US20260009545A1

US20260009545A1 - Dual-function water heating and cooling system and method thereof

Info

Publication number: US20260009545A1
Application number: US19/324,411
Authority: US
Inventors: Pulkit Ahuja
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2024-09-11
Filing date: 2025-09-10
Publication date: 2026-01-08

Abstract

A dual-function water conditioning system and method thereof are disclosed that heat or cool water on demand to overcome seasonal discomfort. The system includes a thermally insulated water conditioning chamber coupled to a heating mechanism and a refrigeration-based cooling mechanism, governed by an electronic controller. A user interface or remote application allows selection of a target temperature, and the controller regulates conditioning to deliver water through outlet while being integrable with existing pipelines without loss of pressure. The invention further relates to intelligent water mixing and control systems that adapt faucet operation to seasonal variations in supply temperature, thereby preventing user confusion and ensuring year-round comfort. Additional features include a detachable phase change material (PCM) cooling attachment (130), IoT connectivity, adaptive learning, and safety measures such as thermostatic mixing, leak detection, and pressure/vacuum relief for efficient and hygienic operation.

Description

FIELD OF THE EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to the field of domestic and commercial water heating and cooling appliances. More particularly, it pertains to a dual-function water conditioning system configured to deliver water at controlled temperatures through standard outlets such as showers and faucets, while being integrable with existing pipelines without loss of pressure. The invention further relates to intelligent water mixing and control systems that adapt faucet operation to seasonal variations in supply temperature, thereby preventing user confusion and ensuring year-round comfort.

BACKGROUND OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Households often experience discomfort due to water temperature extremes across different seasons. During summer, water stored in rooftop tanks becomes excessively hot, making cold showers or baths unpleasant until time-consuming pre-cooling measures are taken. Common makeshift solutions include storing water overnight in buckets to allow cooling thereof, adding ice to bathing water, or scheduling showering at off-peak times. Such workarounds are inconvenient, inconsistent, cumbersome, and impractical for routine use.
Conversely, during winter months, tap water is too cold for comfort, necessitating heating. Traditional electric geysers address winter heating but unable to provide cooling in summer. Residents currently lack a continuous, on-demand source of comfortably cold water for bathing during hot weather and must endure either very hot supply or laborious cooling methods. There is thus a clear need for an appliance that can supply temperature-controlled water year-round, delivering both hot and cold water as desired, while working with standard home plumbing and ensuring there is no loss of water pressure like in the case of over tap attachments or standard drinking water coolers. Additionally, with the rise of smart home technology, consumers expect modern appliances to adapt to usage patterns, conserve energy, and ensure safety.
Several attempts have been made to address the aforementioned problems, but each thereof has many shortcomings: For example, Ice-based shower attachments provide temporary cooling by requiring the user to manually insert ice into a bulky showerhead. While effective for a short period, this approach is highly inconvenient for daily use, since ice must be replenished each time. Furthermore, the attachment reduces water pressure and flow, and the additional weight (due to bulky showerhead) raises safety concerns if the unit detaches during use.
Drinking water dispensers/coolers are another category that delivers both hot and cold water. However, such appliances are configured only for beverages. Such dispensers typically include two small tanks: one connected to an electric resistive heater to heat water, and the other connected to a compressor-based refrigeration coil (similar to a small refrigerator) to cool water. The tanks are supplied either from an inverted 20-litre water canister placed on top of the unit or from a small reservoir filled manually. Water flows by gravity or a small pump into the tanks, and the appliance dispenses water through low-flow taps or nozzles. The problem with such a mechanism is threefold. First, because the hot and cold tanks are very small (usually 1-2 litres each), and only suitable for intermittent beverage dispensing. Thus, such dispensers are unable to handle the high, continuous flow rates needed for showers or faucets. Second, the reliance on bottled canisters or small reservoirs means the dispensers are unable to get directly connected to household pipelines, resulting in limited pressure and frequent interruptions when the canister empties. Third, the temperature control is very coarse: the water is heated or cooled to preset tank conditions, with no fine adjustment possible by the user. Thus, dispensers are unsuitable for bathing applications where a steady, pipeline-level supply of water at a precise temperature is required.
Conventional electric geysers consist of a storage tank (often 10-25 litres) that is thermally insulated and fitted with an electric resistive heating element immersed in the water. A thermostat regulates the element, switching thereto ON when the water falls below the setpoint and OFF when the target temperature is reached. The heated water is stored and drawn out through household pipelines when needed. While such a mechanism reliably provides hot water, however it is single-function only. There is no provision for active cooling: the water may only be heated or remain at ambient temperature. In hot climates, when incoming water is already very warm due to rooftop storage, the geyser mechanism is unable to reduce temperature of the very warm water. Moreover, the heating element may sometimes overheat localized areas of the tank, leading to limescale deposits on the element and reduced efficiency. Water temperatures may also overshoot the safe range, posing scalding risks if thermostatic mixing is not employed. Hence, while effective in winter, conventional geysers do not address summer discomfort and have maintenance issues due to scale formation.
Heat-pump water heaters operate on the principle of a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. A compressor circulates refrigerant through an evaporator coil that absorbs heat from the ambient air and a condenser coil that transfers the heat into the water storage tank. Such a mechanism is more energy-efficient than resistive heating, as it “moves” heat instead of directly generating it. Some conventional arts using such a mechanism allow the pump to select between heat sources for greater efficiency. The limitation of such mechanism is that it is engineered purely for heating efficiency, not for dual heating-and-cooling. Even though the refrigeration cycle in theory may be reversed to absorb heat from the water (cooling it), commercial products do not implement such a feature. The systems are bulkier, noisier, and more expensive than conventional geysers, making them less attractive for ordinary households. Additionally, since the evaporator draws heat from the surrounding air, efficiency drops sharply in colder environments, requiring auxiliary resistive heating. Therefore, heat-pump water heaters, while efficient heaters, fail to provide an integrated year-round solution and fail to meet the need for chilled bathing water in hot climates.
In recent years, smart geysers with IoT connectivity developed, offering mobile app control, remote on/off switching, and scheduling functions. While such features improve convenience, however they are limited to heating only. Existing smart geyser is unable to cool water or learn dual-function usage patterns. Also “intelligence” thereof is restricted to time-based control of heating operations, which is only a partial step forward.
Finally, households often resort to improvised cooling methods, such as hanging a sieve filled with ice below the showerhead or adding ice into storage buckets. Such solutions are unsafe, cumbersome, and incapable of delivering continuous supply under normal household pressure. External chillers, sometimes adapted for temporary use, also fail to integrate with domestic plumbing and are inviable for ordinary bathrooms.
Another limitation arises at the very point of use, namely the faucet or mixing tap. In most bathrooms and kitchens, water is controlled through a single lever or dual-knob arrangement, where one side corresponds to hot water and the other to cold. While this mechanism is straightforward in principle, users often become confused about which way to turn the knob or lever across different seasons. For instance, in winter, turning towards the “hot” side provides the desired comfort, but in summer the same action may worsen discomfort because the incoming supply itself is already overheated due to rooftop storage, and the “hot” side only adds further heating. On the other hand, turning towards the “cold” side in winter delivers unpleasantly cold water, which users typically wish to avoid. Thus, the intuitive expectation of “hot side equals comfort” or “cold side equals relief” reverses from one season to another, forcing users into trial-and-error adjustments. This leads not only to confusion and wasted water during each use but also to sudden unpleasant experiences, such as a scalding burst in summer or a freezing shock in winter. Existing faucets and mixing taps offer no intelligence or seasonal adaptation to resolve this reversal problem.
Therefore, there exists a need to solve the aforementioned issues. There is therefore a need for developing a household appliance that is able to provide both hot and cold water on demand, maintain a continuous supply at adequate pressure through standard pipelines, and allow users to select and control precise water temperatures.

Objective of the Embodiments

The principal objective of the present disclosure is to provide a dual-function water conditioning system that is capable of both heating and cooling water on demand for domestic or commercial use.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide the system that ensures a continuous supply of hot or cold water directly from household or industrial pipelines, with sufficient storage capacity, while also allowing the user to set and control the exact output temperature.
Another object of the invention to provide the system that maintains desired outlet water temperature without loss of flow pressure, thereby ensuring user comfort throughout the year.
Another object of the invention to provide the system (100) incorporating a smart electronic controller (108) configured with multiple functional modules (108A-1080) for enabling user input, sensing of temperature and pressure, intelligent decision-making, adaptive learning, safety monitoring, and remote connectivity.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide the system that prolongs the operational life of the water conditioning chamber by incorporating protective features against scale, corrosion, and microbial growth.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide enhanced safety and hygiene features, including thermostatic mixing, sanitization cycles, leak detection, automatic shut-off, and pressure/vacuum relief mechanisms.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide that system that ensures direct pipeline compatibility and plumbing convenience, unlike conventional water dispensers that rely on external canisters or low-pressure outlets.
Additional object of the invention to improve energy efficiency by employing adaptive learning, weather-responsive operation, energy optimization modules, and high-performance thermal insulation.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide the system that delivers clean, hygienic, and mineral-rich conditioned water, ensuring health and wellness benefits to the user.
Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a modular design enabling supplemental point-of-use cooling or heating attachments, such as a detachable PCM-based cooling unit, for enhancing versatility.
Another object of the present disclosure to enable remote control and monitoring through IoT-based wired or wireless communication interfaces, thereby allowing convenient operation and system diagnostics.
Another object of the present disclosure to provide a method for conditioning water that enables both heating and cooling on demand in a single integrated process.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method that ensures dispensing of water at a user-selected or automatically determined temperature without loss of flow pressure.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method that employs intelligent control steps, including sensing of inlet, chamber, and outlet conditions, adaptive decision-making, and execution of safety checks prior to dispensing water.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method that incorporates adaptive learning to analyze patterns of water usage and to anticipate demand by pre-heating or pre-cooling water.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method that improves hygiene and safety by executing periodic sanitization cycles, leak detection routines, and automatic shut-off in case of abnormal operating conditions.
Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a method that optimizes energy consumption by scheduling or modulating heating and cooling operations in response to sensed parameters, external signals, or user-defined preferences.

SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In one aspect, the invention discloses a dual-function water conditioning system (100) that is capable of selectively heating or cooling water on demand. The system (100) includes a thermally insulated water conditioning chamber (102) operatively coupled to a heating mechanism (110) and a cooling mechanism (112), the operation of which is governed by an intelligent electronic controller (108). A user interface element (106) or remote application allows a user to select a desired temperature, and conditioned water is dispensed through outlet (130) while being integrable with existing pipelines without loss of pressure. Intelligent mixing and control features further adapt faucet operation to seasonal variations in supply temperature, thereby ensuring comfort and preventing user confusion.
In another aspect, the invention provides a method (200) for conditioning water using the system (100). The method (200) comprises receiving user input or automatically determining a dispensing temperature, sensing inlet, chamber, and outlet parameters, and selectively activating the heating mechanism (110) or the cooling mechanism (112) to achieve the target temperature. The method (200) further includes safety monitoring, adaptive learning of usage patterns, and energy optimization to ensure efficient and hygienic operation.
In yet another aspect, the invention provides detachable accessories configured to expand the functionality of the system (100). These include a detachable cooling attachment (134) containing a phase change material (PCM) or thermal storage medium for delivering supplemental cold water for limited durations and being redeployable through reconditioning by the main system. Such modular accessories enhance user comfort, versatility, and practical applications beyond conventional water heating or cooling appliances.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Other objects, features, and advantages of the embodiment will be apparent from the following description when read with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote corresponding parts throughout the several views:

Referring to FIG. 1A, illustrates a schematic front view of a dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure;

Referring to FIG. 1B, illustrates a perspective view of the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure;

Referring to FIG. 1C, illustrates an internal view of one embodiment of the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure;

Referring to FIG. 1D, illustrates an internal view of another exemplary embodiment of the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure;

Referring to FIG. 1E, illustrates a block representation of modules of an electronic controller (108) of the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure; and

Referring to FIG. 2 , illustrates a flowchart depicting steps of a method (200) of the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an illustrated embodiment of a present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments herein and the various features and advantageous details thereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the following description. Descriptions of well-known components and processing techniques are omitted so as to not unnecessarily obscure the embodiments herein.
The examples used herein are intended merely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the embodiments herein may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in the art to practice the embodiments herein. Accordingly, the examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments herein.
FIG. 1A illustrates a schematic view of a dual water heating and cooling system (100). The system (100) includes a housing that may be mounted on a wall or placed on the floor, with plumbing connections to a water supply line (inlet) and to hot/cold water distribution (outlet). The system (100) may be embodied for various sectors such as but not limited to household, hotels, restaurants, offices, commercial, residential, shopping complexes, malls, resorts, social places, and so on. The system (100) is configured to handle standard water pressure and flow rates, so that using the conditioned water feels the same as using normal tap water in terms of pressure.
As shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, the housing includes a water conditioning chamber (102). The term “water conditioning chamber” as used herein refers to a structural enclosure or passage that receives water from a supply source and in which the water is subjected to thermal conditioning. The chamber (102) may be embodied as: a storage tank capable of holding a volume of water for heating or cooling prior to delivery, or a flow-through heat-exchange chamber in which water passes without substantial storage while undergoing heating or cooling, or any equivalent structure that allows the controlled alteration of water temperature through interaction with heating and/or cooling mechanisms. The water conditioning chamber (102) is not limited by shape, volume, or material, and may be integrated directly into a household water pipeline network.
The capacity of the water conditioning chamber (102) may vary (for example, models with 5 liters up to 50+ liters), depending on user requirements, and in some configurations the system (100) may operate with a very small reservoir or coil to act as a mostly tankless, on-demand heater/chiller.
The water conditioning chamber (102) receives water from the water supply through the inlet (128). Water entering through the inlet (128), gets collected in the water conditioning chamber (102) and undergoes conditioning to adjust temperature thereof as per user requirements. In an embodiment as shown in FIG. 1C, the water conditioning chamber (102) includes a single coil (118). The single coil (118) is configured to undergo either heating mechanism (110) or cooling mechanism (112) in response to the user-selected temperature so as to output water at the pre-defined temperature. In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 1D, the water conditioning chamber (102) includes two coils (118, 120). Both the coils (118, 120) are arranged in parallel to each other. Exemplary coil (118) may be subjected to heating mechanism (110) and another exemplary coil (120) subjected to cooling mechanism (112) in response to the user-selected temperature so as to output water at the desired temperature.
The system (100) involves the heating mechanism (110) to heat water in the water conditioning chamber (102) when hot water is required for various purposes known in the art. In one embodiment, an electric heating element such as a resistive heating coil is wrapped around or immersed in the water conditioning chamber (102). The water conditioning chamber (102) may be referred in short as chamber (102) hereinafter. When activated by an electric controller (108), the element raises the water temperature to the user's setpoint. The heating element may be a low-watt-density type to avoid scorching and minimize scale, and may be coated with a protective layer (ceramic or polymer) to resist mineral buildup and corrosion. In another embodiment, or additionally, the system (100) may include a heat pump heating cycle. For example, a refrigerant-based heat pump circuit with a compressor and heat exchangers may be configured in a reversible mode. In heating mode, a condenser coil of the refrigerant circuit is placed in thermal contact with the water in the chamber (102), transferring heat into the water. The refrigerant absorbs ambient heat (e.g., from air around the unit, or from an external source like waste heat) and pumps it into the water, heating it more efficiently than resistive heating. Such a heat pump approach may achieve 2-4 times higher energy efficiency (COP) than a traditional heater. The system (100) may use an environmentally friendly refrigerant (such as R-290 propane or R-134a alternative) in the compressor cycle for compliance with global regulations. To facilitate dual functionality, a four-way reversing valve (180) may be included in the refrigerant circuit to switch between heating mode and cooling mode, as described below. In scenarios where faster heating is needed or for redundancy, both the resistive heater and the heat pump may operate together. The heating operation is governed by sensor feedback-a temperature sensor (104) inside the chamber (102) monitors the water temperature, and once the desired temperature is reached, the controller (108) deactivates the heating to prevent overheating. For safety, a mechanical thermostat or thermal fuse may act as backup to cut power if temperature accidentally exceeds a safe limit.
In another embodiment, the heating mechanism (110) includes an induction coil disposed around or beneath the chamber (102). When energized, the induction coil generates an alternating magnetic field that induces eddy currents within a ferromagnetic portion of the chamber (102) or within an intermediary ferromagnetic liner. The resultant resistive heating effect efficiently transfers thermal energy to the water. Induction heating provides advantages including rapid response time, precise temperature control, and higher energy efficiency as compared to traditional resistive elements.
In another embodiment, the heating mechanism (110) includes a gas burner positioned in thermal communication with the chamber (102). The gas burner may operate using natural gas, LPG, or other combustible fuel. Combustion gases may be directed across a heat exchange surface in contact with the chamber (102) or a heating coil (118) disposed therein. The gas burner configuration enables rapid heating of water in locations where gaseous fuel is more economical or readily available, and may include safety features such as flame detection sensors, automatic shut-off valves, and exhaust venting arrangements.
For cooling water, the system (100) employs an active cooling mechanism (112). In a preferred embodiment, the same refrigerant compressor circuit described above is used but in cooling mode. When the user requests cold water (e.g., for a summer shower), the controller (108) activates the compressor and switches the reversing valve (180) so that the evaporator coil or chiller heat exchanger is in thermal contact with the water in the chamber (102). In this mode, the refrigerant evaporator absorbs heat from the water, thereby chilling it, and the compressor dumps this heat to an external condenser that releases heat to the ambient air (e.g., outside the housing). The cycle continues until the water in the chamber (102) reaches the target cold temperature (as detected by sensor 30), at which point the compressor is cycled off. Such a configuration essentially turns the unit into a miniature chiller or air-conditioning unit for water. By using a reversible refrigeration cycle, the system (100) efficiently provides both cooling and heating with a single integrated system of compressor and coils, which is cost-effective and compact compared to having separate dedicated heater and cooler components. In alternative embodiment, the cooling function may be achieved with other technologies—for instance, thermoelectric coolers (Peltier modules) attached to the water line for fine control, or an absorption cooling cycle using refrigerant/adsorbent—however, a compressor-based vapor-compression system is preferred for its efficiency with larger volumes of water.
In one embodiment, the cooling mechanism (112) may be configured as a hybrid arrangement, wherein a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle is combined with a thermoelectric module or a PCM unit. The refrigeration cycle provides primary cooling capacity, while the thermoelectric module or PCM unit delivers supplemental or rapid-response cooling for short-term demand. Such a hybrid configuration allows optimization of energy efficiency while maintaining user comfort during peak load conditions.
In another embodiment, the cooling mechanism (112) incorporates an evaporative cooling stage, in which water or air evaporation is used as a heat rejection medium for the refrigerant condenser or thermoelectric hot side. This reduces compressor work and enhances cooling efficiency in dry climate conditions.
In yet another embodiment, the cooling mechanism (112) may be thermally coupled to a renewable energy source such as a geothermal loop or a solar-assisted absorption/adsorption chiller. For instance, a solar thermal panel can regenerate an absorption cooling cycle during the day, providing sustainable chilled water supply without fully relying on grid electricity.
In one embodiment, the cooling mechanism (112) includes a detachable cartridge or module that can be installed into or removed from the main system housing (100). Such a cartridge may contain a sealed refrigeration unit, thermoelectric plates, or PCM packs. The modularity facilitates replacement, upgrades, or customization, allowing the same system (100) to function as a heating-only, cooling-only, or dual-function appliance depending on user preference.
In another embodiment, the cooling mechanism (112) forms part of a reversible heat pump system controlled by a four-way valve (26). In heating mode, the refrigerant cycle directs thermal energy into the water conditioning chamber (102). In cooling mode, the valve reverses the refrigerant flow, routing the evaporator coil to absorb heat from the water chamber (102) and reject it externally. This configuration minimizes hardware redundancy, as the same compressor, coils, and refrigerant loop serve both heating and cooling operations.
In an embodiment, the water conditioning chamber (102) is thermally insulated by an insulating layer with a high-performance insulation material selected from vacuum-insulated panels and aerogel insulation, to minimize heat loss and heat gain. Such an advanced insulation maintains water temperature for long durations with minimal energy input, improving efficiency over conventional foam insulation. In another embodiment, the water conditioning chamber (102) may be made of a corrosion-resistant material including such as but not limited to stainless steel or polymer-lined metal. In another embodiment, interior surfaces of the water conditioning chamber (102) and water flow pathways are composed of or coated with antimicrobial and scale-resistant materials. In some embodiments, the system (100) may include a sacrificial anode or an active anti-corrosion anode to protect against corrosion of the water conditioning chamber (102).
As shown in FIGS. 1A-1D, the system (100) includes an electric controller (108) that includes a microprocessor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions in a memory, the microprocessor being operative to execute the instructions and thereby control a plurality of modules. The microprocessor-based controller (108) manages all functions of the system (100). The controller (108) is connected to multiple sensors including such as but not limited to water temperature sensors (104) in the chamber (102) and at the outlet (130), a pressure sensor positioned within the chamber (102) or outlet line to detect both overpressure and vacuum conditions, flow sensors to detect water usage or dry-out conditions, and moisture-based leak detection moisture sensors at the base of the unit or at plumbing junctions. Such sensors provide continuous feedback to the controller, which in turn regulates actuators such as: the compressor clutch or motor, the heating element power relay, pump control, motorized valves (such as the mixing valve and a shut-off solenoid at the inlet, and indicator displays or LEDs. The control logic maintains the water in the chamber (102) at the target temperature by cycling the heater or cooler, and coordinates the detachable attachment cooling cycles.
The controller (108) is a microprocessor-based intelligent control system operatively coupled with various sensors, actuators, and interface elements. To perform comprehensive operation, the controller (108) is configured into a plurality of modules, each configured to execute distinct yet interdependent functions as described below.
The user input module (108A) receives direct user commands through at least one user interface element (106). The interface element (106) may include such as but not limited to a touchscreen display, physical buttons, a rotatable control knob, a rotatable tap actuated towards left or right, a remote client device or a mobile application linked via a communication module (108F). Through the user input module (108A), the user may input a predefined dispensing temperature, select operational modes, or configure schedules. The module (108A) ensures that user-preferred settings are prioritized and stored in memory for repeatable use. In an embodiment, the user may specify specific temperature of water that is desired on a display which may be keypad or touchscreen or dial-pad or remotely or through voice or through any other means of human-machine interface or robot/AI-machine interface known in the art. The user may also provide input by rotating a tap either in left (for hot by default) or in the right (for cold). In some embodiments, the user may not provide any specific input of temperature and the controller (108) may apply logic to dispense water as per weather conditions as described in detail hereinafter.
The temperature sensing module (108B) is configured to measure water temperatures at multiple points—specifically, inlet water temperature, water stored in the conditioning chamber (102), and outlet water temperature. This multi-point sensing ensures accurate monitoring and helps the controller (108) to dynamically adjust heating or cooling output, thereby preventing undershooting or overshooting of the target temperature.
The pressure sensing module (108C) continuously monitors the water pressure within the system (100). It ensures that the conditioning chamber (102) maintains safe pressure limits, while also enabling integration with household or commercial pipeline networks without loss of pressure. In conjunction with pressure relief valves and a decision-making module (108E), this module safeguards against both overpressure and vacuum conditions.
The weather monitoring module (108D) acquires ambient and seasonal environmental data through embedded temperature/humidity sensors or via external weather feeds accessed through the communication module (108F). When a user has not specified a target dispensing temperature, the module (108D) allows the controller (108) to automatically select a suitable default temperature (e.g., warmer water in winter, cooler in summer), thereby improving comfort and reducing manual intervention.
The decision-making module (108E) functions as the central logic layer, analyzing input from the sensing modules (108B, 108C, 108D), user preferences from the user input module (108A), and operational context. Based on this analysis, it activates either the heating mechanism (110) or the cooling mechanism (112) or dispense normal water through a straight through passway (114) running between the inlet and the outlet. The straight through passway (114) selectively dispenses unconditioned water directly to the outlet without passing through the conditioning chamber (102). the straight through passway (114) is operatively controlled by a valve (116) actuated by the electronic controller (108) or by a manual selection mechanism, thereby enabling user selection between dispensing conditioned water and unconditioned water.
Looping back to the module (108E), The decision-making module (108E) accounts for safety, energy optimization, and user-defined priorities, ensuring reliable delivery of conditioned water.
The communication module (108F) provides connectivity for remote monitoring and control. It may employ wired protocols (Ethernet, RS-485) or wireless standards such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, or LoRa. Through this module, users can control the system via mobile apps, web dashboards, or voice assistants. The module (108F) further supports cloud integration for remote diagnostics, software updates, and data analytics.
The adaptive learning module (108G) leverages computational and machine-learning techniques to analyze historical patterns of hot and cold water usage. By detecting time-based habits (e.g., morning showers, evening cooling cycles), the module (108G) anticipates demand and initiates pre-heating or pre-cooling accordingly. Such a predictive approach minimizes user wait time while conserving energy by reducing idle operation. For Instance, learning that the household typically uses hot water at 7 AM and cooling at 10 PM, the system (100) automatically pre-heats the water before 7 AM and pre-chill before 10 PM, ensuring immediate availability without manual intervention. Such a predictive control may also conserve energy by not maintaining hot water at full temperature during long idle periods, unless it anticipates a need. Over time, the system (100) refines its schedule, which may also adapt seasonally (e.g., in summer it may focus more on cooling readiness). Users may always override or manually adjust settings, but this “learning” feature adds convenience and efficiency automatically.
Additionally, the module (108G) provides rich analytics and control modes. Users may view real-time temperature and remaining hot/cold water capacity, as well as historical energy consumption for heating vs cooling. The system (100) may offer suggestions—for example, recommending a slightly lower temperature setting to save energy or indicating the optimal time to run the cooling based on ambient conditions (for instance, leverage cooler night air to chill water more efficiently). The controller (108) supports scheduling profiles and modes (e.g., a “morning boost” for rapid heating, a “vacation” mode to keep pipes just above freezing in winter, or an “eco” mode that smartly balances comfort and energy use). Such modes may be selected via the app or linked with other smart home triggers. For example, the system (100) may automatically enter into standby when security system is armed in “away” mode, or delay heavy heating until off-peak electric tariff hours.
The mode selection module (108H) permits the system (100) to operate in multiple modes: a heating mode, a cooling mode, and an energy-saving or vacation mode. Advanced scheduling allows operation to be synchronized with user-defined routines or adjusted automatically based on external inputs such as tariff signals, weather conditions, or occupancy sensors.
The pump control module (1081) manages a pump to achieve rapid delivery of conditioned water to outlets. It may activate the pump during peak usage to reduce wait time, thereby reducing water wastage. In addition, the module may initiate periodic circulation within the conditioning chamber (102) to maintain uniform temperature distribution and to prevent stagnation, thus improving hygiene.
The safety and protection module (108J) provides continuous oversight of system integrity. It monitors for conditions such as overheating, overcooling, abnormal pressure spikes, or leaks. Upon detection of unsafe conditions, the module (108J) deactivates the heating or cooling mechanism, triggers the inlet shutoff valve, and issues alerts to the user through the interface or communication module (108F). Safety is paramount in the system (100), especially given it handles both heating and cooling under intelligent control. The system (100) includes both electronic safeguards and traditional mechanical safety devices. For over-pressure protection, a pressure relief valve (PRV) is installed on the chamber (102) (as in standard water heaters) to vent water if pressure exceeds a threshold. Uniquely, because cooling water may cause volume contraction and potentially create a vacuum inside the tank, a vacuum relief valve is also provided. Such a one-way air inlet prevents the tank from imploding or drawing contaminated water backward in case of rapid cooling. All plumbing connections to the system (100) may use quick-connect fittings with auto-shutoff to minimize leaks during maintenance or if a line is accidentally ruptured.
The water quality monitoring module (108K) detects parameters such as turbidity, hardness, or total dissolved solids (TDS). Based on detected quality, the controller (108) can selectively route water through a filtration unit before conditioning. Such a module (108K) improves end-user safety, taste, and appliance longevity by reducing scaling and fouling of the heating/cooling elements.
The energy optimization module (108L) tracks the power consumption of the heating mechanism (110), cooling mechanism (112), and associated pumps. Using this data, it modulates operation cycles, shifts energy usage to off-peak hours, and suggests efficiency improvements to the user. The module (108L) can interface with smart grids or renewable energy sources for optimized demand-response management.
The energy optimization module (108L) tracks the power consumption of the heating mechanism (110), cooling mechanism (112), and associated pumps. Using this data, it modulates operation cycles, shifts energy usage to off-peak hours, and suggests efficiency improvements to the user. The module (108L) can interface with smart grids or renewable energy sources for optimized demand-response management.
The sanitization module (1080) periodically executes hygiene cycles to inhibit bacterial growth. In one embodiment, it raises the water in the conditioning chamber (102) to sterilization temperature for a predetermined duration. In another, it initiates flushing cycles with hot water or a mild cleaning agent. These automated sanitization routines improve hygiene without requiring manual intervention.
A notable aspect of the controller (108) is smart connectivity and adaptive software thereof. The system (100) is equipped with a wireless communication module (Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth), allowing thereto to pair with a smartphone application and cloud services. Through the app, users may remotely turn the system (100) ON or OFF, set the desired water temperature, schedule operating times, and receive alerts (e.g., water ready, fault detected, filter needs replacement, etc.). The system (100) may also integrate with voice-activated smart home assistants, so a user may give a voice command such as “prepare the shower at 38 degrees” and the system (100) may heat/cool the water accordingly.
Electronic sensors (temperature, pressure, flow) are constantly monitored by the controller (108). If the controller (108) detects an anomaly (for example, the tank temperature rising rapidly beyond the setpoint, indicating a possible thermostat failure or dry-fire), the controller (108) may immediately cut power to the heating element and engage cooling if needed to stabilize conditions. If the leak sensor at the bottom detects water leakage, the controller (108) closes the inlet solenoid valve to stop the water supply and shuts down the system, while sending an alert to the user's phone. This prevents flooding and damage. The system (100) is also grounded and equipped with a residual current device (ground-fault circuit interrupter) that instantly cuts off power if any electrical leakage is detected, protecting users from shock (this is especially important in wet bathroom environments). All external surfaces of the system (100) are insulated or kept at safe touch temperatures, even when the internal water is very hot, to prevent burns.
To maintain water hygiene as discussed hereinabove, the system (100) incorporates multiple measures. The interior of the chamber (102) and piping is preferably coated or lined with an antimicrobial material or smooth anti-scaling coating. For example, the chamber (102) has a glass enamel or food-grade epoxy lining, and critical water-contact parts may be impregnated with silver or copper ions to continuously inhibit microbial growth. The heating element may have a teflon or ceramic coating to resist limescale deposition, thereby maintaining efficiency over time. Furthermore, the system (100) includes a sacrificial anode rod (magnesium or aluminum) mounted in the chamber (102) to prevent corrosion of metal parts. In one embodiment, the anode is made easily replaceable via an access port, or is replaced by an electronic anti-corrosion system (impressed current anode) that the controller (108) supervises. The controller (108) may monitor status of the anode (for instance, measuring voltage drop) and notify the user when the anode needs replacement or maintenance, ensuring long tank life.
The system (100) also performs automated maintenance cycles. For example, to prevent bacterial growth (such as Legionella in warm stored water), the controller (108) periodically heats the chamber (102) to a sterilization temperature (e.g. 65° C. for 30 minutes) in a scheduled anti-legionella cycle. This may be done weekly or as needed, and if the system (100) is primarily used for cooling (thus water may sit at lukewarm temperatures), the cycle ensures any potential bacterial proliferation is sterilized. The user is informed of the cycles via the app and can configure their frequency. Additionally, the system (100) may flush a small amount of water through high-temperature or even use a brief chlorination/ozonation if equipped, though a simpler approach is thermal disinfection as described. Some embodiments may also include a UV-C sterilizer lamp at the outlet or tank, which emits ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses in the water before it exits the system (100). UV-C water purification adds an extra layer of safety especially if the system (100) is used to dispense drinking water or if water is stored for long periods. The UV lamp status is monitored by the controller (108), and the user is notified when the lamp needs replacement.
Another aspect of water quality is filtration and softening. As noted earlier, a multi-stage filter may be integrated at the water inlet (128). In addition to softening (removing hardness minerals), a sediment filter removes particulate matter and an activated carbon filter can remove chlorine or odors. This ensures that the water being heated or cooled is clean, which improves the taste/feel and also protects the internal components from sediment buildup. The filter cartridges are preferably modular and easy to replace; the system (100) tracks water volume and can alert the user when a filter change is due. A specialized filter for shower use may be included in a detachable head as well (for instance, a charcoal or vitamin-C filter to neutralize chlorine right before the water exits). By combining heating/cooling with filtration, the system (100) delivers not just comfortable water but also higher quality water for the user, which is a novel integration over standard appliances.
The internal layout of components is arranged to optimize space and minimize noise/vibration. The compressor and pump are mounted on vibration-absorbing pads or springs. The interior of the housing may have acoustic insulation to dampen sound, resulting in quiet operation suitable for indoor installation. Key components of the system (100) are configured to be modular and detachable for customization and easy servicing. For instance, the cooling mechanism (112) (which includes the compressor and associated coils) may be a removable unit. In markets or use-cases purely requiring hot water, the cooling mechanism (112) may be omitted or replaced with a dummy cover, reducing cost. Similarly, a control interface may be a detachable wireless unit-users may place thereto in a convenient location or upgrade it in the future.
In an embodiment, there may be a detachable shower arm fluidly connected to the outlet (130), having a plurality of nozzles operative to selectively dispense at least one of: steam or chilled water/ice mist. In another embodiment, a detachable therapeutic pad fluidly or thermally coupled to the conditioning chamber (102). The detachable therapeutic pad providing localized heating or cooling to a user's body for muscular recovery or therapeutic treatment. The detachable shower arm is itself a module that the user may be opted to use when they need extra cooling or extra warmth or steam. The detachable shower arm is particularly useful for quick cold showers in very hot climates or when the main unit is in an energy-saving mode and the user desires an extremely cold water burst or the user requiring a steam bath.
The detachable shower arm includes an inlet chamber that connects to the outlet of a standard shower head (or tap). The detachable shower arm is secured via a magnetic and mechanical coupling: the fixed shower head has a ferromagnetic ring and locking notches around its perimeter, while the attachment's inlet chamber has corresponding magnets and locking grooves. When brought together, the magnetic force snaps the attachment in place on the shower head, and the notches/grooves engage, creating a secure, watertight fit. This double-lock mechanism ensures the detachable shower arm may not fall off under high water pressure and prevents leakage at the junction.
FIG. 1B shows such a configuration, which is shaped as a shower head or faucet-mounted module. In another embodiment, the system (100) comprises a detachable cooling attachment (134) removably connectable to the outlet (130). The attachment (134) contains a phase change material (PCM) or thermal storage medium enclosed within a housing and arranged around a coiled water passage. When water flows through the attachment (134), heat is absorbed by the PCM, thereby lowering the water temperature before discharge and delivering supplemental cold water for a limited duration, such as the typical time span of a shower. The PCM acts as a temporary cold reservoir and continues cooling until its latent heat storage capacity is exhausted.
Water entering the attachment flows first into a coiled tube or heat exchange coil that traverses through a surrounding cooling chamber filled with a phase change material (PCM) or other cold thermal mass. The PCM is pre-frozen (or pre-cooled) to below 0° C. while the attachment (134) is docked in a charging dock. The PCM may be a specialized material with a melting point chosen around, for example, 10-20° C., so that it absorbs heat at shower temperatures without immediately melting to liquid. As hot water from the shower passes through the coil, heat is rapidly transferred from the water to the PCM in chamber (102), thereby cooling the water before it exits through the attachment's outlet holes. The outlet of the attachment (134) is configured with a perforated plate matching the shower's spray pattern so that the water flow and pressure are not noticeably reduced. The cooling attachment may significantly drop the water temperature (e.g., converting ^˜40° C. inlet water to ^˜25° C. output, depending on PCM and flow rate) and may continue to provide cooling until the latent heat storage of the PCM is exhausted. Typically, the attachment (134) may provide continuous cold water for the duration of a shower (^˜15 minutes) before it warms up. After use, the user may easily twist and detach the attachment (134) from the shower head, a rubberized outer coating that provides grip and also insulates the cold surface to prevent the user's hand from sticking to it. The attachment is then reinserted into the dock. Once docked, the system (100) may initiate a reconditioning cycle for the attachment: any residual water in the attachment is drained or blown out (some designs include a small blower that pushes warm air through the attachment to dry it), and then the chamber (102) is actively re-cooled by the system (100). The dock may use the refrigerant circuit or a thermoelectric element to refreeze the PCM in the attachment so it's ready for the next use. This detachable cooling attachment thus acts as a reusable ice-pack for water cooling. It is an important feature that allows on-demand cold water bursts without continuously running the compressor during the shower, thereby saving energy and offering flexibility.
To enable redeployable use, the attachment (134) is configured to be operatively linked back to the system (100) through a docking or coupling arrangement. In this linked state, the electronic controller (108) activates the cooling mechanism (112) or a dedicated recharge interface to recondition the PCM or thermal storage medium back to its original cooled state. Once recharged, the attachment (134) may be detached again and reused for subsequent cooling cycles. This arrangement provides a practical, reusable, and energy-efficient method of delivering bursts of cold water on demand without requiring continuous compressor operation.
The conditioned water in the chamber (102) is delivered to the user through an outlet pipe (18) which connects to the home's faucets, shower, etc. The system (100) may be installed such that it feeds either a dedicated outlet (like a particular bathroom shower) or the hot water line of a plumbing system (in which case mixing with cold mains may still be possible at the tap for intermediate temperatures). However, a unique capability of the present disclosure is precise control of output temperature directly within the unit. The user sets the desired temperature (e.g., via the app or panel in degrees Celsius), and the controller uses feedback from an outlet temperature sensor (104) to adjust mixing or heating/cooling as needed. In one embodiment, a motorized mixing valve is provided to blend hot and cold water to exactly achieve the target temperature as water exits the unit. The device (100) may either mix water from its heated tank portion and a bypass cool line, mix water from a small hot sub-tank and a small cold sub-tank in real time. This dual-chamber instant mixing system ensures that outlet temperature is consistent and under control, eliminating sudden hot/cold spikes. Such active mixing also serves as an anti-scald measure: the controller (108) not allow dangerously hot water to flow out. If the water in the hot tank is, say, 70° C., and the user set 40° C., the valve may proportionally mix in cold water (from the cold chamber or directly from mains if appropriate) to bring it to 40° C. Should any sensor detect an over-temperature condition, the system (100) may shut the heater and fully open cold mixing to cool the output. In climates where both functions may be needed concurrently at different outlets (for example, hot water in a kitchen sink and cold water in a bathroom shower), the system's internal architecture (with possibly separate hot and cold reservoirs and multiple outlet controls) may accommodate supplying two different temperature streams simultaneously, essentially acting as a small central plant for both hot and chilled water.
In an embodiment, the system (100) further includes a rechargeable power source including such as but not limited to lithium-ion battery, nickel-metal hydride cell, or a supercapacitor, operatively coupled to the electronic controller (108). The power source is configured to provide limited-duration backup energy for critical operations in the event of sudden power loss, accidental remote switch-off, or hard reset. Specifically, the rechargeable power source ensures that inlet and outlet valves, mixing mechanisms, and memory registers of the controller (108) remain functional long enough to safely complete ongoing pre-conditioning cycles or to maintain the last safe valve position, thereby preventing uncontrolled discharge of unconditioned water. The rechargeable power source may be automatically recharged during normal operation of the system (100) and may include integrated charge management circuitry to prevent overcharging, deep discharge, or thermal runaway. In some embodiments, the capacity of the rechargeable power source is sized to provide at least a few minutes of operation sufficient to complete valve actuation and state-saving operations. Optionally, the controller (108) may generate an alert through the communication module (108F) when the backup charge falls below a threshold, ensuring maintenance and reliability of the system.
A filter module for water purification may be snap-in, allowing users (especially for kitchen installations) to include advanced filtration if desired. Such a modular architecture makes the system (100) flexible: it may serve as a simple water heater, a chiller, or both, and adapt to different regional needs. It also allows for easier maintenance—e.g., the cooling module could be swapped out by a technician without replacing the whole unit.
The system (100) may be used for bathroom use (e.g., providing hot or cold water for showers and faucets), the system (100) may be extended to other applications. In one embodiment, a combined hot/cold water dispenser for kitchens is provided. This may be a compact under-sink unit that delivers near-boiling water for making tea or cleaning, as well as chilled drinking water-effectively replacing separate instant hot water devices and water coolers with one appliance. It may use the same core technology (small hot tank and cold tank, possibly with PCM for cooling) and dispense through a specialized faucet with dual channels. Another possible embodiment is a point-of-use mini-unit that attaches directly at a shower or faucet. For example, a small device that contains a high-power heating element and a PCM-based cooling cell, installed in-line with a single shower, to provide instant hot or cold water without a centralized tank. This may trade capacity for portability and may even be useful in mobile or outdoor settings. The system (100) also envisions integration with HVAC systems: for instance, using waste heat from an air conditioner's condenser to heat the water (a heat recovery loop), or using the heat pump to assist in space heating/cooling. In one scenario, the system (100) may capture heat from a running air conditioner in summer to heat water essentially for free, or conversely, when cooling water for a cold shower, the “waste” heat may be vented into the bathroom to warm the air. Such integrations illustrate the versatility of the system (100) in managing thermal energy in a home holistically.
The system (100) may be adapted to local needs. For example, a Middle East version might prioritize a larger cooling capacity to handle very high inlet water temperatures (e.g., above 35° C.) and might downsize the heating element since ambient conditions keep water fairly warm. A European variant may emphasize the heat pump heater for energy efficiency and tie into solar panels or off-peak energy use. An Indian/Asian version may focus on cost-effectiveness, using resistive heating plus a PCM cooling module without a compressor to hit a lower price point, while still offering relief during hot seasons. All such regional adaptations are based on the same inventive concept of a dual-purpose water temperature conditioning unit with smart control.
The outlet (130) may be a single outlet for dispensing either conditioned or unconditioned water. In another embodiment, the outlet (130) may be a dual-outlet arrangement comprising a first outlet for conditioned water and a second outlet for unconditioned water. Yet another embodiment is a single outlet provided with a rotatable knob or actuator that selectively directs dispensing of conditioned or unconditioned water.
Overall, the described system (100) provides an integrated, all-season solution for domestic water comfort. It combines new mechanical configurations (dual heating/cooling, PCM-enhanced attachments, modular components) with smart electronics (IoT connectivity, adaptive control, safety systems). The combination of features—e.g., a single unit that can both heat and chill water, learned predictive operation, PCM-based thermal storage, and comprehensive safety/hygiene measures—yields a high-performance device suited for modern smart homes. The following claims define various novel aspects of the invention, intended to secure broad protection for the core system and its advantageous improvements. Referring now to FIG. 2 , there is illustrated a flowchart depicting a method (200) for conditioning water using the dual-function heating and cooling system (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method (200) is executed under the supervision of the controller (108), which integrates and coordinates various functional modules of the system (100).
In one embodiment, the method (200) begins with receiving either a user-selected target temperature through the user input module (108A) and the user interface element (106), or alternatively, automatically determining a suitable dispensing temperature using the weather monitoring module (108D), which considers ambient or seasonal conditions when no explicit input is provided by the user. Once the dispensing temperature is established, the controller (108) proceeds to acquire real-time operational parameters. Specifically, the temperature sensing module (108B) detects the temperature of the inlet water, the water within the chamber (102), and the outlet water, while the pressure sensing module (108C) continuously monitors pipeline pressure to ensure seamless integration with the household water supply network without pressure drop. The system (100) may further employ the water quality monitoring module (108K) to assess at least one of turbidity, hardness, or total dissolved solids (TDS), and if required, the water is routed through a filtration unit prior to undergoing conditioning.
Based on the collected inputs, the decision-making module (108E) evaluates whether heating or cooling is necessary to achieve the target temperature. If heating is required, the heating mechanism (110), which may be realized as an induction coil, a gas burner, or a heat pump cycle, is activated. Conversely, if cooling is required, the cooling mechanism (112) is engaged, wherein a refrigerant circuit may be controlled through an exemplary and optionally embodiment of four-way valve (118) to enable rapid and efficient thermal exchange. To facilitate effective distribution of conditioned water, the pump control module (1081) activates a pump, either to circulate water within the conditioning chamber (102) for uniform conditioning or to deliver conditioned water promptly to the outlets, thereby reducing wait times and minimizing wastage. The flow control module (108M) may additionally regulate the water flow rate to ensure consistent outlet temperature under varying demand conditions.
Once the desired dispensing temperature is achieved, conditioned water is supplied to the outlet. Throughout this method (200), the safety and protection module (108J) continuously monitors for potentially hazardous conditions such as overheating, overcooling, or abnormal pressure fluctuations, and in such cases, automatically deactivates the heating or cooling mechanisms while issuing alerts to the user through the interface element (106) or remotely via the communication module (108F). The method (200) further incorporates intelligent operational layers, wherein the adaptive learning module (108G) observes historical user demand patterns to anticipate future needs, thereby initiating pre-heating or pre-cooling cycles in advance. Additionally, the energy optimization module (108L) analyzes power consumption trends and modulates system operation to reduce energy usage, for example by scheduling conditioning cycles during off-peak hours.
The method (200) also incorporates hygiene and reliability measures. Periodically, the sanitization module (1080) executes a hygiene cycle by heating the stored water in the conditioning chamber (102) to a sterilizing temperature or flushing water through the system at predetermined conditions to inhibit bacterial growth. In parallel, the self-diagnostic module (108N) performs system health checks, fault detection, and maintenance monitoring, while generating appropriate notifications such as filter replacement alerts, maintenance requirements, or system faults.
In some embodiments, execution of the method (200) may occur entirely automatically with minimal user involvement, while in other embodiments, remote execution is enabled via the communication module (108F) through a smartphone application, IoT hub, or cloud-based service. Furthermore, the mode selection module (108H) permits the method (200) to adapt according to different operational modes such as heating, cooling, energy-saving, or vacation mode, thus allowing flexibility in balancing user comfort, energy efficiency, and system longevity.
Thus, the dual-function water heating and cooling system (100) of the present disclosure offers several technical and practical advantages over conventional water conditioning appliances. By integrating both heating and cooling functionalities into a single unit, the system eliminates the need for separate devices, thereby reducing installation space, cost, and maintenance overhead. Optional inclusion of a four-way valve (118) and coordinated operation of the heating mechanism (110) and cooling mechanism (112) enables rapid switching between hot and cold water delivery, ensuring year-round usability irrespective of seasonal variations.
Another advantage lies in the advanced controller (108) and its modular architecture, which provides intelligent decision-making through user inputs, environmental sensing, and adaptive learning. This not only ensures that water is dispensed at a precisely controlled temperature but also enables the system (100) to anticipate future usage patterns, thereby reducing waiting time and minimizing energy wastage. Furthermore, integration of the pressure sensing module (108C) allows seamless compatibility with existing household pipeline networks without loss of pressure, enhancing user convenience.
The system (100) also provides enhanced safety and reliability, as the safety and protection module (108J) continuously monitor for hazardous conditions such as overheating, overcooling, and abnormal pressure, while the sanitization module (1080) prevents bacterial growth through automated hygiene cycles. Such features significantly improve user health, safety, and confidence in the system's operation.
From an energy perspective, the energy optimization module (108L) and mode selection module (108H) contribute to improved energy efficiency by dynamically scheduling or modulating heating and cooling operations based on real-time conditions and external signals, thus lowering operating costs and environmental impact. Additionally, the communication module (108F) enables remote monitoring and control, providing flexibility for modern connected households and allowing integration with smart home ecosystems.
Finally, the incorporation of water quality monitoring (108K) and self-diagnostic functions (108N) ensures that the system maintains long-term performance with reduced maintenance interruptions. Collectively, these advantages make the disclosed system (100) and method (200) thereof highly efficient, intelligent, user-friendly, and suitable for widespread adoption in residential and commercial settings.
The foregoing descriptions of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in the light of the above teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the disclosure and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

We claim:

1. A dual-function water heating and cooling system comprising:

a water conditioning chamber to receive water from a water supply;

a heating mechanism arranged to heat the water in the chamber when activated;

a cooling mechanism arranged to cool the water in the chamber when activated;

one or more temperature sensors for detecting water temperature;

at least one user interface element for receiving a pre-defined water temperature; and

an electronic controller operatively connected to the sensors, power supply, and with the user interface, the heating mechanism, and the cooling mechanism,

wherein the controller activates the heating mechanism or the cooling mechanism in response to the user-selected temperature so as to output water at the desired temperature;

wherein the system is directly integrable into a water pipeline network without loss of pressure; and

wherein the controller is adapted to automatically manage activation of the heating mechanism and cooling mechanism in a seasonally consistent manner so as to avoid user confusion at the faucet or mixing tap.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the water conditioning chamber comprising a single coil subjected to undergo either heating mechanism or cooling mechanism in response to the user-selected temperature so as to output water at the pre-defined temperature.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the water conditioning chamber comprising two coils in parallel, one of which subjected to heating mechanism and another coil subjected to cooling mechanism in response to the user-selected temperature so as to output water at the desired temperature.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the electronic controller comprises a microprocessor and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions in a memory, the microprocessor being operative to execute the instructions and thereby control a plurality of modules comprising:

a user input module that receives a user-selected predefined temperature through at least one user interface element;

a temperature sensing module for detecting the temperature of inlet water, water within the conditioning chamber, and outlet water,

a pressure sensing module for detecting water pressure within the system, the pressure sensing module in cooperating with the controller to maintain integration with a pipeline network without loss of pressure;

a weather monitoring module for acquiring ambient or seasonal information and enabling the controller to automatically determine a suitable dispensing temperature when the user does not provide a specific input;

a decision-making module that activates a heating mechanism or a cooling mechanism in response to the sensed parameters and user input or automatically determined dispensing temperature;

a communication module that enables remote user control and monitoring of the system through at least one of wired or wireless interfaces;

an adaptive learning module employing computational techniques to analyze patterns of hot and cold water demand and to anticipate future use by initiating pre-heating or pre-cooling of water;

a mode selection module enabling operation of the system in multiple modes comprising at least a heating mode, a cooling mode, and an energy-saving or vacation mode, and permitting execution of user-defined schedules or adjustment based on external signals;

a pump control module that activates a pump to deliver conditioned water rapidly to outlets for reducing wait time and water wastage, or to periodically circulate water within the chamber for maintaining uniform temperature and preventing stagnation;

a safety and protection module for monitoring overheating, overcooling, or abnormal pressure and for deactivating the heating or cooling mechanism upon unsafe conditions;

a water quality monitoring module for detecting at least one of: turbidity, hardness, or total dissolved solids (TDS), and selectively routing water through a filtration unit prior to conditioning;

an energy optimization module that monitors energy consumption of the heating and cooling mechanisms and schedules or modulates operation to improve energy efficiency;

a flow control module for regulating water flow rate to maintain consistent temperature output under variable demand conditions;

a self-diagnostic module for detecting system faults, performing periodic health checks, monitoring maintenance needs, and issuing alerts via the user interface element or the communication module, including: Target temperature reached; Filter replacement needed; Maintenance required; Fault conditions; System status indicators; and

a sanitization module operative to periodically execute a hygiene cycle by heating water in the conditioning chamber to a predetermined temperature for a set duration, and/or by flushing water through the system at predetermined temperature or with a cleaning agent, to inhibit bacterial growth and maintain hygiene.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the user interface element is selected from: a touchscreen display, physical buttons, a rotatable control knob, a rotatable tap actuated towards left or right, or a remote client device.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprising a straight through passway running between the inlet and the outlet, the straight through passway selectively dispensing unconditioned water directly to the outlet without passing through the conditioning chamber.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the straight through passway is operatively controlled by a valve actuated by the electronic controller or by a manual selection mechanism, thereby enabling user selection between dispensing conditioned water and unconditioned water.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the outlet comprising at least one of the following forms:

a single outlet for dispensing either conditioned or unconditioned water,

a dual-outlet arrangement comprising a first outlet for conditioned water and a second outlet for unconditioned water, or

a single outlet provided with a rotatable knob or actuator that selectively directs dispensing of conditioned or unconditioned water.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the heating mechanism comprises at least one of an electric resistive heating element, an induction coil, a gas burner, or a heat pump cycle.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises at least one of a vapor-compression refrigeration circuit, a thermoelectric module, or a phase change cooling chamber.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a detachable shower arm fluidly connected to the outlet or a detachable therapeutic pad thermally or fluidly coupled to the conditioning chamber, the shower arm including a plurality of nozzles operative to selectively dispense steam or chilled water/ice mist, and the therapeutic pad being configured to provide localized heating or cooling to a user's body for muscular recovery or therapeutic treatment.

12. The system of claim 1, further comprising a detachable cooling attachment removably connected at the outlet, the attachment containing a phase change material (PCM) or thermal storage medium, wherein when water flows through the attachment, heat is absorbed by the PCM to provide additional cooling of the water before it is dispensed, thereby delivering supplemental cold water for a limited duration.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the detachable cooling attachment is further configured to be operatively linked to the system for regaining its original cooled state, such that the PCM or thermal storage medium is reconditioned for redeployable use in subsequent cooling cycles.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprises an inbuilt rechargeable power source selected from a battery or a supercapacitor, configured to provide backup power for controlling inlet and outlet valve operations, user-selected settings, and pre-conditioning logic during random power cuts or unintended hard resets, to prevent unconditioned or unsafe water discharge.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the detachable cooling attachment comprises:

a coupling mechanism with magnetic and mechanical locking features to attach to a shower head or faucet;

an internal coiled water conduit passing through a PCM-filled chamber; and

an outlet perforated to emit water in a spray pattern, such that hot water entering the detachable cooling attachment is cooled by the PCM before exiting, and wherein the detachable cooling attachment can be recharged by docking it into the main system for cooling the PCM once depleted.

16. The system of claim 1, further comprising a motorized mixing valve or blending mechanism controlled by the controller, wherein the controller regulates mixing of water from the heating mechanism and the cooling mechanism to achieve a user-selected output temperature, without requiring multiple sub-chambers while preventing output of water above a pre-determined safety threshold temperature for anti-scald protection.

17. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the refrigeration circuit is a reversible heat pump cycle with a reversing valve, such that the heat exchanger selectively operates as an evaporator to cool the water or as a condenser to heat the water, allowing the same circuit to perform both water-heating and water-cooling functions.

18. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system comprises an electric pump operative to recirculate water through at least a portion of the system or connected plumbing, wherein the controller activates the pump to ensure that conditioned water is rapidly delivered to outlets for reducing wait time and water wastage or to periodically circulate water within the tank to maintain uniform temperature and prevent stagnation.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprising a heat recovery mechanism in which water conditioning chamber includes a heat exchanger is thermally coupled to a wastewater drain or another heat source, wherein the heat exchanger pre-heating incoming water using waste heat from warm drain water (during heating operation) or pre-cooling incoming water using a thermal sink during cooling operation, thereby improving overall energy efficiency of the system.

20. The system of claim 1, wherein the water conditioning chamber is thermally insulated with a high-performance insulation material selected from vacuum-insulated panels and aerogel insulation, to minimize heat loss and heat gain.

21. The system of claim 1, wherein at least the interior surfaces of the water conditioning chamber and water flow pathways are composed of or coated with antimicrobial and scale-resistant materials, and the system comprises a sacrificial anode or an active anti-corrosion anode to protect against corrosion of the tank.

22. The system of claim 1, further comprising a UV-C light sterilizer to irradiate water flowing through the system, for inactivation of microorganisms in the water prior to discharge.

23. The system of claim 1, further comprising a water filtration and softening module at the inlet, the module including one or more replaceable filter cartridges to remove sediment, chlorine, and hardness from the incoming water, thereby providing treated water for use and reducing mineral buildup inside the system.

24. The system of claim 1, wherein the system comprising at least one leak detection sensor positioned to sense water leakage within the unit or at plumbing connections, wherein the controller is operative to automatically shut off a water inlet valve and disable the heating and cooling mechanisms upon detection of a leak condition, and optionally to send an alert to a user.

25. The system of claim 1, further comprising a pressure relief valve for releasing excess pressure from the tank and a vacuum relief mechanism for admitting air if a vacuum is formed, thereby protecting the water conditioning chamber during both heating expansion and cooling contraction of water.

26. The system of claim 1, wherein the components of the system are in a modular architecture, such that one or more thereof are user-removable or interchangeable, thereby allowing customization of the system for heating-only, cooling-only, or combined operation, and simplifying upgrades or maintenance.

27. The system of claim 17, wherein the reversible heat pump cycle further comprises a four-way reversing valve arranged to switch the heat exchanger between heating and cooling modes, such that the same refrigeration circuit is operable to heat or cool water in the conditioning chamber under control of the electronic controller.

28. An electronic controller for controlling a dual-function water heating and cooling system comprising a water conditioning chamber, a heating mechanism, a cooling mechanism, at least one user interface element, and at least one outlet, the controller comprising:

a microprocessor operatively connected to a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions in a memory;

a user input module for receiving a predefined water temperature via the user interface element;

a temperature sensing module for detecting the temperature of inlet water, water within the water conditioning chamber, and water at the outlet;

a decision-making module for selectively activating the heating mechanism or cooling mechanism to output water at the user-selected temperature;

a flow control module for regulating water flow to maintain consistent temperature output; and

a safety and protection module for preventing dispensing of water above a predetermined safety threshold;

wherein the controller regulates activation of the heating mechanism or cooling mechanism to output water at a user-selected temperature, maintains integration with a water pipeline network without loss of pressure, and automatically adjusts heating or cooling based on seasonal or ambient conditions.

29. The controller of claim 28, comprising a communication module for remote control or monitoring of the system via wired or wireless interfaces.

30. The controller of claim 29, comprising an adaptive learning module for analyzing water usage patterns and initiating pre-heating or pre-cooling of water in anticipation of demand.

31. The controller of claim 29, comprising a sanitization module to periodically heat water in the conditioning chamber or flush water through the system to maintain hygiene.

32. The controller of claim 29, comprising a mode selection module for enabling heating-only, cooling-only, or energy-saving operation of the system.

33. A method of operating a dual-function water heating and cooling system comprising a water conditioning chamber, a heating mechanism, a cooling mechanism, at least one user interface element, and at least one outlet, the method comprising:

receiving, via the user interface element, a user-selected water temperature;

sensing, via a temperature sensor, the temperature of inlet water, water within the water conditioning chamber, and water at the outlet;

activating, via a controller, the heating mechanism or the cooling mechanism in response to the sensed temperature and the user-selected temperature; and

dispensing water at the outlet at the desired temperature;

wherein the method automatically regulates the heating or cooling operation to maintain the desired output temperature, optionally bypasses the conditioning chamber to deliver unconditioned water, and adapts the water conditioning based on ambient or seasonal conditions.

34. The method of claim 33, further comprising selectively bypassing the water conditioning chamber (102) via a straight through passway (114) to dispense unconditioned water.

35. The method of claim 33, further comprising mixing water from a hot source and a cold source via a motorized blending or mixing valve to achieve the user-selected temperature while preventing anti-scald conditions.

36. The method of claim 33, further comprising recirculating water through at least a portion of the system using a pump to reduce wait time, maintain uniform temperature, and prevent stagnation.

37. The method of claim 33, further comprising providing adaptive temperature control using historical usage data to pre-heat or pre-cool water in anticipation of user demand.

38. The method of claim 33, further comprising executing a hygiene cycle by heating water in the water conditioning chamber (102) to a predetermined temperature or flushing water through the system (100) to inhibit bacterial growth.