ELECTRONIC FAUCET, METHOD OF COUPLING BETWEEN A SOURCE OF CONDITIONED WATER OR FLUID AND A FAUCET AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AN ELECTRONIC FAUCET

Abstract

An electronic device includes a data processing unit for receiving an identifying signal of a first source of conditioned water or fluid for being modularly connected to any of a plurality of inlets of a faucet. The inlets are directly realized on said faucet or realized in a connection module connected to the faucet. The electronic device includes at least a first command for selecting a supply of an outlet of the faucet with a fluid coming from an inlet of said faucet. The first command is operatively connected to said data processing unit. Said data processing unit is configured for assigning to the first command a logical association between the first source and an inlet to which the first source is connected, so that said first command, when activated, recalls the logical association and causes a supply of the outlet with a fluid supplied from said first source.

Claims

1. An electronic device for controlling a faucet, the electronic device comprising a data processing unit configured for receiving in input at least an identifying signal of at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid of a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid-configured for being modularly connected to any of a plurality of inlets of said faucet, said plurality of inlets being directly realized on said faucet or being realized in at least a connection module configured for being connected to the faucet; the electronic device comprising at least a first command for selecting a supply of an outlet of the faucet with a fluid coming from at least an inlet of the plurality of inlets of said faucet; said at least a first command being operatively connected to said data processing unit; said data processing unit being configured for assigning to said at least a first command a logical association between said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid and an inlet of said plurality of inlets to which the first source of conditioned water or fluid is connected, so that said first command, when activated, recalls the logical association and causes a supply of the outlet of said faucet with a fluid supplied from said first source of conditioned water or fluid on said inlet to which the first source of conditioned water or fluid is connected, by making said inlet a first, specific, inlet logically associated to said first source of conditioned water or fluid.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein the inlets of said plurality of inlets are equal among them and are configured for being selectively pairable, indifferently, to each source of said plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid and/or wherein the data processing unit is configured for storing, in a memory operatively associated to said data processing unit and in a way at least partially automated, the logical association between said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid and said first inlet of said plurality of inlets; wherein said logical association is a univocal logical association, and wherein said data processing unit is configured for receiving in input said identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid on a wired data transmission channel and/or on a wireless data transmission channel.

3. The device according to claim 1, comprising a wired transmission channel comprising at least one among: a common data bus for at least the reception of said identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid or of a second source of conditioned water or fluid of said plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid, and wherein said data processing unit is configured for storing said logical association through the reception of said identifying signal on said data bus, said identifying signal being an identifying signal univocally identifying a specific source of conditioned water or fluid, in particular said first source of conditioned water or fluid, a plurality of data lines each one univocally associated to a respective inlet of said plurality of inlets, and wherein said data processing unit is configured for storing said logical association through the reception of said identifying signal of the first source of conditioned water or fluid on a data line of said plurality of data lines univocally associated to said first inlet.

4. The device according to claim 1, wherein said signal is a signal transmitted from said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid and/or wherein said signal is an electromagnetic signal.

5. The device according to claim 1, comprising a wireless data transmission channel, in particular a radiofrequency wireless transmission channel, and comprising at least an antenna operatively connected to said data processing unit, wherein said data processing unit is configured for storing said logical association through the reception of said identifying signal through said antenna, said identifying signal being an identifying signal univocally identifying a specific source of conditioned water or fluid, in particular said first source of conditioned water or fluid; said electronic device comprising a reader for wireless tags, operatively connected to said data processing unit and configured and specifically destined to read a wireless tag positioned on said first source of conditioned water or fluid and to receive said identifying signal at a connection of the first source of conditioned water or fluid to said first inlet, said reader for wireless tags being optionally positioned in substantial correspondence of said first inlet.

6. The device according to claim 2, wherein said data processing unit, when said at least a first command is activated, is configured for: searching in said memory the logical association corresponding to said first command, transmitting at least one between a signal of activation toward said first source of conditioned water or fluid and a signal of opening of at least a valve operatively associated to said first inlet for determining the supply of the outlet of the faucet through water coming from said first source of conditioned water or fluid and/or from said first inlet; wherein transmitting said at least one between the signal of activation toward said first source of conditioned water or fluid and the signal of opening of said at least a valve operatively associated to said first inlet takes place on said data bus or on said data line operatively associated to said first inlet or on said wireless data transmission channel.

7. The device according to claim 3, wherein the valve is positioned within said faucet or is positioned within said first source of conditioned water or fluid.

8. An electronic faucet for water dispensing, comprising: a body of the faucet; a dispensing command for adjusting at least one between a water flow and a temperature of the water, said dispensing command being installed on said body; an outlet for water dispensing, positioned in a predefined ending position of said body; a plurality of inlets modularly selectable and/or installable, each of which is configured and specifically destined to be connected with any source of conditioned water or fluid of a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid configured for supplying in use conditioned water or fluid to said faucet; and an electronic device according to claim 1.

9. The electronic faucet according to claim 8, comprising at least one connection module modules for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid, and wherein at least part of the inlets of said plurality of inlets is arranged on said at least one connection module; wherein at least a first part of said plurality of inlets is arranged on said at least a module and wherein a second part of said plurality of inlets is directly connected to the body of the faucet and wherein the at least one module is configured and specifically destined to be connected to an inlet of a further connection module for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid or to one of the inlets of the second part of said plurality of inlets.

10. A method of coupling between a source of conditioned water or fluid and a faucet, comprising: a supply of an electronic faucet for water dispensing, comprising a body, a dispensing command for adjusting at least one between a water flow and a water temperature, an outlet for water dispensing, positioned in a predefined ending position of said body, a plurality of inlets modularly selectable and/or installable, each of which is configured and specifically destined to be connected with any source of conditioned water or fluid of a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid configured for supplying in use conditioned water or fluid to said faucet and a command for the selection of the supply of conditioned water or fluid from at least an inlet of said plurality of inlets to said outlet; and a connection of a first source of conditioned water or fluid of said plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid to any inlet of a plurality of inlets of said faucet, said plurality of inlets being directly realized on said faucet or being realized in at least a connection module configured to be connected to the faucet.

11. The method according to claim 10, comprising a step of connection of at least one module for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid to the body of said faucet, in such a way that at least part of the inlets of said plurality of inlets is arranged on said at least one module, in such a way that at least a first part of said plurality of inlets is arranged on said at least one module and a second part of said plurality of inlets is directly connected to the body of the faucet, the at least a module being configured and specifically destined to be connected to an inlet of another module for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid or to one of the inlets of the second part of said plurality of inlets.

12. The method according to claim 10, comprising: a logical connection between said first source of conditioned water or fluid and a data processing unit of an electronic device operatively associated to said faucet, said logical connection determining a transmission of at least an identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid from the first source of conditioned water or fluid to the data processing unit, an assignation, at a first command of said faucet, of a logical association for the selection of a supply of the outlet of the faucet with a fluid coming from the inlet of the plurality of inlets of said faucet to which said first source of conditioned water or fluid is connected, said assignation making said inlet become a first inlet associated logically to said first source of conditioned water or fluid, and said assignation determining, at an activation of said first command, a subsequent step of supply of the outlet of said faucet with a fluid supplied by said first source of conditioned water or fluid on said first inlet, said step of supply taking place by effect of the activation of said first command.

13. The method according to claim 10, comprising a step of transmission of at least an identifying signal, said transmission being carried out from said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid and/or wherein said identifying signal is an electromagnetic signal.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein said association is a univocal logical association, the method comprising a storage at least partially automated, in a memory operatively associated to said data processing unit, of a logical association between said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid and said first inlet of said plurality of inlets, the logical connection between said first source of conditioned water or fluid and said data processing unit determining said step of transmission of said at least an identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid on a wired data transmission channel and/or on a wireless data transmission channel.

15. The method according to claim 10, comprising an activation of said first command and a subsequent step of supply of the outlet of said faucet with a fluid supplied from said first source of conditioned water or fluid on said first inlet, said step of supply taking place by effect of the activation of said first command.

16. The method according to claim 12, wherein said logical connection between said first source of conditioned water or fluid and said data processing unit determines the transmission of said at least an identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid on a wired data transmission channel comprising at least one among: a common data bus for at least the reception of said identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid or of a second source of conditioned water or fluid of said plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid, and wherein the storage occurs after a reception of said identifying signal on said data bus, said identifying signal being an identifying signal univocally identifying a specific source of conditioned water or fluid, in particular said first source of conditioned water or fluid, and a plurality of data lines each one univocally associated to a respective inlet of said plurality of inlets, and wherein the storage occurs after a reception of said identifying signal of the first source of conditioned water or fluid on the data line univocally associated to said first inlet.

17. The method according to claim 12, wherein said logical connection between said first source of conditioned water or fluid and said data processing unit determines the transmission of said at least an identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid on a wireless transmission channel, wherein at least an antenna is operatively connected to said data processing unit, and wherein the storage occurs after a reception of said identifying signal through said antenna, said identifying signal being an identifying signal univocally identifying a specific source of conditioned water or fluid.

18. The method according to claim 10, comprising a step of activation of said first command, a step of searching, in said memory, the logical association corresponding to said first command, and a step of transmission of at least one between a signal of activation toward said first source of conditioned water or fluid and a signal of opening of at least a valve operatively associated to said first inlet for allowing the supply of the outlet of the faucet through water or fluid coming from said first source of conditioned water or fluid and/or from said first inlet, said step of searching and said step of transmission taking place after, and as consequence, of said activation of said first command.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the valve is positioned within said faucet or is positioned within said first source of conditioned water or fluid and wherein the step of transmission of said at least one between the signal of activation toward said first source of conditioned water or fluid and the signal of opening of at least a valve occurs on said data bus or on said data line operatively associated to said first inlet or on said wireless data transmission channel.

20. The method according to claim 17, wherein said specific source of conditioned water or fluid is said first source of conditioned water or fluid, and wherein said logical connection between said first source of conditioned water or fluid and said data processing unit determines the transmission of said at least an identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid through a wireless tag positioned on said first source of conditioned water or fluid and comprises a reception of said identifying signal of said first source of conditioned water or fluid by a reader for wireless tags operatively connected to said data processing unit and configured and specifically destined to read the wireless tag positioned on said first source of conditioned water or fluid, said reader for wireless tags being positioned in substantial correspondence of said first inlet.

Description

FIGURES

[0231] Some embodiments of the invention subject of the present disclosure are described herein below; the following detailed description refers to the attached figures, a brief description of which is provided herein below.

[0232] FIG. 1 shows a faucet according to the present disclosure, in a schematical and non-limiting embodiment; the faucet is provided with an electronic device for controlling the dispensing of water from one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid.

[0233] FIG. 2 shows an alternative embodiment of the faucet according to the present disclosure.

[0234] FIG. 3 shows schematically a first embodiment of the faucet object of the present disclosure, wherein the electronic device comprises a data bus for the transmission of data of identification and/or control of one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid.

[0235] FIG. 4 shows schematically a second embodiment of the faucet object of the present disclosure, wherein the electronic device comprises a wireless channel for the transmission of data of identification and/or control of one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid.

[0236] FIG. 5 shows schematically a third embodiment of the faucet object of the present disclosure, wherein the electronic device comprises a plurality of data lines each operatively associated to a respective hydraulic inlet suitable for being connected with a respective source of conditioned water or fluid.

[0237] FIG. 6 shows a principle diagram of logical associations existing between a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid and a plurality of inlets of the faucet.

[0238] FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of a specific embodiment of the faucet object of the present disclosure wherein a reader of tag RFid is positioned in substantial correspondence of an inlet and is destined to the reading of a tag RFid of the source of conditioned water or fluid.

[0239] FIG. 8 shows a schematic representation of a hydraulic connection of a specific source of conditioned water or fluid.

[0240] FIG. 9 shows a first and specific variant of a type of command of the electronic device installed on the faucet object of the present disclosure. This specific variant comprises a plurality of buttons.

[0241] FIG. 10 shows a second and specific variant of a type of command of the electronic device installed on the faucet object of the present disclosure. This specific variant comprises a monitor.

[0242] FIG. 11 shows a third and specific variant of a type of command of the electronic device installed on the faucet object of the present disclosure. This specific variant comprises a first and a second mechanical command.

[0243] FIG. 12 shows a first configuration of a water supply system for a first particular source of conditioned water or fluid.

[0244] FIG. 13 shows a second configuration of a water supply system for a second particular source of conditioned water or fluid.

[0245] FIG. 14 shows a particular configuration of an electronic device object of the present disclosure.

[0246] FIG. 15 shows a first and a second configuration of association between a composite movement of a ring of command of the electronic device and a selection and/or dispensing of water from a source.

[0247] FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 show a first and a second schematic representation of a respective first and second screen present on a control monitor.

[0248] FIG. 18 shows a non-limiting embodiment of a source of conditioned water or fluid according to the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0249] The present disclosure refers to an electronic device 1 suitable for being associated to a faucet 10, in particular configured for being operatively connected with, or be part of, a faucet 10; also the present disclosure refers to a method of coupling between a faucet 10, and/or the electronic device 1, and one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid. Also the present disclosure refers to a method for controlling a faucet. The present disclosure also relates to an electronic faucet. In the following detailed description there will be not always an explicit differentiated reference to the specific configuration of the electronic device 1 and/or of the faucet 10 with respect to the method carried out by them (or with them). It is understood that where the faucet 10 and/or the electronic device 1 has determined technical characteristics or can be actuated in a determined manner, it will be clear that a corresponding embodiment method of the faucet 10 and/or of the electronic device 1, a corresponding method of coupling with a source of conditioned water or fluid and/or a corresponding controlling method for the faucet 10 shall be considered also disclosed.

[0250] For the purposes of the present disclosure, with fluid it is intended a drinkable fluid, preferably a fluid comprising one or more of the elements of the following list: wine, beer and their by-products, spirits, fruit juices, vegetable juices, fruit or vegetable smoothies, milk, yoghurt or by-products, creams, oils, vinegars of wine and of fruit, drinks added with proteins and/or vitamins.

[0251] The faucet 10 according to the present disclosure comprises a body 10B, an outlet 16 for water dispensing and at least a module 100a (connection module) having a plurality of inlets 12-15. In the embodiment the inlets are four, but this number is not to be intended in a limiting way. The module 100a is preferably arranged under the top 50 of the kitchen or of the sink and/or is configured for being hidden from the user's view in normal use of the faucet.

[0252] The module 100a can be integral with the body 10B of the faucet 10 or separated from it, in particular being a connection module 100a destined a be specifically installed and coupled on the body 10B of the faucet 10.

[0253] The inlets 12-15 are hydraulic inlets, which can be alternatively, or in combination, connected with the outlet 16 through an opportune command which will be better described in the following.

[0254] A dispensing command 10C is also present, and is coupled to the body 10B. This dispensing command 10C allows to vary the flow rate of the flow on the outlet 16 and/or allows to vary the temperature of the water produced on the outlet 16.

[0255] The dispensing command 10C can be installed on the body 10B of the faucet, as in the case of the attached figured, or can be installed in a position separate with respect to the body of the faucet 10. Some embodiments of the faucet 10 can comprise a first and a second dispensing command 10C; in this case, the first and the second dispensing command 10C can be installed in correspondence of the body 10B of the faucet 10 or at least one among the first command and the second dispensing command 10C can be installed in position separated with respect to the body of the faucet 10.

[0256] The faucet 10 comprises also a first operating inlet 11a for hot water and a second operating inlet 11b for cold water, of traditional type; the mixing of the water coming from said two inlets is traditionally controlled by the dispensing command 10C. Alternatively, the first and the second operating inlet 11a, 11b can be installed on the connection module 100a. The hot water and the cold water supplied on the first and on the second operating inlet 11a, 11b is supplied from a distribution network which preferably is a domestic distribution network.

[0257] To each of the inlets 12-15 is connected a respective source of conditioned water or fluid. The sources of conditioned water or fluid are indicated in the attached figures with the numerical references 22, 23, 24, 25. In the attached figures the sources of conditioned water or fluid are four, but this number should not be intended in a limiting way.

[0258] In an embodiment the inlets 12-15 are all provided with a same type of connector. In this embodiment, then, it is not possible to identify a precise destination of connection between a selected inlet and a specific source.

[0259] Generally the plurality of inlets 12-15 comprises equal inlets, equal in size and/or shape and/or color and/or conformation. In an embodiment each inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 is provided with an inlet with a screw inlet.

[0260] A first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 is for example a source of hot water, preferably configured for dispensing water at a temperature close to the boiling temperature, then at about 100 C.

[0261] A second source of conditioned water or fluid 23 is for example a source of cold water, preferably configured for dispensing water at a temperature close to the freezing temperature, for example water at about 5 C.

[0262] A third source of conditioned water or fluid 24 is for example a source of sparkling water, preferably configured for dispensing water added with carbon dioxide. This third source comprises a carbon dioxide adder. Conveniently, the carbon dioxide adder comprises a pressurized bottle, replaceable, for a controlled addition of carbon dioxide to the water dispensed through the outlet 16.

[0263] A fourth source of conditioned water or fluid 25 is for example a source of filtered water, preferably configured for dispensing water free of minerals and/or contaminants by means of a process of mechanical and/or chemical filtration.

[0264] In FIG. 2 is shown an alternative embodiment of the faucet 10 wherein the plurality of inlets 12-15 is installed on a plurality of connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c, and at least part of these connection modules is separable and configurable in a modular way on the body of the faucet 10. Also the connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c are destined to be installed under the top 50 of the kitchen or of the sink and/or are destined to be hidden from the user's view in normal use of the faucet.

[0265] In particular the non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 2 shows an embodiment wherein to the body 10B of the faucet 10 is connected in a direct way a first connection module 100a housing the first and the second operating inlet 11a, 11b; the second connection module 100b houses the first and the second inlet 12, 13, and the third connection module 100c houses the third and the fourth inlet 14, 15. Each one among the second connection module 100b and the third connection module 100c comprises an outlet connected with an inlet of inter-modular connection of the first connection module 100a.

[0266] Through this configuration is then generally possible to realize a step of connection of at least one, preferably a plurality of, connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid to the body of the faucet 10, in such a way that at least part of the inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15 is arranged on the plurality of connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c; optionally in such a way that at least a first part of the plurality of inlets 12-15 is arranged on each module of the plurality of connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c and a second part of the plurality of inlets 12-15 is directly connected to the body 10B of the faucet 10.

[0267] At least one of the modules of the plurality of connection modules 100a, 100b, 100c is configured and specifically destined to be connected to an inlet of another connection module 100a, 100b, 100c for the inlet of conditioned water or fluid or to one of the inlets of the second part of the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0268] The faucet 10 object of the present disclosure is then configured for allowing the modular connection of one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 to a respective inlet selected, in particular randomly, between the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0269] As it will be better clarified in the following portion of the description, each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is configured for, and specifically destined to, transmitting at least an own univocal identifying code, which in particular allows to distinguish it from the other sources. Different configurations of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 have been conceived, some capable of transmitting this univocal identifying code on a wired data channel, of dedicated or common type (data bus) and/or on a wireless data channel.

[0270] Said at least its own univocal identifying code is transmitted by means of a signal S of electromagnetic type.

[0271] If the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 are configured for transmitting the univocal identifying code on a wired data channel, each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 will be provided with its own data connector which allows the exchange of signals of an electrical and/or optical nature with the electronic device 1. In an embodiment, each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can optionally be provided with a button suitable for allowing the pairing (pair) in the mode herein described below.

[0272] The faucet 10 is configured for carrying out at least partially in an automatic way a identifying process of the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 and for allowing a logical association between a respective inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 and a selected source of the plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, so that through a command the dispensing of water through one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can be recalled without requesting the operator that carries out the installation of the faucet 10 to take care to connect in a specific way a determined source of conditioned water or fluid to a specific inlet 12-15. For this reason, the faucet herein described can be defined as smart faucet. In an embodiment, the operator which carries out the connection, can connect even randomly each source of the plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 on a respective inlet and start, or anyway wait for the completion of, a procedure of self-configuration after which the faucet 10 will have univocally correctly attributed the assignation between the command, and the opening of the valve of the correct inlet or of the correct inlets 12-15 corresponding to the specific and correct source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 for that command, or the sending of a dispensing command toward the specific and correct source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 for the specific control sequence.

[0273] The faucet 10 is conceived with the aim of simplifying the connection of the various sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 to the respective inlets 12-15, even if these inlets are aesthetically similar or even identical, preventing connection errors which could occur with the faucets according to the known art, because through a procedure of electronic association, carried out through a data processing unit, the selection of which specific inlet between the plurality of inlets present on the faucet is selected through a command is configured according to a procedure at least partially automated.

[0274] Thanks to this technical feature, it is not only no longer necessary to have a specific graphic and/or dimensional coding of each of the inlets 12-15, but it is also possible to use any one of the inlets of the faucet for connecting to any of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25. For this reason, even the flexibility of relative positioning existing between the faucet 10 itself and the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 in relation to the position and/or orientation of the inlets 12-15 is improved.

[0275] For allowing this technical function the faucet 10 is provided with an electronic device 1 which comprises at least a command 3, preferably a plurality of commands 3-5, for allowing the selection of which, among the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, using for the dispensing toward the outlet 16 of the faucet 10.

[0276] The electronic device 1 comprises a data processing unit 2 configured for receiving in input at least an identifying signal S of at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid 22, in use connected on a first inlet 12 of the plurality of inlets 12-15 of the faucet 10. The data processing unit 2 is configured for storing in a way at least partially automated a logical association 30 between the at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 and the first inlet 12 of the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0277] The data processing unit 2 can comprise a processor of general purpose type on which a predefined software program is executed, or can be supplied of a dedicated processor, and/or an AISC, and/or a small FPGA for carrying out the activities described in the present disclosure. Associated to the data processing unit 2, a memory, preferably non-volatile, contains data and/or the software program, necessary to execute the activities described in the present disclosure.

[0278] The software program comprises portions of code which can be written in any programming language. These portions of code, when executed, determine the execution of one or more of the steps of a method of coupling between a source of conditioned water or fluid and a faucet herein described and/or determine the execution of the method for controlling the faucet herein described.

[0279] The electronic device 1 can be configured for being operatively paired to a faucet 10, and can then be product or sold as a stand-alone device with respect to the faucet 10 itself. In an alternative embodiment, the faucet 10 comprises the electronic device 1, which is therefore an integral part of the faucet itself. Although an integral part, the faucet 10 and the electronic device 1 can be two distinct bodies.

[0280] The Applicant has conceived different embodiments of the electronic device 1, and then of the faucet 10, which will be discussed in detail herein below.

[0281] A first embodiment of the electronic device 1 is supplied of a data bus 43, operatively connected with the data processing unit 2 and in particular electrically connected with the data processing unit 2. On the data bus 43 are transmitted and received electronic data in form of an identifying signal S of one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25. In an embodiment, the data bus 43 is a data bus of serial type.

[0282] The data processing unit 2 carries out therefore an electronic procedure of reading of data transmitted on the data bus 43. It is noted that in particular the data bus 43 is bidirectional, and allows therefore both the reception of the data transmitted by the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, and the transmission of data toward the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 themselves.

[0283] As shown in FIG. 3, a particular embodiment of the data bus 43 is represented by a data bus of serial type, preferably of half-duplex type. In a non-limiting embodiment, the data bus 43 operates according to the standard EIA RS 485. EIA RS 485 identifies a specific ISO/OSI on a physical level for serial data transmission, of half-duplex and multipoint type.

[0284] Each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is provided with a respective connector for transmitting data on the data bus 43. This connector can be for example and non-limiting thereto a 5-pin connector and/or a tray connector. Each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is configured for transmitting on the data bus 43 an identifying signal S, which distinguish it with respect to the other sources of conditioned water or fluid which transmit on the data bus 43.

[0285] An operation of pairing is executed for allowing storing the logical association between a specific source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 and a specific inlet 12-15. This pairing operation represents an operating configuration of association, better described below, which can be activated for example through a particular combination of activation of the command present on the faucet 10 or through an external computer operatively associated to the electronic device 1 herein described.

[0286] The electronic device 1 is put in a particular operating configuration of association thanks to which the data processing unit 2 is put into a configuration that allows to listen on the data bus 43 quale between the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is transmitting an own identification code.

[0287] In this operating configuration, through the command 3, is selected an appropriate inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15. For example this appropriate inlet is the first inlet 12. Therefore the data processing unit 2 knows that it is hearing the sending of an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which is connected on the determined inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15, for example the first inlet 12. Then in this case the operator connects the source of conditioned water or fluid 22 on the first inlet 12 and puts the electronic device 1 in an operating configuration wherein it will remain, through the data bus 43, listening to an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 (for example, a hot identifying signal S, then associated according to the examples of the figures attached to the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22) which will be logically associated to the first inlet 12.

[0288] When the hot identifying signal S is received by the data processing unit 2, this data processing unit 2 memorizes the hot identifying signal S as an identifying signal associated to the first inlet 12. In this way the electronic device 1 will know which on the first inlet 12 is connected the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22.

[0289] In this operating configuration, always through the command 3 or through a second command 4, is selected an appropriate inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15. For example this inlet is the second inlet 13. Therefore the data processing unit 2 knows that it is hearing the sending of an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which is connected on the determined inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15, for example the second inlet 13. Then, in this case the operator connects the source of conditioned water or fluid 23 on the second inlet 13 and puts the electronic device 1 in an operating configuration wherein it will remain listening to, through the data bus 43, an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 (for example, a cold identifying signal S, indicative of the second source of conditioned water or fluid 23, in the examples of the figures) which will be logically associated to the second inlet 13.

[0290] When the cold identifying signal S is received by the data processing unit 2, this data processing unit 2 memorizes the cold identifying signal S come identifying signal associated to the second inlet 13. In this way the electronic device 1 will know which on the second inlet 13 is connected the second source of conditioned water or fluid 23.

[0291] The sequence proceeds with the remaining sources of conditioned water or fluid in a similar way; the sequence is therefore not repeated herein.

[0292] A second embodiment of the electronic device 1 object of the present disclosure is provided with a data processing unit 2 which is connected with, or integrates, a wireless electronic transceiver module in turn connected with an antenna 40. This second embodiment is represented in FIG. 4.

[0293] Each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is provided with a respective wireless transmission module, in turn connected with a respective antenna 42.

[0294] The process of operating configuration of association is similar to the one described above, but unlike the previous case, the bus 43 is replaced by a wireless channel.

[0295] Also in this case the electronic device 1 is put in a particular operating configuration of association thanks to which the data processing unit 2 is put into a configuration that allows to listen on the wireless channel which, between the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, is transmitting its identification code.

[0296] In this operating configuration, through the command 3, is selected an appropriate inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15. For example this appropriate inlet is the first inlet 12. Therefore the data processing unit 2 knows that it is hearing the sending of an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which is connected on the determined inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15, for example the first inlet 12. Then in this case the operator connects the source of conditioned water or fluid 22 on the first inlet 12 and puts the electronic device 1 in an operating configuration wherein it will remain, through the wireless channel and with the respective antenna 40, listening to an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 (for example, a hot identifying signal S) which will be logically associated to the first inlet 12.

[0297] When the hot identifying signal S is received by the data processing unit 2, this data processing unit 2 memorizes the hot identifying signal S as an identifying signal associated to the first inlet 12. In this way the electronic device 1 will know which on the first inlet 12 is connected the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22.

[0298] In this operating configuration, always through the command 3 or through a second command 4, is selected an appropriate inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15. For example this appropriate inlet is the second inlet 13. Therefore the data processing unit 2 knows that it is hearing the sending of an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which is connected on the determined inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15, for example the second inlet 13. Then in this case the operator connects the source of conditioned water or fluid 23 on the second inlet 13 and puts the electronic device 1 in an operating configuration wherein it will remain, through the wireless channel and with the respective antenna 40, listening to an identifying signal S of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 (for example, a cold identifying signal S) which will be logically associated to the second inlet 13.

[0299] When the cold identifying signal S is received from the data processing unit 2, this data processing unit 2 memorizes the cold identifying signal S as identifying signal associated to the second inlet 13. In this way the electronic device 1 will know which on the second inlet 13 is connected the second source of conditioned water or fluid 23.

[0300] Another embodiment of the electronic device 1 and then of the faucet 10 is furthermore represented in FIG. 5. In this embodiment, there is the presence of a dedicated data channel, specific for each source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25. This data channel is wired and on this channel data move signals of electrical and/or optical nature. A plurality of inlets data 41 is present on the electronic device 1. The number of inlets data 41 is equal to the number of inlets 12-15 of the faucet and each of the inlets data 41 is operatively and univocally pre-associated to a specific inlet between the inlets of the mentioned plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0301] In this specific embodiment is sufficient that each source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 transmits its own identifying signal S without prior need for the selection of a specific inlet 12-15.

[0302] In this specific embodiment, in the operating configuration of association, is sufficient that the operator proceeds with the connection for example of the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 with the first inlet 12 and with the connector of the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 to the data line 41, in particular the inlet data 41, associated to the first inlet 12 for causing that on this inlet data 41 is transmitted an identifying signal S of the first source of conditioned water or fluid 12 such as to allow the storage in a substantially automated way of the logical association of the first inlet 12 with the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22.

[0303] FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of an association stored inside the memory operatively accessible from the data processing unit 2; having four inlets and four sources of conditioned water or fluid, in the memory is present a table of at least two columns and four rows, each row identifying a logical association between an inlet and a specific source of conditioned water or fluid. This table is conveniently recalled at a dispensing of a particular typology of conditioned water or fluid.

[0304] Applicant has conceived a specific embodiment wherein the connector related to each of the inlets 12-15 embeds also the related data input 41. In this case, in use, the physical water connection of the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, and consequently of the remaining sources of conditioned water or fluid 23-25, determines automatically the connection of the source with the data line 41, in particular with the data input 41.

[0305] As shown in FIG. 7, another embodiment of the electronic device 1 and, then, of the faucet 10, is such that in substantial correspondence of each of the inlets 12-15 is provided a reader 61 of a wireless tag 60, for example a tag RFid, which allows the transmission of the identifying signal S of the specific source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25. In this case the wireless tag 60 can be arranged in correspondence of the hydraulic connector 26 of the source which, in use, is connected to one of the inlets 12-15, so that the approximation of the reader 61 and of the wireless tag 60 determines the possibility of reception, by the data processing unit 2, of said identifying signal S. Preferably, the reader 61 of tag RFid is positioned in substantial correspondence of the respective inlet 12-15. Through the tag RFid a wireless radio communication channel is realized over short or very short distances which advantageously allows the possibility of identifying the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 connected to the faucet 10 only if actually there is a connection with the hydraulic connector 26 (for example, as shown in FIG. 7, comprising a clamping nut). Therefore, false recognition of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 simply placed in proximity (for example 5 or 6 meters) of the faucet is avoided.

[0306] Different types of tag RFid can be used, but in a specific embodiment the tag RFid is passive. The reader 61 emits a radio signal and the power of the radio frequency signal is sufficient to activate the microchip of the tag RFid providing the energy needed to reply to the reader 61, retransmitting to it a signal containing the information stored in the microchip. Substantially, then, thanks to the technical features described above, it is not necessary that the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 have particular electronic intelligence; it is sufficient that they are capable of transmitting an identifying signal S.

[0307] To enable selective dispensing of water coming from one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid in a controlled way, as for example shown in FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, the body of the faucet 10 integrates a plurality of valves 18 (in figures with a number equal to four, then with a number equal to the number of inlets) each connected with a respective inlet 12-15. Each of these valves 18, alternatively to what is represented in figures, can be arranged on the respective source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0308] A control line 19 is supplied for determining an opening, a closing or a partialization of each of the valves 18, even independently of each other, according to the command 3-6 selected in use by the user. In use, on the control line 19 is provided a signal of activation of the valve 18; this signal of activation 18 is transmitted by the data processing unit 2.

[0309] As schematically shown in FIG. 8, it is noted that according to the practical point of view the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 is not connected directly with an inlet 12-15 of the faucet 10; a safety valve 22v is interposed between the source and the inlet of the faucet. In turn the safety valve 22v is paired to an anti-reflux device 22i comprising, preferably, a free-venting funnel or equivalent device, which is connected, through a connection 22r, to a sewage outlet duct. The purpose of the free-venting funnel or equivalent device is to allow the escape of the water possibly refluent from the sewage outlet prior to the contamination of the line of the source of conditioned water or fluid. The free-venting funnel then allows the water escaping from the safety valve 22v to be directed towards the sewage outlet, but if it were to reflux from the sewage outlet directly towards the safety valve 22v, the free-venting funnel would allow the water from the sewage outlet to escape into the environment without contaminating the existing line between the source of conditioned water or fluid 22 and the inlet 12-15 of the faucet 110. This line is in fact a line of clean or potable water, and must be safeguarded from contamination with dirty or non-potable water.

[0310] FIG. 9 shows a first configuration of the faucet 10 wherein the plurality of commands 3-6 is in form of separated buttons, arranged on the body of the faucet 10 in a basis portion 10T of the body 10B which lies, in use, above a top 50 of the sink; each of the aforementioned separated buttons is electronically connected with the data processing unit 2.

[0311] FIG. 10 shows a second configuration of the faucet 10 wherein the command 3 is a digital command which has a monitor 3m from which can be made to appear a plurality of icons 3k. This command 3 conveniently, in alternative or in combination with the abovementioned monitor 3m, can have a rotatable and/or axially movable annular ring for allowing a selection and/or a confirmation of which between the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 shall be selected for the dispensing from the outlet 16.

[0312] FIG. 11 shows a third configuration of the faucet 10 provided with a first and a second command 3, 4 in form of a mechanical switch which act respectively on one or more of the valves 18 through the control line 19. Also in this case the first and the second command 3, 4 are operatively connected with the data processing unit 2.

[0313] Although in FIGS. 9, 10, 11 are shown embodiments wherein the command 3 or the plurality of commands 3-6 is integrated in the body of the faucet, this specific configuration shall not be intended in a limiting way; in fact, in a non-limiting embodiment, the command 3 or the plurality of commands 3-6 can be integrated in a command module separated with respect to the body of the faucet 10. This command module is destined a be installed above the top 50 of the sink or of the kitchen; alternatively, this command module is destined to be embedded in the top of the kitchen or of the sink. Therefore it seems clear that the present disclosure shows a command module and/or an electronic device which can be remoteised with respect to the body of the faucet 10.

[0314] The Applicant has conceived a particular embodiment of the electronic device 1 wherein the at least a command 3 is virtual, and is shown in the form of a software platform on an electronic portable device, for example a smartphone mobile phone. Alternatively, this command 3 is electronically accessed through the electronic portable device.

[0315] At the dispensing of a particular typology of water from a specific source of conditioned water or fluid, a second of the specific configuration of the faucet 10 can occur different situations.

[0316] In particular, when each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 is always pressurized and/or ready to supply the inlet to which it is connected, is sufficient that at the selection of the dispensing with a specific association command-inlet, the valve 18 connected to the above-mentioned inlet is open, at least partially. If the valves 18 are arranged within the faucet 10, is not necessary to send any command of activation toward one of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0317] If, on the other hand, the valves 18 are arranged in correspondence of each of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 and/or if, independently of the position of the valves 18, the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 shall be activated, an appropriate signal of activation is transmitted toward the interested source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0318] If the embodiment of the electronic device 1 and/or of the faucet 10 is such to imply the presence of the data bus 43, the signal of activation is operatively associated to an identifying signal of the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 of interest. In this way the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can receive a signal which identifies it and downstream of this, be activated and/or determine the at least partial opening of the valve 18.

[0319] If the embodiment of the electronic device 1 and/or of the faucet 10 is such to imply the presence of a wireless transmission channel, also in this case the signal of activation is operatively associated to an identifying signal of the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 of interest.

[0320] If the embodiment of the electronic device 1 and/or of the faucet 10 is such to imply a data line 41, in particular at least an inlet data 41, selectively associated to each inlet, in this case it is not necessary to transmit the identified signal of the source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 of interest, since the identification of the latter is already automatically realized through a procedure of selection, by the data processing unit 2, of the specific inlet data 41 of interest which is paired with the association command-source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0321] FIG. 12 shows in particular a configuration known for the supply of water to a source of conditioned water or fluid 122 configured for dispensing water at a temperature close to the boiling temperature. In the known art from a domestic supply line derives not filtered water at a first pressure P1, for example and non-limiting thereto P1=3 bar.

[0322] The water coming from the domestic supply line is at first filtered by a filter 100, for example a mechanical filter, and subsequently supplied to a safety valve 122v which is a non-return valve.

[0323] The water exiting from the safety valve 122v is supplied toward a boiler 122 and is at a second pressure P2 higher with respect to P1. The second pressure P2 is for example 8 bar. Between the safety valve 122v and the boiler 122 is present an anti-reflux device 122i for example comprising a free-venting funnel, which is connected with a sewage outlet duct. The purpose of the free-venting funnel is to allow the escape of the water possibly refluent from the sewage outlet prior to the contamination of the line of the source of conditioned water or fluid. More in particular, the black water which would flow back through the sewage duct would be dispersed into the environment without being able to flow back to the clean water line, which in this way remains free of contamination.

[0324] The boiler 122 is an electrically powered boiler, preferably through the traditional electrical distribution network a 240 Vac or, if destined to industrial applications, a three-phase 380 Vac.

[0325] The safety valve 122v, the boiler 122, the anti-reflux device 122i and the filter 100 are separated units, which shall be connected between them with an adequate number of connections.

[0326] The Applicant has conceived a particular embodiment of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22 configured for dispensing water at a temperature close to the boiling temperature which in a unique unit, i.e. in a single casing, integrates a filter 22f, a safety valve 22v, and a boiler 22b.

[0327] The unit comprises an inlet 22k that is supplied with unfiltered water supplied from a domestic supply line. The water is supplied at the inlet at a first pressure, for example P1=3 bar.

[0328] The inlet 22k is directly connected with the filter 22f, which preferably but non-limiting thereto carries out a mechanical filtration of the water in order to remove macro particles and/or large amounts of minerals which could affect the operation of the boiler 22b. The outlet of the filter 22f is directly connected with the inlet of a safety valve 22v, which in particular is a non-return valve configured and specifically destined to allow the supply of water from its inlet to its outlet and for preventing the reflux of the water from the outlet toward the inlet. Downstream of the safety valve 22v, the water lies at a second pressure P2 higher than the first pressure P1. In a specific embodiment, the second pressure P2 is equal to 8 bars. The outlet of the safety valve 22v is connected with a three-way connector, in particular being connected on a first way of this connector. On a second way of this connector is connected the inlet of the boiler 22b, whose purpose is to bring the water there introduced at a temperature close to the boiling temperature. The outlet of the boiler 22b feeds directly the outlet of the unit 22u, the quale in turn is connected with the first inlet 12 of the faucet 10.

[0329] The third way of the connector is connected with the anti-reflux device 22i, which is positioned outside the unit, through an auxiliary outlet 22a of the unit. In a preferred but non-limiting embodiment, this device comprises a free-venting funnel, which is connected with a sewage outlet duct. The purpose of the free-venting funnel is to allow the escape of the water possibly refluent from the sewage outlet prior to the contamination of the line of the source of conditioned water or fluid. The anti-reflux device 22i shall be positioned at a height higher with respect to the height at which lies the siphon of the sewage outlet.

[0330] It is then also part of the present disclosure at least a source of conditioned water or fluid, in particular a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, suitable for being connected with the faucet 10. The source of conditioned water or fluid is configured for supplying in use at least a conditioned water or fluid for heating, in particular heating close to boiling temperature, cooling, in particular cooling close to freezing temperature, by gasifying, in particular by addition with carbon dioxide, and/or by filtration, in particular by mechanical or chemical filtration.

[0331] The plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 comprises at least a data transmitting module, configured for transmitting a univocal identifying signal S of a particular source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, in such a way that this source of conditioned water or fluid is electronically distinguishable and selectively activable with respect to other sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 simultaneously connected to the faucet 10.

[0332] The Applicant has specifically considered that the electronic device 1 and at least one of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can be sold in kit. Also, this kit can be realized from a faucet 10 and from one of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0333] Although reference has been made in this description to a faucet provided with four inlets (first inlet 12, second inlet 13, third inlet 14, fourth inlet 15) for sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, this number should not be understood in a limiting way, but allows to understand that the faucet herein described can allow the modular connection of many sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 and can in particular be supplied with a number of inlets lower or higher with respect to the one described.

[0334] It is furthermore noted that the presence of valves 18, in particular when positioned within the body 10B of the faucet, allows the functionality of the faucet even if some of its inlets 11-15 are not connected to any source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25.

[0335] In fact, by isolating through a respective closed valve 18 for example the third and the fourth inlet 14, 15, the faucet 10 in the specific embodiment herein described could maintain unaltered functionality. It is clear that part of the commands which control the supply of the third 14 and fourth 15 inlets would not work or should be excluded, but the commands relating to the connected inlets would instead be active and efficient. For this reason, conveniently the faucet 10 can be realized with a number of inlets 12-15 equal to the maximum number of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which one wants to operatively associate to the faucet 10, for then proceeding with the connection of for example two or three sources to any inlet between the plurality of inlets 12-15 (for example the second and the fourth inlet) and realizing the logical association of the commands with these inlets.

[0336] It is herein described a particular embodiment of the faucet 10 according to the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the electronic device comprises at least a first command 3 for selecting a supply of an outlet 16 of the faucet 10 with water coming from at least an inlet 12-15.

[0337] In this embodiment is always present the data processing unit 2 which, also in this case, is operatively associated to the first command 3. This data processing unit 2 is operatively connected to a memory.

[0338] The electronic device 1 is configured for being activated in at least a self-learning operating configuration wherein, the data processing unit 2, according to a connection of at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 to at least an inlet 12-15, determines automatically an enabling of at least a first combination of actuation of the first command 3 allowing a first configuration of supply of the outlet 16 by means of water coming from at least a first selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from a first selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0339] In other words, in the self-learning configuration, the faucet 10, through the electronic device 1 recognizes which source was connected to one or more of the inlets 12-15 and, basing on previously stored parameters and which will be described in more detail below, configures in an automatic way the command 3 so that behind a particular combination of activation it is possible to select precisely the source connected. For example, an operator connects a first source of sparkling water to one or more of the inlets 12-15 of the faucet 10, for example at the first inlet 12. The faucet 10, through the electronic device 1, recognizes that a source has been connected to the first inlet 12 and that this source is a source of sparkling water. The electronic device 1 associates automatically a command of left rotation of a ring of the command 3 in such a way that, when this ring is in use rotated to the left, sparkling water, coming from the above-mentioned source, is dispensed from the outlet 16.

[0340] For this reason, the first inlet or the first set of inlets is univocally associated, in an associative datum 30 stored in the memory, to the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22.

[0341] In the light of the above example, it is clear that the electronic device 1 is also configured for being activated in at least an operating configuration of dispensing. In this configuration, an activation of the first command 3 in the first combination of actuation determines, through the data processing unit 2 and in an automatic way, a loading of the first associative datum 30 from the memory, and a dispensing on the outlet 16 of water coming from the first selected inlet or by the first selected set of inlets according to the first associative datum 30.

[0342] Clearly, self-learning is not limited to a single source. Consequently, in the self-learning operating configuration, the data processing unit 2, according to a connection of at least a second source of conditioned water or fluid 23 of the plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 potentially connectable to the inlets 12-15, determines automatically an enabling of at least a second combination of actuation of the first command 3 allowing a second configuration of supply of an outlet 16 by means of water coming from at least a second selected inlet or from a second selected set of inlets.

[0343] Also in this case, the second inlet or the second set of inlets is univocally associated, in a second associative datum 30 stored in the memory, to the second source of conditioned water or fluid 23.

[0344] In the second operating configuration of dispensing, an activation of the first command 3 in the second combination of actuation determines, through the data processing unit 2 and in an automatic way, a loading of the second associative datum 30 from the memory, and a dispensing on the outlet 16 of water coming from the second selected inlet or by the second selected set of inlets according to the second associative datum 30.

[0345] From the electronic point of view, the activation of the first command 3 makes the data processing unit 2 transmit at least one among a signal of activation toward the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 or the second source of conditioned water or fluid 23 and a signal of opening of at least a valve 18 operatively associated to the inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15 of the faucet. This signal of activation, then, indirectly determining the supply of the outlet 16 of the faucet 10 through water coming from the first selected inlet or by the first selected set of inlets or, respectively, by the second selected inlet or by the second selected set of inlets.

[0346] FIG. 15 shows a specific and non-limiting embodiment of a command 3. This command comprises a controller and a monitor 3m. The monitor 3m can be considered optional for the purposes of the present disclosure. Where present, the monitor 3m is operatively connected with the controller, and is in particular electrically and/or optically connected with the controller.

[0347] The controller and the monitor 3m can be conveniently integrated with an attractive design in the body of the faucet, preferably in correspondence of the basis of the latter so that they are, in use, positioned a few centimeters from the base of the top 50 of the sink on which the faucet is installed. In an embodiment the monitor 3m is positioned a little above the dispensing command 10C, but this specific spatial arrangement should not be intended in a limiting way. In fact, in another embodiment, the monitor 3m can be positioned under the dispensing command 10C. This other embodiment is not shown. Preferably, the monitor 3m is inclined upwards in order to facilitate the reading by the user.

[0348] The controller is rotatable and/or translatable. In this way, the first and/or the second combination of actuation comprises a rototranslation of the controller.

[0349] Where present the monitor 3m, the activation of the command 3, in particular according to the first combination of actuation or the second combination of actuation, determines a transmission of a first and of a second signal S1, S2 to the monitor 3m.

[0350] In the self-learning operating configuration, the data processing unit 2 transmits an instruction signal S3 to the monitor 3m. This instruction signal can be useful for allowing the subject that is configuring the faucet 10 and the electronic device 1 to learn that the self-learning is ended and/or to learn how to perform the first and/or the second combination of actuation.

[0351] More specifically, the rotatable and/or translatable controller comprises at least a ring 3g clockwise or anti-clockwise rotatable and/or translatable. The translation of the ring 3g can take place: [0352] along a translation axis parallel to a rotation axis X of the ring; and/or [0353] along a first axis Y and, optionally in addition or alternatively, along a second axis Z which is (or are) orthogonal to the rotation axis X of the ring 3g.

[0354] It is noted that this first and second axis Y, Z are reciprocally orthogonal.

[0355] The ring 3g can then be activated by the user in a composite movement of rototranslation, thanks to which it is possible to associate a large number of controls, that in turn allows using a single ring for controlling a huge amount of sources of conditioned water or fluid all of them operatively associate to a single faucet.

[0356] It is noted that in a particular embodiment, the ring 3g can comprise at least a stable rest position and at least an unstable position. In this case the composite movement can determine a movement of the ring from the rest and stable position to the unstable position.

[0357] Returning again to signals S1 and S2, it is noted that these signals, when transmitted by the data processing unit 2 toward the monitor 3m, comprise at least one datum indicative of a conditioning of the water dispensed through the outlet 16 of the faucet 10, in particular one datum indicative of a temperature, and/or gasifying and/or filtration of the water dispensed through the outlet 16 of the faucet 10. This datum can cause the representation of symbols and/or alphanumeric characters associated with the specific typology of conditioning brought by the source of interest to the water. For example, where the source heats the water at a temperature close to the boiling temperature, the signal S1 or the signal S2 may cause the appearance of a red colored symbol, while where the source cools down the water at a temperature close to the freezing temperature, the signal S1 or the signal S2 may cause the appearance of a blue colored symbol. Also the first or the second signal S1, S2 can determine the appearance on the monitor 3m of a datum of temperature of the water dispensed through the outlet 16.

[0358] The symbol and/or alphanumeric characters presented on the monitor 3m can be fixed in time and remain visible for the entire duration of the dispensing, or be variable in time and/or remain visible for a time lower than the time of duration of the dispensing. In general, it can therefore be indicated that at least one among the first or second signal causes a time-variant graphical representation on the monitor 3m. Also, the transmission of the first and/or of the second signal S1, S2 from the data processing unit 2 to the monitor 3m can determine the identification of the source of conditioned water or fluid which is involved in the dispensing. In this case the first and/or the second signal S1, S2 contains an identifying datum of a source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 operatively connected to the at least one inlet 12-15.

[0359] FIG. 16 and FIG. 17 show two non-limiting embodiments relative to schematic examples of graphic representation which appears on the monitor 3m. In particular in FIG. 16 is represented an embodiment wherein it is highlighted the presence of a symbol of a glass containing water. Four icons arranged in an arc of circumference on the outer edge of the monitor 3m visually identify, through differentiated colors, features of the water to be dispensed and are attributable to a dispensing performed by a specific source between the sources of conditioned water or fluid. In an embodiment. In FIG. 16 is represented another embodiment wherein it is highlighted the presence of a symbol of a glass containing water. The four mentioned icons are again present. An asterisk visually identifies the presence of cooled water, for example supplied from the source of conditioned water or fluid which is configured for dispensing water at a temperature of about 5 C. The source selected is identified through a representation of one of the four icons with a thickness higher with respect to the one of the remaining icons. In FIG. 15, among the four icons 301-304 represented on the monitor 3m, the icon 303 is the one with higher thickness. In case of FIG. 17, the icon with higher thickness is the one identified by the numerical reference 302.

[0360] The Applicant notes that a particularly advanced embodiment of the electronic device 1 herein described is the one in which, in the operating configuration of dispensing, the activation of the command 3 with the first and/or the second combination of actuation, determines a loading of the first associative datum 30 and/or of the second associative datum 30 and a consequent dispensing of water on the outlet 16 for a time and/or a water volume defined according to when there is an activation itself.

[0361] In particular, in fact, the data processing unit 2, through the command 3, allows to enter into a function of preset, easily identifiable by the user through for example a gear-shaped icon shown on the monitor 3m, which allows to for example automatically preselect one or more parameters of dispensing; in particular in the function of preset is possible to adjust a volume of water to be dispensed from the outlet 16 of the faucet 10. In this function, for example, a clockwise rotation of the ring increases in defined steps (for example, 50 ml or 100 ml, or 200 ml or 500 ml) the volume of water, or of fluid, dispensed in use. The volume of conditioned water or of fluid desired by the user can be confirmed with an axial movement ring 3g along the axis X. In an embodiment, the variation of dispensing volume selected through the ring 3g can be automatically associated to a variation of the message shown on the monitor 3m; in particular, the increase of the volume of water in use dispensed can be presented with an icon representing water fluctuating which increases its height as the dispensing volume preselected by the user increases. The user can in particular select through the command 3 a dispensing of water with volumes expressed with the international metric system, in liters, or according to the Anglo-Saxon system.

[0362] The Applicant has in particular noted that there may be a need for a user to fill a certain water container several times with always the same, predefined volume of water or of fluid. The Applicant has noted that it is convenient, for the user, to be allowed to store in a smart faucet the dispensed volume.

[0363] In another embodiment, through the command 3 the user can start the dispensing of a volume of water predefined by the user through a first action on the command 3, and end the dispensing of the determined volume of water with a new (second) action on the command 3.

[0364] In an embodiment, then, the user accedes through the command 3 to a self-learning setting, acts on the command 3 for example holding it down, causing an automatic start of dispensing of the conditioned water or fluid from the outlet 16; the electronic device starts a step of counting of a dispensing time and/or of dispensing volume of the conditioned water or fluid. Once the desired volume has been reached, the user releases the command 3 determining an automatic stop of the dispensing of the conditioned water or fluid.

[0365] In an alternative embodiment, the user accedes through the command 3 to a self-learning setting, acts on the command 3, for example pressing it a first time, causing an automatic start of dispensing of the conditioned water or fluid from the outlet 16; the electronic device starts a step of counting of a dispensing time and/or of dispensing volume of the conditioned water or fluid. Once the desired volume has been reached, the user presses again the command 3 determining an automatic stop of the dispensing of the conditioned water or fluid.

[0366] In this way, the user may also not know the actual capacity of the container to be filled, but would in any case be able to determine the storage of the correct volume, or equivalently of the correct dispensing time, for that determined container, by simply stopping the dispensing when the container is filled for an amount desired by the user (for example, completely filled).

[0367] In the light of the above, it is then clear that the present disclosure also concerns a particular embodiment of the electronic device 1 comprising: [0368] at least a first command 3 through which it is possible to carry out, by the user, a selection of a supply of an outlet 16 of the faucet 10 with water coming from at least one inlet of a plurality of inlets 12-15 of the faucet 10; [0369] a data processing unit 2 operatively associated to the at least a first command 3; [0370] a memory operatively accessible from the data processing unit 2.

[0371] In the electronic device herein described, the data processing unit 2 is configured for enabling a dispensing of conditioned water or fluid according to customized dispensing volume of conditioned water or fluid and/or according to a customized dispensing time of conditioned water or fluid.

[0372] The dispensing volume and/or dispensing time is selected on the basis of at least a predefined activation or actuating sequence of the at least a first command 3, preferably on the basis of a first and a second activation or actuating sequence of the at least a first command 3.

[0373] Therefore, the electronic device 1 is configured for being activated in at least a self-learning operating configuration, and wherein in the self-learning operating configuration of the data processing unit 2 is configured for storing in the memory at least a dispensing datum corresponding to the customized dispensing volume from a user of conditioned water or fluid and/or to the customized dispensing time of conditioned water or fluid, optionally after of the predefined activation or actuating sequence of the at least a first command 3, preferably after of the first and of the second activation or actuating sequence of the at least a first command 3.

[0374] More preferably for each inlet 12-15 (or equivalently for each source 22-25) it is possible to have a storage of a single dispensing data customized by the user, or more dispensing data customized by the user. In the latter case, the user can define a customized dispensing of a volume equal to 550 ml (first dispensing data customized by the user) and of a volume equal to 575 ml (second dispensing data customized by the user), in addition, or in replacement, to the preset data, wherein at company level are stored dispensing data (not customized by the user, but selectable at will by the user) corresponding to the aforementioned 50 ml or 100 ml, or 200 ml or 500 ml). It then appears clear that the device so far described is actually very flexible in allowing the user to select pre-set volumes of water ex-factory or selected by him based on actions on the command 3.

[0375] The electronic device 1 is configured for being activated in at least a self-learning operating configuration wherein the data processing unit 2, according to a connection of at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid 22 of the already mentioned plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 to at least an inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15, determines automatically an enabling of at least a first combination of actuation of at least a first command 3 allowing a first configuration of supply of the outlet 16 by means of water coming from at least a first selected inlet among the inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from a first selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15. The first inlet or the first set of inlets is univocally associated, in an associative datum 30 stored in the memory, to the first source of conditioned water or fluid 22.

[0376] The electronic device is then configured for being activated in at least an operating configuration of dispensing, in which an activation of the first command 3 in the first combination of actuation determines, through the data processing unit 2 and in an automatic way, a loading of the first associative datum 30 from the memory, and a dispensing on the outlet 16 of water coming from the first selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or by the first selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15 according to the first associative datum 30.

[0377] In this way in the memory operatively accessible by the data processing unit 2 is stored a water dispensing time (corresponding indicatively at a determined volume) or, alternatively, a determined volume of water to be dispensed through the faucet 10. During the dispensing, the monitor 3m can conveniently display a time-variant icon, for example a gradually increasing level of fluid increasing with dispensing time and/or volume. Conveniently, in this latter case the faucet 10 can be provided with a sensor suitable for measuring a dispensed volume. This dispensing time or volume are non-limiting examples of parameters of dispensing of water that can be set at will by the user within the limits imposed by the manufacturer of the electronic device 1 and/or by the manufacturer of the sources of conditioned water or fluid. Further non-limiting examples of parameters of dispensing which can be set at will by the user are a temperature of the water and/or a percentage of addition of CO.sub.2 in the water dispensed.

[0378] The data processing unit 2 of the electronic device 1 also allows resetting one or more of dispensing parameters set by the user. The data processing unit 2 allows also resetting the electronic device 1 to factory values.

[0379] A specific embodiment of the electronic device 1 allows customizing the specific actuating sequence of the command 3 which shall be carried out for allowing the dispensing of water from the outlet 16 through one or more of the inlets 12-15. In this case the electronic device 1 allows to start a self-learning operating configuration, in which the data processing unit 2, when the command 3 is activated in a first combination of actuation, memorizes in an automatic way, through a first associative datum 30, a first configuration of supply of the outlet 16 of the faucet 10 with water coming from a first selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from a first selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15. In this self-learning operating configuration, the data processing unit 2, when the command 3 is activated in a second combination of actuation, memorizes in an automatic way, through a second associative datum 30, a second configuration of supply of the outlet 16 of the faucet 10 with water coming from at least a second selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from a second selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0380] After the completion of the self-learning operating configuration, the electronic faucet herein described can be arranged in an operating configuration of dispensing, wherein when an activation of the command 3 in the first combination of actuation takes place, the data processing unit 2 loads from the memory the first associative datum 30, and causes a dispensing on the outlet 16 of water coming from the first selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from the first selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15. Also, in this operating configuration of dispensing, when there is an activation of the command 3 in the second combination of actuation, the data processing unit 2 loads from the memory the second associative datum 30, and causes a dispensing on the outlet 16 of water coming from the second selected inlet of the plurality of inlets 12-15 or from the second selected set of inlets of the plurality of inlets 12-15.

[0381] In a rest condition, the electronic device 1 can be configured for having on the monitor 3m a predefined message, for example time-variant; in an embodiment, this predefined message includes a date and/or time.

[0382] Further features of adjustment are also made possible through the data processing unit 2. In particular it is made possible an adjustment of the brightness, of the language of presentation of one or more messages. Particular data are stored in the memory of the data processing unit 2 for allowing carrying out such adjustments through the command 3.

[0383] Further embodiments of the electronic device 1 are herein below described. In these embodiments it can be present a vibration or sound unit 3v. In this case at least one among the first or the second signal S1, S2, when transmitted, determines the temporary activation of the vibration or sound unit 3v.

[0384] In an embodiment the data processing unit 2 can also be configured for receiving from one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 data related to the status of the source itself, and for transmitting automatically, when a determined criterion is verified, a signal of status toward the monitor 3m. In particular, should the source of conditioned water or fluid comprise a filter, the signal of status may be advantageously indicating a status of the filter and may, in particular, allow to display on a monitor an icon or message indicative of the need of replacement or clogging of the filter. Should, on the other hand, the source of conditioned water or fluid comprise a gasifier, a signal of status will allow to display on the monitor an icon or message indicative of the need of replacement of the bottle of the gasifier. In an embodiment the data processing unit 2 can be configured for causing the activation of the vibration or sound unit 3v with the transmission of the signal of status.

[0385] It is noted finally that the electronic device 1 can be provided with a voice activation module; this voice activation module can comprise (or be configured with) a microphone and is operatively connected with the data processing unit 2.

[0386] Through the voice activation module it is possible to give orders of voice dispensing also without contact with the ring 3g or by moving the ring 3g with a simple and composite movement which allows the activation of a reception of a voice signal which is then processed by means of technique for example known through the data processing unit 2. The voice activation module is preferably arranged in substantial proximity of the ring 3g. It is noted in particular that, for this reason, the first combination of actuation and/or the second combination of actuation can be a combination of activation at least partially by voice.

[0387] It is noted finally that the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can be placed in a status of low or reduced energy consumption through a control signal transmitted from the data processing unit 2 with one or more of the above-mentioned modes. In particular, the data processing unit 2 can transmit a control signal toward one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which allows to reduce the energy consumption of said one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 for determined predefined time intervals (for example during the night or during the holidays), and/or which allows to reduce the energy consumption of said one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 by reducing the activity and then the energy consumption of one or more subsystems of power of the source itself; the latter configuration implies a substantial deactivation of an operating functioning of the source of conditioned water or fluid. For example, if the source of conditioned water or fluid is destined to produce water at a temperature close to the boiling temperature, this control signal may determine the reduction of the water dispensing temperature in a range preferably comprised between 60 C. and 70 C., more preferably substantially equal to 65 C.

[0388] Applicant has finally realized a particular embodiment of the electronic device 1 configured for carrying out an electronic control of at least a characteristic of the conditioned water and/or of the fluid dispensed through the outlet 16 of the faucet 10, and for interrupting or preventing the dispensing (for example by disabling one or more of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25) if these features come out from a selected range of values or exceed a threshold value. The features can be for example features of temperature and/or of quality of the water (for example characteristics of chemical composition).

[0389] In this embodiment, at least one among the electronic device 1 and the faucet 10 comprises at least a sensor, for example and non-limiting thereto a sensor of temperature or a sensor suitable for detecting the presence of one or more chemical substances (included the presence of at least a determined type of mineral), capable of producing a signal that the data processing unit 2 compares with the range selected of values or with the threshold; when occur the conditions of exceeding of the threshold or the outlet from the range selected of values, the data processing unit 2 determines the transmission of an alarm message, for example a visual and/or sound message, and determines an automatic, and preferably immediate, interruption of the dispensing of the conditioned water or fluid from the outlet 16.

[0390] It is therefore cleat that the present disclosure describes an electronic device 1, and a corresponding method, wherein the data processing unit 2 receives a control signal by the sensor configured for detecting at least a feature of a fluid, preferably at least one between a feature of temperature and/or of quality of the fluid, and is configured for comparing said control signal to at least a predetermined threshold value and for limiting and/or interrupting the dispensing of conditioned water from said at least a first source of conditioned water or fluid 22-25, in an automatic way, following the crossing of said at least a predetermined threshold value.

[0391] In general, the characteristic of the water, and more generally of the fluid, detectable through the sensor can be for example a between a temperature, pressure, presence of chemical substances, bacteria and/or viruses.

[0392] The advantages of the faucet 10 and of the electronic device 1 herein described are clear in the light of the preceding description. The faucet 10, which as it is clear from the above description, is preferably destined to domestic applications preferably in kitchen, can be installed in a very simple way, and the operator which carries out the installation is relieved of the burden of placing a high attention to the correct connection of the sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 to the correct inlet. Alternatively, for example, the faucet 10 can be destined to be installed for example in a bathroom or in an outdoor environment. Furthermore, the faucet 10 can be produced with a plurality of inlets also higher with respect to the number of sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 which indeed will be connected thereto, and also can be product without precise consideration as to whichbetween the potential sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 connectable to its inletswill be the one actually connected in use.

[0393] The command 3 of the electronic device 1 is of intuitive use, the end user is relieved of the need to configure in a complex way the command 3 at the connection of the one or more sources of conditioned water or fluid.

[0394] FIG. 18 shows finally a particular configuration of a source of conditioned water or fluid according to the present disclosure. The source of conditioned water or fluid comprises a substantially closed outer shell, preferably provided with a front door 22r, openable and closable for allowing the access of a specialized operator and/or of a user inside the source itself. For example, should the source of conditioned water or fluid 22 comprise a gasifier, this front door 22r will allow to access the inside of the source for replacing the bottle of CO.sub.2.

[0395] The source of conditioned water or fluid further comprises a user interface 22m, which in an embodiment represented in FIG. 18 comprises a monitor and a plurality of control buttons. Through the user interface 22m it is possible to check a status of the source and/or configure the source in a mode of coupling with the electronic device 1 herein described. It is also possible to carry out an adjustment of one or more operating parameters of the source, among which-in a non-limiting way-a temperature of the water, a quantity of gas added to the water, a level of filtering of the water, a flow rate toward the faucet.

[0396] On the rear side, i.e. in position opposed with respect to the front door 22r is provided a plurality of electrical and hydraulic connections to ensure the functioning of the source. Between the hydraulic connections existing on the rear side of each source there is a connection of intake of water in pressure from a distribution network of water, in particular from a distribution network of potable water, in particular domestic. This connection allows supplying the source of conditioned water or fluid with water which will be later conditioned by the source itself.

[0397] It is noted finally that many sources of conditioned water or fluid 22-25 can be housed inside a shell; in this case, the set of a plurality of sources of conditioned water or fluid and of the said shell, optionally including the front door 22r and/or of the user interface 22m realizes a source group of conditioned water or fluid for the supply of the faucet 10, and this source group will be provided with a plurality of hydraulic connections to be connected with one or more of the previously described inlets 12-15.

[0398] It is noted finally that at least one between the sources of conditioned water or fluid can be destined to specifically configured for dispensing firstly a first typology of conditioned water and/or fluid and subsequently, a second typology of conditioned water and/or fluid. In particular, this source can be configured and specifically destined to dispense first sparkling water and subsequently sparkling water added with lemon juice.

[0399] The invention is not limited to the embodiments shown in the attached figures; for this reason, the reference signs which appear in the claims are provided for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and are not to be intended in a limiting manner.

[0400] Finally, it is also clear that additions, modifications or variants, which are obvious to an expert in the art, can be applied to the object of the present disclosure, without thereby departing from the scope of protection provided by the attached claims.