초록 ▼

The water dispenser of the present invention preferably has a draw tube mechanism for extending and retracting a draw tube with respect to a water bottle, a water pump for pumping water therefrom through the draw tube, and a dispensing outlet through which water is dispensed. The draw tube mechanism

The water dispenser of the present invention preferably has a draw tube mechanism for extending and retracting a draw tube with respect to a water bottle, a water pump for pumping water therefrom through the draw tube, and a dispensing outlet through which water is dispensed. The draw tube mechanism is preferably a rack and pinion set to which the draw tube is connected for moving the draw tube with respect to the water bottle. By preferably employing a substantially rigid draw tube (as opposed to conventional flexible draw tubes), the draw tube is consistently positioned to draw water from the bottom of the water bottle, thereby drawing all water from the water bottle and reducing waste. Some preferred embodiments provide for partial or full automation of the draw tube mechanism, such as by using one or more sensors to detect water bottle position, dispenser door closure, and the like.

대표청구항 ▼

1. A fluid dispenser for dispensing fluid from a fluid container having an opening, the fluid dispenser comprising:a draw tube removably insertable into the fluid container; a rack and pinion coupled to the draw tube, the draw tube movable by the rack and pinion into and out of the fluid container;

1. A fluid dispenser for dispensing fluid from a fluid container having an opening, the fluid dispenser comprising:a draw tube removably insertable into the fluid container; a rack and pinion coupled to the draw tube, the draw tube movable by the rack and pinion into and out of the fluid container; a motor drivably coupled to the pinion; a pump coupled to and in fluid communication with the draw tube to draw fluid from the fluid container; a reservoir in fluid communication with the pump and receiving fluid pumped by the pump; and a fluid dispensing outlet coupled to and in fluid communication with the reservoir.