Description:Field of the Invention

The present disclosure relates to hydration systems and more particularly to an integrated self-regulating hydration system that adjusts liquid conditions based on environmental inputs and user preferences.
Background
The background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.
The development of hydration systems has increasingly focused on providing individuals with the ability to maintain optimal hydration levels, especially in varied environmental conditions. Traditional hydration systems often require manual adjustments and monitoring to ensure the quality and temperature of the liquid intake. The need for an advanced hydration solution that autonomously regulates liquid conditions according to environmental changes and user preferences has become apparent. Such a system should integrate various technological components, including sensors for real-time monitoring of liquid conditions, mechanisms for adjusting these conditions, and user interaction platforms for personalized hydration management. Furthermore, energy efficiency and sustainability through the use of renewable energy sources for power supply are critical aspects that need to be addressed to enhance the functionality and user convenience of hydration systems.
Summary
The following presents a simplified summary of various aspects of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of such aspects. This summary is not an extensive overview of all contemplated aspects, and is intended to neither identify key or critical elements nor delineate the scope of such aspects. Its purpose is to present some concepts of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.
The following paragraphs provide additional support for the claims of the subject application.
The disclosure presents an integrated self-regulating hydration system designed to autonomously adjust liquid conditions to ensure optimal hydration. The system features a comprehensive assembly of sensors for detecting various liquid conditions, a control unit equipped with a connectivity module and a microcontroller for processing sensor data, and mechanisms for adjusting liquid conditions. These include a condensation-based water generation unit and Peltier elements for precise temperature control. An energy management module with power harvesting and storage capabilities ensures the system's energy efficiency, while a user interaction module and a notification system enhance user engagement and provide timely alerts based on the monitored liquid conditions and user-defined preferences. The system's innovative design and integration of advanced technologies offer a convenient and efficient solution for personalized hydration management.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The features and advantages of the present disclosure would be more clearly understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a self-regulating hydration system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) designed for controlling a liquid environment within the self-regulating hydration system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates the architecture of a system designed for effortlessly filling a water bottle with temperature-controlled water, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In the following detailed description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which is shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. In the drawings, like numerals describe substantially similar components throughout the several views. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to claim those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments may be utilized and structural, logical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims and equivalents thereof.
The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and “at least one” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The use of the term “at least one” followed by a list of one or more items (for example, “at least one of A and B”) is to be construed to mean one item selected from the listed items (A or B) or any combination of two or more of the listed items (A and B), unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
Pursuant to the "Detailed Description" section herein, whenever an element is explicitly associated with a specific numeral for the first time, such association shall be deemed consistent and applicable throughout the entirety of the "Detailed Description" section, unless otherwise expressly stated or contradicted by the context.
The term "self-regulating hydration system" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to an integrated hydration management apparatus designed to autonomously monitor, adjust, and control the conditions of the liquid it dispenses, in accordance with predetermined parameters, environmental conditions, and user preferences. This system comprises a sophisticated assembly of sensors for real-time detection of various liquid conditions, a control unit equipped with advanced computational capabilities to process the sensor data, and mechanisms for the adjustment of liquid conditions, including temperature modulation and purification processes. Additionally, the system features an energy management module for efficient power utilization, a user interaction module for personalized user engagement, and a notification system for alerting users about the status of the liquid or system needs.
The term "plurality of sensors" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to components configured to detect various liquid conditions within the hydration system. These sensors include a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor, each designed to monitor specific aspects of the liquid to ensure its quality and suitability for consumption.
The term "control unit" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the central processing unit of the hydration system, comprising a connectivity module and a microcontroller. The microcontroller is configured to receive and process data from the plurality of sensors, facilitating real-time monitoring and adjustment of liquid conditions.
The term "plurality of mechanisms" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the physical components of the system designed to adjust liquid conditions based on commands from the microcontroller. These mechanisms include at least a condensation-based water generation unit for producing water from atmospheric moisture, a Peltier heating element, and a Peltier cooling element for adjusting the temperature of the liquid.
The term "energy management module" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a component comprising power harvesting and power storage capabilities. This module is configured to supply energy to the system, particularly for water generation and temperature control functions, and to communicate with the control unit regarding energy management.
The term "user interaction module" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to the interface through which users interact with the hydration system. This module comprises a mobile application and a tactile interface, designed to display information from the energy management module and to allow users to customize their hydration experience based on personal preferences.
The term "notification system" as used throughout the present disclosure relates to a component operatively connected to the energy management module. The notification system is configured to provide alerts to the user based on the liquid conditions detected by the sensors and the user's preferences, ensuring timely information delivery for optimal hydration management.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a self-regulating hydration system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The self-regulating hydration system (100) is shown comprising a plurality of sensors (102), a control unit (104), a plurality of mechanisms (106), an energy management module (108), a user interaction module (110), and a notification system (112). Said plurality of sensors (102) is configured to detect various liquid conditions and includes, but is not limited to, a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor. Said control unit (104) comprises a connectivity module and a microcontroller wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive data from said plurality of sensors (102). Said plurality of mechanisms (106) includes at least a condensation-based water generation unit, a Peltier heating element, and a Peltier cooling element, wherein said mechanisms (106) are in electronic communication with said microcontroller. Said energy management module (108) includes power harvesting and storage components and is configured to communicate with said control unit (104). Said user interaction module (110) comprises a mobile application and a tactile interface. Said notification system (112) is operatively connected to said energy management module (108) and is configured to provide alerts to the user.
In an embodiment, the self-regulating hydration system (100) further enhanced by the inclusion of a water purification unit. This unit is meticulously integrated with the fluid level sensor (part of the plurality of sensors (102)) to ensure a seamless operation. The primary function of this purification unit is to scrutinize the water produced by the condensation-based water generation unit, ensuring it adheres to predetermined purity standards before it is deemed fit for consumption. This integration not only underscores the system's commitment to delivering quality hydration but also optimizes the efficiency of the water purification process by closely monitoring the fluid level, thereby maintaining an optimal balance between water generation and purification efforts.
In another embodiment, within the self-regulating hydration system (100), the condensation-based water generation unit stands out for its innovative use of a hygroscopic material. This material is adept at absorbing moisture from the surrounding air, a critical step in the water generation process. Once absorbed, the moisture is condensed into water, effectively leveraging the atmospheric humidity to ensure a continuous water supply. This feature exemplifies the system's (100) ability to harness environmental resources, reducing reliance on external water sources and highlighting its sustainability and autonomy in hydration management.
In yet another embodiment, the system (100) incorporates a solar panel module as a pivotal enhancement, directly interfacing with the energy management module (108). This solar panel module serves as a supplementary power source, especially tailored for powering the critical functions of water generation and temperature regulation. By harnessing solar energy, the system (100) underscores its commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. This solar integration not only provides an eco-friendly power solution but also enhances the system's autonomy, ensuring it remains operational in environments where traditional power sources might be scarce or unavailable.
In an embodiment, a significant feature of the self-regulating hydration system (100) is its thermal insulation compartment. Designed with meticulous attention to maintaining water temperature, this compartment ensures that the water retains its desired temperature for extended periods. This capability is essential for preserving the quality and comfort of the hydration experience, providing users with water at their preferred temperature anytime, thereby elevating the system's (100) convenience and user satisfaction.
In an embodiment, the inclusion of a leak-proof sealing mechanism in the system (100) addresses a crucial aspect of hydration systems - the prevention of water leakage. This mechanism is seamlessly integrated into the system's design, safeguarding the stored water under various conditions. Its effectiveness not only enhances the system's reliability but also ensures that the hydration process remains clean and efficient, free from the inconveniences associated with water spillage.
In another embodiment, the tactile interface of the system (100) represents a leap in user interaction design. Integrated as a touch-sensitive control panel within the bottle structure, it allows users to manually adjust the temperature of the water and activate the condensation-based water generation unit. This feature emphasizes the system's (100) adaptability to user needs, providing a tangible and intuitive means for users to tailor their hydration experience according to their personal preferences.
In yet another embodiment, an environmental adaptation module is a standout feature of the system (100), designed to intelligently adjust the operation of the water generation unit based on real-time environmental humidity and temperature data. This capability ensures the system's (100) water production is optimized for efficiency and responsiveness to environmental conditions, showcasing the system's advanced adaptability and commitment to providing a consistent hydration experience regardless of external factors.
In an embodiment, the mobile application associated with the system (100) is engineered to enhance user engagement by allowing the input of preferred hydration times and temperatures. This data is seamlessly transmitted to the microcontroller, ensuring that the system (100) autonomously adjusts its functions to align with individual user preferences. This personalized approach to hydration management underscores the system's commitment to user-centric design and convenience.
FIG. 2 illustrates a method (200) designed for controlling a liquid environment within the self-regulating hydration system (100), in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The method, designed for controlling a liquid environment within the self-regulating hydration system (100), offers a tailored approach to hydration, emphasizing personalization and continuous supply. In step (202), plurality of sensors (102) detects conditions such as fluid level, temperature, and purity. This critical data is transmitted to a microcontroller in step (204), which acts as the system's brain, analyzing the information to identify any necessary adjustments to maintain the ideal liquid environment in step (206). In step (208), the process encompasses water generation through a dedicated unit, ensuring a replenishable source of hydration. In step (210) temperature is precisely regulated by innovative Peltier elements, allowing for both heating and cooling based on the detected conditions and user preferences. In step (212), power management is efficiently handled by the energy management module (108), which oversees the energy requirements for the aforementioned processes, ensuring the system operates optimally and sustainably. In step (214), user interaction is facilitated through the module (110), which provides a platform for users to express their hydration preferences, such as desired temperature and hydration timings. Based on these inputs and the system's continuous monitoring, the notification system sends tailored alerts to users in step (216), informing them of the liquid conditions or reminding them to hydrate. This method embodies the system's (100) commitment to providing a personalized, adaptive, and user-centric hydration experience.
FIG. 3 illustrates the architecture of a system designed for effortlessly filling a water bottle with temperature-controlled water, in accordance with the embodiments of the present disclosure. The architecture delineates the interconnection between various components of the self-regulating hydration system, highlighting the functional relationships between the sensors, control unit, mechanisms, and user interface. Sensors, including a water level sensor, temperature sensor, and humidity sensor, are in communication with the control unit, which houses a connectivity module and microcontroller for processing sensor data. Actuators, such as a water pump and temperature control elements (heating and cooling), execute commands from the microcontroller. The control unit interfaces with cloud services for user management and data analytics, which in turn communicate with a user interface comprising a mobile app and status display. A notification service is also depicted as part of the cloud services, ensuring that users are alerted to pertinent information regarding the system's operation and the water's condition. Such architecture enables users to obtain hydration that meets their individual preferences for temperature and purity, facilitated by a seamless flow of data and controls within the system.
Example embodiments herein have been described above with reference to block diagrams and flowchart illustrations of methods and apparatuses. It will be understood that each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, respectively, can be implemented by various means including hardware, software, firmware, and a combination thereof. For example, in one embodiment, each block of the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowchart illustrations can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be loaded onto a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus create means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart block or blocks.
Throughout the present disclosure, the term ‘processing means’ or ‘microprocessor’ or ‘processor’ or ‘processors’ includes, but is not limited to, a general purpose processor (such as, for example, a complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor, a microprocessor implementing other types of instruction sets, or a microprocessor implementing a combination of types of instruction sets) or a specialized processor (such as, for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a network processor).
The term “non-transitory storage device” or “storage” or “memory,” as used herein relates to a random access memory, read only memory and variants thereof, in which a computer can store data or software for any duration.
Operations in accordance with a variety of aspects of the disclosure is described above would not have to be performed in the precise order described. Rather, various steps can be handled in reverse order or simultaneously or not at all.
While several implementations have been described and illustrated herein, a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein may be utilized, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the implementations described herein. More generally, all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific implementations described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing implementations are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, implementations may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Implementations of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

I/We claims:

A self-regulating hydration system (100), comprising:
a plurality of sensors (102) configured to detect liquid conditions, said sensors (102) including a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor;
a control unit (104), said control unit (104) comprising a connectivity module and a microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive data from said plurality of sensors (102);
a plurality of mechanisms (106), said mechanisms (106) including at least a condensation-based water generation unit, a Peltier heating element, and a Peltier cooling element, wherein said mechanisms (106) are in electronic communication with said microcontroller and are configured to adjust liquid conditions based on commands from the microcontroller;
an energy management module (108) comprising power harvesting and power storage components, wherein said energy management module (108) is configured to communicate with said control unit (104) to provide energy for water generation and temperature control functions;
a user interaction module (110) comprising a mobile application and a tactile interface, wherein said user interaction module (110) is configured to display information from said energy management module (108) and to allow a user to interact with the self-regulating hydration system (100); and
a notification system (112), operatively connected to said energy management module (108), configured to provide alerts to the user based on the liquid conditions and user preferences.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a water purification unit, wherein said purification unit is integrated with the fluid level sensor and configured to ensure that water generated by the condensation-based water generation unit meets predetermined purity standards.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the condensation-based water generation unit includes a hygroscopic material, said material being capable of absorbing and condensing moisture from the air to facilitate water generation.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a solar panel module, wherein said solar panel module is operatively connected to the energy management module (108) and configured to provide auxiliary power for water generation and temperature regulation.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a thermal insulation compartment, wherein said compartment is designed to retain the desired temperature of the water for prolonged periods.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a leak-proof sealing mechanism, wherein said mechanism is integrated into the hydration system to prevent water from escaping.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the tactile interface is a touch-sensitive control panel integrated into the bottle structure, allowing for manual temperature adjustments and activation of the condensation-based water generation unit.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising an environmental adaptation module, wherein said module is configured to modify the operation of the water generation unit based on environmental humidity and temperature data, optimizing water production.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the mobile application is configured to receive user input regarding preferred hydration times and temperatures, and to transmit this information to the microcontroller for autonomous system adjustment.
A method for controlling a liquid environment using a self-regulating hydration system (100), the method comprising:
detecting, by a plurality of sensors (102), liquid conditions, wherein said sensors (102) include a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor;
transmitting, by said sensors (102), liquid condition data to a microcontroller;
processing, by the microcontroller, the liquid condition data to determine required adjustments to the liquid environment;
generating, by a condensation-based water generation unit, water based on the processed liquid condition data and under command of the microcontroller;
regulating, by Peltier heating and cooling elements, the temperature of the generated water to maintain a desired temperature range;
managing, by an energy management module (108), the power requirements for the water generation and temperature control processes;
displaying, on a user interaction module (110), the liquid conditions and user preferences, wherein said user interaction module (110) comprises a mobile application and a tactile interface;
sending, by a notification system (112), alerts to a user based on the liquid conditions and user preferences;
wherein said method operates to provide a continuous and convenient supply of personalized hydration.

INTEGRATED SELF-REGULATING HYDRATION SYSTEM WITH ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTATION CAPABILITIES

An integrated self-regulating hydration system is disclosed, comprising sensors for detecting liquid conditions including fluid level, temperature, and purification status. A control unit with a connectivity module and a microcontroller processes sensor data to adjust liquid conditions via mechanisms including a condensation-based water generation unit and Peltier elements for heating and cooling. An energy management module, comprising power harvesting and storage, powers the system and communicates with the control unit. A user interaction module, including a mobile application and a tactile interface, facilitates user engagement with the system, while a notification system alerts users based on liquid conditions and preferences. The system ensures optimal hydration by adapting to environmental conditions and user needs.

Drawings
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FIG. 1
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FIG.2
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FIG. 3

, Claims:I/We claims:

A self-regulating hydration system (100), comprising:
a plurality of sensors (102) configured to detect liquid conditions, said sensors (102) including a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor;
a control unit (104), said control unit (104) comprising a connectivity module and a microcontroller, wherein the microcontroller is configured to receive data from said plurality of sensors (102);
a plurality of mechanisms (106), said mechanisms (106) including at least a condensation-based water generation unit, a Peltier heating element, and a Peltier cooling element, wherein said mechanisms (106) are in electronic communication with said microcontroller and are configured to adjust liquid conditions based on commands from the microcontroller;
an energy management module (108) comprising power harvesting and power storage components, wherein said energy management module (108) is configured to communicate with said control unit (104) to provide energy for water generation and temperature control functions;
a user interaction module (110) comprising a mobile application and a tactile interface, wherein said user interaction module (110) is configured to display information from said energy management module (108) and to allow a user to interact with the self-regulating hydration system (100); and
a notification system (112), operatively connected to said energy management module (108), configured to provide alerts to the user based on the liquid conditions and user preferences.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a water purification unit, wherein said purification unit is integrated with the fluid level sensor and configured to ensure that water generated by the condensation-based water generation unit meets predetermined purity standards.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the condensation-based water generation unit includes a hygroscopic material, said material being capable of absorbing and condensing moisture from the air to facilitate water generation.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a solar panel module, wherein said solar panel module is operatively connected to the energy management module (108) and configured to provide auxiliary power for water generation and temperature regulation.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a thermal insulation compartment, wherein said compartment is designed to retain the desired temperature of the water for prolonged periods.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising a leak-proof sealing mechanism, wherein said mechanism is integrated into the hydration system to prevent water from escaping.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the tactile interface is a touch-sensitive control panel integrated into the bottle structure, allowing for manual temperature adjustments and activation of the condensation-based water generation unit.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, further comprising an environmental adaptation module, wherein said module is configured to modify the operation of the water generation unit based on environmental humidity and temperature data, optimizing water production.
The self-regulating hydration system (100) of claim 1, wherein the mobile application is configured to receive user input regarding preferred hydration times and temperatures, and to transmit this information to the microcontroller for autonomous system adjustment.
A method for controlling a liquid environment using a self-regulating hydration system (100), the method comprising:
detecting, by a plurality of sensors (102), liquid conditions, wherein said sensors (102) include a fluid level sensor, a liquid temperature sensor, and a purification status sensor;
transmitting, by said sensors (102), liquid condition data to a microcontroller;
processing, by the microcontroller, the liquid condition data to determine required adjustments to the liquid environment;
generating, by a condensation-based water generation unit, water based on the processed liquid condition data and under command of the microcontroller;
regulating, by Peltier heating and cooling elements, the temperature of the generated water to maintain a desired temperature range;
managing, by an energy management module (108), the power requirements for the water generation and temperature control processes;
displaying, on a user interaction module (110), the liquid conditions and user preferences, wherein said user interaction module (110) comprises a mobile application and a tactile interface;
sending, by a notification system (112), alerts to a user based on the liquid conditions and user preferences;
wherein said method operates to provide a continuous and convenient supply of personalized hydration.

INTEGRATED SELF-REGULATING HYDRATION SYSTEM WITH ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTATION CAPABILITIES