Drinking water dispenser

Abstract

Drinking water distributor equipment is provided with a hydraulic circuit. The hydraulic circuit comprises a water inlet solenoid valve (2) in the circuit, a pump (4) connected downstream of the water inlet solenoid valve (2), a first distribution solenoid valve (6) and a second distribution solenoid valve (8) connected downstream of the pump (4), a refrigeration unit (7), a collector (9) and a distribution nozzle (10) connected downstream of the collector (9), the first and second distribution solenoid valves (6, 8) each have a first outlet (6 ', 8') connected to the nozzle (10) by means of the collector (9), the first distribution solenoid valve being provided with a second outlet (6 ") connected to an inlet of the second distribution solenoid valve (8) by means of the refrigeration unit (7), and the second distribution solenoid valve being provided with a second outlet (6") connected to an outlet of the second distribution solenoid valve (8) by means of the collector (9). Such that the first and second distribution solenoid valves (6, 8) are configured to provide distribution of room temperature water and cooling water, respectively. A second distribution solenoid valve (8) is provided with a second outlet (8 "), and a first recirculation solenoid valve (100) configured to receive cooling water distributed from the second outlet (8") of the second distribution solenoid valve (8), the first recirculation solenoid valve (100) being connected by its first outlet (100 ') to a circuit between the inlet solenoid valve (2) and the first distribution solenoid valve (6), and configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through the first outlet (100 ').

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a drinking water dispenser device provided with a hydraulic circuit, comprising:

[0002] a) Water inlet solenoid valve in the circuit,

[0003] b) a pump connected downstream of the inlet solenoid valve,

[0004] c) a first distribution solenoid valve and a second distribution solenoid valve connected downstream of the pump,

[0005] d) Refrigeration unit,

[0006] e) collector; and

[0007] f) A distribution nozzle connected downstream of said collector.

[0008] The first and second dispensing solenoid valves each have a first outlet connected to the nozzle through the collector.

[0009] The first distributing solenoid valve is provided with a second outlet connected to the inlet of the second distributing solenoid valve through the refrigeration unit.

[0010] In this way, the first and second distribution solenoid valves are configured to provide distribution of room temperature water and cooling water, respectively. Background Art

[0011] Dispensers are drinking water dispensing devices which, from a hygienic point of view, have the characteristic of being susceptible to bacterial proliferation phenomena, especially if the dispenser itself is poorly used within a hydraulic circuit.

[0012] One of the possible causes of contamination could be related to the presence of bacteria in the water pipes that supply the distributors. Regarding the water pipes themselves, the presence of bacteria is generally almost irrelevant or undetectable, but once bacteria enter the distributors, they find an environment that is conducive to bacterial growth due to the residual moisture remaining in the hydraulic circuit.

[0013] The main reasons for the presence of bacteria in water dispensers can be divided into the following categories:

[0014] The presence of bacteria in the water supply network of the water dispenser;

[0015] Low dispenser usage or long periods of non-use can lead to stagnant water and biofilm formation;

[0016] High temperatures at the distributor installation location;

[0017] The water inlet temperature of the distributor hydraulic circuit is high;

[0018] Limited maintenance of equipment.

[0019] Until now, there have been several solutions to minimize the potential for bacterial growth in these devices.

[0020] The most relevant of these is the use in water networks of solutions containing oxidizing substances, such as chlorine, which destroy the microorganisms themselves or reduce their growth.

[0021] However, this solution solves short- and medium-term problems: for example, if the dispenser thus disinfected is rarely used, the probability of bacterial growth after disinfection increases significantly.

[0022] Additionally, agents such as chlorine must be removed from the water before it is dispensed by the dispenser to protect the health of those who intend to drink the dispensed water.

[0023] For this purpose, activated carbon filters are usually installed outside the distributor or inside the distributor hydraulic circuit with the purpose of purifying the water.

[0024] The activated carbon filter thus ensures that the water that emerges from the dispenser's dispensing nozzle is as tasteless and odorless as possible and, of course, free of potentially harmful substances such as chlorine.

[0025] Inside the water dispenser, bacteria thrive because the chlorine that was properly removed from the water by the activated carbon filter is no longer present.

[0026] The possibility of bacteria in the water network, even if the bacterial count is sometimes undetectable, usually does not cause problems for human health as long as oxidizing substances (such as chlorine) are present in the water, which usually reduces bacterial growth or completely kills the bacteria.

[0027] The presence of an activated carbon filter in a water dispenser (which is appropriately installed in the water supply line to purify the water) constitutes on the one hand an advantage, making the water tasteless and free of odors and substances such as chlorine, and on the other hand makes the water very susceptible to the formation of a bacterial load, since it does not contain biocidal active ingredients. A direct consequence is the formation of biofilms, especially if the device is rarely used, making the water dispenser (irregular or incorrect use, non-use, lack of cleaning and regular maintenance) a potentially dangerous device. Bacterial growth and the resulting biofilms are particularly susceptible to growth in areas of the water system that are not cooled, under static conditions between 25 and 45°C.

[0028] However, filters end up being one of the main causes of microbial and bacterial growth. In fact, due to their porous structure, filters can block elements that provide nutrition to the bacteria themselves, such as calcium, as well as blocking those that are not needed. As mentioned above, the activated carbon filter can be installed outside the dispenser, first receiving the water from the water supply line and then delivering the water once filtered to the dispenser itself, or directly inside the hydraulic circuit of the dispenser.

[0029] Thus, in both cases, the filters are located in an area that is typically at room temperature, a factor that, combined with low usage of the dispensers and / or invariably timely replacement of the filters, may involve the formation of a biofilm on the filters themselves, which inevitably helps to promote bacterial growth in the water dispensers.

[0030] WO2012 / 178044A1 describes a device for dispensing water, comprising: a main inlet configured to receive water from a water source; a cooling water line, comprising: an online gasifier; a water inlet valve for a carbonator, configured to selectively direct water from the main inlet to the carbonator; an inlet valve for a gas of the carbonator, configured to selectively direct carbonation gas to the carbonator; and an outlet of the cooling water line. The device can be integrated into a refrigerator or other main device.

[0031] To date, there has been a lack of an effective solution to consistently reduce bacterial growth in water dispensers.

[0032] In particular, there is a need for a system capable of providing regular recirculation of low temperature water in the hydraulic circuit of the dispenser, since it is well known that stagnant water and high temperatures are two major causes of bacterial growth.

[0033] In particular, there is a need for a system that is able to provide for periodic recirculation of low temperature water in the hydraulic circuit of the distributor, even in normally non-refrigerated areas and activated carbon filters. Summary of the invention

[0034] The present invention aims to overcome the shortcomings of the aforementioned prior art through the system disclosed at the beginning, wherein the second distribution solenoid valve is provided with a second outlet, the first recirculation solenoid valve is configured to receive cooling water distributed from the second outlet of the second distribution solenoid valve, the first recirculation solenoid valve is connected to the circuit between the inlet solenoid valve and the first distribution solenoid valve through its own first outlet, and is configured to reintroduce the cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through its own first outlet.

[0035] The device according to the present invention is configured to provide:

[0036] a) dispensing still water at least at room temperature and cooled still water; and

[0037] b) Cooling water circulates in the delivery pipes and passes through the components of the hydraulic circuit.

[0038] The terms "recirculation" or "re-introduction" are used interchangeably in this disclosure and both refer to the movement of cooling water within the hydraulic circuit of a distributor.

[0039] The term "chilled water" in this patent application preferably refers to chilled still water, as well as carbonated chilled water, which will be described in detail below.

[0040] The term "hydraulic circuit" refers to a set of components connected to each other by delivery pipes, which are configured to receive water from an external water supply line and provide refrigeration and movement to dispensing nozzles in a dispenser.

[0041] Preferably, the term "hydraulic circuit" refers to the device as better described below, in particular as regards the passage of water through the above-mentioned components, which are connected to each other by conveying pipes, as better shown in the figures.

[0042] The inlet solenoid valve constitutes the inlet of water (from an external water supply line) in the delivery pipe of the hydraulic circuit supplying water to the distributor. From the inlet solenoid valve, the water reaches the pump, which pushes the water along the delivery pipe, which guides the water to the first distribution solenoid valve.

[0043] The inlet solenoid valve is preferably provided with a non-return valve.

[0044] The first dispensing solenoid valve is configured to dispense still water at room temperature and includes two outlets, preferably operable alternately.

[0045] If the dispensing solenoid valve provides for opening of the first outlet, water is delivered to said collector which directs the water to the dispensing nozzle of the dispenser from which room temperature water is then dispensed.

[0046] Alternatively, if the distribution solenoid valve provides opening of the second outlet and concomitant closing of the first outlet, said outlets preferably being operable alternately, water at room temperature is directed into the refrigeration unit, which results downstream of the second outlet of the first distribution solenoid valve.

[0047] The refrigeration unit preferably comprises a heat exchanger, such as a coil-type heat exchanger, and is configured to provide cooling of the water from the first dispensing solenoid valve.

[0048] In particular, the heat exchanger was maintained at a controlled temperature of 4°C.

[0049] The cooling water leaving the refrigeration unit reaches a second distribution solenoid valve which is also equipped with two outlets and is configured to operate alternately.

[0050] If the dispensing solenoid valve provides for opening of the first outlet, the cooling water is conveyed into said collector, which guides the cooling water to the distributor nozzle of the distributor, from which the cooling water is dispensed.

[0051] In one embodiment, the hydraulic circuit comprises one or more disinfection devices downstream of the pump, such as activated carbon filters, germicidal lamps or the like.

[0052] Furthermore, the hydraulic circuit comprises one or more elements / devices configured to be able to provide a recirculation of cooling water within the hydraulic circuit itself, which elements / devices are in hydraulic communication with each other and with the hydraulic circuit via special delivery pipes.

[0053] In particular, the system that is the object of the present invention comprises, in addition to the hydraulic circuit described, a first recirculation solenoid valve configured to receive cooling water distributed from the second outlet of the second distribution solenoid valve. The first recirculation solenoid valve, thus arranged downstream of the second outlet of the second distribution solenoid valve, is configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through its own outlet, as best shown in the figure.

[0054] Thus, if the second distribution solenoid valve of the circuit provides for the opening of the second outlet and the concomitant closing of the first outlet, the outlets can be operated alternately, the cooling water being sent to the first recirculation solenoid valve which reintroduces the cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through its own first outlet, as will be described in detail below.

[0055] Advantageously, said first recirculation solenoid valve thus provides for recirculation of cooling water within the hydraulic circuit of the distributor.

[0056] The water is cooled to a temperature comparable to that maintained by the heat exchanger, ie a controlled temperature of 4°C, advantageously in a bacteriostatic state.

[0057] In addition, the system reduces the static characteristics of the water in the circuit by providing recirculation of cooling water in the hydraulic circuit, even in cases of low dispenser usage or long periods of non-use.

[0058] The reintroduction of the cooling water is actually provided by the first recirculation solenoid valve, preferably as described above, when the outlets of the two distribution solenoid valves connected to the collector are closed.

[0059] As mentioned before, downstream of the pump, the hydraulic circuit may include one or more disinfection devices, such as activated carbon filters, germicidal lamps or the like. The germicidal lamp system may, for example, include one or more UV-C led modules with localized germicidal action.

[0060] Advantageously, the system also provides for recirculation of cooling water within the device.

[0061] In the case of a filter, this lowers the temperature of the filter itself (usually equal to that of the surrounding environment), helping to inhibit in situ the possible proliferation of microorganisms, which are known to find favorable conditions for development here.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the system includes a check valve located downstream of the outlet of the first recirculation solenoid valve, the check valve being configured to reintroduce cooling water into the circuit.

[0063] Advantageously, the presence of the non-return valve ensures that the water can travel along the delivery pipe which reintroduces the water into the hydraulic circuit only in the desired direction.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first recirculation solenoid valve comprises a second outlet.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the system includes a carbonation device and a third dispensing solenoid valve having at least one outlet, the carbonation device being configured to receive cooling water from the second outlet of the first recirculation solenoid valve and to send carbonated cooling water to the third dispensing solenoid valve, the third dispensing solenoid valve having a first outlet connected to a nozzle via a collector and being configured to provide dispensing of carbonated cooling water.

[0066] Thus, if the first recirculation solenoid valve instead provides opening of the second outlet and thus concomitant closing of the first outlet, the two outlets preferably being operated alternately, the cooling water is no longer reintroduced into the hydraulic circuit but is sent to the carbonator.

[0067] Carbonated cooling water comes out of the carbonator and is sent to the third distribution solenoid valve.

[0068] In particular, the carbonator is a component which, like the heat exchanger of the hydraulic circuit, preferably maintains a controlled temperature of 4° C. inside the dispenser.

[0069] If the third dispensing solenoid valve provides for opening of the first outlet, as already disclosed for the first and second dispensing solenoid valves, the carbonated chilled water is conveyed into said collector which directs the water to the dispensing nozzle from which it is dispensed.

[0070] Thus, the system thus described is advantageously configured to provide:

[0071] a) options for dispensing still water at room temperature, dispensing chilled still water, and dispensing carbonated chilled water, and

[0072] b) Recirculation of cooling still water in the hydraulic circuit, preferably during non-operating phases of the distribution distributor.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the system includes a check valve located downstream of the second outlet of the first recirculation solenoid valve.

[0074] Specifically, the check valve is disposed at a delivery pipe that leads cooling water from the second outlet of the first recirculation solenoid valve to the carbonation device.

[0075] Advantageously, the presence of the check valve ensures that water can travel through the delivery tube, which directs the water to the carbonator only in the desired direction.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the device object of the present invention comprises a non-return valve in communication with the carbonator, said valve being configured to provide for the introduction of carbon dioxide in order to gasify cooling water in said carbonator.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the system comprises a second recirculation solenoid valve at the outlet, the solenoid valve being configured as follows:

[0078] a) receiving carbonated cooling water dispensed from a second outlet of a third dispensing solenoid valve; and

[0079] b) Reintroducing the carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit via its own outlet.

[0080] Therefore, if the third dispensing solenoid valve does not open the first outlet (as described above, the opening of the first outlet will involve the delivery of carbonated cooling water to the collector, which will lead to the dispensing nozzle), but opens the second outlet, the carbonated cooling water is sent to the second recirculation solenoid valve, which reintroduces the carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit.

[0081] Advantageously, said second recirculation solenoid valve thus provides for the recirculation of carbonated cooling water within the hydraulic circuit of the dispenser.

[0082] The water is cooled to a temperature comparable to that maintained by the carbonator, ie a controlled temperature of 4°C, advantageously in a bacteriostatic state.

[0083] Furthermore, carbonated cooling water is even less susceptible to the risk of a possible increase in the bacterial load due to the presence of carbonic acid, which is obtained by combining water with carbon dioxide in a carbonation device.

[0084] In addition, the system reduces the static nature of the water in the circuit by providing circulation of carbonated cooling water in the hydraulic circuit, even when the dispenser is under low usage or not in use for long periods of time.

[0085] The action of reintroducing carbonated cooling water is similar to that disclosed above for cooling water and in fact is preferably provided by the second recirculation solenoid valve when the outlet of the third dispensing solenoid valve connected to the collector as described above is closed.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the system includes a check valve located downstream of the outlet of the second recirculation solenoid valve, the check valve being configured to reintroduce carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit.

[0087] Advantageously, the presence of such a non-return valve ensures that the carbonated cooling water can travel along the delivery pipe which reintroduces it into the hydraulic circuit only in the desired direction.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the first and second recirculation solenoid valves are configured to alternately provide water recirculation in the hydraulic circuit.

[0089] Therefore, the system can respectively provide:

[0090] Reintroducing cooling water into the hydraulic circuit; and

[0091] Reintroduce carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit.

[0092] According to a preferred embodiment, the device is provided with a control unit connected to the solenoid valve and configured to provide a first recirculation through the cooling still water, ie using a first recirculation solenoid valve.

[0093] This first recirculation reduces the temperature of the hydraulic circuit as a whole and in particular of the characteristic components of the hydraulic circuit previously disclosed and of the conveying pipes connecting them to one another.

[0094] Subsequently, the control unit provides a second recirculation through the carbonated cooling water, namely through the second recirculation solenoid valve.

[0095] Carbonated cooling water is even less susceptible to the risk of increased bacterial load due to the presence of carbonic acid, helping to make the entire hydraulic circuit safer with respect to possible harmful substances.

[0096] Furthermore, if disinfection devices are present in the circuit, such as activated carbon filters, which can be placed downstream of the pump, these devices will also be affected by the advantages of water recirculation.

[0097] The temperature of the filter (and usually that of the surrounding environment) actually decreases, increasing the likelihood of in situ inhibition of the possible proliferation of microorganisms, which are known to find favorable conditions for development here.

[0098] Furthermore, the presence of carbonic acid ensures an additional bactericidal effect on any microorganisms that are already in the proliferation stage on the filter itself.

[0099] According to one embodiment, the first and second recirculation solenoid valves are configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve, which is preferably equipped with a non-return valve.

[0100] Preferably, this configuration is effective when the hydraulic circuit comprises at room temperature at least one purification device, such as an activated carbon filter, in an intermediate position between the pump and the first still-water distribution solenoid valve.

[0101] Thus, the first and second recirculation solenoid valves reintroduce the cooling water and carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through a common delivery line which flows into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve prior to the pump as shown.

[0102] According to one embodiment, as an alternative to the previous embodiment, the system may comprise a filter external to and connected to the hydraulic circuit, the filter being located upstream of and communicating with the inlet valve.

[0103] In this configuration, the filter is therefore no longer located inside the hydraulic circuit, but is located at a position external to the hydraulic circuit and the distributor and functions, from a hydraulic point of view, as a connection between the distributor and the external water network supplying the water distributor.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the first and second recirculation solenoid valves are configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit via a previous flow of the cooling water into the external filter.

[0105] Thus, the first and second recirculation solenoid valves reintroduce the cooling water and carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit via a common delivery pipe which flows into the external filter as shown. From the external filter, the water can then subsequently be recirculated in the hydraulic circuit via the inlet solenoid valve, the filter and the inlet solenoid valve being in communication with each other from a hydraulic point of view.

[0106] Advantageously, even in a location external to the dispenser, the filter still benefits from the advantages of water recirculation.

[0107] The temperature of the filter, which is usually the temperature of the surrounding environment, is actually reduced, increasing the possibility of inhibiting in situ the possible proliferation of microorganisms, which are known to find favorable conditions for development here.

[0108] Furthermore, the presence of carbonic acid ensures an additional bactericidal effect on any microorganisms that are already in the proliferation stage on the filter itself.

[0109] According to this embodiment, the water then enters the hydraulic circuit at least in an already cooled state.

[0110] In one embodiment, an Ag / Cu ion enrichment module connected to the hydraulic circuit is provided.

[0111] This allows active elements such as Ag+ and Cu+ ions with antimicrobial effects to be released into the circuit in amounts far below legal standards.

[0112] During the recirculation process, the ion enrichment module releases Ag+ and Cu+ ions, which become active elements in the hydraulic circuit circulation, especially in the filter, with long-term antibacterial capacity. Silver ions are particularly active and can quickly penetrate the cell membrane of bacteria; they interact with enzymes and other proteins present in bacteria, causing them to lose viral activity, and bind to microbial DNA and RNA, preventing cell replication. Copper ions are toxic to pathogenic microorganisms and especially affect the protein structure of pathogenic microbial spores, preventing their respiration and thus their formation.

[0113] The control unit controls the above functions according to specific algorithms, also thanks to the presence of appropriate sensors along the hydraulic circuit, in particular conductivity measuring sensors and optionally pH measuring sensors. Both types of sensors can be used to check the state of the circuit after a scheduled disinfection or carbonated water recirculation and, in longer periods, for a possible analysis of the ongoing fermentation in case of dead water and long periods of inactivity.

[0114] Due to the modularity of the circuit, special optical absorption / refractive sensors can also be provided for counting specific particles of suspended pollutants or pathogens.

[0115] The collection of all modules disclosed allows the disinfection (not sterilization) of the dispenser to be maintained for a longer period of time in addition to the normal process of periodic disinfection, thereby extending the mandatory time window for periodic maintenance / disinfection and reducing the cost of using the water dispenser without affecting the quality of the product. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0116] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following disclosure of some embodiments thereof illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0117] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water into a hydraulic circuit using an internal filter of a distributor capable of dispensing room temperature still water and cooled still water;

[0118] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water into a hydraulic circuit utilizing an internal filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated cooled water;

[0119] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a third embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water and carbonated cooling water into a hydraulic circuit using an internal filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated cooling water;

[0120] Figure 4 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water into a hydraulic circuit using an external filter of a distributor capable of dispensing room temperature still water and cooled still water;

[0121] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of a fifth embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water into a hydraulic circuit using an external filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated cooled water;

[0122] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a sixth embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water and carbonated chilled water into a hydraulic circuit using an external filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated chilled water;

[0123] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of a seventh embodiment of a system configured with an internal filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated cooled water without reintroducing water into the hydraulic circuit;

[0124] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an eighth embodiment of a system configured to reintroduce cooled still water and carbonated chilled water into a hydraulic circuit utilizing an internal filter of a dispenser capable of dispensing room temperature still water, cooled still water, and carbonated chilled water is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0125] Specifically, Figure 1 A first embodiment of a system 1 for recirculating water in a hydraulic circuit is shown, the system having an internal filter of a dispenser configured to dispense still water at room temperature and cooled still water. The system 1 comprises a hydraulic circuit comprising an inlet solenoid valve 2 for water coming from an external water supply line, the inlet solenoid valve 2 being provided with a non-return valve 3, a pump 4 configured to push the water along a delivery pipe which guides the water through an activated carbon filter 5 and subsequently to a first dispensing valve 6. The first dispensing solenoid valve 6 comprises two outlets 6' and 6", which are configured to operate alternately. Through the first outlet 6', still water at room temperature is delivered to a collector 9 and to a nozzle 10, which is provided for dispensing water from the dispenser.

[0126] When the first outlet 6' is open, water entering the first dispensing solenoid valve 6 can only be directed to the nozzle 10. In contrast, when the second outlet 6" is open, water reaching the first solenoid valve 6 is sent to the refrigeration unit 7, which is provided with a coil-shaped heat exchanger and is preferably cooled to 4°C.

[0127] Here, the water is cooled and then reaches the second distribution solenoid valve 8, which also comprises two outlets 8' and 8", which are configured to be actuated in an alternating manner.

[0128] When the first outlet 8 ′ is open, the cooled, still water leaving the heat exchanger 7 can therefore only flow to the collector 9 and from there to the distribution nozzle 10 .

[0129] In the system 1 , when the second outlet 8 ″ is open, the cooling still water leaving the heat exchanger 7 enters the second distribution solenoid valve 8 to the subsequent first recirculation solenoid valve 100 which is configured to reintroduce the cooling still water into the hydraulic circuit.

[0130] Indeed, once the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 receives the cooled still water from the second distribution solenoid valve 8 , it can recirculate the still water in the hydraulic circuit through a delivery pipe, starting from the outlet 100 ′ and comprising the non-return valve 101 , flowing into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve 2 .

[0131] Figure 2 A second embodiment of a water recirculation device 1 in a hydraulic circuit is shown, the device having an internal filter 5 of a dispenser configured to dispense still water at room temperature, cooled still water and carbonated cooled water. Figure 1 In addition to what is described, the system comprises a second outlet 100″ for the first recirculation solenoid valve 100, a carbonator 12 and a third dispensing solenoid valve 13 having an outlet 13′. Thus, the first recirculation solenoid valve 100, instead of the possibility of reintroducing the cooled still water into the hydraulic circuit via its outlet 100′, makes it possible to convey the cooled still water to the carbonator 12, in particular by passing it through the non-return valve 11 situated downstream of the second outlet 100″ of the first recirculation solenoid valve 100. Once the cooled still water has entered the carbonator 12, it mixes with the carbon dioxide blown into the carbonator 12 itself through the non-return valve 12′, producing carbonated cooled water.

[0132] The carbonated cold water is then sent to the third dispensing solenoid valve 13 which delivers the carbonated cold water through its outlet 13 ′ into the collector 9 and from there to the dispensing nozzle 10 .

[0133] Figure 3A third embodiment of a system 1 for recirculating water in a hydraulic circuit is shown, having an internal filter 5 of a dispenser configured to dispense still water at room temperature, cooled still water and carbonated cooled water. In particular, in addition to what has been disclosed so far, the device 1 also comprises a second outlet 13″ of a third dispensing solenoid valve 13 and a second recirculation solenoid valve 102 configured for reintroducing carbonated cooled water into the hydraulic circuit.

[0134] Therefore, as an alternative to the possibility of letting the carbonated cooling water flow into the collector 9 through its first outlet 13', the third dispensing solenoid valve 13 can send the carbonated cooling water through the second outlet 13" to the second recirculation solenoid valve 102, which reintroduces it into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve 2 through its outlet 102'. In particular, the carbonated cooling water, once leaving the second recirculation solenoid valve 102, passes through the non-return valve 103 on the way to being reintroduced into the hydraulic circuit.

[0135] For the purpose of recirculation, the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 and the second recirculation solenoid valve 102 are preferably operable sequentially, that is, the device first provides recirculation of cooling still water through the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 to cool the temperature of the hydraulic circuit, and secondly provides recirculation of carbonated cooling water through the second recirculation solenoid valve 102, thereby providing additional disinfection in the hydraulic circuit by carbonic acid, which is the result of the combination of water and carbon dioxide. The solenoid valves 6, 8, 13, 100 and 102 are controlled by a control unit not shown in the figure.

[0136] Figure 4 A fourth embodiment of a water circulation system 1 in a hydraulic circuit with an external filter of a distributor is shown. In particular, the embodiment shown here is similar to Figure 1 The same embodiment as in , but this time the activated carbon filter 5 is placed outside the hydraulic circuit and therefore outside the same distribution distributor.

[0137] The first recirculation solenoid valve 100 no longer directly reintroduces the cooled still water into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve 2, but sends the water to the filter 5, which is located outside the hydraulic circuit, in particular, upstream of the inlet solenoid valve 2 and communicates with the inlet solenoid valve 2. Therefore, the filter 5 receives the cooled still water from the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 and reintroduces it into the hydraulic circuit through the inlet solenoid valve 2.

[0138] Figure 5 A fifth embodiment of a water circulation system 1 in a hydraulic circuit with an external filter of a distributor is shown. In particular, the embodiment shown here is similar to Figure 2The same embodiment as in , but this time the activated carbon filter 5 is placed outside the hydraulic circuit and therefore outside the same distribution distributor.

[0139] Similar to Figure 4 The solenoid valve 100 described in the embodiment of the present invention delivers the cooling water to the external filter 5 through its outlet 100', which is located upstream of the inlet solenoid valve 2 and communicates with it. The filter 5 then reintroduces the cooling water into the hydraulic circuit of the distributor. Alternatively, similar to Figure 2 As described in , when the outlet 100' of the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 is closed, the first recirculation solenoid valve 100 can deliver cooled still water to the carbonation device 12 through its second outlet 100", in particular by passing it through the check valve 11 located downstream of the second outlet 100" of the first recirculation solenoid valve. Once the cooled still water enters the carbonation device 12, it mixes with the carbon dioxide blown into the carbonation device 12 itself through the check valve 12' to produce carbonated cooled water.

[0140] The carbonated cold water is then sent to the third dispensing solenoid valve 13 which delivers the carbonated cold water through its outlet 13 ′ into the collector 9 and from there to the dispensing nozzle 10 .

[0141] Figure 6 A sixth embodiment of a water circulation system 1 in a hydraulic circuit with an external filter 5 of a distributor is shown. In particular, the embodiment shown here is similar to Figure 3 The embodiment in is the same, but this time the activated carbon filter 5 is located outside the hydraulic circuit and therefore outside the same distribution distributor.

[0142] The first and second recirculation solenoid valves 100 and 102 of the system 1 respectively provide:

[0143] a) reintroducing the cooling water into the hydraulic circuit for the first time through the outlet 100' of the first recirculation solenoid valve 100, and

[0144] b) subsequently reintroduced into the hydraulic circuit of carbonated cooling water through the outlet 102' of the second recirculation solenoid valve 102,

[0145] In particular, said reintroduction provides a preceding flow of water which must be recirculated in an external filter which is in direct hydraulic contact with said outlet of the recirculation solenoid valve 100 , 102 .

[0146] Figure 7 An embodiment of the system is shown in which water is not reintroduced into the hydraulic circuit. Figure 2 , 3 In the examples of , 5, 6 and 8, the path of the hydraulic circuit is as follows:

[0147] a. Water enters the water distributor through the main solenoid valve 2 or the safety solenoid valve equipped with a check valve 3.

[0148] b. Water flows out from the main solenoid valve 2 and enters the pump 4.

[0149] c. Water leaves the pump 4 and enters the filter 5.

[0150] d. The water leaves the filter 5 and enters the solenoid valve 6 for dispensing room temperature water.

[0151] e. Water leaves the solenoid valve 6 for dispensing room temperature water and enters the coil 7.

[0152] f. The water leaves the coil 7 and enters the solenoid valve 8 which distributes the cooling water.

[0153] g. Water leaves the solenoid valve 8 for dispensing cold water and enters the carbonator 12.

[0154] h. Water leaves the carbonator 12 and enters the solenoid valve 13 for dispensing carbonated water.

[0155] i. All dispensing solenoid valves are connected in parallel through a collector connected to the dispensing nozzle 10.

[0156] Also shown in the figure is a cooling system 17 which is common to all described embodiments.

[0157] A UV-C type germicidal LED lamp module 15 and an Ag / Cu type ion enrichment module 16 are preferably connected in series downstream of the filter 5 .

[0158] The UV-C 15 module performs a local reduction of the suspended biomass, reducing the circulating bacteria load to zero.

[0159] The ion enrichment module 16 releases active elements such as Ag+ and Cu+ ions into the loop.

[0160] The ion enrichment module 16 is based on the concept of controlled electrolysis, releasing metal ions from the anode to the cathode. The mechanical action generated by the polarity reversal and the water flow prevents the deposition of metal ions on the cathode.

[0161] There are two pairs of copper electrodes 160 and silver electrodes 161 with independent control circuits. The present invention prevents complete flow of ions from one electrode to the other by the pressure of the water flow, by the pump 4 which draws the ions into the hydraulic circuit, and because the ion enrichment module 16 is configured to perform alternating polarization of the electrodes 160 and 161.

[0162] In particular, if the pump 4 is turned on, the electrodes 160 and 161 are polarized alternately, however, the polarization has a very short period (calculated based on the flow rate and pressure of the water), which prevents the formation of colloids (colloids have no biocidal effect) and the deposition of oxides or salts on the negative electrode.

[0163] Without surface deposits (oxides and salts) and suspended colloids to prevent or reduce the enrichment of water ions, silver and copper rods will slowly wear out.

[0164] The measurement of water conductivity, carried out by inserting appropriate probes at different points of the circuit (upstream and downstream of the filter), guarantees real-time control of the presence of metal ions and any colloids, guaranteeing maximum biocidal effect without compromising water quality and safety.

[0165] Furthermore, electrodes 160 and 161 are always polarized in pairs with the same metal (Cu-Cu and Ag-Ag), and never simultaneously. The electrodes are driven by a FULL H BRIDGE type driver that allows the electrodes to alternately become positive or negative (zero potential relative to the distributor's power supply, or, for larger flow devices, possibly connected to the ground of the electrical system), and to remain de-energized in a "floating" potential state when complementary torque is active.

[0166] This refers to enrichment, not water ionizers, since the release of ions is controlled, the ion flow is incomplete and the electrolytic cycle is prevented (except in a minimal way and in any case mixed in the water flow, there is no production of O2 or H2).

[0167] Furthermore, there is no mention of alkaline ionized water or acidic water, since there is no separator (electrolytic cell) for positive and negative ions downstream, it is H+ and OH- ions mixed in the flow (produced by the same enrichment).

[0168] Figure 8 An embodiment is shown, which has a similar Figure 3 The configuration shown for reintroducing water into the hydraulic circuit and the internal filter 5. This embodiment is provided with Figure 7 A germicidal lamp module 15 and an ion enrichment module 16 are shown, along with a water conductivity probe 14. This and other probes and sensors may also be provided in other embodiments.

[0169] A control unit, not shown in the figure, may be configured to measure parameters such as the amount and type of water dispensed, the time interval between dispense phases, ambient temperature, salinity, to determine the risk profile for bacterial growth.

[0170] The present invention significantly reduces the risk of bacterial growth and biofilm formation using two main factors:

[0171] Reduce the static nature of water;

[0172] lowering the temperature of the water contained in the internal water circuit of the water distributor,

[0173] Lower the temperature of the internal or external filter,

[0174] Control the pH of your water.

[0175] Part of the water circuit inside the water distributor comprises cooled still water, so that the water contained therein, in particular the water contained in the coils of the exchanger 7, is kept at a controlled temperature of 4°C and is therefore in a bacteriostatic state.

[0176] Carbonated water is typically stored in a pressurized tank called a carbonator 12, which is also typically cooled to 4° C. Carbonated water is less susceptible to the risk of increased bacterial load due to the presence of carbonic acid (low pH) produced by the water combining with CO2.

[0177] The present invention includes the use of still chilled water and carbonated chilled water to regulate the temperature and volume of water in a non-chilled water distribution circuit including filter 5 .

[0178] As mentioned above, the water circuits in the water distributors are connected in cascade to each other; using this hydraulic scheme, the carbonator feed pump 12 is also used to recirculate the cold water contained in the coil heat exchanger 7 in the circuit of the internal and external water distributors including the activated carbon filter 5, so as to reduce the temperature of the components and the water contained therein.

[0179] The recirculation of water is made possible by the addition of a bypass solenoid valve 100 which allows the pump, when operating in recirculation mode, to take cold water from the outlet of the coil exchanger and pump it into the circuit by recirculating it in the circuit.

[0180] The activation of this function can be automatically controlled by the control unit by controlling the above parameters.

[0181] The recirculation function significantly reduces biofilm formation; in fact, in addition to reducing the temperature of the hydraulic circuit of the non-cooled WD, it also eliminates the static nature of the water, which is a decisive factor in biofilm formation.

[0182] Can be Figure 7 and 8 The embodiments provide Figure 4 , 5 and 6 , in particular the external filter 5 .

[0183] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain preferred embodiments have been shown in the drawings and described in detail.

[0184] It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments shown, but is intended to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

1. A drinking water dispenser device provided with a hydraulic circuit, comprising: a) a water inlet solenoid valve (2) in the circuit; b) a pump (4) connected downstream of the inlet solenoid valve (2); c) a first distribution solenoid valve (6) and a second distribution solenoid valve (8) connected downstream of the pump (4); d) Refrigeration unit (7); e) a collector (9), and f) a dispensing nozzle (10) connected downstream of the collector (9); The first and second dispensing solenoid valves (6, 8) each have a first outlet (6', 8') connected to the nozzle (10) through the collector (9); The first distribution solenoid valve is provided with a second outlet (6") connected to the inlet of the second distribution solenoid valve (8) through the refrigeration unit (7), so that the first and second distribution solenoid valves (6, 8) are configured to provide distribution of room temperature water and cooling water respectively; It is characterized in that The second distribution solenoid valve (8) is provided with a second outlet (8"), a first recirculation solenoid valve (100) configured to receive cooling water distributed from the second outlet (8") of the second distribution solenoid valve (8), the first recirculation solenoid valve (100) is connected to the circuit between the inlet solenoid valve (2) and the first distribution solenoid valve (6) through its first outlet (100'), and the first recirculation solenoid valve (100) is configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through the first outlet (100').

2. The device (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The recirculation solenoid valve (100) includes a second outlet (100"), a provided carbonation device (12) and a third dispensing solenoid valve (13) having a first outlet (13'), wherein the carbonation device (12) is configured to receive cooling water from the second outlet (100") of the first recirculation solenoid valve (100) and deliver the carbonated cooling water to the third dispensing solenoid valve (13), wherein the third dispensing solenoid valve has the first outlet (13') connected to the nozzle (10) through the collector (9) to provide dispensing of carbonated cooling water.

3. The device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising at least one second recirculation solenoid valve (102) located at the outlet (102'), the second recirculation solenoid valve (102) being configured to receive carbonated cooling water dispensed from the second outlet (13") of the third dispensing solenoid valve (13) and to reintroduce the carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit through the outlet (102').

4. Device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein: The first and second recirculation solenoid valves (100, 102) are configured to provide recirculation of water in the hydraulic circuit alternately with each other.

5. Device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein: The first and second recirculation solenoid valves (100, 102) are configured to reintroduce cooling water into the hydraulic circuit downstream of the inlet solenoid valve (2).

6. Device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising an internal filter (5) connected to said hydraulic circuit downstream of said inlet solenoid valve (2).

7. Device (1) according to one or more of claims 1 to 5, comprising an external filter (5) connected to the hydraulic circuit upstream of the inlet solenoid valve (2).

8. The device (1) according to claim 7, wherein: The first and second recirculation solenoid valves (100, 102) are configured to reintroduce the cooling water or carbonated cooling water into the hydraulic circuit by flushing the cooling water or carbonated cooling water into the external filter (5) in advance.

9. Device (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein: The Ag / Cu ion enrichment module is configured to be connected to the hydraulic circuit.

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