CONSTRUCTION LAYOUT APPLIED IN INDUSTRIAL DRINKING FOUNTAIN

Description

1 / 9 CONSTRUCTION LAYOUT APPLIED TO AN INDUSTRIAL DRINKING FOUNTAIN FIELD OF APPLICATION

[001] The present utility model patent aims at a large-capacity water fountain, tower type, with an octagonal base, with 8 (eight) taps, each with 2 (two) mechanical actuators (button or pedal) each tap, one for natural water and the other for chilled water, with the option of installing a pet water fountain and flexible LED panel, controlled by NUC, with a reservoir with a capacity of 1000 liters, for use in industrial installations, and to which an original construction was given, with a view to improving its use and efficiency in relation to existing similar products. BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT MODEL

[002] Drinking fountains comprising a conventional refrigeration system, consisting of a compressor, gas and an expansion valve, are already known.

[003] Despite the widespread use of these types of drinking fountains, some drawbacks can be attributed to them, such as high production costs, environmental pollution, and low cooling capacity for large drinking fountains.

[004] In this sense, some inventors conceived the products that are the subject of the patent documents indicated below, but they did not pay attention to the details listed above. STATE OF THE ART

[005] Patent document MU 7502666-0 published on 12 / 05 / 1998 teaches a semi / industrial drinking fountain composed of a refrigeration unit, with a compressor motor, and a condensing unit, with a fan, and equipped with a carbon filter for Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 6 / 43 2 / 9 It has a capacity of 180 liters / hour and consists of two water tanks: one made of resistant material for water, and the other, with thermal insulation, serving as protection for the first. It features a tiled countertop for better maintenance and hygiene of the equipment, and includes an electrical circuit with a protective switch for greater protection of the compressor motor, thus improving the lifespan of the entire refrigeration system.

[006] Patent document BR 20 2012 005415 4 published on 04 / 08 / 2015 teaches a constructive arrangement applied to an industrial water cooler belonging to the field of industrial equipment for liquid refrigeration, comprising a set that functions by capturing, refrigerating and storing large quantities of potable water, the reservoir being made up of a virgin plastic gallon with a screw cap and copper or stainless steel coil covered with polyurethane foam and PVC tape, the electrical refrigeration assembly consisting of an electric motor, micromotor, condenser and thermostat, all installed in a structure covered by sheets, its front exterior part being provided with chilled water and natural water taps with spheres as well as a tray and basin made of sheets, the reservoir being supplied by the utility company's network passing first through an activated carbon filter.

[007] Patent document BR 20 2015 019036 6 published on 03 / 20 / 2018 teaches an industrial water fountain equipped with an electronic foot-operated activation device, presence sensor and continuous supply system of natural, chilled and especially hot water, intended for environments with a large flow of people, such as industries, companies, schools, churches, public places and others, in order to provide the use of the water fountain without contact with Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 7 / 43 3 / 9 the users' hands, providing practicality, convenience, hygiene and safety.

[008] Analyzing the aforementioned documents and known state-of-the-art documents, as can be observed, none fully presents the constructive characteristics of the industrial water cooler that is the subject of this patent. There is no knowledge of similar products with the innovation of evaporative cooling and the alternative application of a flexible LED panel, with 360° visualization, controlled by a NUC, connected to the Wi-Fi network, in an octagonal shape and with a reservoir with a water cooling capacity greater than 1000L.

[009] In view of these problems and with the purpose of overcoming them, the present arrangement in an industrial water cooler, the subject of this patent, was developed, which consists of providing equipment that is an advance in the water cooler sector intended for the provision of filtered water in large environments, integrating advanced technology and innovation. Evaporative plate cooling facilitates reservoir cleaning and provides greater efficiency in heat exchange. To ensure that all the liquid is cooled uniformly, the water cooler uses a pump for constant water circulation. This cooling technology has a flat surface with rounded corners without sharp edges, facilitating asepsis and preventing the accumulation of bacteria, residues and impurities.

[010] This water fountain is ideal for high-demand locations such as public offices, schools, shopping malls, gyms, and large events with large crowds. The 8 or more dispensers, activated by buttons or mechanical pedals, offer chilled and room temperature water, ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users and other people with special needs, as well as promoting the use of reusable water bottles. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 8 / 43 4 / 9 reusable water bottles, encouraging more sustainable water consumption.

[011] The drinking fountain model that is the subject of this patent is developed with a robust structure in AISI 304 stainless steel or carbon steel with epoxy paint, has a minimum capacity of 800 liters and is suitable for environments that require simultaneous energy and water supply.

[012] The drinking fountain has an imposing design, with approximate dimensions of 2.60 meters in height and 1.30 meters in diameter. These measurements ensure that the equipment is accessible and functional in busy spaces. The structure has leveling feet.

[013] Equipped with 8 strategically positioned dispensers for easy simultaneous use, the model offers filtered water at chilled (3-10°C) and ambient (approximately 25°C) temperatures. The dispensers are activated by buttons and mechanical pedals, ensuring continued operation even in the event of a power outage, providing practicality and system reliability. The buttons are clearly identified as Chilled and Natural and have LED lighting.

[014] To ensure a consistent supply of chilled water, this water cooler features a large condensing unit and a hermetically sealed refrigeration system. The unit operates with environmentally friendly R-22 refrigerant gas, and the internal reservoir is made of AISI 304 stainless steel with expanded polyurethane insulation, maximizing thermal efficiency and maintaining the water at the ideal temperature for use.

[015] This model includes the possibility of installing a 360° media screen, designed for high-resolution advertising. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 9 / 43 5 / 9 resolution, visible from any angle. The screen, equipped with LED technology, allows the display of video content and images in vibrant colors, offering a differentiated platform for brand promotion. The screen is connected to the system via Wi-Fi, allowing remote updates and simplifying content management.

[016] With the aim of promoting sustainable practices, the model encourages the use of reusable water bottles, reducing the need for disposable cups. This ecological feature aims to contribute to the reduction of plastic waste and associate the use of the water fountain with more conscious and responsible consumption, reinforcing the positive image of the brands advertised on the screen.

[017] The external structure has an access door with keyed locks, ensuring security and control over access to the internal compartment. The water inlet and outlet connections are identified, and the control panel allows for temperature and other settings.

[018] This new model also encourages the conscious use of reusable bottles, promoting sustainable practices by reducing the consumption of disposable cups.

[019] In addition to providing filtered water at room temperature and chilled (average temperature between 3 and 10°C), the equipment has the possibility of exploring the use of interactive images in a commercial way or simply to provide information based on the needs of each client, such as advertisements, photos, advertising appeals, notices, pronouncements, etc.

[020] The refrigeration system consists of two plates placed one on top of the other, which form the chambers through which the refrigerant fluid circulates to cool the liquid.

[021] The activation of the water outlet dispensers is done by Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 10 / 43 6 / 9 via mechanical buttons and / or pedals, eliminating the need for electricity to provide this water flow, and allowing for the installation of a pet water fountain.

[022] In devices with a media screen, messages are received through the Intel NUC processor via WIFI internet signal, sent from a base connected to the LED display, this system being equipped with a security password. This is a high-performance and secure system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[023] The attached drawings show the arrangement in an industrial drinking fountain, the subject of this patent, in which: Figure 1 represents the front and side views of the drinking fountain. The front and side views are identical. Figure 2 represents the rear view of the drinking fountain. Figure 3 represents the bottom view of the drinking fountain. Figure 4 represents the top view of the drinking fountain. Figure 5 represents a front perspective view of the drinking fountain. Figure 6 represents the cross-sectional view AA' of the equipment, detailing internal parts. Figure 7 represents the cross-sectional view BB' of the equipment, detailing internal parts. Figures 8, 9 and 10 represent detailed cross-sectional views of the expansion plate. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODEL

[024] In accordance with what is illustrated in the figures above, and in their details, the industrial drinking fountain object of the present patent consists of a water reservoir (1), insulation (1a) and evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b), with 360° LED screen, or printed media, provided on top with handles (2) for lifting. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 11 / 43 7 / 9 loading / unloading, with external structure (3) in carbon steel with epoxy paint or 304 AISI or 430 stainless steel, 1 mm thick, provided with taps (4a) and (4b) operated by buttons and / or mechanical pedals identified (“Cold” and “Natural”) and niches for the dispensers (5), composed of water outlet nozzles (5a), LED lighting (5b) and squeeze identification stickers (5c), all in brushed 304 AISI stainless steel for cold and natural water, illuminated by LED and with squeeze identification sticker.

[025] Featuring ventilation openings (6), leveling feet (7) in Zinc Plated Carbon Steel and keyed lock (8) for the rear door, it consists of a lower base (9) and an upper cover (10) for closing the reservoir (1).

[026] On the side it is provided with product identification plate (11), LED lights (12) and internally with control panel (13) for condenser and evaporator unit (14), together with air blower (14a) and metal structure for fixing it (14b), liquid tank (15), compressor (16), junction box (17), circuit breaker (18), dryer filter (19) and high and low pressure switch (20).

[027] Discharge pipe (21) R22 gas and return pipe (22) R22 gas.

[028] The tank (1) has a float (23), the evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b) being connected to the motor pump (24), together with the body (24a) of the pump (24), said float (23) being connected by water supply connections (29) to the activated carbon filter (25) and said evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b) being connected by the drain pipe (31) with butterfly type valve (26).

[029] From the pump (24) come the water return connections (28) and ball valve (27) and to the pump (24) comes the water supply pipe (30) from the bottom of the tank (1) and plate Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 12 / 43 8 / 9 evaporative heat exchanger (1b).

[030] The drinking fountain has a grounded power supply cable (32), induction welding points (33), continuous induction welding seam (34), inner wall (35) of the reservoir and outer wall (36) of the reservoir.

[031] In the present provision, the operation of the drinking fountain begins with the supply of water, coming from a public or private system. The first aspect to highlight is that all the water that enters the system passes through a filter, guaranteeing its suitability for human consumption.

[032] Simultaneously with the water supply, it is necessary to connect the equipment to the electrical network, allowing the electrical and mechanical parts to function. With the system active, the desired temperature is set via the control panel. This, in turn, transmits the instructions to the junction box, which relays the information to the components of the refrigeration unit, thus starting the refrigeration system.

[033] After the water is filtered, it can follow two different paths. The first corresponds to “natural water”, which does not require refrigeration. In this case, the water is directed directly to the activation buttons or pedals, awaiting release to the dispensers as mechanically activated by users.

[034] The second path is for chilled water. The water, initially filtered and at room temperature, flows to the upper reservoir, filling it until it reaches maximum capacity, at which point the level float stops the water from entering.

[035] To carry out the cooling process, the refrigerant gas circulates in the expanding plate, where heat exchange occurs. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 13 / 43 9 / 9 with the stored water. In order to guarantee uniform cooling throughout the entire volume of the reservoir, a motor pump is used to keep the water in constant circulation.

[036] Finally, when the chilled water option is activated, the water is released from the reservoir and directed to the activation buttons or pedals, until it reaches the dispenser selected by the user.

[037] Thus, the water fountain works like usual ones, with the difference that its cooling is done by evaporative plate, with the possibility of installing a PET water fountain and applying a Flexible LED panel, with 360° viewing, controlled by NUC, connected to the Wi-Fi network, in octagonal shape and with a reservoir with a water cooling capacity of over 1000L, significantly improving its function.

[038] Logically, the drinking fountain with such construction can be obtained in various sizes and capacities to meet different needs of users of this type of equipment. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 14 / 43

Claims

1 / 2 CLAIM 1 - CONSTRUCTIONAL ARRANGEMENT APPLIED TO AN INDUSTRIAL WATER COOLER characterized by being constituted by a water reservoir (1), insulation (1a) and evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b), with a 360° LED screen, or printed media, provided on top with handles (2) for lifting loading / unloading, with an external structure (3) in carbon steel with epoxy paint or 304 AISI or 430 stainless steel, 1 mm thick, provided with taps (4a) and (4b) operated by buttons and / or mechanical pedals identified (“Cold” and “Natural”) and niches for the dispensers (5), composed of water outlet nozzles (5a), LED lighting (5b) and identification stickers for the squeeze bottle (5c), all in brushed 304 AISI stainless steel for cold and natural water, illuminated by LED and with an identification sticker. squeeze;having ventilation openings (6), leveling feet (7) in Zinc-plated Carbon Steel and keyed lock (8) on the rear door, it is composed of a lower base (9) and an upper cover (10) for closing the reservoir (1); on the side it is provided with a product identification plate (11), LED lights (12) and internally with a control panel (13) for the condenser and evaporator unit (14) together with the air blower (14a) and metal structure for fixing it (14b), liquid tank (15), compressor (16), junction box (17), circuit breaker (18), dryer filter (19) and high and low pressure switch (20); having R22 Gas discharge piping (21) and R22 Gas return piping (22);the tank (1) having a float (23), the evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b) being connected to the motor pump (24), said float (23) being connected by water supply connections (29) to the activated carbon filter (25) and said evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b) being connected by the drain pipe (31) with butterfly type valve (26); from the pump (24) come the connections of Petition 870250016332, of 27 / 02 / 2025, page 15 / 43; 2 / 2 return (28) of water and ball valve (27) and for the pump (24) the water supply pipe (30) from the bottom of the tank (1) and evaporative heat exchanger plate (1b); drinking fountain have power supply cable (32) with grounding, induction welding points (33), continuous induction welding seam (34), inner wall (35) of the reservoir and outer wall (36) of the reservoir. Petition 870250016332, dated 27 / 02 / 2025, page 16 / 43

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