WO1994020784A1 - Dispenser for hot and cold water - Google Patents

Dispenser for hot and cold water Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1994020784A1
WO1994020784A1 PCT/AU1994/000095 AU9400095W WO9420784A1 WO 1994020784 A1 WO1994020784 A1 WO 1994020784A1 AU 9400095 W AU9400095 W AU 9400095W WO 9420784 A1 WO9420784 A1 WO 9420784A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
filter
water
tap
dispenser
outlet
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU1994/000095
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
James Anthony Mckay
Lynton John Mckay
Original Assignee
Sheringham Investments Pty. Ltd.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sheringham Investments Pty. Ltd. filed Critical Sheringham Investments Pty. Ltd.
Priority to AU62550/94A priority Critical patent/AU6255094A/en
Publication of WO1994020784A1 publication Critical patent/WO1994020784A1/en

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Classifications

    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03CDOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01DSEPARATION
    • B01D35/00Filtering devices having features not specifically covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D33/00, or for applications not specifically covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D33/00; Auxiliary devices for filtration; Filter housing constructions
    • B01D35/14Safety devices specially adapted for filtration; Devices for indicating clogging
    • B01D35/143Filter condition indicators
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03CDOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • E03C1/0411Taps specially designed for dispensing boiling water
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03CDOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • E03C1/044Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths having a heating or cooling apparatus in the supply line
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24DDOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
    • F24D17/00Domestic hot-water supply systems
    • F24D17/02Domestic hot-water supply systems using heat pumps
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67DDISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00028Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00099Temperature control
    • B67D2210/00118Heating and cooling
    • EFIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03CDOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C2201/00Details, devices or methods not otherwise provided for
    • E03C2201/40Arrangement of water treatment devices in domestic plumbing installations

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing both boiling and chilled water and to various integers that are incorporated in such a dispenser.
  • dispenser taps for such dispensers a problem occurs with the heating and cooling of pipes and outlets for delivery of the chilled or boiling water. If boiling water is dispensed the pipes and outlet are heated through thermal transfer from the boiling water. Heat is thus lost which reduces the temperature of the dispensed water. Similarly, chilled water will be heated by the pipes and outlet to increase the temperature of the dispensed chilled water. This problem is substantially exacerbated if boiling water is dispensed immediately after chilled water has been dispensed or vice versa. The metallic tap body heats up or cools down depending on the temperature of the water dispensed.
  • a dispenser tap for dispensing a plurality of liquids at different temperatures, said tap including a main body and a liquid outlet, a plurality of liquid inlet pipes coupled to said liquid outlet and said liquid inlet pipes being thermally isolated from said main body.
  • said inlet pipes are thermally isolated from one another and are formed of a material of low thermal mass.
  • a problem with taps for dispensing chilled water from displacement type dispensers is that they drip. If ice forms on the evaporating coil of the cooling system a displacement of water will occur because water expands when it freezes. This expansion will force water up the tap and dripping occurs.
  • the present invention in a further preferred aspect may provide a tap including an outlet pipe, said outlet pipe including a restriction and a drain for collecting drips from said outlet pipe located adjacent said restriction on the side of said outlet.
  • Filtration systems provide problems in ascertaining that the appropriate filter is fitted and that the filter is fitted correctly. As many filters are screwed onto a post it may be easy to fit the wrong filter to the post. Filters also need to be tight with the gasket providing a complete seal to avoid leakage of the filtered liquid.
  • the invention in a further preferred aspect may provide a filter detection system including a filter housing for receiving a filter cartridge, a switch sensitive to the correct mounting of said filter cartridge to said filter housing and means responsive to said switch to indicate that said filter cartridge has been correctly mounted.
  • said switch is a magnetic reed switch and said filter cartridge includes a magnetic body whereby said switch closes when said filter cartridge is correctly mounted.
  • the magnetic body is annular in shape.
  • Filtration systems have further problems in ensuring that filters are replaced when exhausted.
  • Filter construction varies depending on the contaminants to be removed.
  • Filters may consist of activated carbon, ion exchange resin, sediment collection media or combinations thereof. Filters have a useful life and are exhausted when the sediment collection media is blocked or when the chemical properties of the activated carbon or resin media are expended. It is also preferable to replace filters at regular intervals, even if usage has been .minimal, as the sediment may contain organic material resulting in bacterial incubation.
  • Known methods to monitor the filter condition include the use of a pressure gauge or switch which measures the differential pressure across the filter. Such methods are not suitable for activated carbon or resin media filters as the filtration properties will be exhausted a long time before the filter is blocked. The measurement of pressure differential will vary depending on the flow rate of the liquid to be filtered. Other methods of measurement involve flow volume measurement using a mechanical counter and rotating vanes. None of these methods allow a time parameter to be considered when determining the exhaustion of the filter.
  • a filter exhaustion indication system including a means for indicating flow of a liquid to be filtered through a filter, circuit means including a first timer means for incrementing a counter or memory location dependent on the time said liquid is flowing, a second timer means for incrementing said counter or memory location dependent on predetermined time intervals and means to indicate when a predetermined count for said counter or memory location has been reached.
  • said first and second timer means are incorporated in a microprocessor.
  • said microprocessor prevents flow of said liquid to said filter when said predetermined count or a further predetermined count has been reached.
  • Water chillers for drinking water require an air cooled condenser to be provided which is hot to touch. If a compact unit is needed cooling fans or vents waste space to allow the heat from the condenser to be dispersed.
  • the present invention in another preferred aspect may provide a water chiller unit including a refrigeration system for cooling said water, said refrigeration system including a compressor, evaporator, condenser and expansion valve, whereby said condenser is located in a fluid filled container to cause said fluid to be heated.
  • said fluid is water and provides a preheated source of water for a water heating device.
  • a cooling coil is located co-axially within said condenser to allow additional cooling of said condenser as required by a flow of cooling medium such as water without significant loss of energy stored in the said preheated water.
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser tap for dispensing hot and cold water
  • Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser tap of Fig.
  • Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view along and in the direction of arrows 3-3 of Fig. 2;
  • Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a filter detection system made in accordance with another aspect of the invention.
  • Fig. 5 is a filter exhaustion indication system made in accordance with a further aspect of the invention.
  • Fig. 6 is a boiling water/chilled water dispenser made in accordance with a still further aspect of the invention.
  • a dispenser tap 10 for dispensing both boiling and cold or chilled water.
  • Dispenser tap 10 is adapted to be bench mounted by shoulder 12.
  • Dispenser tap 10 comprises a main body 14 with an outlet head 16.
  • Main body 14 can be formed of brass or any other suitable material.
  • Two inlet tubes 18, 20 carry hot and cold water respectively.
  • An optional tube 21 can also be provided, if required.
  • the two tubes 18, 20 are made from a material of low thermal mass, preferably plastics material and are thermally isolated from one another by air gap 22, plug 23 and separator/divider 24.
  • the tubes 18, 20 are also thermally isolated from main body 14.
  • Both tubes 18, 20 lead into valving means 26 which are typically ceramic washer valves or control switches for solenoid operation if displacement type dispensers are used. Handles 28 allow manual control of valving means 26.
  • Each tube 18, 20 is coupled to an outlet plug 30.
  • Outlet plug 30 has separate outlets for hot and cold water and can be secured by epoxy 31.
  • the separation of tubes 18, 20 prevents main body 14 from being heated or cooled by the tubes. As main body 14 is not affected by the temperature of tubes 18, 20 the temperature of the dispensed water is not affected by main body 14. Accordingly, chilled water dispensed from tube 20 is not affected by an immediate prior dispensing of hot water from tube 18. In prior art dispenser taps the dispensing of hot water would heat the main body and a subsequent dispensing of chilled water would result in the chilled water being warmed through thermal transfer from the main body.
  • a problem that can occur is that as water expands as it freezes water can drip from outlet 16 especially from displacement type dispensers.
  • a venturi type restriction 102 is located in tube 20.
  • a bleed tube 104 is positioned adjacent and above restriction 102 and discharges into a drain. In use, chilled water flows through tube 20 and issues from outlet 16. During normal water flow no water will enter bleed tube 104. When the flow of water ceases any water displaced by expansion will drip into bleed tube 104 to exit via the drain. It is clear that the non-drip aspect of this embodiment could be incorporated in any tap and is not restricted to its use in the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3.
  • FIG. 4 shows a filter detection device 200 having a filter housing 202 to which is attached a filter cartridge 204.
  • Cartridge 204 can be held fast by securing filter housing 202 to filter base 203, screwthreaded onto a post or secured in any other suitable manner.
  • Mounted on or within filter gasket 206 is an annular magnet 208.
  • the magnet 208 can be incorporated into the design of the gasket or could be a separate item that is affixed to the filter cartridge 204 or filter gasket
  • a magnetic sensor 210 e.g. a magnetic reed switch, is positioned adjacent magnet 208 for detecting the presence of magnet 208.
  • Sensor 210 is coupled to a circuit 212 for indicating the correct positioning of the filter cartridge 204.
  • a lamp 214 will indicate the correct positioning of the filter cartridge. Magnetic sensor 210 will only be activated when magnet 208 is sufficiently close to sensor 210. This closeness will be predetermined to ensure that the filter cartridge 204 will be clampingly engaged with filter housing 202. If the wrong filter is fitted, e.g. the diameter of magnet 208 is not as
  • SUBSTITUTE SHEET (Rule 2fe) prescribed, or if there is no magnet, then circuit 212 will not activate.
  • the annular nature of magnet 208 allows various degrees of tightness to be applied which will be independent of the rotational position of sensor 210.
  • the particular embodiment refers to water filters the invention is also applicable to other filter uses e.g. oil filters in automobiles, hydraulic oil filters and similar situations.
  • Fig. 5 shows a filter exhaustion indication system 300 which incorporates the filter detection device 200 shown in Fig. 4.
  • system 300 is used for water filtration where filter cartridge 204 provides filtered water from outlet 302. Water under mains pressure enters filter cartridge 204 through inlet 304.
  • Circuit 212 is a microprocessor based controller which is coupled to a counter display 306 to indicate the filter exhaustion of filter cartridge 204.
  • Input means 308 e.g. keypad or switches, allow an operator to enter data or access circuit 212.
  • Lamp 214 will be activated by circuit 212 when filter cartridge 204 is exhausted.
  • a switch 310 senses flow of water when the system is operated and may be a flow control switch or manually operated switch. If required a solenoid valve 312 can be inserted in inlet 304 to prevent flow of water when circuit 212 determines that filter cartridge 204 is exhausted.
  • switch 310 In use, when switch 310 is closed e.g. by coupling to handles 28 or flow of water detected, water flows into filter cartridge 204 from inlet 304 and exits through outlet 302.
  • the microprocessor will increment a memory location or counter 314 at that time. If the flow of water continues beyond a predetermined time interval (e.g. the time to fill a cup with water) the memory location or counter 314 will be incremented as each interval is reached. Accordingly, if a jug is filled there may be, for example, six such increments. As some filters have their effectiveness shortened by bacterial contamination the counter may also be incremented at a predetermined time interval notwithstanding any dispensing of water. This additional incrementing of the memory location or counter 314 will ensure filter cartridge 204 is replaced periodically, even if not used or, is used infrequently.
  • a predetermined time interval e.g. the time to fill a cup with water
  • lamp 214 When a predetermined count is reached, dependent on type of filter, size, flow rate and other characteristics of the filtering media, lamp 214 will be activated by circuit 212 to indicate that the filter cartridge 204 should be replaced. If required, solenoid valve
  • the various parameters for the said timers and counters can be changed, if required, by keypad or switches 308. Variation of the parameters may be required, for example for different filter media or different prevailing water conditions.
  • Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a dispenser 400 which dispenses hot and chilled water.
  • the embodiment uses dispenser tap 10 from Fig. 1 and the filter detection system of Fig. 4. If required the filter exhaustion system can also be incorporated in this embodiment.
  • a displacement type continuous water heater 402 e.g. of the type disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/AU93/00038, supplies boiling water to inlet tube 18.
  • Chilled water is supplied to inlet 20 from a chilled water container 404.
  • Container 404 receives cold water from piping 406 via
  • Solenoid 408 will allow cold water to flow when appropriate handle 28 is actuated for dispensing of chilled water.
  • Located inside container 404 is an evaporator coil 410 of a refrigeration system.
  • the refrigeration system includes a compressor 412, a condenser coil 414 located in a preheat container 416 and an expansion valve 417.
  • Valve 417 can be adjustable to suit requirements.
  • a thermostat 418 inside container 404 can be coupled to compressor 412 to allow monitoring of the chilled water temperature and activation of compressor 412.
  • Preheat container 416 receives cold water through piping
  • solenoid 422 When appropriate handle 28 is actuated for dispensing of boiling water solenoid 422 will be opened to force cold water into preheat container 416. Water from preheat container 416 will enter continuous water heater 402 through piping 424. Co-axially located within condenser coil 414 is a supplementary cooling coil 426. The supplementary cooling coil 426 is connected to the mains water supply 428 at one end and to a drain 430 at the other end. A solenoid valve 432 is inserted in piping 434 to allow cooling water to flow to drain 430, if required. The supplementary cooling coil 426 will be at mains water pressure to eliminate the generation of steam if condenser coil 414 approaches 100 °C.
  • a pressure switch 436 senses pressure or temperature in condenser gas pipe 438 and will open solenoid valve 432 to allow cold water to flow when required to reduce the temperature of the condenser coil 414. Under normal conditions heat generated by condenser coil 414 will heat water in preheat container 416 to reduce the energy requirements for water heater 402. This embodiment allows a unit to be supplied which has no fans or exposed heat exchangers.

Abstract

A dispenser tap (10) dispenses boiling and cold water through a plurality of inlet pipes (18, 20, 21) in a main body (14). Each inlet pipe (18, 20, 21) is thermally isolated from the main body (14) by means of an air gap maintained by an outlet plug (30), an inlet plug (23) and a divider (24) in the main body (14). The tap cold water tube (20) may include a venturi type restriction (102) and bleed tube (104) on the outlet side of the restriction which drains the outlet tube (20) to prevent dripping when the tap is turned off. Water supply for the tap (10) may pass through a filter including a filter detection system (200) with a housing (202) having a switch (210) detecting the presence of a magnet (208) on a screw-in cartridge (204). Also disclosed is a filter exhaustion indication system (300, Figure 5) which is a microprocessor based system indicating when recorded flow times reach a predetermined amount. Also disclosed is a water dispenser (400, figure 6) incorporating the above devices and which includes a refrigeration system and a water heating device (402), in which the condenser coil (414) of the refrigeration system heats the source of water for the heating device (402).

Description

DISPENSER FOR HOT AND COLD WATER
The present invention relates to a dispenser for dispensing both boiling and chilled water and to various integers that are incorporated in such a dispenser. With respect to dispenser taps for such dispensers a problem occurs with the heating and cooling of pipes and outlets for delivery of the chilled or boiling water. If boiling water is dispensed the pipes and outlet are heated through thermal transfer from the boiling water. Heat is thus lost which reduces the temperature of the dispensed water. Similarly, chilled water will be heated by the pipes and outlet to increase the temperature of the dispensed chilled water. This problem is substantially exacerbated if boiling water is dispensed immediately after chilled water has been dispensed or vice versa. The metallic tap body heats up or cools down depending on the temperature of the water dispensed.
It is an object of the invention to overcome these problems. In accordance with a preferred aspect of the invention there may be provided a dispenser tap for dispensing a plurality of liquids at different temperatures, said tap including a main body and a liquid outlet, a plurality of liquid inlet pipes coupled to said liquid outlet and said liquid inlet pipes being thermally isolated from said main body.
Preferably said inlet pipes are thermally isolated from one another and are formed of a material of low thermal mass. A problem with taps for dispensing chilled water from displacement type dispensers is that they drip. If ice forms on the evaporating coil of the cooling system a displacement of water will occur because water expands when it freezes. This expansion will force water up the tap and dripping occurs.
- 1 It is an object of a further aspect of the invention to alleviate this problem.
With this object in view the present invention in a further preferred aspect may provide a tap including an outlet pipe, said outlet pipe including a restriction and a drain for collecting drips from said outlet pipe located adjacent said restriction on the side of said outlet.
Filtration systems provide problems in ascertaining that the appropriate filter is fitted and that the filter is fitted correctly. As many filters are screwed onto a post it may be easy to fit the wrong filter to the post. Filters also need to be tight with the gasket providing a complete seal to avoid leakage of the filtered liquid.
In order to overcome these problems the invention in a further preferred aspect may provide a filter detection system including a filter housing for receiving a filter cartridge, a switch sensitive to the correct mounting of said filter cartridge to said filter housing and means responsive to said switch to indicate that said filter cartridge has been correctly mounted.
Preferably said switch is a magnetic reed switch and said filter cartridge includes a magnetic body whereby said switch closes when said filter cartridge is correctly mounted. In a preferred embodiment the magnetic body is annular in shape.
Filtration systems have further problems in ensuring that filters are replaced when exhausted. Filter construction varies depending on the contaminants to be removed. Filters may consist of activated carbon, ion exchange resin, sediment collection media or combinations thereof. Filters have a useful life and are exhausted
Figure imgf000004_0001
when the sediment collection media is blocked or when the chemical properties of the activated carbon or resin media are expended. It is also preferable to replace filters at regular intervals, even if usage has been .minimal, as the sediment may contain organic material resulting in bacterial incubation. Known methods to monitor the filter condition include the use of a pressure gauge or switch which measures the differential pressure across the filter. Such methods are not suitable for activated carbon or resin media filters as the filtration properties will be exhausted a long time before the filter is blocked. The measurement of pressure differential will vary depending on the flow rate of the liquid to be filtered. Other methods of measurement involve flow volume measurement using a mechanical counter and rotating vanes. None of these methods allow a time parameter to be considered when determining the exhaustion of the filter.
In order to overcome these problems the invention in yet another preferred aspect may provide a filter exhaustion indication system including a means for indicating flow of a liquid to be filtered through a filter, circuit means including a first timer means for incrementing a counter or memory location dependent on the time said liquid is flowing, a second timer means for incrementing said counter or memory location dependent on predetermined time intervals and means to indicate when a predetermined count for said counter or memory location has been reached.
Preferably said first and second timer means are incorporated in a microprocessor. In a preferred embodiment said microprocessor prevents flow of said liquid to said filter when said predetermined count or a further predetermined count has been reached.
Water chillers for drinking water require an air cooled condenser to be provided which is hot to touch. If a compact unit is needed cooling fans or vents waste space to allow the heat from the condenser to be dispersed.
It is an object of a further aspect of the invention to provide a water chiller which requires no fans or vents and contact with the condenser is avoided. With this object in view the present invention in another preferred aspect may provide a water chiller unit including a refrigeration system for cooling said water, said refrigeration system including a compressor, evaporator, condenser and expansion valve, whereby said condenser is located in a fluid filled container to cause said fluid to be heated.
Preferably said fluid is water and provides a preheated source of water for a water heating device. In a preferred embodiment a cooling coil is located co-axially within said condenser to allow additional cooling of said condenser as required by a flow of cooling medium such as water without significant loss of energy stored in the said preheated water.
These and other objects and aspects of the present invention will be more .fully described with reference to the preferred non-limitative embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:-
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a dispenser tap for dispensing hot and cold water;
Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the dispenser tap of Fig.
1; Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view along and in the direction of arrows 3-3 of Fig. 2;
Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing a filter detection system made in accordance with another aspect of the invention;
Fig. 5 is a filter exhaustion indication system made in accordance with a further aspect of the invention; and
Fig. 6 is a boiling water/chilled water dispenser made in accordance with a still further aspect of the invention.
In Figs. 1 to 3 there is shown a dispenser tap 10 for dispensing both boiling and cold or chilled water. The dispenser tap
10 is adapted to be bench mounted by shoulder 12. Dispenser tap 10 comprises a main body 14 with an outlet head 16. Main body 14 can be formed of brass or any other suitable material. Two inlet tubes 18, 20 carry hot and cold water respectively. An optional tube 21 can also be provided, if required. The two tubes 18, 20 are made from a material of low thermal mass, preferably plastics material and are thermally isolated from one another by air gap 22, plug 23 and separator/divider 24. The tubes 18, 20 are also thermally isolated from main body 14. Both tubes 18, 20 lead into valving means 26 which are typically ceramic washer valves or control switches for solenoid operation if displacement type dispensers are used. Handles 28 allow manual control of valving means 26. Each tube 18, 20 is coupled to an outlet plug 30. Outlet plug 30 has separate outlets for hot and cold water and can be secured by epoxy 31. The separation of tubes 18, 20 prevents main body 14 from being heated or cooled by the tubes. As main body 14 is not affected by the temperature of tubes 18, 20 the temperature of the dispensed water is not affected by main body 14. Accordingly, chilled water dispensed from tube 20 is not affected by an immediate prior dispensing of hot water from tube 18. In prior art dispenser taps the dispensing of hot water would heat the main body and a subsequent dispensing of chilled water would result in the chilled water being warmed through thermal transfer from the main body.
A problem that can occur is that as water expands as it freezes water can drip from outlet 16 especially from displacement type dispensers. To overcome this problem a venturi type restriction 102 is located in tube 20. A bleed tube 104 is positioned adjacent and above restriction 102 and discharges into a drain. In use, chilled water flows through tube 20 and issues from outlet 16. During normal water flow no water will enter bleed tube 104. When the flow of water ceases any water displaced by expansion will drip into bleed tube 104 to exit via the drain. It is clear that the non-drip aspect of this embodiment could be incorporated in any tap and is not restricted to its use in the embodiment shown in Figs. 1 to 3.
To avoid repetition of description similar integers in the various embodiments will be referenced with the same numerals. Fig. 4 shows a filter detection device 200 having a filter housing 202 to which is attached a filter cartridge 204. Cartridge 204 can be held fast by securing filter housing 202 to filter base 203, screwthreaded onto a post or secured in any other suitable manner. Mounted on or within filter gasket 206 is an annular magnet 208. The magnet 208 can be incorporated into the design of the gasket or could be a separate item that is affixed to the filter cartridge 204 or filter gasket
206. A magnetic sensor 210 e.g. a magnetic reed switch, is positioned adjacent magnet 208 for detecting the presence of magnet 208. Sensor 210 is coupled to a circuit 212 for indicating the correct positioning of the filter cartridge 204. A lamp 214 will indicate the correct positioning of the filter cartridge. Magnetic sensor 210 will only be activated when magnet 208 is sufficiently close to sensor 210. This closeness will be predetermined to ensure that the filter cartridge 204 will be clampingly engaged with filter housing 202. If the wrong filter is fitted, e.g. the diameter of magnet 208 is not as
SUBSTITUTE SHEET (Rule 2fe) prescribed, or if there is no magnet, then circuit 212 will not activate. The annular nature of magnet 208 allows various degrees of tightness to be applied which will be independent of the rotational position of sensor 210. Although the particular embodiment refers to water filters the invention is also applicable to other filter uses e.g. oil filters in automobiles, hydraulic oil filters and similar situations.
Fig. 5 shows a filter exhaustion indication system 300 which incorporates the filter detection device 200 shown in Fig. 4. In this embodiment system 300 is used for water filtration where filter cartridge 204 provides filtered water from outlet 302. Water under mains pressure enters filter cartridge 204 through inlet 304. Circuit 212 is a microprocessor based controller which is coupled to a counter display 306 to indicate the filter exhaustion of filter cartridge 204. Input means 308 e.g. keypad or switches, allow an operator to enter data or access circuit 212. Lamp 214 will be activated by circuit 212 when filter cartridge 204 is exhausted. A switch 310 senses flow of water when the system is operated and may be a flow control switch or manually operated switch. If required a solenoid valve 312 can be inserted in inlet 304 to prevent flow of water when circuit 212 determines that filter cartridge 204 is exhausted.
In use, when switch 310 is closed e.g. by coupling to handles 28 or flow of water detected, water flows into filter cartridge 204 from inlet 304 and exits through outlet 302. The microprocessor will increment a memory location or counter 314 at that time. If the flow of water continues beyond a predetermined time interval (e.g. the time to fill a cup with water) the memory location or counter 314 will be incremented as each interval is reached. Accordingly, if a jug is filled there may be, for example, six such increments. As some filters have their effectiveness shortened by bacterial contamination the counter may also be incremented at a predetermined time interval notwithstanding any dispensing of water. This additional incrementing of the memory location or counter 314 will ensure filter cartridge 204 is replaced periodically, even if not used or, is used infrequently.
When a predetermined count is reached, dependent on type of filter, size, flow rate and other characteristics of the filtering media, lamp 214 will be activated by circuit 212 to indicate that the filter cartridge 204 should be replaced. If required, solenoid valve
312 could be inhibited to prevent any further dispensing of water. When filter cartridge 204 is removed magnet 208 will move away from magnetic reed switch 210 and cause switch 210 to open. The opening of switch 210 will cause circuit 212 to reset memory location or counter 214. When filter cartridge 204 is correctly fitted magnet
208 will again close switch 210 allowing further dispensing of water. The various parameters for the said timers and counters can be changed, if required, by keypad or switches 308. Variation of the parameters may be required, for example for different filter media or different prevailing water conditions.
Fig. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a dispenser 400 which dispenses hot and chilled water. The embodiment uses dispenser tap 10 from Fig. 1 and the filter detection system of Fig. 4. If required the filter exhaustion system can also be incorporated in this embodiment. A displacement type continuous water heater 402, e.g. of the type disclosed in International Patent Application No. PCT/AU93/00038, supplies boiling water to inlet tube 18.
Chilled water is supplied to inlet 20 from a chilled water container 404. Container 404 receives cold water from piping 406 via
- 8 - a solenoid 408. Solenoid 408 will allow cold water to flow when appropriate handle 28 is actuated for dispensing of chilled water. Located inside container 404 is an evaporator coil 410 of a refrigeration system. The refrigeration system includes a compressor 412, a condenser coil 414 located in a preheat container 416 and an expansion valve 417. Valve 417 can be adjustable to suit requirements. A thermostat 418 inside container 404 can be coupled to compressor 412 to allow monitoring of the chilled water temperature and activation of compressor 412. Preheat container 416 receives cold water through piping
420. When appropriate handle 28 is actuated for dispensing of boiling water solenoid 422 will be opened to force cold water into preheat container 416. Water from preheat container 416 will enter continuous water heater 402 through piping 424. Co-axially located within condenser coil 414 is a supplementary cooling coil 426. The supplementary cooling coil 426 is connected to the mains water supply 428 at one end and to a drain 430 at the other end. A solenoid valve 432 is inserted in piping 434 to allow cooling water to flow to drain 430, if required. The supplementary cooling coil 426 will be at mains water pressure to eliminate the generation of steam if condenser coil 414 approaches 100 °C. A pressure switch 436 senses pressure or temperature in condenser gas pipe 438 and will open solenoid valve 432 to allow cold water to flow when required to reduce the temperature of the condenser coil 414. Under normal conditions heat generated by condenser coil 414 will heat water in preheat container 416 to reduce the energy requirements for water heater 402. This embodiment allows a unit to be supplied which has no fans or exposed heat exchangers.
It will be understood that many modifications may be made in details of design and/or construction without departing from the ambit of the invention, the nature of which is to be ascertained from the forgoing description and appended claims.
10 -
E SHEET Rule 26)

Claims

CL.AIMS
1. A dispenser tap for dispensing a plurality of liquids at different temperatures, said tap including a main body and a liquid outlet, a plurality of liquid inlet pipes coupled to said liquid outlet and said liquid inlet pipes being thermally isolated from said main body.
2. The dispenser tap as claimed in claim 1, wherein said inlet pipes are thermally isolated from one another and are formed of a material of low thermal mass.
3. The dispenser tap as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein said liquid outlet includes an outlet plug to which said inlet pipes are coupled.
4. The dispenser tap as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a divider is provided adjacent the outlet end of said dispenser tap and an apertured plug is provided at the other end of said dispenser tap to ensure said inlet pipes do not touch each other or said main body.
5. The dispenser tap of any one of the preceding claims wherein said dispenser tap is of the displacement type.
6. A tap including an outlet pipe, said outlet pipe including a restriction and a drain for collecting drips from said outlet pipe located adjacent said restriction on the side of said outlet.
7. The tap as claimed in claim 6, wherein said restriction is a venturi type restriction and said drain is a bleed tube opening into said outlet pipe.
8. The tap as claimed in claim 6 or 7, wherein said tap is of the displacement type for chilled water.
9. A filter detection system including a filter housing for receiving a filter cartridge, a switch sensitive to the correct mounting of said filter cartridge to said .filter housing and means responsive to said switch to indicate that said filter cartridge has been correctly mounted.
10. The filter detection system as claimed in claim 9, wherein said switch is a magnetic reed switch and said filter cartridge includes a magnetic body whereby said switch closes when said filter cartridge is correctly mounted.
11. The filter detection system as claimed in claim 10, wherein the magnetic body is annular in shape.
12. The filter detection system as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein said switch indicates correct mounting of said filter cartridge by distance of said switch from said magnetic body.
13. A filter exhaustion indication system including a means for indicating flow of a liquid to be filtered through a filter, circuit means including a first timer means for incrementing a counter or memory location dependent on the time said liquid is flowing, a second timer means for incrementing said counter or memory location dependent on predetermined time intervals and means to indicate when a predetermined count for said counter or memory location has been reached.
14. The filter exhaustion indication system as claimed in claim 13, wherein said first and second timer means are incorporated in a microprocessor.
15. The filter exhaustion indication system as claimed in claim 14, wherein said microprocessor prevents flow of said liquid to said filter when said predetermined count or a further predetermined count has been reached.
16. The filter exhaustion indication system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15, further the filter detection system of any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein said counter or memory location is reset when said filter cartridge is dismounted from said filter housing.
17. The filter exhaustion indication system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the predetermined count for said counter or memory location and the predetermined time intervals can be varied by user data input means.
18. A water chiller unit including a refrigeration system for cooling said water, said refrigeration system including a compressor, evaporator, condenser and expansion valve, whereby said condenser is located in a fluid filled container to cause said fluid to be heated.
19. The water chiller unit as claimed in claim 18, wherein said fluid is water and provides a preheated source of water for a water heating device.
20. The water chiller unit as claimed in claim 18 or 19, wherein a cooling coil is located within said condenser to prevent overheating thereof.
21. The water chiller unit as claimed in claim 20, wherein said cooling coil is at mains water pressure and water only flows through said cooling coil to a drain to eliminate the generation of steam if said condenser overheats.
22. The water chiller as claimed in claim 20, wherein said cooling coil is located co-axially within said condenser allowing cooling of said condenser without cooling of said preheated water.
PCT/AU1994/000095 1993-03-05 1994-03-04 Dispenser for hot and cold water WO1994020784A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
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Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPL763893 1993-03-05
AUPL7638 1993-03-05

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EP0872601A1 (en) * 1997-04-19 1998-10-21 Walker, David MacAlistair Water treatment and delivery apparatus
US5837147A (en) * 1995-07-29 1998-11-17 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Methods and apparatus for controlling the draining of water from a water purifier
EP0917900A1 (en) * 1997-11-06 1999-05-26 Dart Industries Inc. Multi-stage water filter system
EP1030143A2 (en) * 1999-02-18 2000-08-23 CANDY S.p.A. Cool water dispenser device for refrigerator
WO2001030483A1 (en) * 1999-10-28 2001-05-03 Festo Ag & Co. Filtering apparatus for filtering compressed air
WO2002097978A3 (en) * 1999-04-22 2003-03-27 Hill Rom Services Inc Modular patient room
US6637049B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2003-10-28 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Personal care module
WO2004043570A2 (en) * 2002-11-06 2004-05-27 Donaldson Company, Inc. Filter cartridge having component for use with a sensor system; assemblies; and, methods
US6895715B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2005-05-24 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Headwall
US6978499B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2005-12-27 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Architectural bed docking apparatus
EP2207459A1 (en) * 2007-07-09 2010-07-21 Tempak International Pty Ltd System and method for dispensing iced beverages
WO2014111240A1 (en) * 2013-01-18 2014-07-24 Grohe Ag Sanitary fitting
TWI447337B (en) * 2011-08-23 2014-08-01 Ind Tech Res Inst Water dispenser
CN104048075A (en) * 2013-03-13 2014-09-17 松下电器产业株式会社 Faucet
DK177916B1 (en) * 2013-05-31 2015-01-05 Jb Armatur Aps A water dispensing system
DE102016123507A1 (en) * 2016-12-06 2018-06-21 Grohe Ag Apparatus comprising an inflow fitting and a phase change material cooling means
EP3366850A1 (en) * 2017-02-27 2018-08-29 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance for dispensing liquid with a hot water system as disinfection device for a cooled water system
EP3366849A1 (en) * 2017-02-27 2018-08-29 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance for dispensing liquid with a discharge conduit
WO2019060951A1 (en) * 2017-09-27 2019-04-04 Xprs Systems Pty Ltd A heated and chilled water dispenser
WO2019126840A1 (en) * 2017-12-27 2019-07-04 Billi Australia Pty Ltd Energy saving system for producing cooled and heated liquid
EP2229487B1 (en) 2007-12-15 2019-11-20 Grohe AG Hot water faucet with insulated outlet
WO2020160917A1 (en) * 2019-02-06 2020-08-13 Kwc Ag Drinking water system having a water withdrawal fitting
WO2023001570A1 (en) * 2021-07-21 2023-01-26 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Domestic appliance for dispensing liquid and having a coupled water-dispensing flushing mode, and method

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US5837147A (en) * 1995-07-29 1998-11-17 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Methods and apparatus for controlling the draining of water from a water purifier
US5772869A (en) * 1995-07-29 1998-06-30 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Data backup device for water purifier
EP0872601A1 (en) * 1997-04-19 1998-10-21 Walker, David MacAlistair Water treatment and delivery apparatus
EP0917900A1 (en) * 1997-11-06 1999-05-26 Dart Industries Inc. Multi-stage water filter system
EP1030143A2 (en) * 1999-02-18 2000-08-23 CANDY S.p.A. Cool water dispenser device for refrigerator
EP1030143A3 (en) * 1999-02-18 2001-02-28 CANDY S.p.A. Cool water dispenser device for refrigerator
WO2002097978A3 (en) * 1999-04-22 2003-03-27 Hill Rom Services Inc Modular patient room
US6645277B1 (en) 1999-10-28 2003-11-11 Festo Ag & Co. Filtering apparatus for filtering compressed air
WO2001030483A1 (en) * 1999-10-28 2001-05-03 Festo Ag & Co. Filtering apparatus for filtering compressed air
US6637049B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2003-10-28 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Personal care module
US6895715B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2005-05-24 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Headwall
US6978499B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2005-12-27 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Architectural bed docking apparatus
US7243386B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2007-07-17 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Docking station for patient support
US7865982B2 (en) 2001-05-25 2011-01-11 Hill-Rom Services, Inc. Hospital bed side rail with medical treatment control unit
WO2004043570A2 (en) * 2002-11-06 2004-05-27 Donaldson Company, Inc. Filter cartridge having component for use with a sensor system; assemblies; and, methods
WO2004043570A3 (en) * 2002-11-06 2004-08-05 Donaldson Co Inc Filter cartridge having component for use with a sensor system; assemblies; and, methods
US8464903B2 (en) 2007-07-09 2013-06-18 Tempak International Pty Ltd Method for dispensing iced beverages
EP2207459A1 (en) * 2007-07-09 2010-07-21 Tempak International Pty Ltd System and method for dispensing iced beverages
EP2207459A4 (en) * 2007-07-09 2012-02-08 Tempak Internat Pty Ltd System and method for dispensing iced beverages
EP2229487B1 (en) 2007-12-15 2019-11-20 Grohe AG Hot water faucet with insulated outlet
EP2229487B2 (en) 2007-12-15 2023-07-26 Grohe AG Hot water faucet with insulated outlet
TWI447337B (en) * 2011-08-23 2014-08-01 Ind Tech Res Inst Water dispenser
WO2014111240A1 (en) * 2013-01-18 2014-07-24 Grohe Ag Sanitary fitting
US9739040B2 (en) 2013-01-18 2017-08-22 Grohe Ag Sanitary fitting
CN104048075A (en) * 2013-03-13 2014-09-17 松下电器产业株式会社 Faucet
DK177916B1 (en) * 2013-05-31 2015-01-05 Jb Armatur Aps A water dispensing system
DE102016123507A1 (en) * 2016-12-06 2018-06-21 Grohe Ag Apparatus comprising an inflow fitting and a phase change material cooling means
EP3366850A1 (en) * 2017-02-27 2018-08-29 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance for dispensing liquid with a hot water system as disinfection device for a cooled water system
EP3366849A1 (en) * 2017-02-27 2018-08-29 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Household appliance for dispensing liquid with a discharge conduit
WO2019060951A1 (en) * 2017-09-27 2019-04-04 Xprs Systems Pty Ltd A heated and chilled water dispenser
US11555302B2 (en) 2017-09-27 2023-01-17 Xprs Systems Pty Ltd Heated and chilled water dispenser
GB2583266A (en) * 2017-12-27 2020-10-21 Billi Australia Pty Ltd Energy saving system for producing cooled and heated liquid
GB2583266B (en) * 2017-12-27 2022-12-28 Billi Australia Pty Ltd Energy saving system for producing cooled and heated liquid
WO2019126840A1 (en) * 2017-12-27 2019-07-04 Billi Australia Pty Ltd Energy saving system for producing cooled and heated liquid
WO2020160917A1 (en) * 2019-02-06 2020-08-13 Kwc Ag Drinking water system having a water withdrawal fitting
WO2020160916A1 (en) * 2019-02-06 2020-08-13 Kwc Ag Drainage device for connecting a drinking water system
WO2023001570A1 (en) * 2021-07-21 2023-01-26 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Domestic appliance for dispensing liquid and having a coupled water-dispensing flushing mode, and method

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