EP1081299A1 - Service method for a fluid flushable sanitary appliance, device for the control of a service method and device for maintaining water level in a siphon - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves setting up several differently conducted servicing sequences, selecting at least one of the servicing sequences and applying the servicing sequence(s) according to its(their) definition. The servicing sequences contain at least one flushing sequence (S1-S5), at least one maintenance cleaning sequence (U1-U3) and at least one diagnostic sequence (D1). Independent claims are also included for a controller and for a device for maintaining an odour block in an odour trap.

Description

The invention relates to a service method for a liquid-flushable sanitary apparatus according to the preamble of claim 1 , a control device for controlling a service method according to the preamble of claim 9 and a device for maintaining an odor block in an odor trap of a sanitary apparatus according to the Preamble of claim 19 .

Flushing processes in sanitary appliances that can be flushed with liquid have three main objectives: firstly, the one mixed with urine and / or faeces should be in the bowls of the sanitary appliances existing rinsing liquid, generally water, with additional rinsing liquid be swept away; secondly, the formation of deposits from dirt, urine stone and lime in the interior of the bowls and in the piping system connected to the bowls the sanitary appliances should be prevented, and thirdly, missing, for example, evaporated Flushing liquid to be replaced so that the limit level is maintained or is again achieved to ensure an odor barrier in the downstream of the Sanitary appliances arranged odor trap is necessary.

In order to achieve a high standard of hygiene and avoid odor immissions, it is common practice to rinse after each use. Here on the one hand there is a need to rinse with large amounts of water in the interest of hygiene and there are even regulations in some countries, according to which at least a part of the rinses with a certain minimum amount Flushing liquid is to be carried out. On the other hand there is rinsing liquid, especially water, not available in any quantities or only at high prices. So there has to be one optimal solution can be found in which the consumption of rinsing liquid is so great as necessary but, of course, in compliance with any regulations, is as small as possible.

In order to achieve these goals in sanitary appliances intended for general use in public sanitary facilities, for example in train stations, and in semi-public sanitary facilities, in schools or restaurants, for example, are common Service procedures applied, in the execution of which the rinsing processes are automated or controlled.

Simple service procedures are designed so that after each use of the sanitary equipment a rinsing process is in progress. Between these when using the sanitary apparatus Initialized rinses are pauses in rinsing, the duration of which depends on the frequency the use of the sanitary facilities is different. Evaporates during the rinsing breaks part of the water in the bowl. Long rinsing breaks can therefore especially at high ambient temperatures, result in a proportionate large amount of detergent evaporates, with the result that the water level of the liquid in the bowl drops below a limit level at which an odor barrier between the bowl and the sewage system leading away from it consists. In the simplest of these service procedures, the duration of the rinsing processes is constant. In view of the different uses of the sanitary appliances, the different Amounts of flushing fluid that are affordable, the different Qualities of the rinsing liquids and the different ambient temperatures differently located sanitary facilities but service procedures are preferred, at which the duration of the rinsing processes, i.e. the rinsing time, in coordination with the respective Ratios is adjustable.

The duration of the rinsing process is generally set on a device to control the flushing device, for example via a potentiometer or an infrared interface, by rotating a setting member, for example by means of a Screwdriver.

The known simple service procedures have numerous disadvantages. So, find with Except for setting the duration of the rinses, no adjustment to the actually prevailing conditions take place, furthermore it is during adjustment processes via rotatable Setting elements such as rotary knobs are fundamentally difficult, the duration of the rinsing processes Adjust conditions accordingly; the service staff judged in fact sensitive especially the amount of flushing fluid needed and the existing correlation difficult to understand the flushing time and quantity of flushing liquid. Particularly requires the setting of a potentiometer or an infrared interface as described above numerous attempts at optimization during commissioning and is therefore time-consuming and also expensive.

Another service method has recently become known in which the The duration of the rinsing process can be set via an infrared remote control. Also with this method, however, there is an adaptation to the actual respective conditions of use individual sanitary facilities not possible, and the use of an infrared remote control has proven to be problematic because there is visual contact between the transmitter operated by the cleaning staff and the permanently installed receiver must be, which means that the recipient is not trained vandal-proof and can be arranged, or at least not vandal-proof in its function is.

Regardless of whether the flushing time by turning an adjusting element or by infrared remote control the previously known service procedures have the disadvantage of savings only allow a very limited amount of flushing liquid. If there is in tests shows that the required to meet the required hygiene standard Amount of rinsing liquid below a minimum amount that is legally required in most countries lies; this means that this prescribed minimum quantity must be used for every flushing process be consumed, since the official regulations are not disregarded allowed to. The theoretically possible saving in rinsing liquid cannot be realized become.

The previously known service procedures are also unsatisfactory in the following, because only the flushing operations mentioned can be carried out with them. These flushing processes but are generally not enough to keep a sanitary appliance for a long time to keep in perfect condition. To ensure a hygienic and odorless Achieving and maintaining condition must also be done periodically or as required Maintenance cleaning can be carried out.

In addition, the known service procedures are unsatisfactory because they are common Faults due to wear and tear on components of the sanitary equipment or improper Do not detect or signal use of the sanitary appliances or not diagnose.

A common problem that arises in the cleaning and maintenance of plumbing equipment How urinals poses is that the work required is unpopular and in favor of it generally only find unqualified personnel. Implementation of automated Service procedure is thus pressing to the incompetence of unqualified Compensate staff at least partially. However, automated service procedures can and the control devices used to carry them out only with Success can be used if they are of unqualified and possibly the usual Local language can only be mastered by limited powerful staff.

Conventional remote control devices could be used to control the new service procedure are used, for example remote control devices with optical signal transmission such as infrared, also TV or video systems and high-frequency systems such as those used in remote controls for door and car locks come. However, all of these systems have certain disadvantages. Control devices with Infrared signal transmission requires visual contact and optics that are not vandal-proof can be trained. Control devices with high-frequency signal transmission are unfavorable if the receivers are close together, as is the case with Urinals are the case in larger sanitary facilities. So that a receiver does not receive signals is influenced, which are intended for another recipient, a corresponding Coding done; this has the disadvantageous consequence that either for each recipient a separate control device must be provided or that the coding to the respective recipient must be adjusted.

To carry out the service method mentioned above, which has recently become known, where only the duration of the rinsing processes, i.e. the rinsing time, by infrared remote control is adjustable, two control units are used to control the control device needed. A first operating unit only serves to control the system switch off and thereby allow manual cleaning of the bowl while which no unintended rinsing takes place; this first control unit is simple in terms of their training and handling. A second control unit is used to set the rinsing time, to carry out emptying of the rinsing system when there are upcoming low ambient temperatures and to query the number of performed Douching and diagnosis of malfunctions; has this second control unit the aspect of a remote control and is therefore neither in their training nor easy to use. Because of this, seeming posh for everyday cleaning Staff only to be determined during the first, simple control unit the second, complicated control unit by periodically trained specialists is operated. However, this creates the disadvantage that in the event of a dysfunction before When the specialists arrive, there is only the possibility to interrupt the rinsing process and practically blocking the use of the affected bowl. To carry out this service procedure is therefore relatively complex and not easy operating units to be operated required; nevertheless this service procedure unsatisfactory because the permanently installed control elements are not vandal-proof, and because, as with traditional service procedures, only the duration of the rinsing process can be adjusted; the latter in particular has the unpleasant consequence that how set out below, the maintenance of the odor barrier is not guaranteed.

As already mentioned, the flushing liquid is introduced into the bowls of sanitary appliances such as urinals not only for the purpose of washing away of rinsing fluid already mixed in the urine but also in the bowl for the purpose of maintaining the odor barrier between the bowl and its Environment on the one hand and the sewer system connected downstream of it on the other hand. By arranging a conventional so-called odor trap or siphons between the bowl and the sewer system To a certain extent, the flushing liquid acts as a plug, which prevents air from circulating between prevents the bowl and its surroundings and the sewer system; this Grafting is of course only possible if the water level is correct the rinsing liquid is high enough. As soon as the level of the rinsing liquid falls below one certain limit level drops, this plug effect disappears and the mentioned Air circulation begins, with the result that in the area of the sanitary apparatus unpleasant smell immissions occur. The sinking level of the rinsing liquid can have different causes, which of course also occur in combination can. Evaporation can be a cause for the drop in the level of the rinsing liquid a small part of the dishwashing liquid present in the bowl; This is then the case when the sanitary apparatus is not used for a long time and therefore no rinsing process takes place. Another reason for the drop in the water level the rinsing liquid is a suction of rinsing liquid due to a negative pressure in the sewer system, which can occur when flushing adjacent bowls. Another cause for the drop in the level of the rinsing liquid is the emergence an overpressure in the room in which the sanitary apparatus is stationed, for example when a door to an adjacent room is opened with higher pressure. In order to avoid the undesirable odor immissions, it is, as already mentioned, necessary, the level of the rinsing liquid in the odor trap above a Limit level to maintain the mentioned plug effect by the rinsing liquid in the odor trap or siphon. Although this applies to each only the addition of a small amount of rinsing liquid would be necessary, the odor barrier not guarantee with the previously known service procedures, namely always when, on the one hand, the level drops below the limit level mentioned and on the other hand, not immediately after this sinking, use of the sanitary apparatus and the subsequent rinsing of the bowl takes place. The odor barrier can therefore only be maintained if automatically immediately after the drop the limit water level even when the sanitary apparatus is not in use even a small amount of dishwashing liquid into the bowl and from there into the odor trap or can get into the siphon. The automatic feeding of Flushing fluid as part of an improved service procedure could indeed be caused by a Signal of an odor sensor can be initiated, which is arranged in the room of the sanitary apparatus is, but such a method is very expensive in terms of equipment, partly because Odor sensors are expensive and delicate and because they only emit weak signals that in order to be usable for a control, must be strengthened vigorously. As a result it seems more promising to maintain the odor barrier in another way to integrate into a service procedure.

• ein Service-Verfahren der eingangs genannten Art aufzuzeigen, welches die genannten Nachteile vermeidet und es erlaubt, Sanitärapparate mühelos unter Gewährleistung der Geruchssperre in hygienisch einwandfreiem und gebrauchstüchtigem Zustand zu halten;
• eine Steuereinrichtung zur Steuerung von Service-Verfahren zu schaffen, und
• eine Vorrichtung zur Aufrechterhaltung einer Geruchssperre in einem Geruchsverschluss eines Sanitär-Apparates vorzuschlagen.

It is therefore an object of the invention

• to show a service procedure of the type mentioned at the outset, which avoids the disadvantages mentioned and makes it possible to keep sanitary appliances in a hygienically perfect and usable condition with ease, while ensuring the odor barrier;
• to create a control device for controlling service processes, and
• to propose a device for maintaining an odor barrier in an odor trap of a sanitary appliance.

• für das Service-Verfahren durch die Merkmale des kennzeichnenden Teils des Anspruchs 1;
• für die Steuereinrichtung durch die Merkmale des kennzeichnenden Teils des Anspruchs 9; und
• für die Vorrichtung zur Aufrechterhaltung der Geruchssperre durch die Merkmale des kennzeichnenden Teils des Anspruchs 19.

The solution of this object is achieved according to the invention

• for the service procedure by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1 ;
• for the control device by the features of the characterizing part of claim 9 ; and
• for the device for maintaining the odor barrier by the features of the characterizing part of claim 19 .

Advantageous developments of the service method according to the invention, the control device according to the invention and the device according to the invention for maintaining the odor barrier are defined by the respective dependent claims 2 to 8 or 10 to 18 or 20 to 22 .

With the new service procedure, the duration of a rinsing process is therefore not the rinse time is set, but there are various service sequences preset, from which a service frequency is called up can.

The service sequences include rinsing sequences that are in the normal state, that is usual use of the sanitary apparatus, run according to the different Ratios of differently initiated and differently running rinsing sequences can be preset. All rinsing sequences consist of rinsing processes that are in intervals and / or after use and / or to comply with the odor barrier guaranteeing level of the rinsing liquid, preferably the Time intervals of the rinses and the amounts of rinsing liquid used in each case can be adjusted. Can be between the rinsing sequences or integrated into them Additive processes are provided in which an additive is brought into the bowl; cleaning, disinfecting, decalcifying or fragrance agents or combinations are used as additives such means in question; the automated addition of such additives offers a guarantee for the fact that they are actually used and in the correct dosage.

In addition, maintenance cleaning sequences can be provided, which between two phases of the normal state take place and for periodic thorough cleaning to care. The maintenance cleaning sequences can include rinsing breaks, rinsing processes and Additive operations include. As with the rinsing sequences, the maintenance cleaning sequences are also available different variants available; but during rinsing sequences generally carried out the same variant continuously or for a long time is then the preferred option when carrying out any maintenance cleaning or a suitable maintenance cleaning sequence from the preset maintenance cleaning sequences to be selected.

Not just the normal or everyday maintenance through the maintenance cleaning sequences to ensure but also to enable further maintenance, the service sequences can also include diagnostic sequences with whose Various types of faults can be detected and displayed. Both Disruptions can be wear-related or incorrect manipulations caused or due to lack of energy or lack of flushing fluid act.

The advantages of the new service procedure are obvious. There are many different Set service sequences so that the service procedure is not just the usual one Rinsing processes but also ensuring the odor barrier and the periodic Maintenance cleaning carried out and additional faults detected and displayed can be. The rinsing sequences, which are the usual ones Rinses can also correspond to the respective conditions in a simple manner be set; this not only achieves hygiene and smell impeccable conditions but can also the detergent or water consumption minimize in line with prevailing needs.

The maintenance cleaning sequences enable the additional periodic maintenance cleaning to be carried out flawlessly even if no qualified personnel is available; in particular, additives such as cleaning agents or decalcifying agents can also be added in the required dosage. The diagnostic sequences finally, it makes it possible to carry out further maintenance without any problems; Faults or signs of wear are displayed or can be detected early and also by unqualified personnel; you can in the Follow by specialists during a phase of less use of the sanitary facility be remedied before the sanitary facility fails completely due to a major defect; It is particularly advantageous that the specialists are informed of the type of fault can, so that the necessary spare parts and tools without previewing the Damage can be put together and brought.

The control device for controlling service processes comprises only one control unit per sanitary appliance and a single control unit for a variety of sanitary appliances, recoding does not correspond to the respective control unit necessary is. The control unit can be mounted in a vandal-proof manner because of the signal transmission does not take place by infrared and therefore requires no line of sight. The control unit is simple in structure and handling.

The device for maintaining the odor barrier comprises a sensor that is switched on a suitable place downstream of the bowl in the odor trap or Siphons of a sanitary apparatus is installed and that when the water level drops of the detergent below a limit level emits a signal that the washing device prompted to perform a rinse or to dispense a small amount of water, which is enough to restore the odor barrier. The sensor can be the same which is also used to initiate use-induced flushing processes. This device is simple to set up, but allows it in an efficient and water-saving manner almost permanent maintenance of the odor barrier.

Fig. 1

eine Übersicht über die zur Verfügung stehenden Service-Sequenzen des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in schematischer Darstellung;

Fig. 2A

das Vorgehen bei der Anwahl einer Spül-Sequenz aus mehreren voreingestellten Spül-Sequenzen, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 2B

eine erste Spül-Sequenz des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 2C

eine zweite Spül-Sequenz des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 2D

eine dritte Spül-Sequenz des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 2E

eine vierte Spül-Sequenz des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 2F

eine fünfte Spül-Sequenz des Service-Verfahrens nach der Erfindung, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 3

Das Vorgehen bei der Anwahl einer Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz aus mehreren zur Verfügung stehenden Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenzen und die Schritte der Unterhaltsreiniguns-Sequenzen, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 4

das Vorgehen bei der Anwahl einer Diagnose-Sequenz und die Diagnose-Schritte der Diagnose-Sequenz, in einem Flussdiagramm;

Fig. 5A

ein flüssigkeitsspülbarer Sanitär-Apparat in Form eines Urinals, mit einer in einer ersten Position montierten Steuereinheit; vereinfacht, in einer seitlichen Ansicht;

Fig. 5B

den in Fig. 5A dargestellten Sanitär-Apparat mit einer in einer zweiten Position montierten Steuereinheit; in gleicher Darstellung wie Fig. 5A;

Fig. 6A

eine Steuereinrichtung nach der Erfindung, in vereinfachter Darstellung;

Fig. 6B

die Bedienungseinheit der in Fig. 6A dargestellten Steuereinrichtung beim Emittieren eines Kommandosignals, in vereinfachter Darstellung;

Fig. 6C

eine Steuereinrichtung einer Sanitär-Anlage mit drei Steuereinheiten und einer Bedienungseinheit, in vereinfachter Darstellung;

Fig. 6D

drei durch einen Bus verbundene Steuereinheiten einer Steuereinrichtung, in vereinfachter Darstellung;

Fig. 7A

ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiels eines Geruchsverschlusses beziehungsweise Siphons eines Sanitär-Apparates, in einem Schnitt senkrecht zur Symmetrieachse des Sanitär-Apparates;

Fig. 7B

ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiels eines Geruchsverschlusses beziehungsweise Siphons eines Sanitär-Apparates, in gleicher Darstellung wie Fig. 7A; und

Fig. 7C

den in Fig. 7B dargestellten Geruchsverschluss beziehungsweise Siphon, von vorn;

Further details and advantages of the invention are described in detail below using exemplary embodiments and with reference to the drawing. Show it:

Fig. 1

an overview of the available service sequences of the service method according to the invention, in a schematic representation;

Figure 2A

the procedure for selecting a rinsing sequence from several preset rinsing sequences in a flow chart;

Figure 2B

a first rinsing sequence of the service method according to the invention, in a flow chart;

Figure 2C

a second rinsing sequence of the service method according to the invention, in a flow chart;

Figure 2D

a third rinsing sequence of the service method according to the invention, in a flow chart;

Figure 2E

a fourth rinsing sequence of the service method according to the invention, in a flow chart;

Figure 2F

a fifth rinsing sequence of the service method according to the invention, in a flow chart;

Fig. 3

The procedure for selecting a maintenance cleaning sequence from several available maintenance cleaning sequences and the steps of the maintenance cleaning sequences, in a flow chart;

Fig. 4

the procedure for selecting a diagnostic sequence and the diagnostic steps of the diagnostic sequence, in a flow chart;

Figure 5A

a liquid-flushable sanitary apparatus in the form of a urinal, with a control unit mounted in a first position; simplified, in a side view;

Figure 5B

the sanitary apparatus shown in Fig. 5A with a control unit mounted in a second position; in the same representation as FIG. 5A;

Figure 6A

a control device according to the invention, in a simplified representation;

Figure 6B

the operating unit of the control device shown in Fig. 6A when emitting a command signal, in a simplified representation;

Figure 6C

a control device of a sanitary facility with three control units and an operating unit, in a simplified representation;

Figure 6D

three control units of a control device connected by a bus, in a simplified representation;

Figure 7A

a first embodiment of an odor trap or siphon of a sanitary apparatus, in a section perpendicular to the axis of symmetry of the sanitary apparatus;

Figure 7B

a second embodiment of an odor trap or siphon of a sanitary apparatus, in the same representation as Fig. 7A; and

Figure 7C

the odor trap or siphon shown in Fig. 7B, from the front;

1 comprises a total of nine service sequences SS , namely five rinsing sequences S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, three maintenance cleaning sequences U1, U2, U3 and a diagnostic sequence D1 with five Diagnostic steps d1, d2, d3, d4, d5, which are described in more detail below; the times and amounts of rinsing liquid and the number and type of rinsing processes of the various service sequences are only given as examples and can vary within wide limits.

In the present exemplary embodiment, as mentioned, the five rinsing sequences S1 to S5 are provided, which are preset. For normal operation, one of the rinsing sequences is called up or selected either during assembly by a specialist or later by an operator 1 using an operating unit 10.1 via a control unit of a control device ( not shown in FIG. 1) . For this purpose, the operating unit 10.1 shown in FIG. 1 has three keys S, U and D. One of the preset rinsing sequences S1, S2, S3, S4 or S5 is selected using the S button on the operating unit 10.1 , one of the maintenance cleaning sequences U1 to U3 is selected using the U button on the control unit 10.1 and the diagnostic device is selected. Sequence D1 is carried out using key D of the command device 10.1 .

+

eine JA-Antwort

-

eine NEIN-Antwort

sa

Taste S wird gedrückt, nach 5 Sekunden ertönt während 0.5 Sekunden ein Signal

sb

1 Sekunde Wartezeit

sc

Frage 0 (Testfrage): beträgt die Zeitspanne seit Stromzufuhr weniger als 30 Minuten?

sd

wenn Anwort auf Frage 0

nein' ist: es erfolgt keine Funktion, die Voreinstellung der Spül-Sequenzen kann nicht geändert werden

se

wenn Antwort auf Frage 1 ja' ist: die Voreinstellung der Spülsequenzen S1 bis S5 kann geändert werden; 1 Sekunde Wartezeit

sf

Frage 1: wird Taste S immer noch gedrückt?

sg

wenn Antwort auf Frage 1 nein' ist: Spül-Sequenz S1 ist vorgewählt

sh

wenn Antwort auf Frage 1 ja' ist: es ertönt während 0.5 Sekunden ein Signal

si

1 Sekunde Wartezeit
etc. bis

sk

Frage 5: wird Taste S immer noch gedrückt?

sl

wenn Antwort auf Frage 5 nein' ist: Spül-Sequenz S5 ist vorgewählt

sm

wenn Antwort auf Frage 5 ja' ist: es erfolgt keine Funktion

From the various preset rinsing sequences S1 to S5 , a rinsing sequence is selected for normal operation by means of the key S in accordance with FIG . The steps to be performed in this selection are shown in the block diagram of FIG. 2A ; it mean

+

a YES answer

-

a NO answer

sat

Key S is pressed, after 5 seconds a signal sounds for 0.5 seconds

sb

1 second waiting time

sc

Question 0 (test question): is the time since power supply less than 30 minutes?

sd

if answer to question 0

no 'is: there is no function, the presetting of the rinsing sequences cannot be changed

se

if answer to question 1 yes' is: the pre-setting of the washing sequences S1 to S5 can be changed; 1 second waiting time

sf

Question 1: is the S key still pressed?

sg

if answer to question 1 no 'is: Rinsing sequence S1 is preselected

sh

if answer to question 1 yes' is: a signal sounds for 0.5 seconds

si

1 second waiting time
etc. to

sk

Question 5: is S still pressed?

sl

if answer to question 5 no 'is: Rinsing sequence S5 is preselected

sm

if answer to question 5 yes' is: there is no function

The sequence of the five preset rinsing sequences S1 to S5 is shown in FIGS. 2B to 2F ; where T means a time, Tstop means stopping the time, Treset resetting the time to zero, START the start of use, END the end of use, ODOR STOP the presence of an odor barrier .

• eine Kurzspülung Sk mit geringer Spülflüssigkeitsmenge, beispielsweise mit einem Liter, die nach jeder Benutzung stattfindet,
• eine Hauptspülung Sh mit grosser Spülflüssigkeitsmenge, beispielsweise vier Litern beziehungsweise mit der gegebenenfalls amtlich vorgeschriebene Minimalmenge, die fünfzehn Minuten nach der letzten Benutzung stattfindet, und
• eine Minimalspülung Sm beziehungsweise eine Zugabe einer Minimalmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, beispielsweise mit einem Deziliter, die bei Unterschreitung des minimalen, die Geruchssperre garantierenden Grenz-Pegelstandes der Spülflüssigkeit stattfindet.

If the first rinsing sequence S1 is selected, the following rinsing processes are carried out:

• a short rinse Sk with a small amount of rinsing liquid, for example with a liter, which takes place after each use
• a main rinse Sh with a large amount of rinsing liquid, for example four liters or with the officially prescribed minimum amount, which takes place fifteen minutes after the last use, and
• a minimum rinse Sm or an addition of a minimum amount of rinsing liquid, for example with a deciliter, which takes place when the rinsing liquid falls below the minimum limit level which guarantees the odor barrier.

• eine Vorspülung Sv mit einer Kleinstmenge Spülflüssigkeit, wenn zu Beginn des Gebrauchs die letzte durchgeführte Spülung mehr als zehn Minuten zurückliegt,
• eine Kurzspülung Sk mit geringer Spülflüssigkeitsmenge, die nach jeder Benutzung stattfindet,
• eine Hauptspülung Sh mit grosser Spülflüssigkeitsmenge, die fünfzehn Minuten nach der letzten Benutzung stattfindet, und
• eine Minimalspülung Sm beziehungsweise die Zugabe einer Minimalmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, die bei Unterschreitung des minimalen, die Geruchssperre garantierenden Pegelstandes der Spülflüssigkeit stattfindet.

Die zusätzliche Vorspülung Sv dient dazu, mindestens einen Teil einer Schüssel eines Sanitär-Apparates zu befeuchten, um Rückprall-Spritzer zu vermeiden.If the second rinsing sequence S2 is selected, the following rinsing processes are carried out:

• a pre-rinse Sv with a small amount of rinsing liquid if the last rinsing was more than ten minutes ago at the start of use,
• a short rinse Sk with a small amount of rinsing liquid, which takes place after each use,
• a main wash Sh with a large amount of wash liquid which takes place fifteen minutes after the last use, and
• a minimum flushing Sm or the addition of a minimum quantity of flushing liquid which takes place when the level of the flushing liquid, which guarantees the odor barrier, is undershot.

The additional pre-rinse Sv serves to moisten at least part of a bowl of a sanitary apparatus in order to avoid rebound splashes.

The first rinsing sequence S1 and the second rinsing sequence S2 are particularly suitable for sanitary appliances which are used very frequently for a short time and then no longer for a longer period, for example for schools, cinemas and similar areas, where each during Breaks a frequent use of the sanitary facilities takes place. The consumption of rinsing liquid can be greatly reduced in these rinsing sequences S1 and S2 .

• eine Vorspülung Sv mit einer Kleinstmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, wenn zu Beginn des Gebrauchs die letzte durchgeführte Spülung mehr als zehn Minuten zurückliegt,
• eine Hauptspülung Sh mit grosser Spülflüssigkeitsmenge, die nach jeder Benutzung stattfindet,
• eine Minimalspülung Sm beziehungsweise die Zugabe einer Minimalmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, die bei Unterschreitung des minimalen, die Geruchssperre garantierenden Grenz-Pegelstandes der Spülflüssigkeit stattfindet.

Diese dritte Spül-Sequenz S3 unterschiedet sich von der zweiten Spül-Sequenz S2 dadurch, dass nach jedem Gebrauch nicht nur eine Kurzspülung Sk sondern eine Hauptspülung Sh stattfindet; dafür entfällt die Hauptspülung Sh, die bei der zweiten Spül-Sequenz S2 jeweils fünfzehn Minuten nach dem jeweils letzten Gebrauch stattfindet.If the third rinsing sequence S3 is selected, the following rinsing processes are carried out:

• a pre-rinse Sv with a small amount of rinsing liquid if the last rinsing was more than ten minutes ago at the start of use,
• a main wash Sh with a large amount of wash liquid, which takes place after each use,
• a minimum rinse Sm or the addition of a minimum amount of rinsing liquid which takes place when the rinsing liquid falls below the minimum limit level which guarantees the odor barrier.

This third rinsing sequence S3 differs from the second rinsing sequence S2 in that after each use not only a short rinse Sk but a main rinse Sh takes place; the main wash Sh , which takes place in the second wash sequence S2 every fifteen minutes after the last use in each case, is omitted.

• eine Vorspülung Sv zu Beginn jeden Gebrauchs,
• eine Hauptspülung Sh mit grosser Menge an Spülflüssigkeit, die nach jeder Benutzung stattfindet,
• eine Minimalspülung Sm beziehungsweise die Zugabe einer Minimalmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, die bei Unterschreitung des minimalen, die Geruchssperre garantierenden Grenz-Pegelstandes der Spülflüssigkeit stattfindet.

Diese vierte Spül-Sequenz S4 unterscheidet sich von der dritten Spül Sequenz S3 dadurch, dass die Vorspülung Sv in jedem Falle stattfindet.If the fourth rinsing sequence S4 is selected, the following rinsing processes are carried out:

• a pre-wash Sv at the beginning of each use,
• a main wash Sh with a large amount of wash liquid which takes place after each use,
• a minimum rinse Sm or the addition of a minimum amount of rinsing liquid which takes place when the rinsing liquid falls below the minimum limit level which guarantees the odor barrier.

This fourth rinsing sequence S4 differs from the third rinsing sequence S3 in that the pre-rinsing Sv takes place in every case.

• eine Hauptspülung Sh mit grosser Spülflüssigkeitsmenge nach 20 Benutzungen oder 10 Minuten nach der letzten Benutzung,,
• eine Minimalspülung Sm beziehungsweise die Zugabe einer Minimalmenge an Spülflüssigkeit, die bei Unterschreitung des minimalen, die Geruchssperre garantierenden Grenz-Pegelstandes der Spülflüssigkeit stattfindet.

Diese fünfte Spül-Sequenz S5 ist gedacht für Fälle, bei denen eine sehr grosse Anzahl von Benutzungen in einer minimalen Zeit stattfindet und wo kein Höchststandard erwartet wird.If the fifth rinsing sequence S5 is selected, in contrast to the rinsing sequences S1 to S4 , a rinsing process does not take place after each use. The following rinsing processes are carried out:

• a main wash Sh with a large amount of rinsing liquid after 20 uses or 10 minutes after the last use ,,
• a minimum rinse Sm or the addition of a minimum amount of rinsing liquid which takes place when the rinsing liquid falls below the minimum limit level which guarantees the odor barrier.

This fifth rinsing sequence S5 is intended for cases in which a very large number of uses take place in a minimal time and where no maximum standard is expected.

Small amounts of rinsing liquid are advantageous if little rinsing liquid is available stands or it is very expensive. However, there is a large amount of rinsing liquid available at a negligible price, for example because generally none There is a shortage of water and not drinking water but less or as rinsing liquid if untreated service water is used at all, the use of larger ones can be used Amounts of flushing liquid may be more advantageous, on the one hand because of the hygienic conditions and on the other hand because of the lower concentration of urine in the wastewater, which causes the Bodies of water and possibly also the sewage treatment plants with larger quantities lower intensity.

ua

Taste U wird gedrückt

ub

1 Sekunde Wartezeit

uc

Frage 10: wird Taste U immer noch gedrückt?

ud

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 10 nein' ist: es erfolgt nichts

ue

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 10 ja' ist: es ertönt während 0.5 Sekunden ein Signal

uf

1 Sekunde Wartezeit

ug

Frage 11: wird Taste U immer noch gedrückt?

uh

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 11 nein' ist: es erfolgt die erste Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U1,

ui

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 11 ja' ist: es ertönt während 0.5 Sekunden ein Signal

uk

1 Sekunde Wartezeit

ul

Frage 12: wird Taste U immer noch gedrückt?

um

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 12 nein' ist: es erfolgt die zweite Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U2, nämlich eine Hauptspülung Sh

un

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 12 ja' ist: es ertönt während 0.5 Sekunden ein Signal

uo

1 Sekunde Wartezeit

up

Frage 13: wird Taste U immer noch gedrückt?

uq

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 13 nein' ist: es erfolgt die dritte Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U3.

ur

Wenn Antwort auf Frage 13 ja' ist: es erfolgt keine Funktion

Furthermore, as mentioned, the new service procedure comprises the three pre-settable maintenance cleaning sequences U1, U2, U3. In maintenance cleaning, all variants of the maintenance cleaning sequences U1, U2, U3 are always available, as shown in FIG. 1 . If several diagnostic sequences were provided, all of the diagnostic sequences would also be available for selection. The selection and sequence of the maintenance cleaning are shown in the flow chart according to FIG. 3 . The fields of the flow diagram have the following meaning:

among others

The U key is pressed

ub

1 second waiting time

uc

Question 10: is U still pressed?

ud

If answer to question 10 no 'is: nothing happens

ue

If answer to question 10 yes' is: a signal sounds for 0.5 seconds

uf

1 second waiting time

ug

Question 11: is U still pressed?

uh

If answer to question 11 no 'is: the first maintenance cleaning sequence U1 takes place ,

ui

If answer to question 11 yes' is: a signal sounds for 0.5 seconds

uk

1 second waiting time

ul

Question 12: is U still pressed?

around

If answer to question 12 no 'is: there is the second maintenance cleaning sequence U2, namely a main wash Sh

U.N

If answer to question 12 yes' is: a signal sounds for 0.5 seconds

uo

1 second waiting time

up

Question 13: is U still pressed?

uq

If answer to question 13 no 'is: the third maintenance cleaning sequence U3 takes place .

ur

If answer to question 13 yes' is: there is no function

• eine Spül-Pause von zehn Minuten;
• eine Hauptspülung mit grosser Wassermenge; und
• ein Umschalten auf die angewählte oder anzuwählende Spül-Sequenz des Normalbetriebs.

Diese erste Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U1 ist angezeigt, wenn die Schüssel ziemlich verschmutzt und eine manuelle Reinigung notwendig ist, wobei die Spülpause die ungestörte Durchführung der manuellen Reinigung erlaubt.The first maintenance cleaning sequence U1 comprises the following processes:

• a ten minute pause;
• a main rinse with a large amount of water; and
• a switch to the selected or to be selected rinsing sequence of normal operation.

This first maintenance cleaning sequence U1 is indicated when the bowl is rather dirty and manual cleaning is necessary, the rinsing break allowing the manual cleaning to be carried out undisturbed.

• eine Hauptspülung Sh; und
• ein Umschalten auf die angewählte oder anzuwählende Spül-Sequenz S1 bis S5 des Normalbetriebs.

Diese zweite Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U2 eignet sich für nur leicht verschmutzte Schüsseln.The second maintenance cleaning sequence U2 comprises the following processes:

• a main wash Sh ; and
• a switchover to the selected or to be selected rinsing sequence S1 to S5 of normal operation.

This second maintenance cleaning sequence U2 is suitable for only lightly soiled bowls.

• eine Inaktivierung der Steuerung für eine begrenzte Zeit, zum Beispiel zwei Minuten;
• eine anschliessende Folge mehrerer Spülvorgänge mit kleinen Spülflüssigkeitsmengen, wodurch insbesondere der Geruchsverschluss beziehungsweise Siphon gereinigt wird;
• eine Hauptspülung mit grosser Spülmittelmenge; und
• ein Umschalten auf die angewählte oder anzuwählende Spül-Sequenz des Normalbetriebs.

Diese dritte Unterhaltsreinigungs-Sequenz U3 dient vor allem der Reinigung des stromabwärts an die Schüssel anschliessenden Siphonsystems.The third maintenance cleaning sequence U3 comprises the following processes:

• disabling the controller for a limited time, for example two minutes;
• a subsequent sequence of several rinsing processes with small amounts of rinsing liquid, whereby in particular the odor trap or siphon is cleaned;
• a main wash with a large amount of detergent; and
• a switch to the selected or to be selected rinsing sequence of normal operation.

This third maintenance cleaning sequence U3 mainly serves to clean the siphon system downstream of the bowl.

Both during the rinsing sequences S1 to S5 and during the maintenance cleaning sequences U1 to U3 , additives such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, decalcifying agents or fragrances can be dispensed into the bowl according to FIGS. 2B and 2F , either in a separate step of the service process or at the same time with inflowing rinsing liquid.

In the present exemplary embodiment, as mentioned above, only one diagnostic sequence D1 is provided. It has five diagnosis steps d1, d2, d3, d4, d5 , which run consecutively when the diagnosis sequence D1 is selected . However, it would also be possible to provide several diagnostic sequences or to group the necessary diagnostic steps into several diagnostic sequences, which could then be selected selectively.

da

drücken der Taste D

db

0.5 Sekunden Wartezeit

dc

Frage 20: wird Taste D immer noch gedrückt?

dd

wenn Antwort auf Frage 20 nein' ist: es erfolgt keine Funktion

de

wenn Antwort auf Frage 20 ja' ist: 1 Sekunde Wartezeit

df

Frage 21: wird Taste D immer noch gedrückt?

dg

wenn Antwort auf Frage 21 nein' ist: es läuft die Diagnose-Sequenz D1 ab

dh

wenn Antwort auf Frage 21 ja' ist: es erfolgt keine Funktion

4 shows the selection of the diagnosis sequence D1 in a flow chart. It means:

there

press the D button

db

0.5 seconds waiting time

dc

Question 20: is key D still pressed?

dd

if answer to question 20 no 'is: there is no function

de

if answer to question 20 yes' is: 1 second waiting time

df

Question 21: is key D still pressed?

dg

if answer to question 21 no 'is: the diagnostic sequence D1 runs

ie

if answer to question 21 yes' is: there is no function

• Der erste Diagnose-Schritt d1 liefert als Diagnose-Signal einen Ton. Er betrifft eine Steuereinheit 10.2 einer Steuereinrichtung 10, welche im wesentlichen aus der Bedienungseinheit 10.1 und der Steuereinheit 10.2 besteht, ferner ein Ventil 18 in einer Zufuhr-Leitung 16 der Spülflüssigkeit und einen Sensor 52, 54, welcher den Gebrauch einer Schüssel 13 und das Absinken des Pegelstandes P der Spülflüssigkeit unter den weiter oben erwähnten Grenz-Pegelstand P _min ermittelt. Sind die Steuereinrichtung 10, das genannte Ventil 18 und der Sensor 52, 54 in Ordnung, so ertönt das Diagnose-Signal.
• Der zweite Diagnose-Schritt d2 liefert als Diagnose-Signal zwei Töne. Diese ertönen, wenn die Steuereinheit 10.2 keinen Spülvorgang beziehungsweise keine Zugabe von Spülflüssigkeit zur Schüssel 13 auslösen kann. Die Ursache dieser Störung liegt darin, dass keine Spülflüssigkeit erhältlich ist beziehungsweise im Netz kein Wasserdruck vorhanden ist oder das Ventil 18 verschmutzt oder defekt ist. Die zu ergreifenden Massnahmen sind die Prüfung der Spülflüssigkeitszufuhr, das Reinigen oder Ersetzen des Ventils 18 sowie die Prüfung der Verbindung von Steuereinheit 10.2 und Ventil 18.
• Der dritte Diagnose-Schritt d3 liefert als Diagnose-Signal drei Töne. Diese ertönen, wenn Probleme mit dem Sensor 52, 54 auftreten. Die Ursache dieser Probleme bestehen darin, dass der Sensor 52, 54 verschmutzt oder defekt ist oder dass die Verbindung zwischen Sensor 52, 54 und Steuereinheit 10.2 gestört ist. Die zu ergreifenden Massnahmen sind die Reinigung oder der Ersatz von Sensor 52, 54 und/oder des Geruchsverschlusses beziehungsweise Siphons und die Prüfung der Verbindung der Steuereinheit 10.2 mit dem Sensor 52, 54.
• Der vierte Diagnose-Schrift d4 liefert als Diagnose-Signal vier Signaltöne. Diese ertönen, wenn die Steuereinrichtung 10.2 keinen Spülvorgang auslösen kann, obwohl Spülflüssigkeit zur Verfügung stehen würde und das Ventil 18 in Ordnung ist. Die Ursache dieser Störung liegt darin, dass die Steuereinheit 10.2 defekt ist. Die Massnahme zur Behebung dieser Störung ist der Ersatz der Steuereinheit 10.2.
• Der fünfte Diagnose-Schritt d5 liefert kein Diagnose-Signal. Er informiert darüber, dass die Steuereinrichtung 10 ausser Betrieb ist. Dies beruht entweder auf einer Störung in der Stromzufuhr oder auf einem totalen Ausfall der Steuereinrichtung 10. Die zu treffenden Massnahmen sind die Überprüfung der Stromzufuhr, gegebenenfalls der Hauptsicherung, und eventuell der Ersatz der Steuereinrichtung 10.

The diagnostic steps d1 to d5 are described below with reference to FIG. 4 . The components mentioned here will be discussed in more detail below with reference to FIGS . 5A to 7C . When the diagnosis sequence D1 is carried out, a positive diagnosis result is announced for each diagnosis script d1 to d4 by a corresponding specific diagnosis signal or a negative diagnosis result due to the absence of this diagnosis signal or vice versa.

• The first diagnostic step d1 delivers a tone as the diagnostic signal. It relates to a control unit 10.2 of a control device 10, which essentially consists of the operating unit 10.1 and the control unit 10.2 , a valve 18 in a feed line 16 of the rinsing liquid and a sensor 52, 54 which detects the use of a bowl 13 and the sinking of the level P of the rinsing liquid is determined below the limit level P _min mentioned above. If the control device 10 , the mentioned valve 18 and the sensor 52, 54 are in order, the diagnostic signal sounds.
• The second diagnostic step d2 delivers two tones as the diagnostic signal. These sound when the control unit 10.2 can not trigger a rinsing process or the addition of rinsing liquid to the bowl 13 . The cause of this fault is that no rinsing liquid is available or there is no water pressure in the network or the valve 18 is dirty or defective. The measures to be taken are checking the flushing liquid supply, cleaning or replacing the valve 18 and checking the connection of the control unit 10.2 and valve 18 .
• The third diagnostic step d3 delivers three tones as the diagnostic signal. These sound when problems with the sensor 52, 54 occur. The cause of these problems is that the sensor 52, 54 is dirty or defective or that the connection between the sensor 52, 54 and the control unit 10.2 is disturbed. The measures to be taken are cleaning or replacing sensor 52, 54 and / or the odor trap or siphon and checking the connection of control unit 10.2 with sensor 52, 54 .
• The fourth diagnostic font d4 delivers four signal tones as the diagnostic signal. These sound when the control device 10.2 can not trigger a flushing process, although flushing liquid would be available and the valve 18 is in order. The cause of this fault is that the control unit 10.2 is defective. The measure to remedy this fault is to replace the control unit 10.2.
• The fifth diagnostic step d5 does not deliver a diagnostic signal. It informs that the control device 10 is out of operation. This is based either on a fault in the power supply or on a total failure of the control device 10 . The measures to be taken include checking the power supply, possibly the main fuse, and possibly replacing the control device 10 .

The operating unit 10.1 can also be designed such that it contains only one or two buttons; perform the multiple functions. A design of the operating unit with two keys, namely a key S / D for selecting the washing sequences S1 to S5 and for initiating the diagnostic sequences D1 , and a key U for initiating or selecting the maintenance cleaning sequences has proven effective U1 to U3 . With such an arrangement, the S / D key must be pressed briefly for the diagnostic sequence D1 and long for the preselection of the rinsing sequences S1 to S5 . The flow of the functions would essentially correspond to a flow diagram, not shown, in which the input of the flow diagram of FIG. 2A would be connected to the output of the flow diagram of FIG. 4 .

After the explanation of the feasible steps of the new service method above, the various elements of the control device 10 for carrying out the method, including the possible mounting positions of the control unit 10.2, are described in more detail below.

FIGS. 5A and 5B each show a control unit 10.2 of a control device 10 , which further includes the operating unit 10.1 already shown in FIG. 1 . The control device 10 serves to control a service method that is applied to a sanitary apparatus 12 in the form of a urinal with the bowl 13 . The control unit 10.2 of the control device 10 comprises a plurality of electronic elements and a mounting box in which these electronic elements are accommodated. 5A shows the control unit 10.2 mounted in a first position, namely above the bowl 13 . The control unit 10.2 can be arranged behind a wall or behind a wall covering or behind a cover plate 14 in a recess in the wall. Mounting on the wall would also be possible but less recommended since the control unit 10.2 would be more exposed to vandalism. 5B shows the control unit 10.2 in a second position, namely directly behind the bowl 13 . In this position, the control unit 10.2 is perfectly protected against vandalism, but replacing a defective control unit 10.2 is relatively complex since it can only be carried out when the bowl 13 is removed.

5A and 5B , a detail of the sanitary apparatus 12 is shown below, namely the device for adding an additive such as, for example, a cleaning, disinfecting, decalcifying or scenting agent to the rinsing liquid, which preferably with individual or all rinsing processes of the new one Service procedure can be combined. The flushing liquid is supplied to the bowl 13 in the usual way through a flushing liquid supply line 16 in which a solenoid valve 18 is arranged. An additive supply line 20 opens into the rinsing liquid supply line 16 , preferably in the region close to the bowl, or, as not shown, into the bowl 13 . In the arrangement according to FIG. 5A , the additive supply line 20 also contains a controllable valve 22, which is controlled in such a way that a certain amount of the additive gets into the bowl 13 during certain or all rinsing processes or possibly also outside a rinsing process. In the arrangement according to FIG. 5B , the additive supply line 20 contains no valve; the additive is sucked in by the rinsing liquid from an additive container (not shown) during each rinsing process according to the principle of a water jet pump and thus reaches the region of the rinsing liquid supply line 16 near the bowl. It is also pointed out that the arrangement and design of the control unit on the one hand and the additive adding device on the other hand are independent of one another and not restricted to the design forms shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B .

Conventional control devices of various types can be used to control the new service process. However, the control device 10 according to the invention is particularly suitable, the details of which are shown in FIGS. 6A to 6D and are described below. 6A shows the control unit 10.1 and the operating unit 10.2 of the control device 10 , the operating unit 10.1 shown here only having two keys, namely a first, combined S / D key for the rinsing sequences S1 to S4 and the diagnosis sequence D1 and one has second key U for the maintenance cleaning sequences U1 to U3 . This control unit 10.1 was designed so that it is easy to operate thanks to the small number of only two buttons S / D and U ; for this purpose it is further advantageous if the keys S / D and U have different colors and / or shapes and / or are labeled with symbols or pictograms. Command signals K go from operating unit 10.1 to control unit 10.2 and acknowledgment signals Q go from control unit 10.2 to operating unit 10.1 ; these signals could be electronic, electromagnetic, optical or acoustic; however, devices with optical signals cannot be manufactured to be vandal-proof. The operating unit 10.1 can have a display 24 for the optical display of received electronic signals. Instead of a bidirectional signal transmission, only a unidirectional signal transmission from the operating unit 10.1 to the control unit 10.2 can be provided; for this reason, the line representing the command signals K is drawn in FIG. 6A , while the line representing the acknowledgment signals Q is only dashed. The control device 10 works in such a way that the pulse-width-modulated electromagnetic waves of the low frequency range are transmitted by means of a ferrite rod by the transmitter, that is to say the operating unit 10.1 , and are received and evaluated on the receiver side, that is to say in the control unit, by means of a further ferrite rod. The shape of these directional command signals K is that of a lobe 30 , as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C . The length of this naturally non-material lobe 30 is preferably in the range of approximately one meter and its width is in the range of approximately half a meter. The dimensions of the lobe 30 are such that only one control unit 10.2 is addressed with the operating unit 10.1 , as can be seen from FIG. 6C , where the control units 20.2 mounted behind a wall 40 are arranged in a completely vandal-proof manner and yet by the operating unit 10.1 emitted command signals K can be reached individually.

As already mentioned, this single operating unit 10.1 serves not only for the cleaning staff to control the maintenance cleaning sequences U1 to U3 and the diagnosis sequence D1 , but also for the specialists for presetting or programming all service sequences and in particular for selecting the suitable rinsing sequence S1, S2, S3, S4 or S5 .

In order to prevent the selection of the rinsing sequence from being changed accidentally or maliciously, the control unit 10.2 is designed in such a way that it can only be reprogrammed within a certain programming period, for example 30 minutes after the start of the power supply. Although this has the consequence that the power supply must be interrupted before an intended reprogramming, but this means only a minimal disadvantage, since reprogramming is generally not carried out.

The control unit 10.2 preferably also has a digital interface that is normally not used. This serves to preset or overload service sequences tailored to special needs. Via the same interface, variables determined by the control unit 10.2, such as the number of rinses carried out, can also be transmitted to a computer unit, where they can then be statistically evaluated. For this purpose and also for programming purposes, the control devices 10.2 can also be connected to a bus 26 , as shown in FIG. 6D ; this would have the advantage that several flushes can be carried out at different times despite simultaneous use, for example if the pressure of the flushing liquid and / or the cross section of the flushing liquid supply line is small.

7A, 7B and 7C show an odor trap or siphon 50 , which is arranged downstream of a bowl, not shown, of a sanitary appliance. This odor trap or siphon 50 serves to produce an odor barrier between the bowl (not shown) and the room in which it is mounted on the one hand and the sewer system on the other. The odor barrier comes about because the odor trap or siphon 50 is completely filled with rinsing liquid in at least one cross section 51 , which to a certain extent forms a plug. So that this plug is retained, the level P of the rinsing liquid must not drop below a limit level P _min . In order to prevent this, a sensor 52 or 54 is arranged in the odor trap or siphon 50 , which monitors the level P , determines the drop in the level P below the limit level P _min and then emits a signal to cause rinsing liquid in the bowl is refilled. The sensor 52 or 54 can be arranged before or after the cross section 51 of the odor barrier. With simple sanitary appliances, forced flushing can be initiated at certain intervals. However, this means an unnecessary consumption of rinsing liquid; in order to maintain or regain the odor barrier, only a minimal amount of rinsing liquid is required. For this reason, the arrangement of such an odor trap 50 with a sensor 52 or 54 is particularly advantageous for sanitary appliances in which, as part of a service process, the delivery of a minimal amount of rinsing liquid is provided, which is just sufficient for a temporally and locally to ensure almost uninterrupted odor control. Suitable sensors are both media sensors 52 , for example optical sensors, capacitive sensors, inductive sensors, ultrasound sensors, conductivity sensors or mechanical-hydraulic sensors such as floats, and distance sensors 54 , which according to FIG. 3A , 3B and 3C . The sensors 52 and 54 , which serve to ensure the maintenance of the odor barrier, are preferably the same sensors that also initiate the use-induced rinsing processes.

Claims (22)

Service procedure for a liquid-flushable sanitary apparatus ( 12 ),
characterized, that a pre-setting of several differently running service sequences ( S1 , S2, S3, S4, S5, U1, U2, U3, D1 ) is carried out, that at least one service sequence is selected from the service sequences, and that the selected at least one service sequence runs according to its default setting. Service method according to claim 1,
characterized, that the service sequences comprise at least one rinsing sequence ( S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 ). Service method according to at least one of the above claims,
characterized, that the service sequences comprise at least one maintenance cleaning sequence ( U1, U2, U3 ). Service method according to at least one of the above claims,
characterized, that the service sequences comprise at least one diagnosis sequence ( D1 ). Service method according to claim 2 ,
characterized, that the rinsing sequences ( S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 ) comprise a number of rinsing processes ( sv, sk, sh, smin ) which are caused by the use of the sanitary apparatus ( 12 ) and / or after a predetermined time interval since the previous rinsing process ( sv, sk, sh, smin ) and / or if the water level falls below a limit ( Pmin ) in the odor trap of the sanitary apparatus ( 12 ). Service method according to claim 3 ,
characterized, that the maintenance cleaning sequences ( U1, U2, U3 ) include rinsing breaks and rinsing sequences. Service method according to at least one of claims 5 to 6 ,
characterized, that the rinsing sequences comprise rinsing processes with different amounts of rinsing liquid. Service method according to at least one of the above claims,
characterized, that it comprises an additive process, preferably coupled with a rinsing process ( sv, sk, sh, smin ), for adding an additive to a bowl ( 13 ) of the sanitary apparatus ( 12 ), the additive being, for example, a cleaning, disinfecting, Descaling or fragrance is. Control device ( 10 ) for controlling a method, in particular a service method for at least one liquid-flushable sanitary apparatus ( 12 ), with a control unit ( 10.2 ) mounted in the area of the at least one sanitary apparatus and an operating device for free-space transmission of command signals ( K ) to the at least one control unit ( 10.2 ),
characterized, that the operating device is formed by an operating unit ( 10.1 ). Control device ( 10 ) according to claim 9 ,
characterized, that the control unit ( 10.2 ) is designed to transmit and the operating unit ( 10.1 ) to receive acknowledgment signals ( Q ). Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 10 ,
characterized, that the operating unit ( 10.1 ) and / or the control unit ( 10.2 ) comprise a device for the acoustic display of command signals ( K ) or acknowledgment signals ( Q ). Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 11 ,
characterized, that the operating unit ( 10.1 ) has a display ( 24 ) to visually indicate transmitted command signals ( K ) and / or received acknowledgment signals ( Q ). Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 12 ,
characterized, that the operating unit ( 10.1 ) and the control unit ( 10.2 ) are designed to transmit or receive the command signals ( K ), which can be transmitted without visual contact by means of electromagnetic waves, and possibly the acknowledgment signals ( Q ), in order to close the at least one control unit ( 10.2 ) in a vandal-proof position assemble. Control device ( 10 ) according to claim 13 ,
characterized, that the operating unit ( 10.1 ) has a ferrite rod, which is designed to emit the electromagnetic waves with a shape of propagation in the form of a lobe ( 30 ), which is dimensioned such that, when the operating unit ( 10.1 ) is in a suitable position, it is outside the reception range of the at least a control unit ( 10.2 ) adjacent, further control units. Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 14 , characterized in that that the control unit ( 10.1 ) has at least one button ( S, U, D, S / D ) for selecting one of several preset rinsing sequences ( S1, S2, S3, S4, S4 ), for initiating maintenance cleaning and for selecting one of has several preset maintenance cleaning sequences ( U1, U2, U3 ) and for initiating a diagnosis and for selecting a diagnosis sequence ( D1 ). Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 15 ,
characterized, that it has a time switching device to limit the selection of one of several preset rinsing sequences ( S1, S2, S3, S4, S5 ) to a time interval after connecting the control device ( 10 ) to the network. Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 16 ,
characterized, that the control unit ( 10 ) has an interface via which a computer unit can be connected in order to overload special programs and / or to process variables determined by the control unit, such as numbers and types of rinsing sequences, for statistical purposes. Control device ( 10 ) according to at least one of Claims 9 to 17 ,
characterized, that the control unit ( 10.2 ) and further control units are connected via a bus ( 26 ). Device for maintaining an odor barrier in an odor trap of a sanitary apparatus,
characterized, that it has a sensor ( 52, 54 ) to determine the drop in the level ( P ) of the rinsing liquid in the odor trap below a limit level ( P _min ), below which limit level ( Pmin ) the odor barrier is removed, and to emit a signal to initiate the supply of a sufficient amount of rinsing liquid to raise the level ( P ) at least up to the limit level ( P _min ). Device according to claim 19 ,
characterized, that the sensor is a media sensor ( 52 ) or a distance sensor ( 54 ). Device according to at least one of claims 19 to 20 ,
characterized, that the sensor ( 52, 54 ) is arranged before or after the cross section ( 51 ) of the odor barrier. Device according to at least one of claims 19 to 21 ,
characterized, that the sensor ( 52, 54 ) is also designed to initiate use-induced flushing processes of the sanitary apparatus.

Images