Portable water dispenser

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a portable water dispenser. The present disclosure provides a water dispenser that is small in size and relatively light in weight. The dispenser is capable of treating source water to obtain drinking quality water and includes a cooling system to cool the treated water to a desired drinking temperature. The dispenser also includes a user-accessible cooling storage chamber enabling storage of various products that need to be maintained under cooling conditions in the cooling storage chamber. To this end, the cooling system is configured to selectively cool the cooling process water tank and the cooling storage chamber according to a desired cooling profile or sequence.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a portable water dispenser, which is generally used to provide treated cooled drinking water. BACKGROUND ART

[0002] The following references are considered to be relevant to the background of the subject matter of the present disclosure:

[0003] - U.S. Patent Publication No. 6182453;

[0004] - Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 201438930;

[0005] - Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 217209946;

[0006] - Korean Patent Application Publication No. 100406033.

[0007] The acknowledgement of the above references herein should not be construed as meaning that these references are in any way relevant to the patentability of the subject matter of the present disclosure.

[0008] BACKGROUND

[0009] Portable cooling water dispensers are known. Such portable dispensers generally include a water reservoir and a cooling facility for cooling the water in the reservoir before dispensing. OVERALL DESCRIPTION

[0011] The present disclosure provides a portable cooling water dispenser with additional advantageous functions. The present disclosure provides a water dispenser that is small in size and relatively light in weight. The dispenser of the present disclosure is capable of treating source water to obtain potable-quality water and includes a cooling system to cool the treated water to a desired drinking temperature. The dispenser also includes a user-accessible cooling storage chamber, enabling the storage of various products that need to be kept under cooling conditions, such as food, medicine, etc. To this end, the cooling system is configured to selectively cool the cooled treatment water tank and the cooling storage chamber according to a desired cooling curve or sequence.

[0012] Although the dispenser of the present disclosure can be operated by connecting to a grid power supply, the dispenser is preferably operated by one or more batteries or battery packs, making it very suitable for use in scenarios where no grid is available (such as field conditions, emergencies, power shortages, etc.).

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a portable water dispenser having a housing and a lid, and comprising within the housing: a water treatment module including a user-accessible water supply reservoir and one or more water treatment units in fluid communication with the water supply reservoir, the one or more water treatment units configured to treat source water to obtain treated water; a cooling treatment water tank in fluid communication with the water treatment module and configured to cool the treated water in the cooling treatment water tank to a drinking temperature; a dispensing nozzle unit in fluid communication with the cooling treatment water tank; a user-accessible cooling storage chamber; and a cooling system configured to selectively cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber.

[0014] In other words, the cooling system of the dispenser is configured to selectively cool the water tank of the treated water and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber in a selective manner according to a desired cooling curve, e.g., depending on the desired drinking temperature of the treated water and / or the desired storage temperature of the items in the cooling storage chamber.

[0015] The term water treatment unit refers to a unit configured to allow source water to flow therethrough and remove one or more contaminants from the source water and / or add one or more beneficial components to the source water as it flows through the unit. For example, the water treatment unit can be configured to remove particulate matter, microorganisms, heavy metals, and other contaminants, and / or add flavorings, vitamins, minerals, and other desired beneficial components to the water.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the one or more water treatment units are selected from water filtration units and reverse osmosis (RO) units. In some embodiments, the water treatment unit is a water treatment cartridge of the type described in patent publications WO2008 / 026208, WO2008 / 044230, WO2011 / 030340, WO2016 / 151568, WO2018 / 193455, WO2021 / 019541, the relevant content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] The water treatment unit can be a gravity unit, i.e., water passes through due to gravity.

[0018] Alternatively, the water treatment unit can be a pressurized unit adapted to draw in pressurized water supply. In such a configuration, the water supply reservoir can include a pump or be associated with a pump configured to supply the source water to the water treatment unit under pressure.

[0019] Preferably, the water treatment unit is user replaceable such that once depleted, clogged, or after treating a predetermined volume of source water, the water treatment unit can be replaced. By some embodiments, the water treatment unit can include an indicator that provides an indication to the user for replacing the water treatment unit. Such indication can be, for example, a visual signal, an audible signal, an electronic signal, etc. By some embodiments, the water treatment unit can include a shut-off mechanism configured to prevent source water from passing through the water treatment unit once replacement of the unit is needed.

[0020] The water supply reservoir is user accessible, i.e., the water supply reservoir is user accessible for refilling with source water. According to some embodiments, the user accessible water supply reservoir has a volume ranging from about 0.5 liters to about 20 liters.

[0021] By some embodiments, the water treatment module further includes a reservoir for treated water that is in fluid communication with one or more water treatment units and is disposed upstream of the cooling treatment water tank. The reservoir for treated water is configured to receive treated water and, when needed, typically when the water level in the cooling treatment water tank drops below a defined water level threshold, transfer the treated water to the cooling treatment water tank.

[0022] By some embodiments, the volume of the reservoir for treated water ranges from about 0.5 liters to about 25 liters.

[0023] By some embodiments, the reservoir for treated water can include or be associated with a reservoir pump configured to transfer treated water from the reservoir for treated water to the cooling treatment water tank.

[0024] By some embodiments, the water treatment module further includes an ultraviolet disinfection unit (i.e., an ultraviolet radiation disinfection unit) configured to disinfect the source water before / during / after the source water is supplied to the water treatment unit. The ultraviolet disinfection unit can be located in the water supply reservoir, the reservoir for treated water, or in series in the water flow pipeline within the water treatment module.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the dispenser further includes an ultraviolet disinfection module disposed in the cooling treatment water tank to irradiate the cooled treated water with ultraviolet radiation.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the water treatment module can be detachably attached to the cooling treatment water tank. In such an embodiment, the water treatment module can be detached as a whole from the cooling treatment water tank such that it can be easily removed from the housing for cleaning or replacement.

[0027] According to other embodiments, the water supply reservoir is detachably attached to one or more water treatment units.

[0028] In some embodiments, the water treatment module is user replaceable; this means that the user can easily remove the water treatment module from the dispenser for replacement or maintenance without the need for special or dedicated tools. In some embodiments, the water treatment module is detachably attached to the dispenser by a quick fit attachment without the need for any tools for such separation and attachment.

[0029] In some embodiments, the water treatment module has an inlet and an outlet extending out of the housing and is configured to establish fluid communication with a source water supply line and a drain, respectively. For example, such ports can be used to dock a portable dispenser with the source water - drain system of a recreational vehicle (RV).

[0030] As described above, the dispenser includes a user - accessible cooling storage chamber, which is a chamber maintained at a desired storage temperature for the proper storage of temperature - sensitive items such as dairy products, frozen or semi - frozen products, chilled / refrigerated foods, medications, etc. In some embodiments, the user - accessible cooling storage chamber can have a volume ranging from about 0.5 liters to about 20 liters.

[0031] The user can gain access to the cooling storage chamber by opening a lid portion, which can be a hinged lid portion. According to some embodiments, a hatch is defined in the lid portion and provides access to the cooling storage chamber independent of the lid portion. In other words, a lid having dimensions generally suitable for sealing the cooling storage chamber is defined in the lid portion and can be opened and closed to selectively allow access to the cooling storage chamber without the need to open the lid portion.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the lid is a hinged lid. The hinged lid portion and the hinged lid can have mutually hinged or independently hinged means.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the lid is configured to selectively associate with the lid portion, thereby allowing the lid portion and the lid to be opened and closed together.

[0034] Also as described above, the cooling system is configured to selectively cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user - accessible cooling storage chamber. In other words, the cooling system is configured to cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user - accessible cooling storage chamber according to a defined cooling curve.

[0035] According to some embodiments, the cooling system is configured to cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user - accessible cooling storage chamber simultaneously.

[0036] In other embodiments, the cooling system is configured to alternately cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user - accessible cooling storage chamber.

[0037] In some other embodiments, the cooling system is configured to alternately cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user - accessible cooling storage chamber according to a predetermined cooling sequence.

[0038] The cooling sequence and / or selective operation of the cooling system can be controlled, for example, by a control unit of the dispenser, which is configured to direct the cooling fluid to flow through the cooling system between the cooling treatment tank cooling subsystem and the cooling storage chamber cooling subsystem. For example, the cooling system can include a manifold and a plurality of valves, and the control unit is configured to operate the valves according to a predetermined sequence so as to selectively transfer the cooling fluid, for example, in a defined order, into the cooling treatment tank cooling subsystem and the cooling storage chamber cooling subsystem to maintain the desired temperature in the tank and the chamber. Alternatively or additionally, each of the cooling treatment tank and the cooling storage chamber includes a temperature sensor in communication with the control unit, and whenever the temperature in the tank and / or the chamber rises above a defined threshold temperature, the temperature sensor transfers the cooling fluid to the tank and / or the chamber.

[0039] According to some embodiments, the cooling system is configured to maintain the treated water in the cooling treatment tank at a drinking temperature, typically in the range of about 2°C to about 25°C.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the volume of the cooling treatment tank is between about 0.5 liters and about 20 liters, preferably between about 1 liter and 10 liters.

[0041] According to some embodiments, the cooling system is configured to cool and maintain the user-accessible cooling storage chamber at a temperature range between about -20°C and about 25°C.

[0042] The cooled treated water is dispensed from the cooling treatment tank through a dispensing nozzle unit in fluid communication with the tank. The dispensing nozzle unit includes a dispensing nozzle.

[0043] According to some embodiments, the dispensing nozzle unit can be switched between a dispensing position and a retracted position. In the dispensing position, the dispensing nozzle extends substantially perpendicular to the wall portion of the housing. In the retracted position, the dispensing nozzle is folded onto the wall portion. In other words, when not in use, the dispensing nozzle unit can be folded to the retracted position, for example, flush with the side wall of the housing (or embedded within the side wall, i.e., defined within a cavity in the side wall), thereby preventing possible mechanical damage to the dispensing nozzle during movement, transportation, or storage of the portable dispenser.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the dispensing nozzle unit is detachably attached to the housing, thereby allowing the dispensing nozzle unit to be temporarily removed, for example, for cleaning. For example, the dispensing nozzle unit can be detachably attached to the housing by a snap device.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the dispensing nozzle unit is biased to a dispensing position by a biasing device and held in a retracted position against this biasing by a stop device. In such an embodiment, the dispenser may include a user-operated nozzle deployment mechanism (e.g., a button), the nozzle deployment mechanism being configured to release the dispensing nozzle unit from the stop device to allow the dispensing nozzle unit to be biased and displaced to the dispensing position.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the control unit of the dispenser is configured to prevent the dispensing of water when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the retracted position (or when the dispenser nozzle is not in its dispensing position).

[0047] In some embodiments, the wall portion houses an ultraviolet disinfection lamp configured to irradiate the dispensing nozzle with ultraviolet radiation when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the retracted position. In other words, when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the retracted position, the ultraviolet disinfection lamp can be operated to irradiate the dispensing nozzle with radiation of an ultraviolet wavelength to allow disinfection of the dispensing nozzle, thereby preventing the proliferation of undesirable microorganisms.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the dispenser includes a drip tray. The drip tray is generally vertically located below the dispensing nozzle and is substantially aligned with the dispensing nozzle such that water droplets, dispensed water residues, or inadvertently spilled water can be collected in the drip tray. The drip tray can also be used as a glass or cup holder, and a glass or cup can be placed on the drip tray to position the glass or cup below the dispensing nozzle.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the drip tray is detachably attached to the housing, thereby allowing it to be temporarily removed for draining or cleaning. For example, the drip tray can be detachably attached to the housing by snap means.

[0050] In some embodiments, the drip tray is foldable between a folded position and a deployed position. In the folded position, the drip tray is substantially flush with the side wall of the housing. In the deployed position, when the dispensing nozzle is in the dispensing position, the drip tray extends substantially perpendicular to the side wall of the housing and substantially parallel to the dispensing nozzle. Thus, when in the folded position, the drip tray is substantially flush with the side wall of the housing (or embedded within the side wall, i.e., in a cavity defined in the side wall of the housing), thereby minimizing or preventing possible mechanical damage to the drip tray when the portable dispenser is moved, transported, or stored.

[0051] In some embodiments, the dispensing nozzle unit and the drip tray can be operated independently, i.e., the switching of the drip tray between the folded position and the deployed position can be independent of the switching of the dispensing nozzle unit between the retracted position and the dispensing position.

[0052] In other embodiments, the displacement between the drip tray and the dispensing nozzle unit can be mechanically linked. By such an embodiment, the dispenser can include a linkage device, linked between the dispensing nozzle unit and the drip tray, and configured to switch the dispensing nozzle unit and the drip tray to their respective dispensing position and deployment position substantially simultaneously.

[0053] According to some embodiments, at least the cooling system of the dispenser is battery-powered. By being battery-powered, the user can use the dispenser in various situations where there is no power grid available, that is, to provide cooled treated water and allow various items within the dispenser to be maintained at a cooled storage temperature.

[0054] According to some embodiments, the housing includes a battery pack compartment configured to receive one or more batteries for powering at least the cooling system. According to some embodiments, the battery pack compartment is configured to be replaceable; that is, by replacing the battery pack compartment according to the type of battery used, different types of batteries can be used.

[0055] Since the dispenser is designed to be portable, the dispenser of the present disclosure is designed to have a weight suitable for being comfortably lifted and carried by the user. According to some embodiments, the total weight (excluding water) of the portable dispenser does not exceed about 50 kg, typically does not exceed 40 kg, or even is less than 25 kg.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the dispenser further includes at least one drinking glass cooling module defined in the housing, the at least one drinking glass cooling module being configured to cool at least one drinking glass (or bottle) removably received in the at least one drinking glass cooling module. The drinking glass cooling module is typically cooled by the cooling system.

[0057] The drinking glass cooling module typically has a cavity suitable for removably receiving a drinking glass or bottle (e.g., having a volume between 200 mL and 1000 mL), and the drinking glass cooling module cools the glass or bottle in the cavity. The drinking glass cooling module can be configured to maintain the glass or bottle (and its contents) at a desired drinking temperature for the user.

[0058] By some embodiments, the drinking glass cooling module includes an ultraviolet radiation unit for disinfecting the drinking glass (or bottle) and its contents when the drinking glass (or bottle) is received within the drinking glass cooling module. As understood, such disinfection can be used for glasses or bottles made of ultraviolet radiation-transmissive materials or glasses or bottles having at least a portion made of ultraviolet radiation-transmissive materials.

[0059] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes at least one accessory storage compartment defined within the housing for storing various accessories (e.g., cups, tools, charging cables, etc.). The at least one accessory storage compartment can be cooled by a cooling system, for example, to allow it to function as a decoy box.

[0060] In some embodiments, the dispenser further includes at least one electronic device charging means, such as a USB port (USB-A, USB-B, USB micro-B, USB-C, etc.), a walkie-talkie charging dock, or a wireless charging surface, for charging various electronic devices (such as cellular phones, walkie-talkies, laptop computers, tablet devices, portable radios, etc.).

[0061] In some embodiments, the portable water dispenser further includes a water carbonation module configured to receive cooled treated water and carbonate the water therein to a desired degree of carbonation. In such an embodiment, the water carbonation module further includes a replaceable canister receiving bay configured to removably receive one or more canisters of compressed carbon dioxide (CO2). A suitable water carbonation module can be, for example, the carbonation module described in WO2014 / 041539, WO2015 / 118523, or WO2018 / 069913, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the housing is configured to be detachably attached to various surfaces or utility modules. In one example, the housing is configured to be detachably attached to a mounting platform or a truck bed. In another example, the housing is configured to be detachably attached to a toolbox or a stack of toolboxes. In yet another example, the housing is configured to be detachably attached to a trolley or an L-shaped trolley. To this end, according to some embodiments, the housing may include a hinge device configured to hinge the housing to the surface or utility module. Such a hinge device may further include one or more locking latches configured to lock the housing to the surface or utility module once hinged thereto.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the portable water dispenser includes a movement device. The movement device can be switched between a retracted position in which the moving device is stowed within a movement device space defined within the housing and an extended position in which the movement device protrudes outside the housing. In some embodiments, the movement device is detachably attached to the housing.

[0064] In some embodiments, the portable water dispenser has one or more carrying handles.

[0065] According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides a portable water distribution system configured to be removably received within a housing. The distribution system includes: a water treatment module including a user-accessible water supply reservoir and one or more water treatment units in fluid communication with the water supply reservoir, the one or more water treatment units configured to treat source water to obtain treated water; a chilled treatment water tank in fluid communication with the water treatment module and configured to chill the treated water in the chilled treatment water tank to a drinking temperature; a dispensing nozzle unit in fluid communication with the chilled treatment water tank; a user-accessible chilled storage chamber; and a cooling system configured to selectively cool the chilled treatment water tank and the user-accessible chilled storage chamber.

[0066] In other words, in this aspect, the portable water distribution system can be configured to be received within and removably received within different housings such that the housing can be switched by the user according to the desired use and the desired housing configuration suitable for that particular use. For example, the dispenser can be received within one type of housing configured to be hinged to a truck bed, and then the user can remove the dispenser from the housing and place it into another different housing suitable for being hinged to a toolbox stack.

[0067] Such a feature provides for the accommodation of the water within different housings, for example, for various outdoor uses or on-site deployments without modifying the dispenser itself.

[0068] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents.

[0069] As used herein, the term "about" is intended to cover a deviation of ±10% from the value of a specifically recited parameter (e.g., temperature, pressure, volume, etc.).

[0070] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any recited numerical value (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases "ranging between / within" the first recited number and the second recited number and "ranging from" the first recited number "to" the second recited number are used interchangeably herein and are meant to include the first and second recited numbers and all fractional and integral numerical values therebetween.

[0071] Throughout this specification and the following claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising" shall be understood to imply the inclusion of the stated integer or step, or group of integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0072] It should generally be noted that the term "at least one of..." when applied to any component of the disclosed dispenser shall be understood to cover one, two, three, four, five or even more different instances of the stated component in the disclosed dispenser.

[0073] It should be understood that, for clarity, certain features of the present disclosure described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, for brevity, the various features of the present disclosure described in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination, or considered suitable for any other described embodiment of the present disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not considered essential features of those embodiments unless the embodiment does not function without those elements. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0075] To better understand the subject matter disclosed herein and to illustrate how it may be implemented in practice, embodiments will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0076] Figures 1A to 1D A portable water dispenser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, Figure 1A as a perspective front view with the nozzle in the retracted position, Figure 1B is Figure 1A a view of the nozzle in the dispensing position in Figure 1C where the top cover is removed, and Figure 1D is a perspective rear view.

[0077] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1A the dispenser with the housing removed.

[0078] Figures 3A to 3B A perspective view of the water treatment module is shown, with the corresponding housing of the water treatment module made transparent to show the internal components of the water treatment module: the filtration module ( Figure 3A ) and the reverse osmosis module ( Figure 3B ).

[0079] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a cooling system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Figures 5A to 5C is a perspective view of a portable water dispenser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the portable water dispenser being housed in an exemplary toolbox-shaped housing, the cover having a storage access hinged lid, Figure 5A in which the storage access hinged lid is in the closed position, Figure 5B the storage access hinged lid is in the open position, and Figure 5C the cover and the lid are in the combined open position.

[0081] Figures 6A to 6B is a perspective view of a portable water dispenser according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the portable water dispenser including a drip tray, Figure 6A in which the drip tray is in the folded position, Figure 6B the drip tray is in the deployed position.

[0082] Figure 6C is a cross-sectional view along line VI-VI in Figure 6A .

[0083] Figures 7A to 7B is a perspective view of a portable water dispenser according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the portable water dispenser having a movement device: Figure 7A in which the movement device is in the retracted position, Figure 7B the movement device is in the extended position.

[0084] Figure 8 is a side elevational view of a portable water dispenser according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the portable water dispenser having a water inlet port and an outlet port for docking with a flowing water source and a drainage system.

[0085] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view along line IX-IX in Figure 5A .

[0086] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a portable water dispenser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the portable water dispenser having an ice storage compartment and an accessory storage compartment.

[0087] Figure 11A is a perspective view of a portable water dispenser having a glass cooling and / or glass disinfection compartment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Figure 11B is a cross-sectional view along line XI-XI in Figure 11A .

[0089] Figure 11C is shown separately a disposable glass suitable for use with Figure 11A the glass cooling and / or glass disinfection compartment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0090] Go to Figures 1A to 1D , which shows an exemplary portable water dispenser according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The dispenser 100 has a housing 102 with a detachable or openable lid portion 104 and a dispensing nozzle unit 106 having a dispensing nozzle 108 through which, as described below, cooled treated water is dispensed according to the user's needs. The lid portion 104 is a hinged lid portion in this example, and the lid portion 104 can be opened and closed about a hinge 105. The lid portion is held in its closed position by one or more latches 107. While in the exemplary embodiment herein the lid portion 104 is a hinged lid, it is also contemplated that the lid portion 104 can be non-hinged and can be completely removed from the housing for opening.

[0091] For ease of transportation, the housing may include one or more handles 109, one of the one or more handles 109 as Figures 1A to 1C shown.

[0092] The dispensing nozzle unit 106 is collapsible, i.e., it can be switched between a stowed position as shown in Figure 1A and Figure 1C and a dispensing position as shown in Figure 1B . In the stowed position, the dispensing nozzle is folded into a recess 110 defined in the sidewall of the housing 102, and in the dispensing position, the nozzle unit 106 extends out of the recess 110 and is substantially perpendicular to the sidewall of the housing. Thus, when not in use, the dispensing nozzle unit can be folded into the stowed position, e.g., flush with the sidewall of the housing (or recessed within the recess 110), thereby preventing possible mechanical damage to the dispensing nozzle during movement, transportation, or storage of the portable dispenser.

[0093] As Figure 1B shown, the recess 110 houses an ultraviolet disinfection lamp 111 which is configured to irradiate the dispensing nozzle 108 with ultraviolet radiation when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the stowed position. In other words, when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the stowed position, the ultraviolet disinfection lamp 111 can be operated (e.g., by a control unit 160) to irradiate the dispensing nozzle with radiation of an ultraviolet wavelength to allow disinfection of the dispensing nozzle, thereby preventing the proliferation of unwanted microorganisms. The ultraviolet disinfection lamp can be, for example, an ultraviolet LED lamp.

[0094] The dispensing nozzle unit 106 can be detachably attached to the housing 102, thereby allowing the dispensing nozzle unit 106 to be temporarily removed (e.g., for cleaning). For example, the dispensing nozzle unit can be detachably attached to the housing by a snap device.

[0095] The dispensing nozzle unit 106 can be biased to a dispensing position by a biasing device (not shown) and held in a retracted position against this biasing by a stop device. The dispenser can include a user-operated nozzle deployment mechanism (e.g., a button (not shown)) configured to release the dispensing nozzle unit from the stop device to allow the dispensing nozzle unit to be biased and displaced to the dispensing position.

[0096] The control unit 160 of the dispenser can be configured to prevent water dispensing when the dispensing nozzle unit 106 is in the retracted position (or when the dispensing nozzle is not in its dispensing position).

[0097] Vent holes 112 and 114 are also defined in the housing. As will be described, the function of vent holes 112 and 114 is to allow ambient air to enter the dispenser to cool the electronic system of the electrical components operating the dispenser. As shown in Figure 1D As best seen in, a battery pack receiving compartment 116 is defined in the housing 102 for removably receiving one or more batteries 118 (in this example, two such batteries are shown). Powered by the battery, the user can use the dispenser in various situations where there is no power grid available, i.e., to provide cooled treated water and allow various items within the dispenser to be maintained at a cooled storage temperature. Although a battery-powered dispenser is shown in this example, it is also contemplated that the dispenser can be configured to alternatively or additionally receive power from the power grid.

[0098] In Figures 1C to 1D the top cover 104 of the dispenser 100 shown is removed to facilitate viewing of some of the internal components of the dispenser. As better seen in Figure 2 the dispenser 100 includes a water treatment module, generally labeled 120, for treating a water source into treated water of potable quality. The water treatment module is in fluid communication with a cooled treatment water tank 124, which is cooled by a cooling system generally labeled 126. The cooled treated water can be dispensed from the tank 124 for consumption according to user needs. The user-accessible cooled storage chamber 122 is also cooled by the cooling system 126 for storing one or more items that need to be stored at a low temperature, such as food, medicine, etc.

[0099] An additional function module 123, as shown in Figure 1C is an electronic device charging device, which is a wireless charging surface in this example, for charging various electronic devices (such as cellular phones, walkie-talkies, laptop computers, tablet devices, portable radios, etc.).

[0100] In Figures 3A to 3B two exemplary water treatment modules that can be used in the dispenser of the present disclosure are shown in more detail. As shown inFigure 3A As shown, the water treatment module 120 includes a user-accessible water supply reservoir 128 into which source water or water to be treated can be injected by opening or removing the reservoir cover portion 130. The volume of the reservoir is typically between about 0.5 liters and about 20 liters. Then, the source water is treated by a water treatment cartridge 132 which is in fluid communication with the reservoir 128, and the treated water is temporarily stored in a reservoir 134 for the treated water. The reservoir 134 for the treated water thus serves as a temporary reservoir, and when needed (usually when the water level in the cooling treatment water tank drops below a defined water level threshold), the treated water is transferred from this temporary reservoir to the water tank 124. Thus, generally, the volume of the reservoir 128 is larger than that of the water tank 124, thereby allowing the treatment of the source water independently of the cooling of the source water.

[0101] The water from the reservoir 134 for the treated water is fed into the cooling treatment water tank 124 through the reservoir outlet 136 either by gravity or preferably by using a reservoir pump located at the bottom portion of the reservoir 134 for the treated water.

[0102] Figure 3B An alternative water treatment module is shown. The water treatment module 120' includes a user-accessible water supply reservoir 128' into which source water or water to be treated can be supplied by opening or removing the reservoir cover portion 130'. Whenever the water level in the water tank 124 for replenishing or supplementing the cooling water needs to be refilled, the source water in the reservoir 128' is fed through the outlets 135, 137 under the pressure formed by the pump 138' into the reverse osmosis device 132'. The pump 138' is also used to pressurize and convey the treated water from the reverse osmosis unit 132' through the outlet 136' into the water tank 124 for the cooling water. Thus, in this configuration, the water treatment module does not include a reservoir for the treated water, and the source water is treated in the reverse osmosis unit according to the demand for the treated water.

[0103] Preferably, the water treatment module (120, 120') is detachably attached to the cooling treatment water tank 124. In other words, the water treatment module is designed to be removable from the hose as a whole for cleaning or replacement. Preferably, the water treatment module is detachably attached to the dispenser by a quick-fit attachment without the need for any tools for such detachment and attachment. For example, the removal of the module from the housing can be facilitated by a user-accessible handle 125 (or 125'). After removal, the modules 120 and 120' can also be used as independent modules for water disinfection.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, the water supply reservoir 128 (or 128') is removable.

[0105] Typically, the water treatment units (132, 132') are user-replaceable such that they can be replaced once depleted, clogged, or after treating a predetermined volume of source water. The water treatment unit may include an indicator that provides an indication to the user for replacing the water treatment unit (not shown). Such indication can be, for example, a visual signal, an audible signal, an electronic signal, etc. The water treatment unit may alternatively or additionally include a shut-off mechanism (not shown) configured to prevent source water from passing through the water treatment unit once replacement of the unit is required.

[0106] As described above, the dispenser includes a user-accessible cooling storage chamber 122, which is a chamber maintained at a desired storage temperature for the proper storage of temperature-sensitive items such as dairy products, frozen or semi-frozen products, chilled / refrigerated foods, medications, etc. The user-accessible cooling storage chamber typically has a volume of from about 0.5 liters to about 20 liters.

[0107] The cooling system 126 is designed to selectively cool the water tank of the treated water and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber according to a desired cooling curve (e.g., depending on the desired drinking temperature of the treated water and / or the desired storage temperature of the items in the cooling storage chamber). An example of such a cooling system is shown in Figure 4 shown below.

[0108] The cooling system 126 includes a condenser unit 140 and a compressor 142. Through the operation of the tank valve 144 and the chamber valve 146, the cooled cooling fluid is selectively supplied from the condenser 140 to the cooling coil 148 (of the water tank 124) or the cooling channel 150 (of the chamber 122). In other words, the tank valve 144 and the cooling coil 148 define a tank cooling subsystem, while the chamber valve 146 and the cooling channel 150 define a chamber cooling subsystem. By selectively operating the valves 144 and 146, the appropriate temperature in the water tank 124 of the cooled water and the appropriate temperature in the cooling storage chamber 122 are maintained. The cooling fluid is then collected and fed into the compressor 142 to complete the cooling cycle of the cooling system.

[0109] The valves 144 and 146 can be operated simultaneously, i.e., delivering the cooling fluid to both the water tank 124 and the chamber 122. However, preferably, the cooling system is configured to alternately cool the cooled water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber, i.e., alternately cool the cooled water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber according to a predetermined cooling sequence. This allows for energy-efficient operation of the cooling system while maintaining the appropriate temperature in the tank and the chamber.

[0110] The cooling sequence and / or selective operation of valves 144 and 146 can be controlled by a control unit 160, such as a dispenser, configured to alternately direct cooling fluid through the water tank cooling subsystem and the chamber cooling subsystem. Alternatively or additionally, each of the cooling treatment water tank and the cooling storage chamber includes a temperature sensor (not shown) in communication with the control unit 160. Whenever the temperature in the water tank and / or the chamber rises above a defined threshold temperature, the control unit 160 directs the cooling fluid to the water tank cooling subsystem and / or the chamber cooling subsystem.

[0111] Generally, the cooling system 126 is configured to maintain the treated water in the cooling treatment water tank 124 (typically at a drinking temperature of about 2°C to about 25°C), and to maintain the user-accessible cooling storage within a temperature range of about -20°C to about 25°C.

[0112] Since the dispenser is designed to be portable, the dispenser of the present disclosure is designed to have a weight suitable for comfortable lifting and carrying by a user. Thus, the portable dispenser can have a total weight (excluding water) of no more than about 25 kg.

[0113] Since the dispenser is designed for portability and use in different on-site scenarios, the dispenser is also designed to be accommodated in housings of various configurations. For example, the housing can be configured for portability, i.e., having various external handles. Additionally, the housing can be configured to be detachably attached to various surfaces, such as mounting platforms, truck beds, mobile work surfaces (e.g., field tables, deployable tables, camping tables, etc.) or other suitable surfaces. The housing can also be configured to be detachably attached to various utility modules, such as toolbox stacks, trolleys, L-shaped trolleys, etc.

[0114] For example, Figures 5A to 5C a dispenser according to the present disclosure is shown accommodated in a toolbox-shaped housing. It can be seen that the dispenser 200 (similar to dispenser 100, but having a different housing) is accommodated in the housing 202, which includes a pair of carrying handles 209 (only one is shown) to facilitate easy carrying of the dispenser by the user. The lid portion 204 is held in the closed position by a pair of latches 207 and can be opened to access the dispenser, e.g., to fill the water treatment module 220 with source water for treatment. An articulated lid 213 is also defined in the lid portion 204, which can also be opened independently of the lid portion 204 (as Figure 5B shown) to allow access only to the cooling storage chamber 222.

[0115] As Figure 5C shown, by associating the lid 213 with the lid portion 204, e.g., by using a latch 215, the lid 213 can be opened and closed together with the lid portion 204.

[0116] Figures 6A to 6C Another exemplary portable dispenser 300 is shown. The dispenser 300 is similar to the dispenser 200, but further includes a drip tray 352. The drip tray 352 is vertically located below the dispensing nozzle unit 306 and has a folded position ( Figure 6A ) and an unfolded position ( Figures 6B to 6C ), in the folded position, the drip tray 352 is embedded in the groove 354 and is substantially flush with the side wall of the housing (302), in the unfolded position, when the dispensing nozzle unit is in the dispensing position, the drip tray 352 extends substantially perpendicular to the side wall of the housing 302 and is substantially parallel to the dispensing nozzle unit 306.

[0117] Thus, during storage or travel, both the dispensing nozzle unit 306 and the drip tray 352 can be safely retracted into their respective grooves 310 and 354 to prevent mechanical damage.

[0118] Water droplets, dispensed water residues or accidentally spilled water can be collected in the drip tray 352. The drip tray can also be used as a glass or cup holder, and a glass or cup can be placed on the drip tray to position the glass or cup below the dispensing nozzle 308. The drip tray can be detachably attached to the housing, thereby allowing temporary removal of the drip tray for drainage or cleaning. For example, the drip tray can be detachably attached to the housing by a snap device (not shown).

[0119] The dispensing nozzle unit 306 and the drip tray 352 can be operated independently - that is, the switching of the drip tray between the folded position and the unfolded position can be independent of the switching of the dispensing nozzle unit between the retracted position and the dispensing position. Alternatively, the displacement of the drip tray 352 and the dispensing nozzle unit 306 between the functional positions can be mechanically linked, for example, by a linkage device 356 ( Figure 6C ), the linkage device 356 is connected between the dispensing nozzle unit 306 and the drip tray 352, and the linkage device is configured to switch the dispensing nozzle unit and the drip tray to the corresponding dispensing position and unfolded position substantially simultaneously.

[0120] Figures 7A to 7B Another exemplary embodiment of a portable water dispenser according to the present disclosure is shown. The dispenser 400 (which is similar to the dispensers 200 and 300) includes a motion device, generally labeled 462. The motion device 462 includes a pair of wheels 464 mounted on an axle 466. The motion device 462 can be in a retracted position ( Figure 7A ) and a protruded position ( Figure 7B) and switch between them. In the retracted position, the wheel 464 is retracted into the movement device space 468 defined in the housing 402. In the extended position, the wheel 464 rotates out of the space 468 around the shaft 466 to protrude outside the housing 402. Then, the handle 409 can be used to tilt the dispenser 400 and move the dispenser 400 using the wheel 464.

[0121] Figure 8 Another exemplary portable dispenser is shown. The dispenser 500 is similar to the dispensers 100, 200, 300, and 400, but also has a water inlet 570 and a drain outlet 572 that extend out of the housing 502. The water inlet 570 and the drain outlet 572 are configured to establish liquid communication with a source water supply line and a drain pipe of a water source-drainage system of, for example, a recreational vehicle (RV) (not shown), respectively.

[0122] As Figure 9 shown, the dispenser 200 (similar to the dispensers 100, 300, 400, and 500) may also include an ultraviolet disinfection module 227 disposed in the cooling treatment water tank 224 to irradiate the cooled treated water with ultraviolet radiation.

[0123] In Figure 10 Another exemplary embodiment shown, the dispenser 600 (similar to the dispensers 200, 300, 400, and 500) includes an accessory storage compartment 676 in addition to the cooling storage chamber 622. The accessory storage compartment 676 allows storage of various accessories (e.g., cups, utensils, tools, charging cables, etc.). The accessory storage compartment may optionally be cooled by a cooling system, for example, allowing the accessory storage compartment to function as a bait tank or to provide additional cooling storage other than the cooling storage chamber 622. When cooled, the storage compartment 676 can be cooled to a temperature different from that of the storage chamber 622, thereby allowing perishable items to be stored at different temperatures. For example, the accessory storage compartment 676 can be cooled to a refrigerated temperature (e.g., between 2°C and 20°C), while the cooling storage chamber 622 can be maintained under freezing conditions, e.g., below 0°C.

[0124] In another configuration, as Figures 11A to 11B shown, the dispenser 700 (similar to the dispensers 200, 300, 400, and 500) includes a drinking glass cooling module 770 defined in the housing 702, and the drinking glass cooling module 770 is configured to cool a drinking glass 774 (or bottle) that is removably received in the drinking glass cooling module 770. The drinking glass cooling module 770 is generally cooled by a cooling system, for example, by flowing cooling water from the cooling treatment water tank 724.

[0125] A drinking glass cooling module typically has a cavity 772 that is adapted to removably receive a drinking glass 774 or a bottle (e.g., having a volume between 200 mL and 1000 mL), and the drinking glass cooling module cools the glass or bottle within the cavity 772. The drinking glass cooling module can be configured to maintain the glass or bottle (and its contents) at a desired drinking temperature for the user, which can be the same as or different from the chilled storage temperature 722 or the same as or different from the drinking temperature of the chilled treated water.

[0126] The drinking glass cooling module 770 can also include an ultraviolet radiation unit 776 for disinfecting the drinking glass (or bottle) and its contents when received within the cavity 772. Figure 11C An exemplary suitable glass 774 is shown, the glass 774 having an ultraviolet radiation transmissive portion 778 at its bottom. It should be understood that depending on the location of the ultraviolet radiation unit 776 within the module 770, the glass or bottle can be made primarily or mostly of ultraviolet radiation transmissive material.

Claims

1. A portable water dispenser having a housing and a lid, and comprising within the housing: A water treatment module including a user-accessible water supply reservoir and one or more water treatment units fluidly connected to the water supply reservoir, the one or more water treatment units configured to treat source water to obtain treated water; A cooling treatment water tank fluidly connected to the water treatment module and configured to cool the treated water in the cooling treatment water tank to a drinking temperature; A dispensing nozzle unit fluidly connected to the cooling treatment water tank; A user-accessible cooling storage chamber; And A cooling system configured to selectively cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber.

2. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The water treatment module further includes a reservoir for treated water, the reservoir for treated water being fluidly connected to the one or more water treatment units and disposed upstream of the cooling treatment water tank.

3. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The water treatment module is detachably attached to the cooling treatment water tank.

4. The dispenser according to claim 3, wherein, The water treatment module is user-replaceable.

5. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more water treatment units are user-replaceable.

6. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more water treatment units are selected from a water filtration unit and a reverse osmosis (RO) unit.

7. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling system is configured to simultaneously cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber.

8. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling system is configured to alternately cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber.

9. The dispenser according to claim 8, wherein, The cooling system is configured to alternately cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber according to a predetermined cooling sequence.

10. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The drinking temperature is between about 2°C and about 25°C.

11. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling system is configured to cool and maintain the user-accessible cooling storage chamber at a temperature between about -20°C and about 25°C.

12. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The dispensing nozzle unit is capable of switching between a dispensing position and a retracted position, in the dispensing position, the dispensing nozzle extends substantially perpendicular to a wall portion of the housing, and in the retracted position, the dispensing nozzle folds onto the wall portion.

13. The dispenser according to claim 12, wherein, In the retracted position, the dispensing nozzle is flush with a side wall of the housing.

14. The dispenser according to claim 12, wherein, The wall portion houses an ultraviolet disinfection lamp configured to irradiate the dispensing nozzle when the dispensing nozzle is in the retracted position.

15. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the lid is a hinged lid.

16. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, A cover is defined in the lid, the cover configured to provide access to the cooling storage chamber independently of the lid.

17. The dispenser according to claim 16, wherein, The cover is a hinged cover.

18. The dispenser according to claim 16, wherein, The cover is configured to be selectively associated with the lid to allow the lid and the cover to be opened and closed together.

19. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a drip tray.

20. The dispenser according to claim 19, wherein, The drip tray is vertically located below the dispensing nozzle and is substantially aligned with the dispensing nozzle.

21. The dispenser according to claim 19, wherein, The drip tray is capable of being detachably attached to the housing.

22. The dispenser according to claim 19, wherein, The drip tray is foldable between a folded position and an unfolded position. In the folded position, the drip tray is substantially flush with the side wall of the housing. In the unfolded position, when the dispensing nozzle is in the dispensing position, the drip tray extends substantially perpendicular to the side wall of the housing and substantially parallel to the dispensing nozzle.

23. The dispenser according to claim 19, further comprising a linkage device that links between the dispensing nozzle and the drip tray. The linkage device is configured to switch the dispensing nozzle and the drip tray to the corresponding dispensing position and unfolded position substantially simultaneously.

24. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling system is battery-powered.

25. The dispenser according to claim 24, wherein, The housing includes a battery pack compartment configured to receive one or more batteries for powering the cooling system.

26. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The water treatment module further includes an ultraviolet disinfection unit.

27. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising an ultraviolet disinfection module disposed in the cooling treatment water tank.

28. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising at least one accessory storage compartment.

29. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising at least one drinking glass cooling module configured to cool at least one drinking glass removably received in the at least one drinking glass cooling module.

30. The dispenser according to claim 29, wherein, The drinking glass cooling module is cooled by the cooling system.

31. The dispenser according to claim 29, wherein, The drinking glass cooling module includes an ultraviolet radiation unit for disinfecting the drinking glass when the drinking glass is received within the drinking glass cooling module.

32. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The user-accessible water supply reservoir has a volume between approximately 0.5 liters and approximately 20 liters.

33. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The cooling treatment water tank has a volume between approximately 0.5 liters and approximately 25 liters.

34. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The user-accessible cooling storage chamber has a volume between approximately 0.5 liters and approximately 20 liters.

35. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The portable dispenser has a total weight of no more than approximately 25 kg.

36. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein The housing is configured for detachable attachment to a mounting platform or a truck bed.

37. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein, The housing is configured to be detachably attached to a toolbox or a stack of toolboxes.

38. The dispenser according to claim 1, wherein the housing is configured to be detachably attached to a trolley or an L-shaped trolley.

39. The dispenser according to claim 1, further comprising a movement device.

40. The dispenser according to claim 39, wherein, The movement device is switchable between a retracted position and a protruding position. In the retracted position, the movement device is retracted into a movement device space defined within the housing. In the protruding position, the movement device protrudes outside the housing.

41. The dispenser according to claim 39, wherein, The movement device is detachably attachable to the housing.

42. A portable water distribution system configured to be removably received within a housing, the distribution system comprising: A water treatment module including a user-accessible water supply reservoir and one or more water treatment units in fluid communication with the water supply reservoir. The one or more water treatment units are configured to treat source water to obtain treated water; A cooling treatment water tank, the cooling treatment water tank being in fluid communication with the water treatment module and configured to cool the treated water in the cooling treatment water tank to drinking temperature; A dispensing nozzle unit, the dispensing nozzle unit being in fluid communication with the cooling treatment water tank; A user-accessible cooling storage chamber; and A cooling system, the cooling system being configured to selectively cool the cooling treatment water tank and the user-accessible cooling storage chamber.

Images