Distributor system and distribution method

Abstract

A dispenser system and a dispensing method are disclosed, wherein the dispenser system includes a first container configured to hold a first fluid, a second container configured to hold a second fluid, a faucet coupled with the first and second containers via first and second hoses, respectively, and including first and second switches mounted on the faucet, and a controller configured to control dispensing of the first and second fluids through the faucet. When the first switch is on and the second switch is off, the controller dispenses the first fluid through the first hose to the faucet. When the first switch is off and the second switch is on, the controller dispenses the second fluid through the second hose to the faucet. The dispenser system is configured and dimensioned to prevent cross-contamination between the first and second hoses.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to fluid distribution systems and methods for distributing different types of fluids, wherein one type of fluid may include gas. Background Technology

[0002] Consumers typically consume large quantities of beverages daily, including coffee, soft drinks, sodas, juices, tea, water, energy drinks, flavored water, and many others. To maintain an adequate supply of these beverages, consumers must constantly replenish their homes with various bottled and canned drinks, or prepare beverages at home, such as coffee, tea, iced tea, lemonade, carbonated water, or flavored water. These tasks can be relatively arduous for households with high beverage consumption, partly because beverage containers are often heavy, take up considerable space in their refrigerators, and the time spent preparing beverages each year can be substantial. Furthermore, as noted above, the financial and time costs of purchasing these beverages annually can be significant.

[0003] Commercial beverage dispensing machines and systems for monitoring such machines are well known. Certain types of non-commercial beverage dispensing systems are also well known, such as countertop beverage dispensing systems.

[0004] Many traditional refrigerators are equipped with ice makers and water dispensers for dispensing ice and filtered water. It is also known that refrigerators can be used to dispense other beverages. This system reduces the need for consumers to store beverage containers in their refrigerators because it uses concentrated beverage dispenser packets or syrups. However, consumers using this type of system must track the levels of beverage dispenser packets or syrups, as well as CO2 levels, and must regularly purchase these dispenser packets or syrups and CO2 gas packets. Furthermore, such systems are not easily adapted for dispensing multiple beverages, allowing users to easily switch between beverages or facilitate the transport of beverage dispenser packets without cross-contamination. Therefore, an improved beverage dispensing and serving system for home or residential use is needed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention generally relates to fluid distribution systems, methods for distributing different types of fluids, and methods for squeezing out any remaining fluid from the distribution tube after complete fluid distribution.

[0006] According to various aspects of the present invention, a dispenser system for dispensing different types of fluids is provided. The dispenser system includes: a first container configured to contain a first fluid; a second container configured to contain a second fluid; a faucet connected to the first and second containers respectively via a first hose and a second hose, and the faucet including a first switch and a second switch mounted on the faucet; and a controller configured to control the dispensing of the first and second fluids through the faucet. When the first switch is on and the second switch is off, the controller dispenses the first fluid through the first hose to the faucet. When the first switch is off and the second switch is on, the controller dispenses the second fluid through the second hose to the faucet. The dispenser system is configured and sized to prevent cross-contamination between the first and second hoses.

[0007] In all respects, the primary fluid is tap water.

[0008] In various respects, the distributor system further includes a pump configured to supply air to the second hose when the second switch is off.

[0009] In various aspects, the dispenser system further includes a filter configured to filter the first fluid. When the second switch is turned on simultaneously with the first switch, the controller stops dispensing the first fluid into the first hose and begins dispensing the filtered first fluid through the second hose to the faucet.

[0010] In all respects, when the second switch is turned off, the remaining filtered first fluid in the second hose is discharged based on the supplied air.

[0011] In all respects, the second container includes a second valve configured to open the second container.

[0012] In all respects, the second container includes a second pump configured to supply air to the second container.

[0013] In all respects, when the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second pump supplies air to the second container to supply the second fluid to the second hose.

[0014] In all respects, the second valve is mechanically opened or closed.

[0015] In all aspects, the second switch sends an electrical signal to the second valve, causing the second valve to be opened or closed electrically.

[0016] In all respects, the second valve closes when the second switch is turned off.

[0017] In all respects, when the second switch is turned off, the remaining second fluid in the second hose is discharged based on the supplied air.

[0018] In all respects, the gas is released from the second fluid in the second container.

[0019] In every respect, the gas is carbon dioxide.

[0020] In all respects, when the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second container supplies the second fluid to the second hose based on the pressure caused by the gas released from the second fluid.

[0021] According to various aspects of the present invention, a method is provided for dispensing a first fluid contained in a first container or a second fluid contained in a second container via a faucet, the faucet being connected to the first container and the second container respectively via a first hose and a second hose, and the faucet including a first switch and a second switch mounted on the faucet. The method includes: receiving a signal from the first switch indicating that the first switch is on or off; receiving a signal from the second switch indicating that the second switch is on or off; dispensing the first fluid to the faucet through the first hose when the first switch is on and the second switch is off; and dispensing the second fluid to the faucet through the second hose when the first switch is off and the second switch is on. This prevents contamination between the first hose and the second hose.

[0022] In all respects, the primary fluid is tap water.

[0023] In various respects, the method further includes supplying air to the second hose when the second switch is open.

[0024] In various respects, the method further includes: filtering the first fluid, and stopping the dispensing of the first fluid to the first hose and starting the dispensing of the filtered first fluid to the faucet through the second hose when the second switch is turned on at the same time as the first switch is turned on.

[0025] In various respects, the method further includes: when the second switch is turned off, discharging the remaining filtered first fluid in the second hose based on the supplied air.

[0026] In various respects, the method further includes supplying air to the second container.

[0027] In various respects, the method further includes: supplying a second fluid to a second hose based on the air supplied to the second container when the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off.

[0028] In various respects, the method further includes: when the second switch is turned off, discharging the remaining second fluid in the second hose based on the air supplied to the second hose.

[0029] In all respects, the gas is released from the second fluid in the second container.

[0030] In every respect, the gas is carbon dioxide.

[0031] In various respects, the method further includes: when the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, supplying the second fluid to the second hose based on the pressure caused by the gas released from the second fluid.

[0032] Details of one or more aspects of the invention are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features, objects, and advantages of the technology described herein will be apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a fluid distribution system for distributing fluid according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 2 This is a flowchart for distributing fluid according to various aspects of the present invention;

[0035] Figures 3A to 3C This is a flowchart for distributing fluid according to various aspects of the present invention; and

[0036] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a computing device according to various aspects of the present invention, which distributes fluid and squeezes out the remaining fluid in the tube. Detailed Implementation

[0037] Fluids can be dispensed manually or electrically using a dispensing device. In cases where a gas (e.g., carbon dioxide) is dissolved in the fluid, the fluid can be dispensed via a pipe through a tap based on the pressure caused by the released gas. In another case where the fluid does not contain dissolved gas, air can be supplied to the container, and the fluid can be dispensed via a pipe through a tap based on the pressure caused by the supplied air. After complete fluid dispensing, any remaining fluid in the pipe connecting the container and the tap can be automatically expelled by a pump.

[0038] Figure 1 A block diagram of a fluid dispensing system 100 according to various aspects of the present invention is shown. The dispensing system 100 may include a faucet 110, a first dispensing switch 120, a second dispensing switch 125, a controller 130, a first container 140, and a second container 150. The faucet 110 may include a first faucet hose 170 and a second faucet hose 180 as channels for dispensing fluid. When the first dispensing switch 120 is pressed or closed, a first fluid can be dispensed from the first container 140 through the first faucet hose 170 to the faucet 110. When the second dispensing switch 125 is pressed or closed, a second fluid can be dispensed from the second container 150 through the second faucet hose 180 to the faucet 110.

[0039] Tap 110 may be a pull-down tap. Tap 110 may not require a handle for manual opening and closing. The nozzle of tap 110 may include all types of flow rates, such as a sprayer depending on the liquid being dispensed, a high flow rate, or a gentler flow rate. In an embodiment, when the fluid is beer, the nozzle of tap 110 includes a slower flow rate to avoid foaming.

[0040] The first distribution switch 120 and the second distribution switch 125 can be toggle switches, such that another push can stop the distribution of fluid. In one aspect, the first distribution switch 120 and the second distribution switch 125 can be activated when the first distribution switch 120 and the second distribution switch 125 are pressed for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 0.5 seconds or longer), thereby preventing accidental activation of the first distribution switch 120 and the second distribution switch 125.

[0041] The first faucet hose 170 and the second faucet hose 180 can be separately and independently installed within the faucet 110, so that the fluids in the first faucet hose 170 and the second faucet hose 180 cannot mix in the faucet 110. In other words, the fluids in the first faucet hose 170 and the second faucet hose 180 cannot cross-contaminate each other.

[0042] In an embodiment, the fluid distribution system 100 may include at least two or more containers, depending on the desired quantity of different types of fluid. Optionally, a third container 160 may be added, and a corresponding third switch 127 may also be added. The first container 140 may be a representative container holding a first type of fluid (“first fluid”), which may be tap water.

[0043] The first container 140 may include a pump 142 configured to supply or remove air from the first container 140. The pump 142 may be coupled to a pressure button 144. When the pressure in the first container 140 is below a predetermined pressure and the pressure button 144 is pressed, the pump 142 may supply air into the first container 140, thereby adjusting the pressure to the predetermined pressure. When the pressure is above the predetermined pressure and the pressure button 144 is pressed, the pump 142 may release air from the first container 140, thereby reducing the pressure to the predetermined pressure.

[0044] The first container 140 may include a valve 148, which may be electrically or mechanically operated. When the first dispensing switch 120 is turned on, if the valve 148 is electrically operated, an electrical signal can be transmitted to the controller 130 to open the valve 148. If the valve 148 is mechanically operated, the valve 148 may be mechanically opened and normally held in the open position, such that when the first dispensing switch 120 is turned on or pressed, a first fluid is automatically supplied to the first faucet hose 170.

[0045] The first fluid can be filtered by a filter 192 installed along the bypass pipe 149'. If the first fluid is tap water, the filter 192 filters the tap water along the bypass pipe 149', and the filtered water can be supplied to the second faucet hose 180 in the faucet 110. The filter 192 can be a permeable filter, an ozone generator, or any type of filter that can remove contaminants and chemicals from the tap water. In one aspect, the filter 192 can be installed anywhere between the first pipe 149 and the opening of the faucet 110. In another aspect, the filter 192 can be a single-filter system, a dual-filter system, or a multi-filter system.

[0046] To supply filtered fluid, the first distribution switch 120 must first be turned on to supply tap water through the first faucet hose 170. When the first distribution switch 120 is turned on, the second switch is then turned on to supply filtered fluid. Specifically, when the second switch is turned on simultaneously with the first switch, the tap water supply is stopped, and the tap water is redirected to the bypass pipe 149', allowing it to pass through the filter 192 and supply filtered water to the second faucet hose 180. In this case, when the second distribution switch 125 is turned off, the tap water redirects back to the first pipe 149 and the first faucet hose 170, so that tap water and filtered water are supplied to different faucet hoses. In other words, tap water and filtered water cannot mix in the faucet 110, preventing cross-contamination between them.

[0047] After a sufficient supply of filtered water has been provided, the second switch can be turned off. Then, pump 142 can supply air to the bypass pipe 149' and the second faucet hose 180, allowing any remaining filtered water in the bypass pipe 149' and the second faucet hose 180 to drain. In this way, no fluid remains in the bypass pipe 149' and the second faucet hose 180 after the filtered water supply is complete, thus preventing possible fermentation or contamination in the bypass pipe 149' and the second faucet hose 180 when the system is not in use.

[0048] The second container 150 may contain a second type of fluid (“second fluid”) containing dissolved gases. For example, the second fluid may include beer, soda water, nitro coffee, carbonated water, etc. On the other hand, the second container 150 may also contain a third type of fluid (“third fluid”) that does not contain dissolved gases. For example, the third fluid may include cold brew coffee, wine, alcoholic beverages, tea, etc.

[0049] The second container 150 may include a pressure button 154, a cooling button 156, and a valve 158. When a user wants to consume the second fluid, the user can turn on the valve 158. The second fluid may release gas while being contained in the second container 150. The released gas can increase the pressure in the second container 150. This pressure can be used to dispense the second fluid. When the second dispensing switch 125 is turned on and the first dispensing switch 120 remains off, the second fluid is then dispensed via the second pipe 159 to the second faucet hose 180 in the faucet 110 due to the pressure caused by the released gas in the second container 150.

[0050] Burst dispensing occurs when the pressure inside the second container 150 is higher than a predetermined pressure suitable for dispensing the second fluid, and when the pressure is lower than the predetermined pressure, the second fluid may not be dispensed at full capacity. Therefore, when the pressure differs from the predetermined pressure, the pressure can be adjusted to the predetermined pressure by pressing the pressure button 154.

[0051] The second container 150 further includes a pump 152 configured to supply or remove air from the second container 150. The pump 152 can be coupled to a pressure button 154. When the pressure is below a predetermined pressure and the pressure button 154 is pressed, the pump 152 can supply air to the second container 150, thereby adjusting the pressure to the predetermined pressure. When the pressure is above the predetermined pressure and the pressure button 154 is pressed, the pump 152 can release gas or air from the second container 150, thereby reducing the pressure to the predetermined pressure.

[0052] On one hand, pump 152 can supply the second container 150 with the same gas as the gas released from the second fluid. By supplying the same gas, the taste or flavor of the second fluid can be well preserved in the second container 150.

[0053] After the second fluid has been fully dispensed, pump 152 can further supply air to the second pipe 159. By increasing the pressure within the second pipe 159, any remaining second fluid in the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180 can be expelled. Specifically, the second fluid is supplied to the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180 when the second dispensing switch 125 is on and the first switch remains off. After dispensing the second fluid, the second dispensing switch 125 can be off. Then, the second valve 158 can also be off, and pump 152 can automatically supply air to the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180, thereby removing any remaining fluid from the second pipe and the second faucet hose. In this way, the possibility of fermentation or alteration of the second fluid within the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180 can be prevented or reduced. Furthermore, cross-contamination between the fluids in the first faucet hose 170 and the second faucet hose 180 is prevented.

[0054] The cooling button 156 controls the temperature of the second fluid in the second container 150. Generally, beverages are consumed satisfactorily when drunk at a certain temperature. For example, the ideal temperature for beer can be below 60°F, 45°F, or 10°F. Therefore, by pressing the cooling button 156, the temperature of the second fluid can be adjusted to the ideal temperature.

[0055] Button 156 can be connected to a compressor (not shown) that compresses the refrigerant to lower the temperature of the second fluid by 5 degrees. Other mechanisms that can be readily understood by those skilled in the art can also be used to cool the fluid or container.

[0056] On one hand, the second fluid can be electrically distributed. In this case, valve 158 can be electrically rotated to an open or closed state. That is, when the second distribution switch 125 is pressed for at least a predetermined time period (e.g., 0.5 seconds), an electrical signal is transmitted to controller 130 to turn valve 158 on or off. When it is on, the fluid is distributed by...

[0057] Due to the pressure caused by the gas released from the second fluid, the second fluid can be distributed to the second faucet hose 180 in the faucet 110.

[0058] When the second container 150 contains a third fluid that does not dissolve gas, the pump 152 can control the pressure in the second container 150 by supplying air to the second container 150. Therefore, when the second dispensing switch 125 is pressed or turned on, the third fluid can be dispensed into the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180 in the faucet 110. Any remaining third fluid can be removed in the same manner as the second fluid.

[0059] 5. When more than two fluids need to be supplied through faucet 110, more than two containers and more than two switches can be installed. For example... Figure 1 As shown, for example, the third container 160 and the third switch 127 are shown in gray to indicate that they are optional. In one respect, the number of containers can be equal to the number of switches installed on the tap 110.

[0060] Similar to the second container 150, the third container 160 may include a pump 162, a pressure button 164, a cooling button 166, a third valve 168, and a third pipe 169. These components of the third container 160 operate similarly to those of the second container 150. Therefore, a description of it is omitted here and can be found in the description of the second container 150.

[0061] On one hand, faucet 110 may include a handle or valve for manual control of fluid dispensing. Even when faucet switches 120 and 125 and container valves 148 and 158 are open or closed, the first and second fluids can be dispensed only when...

[0062] Dispensing occurs when the handle or valve is opened or moved to the OFF position. When the amount of fluid to be dispensed is unknown, the user of the dispensing system 1005 can dispense the required amount of first or second fluid. When the handle or valve is manually closed by the user, another electrical signal can be transmitted to valve 148 or 158, causing valve 148 or 158 to close.

[0063] Furthermore, when the handle or valve is manually closed, an electrical signal indicating completion of dispensing is transmitted to pumps 142 and 152. When appropriate, pumps 142 or 152 can supply air to the bypass pipe 149' or the second pipe 159 and the second faucet hose 180, respectively, thereby removing or displacing residual fluid from the corresponding pipe and faucet hose. In other words, the pump can perform a self-cleaning action on any remaining fluid in the pipes.

[0064] The controller 130 can control the distribution of fluids and the remaining fluid in the extrusion tube. The controller 130 can also control the temperatures of the first, second, and third fluids. When the first distribution switch 120 is pressed, the controller 130 can transmit an electrical signal to the corresponding element. For example, when the first fluid is selected and the first distribution switch 120 is pressed, the controller 130 can control the temperature of the third fluid to match the temperature of the first fluid.

[0065] On one hand, the controller 130 can check the pressure and temperature of the first container 140 and the second container 150. When the pressure and temperature of the first container 140 and the second container 150 are not within a suitable range, the controller 130 can electrically activate the pressure buttons 144 and 154 and the temperature buttons 146 and 156 to adjust the temperature and pressure in the first container 140 and the second container 150 to a predetermined suitable range.

[0066] The controller 130 can also check whether the first container 140 and the second container 150 contain sufficient amounts of the first fluid and the second fluid. When there is insufficient fluid in the first container 140 and the second container 150, the controller 130 can provide an alert to the user of the dispensing system 100. The alert can be a color or light indicator and can be provided on a display screen or can be an audible indicator emitted from a speaker integrated into the display screen. In one aspect, the alert can be a flashing red light or an audible sound to attract the user's attention.

[0067] refer to Figure 2A method 200 for dispensing different types of fluids according to various aspects of the invention is provided. Method 200 may include, in step 210, first checking whether a first container and a second container respectively contain predetermined amounts of a first fluid and a second fluid. The first fluid and the second fluid may be different from each other. The second fluid may include a gas dissolved therein, while the first fluid may not. In this respect, the second fluid may be dispensed by the pressure generated by the gas released from the second fluid, and the first fluid may be dispensed by the pressure supplied by a pump.

[0068] When it is determined that the first or second container does not contain a sufficient amount of fluid, an insufficiency warning can be provided in step 220. In one aspect, the warning may be displayed on a screen mounted on the respective container or on a dispensing switch on a faucet. In another aspect, the warning may be a flashing or steady red light. In yet another aspect, the warning may be an audible sound to attract the user's attention.

[0069] In step 230, the fluid is refilled, and a fluid check is also performed in step 210. In this way, an alert can be maintained until the fluid is refilled to the predetermined amount.

[0070] When it is determined that the first container and the second container each contain a sufficient amount of fluid, the first fluid or the second fluid is dispensed in step 240. The following can be found... Figures 3A to 3C The description contains a detailed description of the process for distributing the first and second fluids.

[0071] The user can choose between a first fluid and a second fluid for dispensing. In step 250, it is determined whether the selected fluid has been fully dispensed. In steps 240 and 250, the selected fluid can be dispensed until completion. On one hand, in step 250, the user can manually stop the dispensing of the selected fluid by turning off the dispensing switch. On the other hand, the user can select a predetermined amount based on the size of the cup or glass. In this case, the dispensing of the selected amount can be completed by automatically turning off the dispensing switch.

[0072] After the selected fluid is dispensed, step 260 determines whether the second switch is turned on. If the second switch is not turned on, method 200 is complete.

[0073] When the second switch is determined to be on in step 260, air is supplied to the distribution pipe and the second faucet hose for distributing the selected fluid in step 270. If the first distribution switch is also on, the distribution pipe may be a detour pipe connecting the first container and the second faucet hose; if the first distribution switch is off, the distribution pipe may be a second pipe connecting the second container and the second faucet hose.

[0074] Since some of the selected fluid may remain in the dispensing tube and the second faucet hose after dispensing, in step 280, the remaining fluid can be expelled from the tube by pressure generated by the supplied air. When both the first and second dispensing switches are on, the selected fluid can be the filtered first fluid, or when only the second dispensing switch is on, the selected fluid can be the second fluid. This significantly reduces the possibility of fermentation or contamination in the tube.

[0075] On one hand, in step 280, instead of providing air, a pump can be used to pull or suction the remaining fluid in the distribution pipe and the second faucet hose. The purpose of step 270 is to provide pressure to remove the remaining fluid in the pipe. Therefore, this purpose can be achieved using any other means of providing pressure to remove the selected fluid.

[0076] According to various aspects of the invention, dispensing different types of fluid in step 240 can be achieved Figures 3A to 3C Displayed in China. Specifically, Figure 3A This involves dispensing a first type of fluid, or a first fluid, which may be tap water. When dispensing the first fluid, pressure is required to push the first fluid from a first container into a first faucet hose in the faucet.

[0077] Then, in step 305, it is determined which distribution switch is on. If the second distribution switch is on, method 200 is directed to terminal A, which... Figure 3B and Figure 3C As described in the text. When it is determined in step 305 that the first distribution switch is turned on, when the user presses the first distribution switch installed in the faucet, an electrical signal can be sent to the first valve of the first container to open the first container.

[0078] In step 310, air is supplied to the first container. Air can be supplied until the pressure inside the first container reaches a predetermined pressure sufficient to force the first fluid through the first faucet hose in the faucet.

[0079] When the pressure reaches the predetermined pressure, an electrical signal is provided to the first valve of the first container in step 315. Upon receiving the electrical signal, the first valve is opened in step 320. In step 325, due to the pressure in the first container, the first fluid is distributed to the faucet through the first faucet hose.

[0080] In step 330, it is further determined whether the second distribution switch is on while the first distribution switch remains on. In other words, step 330 determines whether both distribution switches are on. When it is determined that the second distribution switch is not on, the first fluid continues to be distributed until completion.

[0081] When it is determined in step 330 that the second dispensing switch is turned on, method 200 stops dispensing the first fluid to the first faucet hose in step 335 and redirects the first fluid to the second faucet hose in step 340. A filter for filtering the first fluid may be included along the second faucet hose. In one aspect, the first fluid is tap water, and the filter is a water filter.

[0082] The first fluid is then filtered through a filter and then distributed in step 345 through a second faucet hose in the faucet. In this way, when the user wants filtered water, the user can switch from unfiltered water to filtered water by turning on the second switch while the first switch is turned on.

[0083] In step 350, it is determined whether the dispensing of the filtered fluid is complete. If not, the filtered fluid is continuously dispensed in steps 345 and 350 until completion. When the dispensing of the filtered fluid is complete, method 200 returns to step 250. By using two different faucet hoses for the unfiltered and filtered fluids, cross-contamination can be significantly reduced.

[0084] Figure 3B and Figure 3C The invention relates to the distribution of a second type of fluid or second fluid comprising a gas dissolved therein. The gas can be released from the second fluid in a second container, and the released gas can increase the pressure in the second container. Therefore, it is not necessary to supply air to the second container to increase the pressure for distributing the second fluid.

[0085] In particular, Figure 3B This involves a second container, including an electric valve. When in Figure 3A When the second distribution switch is turned on in step 305, an electrical signal is transmitted to the second valve of the second container in step 355. In step 360, the second valve can be electrically turned on. In step 365, the second fluid is distributed to the second faucet hose in the faucet via the second valve.

[0086] If it is determined in step 370 that the allocation is not complete, the second fluid is allocated in step 365, and if it is determined in step 370 that the allocation is complete, the method returns to step 250.

[0087] Figure 3C The system involves a second container including a mechanical valve. In step 375, when the user wants to dispense the second fluid, the user manually activates the mechanical valve. Then, in step 380, the second fluid is dispensed into the second faucet hose of the faucet due to the increased pressure from the gas released from the second fluid.

[0088] If it is determined in step 385 that the allocation is not complete, the second fluid is allocated in step 380, and if it is determined in step 385 that the allocation of the second fluid is complete, the method returns to step 250.

[0089] On the one hand, when the gas is not dissolved in the second fluid, Figure 3B and Figure 3C This may further include supplying air to the second container before opening the second valve in either step 360 or step 375. In this case, the fluid is a third fluid. By supplying air, the internal pressure in the second container increases, allowing the third fluid to be dispensed into the second faucet hose in the faucet.

[0090] In short, Figures 2 to 3C It demonstrates how fluid can be dispensed mechanically or electrically, and how to squeeze out any remaining fluid from the tube and perform self-cleaning in the tube, regardless of whether the gas is dissolved in the fluid.

[0091] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of a computing device 400 according to various aspects of the present invention, which is used as a computing device... Figure 1 The controller 130 dispenses fluid and squeezes out any remaining fluid in the tube after complete dispensing. As a non-limiting example, computing device 400 may include server computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, notebook computers, sub-notebook computers, netbook computers, network board computers, set-top box computers, handheld computers, internet devices, mobile smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants, video game consoles, embedded computers, and autonomous vehicles. Those skilled in the art will recognize that many smartphones are suitable for use in the systems described herein. Suitable tablet computers include those known to those skilled in the art that have booklet configurations, board configurations, and convertible configurations.

[0092] In various aspects, computing device 400 includes an operating system configured to execute executable instructions. The operating system is, for example, software that includes programs and data, manages the device's hardware, and provides services for the execution of applications. Those skilled in the art will recognize that, as a non-limiting example, suitable server operating systems include Linux, Mac OSX Windows and Those skilled in the art will recognize that, by way of non-limiting example, suitable personal computer operating systems include And similar operating systems to UNIX, such as In all respects, the operating system is provided by cloud computing. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that, by way of non-limiting example, suitable mobile smartphone operating systems include... OS Research In BlackBerry and

[0093] In various aspects, computing device 400 may include storage 410. Storage 410 is one or more physical devices for temporarily or permanently storing data (e.g., dilution ratio) or programs for dispensing fluid and extruding excess fluid. In various aspects, storage 410 may be volatile memory and requires power to retain the stored information. In various aspects, storage 410 may be non-volatile memory and retains the stored information when computing device 400 is not powered. In various aspects, non-volatile memory includes flash memory. In various aspects, non-volatile memory includes dynamic random access memory (DRAM). In various aspects, non-volatile memory includes ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM). In various aspects, non-volatile memory includes phase-change random access memory (PRAM). In various aspects, as non-limiting examples, storage 410 includes CD-ROM, DVD, flash memory devices, disk drives, tape drives, optical disc drives, and cloud-based storage. In various aspects, storage 410 may be a combination of devices such as those disclosed herein.

[0094] The computing device 400 further includes a processor 430, an expander 440, a display 450, an input device 460, and a network interface card 470. The processor 430 is the brain of the computing device 400. The processor 430 executes instructions that implement the tasks or functions of a program. When a user executes a program, the processor 430 reads the program stored in the memory 410, loads the program into RAM, and executes the instructions specified by the program.

[0095] Processor 430 may include a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an algorithm coprocessor, a graphics processor, or a graphics processing unit, each of which is an electronic circuit system within a computer that executes computer programs by carrying out instructions that specify basic algorithms, logic, control, and input / output (I / O) operations.

[0096] In various respects, expander 440 may include several ports (such as one or more Universal Serial Bus (USB), IEEE 1394 ports, parallel ports) and / or expansion slots (such as Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) and PCI Express (PCIe)). Expander 440 is not limited to this list and may include other slots or ports that can be used for appropriate purposes. Expander 440 can be used to install hardware or add additional functionality to a computer. For example, a USB port can be used to add additional storage to a computer.

[0097] In various aspects, the display 450 can be a cathode ray tube (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a light-emitting diode (LED). In various aspects, the display 450 can be a thin-film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). In various aspects, the display 450 can be an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. In various aspects, the OLED display is a passive-matrix OLED (PMOLED) display or an active-matrix OLED (AMOLED) display. In various aspects, the display 450 can be a plasma display. In various aspects, the display can be an interactive device capable of detecting user interactions / gestures / responses, etc. (e.g., having a touchscreen).

[0098] Users can input and / or modify data via input device 460, which may include a keyboard, mouse, or any other device that users can use to input data. Display 450 displays the data on its screen. Display 450 may be a touchscreen, allowing it to be used as an input device.

[0099] The network interface card 470 is used to communicate wirelessly or via a wired connection with other computing devices. Through the network interface card 470, the computing device 400 can receive data from the management server, modify data, and / or update data to the management server.

[0100] The aspects disclosed herein are examples of the invention and may be implemented in various forms. For example, although some aspects are described herein as separate aspects, each aspect may be combined with one or more other aspects herein. The specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but rather serve as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to apply the invention differently from virtually any suitable detailed structure.

[0101] It should be understood that the various aspects disclosed herein can be combined in combinations different from those specifically presented in the specification and drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the example, certain actions or events of any process or method described herein may be performed in a different order, and may be added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., all described actions or events may not be essential for performing the technique). Furthermore, although some aspects of the invention are described as being performed by a single module for clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of the invention can be performed by a combination of units or modules associated with, for example, a fluid distribution system.

Claims

1. A distributor system, comprising: A first container, configured to contain a first fluid; A second container, configured to contain a second fluid; A faucet, wherein the faucet is connected to the first container and the second container via a first hose and a second hose respectively, and the faucet includes a first switch and a second switch mounted on the faucet; as well as A controller configured to control the distribution of the first fluid and the second fluid through the faucet; as well as A pump configured to supply air to the second hose when the second switch is off. Specifically, when the first switch is turned on and the second switch is turned off, the controller distributes the first fluid to the faucet through the first hose. Specifically, when the first switch is open and the second switch is closed, the controller distributes the second fluid to the faucet through the second hose. Specifically, the dispenser system is configured and its dimensions are set to prevent cross-contamination between the first hose and the second hose. Wherein, the first fluid is tap water, and In this process, gas is released from the second fluid in the second container.

2. The distributor system according to claim 1, further comprising: A filter, configured to filter the first fluid, When the second switch is turned on at the same time as the first switch is turned on, the controller stops distributing the first fluid to the first hose and begins distributing the filtered first fluid to the faucet through the second hose.

3. The distributor system according to claim 2, wherein, When the second switch is turned off, the filtered first fluid remaining in the second hose is discharged based on the supplied air.

4. The distributor system according to claim 1, wherein, The second container includes a second valve configured to open the second container.

5. The distributor system according to claim 4, wherein, The second container includes a second pump configured to supply air to the second container.

6. The distributor system according to claim 5, wherein, When the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second pump supplies air to the second container to supply the second fluid to the second hose.

7. The distributor system according to claim 4, wherein, The second valve is mechanically opened or closed.

8. The distributor system according to claim 4, wherein, The second switch sends an electrical signal to the second valve, causing the second valve to be opened or closed electrically.

9. The distributor system according to claim 8, wherein, When the second switch is turned off, the second valve is closed.

10. The distributor system according to claim 8, wherein, When the second switch is turned off, the second fluid remaining in the second hose is discharged based on the supplied air.

11. The distributor system according to claim 1, wherein, The gas is carbon dioxide.

12. The distributor system according to claim 1, wherein, When the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second container supplies the second fluid to the second hose based on the pressure caused by the gas released from the second fluid.

13. A dispensing method for dispensing a first fluid contained in a first container or a second fluid contained in a second container via a tap, the tap being connected to the first container and the second container respectively via a first hose and a second hose, and the tap including a first switch and a second switch mounted on the tap, the method comprising: Receive a signal from the first switch indicating whether the first switch is turned on or off; Receive a signal from the second switch indicating whether the second switch is on or off; When the first switch is turned on and the second switch is turned off, the first fluid is distributed to the faucet through the first hose; When the first switch is off and the second switch is on, the second fluid is distributed to the faucet through the second hose; as well as When the second switch is open, air is supplied to the second hose. Contamination between the first hose and the second hose is prevented. Wherein, the first fluid is tap water, and In this process, gas is released from the second fluid in the second container.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Filter the first fluid; When the second switch is turned on at the same time as the first switch is turned on, the dispensing of the first fluid to the first hose stops, and the dispensing of the filtered first fluid to the faucet begins through the second hose.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising: When the second switch is turned off, the remaining filtered first fluid in the second hose is discharged based on the supplied air.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising: Air is supplied to the second container.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: When the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second fluid is supplied to the second hose based on the air supplied to the second container.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: When the second switch is turned off, the remaining second fluid in the second hose is discharged based on the air supplied to the second hose.

19. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The gas is carbon dioxide.

20. The method of claim 13, further comprising: When the second switch is turned on and the first switch is turned off, the second fluid is supplied to the second hose based on the pressure caused by the gas released from the second fluid.

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