A system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto and a relative method

Abstract

A system (50) is disclosed that comprises a tap (1) for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, which comprises: a main body (2) which comprises a first outlet (3) for dispensing water towards outside and a second outlet (8) for dispensing gas towards outside; a pressurised tank (7) containing a gas; an injector (9) which is couplable to the second outlet (8) and which extends, when coupled to the second outlet (8), starting from the second outlet (8), towards outside; a second valve (11) which: is interposed between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); comprises: a first valve inlet (12) which is connected to the first gas inlet conduit (10); a first valve outlet (13) which is connected to the main body (2); a second valve outlet (14) which is connected to the outside; is configured to assume: an operating configuration (CO): in which fluid communication is permitted between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); a non-operating configuration (CN): in which fluid communication is permitted between the main body (2) and the outside. The tap (1) is configured in such a way that, during use, when the second valve (11) assumes the operating configuration (CO), the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) are in fluid communication with one another so that the gas is dispensed in order to be added to the water.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical sector concerning taps for dispensing water in a domestic and / or residential context.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, and to a relative method.

[0003] It is known that to obtain fizzy water it is necessary to mix CO 2 with water.

[0004] For this purpose, today automatic or manual carbonators are available in commerce.

[0005] In the first case, the dispensed product is fizzy water as the mixture of water and CO 2 takes place prior to dispensing; while in the second case the dispensed produce is CO 2 gas which, in turn, is dispensed into a bottle of water, previously filled, and mixed thereto.

[0006] Automatic carbonators are fixed carbonators as they are directly connected to the municipal water supply.

[0007] Manual carbonators are instead movable carbonators as they have a pressurised tank containing gas that is positionable in the casing of the carbonator itself.

[0008] However, in both cases the reality is small domestic electrical devices, which are purchasable to make domestic water fizzy.

[0009] Therefore, in a case where it is necessary to make tap water fizzy in one's own home, it is necessary to acquire one of the above-described carbonators.

[0010] In the light of the above, the aim of the present invention consists in obviating the above-mentioned drawbacks.

[0011] Another aim of the present invention is to provide a system comprising a tap which is able to dispense water and, at the same time, to add a gas to the dispensed water.

[0012] The above aims have been attained using a system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto according to claim 1 and to a method for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto according to claim 11.

[0013] With the system and the method, object of the present invention, it will advantageously be possible to dispense the water from the municipal water supply and at the same time to add a gas thereto, without having recourse to the purchase of an electric domestic appliance: in fact, the main body of the tap is in connection with the first water inlet conduit, which is to be connected to a municipal water supply, to dispense water from the first outlet, and is in connection with the first gas inlet conduit, which is to be connected to the pressurised tank, in order to dispense the gas from the second outlet.

[0014] In this way, the gas is dispensed from the injector, which is directly connected to the second outlet, so as to ensure the mixing of the gas in the water that has been previously dispensed.

[0015] Further, the second valve, when assuming the non-operating configuration, guarantees that the internal pressure in the container, already containing water and ready to receive the gas, since it is coupled to the second outlet, is identical to atmospheric pressure.

[0016] Specific embodiments of the invention will be described in the following part of the present description, according to what is set down in the claims and with the aid of the accompanying tables of drawings, in which: figure 1 is a view of the system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, object of the present invention and according to a first embodiment; figure 2 is a view of the system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, object of the present invention and according to a second embodiment; figure 3 is a view of the system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, object of the present invention and according to a third embodiment; figure 4 is a view of the system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, object of the present invention and according to a fourth embodiment; figure 5 is a detail view of figure 3; figure 6 is a detail view of figure 1; figures 7-9 are alike figure 6, according to further embodiments of the tap, object of the present invention; figure 9B is a view of detail K of figure 9, according to a further embodiment of the injector; figures 7A, 8A and 9A are detail views of the positioning element, respectively, of figures 7, 8 and 9; figures 10 and 11 are schematic views of the second valve when it assumes, respectively, the non-operating configuration and the operating configuration; figures 12 and 13 are schematic views of the second valve when it assumes, respectively, the non-operating configuration and the operating configuration, according to a second embodiment.

[0017] With reference to the appended tables of drawings, generic reference number (50) relates to a system for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, comprising: a tap (1) which comprises: a main body (2) which comprises a first outlet (3) for dispensing water towards outside; a first water inlet conduit (4) to be connected to a municipal water supply; a first valve (5) which is interposed between the main body (2) and the first water inlet conduit (4) and which is activatable so as to assume a first configuration in which it enables fluid communication between the first water inlet conduit (4) and the main body (2) and a second configuration in which it prevents the fluid communication between the first water inlet conduit (4) and the main body (2); a handle (6) which is connected to the first valve (5) in order to activate the first valve (5).

[0018] The system (50) further comprises a pressurised tank (7) containing a gas and the main body (2) comprises a second outlet (8) for dispensing gas towards outside; and the system (50) further comprises: an injector (9) which is couplable to the second outlet (8) and which extends, when coupled to the second outlet (8), starting from the second outlet (8), towards outside; a first gas inlet conduit (10) which is arranged so as to connect the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) to one another; a second valve (11) which: is interposed between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); comprises: a first valve inlet (12) which is connected to the first gas inlet conduit (10); a first valve outlet (13) which is connected to the main body (2); a second valve outlet (14) which is connected to the outside. The second valve (11) is configured to assume: an operating configuration (CO): wherein the first valve inlet (12), the first valve outlet (13) and the second valve outlet (14) are connected to one another in order to enable the fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2) and in order to prevent fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside; a non-operating configuration (CN): wherein the first valve inlet (12), the first valve outlet (13) and the second valve outlet (14) are connected to one another in order to enable the fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside and to prevent fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2).

[0019] The system (50) is configured in such a way that, during use, once the injector (9) is coupled to the second outlet (8) in such a way that it is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into a container, when the second valve (11) assumes the operating configuration (CO), the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) are in fluid communication with one another so that the gas is dispensed from the second outlet (8) in order to be added to the water and, when the second valve (11) assumes the non-operating configuration (CN), the main body (2) and the outside are in fluid communication with one another (see figures 1-4).

[0020] In the present description, the tap (1) may be understood to be a tap of a domestic dwelling.

[0021] In other words, the tap may be understood to be a dwelling.

[0022] The tap (1) can comprise a first auxiliary conduit for water inlet (15) which extends along the main body (2) and which is arranged so as to connect the first outlet (3) and the first water inlet conduit (4) to one another.

[0023] The first valve (5) can be arranged interposed between the first water inlet conduit (4) and the first auxiliary conduit for water inlet (15).

[0024] The main body (2) can be hollow in order to receive the first auxiliary conduit for water inlet (15).

[0025] The first outlet (3) and the second outlet (8) can be arranged at the free end of the main body (2) (see figures 1, 3 and 4).

[0026] In figures 1-4, the first auxiliary conduit for water inlet (15) has been partially illustrated.

[0027] The tap (1) can comprise a second water inlet conduit (16) to be connected to the municipal water supply.

[0028] Further, the tap (1) can comprise a second auxiliary conduit for water inlet (17) which extends along the main body (2) and which is arranged so as to connect the first outlet (3) and the second water inlet conduit (16) to one another.

[0029] In figures 1-4, the first auxiliary conduit for water inlet (15) and the second auxiliary conduit for water inlet (17) have been partially illustrated.

[0030] The first water inlet conduit (4) is advantageously for cold water inlet; while the second water inlet conduit (16) is for hot water inlet.

[0031] By way of example, the gas can be CO 2 or O 2 or N 2 o H 2 or O 3 .

[0032] In detail, in a case in which the gas is CO 2 it will be possible to produce gassed water.

[0033] The tap (1) of the present invention will advantageously make the dispensed water fizzy directly from the tap (1) itself, with a mixing of the water and the CO 2 internally of a container.

[0034] When the second valve (11) assumes the operating configuration (CO), the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) are open to allow fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); while the second valve outlet (14) is closed to prevent fluid communication between the outside and the main body (2) and between the outside and the first gas inlet conduit (10) (see figures 11 and 13).

[0035] Instead, when the second valve (11) assumes the non-operating configuration (CN), the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) are connected to one another in order to enable the fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); while, the second valve outlet (14) is opened to enable the fluid communication between the outside and the main body (2) (see figures 10 and 12).

[0036] The activation of the second valve (11) to assume the operating configuration (CO) and the non-operating configuration (CN) can be manual or automatic.

[0037] With reference to the first embodiment, the first outlet (3) and the second outlet (8) can be two separate outlets (see figure 1).

[0038] In a first embodiment of the invention, during use, it will be necessary to arrange a container, initially, at the position of the first outlet (3) so that water is dispensed internally thereof, and, thereafter, at the second outlet (8) in order for the gas to be dispensed internally thereof, in order for the gas to be dispersed in the water.

[0039] Alternatively, with reference to the second embodiment, the first outlet (3) and the second outlet (8) can coincide (see figure 2).

[0040] In this second embodiment of the invention, during use, it will be necessary to arrange a container at the second outlet (8), so that water can be dispensed internally thereof and, while still keeping the container positioned at the outlet (8), the gas can be dispensed into the water present internally of the container (see figure 2).

[0041] The tap (1) preferably comprises: a first gas outlet conduit (18) which extends along the main body (2), starting from the first valve outlet (13) up to the second outlet (8); a positioning element (19) for maintaining the first gas outlet conduit (18) in position and which is arranged in the main body (2), at the second outlet (8), so as to be crossed by the first gas outlet conduit (18) in such a way as to maintain the first gas outlet conduit (18) in a predetermined position with respect to the main body (2) (see figures 7-9, 7A, 8A and 9A).

[0042] The positioning element (19) advantageously ensures the correct positioning of the first gas outlet conduit (18) so that the steps of coupling the injector (9) to the second outlet (8) and, therefore, the coupling and connection between the first gas outlet conduit (18) and the injector (9).

[0043] The first gas outlet conduit (18) and the first valve outlet (13) can be directly connected to one another.

[0044] The first gas inlet conduit (10) and the first valve inlet (12) can be directly connected to one another.

[0045] Further, the injector (9) can be coupled to the second outlet (8) so as to be arranged to be directly connected to the first gas outlet conduit (18) (see figure 9B).

[0046] The positioning element (19) can comprise a first seal ring (20) which is arranged to contact the internal wall of the main body (2) and a second seal ring (21) which is arranged along the first gas outlet conduit (18) (see figures 7-9).

[0047] In other words, the positioning element (19) can be arranged in such a way that the second seal ring (21) laterally surrounds the first gas outlet conduit (18).

[0048] Advantageously, the first seal ring (20) and the second seal ring (21), by being arranged interposed between the second outlet (8) and the injector (9), guarantee the sole passage of the gas, preventing the possibility of a water return into the main body (2).

[0049] According to this embodiment of the tap (1), the positioning element (19) and the injector (9) can be directly coupled to one another (see figure 9B).

[0050] In other words, the injector (9) can be borne by the positioning element (19) (see figure 9B).

[0051] With particular reference to the embodiment illustrated in figure 9B, the injector (9) and the first gas outlet conduit (18) can be directly connected to one another so that, during use, the gas flows through the first gas outlet conduit (18) and the hollow body (25) in order to be dispensed, and dispersed in the water, at the free end (27).

[0052] The positioning element (19) can comprise a through-hole (22) which is conformed so as to be crossed by the first gas outlet conduit (18) in such a way that the positioning element (19) maintains the first gas outlet conduit (18) in position (see figures 7-9).

[0053] The tap (1) can comprise an aerator (23) which is removably coupled to the main body (2), at the second outlet (8).

[0054] According to this embodiment, with reference to figures 8 and 8A, the aerator (23) can be arranged upstream, along the water dispensing flow, with respect to the positioning element (19).

[0055] Alternatively, the positioning element (19) can comprise a portion (24) which forms an aerator (see figures 9 and 9A).

[0056] With reference to this embodiment, in this case too, as illustrated in figure 9, the positioning element (19) comprises the first seal ring (20) and the second seal ring (21) described above.

[0057] The injector (9) preferably comprises a hollow body (25) having a first through-hole (26) and a free end (27) for dispensing gas; the injector (9), during use, is coupled to the second outlet (8) in such a way that the free end (27) is immersed in the water into which the gas will be added (see figures 1-6).

[0058] Once the container has been arranged, and has water inside it, at the second outlet (8), positioning the injector (9) in such a way that the free end (27) thereof is immersed in the water and the relative first through-hole (26) is in the portion of the container not occupied by the water, on termination of the dispensing of the gas in the water, any excess pressure internally of the container will advantageously be conveyed, via the first through-hole (26) and the first gas outlet conduit (18), towards the second valve (11) so that it can be discharged towards the outside through the second valve outlet (14), when the second valve (11) assumes the non-operating configuration (CN).

[0059] With particular reference to figure 5, the injector (9) and the second outlet (8) can be connected to one another so that the first gas outlet conduit (18) and the inside of the hollow body (25) are directly connected to one another.

[0060] With particular reference to the embodiment of the second valve (11) of figures 10 and 11, the second valve (11) can comprise: a button (28) which comprises the second valve outlet (14) and which forms an internal conduit (29), which internal conduit (29) is in communication with the second valve outlet (14); an internal chamber (30) which comprises an abutment wall (31) and which is in communication with the internal conduit (29), with the first valve inlet (12), the first valve outlet (13) and the second valve outlet (14).

[0061] The button (28) can be slidably movable along the internal chamber (30) so as to assume a first position (P1) in which fluid communication is enabled between the outside and the internal conduit (29), through the second valve outlet (14), and a second position (P2) in which it prevents the fluid communication between the outside and the internal conduit (29), through the second valve outlet (14) (see, respectively, figure 10 and figure 11).

[0062] Further, the second valve (11) can comprise: an opening and / or closing element (32) which is interposed between the internal chamber (30) and the first valve inlet (12) and which is connected to the button (28); elastic means (33) which are arranged interposed between the opening and / or closing element (32) and the abutment wall (31) and which are configured in such a way that, during use: the sliding of the button (28) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), determines the compression of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13); while the sliding of the button (28) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1), determines the dilation of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) (see figures 10 and 11).

[0063] In detail, the button (28) can be slidably movable between a first endrun stop (F1) and a second end run stop (F2) (see figures 10 and 11).

[0064] The button (28) can comprise a central body (34) in turn comprising at least a protuberance (35).

[0065] The internal chamber (30) can comprise a second abutment wall (36) which forms the first endrun stop (F1).

[0066] When the button (28) assumes the first position (P1) and, therefore, is positioned at the first endrun stop (F1), the button positions in such a way that the at least a protuberance (35) and the second abutment wall (36) are in contact with one another (see figure 10).

[0067] The internal conduit (29) can be extended along the central body (34).

[0068] The opening and / or closing element (32), when the elastic means (33) are under maximum compression, forms the first endrun stop (F2) (see figure 11).

[0069] The elastic means (33) can comprise a first spring (37) which is borne by the opening and / or closing element (32).

[0070] Further, the elastic means (33) can comprise a second spring (38) which is arranged interposed between the button (28) and the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to connect them to one another.

[0071] When the button (28) assumes the first position (P1), the opening and / or closing element (32) can be moved to close the first valve inlet (12) (see figure 10); while, when the button (28) assumes the second position (P2), the opening and / or closing element (32) can be moved to close the first valve inlet (12) (see figure 11).

[0072] Alternatively to the embodiment described in the foregoing, and with reference to the embodiment illustrated in figures 12 and 13, the second valve (11) can comprise: a button (28); an internal chamber (30) which comprises an abutment wall (31) and which is in communication with the first valve inlet (12), with the first valve outlet (13) and with the second valve outlet (14).

[0073] The button (28) can be slidably movable along the internal chamber (30) so as to assume a first position (P1) wherein the fluid communication between the outside and the second valve outlet (14) is enabled, and a second position (P2) wherein the fluid communication between the outside and the second valve outlet (14) is disabled.

[0074] Further, the second valve (11) can comprise: an opening and / or closing element (32) which is arranged at the first valve inlet (12) and which is connected to the button (28); elastic means (33) which are arranged interposed between the button (28) and the abutment wall (31) and which are configured in such a way that, during use: the sliding of the button (28) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), determines the compression of the elastic means (33), and the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13); the sliding of the button (28) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) determines the dilation of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13).

[0075] According to this embodiment, the elastic means (33) can comprise a first spring (37) which is borne by the button (28) (see figures 12 and 13).

[0076] When the button (28) assumes the first position (P1), the spring (37) is dilated with respect to the abutment wall (31); while when the button assumes the second position (P2), the spring (37) is compressed with respect to the abutment wall (31). Further, the second valve (11) can comprise a longitudinal connecting element (42) which is arranged so as to connect the button (28) and the opening and / or closing element (32) to one another.

[0077] In detail, the button (28) can be slidably movable between a first endrun stop (F1) and a second end run stop (F2) (see figures 12 and 13).

[0078] The button (28) can comprise a first wall (41) which forms a step.

[0079] The internal chamber (30) can comprise a second abutment wall (36) which forms the first endrun stop (F2).

[0080] The opening and / or closing element (32), when the elastic means (33) are in maximum dilation, forms the first endrun stop (F1) (see figure 12).

[0081] When the button (28) assumes the first position (P1), the opening and / or closing element (32) can be moved to close the first valve inlet (12) (see figure 12); while, when the button (28) assumes the second position (P2), the opening and / or closing element (32) can be moved to close the first valve inlet (12) (see figure 13).

[0082] A system (50) for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, can comprise a bottle (51).

[0083] In detail, during use, in a case where the tap (1) is the tap of the first embodiment which includes the first outlet (3) and the second outlet (8) as separate outlets, the bottle (51) is initially arranged at the first outlet (3) in order to receive the water and, thereafter, will be arranged at the second outlet (8), so that the injector (9) projects from the second outlet (8) to be immersed in the water dispensed internally of the bottle (51), in order to dispense the gas that will be dispersed in the water (see figures 1 and 3).

[0084] The second outlet (8) can comprise a first threading (52); the bottle (51) can comprise a second threading (53) which is arranged at the mouth of the bottle (51); the first threading (52) and the second threading (53) can be conformed so as to be coupled to one another.

[0085] In detail, by way of example, in figures 1 and 2, the first threading (52) is illustrated as an internal threading and the second threading (53) is illustrated as an external threading.

[0086] In detail, once more with reference to the first and second embodiments illustrated in figures 1 and 2, once the bottle (51) is arranged at the second outlet (8), with the first threading (52) and the second threading (53) coupled to one another, the button (28) can be moved from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), so that the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) enable the dispensing of the gas into the bottle (51) (see figures 1 and 2).

[0087] With reference to figures 1 and 2, embodiments are illustrated that include the injector (9) coupled to the bottle (51).

[0088] Therefore, the injector (9) can be borne by the bottle (51) and coupled to the second outlet (8) via the bottle (51) (see figures 1, 2 and 6).

[0089] In this case, the bottle (51) and the injector (9) can optionally be in a single body (see figure 6).

[0090] The injector (9) can be borne by the bottle (51) at the relative mouth.

[0091] According to the first and second embodiments illustrated in figures 1 and 2, the injector (9) can be coupled to the second outlet (8) in such a way that the first threading (52) and the second threading (53) are coupled to one another.

[0092] Alternatively to the foregoing, i.e. alternatively to the first and second embodiment, with particular reference to the third embodiment illustrated in figure 3, the bottle (51) can comprise a third threading (53a) which is arranged at the mouth of the bottle (51); the second outlet (8) can comprise a fourth threading (52a); and the system (50) can further comprise an adapter (54) which comprises a fifth threading (55) and a sixth threading (56) which are arranged opposite one another.

[0093] The sixth threading (56) and the third threading (53a) are conformed so as to be coupled to one another and the fifth threading (55) and the fourth threading (52a) are conformed so as to be coupled to one another. The injector (9) can be borne by the adapter (54) in such a way that, when the fourth threading (52a) and the fifth threading (55) are coupled to one another and the sixth threading (56) and the third threading (53a) are coupled to one another, the injector (9) is arranged interposed between the main body and the bottle (51) in such a way as to insert, at least partially in the bottle (51) (see figure 3).

[0094] In a case in which the fourth threading (52a) of the second outlet (8) and the third threading (53a) of the bottle (51) are not conformed to be coupled to one another, the adapter (54) ensures the coupling between the second outlet (8) and the mouth of the bottle (51).

[0095] The adapter (54) and the injector (9) can be made in a single body (see figure 5). Alternatively, the injector (9) and the adapter (54) can be separate bodies (not illustrated).

[0096] With specific reference to the above-described third embodiment, figure 3 illustrates the third threading (53a) and the fifth threading (55) as external threadings; while when the fourth threading (52a) and the sixth threading (56) are illustrated as internal threadings.

[0097] With particular reference to figure 6, the injector (9) and the second outlet (8) can be connected to one another so that the first gas outlet conduit (18) and the inside of the hollow body (25) are directly connected to one another by means of the adapter (54).

[0098] With reference to figures 1-4, the system (50) can comprise a first overpressure valve (57) which is arranged along the first gas inlet conduit (10) and which is interposed between the pressurised tank (7) and the second valve (11).

[0099] Further, the system (50) can comprise a second overpressure valve (58) which is arranged along the first gas outlet conduit (18) and which is interposed between the second valve (11) and the second outlet (8).

[0100] The second overpressure valve (58) advantageously ensures that, in a case of a release of gas such as to excessively increase the pressure in the first gas outlet conduit (18), the operation of the system (50) is not compromised.

[0101] With particular reference to figure 4, a fourth embodiment is disclosed wherein the second valve (11) can form a three-way solenoid and the button can form an electronic button (60).

[0102] In this regard, the system (50) can comprise a control unit (59) which is configured to activate and / or deactivate the three-way solenoid.

[0103] The communication between the control unit (59) and the three-way solenoid can take place via cables or using wireless technology.

[0104] Further, the control unit (59) is configured in such a way as to activate the three-way solenoid as a function of the number of times in which the electronic button (60) is moved.

[0105] For example, the control unit (59) can be configured in such a way as to activate the three-way solenoid for a specific time interval.

[0106] In other words, the number of time with which the electronic button (60) is moved will regulate the quantity of release of gas within a specific time interval.

[0107] Therefore, in a case in which the gas is CO 2 , with the above embodiment it will be possible to produce more highly-gassed water.

[0108] A method is disclosed for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, also part of the present invention, comprising steps of: predisposing a system (50) according any one of the embodiments described in the foregoing; coupling the injector (9) to the second outlet (8); positioning a container containing water at the injector (9) in such a way that the injector (9) is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into the container; placing in fluid communication the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) and, at the same time, preventing fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside so as to dispense gas to the second outlet (8) so as to be added to the water previously dispensed into the container.

[0109] Further, the method can comprise steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to the embodiment of the second valve (11) of figures 10 and 11; moving the button (28) slidably along the internal chamber (30) in order to pass from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) so as to dispense gas from the second outlet (8).

[0110] Further, the method can comprise steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to the embodiment of the second valve (11) of figures 12 and 13; moving the button (28) slidably along the internal chamber (30) in order to pass from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) so as to dispense gas from the second outlet (8).

[0111] Further, the method can comprise steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to the embodiment which includes the bottle (51); positioning the bottle (51), containing water previously dispensed, at the injector (9) in such a way that the injector (9) is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into the bottle (51); placing in fluid communication the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) and, at the same time, preventing fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside so as to dispense gas to the second outlet (8) so as then to be added to the water previously dispensed into the bottle (51).

Claims

1. A system (50) for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, comprising: a tap (1) comprising: a main body (2) which comprises a first outlet (3) for dispensing water towards outside; a first water inlet conduit (4) to be connected to a municipal water supply; a first valve (5) which is interposed between the main body (2) and the first water inlet conduit (4) and which is activatable so as to assume a first configuration in which it enables fluid communication between the first water inlet conduit (4) and the main body (2) and a second configuration in which it prevents the fluid communication between the first water inlet conduit (4) and the main body (2); a handle (6) which is connected to the first valve (5) in order to activate the first valve (5); a pressurised tank (7) containing a gas; wherein the main body (2) comprises a second outlet (8) for dispensing gas towards outside; an injector (9) which is couplable to the second outlet (8) and which extends, when coupled to the second outlet (8), starting from the second outlet (8), towards outside; a first gas inlet conduit (10) which is arranged so as to connect the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) to one another; a second valve (11) which: is interposed between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); comprises: a first valve inlet (12) which is connected to the first gas inlet conduit (10); a first valve outlet (13) which is connected to the main body (2); a second valve outlet (14) which is connected to the outside; is configured to assume: an operating configuration (CO): wherein the first valve inlet (12), the first valve outlet (13) and the second valve outlet (14) are connected to one another in order to enable the fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2) and in order to prevent fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside; a non-operating configuration (CN): wherein the first valve inlet (12), the first valve outlet (13) and the second valve outlet (14) are connected to one another in order to enable the fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside and to prevent fluid communication between the first gas inlet conduit (10) and the main body (2); wherein the system (50) is configured in such a way that, during use, once the injector (9) is coupled to the second outlet (8) in such a way that it is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into a container, when the second valve (11) assumes the operating configuration (CO), the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) are in fluid communication with one another so that the gas is dispensed from the second outlet (8) in order to be added to the water and, when the second valve (11) assumes the non-operating configuration (CN), the main body (2) and the outside are in fluid communication with one another.

2. The system (50) of the preceding claim, wherein the tap (1) comprises: a first gas outlet conduit (18) which extends along the main body (2), starting from the first valve outlet (13) up to the second outlet (8); a positioning element (19) for maintaining the first gas outlet conduit (18) in position and which is arranged in the main body (2), at the second outlet (8), so as to be crossed by the first gas outlet conduit (18) in such a way as to maintain the first gas outlet conduit (18) in a predetermined position with respect to the main body (2).

3. The system (50) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tap (1) comprises an aerator (23) which is removably coupled to the main body (2), at the second outlet (8).

4. The system (50) of any one of claims from 1 to 2, wherein the positioning element (19) comprises a portion (24) which forms an aerator.

5. The system (50) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the injector (9) comprises a hollow body (25) having a first through-hole (26) and a free end (27) for dispensing gas; the injector (9), during use, is coupled to the second outlet (8) in such a way that the free end (27) is immersed in the water into which the gas will be added.

6. The system (50) of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the second valve (11) comprises: a button (28) which comprises a second valve outlet (14) and which forms an internal conduit (29), which internal conduit (29) is in communication with the second valve outlet (14); an internal chamber (30) which comprises an abutment wall (31) and which is in communication with the internal conduit (29), with the first valve inlet (12), with the first valve outlet (13) and with the second valve outlet (14); the button (28) is slidably movable along the internal chamber (30) so as to assume a first position (P1) in which fluid communication is enabled between the outside and the internal conduit (29), through the second valve outlet (14), and a second position (P2) in which it prevents the fluid communication between the outside and the internal conduit (29), through the second valve outlet (14); an opening and / or closing element (32) which is interposed between the internal chamber (30) and the first valve inlet (12) and which is connected to the button (28); elastic means (33) which are arranged interposed between the opening and / or closing element (32) and the abutment wall (31) and which are configured in such a way that, during use: the sliding of the button (28) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), determines the compression of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13); the sliding of the button (28) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1), determines the dilation of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13).

7. The system (50) of any one of claims from 1 to 5, wherein: the second valve (11) comprises: a button (28); an internal chamber (30) which comprises an abutment wall (31) and which is in communication with the first valve inlet (12), with the first valve outlet (13) and with the second valve outlet (14); the button (28) is slidably movable along the internal chamber (30) so as to assume a first position (P1) wherein the fluid communication between the outside and the second valve outlet (14) is enabled and a second position (P2) wherein the fluid communication between the outside and the second valve outlet (14) is disabled; an opening and / or closing element (32) which is arranged at the first valve inlet (12) and which is connected to the button (28); elastic means (33) which are arranged interposed between the button (28) and the abutment wall (31) and which are configured in such a way that, during use: the sliding of the button (28) from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2), determines the compression of the elastic means (33), and the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13); the sliding of the button (28) from the second position (P2) to the first position (P1) determines the dilation of the elastic means (33), by effect of the movement of the opening and / or closing element (32) in order to prevent the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13).

8. The system (50) of any one of the preceding claims, comprising a bottle (51).

9. The system (50) of the preceding claim, wherein: the second outlet (8) comprises a first threading (52); the bottle (51) comprises a second threading (53) which is arranged at the mouth of the bottle (51); the first threading (52) and the second threading (53) are conformed so as to be coupled to one another.

10. The system (50) of claim 8, wherein: the bottle (51) comprises a third threading (53a) which is arranged at the mouth of the bottle (51); the second outlet (8) comprises a fourth threading (52a); it comprises an adapter (54) which comprises a fifth threading (55) and a sixth threading (56) which are arranged opposite one another; the sixth threading (56) and the third threading (53a) are conformed so as to be coupled to one another and the fifth threading (55) and the fourth threading (52a) are conformed so as to be coupled to one another; the injector (9) is borne by the adapter (54) in such a way that, when the fourth threading (52a) and the fifth threading (55) are coupled to one another and the sixth threading (56) and the third threading (53a) are coupled to one another, the injector (9) is arranged interposed between the main body and the bottle (51) in such a way as to insert, at least partially in the bottle (51).

11. A method for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, comprising steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to any one of the preceding claims; coupling the injector (9) to the second outlet (8); positioning a container containing water at the injector (9) in such a way that the injector (9) is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into the container; placing in fluid communication the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) and, at the same time, preventing fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside so as to dispense gas to the second outlet (8) so as to be added to the water previously dispensed into the container.

12. The method for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto of the preceding claim, comprising steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to claim 6; moving the button (28) slidably along the internal chamber (30) in order to pass from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) so as to dispense gas from the second outlet (8).

13. The method for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, of claim 11, comprising steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to claim 7; moving the button (28) slidably along the internal chamber (30) in order to pass from the first position (P1) to the second position (P2) in order to enable the fluid communication between the first valve inlet (12) and the first valve outlet (13) so as to dispense gas from the second outlet (8).

14. A method for dispensing water and adding a gas thereto, comprising steps of: predisposing a system (50) according to claim 8; positioning the bottle (51), containing water previously dispensed, at the injector (9) in such a way that the injector (9) is arranged partially immersed in the water previously dispensed into the bottle (51); placing in fluid communication the pressurised tank (7) and the main body (2) and, at the same time, preventing fluid communication between the main body (2) and the outside so as to dispense gas to the second outlet (8) so as then to be added to the water previously dispensed into the bottle (51).

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