DESC:FORM 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003

COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See Section 10 and Rule 13)

Title of invention:
A WATER DISPENSING DEVICE

Applicant:
Realment Labs Private Limited
A Company Incorporated in India under the Companies Act, 1956
Having address:
1016, Prestige Kensington Gardens,
No. 17, HMT Factory Main Road, Jalahalli,
Bangalore – 560013, Karnataka, India

The following specification describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY
[001] The present application claims priority from Indian Provisional Specification no. 201841005584 filed on 14th February 2018, the complete disclosure of which in its entirety is herein incorporated by references.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[002] The present disclosure in general relates to the field of water dispensing. More particularly, the present subject matter relates to a water dispensing device.
BACKGROUND
[003] Generally, any drinking water dispensing machines used now a day requires user’s interaction, by the way of turning a knob or pressing/pulling a lever or pressing a button for operation. Further, if any of the users are carriers of any infection, then their interaction with the drinking water dispensing machines may result in surface to surface transmission of infection to other users especially in places such as offices, hospitals, schools, households, factories, shopping malls and others.
[004] Conventional system and method for touchless water dispensing make use of bulky and more complicated mechanisms for controlling the water flow electronically. Further, in some cases the conventional system and method also require high inlet water pressure for dispensing, which fail when implemented in regions with low inlet pressure. Furthermore, conventional system and method have the flow of water located close to electrical and metallic components, resulting in rusting in case of even minor leakage. Existing system uses intricate components such as diaphragms and springs within the solenoid valve that are more susceptible to harbour germs from water at low pressure. These limitations make existing touchless systems incompatible with the most widely used drinking water dispensers. Hence, to overcome all the above-mentioned difficulties, there exists a need for an efficient and economical touchless drinking water dispensing apparatus that can be used with all the new and existing drinking water dispensing machines with easy integration.
SUMMARY
[005] Before the present water dispensing device, is described, it is to be understood that this application is not limited to the particular apparatus, and device described, as there can be multiple possible embodiments, which are not expressly illustrated in the present disclosures. It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular implementations, versions, or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present application. This summary is provided to introduce aspects related to the water dispensing device. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in determining or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
[006] In one embodiment, an apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap is disclosed. In the embodiment, the apparatus may comprise a water dispensing tap. The water dispensing tap may consist of a tap rod, a nozzle, and a tap lever. Further, the apparatus may comprise a motor. In one aspect, the motor may be configured to rotate in a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction based on receiving an actuation signal. The motor may be coupled to the tap lever of the water dispensing tap with a mechanical linkage. Furthermore, the apparatus may comprise a controller. The controller may be coupled to the motor and one or more sensors. In one aspect, the one or more sensors may be configured to transmit one or more signal based on detection of an object or detection of a hand. In the aspect, the controller may be configured to generate the actuation signal. The apparatus may further comprise an enclosure. The enclosure may be configured to enclose the water dispensing tap, the motor, the one or more sensors, and the controller.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[007] The foregoing detailed description of embodiments is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating of the present subject matter, an example of construction of the present subject matter is provided as figures; however, the present subject matter is not limited to the specific method and system disclosed in the document and the figures.
[008] The present subject matter is described detail with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer various features of the present subject matter.
[009] Figure 1 illustrates an embodiment of a network implementation of an apparatus to control flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0010] Figure 2(A), 2(B), 2(C), 2(D), 2(E) and 2 (F) illustrates an apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0011] Figure 3(A), 3(B), 3(C), 3(D), 3(E) and 3(F) illustrates the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0012] Figure 4(A), 4(B), 4(C), and 4(D) illustrates the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0013] Figure 5(A), 5(B), 5(C), and 5(D) illustrates the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0014] Figure 6 illustrates the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0015] Figure 7 illustrates an exploded view of the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0016] Figure 8(A), and 8(B) illustrates the apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap, in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] Some embodiments of this disclosure, illustrating all its features, will now be discussed in detail. Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present subject matter. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may all, but not necessarily do, refer to the same embodiment. The words "comprising," "having," "containing," and "including," and other forms thereof, are intended to be open ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items, or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items. It must also be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Similarly, one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.
[0018] Various modifications to the embodiment will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art and the generic principles herein may be applied to other embodiments for a water dispensing device. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present disclosure for the water dispensing device is not intended to be limited to the embodiments described, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features described herein.
[0019] The present subject matter relates to an apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap. In one embodiment, the apparatus may comprise the water dispensing tap. The water dispensing tap may consist of a tap lever, a nozzle, and a tap rod. The apparatus may further comprise a motor. The motor may be coupled to the water dispensing tap with a mechanical linkage. In one example, the mechanical linkage may be one of a chain linkage, a bar linkage, a gear linkage, a cam lever linkage and the like. In one aspect, the mechanical linkage may be the cam lever linkage. In the embodiment, the cam lever linkage may consist of a cam and a cam holding device. The cam may be connected to the motor, and the cam holding device may be coupled to the cam and the tap lever. In one example, during operation, the motor may be configured to rotate in one of a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction, based on receiving an actuation signal. Further, the apparatus may comprise a controller. The controller may be connectively coupled to one or more sensors and the motor. In one embodiment, during operation, the controller may be configured to receive one or more signal from the one or more sensors. The controller may be configured to generate the actuation signal. The apparatus may further comprise an enclosure. The enclosure may be configured to enclose the water dispensing tap, the motor, the one or more sensors and the controller. In one example, the enclosure may consist of a first enclosure and a second enclosure.
[0020] Now, for the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present subject matter, 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 invention is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system and method, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present invention. Further, figure 1 illustrates a network implementation of an apparatus for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap.
[0021] Referring to Figure 1, an embodiment of a network implementation of an apparatus 100 for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap 114, for example, a manual tap is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus 100 may comprise one or more sensors 108, a system 102, a motor 112, and the water dispensing tap 114.
[0022] In one embodiment, it will be understood that multiple users may access the system 102 through one or more user device or applications residing on the user device 104-1… 104-N, hereinafter individually or collectively referred to as a user device 104. In one example, the system 102 may provide the user device 104, data associated with the total amount of water utilized, each day, any other data associated with the water being dispensed, and data associated with the health of the system or the water. Examples of the user device 104 may include, but are not limited to, a portable computer, a personal digital assistant, a handheld system, and a workstation. Further, the user device 104 may access the system 102 through a network 106.
[0023] In one implementation, the network 106 may be a wireless network, a wired network or a combination thereof. The network 106 may be implemented as one of the different types of networks, such as intranet, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), the internet, and the like. The network 106 may be either a dedicated network or a shared network. The shared network represents an association of the different types of networks that use a variety of protocols, for example, Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), and the like, to communicate with one another. Further, the network 106 may include a variety of network systems, including routers, bridges, servers, computing systems, storage systems, and the like.
[0024] In one aspect, the system 102 may be electronically coupled to the one or more sensors 108, and to the motor 112. Further, the motor 112 may be coupled to the water dispensing tap 114 with a mechanical linkage. The apparatus 100 may also comprise a power source or the like. Further, the apparatus may comprise an enclosure (not shown in figure 1). The enclosure may be configured to enclose the water dispensing tap 114, the motor 112, the one or more sensors 108, and the system 102 together.
[0025] In one embodiment, during operation, the one or more sensors 108 may be configured to transmit one or more signals upon detecting an object. In one example, during operation, the one or more sensors 108 may continuously emit a pulse, which may be reflected back from the object near the one or more sensors 108 and the one or more sensors 108 may detect the reflected pulse. In the embodiment, the system 102 may receive the one or more signals and compute a distance between the object and the one or more sensors based on the one or more signals. In one example, the one or more signal may comprise data associated with a time take by the pulse from emitting to receiving back by reflection. Further, the system 102 may generate a digital map of the object, compute geometric parameters of the object and identify the type of object based on the one or more signals. Upon computing, the system 102 may generate an actuation signal based on a current state, and a comparison of the distance and a predefined threshold distance and transmit the actuation signal. In one example, the system 102 may also generate the actuation signal based on the object type for example, human or non-human. Furthermore, during operation upon transmitting, the motor 112 may be configured to receive the actuation signal and rotate in one of a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction based on the actuation signal. Finally, during operation, the water dispensing tap 114 may be configured to one of start dispensing water, or stop dispensing water, based on the rotation of motor 112, thereby controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 114.
[0026] In one embodiment, the system 102 may receive data from a sensor attached to a water container (not shown in figure 1) connected to the water dispensing tap 114. The data may comprise a current water level associated with the water container. Further, the system 102 may compare the current water level and a pre-defined threshold water level. Furthermore, the system 102 may transmit a notification to a user or a vendor, if the current water level is equal to or less than the pre-defined threshold water level. In one example, the notification may inform the user or the vendor to refill the water container. In one example, the system 102 may use a GSM module to transmit the notification.
[0027] Referring now to figure 2(A), figure 2(B), figure 2(C), figure 2(D), figure 2(E), and figure 2(F), an apparatus 202 for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap 210 is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0028] Referring now to figure 2(A), an enclosed apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the enclosed apparatus 202 may comprise a water dispensing tap 210, a motor 214, one or more sensors 218, a controller 608 (not shown in figure) and an enclosure 204, 206. In the embodiment, the controller 608 may be communicatively coupled to the motor 214 and the one or more sensors 218. Further, the motor 214 may be coupled to the water dispensing tap 210. Furthermore, the enclosure 204, 206 may be configured to enclose the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, and the controller 608.
[0029] Referring now to figure 2(B), an exploded view of the apparatus 202 controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the exploded view shows the water dispensing tap 210, a first enclosure 204, a second enclosure 206, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, and a roller pin 212.
[0030] In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may consist of a tap rod 205, a nozzle 211. In one example, the tap rod 205 may be a metal rod, a plastic rod and the like, and the nozzle 211 may be made of metal, plastic and the like. Further, the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214 using the roller pin 212. In one embodiment, one end of the roller pin 212 may be connected to the motor 214, and other end of the roller pin 212 may be connected to a spindle of the water dispensing tap 210. In one example, the roller pin may be connected to the spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 using a screw 208. In one example, the motor 214 may be a servo motor. In another example, the motor 214 may be a stepper motor. In one aspect, during operation, the motor 214 may rotate in one of a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction, based on receiving an actuation signal. In the aspect, the roller pin 212 may rotate based on rotation of the motor 214. Based on the rotation of the roller pin 212, the spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 may move in upward direction or in downward direction. Based on the movement of the spindle, flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may be controlled.
[0031] Further, the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608. The controller 608 may be electronically connected to the one or more sensors 218. In one example, the controller 608 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, processors, digital signal processors, central processing units, state machines, logic circuitries, and/or any systems that manipulate signals based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, at least one controller may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory. In one example, during operation, the one or more sensors 218 may continuously emit a pulse, which may be reflected back from an object in the vicinity of the one or more sensors 218. Further, the one or more sensors 218 may detect the reflected pulse. Further, the one or more sensors 218 may be configured to transmit one or more signal to the controller 608. In one example, the one or more sensors 218 may be one of acoustic/ultrasonic sensors, Infrared (IR) sensors, gesture sensing, computer vision, motion sensors, optical sensors or any other distance measuring sensing means.
[0032] Once the one or more signal is received, during operation, the controller 608 may generate a digital map based on the one or more signal. In one example, the digital map may be understood as a 2 dimensional or a 3 dimensional rendering of the object. Upon generating the digital map, the controller 608 may compute one or more geometric parameters associated with the object based on the digital map. In one example, the one or more geometric parameters may be length, breadth, height, depth and the like. Subsequently, the controller 608 may identify a type of the object based on one of the one or more geometric parameters, the digital map, and temperature of the object. In one example, the type of the object may be one of a human object or a non-human object and the temperature of the object may be received from a temperature sensor.
[0033] Further, the controller 608 may compare the distance with a pre-defined threshold distance. Further, the controller 608 may generate an actuation signal based on a current state, and the comparison of the distance and a predefined threshold distance. The current state may comprise one of an ON state or an OFF state. In one example, the actuation signal may comprise one of an instruction to start dispensing water, or to stop dispensing water. In another example, the actuation signal may comprise the instruction to start dispensing water when the current state is the OFF state, the distance is less than predefined threshold distance. In the example, the actuation signal may comprise an instruction to stop dispensing water, when the current state is the ON state and the distance is less than predefined threshold distance. Upon generation of the actuation signal, during operation, the controller may transmit the actuation signal to a motor 214. Further, the motor 214 may rotate in one of a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction based on the actuation signal. Based on the rotation of the motor 214, the roller pin 212 may move in upward direction or in downward direction, thereby controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210.
[0034] Further, the enclosure of the apparatus 202 may enclose the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, and the controller 608. In one embodiment, the enclosure may consist of a first enclosure 204 and a second enclosure 206. Further, the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may be joined to form the enclosure.
[0035] Referring now to figure 2(C), a first enclosure 204, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. Referring to figure 2(D), a second enclosure 206, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0036] In one embodiment, the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may comprise one or more cut-out walls 220. The one or more cut-out walls 220 may be on a side wall of the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206. In one aspect, the one or more cut-out walls may be configured to support the water dispensing tap 210. In the aspect, the tap rod 205 may be sealed at the one or more cut-out walls. In one example, the sealing of the tap rod 205 may reduce water leakage from the tap rod 205.
[0037] Further, one of the enclosure from the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may comprise one or more reinforcement walls 228. The one or more reinforcement walls 228 may be configured to support the tap rod 205 extended into the enclosure. In one aspect, the one or more reinforcement walls 228 may divide the enclosure. In the aspect, the one or more reinforcement walls 228 may form a water protective section. In one example, one or more reinforcement walls 228 may be configured to protect other components in the enclosure from water.
[0038] Further, the second enclosure 206 may comprise a motor holder 222. The motor holder 222 may be in an upper section of the second enclosure 206. In one example, the motor holder 222 may be vertical or horizontal. In one example, the motor 214 may be fitted to the motor holder 222 using a set of nails. In the aspect, the set of nails may be fixed to set of threaded hole, present on the second enclosure 206. Based on fixing the set of nails into the set of threaded holes, the motor 214 may be fitted into the motor holder. In one embodiment, size of the motor holder may be such that the motor 214 is able to rotate in the clockwise direction or in the anticlockwise direction.
[0039] Furthermore, the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may comprise one or more through holes 224. In one aspect, the one or more through holes 224 may be designed to support the one or more sensors 218. In one example, the one or more through holes 224 may be in upper section of the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206. In another example, the one or more through hole 224 may be in lower section of the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206. In one example, the one or more through holes 224 may be parallel to ground floor. In another example, the one or more through holes 224 may be at a particular angle to the ground floor. In one embodiment, the one or more sensors 218 may be mounted at a pre-defined distance from the water dispensing tap 210 to reduce damage to the one or more sensors 218.
[0040] Furthermore, one of the enclosure, from the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206, may comprise a controller holder 602. In one aspect, the controller holder 602 may be used to fix the controller 608. In one example, the controller holder 602 may be at a pre-defined distance from the water dispensing tap 210 to avoid damage to the controller 608. In one aspect, the one or more reinforcement walls 228 may protect the controller 608 from damage. In one example, if water drop falls on the controller 608, an event such as short circuit may occur. In the example, the controller 608 may get damaged, and result into damaging operation of the apparatus 202.
[0041] Further, the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may be connected to form the enclosed apparatus. In one example, the first enclosure 204 and the second enclosure 206 may be connected using nut-bolts arrangement.
[0042] Referring now to figure 2(E), a side view of an assembled apparatus controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the tap rod 205 of the water dispensing tap 210 may be sealed at the one or more cut-out walls of the second enclosure 206. Further, a spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214 through the roller pin 212. In one aspect, one end of the roller pin 212 may be connected on the motor 214 and other end of the roller pin 212 may be connected to the spindle of the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the one or more sensors 218 may be fixed through the one or more through holes of the second enclosure 206. Furthermore, the one or more sensors 218 and the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608.
[0043] Referring now to figure 2(F), a view of an assembled apparatus for controlling flow of water from water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter.
[0044] In one embodiment, figure 3(A), 3(B), 3(C), 3(D), 3(E), 3(F), figure 4(A), 4(B), 4(C), 4(D), figure 5(A), 5(B), 5(C), 5(D), figure 6, and figure 7, illustrates different embodiments of an apparatus controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap 210.
[0045] Referring to figure 3 (A), an enclosed apparatus 302 for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus 302 may comprise the water dispensing tap 210, one or more sensors 218, a motor 214, a controller 608, a first enclosure 304 and a second enclosure 306. The first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306 may enclose the water dispensing tap 210, the one or more sensors 304, the motor 214 and the controller 608, to form the apparatus 302.
[0046] Referring now to figure 3(B), an exploded view of an apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may consist of a tap rod 205, and a nozzle 211. Further, the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214 using a roller pin 212. In one aspect, one end of the roller pin 212 may be connected to a spindle of the water dispensing tap 210, and other end of the roller pin 212 may be connected to the motor 214. In one example, the motor 214 may be a servo motor. Furthermore, the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608. Furthermore, the controller 608 may be coupled to the one or more sensors 218. In one embodiment, the one or more sensors 218 may be mounted in upper section of the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306.
[0047] Referring now to figure 3(C) and 3(D), the second enclosure 306 and the first enclosure 304, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306 may comprise one or more cut-out walls 220 on a side wall of the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306. The one or more cut-out walls 220 may support the tap rod 205 of the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306 may comprise one or more reinforcement walls 228. The one or more reinforcement walls may support the tap rod 205 extended into the enclosure. Further, the second enclosure 306 may comprise a motor holder 222. The motor holder 222 may be in the upper section of the second enclosure 306. The motor holder 222 may be used to fix the motor 214. Furthermore, the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306 may comprise one or more through holes 224 to fix the one or more sensors 218. In this case, the one or more through holes 224 may be on upper side of the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306. Thus, the one or more sensors 218 may be mounted on upper side of the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306. In one aspect, mounting the one or more sensors 218, on the upper side of the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306, may save the one or more sensors 218 from damage, as water drops may not fall on the one or more sensors 218. Further, the first enclosure 304 and the second enclosure 306 may comprise a controller holder 602 to hold the controller 608. The controller 608 may be communicatively connected to the motor 214 and the one or more sensors 218.
[0048] Referring now to the figure 3(E) and figure 3(F), a side view of an apparatus controlling flow of water from water dispensing tap, is illustrated in accordance with the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214 using a roller pin 212. Further, the motor 214 may be connected to the controller 608. Furthermore, the controller 608 may be connected to the one or more sensors 218. Furthermore, the controller 608, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, the water dispensing tap 210 may be fixed in the second enclosure 306.
[0049] Referring now to figure 4(A), an enclosed apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, a first enclosure 408 and a second enclosure 406 may enclose the water dispensing tap 210, a motor 214, one or more sensors 218, and a controller 608. Further, the first enclosure 408 and the second enclosure 406 may be joined to form an enclosure. The enclosure may be further closed using a third enclosure 404.
[0050] Referring now to figure 4(B) and figure 4(C), the second enclosure 406 and the third enclosure 404, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the first enclosure 408 and the second enclosure 406 may comprise one or more cut-out walls. The one or more cut-out walls may be configured to support a tap rod 205 of the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the second enclosure 406 may comprise one or more reinforcement walls 228. The one or more reinforcement walls 228 may be configured to support the tap rod 205 extended into the enclosure. The one or more reinforcement walls 228 may also support a nozzle 211 of the water dispensing tap 210. The second enclosure 406 may further comprise a motor holder 222 to fix the motor 214. In one aspect, the motor holder 222 may be horizontal in upper section of the second enclosure 406. Furthermore, the first enclosure 408 and the second enclosure 406 may comprise one or more through holes 224 to fix the one or more sensors 218. In one embodiment, the one or more through holes 224 may be such that the one or more sensors 218 may make particular angle to ground floor. Furthermore, one of the first enclosure 408 and the second enclosure 406 may comprise a controller holder 602. The controller holder 602 may be configured to hold the controller 608. Further, the first enclosure 404 may be attached to the second enclosure 406 and form an enclosed apparatus. Furthermore, the third enclosure 404 may be used to form the enclosed apparatus.
[0051] Referring now to figure 4(D), a side view of an apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may be connected to the motor 214 using a roller pin 212. Further, the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608. Furthermore, the controller 608 may be electronically coupled to the one or more sensors 218. Furthermore, the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, and the controller may be enclosed in the second enclosure 406.
[0052] Referring now to figure 5(A), an enclosed apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210, a motor 214, one or more sensors 218, and a controller may be enclosed by a first enclosure 504 and a second enclosure 506. The first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506 may be joined to from the enclosed apparatus. Furthermore, a third enclosure 508 may be used to close the enclosed apparatus.
[0053] Referring now to figure 5(B) and 5(C), the second enclosure 506 and the third enclosure 508, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the second enclosure 506 and the first enclosure 504 may be identical. The first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506 may comprise one or more cut-out walls 220. In one example, the one or more cut-out walls 220 may be on side walls of the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506. The one or more cut-out walls 220 may be support a tap rod 205 of the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506 may comprise one or more reinforcement walls 228. In one aspect, the one or more reinforcement walls 228 may support the tap rod 205 extended into the enclosure. In the aspect, the one or more reinforcement walls 228 may also support a nozzle 211 of the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506 may comprise a motor holder 222. In one aspect, during assembly, the motor holder 222 may support the motor 214. Furthermore, the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506 may comprise one or more through holes 224. The one or more through hole 224 may be used to fix the one or more sensors 218. In one aspect, the one or more sensors 218 may be mounted on upper side of the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506. Furthermore, the second enclosure 506 may comprise a controller holder 602. The controller holder 602 may be configured to hold the controller 608. The second enclosure 506 may be further attached to the first enclosure 504 and form an enclosed apparatus. The third enclosure 508 may be attached to the first enclosure 504 and the second enclosure 506.
[0054] Referring now to figure 5(D), a side view of an apparatus controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214. Further, the motor 214 may be connected to the controller 608. The controller 608 may be further connected to the one or more sensors 218. Further, the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, the one or more sensors 218, the controller may be fixed in the second enclosure 506.
[0055] Referring now to figure 6, an apparatus 600 for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus 600 may comprise the water dispensing tap 210, a motor 214, a controller 602, and one or more sensors 218. In one aspect, the water dispensing tap 210 may consist of a tap lever 604, a tap rod 205, and a nozzle 211. Further, the tap lever 604 may be coupled to the motor 214 using a mechanical linkage. In one example, the mechanical linkage may be one of a chain linkage, a bar linkage, a gear linkage, a cam lever linkage, and the like. In one aspect, the mechanical linkage may be the cam lever linkage. The cam lever linkage may consist of a cam 610 and a cam holding device 612. The cam 610 may be connected to the motor 214 and the cam holding device 612 may be coupled to the cam and the tap lever 604 of the water dispensing tap 210.
[0056] Further, the motor 214 may be communicatively connected to a controller 608. Further, the controller 608 may be communicatively connected to one or more sensors 218. Further, the controller 608, the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, and the one or more sensors 218 may be enclosed in an enclosure 206.
[0057] In one embodiment, during operation, the controller 608 may receive one or more signal from the one or more sensors 218. In one example, the one or more signal may be received, when the one or more sensors 218 detects an object. In one example, the object may be one of a human object or a non-human object. Further, the controller 608 may compute a distance between the object and the one or more sensors 218 based on the one or more signal. Furthermore, the controller 608 may compare the distance with a pre-defined threshold distance. Further, the controller 608 may generate an actuation signal based on a current state, and the comparison of the distance and a predefined threshold distance. Upon generation of the actuation signal, the controller 608 may transmit the actuation signal to the motor 214. In one example, the motor 214 may be a stepper motor. Based on the actuation signal, the motor 214 may rotate in one of a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction. Based on the rotation of the motor 214, the cam 610, connected to the motor 214, may also rotate. Further, the cam holding device 612 may be configured to move the tap lever 604 in upward direction or in downward direction. Based on the movement of the tap lever 604, flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may be controlled.
[0058] In one embodiment, the motor may be a servo motor with a pre-defined torque output. In this case, the water dispensing tap 210 may automatically shut-off without using any additional electrical power backup, when power goes off while the water dispensing tap 210 is open. In one aspect, the servo motor may be used to control the water dispensing tap 210, as the water dispensing tap 210 has a minimum spring constant that needs to be matched with the servo motor. Thus, when the power goes off, the spring constant should be of the right value to exert the correct force on gears of the servo motor to pull them to the closed position, without the electrical/electronic actuation from the controller. Further, an arm of the servo motor may be actuated within a predefined angle with range between 0 to 30 degrees. It is to be noted that the servo motor is actuated more than the predefined angle, then the spindle of the water dispensing tap may get damaged.
[0059] In one aspect, a pressure of flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may be controlled based on the distance. If a user moves hand closer to the one or more sensors, then the pressure of flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may increase. If a user moves hand away from the one or more sensors, then the pressure of flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may decrease.
[0060] In one embodiment, a two sensor module may be mounted on top surface of the enclosure. The two sensor module may be configured to recognise swipe gestures. In one aspect, a left swipe of the user may be recorded, when the user swipes from right to left. In another aspect, a right swipe of the user may be recorded, when the user swipes from left to right. It is to be noted that different swipes may be configured to open or close the tap. In one example, the left swipe may be recognised to open the tap, and the right swipe may be recognised to close the tap. In another example, the right swipe may be recognised to open the tap, and the left swipe may be recognised to close the tap.
[0061] Referring now to figure 7, an exploded view of the apparatus 702 controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the exploded view shows the water dispensing tap 210, a first enclosure 704, a second enclosure 706, the motor 214, a first sensor 708, a second sensor 710, and a roller pin 712.
[0062] In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210 may consist of a tap rod 205, a nozzle 211. In one example, the tap rod 205 may be a metal rod, a plastic rod and the like, and the nozzle 211 may be made of metal, plastic and the like. Further, the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the motor 214 using the roller pin 712. In one embodiment, one end of the roller pin 712 may be connected to the motor 214, and other end of the roller pin 712 may be connected to a spindle of the water dispensing tap 210. In one example, the roller pin 712 may be connected to the spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 using a screw 208. In one example, the motor 214 may be a servo motor. In another example, the motor 214 may be a stepper motor. In one aspect, during operation, the motor 214 may rotate in one of a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction, based on receiving an actuation signal. In the aspect, the roller pin 712 may rotate based on rotation of the motor 214. Based on the rotation of the roller pin 712, the spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 may move in upward direction or in downward direction. Based on the movement of the spindle, flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210 may be controlled.
[0063] Further, the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608. The controller 608 may be electronically connected to the first sensor 708 and the second sensor 710. In one example, the first sensor 708 and the second sensor 710 may correspond to an Infrared (IR) sensor. The first sensor 708 may be supported by the one or more through holes on a top surface of the enclosure 704,706. Further, the second sensor 710 may be supported by the one or more through holes on a bottom surface of the enclosure 704, 706.
[0064] In one embodiment, during operation, the controller 608 may receive a first signal from the first sensor 708. The first sensor 708 may transmit the first signal based on detection of a hand within a pre-defined distance from a top surface of the enclosure 704, 706. Further, the controller 608 may receive a second signal from the second sensor 710. The second sensor 710 may transmit the second signal based on detection of an object within a pre-defined distance from a bottom surface of the enclosure 704, 706.
[0065] Upon receiving the first signal and the second signal, the controller 608 may generate an actuation signal. The controller 608 may generate the actuation signal based on receiving the first signal and the second signal within a pre-defined time period. In one example, the actuation signal may comprise one of an instruction to start dispensing water, or to stop dispensing water. Once the actuation signal is generated, during operation, the controller 608 may transmit the actuation signal to a motor 214. Further, the motor 214 may rotate in one of a clockwise or an anticlockwise direction based on the actuation signal. Based on the rotation of the motor 214, the roller pin 712 may move in upward direction or in downward direction, thereby controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210. Further, the first enclosure 704 and the second enclosure 706 may enclose the water dispensing tap 210, the motor 214, the first sensor 708, the second sensor 710, and the controller 608.
[0066] In one embodiment, the apparatus 702 may dispense water once the trigger signal and the one or more signals are received from the first sensor and the second sensor. In this case, possibility of inadvertent dispensing of water may be reduced by using sensors on the top surface and on the bottom surface of the enclosure of the apparatus 702. In this case, a user may be able to clean the apparatus 702 without switching OFF the apparatus 702.
[0067] Referring now to figure 8(A), an enclosed apparatus for controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the water dispensing tap 210, the tap rod 205, the one or more sensors 218, a manual lever 808, and a controller may be enclosed by a first enclosure 804, a second enclosure 802, and a third enclosure 806. The third enclosure 806 may further comprise a shade at a predefined distance from the top surface of the first enclosure 804 and the second enclosure 802. In one example, the predefined distance may be 1cm outside a detecting range of the one or more sensors 218. The third enclosure 806 with the shade may avoid involuntary triggering during routine operations which occurs while replacing or refilling a water storage.
[0068] Referring now to figure 8(B), a side view of an assembled apparatus controlling flow of water from the water dispensing tap 210, is illustrated in accordance with an embodiment of the present subject matter. In one embodiment, the tap rod 205 of the water dispensing tap 210 may be sealed at the one or more cut-out walls of the first enclosure 804, the second enclosure 802 and the third enclosure 806. Further, a spindle of the water dispensing tap 210 may be coupled to the manual lever 808. The manual lever 808 may be mounted on the motor 214. The manual lever 808 may be sealed at one or more cut-out walls of the first enclosure 804. In one example, the manual lever 808 may be used to manually operate the water dispensing tap 210. The manual lever 808 may be used to open or close the water dispensing tap 210 manually, when a power failure emergency occurs.
[0069] Further, the first enclosure 804 may have one or more through holes. Further, the one or more sensors 218 may be fixed through the one or more through holes of the first enclosure 804. Furthermore, the one or more sensors 218 and the motor 214 may be coupled to the controller 608.
[0070] Exemplary embodiments for controlling flow of water from a water dispensing tap discussed above may provide certain advantages. Though not required to practice aspects of the disclosure, these advantages may include those provided by the following features.
[0071] Some embodiments of the system and the method enable efficient, convenient, economical and compatible touchless control of water.
[0072] Some embodiments of the system and the method enable replacement of physical activity such as touching of manual tap by humans.
[0073] Some embodiments of the system and the method enables reduction in chances of contamination of water and rusting of internal components.
[0074] Some embodiments of the system and the method enable reduction in spread of diseases due to automated water dispensing.
[0075] Some embodiment of the system and method enable preventive and timely maintenance.
[0076] Although implementations for a water dispensing device have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it is to be understood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods for the water dispensing device described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as examples of implementations for the water dispensing device.
,CLAIMS:
1. An apparatus for controlling flow of water for a water dispensing tap, comprising:
a water dispensing tap (210), wherein the water dispensing tap (210) consists of a tap rod (205), a nozzle (211), and a tap lever (604);
a motor (214), wherein the motor (214) is configured to rotate in a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction based on receiving an actuation signal, and wherein the motor (214) is coupled to the water dispensing tap (210) using a mechanical linkage;
a controller (608), wherein the controller (608) is communicatively coupled to the motor (214) and one or more sensors (218), wherein the one or more sensors (218) are configured to transmit one or more signal based on detection of an object or detection of a hand, and wherein the controller (608) is configured to generate the actuation signal; and
an enclosure (204, 206), wherein the enclosure (204, 206) is configured to enclose the water dispensing tap (210), the motor (214), the one or more sensors (218), and the controller (608).

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the enclosure (204, 206) further comprises:
one or more cut-out walls (220) on a side wall of the enclosure (204, 206), wherein, during assembly, the one or more cut-out walls (220) are configured to support the water dispensing tap (210), and wherein the tap rod (205) is sealed at the one or more cut-out walls (220);
one or more reinforcement walls (228), wherein, during assembly, the one or more reinforcement walls (228) are configured to support the tap rod (205) extended into the enclosure (204, 206), and wherein the one or more reinforcement walls (228) are configured to form a water protective section;
a motor holder (222) on an upper section of the enclosure (204, 206), wherein, during assembly, the motor holder (222) is configured to support the motor (214);
one or more through holes (224) on surface of the enclosure (204, 206), wherein the one or more through holes (224) are configured to support the one or more sensors (218); and
a controller holder (602), wherein, during assembly, the controller holder (602) is configured to support the controller (608).

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the enclosure consists of a first enclosure (204) and a second enclosure (206), wherein the first enclosure (204) and the second enclosure (206) are joined to form the enclosure, and wherein the enclosure consists of a shade at a predefined distance from a top surface of the enclosure.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical linkage is one of a chain linkage, a bar linkage, a gear linkage and a cam lever linkage.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical linkage consists of a cam (610) and a cam holding device (612), wherein the cam (610) is connected to the motor (214), and the cam holding device (612) is coupled to the cam (610) and the tap lever (604).

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mechanical linkage consists of a roller pin (212), wherein one end of the roller pin (212) is connected to a spindle of the water dispensing tap (210), and other end of the roller pin (212) is connected to the motor (214), and wherein the spindle is coupled to a manual lever mounted on the motor (214).

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the one or more sensors (218) comprises:
a first sensor (708), wherein the first sensor (708) is configured to transmit a first signal based on detection of a hand within a pre-defined distance from a top surface of the enclosure (204, 206); and
a second sensor (710), wherein the second sensor (710) is configured to transmit a second signal based on detection of an object within a pre-defined distance from a bottom surface of the enclosure (204, 206).

8. An apparatus for controlling flow of water for a water dispensing tap, comprising:
an enclosure (704, 706), wherein the enclosure (704, 706) is configured to enclose:
a water dispensing tap (210), wherein the water dispensing tap (210) consists of a tap rod (205), a nozzle (211), and a tap lever (604);
a motor (214), wherein the motor (214) is configured to rotate in a clockwise direction or an anticlockwise direction based on receiving an actuation signal, wherein the motor (214) is coupled to the water dispensing tap (210) using a mechanical linkage, and wherein the mechanical linkage is one of a chain linkage, a bar linkage, a gear linkage and a cam lever linkage; and
a controller (608), wherein the controller (608) is communicatively coupled to the motor (214), a first sensor (708), and a second sensor (710), wherein the first sensor is configured to transmit a first signal based on detection of a hand within a pre-defined distance from a top surface of the enclosure (704, 706), wherein the second sensor (710) is configured to transmit a second signal based on detection of an object within a pre-defined distance from a bottom of the enclosure (704, 706), and wherein the controller (608) is configured to generate the actuation signal based on the first signal and the second signal.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the enclosure (704, 706) further comprises:
one or more cut-out walls on a side wall of the enclosure (704, 706), wherein, during assembly, the one or more cut-out walls are configured to support the water dispensing tap (210), and wherein the tap rod (205) is sealed at the one or more cut-out walls;
one or more reinforcement walls, wherein, during assembly, the one or more reinforcement walls are configured to support the tap rod (205) extended into the enclosure (704, 706), and wherein the one or more reinforcement walls are configured to form a water protective section;
a motor holder on an upper section of the enclosure (704, 706), wherein, during assembly, the motor holder is configured to support the motor (214);
one or more through holes on surface of the enclosure (704, 706), wherein the one or more through holes are configured to support the first sensor (708) and the second sensor (710); and
a controller holder, wherein, during assembly, the controller holder is configured to support the controller (608).

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the controller is configured to generate the actuation signal based on receiving the first signal and the second signal within a pre-defined time period.