EP3513008B1 - Sanitary outlet unit - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a sanitary outlet unit according to claim 1, wherein in the outlet unit a valve element arranged in a flow path in a housing can be switched between an open position and a closed position, the closed position being arranged below the open position in the use position.

The invention further relates to a method according to claim 18 for actuating an outlet unit according to one of claims 1-17, wherein a valve element arranged in a flow path in a housing is transferred from a closed position to an open position lying thereabove.

With such sanitary outlet units, which in principle can have an outer contour that allows insertion into an outlet opening of a sanitary fitting, there is a desire to realize different flow rates. National legislation often stipulates that a flow rate in standard operation is limited to a prescribed level. However, the user wishes to be able to remove such flow rate limitations for a short time.

Out of WO 2011/147496 A1 a sanitary outlet insert is known in which a flow cross-section of a flow rate regulator or flow limiter can be preselected or varied by axially changing the relative position of an actuating element and a counter-element, with a handle being provided on an outlet face of the outlet insert for this purpose, which is designed as a pushbutton, and where an actuating movement on the handle can be converted into an axial relative movement of the actuating element and counter-element by means of a push-button mechanism. such Pushbutton mechanisms are usually bistable, so that there is usually no automatic return to a preferred starting position.

Other prior art dropout units are also disclosed in the documents DE202015000855U1 , US2954936A , EP1443151A1 and US3334818A disclosed.

The invention is based on the object of improving the functional properties of a sanitary outlet unit while observing legal requirements.

To solve this problem, the features of claim 1 are provided according to the invention in a sanitary outlet unit. In particular, in order to achieve the stated object, it is proposed according to the invention for a sanitary outlet unit of the type described at the outset that the valve element has a contact surface which rests against the counter surface of the housing in the open position and is spaced apart from the counter surface in the closed position, so that the counter surface in the closed position, water in the flow path can be wetted, and that an application surface is formed on the valve element, which can be acted upon in the open position by a pressure prevailing in the flow path, so that the contact surface is pressed against the counter surface. Thus, the valve element can be held in the open position by the pressure that prevails in the flow path. As soon as this pressure drops, the valve element can fall into the closed position below the open position, for example due to its own weight. In this way it can be achieved that the sanitary outlet unit automatically returns to the limiting operation after use, in which the valve element limits the flow path more in the closed position than in the open position. On the other hand, the Invention that the valve element can be set up automatically in the open position durable, as long as sufficient water flows in the flow path and thus a sufficient pressure is built up. This makes it easier to use, since the user can move the valve element manually into the open position, for example, but does not have to hold the valve element in this open position. This improves the usage properties of the sanitary outlet unit, while at the same time legal requirements, according to which the standard setting in normal operation should be the flow-limited setting, can be met.

The loading surface is preferably formed on a side of the valve element that faces away from the contact surface. Thus, a contact pressure can be applied directly to the counter surface.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a displacement body is formed on the valve element, which in the open position is arranged in a receiving space that can be closed by the contact surface and the counter surface and in the closed position is at least partially outside the receiving space. As a result, a pressure-controlled holding of the valve element in the open position can be improved. Because the use of a receiving space whose volume can be selected, for example, only slightly larger than or equal to the volume of the displacement body, it is possible to develop additional resistance against an automatic return to the closed position. Here, the configuration makes use of the fact that water can flow less easily into a receiving space than air, so that removing the displacement body from the receiving space is more difficult in a water environment than in one air environment. The air environment is set here, for example, when the water flow is switched off.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the displacement body is guided in the receiving space. This facilitates a defined transfer of the valve element between the closed position and the open position. It is particularly favorable if the displacement body is guided in a displaceable manner. This allows for easy motion sequences and can be beneficial in assisting the return motion due to gravity.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that at least one relief channel is formed between the displacement body and an inner wall of the receiving space, via which water displaced from the receiving space can be discharged. This makes it easier to move the valve element into the open position, in which case the displacement body has to displace water from the receiving space. When returning to the closed position, the at least one relief channel can be favorable for the ventilation of the receiving space in order to release the displacement body. It is particularly favorable if the at least one relief channel opens into the flow path. This simplifies the structural design of the sanitary outlet unit and enables the displaced water to be easily discharged from the receiving space.

In the embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that an actuating element is formed which is accessible from outside the housing and with which the valve element can be transferred from the closed position into the open position. The advantage here is that manual operation, ie switching from the closed position to the open position is easy to do on the outside. The actuating element is preferably designed in the form of a rod in order to be structurally as simple as possible and/or to take up as little installation space as possible in the sanitary outlet unit. The rod-shaped actuating element is preferably aligned along the flow path. This has the advantage that the valve element can be operated from below the sanitary outlet unit in the position of use. On the one hand, the operating element can thus be easily integrated into the external shape of the sanitary outlet unit and, on the other hand, no additional changes are required in this way, for example to a fitting outlet into which the sanitary outlet unit is to be inserted. Furthermore, the transfer movement from the closed position to the open position is immediately comprehensible for the user, since the actuating element moves in the same direction as the valve element.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the actuating element is formed separately from the valve element. The advantage here is that the actuating element can be detached from the valve element after the valve element has been transferred into the open position. The weight of the actuating element does not have to be held by the water pressure. It is preferably provided here that a part of the impingement surface can be covered with the actuating element and can be released to the flow path. The holding force for the valve element can thus be additionally increased as soon as the actuating element has been detached from the valve element. The invention makes use here of the fact that the released part of the impingement surface is pressurized during operation and can thus contribute to the holding force of the valve element in the upper open position. The actuator is preferably independent of the Valve element movably arranged. A return to a starting position can thus be carried out independently of the valve element.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the actuating element is guided in the housing. The advantage here is that the movement of the actuating element can be defined independently of the movement of the valve element. A decoupling of the two movements is thus made possible. This simplifies the requirements for tolerances to be observed, so that the actuating element and the valve element can be easily adjusted. It is particularly favorable if the actuating element is also guided in a displaceable manner. A movement of the valve element can thus be brought about directly by the actuating element without mechanical conversion.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the impingement surface is arranged upstream of a flow obstacle in the flow path in the open position. A sufficient water pressure can thus be developed, which can hold the valve element in the open position. The flow obstacle is preferably formed by a valve seat of the valve element or on a valve seat, for example close to the valve seat. Additional flow obstacles are therefore not necessary, which simplifies the structural design.

In one embodiment of the invention, provision can be made for the contact surface to be formed on a circumferential rim which, in the closed position, interacts with a valve seat, for example the valve seat already mentioned, to at least partially close it. A closed position is thus formed in a simple manner, which according to Art a throttle or can be designed with more complex control functions. The use of an all-round rim has the additional advantage that space for the formation of the contact surface mentioned is created in a simple manner.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a quantity regulator or quantity limiter is connected upstream of the valve element in the flow path. The advantage here is that legal requirements can be met even in the case of short-term operating states. It is also advantageous that defined flow and/or pressure conditions can be set up downstream of the flow regulator or flow limiter, which enable the sanitary outlet unit according to the invention to function particularly well.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the contact surface is formed on the inflow side in the closed position on the valve element. The advantage here is that the valve element can be independently brought into the closed position by the water pressure in the flow path after a first detachment from the open position. For this purpose, the water pressure acts on the contact surface as soon as it has separated from the counter surface. As a result, the restoring effect can be reinforced by the valve element's own weight.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the displacement body is made of a metallic material. The advantage here is that a higher dead weight can be achieved. The entire valve element is preferably made of the metallic material. Multiple components are therefore avoidable at this point. As a cheaper metallic material has, for example exposed brass.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the actuating element is made of plastic. This enables a particularly simple manufacture of the actuating element. The formation of the actuating element from plastic is particularly favorable when the actuating element is formed separately from the valve element and is arranged so that it can be detached from it. In this case, the actuator is required to be provided with a sufficient self-weight since it is not restrained by the valve member.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a flow restrictor is arranged in such a way that the valve element is shielded at least in sections in the circumferential direction in the open position. It is thus possible for a turbulent flow of water to flow against the valve element, or even avoid it altogether. An unintentional detachment of the valve body from the counter surface, which could be caused by vortices and/or reflected currents that push in between the contact surface and the counter surface, can thus be suppressed. Provision is preferably made for the flow diaphragm to shield the valve body, in particular its brim, along an entire circumferential length of the valve element, ie for example over an angle of 360°. In this way, all-round protection against the valve body accidentally falling into the closed position can be achieved. In this case, the flow diaphragm can surround the valve body in a ring-shaped manner. It is favorable if the flow screen describes a circular ring. The valve body, which may not be round, thus fits into the ring of the flow orifice plate without the need for a non-rotatable guide for the valve body.

In this case, the flow diaphragm can be arranged in a stationary manner, for example on the housing or on a carrier or frame part. The advantage here is that energy and/or impulses from turbulent flow components can be easily absorbed and/or guided around the valve element. It is particularly favorable if the flow screen is arranged adjacent to the opposing surface. A joint surface or a gap between the contact surface and the counter surface can thus be effectively shielded.

It is favorable if the flow diaphragm shields the valve element at its brim in order to prevent detachment in a particularly effective manner. A height of the flow diaphragm is preferably matched to a height of the rim. In this way, the brim can be completely covered.

In this configuration it can be provided that the flow screen is arranged along the flow path behind an impact surface. In this way, vortices or flows that are reflected by the impact surface and flow in the direction of the valve element can be easily deflected. Alternatively or additionally, it can be provided that the flow restrictor protrudes into a valve chamber accommodating the valve element.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a flow straightener is arranged in the flow path in front of the valve element. Thus, a flow can be aligned evenly. The formation of vortices, which in particular can cause the valve element to detach from the opposing surface and thus cause the valve element to fall into its closed position, can thus be reduced or even completely suppressed.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the flow straightener is designed in multiple stages. Compared to a one-piece design of a single, correspondingly longer flow straightener, this can be manufactured better by injection molding. In principle, it seems conceivable to use a thick rectifier that only has one plate or stage with holes. Here, however, the boundary conditions of injection molding technology must be taken into account, which, with the small bores used here of, for example, 0.25 mm in diameter, harbor the risk that the bore holes will close again due to shrinkage during cooling. A multi-stage design can help to avoid this effect.

The so-called aspect ratio, i.e. the ratio of the diameter of the bores to the length of the bores, can be improved by the multi-stage structure, so that the described closure of bores due to shrinkage can be avoided.

The flow straightener can thus have one stage, two stages, or more than two stages, for example three, four or five or more than five stages.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the flow straightener has at least one insert. A flow straightener can thus be retrofitted in an existing outlet unit and/or the flow straightener can be easily removed and/or exchanged later. The insert preferably forms a stage of the flow straightener, in particular one of the stages already mentioned.

The or each insert can be designed as a plate with bores, with the bores being able to bring about a rectification due to the aspect ratio already mentioned.

If each stage is designed as an insert, a straightening behavior of the flow straightener can be easily modified by changing the number of inserts and/or modifying the design of the inserts by changing them.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that at least one passage nozzle is arranged in the flow path between the flow straightener and the valve element. An edge of the passage nozzle can also form a support for the inserts already mentioned. It is particularly favorable if the flow orifice plate is continuously connected to the passage nozzle. Undesirable vortex formation can thus be reduced or even avoided.

It is particularly favorable here if a flow straightener, for example the flow straightener already described, is arranged in front of the passage nozzle. Turbulence in the downstream valve chamber can thus be largely avoided.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the contact surface bears against the counter-surface in a contact area and a distance is formed outside of the contact area. Thus, a flat contact of the contact surface with as few gaps as possible or even without any gaps can be achieved at the boundary surface, without the unavoidable surface unevenness in the vicinity of the contact area, its function and in particular adhesion would interfere in the open position. In this case, it is favorable if the surface area of the contact area is smaller than the surface area of a surface covered by the contact surface. In this way, the contact surface can be seated precisely on the opposite surface by selecting the contact area to be as small as possible. In order to achieve a good hold of the valve element in the open position by the internal pressure of the flowing water, the area in which a spacing or gap is formed should have as large an extent as possible along the contact surface compared to the contact area.

It can be provided that the contact area is limited by one step. This represents a particularly simple means of, on the one hand, maintaining the desired distance beyond the contact area and, on the other hand, creating a good transition to the contact area. In this case, the step can be formed in the contact surface and/or in the counter surface.

In order to achieve the stated object, the features of the independent claim directed to a method are provided according to the invention in a method for actuating a valve. In particular, it is therefore proposed according to the invention to achieve the stated object in a method of the type described above that the valve element is acted upon in the open position by a pressure prevailing in the flow path, so that a contact surface of the valve is pressed and held against a counter surface on the housing. It is thus possible for the valve element to automatically remain in the open position as long as there is pressure in the flow path. This facilitates operation since a user is not forced to hold the valve element in the open position.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the valve element automatically falls into the closed position after a pressure drop in the flow path. It is thus possible for the valve to assume a state in normal operation in which the valve element is arranged in the closed position. It is particularly favorable if the valve element falls into the closed position due to its own weight. Additional return springs and the like are therefore not necessary.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that the pressure is generated by a flow obstacle downstream of the valve element in the open position. The advantage here is that no additional pressure generating means are required. It is particularly favorable if the flow obstacle is produced by a valve seat of the valve element and/or if the flow obstacle defines a limitation or regulation of the water flow in the flow path in the closed position.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that when the valve element is transferred into the open position, water is displaced from a receiving space for a displacement body of the valve element. The advantage here is that additional resistance can be built up against the valve element automatically returning to the closed position as long as water is present. In particular, the displacement can take place via at least one relief channel, for example the relief channel already mentioned.

In one embodiment of the invention it can be provided that the valve element in the closed position by a pending pressure on the contact surface in the flow path in a Valve seat, for example the valve seat already mentioned, is held. The advantage here is that a return movement of the valve element into the closed position can be reinforced or supported by a pressure in the flow path.

In one embodiment of the invention, it can be provided that a sanitary outlet unit according to the invention, in particular as described above and/or according to one of the claims directed to a sanitary outlet unit, is used. Thus, the described advantages of the sanitary outlet unit according to the invention can be used with the method according to the invention.

The invention will now be described in more detail using an exemplary embodiment, but is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. Further exemplary embodiments result from combining the features of individual or multiple claims with one another and/or with one or more features of the exemplary embodiment.

Fig. 1

eine erfindungsgemäße sanitäre Auslaufeinheit in einer aufgeschnittenen Darstellung, wobei das Ventilelement in der Schließstellung befindlich ist,

Fig. 2

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 1, wobei das Ventilelement mit dem Betätigungselement in die Offenstellung überführt ist,

Fig. 3

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 1, wobei das Ventilelement in der Offenstellung und das Betätigungselement von dem Ventilelement gelöst angeordnet ist,

Fig. 4

die Situation gemäß Figur 1 in einer Ansicht von der Seite,

Fig. 5

die Situation gemäß Figur 1 in einer Ansicht schräg von unten auf die Auslaufstruktur,

Fig. 6

eine weitere erfindungsgemäße Auslaufeinheit in einer aufgeschnittenen Darstellung, wobei das Ventilelement in der Schließstellung befindlich ist,

Fig. 7

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 6, wobei das Ventilelement mit dem Betätigungselement in die Offenstellung überführt ist,

Fig. 8

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 6, wobei das Ventilelement in der Offenstellung und das Betätigungselement von dem Ventilelement gelöst angeordnet ist,

Fig. 9

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 6 in einem Längsschnitt,

Fig. 10

eine Detailvergrößerung aus Fig. 9,

Fig. 11

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 6 in Explosionsdarstellung,

Fig. 12

die sanitäre Auslaufeinheit gemäß Figur 9 zur Verdeutlichung der Lage der Detailvergrößerung in Fig. 13 und

Fig. 13

eine Detailvergrößerung aus Fig. 12 mit Strömungsgeschwindigkeitsvektoren.

It shows:

1

a sanitary outlet unit according to the invention in a cutaway view, with the valve element being in the closed position,

2

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 1 , wherein the valve element is transferred to the open position with the actuating element,

3

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 1 , wherein the valve element in the open position and the actuating element is arranged detached from the valve element,

4

the situation according to figure 1 in a side view,

figure 5

the situation according to figure 1 in a view diagonally from below of the outlet structure,

6

another outlet unit according to the invention in a cut-open view, with the valve element being in the closed position,

7

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 6 , wherein the valve element is transferred to the open position with the actuating element,

8

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 6 , wherein the valve element is arranged in the open position and the actuating element is detached from the valve element,

9

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 6 in a longitudinal section,

10

a detail enlargement 9 ,

11

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 6 in exploded view,

12

the sanitary outlet unit according to figure 9 to clarify the position of the detail enlargement in 13 and

13

a detail enlargement 12 with flow velocity vectors.

the Figures 1 to 5 are initially described together below, with the different switching states then being discussed in more detail.

An outlet unit denoted as a whole by 1 forms a flow path 2 for water flowing through it on the inside. The flow path 2 is formed in a multi-part housing 3 in a manner known per se.

In the flow path 2, a valve element 4 is arranged, which between an open position ( Figures 2 and 3 ) and a closed position ( figures 1 , 4 and 5 ) is switchable.

The closed position is in this case arranged below the open position when the sanitary outlet unit 1 is in use in the orientation according to FIG figure 1 is used. For this purpose, the closed position--as mentioned--can be arranged exactly below the open position or below the open position, but offset laterally to a position exactly below.

In use, the sanitary outlet unit 1 is held in a manner known per se by a mouthpiece 5 on a fitting (not shown).

A contact surface 6 is formed on the valve element 4 . A corresponding mating surface 7 is formed on the housing 3 and interacts with the contact surface 6 in such a way that the mating surface 7 bears flat against the contact surface 6 when the valve element 4 is in the open position.

In the closed position, on the other hand, the contact surface 6 is arranged at a distance from the counter surface 7 .

The counter-surface 7 is accessible from the flow path 2 in the closed position and is therefore wetted when water is present in the flow path 2 .

In addition, an application surface 8 is formed on the valve element 4 . The loading surface 8 is oriented downwards, while the contact surface 6 is oriented upwards. In other words, the impingement surface 8 is aligned in an orientation facing away from the contact surface 6 .

In the open position of the valve element 4, the pressure-actuating surface 8 is thus pressurized and presses the valve element 4 against the counter-surface 7.

A displacement body 9 is formed on the valve element 4 and fits into a receiving space 10 .

The displacement body 9 is shown as an example with a cylindrical shape.

The displacement body 9 is displaceably guided in the receiving space 10 by its inner contour. In the open position, the displacement body 9 fills the receiving space 10 completely. In the closed position, on the other hand, the displacement body 9 is partially arranged outside the receiving space 10 and protrudes into it only as far as is necessary for the displaceable guide mentioned.

A plurality of relief channels 12 are formed between the displacement body 9 and an inner wall 11 of the receiving space 10 , via which water that is displaced from the receiving space 10 can flow back into the flow path 2 .

Below the valve element 4, a rod-shaped actuating element 13 is formed, which is accessible from the outside.

The actuating element 13 is slidably guided in an outlet structure 14 and acts on the valve element 4 from below, on the acting surface 8.

The actuating element 13 is formed separately from the valve element 4 so that part of the impingement surface 8 can be covered and uncovered by the actuating element 13 .

Here, this part of the impingement surface in the figure 2 covered and in the figure 3 Approved.

The application surface 8 is arranged upstream of the valve seat 15 in the flow path 2 . The valve seat 15 forms a flow obstacle in the flow path 2, so that a pressure builds up in front of the valve seat 15, which pressure keeps the valve element 4 in the open position.

The contact surface 6 and the loading surface 8 are formed on a peripheral rim 16 of the valve element 4 . In the closed position, the rim 16 partially closes the valve seat 15 in order to achieve an additional narrowing. For this purpose, flattened areas 17 are formed on the brim 16 , which in itself describes a round basic shape, which each form passage gaps on the valve seat 15 .

The valve element 4 is preceded in the flow path 2 by a quantity regulator or quantity limiter 18 which is known per se and by means of which defined conditions can be set in the vicinity of the valve element 4 .

The contact surface 6 is formed on the inflow side of the valve element 4 in the closed position, so that the valve element 4 is guided into the closed position by the flow pressure and held in the closed position as soon as the contact surface 6 is detached from the counter surface 7 .

The displacement body 9 and overall the entire valve element 4 are made of brass. The actuating element 13, on the other hand, is made of plastic, as is the housing 3 with the outlet structure 14.

figure 1 shows the resting state of the sanitary outlet unit 1. The valve element 4 is arranged in the closed position.

During operation, the flow along the flow path 2 is thus defined by the valve element 4 and in particular the flat areas 17 in the valve seat 15 .

Manual pressure on the actuating element 13 from bottom to top moves the valve element 4 into the open position according to FIG figure 2 transferred. In this case, water is displaced from the receiving space 10 by means of the displacement body 9 via the relief channels 12 .

The valve element 4 is pressed with its contact surface 6 against the counter surface 7 on the housing 3 .

In this open position, the application surface 8 is acted upon by the pressure built up or prevailing in the flow path 2, so that the valve element 4 is held in the open position.

Therefore, the valve element 4 remains in the open position even if the actuating element 13 is left to itself and detaches from the valve element 4 and falls down. This holding in the open position takes place as long as water flows in the flow path 2 and the necessary pressure is built up.

If there is a drop in pressure in the flow path 2, the valve element 4 with the displacement body 9 falls into the closed position according to FIG figure 1 return.

In the open position, the valve seat 15 has a maximum free internal cross section, so that the flow rate is increased compared to the closed position.

It can also be seen from the figures that the pressure which keeps the valve element 4 in the open position is generated by the valve seat 15 and subsequent flow obstacles.

the Figures 6 to 13 are described together below, with functionally and/or constructively similar or identical components and functional units being denoted by the same reference symbols and not being described separately again. The comments on the preceding figures therefore apply to the Figures 6 to 13 corresponding.

The embodiment according to Figures 6 to 13 differs from the previous embodiment at least characterized in that - upstream of a passage nozzle 23 - a flow straightener 20 is formed. This flow straightener 20 is composed of two layers, the first stage 21 and the second stage 22 . Each stage 21, 22 is in this case designed as an annular insert 34.

In further exemplary embodiments, other numbers or shapes of steps 21, 22 are formed, for example three or more than three steps and/or circular disk-shaped inserts 34.

In the Figures 6 to 13 is in the valve chamber 28, which is formed along the flow path 2 behind the passage nozzle 23, a flow orifice 19 is formed. The flow orifice 19 protrudes into the valve chamber 28 and encloses the valve element 4 along the full circumference of the rim 16. The flow orifice 19 is close to the opposing surface 7 here.

The flow screen 19 has a height that is matched to a thickness of the rim 16 . The brim 16 is thus stretched completely behind the flow screen 19 .

How out figure 11 As can be seen, the brim 16 has a non-round shape with the flattened areas 17 already described.

Flow baffle 19, on the other hand, has the shape of a circular ring, which encloses rim 16 on all sides. This prevents the rim 16 from being able to collide with the flow screen 19 as a result of a rotation about its longitudinal axis, with the flow screen 19 being moved as close as possible to the rim 16 at the same time.

In the figures 10 and 12 it is shown in more detail that the mating surface 7 is divided by a step 26 . This defines a contact area 24 in which the contact surface 6 and the counter-surface 7 lie flat against one another.

This contact area 24 is only a fraction of the area 25 covered by the valve element 4 and more precisely its brim 16. This small proportion can easily be made sufficiently flat in terms of production technology, so that the contact surface 6 is sufficiently close to the counter surface 7 to push the valve element 4 through the to keep the water pressure in the upper position.

The step 26 thus forms a gap 30 through which the contact surface 6 is spaced apart from the counter-surface 7 beyond the contact area 24 . In this case, unevenness plays no role in holding the valve element 4 .

In figure 13 the course of the flow in the flow path 2 is indicated using flow velocity vectors 27 . The drawn line of the flow path 2 is to be understood as an approximate sketch of the basic course of the flow.

The straightening effect of the flow straightener 20 can be seen from the fact that the flow velocity vectors 27 define a general flow direction with a low degree of turbulence after exiting the passage nozzle 23 . Subsequent structures cause a renewed increase in turbulence, but to an acceptable level.

It can be seen that the flow from an impact surface 29 on the impact part 32 in the direction of the valve element 4 is reflected. In order to prevent the flow from penetrating between the contact surface 6 and the counter surface 7 and thus causing the valve element 4 to detach from the upper position, the flow restrictor 19 already described is formed.

figure 11 shows the outlet unit 1 in an exploded view. The outlet unit 1 therefore has a flow regulator 18, on which an attachment screen (in figure 11 not visible) is attached. The quantity regulator 18 has, in a manner known per se, a control body 35 which, with a control profile 36, defines a control gap 37 in such a way that a constant flow rate can be achieved independently of the pressure.

The housing 3 , in which the perforated plate-like inserts 34 are inserted, which form the stages 21 , 22 of the flow straightener 20 , is arranged below the quantity regulator 18 in the direction of flow.

On the outflow side of the housing 3 , the receiving space 10 is formed, which receives the displacement body 9 of the valve element 4 .

The housing 3 is followed by the impact part 32, which has the impact surface 29 (cf. 10 ) and the valve seat 15 provides.

This is followed by the dismantling part 31, which causes the water jet to be aerated in a manner known per se.

In figure 9 It can also be seen that the actuating element 13 is connected to a sleeve-shaped handle 33 on the outside. The actuating element 13 can thus be actuated from the outside without having to intervene in the water jet. In the present exemplary embodiment, this connection is realized via the outlet structure 14 . However, it can also be formed separately from the outlet structure 14 .

A sleeve part 38 accommodates the dismantling part 31, the impact part 32 and the housing 3 with the quantity regulator 28 clipped on. The sleeve part 38 is held in the outlet mouthpiece 5, which can be screwed into a fitting outlet (not shown in any more detail).

In summary, it is therefore proposed according to the invention for a sanitary outlet unit 1 that a contact surface 6 is formed on a valve element 4 that can be adjusted in a flow path 2 between an open position and a closed position, which contact surface 6 covers a corresponding, stationary counter surface 7 in the open position and releases it in the closed position. so that the valve element 4 is automatically held in the open position by the pressure in the flow path and returns to the closed position when the pressure drops.

Reference List

1

sanitary outlet unit

2

flow path

3

Housing

4

valve element

5

mouthpiece

6

contact surface

7

counter surface

8th

impingement surface

9

displacement body

10

recording room

11

inner wall

12

relief channel

13

actuator

14

discontinuation structure

15

valve seat

16

brim

17

flattening

18

flow limiter

19

flow screen

20

flow straightener

21

first stage of 20

22

second stage of 20

23

passage nozzle

24

investment area

25

Surface

26

Step

27

flow velocity vector

28

valve chamber

29

baffle

30

gap

31

cutting part

32

impact part

33

handle

34

mission

35

control body

36

rule profile

37

control gap

38

sleeve part

Claims (23)

1. Sanitary outlet unit in which a valve element (4) arranged in a flow path (2) in a housing (3) is switchable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the closed position is arranged below the open position in the use position, wherein the valve element (4) has a contact surface (6) which, in the open position, bears on a counterpart surface (7) of the housing (3) and, in the closed position, is spaced apart from the counterpart surface (7), such that the counterpart surface (7) in the closed position is wettable by water in the flow path (2), and an impingement surface (8) is formed on the valve element (4) and, in the open position, can be acted upon by a pressure prevailing in the flow path (2), such that the contact surface (6) is pressed against the counterpart surface (7), characterized in that an actuating element (13) is formed which is accessible from outside the housing (3) and with which the valve element (4) is transferable from the closed position to the open position, wherein the flow path is limited to a greater degree in the closed position than in the open position.
2. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the impingement surface (8) is formed on a side of the valve element (4) directed away from the contact surface (6), and/or in that a displacement body (9) is formed on the valve element (4), which displacement body (9), in the open position, is arranged in a receiving space (10) closeable by the contact surface (6) and the counterpart surface (7) and, in the closed position, is arranged at least partially outside the receiving space (10).
3. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to either of the preceding claims, characterized in that the displacement body (9) is guided preferably displaceably in the receiving space (10).
4. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one relief channel (12) preferably opening into the flow path (2) is formed between the displacement body (9) and an inner wall (11) of the receiving space (10), and water displaced from the receiving space (10) is removable via said relief channel (12).
5. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (13) is rod-shaped.
6. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (13) is formed separately from the valve element (4) and in particular so as to be movable independently thereof, in particular wherein a part of the impingement surface (8) can be covered by the actuating element (13) and can be freed with respect to the flow path (2).
7. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating element (13) is guided preferably displaceably in the housing (3).
8. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in the open position in the flow path (2), the impingement surface (8) is arranged upstream from a flow obstacle preferably formed by or at a valve seat (15) of the valve element (4).
9. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact surface (6) is formed on an encircling rim (16) which, in the closed position, interacts with the or a valve seat (15) to provide an at least partial closure.
10. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a flow rate regulator or flow rate limiter (18) is arranged upstream from the valve element (4) in the flow path (2) .
11. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact surface (6), in the closed position, is on the inflow side of the valve element (4).
12. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the displacement body (9), in particular the valve element (4), is made of a metallic material, preferably of brass, and/or in that the actuating element (13) is made of plastic.
13. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a flow baffle (19) is arranged, in particular in a stationary manner and/or adjacent to the counterpart surface (7), in such a way that, in the closed position, the valve element (4), in particular at its rim (16), is screened off in the circumferential direction at least in part, preferably along an entire circumferential length, in particular wherein the flow baffle (19) is arranged along the flow path (2) behind an impact surface (29) and/or protrudes into a valve chamber (28) that receives the valve element (4).
14. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a flow straightener (20) is arranged in the flow path (2) before the valve element (4).
15. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flow straightener (20) has a multi-stage configuration, and/or in that the flow straightener (20) has at least one insert (34) that preferably forms a stage (21, 22).
16. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one through-flow nozzle (23) is arranged in the flow path (2) between the flow straightener (20) and the valve element (4).
17. Sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the contact surface (6) bears on the counterpart surface (7) in a contact region (24), and a distance is formed outside of the contact region (24), in particular wherein a surface area of the contact region (24) is smaller than a surface area of a surface (25) covered by the contact surface, and/or the contact region (24) is delimited by a step (26).
18. Method for actuating a sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 17, wherein a valve element (4) arranged in a flow path (2) in a housing (3) is transferred from a closed position to an open position lying above the closed position, characterized in that the valve element (4), in the open position, is acted upon by a pressure prevailing in the flow path (2), such that a contact surface (6) of the valve element (4) is pressed and held against a counterpart surface (7) on the housing (3), wherein the valve element (4), after a pressure drop in the flow path (2), falls automatically to the closed position.
19. Method according to Claim 18, characterized in that the valve element (4), after a pressure drop in the flow path (2), falls automatically to the closed position by reason of its inherent weight.
20. Method according to Claim 18 or 19, characterized in that the pressure is generated by a flow obstacle arranged downstream from the valve element (4) in the open position.
21. Method according to one of Claims 18 to 20, characterized in that, when the valve element (4) is transferred to the open position, water is displaced from a receiving space (10) for a displacement body (9) of the valve element (4), in particular via at least one relief channel (12).
22. Method according to one of Claims 18 to 21, characterized in that the valve element (4), in the closed position, is held in the or a valve seat (15) by a pressure arising at the contact surface (6) in the flow path (2).
23. Method according to one of Claims 18 to 22, characterized in that a sanitary outlet unit (1) according to one of Claims 1 to 17 is used.

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