HYDRAULIC UNIT FOR DISPENSERS OF CARBONATED WATER

Hydraulic unit for a carbonation apparatus (2) having a carbonator (3) and a pump (10). The hydraulic unit (1) has a body made of polymeric material (20) defining a plurality of ducts (21-26), which comprise a duct (21) to convey water to the carbonator (3), a duct (22) to add a gas to the carbonator (3), and at least one duct to draw water (24, 25, 26) from the carbonator (3). The body made of polymeric material (20) can also define a fluidic connection interface (30), configured for mounting the body made of polymeric material (20) at at least one upper end (3 a) of the carbonator (3). The body made of polymeric material body (20) can also define at least one inlet (23IN) and at least one outlet (26OUT) configured for connection to an outlet (11b) and an inlet (11a), respectively, of the pump (10) of the carbonation device (2).

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention refers in general to devices for dispensing carbonated water, preferably chilled and carbonated water, and has been developed with particular attention being paid to the connection systems used to interconnect certain functional components of such dispensing devices—such as for example a carbonator and a pump—between respective supply sources of water and gas, on the one hand, and members for dispensing water, carbonated water and/or cooled water, on the other hand.

BACKGROUND ART

Dispensing devices of the type indicated, such as those generally known as cooler-carbonators, are appliances designed for connection to a water supply source, such as a domestic drinking water network, and to a source of a pressurised gas, such as a cylinder containing carbon dioxide. These appliances are generally designed to allow to supply water at room temperature, chilled water and carbonated water. Generally, these devices are also designed to carry out a purification or filtration of the incoming water.

In general terms, the most important functional components of a cooler-carbonator comprise a pump, a water-cooling system and a water carbonator system, as well as a series of control devices, typically represented by solenoid valves.

The cooling system is usually represented by a classic refrigeration circuit, including a compressor, a condenser with a possible fan, a coil that acts as an evaporator, and an expansion valve or similar lamination member for the refrigerant.

The carbonation system typically comprises a so-called carbonator, i.e., a suitable container in which water and carbon dioxide are mixed, to provide carbonated water at the outlet. Given that a certain pressure is required to obtain the passage of water through the carbonator, the aforementioned pump is also provided. In various solutions, the coil of the refrigeration circuit is in direct contact with the outside of the carbonator, in order to cool the water contained thereinto: hence, in these solutions, the carbonator is exploited both to produce carbonated water and cooled water at the outlet.

As mentioned, the cooler-carbonator is supplied with water and carbon dioxide, to allow dispensing of water at room temperature, cooled water and carbonated water, through corresponding dispensing mouths that can be controlled selectively, typically through solenoid valves controlled by suitable keys. This implies that—at least as regards cooled water and carbonated water—the inlets of the cooler-carbonator connected to the water and gas sources must be connected to respective inlets of the carbonator, and that the outlets of the carbonator must be connected to the respective dispensing mouths of the cooler-carbonator.

These connections are traditionally made using flexible hoses, solenoid valves and bulk fitting components, that is, configured as separate components. Given the number of connections required between the water and gas inlets, the inlets and outlets of the carbonator, and the dispensing mouths, it is therefore necessary to prepare and use a lot of flexible hoses, even having different lengths, whose ends must also be equipped with the corresponding connection fittings: this determines the risk of incorrect connections and/or considerable construction times, as well as a significant occupation of space inside the cooler-carbonator. Given that the casing of the cooler-carbonator generally has small dimensions, particularly when intended for free-standing installation in household environments, the arrangement of the pipes is forcibly disordered, and complicates any subsequent maintenance operations, with the aforementioned risk of incorrect connections during production and/or maintenance. The solenoid valves, usually at least four, must be secured to the fixed structure of the cooler-carbonator, with further complications in terms of positioning and fixing, and production times. In addition to this, in view of the large number of connections made via bulk fittings, the risk of water leakage also increases correspondingly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In its general terms, the present invention aims to solve one or more of the indicated drawbacks. This aim is attained, according to the invention, by a hydraulic group for a carbonator apparatus having the characteristics indicated in the claims, which constitute an integral part of the teaching provided herein in relation to the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

Reference to “an embodiment” or “one embodiment” in the framework of this description is intended to indicate that a particular configuration, structure, or characteristic described in relation to the embodiment is comprised in at least one embodiment. Hence, phrases such as “in an embodiment”, “in one embodiment”, or the like that may be present in various points of this description do not necessarily refer to one and the same embodiment. Furthermore, particular conformations, structures, or characteristics defined in the framework of this description may be combined in any adequate way in one or more embodiments, even different from the ones represented. The reference numbers and spatial references (such as “upper”, “lower”, “top”, “bottom”, etc.) used herein are provided merely for convenience and hence do not define the sphere of protection or the scope of the embodiments. In the present description and in the attached claims, the definition “hydraulic unit”, referred to the object of the invention, is meant to designate an accessory component for fluidic connection for the carbonator apparatus, in particular intended to be mounted and fixed on a carbonator of said apparatus, but which does not constitute a constructive part thereof. In this perspective, the hydraulic unit described hereinafter does not perform the functions of a sealing lid or closure cap of a carbonator, but is instead intended to be set above such a lid or cap.

In the present description and in the attached claims, the generic term “material” shall be understood as including mixtures, compositions or combinations of several different materials. The same reference numbers are used in the figures to indicate similar or technically equivalent elements.

InFIGS.1and2there is represented in schematic form a hydraulic unit according to the invention, indicated as a whole with1, associated with a carbonator apparatus, here represented by a dispenser2of chilled and carbonated water, in particular a cooler-carbonator; the dispenser2is illustrated only with reference to the components thereof useful for the understanding of the present invention. In the example, the dispenser2includes a carbonator3, a coil8for a coolant fluid and an insulation body9, here generally parallelepiped in shape.

The dispenser further comprises a pump, indicated with10. In various embodiments, as it can be noted inFIG.1, a vertical face of the insulation body, here conventionally defined as the rear face, has associated thereto a metal plate10c, the pump10being fixed to this plate by means of brackets12.

Referring also toFIG.3, the pump10, of a per se known conception, has a body10aprovided with a head10b, in which a suction inlet11aand a delivery outlet11bare defined. The insulation body9, made for example with a heat-insulating material and/or structure, such as a foamed material, defines a cavity9a, within which the coil8extends, here substantially wound according to a cylindrical helix. The coil8acts as an evaporator and belongs, in a known way, to a refrigeration circuit which includes, for example—not represented—a compressor, a condenser with a possible fan, and a possible lamination member for the refrigerant fluid, as well as a possible control circuit.

The carbonator3has, in the example, an overall cylindrical shape and is inserted into the helix defined by the coil8, in contact therewith, in order to enable to cool the water contained in the carbonator: for this reason, the body of the carbonator3, or at least its peripheral wall, is preferably made of a material having a high heat transfer capacity, for example a metal, such as steel: in the example of implementation described here the carbonator3is used both to produce carbonated water, and to produce chilled water, as described below.

At the upper end3aof the carbonator3, here defined at least in part by a wall preferably made of metal, a level probe4and a safety valve5are mounted, both of conception and operation in themselves known, and therefore not described in detail herein. The level probe4has essentially the function of avoiding complete filling of carbonator3with water, that is, keeping the upper part of the carbonator free, so as to ensure a gas atmosphere—in particular carbon dioxide—at medium pressure (for example 2-5 bar), for the reasons described below. The safety valve5operates instead as a vent, that is, it opens if, for any reason, inside the carbonator3, a pressure is established above a predetermined safety threshold (for example about 8 bar).

At the upper end3aof the carbonator3, i.e., at its upper closing wall, a series of inlets and outlets are defined, and in particular:a first inlet6a, for introduction of water—possibly previously filtered—from a water supply source, for example a domestic drinking water network, not represented;a second inlet6b, for the introduction of a gas from a relevant supply source, such as a carbon dioxide cylinder, not represented,a third inlet6cfor pressurized water, that is, water forced by pump10;a first output6d, for the release of chilled water, anda second outlet6e, for the release of carbonated water.

The functions of the aforementioned inlets6a-6cand the aforementioned outlets6d-6ewill be discussed in detail later.

Preferably, the upper end or wall3aof the carbonator3also defines or has associated thereto elements7for the mechanical fastening of group1, as described below. Such elements may, for example, include shaped metal elements, sealingly inserted into corresponding through openings of the end3astarting from the lower side thereof, which are provided with a blind hole with a female thread, in order to allow fixing with screws of the unit1(see for exampleFIGS.13,15and21, where some of the aforementioned fixing screws are indicated with V). In use, the accessory unit1is therefore fixed above the upper wall3aof the carbonator3.

InFIG.4the main body of the unit is visible, according to possible embodiments, indicated with20as a whole, which is in particular a relatively rigid body of polymeric material (without prejudice to a possible limited intrinsic elasticity of the material in question). The polymer body20can be formed by injection moulding of at least one polymer; the preferred material is a thermoplastic material, for example PA66 or PPO, possibly filled with glass fibres (for example about 30%). The body20is a distinct component with respect to the carbonator3, and in particular with respect to its upper closing wall having the aforementioned inlets6a-6cand the aforementioned outlets6d-6e. The body20is prearranged for fixing on the carbonator3, but it does not constitute a constructive element thereof.

In various embodiments, the body20defines a plurality of ducts in a single body. The definition of “single body” is here intended to comprise both the case of a body formed in a single relatively stiff piece, and the case of a body formed by a number of relatively stiff pieces coupled or fixed together, for example welded, or glued, or engaged, or hooked together.

In various embodiments, the body20is provided with a plurality of ducts configured for hydraulic connection between the carbonator and the pump of the carbonator apparatus2.

In various preferential embodiments, the aforesaid ducts comprise at least one duct for supplying water to the carbonator3, one duct for supplying a gas to the carbonator3, and at least one duct for withdrawing water from the carbonator3.

In various embodiments, the body20defines or has associated thereto a connection interface, which is configured for connection with the carbonator3, in particular for fluidic connection at the upper end or wall3aof the carbonator, preferably for both fluidic connection and mechanical connection. In various preferential embodiments, the connection interface has at least one water outlet configured for fluidic connection to a water inlet of the carbonator, one gas outlet configured for fluidic connection to a gas inlet of the carbonator3, and at least one water inlet configured for fluidic connection to a water outlet of the carbonator3. The aforementioned connection interface is defined at one side of the accessory hydraulic unit1, here conventionally referred to as “lower side”, which is intended to face and/or rest on the upper surface of the wall3aof the carbonator3.

Preferably, the body20also defines a suction outlet configured for fluidic connection with the inlet11aof the pump, and a delivery inlet configured for fluidic connection with the outlet11bof the pump (10).

In various preferential embodiments, such as that represented, the body20defines in a single piece or body the aforementioned plurality of ducts and the aforementioned connection interface, the latter being indicated as a whole by30.

The body20defines a plurality of inlets and outlets for the aforementioned ducts which, in various embodiments, are selected from the following:a first water supply inlet, designed for fluidic connection with the aforementioned water supply source,a second gas supply inlet, designed for fluidic connection with the aforementioned gas supply source,a water delivery inlet, designed for fluidic connection with the outlet11bof the pump10,a water suction outlet, designed for fluidic connection with the inlet11aof the pump10,a first dispensing outlet for water which is not treated within carbonator3, i.e., water not cooled and/or water not carbonated,a second dispensing outlet, for cooled water, anda third dispensing outlet, for carbonated water.

In various embodiments, the first supply inlet has associated thereto a respective valve assembly, which may include at least an impeller of a flow meter, and/or at least one of the first dispensing outlet, the second dispensing outlet and the third dispensing outlet has associated thereto a respective valve assembly. For this purpose, in various embodiments, the body of polymeric material defines, near a longitudinal end of at least one duct of the plurality of ducts, at least one element for the mechanical fastening of a respective valve assembly.

In various embodiments, the water delivery inlet and the water suction outlet generally extend parallel to each other and have respective ends that lie substantially according to one and the same plane. In accordance with other embodiments, the water delivery inlet and the water suction outlet can be differently oriented, for example arranged substantially orthogonal to each other, for example with the aforementioned delivery inlet which is generally parallel to the aforementioned dispensing outlets, and with the aforementioned suction outlet extending upwards, at the upper side of the body20of the unit1.

Referring in particular to the non-limiting example shown inFIG.4, the plurality of ducts comprises:a first tubular duct21, having the aforementioned first supply inlet, indicated with21IN, and the aforementioned first dispensing outlet, indicated with21OUT,a second tubular duct22, having the aforementioned second supply input, indicated by22IN,a third tubular duct23for the introduction of pressurized water into the carbonator3, having the aforementioned delivery inlet, indicated by23IN,a fourth tubular duct24, having the aforementioned second dispensing outlet, indicated by24OUT, susceptible of fluidic connection with the inlet11of the pump10, anda fifth tubular duct25, having the aforementioned third dispensing outlet, indicated with25OUT.

In various embodiments the plurality of ducts also includes a sixth tubular duct26, having the aforementioned suction outlet, indicated with26OUT, wherein this sixth tubular duct26is in fluid communication with the fourth tubular duct24.

Preferably, one or more of the first tubular duct21, the second tubular duct22, the third tubular duct23, the fourth tubular duct24and the fifth tubular duct25extend substantially parallel or side by side, as in the non-limiting example shown, in the longitudinal direction of the unit (i.e., transversely or orthogonally with respect to an axis of the carbonator3).

It should be noted that the plurality of ducts may include a different number of ducts selected from those exemplified above, for example depending on the functional constructional characteristics of the dispenser.

In various embodiments, at least one duct of the plurality of ducts defines, at one end thereof, a positioning site for a plug. In embodiments of the type exemplified inFIG.4:duct22defines, at its axial end generally opposite the second supply inlet22IN, a positioning seat22afor a22bplug, and/orduct23defines, at its axial end generally opposite the delivery inlet23IN, a positioning seat23afor a plug23b, and/orduct26defines, at its axial end generally opposite the suction outlet26OUT, a positioning seat26afor a plug26b.

Also in this case, the number of ducts equipped with a plug may vary, for example depending on the functional constructional characteristics of the dispenser. The arrangement of the seats22a,23aand the corresponding plugs22b,23bmay also be different from that exemplified.

Each plug can also be formed with polymeric material, for example injection moulded, and have associated thereto one or more sealing elements, for example ring seals. The plug and its seat can be configured for mutual coupling, for example by means of a bayonet coupling, as in the case exemplified in the figure, or by a thread, or by means of pins.

In various embodiments, one or more ducts defined by the body20is/are equipped with at least one non-return valve. In various preferential embodiments:at least one respective non-return valve is arranged within the gas supply duct, in an intermediate position between the inlet and outlet thereof, which is preferably mounted in a plug occluding said cited duct at an axial end thereof, and/orat least one respective non-return valve is arranged within a duct for the introduction of pressurized water into the carbonator, in an intermediate position between an inlet and an outlet thereof, which is preferably be mounted in a plug occluding said duct at an axial end thereof.

Referring toFIG.4,51indicates a non-return valve, of a design known per se, which is associated with the plug22bof the duct22, for the purposes described below. With52and53are indicated two additional non-return valves, associated in series with the plug23bof the duct23, for the purposes described below.

In various embodiments, the body20have associated thereto connecting elements, for connecting the unit1to a pump. In various preferential embodiments, the delivery inlet and the suction outlet of the polymeric body have associated thereto respective connection fittings, configured for connection to the outlet and inlet of the pump. Referring toFIG.4, with55aand55bare indicated two connecting elements, in particular elbow-shaped, designed for coupling with the delivery inlet23INof duct23and with the suction outlet26OUTof duct26, configured for connection to the outlet11band the inlet11of the pump10, as described below. Fittings55aand55bcan also me made of a rigid polymeric material.

The delivery inlet and the suction outlet, with the possible associated fittings, obtains an interface arrangement configured for connection with the pump. In other embodiments, the delivery inlet and the suction outlet of unit1can be connected to the pump outlet and inlet, respectively, by means of pipes, for example pipes at least partly flexible, as exemplified in the following in relation to possible variants embodiments.

In various preferential embodiments, such as the one exemplified, at least some ducts (in the example ducts21-25), preferably substantially straight or including substantially straight sections, extend substantially parallel to each other. In various embodiments, a number of ducts extend in one and the same first direction, for example, a longitudinal direction of the body20(like ducts21-25of the example); one or more additional ducts, if provided, may extend in a second direction, for example a transverse direction with respect to the first direction (such as duct26).

Preferably, the sixth tubular duct26—if it is present—extends in a transverse or angled direction with respect to one or more other ducts of the body20, such as the ducts21-25, preferably in a lower position than at least the ducts22-25.

In various embodiments, duct26, if present, extends in a transverse or angled direction relative to other ducts of the body20, such as ducts21-25. In the non-limiting example shown, duct26does not extend below duct21, as the duct21has a reduced longitudinal development, for the purpose of mounting a valve assembly, as explained hereinafter. In order to facilitate the assembly of such valve assembly, without increasing the overall dimensions of the group1, in various embodiments the duct21has two portions21aand21bthat extend axially at different heights: in the case exemplified, the portion21adefining the inlet21INextends at a greater height than the portion21bdefining the outlet21OUT. More in general, in various embodiments, at least one duct of the body20has at least one first portion and a second portion that extend axially at different heights.

FromFIG.4it can be seen that, in various embodiments, the dispensing outlet21OUT,24OUTand25OUTare at one and the same first longitudinal end region of the body20, preferably substantially flush with each other, i.e., with the corresponding ends that lie substantially according to one and the same plane; on the other side, the supply inlet22INis at the opposite end region of the body20, to which also the inlet21INis oriented to.

Preferably, the inlets21INand22IN, on the one hand, and the outlets21OUT,24OUTand25OUT, on the other hand, extend according to substantially parallel axes, or side by side.

On a preferential basis, the suction outlet26OUTand the delivery inlet23INare substantially at one and the same end region of the body20where the inlet22INis located, in order to facilitate connection to the pump10, as described below. In order to facilitate the connection to the pump10, the inlet23INand the outlet26OUTextend preferably generally parallel to each other and have respective ends that lie substantially according to one and the same plane. Preferably, inlet23N and outlet26OUTextend axially in an angled or inclined direction, for example substantially perpendicular, with respect to the direction of extension of the ducts21-25, at the lower side of the body20. In any case, as already indicated, the suction outlet26OUTand the delivery inlet23INcan be differently arranged and oriented, in particular in the case of connection to the pump10by means of pipes, for example flexible pipes.

In various embodiments, at least one duct of the plurality of ducts defines, in the vicinity of a respective longitudinal end, at least one element for the mechanical fastening of a respective valve assembly, in particular a substantially flange element. In various embodiments, such as the one exemplified in the figures, the tubular duct21is shaped to define, near its inlet21INand its outlet21OUT, respective mechanical fixing elements50. Similarly, ducts24and25are shaped to each define, near the respective outlets24OUTand25OUT, similar mechanical fixing elements50. Preferably, the fixing elements50have a substantially standard conformation for coupling with commercially available valve assemblies. For this purpose, in the example shown, the elements50are generally flange-shaped, and comprise in particular two substantially parallel flanges, to define a groove or engagement seat therebetween for a mechanical fixing member, described below: such a conformation is for example suitable for coupling to solenoid valves as used in the field of household appliances.

In various embodiments, body20is shaped to define at least one seat for a sensor or transducer, such as a seat for a pressure transducer. With reference again toFIG.4, in the case exemplified such seat—indicated by46—is defined at duct21, in a position intermediate to the inlet21INand the outlet21OUT. In various embodiments, the body20is shaped so as to define at least one seat for a flow regulator; in the case exemplified inFIG.4, this seat—indicated by48—is defined at duct25, in particular at one of its inlets, as described hereinafter. Preferably each seat46and/or48is defined at one and the same side of the body20, for example the upper side, and extends axially in a direction substantially inclined or perpendicular with respect to the direction of extension of other ducts, here the ducts21-25.

In general, in various embodiments, the body of polymeric material defines at least one of a seat for a pressure transducer and a seat for a flow regulator. Preferably:the seat for the pressure transducer is defined along the duct for supplying water to the carbonator (here the duct21), in an intermediate position between the first supply inlet and the first dispensing outlet, and/orthe seat for the flow regulator is defined at an inlet for carbonated water defined in the polymer body.

InFIGS.5and6the hydraulic unit1is shown in different views, with associated respective functional control elements, which comprise a plurality of valve assemblies, and preferably the aforementioned pressure transducer and flow regulator. The various components of the unit1are represented in an exploded view inFIG.7.

In various embodiments, the first supply inlet21INof the body20has associated thereto a respective valve assembly. Similarly, at least one of the first dispensing outlet21OUT, the second dispensing outlet24OUTand the third dispensing outlet25OUThas associated thereto a respective valve assembly. InFIGS.5-7, with40is indicated a valve assembly associated with the inlet21IN, while with41,42and43are indicated valve assemblies associated with the outputs21OUT,24OUTand25OUT, respectively.

As is can be noticed, each valve assembly has a respective valve body VB, preferably made of plastic material, having an internal passage that defines a valve inlet IN and a valve outlet OUT. On the valve body VB, in an intermediate position of said passage, an electric actuator is mounted, preferably a solenoid one, with a respective known valve mechanism associated thereto, not visible. Assemblies41-43may consist of solenoid valves of a known design, for example of the unbalanced type, widely known in the field of household appliances.

As it can be guessed, particularly from the exploded view ofFIG.7, the inlets IN of the valve assemblies41,42and42are sealingly coupled to the respective outlets21OUT,24OUTand25OUTof the ducts21,24and25, which are for the purpose preferably provided with seats for respective sealing rings (visible in the figure, but not indicated by reference numerals); similarly, the outlet OUT of the valve assembly40is sealingly coupled to the inlet21INof duct21, also preferably provided with one or more seats for respective sealing rings.

As it can be seen, the bodies EV of the assemblies40-43are equipped with fixing elements50of a type substantially similar to those provided near the ends of the ducts21,23and25. In this way, the assemblies40-43can be coupled to the ends of such ducts21,23and25using fixing elements, represented here by interlocking brackets, indicated with50a, having a generally U-shaped conformation, for bridge-engagement between the elements50of the aforementioned ducts21,23,25and the elements50of the aforementioned valve bodies EV. The coupling between the bodies EV of the valve assemblies and the bodies of the ducts could also be of a different type.

In various embodiments, the hydraulic unit1is equipped with a flow meter, for example, integrated into one of the valve assemblies. The integration in the unit1of such a meter can be useful for the dosage of the amount of water to be dispensed, for example for the purpose of automatic filling of a glass or a carafe or bottle.

In the case exemplified in the figures, such a meter is integrated into the valve assembly40; in the example, an impeller indicated with45ainFIG.7is rotatably mounted within the inner duct of the corresponding body EV. According to a well-known technique, the impeller45aincludes an element, for example a magnet, capable of exciting an external detector45b, for example a magnetic sensor, mounted on the outside of the valve body EV of the assembly40in the corresponding position, and having associated thereto a connection wiring45c. The rotation of the impeller45acaused by the water in transit determines the periodic passage of the magnet at the detector45b, which generates at output a number of pulses in the unit of time which is a function of the rotation speed of the same impeller, and hence a function of the water flow rate.

In the exemplified case, the inlet IN of assembly40has associated thereto a quick-coupling module40a, via a ring nut40b; such a quick-coupling can be of any type, for example of the type known commercially as Speedfit™ (John Guest Ltd). The inlet22INcan also be configured or equipped with a similar quick coupling, as well as the outlets of the valve assemblies41,42and43.

In various embodiments, the duct21has a comparatively reduced length development with respect to one or more of the other ducts parallel thereto. As indicated, moreover, the duct21has two portions21aand21bat different heights, i.e., staggered, and does not extend above the duct26. This conformation can be adopted to enable coupling of the valve assembly40to the inlet21IN, while reducing the overall dimensions in length and height of the hydraulic unit1; as can be seen, for example inFIGS.5-6, in this way the quick coupling40aassociated with the valve assembly40is preferably substantially flush with the quick coupling that obtain the inlet22IN.

FromFIGS.5-6and9-10, for example, it is possible to see how the body of the assembly40extends above the transverse duct26, axially aligned with the portion21aof the duct21, and how, in order to facilitate this positioning, at least one portion26cof the transverse duct26can have a substantially semi-cylindrical passage section; this portion26ccan also extend below duct22(see for exampleFIG.11).

At least one of the ducts23and24also preferably has at least one respective portion with a similar semi-cylindrical section, but extending in a higher position than the transverse duct26: in the case exemplified, for example, at least the duct23has such a portion, indicated by23cfor example inFIGS.14,16and18.

Still inFIGS.5and7, with47and49are visible the previously mentioned pressure transducer and flow regulator, respectively, of a known conception, designed for assembly at the corresponding seats46and48defined by the body20; in the example, the transducer47is secured in the corresponding seat46by means of an appropriate transverse pin47a(FIG.7), while the regulator48is screwed in a variable way with respect to a female threading defined in the seat48. Also in this case, however, the specific fixing elements may vary from the case exemplified.

In various embodiments, the body20also defines a plurality of inlets and outlets for fluidic connection with the carbonator3, selected from the following:a water outlet, which is configured for connection to the inlet6aof the carbonator,a gas outlet, which is configured for connection to the inlet6bof the carbonator,a pressurized water outlet, which is configured for connection to the inlet6cof the carbonator,a cooled water inlet, which is configured for connection to the outlet6dof the carbonator, anda carbonated water inlet, which is configured for connection to the outlet6eof the carbonator.

In various embodiments, these inlets and outlets are defined by the previously mentioned interface, which is provided at the lower side of the body20, i.e., the side intended to be superimposed on wall3aof the carbonator3.

The interface is preferably formed in a relatively rigid single piece, but the case is not excluded of a production thereof in a number of relatively rigid parts coupled together to form a respective single body. As mentioned, the body of the hydraulic unit can define in a single piece both a plurality of ducts and the connection interface, but it is also possible to foresee that the ducts, on the one hand, and the interface, on the other hand, are defined by respective single pieces coupled with each other. It is also possible to provide first coupled parts that define the ducts, and second coupled parts that define the interface, with a body formed by the first coupled parts and a body formed by the second coupled parts that are then mutually coupled. It is also possible to provide body parts that define in a single piece both respective ducts, or duct parts, and respective parts of the interface, with these body parts that are then coupled together to form the single body of the hydraulic unit.

In general, the interface is prearranged for enabling a quick and easy connection of the various inlets and outlets of the body of the hydraulic unit with respect to at least corresponding outlets and inlets of the carbonator, preferably through a single operation of mutual coupling.

Preferably, one or more of the water outlet, the gas outlet, the pressurized water outlet, the cooled water inlet and the carbonated water inlet of the connection interface extends substantially angled or perpendicular to a direction of longitudinal extension of one or more from among the first tubular duct, the second tubular duct, the third tubular duct, the fourth tubular duct and the fifth tubular duct.

Referring to the non-limiting example of interface30as visible inFIG.6, and to the corresponding detail ofFIG.8:the water outlet is indicated with31OUT, and is in fluid communication with the duct21(see alsoFIGS.9-10and22), in an intermediate position between the inlet21INand the outlet21OUT;the gas outlet is indicated with32OUT, and is in fluid communication with the duct22(see alsoFIGS.11-13);the pressurized water outlet is indicated with33OUT, and is in fluid communication with the duct23(see alsoFIGS.14-16);the cooled water inlet is indicated with34IN, and is in fluid communication with the duct24, herein in an intermediate position between the outlet24OUTand the inlet11aof the pump10, herein via the duct26(see alsoFIGS.18-20and22);the carbonated water inlet is indicated with35IN, and is in fluid communication with the duct25(see alsoFIGS.11,12, and21).

In the non-limiting example, the aforementioned outlets31OUT,32OUT,33OUTand the aforementioned inlets34IN35INextend substantially inclined or perpendicular to the direction of longitudinal extension of the ducts21-25.

In various embodiments, the connection interface30is configured for the assembly of the body20at the end or wall3aof the carbonator3. For this purpose, preferably, the interface30includes a plurality of fluidic connections, indicated with31a,32a,33a,34aand35ainFIG.8, which define the outlets31OUT,32OUT,33OUTand the inlets34INand35IN, respectively. The fluidic connections31a,32a,33a,34a,35aeach have an interface side—that is, their side oriented towards the end or wall3aof the carbonator3—which lie preferably substantially according to one and the same plane.

In various embodiments, the fluidic connections of the connection interface each define a respective seat for a gasket, configured to achieve a seal with respect to the end surface or wall3aof the carbonator3. Referring in particular toFIG.8, the fluidic connections31a,32a,33a,34aand35adefine annular seats, indicated with31b,32b,33b,34band35b, respectively, suitable for housing corresponding sealing rings, some of which are indicated with38inFIG.7(see alsoFIGS.11and14for reference). As it can imagined, the rings38perform at least an axial sealing function, in particular with respect to the outer surface of the wall3aof the carbonator3.

In various embodiments, the body20defines a plurality of mechanical connections, configured for the mechanical fixing of the unit1to the carbonator3, in particular at the upper end or wall3athereof. In the example ofFIG.8, the abovementioned mechanical connections are indicated with36.

The connections36are preferably defined in the connection interface30. In the example ofFIG.8, the connections36have essentially eyelet conformation, by means of which the interface30, and therefore the body20of the unit1, can be fixed at the end3aof the carbonator3, via the previously mentioned screws V screwed into the threading of elements7, as shown for example inFIGS.13,15and21. The mechanical connections36also lie preferably according to one and the same plane.

In various embodiments, body20defines a plurality of support elements, configured for local rest without mechanical constraints on one or more components of the cooler-carbonator3.

In the example shown inFIG.8, with37afirst support elements are indicated, defined substantially within the interface30, in positions shifted or offset with respect to the fluidic connections, and designed for resting on the end3aof the carbonator3(see for exampleFIGS.9-10).

With reference toFIG.6, with37bsecond support elements are indicated, spaced apart from the interface30, configured for local rest on a stationary structure of the cooler-carbonator3, such structure being here represented by the upper end of the fixing plate10cof the pump10(see for exampleFIG.15). Preferably, the first and/or second support elements37a,37bhave respective resting ends that lie substantially according to one and the same plane; very preferably, the resting ends of the elements37aand37ball lie substantially according to one and the same plane.

Still fromFIG.8it is possible to see how, in various preferential embodiments, at least the fluidic connections31a,32a,33a,34a,35aare interconnected with each other, and preferably also interconnected with the mechanical connections36of the interface30. In the example, the interconnection is obtained by means of portions or walls30aof the body20, such as substantially straight portions, to form a substantially lattice structure. This conformation allows to contain the total weight of the body20and the amount of material necessary for manufacturing thereof, while ensuring an adequate structural strength. Possibly, the resting elements can also be interconnected to the fluidic connections and/or mechanical connection through similar straight portions of the body20.

InFIGS.9and10it is clearly visible how, preferably, the outlet31OUTof the fluidic connection31ais defined in an intermediate position of the duct21, for the connection with the corresponding inlet6aof the carbonator3, having associated thereto a duct WIN for supplying water to the carbonator3.

In the non-limiting example represented in the figures, the internal volume of the carbonator3is divided into two sections or compartments by an intermediate transverse wall, indicated in the figures with3b. The lower compartment, indicated with A, is basically intended for the production and accumulation of cooled water, while the upper compartment, indicated with B, is intended to ensure presence within it of an atmosphere of gas under a slight pressure, that is, carbon dioxide in the example considered here. The abovementioned duct WIN, which passes through the intermediate wall3band extends until close to the bottom of compartment A (see alsoFIG.22), is therefore intended to adduce to the compartment A water coming from the inlet21IN, for the purposes of cooling this water.

InFIGS.11-13it is visible how the outlet32OUTof the fluidic connection32aof the connection interface is connected to the inlet6bof the carbonator3, this inlet6bopening in the upper compartment B. From these figures it may also be noted that the non-return valve51, here associated, or close, to the cap22b, is located within the duct22in an intermediate position between its inlet22INand outlet32OUT. In this way, as can be imagined, within carbon dioxide can be retained at a certain pressure within the compartment B.

InFIGS.14-16there are visible the outlet33OUTof the fluidic connection33aof the connection interface, designed for connection with the inlet6cof the carbonator3, as well as—also inFIG.17—the inlet23INof the duct23, designed for connection with the outlet11bof the pump10(see in particularFIGS.15and17), through the corresponding fitting55b. The inlet6calso opens in the compartment B of the carbonator3, and essentially consists of a calibrated hole (with a diameter approximately between 0.8 and 1.2 mm), for the forced entry of water into the carbonator. In particular, fromFIGS.15and16it is possible to notice how, in front of the entrance6c, at a certain distance therefrom inside the compartment B, there is preferably positioned a portion of a deflector element DE, here substantially L-shaped, in such a way that pressurized water entering through the inlet6chits this portion of the deflector DE, for the reasons explained hereinafter.

FromFIGS.14-16it is well noted how the non-return valves52and53, here associated, or close, to the plug23b, are located within the duct22in an intermediate position between the inlet23INand outlet33OUTthereof. In this way, as it can be imagined, valves52and53also prevent the outflow from compartment B of the carbon dioxide contained thereinto.

InFIGS.18-20it is visible the inlet34INof the fluidic connection34aof the connection interface, designed for connection with the inlet6dof the carbonator3, to which a duct CWOUTis associated, for withdrawing cooled water from the carbonator3, in particular from compartment A. For this purpose, the aforementioned duct CWOUTpasses through the intermediate wall3band extends slightly beyond it, at the upper part of compartment A (see alsoFIG.22). InFIG.18is also visible the duct26, with its outlet26OUT, designed for connection with the inlet11aof the pump10(see alsoFIG.17), through the corresponding fitting55a.

FromFIG.18it is clear how, in the shown example of implementation, the duct24and the duct26are connected to each other, in the area indicated by C, and how the inlet34INis located along the duct24in a position intermediate to the delivery outlet24OUTand this connection area C between the ducts24and26.

Still inFIGS.11-12andFIG.21there is visible the inlet35INof the fluidic connection35aof the connection interface, designed for connection with the outlet6eof the carbonator3, to which a duct is associated, for the withdrawal of carbonated water SWOUTfrom the carbonator3, particularly from compartment B. For this purpose, the aforementioned duct SWOUTextends within the compartment B at a lower height than the portion of the deflector element DE that is opposite to the inlet6C (see alsoFIG.15).

FromFIGS.11,12and21it can be seen how the inlet35INis defined substantially in a position corresponding to the end of the duct25which is opposite to the outlet25OUT, and how the flow regulator49, i.e., its regulating tip, is located right at the inlet35IN, in order to allow prior adjustment of its passage section (screwing more or less the regulator49in the corresponding threaded seat48).

The valve assemblies40-43are of a normally-closed type and are opened depending on the water withdrawals made by a user of the cooler-carbonator, by operating on respective control elements, for example keys present on a user interface (not represented) of the cooler-carbonator.

When the user wants the supply of water at room temperature, he operates a first key, thereby determining opening of the valve assembly41associated with the outlet21OUTof the duct21: in this way a decrease in pressure inside the duct21takes place, detected by means of the pressure transducer47, which consequently controls opening of the valve assembly40associated with the inlet21INof the same duct21: in this way, passage of water from the inlet IN of the valve assembly40to the outlet OUT of the valve assembly41is allowed.

When the user wants the dispensing of cooled water, he operates a second key, thereby determining opening of the valve assembly40associated with the inlet21INof duct21and the opening of the valve assembly42associated with the outlet24OUTof duct24. In this way, referring for example toFIG.19, mains water at room temperature can flow into the compartment A of the carbonator, through the duct21, the outlet31OUTand the duct WIN associated with the inlet6aof the carbonator, and a corresponding volume of chilled water is forced to flow out of this compartment A, through the duct CWOUTassociated with the outlet6dof the carbonator3and the inlet34IN: the cooled water is then dispensed through the outlet OUT of the valve assembly42.

When the user wants the dispensing of carbonated water, he operates a third key, thereby determining opening of the valve assembly43associated to the outlet25OUTof the duct25, and activation of the pump10. Pump10(see for exampleFIGS.12, and17-19) sucks at the inlet11ththereof cooled water from compartment A of the carbonator3, via the duct CWOUT, the inlet34IN, the ducts24and26, and the outlet26OUT. This chilled water is then forced at the outlet11bof the pump10, to reach the outlet33OUTand hence penetrate the compartment B of the carbonator3, through the inlet6c(see for exampleFIG.15), after passing the non-return valves52-53. Therefore, the water forced by the pump is under pressure (for example between 8 and 10 bar, greater than that of the carbon dioxide atmosphere present in compartment B), and penetrates with high energy the calibrated inlet6cof the carbonator3, substantially nebulizing and hitting with force the corresponding opposite portion of the deflector element DE: in this way, the nebulized water particles aggregate to the carbon dioxide present in the compartment B, and then flow through the duct SWOUTassociated with the outlet6eof the carbonator, i.e., at the inlet35INof the hydraulic unit1, through the flow regulator49; the carbonated water can then flow into duct25to be dispensed through the outlet OUT of the valve assembly43.

The level probe4of the carbonator3has a detection part4a(see for exampleFIGS.13and16), in order to prevent the compartment B from being complete filled with water, that is, to keep the upper part free for the carbon dioxide. The safety valve5of the carbonator3(see e.g.,FIG.15) prevents potentially dangerous pressures from being established inside the carbonator3.

In the embodiments previously exemplified, the hydraulic unit according to the invention is equipped with a plurality of electrically controllable valve assemblies. However, this is not an essential feature, since in possible variants embodiments, the hydraulic unit could be designed for use on cooler-carbonators provided, for example, with taps that are manually operable by the user. In this perspective, one or more ducts of the body20could have a modified shape, also at their inlets and/or outlets.

For example,FIG.23illustrates the case of a unit1in which the ducts21,24and25of the body20have a modified shape, where in particular each of them has a respective terminal portion211,241and251, without valve assemblies directly associated thereto, which defines a relative attachment, preferably of a quick type, not visible, but for example similar to the quick coupling of the inlet22INwith its ring nut40b, or equipped with a module of the type previously indicated with40a(seeFIG.7). In such a case, therefore, the outlets21OUT,24OUTand25OUTof the body20are obtained by such quick couplings.FIG.24illustrates the case of a body20whose duct21has a respective initial portion212without a directly associated valve assembly, which defines such an attachment, preferably of the quick type; in such a case, therefore, the inlet21INof body20is obtained by such an attachment.

Note that, inFIGS.23and24, the ducts21,24and25are provided with flange elements F of the type previously indicated with50, near which the ducts themselves define grooves or restrictions R (the aforementioned flange elements F and the aforementioned restrictions R are indicated inFIGS.23-24only for duct21). This configuration can be useful to obtain a single version of the body20by moulding, which can be used as shown inFIGS.23-24, or which can instead be modified by mechanically removing the portions of the duct downstream of the aforementioned restrictions R, in order to obtain useful space for the coupling of valve assemblies of the type previously indicated with41,42and43; in this case the restrictions R realize the hydraulic connections for the valve groups and the seats for the corresponding sealing rings, while the elements F are used for the mechanical fixing of such valve assemblies, for example using brackets of the type previously indicated with50a.

A body20substantially of the type described with reference toFIGS.4-6can also have associated thereto one or more extension elements, to obtain configurations without one or more valve assemblies as exemplified inFIGS.23and24. For example,FIG.25shows a case similar to that ofFIG.24, in which a body20have associated thereto extension elements indicated with61, each having a tubular body of plastic material which defines the respective inlet and outlet.

In the example, an extension element61has an inlet61IN, for example configured with a quick coupling, and an outlet61OUTthat is shaped for sealed coupling with the inlet21IN(not visible here) of the duct21. Similarly, three further extension elements61have respective inlets61INshaped for sealed coupling with the outlets21OUT,24OUTand25OUTof the ducts21,24and24(not visible here), and respective outlets61OUT, for example configured with a quick coupling. In the example, the extension elements61integrally define—near the respective inlets or outlets for fluidic connection with the body20—mechanical fixing elements of the type already indicated with50, in order to enable the parts20and61to be secured to each other by means of fixing members of the type previously indicated with50a.

InFIGS.26-31there is represented in a schematic form a hydraulic unit1in accordance with further possible embodiments. In these figures the same reference numbers as the previous figures are used, to indicate elements technically equivalent to those already described above. Also this hydraulic unit1has a respective body20made of plastic material, configured for mounting on a carbonator, in particular at its end or upper wall equipped with inlets and outlets.

With respect to the embodiments mentioned above, unit1ofFIGS.26-31is distinguished by a more compact body20, and configured for connection to the pump of a carbonator apparatus by means of pipes, preferably at least partly flexible pipes. Note that what has been described above in relation to these carbonator apparatus and pump is equally valid in the case of the unit1ofFIGS.26-31. Unit1ofFIGS.26-31includes the various components and ducts already described above, which are simply redistributed, while ensuring the same functionalities already indicated for the unit1ofFIGS.1-25, in particular in terms of fluidic connection to the carbonator and the pump.

Unit1ofFIGS.26-31is particularly prearranged for connection to a pump by means of pipes, preferably flexible pipes. For this reason, as compared to the versions of hydraulic unit1referred to inFIGS.1-25, unit1ofFIGS.26-31does not require the duct26in which the suction output26OUTis to be defined, and the ducts22and23can have a respective comparatively smaller axial development, also compared to the ducts21,24and25, as can be seen for example inFIGS.29-30; on the other hand, the duct25may have a longer development than in the case of unit1ofFIGS.1-25.

The delivery inlet23INand the suction outlet26OUTof unit1ofFIGS.26-31can also be differently positioned. Referring for example toFIG.29, it will be noted that the suction outlet26OUTcan in this case be defined directly at the duct24, in particular at the upper side thereof, and how the delivery inlet23INcan be oriented towards the outlet end of unit1(i.e., the end equipped with the valve assemblies41-43). As can be seen, therefore, the delivery inlet23INand the suction outlet26OUTare located in a generally central region of unit1, or in respective positions of the body20that are intermediate to the two longitudinal ends of the body itself.

Given the different conformation and arrangement of ducts22and23, the seats22a,23aand the corresponding plugs22b,23bcan also be arranged differently with respect to the case ofFIGS.1-25. Also in the case ofFIGS.26-31the seats22a,23aare defined substantially in a position corresponding to an axial end of the duct22,23, respectively, opposite to the corresponding inlet. In the case ofFIGS.26-31, however, although they are still in fluid communication with the ducts22and23, the seats22aand23aextend vertically at the upper side of unit1or body20, as clearly visible for example inFIGS.26,27and31, and without prejudice to their functions of housing the non-return valves51and52-53, which are associated to the plugs22band23b, respectively, as clearly visible for example inFIG.31. From the sameFIG.31it is noted that, in embodiments of this type, the gas outlet32OUTand the pressurized water outlet33OUTcan be defined at the bottom of the same seats22aand23a, respectively.

The features and functionalities described above for the connection interface30remain valid in the case of the unit1ofFIGS.26-31, as can be seen for example fromFIG.30. From this figure it can be noticed that the arrangement of the outlets31OUT,32OUT,33OUTand the inlets34IN,35INof the interface30may be different from the one exemplified inFIG.8, for example in view of a different arrangement of the inlets6a-6cand the outlets6d-6eof the carbonator (seeFIG.3as a reference).

FIGS.32and33illustrate a mounted condition of unit1ofFIGS.26-31on a carbonator3of a dispenser2of the type already indicated above, equipped with a corresponding pump10.

In this case, the pump10is located on the insulation body9of the dispenser2at the outlet end of group1, i.e., the end thereof including the valve assemblies41-43, although this is not an essential feature. From these figures it is also possible to notice the fluidic connection of the pump10to the unit1by means of pipes, indicated with T1and T2, preferably at least partly flexible pipes. As particularly visible inFIG.32, the pipe T1connects the outlet11bof the pump10to the delivery inlet23INof the unit1, while the pipe T2connects the input11aof the pump10to the suction outlet26OUTof the unit1. In the example, the connection of the pipes T1and T2to the outlet and inlet of the pump10is achieved using quick-coupling fittings, for example of the type previously indicated with55band55a, respectively, although this does not constitute an essential characteristic; a similar fitting, such as the one indicated with55c, can be used for the connection of the pipe T2to the outlet26OUTof group1. A similar fitting could possibly also be used for the connection of the pipe T1to the inlet23N of unit1.

The functionalities of the unit1ofFIGS.26-31are the same as those described above with reference to the embodiments ofFIGS.1-25.

Also in the case of the embodiments ofFIGS.26-31, the hydraulic unit1could be designed for use on cooler-carbonators equipped, for example, with taps that can be manually operable by the user. In this perspective, one or more ducts21,24and25of the body20of unit1could have a modified shape, also at the corresponding inlets and/or outlets, similarly to what has been described above with reference toFIGS.23and24. In the same way, also the body20of unit1ofFIGS.26-31could have associated thereto one or more extension elements, to obtain configurations without one or more valve assemblies, similarly to what has been described above with reference toFIG.25.

Presence of the pressure transducer47and/or the flow meter45a-45cshall be considered optional in all embodiments.

It is clear that numerous variants are possible for the person skilled in the art to the hydraulic unit described as an example, without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims that follow.