EP0924354B1 - Device for the control of a urinal flushing mechanism - Google Patents

Device for the control of a urinal flushing mechanism Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0924354B1
EP0924354B1 EP98122356A EP98122356A EP0924354B1 EP 0924354 B1 EP0924354 B1 EP 0924354B1 EP 98122356 A EP98122356 A EP 98122356A EP 98122356 A EP98122356 A EP 98122356A EP 0924354 B1 EP0924354 B1 EP 0924354B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
urinal
control signal
voltage
probe
electrodes
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EP98122356A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0924354A3 (en
EP0924354A2 (en
Inventor
Jürgen Dipl.-Ing. Pfeifer
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Villeroy and Boch AG
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Villeroy and Boch AG
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D13/00—Urinals ; Means for connecting the urinal to the flushing pipe and the wastepipe; Splashing shields for urinals
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03D—WATER-CLOSETS OR URINALS WITH FLUSHING DEVICES; FLUSHING VALVES THEREFOR
    • E03D5/00—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system
    • E03D5/10—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated electrically, e.g. by a photo-cell; also combined with devices for opening or closing shutters in the bowl outlet and/or with devices for raising/or lowering seat and cover and/or for swiveling the bowl

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for controlling a urinal flush.
  • Such devices are known from GB 2 133 053 A, US 3,416,162 and EP 0 284 556 A1 known, where the conductivity of the urinal fluid u.a. in the odor trap measured and a control signal for actuation from the measured values the urinal flush is derived.
  • the present invention provides a new device of the kind mentioned in the introduction Type that improves its functional reliability compared to this prior art is.
  • a capacitance measuring probe flows between the electrodes and the urinal fluid no current, the size of which is influenced by the contact resistance could.
  • the capacitance measuring probe can be part of a measuring circuit in which a alternating current generated by an alternating voltage depending on the respective Size of the capacity of the capacitance probe takes on different sizes, so that a control signal for urinal flushing can be derived.
  • the compensation of the Influence of the increase in the contact resistance between the urinal fluid and the electrode probe possible.
  • Realizable compensation device can over a long Period over which the contact resistance between the electrode probe and the urinal fluid grows, measurement signals according to the determined curve correct reference values by normalizing to a reference output value the curve takes place.
  • This tap electrode can be advantageous with respect to the probe voltage leading electrodes can be arranged in such a way that the probe electrode is homogeneous surrounding urinal fluid to the tap electrode half of the Probe voltage drops. If there is an inhomogeneity as a result of using the urinal of the liquid surrounding the electrode probe, the value changes the falling voltage, with this change a control signal for the Triggering the urinal flush can be derived.
  • the tapping electrode is preferably for powerless tapping of the probe voltage drop connected to an amplifier circuit. So that flows over the Tapping electrode no appreciable current, the ratio of the voltage drops between the electrodes while distorting the measurement.
  • the tap electrode is in the Measuring branch of a bridge circuit comprising the current paths between the electrodes provided, expedient, with homogeneity of the conductivity in the urinal fluid, the voltage across the measuring branch is zero.
  • the probe voltage is involved an AC voltage, by which, in contrast to a DC voltage, a uneven decomposition of the live electrodes is avoided.
  • the frequency of the alternating probe voltage with regard to maximum impedance differences the current paths between the electrodes when the urinal fluid is inhomogeneous optimized. The greatest possible sensitivity is thus achieved.
  • control signal generator is time-delayed Generation of a control signal triggering the urinal flush is provided.
  • the time delay is expediently such that the rinsing is not immediate when in use of the urinal, but is triggered only on or after the end of use.
  • control signal generator can be used to generate the control signal in evaluation a determined time course of the tapped voltage can be provided. After this End of use there is more and more homogenization of the odor trap collected urinal fluid, so that when the electrode probe is arranged in Odor trap the tapped voltage value the normal value, especially the Value zero in an appropriately dimensioned bridge circuit, approximated. Considering a control signal can be derived from this approximation in such a way that the flushing only after a reasonable period of time after using the urinal is triggered.
  • the electrodes of the electrode probe are expediently preferably through the wall of one made of a plastic odor trap and in particular embedded in the plastic material.
  • a control circuit of the control signal generator connected to the electrodes can be connected to the Odor trap attached and in particular be integrated in the odor trap.
  • the control signal generator is expediently supplied with energy via an assigned battery fed so that no supply lines are laid to the urinal in question have to.
  • This battery can be attached to the odor trap and into the control circuit be integrated. But it is also conceivable to provide a battery compartment on the urinal basin.
  • the control signal generated by the control signal generator can be used to control a Flush triggering pulse valve may be provided.
  • the energy expenditure for actuation such pulse valves is very small, so that the one used to supply the control signal transmitter Battery is loaded accordingly little and a long operating time is guaranteed.
  • a holding volume for urinal fluid is indicated schematically at 1, which can be formed by the odor trap of a urinal shown in FIG. 4.
  • the receiving volume is filled with rinsing water 2
  • the conductivity within the Recording volume is distributed homogeneously.
  • the reference numerals 3 to 5 are in contact with of the liquid in the receiving volume 1 designated electrodes, of which the Electrodes 3 and 5 are connected to an AC voltage source 6.
  • a voltage U m can be tapped at the electrode 4, which has a constant value regardless of the nature of the liquid in the receiving volume 1, as long as the liquid in the receiving volume is homogeneous with regard to its conductivity. In this case, regardless of the conductivity of the liquid in the receiving volume on the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and between the electrodes 4 and 5, the same proportion of the voltage across the electrodes 3 and 5 drops.
  • a control signal for triggering the urinal flush can be derived from this change in the voltage U m .
  • the tap on the electrode 4 for the voltage U m can be provided in a measuring branch 12 of a bridge circuit in which the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and the electrodes 4 and 5 in FIG. 3 are alternatively represented by resistors 8 and 9.
  • Resistors 10 and 11 of the bridge circuit are dimensioned such that the voltage across the measuring branch is zero, as long as the conductivity of the liquid is homogeneously distributed in the receiving volume 1. If the distribution is inhomogeneous, the size ratio of the resistors 8 and 9 changes, and a voltage other than zero is present at the measuring branch 12.
  • 3 shows a DC voltage source 13 instead of the AC voltage source 6. Instead of this DC voltage source, an AC voltage source could also be used in such a bridge circuit with the formation of a corresponding AC voltage measurement signal via the measuring branch 12.
  • the electrodes 3 to 5 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can according to FIG. 4 through a wall 14 a urinal odor trap made of a plastic and led into the plastic material be embedded.
  • electrodes 3a to 5a are shown, which have one end in a through the odor trap formed receiving volume 1a protrude and at the other end with a control circuit for the generation of a control signal triggering the urinal flush stand.
  • the control circuit partially described in more detail with reference to FIG. 5 is schematically indicated at 15.
  • Such a control circuit could be embedded in the plastic material of the odor trap his.
  • the odor trap could be precautions for attachment a circuit card or a housing receiving the circuit card.
  • FIG. 4 in Fig. 4 is a connection through which the odor trap to a urinal basin can be connected.
  • a pipe section 17 is provided for connection to a drain.
  • Electrodes 3 to 5 and 3a to 5a correspond respectively Electrodes are labeled 3b to 5b.
  • Electrodes 3b and 5b in contact with an alternating voltage, which is supplied by an AC voltage source 6b.
  • the frequency of the AC voltage is 5 KHz and the amplitude is 100 millivolts.
  • FIG. 5 is a control potentiometer with a total resistance designated by 2 kilohms.
  • the current paths between the electrodes 3b and 4b and 4b and 5b and the partial resistors of the control potentiometer form a bridge circuit, the Bridge measuring branch with the tap electrode 4b and the control potentiometer 18 in connection stands.
  • An amplifier 19 and resistors 20 to 23 are provided in the measuring branch.
  • 5 is a further control potentiometer with a total resistance of 2 Kiloohm referred to that through a resistor 25 with the bridge measuring branch and Minus input of another amplifier 26 is connected. Between the minus entrance of the amplifier 26 and the amplifier output, a resistor 27 is connected. The Amplifier output of amplifier 26 is via a capacitor 28 with a capacitance of 220 nanofarads and a resistor 29 to the negative input of a third amplifier 30 coupled. Is above the negative input of amplifier 30 and the amplifier output a resistor 31.
  • the output of amplifier 30 is through a resistor 32 to the negative input one fourth amplifier 33 connected. Between the negative input of the amplifier 33 and the Amplifier output is a parallel connection of a 100 k ⁇ resistor 34 and one Diode 35 is provided.
  • the sensor signal output connection 40 is available via a parallel connection a capacitor 38 of 470 nanofarads and a resistance 39 of 6.8 k ⁇ against Dimensions.
  • the resistance value of resistors 20, 21, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31 and 32 is 27 k ⁇ each.
  • control potentiometer 18 is set in such a way that with homogeneity of the conductivity in the receptacle volume 1b that over the bridge measuring branch applied voltage, i.e. the voltage between the tap electrode 4b and the Tapping point on the control potentiometer 18 is zero.
  • the control potentiometer 24 is suitably adjusted so that non-linearities of the amplifier be balanced.
  • the ratio of the voltage drops on the current paths between the electrodes changes 3b and 4b as well as 4b and 5b and above the bridge measuring branch one is created by the amplifier 19 and the further amplifiers 26 and 30 amplified AC voltage.
  • the amplifier 33 and its circuitry through the components 34 to 39 result in a further amplification and rectification so that a sensor signal at the signal output terminal 40 is present to form a control signal triggering the urinal flush by a Circuit not shown in the figures can be evaluated further.
  • a control signal e.g. from a signal time curve of that applied to connection 40 Sensor signal are derived.
  • conductivity differences are similar in the recording volume 1b more and more, so that the signal returns to the initial value approaches.
  • the degree of approximation in relation to the maximum value of the A control signal triggering the urinal flush can now deviate from the initial value be formed.
  • the sensor signal at terminal 40 depends mainly on the ratio of the resistors the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and 4 and 5, causing an influence the contact resistance between the urinal fluid and the electrodes on the sensor signal is diminished.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Aviation & Aerospace Engineering (AREA)
  • Sanitary Device For Flush Toilet (AREA)

Abstract

The arrangement includes a control signal generator comprising an electrode probe (3-5) and reacting on an electric size of a urinal fluid (2). The control signal generator produces a control signal independently, or at least partially independent, of a resistance between the electrode probe and the urinal fluid. The probe is preferably formed as capacitive sensor, reacting on a dielectric constant of the urinal fluid.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur Steuerung einer Urinalspülung.The invention relates to a device for controlling a urinal flush.

Aus der GB 2 133 053 A, der US 3 416 162 und der EP 0 284 556 A 1 sind derartige Vorrichtungen bekannt, bei denen die Leitfähigkeit der Urinalflüssigkeit u.a. im Geruchsverschluss gemessen und aus den Messwerten ein Steuersignal für die Betätigung der Urinalspülung abgeleitet wird.Such devices are known from GB 2 133 053 A, US 3,416,162 and EP 0 284 556 A1 known, where the conductivity of the urinal fluid u.a. in the odor trap measured and a control signal for actuation from the measured values the urinal flush is derived.

Die vorliegende Erfindung schafft eine neue Vorrichtung der eingangs erwähnten Art, die gegenüber diesem Stand der Technik in ihrer Funktionssicherheit verbessert ist.The present invention provides a new device of the kind mentioned in the introduction Type that improves its functional reliability compared to this prior art is.

Diese Aufgabe wird durch eine Vorrichtung mit den im Anspruch 1 angegebenen Merkmalen gelöst.This object is achieved by a device with the specified in claim 1 Features resolved.

Durch diese Erfindungslösung kann der Einfluss von in Urinalen unvermeidbar auftretenden Ablagerungen auf der Elektrodensonde, durch die der Übergangswiderstand zwischen der Elektrodensonde und der Urinalflüssigkeit nach und nach anwächst, eliminiert werden, so dass ohne Wartungsaufwand die Funktionssicherheit der Vorrichtung langfristig gewährleistet ist.With this solution of the invention, the influence of those inevitably occurring in urinals can be Deposits on the electrode probe, through which the contact resistance growing gradually between the electrode probe and the urinal fluid, be eliminated, so that functional reliability without maintenance the device is guaranteed in the long term.

Bei einer Kapazitätsmesssonde fließt zwischen den Elektroden und der Urinalflüssigkeit kein Strom, dessen Größe durch den Übergangswiderstand beeinflusst werden könnte. Die Kapazitätsmesssonde kann Bestandteil eines Messkreises sein, in dem ein durch eine Wechselspannung erzeugter Wechselstrom abhängig von der jeweiligen Größe der Kapazität der Kapazitätsmesssonde unterschiedliche Größen annimmt, so dass ein Steuersignal für die Urinalspülung ableitbar ist.A capacitance measuring probe flows between the electrodes and the urinal fluid no current, the size of which is influenced by the contact resistance could. The capacitance measuring probe can be part of a measuring circuit in which a alternating current generated by an alternating voltage depending on the respective Size of the capacity of the capacitance probe takes on different sizes, so that a control signal for urinal flushing can be derived.

Durch Rückgriff auf gespeicherte Referenzwerte ist langfristig die Kompensation des Einflusses der Zunahme des Übergangswiderstandes zwischen der Urinalflüssigkeit und der Elektrodensonde möglich. Eine solche, vorzugsweise durch eine Computer-Software-Lösung realisierbare Kompensationseinrichtung kann über einen langen Zeitraum, über welchen der Übergangswiderstand zwischen der Elektrodensonde und der Urinalflüssigkeit anwächst, Messsignale entsprechend der ermittelten Kurve von Referenzwerten korrigieren, indem eine Normierung auf einen Referenzausgangswert der Kurve erfolgt.By using stored reference values, the compensation of the Influence of the increase in the contact resistance between the urinal fluid and the electrode probe possible. Such, preferably through a computer software solution Realizable compensation device can over a long Period over which the contact resistance between the electrode probe and the urinal fluid grows, measurement signals according to the determined curve correct reference values by normalizing to a reference output value the curve takes place.

Indem durch die Abgriffelektrode nur ein Teil der Sondenspannung erfasst wird, lässt sich ein vom genannten Übergangswiderstand weitgehend unabhängiges, auf einer inhomogenen Verteilung der Leitfähigkeit in der Urinalflüssigkeit beruhendes Steuersignal bilden.In that only a part of the probe voltage is detected by the tap electrode a largely independent of the contact resistance mentioned, on one control signal based on inhomogeneous distribution of conductivity in the urinal fluid form.

Diese Abgriffselektrode kann vorteilhaft in bezug auf die die Sondenspannung führenden Elektroden derart angeordnet sein, dass bei homogener, die Sondenelektrode umgebender Urinalflüssigkeit bis zur Abgriffselektrode die Hälfte der Sondenspannung abfällt. Kommt es infolge Benutzung des Urinals zu einer Inhomogenität der die Elektrodensonde umgebenden Flüssigkeit, so ändert sich der Wert der abfallenden Spannung, wobei von dieser Änderung ein Steuersignal für die Auslösung der Urinalspülung abgeleitet werden kann.This tap electrode can be advantageous with respect to the probe voltage leading electrodes can be arranged in such a way that the probe electrode is homogeneous surrounding urinal fluid to the tap electrode half of the Probe voltage drops. If there is an inhomogeneity as a result of using the urinal of the liquid surrounding the electrode probe, the value changes the falling voltage, with this change a control signal for the Triggering the urinal flush can be derived.

Vorzugsweise ist die Abgriffselektrode zum leistungslosen Abgreifen des Sondenspannungsabfalls mit einer Verstärkerschaltung verbunden. Damit fließt über die Abgriffselektrode kein nennenswerter Strom, der das Verhältnis der Spannungsabfälle zwischen den Elektroden unter Verfälschung der Messung beeinflussen könnte. The tapping electrode is preferably for powerless tapping of the probe voltage drop connected to an amplifier circuit. So that flows over the Tapping electrode no appreciable current, the ratio of the voltage drops between the electrodes while distorting the measurement.

In einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist die Abgriffselektrode im Meßzweig einer die Stromwege zwischen den Elektroden umfassenden Brückenschaltung vorgesehen, wobei zweckmäßig, bei Homogenität der Leitfähigkeit in der Urinalflüssigkeit, die über dem Meßzweig anliegende Spannung gleich Null ist.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the tap electrode is in the Measuring branch of a bridge circuit comprising the current paths between the electrodes provided, expedient, with homogeneity of the conductivity in the urinal fluid, the voltage across the measuring branch is zero.

In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung handelt es sich bei der Sondenspannung um eine Wechselspannung, durch die, im Gegensatz zu einer Gleichspannung, eine ungleichmäßige Zersetzung der spannungsführenden Elektroden vermieden wird. Vorzugsweise ist die Frequenz der Sondenwechselspannung im Hinblick auf maximale Impedanzunterschiede der Stromwege zwischen den Elektroden bei Inhomogenität der Urinalflüssigkeit optimiert. Somit wird die größtmögliche Meßempfindlichkeit erreicht.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the probe voltage is involved an AC voltage, by which, in contrast to a DC voltage, a uneven decomposition of the live electrodes is avoided. Preferably is the frequency of the alternating probe voltage with regard to maximum impedance differences the current paths between the electrodes when the urinal fluid is inhomogeneous optimized. The greatest possible sensitivity is thus achieved.

In weiterer vorteilhafter Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist der Steuersignalgeber zur zeitverzögerten Erzeugung eines die Urinalspülung auslösenden Steuersignals vorgesehen. Diese Zeitverzögerung ist zweckmäßig so bemessen, daß die Spülung nicht sofort bei Benutzung des Urinals, sondern erst am oder nach dem Benutzungsende ausgelöst wird.In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control signal generator is time-delayed Generation of a control signal triggering the urinal flush is provided. This The time delay is expediently such that the rinsing is not immediate when in use of the urinal, but is triggered only on or after the end of use.

Insbesondere kann der Steuersignalgeber zur Erzeugung des Steuersignals in Auswertung eines ermittelten Zeitverlaufs der abgegriffenen Spannung vorgesehen sein. Nach dem Benutzungsende kommt es mehr und mehr zu einer Homogenisierung der im Geruchsverschluß gesammelten Urinalflüssigkeit, so daß sich bei Anordnung der Elektrodensonde im Geruchsverschluß der abgegriffene Spannungswert dem Normalwert, insbesondere dem Wert Null in einer entsprechend bemessenen Brückenschaltung, annähert. Unter Berücksichtigung dieser Annäherung kann ein Steuersignal derart abgeleitet werden, daß die Spülung erst nach einem angemessenen Zeitraum nach Abschluß der Benutzung des Urinals ausgelöst wird.In particular, the control signal generator can be used to generate the control signal in evaluation a determined time course of the tapped voltage can be provided. After this End of use there is more and more homogenization of the odor trap collected urinal fluid, so that when the electrode probe is arranged in Odor trap the tapped voltage value the normal value, especially the Value zero in an appropriately dimensioned bridge circuit, approximated. Considering a control signal can be derived from this approximation in such a way that the flushing only after a reasonable period of time after using the urinal is triggered.

Zweckmäßig sind die Elektroden der Elektrodensonde jeweils durch die Wand eines vorzugsweise aus einem Kunststoff hergestellten Geruchsverschlusses geführt und insbesondere in das Kunststoffmaterial eingebettet.The electrodes of the electrode probe are expediently preferably through the wall of one made of a plastic odor trap and in particular embedded in the plastic material.

Eine mit den Elektroden verbundene Steuerschaltung des Steuersignalgebers kann an dem Geruchsverschluß angebracht und insbesondere in dem Geruchsverschluß integriert sein.A control circuit of the control signal generator connected to the electrodes can be connected to the Odor trap attached and in particular be integrated in the odor trap.

Zur Energieversorgung wird der Steuersignalgeber zweckmäßig über eine zugeordnete Batterie gespeist, so daß keine Versorgungsleitungen zu dem betreffenden Urinal gelegt werden müssen. Diese Batterie kann am Geruchsverschluß angebracht und in die Steuerschaltung integriert sein. Es ist aber auch denkbar, ein Batteriefach am Urinalbecken vorzusehen.The control signal generator is expediently supplied with energy via an assigned battery fed so that no supply lines are laid to the urinal in question have to. This battery can be attached to the odor trap and into the control circuit be integrated. But it is also conceivable to provide a battery compartment on the urinal basin.

Das durch den Steuersignalgeber erzeugte Steuersignal kann zur Ansteuerung eines die Spülung auslösenden Impulsventils vorgesehen sein. Der Energieaufwand zur Betätigung solcher Impulsventile ist sehr gering, so daß die zur Speisung des Steuersignalgebers verwendete Batterie entsprechend wenig belastet wird und eine lange Betriebszeit gewährleistet ist.The control signal generated by the control signal generator can be used to control a Flush triggering pulse valve may be provided. The energy expenditure for actuation such pulse valves is very small, so that the one used to supply the control signal transmitter Battery is loaded accordingly little and a long operating time is guaranteed.

Die Erfindung soll nun anhand von Ausführungsbeispielen und der beiliegenden, sich auf diese Ausführungsbeispiele beziehenden Zeichnungen näher erläutert und beschrieben werden. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine Prinzipschaltung für ein Ausführungsbeispiel einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung für die Steuerung einer Urinalspülung, wobei Sondenelektroden mit einer homogenen Urinalflüssigkeit in Kontakt sind,
Fig. 2
die Prinzipschaltung von Fig. 1, wobei die Sondenelektroden mit einer inhomogenen Urinalflüssigkeit in Kontakt sind,
Fig. 3
ein Ersatzschaltbild für eine bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 1 und 2 verwendbare Brückenschaltung,
Fig. 4
einen Geruchsverschluß für ein Urinal, an dem entsprechend einem Ausführungsbeispiel nach der vorliegenden Erfindung eine Elektrodensonde und eine Steuerschaltung angebracht sind,
Fig. 5
ein Schaltbild einer bei dem Ausführungsbeispiel von Fig. 4 verwendeten Sensorschaltung.
The invention will now be explained and described in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments and the accompanying drawings relating to these exemplary embodiments. Show it:
Fig. 1
1 shows a basic circuit for an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention for controlling a urinal flush, probe electrodes being in contact with a homogeneous urinal fluid,
Fig. 2
the basic circuit of Fig. 1, wherein the probe electrodes are in contact with an inhomogeneous urinal fluid,
Fig. 3
2 shows an equivalent circuit diagram for a bridge circuit that can be used in the exemplary embodiment according to FIGS. 1 and 2,
Fig. 4
an odor trap for a urinal, to which an electrode probe and a control circuit are attached in accordance with an exemplary embodiment according to the present invention,
Fig. 5
a circuit diagram of a sensor circuit used in the embodiment of FIG. 4.

In den Fig. 1 und 2 ist bei 1 schematisch ein Aufnahmevolumen für Urinalflüssigkeit angedeutet, das durch den in Fig. 4 gezeigten Geruchsverschluß eines Urinals gebildet sein kann. In Fig. 1 ist das Aufnahmevolumen mit Spülwasser 2 gefüllt, dessen Leitfähigkeit innerhalb des Aufnahmevolumens homogen verteilt ist. Mit den Bezugszeichen 3 bis 5 sind in Kontakt mit der Flüssigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen 1 befindliche Elektroden bezeichnet, von denen die Elektroden 3 und 5 an eine Wechselspannungsquelle 6 angeschlossen sind.1 and 2, a holding volume for urinal fluid is indicated schematically at 1, which can be formed by the odor trap of a urinal shown in FIG. 4. In Fig. 1, the receiving volume is filled with rinsing water 2, the conductivity within the Recording volume is distributed homogeneously. The reference numerals 3 to 5 are in contact with of the liquid in the receiving volume 1 designated electrodes, of which the Electrodes 3 and 5 are connected to an AC voltage source 6.

An der Elektrode 4 ist eine Spannung Um abgreifbar, welche unabhängig von der Beschaffenheit der Flüssigkeit in dem Aufnahmevolumen 1 einen konstanten Wert hat, solange die Flüssigkeit in dem Aufnahmevolumen hinsichtlich ihrer Leitfähigkeit homogen ist. In diesem Fall fällt unabhängig von der Leitfähigkeit der Flüssigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen auf den Stromwegen zwischen den Elektroden 3 und 4 und zwischen den Elektroden 4 und 5 jeweils der gleiche Anteil der über den Elektroden 3 und 5 anliegenden Spannung ab.A voltage U m can be tapped at the electrode 4, which has a constant value regardless of the nature of the liquid in the receiving volume 1, as long as the liquid in the receiving volume is homogeneous with regard to its conductivity. In this case, regardless of the conductivity of the liquid in the receiving volume on the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and between the electrodes 4 and 5, the same proportion of the voltage across the electrodes 3 and 5 drops.

Kommt es infolge Benutzung des Urinals zu einer Inhomogenität der Leitfähigkeit der Flüssigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen 1, wie dies bei 7 angedeutet ist, so ändert sich das Verhältnis der zwischen den Elektroden 3 und 4 und zwischen den Elektroden 4 und 5 abfallenden Spannungsanteile und damit die abgegriffene Spannung Um. Von dieser Änderung der Spannung Um kann ein Steuersignal für die Auslösung der Urinalspülung abgeleitet werden.If, as a result of using the urinal, there is an inhomogeneity in the conductivity of the liquid in the receiving volume 1, as indicated at 7, the ratio of the voltage components falling between the electrodes 3 and 4 and between the electrodes 4 and 5 changes, and thus the tapped voltage U m . A control signal for triggering the urinal flush can be derived from this change in the voltage U m .

Wie das Prinzipschaltbild von Fig. 3 zeigt, kann der Abgriff an der Elektrode 4 für die Spannung Um in einem Meßzweig 12 einer Brückenschaltung vorgesehen sein, in welcher die Stromwege zwischen den Elektroden 3 und 4 und den Elektroden 4 und 5 in Fig. 3 ersatzweise durch Widerstände 8 und 9 dargestellt sind. Widerstände 10 und 11 der Brückenschaltung sind so bemessen, daß die über dem Meßzweig anliegende Spannung gleich Null ist, solange die Leitfähigkeit der Flüssigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen 1 homogen verteilt ist. Bei inhomogener Verteilung ändert sich das Größenverhältnis der Widerstände 8 und 9, und am Meßzweig 12 liegt eine von Null verschiedene Spannung an. In Fig. 3 ist anstelle der Wechselspannungsquelle 6 eine Gleichspannungsquelle 13 gezeigt. Anstelle dieser Gleichspannungsquelle ließe sich in einer solchen Brückenschaltung unter Bildung eines entsprechenden Wechselspannungsmeßsignals über dem Meßzweig 12 auch eine Wechselspannungsquelle verwenden.3, the tap on the electrode 4 for the voltage U m can be provided in a measuring branch 12 of a bridge circuit in which the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and the electrodes 4 and 5 in FIG. 3 are alternatively represented by resistors 8 and 9. Resistors 10 and 11 of the bridge circuit are dimensioned such that the voltage across the measuring branch is zero, as long as the conductivity of the liquid is homogeneously distributed in the receiving volume 1. If the distribution is inhomogeneous, the size ratio of the resistors 8 and 9 changes, and a voltage other than zero is present at the measuring branch 12. 3 shows a DC voltage source 13 instead of the AC voltage source 6. Instead of this DC voltage source, an AC voltage source could also be used in such a bridge circuit with the formation of a corresponding AC voltage measurement signal via the measuring branch 12.

Die in Fig. 1 und 2 gezeigten Elektroden 3 bis 5 können gemäß Fig. 4 durch eine Wand 14 eines aus einem Kunststoff hergestellten Urinal-Geruchsverschlusses geführt und in das Kunststoffmaterial eingebettet sein.The electrodes 3 to 5 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 can according to FIG. 4 through a wall 14 a urinal odor trap made of a plastic and led into the plastic material be embedded.

In Fig. 4 sind Elektroden 3a bis 5a gezeigt, die mit einem Ende in ein durch den Geruchsverschluß gebildetes Aufnahmevolumen 1a hineinragen und am anderen Ende mit einer Steuerschaltung für die Erzeugung eines die Urinalspülung auslösenden Steuersignals in Verbindung stehen. Die anhand von Fig. 5 teilweise genauer beschriebene Steuerschaltung ist schematisch bei 15 angedeutet.In Fig. 4 electrodes 3a to 5a are shown, which have one end in a through the odor trap formed receiving volume 1a protrude and at the other end with a control circuit for the generation of a control signal triggering the urinal flush stand. The control circuit partially described in more detail with reference to FIG. 5 is schematically indicated at 15.

Eine solche Steuerschaltung könnte in das Kunststoffmaterial des Geruchsverschlusses eingebettet sein. Andererseits könnte der Geruchsverschluß Vorkehrungen für die Anbringung einer Leiterkarte oder eines die Leiterkarte aufnehmenden Gehäuses aufweisen. Such a control circuit could be embedded in the plastic material of the odor trap his. On the other hand, the odor trap could be precautions for attachment a circuit card or a housing receiving the circuit card.

Mit 16 ist in Fig. 4 ein Anschluß bezeichnet, über den der Geruchsverschluß an ein Urinalbecken anschließbar ist. Ein Rohrstück 17 ist zum Anschluß an einen Abfluß vorgesehen.4 in Fig. 4 is a connection through which the odor trap to a urinal basin can be connected. A pipe section 17 is provided for connection to a drain.

Es wird nun auf Fig. 5 Bezug genommen, wo den Elektroden 3 bis 5 bzw. 3a bis 5a entsprechende Elektroden mit 3b bis 5b bezeichnet sind. Über den mit Urinalflüssigkeit in einem Aufnahmevolumen 1b in Kontakt stehenden Elektroden 3b und 5b liegt eine Wechselspannung, die von einer Wechselspannungsquelle 6b geliefert wird. In dem gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel beträgt die Frequenz der Wechselspannung 5 KHz und die Amplitude 100 Millivolt.Reference is now made to FIG. 5, where electrodes 3 to 5 and 3a to 5a correspond respectively Electrodes are labeled 3b to 5b. Above that with urinal fluid in a volume 1b electrodes 3b and 5b in contact with an alternating voltage, which is supplied by an AC voltage source 6b. In the embodiment shown the frequency of the AC voltage is 5 KHz and the amplitude is 100 millivolts.

Mit dem Bezugszeichen 18 ist in Fig. 5 ein Regelpotentiometer mit einem Gesamtwiderstand von 2 Kiloohm bezeichnet. Die Stromwege zwischen den Elektroden 3b und 4b sowie 4b und 5b sowie die Teilwiderstände des Regelpotentiometers bilden eine Brückenschaltung, deren Brücken-Meßzweig mit der Abgriffselektrode 4b und dem Regelpotentiometer 18 in Verbindung steht. In dem Meßzweig sind ein Verstärker 19 sowie Widerstände 20 bis 23 vorgesehen.5 is a control potentiometer with a total resistance designated by 2 kilohms. The current paths between the electrodes 3b and 4b and 4b and 5b and the partial resistors of the control potentiometer form a bridge circuit, the Bridge measuring branch with the tap electrode 4b and the control potentiometer 18 in connection stands. An amplifier 19 and resistors 20 to 23 are provided in the measuring branch.

Mit 24 ist in der Fig. 5 ein weiteres Regelpotentiometer mit einem Gesamtwiderstand von 2 Kiloohm bezeichnet, das über einen Widerstand 25 mit dem Brücken-Meßzweig und dem Minuseingang eines weiteren Verstärkers 26 in Verbindung steht. Zwischen den Minuseingang des Verstärkers 26 und den Verstärkerausgang ist ein Widerstand 27 geschaltet. Der Verstärkerausgang des Verstärkers 26 ist über einen Kondensator 28 mit einer Kapazität von 220 Nanofarad und einen Widerstand 29 an den Minuseingang eines dritten Verstärkers 30 angekoppelt. Über dem Minuseingang des Verstärkers 30 und dem Verstärkerausgang liegt ein Widerstand 31.5 is a further control potentiometer with a total resistance of 2 Kiloohm referred to that through a resistor 25 with the bridge measuring branch and Minus input of another amplifier 26 is connected. Between the minus entrance of the amplifier 26 and the amplifier output, a resistor 27 is connected. The Amplifier output of amplifier 26 is via a capacitor 28 with a capacitance of 220 nanofarads and a resistor 29 to the negative input of a third amplifier 30 coupled. Is above the negative input of amplifier 30 and the amplifier output a resistor 31.

Der Ausgang des Verstärkers 30 ist über einen Widerstand 32 mit dem Minuseingang eines vierten Verstärkers 33 verbunden. Zwischen dem Minuseingang des Verstärkers 33 und dem Verstärkerausgang ist eine Parallelschaltung aus einem 100 kΩ-Widerstand 34 und einer Diode 35 vorgesehen.The output of amplifier 30 is through a resistor 32 to the negative input one fourth amplifier 33 connected. Between the negative input of the amplifier 33 and the Amplifier output is a parallel connection of a 100 kΩ resistor 34 and one Diode 35 is provided.

Mit 36 ist in der Fig. 4 eine weitere dem Ausgang des Verstärkers 33 nachgeschaltete Diode bezeichnet, die in Reihe mit einem Widerstand 37 und einem Sensorsignalausgangsanschluß 40 geschaltet ist. Der Sensorsignalausgangsanschluß 40 liegt über eine Parallelschaltung aus einem Kondensator 38 von 470 Nanofarad und einem Widerstand 39 von 6,8 kΩ gegen Masse.4 is a further diode connected downstream of the output of the amplifier 33 in FIG. 4 designated, in series with a resistor 37 and a sensor signal output terminal 40 is switched. The sensor signal output connection 40 is available via a parallel connection a capacitor 38 of 470 nanofarads and a resistance 39 of 6.8 kΩ against Dimensions.

Der Widerstandswert der Widerstände 20,21,22,25,27,29,31 und 32 beträgt jeweils 27 kΩ. The resistance value of resistors 20, 21, 22, 25, 27, 29, 31 and 32 is 27 kΩ each.

Zum Betrieb der in Fig. 5 gezeigten Schaltung wird das Regelpotentiometer 18 so eingestellt, daß bei Homoginat der Leitfähigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen 1b die über dem Brücken-Meßzweig anliegende Spannung, d.h. die Spannung zwischen der Abgriffselektrode 4b und dem Abgriffspunkt am Regelpotentiometer 18 gleich Null ist.To operate the circuit shown in FIG. 5, the control potentiometer 18 is set in such a way that with homogeneity of the conductivity in the receptacle volume 1b that over the bridge measuring branch applied voltage, i.e. the voltage between the tap electrode 4b and the Tapping point on the control potentiometer 18 is zero.

Das Regelpotentiometer 24 wird geeignet so eingestellt, daß Unlinearitäten der Verstärker ausgeglichen werden.The control potentiometer 24 is suitably adjusted so that non-linearities of the amplifier be balanced.

Kommt es zu einer Inhomogenität der Leitfähigkeit der Flüssigkeit im Aufnahmevolumen 1b, so ändert sich das Verhältnis der Spannungsabfälle auf den Stromwegen zwischen den Elektroden 3b und 4b sowie 4b und 5b und über dem Brücken-Meßzweig entsteht eine durch den Verstärker 19 und die weiteren Verstärker 26 und 30 verstärkte Wechselspannung.If there is an inhomogeneity in the conductivity of the liquid in the receiving volume 1b, the ratio of the voltage drops on the current paths between the electrodes changes 3b and 4b as well as 4b and 5b and above the bridge measuring branch one is created by the amplifier 19 and the further amplifiers 26 and 30 amplified AC voltage.

Durch den Verstärker 33 und seine Beschaltung durch die Bauelemente 34 bis 39 erfolgt eine weitere Verstärkung und Gleichrichtung, so daß am Signalausgangsanschluß 40 ein Sensorsignal anliegt, das zur Bildung eines die Urinalspülung auslösenden Steuersignals durch eine in den Figuren nicht gezeigte Schaltung weiter ausgewertet werden kann.The amplifier 33 and its circuitry through the components 34 to 39 result in a further amplification and rectification so that a sensor signal at the signal output terminal 40 is present to form a control signal triggering the urinal flush by a Circuit not shown in the figures can be evaluated further.

Dabei kann ein Steuersignal z.B. von einem Signalzeitverlauf des am Anschluß 40 anliegenden Sensorsignals abgeleitet werden. Bei Beginn einer Urinalbenutzung kommt es zu einem verhältnismäßig starken Anstieg der Inhomogenität in dem Aufnahmevolumen 1b und damit zu einem starken Anstieg des Sensorsignals am Anschluß 40. Nach und nach und insbesondere nach Beendigung der Benutzung des Urinals gleichen sich Leitfähigkeitsunterschiede im Aufnahmevolumen 1b mehr und mehr aus, so daß sich das Signal wieder dem Anfangswert annähert. Abhängig z.B. vom Grad der Annäherung im Verhältnis zum Maximalwert der Abweichung vom Anfangswert kann nun ein die Urinalspülung auslösendes Steuersignal gebildet werden.A control signal e.g. from a signal time curve of that applied to connection 40 Sensor signal are derived. At the start of urinal use there is a relatively large increase in inhomogeneity in the receiving volume 1b and thus to a sharp rise in the sensor signal at connection 40. Gradually and in particular after the use of the urinal ends, conductivity differences are similar in the recording volume 1b more and more, so that the signal returns to the initial value approaches. Depending on e.g. the degree of approximation in relation to the maximum value of the A control signal triggering the urinal flush can now deviate from the initial value be formed.

Das Sensorsignal am Anschluß 40 hängt hauptsächlich vom Verhältnis der Widerstände auf den Stromwegen zwischen den Elektroden 3 und 4 sowie 4 und 5 ab, wodurch ein Einfluß der Übergangswiderstände zwischen der Urinalflüssigkeit und den Elektroden auf das Sensorsignal gemindert ist.The sensor signal at terminal 40 depends mainly on the ratio of the resistors the current paths between the electrodes 3 and 4 and 4 and 5, causing an influence the contact resistance between the urinal fluid and the electrodes on the sensor signal is diminished.

Claims (16)

  1. Apparatus for controlling a urinal flushing mechanism having a control signal generator for producing a control signal which triggers flushing, the control signal generator having a capacitance measuring probe which detects changes in the dielectric constant of liquid in the urinal or having an electrode measuring probe (3-5) which detects changes in the electrical conductivity of liquid in the urinal and has electrodes (3, 5) for applying a probe voltage which produces a current through the liquid in the urinal, the electrode measuring probe (3-5) comprising devices for compensating for the effect on the control signal of deposits on the electrodes, which devices correct changes in the control signal as a result of a long-term increase in the contact resistance between the electrodes and the liquid in the urinal using a curve of stored reference values, and/or which have at least one pick-up electrode (4) for detecting a portion of the probe voltage dropped across the liquid in the urinal.
  2. Apparatus according to Claim 1, characterized in that the pick-up electrode (4) is arranged with respect to the electrodes (3, 5) carrying the probe voltage such that half the probe voltage is dropped before the pick-up electrode (4) when the conductance of the liquid in the urinal is homogeneously distributed.
  3. Apparatus according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the pick-up electrode (4) for picking up the probe voltage drop largely without power is connected to an amplifier circuit (19-23).
  4. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the pick-up electrode (4) is provided in the measurement arm of a bridge circuit which comprises the current paths between the electrodes (3, 5).
  5. Apparatus according to Claim 4, characterized in that the voltage across the measurement arm is zero when the conductance of the liquid in the urinal is homogeneously distributed.
  6. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the probe voltage is an AC voltage.
  7. Apparatus according to Claim 6, characterized in that the frequency of the probe AC voltage is optimized with regard to maximum resistance differences in the current paths between the electrodes (3-5) when the conductance of the liquid in the urinal is inhomogeneously distributed.
  8. Apparatus according to Claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the frequency of the AC voltage is 5 kHz.
  9. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the control signal generator is provided for producing a control signal which triggers the urinal flushing mechanism with a time delay.
  10. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the control signal generator is provided for producing the control signal by evaluating an ascertained time profile of the picked-up voltage.
  11. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the electrode probe (3-5) is in contact with the liquid in the urinal in the U-bend of the urinal.
  12. Apparatus according to Claim 11, characterized in that the electrodes (3-5) of the electrode probe are each passed through the wall (14) of a U-bend, preferably made of plastic, of a urinal and, in particular, are embedded in the plastics material.
  13. Apparatus according to Claim 11 or 12, characterized in that a control circuit (15) of the control signal generator, which control circuit is connected to the electrodes (3a-5a), is provided on the U-bend and, in particular, is integrated in the U-bend.
  14. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the control signal generator is connected to a battery which supplies its operating voltage.
  15. Apparatus according to Claim 14, characterized in that the battery is integrated in the U-bend and/or a battery compartment is provided on the urinal bowl.
  16. Apparatus according to one of Claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the control signal of the control signal generator is provided in order to actuate a pulse valve which triggers the flushing mechanism.
EP98122356A 1997-12-17 1998-11-25 Device for the control of a urinal flushing mechanism Expired - Lifetime EP0924354B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19755998 1997-12-17
DE19755998A DE19755998A1 (en) 1997-12-17 1997-12-17 Device for controlling a urinal flush

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EP0924354A2 EP0924354A2 (en) 1999-06-23
EP0924354A3 EP0924354A3 (en) 1999-11-10
EP0924354B1 true EP0924354B1 (en) 2004-10-13

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AT (1) ATE279596T1 (en)
DE (2) DE19755998A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8381329B2 (en) 2006-10-24 2013-02-26 Bradley Fixtures Corporation Capacitive sensing for washroom fixture

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE10006670A1 (en) * 1999-12-22 2001-07-05 Friatec Ag Method for disposing of flush water from toilet basins has an overflow sensing electrode positioned at the top of the syphon
DE10111210B4 (en) * 2001-03-08 2005-05-12 Mepa-Pauli Und Menden Gmbh Method for controlling the flushing of a urinal
AT412353B (en) * 2003-04-18 2005-01-25 Herbert Wimberger SIPHON AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A FLUSH
DE102004033130A1 (en) * 2004-07-08 2006-02-09 Mepa-Pauli Und Menden Gmbh Automatic flushing control for urinal has electrodes to monitor the concentration in the water trap and the concentration in the overflow
DE102021126028A1 (en) 2021-10-07 2023-04-13 Wimtec Sanitärprodukte Gmbh Process monitoring device

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US3416162A (en) * 1966-07-11 1968-12-17 Contamination Control Corp Automatic flushing control mechanism
GB2133053A (en) 1983-01-05 1984-07-18 Geberit Ag Automatic flushing system for a urinal
EP0284556A1 (en) 1987-03-17 1988-09-28 Bieri Pumpenbau Ag Method for automatically activating a flushing device for a double urinal as well as flushing device for a double urinal
NL8700744A (en) * 1987-03-30 1988-10-17 Yokogawa Electrofact Bv METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MEASURING THE CONDUCTIVITY OF A LIQUID, ANTI-INFLUENCE OF POLARIZATION
DE4216176C2 (en) * 1991-04-20 1994-03-03 Fraunhofer Ges Forschung Integrable conductivity measuring device

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8381329B2 (en) 2006-10-24 2013-02-26 Bradley Fixtures Corporation Capacitive sensing for washroom fixture
US9328490B2 (en) 2006-10-24 2016-05-03 Bradley Fixtures Corporation Capacitive sensing for washroom fixture

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Publication number Publication date
DE59812113D1 (en) 2004-11-18
EP0924354A3 (en) 1999-11-10
ATE279596T1 (en) 2004-10-15
EP0924354A2 (en) 1999-06-23
DE19755998A1 (en) 1999-06-24

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