Dispensing device for purified water

Description

1 / 30 Dispensing device for purified water Technical Field

[001] The present invention relates to a dispensing device for purified water, more specifically, to a dispensing device for ultrapure water. The present application also relates to a water purification system comprising such a dispensing device for purified water, as well as to a method for dispensing purified water. Background

[002] Various applications in the pharmaceutical, life sciences, or semiconductor fields require water with a higher degree of purity than natural water or tap water, in order to prevent or at least reduce the occurrence of unwanted side reactions or to negatively influence the reproducibility of analytical or production processes through the introduction of contaminants. Thus, depending on the intended application, the purity of the water must be improved by removing, at least partially, the contaminants present in the water. The purest water, often referred to as ultrapure or, according to ASTM D 1193-06, as Type I water, is, for example, characterized by a resistivity of at least 18.0 MΩ·cm and a maximum of 5 ppb of total organic carbon (TOC). Type II water is typically characterized by a resistivity of at least 1.0 MΩ·cm and a maximum of 50 ppb of total organic carbon.Type III water is the lowest quality water for laboratory use, with a resistivity of at least 0.05 MΩ · cm and a maximum of 200 ppb of total organic carbon. It is recommended for standard laboratory use, such as rinsing glassware or heating baths, as well as feeding water purification systems that produce Type I water. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 6 / 51 2 / 30

[003] Water purification systems that allow the production of ultrapure or Type I water are so known. An integrated water purification system designed to purify tap water comprises several water purification stages, such as, for example, filtration, reverse osmosis, electrodeionization, UV radiation treatment, and ion exchange stages. Generally, this purification system comprises a first purification stage, in which tap water is purified to a first degree of purity (e.g., Type II or lower, as defined by ASTM D 1193-06), and a second purification stage, in which the pre-purified water from the first purification stage is further purified to a higher degree of purity (e.g., Type I, as defined by ASTM D 1193-06), which can then be dispensed from the system and used.

[004] Purifying water to the ultrapure level is a challenge, as acceptable levels of contaminants are very low. Thus, to prevent the accumulation of contaminants in the water purification system and in the dispensing section, for example, when there is no dispensing of water from the system, the purified water will need to be continuously recirculated throughout the system, for example, by means of continuous recirculation through the first and second purification stages, as well as through the dispensing device.

[005] In many commercially available water purification systems, the dispenser for dispensing purified water from the system is, for user convenience, mobile, so that the user can move it, within a certain range, to the actual point of use without having to move the entire heavy water purification system. This requires a supply line that provides, in a first flow path, purified water from the previous purification stages to the dispensing device and, in a second flow path, the water from the previous purification stages to the dispensing device. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 7 / 51 3 / 30 of the second flow path, recirculate the purified water that was not dispensed for recirculation. Furthermore, as the dispensing devices comprise solenoid and / or motorized valves, an electrical cable supplying electricity to this valve(s) is also necessary. To prevent damage to the power line and the electrical cable, these are often surrounded by a protective sheath. Consequently, the power line becomes quite thick and heavy, resulting in reduced flexibility.

[006] For example, in a state-of-the-art water purification system available on the market (100), as described in document EP 1 814 007 A1, whose flow diagram is shown in Figure 1, reference numbers (146) and (147) indicate a first and a second flow path that provides purified water to the dispenser, the dispenser comprising an outlet (102), a filter (107) and a solenoid dispensing valve (120). In this state-of-the-art water purification system available on the market, each of the first and second flow paths is carried out by a pipe with an inner diameter of 6 mm and an outer diameter of 8 mm, thus reducing, due only to its thickness, the flexibility and ergonomics of the supply line.

[007] In such water purification systems, the flow of purified water through the dispenser's water outlet is generally controlled by opening and closing the water outlet via a solenoid valve. However, solenoid valves only have an on-off adjustment and cannot control the flow rate of the purified water being dispensed. For this reason, solenoid valves are sometimes coupled with a motorized valve, thus allowing the user to precisely control the flow rate of the dispensed water, from drip-by-drip dispensing to high flow rates. Both the solenoid valve and the motorized valve can be integrated Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 8 / 51 4 / 30 of the dispenser or, alternatively, the motorized valve can be installed remotely, for example, in a remote central unit, with only the solenoid valve in the dispenser itself.

[008] Water purification systems and distribution systems for ultrapure water are also described, for example, in documents US 5,925,240 A; WO 2010 / 043899 A1; and US 11,035,484 B2.

[009] However, existing water purification systems, and particularly distribution systems and dispensing devices, have a number of disadvantages, such as, for example: (i) a printed circuit board (PCB) with electronic components must be integrated into the dispensing unit, with electrical power transferred from the remote main system to the dispenser or dispensing device; (ii) the solenoid valve and the motorized valve, together, are bulky components, which limits the options for integrating and designing the dispenser, in order to maintain ergonomic operation; (iii) Energizing the activation coil of a solenoid valve for a long period of time may cause overheating, which may compromise the quality of the purified water dispensed by the dispenser or dispensing device; and (iv) In a system with more than one dispenser or dispensing device, a motorized valve coupled to several solenoid valves allows only one flow adjustment at a time, and it is not possible to define different flow rates for the different dispensers or dispensing devices.

[0010] Therefore, it is necessary to overcome these and other disadvantages and make water purification systems, in particular water purification systems for laboratory applications and the dispensing device, easier to use and / or simpler in terms of Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 9 / 51 5 / 30 of construction, preferably in combination with the reduction of one or more factors, such as size, costs and environmental impact.

[0011] In addition, such a water purification system also preferably allows for easy and ergonomic operation and / or easy and robust assembly. Summary

[0012] It has now been surprisingly discovered that the above needs can be met individually or in any combination by the dispensing device, the water purification system and the method of the present application.

[0013] The present application therefore provides a dispensing device for dispensing purified water, the dispensing device comprising (a) a dispenser comprising a set of valves and a water outlet; and (b) a supply line that supplies purified water to the dispenser and removes water from the dispenser, wherein the supply line comprises an integral multilumen tube, the integral multilumen tube comprising at least two separate lumens that serve as flow paths for supplying water to / from the dispenser, respectively.

[0014] In addition, the present application provides a water purification system comprising such a dispensing device.

[0015] In addition, the present application provides a method for dispensing purified water, the method comprising the steps of (A) providing such a dispensing device as defined herein; (B) to supply purified water through a supply line to the dispenser; and (C) to dispense purified water through the dispenser. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 10 / 51 6 / 30 Brief Description of the Drawings

[0016] Figure 1 is a reproduction of Figure 1 from document EP 1 814 007 A1, which shows a schematic representation of an exemplary flow diagram of a state-of-the-art water purification system available on the market.

[0017] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary water purification system of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 3a shows a schematic representation of an example of an integral multilumen tube, as it may be used here.

[0019] Figure 3b shows a schematic representation of the exemplary integral multilumen tube of Figure 3a surrounded by a tightly fitted protective sheath.

[0020] Figure 3c shows a schematic representation of the exemplary integral multilumen tube of Figure 3a surrounded by a loose protective sheath.

[0021] Figure 4 shows a schematic perspective view of a first exemplary disc of the valve assembly, according to the present application.

[0022] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of a second exemplary disc of the valve assembly, according to the present application.

[0023] Figure 6 shows a schematic top view of a valve assembly, according to the present application, with the first disc, as shown in Figure 4, and the second disc, as shown in Figure 5, superimposed on each other.

[0024] Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of an exemplary dispenser of the present application.

[0025] Figure 8a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary dispenser according to the present application, with the valve assembly of the present application in the fe position. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 11 / 51 7 / 30 chada.

[0026] Figure 8b shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary dispenser according to the present application, with the valve assembly of the present application in the open position. Detailed Description

[0027] For the purposes of this application, the term distribution system is used to designate, in general, a system that carries purified water from a water purification unit to a point of use. Such a distribution system may, for example, comprise one or more elements selected from the group consisting of distribution devices, dispensing units, supply lines and / or dispersers, as defined herein.

[0028] For the purposes of this application, the terms supply line and purified water supply line are used consistently to designate the supply line that provides purified water to the dispenser and that removes purified water that has not been dispensed (undispensed purified water), i.e., water that has not been withdrawn from the system for use, from the dispenser.

[0029] For the purposes of this application, the term raw water feed line is used consistently to designate a line that feeds raw water from an external source, such as, for example, tap water, for purification in a water purification system.

[0030] For the purposes of this application, the term lumen is used to designate a continuous cavity extending along the longitudinal axis of a tube. Throughout this application, such a continuous cavity extending along the longitudinal axis of a tube may also be referred to as a flow path or channel.

[0031] This application refers to a dispensing device. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 12 / 51 8 / 30 for liquids, such as water, and particularly for dispensing purified water, for example, ultrapure water, i.e., Type I water. The present dispensing device has proven particularly useful in water purification systems for laboratory applications. Such water purification systems for laboratory applications preferably have a dispensing flow rate (maximum dispensing flow rate) of at most 5 l · min-1, more preferably at most 4 l · min-1, even more preferably at most 3 l · min-1 and, even more preferably, at most 2 l · min-1. Although described here generally in the context of such a water purification system, the present dispensing device can also be used in other applications where precise dispensing of liquids may be required.

[0032] Such a water purification system generally comprises a water supply, a water purification unit, and a dispensing device, which in turn comprises a supply line and a dispenser. For clarity, it is noted that the supply line connects (fluidically) the water purification unit and the dispenser.

[0033] A schematic representation of such a water purification system (10) is shown in Figure 2, comprising a raw water supply line (11), a water purification unit (12) and a dispensing device (13), which in turn comprises a supply line (14) and a dispenser (15).

[0034] The means for water purification and, therefore, the components generally included in a water purification unit for purifying raw water from an external source to the desired purity level are generally known in the art and are, for example, described in the documents already mentioned. FEED LINE

[0035] The supply line (or water supply line) Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 13 / 51 9 / 30 purified) supplies (or dispenses) purified water to the dispenser and removes the water that was not dispensed from the dispenser, returning it to the water purification unit where it is then subjected to one or more purification stages. Providing this flow to / from the dispenser (cycle) prevents the accumulation of contaminants in stagnant water, for example, by removing materials used in the pipe to carry the purified water. This cycle can be carried out continuously or, preferably, intermittently to reduce energy consumption, for example, in regular cycles for a period (or duration) of time sufficient to remove and / or repurify any stagnant water in the circuit (including the supply line).The time period between cycles, that is, the time between cycles, can be determined, for example, based on the amount of contaminants introduced into the purified water in a certain period of time and / or the desired purity level of the purified water.

[0036] The present water supply line comprises, or preferably consists of, an integral multilumen tube. This integral multilumen tube comprises at least two (for example, two, or three, or four, or five, or six, or seven, or eight, or even more than eight) separate lumens in a single (integral) tube that serve as flow paths for the supply water to / from the dispenser, respectively. Note that, regardless of the total number of lumens comprised in such an integral multilumen tube, at least one (for example, one, or two, or three, or four, or even more than four) lumen serves as a flow path (or channel) to supply (purified) water to the dispenser, and at least one (for example, one, or two, or three, or four, or even more than four) lumen serves as a flow path (or channel) to remove undispensed purified water from the dispenser. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 14 / 51 10 / 30

[0037] Preferably, the present integral multilumen tube comprises at least one (for example, one, or two, or three, or four, or even more than four) central lumen and at least one (for example, one, or two, or three, or four, or even more than four) peripheral (or external) lumen, with each lumen separated from the others.

[0038] Preferably, the present integral multilumen tube comprises at least two (for example, two, or three, or four, or five, or six, or seven, or eight, or even more than eight) lumens symmetrically distributed around at least one central lumen, with each lumen separated from the others.

[0039] Preferably, the present integral multilumen tube comprises, or preferably consists of, a material with low leachability, preferably a polymer with low leachability. This polymer with low leachability may, for example, be selected from the group consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF, also known as polyvinylidene difluoride), perfluoroalkoxy polymers (PFA) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), the latter being preferred.

[0040] Preferably, the present feed line comprises a protective sheath that encloses the integral multilumen tube. Such sheath may enclose the integral multilumen tube in a tight fit, i.e., without any free volume between the sheath and the outer surface of the integral multilumen tube, or in a loose fit, i.e., with free volume between the sheath and the outer surface of the integral multilumen tube. Preferably, such sheath encloses the integral multilumen in a tight fit, with the sheath and the integral multilumen tube being co-extruded. The co-extrusion of the sheath and the integral multilumen tube results in a strong adhesion between them, essentially making it a multilumen tube with an integral sheath.

[0041] Preferably, the protective sheath comprises, preferably Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 15 / 51 11 / 30 likely consists of a different material than that of the integral multilumen tube.

[0042] Preferably, the present feeding line, including – if present – ​​a protective sheath, is flexible. This flexible feeding line is then preferably made of low-density polyethylene. This will allow for easy handling of the dispensing device and improve ergonomics.

[0043] Figure 3a schematically shows an exemplary integral multilumen tube (20), which can be used here, comprising a total of five lumens (21) separated from each other, with a central lumen (21a) and four peripheral lumens (21b) arranged symmetrically around the central lumen (21a).

[0044] Figure 3b schematically shows the exemplary integral multilumen tube (20) of Figure 3a with a sheath (22) tightly enclosing the integral multilumen tube (20).

[0045] Figure 3c schematically shows the exemplary integral multilumen tube (20) of Figure 3a with a sheath (22) loosely enclosing the integral multilumen tube (20), thus presenting a free volume (23) between the sheath and the integral multilumen tube (20). DISPENSER

[0046] Although the present dispenser may comprise any suitable valve arrangement that allows controlling the flow of purified water to be dispensed drop by drop up to the maximum dispensing rate of the system, it is preferable, however, that the dispenser comprise a valve assembly consisting of two ceramic discs (or a pair of discs), which may hereafter also be referred to as the first disc and the second disc, respectively.

[0047] Preferably, this pair of a first disc and a second disc should be rotated relative to each other with a first Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 16 / 51 12 / 30 ra and a second mutually opposed sealing contact surfaces, arranged to at least partially slide into contact with each other, wherein the first disc has at least one window, wherein the second disc has a solid portion arranged to completely cover and thus close at least one window of the first disc in a fully closed rotation position, and an opening portion arranged to at least partially expose at least one window of the first disc in a fully open rotation position.

[0048] Preferably, the solid portion of the second disc, arranged to completely cover and close at least one window of the first disc in the fully closed rotation position, is formed so as to include a portion of the second sealing contact surface that overlaps the first sealing contact surface of the first disc around an edge of the window by a sealing zone with a width of at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2.0 mm.

[0049] Preferably, the first and second sealing contact surfaces of the pair of a first and a second disc, arranged to slide at least partially in contact with each other, have a surface roughness Ra of at most 0.60 μm and / or a surface flatness of at most 0.80 μm, and are preferably polished or ground.

[0050] Preferably, the first and second mutually opposed sealing contact surfaces of the pair of a first and a second disc are arranged so that a percentage of 50-80%, preferably 55-75%, and more preferably 60-70%, of the first and second sealing contact surfaces slide in mutual contact between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 17 / 51 13 / 30

[0051] Preferably, the second disc floats freely in contact with the first disc or is pressed towards the first disc by a pressing member.

[0052] Preferably, at least one window of the first disc has a notch / dent embedded in the material of the first disc from the plane defined by the first sealing contact surface of the first disc on one / the edge of at least one window, on a side where the exposure of at least one window is initiated with the movement of the second disc from the fully closed rotation position towards the fully open rotation position.

[0053] Preferably, the notch / dent has a pointed end that gradually widens and / or deepens towards at least one window.

[0054] Preferably, at least one window has a slope or ramp on a side wall adjacent to / next to where the exposure of at least one window is initiated with the movement of the second disc from the fully closed rotation position in / towards the fully open rotation position, such that the free opening width of at least one window in the direction of the thickness of the first disc becomes gradually narrower with the distance from the plane of the first sealing contact surface.

[0055] Preferably, the valve assembly is dimensioned so as to provide, within the angular range of rotation of the relative movement between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position, a flow rate through at least one drop window, preferably 20 ml · min-1, up to a maximum of 5 l · min-1, more preferably a maximum of 4 l · min-1, even more preferably a maximum of 3 l · min-1 and, even more preferably, a maximum of 2 l · min-1. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 18 / 51 14 / 30

[0056] Preferably, the angular range of rotation between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position is 500-700, preferably 550-650, and more preferably about 600.

[0057] Preferably, the first disc is provided with positioning notches to prevent rotation and define a mounting position in a liquid dispenser receptacle, the positioning notches being formed and / or arranged asymmetrically around a circumference of the first disc.

[0058] Preferably, the second disc is provided with one or more actuator recesses and / or protrusions on a side opposite the second sealing contact surface, for engagement with a rotary actuator of a liquid dispenser.

[0059] Preferably, the first disc has a circular outer periphery, and the second disc has a non-circular outer periphery, with the opening portion arranged so as to expose at least partially at least one window of the first disc radially recessed from the outer periphery.

[0060] Preferably, the first disc and / or the second disc are made of a ceramic material, preferably aluminum oxide ceramic.

[0061] Preferably, the first disc of the valve assembly is rotatably fixed in position within the receptacle, such that at least one window communicates with the outlet, and the second disc is mounted in the receptacle so as to float freely in contact with the first disc and such that the first and second sealing contact surfaces are pressed against each other by the pressure of the water from the supply pipe acting on the second disc.

[0062] Preferably, the second disc in the valve assembly is Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 19 / 51 15 / 30 fitted (or mechanically connected) to a manually operable rotary actuator (e.g., a handwheel) to rotatably drive the second disc relative to the first disc between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position.

[0063] The manually operable rotary actuator can be directly or indirectly mechanically connected to the second (upper) disc of the present valve assembly. In the case of a direct connection, said rotary actuator, which comprises an optional short shaft integrally formed with the rotary actuator, rotatably drives the second disc relative to the first disc between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position. In the case of an indirect connection, said rotary actuator is mechanically connected to the second (upper) disc by means of a shaft (or rod), wherein the rotary actuator and the shaft are separate parts. Preferably, the shaft may consist of two distinct parts, a shaft and an actuator, wherein the rotary actuator is mechanically connected to the shaft, which in turn is mechanically connected to the actuator, which in turn is mechanically connected to the second (upper) disc.

[0064] Thus, a preferred dispenser comprises a manually operable rotary actuator (e.g., a handwheel), a valve assembly consisting of two ceramic discs and a shaft connecting said rotary actuator to one of said ceramic discs (preferably the second (upper) disc), thereby allowing the valve to be opened and closed by rotating the rotary actuator.

[0065] It should be understood that the manually operable rotary actuator and the second (upper) disc and, if present, the shaft and / or the drive, are mechanically connected to each other in order to allow smooth and precise rotary motion, as will be explained in Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 20 / 51 16 / 30 More details below.

[0066] The preferred valve assembly, as described herein, is a mechanical valve assembly comprising a single pair of discs, preferably made of ceramic material, which can be integrated into the dispenser of water purification systems to replace both the motorized valve and the solenoid valve. This single pair of discs can be used to control both the opening and closing of the flow through the valve assembly, as well as the drop-by-drop dispensing flow rate up to high flow rates, i.e., from 20 ml · min-1 up to a maximum of 5 l · min-1, more preferably up to a maximum of 4 l · min-1, even more preferably up to a maximum of 3 l · min-1 and, even more preferably, up to a maximum of 2 l · min-1.

[0067] This preferred mechanical valve assembly, as described herein, offers one or more of the following advantages over existing products due to its reduced size and complexity: (i) The ability to have multiple dispensers and / or dispensing devices to dispense at different flow rates simultaneously in a single water purification system; (ii) The size of the dispenser and / or dispensing device can be reduced by removing the solenoid valve (and the motorized valve, if provided) and the printed circuit board (PCB) from the dispenser and / or dispensing device - this provides improved ergonomic handling of the dispenser and / or dispensing device; (iii) The number of components and the complexity of the dispenser and / or dispensing device and / or the distribution system can be reduced – in particular, by avoiding electronic means, because no power or control circuits should be provided from the main system comprising the water purification unit to the distribution system and / or the dispenser and / or dispensing device. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 21 / 51 17 / 30 dispensing system, and a connection between the main system to the distribution system and / or to the dispenser and / or to the dispensing device can be reduced to a single or double pipe instead of two separate pipes and electronic cables, which may have to be integrated into an outer sleeve or joined together by suitable means, such as, for example, cable ties; (iv) the simplification of the structure and the absence of electronic components are also beneficial from an environmental point of view, reducing the carbon footprint of the distribution system and / or dispensing device and / or dispenser, as well as the entire water purification system, and improving its recyclability; (v) the possibility of omitting electronic components from the dispensing unit and / or the distribution unit further simplifies maintenance and repair of the unit if necessary, since there is no need for electronic connections; (vi) From a manufacturing standpoint, the valve assembly, together with the liquid dispensing device and / or dispenser provided with it, provides a simplified and more robust assembly, i.e., error-free; and (vii) finally, the valve assembly and the liquid dispensing device and / or dispenser provided with it increase design freedom: having electronic parts close to hydraulic components in a small, enclosed space represents a risk and imposes severe restrictions on the design of the purified water distribution system(s) and / or the dispensing device(s) and / or the dispenser(s), forcing a flow inlet from the bottom of a dispenser in most existing products. The absence of electronic components, made possible by the use of the present mechanical valve assembly, simplifies the restrictions on the design of the distribution system and / or the dispensing device and / or the dispenser. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 22 / 51 18 / 30 as well as the overall water purification system, consequently reducing risks from that perspective.

[0068] The invention will now be described in detail based on preferred exemplary embodiments, by reference to the attached schematic drawings in Figures 4 to 8a and 8b.

[0069] The preferred valve assembly for a liquid dispenser and the liquid dispensing device unit, as defined herein, particularly for a water purification system, will now be described in connection with an exemplary preferred embodiment.

[0070] The valve assembly (40) for a liquid dispenser (31) comprises a pair of first (41) and second discs (42) (see Figures 3 and 4, respectively) which must be rotated relative to each other, with first (41a) and second (42a) mutually opposite sealing contact surfaces arranged to, at least partially, slide in contact with each other.

[0071] The first disc (41) has at least one window (43a, 43b) (two in the embodiment in opposite positions to each other, passing through the center of the disc). The second disc (42) has a solid portion (44a, 44b) arranged to completely cover and thus close in an axial direction at least one window (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41) in a fully closed rotation position (shown in Figure 6), and an opening portion (45a, 45b) arranged to expose at least partially at least one window (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41) by progressive relative rotation until positioned in a fully open rotation position. Here, too, two solid portions (44a, 44b) and two opening portions (45a, 45b) are provided in the embodiment complementary to the two windows (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41).

[0072] Although two of the windows and the opening portions and by Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 23 / 51 19 / 30 corresponding solid elements are provided in a rotationally symmetrical manner, the number may be one or more of two distributed around a circumference.

[0073] The windows (43a, 43b) extend through the thickness of the first disc (41) in the axial direction and serve as flow paths for the fluid through the valve assembly (40) in the axial direction, as described later.

[0074] The solid portion(s) (44a, 44b) of the second disc (42) arranged to completely cover and thus close the window(s) (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41) in the fully closed rotation position is / are formed so as to include a portion of the second sealing contact surface (42a) that overlaps the first sealing contact surface (41a) of the first disc (41) within a closed sealing zone (46a, 46b), respectively surrounding an edge (43c, 43d) of the window(s) (43a, 43b). The sealing zone (46a, 46b) has a width of at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2.0 mm, measured perpendicular to the edge or, more precisely, perpendicular to a tangent to the edge within the planes of the first and second sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) to ensure sealing in the fully closed position (see Figure 6).The sealing with the receptacle of a dispenser housing (31), in which the valve assembly (41) is integrated, is obtained on the surface opposite the first sealing contact surface (41a) of the first disc (41) (which may be the lower surface of the first disc, if arranged as the lower disc in the example of Figure 7) and therefore requires a certain circular area on the outside of the surface without openings. These two requirements, combined with the need to maximize the opening area of ​​the windows (43a, 43b) to define a desired maximum dispensing rate, as defined above, determine the sizes, shapes and ca. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 24 / 51 20 / 30 characteristics of the two discs (41,42).

[0075] The first disc (41) and / or the second disc (42) are preferably made of ceramic material. Since the valve assembly (40) is specifically designed to be integrated into an ultrapure water dispensing and dispensing device (31), the type of ceramic material used must be selected to prevent any contamination of the ultrapure water. Aluminum oxide ceramic is a suitable and preferred material. However, depending on the circumstances and if the required sealing properties of the sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) of the discs can be achieved, another material, including metal or alloys, or a different base material with a suitable coating, including a ceramic coating, is possible.

[0076] The first disc (41) in the embodiment has a circular outer periphery, and the second disc (42) has a non-circular outer periphery, with the opening portion (45a, 45b) arranged so as to expose, at least partially, at least one window (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41) radially recessed from the outer periphery (see Figure 5). The discs (41, 42) may, however, have a peripheral shape other than circular. If the peripheral shape is not round, it may facilitate the fixing of at least one disc (i.e., the stationary disc) in a receptacle of a dispenser (31) to prevent rotation by engagement with a suitable corresponding shape of a recess or protrusion.

[0077] The first disc (41) is provided with positioning notches (47a, 47b) on an outer periphery to prevent – ​​when mounted in a receptacle (32) of the dispenser (31), as shown in Figure 7 – rotation and to define a unique mounting position in the receptacle (32). The positioning notches (47a, 47b) are formed and / or arranged asymmetrically around a Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 25 / 51 21 / 30 circumference of the first disc (41) to define the unique mounting position.

[0078] The second disc (42) is provided with one or more recesses (48a, 48b) and / or actuator protrusions (not shown) on a side opposite the second sealing contact surface (42a) in the axial direction, for engagement with a rotary actuator (33) of the liquid dispenser (31). In embodiment, the recesses (48a, 48b) are shallow cavities or grooves with closed bottoms that do not extend through the thickness of the second disc (42) in the axial direction. The rotary actuator (33) is provided with corresponding protrusions (33a, 33b) (see Figure 7) for engagement in the recesses (48a, 48b). The shape or outline of the recesses (48a, 48b) and the corresponding protrusions (33a, 33b) is asymmetrical to define a unique mounting orientation or, more precisely, a defined rotation position of the actuator (33) in which engagement is possible.

[0079] The sealing properties of the discs (41, 42) depend primarily on the percentage of the sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) of the discs that are effectively in contact at the microscopic level. The sealing contact surfaces of the disc (41a, 42a) are therefore processed to achieve a predefined percentage of contact surfaces between the two discs (41, 42). A percentage that is too low would compromise the seal, and a percentage that is too high would cause excessive operating stresses. Since there are no external forces applied to the discs (41, 42) in the integration into the dispenser (31), as described below, this percentage of the disc surfaces (41a, 42a) in contact, together with the water pressure and the frictional forces of the seal on the drive actuator (33), are the only parameters that influence the operating stresses.

[0080] The first and second sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) of the pair of a first and a second disc (41, 42), dis Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, p. 26 / 51 22 / 30 plates designed to slide, at least partially, into contact with each other, have a surface quality or surface roughness Ra of at most 0.60 μm, more preferably at most 0.50 μm, more preferably at most 0.40 μm, and / or a flatness of at most 0.80 μm, preferably at most 0.70 μm, more preferably at most 0.60 μm, to create a fluid-tight seal with the contact. Preferably, the first and second sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) of the pair of a first and second disc (41, 42) are polished or ground.

[0081] The first and second mutually opposed sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) of the pair of a first and a second disc (41, 42) are arranged so that a percentage of 50-80%, preferably 55-75% and, more preferably, 60-70% of the first and second sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) slide in contact with each other between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position.

[0082] The forces required to operate the valve assembly (40) are directly proportional to the axial forces applied to the discs (41,42): Frictional forces = normal forces * coefficient of friction

[0083] Since the valve assembly must be integrated into a water dispenser (31), for example, in the form of an ergonomic and easy-to-use dispenser that the user will hold with only one hand and operate with the thumb within a relatively small angular range of motion, reduced operating forces prove crucial. This differs from similar fluid valves that are driven by a motor or those in which a whole hand is used to operate the valve, over a large angular range.

[0084] Therefore, it is crucial to reduce as much as possible the force required to open and close the valve assembly (40), for an operation Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 27 / 51 23 / 30 ergonomic design. For this purpose, the axial forces applied to the discs (41, 42) must be minimized in order to limit the frictional forces between the discs (41, 42) to a minimum. Extensive tests have shown that water pressure is generally sufficient to press the discs (41, 42) together and obtain a seal, without the need for additional forces.

[0085] In the integration of the valve assembly (40) into a dispenser (31), as exemplified in Figure 7, the second disc (42) is arranged as an upper disc and is preferably mounted floating freely in contact with the first disc (41) to minimize the operating forces of the water dispenser (31). An axial stop is provided in an upper collector to determine and fix the height of the first disc (41), or lower disc, the seal being obtained between the first disc (41) and the housing with a custom seal (37a), shown in Figure 7. There is then a functional gap between the drive actuator (33), i.e., the protrusions (33a, 33b) in the recesses (48a, 48b) of the second disc (42), to ensure that no axial force - except those resulting from the fluid pressure acting on the second disc (42) and pressing it against the first disc (41) - is applied between the discs (41, 42).

[0086] Reduced forces and improved operating ergonomics can also be obtained not only by optimizing the disc properties and integrating with the second disc (42) or free-floating top disc, but also by optimizing the rotary seal in the drive actuator (33).

[0087] In certain applications, it may be beneficial, to intensify the sealing effect, to slightly press the second disc (42) towards the first disc (41), by means of a pressing member (not shown), for example, an elastic element such as an elastic seal (e.g., a sealing ring) or spring. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 28 / 51 24 / 30 disposed between the drive actuator (33) and the upper surface of the second disc (42). Such a pressing member could, for example, be disposed in the space between the protrusions (33a, 33b) and the upper surface of the second disc (42) (not shown in the drawing).

[0088] For intended use in a liquid dispenser (31) for ultrapure water, the design and properties of the disc are optimized to allow a wide range of flow rates: a good seal must be obtained in the fully closed position, and flow rates from a stable and easy-to-achieve drop-by-drop dispensing up to the maximum dispensing rate, as defined herein, when the valve assembly (40) is fully open, with limited pressure drops, will be provided in a limited ergonomic angular range that will allow operation when the liquid dispenser (31) is used with only one hand and operated with the thumb, while the rest of the hand holds the device.

[0089] The discs (41,42) of the valve assembly (40), in particular, the dimensions and arrangement of the window(s) (43a, 43b), the solid portions (44a, 44b) and the opening portions (45a, 45b), are configured to provide an angular range of rotation between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position between 50o-70o, preferably 55o-65o, and, more preferably, about 60o.

[0090] The valve assembly (40) is designed to provide, within the angular range of rotation of the relative movement between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position, a flow rate through at least one window (43a, 43b) drop by drop, preferably 20 mL / min, up to the maximum dispensing rate defined, as described herein.

[0091] To provide, in particular, a drop-by-drop dispensing is Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 29 / 51 25 / 30 vel and easy to reach from the fully closed position at the beginning of the operating range (or, although not directly described below, correspondingly from the fully open position towards the end of the operating range), at least one window (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41) has a notch / dent (43e) embedded in the material of the first disc (41) from the plane defined by the first sealing contact surface (41a) of the first disc (41) on an / edge (43c, 43d) of at least one window (43a, 43b) that is located on a side where the exposure of at least one window (43a, 43b) is initiated with the movement of the second disc (42) from the fully closed rotation position to the fully open rotation position (see Figures 4, 6 and 8b).

[0092] The notch / dent (43e) has a sharp pointed tip that gradually and continuously widens in a horizontal direction defined by the extension of the plane of the first sealing contact surface (41a) and / or gradually deepens towards at least one window (43a, 43b) in the direction perpendicular to that plane. In other words, the cross-sectional surface of the notch / dent (43e) increases towards at least one window (43a, 43b) in the circumferential direction of the first disc (41).

[0093] Furthermore, to smooth the liquid flow after the additional rotation of the second disc (42) beyond the notch / dent range (43e), at least one window (43a, 43b) has a slope or ramp (43f) in a side wall adjacent to the side where the exposure of at least one window (43a, 43b) is initiated with the movement of the second disc (42) from the fully closed rotation position to the fully open rotation position, such that the width or free opening surface of the cross-section of at least one window (43a, 43b) in the thickness or axial direction of the first disc (41) becomes gradually narrower along at least one Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 30 / 51 26 / 30 certain range with the distance from the plane of the first sealing contact surface (41a).

[0094] As mentioned previously, the valve assembly (40) of the invention is particularly designed and advantageous for use in a liquid dispenser (31) for a water purification system. The integration of the valve assembly (40) in a preferred embodiment of a liquid dispenser (31) is shown, at least partially, in the cross-sectional view of Figure 7. The liquid dispenser (31), which is presented in the form of an ergonomic and easy-to-use dispenser to be held by a single hand of the user while the valve assembly (40) is operated by the thumb, comprises a housing (35), a supply tube (36) for purified water connected to a port (39) of the housing (35) directed to the upper side, and an outlet (38) for purified water directed to the lower side, in a typical vertical orientation.

[0095] The valve assembly (40) according to the invention is arranged in a receptacle (32) of a housing (35), such that the valve assembly (40) can control the volume or rate of flow of purified water from the supply pipe (36), i.e., an integral multi-lumen pipe, as defined herein, to the outlet (38). The receptacle (32) is in communication with the port (39) of the housing (35) and the outlet (38).

[0096] The first disc (41) of the valve assembly (40) is rotatably fixed in position within the receptacle (32), for example, by protrusions that fit into the positioning notches (47a, 47b) on the outer periphery of the first disc (41) (see Figure 4) or by the corresponding shape of the receptacle, such that at least one window (43a, 43b) communicates with the outlet (38). The outer periphery of the surface of the first disc (41) surrounding the lower opening of the window(s) (43a, 43b) is sealed against the housing. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 31 / 51 27 / 30 (35) by means of an annular seal (37a), such that all liquid entering the outlet (38) from the receptacle (32) must pass through the window(s) (43a, 43b) of the first disc (41).

[0097] The second disc (42) is shown mounted in the receptacle (32), so as to float freely in contact with the first disc (41) and in such a way that the first and second sealing contact surfaces (41a, 42a) are pressed against each other only by the water pressure of the supply pipe (36) acting on the second disc (42), as described above.

[0098] The second disc (42) of the valve assembly (40) is fitted into a manually operable rotary actuator (33, 34) to rotatably actuate the second disc (42) relative to the first disc (41) between the fully closed rotation position and the fully open rotation position, within the rotation range described above. The rotary actuator comprises a shaft (34) and an actuator (33) connected to a lower end of the shaft (34).

[0099] Although the actuator (33) and the shaft (34) may be formed of (i.e., consist essentially of) the same material, it is preferable that the actuator (33) and the shaft (34) be formed of different materials. Preferably, the actuator (33) is formed of (i.e., consists essentially of) a material with a low content of leachable substances, i.e., it has a low tendency to release contaminants. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials for the actuator (33) may be selected from the group consisting of polyacetal and polypropylene. A preferred example of a suitable material for the actuator (33) is polyoxymethylene (POM). Preferably, the shaft (34) is formed of a material with good mechanical strength, especially in terms of torsional strength, so as to allow accurate and precise operation of the ceramic discs, which is particularly necessary to find the drop dispensing position. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 32 / 51 28 / 30 drop. Non-limiting examples of such suitable materials for shaft (34) may be selected from the group consisting of polyamides (PA), reinforced polyamides (e.g., with fiber or talc reinforcement) and reinforced polypropylene (e.g., with talc). A preferred example of a suitable material for shaft (34) is polyphthalamide (PPA).

[00100] A portion of the actuator, not shown in the drawing, extends out of the housing (35) and is accessible for the thumb to operate in order to rotatably actuate the second disc (42), and may be shaped according to the desired ergonomics. The rotary actuator is sealed against the housing (35) by a sealing ring or gasket (37b) to prevent liquid from escaping from the receptacle (32) rather than through the outlet (38). The specific design of the actuator is not crucial, provided that floating positioning and contact of the second disc against the first disc are achieved without introducing additional axial forces in connection with the rotational operation of the second disc from the fully closed rotational position to the fully open rotational position (see also Figures 8a and 8b).

[00101] In embodiment, the second disc (42) is provided with additional protrusions (44c, 44d) on an outer periphery which are inserted into the corresponding peripheral grooves (32a, 32b) of the receptacle (32) in order to guide and limit the range of rotation of the second disc (42).

[00102] In addition to considerations relating to hydraulic performance and usability, the shapes and characteristics of the two discs (41, 42) are also optimized for a simple and robust assembly process, with very limited possibilities of disassembly (i.e., incorrect assembly) of the parts in the housings (35) of the liquid dispenser (31). In particular, the positioning notches (47a, 47b) on the first disc (41) used to hold the first disc (41) Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 33 / 51 29 / 30 in place are not symmetrical, so they fit only in one position in the receptacle (32) in which it is integrated. The asymmetrical ribs (32c, 32d) in the receptacle (32), used to hold the first disc (41) or the lower disc in a fixed position, also prevent the upper disc (42) from being mounted in the incorrect angular position (see Figures 8a and 8b).

[00103] The two protrusions (33a, 33b) (see Figure 7) for fitting into the recesses (48a, 48b) on the second disc or movable disc (42) used to actuate the valve operation with the rotary actuator (33, 34), are also different from each other, allowing only one angular position relative to an axis of the actuator (33). This is important, since the valve stops (fully open and fully closed) are defined between the axis and the housing (35).

[00104] The ribs (32e, 32f) between the peripheral grooves (32a, 32b) of the receptacle (32) are used to define these stops and therefore also influence the external shape of the second disc or moving disc (42), which must be free to rotate in its operating range despite these ribs (32e, 32f).

[00105] The present application also refers to a method for dispensing purified water using the present dispensing device.

[00106] Thus, the present method of dispensing purified water comprises the following steps: (A) provide a dispensing device comprising a dispenser and a feed line, as defined herein; (B) to supply purified water through the supply line to the dispenser; and (C) to dispense purified water through the dispenser.

[00107] Preferably, the present method of dispensing purified water comprises the steps of providing a dispensing device, as defined in detail herein, comprising a line of Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 34 / 51 30 / 30 supply and a dispenser, and to supply the dispenser with purified water through the supply line, open a set of valves contained in the dispenser, dispense the desired volume of purified water from the dispenser and close said set of valves.

[00108] Preferably, step (C) comprises the following steps: (C1) Open a set of valves consisting of two ceramic discs manually by operating a rotary actuator (thus allowing purified water to flow through the dispenser and through an outlet); (C2) dispense the desired volume; and (C3) close the valve assembly. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 35 / 51

Claims

1 / 3 CLAIMS 1. Dispensing device for dispensing purified water, characterized in that it comprises: (a) a dispenser comprising a set of valves and a water outlet; and (b) a supply line that provides purified water to the dispenser and removes water from the dispenser, wherein the supply line comprises an integral multilumen tube, the integral multilumen tube comprising at least two separate lumens that serve as flow paths to supply water to and from the dispenser, respectively.

2. Dispensing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the integral multilumen tube comprises, or preferably consists of, a low-leaching material, preferably a polymer, such as low-density polyethylene.

3. Dispensing device, according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the feed line is flexible.

4. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the feed line comprises a protective sheath that encloses the integral multilumen tube.

5. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the integral multilumen tube comprises at least one central lumen and at least one, preferably several, external lumens separated / isolated from the central lumen.

6. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the integral multilumen tube comprises at least two, preferably at least three or four external lumens symmetrically distributed around at least one central lumen.

7. Dispensing device, according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the supply line is connected or can be connected to a water purification unit, such that the flow of purified water towards the dispenser is directed through at least one of the central lumens and any flow of purified water back to the purification unit and / or another dispenser is directed through one or more of the external lumens.

8. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispenser valve assembly comprises two ceramic discs.

9. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispenser comprises a manually operable rotary actuator and the valve assembly comprises two ceramic discs, wherein the rotary actuator is mechanically connected to one of said ceramic discs.

10. Dispensing device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the dispensing device and / or the dispenser do not require electricity.

11. Water purification system, characterized in that it comprises the dispensing device, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. Method of dispensing purified water, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: (A) providing a dispensing device, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 10; Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, page 37 / 51 3 / 3 (B) providing purified water through a supply line to the dispenser; and (C) dispensing purified water through the dispenser.

13. Method according to claim 12, characterized in that the dispensing device is as defined in any one of claims 2 to 10. Petition 870250084396, dated 09 / 19 / 2025, pp. 38 / 51

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