EP1866252A1 - Dispositif de douche avec protection contre les legionella - Google Patents

Dispositif de douche avec protection contre les legionella

Info

Publication number
EP1866252A1
EP1866252A1 EP05822133A EP05822133A EP1866252A1 EP 1866252 A1 EP1866252 A1 EP 1866252A1 EP 05822133 A EP05822133 A EP 05822133A EP 05822133 A EP05822133 A EP 05822133A EP 1866252 A1 EP1866252 A1 EP 1866252A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
filter
connection
water
connection point
cleansing
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP05822133A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Simon Marius Visser
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.)
Prolix Enterprises International NV
Original Assignee
Prolix Enterprises International NV
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 Prolix Enterprises International NV filed Critical Prolix Enterprises International NV
Publication of EP1866252A1 publication Critical patent/EP1866252A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/44—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis
    • C02F1/444—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis by ultrafiltration or microfiltration
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • E03C1/0408—Water installations especially for showers
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/02—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by heating
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/03—Pressure
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/40—Liquid flow rate
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2303/00—Specific treatment goals
    • C02F2303/16—Regeneration of sorbents, filters
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2307/00—Location of water treatment or water treatment device
    • C02F2307/06—Mounted on or being part of a faucet, shower handle or showerhead
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C2201/00—Details, devices or methods not otherwise provided for
    • E03C2201/40—Arrangement of water treatment devices in domestic plumbing installations
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
    • F24D17/00—Domestic hot-water supply systems
    • F24D17/0073—Arrangements for preventing the occurrence or proliferation of microorganisms in the water

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of shower installations.
  • Legionella bacteria infections particularly due to the rising number of elderly people in society - who have low resistance -, are an increasing source of concern. In the Netherlands there some 600 cases of infection a year, in Germany a few thousand a year.
  • a particular risk are shower installations that are not used for quite a while, such as shower installations in holiday homes and second homes, particularly in warmer areas. However, it may also regard a shower installation in a residence, when the resident has been absent for some time.
  • a problem related thereto is that the user is not or cannot be aware of the risk.
  • the invention provides a device for purifying tap water for a shower comprising a filter of which the inlet side is in operative connection with a first connection point of the device and of which the outlet side is in operative connection with a second connection point of the device, wherein the first connection point is suitable for connection to a supply line for tap water and wherein the second connection point is suitable for connection to an exit for filtered water to a shower, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a branch line situated near the inlet side and/or near the outlet side of the filter for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a control unit for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter according to a pre-set program, and with signalling means or a signal provider or indicator for giving a visual signal that is indicative for a stage of the program carried out.
  • the (extra) branch line may be used for carrying out a program for periodical flushing and/or cleansing of the filter, so that the filter is able to retain its effectiveness for a longer period of time. The lifespan of the filter can thus be lengthened, without a risk of legionella infection occurring. Because of the signalling means the user is able to immediately see/notice for himself whether it is safe to take a shower, also after having been absent for a long time, and take the decision of whether or not to take a shower.
  • the indicated program stage may particularly be - in the process of flushing/cleansing - or - program completed, safe -.
  • the signalling means are controlled for giving a visual signal for the situation in which the program has not or not fully been carried out due to failure.
  • the signalling means are controlled for indicating that in deviation of a set program, flushing/cleansing has not taken place, has not taken place sufficiently long and/or has not taken place ⁇ at the right temperature.
  • the signalling means may comprise an object, such as a knob, that can be moved between an invisible or less visible position and clearly visible turned-off position.
  • the signalling means may comprise a light, such as a LED, for instance a red light to signal - failure - and/or program stage - active - and/or a green light to signal - safe -.
  • a combination is provided of automatic cleansing of the filter and providing information to the user about the condition of the device being safe or not. Bacteria growing back towards and in the supply line, which may occur in case the shower instajlation is not used on a daily basis, as is the case for guest rooms, holiday homes, etcetera, is prevented.
  • control unit is provided with timer means for having the flushing and/or thermal cleansing carried out for a certain period of time, for instance for a period of 20 minutes at a low flow rate, for instance less than 1 I per minute, and at a certain point in time (for instance once every 24 hours).
  • timer means for having the flushing and/or thermal cleansing carried out for a certain period of time, for instance for a period of 20 minutes at a low flow rate, for instance less than 1 I per minute, and at a certain point in time (for instance once every 24 hours).
  • the control unit may comprise timer means for determining the period of use of the filter that has passed by and means for comparing the period of use that has passed by with a standard duration, further with means for closing off the water passage between the first and the second connection point. In case the filter was for instance placed over
  • the signalling means can then be controlled for giving a signal corresponding to the result of the comparison "period of use-standard duration".
  • An example thereof is a red light being switched on once the standard duration has been exceeded and a green light being on when the standard duration has not yet been exceeded.
  • the device may be provided with means for setting the standard duration, flushing time, flushing duration, flushing frequency, cleansing time, cleansing duration and/or cleansing frequency.
  • the setting means may be safeguarded against unauthorised use, for instance by means of a casing that can be closed off, so that the casing is only accessible to personnel, if applicable.
  • the control unit can be provided with means for registering the flushing and/or cleansing processes, as regards point in time, duration, temperature, as well as with means (for enabling) to read said registration.
  • a flow rate regulator is provided between the filter and the exit for limiting the flow rate through the filter.
  • the maximum flow rate through the filter can be limited by means of the flow rate regulator in order to prevent damage to the filter.
  • the flow rate regulator can be designed such that it provides a substantially constant flow rate (the flow rate regulator is adapted to a certain flow rate), in one embodiment controlled by the control device.
  • the flow rate regulator may optionally be left out of the purification device.
  • the flow rate regulator built in into the showerhead then takes over the function of the flow rate regulator for the purification device.
  • the flow rate regulator built in into the showerhead has to be suitable to regulate the flow rate through the purification device in the desired manner.
  • the device is provided with a flow-back protection between the first connection point and the filter for preventing water from the device from flowing back into the supply line.
  • the flow-back protection prevents that contaminations, which may have accumulated in the filter, end up in the supply line. Contamination of the water supply system is prevented.
  • the flow-back protection particularly a non-return valve, furthermore ensures that flush water or cleansing water fully escapes via the branch line.
  • the invention further provides a device for purifying tap water for a shower comprising a filter of which the inlet side is in operative connection with a first connection point of the device and of which the outlet side is in operative connection with a second connection point of the device, wherein the first connection point is suitable for connection to a supply line for tap water and wherein the second connection point is suitable for connection to an exit for filtered water to a shower, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a branch line situated near the inlet side and/or near the outlet side of the filter for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a control unit for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter according to a pre-set program, wherein between the first connection point and the filter a flow-back protection, particularly a non-return valve/one-way valve, is present for preventing water from the device from flowing back into the supply line.
  • a flow-back protection particularly a non-return valve/one-way valve
  • the device is provided with a parallel line for water which is connected to the outlet side of the filter, wherein in the connection between the outlet side of the filter and the second connection point a first valve is provided and wherein the parallel line is provided with a second valve and with a connection to a supply line upstream from the first valve.
  • the invention further provides a device for purifying tap water for a shower comprising a filter of which the inlet side is in operative connection with a first connection point of the device and of which the outlet side is in operative connection with a second connection point of the device, wherein the first connection point is suitable for connection to a supply line for tap water and wherein the second connection point is suitable for connection to an exit for filtered water to a shower, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a branch line situated near the inlet side and/or near the outlet side of the filter for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter, wherein the device is furthermore provided with a control unit for flushing and/or thermal cleansing of the filter according to a pre-set program, provided with a parallel line for water which is connected to the outlet side of the filter, wherein in the connection between the outlet side of the filter and the second connection point a first valve is provided and wherein the parallel line is provided with a second valve and with a connection to a supply line upstream from the first valve.
  • the parallel line may optionally via an own (supplying) branch line be connected near the filter.
  • the provision may be used for flushing with unheated water, but particularly for flushing with hot water (temperature of at least 60 0 C) for thermally cleansing the filter, for which purpose the supply line will be connected to a source of hot water (having a temperature of for instance about 60 0 C to about 70 0 C).
  • a source of hot water having a temperature of for instance about 60 0 C to about 70 0 C.
  • the warm/hot water source may optionally be formed by a boiler or instant-water heater placed near the device. The temperature of the water is such that bacteria are being killed and the filter is not damaged.
  • the second connection point is suitable for direct connection to a showerhead or the hose of a showerhead.
  • the showerhead is connected directly to the second connection point of the device the distance the filtered water has to pass prior to leaving the showerhead is minimised. The risk of the filtered water being contaminated as yet due to contact with (line) surfaces is thus strongly reduced.
  • the device can be entirely housed within a casing, wherein the existing showerheads can be used without modification for connection to the purification device.
  • the showerhead itself no parts of the purification device have been incorporated.
  • the showerhead may easily be held and managed during showering.
  • the showerhead itself after all no parts of the purification device have been incorporated.
  • a branch line is present both at the inlet side and at the outlet side of the filter, so that at both sides of the filter water can be discharged or supplied. In this way a two-sided cleansing of the filter is possible in one process cycle.
  • the branch line(s) can be adjusted to the intended use when the branch line(s) is/are provided with an adjustable valve.
  • the adjustable valve comprises a cock.
  • said cock can be manually adjustable, particularly by a fitter, for setting a constant flush flow rate in the branch line, adjusted to the situation.
  • a fitter for setting a constant flush flow rate in the branch line, adjusted to the situation.
  • flush water deflected from the supplied shower water via the branch line of the upstream side of the filter with which during use a continuous discharge of contaminations and bacteria is achieved.
  • an optional branch line starting there can be used for that purpose.
  • an adjustable valve comprising a valve and flow rate regulator.
  • the branch line(s) is/are connected to a discharge, as a result of which the flush and cleansing water can be discharged, wherein a non-return valve can be accommodated in the branch line to prevent flow-back and avoid an air flow to the filter.
  • the filter may also thus be de-aerated via said branch line.
  • the at least one opening is connected to a discharge, wherein the discharge preferably is provided with a flow rate regulator for managing the flush process. In case of two branch lines their discharge can be joint, using one common valve and/or one common flow rate regulator.
  • the device preferably in the branch line, may be provided with a temperature meter, such as a temperature sensor, for measuring the temperature of the shower water, flushing water and/or cleansing water, which temperature meter gives a measurement signal to the control unit.
  • the control unit may be adapted for on the basis of the measurement signal of the temperature meter operating the signalling means and/or the first and/or second valves, particularly when the temperature measured is below and/or over a standard value.
  • the flushing and thermal cleansing takes place in that order.
  • the discharging branch line is then preferably in any case provided near the inlet side of the filter. During normal use the only discharge of contaminations and bacteria can then take place from that side of the filter.
  • the branch line can be used in a flush cycle with water, which may or may not be heated, which is supplied via the inlet side and is discharged with contaminations and bacteria through the opening that can be closed off.
  • the branch line then preferably is in any case provided near the outlet side of the filter.
  • the device may be provided with an indicator such as a light, giving a signal when flushing and/or thermal cleansing takes place.
  • an indicator such as a light
  • the device may be provided with provided with a pressure sensor for detecting water pressure at the upstream side of the filter as a sign that a user has put the supply line in open connection with the first connection point or filter, wherein the pressure sensor gives a corresponding signal to the control unit.
  • the control unit is then able to establish whether the cleansing program has been completed or not, and based thereon control the device, such as for instance (after a short period) interrupting a cleansing that takes place or preventing that a shower is taken.
  • the filter has been accommodated in a capsule that has been provided with a connection or connections for the branch line(s).
  • the capsule is removably arranged in the device, such as by rapid couplings. Should the filter have to be removed anyway, then the capsule shape facilitates the arrangement and removal of the filter in/out of the device and offers protection to the actual membrane filter. Due to the capsule shape of the filter the device can be designed relatively compact resulting in freedom as regards placement of the purification device in a shower.
  • the means for removing the filter out of the device for replacement comprise rapid couplings.
  • the detaching and arrangement of a filter takes place by "snapping" the filter “off and on” using rapid couplings, which can easily be done by personnel.
  • rapid couplings other types of connection can also be used.
  • the purification device is housed in a closable, fixedly positioned casing.
  • the control unit at least parts thereof, can also be placed in the casing. In an alternative embodiment they can be placed spaced apart from the device, and then be connected to the device by means of conducting wires for controlling the adjustable parts of the device.
  • the filer can be taken out of the device for cleansing or replacement by opening the casing. Subsequently the cleansed filter is placed back or the new filter is placed after which the casing is closed again. The device is then ready to be used again.
  • the casing offers protection to the device, and counteracts vandalism.
  • the casing is particularly of importance in public places such as for instance swimming pools, sports centres for the device not to be damaged as a result of vandalism, and particularly the membrane filter not being destroyed or removed. The supply of legionnella-free shower water is thus optimally maintained.
  • means are provided for attaching the casing against a wall.
  • the whole of purification device and casing may be attached in such a way that it can both be used for showers having a common supply line for water - mainly used in sports centres - and can be used for single showers according to the mixing tap principle (wherein hot and cold water is mixed using a mixing tap) with shower hose.
  • the purification device may for instance be attached against a wall, a panel or pole.
  • the device is composed of modules. Distribution, storage, transport and packaging of the device is facilitated due to the modular build. Mounting the device is simply a matter of attaching the casing and connecting the first connection point to a supply line and attaching the exit of the second connection point.
  • the filter used may be resistant to temperatures of over 60 0 C.
  • the filter may be a membrane filter, preferably having a maximum pore size of 0.2 or 0.22 ⁇ m absolute. Said pore size ensures a large reduction of bacteria such as for instance E-coli, Cryptosporidium, giardia, faecal streptococcus, spores sulphite reducing Clostridia, pseudomonas aeruginosa, salmonella. It is remarked that by using a smaller pore size than 0.2 or 0.22 ⁇ m absolute particles having a size smaller than 0.2 or 0.22 ⁇ m absolute, can be reduced.
  • An example of a suitable filter is a hollow fibre filter FiberFlo by MinnTech Corp., type L I 200 B.
  • the distance between the outlet side of the filter and the second connection point is minimised.
  • the risk of the filtered water being contaminated as yet due to contact with the surface of the line or hose between the filter and the second connection point is strongly reduced.
  • one or more flow rate or pressure regulators can be provided for limiting the water pressure in the filter.
  • a pressure or flow rate regulator can be placed upstream and a pressure or flow rate regulator can be placed downstream from the filter.
  • a flow rate or pressure regulator can be placed upstream from the first connection point, so that the fitter is able to place a pressure regulator adapted to the situation in question.
  • a pressure or flow rate regulator can also be placed upstream from a one-way valve placed upstream from the filter, within the same casing. Damage to the filter as a result of too high pressures or too high pressure differences is prevented by the flow rate or pressure regulator(s).
  • the control unit is adapted for setting the various valves and regulators controlled thereby at the desired function according to the set/programmed program.
  • the invention further provides a shower installation comprising a supply line for tap water having a device according to the invention connected thereto.
  • the shower installation can thus be used in common facilities having several showers such as sports centres, swimming pools etcetera.
  • a hand shower is known the head of which is provided with a Iegionella filter incorporated in an interchangeable cartridge, which filter can be loaded up to a temperature of 5O 0 C.
  • a membrane filter for combating/preventing Legionella, wherein the filter is incorporated in a housing provided with an inlet and two outlets, wherein in one application water entering via the inlet partially flows away via the filter and the first main outlet and partially flows past the filter out of the second outlet for passing back to the inlet. In another application the flow direction is reversed. In a further application water is supplied via the first outlet and discharged through the inlet and the second outlet.
  • Figure 1 shows a diagram of a shower installation which is provided with a purification device according to the invention
  • Figure 2 shows an example in front view of the purification device shown in figure 1 , in a first embodiment, with opened casing, during normal use;
  • Figure 3 shows a front view corresponding to figure 2, now however, during cleansing.
  • the shower installation 1 shown in figure 1 for a common facility comprises a number (for instance twenty) identical shower units 21 one of which is shown in figure 1 .
  • Each shower unit 21 has a corresponding modular purification device 2.
  • One purification device 2 is shown in detail.
  • the shower units are connected to a (common) supply line 3 by means of corresponding branches 35.
  • each purification unit can also be placed individually in a shower cubicle of a residence, holiday home and the like.
  • the purification device 2 is accommodated in a casing 17, for instance made of synthetic material of metal, which is provided with a door that can be closed off.
  • the device 2 comprises a line 15, 16 for shower water, which extends from connection 30a for a water mains to connection 12 for a shower hose or showerhead 5.
  • connection 30a of the purification device 2 is connected by means of attachment means 1 1 to the corresponding branch 35 of the water supply line 3.
  • the purification device 2 is also provided with an (optional) connection 30b which instead of connection 30a can be used for connection to a supply line in case the purification device 2 is connected to a mixing tap for mixing cold and hot water (connection 30a is situated at a different location on the housing 17 than connection 30b is).
  • a flow rate regulator 4 Accommodated in the line 15, 16 are consecutively a flow rate regulator 4, a non-return valve 9 that automatically closes when the water supply system pressure falls out, a filter 6 accommodated in a capsule, an electromagnetic valve 31 , and, at the connection point 12, a flow rate regulator 8. Because of the flow rate regulators 4 and 8, each filter 6 is protected per se against damage as a result of too high pressures in the pipe system.
  • a flow-back protection 23 may optionally be provided in the common supply line 3.
  • the non-return valves 9, 23 are preferably selected in accordance with NEN 1717.
  • Attachment means 10 have been provided to attach the filter 6 in the lines 15, 16 of the purification device 2 and to detach it therefrom for cleansing or replacing it.
  • the length of the line section 16 is short so that the water filtered by the filter 6 is discharged as quickly as possible to a showerhead or shower hose with showerhead 5. The risk of the filtered water being contaminated as yet due to contact with the surface of hose/pipe 16 is thus minimised.
  • a flush line 18 extends, from connection 19, via an electromagnetic valve 14, up into the line 16, immediately downstream from the outlet side of the filter 6, at 81 .
  • a line section 82 extends between point 81 and the valve 31 .
  • the filter 6 is a filter with hollow fibres 90, for instance filter FiberFlo by MinnTech Corp., for instance type L I 200 B.
  • the filter 6 is provided with branch openings 40a,b, at several distances from the distance to the outflow side of the filter.
  • the branch openings 40a, b offer access to branch lines 42a, b.
  • the openings 40a, b can be closed off/opened, respectively, with manually adjustable valves 44a,b in branch lines 42a, b. If the valves are open/close valves, flow rate regulators 43a, b can be additionally accommodated in the branch lines 42a, b (figure 1 ).
  • Temperature sensors 13a,b are accommodated in the branch lines 42a, b upstream or downstream from the valves 44a, b.
  • non-return valves 46a, b are accommodated in the branch lines.
  • the branch lines 42a, b are joined in a discharge line 51 , having debouchment 52 projecting from the casing 17, which debouchment can be connected to a further discharge, if so desired.
  • the lines 42a, b, the flow rate regulators 43a, b, the valves 44a, b, the temperature sensors 13a,b and the non-return valves 46a, b are designed single.
  • a branch opening 40c is provided at the downstream side of the filter 6, which debouches in a branch line 42c, that leads to the discharge line 51 , also via temperature sensor 13c, flow rate regulator 43c, valve 44c and nonreturn valve 46c.
  • connection 30a comes at water pressure and water flows in the direction a, through the line 15, through the valve 9, through the filter 6, through line sections 81 , 82, through valve 31 , through connection 12 and out of the shower 5 (figure 2).
  • valves (cocks) 44a, b may have been set by a fitter beforehand at a certain flow rate, for instance 1 A litre/minute. The filter is then already automatically flushed during showering.
  • the line 18 can be connected to a supply of (hot) water (over 6O 0 C), that is not further shown, and/or to a supply of unheated flush water.
  • water for cleansing the filter 6 can be urged via point 81 and from the outlet side, so opposite the usual flow direction, through the filter 6.
  • the valves 44a, b,c the water including contaminations and bacteria can be discharged via branch openings 40a, b,c, branch lines 42a, b,c, discharge line 51 and exit 52. This is indicated by arrows B in figure 3.
  • the cleansing of the filter 6 preferably takes place by means of conventional thermal cleansing using hot water, preferably between 60 and 7O 0 C.
  • the valve 31 ensures minimisation of the risk of scalding during cleansing: the hot (flush) water cannot flow to the showerhead 5.
  • the filter 6 can be thermally cleansed or just be flushed.
  • flushing can also take place via line 15, wherein the valves 31 and 14 are closed and the valve 44a, b and 44c are opened, so that the filter 6 is flushed and flush water can be discharged via branch line 42a, b and 42c, discharge line 51 and exit 52, so that a removal of bacteria takes place at both sides of the filter 6.
  • a control unit 100 For carrying out one or more programs for flushing and/or cleansing the purification device 2 inside or outside of the casing 17 is provided with a control unit 100, in which are accommodated among others a setting panel 101 , a timer 102 and memory/comparator 103.
  • the measurement signals of the various sensors in the purification device 2 are processed by the control device 100 and on the basis of said signals and the set program the various valves are controlled.
  • the casing is locked so that the user is unable to change the setting in the control unit 100 by himself, which control unit may have been adjusted to the situation at that location (optional several parallel shower installations) via setting panel 101 , so that the flush operation can remain optimal and not be -accidentally- deteriorated by personal adjustment.
  • the temperature sensors 13a,b,c may during showering always measure whether the shower water is or will not become too hot.
  • the control unit can be adapted for closing the valve 31 , so that in case there is a risk of scalding, particularly dangerous in institutions and in nursing institutions, the showering can be interrupted. Due to the branch lines 42a, b water always passes by a temperature sensor during showering.
  • the filter 6 can also, optionally permanently, be de-aerated, wherein the one-way valves 46a, b,c, prevent an air flow to the filter.
  • the control unit 100 may receive a measurement signal from the temperature sensor(s) 13, and may control one or more of the said valves (if the valves 44a, b,c, are hand operated cocks they are not) as well as the optional (if the valves 44a, b,c are provided with them, as separate regulators) flow rate regulators.
  • the program can be set via adjustment panel 101 as regards duration, frequency and temperature of flushing and cleansing. If the program is not or has not been carried out as it should be the control unit is able to keep the valve 31 closed and via the red light 61 a warning signal can be given.
  • the control unit is able to give a safe signal via green light 60, so that the user is sure that it is safe to take a shower. If the green light is not on, the user knows that he should be careful as the system has not yet or has not sufficiently been cleansed.
  • the lights 60, 61 may optionally be combined in a single light having two colours.
  • the control unit 100 may by means of the timer 102 and the comparator 103 determine whether a filter has been timely replaced (for instance after 12 months). If the term has been exceeded, this can be indicated by the red light 60. The valve 31 can then be kept closed by the control unit.
  • the filter 6 has to be replaced or cleansed when the quality of the tap water or the flow rate of the outgoing shower water gives reason to do so.
  • Normal use relates to the values mentioned below for the quantity of medium to be filtered and the flow rate of the medium to be filtered, respectively.
  • the filter 6 should at least be replaced once a year, also in case of minimal use.
  • the filter 6 preferably is a membrane filter, tested according to the HIMA method, for 0.2 ⁇ m membranes 10 7 reduction Brevundimonas diminuta (ATCC 19146 bacterium/cm 2 ) (ASTM designation: F838-83 (reapproved 1988) standard test method for determining bacterial retention of membrane filters utilised for liquid filtration)
  • the filter 6 may also be tested in accordance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements.
  • the maximum quantity of incoming tap water to be filtered is determined by a) the size of the filter 6 and the filter surface, b) by a maximum flow rate as set by means of the flow rate regulator 8, c) by the showerhead or shower hose with showerhead 5 and an optionally built-in flow rate regulator.
  • the flow rate regulator (optionally) built-in into the showerhead 5 needs to be suitable for regulating the flow rate through the purification device 2 in the desired manner.
  • the quantity of tap water that can be treated with the membrane filter 6 further depends on the quality of the tap water.
  • the filter 6 is suitable for purifying some (tens of) thousands of litres of tap water (in case of suitably selected size of the membrane filter 6). According to the rules the filter 6 should be replaced when it is saturated. The removal of legionella bacteria thus is ensured in case of a sufficiently large volume flow of exiting shower water.
  • the attachment means 10 the membrane filter 6 can be placed and removed/replaced, respectively, in one simple action.
  • each purification device 2 connected to the supply line 3 for tap water, is provided with said flow rate regulators 4 and 8 the maximum pressure occurring at the location of the filter 6 is limited. In that way damage to the filter 6 as a result of too high a pressure or too high pressure differences is prevented.
  • the filter 6 can simply be detached/arranged because the attachment means 10 are designed as rapid couplings. Apart from rapid couplings other types of connections can also be used.
  • the attachment means 12 are for instance designed like a threaded hole so that the showerhead 5 or shower hose with showerhead 5 can be screwed thereon directly.
  • connections 1 1 , 12 and 19 may during production be adjusted to the location it is intended to be placed: for instance at the wall or against a ceiling, wherein the connections can then be situated on the right-hand side, on the left-hand side, above, below or at the rear of the casing
  • a pressure gauge 70 is situated, which is connected to the control unit 100, with which it can be detected that the user has opened the tap and that water pressure is on the line 15. Based on the signal received from the pressure sensor, the control unit is able to control several actions. For instance, if the flush/cleansing program has not been completed yet and the user wishes to take a shower anyway, the setting can be such that the control unit will interrupt the cleansing. After an interval of for instance 1 minute, during which the hot cleansing water can be discharged from the filter, the device is released for showering. The valve 31 is then opened. The valve 14 has then already been closed. After showering the program can be resumed, based on the log stored in the memory of the control unit. Alternatively the control unit can be adapted for keeping the valve 31 closed if the cleansing program has not been completed yet, so that no shower can be taken, for reasons of safety.

Landscapes

  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Bathtubs, Showers, And Their Attachments (AREA)
  • Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)

Abstract

La présente invention concerne un dispositif destiné à purifier l'eau du robinet d'une douche comprenant un filtre (6) dont le côté d'entrée est en connexion opérationnelle avec un premier point de connexion du dispositif et dont le côté de sortie est en connexion opérationnelle avec un second point de connexion du dispositif, dans lequel le premier point de connexion est adapté pour être connecté à une canalisation (13) d'eau du robinet et dans lequel le second point de connexion est adapté pour être connecté à une sortie d'eau filtrée vers une douche (5), le dispositif étant en outre muni d'une canalisation de ramification (18) située à proximité du côté d'entrée et/ou à proximité du côté de sortie du filtre pour le rinçage et/ou le nettoyage thermique du filtre, le dispositif étant enfin pourvu d'une unité de commande (100) pour le rinçage et/ou le nettoyage thermique du filtre selon un programme préréglé et de moyens de signalisation destinés à communiquer un signal visuel indiquant une étape du programme exécuté.
EP05822133A 2004-12-15 2005-12-15 Dispositif de douche avec protection contre les legionella Withdrawn EP1866252A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL1027748A NL1027748C2 (nl) 2004-12-15 2004-12-15 Douche-inrichting met beveiliging tegen legionella.
PCT/NL2005/000863 WO2006065120A1 (fr) 2004-12-15 2005-12-15 Dispositif de douche avec protection contre les legionella

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1866252A1 true EP1866252A1 (fr) 2007-12-19

Family

ID=34974678

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP05822133A Withdrawn EP1866252A1 (fr) 2004-12-15 2005-12-15 Dispositif de douche avec protection contre les legionella

Country Status (3)

Country Link
EP (1) EP1866252A1 (fr)
NL (1) NL1027748C2 (fr)
WO (1) WO2006065120A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE202015103694U1 (de) 2015-07-14 2016-10-17 Grünbeck Wasseraufbereitung GmbH Sicherungseinrichtung zur Absicherung einer Trinkwasserinstallation gegenüber einem Trinkwasser oder Nichttrinkwasser führenden Wasserleitungssystem
DE102019106128A1 (de) * 2019-03-11 2020-09-17 Rehau Ag + Co Verfahren zum Spülen einer leitungsgebundenen Trinkwasserabgabevorrichtung sowie dazu eingerichtete leitungsgebundene Trinkwasserabgabevorrichtung
ES2922151A1 (es) * 2021-02-26 2022-09-09 Caspro Sa Sistema para el control de temperatura de una ducha electronica

Family Cites Families (8)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3918468A1 (de) * 1988-06-06 1990-04-19 Symbiopharm Dr Volker Rusch Gm Wasseraustrittsarmatur
JPH0824842A (ja) * 1994-07-14 1996-01-30 Toray Ind Inc 浄水器およびシャワー装置
US5935426A (en) * 1997-08-08 1999-08-10 Teledyne Industries, Inc., A California Corporation Water treatment device with volumetric and time monitoring features
DE10115633A1 (de) * 2001-03-23 2002-09-26 Fuma Tech Gmbh Gewinnung von im wesentlichen keimfreiem Wasser
JP5090593B2 (ja) * 2001-05-23 2012-12-05 三菱レイヨン株式会社 浄水カートリッジ
NL1020607C2 (nl) * 2002-05-15 2003-11-18 Prime Water Systems Gmbh Vloeistofdoorstroominrichting.
NL1023332C2 (nl) * 2003-05-02 2004-11-03 Norit Proces Technologie Holdi Membraanfilter met ontluchting en werkwijze voor de vervaardiging daarvan.
DE202004004153U1 (de) * 2004-03-17 2004-05-19 Kuhfuß Sanitär-Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH Duschvorrichtung

Non-Patent Citations (1)

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Title
See references of WO2006065120A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2006065120A1 (fr) 2006-06-22
NL1027748C2 (nl) 2006-06-22

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