Patent ID: 12246283

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present invention.

The present invention generally relates to improvements made in atmospheric water generators. The term “atmospheric water generator” (hereinafter “AWG”) refers herein to any device which is capable of extracting water vapors (humidity) in the air, transform it into stored water by condensing some of the humidity into water. The condensation water is achieved by reducing the temperature of a relatively humid air flow down below its dew point. The atmospheric water generator thus comprises a refrigeration cycle as commonly used in the art including a refrigerant line, an expansion device (such as an expansion valve), an evaporator (cold heat exchanger), a condenser (hot heat exchanger), and a compressor. Usually the atmospheric water generator includes a blower to increase the volumetric airflow passing through the evaporator. Often, a collection means such as a water sump collects the water drops which are formed on the evaporator. The collected water is transferred in most cases from the water sump to a water tank for storing the condensed water either with the aid of a pump or gravitationally. Various filters may also be installed—for filtering the water (sedimentation filters, carbon filters, reverse osmosis filters etc.), adding minerals, sanitizing (e.g. with UV radiation), and for filtering the incoming air for purifying polluted air from particles and harmful chemicals. The AWG also includes dispensing means for providing the stored water upon demand, which include a dispensing line and at least one faucet and may also include an HMI unit showing water level, operational buttons and fault indications.

In a first aspect the invention relates to energy efficient cooling features for cooling stored water to meet demand for cold water by the user. The invention provides three optional features which can be implemented solely or in any combination: (i) a cooling compartment having a shared wall with the storage tank and comprising a cooling coil being submerged in a cooling medium. The stored water can optionally be connected to a stored-water circulation cycle which draws water from the storage tank and re-enters the tank, for example with a sprinkler for sprinkling the cycled water on the cooled walls of the storage tank; (ii) a stored-water circulation cycle which draws water from the storage tank and passes through a water-refrigerant heat exchanger where the water is chilled before reentering the stored water storage; (iii) a system which draws stored water from the storage tank and drips the stored water on the evaporator of the water generation refrigeration cycle, recollects and returns the chilled drops back to the storage tank. In some embodiments the refrigerant which is used to transfer heat with the stored water (or with the cooling medium in feature (i)) arrives from the main refrigeration cycle which is used for generating water from the air moisture.

Cooling Compartment System

The first feature provided by the invention for cooling generated stored water refers to an AWG having storage tank for storing the condensate water which is produced by the apparatus, and a cooling compartment (a vessel, a space, tank or container having a volume defined by walls which is capable of holding a liquid or gel cooling medium, hereinafter the “cooling compartment”), wherein at least a portion of at least one wall is common to the storage tank and to the cooling compartment and separates the two, such that one surface of the (partial) wall faces the storage tank and the opposite surface faces the cooling compartment (hereinafter the “common wall”). In other words, the storage tank and the cooling compartment are sharing at least a portion of a wall (the common wall). The term wall refers to any surface that forms a boundary between one space and another. The surface can be flexible such as thermoplastic polymer sheet, or non-flexible such as a stainless steel surface. The wall can be multilayered or coated.

The cooling compartment is designed to hold a cooling medium, and comprises a refrigerant coil being in fluid communication with the refrigeration cycle. The cooling medium can be a liquid or a gel which can act as a thermal buffer by maintaining a low temperature for a prolonged duration. In some embodiments the cooling medium is made from a material having a melting point temperature lower than 0° C. In some embodiments the cooling medium is a mixture of water and propylene glycol.

When the cooling compartment is filled with a cooling medium, the cooling medium comes in contact with the common partial wall from the compartment face and heat can be transferred form the stored water located on the other wall surface, facing the storage tank through the common wall toward the cooling medium. In some embodiments all the outer lateral sidewalls and bottom end of the storage tank are surrounded by the cooling medium. The term sidewall should be construed to include the two opposing sides of a vessel as well as the opposing front and back when the vessel has cubic walls. In some embodiments more than 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the sidewalls of the storage tank are common with the cooling compartment and may exchange heat with the cooling medium. In some embodiments the storage tank is jacketed by the cooling compartment, i.e., it is intimately covered by the cooling compartment.

In some embodiments the cooling compartment is enclaved in the storage tank. In some embodiments the cooling compartment forms a protrusion inside the storage tank. In some embodiments the cooling compartment forms multiple protrusions into the storage tank. In some embodiments, the compartment is partially surrounded by the water storage tank. In some embodiments, all the outer lateral sidewalls and bottom end of the compartment are surrounded by the storage tank. In some embodiments more than 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the sidewalls of the compartment are surrounded by the storage tank.

In some embodiments, the common wall is made of a smooth surface, and in some embodiments it is made of waved surface to increase surface area and improve the heat transfer between the cooling medium and the stored water stored in the storage tank.

In some embodiments even portions of the top end of the storage tank are surrounded by the cooling medium. The option of having the top end of the storage tank submerged in the cooling medium is less favorable due to concern of possible leakage of the cooling medium into the stored water.

In some embodiments the storage tank is made of a thermoplastic material. In some embodiments the storage tank is made of a metallic material such as stainless steel. In some embodiments only the common wall to the storage tank and the cooling compartment is made of a metallic material such as stainless steel.

In some embodiments at least one of the storage tank and the cooling compartment comprises at least a second portion of a wall, other than the portion of a wall that is common to both the storage tank and to the compartment, wherein the second at least portion of the wall is covered by insulation layer.

In some embodiments, the structure of the cooling compartment is sealed so leakage from the cooling compartment toward the tank is prevented. In some embodiments the structure of the tank is sealed so water cannot flow or drip into the cooling compartment.

The cooling coil is accommodated in the cooling compartment in such a manner that when the cooling compartment holds the cooling medium, then the cooling coil is at least partially submerged in the cooling medium and transfers heat from the cooling medium to the main refrigeration cycle of the AWG. In some embodiments, the cooling coil is in close contact or attached to the sidewall of the storage tank, so it concomitantly chills the cooling medium and the storage tank and indirectly chills its content.

There are several advantages of this solution over the conventional solutions of submerging a cooling coil in the stored water directly. The first is that the cooling medium functions as a heat sink capacitor even when the level of stored water in the tank is low. When new water is introduced to the storage tank, the newly added water is chilled by transferring heat to the previously chilled cooling medium. The second is that the cooling coil can be coupled to the main refrigerating cycle of the water generation refrigeration cycle and by using the same refrigeration cycle components, to chill the water stored in the water tank. This comes instead of either having a designated refrigerating loop, needing to operate the main refrigerating loop especially for cooling the stored water or installing a TEC heat exchanger for chilling water ad-hoc. Another advantage is that the refrigerant coil does not need to come in direct contact with the stored water, which requires the use of a double walled coil and/or made of a food grade material.

The cooling medium can be cooled at least to a temperature close or below water freezing point. In some embodiments the cooling medium can be selected from water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol or combination thereof.

The storage tank can be any form of water tank available in the art for storing water. The volume of the storage tank is adapted according to the specific application of the AWG. Generally, it should have a volume which would be sufficient to provide supply of water for meeting the highest reasonable demand in short period of time which exceeds the production rate of fresh water by the apparatus. For example, an AWG which is meant to be used as a domestic water dispenser would usually include a storage tank having the volume of about 10 Liters.

In some embodiments only a portion of the stored water is intended for dispensing chilled water. In these embodiments the AWG may comprise a separate tank for cold water (hereinafter a “cold water tank”), and the cooling system cools the cold water tank instead of the main stored water storage tank.

The volume of the cooling compartment needs to be proportional to the volume of the coil required cooling capacity. In order to improve the heat transfer rate from the cooling coil to the medium, the compartment design is better to allow a thermosiphon effect, so that the medium will circulate during the cooling process. The volume of the medium and common wall surface should be designed to meet the required cooling periods. The person of skill in the art would know to calculate the required volumes, surface areas, flowrates, etc. in order to reduce the initial temperature of the generated water to the desired target temperature and required cooling rate.

In some embodiment, insulation is used to insulate the walls of the storage tank that are exposed to the ambient or hot air and/or insulating the walls of the cooling compartment that are exposed to the ambient or hot air and reduces heating of the cooling medium as well as the stored water in the tank and by that it saves energy.

In some embodiments the storage tank is capped with a cap adapted to reduce leakages of stored water from the storage tank. In some embodiments the cooling compartment is capped with a cap adapted to reduce leakages of cooling medium from the cooling compartment. In some embodiments both vessels are capped with a single cap.

To operate the cooling and the hydraulic system, the system may further comprise a control unit being connected to at least one of:

A temperature sensor (e.g. a thermometer or thermocouple) adapted to measure the stored water temperature.

A temperature sensor adapted to measure the cooling medium temperature.

A temperature sensor adapted to measure the evaporator temperature.

A volume of float sensor adapted to measure the amount of water in the tank.

A volume of float sensor adapted to measure the amount of water in the sump.

A control unit may also connect those sensors, and/or operate some of the refrigeration cycle components and some of the hydraulic components such as compressor, refrigerant valves, pump(s), hydraulic valves, UV lamp, etc.

In some embodiments, the control unit may be connected to a user interface to accept dispensing command (pouring button) or in order to display water level.

The control unit is programed to perform the logic of the system, for example according to the logic described by algorithms500,700,710&720or600,700,710&720. In some embodiments, the control unit is programed to perform the logic described also in algorithm800.

Heat Exchanger Chiller System

Another stored water cooling feature the invention provides is an AWG comprising a stored water circulation loop that circulates the water from a storage tank through a heat exchanger for cooling the stored water, wherein the heat exchanger is in fluid communication with the refrigeration cycle for generating water of the AWG.

To this end, the AWG comprises a refrigeration cycle for condensing water from the atmosphere into stored water, a storage tank for storing the stored water, and a stored water circulation loop. In some embodiments, the AWG comprises a separate cold water storage tank, and in these embodiments the circulation cycle is connected to the cold water tank and the water stored in the cold water tank is circulated and cooled by the cooling system. The refrigeration cycle for generating water by condensing water from the atmosphere into stored water comprises a refrigerant line, an expansion device (such as an expansion valve), an evaporator, a condenser, and a compressor. The water that is generated can be first stored in a sump and then transferred to a storage tank of stored water or may directly be collected into the storage tank.

The storage tank is connected to a circulation loop comprising an outlet from the storage tank, an inlet thereto and a tubing line for connecting the outlet to the inlet. The circulation loop further comprises a main pump for circulating the stored water in the circulation loop, and a heat exchanger designed to exchange heat between the refrigeration cycle and the stored condensate water during the circulation.

The setup order of the pump and the water-refrigerant heat exchanger has almost no significance, i.e. the water pump can be upstream the water-refrigerant heat exchanger or vice versa.

The circulation loop may further comprise unidirectional valves, for example, a unidirectional valve placed upstream the circulation pump to prevent backflow of water to the circulation pump, various water filters, a three-way valve for directing water to other lines such as a dispensing line.

In some embodiments the circulation loop can be joined with a collection line which leads water from a collection sump to the storage tank via a bi-directional inlet valve.

In some embodiments, a bi-directional valve diverts refrigerant flow exiting the condenser toward the water-refrigerant heat exchanger. In some embodiments, water-refrigerant heat exchanger is connected in series to the evaporator, so a bi-directional valve is not required. Expansion means should be located between the refrigerant line connecting the condenser exit and the water-refrigerant heat exchanger.

The water-refrigerant heat exchanger has an entry allowing stored water circulating in the stored water circulation loop to enter the heat exchanger, exchange heat with a refrigerant and exit the heat exchanger back to the stored water. Conventional plates heat exchangers or tubular heat exchanger or any other appropriate heat exchanger can be used for this purpose. The person of skill in the art would know to calculate the required surface areas, volumes, flow rates, and so on. in order to reduce the initial temperature of the generated water to the desired target temperature in the required rate.

Dual Function Evaporator System

A third feature for cooling stored water in an AWG apparatus relates to a system which draws water from the storage tank and brings the drawn water into contact with the evaporator of the water generation refrigeration cycle. The stored water transfers heat with the refrigerant in the evaporator and water exiting the evaporator at a lower temperature is collected by the generated water sump (or any other collection means such as a funnel connected to a water line) and returned back to the storage tank. Thus, stored water arriving from the storage tank is cooled over the evaporator and exits the evaporator at a lower temperature.

The system includes a stored water outlet which is connected to a water line that brings stored water to the evaporator of the water generation refrigeration cycle. The passage of water from the storage tank to the evaporator can be gravitational, if the water tank is positioned above the evaporator. In some embodiments the water line may comprise a water pump to pull stored water from the tank. In some embodiments, the water line can comprise an on-off valve. In some embodiments the on-off valve is operated by a control unit which is connected to a thermometer located in the storage tank and receives temperature reading therefrom, and activates the on-off valve (or the said pump) whenever the temperature is equal or above a predetermined threshold set by the manufacturer or as set by the user and whenever the water temperature reaches a low predefine value, the cooling is ceased. In some embodiment, the on-off valve is operated by a thermostat.

In some embodiments, the water line may either pass next to the evaporator where it drips the water thereon. In some embodiments, the water line comprises holes or slits which drip water droplets along the cooled fin and from there they drip to a water sump, as the condensed droplets derived from the humid air. In some embodiments, during the water cooling process, a fresh air shutter window in the enclosure of the AWG that is located passed the evaporator, in some embodiments between the evaporator and the condenser, is opened, reducing the airflow upon the evaporator and allowing the condenser to be cooled by the fresh air from the environment surrounding the AWG. This system allows cooling the water without condensing water and is useful especially when the tank is full and adding new condensate water will cause it to overflow. It further reduces the risk that dripped water over the evaporator will swipe away because of the airflow that flows over the evaporator. Under hot and humid conditions, very little air is required for the generation of water by the evaporator, but on the other hand, the condenser heats more than usual and requires more air to chill. The fresh air window that is located between the evaporator and the condenser can solve this problem by such that it is (fully or partially) opened to allow a second air stream inflow to join the airflow that flows through the condenser which cool down the temperature of the condenser without increasing the amount of air passing through the evaporator, and in some cases, even decreasing it.

Reference is now made toFIG.1depicting an AWG apparatus100according to an embodiment of the invention. The apparatus should comprise many components that are not shown innFIG.1or the figures to come such as a utility line, controller, temperature sensor(s), push button(s) and some other control means. A person skill in the art would know how to extrapolate the details provided herein into a fully operative AWG. The apparatus100comprises an enclosure102having an air inlet104(equipped with an air filter34) and air outlet106. The enclosure102accommodates a water generating refrigeration cycle, a water chilling refrigeration cycle and a generated water system. The water generating refrigeration cycle comprises a compressor2, condenser4, expansion means6, evaporator8, and a set of refrigerant tubes10,12,14,15,16and17. A refrigerant gas is compressed in the compressor4. The compressed refrigerant gas travels in refrigerant line10to the condenser4where it condenses into a liquid. The condensed liquid travels out of condenser4through refrigerant line12. A bi-directional valve18is installed on the refrigerant tube12and has two states. In a first state, it directs the condensed refrigerant liquid to refrigerant tube14where it flows in the water generation refrigerant cycle and reaches the evaporator8for condensation of humidity into water. In a second state, the bi-directional valve18directs the condensed refrigerant liquid to refrigerant line20of a water chilling refrigeration cycle to be described infra. After the condensed liquid is transferred to refrigerant tube14, it reaches an expansion means6(e.g. capillary tube, expansion valve), where it turns into a liquid-gas cold mixture and enters the evaporator8in where it evaporates. After exiting the evaporator8, the refrigerant in gas phase is transferred through a suction lines16,17back to the compressor2to complete the cycle.

A blower30is located near the air outlet106and motivates (when active) an air flow32to enter the enclosure through the air inlet104. The air then passes through an air filter34, which removes particles and may absorb chemical contaminants, then through the evaporator8, where the temperature of the airflow is reduced below its dew point, shelling off some moisture which condenses into water droplets. The relatively cooled and dry airflow further flows through the condenser4, in which it is being heated and then flows out of the enclosure102through the air outlet106. In some embodiments, the blower4can be located in any suitable position along flow-line32.

The water droplets that are generated by the evaporator8are collected gravitationally in a water sump42. The latter is part of the hydraulic water system, which will now be detailed. The water in sump42is pumped by a collection pump46which is located on a water collection line44in order to direct the water to a storage tank62for storing the stored water63. A unidirectional valve48located upstream the collection pump46directs the water stream with no return to a collection filter50. The collection filter may be a sediment filter, to reduce sediments such as fine duct, an active carbon filter to absorb chemicals, a combination of the two or any other suitable filtration media. From the collection filter50, the water line44joins a hydraulic main suction line52into a sprinkle line54. The hydraulic main suction line52is equipped with the main pump52.1, followed by a unidirectional valve52.2and second filter52.3, for example, an active carbon filter or Calcite filter. Upstream the junction of lines44and52is a second filter56positioned on sprinkle line54. The third filter56treats both the water arriving from the collection line44and the water arriving from the hydraulic main suction line52. Filter52can be, for example a UV filter or nanometric filter. Upstream the second filter56is a bidirectional hydraulic valve58. In a first state (default), the valve directs the water to remain on the sprinkler line54and in a second state it diverges the water from the sprinkler line54to a dispensing line and outlet60. The bidirectional hydraulic valve58is in communication with a control button (not shown) which is available to the user and can be placed for example on the control panel interface of the apparatus, or it can be for example a mechanical push button close to the faucet of the apparatus. The dispensing of water can continue for a preset duration (for example a duration sufficient for filling a standard glass of water or a carafe) or as long as the user presses the control button, as commonly known in the art.

Upstream the bidirectional water valve, the sprinkler line54enters the top end of the storage tank62and ends with a sprinkler64. The sprinkler64receives the circulation water and sprinkles it on the inner side66of the common wall of the storage tank62and a cooling compartment70. As a result, the sprinkled water exchanges heat with the sidewall of the storage tank62which in turn exchanges heat with a cooling medium68(e.g. liquid or gel) which is contained in a cooling compartment70. The cooling compartment70jackets the storage tank62around all of its sides including the bottom and excluding the top end.

In some embodiments, at least one of the unidirectional valve48,52.2are included inside the pump (46,52.1accordingly). In some embodiments, the evaporator8bottom is located above the storage tank62and the water can flow directly from the evaporator toward storage tank. This eliminates the need for pump46, unidirectional valve48and even sump42. In some embodiments, there may be another intermediate (ambient temperature) tank on line54. In some embodiments, at least one of the sprinkler, one of the filters, one of the unidirectional valves might not be required.

Back to the refrigeration cycle, a cooling coil72for cooling the refrigerant medium68is submerged in the refrigerant medium68. The cooling coil72is connected downstream to a refrigerant line21, which extends out of the water generation refrigeration cycle, from the bidirectional valve18. When valve18directs the refrigerant toward the cooling coil, the refrigerant in liquid state flows through line20toward second expansion mean24. In some embodiments, the expansion means6,24can be united to one expansion mean located right before bi-directional valve18. The refrigerant become a liquid-gas cold mixture, and flows throw line21toward chilling coil72. Inside coil72, the refrigerant boils at low temperature, absorb heat energy from cooling media68. From coil72the refrigerant flows toward refrigerant line22which connects to the refrigerant suction line16exiting the evaporator8, and returns to the compressor2through suction line17to conclude a closed cycle.

The cooling coil72has a helical form or rectangular-helical form in order to increase the surface area ratio and thus increase heat transfer efficiency with the refrigerating medium68, and it is positioned, in the given exemplary embodiment, in proximity to the common wall66of the storage tank62and the cooling compartment70in order to more efficiently chill the content storage tank62by direct chilling of the common wall66in addition to the cooling of the refrigerating medium68.

The cooling compartment70is insulated with an insulation layer74covering the outer wall of the cooling compartment70. The insulation layer can be made of insulating foam such as foamed polyurethane, mineral wool or other suitable material.

A breather76is attached to the storage tank, allowing equalizing the air pressure of tank62with the surrounding, to filter the air entering the tank during the dispensing process and to evacuate air from the tank during its filling process.

Reference is now made toFIG.2depicting another water-cooling feature of an AWG apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The AWG apparatus200shares most components having an identical arrangement as the AWG apparatus100depicted inFIG.1. Similar components are identically annotated and only the differences between the two embodiments are discussed hereby.

The water-cooling refrigerant cycle of the AWG200comprises a water-refrigerant heat exchanger80located on the refrigerant line21. Thus, instead of cooling a cooling medium in a cooling compartment70as in apparatus100, the refrigerant of the water-cooling refrigerant cycle exchanges heat with (usually stored) stored water that is circulated in the circulation line through the water-refrigerant heat exchanger80.

In its default state, bidirectional valve58direct the combined circulation and collection line towards a water-refrigeration heat exchanger80located hydraulically upstream the three-way valve58. The refrigerant passes through the water-refrigerant heat exchanger80and exchanges heat with the circulating water that passes through the water-refrigerant heat exchanger80. As a result, water, which exit the water-refrigerant heat exchange through line84is cooler than the water entering the water-refrigerant heat exchanger.

When valve18directs the refrigerant toward heat exchanger80, the refrigerant in liquid state flows through second expansion mean24. The refrigerant becomes a liquid-gas cold mixture, and flows throw line21toward heat exchanger80. Inside heat exchanger80, the refrigerant boils at low temperature, absorb heat energy from water flowing toward line84. From heat exchanger80, the refrigerant flows toward refrigerant line22which connects to the refrigerant line16exiting the evaporator8, and returns to the compressor through suction line16to conclude a close cycle.

The AWG apparatus200further comprises a dispensing filter86along line60, for example a nanometric filter.

An insulation layer74insulates the storage tank.

Note that the AWG apparatus200, lacks the cooling compartment70which characterizes the AWG apparatus ofFIG.1. Nonetheless, in some embodiments of the invention an AWG apparatus can comprise both means for cooling the stored water.

Reference is now made toFIG.3depicting an AWG apparatus comprising yet another feature for cooling the stored water in the storage according to the invention. The AWG apparatus300shares most components having an identical arrangement as the AWG apparatuses100and200depicted inFIGS.1and2, respectively. Similar components are identically annotated and only the differences between the two embodiments are discussed herein below.

A water-cooling outlet92is connected to the outlet52of tank62through an on-off valve94. In some embodiments, a bidirectional valve is positioned at the junction of outlet52and water cooling outlet92instead of the on-off valve94. The end of the water cooling outlet92is located in proximity or embedded with the evaporator8of the water generation refrigeration cycle. When the on-off valve94is on, stored water from the hydraulic main suction line is gravitationally flowing to the evaporator8where exchanges heat with the water-generation refrigerant and pours into the water sump42and may mixed with freshly generated water that condensed from the moisture of the stream of air32. The chilled water is then returned the storage tank62to as previously detailed for the generated water track from the water sump42to the storage tank62.

This cooling mechanism, renders the refrigeration line extension to the cooling mechanisms that was required for the cooling compartment70or the cooling water heat exchanger80moot. Therefore, in apparatus300there is no need for a bidirectional valve such as valve18and refrigerant lines21and22that are used in apparatuses100and200. Accordingly, the refrigerant line exiting the evaporator extends all the way to the compressor, as it does not join the refrigerant line22, which exits the water-cooling refrigeration cycle.

In some embodiments, a shutter96in the enclosure102is being open to define an aperture in the enclosure during the water-cooling process. The aperture allows air98to enter the condenser4without passing through the evaporator8, reducing airflow over the evaporator8and reducing the risk for the dripping water to be drifted away. It also allows accelerating the cooling process because most of the cooling capacity of the evaporator is directed to chill the water rather tank to condense more water from the air.

In some embodiment, especially when the storage tank is located below the evaporator, valve94may be replaced by a pump for that functionality.

Defrost Cycle

In another aspect, the invention provides a defrost cycle (i.e. a defrost system) for evaporators of AWG machines. When the dew point of the environment reduces to a level that water condensation is more efficient to occur in sub-zero evaporator temperature, frost may form on the evaporator's fins. In embodiments in which the evaporator is a fins and tubes heat exchanger, if the evaporator is not defrosted occasionally, the frost will gutter and block the air passages between the evaporator's fins. Moreover, condensate water will not be collected toward the stored water tank. The defrosting system detailed below significantly reduces the defrost duration of available methods in the art.

According to the invention, the refrigeration cycle, which comprises a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, an expansion means, an evaporator, a refrigeration line connecting the compressor to the condenser, the condenser to the expansion means, the expansion means to the evaporator and the evaporator to the compressor, further comprises a defrosting system.

One option of a defrosting system comprises of an on-off valve being connected, optionally with a refrigerant line, to the refrigerant line connecting the compressor to the condenser and to one of (i) the refrigerant line connecting the expansion means to the evaporator or (ii) the refrigerant line connecting the evaporator to the compressor. When the on-off valve is in an active mode it enables compressed refrigerant gas to flow from the compressor to the evaporator, consequently warming the evaporator and melting the frost/ice.

Another option for a defrosting system comprises a reversing valve. The reversing valve is a four way reversing valve installed on the refrigerant line connecting the compressor to the condenser and on the refrigerant line connecting the compressor to the evaporator. The reversing valve can be actuated between two states. In a first state the reversing valve is not activated while the compressor is activated, the reversing valve allows compressed hot gas to exit the compressor toward the condenser, and cold, low-pressure refrigerant to return the compressor from the evaporator. When activated while the compressor is activated, the reversing valve reverses the flow direction and allows compressed hot gas exit the compressor toward the evaporator, and cold, low pressure refrigerant to return to the compressor from the condenser. This reverse flow actually reverses the role between the evaporator and the condenser, the evaporator now is the hot heat exchanger, and consequently, warming the evaporator and melting the frost/ice.

Reference is now made toFIGS.4A and4Bdepicting specific embodiments of defrost systems according to the current invention.

The AWG apparatus400shares most components having an identical arrangement as the AWG apparatuses100,200and300depicted inFIGS.1,2and3, respectively. Similar components are identically annotated.

FIG.4Adescribes an additional on-off valve connected between refrigerant line10and line15being the defrosting valve. When activated, the on-off valve404is configured to allow flow of hot compressed gas from refrigerant line10through line404, then through line406and then toward the evaporator entrance line15.

The operation of the on-off valve402is controlled by the control means of the AWG (not shown in the figure).

When a defrost procedure starts, the compressor2shuts down and the valve opens to allow hot gas refrigerant in high pressure from the condenser4to flow toward the evaporator8. The hot gas increases the temperature of the evaporator's components (e.g. the fins) and melts the frost into water. Further defrost can be done by blowing ambient air through the evaporator8and wait until the frost melts to a sufficient level or melts completely.

In some embodiments, the on-off valve402is connected between lines10and line17instead to line15inFIG.4Aperforming almost the same function.

Reference is now made toFIG.4Bdepicting an AWG apparatus comprising yet another feature for defrosting the frost build-up on the evaporator according to the invention. The AWG apparatus450shares most components having an identical arrangement as the AWG apparatuses100,200and300depicted inFIGS.1,2and3, respectively. Similar components are identically.

FIG.4Bdescribes another embodiment of a reversing valve452connected between refrigerant lines10,16,454and456.

When reversing valve452is not activated, the refrigerant can flow as described in apparatus100,200and300. Line454allowing the refrigerant to flow from line10toward the condenser4and line456allowing the refrigerant to flow from the evaporator toward line16.

When reversing valve is activated, the refrigerant from the condenser4is diverted through line454toward line16and from line16toward the compressor suction line17. Moreover, the compressed hot refrigerant gas exits the compressor and after flowing in line10is diverted toward the evaporator8through line456. This reversing action actually reverses the roles of the evaporator and the condenser. For sake of simplicity of the explanation, the names of elements4and8will remain “condenser” and “evaporator” accordingly, even after the reversing valve452is activated and the evaporator8is acting as a condenser and vice versa. The refrigerant also flows in the opposite direction in the rest of the refrigeration system in lines12,14and15and in elements6and18. The evaporator8heats, and the condenser4cools, which allows the frost on the evaporator8to melt rapidly from its fins. When the defrost procedure completes, the control unit can de-operate the reversing valve452and the roles of the evaporator and the condenser return as they were before the operation.

FIG.4Bfurther contains unidirectional valve460. When the pressure in line16is greater than the pressure in line10, the unidirectional valve460opens, and allows refrigerant to flow through itself from line16to line10and to equalize the pressure. On the contrary, when the pressure in line10is greater than the pressure in line16, the unidirectional valve closes, blocks the refrigerant to flow through itself and thus not allowing equalizing the pressure. In summary, the unidirectional valve460keeps the suction pressure of compressor2always lower than the discharge pressure of the compressor2. For example, in the transient period, after reversing valve452turns to be activated, high condenser pressure can be discharge toward the evaporator8, causing the refrigerant to flow parallel to the compressor2and thus increasing the refrigerant flow rate. After the transient period, when the compressor2discharge pressure is higher than the suction pressure, the unidirectional valve is automatically closed. The action of the unidirectional valve460repeats also in the transient period right after the reversing valve turns to be not activated.

Unidirectional valve470can be added to apparatus100or200containing a reversing valve as described. It keeps from high-pressure refrigerant in line16(especially in transient states of reversing valve) to flow toward line22. If the pressure in line22is greater than the pressure in line17, the unidirectional valve470opens and allows refrigerant to flow through itself and to equalize the pressure. On the contrary, when the pressure in line17is greater than the pressure in line22, the unidirectional valve470closes, blocks the refrigerant to flow through itself and thus not allowing equalizing the pressure.

In some embodiments, just one of the unidirectional valves460,470is used. In some embodiments, the locations and connection points of the reversing valve452, and/or the unidirectional valves460and470are different from the described above but perform similar action.

Method for Operating an AWG Having a Water Cooling System and/or a Defrosting System

In another aspect, the invention provides a method for operating the stored water cooling system and/or the defrosting system according to the invention.

FIGS.5-8describe the apparatus logic of operation. It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of the logic explanation, steps and condition steps shown in the figures describe just the basic logic to operate the system. For example, other additional steps and conditioning steps may refer to user interface, shutting down the system if the environmental temperature is too low, etc.

The logic may be programed upon the controller unit, more than one controller unit can be implemented using electric board, in hydraulic means or any appropriate manner A person skilled in the art would now how to alter the described logic and to fulfil those additions and alternations, and will know how to fulfill the logic in the control unit or in equivalent hardware.

Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

The logic describes5modes of operation that in some embodiments (such as the one depicted inFIG.5) only one of them can occur simultaneously:

Shut Down Mode

a. In which the compressor is closed, the blower is off and neither water condensation nor water cooling occurs.
Water Cooling Modea. In which the water condensation ceases (or continues to be idle if the water components of the AWG that condense water were not operating prior to switching to the water cooling mode), and the water in the tank is cooled down by operating water cooling system of the AWG. In apparatuses100and200for example, it means that compressor2is operated, blower30is operated, and bi-directional valve18diverts the refrigerant from line12toward line20.b. In apparatus300for example, compressor2is operated, blower30is operated (if a shutter between the evaporator and the condenser exists, it opens as well) and on-off valve94allows water from the tank to spill over the evaporator through line92. If defrost system400exists in the apparatus, valve402should remain closed. If defrost system450exists in the apparatus, valve452should remain in it default position (non-reversing).
Water Production Mode

In which the water-cooling ceases and water condensation process starts by operating the components of the AWG that are involved in condensation of water. In apparatuses100and200for example, it means that compressor is operated, blower is operated, and bi-directional valve18divert the refrigerant from line12toward line14.a. In apparatus300for example, compressor is operated, blower is operated (if a shutter between the evaporator and the condenser exists, it closes) and on-off valve94does not allow water from the tank to spill over the evaporator.b. If defrost mechanism such as400exist in the apparatus, valve402should remain closed. If defrost mechanism such as450exist in the apparatus, valve452should remain in it default position (non-reversing).
Ice Production Mode

In which the water-cooling is idle and water condensation process occurs but unlike in the water-production mode, the condensed water freezes on the evaporator due to the evaporator's sub-zero temperature. The operation of elements are similar to the described in the WATER PRODUCTION mode above, but this time, ice building is monitored by at least one timer and/or by measuring the evaporator temperature.

Defrost MODE

a. In which the ice production ceases and the frost on the evaporator is being melted by operating a defrost system. In apparatuses such as100-300, not comprising mechanism450, melting the ice can be done by stopping the compressor, closing shutter (if exist as in apparatus300), and operating the blower in order to blow fresh air to melt the frost. If the apparatus comprises defrost mechanism such as400, the valve402should be open at least in the beginning of the process.b. In apparatuses such as100-300, comprising mechanism450, it can be done by allowing the compressor to operate, preferably opening shutter (if exist in apparatus300), operate the reversing valve452and operating the blower in order to heat the condenser (which actually functions as an evaporator)

Reference is now made toFIG.5depicting the logic in AWG apparatus comprising feature for cooling the stored water, such as apparatus100,200or300, containing or not containing addition400or450where appropriate. The logic is described in algorithm500.

In initial step502, the apparatus starts to operate. In this step, the mode is set to be SHUT DOWN mode, and the apparatus components act as described in the SHUT DOWN mode above.

Conditioning step504, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the water tank should be cooled. The decision is made primarily by detecting the water temperature by a sensor but in order to decide whether to cool the water in the tank, it must contain sufficient water amount. The amount level can be measured by level sensor, differential pressure sensor, volumetric sensor or any other suitable sensor being in communication with the control unit. If water exists in the tank and its temperature as measured by a thermometer being in communication with the control unit is too high (i.e.—above a predetermined value that can be defined by the factory or by the user), the water in the tank needs to be cooled and the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it's NO.

In step506, the mode is set to be WATER-COOLING mode, and the apparatus components acts as described in the WATER-COOLING mode above.

Conditioning step508, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the cooling of the water in the tank should stop. The decision is made primary according to an ad-hoc detected water temperature but it is also derived from its ad-hoc detected water level. If water temperature in the tank at or below a predefined temperature considered as “cold” (i.e. at or below a predetermined threshold determined by the factory) or the water level in the tank is too low (i.e. at or below a predetermined threshold determined by the factory), the water cooling should stop and the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it is NO.

Conditioning step510, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the water tank is full. The amount level can be measured by level sensor, differential pressure sensor, volumetric sensor or any other suitable sensor being in communication with the control unit. If water tank reaches the maximal amount (described here as full), the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it is NO.

In step514, the mode is set to be WATER-PRODUCTION mode, and the apparatus components acts as described in the WATER-PRODUCTION mode above.

Conditioning step516, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the WATER-PRODUCTION mode should be replaced with ICE PRODUCTION mode. In order to do so, the controller measures the evaporator temperature by using temperature sensors in the vicinity of the evaporator. If the temperature is bellow first set point (for example, −2° C. or water freezing point) for a certain duration (for example, 1 minute) the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it's NO.

In step518, the mode is set to be ICE-PRODUCTION mode, and the apparatus components acts as described in the ICE-PRODUCTION mode above.

Conditioning step520, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the ICE PRODUCTION mode should terminate. In order to do so, the controller estimates the amount of frost (ice) built upon the evaporator. For example, to integrate the difference between the environmental dew point and the evaporator temperature and multiply it by the airflow rate and by a coefficient. Another example is to measure the differential pressure of the airflow flowing over the evaporator. Other methods to estimate degree of ice build available in the art may also be implemented. If the estimated amount of ice is higher than a pre-defined level or if the ICE-PRODUCTION duration reaches certain level, the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it's NO.

In step522, the mode is set to be DEFROST mode, and the apparatus' components act as described in the DEFROST mode above.

Conditioning step524, describes a check out determining whether or not the ice in the evaporator has defrosted. To determine that, the control may measure the evaporator temperature, may measure the differential pressure of the airflow over the evaporator, measure a drop in the rate of melted water added to the water sump or the rate of water dropping from the evaporator (for example by a micro-camera), or utilize any other available technique which indicates the existence of ice. If the temperature or the differential pressure reaches a pre-determined value, the result of the condition is YES, otherwise, it's NO.

Reference is now made toFIG.6depicting an operation logic600which includes some additions to the logic described in500. Steps and conditioning steps that are numbered the same as described inFIG.5, perform the same functionality. Unlike the logic500, logic600enables the apparatus to cease the ICE PRODUCTION and to cool water even when ICE PRODUCTION does not conclude.

Conditioning step602performs as conditioning step504. Conditioning step606performs as conditioning format508, and step610performs as506. Steps504,508,506are described above.

Algorithm700

FIG.7describes a logic of operation of the collection pump46in the apparatus.

In initial step702, the logic starts. In this step, the collection pump46is off.

Conditioning step704, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the collection pump46should be operated. If the collection pump46is not operating, its operation condition should be the water level in the sump42. If the water level in the sump is above a predetermined level, then the decision is YES, otherwise the decision is NO. If the pump is operated, its stopping condition should be either time or low water level in the sump. The sump level(s) can be measures by level sensor, differential pressure sensor, volumetric sensor or any other suitable sensor. If the pump need to be operated, the decision is YES, otherwise, is NO.

In step706, the collection pump is operated by the control.

In step708the collection pump is not operated.

Algorithm710

FIG.7also describes the logic of operation of the main pump52.1in the apparatus.

In initial step712, the logic starts. In this step, the main pump52.1is off.

Conditioning step714, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the main pump52.1should be operated. The pump52.1should be operated in at least one of the following situations:

The user demands water to be dispensed (push button) and there is enough water in the water tank62(for example—right above the tank exit line or when reaching a predetermined level as sensed by a sensor).

According to a predetermined circulation period (for example—every half hour, circulate for 5 minutes)

During WATER-COOLING mode in apparatus200or even in100(to increase heat transfer coefficient)

If the pump52.1needs to be operated, the decision is YES, otherwise, is NO.

In step716, the main pump52.1is operated by the control.

In step718the main pump52.1is not operated.

Algorithm720

FIG.7also describes the logic of operation the dispensing valve58in the apparatus.

In initial step722, the logic starts. In this step, the dispensing valve58is off.

Conditioning step724, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the dispensing valve at the end of dispensing line60should be operated. The operation of the valve depends whether the user demands water to be dispensed (push button) and whether there is enough water in the water tank (for example—right above the tank exit line or when reaching a predetermined level as sensed by a sensor). If the valve needs to be operated, the decision is YES, otherwise, is NO.

In step726, the dispensing valve58is operated by the control.

In step728the dispensing valve is not operated.

Algorithm800

FIG.8describes the logic of operation the water-cooling valve18in apparatuses100,200and94in apparatus300.

In initial step802, the logic starts. In this step, the water cooling valve is off.

Conditioning step804, describes a check out to conclude whether or not the water-cooling valve should be operated depending on whether the water in the water tank needs to be cooled. The conditioning step804has the same logic as conditioning step504. The water-cooling valve should be operated during the WATER-COOLING mode. If the valve needs to be operated, the decision is YES, otherwise, is NO.

In step806, the water-cooling valve is operated by the control.

In step808the water-cooling valve is not operated.