EP3265618B1 - Hybrid fitting with water jet detection - Google Patents
Hybrid fitting with water jet detection Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3265618B1 EP3265618B1 EP16713730.6A EP16713730A EP3265618B1 EP 3265618 B1 EP3265618 B1 EP 3265618B1 EP 16713730 A EP16713730 A EP 16713730A EP 3265618 B1 EP3265618 B1 EP 3265618B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- water jet
- sensor
- sanitary fitting
- sensor arrangement
- detected
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims description 169
- 238000001514 detection method Methods 0.000 title claims description 53
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 25
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 claims description 19
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000011156 evaluation Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 3
- GNFTZDOKVXKIBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 3-(2-methoxyethoxy)benzohydrazide Chemical compound COCCOC1=CC=CC(C(=O)NN)=C1 GNFTZDOKVXKIBK-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000005259 measurement Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001960 triggered effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- FGUUSXIOTUKUDN-IBGZPJMESA-N C1(=CC=CC=C1)N1C2=C(NC([C@H](C1)NC=1OC(=NN=1)C1=CC=CC=C1)=O)C=CC=C2 Chemical compound C1(=CC=CC=C1)N1C2=C(NC([C@H](C1)NC=1OC(=NN=1)C1=CC=CC=C1)=O)C=CC=C2 FGUUSXIOTUKUDN-IBGZPJMESA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000004458 analytical method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012512 characterization method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- KEUKAQNPUBYCIC-UHFFFAOYSA-N ethaneperoxoic acid;hydrogen peroxide Chemical compound OO.CC(=O)OO KEUKAQNPUBYCIC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000007689 inspection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000011159 matrix material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009428 plumbing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005855 radiation Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- E03C1/05—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
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a method for operating a sanitary fitting and a sanitary fitting with at least one manual actuator and a sensor arrangement.
- Sanitary fittings are in particular thermostatic mixer fittings that are designed as washbasin fittings, shower fittings or bathtub fittings.
- the sanitary fittings regularly have a hot water inlet for hot water and a cold water inlet for cold water.
- the hot water and the cold water in the sanitary fitting are mixed by means of a controller in a predeterminable mixing ratio to form mixed water.
- hybrid fittings consist of a single-lever mixer and an infrared fitting. Both types of fittings can be used independently of each other.
- the mixed water flow and / or the mixed water temperature is set mechanically via the single-lever mixer depending on the lever position. Regardless of this, a preset water flow rate and a preset water temperature can be triggered without contact using the infrared fitting.
- the infrared fitting In order to be able to use such a combination of a single-lever mixer with an infrared fitting, the infrared fitting must receive information on whether a mechanical or manual setting has been made using the setting lever. For this it is known mechanically record the lever position of the control lever using additional measuring components.
- Such an additional measuring component can, for. B. in the form of a switch, a displacement sensor, an angle encoder or a measuring strip. This measuring component interacts directly with the control lever.
- known hybrid fittings are generally expensive and the use of standard components, in particular standard single-lever mixers, control levers and / or standard valves, is not possible.
- the additional mechanical measuring components contribute to increased wear of the known hybrid fittings.
- the present invention is based on the object of at least partially solving the problems described with reference to the prior art.
- a sanitary fitting is to be specified which can be manufactured inexpensively, allows the use of standard components and has little wear.
- a method for operating a sanitary fitting is to be specified, which is inexpensive to manufacture, enables the use of standard components and has low wear.
- the present invention is based on the idea of using the sensor that is already present in a hybrid fitting in order to obtain information on whether the hybrid fitting has been set manually by means of an adjusting lever or whether a predefined water jet is set using a sensor should.
- the invention makes it possible in an advantageous manner that additional mechanical measuring components are not required, which would otherwise be required to detect the actuating position of the actuating lever. Therefore, a more economical production of a hybrid fitting is made possible, which can be formed with standard components and also has less wear due to saved additional mechanical measuring components.
- the sanitary fitting considered here can also be referred to as a hybrid fitting.
- the sanitary fitting is in particular a thermostatic mixer fitting that can be used as a wash basin fitting, shower fitting or bathtub fitting, the thermostatic mixer fitting here being combined with a sensor-controlled fitting.
- the sanitary fitting generally has at least one outlet, a water jet being able to be emitted through the outlet.
- the sanitary fitting has at least one manual actuator.
- the actuator can be formed in the manner of an actuating lever or mixing lever. However, this is not mandatory because the actuator can also be formed by means of a rotatable valve closure, a rotary knob or the like. If the actuator is designed in the manner of an (individual) adjusting lever, a water jet quantity or a water jet flow rate can be predeterminable as a function of a first adjusting angle of the adjusting lever. Here, a water jet temperature can be set as a function of a second setting angle of the setting lever. The first setting angle can be set or changed by means of a tilting movement and the second setting angle by means of a rotary movement. Adjustment by means of the actuator is referred to here as manual adjustment.
- the sanitary fitting has a sensor arrangement.
- the sensor arrangement is arranged in particular in an area of the sanitary fitting below the actuator.
- An arrangement of the sensor arrangement is alternatively or cumulatively possible in an area next to the actuator and / or above the actuator.
- the sensor arrangement preferably has at least at least one optical sensor, at least one acoustic sensor, in particular an ultrasonic sensor, or the like.
- An (optical) sensor converts (optical) information, especially light, into electronically usable signals.
- An optical sensor here is in particular an infrared sensor, a camera, an image sensor, a light barrier or the like.
- the optical sensor can in particular detect visible light and / or infrared radiation and / or ultraviolet light.
- the (optical) sensor preferably has a (light) transmitter and a (light) receiver.
- the optical sensor is preferably a line sensor, particularly preferably with a resolution of 128 ⁇ 1 pixels.
- the optical sensor can be formed in the manner of a matrix of individual diodes, this preferably having a resolution of 300 ⁇ 300 pixels, more preferably of 300 ⁇ 200 pixels and particularly preferably of 128x128 pixels.
- the sensor arrangement further preferably has at least one control unit. Such a control unit can be implemented in the form of a microcontroller or the like.
- a sensor-controlled setting is understood here to mean, in particular, a setting by means of the sensor arrangement using at least one sensor signal. Due to the sensor-controlled setting, the sanitary fitting emits a water jet with a predefined amount of water or with a predefined water jet flow rate and a specified water jet temperature. Contactless operation of the sanitary fitting can take place by means of the sensor arrangement.
- the sanitary fitting can have a water circuit or several water circuits.
- the sanitary fitting preferably has a manual water circuit and a sensor-controlled water circuit.
- the water cycles can be used independently here.
- At least the sensor-controlled water circuit can be opened or closed by means of a solenoid valve.
- the solenoid valve can receive a signal from the sensor arrangement.
- the water circuits can be opened or closed as a function of or independently of one another by means of at least one magnetic valve, at least one electrical valve and / or at least one mechanical valve.
- the sensor arrangement monitors an external detection area.
- the external detection area relates here in particular to an area below an outlet of the sanitary fitting.
- the external detection area is an area outside a housing of the sanitary fitting, which lies in a measuring area of the sensor arrangement.
- the measuring range of the sensor arrangement can extend to an area next to the outlet and / or above the outlet.
- the detection area has a detection area length and a detection area width.
- the detection area also has a detection area depth.
- a length is understood to be a spread in the longitudinal direction and a width is to be understood as a spread across the direction Understood longitudinal direction.
- the depth is to be understood as a spread across the length and across the width.
- the external detection area can thus also be designed as a (three-dimensional) space in front of and / or around the sanitary fitting, which is located in the measuring area of the sensor arrangement.
- the longitudinal direction here is related to a vertically extending axis.
- the longitudinal direction is also in the Fig. 1 to recognize.
- the sensor arrangement is set up to detect the presence of an object in the detection area. If the sensor arrangement comprises at least one transmitter and at least one receiver, the presence of an object can be detected in that a signal emitted by the transmitter, in particular light or sound, is reflected by the object and is detected by the receiver. An object distance between the sensor arrangement and the object can therefore be measured by means of a transit time measurement or the like.
- the sensor arrangement can also be set up to measure or recognize an object width.
- a line sensor can be aligned horizontally or several sensors of the sensor arrangement can be arranged horizontally next to one another. Edge areas next to a water jet can also be detected here.
- the sensor arrangement can be set up to evaluate an object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object.
- the reference to the "first recognized" object is intended to express that a decision on the type of object should be made within a (selected short) period after triggering - i.e. when the water jet is actually first mechanically activated and then If the hands are washed in a water jet, only the "first recognized" object (here the water jet) should be relevant.
- the sensor arrangement can have a control unit. However, it is not essential that the control unit is integrated into the sensor arrangement. Rather, the control unit can also be provided at a different point on the sanitary fitting and can be set up to evaluate the object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object. When evaluating the recognized object, it is particularly important here which object was recognized first.
- an “other object” is understood here to mean an object that is not a water jet and, in particular, does not have the external geometry of a water jet.
- the “other object” can be, for example, a toothbrush, mug, hand, arm, head of a person, or the like.
- a water jet in the detection area is detected in particular when an object distance determined by means of the sensor arrangement or an object width determined by means of the sensor arrangement lies in a predefined water jet region. Another object in the detection area is detected in particular when an object distance determined by means of the sensor arrangement or an object width determined by means of the sensor arrangement lies outside a predefined water jet area.
- the predefined water jet area is defined here between a minimum water jet distance and a maximum water jet distance and / or between a minimum water jet width and a maximum water jet width.
- the water jet flows out of the sanitary fitting in one direction of flow.
- the water jet distance viewed in the longitudinal direction, can vary depending on the orientation of the flow direction in relation to the orientation of the sensor arrangement.
- the sensor arrangement is preferably set up to take into account a different alignment to the flow direction.
- a sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature is opened here. If a water jet was first detected in the detection area, the sensor-controlled setting is prevented. In particular, a sensor-controlled water cycle remains closed. As long as the sensor-controlled setting is prevented, there is no sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature. As a rule, a water jet is first recognized when the sanitary fitting is operated manually by means of the actuator. In this case, sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet temperature and the specified water jet flow rate is undesirable.
- the predetermined amount of water jet and the predetermined water jet temperature be interrupted when the other object is no longer recognized in the detection area and it was previously evaluated in step c) that the other object was recognized first.
- This advantageously means that a sensor-controlled setting is ended again when the other object is no longer in the detection area.
- the sensor-controlled setting and thus the delivery of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature to be ended after a specified period of time has elapsed.
- a corresponding time span can be, for example, 30 seconds or preferably 20 seconds.
- the other object is at least a hand or an object which, viewed in the transverse direction, has a larger spread than the water jet.
- the spread of the water jet in the transverse direction affects the water jet diameter.
- the transverse direction here relates to a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal direction is oriented. The description of the other object given here is advantageous if the sensor arrangement is set up to measure an object width.
- control unit can be integrated into the sensor arrangement.
- the control unit is in particular integrated into the sanitary fitting in such a way that it can initiate and / or monitor the explained method.
- the described mode of operation of the sanitary fitting is achieved in particular in that the sensor arrangement in the external detection area carries out an object check and an object evaluation.
- the mode of operation described is also possible in particular due to independent valve circuits of the sanitary fitting.
- the object inspection and object assessment described here is carried out in such a way that when another object, in particular a hand, is first detected in the detection area, the sensor-controlled water circuit is opened, in particular by means of a solenoid valve. However, if a water jet, triggered by the manual actuator, is detected first and only then a hand is detected, the sensor-controlled water circuit remains closed. In this case, the water jet is only adjusted using the manual actuator.
- the described mode of operation of the sanitary fitting also offers a high level of functional reliability in an advantageous manner. It is made possible that even a minimal emerging water jet is detected, which could not yet be detected by means of known mechanical measuring components. This is made possible due to the optical recognition of the invention.
- the invention also relates to a sanitary fitting which is set up to deliver a jet of water.
- the sanitary fitting has at least one manual actuator for the manual setting of at least one water jet flow rate or a water jet temperature and a sensor arrangement which enables a sensor-controlled setting of a predetermined water jet flow rate and a predetermined water jet temperature is established.
- the sensor arrangement is set up to detect the presence of an object in an external detection area.
- a control unit is provided which is set up to evaluate an object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object.
- control unit be integrated into the sensor arrangement.
- control unit be set up to carry out the method described above.
- the sensor arrangement comprises at least one optical or acoustic sensor which is arranged in alignment with the water jet and wherein the detection area has a detection area width that is greater than a water jet diameter.
- the sensor arrangement is particularly advantageous if the sensor arrangement is set up to measure or recognize an object width.
- Such an arrangement also makes it possible to detect edge areas next to the water jet.
- At least one detection area length is greater than a sensor arrangement length or that a detection area width is greater than a sensor arrangement width.
- no mechanical sensor be provided for detecting an actuating deflection of the actuator.
- an additional mechanical measuring component or a mechanical sensor and the associated analysis of the state of the actuator for setting up the operation is dispensed with . If a mechanical sensor is dispensed with, the sanitary fitting can be significantly less worn.
- Fig. 1 shows a schematic and basic representation of the method for operating a sanitary fitting.
- the method begins here in step a) with the monitoring of an external detection area by means of the sensor arrangement. If an object is present in the detection area, then in step b) the detection of the presence of an object in the detection area by means of the sensor arrangement follows. This is followed in step c) by evaluating the first recognized object and distinguishing whether the first recognized object is a water jet or another object.
- the method can be carried out, for example, by means of a microcontroller.
- the micro control unit also has a storage unit here. State variables can be stored in the storage unit.
- an object state variable 17 is stored here.
- the object state variable 17 can assume three values or three states.
- the first state is referred to here as “water jet” and is then stored when it was determined in step c) that the first recognized object is a water jet.
- the second state of the object state variable 17 is referred to here as “another object” and is then stored when it was determined in step c) that the object recognized first is another object. If neither the first state nor the second state is recognized or no longer recognized, "zero" is stored here as the third state, for example.
- Step c) is followed here by an if-then decision. If the stored object state variable 17 is the "other object" state, then in step d) there is a sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature. In this case, the method is continued in a sensor-controlled circuit 16. However, if the state stored in step c) is “water jet”, the method is continued in a manual cycle 15. By way of example, step d) is followed by step e) in the sensor-controlled circuit 16, in which further monitoring, recognition and evaluation is carried out. The object state variable 17 is stored here again. Step e) is again followed by an if-then decision.
- the sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature continues. However, if the "water jet” state has been stored, the sensor-controlled setting is interrupted in step f). After the interruption, the method starts again at step a).
- Fig. 1 it can also be seen that the method continues to operate in the manual circuit 15 if the object state variable 17 has the "water jet" state in the first if-then decision.
- a step g) is followed, for example, by monitoring, recognition and evaluation, with the object state variable 17 also being stored here.
- An if-then decision also follows here, step g) being carried out further if the object state variable 17 has the state “other object” or “water jet”. If, however, the object state variable 17 has the state “zero”, the method begins again at step a).
- a first manual setting of a water jet flow rate 18 of a sanitary fitting 1 is shown.
- the sanitary fitting 1 has an actuator 2 and a sensor arrangement 3.
- the sensor arrangement 3 is designed, for example, with an optical sensor 13.
- the sanitary fitting 1 has an outlet 24 from which the water jet 4 emerges.
- the actuator 2 is formed here in the manner of an adjusting lever.
- the actuator 2 is deflected upwards in the manner of a tilting movement and is in a minimally open position. In this minimum open position, a minimum first adjustment angle 20 can be seen.
- the sanitary fitting 1 thus emits a minimal water jet 4 with a minimal water jet throughflow 18.
- the water jet 4 here has a flow direction 19. Even this minimal water jet throughflow 18 or the minimal water jet 4 is detected by means of the sensor arrangement 3.
- a longitudinal direction 21 is also entered, a transverse direction here points into the plane of the drawing. Viewed in the transverse direction, the sensor arrangement 3 is arranged in alignment with the water jet 4, so that it can detect the water jet 4.
- a second manual setting of a water jet flow rate 18 of a sanitary fitting 1 is shown.
- the sanitary fitting 1 has an actuator 2 and a sensor arrangement 3.
- the sensor arrangement 3 has a sensor arrangement length 10.
- the sanitary fitting 1 emits a maximum water jet 4 with a maximum water jet flow rate 18.
- the actuator 2 is in a maximum open position.
- the maximum open position is shown by means of the maximum first adjustment angle 20.
- the sensor arrangement 3 is set up in such a way that it measures or determines or records an object distance 22.
- the object distance 22 lies here in a predetermined water jet area which is assigned to the presence of a water jet 4. If the sensor arrangement 3 measures an object distance 22 in this predefined water jet area, the presence of a water jet 4 is detected. In Fig. 3 the object distance 22 is equal to a water jet distance 23.
- a sensor-controlled setting of a predetermined water jet flow rate 18 of a sanitary fitting 1 is shown. It can be seen that the actuator 2 is in a closed position. Another object 6, namely a hand 8, is located in a detection area 5 of the sensor arrangement 3.
- the sensor arrangement 3 is formed here with an optical sensor 13.
- a control unit 7 is integrated into the sensor arrangement 3, for example.
- the other object 6 or the hand 8 was first recognized by means of the sensor arrangement 3.
- the other object 6 was recognized in that a measured object distance 22 is smaller than a minimum water jet distance 23 of a predefined water jet area.
- the measured object distance 22 is therefore outside the predefined water jet area. Because another object 6 was recognized here first, the sensor-controlled setting takes place predetermined water jet flow rate 18.
- the water jet 4 here also has a predetermined water jet temperature, which is not shown here.
- the optical sensor 13 of the sensor arrangement 3 is aligned here in the longitudinal direction 21 or vertically and viewed in the transverse direction in alignment with the water jet 4.
- the sensor arrangement 3 thus monitors a detection area length 9 of the detection area 5.
- a sensor arrangement 3 is shown, which is formed with an optical sensor 13. The view here is directed from above onto a sensor arrangement 3.
- a transverse direction 25 is entered for orientation, with a longitudinal direction protruding into the plane of the drawing here. Accordingly, the sensor arrangement 3 is aligned in the transverse direction 25 or horizontally.
- the sensor arrangement 3 or the optical sensor 13 thus detects a detection area width 11 of a detection area 5.
- there is no object which is why no object is detected by the sensor arrangement 3 here.
- a water jet 4 with a water jet diameter 14 in the detection area 5 can be seen in cross section. Edge areas next to the water jet 4 can also be detected by means of the horizontally aligned sensor arrangement 3.
- the sensor arrangement 3 here recognizes the presence of an object, namely the presence of the water jet 4. It is recognized that it is a water jet 4 because a measured object distance 22 lies in a predefined water jet range.
- the measured object distance 22 corresponds here to a water jet distance 23.
- an object width of 26 can also be measured.
- the sensor arrangement 3 is formed, for example, with a plurality of optical sensors 13 arranged next to one another in the transverse direction.
- a water jet 4 is also recognized here because the measured object width 26 lies in a predefined water jet area.
- the measured object width 26 corresponds to the water jet diameter 14 here.
- a method for operating a sanitary fitting and a sanitary fitting is thus shown, in which case inexpensive production, the use of standard components and low wear are made possible. In addition, a high level of functional reliability is guaranteed since a minimal water jet can already be detected by means of the sensor arrangement.
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Description
Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur und eine Sanitärarmatur mit mindestens einem manuellen Stellglied und einer Sensoranordnung.The present invention relates to a method for operating a sanitary fitting and a sanitary fitting with at least one manual actuator and a sensor arrangement.
Bei Sanitärarmaturen handelt es sich insbesondere um Thermostatmischarmaturen, die als Waschbeckenarmaturen, Duscharmaturen oder Badewannenarmaturen ausgeführt sind. Hierzu weisen die Sanitärarmaturen regelmäßig einen Warmwasserzulauf für Warmwasser und einen Kaltwasserzulauf für Kaltwasser auf. Hierbei werden das Warmwasser und das Kaltwasser in der Sanitärarmatur mittels eines Reglers in einem vorgebbaren Mischverhältnis zu einem Mischwasser gemischt.Sanitary fittings are in particular thermostatic mixer fittings that are designed as washbasin fittings, shower fittings or bathtub fittings. For this purpose, the sanitary fittings regularly have a hot water inlet for hot water and a cold water inlet for cold water. Here, the hot water and the cold water in the sanitary fitting are mixed by means of a controller in a predeterminable mixing ratio to form mixed water.
Bei reinen Infrarotarmaturen ist das Erkennen, ob sich eine Hand oder ein Wasserstrahl im Messfeld eines IR-Sensors befindet, bekannt und beispielhaft in der Druckschrift
Aus der
Um eine solche Kombination eines Einhebelmischers mit einer Infrarotarmatur sinnvoll nutzen zu können, muss die Infrarotarmatur eine Information darüber erhalten, ob eine mechanische bzw. manuelle Einstellung mittels des Stellhebels vorgenommen wurde. Hierzu ist es bekannt, die Hebelstellung des Stellhebels mittels zusätzlicher Messkomponenten mechanisch zu erfassen. Eine solche zusätzliche Messkomponente kann z. B. in der Art eines Schalters, eines Wegaufnehmers, eines Winkelgebers oder eines Messstreifens ausgeführt sein. Diese Messkomponente wirkt unmittelbar mit dem Stellhebel zusammen.In order to be able to use such a combination of a single-lever mixer with an infrared fitting, the infrared fitting must receive information on whether a mechanical or manual setting has been made using the setting lever. For this it is known mechanically record the lever position of the control lever using additional measuring components. Such an additional measuring component can, for. B. in the form of a switch, a displacement sensor, an angle encoder or a measuring strip. This measuring component interacts directly with the control lever.
Aufgrund der zusätzlichen Messkomponenten sind bekannte Hybrid-Armaturen in der Regel teuer und eine Verwendung von Standardkomponenten, insbesondere von Standard-Einhebelmischern, Stellhebeln und/oder Standardventilen, ist nicht möglich. Zudem tragen die zusätzlichen mechanischen Messkomponenten zu einem erhöhten Verschleiß der bekannten Hybrid-Armaturen bei.Because of the additional measuring components, known hybrid fittings are generally expensive and the use of standard components, in particular standard single-lever mixers, control levers and / or standard valves, is not possible. In addition, the additional mechanical measuring components contribute to increased wear of the known hybrid fittings.
Hiervon ausgehend liegt der vorliegenden Erfindung die Aufgabe zugrunde, die mit Bezug auf den Stand der Technik geschilderten Probleme zumindest teilweise zu lösen. Insbesondere soll eine Sanitärarmatur angegeben werden, die günstig herstellbar ist, eine Verwendung von Standardkomponenten ermöglicht und einen geringen Verschleiß aufweist. Zudem soll insbesondere ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur angegeben werden, die günstig herstellbar ist, eine Verwendung von Standardkomponenten ermöglicht und einen geringen Verschleiß aufweist.Proceeding from this, the present invention is based on the object of at least partially solving the problems described with reference to the prior art. In particular, a sanitary fitting is to be specified which can be manufactured inexpensively, allows the use of standard components and has little wear. In addition, a method for operating a sanitary fitting is to be specified, which is inexpensive to manufacture, enables the use of standard components and has low wear.
Diese Aufgaben werden gelöst mit einem Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur und einer Sanitärarmatur mit den Merkmalen der unabhängigen Patentansprüche. Weitere vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den abhängigen Patentansprüchen angegeben. Es ist darauf hingewiesen, dass die in den Patentansprüchen einzeln aufgeführten Merkmale in beliebiger, technologisch sinnvoller Weise miteinander kombiniert werden können und weitere Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung definieren. Darüber hinaus werden die in den Patentansprüchen angegebenen Merkmale in der Beschreibung näher präzisiert und erläutert, wobei weitere bevorzugte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung dargestellt werden.These objects are achieved with a method for operating a sanitary fitting and a sanitary fitting with the features of the independent claims. Further advantageous refinements of the invention are specified in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the features listed individually in the patent claims can be combined with one another in any desired, technologically meaningful manner and define further embodiments of the invention. In addition, the features specified in the patent claims are specified and explained in greater detail in the description, with further preferred embodiments of the invention being presented.
Die Erfindung gibt ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur an. Diese Sanitärarmatur ist zur Abgabe eines Wasserstrahls eingerichtet. Die Sanitärarmatur hat mindestens ein manuelles Stellglied und eine Sensoranordnung. Das mindestens eine manuelle Stellglied ist zur manuellen Einstellung zumindest eines Wasserstrahldurchflusses oder einer Wasserstrahltemperatur eingerichtet. Die Sensoranordnung ist zu einer sensorgesteuerten Einstellung eines vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und einer vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur eingerichtet. Das Verfahren umfasst zumindest die folgenden Schritte:
- a) Überwachen eines externen Erfassungsbereichs mittels der Sensoranordnung,
- b) Erkennen des Vorhandenseins eines Objekts in dem Erfassungsbereich mittels der Sensoranordnung,
- c) Auswerten des zuerst erkannten Objekts und Unterscheiden, ob das zuerst erkannte Objekt ein Wasserstahl oder ein anderes Objekt ist,
- d) sensorgesteuertes Einstellen des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur, wenn im Erfassungsbereich zuerst das andere Objekt erkannt wurde, wobei die sensorgesteuerte Einstellung unterbunden wird, wenn in dem Erfassungsbereich zuerst ein Wasserstrahl und ggf. erst anschließend das andere Objekt erkannt wurde.
- a) Monitoring an external detection area by means of the sensor arrangement,
- b) Detecting the presence of an object in the detection area by means of the sensor arrangement,
- c) Evaluating the first recognized object and differentiating whether the first recognized object is a water jet or another object,
- d) sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature if the other object was recognized first in the detection area, whereby the sensor-controlled setting is suppressed if a water jet is detected in the detection area first and then the other object, if applicable.
Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Idee zugrunde, den bei einer Hybrid-Armatur bereits vorhandenen Sensor zu nutzen, um eine Information darüber zu erhalten, ob eine manuelle Einstellung der Hybrid-Armatur mittels eines Stellhebels vorgenommen wurde, oder ob ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen eines vordefinierten Wasserstrahls erfolgen soll. Die Erfindung ermöglicht es in vorteilhafter Weise, dass zusätzliche mechanische Messkomponenten nicht benötigt werden, die sonst zur Erfassung der Stellposition des Stellhebels erforderlich wären. Daher ist eine günstigere Herstellung einer Hybrid-Armatur ermöglicht, die mit Standardkomponenten gebildet sein kann und aufgrund eingesparter zusätzlicher mechanischer Messkomponenten auch einen geringeren Verschleiß aufweist.The present invention is based on the idea of using the sensor that is already present in a hybrid fitting in order to obtain information on whether the hybrid fitting has been set manually by means of an adjusting lever or whether a predefined water jet is set using a sensor should. The invention makes it possible in an advantageous manner that additional mechanical measuring components are not required, which would otherwise be required to detect the actuating position of the actuating lever. Therefore, a more economical production of a hybrid fitting is made possible, which can be formed with standard components and also has less wear due to saved additional mechanical measuring components.
Die hier betrachtete Sanitärarmatur kann auch als Hybrid-Armatur bezeichnet werden. Bei der Sanitärarmatur handelt es sich insbesondere um eine Thermostatmischarmatur, die als Waschbeckenarmatur, Duscharmatur oder Badewannenarmatur einsetzbar ist, wobei die Thermostatmischarmatur hier mit einer sensorgesteuerten Armatur kombiniert ist. Die Sanitärarmatur weist in der Regel mindestens einen Auslass auf, wobei durch den Auslass ein Wasserstrahl abgegeben werden kann.The sanitary fitting considered here can also be referred to as a hybrid fitting. The sanitary fitting is in particular a thermostatic mixer fitting that can be used as a wash basin fitting, shower fitting or bathtub fitting, the thermostatic mixer fitting here being combined with a sensor-controlled fitting. The sanitary fitting generally has at least one outlet, a water jet being able to be emitted through the outlet.
Die Sanitärarmatur hat mindestens ein manuelles Stellglied. Das Stellglied kann in der Art eines Stellhebels bzw. Mischhebels gebildet sein. Dies ist jedoch nicht zwingend, weil das Stellglied auch mittels eines drehbaren Ventilverschlusses, eines Drehknopfes oder dergleichen gebildet sein kann. Wenn das Stellglied in der Art eines (einzelnen) Stellhebels gebildet ist, so kann eine Wasserstrahlmenge bzw. ein Wasserstrahldurchfluss in Abhängigkeit eines ersten Stellwinkels des Stellhebels vorgebbar sein. Hierbei kann eine Wasserstrahltemperatur in Abhängigkeit eines zweiten Stellwinkels des Stellhebels einstellbar sein. Der erste Stellwinkel kann mittels einer Kippbewegung und der zweite Stellwinkel mittels einer Drehbewegung eingestellt bzw. verändert werden. Ein Einstellen mittels des Stellglieds wird hier als manuelles Einstellen bezeichnet.The sanitary fitting has at least one manual actuator. The actuator can be formed in the manner of an actuating lever or mixing lever. However, this is not mandatory because the actuator can also be formed by means of a rotatable valve closure, a rotary knob or the like. If the actuator is designed in the manner of an (individual) adjusting lever, a water jet quantity or a water jet flow rate can be predeterminable as a function of a first adjusting angle of the adjusting lever. Here, a water jet temperature can be set as a function of a second setting angle of the setting lever. The first setting angle can be set or changed by means of a tilting movement and the second setting angle by means of a rotary movement. Adjustment by means of the actuator is referred to here as manual adjustment.
Zudem hat die Sanitärarmatur eine Sensoranordnung. Die Sensoranordnung ist insbesondere in einem Bereich der Sanitärarmatur unterhalb des Stellglieds angeordnet. Dadurch kann mittels der Sensoranordnung ein Objekt erkannt werden, das sich unterhalb eines Auslasses der Sanitärarmatur befindet. Eine Anordnung der Sensoranordnung ist alternativ oder kumulativ in einem Bereich neben dem Stellglied und/oder oberhalb des Stellglieds möglich. Bevorzugt hat die Sensoranordnung zumindest mindestens einen optischen Sensor, mindestens einen akustischen Sensor, insbesondere einen Ultraschall-Sensor, oder dergleichen. Ein (optischer) Sensor wandelt (optische) Informationen, insbesondere Licht, in elektronisch verwertbare Signale. Ein optischer Sensor ist hier insbesondere ein Infrarotsensor, eine Kamera, ein Bildsensor, eine Lichtschranke oder dergleichen. Der optische Sensor kann insbesondere sichtbares Licht und/oder Infrarotstrahlung und/oder ultraviolettes Licht erfassen. Bevorzugt hat der (optische) Sensor einen (Licht-) Sender und einen (Licht-) Empfänger. Bevorzugt ist der optische Sensor ein Zeilensensor, besonders bevorzugt mit einer Auflösung von 128x1 Pixel. Der optische Sensor kann in der Art einer Matrix von einzelnen Dioden gebildet sein, wobei dieser bevorzugt eine Auflösung von 300x300 Pixeln, weiter bevorzugt von 300x200 Pixeln und besonders bevorzugt von 128x128 Pixeln hat. Weiter bevorzugt hat die Sensoranordnung mindestens eine Steuereinheit. Eine solche Steuereinheit kann in der Form einer Mikrokontrolleinheit oder dergleichen ausgeführt sein.In addition, the sanitary fitting has a sensor arrangement. The sensor arrangement is arranged in particular in an area of the sanitary fitting below the actuator. As a result, an object that is located below an outlet of the sanitary fitting can be detected by means of the sensor arrangement. An arrangement of the sensor arrangement is alternatively or cumulatively possible in an area next to the actuator and / or above the actuator. The sensor arrangement preferably has at least at least one optical sensor, at least one acoustic sensor, in particular an ultrasonic sensor, or the like. An (optical) sensor converts (optical) information, especially light, into electronically usable signals. An optical sensor here is in particular an infrared sensor, a camera, an image sensor, a light barrier or the like. The optical sensor can in particular detect visible light and / or infrared radiation and / or ultraviolet light. The (optical) sensor preferably has a (light) transmitter and a (light) receiver. The optical sensor is preferably a line sensor, particularly preferably with a resolution of 128 × 1 pixels. The optical sensor can be formed in the manner of a matrix of individual diodes, this preferably having a resolution of 300 × 300 pixels, more preferably of 300 × 200 pixels and particularly preferably of 128x128 pixels. The sensor arrangement further preferably has at least one control unit. Such a control unit can be implemented in the form of a microcontroller or the like.
Unter einer sensorgesteuerten Einstellung ist hier insbesondere eine Einstellung mittels der Sensoranordnung durch mindestens ein Sensorsignal verstanden. Aufgrund der sensorgesteuerten Einstellung gibt die Sanitärarmatur einen Wasserstrahl mit vordefinierter Wassermenge bzw. mit vordefiniertem Wasserstrahldurchfluss und einer vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur ab. Mittels der Sensoranordnung kann ein berührungsloses Bedienen der Sanitärarmatur erfolgen.A sensor-controlled setting is understood here to mean, in particular, a setting by means of the sensor arrangement using at least one sensor signal. Due to the sensor-controlled setting, the sanitary fitting emits a water jet with a predefined amount of water or with a predefined water jet flow rate and a specified water jet temperature. Contactless operation of the sanitary fitting can take place by means of the sensor arrangement.
Die Sanitärarmatur kann einen Wasserkreislauf oder mehrere Wasserkreisläufe haben. Bevorzugt hat die Sanitärarmatur einen manuellen Wasserkreislauf und einen sensorgesteuerten Wasserkreislauf. Die Wasserkreisläufe können hier unabhängig voneinander genutzt werden. Zumindest der sensorgesteuerte Wasserkreislauf kann mittels eines Magnetventils geöffnet bzw. geschlossen werden. Hierzu kann das Magnetventil ein Signal der Sensoranordnung empfangen. Die Wasserkreisläufe können abhängig oder unabhängig voneinander mittels mindestens eines Magnetventils, mindestens eines elektrischen Ventils und/oder mindestens eines mechanischen Ventils geöffnet bzw. geschlossen werden.The sanitary fitting can have a water circuit or several water circuits. The sanitary fitting preferably has a manual water circuit and a sensor-controlled water circuit. The water cycles can be used independently here. At least the sensor-controlled water circuit can be opened or closed by means of a solenoid valve. For this purpose, the solenoid valve can receive a signal from the sensor arrangement. The water circuits can be opened or closed as a function of or independently of one another by means of at least one magnetic valve, at least one electrical valve and / or at least one mechanical valve.
Die Sensoranordnung überwacht einen externen Erfassungsbereich. Der externe Erfassungsbereich betrifft hier insbesondere einen Bereich unterhalb eines Auslasses der Sanitärarmatur. Der externe Erfassungsbereich, ist ein Bereich außerhalb eines Gehäuses der Sanitärarmatur, der in einem Messbereich der Sensoranordnung liegt. Der Messbereich der Sensoranordnung kann sich auf einen Bereich neben dem Auslass und/oder oberhalb des Auslasses erstrecken. Der Erfassungsbereich hat eine Erfassungsbereichslänge und eine Erfassungsbereichsbreite. Insbesondere hat der Erfassungsbereich auch eine Erfassungsbereichstiefe. Eine Länge ist als eine Ausbreitung in Längsrichtung verstanden und eine Breite ist als Ausbreitung quer zu der Längsrichtung verstanden. Die Tiefe ist als eine Ausbreitung quer zu der Länge und quer zu der Breite zu verstehen. Der externe Erfassungsbereich kann somit auch als (dreidimensionaler) Raum vor und/oder um die Sanitärarmatur herum ausgebildet sein, der in dem Messbereich der Sensoranordnung liegt. Die Längsrichtung ist hier auf eine vertikal verlaufende Achse bezogen. Die Längsrichtung ist zudem in der
Die Sensoranordnung ist dazu eingerichtet, das Vorhandensein eines Objekts in dem Erfassungsbereich zu erkennen. Wenn die Sensoranordnung mindestens einen Sender und mindestens einen Empfänger umfasst, so kann das Vorhandensein eines Objekts dadurch erkannt werden, dass ein mittels des Senders emittiertes Signal, insbesondere Licht oder Schall, von dem Objekt reflektiert wird und mittels des Empfängers erkannt wird. Mittels einer Laufzeitmessung oder dergleichen kann daher ein Objektabstand zwischen der Sensoranordnung und dem Objekt gemessen werden.The sensor arrangement is set up to detect the presence of an object in the detection area. If the sensor arrangement comprises at least one transmitter and at least one receiver, the presence of an object can be detected in that a signal emitted by the transmitter, in particular light or sound, is reflected by the object and is detected by the receiver. An object distance between the sensor arrangement and the object can therefore be measured by means of a transit time measurement or the like.
Die Sensoranordnung kann zusätzlich und/oder anstelle einer Abstandsmessung auch dazu eingerichtet sein, eine Objektbreite zu messen bzw. zu erkennen. Hierzu kann ein Zeilensensor horizontal ausgerichtet sein oder es können mehrere Sensoren der Sensoranordnung horizontal nebeneinander angeordnet sein. Hierbei können auch Randbereiche neben einem Wasserstrahl erfasst werden.In addition to and / or instead of a distance measurement, the sensor arrangement can also be set up to measure or recognize an object width. For this purpose, a line sensor can be aligned horizontally or several sensors of the sensor arrangement can be arranged horizontally next to one another. Edge areas next to a water jet can also be detected here.
Die Sensoranordnung kann dazu eingerichtet sein, ein zuerst erkanntes Objekt auszuwerten und zu unterscheiden, ob das zuerst erkannte Objekt ein Wasserstrahl oder ein anderes Objekt ist. Mit dem Hinweis auf das "zuerst erkannte" Objekt soll zum Ausdruck gebracht werden, dass eine Entscheidung über die Art des Objekts in einem (gewählt kurzen) Zeitraum nach der Auslösung erfolgen soll - wenn also tatsächlich zunächst mechanisch der Wasserstrahl in Gang gesetzt wird und anschließend die Hände im Wasserstrahl gewaschen werden, soll nur das "zuerst erkannte" Objekt (hier der Wasserstrahl) maßgeblich sein.The sensor arrangement can be set up to evaluate an object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object. The reference to the "first recognized" object is intended to express that a decision on the type of object should be made within a (selected short) period after triggering - i.e. when the water jet is actually first mechanically activated and then If the hands are washed in a water jet, only the "first recognized" object (here the water jet) should be relevant.
Die Sensoranordnung kann eine Steuereinheit haben. Es ist jedoch nicht zwingend, dass die Steuereinheit in die Sensoranordnung integriert ist. Vielmehr kann die Steuereinheit auch an einer anderen Stelle der Sanitärarmatur vorgesehen sein und zum Auswerten des zuerst erkannten Objekts und zum Unterscheiden, ob das zuerst erkannte Objekt ein Wasserstrahl oder ein anderes Objekt ist, eingerichtet sein. Bei der Auswertung des erkannten Objekts kommt es hier in besonderer Weise darauf an, welches Objekt zuerst erkannt wurde.The sensor arrangement can have a control unit. However, it is not essential that the control unit is integrated into the sensor arrangement. Rather, the control unit can also be provided at a different point on the sanitary fitting and can be set up to evaluate the object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object. When evaluating the recognized object, it is particularly important here which object was recognized first.
Unter einem "anderen Objekt" wird hier ein Gegenstand verstanden, das kein Wasserstrahl ist und insbesondere nicht die äußere Geometrie eines Wasserstrahls hat. Das "andere Objekt" kann zum Beispiel eine Zahnbürste, ein Becher, eine Hand, ein Arm, ein Kopf einer Person oder dergleichen sein.An "other object" is understood here to mean an object that is not a water jet and, in particular, does not have the external geometry of a water jet. The "other object" can be, for example, a toothbrush, mug, hand, arm, head of a person, or the like.
Ein Wasserstrahl in dem Erfassungsbereich wird insbesondere dann erkannt, wenn ein mittels der Sensoranordnung ermittelter Objektabstand bzw. eine mittels der Sensoranordnung ermittelte Objektbreite in einem vordefinierten Wasserstrahlbereich liegt. Ein anderes Objekt in dem Erfassungsbereich wird insbesondere dann erkannt, wenn ein mittels der Sensoranordnung ermittelte Objektabstand bzw. eine mittels der Sensoranordnung ermittelte Objektbreite außerhalb eines vordefinierten Wasserstrahlbereichs liegt. Der vordefinierte Wasserstrahlbereich ist hier zwischen einem minimalen Wasserstrahlabstand und einem maximalen Wasserstrahlabstand und/oder zwischen einer minimalen Wasserstrahlbreite und einer maximalen Wasserstrahlbreite definiert. Der Wasserstrahl strömt in einer Strömungsrichtung aus der Sanitärarmatur aus. Der Wasserstrahlabstand kann in Längsrichtung betrachtet je nach Ausrichtung der Strömungsrichtung, im Verhältnis zur Ausrichtung der Sensoranordnung, variieren. Die Sensoranordnung ist bevorzugt dazu eingerichtet, eine abweichende Ausrichtung zur Strömungsrichtung zu berücksichtigen.A water jet in the detection area is detected in particular when an object distance determined by means of the sensor arrangement or an object width determined by means of the sensor arrangement lies in a predefined water jet region. Another object in the detection area is detected in particular when an object distance determined by means of the sensor arrangement or an object width determined by means of the sensor arrangement lies outside a predefined water jet area. The predefined water jet area is defined here between a minimum water jet distance and a maximum water jet distance and / or between a minimum water jet width and a maximum water jet width. The water jet flows out of the sanitary fitting in one direction of flow. The water jet distance, viewed in the longitudinal direction, can vary depending on the orientation of the flow direction in relation to the orientation of the sensor arrangement. The sensor arrangement is preferably set up to take into account a different alignment to the flow direction.
Wenn im Erfassungsbereich zuerst das andere Objekt erkannt wurde, so erfolgt (zunächst bzw. nur) ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur. Hierbei wird insbesondere ein sensorgesteuerter Wasserkreislauf geöffnet. Wenn im Erfassungsbereich zuerst ein Wasserstrahl erkannt wurde, so wird die sensorgesteuerte Einstellung unterbunden. Hierbei bleibt insbesondere ein sensorgesteuerter Wasserkreislauf geschlossen. Solange die sensorgesteuerte Einstellung unterbunden ist, erfolgt kein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur. In der Regel wird dann zuerst ein Wasserstrahl erkannt, wenn die Sanitärarmatur mittels des Stellglieds manuell betätigt wird. In diesem Fall ist ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur und des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses unerwünscht.If the other object was first recognized in the detection area, then (initially or only) a sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature. In particular, a sensor-controlled water circuit is opened here. If a water jet was first detected in the detection area, the sensor-controlled setting is prevented. In particular, a sensor-controlled water cycle remains closed. As long as the sensor-controlled setting is prevented, there is no sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature. As a rule, a water jet is first recognized when the sanitary fitting is operated manually by means of the actuator. In this case, sensor-controlled setting of the specified water jet temperature and the specified water jet flow rate is undesirable.
Nach einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass die vorgegebene Wasserstrahlmenge und die vorgegebene Wasserstrahltemperatur unterbrochen werden, wenn das andere Objekt nicht mehr in dem Erfassungsbereich erkannt wird und zuvor in Schritt c) ausgewertet wurde, dass zuerst das andere Objekt erkannt wurde. Hierdurch wird in vorteilhafter Weise erreicht, dass ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen wieder beendet wird, wenn das andere Objekt sich nicht mehr im Erfassungsbereich befindet. Somit ist insbesondere ein möglichst wasserschonender Betrieb der Sanitärarmatur möglich. Es ist jedoch auch möglich, dass das sensorgesteuerte Einstellen und damit die Abgabe des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur nach Ablauf einer vorzugebenden Zeitspanne beendet werden. Eine entsprechende Zeitspanne kann bspw. 30 Sekunden oder bevorzugt 20 Sekunden betragen.According to an advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the predetermined amount of water jet and the predetermined water jet temperature be interrupted when the other object is no longer recognized in the detection area and it was previously evaluated in step c) that the other object was recognized first. This advantageously means that a sensor-controlled setting is ended again when the other object is no longer in the detection area. Thus, in particular, operation of the sanitary fitting that is as water-saving as possible is possible. However, it is also possible for the sensor-controlled setting and thus the delivery of the specified water jet flow rate and the specified water jet temperature to be ended after a specified period of time has elapsed. A corresponding time span can be, for example, 30 seconds or preferably 20 seconds.
Nach einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass das andere Objekt zumindest eine Hand oder ein Objekt ist, das in Querrichtung betrachtet eine größere Ausbreitung hat als der Wasserstrahl. Die Ausbreitung des Wasserstrahls in Querrichtung betrifft hier den Wasserstrahldurchmesser. Die Querrichtung betrifft hier eine Richtung, die quer zur Längsrichtung orientiert ist. Die hier erfolgte Beschreibung des anderen Objekts ist dann vorteilhaft, wenn die Sensoranordnung dazu eingerichtet ist, eine Objektbreite zu messen.According to an advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the other object is at least a hand or an object which, viewed in the transverse direction, has a larger spread than the water jet. The spread of the water jet in the transverse direction affects the water jet diameter. The transverse direction here relates to a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal direction is oriented. The description of the other object given here is advantageous if the sensor arrangement is set up to measure an object width.
Nach einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass das Auswerten in Schritt c) mittels einer Steuereinheit erfolgt. Die Steuereinheit kann hierbei in die Sensoranordnung integriert sein. Die Steuereinheit ist insbesondere so in die Sanitärarmatur integriert, dass diese das erläuterte Verfahren veranlassen und/oder überwachen kann.According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the evaluation in step c) take place by means of a control unit. The control unit can be integrated into the sensor arrangement. The control unit is in particular integrated into the sanitary fitting in such a way that it can initiate and / or monitor the explained method.
Die beschriebene Funktionsweise der Sanitärarmatur wird insbesondere dadurch erreicht, dass die Sensoranordnung im externen Erfassungsbereich eine Objektüberprüfung und eine Objektbewertung durchführt. Die beschriebene Funktionsweise ist insbesondere auch aufgrund unabhängiger Armaturenkreisläufe der Sanitärarmatur möglich. Die hier beschriebene Objektüberprüfung und Objektbewertung erfolgt derart, dass wenn zuerst ein anderes Objekt, insbesondere eine Hand, im Erfassungsbereich detektiert wird, der sensorgesteuerte Wasserkreislauf, insbesondere mittels eines Magnetventils, geöffnet wird. Wird aber zuerst ein Wasserstrahl, ausgelöst über das manuelle Stellglied und erst danach eine Hand detektiert, so bleibt der sensorgesteuerte Wasserkreislauf geschlossen. In diesem Fall wird der Wasserstrahl ausschließlich über das manuelle Stellglied verstellt.The described mode of operation of the sanitary fitting is achieved in particular in that the sensor arrangement in the external detection area carries out an object check and an object evaluation. The mode of operation described is also possible in particular due to independent valve circuits of the sanitary fitting. The object inspection and object assessment described here is carried out in such a way that when another object, in particular a hand, is first detected in the detection area, the sensor-controlled water circuit is opened, in particular by means of a solenoid valve. However, if a water jet, triggered by the manual actuator, is detected first and only then a hand is detected, the sensor-controlled water circuit remains closed. In this case, the water jet is only adjusted using the manual actuator.
Die beschriebene Funktionsweise der Sanitärarmatur bietet in vorteilhafter Weise auch eine hohe Funktionssicherheit. Es wird ermöglicht, dass bereits ein minimaler austretender Wasserstrahl erkannt wird, der mittels bekannter mechanischer Messkomponenten noch nicht zu erfassen wäre. Dies wird aufgrund des optischen Erkennens der Erfindung ermöglicht.The described mode of operation of the sanitary fitting also offers a high level of functional reliability in an advantageous manner. It is made possible that even a minimal emerging water jet is detected, which could not yet be detected by means of known mechanical measuring components. This is made possible due to the optical recognition of the invention.
Die Erfindung betrifft auch eine Sanitärarmatur, die zur Abgabe eines Wasserstrahls eingerichtet ist. Die Sanitärarmatur hat mindestens ein manuelles Stellglied zur manuellen Einstellung zumindest eines Wasserstrahldurchflusses oder einer Wasserstrahltemperatur und eine Sensoranordnung, die zu einer sensorgesteuerten Einstellung eines vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und einer vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur eingerichtet ist. Die Sensoranordnung ist dazu eingerichtet, das Vorhandensein eines Objekts in einem externen Erfassungsbereich zu erkennen. Zudem ist eine Steuereinheit vorgesehen, die dazu eingerichtet ist, ein zuerst erkanntes Objekt auszuwerten und zu unterscheiden, ob das zuerst erkannte Objekt ein Wasserstrahl oder ein anderes Objekt ist.The invention also relates to a sanitary fitting which is set up to deliver a jet of water. The sanitary fitting has at least one manual actuator for the manual setting of at least one water jet flow rate or a water jet temperature and a sensor arrangement which enables a sensor-controlled setting of a predetermined water jet flow rate and a predetermined water jet temperature is established. The sensor arrangement is set up to detect the presence of an object in an external detection area. In addition, a control unit is provided which is set up to evaluate an object recognized first and to distinguish whether the object recognized first is a water jet or another object.
Nach einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass die Steuereinheit in die Sensoranordnung integriert ist.According to an advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the control unit be integrated into the sensor arrangement.
Nach einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass die Steuereinheit zur Durchführung des zuvor beschriebenen Verfahrens eingerichtet ist.According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the control unit be set up to carry out the method described above.
Nach einer noch weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass die Sensoranordnung mindestens einen optischen oder akustischen Sensor umfasst, der fluchtend zu dem Wasserstrahl angeordnet ist und wobei der Erfassungsbereich eine Erfassungsbereichsbreite hat, die größer ist als ein Wasserstrahldurchmesser. Eine solche Anordnung ist besonders vorteilhaft, wenn die Sensoranordnung dazu eingerichtet ist, eine Objektbreite zu messen bzw. zu erkennen. Eine solche Anordnung ermöglicht es, auch Randbereiche neben dem Wasserstrahl zu erfassen.According to yet another advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that the sensor arrangement comprises at least one optical or acoustic sensor which is arranged in alignment with the water jet and wherein the detection area has a detection area width that is greater than a water jet diameter. Such an arrangement is particularly advantageous if the sensor arrangement is set up to measure or recognize an object width. Such an arrangement also makes it possible to detect edge areas next to the water jet.
Nach einer weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass zumindest eine Erfassungsbereichslänge größer als eine Sensoranordnungslänge oder eine Erfassungsbereichsbreite größer als eine Sensoranordnungsbreite ist. Hierdurch wird in vorteilhafter Weise ermöglicht, dass auch solche Objekte erkannt werden, die sich nicht direkt vor der Sensoranordnung befinden. Somit kann bspw. auch eine Hand erkannt werden, die sich in einem Waschbecken befindet und in Längsrichtung betrachtet nicht auf einer Höhe mit der Sensoranordnung liegt. Eine solche Erkennung bzw. Erfassung kann dadurch ermöglicht werden, dass bspw. bei einem optischen Sensor Licht in verschiedene Richtungen bzw. über einen horizontalen und/oder einen vertikalen Winkelbereich abgegeben wird bzw. wieder empfangen wird.According to a further advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that at least one detection area length is greater than a sensor arrangement length or that a detection area width is greater than a sensor arrangement width. This advantageously enables objects to be recognized that are not located directly in front of the sensor arrangement. Thus, for example, a hand can also be recognized which is located in a wash basin and, viewed in the longitudinal direction, is not level with the sensor arrangement. Such a detection or detection can be made possible in that, for example, in a optical sensor light is emitted or received again in different directions or over a horizontal and / or a vertical angular range.
Nach einer noch weiteren vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung wird vorgeschlagen, dass kein mechanischer Sensor zur Erfassung eines Stellausschlags des Stellglieds vorgesehen ist. Wenn es auch möglich ist, die vorliegende Erfindung in eine bekannte Hybrid-Armatur nachzurüsten, so ist es doch bevorzugt, dass auf eine zusätzliche mechanische Messkomponente bzw. einen mechanischen Sensor und der damit einher gehenden Analyse des Zustands des Stellglieds zur Einrichtung des Betriebs verzichtet wird. Wenn auf einen mechanischen Sensor verzichtet wird, kann ein erheblich geringerer Verschleiß der Sanitärarmatur erreicht werden.According to yet another advantageous embodiment, it is proposed that no mechanical sensor be provided for detecting an actuating deflection of the actuator. Although it is also possible to retrofit the present invention in a known hybrid valve, it is preferred that an additional mechanical measuring component or a mechanical sensor and the associated analysis of the state of the actuator for setting up the operation is dispensed with . If a mechanical sensor is dispensed with, the sanitary fitting can be significantly less worn.
Die vorstehend im Zusammenhang mit dem Verfahren erörterten Details, Merkmale und vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen können entsprechend auch bei der hier vorgestellten Sanitärarmatur auftreten. Insoweit wird auf die dortigen Ausführungen zur näheren Charakterisierung des Verfahrens vollumfänglich Bezug genommen.The details, features and advantageous configurations discussed above in connection with the method can accordingly also occur in the sanitary fitting presented here. In this respect, reference is made in full to the statements made there for a more detailed characterization of the method.
Die Erfindung sowie das technische Umfeld werden nachfolgend anhand der Figuren erläutert. Die Figuren zeigen Details, die die Erfindung nicht beschränken sollen. Insbesondere ist nicht anzunehmen, dass alle Details einer Figur separat nur in der dargestellten Weise ausgeprägt sein müssen oder nur in der dargestellten Kombination miteinander auftreten können. Sollte eine solche Situation vorliegen, wird hier explizit darauf hingewiesen. Es zeigen schematisch:
- Fig. 1:
- eine prinzipielle Darstellung des Verfahrens zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur,
- Fig. 2:
- ein erstes manuelles Einstellen eines Wasserdurchflusses,
- Fig. 3:
- ein zweites manuelles Einstellen eines Wasserdurchflusses,
- Fig. 4:
- ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen eines vorgegebenen Wasserdurchflusses,
- Fig. 5:
- ein Erkennen des Vorhandenseins eines Objekts.
- Fig. 1:
- a basic representation of the procedure for operating a sanitary fitting,
- Fig. 2:
- a first manual setting of a water flow rate,
- Fig. 3:
- a second manual setting of a water flow rate,
- Fig. 4:
- a sensor-controlled setting of a specified water flow rate,
- Fig. 5:
- a detection of the presence of an object.
Auf den Schritt c) folgt hier eine Wenn-Dann-Entscheidung. Wenn die hinterlegte Objektzustandsgröße 17 der Zustand "anderes Objekt" ist, dann folgt in Schritt d) ein sensorgesteuertes Einstellen des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur. In diesem Fall wird das Verfahren in einem sensorgesteuerten Kreislauf 16 fortgeführt. Lautet der in Schritt c) hinterlegt Zustand jedoch "Wasserstrahl", so wird das Verfahren in einem manuellen Kreislauf 15 fortgeführt. Beispielhaft folgt im sensorgesteuerten Kreislauf 16 auf den Schritt d) ein Schritt e), in dem ein weiteres Überwachen, Erkennen und Auswerten durchgeführt wird. Hier wird erneut die Objektzustandsgröße 17 hinterlegt. Auf den Schritt e) folgt wiederum eine Wenn-Dann-Entscheidung. Lautet der nun hinterlegte Zustand immer noch "anderes Objekt", so erfolgt weiterhin das sensorgesteuerte Einstellen des vorgegebenen Wasserstrahldurchflusses und der vorgegebenen Wasserstrahltemperatur. Wenn jedoch der Zustand "Wasserstrahl" hinterlegt wurde, so wir in einem Schritt f) das sensorgesteuerte Einstellen unterbrochen. Nach dem Unterbrechen startet das Verfahren erneut bei Schritt a).Step c) is followed here by an if-then decision. If the stored
In
In
In
In
Aus der Darstellung nach
In
In
Die Sensoranordnung 3 erkennt hier das Vorhandensein eines Objekts, nämlich das Vorhandensein des Wasserstrahls 4. Es wird erkannt, dass es sich um einen Wasserstrahl 4 handelt, weil ein gemessener Objektabstand 22 in einem vordefinierten Wasserstrahlbereich liegt. Somit entspricht hier der gemessene Objektabstand 22 einem Wasserstrahlabstand 23.The
Mittels der horizontal ausgerichteten Sensoranordnung 3 der
Damit wird ein Verfahren zum Betrieb einer Sanitärarmatur und eine Sanitärarmatur aufgezeigt, wobei hier eine günstige Herstellung, eine Verwendung von Standardkomponenten und ein geringer Verschleiß ermöglicht werden. Zudem ist eine hohe Funktionssicherheit gewährleistet, da mittels der Sensoranordnung bereits ein minimaler Wasserstrahl erfassbar ist.A method for operating a sanitary fitting and a sanitary fitting is thus shown, in which case inexpensive production, the use of standard components and low wear are made possible. In addition, a high level of functional reliability is guaranteed since a minimal water jet can already be detected by means of the sensor arrangement.
- 11
- SanitärarmaturPlumbing fixture
- 22
- StellgliedActuator
- 33
- SensoranordnungSensor arrangement
- 44th
- WasserstrahlWater jet
- 55
- ErfassungsbereichDetection area
- 66th
- anderes Objektother object
- 77th
- SteuereinheitControl unit
- 88th
- Handhand
- 99
- ErfassungsbereichslängeDetection area length
- 1010
- SensoranordnungslängeSensor array length
- 1111
- ErfassungsbereichsbreiteDetection area width
- 1212
- SensoranordnungsbreiteSensor array width
- 1313
- optischer Sensoroptical sensor
- 1414th
- WasserstrahldurchmesserWater jet diameter
- 1515th
- Manueller KreislaufManual cycle
- 1616
- Sensorgesteuerter KreislaufSensor-controlled circuit
- 1717th
- ObjektszustandsgrößeObject state size
- 1818th
- WasserstrahldurchflussWater jet flow
- 1919th
- StrömungsrichtungDirection of flow
- 2020th
- erster Stellwinkelfirst adjustment angle
- 2121st
- LängsrichtungLongitudinal direction
- 2222nd
- ObjektabstandObject distance
- 2323
- WasserstrahlabstandWater jet distance
- 2424
- AuslassOutlet
- 2525th
- QuerrichtungTransverse direction
- 2626th
- ObjektbreiteObject width
Claims (9)
- A method for operating a sanitary fitting (1), which is designed for emitting a water jet (4), said fitting having at least one manual adjustment member (2) for manually adjusting at least one water jet flow or water jet temperature and a sensor array (3), which is designed for sensor-controlled adjustment of a pre-set water jet flow and a pre-set water jet temperature of the water jet (4), wherein the sanitary fitting (1) emits the water jet (4) with a pre-defined water jet flow and a pre-defined water jet temperature based on the sensor-controlled adjustment, and wherein the method comprises at least the following steps:a) monitoring of an external detection zone (5) by means of the sensor array (3),b) detection of the presence of an object in the detection zone (5) by means of the sensor array (3),c) assessment of the initially detected object and discernment whether the initially detected object is a water jet (4) or another object (6),d) sensor-controlled adjustment of the pre-set water jet flow and of the pre-set water jet temperature if the other object (6) was detected in the detection zone (5) first, wherein the sensor-controlled adjustment is stopped if a water jet (4) was detected first and only if the other object (6) was detected in the detection zone (5) afterwards.
- The method according to Claim 1, wherein the pre-set water jet flow and the pre-set water jet temperature are interrupted if the other object (6) is no longer detected in the detection zone (5) and if in step c) it was previously assessed that the other object (6) was detected first.
- The method according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the other object (6) is at least a hand (8) or an object which, when viewed diagonally, has a greater breadth than the water jet (4).
- The method according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein the assessment in step c) is carried out using a control unit (7).
- A sanitary fitting (1), which is designed to emit a water jet (4), having at least one manual adjustment member (2) for manually adjusting at least one water jet flow or a water jet temperature and a sensor array (3), which is designed for sensor-controlled adjustment of a pre-set water jet flow and a pre-set water jet temperature of the water jet (4), wherein the sanitary fitting (1) emits the water jet (4) with a pre-defined water jet flow and a pre-defined water jet temperature based on the sensor-controlled adjustment, and wherein the sensor array (3) is designed to detect the presence of an object in an external detection zone (5), characterized in that provision is made of a control unit (7), which is designed to assess an initially detected object and to discern whether the initially detected object is a water jet (4) or another object (6) .
- The sanitary fitting according to Claim 5, wherein the control unit (7) is integrated in the sensor array (3).
- The sanitary fitting according to any one of Claims 5 to 6, wherein the control unit (7) is designed to carry out the method according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.
- The sanitary fitting according to any one of Claims 5 to 7, wherein the sensor array (3) comprises at least one optical sensor (13), which is arranged in alignment with the water jet (4) and wherein the detection zone (5) has a detection zone width (11) that is greater than a water jet diameter (14).
- The sanitary fitting according to any one of Claims 5 to 8, wherein a mechanical sensor for detecting an adjustment amplitude of the adjustment member (2) is not provided.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
DE102015002779.4A DE102015002779A1 (en) | 2015-03-06 | 2015-03-06 | Hybrid tap with water jet detection |
PCT/EP2016/000379 WO2016142044A1 (en) | 2015-03-06 | 2016-03-04 | Hybrid fitting with water jet detection |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP3265618A1 EP3265618A1 (en) | 2018-01-10 |
EP3265618B1 true EP3265618B1 (en) | 2021-01-13 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP16713730.6A Active EP3265618B1 (en) | 2015-03-06 | 2016-03-04 | Hybrid fitting with water jet detection |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US10590636B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3265618B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN107429506B (en) |
DE (1) | DE102015002779A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016142044A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11984768B2 (en) | 2020-04-17 | 2024-05-14 | Zurn Water, Llc | Hydroelectric generator for faucet and flush valve |
US11802396B2 (en) | 2021-03-26 | 2023-10-31 | As America, Inc. | Hybrid faucet assembly |
Family Cites Families (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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DE2034877C2 (en) * | 1970-07-07 | 1971-12-30 | Visolux Elektronik Richard Sie | CONTROL DEVICE RESPONDING TO MOVEMENT IN THE WATER OUTLET AREA FOR WATER SUPPLIES FROM WASHBASIN OR THE LIKE |
US4767922A (en) * | 1986-08-25 | 1988-08-30 | Honeywell Inc. | Hand presence activated water faucet controller |
US5566702A (en) * | 1994-12-30 | 1996-10-22 | Philipp; Harald | Adaptive faucet controller measuring proximity and motion |
US5819336A (en) * | 1995-01-03 | 1998-10-13 | Integrated Technology Systems, Inc. | Control system for automatic control of a water rinsing system |
WO1998041701A1 (en) * | 1997-03-16 | 1998-09-24 | Reglomat Ag | Method and device to influence at least one object property |
DE19723312A1 (en) * | 1997-06-04 | 1998-12-10 | Grohe Armaturen Friedrich | Water outlet valve arrangement |
CN2500880Y (en) * | 2001-07-12 | 2002-07-17 | 金德奎 | Duplex induction water tap |
JP2006283441A (en) * | 2005-04-01 | 2006-10-19 | Toto Ltd | Automatic water discharge control device and its control method |
US7472433B2 (en) * | 2006-01-05 | 2009-01-06 | Masco Corporation Of Indiana | Method and apparatus for determining when hands are under a faucet for lavatory applications |
JP4292586B1 (en) | 2007-12-21 | 2009-07-08 | Toto株式会社 | Water discharge device |
US8418993B2 (en) * | 2010-02-02 | 2013-04-16 | Chung-Chia Chen | System and method of touch free automatic faucet |
US9816634B2 (en) * | 2011-03-15 | 2017-11-14 | Aquis Sanitaer Ag | Sanitary fitting having a fitting housing and a control unit |
US9010377B1 (en) * | 2011-06-17 | 2015-04-21 | Moen Incorporated | Electronic plumbing fixture fitting |
WO2013134525A2 (en) * | 2012-03-07 | 2013-09-12 | Moen Incorporated | Electronic plumbing fixture fitting |
JP6293405B2 (en) * | 2012-07-23 | 2018-03-14 | 株式会社Lixil | Single lever mixer tap |
-
2015
- 2015-03-06 DE DE102015002779.4A patent/DE102015002779A1/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2016
- 2016-03-04 EP EP16713730.6A patent/EP3265618B1/en active Active
- 2016-03-04 CN CN201680014072.9A patent/CN107429506B/en active Active
- 2016-03-04 WO PCT/EP2016/000379 patent/WO2016142044A1/en active Application Filing
-
2017
- 2017-09-06 US US15/696,627 patent/US10590636B2/en active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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None * |
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DE102015002779A1 (en) | 2016-09-08 |
WO2016142044A1 (en) | 2016-09-15 |
US10590636B2 (en) | 2020-03-17 |
US20170368565A1 (en) | 2017-12-28 |
CN107429506A (en) | 2017-12-01 |
EP3265618A1 (en) | 2018-01-10 |
CN107429506B (en) | 2020-06-23 |
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