EP2210988B1 - Device for contactless actuation of a flushing valve - Google Patents

Device for contactless actuation of a flushing valve Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2210988B1
EP2210988B1 EP10151536.9A EP10151536A EP2210988B1 EP 2210988 B1 EP2210988 B1 EP 2210988B1 EP 10151536 A EP10151536 A EP 10151536A EP 2210988 B1 EP2210988 B1 EP 2210988B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
control unit
cover plate
cistern
display device
sensor
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EP10151536.9A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2210988A2 (en
EP2210988A3 (en
Inventor
Ulrich Kuhbier
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Viega Technology GmbH and Co KG
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Viega Technology GmbH and Co KG
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Publication of EP2210988A2 publication Critical patent/EP2210988A2/en
Publication of EP2210988A3 publication Critical patent/EP2210988A3/en
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    • 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
    • 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
    • E03D5/02—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor
    • 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
    • E03D5/02—Special constructions of flushing devices, e.g. closed flushing system operated mechanically or hydraulically (or pneumatically) also details such as push buttons, levers and pull-card therefor
    • E03D5/028—Pusher plates and actuating mechanisms for built-in cisterns

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a device for non-contact triggering of Spülkastenventils, with a cover plate to cover an inspection opening of a cistern, an electronic control, an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a Spülkastenventils and a display device, wherein the controller, a water level sensor for detecting the Spülkastenhellstandes is connected ,
  • Such devices typically have a proximity sensor and are commonly used in urinals.
  • the known devices are provided with an electronic control that triggers a rinse only when a person dwells a certain time in the detection range of the proximity sensor.
  • the flushing process is triggered only when the person leaves the detection range of the proximity sensor.
  • an unwanted flushing process always occurs whenever a person, without intended use of the associated urinal, stays in the detection range of the proximity sensor for a specific time and then leaves the detection area.
  • the cistern comprises a box body for storing flushing water, a filling valve for filling the cistern with flushing water, a drain valve, a flushing operation actuator, a flushing and filling control controller, and a box body electronic detection means.
  • the means for electronic detection of the level are designed so that they detect the level of the box body continuously.
  • an input device connected to the control device is arranged in the box body, at which freely selectable values can be set by turning adjusting knobs, which each correspond to a filling level. In the normal state of use of the cistern, the input device is covered by the front wall of the box body or the cover of the inspection opening of the box body.
  • a device for controlling a toilet cistern comprising leak and overflow detection elements for preventing leakage.
  • the apparatus includes inlet and outlet flow sensors that are pilot-connected to inlet and outlet valves and water level sensors for measuring and controlling the water supply to and from the toilet.
  • the water level sensors are in the toilet cistern arranged and connected to the control device to control the volume of water supplied to the cistern and flowing through the outlet.
  • the cistern may have a movable reservoir to more accurately control the amount of water held in the cistern and the amount of water discharged during the flushing process.
  • the cistern is provided with a push button or a motion detector.
  • the control device may comprise a display device arranged on the front side of the cistern and having one or more indicator lights.
  • the present invention has for its object to provide a device of the type mentioned above, which excludes unwanted rinsing, is particularly suitable for combination with a toilet cistern and the user facilitates the operation of a cistern.
  • the device comprises a cover plate for covering an inspection opening of a cistern, an electronic control, an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a Spülkastenventils and a display device, wherein the controller is connected to a water level sensor for detecting Spülkastenhellstandes.
  • the controller On the control is also a sensor matrix for non-contact detection of Connected to body movements, wherein the controller is provided with a memory for storing at least one of the sensor matrix output signal value and an evaluation device for comparing a signal output from the sensor array signal value with at least one stored, at least one body movement associated signal value.
  • the cover plate is provided with the display device, wherein the display device is designed to display a triggered flush and the current Spülkasten Stahl.
  • the device according to the invention allows a non-contact triggering of a toilet or urinal Spülkastenventils by a teachable hand movement, which causes one or more sensor signals or one or more signal values, which are compared by the evaluation with one or more stored, a body movement associated signal values, wherein the controller causes a triggering of the Spülkastenventils in accordance with the compared signal values within a predetermined tolerance range. In this way unwanted flushing operations are safely excluded.
  • various hand movements can be taught.
  • the signal values or signal value sequences produced by the hand movements can be assigned the same but also to different control commands and the corresponding assignments can be stored in the memory. It is thus possible, a certain hand movement or the hand movement Assign corresponding signal values to a purging triggering control command, and to assign another specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to this hand movement to a control command for a rinse-stop function.
  • the invention likewise makes it possible to use the so-called two-volume flushing technique by assigning a specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to the hand movement to a control command triggering a partial flush and another specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to this hand movement to a control command triggering a full flush ,
  • the device according to the invention makes it possible to learn several hand movements in order to be able to exercise a two-volume flushing technique in combination with a rinse-off function.
  • the display device and the water level sensor results in terms of different rinsing functions, in particular the two-volume technique, a comfortable operation of the device according to the invention.
  • the user of the device according to the invention can be given by the display device in particular an optical feedback on the triggered rinse function or the selected flushing.
  • the user of the device according to the invention by means of the water level sensor and the display device can also be given an optical feedback about the rinsing time or the current water level in the cistern.
  • the current water level in the cistern may be of interest to the user, for example, if he wants to initiate a final rinse.
  • the sensor matrix for non-contact detection of body movements is formed according to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention from a plurality of optical, electronic elements.
  • Such a sensor matrix can be realized inexpensively and builds relatively flat, so that the sensor matrix requires little construction depth and offers very good design freedom with regard to the design of the cover plate.
  • the sensor matrix is preferably formed from those infrared-based optical electronic elements. This can prevent false triggering by sun rays and light rays that emanate from a conventional room lighting.
  • the cover plate is formed by a semi-transparent glass or plastic plate, wherein the sensor matrix and the display device are arranged on the back of the cover plate.
  • the sensor matrix and the display device are virtually "hidden" behind the cover plate.
  • the display device of the device according to the invention is formed according to a further preferred embodiment of at least one electroluminescent film and / or a plurality of light-emitting diodes.
  • the display device can thus be made very flat, so that it requires very little installation depth. Furthermore, such a display device is characterized by a relatively low energy consumption.
  • an approach sensor which activates the display device can be connected to the controller of the device according to the invention.
  • a user of the cistern for example, be signaled that to trigger a flushing a hand movement in front of the cover is executed or that initially at least one hand movement learned, associated with a flushing function and the assignment must be stored in the device.
  • a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention is characterized in that the actuator for actuating the Spülkastenventils is designed as a linear drive.
  • This embodiment allows the use of a flexible Bowden cable as a power transmission element between the actuator and the Spülkastenventil.
  • control of the device according to the invention is additionally provided with control elements in addition to the sensor matrix, the memory and the evaluation, which can be designed as non-contact actuated controls or as touch-sensitive controls.
  • a section of a cistern 1 is shown, which is preferably designed as a concealed cistern and has an inspection opening 2 on its front side.
  • the cistern 1 shown vertically and horizontally is intended for a toilet or urinal and provided with a device according to the invention for non-contact, movement-controlled triggering of a cistern valve 3.
  • the device comprises inter alia an electronic control 4 and an electro-magnetic actuator 5 for actuating the Spülkastenventils (see Figures 2 and 3 ).
  • the device according to the invention comprises a cover plate or actuating plate 6, preferably made of a semitransparent glass or plastic plate is formed and is arranged in front of the inspection opening 2 of the cistern 1, so that it closes or covers the inspection opening 2.
  • the one-piece cover plate 6 is provided on the back with a fastening element 7 which is detachably connectable to a base frame 8 associated with the inspection opening 2.
  • the base frame 8 is attached to a wall opening, which lies in register with the access opening 2 of the cistern 1.
  • the base frame 8 consists for example of a one-piece injection-molded part, which is preferably made of plastic. He has at its front a circumferential flange 8.1, at the inner edges of a rear projecting collar 8.2 connects. At the collar 8.2 support webs 8.3 are formed, which have a complex, three-dimensional shape. Arranged on parallel to the flange 8.1, with respect to this recessed web sections 8.4 apertures 8.5 for receiving bolts (not shown) are formed.
  • the bolts are screwed into the cistern 1 or arranged in front of this wall.
  • the rear side of the flange 8.1 is located on the front side of a wall covering surrounding the inspection opening 2 of the cistern 1, for example a tile covering.
  • the base frame 8 also has close to the inner corners of its flange 8.1 or collar 8.2 recesses (openings) 8.6, 8.7 for releasably securing the fastener 7.
  • the fastening element 7 is designed as an insertable into the base frame 8 mounting frame. It points in a common plane arranged flanges or webs 7.1, at the back of the recesses 8.6, 8.7 of the base frame 8 associated clip elements in the form of resilient locking tongues 7.2 and bolt-shaped centering or guide elements 7.3 are formed.
  • the fastening element 7 is glued with its flanges 7.1 on the back of the cover plate 6.
  • the controller 4 of the device according to the invention is at least partially disposed in a housing which is arranged on the back of the cover plate 6 and is thereby received by the mounting frame 7 or base frame 8 (see. Fig. 3 ).
  • the housing or the controller 4 is glued to the back of the cover plate 6.
  • all electronic traces and / or electrical contact surfaces of the controller 4 are laminated to the back of the cover plate 6.
  • the controller 4 is provided with a power supply cable 4.1 and a control cables containing cable 4.2, the latter being connected to the actuator 5, which operates the Spülkastenventil (drain valve) 3.
  • the actuator 5 is designed as a linear electric actuator. It is mounted in a arranged on the back of the base frame bracket 9, which is closed by a removable cover 10, stored and coupled with a flexible Bowden cable 11 ( Fig. 1 ). The linear actuating movement of the actuator 5 is transmitted via the Bowden cable 11 to a (not shown) lever mechanism, by means of which a trained as an overflow valve body 12 can be raised by a valve seat 13 of the Spülkastenventils 3. The lever mechanism is mounted in a holder 14 connected to a housing-shaped valve body guide. With 15 a second Bowden cable is designated, which is used for manual actuation of the Spülkastenventils 3 in case of power failure or maintenance.
  • the controller 4 is provided with a (not shown) sensor matrix for non-contact detection of body movements.
  • the sensor matrix is formed from a multiplicity of optical, electronic elements which preferably operate on the basis of infrared.
  • the sensor matrix is preferably also glued or laminated to the back of the cover plate 6.
  • the optical, electronic elements of the sensor matrix can be, for example, proximity sensors and / or charge-coupled semiconductor components (so-called CCD elements).
  • the sensor matrix comprises, for example, 16 such proximity sensors or semiconductor components which are arranged in grid or matrix form.
  • the sensor matrix of the device according to the invention may also comprise more or fewer than 16 such sensors or elements.
  • the evaluation of the signals emitted by the sensor matrix is carried out by an evaluation device, which is preferably formed by a microcontroller circuit.
  • the controller 4 of the device according to the invention has a memory in which signal values output by the sensor matrix can be stored.
  • the evaluation device or microcontroller circuit compares the signal values output by the sensor matrix with the stored signal values assigned to the body movement (s).
  • the evaluation device can thus different hand movements, especially hand movement directions, such as hand movements to the right, left, up and / or down, but also letters and / or numbers representing hand signals and any other hand movements evaluate and trigger according to assignable specifications a desired rinse function.
  • the cover plate (actuator plate) 6 is further provided with a display device to give the user of the cistern 1 an optical feedback on a triggered flushing function or to display the current water level in the cistern 1.
  • a water level sensor for detecting the Spülkastenhellstandes is connected to the controller 4.
  • the water level sensor (not shown) is preferably designed as an optical or as a float-controlled water level sensor.
  • the display device is arranged on the rear side of the cover plate (actuating plate) 6 and formed by at least one electroluminescent film and / or a plurality of light-emitting diodes.
  • a triggered rinse, the optionally selected amount of rinse water and / or the Spülkastenhellstand are preferred by the display device indicated by defined symbols or icons (pictograms).
  • the cover plate 6 is designed in conjunction with the display device such that in the so-called stand-by state (operational readiness state) no symbols or icons on the surface (visible side) of the cover plate 6 can be seen (see. Fig. 4 ).
  • a visual indication of a triggered flushing, optionally selected flushing water quantity (eg full or partial flushing) and / or Spülkasten Stahl sleepllstands takes place only when a flushing function was triggered by a specific associated hand movement in the sensor matrix or if connected by a connected to the controller 4
  • Proximity sensor (not shown) has detected the presence of a person in a certain area in front of the cover plate 6.
  • the display device on three vertically extending rows of light emitting diodes 16, 17, 18.
  • the right row of LEDs 18 shows the quality of the Spülkastenhellstand, while the other two rows of light emitting diodes 16, 17 are used to display the triggered flushing water quantity.
  • the left row of light emitting diodes 16 serves to display a full flush, whereas the shorter row of light emitting diodes 17 is assigned to a partial flush.
  • a situation is shown in which the display device displays a full flushing triggered by a corresponding hand movement with a relatively large or maximum amount of flushing water.
  • the LEDs of the display device may preferably be multicolored light emitting diodes, for example, both green and red light can.
  • a situation is shown in which a partial flush was triggered. This is signaled by the fact that the light emitting diodes of the shorter row 17 shine brighter or in a different color than the LEDs of the left, longer row 16.
  • the cistern 1 is not or not fully filled for this, because the top LED of the right row of light emitting diode 18th glows less bright or in a different color than the other LEDs of this series 18. This means that in the in Fig. 6 illustrated situation about one sixth of the maximum level of the cistern 1 are missing or have already expired.
  • the Control 4 of the Device For the assignment of a freely definable hand movement or caused by the hand movement, emitted by the sensor matrix sensor signal value sequence to a rinsing function, in particular the opening of the Spülkastenventils 3 for a full or partial flushing and closing the Spülkastenventils 3 (rinse stop function), is the Control 4 of the Device according to the invention provided with controls (not shown).
  • the learning of a hand movement is preferably supported by the display device by the menu-guided by the user receives hints for input, assignment and storage.
  • the controls provided for this purpose preferably consist of contactlessly operable controls.
  • controller 4 it is also within the scope of the present invention to provide the controller 4 with touch-sensitive operating elements in order to assign a learned hand movement or the corresponding sensor signal value sequence to a rinsing function and to store the assignment in the memory of the device according to the invention.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Vorrichtung zur berührungslosen Auslösung eines Spülkastenventils, mit einer Abdeckplatte zur Abdeckung einer Revisionsöffnung eines Spülkastens, einer elektronischen Steuerung, einem elektro-magnetischen Stellantrieb zur Betätigung eines Spülkastenventils und einer Anzeigeeinrichtung, wobei an der Steuerung ein Wasserstandssensor zur Erfassung des Spülkastenfüllstandes angeschlossen ist.The invention relates to a device for non-contact triggering of Spülkastenventils, with a cover plate to cover an inspection opening of a cistern, an electronic control, an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a Spülkastenventils and a display device, wherein the controller, a water level sensor for detecting the Spülkastenfüllstandes is connected ,

Derartige Vorrichtungen weisen üblicherweise einen Annäherungssensor auf und werden häufig bei Urinalen verwendet. Um ungewollte Spülvorgänge bei kurzzeitigen Annäherungen an den Annäherungssensor zu verhindern, sind die bekannten Vorrichtungen mit einer elektronischen Steuerung versehen, die einen Spülvorgang nur dann auslöst, wenn eine Person eine bestimmte Zeit im Erfassungsbereich des Annäherungssensors verweilt. Der Spülvorgang wird dabei erst dann ausgelöst, wenn die Person den Erfassungsbereich des Annäherungssensors verlässt. Gleichwohl kommt es bei diesen bekannten Vorrichtungen aber immer dann zu einem ungewollten Spülvorgang, wenn sich eine Person ohne Benutzungsabsicht des zugeordneten Urinals im Erfassungsbereich des Annäherungssensors für eine bestimmte Zeit aufhält und den Erfassungsbereich dann verlässt.Such devices typically have a proximity sensor and are commonly used in urinals. In order to prevent unwanted rinsing in short-term approaches to the proximity sensor, the known devices are provided with an electronic control that triggers a rinse only when a person dwells a certain time in the detection range of the proximity sensor. The flushing process is triggered only when the person leaves the detection range of the proximity sensor. However, in these known devices, an unwanted flushing process always occurs whenever a person, without intended use of the associated urinal, stays in the detection range of the proximity sensor for a specific time and then leaves the detection area.

In Verbindung mit WC-Spülkästen sind Vorrichtungen der oben genannten Art in der Praxis unüblich.In connection with toilet cisterns devices of the above type are unusual in practice.

In der EP 1 156 166 A2 , welche als nächstliegender Stand der Technik angesehen wird, ist ein Spülkasten für eine Klosettanlage beschrieben. Der Spülkasten weist einen Kastenkörper zum Speichern von Spülwasser, ein Füllventil zum Füllen des Spülkastens mit Spülwasser, ein Ablaufventil, eine Betätigungsvorrichtung zur Auslösung einer Spülung, eine Steuervorrichtung zur Steuerung des Spül- und Füllvorgangs und Mittel zur elektronischen Erfassung des Füllstandes des Kastenkörpers auf. Die Mittel zur elektronischen Erfassung des Füllstandes sind dabei so ausgebildet, dass sie den Füllstand des Kastenkörpers stufenlos erfassen. Ferner ist in dem Kastenkörper eine mit der Steuervorrichtung verbundene Eingabevorrichtung angeordnet, an welcher durch Drehen von Einstellknöpfen frei wählbare Werte einstellbar sind, die jeweils einem Füllstand entsprechen. Im normalen Gebrauchszustand des Spülkastens ist die Eingabevorrichtung durch die Frontwand des Kastenkörpers bzw. die Abdeckung der Revisionsöffnung des Kastenkörpers verdeckt.In the EP 1 156 166 A2 , which is considered as the closest prior art, a cistern for a toilet system is described. The cistern comprises a box body for storing flushing water, a filling valve for filling the cistern with flushing water, a drain valve, a flushing operation actuator, a flushing and filling control controller, and a box body electronic detection means. The means for electronic detection of the level are designed so that they detect the level of the box body continuously. Furthermore, an input device connected to the control device is arranged in the box body, at which freely selectable values can be set by turning adjusting knobs, which each correspond to a filling level. In the normal state of use of the cistern, the input device is covered by the front wall of the box body or the cover of the inspection opening of the box body.

Aus der US-A-6 877 170 ist eine Vorrichtung zur Steuerung eines Toilettenspülkastens bekannt, die Leckage- und Überlauferfassungselemente zur Verhinderung einer Leckage umfasst. Die Vorrichtung weist Einlass- und Auslass-Durchflusssensoren auf, die steuerungstechnisch mit Einlass- und Auslassventilen sowie Wasserstandsensoren verbunden sind, um den Wasserzulauf zu und aus der Toilette zu messen und zu steuern. Die Wasserstandsensoren sind in dem Toiletten-Spülkasten angeordnet und mit der Steuerungsvorrichtung verbunden, um das dem Spülkasten zugeführte und das durch den Auslass fließende Wasservolumen zu steuern. Der Spülkasten kann dabei ein bewegliches Reservoir aufweisen, um die in dem Spülkasten gehaltene Wassermenge und beim Spülvorgang abgegebene Wassermenge genauer zu steuern. Zur Auslösung eines Spülvorgangs bzw. Betätigung eines Spülkastenventils ist der Spülkasten mit einem Druckknopf oder einem Bewegungsdetektor versehen. Des Weiteren kann die Steuerungsvorrichtung eine auf der Vorderseite des Spülkastens angeordnete Anzeigeeinrichtung umfassen, die eine oder mehrere Anzeigeleuchten aufweist.From the US-A-6,877,170 For example, a device for controlling a toilet cistern comprising leak and overflow detection elements for preventing leakage is known. The apparatus includes inlet and outlet flow sensors that are pilot-connected to inlet and outlet valves and water level sensors for measuring and controlling the water supply to and from the toilet. The water level sensors are in the toilet cistern arranged and connected to the control device to control the volume of water supplied to the cistern and flowing through the outlet. The cistern may have a movable reservoir to more accurately control the amount of water held in the cistern and the amount of water discharged during the flushing process. To trigger a rinse or actuation of a Spülkastenventils the cistern is provided with a push button or a motion detector. Furthermore, the control device may comprise a display device arranged on the front side of the cistern and having one or more indicator lights.

Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Vorrichtung der eingangs genannten Art bereitzustellen, die ungewollte Spülvorgänge ausschließt, sich insbesondere für eine Kombination mit einem WC-Spülkasten eignet und dem Benutzer die Bedienung eines Spülkastens erleichtert.The present invention has for its object to provide a device of the type mentioned above, which excludes unwanted rinsing, is particularly suitable for combination with a toilet cistern and the user facilitates the operation of a cistern.

Gelöst wird diese Aufgabe durch eine Vorrichtung mit den Merkmalen des Anspruchs 1.This object is achieved by a device having the features of claim 1.

Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung umfasst eine Abdeckplatte zur Abdeckung einer Revisionsöffnung eines Spülkastens, eine elektronische Steuerung, einen elektro-magnetischen Stellantrieb zur Betätigung eines Spülkastenventils und eine Anzeigeeinrichtung, wobei an der Steuerung ein Wasserstandssensor zur Erfassung des Spülkastenfüllstandes angeschlossen ist. An der Steuerung ist zudem eine Sensormatrix zur berührungslosen Erfassung von Körperbewegungen angeschlossen, wobei die Steuerung mit einem Speicher zur Speicherung mindestens eines von der Sensormatrix abgegebenen Signalwertes und einer Auswerteeinrichtung zum Vergleich eines von der Sensormatrix abgegebenen Signalwertes mit mindestens einem gespeicherten, mindestens einer Körperbewegung zugeordneten Signalwert versehen ist. Die Abdeckplatte ist mit der Anzeigeeinrichtung versehen, wobei die Anzeigeeinrichtung ausgeführt ist, eine ausgelöste Spülung und den aktuellen Spülkastenfüllstand anzuzeigen.The device according to the invention comprises a cover plate for covering an inspection opening of a cistern, an electronic control, an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a Spülkastenventils and a display device, wherein the controller is connected to a water level sensor for detecting Spülkastenfüllstandes. On the control is also a sensor matrix for non-contact detection of Connected to body movements, wherein the controller is provided with a memory for storing at least one of the sensor matrix output signal value and an evaluation device for comparing a signal output from the sensor array signal value with at least one stored, at least one body movement associated signal value. The cover plate is provided with the display device, wherein the display device is designed to display a triggered flush and the current Spülkastenfüllstand.

Die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung ermöglicht eine berührungslose Auslösung eines WC- oder Urinal-Spülkastenventils durch eine einlernbare Handbewegung, die ein oder mehrere Sensorsignale bzw. einen oder mehrere Signalwerte hervorruft, die von der Auswerteeinrichtung mit einem oder mehreren gespeicherten, einer Körperbewegung zugeordneten Signalwerten verglichen werden, wobei die Steuerung bei Übereinstimmung der verglichenen Signalwerte innerhalb eines vorgebbaren Toleranzbereiches eine Auslösung des Spülkastenventils bewirkt. Auf diese Weise werden ungewollte Spülvorgänge sicher ausgeschlossen.The device according to the invention allows a non-contact triggering of a toilet or urinal Spülkastenventils by a teachable hand movement, which causes one or more sensor signals or one or more signal values, which are compared by the evaluation with one or more stored, a body movement associated signal values, wherein the controller causes a triggering of the Spülkastenventils in accordance with the compared signal values within a predetermined tolerance range. In this way unwanted flushing operations are safely excluded.

In die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung können verschiedene Handbewegungen eingelernt werden. Die von den Handbewegungen hervorgerufenen Signalwerte oder Signalwertfolgen können dabei gleichen aber auch unterschiedlichen Steuerbefehlen zugeordnet und die entsprechenden Zuordnungen in dem Speicher abgespeichert werden. Es ist somit möglich, eine bestimmte Handbewegung bzw. die der Handbewegung entsprechenden Signalwerte einem eine Spülung auslösenden Steuerbefehl zuzuordnen, und eine andere bestimmte Handbewegung bzw. die dieser Handbewegung entsprechenden Signalwerte einem Steuerbefehl für eine Spülstopp-Funktion zuzuordnen. Ebenso ermöglicht die Erfindung die Anwendung der so genannten Zwei-Mengen-Spültechnik, indem eine bestimmte Handbewegung bzw. die der Handbewegung entsprechenden Signalwerte einem eine Teilspülung auslösenden Steuerbefehl und eine andere bestimmte Handbewegung bzw. die dieser Handbewegung entsprechenden Signalwerte einem eine Vollspülung auslösenden Steuerbefehl zugeordnet werden. Insbesondere ermöglicht die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung das Einlernen mehrerer Handbewegungen, um eine Zwei-Mengen-Spültechnik in Kombination mit einer Spülstopp-Funktion ausüben zu können.In the device according to the invention various hand movements can be taught. The signal values or signal value sequences produced by the hand movements can be assigned the same but also to different control commands and the corresponding assignments can be stored in the memory. It is thus possible, a certain hand movement or the hand movement Assign corresponding signal values to a purging triggering control command, and to assign another specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to this hand movement to a control command for a rinse-stop function. The invention likewise makes it possible to use the so-called two-volume flushing technique by assigning a specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to the hand movement to a control command triggering a partial flush and another specific hand movement or the signal values corresponding to this hand movement to a control command triggering a full flush , In particular, the device according to the invention makes it possible to learn several hand movements in order to be able to exercise a two-volume flushing technique in combination with a rinse-off function.

Durch die Anzeigeeinrichtung und den Wasserstandssensor ergibt sich hinsichtlich unterschiedlicher Spülfunktionen, insbesondere der Zwei-Mengen-Technik, eine komfortable Bedienung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung. Dem Nutzer der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung kann mittels der Anzeigeeinrichtung insbesondere eine optische Rückmeldung über die ausgelöste Spülfunktion bzw. die gewählte Spülmenge gegeben werden. Darüber hinaus kann dem Nutzer der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mittels des Wasserstandssensors und der Anzeigeeinrichtung auch eine optische Rückmeldung über die Spüldauer bzw. den aktuellen Wasserstand im Spülkasten gegeben werden. Der aktuelle Wasserstand im Spülkasten kann für den Nutzer beispielsweise von Interesse sein, wenn er eine Nachspülung auslösen möchte.By the display device and the water level sensor results in terms of different rinsing functions, in particular the two-volume technique, a comfortable operation of the device according to the invention. The user of the device according to the invention can be given by the display device in particular an optical feedback on the triggered rinse function or the selected flushing. In addition, the user of the device according to the invention by means of the water level sensor and the display device can also be given an optical feedback about the rinsing time or the current water level in the cistern. The current water level in the cistern may be of interest to the user, for example, if he wants to initiate a final rinse.

Die Sensormatrix zur berührungslosen Erfassung von Körperbewegungen ist nach einer bevorzugten Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung aus einer Vielzahl optischer, elektronischer Elemente gebildet. Eine solche Sensormatrix lässt sich kostengünstig realisieren und baut relativ flach, so dass die Sensormatrix wenig Bautiefe beansprucht und hinsichtlich der Ausgestaltung der Abdeckplatte sehr gute Gestaltungsfreiheiten bietet.The sensor matrix for non-contact detection of body movements is formed according to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention from a plurality of optical, electronic elements. Such a sensor matrix can be realized inexpensively and builds relatively flat, so that the sensor matrix requires little construction depth and offers very good design freedom with regard to the design of the cover plate.

Um die Sicherheit gegen ungewolltes Auslösungen von Spülvorgängen weiter zu erhöhen, ist die Sensormatrix vorzugsweise aus solchen optischen, elektronischen Elementen gebildet, die auf Infrarotbasis arbeiten. Hierdurch können Fehlauslösungen durch Sonnenstrahlen sowie Lichtstrahlen, die von einer herkömmlichen Raumbeleuchtung ausgehen, verhindert werden.In order to further increase the security against unwanted triggering of rinsing processes, the sensor matrix is preferably formed from those infrared-based optical electronic elements. This can prevent false triggering by sun rays and light rays that emanate from a conventional room lighting.

Nach einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist vorgesehen, dass die Abdeckplatte durch eine semitransparente Glas- oder Kunststoffplatte gebildet ist, wobei die Sensormatrix und die Anzeigeeinrichtung auf der Rückseite der Abdeckplatte angeordnet sind. Die Sensormatrix und die Anzeigeeinrichtung sind bei dieser Ausgestaltung quasi hinter der Abdeckplatte "versteckt". Bei Gebrauch der Vorrichtung werden die Auslösung eines Spülvorgangs, die Spülwassermenge, die Spüldauer und/oder der aktuelle Wasserstand im Spülkasten anhand definierter Symbole und/oder Icons (Piktogramme) mittels der Anzeigeeinrichtung angezeigt, wobei die Symbole und/oder Icons dann durch die semitransparente Abdeckplatte hindurch sichtbar sind. Bei Nichtgebrauch der Vorrichtung, d.h. in deren Bereitschaftszustand (Standby-Zustand), sind jedoch keine Symbole bzw. Icons auf der semitransparenten Abdeckplatte zu erkennen.According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention it is provided that the cover plate is formed by a semi-transparent glass or plastic plate, wherein the sensor matrix and the display device are arranged on the back of the cover plate. In this embodiment, the sensor matrix and the display device are virtually "hidden" behind the cover plate. When the device is used, the triggering of a rinsing process, the amount of rinsing water, the rinsing time and / or the current water level in the cistern are displayed on the basis of defined symbols and / or icons (pictograms) by means of the display device, the symbols and / or icons then passing through the semitransparent cover plate are visible through. When the device is not in use, ie in its standby state (standby state), however, no symbols or icons can be recognized on the semitransparent cover plate.

Die Anzeigeeinrichtung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist nach einer weiteren bevorzugten Ausgestaltung aus mindestens einer Elektrolumineszens-Folie und/oder einer Mehrzahl von Leuchtdioden gebildet. Die Anzeigeeinrichtung kann somit sehr flach ausgeführt werden, so dass sie sehr wenig Bautiefe beansprucht. Ferner zeichnet sich eine so ausgeführte Anzeigeeinrichtung durch einen relativ geringen Energieverbrauch aus.The display device of the device according to the invention is formed according to a further preferred embodiment of at least one electroluminescent film and / or a plurality of light-emitting diodes. The display device can thus be made very flat, so that it requires very little installation depth. Furthermore, such a display device is characterized by a relatively low energy consumption.

An der Steuerung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung kann des Weiteren ein Annährungssensor angeschlossen sein, der die Anzeigeeinrichtung aktiviert. Auf diese Weise kann einem Benutzer des Spülkastens beispielsweise signalisiert werden, dass zum Auslösen eines Spülvorgangs eine Handbewegung vor der Abdeckplatte auszuführen ist bzw. dass zunächst mindestens eine Handbewegung eingelernt, einer Spülfunktion zugeordnet und die Zuordnung in der Vorrichtung gespeichert werden muss.Furthermore, an approach sensor which activates the display device can be connected to the controller of the device according to the invention. In this way, a user of the cistern, for example, be signaled that to trigger a flushing a hand movement in front of the cover is executed or that initially at least one hand movement learned, associated with a flushing function and the assignment must be stored in the device.

Eine weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Stellantrieb zur Betätigung des Spülkastenventils als Linearantrieb ausgebildet ist. Diese Ausgestaltung ermöglicht die Verwendung eines flexiblen Bowdenzuges als Kraftübertragungsglied zwischen dem Stellantrieb und dem Spülkastenventil. Hinsichtlich der Anordnung des Stellantriebs ergeben sich dadurch zahlreiche Möglichkeiten, was die Konstruktion der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung erleichtert, insbesondere zusätzliche konstruktive sowie gestalterische Freiheitsgrade schafft.A further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention is characterized in that the actuator for actuating the Spülkastenventils is designed as a linear drive. This embodiment allows the use of a flexible Bowden cable as a power transmission element between the actuator and the Spülkastenventil. With regard to the arrangement of the actuator, this results in numerous possibilities, which facilitates the construction of the device according to the invention, in particular creates additional constructive and creative degrees of freedom.

Für das Einlernen bestimmter Handbewegungen und deren Zuordnung zu verschiedenen Spülfunktionen ist die Steuerung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung nach einer weiteren Ausgestaltung neben der Sensormatrix, dem Speicher und der Auswerteeinrichtung zusätzlich mit Bedienelementen versehen, die als berührungslos betätigbare Bedienelemente oder als berührungssensitive Bedienelementen ausgeführt sein können.For teaching certain hand movements and their assignment to different rinsing functions, the control of the device according to the invention is additionally provided with control elements in addition to the sensor matrix, the memory and the evaluation, which can be designed as non-contact actuated controls or as touch-sensitive controls.

Weitere bevorzugte und vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung sind in den Unteransprüchen angegeben.Further preferred and advantageous embodiments of the device according to the invention are specified in the subclaims.

Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung anhand einer mehrere Ausführungsbeispiele darstellenden Zeichnung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
einen Abschnitt eines Spülkastens mit einem Spülkastenventil und einer Vorrichtung zur berührungslosen Auslösung des Spülkastenventils in perspektivischer Ansicht;
Fig. 2
Teile einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung in Explosionsdarstellung;
Fig. 3
eine perspektivische Rückansicht der Teile der Fig. 2 in zusammengesetztem Zustand;
Fig. 4
eine Vorderansicht einer Abdeckplatte der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung im Standby-Zustand;
Fig. 5
eine Vorderansicht der Abdeckplatte der Fig. 4 während einer Vollspülung; und
Fig. 6
eine Vorderansicht der Abdeckplatte der Fig. 4 während einer Teilspülung.
The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing illustrating several embodiments. Show it:
Fig. 1
a section of a cistern with a Spülkastenventil and a device for non-contact triggering of the Spülkastenventils in perspective view;
Fig. 2
Parts of a device according to the invention in an exploded view;
Fig. 3
a rear perspective view of the parts of Fig. 2 in assembled condition;
Fig. 4
a front view of a cover plate of the device according to the invention in the standby state;
Fig. 5
a front view of the cover plate of Fig. 4 during a full flush; and
Fig. 6
a front view of the cover plate of Fig. 4 during a partial flush.

In Fig. 1 ist ein Abschnitt eines Spülkastens 1 gezeigt, der vorzugsweise als Unterputzspülkasten ausgebildet ist und an seiner Vorderseite eine Revisionsöffnung 2 aufweist. Der vertikal und horizontal geschnitten dargestellte Spülkasten 1 ist für ein WC oder Urinal bestimmt und mit einer erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zur berührungslosen, bewegungsgesteuerten Auslösung eines Spülkastenventils 3 versehen. Die Vorrichtung umfasst unter anderem eine elektronische Steuerung 4 und einen elektro-magnetischen Stellantrieb 5 zur Betätigung des Spülkastenventils (siehe Figuren 2 und 3).In Fig. 1 a section of a cistern 1 is shown, which is preferably designed as a concealed cistern and has an inspection opening 2 on its front side. The cistern 1 shown vertically and horizontally is intended for a toilet or urinal and provided with a device according to the invention for non-contact, movement-controlled triggering of a cistern valve 3. The device comprises inter alia an electronic control 4 and an electro-magnetic actuator 5 for actuating the Spülkastenventils (see Figures 2 and 3 ).

Des Weiteren umfasst die erfindungsgemäße Vorrichtung eine Abdeckplatte oder Betätigungsplatte 6, die vorzugsweise aus einer semitransparenten Glas- oder Kunststoffplatte gebildet ist und vor der Revisionsöffnung 2 des Spülkastens 1 angeordnet wird, so dass sie die Revisionsöffnung 2 verschließt bzw. abdeckt.Furthermore, the device according to the invention comprises a cover plate or actuating plate 6, preferably made of a semitransparent glass or plastic plate is formed and is arranged in front of the inspection opening 2 of the cistern 1, so that it closes or covers the inspection opening 2.

Die einteilige Abdeckplatte 6 ist rückseitig mit einem Befestigungselement 7 versehen, das mit einem der Revisionsöffnung 2 zugeordneten Grundrahmen 8 lösbar verbindbar ist. Der Grundrahmen 8 wird an einer Wandöffnung befestigt, die in Überdeckung zu der Revisionsöffnung 2 des Spülkastens 1 liegt. Der Grundrahmen 8 besteht beispielsweise aus einem einteiligen Spritzgießteil, das vorzugsweise aus Kunststoff gefertigt ist. Er weist an seiner Vorderseite einen umlaufenden Flansch 8.1 auf, an dessen Innenkanten sich ein rückseitig vorstehender Kragen 8.2 anschließt. An den Kragen 8.2 sind Halterungsstege 8.3 angeformt, die eine komplexe, dreidimensionale Form aufweisen. An parallel zu dem Flansch 8.1 angeordneten, gegenüber diesem zurückspringenden Stegabschnitten 8.4 sind Durchbrüche 8.5 zur Aufnahme von Schraubbolzen (nicht gezeigt) ausgebildet. Die Schraubbolzen werden in den Spülkasten 1 oder eine vor diesem angeordnete Wand eingeschraubt. Im montierten Zustand liegt die Rückseite des Flansches 8.1 an der Vorderseite einer die Revisionsöffnung 2 des Spülkastens 1 umgebenden Wandverkleidung, beispielsweise einem Fliesenbelag an.The one-piece cover plate 6 is provided on the back with a fastening element 7 which is detachably connectable to a base frame 8 associated with the inspection opening 2. The base frame 8 is attached to a wall opening, which lies in register with the access opening 2 of the cistern 1. The base frame 8 consists for example of a one-piece injection-molded part, which is preferably made of plastic. He has at its front a circumferential flange 8.1, at the inner edges of a rear projecting collar 8.2 connects. At the collar 8.2 support webs 8.3 are formed, which have a complex, three-dimensional shape. Arranged on parallel to the flange 8.1, with respect to this recessed web sections 8.4 apertures 8.5 for receiving bolts (not shown) are formed. The bolts are screwed into the cistern 1 or arranged in front of this wall. In the assembled state, the rear side of the flange 8.1 is located on the front side of a wall covering surrounding the inspection opening 2 of the cistern 1, for example a tile covering.

Der Grundrahmen 8 weist ferner nahe den Innenecken seines Flansches 8.1 bzw. Kragens 8.2 Ausnehmungen (Durchbrüche) 8.6, 8.7 zur lösbaren Befestigung des Befestigungselementes 7 auf. Das Befestigungselement 7 ist als in den Grundrahmen 8 einsetzbarer Befestigungsrahmen ausgebildet. Es weist in einer gemeinsamen Ebene angeordnete Flansche oder Stege 7.1 auf, an deren Rückseite den Ausnehmungen 8.6, 8.7 des Grundrahmens 8 zugeordnete Clipelemente in Form von federelastischen Rastzungen 7.2 sowie bolzenförmige Zentrier- oder Führungselemente 7.3 ausgebildet sind. Das Befestigungselement 7 ist mit seinen Flanschen 7.1 auf die Rückseite der Abdeckplatte 6 aufgeklebt.The base frame 8 also has close to the inner corners of its flange 8.1 or collar 8.2 recesses (openings) 8.6, 8.7 for releasably securing the fastener 7. The fastening element 7 is designed as an insertable into the base frame 8 mounting frame. It points in a common plane arranged flanges or webs 7.1, at the back of the recesses 8.6, 8.7 of the base frame 8 associated clip elements in the form of resilient locking tongues 7.2 and bolt-shaped centering or guide elements 7.3 are formed. The fastening element 7 is glued with its flanges 7.1 on the back of the cover plate 6.

Die Steuerung 4 der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ist zumindest teilweise in einem Gehäuse angeordnet, das auf der Rückseite der Abdeckplatte 6 angeordnet ist und dabei vom Befestigungsrahmen 7 bzw. Grundrahmen 8 aufgenommen wird (vgl. Fig. 3). Vorzugsweise ist auch das Gehäuse bzw. die Steuerung 4 auf die Rückseite der Abdeckplatte 6 aufgeklebt. Beispielsweise sind alle elektronischen Leiterbahnen und/oder elektrischen Kontaktflächen der Steuerung 4 auf die Rückseite der Abdeckplatte 6 auflaminiert. Die Steuerung 4 ist mit einem Stromversorgungskabel 4.1 und einem Steuerleitungen enthaltenden Kabel 4.2 versehen, wobei letztes mit dem Stellantrieb 5 verbunden wird, der das Spülkastenventil (Ablaufventil) 3 betätigt.The controller 4 of the device according to the invention is at least partially disposed in a housing which is arranged on the back of the cover plate 6 and is thereby received by the mounting frame 7 or base frame 8 (see. Fig. 3 ). Preferably, the housing or the controller 4 is glued to the back of the cover plate 6. For example, all electronic traces and / or electrical contact surfaces of the controller 4 are laminated to the back of the cover plate 6. The controller 4 is provided with a power supply cable 4.1 and a control cables containing cable 4.2, the latter being connected to the actuator 5, which operates the Spülkastenventil (drain valve) 3.

Der Stellantrieb 5 ist als linearer elektrischer Stellantrieb ausgebildet. Er ist in einer an der Rückseite des Grundrahmens angeordneten Halterung 9, die durch einen abnehmbaren Deckel 10 verschließbar ist, gelagert und mit einem flexiblen Bowdenzug 11 gekoppelt (Fig. 1). Die lineare Stellbewegung des Stellantriebs 5 wird über den Bowdenzug 11 auf einen (nicht näher dargestellten) Hebelmechanismus übertragen, mittels dem ein als Überlaufrohr ausgebildeter Ventilkörper 12 von einem Ventilsitz 13 des Spülkastenventils 3 angehoben werden kann. Der Hebelmechanismus ist in einer mit einer gehäuseförmigen Ventilkörperführung verbundenen Halterung 14 gelagert. Mit 15 ist ein zweiter Bowdenzug bezeichnet, der zur manuellen Betätigung des Spülkastenventils 3 bei Stromausfall oder Wartungsarbeiten dient.The actuator 5 is designed as a linear electric actuator. It is mounted in a arranged on the back of the base frame bracket 9, which is closed by a removable cover 10, stored and coupled with a flexible Bowden cable 11 ( Fig. 1 ). The linear actuating movement of the actuator 5 is transmitted via the Bowden cable 11 to a (not shown) lever mechanism, by means of which a trained as an overflow valve body 12 can be raised by a valve seat 13 of the Spülkastenventils 3. The lever mechanism is mounted in a holder 14 connected to a housing-shaped valve body guide. With 15 a second Bowden cable is designated, which is used for manual actuation of the Spülkastenventils 3 in case of power failure or maintenance.

Die Steuerung 4 ist mit einer (nicht näher dargestellten) Sensormatrix zur berührungslosen Erfassung von Körperbewegungen versehen. Die Sensormatrix ist aus einer Vielzahl optischer, elektronischer Elemente gebildet, die vorzugsweise auf Infrarotbasis arbeiten. Die Sensormatrix ist vorzugsweise ebenfalls auf die Rückseite der Abdeckplatte 6 aufgeklebt bzw. auflaminiert. Bei den optischen, elektronischen Elementen der Sensormatrix kann es sich beispielsweise um Annäherungssensoren und/oder ladungsgekoppelte Halbleiterbauelemente (so genannte CCD-Elemente) handeln. Die Sensormatrix umfasst beispielsweise 16 solcher Annäherungssensoren bzw. Halbleiterbauelemente, die raster- oder matrixförmig angeordnet sind. Die Sensormatrix der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung kann jedoch auch mehr oder weniger als 16 solcher Sensoren bzw. Elemente umfassen.The controller 4 is provided with a (not shown) sensor matrix for non-contact detection of body movements. The sensor matrix is formed from a multiplicity of optical, electronic elements which preferably operate on the basis of infrared. The sensor matrix is preferably also glued or laminated to the back of the cover plate 6. The optical, electronic elements of the sensor matrix can be, for example, proximity sensors and / or charge-coupled semiconductor components (so-called CCD elements). The sensor matrix comprises, for example, 16 such proximity sensors or semiconductor components which are arranged in grid or matrix form. However, the sensor matrix of the device according to the invention may also comprise more or fewer than 16 such sensors or elements.

Die Auswertung der von der Sensormatrix abgegebenen Signale erfolgt durch eine Auswerteeinrichtung, die vorzugsweise aus einer Mikrocontrollerschaltung gebildet ist. Zudem weist die Steuerung 4 der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung einen Speicher auf, in welchem von der Sensormatrix abgegebene Signalwerte speicherbar sind. Die Auswerteeinrichtung bzw. Mikrocontrollerschaltung vergleicht die von der Sensormatrix abgegebenen Signalwerte mit dem oder den Körperbewegungen zugeordneten, gespeicherten Signalwerten. Die Auswerteeinrichtung kann somit verschiedene Handbewegungen, insbesondere Handbewegungsrichtungen, wie etwa Handbewegungen nach rechts, links, oben und/oder unten, aber auch Buchstaben und/oder Zahlen darstellende Handzeichen und sonstige beliebige Handbewegungen auswerten und gemäß zuordenbaren Vorgaben eine gewünschte Spülfunktion auslösen.The evaluation of the signals emitted by the sensor matrix is carried out by an evaluation device, which is preferably formed by a microcontroller circuit. In addition, the controller 4 of the device according to the invention has a memory in which signal values output by the sensor matrix can be stored. The evaluation device or microcontroller circuit compares the signal values output by the sensor matrix with the stored signal values assigned to the body movement (s). The evaluation device can thus different hand movements, especially hand movement directions, such as hand movements to the right, left, up and / or down, but also letters and / or numbers representing hand signals and any other hand movements evaluate and trigger according to assignable specifications a desired rinse function.

Fehlauslösungen des zugeordneten Spülkastenventils 3 sind somit ausgeschlossen, da alle Körperbewegungen, insbesondere Handbewegungen, die keiner Spülfunktion zugeordnet sind, von der Steuerung der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung ignoriert werden. Ebenso werden Fremdeinflüsse wie beiläufige Lichteinstrahlungen, Bewegungen durch Haustiere sowie durch Luftströmung verursachte Bewegungen ignoriert.False triggering of the associated Spülkastenventils 3 are thus excluded, since all body movements, especially hand movements, which are associated with no flushing function, are ignored by the controller of the device according to the invention. Likewise, foreign influences such as incidental light incidence, movements by pets and movements caused by air flow are ignored.

Die Abdeckplatte (Betätigungsplatte) 6 ist ferner mit einer Anzeigeeinrichtung versehen, um dem Benutzer des Spülkastens 1 eine optische Rückmeldung über eine ausgelöste Spülfunktion zu geben bzw. um den aktuellen Wasserstand im Spülkasten 1 anzuzeigen. Hierzu ist ein Wasserstandssensor zur Erfassung des Spülkastenfüllstandes an der Steuerung 4 angeschlossen. Der Wasserstandssensor (nicht gezeigt) ist vorzugsweise als optischer oder als schwimmergesteuerter Wasserstandssensor ausgeführt.The cover plate (actuator plate) 6 is further provided with a display device to give the user of the cistern 1 an optical feedback on a triggered flushing function or to display the current water level in the cistern 1. For this purpose, a water level sensor for detecting the Spülkastenfüllstandes is connected to the controller 4. The water level sensor (not shown) is preferably designed as an optical or as a float-controlled water level sensor.

Die Anzeigeeinrichtung ist auf der Rückseite der Abdeckplatte (Betätigungsplatte) 6 angeordnet und durch mindestens eine Elektrolumineszenz-Folie und/oder eine Mehrzahl von Leuchtdioden gebildet. Eine ausgelöste Spülung, die gegebenenfalls gewählte Spülwassermenge und/oder der Spülkastenfüllstand werden von der Anzeigeeinrichtung vorzugsweise durch definierte Symbole oder Icons (Piktogramme) angezeigt.The display device is arranged on the rear side of the cover plate (actuating plate) 6 and formed by at least one electroluminescent film and / or a plurality of light-emitting diodes. A triggered rinse, the optionally selected amount of rinse water and / or the Spülkastenfüllstand are preferred by the display device indicated by defined symbols or icons (pictograms).

Die Abdeckplatte 6 ist in Verbindung mit der Anzeigeeinrichtung derart gestaltet, dass im so genannten Stand-by-Zustand (Betriebsbereitschaftszustand) keine Symbole bzw. Icons auf der Oberfläche (Sichtseite) der Abdeckplatte 6 zu erkennen sind (vgl. Fig. 4). Eine optische Anzeige einer ausgelösten Spülung, einer gegebenenfalls gewählten Spülwassermenge (z.B. Voll- oder Teilspülung) und/oder des Spülkastenfüllstands erfolgt erst, wenn eine Spülfunktion durch eine bestimmte zugeordnete Handbewegung im Bereich der Sensormatrix ausgelöst wurde bzw. wenn durch einen an der Steuerung 4 angeschlossenen Annäherungssensor (nicht gezeigt) die Anwesenheit einer Person in einem bestimmten Bereich vor der Abdeckplatte 6 erfasst wurde.The cover plate 6 is designed in conjunction with the display device such that in the so-called stand-by state (operational readiness state) no symbols or icons on the surface (visible side) of the cover plate 6 can be seen (see. Fig. 4 ). A visual indication of a triggered flushing, optionally selected flushing water quantity (eg full or partial flushing) and / or Spülkastenfüllstands takes place only when a flushing function was triggered by a specific associated hand movement in the sensor matrix or if connected by a connected to the controller 4 Proximity sensor (not shown) has detected the presence of a person in a certain area in front of the cover plate 6.

Bei dem in den Figuren 4 bis 6 dargestellten Ausführungsbeispiel weist die Anzeigeeinrichtung drei vertikal verlaufende Leuchtdiodenreihen 16, 17, 18 auf. Die rechte Leuchtdiodenreihe 18 zeigt qualitativ den Spülkastenfüllstand an, während die beiden anderen Leuchtdiodenreihen 16, 17 der Anzeige der ausgelösten Spülwassermenge dienen. Die linke Leuchtdiodenreihe 16 dient dabei der Anzeige einer Vollspülung, während die demgegenüber kürzere Leuchtdiodenreihe 17 einer Teilspülung zugeordnet ist.In the in the FIGS. 4 to 6 illustrated embodiment, the display device on three vertically extending rows of light emitting diodes 16, 17, 18. The right row of LEDs 18 shows the quality of the Spülkastenfüllstand, while the other two rows of light emitting diodes 16, 17 are used to display the triggered flushing water quantity. The left row of light emitting diodes 16 serves to display a full flush, whereas the shorter row of light emitting diodes 17 is assigned to a partial flush.

In Fig. 5 ist beispielhaft eine Situation dargestellt, in der die Anzeigeeinrichtung eine durch eine entsprechende Handbewegung ausgelöste Vollspülung mit einer relativ großen bzw. maximalen Spülwassermenge anzeigt. Dies wird dadurch angezeigt, dass die Leuchtdioden der linken, längeren Reihe 16 heller oder in einer anderen Farbe leuchten als die Leuchtdioden der benachbarten, kürzeren Reihe 17. Bei den Leuchtdioden der Anzeigeeinrichtung kann es sich vorzugsweise um mehrfarbige Leuchtdioden handeln, die z.B. sowohl grün als auch rot leuchten können. Von den sechs Leuchtdioden der rechten Reihe 18, welche den Spülkastenfüllstand qualitativ anzeigen, leuchten in der dargestellten Situation zwei untere Leuchtdioden heller oder in einer anderen Farbe als die übrigen Leuchtdioden dieser Reihe 18. Das bedeutet, dass der Spülkasten 1 in der in Fig. 5 dargestellten Situation noch etwa mit einem Drittel der maximalen Wassermenge gefüllt ist.In Fig. 5 By way of example, a situation is shown in which the display device displays a full flushing triggered by a corresponding hand movement with a relatively large or maximum amount of flushing water. This is indicated by the fact that the LEDs of the left, longer rows 16 lighter or shine in a different color than the light emitting diodes of the adjacent, shorter row 17. The LEDs of the display device may preferably be multicolored light emitting diodes, for example, both green and red light can. Of the six light emitting diodes of the right row 18, which show the Spülkastenfüllstand qualitatively, shine in the illustrated situation, two lower LEDs brighter or in a different color than the other LEDs of this row 18. This means that the cistern 1 in the in Fig. 5 situation is still filled with about one third of the maximum amount of water.

In Fig. 6 ist dagegen eine Situation dargestellt, bei der eine Teilspülung ausgelöst wurde. Dies wird dadurch signalisiert, dass die Leuchtdioden der kürzeren Reihe 17 heller oder in einer anderen Farbe leuchten als die Leuchtdioden der linken, längeren Reihe 16. Der Spülkasten 1 ist zu diesem nicht oder nicht mehr voll gefüllt, denn die oberste Leuchtdiode der rechten Leuchtdiodenreihe 18 leuchtet weniger hell oder in einer anderen Farbe als die übrigen Leuchtdioden dieser Reihe 18. Das bedeutet, dass in der in Fig. 6 dargestellten Situation etwa ein Sechstel des maximalen Füllstandes des Spülkastens 1 fehlen bzw. bereits abgelaufen sind.In Fig. 6 however, a situation is shown in which a partial flush was triggered. This is signaled by the fact that the light emitting diodes of the shorter row 17 shine brighter or in a different color than the LEDs of the left, longer row 16. The cistern 1 is not or not fully filled for this, because the top LED of the right row of light emitting diode 18th glows less bright or in a different color than the other LEDs of this series 18. This means that in the in Fig. 6 illustrated situation about one sixth of the maximum level of the cistern 1 are missing or have already expired.

Für die Zuordnung einer frei vorgebbaren Handbewegung bzw. der durch die Handbewegung bewirkten, von der Sensormatrix abgegebenen Sensorsignalwertfolge zu einer Spülfunktion, insbesondere dem Öffnen des Spülkastenventils 3 für eine Voll- oder Teilspülung sowie dem Schließen des Spülkastenventils 3 (Spülstopp-Funktion), ist die Steuerung 4 der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung mit Bedienelementen (nicht gezeigt) versehen. Das Einlernen einer Handbewegung wird dabei vorzugsweise durch die Anzeigeeinrichtung unterstützt, indem der Benutzer durch die Anzeigeeinrichtung menugeführt Hinweise für die Eingabe, Zuordnung und Speicherung erhält. Die hierfür vorgesehenen Bedienelemente bestehen vorzugsweise aus berührungslos betätigbaren Bedienelementen. Es liegt jedoch auch im Rahmen der vorliegenden Erfindung, die Steuerung 4 mit berührungssensitiven Bedienelementen zu versehen, um eine einlernte Handbewegung bzw. die entsprechende Sensorsignalwertfolge einer Spülfunktion zuzuordnen und die Zuordnung im Speicher der erfindungsgemäßen Vorrichtung zu speichern.For the assignment of a freely definable hand movement or caused by the hand movement, emitted by the sensor matrix sensor signal value sequence to a rinsing function, in particular the opening of the Spülkastenventils 3 for a full or partial flushing and closing the Spülkastenventils 3 (rinse stop function), is the Control 4 of the Device according to the invention provided with controls (not shown). The learning of a hand movement is preferably supported by the display device by the menu-guided by the user receives hints for input, assignment and storage. The controls provided for this purpose preferably consist of contactlessly operable controls. However, it is also within the scope of the present invention to provide the controller 4 with touch-sensitive operating elements in order to assign a learned hand movement or the corresponding sensor signal value sequence to a rinsing function and to store the assignment in the memory of the device according to the invention.

Claims (13)

  1. Device for contactlessly triggering a cistern valve, comprising a cover plate (6) for covering an inspection opening of a cistern, an electronic control unit (4), an electromagnetic actuator (5) for actuating a cistern valve and a display device (16, 17, 18), a water level sensor for detecting the cistern fill level being connected to the control unit (4), characterised in that a sensor matrix for contactlessly detecting body movements is connected to the control unit (4), the control unit (4) being provided with a memory for storing at least one signal value emitted by the sensor matrix and an evaluation device for comparing a signal value emitted by the sensor matrix with at least one stored signal value associated with a body movement, the cover plate (6) being provided with the display device (16, 17, 18) and the display device (16, 17, 18) being designed to display a triggered flushing and the current cistern fill level.
  2. Device according to claim 1, characterised in that the sensor matrix is formed of a plurality of optical electronic elements.
  3. Device according to claim 2, characterised in that the optical electronic elements operate on the basis of infrared light.
  4. Device according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the cover plate (6) is formed by a semitransparent glass plate or plastics plate.
  5. Device according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the sensor matrix is arranged on the back of the cover plate (6).
  6. Device according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the evaluation device is formed by a microcontroller circuit.
  7. Device according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that electronic conductor tracks of the control unit and/or electrical contact surfaces of the control unit are laminated onto the back of the cover plate (6).
  8. Device according to any of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the display device is formed by at least one electroluminescent film and/or a plurality of light-emitting diodes (16, 17, 18).
  9. Device according to any of claims 1 to 8, characterised in that the display device (16, 17, 18) is arranged on the back of the cover plate (6).
  10. Device according to any of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that the actuator (5) is formed as a linear actuator.
  11. Device according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the control unit (4) is provided with operating elements that can be actuated in a contactless manner.
  12. Device according to any of claims 1 to 10, characterised in that the control unit (4) is provided with touch-sensitive operating elements.
  13. Device according to any of claims 1 to 12, characterised in that a proximity sensor is connected to the control unit (4), which sensor activates the display device (16, 17, 18).
EP10151536.9A 2009-01-26 2010-01-25 Device for contactless actuation of a flushing valve Active EP2210988B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

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DE202009000981U DE202009000981U1 (en) 2009-01-26 2009-01-26 Device for the contactless triggering of a cistern valve

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EP2210988A2 EP2210988A2 (en) 2010-07-28
EP2210988A3 EP2210988A3 (en) 2013-03-27
EP2210988B1 true EP2210988B1 (en) 2017-04-12

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DE (1) DE202009000981U1 (en)
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ES (1) ES2630021T3 (en)

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DE202011105254U1 (en) 2011-09-01 2011-11-21 Grohe Ag actuator
US10711442B2 (en) 2016-04-26 2020-07-14 Kohler Co. Composite faucet body and internal waterway
TR201619158A1 (en) * 2016-12-21 2018-07-23 Eczacibasi Yapi Gerecleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi AN ELECTRONIC CONTROLLED RESERVOIR SYSTEM
US11118338B2 (en) 2017-05-22 2021-09-14 Kohler Co. Plumbing fixtures with insert-molded components
TR201722518A2 (en) * 2017-12-28 2019-07-22 Eczacibasi Yapi Gerecleri Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi AN ELECTRONICALLY CONTROLLED RESERVOIR SYSTEM
DE102020106047A1 (en) * 2020-03-05 2021-09-09 Tece Gmbh Contact-free actuation plate
DE102020107637A1 (en) * 2020-03-19 2021-09-23 Villeroy & Boch Aktiengesellschaft Rinsing and pre-rinsing system and retrofit set for a sanitary facility, method for rinsing and pre-rinsing a sanitary facility and sanitary facility equipped with such a rinsing and pre-rinsing system
EP4353918A1 (en) * 2022-10-13 2024-04-17 Geberit International AG Actuating device

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DK2210988T3 (en) 2017-07-17
ES2630021T3 (en) 2017-08-17
EP2210988A2 (en) 2010-07-28
EP2210988A3 (en) 2013-03-27
DE202009000981U1 (en) 2010-09-16

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