Dispensing device, in particular for beverages and water distributing device, in particular faucet

Abstract

Dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a faucet (100) for water dispensing; the dispensing device for beverages (108) comprising: - a supporting body (108b); - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein: - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190); - said supporting body (108b) comprises a water supplying inlet (122) configured to receive water from a supplying duct (107); - said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use water from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to selectively allow or prevent the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

Description

[0001] Dispensing device, in particular for beverages and water distributing device, in particular faucet’

[0002] Field of the art

[0003] The present disclosure refers to the field of dispensing devices from capsules, and in particular concerns a dispensing device for beverages, for example extracted from capsules, preferably destined to be coupled to a faucet, in particular to a domestic faucet.

[0004] Background art

[0005] Coffee is a beverage widespread since a very long time, and most likely dating back to the Middle Ages. Currently coffee, intended as beverage, is produced using kettles such as of Moka type, which use ground coffee beans.

[0006] Furthermore, coffee is produced by means of coffee machines, once almost exclusively for professional applications and, in recent times, also widespread for domestic applications.

[0007] These coffee machines comprise a body which is provided with a kettle (typically electrically powered) and a support for connection to a removable group. The removable group, which is provided with an operative arm and a collection cup, is in use filled with ground coffee beans. Water and / or steam are supplied into the collection cup by the kettle through an adjustable valve. The removable group dispenses coffee into the coffee cup, placed underneath it.

[0008] An example of such a coffee machine is described in WO2011 / 079874 A1 ; in this document it is described that the removable group engages the connection support by means of a bayonet-type connection.

[0009] Recently, coffee machines have also become popular, mainly for domestic use, which are supplied with capsules; capsules contain ground coffee beans, and are pierced in various ways so that it is possible to introduce hot water, and to extract the liquid coffee.

[0010] Capsules, originally realized for coffee, are often used to distribute other types of beverages such as tea or herbal teas.

[0011] The above-mentioned capsules are also used in some types of faucets that are configured to dispense beverages. An example of this type of faucet is described in WO 2015 / 002950, wherein a hot water tank is coupled with a dispensing unit through a beverage water supply line. The flow of the water is controlled through a solenoid valve. In accordance with the description on page 9 of said document, when the dispensing unit has been opened since the last dispensing, a compatible capsule is arranged in the unit and the unit has been appropriately closed, an electronic control unit transmits an opening command to the solenoid valve.

[0012] For an optimal dispensing of a beverage the water with which the beverage is prepared requires determined characteristics. For example, excessively high temperatures can lead to a burnt taste, excessively low temperatures can determine a non-optimal extraction of the aromas from the granules or powder contained in the capsule. With specific regard to the coffee, too low dispensing pressures can lead to a dispensing of a too liquid coffee. Too high pressures, on the other hand, can determine a breakage of some components, including the capsule itself. Nevertheless, too high temperatures can interfere with the materials of the capsule, and can therefore represent a danger.

[0013] Summary

[0014] In order to provide an optimal beverage dispensing and to prevent dangerous operative conditions, the Applicant has realized first of all a dispensing device (108), and a device for dispensing liquids, in particular a faucet (100), which integrates such dispensing device (108) which allow to select whether or not to provide water to a container for dispensing beverages (190) in accordance with determined characteristics of the water.

[0015] The most important characteristics of the object of the present disclosure are described in the following aspects, which may be combined with each other, with portions of the detailed description and / or of the claims.

[0016] Dispensing device for beverages with flow control element

[0017] In accordance with a first independent aspect, it is herein described a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a faucet (100) for water dispensing; the beverage dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0018] - a supporting body (108b);

[0019] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0020] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0021] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a water supplying inlet (122) configured to receive water from a supplying duct (107);

[0022] - said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use water from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

[0023] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supporting body (108b) is configured to be coupled to, or to be an integral part of, a body (103) of a faucet (100) for water dispensing.

[0024] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively and automatically the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

[0025] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supplying duct (107) is a supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100) and / or said distributing body (108a) is solidly connected to said supporting body (108b) or is movably or removably mounted on said supporting body (108b).

[0026] According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing body (108a) is translatably and / or rotatably mounted on said supporting body (108b).

[0027] According to another non-limiting aspect, said at least one first outlet (401) is configured to supply water to said container for dispensing beverages (190) when, preferably only when, retained and / or contained by, or in, said supporting body (108b) and / or said distributing body (108a).

[0028] According to another non-limiting aspect, at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain removably, optionally operatively removably, at least part of said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or to be removably coupled to said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0029] According to another non-limiting aspect, said container for dispensing beverages (190) is consumable and / or refillable.

[0030] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing portion (109) is configured to allow a dispensing of said beverage in a container (800) destined to allow the ingestion of the beverage by a user.

[0031] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing portion (109) has a variable extension for adapting to a proximity and / or size of said container (800) and optionally is configurable in a first extension configuration, preferably in use arranged at a first distance from said container (800), and in a second extension configuration, preferably in use arranged at a second distance from said container (800).

[0032] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second distance is greater than said first distance. According to another non-limiting aspect, said container is an final container destined to allow the ingestion of the beverage by a user.

[0033] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is configured to open or close the first outlet (401) respectively to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0034] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively, preferably automatically, the water supply to said supporting body (108b) and / or toward said distributing body (108a) according to at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0035] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) comprises a second outlet (402).

[0036] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) is connected to said at least one first inlet.

[0037] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) is connected with a discharge duct (199).

[0038] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way, and preferably automatic, with respect to said second outlet (402), to dispense said water on said first outlet (401) or alternatively on said second outlet (402) according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0039] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative, and preferably automatic, way with respect to said second outlet (402), to selectively allow or prevent the water supply to said container for dispensing beverages (190), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0040] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0041] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to dispense said water on said first outlet (401) and at the same time prevent a dispensing of said water on said second outlet (402), or to dispense said water on said second outlet (402) and at the same time prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet (401), in an automatic way according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0042] According to another non-limiting aspect, the at least one characteristic of said water is at least a temperature and / or a pressure.

[0043] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is preferably of one-way type.

[0044] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is configured to prevent a reflux of water from said first outlet (401) and / or from said second outlet (402) toward said inlet. According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close automatically said first outlet (401), respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet (401) according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0045] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element is a passive control element, and / or comprises a thermostatic valve, preferably a valve with shape memory actuator or a valve with wax or fluid or gas actuator.

[0046] According to another non-limiting aspect, said thermostatic valve, preferably said shape memory actuator or wax or fluid or gas actuator, is configured to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet

[0047] (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet

[0048] (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0049] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is an active control element, preferably an electronically controlled one.

[0050] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is operatively connected with, optionally comprises, at least one sensor (405) configured to detect said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

[0051] According to another non-limiting aspect, said sensor (405) is an electronic sensor.

[0052] According to another non-limiting aspect, said sensor is operatively coupled to, optionally arranged on or in, said supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100) or said water supplying inlet (122) or said inlet of said flow control element (400).

[0053] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to receive a signal, preferably an electronic signal, from said sensor (405).

[0054] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401 ), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said signal.

[0055] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is operatively connected with, or comprises, a data processing unit (404) configured at least to receive said signal from said sensor (405).

[0056] According to another non-limiting aspect, said data processing unit (404) comprises a control output upon which a control signal is transmitted determining, in use, a movement of a movable element of said flow control element (400) to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401 ) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401).

[0057] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured:

[0058] - to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water, or of said liquid, crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water, or of said liquid, does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first.

[0059] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured:

[0060] - to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401 ) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1 ) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross through again said predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0061] According to another non-limiting aspect, said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) is a switching threshold determined as a function of a preparation of a beverage, and / or is settable by a user.

[0062] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100), preferably through at least one among a storage tank (412), a heater, a pump (410), a one-way valve (411) and a control valve (408).

[0063] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) and / or said discharge duct (199) is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct of said faucet (100).

[0064] According to another non-limiting aspect, said closed loop allows to realize an at least partial recirculation of the water present in the supplying duct (107).

[0065] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) has:

[0066] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said water flow from said water supplying inlet (122), within said container for dispensing beverages (190), and toward said dispensing portion (109);

[0067] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0068] According to another non-limiting aspect, in said assembled operative configuration, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) are aligned along a predefined coupling axis. According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing body (108a) is configured to be removably connected to said supporting body (108b) by means of a translatory coupling, or by means of a rotatory coupling, or by means of a bayonet coupling and / or by means of a roto-translatory coupling.

[0069] According to another non-limiting aspect, said roto-translatory coupling comprises:

[0070] - a substantially translatory movement axial along a coupling axis (Z) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), and

[0071] - a substantially rotatory movement (A) of said distributing body (108a) with respect to said supporting body (108b).

[0072] According to another non-limiting aspect, said substantially rotatory movement is axial to said coupling axis (Z).

[0073] According to another non-limiting aspect, in use, preferably when said dispensing device (108) is in said assembled operative configuration, said liquid, optionally said water, flows within said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) and / or within said housing volume, along a predefined flow axis.

[0074] According to another non-limiting aspect, said coupling axis (Z) is parallel to, optionally coinciding with, said flow axis, preferably when the dispensing device (108) is in said assembled operative configuration.

[0075] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to identify, preferably automatically, a coupling between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0076] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to identify, optionally automatically, the existence of said assembled operative configuration, and / or the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0077] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to allow an opening of said first outlet (401) only when there is said coupling between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), preferably said assembled operative configuration and / or when there is the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0078] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises a first temperature regulator (900).

[0079] According to another non-limiting aspect, the first temperature regulator (900) is also nominable as pretreatment regulator.

[0080] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is of active type.

[0081] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is activated in substantial temporal simultaneity with said sensor (405) and / or with said data processing unit and / or with said flow regulator (400). According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is operatively coupled to at least one between said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107) and / or is arranged upstream of said flow regulator (400).

[0082] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to activate said at least first temperature regulator (900) in substantial temporal simultaneity with said flow regulator (400).

[0083] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is operatively coupled to said at least one between said liquids supplying inlet, preferably water, (122) and said supplying duct (107), and / or is arranged upstream of said flow regulator (400), to heat or cool the liquid, optionally the water, or to force the maintaining of a predetermined temperature of the liquid, preferably of the water, in use contained in said liquids supplying inlet, preferably water, (122) and said supplying duct (107) and / or the water upstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably before its introduction in said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0084] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is arranged upstream of the inlet of said flow regulator (400).

[0085] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to dispense said beverage, in particular by means of said dispensing portion (109), in a removable container (800), preferably an final container destined to allow the direct ingestion of the beverage by a user, more in particular a container graspable by at least one single hand of a user, optionally a cup.

[0086] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) comprises, or is operatively connected with, at least one presence sensor (801 , 802) configured at least to identify a presence of said container (800).

[0087] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) comprises, or is operatively connected with, a first presence sensor (801) and a second presence sensor (802), wherein the first and the second presence sensor are configured at least to identify a presence of said container (800).

[0088] According to another non-limiting aspect, said presence sensor, in particular said first presence sensor (801) and / or said second presence sensor (802), is operatively connected to said flow control element (400) and transmitting a presence signal having at least:

[0089] - a first state, indicative of a presence of said container (800),

[0090] - a second state, indicative of an absence of said container (800).

[0091] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) has at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401 ) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a).

[0092] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when said presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when said presence signal is in said second state.

[0093] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when the presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when said presence signal is in said second state, subordinately to said at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

[0094] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises a control device (222, 223) configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container for dispensing beverages (190) operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0095] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to allow said flow control element (400) to open said first outlet (401) when said control device (222, 223) identifies said assembled operative configuration and / or identifies the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0096] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to electronically identify, by means of said control device (222, 223), at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages among a plurality of types of containers for dispensing beverages and / or of a first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of substances containable in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and is configured to regulate a voume of dispensing of said beverage, and / or a water dispensing volume flowing within said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or at least one between a time of dispensing of said water in said container for dispensing beverages (190), a temperature of said water, a pressure of said water, in accordance with said type of container for dispensing beverages and / or in accordance with said at least one first type of substance.

[0097] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is configured to electronically identify said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) identifying at least one among the following characteristics of the container for dispensing beverages (190): color of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190); shape of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190); weight of the container for dispensing beverages (190); graphic pattern of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190). According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to identify said at least one first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) in an indirect way, through at least one of said characteristics of said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0098] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is an optical recognition device.

[0099] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is a radio frequency identification device.

[0100] According to another non-limiting aspect, said container for dispensing beverages (190) comprises a RFID chip.

[0101] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is configured to electronically identify said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) by means of a reading of said RFID chip.

[0102] According to another non-limiting aspect, said RFID chip contains electronic data destined to be associated with a set of dispensing characteristics stored in said dispensing device (108).

[0103] According to another non-limiting aspect, said set of dispensing characteristics comprises data suitable for determining at least one between a predefined pressure of the water in use made to flow in said container for dispensing beverages (190), a temperature of the water in use made to flow in said container for dispensing beverages (190), a dispensing time of water within said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0104] According to another non-limiting aspect, said RFID chip stores said set of dispensing characteristics.

[0105] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably to open or close said first outlet (401), respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet (401) according to at least one value of at least one characteristic of said water, preferably subordinately to the identification of said assembled operative configuration and / or of said presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) by said control device (222, 223).

[0106] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises a second temperature regulator (109z) configured to regulate a temperature of said beverage.

[0107] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is also mentionable as posttreatment temperature regulator.

[0108] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is operatively arranged downstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably being arranged in said distributing body (108a).

[0109] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to heat or cool said beverage or to keep said beverage at least at a first predetermined temperature, optionally at least in a predetermined range of temperatures, optionally of heating or cooling. According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is arranged in correspondence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) and is configured to regulate a temperature of said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably being configured to heat or cool said container for dispensing beverages (190), or keep said container for dispensing beverages (190) at least at a first predetermined temperature, optionally at least in a predetermined range of temperatures, optionally of heating or cooling.

[0110] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is a temperature regulator of active type, preferably electrically supplied.

[0111] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) comprises a refrigeration duct or comprises at least one Peltier cell.

[0112] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is operatively connected to said data processing unit.

[0113] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to force a reaching of a predetermined temperature for said beverage or to keep a predetermined temperature of said beverage.

[0114] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to come into direct contact with said beverage and / or is placed, in use, in direct contact with said beverage.

[0115] According to another non-limiting aspect, alternative to the preceding aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to indirectly heat said beverage, preferably by means of a separator element arranged between said second temperature regulator (109z) and said beverage.

[0116] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing portion (109) comprises a dispensing cavity (109w).

[0117] According to another non-limiting aspect, in use said beverage flows in said dispensing cavity (109w).

[0118] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing cavity (109w) is arranged downstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0119] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is arranged inside of said dispensing cavity (109w).

[0120] According to another non-limiting aspect, alternative to the preceding aspect, said second temperature regulator (109z) is arranged outside of said dispensing cavity (109w).

[0121] According to another non-limiting aspect, in use said beverage flows in said dispensing cavity (109w).

[0122] According to another non-limiting aspect, the distributing device (108) is configured to activate said second temperature regulator (109z) in an at least partial temporal simultaneity with said first temperature regulator (900) and / or said second temperature regulator (109z) cooperates operatively with said first temperature regulator (900) to define a dispensing temperature of said beverage. According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) and / or said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to be activated in a continuous or discontinuous way.

[0123] According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing device (108) is configured to regulate, preferably in an operatively time-variant way, a contribution or subtraction of heat provided by said first temperature regulator (900) and / or by said second temperature regulator (109z).

[0124] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device (108) is in particular configured to determine, preferably in an operatively time-variant way, an electrical power supplied to the first temperature regulator (900) and / or by said second temperature regulator (109z), to regulate a contribution or subtraction of heat supplied by said first temperature regulator (900) and / or by said second temperature regulator (109z).

[0125] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) has at least one operative dispensing configuration wherein said first outlet (401) is open and supplies said water towards said dispensing portion (109) and / or through said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0126] According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing device (108) has at least one operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration, in the continuation of said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration.

[0127] According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing body (108a) is locked in connection with said supporting body (108b) and / or cannot be uncoupled and / or disconnected from said supporting body (108b).

[0128] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) is configured to keep said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration for at least part of the, preferably for the entire, continuation of said operative dispensing configuration.

[0129] Device for distributing liquids

[0130] In accordance with a further independent aspect is further described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

[0131] In accordance with a further independent aspect is further described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing spout (101), in use dispensing water, said device for distributing liquids comprising at least one first valve (104) connected to said dispensing spout (101) and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing spout (101) and a temperature of the water dispensed in use by said dispensing spout (101 ); the device for distributing liquids comprising a dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

[0132] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a secondary body, distinct from, and preferably separated with respect to, said body (103).

[0133] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is installed on said secondary body.

[0134] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a first temperature regulator (900).

[0135] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is operatively coupled to at least one between said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107).

[0136] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is operatively coupled to said at least one between said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107) to heat, in use, the water contained in said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107).

[0137] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supplying duct (107) is connected to, and supplies water towards, said at least one first valve (104).

[0138] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supplying duct (107) does not supply water towards said at least one first valve (104).

[0139] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid dispensing device comprises a user interface (105) preferably of electronic type.

[0140] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to allow to select the dispensing of a beverage through said dispensing device (108).

[0141] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to allow the activation of at least one between a pump or a valve for the introduction of water, or liquid, in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122).

[0142] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to determine a time-controlled dispensing and / or is configured to allow a selection of at least one first dispensing volume, preferably a plurality of dispensing volumes.

[0143] According to another non-limiting aspect, said at least one first dispensing volume, or said plurality of dispensing volumes, are calculated, and / or determined and / or associated to at least one first predefined type of container (800) and / or to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or said user interface (105) is configured to allow a variation of said at least one first dispensing volume, in accordance with a type of said container (800), and / or in accordance with said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) identified by means of said control device (222, 223). According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to determine an automatic stopping of said introduction of water, or liquid, in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122) upon reaching a predetermined dispensing time of said beverage and / or upon reaching a dispensing volume equal to said at least one first dispensing volume.

[0144] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to allow to select one of a plurality of beverages and is configured to allow to regulate a temperature of said water introduced in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122), optionally as a result of a selection of a particular beverage between said plurality of selectable beverages.

[0145] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured:

[0146] - to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one;

[0147] - to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401 ) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1 ) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0148] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to allow a regulation of the predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1).

[0149] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquids dispensing device (100) is configured to be operatively connected with a storage tank (412) suitable for containing in use said water.

[0150] According to another non-limiting aspect, said storage tank (412) is placed upstream of said inlet duct (107).

[0151] According to another non-limiting aspect, said an inlet of said flow control element (400) is connected with a discharge duct (199) configured to reintroduce water in a closed loop in said inlet duct (107) preferably through at least one among a storage tank (412), a heater, a pump (410), a one-way valve (411) and a control valve (408).

[0152] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) and / or said discharge duct (199) are connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107) of said liquids dispensing device (100).

[0153] Further dispensing device (capsule presence / coupling) In accordance with the present disclosure is further described a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a device for distributing liquids, the beverages dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0154] - a supporting body (108b);

[0155] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0156] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0157] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a liquids supplying inlet (122) configured to receive a liquid from a supplying duct (107);

[0158] - said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use said liquid from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply said liquid to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), wherein said dispensing device (108) has:

[0159] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said liquid flow from said water supplying inlet (122), into said container for dispensing beverages (190), and towards said dispensing portion (109);

[0160] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190), wherein said dispensing device (108) comprises a control device (222, 223) configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container for dispensing beverages (190) operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), and is configured to allow said flow control element (400) to open said first outlet (401) when said control device (222, 223) identifies said assembled operative configuration and / or identifies the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0161] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to control said flow control element (400) to keep closed said first outlet (401) for a period of time corresponding to the period of time wherein said control device (222, 223) identifies said disassembled operative configuration and / or identifies the absence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0162] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to make said flow control element (400) keep said first outlet (401 ) open, for an entire period of time wherein said control device (222, 223) identifies said assembled operative configuration and / or identifies the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0163] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquids dispensing device comprises a hydrosanitary device.

[0164] According to another non-limiting aspect, said hydrosanitary device comprises a faucet (100).

[0165] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the supply of said liquid toward said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably to open or close said first outlet (401), respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of said liquid on said first outlet (401) according to at least one value of at least one characteristic of said liquid, preferably subordinately to the identification of said assembled operative configuration and / or of said presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), by said control device (222, 223).

[0166] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) comprises at least one movable portion.

[0167] According to another non-limiting aspect, said movable portion is operatively coupled to, preferably arranged on, said distributing body (108a) and / or said supporting body (108b).

[0168] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is a control device of electrical and / or magnetic and / or capacitive type.

[0169] According to another non-limiting aspect, said distributing body (108a) is disconnectable, preferably completely disconnectable from said supporting body (108b).

[0170] According to another non-limiting aspect, in said disassembled operative configuration, said distributing body (108a) has been disconnected, preferably completely disconnected, from the supporting body (108b).

[0171] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) has at least one operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration.

[0172] According to another non-limiting aspect, in the continuation of said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration, said distributing body (108a) is locked in connection with said supporting body (108b) and / or cannot be uncoupled and / or disconnected from said supporting body (108b).

[0173] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) has at least one operative dispensing configuration wherein said first outlet (401) is open and supplies said liquid towards said dispensing portion (109) and / or through said container for dispensing beverages (190). According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) is configured to keep said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration for at least part of the, preferably for the entire, continuation of said operative dispensing configuration.

[0174] According to another non-limiting aspect, at least one between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) defines at least part of a housing cavity for said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0175] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow and / or pressure identification element, configured to identify the flow of said beverage and / or the flow of said liquid towards said dispensing portion (109) and / or through said container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or configured to detect an increase in pressure in the housing cavity.

[0176] According to another non-limiting aspect, said housing cavity is realized at least partially in at least one between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) and configured to house at least part of said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0177] According to another non-limiting aspect, said operative dispensing configuration is identified by means of said flow and / or pressure identification element.

[0178] Further dispensing device, with flow control element

[0179] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a liquids dispensing device; the beverages dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0180] - a supporting body (108b);

[0181] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0182] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0183] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a liquids supplying inlet (122) configured to receive a liquid from a supplying duct (107);

[0184] - said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use water from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said liquids supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to selectively allow or prevent the supply of said liquid toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid.

[0185] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquids supplying inlet (122) is a water supplying inlet.

[0186] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid comprises water.

[0187] Device for distributing liquids, with flow control element

[0188] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary, comprising:

[0189] - a liquids supplying inlet (122);

[0190] - a portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, operatively connected with the liquids supplying inlet;

[0191] - a flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said liquids supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply a liquid to said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the supply of said liquid towards said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, opening or closing, preferably in an automatic way, said at least one first outlet (401) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid.

[0192] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) comprises a second outlet (402), and said second outlet (402) is connected to said at least one first inlet.

[0193] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) is connected to a discharge and / or recirculation duct (199) of said device for distributing liquids.

[0194] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a beverages distributor and / or comprises a hydrosanitary device, preferably a devicefor liquid dispensing destined to be installed in a bathroom or in a kitchen, optionally a faucet (100) or a shower head.

[0195] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative, and preferably automatic, way with respect to said second outlet (402), to allow or prevent selectively the supply of said liquid to said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said liquid. According to another non-limiting aspect, the at least one characteristic of said liquid is at least a temperature and / or a pressure.

[0196] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises an inlet duct (107) connected to said liquids supplying inlet (122) and in use supplying said liquid to said liquids supplying inlet (122).

[0197] According to another non-limiting aspect, said inlet duct (107) is connected to a liquid source.

[0198] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said liquid.

[0199] According to another non-limiting aspect, the flow control element (400) is configured to prevent a reflux of said liquid from said first outlet (401) and / or from said second outlet (402) toward said inlet, independently of said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid.

[0200] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element is a passive control element, and / or comprises a thermostatic valve, preferably a valve with shape memory actuator or a valve with wax or fluid or gas actuator, preferably said thermostatic valve, preferably said shape memory actuator or with wax or fluid or gas actuator, is configured to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid.

[0201] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises at least one sensor (405) configured to detect said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid.

[0202] According to another non-limiting aspect:

[0203] - said sensor (405) is an electronic sensor,

[0204] - said flow control element (400) is configured to receive a signal, preferably an electronic signal, from said sensor (405).

[0205] According to another non-limiting aspect, said sensor is operatively coupled to, optionally arranged on or in, said supplying duct (107) or said water supplying inlet (122) or said inlet of said flow control element (400),

[0206] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107) preferably through at least one among a storage tank (412), a heater, a pump (410), a one-way valve (411) and a control valve (408). According to another non-limiting aspect, said at least one among said storage tank (412), heater, pump (410), one-way valve (411) and control valve (408) in use supplies said fluid to said supplying duct (107).

[0207] According to another non-limiting aspect, said second outlet (402) and / or said discharge and / or recirculation duct (199) is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107).

[0208] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top or a bathroom surface, and configured to sustain said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing.

[0209] According to another non-limiting aspect, said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing comprises a dispensing body (101), optionally a substantially rigid spout or a substantially flexible and / or extensible body.

[0210] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid dispensing device comprises at least one first valve (104) connected to said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a flow in said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing and a temperature of the liquid in use dispensed by means of said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing.

[0211] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401 ) when said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid, crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid, does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0212] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401) when said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said liquid crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic assumed by said liquid does cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0213] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to allow a regulation of a predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1).

[0214] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is a physical user interface, located on said device, optionally on said body (103), in a fixed or rotatable and / or translatable way, and / or being a remote user interface, optionally comprising a virtual assistant.

[0215] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device is in shape of beverages dispenser (108).

[0216] According to another non-limiting aspect, said beverages dispensing device (108) comprises:

[0217] - a supporting body (108b); - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0218] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0219] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a water supplying inlet (122) configured to receive said liquid from said supplying duct (107); and wherein said at least one flow control element (400) is operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receives in use said liquid from said supplying duct (107), and is configured to allow or prevent selectively the supply of said liquid toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic, of said liquid.

[0220] According to another non-limiting aspect, at least one between said supporting body and said distributing body (108a) realizes said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing.

[0221] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a first temperature regulator (900), of active type, operatively coupled to at least one between said liquids supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107) to heat or cool, in use, the liquid contained in said liquids supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107).

[0222] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first temperature regulator (900) is placed in substantial proximity to, in particular in substantial correspondence of, said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing.

[0223] Further dispensing device

[0224] In accordance with the present disclosure is further described a dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0225] - a supporting body (108b);

[0226] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a liquid; wherein:

[0227] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a water supplying inlet (122) configured to receive water from a supplying duct (107);

[0228] - said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use a liquid from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to dispense said liquid, and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply towards said at least one first outlet (401) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid.

[0229] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid comprises water.

[0230] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid is a liquid at room temperature.

[0231] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid is a pre-heated liquid.

[0232] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid is a pre-cooled liquid.

[0233] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device is for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a liquids dispensing device, preferably a faucet (100) for water dispensing.

[0234] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing portion (109) is configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage, in particular a water-based beverage.

[0235] According to another non-limiting aspect, at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0236] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first outlet (401 ) is configured to supply water to said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0237] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least said value assumed by said at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid, preferably of said water.

[0238] Use of the dispensing device

[0239] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described the use of the dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the aspects herein described for the dispensing of a liquid, preferably a beverage, optionally a coffee.

[0240] Use of the device for distributing liquids

[0241] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described the use of the device for distributing liquids according to one or more of the aspects herein described for the dispensing of a liquid, preferably a beverage, optionally a coffee. Further dispensing device with container presence detector

[0242] In accordance with a further independent aspect, is herein described a dispensing device (108), preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a device for distributing liquids, the beverages dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0243] - a supporting body (108b);

[0244] - a distributing body (108a) connected, preferably removably connected, to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage in a container (800); wherein said supporting body (108b) comprises a supplying inlet (122) configured to receive a liquid, preferably water, from a supplying duct (107); said dispensing device (108) comprising at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use said liquid from said supplying duct (107) and comprises at least one first presence sensor (801 , 802) configured at least to identify a presence of said container (800), said at least one first presence sensor (801 , 802) being operatively connected to said flow control element (400) and transmitting a presence signal having at least:

[0245] - a first state, indicative of a presence of said container (800);

[0246] - a second state, indicative of an absence of said container (800); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply said liquid to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the supply of said liquid toward said distributing body (108a) and / or toward said supporting body (108b) when said presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the supply of said liquid towards said distributing body (108a) and / or said supporting body (108b) when said presence signal is in said second state.

[0247] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supplying inlet (122) is a liquids supplying inlet, optionally a water supplying inlet.

[0248] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the supply of said liquid toward said distributing body (108a) and / or toward said supporting body (108b) by means of said supplying inlet (122).

[0249] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is a dispensing device for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages.

[0250] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) is configured to and / or specifically destined to, dispense a beverage extracted from containers for dispensing beverages. According to another non-limiting aspect, at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0251] According to another non-limiting aspect, said supplying duct (107) is a supplying duct of said device for distributing liquids.

[0252] According to another non-limiting aspect, said liquid comprises, optionally is, water.

[0253] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the supply of said liquid toward said distributing body (108a) and / or toward said supporting body (108b), making said liquid flow in said container for dispensing beverages (190) when said presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the supply of said liquid towards said distributing body (108a) and / or said supporting body (108b), preventing the dispensing of water in said container for dispensing beverages (190), when said presence signal is in said second state.

[0254] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing portion (109) is configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage in a container (800) arranged in at least one first predefined position with respect to said dispensing portion (109), optionally in at least one between a first predefined position and a second predefined position with respect to said dispensing portion (109).

[0255] According to another non-limiting aspect, said first state is indicative of the presence of said container (800) in said predefined position, optionally in at least one between said first predefined position and said second predefined position, and said second state is indicative of the absence of said container (800) in said predefined position, optionally in at least one between said first predefined position and said second predefined position.

[0256] According to another non-limiting aspect, said presence sensor (801, 802) comprises or is at least one between a load cell sensor or an optical sensor.

[0257] According to another non-limiting aspect, said presence sensor (801 , 802) is arranged, optionally in a fixed position, on a body (103) of said device for distributing liquids.

[0258] According to another non-limiting aspect, alternative to the preceding aspect, the presence sensor (801 , 802) is arranged in a movable position on a body (103) of said device for distributing liquids.

[0259] According to another non-limiting aspect, said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the supply of said liquid toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to a value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid, subordinately to said presence signal in said first state.

[0260] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) comprises a first presence sensor (801) and a second presence sensor (802), wherein the first and the second presence sensor are configured at least to identify a presence of said container (800).

[0261] According to another non-limiting aspect, said load cell sensor is configured to identify the presence or the absence of said container (800) in said first predefined position and, preferably is configured to identify at least one first weight of said container (800) and a second weight of said container (800), optionally said first weight of said container (800) and said second weight of said container (800) comprising a weight of said beverage contained in said container (800).

[0262] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) is configured to interrupt, preferably in an automatic way, a dispensing of said beverage upon reaching a determined volume or weight of said beverage in said container (800) and / or upon reaching a determined weight of said container (800) as a result of a dispensing of said beverage in said container (800), preferably by direct or indirect measurement of said volume or weight of said beverage carried out by said first presence sensor (801) and / or by said second presence sensor (802).

[0263] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises, or is operatively connected with, a data processing unit, said data processing unit being configured to receive a control signal from said first presence sensor and / or from said second presence sensor (802), and to interrupt, preferably in an automatic way, a dispensing of said beverage upon reaching a determined volume or weight of said beverage in said container (800) and / or upon reaching a determined weight of said container (800) as a result of a dispensing of said beverage in said container (800), preferably by direct or indirect measurement of said volume or weight of said beverage carried out by said first presence sensor (801) and / or by said second presence sensor (802).

[0264] According to another non-limiting aspect, said container (800) is destined to allow the ingestion of the beverage by a user.

[0265] Device for distributing liquids

[0266] In accordance with a further independent aspect is described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the aspects herein described.

[0267] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing body, preferably a spout (101), in use dispensing said liquid, preferably water.

[0268] According to another non-limiting aspect, said device for distributing liquids comprises at least one first valve (104) connected to said dispensing spout (101) and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing body (101) and a temperature of the liquid dispensed, in use, by said dispensing body (101).

[0269] Distributing device with blocking of the coupling

[0270] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device and more preferably a faucet (100), the beverages dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0271] - a supporting body (108b);

[0272] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0273] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0274] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a liquids supplying inlet (122) configured to receive a liquid from a supplying duct (107); wherein said dispensing device (108) has:

[0275] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said liquid flow from said liquids supplying inlet (122), into said container for dispensing beverages (190), and towards said dispensing portion (109);

[0276] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190); said distributing device (108) having at least one operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration, in the continuation of said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration, said distributing body (108a) being locked in connection with said supporting body (108b) and / or not being able to be uncoupled and / or disconnected from said supporting body (108b).

[0277] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use said liquid from said supplying duct (107).

[0278] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) has at least one operative dispensing configuration wherein said first outlet (401) is open and supplies said liquid towards said dispensing portion (109) and / or through said container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0279] According to another non-limiting aspect, the dispensing device (108) is configured to keep said operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration for at least part of the, preferably for the entire, continuation of said operative dispensing configuration.

[0280] Volume regulation In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing spout (101), in use dispensing water, said device for distributing liquids comprising at least one first valve (104) connected to said dispensing spout (101) and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing spout (101) and a temperature of the water dispensed in use by said dispensing spout (101 ); the device for distributing liquids comprising a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages; the dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0281] - a supporting body (108b);

[0282] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:

[0283] - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0284] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a supplying inlet (122) configured to receive water from a supplying duct (107); and wherein said dispensing device (108) comprises:

[0285] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said water flow from said supplying inlet (122), into said container for dispensing beverages (190), and towards said dispensing portion (109);

[0286] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190); wherein said liquid dispensing device comprises a user interface (105) preferably of electronic type, wherein said user interface (105) is configured to allow to select the dispensing of a beverage through said dispensing device (108), wherein said user interface (105) is configured to allow the activation of at least one between a pump or a valve for the introduction of water, or liquid, in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said supplying inlet (122), wherein said user interface (105) is configured to determine a time-controlled dispensing and / or is configured to allow a selection of at least one first dispensing volume, preferably a plurality of dispensing volumes; and wherein said at least one first dispensing volume, or said plurality of dispensing volumes, are calculated, and / or determined and / or associated to at least one first predefined type of container (800) and / or to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or to a first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of substances containable in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or said user interface (105) is configured to allow a variation of said at least one first dispensing volume, according to a type of said container (800), and / or according to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or a first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of substances containable in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), identified by means of a control device (222, 223) of said dispensing device (108), configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container for dispensing beverages (190) operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0287] Regulation of dispensing characteristics in accordance to a type of container for dispensing beverages.

[0288] In accordance with a further independent aspect is herein described a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing spout (101), in use dispensing a liquid, preferably water, said device for distributing liquids comprising at least one first valve (104) connected to said dispensing spout (101) and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing spout (101) and a temperature of the liquid in use dispensed by said dispensing spout (101 ); the device for distributing liquids comprising a dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages; the dispensing device (108) comprising:

[0289] - a supporting body (108b);

[0290] - a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage;

[0291] - a control device (222, 223), configured to electronically identify at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of types of containers for dispensing beverages, and / or a first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of containable substances in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), wherein: - at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);

[0292] - said supporting body (108b) comprises a supplying inlet (122) configured to receive a liquid, preferably water, from a supplying duct (107); wherein said liquid dispensing device comprises a user interface (105) preferably of electronic type, wherein said user interface (105) is configured to allow to select the dispensing of a beverage through said dispensing device (108), wherein said user interface (105) is configured to allow the activation of at least one between a pump or a valve for the introduction of water, or liquid, in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said supplying inlet (122), said dispensing device (108) being configured to regulate a volume of dispensing of said beverage, and / or a dispensing volume of said liquid flowing into said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or at least one between a dispensing time of said liquid in said container for dispensing beverages (190), a temperature of said liquid, a pressure of said liquid, according to said type of container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or of a first type of substance contained in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) among a plurality of substances containable in said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190).

[0293] According to another non-limiting aspect, said control device (222, 223) is also configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container for dispensing beverages (190) operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

[0294] According to another non-limiting aspect, said user interface (105) is configured to determine a time-controlled dispensing and / or is configured to allow a selection of at least one first dispensing volume, preferably a plurality of dispensing volumes.

[0295] According to another non-limiting aspect, said at least one first dispensing volume, or said plurality of dispensing volumes, are calculated, and / or determined and / or associated to said at least one first predefined type of container (800) and / or to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or said user interface (105) is configured to allow a variation of said at least one first dispensing volume, according to a type of said container (800), and / or according to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) identified by means of said control device (222, 223).

[0296] According to another non-limiting aspect, said dispensing device (108) comprises:

[0297] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said liquid flow from said supplying inlet (122), into said container for dispensing beverages (190), and towards said dispensing portion (109);

[0298] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190). Figures

[0299] The following detailed description refers to some non-limiting and preferred embodiments of the dispensing device and faucet object of the present disclosure.

[0300] The following detailed description refers to the attached figures, a short description thereof is provided below.

[0301] Figure 1 shows a front view of a kitchen faucet, arranged on a supporting plane and comprising a beverages dispensing device.

[0302] Figures 2 to 5 show some examples of containers for dispensing beverages.

[0303] Figure 6 shows a simplified view of a dispensing device comprising a flow control element having a single outlet; the flow control element is of passive type.

[0304] Figure 7 shows a diagram showing the opening or closing of the outlet of the flow control element according to a temperature of the water; if the temperature exceeds a threshold T1 , the flow control element opens the outlet, and allows the dispensing of the beverage.

[0305] Figure 8 shows a diagram showing the opening or closing of the outlet of the flow control element according to a pressure of the water; if the pressure of the water exceeds a threshold P1 , the flow control element opens the outlet, and allows the dispensing of the beverage.

[0306] Figure 9 shows a simplified view of a dispensing device comprising a flow control element having a single outlet; the flow control element is of active type (electronic).

[0307] Figure 10 shows a simplified view of a dispensing device comprising a flow control element having a first outlet and a second outlet; the flow control element is of active type (electronic).

[0308] Figure 11 shows a simplified view of a dispensing device comprising a flow control element having a first outlet and a second outlet; the flow control element is of passive type.

[0309] Figure 12 shows a diagram showing the switching between the dispensing between the first outlet and the second outlet according to a temperature of the water; if the temperature exceeds a threshold T1 , the flow control element opens the first outlet, and allows the dispensing of the beverage.

[0310] Figure 13 shows a diagram showing the switching between the dispensing between the first outlet and the second outlet according to a pressure of the water; if the pressure exceeds a threshold P1 , the flow control element opens the first outlet, and allows the dispensing of the beverage.

[0311] Figure 14 shows a first simplified diagram of a closed loop of at least partial recirculation of the water supplied to the dispensing device. Figure 15 shows a second simplified diagram of a closed loop of at least partial recirculation of the water supplied to the dispensing device.

[0312] Figure 16 shows a particular example of a first temperature regulator, part of, or associated to, a dispensing device object of the present disclosure.

[0313] Figure 17 shows a detail of a part of the dispensing device object of the present disclosure; in the embodiment the dispensing device is provided with a temperature variator element.

[0314] Figure 18 shows a cross-section view of a dispensing portion of a dispensing device object of the present disclosure.

[0315] Figure 19 shows a cross-section view of part of a dispensing device object of the present disclosure, provided with contacts suitable for identifying the coupling of the supporting body to the distributing body.

[0316] Detailed description

[0317] Description of a specific embodiment of a device for distributing liquids.

[0318] The reference number 100 indicates as a whole a specific embodiment of a device for distributing liquids in form of faucet 100 for water dispensing. The faucet 100 is configured to be installed on a supporting surface 200 preferably of substantially planar type.

[0319] The installation of the faucet 100 on the supporting surface 200 is of fixed type, or alternatively allows a relative mobility between the faucet 100 and the supporting surface 200.

[0320] In a non-limiting embodiment, the supporting surface 200 is a surface of a kitchen top. In this case, the faucet 100 becomes a kitchen faucet.

[0321] The faucet 100 comprises a body 103 having a substantially vertical development, orthogonal with respect to the supporting surface 200. The body 103 is preferably but not limiting thereto realized in metallic material.

[0322] The body 103 is connected to a dispensing spout 101 , which is movable with respect to the body 103 and preferably is at least rotatable with respect to the body 103.

[0323] The dispensing spout 101 ends with a dispensing mouth 102 which can comprise, for example and non-limiting thereto, a water aerator.

[0324] The dispensing spout 101 is a non-limiting example of a portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, which can comprise a substantially rigid or flexible and / or extensible body and which can comprise a single-jet or multi-jet dispenser i.e. provided with a plurality of selectively selectable nozzles. The dispensing spout 101 can comprise a rigid portion and an ending portion provided with a shower head flexible and / or extractable from the body 103.

[0325] On the body 103 is installed at least one valve 104 which allows to regulate at least one between a temperature of the water dispensed through the dispensing spout 101 and a flow (l / min) of said water. In a non-limiting embodiment, the valve 104 allows to carry out the two regulations by means of a first rotational movement and a second rotational movement, on two different and preferably orthogonal axes or planes.

[0326] In the embodiment of figure 1 the valve 104 protrudes substantially laterally from the body 103, and in particular develops at least partially along a direction substantially orthogonal with respect to a main development direction of the body 103 or of the assembly formed by the dispensing tube 101 and by the body 103.

[0327] The valve 104 receives water from at least one duct 107 that protrudes below the supporting surface 200 and that is at least partially arranged into the body 103. It can be deduced that the body 103 is at least partially hollow.

[0328] Figure 1 shows a particular embodiment of the faucet 100 wherein this faucet is configured to dispense conditioned water, for example not only more or less hot water, but also boiling water, or iced water or sparkling water.

[0329] For this purpose the faucet 100 can comprise a user interface 105 preferably of electronic type and comprising at least one between a display and a selector, preferably a rotating selector placed around the display itself.

[0330] The selector and / or the display allow the selection of water conditioning. It is therefore clear that in an embodiment, the user interface 105 is a user interface of physical type.

[0331] In figure 1 the user interface 105 is represented installed in a fixed position on the body 103 of the faucet. This configuration should not be intended as limiting. In fact, in an embodiment, the user interface 105 can be installed on a stand-alone body with respect to the body 103. The installation on the body 103, or on the stand-alone body with respect to the body 103, can be fixed, rotatable and / or translatable.

[0332] The dispensing device.

[0333] The faucet 100 comprises a dispensing device 108, which is described in detail below. Although in this portion of the description reference is made to a dispensing device destined to be applied to the faucet 100, this specific use application should not be intended in a limiting way. In fact, the dispensing device 108 can also be configured to be operatively coupled, or be an integral part of, a generic device for distributing liquids, such as a shower head, or more generally any type of hydrosanitary device, a beverages dispensing device of self-standing type.

[0334] In a preferred embodiment, the device identified by the reference number 108 is a dispensing device for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, in particular consumable and / or refillable containers.

[0335] Although in the present detailed description reference is made to the fact that the dispensing device 108 is associated to the faucet 100, this association should not be intended as limiting. In a preferred, but non-limiting, embodiment, the dispensing device 108 is configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to the faucet 100, and therefore differs with respect to dispensing devices such as coffee machines or similar, which instead are devices so-called "stand-alone”.

[0336] Although destined to be integrated on the faucet 100, the dispensing device 108 is able to be used also separately with respect to the traditional typical functionalities of the faucet 100, in particular relative to the hot, cold or conditioned water dispensing.

[0337] For this reason, the faucet 100 that integrates the dispensing device 108 is also usable as a coffee machine.

[0338] The dispensing device 108 comprises a supporting body 108b and a distributing body 108a which will be better described in the following portion of description.

[0339] In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the valve 104 and the supporting body 108b are positioned at a substantially identical height and are positioned on two opposite sides of the body 103 of the faucet 100.

[0340] The user interface 105 can be configured to determine the activation of a dispensing pump, preferably placed below the supporting surface 200, which allows the dispensing of the beverage by means of the dispensing device 108 herein described.

[0341] In particular, the user interface 105 can be configured to allow to select a predetermined dispensing time or a predetermined dispensing volume. This is particularly convenient where beverages are dispensed that are typically consumed starting from a standard-sized container.

[0342] The predetermined dispensing volume can be viewed on the user interface 105 and / or selected with a volumetric criterion (for example, being expressed in ml) or with pictograms (for example, a coffee cup, two coffee cups, a teacup). In an embodiment, through the user interface 105 the user can select one among a plurality of dispensing volumes according to the type of container 800 that he intends to use.

[0343] Thanks to this technical characteristic, the user can position the appropriate container (for example, an espresso coffee cup, identified with the reference number 800), introduce the beverage distributing container 190 in the dispensing device 108 as described below and start the dispensing of the beverage without worrying about stopping the flow thereof, which is automatically stopped by means of the stopping of the pump determined on the basis of the selected volumetry. An appropriate flow meter is provided for the purpose of measuring the actual dispensed volume.

[0344] The dispensing volumes can be defined as desired by the user or loaded from a list of predefined dispensing volumes, the corresponding electronic data thereof are stored on a memory that is electronically accessed by the data processing unit that is operatively connected to the user interface 105.

[0345] Furthermore, or alternatively, the user interface 105 can be configured to allow to select a water dispensing temperature as a function of the type of dispensed beverage. In this specific case, the user interface 105 can have one or more pictograms identifying a particular beverage, to which a predetermined dispensing temperature is operatively associated. Although an embodiment of the faucet 100 herein described allows to select the temperature directly by means of the user interface 105 (for example by regulating the temperature at 90°C, or at 92°C, or at 95°C), a preferred embodiment allows to regulate the temperature as a result of the type of selected beverage.

[0346] It is in fact known that an optimal coffee dispensing provides the infusion of granulated coffee in water the temperature thereof is in the range [92-96] °C; it is also known that the best appreciation of the flavor of a green tea requires infusion in water the temperature thereof is in the range [70-80]°C.

[0347] Therefore, when the user inserts into the dispensing device 108 herein described a green tea capsule, he will select by means of the user interface 105 a pictogram corresponding to green tea, and consequently the faucet 100 object of the present disclosure will select the most appropriate water dispensing temperature in the dispensing device 108, for example 75°C. If instead the user introduces into the dispensing device 108 a coffee capsule, he will select by means of the user interface 105 a pictogram corresponding to a coffee cup, and consequently the faucet 100, object of the present disclosure, will select a water temperature, for example, equal to 94°C.

[0348] Therefore, the user does not necessarily need to know the exact temperature of the water in order to fully enjoy the beverage dispensable by means of the dispensing device 108 herein described.

[0349] In the embodiment shown in the attached figures, the dispensing portion 109 assumes the form of a single outlet spout; otherwise, in a further embodiment, the dispensing portion 109 can assume the form of a two-outlet spout.

[0350] In an optional embodiment, not shown in the attached figures, the dispensing portion 109 has a variable extension for adapting to a proximity and / or size of the final container 800.

[0351] In this embodiment, the dispensing portion is configurable in a first extension configuration, preferably in use arranged at a first distance from the final container 800, and in a second extension configuration, preferably in use arranged at a second distance from the final container 800; the second distance is greater than the first distance.

[0352] This embodiment acts in a dual way with respect to having a possibility of varying the height assumed by the dispensing device 108 with respect to the supporting plane 200, and is advantageously useful for compensating for different sizes or heights of the final container 800.

[0353] The two extension configurations can be manually altered, either with an electric command, or automatically at the start of the dispensing of the beverage.

[0354] In this regard, it is noted that the dispensing device 108, object of the present disclosure, can be provided with a plurality of distributing bodies 108a that are alternatively connectable to the supporting body 108b.

[0355] For the purposes of the present disclosure, therefore, the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure can comprise a distributing body 108a and an auxiliary distributing body 108a, alternatively connectable to the supporting body 108b instead of the distributing body 108a.

[0356] This option is preferable where it is possible to select different volumes with the user interface 105, for example for the coffee dispensing sufficient for one or alternatively for two coffee cups. It is clear that the present disclosure describes a particular embodiment wherein a dispensing portion 109 of the distributing body 108a and a dispensing portion 109 of the auxiliary distributing body 108a differ by shape and / or structure. Preferably, the dispensing portion 109 of the auxiliary distributing body 108a comprises a first outlet and a second outlet that allow to dispense the beverage simultaneously in two different containers.

[0357] Figure 1 shows schematically some components of the dispensing device 108 which will be described in detail below.

[0358] A first component of the dispensing device 108 is the supporting body 108b.

[0359] In a preferred, non-limiting, embodiment, the supporting body 108b is configured to be coupled, in particular directly coupled, and more in particular fixed, to the body 103 of the faucet 100. In particular, the supporting body 108b can be integral part of body 103 of the faucet 100.

[0360] A second component of the dispensing device 108 is the distributing body 108a which is connected to said supporting body 108b.

[0361] In the embodiments shown in the attached figures, the distributing body 108a is removably connected to the supporting body 108b but this configuration should not be intended as limiting. It has been in fact conceived an embodiment of the dispensing device 108 wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are connected in a movable but not separable manner.

[0362] A further embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure comprises a distributing body 108a solidly connected to the supporting body 108b.

[0363] The distributing body 108a comprises a dispensing portion 109 configured to allow a distribution of a beverage in an final container 800, for example, a coffee cup.

[0364] The ideal axis for dispensing the beverage into the container is identified by the letter K.

[0365] Figure 1 shows also the presence of a dispensing plate 108c which is positioned on the supporting surface 200 and which is for example realized in plastic and / or metallic material.

[0366] The dispensing plate 108c is arranged below the dispensing portion, for example in axis with the ideal axis K of dispensing.

[0367] The purpose of the dispensing plate 108c is to collect part of the beverage that during the dispensing could exit from the container 800.

[0368] The final container 800 is a container specifically destined to allow the user to drink the beverage directly from the container itself. For example, and non-limiting thereto, the final container 800 is a coffee cup.

[0369] Preferably, but non-limiting thereto, the faucet 100 object of the present disclosure is configured to keep the supporting body 108b at a predetermined height with respect to the support 200. Figure 1 shows an example of a faucet marked by this characteristic. Further examples of faucet 100, which however are not shown in the attached figures, are configured to allow a regulation of a height assumed by the supporting body 108b with respect to the support 200. In particular, the supporting body 108b can translate vertically on the body 103 of the faucet 100 between a first and lower height and a second higher height. The first, lower height can place, for example, the supporting body 108b and, when coupled, the distributing body 108a, at a height substantially close to a coffee cup arranged on the support 200. The above- mentioned height regulation is reflected in an adjustment of the height assumed by the dispensing portion 109.

[0370] The supporting body 108b develops along a substantially oblique direction with respect to the development direction (substantially vertical) of the body 103 of the faucet and / or with respect to the development direction overall identified by the assembly formed by the body 103 and by the dispensing spout 101.

[0371] The distributing body 108a is removably connectable to said supporting body 108b along the substantially oblique direction and / or along the direction axial to the development axis of the supporting body 108b. The development axis of the supporting body 108b is indicated in the attached figures with the reference Z. This axis also constitutes the coupling axis or, in any case, the approaching axis between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b.

[0372] The embodiment shown in the attached figures shows a solution wherein the distributing body 108a is removably connectable to the supporting body 108b along a direction substantially axial to the axis of a water flow that transits the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0373] Examples of containers for dispensing beverages.

[0374] Before going into the detailed description of the various components of the dispensing device 108, some embodiments of containers for beverages dispensing will be hereinafter described.

[0375] Reference is made to figures 2 to 5.

[0376] A first example of container for dispensing beverages 190 is described in figure 2. This container for dispensing beverages 190 assumes substantially truncated cone-shaped capsule form and is preferably of "disposable” type. After the use, the container for dispensing beverages 190 is appropriately thrown in the trash.

[0377] The capsule has a lateral wall, a head wall 191 and a bottom wall, opposed to the head wall and that realizes a dispensing portion 193. The dispensing portion 193 is the one from which, in use, the beverage exits by effect of the introduction of the water in the inner volume of the capsule.

[0378] The inner volume of the capsule is defined by the head wall, the lateral wall and the bottom wall.

[0379] As is visible in figure 2, the head wall 191 , of substantially discoidal and planar form, is joined in correspondence of an upper annular edge of the lateral wall. The bottom wall, of substantially discoidal and planar form too, is joined in correspondence of a lower annular edge of the lateral wall.

[0380] The capsule comprises a ring 192, which realizes an engaging portion for the capsule in mechanisms that determine its retention in a predetermined position. Preferably the ring is substantially rigid. The engaging portion is a peripheral portion. In case of the embodiment of figure 2, the engaging portion is arranged in correspondence of an end of the capsule. However, the engaging portion could also be placed in correspondence of an intermediate portion of the lateral wall of the capsule (referred to the average infusion direction between the head wall 191 and the dispensing portion 193).

[0381] All the walls of the capsule are substantially airtight, and this allows to preserve the granulate contained herein for a long time. The body of the container for dispensing beverages 190 is in this case realized in plastic material and in particular can be realized in plastic material specifically destined to provide a barrier to oxygen, in order to preserve the aroma of the granulated or shredded product contained therein for as long as possible.

[0382] However, at least one between the upper wall and the lower wall are configured to be pierced by piercers which determine the possibility for the water to wet the granulate contained in the inner volume of the capsule in order to extract aromas and determine the possibility of extracting the beverage preferably from a direction substantially opposed with respect to the one of introduction of the water.

[0383] Figure 3 shows a container for dispensing beverages 190 of substantially discoidal form, formed by the juxtaposition of an upper portion that realizes the head wall 191 and of a lower portion that realizes the dispensing portion 193. The upper portion and the dispensing portion are substantially identical and of substantially specular form and each one has a peripheral annular portion preferably of circular shape.

[0384] The upper portion and the dispensing portion are between joined together for example by means of ultrasonic welding, in correspondence of the peripheral annular portion.

[0385] Cambers present on the central area of the upper portion and on the dispensing portion define the inner volume of the capsule.

[0386] As clearly visible in figure 3, this capsule is reversible - i.e. it can be turned upside down by 180° - transforming the dispensing portion in head wall and vice versa.

[0387] The upper portion and the lower portion can be substantially insulating (for example, realized in a plastic / aluminum assembly) or comprise a porous material (for example, cellulose) to allow the passage of the beverage.

[0388] Also in this case the upper portion and / or the lower portion can be pierced through at least one piercer to allow the extraction of the beverage.

[0389] Also the container for dispensing beverages 190 of figure 3 is preferably of "disposable” type.

[0390] Figure 4 shows a further variant of a container for dispensing beverages 190, with a substantially rigid bowlshaped body. Upperly, the lateral wall - which defines a preferably substantially circular transversal section - has a closing lip that defines a head wall 191 , and has a ring 192 that realizes an engaging portion of the capsule. Below, the bowl is tapered and has a dispensing portion 193 in the form of a small conduit or spout, substantially rigid too. The dispensing portion 193 can be provided with a sealing lip, arranged in a distal position and accessible from the outside of the capsule or in a position inside the bowl.

[0391] The sealing lip can be fractured by the action of a piercer or by the action of the pressure exerted by the water that is introduced into use from the capsule in correspondence of the head wall 191 .

[0392] The capsule of figure 4 is preferably of "disposable” type.

[0393] Finally, a further variant of container for dispensing beverages 190 is shown in figure 5. This is a container for dispensing beverages 190 of reusable type.

[0394] In this case the container for dispensing beverages 190 has a first body 190a and a second body 190b, for example, of substantially bowl-shaped form, removably assemblable in correspondence of their contact portions which - when the container is in assembled configuration - determine the realization of a ring 192 that realizes an engaging portion of the capsule.

[0395] On the first body 190a is defined a dispensing portion 193 and on the second body 190b is defined a head portion 191.

[0396] The granulate or shredded material is introduced into at least one between the first body 190a and the second body 190b. At this point, the two bodies can be coupled to realize the capsule herein described, ready to be introduced into the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure.

[0397] The container for dispensing beverages 190 shall not be considered necessarily closed or closable or provided with couplable portions so as to define a substantially closed chamber, as shown in the embodiments 2 to 5. The container for dispensing beverages 190 can be of a substantially open type and provided, for example, with a cup or funnel conformation. In a tapered portion, this cup or funnel defines the dispensing portion 193, which can have a plurality of small holes destined to allow the passage of the water that has been enriched by the aroma of the granulate, but which substantially prevents the passage of the granulate itself.

[0398] A non-limiting embodiment of the container for dispensing beverages 190 can be specifically destined to be filled with a granular product through a teaspoon, and can assume the shape of a funnel or filter for Moka.

[0399] The retainment of the container for dispensing beverages.

[0400] Generally, at least one between said supporting body 108b and said distributing body 108a is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0401] As will be better clarified in the following description, a preferred embodiment comprises a supporting body 108b configured to contain substantially the whole container for dispensing beverages 190, whereas the distributing body 108a retains said container for dispensing beverages 190 in a removable way, but the container for dispensing beverages 190 is not substantially introduced in the distributing body 108a. Due to the fact that the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are removably connectable (in some embodiments, completely disconnectable), it is clear that the dispensing device 108 herein described has:

[0402] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body 108b and said distributing body 108a are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage by making said water flow from the supplying duct 107 of the faucet, through the duct of the water supplying inlet 122 into the container for dispensing beverages 190 and towards the dispensing portion 109, and

[0403] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are uncoupled and allow an access to the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0404] A specific embodiment provides that the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, in the assembled operative configuration, although disconnected can be retained by a retainer, such as a wire, tape, or flexible or otherwise deformable, or movable element.

[0405] A further embodiment, alternative to the preceding one, is such that the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, in the assembled operative configuration, are completely disconnected; in this case, no element retains the distributing body 108a to the supporting body 108b.

[0406] As will be better clarified in the following portion of the description, some embodiments of the distributing device 108 herein described can be configured to transport a generic liquid, and are associated to a generic device for distributing liquids. Therefore, it should not be intended that the water supplying inlet 122 is solely destined to water. This inlet should generally be considered as liquids supplying inlet.

[0407] Clearly, the assembled operative configuration and the disassembled operative configuration are alternative. In the disassembled operative configuration, the container for dispensing beverages 190 is freely coupleable or uncoupleable to at least one between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a.

[0408] The name "supporting body” is given by the fact that - as can be clearly seen, for example, from figure 6, and / or from the exploded view of figure 7 - this body supports and, in particular, sustains the distributing body 108a when thereto connected.

[0409] The name "distributing body” is given by the fact that this body is mainly responsible for finalizing the dispensing of the beverage in the final container.

[0410] When the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are in assembled operative configuration, the container for dispensing beverages 190 results interposed, in particular compressed and / or blocked, between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a.

[0411] In light of this, it seems clear that the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, when coupled in the assembled operative configuration, define as a whole a housing volume configured to contain, preferably completely, the container for dispensing beverages 190. The housing volume is defined in a housing cavity that, according to the embodiments, can be defined in the supporting body 108b, or entirely defined in the distributing body 108a, or partially defined in the supporting body 108b and in the distributing body 108a.

[0412] As will be better clarified later, the housing volume is defined at least partially by a cavity which is configured to contain at least part of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0413] The dispensing of the beverage.

[0414] In an operative configuration of dispensing, which is a configuration at least temporarily assumed by the dispensing device 108, the water, or more generally the liquid with which the beverage is realized, flows from the water supplying inlet 122 into the supporting body 108b, and in particular flows into the cavity thereof. The water, then, flows substantially entirely within the container for dispensing beverages 190, and from the latter flows into the distributing body 108a so that it can finally be dispensed in the final container.

[0415] Inside the container for dispensing beverages 190 there is a granulate that comprises for example ground coffee beans or parts of plant leaves such as tea. This granulate offers a resistance to the free flow of the water, and therefore a counter-pressure toward the water supplying inlet 122.

[0416] The water flow permeates the granulate and some aromatic substances are extracted from the granulate itself, also thanks to the fact that this water flow is preferably hot.

[0417] As a result, a flavored liquid, the beverage, comes out of the container for dispensing beverages 190 and is dispensed through the dispensing portion 109 in the final container.

[0418] The container for dispensing beverages 190 can be generally configured to also contain a shredded biological product. Consequently, the faucet 100 herein described is preferably configured to dispense the beverage in an final container destined to allow a direct intake of the beverage by the user.

[0419] The selection of the hot water dispensing toward the dispensing device 108 described herein can conveniently be carried out by means of the user interface 105; an appropriate action by the user on the user interface 105 can for example determine an automatically time-limited opening of a solenoid valve determining the introduction of hot water into the water supplying inlet 122.

[0420] The hot water dispensing toward the dispensing device 108 can also take place by means of a remote command.

[0421] This remote command can be a remote control, preferably of wireless type (device dedicated or portable electronic device, comprising an appropriate software application).

[0422] The hot water dispensing toward the dispensing device 108 can also be carried out by means of a virtual assistant. The virtual assistant is in particular able to receive a vocal command from the user. The virtual assistant can therefore conveniently perform the function of a remote user interface. In this case there will be conveniently present a data processing unit that allows the control of the virtual assistant and that is operatively connected with the pump and / or valve that allows the hot water dispensing in the water supplying inlet 122.

[0423] The data processing unit can comprise a processor of the general-purpose type, or a dedicated integrated circuit (ASIC) or processor or an FPGA or a programmable logic controller, and can comprise, and / or be operatively connected with, a memory.

[0424] The above-mentioned data processing unit may conveniently be the data processing unit that is configured to control the operation of a flow control element, part of the dispensing device. This flow control element will be better described below.

[0425] It is in particular known that the quality espresso coffee dispensing takes place by means of an extraction determined by a pressurization of the container for dispensing beverages 190. Then, the dispensing device 108 is destined to withstand - as a whole - a predetermined hydraulic pressure, for example equal to 2 or 4 or 6 bar or 10 bar or 15 bar or 20 bar or 25 bar.

[0426] The operative dispensing configuration can be advantageously identified through a flow and / or pressure identification element, which may include a mechanical sensor and / or an electronic sensor. Conveniently, both the mechanical sensor and the electronic sensor can be operatively connected to the aforementioned data processing unit.

[0427] The flow and / or pressure identification element can, for example, be placed in correspondence of, or made operatively active in correspondence of, the dispensing portion 109, the housing cavity of the container for dispensing beverages 190, the inlet duct 107, the water supplying inlet 122.

[0428] The flow and / or pressure identification element is configured to identify the flow of said beverage and / or the flow of said liquid towards said dispensing portion (109) and / or through said container for dispensing beverages, and / or configured to identify an increase of pressure in the housing cavity, a sign of resistance to the flow exerted by the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0429] In particular, in the preferred embodiment, the supporting body 108b shall beca able to withstand the aboveindicated pressure due to the fact that it contains the container for dispensing beverages 190. The distributing body 108a shall in any case withstand the above-indicated pressure due to the fact that, as will be better clarified in the following portion of the description, is axially pushed in expulsion by the coupling on the supporting body 108b (in particular by the cavity) due to said pressure that first of all is discharged on the head wall 191 .

[0430] In light of the preceding description, it is clear that the present disclosure shows a technical solution wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, when in said assembled operative configuration, define a liquid-tight coupling.

[0431] More in particular this coupling is destined to allow the transit of said water from said supplying inlet 122 to said dispensing portion 109 exclusively through the container for dispensing beverages 190. In a particular embodiment, at least one between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of the container for dispensing beverages 190 independently of its own orientation in space.

[0432] Alternatively, at least one between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of the container for dispensing beverages 190 only when in a first plurality of spatial orientation configurations (or at least in a first spatial orientation configuration) and to release the container for dispensing beverages 190 in a second plurality of spatial orientation configurations, the second plurality being different from the first plurality.

[0433] Also alternatively, or in combination, at least one between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a comprises elements for retaining the container for dispensing beverages 190, and has:

[0434] - an operative retaining configuration wherein said retaining elements retain the container for dispensing beverages 190; and

[0435] - an operative releasing configuration, wherein said retaining elements are moved in order to release the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0436] The presence of at least one spatial orientation configuration and / or the presence of movable retaining elements advantageously allows not having to touch the container for dispensing beverages 190 with the hands; in fact, immediately after dispensing the beverage, this container could be particularly hot or slightly dirty.

[0437] Therefore, the above-mentioned technical characteristics conveniently allow a greater comfort of use of the dispensing device herein described.

[0438] Blocking of the assembled operative configuration.

[0439] The distributing device 108 object of the present disclosure can have a operative configuration of locking of the assembled operative configuration.

[0440] In this configuration, it is not possible to disengage the dispensing body 108a from the supporting body 108b. This is particularly convenient in cases where the dispensing of the beverage takes place with a liquid at high temperature and / or high pressure, since it prevents the user from being splashed with a liquid whose physical conditions may determine an accident, for example a burn.

[0441] In the continuation of the operative configuration of locking of the assembled operative configuration, the distributing body 108a is locked in connection with the supporting body 108b and cannot be uncoupled from and / or disconnected from the latter.

[0442] Locking elements, such as movable pins, can be actuated, for example, by the data processing unit through appropriate servo actuators, during the operative configuration of locking of the assembled operative configuration, and determine the impossibility of translating or rotating the distributing body 108a with respect to the supporting body 108b.

[0443] It is therefore clear that the present disclosure shows a specific embodiment of a dispensing device 108 for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device and more preferably a faucet 100.

[0444] In this specific embodiment, which does not necessarily include the presence of the flow regulator 400, the beverages dispensing device 108 comprises:

[0445] - a supporting body 108b, in particular having the characteristics herein described,

[0446] - a distributing body 108a connected to said supporting body 108b and comprising a dispensing portion 109 configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage.

[0447] The technical characteristics that regulate the coupling between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are those provided in the present disclosure.

[0448] In this embodiment, at least one between said supporting body 108b and said distributing body 108a is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages 190 and, as in other embodiments herein described, the supporting body 108b comprises a liquids supplying inlet 122 configured to receive a liquid from a supplying duct 107.

[0449] The dispensing device 108, as previously mentioned, can optionally comprise at least one flow control element 400.

[0450] Similarly to other embodiments, the dispensing device 108 has:

[0451] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage by making said liquid flow from said liquids supplying inlet 122, into the container for dispensing beverages 190, and towards the dispensing portion 109;

[0452] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0453] The distributing device 108 has at least one operative configuration of locking of said assembled operative configuration; in the continuation of said operative configuration of locking of the assembled operative configuration, said distributing body 108a is locked in connection with said supporting body 108b and / or cannot be uncoupled and / or disconnected from said supporting body 108b.

[0454] In a non-limiting embodiment, the dispensing device 108 is configured to keep the operative configuration of locking of the assembled operative configuration for at least part of the continuation of the dispensing operative configuration, and preferably for the entire continuation of the dispensing operative configuration. Finally, some embodiments may provide for maintaining the operational locking configuration of the assembled operative configuration for a predetermined period of time after the termination of the operative dispensing configuration. This allows to have a greater safety, for example, of complete pressure release inside the housing cavity of the container for dispensing beverages 190, and allows to further reduce the risk of injury of the user when handling the distributing body 108a in uncoupling from the supporting body 108b.

[0455] The retainers.

[0456] As schematically shown in figures 9-11 , in a non-limiting embodiment the dispensing device 108 comprises a retainer 118, 119, for the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0457] The retainer 118, 119 can be integrally placed in correspondence of, and / or be part of the, distributing body 108a, or be placed in correspondence of the, and / or be part of the, supporting body 108b.

[0458] However, a preferred embodiment provides that the body that comprises the retainer 118, 119 is effectively the distributing body 108a.

[0459] Such retainer 118, 119 comprises a ring-shaped body and in correspondence of two radially opposed portions thereof depart two flaps 118 provided with respective flexible blades that retain the container for dispensing beverages 190 in correspondence of an engaging portion thereof 192.

[0460] The retainer 118, 119 protrudes forward in correspondence of a front portion of the distributing body 108a which in use is the portion that first meets the supporting body 108b at the coupling of the distributing body 108a with the latter.

[0461] When the distributing body 108a is coupled to the supporting body 108b, the retainer 118, 119 is introduced into the supporting body 108b itself, but lies preferably outside the previously mentioned housing volume.

[0462] Two blades, extending from the flaps 118 towards a radially central portion of the ring-shaped body, retain the capsule in correspondence of its engaging ring.

[0463] Clearly, although not shown, the Applicant has conceived a dual embodiment, wherein the supporting body 108b comprises the above-mentioned retainer 118, 119.

[0464] In an embodiment, the retainer 118, 119 is rotationally fixed with respect to the outer casing of the distributing body 108a and / or of the supporting body 108b, and in particular cannot rotate with respect to said outer casing on an axis coinciding with the coupling axis between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, and / or on an axis coinciding with the flow axis of the beverage in the dispensing cavity and / or through the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0465] However, the retainer 118, 119 can be movable by rotation (in particular so as to result at least partially inclined with respect to the axis mentioned in the preceding paragraph), and / or by translation with respect to the outer casing, so as to promote, in a specific releasing use configuration, the release of the container for dispensing beverages 190, or alternatively, in a specific engaging use configuration, so as to appropriately engage, the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0466] In a further embodiment alternative to the preceding one, the retainer 118, 119 can be rotationally movable with respect to the outer casing of the distributing body 108a and / or of the supporting body 108b, and the rotation takes place on the axis coinciding with the coupling axis or the flow axis. The rotation can take place in particular between a first rotation configuration with respect to the outer casing (preferably in resting configuration) and at least one second rotation configuration with respect to the outer casing (preferably unstable configuration). The rotation between the first and second rotation configuration can take place uninterruptedly.

[0467] A first coupling mode between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b provides a purely axial insertion of at least part of one of the two into the other.

[0468] A second coupling mode between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b provides a juxtaposition between these two, and the retainment in a coupled configuration is determined by engaging means that rigidly engage the distributing body 108a to the supporting body 108b.

[0469] A further coupling mode provides a bayonet coupling. The bayonet coupling is a roto-translatory coupling that comprises:

[0470] - a substantially translatory movement axial along a coupling axis Z between said distributing body 108a and said supporting body 108b, and

[0471] - a substantially rotatory movement of said distributing body 108a with respect to said supporting body 108b.

[0472] The roto-translational movement could also be a screwing movement, but specifically when in bayonet form, the translatory movement has a first part and a second part, and specifically comprises:

[0473] - a first purely translatory movement axial along said coupling axis Z and wherein said distributing body 108a and said supporting body 108b are kept in a predefined position of reciprocal angular rotation on said coupling axis Z;

[0474] - a second movement translatory axial along said coupling axis Z, taking place simultaneously with said substantially rotatory movement.

[0475] The effect of the above-mentioned movements is to determine a retainment of the beverage distributing container 190 in a predefined and fixed position within the housing volume and to make it possible that when the water is supplied to the dispensing device 108 herein described, this water - not finding substantially space in eventual interspaces present between the outer surface of the beverage distributing container 190 and the surfaces of the housing volume defined by the cavity and by the striking surface, is exclusively made to transit through the beverage distributing container 190.

[0476] Flow control element. In order to optimize the dispensing of the beverage, for allowing the user to better appreciate the organoleptic characteristics of the beverage itself and helping to reduce the risk of malfunctions, the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure comprises a flow control element 400. The flow control element realizes a valve, which, as will be better clarified in the following portion of the description, can be of active or passive type. In an embodiment, the valve can have only an open configuration and a closed configuration alternative to the open configuration; in other embodiments, the valve can have a plurality of open configurations with orifice of variable size (variable flow rate in open configuration).

[0477] Although this should not be intended as limiting, the flow control element 400 can be of a one-way type and configured to prevent a reflux from an outlet thereof towards an inlet thereof, or, if provided with a plurality of outlets, from one or both outlets towards the inlet. In particular, the reflux is prevented independently of the value assumed by the characteristic of the water.

[0478] As will be clarified in the following portion of the description, the flow control element 400 shall not be intended as destined to be necessarily associated to a dispensing device 108 for dispensing beverages.

[0479] In an embodiment, the flow control element 400 is operatively connected to the supporting body 108b, and receives in use water from the supplying duct 107 that is placed into the body of the faucet. Specifically, the flow control element 400 receives water from the water supplying inlet 122 which, in turn, receives water from the supplying duct 107.

[0480] The flow control element can be provided with a single inlet or a plurality of inlets.

[0481] The flow control element 400 comprises at least one first outlet 401 configured to supply the water to the supporting body 108b and, consequently, to the distributing body 108a, and - when present - to the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0482] Different embodiments of flow control elements 400 can be used in the dispensing device 108. Some of these embodiments have a single outlet, others have a plurality of outlets.

[0483] The flow control element 400 is configured to open or, alternatively, close the first outlet 401 , respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of the water on the first outlet 401 according to at least one value of at least one characteristic of the water.

[0484] The flow control element 400 is in particular configured to open or, alternatively close the first outlet 401 in an automatic way according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic of the water. Thanks to this technical characteristic, the user does not need to perform any specific action to determine the passage from the open configuration to the closed configuration of the outlet. The flow control element is designed to operate without the need for a systematic control by the user.

[0485] The flow control element is then configured to allow or prevent selectively, and then in an alternative way, the water supply towards the container for dispensing beverages 190 according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic of the water. The characteristic of the water can be for example, the pressure P [Pa] or the temperature T [°C],

[0486] The outlet,

[0487] Figure 6 shows a non-limiting embodiment wherein the flow control element 400 assumes the form of ON / OFF type valve, having a single outlet and is of passive type. In particular the flow control element 400 realizes for example a thermostatic valve that, when the water reaches a determined temperature, opens allowing the introduction of water into the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0488] The passage from the open configuration to the closed configuration of the outlet 401 is to be intended as almost instantaneous. A particular embodiment is such that when the outlet 401 is open, it is open with almost the maximum possible span.

[0489] Figure 7 shows a temperature diagram as a function of time. Figure 7 identifies a temperature value T1 which identifies a temperature switching threshold. Between time 0 and time t1 the temperature of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 is lower than the switching threshold T 1 and the outlet 401 is closed. The water is not dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0490] At time t1 the temperature of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 reaches the switching threshold of temperature T1. The outlet 401 is open, and the water is dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0491] Therefore, independently of the activation of the pump or of the valve that allows the water supply in the inlet duct 107, the start of the dispensing of the beverage takes place only after the reaching of the switching threshold T 1 . The previously indicated temperature values can be used to define the temperature switching threshold.

[0492] The thermostatic valve can be a valve with wax switching element. A wax switching element is such as to be sensitive to the variation of volume with the variation of the temperature of the wax (in turn a function of the temperature of the inlet water) to determine a switching of the position of the movable part of the valve, determining the opening or closing of the outlet 401.

[0493] The thermostatic valve can be a valve with a liquid switching element. A liquid switching element is such as to be sensitive to the variation of volume of the liquid with the variation of the temperature (in its turn a function of the temperature of the inlet water) to determine a switching of the position of the movable equipment of the valve, determining the opening or closing of the outlet 401 .

[0494] The liquid switching element can be replaced with a gas switching element. Typically, the thermal inertia and / or reaction times of the valve decrease when switching from wax, to liquid and finally to gas.

[0495] Further types of thermostatic valve can be valves with shape memory element. The shape memory element is conveniently a metallic element, in particular realized in metallic alloy; the shape memory element can be placed in direct contact with the water or anyway with the liquid that flows in the flow control element 400. A non-limiting example of a shape memory metallic element comprises a Cu-Zn-AI or Cu-AI-Ni alloy. A further non-limiting example of a shape memory metallic element can comprise a Ni-Ti alloy.

[0496] A shape memory element can assume a first conformation and / or a first resistance to the deformation at a first temperature, and a second conformation and / or a second resistance to the deformation at a second temperature different from the first temperature. This shape memory element acts on the movable equipment of the valve to determine a switching between the closing and opening of the outlet 401 .

[0497] It is noted that in the embodiment shown in figure 6 and according to the diagram of figure 7, the outlet 401 is kept open as long as the temperature of the water is above switching threshold T 1 . When the temperature of the water at the inlet of the flow control element 400 falls below the switching threshold T1 , the outlet is automatically closed. The user therefore has not to act on the flow control element 400 to determine the opening or the closing of the outlet 401.

[0498] Thus, the crossing of the threshold in a first sense (upwards) causes an opening of the outlet 401. The crossing of the threshold in a second sense (downwards) determines a closing of the outlet 401 .

[0499] The flow control element 400 can also realize a pressure control valve, configured to determine the opening of its outlet only when the pressure of the fluid, in this case water, at its inlet exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0500] Figure 8 shows a pressure diagram as a function of time. Figure 8 identifies a pressure value P1 that identifies a switching threshold of pressure. Between time 0 and time t1 the pressure of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 is lower than the switching threshold P1 and the outlet 401 is closed. The water is not dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0501] At time t2 the pressure of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 reaches the switching threshold P1. The outlet 401 is open, and the water is dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0502] Therefore, the beginning of the dispensing of the beverage only begins after the reaching of the switching threshold P1. The above-mentioned pressure values can be used to define the pressure switching threshold.

[0503] The embodiment of figure 9 (active).

[0504] Figure 9 shows a further embodiment of the flow control element 400, this time of an active type.

[0505] The flow control element 400 is connected operatively, in particular electrically and / or optically, with a sensor 405 placed in correspondence of its inlet, or of the water supplying duct 122 or of the inlet duct 107 of the faucet 100.

[0506] The connection between the flow control element 400 and the sensor 405 takes place by means of a data processing unit 404 which is part of the dispensing device 108 or is a data processing unit of the faucet 100, also responsible for carrying out additional electronic controls, for example of the user interface 105. The sensor 405 is a sensor of electronic type destined to identify the pressure and / or the temperature of the water.

[0507] The sensor 405 transmits a signal to the data processing unit 404. This signal is proportional to the (measured) value of the measured characteristic of the water; for example, this signal is a signal proportional to the temperature value of the water or to the pressure value of the water.

[0508] The data processing unit 404, on the basis of the signal received by the sensor, transmits towards the flow control element 400 a control signal which determines the switching between the closing and the opening of the outlet

[0509] 401 so as to allow selectively the water supply towards the container for dispensing beverages.

[0510] The closing and the opening of the outlet take place in the modes already described above and are therefore not repeated. It is noted that the switching thresholds identified in the diagram of figure 7 (temperature threshold) and of figure 8 (pressure threshold) respectively concern temperature and pressure in this case electronically detected by the sensor 405.

[0511] It is noted that is convenient to position the sensor 405 in the place as close as possible to the flow control element 400. In fact, the greater the distance between the sensor 405 and the flow control element, the greater the risk of a temperature difference, in particular a decrease, between the temperature of the water measured by the sensor 405 and the temperature of the water actually present at the inlet of the flow control element 400.

[0512] Likewise, the greater the distance between the sensor 405 and the flow control element 400, the greater the risk of a pressure drop between the pressure measured by the sensor 405 and the pressure actually present at the inlet of the flow control element 400.

[0513] The proximity between the flow control element 400 and the sensor 405 ensures an appropriate timing of the opening of the outlet 401 only when the conditions are effectively appropriate.

[0514] The embodiment of figure 10 (first outlet and second outlet).

[0515] Figure 10 shows a further embodiment of the dispensing device 108 wherein the flow control element 400 comprises a first outlet 401 and a second outlet 402.

[0516] In this case, the flow control element 400 is configured to open or close the first outlet 401 in an alternative way with respect to the second outlet 402, to dispense the water on the first outlet 401 or alternatively on the second outlet

[0517] 402 according to the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water.

[0518] As will be better clarified in the following portion of the description, a particular embodiment of the flow control element 400 is configured to open or close automatically the first outlet 401 in an alternative way with respect to the second outlet 402, to dispense the water on the first outlet 401 or alternatively on the second outlet 402 according to the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water. Thanks to the automatic control of the opening or closing of the outlet, the user does not have to perform any specific action to determine the switching of the water dispensing from the first outlet to the second outlet and vice versa.

[0519] More in particular, the flow control element 400 is configured to open and keep open the first outlet 401 and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed the second outlet 402, or to open and keep open the second outlet 402 and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed the first outlet 401 , according to the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water.

[0520] In other terms, the flow control element 400 is configured to dispense the water on the first outlet 401 and at the same time prevent a dispensing of the water on the second outlet 402, or to dispense the water on the second outlet 402 and at the same time prevent a dispensing of the water on the first outlet 401 , in an automatic way according to the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water.

[0521] An embodiment of the flow control element 400 is configured to determine the switching of the opening between the first outlet 401 and the second outlet 402 in an almost instantaneous way, passing from a substantially maximum span opening of the first outlet 401 to the substantially maximum light opening of the span of the second outlet 402.

[0522] In the specific case of the embodiment of figure 10 the characteristic of the water is electronically identified by means of the sensor 405, the position thereof has already been previously described.

[0523] It is then clear that the present disclosure concerns a dispensing device 108 wherein the flow control element

[0524] 400 is configured to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, the first outlet 401 when the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water crosses the predefined switching threshold P1 , T1 In a first sense and as long as the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water does not cross again the predefined switching threshold P1 , T1 In a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0525] Figure 11 shows a further embodiment of the dispensing device 108 wherein the flow control element 400 comprises a first outlet 401 and a second outlet 402, and wherein the flow control element 400 is of passive type.

[0526] Figure 12 shows a temperature diagram as a function of time. Figure 12 identifies a temperature value T 1 that identifies a switching temperature threshold . Between time 0 and time t1 the temperature of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 is lower than the switching threshold T 1 and the first outlet

[0527] 401 is closed, while the second outlet 402 is open. The water is not dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190 because of the closing of the first outlet 401 , while it is dispensed in a discharge duct 199 connected to the second outlet 402.

[0528] At time t1 the temperature of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 reaches the switching threshold T1. The outlet 401 is open, and at the same time the second outlet 402 is closed, by effect of the movement of the movable equipment of the valve. The water is dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190. Then, independently on the actuation of the pump or of the valve that allows the water supply in the inlet duct 107, the beginning of the dispensing of the beverage takes place only after the reaching of the switching threshold T 1 . Temperature values previously mentioned can be used to define the temperature switching threshold.

[0529] It is noted that in the embodiment shown in figure 10 or 11 and according to the diagram of figure 12, the first outlet 401 is kept open and the second outlet 402 is kept closed as long as the temperature of the water is above the switching threshold T 1 . When the temperature of the water at the inlet of the flow control element 400 falls below the switching threshold T1, the first outlet 401 is automatically closed, and by effect of the movement of the movable equipment, the second outlet 402 is opened.

[0530] The user has then not to act on the flow control element 400 to determine the opening or closing of the first outlet 401 / second outlet 402.

[0531] Therefore, the crossing of the threshold in a first sense (upwards) determines the opening of the first outlet 401 and a corresponding and simultaneous closing of the second outlet 402. The crossing of the threshold in a second sense (downwards) determines the closing of the first outlet 401 and a corresponding and simultaneous opening of the second outlet 402.

[0532] As previously described, the flow control element 400 also when provided with first outlet 401 and second outlet 402, can realize a pressure control valve, configured to determine the opening of its outlet only when the pressure of the fluid, in this case water, at its inlet, exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0533] Figure 13 shows a pressure diagram as a function of time. Between time 0 and time t1 the pressure of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 is lower than the switching threshold P1 and the first outlet 401 is closed, while the second outlet 402 is open. The water is not dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190 because of the closing of the first outlet 401 , while it is dispensed in a discharge duct 199 connected to the second outlet 402.

[0534] At time t1 the pressure of the water in correspondence of the inlet of the flow control element 400 reaches the switching threshold P1. The outlet 401 is opened, and at the same time the second outlet 402 is closed, by effect of the movement of the movable equipment of the valve. The water is dispensed in the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0535] Therefore, the beginning of the dispensing of the beverage takes place only after the reaching of the switching threshold P1. Previously indicated pressure values can be used to define the pressure switching threshold.

[0536] In view of the above, it seems clear that the present disclosure concerns a dispensing device 108 that comprises a flow control element 400 configured to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, the first outlet 401 in an alternative way with respect to the second outlet 402, or to open and keep open the first outlet 401 and, at the same time, close and keep closed the second outlet 402, or to open and keep open the second outlet 402 and, at the same time, close and keep closed the first outlet 401 when the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water crosses a predefined switching threshold P1 , T1 in a first sense and as long as the at least one value of the at least one characteristic of the water does not cross gain the predefined switching threshold P1 , T1 in a second sense opposed to the first one.

[0537] Figure 14 shows a closed loop circuit that allows to realize an at least partial recirculation of the water present in the inlet duct 107 of the faucet 100.

[0538] Figure 14 in particular shows that in correspondence of the water supplying inlet 122 is present a branch that realizes a discharge duct 199, which diverts the water in an alternative direction with respect to the inlet of the flow control element 400.

[0539] The discharge duct 199 ends in correspondence of an inlet of a control valve 408, the outlet thereof is connected with an inlet of a pump 410, preferably of electric type and with automatic activation. A temperature sensor 409 is arranged in a section of duct connecting the outlet of the control valve 408 to the inlet of the pump 410.

[0540] Preferably, but non-limiting thereto, the pump 410 is a peristaltic type or gear pump, therefore a volumetric type pump.

[0541] The temperature sensor 409 is operatively connected, in particular electrically or optically connected, with the data processing unit 404.

[0542] The outlet of the pump 410 supplies an inlet of a one-way valve 411 ; the one-way valve 411 is configured to allow a flow from the inlet to the outlet and to prevent a reverse flow, from the outlet towards the inlet.

[0543] The outlet of the one-way valve 411 is connected to the inlet of the storage tank 412, and then supplies the water non-supplied to the inlet of the flow control element 400 to the storage tank 412 itself.

[0544] This technical characteristic allows to increase the thermic efficiency of the faucet as a whole. In fact, although it is possible that the hot water not supplied to the flow control element 400 is discharged into a discharge system, this solution is neither energetically nor environmentally efficient.

[0545] Conversely, re-introducing the unused hot water for the supply to the flow control element 400 back into the storage tank 412 - which already contains hot water in use - allows to avoid the dispersion of hot water potentially usable to dispense further beverages or for further purposes and increases the thermic efficiency.

[0546] As schematically represented in the figure 14, the storage tank 412 comprises a heater, preferably an electric heater, operatively controlled by the data processing unit 404.

[0547] A thermistor 413 is operatively active on the storage tank 412 and is operatively, preferably electrically or optically, connected with the data processing unit 404. The purpose of the thermistor 413 (for example, of NTC type), is to control the temperature of the water in the storage tank 412 and, as a function of this temperature, regulate the activation or deactivation or the power supplied, by the heater.

[0548] The water heated by the heater and contained in the storage tank 412 is in use supplied towards the inlet duct 107 of the faucet; it seems therefore clear that storage tank 4112 is placed upstream of the inlet duct 107. If the storage tank 412 is under pressure, between the outlet of the storage tank 412 and the inlet duct 107 of the faucet 100 can be present a valve, for example a solenoid valve, for the control of the water flow.

[0549] Otherwise, if the storage tank 412 is not under pressure, a pump will be able to pick up water from the storage tank 412 and supply it towards the inlet duct 107 of the faucet 100.

[0550] A different embodiment of closed loop circuit is represented in figure 15. This embodiment differs from the one above described in that the branch towards the discharge duct 199 is not located upstream of the flow control element 400 but is located on the second outlet 402.

[0551] The further components of the circuit are the same as those previously described, and therefore the description is not repeated.

[0552] The switching threshold of temperature T1 or of pressure P1 above described can be fixed, in particular pre-set at the factory and not modifiable by the user, or be variable. In an embodiment that should not be considered as limiting, said threshold can be set by the user by means of an action on the user interface 105. Alternatively, or in combination with the above, the switching threshold can be manually regulated directly on the flow control element 400.

[0553] Identification of the coupling between distributing body and supporting body.

[0554] A particular and non-limiting embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure is configured to identify if the distributing body 108a is coupled to the supporting body 108b and / or to acknowledge whether the container for dispensing beverages 190 is appropriately arranged within the cavity.

[0555] More in detail, this embodiment can be configured to identify if the distributing body 108a is in the assembled operative configuration such as to allow, for example by means of the locking of the bayonet fitting previously described, the dispensing of the beverage. In this embodiment, the flow control element 400 is configured to allow an opening of said first outlet 401 only if it is recognized the coupling between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b and / or if the container for dispensing beverages is appropriately arranged within said cavity 401 .

[0556] In order to carry out said identification, a control device is provided. This control device 222, 223 can be of a purely mechanical type, or of an electronic type, or a combined mechanical / electronic type.

[0557] If the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b are not coupled, and / or where there is not the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, even under conditions wherein the value of the at least one characteristic of the water crosses the predefined switching threshold P1, T1 , will not be possible in any case to proceed with the dispensing of the water through the first outlet 401 . Therefore, the dispensing through the first outlet 401 is subordinate to the presence of the distributing body 108a coupled to the supporting body 108b, and / or is subordinate to the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190. The present disclosure also concerns a particular embodiment of the dispensing device herein described. This embodiment is in particular destined to subordinate the possibility of dispensing water through the first outlet 401 of the flow control element 400 in accordance to the coupling between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b and / or to the operative coupling of the container for dispensing beverages 190 with the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, in particular to the interposition of the container for dispensing beverages 190 between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b. Then, at least for the period of time wherein the coupling is not identified between distributing body 108a and supporting body 108b, and / or for the period of time wherein the container for dispensing beverages 190 is not interposed between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, the first outlet 401 remains closed. If the flow control element 400 is provided with a second outlet, the flow of liquid, in particular of water, can conveniently be diverted on the second outlet 402, in the meantime. In the event that the flow control element 400 is provided with a single outlet, the flow of liquid, in particular of water, will be interrupted.

[0558] This embodiment can ignore the presence of a flow control element 400 specifically configured to open or close said first outlet 401 , respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet 401 according to at least one value of at least one characteristic of the water.

[0559] However, preferably the dispensing device 108 in this case comprises a flow control element 400 having the technical characteristics disclosed in the preceding paragraph.

[0560] In a non-limiting embodiment, electrical or magnetic contacts are arranged on the supporting body 108b and on the distributing body 108a to enable the identification of the coupling, and / or a movable element, for example translating, can be arranged in correspondence of the distributing body 108a and / or of the supporting body 108b to come into contact with the engaging portion 192 of the container for dispensing beverages 190 when introduced into the cavity. Such electrical or magnetic contacts and / or this movable element represent a non-limiting example of control device 222, 223, specifically configured to allow to identify if the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b are coupled and / or if there is the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0561] The magnetic contacts can be equivalently replaced by, or coupled with, elements suitable for determining an alteration of an electrical capacity if there is the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 interposed between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a, and / or upon an alteration of the coupling between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a.

[0562] Figure 19 shows a non-limiting embodiment of control device 222, 223 comprising magnetic and / or capacitive contacts and specifically destined to identify if the supporting body 108b and the dispensing body 108a are coupled.

[0563] The control device 222, 223 comprises in particular a first pair of magnetic and / or capacitive contacts 222 and a second pair of magnetic and / or capacitive contacts 223; the first pair of magnetic contacts 222 is arranged in correspondence of a peripheral surface of the distributing body 108a, while the second pair of magnetic contacts 223 is arranged in correspondence of a peripheral surface of the supporting body 108b.

[0564] When the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are coupled, the second pair of magnetic contacts 223 results superimposed and aligned with the first pair of magnetic and / or capacitive contacts 222. In this case the control device 222, 223 does not require substantially movable portions.

[0565] Some further examples of control device 222, 223 have substantially movable parts. A further embodiment provides in fact the presence of a switch with movable surface, destined to be moved when the supporting body 108b is coupled to the distributing body 108a, and / or to be moved when an appropriate container for dispensing beverages 190 is arranged in the housing cavity between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a.

[0566] Conveniently, in this case the control device 222, 223 has electrical contacts preferably connected to the data processing unit. For this reason, it is preferable that the control element 222 and 223 is arranged exclusively on the supporting body 108b: this technical solution allows to leave the distributing body 108a free of electrical contacts, and therefore of easier and cost-effective manufacturing.

[0567] In use, when the distributing body 108a is coupled to the supporting body 108b, and / or when the container for dispensing beverages 190 is operatively interposed between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, this coupling determines a movement of the movable surface of the control device 222, 223, and this movement causes a state switching of the control device.

[0568] The switching takes place between a first state, indicating an uncoupling of the supporting body 108b with respect to the distributing body 108a and / or indicating the absence of the container for dispensing beverages 190, and a second state, indicating the coupling of the supporting body 108b with respect to the distributing body 108a.

[0569] In particular, the switching takes place immediately upon uncoupling and / or when it is identified the absence of the container for dispensing beverages 190. This technical characteristic is important for determining an immediate stop to the dispensing of water, or in any case of liquid, when the above-described conditions take place. For example, in fact, should a user disconnect the supporting body 108b from the distributing body 108a during the dispensing, this user could be hit by a jet of liquid (water, in particular, and / or beverage) even at high temperature and / or pressure, directed in an uncontrolled manner and be subject to accident, for example by burn.

[0570] The switch can be normally closed or normally open. The normally closed switch is such that:

[0571] - when the distributing body 108a is coupled to the supporting body 108b, and / or when the container for dispensing beverages 190 is operatively interposed between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, its contacts are closed and,

[0572] - when the distributing body 108a is uncoupled from the supporting body 108b, and / or when the container for dispensing beverages 190 is removed from its position between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, its contacts are open.

[0573] The normally open switch is such that:

[0574] - when the distributing body 108a is coupled to the supporting body 108b, and / or when the container for dispensing beverages 190 is operatively interposed between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, its contacts are open and, - when the distributing body 108a is uncoupled from the supporting body 108b, and / or when the container for dispensing beverages 190 is removed from its position between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b, its contacts are closed.

[0575] A hierarchical control of the dispensing of the beverage, or more generally of the liquid dispensing, is advantageously made possible by the presence of control device 222, 223. In a specific embodiment, there is the presence of a primary hierarchical control and of a secondary hierarchical control.

[0576] The dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure is in this case configured to allow or prevent selectively the supply of liquid (in particular, water) towards the distributing body 108a and the corresponding dispensing portion 109 in the following way:

[0577] - according to said primary hierarchical control, by means of the control device 222, 223, configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container for dispensing beverages 190 operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body 108a and said supporting body 108b,

[0578] - according to a secondary hierarchical control, subordinate to the primary, allowing said flow control element 400 to open said first outlet 401 for selectively allowing the water supply towards the container for dispensing beverages 190 according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

[0579] As can be clearly seen from the preceding portion of the description, the primary hierarchical control is preferably a hierarchical control of electronic type, conveniently carried out by the data processing unit. In a specific embodiment, both the primary hierarchical control and the secondary hierarchical control are electronically carried out through the data processing unit. This is the case wherein the flow control element is a control element of substantially electronic type.

[0580] Finally, it is noted that although the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure has been described as associated with a faucet 100, this association shall not be intended in a limiting way; in fact, the dispensing device can be associated to a further type of hydrosanitary device, different with respect to a faucet.

[0581] The control device 222, 223, in particular when of electronic type, can be specifically configured to identify which type of container for dispensing beverages 190 is operatively coupled between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b.

[0582] Through the identification of the type of container for dispensing beverages 190, it can be possible to identify also the type of granulated contained in container for dispensing beverages 190, and therefore it can be possible to adapt the dispensing characteristics of the beverage in accordance to the type of container for dispensing beverages 190. Therefore, the control device 222, 223 herein described can be considered destined to identify the type of substance that is contained in the container for dispensing beverages 190, and this identification is an indirect identification.

[0583] The device object of the present disclosure is then configured to electronically identify, by means of said control device 222, 223, at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages among a plurality of types of container for dispensing beverages and / or, indirectly, at least one first type of substance (preferably, but non-limiting thereto, granular), among a plurality of types of substances, contained in said container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0584] This device is configured to regulate, preferably in an automatic way, a dispensing volume of the beverage and / or a dispensing volume of a liquid, in particular water, in the container for dispensing beverages 190, and / or at least one between a dispensing time of the liquid in the container for dispensing beverages 190, a temperature of the liquid that flows in the container for dispensing beverages 190, a pressure of the liquid that flows in the container for dispensing beverages 190, in accordance to the type of container for dispensing beverages.

[0585] The identification of the type of container for dispensing beverages 190 can take place in particular through at least one of the following modes:

[0586] - optical recognition of at least one between a color, size, graphic pattern, shape, weight of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages 190;

[0587] - radio frequency identification, by means of an RFID chip, preferably passive, of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0588] In particular, the graphic pattern of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages can be a QR code, or a bar code. Should the identification of the container for dispensing beverages 190 take place by measuring its weight, there shall be a specific sensor, preferably electronic, destined to measure the weight of the container for dispensing beverages, in particular when housed in the housing cavity.

[0589] For example, a first QR code can be used to identify the presence of tea (first type of substance) into the container for dispensing beverages 190, while a second QR code can be used to identify the presence of coffee (second type of substance) into the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0590] The temperature of the water that in use is made to flow inside the container for dispensing beverages 190, and then - indirectly - the temperature of the beverage, can be adapted by means of a temperature regulator as the one described herein.

[0591] A dispensing time of the beverage, and / or a dispensing time of the water that in use is made to flow inside the container for dispensing beverages 190, can be conveniently regulated by means of an opening / closing control of a solenoid valve located on the supply inlet 122 and / or by means of activation / deactivation of a pump operatively connected to the supplying inlet 122. The dispensing time indirectly determines the dispensing volume of the beverage.

[0592] Through the user interface 105 the user can confirm if the type of container for dispensing beverages 190 identified by the control device 222, 223 is correct, and therefore confirm electronically the corresponding dispensing volume. The data processing unit operatively connected to the user interface 105, after the confirmation, it determines the regulation of the valve and / or pump to dispense the predefined volume.

[0593] The device object of the present disclosure can be provided with a flow meter arranged on the supplying inlet 122 to determine the volume of water / beverage dispensed, in a direct way. The control of the dispensing pressure can be conveniently carried out by means of a regulation of an opening level of the above-mentioned solenoid valve and / or by means of a regulation of the speed of the pump.

[0594] When the control device identifies the presence of a particular type of container for dispensing beverages 190, the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure can be advantageously configured to impose a regulation of the dispensing characteristics of the beverage.

[0595] Preferably, although not limited thereto, the device object of the present disclosure can be configured to provide on a visual user interface a request of confirmation for the dispensing characteristics of the beverage before the effective dispensing. The user provides a confirmation by means of a control command represented by the user interface 105.

[0596] In a non-limiting embodiment, the chip RIFD can contain electronic data associated to a set of dispensing characteristics. This set is stored in a data processing unit of the dispensing device 108, or in a data processing unit of a device associated thereto.

[0597] The set of dispensing characteristics comprises data suitable for determining at least one between a predefined pressure of the water in use made to flow in said container for dispensing beverages 190, a temperature of the water in use made to flow in said container for dispensing beverages 190, a dispensing time of water within said container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0598] In this case there is a logical relation between the electronic data of the RFID chip and the stored set of dispensing characteristics.

[0599] In an embodiment alternative to the preceding one, this logical relation does not exist, because the set of dispensing characteristics is directly stored on the RFID chip.

[0600] In any case, it is intended that the dispensing characteristics of the beverage can still be altered by the user through appropriate commands, independently of what is acquired through the identification of the specific type of container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0601] In this regard, it shall be noted that the present disclosure shows a specific embodiment of a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary device, more preferably a faucet 100, more preferably a kitchen faucet, which first of all comprises a body 103 configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support 200, preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing spout 101 , in use dispensing water.

[0602] The device for distributing liquids comprises at least one first valve 104 connected to said dispensing spout 101 and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing spout 101 and a temperature of the water dispensed in use by the dispensing spout 101.

[0603] The device for distributing liquids comprises a dispensing device 108 for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, which comprises at least:

[0604] - a supporting body 108b; - a distributing body 108a connected to said supporting body 108b and comprising a dispensing portion 109 configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage.

[0605] In this dispensing device 108, at least one between the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0606] The supporting body 108b comprises a water supplying inlet 122 configured to receive water from a supplying duct 107.

[0607] The dispensing device 108 has:

[0608] - an assembled operative configuration, wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are coupled to allow a dispensing of the beverage making the water flow from the water supplying inlet 122, into the container for dispensing beverages 190, and towards said dispensing portion 109; and

[0609] - a disassembled operative configuration, wherein the supporting body 108b and the distributing body 108a are uncoupled and allow an access to the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0610] The liquid dispensing device comprises a user interface 105 preferably of electronic type.

[0611] The user interface 105 is configured to allow to select the dispensing of a beverage through the dispensing device 108. In use the user - with a movement, for example of a roto-translatory type, on an actuation command of the user interface 105 - selects the dispensing of the beverage that he desires.

[0612] By means of the actuation, the user interface 105 determines the activation of at least one between a pump or a valve for the introduction of water, or liquid, in the supplying duct 107 and / or in the supplying inlet 122.

[0613] In particular, the user interface 105 is configured to determine a timed dispensing and / or is configured to allow a selection of at least one first dispensing volume, preferably a plurality of dispensing volumes.

[0614] The at least one first dispensing volume, or said plurality of dispensing volumes, are electronically calculated by the device herein described, and / or determined and / or electronically associated to at least one first predefined type of container 800 and / or to at the least one first type of container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0615] It is then clear that the user interface 105 is configured to allow a variation of said at least one first dispensing volume, according to a type of said container 800, and / or according to the at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages 190 identified by means of the control device 222, 223.

[0616] A further embodiment of the device object of the present disclosure comprises a control device 222, 223 that is specifically configured to electronically identify a type of container for dispensing beverages among a plurality of types of container for dispensing beverages, and to regulate a volume of dispensing of said beverage, and / or a volume of dispensing of water flowing into the container for dispensing beverages 190 and / or at least one between a time of dispensing of said water in said container for dispensing beverages 190, a temperature of said water, a pressure of said water, according to said type of container for dispensing beverages. Optionally, the control device 222, 223 can be configured to identify the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 as previously described.

[0617] First temperature regulator.

[0618] Optionally, the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure can comprise a first temperature regulator, preferably of electric type. The first temperature regulator is then of active type, i.e. capable of forcing a change or maintenance of a determined temperature by means of an energy contribution from an outer source.

[0619] The first temperature regulator is preferably operatively connected to the data processing unit 404. The first temperature regulator can be conveniently arranged in correspondence of the water supplying inlet 122 and / or of the supplying duct 107. The first temperature regulator, therefore, is conveniently arranged upstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0620] The presence of the first temperature regulator is possible also where the device object of the present disclosure dose not supply water, but generic liquids, and therefore if the water supplying inlet is a generic liquids supplying inlet.

[0621] The first temperature regulator is so called because a particular embodiment of the device object of the present disclosure is also provided with a second temperature regulator. If only the first temperature regulator is present, or if it is desired to define the technical function of the first temperature regulator through the name, this first temperature regulator can be called pre-treatment temperature regulator.

[0622] The purpose of the first temperature regulator is to provide a heating or cooling of the water that is present in correspondence of the water supplying inlet 122 and / or of the supplying duct 107, and then upstream of the container for dispensing beverages 199 and of the distributing body 108a.

[0623] The first temperature regulator is installed upstream of the flow regulator 400, in particular upstream of the inlet of the flow regulator 400. Conveniently, the first temperature regulator is installed in proximity of the flow regulator, in particular in proximity of the inlet of the flow regulator 400.

[0624] The technical effect provided by the first temperature regulator is to allow - if required - a rapid reaching of an optimal water temperature; this rapid reaching can, in turn, promote the crossing of the predefined temperature threshold necessary to determine the opening of the outlet 401 .

[0625] Therefore, if present, the first temperature regulator cooperates to speed up the opening of the outlet 401 .

[0626] In a first embodiment, the first temperature regulator comprises an electrical resistance placed inside the duct wherein, in use, flows the water destined to the production of the beverage.

[0627] In a second embodiment, the first temperature regulator comprises an electrical resistor placed on the outside of said duct. In both cases, the electrical resistor is electrically isolated from the water that is made to flow in the duct in order to produce the beverage.

[0628] The electrical resistor comprises a resistive element properly said and an insulating, impermeable, sheath.

[0629] However, the embodiment wherein the electrical resistance is placed on the outside of the duct is such that there is a lower risk of electrical contact between the resistive element properly said and the water if the insulating sheath should fail.

[0630] Figure 16 shows a particular example of first temperature regulator, that is associated to the supplying duct 107 and / or to the water supplying inlet 122. This associated heater is schematically indicated with the reference number 900.

[0631] The first temperature regulator comprises a resistive element 901 surrounding the supplying duct 107 and / or the water supplying inlet 122 and also comprises a sheath 902 for said resistive element. The sheath 902 is electrically insulating.

[0632] The first temperature regulator 900 comprises also a casing 904 for at least part of the supplying duct 107 and / or for the water supplying inlet 122. The casing 904 defines a chamber 905 substantially closed surrounding on its entire lateral surface at least part of the supplying duct 107 and / or the water supplying inlet 122.

[0633] The chamber 905 is preferably filled with a thermally conductive fluid, for example glycol, for example and in a non-limiting extent propylene glycol.

[0634] From figure 16 it is noted that the sheath 902 of the resistive element 901 is positioned at a predetermined distance from the supplying duct 107 and / or from the water supplying inlet 122. Therefore, in the embodiment of figure 16, the resistive element 901 and the sheath 902 are not in direct contact with the supplying duct 107 and / or with the water supplying inlet 122.

[0635] If it is present a closed circuit of partial recirculation of the water or in any case of the liquid, as herein described, conveniently the first temperature regulator is placed downstream of the storage tank 412 or downstream of the pump 412 or of the one-way valve 411 , and is conveniently interposed between at least one of the above-mentioned devices and the water supplying inlet 122.

[0636] In an embodiment, in use the first temperature regulator is activated operatively together with the flow control element 400. If the flow control element 400 is electronically controlled, the flow control element 400 and the first temperature regulator are simultaneously controlled by the data processing unit, and then the first temperature regulator 900 actively cooperates with, and is at least temporarily activated in substantial temporal simultaneity with, the sensor 405, the data processing unit and the flow control element 400.

[0637] In particular, should a closed loop as previously described be present, the water (or more generally, the liquid) that flows in the supplying duct 107 is forced into circulation, for example by the pump 410. The flow control element 400 deviates the water (or more generally, the liquid) towards the second outlet 402, for allowing the circulation in the loop.

[0638] Progressively, the temperature is varied by the first temperature regulator 900. This variation of the temperature causes a crossing of the temperature threshold of the water (or more generally, of the liquid) so as to determine a switching of the opening of the outlet of the flow control element, from the second outlet 402 to the first outlet 401 .

[0639] A further example of first temperature regulator 900 can be a Peltier cell. The advantage of using a first temperature regulator 900 as a Peltier cell is to allow a heating or cooling of the water, or more generally of the liquid, which is supplied in use to the flow regulator 400, with a single device.

[0640] The data processing unit can be configured to cause the activation of the first temperature regulator 900 when the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 is identified, and / or when the dispensing device 108 is in the assembled operative configuration.

[0641] In particular, the data processing unit can be configured to cause an automatic and immediate activation of the first temperature regulator 900 when it is identified the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 and / or when the dispensing device 108 is in the assembled operative configuration.

[0642] The data processing unit can also be configured to cause an automatic and immediate activation of the first temperature regulator 900 when it is identified the presence of the final container 800.

[0643] The data processing unit can be configured to cause an automatic and immediate deactivation of the first temperature regulator 900 when at least one of the following conditions applies:

[0644] - the dispensing of the beverage is ended, for example because the predetermined dispensing volume or dispensing time has been reached;

[0645] - the dispensing device 108 passes from the assembled operative configuration to the disassembled operative configuration;

[0646] - the flow control element 400 switches by closing the first outlet 401 ,

[0647] - the final container 800 is removed from the dispensing plate 108c.

[0648] The definition of a particular strategy for controlling the activation of the first temperature regulator 900 allows to optimize the energy consumption of the dispensing device 108 and / or of the device for distributing liquids herein described. In fact, the first temperature regulator 900 absorbs electrical energy (directly or indirectly) during its operation. The control, in particular automatic, carried out by means of the data processing unit advantageously relieves the user from the need to actively control the supply or depowering of the first temperature regulator 900.

[0649] Advantageously, the use of the first temperature regulator 900 allows, for example, a heating, a cooling, or a maintenance of a determined level of heating or cooling of the liquid placed in its proximity, without, for example, the need to empty the liquid supplying duct 122 and / or without the need to empty the inlet duct 107. This operation could also cause significant problems in the dispensing, as it could promote the passage of air bubbles, with the consequent risk of damage to parts of the distributing device 108 and / or of the device for distributing liquids associated thereto.

[0650] Application of the flow control element to a device for distributing liquids

[0651] It is also noted that the flow control functions provided by the flow control element 400 described in association to the dispensing device 108 specifically destined to dispense beverages from a container for dispensing beverages 190, can also be applied to a hydrosanitary device and, more generally, to a device for distributing liquids.

[0652] It seems then clear that the present disclosure shows a device for distributing liquids, preferably a hydrosanitary.

[0653] In a non-limiting embodiment, the hydrosanitary is a faucet, in particular a kitchen faucet. Alternatively, this device for distributing liquids can be a bathroom device, for example a shower device. It is intended that the device for distributing liquids object of the present disclosure can also be any further type of device suitable for being installed in a fixed or movable way on a supporting surface.

[0654] The device for distributing liquids comprises a water supplying inlet 122 and a portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing, and that comprises a flow control element 400 having at least one first inlet supplied from said water supplying inlet 122 and at least one first outlet 401 configured to supply water to said portion of liquids distribution and / or dispensing.

[0655] The flow control element 400 of the device for distributing liquids is configured to allow or prevent the water supply towards the portion of water dispensing and / or distribution, opening or closing said at least one first outlet, according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic of said liquids.

[0656] The further characteristics of the flow control element 400 have already been previously described and therefore will not be repeated herein in their entirety.

[0657] A specific embodiment of the hydrosanitary device comprises a faucet, but this faucet is not provided with the previously discussed dispensing device 108. In particular, the faucet can be configured to dispense, under control of the user interface 105 already described, the dispensing of boiling water or at a determined pressure, on its portion of liquids dispensing and / or distribution, which can conveniently comprise an orientable dispensing mouth.

[0658] A further embodiment of the device for distributing liquids is a pure beverage dispensing device, for example an alcoholic beverage dispensing device, in particular beer, for example added with a further substance such as a carbonated beverage. In this case, the flow control element 400 can be installed in correspondence of a branch supplying the carbonated beverage to the beer and can conveniently be configured to determine an opening of the outlet 401 only when the temperature of the carbonated beverage falls to a value equal to or lower than 6°C.

[0659] It is in particular intended that the characteristics offered by the flow control element 400 with regard to the possibility of performing an at least partial recirculation of the liquid in a closed loop circuit, are to be intended as provided also for a generic liquids dispensing device, in particular a hydrosanitary device. Finally, it should be noted that the present disclosure shows also an embodiment of the dispensing device 108 not specifically conceived to be coupled to a container for dispensing beverages.

[0660] Specifically, such embodiment of dispensing device 108 comprises:

[0661] - a supporting body 108b;

[0662] - a distributing body 108a connected to the supporting body 108b and comprising a dispensing portion 109 configured to allow a dispensing of a liquid; wherein:

[0663] - the supporting body 108b comprises a water supplying inlet 122 configured to receive water from a supplying duct 107.

[0664] The present embodiment of the dispensing device 108 comprises at least one flow control element 400 operatively connected to the supporting body 108b, and receiving in use water from the supplying duct 107.

[0665] The flow control element 400 has at least one first inlet supplied by the water supplying inlet 122 and at least one first outlet 401 configured to dispense the liquid.

[0666] The flow control element 400 is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply towards said at least one first outlet 401 according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said liquid.

[0667] The liquid can preferably comprise water or a beverage comprising water and, specifically the dispensing device herein described is destined to dispense beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, and is preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a liquids dispensing device, preferably a faucet 100 for dispensing water.

[0668] Dispensing in accordance with the presence of the final container

[0669] A particular embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure is configured to allow the dispensing of the beverage only if it is identified the presence of the cup, and more generally of the final container 800.

[0670] In such embodiment, the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure comprises a flow control element 400 operatively connected to the supporting body 108b, and receiving in use water from the supplying duct 107, and also comprises at least one presence sensor 801 , 802.

[0671] The presence sensor 801 , 802 is configured to identify a presence of the final container 800 and is operatively connected (electrically, and / or optically, by means of the data processing unit) to the flow control element 400.

[0672] In light of the preceding paragraph, it is clear that the operative connection established between the presence sensor 801, 802 and the flow control element 400 can be direct or indirect. The presence sensor 801 , 802 in use transmits a presence signal (preferably, an electronic signal) having at least:

[0673] - a first state, indicative of a presence of the final container 800;

[0674] - a second state, indicative of an absence of the final container 800.

[0675] Also in this embodiment, the flow control element 400 has a first inlet supplied by the water supplying inlet 120 and at least one first outlet 401 through which, in use, the water is supplied to said supporting body 108b and / or to said distributing body 108a, and therefore is supplied to the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0676] However, in this embodiment, the presence (or the absence) of the final container 800 determine a primary hierarchy role for establishing whether the device object of the present disclosure can dispense the beverage or whether, on the contrary, the dispensing is prevented.

[0677] In particular, the flow control element 400 is configured to allow the water supply towards the container for dispensing beverages 190 when the presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the water supply towards the container for dispensing beverages 190 when the presence signal is in said second state.

[0678] In particular, the final container 800 must be arranged in a predefined position with respect to said dispensing portion 109. This predefined position can be advantageously defined by the dispensing plate 108c.

[0679] Therefore, in an embodiment, the first state is indicative of the presence of the final container 800 in said predefined position on the dispensing plate 108c, and said second state is indicative of the absence of the final container 800 in the predefined position on the dispensing plate 108c.

[0680] The final container 800 can be conveniently positioned in a first predefined position and in a second predefined position, both valid for allowing a dispensing of the beverage through the dispensing device object of the present disclosure. This can be convenient for example due to the existence of various typologies or forms of final container 800 within which the dispensing device herein described can validly dispense a beverage.

[0681] In this case, therefore, the presence sensor shall be able to identify the presence of a first predefined position and of a second predefined position for the final container 800.

[0682] Where the conditions of the preceding paragraph are met, is then clear that the first state is indicative of the presence of the final container 800 in the first predefined position or in the second predefined position, and the second state is indicative of the fact that the final container 800 is in a different position with respect to the first position or the second position.

[0683] In an embodiment, the flow control element 400 can simply act as an ON-OFF valve (single inlet, single outlet) for controlling the dispensing of the beverage according to the presence or absence of the final container 800, and have no control function with secondary hierarchy according to a value assumed by at least one characteristic of the water. In a further embodiment, more complex, the flow control element 400 is also configured to selectively allow or prevent the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages 190 according to a value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water, subordinately to said presence signal in said first state.

[0684] In this embodiment, for example, if the presence signal is in the second state, independently of the value assumed by the characteristic of the water, the beverage cannot be dispensed (the first outlet 401 remains permanently closed). If, on the other hand, the presence signal is in the first state, then:

[0685] - when the at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold P1, T1, it will be possible to dispense the beverage by making the water flow through the container for dispensing beverages 190;

[0686] - if the at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross the predefined switching threshold P1 , T1 , the dispensing of the beverage will be prevented.

[0687] Some embodiments may provide for the dispensing of the beverage according to a crossing sense of the predefined switching threshold P1, T1 ; the specificities of this technical characteristic have already been previously described and therefore are not repeated herein.

[0688] Figure 1 shows in a schematic way the presence of a first presence sensor 801 of optical type, located for example on the body 103 of the faucet, and of a second presence sensor 802 in shape of weight sensor (load cell sensor), positioned in correspondence of the dispensing plate 108c.

[0689] An embodiment comprises a first presence sensor 801 arranged in a fixed position on the body 103 of the faucet, while a further embodiment comprises a first presence sensor 801 installed in a movable way on the body of the faucet.

[0690] Preferably, both the presence sensors 801 , 802 are operatively connected to the data processing unit and transmit to it an appropriate control signal (electrical signal, optical signal) which is indicative at least of the presence or absence of the final container 800 but which can also be indicative of the quantity of beverage that is progressively introduced into the final container 800.

[0691] The second presence sensor 802 can also perform the technical function of (indirectly) identifying a volume of beverage effectively dispensed in the final container 800.

[0692] At the beginning of the dispensing of the beverage, or before the dispensing of the beverage, the second presence sensor 802 measures a weight of the final container 800.

[0693] During the dispensing of the beverage, the final container 800 progressively fills up, and its weight measured by the second presence sensor 802 progressively increases. It then seems clear that an embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure comprises a load cell sensor that is configured not only to identify the presence or the absence of the final container 800, but also to identify a first weight and a second weight of the final container 800, wherein the first and the second weight take into account a first volume of beverage, and respectively, of a second volume of beverage contained in the final container.

[0694] The presence sensor 802 constantly measures the weight of the final container 800 including the beverage contained therein, and sends a presence signal which contains a weight data.

[0695] The weight data can be a relative weight data Wr, i.e. an absolute weight data Wa of the final container 800 with the beverage contained therein, from which a tare weight data Wb corresponding to the weight of the final container 800 before the arrival of the beverage is subtracted.

[0696] This relative weight data can be compared with a threshold Th corresponding to a dispensed volume of beverage. This threshold can be conveniently determined taking into account the specific weight of the water.

[0697] If the relative weight data Wr is equal to or greater than the threshold (Wr>=Th), then the dispensing of water within the container for dispensing beverages 190 is stopped in an automatic way, since this condition indicates the reaching of the required volume of beverage.

[0698] Otherwise, where and as long as the relative weight Wr is lower than the threshold (Wr<Th), the dispensing of water into the container for dispensing beverages 190 is kept.

[0699] Generally, the technical characteristic of detecting the amount of liquid contained inside the final container 800 is not only performable by the load cell sensor. In fact, in particular if the final container 800 is transparent or translucid, it is also possible that it is the optical sensor that can determine the quantity of beverage contained in the final container 800, and be thus the technical element through which, once a determined level of beverage has been reached in the final container 800, the interruption of the dispensing of the beverage is determined.

[0700] Heating or cooling of the dispensing portion

[0701] A peculiar embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure is characterized in that it comprises a second temperature regulator 109z, placed downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0702] The second temperature regulator can be also named post-treatment temperature regulator.

[0703] The second temperature regulator 109z is configured to force the reaching of a predetermined temperature for at least one element, and then for the beverage, downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190, and / or is configured to keep a predetermined temperature on said element and then on said beverage, downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0704] More specifically, the second temperature regulator 109z can be configured to heat or cool the beverage, or to keep the beverage at least at a first predetermined temperature, optionally at least in a predetermined range of temperatures, in particular at at least one first predetermined heating or cooling temperature or in a predetermined range of heating or cooling temperatures. Alternatively to the configuration wherein the second temperature regulator 109z is arranged downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190, in a further embodiment this second temperature regulator 109z can be arranged in correspondence of the container for dispensing beverages 190, and in particular be arranged in proximity to, or inside, or immediately outside, the housing cavity of the container for dispensing beverages 190. In this case the second temperature regulator can be favorably configured to heat or cool the container for dispensing beverages 190, or to keep the container for dispensing beverages 190 at least at a first predetermined temperature, optionally at least in a predetermined range of temperatures, in particular at at least one first predetermined heating or cooling temperature or in a predetermined range of heating or cooling temperatures.

[0705] In particular, the second temperature regulator 109z can be configured to:

[0706] - further heat the already hot beverage by injecting hot water into the container for dispensing beverages 190;

[0707] - cool a hot beverage by injecting cold water into the container for dispensing beverages 190;

[0708] - heat a cold beverage by injecting hot water into the container for dispensing beverages 190;

[0709] - further cool the already cold beverage by injecting cold water into the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0710] It is therefore clear that a specific embodiment of the dispensing device 108 object of the present disclosure is such that the second temperature regulator 109z operatively cooperates with the first temperature regulator 900 to define a dispensing temperature of the beverage.

[0711] In a non-limiting embodiment, the second temperature regulator 109z is placed in correspondence of the dispensing portion 109. For example, the second temperature regulator 109z can be placed in substantial correspondence of an outer surface of the dispensing portion 109; in a further embodiment, the second temperature regulator 109z can be arranged in substantial correspondence of an entire surface of the dispensing portion 109. It has therefore been conceived an embodiment wherein the second temperature regulator 109z regulates the temperature of the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190 in a direct way, and has also been conceived an embodiment wherein the second temperature regulator 109z regulates the temperature of the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190 in an indirect way.

[0712] The dispensing portion 109 comprises a dispensing cavity 190w of the beverage, that is operatively located downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190 and in particular of the striking surface for the container for dispensing beverages 190. The dispensing cavity 109w of the beverage is connected with a dispensing orifice 109k.

[0713] Various technologies can be used to realize the second temperature regulator 109z. A particular technology comprises the use of Peltier cells, and is therefore a technology that uses a second temperature regulator 109z of electrical type.

[0714] Electrical contacts can be arranged in correspondence of contact surfaces between the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b; these electrical contacts are obviously uncoupled when the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b are in disassembled operative configuration, and are instead coupled when the distributing body 108a and the supporting body 108b are in the assembled operative configuration.

[0715] The electrical contacts are destined to transmit electrical energy to the Peltier cell to heat or cool it.

[0716] The Peltier cell, or more generally further examples of second temperature regulator 109z are conveniently operatively (electrically, and / or optically) connected with the data processing unit, optionally by means of a power supply.

[0717] The electrical power supplied to the Peltier cell can be uninterruptedly varied between a first minimum value (optionally zero) and a second maximum value. This technical characteristic allows to precisely regulate the heat or cold supply provided, directly or indirectly, downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0718] In an embodiment, furthermore, for example by means of the data processing unit, the second temperature regulator 109z can be activated in a continuous or discontinuous way. This technical characteristic, which can be present in combination with, or as an alternative to, the technical characteristic of the regulatability of the electrical power supplied to the Peltier cell and, more generally, to the second temperature regulator 109z, is destined to allow a further possibility of precise regulation of the temperature of the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190.

[0719] Optionally, the data processing unit can simultaneously control the electrical power fed to the second temperature regulator 109z with the electrical power fed to the first temperature regulator 900; these two temperature regulating elements can be activated in a temporally disjoint way (first one, then the other), in a substantially simultaneous way (the ON / OFF times are coinciding for the first and second temperature regulators), or in a partially simultaneous way (the ON / OFF times are not coinciding for the first and the second temperature regulator).

[0720] A further embodiment comprises a second temperature regulator 109z, always of active type, in form of refrigeration circuit; for example, this refrigeration circuit can be fixedly installed on the supporting body 108b, and be destined, however, to act on the distributing body 108a, and in particular on the dispensing portion 109 thereof. This solution can be conveniently implemented where there is a partial overlapping and / or insertion of the supporting body 108b on the distributing body 108a (or vice versa), at least in the assembled operative configuration.

[0721] In an embodiment, in particular where there is the presence of the second temperature regulator 109z, the dispensing portion 109 can be realized in metallic material, in order to promote a heat exchange with the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190; this technical solution can be conveniently implemented, for example, where the second temperature regulator 109z is located on the outside of the dispensing portion 109.

[0722] Where the second temperature regulator 109z is located within the dispensing portion 109, the latter can advantageously be realized in plastic material.

[0723] As schematically represented in figure, the second temperature regulator 109z can be provided with a flapped surface, arranged in the dispensing cavity 109w of the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190, to increase the heat exchange with the beverage downstream of the container for dispensing beverages 190. This flapped surface can identify a tortuous path destined to increase the contact time with the second temperature regulator 109z, so as to promote the heat exchange with the beverage.

[0724] The data processing unit can be configured to cause the activation of the second temperature regulator 109z when it is identified the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190, and / or when the dispensing device 108 is in the assembled operative configuration.

[0725] In particular, the data processing unit can be configured to cause an automatic and immediate activation of the second temperature regulator 109z when the presence of the container for dispensing beverages 190 is detected and / or when the dispensing device 108 is in the assembled operative configuration.

[0726] The data processing unit can also be configured to cause an automatic and immediate activation of the second temperature regulator 109z when the presence of the final container 800 is detected.

[0727] The data processing unit can be configured to cause an automatic and immediate deactivation of the second temperature regulator 109z when at least one of the following conditions applies:

[0728] - the dispensing of the beverage is ended, for example because it has been reached the predetermined dispensing volume or dispensing time;

[0729] - the dispensing device 108 passes from the assembled operative configuration to the disassembled operative configuration;

[0730] - the flow control element 400 switches by closing the first outlet 401 ,

[0731] - the final container 800 is removed from the dispensing plate 108c.

[0732] The definition of a particular control strategy of the activation of the second temperature regulator 109z allows to optimize the energy consumption of the dispensing device 108 and / or of the device for distributing liquids herein described. In fact, the second temperature regulator 109z absorbs electric energy (directly or indirectly) during its operation. The control, in particular automatic, carried out by means of the data processing unit advantageously relieves the user from the need to actively control the supply or depowering of the first temperature regulator 109z.

[0733] The data processing unit can be configured to control in a preferably automatic way a temporally synchronized activation of the first temperature regulator 900 and of the second temperature regulator 109z.

[0734] In particular, defined an activation time period of the first temperature regulator (first time period) wherein the first temperature regulator 900 is activated, and defined an activation time period of the second temperature regulator (second time period) wherein the second temperature regulator 109z is activated, the data processing unit can be configured to:

[0735] - superimpose the first time period and the second time period so that an initial instant and an ending instant of the first time period are coincident with an initial instant and an ending instant of the second time period;

[0736] - firstly activate the first temperature regulator 900, in one of the two following modes: - the initial instant of the first time period precedes the initial instant of the second time period, and the ending instant of the first time period precedes or is equal to the ending instant of the second time period;

[0737] - the initial instant of the first time period precedes the initial instant of the second time period, and the ending instant of the first time period follows the ending instant of the second time period; - the initial instant of the first time period follows the initial instant of the second time period, and the ending instant of the first time period precedes or is equal to the ending instant of the second time period;

[0738] - the initial instant of the first time period follows the initial instant of the second time period, and the ending instant of the first time period follows the ending instant of the second time period.

[0739] The invention is not limited to the embodiments of the figures; for this reason, the numbers and reference signs in the claims are provided for the sole purpose of increasing their intelligibility, and have a non-limiting effect.

[0740] It is finally clear that to the object of the present disclosure can be applied additions, modifications or variants, obvious for a skilled person, without for this departing from the scope provided by the attached claims.

Claims

1. Claims1. Dispensing device (108) for beverages extracted from containers for dispensing beverages, preferably configured to, and specifically destined to, be coupled to a faucet (100) for water dispensing; the dispensing device (108) comprising:- a supporting body (108b);- a distributing body (108a) connected to said supporting body (108b) and comprising a dispensing portion (109) configured to allow a dispensing of a beverage; wherein:- at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to retain and / or contain at least part of a container for dispensing beverages (190);- said supporting body (108b) comprises a water supplying inlet (122) configured to receive water from a supplying duct (107);- said dispensing device (108) comprises at least one flow control element (400) operatively connected to said supporting body (108b), and receiving in use water from said supplying duct (107); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

2. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 1 , wherein said supporting body (108b) is configured to be coupled to, or to be integral part of, a body (103) of a faucet (100) for water dispensing and said supplying duct (107) is a supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100) and / or wherein said distributing body (108a) is solidly connected to said supporting body (108b) or is movably or removably mounted on said supporting body (108b), and wherein said at least one first outlet (401) is configured to supply water to said container for dispensing beverages (190) when, preferably only when, retained and / or contained by, or in, said supporting body (108b) and / or said distributing body (108a), and wherein at least one between said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) is configured to removably retain and / or contain, optionally operatively removably, at least part of said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or to be removably coupled to said container for dispensing beverages (190),preferably wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively and automatically the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) according to said at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

3. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said container for dispensing beverages (190) is consumable and / or refillable, and wherein the dispensing portion (109) is configured to allow a dispensing of said beverage in a container (800) destined to allow the ingestion of the beverage by a user, in particular an final container destined to allow the ingestion of the beverage by a user, and wherein the flow control element (400) is configured to open or close the first outlet (401) respectively to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or wherein the flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively, preferably automatically, the water supply to said supporting body (108b) and / or toward said distributing body (108a) according to at least one value assumed by said at least one characteristic of said water.

4. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said flow control element(400) comprises a second outlet (402) connected with a discharge duct (199), wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way, and preferably automatic, with respect to said second outlet (402), to dispense said water on said first outlet (401) or alternatively on said second outlet (402), preferably to allow or prevent selectively the water supply to said container for dispensing beverages (190), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water, preferably said flow control element (400) being configured to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time and preferably automatically, close and keep closed said first outlet(401), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water; or preferably said flow control element (400) being configured to dispense said water on said first outlet (401) and at the same time prevent a dispensing of said water on said second outlet (402), or to dispense said water on said second outlet (402) and at the same time prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet (401), in an automatic way according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water; said at least one characteristic of said water being at least a temperature and / or a pressure; said flow control element (400) being preferably of one-way type, configured to prevent a reflux of water from said first outlet (401) and / or from said second outlet (402) toward said inlet.

5. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the said flow control element is a passive control element, and / or comprises a thermostatic valve, preferably a valve with shape memory actuator or a valve with wax or fluid or gas actuator; wherein said thermostatic valve, preferably said shape memory actuator or with wax or fluid or gas actuator, is configured to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water.

6. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said flow control element (400) is an active control element, preferably an electronically controlled one, wherein said dispensing device (108) is operatively connected with, optionally comprises, at least one sensor (405) configured to detect said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water; wherein said sensor (405) is an electronic sensor; wherein said sensor is operatively coupled to, optionally arranged on or in, said supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100) or said water supplying inlet (122) or said inlet of said flow control element (400); and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to receive a signal, preferably an electronic signal, from said sensor (405), and wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401), according to said signal.

7. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, operatively connected with, or comprising, a data processing unit (404) configured at least to receive said signal from said sensor (405); said data processing unit (404) comprising a control output upon which a control signal is transmitted determining, in use, a movement of a movable element of said flow control element (400) to open or close said first outlet (401), or to open or close said first outlet (401) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401).

8. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said flow control element (400) is configured:- to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401 ) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one;- to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401 ) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401 ) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one.

9. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) is a switching threshold determined as a function of a preparation of a beverage, and / or is settable by a user.

10. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said flow control element (400) is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100), preferably through at least one among a storage tank (412), a heater, a pump (410), a one-way valve (411 ) and a control valve (408), preferably wherein said second outlet (402) and / or said discharge duct is connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct of said faucet (100), preferably said closed loop allowing of realizing an at least partial recirculation of the water present in the supplying duct (107).11 . Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said dispensing device (108) has:- an assembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are coupled to allow a dispensing of said beverage making said water flow from said water supplying inlet (122), into said container for dispensing beverages (190), and towards said dispensing portion (109);- a disassembled operative configuration, wherein said supporting body (108b) and said distributing body (108a) are uncoupled and allow an access to said container for dispensing beverages (190).

12. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said distributing body (108a) is configured to be removably connected to said supporting body (108b) by means of a translatory coupling, or by means of a rotatory coupling, or by means of a bayonet coupling and / or by means of a roto-translatory coupling, wherein said roto-translatory coupling comprises:- a substantially translatory movement axial along a coupling axis (Z) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), and- a substantially rotatory movement (A) of said distributing body (108a) with respect to said supporting body (108b), said substantially rotatory movement being axial to said coupling axis (Z).

13. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, configured to identify, preferably automatically, a coupling between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), preferably to identify, optionally automatically, the existence of said assembled operative configuration, and / or the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) and to allow an opening of said first outlet (401) only when there is said coupling between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), preferably said assembled operative configuration, and / or when there is the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

14. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a first temperature regulator (900), of active type, operatively coupled to at least one between said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107) and / or arranged upstream of said flow regulator (400) to heat or cool the water, or to force a maintaining of a predetermined temperature of the water, in use contained in said water supplying inlet (122) and said supplying duct (107) and / or upstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190).

15. Device according to claim 14, wherein said first temperature regulator (900) is an active temperature controller, preferably of electric type, optionally wherein said dispensing device (108) is configured to activate said at least first temperature regulator (900) in substantial temporal simultaneity with said flow regulator (400).

16. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, comprising a control device (222, 223) configured to identify said assembled operative configuration, and / or to identify the presence of a container fordispensing beverages (190) operatively coupled to, in particular interposed between, said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b), and is configured to allow said flow control element (400) to open said first outlet (401) when said control device (222, 223) identifies said assembled operative configuration and / or identifies the presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b).

17. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 16, wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow or prevent selectively the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably to open or close said first outlet (401), respectively to allow or prevent a dispensing of said water on said first outlet (401) according to at least one value of at least one characteristic of said water, preferably subordinately to the identification of said assembled operative configuration and / or of said presence of said container for dispensing beverages (190) interposed between said distributing body (108a) and said supporting body (108b) by said control element (222, 223).

18. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims when depending on claim 16, configured to electronically detect, by means of said control device (222, 223), at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages among a plurality of types of containers for dispensing beverages, and is configured to regulate a volume of dispensing of said beverage, and / or a volume of dispensing of water flowing into said container for dispensing beverages (190) and / or at least one between a time of dispensing of said water in said container for dispensing beverages (190), a temperature of said water, a pressure of said water, according to said type of container for dispensing beverages.

19. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 18, wherein said control device (222, 223) is configured to electronically identify said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) identifying at least one among the following characteristics of the container for dispensing beverages (190): color of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190); shape of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190); weight of the container for dispensing beverages (190); graphic pattern of at least part of the container for dispensing beverages (190), and wherein said control device (222, 223) is an optical recognition device.

20. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 18, wherein said control device (222, 223) is a radio frequency detection device,wherein said container for dispensing beverages (190) comprises a RFID chip, and wherein said control device (222, 223) is configured to electronically identify said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) by means of a reading of said RFID chip.

21. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said dispensing device (108) comprises a second temperature regulator (109z) configured to regulate a temperature of said beverage; wherein said second temperature regulator (109z) is operatively arranged downstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190), preferably being arranged in said distributing body (108a); wherein said second temperature regulator (109z) is a temperature regulator of active type, preferably electrically supplied; and wherein said second temperature regulator (190) is configured to force a reaching of a predetermined temperature for said beverage or to keep a predetermined temperature of said beverage.

22. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 21 , wherein said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to come into direct contact with said beverage and / or is placed, in use, in direct contact with said beverage or, alternatively, wherein said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to indirectly heat said beverage, preferably by means of a separator element arranged between said second temperature regulator (109z) and said beverage.

23. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 21 or claim 22, wherein said dispensing portion (109) comprises a dispensing cavity (109w) and, in use, said beverage flows in said dispensing cavity (109w); said dispensing cavity (109w) is arranged downstream of said container for dispensing beverages (190) and said second temperature regulator (109z) is arranged within said dispensing cavity (109w).

24. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 14 or 15, and one or more of claims 21 to 23, configured to activate said second temperature regulator (109z) in an at least partial temporal simultaneity with said first temperature regulator (900) and / or wherein said second temperature regulator (109z) operatively cooperates with said first temperature regulator (900) to define a dispensing temperature of said beverage; preferably wherein said first temperature regulator (900) and / or said second temperature regulator (109z) is configured to be activated in a continuous or discontinuous way and / or wherein said dispensing device (108) is configured to regulate, preferably in an operatively time-variant way, a contribution or subtraction of heat provided by said first temperature regulator (900) and / or by said second temperature regulator (109z).

25. Dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims, configured to dispense said beverage, in particular by means of said dispensing portion (109), in a removable container (800), preferably an final container destined to allow the direct ingestion of the beverage by a user, more in particular a container graspable by at least one single hand of a user, optionally a cup; said dispensing device (108) comprising, or being operatively connected with, at least one presence sensor (801 , 802) configured to identify a presence of said container (800); wherein said presence sensor is operatively connected to said flow control element (400) and transmitting a presence signal having at least:- a first state, indicative of a presence of said container (800),- a second state, indicative of an absence of said container (800); said flow control element (400) having at least one first inlet supplied by said water supplying inlet (122) and at least one first outlet (401) configured to supply water to said supporting body (108b) and / or to said distributing body (108a).

26. Dispensing device (108) according to claim 25, wherein said flow control element (400) is configured to allow the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when the presence signal is in said first state and to prevent the water supply toward said container for dispensing beverages (190) when said presence signal is in said second state, subordinately to said at least one value assumed by at least one characteristic, preferably the temperature, of said water.

27. Faucet (100), more preferably a kitchen faucet, comprising a body (103) configured to be constrained, in particular fixed, to a support (200), preferably a kitchen top, and configured to sustain a dispensing spout (101), in use dispensing water, said faucet (100) comprising at least one first valve (104) connected to said dispensing spout (101) and configured to allow a user to regulate at least one between a water flow in said dispensing spout (101) and a temperature of the water dispensed in use by said dispensing spout (101); the faucet (100) comprising a dispensing device (108) according to one or more of the preceding claims.

28. Faucet (100) according to claim 27, wherein said supplying duct (107) is connected to, and supplies water towards, said at least one first valve (104), or wherein said supplying duct (107) does not supply water towards said at least one first valve (104),comprising a user interface (105) preferably of electronic type, configured to allow to select the dispensing of a beverage through said dispensing device (108); said user interface (105) being configured to allow the activation of at least one between a pump or a valve for the introduction of water in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122); preferably wherein said user interface (105) is configured to determine a time-controlled dispensing and / or is configured to allow a selection of at least one first dispensing volume, preferably a plurality of dispensing volumes, said user interface (105) being configured to determine an automatic stopping of said introduction of water in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122) upon reaching a predetermined dispensing time of said beverage and / or upon reaching a dispensing volume equal to said at least one first dispensing volume, and / or preferably wherein said user interface (105) is configured to allow to select one of a plurality of beverages and is configured to allow to regulate a temperature of said water introduced in said supplying duct (107) and / or in said water supplying inlet (122), optionally as a result of a selection of a particular beverage between said plurality of selectable beverages.

29. Faucet according to claim 16 and claim 28, wherein said at least one first dispensing volume, or said plurality of dispensing volumes, are calculated, and / or determined and / or associated to at least one first predefined type of container (800) and / or to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190), and / or said user interface (105) is configured to allow a variation of said at least one first dispensing volume, according to a type of said container (800), and / or according to said at least one first type of container for dispensing beverages (190) detected by means of said control device (222, 223).

30. Faucet (100) according to claim 27 or claim 28, wherein said flow control element (400) is configured:- to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401 ) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one;- to open and keep open, or close and keep closed, said first outlet (401 ) in an alternative way with respect to said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said first outlet (401 ) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said second outlet (402), or to open and keep open said second outlet (402) and, at the same time, close and keep closed said first outlet (401) when said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water crosses a predefined switching threshold (P1, T1) in a first sense and as long as said at least one value of said at least one characteristic of said water does not cross again said predefined switching threshold (P1 , T1) in a second sense opposed to the first one,said user interface (105) being configured to allow a regulation of the predefined switching threshold (P1, T1).31 . Faucet (100) according to one or more of claims 27-30, configured to be operatively connected with a storage tank (412) suitable for containing in use said water, said storage tank (412) being placed upstream of said inlet duct (107).

32. Faucet (100) according to one or more of claims 27-31 , wherein said an inlet of said flow control element (400) is connected with a discharge duct (199) configured to reintroduce water in a closed loop in said inlet duct (107) preferably through at least one among a storage tank (412), a heater, a pump (410), a one-way valve (411) and a control valve (408), or wherein said second outlet (402) and / or said discharge duct (199) are connected in a closed loop with said supplying duct (107) of said faucet (100).

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