WO2012107928A2

WO2012107928A2 - Beverage dispenser with a removable filter

Info

Publication number: WO2012107928A2
Application number: PCT/IL2012/050038
Authority: WO
Inventors: Haim Wilder
Original assignee: Strauss Water Ltd.
Priority date: 2011-02-08
Filing date: 2012-02-02
Publication date: 2012-08-16
Also published as: IL217851A; IL217850A0; CN202681646U; WO2012107928A3; IL217852A; CN202589281U; IL212134A; CN102633223A; IL212134A0; IL217852A0; CN202589282U; CN102670070A; IL217851A0; CN102633224A

Abstract

The invention generally describes a beverage dispenser, comprising a beverage supply source, a beverage dispensing outlet, a flow system leading from said source to said outlet, a receptacle for receiving a removable filter element and for functionally disposing it in the flow system; and a filter replacement mechanism for replacement of the filter element.

Description

Beverage Dispenser with a Removable Filter

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a dispenser for beverages such as a potable water dispenser.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Devices for filtering and dispensing of beverages are known, and especially for filtering source water into potable water.

For example, US Patent Application No. US2010/163470 discloses a water dispenser comprising a water inlet to receive water from a water supply, a water filter assembly and a water outlet operative to provide filtered water received from said water filter assembly.

US Patent No. 5,111,966 describes a water dispenser, comprising an inverted water bottle, extending upwardly from the water dispenser, which refills a container within the water dispenser; the container provides a source of water to a tap. A water processing system may be housed within the water dispenser to purify the water inflowing from the source of water.

Further examples are given, at least in part, in patent publications W098/17582, WO2008/058613, US 6,841,067, US 5,823,007 and US 6,074550.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a beverage dispenser that includes a replaceable filter element. According to the invention, the device comprises a filter system with a filter replacement mechanism, typically user-actuated, that is configured to present a filter element to a user for either inspection or replacement. The filter system of the invention has thus two basic states: an operational state in which the filter element is within the device and is integrated into a flow system for filtration of the beverage, referred to herein as "first state "; and an operational state in which the filter is presented to a user for the aforesaid purpose, referred to herein as "second state". The present invention provides a beverage dispenser that comprises a beverage supply source, a beverage dispensing outlet, a flow system leading from said source to said outlet and a receptacle for receiving a removable filter element and for functionally disposing it in the flow system. The dispenser further comprises a filter replacement mechanism for replacing the filter element. Said replacement mechanism has a first and a second state and is switchable between the two states. In the first state a filter received in said receptacle is operationally engaged with engagement elements of the flow system and in the second state said filter element is disengaged from said engagement elements and accessible to a user for removal or replacement. By one embodiment, the switching from one of said states to another is through a user-activated actuation mechanism.

The filter replacement mechanism in the dispenser of the invention is typically constituted within a filter mechanism frame that holds elements of the flow system and the filter replacement mechanism.

The beverage is preferably water. The dispenser according to this embodiment is thus used for filtering source water into potable water.

According to an embodiment of the invention the dispenser is configured for gravitational filtration of the beverage. In other words, the beverage in accordance with this embodiment, is propelled through the liquid flow system and thus through a filter element in a gravitational manner. Particularly, such a dispenser may include a source beverage tank that is accessible to a user so as to permit its filling, the source beverage tank being in flow-communication with the filter through an opening at its bottom. In order to permit detaching of the source beverage tank for its filling, the opening may be associated with a valve, that closes the opening when the source beverage tank is removed. Therefore, in one of its embodiments, the invention provides for a beverage dispenser, comprising beverage supply source, a beverage dispensing outlet, a filter element for filtering the beverage; a removable source beverage tank having an opening at its bottom, said opening being associated with a valve operable to automatically seal the opening upon removal of the tank, a filtered beverage storage tank, and a flow system leading from said source tank to said outlet through said valve and the filter element which is disposed is said flow system.

While it is possible to link the filter outlet directly to the dispensing outlet, the dispenser may also includes a filtered beverage storage tank, into which filtered beverage flows and stored therein. Thus, a dispenser of this embodiment includes more than one flow sub-systems, at least one first flow sub-system which leads from the source tank to the storage tank, with a filter element being functionally disposed therein to filter the beverage flowing therethrough, and at least one second each of which comprises at least one pump for propelling the beverage, leading from the storage tank to the outlet.

A beverage dispenser that comprises a beverage supply source, beverage dispensing outlet, filter element for filtering the beverage and at least two flow subsystems as described above, is also an independent aspect of the invention.

The dispenser of the invention, as known per se, may comprise one or both of a beverage cooling system and a beverage heating system for respective cooling or heating the beverage to be dispensed out of the outlet. Examples are cooling and heating elements of the kind disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO2011/114327, as well as some other elements such as those of the kind acknowledged in the background section of these to patent applications.

In the following, the terms "filter" and "filter element" may be used interchangeably.

A filter element is typically received within a receptacle which is displaceable between a closed and open position, which positions correspond to the first and the second states, respectively. The receptacles are typically biased, by a spring or by other means, into the open position. The dispenser also includes a restraining mechanism that holds the receptacle in the closed position and is being configured to release the receptacle upon actuation of the actuation mechanism and permits its displacement to the open position. By one non-limiting example, the displacement of the receptacle from the open to the closed position is in a pivotal manner.

The dispenser of the invention typically comprises a flap that can be displaced between an open and a closed state serving as a kind of door to permit the presentation and replacement of the filter. In the closed state such a flap constitutes an element of the dispenser's external features, typically being part of external wall of the dispenser; and in the open state it permits extraction of the filter element. The flap is typically linked, directly or indirectly, to the displaceable receptacle, such that the displacement of the receptacle between its opened and closed positions corresponds to the movement of the flap between its closed and open states. According to one embodiment, to be referred to herein as the "handle configuration ", the dispenser comprises a user accessible handle element that is pivotally displaceable between a first orientation and second orientation to thereby actuate the filter element replacement mechanism between its first and second states. An engagement element, that is adapted for engagement with an upper end of the filter in a fluid-tight manner, is linked to the handle element, and through pivotal displacement of the latter the engagement element is substantially vertically displaced between an engaged and disengaged state.

The engagement element engages with the upper end of the filter element and is, by one embodiment, typically, albeit not exclusively, axisymmetrical, having an opening at its upper end, that is linked to a flexible conduit element; an open bottom end with a downward projecting circumferential wall; and a skirt portion peripheral thereto. Said wall is dimensioned to fit into a depression that is formed in a top end of the filter element, the depression having a bottom wall with perforations so as to permit liquid ingress into the filter's interior. Said wall and said skirt portion, typically lined with an elastomer, are adapted for a fluid-tight engagement with the depression.

The dispenser according to an embodiment of the invention comprises an opening at a top end of a filtered beverage storage tank which is situated below the filter element. The opening is configured for engagement with an engagement portion at the bottom end of the filter element, so as to form a fluid-tight engagement once the filter replacement mechanism is in said first stage. Thereby, liquid egressing out of the filter enters the storage tank. The opening is typically fitted with a valve element that can close the opening once the filter replacement mechanism removes the filter when it switches from its first state to its second state. An example of a valve is a membrane having one or more slits or arrangement with two slightly overlapping membranes, which become deformed upon engagement of the engagement portion to thereby permit liquid entry into said storage tank.

Upon displacement of the filter element, while the mechanism transitions from its first to its second state, some non-filtered beverage may still remain in the flow system above the filter and may otherwise drip into the filtered beverage storage tank. The valve element thus ensures that unfiltered beverage will not drain into the storage tank. Furthermore, the dispenser also typically includes an inclined surface element that surrounds the opening, which is downwardly inclined, draining non-filtered beverage into a spill collector element. According to one embodiment of the invention, the glass support and spill collector element comprises a grid element, a spill collector, a float and an opening, wherein the opening is in fluid-communication with the downwardly- inclined surface element for draining non-filtered beverage into said spill collector. The glass support and spill collector element is engaged with the dispenser, according to an embodiment of the invention, by a snap-fit engagement.

Therefore, in an embodiment of the invention there is provides a beverage dispenser, comprising a glass support and spill collector element having a spill receptacle, said element having a rear member adapted for engagement with an accommodating recess defined in the front of the dispenser. In an embodiment, the rear member snap-fits into said recess.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, to be referred to herein as the "reciprocal tray configuration " the receptacle is configured to be reciprocal along a substantially horizontal linear path between a closed, retracted position, in which the receptacle is housed within the dispenser and an open, extended position in which the receptacle is exposed to permit replacement of the filter element. A receptacle is typically configured as an opening designed to receive the filter element, which opening is defined in a reciprocally displaceable tray element.

Said opening is typically configured in a front portion of the tray element, which front portion is pivotally linked to a rear portion of the tray element and rotatable about an axis normal to said linear path between a horizontal orientation, typically flush with the remainder of the tray element, and a forward tilted orientation to facilitate replacement of the filter element. The term "forward tilted orientation " refers to an orientation in which the rear end of the front portion rotates upward and in a forward direction. The front portion is biased into the forward tilted orientation and is restrained in the horizontal orientation. The restrain is released to permit rotation into the forward tilted orientation upon the tray element reaching the open position, namely when reaching the fully open position or during its movement slightly before that.

The restraining mechanism that holds said front portion in the horizontal orientation typically comprises a sideward projecting pin, that can reciprocate between a restraining position, in which the mechanism restrains the front portion in its horizontal orientation, and a releasing position in which the front portion is released to rotate into the forward tilted orientation, with the pin being biased into its restraining position. A pin guiding element is provided, configured to guide the pin to displace from its restraining position to its releasing position during the tray's forward displacement from the closed to the open position to thereby release the front portion to rotate into its forward tilted orientation. The guiding element is configured so as not to displace the pin during the tray's reciprocal displacement from the open to the closed position.

Such forward tilted orientation makes it easier for the user to view and replace the filter element. Following filter inspection or filter replacement if necessary, a user rotates said tilted front portion back into its horizontal orientation, which is then latched into that orientation by said restraining mechanism. Given the configuration of the pin guiding element as noted above, the pin is not displaced during the rearward movement, and thus front portion of the tray element remains in the horizontal orientation.

In order to permit its forward movement, said tray element of the reciprocating tray configuration, is typically biased into the open position by biasing arrangement. The dispenser according to this embodiment comprises also a tray latching arrangement adapted for restraining the tray element in the closed position and for releasing the tray element to permit its displacement into the open position in the second state of the dispenser. The biasing arrangement is configured, according to one embodiment, to provide a substantially constant force throughout the movement of the tray element from the closed to the open position. Also provided according to an embodiment of the invention, is a tray element movement dampening arrangement which is intended to impart smooth movement of the tray element from its closed to its open position. An exemplary motion restraining arrangement is friction element cooperating with a cogged wheel that is coupled to a cogged track formed in the tray element. Thus, by this exemplary embodiment, during the linear displacement of the tray element the cogged wheel rotates to dampen rapid movement.

By one embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration, the dispenser comprises a user actuatable element operable to actuate the filter replacement mechanism to switch from its first to its second state. The user-actuatable element may, for example, be driven by a solenoid which is activated by a user accessible electrical switch.

The dispenser in accordance with the embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration may also comprise a flap that is movable between a closed state, in which it defines an element of the dispenser's external features, and an open state which corresponds to the replacement mechanism's first and second states, respectively serving as a door through which the filter can be presented for replacement. The flap typically moves between the closed and open state through a change in its orientation. By one embodiment, when in the open state the flap is in a substantially horizontal orientation in a plane below that defined by the tray element and its movement into that orientation is through a downward rotation about an axis below the plane defined by the tray element.

In accordance with one embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration, the flap is associated with a biasing arrangement for biasing it into the open state. The flap is restrained in its closed state by a flap latching arrangement that has a stable state, in which it latches the flap, and restrains it in its closed state, and has a transient state for releasing the flap to permit its movement into the open state. The flap latching arranged is biased into said stable state. The dispenser of this embodiment includes an actuation element operable to switch said flap latching arrangement from its stable to the transient state. The actuation element is typically driven by a solenoid operable by a user activated electrical switch. The tray element of this embodiment is associated with a tray element latching arrangement that has a stable state in which it latches the tray element and restrains it in its closed position and has a transient state for releasing the tray element to permit its displacement into the open position. The tray element latching arrangement is biased into the stable state. Further, in accordance with this embodiment the flap is linked to an actuation element that is configured to switch said tray element latching arrangement from its stable to its transient state when the flap has moved at least partially towards its open state.

The switch back into the first state, in the reciprocating tray configuration, is typically by one or both of (i) pushing the tray element back into its closed position, and (ii) forcing the flap to move into its closed state.

A filter element which may be used in a dispenser of the invention is typically, although not exclusively, of a substantially cylindrical form. The term "substantially cylindrical form" is meant to denote having an overall cylindrical shape; it may also have some irregular features on its face, may have one or more portions not fully cylindrical, e.g. have an oval cross-section, etc. The top end of the filter element has a depression, again typically, although not exclusively, axisymmetrical, which is surrounded by walls that extend down from the upper face of the filter element. The depression has a bottom wall with perforations that permit liquid ingress into the filter's interior. The bottom end of such a filter element is formed with at least one opening, typically formed at the center, for liquid egress. It is to be noted, however, that the invention is not limited to a particular filter element and it may be implemented with a large variety of different filter elements.

One problem of gravitational filtration is initial wetting of a new filter element, as surface tension and other factors may inhibit proper flooding of the filter, which is necessary for continuous and unhindered operation of the dispenser. Thus, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, there is provided a beverage dispenser with a mechanism for filter initiation in gravitationally-based filtration. The filter initiation mechanism comprises a pump which operates, either automatically upon detection of a new filter, or manually initiated by the user after filter replacement. The pump is activated and pumps sufficient quantity beverage in order to initially wet the filter. The beverage dispenser according to this embodiment, comprises, from top to bottom, a source beverage tank, a replaceable filter receptacle and a filtered beverage storage tank, and comprises a system for emitting the source beverage to be filtered through the filter and being collected into the filtered beverage storage tank, the beverage being gravitationally propelled; and comprising an initiating pump configured for propelling an amount of beverage through the filter so as to properly wet a newly replaced filter.

Also provided by the invention is a beverage dispenser for gravitational filtration having an initiation mechanism of the kind defined above.

It should be noted that some of the embodiments described in connection with the handle configuration are also applicable for use in the reciprocating tray configuration of the embodiment of the invention. In particular, an engagement element of the kind described in connection with the former configuration may also be used in the latter. Similarly, the provision of flow subsystems, of the kind described above, a filtered beverage storage tank below the filter element, the opening engaged with the bottom of the filter element, the one-way valve arrangement to void drainage of non- filtered beverage thereinto as well as the inclined surface embodiments may all be applied also in connection with the reciprocating tray embodiment.

In the description below the invention will be described in connection with two specific embodiments of the invention, one embodiment falling within the scope of the handle configuration of the invention and the other within the framework of the reciprocating configuration.

While the embodiments specifically described herein show dispensers with a user-actuated replacement mechanism, it should be noted that automatic actuation is not excluded. Reference is made to PCT Publication No. WO2011/030340 disclosing a filter element comprising a usage indicator. The use of filter elements with a usage or life span indicator of the kind disclosed in said PCT application, as a basis for automatic filter status monitoring is also envisaged in accordance with the invention, whereby the actuation of the filter replacement mechanism may be automatic.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to understand the invention and to see how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a water dispenser according to an embodiment of the handle configuration, with the cover of the source water tank being opened.

Fig. 2 shows the filter mechanism frame of the dispenser of Fig. 1 with some of its components, being in the closed state (without a filter for ease of illustration) and the filtered water storage tank.

Fig. 3 shows the frame and the tank of Fig. 2 in bottom perspective view with a filter receptacle having been removed to permit viewing the latch of the filter receptacle.

Fig. 4 shows the filter replacement mechanism in the open state with the receptacle linked to a flap which forms part of the dispenser's external features.

Fig. 5 shows the filter elements in the same configuration as Fig. 2 with a filter element in place.

Fig. 6A shows the device with the walls and other elements being removed in order to illustrate the flow system.

Fig. 6B is a perspective view of the filtered water storage tank.

Fig. 6C is a schematic illustration of the valving arrangement at the entry port of the filtered water storage tank. Fig. 7A shows a drinking glass/cup support tray and spill collector of the dispenser; Fig. 7B shows an exploded view of the drinking glass/cup support and spill collector.

Fig. 8A shows a perspective view of a water dispenser according to an embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration.

Fig. 8B shows the dispenser of Fig. 8A with the displaceable flap that serves as a door having been removed in order to reveal the filter and the filter receptacle and being in the closed state.

Fig. 9 shows a dispenser of Figs. 8A and 8B in the open state with the front portion of the tray element being forward tilted.

Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the filter mechanism frame, the source water tank and the associated filtered water storage tank.

Fig. 11A shows the filter mechanism frame of the dispenser of Figs. 8A-10 in its first state.

Fig. 11B is a side view of filter mechanism frame in the state of Fig. 11 A.

Fig. llC is a bottom perspective view of the filter mechanism frame of Fig. 11 A, with the door being removed for the purpose of illustration of the latching arrangement of the displaceable flap.

Figs. 12A, 12B and 12C show the filter mechanism frame in the open state prior to the forward tilt of the front portion of the reciprocating tray in respective side elevational, front perspective and front elevational views..

Fig. 12D is a close-up to perspective view of a portion of the frame in the state of Fig. 12A.

Fig. 13 shows the filter replacement mechanism in the open state with some of the frame elements being removed so as to be able to view some otherwise hidden components.

Fig. 14 shows the filter frame of Fig. 12A in the open state with the front element of the reciprocating tray being forward tilted.

Figs. 16A, 16B and 16C show, respectively, a filter element of an embodiment of the invention in a top perspective, side and bottom perspective view. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments illustrated in the drawings and that will be described below are concerned with water dispensers, namely where the beverage is source water which is filtered into potable dispensable water. It is, however, understood that there is no intention by this description to limit the invention to the case where the beverage is water.

Referring first to Fig. 1, shown is a water dispenser 100 having a source water tank 102 which is covered by a tank flap 104 which may be opened by a user to fill the tank. The dispenser has a control consul 106 situated above the water dispensing outlet 108. The device also has a drinking glass/cup support and spill collection element 110 with a sieved upper part 112 permitting collection of spilled water into the spilled water storage element 114.

The device has external walls 116 and a displaceable flap 118 which is opened for filter replacement in a manner to be described below.

Source water tank 102 is provided with a rotatable handle 120 to permit removal of the tank. Removal may be for cleaning but it is also required for the purpose of filter replacement which is carried out as described below. Removable tank 102 has an opening at its bottom (not shown) which is engaged with the flow system which has an associated valve which automatically seals this opening upon removal of the tank. When the source tank is re-engaged with the flow system, the valve is automatically opened, allowing beverage to flow from the source tank to the flow system through the opening.

Reference is now being made to Figs. 2-4. Figs. 2 and 3 show a frame 204 with the associated filtered water storage tank 202, the filter frame housing the filter system 200. The filter system housed in frame 204 has a first state, in which the filter receptacle is in a closed position, shown in Fig. 2, and a second state where the filter receptacle 206 is in the open position, shown in Fig. 4. Filter receptacle 206 is pivotally engaged to the frame through hinge 210 and is outwardly biased into the open position by a bising spring 212. Receptacle 206 is linked to flap 214 by screw engagement via openings 216.

A latching mechanism that includes a latch 218, particularly seen in Fig. 3 cooperating with an ear 220 seen in Fig. 4, latches and hence restrains the receptacle in the closed position. In operation, the outlet of the source water tank 102 is in direct communication with liquid inlet 222 of a first flow subsystem that comprises a bellows type flexible conduit 224 linked to engagement element 226 that has downwardly projecting walls 228 and a skirt portion 230 and is associated with an elastomeric element 232 which is thereby configured for fluid tight engagement with the depression 1610 at a top end of filter element 1600 (shown in Fig. 16A). The filter replacement mechanism includes also a handle which is pivotally rotatable about hinge 236 to switch the filter replacement mechanism from its first to its second state. The first state is the state in which the filter is in position for gravitational filtration of source water and in this state the handle is in a more horizontal orientation (relative to its other extreme orientation) and housed below portion 122 of source tank 102. For switching into the second state, the handle is rotated upwards into a more vertical orientation and as long as it in this position the storage tank cannot be placed back into the position shown in Fig. 1. This is one of the safety mechanisms to ensure that water will not flow in the system when the filter element is not in place.

Handle 234 is integrally formed with a coupling portion 238 with two flaps each one defining an S-shaped channel 240 accommodating rod 242 which is linked to vertically displaceable struts 244. Thereby struts 244 are vertically displaceable vis-avis handle frame 246 through the rotational displacement of handle 234. Thus, when handle 234 is displaced into its more vertical orientation, beam 242 is pulled along channels 240 and is thereby upwardly displaced, causing disengagement of the engagement element 226 from the upper end of filter element 1600.

The upward displacement of engagement element 226 also upwardly displaces latch 218, shown in Fig. 3, which is downwardly biased by a biasing spring (not shown). Once upwardly displaced, latch 218 disengages from ear 220 permitting displacement of the receptacle into the open position shown in Fig. 4. The coupling between the engagement element 226 and latch 218 is such that once engagement element 226 is displaced upwardly above a threshold level, latch 218 returns to its original position by the action of its associated biasing spring. Thus, for switching back into the first state, typically after replacement of the filter, the user angularly displaces flap 118 towards the closed position as shown in Fig. 5 and is then engaged in the closed position by latch 218. Then, the handle 234 can be rotated back to its substantially horizontal orientation so as to bring the engagement element into engagement with the upper end of filter element 1600, as can be seen in Fig. 5. Once in this state, the source water tank 102 can be placed back into position and the dispenser is again operational for source water filtration.

Reference is being made again to Fig. 2. As can be seen, storage tank 202 has an entry port 610, which projects upwardly through opening 250 formed at the bottom surface 252 of frame 204. This upwardly projecting port is fitted for fluid-tight engagement with an engagement element at the bottom of filter 1600. Surface 252 has slightly downwardly inclined slope towards outer edge 254. This downward sloped surface ends above opening 710 formed in drinking glass support and spill collecting element 110, shown in Fig. 7A, which collects water which may leak from the flow system above the filter element during filter replacement. A valving arrangement, to be described below, ensures that such spilled water will not be collected in storage tank 202. Fig. 7B shows an exploded view of the drinking glass support and spill collector element 110, comprised of a grid 712, allowing water impinging thereonto from the top to drain through the grid and to collect within the spill collector element 714. The spill collector element may also be fitted with a float 716, positioned in an aperture 718 of the grid, which is able to move vertically with the change in water level, thereby indicating to the user that water needs to be drained out of the spill collector. Element 110 is engaged with the dispenser as shown in Fig. 1, for example by a snap- fit engagement, whereby the user can draw the spill collector element 110 from the dispenser in order to drain water collected therein.

Reference is now being made to Fig. 6A showing flow system elements of the dispenser of Fig. 1. Source tank 102 with its handle 120, its outlet 130 and portion 122 which overlays handle 234 can clearly be seen. In this position struts 244 are in their fully downward position whereby engagement element 226 is engaged with filter element 1600. Outlet port 130 communicates, through a tubing system (not shown) with inlet port 222 and also, through a manifold system, with valve 620. Valve 620 has an associated initiation pump 622 which has an outlet port 624 which communicates via tubing (not shown) with second inlet port 626 to the flow system. Upon replacement of a filter, either automatically or by a user initiation, valve 620 opens, pump 622 is activated to pump an initiation quantity of water into the filter so as to fully wet its interior. Storage tank 202, as can best be seen in Fig. 6B, has an outlet port 612 linked to a pump 630 which pumps liquid into pipe 632. Pipe 632 is linked to a vertical manifold pipe 634 which feeds pumped water into valves 636, 638 and 640. Through the control of these valves, the proper liquid temperature can be fed to the dispensing outlet (not shown in Fig. 6) as will be now explained.

The dispenser includes also a water heating system 642 which may be of the kind disclosed in US Provisional Application No. 61/282,670, which is appended hereto as Annex A. The dispenser also includes a cooling system, including a heat exchange element 644 and a cooling fluid system 646, which may be of the kind disclosed in PCT Publication No. WO2011/030339, being incorporated herein by reference. One of the valves 636, 638 and 640, directs filtered water through heating system 642, the other through cooling system 644, for respective propelling of heated or cooled water to the dispensing outlet 108 and the third directs filtered water at ambient temperature directly to said outlet. Thus, through proper mixing of water with different temperatures, filtered water at any desired temperature at the outlet can be dispensed.

With reference made now to Figs. 6B and 6C, as can be seen inlet port 610 is fitted with an elastomeric element 650 which ensures fluid-tight seal with the bottom outlet of the filter element. Provided also is a fluid level gauge 652 which may be of the kind disclosed in PCT Application No. PCT/IL2011/050085 which is appended hereto as Annex B the content of which being incorporated herein by reference. The tank also includes a temperature gauge 654 for measurement of the temperature of the water inside tank 202 which is one of the inputs into the control system (not described herein) for achieving a desired dispensed water temperature.

As can be seen in Fig. 6C, port 610 is fitted with a membrane 660 which has slits 662. When deformed upon engagement with the bottom opening of filter element 1600, the slits open permitting water entry into the tank.

An embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration will now be described with reference to Figs. 8A-15. This embodiment will be described with emphasis made on its filter replacement mechanism. As can be appreciated the water dispenser may include heating and cooling systems, temperature control systems and other elements described in connection with the embodiment of rotating handle configuration described above. Reference is now being made to Figs. 8A and 8B, showing a water dispenser 800 which is an embodiment of the reciprocating tray configuration, wherein Fig. 8A shows the device with the displaceable flap 820 in a closed state while in Fig. 8B this flap has been removed so as to illustrate internal elements. As can be seen in Fig. 8A, in the closed state, flap 820 is an element in the dispenser's external features. The removal of flap 820 reveals a filter replacement mechanism 810 with a filter receptacle 812, to be described below, holding a filter element 1600. The water dispenser includes a control consul 814, with a display 816 overlaying a dispensing outlet 818. The water dispenser also includes a drinking glass/cup holding and spill collecting element 822 which is similar in its function and structure to element 110 of the dispenser 100 described above and the reader is referred to its description, among others with reference to Fig. 7, above, for understanding of its structure and function.

In Figs. 8A and 8B the water dispenser is shown in its first, operative state, while Fig. 9 shows a dispenser in its second state that permits inspection and replacement of filter 1600. Unlike the case in the embodiment of Figs. 1-7, the activation of the filter replacement mechanism to switch into its second state shown in Fig. 9 is done by pressing an electric switch or through pressing of a touch screen, so as to actuate a solenoid which then induces a transition between the states in the manner to be explained below.

Fig. 10 shows some of the dispenser's operational elements in isolation. Shown are a source water storage tank 1010, a filtered water storage tank 1012 and a filter system 810 housed in a frame 1016. A first flow subsystem is defined by water conduit 1018 leading to engagement element 1014 engaged with the upper end of filter element 1600 the bottom outlet of which is fitted in a fluid-tight manner with an inlet to tank 1012. Engagement element 1014 is substantially similar to engagement element 226 and the manner of its engagement is also similar. Thus, the reader is referred to the above description of element 226 for explanation of the function and structure of engagement element 1014. Similarly, the mode of engagement of the outlet from filter element 1600 and the valving arrangement of the tank inlet is similar to that described in connection with the embodiment of Figs. 1-7, in particular with reference to Figs. 6B and 6C, and the reader is referred to the above description for understanding the structure and function thereof. Figs. 11A-11C show the filter replacement mechanism 810, housed in frame 1016, in the closed position, while flap 820 having been removed from Fig. 11C to show its latching arrangement. Flap 820 is hinged to the frame by hinge 1020 and can be pivotally displaced about the hinge into the open position as shown in Figs. 12A- 12D. Flap 820 has a lever portion 1022 which is linked in a pivotal manner at 1024 with beam 1026 which is hinged at 1028 with activation element 1030. Activation element is biased by biasing spring 1032 in the direction of arrow 1034 (clockwise in the side elevation shown in Fig. 11B). The lever portion 1022, the beam 1026, the activation element 1030 and the other elements associated therewith, to be described further below, have symmetrical counterparts at the other side of the frame. As can be seen in Fig. llC protruding out of the front face of frame 1016 are a pair of latching teeth 1040 each of which can reciprocate in a groove 1042 between the shown latching state and a releasing state in which the teeth are in the other extreme end of groove 1042. Teeth 1040 are linked to and being displaceable by sliding element 1044 which is fitted in a flanking manner over strut 1046 and is slidable along the strut's axis between two extreme positions limited by the displacement of teeth 1040 within grooves 1042. Sliding element has integral projecting member 1048 and is biased into the latching state (the rightmost position in Fig. 11C) by a biasing spring (not shown). Solenoid 1050 is provided and is configured to push member 1048 so as to transiently displace sliding element 1044 into the releasing state to thereby permit opening of lap 820 into the open position shown in Figs. 12A-12D, where the flap lies in a substantially horizontal orientation.

Upon release of the flap and its opening, which is propelled by the biasing force of biasing spring 1032, activation element 1030 rotates in the direction of arrow 1034, whereupon tooth 1036 causes the angular displacement of tray restraining mechanism by engaging with its tip 1038 which then enables forward sliding movement of tray element 1200, in a manner to be described below.

As can be seen, activation element 1030, which rotates about axis 1060, has a cogged wheel portion 1062 which is engaged with a restraining cogged wheel 1064, which is fitted with a friction element to thereby dampen rapid displacement and provide for smooth displacement of the flap from its closed to its open state.

Tray element 1200 as can best be seen in Fig. 13, has a front portion 1210 with an opening 1212 adapted to receive a filter element 1600. Tray element 1200 is restrained into a rear position by tray latching arrangement 1070 which includes a beam 1072 and is pivotally linked to frame 1016 at 1074 and is downwardly biased by biasing spring 1076. When tooth 1036 hits the tip 1038 of latching arrangement 1070, it is transiently pivotally displaced about 1074 whereupon beam 1072 is slightly elevated. Beam 1072 is configured with a groove (not shown) which cooperates with a matching projection at the rear end of tray element 1200 to thereby restrain tray element 1200 in that position against the a forward bias by a constant-force biasing element (not shown) to the open position shown in Figs. 12A-12D. Thus, upon elevation of beam 1072, following opening of flap 820, tray element 1200 is released to move forward into the open position.

As can be seen in Figs. 11A through Fig. 13, tray element 1200 is provided with a cogged track 1080 at its bottom which is engaged with a restraining cogged wheel 1310, shown in Fig. 13, which dampens the movement and provides a smooth forward movement of the tray element 1200.

Laterally projecting at the front end of the rear portion 1214 of the tray element, is a pin 1220, as shown in Figs. 12C and 12D. Pin 1220 is accommodated in channel 1232 and can vertically move within this channel. Pin 1220 is coupled to a latching element that latches the front portion 1210 of tray element 1200 in the horizontal orientation in which it is flush with the remainder of the tray element, which is the orientation that can be seen in Figs. 12A-12D. Front portion 1210 is, however, biased by a biasing spring (not shown) into a forward orientation shown in Figs. 14 and 15. Downward displacement of the pin thus releases the forward portion 1210 to change its orientation to a forwardly tilted one.

Guiding element 1230 abuts internally from frame 1016 and thus defines, by its bottom face, a guiding track 1232 for pin 1220. When the tray element moves in the forward direction, pin 120 hits bottom end 1230 and consequently is pushed downward during said forward movement between points A and B defined by element 1230 to thereby release the forward portion 1210 to forwardly tilt. The abutment defined by element 1230 is only between points A and B and between points B and C there is a gradual inward bend such that forward to point C element 1230 is flush with the surrounding portions of the internal face of the frame 1016. Pin 1220 has also some lateral slack and when hitting element 1230 at point C in its return, rearward direction it is pushed inward by the sloping surface between points C and B and is not downwardly displaced as in the case of the forward movement.

In the fully open position where the front portion 1210 is forwardly tilted, as can be seen in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, and also in Fig. 9, the filter element can be inspected or replaced.

Fig. 16Ato Fig. 16C show a filter element of the kind used in the above illustrated embodiments of the water dispenser. Filter element 1600, has an overall cylindrical shape with abutments 1614 and 1616 on its side which guide its proper placement into the filter receptacle. Formed at its top end 1620, is a depression 1610 having a perforated bottom end 1622 that permits water entry into the filter's interior. Provided at the bottom is a central filtered water outlet 1630 surrounded by engaging members 1632 for engagement with a filtered tank inlet.

Shown at the center of the filter's top end depression is a lifespan indicator 1640. Such a lifespan indicator is disclosed in PCT Application No. WO2011/030340, which is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A beverage dispenser, comprising:

beverage supply source;

beverage dispensing outlet;

flow system leading from said source to said outlet;

receptacle for receiving a removable filter element and for functionally disposing it in the flow system; and

filter replacement mechanism for replacement of the filter element, the mechanism having a first and a second state and switchable between the two states; in the first state a filter received in said receptacle is operationally engaged with engagement elements of the flow system and in the second state said filter element is disengaged from said engagement elements and accessible to a user for removal or replacement; the switching from one of said states to another being through a user- activated actuation mechanism.

2. The dispenser of claim 1 , wherein the beverage is water.

3. The dispenser of claim 1 or 2, wherein the beverage is gravitationally propelled through the filter element.

4. The dispenser of claim 3, comprising: a source beverage tank; a filtered beverage storage tank; a first flow sub-system leading from said source tank to said storage tank, a filter element being functionally disposed in said first flow-subsystem; a second flow sub-system comprising at least one pump for propelling filtered beverage from said storage tank to said outlet.

5. The dispenser of any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or both of a beverage cooling system and a beverage heating system for respective cooling or heating the beverage to be dispensed out of said outlet.

6. The dispenser of any one of the preceding claims, comprising:

a displaceable filter element receptacle, displaceable between a closed and an open position corresponding to the first and second states, respectively, and being biased into the open position; and

a restraining mechanism for holding said receptacle in the closed position; said restraining mechanism being configured to release said receptacle upon actuation of said actuation mechanism, whereupon the receptacle is displaced to the open position.

7. The dispenser of claims 6, wherein said receptacle is pivotally displaceable between the open and closed positions.

8. The dispenser of claim 6 or 7, wherein said receptacle is linked to a flap that is displaced therewith between a closed state in which the flap constitutes an element of the dispenser's external features and an open state corresponding to said closed and open positions of said receptacle, respectively.

9. The dispenser of any one of claims 6 to 8, comprising:

a user-accessible handle element pivotally displaceable between a first orientation and a second orientation to actuate the filter element replacement system between its first and second states, respectively; and

an engagement element adapted for engagement with an upper end of the filter element in a fluid-tight manner that is substantially vertically displaceable between an engaged and disengaged state and being so displaceable by the respective displacement of the handle element between the respective first orientation and second orientation.

10. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the engagement element has an opening at its upper end linked to a flexible liquid conduit element and an open bottom end with a downward projecting circumferential wall and a skirt portion peripheral thereto; said wall dimensioned to fit into a depression formed in a top end of a filter element with perforations at a bottom wall thereof for liquid ingress into the filter's interior and to form, jointly with the skirt portion a fluid-tight engagement with said depression.

11. The dispenser of claim 9, wherein the engagement element comprises one or more elastomeric members for forming said fluid-tight engagement.

12. The dispenser of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the filter element received in said receptacle has a substantially cylindrical form with top and bottom ends; the top end comprises a depression surrounded by walls extending down from an upper face of said filter element, the depression having a bottom wall with perforations for liquid ingress into the filter's interior; the bottom end of said filter has at least one opening for liquid egress.

13. The dispenser of claim 12, comprising an inlet port at a top end of filtered beverage storage tank situated below the filter receptacle, said opening configured for engagement with an engagement portion at the bottom end of the filter element, once said filter replacement mechanism is in said first state such that liquid egressing from the filter enters the tank.

14. The dispenser of claim 13, wherein said opening is fitted with a valve element for closing the opening upon switching said filter replacement mechanism from said first state to said second state.

15. The dispenser of claim 14, wherein said opening is surrounded by a downwardly- inclined surface element for draining non-filtered beverage.

16. The dispenser of claim 15, further comprising a glass support and spill collector element.

17. The dispenser of claim 16, wherein said glass support and spill collector element comprises a grid element, a spill collector, a float and an opening, wherein said opening is in fluid-communication with the downwardly-inclined surface element for draining non-filtered beverage into said spill collector.

18. The dispenser of claim 17, wherein said glass support and spill collector element is engaged with the dispenser by a snap- fit engagement.

19. The dispenser of any one of the preceding claims comprising a frame that holds said receptacle and said replacement mechanism.

20. The dispenser of claim 6 or 7, wherein the displacement of the receptacle is reciprocal along a substantially horizontal linear path between a closed, retracted position in which the receptacle is housed in the dispenser and an open, extended position in which the receptacle is exposed to permit replacement of the filter element.

21. The dispenser of claim 20, wherein the receptacle has an opening defined in a tray element configured to receive the filter element.

22. The dispenser of claim 21, wherein said opening is configured in a front portion of the tray element, said front portion being pivotally linked to a rear portion of the tray element and rotatable about an axis normal to said linear path between a horizontal orientation and a forward titled orientation and biased into the latter orientation; said front portion being restrained in the horizontal orientation and being released to rotate into the forwarded tilted orientation upon the tray element reaching the open position.

23. The dispenser of claim 22, comprising:

a restraining mechanism for holding said front portion in said horizontal orientation; said mechanism comprising a sideward projecting pin that can reciprocate between a restraining position in which said mechanism restrains said front portion in the horizontal orientation and a releasing position in which said front portion is released to rotate into the forwarded tilted orientation, the pin being biased into its restraining position; and

a pin guiding element that is configured to guide the pin to displace from its restraining to its releasing position during the tray's forward displacement from the closed to the open position to thereby release said front portion to rotate into its forward tilted orientation, said guiding element being configured not to displace the pin during the tray's reciprocal displacement from the open to the closed position.

24. The dispenser of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the tray element is biased into the open position by a tray element biasing arrangement.

25. The dispenser of claim 24, comprising a tray latching arrangement for restraining the tray element in a closed position and for releasing the tray element to permit its displacement into the open position in the second state of the dispenser.

26. The dispenser of any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein the tray element biasing arrangement is configured to provide substantially equal force throughout the movement of the tray element from the closed to the open position.

27. The dispenser of any one of claims 21 to 26, comprising a tray element movement dampening arrangement to impart smooth movement of tray element from its closed to its open position.

28. The dispenser of any one of claims 20 to 27, comprising a user-actuatable mechanical element operable to actuate the filter element replacement mechanism to switch from its first to its second state.

29. The dispenser of any of claims 20 to 28, comprising a flap moveable between a closed state in which it defines an element of the dispenser's external features, and an open state corresponding to said first and second states, respectively.

30. The dispenser of claim 29, wherein the move between the closed and the open states is through a change in orientation.

31. The dispenser of claim 30, wherein in the open state said flap is in a substantially horizontal orientation in a plane below that defined by the tray element and the move into that orientation is through a downward rotation about an axis below the plane defined by the tray element.

32. The dispenser of claim 31, comprising: a biasing arrangement for biasing said flap into the open state;

a flap latching arrangement having a stable state in which it latches the flap and restrains it in its closed state and having a transient state for releasing the flap to permit its movement into the open state; the flap latching being biased into said stable state;

an actuation element operable to switch said flap latching arrangement from its stable to the transient state;

a tray element latching arrangement having a stable state in which it latches the tray element and restrains it in its closed position and having a transient state for releasing the tray element to permit its displacement into the open position; the tray element latching arrangement being biased into the table state; and

a flap-linked actuation element configured to switch said tray element latching arrangement from its stable to its transient state when the flap has moved at least partially towards its open state.

33. The dispenser of claim 32, wherein the switch back into the first state is by one or both of (i) pushing the tray element back into its closed position, and (ii) forcing the flap to move into its closed state.

34. The dispenser of claim 32 or 33, comprising an engagement element adapted for engagement with an upper end of the filter element in a fluid-tight manner that is induced to substantially vertically displace between an engaged and disengaged state by the movement of the flap between its closed and open states.

35. The dispenser of any one of claims 20 to 31, comprising an engagement element adapted for engagement with an upper end of the filter element in a fluid-tight manner that is substantially vertically displaceable between an engaged and disengaged state in the respective said first and said second state.

36. The dispenser of claim 35, wherein the engagement element is generally axisymmetrical with an opening at its upper end linked to a flexible liquid conduit element and an open bottom end with a downward projecting cylindrical wall and a skirt portion peripheral thereto; said cylindrical wall dimensioned to fit into an axisymmetrical depression formed in a top end of a filter element with perforations at a bottom wall thereof for liquid ingress into the filter's interior and to form, jointly with the skirt portion a fluid-tight engagement with said depression.

37. The dispenser of claim 36, wherein the engagement element comprises one or more elastomeric members for forming said fluid-tight engagement.

38. The dispenser of any of claims 34 to 37, comprising a flexible liquid conduit segment linking said engagement element with the flow system.

39. The dispenser of any one of claims 20 to 37, wherein the filter element received in said receptacle has a substantially cylindrical form with top and bottom ends; the top end comprising an axisymmetrical depression surrounded by walls extending down from an upper face of the filter element, the depression having a bottom wall with perforations for liquid ingress into the filter's interior; the bottom end of said filter has at least one opening for liquid egress.

40. The dispenser of claim 39, comprising an opening at a top end of filtered beverage storage tank situated below the filter receptacle, said opening configured for engagement with an engagement portion at the bottom end of the filter element, once said filter replacement mechanism is in said first state such that liquid egressing from the filter enters the tank.

41. The dispenser of claim 40, wherein said opening is fitted with a valve element for closing the opening upon switching said filter replacement mechanism from said first state to said second state.

42. The dispenser of claim 41, wherein said opening is surrounded by a downwardly- inclined surface element for draining non-filtered beverage.

43. The dispenser of any one of claims 20 to 42, comprising a filter mechanism frame that holds said receptacle and said replacement mechanism.

44. The dispenser of claim 1, further comprising an initiation pump that pumps beverage into the filter for initial wetting of said filter after its replacement.

45. A beverage dispenser, comprising:

beverage supply source;

beverage dispensing outlet;

filter element for filtering the beverage;

a source beverage tank, a filtered beverage storage tank and a first flow subsystem leading from said source tank to said outlet through the filter element which is disposed is said first flow sub-system; and

an initiation mechanism for initial wetting of said filter after its replacement.

46. The dispenser of claim 45, wherein the initiation mechanism comprises an initiation pump.

47. The dispenser of claim 45 or 46, wherein the initiation mechanism is operated automatically upon detection of a replaced filter, or manually by the user after filter replacement.

48. The dispenser of any one of claims 45 to 47, comprising a second flow subsystem comprising at least one pump for propelling the filtered beverage from said storage tank to said outlet.

49. The dispense of any one of claims 46, wherein the initiation pump is has an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port being associated with the first flow sub-system via a valve, the outlet port being in flow-communication with the filter element.

50. The dispenser of any one of claims 45 to 49, wherein the beverage is water.

51. A method for initiating a gravitational filter in a beverage dispenser, comprising:

activating an initiation pump to pump an initiation quantity of beverage into a filter to be initiated.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein said activation is automatic upon replacement of said filter element, or is operated manually by the user after filter replacement.

53. A beverage dispenser comprising a glass support and spill collector element, said element comprises a spill receptacle having a rear member adapted for engagement with an accommodating recess defined in the front the dispenser.

54. The beverage dispenser of claim 53, wherein said rear member snap-fits into said recess.

55. The beverage dispenser of claim 53 or 54, comprising an upper grill member permitting drainage of spill into said receptacle.

56. The beverage dispenser of any one of claims 53 to 55, comprising an indicator float for providing a visual indication of when said receptacle is full.

57. The beverage dispenser of any one of claims 53 to 56, wherein the rear end of the collector element is adapted for collecting liquid spilled internally within the dispenser.

58. The beverage dispenser of claim 57, wherein said rear end has an opening situated below a front end of a downwardly inclined spill-directing surface formed within the dispenser.

59. The dispenser of any one of claims 53 to 58, wherein the beverage is water.

60. A beverage dispenser, comprising: beverage supply source;

beverage dispensing outlet;

filter element for filtering the beverage;

a removable source beverage tank having an opening at its bottom, said opening being associated with a valve operable to automatically seal the opening upon removal of the tank;

a filtered beverage storage tank; and

a flow system leading from said source tank to said outlet through said valve and the filter element which is disposed is said flow system.

61. The dispenser of claim 60, comprising one or both of a beverage cooling system and a beverage heating system for respective cooling or heating the beverage to be dispensed out of said outlet.

62. The dispenser of claim 60 or 61, comprising a filter replacement mechanism for replacement of the filter element, the mechanism having a first and a second state and switchable between the two states; in the first state a filter received in said receptacle is operationally engaged with engagement elements of the flow system and in the second state said filter element is disengaged from said engagement elements and accessible to a user for removal or replacement; the switching from one of said states to another being through a user- activated actuation mechanism.

63. The dispenser of claim 62, comprising: a displaceable filter element receptacle, displaceable between a closed and an open position corresponding to the first and second states, respectively, and being biased into the open position.

64. The dispenser of claim 63, comprising a restraining mechanism for holding said receptacle in the closed position; said restraining mechanism being configured to release said receptacle upon actuation of said actuation mechanism, whereupon the receptacle is displaced to the open position.

65. The dispenser of claims 64, wherein said receptacle is pivotally displaceable between the open and closed positions.

66. The dispenser of claim 65, wherein said receptacle is linked to a flap that is displaced therewith between a closed state in which the flap constitutes an element of the dispenser's external features and an open state corresponding to said closed and open positions of said receptacle, respectively.

67. The dispenser of any one of claims 60 to 66, wherein the beverage is water.