초록 ▼

A water dispenser includes a housing containing a water source and a water storage tank positioned above the water source. A water line connects the water source and the water storage tank. A vacuum pump draws a vacuum on the water storage tank thereby drawing water through the water line from the w

A water dispenser includes a housing containing a water source and a water storage tank positioned above the water source. A water line connects the water source and the water storage tank. A vacuum pump draws a vacuum on the water storage tank thereby drawing water through the water line from the water source to the water storage tank. A tap is coupled to the water storage tank and extends outside the housing to dispense water. Optionally, a carbon dioxide injection system may be provided for producing carbonated water. Further, an ultraviolet light source may be positioned adjacent the water line for disinfection.

대표청구항 ▼

[ I claim:] [1.] A water dispensing apparatus, comprising:a water source;a water storage tank positioned above the water source;a water line between the water source and the water storage tank;a vacuum pump for drawing a vacuum in a headspace above water in the water storage tank through a vacuum li

[ I claim:] [1.] A water dispensing apparatus, comprising:a water source;a water storage tank positioned above the water source;a water line between the water source and the water storage tank;a vacuum pump for drawing a vacuum in a headspace above water in the water storage tank through a vacuum line connected therebetween, whereby water is drawn through the water line from the water source to the water storage tank;a housing containing the water source, the water storage tank, the water line, and the vacuum pump; anda tap coupled to the water storage tank and extending outside the housing. [8.] A method for dispensing water, comprising:providing a water source;providing a water storage tank positioned above the water source;providing a water line between the water source and the water storage tank; andusing a vacuum pump for drawing a vacuum in a headspace above water in the water storage tank through a vacuum line connected therebetween, thereby drawing water through the water line from the water source to the water storage tank without contacting the water to be dispensed.