A kit for repurposing a liquid

Abstract

According to the invention, there is provided a kit for repurposing a liquid (10) includes a collector (12) configured to collect condensate (not shown) generated by a portion of a refrigeration system (14 during operation of a refrigeration cycle, and a displacement mechanism (16) arranged in fluid communication with an outlet (not shown) of the collector (12) and configured to displace the collected condensate (not shown) to a desired destination (18).

Description

[0001] A KIT FOR REPURPOSING A LIQUID

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] This invention relates to a kit for repurposing a liquid. In particular, this invention relates to a kit for repurposing condensate produced by a refrigeration system.

[0004] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] According to the invention, there is provided a kit for repurposing a liquid including: - a collector configured to collect condensate generated by a portion of a refrigeration system during operation of a refrigeration cycle; and

[0006] a displacement mechanism arranged in fluid communication with an outlet of the collector and configured to displace the collected condensate to a desired destination.

[0007] The refrigeration cycle may involve the circulation of a refrigerant through various thermodynamic stages, including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. During operation of the refrigeration cycle, moisture from the surrounding air typically condenses on surfaces of the refrigeration system, such as on the evaporator coil, thereby producing condensate. Typically, the condensate may be in the form of water, although depending on environmental and system conditions, the condensate may also include trace amounts of refrigerant, dissolved atmospheric gases, or airborne particulate matter. The condensate may accumulate on one or more surfaces of the refrigeration system and may subsequently drip or flow towards a condensate drain or other collection point.

[0008] The refrigeration system may include any of the group including, but not limited to, a refrigerant, a compressor for compressing and displacing the refrigerant through the system, a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, an evaporator coil for evaporating the refrigerant into a gas, an expansion device for controlling the flow of the refrigerant, a temperature controlling device for controlling the temperature of thesystem, and a drier for removing moisture from the refrigerant. The refrigeration system may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers.

[0009] The collector may be in the form of any of the group including a container, a tray, and a pan. The collector may be manufactured from a material capable of withstanding exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and potential contaminants present in the condensate. The collector may include an inlet configured to receive the condensate from the portion of the refrigeration system. The inlet may be in the form of an opening defined in the collector. The opening may be shaped and positioned to optimise the capture of condensate as it drips, flows, and / or drains from the refrigeration system. The collector may be removably mounted or fixedly secured to the refrigeration system, preferably depending on installation requirements.

[0010] In one form of the invention, the portion of the refrigeration system may be a drain configured to receive condensate which may form on and drip off an evaporator coil of the refrigeration system. The drain may be arranged in fluid communication with the evaporator coil. The drain may be positioned below or adjacent to the evaporator coil to capture condensate under the influence of gravity. In this form of the invention, the collector may collect the condensate that forms on and drips off the evaporator coil and drained from the refrigeration system via the drain. The drain may be in the form of any one of the group including, but not limited to, a pipe, a tube, a tray, a pan, an aperture, and a channel. The drain may be formed integrally with the refrigeration system. Alternatively, the drain may be a separate component coupled to the refrigeration system at a drainage point.

[0011] In an alternative form of the invention, the portion of the refrigeration system may be the evaporator coil. In this form of the invention, the collector may be positioned to collect condensate that may form on and drip off the evaporator coil. In this form of the invention, the collector may define a drainage pathway or reservoir configured to directly capture the condensate as it forms. The drainage pathway may be located beneath or integrally formed with the evaporator coil. The drainage pathwaymay be shaped or contoured to guide the condensate toward the displacement mechanism.

[0012] The displacement mechanism may be arranged in fluid communication with the collector and the desired destination. The displacement mechanism may be in the form of a pump, preferably an electric pump. The pump may be configured to displace the collected condensate along a fluid pathway to the desired destination. The pump may be selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a centrifugal pump, a diaphragm pump, a peristaltic pump, piezoelectric pump, thermo-pneumatic pump, electrohydrodynamic pump, electro-osmotic pump, micro pump, and a piston pump. The pump may be in the form of a micro pump. The micro pump may be in the form of a diffuser or nozzle micro pump.

[0013] An energy source may be provided for supplying energy to the displacement mechanism. The energy source may be in the form of an electric energy source. The electric energy source may be configured to provide electrical power to operate the pump. The electric energy source may be in the form of an electrical energy supply that supplies power to the refrigeration system. Alternatively, the electric energy source may be in the form of an external electrical energy source. The external electrical energy source may be independent from the energy source used to supply power to the refrigeration system. The external energy source may be in the form of a battery. The battery may be rechargeable. Further alternatively, the external energy source may be in the form of a direct mains power connection or solar cell.

[0014] A pipe assembly may be provided for allowing fluid communication between the collector, the displacement mechanism, and the desired destination. The pipe assembly may be in the form of a plurality of pipes. A first pipe of the pipe assembly may be connectable at one end region to the outlet of the collector, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the displacement mechanism. A second pipe of the pipe assembly may be connectable at one end region to an outlet of the displacement mechanism, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the desired destination. The pipes of the pipe assembly may be manufactured fromany suitable metallic, natural, synthetic, and / or composite material or a combination thereof. It is to be appreciated that the material of the pipes may be selected according to required characteristics such as corrosion resistance, flexibility, cost, and ease of installation. The metallic material may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to steel, copper, cast iron, and aluminium. The steel may be selected from carbon steel, stainless steel, and galvanised steel. The synthetic material may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), rubber, nitrile rubber, and neoprene. The natural material may be in the form of clay. The composite material may be in the form of fibreglass reinforced plastic or reinforced concrete.

[0015] A valve may be provided for controlling the fluid communication between the collector, the displacement mechanism, and / or the desired destination. The valve may be arranged to selectively permit or restrict the flow of condensate along different portions of the pipe assembly. A plurality of valves may be provided for allowing a user to supply condensed fluid to a plurality of desired destinations. The valve may be connectable to the pipe assembly. The valve may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to a checkvalve, a shutoff valve, a pressure relief valve, and a pressure reducing valve.

[0016] A filter may be provided for filtering the condensate. The filter may reduce debris, sediment, microorganisms, or any other undesired matter from passing through the collector, pipe assembly, displacement mechanism, and / or desired destination. The filter may be arranged at any one or more of the locations including but not limited to the inlet of the collector, the outlet of the collector, the inlet of the displacement mechanism, the outlet of the displacement mechanism, the inlet of the desired destination, and within the pipe assembly. The filter may be arranged at the inlet of the displacement mechanism for reducing the number of smaller particles and / or microorganisms present in the condensate prior to entering the displacement mechanism. It is to be appreciated that such an arrangement may generally reducewear and clogging of the displacement mechanism. The filter may be selected from any of the group including a large particle filter, a small particle filer, and microorganism filter. The large particle filter may be selected from of any one or more of the group including but not limited to mesh filters, sediment filters, and bag filters. The small particle filter may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to carbon filters, pleated filters, and ceramic filters. The microorganism filter may be selected from any one or more of the group including reverse osmosis filters, ultra-violet (UV) filters, and ion exchange filters.

[0017] An indicator may be provided for indicating the volume of condensate in the collector. The indicator may be configured to provide a user with a measurable or perceptible indication of the quantity of condensate accumulated within the collector, thereby allowing the user to monitor condensate levels and take appropriate action, such as activating the displacement mechanism or performing maintenance. The indicator may be selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to a visual indicator, an electronic indicator, a mechanical indicator, and a pressurebased indicator.

[0018] The desired destination may be selected from any or more of the group including but not limited to a storage container, a faucet, a reservoir, an irrigation system, a water heater, a cooling system, a water feature, and a sewage system. The desired destination may be further selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a cleaning system such as a pressure washer or floor scrubber, a humidifier or misting system configured to reintroduce moisture into an environment, a greywater recycling system for domestic or commercial use, a chemical dilution system configured to mix condensate with concentrated cleaning agents, fertilizers, or other additives, an evaporative cooling tower, a heat exchanger system for thermal management, a firefighting system such as an emergency sprinkler reservoir, an industrial process system requiring low-grade process water, a flushing system for urinals, toilets, or laboratory sinks, a vehicle cleaning station or automated car wash system, and a laboratory apparatus requiring non-potable process water, such as a condenser bath or rinsing station. The desired destination may beconfigured to store, distribute, utilize, or dispose of the condensate, depending on the intended use case.

[0019] It is to be appreciated that the kit for repurposing a liquid may be sized, shaped, and / or configured based on the size, shape, and / or configuration of the refrigeration system and / or desired destination. The kit may be adapted to accommodate physical installation constraints, fluid volume requirements, flow rate demands, or environmental conditions associated with the refrigeration system and the intended end use. Components of the kit, such as the collector, the displacement mechanism, the pipe assembly, and the valves, may each be dimensioned and configured individually or collectively to suit the particular application.

[0020] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] A kit for repurposing a liquid in accordance with the invention will now be described by way of the following, non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] In the drawings: - Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a general kit for repurposing a liquid in accordance with the present invention;

[0023] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a kit for use with a standard refrigerator for repurposing collected condensate for use as a water supply for a toilet;

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a kit for use with a standard vehicle air-conditioning unit for repurposing collected condensate for use as a water supply for a windscreen wiper reservoir; and

[0025] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a kit for use with a standard refrigerator for repurposing collected condensate for use as a water source for a faucet.

[0026] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONReferring now to the drawings reference numeral 10 refers generally to a kit for repurposing a liquid. The kit for repurposing a liquid 10 includes a collector 12 configured to collect condensate (not shown) generated by a portion of a refrigeration system 14 during operation of a refrigeration cycle, and a displacement mechanism 16 arranged in fluid communication with an outlet (not shown) of the collector 12 and configured to displace the collected condensate (not shown) to a desired destination 18

[0027] The refrigeration cycle typically involves the circulation of a refrigerant through various thermodynamic stages, including compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation. During operation of the refrigeration cycle, moisture from the surrounding air typically condenses on surfaces of the refrigeration system, such as on the evaporator coil, thereby producing condensate. Typically, the condensate is in the form of water, although depending on environmental and system conditions, the condensate may also include trace amounts of refrigerant, dissolved atmospheric gases, or airborne particulate matter. For example, in a humid environment, the condensate may contain a higher concentration of dissolved atmospheric particulates, whereas in a sterile or filtered environment, the condensate may be predominantly water with minimal contaminants. The condensate accumulates on one or more surfaces of the refrigeration system and subsequently drips or flows towards a condensate drain or other collection point.

[0028] Although not shown in the Figures, the refrigeration system includes any of the group including but not limited to a refrigerant, a compressor for compressing and displacing the refrigerant through the system, a condenser for condensing the refrigerant, an evaporator coil for evaporating the refrigerant into a gas, an expansion device for controlling the flow of the refrigerant, a temperature controlling device for controlling the temperature of the system, and a drier for removing moisture from the refrigerant. The refrigeration system is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, and dehumidifiers. It is to be appreciated that the refrigeration system may be of any conventional type that produces condensate during normal operation.Although not shown in the Figures, the collector 12 is typically in the form of a container, a tray, or a pan. The collector is manufactured from a material capable of withstanding exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and potential contaminants present in the condensate. The collector 12 includes an inlet configured to receive the condensate from the portion of the refrigeration system. The inlet is in the form of an opening defined in the collector 12. The opening is shaped and positioned to optimise the capture of condensate as it drips, flows, and / or drains from the refrigeration system. The collector can be removably mounted or fixedly secured to the refrigeration system depending on installation requirements.

[0029] For example, the collector can be constructed from stainless steel, plastics such as polyethylene (PE) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or composite materials such as fibreglass reinforced plastic (FRP), depending on the application environment. In a domestic refrigerator, the collector would be a shallow plastic pan positioned beneath the evaporator coil, whereas in a commercial air conditioner, the collector would be a deeper metal tray with corrosion-resistant coatings. The inlet may be circular, rectangular, or irregular in shape, and may be positioned directly beneath a condensate drip point or aligned with a drainage aperture formed in the refrigeration system.

[0030] In one form of the invention, the portion of the refrigeration system 14 is a drain for draining condensate (not shown) which may form on and drip off the evaporator coil (not shown) of the refrigeration system. The drain is arranged in fluid communication with the evaporator coil. The drain is positioned below or adjacent to the evaporator coil to capture condensate under the influence of gravity. In this form of the invention, the collector 12 collects the condensate (not shown) that forms on and drips off the evaporator coil (not shown) and drained from the refrigeration system via the drain. The drain is in the form of any one of the group including, but not limited to, a pipe, a tube, a tray, a pan, an aperture, and a channel. The drain is formed integrally with the refrigeration system. Alternatively, the drain can be a separate component coupled to the refrigeration system at a drainage point. For example, in a domestic refrigerator, the drain may be a small aperture leading to a plastic tube, whereas in an air-conditioning unit, the drain may be a sloped metal tray channellingcondensate into a drainage pipe. The drain may have a smooth internal surface to facilitate condensate flow and minimize the accumulation of debris or biological growth. The drain may optionally include a slope or gradient to encourage fluid flow by gravity, and may incorporate seals or fittings to reduce leakage at connection points with the collector.

[0031] In an alternative form of the invention, the portion of the refrigeration system 14 is the evaporator coil. In this form of the invention, the collector 12 is positioned to collect condensate that forms on and drips off the evaporator coil, typically withour the use of an intermediate drain. In this form of the invention, the collector 12 defines a drainage pathway or reservoir configured to directly capture the condensate as it forms. The drainage pathway is located beneath or integrally formed with the evaporator coil. The drainage pathway is shaped or contoured to guide the condensate toward the displacement mechanism. For example, the collector in the form of a drain may be a contoured tray or a moulded pan designed to fit beneath the evaporator coil, or a channel formed integrally within the housing of the refrigeration system. In some embodiments, the collector may replace a conventional evaporator drip tray and provide both collection and initial conveyance of the condensate. The collector may be configured to minimise splash or overflow during peak condensate production, and may include anti-bacterial or hydrophobic coatings to enhance hygiene and flow characteristics.

[0032] The displacement mechanism 16 is arranged in fluid communication with the collector 12 and the desired destination 18. The displacement mechanism 16 is in the form of a pump 20, typically an electric pump. The pump 20 is configured to displace the collected condensate along a fluid pathway to the desired destination 18. The pump 20 is selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a centrifugal pump, a diaphragm pump, a peristaltic pump, piezoelectric pump, thermopneumatic pump, electrohydrodynamic pump, electro-osmotic pump, micro pump, and a piston pump. The pump 20 is in the form of a micro pump, typically to enable compact installation in restricted spaces or portable refrigeration systems. For example, a centrifugal pump may be suitable for continuous-flow applications with relatively low back pressure, while a diaphragm pump may be advantageous for pulsatile flowcontrol or applications where preventing fluid backflow is critical. A peristaltic pump may be used in scenarios where the condensate must be isolated from the pump mechanism to avoid contamination, and a piezoelectric or electrohydrodynamic micro pump may be employed in compact or low-power environments, such as in automotive or portable refrigeration systems. The choice of pump may depend on factors including desired flow rate, head pressure, energy consumption, and available installation space.

[0033] Although not shown in the Figures, an energy source is provided for supplying energy to the displacement mechanism 16. The energy source is in the form of an electric energy source. The electric energy source is configured to provide electrical power to operate the pump. In one form, the electric energy source is in the form of an electrical energy supply that supplies power to the refrigeration system, thereby allowing the displacement mechanism to operate using the same power circuit as the refrigeration system., Alternatively, the electric energy source is in the form of an external electrical energy source. The external electrical energy source is independent from the energy source used to supply power to the refrigeration system. The external energy source is in the form of a battery. The battery is rechargeable. Further alternatively, the external energy source is in the form of a direct mains power connection or solar cell. For example, in a household refrigerator application, the displacement mechanism may be powered by tapping into the refrigerator’s existing electrical supply, thereby simplifying installation. In contrast, in a vehicle air-conditioning system, a dedicated battery or the vehicle's electrical system may provide the necessary power. In portable or off-grid applications, the energy source may be a rechargeable battery charged by a solar panel or external power adaptor.

[0034] A pipe assembly 22 is provided for allowing fluid communication between the collector 12, the displacement mechanism 16, and the desired destination 18. The pipe assembly 22 is in the form of a plurality of pipes (not shown), which are arranged to convey the condensate along a fluid pathway extending from the collector to the displacement mechanism, and from the displacement mechanism to the desired destination. Although not shown in the Figures, in use, a first pipe 22.2 of the pipeassembly 22 is connectable at one end region to the outlet of the collector 12, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the displacement mechanism 16, typically to allow condensate to flow from the collector to the displacement mechanism . A second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 is connectable at one end region to an outlet of the displacement mechanism 16, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the desired destination 18, typically to allow condensate to flow from the displacement mechanism to the desired destination. The pipes of the pipe assembly are manufactured from any suitable metallic, natural, synthetic, and / or composite material or a combination thereof. It is to be appreciated that the material of the pipes may be selected according to required characteristics such as corrosion resistance, flexibility, cost, and ease of installation. The metallic material is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to steel, copper, cast iron, and aluminium. The steel is selected from carbon steel, stainless steel, and galvanised steel. The synthetic material is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), rubber, nitrile rubber, and neoprene. The natural material is in the form of clay. The composite material is in the form of fibreglass reinforced plastic or reinforced concrete. For example, in domestic applications, flexible PVC or HDPE tubing may be preferred for ease of routing and connection, whereas in industrial refrigeration systems, rigid copper or stainless steel piping may be used for durability and compliance with safety standards. Composite materials such as fibreglass reinforced plastic may be advantageous in corrosive environments or outdoor installations.

[0035] A valve 24 is provided for controlling the fluid communication between the collector 12, the displacement mechanism 16, and / or the desired destination 18. The valve is arranged to selectively permit or restrict the flow of condensate along different portions of the pipe assembly 22. Although not shown in the Figures, in one form of the invention, a plurality of valves is provided for allowing a user to supply condensed fluid to a plurality of desired destinations , thereby enabling selective distribution of the condensate for different end uses. The valve 24 is connectable to the pipe assembly 22. The valve 24 is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to a check valve, a shutoff valve, a pressure relief valve, and a pressure reducingvalve. In particular, the valve can be selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a check valve configured to prevent backflow, a shutoff valve configured to stop flow when required, a pressure relief valve configured to release excess pressure from the system, and a pressure reducing valve configured to regulate the flow pressure of the condensate. For example, a check valve may be positioned downstream of the displacement mechanism to prevent condensate from flowing backward when the pump is inactive. A shutoff valve may be provided upstream of the displacement mechanism to allow maintenance without fluid leakage. In a system supplying condensate to multiple destinations, individual shutoff valves may be provided at branch points, allowing the user to isolate one or more destinations as needed. The valves may be manually operated or electrically actuated, depending on system complexity.

[0036] A filter 26 is provided for filtering the condensate. The filter 26 reduces debris, sediment, microorganisms, or any other undesired matter from passing through the collector 12, pipe assembly 22, displacement mechanism 16, and / or desired destination 18. The filter 26 is arranged at any one or more of the locations including but not limited to the inlet of the collector 12, the outlet of the collector 12, the inlet of the displacement mechanism 16, the outlet of the displacement mechanism 16, the inlet of the desired destination 18, and within the pipe assembly 22. The filter 26 is arranged at the inlet of the displacement mechanism 16 for reducing the number of smaller particles and / or microorganisms present in the condensate prior to entering the displacement mechanism 16. It is to be appreciated that such an arrangement generally reduces wear and clogging of the displacement mechanism 16. The filter 26 is selected from any of the group including a large particle filter, a small particle filter, and microorganism filter. The large particle filter is selected from of any one or more of the group including but not limited to mesh filters, sediment filters, and bag filters. The small particle filter is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to carbon filters, pleated filters, and ceramic filters. The microorganism filter is selected from any one or more of the group including reverse osmosis filters, ultraviolet (UV) filters, and ion exchange filters. For example, a mesh filter may be used to capture larger debris such as dust, rust flakes, or organic matter originating from the evaporator coil or drain. A carbon filter may reduce chemical impurities and odours, while a reverse osmosis filter may be employed where the condensate is to berepurposed for applications requiring potable-quality water. The choice of filter type, location, and filtration level may depend on the intended use of the condensate, the expected contaminants in the refrigeration system environment, and the maintenance regime preferred by the user. In some embodiments, multiple filters may be arranged in series to achieve multi-stage filtration.

[0037] An indicator 28 is provided for indicating the volume of condensate in the collector 12. The indicator 28 is configured to provide a user with a measurable or perceptible indication of the quantity of condensate accumulated within the collector, thereby allowing the user to monitor condensate levels and take appropriate action, such as activating the displacement mechanism or performing maintenance. The indicator 28 is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to a visual indicator, an electronic indicator, a mechanical indicator, and a pressurebased indicator. For example, the visual indicator may be in the form of a transparent or translucent sight glass integrated into the wall of the collector, allowing the user to visually assess the condensate level. The electronic indicator may include a liquid level sensor coupled to an LED display or wireless communication module that alerts the user when the condensate reaches a predetermined threshold. The mechanical indicator may be in the form of a float mechanism that rises and falls with the condensate level, optionally coupled to a dial or scale visible on the collector exterior. The pressure-based indicator may measure the hydrostatic pressure of the condensate in the collector and convert this into a volume reading.

[0038] The desired destination 18 is selected from any or more of the group including but not limited to a storage container, a faucet, a reservoir, an irrigation system, a water heater, a cooling system, a water feature, and a sewage system. The desired destination 18 can be further selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a cleaning system such as a pressure washer or floor scrubber, a humidifier or misting system configured to reintroduce moisture into an environment, a greywater recycling system for domestic or commercial use, a chemical dilution system configured to mix condensate with concentrated cleaning agents, fertilizers, or other additives, an evaporative cooling tower, a heat exchanger system for thermalmanagement, a firefighting system such as an emergency sprinkler reservoir, an industrial process system requiring low-grade process water, a flushing system for urinals, toilets, or laboratory sinks, a vehicle cleaning station or automated car wash system, and a laboratory apparatus requiring non-potable process water, such as a condenser bath or rinsing station. The desired destination may be configured to store, distribute, utilize, or dispose of the condensate, depending on the intended use case. For example, the condensate may be directed to a cooling tower to supplement evaporative losses, supplied to an irrigation system for landscape watering, or delivered to a greywater system to reduce potable water consumption. In other embodiments, the condensate may be mixed with cleaning solutions in a chemical dilution station, reintroduced to the environment via a humidifier, or stored in a reservoir for emergency firefighting use. The selection of the desired destination may be determined based on the volume of condensate available, the water quality required, and the operational demands of the end system.

[0039] It is to be appreciated that the kit for repurposing a liquid 10 is sized, shaped, and / or configured based on the size, shape, and / or configuration of the refrigeration system and / or destination 18. The kit 10 can be adapted to accommodate physical installation constraints, fluid volume requirements, flow rate demands, or environmental conditions associated with the refrigeration system and the intended end use. Components of the kit, such as the collector, the displacement mechanism, the pipe assembly, and the valves, may each be dimensioned and configured individually or collectively to suit the particular application. For example, a kit for use with a car air-conditioning unit, wherein the desired destination is a windscreen wiper reservoir, may have a generally compact size, a shape configured to fit within the engine compartment, and a fluid capacity suitable for intermittent wiper usage. In contrast, a kit for use with a household air-conditioning unit, wherein the desired destination is a water supply inlet for a toilet, may have a larger collector, a displacement mechanism capable of higher flow rates, and a pipe assembly adapted for integration with domestic plumbing. Similarly, an industrial refrigeration system repurposing condensate for use in a cooling tower may require a robust collector and a high-capacity displacement mechanism to handle larger condensate volumes.Referring now to Figure 2 which shows a first embodiment of the invention, the refrigeration system is a standard refrigerator and the desired destination 18 is a water supply inlet for a toilet 38. Condensate which forms on a portion of the refrigeration system 14, typically the evaporator coil (not shown), generally drips off the evaporator coil (not shown) into a drain (not shown). A user (not shown) first connects an end region of a first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the collector 12 in the form of a drain and an opposing end region of the first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a large particle filter 30. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the large particle filter 30 and an opposing end region of the second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to a displacement mechanism 16, typically in the form of a centrifugal pump 32. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a third pipe 22.6 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the displacement mechanism 16 and an opposing end region of the third pipe 22.6 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a small particle filter 36. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a fourth pipe 22.8 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the small particle filter 36 and an opposing end region of the fourth pipe 22.8 of the pipe assembly 22 to the water supply inlet for a toilet 38.

[0040] Referring now to Figure 3 which shows a second embodiment of the invention, the refrigeration system is a standard vehicle air-conditioning unit and the desired destination 18 is a windscreen wiper reservoir 42. Condensate which forms on a portion of the refrigeration system 14, typically the evaporator coil (not shown), generally drips off the evaporator coil (not shown) into a drain (not shown). A user (not shown) first connects an end region of a first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the collector 12 in the form of a drain and an opposing end region of the first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a large particle filter 30. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the large particle filter 30 and an opposing end region of the second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to a displacement mechanism 16, typically in the form of a diaphragm pump 40. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a third pipe 22.6 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of the windscreen wiper reservoir 42.Referring now to Figure 4 which shows a third embodiment of the invention, the refrigeration system is a standard refrigerator and the desired destination 18 is a faucet 44. Condensate which forms on a portion of the refrigeration system 14, typically the evaporator coil (not shown), generally drips off the evaporator coil (not shown) into a drain (not shown). A user (not shown) first connects an end region of a first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the collector 12 in the form of a drain and an opposing end region of the first pipe 22.2 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a large particle filter 30. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the large particle filter 30 and an opposing end region of the second pipe 22.4 of the pipe assembly 22 to a displacement mechanism 16, typically in the form of a centrifugal pump 32. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a third pipe 22.6 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the displacement mechanism 16 and an opposing end region of the third pipe 22.6 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a small particle filter 36. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a fourth pipe 22.8 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the small particle filter 36 and an opposing end region of the fourth pipe 22.8 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a filter 26 in the form of a microorganism filter 46. The user (not shown) then connects an end region of a fifth pipe 22.10 of the pipe assembly 22 to an outlet of the microorganism filter 46 and an opposing end region of the fifth pipe 22.10 of the pipe assembly 22 to an inlet of a faucet 44.

[0041] It is, of course, to be appreciated that the kit for repurposing a liquid in accordance with the invention is not limited to the precise constructional and functional details as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings and which may be varied as desired.

[0042] Although only certain embodiments of the invention have been described herein, it will be understood by any person skilled in the art that other modifications, variations, and possibilities of the invention are possible. Such modifications, variations and possibilities are therefore to be considered as falling within the spirit and scope of the invention and hence form part of the invention as herein describedand / or exemplified. It is further to be understood that the examples are provided for illustrating the invention further and to assist a person skilled in the art with understanding the invention and is not meant to be construed as unduly limiting the reasonable scope of the invention.

[0043] The inventor believes that the kit for repurposing a liquid in accordance with the present invention is advantageous in that it addresses the technical problem of condensate waste produced during operation of refrigeration systems, wherein condensate is typically discarded without further use. The invention provides a modular and adaptable solution for collecting, displacing, and redirecting such condensate, thereby enabling the condensate to be repurposed for a secondary use without requiring structural modification of the refrigeration system itself. The inventor believes that this kit is further advantageous in that it enables a user to repurpose condensate to any destination, thereby enhancing the operational efficiency of the refrigeration system environment and reducing reliance on external water sources. The inclusion of filtration and flow control components within the kit addresses the technical challenges associated with conveying condensate containing particulate matter, microorganisms, or chemical contaminants, thereby protecting the displacement mechanism and improving the quality of the condensate supplied to the desired destination. The inventor further believes that the invention is advantageous in that it enables the kit to be sized, shaped, and / or configured based on the refrigeration system and desired destination, allowing for widespread applicability across domestic, commercial, automotive, and industrial environments. Accordingly, the invention contributes to sustainable water management practices by reducing water waste and optimizing the reuse of condensate that would otherwise be discarded.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A kit for repurposing a liquid including: - a collector configured to collect condensate generated by a portion of a refrigeration system during operation of a refrigeration cycle; anda displacement mechanism arranged in fluid communication with an outlet of the collector and configured to displace the collected condensate to a desired destination.

2. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 1 wherein the collector is in the form of any of the group including a container, a tray, and a pan.

3. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the collector is manufactured from a material capable of withstanding exposure to moisture, temperature fluctuations, and potential contaminants present in the condensate.

4. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the collector includes an inlet configured to receive the condensate from the portion of the refrigeration system.

5. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 4 wherein the inlet is in the form of an opening defined in the collector.

6. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 5 wherein the opening is shaped and positioned to optimise the capture of condensate as it drips, flows, or drains from the refrigeration system.

7. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the collector is removably mounted to the refrigeration system.

8. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the portion of the refrigeration system is a drain configured to receive condensate which may form on and drip off an evaporator coil of the refrigeration system.

9. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the claims to 8 wherein the portion of the refrigeration system is the evaporator coil.

10. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 9 wherein the collector is positioned to collect condensate that may form on and drip off the evaporator coil.

11. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 9 or 10 wherein the collector defines a drainage pathway or reservoir configured to directly capture the condensate as it forms.

12. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 11 wherein the drainage pathway is located beneath or integrally formed with the evaporator coil.

13. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 11 or 12 wherein the drainage pathway is shaped or contoured to guide the condensate toward the displacement mechanism.

14. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the displacement mechanism is arranged in fluid communication with the collector and the desired destination.

15. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the displacement mechanism is in the form of a pump.

16. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 15 wherein the pump is selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a centrifugalpump, a diaphragm pump, a peristaltic pump, piezoelectric pump, thermo-pneumatic pump, electrohydrodynamic pump, electro-osmotic pump, micro pump, and a piston pump.

17. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 15 wherein the pump is in the form of a micro pump.

18. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 17 wherein the micro pump is in the form of a diffuser or nozzle micro pump.

19. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein an energy source is provided for supplying energy to the displacement mechanism.

20. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 19 wherein the energy source is in the form of an electric energy source.

21. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 20 wherein the electric energy source is in the form of an electrical energy supply that supplies power to the refrigeration system.

22. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 20 wherein the electric energy source is in the form of an external electrical energy source.

23. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 22 wherein the external energy source is in the form of a battery.

24. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a pipe assembly is provided for allowing fluid communication between the collector, the displacement mechanism, and the desired destination.

25. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 24 wherein a first pipe of the pipe assembly is connectable at one end region to the outlet of the collector, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the displacement mechanism.

26. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 23 or 24 wherein a second pipe of the pipe assembly is connectable at one end region to an outlet of the displacement mechanism, and connectable at an opposing end region to an inlet of the desired destination.

27. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 25 or 26 wherein the pipes of the pipe assembly are manufactured from any suitable metallic, natural, synthetic, and / or composite material or a combination thereof.

28. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 27 wherein the metallic material is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to steel, copper, cast iron, and aluminium.

29. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 27 wherein the synthetic material is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), rubber, nitrile rubber, and neoprene.

30. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 27 wherein the composite material is in the form of fibreglass reinforced plastic or reinforced concrete.

31. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a valve is provided for controlling the fluid communication between the collector, the displacement mechanism, and the desired destination.

32. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a plurality of valves is provided for allowing a user to supply condensed fluid to a plurality of desired destinations.

33. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claims 31 or 32 wherein the valve is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to a check valve, a shutoff valve, a pressure relief valve, and a pressure reducing valve.

34. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein a filter is provided for filtering the condensate.

35. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 34 wherein the filter is arranged at any one or more of the locations including but not limited to the inlet of the collector, the outlet of the collector, the inlet of the displacement mechanism, the outlet of the displacement mechanism, the inlet of the desired destination, and within the pipe assembly.

36. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 34 wherein the filter is arranged at the inlet of the displacement mechanism for reducing the number of smaller particles or microorganisms present in the condensate prior to entering the displacement mechanism.

37. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the claims 34 to 36 wherein the filter is selected from any of the group including a large particle filter, a small particle filer, and microorganism filter.

38. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 37 wherein the large particle filter is selected from of any one or more of the group including but not limited to mesh filters, sediment filters, and bag filters.

39. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 37 wherein the small particle filter is selected from any one or more of the group including but not limited to carbon filters, pleated filters, and ceramic filters.

40. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in claim 37 wherein the microorganism filter is selected from any one or more of the group including reverse osmosis filters, ultra-violet (UV) filters, and ion exchange filters.

41. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein an indicator is provided for indicating the volume of condensate in the collector.

42. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the desired destination is selected from any or more of the group including but not limited to a storage container, a faucet, a reservoir, an irrigation system, a water heater, a cooling system, a water feature, and a sewage system.

43. A kit for repurposing a liquid as claimed in any one or more of the preceding claims wherein the desired destination is further selected from any one or more of the group including, but not limited to, a cleaning system such as a pressure washer or floor scrubber, a humidifier or misting system configured to reintroduce moisture into an environment, a greywater recycling system for domestic or commercial use, a chemical dilution system configured to mix condensate with concentrated cleaning agents, fertilizers, or other additives, an evaporative cooling tower, a heat exchanger system for thermal management, a firefighting system such as an emergency sprinkler reservoir, an industrial process system requiring low-grade process water, a flushing system for urinals, toilets, or laboratory sinks, a vehicle cleaning station or automated car wash system, and a laboratory apparatus requiring non-potable process water, such as a condenser bath or rinsing station.

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