Distributing device and related heating plant

Abstract

A fluid distributing device (1), particularly adapted to be installed in a heating plant (100), comprising a boxed body (2) defining a supporting and containing structure, a first branch (10) in fluid communication with an accumulation apparatus (A) and a heater apparatus (H) and comprising a filtering element (13), a second branch (20) in fluid communication with said at least one radiating element (R) and with said accumulation apparatus, a third branch (30) in fluid communication with said at least one radiating element and with said heater apparatus or said accumulation apparatus. Said device is configurable in a first configuration (C1), wherein said third branch comprises a pump (33), and a second configuration (C2), wherein said third branch (30) comprises a stub pipe (34) or tubular tract.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] DISTRIBUTING DEVICE AND RELATED HEATING PLANT

[0003] FIELD OF THE FINDING

[0004] The present finding has as its object a fluid distributing device. In particular, the present finding refers to a distributing device of a thermal fluid, typically thermal water, adapted to be installed in the context of a hydraulic plant, specifically a heating plant. The present finding has particular application in the context of domestic- and / or industrial-type heating plants. Preferably, the device according to the present finding is engaged for the distribution of thermal water in a heating plant between a heater apparatus, such as for example a boiler or a heat pump, and radiating elements, such as radiators or coils of a floor heating plant, suitable for conditioning the temperature of an environment.

[0005] In addition, the present finding relates to a heating plant comprising said distributing device of the thermal fluid.

[0006] STATE OF THE ART

[0007] As it is well known, hydraulic plants comprise a plurality of operating devices configured to distribute and / or treat the fluid flow circulating in the plant, generally represented by water. A particular typology of hydraulic plants is represented by heating plants, which are responsible for the management of the temperature of one or more environments of a residential- and / or commercial-type building.

[0008] In their minimum elements, heating plants comprise:

[0009] - one or more radiating devices configured to release heat, stored within the thermal water, to an environment to be heated;

[0010] - at least one heater apparatus capable of heating the thermal water circulating within the heating plant itself. Depending on the embodiments of the heating plant, radiating elements can take different forms. In radiator heating plants, radiating elements typically assume the shape of radiators, convector heaters or heating plants, installed within the environments to be heated. In floor heating plants, radiating elements assume the shape of ducts or coils, installed below the flooring of the environment to be thermally conditioned.

[0011] Analogously, also the heater apparatus capable of heating the thermal water can also assume different conformations. In a first embodiment, the heating plant can comprise a boiler, such as a condensing boiler, configured to heat the thermal water by means of a combustion process, generally of a gas such as methane. In a second embodiment, the heating plant may be provided with a heat pump comprising a compressor, an expander and opportune heat exchangers to remove heat from the outer environment and to heat the thermal water circulating in the heating plant.

[0012] Other heating plants may incorporate devices capable of using renewable energy sources, such as for example a thermal solar system. In addition to radiating devices and heater apparatus (boiler or heat pump), such plants generally comprise thermal collectors, a thermal storage tank (thermal storage), a hydraulic unit and a control system. Typically, within the buildings comprising the environments to be thermally managed, the heater apparatus and radiating elements are located at distance from each other. Therefore, it is necessary to connect the heater apparatus to the radiating elements by means of thermal water distributing systems. Said distributing systems comprise a plurality of pipes, installed within the building so as to allow the fluid heated at the level of the heater apparatus to reach the radiating elements, where the heat stored in the fluid can be released to the environment to be heated.

[0013] It should be noted that the heater apparatus is typically installed in peripheral positions of the building or even outside the building itself. Also, it should be noted that commonly heating plants manage, centrally or independently, multiple environments, each served by one or more radiating elements. In light of the above, in the majority of heating plants nowadays implemented in residential and / or commercial solutions, the distributing systems are configured as complex piping systems, the installation of which is difficult. The complexity of distributing systems makes subsequent operations of maintenance and / or repair in case of failures even more problematic.

[0014] In addition, due to current safety regulations, it is necessary to provide heating plants with one or more devices capable of ensuring the safety of the plant itself during the operation of heating functions.

[0015] Also, in order to eliminate impurities present in the circulating water flow, heating plants are typically provided with one or more filtering devices. Such filtering devices are configured to be affected by the flow circulating within the plant in order to retain impurities, such as for example solid particles, and / or in order to subject the fluid flow to a chemical treatment, such as an anti-scale treatment.

[0016] The above-mentioned safety devices and filtering devices are generally installed individually and in a distributed manner within the heating plant. In such a case, the known heating plants have the different functional components located at a distance from each other.

[0017] In light of the above, it follows that, nowadays, the design and subsequent installation of a heating plant is extremely costly. In particular, for each building, the heating plant must be designed ad hoc, without being able to rely on universal solutions suitable for being adapted to different typologies of heating plants. As an example, a known thermal water distributing device is described in document EP2372257A2 on behalf of the same Applicant.

[0018] It should be noted that the heating plants commonly adopted in buildings have two main configurations.

[0019] A first configuration of the heating plant provides for two main circuits: a primary circuit, wherein the heater apparatus is installed, and a secondary circuit, wherein the radiating elements are installed. The primary circuit and the secondary circuit are interconnected to each other in correspondence of a separating device, such as for example an inertial storage, so that the water at lower temperature returning from the radiating elements can be replaced by water at higher temperature on the outlet branch of the secondary circuit to manage the temperature of the environments served by the same radiating elements.

[0020] A second typology of heating plants presents a single circuit wherein the heater apparatus and radiating elements are installed. In that typology of heating plant, the hot water produced by the heater apparatus directly reaches the radiating elements, passing through the distributing system. Nowadays, the distributing systems implemented in the two above-described typologies of heating plants are designed and installed following completely different principles and procedures. With the exception of the presence of some common elements, a distributing system designed for a heating plant for the first typology of heating plant is so different from any other distributing system that cannot be modified, except by a total redesign, for an operation with the second typology of heating plant and vice versa.

[0021] Based on the above, the Applicant noted that the heating plants known nowadays require onerous design and installation activities of the distributing systems capable of connecting the heater apparatus to the radiating elements.

[0022] In addition, the Applicant noted that the distributing systems currently implemented in heating plants are designed ad hoc for each installation. Consequently, the modification and adaptation operations of such distributing systems are complicated and typically require particularly long time timings.

[0023] PURPOSE OF THE FINDING

[0024] The general purpose of the present finding is therefore to solve at least one of the drawbacks and / or limitations of the preceding solutions.

[0025] One purpose of the finding is to provide a distributing device of a thermal fluid, preferably thermal water, suitable for being used in the context of a distributing system of a heating plant. In particular, purpose of the present finding is to provide a distributing device that has a particularly simplified installation.

[0026] Another purpose of the present finding is to provide a distributing device that considerably simplifies and speeds up the design and installation operations of the distributing system of a heating plant with respect to known distributing systems.

[0027] Further purpose of the present finding is to provide a distributing device that condenses, in a single apparatus, most of the functional elements typically installed within a traditional distributing system of a heating plant. Another purpose of the present finding is to propose a distributing device with a particularly compact structure. It is also the purpose of the present finding to offer a distributing device that, by concentrating in a single body all the functional elements of a traditional distributing system, makes all the components easily accessible and thus facilitates the maintenance operations of the heating plant wherein it is installed.

[0028] Further purpose of the present finding is to provide a distributing device that minimizes the possibilities of errors during the installation.

[0029] Still another purpose of the present finding is to provide a distributing device that is extremely flexible. In particular, the purpose of the present finding is to propose a distributing device that adapts, with simplicity and immediacy, to different typologies of heating plants. Specifically, the purpose of the present finding is to propose a distributing device that does not require other than a modest redesign of the distributing system to adapt to a different typology of heating plant.

[0030] It is also the purpose of the present finding to describe a substantially universal distributing device, that is, one that can be used in even considerably different heating plants.

[0031] Further purpose of the present finding is to propose a heating plant comprising said distributing device. Another purpose of the present finding is to provide a heating plant with particularly simplified design and installation with respect to heating plants used in buildings nowadays.

[0032] Yet another purpose of the present finding is to provide a heating plant whose maintenance operations are particularly simple and fast.

[0033] Another purpose of the present finding is to provide a heating plant that can be easily modified and re-adapted even after the first installation.

[0034] It is a further purpose of the present finding to provide an installation method of a heating plant comprising said distributing device. Specifically, purpose of the present finding is to provide an installation method that is particularly simple to perform.

[0035] Other purpose of the present finding is to provide an installation method of a heating plant that is particularly flexible and implementable for even considerably different typologies of heating plants.

[0036] These purposes, and any others, which will better result in the course of the following description, are substantially achieved by a distributing device of a thermal fluid, a heating plant comprising said distributing device and an installation method of a heating plant according to one or more of the attached claims, each of which taken alone (without relative dependent claims) 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.

[0037] SUMMARY

[0038] According to a first aspect, the present finding concerns a distributing device of a thermal fluid. In particular, the present finding concerns a distributing device of thermal water in the context of a heating plant suitable for conditioning the temperature of one or more environments of a building for residential and / or commercial purposes. Therefore, the distributing device that is the subject of the present document has particular application in the context of a heating plant.

[0039] In an aspect, said distributing device is particularly adapted to be installed in the context of a heating plant comprising at least one radiating element, a heater apparatus and an accumulation apparatus. The functions of the additional components of the heating plant will become clearer later in the present document.

[0040] In an aspect, said at least one radiating element is configured to be installed within or near an environment to be thermally conditioned, in particular to be heated. In other words, said at least one radiating element is operatively connected to at least one environment for a relative temperature management. Specifically, said at least one radiating element is configured to exchange heat with said at least one environment to be thermally conditioned. Preferably, said at least one radiating element is configured to release heat, stored within the thermal fluid circulating in the heating plant, to the at least one environment to which it is operatively connected. In an aspect, said at least one heater apparatus is configured to vary the temperature of the thermal fluid, in particular of the thermal water, circulating within the heating plant. In particular, the heater apparatus is configured to heat the thermal fluid circulating within said heating plant. In an aspect, said accumulation apparatus is configured to store thermal fluid and ensure a more efficient management of energy resources in addition to optimizing the operation of additional components of the heating plant.

[0041] In an aspect, said distributing device is configured to distribute the thermal fluid circulating within said heating plant between said at least one radiating element, said heater apparatus and said accumulation apparatus.

[0042] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a boxed body. Said a boxed body defines a supporting and containing structure for additional components of said distributing device. Specifically, the components of the distributing device which will be described below result to be supported and at least partially housed within the boxed body.

[0043] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a first branch, housed in said boxed body and extending between a first inlet and a first outlet. In particular, said first branch is configured to allow a first fluid flow between said first inlet and said first outlet. Specifically, said first inlet and said first outlet are positioned in correspondence of respective walls, preferably opposite walls, of the boxed body.

[0044] In an aspect, said first inlet and said first outlet are the only portions of the first branch that are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the first inlet and the first outlet represent the interfaces of the first branch outwards, i.e., toward the rest of the heating plant.

[0045] In an aspect, said first inlet is configured to be put in fluid communication with said accumulation apparatus for receiving said first fluid flow.

[0046] In an aspect, said first outlet is configured to be put in communication with said heater apparatus for sending said first fluid flow. In other words, said first outlet is configured to be connected to the return pipe of the thermal fluid to the heater apparatus.

[0047] In an aspect, said first branch comprises a filtering element, interposed between said first inlet and said first outlet. Said filtering element is configured to filter said first fluid flow.

[0048] In a preferred aspect, said filtering element comprises a sludge removing filter configured to filter impurities present in the first fluid flow, which, if not filtered out, could affect the operation of the entire heating plant wherein the distributing device is installed.

[0049] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a second branch, housed in said boxed body and extending between a second inlet and a second outlet. In particular, said second branch is configured to allow a second fluid flow between said second inlet and said second outlet. Specifically, said second inlet and said second outlet are positioned in correspondence of respective walls, preferably opposite walls, of the boxed body. Even more preferably, said second inlet and said second outlet are positioned in correspondence of the same walls as the boxed body upon which they are positioned said first inlet and said first outlet.

[0050] In an aspect, said second inlet and said second outlet are the only portions of said second branch which are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the second inlet and the second outlet represent the interfaces of the second branch outwards, i.e., toward the rest of the heating plant. In an aspect, said second inlet is configured to be put in fluid communication with said at least one radiating element for receiving said second fluid flow. In other words, said second inlet is configured to be connected to the return pipe of the thermal fluid from at least one radiating element.

[0051] In an aspect, said second outlet is configured to be put in communication with said accumulation apparatus for sending said second fluid flow.

[0052] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a third branch, housed in said boxed body and extending between a third inlet and a third outlet. In particular, said third branch is configured to allow a third fluid flow between said third inlet and said third outlet. Specifically, said third inlet and said third outlet are positioned in correspondence of respective walls, preferably opposite walls, of the boxed body. Even more preferably, said third inlet and said third outlet are positioned in correspondence of the same walls of the boxed body upon which are positioned said first inlet, said first outlet, said second inlet and said second outlet.

[0053] In an aspect, said third inlet and said third outlet are the only portions of said third branch which are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the third inlet and the third outlet represent the interfaces of the third branch outwards, i.e., toward the rest of the heating plant.

[0054] In an aspect, said third inlet is configured to be put in fluid communication with said heater apparatus or said accumulation apparatus for receiving said third fluid flow.

[0055] In an aspect, said third outlet is configured to be put in communication with said at least one radiating element for sending said third fluid flow. In other words, said third outlet is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe of the thermal fluid to said at least one radiating element.

[0056] In an aspect, said distributing device is configurable, selectively and in a mutually exclusive manner, in at least one of the following configurations:

[0057] - a first configuration wherein said third branch comprises a pump, in an operating position interposed between said third inlet and said third outlet, configured to exert on said third fluid flow a pushing action toward said third outlet;

[0058] - a second configuration wherein said third branch comprises a stub pipe or tubular tract, in said operating position interposed between said third inlet and said third outlet, configured to allow a fluid continuity between said third inlet and said third outlet.

[0059] In an aspect, said pump and said stub pipe are interchangeable with each other depending on the configuration assumed by the distributing device. Specifically, when the distributing device assumes said first configuration, the third branch presents said pump in said operating position interposed between said third inlet and said third outlet. On the contrary, when the distributing device assumes said second configuration, the third branch presents said stub pipe in the same operating position interposed between said third inlet and said third outlet. In an aspect, said stub pipe comprises a passive tubular segment suitable for being installed in an intermediate position of said third branch to allow the transit of said third fluid flow between the third inlet and the third outlet. According to the embodiments, the stub pipe may have the same diameter as the remaining portion of the third branch or may have a different, preferably larger, diameter than the remaining portion of the third branch. In an aspect, when said device is in said first configuration, said third inlet is configured to be connected to said accumulation apparatus.

[0060] In an aspect, when said device is in said second configuration, said third inlet is configured to be connected to said heater apparatus. In other words, said third inlet is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe of the thermal fluid heated by said heater apparatus.

[0061] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises an expansion vessel and an expansion duct, suitable for connecting said expansion vessel to at least one among said first branch, said second branch and said third branch. In particular, said expansion vessel is configured to compensate for volumetric expansions of said thermal fluid due to variations of the temperature of the same fluid. It is in fact known that the volume occupied by a fluid varies according to its internal temperature. In the absence of safety devices such as an expansion vessel, as the temperature of the circulating thermal fluid increases, the pressure in the heating plant could increase to the point of being potentially detrimental to the integrity of the components installed therein.

[0062] In a preferred aspect, said expansion duct is configured to connect said expansion vessel to said first branch. In other words, according to that aspect, the expansion vessel is operatively connected to the first branch for compensating for the volumetric expansions of the fluid circulating within of the heating plant.

[0063] In an aspect, said expansion duct is connected to said first branch substantially in correspondence of the said first outlet.

[0064] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a loading branch extending between a loading inlet and at least one among said first branch, said second branch and said third branch.

[0065] In a preferred aspect, said loading branch extends between said loading inlet and said first branch, more preferably in a position interposed between said filtering element and said first outlet, i.e., in a point of the first branch downstream of the filtering element.

[0066] It should be noted that, in the present document, the expressions "downstream” and "upstream” are to be intended as typically used in the hydraulic field, that is, referred to the direction of the fluid flow in the normal use of the distributing device in the context of the heating plant wherein it is installed. In that setting, the fluid flow goes from upstream to downstream.

[0067] In an aspect, said loading inlet is positioned in correspondence of a wall of said boxed body.

[0068] In an aspect, said loading inlet is configured to be connected to a fluid source for supplying said thermal fluid in said heating plant. Preferably, said fluid source coincides with the water network for supplying thermal water through said loading inlet.

[0069] In an aspect, said loading branch comprises a filter configured to filter the fluid entering into said loading inlet. Preferably, said filter is a Y filter configured to filter the impurities of the fluid entering through said loading inlet. In an aspect, said loading branch comprises an anti-pollution organ, such as for example a disconnector or a check valve, placed downstream of said filter and configured to prevent a reverse flow of fluid toward said loading inlet, i.e., in the opposite direction with respect to that of the fluid loaded by the fluid source through said loading inlet. In a preferred aspect, said loading branch is provided with a faucet, operatively connected to said loading inlet and openable in a selective way as to allow a thermal fluid flow from said fluid source through said loading inlet. In an aspect, said distributing device comprises an unloading branch ending in an unloading outlet. As it will become clearer from the following description, said unloading outlet is configured for an outflow of thermal fluid from said distributing device.

[0070] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a safety valve. In particular, said unloading branch extends between said unloading outlet and said safety valve.

[0071] In an aspect, said safety valve is also connected to at least one among said first branch, said second branch and said third branch through a first unloading duct.

[0072] In an aspect, said safety valve is a pressure-controlled valve, configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value within one among said first branch, said second branch and said third branch is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when said pressure value is lower than said threshold.

[0073] In a preferred aspect, said first unloading duct is configured to connect said safety valve to said first branch, more preferably in a position downstream of the filtering element.

[0074] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a second unloading duct, extending between said unloading branch and said loading branch in correspondence of said anti-pollution organ.

[0075] In an aspect, said second unloading duct is configured to send to said unloading outlet a reverse flow of thermal fluid and not intercepted by said anti-pollution organ, preferably in the present case said disconnector. In other words, said second unloading duct is configured to fix a malfunction on the loading branch of the anti-pollution organ, preferably in the present case said disconnector.

[0076] In an aspect, said filtering element comprises a draining valve, selectively openable to allow a draining of the thermal fluid present in an inner chamber of said filtering element. Said draining valve is configured to empty the inner chamber of the filtering element, for example, to allow to perform maintenance operations of the filtering element itself.

[0077] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a third unloading duct extending between said draining valve and said second unloading duct or said unloading branch. Specifically, said third unloading duct is configured to send to said unloading outlet the thermal fluid drained from the inner chamber of the filtering element through said draining valve.

[0078] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a by-pass duct, extending between said second branch and said third branch preferably in a position between said third outlet and said pump or said stub pipe, and a bypass valve, active on said by-pass duct to enable a fluid communication directed from said third branch to said second branch.

[0079] In an aspect, said by-pass valve is positioned on said second branch and is interposed between said second inlet and said second outlet.

[0080] In an aspect, said by-pass valve is a pressure-controlled valve configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value of the third fluid flow in said third branch is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when said pressure value is lower than said threshold. In an aspect, when said by-pass valve is at least partially open, said by-pass duct is configured to send to said second branch at least part of said third fluid flow circulating toward said third outlet.

[0081] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises a manometer, or an equivalent pressure control device, configured to detect a pressure value in a position of the heating plant. Said manometer results particularly useful during loading operations of the thermal fluid within the heating plant, for example through said loading branch, as it allows to keep monitored the pressure value increase during loading operations.

[0082] In an aspect, said distributing device comprises at least one of the following elements:

[0083] - a first shut-off valve, preferably integrated in said filtering element, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said first fluid flow entering from said first inlet;

[0084] - a second shut-off valve, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of or upstream of said first outlet, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said first fluid flow outgoing from said first outlet;

[0085] - a third shut-off valve, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said second inlet, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said second fluid flow entering from said second inlet;

[0086] - a fourth shut-off valve, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said second outlet, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said second fluid flow outgoing from said second outlet;

[0087] - a fifth shut-off valve, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said third inlet, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said third fluid flow entering from said third inlet;

[0088] - a sixth shut-off valve, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said third outlet, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said third fluid flow outgoing from said third outlet.

[0089] According to a further aspect, the present finding concerns a heating plant. Specifically, said heating plant is configured to thermally condition, preferably to heat, at least one environment.

[0090] In an aspect, said heating plant comprises:

[0091] - a heater apparatus configured to heat a thermal fluid circulating within said plant;

[0092] - at least one radiating element operatively connected to said at least one environment for a heat exchange between said thermal fluid and said at least one environment;

[0093] - an accumulation apparatus configured to store within itself a determined amount of said thermal fluid circulating within the plant;

[0094] - a distributing device according to one or more of the aspects previously introduced.

[0095] In an aspect, the heating plant presents the following connections between inlets and outlets of the distributing device and the additional components of said plant:

[0096] - said first inlet is connected to said accumulation apparatus;

[0097] - said first outlet is connected to said heater apparatus;

[0098] - said second inlet is connected to said at least one radiating element;

[0099] - said second outlet is connected to said accumulation apparatus;

[0100] - said third outlet is connected to said at least one radiating element. It should be noted that the connection of the inlets / outlets of the distributing device with the components of the heating plant is realized with pipes suitable for allowing the passage of the thermal fluid between the distributing device and the corresponding component of the heating plant.

[0101] In an aspect, when said distributing device is in said first configuration, said heater apparatus is connected to said accumulation apparatus and said third inlet is connected to said accumulation apparatus.

[0102] In an aspect, when said distributing device is in said second configuration, said third inlet is connected to said heater apparatus.

[0103] In an aspect, said heater apparatus is a heat pump.

[0104] In an alternative aspect, said heater apparatus is a boiler operatively associated to a circulation pump.

[0105] In an aspect, said accumulation apparatus comprises an inertial storage, also named inertial puffer.

[0106] In an aspect, said radiating element comprises at least one among a radiator, a convector heater, a heater and / or a coil, preferably installed below a floor of said at least one environment.

[0107] According to even another aspect, the present finding concerns an installation method of a heating plant comprising said distributing device.

[0108] In an aspect, said installation method comprises at least the following steps: arranging a heater apparatus; arranging an accumulation apparatus; arranging at least one radiating element operatively connected to an environment to be thermally conditioned; arranging a distributing device according to one or more of the aspects previously introduced; connecting said first inlet to said accumulation apparatus; connecting said first outlet to said heater apparatus; connecting said second inlet to said at least one radiating element; connecting said second outlet to said accumulation apparatus; connecting said third outlet to said at least one radiating element.

[0109] In an aspect, said method comprises, alternatively and mutually exclusively, the following steps: configuring said distributing device in said first configuration, connecting said heater apparatus to said accumulation apparatus and connecting said third inlet to said accumulation apparatus; configuring said distributing device in said second configuration and connecting said third inlet to said heater apparatus.

[0110] Additional characteristics and advantages will result more from the detailed description of multiple preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments of a distributing device of a thermal fluid, of a heating plant comprising said distributing device and of an installation method of a heating plant comprising said distributing device, according to the present finding. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0111] Some embodiments and some aspects of the finding will be described below with reference to the attached figures, provided for illustrative purposes only and therefore non-limiting wherein:

[0112] - figure 1 is a perspective view of a distributing device of a thermal fluid in an exemplary embodiment according to a first configuration according to the present finding;

[0113] - figure 2 is a different perspective view of the distributing device referred to in figure 1;

[0114] - figure 3 represents a frontal plan view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-2;

[0115] - figure 4 represents a rear plan view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-3 with some components hidden for greater clarity;

[0116] - figure 5 represents another rear perspective view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-4 with some components hidden for greater clarity;

[0117] - figure 6 represents a lateral plan view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-5;

[0118] - figure 7 represents an additional rear perspective view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-6 with some components hidden for greater clarity;

[0119] - figure 8 is a sectional view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-7 according to the cutting plan

[0120] VIII-VIII;

[0121] - figure 9 is a sectional view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-7 according to the cutting plan

[0122] IX-IX;

[0123] - figure 10 is a sectional view of the distributing device referred to in figures 1-7 according to the cutting plan

[0124] X-X;

[0125] - figure 11 is a perspective view of the distributing device in an exemplary embodiment according to a second configuration according to the present finding;

[0126] - figure 12 is a sectional view of the distributing device referred to in figure 11 according to the cutting plan XII-XII;

[0127] - figure 13 shows a first embodiment of a heating plant, also subject of the present finding and comprising the distributing device of figures 1-10;

[0128] - figure 14 shows a second embodiment of the heating plant comprising the distributing device of figures 11- 12.

[0129] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0130] 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 finding by means of representations that are not to scale; therefore, parts and components shown in figures related to the object of the finding may relate exclusively to schematic representations.

[0131] With reference to the attached figures it has been overall indicated with reference 1 a distributing device of a fluid, hereafter referred to as device 1 for reasons of descriptive simplicity. In particular, device 1 according to the present finding is a distributing device of a thermal fluid in the context of a heating plant 100. By way of example, but absolutely non-limiting, the thermal fluid may coincide with thermal water.

[0132] As shown in figures 13 and 14, the device 1 is particularly adapted to be installed in the context of a heating plant 100 comprising at least one radiating element R, a heater apparatus H and an accumulation apparatus A. The functions of the at least one radiating element R, the heater apparatus H and the accumulation apparatus A will be better clarified later in the present description.

[0133] For the purpose of a better descriptive clarity, reference will be made to a heating plant 100 comprising a single radiating element R. This reference is to be intended in an example and absolutely non-limiting way, as the device 1 can also be used in heating plants comprising multiple radiating elements R.

[0134] In particular, the radiating element R is configured to be installed within or near an environment E to be thermally conditioned. In other words, the radiating element R is operatively connected to the environment E to change its temperature. More in detail, the radiating element R is configured to allow a heat exchange between the fluid circulating within the heating plant 100 and the environment E to be thermally conditioned. Preferably, the radiating element R is configured to heat the environment E, i.e., to release the heat stored within the fluid to the environment E to which it is operatively connected.

[0135] The heater apparatus H is configured to vary the temperature of the thermal fluid, in particular of the thermal water, circulating within the heating plant 100. In particular, the heater apparatus H is configured to heat the thermal fluid circulating within said heating plant 100.

[0136] The accumulation apparatus A is configured to store the thermal fluid and, as it will become clearer below, ensures a more efficient management of energy resources in addition to optimize the operation of the additional components of the heating plant 100, in particular of the heater apparatus H.

[0137] In the context of the heating plant 100, the distributing device 1 is configured to distribute the thermal fluid circulating between the radiating element R, the heater apparatus H and the accumulation apparatus A.

[0138] As shown in figures 1 and 2, the device 1 comprises a boxed body 2. The boxed body 2 defines a supporting and containing structure for additional components of said device 1 . Specifically, the additional components of the device 1 which will be described below result to be supported by the boxed body 2 and at least partially housed within the boxed body.

[0139] The device 1 comprises a first branch 10, housed in the boxed body 2 and extending between a first inlet 11 and a first outlet 12. Specifically, the first branch 10 is configured to allow a first fluid flow between the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12.

[0140] Preferably, as shown in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12 are positioned in correspondence of two different walls of the boxed body 2. More preferably, the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12 are positioned in correspondence of two opposed walls of the boxed body 2.

[0141] Always preferably, the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12 are the only portions of the first branch 10 which are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12 represent the interfaces of the first branch 10 outwards, that is, toward the rest of the heating plant 100. The first inlet 11 is configured to be put in fluid communication with said accumulation apparatus A for receiving said first fluid flow. In particular, the first fluid flow entering in the first inlet 11 comes from said accumulation apparatus A by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the accumulation apparatus A and the first branch 10.

[0142] The first outlet 12 is configured to be put in fluid communication with said heater apparatus H for sending said first fluid flow. In other words, as shown in figures 13 and 14, said first outlet 12 is configured to be connected to the return pipe of the thermal fluid to the heater apparatus H. Specifically, the first fluid flow outgoing from said first outlet 12 reaches the heater apparatus H by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the first branch 10 with said heater apparatus H.

[0143] The first branch 10 comprises also a filtering element 13, interposed between the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12. This filtering element 13 is configured to filter the first fluid flow circulating within the first branch 10, in particular from the first inlet 11 to the first outlet 12. Preferably, the filtering element 13 comprises a sludge removing filter configured to filter the impurities present in the first fluid flow, which, if not filtered out, could affect the operation of the device 1 and / or the entire heating plant 100.

[0144] As shown in the attached figures, the device 1 comprises a second branch 20, housed in said boxed body 2 and extending between a second inlet 21 and a second outlet 22. In particular, the second branch 20 is configured to allow a second fluid flow between the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22.

[0145] Preferably, as shown in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22 are positioned in correspondence of respective walls, preferably opposite walls, of the boxed body 2. Even more preferably, the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22 are positioned in correspondence of the same walls of the boxed body 2 upon which are present the first inlet 11 and the first outlet 12. 1 n the embodiment shown, the first inlet 11 and the second inlet 21 are positioned on the same wall of the boxed body 2, specifically on the wall opposite with respect to the wall of the boxed body 2 upon which are positioned the first outlet 12 and the second outlet 22.

[0146] Always preferably, the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22 are the only portions of the second branch 20 which are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22 represent the interfaces of the second branch 20 outwards, that is, toward the rest of the heating plant 100.

[0147] The second inlet 21 is configured to be put in fluid communication with the radiating element R for receiving said second fluid flow. In other words, the second inlet 21 is configured to be connected to the return pipe of the thermal fluid from the radiating element R. In particular, the second fluid flow entering the second inlet 21 comes from the radiating element R by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the radiating element R and the second branch 20.

[0148] The second outlet 22 is configured to be put in fluid communication with said accumulation apparatus A for sending said second fluid flow. Specifically, the second fluid flow outgoing from said second outlet 22 reaches the accumulation apparatus A by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the second branch 20 with said accumulation apparatus A. In addition, the device 1 comprises a third branch 30, housed in said boxed body 2 and extending between a third inlet 31 and a third outlet 32. In particular, said third branch 30 is configured to allow a third fluid flow between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32.

[0149] Preferably, as shown in the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32 are positioned in correspondence to respective parts, preferably opposite walls, of the boxed body 2. Even more preferably, the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32 are positioned in correspondence of the same walls of the boxed body on which are positioned the first inlet 11 , the first outlet 12, the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22. In the shown embodiment, the first inlet 11 , the second inlet 21 and the third outlet 32 are positioned on the same wall of the boxed body 2, specifically on the wall opposite with respect to the wall of the boxed body 2 upon which are positioned the first outlet 12, the second outlet 22 and the third inlet 31.

[0150] Always preferably, the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32 are the only portions of the third branch 30 which are housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body. In other words, the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32 represent the interfaces of the third branch 30 outwards, i.e., toward the rest of the heating plant 100.

[0151] As shown in figures 13 and 14, the third inlet 31 is configured to be put in fluid communication with the heater apparatus H or with the accumulation apparatus A for receiving said third fluid flow. In particular, the third fluid flow entering the third inlet 31 comes from the heater apparatus H or the accumulation apparatus A by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the third branch 30 with the heater apparatus H or with the accumulation apparatus A.

[0152] The third outlet 32 is configured to be put in communication with the radiating element R for sending said third fluid flow. In other words, the third outlet 32 is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe of the thermal fluid to the radiating element R. Specifically, the third fluid flow outgoing from the third outlet 32 reaches the radiating element R by means of special pipes suitable for putting in fluid communication the third branch 30 with said radiating element R.

[0153] From the comparison, for example, between figures 1 and 11 it is possible to appreciate that the device 1 is configurable, selectively and in a mutually exclusive manner, in at least one of the following configurations:

[0154] - a first configuration C1 (shown in figures 1-10) wherein said third branch 30 comprises a pump 33, in an operating position interposed between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32, configured to exert on said third fluid flow a pushing action toward the third outlet 32;

[0155] - a second configuration C2 (shown in figures 11-12) wherein said third branch comprises a stub pipe 34 or tubular tract, in said operating position interposed between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32, configured to allow a fluid continuity between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32.

[0156] As evident from the comparison between figures 1-10 and figures 11-12, the pump 33 and the stub pipe 34 are interchangeable with each other depending on the configuration assumed by the device 1. Specifically, when the device 1 assumes the first configuration C1 , the third branch 30 presents the pump 33 in said operating position interposed between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32. On the contrary, when the device 1 assumes said second configuration C2, the third branch 30 presents the stub pipe 34 in the same operating position interposed between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32. Substantially, the installation of the pump 33 determines the assumption of the first configuration C1 by the device 1 and, analogously, the installation of the stub pipe 34 determines the assumption of the second configuration C2. The replacement of the pump 33 with the stub pipe 34 sets the passage of the device 1 from the first configuration C1 to the second configuration C2. Vice versa, the replacement of the stub pipe 34 with the pump 33 sets the passage of the device 1 from the second configuration C2 to the first configuration C1.

[0157] Preferably, as shown in figures 11 and 12, the stub pipe 34 comprises a passive tubular segment suitable for being installed in an intermediate position of the third branch 30 to allow the transit of the third fluid flow between the third inlet 31 and the third outlet 32. Depending on the embodiments, the stub pipe 34 may have the same diameter as the remaining portion of the third branch 30 or, as clearly shown in figure 12, may have a different, preferably larger, diameter than the diameter of the remaining portion of the third branch 30.

[0158] According to what is shown in figure 13, when the device 1 is in the first configuration C1 , the third inlet 31 is configured to be connected to the accumulation apparatus A.

[0159] According to what is shown in figure 14, when the device 1 is in the second configuration C2, the third inlet 31 is configured to be connected to the heater apparatus H. Specifically, the third inlet 31 is configured to be connected to an outlet pipe from the heater apparatus H for receiving the heated thermal fluid.

[0160] Preferably, the device 1 comprises an expansion vessel 40 and an expansion duct 41 . The expansion duct 41 is configured to connect the expansion vessel 40 to at least one among the first branch 10, the second branch 20 and the third branch 30. In the shown embodiment, the expansion vessel 40 is connected only to the first branch 10 by means of the expansion duct 41. Specifically, the expansion duct 41 is preferably connected to the first branch 10 in substantial correspondence of the first outlet 12.

[0161] In particular, the expansion vessel 40 is configured to compensate for the volumetric expansions of said thermal fluid due to changes of temperature of the same fluid. It is in fact known that the volume occupied by a fluid varies according to its inner temperature. In the absence of safety devices such as the expansion vessel 40, as the temperature of the circulating thermal fluid increases, the pressure in the heating plant 100 could increase to the point of being potentially damaging for the integrity of the components installed therein.

[0162] Preferably, the device 1 comprises a loading branch 50 extending between a loading inlet 51 and at least one among the first branch 10, the second branch 20 and the third branch 30. In the shown embodiment, the loading branch 50 extends between the loading inlet 51 and said first branch 10, more preferably in a position interposed between the filtering element 13 and the first outlet 12, i.e., in a point of the first branch 10 downstream of the filtering element 13.

[0163] It should be noted that, in the present description, the expressions "downstream” and "upstream” are intended as typically used in the hydraulic field, that is, referred to the direction of the fluid flow in the normal use of the device 1 in the context of the heating plant 100. In that setting, the fluid flow goes from upstream to downstream. As shown in figures 13 and 14, the loading inlet 51 is configured to be connected to a fluid source S for supplying a determined amount of thermal fluid in said heating plant 100. Preferably, the fluid source S coincides with the water network, which is configured for supplying thermal water in the heating plant 100 through the loading inlet 51 of the device 1. Preferably, the loading inlet 51 is positioned in correspondence of a wall of the boxed body 2. More preferably, the loading inlet 51 represents the only portion of the loading branch 50 housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body 2. Specifically, the loading inlet 51 represents the interface of the loading branch 50 outwards of the device 1, particularly toward the fluid source. As clearly shown by figure 2, the loading inlet 51 is positioned on the same wall of the boxed body 2 upon which are positioned the first outlet 12, the second outlet 22 and the third inlet 31.

[0164] Preferably, the loading branch 50 comprises a filter 52 configured to filter the fluid entering from the loading inlet 51. In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the filter 52 is a Y filter configured to filter the impurities of the fluid entering through the loading inlet 51 and circulating in the loading branch 50.

[0165] Always preferably, the loading branch 50 comprises an anti-pollution organ 53. The anti-pollution organ 53 is positioned downstream of the filter 52 and is configured to prevent a reverse fluid flow to the loading inlet 51 , i.e. in the opposite direction with respect to the one of the fluid loaded by the fluid source S through the loading inlet 51 . In particular, the anti-pollution organ 53 is configured to prevent that the thermal fluid circulating within the heating plant pollutes the fluid source S (i.e., the water network).

[0166] Preferably, as exemplarily shown in the attached figures, the anti-pollution organ 53 is a disconnector.

[0167] The anti-pollution organ can be a non-return valve or a so-called "backflow preventer” organ, typically according to the legislation of the country wherein it is installed the heating plant 100 comprising the device 1.

[0168] In addition, the loading branch 50 is preferably provided with a faucet, operatively connected to the loading inlet 51 . The faucet is selectively openable to allow the supply of thermal fluid flow from the fluid source S through the loading inlet 51. Specifically, the faucet is selectively openable to allow the filling of the heating plant 100 with the thermal fluid. Depending on the embodiment, the thermal fluid comprises domestic water, possibly enriched with chemical additives, such as an antifreeze composition.

[0169] Preferably, the device 1 comprises an unloading branch 60 ending in an unloading outlet 61. As will become clearer from the following description, the unloading outlet 61 is configured to allow an outflow of thermal fluid from the device 1 .

[0170] Preferably, the unloading outlet 61 is positioned in correspondence of a wall of the boxed body 2. More preferably, the unloading outlet 61 represents the only portion of the unloading branch 60 housed, at least partially, outside the boxed body 2. Specifically, the unloading outlet 61 represents the interface of the unloading branch 60 to the outside of the device 1, for example toward the sewerage network. As evident from figure 2, the unloading outlet 61 is positioned on the same wall of the boxed body 2 on which are positioned the first outlet 12, the second outlet 22, the third inlet 31 and the loading inlet 51.

[0171] Always preferably, the device 1 comprises a safety valve 62. In particular, the unloading branch 60 extends between the unloading outlet 61 and the safety valve 62. Also, the safety valve 62 is connected to at least one among the first branch 10, the second branch 20 and the third branch 30 by means of a first unloading duct 63. In the shown embodiment, the first unloading duct 63 is configured to connect said safety valve 62 to the first branch 10, more preferably in a position downstream of the filtering element 13. The safety valve 62 is a pressure-controlled valve, configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value within one among the first branch 10, the second branch 20 and the third branch 30 is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when this pressure value is lower than said threshold.

[0172] As shown from the combined view 3, 7 and 8, the device 1 comprises preferably a second unloading duct 64, extending between the unloading branch 60 and the loading branch 50 in correspondence of the anti-pollution organ 53.

[0173] Specifically, the second unloading duct 64 is configured to send toward the unloading outlet 61 the reverse flow of thermal fluid not intercepted by the anti-pollution organ 53. In other words, the second unloading duct 64 is configured to fix a malfunction of the anti-pollution organ 53 on the loading branch 50, i.e. to prevent that a reverse flow can flow into the loading branch 50 heading towards the loading inlet 51 .

[0174] Preferably, as shown in figure 8, the filtering element 13 comprises a draining valve 14, selectively openable to allow a draining of the thermal fluid present in an internal chamber 13A of the same filtering element 13. In detail, the draining valve 14 is configured to empty the internal chamber 13A, for example, to allow to perform maintenance operations of the filtering element 13.

[0175] Always preferably, the device 1 comprises a third unloading duct 65. As evident from figure 8, the third unloading duct 65 extends between the draining valve 14 and the second unloading duct 64 or, alternatively, said unloading branch 60. As shown also in figure 7, in the shown embodiment, the third unloading duct 65 extends between the draining valve 14 and the second unloading duct 64. Specifically, the third unloading duct 65 is configured to send toward the unloading outlet 61 the thermal fluid drained by the internal chamber 13A of the filtering element through the draining valve 14.

[0176] According to what is shown for example in figure 5, the device 1 preferably comprises a by-pass valve 23 and a by-pass duct 24. The by-pass duct 24 extends from the third branch 30, preferably in a position between the third outlet 32 and the pump 33 or the stub pipe 34 (depending on whether the device 1 is in the first configuration C1 or the second configuration C2), to the second branch 20. The by-pass valve 23 is active on the by-pass duct 24 for allowing a fluid communication direct from the third branch 30 to the second branch 20.

[0177] Preferably, as in the shown embodiment, the by-pass valve 23 is positioned on the second branch 20 and is interposed between the second inlet 21 and the second outlet 22, while the by-pass duct 23 extends between the by-pass valve 23 and the third branch 30.

[0178] Preferably, the by-pass valve 23 is a pressure-controlled valve configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value of the third fluid flow in the third branch 30 is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when said pressure value is lower than said threshold. Therefore, when the by-pass valve 23 is at least partially open, the by-pass duct 24 is configured to deviate to the second branch 20 at least part of the third fluid flow circulating in the third branch 30 toward the third outlet 32. Advantageously, the combined presence of the by-pass valve 23 and the by-pass duct 24 allows to manage the pressure difference in correspondence of the radiating element R, in particular to prevent this pressure difference from reaching too high levels. In fact, should the pressure difference in correspondence of the radiating element R grow above the threshold value, the bypass valve 23 would detect this pressure increase and open the by-pass duct 24. By doing so, are prevented stress situations to which the pump 33 and / or other circulating elements, for example connected to the heater apparatus H, are subjected.

[0179] Preferably, the device 1 comprises a manometer 70, or an equivalent pressure control device, configured to detect a pressure value in a position of the heating plant 100. Said manometer 70 is particularly useful during loading operations of the thermal fluid within the heating plant 100, for example through said loading branch 50, as it allows to keep monitored the increase of the pressure value during loading operations.

[0180] Preferably, as shown in figure 3 and in the sections of figures 8-10, the device 1 comprises at least one of the following elements:

[0181] - a first shut-off valve 15, preferably integrated into the filtering element 13, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the first fluid flow entering from the first inlet 11 ;

[0182] - a second shut-off valve 16, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of or upstream of the first outlet 12, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the first fluid flow outgoing from said first outlet 12;

[0183] - a third shut-off valve 25, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of the second inlet 21 , configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the second fluid flow entering from said second inlet 21;

[0184] - a fourth shut-off valve 26, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said second outlet 22, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the second fluid flow outgoing from said second outlet 22;

[0185] - a fifth shut-off valve 35, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of the third inlet 31, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the third fluid flow entering from said third inlet 31 ;

[0186] - a sixth shut-off valve 36, preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of the third outlet 32, configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt the third fluid flow outgoing from said third outlet 32.

[0187] The present finding concerns also a heating plant 100, hereinafter indicated also as plant 100 for reasons of expository simplicity and schematically shown in figures 13 and 14 in two different embodiments. Specifically, that heating plant is configured to thermally condition, preferably heat, at least one environment E, such as for example one or more rooms of a building for residential and / or commercial purposes.

[0188] According to what is shown in figures 13 and 14, the plant 100 comprises:

[0189] - a heater apparatus H configured to heat a fluid circulating within said plant 100;

[0190] - at least one radiating element R operatively connected the environment E for a heat exchange between the fluid circulating in the plant 100 and the environment E;

[0191] - an accumulation apparatus A configured to store within itself a determined amount of said fluid circulating within the plant 100;

[0192] - the device 1 previously described.

[0193] In both embodiments of figures 13 and 14, the plant 100 presents the following connections between the inlets and outlets of the device 1 and the additional components of said plant:

[0194] - the first inlet 11 is connected to the accumulation apparatus A;

[0195] - the first outlet 12 is connected to the heater apparatus H;

[0196] - the second inlet 21 is connected to the radiating element R; - the second outlet 22 is connected to the accumulation apparatus A;

[0197] - the third outlet 32 is connected to the radiating element R.

[0198] It should be noted that the connection of the inlets / outlets of the device 1 with the remaining components of the plant 100 is realized with ducts suitable for allowing the passage of the thermal fluid between the device 1 and the corresponding component of the plant 100.

[0199] According to what is shown in figure 13, when the device 1 is in the first configuration C1 , i.e. when the third branch 30 comprises the pump 33, the heater apparatus H is connected to the accumulation apparatus A and the third inlet is connected to the accumulation apparatus A.

[0200] According to what is shown in figure 14, when the device 1 is in the second configuration C2, that is when the third branch 30 comprises the stub pipe 34, the third inlet 31 is connected to the heater apparatus H.

[0201] In an embodiment, the heater apparatus H comprises a heat pump of known type and therefore not described in detail in the present document.

[0202] In an alternative embodiment, the heater apparatus H comprises a boiler of known type and therefore not described in detail in the present document. This boiler is preferably operatively associated to a circulation pump.

[0203] Preferably, the accumulation apparatus A comprises an inertial accumulation, also called inertial puffer in the technical field, of known type and therefore not described in detail in the present document. Such inertial accumulation consists, in fact, of a storage apparatus, or tank, containing the thermal fluid circulating within the plant 100. Specifically, the inertial accumulation is characterized by high thermal insulation properties that allow to store the thermal fluid heated by the heater apparatus H for long periods of time so that it is available when needed. Advantageously, the presence of the accumulation apparatus A allows to reduce the on-and-off cycles of the heater apparatus H, thus increasing the performance of the plant 100 and contextually lengthening the life cycle of the heater apparatus itself.

[0204] Also, the inertial accumulation presents the advantage of acting as a stratifier of the thermal fluid, that is, it separates the components of the stored thermal fluid according to temperature, dividing the cold component of the thermal fluid from the hot component of the thermal fluid.

[0205] Preferably, the accumulation apparatus A comprises a plurality of interfaces that allow the connection of multiple ducts. In the embodiment shown in figures 13 and 14, the accumulation apparatus A comprises at least four interfaces that allow the connection of at least four pipes connected, respectively, to other components of the plant 100.

[0206] The radiating element R comprises at least one among a radiator, a convector heater, a heater and / or a coil, preferably installed below a floor of said at least one environment. The choice of the most appropriate radiating element, or radiating elements, depends on the embodiment of the plant and related field of application.

[0207] It is now described the working principle of the plant 100 in the two different embodiments shown in figures 13 and 14. In the first embodiment of figure 13, the thermal fluid heated in the heating plant H is sent to the accumulation apparatus A where it is stored for a future use. From the accumulation apparatus A, the thermal fluid can follow two different paths, typically depending on the temperature of the fluid itself.

[0208] A part of the thermal fluid stored in the accumulation apparatus A, preferably the cold component, is sent to the first inlet 11 of the device 1. This portion of the fluid coincides with the first fluid flow flowing into the first branch 10, undergoing a filtration by the filtering element 13. Subsequently, the first fluid flow exits from the second opening 12 and reaches, through an appropriate duct, the heater apparatus H, which will again provide to heat such fluid flow. In fact, the fluid path just described, which closes on the heater apparatus H, coincides with the primary circuit of the plant 100 of figure 13. In that primary circuit, the fluid circulates under the action of the heater apparatus, which, as anticipated, may be a heat pump or a boiler provided with a circulation pump of the fluid.

[0209] The remaining part of the thermal fluid stored in the accumulation apparatus A, preferably the hot component, is sent to the third inlet 31 of the device 1 . The sending of this fluid flow is handled by the pump 33, which, in the first configuration C1 of the device 1, is installed in correspondence of the third branch 30. Therefore, the fluid flow sent coincides with the third fluid flow flowing, under the action of the pump 33, in the third branch 30 from the third inlet 31 to the third outlet 32. Subsequently, the third fluid flow exits from the third outlet 32 and reaches the radiating element R, where the fluid releases heat to the environment E. Afterwards, the fluid flow re-enters in the device 1 through the second inlet 21 , crosses the second branch 20, exits from the second opening 22 and then reaches again the accumulation apparatus A. This fluid path coincides with the secondary circuit of the plant 100 of figure 13, which closes on the accumulation apparatus A. In the secondary circuit, the fluid circulates under the action of the pump 33 installed on the third branch 30 when the device 1 is in the first configuration C1.

[0210] In the second embodiment of figure 14, the thermal fluid heated in the heating plant H is directly sent to the third inlet 31 of the device 1. It should be noted that in the second embodiment of the plant 100, the device 1 is in the second configuration C2, i.e. presents the stub pipe 34 on the third branch 30. Therefore, the only device that allows the fluid circulation in plant 100 is represented by the heating plant H which, as anticipated, may be a heat pump or a boiler provided with a circulation pump of the fluid.

[0211] The fluid entered in the third inlet 31 runs through the third branch 30, crossing the stub pipe 34, up to the third outlet 32. Subsequently, the fluid exits from the device 1 through the third outlet 32 and reaches the radiating element R, where the fluid releases heat to the environment E. Afterwards, the fluid flow falls within the device 1 through the second inlet 21 , crosses the second branch 20, exits from the second inlet 22 and then reaches the accumulation apparatus A, where it is stored. Next, the fluid leaves the accumulation apparatus A and is sent to the first inlet 11 of the device 1. The fluid then travels through the first branch 10, also undergoing a filtration by the filtering element 13 before exiting from the second inlet 12 and reaching, through a special pipe, the heater apparatus H, which will again provide to heat that fluid flow. In light of the above, in the second embodiment of figure 14, the plant 100 consists of a single circuit, wherein the fluid circulates only under the action of the pump of the heater apparatus H. The present description also deals with an installation method of the heating plant 100 comprising the device 1. This installation method comprises at least the following steps: arranging the heater apparatus H; arranging the accumulation apparatus A; arranging at least one radiating element R operatively connected to an environment E to be thermally conditioned; arranging the device 1 previously described; connecting the first inlet 11 to the accumulation apparatus A; connecting the first outlet 12 to the heater apparatus H; connecting the second inlet 21 to the radiating element R; connecting the second outlet 22 to the accumulation apparatus A; connecting the third outlet 32 to the radiating element R.

[0212] Also, said installation method comprises, alternatively and mutually exclusive, the following steps: configuring the device 1 in the first configuration C1, connecting the heater apparatus H to the accumulation apparatus A and connecting the third inlet 31 to the accumulation apparatus A; configuring the device 1 in the second configuration C2 and connecting the third inlet 31 to the heater apparatus H.

[0213] The so conceived finding is susceptible to numerous modifications and variants, all within the field of the inventive concept, and the mentioned components are replaceable by other technically equivalent elements.

[0214] ADVANTAGES OF THE FINDING

[0215] The finding involves significant technical effects and achieves important advantages. Firstly, as it clearly appears from the above-mentioned description, the finding allows to overcome the drawbacks of the background art.

[0216] Firstly, the device 1 according to the present finding allows to greatly simplify the procedures for the implementation of the heating plant wherein it is adopted.

[0217] An advantage related to device 1 according to the present finding is to condense, in a single apparatus, most of the functional elements typically installed, in a distributed way, within a traditional distributing system of a heating plant. Such a device allows to centralize in a single point of the heating plant all the functions typically spatially distributed in a traditional distributing system.

[0218] Also, the device 1 allows to simplify and speed up considerably the design operations and subsequent installation of the heating plant with respect to the known distributing systems. In fact, the possibility of arranging the device 1 greatly simplifies the design task, which is reduced to the choice of the best positioning of the components of the plant and the arrangement of the connections between the device 1 and the remaining components of the heating plant.

[0219] In addition, the device 1 considerably simplifies the installation process of the heating plant. Specifically, the limited number of interfaces allows to minimize the installation errors due to a wrong positioning of some components and / or to the wrong connection of some ducts. The concentration of functional elements in a single body allows to provide a device 1 that is globally certified and easy to install.

[0220] Another advantage connected to the device 1 according to the present finding is that it has a particularly compact structure that facilitates a convenient installation in almost any typology of building.

[0221] A further advantage of the device 1 concerns the ease of maintenance. In fact, by concentrating in a single body all the functional elements of a traditional distributing system, the device 1 makes easily accessible all the components spatially distributed in a traditional distributing system and therefore facilitates the maintenance operations of the heating plant wherein it is installed.

[0222] In addition, the device 1 results extremely flexible. In particular, the device 1 is capable of adapting, with simplicity and immediacy, to different typologies of heating plants. As demonstrated in the preceding description, the device 1 does not require a redesign, other than a modest redesign, of the device 1 and of the connections to the heater apparatus, to the accumulation apparatus and to the radiating elements in order to adapt to a different typology of heating plant (see the modifications required to switch from the plant of figure 13 to the plant of figure 14 or vice versa).

[0223] The device 1 according to the present finding thus results to be a substantially universal distributing device, i.e., usable in heating plants also considerably different among each other.

[0224] In addition, the device 1 according to the present finding allows to easily provide for the loading of the thermal fluid within the heating plant. Known distributing systems involve loading points located within the heating plant. Typically, said loading points are not easily accessible and / or are not served by the water network. Conversely, the device 1 allows to arrange a fluid loading point easily reachable and connectable to a source, as for example the water network. Advantageously, the loading branch 50 of the device 1 is also provided with additional safety elements, such as the filter 52 and the anti-pollution organ 53, which enable a fully automated loading of a thermal fluid under conditions that ensure an optimal operation of the heating plant.

[0225] Also, the device 1 according to the present finding allows an automated unloading of the thermal fluid. In particular, the connection of the unloading outlet 61 to the sewage network allows the device 1 to manage in complete autonomy the discharge of the thermal fluid from the heating plant. The assembly composed by the unloading outlet 61 , the unloading branch 60, by the safety valve 62 and by the related unloading ducts 63, 64, 65 allows to have an unloading system capable of simultaneously managing: malfunction risks due to overpressures within the heating plant; return flows on the loading branch due to malfunctioning of the anti-pollution organ 53 of the loading branch 50; draining of the filtering element 13.

[0226] In light of the above, in addition to the inherent distributing functions of the thermal fluid, the device 1 also integrates the loading (i.e., supplying) and unloading (i.e., draining) functions of the thermal fluid into and from the related heating plant.

[0227] The advantages of the device 1 also propagate to the heating plant wherein said distributing device is installed. In particular, the heating plant 100 in accordance with the present finding presents the following advantages with respect to heating plants used in buildings nowadays: simplified design; simplified installation; - fast and immediate maintenance operations; possibility of modifications, adaptations and readjustments with a modest effort; convenience of loading of the thermal fluid; automation of drains of the thermal fluid.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Fluid distributing device (1), in particular of thermal water, particularly adapted to be installed in the context of a heating plant (100) comprising at least one radiating element (R), one heater apparatus (H) and one accumulation apparatus (A), said device (1) comprising:- a boxed body (2) defining a supporting and containing structure for further components of said device (1);- a first branch (10), housed in said boxed body (2) and extending between a first inlet (11) and a first outlet (12), said first branch (10) being configured to allow a first fluid flow between said first inlet (11) and said first outlet (12), said first inlet (11) being configured to be put in fluid communication with said accumulation apparatus (A) for receiving said first fluid flow, said first outlet (12) being configured to be put in communication with said heater apparatus (H) for sending said first fluid flow; said first branch (10) comprising also a filtering element (13), interposed between said first inlet (11) and said first outlet (12), configured to filter said first fluid flow;- a second branch (20), housed in said boxed body (2) and extending between a second inlet (21) and a second outlet (22), said second branch (20) being configured to allow a second fluid flow between said second inlet (21) and said second outlet (22), said second inlet (21) being configured to be put in fluid communication with said at least one radiating element (R) for receiving said second fluid flow, said second outlet (22) being configured to be put in communication with said accumulation apparatus (A) for sending said second fluid flow;- a third branch (30), housed in said boxed body (2) and extending between a third inlet (31) and a third outlet (32), said third branch (30) being configured to allow a third fluid flow between said third inlet (31) and said third outlet (32), said third inlet (31) being configured to be put in fluid communication with said heater apparatus (H) or said accumulation apparatus (A) for receiving said third fluid flow, said third outlet (32) being configured to be put in communication with said at least one radiating element (R) for sending said third fluid flow; said device (1) being configurable, selectively and in a mutually exclusive manner, in at least one of the following configurations:- a first configuration (C1) wherein said third branch (30) comprises a pump (33), in an operating position interposed between said third inlet (31) and said third outlet (32), configured to exert on said third fluid flow a pushing action toward said third outlet (32);- a second configuration (C2) wherein said third branch (30) comprises a stub pipe (34) or tubular tract, in said operating position interposed between said third inlet (31) and said third outlet (32), configured to allow a fluid continuity between said third inlet (31) and said third outlet (32).

2. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein, when said device (1) is in said first configuration (C1), said third inlet (31) is configured to be connected to said accumulation apparatus (A); and / or wherein, when said device (1) is in said second configuration (C2), said third inlet (31) is configured to be connected to said heater apparatus (H); and / or wherein said filtering device (13) is a sludge removing filter.

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising an expansion vessel (40) and an expansion duct (41), suitable for connecting said expansion vessel (40) to at least one between said first branch (10), said secondbranch (20) and said third branch (30); said expansion vessel (40) being configured to compensate for volumetric expansions of said fluid due to temperature changes of the fluid itself; and / or wherein said expansion duct (41) is connected to said first branch (10), preferably substantially in correspondence of said first outlet (12).

4. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a loading branch (50) extending between a loading inlet (51) and at least one between said first branch (10), said second branch (20) and said third branch (30), said loading branch (50) extending preferably between said loading inlet (51) and said first branch (10), more preferably in a position interposed between said filtering element (13) and said first outlet (12); and / or wherein said loading inlet (51) is configured to be connected to a fluid source (S), preferably a water network, for supplying said fluid in said heating plant (100).

5. Device (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein said loading branch (50) comprises a filter (52) configured to filter the fluid entering said loading inlet (51); and / or wherein said loading branch (50) comprises an anti-pollution organ (53), preferably a disconnector, placed downstream of said filter (52) and configured to prevent a reverse flow of fluid toward said loading inlet (51); and / or wherein said loading branch (50) is provided with a faucet, operatively connected to said loading inlet (51 ) and openable in a selective manner for allowing an inlet of said fluid flow from said source (S) through said loading inlet (51); and / or wherein said device (1) comprises a manometer (70), or an equivalent pressure control device, configured to detect a pressure value of the fluid in a position of the heating plant (100).

6. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising an unloading branch (60) ending in an unloading outlet (61), said unloading outlet (61) being configured for an outflow of fluid from said device (1); and / or wherein said device (1) comprises a safety valve (62), said unloading branch (60) extending between said safety valve (62) and said unloading outlet (61), said safety valve (62) being also connected to at least one among said first branch (10), said second branch (20) and said third branch (30) by means of a first unloading duct (63), said safety valve (62) being a pressure-controlled valve, configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value within one among said first branch (10), said second branch (20) and said third branch (30) is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when said pressure value is lower than said threshold.

7. Device (1) according to claim 5 and claim 6 comprising a second unloading duct (64) extending between said unloading branch (60) and said loading branch (50) in correspondence of said anti-pollution organ (53), said second unloading duct (64) being configured to send to said unloading outlet (61) said reverse fluid flow not intercepted by said anti-pollution organ (53).

8. Device (1) according to claim 7, wherein said filtering element (13) comprises a draining valve (14), selectively openable for allowing a drainage of fluid present in an internal chamber (13A) of said filtering element (13); and / or wherein said device (1) comprises a third unloading duct (65) extending between said draining valve (14) and said second unloading duct (64) or said unloading branch (60), said third unloading duct (65) being configured to send to said unloading outlet (61) the fluid drained through said draining valve (14).

9. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a by-pass duct (24), extending between said second branch (20) and said third branch (30), preferably in a position between said third outlet (32) and said pump (33) or said stub pipe (34), and a by-pass valve (23), operatively active on said by-pass duct (24) to allow a fluid communication from said third branch (30) to said second branch (20); said by-pass valve (23) being a pressure-controlled valve configured to open, at least partially, when a pressure value of the third fluid flow in said third branch (30) is higher than a determined threshold and to remain closed when said pressure value is lower than said threshold; and wherein, when said by-pass valve (23) is at least partially open, said by-pass duct (24) is configured to send at least part of said third fluid flow circulating toward said third outlet (32) to said second branch (20).

10. Device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one of the following elements:- a first shut-off valve (15), preferably integrated in said filtering element (13), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said first fluid flow entering from said first inlet (11);- a second shut-off valve (16), preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of or upstream of said first outlet (12), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said first fluid flow outgoing from said first outlet (12);- a third shut-off valve (25), preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said second inlet (21), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said second fluid flow entering from said second inlet (21);- a fourth shut-off valve (26), preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said second outlet (22), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said second fluid flow outgoing from said second outlet (22);- a fifth shut-off valve (35), preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said third inlet (31), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said third fluid flow entering from said third inlet (31);- a sixth shut-off valve (36), preferably positioned substantially in correspondence of said third outlet (32), configured to be selectively closed so as to interrupt said third fluid flow outgoing from said third outlet (32).

11. Heating plant (100) for thermally conditioning at least one environment (E) and comprising:- a heater apparatus (H) configured to heat a fluid circulating within said plant (100);- at least one radiating element (R) operatively connected to said at least one environment (E) for a heat exchange between said fluid and said at least one environment (E);- an accumulation apparatus (A) configured to store within itself a determined amount of said fluid circulating within the plant (100);- a distributing device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; and wherein:- said first inlet (11) is connected to said accumulation apparatus (A);- said first outlet (12) is connected to said heater apparatus (H);- said second inlet (21) is connected to said at least one radiating element (R);- said second outlet (22) is connected to said accumulation apparatus (A);- said third outlet (32) is connected to said at least one radiating element (R);and wherein, when said device (1) is in said first configuration (C1 ), said heater apparatus (H) is connected to said accumulation apparatus (A) and said third inlet (31) is connected to said accumulation apparatus (A); and wherein, when said device (1 ) is in said second configuration (C2), said third inlet (31) is connected to said heater apparatus (H).

12. Plant (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein said heating apparatus (H) is a heat pump or a boiler operatively associated to a circulation pump; and / or wherein said accumulation apparatus (A) comprises an inertial accumulation or inertial puffer; and / or wherein said radiating element (R) comprises at least one among a radiator, a convector heater, a heater and / or a coil, preferably installed below a floor of said at least one environment (E).

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