WO2012178044A1 - Système de distribution d'eau - Google Patents

Système de distribution d'eau Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2012178044A1
WO2012178044A1 PCT/US2012/043797 US2012043797W WO2012178044A1 WO 2012178044 A1 WO2012178044 A1 WO 2012178044A1 US 2012043797 W US2012043797 W US 2012043797W WO 2012178044 A1 WO2012178044 A1 WO 2012178044A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
water
carbonator
chilled
line
water line
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2012/043797
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Erdogan Ergican
Giancarlo Fantappie
Mukul Anil KHAIRATKAR
Sann Myint NAING
Jing Huang
Yoganathan THIERUMARAN
Original Assignee
Apiqe Inc.
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 Apiqe Inc. filed Critical Apiqe Inc.
Priority to EP12802533.5A priority Critical patent/EP2724096A4/fr
Priority to CN201280039931.1A priority patent/CN103946653A/zh
Publication of WO2012178044A1 publication Critical patent/WO2012178044A1/fr
Priority to US14/138,712 priority patent/US9309103B2/en

Links

Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F25—REFRIGERATION OR COOLING; COMBINED HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS; HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS; MANUFACTURE OR STORAGE OF ICE; LIQUEFACTION SOLIDIFICATION OF GASES
    • F25D—REFRIGERATORS; COLD ROOMS; ICE-BOXES; COOLING OR FREEZING APPARATUS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F25D23/00—General constructional features
    • F25D23/12—Arrangements of compartments additional to cooling compartments; Combinations of refrigerators with other equipment, e.g. stove
    • F25D23/126—Water cooler
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0003—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid
    • B67D1/0014—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught the beverage being a single liquid the beverage being supplied from water mains
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/0042—Details of specific parts of the dispensers
    • B67D1/0057—Carbonators
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0857—Cooling arrangements
    • B67D1/0858—Cooling arrangements using compression systems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0888—Means comprising electronic circuitry (e.g. control panels, switching or controlling means)
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0895—Heating arrangements
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing 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
    • B67D2210/00028—Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00047—Piping
    • B67D2210/0006—Manifolds
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing 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
    • B67D2210/00028—Constructional details
    • B67D2210/00081—Constructional details related to bartenders
    • B67D2210/00089—Remote control means, e.g. by electromagnetic signals

Definitions

  • Water dispensers Numerous types of water dispensers are available, including dispensers for chilled, unchilled (e.g., room temperature), and heated water. Some water dispensers dispense carbonated water. Water dispensers can include a reservoir or a pressurized source. Water dispensers may be stand alone devices, or incorporated into an appliance such as a refrigerator.
  • the carbon dioxide takes time to dissolve into to the water and achieve a palatable level of carbonization.
  • the saturator is typically large enough to hold a ready supply of carbonated water for dispensing and does not create new carbonated water instantaneously on demand.
  • a feature rich system for dispensing carbonated water and, optionally, non- carbonated (“still”) water may be provided while maintaining a relatively small form factor.
  • the system can provide one or more of chilled (carbonated or still), unchilled (e.g., room temperature), and heated water.
  • an apparatus for dispensing water including: a main inlet configured to receive water from a source; a chilled water line, including: an in-line carbonator; a carbonator water inlet valve configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to the carbonator; a carbonator gas inlet valve configured to selectively direct carbonating gas to the carbonator; and a chilled water line outlet.
  • the apparatus may also include a heat exchanger configured to chill water passing through the chilled water dispensing line; and a controller configured to control the carbonator water and gas inlet valves.
  • the chilled water line dispenses still water at the chilled water line outlet.
  • the carbonator water inlet valve is open and the carbonator gas inlet valve is open, the chilled water line dispenses carbonated water at the chilled water line outlet.
  • an unchilled water line including: an unchilled water inlet valve configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to an unchilled water line outlet.
  • the unchilled water inlet valve is controlled by the controller.
  • Some embodiments include a hot water line including: a hot water inlet valve configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to a hot water line outlet; a heater which heats water passing through the hot water line; and a hot water line outlet.
  • the heat exchanger includes a cooling tank configured to receive water from the main inlet; and at least a portion of the chilled water line is immersed in the cooling tank.
  • the in-line carbonator is immersed in the cooling tank.
  • the chilled water line includes a coil immersed in the cooling tank.
  • Some embodiments include: a cooling tank fill sensor in communication with the controller and configured to generate information indicative of a fill level of the cooling tank; and a cooling tank fill valve controlled by the controller and configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to the cooling tank.
  • the controller is configured to control the operation of the cooling tank fill valve based on the information indicative of a fill level of the cooling tank.
  • Some embodiments include a dispenser nozzle in fluid communication with the chilled water line outlet, the unchilled water line outlet, and the hot water line outlet.
  • Some embodiments include a main inlet valve controlled by the controller and configured to selectively interrupt the flow of water from the inlet to the chilled, unchilled, and hot water lines.
  • the chilled water line includes a water pump configured to pump water to the carbonator.
  • the chilled water line includes a flow compensator configured to receive water from an outlet of the carbonator, modify the flow, and direct the flow towards the chilled water line outlet.
  • Some embodiments include a carbonator gas source in fluid communication with the carbonator gas inlet valve.
  • the gas source includes a canister of pressurized carbon dioxide.
  • substantially the entire apparatus is contained within an enclosure.
  • the enclosure fits inside a cube having 0.3 m long sides, 0.5 m long sides, or 1.0 m long sides.
  • the chilled water dispensing line is configured to receive water at a temperature of about 20 C or greater, and dispense chilled water at a temperature of about 10 C or less at a flow rate of about 25 L/hour or more.
  • the chilled water line is configured to receive water at a temperature of about 20 C or greater, and dispense chilled water at a temperature of about 10 C or less at a flow rate of about 50 L/hour or more.
  • the chilled water line is configured to dispense carbonated water with a carbonation level of at least 2 g/L, at least 5 g/L, at least 10 g/L, or at least 15 g/L.
  • the carbonator includes: a conduit; an inlet to a flow path on the proximal end of the conduit; one or more dispersion elements arranged within the conduit; a passive accelerator within the conduit; a rigid impact surface immediately downstream of the passive accelerator; and a retention network connected to the distal end of the conduit.
  • the carbonator includes: a conduit; an inlet for directing carbon dioxide and water into the conduit; a rigid surface within the conduit; and a restriction within the conduit for accelerating the carbon dioxide and water to a speed sufficient such that when the carbon dioxide and water collide with the rigid surface they create an energy density sufficient to solubilize carbon dioxide in water.
  • Some embodiments include a filter.
  • the filter is arranged such that all water passing from the main inlet to each of the chilled water line, unchilled water line, and hot water line passes through the filter.
  • the heater is configured to heat water in the hot water line to a temperature of 85 C or more.
  • a method including: providing or obtaining the apparatus of any of the types described above; connecting the main inlet to a water source; and connecting the carbonator gas inlet valve to a carbon dioxide gas source.
  • Some embodiments include selectively dispensing chilled still and carbonated water based on a user selection.
  • Some embodiments include selectively dispensing chilled still, chilled carbonated and unchilled water based on a user selection.
  • the water source includes a source external to the apparatus.
  • the water source includes a source internal to the apparatus.
  • the carbon dioxide gas source includes a source external to the apparatus.
  • the carbon dioxide gas source includes a source internal to the apparatus.
  • an apparatus for dispensing water including: a main inlet configured to receive water from a water source; and a carbonated water line, including: a carbonator water inlet; a carbonator gas inlet; an in-line carbonator configured to receive water though the water inlet and gas through the gas inlet; and a carbonated water line outlet.
  • substantially the entire apparatus is contained within an enclosure.
  • the enclosure fits inside a cube having 0.3 m long sides, 0.5 m long sides, or 1.0 m long sides (in other embodiments any suitable size may be used).
  • the chilled water line is configured to dispense carbonated water with a carbonation level of at least 2 g/L, at least 5 g/L, at least 10 g/L, or at least 15 g/L.
  • an apparatus for dispensing water including: a dispenser integrated in a refrigerator, the dispenser including: a main inlet configured to receive water from a source; a chilled water line, including: an in-line carbonator; a carbonator water inlet valve configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to the carbonator; a carbonator gas inlet valve configured to selectively direct carbonating gas to the carbonator; and a chilled water line outlet; a heat exchanger configured to chill water passing through the chilled water dispensing line; and a controller configured to control the carbonator water and gas inlet valves.
  • the chilled water line dispenses still water at the chilled water line outlet; and when the carbonator water inlet valve is open and the carbonator water inlet valve is open, the chilled water line dispenses carbonated water at the chilled water line outlet.
  • an unchilled water line including: an unchilled water inlet valve configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to an unchilled water line outlet where the unchilled water inlet valve is controlled by the controller.
  • Some embodiments include a dispenser nozzle in fluid communication with the chilled water line outlet.
  • the chilled water line includes a water pump configured to pump water to the carbonator. In some embodiments, the chilled water line includes a flow compensator configured to receive water from an outlet of the carbonator, modify the flow, and direct the flow towards the chilled water line outlet.
  • Some embodiments include a carbonator gas source in fluid communication with the carbonator gas inlet valve.
  • the gas source includes a canister of pressurized carbon dioxide.
  • Some embodiments include the refrigerator.
  • the dispenser is mounted in a door of the refrigerator.
  • water in the chilled water line is cooled using a component of a refrigeration system of the refrigerator.
  • the chilled water dispensing line is configured to receive water at a temperature of about 20 C or greater, and dispense chilled water at a temperature of about 10 C or less at a flow rate of about 25 L/hour or more, or about 50 L/hour or more, e.g., in the rangle of 10-100 L/hour or any subrange thereof.
  • chilled water line is configured to dispense carbonated water with a carbonation level of at least 2 g/L, at least 5 g/L, at least 10 g/L, at least 15 g/L, or more, e.g. in the range of 0-30 g/L or any subrange thereof.
  • the carbonator includes: a conduit; an inlet to a flow path on the proximal end of the conduit; one or more dispersion elements arranged within the conduit; a passive accelerator within the conduit; a rigid impact surface immediately downstream of the passive accelerator; and a retention network connected to the distal end of the conduit.
  • the carbonator includes: a conduit; an inlet for directing carbon dioxide and water into the conduit; a rigid surface within the conduit; and a restriction within the conduit for accelerating the carbon dioxide and water to a speed sufficient such that when the carbon dioxide and water collide with the rigid surface they create an energy density sufficient to solubilize carbon dioxide in water.
  • Some embodiments include a filter.
  • the filter is arranged such that all water passing from the main inlet to the chilled water line passes through the filter.
  • a method including: providing the apparatus of any one of claims 1-65; connecting the main inlet to a water source; and connecting the carbonator gas inlet valve to a carbon dioxide gas source.
  • Some embodiments include: selectively dispensing chilled still and carbonated water based on a user selection.
  • Some embodiment include selectively dispensing chilled still, chilled carbonated and unchilled water based on a user selection.
  • Various embodiments may include any of the above described elements, alone or in any suitable combination.
  • Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram of a water dispenser.
  • Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of a controller for the water dispenser of Fig. 1.
  • Fig. 3 shows an exploded perspective view of a water dispenser.
  • Fig. 4 shows a chart illustrating the valve control states of the water dispenser of Fig. 1 for various user function selections.
  • Fig. 5 illustrates an in-line carbonator. The left panel shows a head on view of the carbonator inlet, and the right panel shows a cross sectional side view.
  • Fig. 6A shows an exploded view of a flow compensator.
  • Fig. 6B shows an assembled view of a flow compensator.
  • Fig. 7A shows a top down perspective exploded view of a dispenser nozzle device.
  • Fig. 7B shows a bottom up perspective exploded view of a dispenser nozzle device.
  • Fig. 8 is a chart of water input and output temperature as a function of the volume of water dispensed by an exemplary dispenser.
  • Fig. 9 is a chart comparing the carbonation level of carbonated water dispensed by a dispenser system to that of three conventional carbonated water products.
  • Fig. 10 illustrates gas inlet valve pulse sequences for controlling carbonation level in a volume of dispensed beverage.
  • Fig. 11 A shows a refrigerator with an integrated carbonated water dispenser.
  • Fig. 1 IB shows a detail of a door panel for the refrigerator of Fig. 11A.
  • Fig. l lC shows a variation of the embodiment of Figs. 11A and 1 IB where the tank 1103 is located on the rear side of the refrigerator, in closer proximity to the components of the primary refrigeration system of the refrigerator.
  • Fig. 12A is an illustration of a refrigeration system for a refrigerator.
  • Fig. 12B is an illustration of the thermodynamic cycle of the refrigeration system of Fig. 12A, superimposed on a temperature entropy diagram from the refrigerant used in the system.
  • Fig. 1 is a functional block diagram of a water dispenser 100.
  • the dispenser 100 includes a main inlet 101 which receives water from a main water supply 102.
  • the main water supply may be any suitable source including a reservoir or a pressurized water source.
  • the main water supply 102 is external to the dispenser (e.g., a plumbed water line).
  • the dispenser 100 may include the main water supply (e.g., when dispenser 102 includes a water storage tank).
  • Water from the main inlet 101 is directed through a main inlet valve 103.
  • the main inlet valve 103 may be controlled (e.g., opened or closed) by a controller 200 (see Fig. 2).
  • Water from the main inlet valve flows through a filter and is directed to three water dispensing lines a chilled and sparkling water line 105, an unchilled water line 106, and a hot water line 107. In various embodiments, one or more of these lines may be omitted. In some embodiments additional lines may be included.
  • the chilled water line 105 includes an in-line carbonator 108.
  • the in-line carbonator 108 does not require a cumbersome saturation tank as in conventional carbonation system.
  • the in-line carbonator is, e.g., of the type described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 12/772,641 filed May 3, 2010 entitled “APPARATUSES, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR EFFICIENT SOLUBILIZATION OF CARBON DIOXIDE IN WATER USING HIGH ENERGY IMPACT,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
  • This reference describes an apparatus that can be placed in a water line path to create carbonated water for dispensing. The apparatus accepts carbon dioxide and water through an inlet path.
  • a dispersed flow e.g., an annular dispersed flow
  • the dispersed flow then passes through a passive accelerator within the conduit, thereby greatly increasing the kinetic energy of the system.
  • the accelerated flow is directed to collide with a rigid impact surface immediately downstream of the passive accelerator. This collision creates sufficient pressure to solubilize the carbon dioxide into the water.
  • a retention network is provided at the output of the apparatus to collect and regulate the flow of carbonated water.
  • the chilled water line may include a carbonator water inlet valve 109 which is controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow a flow of water from the filter 104 to the carbonator 108.
  • the chilled water line 105 may include a water pump 110, which pumps water to the carbonator 108 (e.g., at a desired pressure level).
  • the water pump 110 may be controlled by the controller 200.
  • the chilled water line may include a coil 111 (e.g., a stainless steel coiled tube) through which water passes on the way to the carbonator 108 (e.g., to facilitate chilling of the water prior to entry into the carbonator, as described below).
  • a carbonator gas inlet valve 112 is controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow the flow of a carbonating gas (as shown carbon dioxide) from a pressurized gas source 113 (e.g., a canister).
  • a pressurized gas source 113 e.g., a canister.
  • the gas source 113 may be located within the dispenser 100, or may be located externally.
  • the carbonation level in a dispensed carbonated beverage may be controlled by pulsing the gas inlet valve 112 controlling the flow of gas (as shown, C0 2 ) to the carbonator.
  • the gas inlet valve 112 is pulsed between a fully closed and a fully open position at a fixed pulse frequency, but variable duty cycle.
  • a lower duty cycle is used (top frame).
  • a higher duty cycle is used (lower frame).
  • four repetitions of the pulsation are used, but in various embodiments, any suitable number of repetitions may be used.
  • the carbonation level may by controlled by controlling the gas inlet valve 112 to operate in one or more partially open positions.
  • the carbonation level in the dispensed volume may be controlled by controlling the amount of time or volume that the gas inlet valve is open during the dispensing operation. For example, for a higher level of carbonation, the gas inlet valve 112 may be left open during 100% of the dispensing operation, while for a lower level of carbonation, the gas inlet valve may be left open during 80% of the dispensing operation.
  • Water output from the carbonator may flow through a flow compensator 115 which operates to condition the flow from the carbonator.
  • carbonation devices produce an outflow of carbonated water that is more turbulent than desired.
  • the turbulence of the flow may degrade the level of carbonation or produce a poorly controlled or inconsistent output flow rate.
  • the compensator may allow for adjustable control of the flow rate through the compensator, the level of carbonation, the turbulence of the flow, the flow velocity, or other flow properties. Any suitable compensator may be used, including those described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/500,461 incorporated by reference above.
  • a flow compensator is described in detail below, with reference to Figs. 6 A and 6B.
  • a heat exchanger 114 is provided which cools water flowing through the chilled water line (e.g., through the coil 111).
  • the heat exchanger 114 includes a cooling tank 116 which is filled with a cooling fluid (as shown, water) in which one or more of the water coil 111, carbonator 108, and flow compensator 115 are immersed.
  • the cooling fluid in the cooling tank is cooled by a refrigeration system which includes a compressor and condenser (see Fig. 3).
  • the carbonator 108, and flow compensator 115 can be installed outside of the cooling tank 116.
  • a refrigeration cycle of the heat exchanger includes a compressor, evaporator coil, capillary coil, and a condenser with silent fans.
  • the system is compact but has high efficiency cooling capacity, which is critical for large demand applications and to obtain good quality sparkling water.
  • Heat exchange between the drinking water to be dispensed and the heat exchange medium filling the cooling tank 116 is provided by the evaporator coil, which is enclosed in the cooling tank unit of the heat exchanger.
  • the cooling tank 116 is filled with water to serve as the cooling medium.
  • the drinking water to be cooled passes through a stainless steel coil 111 that is immersed in the cooling medium. Water flowing through the stainless steel coil is incrementally cooled down to the desired temperature prior to dispensing.
  • the optimized cooling cycle and the design of the heat exchanger is to provide a high thermal efficiency and a dispensed water temperature of less than about IO C.
  • any other suitable controlled cooling devices and techniques may be applied.
  • the fill level of the cooling tank 116 may be adjusted by controlling a tank fill valve 117, which selectively allows water to flow from the main inlet 101 to the cooling tank 116.
  • the tank fill valve 117 may be controlled by the controller 200. In some embodiments, the fill level is controlled automatically.
  • a tank fill sensor (not shown) sends a signal to the controller 200 indicating the fill level of the cooling tank 116. If the fill level drops below a threshold level (e.g., due to evaporation), the fill valve 117 is opened to fill the tank until a desired fill level is reached.
  • At least one cold control sensor senses the temperature of water in the chilled water line or cooling tank and provides a signal to the controller 200. Based on this signal, the controller 200 may control the heat exchanger to provide a desired chilled water temperature or temperature range (e.g., by turning the compressor and condenser fans on or off).
  • Chilled water from the chilled water line 105 flows through a chilled water line outlet 118 to a dispenser nozzle unit 120 for dispensing.
  • the unchilled water line 106 includes a unchilled water line inlet valve 121 controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow water to flow from the filter 104 to the dispenser nozzle unit 120 to provide unchilled (e.g., room or ambient temperature) water.
  • the unchilled water line 106 may also include any suitable water pumps, filters, flow control devices, etc.
  • the hot water line 107 includes a hot water line inlet valve 122 controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow water to flow from the filter 104 to a hot water tank 123. Water in the tank is heated by a heater (not shown) controlled by the controller 200.
  • One or more temperature sensors may be provided which provide signals to the controller 200 and allow for automatic temperature control for the water in the hot tank.
  • One or more hot tank fill sensors may sense the fill level of the hot tank, and provide signals to the controller to allow the controller to control the hot tank fill level (e.g., by selectively opening and closing the hot water line inlet valve 122).
  • the hot tank can be filled by user operation without a hot tank fill sensor or controller such that at steady-state operation the hot tank is always full.
  • the hot water tank may include an agitator (e.g., an agitator pump) that agitates the water in the tank.
  • the agitator may be controlled by the controller 200.
  • Water from the hot water tank 123 is outlet to the dispenser nozzle unit 120 for dispensing.
  • the hot water line 107 may also include any suitable water pumps, filters, flow control devices, etc.
  • the dispenser nozzle unit 120 receives water from the water lines 105, 106, and 107 and outputs the water from a single nozzle. In some embodiments, multiple nozzles may be used.
  • the dispenser nozzle may include a UV light 124 (e.g., a UV light or UV light emitting diode or "LED") which illuminates the dispensed water to provide disinfection.
  • the UV light may be controlled by the controller 200.
  • the dispenser 100 includes a number of controllable valves. In some embodiments, these valves may be solenoid type valves. In various embodiments, any suitable types of controllable valves known in the art may be used. In typical embodiments, the valves are controlled by the controller 200 (described in detail below). However, in some embodiments, one or more valves are manually controlled. Referring to Fig. 2, the controller 200 controls various components of dispenser 100, as described above. In some embodiments, the controller 200 is implemented on a control board that includes one master microcontroller, which controls components and connected peripherals of the system with the help of other peripheral chips on the control board.
  • the controller 200 controls the open/closed state of the main inlet valve 103, the carbonator water inlet valve 109, the carbonator gas inlet valve 112, the cooling tank fill valve 117, the unchilled water line inlet valve 121, and the hot water inlet valve 122.
  • the controller 200 further controls the operation state of the heat exchanger 114 (e.g., by controlling the compressor and the condenser fans of the heat exchanger to turn on/off), the water pump, the hot water tank (e.g., to turn a heater on/off, control the heating level, turn the agitator pump on/off, etc.), the UV light 124, etc.
  • the controller 200 may further control various displays or indicators 201 (e.g., an LED based display or indicator light). For example, the controller may control LED indicators 201 that indicate the need to change the filter 104 or that a child safety switch has been activated. Other user interface features such as a LCD can also be added and controlled by the controller 200.
  • the controller 200 may receive signals from various sensors 202 including a cooling tank fill level sensor and a chilled water line temperature sensor.
  • sensors 202 including a cooling tank fill level sensor and a chilled water line temperature sensor.
  • Other sensor types may include overflow sensors, sensors which monitor the state of one or more components (e.g., the open/closed state of a valve), or any other suitable sensor.
  • the controller 200 may also receive control signals from one or more user interface devices such as pushbutton controllers 203 which may be located on a front panel of the dispenser (see Fig. 3).
  • pushbutton controllers 203 which may be located on a front panel of the dispenser (see Fig. 3).
  • a specific push-button 203 on the front panel is pressed for water selection, corresponding valve(s) along with main valve opens to dispense the choice of water.
  • Individual push buttons will dispense unchilled, chilled, and sparkling (carbonated) water.
  • Hot water is dispensed by pressing two hot water switches simultaneously in order to avoid accidental burns as the hot water is typically kept between 85 to 95 °C.
  • Fig. 4 illustrates the valve activation corresponding to various user push button selections.
  • software running on the controller 200 uses generic priority based round robin with interrupts methods to execute commands to control the operation of the dispenser 100.
  • the power of the hot water system can be turned off to save energy. Additional safety measures are taken by incorporating a child safety switch 205, e.g., located on the back of the unit (or some other hard to reach location) that deactivates the two hot water push button switches located on the front.
  • the controller 200 is powered by a DC power supply 206 which is in turn powered by a main AC power supply 207 (e.g., plugged into a wall socket). Some components of the dispenser 100 may be powered through the control board, while other components may be powered directly from the main power supply (or another supply, e.g., a supply dedicated to a particular component.
  • the controller 200 includes a communications unit that allows remote monitoring and/or control of the dispenser 100.
  • the controller may be able to detect a malfunction of the dispenser 100 and send a message to a remote location requesting service.
  • the controller 200 monitors the usage of the dispenser 100, e.g., to determine when a new filter is required.
  • the dispenser 100 may be provided at low or no cost to a user, in return for an agreement to purchase disposables such as replacement filters exclusively from the provider.
  • the controller 200 may be able to recognize if the use has exceeded the specifications of an existing filter, and indicate the need for a new filter.
  • the usage data may be stored in a secure memory accessible to the provider but not the user, so that the provider can be sure that the user is living up to its agreement to purchase new filters exclusively from the provider.
  • the monitored usage data includes filter life span, dispensing time (i.e., the amount of time that a dispensing function is activated), dispensed volume, statistical usage data, etc.
  • Smart Control 208 Some controller functions such as filter life span monitoring, statistical usage data, timed or volume dispensed functions are controlled and dictated by a "Smart Control" peripheral 208.
  • the Smart Control 208 is housed in a USB enclosure and communicates with the master microcontroller on the control board to keep track of filter usage and store/retrieve additional information.
  • the Smart Control 208 includes an 8-bit microcontroller and serial to USB converter on the board. The serial to USB converter converts
  • the Smart Control stores (e.g., in a secure and/or encrypted memory) vital operational information and optimizes functions on the control board to execute such instructions. Among such functions, filter life span monitoring, statistical usage data, volume dispensing, timed operations of the unit, maintenance and preventive schedules,
  • troubleshooting and preventive measures in case of malfunctioning can be listed. Such information can be indicated using LED lights, audible signals, downloadable files, through wireless communications to a server, displayed on a LCD, or similar technologies.
  • Fig. 3 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the dispenser 100. All of the dispenser components, including the gas source 113 are contained within a single enclosure 300.
  • the enclosure 300 includes a base plate, side and top panels, a front plate (including the control pushbuttons 203 and indicators 201), and a back plate.
  • One side panel includes a side door which allows easy user access to the filter 104 and gas source 113 for replacement.
  • a side partition separates the filter 104 and gas source 113 from the rest of the interior of the enclosure, to increase user safety and prevent user tampering.
  • the filter 104 and gas source 113 may be attached/detached using easy to use twist and lock connectors.
  • the gas source 113 may include a flow controller and/or pressure indicator which may be used to adjust the source to proper operating parameters.
  • the filter 104 is enclosed in a disposable filter cartridge of the type described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/500,469 incorporated by reference above.
  • the enclosure 100 may have an advantageous form factor, e.g., corresponding to a standard appliance sizes or standard cabinet sizes used in kitchens.
  • the enclosure 100 may have a size corresponding to one of the following standard appliance sizes.
  • the enclosure fits within a cube having a side length of 5 meters or less, 4 meters or less, 3 meters or less, 2 meters or less, 1 meter or less, 0.5 meters or less, 0.25 meters or less, or smaller, e.g., in the range of 0.25 meters- 5 meters or any sub-range thereof.
  • the controller 200 may be located at any suitable position within the enclosure, and may be connected to various components of the dispenser 100 using wired or wireless connections.
  • FIG. 5 An exemplary embodiment of carbonator 108 is shown in Fig. 5.
  • the carbon dioxide and water are brought into contact via a Y-shaped inlet manifold 400 having two inlets, one for a carbon dioxide supply the other for a water supply.
  • the two inlets are identical and interchangeable.
  • the manifold used to introduce the carbon dioxide and water into the collision chamber can be of any other suitable arrangement, for example, T-shaped or F-shaped.
  • the supplies could be provided by a concentric tube within a tube structure.
  • the Y-shaped manifold, or other shapes depending on their need, could also include an initial divider to prevent one stream going into the other supplies' inlet.
  • standard backflow preventers can also be used within the inlets or upstream of the inlets.
  • the flow of water and carbon dioxide can also be controlled by valves or regulators at the entrance of the manifold.
  • the incoming water pressure affects the flow and pressure through the remainder of the system.
  • a minimum pressure of 10 psi is sufficient to achieve a satisfactory flow rate and carbonation.
  • a flow rate in the range of 0.1 gpm to 1.5 gpm has been found to be particularly advantageous, but even higher flow rates are also acceptable.
  • the carbon dioxide is provided at a pressure between 45 psi and 125 psi.
  • the carbon dioxide pressure provided at the Y-shaped inlet manifold is kept close to the water pressure provided at the Y-inlet manifold.
  • flow developers 420 are provided within the flow path after the inlet manifold.
  • the flow developers are used in order to prevent a stratified, or laminar, carbon dioxide/water flow. Instead, the flow developers create a substantially dispersed flow, typically an annular-dispersed flow.
  • the embodiment of Fig. 5 uses passive flow developers comprised of helically shaped elements 420.
  • Other passive directional mixers capable of dispersing the carbon dioxide and water flow would also be suitable, such as protrusions from the conduit wall.
  • active mixers such as spinning blades can be used.
  • the flow developing elements 420 can be arranged in series to achieve the desired level of dispersion.
  • the flow developing elements can similarly be used in combinations of different types, including mixed passive and active elements.
  • the dispersed stream of carbon dioxide/water is then accelerated by forcing it through a restrictor/accelerator 430.
  • a restrictor/accelerator As is well known in the art, passing a fluid flow through a restriction will result in an accelerated flow, which arises due to the principle of mass conservation.
  • the restrictor/accelerator is used to easily increase the kinetic energy of the carbon dioxide/water stream prior to the collision.
  • the energy of the carbon dioxide/water flow exiting the restrictor/accelerator will be increased without requiring an expensive pumping apparatus.
  • the increased kinetic energy results in a higher momentum change upon impact with the collision surface 450, thereby increasing the pressure achieved in the corresponding pressure zone, which results in improved
  • the restrictor/accelerator 430 is a simple orifice. However, more complex engineered structures can also be employed.
  • acceptable solubilization in accordance with this disclosure is achieved with a sudden contraction or a converging restriction when it is designed to have a loss coefficient between 0.1 to 0.44, preferably about 0.41.
  • acceptable solubilization occurs with a loss coefficient larger than 10, preferably 60.
  • the size of the restrictions can be varied to achieve high quality carbonated water.
  • the ratio of the inlet radius to the contracted area radius is optimally designed to be in the range between 1 (no restriction) and 20 (max restriction);
  • each stream acquires a certain amount of momentum and related kinetic energy.
  • These streamlines impart some of its momentum to the adjacent layer of solution causing it to remain in motion and accelerate further in the flow direction.
  • the momentum flux in this case, is in the direction of the negative velocity gradient.
  • the momentum tends to go in the direction of decreasing velocity; thus the velocity gradient can be considered as the driving force for momentum transport.
  • the solid wall 450 can be of any shape or structure, preferably the wall is placed perpendicular to the carbon dioxide/water stream.
  • the wall should be placed sufficiently close to the restrictor accelerator so that the increased kinetic energy achieved is not substantially lost due to frictional forces prior to reaching the wall 450. It has been found that acceptable results are achieved if the solid wall 450 is placed from approximately 0.1 inches and 2.0 inches from the restrictor/accelerator, preferably 0.5 inches.
  • PED in the pressure zone, between a range of -40 foot-pound/cm 3 to 5 footpound/cm 3 have been found to produce acceptable solubilization.
  • the wall 450 further has outlet passages 455 to allow the further flow through the system. As shown in Fig. 4 this further connects to the inlet of retention network 460.
  • the retention network can simply be a plain conduit.
  • Retention network 460 of Fig. 5 is comprised of static helical mixers 465. Other types of packing materials, such as raschig rings, could also be used. Further, any of the static or active mixing elements described as suitable for creating a dispersed flow could be put to use in the retention network to further enhance contact and solubilization of carbon dioxide in water.
  • the length and configuration of the retention network and the size of the packing materials within the retention network can be modified to obtain different levels of carbonation to dispense carbonated water with different levels of solubilization.
  • longer retention networks preferably up to 10 inches, raise the carbonization level by allowing more time for mixing contact between the carbon dioxide and water in the fluid stream.
  • Longer retention networks also increase the pressure at the outlet passages of the collision chamber 455, which increases the pressure within the collision chamber and stabilizes the entire flow rate.
  • the length and composition of the retention network can also be used to obtain a desired pressure at the outlet of the retention network.
  • the pressure drop achieved through the retention network is directly proportional to the ratio between the length and the diameter ("L/D"). Therefore, one can achieve similar pressure drops, flow and mixing characteristics by changing either the length or the diameter or both of the retention network.
  • Packing materials also affect the pressure drop obtained. Generally, smaller size packing materials and longer retention networks increase the pressure drop.
  • Figs. 6 A and 6B illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the flow compensator 115.
  • Fig. 6A is an exploded view and Fig. 6B is an assembled view.
  • the flow compensator 115 includes a housing 1201 and an insert member 1202.
  • the housing 1201 includes an inlet port 1203 and an outlet port 1204.
  • the inlet and outlet ports 1203, 1204 include quick connect stem portions to facilitate connections with external devices (e.g., a connection between the output of carbonator 108 and the inlet port 1203).
  • threaded portions can be used.
  • any other type of (preferable fluid tight) connectors may be used.
  • a conduit 1205 extends through the housing 1201 between the inlet port 1203 and the outlet port 1204.
  • insert 1202 When assembled, a portion of insert 1202 is positioned in the conduit 1205.
  • the insert 1202 acts to seal the conduit 1205 such that a flow of carbonated water into the inlet port 1202 flows through the conduit along the insert 1202 and is output through the outlet port 1204.
  • the flow compensator 1 15 includes a facility 1206 for adjusting the position of the insert 1202 inside the conduit 1205.
  • the facility 1206 is made up of a threaded attachment between an end of the insert 1202 and a corresponding threaded hole in the housing 1201.
  • the end of the insert 1202 includes a notch that allows the insert 1202 to be turned (e.g., using a screw driver) to advance or retract the insert 1202 into or out of the conduit 1205.
  • any other type of adjustable attachment may be used.
  • the facility 1206 allows for adjustment of one or more properties (e.g., flow rate, turbulence, etc.) of the regulated flow output from the outlet port 1204.
  • the facility 1206 may allow for adjustment of the position of the insert 1202 while maintaining the fluid tight seal between the insert and housing.
  • two O-rings 1211 e.g., made of an elastomeric material such as rubber material
  • the conduit 1205 extends along a longitudinal axis (indicated with a dotted line) from a proximal end near the inlet port 1203 to a distal end near the outlet port 1204.
  • the conduit 1205 includes a tubular passage 1207 disposed about and extending from the inlet port 1203 along this longitudinal axis to a back wall formed by when the insert 1202 is attached to the housing 1201.
  • the outlet port 1204 is positioned distal from and transverse to (as show at a right angle to) the inlet port 1203.
  • the outlet port 1204 is in fluid
  • the insert 1202 When assembled, the insert 1202 extends along the longitudinal axis from a proximal end located within the conduit 1205, to a distal end that extends outside of the housing 1201.
  • the insert 1202 includes a tapered portion 1209 that is narrower towards the proximal end of the insert (i.e., the end of the insert facing the inlet port 1201) and wider towards the distal end of the insert.
  • the conduit 1205 may include a correspondingly tapered shaped portion 1210, such that conduit and insert cooperate to form a narrow conical channel.
  • This conical channel has a cross sectional area (taken along the direction transverse to the longitudinal axis) which is smaller than the cross sectional area of the portion of the conduit 1205 adjacent the inlet port.
  • the cross sectional area may be reduced by a factor of 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 100, etc or any other desirable amount.
  • the cross sectional area of the conical channel can be varied to control the rate of flow through the compensator and/or other flow properties.
  • the surface of the tapered portion 1209 and the surface of the correspondingly shaped portion 1210 of the conduit 1205 may be smooth. As described in greater detail below, this smooth narrow channel promotes laminar flow through the compensator 115, thereby reducing the turbulence of the flow.
  • the surface of cylindrical portion 1220 includes alternating ribs 1701 and channels 1702 extending in a direction along the longitudinal axis.
  • the depth of the channels 1702 increases with increasing distance from the tapered portion 1209 of the insert 1202 to a maximum depth, and then decreases. Accordingly, the cylindrical portion 1220 has an hourglass shape with a waist having a minimum diameter from the longitudinal axis.
  • the ribs 1701 separate adjacent channels 1702.
  • the ribs 1701 and channels 1702 operate to decrease the magnitude of the velocity of the flow through the channels 1702. This slowing may provide a longer contact time and a larger contact surface area between the carbon dioxide and water in the flow resulting in a better carbonation level and a stabilized flow.
  • the local magnitude of the flow velocity through the channels 1702 at their deepest point will be less than 50%, 25%, 10%, etc. of the velocity of the flow as it enters the channels. In general, deeper channels will have a more dramatic slowing effect.
  • the channels 1702 further operate to reduce the turbulence of the flow (i.e., providing a laminar flow) and maintain a consistent pressure.
  • the flow through the channels 1702 along a significant portion (e.g., at least 50%, at least 60 % and least 70% at least 80%, at least 90% or more) of the cylindrical section 1220 of the insert 1202 may be characterized by a Reynolds number of 2500 or less, 2000 or less, 1500 or less, 1000 or less, 500 or less, or even smaller.
  • the pressure for the corresponding flow along the corresponding portion of the insert 1202 may vary by less than e.g., 25%, 10%, 5%, 1%, or less than the average pressure. This type of flow advantageously prevents the separation of carbon dioxide and water, thereby helping to maintain the level of carbonation.
  • Figs. 7 A and 7B show exploded views of an exemplary embodiment of the dispenser nozzle unit 120.
  • the dispenser nozzle includes three inlets 701a, 701b, and 701c which receive water from the hot, chilled, and unchilled water lines, respectively.
  • the nozzle unit 120 includes additional inlets, e.g., to allow flavor content (e.g., a flavored syrup) to be mixed with the water flow.
  • flavor content e.g., a flavored syrup
  • the inlet water passes through a check valve 702 which prevents back flow into an interior chamber 703 of the nozzle unit 120.
  • the chamber may be shaped to allow the expansion of the flow from the inlets, to control the flow rate and to reduce spattering and interrupted flow.
  • Water exits the chamber 703 through a nozzle 705 (e.g., a converging nozzle).
  • the chamber 703 may include one or more vapor exhaust ports to allow gas or vapor displaced by the inflow of water to exit the chamber.
  • the converging nozzle may include a check valve similar to 702.
  • the nozzle unit 120 includes a holder for the UV light which directs light onto the water flow stream to disinfect or otherwise clean the water. When ultraviolet energy is absorbed by the reproductive mechanisms of bacteria and viruses in the water, the genetic material or the organisms (DNA/RNA) is rearranged and they can no longer reproduce, reducing or eliminating the risk of disease. UV-rays are energy-rich
  • the UV light may provide UV doses in the range of, e.g., 1000-500,000 microwatt seconds per square centimeter, or any suitable subrange thereof. Such doses have been recognized as effective for reducing or eliminating water born contaminates.
  • the nozzle unit 120 includes a facility 706 (as shown a twist and lock connector with an O-ring groove) which allows for attachment of one or more peripheral devices.
  • the peripheral device may include a device for mixing flavor content with the dispensed water stream, e.g., as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
  • nozzle unit 120 may include any of the devices described in
  • Figs. 11 A and 1 IB show an embodiment of the dispenser 100 of the type described herein integrated in a refrigerator 1100.
  • the refrigerator may be of any type known in the art. As shown, the refrigerator is in a side by side configurations with two doors.
  • the water dispenser 100 is integrated in the left side door, with components of the dispenser contained in a compartment 1101.
  • the components of the dispenser 100 are substantially similar to those described above with respect to a stand-alone dispenser. As shown, the unchilled and heated water lines are omitted, but, in other embodiments, it one or both may be included.
  • Water from the main inlet 101 is directed through a main inlet valve 103.
  • the main inlet valve 103 may be controlled (e.g., opened or closed) by a controller 200 (e.g. of the type shown in Fig. 2).
  • Water from the main inlet valve flows through a filter (not shown) and is directed to a chilled and sparkling water line 105.
  • a carbonator water inlet valve 109 is controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow a flow of water from the filter to the carbonator 108.
  • the chilled water line 105 may include a water pump 110, which pumps water to the carbonator 108 (e.g., at a desired pressure level).
  • the water pump 110 may be controlled by the controller 200.
  • the desired pressure level may be provided by any other suitable arrangement, including the use of a gravity feed or using pressure from an external source (e.g., the pressure of the building plumbing connected to the main inlet).
  • the chilled water line may include a tank 1103 surrounded by a coolant line 1104 used to chill the water.
  • the coolant line 1104 may be a component of the main cooling system of the refrigerator 1100, as described in greater detail below.
  • a carbonator gas inlet valve 112 is controlled by the controller 200 to selectively allow the flow of a carbonating gas (as shown carbon dioxide) from a pressurized gas source 113 (e.g., a canister with a regulator, as shown).
  • the gas source 113 may be located within the refrigerator 1100 (as shown), or may be located externally. Some embodiments may include a regulator or pump to control the pressure of the carbonating gas delivered to the
  • Water output from the carbonator may flow through a flow compensator 115 that operates to condition the flow from the carbonator, as described in detail above.
  • the dispenser nozzle unit 120 receives water from the water line 105 and outputs the water from a single nozzle. In some embodiments, multiple nozzles may be used.
  • the door includes a dispensing area 1105 where a beverage receptacle 1108 (e.g. a cup, bottle, glass, etc.) can be placed to receive a beverage dispensed from the dispenser nozzle 120.
  • a beverage receptacle 1108 e.g. a cup, bottle, glass, etc.
  • the controller 200 may receive control signals from one or more user interface devices such as pushbutton controllers 1106 which may be located on a front panel of the refrigerator. When a specific push-button 1106 on the front panel is pressed for water selection, corresponding valve(s) along with main valve opens to dispense the choice of water.
  • pushbutton controllers 1106 which may be located on a front panel of the refrigerator.
  • the dispenser 100 in the refrigerator 1100 may include any of the components or features described above with respect to stand-alone dispensers.
  • FIG. 11C shows a variation of the embodiment of Figs. 11 A and 1 IB where the tank 1103 is located not in the door, but on a side of the refrigerator, in closer proximity to the components of the primary refrigeration system of the refrigerator.
  • this configuration is convenient when the primary refrigeration system is used to cool water in the tank 1103 used by the dispenser 100. In particular, it removes the need for running tubing from the main body of the refrigerator to the door.
  • the tank 1103 may be positioned in the door, with chilling of the dispensed water accomplished through heat transfer (e.g., convective heat transfer) with a freezer compartment of the refrigerator.
  • Fig. 12A shows an exemplary embodiment of a vapor-compression cooling system 1200 for the refrigerator.
  • the vapor-compression system 1200 uses a circulating liquid refrigerant (of any type known in the art) as the medium that absorbs and removes heat from the space to be cooled (the interior of the refrigerator 1100) and subsequently rejects that heat elsewhere (the external environment).
  • the system 2000 is a single-stage vapor-compression system including a compressor 2001, a condenser 2002, a thermal expansion valve 2003 (e.g., a capillary tube expansion valve), and an evaporator 2004.
  • Fig. 12B shows the thermodynamic cycle of the system 2000 superimposed on a temperature entropy diagram for the refrigerant fluid.
  • the solid line shows the cycle for the system in the absence of the dispenser 100.
  • the dotted line shows a modification of the cycle to accommodate cooling of water in the dispenser 100.
  • Circulating refrigerant enters the compressor 2001 in the thermodynamic state known as a saturated vapor and is compressed to a higher pressure, resulting in a higher temperature as well (process 1-2).
  • the hot, compressed vapor is then in the thermodynamic state known as a superheated vapor.
  • That hot vapor is routed through the condenser 2002 where it is cooled and condensed into a liquid, e.g., by flowing through a coil or tubes with cool water, air, or other fluid flowing across the coil or tubes (process 2-3-4).
  • the condensed liquid refrigerant in the thermodynamic state known as a saturated liquid, is next routed through the expansion valve 2003 where it undergoes an abrupt reduction in pressure (process 4-5). That pressure reduction results in the adiabatic flash evaporation of a part of the liquid refrigerant.
  • the auto-refrigeration effect of the adiabatic flash evaporation lowers the temperature of the liquid and vapor refrigerant mixture to where it is colder than the temperature of the enclosed space to be refrigerated (typically colder than the freezing point of water).
  • the cold mixture is then routed through the coil or tubes in the evaporator 2004.
  • a fan circulates the warm air in the enclosed space across the coil or tubes carrying the cold refrigerant liquid and vapor mixture. That warm air evaporates the liquid part of the cold refrigerant mixture.
  • the circulating air is cooled and thus lowers the temperature of the enclosed space to the desired temperature (isothermal process 5-1).
  • the evaporator is where the circulating refrigerant absorbs and removes heat that is subsequently rejected in the condenser and transferred elsewhere by the water or air used in the condenser.
  • the refrigerant vapor from the evaporator is again a saturated vapor and is routed back into the compressor 2001.
  • the refrigerant vapor to the compressor 2001 is at a temperature lower than the freezing point of water, and so may be too cold for use in chilling the water dispensed by the dispenser 100.
  • the cycle can be modified (e.g., by extending the length of the evaporator tubing) such that the temperature of the refrigerant at the input to the compressor is at a desired temperature (e.g. around or above the freezing point of water).
  • the isothermal process 5-1 may be extended to include a non-isothermal process 1-1 ' that brings the temperature of the refrigerant to the desired temperature.
  • the refrigerant at the desired temperature may then be used to chill the water in the dispenser 100, e.g., by winding the refrigerant line going into the compressor around the water tank 1104, as show in Figs. 11 A, 11B, and l lC.
  • the above described refrigeration scheme is only one of many possible configurations.
  • as refrigeration scheme known in the art may be used (e.g., schemes featuring a cascaded refrigeration cycle, thermoelectric refrigeration, etc.).
  • the system 2000 may be used to cool the water in the dispenser using any suitable technique known in the art.
  • refrigerant at a suitable temperature from any point of the cycle may be used to cool the water of the dispenser 100.
  • the dispenser 100 may be integrated in other types of appliances including: ice makers, freezers, coffee makers, flavored beverage dispensers, etc.
  • the dispenser advantageously dispenses chilled carbonated water at a desirable flow rate and carbonation level.
  • the chilled water dispensing line is configured to receive water at a temperature of about 20 C or greater, and dispense chilled water at a temperature of about 10 C or less at a flow rate of about 10 L/hour or more, 25 L/hour or more, 50 L/hour or more, e.g. in the range of 1-200 L/hour or any subrange thereof.
  • dispensed water temperature remains around 10°C while dispensing about 60 liters in one hour, for a dispense rate of 60 L/hour.
  • FIG 9 shows the normalized carbonation levels tested and compared to carbonated water products available in the market (A, B, and C). Absolute carbonation levels were obtained using a carbonation tester Model T-03-567 (Terriss Consolidated Industries, Inc.). Values were normalized using a maximum absolute carbonation level of 3.7. As can be seen in Figure 9, the carbonation level achieved using the dispenser 100 produces higher quality carbonated water without the need for a saturator tank or other cumbersome equipment.
  • the carbonation level (in grams of carbon dioxide per liter of water, measured at a temperature of 10 C) is 2g/L or more, 5 g/L or more, 10 g/L or more, 15 g/L or more, 20g/L or more, e.g., in the range of 1-20 g/L or any suitable subrange thereof.
  • the components described above may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments,
  • one or more of the components are formed from or include a plastic (e.g., a thermoplastic) or polymer material (e.g., PFTE, PV, PU, nylon, etc.), a metal (e.g., copper, bronze, iron, steel, stainless steel, etc.), a composite, etc.
  • the components may be fabricated using any suitable technique including, e.g., molding (e.g., injection molding), machining (e.g., using one or more computer numerical controlled "CNC" tools such as a mill or lathe), etc.
  • connection may be used to provide fluid communication between various components.
  • the connections may be permanent (e.g., glued) or detachable (e.g., using threaded connections).
  • Any threaded connections may be national pipe thread tapered thread (NPT) or national pipe thread tapered thread fuel (NPTF) standard connections.
  • NPT national pipe thread tapered thread
  • NPTF national pipe thread tapered thread fuel
  • the threaded connections provide leak proof fittings mechanically, without the need for Teflon thread tape or similar applications.
  • controller 200 can be implemented in digital electronic circuitry, in computer hardware, firmware, and/or software.
  • implementation can be as a computer program product (i.e., a computer program tangibly embodied in an information carrier).
  • the implementation can, for example, be in a machine- readable storage device, for execution by, or to control the operation of, data processing apparatus.
  • the implementation can, for example, be a programmable processor, a computer, and/or multiple computers.
  • a computer program can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled and/or interpreted languages, and the computer program can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a subroutine, element, and/or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment.
  • a computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers at one site.
  • Method steps can be performed by one or more programmable processors executing a computer program to perform functions of the invention by operating on input data and generating output. Method steps can also be performed by and an apparatus can be implemented as special purpose logic circuitry.
  • the circuitry can, for example, be a FPGA (field programmable gate array) and/or an ASIC (application specific integrated circuit). Modules, subroutines, and software agents can refer to portions of the computer program, the processor, the special circuitry, software, and/or hardware that implement that functionality.
  • processors suitable for the execution of a computer program include, by way of example, both general and special purpose microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of digital computer.
  • a processor receives instructions and data from a readonly memory or a random access memory or both.
  • the essential elements of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data.
  • a computer can include, can be operatively coupled to receive data from and/or transfer data to one or more mass storage devices for storing data (e.g., magnetic, magneto-optical disks, optical disks, or solid state devices/memories).
  • Data transmission and instructions can also occur over a communications network.
  • Information carriers suitable for embodying computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, including by way of example semiconductor memory devices.
  • the information carriers can, for example, be EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory devices, magnetic disks, internal hard disks, removable disks, magneto-optical disks, CD- ROM, and/or DVD-ROM disks.
  • the processor and the memory can be supplemented by, and/or incorporated in special purpose logic circuitry.
  • the above described techniques can be implemented on a computer having a display device.
  • the display device can, for example, be a cathode ray tube (CRT) and/or a liquid crystal display (LCD) monitor.
  • CTR cathode ray tube
  • LCD liquid crystal display
  • the interaction with a viewer can, for example, be a display of information to the viewer and a keyboard and a pointing device (e.g., a mouse or a trackball) by which the viewer can provide input to the computer (e.g., interact with a viewer interface element).
  • Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a viewer.
  • Other devices can, for example, be feedback provided to the viewer in any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback).
  • Input from the viewer can, for example, be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, and/or tactile input.
  • the above described techniques can be implemented in a distributed computing system that includes a back-end component.
  • the back-end component can, for example, be a data server, a middleware component, and/or an application server.
  • the above described techniques can be implemented in a distributing computing system that includes a front-end component.
  • the front-end component can, for example, be a client computer having a graphical viewer interface, a Web browser through which a viewer can interact with an example
  • the components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication (e.g., a communication network).
  • Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a personal area network (PAM), the Internet, wired networks, and/or wireless networks.
  • the system can include clients and servers.
  • a client and a server are generally remote from each other and typically interact through a communication network.
  • the relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other.
  • the communication network can include, for example, a packet-based network and/or a circuit-based network.
  • Packet-based networks can include, for example, the Internet, a carrier internet protocol (IP) network (e.g., local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), campus area network (CAN), metropolitan area network (MAN), home area network (HAN)), a private IP network, an IP private branch exchange (IPBX), a wireless network (e.g., radio access network (RAN), 802.11 network, 802.16 network, general packet radio service (GPRS) network, HiperLAN), and/or other packet-based networks.
  • IP carrier internet protocol
  • LAN local area network
  • WAN wide area network
  • CAN campus area network
  • MAN metropolitan area network
  • HAN home area network
  • IP network IP private branch exchange
  • wireless network e.g., radio access network (RAN), 802.11 network, 802.16 network, general packet radio service (GPRS) network, HiperLAN
  • GPRS general packet radio service
  • Circuit-based networks can include, for example, the public switched telephone network (PSTN), a private branch exchange (PBX), a wireless network (e.g., Zigbee, bluetooth, time division multiple access (TDMA) network, global system for mobile communications (GSM) network), and/or other circuit-based networks.
  • PSTN public switched telephone network
  • PBX private branch exchange
  • TDMA time division multiple access
  • GSM global system for mobile communications
  • the communication device can include, for example, a computer, a computer with a browser device, a telephone, an IP phone, a mobile device (e.g., cellular phone, personal digital assistant (PDA) device, laptop computer, electronic mail device), and/or other type of communication device.
  • the browser device includes, for example, a computer (e.g., desktop computer, laptop computer) with a world wide web browser (e.g., Microsoft® Internet Explorer® available from Microsoft Corporation, Mozilla® Firefox available from Mozilla Corporation).
  • the mobile computing device includes, for example, a personal digital assistant (PDA).

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  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un appareil de distribution d'eau comprenant : une entrée principale conçue pour recevoir l'eau d'une source ; une conduite d'eau réfrigérée, comprenant : un saturateur en ligne ; une soupape d'entrée d'eau de saturateur conçue pour diriger sélectivement l'eau de l'entrée principale au saturateur ; une soupape d'entrée de gaz de saturateur conçue pour diriger sélectivement le gaz de saturation vers le saturateur ; et une sortie de conduite d'eau réfrigérée. L'appareil peut être intégré dans un réfrigérateur ou un autre appareil électroménager.
PCT/US2012/043797 2010-05-03 2012-06-22 Système de distribution d'eau WO2012178044A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (3)

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EP12802533.5A EP2724096A4 (fr) 2011-06-23 2012-06-22 Système de distribution d'eau
CN201280039931.1A CN103946653A (zh) 2011-06-23 2012-06-22 水分配系统
US14/138,712 US9309103B2 (en) 2010-05-03 2013-12-23 Water dispenser system

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US201161500440P 2011-06-23 2011-06-23
US201161500451P 2011-06-23 2011-06-23
US201161500469P 2011-06-23 2011-06-23
US201161500500P 2011-06-23 2011-06-23
US201161500461P 2011-06-23 2011-06-23
US61/500,451 2011-06-23
US61/500,461 2011-06-23
US61/500,440 2011-06-23
US61/500,500 2011-06-23
US61/500,469 2011-06-23
US201261654487P 2012-06-01 2012-06-01
US61/654,487 2012-06-01

Related Parent Applications (1)

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US12/772,641 Continuation-In-Part US8567767B2 (en) 2010-05-03 2010-05-03 Apparatuses, systems and methods for efficient solubilization of carbon dioxide in water using high energy impact

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US20140190991A1 (en) * 2013-01-10 2014-07-10 Xiaofeng Yang Front Room Beverage Dispense Apparatus
CN104019611A (zh) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-03 三星电子株式会社 冰箱及其控制方法
CN104019596A (zh) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-03 三星电子株式会社 冰箱及其控制方法
KR20140108813A (ko) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-15 삼성전자주식회사 탄산수 제조 장치를 갖춘 냉장고
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CN106029213A (zh) * 2014-02-19 2016-10-12 卢森堡专利公司 水基饮料的在线碳酸化
US20180352824A1 (en) * 2015-05-06 2018-12-13 La Colombe Torrefaction, Inc. Foaming pressurized beverage
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WO2020193376A1 (fr) * 2019-03-26 2020-10-01 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Système de boisson pour la préparation d'une boisson au moyen d'une capsule
EP3795534A1 (fr) * 2019-09-18 2021-03-24 Brita GmbH Méthode d'opération pour le soutirage de l'eau carbonatée
US11225406B2 (en) 2014-08-14 2022-01-18 Heineken Uk Limited Beverage dispense systems and beverage coolers
EP3969408A4 (fr) * 2019-05-17 2023-07-05 PepsiCo, Inc. Station de distribution d'eau
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CN104019596A (zh) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-03 三星电子株式会社 冰箱及其控制方法
KR20140108813A (ko) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-15 삼성전자주식회사 탄산수 제조 장치를 갖춘 냉장고
EP2772710A3 (fr) * 2013-02-28 2015-04-01 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd Réfrigérateur équipé d'un appareil de production d'eau gazéifiée
EP2772714A3 (fr) * 2013-02-28 2015-04-08 Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. Réfrigérateur équipé d'un appareil de production d'eau gazéifiée
KR102028023B1 (ko) * 2013-02-28 2019-10-04 삼성전자주식회사 탄산수 제조 장치를 갖춘 냉장고
CN104019611A (zh) * 2013-02-28 2014-09-03 三星电子株式会社 冰箱及其控制方法
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CN104019611B (zh) * 2013-02-28 2020-01-17 三星电子株式会社 冰箱及其控制方法
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CN103690044A (zh) * 2013-12-13 2014-04-02 宁波瑞易电器科技发展有限公司 一种新型苏打饮料机
CN103720358A (zh) * 2013-12-20 2014-04-16 宁波瑞易电器科技发展有限公司 具有网兜结构的苏打水机
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EP3584525A1 (fr) * 2014-02-11 2019-12-25 LG Electronics Inc. Réfrigérateur
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CN106029213A (zh) * 2014-02-19 2016-10-12 卢森堡专利公司 水基饮料的在线碳酸化
US11225406B2 (en) 2014-08-14 2022-01-18 Heineken Uk Limited Beverage dispense systems and beverage coolers
US10893683B2 (en) 2015-05-06 2021-01-19 La Colombe Torrefaction, Inc. Foaming pressurized beverage
US20180352824A1 (en) * 2015-05-06 2018-12-13 La Colombe Torrefaction, Inc. Foaming pressurized beverage
US10729151B2 (en) * 2015-05-06 2020-08-04 La Colombe Torrefaction, Inc. Foaming pressurized beverage
WO2019169485A1 (fr) * 2018-03-05 2019-09-12 Groupe Opuit Inc. Appareil de distribution de boisson et procédé de distribution de boisson faisant appel audit appareil
WO2020193376A1 (fr) * 2019-03-26 2020-10-01 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Système de boisson pour la préparation d'une boisson au moyen d'une capsule
EP3969408A4 (fr) * 2019-05-17 2023-07-05 PepsiCo, Inc. Station de distribution d'eau
CN114502502A (zh) * 2019-09-18 2022-05-13 碧然德有限公司 水分配器
WO2021052715A1 (fr) * 2019-09-18 2021-03-25 Brita Gmbh Distributeur d'eau
EP3795534A1 (fr) * 2019-09-18 2021-03-24 Brita GmbH Méthode d'opération pour le soutirage de l'eau carbonatée
IT202200009521A1 (it) * 2022-05-09 2023-11-09 Onn Water S R L Dispositivo distributore di acqua potabile
WO2023218337A1 (fr) * 2022-05-09 2023-11-16 Onn Water S.R.L. Distributeur d'eau potable
EP4361361A1 (fr) * 2022-10-31 2024-05-01 Xiamen Aquasu Electric Shower Co., Ltd. Equipement de sortie d'eau installé dans un espace étroit, procédé d'installation et procédé d'assemblage de celui-ci
CN117258401A (zh) * 2023-11-21 2023-12-22 日丰新材有限公司 前置过滤器和应用、给水管道系统
CN117258401B (zh) * 2023-11-21 2024-04-05 日丰新材有限公司 前置过滤器和应用、给水管道系统

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EP2724096A1 (fr) 2014-04-30
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