A smart water dispensing system and a method thereof

Abstract

A smart water dispensing system and a method thereof is disclosed. A sensor (105) detects a parameter from a user (110) and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a potable water. A microphone (115) receives a voice input from the user for a water type. A camera (120) captures images or video streams pertaining to the user. A processor (125) executes to receive data from the sensors and the camera, analyse the data using an artificial intelligence model (220) to determine a temperature for the potable water, control a dispense of the water type, provide dispensing details for generating a health card, allow payment, advertise via a multimedia file, provide expert answers, display water consumption data, notify an administrator of malfunction, and control actuator movement to adjust drinking water tap height based on user height, and a water purifier. FIG. 1

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a field of liquid dispensing unit and more particularly to a smart water dispensing system and a method thereof.BACKGROUND

[0002] Access to safe and clean drinking water remains a critical global concern, particularly in densely populated urban regions, remote rural areas, and during emergency conditions. Although various methods and infrastructures for water distribution have been developed over time, many people still face challenges in accessing potable water consistently and conveniently. Users often encounter difficulties in locating and accessing reliable sources of clean water, and consumption of impure water continues to be a leading cause of health issues worldwide. The growing concerns related to contamination, lack of purification, and inconsistent availability necessitate improved solutions for water provisioning across diverse environments.

[0003] Historically, water distribution systems have relied heavily on manual infrastructure, such as public taps, hand pumps, and bottled water services. While these systems provide basic access, they often fail to ensure quality, cleanliness, or personalization based on the user's needs or physiological condition.

[0004] In recent years, the integration of automation technologies into utility services has shown significant promise. Automatic water vending machines, for example, are now seen in public places to provide access to clean drinking water. However, these systems are often limited to basic dispensing functions and lack adaptability to individual preferences, physical conditions, or real-time environmental data. Moreover, these systems do not usually incorporate voice interaction, health diagnostics, or adaptive dispensing mechanisms based on real-time analysis.

[0005] Additionally, in environments such as educational institutions, healthcare centres, and public utilities, there is a need for centralized tracking and management of drinking water consumption patterns of users. Traditional systems are also typically devoid of any health-tracking mechanisms or intelligent feedback loops, which could otherwise help regulate individual water consumption habits or prevent water-related health issues. Such data could help in annual resource planning, identifying dehydration trends, and encouraging better hydration practices

[0006] Hence, there is a need for an improved smart water dispensing system and a method thereof to address the aforementioned issue(s).OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The primary objective of the invention is to provide a smart water dispensing system that delivers clean and potable water in a personalized, efficient, and hygienic manner based on real-time user-specific data such as body temperature, voice analysis, hydration needs, and environmental conditions.

[0008] Another objective of the invention is to enable an intelligent interaction with users through voice commands and biometric identification, allowing for the dispensing of specific types or combinations of water, such as mineral water, hydrogen water, live water, and natural water, in precise quantities as per individual preferences or health requirements.

[0009] Yet another objective of the invention is to incorporate a multi-sensor environment and AI-enabled cameras for accurately analysing user posture, presence, physical state, and behavioural cues to facilitate adaptive water dispensing in real time.

[0010] Yet another objective of the invention is to maintain a digital water drinking health card for each user, capable of tracking and reporting their daily, weekly, or annual water consumption, drinking habits, and hydration cycles, and to share this data with institutions or administrators for planning and monitoring purposes.

[0011] Yet another objective of the invention is to inclusive and accessible water dispensing features, such as height-adjustable water taps, Braille instructions, and touch-free interaction, making the system suitable for use by children, elderly individuals, and people with special needs.

[0012] Yet another objective of the invention is to ensure sustainability and resilience of the water dispensing system by integrating renewable energy sources like solar or wind power, along with automated alerts for maintenance, material replenishment, and real-time technical diagnostics using AI / ML algorithms.BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0013] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a smart water dispensing system is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of sensors configured to detect a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water. The system includes a microphone configured to receive a plurality of voice inputs from the user indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water. The system includes a camera configured to capture one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user. The system also includes a processor, and a memory coupled to the processor. The memory includes instructions that when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive data from the plurality of sensors and the camera; analyze the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water; control a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types; provide details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user; allow the user to make payment corresponding to one or more services; advertise the user with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation; provide personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life; display informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface; notify an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report; and control movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting a height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user. The system includes a water purifier unit adapted to purify the water obtained from a dispensing unit.

[0014] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for operating a smart water dispensing system is disclosed. The method includes detecting, by a plurality of sensors, a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water. The method includes receiving, by a microphone, a plurality of voice inputs from the user indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water. The method includes capturing, by a camera, one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user. The method includes receiving, by a processor, data from the plurality of sensors and the camera. The method includes analyzing, by the processor, the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water. The method includes controlling, by the processor, a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types. The method includes providing, by the processor, details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user. The method includes allowing, through the processor, the user to make payments corresponding to one or more services. The method includes advertising, by the processor, the user with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation. The method includes providing, by the processor, personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life. The method includes displaying, by the processor, informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface. The method includes notifying, by the processor, an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report. The method includes controlling, by the processor, movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting height based on height of the user. The method includes purifying, by a water purifying unit, the water obtained from a dispensing unit.

[0015] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram representation of an exemplary network architecture in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a smart dispensing system of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 3 (a) is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a smart water dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0020] FIG. 3 (b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 3 (a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0023] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, sub-systems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional sub-systems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0024] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.

[0025] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0026] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a smart water dispensing system is provided. The system includes a plurality of sensors configured to detect a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water. The system includes a microphone configured to receive a plurality of voice inputs from the user indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water. The system includes a camera configured to capture one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user. The system also includes a processor, and a memory coupled to the processor. The memory includes instructions that when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive data from the plurality of sensors and the camera; analyze the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water; control a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types; provide details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user; allow the user to make payment corresponding to one or more services; advertise the user with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation; provide personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life; display informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface; notify an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report; and control movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting a height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user. The system includes a water purifier unit adapted to purify the water obtained from a dispensing unit.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram representation of an exemplary network architecture in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 1, a user device (150) operated by a user (110) may be communicatively coupled to a smart water dispensing system (100). Examples of the user device (150) includes, but is not limited to, a mobile phone, desktop computer, portable digital assistant (PDA), smart phone, tablet, ultra-book, netbook, laptop, multi-processor system, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronic system, or any other communication device that a user may use. Further, the user (110) is a person interacting with the smart water dispensing system (100). It will be appreciated that the smart water dispensing system (100) may be accessed on the user device (150) as a web application accessed through a browser, through a software application on the user device (150), or, particularly for smartphones, through a mobile application installed on the user device. It will be appreciated that, within the context of the disclosure herein, web application refers to a utility implemented on a networked computing system accessible by user device over the Internet (e.g. through browsers) wherein the bulk of the processing takes place at the networked computing system, mobile applications refer to applications installed on smartphones that may communicate with a networked computing system, and a "software" application refers generally to applications other than web browsers installed on other types of user device that may communicate with a networked computing system over the communication network (160).

[0028] The communication network (160) may be a single communication network or a combination of multiple communication networks and may use a variety of different communication protocols. The communication network (160) may be a wireless network, a wired network, or a combination thereof. Examples of such individual personalized networks include, but are not limited to, Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) network, Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) network, Personal Communications Service (PCS) network, Time Division Multiple Access TDMA) network, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) network, Next Generation Network (NON), Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN). Depending on the technology, the personalized network (106) may include various network entities, such as gateways and routers, however, such details have been omitted for the sake of brevity of the present description.

[0029] The smart water dispensing system (100) may have a homepage that is presented to the user (110) to access a top-level web address for web applications presented to the user (110) in a browser or a welcome screen for software and mobile applications. The homepage may include links to a user log-in interface or general information about the smart water dispensing system (100) and the option to register. It will be appreciated that the presentation of a homepage may not be necessary, for example, if a user bypasses it by directly inputting a web address corresponding to a user log-in page, or if a separate mobile application is designed for users.

[0030] A new or unregistered user (110) can access the user log-in interface, fill out the log-in information corresponding to the user's account, and indicate that the user wishes to sign in. It will be appreciated that any conventional registration and log-in techniques for web applications, software application, and mobile applications may be used, whichever is appropriate for the user. While registering the user (110) may be prompted to provide username and corresponding user credentials, not limited to, password, geographical location, and contact information and upon receipt of the foregoing information, a corresponding user-profile may be created and stored on a respective database of the smart water dispensing system (100).

[0031] The smart water dispensing system (100) is operatively coupled to a water source (155). The water source (155) may be defined as any location where water is collected or extracted that requires treatment to become safe for consumption and for other purposes. Examples of the water source (155) includes, but is not limited to, rivers, lakes, and groundwater.

[0032] Further, the smart water dispensing system (100) includes a power unit (145), coin activation unit (135), control unit (140), microphone (115), camera (120), sensors (105), water purifier unit (130), memory (130) and a processor (125).

[0033] The power unit (145) is adapted to supply electrical power to a battery and a charge controller, wherein the power unit (145) is further configured to harvest energy from one or more renewable energy sources, including solar (from sunlight) and wind energy (via a turbine or similar mechanism). The charge controller may manage the flow of electricity to and from the battery to avoid overcharging.

[0034] The coin activation unit (135) is adapted to receive one or more coins from the user to actuate the working of the smart water dispensing system (100). Additionally, the coin activation unit (135) is operatively coupled to the control unit (140). The coin activation unit (135) checks the one or more coins to confirm validity and subsequently sends the information to the control unit (140). The control unit (140) controls the dispense of the desired volume of water upon validation of the one or more coins inserted by the user (110).

[0035] The microphone (115) is configured to receive a plurality of voice inputs from the user (110) indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type. The user (110) speaks a request into the microphone (115). The plurality of inputs refers to multiple voice commands or phrases and not just a single word. For instance, the user (110) may say "Give me 300 ml of chilled water" or "I want half warm and half cold water". Typically, the microphone (115) is a built-in audio input device that is adapted to listen to voice commands from the user (110). The water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water. Examples, of the types of water includes, but is not limited to, chilled water, warm water, mineral water, sparkling water and alkaline water. The one or more types of water refers to a mixture of the said examples in fixed ratios. The smart water dispensing system combines predetermined amounts of various water types to fulfil the user's request.

[0036] The camera (120) configured to capture one or more images (snapshots) or video streams (continuous video streams) pertaining to the user (110). Typically, the camera (120) captures visual information about the user. Examples of the visual information includes, but is not limited to, face (for identity or emotion detection), body position (to detect if the user is present or waiting), gestures (to interpret hand motions) and interaction with the machine (e.g., placing a glass, making a hand signal).

[0037] The plurality of sensors (105) are configured to detect a plurality of parameters from a user (110) and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water. Examples of the plurality of sensors (105) includes, but is not limited to, proximity sensors, temperature sensors, Infrared (IR) sensors, touch sensors, motion detectors, humidity sensors, and air quality sensors. Each of the plurality of sensors (105) is adapted to measure or monitor different data points (parameters). Specifically, the plurality of sensors (105) may identify the presence / absence of the user (110), distance from the smart water dispensing system (100), hand or body position, movements and voice level, from the user. Additionally, the plurality of sensors (105) may identify ambient temperature, humidity levels, light levels, air cleanliness and safety factors (for instance, smoke or gas), from the surrounding environment.

[0038] The water purifier unit (130) is adapted to purify the water obtained from a dispensing unit. Further, the water purifier unit (130) may include one or more filtration and treatment technologies such as, but not limited to, sediment filters, activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis (RO) membranes, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, ultrafiltration (UF) and mineral cartridges (for taste enhancement).

[0039] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a smart water dispensing system (100) is provided. The smart water dispensing system (100) comprises a processor (125) and a machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor (125), cause the processor (125) to: receive data from the plurality of sensors and the camera; analyze the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water; control a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types; provide details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user (110); allow the user (110) to make payment corresponding to one or more services; advertise the user (110) with a multimedia file via a user interface (275), wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation; provide personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life; display informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface; notify an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report; and control movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting a height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user (110).

[0040] It may be noted that the foregoing system is an exemplary system and may be implemented as computer executable instructions in any computing or processing environment, including in digital electronic circuitry or in computer hardware, firmware, device driver, or software. As such, the system is not limited to any specific hardware or software configuration.

[0041] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic diagram of a smart water dispensing system of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The functions of various elements shown in the figs., including any functional blocks labelled as "processor(s)" (210), may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing instructions. The processor (210) may be the same processor (125) of FIG. 1. When provided by a processor (210), the functions may be provided by a single dedicated processor, by a single shared processor, or by a plurality of individual processors, some of which may be shared. Moreover, explicit use of the term "processor" would not be construed to refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing instructions, and may implicitly comprise, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, network processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA). Other hardware, standard and / or custom, may also be coupled to the processor(s).

[0042] The memory(s) (205) may be a computer-readable medium, examples of which comprise volatile memory (e.g., RAM), and / or non-volatile memory (e.g., Erasable Programmable read-only memory, i.e. EPROM, flash memory, etc.). The memory(s) may be an external memory, or internal memory, such as a flash drive, a compact disk drive, an external hard disk drive, or the like. The smart water dispensing system (100) may further include the user interface (275) that may allow the connection or coupling of the smart water dispensing system (100) with one or more other devices, through a wired (e.g., Local Area Network, i.e., LAN) connection or through a wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi)., for example, for connecting to the user device (150) as shown in FIG. 1. The user interface (275) may also enable intercommunication between different logical as well as hardware components of the smart water dispensing system (100).

[0043] The smart water dispensing system (100) may include module(s). The module(s) may include a receiving module (215), an artificial intelligence model (220), an analysis module (225), a control module (230), an announcement module (235), a payment module (240), a health card module (245) and a query module (250). In one example, the module(s) may be implemented as a combination of hardware and firmware. In an example described herein, such combinations of hardware and firmware may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the firmware for module(s) may be processor (300) executable instructions stored on a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the module(s) may include a processing resource (for example, implemented as either single processor or combination of multiple processors), to execute such instructions. Further, the hardware for the module(s) may include communication apparatuses, control circuitries involving electrical and electronics components, sensors, and interface devices, which may be in communication with each other for multi-directional communication therebetween.

[0044] In the present examples, the non-transitory machine-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the functionalities of modules(s). In such examples, the smart water dispensing system (100) may include the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions. In other examples of the present subject matter, the machine-readable storage medium may be located at a different location but accessible to the smart water dispensing system (100) and the processor(s) (210).

[0045] Further, the smart water dispensing system (100) may include data. The data may include sensor data (255), voice input (260), health card data (265) and multimedia files (270). It may be noted here that data may include data that is either received, stored, or generated as a result of functions implemented by the smart water dispensing system. It may be further noted that the data may be utilized by the modules of the smart water dispensing system for performing various functions of the smart water dispensing system.

[0046] The smart water dispensing system may be provided with a database (280) to store user profiles, water dispensing records, maintenance history, payment and transaction data and user queries. In an example implementation of the smart water dispensing system (100) including one or more servers, the databases may databases local to the server or may be remote to the server. It may be noted that the data in the databases may be stored as a table or may be pre-stored as a mapping with the other. This application is not limited thereto.

[0047] In operation, when the user (110) requests for water (via voice or gestures), the smart water dispensing system (100) activates a plurality of sensors (105) and collects the data from the environment and the user (110). Specifically, the plurality of sensors (105) are configured to detect a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water. The smart water dispensing system (100) also includes a microphone (115) and a camera (120) to capture a plurality of voice inputs and one or more images or video streams of the user respectively. The user (110) may request for a desired volume of water and a specific water type. The water type refers to a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water.

[0048] The collective data from the plurality of sensors (105), microphone (115) and camera (120) is then transmitted to a receiving module (215) configured on the smart water dispensing system (100). It must be noted that the data may include real-time data such as the user's distance from the machine, the user's facial expressions, environmental temperature, lighting conditions, gestures and so on. This data is then analysed further to decide how to serve water to the user by an analysis module.

[0049] The analysis module (225) uses the Artificial Intelligence (AI) model (220) to analyze the data in a plurality of layers to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water. Additionally, the analysis module (225) also uses the AI model (220) to analyze the voice of the user for verification. The plurality of layers may refer to how the AI model (220) processes the data in several stages or levels. Examples of the AI model (220) includes, but is not limited to, a convolutional neural network (CNN) for analysing images, a recurrent neural network (RNN) or transformer for processing sequences of data and a decision tree or ensemble model for combining input features. It must be noted that the AI model (220) is trained on data about users, preferences, environmental conditions, and outcomes to make smart decisions.

[0050] Based on the analysis, the AI model (220) predicts or selects the most appropriate water temperature based on the user request. For instance, the user may request for chilled water on a hot day, warm water on a chill day or if the user is elderly, room temperature water if the environment or user gestures suggest discomfort with extremes.

[0051] Subsequent to the analysis, the control module (230) is configured to control a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone. The desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types. The control module (230) may be interpreted as the central brain of the smart water dispensing system (100). Further, the control module (230) is configured to interpret commands, manage valves, pumps and temperature settings. Specifically, the control module (230) manages the actual release of the desired water into the user's cup or bottle. Examples of the types of water includes, but is not limited to, cold water, hot water, alkaline water, mineral water and room temperature water. The final dispensed volume of water is a custom mixture made from a combination of the said types of water. For instance, if the voice input is "One litre, 70 % chilled and 30% alkaline", then the control module precisely measures and dispenses water with the combination of 700 ml chilled and 300 ml alkaline.

[0052] In one embodiment, the control module (230) is configured to control movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting a height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user. Typically, the actuator is a mechanical device that performs a physical movement. Here, the actuator is attached to or associated with the drinking water tap and is capable of raising or lowering it. The smart water dispensing system (100) detects the height of the user and uses that information to dynamically adjust the tap's position. This creates a more personalized, ergonomic, and accessible experience. The drinking water tap refers to an outlet or nozzle from where the potable water is dispensed. Further, the drinking water tap is likely mounted on a vertical or telescopic mechanism that allows its position to change.

[0053] Further, the health card module (245) is configured to provide details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user. The smart water dispensing system (100) logs and shares detailed information about each water dispensing event such as, volume dispensed, time and date of dispensing, user id or profile, frequency of usage and location. These details reflects the hydration habits of the user. The smart water dispensing system (100) also records the types of water dispensed. This is vital as the nutritional or health impact of the water type may vary and becomes relevant for health tracking purposes. For instance, alkaline water may aid digestion, and mineral water may boost electrolyte levels.

[0054] Further, the third-party source refers to external systems that are not part of the smart water dispensing system (100). Examples of the third-party source includes, but is not limited to, a mobile health app, a cloud-based health analytics platform, a healthcare provider's database, an employer's wellness program and a fitness tracking service.

[0055] In one embodiment, the details may be provided to the third-party source through Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, encrypted data packets to ensure privacy or APIs (Application Programming Interface).

[0056] Further, the health card module (245) tracks and monitors the user's hydration behaviour. The health card may include, but not limited to, username, hydration history, preferred water types, average daily intake, alerts and recommendations. This health card may be viewed in a mobile app, exported as a PDF report, shared with a doctor or nutritionist or integrated into a broader wellness ecosystem.

[0057] In one embodiment, the health card module (245) is configured to create and maintain a personal water drinking health card for the user for a predetermined time period, wherein the health card includes data related to the user's water consumption habits, time cycle, hydration levels, and recommended intake.

[0058] The payment module (240) is configured to allow the user to make payment corresponding to one or more services. The user (110) is prompted or requested to make a payment before accessing the one or more services. The payment may be prepaid, postpaid or subscription based. Further, the payment may be tied to specific services that the user selects. Examples of the services includes, but is not limited to, water dispensing, custom water mixing, health card generation and invoice download.

[0059] In one embodiment, the payment module (240) may include a touchscreen interface for selection and payment, a card reader, a QR code scanner, an NFC for contactless payments and so on to facilitate the payment process.

[0060] In one embodiment, the payment module (240) is configured to include a water donation feature which allows user (110) to voluntarily contribute a monetary amount, particularly aimed at providing free or subsidized drinking water to other users. This feature is integrated within the payment module (240) and displayed via the user interface (275), enabling seamless and secure donation transactions directly from the system's interactive panel or connected mobile application. When a user (110) receives their glass of potable water, they are optionally prompted either through visual display or voice-based interaction to donate an amount of their choice.

[0061] An example of such a donation feature includes, but is not limited to, via the user interface (275) offering a "Donate for Water Access" option after the completion of a water dispensing session. The option can be presented in multiple formats touchscreen prompt, voice-based query, or quick-pay QR code that links to digital payment gateways such as UPI, credit / debit card, or wallet-based platforms.

[0062] The announcement module (235) is configured to advertise the user with a multimedia file via a user interface (275), wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation. It must be noted that the term 'advertise' may not refer to selling of a product but may refer to public messaging or awareness-building. The multimedia file may include content pertaining to education and eco-conscious to raise awareness about saving water. Examples of the multimedia file includes, but is not limited to, video clips, audio recordings, image or slideshows, and animated graphics. The multimedia files may be delivered via an interactive screen or output device that the user can see or hear while using the smart water dispensing system (100). Examples of the user interface includes, but is not limited to, a touchscreen display, an LCD panel, and a voice prompt.

[0063] In one embodiment, the announcement module (235) is configured to display informative details regarding water consumption via the user interface (275).

[0064] In another embodiment, the announcement module (235) is configured to notify an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report. The administrator is someone responsible for monitoring, managing, or maintaining the water dispensing system. In one embodiment, the announcement module may send alerts or notifications to a designated person (administrator, technician, or support staff) via a SMS, email, push notification in a mobile app or a dashboard. Further, the malfunction may refer to a sensor failure, water not dispensing, payment system error, temperature control issue, actuator (for instance, tap height adjuster) not working and filter / purifier clogging. The technical report may include details such as, but not limited to, error code, timestamp, affected components, sensor readings at time of fault and suggested resolution steps. This helps the administrator to quickly understand the problem and required actions. This ensures timely maintenance, reduces downtime, and maintains user safety and service quality.

[0065] In one embodiment, the data which includes details like water and electricity consumption, total quantity used, cost, donations, types of water supplied throughout the day and so on is presented daily to the administrators for recording and preservation.

[0066] The query module (250) is configured to provide personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life. The user (110) may ask questions via a voice input, touchscreen typing or through a mobile app interface. The user (110) receives instant feedback or answers as soon as he / she asks a question. The smart water dispensing system (100) may connect to a database or a network of verified experts. The experts may be hydration specialists, environmental scientists, dietitians, water quality engineers and conservation experts. For instance, the user may ask "How much alkaline water should I drink in a day?". The query module may respond as "According to Dr. Aditi Sharma, a hydration specialist, most adults can safely consume 1-2 litres of alkaline water daily unless advised otherwise by a doctor." This transforms a standard water system into an interactive knowledge hub, enhancing the user experience with both service and science.

[0067] In another embodiment, the smart water dispensing system (100) maybe adapted to operate in a space environment or one or more atmospheric conditions. The water dispensing system (100) is adapted to operate effectively in non-terrestrial and the one or more atmospheric environments, including but not limited to outer space, high-altitude zones, low-pressure environments, and artificially controlled atmospheric chambers. The smart water dispensing system (100) maybe adapted with the environment's stabilization modules and a specialized sensor calibrations to account for variations in gravity, temperature, pressure, and humidity that may impact fluid dynamics and sensor accuracy.

[0068] Consider a non-limiting example wherein a user "X" walks up to the smart water dispensing system installed at his / her work environment and wants a custom mix of water types suited to his hydration needs. Various sensors detect multiple parameters, for instance, ambient temperature is 32°C, User X's body temperature is 37°C (mildly elevated), humidity level is high, and Proximity sensor confirms he's within range. User "X" gives a voice input "Give me 500 ml, half mineral water and half alkaline water.". The microphone captures the volume as 500 ml and water type as 50% mineral water, 50% alkaline water. The camera then captures user "X" image to recognize him / her, estimate his / her height and log the interaction for personal health records. The processor receives the voice input, sensor readings and image from the camera. The processor uses an AI model to analyse ambient and body temperature, decide an optimal water temperature (for instance, slightly cool at 18°C for hydration in warm weather) and determine user X's identity from image (linked to his health profile). Based on user "X's" voice input, the dispenser mixes 250 ml of mineral water + 250 ml of alkaline water, sets water temperature to 18°C and prompts the user (110) for confirmation before dispensing. The smart water dispensing system (100) is configured to suggest the customized water mix and, upon the user (110) approval, proceed with dispensing through an adjusted-height tap. The processor then logs Water type, volume, temperature, Time of dispense and Environmental conditions. This data is sent to a third-party health system. Further, user "X's" hydration card is updated for daily water intake tracking. User "X" may tap his / her smartwatch to pay for the dispensed water.

[0069] Further, while dispensing the water, a video is played on the screen to create awareness on water conservation. User "X" asks a query, "Is alkaline water good for post-workout hydration?". The processor sends the query to the expert system and returns the answer "According to Dr. Sharma (Hydration Expert): Yes, alkaline water may help neutralize lactic acid after intense workouts. Best consumed within 30 minutes."

[0070] FIG. 3 (a) is a flow chart representing the steps involved in a method for operating a smart water dispensing system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 3 (b) illustrates continued steps of the method of FIG. 3 (a) in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (300) includes detecting, by a plurality of sensors, a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water at step 305. The plurality of sensors are activated when the user approaches in close proximity with the smart water dispensing system. Subsequently, when the user makes a request for water, real-time data is gathered by the plurality of sensors. The sensors capture both user-specific parameters (like body temperature, proximity) and environmental data (like room temperature and humidity). This data feeds into subsequent AI-driven decisions about how to dispense the potable water in a personalized and efficient manner.

[0071] The method (300) includes receiving, by a microphone, a plurality of voice inputs from the user indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water at step 310. The microphone captures voice commands from the user that specify a desired water volume and a combination of water types (like mineral + alkaline). These voice inputs are interpreted to customize the water mixture based on predetermined proportions, allowing a smart and flexible way to dispense potable water based on user preferences.

[0072] The method (300) includes capturing, by a camera, one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user at step 315. The camera captures visual data (photos or videos) of the user as they interact with the water dispenser. This data is used to personalize the experience, improve safety, enable hands-free control, or support automated logging and diagnostics.

[0073] The method (300) includes receiving, by a processor, data from the plurality of sensors and the camera at step 320. All relevant data from the sensors and camera, including environmental conditions, user biometrics, and visual information is received by the processor. This step is essential for the smart water dispensing system to proceed intelligently with further analysis, decision-making, and ultimately, customized water dispensing.

[0074] The method (300) includes analyzing, by the processor, the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water at step 325. The processor uses an AI model to analyse various user and environmental data in multiple logical layers and smartly determines the optimal water temperature to dispense. This intelligent decision-making enables a more personalized, health-conscious, and adaptive water dispensing experience.

[0075] The method (300) includes controlling, by the processor, a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types at step 330. The smart water dispensing system uses a voice input to determine how much and what type of water to dispense. The processor controls valves and flow mechanisms to deliver an exact volume, possibly composed of multiple water types, such as alkaline, mineral, or RO, based on the user's spoken preferences.

[0076] The method (300) includes providing, by the processor, details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user at step 335. The detailed data about the dispensed water, including type, volume, and timing to a third-party health system, which uses this data to generate or update a health card for the user. This allows users to monitor and manage their hydration habits as part of a broader health and wellness profile.

[0077] The method (300) includes allowing, by the processor, the user to make payment corresponding to one or more services at step 340. The smart dispenser system allows the user to make digital payments for services like water dispensing, expert guidance, or health reports. The processor integrates with a payment module to securely process these transactions, supporting automated and user-friendly monetization of the system's services.

[0078] The method (300) includes advertising, by the processor, the user with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation at step 345. The processor uses the dispenser's user interface to display multimedia content (like videos or images) that shares educational messages about water conservation. This encourages users to be more aware of their water usage and supports global sustainability efforts, all while interacting with the smart water dispensing system.

[0079] The method (300) includes providing, by the processor, personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life at step 350. The smart water dispensing system enables users to ask real-time questions about water health, hydration, and wellness. The processor then retrieves personalized, expert-level answers, either from live professionals or curated expert systems, making the smart water dispensing system not just a dispenser, but a knowledge-enabled health assistant.

[0080] The method (300) includes displaying, by the processor, informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface at step 355. The processor displays informative water consumption data on the user interface, helping users monitor and manage their hydration habits with clear, engaging feedback. This transparency supports healthier lifestyle choices and greater user engagement.

[0081] The method (300) includes notifying, by the processor, an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report at step 360. When the processor detects a malfunction in the smart water dispensing system, it automatically notifies the administrator by sending a detailed technical report. This proactive alert system helps ensure the equipment is maintained efficiently, reducing downtime and improving overall reliability.

[0082] The method (300) includes controlling, by the processor, movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user at step 365. The processor controls a motorized actuator to automatically adjust the height of the drinking water tap based on the user's measured height, ensuring comfortable and accessible water dispensing for users of varying statures.

[0083] The method (300) includes purifying, by a water purifying unit, the water obtained from a dispensing unit at step 370. The smart water dispensing system purifies the water coming from the dispensing unit by passing it through a dedicated water purifying unit, ensuring that the water served to the user is clean, safe, and of high quality.

[0084] Various embodiments of the smart water dispensing system as described above provide numerous advantages. The artificial model (220) analyses data to optimize water temperature and volume thereby reducing waste and conserving water. Further, the automatic detection of malfunctions triggers notification with technical reports to administrators, ensuring timely maintenance and minimizing downtime. The microphone (115) facilitates a voice-controlled dispensing of the required water thereby allowing a hands-free operation. The user interface (275) provides easy interaction and feedback. Further, the payment module (240) allows seamless, secure payment for water and related services, facilitating smooth user transactions and monetization. Furthermore, the announcement module (235) displays multimedia advertisements and informative that educate users about water conservation and hydration thereby promoting responsible usage.

[0085] The techniques described in this disclosure may be implemented, at least in part, in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. For example, various aspects of the described techniques may be implemented within one or more processors, including one or more microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or any other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuitry, as well as any combinations of such components. The term "processor" or "processing subsystem" may generally refer to any of the foregoing logic circuitry, alone or in combination with other logic circuitry, or any other equivalent circuitry. A control unit including hardware may also perform one or more of the techniques of this disclosure.

[0086] Such hardware, software, and firmware may be implemented within the same device or within separate devices to support the various techniques described in this disclosure. In addition, any of the described units, modules, or components may be implemented together or separately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. Depiction of different features as modules or units is intended to highlight different functional aspects and does not necessarily imply that such modules or units must be realized by separate hardware, firmware, or software components. Rather, functionality associated with one or more modules or units may be performed by separate hardware, firmware, or software components, or integrated within common or separate hardware, firmware, or software components.

[0087] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory of the disclosure and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0088] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person skilled in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0089] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, the order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependent on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.

Claims

1. A smart water dispensing system (100), comprising: a plurality of sensors (105) configured to detect a plurality of parameters from a user (110) and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water; a microphone (115) configured to receive a plurality of voice inputs from the user (110) indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water; a camera (120) configured to capture one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user (110); a processor (125); a memory (130) coupled to the processor (125), wherein the memory (130) comprises instructions that, when executed by the processor (125), cause the processor (125) to: receive data from the plurality of sensors and the camera; analyze the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water; control a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types; provide details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user (110); allow the user (110) to make payment corresponding to one or more services via a user device (150); advertise the user (110) with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation; provide personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life; display informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface (275); notify an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report; and control movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting a height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user (110); and a water purifier unit (130) adapted to purify the water obtained from a dispensing unit.

2. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the processor (125) to: analyze the voice of the user (110) by the artificial intelligence model for verification.

3. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a coin activation unit (135) adapted to receive one or more coins from the user (110); and a control unit (140) operatively coupled to the coin activation unit (135) wherein the control unit (140) controls the dispense of the desired volume of water upon validation of the one or more coins inserted by the user (110).

4. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the processor to: create and maintain a personal water drinking health card for the user (110) for a predetermined time period, wherein the health card includes data related to the user's water consumption habits, time cycle, hydration levels, and recommended intake.

5. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the processor to: provide operational instructions in Braille for visually impaired users, wherein the instructions correspond to a plurality of services such as payment, dispensing and user interaction.

6. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising: a power unit (145) adapted to supply electrical power to a battery and a charge controller, wherein the power unit (145) is further configured to harvest energy from one or more renewable energy sources, including solar and wind energy.

7. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, to cause the processor to: adjust a colour of a water tap based on a temperature of the dispensed water to act as a visual indication to the user (110).

8. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the water purifier unit (130) is operatively coupled to a water source (155) to receive collected water for treatment.

9. The smart water dispensing system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the smart water dispensing system (100) is adapted to operate in a space environment or one or more atmospheric conditions.

10. A method (300) for operating a smart water dispensing system, comprising: detecting, by a plurality of sensors, a plurality of parameters from a user and a surrounding environment in the event of the user making a request for a desired volume of potable water; (305) receiving, by a microphone, a plurality of voice inputs from the user indicative of a request for a desired volume of a water type, wherein the water type is a combination of predetermined volumes of one or more types of water; (310) capturing, by a camera, one or more images or video streams pertaining to the user; (315) receiving, by a processor, data from the plurality of sensors and the camera; (320) analyzing, by the processor, the data in a plurality of layers by using an artificial intelligence model to determine a temperature for the desired volume of potable water; (325) controlling, by the processor, a dispense of the desired volume of the water type based on a voice input captured by the microphone, wherein the desired volume of the water type comprises a combination of a plurality of water types; (330) providing, by the processor, details pertaining to the dispense of potable water and the water type to a third-party source wherein the details are used to generate a health card for the user; (335) allowing, by the processor, the user to make payment corresponding to one or more services; (340) advertising, by the processor, the user with a multimedia file via a user interface, wherein the multimedia file pertains to information about water conservation; (345) providing, by the processor, personalized answers from one or more experts in response to user queries in real time, wherein the personalized answers are fetched from one or more experts in the field of water life; (350) displaying, by the processor, informative details regarding water consumption via a user interface; (355) notifying, by the processor, an administrator in the event of a malfunction by providing a technical report; (360) controlling, by the processor, movement of an actuator pertaining to a drinking water tap thereby adjusting height of the drinking water tap based on height of the user; (365) and purifying, by a water purifying unit, the water obtained from a dispensing unit. (370)