Dual-flow filter cartridge

#1. Field of the Invention

#The subject invention relates to a filter cartridge for use in fluid filtration, and more particularly, to a filter cartridge configured to provide two or more levels of fluid filtration.

#2. Background of the Related Art

#So that those having ordinary skill in the art to which the subject invention appertains will more readily understand how to make and use the same, reference may be had to the drawings wherein:

#FIG. 1 is perspective view of a filter apparatus constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the subject invention shown in conjunction with a faucet for tap water and a fountain for drinking water;

#FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge of FIG. 1 which includes a housing defining an interior cavity, a first stage filter, a second stage filter and a structure directing the flow of fluid through first and second flow paths;

#These and other features of the subject invention will become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art form the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments.

#As discussed hereinabove, the present invention overcomes several of the disadvantages associated with prior art fluid filtration cartridges and assemblies. The advantages, and other features of the filtration cartridge disclosed herein, will become more readily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings which set forth representative embodiments of the present invention.

#Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar structural elements of the subject invention, there is illustrated in FIG. 1 a filtration cartridge constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the subject invention and designated generally by reference numeral 100. Filter cartridge 100 is illustrated in conjunction with a residential plumbing fixture that includes faucet assembly 20 and drinking fountain assembly 30. In this configuration, filter cartridge 100 is fluidly connected to an unfiltered cold water supply by conduit 10 through filter head 12. The cold water provided by supply conduit 10 is passed through filter cartridge 100 and is selectively discharged through a first discharge conduit 14, a second discharge conduit 16, or simultaneously through both.