Reference data

[0001] This application claims the priority of CH20180001108 filed on September 9, 2018 the contents of which is hereby incorporated.

Field of the invention [0001] The present invention concerns a device for water purification and remineralization and optionally Flavouring.

Description of related art

[0002] Kettles are commonly used to produce hot water. The water is usually taken from tap without additional treatment, boiled and served in a cup. The hot water may then be infused with tea or any other aromatised material. However, the quality of the tap water is not under control. Some additives such as chlorine, or impurities, can alter the taste of the beverage. In addition, the temperature is also not controlled since the kettles usually stop when the water is boiling. Thus, the temperature of water may be too high for the tea or too high to be directly drunk. Such manual protocol is also time consuming, since the water should first be boiled and then infused with a quantity of an aromatised material. The origin and the quality of the aromatized material may furthermore not be under control. Depending on the age and the storing conditions, the aromatized material may be degraded or having an attenuated taste.

[0003] The quantity of the boiled water is also not under control. The amount of water is roughly evaluated in advance, but may be too high, resulting in the waste of the remaining water, which is not in favour of the energy consumption. In case the exceeding water is not wasted, it remains in the kettle where it is cooled down, and needs to be warmed again. [0004] Some percolators are known to provide hot water on demand. However, the quality of the water is also not under control since a reservoir of tap water is usually filled, wherein the water remains for a while before being circulated in the percolator. Micro-organisms may develop and degrade the quality of the water. The hot water is also not aromatised and still needs to be infused with the desired flavours.

[0005] There is thus room for improvement regarding the quality control of the water, and the easiness for the preparation of hot beverages.

Brief summary of the invention [0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mean for producing hot water, wherein the quality of the water is controlled and reproducible. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a water the quality of which, comprising the degree of mineralisation, may be tuned or adapted. [0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a mean for producing hot water on demand under quantities which correspond to the actual needs.

[0008] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a mean for producing hot beverages on demand, having various flavours. [0009] It is a further aim of the present invention to guaranty a reproducible quality of the flavours used in a hot beverage.

[0010] These aims are achieved by the mean of the purification device of the present invention and claimed in claim 1 and dependant claims.

[0011] In particular, the purification device comprises a tap water jar which is used to collect water from any tap water fountain. Once inserted in the tap water docking station, water can be sucked by a pressure pump from the tap water jar. Both the tap water jar and the docking station contain connectors on the feed side, which have mechanical valves to prevent water flowing out of the jar or docking station when the jar is not inserted in the docking station. Once the water cleaning has started, the pressure pump together with the flow restrictor creates the necessary system pressure for the membrane to filter the water. If the system pressure reaches a certain pressure level, for instance above 100 psi, i.e. due clogging, the pressure switch will sense the over pressure and the system is turned off. The pressured water flows through the input check valve to the filtration system, for instance sediment and activated charcoal filter into the reverse osmosis membrane. The wastewater leaving the reverse osmosis membrane unfiltered is feed back via the output check valve and flow restrictor to the tap water jar. Both, the docking connector and the connector in the jar on the return side have also integrated mechanical valves to prevent water leakage when the tap water jar is not on the docking station. Both check vales are preferable to prevent water flowing from the filtration unit back into the tap water jar when the system is turned off. Preferably, the device comprises a by-pass valve required to flush the pump from air, which have come into the system when the tap water jar is put/removed from the docking station. This flushing takes place anytime when the jar is placed into the docking station.

[0012] Preferably, the water filtration also stops when a maximum of 1.4 I has been processed or the water level in the tap water jar has reached a minimum level of 300 ml.

[0013] Preferably, after the membrane of the filtration system, the purified water passes through the stop solenoid valve. This valve is normally turned on and off with the pump. When the system is turned off it prevents pressure applied to the purified waterside. However, in the case of a removal of the tap water jar when the pump is running (fault condition), the system will stay under pressure for a long time. In that event the stop valve and the output valve stay open for short while to release the system pressure. The stop valve also stays closed when the system is in the flush mode. [0014] Preferably, the purified water from the membrane flows through the triac cooler block, the boiler, output valve and to the re-mineralization unit. The triac cooler block comprises a metallic structure where the water from the membrane flows through and cools the control element (e.g. a triac) which controls the power applied to the boiler to keep the boiler water at a certain temperature. The over pressure check valve protects the clean water path from overpressure from the boiler should the boiler to be turned on when the output valve is closed (fault condition).

[0015] Preferably, the return check valve is turned on during the heat-up period of the boiler by keeping the output valve closed. This condition is maintained as long as the boiled water temperature is below 70°C. Once this temperature is reached the output valve is opened and the hot water flows to the drinkable water jar or cup.

[0016] Preferably, the output valve is opened when the drinkable water shall flow to the output. Advantageously, it is closed after 2 seconds after the pumps stops to flush the pipes from flavour and eventually to prevent dripping.

[0017] Preferably, the re-mineralization unit contains 3 containers holding 500 ml of concentrate each. 2 containers are required for the base re-mineralization. The third container contains an optional flavour concentrate. The re-mineralization containers have integrated precision micro pumps, which pump the concentrate in small increments of 16 pi. The re-mineralized water is feed to the faucet - adjustable in height - and eventually feeds the water to the drinkable water jar or a cup, which is placed on the drinkable water docking station.

[0018] Preferably, both the tap water and drinkable water docking station have integrated load cells allowing to determine the weight of water present on each side. To this end, the load cells generate electrical signals which are sent to a controlling unit, wherein they are computed to provide the weight of the tap water jar, including the tap water contained in the tap water jar. The weight of the drinkable water jar, including the drinkable contained in the drinkable jar may be determined in the same way. In addition, the drinkable water docking station may have a sensor for determining the presence of the drinkable water jar. To this end, a sensor such as a switch may be arranged in connexion with the spout, in such a way to be activated when the spout reaches a predetermined angle with regard to its rest position. When the spout is in the vertical rest position, it is assumed that the drinkable jar is present and the sensor is at a status corresponding to the presence of the drinkable jar. When the spout is moved downwards, the sensor takes the status corresponding to the absence of the drinkable water jar. Such position of the spout is for example determined according to the angle of the spout with regard to the wall of the device. Preferably, when the drinkable water jar is not detected, the amount of hot water, which can be served to the cup, is limited to 200 ml.

[0019] Above and below, the terms "drinkable water" denote the water which has been re-mineralized after a filtration process, and in particular after the filtration occurred through the filtration unit of the present device. The "drinkable water" thus excludes the tap water and the "purified water" flowing out of the filtration unit. In other words the "drinkable water" denotes the water flowing out the purification device at the dispensing unit. [0020] Above and below, the terms "purified water" denotes the water which has been filtered through the filtration unit of the present device. Since the "purified water" is filtered, the amount of minerals may be not suitable for human usage. The "purified water" exclude the "drinkable water". Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021] The invention will be better understood with the aid of the description of an embodiment given by way of example and illustrated by the following figures :

Fig. 1 : Chart representing the organization of the device in one embodiment Fig.2a, 2b: Top view and bottom view in perspective of a set of containers combined to the dosing base

Fig. 3a, 3b: Top view and transversal view in perspective of the dosing base without the containers Fig: 3c: Bottom view of a container without the dosing base

Fig. 4a, 4b: Front view and back view in perspective of a set of filtering elements

Fig. 5a, 5b, 5 c: Front view and back view in perspective of the purification device 1 Fig. 6: Exploded view of the purification device 1

Detailed Description of possible embodiments of the Invention

[0022] The purification device 1 comprises a feeding unit 2, a filtration unit 3, a dosing unit 4 and a dispensing unit 5. The feeding unit 2 allows to introduce tap water W1 in the purification device 1. The tap water W1 is then flowed to the filtration unit 3 by the mean of a pumping means P, comprising a pressure pump P1. The filtration unit 3 comprises the necessary filtration elements to remove from the tap water W1 the polluting particles, such as organic and inorganic particles and the unpleasant tastes or smells such as those related to the additives included in the tap water W1 against the proliferation of organic pollutants. The purified water W2 flows out the filtration unit 3 to the dosing unit 4 which comprises the necessary elements to re-mineralize the purified water W2. The dosing unit 4 may in addition contain one or more flavour dispensers or container 43. The drinkable water W3 flowing out of the dosing unit 4 is dispensed through the dispensing unit 5.

[0023] In one embodiment, the feeding unit 2 comprises a tap water jar 21 used to store the tap water W1. The tap water jar 21 is preferably a removable container which can easily be placed under a tap or any other remote water source to be filled in with water. It comprises a handle 210 allowing easy transportation and may in addition comprise a cap 211 to prevent any particle or unwanted material to fall into the jar 21. The cap can be a pluggable cap or any other type of cap such as a rotatable cap or a screwing cap. The tap water jar 21 may further comprise a spout 212, in such a way that the tap water jar 21 can be used as a pitcher. The tap water jar 21 is provided with at least one fluidic connector 213 allowing the tap water W1 to be sucked by pumping means P, comprising a pressure pump P1. The tap water jar 21 has preferably two fluidic connectors 213, placed on its bottom. One of the connectors 213 is connectable to the pumping means P through a pipe L1, allowing the tap water W1 flowing through the filtration unit 3 and the dosing unit 4. The second connector 213, if present, is connectable to a pipe L3, allowing the return to the tap water jar 21 of excess water flow. The fluidic connectors 213 are preferably spring loaded auto close connectors which mate with corresponding socket 23 of a docking station 21. The fluidic connectors 213 allow the tap water W1 flowing out the tap water jar 21 once it is properly placed on the docking station 22. When the tap water jar 21 is removed from the docking station 22, the springs close the fluidic connections 213 in a way to prevent any leakage of water. The tap water jar 21 is preferably provided with a restrainer 215 or a filter to prevent particles such as sand or limestone fallout flowing toward the pumping means P and to the pressure pump P1.

[0024] The docking station 22 fits with the bottom of the tap water jar 21 to guide it during insertion and to hold the jar firmly in place. It contains 2 sockets 23 facing the fluidic connectors 213 of the tap water jar W1. The sockets 23 may be inserted into the surface of the docking station 22 in order to allow the opening of the fluidic connectors 213 of the tap water jar 21. They preferably comprise one or more sealing rings or any other means to prevent water leakage. The fluidic connection between the fluidic connectors 213 and the sockets 23 remains air tight to prevent air entering the device 1 or its elements. [0025] The docking station 22 may further comprise a load cell 24 allowing to determine the weight and therefore also the presence of the tap water jar 21 (including the water which it contains), once placed on the docking station 22. The signal of the load cell 24 may further allow to calculate the flow rate of the tap water W1 by sending electrical signals, which represent weigh measurements of the jar (and water which the jar 21 contains), to the controller; and the controller then calculates change of weight of over time to determine a flow rate. Alternatively or in addition, the tap water jar 21 may be provided with a magnetic float level sensor to determine the water level in the jar. According to the amount of tap water W1 in the tap water jar 21, such a magnetic float level sensor sends the corresponding information to a controlling unit 6. The docking station 22 thus comprises any necessary means to determine a weight and/or a flow rate by the controlling unit 6. The controlling unit 6 may automatically stop the flow rate of the tap water W1 in case one of the determined weight or flow rate reaches a predetermined lower threshold value. The docking station 22 may further comprise a total dissolved solid (TDS) sensor 214 to determine the conductivity of the tap water W1. The docking station 22 may comprise additional measuring devices to determine one or more additional characteristics of the water stored on the feeding station 2, such as the temperature. The load cell 24 is preferably mounted between the docking top and the docking base. The load cell 24 contains for example a differential strain gauge bridge, which allows measuring the electrical signal in differential modes. Depending on the resulting measurements, a signal may be sent to a controlling unit 6. For example, when the TDS sensor 214 reaches a threshold value, such as around 800 ppm, the water processing may stop. Any other threshold value may of course be predetermined. The TDS sensor 214 pins are welded into the feed water socket where they are in contact with the feed water. The conductivity measurement is temperature dependent. It has a temperature coefficient of 2.5%/ °C. That implies if the water filtration capacity is bound by the TDS sensor 214 that the amount of water which can be filtered is temperature dependent. For example, an amount of +25% of water may be filtered at a temperature of 10°C, and an amount of -25% may be filtered at a temperature of 30 °C. [0026] The controlling unit 6 may be provided with the necessary processing means to collect and process the values related at least to the conductivity and the temperature of the water. The controlling unit 6 is thus able to compensate the variability of the amount of water which may be filtered resulting from the temperature variations. The controlling unit 6 is in addition able to monitor the status of the purification device 1 and its elements such as the pumping means P, the filtration unit 3 and the dosing unit 4.

[0027] The pumping means P create with the pressure pump P1, together with the backpressure valve V1, the necessary system pressure for the tap water W1 to pass through the filtration unit 3, and in particular the membranes such as the reverse osmosis membrane 33. The tap water W1 is piped from the tap water jar 21 through a first line L1. An input check valve V8 may be provided on this first line L1 to prevent water flowing out the filtration unit 3 when the purification device 1 is in idle mode. The pressure pump P1 can be a diaphragm pump operating or any suitable pump. It is preferably selected among pumps having low vibrations and noise. The backpressure valve V1 may be, or comprise, an orifice in the water flow, which may be open or closed and creates the necessary system pressure or vent. The backpressure valve V1 is ideally located inside the reverse osmosis filter housing. Alternately, it can be located between the filtration unit 3 and the feeding unit 2.

[0028] An over pressure switch S1 can be provided close to the back pressure valve V1. The over pressure switch S1 may be activated by the controlling unit 6 to stop the pump P1 when the internal pressure reaches a predetermined value Pt. The predetermined value Pt is determined for example to avoid any damage to the device 1 or its elements. It can be for example determined at around 100 psi, or any other critical value. Once the over pressure switch S1 is activated, a signal may be sent to a controlling unit 6. The controlling unit 6 can then provide a warning message to the user through a command unit 7. [0029] The filtration unit 3 comprises one or more filtering elements allowing to reduce or remove any organic or non-organic particles. A filtering element may be presented as a removable individual cartridge or as a removable set of cartridges. The filtration unit 3 may comprise a combination of individual cartridges either identical or different from each other. The filtering elements are arranged in series, meaning that the tap water W1 flows from one to the following one. Depending on the purpose and the characteristics of a given filtering element, it may be placed at a specific place with regard to the other filtering elements of the filtration unit 3. A given cartridge may comprise more than one filter, of the same or of different type. As an example, a given cartridge can comprise a first filter for sedimentation, and a second filter comprising charcoal. Other specific arrangements can be envisaged.

[0030] In an embodiment, the filtration unit 3 comprises 3 filtering elements, comprising a sediment filter 31, an activated charcoal filter 32 and a reverse osmosis membrane 33. These three filtering elements are arranged in such an order that the tap water flows first in the sediment filter 31, then in the activated charcoal filter 32, and ultimately in the reverse osmosis membrane 33. Other type of filtering elements and other arrangements may be considered depending on the specific needs. More than 3 filtering elements are also contemplated. For example an additional charcoal filter 32 could be placed after the osmosis membrane 33, or the charcoal filter 32 may be doubled before the osmosis membrane 33.

[0031] The filtering elements of the filtration unit 3 are preferably independent in such a way that they can be replaced one by one. This arrangement however does not prevent to combine two or more filtering elements in a common housing, to be replaced once one of the filtering element of the housing is degraded or less efficient. The size and the physical characteristics of a set of filtering elements may be designed in a way that they have a comparable durability, in such a way that they can be replaced at the same time. This reduces the maintenance operations. Such filtering elements may thus be incorporated in one common housing. [0032] The sediment filter 31 is protecting the activated charcoal filter 32 and the reverse osmosis membrane 33 from clogging due to small organic and inorganic particles in the tap water W1. The sediment filter 31 comprises a sediment filter housing 310 and a sediment filter cap 311. The dimensions of the sediment filter housing 310 are determined in accordance with the needs of the purification device 1 and the amount of tap water W1 to be purified. As an example, the height of the sediment filter housing 310 may be comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, or around 250 mm such as 248 mm. The diameter may also vary according to specific needs or specific tap water qualities. The diameter may be comprised between 40 and 100 mm, or 50 mm to 80 mm, or may be around 60 mm.

[0033] The sediment filter cap 311 allows to connect the sediment filter 31 to the device 1 , while avoiding any water leakage or air income within the filter. Furthermore, the sediment filter cap 311 comprises a mean to compensate for an elongation of the sediment filter housing 310 due to the variation of pressure and prevent water leakage. Such a compensation mean may comprise sealing devices, or a combination of sealing arrangements.

[0034] The activated charcoal filter 32 allows removing or decreasing organic material and chlorine taste and smell in the water flow. It further protects the reverse osmotic membrane 33 from degradation and prevents it from breaking down. The activated charcoal filter 32 is preferably a charcoal block in order to minimize or prevent the production of charcoal fines. The activated charcoal filter 32 comprises an activated charcoal housing 320 and an activated charcoal filter cap 321. The activated charcoal filter cap 321 allows to connect the activated charcoal filter 32 to the device 1, while avoiding any water leakage or air income within the filter. Furthermore, the activated charcoal filter cap 321 comprises a mean to compensate for an elongation of the activated charcoal filter housing 320 due to the variation of pressure and prevents water leakage. Such a compensation mean may comprise sealing devices, or a combination of sealing arrangements. The dimensions of the activated charcoal filter housing 320 are determined in accordance with the needs of the purification device 1 and the amount of tap water to be purified. As an example, the height of the activated charcoal filter housing 320 may be comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, or around 250 mm, such as 248 mm. The diameter may also vary according to specific needs or specific water qualities. The diameter may be comprised between 40 and 100 mm, or 50 mm to 80 mm, or may be around 63 mm. [0035] The reverse osmosis membrane 33 removes all inorganic material and most organic material, but let the water molecules pass through the membrane. The reverse osmotic membrane 33 is designed according to the concentration of the inorganic salts present in the water. Depending on the nature of the tap water W1, the reverse osmotic membrane 33 may be adapted. The flow rate of the water through the reverse osmotic membrane 33 is temperature dependent. Typical flow rate at 85 psi system pressure is around 250 ml/min at 20°C, around 180 ml/min at 10°C and around 330 ml/min at 30°C. Depending on the fitness of the membrane, these values may vary by +/-15%. The reverse osmotic membrane 33 comprises a reverse osmotic membrane housing 330 and a reverse osmotic membrane cap 331. The reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 allows to connect the reverse osmotic membrane 33 to the device 1, while avoiding any water leakage or air income within the filter. Furthermore, the reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 comprises a mean to compensate for an elongation of the reverse osmotic membrane housing 330 due to the variation of pressure and prevent water leakage. Such a compensation mean may comprise sealing devices, or a combination of sealing arrangements. The dimensions of the reverse osmotic membrane housing 330 are determined in accordance with the needs of the purification device 1 and the amount of tap water to be purified. Their dimension may be the same or different from the other filtering elements.

[0036] In order to prevent accumulation of air in front of the reverse osmotic membrane 33 when the system is primed, a ventilation pass can be provided which enables the air to be released without flowing through the reverse osmotic membrane 33. This path must be automatically closed once all air has vanished in front of the reverse osmotic membrane 33. [0037] The sediment filter cap 311, the activated charcoal filter cap 321 and the reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 are all provided with an inlet 312, 322, 332, and an outlet 313, 323, 333, allowing the water passing through the corresponding filtering element. The inlets 312, 322, 332, and outlets 313, 323, 333 are arranged in a way to mate with the corresponding fluidic connections on the device 1. In addition, the sediment filter cap 311, the activated charcoal filter cap 321 and the reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 are also designed to firmly maintain the corresponding filtering element in place. They may have a shape allowing to secure the filtering element onto the purification device 1. Alternatively, a separate locking system may be provided to secure the filtering element onto the purification device 1. Sensors may also be provided to determine the presence or the absence of a given filtering element, or its proper locked position. Sensors can thus be connected to the controlling unit 6. [0038] Alternatively or in addition, in order to guaranty that a given filtering element is placed at the right position on the purification device 1, the sediment filter cap 311, the activated charcoal filter cap 321 and the reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 may be provided with one or more recesses or protrusions specifically fitting with the corresponding cartridge holder 341, 342, 344 on the purification device 1. Each one of the sediment filter cap 311, the activated charcoal filter cap 321 and the reverse osmotic membrane cap 331 has a specific geometric arrangement in such a way that it is not possible to invert them. In addition, the locking system, when present, may be designed in a way to allow the locking of a given filtering element only if it is properly engaged to its corresponding position. Although the caps may be dissociated from their corresponding housing, it is preferable that the caps remains integral with the corresponding housing. When the filtering element is over or fails, the complete cartridge is replaced instead of being refilled. This prevents errors and limits the maintenance operations.

[0039] Alternatively to the physical recognition means for the filters, or in addition, an electronic device such as a readable memory 37 may be installed within a filtering element. The cartridge holders 341, 342, 344 of the purification device 1 can be provided with a reader able to read the information related to the corresponding filtering element and determine whether it is the suitable filtering element. In case a non-suitable filtering element is positioned, a signal may be sent to the controlling unit 6. The controlling unit 6 can then provide a warning signal to the user and/or prevent the purification device 1 from starting. One or more of the following status may be monitored and stored within the readable memory 37: "non- used", "partially used" and "non-usable" status. The corresponding status may be displayed to a human-machine interface 7 allowing a user to monitor the current status of a given filtering element. A graphical scale may be displayed wherein the gradual degradation of a given filtering element can be monitored until it becomes "non-usable".

[0040] Sensors able to determine the accuracy of each cartridges, or to detect a damage, may be incorporated within a filtering element. Sensors like pressure sensor, conductivity sensors, temperature sensors, TDS sensor or any other relevant sensor can be implemented. Some clogging or malfunctions or membrane breaking can thus be detected. If this occurs, a signal may be sent the controlling unit 6. Alternatively or in addition, the cumulative flow of water can be monitored by the mean of one or more of such sensors and compared to a predetermined value which corresponds to the recommended duration of a filtering element. Once a threshold value is reached, a signal may be sent to the controlling unit 6. A warning message can then be provided to the user, indicating for example that one or more of the filtering element must be replaced. [0041] The filtration unit 3 further comprises a cartridge docking station

35 wherein the filtering elements are placed. The cartridge docking station 35 may have a surface shape which fits with the bottom of the filtering elements. In case the filtering elements do not have the same diameter, the surface of the cartridge docking station facilitates the recognition of the proper place for a given cartridge. The surface shape of the cartridge docking station 35 may by arranged to accommodate several diameters, corresponding to different acceptable sizes of the filtering elements. [0042] The filtration unit 3 is accessible by the user by the mean of a cover 36, which is removably attached to the purification device 1. The user can thus easily replace one or several of the filtering element on demand. One or more sensors, such as a magnetic sensor, can be arranged to determine whether the cover 36 is open or closed.

[0043] The tap water W1 is filtered and purified by flowing through the filtration unit 3. The resulting purified water W2 flows toward the dosing unit 4. Between the filtration unit 3 and the dosing unit 4, a stop valve V3 may be arranged. The stop valve V3 is preferably a solenoid valve. It is used to cut off the system pressure in the purified water path when the system stops and the output valve is closing to prevent dripping. The stop valve V3 is normally turned on and off with the pressure pump P1. However, in the case of a removal of the tap water jar 21 when the pressure pump P1 is running, the system stays under pressure for a long time. In that event the stop valve V3 and the output valve V6 stay open for short while to release the system pressure. The stop valve V3 stays closed when the system is in the flush mode.

[0044] A return check valve V5 is provided between the purification unit 3 and the dosing unit 4, allowing to recirculate the purified water W2 in the purification unit 3 through the line L2. On the line L2, a by-pass valve V7 can be provided to flush the system and rapidly remove air, which can be accumulated in the pressure pump 1. The by-pass valve V7 can be a solenoid valve.

[0045] The purified water W2 flows through a cooler R to release the heat produced by the boiler control unit C1 located in controlling unit 6 into the purified water. The cooler R is thus upstream to the boiler B in the purified water W2 flow. The control device in the control unit C1 (i.e. a triac, or a MOSFET transistor) which controls the power applied to the boiler B can dissipate excessive heat. To avoid a large heat sink, the control device is mounted on a thermal block, which is cooled by the purified water W2 flowing to the boiler B. Other cooler arrangement may be considered. [0046] Optionally, in addition to the cooler R, the device 1 may comprise a water cooler R' which may be used to cool down the purified water W2 to a temperature under the ambient temperature, such as a temperature below 15°C, or below 10°C, or below 4°C, in such a way that fresh drinkable water can be dispensed. Such a water cooler R' may be combined to the boiler B to provide a single temperature controlling device able either to warm or cool down the purified water W2. Alternatively, the water cooler R' may be independent from the boiler B.

[0047] The boiler B heats up the purified water W2 to an average temperature of 85 °C on demand. The temperature of the purified water W2 can be optionally managed, either manually through a command unit 7, or automatically. It can be envisaged that the boiler B remains inactivated, in such a way that the purified water remains cold or at ambient temperature. Alternatively, an intermediate temperature may be selected or a temperature higher or lower than 85°C. The purified water temperature is controlled by a micro controller C1. The micro-controller C1 allows to keep the water temperature constant under the varying water flow conditions. In addition, the micro-controller C1 prevents the hot water from steaming. The micro-controller C1 may be connected to the controlling unit 6, to which signals may be sent in case of failure of the boiler B or the water cooler R'. Alternatively, the micro-controller C1 is integrated to the controlling unit 6. A pressure sensor or an over pressure check valve V4 may be provided in relationship with the boiler B. In case of a failure of the boiler B, a pressure relieve is provided by the mean of the over pressure check valve V4. Hot steam is released either to the outside of the purification device 1 or preferably to an overflow bin 60 in the base of the purification device 1.

[0048] Due to a failure in the control circuit, the boiler B can heat up uncontrolled. This failure mode is protected by a thermo fuse, which turns off the boiler B permanently when a surface temperature reaches a predetermined value such as around 160°C or higher. During this failure mode, hot, pressured steam can be produced. The over pressure valve V4 can release the pressure to the overflow bin in the bottom or to the outside of the purification device 1. [0049] All materials surrounding the boiler B is resistant to fire and mechanical deformation. They resist when the boiler B operates in the normal mode and when an overheating occurs.

[0050] During the heat-up of the boiler B, the return check valve V5 is preferably turned on by keeping the output valve V6 closed. This condition is maintained as long as the boiled water temperature is below a predetermined threshold, such as around 70°C. Once the proper water temperature is reached, the output valve V6 is opened and the hot water flows to the drinkable water jar 51 or cup. [0051] The opening of the output valve V6 allows the purified water W2 flowing through the dosing unit 4 _f wherein the purified water W2 is re mineralized. The dosing unit 4 contains one or more containers 41, 42, 43 which contain substances suitable for the re-mineralization and/or flavouring of the purified water W2. The filtration unit 3, and in particular the reverse osmostic membrane 33 may have removed from the tap water W1 some mineral elements which are needed for the drinkable water W3. It is thus necessary to refill the purified water W2 with such mineral elements, in a controlled manner.

[0052] In an embodiment, the dosing unit 4 comprises three containers 41 , 42, 43, of which two are used for re-mineralization and one is used for additional flavouring. Each of the containers is filled with a releasable material. A releasable material denotes any material necessary to re mineralize, or flavour, or preserve the water circulating within the dosage unit 4. Thus, a releasable material may be selected among minerals, flavours, preservatives, or any other additives. The containers 41, 42, 43, are inserted into the dosing base 45, which contains three micro motors 410, 420, 430, which drive micro pumps 411, 421, 431, integrated in the containers. The micro pumps 411 , 421 , 431, may have a predetermined delivery capacity per revolution, such as a capacity of around 16 pi. However, other capacities can be considered. The revolution speed is controlled by a micro controller C2 and depends on the purified water W2 flow rate, on the concentration of re mineralization and flavouring concentrates which need to be added to the purified water W2. Other parameters may be considered such as the pH or the conductivity of the purified water W2. Each micro-motor 410, 420, 430 is preferably independently managed. In addition, the amount of minerals added to the purified water W2 may be accommodated according to the preferences of the user. Any one of the micro motors 410, 420, 430 can thus deliver a dose of the corresponding concentrate, which is comprised between a low value and a high value. The user can choose a low mineralized water or a highly mineralized water, as well as the type of mineral material which should predominate. Water having high amount of magnesium or calcium or other mineral can then be produced. The micro-controller C2 may be integrated to the controlling unit 6.

[0053] In case the micro pump 411, 421, 431 fails (i.e. blockage of motors or gears) the micro-motor 410, 420, 430 temperature may rise. A current limiter is provided to protect a micro-motor from overheating when fully blocked. In addition, a micro controller supervises the micro-motors and can detect abnormal behaviour of the motors and stop the motors. During normal operation, the surface temperature of the micro-motor is expected to reach 20°C above ambient. Therefore materials surrounding the micro pump motor withstands a minimum temperature of 60 °C. [0054] One of the containers 41, 42, 43 comprises a flavour concentrate, which can be delivered on demand to the purified water W2. Although a minimal amount of mineral should be delivered to the purified water W2 for rendering it drinkable, it is not necessary that a flavour is delivered. Thus, the corresponding micro motor may be activated or not. Also the amount of the flavour concentrate can be selected. More than one container of flavour can be arranged, in such a way that the user has a choice between different possible selections. Flavours related to lemon taste, or green tea, or verbena, or jasmine, or any other available flavours can be inserted in the purification device 1. [0055] The microcontroller C2 may be the same as the microcontroller C1 or a different one. Alternatively, both micro controllers C1 and C2 designate the controlling unit e. [0056] Each container 41, 42, 43 comprises a memory element 46, such as, for example, a key print or a RFID memory which is used to detect the presence of a container within the purification device 1 and contains information regarding type of concentrate (in all common languages), initial fill level, actual fill level and a pictogram for containers with flavours. This information is used to display container information and current fill level. In addition, additional information can be stored in the memory element 46, for instance a graphical representation of the content in the container, or parameters to process a certain flavour. The memory element 46 may be provided with one or more electronic connectors which can be connected to a corresponding receiver 47 on the dosing base 45. Alternative devices may be used to recognize the containers 41, 42, 43. For example RFID labels or other readable memory can be integrated or affixed on the containers 41, 42, 43. In a preferred arrangement, an RFID memory is used. The memory element 46 or any other related device, also allows to certify the origin of the containers and their contents.

[0057] The memory element 46 may in addition store data related to the usage of the corresponding container 41, 42, 43. One or more of the status related to the amount of the releasable material contained in the container may be monitored. For example, the status related to "empty", "full", and "intermediate" can be monitored. The progressive decrease of the releasable material may be displayed on a human-machine interface such as a display 7. A graphical scale may show the progressive decreasing of the amount of releasable material of a given container, until the corresponding container becomes "empty".

[0058] In an embodiment, the base of the containers 41, 42, 43 locks mechanically to the dosing base 45 and it is welded to a collapsible bag containing the releasable material. The collapsible bag allows to prevent the creation of a low pressure in the container when the concentrate is pumped out the container 41, 42, 43. The collapsible bag also allows to preserve the releasable material from air. The corresponding releasable material, and in particular when it is a flavour, is thus preserved from degradation. The dosing unit 4 may in addition optionally be provided with means for maintaining fresh temperatures in case the flavours contained in the containers are sensitive to long exposure to high temperatures.

[0059] The containers 41, 42, 43 are preferably hermetically closed and cannot be refilled. Once a container is empty, it may be replaced by a new one, containing either the same flavour or another one. In case the user wants to change flavour of the beverages, he may input through the command unit 7 the nature of the new type of flavour he has inserted in the purification device 1. Preferably, the new container, provided with a memory element 46, automatically provides the information to the controlling unit 6. In this way, the controlling unit 6 can propose to the user the selection of flavours which are effectively available.

[0060] In more details, a container 41, 42, 43 comprises a housing, one or more fixation means to dock the corresponding container 41, 42, 43 onto the dosing docking station 45 of the purification device, a micro-pump 411, 421, 431 designed to cooperate with micro-motors integrated to the dosing docking station 45 of the purification device 1, and designed to deliver a predetermined amount of the releasable material per revolution, and a memory element 46. The housing is preferably a rigid box, having a parallelepiped shape or another shape. Such housing comprises a collapsible bag wherein a releasable material is contained, the collapsible bag being welded internally to the housing.

[0061] Each one of the containers 41, 42, 43 is independently available through usual or specific distribution ways. Alternatively, they may be sold as a kit of several containers. A kit may comprise for example a set of 3 containers comprising the necessary mineralization containers and a flavour container, a set of several flavour containers, or a set of the necessary mineralisation containers completed with a selection of several flavour containers. The kit may further comprise some additive used for the maintenance or the cleaning of the purification device 1. The kit may further comprise written information related either to the composition of the flavours or the maintenance of the purification device 1, or the recycling of empty containers, or any other relevant information. The kit may in addition or alternatively comprise some accessories, such one or more cups specifically designed for the purification device 1. Such specific cups are preferably provided with a detection means, in such a way that are detected when they are placed on the drinkable water docking station 53. [0062] By flowing through the dosing unit 4, the purified water W2 becomes drinkable water W3. It is ready to be dispensed through the dispensing unit 5. The dispensing unit 5 may comprise an adjustable faucet 55 allowing to adjust the height of the water outlet. The adjustable faucet feeds the drinkable water W3 to a water jar 51, which can be the tap water jar 21 or another one, or to a cup. Due to the height differences between the jar 51 and a standard cup, water spillage occurs when the water is feed from too high into a cup. The design of the faucet 55 is such that the faucet outlet can be brought near to the cup surface. The faucet 55 may be designed as a foldout pipe. When the faucet 55 is in its upright position, adapted for a jar filling, the pipe can fold into the structure of the purification device 1 in a way to not be visible, except for the parting lines and the water outlet. When the faucet 55 is folded out, in a position adapted for a cup filling, the faucet 55 may accommodate cups with a radius of up to around 80 mm diameter. [0063] The dispensing unit 5 comprises a drinkable docking station 53.

The drinkable water docking station 53 guides the drinkable water jar 51 during insertion. It holds the drinkable water jar 51 firmly in place. It may have a dented area to indicate the position where to place a cup when the jar is not needed. [0064] The drinkable water docking station 53 may be provided with channel overflow to guide the potential water to overflow bin 60 in the base of the purification device 1.

[0065] It further contains one or more load cells 54 allowing to determine the drinkable jar water 51 weight and to calculate a water flow rate or one of these two operations. It may further comprise a sensor allowing to determine whether the drinkable water jar 51 is present or not. Such a sensor is preferably a switch which can be activated or deactivated according to a predetermine angle position of the spout.

[0066] The drinkable water jar sensor is preferably a reed relay located inside the drinkable water docking station 53 and senses the presence of the drinkable water jar 51. When the drinkable water jar 51 is not present, a micro controller limits the maximum water feed to a cup to a predetermined value, such as around 200 ml or 100 ml or another predetermined value.

[0067] The drinkable water jar 51 holds the drinkable water. It may be provided with a handle 510, which can be an integrated handle, allowing easy transportation of the drinkable water W3. The drinkable water jar 55 contains a cap 520 to prevent falling of particles into the jar. The cap is preferably a pluggable cap. The drinkable water jar 55 may be provided with a magnet, which allows the hall sensor in the docking station to detect its presence. The magnet is preferably placed at the bottom of the drinkable water jar 55. If the jar is not present, the maximum amount of fluid to a cup served is limited to a predetermined amount of drinkable water W3, such as 200 ml.

[0068] When a pipe, joint or component breaks, water spillage can occur inside of the purification device 1. A micro controller can detect severe water spillage and turn off the purification device 1. However, small leakages (dripping) cannot be detected. A small overflow bin 60 - accessible from the outside - is located inside the purification device 1 to collect dripping water if this shall occur. In any case all electronic circuits are protected from water spillage to prevent a fire hazard. The protection has at least a IP65 rating. [0069] During the operation of the purification device 1 about 50 Watt of heat is generated inside the purification device 1. The boiler B alone contributes 30 W. Ample ventilation is provided to limit the temperature increase inside of the purification device 1 during continuous operation to 10°C. [0070] The electronic part of the purification device 1 is divided in three distinct sections: 1) low voltage control circuits PCB (micro controller and associated circuits, 2) display PCB including touch buttons and LEDs and display and 3) power PCB including high voltage circuits (relays, low voltage PSU and micro motor drivers). The low voltage control circuit PCB and the display PCB are preferably attached to the front side of the purification device 1 beneath the control surface and whereas the power, high voltage circuit board is located inside the purification device 1. Regarding the connection to the mains supply, the machine may have a detachable power cord with a socket compliant to IEC/EN 60320-1 C20.

[0071] The purification device 1 is provided with a command unit 7. The command unit 7 allows to select some parameters or instructions through a human machine interface. To this end, the command unit 7 can comprise a display 71 , wherein commands may be selected through one or more menus. It may further comprise a keyboard 72 or several touches allowing to navigate in the menu and select the desired instructions. Touches may be touch sensitive buttons. The instructions may be related to the language of interaction, the settings of the purification device 1, the maintenance including the replacement of a filtering element or a dosing element and the cleaning of the purification device 1. The corresponding information may be displayed by words or by pictures or by a combination of words and pictures. Colours may also help understanding the nature of the instructions.

[0072] The display 71 of the command unit 7 is also able to provide information regarding the status of the purification device 1. For example, some alerts or warning messages may be displayed in case of a failure or a malfunction or a necessary maintenance operation arises. The alert may also be an audio alert for a given type of events or for all events. The alerting messages comprise the replacement of a filtering element or a dosing element, the absence of jar 21, 51 on its corresponding docking station, the absence of water in the tap water jar 51, or a low level of water in the tap water jar 21, a failure regarding the pressure or the temperature of the water, a lack of concentrate in a container of the dosing unit 4, a low flow rate, a leakage, and any other relevant information. [0073] The display 71 of the command unit 7 may further provide guidance to the user for the maintenance operations. Various steps may be sequentially displayed to guide the user step by step. Sensors of the purification device 1 may recognize when a step has been performed in such a way that the following step is automatically displayed. Alternatively, the user needs to press a confirmation button at each step. For example, when a container of the dosing unit 4 is empty, an alert message is provided to induce the user to replace the corresponding container, which may be identified by its location or by a number. The steps related to the replacement of a container include one or more of the following:

- the opening of the corresponding cover,

- the removal of the empty container, which may be automatically recognized through the memory element 46 of the container or any other readable memory, - the positioning of a novel container, which may be automatically recognized through the memory element 46 of the container or any other readable memory,

- the locking of the container,

- an automatic initialisation step, wherein the memory element 46 of the new container is red and recognized as being suitable or not suitable. In case a flavour different from the previous one is inserted, the initialisation step recognizes the nature of the new flavour.

- An optional refusal step in case the new container is not suitable,

- The closing of the cover. [0074] The present invention further encompasses a process for producing a beverage. In particular, such process comprises the steps of placing a tap water jar 21 on a docking station 22 of the purification device 1, the step of selecting through a command unit 7 comprising a human- machine interface, one or more of the type of flavour, the quantity and the temperature of the beverage, and a step of placing a dedicated cup or jar on the drinkable docking station of the purification device 1. [0075] All functions of the command unit may also be remotely controlled through a wired or wireless link connected to a computer such as a desk top computer, a portable device such as a smart phone or a tablet computer any other device.

[0076] The feeding unit 2 of the purification device 1 has been described here with a tap water jar 21 and a docking station 22. The purification device 1 may however be integral to a kitchen sink, in such a way that the docking station 22 and the tap water jar 21 are no longer necessary. The arrangement of the docking station 22 may thus be replaced by a direct fluidic connexion to the water main pipe or to a secondary water pipe already present in the kitchen. It is furthermore considered that the filtration unit 3 is adapted to the local quality of the supplied water. For example, in case the house is provided with a central system of filtration for softening the water, the filtration unit 3 may comprise less or more or different cartridges. The embodiments here provided are thus not limitative and one skilled in the art understands how the water purification device 1 of the present invention can be adapted to various situations.

The following embodiments further describe the invention, either alone or taken in combination: Embodiment 1 : Device for water purification and remineralization, the device comprising:

- Pumping means, a filtration system and a mineralization system in fluid connection for successively filtering and mineralizing some water, said pumping means being designed for pumping water to be filtered and mineralized though said filtration system and said mineralization system,

- said filtration system being designed for filtering water to be filtered, said filtration system comprising at least one filtration cartridge, - said mineralisation system being designed for mineralizing the filtered water provided by the filtration system to produce mineralized and filtered water, said mineralisation system comprising at least one mineralisation cartridge, characterized in that each mineralization cartridge comprises a pump module received within said mineralization cartridge, said pump module being designed for releasing a predetermined dose of minerals from said mineralization cartridge in the flow of filtrated water exiting the filtration system.

Embodiment 2: Device wherein the mineralization system further comprises at least one docking area, each docking area being designed for being coupled with one mineralization cartridge, each docking area comprising an actuator for actuating the release of the dose of minerals from the mineralization cartridge when said cartridge is coupled with said docking area. Embodiment 3: Device wherein said filtration cartridge can be attached horizontally to the device and locked or unlocked by at least a lever.

Embodiment 4: Device wherein the device comprises movable exit channel, for instance a faucet, to adjust the exit of the filtrated and mineralized water to the dimensions of an output container designed for receiving the filtrated and mineralized water, in particular the height.

Embodiment 5: Device wherein the filtration system comprises at least one cartridge chosen among sediment based filtering cartridge, active coal based filtering cartridge and reverse osmosis based filtering cartridge, preferably the system comprises one sediment based filtering cartridge, one active charcoal based filtering cartridge, and one reverse osmosis based filtering cartridge. Embodiment 6: Device wherein the water is filtrated by flowing through at least two different filters, preferably though three different filters.

Embodiment 7: Device wherein the water is filtrated by flowing through a sediment based filtering cartridge, an active coal based filtering cartridge and a reverse osmosis based filtering cartridge, preferably successively through a sediment based filtering cartridge, an active coal based filtering cartridge and a reverse osmosis based filtering cartridge.

Embodiment 8: Device wherein the device comprises at least two mineralization cartridges, preferably two cartridges.

Embodiment 9: Device wherein the content of the mineralization of said mineralization cartridge is released, preferably continuously, from said mineralization cartridge in predetermined dose, preferable 16 pi, into the filtrated water. Embodiment 10: Device wherein each mineralization cartridge is capable of providing about 300 L of mineralized water.

Embodiment 11 : Device wherein the predetermined dose of minerals is an aqueous solution of minerals and possibly other chemical compounds. Embodiment 12: Device wherein the device further comprises heating means for heating the filtered and mineralized water and releasing the heated water once the water has reached a predetermined temperature, for instance 70, otherwise the water is recirculated in said device.

Embodiment 13: Device wherein the device comprising cooling means for cooling filtered and mineralized water below room temperature, for instance between 4 degree and 20 degree, preferably between 8 degree and 12 degree.

Embodiment 14: Device further comprising an input container and an output container, said input container comprising water to be cleaned and mineralized, said output container comprising purified and mineralized water. Device further comprising an input container and an output container, said input container comprising water to be cleaned and mineralized, said output container comprising purified and flavoured water.

Embodiment 15: Device wherein the input container is a removable reservoir or a removable tap water jar, and the output container is a removable clean water jar.

Embodiment 16: Device wherein the removable reservoir, the tap jar or the output container have an electronic weighing system to determine the weight of the jar and the water in side wherein said removable reservoir, said tap jar or said output container.

Embodiment 16: Device wherein the removable reservoir, the tap water jar or the output jar have a mean to measure the total dissolved solids (TDS)

Embodiment 17: Device wherein said output container a jar, for instance a 1.5 L jar, or a glass, for instance a 300 ml. glass.

Embodiment 18: Device wherein the mineralization cartridge comprises a data storing device, for instance a microchip, for storing the information regarding the cartridge, for instance the content of the cartridge in a graphical representation or the capacity of the cartridge. Device wherein the mineralization cartridge comprises a RFID memory, for storing the information regarding the cartridge, for instance the content of the cartridge in a graphical representation or the capacity of the cartridge, or the fill level, or the processing temperature.

Embodiment 19: Device wherein the device further comprises user display designed for displaying the information stored in the data storing device.

Embodiment 20: Device wherein the device is arranged to execute automatically a self-cleaning program, for instance after a predetermined number of uses or after a predetermined time of use.

Embodiment 21 : Device wherein the machine is arranged for being fully automatic so that on demand, for instance by pressing one button, the device provides filtered and mineralized water. Embodiment 22: Device wherein the device comprises recirculation means allowing to redirect between about 75 and 85 % of the filtered water back into the filter system, preferably 80 %.

Embodiment 23: Device wherein device is arranged for providing 1.5 L of filtrated and mineralized water in less than 10 min, preferably less than 8 min, more preferably less than 6 min.

Embodiment 24: Device wherein the device further comprise at least one beverage flavour cartridge for adding a beverage flavour to the filtered and mineralized water, for instance tea, fruit flavour.

Embodiment 25: Device wherein the flavour cartridge comprises a data storing device, for instance a microchip, for storing the information regarding the cartridge, for instance the content of the cartridge in a graphical representation or the capacity of the cartridge. Embodiment 26: Device wherein the filter system is arranged for filtering bacteria, chlorine, pollutants, radioactive particles.

Embodiment 27: Cartridge for filtrating water in a device according to any one of embodiments 1 to 27, wherein the cartridge comprises fastening means allowing facilitating the installation of the cartridge on the device with fast locking means, preferably in a force free manner.