EP2460942B1 - Automatic sanitary armature with monitored cleaning function - Google Patents

Automatic sanitary armature with monitored cleaning function Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2460942B1
EP2460942B1 EP11009352.3A EP11009352A EP2460942B1 EP 2460942 B1 EP2460942 B1 EP 2460942B1 EP 11009352 A EP11009352 A EP 11009352A EP 2460942 B1 EP2460942 B1 EP 2460942B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
water
shut
housing
flushing
proximity sensor
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EP11009352.3A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2460942A2 (en
EP2460942A3 (en
Inventor
Achim Mielke
Heiko Schönbeck
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Grohe AG
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Grohe AG
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/05—Arrangements of devices on wash-basins, baths, sinks, or the like for remote control of taps
    • E03C1/055—Electrical control devices, e.g. with push buttons, control panels or the like
    • E03C1/057—Electrical control devices, e.g. with push buttons, control panels or the like touchless, i.e. using sensors
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/04—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths
    • E03C1/041—Water-basin installations specially adapted to wash-basins or baths having provisions against scalding, e.g. temperature limiting devices, external covers

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an automatic sanitary fitting with monitored flushing function.
  • Automatic sanitary fittings are basically known and are characterized inter alia by the fact that when a proximity sensor detects the approach of a hand to the housing of the sanitary fitting, the discharge of water automatically begins, either for an adjustable period of time or so long until the proximity sensor in the area of the housing no longer detects a hand. Even in the last-mentioned case, when one hand is not recognized, the outflow of water can still take place for a certain period of time, in order then to be ended automatically.
  • Automatic sanitary fittings are particularly in public places such as hospitals, airports, theaters, restaurants, outdoor and indoor pools, changing rooms of sports facilities, etc. used. They generally have a one-piece housing, which is provided with at least one water inlet opening, to which a water supply line can be connected. If the housing has a manually or automatically adjustable mixing valve, the housing is provided with a further water inlet opening, to which a separate water supply line can be connected. In this case, the housing then has a cold and a hot water inlet opening. Furthermore, the housing is provided with a water outlet and has a water outlet opening. In the case of a washbasin mixer, the water outlet is usually removed from the housing.
  • the water shutoff valve which is usually a solenoid valve, can be located inside or outside the enclosure Housing (namely in the water supply line) may be arranged.
  • the housing has a proximity sensor, which is usually an infrared sensor. It can be detected via the proximity sensor whether there is a hand in the region of the water outlet and in particular in the region of the water outlet opening of the water outlet or approaches this area.
  • the water flow through the housing of the sanitary fitting is automatically released to then be shut off again in case of non-recognition of the hand (possibly after a fixed or adjustable period of time from the non-detection of the hand).
  • the automatic shut-off and release of water flow through the housing is done by an evaluation and control unit, which is connected to both the proximity sensor and receives signals from this and outputs control signals to the automatically actuated water shut-off valve.
  • Such automatic sanitary fittings exist e.g. as washstand fittings and showers, in the latter case, the water outlet is formed by the shower head (and optionally by its supply line).
  • the object of the invention is to provide an automatic sanitary fitting, which allows using the proximity sensor and An horrungsaktuatorik and thus in a simple way monitoring the flushing function.
  • the monitoring of the rinsing function is achieved in the aforementioned sanitary fitting according to the invention that the evaluation and control unit during the release of the Wasser mallaufweges for the purpose of flushing the same and / or the water supply line when the proximity sensor during the water passage time in the area below the water outlet opening of the housing detects an object (eg hand), the Wasserabsperrventil to shut off the Wasser mallaufweges drives, the detection range of the proximity sensor by the evaluation and control unit is variable and the detection range of the proximity sensor during the flushing is greater than for automatic release of the water flow path when the proximity sensor at shut off Wasser mallaufweg detects the approach of an object.
  • the signal supplied by the proximity sensor during the automatic rinsing function is evaluated in order to detect a hand approaching the water outlet or the water outlet opening during the automatic rinsing function, thereby terminating the automatic rinsing function or interrupting it for the duration of the detection of one hand.
  • additional functionality of the automatic sanitary fitting no additional sensor or actuator components or the like. required. Rather, this additional functionality can only be realized by a supplementary programming of the evaluation and control unit of the automatic sanitary fitting. This leads to low production costs, which is why an additional functionality provided according to the invention equipped automatic sanitary fitting can be offered inexpensively.
  • the flushing of the housing and optionally the water supply line or lines for the purpose of exchanging stagnant water or for the purpose of thermal disinfection can be automatically monitored.
  • the housing of the automatic sanitary fitting according to the invention may optionally have a mixing valve which is adjustable either manually or automatically.
  • the proximity sensor of the sanitary fitting according to the invention monitors the area below the water outlet and the area in front of it or the area below and in front of the water outlet opening. When looking at the housing from the front and looking at the water outlet and the water outlet opening, it is thus behind the water outlet opening.
  • the proximity sensor can operate, for example, capacitively or IR-based.
  • the use of magnetically sensitive proximity sensors is also conceivable, which depends on which type of objects are to be detected.
  • the range of the proximity sensor is greater during the monitoring of a flushing function (increased safety distance) than with the "normal" function of the proximity sensor for enabling the water flow path.
  • the automatic sanitary fittings are provided with a fixed water outlet.
  • the proximity sensor is pivotally mounted together with the water outlet to the housing, so mitschwenkt with a water outlet. This has the advantage that the water outlet opening can be monitored in each swivel position of the water outlet by the proximity sensor on the approach through an object.
  • the activation of the automatic flushing functions can in the sanitary fitting according to the invention either by a remote control or for example done by "manipulation" of the proximity sensor.
  • the remote control sends signals to the proximity sensor, whereby the evaluation and control unit connected to the proximity sensor interprets these signals accordingly to activate the flushing function (stagnation water removal or thermal disinfection).
  • a manipulation of the proximity sensor is for example possible in such a way that the proximity sensor is covered manually for a certain period of time, whereupon, for example, an acoustic or optical signal can be emitted which indicates that the flushing function starts automatically after a preset known period of time.
  • the person initiating the flushing function still has sufficient time to remove his hand from a washbasin tap or, in the case of a shower tap, from the showerhead before the flushing function is initiated.
  • the automatic sanitary fitting may further be characterized in that the evaluation and control the Wasserabsperrventil during the purpose of flushing the housing and optionally the water supply line water passage to shut off the same for the duration of detection of an object in the water outlet opening at break the water passage time period controls and that the evaluation and control unit controls the water shut-off valve in subsequent non-detection of the object in the region of the water outlet opening and optionally after a fixed or adjustable period of time to re-enable the water flow.
  • the automatic rinse function can be completely stopped when the approach of a hand is detected during the course of the rinse function, or the automatic rinse function is interrupted for the duration of the detection of a hand or generally an object, then thereafter for the duration the remaining time remaining of the set water passage time continues to be performed.
  • the inventive automatic (namely electrically controlled) working fitting can be used in all sanitary areas, where it comes to the delivery of (domestic) water.
  • the invention can be used in water tables and showers.
  • the proximity sensor can be arranged in or on the housing or outside of the housing.
  • the water shutoff valve may be housed in the housing or in a water supply line to the housing.
  • the sanitary fitting 10 has a one-piece housing 12, which can be mentally divided into a first housing part 14 and a second housing part 16 protruding therefrom.
  • the first housing part 14 is provided with at least one water inlet opening 18 for connection to a water supply line 20.
  • an automatically actuated Wasserabsperrventil 22 for example, designed as a solenoid valve
  • the evaluation and control unit 24 receives input signals which are generated by a proximity sensor 26 (for example IR proximity sensor).
  • the proximity sensor 26 is located below the second housing part 16 and is arranged on the first housing part 14.
  • the proximity sensor 26 detects objects and in particular a hand in the area below the second housing part 16.
  • This second housing part 16 is formed in this embodiment as a water outlet 28 and has a water outlet opening 30. Between the water inlet or outlet openings 18 on the one hand and the water outlet opening 30 on the other side, a water passage 32 extends through the housing, whereby the proximity sensor 26 thus detects, for example, a hand approaching the water outlet opening 30.
  • the water passage through the housing 12 is automatically released when the proximity sensor 26 detects the approach by a hand.
  • the water pass is automatically ended again when the proximity sensor 26 in the region of the water outlet opening 30 detects no hand.
  • the proximity sensor 26 is used according to the invention for monitoring this rinsing function and, in particular, for detecting a hand approaching during the rinsing function.
  • the water flow is automatically terminated, which injury hazards are prevented by contact of the hand with exiting the fitting 10 hot water.
  • the rinsing function for the thermal disinfection of the fitting 10 no longer needs to be monitored by the person initiating this rinsing function person, which can therefore be removed from the valve 10 to initiate the thermal disinfection in, for example, in an adjoining room automatic sanitary fittings.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine automatische Sanitärarmatur mit überwachter Spülfunktion.The invention relates to an automatic sanitary fitting with monitored flushing function.

Automatische Sanitärarmaturen sind grundsätzlich bekannt und zeichnen sich unter anderem dadurch aus, dass dann, wenn durch einen Näherungssensor die Annäherung einer Hand an das Gehäuse der Sanitärarmatur erkannt wird, der Austritt von Wasser automatisch beginnt, und zwar entweder für eine einstellbare Zeitspanne oder aber so lange, bis der Näherungssensor im Bereich des Gehäuses keine Hand mehr erkennt. Auch im letzten genannten Fall kann bei Nicht-Erkennung einer Hand der Auslauf von Wasser noch für eine bestimmte Zeitspanne erfolgen, um dann automatisch beendet zu werden.Automatic sanitary fittings are basically known and are characterized inter alia by the fact that when a proximity sensor detects the approach of a hand to the housing of the sanitary fitting, the discharge of water automatically begins, either for an adjustable period of time or so long until the proximity sensor in the area of the housing no longer detects a hand. Even in the last-mentioned case, when one hand is not recognized, the outflow of water can still take place for a certain period of time, in order then to be ended automatically.

Automatische Sanitärarmaturen werden insbesondere an öffentlichen Plätzen wie in Krankenhäusern, Flughäfen, Theatern, Restaurants, Frei- und Hallenbädern, Umkleideräumen von Sportstätten u.dgl. eingesetzt. Sie weisen im Allgemeinen ein einteiliges Gehäuse auf, das mit mindestens einer Wasserzulauföffnung versehen ist, an die eine Wasserzulaufleitung anschließbar ist. Sofern das Gehäuse über ein manuell oder automatisch einstellbares Mischventil verfügt, ist das Gehäuse mit einer weiteren Wasserzulauföffnung, an die eine separate Wasserzulaufleitung anschließbar ist, versehen. In diesem Fall verfügt das Gehäuse dann also über eine Kalt- und eine Warmwasserzulauföffnung. Ferner ist das Gehäuse mit einem Wasserauslauf versehen und weist eine Wasserauslauföffnung auf. Bei einer Waschtisch-Armatur steht der Wasserauslauf im Regelfall vom Gehäuse ab. Zur automatischen Betätigung des Wasserdurchlaufs durch das Gehäuse gehört zur automatischen Sanitärarmatur auch ein automatisch betätigbares Wasserabsperrventil zur wahlweisen Absperrung und Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges durch das Gehäuse. Das Wasserabsperrventil, bei dem es sich im Regelfall um ein Magnetventil handelt, kann innerhalb des Gehäuses oder auch außerhalb des Gehäuses (nämlich in der Wasserzulaufleitung) angeordnet sein. Unterhalb des Wasserauslaufs weist das Gehäuse einen Näherungssensor auf, bei dem es sich zumeist um einen Infrarot-Sensor handelt. Über den Näherungssensor kann erkannt werden, ob sich im Bereich des Wasserauslaufs und insbesondere im Bereich der Wasserauslauföffnung des Wasserauslaufs eine Hand befindet bzw. sich diesem Bereich nähert. Dann nämlich wird der Wasserdurchlauf durch das Gehäuse der Sanitärarmatur automatisch freigegeben, um anschließend bei Nicht-Erkennung der Hand wieder abgesperrt zu werden (gegebenenfalls nach Ablauf einer festen oder einstellbaren Zeitspanne ab der Nicht-Erkennung der Hand). Die automatische Absperrung und Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufs durch das Gehäuse erfolgt durch eine Auswerte- und Steuereinheit, die sowohl mit dem Näherungssensor verbunden ist und von diesem Signale empfängt als auch Ansteuerungssignale an das automatisch betätigbare Wasserabsperrventil ausgibt.Automatic sanitary fittings are particularly in public places such as hospitals, airports, theaters, restaurants, outdoor and indoor pools, changing rooms of sports facilities, etc. used. They generally have a one-piece housing, which is provided with at least one water inlet opening, to which a water supply line can be connected. If the housing has a manually or automatically adjustable mixing valve, the housing is provided with a further water inlet opening, to which a separate water supply line can be connected. In this case, the housing then has a cold and a hot water inlet opening. Furthermore, the housing is provided with a water outlet and has a water outlet opening. In the case of a washbasin mixer, the water outlet is usually removed from the housing. For automatic operation of the water flow through the housing belongs to the automatic sanitary fitting and an automatically actuated water shut-off valve for selectively blocking and releasing the water flow path through the housing. The water shutoff valve, which is usually a solenoid valve, can be located inside or outside the enclosure Housing (namely in the water supply line) may be arranged. Below the water outlet, the housing has a proximity sensor, which is usually an infrared sensor. It can be detected via the proximity sensor whether there is a hand in the region of the water outlet and in particular in the region of the water outlet opening of the water outlet or approaches this area. Then namely, the water flow through the housing of the sanitary fitting is automatically released to then be shut off again in case of non-recognition of the hand (possibly after a fixed or adjustable period of time from the non-detection of the hand). The automatic shut-off and release of water flow through the housing is done by an evaluation and control unit, which is connected to both the proximity sensor and receives signals from this and outputs control signals to the automatically actuated water shut-off valve.

Derartige automatische Sanitärarmaturen existieren z.B. als Waschtisch-Armaturen und als Brausen, wobei im letztgenannten Fall der Wasserauslauf durch den Brausekopf (und gegebenenfalls durch dessen Zuleitung) gebildet ist.Such automatic sanitary fittings exist e.g. as washstand fittings and showers, in the latter case, the water outlet is formed by the shower head (and optionally by its supply line).

Je nach der Umgebung, in der die automatische Sanitärarmatur eingesetzt wird, ist auf regelmäßige Spülung des Gehäuses und gegebenenfalls der Wasserzulaufleitung (-leitungen) zu achten. Durch eine derartige Spülung können die Wasserzulaufleitung bzw. -leitungen (und das Gehäuse) von Stagnationswasser befreit werden bzw. das Gehäuse bzw. der Wasserdurchlaufweg zwischen der Wasserzulauföffnung (den Wasserzulauföffnungen) und der Wasserauslauföffnung sowie die Wasserzulauföffnung thermisch desinfiziert werden. Derartige Spülfunktionen sind bei automatischen Sanitärarmaturen grundsätzlich bekannt. Eine Sanitärarmatur der zuvor genannten Art ist beispielsweise in DE 38 38 046 C2 beschrieben.Depending on the environment in which the automatic sanitary fitting is used, regular rinsing of the housing and, if necessary, the water supply line (lines) must be ensured. By means of such flushing, the water supply line (s) (and the housing) can be freed of stagnant water or the housing or water passageway between the water inlet opening (the water inlet openings) and the water outlet opening and the water inlet opening can be thermally disinfected. Such flushing functions are basically known in automatic sanitary fittings. A sanitary fitting of the aforementioned type is for example in DE 38 38 046 C2 described.

Aus Sicherheitsgründen und insbesondere zur Vermeidung von Körperverletzungen ist es ratsam, die automatischen Spülfunktionen einer Sanitärarmatur und insbesondere die Spülfunktion zur thermischen Desinfizierung zu überwachen. Denn gerade im letztgenannten Fall tritt sehr heißes Wasser aus, das zu Verbrühungen einer Hand (z.B. im Falle einer Waschtisch-Armatur) oder des Körpers (z.B. bei einer automatischen Brause) führen kann, wenn während der Spülfunktion, die über mehrere Minuten anhalten kann, sich eine Person der Armatur nähert und mit ihrer Hand oder dem Körper in den austretenden heißen Wasserstrahl gerät. Aber auch die Spülfunktion zur Befreiung des Gehäuses und der Wasserzulaufleitungen von Stagnationswasser kann mitunter dazu führen, dass heißes Wasser austritt, und zwar dann, wenn die Sanitärarmatur über ein manuell oder auf sonstige Weise betätigbares Mischventil verfügt, das zur Ausgabe von Heißwasser eingestellt ist.For safety reasons, and in particular to avoid personal injury, it is advisable to monitor the automatic flushing functions of a sanitary fitting and in particular the flushing function for thermal disinfection. Because just in the latter case, very hot water comes out, the Scalding of a hand (eg in the case of a washbasin faucet) or of the body (eg in an automatic shower) may result if during the rinsing function, which can last for several minutes, a person approaches the faucet and with his or her hand or Body in the exiting hot water jet device. But also the flushing function to free the housing and the water supply lines of stagnant water can sometimes cause hot water to escape, namely, when the sanitary fitting has a manually or otherwise operable mixing valve, which is set to output hot water.

Normalerweise erfolgt die Überwachung der zuvor genannten automatisch erfolgenden Spülfunktionen dadurch, dass die die Spülfunktion auslösende Person so lange im Bereich der automatischen Sanitärarmatur verharrt, bis die Spülfunktion abgeschlossen ist. Der damit verbundene Zeitaufwand ist insbesondere dann nicht tolerabel, wenn eine Vielzahl von insbesondere in unterschiedlichen Räumen befindlichen automatischen Sanitärarmaturen z.B. thermisch desinfiziert werden müssen. In DE 38 38 046 C2 wird vorgeschlagen, die automatische Sanitärarmatur mit einer optischen und/oder akustischen Warnvorrichtung zwecks Vermeidung von Verbrüh-Gefahren zu versehen. Eine derartige Warnvorrichtung verhindert allerdings nicht, dass es nicht doch zu Verletzungen kommen kann. AT-U-010 563 offenbart eine gattungsgemäße automatische Sanitärarmatur 1 mit überwachter Spülfunktion.Normally, the monitoring of the aforementioned automatic flushing functions takes place in that the person triggering the flushing function remains in the area of the automatic sanitary fitting until the flushing function has been completed. The associated expenditure of time is not tolerable, in particular, if a large number of automatic sanitary fittings, in particular in different rooms, have to be thermally disinfected, for example. In DE 38 38 046 C2 It is proposed to provide the automatic sanitary fitting with an optical and / or acoustic warning device in order to avoid scalding hazards. However, such a warning device does not prevent that it can not come to injuries. AT-U-010,563 discloses a generic automatic sanitary fitting 1 with monitored flushing function.

Aufgabe der Erfindung ist es, eine automatische Sanitärarmatur zu schaffen, die unter Verwendung der Näherungssensorik und Ansteuerungsaktuatorik und damit auf einfache Art und Weise eine Überwachung der Spülfunktion ermöglicht.The object of the invention is to provide an automatic sanitary fitting, which allows using the proximity sensor and Ansteuerungsaktuatorik and thus in a simple way monitoring the flushing function.

Zur Lösung dieser Aufgabe wird mit der Erfindung eine automatische Sanitärarmatur mit überwachter Spülfunktion vorgeschlagen, die versehen ist mit

  • einem Gehäuse, das mindestens eine Wasserzulauföffnung, an die eine Wasserzulaufleitung anschließbar ist, und eine Wasserauslauföffnung aufweist, wobei zwischen der mindestens einen Wasserzulauföffnung und der Wasserauslauföffnung ein Wasserdurchlaufweg verläuft,
  • einem automatisch betätigbaren Wasserabsperrventil zur wahlweisen Absperrung und Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges durch das Gehäuse,
  • einem Näherungssensor zur Erkennung eines sich dem Bereich unterhalb der Wasserauslauföffnung nähernden Objekts und
  • einer mit dem Näherungssensor und dem Wasserabsperrventil verbundenen Auswerte- und Steuereinheit, die das Wasserabsperrventil bei Erkennung eines sich im Bereich der Wasserauslauföffnung befindenden Objekts (z.B. Hand) zur Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges ansteuert und die das Wasserabsperrventil bei anschließender Nicht-Erkennung des Objekts (z.B. Hand) sowie optional nach Ablauf einer festen oder einstellbaren Zeitspanne zur Wiederabsperrung des Wasserdurchlaufweges ansteuert,
  • wobei das Wasserabsperrventil von der Auswerte- und Steuereinheit zur Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges zwecks Spülung desselben und/oder der Wasserzulaufleitung für die Dauer einer optional einstellbaren Wasserdurchlauf-Zeitspanne ansteuerbar ist.
To solve this problem, an automatic sanitary fitting with a controlled flushing function is proposed with the invention, which is provided with
  • a housing having at least one water inlet opening to which a water supply line is connectable, and a water outlet opening, wherein a water passageway runs between the at least one water inlet opening and the water outlet opening,
  • an automatically actuated water shut-off valve for selectively shutting off and releasing the water passageway through the housing,
  • a proximity sensor for detecting an object approaching the area below the water outlet opening and
  • an evaluation and control unit connected to the proximity sensor and the water shut-off valve which activates the water shut-off valve upon detection of an object located in the region of the water outlet opening (eg hand) for releasing the water flow path and which closes the water shut-off valve during subsequent non-detection of the object (eg hand) and, optionally, after expiration of a fixed or adjustable period of time for re-blocking the water flow path,
  • wherein the Wasserabsperrventil of the evaluation and control unit for releasing the Wasserdurchlaufweges for the purpose of flushing the same and / or the water supply line for the duration of an optionally adjustable water passage time period is controlled.

Die Überwachung der Spülfunktion wird bei der zuvor genannten Sanitärarmatur erfindungsgemäß dadurch erzielt, dass die Auswerte- und Steuereinheit während der Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges zwecks Spülung desselben und/oder der Wasserzulaufleitung dann, wenn der Näherungssensor während der Wasserdurchlauf-Zeitspanne im Bereich unterhalb der Wasserauslauföffnung des Gehäuses ein Objekt (z.B. Hand) erkennt, das Wasserabsperrventil zum Absperren des Wasserdurchlaufweges ansteuert, wobei die Erfassungsreichweite des Näherungssensors durch die Auswerte-und Steuereinheit veränderbar ist und die Erfassungsreichweite des Näherungssensors während der Spülung größer ist als zur automatischen Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges, wenn der Näherungssensor bei abgesperrtem Wasserdurchlaufweg die Annäherung eines Objekts erkennt. Erfindungsgemäß wird also das während der automatischen Spülfunktion vom Näherungssensor gelieferte Signal ausgewertet, um eine sich während der automatischen Spülfunktion dem Wasserauslauf bzw. der Wasserauslauföffnung nähernde Hand zu erkennen, so dass dadurch die automatische Spülfunktion beendet oder für die Dauer der Erkennung einer Hand unterbrochen wird. Für diese Zusatzfunktionalität der automatischen Sanitärarmatur sind keinerlei zusätzliche Sensorik- bzw. Aktuatorik-Bauelemente o.dgl. erforderlich. Vielmehr kann diese Zusatzfunktionalität einzig und allein durch eine ergänzende Programmierung der Auswerte- und Steuereinheit der automatischen Sanitärarmatur realisiert werden. Dies führt zu niedrigen Gestehungskosten, weshalb eine mit der erfindungsgemäß vorgesehenen Zusatzfunktionalität ausgestattete automatische Sanitärarmatur kostengünstig angeboten werden kann.The monitoring of the rinsing function is achieved in the aforementioned sanitary fitting according to the invention that the evaluation and control unit during the release of the Wasserdurchlaufweges for the purpose of flushing the same and / or the water supply line when the proximity sensor during the water passage time in the area below the water outlet opening of the housing detects an object (eg hand), the Wasserabsperrventil to shut off the Wasserdurchlaufweges drives, the detection range of the proximity sensor by the evaluation and control unit is variable and the detection range of the proximity sensor during the flushing is greater than for automatic release of the water flow path when the proximity sensor at shut off Wasserdurchlaufweg detects the approach of an object. According to the invention, the signal supplied by the proximity sensor during the automatic rinsing function is evaluated in order to detect a hand approaching the water outlet or the water outlet opening during the automatic rinsing function, thereby terminating the automatic rinsing function or interrupting it for the duration of the detection of one hand. For this additional functionality of the automatic sanitary fitting no additional sensor or actuator components or the like. required. Rather, this additional functionality can only be realized by a supplementary programming of the evaluation and control unit of the automatic sanitary fitting. This leads to low production costs, which is why an additional functionality provided according to the invention equipped automatic sanitary fitting can be offered inexpensively.

Wie bereits oben erwähnt, kann bei der erfindungsgemäßen automatischen Sanitärarmatur die Spülung des Gehäuses und gegebenenfalls der Wasserzulaufleitung bzw. -leitungen zum Zwecke des Austauschs von Stagnationswasser oder zum Zwecke der thermischen Desinfektion automatisch überwacht erfolgen. Das Gehäuse der erfindungsgemäßen automatischen Sanitärarmatur kann optional ein Mischventil aufweisen, das entweder manuell oder automatisch einstellbar ist.As already mentioned above, in the automatic sanitary fitting according to the invention, the flushing of the housing and optionally the water supply line or lines for the purpose of exchanging stagnant water or for the purpose of thermal disinfection can be automatically monitored. The housing of the automatic sanitary fitting according to the invention may optionally have a mixing valve which is adjustable either manually or automatically.

Der Näherungssensor der erfindungsgemäßen Sanitärarmatur überwacht den Bereich unterhalb des Wasserauslaufs und den Bereich vor diesem bzw. den Bereich unterhalb und vor der Wasserauslassöffnung. Bei Betrachtung des Gehäuses von vorne und bei Betrachtung des Wasserauslaufs und der Wasserauslauföffnung befindet er sich also hinter der Wasserauslauföffnung. Der Näherungssensor kann beispielsweise kapazitiv oder IR-basiert arbeiten. Auch die Verwendung von magnetisch sensitiven Näherungssensoren ist grundsätzlich denkbar, was davon abhängt, welche Art von Objekten erkannt werden sollen. Die Reichweite des Näherungssensors ist während der Überwachung einer Spülfunktion größer (vergrößerter Sicherheitsabstand) als bei "normaler" Funktion des Näherungssensors zur Freigabe des Wasserdurchlaufweges.The proximity sensor of the sanitary fitting according to the invention monitors the area below the water outlet and the area in front of it or the area below and in front of the water outlet opening. When looking at the housing from the front and looking at the water outlet and the water outlet opening, it is thus behind the water outlet opening. The proximity sensor can operate, for example, capacitively or IR-based. The use of magnetically sensitive proximity sensors is also conceivable, which depends on which type of objects are to be detected. The range of the proximity sensor is greater during the monitoring of a flushing function (increased safety distance) than with the "normal" function of the proximity sensor for enabling the water flow path.

Normalerweise sind die automatischen Sanitärarmaturen mit einem feststehenden Wasserauslauf versehen. Im Bereich von Laboratorien, aber auch im Küchen- sowie im Badezimmerbereich ist es üblich, Sanitärarmaturen mit schwenkbaren Wasserausläufen zu verwenden. Bei einer derartigen Sanitärarmatur ist es zweckmäßig, wenn der Näherungssensor zusammen mit dem Wasserauslauf an dem Gehäuse schwenkbar angeordnet ist, also mit einem Wasserauslauf mitschwenkt. Dies hat den Vorteil, dass die Wasserauslauföffnung in jeder Schwenkposition des Wasserauslaufs durch den Näherungssensor auf die Annäherung durch ein Objekt hin überwacht werden kann.Normally, the automatic sanitary fittings are provided with a fixed water outlet. In the field of laboratories, but also in the kitchen and in the bathroom sector, it is customary to use sanitary fittings with swivel water outlets. In such a sanitary fitting, it is advantageous if the proximity sensor is pivotally mounted together with the water outlet to the housing, so mitschwenkt with a water outlet. This has the advantage that the water outlet opening can be monitored in each swivel position of the water outlet by the proximity sensor on the approach through an object.

Die Aktivierung der automatischen Spülfunktionen kann bei der erfindungsgemäßen Sanitärarmatur entweder durch eine Fernsteuerung oder aber beispielsweise durch "Manipulation" des Näherungssensors erfolgen. Die Fernsteuerung sendet Signale an den Näherungssensor aus, wobei die mit dem Näherungssensor verbundene Auswerte- und Steuereinheit diese Signale entsprechend interpretiert, um die Spülfunktion (Stagnationswasserentfernung oder thermische Desinfektion) zu aktivieren. Eine Manipulation des Näherungssensor ist beispielsweise dergestalt möglich, dass der Näherungssensor für eine bestimmte Zeitspanne manuell abgedeckt wird, woraufhin beispielsweise ein akustisches oder optisches Signal ausgesendet werden kann, das anzeigt, dass nach einer voreingestellten bekannten Zeitspanne die Spülfunktion automatisch startet. Damit hat die die Spülfunktion initiierende Person beispielsweise noch ausreichend Zeit, ihre Hand von einer Waschtisch-Armatur oder im Falle einer Brause-Armatur sich von der Brause zu entfernen, bevor die Spülfunktion eingeleitet wird.The activation of the automatic flushing functions can in the sanitary fitting according to the invention either by a remote control or for example done by "manipulation" of the proximity sensor. The remote control sends signals to the proximity sensor, whereby the evaluation and control unit connected to the proximity sensor interprets these signals accordingly to activate the flushing function (stagnation water removal or thermal disinfection). A manipulation of the proximity sensor is for example possible in such a way that the proximity sensor is covered manually for a certain period of time, whereupon, for example, an acoustic or optical signal can be emitted which indicates that the flushing function starts automatically after a preset known period of time. Thus, for example, the person initiating the flushing function still has sufficient time to remove his hand from a washbasin tap or, in the case of a shower tap, from the showerhead before the flushing function is initiated.

In vorteilhafter Weiterbildung der Erfindung kann die automatische Sanitärarmatur ferner dadurch gekennzeichnet sein, dass die Auswerte- und Steuereinheit das Wasserabsperrventil während des zwecks Spülung des Gehäuses und optional der Wasserzulaufleitung erfolgenden Wasserdurchlaufs zur Absperrung desselben für die Dauer der Erkennung eines Objekts im Bereich der Wasserauslauföffnung bei Unterbrechung der Wasserdurchlauf-Zeitspanne ansteuert und dass die Auswerte- und Steuereinheit das Wasserabsperrventil bei anschließender Nicht-Erkennung des Objekts im Bereich der Wasserauslauföffnung und optional nach Ablauf einer festen oder einstellbaren Zeitspanne zur Wiederfreigabe des Wasserdurchlaufs ansteuert.In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the automatic sanitary fitting may further be characterized in that the evaluation and control the Wasserabsperrventil during the purpose of flushing the housing and optionally the water supply line water passage to shut off the same for the duration of detection of an object in the water outlet opening at break the water passage time period controls and that the evaluation and control unit controls the water shut-off valve in subsequent non-detection of the object in the region of the water outlet opening and optionally after a fixed or adjustable period of time to re-enable the water flow.

Mit anderen Worten kann also die automatische Spülfunktion vollständig abgebrochen werden, wenn die Annäherung einer Hand während des Ablaufs der Spülfunktion erkannt wird, oder aber die automatische Spülfunktion wird für die Dauer der Erkennung einer Hand bzw. allgemein eines Objekts unterbrochen, um danach für die Dauer der noch verbleibenden Restzeit der eingestellten Wasserdurchlauf-Zeitspanne weiter durchgeführt zu werden.In other words, therefore, the automatic rinse function can be completely stopped when the approach of a hand is detected during the course of the rinse function, or the automatic rinse function is interrupted for the duration of the detection of a hand or generally an object, then thereafter for the duration the remaining time remaining of the set water passage time continues to be performed.

Die erfindungsgemäße automatisch (nämlich elektrisch angesteuert) arbeitende Armatur kann in sämtlichen Sanitärbereichen, in denen es um die Abgabe von (Brauch-)Wasser geht, eingesetzt werden. Vornehmlich kann die Erfindung bei Wassertischen und Brausen eingesetzt werden. Je nach Ausgestaltung des Gehäuses als Unterputz- oder Aufputz-Variante bzw. auf einen Wasch- oder Labortisch oder auf einer Küchenspüle kann der Näherungssensor in oder am Gehäuse oder außerhalb des Gehäuses angeordnet sein. Ebenso kann das Wasserabsperrventil im Gehäuse oder in einer Wasserzulaufleitung zum Gehäuse untergebracht sein.The inventive automatic (namely electrically controlled) working fitting can be used in all sanitary areas, where it comes to the delivery of (domestic) water. Notably, the invention can be used in water tables and showers. Depending on the design of the housing as a flush-mounted or surface-mounted version or on a washing or laboratory bench or on a kitchen sink, the proximity sensor can be arranged in or on the housing or outside of the housing. Likewise, the water shutoff valve may be housed in the housing or in a water supply line to the housing.

Ein Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung wird nachfolgend unter Bezugnahme auf die Zeichnung näher erläutert, in der eine automatische Sanitärarmatur mit schematisch dargestellter Näherungssensorik und Wasserabsperrventil-Betätigungsaktuatorik gezeigt ist.An embodiment of the invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing, in which an automatic sanitary fitting with schematically illustrated proximity sensor and Wasserabsperrventil Betätigungsaktuatorik is shown.

Die Sanitärarmatur 10 weist ein einteiliges Gehäuse 12 auf, das gedanklich in einen ersten Gehäuseteil 14 und einen davon abstehenden zweiten Gehäuseteil 16 unterteilt werden kann. Der erste Gehäuseteil 14 ist mit mindestens einer Wasserzulauföffnung 18 zum Anschluss an eine Wasserzulaufleitung 20 versehen. In dem ersten Gehäuseteil 14 (oder alternativ in der Wasserzulaufleitung 20) befindet sich ein automatisch betätigbares Wasserabsperrventil 22 (beispielsweise als Magnetventil ausgeführt), das von einer Auswerte- und Steuereinheit 24 angesteuert wird. Die Auswerte- und Steuereinheit 24 empfängt Eingangssignale, die von einem Näherungssensor 26 (beispielweise IR-Näherungssensor) erzeugt werden. Der Näherungssensor 26 befindet sich unterhalb des zweiten Gehäuseteils 16 und ist am ersten Gehäuseteil 14 angeordnet. Der Näherungssensor 26 erfasst Objekte und insbesondere eine Hand im Bereich unterhalb des zweiten Gehäuseteils 16. Dieser zweite Gehäuseteil 16 ist in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel als Wasserauslauf 28 ausgebildet und weist eine Wasserauslauföffnung 30 auf. Zwischen der oder den Wasserzulauföffnungen 18 einerseits und der Wasserauslassöffnung 30 andererseits erstreckt sich durch das Gehäuse ein Wasserdurchlaufweg 32, wobei der Näherungssensor 26 also beispielsweise eine sich der Wasserauslauföffnung 30 nähernde Hand erfasst.The sanitary fitting 10 has a one-piece housing 12, which can be mentally divided into a first housing part 14 and a second housing part 16 protruding therefrom. The first housing part 14 is provided with at least one water inlet opening 18 for connection to a water supply line 20. In the first housing part 14 (or alternatively in the water supply line 20) is an automatically actuated Wasserabsperrventil 22 (for example, designed as a solenoid valve), which is controlled by an evaluation and control unit 24. The evaluation and control unit 24 receives input signals which are generated by a proximity sensor 26 (for example IR proximity sensor). The proximity sensor 26 is located below the second housing part 16 and is arranged on the first housing part 14. The proximity sensor 26 detects objects and in particular a hand in the area below the second housing part 16. This second housing part 16 is formed in this embodiment as a water outlet 28 and has a water outlet opening 30. Between the water inlet or outlet openings 18 on the one hand and the water outlet opening 30 on the other side, a water passage 32 extends through the housing, whereby the proximity sensor 26 thus detects, for example, a hand approaching the water outlet opening 30.

In der "Normalfunktion" wird bei der Sanitärarmatur 10 der Zeichnung der Wasserdurchlauf durch das Gehäuse 12 automatisch freigegeben, wenn der Näherungssensor 26 die Annäherung durch eine Hand erkennt. Der Wasserdurchlauf wird automatisch wieder beendet, wenn der Näherungssensor 26 im Bereich der Wasserauslauföffnung 30 keine Hand mehr erkennt.In the "normal function" of the sanitary fitting 10 of the drawing, the water passage through the housing 12 is automatically released when the proximity sensor 26 detects the approach by a hand. The water pass is automatically ended again when the proximity sensor 26 in the region of the water outlet opening 30 detects no hand.

Wird nun bei der Armatur 10 eine automatische Spülfunktion ausgelöst, so wird der Näherungssensor 26 erfindungsgemäß zur Überwachung dieser Spülfunktion und insbesondere dazu genutzt, um eine sich während der Spülfunktion annähernde Hand zu erkennen. In diesem Fall wird nämlich der Wasserdurchlauf automatisch beendet, womit Verletzungsgefahren durch einen Kontakt der Hand mit aus der Armatur 10 austretendem heißem Wasser verhindert werden. Damit braucht insbesondere die Spülfunktion für das thermische Desinfizieren der Armatur 10 nicht mehr durch die diese Spülfunktion auslösende Person überwacht zu werden, die sich demzufolge von der Armatur 10 entfernen kann, um bei beispielsweise in einem Nebenraum befindlichen automatischen Sanitärarmaturen die thermische Desinfektion zu initiieren.If now an automatic rinsing function is triggered in the fitting 10, the proximity sensor 26 is used according to the invention for monitoring this rinsing function and, in particular, for detecting a hand approaching during the rinsing function. In this case, namely, the water flow is automatically terminated, which injury hazards are prevented by contact of the hand with exiting the fitting 10 hot water. Thus, in particular, the rinsing function for the thermal disinfection of the fitting 10 no longer needs to be monitored by the person initiating this rinsing function person, which can therefore be removed from the valve 10 to initiate the thermal disinfection in, for example, in an adjoining room automatic sanitary fittings.

BEZUGSZEICHENLISTELIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1010
Sanitärarmatur, ArmaturSanitary fitting, fitting
1212
Gehäusecasing
1414
erstes Gehäuseteilfirst housing part
1616
zweites Gehäuseteilsecond housing part
1818
WasserzulauföffnungWater inlet opening
2020
WasserzulaufleitungWater supply line
2222
Wasserabsperrventilwater stop
2424
Auswerte- und SteuereinheitEvaluation and control unit
2626
NäherungssensorProximity sensor
2828
Wasserauslaufwater spout
3030
WasserauslauföffnungWater outlet opening
3232
WasserdurchlaufwegWasserdurchlaufweg

Claims (8)

  1. Automatic sanitary fitting with monitored flushing function, having
    - a housing (12) which has at least one water-inlet opening (18), to which a water-inlet line (20) is connectible, and a water-outlet opening (30), wherein a water-throughflow path (32) runs between the at least one water-inlet opening (18) and the water-outlet opening (30),
    - an automatically operable water shut-off valve (22) for selectively shutting off and opening the water-throughflow path (32) through the housing (12),
    - a proximity sensor (26) for detecting an object approaching the region below the water-outlet opening (30) and
    - an evaluation and control unit (24) connected to the proximity sensor (26) and to the water shut-off valve (22), which unit actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to open the water-throughflow path (32) on detection of an object located in the region of the water-outlet opening (30) and which actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to shut off the water-throughflow path (32) again on subsequent non-detection of the object and optionally after a fixed or adjustable period of time has elapsed,
    - the water shut-off valve (22) being actuatable by the evaluation and control unit (24) to open the water-throughflow path (32) for the purpose of flushing thereof and/or flushing of the water-inlet line (20) for the duration of an optionally adjustable water-throughflow period,
    characterised in that
    - while the water-throughflow path (32) is open for the purpose of flushing thereof and/or flushing of the water-inlet line (20), the evaluation and control unit (24) actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to shut off the water-throughflow path (32) when, during the water-throughflow period, the proximity sensor (26) detects an object in the region below the water-outlet opening (30) of the housing (12), the detection range of the proximity sensor (26) being alterable by the evaluation and control unit (24), and the detection range of the proximity sensor (26) is greater during the flushing than for the automatic opening of the water-throughflow path (32) when the proximity sensor (26) detects the approach of an object while the water-throughflow path (32) is shut off.
  2. Automatic sanitary fitting according to claim 1, characterised in that the flushing is carried out for the purpose of replacing stagnant water or for the purpose of thermal disinfection.
  3. Automatic sanitary fitting according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the housing (12) has a manually or automatically adjustable mixer valve.
  4. Automatic sanitary fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the water-outlet opening (30) is arranged on a water outlet (28) of the housing (12), which water outlet is pivotable, and the proximity sensor (26) is arranged on the housing (12) so as to pivot with the water outlet (28).
  5. Automatic sanitary fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the proximity sensor (26) responds to manual covering occurring especially for the duration of a presettable period of time or to signals coming from a remote controller, and the evaluation and control unit (24) then actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to open the water-throughflow path (32) for the purpose of flushing the housing (12) and/or flushing the water-inlet line (20).
  6. Automatic sanitary fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that during the water-throughflow that takes place for the purpose of flushing the housing (12) and/or flushing the water-inlet line (20) the evaluation and control unit (24) actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to shut off the water-throughflow path (32) for the duration of the detection of an object in the region of the water-outlet opening (30) with interruption of the water-throughflow period, and the evaluation and control unit (24) actuates the water shut-off valve (22) to open the water-throughflow path (32) again on subsequent non-detection of the object in the region of the water-outlet opening (30) and optionally after a fixed or adjustable period of time has elapsed.
  7. Automatic sanitary fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the proximity sensor (26) is arranged in or on the housing (12).
  8. Automatic sanitary fitting according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the automatic sanitary fitting is a washbasin fitting or a shower fitting.
EP11009352.3A 2010-12-01 2011-11-25 Automatic sanitary armature with monitored cleaning function Active EP2460942B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102010052908A DE102010052908A1 (en) 2010-12-01 2010-12-01 Automatic sanitary appliance with monitored flushing function

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EP2460942A2 EP2460942A2 (en) 2012-06-06
EP2460942A3 EP2460942A3 (en) 2014-04-30
EP2460942B1 true EP2460942B1 (en) 2017-10-11

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US11560702B2 (en) 2012-11-02 2023-01-24 Kohler Co. Touchless flushing systems and methods

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102016108045A1 (en) * 2016-04-29 2017-11-02 A. u. K. Müller GmbH & Co. KG Armaturauslass and fitting
DE102021207858A1 (en) * 2021-07-22 2023-01-26 BSH Hausgeräte GmbH Sanitary fitting with an electric valve arrangement, a control unit and an operating device, and method for controlling a water output in a sanitary fitting

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JPS61218881A (en) * 1985-03-25 1986-09-29 Matsushita Electric Works Ltd Automatic faucet device
DE3838046A1 (en) 1988-11-09 1990-05-10 Butzke Werke Aqua Method for thermal disinfection
DE19501014A1 (en) * 1995-01-14 1996-07-18 Grohe Armaturen Friedrich Automatic shower control
AT10563U1 (en) * 2007-12-20 2009-06-15 Herbert Wimberger METHOD FOR THE THERMAL DISINFECTION AND INSTRUMENTS FOR CARRYING OUT THESE METHODS

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11560702B2 (en) 2012-11-02 2023-01-24 Kohler Co. Touchless flushing systems and methods

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EP2460942A2 (en) 2012-06-06
EP2460942A3 (en) 2014-04-30
DE102010052908A1 (en) 2012-06-06
DK2460942T3 (en) 2018-01-15

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