Dosing device and dosing apparatus

Abstract

Dosing device for dosing a predetermined quantity of a fluid to be dosed, comprising a support structure defining a main axis, a first end and a second end, said support structure comprising a first line comprising: a second housing open at least at the second end; a first duct connected to a source of one of the fluids to be dosed and to a fluid passage in the second housing; a shutter element; said dosing device comprising: a mobile element; said support structure comprising a second line comprising a second duct; the second duct being connected to a fluid passage of tanks of a cleaning fluid and of a drying fluid and being open; the second duct comprising a second through cavity extending within the mobile element; a collection element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a dispensing device.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a dispensing device. Similar devices are described in patent applications WO-A-02 / 07867 and IT-A-201900001969. Background Technology

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a dispensing device for the production of mixtures, primarily but not limited to colored mixtures, through high-precision dispensing of fluid products.

[0004] Dosing devices for fluid products are currently known. In many industries, batch preparation, primarily of colored products, and therefore achieved through the high-precision sequential dosing of individual fluid components, is extremely important for ensuring the highest goals of repeatability, traceability, and authenticability of mixtures.

[0005] Fluid dispensing devices are manufactured to dispense individual components. These devices can be separate channels for individual components, and in which, for each component, there are means to facilitate flow rate adjustment and dispensing accuracy of the individual fluid to be dispensed.

[0006] The limitation of developed dispensing devices is their ability to provide good flow control performance while ensuring excellent accuracy. To make the flow regulation of individual fluids more efficient, dispensing devices that allow for fine adjustment in individual channels have been manufactured. Specifically, patent IT102022000003845, filed March 2, 2022, describes a fluid dispensing valve and a fluid dispensing device equipped with such a valve. The described valve allows for fine control of the amount of individual fluid components entering the final dispensing.

[0007] The described prior art contains some important drawbacks.

[0008] In particular, known dispensing devices cannot guarantee the high precision required to accurately prepare mixtures. They also do not allow for easy maintenance. Summary of the Invention

[0009] In this context, the technical objective of the present invention is to design a dispensing device and a device for supporting the dispensing device that can substantially overcome at least some of the aforementioned disadvantages.

[0010] Within the scope of the technical task described above, an important objective of the present invention is to obtain a dispensing device and dispensing equipment capable of effectively dispensing the supply fluid.

[0011] Another important objective of this invention is to obtain a dispensing device capable of achieving high dispensing accuracy.

[0012] An additional important objective of the present invention is to provide a dispensing device and dispensing equipment that can reduce manual adjustments and make maintenance operations easier. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The features and advantages of the present invention will be illustrated below by referring to a detailed description of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the dispensing device and dispensing equipment according to the present invention is shown.

[0015] Figure 2 A top view of the dispensing device and dispensing equipment according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0016] In this document, when measurements, values, shapes, and geometric references (such as perpendicularity and parallelism) are associated with words such as “approximately” or other similar terms (such as “almost” or “substantially”), they should be understood to exclude measurement errors or inaccuracies due to production and / or manufacturing variations, and, most importantly, the deviation from the associated value, measurement, shape, or geometric reference is less than a minor deviation. For example, if associated with a value, these terms preferably indicate a deviation of no more than 10% of the value itself.

[0017] Furthermore, when using terms such as “first,” “second,” “upper,” “lower,” “primary,” and “secondary,” they do not necessarily identify order, priority, or relative position, but they can simply be used to more clearly distinguish different components from one another.

[0018] Unless otherwise stated, as reflected in the following discussion, terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “determining,” and “calculating” are considered to refer to the actions and / or processes of a computer or similar electronic computing device that manipulate and / or convert data represented as physical quantities (e.g., electronic quantities recorded in a computer system and / or memory) into other data represented as physical quantities within a computer system, recording, or other information storage, transmission, or display device.

[0019] Unless otherwise indicated, the measurements and data reported herein should be considered to have been performed in accordance with the International Standard Atmosphere ICAO (ISO 2533:1975).

[0020] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the device according to the invention is generally indicated by the numeral 1. It is a dispensing device. Specifically, it is a dispensing valve. More specifically, it is a device for dispensing a predetermined amount of fluid to be dispensed. For example, the fluid to be dispensed can be a liquid product, a liquid dispersion, or a paste. The fluid to be dispensed can also be a resin, a paste, or a colored solution. The dispensing fluid is preferably dispensed by gravity. For example, it can be dispensed by a pump or pressure. The dispensing fluid is preferably dispensed into an external container. One or more dispensing fluids are dispensed into the external container.

[0021] The device 1 preferably includes a structure 10. This is a support structure. In this respect, it defines a main shaft 1a. Preferably, the structure 10 extends primarily along the main shaft 1a. For example, it may have a cylindrical shape, with its axis coinciding with the main shaft 1a.

[0022] Structure 10 preferably defines a first end 10a and a second end 10b opposite to the first end 10a in a direction parallel to the main axis 1a.

[0023] For example, the first end 10a may be the end of the structure 10, which is suitable to be placed at a greater distance from the ground than the second end 10b.

[0024] Structure 10 preferably includes a first housing 11. It can be housed in a first end 10a. Specifically, the first housing 11 can be open, for example, accessible from the outside. The first housing 11 preferably defines a first inlet 11a. This can be an inlet to the first housing 11 located at a greater distance from the ground.

[0025] Structure 10 preferably includes a first pipeline 100, which is a conduit configured to allow flow of the fluid to be dispensed.

[0026] Specifically, the first pipeline 100 preferably includes a plurality of second housings 12. These can extend from the first end 10a to the second end 10b.

[0027] Each second housing 12 preferably has an opening at least at a second end 10b. They can be radially distributed around the main axis 1a. For example, the second housings 12 can be distributed circumferentially along the main axis 1a. Preferably, each second housing 12 extends primarily along a corresponding secondary axis 3a. Each secondary axis 3a is an axis parallel to the main axis 1a. Furthermore, each second housing 12 can extend from the first end 10a to the second end 10b.

[0028] The second housing 12 can be arranged radially around the main axis 1a in the structure 10.

[0029] The first housing 11 is preferably connected to the fluid channel of the second housing 12.

[0030] For example, each of the second housings 12 can be accessed from the first housing 11 through the first through-hole 12a.

[0031] Each second housing 12 preferably defines a second opening 12b, which is a through hole placed in the first end 10a.

[0032] Furthermore, each second housing 12 preferably defines a third opening 12c. This is a through hole located in the second end 10b. Each third opening 12c is adapted to discharge a measured amount of fluid. Therefore, an external container can be placed at the third opening 12c. Specifically, the external container can be placed closer to the ground than the third opening 12c.

[0033] The first pipeline 100 preferably includes first conduits 13. These are channels adapted to introduce the fluid to be dispensed. Furthermore, they are also adapted to allow undispensed fluid to flow. Specifically, the fluid to be dispensed can be supplied to each of the first conduits 13. Additionally, each of the first conduits 13 is connected to a source fluid channel of one of the fluids to be dispensed. Each of the first conduits 13 is connected to a fluid channel in the second housing 12.

[0034] Each first conduit 13 defines a first hole 13a through a first end of the first conduit 13 and a second hole 13b through a second end of the first conduit 13 opposite to the first end.

[0035] Therefore, the first orifice 13a is adapted to allow the fluid to be dispensed to enter the first conduit 13. It can be an orifice into which the fluid to be dispensed is supplied. For example, the fluid to be dispensed can be supplied into the first conduit 13. Specifically, the first orifice 13a is preferably connected to a source fluid channel of the fluid to be dispensed.

[0036] Specifically, the fluid to be dispensed can be supplied from a source connected to the fluid passage of the first inlet port 13a. This source may include a tank containing the fluid to be dispensed and a passage connecting the tank and the fluid passage of the first inlet port 13a. The first inlet port 13a may include a shut-off valve for regulating the flow rate of the fluid to be dispensed.

[0037] The second orifice 13b can be the outlet orifice of the fluid to be dispensed from the first conduit 13. Specifically, each second orifice 13b connects the corresponding first conduit 13 to the fluid passage of the corresponding second housing 12. In this way, the fluid to be dispensed supplied to the first conduit 13 can be transported to the second housing for dispensing.

[0038] Structure 10 advantageously includes a second pipeline 101. This is a conduit configured to allow the flow of cleaning fluid. These preferably comprise a cleaning agent solution. Furthermore, the second pipeline 101 is configured to allow the flow of drying fluid. This preferably comprises gas. Additionally, the second pipeline 101 is configured to allow the flow of undispensed fluid. This preferably comprises undispensed fluid to be dispensed. Furthermore, they include residual fluid to be dispensed. The second pipeline 101 advantageously facilitates both cleaning and drying operations and enables maintenance of device 1.

[0039] The second pipeline 101 preferably includes a recirculation pipeline 101a, which is a pipeline connected to a fluid passage in the first pipeline 13. In particular, the recirculation pipeline 101a is preferably designed to allow undispensed fluid passing through the first pipeline 13 to flow into a tank of fluid to be dispensed.

[0040] Specifically, at least the first conduit 13 preferably defines a third through-hole 13c. Specifically, each third through-hole 13c is located in the intermediate portion of the corresponding first conduit 13 between the first through-hole 13a and the second through-hole 13b. In this respect, the third through-hole 13c can be connected to the fluid passage of the recirculation line 101a. The latter is connected to the fluid passage of the tank containing the fluid to be dispensed. The third through-hole 13c is preferably adapted to allow undispensed fluid passing through the first conduit 13 to flow into the tank containing the fluid to be dispensed. The recirculation line 101a has the advantage of preventing sediment formation in the fluid to be dispensed when the device 1 is not in use. Furthermore, undispensed fluid removed from the first conduit 13 can advantageously be reused. In fact, it can be returned to the first conduit 13.

[0041] The first conduit 100 preferably includes shutter elements 3. These are adapted to allow or prevent the flow of the fluid to be dispensed from the first conduit 13 through the second housing 12 to the external environment at the second end 10b.

[0042] They perform the function of enabling the fluid to be dispensed from the first conduit 13. The fluid to be dispensed preferably becomes the dispensed fluid once it is dispensed into the container below.

[0043] Each shutter element 3 is an element that extends primarily along the secondary axis 3a. Preferably, each shutter element 3 has a radial extension around the secondary axis 3a. Even more preferably, the extension of each shutter element 3 along the secondary axis 3a is greater than its radial extension around the same axis.

[0044] Each shutter element 3 is housed in a corresponding second housing 12. Specifically, each shutter element 3 defines a first portion 30. At the first portion 30, the shutter element 3 has a radial extension about a secondary axis 3a, which is smaller than the radial extension of the portion of the shutter element 3 closer to the first portion 30.

[0045] The shutter element 3 is housed in a corresponding second housing 12. In particular, each shutter element 3 is conveniently inserted into the second housing 12 so that it can be translated along the secondary axis 3a.

[0046] In detail, each shutter element 3 defines a second portion 31. This is preferably an extreme portion of the shutter element 3. The second portion 31 is adapted to reversibly block the corresponding third opening 12c. Specifically, the second portion 31 preferably includes a head 31a. This head is adapted to regulate the flow rate of the fluid to be dispensed in response to movement of the shutter element along the secondary axis 3a.

[0047] It is a portion that extends radially higher than the portion of the shutter element 3 near the second portion 31 relative to the secondary axis 3a. The head 31a can be an element firmly attached to the second portion 31. For example, the head 31a can include a rounded end. In this respect, the third opening 12c can include an edge portion 120. The latter performs the function of contacting the head end 31a to block the third opening 12c. In this respect, the end of the head 31a can be partially reverse-formed with the edge portion 120. In this way, the end of the head 31a can effectively close the third opening 12c. For example, the edge portion 120 can be a rigid ring constrained to the edge of the third opening 12c.

[0048] As the position of the shutter element 3 changes, the distance between the head 31a and the second part 31 adjusts the flow rate of the fluid to be dispensed in the third opening 12c.

[0049] Typically, each shutter element 3 is advantageously positioned within its corresponding second housing 12 to prevent or allow the flow of the fluid to be dispensed.

[0050] In this respect, each shutter element 3 defines at least one open position. Specifically, when the shutter element 3 is in the open position, the second portion 31 is spaced apart from the third opening 12c. In this way, the fluid to be dispensed from the first conduit 13 and through the second hole 13b can be supplied to the second housing 12 and flow out therefrom via the third opening 12c.

[0051] The shutter element 3 defines the closed position. Specifically, when the shutter element 3 is in the closed position, the second part 31 closes the third opening 12c.

[0052] The shutter element 3 can be reversibly switched from the closed position to the open position. The amount of fluid dispensed through the third opening 12c depends on the duration of the shutter element 3's transition from the closed position to the open position and then back to the closed position, the maximum distance reached by the second part 31 from the third opening 12c when the shutter element 3 is in the open position, and the speed at which the shutter element 3 transitions from the closed position to the open position and back to the closed position.

[0053] A positioning element may be positioned between each second housing 12 and the corresponding shutter element 3. For example, the latter may be a compression spring whose shaft is aligned with the secondary shaft 3a. The positioning element advantageously holds the shutter element 3 in the closed position without applying stress to the shutter element 3 itself.

[0054] Device 1 preferably includes sealing elements 32. Each of these may be a gasket. They are adapted to at least block the passage of fluid.

[0055] The device 1 preferably includes support elements 33. Each support element 33 is a rigid element constrained to a corresponding second housing 12. For example, it may be a threaded ring screwed into the internal thread portion of the second housing 12. Specifically, the threaded ring is oriented such that it is centered on the secondary axis 3a. Each support element 33 is in contact with a sealing element 32.

[0056] Each support element 33 is adapted to support the corresponding sealing element 32.

[0057] Each sealing element 32 and its corresponding support element 33 are preferably placed in the portion of the corresponding second housing 12 near the first end 10a.

[0058] Structure 10 preferably includes a first cavity 110, which is accessible from a first end 10a. Specifically, it is accessible from the first housing 11. Furthermore, the first cavity 110 is accessible from a second end 10b.

[0059] The first cavity 110 is preferably aligned with the main shaft 1a. Even more preferably, the first cavity 110 extends primarily along the main shaft 1a.

[0060] The device 1 includes a moving element 2, which is designed to move the shutter element 3. Specifically, the moving element 2 can be a lever. More specifically, the moving element 2 can be an element extending along a main axis 1a. The moving element 2 is preferably housed in a first cavity 110. It is constrained by a structure perpendicular to the main axis 1a. Therefore, the moving element 2 can move within the first cavity 110 by translating along the main axis 1a and rotating about the same axis.

[0061] The device 1 preferably includes a selection element 5. This element is integrally constrained by the moving element 2. Specifically, it may be an element extending primarily in a direction perpendicular to the main shaft 1a. The selection element 5 preferably includes a distal portion 50 located away from the moving element 2. The distal portion 50 is preferably shaped in the opposite direction to the first portion 30.

[0062] Each first part 30 is preferably placed at the corresponding first through hole 12a.

[0063] In detail, the selection element 5 is adapted to engage the selected shutter element 3. Specifically, the selection element 5 can engage the shutter element 3 by inserting the distal portion 50 into the first portion 30. Furthermore, when the moving element 2 moves along the main axis 1a, the selection element 5 transmits translational motion to the shutter element 3. As a result, the shutter element 3 can move from the closed position to the open position and vice versa, depending on the movement made by the moving element 2.

[0064] Furthermore, the selection element 5 allows the shutter element to be selected by rotating the moving element 2. In fact, the moving element 2 can be rotated such that the selection element 5 is positioned at the selected shutter element 3, and the distal portion 50 engages the first portion 30 of the selected shutter element 3.

[0065] The distal portion 50 can enter the first through hole 12a and engage with the corresponding first portion 30.

[0066] Typically, the selected shutter element 3 is preferably configured by the moving element 2 to move along the secondary axis 3a. Specifically, the movement is accomplished by the selection element 5. Thus, in response to the movement, the shutter element 3 can allow or block the passage of one of the measured fluids to the external environment at the second end 10b.

[0067] The second pipeline 101 preferably includes a recirculation collection channel 14. It is preferably located on the periphery of the structure 10. Specifically, it may be placed near the outer wall of the structure 10. The collection channel 14 may be placed near the fourth opening 12d. Specifically, the collection channel 14 is located at a lower distance from the ground than the fourth opening 12d.

[0068] Preferably, the collection channel 14 is adapted to collect excess undispensed fluid that may flow out from the first housing 11 or the second housing 12. More specifically, the collection channel 14 is adapted to collect excess undispensed fluid that may flow out from the fourth opening 12d.

[0069] The collection channel 14 may include an inclined bottom and a gradually decreasing distance from the ground as it approaches the main shaft 1a. In this way, it is easier to confine any excess undistributed fluid collected.

[0070] Therefore, the fourth opening 12d and the collection channel 14 allow for the efficient removal of any excess undispensed fluid and prevent it from flowing uncontrollably into other areas of the device 1.

[0071] Each second housing 12 preferably includes a fourth through-hole 12d. Specifically, the fourth through-hole 12d is located on the outer wall of the structure 10. Therefore, the fourth through-hole 12d is located on the wall of the structure 10, further away from the main shaft 1a. Specifically, the fourth through-hole 12d is adapted to connect the second housing 12 to the fluid passage of the collection channel 14. Specifically, they advantageously allow the discharge of any undistributed fluid that may accumulate in the second housing 12. They advantageously prevent the accumulation of undistributed fluid in the structure 10.

[0072] Similarly, the second conduit 101 preferably includes a plurality of fifth openings 11b. These are located on the outer wall of the structure 10. Thus, the fifth openings 11b are located on the wall of the structure 10, further away from the main shaft 1a. Specifically, the fifth openings 11b are adapted to connect the first housing 11 to the fluid passage of the collection channel 14. In detail, the fifth openings 11b advantageously allow the discharge of any undistributed fluid that may accumulate in the first housing 11. They advantageously prevent the accumulation of undistributed fluid in the structure 10.

[0073] The second pipeline 101 preferably includes a first discharge pipeline. This is a pipeline adapted to connect the collection channel 14 to an external discharge environmental fluid channel. The first discharge pipeline advantageously allows undistributed fluid accumulated inside the structure 10 to be transported to the outside of the device.

[0074] The second pipeline 101 preferably includes a collection element 6. This can be a water collection area. The collection element 6 is adapted to prevent undispensed fluid from dripping into the external container or the ground, to collect the undispensed fluid, and to allow the dispensing of one of the selected dispensing fluids.

[0075] In detail, the collecting element 6 may be loosely constrained to the second end 10b. For example, the collecting element 6 may define a bottom portion. The latter may preferably be conical, with the walls converging at a smaller distance from the ground, preferably centered on the main axis 1a. Specifically, the collecting element 6 is positioned at all the third openings 12c. In detail, the collecting element 6 is located at a shorter distance from the ground than the fourth opening 12c. Therefore, the collecting element 6 is adapted to collect any undispensed fluid that may leak from the fourth opening 12c. Thus, its function is to prevent unwanted droplets of undispensed fluid lost from the unselected fourth opening 12c from entering the outer container into which the dispensed fluid drips.

[0076] Furthermore, it may include transverse walls along the edges. The latter may extend primarily in a direction parallel to the main axis 1a. Thus, the collecting element 6 may include a wall protruding toward the second end 10b and a bottom positioned at a distance greater than the distal portion of the wall from the second end 10b.

[0077] The collecting element 6 is preferably constrained as a whole to rotate together with the moving element 2 around the main axis 1a.

[0078] Specifically, the collecting element 6 may have a substantially disk-shaped form. For example, it may include a cylindrical wall projecting from an edge. The cylindrical wall may include a loose restraint device. The latter may include a cylindrical wall projecting from a second end 10b and at least partially reverse-formed with respect to the cylindrical wall of the collecting element 6. For example, the cylindrical wall projecting from the edge of the collecting element 6 may be rotatable relative to the cylindrical wall projecting from the second end 10b.

[0079] The disc-shaped collecting element 6 can be centered on the main shaft 1a. In particular, it can define a constraint portion 60. The latter is preferably constrained to the moving element 2. Furthermore, the constraint portion 60 can be centered on the main shaft 1a. The collecting element 6 can rotate integrally with the moving element 2.

[0080] The collecting element 6 preferably includes a selection hole 61, which is a through hole located in the bottom portion. The selection hole 61 is adapted to allow the passage of a measured amount of fluid dispensed from a predetermined third opening 12c.

[0081] For example, the collecting element 6 can be oriented such that the selection hole 61 is located at the third opening 12c corresponding to the shutter element 3 selected by the positioning selection element 5.

[0082] Therefore, the collecting element 6 advantageously performs the function of dispensing the volumetric fluid from the third opening 12c at the selected shutter element 3 and preventing accidental spillage of undispensed fluid from any other unselected third opening 12c. In this way, the dispensing of the volumetric fluid collected in the external container is more accurate.

[0083] The movable element 2 preferably defines a third end 20, which is the end positioned near the first end 10a.

[0084] Furthermore, the movable element 2 preferably defines a fourth end 21, which is the end opposite to the third end 20. Additionally, the fourth end 21 is positioned close to the second end 10b.

[0085] The collecting element 6 is preferably constrained at the fourth end 21.

[0086] It can correspond to the rotation center of collecting element 6.

[0087] The second conduit 101 preferably includes a second conduit 15. This conduit is adapted to deliver cleaning fluid and drying fluid to at least a second end 10b. Therefore, the second conduit 15 advantageously allows cleaning and drying outside the shutter 3 and prevents previously dispensed fluid from drying and forming scale. In this respect, the cleaning fluid includes a cleaning agent solution. For example, it can be a solution containing water, a solvent, and a surfactant. The drying fluid can include a gas. For example, it can include air.

[0088] The second pipe 15 is preferably connected to the fluid channel of the cleaning fluid tank.

[0089] The second conduit 15 is preferably connected to the fluid channel of the dry fluid tank. In particular, the latter can be a container containing pressurized gas. For example, the container can be a compressed air tank.

[0090] Furthermore, the second conduit 15 preferably opens in the external environment near the second end 10b.

[0091] In detail, the second conduit 15 includes an inlet channel 150. It is adapted for the input of cleaning fluid or drying fluid within the second conduit 15. The inlet channel 150 preferably includes a first inlet hole, which is the inlet port of the inlet channel 150 connected to the fluid channel of the cleaning fluid supply conduit. Therefore, cleaning fluid can advantageously be supplied to the first inlet hole during cleaning of the cleaning apparatus 1.

[0092] The inlet channel 150 preferably includes a second inlet port. This is the inlet port of the inlet channel 150 connected to the fluid channel of the drying fluid supply conduit. Therefore, the drying fluid can advantageously be supplied into the second inlet port during the drying process of the drying apparatus 1. The presence of both the first and second inlet ports is advantageous because it allows the inlet conduits for the cleaning fluid and the drying fluid to remain separate. In this way, the corresponding tanks or cylinders can be easily connected without having to connect and disconnect different conduits when switching from cleaning to drying.

[0093] The second conduit 15 preferably includes a third housing 151. This is a portion of the second conduit connected to the fluid passage of the inlet conduit 150. It is a housing designed to accommodate the movable element 2. The movable element 2 can slide relative to the third housing 151 along the main shaft 1a. The third housing 151 is preferably sealed. In this way, the cleaning fluid supplied to the third housing 151 will not disperse to the outside.

[0094] The third housing 151 preferably includes a pair of sliding openings 15a. These openings are aligned and centered on the main shaft 1a. The moving element 2 is received in the two sliding openings 15a and can be positioned relative to them for translation and rotation. In detail, the two sliding openings 15a preferably include a sealing assembly 15b. The latter can contact the moving element 2. The sealing assembly 15b is designed to prevent cleaning fluid or drying fluid from escaping from the third housing 151. In this way, the moving element 2 can advantageously slide along the main shaft 1a without causing fluid leakage through the interior of the third housing due to its movement.

[0095] Preferably, the moving element 2 includes a second cavity 152, which is a cavity extending inside the moving element 2. Specifically, it is connected to a fluid passage in the third housing 151. More specifically, the second cavity 152 includes a through-hole, which connects the third housing 151 to the fluid passage in the cavity 152.

[0096] The second conduit 15 preferably includes a nozzle 153. It is preferably connected to the fluid passage of the second cavity 152. Furthermore, the nozzle 153 is preferably open to the external environment. The nozzle 153 is configured to spray one of a cleaning fluid and a drying fluid from the second cavity into the external environment near the second end 10b. In this way, the cleaning fluid from the second cavity can be atomized by the nozzle 153 and sprayed outwards as an atomized jet. The jet containing the cleaning fluid allows for cleaning of the third opening 12c. Furthermore, it allows for cleaning of exposed portions. Similarly, the nozzle 153 allows for the spraying of a jet of drying fluid during the drying phase of the third opening 12c.

[0097] The inlet channel 150, the third housing 151, and the through cavity 152 and nozzle 153 connected to the third housing 151 through the through hole form the second pipe 15.

[0098] In this respect, the collecting element 6 is preferably connected to the fluid channel of the second discharge pipe 62. This pipe is designed to deliver liquid collected on the surface of the collecting element 6 facing the second end 10b to the discharge environment. Specifically, the fluid may include undispensed fluid and residual cleaning fluid. In this way, at least the undispensed fluid removed from the surface projected by the jet stream and the cleaning fluid used in the cleaning process can be removed from the device 1 at the end of the cleaning process.

[0099] The second discharge pipe 62 can be placed at the lowest ground clearance portion of the bottom section. In this way, due to the inclined wall of the collecting element 6, the liquid to be removed slides into the second discharge pipe 62, and the delivery of residual liquid is more efficient.

[0100] The device 1 preferably includes a closing element 7. This can be an element with a main planar extension. For example, the closing element 7 can be a disc. Therefore, it can be oriented such that the main extending plane is both an orthogonal plane and a plane perpendicular to the main axis 1a. The closing element 7 is constrained at a first end 10a. In particular, the closing element 7 can be constrained at a first inlet 11a. Therefore, the closing element 7 is adapted to prevent entry into the first housing 11 from the outside along the main axis 1a. In this way, moving components inside the first housing 11 cannot directly enter during use of the device 1, thus enhancing its safety.

[0101] For example, the inlet channel 150 and the third housing 151 can be inside the enclosure element 7. More specifically, the first inlet port and the second inlet port can be located on the outer portion of the enclosure element 7.

[0102] In addition, the sliding opening 15a can be placed on two opposite surfaces of the disk along the main axis 1a.

[0103] For example, the structure of the moving element 2 can be essentially in the form of a rod including a second passage 152, which allows the inlet passage 150 within the closed element 7 to be connected to the fluid passage of the collecting element 6 via a nozzle 153 that allows fluid to be discharged to the collecting element 6.

[0104] The device 1 preferably includes a drive element 4, which is constrained by a moving element 2. Specifically, the drive element 4 is configured to move the moving element 2. Specifically, the drive element 4 preferentially moves the moving element 2 along the main axis 1a by translational motion. Specifically, the moving element 2 can occupy all positions along the main axis 1a between two extreme positions.

[0105] In addition, the drive element 4 transmits rotational motion around the main shaft 1a to the moving element 2.

[0106] Device 1 preferably includes a control device. In particular, the control device may be electronic.

[0107] The control device is operatively connected to at least drive element 4.

[0108] Another object of the present invention is a dispensing device 9. It includes a device 1. Specifically, the device 9 is a device designed to dispense a fluid to be dispensed. In particular, it preferably includes a first supply conduit. As previously described, these are connected to the fluid passage of the device 1. They are configured to supply the fluid to be dispensed to the device 1.

[0109] Device 9 preferably includes a second supply conduit. These conduits are preferably connected to the fluid channel of device 1. They are configured to supply cleaning fluid to device 1.

[0110] Device 9 preferably includes a third supply conduit. These conduits are preferably connected to the fluid channel of device 1. Furthermore, they are configured to supply dry fluid to device 1.

[0111] The control device is operatively connected to the first supply pipe, the second supply pipe and the third supply pipe.

[0112] Device 9 preferably includes a support structure. It is preferably constrained to device 1. Furthermore, the support structure is operatively connected to a control device. The support structure is configured to support device 1. Moreover, the support structure is configured to move device 1 along a main axis 1a. Therefore, device 1 can translate along the main axis 1a. In this respect, the support structure preferably includes moving devices 90. These are devices connected to device 1 and configured to move device 1 along the main axis 1a.

[0113] Specifically, they may include an arm constrained to structure 10. The arm may be able to slide along a linear guide. For example, the linear guide may allow the arm to slide along an axis parallel to the main shaft 1a. This solution advantageously allows for adjustment of the distance between device 1 and the external container. In fact, by being able to move relative to container device 1, device 9 can be used with containers of different sizes, making device 9 versatile.

[0114] Preferably, the moving device 90 is operatively connected to the control device. The latter is also configured to move the device 1 along the main shaft 1a in response to a command from the control device.

[0115] The device 9 preferably includes position sensors 91. These sensors are designed to detect the distance between the device 1 and the external container. In this respect, the position sensors 91 can be placed at the device 1. Specifically, they can be placed at the second end 10b.

[0116] Position sensor 91 is operatively connected to control devices. These control devices are also configured to receive values ​​detected by position sensor 91. Furthermore, the control devices are configured to select a predetermined range of distance values. Preferably, the control devices are also configured to command movement of the moving device 90 until the detected distance value matches the predetermined range value.

[0117] In this way, device 9 advantageously allows for the automation of adjusting the distance between device 1 and the external container.

[0118] Therefore, device 9 advantageously allows for effective control of the dripping of the dosing fluid during dosing. In this way, splashing can be prevented when droplets of the dosing fluid fall into the interior of the outer container.

[0119] Device 9 preferably includes a weighing device. Alternatively, device 1 includes a weighing device. In particular, they may include analog or digital scales. Alternatively, the weighing device may include a load cell. Specifically, the weighing device is adapted to measure the weight of a volumetric fluid. They are operatively connected to a control device.

[0120] An external container can be placed on a weighing device. In this way, the dispensed volumetric fluid is collected in the external container and simultaneously weighed by the weighing device.

[0121] Preferably, the control device is further configured to select the fluid to be dispensed. Furthermore, the control device is preferably configured to select a predetermined quantity of the selected fluid to be dispensed. Therefore, the selection of the fluid to be dispensed and the predetermined quantity can be automatic.

[0122] Alternatively, the selection can be made by the user. For example, the control device can be operatively connected to a control interface. This can include a manual actuator or a touchscreen display. In this way, the user can command the selection of the fluid to be dispensed and the predetermined quantity.

[0123] The control device is preferably configured to send a drive command to the drive element 4. In response to the command, the drive element 4 moves the moving element 2, which orients the selection element 5 at the shutter element 3 corresponding to the selected amount of fluid to be dispensed. Therefore, the drive element 4 moves the shutter element 3. Thus, the control device advantageously allows the dispensing of the selected fluid until the weighing device measures the predetermined amount. Alternatively, the supply can be interrupted by the user.

[0124] Therefore, the control device can automatically measure the predetermined amount and then command the shutter element 3 to reposition to the closed position.

[0125] Alternatively, the user can command the supply to be interrupted. In particular, the user can stop the distribution when reading the weight value corresponding to the predetermined amount.

[0126] The operation of the previously described structural devices 1 and 9 is as follows.

[0127] In the dispensing operation, the fluid to be dispensed is selected via a control device. Specifically, the moving element 2 is rotated until the selecting element 5 engages with the shutter element 3 of the second housing 12 connected to the first conduit 13 into which the selected fluid flows. Specifically, the selecting element 5 engages with the selected shutter element 3 at its first portion 30.

[0128] The fluid to be dispensed is supplied to the first conduit 13. In each conduit used during the dispensing process, the fluid flows to the corresponding second orifice 13b, which is blocked when the shutter element 3 is in the closed position. The moving element 2 is moved by the drive element 4, translating along the main shaft 1a. Translating the shutter element 3 to the open position allows the fluid to be dispensed to flow inside the second housing 12. When the control device detects that the amount of fluid to be dispensed in the outer container measured by the weighing device corresponds to a predetermined amount, the shutter element 3 returns to the closed position. In this way, the predetermined amount of fluid to be dispensed is dispensed through the third opening 12c. It can pass through the selection hole 61 and fall into the outer container. Distance adjustment is performed by the control device in response to the reading of the distance value between the dispensing device 1 and the outer container by the position sensor 91.

[0129] During the cleaning operation, cleaning fluid can be supplied to the second conduit 15. It can flow within the cavity 152 until it is atomized by the nozzle 153. The atomized cleaning fluid is sprayed onto the second end 10b and the third opening 12c, where these areas are cleaned and fluid residue is removed. Droplets of cleaning fluid and any undispensed fluid are collected on the bottom portion of the collecting element 6. From the bottom portion, the liquid flows into the second discharge conduit 62.

[0130] When excess liquid is present in the second housing 12 or the first housing 11, it can be discharged into the fourth opening 12d or the fifth opening 11b to the collection channel 14. From the collection channel 14, the undispensed excess fluid can flow into the first discharge pipe.

[0131] The apparatus 1 and device 9 according to the invention achieve important advantages.

[0132] In effect, it achieves efficient dosing of the supplied fluid. The presence of the fourth opening 12d and the fifth opening 11b effectively prevents the device from being undesirably filled with undosed excess fluid. These fluids are advantageously discharged through the discharge channel.

[0133] Device 1 enables high dispensing accuracy.

[0134] Furthermore, the adjustable distance between the device and the external container in device 9 prevents splashing, which could lead to a reduction in the amount of dispensed fluid supplied to the external container if splashing causes the first batch of liquid to fall outside the external container. Another advantage is the ability to use collection containers of different sizes.

[0135] Furthermore, apparatus 1 and device 9 simplify maintenance operations. In fact, the channelization for conveying cleaning fluid for cleaning and conveying drying fluid for drying advantageously allows these operations to be performed without additional assembly and subsequent disassembly of the specific equipment used to perform cleaning and drying. In effect, these operations can be advantageously performed directly.

[0136] This invention can be modified to create different versions that fall within the scope of the inventive concept defined by the claims.

[0137] In this case, all details can be replaced by equivalent components, and any material, shape, and size can be used.

Claims

1. A dispensing device (1) for dispensing a predetermined amount of a fluid to be dispensed, the fluid comprising a liquid product, a liquid dispersion, and a solvent, the dispensing device (1) comprising a support structure (10) defining a main shaft (1a), a first end (10a), and a second end (10b) opposite to the first end (10a) along the main shaft (1a), the support structure (10) comprising a first line (100) configured to allow flow of the fluid to be dispensed, and comprising: A plurality of second housings (12) extending from the first end (10a) to the second end (10b), each second housing (12) having an opening at least at the second end (10b), and each second housing (12) extending along a corresponding secondary axis (3a) parallel to the main axis (1a); First conduit (13), the first conduit (13) being adapted to introduce the fluid to be dispensed, each first conduit (13) being connected to a source of one of the fluids to be dispensed and a fluid channel in the second housing (12); Shutter elements (3), each shutter element (3) is housed within one of the second housings (12) and is adapted to allow or prevent the flow of the fluid to be dispensed from the first conduit (13) through the second housing (12) to the environment outside the second end (10b), the fluid to be dispensed becoming dispensed fluid once dispensed into the external container; The dispensing device (1) includes: A moving element (2) adapted to move along the main axis (1a), rotate about the main axis (1a) and move the shutter element (3); Selection element (5), said selection element (5) is constrained by said moving element (2) and adapted to engage one of the selected shutter elements (3); The selected shutter element (3) is set by the moving element (2) to move along the secondary axis (3a) via the selection element (5), and in response to the movement, allows or prevents one of the dispensed fluids from passing through the external environment at the second end (10b), the dispensed fluid being gravity-distributed into the external container; Its features are: The support structure (10) includes a second pipeline (101) configured to allow flow of a cleaning fluid comprising a cleaning agent solution, flow of a drying fluid comprising a gas, and flow of an undispensed fluid comprising a residue of the undispensed fluid and the fluid to be dispensed. The second pipeline (101) includes: The second conduit (15) is adapted to deliver the cleaning fluid and the drying fluid to at least the second end (10b). The second conduit (15) is connected to the tank of cleaning fluid and the tank of drying fluid, and is open at least near the external environment at the second end (10b); The second conduit (15) includes a second cavity (152) extending within the movable element (2); Collection element (6) is designed to prevent undispensed fluid from dripping into the external container or the ground, to collect the undispensed fluid, and to allow the dispensing of one of the selected dispensing fluids.

2. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the collecting element (6) is constrained to rotate together with the moving element about the main shaft (1a), the collecting element (6) comprising: Selection orifice (61), said selection orifice (61) being adapted for the passage of dispensed amount of fluid; A second discharge pipe (62) is adapted to deliver liquid collected on the collection element (6) to the discharge environment.

3. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second pipeline (101) includes a collection channel (14) adapted to collect any undispensed excess fluid that may flow out from the second housing (12), the collection channel (14) including a first discharge pipe adapted to connect the collection channel (14) to an external discharge environment fluid channel.

4. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 3, wherein each second housing (12) includes a fourth through hole (12d) designed to connect the second housing (12) to the fluid passage of the collection channel (14).

5. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each second housing (12) extends substantially along a secondary axis (3a) parallel to the main axis (1a), each second housing (12) includes a third opening (12c) located at a second end (10b), the third opening (12c) being adapted to dispense the dispensing fluid, the third opening (12c) including an edge portion (120), each shutter element (3) defining a second end (31) adapted to reversibly block the corresponding third opening (12c), the second end (31) including a head (31a), the flow rate of the fluid dispensed into the third opening (12c) being adjusted by the distance between the head (31a) and the second end (31) as the position of the shutter element (3) changes.

6. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the head (31a) extends radially above the portion of the shutter element (3) near the second end (31) relative to the secondary axis (3a).

7. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second line (101) includes a recirculation line (101a) connected to a fluid passage in the first pipe (13), the recirculation line (101a) enabling the undispensed fluid passing through the first pipe (13) to flow to a tank of fluid to be dispensed.

8. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The second conduit (15) includes an inlet channel (150) connected to a tank of cleaning fluid and a tank of drying fluid, the inlet channel (150) being adapted for entry of the cleaning fluid or the drying fluid into the second conduit (15). The second conduit (15) includes a third housing (151) connected to the fluid passage of the inlet channel (150), the third housing (151) being sealed and capable of accommodating a portion of the movable element (2); The moving element (2) includes a second cavity (152), which is connected to the fluid channel of the third housing (151); The second conduit (15) includes a nozzle (153) connected to the fluid passage of the second cavity (152) and open to the external environment. The nozzle (153) is configured to spray one of the cleaning fluid and the drying fluid from the second cavity (152) into the external environment near the second end (10b).

9. The dispensing device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the support structure (10) includes a first housing (11) at the first end (10a), the first housing (11) being fluidly connected to the second housing (12), the first housing (11) including a first inlet (11a) further from the ground, the dispensing device (1) including a sealing element (7) designed to prevent entry from the outside along the main axis (1a) into the first housing (11), the sealing element (7) constraining the first end (10a) at the first inlet (11a), the inlet channel (150) and the third housing (151) being located within the sealing element (7).

10. A dispensing device (9) comprising a dispensing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, a first conduit connected to a fluid channel of the dispensing device (1) and configured to supply the fluid to be dispensed to the dispensing device (1), a second conduit connected to a fluid channel of the dispensing device (1) and configured to supply the cleaning fluid to the dispensing device (1), a third conduit connected to a fluid channel of the dispensing device (1) and configured to supply the drying fluid to the dispensing device (1), an electronic control device operatively connected to the first conduit, the second conduit, the third conduit, and the dispensing device (1), and a support structure constrained to the dispensing device (1) and configured to support the dispensing device (1), the support structure including a moving device (90) connected to the first conduit, the second conduit, the third conduit, and the third conduit. The dispensing device (1), the control device, and the dispensing device (1) are configured to move along the main shaft (1a) in response to a command from the control device, are adapted to detect the weight of the dispensed fluid, and are operably connected to the weighing device of the control device. The external container is positioned on the weighing device. The control device is also configured to select the fluid to be dispensed, select a predetermined amount of the selected fluid to be dispensed, send a drive command to a drive element (4), the drive element (4) moving the moving element (2) in response to the command, the moving element (2) orienting the selection element (5) at the shutter element (3) corresponding to the selected fluid to be dispensed, moving the shutter element (3), and allowing the dispensing of the fluid corresponding to the selected fluid to be dispensed until the weighing device measures the predetermined amount.

11. The dispensing device (9) according to claim 10, comprising: A position sensor (91) is operatively connected to the control device and adapted to detect a value of the distance between the dispensing device (1) and the external container; The control device is also configured to receive the detection value from the position sensor (91), select a predetermined range of distance values, and command the movement of the mobile device (90) until the detection value of the distance corresponds to a value within the predetermined range.

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