EP2250321B1 - Control device for plumbing appliances - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates according to the preamble of independent claim 1, a sanitary fitting. This includes a water supply point, an electronically controlled mixing valve with cold water connection and hot water connection as well as an operating device. The operating device comprises a control element rotatable in a first functional plane and in a second functional plane, wherein the second functional plane is aligned at a distance parallel to the first functional plane. The operating device further comprises an electronic control, an electrical power supply and a base body for fixing the operating device. This operating device is designed to operate the water tapping point.

Electronic controls for operating sanitary objects with a water tap are known from the prior art. As "sanitary objects" are referred to in the context of this invention, for example, sinks, kitchen sinks, showers, bathtubs and the like, as found for example in households, public buildings and tourist facilities, such as spa hotels and the like. "Wasserentnahmestelien" are z. As valves, taps, Wasserauslaufventilanordnungen, water mixing valves and the like, as these are also known for a long time. Electronic controls for the removal of water from sanitary objects are eg from the patent US 7,107,631 B2 or from the patent EP 1 601 841 B1 known by the current applicant. These documents disclose a device for non-contact control of the water discharge or a method for controlling the water inlet into a sanitary appliance.

From the prior art further operating devices for operating sanitary objects with a water tap are known. Such operating devices can be based on a purely mechanical operating principle (cf., for example, one from the patent application EP 0 818 587 A2 known single-lever mixer, or the long-known, so-called "three-hole armature") are based. The combination of mechanical principles of action with an electronic proximity circuit for opening a water flow when approaching a person to a sanitary object is known (see, eg EP 0 904 469 B1 . EP 0 882 848 B1 and EP 1 120 498 B1 ). Furthermore, from the prior art, a visual display of the currently issued water temperature in the form of one or more light emitting diodes in combination with a mechanical single lever mixer known (see. DE 100 42 722 A1 ). However, such operating devices can also be based on an electronic principle of action, wherein for selecting a desired water flow and / or a desired water temperature sensor arrays (cf., eg DE 103 32 708 B3 ), Keypads (cf. DE 38 12 736 C1 ) or a two-dimensional control surface (cf. WO 2006/061657 A1 ) is used with a touch-sensitive matrix (in the sense of a "touch pad") or with proximity-sensitive matrix.

The known purely mechanical operating devices offer in most cases too low ease of use. Thus, the force required to open the tap of a three-hole fitting for very old users can be too large and it can be quite difficult to set a particular water flow or a desired temperature. In particular, the operation of a movable in two different levels Einhebelmischers can make too high demands on the fine motor of the user. Also known electronic control devices have disadvantages; so many keypads may overwhelm the user in their complexity, require too much time to set the desired water flow and water temperature, and be difficult to operate, especially in low light conditions. Also electronic control devices can, in addition to their usually complex and costly design (see. DE 38 12 736 C1 and WO 2006/061657 A1 ), elderly users too high fine motor skills (cf., eg DE 103 32 708 B3 ) demand.

Another control device is from the number below EP 1 609 402 A1 published European patent application. To select a specific function (hydraulic functions, such as overhead or hand shower, additional functions such as sauna operation, radio listening or aroma delivery), a control element (a knob) is brought into a certain angular position. A concrete set value of a parameter is thus necessarily connected to the setting of a specific angular position of this knob. The same control element or one or two additional control elements are used to control the selected function (eg water flow, water temperature, sauna temperature, station selection, volume of the music). If only a single control element is used, the selection function is assigned a first and the control functions a second and third functional level, in which this control element must be brought.

Rotary or rotary and pull switches for operating electrical appliances by selecting functions are also known from other technical fields. This is how the document reveals EP 0 831 504 A2 a bidirectional rotary switch, with the example, in a navigation device for motor vehicles by turning function groups individual function elements can be selected. The selected functional element can then be activated by means of a subsequent pressing. Furthermore, from the document DE 197 30 297 A1 a rotary switch with two axial positions for movement in two dimensions, in particular for an electronic device (eg as a replacement for a computer mouse) and known in motor vehicles. With a second switch, selected functions must then be selected. Finally, from the document DE 30 31 711 A1 an electric rotary and pull switch for motor vehicles known.

Object of the present invention is to propose an alternative control device for controlling the flow of water and the water temperature in sanitary objects with electronically controlled mixing valve and cold water connection and hot water connection, which is easy to use and virtually no effort. In this case, the operating device should be adaptable to the preference of the user, which is the parameter temperature or flow is set first.

This object is met with the features of independent claim 1 by a sanitary fitting is proposed which comprises a water tap, an electronically controlled mixing valve with cold water connection and hot water connection and an operating device for operating the water tap. The operating device comprises a control element rotatable in a first functional plane and in a second functional plane, wherein the second functional plane is aligned at a distance from the first functional plane. The operating device further comprises an electronic control, an electrical power supply and a base body for fixing the operating device. The sanitary fitting is characterized in that the operating device comprises a spring element which holds the operating element elastically in the first functional level. Against the resistance of this spring element while the control element can be brought by means of a lifting movement in the second functional level, which latches back when releasing the control element elastically in the first functional level. The sanitary fitting is further characterized in that by a rotational movement of this control element in the first functional level, the temperature of the emerging from the water outlet water angle and position is independently variable, and that by a rotational movement of this control element in the second functional level, the flow of emerging from the water collection point Water can be changed independently of angle and position. The assignment of the first and second functional level to the change in temperature or flow is interchangeable. Thus, when designing the operating device before final assembly by the installer, the user can select which of the two parameters is assigned to the first functional level.

Other additional and inventive features will be apparent from the dependent claims and their combinations.

• Die Bedienung einer Wasserentnahmestelle, die ein elektronisch gesteuertes Mischventil mit Kaltwasseranschluss und Heisswasseranschluss umfasst, und die mit der erfindungsgemässen Bedienungsvorrichtung ausgerüstet ist, wird vereinfacht.
• Die Bedienung einer solchen Wasserentnahmestelle erfolgt Dank der Einfachheit der Bedienungsvorrichtung schnell, sicher, intuitiv und reproduzierbar.
• Die Auswahl ist auf zwei definierte Funktionsebenen beschränkt, von denen die eine durch ein Federelement elastisch bestimmt ist und die andere nur durch einen (wenn auch geringen) Kraftaufwand erreicht und beibehalten werden kann.
• Das Einstellen der gewünschten Parameter in der ersten und zweiten Ebene erfolgt in jedem Fall Winkel- und Positions-unabhängig.
• Der Aufwand zum Reinigen der Bedienungsvorrichtung wird auf ein Minimum reduziert, weil diese nur einfache, leicht zu reinigende Oberflächen aufweist.
• Eine solche Wasserentnahmestelle ist dank den einfachen Bewegungsabläufen selbst mit reduzierter menschlicher Feinmotorik möglich und zudem praktisch ohne Kraftaufwand bedienbar.
• Die Bedienungsvorrichtung kann gemäss einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform flexibel und für den aktuellen Verbraucher optimal angeordnet werden.
• Die gesamte Bedienung erfolgt mit nur einem drehbaren Knopf, dem zwei Funktionsebenen zugeordnet werden können, wobei in der ersten Ebene der Wasserfluss und in der der zweiten Ebene die Temperatur des aus der Armatur fliessenden Wassers eingestellt werden kann. Die Zuordnung der ersten und zweiten Funktionsebene zu der Veränderung der Temperatur oder des Flusses ist dabei vertauschbar.

Advantages of the inventive control device include:

• The operation of a water tap, which includes an electronically controlled mixing valve with cold water connection and hot water connection, and which is equipped with the inventive control device is simplified.
• The operation of such a water tap is done thanks to the simplicity of the control device quickly, safely, intuitively and reproducibly.
• The selection is limited to two defined functional levels, one of which is elastically determined by a spring element and the other can be achieved and maintained only by a (albeit small) force.
• The setting of the desired parameters in the first and second level takes place in any case angle and position-independent.
• The effort to clean the operating device is reduced to a minimum, because it has only simple, easy to clean surfaces.
• Such a water tapping point is possible thanks to the simple movements even with reduced human fine motor skills and also operated with virtually no effort.
• The operating device can be arranged flexibly and optimally for the current consumer according to a preferred embodiment.
• The entire operation is done with only one rotatable knob, the two levels of function can be assigned, in the first level of the water flow and in the second level, the temperature of the flowing water from the valve can be adjusted. The assignment of the first and second functional level to the change in temperature or flow is interchangeable.

Fig. 1

eine Draufsicht auf einen Küchenspültisch mit einer Wasserentnahmestelle und einer fest auf der Abdeckung der Küchenkombination montierten Bedienungsvorrichtung;

Fig. 2

eine Draufsicht auf einen Waschtisch mit einer Wasserentnahmestelle und einer fest auf dem Waschtisch montierten Bedienungsvorrichtung;

Fig. 3

eine Frontansicht der in der Fig. 1 gezeigten Küchenkombination mit Küchenspültisch und Wasserentnahmestelle sowie mit einer fest auf der Abdeckung der Küchenkombination montierten Bedienungsvorrichtung;

Fig. 4

einen Teilschnitt durch einen Waschtisch mit einer Wasserentnahmestelle und einer fest an der den Waschtisch tragenden Wand montierten Bedienungsvorrichtung;

Fig. 5

Ansichten von unterschiedlichen Ausführungsformen der erfindungsgemässen Bedienungsvorrichtung mit einem Schaltteil, welches eine Hubbewegung von der ersten in die zweite Funktionsebene ausführen kann und gleichzeitig das drehbare Bedienelement ist, wobei:
Fig. 5A eine erste Ausführungsform mit einem schmalen Bedienelement und einem sichtbaren Grundkörper mit aufgesetzter optischer Anzeigevorrichtung zeigt;
Fig. 5B eine zweite Ausführungsform mit einem breiten Bedienelement und einem unsichtbaren Grundkörper mit aufgesetzter optischer Anzeigevorrichtung zeigt;
Fig. 5C eine dritte Ausführungsform mit einem schmalen Bedienelement mit eingesetzter optischer Anzeigevorrichtung und einem sichtbaren Grundkörper zeigt;
Fig. 5D eine vierte Ausführungsform mit einem schmalen Bedienelement und einem unsichtbaren Grundkörper zeigt, wobei die optische Anzeigevorrichtung beabstandet angeordnet ist;

Fig. 6

einen Teilschnitt durch eine Bedienungsvorrichtung gemäss der ersten Ausführungsform mit einem Federelement in Form einer Spiralfeder;

Fig. 7

einen Teilschnitt durch eine Bedienungsvorrichtung gemäss der ersten Ausführungsform mit einem Federelement in Form eines Magnetenpaars;

Fig. 8

Ansichten einer Wasserentnahmestelle eines Küchenspültischs und einer entsprechenden Bedienungsvorrichtung, wobei:

Fig. 8A

eine Ansicht einer Bedienungsvorrichtung gemäss der ersten Ausführungsform zeigt, welche an der Wasserentnahmestelle befestigt ist;

Fig. 8B

eine Ansicht einer Bedienungsvorrichtung gemäss einer sechsten und siebenten Ausführungsform zeigt, welche an der Wasserentnahmestelle befestigbar sind und welche davon weggenommen und praktisch beliebig positioniert werden können;

Fig. 9

eine Bedienungsvorrichtung für die Wasserentnahmestelle einer Dusche, welche - dank einer magnetisierbaren Platte unter einer Glas- oder Keramikplatte - praktisch beliebig an einer Wand positioniert werden kann.

The water-saving device according to the invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to exemplary, non-limiting, schematic drawings of the scope of the present invention. Showing:

Fig. 1

a plan view of a kitchen sink with a water tap and a fixed mounted on the cover of the kitchen combination operating device;

Fig. 2

a plan view of a vanity with a water tap and a fixed mounted on the vanity operating device;

Fig. 3

a front view of the in the Fig. 1 shown kitchen combination with kitchen sink and water tap and with a firmly mounted on the cover of the kitchen combination control device;

Fig. 4

a partial section through a washstand with a water tap and a fixedly mounted on the wall-supporting the control panel operating device;

Fig. 5

Views of different embodiments of the inventive control device with a switching part, which can perform a lifting movement from the first to the second functional level and at the same time is the rotatable operating element, wherein:
Fig. 5A shows a first embodiment with a narrow operating element and a visible base body with attached optical display device;
Fig. 5B shows a second embodiment with a wide operating element and an invisible base body with attached optical display device;
Fig. 5C shows a third embodiment with a narrow operating element with inserted optical display device and a visible main body;
Fig. 5D shows a fourth embodiment with a narrow operating element and an invisible base body, wherein the optical display device is arranged at a distance;

Fig. 6

a partial section through an operating device according to the first embodiment with a spring element in the form of a spiral spring;

Fig. 7

a partial section through an operating device according to the first embodiment with a spring element in the form of a pair of magnets;

Fig. 8

Views of a water tap of a kitchen sink and a corresponding control device, wherein:

Fig. 8A

shows a view of an operating device according to the first embodiment, which is attached to the water tap;

Fig. 8B

shows a view of an operating device according to a sixth and seventh embodiment, which are attachable to the water intake point and which can be taken away and positioned virtually anywhere;

Fig. 9

an operating device for the water outlet of a shower, which - thanks to a magnetizable plate under a glass or ceramic plate - can be practically positioned anywhere on a wall.

The FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a kitchen sink table 7 with a water tap 8 and a fixed mounted on the cover of the kitchen combination control device 1. This control device 1 comprises a rotatable in a first functional level 2 control 3. This control is preferably designed as a rotating part, as this as a faucet conventional fittings or as a rotatable unit with monoblock mixers of electronically controlled valves (see, eg EP 1 120 498 B1 ) is known. By a rotary movement of this control element 3, the flow and / or the temperature of the exiting the water tap 8 water is changeable.

This operating device 1 further comprises an electronic control 4, an electric power supply 5 and a base 6 for fixing the operating device 1. The electronic control 4 can be used as a separate electronic component, e.g. a populated circuit in the control device 1 and be incorporated in the base body 6. The electronic control 4 of the control device 1 can also be part of the electronic control of the valve or water outlet 8 or the mixing valve 9 as an electronic component, such as a populated circuit or a microchip.

This control device 1 is designed for operating sanitary objects 7 with a water removal point 8, which comprise an electronically controlled mixing valve 9 with cold water connection 10 and hot water connection 11. As mentioned above, in connection with the present invention, e.g. Sink, kitchen sink, showers, bathtubs and the like referred to as sanitary objects 7.

According to the invention, this operating element 3 can be brought into a second functional plane 12 by means of a lifting movement which is aligned parallel to the first functional plane 2 at a distance 13 (cf., for example, FIG Fig. 6 ), wherein the operating device 1 comprises a spring element 26 which elastically holds the operating element 3 in the first functional level 2 and against the resistance of which the operating element 3 can be brought into the second functional level 12. By a rotary motion This control element 3 in the second functional level 12, the temperature or the flow of the emerging from the water tap 7 water can be changed.

The FIG. 2 shows a plan view of a vanity 7 with a water tap 8 and a permanently mounted on the washbasin control device 1. As in the FIG. 1 Here a possible position of the electronic control 4 of the control device 1 is indicated by a dashed arrow.

The FIG. 3 shows in the Fig. 1 shown front view of a kitchen combination with kitchen sink 7 and water outlet 8 and with a fixedly mounted on the cover of the kitchen combination control device. 1

The FIG. 4 shows a partial section through a washstand 7 with a water tap 8 and a fixedly mounted on the washstand 7 wall supporting control device 1. In contrast to the preceding figures, in which a seated on the sanitary object 7 control device 1 is shown, this control device 1 is here regardless of the mounting of the washbasin 7 attached to the wall carrying this basin.

The FIG. 5 shows views of different embodiments of the inventive control device.

The FIG. 5A shows a first embodiment of the inventive control device 1 with a narrow control element 3 and a visible base body 6 with attached optical display device 21. This control element 3 can perform a mechanical lifting movement of the first functional level 2 in the second functional level 12. This second functional level 12 is aligned at a distance 13 parallel to the first functional level 2 (cf. Fig. 6 ). The direction of this lifting movement is preferably linear and is perpendicular to the two functional levels 2,12. This lifting movement can be referred to as a simple up or down movement. This lifting movement is thus preferably linear and in the direction of the axis of rotation 27; she can alternatively do so in any other direction and also deviate from a linear motion (not shown).

Also visible in FIG. 5A an optical display device 21, which - as shown - preferably the base body 6 is seated. This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art.

This RGB LED 21 is connected to the electronic control 4 of the control device 1 and displays eg in blue color the flow of cold water from the valve 8 and the corresponding opening position of the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 for the cold water connection 10 (see. Fig. 1 and 2 ).

This RGB LED 21 is connected to the electronic control 4 of the control device 1 and shows, for example, in orange color the flow of warm water from the valve 8 and the corresponding open positions of the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 for the cold and hot water connection 10,11 on (cf. Fig. 1 and 2 ). In this case, the orange light of the RGB LED becomes more intense as the flux increases.

This RGB LED 21 is connected to the electronic control 4 of the control device 1 and displays, for example in red color the flow of hot water from the valve 8 and the corresponding opening position of the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 for the hot water connection 11 (see. Fig. 1 and 2 ). Especially preferred is an RGB LED 21, which is at least partially inserted into a Plexiglas ring 25 or poured into it, which makes the corresponding light around, ie visible from all sides.

The FIG. 5B shows a second embodiment with a wide control element 3 and an invisible base body 6 with attached optical display device 21. This control element 3 is simultaneously formed as a rotary member and can be a lifting movement from the first functional level 2 in the second Execute function level 12. In this case, the operating element 3 is designed as a rotatable sleeve, which is pulled down over the main body 6 of the operating device 1. The optical display device 21 is here mechanically separated from the operating element 3 or switching part 14 and does not rotate with the control element 3 designed as a rotary part. This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art and already in connection with Fig. 5A has been described.

The FIG. 5C shows a third embodiment with a narrow control element 3 with inserted optical display device 21 and with a visible base body 6. This control element 3 or switching part 14 is simultaneously formed as a rotary member and can perform a lifting movement from the first functional level 2 in the second functional level 12, such as this in the Fig. 5A already described. However, in this case, the optical display device 21 is integrated into the switching part 14 and rotates with the formed as a rotary control part 3 with. This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art and already in connection with Fig. 5A has been described. Particularly preferably, the optical display device 21 in this embodiment, a numerical display (with or without illumination), as this also in the Fig. 9 is shown.

The FIG. 5D shows a fourth embodiment with a narrow control element 3 and an invisible base body 6, wherein the optical display device 21 is arranged at a distance. This operating element 3 is at the same time designed as a rotary element and can perform a lifting movement from the first functional level 2 into the second functional level 12. In this case, the operating element 3 is designed as a rotatable sleeve, which is at least partially pulled down over the main body 6 of the operating device 1. The main body is here either very thin or partially embedded in a base body 6 supporting surface, so that only the control 3 is visible, which adheres to this surface at least a distance 13. Here, the optical display device 21 is mechanically and locally separated from the operating element 3 or switching part 14 and embedded in the surface carrying this operating device 1. Such a surface may be formed as a ceramic plate, a glass plate or even a kitchen combination cover. As an alternative to these arrangement possibilities of an optical display device 21 which is at a distance from the operating device 1, it is also possible to install this display device 21 in a pedestal of a sanitary fitting 8 (cf. Fig. 8B ). This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art and already in connection with Fig. 5A has been described (not shown here). Alternatively, this optical display device 21 comprises a number (eg two or three) color LEDs, with which also the current settings of the control device 1 and the mixing valve 9 can be displayed.

In all embodiments of the operating device 1 shown, the temperature of the water emerging from the water tapping point 7 can be changed by a rotary movement of the operating element 3 with an associated second functional plane 12. Of course, the assignment of the first and second functional level to the change in the flow or the temperature of the water discharged from the valve 8 can be arbitrarily reversed. For example, it is advantageous if the operating device 1 of a shower fitting 8 is designed so that a rotation of the operating element 3 in the first functional level 2 changes the temperature of the water. In contrast, in the case of a kitchen fitting 8, the first functional level 2 is assigned to changing the water flow.

The FIG. 6 shows a partial section through an operating device 1 according to the first embodiment. This operating device 1 comprises a first sensor 16 for the mechanical, optical, capacitive, or inductive detection of the lifting movement of the switching part 14 or control element 3. This first sensor 15 is designed here as a capacitive proximity switch, the approach of the operating element 3 assigns the second functional level 12 to this operating element 3. In addition, this control device 1 comprises a second sensor 17 for mechanical, optical, capacitive, or inductive detection of the rotational movement of the operating element 3. This second sensor 17 is designed here as a fixed Hall sensor, the rotational position with respect to fixed in the co-rotating axis 27 of the control element 3 mounted permanent magnets 22 detected. This information is forwarded to the electronic control 4 of the control device 1, so that they can bring the electronic valve control 9 of the valve 8 for correspondingly changing the open position of the valves for the cold water and / or the hot water connection. Preferably, the switching part 14, which is simultaneously formed here as a control element 3, by means of a spring 26 elastically spaced from the Plexiglas ring 25 of the optical display device 21 and the base body 6. Thus, the inventive control device 1 comprises a spring element 26, which holds the control element 3 elastically in the first functional level 2 and against the resistance of the control element 3 can be brought into the second functional level 12.

The electronic control 4 of this control device 1 is thus designed to be activated for opening the electronically controlled mixing valve 9, wherein this activation of the electronic control 4 by means of a lifting movement of the switching part 14 and control element 3 by an operator is effected.

Particularly preferred for use in an inventive control device 1 is a known rotary switch with a mechanical incremental encoder, which is commercially available with or without push-button function. Such extremely compact rotary encoders are extremely insensitive to disturbances and combine robustness and longevity with an excellent locking feeling. The selectable cogging torque and the also selectable sensing force result in a secure sense of rotation for the user and a clear assignment of the different functional levels. Such rotary switches are waterproof and can be installed or operated in both horizontal and vertical position.

The FIG. 7 shows a partial section through an operating device 1 according to the first embodiment with an alternative spring element 26 in the form of a pair of magnets. In this case, an identically oriented pair of magnets is shown at the base of the axis of rotation 27, which pulls the operating element 3 against the base body 6. In addition, here two mutually opposing (and therefore repulsive) ring magnets are exemplarily arranged at the opposite boundary surfaces of control element 3 and Plexiglas ring 25. Further spring elements can be selected from a group of elements which consists of at least one spiral spring, at least one pair of magnets and at least one piezo element and any desired combinations of these elements.

Basically, the spring element 26 is arranged and designed according to a first variant between the base body 6 and the operating element 3, that its resistance counteracts a pressure on the operating element 3 to move it into the second functional level 12 (see. Fig. 6 ). According to a second variant, the spring element 26 is arranged and designed between the base body 6 and the operating element 3 such that its resistance counteracts a pull on the operating element 3 for moving it into the second functional plane 12 (cf. Fig. 7 ). With the choice of the strength of the magnets or the springs of a combination of such elements, the skilled person determines whether the spring element 26 is to counteract a tensile force or a compressive force in the direction of the axis 27. It is also possible with a suitable choice of the means, starting from the first functional level 2 by train or pressure in a second functional level 12 and also by an inverse force, starting from the first functional level 2 in an additional, third functional level to arrive (not shown) , However, it always holds true that, when the operating element 3 is released, it elastically springs back into the first functional level 2.

• A Bevorzugt ist die elektronische Steuerung 4 der Bedienungsvorrichtung 1 so konzipiert, dass sie durch ein einmaliges Ausführen einer Hubbewegung des Schaltteils 14 bzw. Bedienelements 3 das elektronisch gesteuerte Mischventil 9 zum Freigeben eines mittleren Kaltwasserflusses aus der Wasserentnahmestelle 8 veranlasst. Bevorzugt beträgt die Kaltwassertemperatur in diesem Fall 10°C.
• B Bevorzugt wird zudem, dass die elektronische Steuerung 4 der Bedienungsvorrichtung 1 so konzipiert ist, dass sie durch ein zweimaliges Ausführen einer Hubbewegung des Schaltteils 14 bzw. Bedienelements 3 das elektronisch gesteuerte Mischventil 9 zum Freigeben eines mittleren Warmwasserflusses aus der Wasserentnahmestelle 8 veranlasst. Bevorzugt beträgt die Warmwassertemperatur in diesem Fall 35°C.
• C Weiterhin wird bevorzugt, dass die elektronische Steuerung 4 der Bedienungsvorrichtung 1 so konzipiert ist, dass sie durch ein dreimaliges Ausführen einer Hubbewegung des Schaltteils 14 bzw. Bedienelements 3 das elektronisch gesteuerte Mischventil 9 zum Freigeben eines mittleren Heisswasserflusses aus der Wasserentnahmestelle 8 veranlasst. Bevorzugt beträgt die Heisswassertemperatur in diesem Fall 60°C.

Three cases for choosing a mean water flow at a preselected temperature are particularly preferred:

• Preferably, the electronic control 4 of the operating device 1 is designed to be movable by a single stroke movement of the Switching part 14 and control element 3 causes the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 to release a mean cold water flow from the water tap 8. The cold water temperature in this case is preferably 10 ° C.
• It is also preferred that the electronic control 4 of the operating device 1 is designed so that it causes the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 to release a mean hot water flow from the water tapping point 8 by executing a stroke movement of the switching part 14 or operating element 3 twice. The hot water temperature in this case is preferably 35 ° C.
• C It is further preferred that the electronic control 4 of the operating device 1 is designed such that it causes the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 to release a mean flow of hot water from the water removal point 8 by executing a lifting movement of the switching part 14 or operating element 3 three times. The hot water temperature in this case is preferably 60 ° C.

In all three cases A-C performs a one-time, further carrying out a reciprocating or ab / up or up / down stroke movement of the switching member 14 and control element 3 for closing the electronically controlled mixing valve 9 and so to cancel the water supply. Such a two-way lifting movement, which according to the invention is used for selecting a mean water flow with a preselected temperature but also for closing the electronically controlled mixing valve 9, can be carried out very briefly and typically and preferably requires less than 1 second to carry out the same.

Preferably, the electronic controller 4 of the operating device 1 comprises a storage mode. In this, immediately after selecting a mean water flow with a preselected temperature according to one of the cases AC, changing the temperature by rotating the control element 3 and a simultaneous stay with the switching part 14 or control element 3 on the second level 12 over an activation period detected. This activation period is preferably 5 seconds, but can be adjusted as needed. After activation, the modified temperature values are stored so that the next time a medium water flow of preselected temperature is selected, the electronic control releases AC water with the newly stored values according to the cases.

Preferably, all current settings of the valve by means of simultaneous residence with the switching part 14 and control element 3 on the second level 12 can be stored during a Aktivierdauer. Accordingly, the electronic control 4 of the operating device 1 preferably comprises at least three memories S1, S2 and S3, to each of which a flux / temperature combination is arbitrary and depending on the current discretion (see comments on Fig. 5 ) can be assigned. The associated lifting movement can be referred to as a simple back, forth, up or down movement.

Preferably, the operating device 1 comprises an acoustic sounder 18 (see. Fig. 7 and 8th ), which is formed by the output of an acoustic signal for confirming each lifting movement of the switching part 14 or operating element 3.

The FIG. 8 shows views of a water tap 8 of a kitchen sink table 7 and a corresponding control device 1. It shows the Figure 8A a view of an operating device 1 according to the first embodiment, which is fixed to the base body 6 at the water outlet 8. In this case, the operating device 1 is integrated in a water tapping point 8. According to the orientation of the operating device 1, the switching part 14 is now pressed or touched from the side to assign the control element 3, a second functional level 12. Here, the operating device 1 comprises a transmission device 20, which is designed to transmit control commands from the operating element 3 to the electronic control 4, wherein this transmission device 20 is designed to be wired.

An optical display device 21 here depends preferably on the base body 6 and does not rotate with the operating element 3 designed as a rotary part.

This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art and already in connection with Fig. 5A has been described.

The FIG. 8B shows a view of an operating device 1 according to a sixth and seventh embodiment, which are attachable to the water tap 8 and which can be taken away and positioned virtually anywhere. This control device 1 is thus formed separately from this water outlet 8 can be arranged. Preferably, this control device 1 comprises a transmission device 20, which is designed to transmit control commands from the control element 3 to the electronic control unit 4, wherein this transmission device 20 is designed to be wireless.

Especially preferred is such an operating device 1, in which the transmission device 20 is also designed for the wireless transmission of electrical energy to the operating element 3. This transmission is preferably carried out with high-frequency radio waves.

An optical display device 21 is here preferably arranged at the foot of the fitting 8 and is thus not removable with the control element 3 designed as a rotary part. This is because the energy transfer is generally not sufficient to supply a display device 21 arranged on the operating element 3. This optical display device 21 is designed to display current settings of the operating device 1 or of the mixing valve 9. Preferably, this optical display device 21 comprises an RGB LED, as known per se from the prior art and already in connection with Fig. 5A has been described. As an alternative or in addition to such an optical display device 21 with an RGB LED, one or more color LEDs (two are shown) may also be arranged on the pedestal of the fitting 8.

For docking the removable control device 1 to the valve 8, this water outlet 8 preferably has a special surface 19 in the shape of a loading trough. The energy can be transmitted in the docked control device 1 by means of induction or by means of electrical contacts to this control device 1. For securely holding the operating device 1 to the valve 8 magnetic forces are preferably used. It is up to the person skilled in the art to determine which of the two functional partners comprises a permanent magnet and which a reversely poled permanent magnet or only a magnetizable metal plate. The use of electromagnets is possible in principle.

The FIG. 9 shows an operating device 1 for the water tapping point 8 a shower 7, which can be positioned virtually any of a wall, under a glass or ceramic plate thanks to a magnetizable plate. The data and energy transmission in this sixth and seventh embodiment of the operating device 1, which, as in Fig. 8 differ substantially by the height of the base body 6 also takes place wirelessly. In this example, the indication of the current temperature (37.5 ° C) and the current water consumption (68.9 I / min) is represented by numerical values. Of course, the control of the operating device 1 requires corresponding data, which are provided by known per se and correspondingly mounted sensors, such as PT100 sensors or flow meters available. A permanent magnet in the base body 6 ensures that the operating device 1 remains in its assigned place and does not fall down. Friction-increasing coatings on the underside of the main body 6 (not shown) preferably increase the operational safety and the stability of this operating device 1.

Any combinations of the features described and shown in the figures are within the scope of the present invention. The reference numerals in the figures refer to the same features, though not in any way described in detail.

Reference numerals:

1 operating device 2 first functional level 3 operating element 4 electronic control 5 electrical power supply 6 body 7 sanitary object 8th Water tap, tap 9 electronically controlled mixing valve 10 Cold water supply 11 Hot water connection 12 second functional level 13 distance 14 switching part 16 first sensor 17 second sensor 18 acoustic sounder 19 Surface fitting 20 transfer device 21 optical display device, RGB LED, color LEDs 22 magnet 23 guide 24 magnetizable plate 25 plexiglass ring 26 spring element 27 axis 28 surface

Claims (20)

1. A sanitary armature comprising:

   a water tapping point (8);

   an electronically controlled mixing valve (9) with cold water connection (10) and hot water connection (11),

   an operating device (1) for operating the water tapping point (8) having:

   (a) an operating element (3) rotatable in a first function plane (2) and in a second function plane (12), the second function plane (12) being aligned at a distance (13) parallel to the first function plane (2),

   (b) an electronic controller (4),

   (c) an electrical power supply (5), and

   (d) a base body (6) for fastening the operating device (1),

   characterized in that the operating device (1) comprises a spring element (26), which elastically holds the operating element (3) in the first function plane (2) and against the resistance of which the operating element (3) can be moved by means of a lifting movement into the second function plane (12), when the operating element (3) is released, the operating element springing back elastically into the first function plane (2),

   through a rotational movement of this operating element (3) in the first function plane (2), the temperature of the water exiting from the water tapping point (8) is variable independently of angle and position,

   and, through a rotational movement of this operating element (3) in the second function plane (12), the flow of the water exiting from the water tapping point (8) is variable independently of angle and position, the assignment of the first and second functional planes to the change of the temperature or the flow being exchangeable when devising the operating device (1).
2. The sanitary armature according to Claim 1, characterized in that this lifting movement is linear and is executable in a movement direction which is perpendicular to the two function planes (2, 12).
3. The sanitary armature according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the spring element (26) is arranged and implemented between the base body (6) and the operating element (3) so that its resistance counteracts a pressure on the operating element (3) for the movement thereof into the second functional plane (12).
4. The sanitary armature according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the spring element (26) is arranged and implemented between the base body (6) and the operating element (3) so that its resistance counteracts a pull on the operating element (3) for the movement thereof into the second functional plane (12).
5. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one spring element (26) is selected from a group which consists of at least one coiled spring, at least one magnet pair, and at least one piezo element, as well as arbitrary combinations of these elements.
6. The sanitary armature according to one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a first sensor (16) and a second sensor (17) for the mechanical, optical, capacitive, or inductive detection of the lifting movement and/or the rotational movement of the operating element (3).
7. The sanitary armature according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises a rotating switch having an incremental encoder with or without pushbutton function for the mechanical, optical, capacitive, or inductive detection of the lifting movement and/or the rotational movement of the operating element (3).
8. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an optical display device (21), which is implemented to display current settings of the operating device (1) and/or the mixing valve (9).
9. The sanitary armature according to Claim 8, characterized in that the optical display device (21) comprises an RGB LED or multiple color LEDs, which indicate the flow of cold and/or warm and/or hot water in various colors.
10. The sanitary armature according to Claim 8, characterized in that the optical display device (21) comprises an RGB LED, which is at least partially inserted into a Plexiglas ring (25) arranged on the operating device (1) or embedded in this Plexiglas ring (25), respectively.
11. The sanitary armature according to Claim 8, characterized in that the optical display device (21) comprises an RGB LED or multiple color LEDs, which are arranged at a distance to the operating device (1).
12. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electronic controller (4) is implemented as activatable for opening the electronically controlled mixing valve (9), this activation of the electronic controller (4) being able to be caused by an operator by means of at least one lifting movement of the operating element (3).
13. The sanitary armature according to Claim 12, characterized in that the electronic controller (4) is conceived so that, through a single execution of the lifting movement of the operating element (3), it causes the electronically controlled mixing valve (9) to release a moderate cold water flow from the water tapping point (8).
14. The sanitary armature according to Claim 12, characterized in that the electronic controller (4) is conceived so that, through a double execution of a lifting movement of the operating element (3), it causes the electronically controlled mixing valve (9) to release a moderate warm water flow from the water tapping point (8).
15. The sanitary armature according to Claim 12, characterized in that the electronic controller (4) is conceived so that, through a triple execution of a lifting movement of the operating element (3), it causes the electronically controlled mixing valve (9) to release a moderate hot water flow from the water tapping point (8).
16. The sanitary armature according to one of Claims 13, 14, or 15, characterized in that the electronic controller (4) comprises a storage mode, which is activatable by lingering using the operating element (3) on the second level (12) over an activation duration, so that changed values are stored and become active the next time water is acquired.
17. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an acoustic tone generator (18), which is implemented to confirm each lifting movement of the operating element (3) by outputting an acoustic signal.
18. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is implemented as integrated in a water tapping point (8), as arranged on a surface (19) of a water tapping point (8), or as arranged separately from this water tapping point (8).
19. The sanitary armature according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a transmission device (20), which is implemented to transmit control commands from the operating element (3) to the electronic controller (4), this transmission device (20) being implemented as wire-bound or wireless.
20. The sanitary armature according to Claim 19, characterized in that the transmission device (20) is additionally implemented for the wireless transmission of electrical power to the operating element (3).

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