Aquor Water Systems, Incorporated recently secured a major technological breakthrough with the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12723675. This patent, titled ‘Spigotless variable-temperature fluid (e.g., water) valve openable with a dispensing device and with optional back-pressure relief’, introduces a novel approach to outdoor and indoor water access. Users can now access variable temperature water without traditional leaky and bulky spigots.
Advanced Spigotless Valve Technology
The innovation focuses on a spigotless, variable-temperature fluid valve that is openable directly with a dispensing device. This system uses a unique receptacle with a protrusion configured to engage a groove of the dispensing device. A precise mixer combines hot and cold input ports, directing the fluid through a specialized valve assembly. This setup allows fluid to flow only when the dispensing device is properly inserted. Furthermore, it includes an optional back-pressure relief or unidirectional-valve assembly to manage pressure during insertion. This ensures an efficient and reliable connection during fluid transfer.
Washington State Patent of the Month
Due to its exceptional engineering and practical utility, this invention won the patent of the month for Washington state for the month of October 2026, granted by Swanson Reed. The engineering team, including inventors Cash Walcome, Richard Walcome, Kamil Slusarski, Leif Portmann-Bown, and Micah Mutch, successfully resolved longstanding mechanical issues associated with traditional water valves. Their design automatically drains upon disconnection to prevent freezing and burst pipes, providing a secure, minimalist, and frost free solution. The quick connect mechanism operates with a simple push and twist, protecting against unnecessary wear and tear over time.
R&D Tax Credit Eligibility in the USA
The practical applications of this patent involve extensive engineering, which may qualify the company for the Research and Development (R&D) tax credit in the USA. Developing this spigotless valve required designing a unique pressure relief mechanism, testing variable temperature mixing under high water pressure, and prototyping complex polymer and stainless steel components. These iterative engineering processes aim to eliminate technical uncertainties regarding fluid dynamics and freeze prevention. Such systematic experimentation to improve product performance, durability, and safety aligns directly with the criteria of the IRS four part test. Consequently, these developmental activities are highly likely to be eligible for significant R&D tax incentives.
