EP2694430A1 - Appliance for dispensing drinking water - Google Patents

Appliance for dispensing drinking water

Info

Publication number
EP2694430A1
EP2694430A1 EP12717392.0A EP12717392A EP2694430A1 EP 2694430 A1 EP2694430 A1 EP 2694430A1 EP 12717392 A EP12717392 A EP 12717392A EP 2694430 A1 EP2694430 A1 EP 2694430A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
water
drinking water
compartment
refrigeration
dispensing
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP12717392.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Robert Liccioni
Thomas LICCIONI
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
TREFLE GROUPE
Original Assignee
TREFLE GROUPE
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by TREFLE GROUPE filed Critical TREFLE GROUPE
Publication of EP2694430A1 publication Critical patent/EP2694430A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D1/00—Apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught
    • B67D1/08—Details
    • B67D1/0857—Cooling arrangements
    • B67D1/0858—Cooling arrangements using compression systems
    • B67D1/0861—Cooling arrangements using compression systems the evaporator acting through an intermediate heat transfer means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00002—Purifying means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B67—OPENING, CLOSING OR CLEANING BOTTLES, JARS OR SIMILAR CONTAINERS; LIQUID HANDLING
    • B67D—DISPENSING, DELIVERING OR TRANSFERRING LIQUIDS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B67D2210/00—Indexing scheme relating to aspects and details of apparatus or devices for dispensing beverages on draught or for controlling flow of liquids under gravity from storage containers for dispensing purposes
    • B67D2210/00002—Purifying means
    • B67D2210/00013—Sterilising means
    • B67D2210/00015—UV radiation

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an apparatus for dispensing drinking water, particularly at different temperatures.
  • Dispensing devices of this type are well known and are described in particular in US Pat. No. 7,861,550 or in European Patent Applications EP 2,164,795 and EP 2,221,273.
  • the water is not distributed under optimal conditions, because the filter is cooled by the refrigeration means for lowering the temperature of the water to be dispensed.
  • the water leaving the filter is at a temperature imposed by the refrigeration means and arrives, in practice, at the point of use, with a temperature of the order of 4-5 ° C., while Refreshed water is usually dispensed at temperatures generally between 10 and 15 ° C.
  • the present invention generally relates to provisions to avoid these disadvantages and further leading to other advantages.
  • One of its aims is to produce a drinking-water dispensing apparatus for dispensing this water in optimal conditions.
  • a drinking water dispensing apparatus comprising:
  • a drinking water distribution circuit extending between the inlet and the dispensing ends
  • Cooling means adapted to lower the temperature of the drinking water circulating in the distribution circuit
  • the purification means are housed in a thermally insulated compartment of the refrigeration means.
  • the water is able to be distributed by the apparatus under optimized sanitary and temperature conditions, the purification means being located close to the points of use and not being under the direct influence of the units. refrigeration means.
  • the apparatus comprises secondary refrigeration means adapted to lower the temperature of the purification means and / or the compartment in which they are housed.
  • the apparatus comprises a first compartment for the refrigeration means and a second compartment for the purification means, located above the first compartment and separated therefrom by a wall of insulating material.
  • the apparatus comprises a remote box forming the compartment for which are housed the purification means.
  • the distribution circuit comprises a bypass passage bypassing the purification means formed by a filter, and wherein the cooled water circulates in a cleaning mode of the drinking water dispensing apparatus.
  • the purification means comprise at least one activated carbon filter.
  • the purification means further comprise a UV lamp sterilizer.
  • the secondary refrigeration means comprise a tubular exchanger in which circulates a cooling fluid from the refrigeration means or a secondary refrigerating system.
  • the secondary refrigeration means comprise a cooling exchanger by direct contact with the body of a filter forming purification means and cooled by direct contact with the refrigeration means.
  • the refrigeration means are in the form of a bench of ice or a cooled water bath.
  • the apparatus comprises pretreatment means upstream of the refrigeration means.
  • the apparatus comprises a water heater adapted to allow the sterilization of at least a portion of the distribution circuit by means of hot water.
  • the apparatus comprises an ozone generator adapted to supply the ozone distribution circuit and arranged in the vicinity of the water inlet end in the apparatus.
  • the distribution circuit comprises a terminal pipe forming at least one drinking water use point to be dispensed and connected to a dispensing valve at each point of use.
  • the terminal tubing has, at each point of use, a serpentine tube inside which is housed a UV lamp.
  • the apparatus comprises control means ensuring the operation of the water dispensing apparatus in a water delivery mode or in a cleaning mode.
  • control means comprise solenoid valves controlled by an electronic timer.
  • the means for circulating a drinking-water distribution apparatus comprise a bypass passage bypassing purification means formed by a filter, for example those defined above. and wherein the water, unfiltered and optionally refreshed, circulates in a cleaning mode of the water dispensing apparatus.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view of a drinking water dispensing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of this invention.
  • FIGS. 3 and 4 are, on a different scale, schematic side views in perpendicular directions of an insulating box with two compartments according to the present invention and illustrating more particularly an embodiment of the secondary refrigeration means;
  • FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating an aspect, original in itself, of the present invention.
  • a drinking water dispensing apparatus 1 comprises an insulating casing 2 with two compartments through which a distribution circuit 3 of the water to be dispensed (that is, say, a set of pipes ensuring the flow of the water to be dispensed), extending between an inlet end 4 of water to be dispensed in the apparatus and an opposite end of water distribution, at the for which are accommodated refrigeration means 6 adapted to lower the temperature of the water to be dispensed and circulating in the distribution circuit, and purification means 7 of the water to be dispensed and cooled by these cooling means, arranged to the distribution end.
  • a distribution circuit 3 of the water to be dispensed that is, say, a set of pipes ensuring the flow of the water to be dispensed
  • the apparatus also comprises secondary refrigeration means 8, adapted to lower the temperature of the compartment 9 in which are housed the purification means.
  • the distribution circuit comprises, at the drinking water inlet end to dispense a connection 10 for the connection of a water inlet pipe connected, for example, to the drinking water network. the room in which the drinking-water distribution apparatus is installed.
  • a non-return valve 1 1, an inlet and safety solenoid valve 13 for controlling the flow of water entering the drinking-water distribution apparatus and controlled in concert. with solenoid valves for cooling water supply and hot water, described in more detail below.
  • a pretreatment filter 12, here with sediment, is fluidly connected to the entrance of the inlet and safety solenoid valve to retain pollutants floating in the drinking water system water (scale, sand, earth,. ..) and on the output of the solenoid valve 13 is mounted a Venturi 14 provided with an inlet opening communicating with an ozone generator 15 in order to be able to operate the drinking water dispensing apparatus in cleaning method using ozonated water.
  • the circuit comprises, downstream of this Venturi, a tubing 16 provided with a coil-shaped portion 17, immersed in the refrigeration means.
  • These refrigeration means are here in the form of a bank of ice, namely a peripheral coil 18 in which circulates a refrigerant gas, for example freon, which lowers the temperature of the water in its vicinity until creating a peripheral ice bank therein, which in turn gradually lowers the temperature of the water to the center of the compartment 19 of the insulating box receiving this water, which compartment is traversed by the aforementioned serpentine-shaped part and in which circulates the water to refresh.
  • a refrigerant gas for example freon
  • the peripheral coil thus acts as an evaporator of a cooling circuit including in particular also a compressor.
  • a cooling circuit including in particular also a compressor.
  • the latter has not been shown in the drawings and the same is true of the rest of the components of the cooling circuit, being conventional elements well known in the technical field of the invention.
  • a cooling water stirring pump 20 is generally provided for correctly distributing the frigories and thus ensuring uniform cooling of the water.
  • This pipe is connected by a T-connector 21 to the inlet of an activated carbon filter, forming here the purification means 7 mentioned above, and the outlet of which is connected to a terminal pipe 22 of the cooling circuit.
  • distribution forming here two points of use 23, 24 for the distribution of refreshed drinking water.
  • this terminal tubing is provided, at each outlet, with a T-connection 25, 26 each having an outlet fluidly connected to one of the dispensing valves (outlet) 27, 28 of drinking water mentioned above. .
  • the second outlet of the T-fitting located furthest downstream of the distribution circuit on this main pipe is connected to a drain solenoid valve 29 of the circuit, to the outlet of which is connected a discharge tube 30 of the circuit bringing the water of the draining the distribution circuit, in a cleaning operation mode of the drinking-water supply apparatus, in a drain tank 31, also forming a support for the container or containers for receiving the drinking water to be dispensed.
  • a secondary activated carbon filter 32 is also arranged on this drain pipe to destroy the characteristic odor of ozone.
  • the terminal pipe is connected to the output of the main activated carbon filter by means of a connecting tube 33 and a three-way solenoid valve 34 and a water heater 35 is arranged in an exchange situation. of heat with a bypass tube 36, at the input of this three-way solenoid valve.
  • the water heater is used here to sterilize the terminal pipe of the solenoid valve 34 in cases where the water is very low chlorinated.
  • the third channel of this solenoid valve is fluidly connected by the bypass tube 36 to the second outlet of the T-piece connected to the inlet of the main activated carbon filter, in order to be able to bypass this filter in a cleaning mode of the water dispensing apparatus, as will be described in more detail below.
  • each of the water outlets is provided with a sterilization lamp 37, 38 by UV rays and, for this purpose, each outlet is provided with an outlet tube 39, 40 having a coil-shaped portion surrounding the corresponding lamp and made of UV-transparent material, such as quartz or polytetrafluoroethylene.
  • the outlets 23, 24 are thus maintained in optimal sanitary conditions.
  • the main activated carbon filter is here provided with a check valve 41, 42 at the inlet and at the outlet.
  • the insulating box comprises a first compartment for the refrigeration means defined above and a second compartment 9 for the purification means (the activated carbon filter), located above the first compartment and separated from this one by a partition 44 of insulating material (here a polyurethane plate) forming here cover and used to thermally isolate the second compartment of the refrigeration means.
  • a partition 44 of insulating material here a polyurethane plate
  • thermoally insulated means that between the housing housing the purification means and the refrigeration means there are means of low thermal conductivity so that the purification means as little as possible under the influence of the temperature of the refrigeration means.
  • a similar cover 45 covers an access opening to the second compartment at the upper end thereof.
  • the main activated carbon filter is not only arranged in the immediate vicinity of the drinking-water distribution outlets, thus protecting a maximum length of the distribution circuit with the residual chlorine of the incoming water. of this circuit and intended to be retained by the filter, but also allows to deliver the purified water at dispensing temperatures that consumers generally want for fresh water, being of the order of 10-15 ° C.
  • the water is distributed under optimal sanitary and temperature conditions.
  • main activated carbon filter is easily accessible for replacement, extending here, horizontally above the refrigeration means, in the second compartment.
  • the box with two compartments also offers a very compact structure.
  • the structure according to the invention makes it possible to implement the aforementioned secondary refrigeration means in order to better adjust the temperature of the water at the outlet of the purification means, namely here the main activated carbon filter. keeping the second compartment at the required temperature for this water temperature.
  • the partition of insulating material is here provided with an opening 47 through which the exchanger enters the the second compartment.
  • This exchanger is fed with ice water from the ice bank by a connecting tube 48 fluidly connected to the stirring pump of the ice bank, thereby also forming a lifting pump.
  • the ozonated water produced by the ozone generator of hot water or chlorinated water is sent to the distribution circuit for cleaning.
  • the rinsing is preferably provided at least once a day to avoid prolonged stagnation of water without chlorine.
  • the main activated carbon filter is short-circuited in this cleaning mode by corresponding control of the solenoid valve arranged at the output of this filter: closing its input connected to the filter and opening of its input connected to the bypass passage.
  • the chlorinated water from the water inlet of the apparatus can circulate to the points of use to thus clean the whole circuit with the residual chlorine present in this water, without it being retained by the filter.
  • FIG. 2 is similar to that of FIG. 1. It will therefore be described only the differences, the identical or similar elements in the two figures bearing the same numerical references.
  • this embodiment is distinguished mainly from that of FIG. 1 by the implementation of a second remote insulating box forming the compartment for the benefit of which are housed the means of purification 7, which are also in the case of this embodiment in the form of an activated carbon filter.
  • the cooling exchanger of this insulating box is fed by the ice bank by means of a connecting tube 48 through, here, a wall of the box, as the return of this exchanger to the ice bench.
  • a remote box is particularly appropriate in the case where the water dispenser is in the form of a column fountain.
  • FIGS 3 and 4 show very schematically an alternative embodiment of the secondary refrigeration means.
  • These comprise an exchanger 146 from folding a metal plate so as to be adapted to a supply of frigories by direct contact with the purification means.
  • a cradle for the activated carbon filter whose feet 152, 153 rest, at their longitudinal ends, on the structure 154 of the ice bank and soak, for the rest of their length in the bench of ice cream.
  • the water distribution apparatus shown in FIG. 5 shows that the bypass passage for the carbon filter can be implemented independently of thermally isolating a second compartment of the refrigeration means, but also that it can be implemented on a carbon filter placed upstream of refrigeration means.
  • the distribution circuit can be adapted to also distribute temperate or hot water, in particular by the implementation of a corresponding distribution pipe, as well as a water heater and filters arranged appropriately .
  • the secondary cooling means may also be supplied by a cooling fluid from a cooled water bath or a secondary refrigeration system.
  • the purification means may be one or more filters, preferably with at least one activated carbon filter, the other filter or filters may contain other filtering media (ion exchange resin, membranes, polyphosphates, absorbent material).
  • filtering media ion exchange resin, membranes, polyphosphates, absorbent material.
  • a UV lamp sterilizer can be placed in the housing housing the activated carbon filter.
  • the polyurethane plate may, for example, be replaced by a polystyrene plate.
  • UV lamps at the point of use can also be replaced by ozone treatment or heating.
  • ozonated water can also be replaced by ozone circulated through a pump.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Thermal Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Water Treatments (AREA)
  • Devices For Dispensing Beverages (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to an appliance for dispensing drinking water, comprising: an inlet end (4) for drinking water to be dispensed into the appliance and an opposite end (5) for dispensing water; a drinking water dispensing circuit (3) extending between the inlet and dispensing ends; refrigeration means (6) appropriate for lowering the temperature of the drinking water flowing in the dispensing circuit; means (7) for purifying the drinking water cooled by the refrigeration means, said purifying means (7) being arranged at the dispensing end; characterized in that the purifying means (7) are housed in a compartment thermally insulated from the refrigeration means.

Description

Appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson  Apparatus for dispensing drinking water
La présente invention a trait à un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson, en particulier sous différentes températures. The present invention relates to an apparatus for dispensing drinking water, particularly at different temperatures.
Des appareils de distribution de ce type sont bien connus et sont notamment décrits dans le brevet américain US 7 861 550 ou dans les demandes de brevet européen EP 2 164 795 et EP 2 221 273.  Dispensing devices of this type are well known and are described in particular in US Pat. No. 7,861,550 or in European Patent Applications EP 2,164,795 and EP 2,221,273.
Ils présentent néanmoins l'inconvénient de ne jamais pouvoir distribuer l'eau au(x) point(s) d'utilisation dans des conditions parfaitement optimales. En effet, dans le cas du distributeur d'eau du brevet US 7 861 550, l'eau passe dans un filtre pour purification, en particulier pour retenir le chlore, avant son refroidissement. Il en résulte un risque de formation d'un bio-film et/ou un développement de bactéries après le filtre, en particulier au point d'utilisation.  However, they have the disadvantage of never being able to distribute the water to the point (s) of use in perfectly optimal conditions. Indeed, in the case of the water dispenser of US Pat. No. 7,861,550, the water passes through a purification filter, in particular to retain the chlorine, before it is cooled. This results in a risk of formation of a bio-film and / or a development of bacteria after the filter, especially at the point of use.
Il ne peut donc être garanti que l'eau soit distribuée au point d'utilisation dans des conditions d'hygiène parfaites.  It can not therefore be guaranteed that the water is distributed at the point of use in perfect hygienic conditions.
Ce problème ne se pose normalement pas avec les distributeurs d'eau des deux autres demandes de brevet, où le filtre est rapproché du point d'utilisation.  This problem does not normally arise with the water dispensers of the other two patent applications, where the filter is closer to the point of use.
Il n'en reste pas moins que l'eau n'y est pas distribuée dans des conditions optimales, en raison du fait que le filtre est refroidi par lès moyens de réfrigération servant à abaisser la température de l'eau à distribuer. Il en résulte que l'eau en sortie du filtre est à une température imposée par les moyens de réfrigération et arrive, en pratique, au point d'utilisation, avec une température de l'ordre de 4-5 °C, alors que l'eau rafraîchie est usuellement distribuée à des températures généralement comprises entre 10 et 15 °C.  Nevertheless, the water is not distributed under optimal conditions, because the filter is cooled by the refrigeration means for lowering the temperature of the water to be dispensed. As a result, the water leaving the filter is at a temperature imposed by the refrigeration means and arrives, in practice, at the point of use, with a temperature of the order of 4-5 ° C., while Refreshed water is usually dispensed at temperatures generally between 10 and 15 ° C.
La présente invention a, d'une manière générale, pour objet des dispositions permettant d'éviter ces inconvénients et conduisant en outre à d'autres avantages. Elle a notamment pour but de réaliser un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson permettant une distribution de cette eau dans des conditions optimales. The present invention generally relates to provisions to avoid these disadvantages and further leading to other advantages. One of its aims is to produce a drinking-water dispensing apparatus for dispensing this water in optimal conditions.
De manière plus précise, elle a pour objet un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson, comportant :  More specifically, it relates to a drinking water dispensing apparatus comprising:
une extrémité d'entrée d'eau de boisson à distribuer dans l'appareil et une extrémité opposée de distribution d'eau ;  an inlet end of drinking water to be dispensed into the apparatus and an opposite end of water supply;
un circuit de distribution de l'eau de boisson, s'étendant entre les extrémités d'entrée et de distribution ;  a drinking water distribution circuit extending between the inlet and the dispensing ends;
- des moyens de réfrigération adaptés à abaisser la température de l'eau de boisson circulant dans le circuit de distribution ;  - Cooling means adapted to lower the temperature of the drinking water circulating in the distribution circuit;
des moyens de purification de l'eau de boisson rafraîchie par les moyens de réfrigération, agencés à l'extrémité de distribution ;  means for purifying the drinking water cooled by the cooling means, arranged at the dispensing end;
caractérisé en ce que les moyens de purification sont logés dans un compartiment isolé thermiquement des moyens de réfrigération.  characterized in that the purification means are housed in a thermally insulated compartment of the refrigeration means.
Grâce à ces dispositions, l'eau est en mesure d'être distribuée par l'appareil dans des conditions sanitaires et de température optimisées, les moyens de purification étant situés à proximité des points d'utilisation et n'étant pas sous influence directe des moyens de réfrigération.  Thanks to these arrangements, the water is able to be distributed by the apparatus under optimized sanitary and temperature conditions, the purification means being located close to the points of use and not being under the direct influence of the units. refrigeration means.
Suivant des dispositions particulières, éventuellement combinées et choisies notamment pour des raisons de commodité de fabrication, de coût et/ou d'efficacité de fonctionnement :  According to particular provisions, possibly combined and chosen especially for reasons of convenience of manufacture, cost and / or operating efficiency:
l'appareil comporte des moyens de réfrigération secondaires adaptés à abaisser la température des moyens de purification et/ou du compartiment dans lequel ils sont logés.  the apparatus comprises secondary refrigeration means adapted to lower the temperature of the purification means and / or the compartment in which they are housed.
l'appareil comporte un premier compartiment pour les moyens de réfrigération et un second compartiment pour les moyens de purification, situé au-dessus du premier compartiment et séparé de celui-ci par une cloison en matériau isolant.  the apparatus comprises a first compartment for the refrigeration means and a second compartment for the purification means, located above the first compartment and separated therefrom by a wall of insulating material.
- l'appareil comporte un caisson déporté formant le compartiment à la faveur duquel sont logés les moyens de purification. le circuit de distribution comporte un passage de dérivation contournant les moyens de purification formés par un filtre, et dans lequel l'eau rafraîchie circule dans un mode de nettoyage de l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson. - The apparatus comprises a remote box forming the compartment for which are housed the purification means. the distribution circuit comprises a bypass passage bypassing the purification means formed by a filter, and wherein the cooled water circulates in a cleaning mode of the drinking water dispensing apparatus.
- les moyens de purification comportent au moins un filtre à charbon actif.  the purification means comprise at least one activated carbon filter.
les moyens de purification comportent en outre un stérilisateur à lampe à rayons UV.  the purification means further comprise a UV lamp sterilizer.
les moyens de réfrigération secondaires comportent un échangeur tubulaire dans lequel circule un fluide de refroidissement issu des moyens de réfrigération ou d'un système frigorifique secondaire.  the secondary refrigeration means comprise a tubular exchanger in which circulates a cooling fluid from the refrigeration means or a secondary refrigerating system.
les moyens de réfrigération secondaire comportent un échangeur de refroidissement par contact direct avec le corps d'un filtre formant moyens de purification et refroidi par contact direct avec les moyens de réfrigération.  the secondary refrigeration means comprise a cooling exchanger by direct contact with the body of a filter forming purification means and cooled by direct contact with the refrigeration means.
- les moyens de réfrigération se présentent sous la forme d'un banc de glace ou d'un bain d'eau refroidie.  - The refrigeration means are in the form of a bench of ice or a cooled water bath.
l'appareil comporte des moyens de prétraitement en amont des moyens de réfrigération.  the apparatus comprises pretreatment means upstream of the refrigeration means.
l'appareil comporte un chauffe-eau propre à permettre la stérilisation d'au moins une partie du circuit de distribution au moyen d'eau chaude.  the apparatus comprises a water heater adapted to allow the sterilization of at least a portion of the distribution circuit by means of hot water.
l'appareil comporte un générateur d'ozone, adapté à alimenter le circuit de distribution en ozone et agencé au voisinage de l'extrémité d'entrée d'eau dans l'appareil.  the apparatus comprises an ozone generator adapted to supply the ozone distribution circuit and arranged in the vicinity of the water inlet end in the apparatus.
- le circuit de distribution comporte une tubulure terminale formant au moins un point d'utilisation d'eau de boisson à distribuer et raccordé à une vanne de distribution à chaque point d'utilisation.  - The distribution circuit comprises a terminal pipe forming at least one drinking water use point to be dispensed and connected to a dispensing valve at each point of use.
la tubulure terminale présente, à chaque point d'utilisation, un tube en forme de serpentin à l'intérieur duquel est logée une lampe à rayons UV. l'appareil comporte des moyens de commande assurant le fonctionnement de l'appareil de distribution d'eau dans un mode de distribution d'eau ou dans un mode de nettoyage. the terminal tubing has, at each point of use, a serpentine tube inside which is housed a UV lamp. the apparatus comprises control means ensuring the operation of the water dispensing apparatus in a water delivery mode or in a cleaning mode.
les moyens de commande comportent des électrovannes pilotées par un temporisateur électronique.  the control means comprise solenoid valves controlled by an electronic timer.
Suivant un développement, original en soi, de l'invention, les moyens de mise en circulation d'un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson comportent un passage de dérivation contournant des moyens de purification formés par un filtre, par exemple ceux définis supra, et dans lequel l'eau, non filtrée et éventuellement rafraîchie, circule dans un mode de nettoyage de l'appareil de distribution d'eau.  According to a development, which is original in itself, of the invention, the means for circulating a drinking-water distribution apparatus comprise a bypass passage bypassing purification means formed by a filter, for example those defined above. and wherein the water, unfiltered and optionally refreshed, circulates in a cleaning mode of the water dispensing apparatus.
Il est ainsi possible de nettoyer les moyens de mise en circulation, c'est-à-dire en pratique le circuit de distribution d'eau de l'appareil, en aval du filtre, avec de l'eau chlorée, c'est-à-dire de l'eau dont le chlore n'a pas été retenu par le filtre.  It is thus possible to clean the circulation means, that is to say in practice the water distribution circuit of the apparatus, downstream of the filter, with chlorinated water, that is, that is to say water whose chlorine has not been retained by the filter.
D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description de modes de réalisation de l'invention qui suivent, faite à titre illustratif et nullement limitatif, en se référant aux dessins schématiques ci- annexés sur lesquels :  Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the description of embodiments of the invention which follow, given by way of illustration and in no way limitative, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings in which:
- la figure 1 est une vue schématique d'un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson conforme à un premier mode de réalisation de la présente invention ;  Figure 1 is a schematic view of a drinking water dispensing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
la figure 2 est une vue schématique d'une deuxième mode de réalisation de cette invention ;  Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of this invention;
- les figures 3 et 4 sont, à échelle différente, des vues de côté schématiques suivant des directions perpendiculaires d'un caisson isolant à deux compartiments conformes à la présente invention et illustrant plus particulièrement un mode de réalisation des moyens de réfrigération secondaires ; et  - Figures 3 and 4 are, on a different scale, schematic side views in perpendicular directions of an insulating box with two compartments according to the present invention and illustrating more particularly an embodiment of the secondary refrigeration means; and
- la figure 5 est une vue schématique illustrant un aspect, original en soi, de la présente invention. En référence à la figure 1 , un appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson 1 , conforme à l'invention comporte un caisson isolant 2 à deux compartiments traversé par un circuit de distribution 3 de l'eau à distribuer (c'est-à-dire un ensemble de tuyauteries assurant l'écoulement de l'eau à distribuer), s'étendant entre une extrémité d'entrée 4 d'eau à distribuer dans l'appareil et une extrémité opposée de distribution 5 d'eau, à la faveur duquel sont logés des moyens de réfrigération 6 adaptés à abaisser la température de l'eau à distribuer et circulant dans le circuit de distribution, ainsi que des moyens de purification 7 de cette eau à distribuer et rafraîchie par ces moyens de réfrigération, agencés à l'extrémité de distribution. FIG. 5 is a schematic view illustrating an aspect, original in itself, of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, a drinking water dispensing apparatus 1, according to the invention comprises an insulating casing 2 with two compartments through which a distribution circuit 3 of the water to be dispensed (that is, say, a set of pipes ensuring the flow of the water to be dispensed), extending between an inlet end 4 of water to be dispensed in the apparatus and an opposite end of water distribution, at the for which are accommodated refrigeration means 6 adapted to lower the temperature of the water to be dispensed and circulating in the distribution circuit, and purification means 7 of the water to be dispensed and cooled by these cooling means, arranged to the distribution end.
Dans le cas du présent mode de réalisation, l'appareil comporte également des moyens de réfrigération secondaires 8, adaptés à abaisser la température du compartiment 9 dans lequel sont logés les moyens de purification.  In the case of the present embodiment, the apparatus also comprises secondary refrigeration means 8, adapted to lower the temperature of the compartment 9 in which are housed the purification means.
Plus précisément, le circuit de distribution comporte, à l'extrémité d'entrée d'eau de boisson à distribuer un raccord 10 pour le branchement d'un tube d'arrivée d'eau raccordé, par exemple, au réseau d'eau potable du local dans lequel est installé l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson.  More specifically, the distribution circuit comprises, at the drinking water inlet end to dispense a connection 10 for the connection of a water inlet pipe connected, for example, to the drinking water network. the room in which the drinking-water distribution apparatus is installed.
Il comporte ensuite, en amont du caisson isolant, un clapet anti- retour 1 1 , une électrovanne d'entrée et de sécurité 13 pour commander le débit d'eau entrant dans l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson et commandé de concert avec des électrovannes de distribution d'eau rafraîchie et d'eau chaude, décrites plus en détail ci-après.  It then comprises, upstream of the insulating box, a non-return valve 1 1, an inlet and safety solenoid valve 13 for controlling the flow of water entering the drinking-water distribution apparatus and controlled in concert. with solenoid valves for cooling water supply and hot water, described in more detail below.
Un filtre de prétraitement 12, ici à sédiments, est raccordé fluidiquement à l'entrée de l'électrovanne d'entrée et de sécurité pour retenir les polluants flottant dans l'eau du réseau d'eau potable (tartre, sable, terre, ...) et sur la sortie de l'électrovanne 13 est monté un Venturi 14 pourvu d'une ouverture d'entrée communiquant avec un générateur d'ozone 15 en vue de pouvoir faire fonctionner l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson en mode de nettoyage au moyen d'eau ozonée. Le circuit comporte, en aval de ce Venturi, une tubulure 16 pourvue d'une partie en forme de serpentin 17, plongée dans les moyens de réfrigération. A pretreatment filter 12, here with sediment, is fluidly connected to the entrance of the inlet and safety solenoid valve to retain pollutants floating in the drinking water system water (scale, sand, earth,. ..) and on the output of the solenoid valve 13 is mounted a Venturi 14 provided with an inlet opening communicating with an ozone generator 15 in order to be able to operate the drinking water dispensing apparatus in cleaning method using ozonated water. The circuit comprises, downstream of this Venturi, a tubing 16 provided with a coil-shaped portion 17, immersed in the refrigeration means.
Ces moyens de réfrigération se présentent, ici, sous la forme d'un banc de glace, à savoir un serpentin périphérique 18 dans lequel circule un gaz frigorigène, par exemple du fréon, qui abaisse la température de l'eau à son voisinage jusqu'à y créer un banc de glace périphérique, lequel abaisse à son tour progressivement la température de l'eau jusqu'au centre du compartiment 19 du caisson isolant recevant cette eau, lequel compartiment est parcouru par la partie en forme de serpentin précitée et dans lequel circule l'eau à rafraîchir.  These refrigeration means are here in the form of a bank of ice, namely a peripheral coil 18 in which circulates a refrigerant gas, for example freon, which lowers the temperature of the water in its vicinity until creating a peripheral ice bank therein, which in turn gradually lowers the temperature of the water to the center of the compartment 19 of the insulating box receiving this water, which compartment is traversed by the aforementioned serpentine-shaped part and in which circulates the water to refresh.
Le serpentin périphérique joue ainsi le rôle d'évaporateur d'un circuit de refroidissement comportant notamment aussi un compresseur. Ce dernier n'a pas été représenté sur les dessins et il en va de même du reste des éléments constitutifs du circuit de refroidissement, s'agissant d'éléments classiques bien connus dans le domaine technique de l'invention.  The peripheral coil thus acts as an evaporator of a cooling circuit including in particular also a compressor. The latter has not been shown in the drawings and the same is true of the rest of the components of the cooling circuit, being conventional elements well known in the technical field of the invention.
En particulier, une pompe d'agitation 20 de l'eau de refroidissement est généralement prévue, pour répartir correctement les frigories et ainsi assurer un refroidissement uniforme de l'eau.  In particular, a cooling water stirring pump 20 is generally provided for correctly distributing the frigories and thus ensuring uniform cooling of the water.
L'extrémité aval de cette tubulure est reliée par un raccord en T 21 à l'entrée d'un filtre à charbon actif, formant ici les moyens de purification 7 précités, et dont la sortie est raccordée à une tubulure terminale 22 du circuit de distribution, formant ici deux points d'utilisation 23, 24 pour la distribution d'eau de boisson rafraîchie.  The downstream end of this pipe is connected by a T-connector 21 to the inlet of an activated carbon filter, forming here the purification means 7 mentioned above, and the outlet of which is connected to a terminal pipe 22 of the cooling circuit. distribution, forming here two points of use 23, 24 for the distribution of refreshed drinking water.
A cet effet, cette tubulure terminale est munie, à chaque sortie, d'un raccord en T 25, 26 ayant chacun une sortie raccordée fluidiquement à l'une des électrovannes de distribution (sortie) 27, 28 d'eau de boisson mentionnées supra.  For this purpose, this terminal tubing is provided, at each outlet, with a T-connection 25, 26 each having an outlet fluidly connected to one of the dispensing valves (outlet) 27, 28 of drinking water mentioned above. .
La seconde sortie du raccord en T situé le plus en aval du circuit de distribution sur cette tubulure principale, est raccordée à une électrovanne de vidange 29 du circuit, à la sortie duquel est relié un tube de vidange 30 du circuit amenant l'eau de vidange du circuit de distribution, dans un mode de fonctionnement de nettoyage de l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson, dans un bac de vidange 31 , formant également support pour le ou les récipients destinés à recevoir l'eau de boisson à distribuer. The second outlet of the T-fitting located furthest downstream of the distribution circuit on this main pipe is connected to a drain solenoid valve 29 of the circuit, to the outlet of which is connected a discharge tube 30 of the circuit bringing the water of the draining the distribution circuit, in a cleaning operation mode of the drinking-water supply apparatus, in a drain tank 31, also forming a support for the container or containers for receiving the drinking water to be dispensed.
Dans le cas de ce mode de réalisation, un filtre à charbon actif 32 secondaire est par ailleurs agencé sur cette tubulure de vidange pour détruire l'odeur caractéristique de l'ozone.  In the case of this embodiment, a secondary activated carbon filter 32 is also arranged on this drain pipe to destroy the characteristic odor of ozone.
A son extrémité opposée, la tubulure terminale est reliée à la sortie du filtre à charbon actif principal au moyen d'un tube de liaison 33 et d'une électrovanne à trois voies 34 et un chauffe-eau 35 est disposé en situation d'échange de chaleur avec un tube de dérivation 36, en entrée de cette électrovanne trois voies.  At its opposite end, the terminal pipe is connected to the output of the main activated carbon filter by means of a connecting tube 33 and a three-way solenoid valve 34 and a water heater 35 is arranged in an exchange situation. of heat with a bypass tube 36, at the input of this three-way solenoid valve.
Le chauffe-eau sert, ici, à la stérilisation de la tubulure terminale de l'électrovanne 34 dans les cas où l'eau serait très peu chlorée.  The water heater is used here to sterilize the terminal pipe of the solenoid valve 34 in cases where the water is very low chlorinated.
La troisième voie de cette électrovanne est raccordée fluidiquement par le tube de dérivation 36 à la seconde sortie du raccord en T relié à l'entrée du filtre à charbon actif principal, en vue de pouvoir contourner ce filtre dans un mode de nettoyage de l'appareil de distribution d'eau, ainsi que cela sera décrit plus en détail ci-après.  The third channel of this solenoid valve is fluidly connected by the bypass tube 36 to the second outlet of the T-piece connected to the inlet of the main activated carbon filter, in order to be able to bypass this filter in a cleaning mode of the water dispensing apparatus, as will be described in more detail below.
On observera encore que chacune des sorties d'eau est munie d'une lampe de stérilisation 37, 38 par rayons UV et, à cet effet, chaque sortie est pourvue d'un tube de sortie 39, 40 ayant une partie en forme de serpentin entourant la lampe correspondante et réalisée en matière transparente aux UV, telle que du quartz ou du polytétrafluoroéthylène.  It will be further observed that each of the water outlets is provided with a sterilization lamp 37, 38 by UV rays and, for this purpose, each outlet is provided with an outlet tube 39, 40 having a coil-shaped portion surrounding the corresponding lamp and made of UV-transparent material, such as quartz or polytetrafluoroethylene.
Les sorties d'eau 23, 24 sont ainsi maintenues dans des conditions sanitaires optimales.  The outlets 23, 24 are thus maintained in optimal sanitary conditions.
Par ailleurs, le filtre à charbon actif principal est ici pourvu d'un clapet anti-retour 41 , 42 en entrée et en sortie.  Furthermore, the main activated carbon filter is here provided with a check valve 41, 42 at the inlet and at the outlet.
Dans le cas du présent mode de réalisation, le caisson isolant comporte un premier compartiment pour les moyens de réfrigération définis supra et un second compartiment 9 pour les moyens de purification (le filtre à charbon actif), situé au dessus du premier compartiment et séparé de celui-ci par une cloison 44 en matériau isolant (ici une plaque en polyuréthane) formant ici couvercle et servant à isoler thermiquement le second compartiment des moyens de réfrigération. In the case of the present embodiment, the insulating box comprises a first compartment for the refrigeration means defined above and a second compartment 9 for the purification means (the activated carbon filter), located above the first compartment and separated from this one by a partition 44 of insulating material (here a polyurethane plate) forming here cover and used to thermally isolate the second compartment of the refrigeration means.
On entend dans le cas de la présente invention par « isolé thermiquement », le fait que l'on dispose entre le compartiment logeant les moyens de purification et les moyens de réfrigération des moyens à faible conductivité thermique de manière à ce que les moyens de purification soient le moins possible sous l'influence de la température des moyens de réfrigération.  In the case of the present invention, the term "thermally insulated" means that between the housing housing the purification means and the refrigeration means there are means of low thermal conductivity so that the purification means as little as possible under the influence of the temperature of the refrigeration means.
Un couvercle 45 similaire recouvre une ouverture d'accès au second compartiment, à l'extrémité supérieure de ce dernier.  A similar cover 45 covers an access opening to the second compartment at the upper end thereof.
Grâce à ces dispositions, le filtre à charbon actif principal se trouve non seulement agencé à proximité immédiate des sorties de distribution d'eau de boisson, pour protéger ainsi une longueur maximale du circuit de distribution avec le chlore résiduel de l'eau arrivant en entrée de ce circuit et destiné à être retenu par le filtre, mais permet aussi de délivrer l'eau purifiée à des températures de distribution que souhaitent généralement les consommateurs pour de l'eau rafraîchie, soit de l'ordre de 10-15°C.  Thanks to these provisions, the main activated carbon filter is not only arranged in the immediate vicinity of the drinking-water distribution outlets, thus protecting a maximum length of the distribution circuit with the residual chlorine of the incoming water. of this circuit and intended to be retained by the filter, but also allows to deliver the purified water at dispensing temperatures that consumers generally want for fresh water, being of the order of 10-15 ° C.
En d'autres termes, l'eau est distribuée dans des conditions sanitaires et de température optimales.  In other words, the water is distributed under optimal sanitary and temperature conditions.
En outre, le filtre à charbon actif principal est facilement accessible pour son remplacement, en s'étendant, ici, horizontalement au-dessus des moyens de réfrigération, dans le second compartiment.  In addition, the main activated carbon filter is easily accessible for replacement, extending here, horizontally above the refrigeration means, in the second compartment.
Le caisson à deux compartiments offre par ailleurs une structure très compacte.  The box with two compartments also offers a very compact structure.
De plus, la structure conforme à l'invention permet de mettre en œuvre des moyens de réfrigération secondaires précités, afin d'ajuster au mieux la température de l'eau en sortie des moyens de purification, à savoir ici le filtre à charbon actif principal, en maintenant le second compartiment à la température requise pour cette température d'eau.  In addition, the structure according to the invention makes it possible to implement the aforementioned secondary refrigeration means in order to better adjust the temperature of the water at the outlet of the purification means, namely here the main activated carbon filter. keeping the second compartment at the required temperature for this water temperature.
En pratique, ils se présentent ici sous la forme d'un échangeur tubulaire 46 pour l'apport de frigories dans le second compartiment, dont la cloison en matériau isolant est, ici, pourvue d'une ouverture 47 par laquelle l'échangeur pénètre dans le second compartiment. Cet échangeur est alimenté par de l'eau glacée issue du banc de glace par un tube de liaison 48 raccordé fluidiquement à la pompe agitatrice du banc de glace, formant donc de ce fait également pompe de relevage. In practice, they are here in the form of a tubular exchanger 46 for the supply of frigories in the second compartment, the partition of insulating material is here provided with an opening 47 through which the exchanger enters the the second compartment. This exchanger is fed with ice water from the ice bank by a connecting tube 48 fluidly connected to the stirring pump of the ice bank, thereby also forming a lifting pump.
Grâce au banc de glace et à ces moyens de réfrigération secondaires, il est non seulement possible de tirer de l'eau à débit élevé mais aussi de disposer d'eau fraîche dès le premier gobelet.  Thanks to the ice bank and these secondary refrigeration means, it is not only possible to draw water at high flow but also to have fresh water from the first cup.
Par ailleurs, dans un mode de nettoyage, piloté par un temporisateur électronique 49 relié fonctionnellement aux différentes électrovannes, par exemple pour un rinçage une à plusieurs fois par jour, de l'eau ozonée produite grâce au générateur d'ozone de l'eau chaude ou de l'eau chlorée est envoyée dans le circuit de distribution en vue de son nettoyage.  Moreover, in a cleaning mode, controlled by an electronic timer 49 operatively connected to the different solenoid valves, for example for rinsing one to several times a day, the ozonated water produced by the ozone generator of hot water or chlorinated water is sent to the distribution circuit for cleaning.
D'une manière générale, le rinçage est prévu de préférence au moins une fois par jour pour éviter une stagnation prolongée d'eau sans chlore.  In general, the rinsing is preferably provided at least once a day to avoid prolonged stagnation of water without chlorine.
On observera que la présence d'électrovannes sur les sorties de distribution permet de nettoyer le circuit de distribution jusqu'aux points d'utilisation. Néanmoins, des robinets classiques sont envisageables à ces emplacements.  It will be observed that the presence of solenoid valves on the distribution outlets makes it possible to clean the distribution circuit up to the points of use. Nevertheless, conventional faucets are possible at these locations.
En outre, grâce à un développement avantageux et original en soi de la présente invention, le filtre à charbon actif principal est court-circuité dans ce mode de nettoyage par commande correspondante de l'électrovanne agencée en sortie de ce filtre : fermeture de son entrée raccordée au filtre et ouverture de son entrée raccordée au passage de dérivation.  In addition, thanks to an advantageous and original development of the present invention, the main activated carbon filter is short-circuited in this cleaning mode by corresponding control of the solenoid valve arranged at the output of this filter: closing its input connected to the filter and opening of its input connected to the bypass passage.
Ainsi, l'eau chlorée en provenance de l'entrée d'eau de l'appareil peut circuler jusqu'aux points d'utilisation pour nettoyer ainsi l'ensemble du circuit avec le chlore résiduel présent dans cette eau, sans qu'il soit retenu par le filtre.  Thus, the chlorinated water from the water inlet of the apparatus can circulate to the points of use to thus clean the whole circuit with the residual chlorine present in this water, without it being retained by the filter.
Le mode de réalisation de la figure 2 est similaire à celui de la figure 1. On n'en décrira par conséquent que les différences, les éléments identiques ou similaires sur les deux figures portant les mêmes repères numériques.  The embodiment of FIG. 2 is similar to that of FIG. 1. It will therefore be described only the differences, the identical or similar elements in the two figures bearing the same numerical references.
En pratique, ce mode de réalisation se distingue principalement de celui de la figure 1 par la mise en œuvre d'un second caisson isolant déporté formant le compartiment à la faveur duquel sont logés les moyens de purification 7, lesquels se présentent également dans le cas de ce mode de réalisation sous la forme d'un filtre à charbon actif. In practice, this embodiment is distinguished mainly from that of FIG. 1 by the implementation of a second remote insulating box forming the compartment for the benefit of which are housed the means of purification 7, which are also in the case of this embodiment in the form of an activated carbon filter.
L'échangeur de refroidissement de ce caisson isolant est alimenté par le banc de glace au moyen d'un tube de liaison 48 traversant, ici, une paroi du caisson, tout comme le retour de cet échangeur vers le banc de glace.  The cooling exchanger of this insulating box is fed by the ice bank by means of a connecting tube 48 through, here, a wall of the box, as the return of this exchanger to the ice bench.
La mise en œuvre d'un caisson déporté est particulièrement appropriée dans le cas où l'appareil de distribution d'eau se présente sous la forme d'une fontaine colonne.  The implementation of a remote box is particularly appropriate in the case where the water dispenser is in the form of a column fountain.
On notera encore que la simple séparation physique des deux compartiments isole déjà thermiquement le second compartiment des moyens de réfrigération.  It will be noted that the mere physical separation of the two compartments already thermally insulates the second compartment of the refrigeration means.
Les figures 3 et 4 représentent très schématiquement une variante de réalisation des moyens de réfrigération secondaires.  Figures 3 and 4 show very schematically an alternative embodiment of the secondary refrigeration means.
Ceux-ci comportent un échangeur 146 issu de pliage d'une plaque métallique de sorte à être adapté à un apport de frigories par contact direct avec les moyens de purification.  These comprise an exchanger 146 from folding a metal plate so as to be adapted to a supply of frigories by direct contact with the purification means.
Il forme, à cet effet, un berceau pour le filtre à charbon actif, dont les pieds 152, 153 reposent, à leurs extrémités longitudinales, sur la structure 154 du banc de glace et trempent, sur le reste de leur longueur dans le banc de glace.  It forms, for this purpose, a cradle for the activated carbon filter, whose feet 152, 153 rest, at their longitudinal ends, on the structure 154 of the ice bank and soak, for the rest of their length in the bench of ice cream.
L'appareil de distribution d'eau représenté sur la figure 5 montre que le passage de dérivation pour le filtre à charbon peut être mis en œuvre indépendamment du fait d'isoler thermiquement un second compartiment des moyens de réfrigération, mais également qu'il peut être mis en œuvre sur un filtre à charbon placé en amont de moyens de réfrigération.  The water distribution apparatus shown in FIG. 5 shows that the bypass passage for the carbon filter can be implemented independently of thermally isolating a second compartment of the refrigeration means, but also that it can be implemented on a carbon filter placed upstream of refrigeration means.
Plus généralement, il peut également être mis en œuvre dans un appareil de distribution d'eau dépourvu de moyens de réfrigération.  More generally, it can also be implemented in a water dispensing apparatus without refrigeration means.
On observera également que sur cette figure 5, ont été représentées les liaisons électriques entre le temporisateur électronique 249 et les différentes électrovannes 212, 227, 228, 229.  It will also be observed that in this FIG. 5, the electrical connections between the electronic timer 249 and the various solenoid valves 212, 227, 228, 229 have been shown.
Il convient encore d'être relevé, qu'en variante, les électrovannes de distribution peuvent être remplacées par des robinets mécaniques. Bien entendu, la présente invention n'est pas limitée aux modes de réalisation illustrés sur ces figures mais englobe toute variante de réalisation à la portée de l'homme du métier. It should also be noted that, alternatively, the distribution solenoid valves may be replaced by mechanical valves. Of course, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments illustrated in these figures but encompasses any variant within the scope of those skilled in the art.
En particulier, le circuit de distribution peut être adapté à distribuer également de l'eau tempérée ou chaude, notamment par la mise en uvre d'une tubulure de distribution correspondante, ainsi que d'un chauffe-eau et de filtres agencés de façon appropriée.  In particular, the distribution circuit can be adapted to also distribute temperate or hot water, in particular by the implementation of a corresponding distribution pipe, as well as a water heater and filters arranged appropriately .
Les moyens de refroidissement secondaires peuvent par ailleurs être alimentés par un fluide de refroidissement issu d'un bain d'eau refroidie ou d'un système frigorifique secondaire.  The secondary cooling means may also be supplied by a cooling fluid from a cooled water bath or a secondary refrigeration system.
Ils pourraient également, en cas de contact direct, tremper dans un tel bain d'eau refroidie.  They could also, in case of direct contact, soak in such a cooling water bath.
S'agissant des moyens de purification, il peut s'agir d'un ou plusieurs filtres, avec de préférence au minimum un filtre à charbon actif, le ou les autres filtres pouvant contenir d'autres média filtrants (résine échangeuse d'ions, membranes, polyphosphates, matériau absorbant ).  Regarding the purification means, it may be one or more filters, preferably with at least one activated carbon filter, the other filter or filters may contain other filtering media (ion exchange resin, membranes, polyphosphates, absorbent material).
Au lieu d'agencer la stérilisation par rayons UV sur les sorties, un stérilisateur à lampe à rayons UV peut être disposé dans le caisson logeant le filtre à charbon actif.  Instead of UV sterilization on the outlets, a UV lamp sterilizer can be placed in the housing housing the activated carbon filter.
La plaque de polyuréthane pourra, elle, être par exemple remplacée par une plaque de polystyrène.  The polyurethane plate may, for example, be replaced by a polystyrene plate.
Les lampes à rayons UV aux points d'utilisation peuvent, par ailleurs, être remplacées par un traitement à l'ozone ou un chauffage.  UV lamps at the point of use can also be replaced by ozone treatment or heating.
En mode nettoyage, l'eau ozonée peut aussi être remplacée par de l'ozone mise en circulation grâce à une pompe.  In cleaning mode, ozonated water can also be replaced by ozone circulated through a pump.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
1. Appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson, comportant : A drinking water dispensing apparatus, comprising:
une extrémité d'entrée (4) d'eau de boisson à distribuer dans l'appareil et une extrémité opposée (5) de distribution d'eau ;  an inlet end (4) of drinking water to be dispensed into the apparatus and an opposite end (5) of water supply;
un circuit de distribution (3) de l'eau de boisson, s'étendant entre les extrémités d'entrée et de distribution ;  a distribution circuit (3) for the drinking water, extending between the inlet and delivery ends;
des moyens de réfrigération (6) adaptés à abaisser la température de l'eau de boisson circulant dans le circuit de distribution ;  refrigeration means (6) adapted to lower the temperature of the drinking water circulating in the distribution circuit;
- des moyens de purification (7) de l'eau de boisson rafraîchie par les moyens de réfrigération, agencés à l'extrémité de distribution ;  means for purifying (7) the drinking water cooled by the cooling means, arranged at the dispensing end;
caractérisé en ce que les moyens de purification (7) sont logés dans un compartiment isolé thermiquement des moyens de réfrigération.  characterized in that the purification means (7) are housed in a thermally insulated compartment of the refrigeration means.
2. Appareil selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte des moyens de réfrigération secondaires (8) adaptés à abaisser la température des moyens de purification et/ou du compartiment dans lequel ils sont logés.  2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises secondary refrigeration means (8) adapted to lower the temperature of the purification means and / or the compartment in which they are housed.
3. Appareil selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que qu'il comporte un premier compartiment pour les moyens de réfrigération et un second compartiment (9) pour les moyens de purification, situé au-dessus du premier compartiment et séparé de celui-ci par une cloison en matériau isolant.  3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a first compartment for the refrigeration means and a second compartment (9) for the purification means, located above the first compartment and separated from that by a partition made of insulating material.
4. Appareil selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un caisson déporté formant le compartiment à la faveur duquel sont logés les moyens de purification.  4. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a remote box forming the compartment with which are housed the purification means.
5. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le circuit de distribution comporte un passage de dérivation (36) contournant les moyens de purification formés par un filtre, et dans lequel l'eau rafraîchie circule dans un mode de nettoyage de l'appareil de distribution d'eau de boisson.  5. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the distribution circuit comprises a bypass passage (36) bypassing the purification means formed by a filter, and wherein the cooled water circulates in a method of cleaning the drinking water dispensing apparatus.
6. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de purification comportent au moins un filtre à charbon actif. 6. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the purification means comprise at least one activated carbon filter.
7. Appareil selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de purification comportent en outre un stérilisateur à lampe à rayons UV. 7. Apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the purification means further comprises a UV lamp sterilizer.
8. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 7, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de réfrigération secondaires comportent un échangeur tubulaire (46) dans lequel circule un fluide de refroidissement issu des moyens de réfrigération ou d'un système frigorifique secondaire.  8. Apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the secondary refrigeration means comprise a tubular exchanger (46) in which circulates a cooling fluid from the refrigeration means or a secondary refrigeration system.
9. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 7, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de réfrigération secondaire comportent un échangeur de refroidissement (146) par contact direct avec le corps d'un filtre formant moyens de purification et refroidi par contact direct avec les moyens de réfrigération.  9. Apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that the secondary refrigeration means comprise a cooling exchanger (146) by direct contact with the body of a purification means filter and cooled by direct contact with the refrigeration means.
10. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 9, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de réfrigération se présentent sous la forme d'un banc de glace ou d'un bain d'eau refroidie.  10. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the refrigeration means are in the form of a bench of ice or a cooled water bath.
11. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 10, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte des moyens de prétraitement en amont des moyens de réfrigération.  11. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises pretreatment means upstream of the refrigeration means.
12. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 11 , caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un chauffe-eau (35) propre à permettre la stérilisation d'au moins une partie du circuit de distribution au moyen d'eau chaude.  12. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that it comprises a water heater (35) adapted to allow the sterilization of at least a portion of the distribution circuit by means of hot water.
13. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un générateur d'ozone, adapté à alimenter le circuit de distribution en ozone et agencé au voisinage de l'extrémité d'entrée d'eau dans l'appareil.  13. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that it comprises an ozone generator adapted to supply the ozone distribution circuit and arranged in the vicinity of the water inlet end. in the device.
14. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 13, caractérisé en ce que le circuit de distribution comporte une tubulure terminale formant au moins un point d'utilisation d'eau de boisson à distribuer et raccordé à une vanne de distribution à chaque point d'utilisation. 14. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the distribution circuit comprises a terminal pipe forming at least one point of drinking water use to be dispensed and connected to a dispensing valve at each point of use.
15. Appareil selon la revendication 14, caractérisé en ce que la tubulure terminale présente, à chaque point d'utilisation, un tube en forme de serpentin à l'intérieur duquel est logée une lampe à rayons UV. 15. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the terminal tubing has, at each point of use, a serpentine tube inside which is housed a UV lamp.
16. Appareil selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 15, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte des moyens de commande assurant le fonctionnement de l'appareil de distribution d'eau dans un mode de distribution d'eau ou dans un mode de nettoyage.  16. Apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that it comprises control means ensuring the operation of the water dispensing apparatus in a water distribution mode or in a mode of operation. cleaning.
17. Appareil selon la revendication 16, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de commande comportent des électrovannes pilotées par un temporisateur électronique.  17. Apparatus according to claim 16, characterized in that the control means comprise solenoid valves controlled by an electronic timer.
EP12717392.0A 2011-04-07 2012-03-27 Appliance for dispensing drinking water Withdrawn EP2694430A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1153042A FR2973791B1 (en) 2011-04-07 2011-04-07 APPARATUS FOR DISPENSING DRINKING WATER
PCT/FR2012/050636 WO2012136915A1 (en) 2011-04-07 2012-03-27 Appliance for dispensing drinking water

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EP2694430A1 true EP2694430A1 (en) 2014-02-12

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EP12717392.0A Withdrawn EP2694430A1 (en) 2011-04-07 2012-03-27 Appliance for dispensing drinking water

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EP (1) EP2694430A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2973791B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2012136915A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2953889B1 (en) 2013-02-05 2020-11-25 F.R.I.D.A. S.r.l. Liquid container for beverage dispensers and beverage dispenser comprising said container
ITBO20130052A1 (en) * 2013-02-05 2014-08-06 F R I D A S R L DISTRIBUTOR OF BEVERAGES AND WATER SUPPLY TANK FOR SUCH DISTRIBUTOR
FR3005044B1 (en) * 2013-04-29 2016-02-05 Trefle Groupe INTEGRATED FILTER RESERVOIR AND BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS COMPRISING SUCH A RESERVOIR
FR3005043B1 (en) * 2013-04-29 2016-01-01 Trefle Groupe INTEGRATED FILTER RESERVOIR AND BEVERAGE DISPENSING APPARATUS COMPRISING SUCH A RESERVOIR

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US6312589B1 (en) * 1997-12-23 2001-11-06 The Coca-Cola Company Apparatus arranged to provide controllable water treatment customized to the conditions of water supplied to a beverage dispenser
WO2003031351A1 (en) * 2001-10-08 2003-04-17 Heyning Hendrik Willem Lambert System for purifying water and method for dispensing purified water
IL153384A0 (en) * 2002-02-01 2003-11-23 Waterlogic Mfg Co Ltd Water dispenser
US7861550B2 (en) * 2007-03-26 2011-01-04 Natural Choice Corporation Water dispenser
GB2450518B (en) * 2007-06-28 2012-04-04 Ebac Ltd Point-of-use drinking water cooler
KR100900300B1 (en) * 2009-02-23 2009-06-02 주식회사 크로버 Water dispenser

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WO2012136915A1 (en) 2012-10-11
FR2973791B1 (en) 2014-09-12
FR2973791A1 (en) 2012-10-12

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