Patent Application
20250001330
The present invention relates to techniques (apparatuses, methods) used for cleaning water in a mikvah (Jewish ritual purification bath), which comply with stringent requirements set forth by Jewish religious law (halacha) regarding mikvahs, and more particularly, to an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious law (halacha), and applications thereof.
A mikvah (mikveh, mikve) is a bath of first-hand (naturally occurring or derived) water used for the purpose of ritual immersion (of persons, or kitchenware) in Judaism to achieve ritual and spiritual purity. An important practical aspect of a mikvah is the need to maintain an appropriately high level of cleanliness of the water in a mikvah (herein, the phrase “water in a mikvah”, for brevity, is referred to as “mikvah water”), whose typical volume is in the range of 1,000-15,000 liters (1-15 cubic meters). Such need is particularly relevant for a mikvah that is highly active and often used, especially for immersions of many people, on a daily or weekly basis. Whether it be for immersion of persons, or kitchenware, it is highly desirable that the mikvah water be very clean, and contain minimal amounts of numerous possible kinds of (physical, chemical, or/and biological) contaminants, impurities, and foreign materials.
There are well established requirements (rules, regulations), along with differing interpretations and guidelines for implementing thereof, regarding how mikvah water may be cleaned by using a water cleaning apparatus, in a manner that complies with Jewish religious and legal laws (halacha). Three most basic and widely accepted requirements are as follows. First, during its operation, any and all components or parts of the water cleaning apparatus that is/are in contact with the mikvah water is/are absent of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water. Second, during its operation, the water cleaning apparatus must not remove any amount of mikvah water from the mikvah. Third, during operation of the water cleaning apparatus, the mikvah water passing (flowing) therethrough must be in continuous contact (fluid communication) with mikvah water located immediately adjacent to and outside of the water cleaning apparatus. The term ‘continuous contact (fluid communication)’, as used herein, means that mikvah water flowing along an entire (full) path (passageway) through (from input into, and output from) the water cleaning apparatus, is absent of any physical separation (or barrier), having width, length, or height, less than 45 mm (4.5 cm).
Commercially available water cleaning apparatuses, used for cleaning water of, or in, numerous different types and kinds of water-containing structures and processes, and which are not specifically designed and constructed for cleaning mikvah water, do not comply with at least one, typically, all three, of the above listed religious legal requirements, and thus, cannot be used for cleaning water in a mikvah according to Jewish halacha.
An example of a commercially available mikvah water cleaning apparatus, that complies with Jewish halacha regarding mikvahs, is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2003/0024862 A1 (Gal, Y.), and teaches the following. “A filtering system for cleaning a pool. The system including a casing for immersing in the pool, and at least one filtering unit located within the casing. The floor of the pool or an appendage thereto define at least one chamber together with the casing.”. Additionally described therein is “ . . . a filtering system immersed in a Mikve, which has a tube connecting the interior of the filtering system to a floor of the Mikve. The connecting tube optionally has a diameter of at least 4.5 centimeters, disqualifying the filtering system from being a container.”.
To date there have been numerous other attempts, each with particular advantages and disadvantages, of providing mikvah water cleaning apparatuses that comply with Jewish halacha. Despite such attempts, there is an on-going need for developing and implementing new and improved techniques (apparatuses, methods) applicable for cleaning water in a mikvah, which comply with stringent requirements set forth by Jewish religious laws (halacha) regarding mikvahs.
The present invention relates to techniques (apparatuses, methods) used for cleaning water in a mikvah (Jewish ritual purification bath), which comply with stringent requirements set forth by Jewish religious law (halacha) regarding mikvahs, and more particularly, to an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious law (halacha), and applications thereof. The mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus includes a specially designed water flow assembly that facilitates continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, and prevents formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water, inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. Also disclosed are an exemplary wall securing assembly, for reversibly, securely and stably connecting the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus to a wall of a mikvah, and exemplary filter medium removal and replacement devices, for facilitating efficient and user-friendly removal and replacement of the filter medium of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. The present invention is applicable for filtering and cleaning water in various sized mikvahs, and maintaining the mikvah water highly clean, in full compliance with Jewish religious law (halacha), and in a very efficient, user-friendly, and cost effective manner.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, the apparatus comprising: an outer tube, a tubular filter medium, an inner tube, and a forced water circulation assembly.
The outer tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between outer tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening and at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening.
The tubular filter medium longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between filter medium top and bottom ends, and is removably, collaterally positioned within and along the outer tube.
The middle tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between middle tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of middle tube openings, and the middle tube is collaterally positioned within and along, so as to support, the filter medium.
The inner tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between inner tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of inner tube openings. The inner tube is collaterally securely positioned within and along the middle tube, such that the plurality of inner tube openings are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of middle tube openings, so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the middle tube openings into and through the inner tube openings.
The forced water circulation assembly includes a propeller, a propeller shaft, and a propeller shaft motor assembly, and is operatively connected to the outer, middle, and inner tubes, whereby the forced water circulation assembly facilitates forced continuous and directional flow, and, filtering and cleaning, of the mikvah water from the mikvah into and through the at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening, the filter medium, the middle and inner tube openings, and the at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the outer tube is configured with at least one alignment indentation, that facilitates spatial top to bottom longitudinal or/and horizontal latitudinal alignment of structural features of apparatus components. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the structural features of apparatus components comprise the plurality of middle tube openings that are spatially aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of inner tube openings. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, each one of the outer tube alignment indentation is located at any top to bottom longitudinal position along the outer tube, and has any one of numerous different geometrical shapes. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, each one of the outer tube alignment indentation has a shape and size configured so as to facilitate secure fitting and holding of a complementary mated and matched alignment protrusion or projection configured in another apparatus component.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, inside the outer tube, the filter medium is securely wrapped around, and surrounds, the middle tube along entire top to bottom longitudinal length of the middle tube.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the filter medium top end and the middle tube top end are covered by a filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly is cylindrical in form, and includes an outer member and an inner member securely positioned and held within the outer member. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the outer and inner members are configured with screw threads that facilitate operative connection of the apparatus to a device for removing and replacing the filter medium. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the outer member is configured with a single screw thread that facilitates operative connection of the apparatus to a device for removing and replacing the filter medium.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly is configured with at least one alignment protrusion or projection, that facilitates spatial top to bottom longitudinal or/and horizontal latitudinal alignment of structural features of apparatus components. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the structural features of apparatus components comprise the plurality of middle tube openings spatially aligned and nearly coinciding with the plurality of inner tube openings. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, each one of the alignment protrusion or projection has a shape and size configured so as to facilitate secure fitting and holding of a complementary mated and matched alignment indentation configured in another apparatus component. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly is configured with at least one alignment protrusion or projection that has a shape and size configured so as to facilitate secure fitting and holding of a complementary mated and matched alignment indentation configured in a top end portion of the outer tube, to thereby facilitate spatial top to bottom longitudinal or/and horizontal latitudinal alignment of structural features of apparatus components. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the structural features of apparatus components comprise the plurality of middle tube openings that are spatially aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of inner tube openings.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the middle tube includes a bottom end portion configured with bottommost openings, whose bottom peripheries are open in a form of spaces or gaps that are parallel to, and coincide with, the middle tube bottom end, whereby the spaces or gaps facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water which passes through and exits the filter medium and then enters and passes through the middle tube bottom end portion.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the apparatus further comprises a tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member, configured for holding the filter medium bottom end, the middle tube bottom end, and the inner tube bottom end, and configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that passes through and exits the filter medium and enters, passes through, and exits the middle tube openings and the inner tube openings.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member is configured with a cylindrical encircling solid portion that encircles a cylindrical central hollow portion. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the cylindrical encircling solid portion has an overall diameter, an outer radius, an inner radius, and a top to bottom longitudinal length or height that varies between the outer radius and the inner radius. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the cylindrical encircling solid portion includes a solid portion top surface configured with a top surface gradient or inclination that latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface, and further includes a solid portion bottom surface, a solid portion inner side surface, and a solid portion outer side surface.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the top surface gradient or inclination latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface between an outer radius and an inner radius of the encircling solid portion. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the top surface gradient or inclination has a gradient or inclination angle, defined as an angle formed between a first straight line originating from a point on a circumferential periphery of the cylindrical central hollow portion and parallel to the solid portion bottom surface, and a second straight line originating from the originating point of the first straight line and collinear with the top surface gradient. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the gradient or inclination angle is in a range of between one degree and eighty-nine degrees.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the solid portion inner side surface has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection that horizontally, circularly extends from, and along, a circumferential periphery of the bottom end portion, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the filter medium bottom end and the middle tube bottom end are positioned on, and supported by, the top surface gradient or inclination, and the inner tube bottom end is positioned along, and supported by, the solid portion inner side surface. According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the inner tube bottom end is positioned on, and supported by, a top width of the cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection of the solid portion inner side surface.
According to some embodiments of the apparatus, the propeller shaft motor assembly is housed inside a motor housing assembly that is connected to the inner tube top end.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a water flow assembly, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, the water flow assembly comprising: a first tube, a second tube, and a cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member.
The first tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between first tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of first tube openings. The first tube has a first tube bottom end portion configured with first tube bottommost openings whose bottom peripheries are open in a form of spaces or gaps that are parallel to, and coincide with, the first tube bottom end, whereby the spaces or gaps facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water which enters and passes through the first tube bottom end portion;
The second tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between second tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of second tube openings. The second tube has a second tube bottom end portion configured with second tube bottommost openings, and the second tube is collaterally securely positioned within and along the first tube, such that the plurality of second tube openings are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of first tube openings, so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the first tube openings into and through the second tube openings;
The cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member is configured for holding the first tube bottom end and the second tube bottom end, and is configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits the first tube openings and the second tube openings.
According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member is configured with a cylindrical encircling solid portion that encircles a cylindrical central hollow portion. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the cylindrical encircling solid portion has an overall diameter, an outer radius, an inner radius, and a top to bottom longitudinal length or height that varies between the outer radius and the inner radius. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the cylindrical encircling solid portion includes a solid portion top surface configured with a top surface gradient or inclination that latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface, and further includes a solid portion bottom surface, a solid portion inner side surface, and a solid portion outer side surface.
According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the top surface gradient or inclination latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface between an outer radius and an inner radius of the encircling solid portion. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the top surface gradient or inclination has a gradient or inclination angle, defined as an angle formed between a first straight line originating from a point on a circumferential periphery of the cylindrical central hollow portion and parallel to the solid portion bottom surface, and a second straight line originating from the originating point of the first straight line and collinear with the top surface gradient. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the gradient or inclination angle is in a range of between one degree and eighty-nine degrees.
According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the solid portion inner side surface has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection that horizontally, circularly extends from, and along, a circumferential periphery of the bottom end portion, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the first tube bottom end is positioned on, and supported by, the top surface gradient or inclination, and the second tube bottom end is positioned along, and supported by, the solid portion inner side surface. According to some embodiments of the water flow assembly, the second tube bottom end is positioned on, and supported by, a top width of the cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection of the solid portion inner side surface.
According to an aspect of some embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a device for holding bottom ends of tubes, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, the device comprising: a cylindrical encircling solid portion that encircles a cylindrical central hollow portion, the encircling solid portion is configured for holding a bottom end of a first tube and a bottom end of a second tube, and the central hollow portion is configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed passage therethrough of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits, the first and second tubes.
According to some embodiments of the device, the cylindrical encircling solid portion has an overall diameter, an outer radius, an inner radius, and a top to bottom longitudinal length or height that varies between the outer radius and the inner radius.
According to some embodiments of the device, the cylindrical encircling solid portion includes a solid portion top surface configured with a top surface gradient or inclination that latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface, and further includes a solid portion bottom surface, a solid portion inner side surface, and a solid portion outer side surface.
According to some embodiments of the device, the top surface gradient or inclination latitudinally spans and descends upon and along the solid portion top surface between an outer radius and an inner radius of the encircling solid portion. According to some embodiments of the device, the top surface gradient or inclination has a gradient or inclination angle, defined as an angle formed between a first straight line originating from a point on a circumferential periphery of the cylindrical central hollow portion and parallel to the solid portion bottom surface, and a second straight line originating from the originating point of the first straight line and collinear with the top surface gradient. According to some embodiments of the device, the gradient or inclination angle is in a range of between one degree and eighty-nine degrees.
According to some embodiments of the device, the solid portion inner side surface has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection that horizontally, circularly extends from, and along, a circumferential periphery of the bottom end portion, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion.
According to some embodiments of the device, the top surface gradient or inclination is configured for positioning and supporting thereupon the first tube bottom end.
According to some embodiments of the device, the cylindrical ledge or horizontal projection of the solid portion inner side surface has a top width configured for positioning and supporting thereupon the second tube bottom end.
All technical or/and scientific words, terms, or/and phrases, used herein have the same or similar meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains, unless otherwise specifically defined or stated herein. Exemplary embodiments of apparatuses (devices, systems, components thereof), equipment, materials, and methods (steps, procedures), illustratively described herein are exemplary and illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting. Although apparatuses, equipment, materials, and methods, equivalent or similar to those described herein can be used in practicing or/and testing embodiments of the invention, exemplary apparatuses, equipment, materials, and methods, are illustratively described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control.
Some embodiments of the present invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings and photographs. With specific reference now to the drawings and photographs in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative description of some embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, the description taken together with the accompanying drawings and photographs make apparent to those skilled in the art how some embodiments of the present invention may be practiced.
In the drawings and photographs:
The present invention relates to an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (Jewish ritual purification bath), which complies with stringent requirements set forth by Jewish religious law (halacha) regarding mikvahs, and applications thereof. The mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus includes a specially designed water flow assembly that facilitates continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, and prevents formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water, inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. Also disclosed are an exemplary wall securing assembly, for reversibly, securely and stably connecting the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus to a mikvah wall, and exemplary filter medium removal and replacement devices, for facilitating efficient and user-friendly removal and replacement of the filter medium of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. The present invention is applicable for filtering and cleaning water in various sized mikvahs, and maintaining the mikvah water highly clean, in full compliance with Jewish religious law (halacha), and in a very efficient, user-friendly, and cost effective manner.
Implementation of the present invention attempts to address, and overcome, at least some of the on-going limitations and problems associated with cleaning water in a mikvah.
The present invention, in exemplary embodiments thereof, includes (at least) the following aspects. An apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. A water flow assembly, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. A device for holding bottom ends of tubes, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. A tubular device for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. A wall securing assembly, for reversibly, securely and stably connecting the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus to a mikvah wall. A filter medium removal and replacement device, for removing and replacing the filter medium of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. A method for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws.
In exemplary embodiments, combinations of selected individual components or members (for example, in the form of an assembly), and selected individual components or members, of the apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, may be considered as individual ‘stand-alone’ apparatuses or devices, particularly, based on their structural and functional (operational) characteristics and features. Such individual ‘stand-alone’ apparatuses or devices correspond to various ‘sub-combinations’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah.
For example, in exemplary embodiments, the combination of the middle tube (also referred to as a first tube), the inner tube (also referred to as a second tube), and the middle and inner tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member (also referred to as a cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member), corresponds to a ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ device, herein, referred to as a ‘water flow assembly’. In such exemplary embodiments, the water flow assembly, being considered as a ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or device, is suitable for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (such as the herein disclosed apparatus for filtering and cleaning water of a mikvah).
Additionally, for example, in exemplary embodiments, the individual component being the middle and inner tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member (also referred to as a cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member), corresponds to another ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may also be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or device, herein referred to as a ‘device for holding bottom ends of tubes’. In such exemplary embodiments, the device for holding bottom ends of tubes, being considered as a ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or device, is also suitable for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (such as the herein disclosed apparatus for filtering and cleaning water of a mikvah).
Additionally, for example, in exemplary embodiments, the individual component being the middle tube (also referred to as a first tube), corresponds to another ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may also be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or device, herein referred to as a ‘tubular device’. In such exemplary embodiments, the tubular device, being considered as a ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or device, is also suitable for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (such as the herein disclosed apparatus for filtering and cleaning water of a mikvah).
Additionally, for example, in exemplary embodiments, the two types of devices for removal and replacement of a filter medium, although not components of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, may also be considered as individual ‘stand-alone’ apparatus or devices. In such exemplary embodiments, the devices for removal and replacement of a filter medium, being considered as ‘stand-alone’ apparatuses or devices, are also suitable for use with an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (such as the herein disclosed apparatus for filtering and cleaning water of a mikvah).
The term “mikvah” (commonly also spelled mikveh, or mikve), as used herein, refers to the actual specific religious bath, or bath-like, structure that contains (holds), or is capable of containing (holding), (naturally occurring or derived) water used for the purpose of ritual immersion (of persons, or kitchenware) in Judaism, in order to achieve ritual and spiritual purity of that which is immersed. Accordingly, a mikvah may be the actual specific bath, or bath-like, structure which is partially or entirely filled with, and containing (holding), water, or, alternatively, may be the actual specific bath, or bath-like, structure which is empty, yet is capable of containing (holding) water. Per such terminology, the mikvah (bath or bath-like) structure is ordinarily housed in a larger, more encompassing structure in the form of a building, an abode, or a room. Such larger, more encompassing structure (building, abode, room), in a more general sense, is commonly also referred to as a ‘mikvah’, without specifically distinguishing between it and the herein reference made to the (smaller) actual specific religious bath or bath-like structure that is housed in the larger structure.
The phrase “water in a mikvah”, and “water in the mikvah”, as used herein, refer to water that is contained (held) in a (the) mikvah (i.e., the bath or bath-like structure). Herein, for brevity, these phrases are also referred to by, and synonymous with, the phrase “mikvah water”.
The phrases “apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah”, and “method for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah”, herein, are also referred to by, and synonymous with, the phrases “mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus”, and “mikvah water filtering and cleaning method”, respectively.
For purposes of further understanding exemplary embodiments of the present invention, in the following illustrative description thereof, reference is made to the figures. Throughout the following description and accompanying drawings, same reference numbers refer to same objects, components, elements, or features. It is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to particular details of construction or/and arrangement of exemplary device, apparatus, or/and system components, or to particular sequential ordering of exemplary method steps or procedures, set forth in the following illustrative description. The invention is capable of having other exemplary embodiments, or/and of being practiced or carried out in various alternative ways.
Throughout the description and accompanying drawings, physical orientational (location, position) and directional type terms “top”, and “bottom”, are used for indicating relative orientation (location, position) and direction of the stated or illustrated object, component, element, or structural feature of the herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. For example, the term “top”, as used herein, refers to the (vertically or longitudinally) ‘upper’, ‘upward’, or ‘upwardly facing’ location, position, or direction of the stated or illustrated object/s, component/s, element/s, or structural feature/s of the herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. For example, the term “bottom”, as used herein, refers to the (vertically or longitudinally) ‘lower’, ‘downward’, or ‘downwardly facing’ location, position, or direction of the stated or illustrated object/s, component/s, element/s, or structural feature/s of the herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. With respect to the (physical) sides of a printed page, or of a computer display screen, located opposite a viewer thereof, the terms “top” and “bottom”, as used herein, in a non-limiting manner, correspond to the (vertically or longitudinally) top and bottom sides or side portions, respectively, of the printed page, or of the computer display screen.
Additionally, for application and operation of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus, the intended physical orientational positioning of the apparatus in a mikvah is as shown in the figures, namely, longitudinally vertical, spanning from the topmost part or portion of the apparatus to the bottommost part or portion of the apparatus.
The herein disclosed invention, and aspects thereof (i.e., the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus, the water flow assembly, the device for holding bottom ends of tubes, the tubular device, the filter medium removal and replacement device, and the mikvah water filtering and cleaning method), include, or, alternatively, consist essentially of, or, alternatively, consist of, the following illustratively described structural and functional (operational) features thereof.
The apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: an outer tube, a tubular filter medium, a middle tube, an inner tube, and a forced water circulation assembly.
In such exemplary embodiments, the outer tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between outer tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening and at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening.
The tubular filter medium longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between filter medium top and bottom ends, and is removably, collaterally positioned within the outer tube.
The middle tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between middle tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of middle tube openings. The middle tube is (longitudinally) collaterally positioned within and along, so as to support, the filter medium.
The inner tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between inner tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of inner tube openings. The inner tube is collaterally securely positioned within and along the middle tube, such that the inner tube openings are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the middle tube openings, so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the middle tube openings into and through the inner tube openings.
The forced water circulation assembly includes a propeller, a propeller shaft, and a propeller shaft motor assembly, and is operatively connected to the outer, middle, and inner tubes. The forced water circulation assembly facilitates forced continuous and directional flow, and, filtering and cleaning, of the mikvah water from the mikvah into and through at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening, into and through the filter medium, into and through middle and inner tube openings, and, into and through at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening.
The water flow assembly, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: a first tube, a second tube, and a cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member.
In such exemplary embodiments, the first tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between first tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of first tube openings. The first tube has a first tube bottom end portion configured with first tube bottommost openings whose bottom peripheries are open in a form of spaces or gaps that are parallel to, and coincide with, the first tube bottom end, whereby the spaces or gaps facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water which enters and passes through the first tube bottom end portion.
The second tube longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between second tube top and bottom ends, and is configured with a plurality of second tube openings. The second tube has a second tube bottom end portion configured with second tube bottommost openings, and the second tube is collaterally (longitudinally) securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) positioned within and along the first tube, such that the plurality of second tube openings are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of first tube openings, so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the first tube openings into and through the second tube openings.
The cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member is configured for holding the first tube bottom end and the second tube bottom end, and is configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits the first tube openings and the second tube openings.
The device for holding bottom ends of tubes, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: a cylindrical encircling solid portion that encircles a cylindrical central hollow portion. The encircling solid portion is configured for holding a first tube bottom end and a second tube bottom end, and the central hollow portion facilitates passage therethrough of filtered and cleaned mikvah water.
The method for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws, in a non-limiting manner, and in some embodiments, includes: (i) placing the herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus inside the mikvah, either before or after the mikvah is filled with water; and (ii) operatively connecting the motor of the forced water circulation assembly of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus to a power supply and controller unit; and (iii) for the mikvah filled with water, activating the motor, so as to facilitate forced continuous and directional flow, and, filtering and cleaning, of the mikvah water from the mikvah into, through, and out from, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus.
Referring now to the drawings,
In exemplary embodiments, the apparatus 100 for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah includes: an outer tube 102, a tubular filter medium 104, a middle tube 106, an inner tube 108, and a forced water circulation assembly 110. The filter medium 104, the middle tube 106, the inner tube 108, and the forced water circulation assembly 110, are present in the apparatus 100 shown in
Mikvah water (from the mikvah) enters the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 via the outer tube 102, for example, as shown in
The outer tube 102 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between the outer tube top end 102te and the outer tube bottom end 102be, and is configured with at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening (hole or slit) and with at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening (hole or slit). The outer tube 102 includes an outer tube top end portion 102tep (whose top end corresponds to the outer tube top end 102te), and an outer tube bottom end portion 102bep (whose bottom end corresponds to the outer tube bottom end 102be).
The outer tube 102 is configured with any number of outer tube mikvah water outlet openings (holes or/and slits). In exemplary embodiments, the outer tube mikvah water outlet openings are located in the outer tube bottom end portion 102bep. For example, as shown in at least
In exemplary embodiments, the outer tube bottom end portion 102bep is configured in a shape of one or more arches, ridges, or/and crests. In exemplary embodiments, the arches, ridges, or/and crests, have same shape size dimensions (width, height, length). Alternatively, in exemplary embodiments, the arches, ridges, or/and crests, have different shape size dimensions, or have a combination of same and different shape size dimensions, namely, one or more of the arches, ridges, or/and crests have shape size dimensions which are different from the shape size dimensions of one or more other arches, ridges, or/and crests that are configured in the outer tube bottom end portion 102bep. For example, as shown in at least
With reference again to
In exemplary embodiments, the outer tube 102 is configured with at least one alignment indentation (cut out portion or notch), that facilitates spatial (i.e., vertical [top to bottom longitudinal] or/and horizontal [sideways latitudinal]) alignment of structural features (for example, openings, holes) of selected components (particularly, of the middle tube 106 and the inner tube 108) of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100. In turn, such spatial alignment of structural features of selected components of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 facilitates continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water inside of, and through, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, for example, from middle tube openings (holes or/and slits) into and through inner tube openings (holes or/and slits) that are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the middle tube openings (holes or/and slits). Such spatial alignment, and continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, prevent formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and also contribute to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation of the apparatus 100.
The at least one outer tube alignment indentation is/are located at any one or more respective top to bottom longitudinal position(s) along the outer tube 102. In exemplary embodiments, each outer tube alignment indentation has any one of numerous different geometrical shapes, for example, (partly or fully, opened or closed) circular, elliptical, trigonal, square, rectangular, heptagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, etc. Each outer tube alignment indentation is configured (shaped and sized) so as to facilitate secure (firm, tight, snug) fitting and holding of a complementary (mated, matched) alignment protrusion (projection) configured in the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130, as further illustratively described below.
For example, as particularly shown in
Upon exiting the outer tube 102, mikvah water enters, passes through, is filtered and cleaned, exits the tubular filter medium 104, and enters into and through the spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coinciding openings (holes or/and slits) of the middle tube 106 and the inner tube 108, for example, as shown in
The tubular filter medium (herein, also referred to as the filter medium) 104 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between the filter medium top end 104te and the filter medium bottom end 104be, and is removably, collaterally positioned within and along the outer tube 102. The filter medium 104 includes a filter medium top end portion 104tep (whose top end corresponds to the filter medium top end 104te), and a filter medium bottom end portion 104bep (whose bottom end corresponds to the filter medium bottom end 104be). The filter medium 104 has an outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the outer tube 102, and has a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) that is essentially the same as that of the middle tube 106.
In exemplary embodiments, the filter medium 104 includes one or more top to bottom longitudinally extending seams, for example, a single seam 104s as shown in
The filter medium top end 104te and the middle tube top end 106te are covered by a filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130 (herein, also referred to as the top ends cover assembly 130), for example, as particularly viewable in
In exemplary embodiments, the outer and inner members 130om and 130im, respectively, of the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130 are configured with small screw threads (for example, small female screw threads 132 as shown in the figures). The (female) screw threads facilitate operative connection of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus to a filter medium removal and replacement device, via correspondingly mated small (male) screw threads thereof. For example, as shown in
Alternatively, or additionally (for example, as shown in the figures), in exemplary embodiments, the outer member 130om of the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130 is configured with a single large screw thread (for example, single large male screw thread 133 as shown in the figures). The (male) screw thread 133 facilitates operative connection of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 to a (second type of) filter medium removal and replacement device (for example, 350 shown in
In exemplary embodiments, the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130 is configured with at least one alignment protrusion (projection), that facilitates spatial (i.e., vertical [top to bottom longitudinal] or/and horizontal [sideways latitudinal]) alignment of structural features (for example, openings, holes) of selected components (particularly, of the middle tube 106 and the inner tube 108) of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100. In turn, such spatial alignment of structural features of selected components of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 facilitates continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water inside of, and through, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, for example, from middle tube openings (holes or/and slits) into and through inner tube openings (holes or/and slits) that are spatially adjacently aligned with and nearly coincide with the middle tube openings (holes or/and slits). Such spatial alignment, and continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, prevent formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and also contribute to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation of the apparatus 100.
In exemplary embodiments, each top ends cover assembly alignment protrusion (projection) has any of numerous different geometrical shapes, for example, (partly or fully) circular, elliptical, trigonal, square, rectangular, heptagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, etc. Each top ends cover assembly alignment protrusion (projection) is configured (shaped and sized) so as to facilitate secure (firm, tight, snug) fitting within, and holding by, a complementary (mated, matched) alignment indentation (cut out portion or notch) configured in the outer tube 102, as illustratively described hereinabove. For example, as particularly shown in
Upon exiting the filter medium 104, filtered and cleaned mikvah water enters, passes through, and exits the middle tube 106. More specifically, upon exiting the filter medium 104, filtered and cleaned mikvah water enters and passes through the openings (holes or/and slits) of the middle tube 106, and then immediately enters and passes through the openings (holes or/and slits) of the inner tube 108 (which are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the openings (holes or/and slits) of the middle tube 106), for example, as shown in
The middle tube 106 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between the middle tube top end 106te and the middle tube bottom end 106be, and is configured with a plurality of middle tube openings (holes or/and slits). The middle tube 106 is longitudinally collaterally entirely (fully) positioned within and along, and surrounding, the tubular filter medium 104, so as to support the tubular filter medium 104 along its entire top to bottom longitudinal length (height). The middle tube 106 includes a middle tube top end portion 106tep (whose top end corresponds to the middle tube top end 106te), and a middle tube bottom end portion 106bep (whose bottom end corresponds to the middle tube bottom end 106be). The middle tube 106 has an outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the filter medium 104, and has a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) that is essentially the same as that of the filter medium 104, as shown, for example, in
As viewable in
In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in
In exemplary embodiments, with reference to
Upon exiting the middle tube 106, the filtered and cleaned mikvah water enters, passes through, and exits the inner tube 108. More specifically, upon exiting the openings (holes or/and slits) of the middle tube 106, the filtered and cleaned mikvah water immediately enters and passes through the openings (holes or/and slits) of the inner tube 108 (which are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the openings (holes or/and slits) of the middle tube 106), for example, as shown in
The inner tube 108 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between the inner tube top end 108te and the inner tube bottom end 108be, and is configured with a plurality of inner tube openings (holes or/and slits). The inner tube 108 is collaterally securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) positioned within and along the middle tube 106, such that the plurality of inner tube openings are spatially adjacently alignable/aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of middle tube openings, so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the middle tube openings into and through the inner tube openings. Such spatial alignment, and continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, prevent formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and also contribute to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation of the apparatus 100.
The inner tube 108 includes an inner tube top end portion 108tep (whose top end corresponds to the inner tube top end 108te), and an inner tube bottom end portion 108bep (whose bottom end corresponds to the inner tube bottom end 108be). The inner tube 108 has an outer diameter that is less than the inner diameter of the middle tube 106, and has a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) that is larger than the top to bottom longitudinal length (height) of each of the middle tube 106 and of the filter medium 104.
As viewable in
As shown in
In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in
Upon exiting the inner tube 108, the filtered and cleaned mikvah water enters, passes through, and exits (the central hollow portion of) a middle and inner tubes bottom ends and filter medium bottom end holding member 150 (herein, also referred to as the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150) for example, as shown in
In exemplary embodiments of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150 is configured for the following. (1) Holding: (i) the filter medium bottom end 104be, (ii) the middle tube bottom end 106be (positioned inside of, and surrounded by, the filter medium bottom end 104be), and (iii) the inner tube bottom end 108be (positioned within the middle tube bottom end 106be). Alternatively stated, the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150 is configured for holding the bottom ends 104be, 106be, and 108be, of the filter medium 104, the middle tube 106, and the inner tube 108, respectively. (2) Facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water passing through and exiting the filter medium 104 that enters, passes through, and exits the middle tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm), the inner tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp of the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150 (for example, as indicated in
As shown in
The cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp has an overall diameter Dsp, an outer radius r1, an inner radius r2, and a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) Hsp. The top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp varies between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2, in accordance with the filter medium bottom ends holding member 150 solid portion top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ, and gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α thereof. For example, the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp decreases (as indicated by the downward directed dotted line arrow) from a maximum height transverse to the outer radius r1, to a minimum height transverse to the inner radius r2.
The cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp includes a solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, a solid portion bottom surface 150sp-bs [in
The cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp has a diameter Dchp, and a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hchp (dotted line two headed arrow) that corresponds to the smallest (inner radius r2) top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp of the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp.
The solid portion top surface 150sp-ts is configured with a top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ [indicated by the bracket with two extending arrows] that latitudinally spans and descends, upon and along the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2 of the encircling solid portion 150sp. The top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ has a gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α, defined as the angle formed between a first straight line L1 originating from a point on the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the central hollow portion 150chp and parallel to the (flat) solid portion bottom surface 150sp-bs, and a second straight line L2 originating from the same originating point of L1 and collinear (coincident) with the top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts. In exemplary embodiments, the gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α is in a broad range of between one degree (1°) and eighty-nine degrees (89°). In exemplary embodiments, the gradient angle α is in a particular range of between three degrees (3°) and twenty degrees (20°), corresponding to a range of a relatively small angle of the gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ that latitudinally spans and descends, upon and along the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, between the outer and inner radii, r1 and r2, respectively, of the encircling solid portion 150sp of the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150.
Such configuration of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, with solid portion top surface gradient γ, having gradient angle α, facilitates continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, and prevents formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water, inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and also contributes to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation of the apparatus 100.
The solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge (relatively small horizontal projection) λ, that (slightly) horizontally, circularly extends (projects) from, and along, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the bottom end portion of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp. The cylindrical ledge λ has a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) hμ, a width wλ, and a diameter dλ, wherein the diameter dλ is less than the diameter of the remaining part of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss (being the diameter Dchp of the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp).
In exemplary embodiments, in the middle tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150, the solid portion outer side surface 150sp-oss includes a plurality of small sized holes 121 (configured, for example, for screws or nails), that facilitate firm connection (attachment) of the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150 to the inside surface of the lower part of the outer tube 102. In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in
In accordance with above illustratively described middle and inner tubes bottom ends and filter medium bottom end holding member 150, the filter medium bottom end 104be, the middle tube bottom end 106be, and the inner tube bottom end 108be, are positioned and held thereupon, as follows.
The filter medium bottom end 104be is positioned on, and supported by, the top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts. In exemplary embodiments, the filter medium bottom end 104be is positioned and supported thereupon, whereby the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the inner wall or inner part of the filter medium bottom end 104be is immediately adjacent to, and surrounds, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the outer wall of the middle tube bottom end 106be. Alternatively stated, on the top surface gradient γ of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, the (circular) filter medium bottom end 104be is positioned so as to surround, and wrap around, the (circular) middle tube bottom end 106be, for example, as indicated in
The middle tube bottom end 106be is also positioned on, and supported by, the top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts. In exemplary embodiments, the middle tube bottom end 106be is positioned and supported thereupon, whereby the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the inner wall of the middle tube bottom end 106be coincides with, or nearly coincides with (i.e., is immediately adjacent to, and surrounds), the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp, for example, as indicated in
The inner tube bottom end 108be is not positioned on, or supported by, the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts. Rather, the inner tube bottom end 108be is positioned along, and supported by, the solid portion inner side surface 150-sp-iss. In exemplary embodiments, the inner tube bottom end 108be is positioned on, and supported by, the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss. In exemplary embodiments, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the outer wall of the inner tube bottom end 108be coincides with, or nearly coincides with, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ, such that the periphery of the inner tube bottom end 108be securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) and stably sits upon the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ.
According to such exemplary embodiments, the inner tube 108 is collaterally securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) positioned within and along the middle tube 106, such that the plurality of inner tube openings 140 (s1, s2, and bm) are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of middle tube openings 134 (s1, s2, and bm), so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the middle tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) into and through the inner tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and subsequently, into and through the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp of the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150.
The herein disclosed water flow assembly (WFA) corresponds to a ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ device. In exemplary embodiments, for example, with reference to
Thus, according to another aspect of the herein disclosed invention, there is provided a water flow assembly, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws (halacha). The water flow assembly 160 consists essentially of, or, alternatively, consists of, the components (with reference to
In exemplary embodiments of the water flow assembly 160, for example, as shown in
In exemplary embodiments of the water flow assembly 160, the second tube 108 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between second tube top and bottom ends 108te and 108be, respectively, and is configured with a plurality of second tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm). The second tube 108 has a second tube bottom end portion 108bep configured with second tube bottommost openings 140bm. The second tube 108 is collaterally securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) positioned within and along the first tube 106, such that the plurality of second tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm) are spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincide with the plurality of first tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm), so as to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the first tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) into and through the second tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and subsequently, into and through the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp of the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150.
In exemplary embodiments of the water flow assembly 160, the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150 is configured for the following. (1) Holding: (i) the first tube bottom end 106be, and (ii) the second tube bottom end 108be (positioned within the first tube bottom end 106be). In exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150 is configured for additionally being suitable for holding (iii) the bottom end of a filter medium, for example, the bottom end 104be of the filter medium 104. (2) Facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits the first tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm), the second tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp of the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150, for example, as indicated in
As shown in
The cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp includes a solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, a solid portion bottom surface 150sp-bs, a solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss, and a solid portion outer side surface 150sp-oss.
The cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp has an overall diameter Dsp, an outer radius r1, an inner radius r2, and a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) Hsp. The top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp varies between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2, in accordance with the cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150 solid portion top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ, and gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α thereof. For example, the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp decreases (as indicated by the downward directed dotted line arrow) from a maximum height transverse to the outer radius r1, to a minimum height transverse to the inner radius r2.
The solid portion top surface 150sp-ts is configured with a top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ that latitudinally spans and descends, upon and along the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2 of the encircling solid portion 150sp. The top surface gradient γ has a gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α, as defined hereinabove. In exemplary embodiments, the gradient angle α is in a broad range of between one degree (10) and eighty-nine (89°). In exemplary embodiments, the gradient angle α is in a particular range of between three degrees (30) and twenty degrees (20°).
The solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge (relatively small horizontal projection) λ, that (slightly) horizontally, circularly extends (projects) from, and along, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the bottom end portion of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp. The cylindrical ledge λ has a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) hλ, a width wk, and a diameter da, wherein the diameter d, is less than the diameter of the remaining part of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss (being the diameter Dchp of the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp).
In exemplary embodiments of the water flow assembly 160, the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp has a diameter Dchp, and a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hchp (dotted line two headed arrow) that corresponds to the smallest (inner radius r2) top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp of the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp. The central hollow portion 150chp is configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed passage therethrough of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits, the first tube 106 and the second tube 108.
In accordance with above illustratively described cylindrical tubes bottom ends holding member 150, the first tube bottom end 106be, and the second tube bottom end 108be, are positioned and held thereupon, as follows.
The first tube bottom end 106be is positioned on, and supported by, the top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ of the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts. In exemplary embodiments, the first tube bottom end 106be is positioned and supported thereupon, whereby the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the inner wall of the first tube bottom end 106be coincides with, or nearly coincides with (i.e., is immediately adjacent to, and surrounds), the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp, for example, as indicated in
The second tube bottom end 108be is positioned along, and supported by, the solid portion inner side surface 150-sp-iss. In exemplary embodiments, the second tube bottom end 108be is positioned on, and supported by, the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss. In exemplary embodiments, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the outer wall of the second tube bottom end 108be coincides with, or nearly coincides with, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ, such that the periphery of the second tube bottom end 108be securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) and stably sits upon the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the top (width wk) of the cylindrical ledge λ.
The herein disclosed device for holding bottom ends of tubes corresponds to another ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may also be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ device. In exemplary embodiments, for example, with reference to
Thus, according to another aspect of the herein disclosed invention, there is provided a device for holding bottom ends of tubes, for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws (halacha). As illustratively described hereinabove regarding the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member 150, along with reference to
In exemplary embodiments, the device 150 for holding bottom ends of tubes is configured for the following. (1) Holding: (i) the bottom end of a first tube (for example, the bottom end 106be of a first tube 106), and (ii) the bottom end of a second tube (for example, the bottom end 108be of a second tube 108 which is positioned within the first tube bottom end 106be). In exemplary embodiments, the device 150 is configured for additionally being suitable for holding: (iii) the bottom end of a filter medium (for example, the bottom end 104be of the filter medium 104). (2) Facilitating continuous and unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits the openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) of the first tube 106, the openings 140 (s1, s2, bm) of the second tube 108, and the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp of the device 150. In practice, when the device 150 for holding bottom ends of tubes is used in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (for example, apparatus 100), such structural and functional (operational) features of the device 150, and continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, prevent formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus, and also contribute to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation thereof.
In exemplary embodiments of the device 150, the encircling solid portion 150sp includes a solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, a solid portion bottom surface 150sp-bs, a solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss, and a solid portion outer side surface 150sp-oss.
The cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp has an overall diameter Dsp, an outer radius r1, an inner radius r2, and a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) Hsp. The top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp varies between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2, in accordance with the device 150 solid portion top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ, and gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α thereof. For example, the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp decreases (as indicated by the downward directed dotted line arrow) from a maximum height transverse to the outer radius r1, to a minimum height transverse to the inner radius r2.
The solid portion top surface 150sp-ts is configured with a top surface gradient (inclination, slope, slant) γ that latitudinally spans and descends, upon and along the solid portion top surface 150sp-ts, between the outer radius r1 and the inner radius r2 of the encircling solid portion 150sp. The top surface gradient γ has a gradient (inclination, slope, slant) angle α, as defined hereinabove. In exemplary embodiments, the gradient angle α is in a broad range of between one degree (1°) and eighty-nine (89°). In exemplary embodiments, the gradient angle α is in a particular range of between three degrees (3°) and twenty degrees (20°).
The solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss has a bottom end portion configured as a cylindrical ledge (relatively small horizontal projection) λ, that (slightly) horizontally, circularly extends (projects) from, and along, the circumferential periphery (perimeter) of the bottom end portion of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss, inwardly into the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp. The cylindrical ledge λ has a top to bottom (longitudinal) length (height) hλ, a width wλ, and a diameter dλ, wherein the diameter dλ is less than the diameter of the remaining part of the solid portion inner side surface 150sp-iss (being the diameter Dchp of the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp).
In exemplary embodiments of the device 150, the cylindrical central hollow portion 150chp has a diameter Dchp, and a top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hchp (dotted line two headed arrow) that corresponds to the smallest (inner radius r2) top to bottom longitudinal length (height) Hsp of the cylindrical encircling solid portion 150sp. The central hollow portion 150chp is configured for facilitating continuous and unobstructed passage therethrough of filtered and cleaned mikvah water that enters, passes through, and exits, the first tube 106 and the second tube 108.
The herein disclosed tubular device corresponds to another ‘sub-combination’ of the (overall) apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, and may also be considered as an individual ‘stand-alone’ device. In exemplary embodiments, for example, with reference to
Thus, according to another aspect of the herein disclosed invention, there is provided a tubular device for use in an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws (halacha). The tubular device 106 consists essentially of, or, alternatively, consists of, a first tube 106, longitudinally extending downwardly and upwardly between top and bottom ends 106te and 106be, respectively, of the first tube 106, and configured with a plurality of first tube openings (holes or/and slits) 134 (s1, s2, bm). In exemplary embodiment of the tubular device, the first tube 106 is configured for collateral secure (firm, tight, snug) positioning therein of a second tube (for example, inner tube 108) that longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between second tube top and bottom ends (for example, 108te and 108be, respectively). In exemplary embodiments, the plurality of first tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) are spatially adjacently alignable, so as to nearly coincide with, a plurality of openings (holes or/and slits), for example, 140 (s1, s2, bm), of a second tube (for example, inner tube 108), in order to facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of filtered and cleaned mikvah water from the tubular device (first tube) openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) into and through the second tube openings (for example, 140 (s1, s2, bm)).
In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in
The forced water circulation assembly 110 facilitates forced continuous and directional flow, and, filtering and cleaning, of the mikvah water from the mikvah into and through the at least one outer tube mikvah water inlet opening (for example, inlet openings 112a, 112b, 112c, 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d) into and through the filter medium 104, into and through the middle tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) and the inner tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and, into and through the at least one outer tube mikvah water outlet opening (for example, outlet opening 116).
The propeller 170 includes a propeller hub 170hb, and a plurality of propeller blades, for example, three propeller blades 170b, outwardly extending from the propeller hub 170hb, as shown in
The propeller shaft 172 is configured with a lower portion 1721p that is securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) held in a stable centrally aligned position within the lower portion of the outer tube 102, via a propeller shaft aligning and holding member 176. The propeller shaft aligning and holding member 176 includes a hub 176hb, a cylindrical member 176cl, and a plurality of spokes (braces, rods, bars), for example, three spokes 176s, extending between the hub 176hb and the cylindrical member 176cl, as shown in
In exemplary embodiments, the cylindrical member 176cl of the propeller shaft aligning and holding member 176 includes a plurality of small sized holes 123 (configured, for example, for screws or nails), that facilitate firm connection (attachment) of the propeller shaft aligning and holding member 176 to the inside surface of the lower part of the outer tube 102. In exemplary embodiments, for example, as shown in
The propeller shaft motor assembly 174 is operatively connected (in
In exemplary embodiments, the shaft-to-shaft coupling assembly 182 includes a bottom part 182bp and a top part 182tp. The bottom part 182bp is configured for securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) holding the propeller shaft top end portion 172tep (and top end 172te thereof). The top part 182tp is configured for securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) holding the drive shaft 174ds of the propeller shaft motor assembly 174. The electrical leads 174el are connected to the leads connector 174c, which, in turn, is configured for being reversibly connectable to (and disconnectable from) a corresponding mated power supply connector of a power supply and controller unit.
Controllable power is supplied to the motor 174m for controllably driving (rotating) the drive shaft 174ds. In turn, the drive shaft 174ds mechanically engages with, and drives, the propeller shaft 172, which then turns and rotates the propeller 170. Rotation of the propeller 170 facilitates forced continuous and directional flow, and, filtering and cleaning, of mikvah water from the mikvah into and through the outer tube mikvah water inlet openings (for example, inlet openings 112a, 112b, 112c, 114a, 114b, 114c, 114d) into and through the filter medium 104, into and through the middle tube openings 134 (s1, s2, bm) and the inner tube openings 140 (s1, s2, bm), and, into and through the outer tube bottom end portion 102bep (and the outer tube mikvah water outlet opening, for example, outlet opening 116, therein) back into the mikvah.
In exemplary embodiments, the propeller shaft motor assembly 174, and the shaft-to-shaft coupling assembly 182, are housed (in
The combination of: (i) spatially adjacently aligned and nearly coincidental middle tube openings with inner tube openings; (ii) configuration of spaces or gaps in the bottommost openings (holes) of the middle tube; and (iii) configuration of the tubes and filter medium bottom ends holding member with a solid portion top surface gradient, having a gradient angle; along with other hereinabove illustratively described structural and functional (operational) features of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, facilitate continuous unobstructed flow of mikvah water, and prevent formation of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water, inside the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and also contribute to achieving high mikvah water throughput and processing (filtering and cleaning), during operation of the apparatus 100.
The herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 is designed, constructed, and operated, in ways that result in full compliance with all three of the well established requirements (rules, regulations), interpretations thereof, and guidelines thereof, regarding how mikvah water may be cleaned by using a water cleaning apparatus, according to Jewish religious and legal laws (halacha). Namely, first, during operation, any and all components or parts of the apparatus 100 that is/are in contact with the mikvah water is/are absent of standing (static, non-moving, non-flowing) mikvah water. Second, during operation, the apparatus 100 does not remove any amount of mikvah water from the mikvah. Third, during operation of the apparatus 100, the mikvah water passing (flowing) therethrough is always in continuous contact (fluid communication) with mikvah water located immediately adjacent to and outside of the apparatus 100. The term ‘continuous contact (fluid communication)’, as used herein, means that mikvah water flowing along an entire (full) path (passageway) through (from input into, and output from) the apparatus 100, is absent of any physical separation (or barrier), having width, length, or height, less than 45 mm (4.5 cm).
The mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 is configured for operating in a top to bottom (vertically/longitudinally) directed position, whereby the top to bottom (vertical/longitudinal) length (height) of the outer tube 102 is essentially parallel to a wall of a mikvah (mikvah wall), and the outer tube bottom end 102be is essentially transverse (orthogonal) to the mikvah wall and parallel to the floor of the mikvah. In exemplary embodiments, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, in such top to bottom (vertically/longitudinally) directed position, is reversibly, securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) and stably connected (attached) to a wall of a mikvah (mikvah wall). In exemplary embodiments, a mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly (wall securing assembly) is configured, and used, for facilitating such secure and stable connection of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 to a mikvah wall.
In exemplary embodiments, the first member 302 of the wall securing assembly 300 is configured in a form of a semi-square or semi-rectangular plate 308 having a semi-circular/semi-cylindrical portion 306 and two openings (holes) 310. The semi-circular/semi-cylindrical portion 306 is configured for securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) engaging with the outer circumferential periphery of the outer tube top end portion 102tep of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 (for example, as shown in
In exemplary embodiments, the second member 304 of the wall securing assembly 300 is configured in a form of a folded plate having two main sides 312 and 314 perpendicular to each other. The folded plate first main side 312 has two (hollow or solid) cylindrical rods or bars 316, that are configured for securely and stably engaging with the openings (holes) 310 of the first member 302. The folded plate second main side 314 has two openings (holes) 318 that are configured for passage therethrough of screws, that facilitate secure and stable connection (attachment) of the folded plate second main side 314, and of the overall second member 304, to a wall of a mikvah.
The filter medium 104 is removable from the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, and replaceable (either with a brand new filter medium 104, or after being cleaned and reconditioned for further use) in the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100. In exemplary embodiments, removal and replacement of the filter medium 104 is performed with the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 remaining in-situ (in place) securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) and stably connected (attached) to a mikvah wall (for example, via wall securing assembly 300). In alternative exemplary embodiments, for example, when there is need to remove the entire mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 (with its not yet cleaned filter medium 104) out from the mikvah, removal and replacement of the filter medium 104 is performed with the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 outside of the mikvah (for example, via detaching mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 from wall securing assembly 300).
Following are described two categories of exemplary embodiments of the filter medium 104 configured for being operative in the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, whereby the filter medium 100 eventually becomes undesirably unclean with substantial decrease in its ability to properly filter and clean the mikvah water entering into the apparatus 100.
In a first category of exemplary embodiments, the filter medium 104 is configured for being operative in the apparatus 100, without removal therefrom, for a period of time (depending upon several factors and operating conditions), after which the filter medium 104 is one time permanently removed from the apparatus 100 and then discarded, without being cleaned and reconditioned for further use in the apparatus 100, followed by replacing the used filter medium 104 with a brand new filter medium 104.
Alternatively, in a second category of exemplary embodiments, the filter medium 104 is configured for being operative in the apparatus 100 for a period of time (depending upon several factors and operating conditions), after which the filter medium 104 is removed from the apparatus 100, and then cleaned and reconditioned for further use in the apparatus 100, followed by replacing the cleaned and reconditioned filter medium 104 back into the apparatus 100. According to such embodiments, the cyclical sequence of removing the filter medium 104, cleaning and reconditioning the used filter medium 104, and replacing the cleaned and reconditioned filter medium 110 back into the apparatus 100, is performed a number of times, so long as the cleaned and reconditioned filter medium 104 is in a proper operative condition for continuing to filter and clean mikvah water entering into the apparatus 100.
For either of the preceding first or second category of exemplary embodiments, there is need for removing the used filter medium 104, and replacing it with either a brand new filter medium 104, or with a cleaned and reconditioned filter medium 104. According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provision of a device for removal and replacement of a filter medium, for use with an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. Disclosed herein are two main different types (a first type, and a second type) of a device for removal and replacement of a filter medium (for example, filter medium 104), for use with an apparatus for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah (for example, mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100), which complies with Jewish religious laws.
The filter medium removal and replacement device [first type] 330 includes a manual handle assembly 332 that is operatively connected to a pair of tube or rod connectors 334, which, in turn, is reversibly, connectable to, and disconnectable from, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100.
In exemplary embodiments, the manual handle assembly 332 is configured as a tube or rod with a shape and size that facilitate an operator to ergonomically firmly place one or two hands thereupon, and to manipulate top to bottom longitudinally directed motion thereof relative to the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100. The tube or rod 332 has two horizontally directed opposite end portions configured with two respective top to bottom longitudinally directed tubular channels 332tc oppositely positioned and parallel relative to each other.
In exemplary embodiments, in the pair of tube or rod connectors, each tube or rod connector 334 longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between tube or rod connector top and bottom ends. Each tube or rod connector 334 has atop end portion 334tep wherein the top end thereof passes through a respective one of the tubular channels 332tc, and is reversibly, transversely, fixedly connected, via bolts 336 and 338, to one of the opposite end portions of the manual handle assembly tube or rod 332. Additionally, each tube or rod connector 334 has a bottom end portion 334bep wherein the bottom end is configured with a screw threading (for example, male screw threading) 334bt that is screwable with a mated screw threading (for example, female screw threading 132) configured in a top portion (for example, in the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130) of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 that covers, and is engaged with, the filter medium top end 104te. In exemplary embodiments, the pair of tube or rod connectors 334 is configured to be removably placeable, in a form of a bridge, over the motor housing 188 and engageable with the mated screw threading 132 of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, for example, as particularly shown in
The filter medium removal and replacement device [second type] 350 includes a manual handle assembly 352 that is operatively connected to an extension member 354. The extension member 354 is operatively connected to a tubular connector assembly 356, which, in turn, is reversibly, connectable to, and disconnectable from, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100.
In exemplary embodiments, the manual handle assembly 352 includes a manual handle 358 and a handle holder 360 that holds the manual handle 358. The manual handle assembly 352 is configured with a shape and size that facilitate an operator to ergonomically firmly place one or two hands thereupon, and to manipulate top to bottom longitudinally directed motion thereof relative to the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100.
In exemplary embodiments, the extension member 354 is configured as a tube or rod, longitudinally extending downwardly and upwardly between the tube or rod top and bottom ends 354te and 354be, respectively. The extension member top end 354te is fixedly connected to the bottom end of the handle holder 360, so as to provide top to bottom longitudinal extension of the manual handle assembly 352.
In exemplary embodiments, the tubular connector assembly 356 includes a tubular body 356tb, a top end cover 356tec, and a bottom end cover 356bec. The tubular body 356tb longitudinally extends downwardly and upwardly between the tubular body top and bottom ends 356te and 356be, respectively. The top end cover 356tec is fixedly connected to the bottom end 354be of the extension member tube or rod 354. The bottom end cover 356bec is configured with a screw threading (for example, a female screw threading) that is screwable with a mated screw threading (for example, male screw threading 133) configured in a top portion (for example, in the filter medium and middle tube top ends cover assembly 130) of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 that covers, and is engaged with, the filter medium top end 104te. In exemplary embodiments, the tubular connector assembly 356 is configured to be removably placeable over the motor housing 188 and engageable with the mated screw threading 133 of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100, for example, as particularly shown in
The following figures are of photographs showing various views of an exemplary (actual) prototype mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number p100], and components thereof. For purposes of preserving clarity and consistency, in the following illustrative description, the components, and the structural features, of the prototype mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus p100 are assigned ‘identically’ the same reference numbers as the respectively corresponding components, and structural features, of the exemplary mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 illustratively described hereinabove.
The following figures are of photographs showing various views of an exemplary (actual) prototype mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly [indicated as, and referred to by, reference number p300], and components thereof. For purposes of preserving clarity and consistency, in the following illustrative description, the components, and the structural features, of the prototype mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly p300 are assigned ‘identically’ the same reference numbers as the respectively corresponding components, and structural features, of the exemplary mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly 300 illustratively described hereinabove.
The following figures are of photographs showing various views of exemplary (actual) prototypes of the two main different types (the first type, and the second type) of the filter medium removal and replacement device [indicated as, and referred to by, reference numbers p330 and p350, respectively], and components thereof. For purposes of preserving clarity and consistency, in the following illustrative description, the components, and the structural features, of the prototype filter medium removal and replacement devices p330 [first type] and p350 [second type] are assigned ‘identically’ the same reference numbers as the respectively corresponding components, and structural features, of the exemplary two main different types (first type, and second type) of the filter medium removal and replacement devices 330 and 350, respectively, illustratively described hereinabove.
Application and operation of the exemplary mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus 100 (
Another aspect of the present disclosure is provision of a method for filtering and cleaning water in a mikvah, which complies with Jewish religious laws. With reference to
In such exemplary embodiments, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus (100 or 100p) that is placed inside the mikvah includes: an outer tube 102, a tubular filter medium 104, a middle tube 106, an inner tube 108, and a forced water circulation assembly 110 operatively connected to the outer, middle, and inner tubes, whereby the numerous structural and functional aspects and features of these components are illustratively described hereinabove.
The mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus (100 or 100p) is placeable inside the mikvah according to any of a variety of different possible positions and configurations. In exemplary embodiments, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus (100 or 100p) is placed and configured inside the mikvah for operating in a top to bottom (vertically/longitudinally) directed position, whereby the top to bottom (vertical/longitudinal) length (height) of the outer tube 102 is essentially parallel to a wall of the mikvah (mikvah wall), and the outer tube bottom end 102be is essentially transverse (orthogonal) to the mikvah wall and parallel to the floor of the mikvah.
In exemplary embodiments, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus (100 or 100p), in such top to bottom (vertically/longitudinally) directed position, is reversibly, securely (firmly, tightly, snugly) and stably connected (attached) to a wall of the mikvah (mikvah wall). In exemplary embodiments, such reversible, secure and stable connecting (attaching) of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus (100 or 100p) to the mikvah wall is facilitated by using a mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly (for example, the herein disclosed wall securing assembly 300 or 300p).
As shown
The following, in a non-limiting manner, is presentation of exemplary materials of construction, and exemplary size dimensions, of components of the herein disclosed mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus. Implementation and practice of embodiments of the herein disclosed invention are not limited to the below presented exemplary materials and size dimensions. Alternative or additional materials of construction and size dimensions may be used for implementing and practicing embodiments of the herein disclosed invention.
Components of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus are made of materials that are (to a large extent) rust and corrosion resistant, and which are capable of providing a relatively long lifetime (for example, of up to several years) of continuous, robust use and operation of these devices in a mikvah water environment. In exemplary embodiments, apparatus components are made mostly of plastic materials, except for some selected components, electrical components, and small screws or/and nails which, instead of plastic, are made of rust and corrosion resistant metallic materials. In exemplary embodiments, selected components of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus are made of composite materials, being materials consisting of combinations of plastic, metal, or/and ceramic materials, that are rust and corrosion resistant. In exemplary embodiments, selected components of the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus are made of a suitable combination of plastic materials, metallic materials, and composite materials.
Capable of routine and continuous operation for forcibly circulating the mikvah water through the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus, at a volumetric rate of up to 10,000 liters (cubic meters)-20,000 liters (cubic meters) of mikvah water per hour.
Operative via direct current (DC) with, for example, 24 volts DC, or 12 volts DC.
Capable of routine and continuous operation with power in a range of between 100 watts and 2,000 watts, for example, 500 watts.
In exemplary embodiments, the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus wall securing assembly, and the filter medium removal and replacement device [first and second types], are made of the same (above listed) materials as for the mikvah water filtering and cleaning apparatus.
Each of the following terms written in singular grammatical form: ‘a’, ‘an’, and ‘the’, as used herein, means ‘at least one’, or ‘one or more’. Use of the phrase ‘one or more’ herein does not alter this intended meaning of ‘a’, ‘an’, or ‘the’. Accordingly, the terms ‘a’, ‘an’, and ‘the’, as used herein, may also refer to, and encompass, a plurality of the stated entity or object, unless otherwise specifically defined or stated herein, or, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the phrases: ‘a unit’, ‘a device’, ‘an assembly’, ‘a mechanism’, ‘a component’, ‘an element’, and ‘a step or procedure’, as used herein, may also refer to, and encompass, a plurality of units, a plurality of devices, a plurality of assemblies, a plurality of mechanisms, a plurality of components, a plurality of elements, and, a plurality of steps or procedures, respectively.
Each of the following terms: ‘includes’, ‘including’, ‘has’, ‘having’, ‘comprises’, and ‘comprising’, and, their linguistic/grammatical variants, derivatives, or/and conjugates, as used herein, means ‘including, but not limited to’, and is to be taken as specifying the stated component(s), feature(s), characteristic(s), parameter(s), integer(s), or step(s), and does not preclude addition of one or more additional component(s), feature(s), characteristic(s), parameter(s), integer(s), step(s), or groups thereof.
Each of the phrases ‘consisting of’, and ‘consists of’, as used herein, means ‘including and limited to’.
Each of the phrases ‘consisting essentially of’, and ‘consists essentially of’, as used herein, means that the stated entity or item (system, system unit, system sub-unit, device, assembly, sub-assembly, mechanism, structure, component, element, or, peripheral equipment, utility, accessory, or material, method or process, step or procedure, sub-step or sub-procedure), which is an entirety or part of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed invention, or/and which is used for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed invention, may include at least one additional ‘feature or characteristic’ being a system unit, system sub-unit, device, assembly, sub-assembly, mechanism, structure, component, or element, or, peripheral equipment, utility, accessory, or material, step or procedure, sub-step or sub-procedure), but only if each such additional ‘feature or characteristic’ does not materially alter the basic novel and inventive characteristics or special technical features, of the claimed entity or item.
The term ‘method’, as used herein, refers to a single step, procedure, manner, means, or/and technique, or a sequence, set, or group of two or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, for accomplishing or achieving a given task or action. Any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, may include one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, that are known or readily developed from one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, previously taught about by practitioners in the relevant field(s) and art(s) of the herein disclosed invention. In any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, the stated or presented sequential order of one or more steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, is not limited to that specifically stated or presented sequential order, for accomplishing or achieving a given task or action, unless otherwise specifically defined or stated herein, or, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Accordingly, in any such herein disclosed method, in a non-limiting manner, there may exist one or more alternative sequential orders of the same steps, procedures, manners, means, or/and techniques, for accomplishing or achieving a same given task or action, while maintaining same or similar meaning and scope of the herein disclosed invention.
Throughout this disclosure, a numerical value of a parameter, feature, characteristic, object, or dimension, may be stated or described in terms of a numerical range format. Such a numerical range format, as used herein, illustrates implementation of some exemplary embodiments of the invention, and does not inflexibly limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, a stated or described numerical range also refers to, and encompasses, all possible sub-ranges and individual numerical values (where a numerical value may be expressed as a whole, integral, or fractional number) within that stated or described numerical range. For example, a stated or described numerical range ‘from 1 to 6’ also refers to, and encompasses, all possible sub-ranges, such as ‘from 1 to 3’, ‘from 1 to 4’, ‘from 1 to 5’, ‘from 2 to 4’, ‘from 2 to 6’, ‘from 3 to 6’, etc., and individual numerical values, such as ‘1’, ‘1.3’, ‘2’, ‘2.8’, ‘3’, ‘3.5’, ‘4’, ‘4.6’, ‘5’, ‘5.2’, and ‘6’, within the stated or described numerical range of ‘from 1 to 6’. This applies regardless of the numerical breadth, extent, or size, of the stated or described numerical range.
Moreover, for stating or describing a numerical range, the phrase ‘in a range of between about a first numerical value and about a second numerical value’, is considered equivalent to, and meaning the same as, the phrase ‘in a range of from about a first numerical value to about a second numerical value’, and, thus, the two equivalently meaning phrases may be used interchangeably. For example, for stating or describing the numerical range of room temperature, the phrase ‘room temperature refers to a temperature in a range of between about 20° C. and about 25° C.’, is considered equivalent to, and meaning the same as, the phrase ‘room temperature refers to a temperature in a range of from about 20° C. to about 25° C.’.
The term ‘about’, as used herein, refers to ±10% of the stated numerical value.
The phrase ‘operatively connected’, as used herein, equivalently refers to the corresponding synonymous phrases ‘operatively joined’, and ‘operatively attached’. These phrases, as used herein, mean that the described or/and shown entities are configured ‘connected’ to each other, in an ‘operative’ (ready-for-operation/ready-for-use) manner. Such operative connection, operative joint, or operative attachment, between or among the entities is according to one type, or a plurality of types, of a mechanical (physical, structural), or/and an electrical, or/and an electronic, or/and an electro-mechanical, connection or connections, involving one or more corresponding type(s) or kind(s) of mechanical (physical, structural), or/and electrical, or/and electronic, or/and electro-mechanical, equipment and components.
The phrase ‘operably connectable’, as used herein, equivalently refers to the corresponding synonymous phrases ‘operably joinable to’, and ‘operably attachable to’. These phrases, as used herein, mean that the described or/and shown entities are configured ‘connectable’ to each other (i.e., capable of being connected to each other, having ability to be connected to each other, or having potential to be connected to each other), for subsequently forming an ‘operative connection’, an ‘operative joint’, or an ‘operative attachment’, between or among the entities. Such operable connectability, operable joinability, or operable attachability, between or among the entities is according to one type, or a plurality of types, of a mechanical (physical, structural), or/and an electrical, or/and an electronic, or/and an electro-mechanical, connection or connections, involving one or more corresponding type(s) or kind(s) of mechanical (physical, structural), or/and electrical, or/and electronic, or/and electro-mechanical, equipment and components.
It is to be fully understood that certain aspects, characteristics, and features, of the invention, which are, for clarity, illustratively described and presented in the context or format of a plurality of separate embodiments, may also be illustratively described and presented in any suitable combination or sub-combination in the context or format of a single embodiment. Conversely, various aspects, characteristics, and features, of the invention which are illustratively described and presented in combination or sub-combination in the context or format of a single embodiment, may also be illustratively described and presented in the context or format of a plurality of separate embodiments.
Although the invention has been illustratively described and presented by way of specific exemplary embodiments, and examples thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, or/and variations, thereof, will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended that all such alternatives, modifications, or/and variations, are encompassed by the broad scope of the appended claims.
All publications, patents, and or/and patent applications, cited or referred to in this disclosure are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or/and patent application, was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this specification shall not be construed or understood as an admission that such reference represents or corresponds to prior art of the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.
This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/283,066, filed Nov. 24, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IB22/00704 | 11/22/2022 | WO |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63283066 | Nov 2021 | US |
