AU2015246079A1 - A portable fluid dispensing unit - Google Patents

Abstract

A PORTABLE FLUID DISPENSING UNIT A portable fluid dispensing unit (1) for dispensing fluid, the unit (1) comprising: a body (3) having a fluid supply inlet (5) and a fluid supply outlet (7), the fluid supply inlet (5) receiving the flow of fluid from a fluid supply (9); a fluid supply conduit (11) connecting the fluid supply inlet (5) and the fluid supply outlet (7) to allow fluid to flow therebetween; a fluid dispensing fixture (13) configured to dispense fluid; and a fluid supply branch (15) providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit (11) and the fluid dispensing fixture (13), wherein the fluid supply outlet (7) is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet (5) of a further unit (1) for supplying fluid thereto, and wherein a series of adjacent units (1) form a portable fluid dispensing system (67). 21o9 42-

Description

1 A PORTABLE FLUID DISPENSING UNIT FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to fluid dispensing units and in particular to portable outdoor water dispensers. BACKGROUND [0002] Known outdoor water dispensers include taps, showers and drinking fountains. These are typically fixed to the ground, plumbed into a mains water supply and exist as standalone units. Once installed, any modifications to these fixed units can be complicated and costly. The number of these units is also limited in outdoor public areas and this can be problematic particularly during large-scale outdoor events, due to the increased demand for the supply of clean, free water. Fixed units are also susceptible to vandalism and need to be maintained by councils. [0003] Referring to outdoor events, for example, it is essential to have an adequate supply of water for drinking and washing, especially during warmer conditions where heat exhaustion and dehydration is prevalent. If the supply of water is inadequate or altogether unavailable, patrons at these events are often advised to either bring their own water supply or purchase bottled water. However, this again presents a problem when it comes to replenishing the supply of water, or in situations where water is required for cleaning and washing. Often the liability is within the event organizer to supply water to patrons. [0004] As described above, the known types of outdoor water dispensers are typically fixed at one location and thus cannot be modified or easily adapted to suit different conditions. Any other known types of dispensers need to be transported in a trailer, are built as part of a trailer, or require equipment to move them around and thus are not entirely portable. There are no known types of water dispensers that have expandable modular systems that connect together and that can easily be assembled and disassembled. [0005] Hygiene issues can also arise from airborne pollutants and also from the transfer of bacteria between different users. There is a significant cost to maintain such units in a clean and 2 sanitary state. This is also the case with soap dispensers, air hand dryers and other types of dispensers. [0006] Accordingly, there is a need to address the above by providing portable fluid dispensing units and systems that are light enough to be lifted by an individual, can fit in a standard vehicle, and can be connected to further units, and a water reservoir or the like, such that the amount of fluid supplied is always sufficient regardless of demand. OBJECT [0007] It is the object of the present invention to substantially overcome or at least ameliorate one or more of the above disadvantages, or at least provide a useful alternative. SUMMARY [0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a portable fluid dispensing unit for dispensing fluid, the unit comprising: a body having a fluid supply inlet and a fluid supply outlet, the fluid supply inlet receiving the flow of fluid from a fluid supply; a fluid supply conduit connecting the fluid supply inlet and the fluid supply outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween; a fluid dispensing fixture configured to dispense fluid; and a fluid supply branch providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture, wherein the fluid supply outlet is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet of a further unit for supplying fluid thereto, and wherein a series of adjacent units form a portable fluid dispensing system. [0009] Preferably, the body comprises a plurality of parts configured to form a plurality of shapes, the parts including customisable joiner lengths and corner parts. [0010] Preferably, the plurality of parts are attached to each other using customizable locking pieces.

3 [0011] Preferably, the unit further comprises: a fluid drain; a fluid drain inlet and a fluid drain outlet; a fluid drain conduit connecting the fluid drain inlet and the fluid drain outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween; and a fluid drain branch providing a connection between the fluid drain and the fluid drain conduit. [0012] Preferably, the fluid drain outlet is configured to connect to the fluid drain inlet of a further unit for draining fluid thereto. [0013] Preferably, the body further comprises at least one window to accommodate a container received from either side of the body. [0014] Preferably, the fluid is water. [0015] Preferably, the window has the shape of a bottle. [0016] Preferably, the window is separable into at least two halves. [0017] Preferably, the fluid supply branch comprises a fluid filter, a fluid restrictor and a fluid meter connected in series between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture. [0018] Preferably, the body further comprises removable front and rear panels to display advertising or signage. [0019] Preferably, the unit further comprises a stand that is removably connectable to the base of the body. [0020] Preferably, the body further comprises at least one actuator configured to activate the flow of fluid from the fluid dispensing fixture. [0021] Preferably, the at least one actuator is a push-button tap.

4 [0022] Preferably, the at least one actuator is positioned on the top, front or either side of the body. [0023] Preferably, the body is mounted onto an existing wall or structure from the side, back or base of the unit. [0024] Preferably, the unit further comprises a carry bag for transporting or storing the unit. [0025] Preferably, the unit further comprises at least one accessory selected from a group comprising taps, showers, dog bowls, signage and lighting. [0026] Preferably, the lighting is powered by solar or water flow generation. [0027] Preferably, the unit further comprises a transmitting beacon located inside the body. [0028] Preferably, the unit further comprises location and proximity sensors. [0029] Preferably, the unit further comprises an accelerometer. [0030] Preferably, the front and rear panels are illuminated. [0031] Preferably, the unit further comprises a display panel to convey information relating to fluid flow and fluid quality. [0032] Preferably, the unit further comprises a base plate adapted to receive anthropometric data from a user. [0033] Preferably, the at least one actuator is a motion sensor. [0034] Preferably, wherein the at least one actuator is a foot-operated button. [0035] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a portable fluid dispensing system comprising: two or more portable fluid dispensing units for dispensing fluid, each unit comprising: 5 a body having a fluid supply inlet and a fluid supply outlet, the fluid supply inlet receiving the flow of fluid from a fluid supply; a fluid supply conduit connecting the fluid supply inlet and the fluid supply outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween, a fluid dispensing fixture configured to dispense fluid; and a fluid supply branch providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture, wherein the fluid supply outlet is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet of a further unit for supplying fluid thereto, and wherein the units are connected in series to allow fluid to flow therebetween. [0036] Preferably, the means of connecting the units comprises press-on fittings and flexible tubing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0037] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: [0038] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a portable fluid dispensing unit in a first embodiment; [0039] Figures 2A to 2D are front, left side, right side and top views of the portable fluid dispensing unit shown in Figure 1; [0040] Figure 3 is a schematic view of the plumbing configuration of the portable fluid dispensing unit show in Figure 1; [0041] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the portable fluid dispensing unit shown in Figure 1; [0042] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the portable fluid dispensing unit shown in Figure 1; [0043] Figures 6A to 6E and 7A to 7D are front views of different shape configurations of portable fluid dispensing units of embodiments of the present invention; 6 [0044] Figures 8A to 8C is a front and side view of a number of mounting options for portable fluid dispensing units; [0045] Figures 9 and 10 are front views of the portable fluid dispensing unit with optional accessories; [0046] Figure 11 to 14 are schematic views of different plumbing configurations of portable fluid dispensing units; and [0047] Figures 15 to 17 are front views of different portable fluid dispensing systems of embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [0048] Figures I to 5 show a portable fluid dispensing unit 1 of an embodiment of the present invention. The unit 1 comprises a body 3 having a fluid supply inlet 5 and a fluid supply outlet 7. The fluid supply inlet 5 receives a flow of fluid from a fluid supply 9. In a preferred form, the fluid would be water. However, it will be appreciated any fluid could be used, for example, a liquid or gas. The unit 1 further comprises a fluid supply conduit 11 connecting the fluid supply inlet 5 and the fluid supply outlet 7 to allow fluid to flow therebetween. [0049] The unit 1 further comprises a fluid dispensing fixture 13, for example a nozzle configured to dispense fluid and a fluid supply branch 15 providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit 11 and the fluid dispensing fixture 13. The fluid supply outlet 7 is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet 5 of a further unit for supplying fluid thereto. A series of adjacent units 1 form a portable fluid dispensing system. [0050] The unit further comprises a fluid drain 17, a fluid drain inlet 19 and a fluid drain outlet 21, and a fluid drain conduit 23 connecting the fluid drain inlet 19 and the fluid drain outlet 21 to allow fluid to flow therebetween. The unit further comprises a fluid drain branch 25 providing a connection between the fluid drain 19 and the fluid drain conduit 23. The fluid drain outlet 21 is configured to connect to the fluid drain inlet 19 of a further unit or an exiting drain or gutter for draining fluid thereto.

7 [0051] In a preferred form, each of the fluid supply inlet 5, the fluid supply outlet 7, the fluid drain inlet 19 and the fluid drain outlet 21 comprises a stop valve, for example a spring-loaded check or shut-off valve. This allows for the control of pressurised or unpressurised fluid flow through the fluid supply conduit 11 and fluid drain conduit 23 when the inlets or outlets are not in use. [0052] The body 3 further comprises at least one window 26 through the body 3 to accommodate a bottle or container received from either side of the body 3. The window 26 has the shape of a tapered bottle and can be separated into at least two halves 26a, 26b. The tapered bottle shape of the window 26 protects the mouths of water bottles from coming in contact with the unit, thus reducing hygiene issues. The base of the window 26 includes the fluid drain 17, positioned below the fluid dispensing fixture 13 to receive any fluid overflow. [0053] The fluid supply branch 15 further comprises a fluid filter 28, a fluid restrictor 30, and a fluid meter 32 connected in series between the fluid supply conduit 11 and the fluid dispensing fixture 13. [0054] The body 3 further comprises a plurality of parts configured to form a plurality of shapes. The plurality of parts includes joiner lengths 34 and corner parts 36 that are customizable to allow for shape and size modifications to the body 3. For example, the unit 1 can be extended in width and/or height and/or depth, or can have multiple fluid dispensing fixtures 13 to suit the requirements. [0055] The joiner lengths 34 can include an access panel 35 in any position. The ends of the corner parts 36 comprise one or more tabs that can accommodate grub screws or the like, as means of attaching the joiner lengths 34 and corner parts 36 to one another. The screws are not visible from the exterior of the unit 1. [0056] The body 3 further comprises removable front and rear panels 38, 40 adapted to display advertising or signage. The panels 38, 40 slide into a grooves moulded into the joiner lengths 34, thus no screw fixings are required to attach the panels. The advertising or signage may be digital, for example LED or LCD graphic panels that are illuminated. The panels 38, 40 can have a through hole to accommodate the window 26 such that the at least two halves of the window 26a, 26b will hold the panels 38, 40 in place. The unit 1 can further comprise a display 8 panel to convey information relating to fluid flow and fluid quality. Multiple units 1 connected to one another can form a large advertising wall and barricade system. [0057] The body 3 further comprises a stand 42 that is removably connectable to the base of the body 3 to provide support for the unit. The body further comprises a first actuator 44 and a second actuator 45 configured to convey the flow of fluid from the fluid supply conduit 11 to the fluid dispensing fixture 13. The actuators 44, 45 are in the form of a push-button tap and can be positioned on the top, front or either side of the body 3 to allow for ease of access depending on the user's position. For example, a push-button tap located on the side of the body 3 allows the use of the unit by a child or a person in a wheelchair. [0058] Advantageously, the unit 1 is configured to connect to a further unit and thus provides an interconnecting fluid dispensing system. The system requires only one fluid supply source (for example an existing mains water tap or a reservoir such as a water truck or the like) connected to a first unit, which in turn directs the supply of fluid from one unit to the next. The unit 1 is also flexible in design, as multiple fluid inlets 5 and outlets 7 can be added depending on what the requirements are. [0059] Figures 6 and 7 show embodiments of the portable fluid dispensing unit 1 having a body 3 with different shape and size configurations adapted. Referring to Figure 6E and 7C, examples of one body 3 having multiple windows 26 are shown. Advantageously, within each body 3 having multiple windows 26, there are multiple access points for more than one user. [0060] Referring to Figure 8, various embodiments of the portable fluid dispensing unit 1 could further comprise a mounting bracket 47 to attach the unit 1 to an existing wall or structure. For example, Figure 8B shows the unit attached to the ground via a base mounting bracket 47. Advantageously, the unit 1 is designed to accommodate all types of mounting options as the location of the mounting brackets 47 is interchangeable to suit the requirements. [0061] In another embodiment, the unit 1 does not have to be permanently mounted to any structure and will still exist as a functioning portable fluid dispenser. The unit 1 can further comprise a carry bag (not shown) with handles for transporting the unit. The carry bag can be secured or locked to the unit as a protective cover when the unit is not in use.

9 [0062] Figure 9 and 10 show different embodiments of the portable fluid dispensing unit 1', 1" further comprising add-on fixtures or accessories such as a shower head 49 or a water tap 51. The unit can accommodate other types of add-on fixtures or accessories such as clip-on signage or dog bowls. Some add-on fixtures or accessories can be interconnected to the plumbing system of the unit 1. In alternative embodiments, the unit 1 can further comprise a base plate adapted to receive anthropometric data from a user. [0063] Figure 11 shows another plumbing configuration within the portable fluid dispensing unit 1 in one embodiment, further comprising an in-line generator 53 to provide power to the battery 55 when fluid flows through the unit. In this embodiment, the unit further comprises a lighting element 57 such as an LED or light bulb to illuminate the front and rear panels 38, 40. [0064] The unit 1 further comprises a light sensor or switch 59 to activate the lighting element 57 when the unit is in use. The lighting element 57 can also be incorporated into any of the fluid inlets 5, fluid outlets 7 or fluid dispensing fixtures 13 to illuminate the fluid stream. [0065] The unit 1 further comprises a transmitting beacon 61, for example a Bluetooth or RFID transmitter that can be connected to the battery 55 or run on its own power. The unit 1 further comprises a solar panel 63 to provide power to charge the battery 55. [0066] Another example of the plumbing configuration within the portable fluid dispensing unit 1 is shown in Figure 12, where like reference numerals in relation to the unit denote like components. In this embodiment, the actuator is a motion sensor tap 65 powered by the battery 55. In alternative embodiments, the actuator is a foot-operated button. [0067] Referring to Figures 13 and 14, the plumbing configuration of the unit 1 in different embodiments may further comprise multiple fluid dispensing fixtures 13', 13"and multiple actuators 44', 44" in the same unit. [0068] Figure 15 shows an embodiment of a portable fluid dispensing system 67 comprising three portable fluid dispensing units 1 connected in series with one another by means of flexible tubing 69. The flexible tubing 69 may be a flexible fresh water hose or a flexible drain water hose. The fluid supply inlet 5 of the first unit receives the flow of fluid from the fluid supply 9. The fluid supply outlet 7 of the unit subsequently directs the flow of fluid into the fluid supply 10 inlet 5 of the second unit. Fluid will also drain from the fluid drain outlet 21 of the first unit to the fluid drain inlet 19 of the second unit. The same applies for the third unit. [0069] Advantageously, the flexible connections allow for a greater variation in the formation of the units as they do not have to be in a straight line. Multiple units connected together can also create a form of crowd control i.e. a barricade or wall system. [0070] In an alternative embodiment, the portable fluid dispensing system 67 may comprise a fluid supply 9 connected to the fluid supply inlet 5 of one unit and the fluid supply outlet 7 of a further unit. The flow of fluid is bidirectional so that the fluid supply 9 can be connected to the fluid supply inlet 5 or the fluid supply outlet 9 on either side of a unit 1. In an alternative embodiment, the portable fluid dispensing system 67 may comprise a water bubbler 71 between the first and third portable fluid dispensing units 1. Advantageously, the system 67 is non directional in its connections, thus allowing for greater flexibility in access points. [0071] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims (29)

1. A portable fluid dispensing unit for dispensing fluid, the unit comprising: a body having a fluid supply inlet and a fluid supply outlet, the fluid supply inlet receiving the flow of fluid from a fluid supply; a fluid supply conduit connecting the fluid supply inlet and the fluid supply outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween; a fluid dispensing fixture configured to dispense fluid; and a fluid supply branch providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture, wherein the fluid supply outlet is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet of a further unit for supplying fluid thereto, and wherein a series of adjacent units form a portable fluid dispensing system.

2. The unit according to claim 1, wherein the body comprises a plurality of parts configured to form a plurality of shapes, the parts including customisable joiner lengths and corner parts.

3. The unit according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of parts are attached to each other using customizable locking pieces.

4. The unit according any one of the preceding claims, further comprising: a fluid drain; a fluid drain inlet and a fluid drain outlet; a fluid drain conduit connecting the fluid drain inlet and the fluid drain outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween; and a fluid drain branch providing a connection between the fluid drain and the fluid drain conduit.

5. The unit according to claim 5, wherein the fluid drain outlet is configured to connect to the fluid drain inlet of a further unit for draining fluid thereto. 12

6. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body further comprises at least one window to accommodate a container received from either side of the body.

7. The unit according to claim 6, wherein the window has the shape of a bottle.

8. The unit according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the window is separable into at least two halves.

9. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid is water.

10. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid supply branch comprises a fluid filter, a fluid restrictor and a fluid meter connected in series between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture.

11. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body further comprises removable front and rear panels to display advertising or signage.

12. The unit according to claim 11, wherein the front and rear panels are illuminated.

13. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a stand that is removably connectable to a base of the body.

14. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body further comprises at least one actuator configured to activate the flow of fluid from the fluid dispensing fixture.

15. The unit according to claim 14, wherein the at least one actuator is a push-button tap.

16. The unit according to claim 14, wherein the at least one actuator is a motion sensor.

17. The unit according to claim 14, wherein the at least one actuator is a foot-operated button. 13

18. The unit according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the at least one actuator is positioned on the top, front or either side of the body.

19. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the body is mounted onto an existing wall or structure from the side, back or base of the unit.

20. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a carry bag for transporting or storing the unit.

21. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one accessory selected from a group comprising taps, showers, dog bowls, signage and lighting.

22. The unit according to claim 21, wherein the lighting is powered by solar or water flow generation.

23. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a transmitting beacon located inside the body.

24. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising location and proximity sensors.

25. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an accelerometer.

26. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a display panel to convey information relating to fluid flow and fluid quality.

27. The unit according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a base plate adapted to receive anthropometric data from a user. 14

28. A portable fluid dispensing system comprising: two or more portable fluid dispensing units for dispensing fluid, each unit comprising: a body having a fluid supply inlet and a fluid supply outlet, the fluid supply inlet receiving the flow of fluid from a fluid supply; a fluid supply conduit connecting the fluid supply inlet and the fluid supply outlet to allow fluid to flow therebetween, a fluid dispensing fixture configured to dispense fluid; and a fluid supply branch providing a connection between the fluid supply conduit and the fluid dispensing fixture, wherein the fluid supply outlet is configured to connect to the fluid supply inlet of a further unit for supplying fluid thereto, and wherein the units are connected in series to allow fluid to flow therebetween.

29. The system according to claim 28, wherein the means of connecting the units comprises press-on fittings and flexible tubing. Products and Things Pty Ltd Patent Attorneys for the Applicant/Nominated Person SPRUSON & FERGUSON