004 Fritze et al . 2004 / 0251210 A112 / 2004 Fritze et al . 2005 / 0092070 A15 / 2005 Bhatti 2005 / 0167352 A1 8 / 2005 Burrows et al . 2005 / 0194317 Al 9 / 2005 Ikeyama et al . 2006 / 0011523 A1 1 / 2006 Schrott et al . 2006 / 0060512 A1 3 / 2006 Astle et al . 2006 / 0186031 A1 8 / 2006 Fick et al . 2008 / 0094220 A1 4 / 2008 Foley et al . 2010 / 0100026 A1 4 / 2010 Morris 2010 / 0275633 A111 / 2010 An et al .
As KR WO WO WO WO WO WO WO WO
2003192096 A 7 / 2003 2006258684 A 9 / 2006 2007147356 A 6 / 2007 2007163255 A 6 / 2007
20120120844 A 11 / 2012 WO83 / 02523 AL 7 / 1983 W097 / 38272 AL 10 / 1997 WO03 / 011426 A1 2 / 2003 W003 / 084875 Al 10 / 2003
WO2004 / 037383 A15 / 2004 WO2006 / 093657 A2 9 / 2006 WO2008 / 125530 Al 10 / 2008 WO2013 / 13004 Al 10 / 2013
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
PCT Search Report and Written Opinion PCT / US2014 / 060223 , dated Jan . 23 , 2015 . ( 9 pages ) .
* cited by examiner
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US 10 , 040 , 009 B1
FILTER CARTRIDGE signal communication of the radio frequency identification tag is disrupted when liquid water is disposed within the
FIELD OF THE INVENTION water absorbent material . A water impermeable material is positioned over the water absorbent material and the radio
The present subject matter relates generally to water 5 frequency identification tag on the outer surface of the filters with RFID systems . casing . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both the
antenna and the integrated circuit are adhered to one or more BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION of the casing , the water absorbent material and a fiber fabric
positioned over the radio frequency identification tag on the Certain water filter assemblies include a manifold and a 10 " outer surface of the casing . filter cartridge . The manifold directs unfiltered water into the In a second example embodiment , a filter cartridge is filter cartridge and filtered water out of the filter cartridge . provided . The filter cartridge includes a casing . A filter The filter cartridge includes a filter medium , such as an medium is positioned within the casing . A radio frequency activated carbon block , a pleated polymer sheet , a spun cord identification tag is positioned at an outer surface of the material , or a melt blown material . The filter medium is 15 positioned within the filter cartridge and filters water passing casing . The radio frequency identification tag includes an therethrough . antenna and an integrated circuit . A water absorbent material Over time , the filter medium will lose effectiveness . For is positioned proximate the radio frequency identification
example , pores of the filter medium can become clogged or tag such that signal communication of the radio frequency the filter medium can become saturated with contaminants . 20 identification tag is disrupted when liquid water is disposed To insure that the filtering medium has not exceeded its within the water absorbent material . A water impermeable filtering capacity , the filtering medium is preferably replaced material is positioned over the water absorbent material and or serviced at regular intervals regardless of its current the radio frequency identification tag on the outer surface of performance . To permit replacement or servicing of the filter the casing . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both the medium or the filter cartridge , the filter cartridge is generally 25 antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected to removably mounted to the manifold . one or more of the casing and the water absorbent material .
Water leaks can form or develop at an interface or In a third example embodiment , a filter cartridge is connection between the filter cartridge and the manifold , provided . The filter cartridge includes a casing . A filter such as where the filter cartridge mounts to the manifold . As medium is positioned within the casing . A radio frequency an example , such leaks can develop if the water filter 30 identification tag is positioned at an outer surface of the assembly is installed incorrectly or is exposed to relatively casing . The radio frequency identification tag includes an high water pressures or freezing conditions . Such leaks can antenna and an integrated circuit . A fiber reinforced water negatively affect operation of the water filter assembly absorbent material is positioned proximate the radio fre and / or the refrigerator appliance and can cause damage if quency identification tag such that signal communication of not prevented . Such leaks can also be difficult to detect . In 35 the radio frequency identification tag is disrupted when particular , water filter assemblies are often positioned in liquid water is disposed within the fiber reinforced water relatively remote locations within refrigerator appliances absorbent material . A water impermeable material is posi such that visually monitoring the water filter assemblies for tioned over the fiber reinforced water absorbent material and leaks can be difficult or infrequent . Similar problems can the radio frequency identification tag on the outer surface of make detecting liquid water and water leaks difficult in other 40 the casing . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both the circumstances and locations as well . antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected to
Accordingly , a filter cartridge with features for detecting the fiber reinforced water absorbent material . liquid , such as liquid water , would be useful . In particular , In a fourth example embodiment , a filter cartridge is a filter cartridge with tamper resistant features for detecting provided . The filter cartridge includes a casing . A filter liquid , such as liquid water , would be useful . 45 medium is positioned within the casing . A radio frequency
identification tag is positioned at an outer surface of the BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION casing . The radio frequency identification tag includes an
antenna and an integrated circuit . A water absorbent material The present subject matter provides a filter cartridge with is positioned proximate the radio frequency identification
a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer 50 tag such that signal communication of the radio frequency surface of a casing . The radio frequency identification tag identification tag is disrupted when liquid water is disposed includes an antenna and an integrated circuit . The antenna , within the water absorbent material . A fiber fabric is posi the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated tioned over the radio frequency identification tag on the circuit are fixedly connected to one or more of the casing , a outer surface of the casing . A water impermeable material is water absorbent material and a fiber fabric positioned over 55 positioned over the water absorbent material and the radio the radio frequency identification tag on the outer surface of frequency identification tag on the outer surface of the the casing . Additional aspects and advantages of the inven - casing . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both the tion will be set forth in part in the following description , or antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected to may be apparent from the description , or may be learned the fiber fabric . through practice of the invention . 60 In a fifth example embodiment , a filter cartridge is pro
In a first example embodiment , a filter cartridge is pro - vided . The filter cartridge includes a casing . A filter medium vided . The filter cartridge includes a casing . A filter medium is positioned within the casing . A radio frequency identifi is positioned within the casing . A radio frequency identifi c ation tag is positioned at an outer surface of the casing . The cation tag is positioned at an outer surface of the casing . The radio frequency identification tag includes an antenna and an radio frequency identification tag includes an antenna and an 65 integrated circuit . The antenna , the integrated circuit or both integrated circuit . A water absorbent material is positioned the antenna and the integrated circuit are adhered to the proximate the radio frequency identification tag such that casing .
US 10 , 040 , 009 B1
These and other features , aspects and advantages of the appliance 100 and a freezer chamber 124 arranged below present invention will become better understood with refer - fresh food chamber 122 on the vertical direction V , e . g . , at ence to the following description and appended claims . The lower portion 102 of refrigerator appliance 100 . As such , accompanying drawings , which are incorporated in and refrigerator appliance 100 is generally referred to as a constitute a part of this specification , illustrate embodiments 5 bottom mount refrigerator appliance . However , using the of the invention and , together with the description , serve to teachings disclosed herein , one of skill in the art will explain the principles of the invention . understand that the present subject matter may be used with
other types of refrigerator appliances ( e . g . , side - by - side style BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS or top mount style ) or a freezer appliance as well . Conse
10 quently , the description set forth herein is for illustrative A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention , purposes only and is not intended to limit the present subject
including the best mode thereof , directed to one of ordinary matter to any particular chilled chamber arrangement . skill in the art , is set forth in the specification , which makes Refrigerator doors 126 and 128 are rotatably hinged to an reference to the appended figures . edge of cabinet 120 for accessing fresh food chamber 122 .
FIG . 1 provides a front , elevation view of a refrigerator 15 In particular , cabinet 120 defines an opening 121 . Opening appliance according to an example embodiment of the 121 of cabinet 120 permits access to fresh food chamber 122 present subject matter with refrigerator doors of the example of cabinet 120 . Refrigerator doors 126 and 128 are posi refrigerator appliance shown in a closed position . tioned at opening 121 of cabinet 120 and permit selective
FIG . 2 provides a front , elevation view of the example access to fresh food chamber 122 of cabinet 120 through refrigerator appliance of FIG . 1 with refrigerator doors of the 20 opening 121 of cabinet 120 , e . g . , by rotating between the example refrigerator appliance shown in an open position . open and closed positions . A freezer door 130 is arranged
FIG . 3 provides a front , elevation view of a water filter below refrigerator doors 126 and 128 for accessing freezer assembly according to an example embodiment of the chamber 124 . Freezer door 130 is coupled to a freezer present subject matter . drawer ( not shown ) slidably mounted within freezer cham
FIG . 4 provides a perspective view of a filter cartridge of 25 ber 124 . the example water filter assembly of FIG . 3 . Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a dispensing
FIGS . 5 and 6 provide elevation views of the filter assembly 110 for dispensing water and / or ice . Dispensing cartridge of FIG . 4 . assembly 110 includes a dispenser 114 positioned on or
FIG . 7 provides a plan view of certain components of an mounted to an exterior portion of refrigerator appliance 100 , example system for detecting liquid water . 30 e . g . , on refrigerator door 126 . Dispenser 114 includes a
FIGS . 8 through 15 provide various section views of the discharging outlet 134 for accessing ice and water . A sensor example system of FIG . 7 with respective arrangements for 132 , such as an ultrasonic sensor , is mounted below dis fixedly connecting a component the example system to the charging outlet 134 for operating dispenser 114 . In alterna filter cartridge of FIG . 4 . tive example embodiments , any suitable actuator may be
35 used to operate dispenser 114 . For example , dispenser 114 DETAILED DESCRIPTION can include a paddle or button rather than sensor 132 . A user
interface panel 136 is provided for controlling the mode of Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of operation . For example , user interface panel 136 includes a
the invention , one or more examples of which are illustrated water dispensing button ( not labeled ) and an ice - dispensing in the drawings . Each example is provided by way of 40 button ( not labeled ) for selecting a desired mode of opera explanation of the invention , not limitation of the invention . tion such as crushed or non - crushed ice . In fact , it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that Discharging outlet 134 and sensor 132 are an external part various modifications and variations can be made in the of dispenser 114 and are mounted in a dispenser recess 138 present invention without departing from the scope or spirit defined in an outside surface of refrigerator door 126 . of the invention . For instance , features illustrated or 45 Dispenser recess 138 is positioned at a predetermined eleva described as part of one embodiment can be used with tion convenient for a user to access ice or water and enabling another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment . the user to access ice without the need to bend - over and Thus , it is intended that the present invention covers such without the need to access freezer chamber 124 . In the modifications and variations as come within the scope of the example embodiment , dispenser recess 138 is positioned at appended claims and their equivalents . 50 a level that approximates the chest level of a user .
FIG . 1 provides a front , elevation view of a refrigerator Turning now to FIG . 2 , certain components of dispensing appliance 100 according to an example embodiment of the assembly 110 are illustrated . Dispensing assembly 110 present subject matter . FIG . 2 provides a front , elevation includes an insulated housing 142 mounted within fresh view of refrigerator appliance 100 with refrigerator doors food chamber 122 . Due to the insulation which encloses 126 and 128 of refrigerator appliance 100 shown in an open 55 insulated housing 142 , the temperature within insulated position to reveal a fresh food chamber 122 of refrigerator housing 142 can be maintained at levels different from the appliance 100 . Refrigerator appliance 100 defines a vertical ambient temperature in the surrounding fresh food chamber direction V , and a lateral direction L . The vertical direction 122 . V and lateral direction L are perpendicular . Refrigerator Insulated housing 142 is constructed and arranged to appliance 100 extends between an upper portion 101 and a 60 operate at a temperature that facilitates producing and stor lower portion 102 along the vertical direction V . Refrigerator ing ice . More particularly , insulated housing 142 contains an appliance 100 also extends between a first side portion 105 ice maker ( not shown ) for creating ice and feeding the same and a second side portion 106 along the lateral direction L . to a container 160 that is mounted on refrigerator door 126 .
Refrigerator appliance 100 includes a cabinet 120 that As illustrated in FIG . 2 , container 160 is placed at a vertical defines chilled chambers for receipt of food items for 65 position on refrigerator door 126 that will allow for the storage . In particular , refrigerator appliance 100 defines receipt of ice from a discharge opening 162 located along a fresh food chamber 122 at upper portion 101 of refrigerator bottom edge 164 of insulated housing 142 . As refrigerator
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door 126 is closed or opened , container 160 is moved in and shown ) of cabinet 120 to mount water filter assembly 200 to out of position under insulated housing 142 . refrigerator appliance 100 . As another example , housing 210
Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a water filter may be mounted to a wall of building or residence , e . g . , assembly 170 . Water filter assembly 170 can filter water when water filter assembly 200 is utilized as a point - of - entry from a water supply ( not shown ) , such as a municipal water 5 water filter . source or a well . Water filter assembly 170 can remove Water filter assembly 200 also includes a manifold 220 . contaminants and other undesirable substances from water Manifold 220 is mounted to housing 210 . Manifold 220 is passing therethrough . As used herein , the term “ water ” configured for receiving unfiltered water and directing fil includes purified water and solutions or mixtures containing tered water out of water filter assembly 200 . In particular , water and , e . g . , elements ( such as calcium , chlorine , and 10 manifold 220 includes an inlet conduit 221 that defines an fluorine ) , salts , bacteria , nitrates , organics , and other chemi - inlet 222 . Inlet 222 receives unfiltered water , e . g . , from a cal compounds or substances . water source ( not shown ) such as a municipal water supply
Water filter assembly 170 is mounted to cabinet 120 . In or a well . Manifold 220 also includes an outlet conduit 223 particular , water filter assembly 170 is mounted to refrig - that defines an outlet 224 . Outlet 224 directs filtered water erator door 126 in the example embodiment shown in FIG . 15 out of water filter assembly 200 . Thus , manifold 220 2 . However , it should be understood that water filter assem - receives unfiltered water at inlet 222 . Such unfiltered water bly 170 can be positioned at any other suitable location passes through water filter assembly 200 and exits manifold within refrigerator appliance 100 in alternative example 220 at outlet 224 as filtered water . embodiments . For example , water filter assembly 170 may As shown in FIG . 3 , water filter assembly 200 includes a be mounted to refrigerator door 128 , to cabinet 120 within 20 filter canister or filter cartridge 230 for filtering unfiltered fresh food chamber 122 , or to cabinet 120 below freezer water received at inlet 222 of manifold 220 . Thus , filter chamber 124 in alternative example embodiments . Thus , the cartridge 230 filters water passing through water filter position of water filter assembly 170 shown in FIG . 2 is not assembly 200 . Filter cartridge 230 extends between a first intended to limit the present subject matter in any aspect and end portion 232 and a second end portion 234 , e . g . , along the is provided by way of example only . 25 lateral direction L . A connection 236 of filter cartridge 230
Refrigerator appliance 100 also includes a valve 172 as is positioned at or proximate first end portion 232 of filter schematically shown in FIG . 2 . Valve 172 is configured for cartridge 230 . Connection 236 of filter cartridge 230 is regulating a flow of water to water filter assembly 170 . In configured for engaging manifold 220 , e . g . , in order to particular , valve 172 can selectively shift between a closed removably mount filter cartridge 230 to manifold 220 . position and an open position . Valve 172 permits the flow of 30 Connection 236 of filter cartridge 230 also places filter water to water filter assembly 170 in the open position . Thus , cartridge 230 in fluid communication with manifold 220 with valve 172 in the open position , water for filtering is when filter cartridge 230 is mounted to manifold 220 . Thus , supplied to water filter assembly 170 . Conversely , valve 172 filter cartridge 230 can receive unfiltered water from inlet obstructs or blocks the flow of water to water filter assembly 222 of manifold 220 at connection 236 and direct such 170 in the closed position . Thus , with valve 172 in the closed 35 unfiltered water into a chamber 231 defined by a casing 235 position , water for filtering is not supplied to water filter of filter cartridge 230 when filter cartridge 230 is mounted assembly 170 or is supplied to water filter assembly 170 in to manifold 220 . Water within chamber 231 can pass through an insubstantial volume . In such a manner , valve 172 can a filtering medium 233 positioned within chamber 231 and regulate the flow of water to water filter assembly 170 by can exit chamber 231 as filtered water . In particular , con shifting between the open and closed positions . 40 nection 236 of filter cartridge 230 can direct filtered water
FIG . 3 provides a front elevation view of a water filter out of chamber 231 to outlet 224 of manifold 220 when filter assembly 200 according to an example embodiment of the cartridge 230 is mounted to manifold 220 . In such a manner , present subject matter . Water filter assembly 200 can be used filtering medium 233 of filter cartridge 230 can filter a flow in any suitable appliance . For example , water filter assembly of water through water filter assembly 200 . Such filtering 200 may be used in refrigerator appliance 100 ( FIG . 2 ) as 45 can improve taste and / or safety of water . water filter assembly 170 ( FIG . 2 ) . As discussed in greater Filtering medium 233 can include any suitable mecha detail below , water filter assembly 200 is configured for n ism for filtering water within water filter assembly 200 . For filtering water passing therethrough . In such a manner , water example , filtering medium 233 may include an activated filter assembly 200 can provide filtered water to various carbon block , a reverse osmosis membrane , a pleated poly components of refrigerator appliance 100 , such as dispens - 50 mer or cellulose sheet , or a melt blown or spun cord ing assembly 110 or the ice maker ( not shown ) within medium . As used herein , the term " unfiltered " describes insulated housing 142 . Water filter assembly 200 may also water that is not filtered relative to filtering medium 233 . be used to filter water at any other suitable location . For However , water filter assembly 200 may include additional example , water filter assembly 200 may be utilized as a filters that filter water entering chamber 231 . Thus , " unfil point - of - entry water filter for a building or residence . As 55 tered ” may be filtered relative to other filters but not filtering another example , water filter assembly 200 may be utilized medium 233 . as a point - of - use water filter for a faucet , a water fountain , Filtering medium 233 of filter cartridge 230 can lose etc . efficacy over time . Thus , a user can replace filter cartridge As may be seen in FIG . 3 , water filter assembly 200 and / or filtering medium 233 of filter cartridge 230 at regular
includes a housing 210 . Housing 210 extends between a top 60 intervals or after a certain volume of water has passed portion 212 and a bottom portion 214 , e . g . , along the vertical through filter cartridge 230 . To replace filter cartridge 230 direction V . As an example , housing 210 can be mounted to and / or filtering medium 233 of filter cartridge 230 , the user any suitable portion of refrigerator appliance 100 in order to can remove or disconnect filter cartridge 230 from manifold mount water filter assembly 200 to refrigerator appliance 220 and insert or mount a new filter cartridge 230 or filtering 100 . For example , housing 210 may be mounted to refrig - 65 medium 233 of filter cartridge 230 . erator door 126 or cabinet 120 . In particular , housing 210 Water filter assembly 200 can be exposed to a variety of may be encased within or engage insulating foam ( not conditions within that can negatively affect performance of
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water filter assembly 200 . For example , high water pressure RFID tag 244 , e . g . , within the gap between RFID reader 242 at inlet 222 of manifold 220 and / or connection 236 of filter and RFID tag 244 . Thus , the signal communication between cartridge 230 or exposing water filter assembly 200 to RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 can be disrupted or freezing conditions can negatively affect performance of terminated if the transmission medium changes and another water filter assembly 200 . Such conditions can cause water 5 material is positioned between RFID reader 242 and RFID filter assembly 200 to leak , e . g . , at connection 236 of filter tag 244 . For example , if water is positioned between RFID cartridge 230 . Such conditions can also cause water filter reader 242 and RFID tag 244 , the signal communication assembly 200 to deform or crack . As discussed in greater between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 can be termi detail below , water filter assembly 200 includes features for nated or disrupted . In particular , liquid water can absorb detecting such malfunctions of water filter assembly 200 . 10 radio waves and thereby terminate or disrupt signal com
FIG . 4 provides a perspective view of filter cartridge 230 munication between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 . of water filter assembly 200 . FIGS . 5 and 6 provide elevation Liquid water can also affect transmission and reception of views of filter cartridge 230 . As may be seen in FIGS . 4 , 5 radio waves by antennas of RFID reader 242 and / or RFID and 6 , water filter assembly 200 includes a system 240 for tag 244 . As discussed in greater detail below , when signal detecting liquid water . It should be understood that system 15 communication between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 240 can be used to detect liquid water and / or water leaks in is disrupted , lost or terminated , it can be inferred that liquid any other suitable setup or arrangement in alternative water is disposed between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag example embodiments . Thus , while described in the context 244 ( e . g . , that liquid water is disposed within the gap of water filter assembly 200 , system 240 may be used to between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 ) . For example , detect water leaks from any suitable container , vessel , pipe 20 when signal communication between RFID reader 242 and or conduit or to detect liquid water in the container , vessel , RFID tag 244 is interrupted , it can be inferred that water pipe or conduit or on the surface in alternative example filter assembly 200 is leaking or otherwise malfunctioning . embodiments . System 240 also include features for wicking liquid from
As may be seen in FIG . 4 , system 240 includes a radio a liquid collection location to RFID tag 244 . Thus , RFID tag frequency identification reader or RFID reader 242 ( shown 25 244 may detect liquid water and / or water leaks despite RFID schematically ) . System 240 also includes a radio frequency tag 244 being spaced apart or remotely located from the identification tag or RFID tag 244 , e . g . , positioned on casing liquid collection location . As an example , RFID tag 244 may 235 opposite filtering medium 233 . RFID reader 242 is be positioned above a pool of liquid , e . g . , along the vertical configured for receiving a signal from RFID tag 244 . Thus , direction V , formed by liquid leaking from filter cartridge RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 can be in signal 30 230 and / or connection 236 of filter cartridge 230 and mani communication with each other . For example , RFID reader fold 220 . The liquid can be wicked upwardly to RFID tag 242 and RFID tag 244 may be in signal communication with 244 in order to disrupt or terminate the signal communica each other as described in U . S . Pat . No . 9 , 366 , 388 entitled tion between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 . “ A Refrigerator Appliance and A Method For Monitoring A As may be seen in FIG . 6 , system 240 includes a hydro Water Filter Assembly Within The Same ” and / or U . S . Pat . 35 scopic or absorbent material 260 . Absorbent material 260 No . 9 , 274 , 020 entitled “ A System And A Method For extends between a first end portion 262 and a second end Detecting Liquid Water , " both of which are incorporated by portion 264 , e . g . , along the vertical direction V . First and reference herein in their entireties . second end portions 262 and 264 of absorbent material 260
In certain example embodiments , RFID tag 244 is a are spaced apart from each other , e . g . , along the vertical passive RFID tag . Thus , RFID reader 242 can receive a radio 40 direction V and / or circumferentially on filter cartridge 230 . signal from RFID tag 244 in response to a query or request Thus , first and second end portions 262 and 264 of absorbent signal from RFID reader 242 . In particular , RFID tag 244 material 260 may be positioned at separate locations , and can generate or transmit the response radio signal utilizing absorbent material 260 may wick or otherwise transfer energy transmitted , e . g . , wirelessly , to RFID tag 244 from liquid between the first and second end portions 262 and 264 RFID reader 242 via the query or request signal from RFID 45 of absorbent material 260 . As an example , first end portion reader 242 . Thus , RFID tag 244 need not include a battery 262 of absorbent material 260 may be positioned at a liquid or other power source in order to generate or transmit the collection location . Conversely , second end portion 264 of response radio signal . In other example embodiments , RFID absorbent material 260 may be positioned at or over RFID tag 244 is an active RFID tag and includes a battery or is tag 244 . Thus , second end portion 264 of absorbent material connected to a suitable power source . Thus , RFID tag 244 50 260 and RFID tag 244 may be spaced apart from the liquid can continuously or intermittently generate or transmit a collection location , and absorbent material 260 may wick or signal that RFID reader 242 can receive . RFID reader 242 otherwise transfer liquid from the liquid collection location and RFID tag 244 can have any other suitable setup or to the RFID tag 244 . In such a manner , absorbent material configuration for placing RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 260 may assist with permitting RFID tag 244 to be posi in signal communication with each other . Thus , RFID reader 55 tioned remotely relative to the liquid collection location , 242 may be passive or active , and RFID tag 244 may be and , thereby , permit detection of liquid with system 240 at passive or active depending upon the desired setup of system locations where RFID tag 244 cannot be directly positioned . 240 . Absorbent material 260 may be any suitable absorbent
Signal communication between RFID reader 242 and material . For example , absorbent material 260 may be or RFID tag 244 is affected by a variety of factors . For 60 include cellulose foam , paper or synthetic foam . In addition , example , signal communication between RFID reader 242 an electrolyte may be disposed within absorbent material and RFID tag 244 can be limited or terminated if a gap 260 . Thus , absorbent material 260 may be doped with the between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 is increased electrolyte . Any suitable electrolyte may be disposed within RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 can also be tuned such absorbent material 260 . For example , a water soluble elec that signal communication between RFID reader 242 and 65 trolyte , such as sodium bicarbonate , sodium chloride or RFID tag 244 is established with a particular transmission potassium sulfate , may be disposed within absorbent mate medium , such as air , disposed between RFID reader 242 and rial 260 . It will be understood that absorbent material 260
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need not be a single , continuous piece of material . Thus , e . g . , adhesive , such as a pressure sensitive adhesive , disposed on absorbent material 260 may be constructed of or with a the plastic film . Thus , impermeable material 270 may act as plurality of absorbent pieces positioned adjacent each other . a sticker or tape to assist with mounting absorbent material As discussed above , RFID tag 244 may be inoperable or 260 and RFID tag 244 to a surface . In such a manner , system
signal communication between RFID tag 244 and RFID 5 240 may be easily mountable at or adjacent a liquid collec reader 242 may be diminished , e . g . , if liquid is disposed tion location . within absorbent material 260 at second end portion 264 of As discussed in greater detail below , system 240 also absorbent material 260 . For example , liquid within absor - includes features for assisting with fixedly connecting com bent material 260 at second end portion 264 of absorbent ponents of system 240 to one or more of casing 235 , material 260 may short out the antenna of RFID tag 244 . As 10 absorbent material 260 and a fiber fabric 270 . Thus , system another example , a resistance of absorbent material 260 can 240 may be reliably and / or permanently attached to filter decrease ( e . g . , due to the electrolyte therein dissolving ) cartridge 230 . In such a manner , performance of filter thereby putting a load on the antenna of RFID tag 244 . As cartridge 230 may be improved , and / or defacement of filter the resistance drops , the load can increase until the load cartridge 230 may be limited . As may be seen in FIGS . 8 drains sufficient power from RFID tag 244 such that RFID 15 through 15 , RFID tag 244 includes a substrate 250 , an tag 244 is disabled or deactivated and signal communication antenna 252 and an integrated circuit 254 . Antenna 252 , between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 is disrupted or integrated circuit 254 or both antenna 252 and integrated terminated . Further , when absorbent material 260 is wet , circuit 254 may be fixedly connected to one or more of e . g . , such that the electrolyte within absorbent material 260 casing 235 , absorbent material 260 and fiber fabric 270 . As is dissolved , the capacitance of the antenna of RFID tag 244 20 used herein , the term “ fixedly connected ” means perma may be a second capacitance value . The second capacitance nently or non - removably connected such that antenna 252 value can be selected such that the signal communication and / or integrated circuit 254 detach from substrate 250 and between RFID reader 242 and RFID tag 244 is disrupted or RFID tag 244 is rendered inoperable if system 240 is terminated due to the associated change in the resonant removed from filter cartridge . Thus , RFID tag 244 may be frequency of RFID tag 244 . 25 tamperproof or tamper resistant in order to limit undesirable
As may be seen in FIG . 4 , system 240 also includes an modification of filter cartridge 230 . impermeable material 270 . Impermeable material 270 may FIGS . 8 through 15 provide various section views of be positioned over RFID tag 244 and / or absorbent material system 240 with respective arrangements for fixedly con 260 . As an example , impermeable material 270 may be necting antenna 252 , integrated circuit 254 or both antenna mounted to filter cartridge 230 at outer surface 238 of filter 30 252 and integrated circuit 254 to one or more of casing 235 , cartridge 230 . Thus , impermeable material 270 may assist absorbent material 260 and fiber fabric 270 . It will be with mounting or securing RFID tag 244 and / or absorbent understood that the arrangements for fixedly connecting material 260 to filter cartridge 230 . components of system 240 to one or more of casing 235 ,
Impermeable material 270 defines a passage 272 there - absorbent material 260 and fiber fabric 270 shown in FIGS . through . Passage 272 permits liquid to flow through imper - 35 8 through 15 are provided by way of example only and that meable material 270 , e . g . , to absorbent material 260 dis - other arrangements and combination of arrangements may posed below impermeable material 270 . As an example , be provided in alternative example embodiments . Each passage 272 of impermeable material 270 may be positioned example arrangement for fixedly connecting antenna 252 , at or adjacent the liquid collection location , and first end integrated circuit 254 or both antenna 252 and integrated portion 262 of absorbent material 260 may be positioned at 40 circuit 254 to one or more of casing 235 , absorbent material or adjacent passage 272 of impermeable material 270 . Thus , 260 and fiber fabric 270 is discussed in greater detail below . impermeable material 270 may be positioned between the FIG . 8 provides a section view of a first example arrange liquid collection location and absorbent material 260 , and ment 300 of system 240 . In FIG . 8 , integrated circuit 254 is passage 272 may permit liquid to flow through impermeable adhered to casing 235 , and adhesive 256 extends between material 270 to absorbent material 260 . In particular , absor - 45 integrated circuit 254 and casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , integrated bent material 260 may be configured or positioned for circuit 254 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain wicking liquid from passage 272 of impermeable material attached to casing 235 , if RFID is removed from filter 270 at first end portion 262 of absorbent material 260 to cartridge 230 . Integrated circuit 254 may be positioned second end portion 264 of absorbent material 260 and RFID opposite antenna 252 on substrate 250 . Absorbent material tag 244 . Thus , impermeable material 270 may assist with 50 260 may be positioned on and / or contact antenna 252 . Thus , hindering or preventing absorbent material 260 from col - liquid water in absorbent material 260 may deactivate lecting or absorbing liquid from locations other than the antenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail above . Imperme liquid collection location . In particular , passage 272 may be able material 270 may be positioned over or on absorbent the only location at which liquid can pass through imper - material 260 , e . g . , opposite absorbent material 260 . meable material 270 to absorbent material 260 . Thus , imper - 55 FIG . 9 provides a section view of a second example meable material 270 may seal or encase RFID tag 244 and arrangement 400 of system 240 . In FIG . 9 , antenna 252 is absorbent material 260 on casing 235 of filter cartridge 230 adhered to casing 235 , and adhesive 256 extends between such that RFID tag 244 only deactivates in response to liquid antenna 252 and casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , antenna 252 may passing through impermeable material 270 to absorbent detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain attached to material 260 . 60 casing 235 , if RFID is removed from filter cartridge 230 .
Impermeable material 270 may be constructed of or with Antenna 252 may be positioned opposite integrated circuit any suitable impermeable material 270 . For example , imper - 254 on substrate 250 . Absorbent material 260 may be meable material 270 may be constructed of or with a positioned on and / or contact antenna 252 . Thus , liquid water material that is impermeable to the liquid being detected by in absorbent material 260 may deactivate antenna 252 , as system 240 . In certain example embodiments , impermeable 65 discussed in greater detail above . Absorbent material 260 material 270 may be a , e . g . , flexible , plastic film or layer . In may also be positioned on or contact casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , addition , impermeable material 270 may further include an adhesive 256 may contact a portion of antenna 252 , and
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absorbent material 260 may cover the remainder of antenna if RFID is removed from filter cartridge 230 . Antenna 252 252 . Impermeable material 270 may be positioned over or may be positioned opposite integrated circuit 254 on sub on integrated circuit 254 , e . g . , opposite absorbent material strate 250 . Antenna 252 is also adhered to casing 235 , and 260 . adhesive 256 extends between antenna 252 and casing 235 .
FIG . 10 provides a section view of a third example 5 Thus , e . g . , antenna 252 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , arrangement 500 of system 240 . In FIG . 10 , antenna 252 is and remain attached to casing 235 , if RFID is removed from adhered to a mesh or fiber fabric 280 , and adhesive 256 filter cartridge 230 . Absorbent material 260 may be posi extends between antenna 252 and fiber fabric 280 . In addi t ioned on and / or contact antenna 252 . Fiber fabric 280 may tion , adhesive 256 extends between fiber fabric 280 and be liquid permeable such that liquid water may pass through casing 235 such that fiber fabric 280 is adhered to casing 10 fiber fabric 280 to absorbent material 260 and antenna 252 . 235 . Thus , e . g . , antenna 252 may detach from substrate 250 , Thus , liquid water in absorbent material 260 may deactivate e . g . , and remain attached to fiber fabric 280 , if RFID is antenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail above . Imperme removed from filter cartridge 230 . Integrated circuit 254 able material 270 may be positioned over or on fiber fabric may be positioned opposite antenna 252 on substrate 250 . 280 . Absorbent material 260 may be positioned on and / or contact 15 FIG . 14 provides a section view of a seventh example fiber fabric 280 . Fiber fabric 280 may be liquid permeable arrangement 900 of system 240 . In FIG . 14 , antenna 252 is such that liquid water may pass through fiber fabric 280 adhered to fiber fabric 280 , and adhesive 256 extends from absorbent material 260 to antenna 252 . Thus , liquid between antenna 252 and fiber fabric 280 . In addition , water in absorbent material 260 may deactivate antenna 252 , adhesive 256 extends between fiber fabric 280 and casing as discussed in greater detail above . Impermeable material 20 235 such that fiber fabric 280 is adhered to casing 235 . Thus , 270 may be positioned over or on absorbent material 260 , e . g . , antenna 252 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , and e . g . , opposite fiber fabric 280 . remain attached to fiber fabric 280 , if RFID is removed from
FIG . 11 provides a section view of a fourth example filter cartridge 230 . Integrated circuit 254 may be positioned arrangement 600 of system 240 . In FIG . 11 , absorbent opposite antenna 252 on substrate 250 . Integrated circuit material 260 is a fiber reinforced absorbent material . Thus , 25 254 is also adhered to casing 235 , and adhesive 256 extends e . g . , absorbent material 260 may include an encased mesh or between integrated circuit 254 and casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , reinforcing fibers that limit ripping of absorbent material integrated circuit 254 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , 260 . Antenna 252 is adhered to absorbent material 260 , and and remain attached to casing 235 , if RFID is removed from adhesive 256 extends between antenna 252 and absorbent filter cartridge 230 . Absorbent material 260 may be posi material 260 . In addition , adhesive 256 extends between 30 tioned on and / or contact fiber fabric 280 . Fiber fabric 280 absorbent material 260 and casing 235 such that absorbent may be liquid permeable such that liquid water may pass material 260 is adhered to casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , antenna through fiber fabric 280 from absorbent material 260 to 252 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain antenna 252 . Thus , liquid water in absorbent material 260 attached to absorbent material 260 , if RFID is removed from may deactivate antenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail filter cartridge 230 . Integrated circuit 254 may be positioned 35 above . Impermeable material 270 may be positioned over or opposite antenna 252 on substrate 250 . Absorbent material on absorbent material 260 , e . g . , opposite fiber fabric 280 . 260 may be positioned on and contact at least a portion of FIG . 15 provides a section view of an eight example antenna 252 , and liquid water in absorbent material 260 may arrangement 1000 of system 240 . In FIG . 15 , absorbent deactivate antenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail above . material 260 is a fiber reinforced absorbent material . Thus , Impermeable material 270 may be positioned over or on 40 e . g . , absorbent material 260 may include an encased mesh or absorbent material 260 . reinforcing fibers that limit ripping of absorbent material
FIG . 12 provides a section view of a fifth example 260 . Antenna 252 is adhered to absorbent material 260 , and arrangement 700 of system 240 . In FIG . 12 , integrated adhesive 256 extends between antenna 252 and absorbent circuit 254 is adhered to fiber fabric 280 , and adhesive 256 material 260 . In addition , adhesive 256 extends between extends between integrated circuit 254 and fiber fabric 280 . 45 absorbent material 260 and casing 235 such that absorbent In addition , adhesive 256 extends between fiber fabric 280 material 260 is adhered to casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , antenna and casing 235 such that fiber fabric 280 is adhered to casing 252 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain 235 . Thus , e . g . , integrated circuit 254 may detach from attached to absorbent material 260 , if RFID is removed from substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain attached to fiber fabric 280 , filter cartridge 230 . Integrated circuit 254 may be positioned if RFID is removed from filter cartridge 230 . Antenna 252 50 opposite antenna 252 on substrate 250 . Integrated circuit may be positioned opposite integrated circuit 254 on sub - 254 is also adhered to casing 235 , and adhesive 256 extends strate 250 . Absorbent material 260 may be positioned on between integrated circuit 254 and casing 235 . Thus , e . g . , and / or contact antenna 252 . Fiber fabric 280 may be liquid integrated circuit 254 may detach from substrate 250 , e . g . , permeable such that liquid water may pass through fiber and remain attached to casing 235 , if RFID is removed from fabric 280 to absorbent material 260 and antenna 252 . Thus , 55 filter cartridge 230 . Absorbent material 260 may be posi liquid water in absorbent material 260 may deactivate tioned on and contact at least a portion of antenna 252 , and antenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail above . Imperme - liquid water in absorbent material 260 may deactivate able material 270 may be positioned over or on fiber fabric a ntenna 252 , as discussed in greater detail above . Imperme 280 . able material 270 may be positioned over or on absorbent
FIG . 13 provides a section view of a sixth example 60 material 260 , e . g . , opposite fiber fabric 280 . arrangement 800 of system 240 . In FIG . 13 , integrated This written description uses examples to disclose the circuit 254 is adhered to fiber fabric 280 , and adhesive 256 invention , including the best mode , and also to enable any extends between integrated circuit 254 and fiber fabric 280 . person skilled in the art to practice the invention , including In addition , adhesive 256 extends between fiber fabric 280 making and using any devices or systems and performing and casing 235 such that fiber fabric 280 is adhered to casing 65 any incorporated methods . The patentable scope of the 235 . Thus , e . g . , integrated circuit 254 may detach from invention is defined by the claims , and may include other substrate 250 , e . g . , and remain attached to fiber fabric 280 , examples that occur to those skilled in the art . Such other
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US 10 , 040 , 009 B1 13 14
examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims cation of the radio frequency identification tag is dis if they include structural elements that do not differ from the rupted when liquid water is disposed within the water literal language of the claims , or if they include equivalent absorbent material ; and structural elements with insubstantial differences from the a water impermeable material positioned over the water literal languages of the claims . absorbent material and the radio frequency identifica
tion tag on the outer surface of the casing , What is claimed is : wherein the antenna , the integrated circuit or both the 1 . A filter cartridge , comprising : antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected
to one or more of the easing and the water absorbent a casing ; material . a filter medium positioned within the casing ; 12 . The filter cartridge of claim 11 , wherein the antenna , a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated surface of the casing , the radio frequency identification circuit are adhered to the easing . tag comprising an antenna and an integrated circuit ; 13 . The filter cartridge of claim 11 , wherein the antenna ,
a water absorbent material positioned proximate the radio 15 the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated frequency identification tag such that signal communi - circuit are adhered to the water absorbent material , the water cation of the radio frequency identification tag is dis - absorbent material being a fiber reinforced water absorbent rupted when liquid water is disposed within the water material , the fiber reinforced water absorbent material absorbent material ; and adhered to the easing
a water impermeable material positioned over the water 20 14 . The filter cartridge of claim 11 , wherein the water absorbent material and the radio frequency identifica - impermeable material is a plastic film and the water absor tion tag on the outer surface of the casing , bent material is an electrolyte doped paper .
wherein the antenna , the integrated circuit or both the 15 . A filter cartridge , comprising : antenna and the integrated circuit are adhered to one or a casing ; more of the casing , the water absorbent material and a 25 a filter medium positioned within the casing ; fiber fabric positioned over the radio frequency iden - a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer tification tag on the outer surface of the casing . surface of the casing , the radio frequency identification
2 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the antenna is tag comprising an antenna and an integrated circuit ; adhered to the casing such that adhesive extends between the a fiber reinforced water absorbent material positioned antenna and the casing . proximate the radio frequency identification tag such
3 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the integrated that signal communication of the radio frequency iden circuit is adhered to the casing such that adhesive extends tification tag is disrupted when liquid water is disposed between the integrated circuit and the casing . within the fiber reinforced water absorbent material ;
4 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the antenna is and adhered to the water absorbent material such that adhesive 35 a water impermeable material positioned over the fiber extends between the antenna and the water absorbent mate reinforced water absorbent material and the radio fre rial , the water absorbent material being a fiber reinforced quency identification tag on the outer surface of the water absorbent material , the fiber reinforced water absor casing , bent material adhered to the casing . wherein the antenna , the integrated circuit or both the
5 . The filter cartridge of claim 4 , wherein the integrated 40 antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected circuit is adhered to the casing such that adhesive extends to the fiber reinforced water absorbent material . between the integrated circuit and the casing . 16 . The filter cartridge of claim 15 , wherein the antenna ,
6 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the antenna is the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated adhered to the fiber fabric such that adhesive extends circuit are adhered or over - molded to the fiber reinforced between the antenna and the fiber fabric , the fiber fabric 45 water absorbent material . adhered to the casing . 17 . The filter cartridge of claim 15 , wherein the water
7 . The filter cartridge of claim 6 , wherein the integrated impermeable material is a plastic film and the water absor circuit is adhered to the casing such that adhesive extends bent material is an electrolyte doped fiber reinforced paper . between the integrated circuit and the casing . 18 . A filter cartridge , comprising :
8 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the integrated 50 a casing ; circuit is adhered to the fiber fabric such that adhesive a filter medium positioned within the casing ; extends between the integrated circuit and the fiber fabric , a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer the fiber fabric adhered to the casing . surface of the casing , the radio frequency identification
9 . The filter cartridge of claim 8 , wherein the antenna is tag comprising an antenna and an integrated circuit ; adhered to the casing such that adhesive extends between the 55 a water absorbent material positioned proximate the radio antenna and the casing . frequency identification tag such that signal communi
10 . The filter cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the water cation of the radio frequency identification tag is dis impermeable material is a plastic film and the water absor rupted when liquid water is disposed within the water bent material is an electrolyte doped paper . absorbent material ;
11 . A filter cartridge , comprising : 60 a fiber fabric positioned over the radio frequency identi a casing ; fication tag on the outer surface of the casing ; and a filter medium positioned within the casing ; a water impermeable material positioned over the water a radio frequency identification tag positioned at an outer absorbent material and the radio frequency identifica
surface of the casing , the radio frequency identification tion tag on the outer surface of the casing , tag comprising an antenna and an integrated circuit ; 65 wherein the antenna , the integrated circuit or both the
a water absorbent material positioned proximate the radio antenna and the integrated circuit are fixedly connected frequency identification tag such that signal communi to the fiber fabric .
US 10 , 040 , 009 B1 15
19 . The filter cartridge of claim 18 , wherein the antenna , the integrated circuit or both the antenna and the integrated circuit are adhered to the fiber fabric .
20 . The filter cartridge of claim 18 , wherein the water impermeable material is a plastic film and the water absor - 5 bent material is an electrolyte doped paper .
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