DK2672030T3

DK2672030T3 - Activation device for a drain valve in a rinse tank

Info

Publication number: DK2672030T3
Application number: DK12171302.8T
Authority: DK
Inventors: Reto Lienin; Harald Eisen
Original assignee: Geberit Int Ag
Priority date: 2012-06-08
Filing date: 2012-06-08
Publication date: 2018-02-05
Also published as: EP2672030A1; EP2672030B1

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an actuating device for a drain valve of a sanitary bathroom cistern according to the preamble to Claim 1.

PRIOR ART

Actuating devices for drain valves of sanitary bathroom cisterns are known from the prior art. For example, EP 1 491 690 discloses a suchlike actuating device.

The actuating device according to EP 1 491 690 exhibits a frame intended to be mounted in an opening in a wall, wherein a covering plate is connected to the frame and extends completely over the frame and the opening. The buttons that are capable of actuation by the user are then mounted in the covering plate. The buttons act, upon activation, on an actuator element, for example on a push rod or a pneumatic actuator, with which the flush in the cistern can then be released. The actuating plate disclosed in EP 1 491 690 has a disadvantage in operation, in that the user, upon actuation, does not receive a clear haptic feedback signal when he wishes to release the flush. The user is left in the dark by his actuation involving the effect of a force on the button, until the button has reached the rearmost abutment or until the user perceives the noise of the flush.

Various actuating devices for sanitary bathroom cisterns are disclosed in EP 2 388 379, which represents the closest prior art, in DE 20 2006 013850 and in DE 86 17 785. What is more, these actuating devices exhibit the same disadvantages as the actuating device already described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Based on this prior art, it is one object of the invention to provide an actuating device of the kind mentioned by way of introduction, which can be operated more ergonomically by the user. One particular object of the invention is that the reliable operation is indicated to the user.

This object is accomplished by an actuating device according to Claim 1. Accordingly, an actuating device for a drain valve for a sanitary bathroom cistern comprises a mounting frame, an actuating button and at least one actuator element for actuation of the drain valve in the sanitary bathroom cistern, which actuator element is capable of actuation with the actuating button. The actuating button is configured so as to be capable of being displaced, in particular of being pivoted, from an initial position into an end position in relation to the mounting frame upon the flush release. The actuating device comprises at least one pressure point element, which, with a press on the actuating button from the initial position in the direction of the end position, offers a resistance that is perceivable by the user, wherein said resistance is overcome as the actuating force increases.

The pressure point element is a mechanical pressure point element. The mechanical pressure point element in this case is provided by mechanical elements on the actuating device itself. A pressure point element that is particularly advantageous and, above all, capable of being precisely dimensioned, can be created as a result.

The pressure point element is preferably disposed between the mounting frame and the actuating button.

The pressure point element comprises a first latching element and a second latching element corresponding with the first latching element. The two latching elements are arranged on two elements of the actuating device that are capable of displacement towards one another, with the result that the two latching elements are capable, upon actuation, of displacement relative to one another. A pressure point element that is particularly easy to manufacture can be made available with the latching elements.

By the arrangement of this pressure point element, the user is provided with an actuating device which has the advantage that the user obtains a haptic feedback signal upon actuation. As a result, the actuation is more ergonomic and the correct actuation is signalled to the user.

The two latching elements are cams and are in contact with one another in the initial position, so that the pressure point is already perceivable during a movement from the initial position.

The first latching element is preferably disposed on the mounting frame, and the second latching element is disposed on the actuating button.

As an alternative, the first latching element is disposed on a further element of the actuating device, and the second latching element is arranged on the actuating button or on the mounting frame, wherein the further element is configured so as to be capable of being displaced in relation to the actuating button or to the mounting frame. The further element is preferably disposed between the mounting frame and the actuating button.

Most preferably, the further element is an actuating lever, which is capable of being actuated with the actuating button and acts on the actuator element. This actuating lever thus lies between the mounting frame and the actuating button.

The first latching element and/or the second latching element are preferably in connection with a spring element. As a result, the resistance of the pressure point can be dimensioned particularly easily by means of the spring element. The first latching element and/or the second latching element can also be configured as rigid elements, however.

The mounting frame preferably defines a plane, wherein the actuating button is capable of being caused to pivot in relation to said plane about an axis, which runs parallel to the plane, wherein the actuating button is capable of being caused to pivot in relation to said at least one axis in at least one direction of pivoting about the axis, wherein at least one pressure point element, and preferably two pressure point elements, are present per direction of pivoting.

Preferably at least one restoring element is disposed between the mounting frame of the actuating button. The restoring element provides a restoring force on the actuating button, so that the actuating button is displaced into the initial position, wherein the restoring element acts on the actuating button, preferably via the actuating lever.

Most preferably, the actuating device is a pneumatic pressure transducer, which provides a pressure impulse for a flush valve of the flushing device. The arrangement of the pressure point element is particularly advantageous, especially in conjunction with a pneumatic pressure transducer, because pneumatic pressure transducers conventionally do not themselves provide any perceivable pressure point.

The mounting frame and the actuating button are preferably in connection with one another via at least one bearing point, wherein in particular respectively two bearing points per axis are disposed at a distance from one another.

Said bearing point comprises preferably one receiving element and preferably one bearing element, wherein the bearing element is configured so as to be capable of being suspended in the receiving element. In one embodiment, the bearing element is resiliently configured with a spring, and in another embodiment, the bearing element is rigidly configured. One bearing element is configured with a spring and the other bearing element is rigidly configured, preferably per axis in each case.

The bearing element is preferably a bearing pin, wherein the bearing pin is capable of being suspended in the corresponding receiver or in the frame element.

The bearing points on the mounting frame preferably exhibit the form of receivers, and the bearing points on the actuating button preferably exhibit the form of bearing pins, wherein the bearing pins project into the receivers. As an alternative or in addition, the bearing points on the actuating button exhibit the form of receivers, and the bearing points on the mounting frame exhibit the form of bearing pins, wherein the bearing pins project into the receivers.

Preferably two bearing points, which define a single axis, are present. As an alternative, four bearing points, which define two axes, are present.

At least one restoring element is preferably arranged between the mounting frame of the actuating button, wherein the restoring element provides a restoring force on the actuating button, so that the actuating button is displaced into the bearing point or the receiver. Most preferably a plurality of restoring elements are arranged, so that the actuating button lies parallel to the mounting frame.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the actuating button is capable of being caused to pivot about precisely one axis, which is positioned centrally in relation to the actuating button, wherein reference may be made here to a rocking movement. In a further preferred embodiment, the actuating button is capable of being caused to pivot about precisely two axes that are disposed at a distance from one another. As a result, two actuator elements can be actuated in both embodiments, so that a partial-quantity flush can be released.

The actuating device preferably comprises precisely a single actuating button. Most preferably, the actuating button is configured as a flat plate. The flat plate is preferably configured in a single piece.

Further embodiments are proposed in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below on the basis of the drawings, which serve only to provide an explanation and must not be interpreted in a restrictive way. In the drawings:

Fig. 1 depicts a front view of an actuating device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 depicts a side view of the actuating device according to Figure 1;

Fig. 3 depicts a perspective view of a mounting frame for receiving an actuating button with a part of the pressure point element according to a first embodiment;

Fig. 4 depicts a perspective view of an actuating button for connection to the mounting frame according to Fig. 3 with a part of the pressure point element;

Figs. 5a to c depict sectional views through the device according to Figures 1 to 4 in the region of the pressure point element in three different positions;

Fig. 6 depicts a perspective view of a mounting frame intended to receive an actuating button having a pressure point element according to a second embodiment;

Fig. 7 depicts a detailed view of Fig. 6; and

Figs. 8a to c depict sectional views through the device according to Figures 1,2 and 4, as well as 6 and 7, in the region of the pressure point element in three different positions.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

An actuating device 1 for a drain valve of a sanitary bathroom cistern is depicted in a view from above in Figure 1. The actuating device 1 comprises or contains substantially a mounting frame 2, which is not visible in Figure 1, an actuating button 3 and at least one actuator element 4, which is not visible here in Figure 1. The actuator element 4 in this case is capable of actuation with the actuating button 3 and in the process acts on the flush release in a sanitary bathroom cistern of a toilet or a urinal. The flush can thus be released via the actuator element 4.

In the embodiment according to Figure 1, the actuating button 3 comprises substantially two regions, these being a left-hand region 5 and a right-hand region 6. These two regions 5, 6 are separated by a visualized dividing line 7. A press exerted by the user on the left-hand region 5, which is depicted as being larger here, in the process releases a full-quantity flush, whereas a press exerted on the right-hand region 6 releases a corresponding partial-quantity flush. Two actuator elements 4 are arranged for this purpose. The left-hand and the right-hand regions can also be transposed accordingly.

The actuating button 3 is preferably configured as a flat plate with a front surface 11 and a rear surface 22. The actuating button 3 is most preferably designed substantially in a single piece. The actuating button 3 can also be supported in an actuating plate, however, wherein preferably two actuating buttons 3 are then supported in a single actuating plate.

The actuating device 1 preferably comprises precisely a single actuating button 3. A particularly simple design of the actuating device can thus be made available with the possibility of releasing a partial-quantity flush.

It can be clearly appreciated from Figure 2, which depicts the actuating device 1 in a side view, that a particularly preferred design of the actuating button 3 is connected directly and immediately in this case to the mounting frame 2 or is supported directly and immediately on the mounting frame 2. The expressions direct and immediate connection or support are understood to denote that the actuating button 3 is connected directly to the mounting frame 2 without further elements, such as a frame or a covering plate. It is consequently also possible to state that the actuating button 3 depicted here is designed without a frame or without a covering plate. This embodiment is advantageous, since intricate positioning between the actuating button 3 and the actuator element 4 does not apply, because the actuating button 3 is able to act with the whole of its rear surface 22 on the actuator element 4.

The actuating button 3 is configured so as to be capable of being displaced, in particular of being caused to pivot, from an initial position into an end position in relation to the mounting frame 2 in conjunction with flush release. Consequently, the actuating button 3 can thus be displaced, upon actuation, from the initial position towards the mounting frame 2 into the end position. On completion of flushing, the actuating button 3 is then displaced away from the mounting frame 2, that is to say from the end position into the initial position.

The mounting frame 2 is typically recessed into an opening in masonry and is connected to elements of the sanitary bathroom cistern. The wall opening 8 is indicated symbolically in Figure 2. The wall opening 8 extends from one wall 9 into said wall 9. The wall 9 in this case is set back in relation to the actuating button 3, so that the actuating button 3 is capable of displacement in relation to the wall 9. In other words, it is also possible to state that the actuating button, upon release of the flush, is displaced from the initial position in the direction of the wall 9 into the end position. The displacement is indicated by the arrow B.

With reference to Figure 1, it can be clearly appreciated that the actuating button 3, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the actuating button 3, is larger than the mounting frame and also larger than the wall opening 8 in the wall 9. The mounting frame 2 and the wall opening is thus covered substantially completely by the actuating button 3 in a direction perpendicular to the surface 11 of the actuating button 3, as is clearly discernible in Figure 1. The complete covering in this case has the advantage that the user does not see the mounting frame 2 or parts of the wall opening 8, with the actuating device 1 installed, but only perceives the surface of the actuating button 3, as depicted accordingly in Figure 1. In addition, the design as a flat actuating button 3 is visually highly appealing, because the user perceives only a single element during use. A suchlike actuating button 3 is also easier to clean.

It can also be clearly appreciated from Figure 2 that the actuating button 3 exhibits a greater extent than the mounting frame 2.

The mounting frame 2 or the wall 9 define a plane 10. The plane 10 in this case runs substantially parallel to the wall 9 and can be defined by corresponding elements of the mounting frame 2. For example, a peripheral flange 26 of the mounting frame, as can be appreciated in Figures 2 and 4, provides the said plane 10.

The mounting frame 2 according to Figure 3 substantially comprises an interior space 27, which is delimited by a rear wall 28 and peripheral side walls 29. The side walls 29 are then adjoined by a peripheral flange 26. The rear wall 28 further comprises at least one opening 30, through which elements can be introduced in the direction of the sanitary bathroom cistern.

The actuating button 3 is preferably capable of pivoting about at least one axis A1, A2, A3. Substantially two different embodiments are conceivable in this case. In a first embodiment, the actuating button 3 is pivoted about precisely one axis A1. The axis A1 in this case runs preferably centrally through the actuating button 3. In a second embodiment, the actuating button 3 is pivoted about two axes A2, A3 that are disposed at a distance from one another.

All three axes A1, A2, A3 are marked in Figure 1. In the first embodiment, the actuating button 3 is caused to pivot about the axis A1 towards the plane E by a press exerted on the left-hand region 5 and the right-hand region 6. The movement in this case is a kind of rocking movement. In the second embodiment, the actuating button 3 is caused to pivot about the axis A2 towards the plane E with a press exerted on the right-hand region 6. The actuating button 3 is caused to pivot about the axis A3 in relation to the plane E with a press exerted on the left-hand region 5.

In the event of an actuation, the actuating button 3 with the surface 11 thus lies at an angle to the plane E. With regard to Figure 1, it can also be stated that the actuating button 3 is caused to pivot about the respective axis A1 or A2 or A3 at an angle to the plane of the page. The plane of the page according to Figure 1 in this case corresponds substantially with the plane 10, which is defined by the mounting frame 2 or the wall 9.

The axes A1, A2, A3 in this case can run both in the horizontal plane or in the vertical plane. It is also conceivable for the axes A1, A2, A3 to run at an angle or inclined in relation to the horizontal plane or the vertical plane. The dividing line 7 is then printed correspondingly in a different position, in order to signal the direction of actuation to the user. The dividing line 7 in this case runs preferably parallel to the axes A1, A2, A3.

The actuating button 3 is depicted in a perspective view from behind in Figure 4, wherein the rear surface 22 is clearly visible. The actuating button 3 depicted in Figure 4 is suitable for use in all the possible embodiments described herein.

The actuating device further comprises at least one pressure point element 36. The pressure point element 36, with a press exerted on the actuating button 3 from the initial position in the direction of the end position, provides a resistance that is perceivable by the user. The user thus feels a haptic feedback signal in the course of actuation. This resistance that is provided by the pressure point element 36 is overcome as the actuating force increases. In other words, it can also be stated that, at the start of the actuation, a rather higher force must be applied in order to overcome the pressure point, and that the force once more becomes rather lower after overcoming the pressure point.

The pressure point element 36 is a mechanical pressure point element 36. This means that the pressure point element 36 is provided by mechanical components, such as latching elements and the like.

It can be clearly appreciated from Figures 3 and 4 that the pressure point element 36 is disposed between the mounting frame 2 and the actuating button 3. The pressure point element 36 is preferably located in the region of the interior space 27 of the mounting frame 2.

The pressure point element 36 comprises a first latching element 37 and a second latching element 38 corresponding with the first latching element 37. Both latching elements 37, 38 are configured as physical latching elements in this case.

The two latching elements 37, 38 in the rest position are in direct contact with one another and are then displaced upon actuation. The two latching elements 37, 38 in this case are disposed on two elements of the actuating device 1 that are capable of displacement towards one another, with the result that the two latching elements are then displaced relative to one another upon actuation of the actuating device 1. The direct contact in the rest position has the advantage that the user already feels the pressure point at the start of the actuation.

In a possible embodiment, which is not depicted in the figures, the first latching element 37 is disposed on the mounting frame 2, and the second latching element 38 is disposed on the actuating button 3. In the event of actuation, the actuating button 3 in this case is displaced relative to the mounting frame 2, and the two latching elements 37, 38 are consequently also displaced relative to one another. A first embodiment of a pressure point element 36 is depicted in Figures 3 and 4. In this case, the second latching element 38 is disposed on the actuating button 3. The first latching element 37 is disposed on a further element 19 belonging to the actuating device 1. In this first embodiment, the first latching element 37 is disposed on an actuating lever 19. The actuating lever 19 is capable of actuation with the actuating button 3 and acts on the actuator element 4.

The first latching element 37 in this case exhibits the form of a cam, which extends from the actuating lever 19. The second latching element 38 in this case is likewise configured as a cam, which extends from the surface 22 of the actuating button 3. In this case, the second latching element 38 is moulded onto a frame 23 in contact with the surface 22.

The functionality of the pressure point element 36 according to the first embodiment is now depicted on the basis of Figures 5a to 5c, which depict a sectional representation through the corresponding pressure point element.

It can be clearly appreciated from Figure 5a that the first latching element 37, which in this case is moulded onto the actuating lever 19, is in contact with the second latching element 38, which in this case is moulded onto the actuating button 3. The two latching elements 37, 38 are thus adjacent to one another in the initial position or are in contact with one another. As a result of this contact, the user feels a haptically perceivable resistance upon actuation of the actuating button, that is to say the pressure point of the pressure point element 36.

Upon actuation, the actuating button 3 is displaced in the direction of the mounting frame 2 and the actuating lever 19. This actuation is represented by the arrow B. The two latching elements 37, 38 are displaced during actuation, so that the one latching element 37 is displaced by the other latching element 38. The resistance provided by the pressure point element 36 has already been overcome at this point, and the user can apply a lower force from then onwards. In other words, it can also be stated that the result is the snap engagement of the two latching elements 37, 38 over one another.

This overcoming of the pressure point has the advantage for the user that, upon actuation, a corresponding feedback signal is provided, which makes the actuation considerably more ergonomic.

The situation of the pressure point element 36 or the actuating button 3 is then depicted in the final position in Figure 5c. It can be clearly appreciated in this case that the first latching element 37 is now situated to the right of the second latching element 38, and consequently the two latching elements 37, 38 have been displaced over one another.

The pressure point of the pressure point element 36 must be overcome once more in conjunction with movement from the end position into the initial position, wherein this overcoming takes place by means of a suitable restoring element 18. A suchlike restoring element 18 is explained below.

In the first embodiment, the two latching elements 37, 38 are configured substantially as rigid latching elements. The snap engagement in this case is facilitated substantially by the pivoting movement of the actuating lever 19. A second embodiment of a pressure point element 36 is depicted in Figures 6 and 7. The mounting frame 2, except for the pressure point elements, is substantially identical to the mounting frame according to the preceding figures. The actuating button 3 according to Figure 4 can also be used, wherein the disposal of the latching elements on the actuating button 3 is preferably omitted in this case.

In this second embodiment, the second latching element 38 is moulded onto the mounting frame 2, and the first latching element 37 is again part of the actuating lever 19, wherein the first latching element 37 is configured in a manner different to that of the first embodiment.

The first latching element 37 is substantially a cam, which is moulded onto the actuating lever 19. In this case, the cam is provided by a web element, which projects from the actuating lever 19 in the direction of the mounting frame 2.

The second latching element 38 is moulded onto the mounting frame 2 and protrudes therefrom into the interior space 27. In the present embodiment, the second latching element 38 is connected to the mounting frame 2 by means of a spring element 39. The spring element 39 in this case is moulded onto the mounting frame 2. The spring element 39 here is connected to the rear wall 28 and runs at an angle with respect to said rear wall 28.

Like the pressure point element 36 of the first embodiment, the pressure point element 36 of the second embodiment occupies the initial position in such a way that the two latching elements 37, 38 are in contact with one another in the initial position.

Depicted in Figures 8a to 8c is a sectional representation through the pressure point element 36 according to the second embodiment, wherein the function of the pressure point element 36 can be readily appreciated.

In the initial position, as depicted in Figure 8a, the two latching elements 37, 38 are in contact with one another. Upon application of an actuating force in the direction of the arrow B, the user will feel the pressure point, that is to say the contact between the two latching elements 37, 38. As the actuating force is increased, the second latching element 38 or the spring element 29 is then pushed away by the first latching element 37, so that the said pressure point connection is overcome. The movement of the second latching element 38 is indicated by the arrow X. This overcoming of the pressure point connection can be clearly appreciated in Figure 8b. The actuating button 3 is depicted in its end position in Figure 8c.

With regard to the spring element 39, it can also be stated that the spring element 39 could also be disposed on the actuating button 3 in another embodiment.

With regard to all the embodiments of the pressure point element 36, a plurality of pressure point elements 36 disposed at a distance from one another are preferably present. Most preferably four pressure point elements 36 are disposed at a distance from one another, wherein these are preferably distributed symmetrically in relation to the mounting frame 2. A preferred arrangement of the pressure point element 36 can also be described as follows. The said actuating button 3 is capable of being caused to pivot about the axis A1, A2, A3 in at least one direction of pivoting in relation to the said at least one axis A1, A2, A3. The actuating button 3 is capable of being caused to pivot both in the clockwise direction and in the anticlockwise direction with regard to the axis A1. At least one, and preferably two, pressure point element(s) 36 are present for each direction of pivoting. In the event that two pressure point elements 36 are present, these are preferably disposed at a distance from one another.

In both embodiments, therefore, respectively two pressure point elements 36 and thus also respectively two pairs of latching elements 36, 37 are present for the left side 5 and also for the right side 6.

In summary, it can be established in respect of the pressure point element 36 that the arrangement of the pressure point element 36 exhibits a number of advantages. On the one hand, the user is provided with a defined pressure point, which makes advantageous and, in particular, ergonomic operation possible for the user. On the other hand, the pressure point element 36 acts as an abutment element, which holds the actuating button 3 in the initial position without the influence of an actuating force in respect of a movement from the initial position into the end position. In addition, the pressure point element 36 permits the actuating button 3 to be supported on the mounting frame 2 in the absence of free play. The latter especially is an advantage when supporting the actuating button 3, as depicted in the figures.

Further characterizing features of the actuating button 3 and the mounting frame 2 depicted here are now explained below. The characterizing features in this case are those of the particularly preferred embodiment, and it should be noted that the pressure point element 36 can also be disposed on other actuating buttons 3 and mounting frames 2.

It can be ascertained from Figures 3, 4 as well as 6 and 7 that the mounting frame 2 and the actuating button 3 are capable of being connected to one another via bearing points 12, and subsequently remain connected to one another via these bearing points 12. Two bearing points 12 are present in this case, wherein the actuating button 3 are supported directly on the mounting frame 2 via these two bearing points 12. In other words, it can also be stated that preferably two bearing points 12 are present per axis A1.

The bearing point 12 preferably comprises a bearing element 14, 31 and a receiving element 13. The bearing element 14, 31 in this case is configured so as to be capable of being suspended in the receiving element 13. In the suspended

State, the bearing element 14, 31 engages or projects into the receiving element 13, with the result that the connection is provided between the bearing element 14, 31 and the receiving element 13. For this engagement, the bearing element 14, 31 and the receiving element 13 are configured so as to be at least partially matching or complementary to one another.

The bearing element 14 in this case can be resiliently configured with a spring 17, like the upper bearing element 14 in Figure 3, or the bearing element 14 can be configured as a rigid bearing element 31, like the lower bearing element 31.

The bearing element 14, 31 is preferably a pin 14, 31, wherein mention may be made of a resilient bearing pin 14 in the event of the presence of the spring 17, and of a rigid bearing pin 31. The actuating button 3 can be suspended easily in the receivers 13 by means of the spring.

The suspension of the actuating button 3 on the mounting frame 2 is now explained below. In this context, in a first step, the bearing pin 14 is pressed into the corresponding receiver 13, and the spring 17 is compressed accordingly. In this case, the actuating button 3 can be caused to pivot in the direction of the mounting frame 2 and can also be positioned in relation to the corresponding receiver 13. If the user then releases the actuating button 3, the spring 17 is relaxed and the rigid bearing pin 31 engages automatically into the corresponding receiver 13 and is supported in these receivers. The installer is thus able to suspend the actuating button 3 very easily on the mounting frame.

In the present embodiment, the bearing point 12 on the mounting frame 2 exhibits the form of receivers 13, and the bearing point 12 on the actuating button 3 exhibits the form of bearing points 14, 31. The bearing pins 14 in this case project into the receivers 13 and are supported there accordingly by the receivers 13. In alternative embodiments, the bearing point 12 on the actuating button 3 can exhibit the form of receivers 13, however, and the bearing point 12 on the mounting frame 2 is then configured as bearing pins 14, 31.

The bearing pin 14 extends along an axis M. Similarly, sections of the receivers 13 also extend along a corresponding axis M. The axes M in this case run parallel to said plane 10. The actuating button 3 in this case is capable of being caused to pivot about this axis M. The axis M in this case substantially becomes the axis A1, as already explained above.

Depending on the material, the bearing pins 14 are moulded directly onto the actuating button 3. The actuating button 3 can be injection-moulded, for example, from a plastic. As an alternative, for example if the actuating button 3 is made of glass or a material other than plastic, the bearing pins 14 can be part of a frame 23. The frame 23 is connected to the actuating button 3 via the rear surface 22 of the actuating button 3. The actuating button 3 in such an embodiment consists essentially of two parts, these being the actuating button 3 itself and the frame 23 joined to the actuating button 3 in a materially integral manner. The frame 23 is preferably glued to the rear surface 22, with the result that a materially integral bond can be produced between the frame 23 and the actuating button 3. Although the actuating button 3 here is connected to the mounting frame 2 via the frame 23, it can nevertheless be stated that the actuating button 3 is directly in connection with the mounting frame 2, because the actuating button 3 and the frame 23 must be regarded as being executed as a single piece due to the aforementioned materially integral bond. A bearing point 12 preferably consists of a pairing comprising a bearing pin 14, 31 and a receiver 13. The pairings in this case are disposed at a distance from one another. Two pairings in each case are disposed on a common central axis M, wherein the two bearing pins 14 and the two receivers 13 run in a collinear fashion.

It can be appreciated from Figures 3 and 6 that the receiver 13 is configured as a channel 15, in this case as an open channel 15, with regard to the direction of movement of the actuating button 3 from the initial position into the flushing position. The channel 15, when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the plane 10, is thus of open configuration from the actuating button 3 in the direction of the mounting frame 2. The bearing pin 14 is consequently capable of displacement in the direction of movement with regard to the fixed receiver 13. Upon actuation of the actuating button 3, the bearing pin 14 can be displaced through this open channel 15.

The channel 15 in this case is of closed configuration towards the actuating button 3, wherein the channel 15 exhibits a wall 16 for this purpose. The wall 16 provides an abutment for the bearing pin 14. The abutment thus ensures that the actuating button 3 is incapable of displacement from the initial position contrary to the usual displacement into the flushing position.

The wall 16 substantially exhibits an abutment section 24, from which two wall sections 25 extend. The two wall sections 25 then run preferably parallel or at an angle or inclined to one another. In the latter case, the cross section of the open channel 15 increases in the direction from the initial position into the flushing position.

The angular configuration in this case has the advantage that the ability of the actuating button 3 to pivot is facilitated thereby.

Upon actuation on the left-hand region 5 or the right-hand region 6 of the actuating button 3, the actuating button 3 pivots about the axis A1. The pressure point of the pressure point element 36 must also be overcome at the same time as the actuation button 3 is actuated.

During this actuation, the bearing elements 14, 31 preferably remain in the corresponding receiver 13. However, the application of a great deal of force can lead to a movement in the direction of the channel 15 of the receiver 13, which has the advantage that undesired forces can be compensated for as a result. The pressure point elements 36 on the side, which are not subjected to the actuation force, are able, in the event of a displacement, to serve at the same time as elements for a rotation about the axes A2 or A3. In other words, it can also be stated that the pressure point elements 36 are able to provide a corresponding axis of rotation.

The movement of the actuating button 3 can be assisted by being guided via guide elements 33 which project into guide openings 34. The guide elements 33 are spikes 33 protruding from the actuating button 3, which spikes project into the guide openings 34 in the mounting frame 2. Guide elements 33 and guide openings 34 can also be seen in Figures 3 and 4.

The situation in respect of the actuation of the actuating button 3 according to a further embodiment is now explained on the basis of Figures 3 and 4. In this embodiment, the guide elements 33 exhibit an abutment element 32 at their respective ends. The abutment element 32 in this case engages on the rear side 35 of the mounting frame 2, so that an abutment is provided against any displacement from the initial position towards the front, that is to say contrary to the direction of the normal actuation in the direction of the end position.

At the same time, the abutment element 32 provides the pivot axis A2, about which the actuating button 3 pivots in relation to the mounting frame 2. In conjunction with pivoting in this embodiment, the bearing element 14 is displaced from the receiver 13 in the direction of the channel 15. The application of a press to the left-hand region 5 or the right-hand region 6 thus causes the bearing element 14 to be displaced from the receiver. If a press is applied to the right-hand region 6, the abutment elements 32 arranged on the left are in contact with the rear side 35 of the mounting frame 2, and if a press is applied to the left-hand region 5, the abutment elements 32 arranged on the right are in contact with the rear side 35 of the mounting frame 2.

The abutment element 32 and the rear side 35 in this case consequently serve as a pivot bearing or a pivot point, about which the actuating button is caused to pivot.

The actuating button 3 in this case can be caused to pivot until the actuating button 3 is in alignment with the surface 11 on the wall 9 or on the mounting frame 2. The actuator element 4 is then actuated with the actuating button 3 and the flush is released.

It can also be appreciated from Figures 3 and 6, furthermore, that the actuating device 1 exhibits an actuating lever 19 that is optional in a number of embodiments. The actuating lever 19 is an additional element in relation to the arrangement of the latching elements 36 and 37. This actuating lever 19 acts with a shoulder 20 on the actuator element 4. Upon actuation of the actuation button 3, the actuation button acts on the actuating lever 19, which is then caused to pivot accordingly and encounters the actuator element 4. In the presence of this actuation lever 19, the restoring element 18 preferably acts via this actuating lever 19 on the actuating button 3. The actuating lever 19 is pivotably supported in the mounting frame 2 at two bearing points 21. If the actuating lever 19 is now disposed between the actuator element 4 and the actuating button 3, the surface 11 of the actuating button 3 acts on the actuating lever 19, which is then caused to pivot about the corresponding bearing point 21. The actuating lever 19 then acts with its shoulder 20 on the actuator element 4, with the result that the flush is released.

The restoration of the actuating button 3 from the flush position into the initial position then takes place via the restoring elements 18. It can be appreciated from Figures 3 and 6 that a restoring element 18, in this case in the form of a plurality of leaf springs 18, is disposed between the mounting frame 2 and the actuating button 3. The restoring elements 18 act on the rear surface 22 of the actuating button 3 and are in connection with the mounting frame 2 via the rear wall 28.

The restoring element 18 in this case provides a restoring force on the actuating button 3. The actuating button 3 is thus displaced from the flush position into the initial position. In the initial position, the actuation button 3 then rests accordingly in the bearing point 12.

The actuator element 4 in the present embodiment preferably exhibits the form of a pneumatic pressure transducer. A pressure impulse, which acts on a flush valve arrangement, is generated by the pneumatic pressure transducer in this case. A pressure hose can then be led into the sanitary bathroom cistern via the openings 30. With regard to the actuator element 4, it should be further noted that the actuator element 4 is disposed between the actuating button 3 and the mounting frame 2. Most preferably, the actuator element 4 is in connection with the mounting frame 2 or is supported in the mounting frame 2. Since pneumatic pressure transducers generally provide only a small resistance upon actuation, a combination with a pressure point element 36 is particularly advantageous here.

In summary, the actuating device 1 offers the advantage that extremely simple manufacturing and installation of the actuating device 1 are permitted. In addition, aesthetic requirements can also be taken into account. The actuating device 1 is more reliable in service, furthermore, since the possibility of catching between the actuating button and a frame is excluded.

LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS 1 actuating device 2 mounting frame 3 actuating button 4 actuator element 5 left-hand region 6 right-hand region 7 dividing line 8 wall opening 9 wall 10 plane 11 front surface 12 bearing points 13 receiver 14 resilient bearing element 15 open channel 16 wall 17 spring 18 restoring element 19 actuating lever 20 shoulder 21 bearing points 22 rear surface 23 frame 24 abutment section 25 wall section 26 flange 27 interior space 28 rear wall 29 side wall 30 opening 31 rigid bearing element 32 abutment element 33 guide element 34 guide opening 35 rear side 36 pressure point element 37 first latching element 38 second latching element 39 spring element

Claims

An actuator (1) for a flushing valve in a flushing container, comprising an integral frame (2), an actuating key (3) and at least one actuating means (4) for activating the flushing valve in the flushing container, which actuating means (4) can be actuated by the actuating key (3), and wherein the actuating key (3) of the recessed frame (2) is designed so that, upon triggering a rinse, it can be moved, in particular, from an initial position to an end position, and the actuator (1) at least is provided in a mechanical pressure point means (36) arranged between the built-in frame (2) and the activation key (3), wherein the pressure point means (36) comprises a first adjusting means (37) and a second corresponding to this first adjusting means (37). a first member (37) being a cam and the two two (37, 38) being arranged by two mutually movable members in active the actuating device (1), wherein the two engaging means (37, 38) can be moved relative to each other by actuation, and wherein the two engaging means (37, 38) of the pressure point means (36) can provide a pressure on the actuating key (3). from the starting position and towards an end position acting clear resistance which can be felt by a user and where this resistance is overcome by increasing activating force and where the two engaging means (37, 38) in the starting position are in contact with each other so that a pressure point (36) is already evident by a movement from the starting position, characterized in that by activating the activation key (3), an overshoot of the two insertion means (37, 38) occurs and that the second insertion means (38) is a cam.

Activation device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first adjustment means (37) is arranged at the mounting frame (2) and the second adjustment means (38) is arranged by the activation key (3).

Activation device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the first engaging means (37) is assigned by an additional means (19) in the activating device (1) and the second engaging means (38) is arranged by the activation key (3) or by the flush-mounted frame (2), and the additional member (19) is designed to move the activation key (3) or the flush-mounted frame (2).

Activation device according to claim 3, characterized in that the further means (19) is an activation device (1) which can be actuated by the activation key (3) and act on the actuating means (4).

Activating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first insertion means (37) and / or the second insertion means (38) are in contact with a spring element (39).

Activating device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first engaging means (37) and / or the second engaging means (38) are designed as rigid members.

Activation device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the built-in frame (2) defines a plane (10) and wherein the activation key (3) can be rotated relative to the plane (10) about at least one axis (A1, A2, A3) which is parallel to the plane (10) and wherein the activation key (3) can be rotated relative to said at least one axis (a1, A2, A3) in at least one direction of rotation about the axis (A1, A2, A3), and there are at least one, preferably two, pressure point means (36) per direction of rotation.

Activation device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is at least one reset member (18) between the integral frame (2) of the activation key (3) and the reset member can provide a reset force on the activation key (3) so that the activation key (3) ) is moved to the initial position and the reset means (18) preferably acts on the actuator key (3) by means of an actuator rod (19).

Activation device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating means (4) is designed as a pneumatic pressure inducing means.

Activation device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the built-in frame (2) and the activation key (3) communicate with each other via at least one bearing location (12) and that for each axis (A1, A2, A3) is arranged in particular two spaced apart locations (12); and that the bearing location preferably comprises a receiving member (13) and preferably a bearing member (14, 31), and that the bearing member (14) can be suspended in the receiving member (13) and that the bearing member (14) is resiliently formed by a spring (17). ), or that the bearing member (31) is rigidly shaped and that the bearing member (14, 31) is preferably a bearing pin (14, 31) and that the bearing pin (14, 31) may be suspended in the corresponding receiving member (13) or frame member (13), respectively. 2).

Activation device according to claim 10, characterized in that the bearing pins (14, 31) are assigned to the activation key (3) and that the receiving means (13) can be suspended in the built-in frame (2).

Activation device according to one of claims 10 or 11, characterized in that the bearing pins (14, 31) are assigned to the mounting frame (2) and that the receiving means (13) are assigned to the activation key (3) and that the bearing pin (14) is preferably extending along an axis (M), and the receiving means (13) preferably extending along an axis (M) and the axes (M) extending parallel to said plane (10), and the activation key (3) being rotatable said axis (M).

Activation device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that there are two bearing locations (12) defining a single axis (A1) or that four bearing locations (12) are defined as two axes (A1, A2 ).

Activation device according to one of the preceding claims 10 to 13, characterized in that the receiving means (13) regarding the direction of movement of the activation key (2) is designed as a channel from the initial position to the flush position, and that the actuation pin (7) is moved through this open channel (15) and that the channel (15) towards the activation key (2) is preferably closed by a wall (16) thereby forming a stop for the bearing pin (14).

Activation device according to one of the preceding claims 10 to 14, characterized in that the activation key (2) and / or the frame (3) have at least one guiding means (33) and the guiding means (33) '' guides' the movement between the activation key. (2) and the mounting frame (3), and the guide member (22) has an optional stop means (32) which engages the mounting frame (3) so that a movement of the activation key (3) from the home position opposite the direction to the end position can be blocked. and that said axis (A1, A2, A3) can be provided by the stop means (32).

Activation device according to one of the preceding claims 10 to 15, characterized in that the built-in frame (2) defines a plane (4) and the activation key (3) is rotatable about the first axis (A1) which runs parallel to said plane and that the activation key (3) can be rotated about a second axis (A2) running parallel to the plane and parallel to the first axis (A1), or that the activation device (1) comprises just a single activation key (3), and / or that the activation key (3) is designed as a flat plate and / or that the activation key, seen in a direction perpendicular to this key (3), is larger than the recessed frame (2) so that the recessed frame (2), seen in said direction, is in the main case completely covered by the activation key (3).