EP0268050B1 - Installation for cleaning the pipe system of a whirlpool and a whirl pool nozzle valve - Google Patents

Installation for cleaning the pipe system of a whirlpool and a whirl pool nozzle valve Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0268050B1
EP0268050B1 EP87114469A EP87114469A EP0268050B1 EP 0268050 B1 EP0268050 B1 EP 0268050B1 EP 87114469 A EP87114469 A EP 87114469A EP 87114469 A EP87114469 A EP 87114469A EP 0268050 B1 EP0268050 B1 EP 0268050B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
water
pipe
cleaning apparatus
cleaning
outlet
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP87114469A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0268050A2 (en
EP0268050A3 (en
Inventor
Okko K. Dijkhuizen
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Ucosan BV
Original Assignee
Ucosan BV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Ucosan BV filed Critical Ucosan BV
Priority to AT87114469T priority Critical patent/ATE69157T1/en
Publication of EP0268050A2 publication Critical patent/EP0268050A2/en
Publication of EP0268050A3 publication Critical patent/EP0268050A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0268050B1 publication Critical patent/EP0268050B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08CLEANING
    • B08BCLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/02Cleaning pipes or tubes or systems of pipes or tubes
    • B08B9/027Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages
    • B08B9/032Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
    • B08B9/0321Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing using pressurised, pulsating or purging fluid
    • B08B9/0323Arrangements specially designed for simultaneous and parallel cleaning of a plurality of conduits
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths
    • A61H33/027Gas-water mixing nozzles therefor
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/6068Outlet from the bath
    • A61H33/6073Intake mouths for recirculation of fluid in whirlpool baths
    • A61H33/6078Combined with waste outlets
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08CLEANING
    • B08BCLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B9/00Cleaning hollow articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto 
    • B08B9/02Cleaning pipes or tubes or systems of pipes or tubes
    • B08B9/027Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages
    • B08B9/032Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing
    • B08B9/0321Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing using pressurised, pulsating or purging fluid
    • B08B9/0328Cleaning the internal surfaces; Removal of blockages by the mechanical action of a moving fluid, e.g. by flushing using pressurised, pulsating or purging fluid by purging the pipe with a gas or a mixture of gas and liquid
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H2033/0008Arrangement for cleaning the installation before or after use
    • A61H2033/0016Arrangement for cleaning the installation before or after use using cleansing products
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61HPHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H33/00Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A61H33/601Inlet to the bath
    • A61H33/6021Nozzles
    • A61H33/6063Specifically adapted for fitting in bathtub walls

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a cleaning device for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with one or more outlet valves for supplying water and / or air into the interior of the tub, which branch off from a circulation system for the cleaning liquid that has a feed pump and is independent of the tub interior and are provided with a closure body in order to bring the outlet valves into a closed position, which is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior, for the flow of cleaning fluid.
  • a device for disinfecting or cleaning a piping system of a whirlpool tub which is provided with one or more outlet valves for the supply of water and / or air into the interior of the tub.
  • the outlet valves branch off from a circulation system for the cleaning liquid which has a feed pump and is independent of the tub interior and are formed in the closure point which is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior for the flow of cleaning fluid.
  • Cover or shut-off devices are provided as means for the closed position of the outlet nozzles that is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior.
  • the Cover means are used to shut off each nozzle and the associated outlet from the interior of the bathtub in order to supply the disinfectant solution circulating through the nozzle through the assigned outlet during the disinfection.
  • the means should have a cover element, such as a snap-in cap or a screw-on cap, which fits snugly over the end of each nozzle, so that the circulating disinfectant solution of the nozzle is guided through the assigned air supply arrangement .
  • Cleaning devices for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with one or more outlet valves for the supply of water and / or air into the interior of the tub are also known, for example, from DE-U-8 416 982.
  • the tub there has a tub drain opening in the tub floor and vortex nozzles installed in the wall area for the introduction of water or a water-air mixture and at least one suction opening arranged in the wall area, the suction opening with the suction side and the vortex nozzles with the pressure side one arranged on the tub Pump are connected via pipes.
  • the tub drain opening is provided on the outside with a drain socket with a connection opening for a drain line, which is connected to a drain opening on the pump.
  • the pump is arranged with its emptying opening at a higher level on the trough than the connection opening of the drain line at the outlet connection and a shut-off valve provided with a controllable actuator is arranged in the drain line.
  • the object of the present invention is to further develop a cleaning device of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that it permits reliable cleaning of the pipeline system and nevertheless enables simple handling during assembly and operation.
  • the water supply line branching off from the circulation system to the respective outlet valve opens into a water distribution chamber arranged in a valve body of the outlet valve, from which a water outlet channel branches off in the direction of the tub interior, in that the closure body is arranged in the water outlet channel and has a smaller cross-section than the water distribution chamber, which it penetrates in a watertight, axially adjustable manner, that the end face of the closure body in the closed position is flush with the adjacent end face of the valve body or protrudes dome-shaped and that the return line (flushing line) from the water distribution chamber branches, which is in the closed position of the closure body in flow connection with the water supply line.
  • the closure body preferably passes axially completely through the valve body and thus also the water distribution chamber and is connected at its end facing away from the tub to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuated piston. In this way, the closure body can be easily brought into the closed and open positions.
  • an air distribution chamber is arranged in the valve body and / or the valve housing, into which an air supply line opens and from which an air outlet duct branches; in the air outlet duct there is a through the air distribution chamber, preferably hollow cylindrical, shut-off body adjustable and airtight adjustable, the tub-side end face in the closed position is flush with the adjacent end face of the valve body or the valve housing or protrudes dome-shaped. This ensures that no disadvantageous water residues can accumulate in the area of the air supply.
  • the shut-off body preferably also passes axially completely through the valve body and at its end facing away from the tub it is connected to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuable piston which can be the same piston by which the closure body is also carried.
  • the piston mentioned is preferably guided axially in the valve housing.
  • the circulation system has two substantially parallel pipeline branches, one branch of which is the supply line, from which the outlet valves branch, from each of which return lines (flushing lines) open into the other line of pipeline, which forms the return line.
  • a fresh water line can open into the circulation system, preferably into the return line, which serves to provide the water required for cleaning, rinsing and supplying the outlet valves in whirlpool operation.
  • the fresh water line preferably opens into a water tank serving as a storage container, from which a connecting line branches off to the circulatory system.
  • a cleaning agent supply line can also open into the circulatory system, preferably into the return line, whereby a simplified supply of cleaning agent to the fresh water is possible.
  • the circulatory system is in flow connection with the water outflow from the tub, preferably at the point furthest away from the feed pump.
  • the used cleaning liquid can thus be drained off via the tub drain which can be opened but can also be closed again with respect to the circulatory system.
  • the supply line and return line are preferably connected to one another at intervals by means of spacer elements, which can be expedient given the length of the lines.
  • the connecting pieces for the outlet valves, the return lines, the fresh water line, the connecting line and / or the detergent supply line can be integrally formed on the spacer elements.
  • the assembly is further simplified if the spacer elements have sleeve-shaped sections through which the feed line and / or the return line are passed.
  • the cleaning device according to FIG. 1 for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with a plurality of outlet valves 2 arranged in the bottom region of the tub 1 for the supply of water and / or air into the interior 5 of the tub 1 is characterized in that the outlet valves 2 have one branch off a circulation system 4 for the cleaning liquid which has a feed pump 3 and is independent of the tub interior 5 and through which the cleaning liquid flows in the closed position, but prevent the escape of cleaning fluid into the tub interior 5.
  • the circulatory system 4 has two essentially parallel pipeline branches 6 and 7 which run in the longitudinal direction of the tub below the tub 1 and save space.
  • the outlet valves 2 branch off from one pipeline branch (flow branch) 6.
  • return lines (rinsing lines) 8 each open into the other pipeline branch (Return branch) 7. This ensures that in cleaning operation not only the entire pipe system, but also the cavities of the outlet valves 2 are flowed through by cleaning liquid.
  • a fresh water line 9 opens into a water tank 10, from which a connecting line 11 branches off to the circulatory system 4.
  • a detergent supply line 13 opens into the return branch 7 and carries a detergent receptacle 31 accessible to the user at its upper end.
  • the detergent supply can be designed so that the detergents u. Like. Are gradually drawn into the circulatory system 4 when circulating the cleaning liquid in the circulatory system 4 due to the Venturi principle.
  • the circulatory system 4 is in flow connection at the end of the two parallel pipeline branches 6, 7 opposite the feed pump 3 with the tub spout 12, so that the circulatory system 4 can be emptied easily.
  • the tub drain 12 can in particular be brought into a closed position and an open position with respect to the circulatory system 4.
  • Forward branch 6 and return branch 7 are connected to one another at approximately equal intervals by spacer elements 14, so that a stable unit is created.
  • the connecting piece 15 for the outlet valves 2 and / or the return line 8 and / or the connecting line 11 and / or the detergent supply line 13 are integrally formed on the spacer element 14, which allows easy assembly.
  • the spacer elements also have sleeve-shaped sections 16, through which the feed line 6 and the return line 7 are passed. This further simplifies assembly.
  • an outlet valve 2 for whirlpool tubs is illustrated schematically, which is particularly suitable for a cleaning device of the type described above is suitable.
  • the water supply line 17 to the outlet valve 2 opens into a water distribution chamber 19 arranged in the valve body 18, from which the water outlet channel 20 branches vertically in the direction shown in the tub interior 5 in the case shown.
  • a cylindrical closure body penetrating the water distribution chamber 19 is axially adjustable in a watertight manner.
  • the closure body 21 has a smaller cross section than the water distribution chamber 19, so that even in the closed position, an annular chamber part of the water distribution chamber 19, in which the water supply line 17 opens, remains free.
  • a return line (rinsing line) 8 branches off from the water distribution chamber 19 and, because of the remaining free ring chamber part of the water distribution chamber 19, is also in flow connection with the water supply line 17 when the closure body 21 is in the closed position. In this way it can be achieved that cleaning fluid can also flow through the inner cavities of the outlet valve 2, in particular in the case of a cleaning device of the type described above.
  • the closure body 21 passes completely axially through the valve body 18 and is connected at its end remote from the tub to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuable piston 24.
  • a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuable piston 24 By said axial actuation of the piston 24, the closure body 21 can thus be moved so far down from the illustrated closure position into an open position that the water supplied via the water supply line 17 emerges from the water outlet channel 20 into the tub interior 5, in the case shown a valve body 18 on the valve body 33 is set up, in which an independent invention is implemented, which is described in more detail in DE-A-3 640 497.
  • an air distribution chamber 26 Arranged in the valve body 18 and the valve housing 25 is an air distribution chamber 26 which surrounds the water distribution chamber 19 in an annular manner, into which the air supply line 27 opens and from which an air outlet channel 28 which surrounds the water outlet channel 20 branches off.
  • a hollow cylindrical shut-off body 29 passing through the air distribution chamber 26 is axially adjustable in an air-tight and watertight manner.
  • the tub-side end face 30 of the shut-off body 29 is also flush in the closed position with the adjacent end face 23 of the valve body 18 or the valve housing 25 or projects only slightly dome-shaped in accordance with the illustration, so that no water can accumulate here in the closed position.
  • the shut-off body 29 also passes completely axially through the valve body 18 and is connected at its tub end to the piston 24, which in turn can be guided axially in the valve housing 25.
  • Water and air supply are controlled so that the closure body 21 can only be brought into the open position when air pressure is also present. Conversely, the air pressure can only be switched off when the closure body 21 is in the closed position.
  • Relatively large closing forces are provided in the outlet valve 2, so that a hermetic closure of the tub interior 5 with respect to the circulatory system 4 is always ensured in the closed position of the closure body 21 and shut-off body 29.
  • FIGS. 3a and 3b The configuration of the outlet valve 2 resulting from FIGS. 3a and 3b works in principle in exactly the same way as the outlet valve 2 according to FIG. 2. Only the assignment of the individual parts, lines and chambers is somewhat changed. Sealing rings ensure reliable sealing of the closure body 21 and the shut-off body 29 with respect to the valve body 18 and the valve housing 25 in the closed position.
  • 3a and 3b each show the opening position for water and air outlet into the tub interior 5, on the right side in each case the closed position is illustrated, but flushing the valve interior via the flushing line 8 is made possible.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)
  • Bathtub Accessories (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a cleaning device for a piping system of a whirlpool tub where one or more outlet valves supply water and/or air into the interior of the tub. The outlet valves branch off from a cleaning-fluid circulation system using a delivery pump to circulate the cleaning fluid. When the cleaning fluid is circulated the outlet valves are in a closed position, receiving a flow of the cleaning fluid, but preventing the issuance of the cleaning fluid into the tub interior. The outlet valve has a water-supply line connecting into a water-distribution chamber disposed in a valve body, from which a water-outlet channel branches toward the tub interior. The water-outlet channel guides, in a watertight and axially movable manner, a sealing member passing through the water-distribution chamber. The sealing member has a smaller cross section than the water-distribution chamber, and an end face of the sealing remember, when in a closed position, is precisely flush with or bulges just slightly beyond an adjoining end face of the valve body.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Reinigungseinrichtung für das Rohrleitungssystem einer Whirlpool-Wanne mit einem oder mehreren Austrittsventilen für die Zufuhr von Wasser und/oder Luft in den Innenraum der Wanne, welche von einem eine Förderpumpe aufweisenden, von dem Wanneninnenraum unabhängigen Kreislaufsystem für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit abzweigen und mit einem Verschlußkörper versehen sind, um die Austrittsventile in eine gegenüber dem Wanneninnenraum flüssigkeitsdichte Verschlußstellung zur Durchströmung von Reinigungsflüssigkeit zu bringen.The invention relates to a cleaning device for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with one or more outlet valves for supplying water and / or air into the interior of the tub, which branch off from a circulation system for the cleaning liquid that has a feed pump and is independent of the tub interior and are provided with a closure body in order to bring the outlet valves into a closed position, which is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior, for the flow of cleaning fluid.

Aus der DE-A-3 447 772 ist eine Vorrichtung zum Desinfizieren bzw. Reinigen für ein Rohrleitungssystem einer Whirlpool-Wanne bekannt, das mit einem oder mehreren Austrittsventilen für die Zufuhr von Wasser und/oder Luft in den Innenraum der Wanne versehen ist. Dabei zweigen die Austrittsventile von einem eine Förderpumpe aufweisenden, von dem Wanneninnenraum unabhängigen Kreislaufsystem für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit ab und sind in der gegenüber dem Wanneninnenraum flüssigkeitsdichten Verschlußstelle zur Durchströmung von Reinigungsflüssigkeit ausgebildet. Als Mittel für die gegenüber dem Wanneninnenraum flüssigkeitsdichte Verschlußstellung der Austrittsdüsen sind Abdeck- oder Absperreinrichtungen vorgesehen. So soll in einem Falle, bei dem die Badewanne benachbart jeder Düse über einen Auslauf verfügt, der mit der Einlaßsaugseite einer Pumpe verbunden ist, durch welche im Betrieb und während des Badens das zirkulierende Wasser durch die Pumpe abgesaugt wird, die Abdeckeinrichtung dazu dienen, jede Düse und den zugeordneten Auslaß aus dem Innenraum der Badewanne abzusperren, um während der Desinfektion die durch die Düse zirkulierende Desinfektionslösung durch den zugeordneten Auslaß zuzuführen. In einem anderen Fall, bei dem jeder Düse eine Luftzuführungsanordnung zugeordnet ist, sollen die Mittel ein über das Ende jeder Düse eng passendes Abdeckelement, wie beispielsweise eine Einrastkappe oder eine Aufschraubkappe, aufweisen, so daß die zirkulierende Desinfektionslösung der Düse durch die zugeordnete Luftzuführungsanordnung geführt wird. Mit dieser bekannten Einrichtung ist zwar eine Reinigung des Rohrleitungssystems einer Whirlpool-Wanne möglich, sie kann dagegen nicht verhindern, daß in den Austrittsventilen unmittelbar oberhalb des Austrittsventils Hohlräume verbleiben, in welchen Restwasser stehen bleibt und/oder sich Keimablagerungen bilden können.From DE-A-3 447 772 a device for disinfecting or cleaning a piping system of a whirlpool tub is known, which is provided with one or more outlet valves for the supply of water and / or air into the interior of the tub. The outlet valves branch off from a circulation system for the cleaning liquid which has a feed pump and is independent of the tub interior and are formed in the closure point which is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior for the flow of cleaning fluid. Cover or shut-off devices are provided as means for the closed position of the outlet nozzles that is liquid-tight with respect to the tub interior. Thus, in a case in which the bathtub adjacent to each nozzle has an outlet which is connected to the inlet suction side of a pump, through which the circulating water is drawn off by the pump during operation and during bathing, the Cover means are used to shut off each nozzle and the associated outlet from the interior of the bathtub in order to supply the disinfectant solution circulating through the nozzle through the assigned outlet during the disinfection. In another case, in which an air supply arrangement is assigned to each nozzle, the means should have a cover element, such as a snap-in cap or a screw-on cap, which fits snugly over the end of each nozzle, so that the circulating disinfectant solution of the nozzle is guided through the assigned air supply arrangement . With this known device a cleaning of the piping system of a whirlpool tub is possible, but it cannot prevent cavities from remaining in the outlet valves immediately above the outlet valve, in which residual water remains and / or germ deposits can form.

Reinigungseinrichtungen für das Rohrleitungssystem einer Whirlpool-Wanne mit einem oder mehreren Austrittsventilen für die Zufuhr von Wasser und/oder Luft in den Innenraum der Wanne sind beispielsweise auch aus dem DE-U-8 416 982 bekannt. Die dortige Wanne hat eine Wannenablauföffnung im Wannenboden sowie im Wandbereich eingebaute Wirbeldüsen für die Einleitung von Wasser oder eines Wasser-Luft-Gemisches und wenigstens einer im Wandbereich angeordneten Absaugöffnung, wobei die Absaugöffnung mit der Saugseite und die Wirbeldüsen mit der Druckseite einer an der Wanne angeordneten Pumpe jeweils über Rohrleitungen verbunden sind. Die Wannenablauföffnung ist nach außen mit einem Ablaufstutzen mit einer Anschlußöffnung für eine Ablaßleitung versehen, die mit einer Entleerungsöffnung an der Pumpe verbunden ist. Die Pumpe ist mit ihrer Entleerungsöffnung im Niveau höher an der Wanne angeordnet als die Anschlußöffnung der Ablaßleitung am Ablaufstutzen und in der Ablaßleitung ist ein mit einem steuerbaren Stellantrieb versehenes Absperrventil angeordnet. Hierdurch soll bei jedem Wasserwechsel vor der endgültigen Inbetriebnahme eine Vorspülung des internen Rohrleitungssystems erfolgen. Die bekannte Reinigungseinrichtung ist aufgrund der vielen Teile und notwendigen Steuerung verhältnismäßig aufwendig in Herstellung und Montage und setzt insbesondere wegen der Notwendigkeit des Niveaus der Pumpe einen bestimmten Platzbedarf voraus, der nicht überall vorhanden ist. Außerdem wird beim Vorspülvorgang Wasser benutzt, welches aus dem Wanneninnenraum stammt, so daß Schmutz in das Rohrleitungssystem eingetragen werden kann. Die Zugabe von Reinigungsmitteln ist, was in manchen Fällen von Keimherden und sonstiger Kontamination des Rohrleitungssystems erforderlich ist, nicht möglich, es sei denn, es würde in zeitaufwendiger Weise eine besondere Wannenfüllung dafür vorgenommen.Cleaning devices for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with one or more outlet valves for the supply of water and / or air into the interior of the tub are also known, for example, from DE-U-8 416 982. The tub there has a tub drain opening in the tub floor and vortex nozzles installed in the wall area for the introduction of water or a water-air mixture and at least one suction opening arranged in the wall area, the suction opening with the suction side and the vortex nozzles with the pressure side one arranged on the tub Pump are connected via pipes. The tub drain opening is provided on the outside with a drain socket with a connection opening for a drain line, which is connected to a drain opening on the pump. The pump is arranged with its emptying opening at a higher level on the trough than the connection opening of the drain line at the outlet connection and a shut-off valve provided with a controllable actuator is arranged in the drain line. This is intended for everyone Before the final commissioning, the internal piping system is prewashed. The known cleaning device is relatively complex to manufacture and assemble due to the large number of parts and the necessary control and, in particular because of the need for the level of the pump, requires a certain amount of space which is not present everywhere. In addition, water is used in the pre-rinsing process, which comes from the tub interior, so that dirt can be introduced into the piping system. The addition of cleaning agents, which is necessary in some cases of germs and other contamination of the piping system, is not possible, unless a special tub filling was carried out in a time-consuming manner.

Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung ist es, eine Reinigungseinrichtung der eingangs genannten Art derart weiter zu entwickeln, daß sie eine zuverlässige Reinigung des Rohrleitungsystems gestattet und dennoch eine einfache Handhabung bei Montage und Betrieb ermöglicht.The object of the present invention is to further develop a cleaning device of the type mentioned at the outset in such a way that it permits reliable cleaning of the pipeline system and nevertheless enables simple handling during assembly and operation.

Diese Aufgabe wird mit der Erfindung im wesentlichen dadurch gelöst, daß die von dem Kreislaufsystem zu dem jeweiligen Austrittsventil abzweigende Wasserzuführleitung in eine in einem Ventilkörper des Austrittsventils angeordnete Wasserverteilungskammer mündet, von welcher ein Wasseraustrittskanal in Richtung des Wanneninnenraumes abzweigt, daß der Verschlußkörper in dem Wasseraustrittskanal angeordnet ist und einen geringeren Querschnitt hat als die Wasserverteilungskammer, die er wasserdicht, axial verstellbar geführt durchsetzt, daß die wannenseitige Stirnfläche des Verschlußkörpers in Verschlußstellung mit der angrenzenden Stirnfläche des Ventilkörpers eben fluchtet oder diese kuppenförmig überragt und daß von der Wasserverteilungskammer die Rückführungsleitung (Spülleitung) abzweigt, welche in Verschlußstellung des Verschlußkörpers in Strömungsverbindung mit der Wasserzufuhrleitung steht.This object is essentially achieved with the invention in that the water supply line branching off from the circulation system to the respective outlet valve opens into a water distribution chamber arranged in a valve body of the outlet valve, from which a water outlet channel branches off in the direction of the tub interior, in that the closure body is arranged in the water outlet channel and has a smaller cross-section than the water distribution chamber, which it penetrates in a watertight, axially adjustable manner, that the end face of the closure body in the closed position is flush with the adjacent end face of the valve body or protrudes dome-shaped and that the return line (flushing line) from the water distribution chamber branches, which is in the closed position of the closure body in flow connection with the water supply line.

Mit der erfindungsgemäßen Lösung wird erreicht, daß in Verschlußstellung des Verschlußkörpers der eine Teil des Austrittsventils von der Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmt werden kann, während unmittelbar oberhalb des Austrittsventils keine Vertiefungen zurückbleiben, in denen sich Restwasser aus dem Wanneninnenraum ansammeln und/oder Keimablagerungen bilden könnten. In Öffnungsstellung gibt der Verschlußkörper den Durchgang zum Wanneninnenraum für den Whirlpool-Betrieb frei. Zusammen mit dem Rohrleitungssystem wird also gleichzeitig eine zuverlässige Reinigung der Austrittsdüsen einer Whirlpool-Wanne erreicht. Ein weiterer Vorteil ergibt sich daraus, daß im Reinigungsbetrieb die Wasserverteilungskammer von der Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchspült werden kann, während der Wasseraustrittskanal von dem Verschlußkörper in Verschlußstellung bis zum Wannenboden vollständig ausgefüllt ist und mit diesem dort im wesentlichen fluchtet, so daß Wasseransammlungen vermieden sind.With the solution according to the invention it is achieved that in the closed position of the closure body, part of the outlet valve can be flowed through by the cleaning liquid, while immediately above the outlet valve there are no depressions in which residual water from the tub interior could accumulate and / or germ deposits could form. In the open position, the closure body clears the passage to the tub interior for whirlpool operation. Together with the piping system, reliable cleaning of the outlet nozzles of a whirlpool bath is achieved at the same time. Another advantage arises from the fact that in cleaning operation the water distribution chamber can be flushed with the cleaning liquid, while the water outlet channel is completely filled by the closure body in the closed position up to the tub floor and is essentially flush with it there, so that water accumulations are avoided.

Vorzugsweise durchsetzt der Verschlußkörper den Ventilkörper und damit auch die Wasserverteilungskammer axial vollständig und ist an seinem wannenabgewandten Ende mit einem pneumatisch, hydraulisch oder magnetisch betätigbaren Kolben verbunden. Auf diese Weise kann der Verschlußkörper einfach in Verschluß- und Öffnungsstellung gebracht werden.The closure body preferably passes axially completely through the valve body and thus also the water distribution chamber and is connected at its end facing away from the tub to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuated piston. In this way, the closure body can be easily brought into the closed and open positions.

In weiterer Ausgestaltung des Erfindungsgedankens ist in dem Ventilkörper und/oder dem Ventilgehäuse eine Luftverteilungskammer angeordnet, in welche eine Luftzufuhrleitung mündet und von welcher ein Luftaustrittskanal abzweigt; in dem Luftaustrittskanal ist dabei ein die Luftverteilungskammer durchsetzender, vorzugsweise hohlzylindrischer, Absperrkörper luftund wasserdicht verstellbar geführt, dessen wannenseitige Stirnfläche in Verschlußstellung mit der angrenzenden Stirnfläche des Ventilkörpers oder des Ventilgehäuses eben fluchtet oder diese kuppenförmig überragt. Hierdurch wird erreicht, daß sich auch im Bereich der Luftzufuhr keine nachteiligen Wasserreste ansammeln können.In a further embodiment of the inventive concept, an air distribution chamber is arranged in the valve body and / or the valve housing, into which an air supply line opens and from which an air outlet duct branches; in the air outlet duct there is a through the air distribution chamber, preferably hollow cylindrical, shut-off body adjustable and airtight adjustable, the tub-side end face in the closed position is flush with the adjacent end face of the valve body or the valve housing or protrudes dome-shaped. This ensures that no disadvantageous water residues can accumulate in the area of the air supply.

Vorzugsweise durchsetzt auch der Absperrkörper den Ventilkörper axial vollständig und an seinem wannenabgewandten Ende ist er mit einem pneumatisch, hydraulisch oder magnetisch betätigbaren Kolben verbunden, welcher derselbe Kolben sein kann, von welchem auch der Verschlußkörper getragen wird.The shut-off body preferably also passes axially completely through the valve body and at its end facing away from the tub it is connected to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuable piston which can be the same piston by which the closure body is also carried.

Der genannte Kolben wird vorzugsweise in dem Ventilgehäuse axial geführt.The piston mentioned is preferably guided axially in the valve housing.

Bei einer besonderen Ausgestaltung des Erfindungsgedankens weist das Kreislaufsystem zwei im wesentlichen parallele Rohrleitungszweige auf, deren einer Zweig die Vorlaufleitung ist, von der die Austrittsventile abzweigen, von welchen jeweils Rückführungsleitungen (Spülleitungen) in den anderen Rohrleitungszweig, der die Rücklaufleitung bildet, münden. Auf diese Weise ist bei raumsparender Unterbringung des Kreislaufsystems eine vollständige Durchströmung und Reinigung der Austrittsventile neben dem Rohrleitungssystem selbst gewährleistet.In a special embodiment of the concept of the invention, the circulation system has two substantially parallel pipeline branches, one branch of which is the supply line, from which the outlet valves branch, from each of which return lines (flushing lines) open into the other line of pipeline, which forms the return line. In this way, a complete flow and cleaning of the outlet valves next to the piping system itself is guaranteed with space-saving accommodation of the circulation system.

In das Kreislaufsystem, vorzugsweise in die Rücklaufleitung, kann eine Frischwasserleitung münden, die der zur Verfügungstellung des erforderlichen Wassers für die Reinigung, das Nachspülen und die Versorgung der Austrittsventile im Whirlpool-Betrieb dient.A fresh water line can open into the circulation system, preferably into the return line, which serves to provide the water required for cleaning, rinsing and supplying the outlet valves in whirlpool operation.

Dabei mündet die Frischwasserleitung vorzugsweise in einen als Vorratsbehälter dienenden Wasserkasten, von welchem eine Verbindungsleitung zu dem Kreislaufsystem abzweigt.The fresh water line preferably opens into a water tank serving as a storage container, from which a connecting line branches off to the circulatory system.

In das Kreislaufsystem, vorzugsweise in die Rücklaufleitung, kann ferner eine Reinigungsmittelzufuhrleitung münden, wodurch eine vereinfachte Reinigungsmittelzufuhr zum Frischwasser möglich ist.A cleaning agent supply line can also open into the circulatory system, preferably into the return line, whereby a simplified supply of cleaning agent to the fresh water is possible.

Das Kreislaufsystem steht bei einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung der Erfindung, vorzugsweise an der von der Förderpumpe am entferntesten liegenden Stelle, mit dem Wasserabfluß der Wanne in Strömungsverbindung. Damit kann die verbrauchte Reinigungsflüssigkeit über den gegenüber dem Kreislaufsystem öffenbaren, aber auch wieder schließbaren Wannenabfluß abgelassen werden.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the circulatory system is in flow connection with the water outflow from the tub, preferably at the point furthest away from the feed pump. The used cleaning liquid can thus be drained off via the tub drain which can be opened but can also be closed again with respect to the circulatory system.

Zur sicheren Montage sind Vorlaufleitung und Rücklaufleitung vorzugsweise in Abständen über Abstandshalteelemente miteinander verbunden, was bei der Länge der Leitungen zweckmäßig sein kann.For safe installation, the supply line and return line are preferably connected to one another at intervals by means of spacer elements, which can be expedient given the length of the lines.

In konstruktiv einfacher Ausgestaltung des Erfindungsgedankens können dabei die Anschlußstutzen für die Austrittsventile, die Rückführungsleitungen, die Frischwasserleitung, die Verbindungsleitung und/oder die Reinigungsmittelzufuhrleitung einstückig an den Abstandshalteelementen ausgebildet sein.In a structurally simple embodiment of the inventive concept, the connecting pieces for the outlet valves, the return lines, the fresh water line, the connecting line and / or the detergent supply line can be integrally formed on the spacer elements.

Die Montage wird dann noch weiter vereinfacht, wenn die Abstandshalteelemente muffenförmige Abschnitte aufweisen, durch welche die Vorlaufleitung und/oder die Rücklaufleitung hindurchgeführt sind.The assembly is further simplified if the spacer elements have sleeve-shaped sections through which the feed line and / or the return line are passed.

Weitere Ziele, Merkmale, Vorteile und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der vorliegenden Erfindung ergeben sich aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung von Ausführungsbeispielen anhand der Zeichnung.Further objectives, features, advantages and possible uses of the present invention result from the following Description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing.

Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
schematisch in Schrägansicht eine die Erfindung aufweisende Reinigungseinrichtung in Beziehung zur Whirlpool-Wanne,
Fig. 2
schematisch im Vertikalschnitt ein Ausführungsbeispiel für das erfindungsgemäße Austrittsventil,
Fig. 3a
in Schrägansicht geschnitten eine andere Ausführungsform des erfindinngsgemäßen Austrittsventils, und
Fig. 3b
schematisch einen Vertikalschnitt in Draufsicht durch das Austrittsventil von Fig. 3a.
Show it:
Fig. 1
schematically in oblique view a cleaning device having the invention in relation to the whirlpool tub,
Fig. 2
schematically in vertical section an embodiment of the outlet valve according to the invention,
Fig. 3a
in an oblique view cut another embodiment of the outlet valve according to the invention, and
Fig. 3b
schematically shows a vertical section in plan view through the outlet valve of Fig. 3a.

Die Reinigungseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 1 für das Rohrleitungssystem einer Whirlpool-Wanne mit mehreren im Bodenbereich der Wanne 1 angeordneten Austrittsventilen 2 für die Zufuhr von Wasser und/oder Luft in den Innenraum 5 der Wanne 1 zeichnet sich dadurch aus, daß die Austrittsventile 2 von einem eine Förderpumpe 3 aufweisenden, von dem Wanneninnenraum 5 unabhängigen Kreislaufsystem 4 für die Reinigungsflüssigkeit abzweigen und in Verschlußstellung von der Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmt werden, aber den Austritt von Reinigungsflüssigkeit in den Wanneninnenraum 5 verhindern. Das Kreislaufsystem 4 weist zu diesem Zweck zwei im wesentlichen parallele, im dargestellten Fall in Wannenlängsrichtung unterhalb der Wanne 1 raumsparend verlaufende Rohrleitungszweige 6 und 7 auf. Von dem einen Rohrleitungszweig (Vorlaufzweig) 6 zweigen die Austrittsventile 2 ab. Von den Austrittsventilen 2 münden jeweils Rückführungsleitungen (Spülleitungen) 8 in den anderen Rohrleitungszweig (Rücklaufzweig) 7. Dadurch wird gewährleistet, daß im Reinigungsbetrieb nicht nur das gesamte Rohrleitungssystem, sondern auch die Hohlräume der Austrittsventile 2 von Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmt werden. Eine Frischwasserleitung 9 mündet in einen Wasserkasten 10, von welchem eine Verbindungsleitung 11 zu dem Kreislaufsystem 4 abzweigt. Ferner mündet in den Rücklaufzweig 7 eine Reinigungsmittelzufuhrleitung 13, welche an ihrem oberen Ende für den Benutzer zugänglich einen Reinigungsmittelaufnahmebehälter 31 trägt. Die Reinigungsmittelzufuhr kann so ausgebildet sein, daß die Detergenzien u. dgl. beim Umlaufen der Reinigungsflüssigkeit in dem Kreislaufsystem 4 aufgrund des Venturi-Prinzips in das Kreislaufsystem 4 allmählich eingezogen werden. Das Kreislaufsystem 4 steht an dem der Förderpumpe 3 entgegengesetzten Ende der beiden parallelen Rohrleitungszweige 6, 7 mit dem Wannenausguß 12 in Strömungsverbindung, wodurch eine Entleerung des Kreislaufsystems 4 einfach erfolgen kann. Der Wannenabfluß 12 kann insbesondere in eine Verschlußstellung und eine Öffnungsstellung bezüglich des Kreislaufsystems 4 gebracht werden.The cleaning device according to FIG. 1 for the piping system of a whirlpool tub with a plurality of outlet valves 2 arranged in the bottom region of the tub 1 for the supply of water and / or air into the interior 5 of the tub 1 is characterized in that the outlet valves 2 have one branch off a circulation system 4 for the cleaning liquid which has a feed pump 3 and is independent of the tub interior 5 and through which the cleaning liquid flows in the closed position, but prevent the escape of cleaning fluid into the tub interior 5. For this purpose, the circulatory system 4 has two essentially parallel pipeline branches 6 and 7 which run in the longitudinal direction of the tub below the tub 1 and save space. The outlet valves 2 branch off from one pipeline branch (flow branch) 6. From the outlet valves 2, return lines (rinsing lines) 8 each open into the other pipeline branch (Return branch) 7. This ensures that in cleaning operation not only the entire pipe system, but also the cavities of the outlet valves 2 are flowed through by cleaning liquid. A fresh water line 9 opens into a water tank 10, from which a connecting line 11 branches off to the circulatory system 4. Furthermore, a detergent supply line 13 opens into the return branch 7 and carries a detergent receptacle 31 accessible to the user at its upper end. The detergent supply can be designed so that the detergents u. Like. Are gradually drawn into the circulatory system 4 when circulating the cleaning liquid in the circulatory system 4 due to the Venturi principle. The circulatory system 4 is in flow connection at the end of the two parallel pipeline branches 6, 7 opposite the feed pump 3 with the tub spout 12, so that the circulatory system 4 can be emptied easily. The tub drain 12 can in particular be brought into a closed position and an open position with respect to the circulatory system 4.

Vorlaufzweig 6 und Rücklaufzweig 7 sind in etwa gleichen Abständen über Abstandshalteelemente 14 miteinander verbunden, so daß eine stabile Einheit entsteht. Die Anschlußstutzen 15 für die Austrittsventile 2 und/oder die Rückführungsleitung 8 und/oder die Verbindungsleitung 11 und/oder die Reinigungsmittelzufuhrleitung 13 sind einstückig an dem Abstandshalteelement 14 ausgebildet, was eine einfache Montage gestattet. Die Abstandshalteelemente haben ferner muffenförmige Abschnitte 16, durch welche die Vorlaufleitung 6 bzw. die Rücklaufleitung 7 hindurchgeführt sind. Hierdurch wird die Montage noch weiter vereinfacht.Forward branch 6 and return branch 7 are connected to one another at approximately equal intervals by spacer elements 14, so that a stable unit is created. The connecting piece 15 for the outlet valves 2 and / or the return line 8 and / or the connecting line 11 and / or the detergent supply line 13 are integrally formed on the spacer element 14, which allows easy assembly. The spacer elements also have sleeve-shaped sections 16, through which the feed line 6 and the return line 7 are passed. This further simplifies assembly.

In Fig. 2 ist ein Austrittsventil 2 für Whirlpool-Wannen schematisch veranschaulicht, welches sich insbesondere für eine Reinigungseinrichtung der zuvor geschilderten Art eignet. Die Wasserzufuhrleitung 17 zu dem Austrittsventil 2 mündet dabei in eine in dem Ventilkörper 18 angeordnete Wasserverteilungskammer 19, von welcher der Wasseraustrittskanal 20 im dargestellten Falle senkrecht in Richtung des Wanneninnenraumes 5 abzweigt. In dem Wasseraustrittskanal 20 ist ein die Wasserverteilungskammer 19 durchsetzender, zylindrischer Verschlußkörper wasserdicht axial verstellbar geführt. Der Verschlußkörper 21 hat einen geringeren Querschnitt als die Wasserverteilungskammer 19, so daß auch in Verschlußstellung ein Ringkammerteil der Wasserverteilungskammer 19, in welchen die Wasserzufuhrleitung 17 mündet, freibleibt. Die wannenseitige Stirnfläche 22 des Verschlußkörpers 21 fluchtet in Verschlußstellung mit der angrenzenden Stirnfläche 23 des Ventilkörpers 18 eben oder überragt diese entsprechend der Darstellung nur leicht kuppenförmig. Wird also das Ventilgehäuse 25 mit dem Ventilkörper 18, ohne daß eine Vertiefung zurückbleibt, in den Wannenboden 32 entsprechend der zeichnerischen Darstellung eingesetzt, so verbleiben keine Vertiefungen, in welchen sich in nachteiliger Weise Restwasser im Ventilbereich ansammeln könnte. Von der Wasserverteilungskammer 19 zweigt eine Rückführungsleitung (Spülleitung) 8 ab, welche wegen des freibleibenden Ringkammerteils der Wasserverteilungskammer 19 auch in Verschlußstellung des Verschlußkörpers 21 in Strömungsverbindung mit der Wasserzufuhrleitung 17 steht. Auf diese Weise kann erreicht werden, daß insbesondere bei einer Reinigungseinrichtung der oben geschilderten Art auch die inneren Hohlräume des Austrittsventils 2 von Reinigungsflüssigkeit durchströmt werden können.In Fig. 2, an outlet valve 2 for whirlpool tubs is illustrated schematically, which is particularly suitable for a cleaning device of the type described above is suitable. The water supply line 17 to the outlet valve 2 opens into a water distribution chamber 19 arranged in the valve body 18, from which the water outlet channel 20 branches vertically in the direction shown in the tub interior 5 in the case shown. In the water outlet channel 20, a cylindrical closure body penetrating the water distribution chamber 19 is axially adjustable in a watertight manner. The closure body 21 has a smaller cross section than the water distribution chamber 19, so that even in the closed position, an annular chamber part of the water distribution chamber 19, in which the water supply line 17 opens, remains free. The end face 22 of the closure body 21 on the side of the tub is flush with the adjoining end face 23 of the valve body 18 in the closed position or projects only slightly dome-shaped as shown. Thus, if the valve housing 25 with the valve body 18 is inserted into the trough bottom 32 without leaving a depression, as shown in the drawing, there are no depressions in which residual water could disadvantageously accumulate in the valve area. A return line (rinsing line) 8 branches off from the water distribution chamber 19 and, because of the remaining free ring chamber part of the water distribution chamber 19, is also in flow connection with the water supply line 17 when the closure body 21 is in the closed position. In this way it can be achieved that cleaning fluid can also flow through the inner cavities of the outlet valve 2, in particular in the case of a cleaning device of the type described above.

Der Verschlußkörper 21 durchsetzt den Ventilkörper 18 axial vollständig und ist an seinem wannenabgewandten Ende mit einem pneumatisch, hydraulisch oder magnetisch betätigbaren Kolben 24 verbunden. Durch die genannte axiale Betätigung des Kolbens 24 kann also der Verschlußkörper 21 leicht aus der dargestellten Verschlußstellung in eine Öffnungsstellung so weit nach unten verfahren werden, daß das über die Wasserzufuhrleitung 17 zugeführte Wasser aus dem Wasseraustrittskanal 20 in das Wanneninnere 5 austritt, wobei im dargestellten Falle auf den Ventilkörper 18 noch ein Düsenkörper 33 aufgesetzt ist, in welchem eine selbständige Erfindung verwirklicht ist, die in der DE-A-3 640 497 näher beschrieben wird.The closure body 21 passes completely axially through the valve body 18 and is connected at its end remote from the tub to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuable piston 24. By said axial actuation of the piston 24, the closure body 21 can thus be moved so far down from the illustrated closure position into an open position that the water supplied via the water supply line 17 emerges from the water outlet channel 20 into the tub interior 5, in the case shown a valve body 18 on the valve body 33 is set up, in which an independent invention is implemented, which is described in more detail in DE-A-3 640 497.

In dem Ventilkörper 18 und dem Ventilgehäuse 25 ist eine die Wasserverteilungskammer 19 ringförmig umgebende Luftverteilungskammer 26 angeordnet, in welche die Luftzufuhrleitung 27 mündet und von welcher ein den Wasseraustrittskanal 20 ringförmige umgebender Luftaustrittskanal 28 abzweigt. In dem Luftaustrittskanal 28 ist ein die Luftverteilungskammer 26 durchsetzender, hohlzylindrischer Absperrkörper 29 luft- und wasserdicht axial verstellbar geführt. Die wannenseitige Stirnfläche 30 des Absperrkörpers 29 fluchtet ebenfalls in Verschlußstellung mit der angrenzenden Stirnfläche 23 des Ventilkörpers 18 oder des Ventilgehäuses 25 eben oder überragt diese nur leicht kuppenförmig entsprechend der Darstellung, so daß sich auch hier in Verschlußstellung kein Wasser ansammeln kann. Der Absperrkörper 29 durchsetzt den Ventilkörper 18 ebenfalls axial vollständig und ist an seinem wannenseitigen Ende mit dem Kolben 24 verbunden, der seinerseits in dem Ventilgehäuse 25 axial geführt sein kann. Wasser- und Luftzufuhr werden so gesteuert, daß der Verschlußkörper 21 nur dann in Öffnungsstellung gebracht werden kann, wenn auch Luftdruck ansteht. Umgekehrt kann der Luftdruck nur dann abgestellt werden, wenn der Verschlußkörper 21 sich in Verschlußstellung befindet. Bei dem Austrittsventil 2 wird für relativ große Schließkräfte gesorgt, damit ein hermetischer Abschluß des Wanneninnenraumes 5 gegenüber dem Kreislaufsystem 4 in Verschlußstellung von Verschlußkörper 21 und Absperrkörper 29 immer sichergestellt ist.Arranged in the valve body 18 and the valve housing 25 is an air distribution chamber 26 which surrounds the water distribution chamber 19 in an annular manner, into which the air supply line 27 opens and from which an air outlet channel 28 which surrounds the water outlet channel 20 branches off. In the air outlet duct 28, a hollow cylindrical shut-off body 29 passing through the air distribution chamber 26 is axially adjustable in an air-tight and watertight manner. The tub-side end face 30 of the shut-off body 29 is also flush in the closed position with the adjacent end face 23 of the valve body 18 or the valve housing 25 or projects only slightly dome-shaped in accordance with the illustration, so that no water can accumulate here in the closed position. The shut-off body 29 also passes completely axially through the valve body 18 and is connected at its tub end to the piston 24, which in turn can be guided axially in the valve housing 25. Water and air supply are controlled so that the closure body 21 can only be brought into the open position when air pressure is also present. Conversely, the air pressure can only be switched off when the closure body 21 is in the closed position. Relatively large closing forces are provided in the outlet valve 2, so that a hermetic closure of the tub interior 5 with respect to the circulatory system 4 is always ensured in the closed position of the closure body 21 and shut-off body 29.

Die sich aus den Fig. 3a und 3b ergebende Ausgestaltung des Austrittsventils 2 funktioniert im Prinzip genauso, wie das Austrittsventil 2 nach Fig. 2. Lediglich die Zuordnung der einzelnen Teile, Leitungen und Kammern ist etwas verändert. Dichtungsringe sorgen für eine zuverlässige Abdichtung des Verschlußkörpers 21 und des Absperrkörpers 29 gegenüber dem Ventilkörper 18 bzw. dem Ventilgehäuse 25 in Verschlußstellung. In der linken Hälfte der zeichnerischen Darstellung der Fig. 3a und 3b ist jeweils die Öffnungsstellung für Wasserund Luftaustritt in den Wanneninnenraum 5, auf der jeweils rechten Seite die Verschlußstellung veranschaulicht, wobei jedoch ein Durchspülen des Ventilinnenraumes über die Spülleitung 8 ermöglicht ist.The configuration of the outlet valve 2 resulting from FIGS. 3a and 3b works in principle in exactly the same way as the outlet valve 2 according to FIG. 2. Only the assignment of the individual parts, lines and chambers is somewhat changed. Sealing rings ensure reliable sealing of the closure body 21 and the shut-off body 29 with respect to the valve body 18 and the valve housing 25 in the closed position. 3a and 3b each show the opening position for water and air outlet into the tub interior 5, on the right side in each case the closed position is illustrated, but flushing the valve interior via the flushing line 8 is made possible.

Claims (13)

  1. Cleaning apparatus for the pipe system of a whirlpool bath, having one or more outlet valves (2) for supplying water and/or air to the interior of the bath (1), which outlet valves (2) branch off from a circulation system (4) for the cleaning liquid, this circulation system (4) being independent of the interior (5) of the bath and having a feed pump (3), and which are provided with a sealing body (21) to bring the outlet valves (2) into a sealing position which is liquid-tight with respect to the interior (5) of the bath, for cleaning liquid to flow through, characterised in that a water supply pipe (17) branching off the circulation system (4) to the respective outlet valve (2) opens into a water distribution chamber (19) arranged in the valve body (18) of the outlet valve (2), from which chamber (19) a water outlet channel (20) branches off in the direction of the interior (5) of the bath, in that the sealing body (21) is arranged in the water outlet channel (20) and has a smaller cross section than the water distribution chamber (19) through which the sealing body (21) passes in an axially displaceable manner, in that the end (22) of the sealing body (21) on the bath side aligns flush in the sealing position with the adjacent end (23) of the valve body (18) or projects in a dome shape beyond this end (23), and in that, from the water distribution chamber (19), there branches off a return pipe (rinsing pipe) (8) which, in the sealing position of the sealing body (21), is linked to the flow of the water supply pipe (17).
  2. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, characterised in that the sealing body (21) axially passing completely through the valve body (18) is connected at its end facing away from the bath to a pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuated piston (24).
  3. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that, in the valve body (18) and/or the valve housing (25), there is arranged an air distribution chamber (26) into which an air supply pipe (27) opens and from which an air outlet channel (28) branches off, and in that, within the air outlet channel (26), there is guided, in an air-tight and water-tight, displaceable manner, a closure body (29) passing through the air distribution chamber (26), the end (30) of which closure body (29) on the bath side aligns flush in the sealing position with the adjacent end (23) of the valve body (18) or of the valve housing (25), or projects in a dome shape beyond this end (23).
  4. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, characterised in that the closure body (29) passing axially completely through the valve body (18) is connected at its end facing away from the bath to the pneumatically, hydraulically or magnetically actuated piston (24) also carrying the sealing body (21).
  5. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterised in that the piston (24) is guided axially within the valve housing (25).
  6. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the circulation system (4) has two substantially parallel branch pipes (6, 7), one of which is the flow pipe (6) from which the outlet valves (2) branch off, from which outlet valves (2) there open respective return pipes (rinsing pipes) (8) into the other branch pipe, which forms the return pipe (7).
  7. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, characterised in that, into the circulation system (4), preferably into the return pipe (7), there opens a fresh water pipe (9).
  8. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 7, characterised in that the fresh water pipe opens into a water tank (10), from which there branches off a connection pipe (11) to the circulation system (4).
  9. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterised in that, into the circulation system (4), preferably into the return pipe (7), there opens a cleaning agent supply pipe (13).
  10. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterised in that the circulation system (4), preferably at the point located the furthest away from the feed pump (3), is linked to the flow of the water discharge (12) from the bath (1).
  11. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterised in that the flow pipe (6) and the return pipe (7) are connected together at a distance by way of spacers (14).
  12. Cleaning apparatus according to claim 11, characterised in that the connecting sleeves (15) for the outlet valves (2), the return pipes (8), the fresh water pipe (9), the connection pipe (11) and/or the cleaning agent supply pipe (13) are formed in one piece on the spacers (14).
  13. Cleaning apparatus according to one of claims 6 to 12, characterised in that the spacers (14) have sleeve-shaped sections (16) through which the flow pipe (6) and/or the return pipe (7) are guided.
EP87114469A 1986-10-17 1987-10-03 Installation for cleaning the pipe system of a whirlpool and a whirl pool nozzle valve Expired - Lifetime EP0268050B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT87114469T ATE69157T1 (en) 1986-10-17 1987-10-03 CLEANING DEVICE FOR THE PIPE SYSTEM OF A WHIRLPOOL TUB AND OUTLET VALVE FOR WHIRLPOOL TUB.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE3635329 1986-10-17
DE19863635329 DE3635329A1 (en) 1986-10-17 1986-10-17 CLEANING DEVICE FOR THE PIPING SYSTEM OF A WHIRLPOOL TUB AND OUTLET VALVE FOR WHIRLPOOL TUB

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0268050A2 EP0268050A2 (en) 1988-05-25
EP0268050A3 EP0268050A3 (en) 1988-08-03
EP0268050B1 true EP0268050B1 (en) 1991-11-06

Family

ID=6311897

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP87114469A Expired - Lifetime EP0268050B1 (en) 1986-10-17 1987-10-03 Installation for cleaning the pipe system of a whirlpool and a whirl pool nozzle valve

Country Status (5)

Country Link
US (1) US4856125A (en)
EP (1) EP0268050B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE69157T1 (en)
DE (3) DE3635329A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2028017T3 (en)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0272601A2 (en) * 1986-12-23 1988-06-29 HOESCH Metall + Kunststoffwerk GmbH & Co. Bath with an air bubble system
EP0297246A1 (en) * 1987-05-06 1989-01-04 Günter Schüssler Water bath tub with air spray device, with lockable single jet nozzle and with circulation pipes
EP0311967A2 (en) * 1987-10-12 1989-04-19 Jacuzzi Europe Spa Improved hydromassage fitting with automatic closure
EP0379053A2 (en) * 1989-01-14 1990-07-25 Ucosan B.V. Method of operating a whirlpool tub, in particular for keeping the pipe system clean
EP0386423A2 (en) * 1989-03-07 1990-09-12 Ucosan B.V. Whirlpool bathtub or the like
EP0580265A1 (en) * 1992-07-23 1994-01-26 Pieter Johannes Van Ouwerkerk Whirlpool bath system
EP0613673B2 (en) 1993-03-04 2002-01-02 Ucosan B.V. Jet assembly for bathtub for producing air and/or waterjets

Families Citing this family (31)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3768870D1 (en) * 1986-07-07 1991-05-02 Thomas Kurt Fraenninge METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CLEANING THE PIPING OF A BATHING SYSTEM.
DE8717602U1 (en) 1986-07-07 1989-08-31 Fränninge, Thomas Kurt, Old Windsor, Berkshire Device for cleaning a pipe system at swimming pools
DE3644110A1 (en) * 1986-12-23 1988-07-07 Hoesch Metall & Kunststoffwerk Air nozzle for a bathtub with air bubble system and plastic bathtub with an integrated nozzle arrangement
DE3742432C2 (en) * 1987-12-15 2001-10-04 Hoesch Metall & Kunststoffwerk Swirl nozzle tub with drain fitting
DE3904886A1 (en) * 1988-02-17 1989-08-31 Kurt Stolz Bubbling bath tub
IT8846837A0 (en) * 1988-04-20 1988-04-20 Ideal Standard Spa SELF-CLEANING HYDROMASSAGE SYSTEM FOR BATHTUBS IN GENERAL
DE3824834A1 (en) * 1988-07-21 1990-01-25 Dueker Eisenwerk CLEANING DEVICE FOR THE PIPING SYSTEM OF A WHIRLPOOL TUB
DE3826001A1 (en) * 1988-07-30 1990-02-01 Buderus Kundenguss Device for flushing the pipeline system of a floor tub
DE3902117C1 (en) * 1989-01-25 1990-09-13 Guenter 6074 Roedermark De Schuessler
DE3903477A1 (en) * 1989-02-06 1990-08-09 Viegener Ii Fa Franz Mixing housing with rotatably mounted inlet nozzle for whirlpool tubs
US5178523A (en) * 1989-09-11 1993-01-12 Team Worldwide Corporation Auxiliary package for a bath-pool
US5109880A (en) * 1991-02-18 1992-05-05 Hydravac Corporation Portable whirlpool bathtub cleaner
DE4439050C2 (en) * 1993-11-02 2001-03-29 Kurt Michael Desch Combined bathtub inlet and overflow set
DE4429800C2 (en) * 1994-08-23 1997-12-04 Guenter Dipl Ing Wuschik Whirlpool system
DE19515959A1 (en) * 1994-11-02 1996-01-18 Desch Kurt Michael Combined inlet and overflow bathtub fitting
DE19509618A1 (en) * 1995-03-21 1996-09-26 Schuessler Guenter Hydromassage jet with swirl chamber
US5694957A (en) * 1995-07-17 1997-12-09 Lee, Jr.; Fred D. Spa cleaner
US5745933A (en) * 1996-11-12 1998-05-05 Yu; Li-Fu Pre-washing device for water circulating tube of massaging bath tub
DE29916068U1 (en) 1999-09-13 2000-03-09 Merz, Heiner, 70372 Stuttgart sink
US6659112B1 (en) 2002-07-18 2003-12-09 James C. Haupt Jetted bathtub air circulation line cleaning method
US6923206B2 (en) * 2002-10-28 2005-08-02 Brass Craft Manufacturing Company Excess flow valve with magnet
US6978792B1 (en) * 2002-12-30 2005-12-27 Strawbridge Joseph M Pump and conduit sterilizing system
US20050199274A1 (en) * 2004-03-10 2005-09-15 Abbott W.T. D. Method and apparatus for cleaning components of a water retaining device
US7182090B2 (en) 2004-03-10 2007-02-27 Abbott W T David System for cleaning components of a water retaining device, associated water retaining device, and water propulsion device for use therein
IL160861A0 (en) * 2004-03-14 2004-08-31 Amatzia Segal Adapter for use in cleaning a whirlpool tub piping system, and method therefor
US8453275B2 (en) * 2009-03-05 2013-06-04 May Manufacturing LLC Combination bathtub and spa
WO2011137490A1 (en) * 2010-05-07 2011-11-10 Quench Solutions Pty Ltd Sanitizing system
DE202011106651U1 (en) * 2011-10-12 2013-01-16 Viega Gmbh & Co. Kg Drain fitting with shuttle valve for whirlpool baths
ITTV20140170A1 (en) * 2014-12-18 2016-06-19 Jacuzzi Europe Spa BATHTUB WITH A HYDROMASSAGE CIRCUIT
US10233702B2 (en) * 2016-11-23 2019-03-19 Bauer Deep Drilling Gmbh Device and method for cleaning or lubricating of drill rod element and drilling rig
JP7318584B2 (en) * 2020-04-27 2023-08-01 三菱電機株式会社 Storage hot water heater

Family Cites Families (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH302791A (en) * 1951-11-20 1954-10-31 Waltert Sen Xaver Line system for the supply and discharge of a liquid into or from a container.
GB1015109A (en) * 1964-09-23 1965-12-31 Avy Lewis Miller Swimming pool
US3967323A (en) * 1974-12-31 1976-07-06 Serio Jeannette H Therapeutic constant flow bath
US4264039A (en) * 1977-12-20 1981-04-28 South Pacific Industries Aerator
FR2449644A1 (en) * 1979-02-20 1980-09-19 Kronenbourg Brasseries Connector for beer-barrel cleaning pipes - has branch passage with stop valve controlling supply from water mains
DE2940269C2 (en) * 1979-10-04 1983-10-20 Horst 6712 Bobenheim Haseloff Process for cleaning the bathing water in a hot tub system (whirlpool) that can be used in public areas and a suitable device
KR830002140Y1 (en) * 1980-06-24 1983-10-15 후지덴기 세이조오 가부시기 가이샤 Water Supply System Cleaning Circuit in Beverage Vending Machine
US4383341A (en) * 1981-04-02 1983-05-17 Murray Altman Bathtub self-cleaning system
US4527585A (en) * 1983-06-22 1985-07-09 Mirabile Paul J Automatic beverage tube cleaner
GB8400995D0 (en) * 1984-01-14 1984-02-15 James Ind Ltd Bath installations/tubs
DE3420714A1 (en) * 1984-06-02 1985-12-05 Eberhard Hoesch & Söhne Metall und Kunststoffwerk GmbH & Co, 5166 Kreuzau SWIVEL NOZZLE TUB WITH SYSTEM PRE-WASH
US4586204A (en) * 1984-09-24 1986-05-06 Daniels Phillip D Recirculating bathtub
DE3515139A1 (en) * 1985-04-26 1988-07-28 Guenter Schuessler Water basin with air bubble device

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0272601A2 (en) * 1986-12-23 1988-06-29 HOESCH Metall + Kunststoffwerk GmbH & Co. Bath with an air bubble system
EP0272601A3 (en) * 1986-12-23 1989-07-26 Hoesch Metall + Kunststoffwerk Gmbh & Co. Bath with an air bubble system
EP0297246A1 (en) * 1987-05-06 1989-01-04 Günter Schüssler Water bath tub with air spray device, with lockable single jet nozzle and with circulation pipes
EP0454177A1 (en) * 1987-05-06 1991-10-30 Schüssler, Günter Water bath tub with air spray line with stop valve in the suction line
EP0311967A2 (en) * 1987-10-12 1989-04-19 Jacuzzi Europe Spa Improved hydromassage fitting with automatic closure
EP0311967A3 (en) * 1987-10-12 1989-08-30 Jacuzzi Europe Spa Improved hydromassage fitting with automatic closure
EP0379053A2 (en) * 1989-01-14 1990-07-25 Ucosan B.V. Method of operating a whirlpool tub, in particular for keeping the pipe system clean
EP0379053A3 (en) * 1989-01-14 1990-11-14 Ucosan B.V. Method of operating a whirlpool tub, in particular for keeping the pipe system clean
EP0386423A2 (en) * 1989-03-07 1990-09-12 Ucosan B.V. Whirlpool bathtub or the like
EP0386423A3 (en) * 1989-03-07 1991-02-27 Ucosan B.V. Whirlpool bathtub or the like
EP0580265A1 (en) * 1992-07-23 1994-01-26 Pieter Johannes Van Ouwerkerk Whirlpool bath system
EP0613673B2 (en) 1993-03-04 2002-01-02 Ucosan B.V. Jet assembly for bathtub for producing air and/or waterjets

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE3635329C2 (en) 1990-02-08
DE8627706U1 (en) 1987-09-03
ATE69157T1 (en) 1991-11-15
US4856125A (en) 1989-08-15
DE3774396D1 (en) 1991-12-12
EP0268050A2 (en) 1988-05-25
EP0268050A3 (en) 1988-08-03
ES2028017T3 (en) 1992-07-01
DE3635329A1 (en) 1988-04-28

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0268050B1 (en) Installation for cleaning the pipe system of a whirlpool and a whirl pool nozzle valve
EP0320696B2 (en) Whirlpool bath with automatic pre-rinsing system
DE3447772A1 (en) METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DISINFECTING THE CIRCUIT SYSTEM OF A WHIRLPOOL BATHTUB
EP0164068B1 (en) Whirlpool with a pre-rinsing system
EP2986787A1 (en) Toilet with personal shower integrated into flushing water distributor
DE3745024C2 (en) Air-water bubble bath tub
DE102008004258A1 (en) Household-washing machine, has dispensing pipelines, outlets, circulating pipeline, circulating pump, two way-valve, cylinder, piston and spring, which are provided to remove deposits of washing agent residues by supplying additional water
DE3715010C2 (en) Water basin with aerator
DE2454365A1 (en) CONTROL VALVE FOR WATER TREATMENT PLANTS
DE4226685A1 (en) Overflow fitting for bath or shower tub - has cover rosette whose through aperture has side spacing from axis of pipe coupler opening
DE3901044C2 (en) Process for keeping a whirlpool tub piping clean
EP0351813B1 (en) Cleaning device for the piping system of a whirlpool bath
DE69429638T2 (en) Process and plant for cleaning and / or disinfecting a hydromassage system
DE4306785C2 (en) Tub, in particular sanitary tub, with whirlpool device
DE3826001A1 (en) Device for flushing the pipeline system of a floor tub
DE9215876U1 (en) Device for rinsing and/or disinfecting care utensils
DE3347003A1 (en) Device for cleaning pipes, in particular delivery lines for draught drinks
DE29708942U1 (en) Rinsing and disinfection device for care dishes, such as Bed pans, urine bottles or the like.
DE4306782A1 (en) Whirlpool bath tub
EP0386423B1 (en) Whirlpool bathtub or the like
DE3345582A1 (en) Water reservoir, in particular for a softener device in dish-washing machines
DE4230094A1 (en) Modular neutralisation unit for effluent treatment - which is self contained to prevent leakage of treatment materials to the surrounding environment
DE2706925A1 (en) Bottling plant bottle washing stage - has flow of washing fluid and compressed gas controlled by float inside bottle
DE8817131U1 (en) WATER BASIN WITH A FLOW SYSTEM AND A HOLDING VALVE IN THE SAVE PIPE
DE4237831A1 (en) Rinsing medium flow control for milking installation lines - has control device with opposite milking lines in one plane, and opposite lines in plane offset by 90 deg.

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB IT LI LU NL

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB IT LI LU NL

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19880906

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19900508

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH DE ES FR GB IT LI LU NL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Effective date: 19911106

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 69157

Country of ref document: AT

Date of ref document: 19911115

Kind code of ref document: T

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 3774396

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19911212

ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed
GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)
ET Fr: translation filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2028017

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 19920908

Year of fee payment: 6

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 19920921

Year of fee payment: 6

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: AT

Effective date: 19921003

26N No opposition filed
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 19921031

Ref country code: LI

Effective date: 19921031

Ref country code: CH

Effective date: 19921031

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 19921031

Year of fee payment: 6

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 19921031

Year of fee payment: 6

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 19921222

Year of fee payment: 6

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Effective date: 19931003

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF THE APPLICANT RENOUNCES

Effective date: 19931004

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Effective date: 19940501

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 19931003

NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee
PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Effective date: 19940630

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Effective date: 19940701

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FD2A

Effective date: 19991007

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES;WARNING: LAPSES OF ITALIAN PATENTS WITH EFFECTIVE DATE BEFORE 2007 MAY HAVE OCCURRED AT ANY TIME BEFORE 2007. THE CORRECT EFFECTIVE DATE MAY BE DIFFERENT FROM THE ONE RECORDED.

Effective date: 20051003