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Computer-controlled heated and/or cooled liquid dispenser

  • US 5,889,684 A
  • Filed: 10/18/1996
  • Issued: 03/30/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/18/1996
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A liquid dispenser comprising:

  • a programmed processor;

    a first sensor coupled to the programmed processor which senses the temperature of a liquid in the dispenser;

    at least one of a heater and a refrigeration unit which changes the temperature of the liquid as controlled by the programmed processor;

    a liquid flow control device coupled to a source of liquid to be dispensed which allows the flow of liquid therethrough and prevents the flow of the liquid therethrough as controlled by the programmed processor;

    a liquid outlet in communication with the liquid flow control device;

    a manually operated input device coupled to the programmed processor;

    a drip tray positioned below the liquid outlet so as to receive liquid dispensed therefrom not received in a container placed between the liquid outlet and the drip tray; and

    a second sensor coupled to the programmed processor which senses the level of liquid in the drip tray;

    the programmed processor being programmed to;

    cause at least one of the heater and the refrigeration unit to change the temperature of the liquid in response to a set temperature and the temperature sensed by the first sensor; and

    cause the liquid flow control device to pass liquid therethrough in response to the input device and not to pass liquid therethrough in response to the second sensor.

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