EP0722707B1 - Control device for a whirlpool bath - Google Patents

Control device for a whirlpool bath Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0722707B1
EP0722707B1 EP96100028A EP96100028A EP0722707B1 EP 0722707 B1 EP0722707 B1 EP 0722707B1 EP 96100028 A EP96100028 A EP 96100028A EP 96100028 A EP96100028 A EP 96100028A EP 0722707 B1 EP0722707 B1 EP 0722707B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
operating unit
control device
frame
fact
whirlpool
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
EP96100028A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0722707A1 (en
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Altura Leiden Holding BV
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Altura Leiden Holding BV
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Publication of EP0722707A1 publication Critical patent/EP0722707A1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL 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
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/60—Components specifically designed for the therapeutic baths of groups A61H33/00
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL 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
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/005—Electrical circuits therefor
    • A61H2033/0054—Electrical circuits therefor with liquid level detectors
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL 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
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/005—Electrical circuits therefor
    • A61H2033/0058—Electrical circuits therefor controlled by the user
    • A61H2033/0079—Electrical circuits therefor controlled by the user using remote control signal transmission devices, e.g. ultrasonic, infrared
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL 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
    • A61H33/00—Bathing devices for special therapeutic or hygienic purposes
    • A61H33/02—Bathing devices for use with gas-containing liquid, or liquid in which gas is led or generated, e.g. carbon dioxide baths

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a control device for a whirlpool according to the features specified in the preamble of claim 1.
  • Such a control device is known from DE-A-41 08 566, which for controlling the water and / or air supply nozzles of a bathtub serve, where appropriate also other functions, such as intensity of a circulation pump or underwater lighting can be controlled.
  • This control device contains a handheld designed as a remote control device Control unit with buttons, which one with the functional elements to be controlled associated stationary receiving diode is assigned.
  • Control unit with buttons, which one with the functional elements to be controlled associated stationary receiving diode is assigned.
  • For the control unit there is a stationary device storage on the edge of the bathtub provided with the receiving diode, which is connected to a diode of the control unit is aligned.
  • the stationary device shelf is permanently on the edge of the bathtub arranged and exposed to external influences.
  • control device to further develop in such a way that reliable handling is guaranteed is.
  • the control device is intended to be compact and user-friendly Have a structure and meet the requirements of practice.
  • the control device proposed according to the invention contains the operating unit, which, especially with regard to the tub rim, if necessary a first retracted position and further to a second extended position is movable.
  • the control unit can either be installed in an intermediate floor, which is between the edge of the tub and a room wall is arranged in the horizontal direction or in a vertical Wall, be it a room wall or an intermediate wall or a room divider become.
  • the control unit contains the buttons for controlling the desired functions of the whirlpool and is independent of each assumed position connected to the tub, so that an unintentional Laying the control unit or falling into the water of the Whir1 pool be avoided. It is a frame with guide elements for the Control unit provided.
  • the frame with the control unit and the Guide elements is a pre-assembled unit, and can be assigned in an Recess in the tub rim, preferably largely flush with the surface, to be assembled.
  • the frame with the control unit correspondingly with the intermediate floor, the room divider or the like in an associated recess, preferably largely flush to mount.
  • the operating unit with the keypad is particularly expedient depending on the water level in the tub from the frame and thus Can be pulled out over the edge of the tub or retracted into the frame.
  • a water level sensor is arranged on the tub, which at Reaching a predeterminable water level in the tub Operating unit causes and / or when falling below a predetermined Water level a signal to move the control unit back into the frame emits.
  • Fig. 1 shows an operating unit 2 with a keypad 4, which a number of keys 6, symbols 8 and displays 10 for each to be controlled Features of the spa.
  • the keypad 4 is in a housing 12 arranged, which with respect to a frame 14 by means of guide elements 16, which preferably contain a guide rod here, in the direction of an arrow 18 is arranged movably.
  • the control device is in a recess 20 of an edge 22 Whirlpools arranged.
  • the frame 14 has a front plate 23 at the top a surface 24 and lies with a narrow edge 26 on the upper edge 28 of the tub rim 22. Apart from the low height of the edge 26 lies the surface 24 is essentially flush with the upper edge 28 of the edge of the whirlpool 22.
  • the control unit 2 is in its first, retracted position shown, in which the upper front surface 30 of the control unit 2 also essentially flush with the surface 24 and / or the upper edge 28 the edge 22 of the whirlpool.
  • the operating unit 2 is arranged on a carrier 32, which with respect the guide elements 16 can also be moved linearly in the direction of the arrow 18 is. As can be seen, this is on the side of the operating unit 2 on one side provided as a preferably cylindrical rod guide element 16, which of a guide body 34 connected to the carrier 32 is surrounded.
  • the guide body 34 contains a number of balls, which smooth movement with respect to the rod or the guide element 16 allows.
  • On the other side of the frame 14 is a threaded rod 36 rotatably anode, which cooperates with a gear element 38.
  • This gear element 38 preferably contains one with the threaded rod 36 corresponding threaded nut and is fixed to the carrier 32 mentioned connected.
  • the control unit 2 By turning the threaded rod 36, the control unit 2 in Moved out of the frame 14 in the direction of arrow 18 into the second position or after changing the direction of rotation of the threaded rod 36 again be moved back to the first position shown.
  • a small electric motor 40 is provided, which over a belt drive 42 is in operative connection with the threaded spindle 36.
  • the Motor 40 is designed as a small micromotor and on a holder 44 stored, which is fixed to the frame 14.
  • the bracket 44 is also for fastening the guide element 16 and receiving a bearing 46 formed for the threaded spindle 36.
  • At the top ends are the guide rod 16 and the threaded spindle 36 in the upper front plate 23 of the frame 14 attached, or rotatably mounted by means of a second bearing 47.
  • the release of the control unit can according to the invention manually or electrically or electromechanically, for example by means of switches, relays or other controllable locking means, respectively.
  • the control unit 2 can be sunk manually Push the control unit 2 into the frame 14 or likewise by means of an electrical control.
  • the electrical is carried out by means of a cable 50 Connection of the control unit 2 and the motor 40 or the other electrical control means with an electrical not shown here Control unit.
  • the operating unit 2 is around the carrier 32 by means of a bearing 52 a longitudinal axis 54 is rotatably arranged.
  • the bearing 52 is designed and arranged that the control unit in the extended second position 2 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 54.
  • a user can in the said second Turn the control unit 2 with respect to the tub rim as required.
  • the carrier 32 is in a particularly useful manner according to the Recess 20 formed in the upper front panel 48 and can be in this partially drive in.
  • Fig. 2 shows a plan view of the control device, the one in the recess 20 of the upper front panel 23 recessed control unit 2 can be seen are.
  • the operating unit 2 is in the retracted first position only the end face 13 accessible to a user, this end face 13 essentially flush with the surface 24 of the front plate 48 and / or the upper edge 28 of the tub rim 26 is located.
  • the housing 12 of the Operating unit 2 has two longitudinal edges which are essentially parallel to one another 56, 57, which are at a distance 58 of only a few cm from one another.
  • the front plate 23 of the frame 14 has two long sides 60, 61, which preferably parallel to one another and / or to the longitudinal edges 56, 57 of the Operating unit run.
  • the front panel 23 has a width 62 and one Length 64, which is greater than the width 62 by a predetermined factor.
  • This factor of the length-width ratio is expediently between 3 and 7, preferably between 4 to 6, and in particular is essentially 5.
  • the Control device according to the invention is thus quite narrow and can easily be placed on top of very narrow tub edges.
  • the width 52 is 3.5 cm, while the length 64 is 17 cm. Because of the small dimensions of the front panel and / or the frame 14 ensures problem-free assembly.
  • a water level sensor 66 is provided, which is arranged at a suitable height on the wall 68 of the whirlpool.
  • This sensor 66 is preferably an inductive or capacitive sensor formed, which is arranged on the outside of the tub rim.
  • the Water level sensor 66 is connected to the control unit mentioned and indicates in An electrical signal depending on the water level. Will be in the tub Water is admitted, a contact and / or a signal is made by means of sensor 66 triggered by which the extension of the control unit 2 is controlled becomes. The control unit is moved upwards out of the frame 14 extended that its lower edge over the surface 24 of the front panel 23rd located.
  • the operating unit 2 can now in this second position rotated about the longitudinal axis 54 in the desired manner by a user become. If the water is drained from the tub, the water level sensor is used 66 in turn a contact and / or signal given to the control unit 2 drive back. The operating unit is only retracted then possible if they refer to the zero position shown in the drawing the longitudinal axis 54 has taken. Therefore, in an appropriate manner Angle sensor provided, which the current angular position of the control unit 2 with respect to the frame and / or with respect to the carrier 32. This angle sensor is also connected to the electrical control unit.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Epidemiology (AREA)
  • Pain & Pain Management (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Therapy (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Animal Behavior & Ethology (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Veterinary Medicine (AREA)
  • Devices For Medical Bathing And Washing (AREA)
  • Control Of Positive-Displacement Air Blowers (AREA)
  • Structures Of Non-Positive Displacement Pumps (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
  • Accommodation For Nursing Or Treatment Tables (AREA)

Abstract

The appts. includes an operating unit (2) with keys (6) to control at least one function of the whirlpool. The operating unit (2) is arranged to be movable relative to the whirlpool, particularly relative to its edge (22). The operating unit (2) can be moved into a first, lowered position and into a second, raised position. The unit (2) may be moved on a frame (14) with guide elements (16). The frame (14) may be inserted into a recess (20) eg. in the edge (22) of the whirlpool. The operating unit (2) may be arranged on a linearly movable carrier (32). The carrier is arranged such that the unit (2) selectively takes up the first or the second position. The unit (2) may also be arranged rotatably on the carrier (32) and/or may be arranged to pivot relative to the frame (14), about an axis parallel to the guide elements (16). A sensor may be provided to detect the angle of the operating unit (2) relative to the pool, the frame and/or the carrier.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf eine Steuerungseinrichtung für einen Whirlpool gemäß den im Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 angegebenen Merkmalen.The invention relates to a control device for a whirlpool according to the features specified in the preamble of claim 1.

Aus der DE-A-41 08 566 ist eine derartige Steuerungseinrichtung bekannt, welche zur Steuerung der Wasser- und/oder Luft-Zufuhrdüsen einer Badewanne dienen, wobei ggfs. auch weitere Funktionen, wie Intensität einer Umwälzpumpe oder eine Unterwasserbeleuchtung gesteuert werden können. Diese Steuerungseinrichtung enthält eine in die Hand zu nehmendes als Fernsteuergerät ausgebildete Bedienungseinheit mit Tasten, welchem eine mit den zu steuernden Funktionselementen in Verbindung stehende stationäre Empfangsdiode zugeordnet ist. Für die Bedienungseinheit ist am Badewannenrand eine stationäre Geräteablage mit der Empfangsdiode vorgesehen, welche auf eine Diode der Bedienungseinheit ausgerichtet ist. Die stationäre Geräteablage ist dauerhaft auf dem Badewannenrand angeordnet und äußeren Einwirkungen ausgesetzt. Selbst bei Nichtbenutzung des Whirlpools besteht die Gefahr von Beschädigungen beispielsweise durch Handtücher, Bademäntel oder dergleichen, welche unachtsam auf die Steuerungseinrichtung gelegt und/oder von dieser entfernt werden. Bei Benutzung des Whirlpools kann die Bedienungseinheit aus der Hand gleiten und ins Wasser fallen, wodurch zusätzliche Sicherheitsmaßnahmen notwendig sind und/ oder die Funktionsfähigkeit des Whirlpools in Frage gestellt ist.Such a control device is known from DE-A-41 08 566, which for controlling the water and / or air supply nozzles of a bathtub serve, where appropriate also other functions, such as intensity of a circulation pump or underwater lighting can be controlled. This control device contains a handheld designed as a remote control device Control unit with buttons, which one with the functional elements to be controlled associated stationary receiving diode is assigned. For the control unit there is a stationary device storage on the edge of the bathtub provided with the receiving diode, which is connected to a diode of the control unit is aligned. The stationary device shelf is permanently on the edge of the bathtub arranged and exposed to external influences. Even when not in use there is a risk of damage to the whirlpool, for example Towels, bathrobes or the like, which carelessly affect the control device placed and / or removed from this. When using the Whirlpools can slide the control unit out of your hand and into the water fall, which means that additional security measures are necessary and / or Functionality of the whirlpool is questioned.

Hiervon ausgehend liegt der Erfindung die Aufgabe zugrunde, die Steuereinrichtung dahingehend weiterzubilden, daß eine funktionssichere Handhabung gewährleistet ist. Die Steuerungseinrichtung soll einen kompakten und benutzerfreundlichen Aufbau aufweisen und den Anforderungen der Praxis entsprechen.Proceeding from this, the object of the invention is the control device to further develop in such a way that reliable handling is guaranteed is. The control device is intended to be compact and user-friendly Have a structure and meet the requirements of practice.

Die Lösung dieser Aufgabe erfolgt bei einer Steuerungseinrichtung der genannten Art gemäß den kennzeichnenden Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1.This problem is solved with a control device of the named Kind according to the characterizing features of claim 1.

Die erfindungsgemäß vorgeschlagene Steuerungseinrichtung enthält die Bedienungseinheit, welche, insbesondere bezüglich des Wannenrandes, bedarfsweise in eine erste versenkte Position und ferner in eine zweite herausgefahrene Position verfahrbar ist. Die Bedienungseinheit kann entweder in einem Zwischenboden eingebaut werden, welcher zwischen dem Wannenrand und einer Raumwand in horizontaler Richtung angeordnet ist oder in einer vertikalen Wand, sei es eine Raumwand oder eine Zwischenwand oder ein Raumteiler, angeordnet werden. Die Bedienungseinheit enthält die Tasten zur Steuerung der gewünschten Funktionen des Whirlpools und ist unabhängig von der jeweils eingenommenen Position mit der Wanne verbunden, so daß ein unbeabsichtigtes Verlegen der Bedienungseinheit oder das Hineinfallen in das Wasser des Whir1-pools vermieden werden. Es ist ein Rahmen mit Führungselementen für die Bedienungseinheit vorgesehen. Der Rahmen mit der Bedienungseinheit und den Führungselementen ist eine vormontierte Baueinheit, und kann in einer zugeordneten Ausnehmung des Wannenrandes, vorzugsweise weitgehend flächenbündig, montiert werden. In den eingangs erwähnten alternativen Ausführungsformen ist der Rahmen mit der Bedienungseinheit entsprechend mit dem Zwischenboden, dem Raumteiler oder dergleichen in einer zugeordneten Ausnehmung, vorzugsweise weitgehend flächenbündig, zu montieren.The control device proposed according to the invention contains the operating unit, which, especially with regard to the tub rim, if necessary a first retracted position and further to a second extended position is movable. The control unit can either be installed in an intermediate floor, which is between the edge of the tub and a room wall is arranged in the horizontal direction or in a vertical Wall, be it a room wall or an intermediate wall or a room divider become. The control unit contains the buttons for controlling the desired functions of the whirlpool and is independent of each assumed position connected to the tub, so that an unintentional Laying the control unit or falling into the water of the Whir1 pool be avoided. It is a frame with guide elements for the Control unit provided. The frame with the control unit and the Guide elements is a pre-assembled unit, and can be assigned in an Recess in the tub rim, preferably largely flush with the surface, to be assembled. In the alternative embodiments mentioned in the introduction the frame with the control unit correspondingly with the intermediate floor, the room divider or the like in an associated recess, preferably largely flush to mount.

In besonders zweckmäßiger Weise ist die Bedienungseinheit mit dem Tastenfeld in Abhängigkeit vom Wasserstand in der Wanne aus dem Rahmen und somit über den Wannenrand herausfahrbar bzw. in den Rahmen wieder versenkbar. The operating unit with the keypad is particularly expedient depending on the water level in the tub from the frame and thus Can be pulled out over the edge of the tub or retracted into the frame.

Hierzu ist an der Wanne ein Wasserstandssensor angeordnet, welcher beim Erreichen eines vorgebbaren Wasserstands der Wanne das Herausfahren der Bedienungseinheit veranlaßt und/oder beim Unterschreiten eines vorgebbaren Wasserstandes ein Signal zum Zurückfahren der Bedienungseinheit in den Rahmen abgibt.For this purpose, a water level sensor is arranged on the tub, which at Reaching a predeterminable water level in the tub Operating unit causes and / or when falling below a predetermined Water level a signal to move the control unit back into the frame emits.

Weiterbildungen und besondere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen sowie der nachfolgenden Beschreibung angegeben.Further developments and special refinements of the invention are in the Subclaims and the description below.

Die Erfindung wird nachfolgend anhand des in der Zeichnung dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiels näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische Darstellung der Steuerungseinrichtung,
Fig. 2
eine Aufsicht von oben auf die Steuerungseinrichtung gemäß Fig. 1
The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiment shown in the drawing. Show it:
Fig. 1
a schematic representation of the control device,
Fig. 2
a top view of the control device according to FIG. 1

Fig. 1 zeigt eine Bedienungseinheit 2 mit einem Tastenfeld 4, welches eine Anzahl von Tasten 6, Symbolen 8 sowie Anzeigen 10 für die jeweils zu steuernden Funktionen des Whirlpools aufweist. Das Tastenfeld 4 ist in einem Gehäuse 12 angeordnet, welches bezüglich eines Rahmens 14 mittels Führungselementen 16, welche hier bevorzugt eine Führungsstange enthalten, in Richtung eines Pfeiles 18 bewegbar angeordnet ist.Fig. 1 shows an operating unit 2 with a keypad 4, which a number of keys 6, symbols 8 and displays 10 for each to be controlled Features of the spa. The keypad 4 is in a housing 12 arranged, which with respect to a frame 14 by means of guide elements 16, which preferably contain a guide rod here, in the direction of an arrow 18 is arranged movably.

Die Steuerungseinrichtung ist in einer Ausnehmung 20 eines Randes 22 eines Whirlpools angeordnet. Der Rahmen 14 besitzt oben eine Frontplatte 23 mit einer Oberfläche 24 und liegt mit einem schmalen Rand 26 auf der Oberkante 28 des Wannenrandes 22 auf. Abgesehen von der geringen Höhe des Randes 26 liegt die Oberläche 24 im wesentlichen bündig mit der Oberkante 28 des Whirlpoolrandes 22. Die Bedienungseinheit 2 ist in ihrer ersten, eingefahrenen Position dargestellt, in welcher die obere Frontfläche 30 der Bedienungseinheit 2 gleichfalls im wesentlichen bündig mit der Oberfläche 24 und/oder der Oberkante 28 des Randes 22 des Whirlpools liegt. The control device is in a recess 20 of an edge 22 Whirlpools arranged. The frame 14 has a front plate 23 at the top a surface 24 and lies with a narrow edge 26 on the upper edge 28 of the tub rim 22. Apart from the low height of the edge 26 lies the surface 24 is essentially flush with the upper edge 28 of the edge of the whirlpool 22. The control unit 2 is in its first, retracted position shown, in which the upper front surface 30 of the control unit 2 also essentially flush with the surface 24 and / or the upper edge 28 the edge 22 of the whirlpool.

Die Bedienungseinheit 2 ist auf einem Träger 32 angeordnet, welcher bezüglich den Führungselementen 16 gleichfalls in Richtung des Pfeiles 18 linear bewegbar ist. Wie ersichtlich, ist seitlich der Bedienungseinheit 2 auf der einen Seite das als eine vorzugsweise zylindrische Stange ausgebildete Führungselement 16 vorgesehen, welches von einem mit dem Träger 32 verbundenen Führungskörper 34 umgeben ist. Der Führungskörper 34 enthält eine Anzahl von Kugeln, welche eine leichtgängige Bewegbarkeit bezüglich der Stange bzw. des Führungselementes 16 ermöglicht. Auf der anderen Seite des Rahmens 14 ist eine Gewindestange 36 drehbar angeodnet, welche mit einem Getriebeelement 38 zusammenwirkt. Dieses Getriebeelement 38 enthält vorzugsweise eine mit der Gewindestange 36 korrespondierende Gewindemutter und ist mit dem genannten Träger 32 fest verbunden. Durch Drehen der Gewindestange 36 kann die Bedienungseinheit 2 in Richtung des Pfeiles 18 aus dem Rahmen 14 in die zweite Position herausgefahren werden oder nach Änderung der Drehrichtung der Gewindestange 36 wieder in die dargestellte erste Position zurückgefahren werden. Zur Drehung der Gewindestange 36 ist ein kleiner elektrischer Motor 40 vorgesehen, welcher über einen Riementrieb 42 mit der Gewindespindel 36 in Wirkverbindung steht. Der Motor 40 ist als kleiner Mikromotor ausgebildet und auf einer Halterung 44 gelagert, welche mit dem Rahmen 14 fest verbunden ist. Die Halterung 44 ist ferner zur Befestigung des Führungselements 16 und Aufnahme eines Lagers 46 für die Gewindespindel 36 ausgebildet. An den oberen Enden sind die Führungsstange 16 sowie die Gewindespindel 36 in der oberen Frontplatte 23 des Rahmens 14 befestigt, bzw. mittels eines zweiten Lagers 47 drehbar gelagert.The operating unit 2 is arranged on a carrier 32, which with respect the guide elements 16 can also be moved linearly in the direction of the arrow 18 is. As can be seen, this is on the side of the operating unit 2 on one side provided as a preferably cylindrical rod guide element 16, which of a guide body 34 connected to the carrier 32 is surrounded. The guide body 34 contains a number of balls, which smooth movement with respect to the rod or the guide element 16 allows. On the other side of the frame 14 is a threaded rod 36 rotatably anode, which cooperates with a gear element 38. This gear element 38 preferably contains one with the threaded rod 36 corresponding threaded nut and is fixed to the carrier 32 mentioned connected. By turning the threaded rod 36, the control unit 2 in Moved out of the frame 14 in the direction of arrow 18 into the second position or after changing the direction of rotation of the threaded rod 36 again be moved back to the first position shown. For rotating the threaded rod 36, a small electric motor 40 is provided, which over a belt drive 42 is in operative connection with the threaded spindle 36. The Motor 40 is designed as a small micromotor and on a holder 44 stored, which is fixed to the frame 14. The bracket 44 is also for fastening the guide element 16 and receiving a bearing 46 formed for the threaded spindle 36. At the top ends are the guide rod 16 and the threaded spindle 36 in the upper front plate 23 of the frame 14 attached, or rotatably mounted by means of a second bearing 47.

Anstelle der hier dargestellten besonderen Ausbildung der Antriebseinheit mit dem Motor 40 und der Gewindespindel 36 können im Rahmen der Erfindung auch andere Hubeinrichtungen oder Betätigungseinrichtungen zum Bewegen der Bedienungseinheit 2 aus der dargestellten ersten Position in die aus dem Rahmen 14 nach oben heraus gefahrene zweite Position vorgesehen sein. So können zum Beispiel zwischen dem Träger 32 und der Halterung 44 Federn angeordnet sein, wie es mittels strichpunktierten Linien 48 angedeutet ist. In der eingefahrenen Position sind die Federn 40 zusammengedrückt, wobei mittels Sperrklinken oder ähnlichem eine Arretierung der Bedienungseinheit 2 vorgenommen wird. Durch Lösen der Sperrklinken oder sonstigen Arretierungsmitteln kann durch die vorgespannen Federn der Träger 32 und/oder die Bedienungseinheit 2 nach oben in der erforderlichen Weise herausgefahren werden. Das Lösen der Bedienungseinheit kann erfindungsgemäß manuell oder elektrisch bzw. elektromechanisch, beispielsweise mittels Schaltern, Relais oder sonstigen steuerbaren Verriegelungsmitteln, erfolgen. Das Versenken der Bedienungseinheit 2 kann manuell durch Einschieben der Bedienungseinheit 2 in den Rahmen 14 oder gleichfalls mittels einer elektrischen Steuerung erfolgen. Mittels eines Kabels 50 erfolgt die elektrische Verbindung der Bedienungseinheit 2 sowie des Motors 40 oder der anderen elektrischen Steuerungsmittel mit einer hier nicht weiter dargestellten elektrischen Steuereinheit.Instead of the special design of the drive unit shown here with the motor 40 and the threaded spindle 36 can be used within the scope of the invention also other lifting devices or actuating devices for moving the Operating unit 2 from the first position shown in the out of the frame 14 second position moved out upwards can be provided. So for Example, springs 44 can be arranged between the carrier 32 and the holder, as indicated by dash-dotted lines 48. In the retracted Position, the springs 40 are compressed, by means of pawls or Similar a locking of the control unit 2 is made. By Loosening the pawls or other locking means can by the pre-tensioned Springs of the carrier 32 and / or the control unit 2 upwards in the necessary way out. The release of the control unit can according to the invention manually or electrically or electromechanically, for example by means of switches, relays or other controllable locking means, respectively. The control unit 2 can be sunk manually Push the control unit 2 into the frame 14 or likewise by means of an electrical control. The electrical is carried out by means of a cable 50 Connection of the control unit 2 and the motor 40 or the other electrical control means with an electrical not shown here Control unit.

Die Bedienungseinheit 2 ist bezüglich des Trägers 32 mittels eines Lagers 52 um eine Längsachse 54 drehbar angeordnet. Das Lager 52 ist derart ausgebildet und angeordnet, daß in der herausgefahrenen zweiten Position die Bedienungseinheit 2 um die Längsachse 54 drehbar ist. Ein Benutzer kann in der genannten zweiten Position nach Bedarf die Bedienungseinheit 2 bezüglich des Wannenrandes verdrehen. Der Träger 32 ist in besonders zweckmäßiger Weise entsprechend der Ausnehmung 20 in der oberen Frontplatte 48 ausgebildet und kann in diese teilweise hineinfahren. Bei Benutzung der Bedienungseinheit 2 in der zweiten Position auftretende Kräfte oder Momente werden damit in zweckmäßiger Weise unmittelbar auf die Frontplatte 23 und den Rahmen übertragen und von dem Führungselement 16 und/oder der Gewindestange 36 ferngehalten.The operating unit 2 is around the carrier 32 by means of a bearing 52 a longitudinal axis 54 is rotatably arranged. The bearing 52 is designed and arranged that the control unit in the extended second position 2 is rotatable about the longitudinal axis 54. A user can in the said second Turn the control unit 2 with respect to the tub rim as required. The carrier 32 is in a particularly useful manner according to the Recess 20 formed in the upper front panel 48 and can be in this partially drive in. When using the control unit 2 in the second Forces or moments occurring in the position are thus expedient directly transferred to the front panel 23 and the frame and from that Guide element 16 and / or the threaded rod 36 kept away.

Fig. 2 zeigt eine Aufsicht auf die Steuerungseinrichtung, wobei die in der Ausnehmung 20 der oberen Frontplatte 23 versenkte Bedienungseinheit 2 zu erkennen sind. In der zurückgefahrenen ersten Position der Bedienungseinheit 2 ist lediglich die Stirnfläche 13 für einen Benutzer zugänglich, wobei diese Stirnfläche 13 im wesentlichen flächenbündig mit der Oberfläche 24 der Frontplatte 48 und/oder der Oberkante 28 des Wannenrandes 26 liegt. Das Gehäuse 12 der Bedienungseinheit 2 besitzt zwei zueinander im wesentlichen parallele Längskanten 56, 57, welche zueinander einen Abstand 58 von nur wenigen cm aufweisen. Die Frontplatte 23 des Rahmens 14 weist zwei Längsseiten 60, 61 auf, welche vorzugsweise parallel zueinander und/oder zu den Längskanten 56, 57 der Bedienungseinheit verlaufen. Die Frontplatte 23 besitzt eine Breite 62 und eine Länge 64, welche um einen vorgegebenen Faktor größer als die Breite 62 ist. Dieser Faktor des Längen-Breitenverhältnisses liegt zweckmäßig zwischen 3 bis 7, vorzugsweise zwischen 4 bis 6, und beträgt insbesondere im wesentlichen 5. Die erfindungsgemäße Steuerungseinrichtung ist somit recht schmal ausgebildet und kann problemlos oben selbst auf sehr schmale Wannenränder angeordnet werden. In einem besonderen Ausführungsbeispiel beträgt die Breite 52 3,5 cm, während die Länge 64 17 cm groß ist. Aufgrund derart kleiner Abmessungen der Frontplatte und/oder des Rahmens 14 ist eine problemlose Montage gewährleistet.Fig. 2 shows a plan view of the control device, the one in the recess 20 of the upper front panel 23 recessed control unit 2 can be seen are. The operating unit 2 is in the retracted first position only the end face 13 accessible to a user, this end face 13 essentially flush with the surface 24 of the front plate 48 and / or the upper edge 28 of the tub rim 26 is located. The housing 12 of the Operating unit 2 has two longitudinal edges which are essentially parallel to one another 56, 57, which are at a distance 58 of only a few cm from one another. The front plate 23 of the frame 14 has two long sides 60, 61, which preferably parallel to one another and / or to the longitudinal edges 56, 57 of the Operating unit run. The front panel 23 has a width 62 and one Length 64, which is greater than the width 62 by a predetermined factor. This factor of the length-width ratio is expediently between 3 and 7, preferably between 4 to 6, and in particular is essentially 5. The Control device according to the invention is thus quite narrow and can easily be placed on top of very narrow tub edges. In a special embodiment, the width 52 is 3.5 cm, while the length 64 is 17 cm. Because of the small dimensions of the front panel and / or the frame 14 ensures problem-free assembly.

In einer besonderen Ausgestaltung ist ein Wasserstandssensor 66 vorgesehen, welcher an der Wand 68 des Whirlpools in geeigneter Höhe angeordnet ist. Dieser Sensor 66 ist vorzugsweise als ein induktiver oder kapazitiver Sensor ausgebildet, welcher an der Außenseite des Wannenrandes angeordnet ist. Der Wasserstandssensor 66 ist mit der erwähnten Steuereinheit verbunden und gibt in Abhängigkeit des Wasserstandes ein elektrisches Signal. Wird in die Wanne Wasser eingelassen, wird mittels des Sensors 66 ein Kontakt und/oder ein Signal ausgelöst, durch welches das Herausfahren der Bedienungseinheit 2 gesteuert wird. Die Bedienungseinheit wird soweit nach oben aus dem Rahmen 14 herausgefahren, daß ihre Unterkante über der Oberfläche 24 der Frontplatte 23 sich befindet. Die Bedienungseinheit 2 kann in dieser zweiten Position nunmehr um die Längsachse 54 in der gewünschten Weise von einem Benutzer gedreht werden. Wird das Wasser aus der Wanne abgelassen, so wird mittels des Wasserstandssensors 66 wiederum ein Kontakt und/oder Signal gegeben, um die Bedienungseinheit 2 zurückzufahren. Das Zurückfahren der Bedienungseinheit ist nur dann möglich, wenn sie die in der Zeichnung dargestellte Nullposition bezüglich der Längsachse 54 eingenommen hat. Daher ist in zweckmäßiger Weise ein Winkelsensor vorgesehen, welcher die momentane Winkelstellung der Bedienungseinheit 2 bezüglich des Rahmens und/oder bezüglich des Trägers 32 erfaßt. Auch dieser Winkelsensor ist mit der elektrischen Steuereinheit verbunden. In a special embodiment, a water level sensor 66 is provided, which is arranged at a suitable height on the wall 68 of the whirlpool. This sensor 66 is preferably an inductive or capacitive sensor formed, which is arranged on the outside of the tub rim. The Water level sensor 66 is connected to the control unit mentioned and indicates in An electrical signal depending on the water level. Will be in the tub Water is admitted, a contact and / or a signal is made by means of sensor 66 triggered by which the extension of the control unit 2 is controlled becomes. The control unit is moved upwards out of the frame 14 extended that its lower edge over the surface 24 of the front panel 23rd located. The operating unit 2 can now in this second position rotated about the longitudinal axis 54 in the desired manner by a user become. If the water is drained from the tub, the water level sensor is used 66 in turn a contact and / or signal given to the control unit 2 drive back. The operating unit is only retracted then possible if they refer to the zero position shown in the drawing the longitudinal axis 54 has taken. Therefore, in an appropriate manner Angle sensor provided, which the current angular position of the control unit 2 with respect to the frame and / or with respect to the carrier 32. This angle sensor is also connected to the electrical control unit.

Bezugszeichenreference numeral

22
Bedienungseinheitoperating unit
44
Tastenfeldkeypad
66
Taste / SchalterButton / switch
1010
Anzeigedisplay
1212
Gehäusecasing
1313
Stirnflächeface
1414
Rahmenframe
1616
Führungselement/StangeGuide member / rod
1818
Pfeilarrow
2020
Ausnehmungrecess
2222
Rand eines WhirlpoolsEdge of a hot tub
2323
Frontplattefront panel
2424
Oberflächesurface
2626
Rand von 23Edge of 23
2828
Oberkante von 22Top edge of 22
3030
Frontfläche von 2Front surface of 2
3232
Trägercarrier
3434
Führungskörperguide body
3636
Gewindespindelscrew
3838
Getriebeelementgear element
4040
Motorengine
4242
Riementriebbelt drive
4444
Halterungbracket
46, 4746, 47
Lagercamp
4848
strichpunktierte Liniedash-dotted line
5050
Kabelelectric wire
5252
Lagercamp
5454
Längsachselongitudinal axis
56, 5756, 57
Längskantelongitudinal edge
5858
Abstanddistance
60, 6160, 61
Längsseiten von 23Long sides of 23
6262
Breitewidth
6464
Längelength
6666
WasserstandssensorWater level sensor
6868
Wandwall

Claims (10)

  1. A control device for a whirlpool, comprising an operating unit (2) with pushbuttons for controlling at least one function of the whirlpool, wherein the operating unit (2) is arranged such that it can be moved relative to the whirlpool,
    characterized by the fact that a frame (14) with guide elements (16) for the operating unit (2) is inserted into a recess in the whirlpool edge (22), an intermediate bottom or a wall, and by the fact that a driving unit or an actuating device is provided for moving the operating unit (2) into a first position in which it is retracted into the frame (14) and into a second position in which it protrudes from the frame (14).
  2. The control device according to Claim 1, characterized by the fact that the operating unit (2) is arranged on a movable carrier (32), and by the fact that the carrier (32) can be moved such that the operating unit (2) selectively assumes the first or the second position.
  3. The control device according to Claim 2, characterized by the fact that the carrier (32) can be moved linearly.
  4. The control device according to Claim 2 or 3, characterized by the fact that the operating unit (2) is rotatably arranged on the carrier (32) by means of a bearing (52).
  5. The control device according to one of Claims 1 - 4, characterized by the fact that the operating unit (2) is arranged such that it can be turned relative to the frame (14) about an axis (54).
  6. The control device according to Claim 5, characterized by the fact that the axis (54) is arranged parallel to the guide elements (16).
  7. The control device according to one of Claims 1 - 6, characterized by the fact that the driving unit contains a motor (40).
  8. The control device according to one of Claims 1 - 7, characterized by the fact that a sensor (66) is provided for determining the water level in the whirlpool, wherein the movement of the operating unit (2) can be controlled by means of the sensor (66).
  9. The control device according to one of Claims 1 - 8, characterized by the fact that a sensor is provided for determining the angular position of the operating unit relative to the whirlpool.
  10. The control device according to Claim 9, characterized by the fact that said sensor is provided for determining the angular position of the operating unit relative to the frame (14) and/or the carrier (32).
EP96100028A 1995-01-19 1996-01-03 Control device for a whirlpool bath Expired - Lifetime EP0722707B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE29500785U DE29500785U1 (en) 1995-01-19 1995-01-19 Control device for a whirlpool
DE29500785U 1995-01-19

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0722707A1 EP0722707A1 (en) 1996-07-24
EP0722707B1 true EP0722707B1 (en) 2002-07-10

Family

ID=8002680

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP96100028A Expired - Lifetime EP0722707B1 (en) 1995-01-19 1996-01-03 Control device for a whirlpool bath

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0722707B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE220313T1 (en)
DE (2) DE29500785U1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
IT241578Y1 (en) * 1996-12-10 2001-05-09 Domino Spa EQUIPPED CABIN FOR SHOWER
EP0974329A3 (en) 1998-07-02 2001-09-12 Altura Leiden Holding B.V. Control apparatus for sanitary installations

Family Cites Families (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4169293A (en) * 1978-02-08 1979-10-02 Chanso Corporation Hydrotherapy vessel level control
DE2923506C2 (en) * 1979-06-09 1982-11-18 Aloys F. Dornbracht Gmbh & Co, 5860 Iserlohn Sanitary basin arrangement with at least one water outlet fitting
DE8627707U1 (en) * 1986-10-17 1987-08-20 Ucosan B.V., Roden, Nl
JPH0377399A (en) * 1989-08-19 1991-04-02 Mitsubishi Electric Corp Operation panel
US4942630A (en) * 1989-10-30 1990-07-24 Conway Products Company Spa with door access filter and control
DE9102497U1 (en) * 1991-03-02 1991-05-23 Knebel & Roettger Gmbh & Co, 5860 Iserlohn, De
DE4108566C2 (en) * 1991-03-15 1996-02-22 Dueker Eisenwerk Remote control device for controlling the water and / or air supply nozzles of a bathtub
DE4108719C2 (en) * 1991-03-18 1999-08-12 Guenter Schuessler Whirlpool bath with a circulation system

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0722707A1 (en) 1996-07-24
DE59609420D1 (en) 2002-08-14
DE29500785U1 (en) 1995-03-02
ATE220313T1 (en) 2002-07-15

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