Device for a treatment of a fluid flow

Abstract

A device (1) for a treatment of a fluid flow comprising a valvular body (2), a container (3) and a separation interface (4). The valvular body defines a cavity provided with at least one inlet (21), at least one outlet (22) and an access opening (23). The container is engageable, in a removable manner, to the valvular body at the opening and defines a compartment (30) adapted to receive a substance for a treatment of the fluid. The separation interface is engageable, in a removable manner, to the valvular body at the opening and results selectively movable between a first position (P1), wherein occludes the opening and defines a channel (24) separated from the compartment (30), and a second position (P2), wherein the opening is free for allowing an access to the cavity. The separation interface has also at least one through hole (41, 42) configured to allow a fluid communication between the channel and the compartment.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] "DEVICE FOR A TREATMENT OF A FLUID FLOW”

[0003] FIELD OF THE FINDING

[0004] The present invention has as its object a device for a treatment of a fluid flow. The present invention can find application in the context of domestic and / or industrial hydraulic plants, for example heating plants and hydraulic-sanitary plants. In particular, the device according to the present invention can be used, in a nonlimiting way, for the chemical conditioning of a fluid flow, for example a sanitary water flow, for example by means of the addition of a predetermined percentage of sodium and / or potassium polyphosphates.

[0005] In addition, the present invention has as its object a hydraulic system, in particular a hydraulic-sanitary system, using said device for a treatment of a fluid flow.

[0006] The present invention is also aimed at a method of assembling of said device for a treatment of a fluid flow. Also, the present invention refers to a maintenance procedure of said device for a treatment of a fluid flow.

[0007] STATE OF THE ART

[0008] As it is known, hydraulic-sanitary or heating plants are provided with operating devices - such as for example boilers, pumps, heat exchangers - configured to treat the fluid flow circulating in the system, generally represented by sanitary water.

[0009] Typically, upstream and / or downstream of these operating devices, valves are provided to intercept the circulation of the fluid, and in some cases also to carry out a treatment on the same fluid, for example a cleaning, filtering or chemical conditioning treatment.

[0010] A problem of hydraulic-sanitary or heating plants is related to the quality of sanitary water, which, depending on geographical and / or geological factors, has variable amounts of calcium and magnesium salts, which determine its hardness. During the heating of the sanitary water, a chemical process is triggered which, from the calcium salts dispersed in the flow, generates calcium carbonate (limestone) and carbon dioxide. The limestone produced tends to precipitate and scale parts of the plant, for example the heat exchanger of boilers, while the carbon dioxide can trigger corrosive effects on the walls of the plant itself.

[0011] In the long run, the limestone that deposits on the walls of the pipelines of the plant can, partially or completely, obstruct the passage ways for the fluid flow with consequent disadvantages in terms of efficiency of the entire plant as well as expose other components present in the plant itself to the risk of damaging. Also, the aforementioned limestone deposits have a negative impact on energy consumption and pollution produced by the plant.

[0012] In order to overcome this drawback, filtering devices capable of retaining at least a part of the solid particles present in the fluid and dispensers of polyphosphates capable of chemically conditioning the fluid to counteract the formation of limestone and carbon dioxide have been developed.

[0013] The dispensers of polyphosphates base their functioning on the release into the sanitary water of sodium and potassium polyphosphates. These sodium and potassium polyphosphates are chemically reactive with calcium ions present in the water and prevent, at least in part, the formation of limestone and carbon dioxide from calcium salts. Also, polyphosphates act on the pipelines, promoting the creation of a protective film on the internal walls that prevents the adhesion of limestone. The main task of dispensers of polyphosphates, when installed in a hydraulic plant, is therefore to counteract and prevent the limestone and carbon dioxide formation process, helping to keep the components of the plants (e.g., ducts, heat exchangers and boilers) and any accessories (e.g., household appliances such as washing machines and dishwashers) connected to said hydraulic plant clean in order to avoid their damaging.

[0014] A first known typology of dispensers of polyphosphates comprises a valvular body defined essentially by a tubular duct extending between an inlet and an outlet. This dispenser comprises also a container engaged, in a preferably removable manner, to the valvular body. This container has only one access and defines a compartment for the containment of a dusty composition adapted to release, when traversed by a fluid, a solution of polyphosphates. This first typology of dispenser, precisely because of the nature of the composition present in the container, is recognized in the technical sector under the name ‘powder dispenser'. The container is in communication with the tubular duct of the valvular body by means of two calibrated holes, interposed between the inlet and the outlet of the valvular body and directly facing the single access of the container. The calibrated holes are configured to allow a part of the water flow, in transit through the tubular duct, to reach the container, traverse it and then re-enter the tubular duct. The part of the water flow in transit in the container generates a solution of polyphosphates adapted to mix with the main water flow traversing the tubular duct. In this way, in the sanitary water exiting from the valvular body, when heated, limestone formation phenomena do not occur.

[0015] Although powder dispensers are able to chemically condition the fluid of a hydraulic plant, the Applicant has found how such dispensers are prone to clogging caused by the powder composition, which tends to thicken into clots or dry out so as to lose at least part of the properties that allow the powder composition to properly release the polyphosphates solution in water.

[0016] A second known typology of dispenser has, in its minimal elements, a conformation similar to the first typology but differs in the conformation of the composition of polyphosphates used. In fact, like the dispensers of the preceding typology, also the dispensers of the second typology comprise a valvular body, essentially defined by a tubular duct extending between an inlet and an outlet, and a container, engaged, preferably in a removable manner, to the valvular body and in fluid communication with the tubular duct through two calibrated holes. Unlike the preceding typology, in said second typology of dispensers, the composition of polyphosphates present inside the container is in the form of a plurality of spheres capable of releasing, when in contact with a fluid, a quantity of polyphosphates. This second typology of dispenser, precisely because of the conformation of the composition present in the container, is recognized in the technical sector under the name of ‘sphere dispenser'. The spheres, with respect to the powder composition of the first typology of dispensers, have the advantage of releasing in a more precise and controlled way the quantity of polyphosphates in order to allow an optimal chemical conditioning of the water. Furthermore, precisely thanks to the conformation of the composition present in the container, the sphere dispenser, with respect to the powder dispenser, is not subject to obstructions. An example of said second typology of dispensers is shown in the Italian patent application No. 102021000009689 in the name of the same Applicant.

[0017] As shown in the document 102021000009689, the dispenser of polyphosphates comprises a filter, arranged inside the valvular body and configured to intercept the fluid flow traversing the tubular duct. The main task of the filter is to block any solid particles and / or impurities so as to allow the outflow of only the liquid component of the sanitary water transiting through the valvular body. The solid particles and / or impurities filtered by the fluid remain trapped in the structure of the filter, which, in the long term, can present an accumulation of material such as to, partially or totally, obstruct the tubular duct of the valvular body and therefore compromise the correct functioning of the dispenser device.

[0018] In this sense, in addition to the routine replacement and / or addition operations of the substance in the container (be it in powder or spheres), dispenser of polyphosphates of known type provided with a filter require the carrying out of maintenance operations of the filter so that it continues to exert an effective cleaning action and the risk of partial or total clogging of the tubular duct is avoided.

[0019] The Applicant has observed that in known solutions filters are typically housed in spaces rather narrow and difficult to identify inside the valvular body. In the device described in 102021000009689, for example, the filter is inserted at an inlet / outlet interface destined to be plugged so as to intercept the entire flow that circulates between the remaining inlet / outlet interfaces.

[0020] In light of the above, the Applicant has noted that the maintenance operations of the filter are particularly inconvenient or are even omitted because, due to the difficulty of identification of the filter, its presence is not detected within the valvular body. Consequently, the performances of the dispenser device are penalized and the entire hydraulic-sanitary system has to operate under sub-optimal conditions.

[0021] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0022] A general object of the present invention is therefore to solve at least one of the drawbacks and / or limitations of the preceding solutions.

[0023] An object of the invention is to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow that allows to carry out the maintenance operations in a particularly convenient way. In particular, the device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to the present invention allows to considerably simplify the maintenance operations of the filtering elements destined to the filtering of the fluid transiting inside the device itself.

[0024] Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow wherein the valvular body and the through holes for the fluid flow can be maintained in optimal conditions for the correct functioning of the device itself.

[0025] It is also object of the present invention to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow in which it is particularly immediate to detect the presence of filtering elements.

[0026] Still another object of the present invention is to minimize the possibility that maintenance operations of the device for a treatment of a fluid flow are only partially carried out, in particular that the maintenance of the filtering elements is disregarded. Another object of the present invention is to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow that is easily maintained in the ideal conditions for its correct functioning and that ensures a real efficiency almost identical to its nominal efficiency in terms of the treatment of the fluid transiting within it.

[0027] A further object of the present invention is to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow wherein the interior space is easily accessible. Specifically, object of the present invention is to ensure a convenient access to the interior of the device and to all elements housed therein.

[0028] It is still object of the present invention to provide a device for a treatment of a fluid flow with a particularly simple and rational structure.

[0029] Another object of the present invention is to describe a device for a treatment of a fluid flow with a competitive production cost.

[0030] Another object of the present invention is to provide a hydraulic system, in particular a hydraulic-sanitary system, comprising said device for a treatment and then with high efficiency in terms of treatment of the circulating fluid flow.

[0031] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method of assembling of said device for a treatment of a fluid flow. Specifically, task of the present invention is to show a method of assembling of said device that it is easy to carry out.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is to make available a method of assembling of said device for a treatment of a fluid flow the carrying out thereof is particularly rapid.

[0033] Another object of the present invention is to provide a maintenance procedure of said device for a treatment of a fluid flow that is particularly effective and simple to carry out. In particular, an object of the present invention is to make available a maintenance procedure of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow in which the possibility of omitting one or more operations that could compromise the functioning of the device itself and / or of the hydraulic plant wherein it is employed is minimized.

[0034] These purposes, and any others, which will become clearer in the following description, are substantially reached by a device for a treatment of a fluid flow, by a hydraulic system comprising said device for a treatment of a fluid flow, by a method of assembling of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow and by a maintenance procedure of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to one or more of the attached claims, each of which taken alone (without the relative dependencies) or in any combination with the other claims, as well as according to the following aspects and / or embodiments, variously combined, also with said claims.

[0035] SUMMARY

[0036] According to a first aspect, the present invention refers to a device for a treatment of a fluid flow. In particular, the present invention refers to a device for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow. Therefore, the device according to the present invention finds particular application in the chemical conditioning of a fluid flow, for example a sanitary water flow.

[0037] In an aspect, said device comprises a valvular body. Said valvular body is a hollow body defining within itself a cavity. In an aspect, said valvular body comprises at least one inlet facing said cavity for receiving said fluid flow entering said device. Said at least one inlet is configured to allow an inflow of said fluid flow inside said cavity. In particular, said at least one inlet is connectable to an inlet duct for supplying said fluid flow in said cavity.

[0038] In an aspect, said valvular body comprises at least one outlet facing said cavity for allowing an outflow of said fluid flow from said device. Said at least one outlet is configured to allow an outflow of said fluid flow from said cavity. In particular, said at least one outlet is connectable to an outlet duct for an outflow of said fluid flow from said cavity.

[0039] In an aspect, said at least one inlet can be configured to allow an outflow of said fluid flow and said at least one outlet can be configured to receive said fluid flow entering said device. According to this aspect, said fluid flow enters said device from said outlet and exits from said device from said inlet. In other words, said device is completely reversible as far as concerns the inlet point of said fluid flow and the outlet point of said fluid flow.

[0040] In an aspect, said valvular body comprises an access opening to said cavity. Said opening is configured to allow an access to said cavity. In particular, said opening is configured to allow the carrying out of maintenance operations in said cavity.

[0041] In an aspect, said device comprises at least one container. Said container is configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body at said opening.

[0042] In an aspect, said container defines at least one compartment. Said compartment results configured to receive a substance for a treatment of said fluid flow, preferably a substance for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow. In an aspect, said container is positioned inferiorly to said valvular body along a vertical axis.

[0043] In the present document, the terms "lower”, "inferiorly”, "under”, "below” or equivalent expressions and, analogously, the terms "upper”, "upperly”, "on”, "above” or equivalent expressions are to be intended as referring to said vertical axis in a direction going from said container to said valvular body.

[0044] Also, in the present document, the terms "interior”, "inwards”, "inner” or equivalent expressions and, analogously, the terms "outer”, "towards the outside”, "exterior” or equivalent expressions are to be intended as referring to a direction radial with respect to said vertical axis and to a direction moving away from said vertical axis.

[0045] In an aspect, said device comprises a separation interface. Said separation interface is configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body at said opening.

[0046] In an aspect, when associated to said valvular body, said separation interface defines, in said cavity, a channel. Said channel extends between said at least one inlet and said at least one outlet.

[0047] In an aspect, said separation interface has at least one through hole.

[0048] In an aspect, said separation interface is selectively movable between: a first position, wherein said separation interface is associated to said valvular body and occludes said opening, with the exception of said at least one through hole, said separation interface separating from each other said channel and said compartment; a second position, wherein said separation interface is at least partially disassociated from said valvular body and said opening is at least partially free for allowing an access to said cavity. In an aspect, said at least one through hole is configured to allow a fluid communication between said channel and said compartment. In other words, said at least one through hole is configured to allow a passage of at least one part of said fluid flow from said channel to said compartment and vice versa.

[0049] In an aspect, said at least one through hole is configured to separate said fluid flow in a first fluid flow and a second fluid flow. According to this aspect, said first fluid flow circulates uniquely in said channel between said at least one inlet and said at least one outlet, while said second fluid flow traverses said at least one through hole for circulating in said compartment and undergoing a treatment by means of said substance.

[0050] In an aspect, in said second position the separation interface is completely disassociated from said valvular body and said opening is completely free for allowing an access to said cavity.

[0051] In an aspect, said fluid flow entering from said at least one inlet coincides with the union of said first fluid flow and said second fluid flow.

[0052] In an aspect, said second fluid flow is configured to temporarily circulate in said at least one compartment so as to undergo a treatment by means of said substance. In other words, said second fluid flow temporarily leaves said channel for entering, through said at least one hole, said compartment so as to undergo a treatment by means of said substance, and then to re-enter said channel, even through said at least one hole, and rejoin said first fluid flow.

[0053] In an aspect, said device comprises a filtering element. Said filtering element is housed, in a removable manner, inside said cavity. In other words, said filtering element is in use steadily housed in said cavity, but can be disassociated from said valvular body.

[0054] In an aspect, said filtering element is interposed between said at least one inlet and said at least one outlet for filtering said fluid flow.

[0055] In an aspect, said filtering element is configured to filter at least said first fluid flow. According to the embodiment, said filtering element is configured to uniquely filter said first fluid flow or is configured to filter both said first fluid flow and said second fluid flow, i.e. the entire fluid flow entering said valvular body through said at least one inlet.

[0056] In an aspect, said filtering element divides said channel into a first chamber, on which is facing at least one inlet, and a second chamber, on which is facing said at least one outlet. In particular, the union of said first chamber and said second chamber corresponds to said channel. Said fluid flow cannot pass directly from said first chamber to said second chamber or vice versa without traversing said filtering element.

[0057] In an aspect, said filtering element comprises a cylindrical filter.

[0058] In an aspect, said filtering element comprises a planar septum.

[0059] In an aspect, said valvular body comprises a lower wall, substantially parallel to said vertical axis and defining said opening, and a junction wall, developing seamlessly with said lower wall and substantially perpendicular to said vertical axis.

[0060] In an aspect, said container comprises a bottom wall and at least one lateral wall that develop seamlessly to each other for defining said compartment. In an aspect, said separation interface comprises a separating surface and an edge surface, substantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to said vertical axis.

[0061] In an aspect, said separation interface comprises a connection wall, substantially parallel to said vertical axis and connecting said separating surface and said edge surface. According to this aspect, said separating surface and said edge surface lie on two distinct planes parallel to each other.

[0062] In an aspect, when said separation interface is in said first position and said container is applied to the valvular body, said separating surface is interposed between said channel and said compartment.

[0063] In an aspect, when said separation interface is in said first position and said container is applied to the valvular body, said edge surface contacts said junction wall and said lateral wall. Specifically, the edge surface contacts inferiorly a top of said lateral wall of the container. In other words, the edge surface is interposed between, and in contact with, said junction wall and said lateral wall.

[0064] In an aspect, said separating surface has an upper side and a lower side.

[0065] In an aspect, said upper side results facing said cavity. In particular, when said separation interface is in said first position, said upper side concurs to define said channel.

[0066] In an aspect, said lower side results facing said container. In particular, when said separation interface is in said first portion, said lower side is configured to plug said compartment, with the exception of said at least one through hole.

[0067] In an aspect, said upper side comprises at least one seat configured to house, in a removable manner, said at least one filtering element. Specifically, said at least one seat on the upper side is configured to steadily associate, in a removable manner, said at least one filtering element to said separation interface.

[0068] In an aspect alternative to the preceding one, said filtering element is integral with said separation interface. According to this aspect, said filtering element cannot be removed from said separation interface.

[0069] In an aspect, said lower side comprises a gripping element. Said gripping element is configured to allow, and facilitate, a movement of said separation interface. In particular, said gripping element is configured to allow a movement of said separation interface between said first position and said second position.

[0070] In an aspect, said container comprises a striking lip. Said striking lip develops from said lateral wall away from said vertical axis. Specifically, said striking lip emerges from the outer side of said lateral wall.

[0071] In an aspect, said striking lip is configured to contact said lower wall when said container is applied to said valvular body. In other words, when said separation interface is in said first position and said container is applied to the valvular body, the lower wall externally wraps said separation interface and the upper portion of said lateral wall of the container.

[0072] In an aspect, said striking lip is configured to define a seat for a gasket. In particular, said gasket is configured to avoid a leakage of fluid towards the outside between said valvular body and said container.

[0073] In an aspect, said device comprises a stopping element selectively movable between a blocking configuration and a releasing configuration. According to this aspect, said blocking condition is configured to maintain a stable association between said valvular body and said container and said releasing configuration is configured to allow a detachment between said valvular body and said container. In an aspect, in said blocking configuration, said stopping element strikes against said container to prevent a relative movement between said container and said valvular body. In particular, in the blocking configuration, said blocking element is configured to prevent a slipping downwards of said container along said vertical axis. In an aspect, in said blocking configuration, said stopping element inferiorly contacts said striking lip.

[0074] In an aspect, said stopping element comprises a thread ring nut.

[0075] In an aspect, said stopping element is selectively movable between said blocking configuration and said releasing configuration by screwing.

[0076] In an aspect, said stopping element comprises a threading on an inner surface and said lower wall comprises a counter-threading on an outer surface. According to said aspect, said threading is configured to engage with said counter-threading.

[0077] In an aspect, said at least one inlet develops in said valvular body along a first axis.

[0078] In an aspect, said at least one outlet develops in said valvular body along a second axis.

[0079] In an aspect, said device comprises a unique inlet and a unique outlet.

[0080] In an aspect, said first axis and said second axis are parallel to each other. Preferably, said first axis and said second axis are coincident, i.e. lie on the same direction.

[0081] In an aspect, said first axis and said second axis form between them an angle different from 180°. Preferably, said first axis and said second axis form between them an angle substantially equal to 90°.

[0082] In an aspect, said first axis and said second axis are skewed to each other.

[0083] In an aspect, said at least one through hole comprises at least two holes, namely a first hole and a second hole. In an aspect, said first hole and said second hole are both positioned at said first chamber.

[0084] In an aspect alternative to the preceding one, said first hole is positioned at said first chamber and said second hole is positioned at said second chamber.

[0085] In an aspect alternative to the two preceding aspects, said first hole and said second hole are both positioned at said second chamber.

[0086] In an aspect, said valvular body and said separation interface are engageable with each other by means of a form coupling.

[0087] In an aspect, said separation interface comprises at least one first coupling element and said valvular body comprises at least one second coupling element.

[0088] In an aspect, said at least one first coupling element and said at least one second coupling element are configured to ensure a determined relative positioning between said valvular body and said separation interface. In an aspect, said at least one first coupling element comprises a protuberance emerging from said edge surface and said at least one second coupling element comprises a seat, obtained in said junction wall and countershaped to said protuberance.

[0089] In an aspect, said valvular body comprises an exhaust valve selectively openable for putting in fluid communication said channel and an external environment. According to said aspect, said exhaust valve is configured to allow an outflow of fluid from said channel. In an aspect, said exhaust valve comprises an orifice, obtained in said valvular body, and a plugging element, configured to be selectively associated to said valvular body for occluding said orifice.

[0090] In an aspect, said substance contained in said compartment is configured to release a predetermined percentage of a composition within the second fluid flow circulating within said compartment.

[0091] In an aspect, said substance comprises at least sodium polyphosphates and / or potassium polyphosphates.

[0092] In an aspect, said device for a treatment of a fluid flow is a dispenser of polyphosphates.

[0093] In an aspect, said substance comprises a solid compound soluble in said second fluid flow.

[0094] In an aspect, said substance is in the form of spheres.

[0095] In an aspect alternative to the preceding one, said substance is in the form of powder or granulate.

[0096] In an aspect alternative to the two preceding aspects, said substance is in the form of crystals.

[0097] In an aspect, said fluid flow is a water flow, preferably a sanitary water flow.

[0098] In another aspect, said invention refers to a hydraulic system for a treatment of a fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow.

[0099] In an aspect, said system comprises:

[0100] - a device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to one or more of the preceding aspects;

[0101] - at least one inlet duct associated to said at least one inlet for sending said fluid flow to said device;

[0102] - at least one outlet duct associated to said at least one outlet for collecting said fluid flow from said device;

[0103] - a determined amount of a substance for a treatment of said fluid flow housed in said compartment.

[0104] In yet another aspect, the present invention concerns a method of assembling of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow.

[0105] In an aspect, said method of assembling comprises the steps of:

[0106] - arranging the device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to one or more of the preceding aspects;

[0107] - positioning said separation interface in said first position at said opening of said valvular body;

[0108] - associating said container to said valvular body maintaining said separation interface interposed between said cavity and said compartment.

[0109] In an aspect, said method of assembling comprises a step of housing a filtering element at said cavity between said at least one inlet and said at least one outlet.

[0110] In an aspect, said step of associating said container to said valvular body provides for associating a blocking element adapted to maintain a stable association between said valvular body and said container.

[0111] According to another aspect, the present invention refers to a maintenance procedure of a device according to one or more of the preceding aspects.

[0112] In an aspect, said maintenance procedure comprises the steps of:

[0113] - disassociating said container from said valvular body;

[0114] - positioning said separation interface in said second position so as to free said opening and allow an access to said cavity;

[0115] - carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation; - positioning said separation interface in said first position so as to occlude, with the exception of said at least one through hole, said opening;

[0116] - associating said container to said valvular body.

[0117] In an aspect, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out a cleaning of said cavity.

[0118] In an aspect, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out at least one cleaning operation of said separation interface. By way of example, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation can provide for a maintenance operation at said at least one hole in order to avoid its clogging due to the accumulation of dirt and / or limestone residues.

[0119] In an aspect, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out at least one cleaning or a replacement of at least one filtering element housed, preferably in a removable manner, in said cavity.

[0120] In an aspect, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out a recharge of said at least one substance inside said compartment.

[0121] Further features and advantages will result more from the detailed description of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow, of a hydraulic system comprising said device for a treatment of a fluid flow, of a method of production of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow and of a maintenance procedure of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow, according to the present invention.

[0122] SHORT DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0123] Some embodiments and some aspects of the invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided only for an illustrative and therefore non-limiting purpose wherein:

[0124] - figure 1 is a perspective view of a device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to the present invention, according to the first exemplary embodiment;

[0125] - figure 2 is an exploded view of the device of figure 1 ;

[0126] - figure 3 represents a plan front view of the device of figure 1 ;

[0127] - figure 4 represents a plan lateral view of the device of figure 1 ;

[0128] - figure 5 represents a sectional view according to the V-V plan of the device of figure 3;

[0129] - figure 6 represents a sectional view according to the VI-VI plan of the device of figure 4;

[0130] - figure 7 is a perspective view of the device for a treatment of a fluid flow according to the present invention, according to a second exemplary embodiment;

[0131] - figure 8 is an exploded view of the device of figure 7;

[0132] - figure 9 represents a plan front view of the device of figure 7;

[0133] - figure 10 represents a plan lateral view of the device of figure 7;

[0134] - figure 11 represents a sectional view according to the XI-XI plan of the device of figure 9;

[0135] - figure 12 represents a sectional view according to the XI l-XI I plan of the device of figure 10. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0136] It should be noted that in the present detailed description corresponding parts shown in the various figures are indicated with the same numerical references. Figures may show the object of the invention by means of representations that are not to scale; therefore, parts and components shown in figures related to the object of the invention could relate exclusively to schematic representations.

[0137] With reference to the attached figures with the reference 1 has been overall indicated a device for a treatment of a fluid flow. In particular, the device 1 according to the present description is a device for a chemical treatment of a fluid flow. By way of example and absolutely non-limiting thereto, said fluid flow can coincide with a water flow, preferably a sanitary water flow. In particular, said device 1 can constitute a dispenser of polyphosphates. According to what is shown in the attached figures, the device 1 comprises a valvular body 2. As shown in figures 6 and 12, the valvular body 2 defines within itself a cavity 20. In other words, the valvular body 2 is a hollow body presenting a globally concave conformation to define said cavity 20.

[0138] Said valvular body 2 comprises at least one inlet 21 facing said cavity 20 for receiving said fluid flow entering said device 1 . In particular, said at least one inlet 21 is configured to allow an inflow of said fluid flow inside said cavity 20. In a preferred embodiment, said at least one inlet 21 is connectable to an inlet duct, of conventional type and for this reason not shown in the attached figures, for supplying said fluid flow in said cavity 20.

[0139] In the embodiments shown in the attached figures, the valvular body 2 comprises a unique inlet 21. In other words, the valvular body 2 is provided with a unique point of inlet for the fluid flow in said device 1. These embodiments are to be intended in an exemplificative and absolutely non-limiting way since the embodiments provided with two or more inlets 21 are to be considered in any case comprised in the scope of the present description and invention.

[0140] Said valvular body 2 comprises at least one outlet 22 facing said cavity 20 for allowing an outflow of said fluid flow from said device 1. In particular, said at least one outlet 22 is configured to allow an outflow of said fluid flow from said cavity 20. In a preferred embodiment, said at least one outlet 22 is connectable to an outlet duct, of conventional type and for this reason not shown in the attached figures, for allowing the outflow of said fluid flow from said cavity 20.

[0141] In the embodiments shown in the attached figures, the valvular body 2 comprises a unique outlet 22. In other words, the valvular body 2 is provided with a unique point for the outflow of said fluid flow from the device 1. These embodiments are to be intended by way of example and in no way as limiting since embodiments provided with two or more outlets 22 are in any case to be considered within the scope of the present description and invention.

[0142] In the context of devices 1 provided with multiple inlets 21 and / or multiple outlets 22, one or more of the inlets and / or outlets can be selectively occluded by means of a plugging element so as to maintain active a unique inlet and a unique outlet. Alternatively, all of the inlets and all of the outlets can be maintained open so that the device 1 can also operate as a collector device.

[0143] According to the above, even if the shown embodiments comprise a unique inlet 21 and a unique outlet 22, embodiments comprising two or more inlets and / or two or more outlets are anyway to be intended as included in the scope of the present description and invention. In particular, the valvular body 2 shown in the attached figures represents, in use, a two-way valve, wherein the fluid flow can enter the device from a unique point (inlet 21) and can exit from a unique point (outlet 22). However, in other not shown embodiments, the valvular body 2 can coincide, in use, with a three-way valve or a four or more-way valve. Therefore, although the present description mainly refers to an embodiment provided with a unique inlet 21 and a unique outlet 22, the following can be extended, with the due differences, to embodiments comprising two or more inlets and / or two or more outlets, typically facing said cavity 20.

[0144] In the shown embodiments, the fluid flow enters from the inlet 21 and exits from the outlet 22, transiting in the device 1 from the inlet 21 to the outlet 22.

[0145] In an alternative configuration of the device 1, the inlet 21 can be configured to allow the outflow of the fluid flow from the device itself. Analogously, in the above-mentioned alternative configuration, the outlet 22 can be configured to receive the fluid flow in inlet to the device 1. In other words, the device 1 can be also used in a configuration reversed with respect to the shown one, i.e. with the fluid flow entering the outlet 22 and exiting from the inlet 21. In this circumstance, the fluid flow transits in the device 1 from the outlet 22 to the inlet 21 undergoing a treatment equal to the one of the shown configurations. In particular, the device 1 results to be reversible and fully operative in both configurations.

[0146] According to what is shown in the attached figures, the valvular body 2 comprises an access opening 23 to said cavity 20. Said opening 23 is configured to allow an access to said cavity 20. In particular, said opening 23 is configured to allow the carrying out of maintenance operations in said cavity 20. As shown, said opening 23 has an extension greater with respect to said inlet 21 and to said outlet 22 in order to allow a greater convenience in carrying out operations within the cavity 20. Preferably, said opening 23 has a substantially circular conformation.

[0147] In addition, the device 1 comprises at least one container 3. Said container 3 is configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body 2 at said opening 23. As shown by the comparison for example between figure 1 and 2, the container 3 is associable, in a removable manner, to the valvular body 3 at said opening 23. Specifically, said container 3 is positioned inferiorly to said valvular body 2 along a vertical axis Z. In the present description, the terms "inferior”, "inferiorly”, "under”, "below” or equivalent expressions and, analogously, the terms "upper”, “upperly” , "on”, "above” or equivalent expressions are to be intended as referring to said vertical axis Z in a direction going from said container 3 to said valvular body 2.

[0148] In a similar way, in the present description, the terms "inner”, "inwards”, "interior” or equivalent expressions and, analogously, the terms "outer”, "towards the outside”, "exterior” or equivalent expressions are to be intended as referring to a direction radial with respect to said vertical axis Z and to a direction moving away from said vertical axis Z.

[0149] As shown in figures 6 and 12, said container 3 defines at least one compartment 30. Said compartment 30 results configured to receive a substance for a treatment of said fluid flow, preferably a substance for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow. In other words, the container 3 represents an associable and disassociable container from said valvular body 2 and wherein can be housed said substance for the treatment, preferably chemical, of said fluid flow.

[0150] In addition, said device 1 comprises a separation interface 4. Said separation interface 4 is configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body 2 at said opening 23. As shown for example in the sections of figures 6 and 12, when associated to said valvular body 2, said separation interface 4 defines, in said cavity 20, a channel 24. This channel 24 extends between said at least one inlet 21 and said at least one outlet 22 and is configured to allow the transit of said fluid flow inside the valvular body 2.

[0151] According to what is shown in figures 6 and 12, in use, i.e. when said separation interface 4 and said container 3 are both associated to said valvular body 2 at the opening 23, said separation interface 3 separates from each other said channel 24 and said compartment 30.

[0152] Preferably, said separation interface 4 has a conformation substantially coinciding with the one of the opening 23. In the shown embodiments the opening 23 has a substantially circular conformation and, consequently, the separation interface 4 also has a substantially circular conformation.

[0153] It should be noted that preferably (as in the embodiments shown in figures) the separation interface 4 constitutes an element of the device 1 different from the valvular body 2 and from the container 3.

[0154] In order to allow an exchange of fluid between said channel 24 and said compartment 30, said separation interface 4 has at least one through hole 41 , 42. Specifically, said at least one through hole 41 , 42 is configured to allow a fluid communication between said channel 24 and said compartment 30. In other words, said at least one through hole 41 , 42 is configured to allow the passage of at least one part of said fluid flow from said channel 24 to said compartment 30 and vice versa.

[0155] In particular, said at least one through hole 41 , 42 is configured to separate said fluid flow in a first fluid flow and a second fluid flow. As clearly shown in figures 6 and 12, said first fluid flow circulates uniquely in said channel 24 between said at least one inlet 21 and said at least one outlet 22, while said second fluid flow traverses said at least one through hole 41 , 42 for circulating in said compartment 30 and undergoing a treatment by means of said substance. Specifically, the fluid flow entering the device 1 by means of said inlet 21 is separated by the at least one hole 41 , 42: a part, preferably a majority of said fluid flow, circulates uniquely in the channel 24 of the valvular body 2 and reaches directly said outlet 22 for exiting from the device 1 ; the remaining part, preferably a minority of said fluid flow, transits through said at least one hole 41 , 42 and reaches the compartment 30, where it undergoes a treatment by means of said substance, before traversing again said at least one hole 41 , 42 and reaching again the channel 24, where it joins again with the first fluid flow in order to exit from the device 1 through said outlet 22.

[0156] In other words, the second fluid flow temporarily circulates in said at least one compartment 30 for undergoing a treatment by means of said substance. In fact, the fluid flow entering from said at least one inlet 21 is separated in two separate flows. On the one hand, the first fluid flow remains within the channel 24 directly transiting from said at least one inlet 21 to said at least one outlet 22. On the other hand, the second flow traverses said at least one through hole 41 , 42 and temporarily circulates inside the compartment 30 for undergoing said treatment by the substance therein present. Subsequently, the second fluid flow traverses again said at least one through hole 41 , 42 for rejoining said first fluid flow and exiting through said at least one outlet 22.

[0157] As shown in attached figures, said separation interface 4 is selectively movable between: a first position P1 (figures 1 , 3-7 and 9-12), wherein said separation interface 4 is associated to said valvular body 2 and occludes said opening 23, with the exception of said at least one through hole 41 ,42; a second position P2 (figures 2 and 8), wherein said separation interface 4 is (at least partially) disassociated from said valvular body 2 and said opening 23 is (at least partially) free for allowing an access to said cavity 20.

[0158] In particular, when said container 3 is applied to the valvular body 2 and the separation interface 4 is in the first portion P1 , said separation interface 4 separates from each other the channel 24 and the compartment 30. On the contrary, when said container 3 is not applied to the valvular body 2 and the separation interface 4 is in the second position P2, the opening 23 is free and allows the access to the cavity 20 for carrying out, for example, maintenance operations more conveniently with respect to that which would result from operating uniquely through said inlet 21 and / or said outlet 22 (which, moreover are, with the device in use, connected to respective ducts and therefore not accessible). It should be noted that the passage of the separation interface 4 from the first position P1 to the second position P2 and vice versa requires that the container 3 is disassociated from the valvular body 2.

[0159] Preferably, as shown in figures, in the second position P2 the separation interface 4 is completely disassociated from the valvular body 2 and the opening is totally free for allowing the access to the cavity 20.

[0160] In light of the above, the first position P1 coincides with a configuration of use of the device 1 , wherein the separation interface 4 defines said channel 24 inside said valvular body 2. When said container 3 is applied to the valvular body 2 and the separation interface 4 is in the first portion P1 , there is a physical separation between the channel 24 and the compartment 30 so that the fluid exchange is possible uniquely through the at least one hole 41 , 42. In this configuration, the device 1 actually coincides with a traditional device of treatment of a fluid flow, wherein the valvular body does not have openings with the exception of the inlet (or of the inlets) and of the outlet (or of the outlets) for the fluid flow. More in detail, in the traditional devices of treatment of a fluid flow, the at least one hole is directly obtained on a wall of the valvular body, which autonomously defines the channel for the passage of the fluid between the inlet (or the inlets) and the outlet (or the outlets).

[0161] On the contrary, the second position P2 coincides with a maintenance configuration of the device 1 , wherein the separation interface 4 is detached from the valvular body 2. Therefore, when said container 3 is not applied to the valvular body 2 and the separation interface 4 is in the second position P2, the opening 23 is not obstructed and is possible to operate within the cavity 20, for example for carrying out maintenance and / or cleaning operations. In the traditional devices of treatment, the access to the channel defined within the valvular body is possible uniquely through the inlet (or the inlets) or the outlet (or the outlets). Consequently, in known devices, the maintenance and / or cleaning operations result particularly inconvenient and ineffective, and can only be carried out with the valvular body dismounted from the hydraulic system to which they are associated during their use. The possibility of being able to operate within the cavity 20 through the opening 23, the width thereof is considerably greater with respect to the one of the at least one inlet 21 and of the at least one outlet 22, allows to carry out the maintenance and / or cleaning operations in a quick and effective manner.

[0162] In a possible embodiment, the separation interface 4 can be movably mounted to the valvular body 2, for example by means of a hinge connection, and the passage between the first position P1 and the second position P2 occurs by means of a rotation, or a roto-translation, of the separation interface 4 with respect to the valvular body 2. In that case, the hinge connection maintains the separation interface 4 associated to the valvular body 2 in both the operating positions, avoiding the detachment of the separation interface from the valvular body when it is in said second position, allowing at the same time both to occlude the opening 23 when the separation interface is in first position, and to free the opening 23 for allowing an access to the cavity 20 when the separation interface is in second position. In this embodiment, the separation interface 4 acts as a movable door for the selective closing or access to the cavity of the valvular body 2.

[0163] In the shown embodiments, said device 1 comprises at least one filtering element 5. Said at least one filtering element 5 is housed, in a removable manner, inside said cavity 20. As it will become clearer below, said at least one filtering element 5 is in use steadily housed in said cavity 20, but can be disassociated from said valvular body 2. In the shown embodiments, the device 1 comprises a unique filtering element s; however, embodiments comprising two or more filtering elements 5 are in any case to be considered included in the scope of the present description and invention.

[0164] As shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, said filtering element 5 is interposed between said at least one inlet 21 and said at least one outlet 22 for filtering said fluid flow. In particular, said filtering element 5 is configured to filter at least said first fluid flow. As it will be described below, according to the embodiment, said filtering element is configured to filter uniquely said first fluid flow or both said first fluid flow and said second fluid flow, i.e. the entire fluid flow entering said valvular body through said at least one inlet. With reference to the attached figures and to the two shown embodiments, in the first embodiment (figures 1-6), the filtering element 5 is configured to filter the entire fluid flow that enters from said inlet. On the contrary, in the second embodiment (figures 7-12), the filtering element 5 is configured to filter uniquely the first fluid flow, i.e. the fluid flow that circulates directly from the inlet 21 to the outlet 22 in the channel 24 without temporarily transiting in the compartment 30. In particular, in this second embodiment, the second fluid flow, i.e. the flow that temporarily circulates within the compartment 30 for undergoing the treatment through said substance, is not filtered from said filtering element 5.

[0165] The filtering element 5 divides said channel in a first chamber 24A and a second chamber 24B. Said inlet 21 results facing said first chamber 24A, while said outlet 22 results directly facing said second chamber 24B. In particular, the union of said first chamber 24A and said second chamber 24B corresponds to said channel 24. Said fluid flow cannot directly pass from said first chamber 24A to said second chamber 24B or vice versa without traversing said filtering element 5.

[0166] In the first embodiment, as shown in figures 1-6, said filtering element 5 comprises a cylindrical filter. In this embodiment, said filtering element 5 comprises a filtering mesh having an substantially cylindrical overall conformation. In a second embodiment, shown in figures 7-12, said filtering element 5 comprises a planar septum. In this embodiment, said filtering element 5 has a substantially flat overall conformation and, preferably, has a supporting frame.

[0167] It should be noted that, when said container 3 is not applied to the valvular body 2 and the separation interface 4 is in the second position P2, the opening 23 allows the extraction of the at least one filtering element 5 from the valvular body 2. In this way, it is possible to provide for the replacement or cleaning operations of the at least one filtering element 5 in a particularly convenient way and the device 1 can be easily maintained in optimal conditions for an efficient functioning thereof.

[0168] As shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, said valvular body 2 comprises a lower wall 25 and a junction wall 26 in a relative lower portion adapted to contact said container 3 and said separation interface 4. Specifically, said lower wall 25 is substantially parallel to said vertical axis Z and defines said opening 23, while said junction wall 26 develops seamlessly with said lower wall 25 and is substantially perpendicular to said vertical axis Z. As it will become clearer below, said lower wall 25 and said junction wall 26 define a seat for the housing of said separation interface 4 and of at least one part of said container 3.

[0169] Preferably, said container 3 comprises a bottom wall 31 and at least one lateral wall 32 that develop seamlessly between them to define said compartment 30. In the shown embodiment, when said container 3 is associated to said valvular body 2, said bottom wall 31 results substantially perpendicular to said vertical axis Z and said lateral wall 32 is substantially parallel to said vertical axis Z.

[0170] Preferably, said separation interface 4 comprises a separating surface 43 and an edge surface 44. As shown in the attached figures, said separating surface 43 and said edge surface 44 are substantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to said vertical axis Z.

[0171] In a preferred embodiment, said separation interface 4 comprises a connection wall 44', substantially parallel to said vertical axis Z and connecting said separating surface 43 and said edge surface 44. In this embodiment, said separating surface 43 and said edge surface 44 lie on two distinct planes parallel to each other with said connecting surface 44' to physically unite them.

[0172] Preferably, when said separation interface 4 is in said first position P1 and said container 3 is applied to the valvular body 2, said separating surface 43 is interposed between said channel 24 and said compartment 30. In particular, said separating surface 43 represents the portion of the separation interface 4 that physically separates the channel 24 and the compartment 30, with the exception of the at least one hole 41 , 42. As shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, when said separation interface 4 is in said first position P1 and said container 3 is applied to the valvular body 2, said edge surface 44 contacts said junction wall 26 and said lateral wall 32. In detail, the edge surface 44 inferiorly contacts a top of the lateral wall 32. In other words, in the use configuration of the device 1 , the edge surface 44 is interposed between, and in contact with, said junction wall 26 and said lateral wall 32, in particular the top of the lateral wall 32.

[0173] In a preferred embodiment, said separating surface 43 has a substantially planar development and is provided with an upper side and a lower side. On one side, said upper side results facing, in use, said cavity 20 and, when said separation interface 4 is in said first portion P1 , concurs to define said channel 24. On the other side, said lower side results facing said container 3 and, when said separation interface 4 is in said first portion P1 , is configured to plug said compartment 30, with the exception of said at least one through hole 41 , 42.

[0174] In an embodiment, shown in the attached figures, said upper side comprises at least one seat 45 configured to house, in a removable manner, said at least one filtering element 5. Specifically, said at least one seat 45 on the upper side is configured to associate and position steadily, in a removable manner, said at least one filtering element 5 to said separation interface 4.

[0175] Advantageously, when the separation interface 4 passes from the first position P1 to the second position P2, the presence of the at least one seat 45 allows to directly extract the at least one filtering element 5 from the cavity 20 of the valvular body 2 for carrying out the replacement or cleaning operations of said at least one filtering element. On the contrary, when the separation interface 4 passes from the second position P2 to the first position P1 , the presence of the at least one seat 45 allows to correctly position the at least one filtering element 5 within the cavity 20.

[0176] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, said filtering element 5 is integral with said separation interface 4. In this embodiment, said filtering element 5 cannot be removed or separated from said separation interface 4.

[0177] Preferably, said lower side comprises a gripping element 46. Said gripping element 46 is configured to allow, and facilitate, a movement of said separation interface 4. In particular, said gripping element 46 is configured to allow a movement of said separation interface 4 between said first position P1 and said second position P2.

[0178] In the embodiments shown in the attached figures, said gripping element 46 corresponds to a substantially planar protuberance emerging from said lower side adapted to facilitate the gripping of the separation element 4 during the passages from the first position P1 to the second position P2.

[0179] Preferably, said container 3 comprises a striking lip 33. As shown in figures 6 and 12, said striking lip 33 develops from said lateral wall 32 away from said vertical axis Z. Specifically, said striking lip 33 emerges from the outer side of said lateral wall 32. According to what is shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, said striking lip 33 is configured to contact said lower wall 25 when said container 3 is applied to said valvular body 2. In other words, when said separation interface 4 is in said first position P1 and said container 3 is applied to the valvular body 2, the lower wall 25 of the valvular body externally wraps said separation interface 4 and the upper portion of said lateral wall 32 of the container 3, i.e. the portion of lateral wall placed above said striking lip 33.

[0180] As shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, said striking lip 33 is configured to define a seat for a gasket G. In particular, said gasket G is configured to avoid a leakage of fluid towards the outside between said valvular body 2 and said container 3.

[0181] Preferably, said device 1 comprises a stopping element 6 selectively movable between a blocking configuration C1 and a releasing configuration C2. Said blocking condition C1 is configured to maintain a stable association between said valvular body 2 and said container 3. In particular, in the blocking condition C1 , the stopping element 6 constrains said container 3 to the valvular body 2, avoiding its detachment. Said releasing configuration C2 is configured to allow a detachment between said valvular body 2 and said container 3. In particular, in the releasing configuration C2, the stopping element 6 releases the valvular body 2 and the container 3 so as to allow the relative detachment. As shown in sections of figures 6 and 12, in said blocking configuration C1 , said stopping element 6 strikes against said container 3 to prevent a relative movement between said container 3 and said valvular body 2. In particular, said blocking element 6 is configured to prevent a slipping downwards of said container 3 along said vertical axis Z. More in detail, in said blocking configuration C1 , said stopping element 6 inferiorly contacts said striking lip 33 so as to prevent the movement of said container 3 downwards along said vertical axis Z.

[0182] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying figures, said stopping element 6 comprises a thread ring nut. In this embodiment, said stopping element 6 is selectively movable between said blocking configuration C1 and said releasing configuration C2 by screwing.

[0183] As shown for example in figures 2 and 8, said stopping element 6 comprises a threading 61 on an inner surface and said lower wall 25 comprises a counter-threading 27 on an outer surface. In particular, said threading 61 is configured to engage with said counter-threading 27 so as to allow the passage of said stopping element 6 between the blocking configuration C1 and the releasing configuration C2 by screwing.

[0184] Preferably, said inlet 21 develops in said valvular body 2 along a first axis A1 . In particular, said inlet 21 develops inside said valvular body 2 for a determined length along said first axis A1 . In the shown embodiment, said inlet 21 has a substantially circular section in a cutting plane perpendicular to said first axis A1 .

[0185] Preferably, said outlet 22 develops in said valvular body 2 along a second axis A2. In particular, said outlet 22 develops inside said valvular body 2 for a determined length along said second axis A2. In the shown embodiment, said outlet 22 has a substantially circular section in a cutting plane perpendicular to said second axis A2.

[0186] In a first embodiment, shown by way of example in figures 1-6, said first axis A1 and said second axis A2 form between them an angle different from 180°. Specifically, in the first embodiment shown, said first axis A1 and said second axis A2 form between them an angle substantially equal to 90°. As shown in figure 6, said inlet 21 and said outlet 22 develop in said main body 2 along two axes perpendicular to each other. This embodiment is well suited to be interposed between two ducts orthogonal to each other, one thereof is associated to the inlet 21 , while the other is associated to the outlet 22.

[0187] In a second embodiment, shown by way of example in figures 7-12, said first axis A1 and said second axis A2 are parallel to each other. Preferably, said first axis A1 and said second axis A2 are coincident, i.e. lie on the same direction. As shown in figure 12, said inlet 21 and said outlet 22 develop in said main body 2 along a same axis, preferably in two opposed portions of this main body. Consequently, said channel 24 develops parallel to said first axis A1 and to said second axis A2 between said inlet 21 and said outlet 22. This embodiment is well suited to be interposed between two ducts parallel to each other, one thereof is associated to the inlet 21 while the other is associated to the outlet 22.

[0188] In a third embodiment (not shown), alternative to the two preceding ones but technically equivalent, said first axis A1 and said second axis A2 are skewed to each other. Depending on the final destination of use and on the arrangement of the ducts to be connected to the device 1 , one of the preceding embodiments can be preferred to the remaining embodiments. Preferably, said at least one through hole 41 , 42 comprises at least two through holes. In the embodiments respectively shown in figures 1-6 and in figures 7-12, said separation interface 4 comprises a first hole 41 and a second hole 42.

[0189] In the first embodiment (figures 1-6), said first hole 41 and said second hole 42 are both positioned at said first chamber 24A. In particular, in said first embodiment said first hole 41 is aligned along said first axis A1 . On the contrary, said second hole 42 is not aligned to said first axis A1 and is arranged in a perimeter section of said separation surface 43. In this embodiment, as shown in figure 6, the fluid flow entering from the inlet 21 is separated at the first chamber 24A. The second fluid flow traverses a through hole of the separation interface

[0190] 4, for example the first hole 41 , and enters the compartment 30 for undergoing the treatment by means of the substance. Subsequently, the second fluid flow traverses a through hole of the separation interface 4, for example the second hole 42, and re-enters the channel 24 in said first chamber 24A, where it rejoins the first fluid flow, which circulates uniquely in said first chamber. The fluid flow composed by the union of the first fluid flow and of the second fluid flow traverses then the filtering element 5, enters the second chamber 24B and exits from the device 1 through the outlet 22. Consequently, both the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow are filtered by the filtering element 5.

[0191] In the second embodiment (figures 7-12), said first hole 41 is positioned at said first chamber 24A and said second hole 42 is positioned at said second chamber 24B. In particular, in said embodiment, said first hole 41 and said second hole 42 are aligned along said first axis A1 and along said second A2. More in detail, the first hole 41 and the second hole 42 are specularly arranged with respect to said vertical axis Z and, above all, with respect to said filtering element 5. In this embodiment, as shown in figure 12, the fluid flow entering from the inlet 21 is separated at the first chamber 24A. The first fluid flow traverses the filtering element 5 and enters the second chamber 24B. The second fluid flow traverses the first hole 41 and enters the compartment 30 for undergoing the treatment by means of the substance. Subsequently, the second fluid flow traverses the second hole 42 and re-enters the channel 24, where it rejoins the first fluid flow at the second chamber 24B. The fluid flow composed by the union of the first fluid flow and of the second fluid flow exits then from the device 1 through the outlet 22. Therefore, in this embodiment, only the first fluid flow is filtered by the filtering element 5.

[0192] In an alternative embodiment, not shown, said first hole 41 and said second hole 42 are both positioned at said second chamber 24B. In this embodiment, the fluid flow entering from the inlet 21 traverses the filtering element

[0193] 5, passing from the first chamber 24A to the second chamber 24B where it undergoes the separation in said first flow and said second flow. The second fluid flow traverses a through hole of the separation interface 4, for example the first hole 41 , and enters the compartment 30 for undergoing the treatment by means of the substance. Subsequently, the second fluid flow traverses a through hole of the separation interface 4, for example the second hole 42, and re-enters the channel 24 in said second chamber 24B, where it rejoins the first fluid flow, that circulates uniquely in said second chamber 24B. The fluid flow composed by the union of the first fluid flow and of the second fluid flow exits then from the device 1 through the outlet 22. Consequently, in said embodiment, both the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow are filtered by the filtering element 5. Preferably, said valvular body 2 and said separation interface 4 are engageable with each other by means of a form coupling. Specifically, said valvular body 2 and said separation interface 4 are conformed in such a way that, in a determined reciprocal positioning, the physical interaction between at least a part of the respective contact surfaces guarantees the maintenance of the association between the two elements.

[0194] Preferably, said separation interface 4 comprises at least one first coupling element 47 and wherein said valvular body 2 comprises at least one second coupling element 28. Specifically, said at least one first coupling element 47 and said at least one second coupling element 28 are configured to ensure a determined relative positioning between said separation interface 4 and said valvular body 2.

[0195] In the shown embodiments, said at least one first coupling element 47 comprises a protuberance emerging from said edge surface 44 and said at least one second coupling element 28 comprises a seat, obtained in said junction wall 26 and counter-shaped to said protuberance.

[0196] In the first embodiment (figures 1-6), said separation interface 4 comprises a unique coupling element 47, namely a protuberance arranged in a portion of the separation interface 4 opposed to the portion wherein it is positioned said first hole 41 , and said valvular body 2 comprises a unique second coupling element 28, namely a seat arranged in a portion of the valvular body 2 opposed with respect to the portion wherein it is obtained said inlet 21.

[0197] In the second embodiment (figures 7-12), said separation interface 4 comprises two coupling elements 47, namely two protuberances arranged in opposed positions of the edge surface 44 and aligned to said first hole 41 and to said second hole 42, and said valvular body 2 comprises two second coupling elements 28, namely two seats arranged in opposed portions of the valvular body 2 inferiorly, respectively, to said inlet 21 and said outlet 22.

[0198] Preferably, said valvular body 2 comprises an exhaust valve 29 selectively openable for putting in fluid communication said channel 24 and an external environment. In particular, said exhaust valve 29 is configured to allow an outflow of fluid from said channel 24.

[0199] In the shown embodiments, said exhaust valve 29 comprises an orifice 29A, obtained in said valvular body 2, and a plugging element 29B, configured to be selectively associated to said valvular body 2 for occluding said orifice 29A.

[0200] As previously described, said substance contained in said compartment 30 is configured to release (typically melting) a predetermined percentage of a composition within the second fluid flow circulating inside said compartment 30.

[0201] Preferably, said substance comprises at least sodium polyphosphates and / or potassium polyphosphates. Specifically, in the embodiments wherein said substance comprises at least sodium polyphosphates and / or potassium polyphosphates, said device 1 is configured as a dispenser of polyphosphates.

[0202] Still preferably, said substance comprises a solid compound soluble in said second fluid flow.

[0203] In a preferred embodiment, said substance presents itself in the form of spheres.

[0204] In an alternative embodiment, said substance presents itself in the form of powder or granulate.

[0205] In another alternative embodiment, said substance presents itself in the form of crystals. Another object of the present description refers to a hydraulic system for a treatment of said fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow.

[0206] Specifically, said hydraulic system comprises:

[0207] - said previously described device 1 ;

[0208] - at least one inlet duct associated to said at least one inlet 21 for sending said fluid flow to said device 1 ;

[0209] - at least one outlet duct associated to said at least one outlet 22 for collecting said fluid flow from said device 1 ;

[0210] - a determined amount of said substance for a treatment of said fluid flow housed in said compartment 30.

[0211] The present description also has as its object a method of assembling of the device 1 for a treatment of said fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow.

[0212] Said method of assembling comprises the steps of:

[0213] - arranging the device 1 for a treatment of a fluid flow according to what has been previously described;

[0214] - positioning said separation interface 4 in said first position P1 at said opening 23 of said valvular body 2;

[0215] - associating said container s to said valvular body 2 maintaining said separation interface 4 interposed between said cavity 20 and said compartment 30.

[0216] Preferably, said method of assembling comprises a step of housing said at least one filtering element 5 at said cavity 20 between said at least one inlet 21 and said at least one outlet 22. In an embodiment, said step of housing said at least one filtering element 5 in said cavity 20 is carried out at the same time of the step of positioning said separation interface 4 in said first position P1. In particular, in said embodiment, said filtering element 5 is preventively positioned at said seat 45 present on the upper side of the separation interface 4. Therefore, the filtering element 5 is housed in said cavity 20 at the same time as the positioning of the separation interface in the first position P1. In an alternative embodiment, said step of housing said at least one filtering element 5 in said cavity 20 provides for housing said filtering element 5 at cavity 20 before the step of positioning said separation interface 4 in said first position P1. In this embodiment, the at least one filtering element 5 is housed in the cavity 20 through said opening 23, before the latter is closed by the positioning of the separation interface 4 in the first position P1.

[0217] Preferably, said step of associating said container 3 to said valvular body 2 provides for associating a blocking element 6 adapted to maintain a stable association between said valvular body 2 and said container 3. Specifically, said step of associating said blocking element 6 provides for positioning said blocking element 6 in said blocking configuration C1. More preferably, said step of associating said blocking element 6 provides for associating said blocking element 6 by screwing.

[0218] In addition, the present invention concerns a maintenance procedure of the device 1 according to what has been previously described.

[0219] Said maintenance procedure comprises the steps of:

[0220] - disassociating said container 3 from said valvular body 2;

[0221] - positioning said separation interface 4 in said second position P2 so as to free said opening 23 and allow an access to said cavity 20; - carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation;

[0222] - positioning said separation interface 4 in said first position P1 so as to occlude, with the exception of said at least one through hole 41 , 42, said opening 23;

[0223] - associating said container 3 to said valvular body 2.

[0224] Preferably, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out at least one cleaning operation of said cavity 20.

[0225] In particular, the step of positioning said separation interface 4 in said second position P2 allows to free the opening 23, which allows to operate with greater convenience within the cavity 20 of the valvular body 2. In this way, it is possible to generally carry out with an increased convenience the maintenance and / or cleaning operations of the cavity 20 and of the valvular body 2. More specifically, said maintenance procedure can be carried out without disassociating the device 1 from the at least one inlet duct and / or from the at least one outlet duct of the hydraulic system wherein it is installed. In fact, for accessing the cavity 20, it does not result to be necessary to operate through said at least one inlet 21 and / or said at least one outlet 22. On the contrary, the maintenance procedure provides preferably that the device 1 is maintained connected to said at least one inlet duct and to said at least one outlet duct, while the maintenance and cleaning operations are carried out through the opening 23, maintained free from the passage of said separation interface 4 to said second position P2.

[0226] Still preferably, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out at least one cleaning operation of said separation interface 4. By way of example, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation can provide for a maintenance operation at said at least one hole 41 , 42 in order to avoid its clogging due to the accumulation of dirt and / or limestone residues.

[0227] Also, in the embodiments wherein the device 1 comprises at least one filtering element 5, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation comprises at least one cleaning or a replacement of said at least one filtering element 5 housed, preferably in a removable manner, in said cavity 20. Specifically, the maintenance procedure allows a convenient extraction of said filtering element 5 from the cavity 20 wherein it is housed in use. In fact, due to the impurities typically present in the fluid flow, in particular in sanitary water, said filtering element 5 tends to clog due to the accumulation of residues and / or dirt. Therefore, in order to keep the device 1 in the ideal conditions for a proper functioning, the at least one filtering element 5 must be periodically cleaned or replaced. The step of positioning said separation interface 4 in said second position P2 allows to free the opening 23, which has an extension so as to allow the convenient extraction of the filtering element 5 to provide in a practical and efficient way for replacement or cleaning operations.

[0228] Preferably, said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation provides for carrying out a recharge of the substance inside the compartment 30 of the container 3. In fact, during the use of the device 1 , part of the substance present inside the compartment 30 is continuously dissolved in the second fluid flow. In the long term, if no recharging (i.e., addition) operations were carried out, the substance in the compartment 30 would be completely dissolved and the fluid flow transiting within the device 1 would not be treated. ADVANTAGES OF THE FINDING

[0229] The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several changes and variants, all of which falling within the scope of the inventive concept, and the mentioned components are replaceable by other technically equivalent elements.

[0230] The invention involves significant technical effects and achieves important advantages. First of all, as clearly emerges from the above-mentioned description, the invention allows to overcome the drawbacks of the background art.

[0231] Firstly, the possibility of having a separation interface 4 selectively movable between the first position P1 and the second position P2 allows to carry out maintenance and cleaning operations of the valvular body in an extremely convenient and effective manner. In fact, in the traditional solutions the access to the cavity of the valvular body is allowed uniquely through the inlets and the outlets, which have a reduced diameter, thus making maintenance operations difficult.

[0232] In addition, the device 1 allows to carry out the maintenance and / or cleaning operations without the device itself being disconnected from the ducts of the hydraulic system wherein it is installed. On the contrary, in known solutions, the need to operate through the same inlets and outlets used for the inflow and the outflow of fluid makes necessary the at least partial uninstallation of the device from the system wherein it is integrated.

[0233] Also, when the separation interface 4 is in the second position P2, the device 1 allows the extraction of the at least one filtering element 5 housed within the cavity 20. Due to the impurities typically present in the fluid flow, in particular in the sanitary water, said filtering element 5 tends to clog due to the accumulation of residues and / or dirt. Therefore, in order to maintain the device 1 under ideal conditions for a proper functioning, the at least one filtering element 5 must be periodically cleaned or replaced. In traditional devices, the extraction of the filtering element is typically complicated or even impossible due to the small size of the inlets and / or of the outlets. On the contrary, the device 1 has the opening 23 that, when not obstructed by the separation interface 4, has an extension so as to allow the convenient extraction of the filtering element 5 for providing for the replacement or cleaning operations. The convenience of the maintenance and / or cleaning operations allows to have a device that it is almost always in optimal conditions for an efficient treatment of a fluid flow, in particular of a sanitary water flow. The device 1 according to the present invention has a solid, simple and rational structure. In particular, the device 1 according to the present invention can be produced at a competitive price, substantially equal to the one of traditional devices of treatment of a fluid flow.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Device (1) for a treatment of a fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow, said device (1) comprising:- a valvular body (2) defining within itself a cavity (20), said valvular body (2) comprising:- at least one inlet (21) facing said cavity (20) for receiving said fluid flow entering said device (1);- at least one outlet (22) facing said cavity (20) for allowing an outflow of said fluid flow from said device (1); and- an access opening (23) to said cavity (20);- at least one container (3) configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body (2) at said opening (23) and defining at least one compartment (30) configured to receive a substance for a treatment of said fluid flow, said container (3) being positioned below said valvular body (2) along a vertical axis (Z);- a separation interface (4) configured to be associated, in a removable manner, to said valvular body (2) at said opening (23) for defining, in said cavity (20), a channel (24) extending between said at least one inlet (21) and said at least one outlet (22); said separation interface (4) having at least one through hole (41 , 42); wherein said separation interface (4) is selectively movable between:- a first position (P1), wherein said separation interface (4) is associated to said valvular body (2) and occludes said opening (23), with the exception of said at least one through hole (41, 42), said separation interface (4) separating said channel (24) and said compartment (30) from each other;- a second position (P2), wherein said separation interface (4) is at least partially disassociated from said valvular body (2) and said opening (23) is at least partially free for allowing an access to said cavity (20); and wherein said at least one through hole (41 , 42) is configured to allow a fluid communication between said channel (24) and said compartment (30); said at least one through hole (41 , 42) being configured to separate said fluid flow in a first fluid flow, circulating uniquely in said channel (24) between said at least one inlet (21) and said at least one outlet (22), and a second fluid flow, traversing said at least one through hole (41 , 42) for circulating in said at least one compartment (30) and undergoing a treatment by means of said substance.

2. Device (1) according to claim 1 comprising at least one filtering element (5) housed, in a removable manner, inside said cavity (20); and / or wherein said at least one filtering element (5) is interposed between said at least one inlet (21) and said at least one outlet (22); and / or wherein said at least one filtering element (5) is configured to filter at least said first fluid flow; and / or wherein said filtering element (5) divides said channel (24) in a first chamber (24A), on which said at least one inlet (21) is faced, and a second chamber (24B), on which said at least one outlet (22) is faced; and / or wherein said at least one filtering element (5) comprises a cylindrical filter and / or a planar septum.

3. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said at least one through hole (41 , 42) comprises at least two holes, namely a first hole (41) and a second hole (42); and / or wherein said first hole (41) and said second hole (42) are both positioned at said first chamber (24A); and / or wherein said first hole (41) is positionedat said first chamber (24A) and said second hole (42) is positioned at said second chamber (24B); and / or wherein said first hole (41) and said second hole (42) are both positioned at said second chamber (24B).

4. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said valvular body (2) comprises a lower wall (25), substantially parallel to said vertical axis (Z) and defining said opening (23), and a junction wall (26), developing seamlessly with said lower wall (25) and substantially perpendicular to said vertical axis (Z); and / or wherein said container (3) comprises a bottom wall (31) and at least one lateral wall (32) which develops seamlessly between them to define said compartment (30); and / or wherein said separation interface (4) comprises a separating surface (43) and an edge surface (44), substantially parallel to each other and perpendicular to said vertical axis (Z), said separation interface (4) comprising preferably a connection wall (44'), substantially parallel to said vertical axis (Z) and connecting said separating surface (43) and said edge surface (44); and / or wherein, when said separation interface (4) is in said first position (P1) and said container (3) is applied to the valvular body (2), said separating surface (43) is interposed between said channel (24) and said compartment (30) and said edge surface (44) contacts said junction wall (26) and said lateral wall (32).

5. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said separating surface (43) presents a upper side, facing said cavity (20), and a lower side, facing said container (3); and / or wherein said upper side comprises at least one seat (45) configured to house, in a removable manner, said at least one filtering element (5); and / or wherein said filtering element (5) is integral with said separation interface (4); and / or wherein said lower side comprises a gripping element (46) for a movement of said separation interface (4).

6. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said container (3) comprises a striking lip (33) developing from said lateral wall (32) away from said vertical axis (Z); and / or wherein said striking lip (33) is configured to contact said lower wall (25) when said container (3) is applied to said valvular body (2); and / or wherein said striking lip (33) is configured to define a seat for a gasket (G), said gasket (G) being configured to avoid a leakage of fluid towards the outside between said valvular body (2) and said container (3).

7. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a stopping element (6) selectively movable between a blocking configuration (C1), adapted to maintain a stable association between said valvular body (2) and said container (3), and a releasing configuration (C2), adapted to allow a detachment between said valvular body (2) and said container (3); and / or wherein, in said blocking configuration (C1), said stopping element (6) strikes against said container (3) to prevent a relative movement between said container (3) and said valvular body (2); and / or wherein said stopping element (6) comprises a thread ring nut; and / or wherein said stopping element (6) is selectively movable between said blocking configuration (C1) and said releasing configuration (C2) by screwing.

8. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said stopping element (6) comprises a threading (61) on an inner surface; and / or wherein said lower wall (25) comprises a counter-threading (27) on an outer surface; and / or wherein said threading (61) is configured to engage with said counter-threading (27); and / or wherein, in said blocking configuration (C1), said stopping element (6) inferiorly contacts said striking lip (33).

9. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one inlet (21) develops in said valvular body (2) along a first axis (A1) and said at least one outlet (22) develops in said valvular body (2) alonga second axis (A2); and / or wherein said device (1) comprises a single inlet (21) and a single outlet (22); and / or wherein said first axis (A1) and said second axis (A2) are parallel to each other, preferably coincident; and / or wherein said first axis (A1) and said second axis (A2) form between them an angle different from 180°, preferably an angle substantially equal to 90°; and / or wherein said first axis (A1) and said second axis (A2) are skewed to each other.

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said valvular body (2) and said separation interface (4) are engageable with each other by means of a form coupling; and / or wherein said separation interface (4) comprises at least one first coupling element (47) and wherein said valvular body (2) comprises at least one second coupling element (28), said at least one first coupling element (47) and said at least one second coupling element (28) being configured to ensure a determined relative positioning between said valvular body (2) and said separation interface (4); and / or wherein said at least one first coupling element (47) comprises a protuberance emerging from said edge surface (44) and said at least one second coupling element (28) comprises a seat, obtained in said junction wall (26) and counter-shaped to said protuberance.

11. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said valvular body (2) comprises an exhaust valve (29) selectively openable for putting in fluid communication said channel (24) and an external environment; and / or wherein said exhaust valve (29) comprises an orifice (29A) and a plugging element (29B), configured to be selectively associated to said valvular body (2) for occluding said orifice (29A); and / or wherein said substance contained in said compartment (30) is configured to release a predetermined percentage of a composition within said second fluid flow circulating within said compartment (30); and / or wherein said substance comprises at least sodium polyphosphates and / or potassium polyphosphates; and / or wherein said substance comprises a solid compound soluble in said second fluid flow; and / or wherein said substance presents itself in the form of spheres; and / or wherein said substance presents itself in the form of powder or granulate; and / or wherein said substance presents itself in the form of crystals.

12. Hydraulic system for a treatment of a fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow, said system comprising:- a device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims;- at least one inlet duct associated to said at least one inlet (21) for sending said fluid flow to said device (1);- at least one outlet duct associated to said at least one outlet (22) for collecting said fluid flow from said device (1);- a determined amount of a substance for a treatment of said fluid flow housed in said compartment (30).

13. Method of assembling a device (1) for a treatment of a fluid flow, in particular for a chemical treatment of said fluid flow, said method of assembling comprising the steps of:- arranging a device (1) according to any one of the claims 1-11 ;- positioning said separation interface (4) in said first position (P1 ) at said opening (23) of said valvular body (2);- associating said container (3) to said valvular body (2) maintaining said separation interface (4) interposed between said cavity (20) and said compartment (30).

14. Method of assembling according to the preceding claim comprising a step of housing a filtering element (5) in said cavity (20) between said at least one inlet (21) and said at least one outlet (22); and / or wherein said step of associating said container (3) to said valvular body (2) provides for associating a blocking element (6) adapted to maintain a stable association between said valvular body (2) and said container (3).

15. Maintenance procedure of a device (1) according to any one of the claims from 1 to 11 comprising the steps of:- disassociating said container (3) from said valvular body (2);- positioning said separation interface (4) in said second position (P2) so as to free said opening (23) and allow an access to said cavity (20); - carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation of said cavity (20), said step of carrying out at least one maintenance and / or cleaning operation comprising preferably at least one cleaning or a replacement of at least one filtering element (5) housed in said cavity (20);- positioning said separation interface (4) in said first position (P1) so as to occlude, with the exception of said at least one through hole (41 , 42), said opening (23); - associating said container (3) to said valvular body (2).

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