EP4279674A1 - Actuating unit - Google Patents

Abstract

An actuation unit (1) for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises a functional unit (5) with a bearing element (6) and at least one actuation plate (9) for actuating a push rod (8) acting on the flush valve, the at least one actuation plate ( 9) is mounted via at least one pivot bearing point (10) on the functional unit (5) so that it can pivot about a pivot axis (S) from an initial position into a flushing position, the bearing element (6) defining a plane (E), which in the installed position is parallel to the visible side lies on a pre-wall, the pivot axis (S) running parallel to said plane (E), and where in the starting position the front side (30) of the actuation plate (9) lies in such a way that in the direction of the surface normal (F) it points to the plane (E ) seen distance (A) between the front side (30) and the plane (E) increases with increasing distance (D) from the pivot axis (S).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an actuation unit for actuating a flush valve in a cistern according to claim 1.

STATE OF THE ART

A large number of actuation units or actuation plates for triggering the flush are known from the prior art. Such actuation units typically include two actuation buttons. One of the buttons is used to trigger a full flush and the other of the buttons is used to trigger a partial flush. The actuation buttons typically act on push rods, which then mechanically actuate a flush valve in a cistern so that the flush can be triggered.

From the EP 2 672 030 an actuation unit has become known. According to the EP 2 672 030 An actuation button or actuation plate lying parallel to the visible side of a pre-wall in the initial position has become known.

Although the actuation unit according to the EP 2 672 030 has an extremely aesthetic appearance, the disadvantage is that the stroke of the actuation button is very limited.

PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

Based on this prior art, the present invention is based on the object of providing an actuation unit which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, an actuation unit should be specified which creates a larger lifting movement for an actuation plate. This particularly under the standard of an aesthetic appearance.

This object is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Accordingly, an actuation unit for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises a functional unit with a bearing element and at least one actuation plate for actuating a push rod acting from the flush valve. The at least one actuation plate is mounted on the functional unit so that it can pivot about a pivot axis via at least one pivot bearing point. The at least one actuation plate can be pivoted from a starting position into a rinsing position and from the rinsing position back into the starting position. The bearing element defines a plane which, in the installed position, lies parallel to the visible side of a pre-wall. The pivot axis runs parallel to said plane. In the starting position, the front side of the actuation plate is located in such a way that a distance between the front side and the plane, viewed in the direction of the surface normal to the plane, increases as the distance from the pivot axis increases.

In the installed position, the plane is essentially parallel to the surface of a pre-wall. This means that the front side is inclined at an angle to the surface of the pre-wall. The plane is preferably a vertical plane.

By increasing the distance mentioned as the distance from the pivot axis increases, the actuation path of the actuation plate can be optimized for the actuation of the actuation lever. For example, a larger distance can be provided with a larger distance than with a smaller distance.

Another advantage of this configuration is that the user can be provided with good signaling of the actuation plate due to the angled arrangement.

In a first variant, the distance increases continuously as the distance from the pivot axis increases. In a second variant, the distance increases variably as the distance from the pivot axis increases. In other words, the distance becomes constantly larger as the distance increases or the distance becomes variably larger as the distance increases.

Preferably the distance becomes smaller when the actuation plate is actuated.

Preferably, the angle between the front of the actuation plate and the plane in the starting position is between 4° and 20°, in particular between 5° and 12°.

Preferably, when viewed in the installed position, the pivot axis runs horizontally and the distance is maximum at the end of the actuation plate opposite the pivot axis. This means that the distance increases as the distance to the pivot axis increases.

When viewed in the installed position, the pivot axis is above the maximum distance. In other words, the actuation plate extends obliquely downwards when viewed from the pivot axis.

Preferably, the front side of the at least one actuation plate has an extension which is such that the functional unit is covered by the actuation plate when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the actuation plate.

In other words, the at least one actuation plate covers the functional unit towards the front. There is therefore no need to provide a panel element.

Preferably, the at least one actuation plate has a carrier element and a decorative element, the decorative element being firmly attached to the carrier element and the decorative element completely covering the carrier element when viewed in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element.

The decorative element is preferably glued to the carrier element. The decorative element is preferably made of glass or metal or plastic or a mixture of materials, such as a polymer-bound mineral material. The carrier element is preferably made of plastic. The carrier element preferably comprises the elements provided for the pivot bearing point.

The decorative element preferably has an extension which is such that the functional unit is covered by the actuation plate when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element.

Preferably, the front side of the actuation plate or any decorative element that may be present is designed to be curved with a curvature around an axis of curvature, wherein the axis of curvature preferably runs parallel to the pivot axis. Alternatively, the front of the actuation plate or any decorative element that may be present can be designed as a flat surface.

Preferably, the maximum distance between the front and the plane is in the range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters.

Preferably, the pivot axis is at a distance from the upper edge of the actuation plate, the distance corresponding to at most one fifth, in particular at most one eighth or one tenth, of the distance between the upper edge and the lower edge of the actuation plate. In other words, this means that the pivot axis is significantly closer to the top edge than to the bottom edge. The upper edge and the lower edge are preferably parallel to one another and parallel to the pivot axis.

Preferably, the actuation unit further comprises at least one actuation lever mounted on the bearing element. The back of the at least one actuation plate acts on the at least one actuation lever and pivots it relative to the bearing element during the movement from the starting position into the flushing position, such that the push rod can be actuated.

During actuation, the actuation plate is preferably in contact with the actuation lever via several contact points, the contact points lying below a horizontal plane which runs parallel to the pivot axis, at right angles to the plane and centrally through the actuation plate.

Preferably, a contact point between the actuating lever and the actuating plate in the initial position or at the start of actuation lies in front of said plane and the pivot axis lies behind said plane.

For assembly into a cistern or a pre-wall, the actuation unit can be connected directly to the functional unit with the cistern or a pre-wall. For this purpose, the functional unit can have at least one corresponding fastening element.

In another variant, a support element can be used for this, as described below to be available. In this further variant, the actuation unit preferably further comprises at least one support element, which is designed with at least one fastening element for fastening the support element and with a bearing receptacle, wherein the functional unit can be inserted into the bearing receptacle. Preferably, the support element lies with an edge parallel to said plane. The back of the at least one actuation plate acts on the at least one actuation lever and pivots it during the movement from the starting position into the flushing position in the direction of the support element, such that said push rod can be actuated.

The at least one actuation plate also covers the support element.

If the support element is present, the functions "connection of the actuation unit to a cistern or a pre-wall" and "movement of the elements provided for triggering a flush, such as the actuation plate and actuation lever," are mechanically decoupled from one another. The support element is provided for the storage of the actuation unit and the functional unit is provided for the movement of the elements provided for triggering the flush. This decoupling has the advantage that the support element can be designed for attachment to a cistern or a pre-wall as well as for mounting the actuation unit as a whole and that the actuation unit is designed for the movement of the elements that are intended for triggering a flush, or the Triggering of the flushing function can be provided.

In other words: the arrangement of the functional unit, on which the at least one actuating lever and the at least one actuating plate is mounted, and the placement of the functional unit in the bearing holder have the advantage that the functional unit can be designed optimally for the execution of the functions.

In addition, the functional unit offers the advantage of an actuation plate bearing, which is independent of the attachment of the support element.

The support element is preferably designed to be slightly elastic, so that it can compensate for error tolerances that occur during assembly. In contrast, the functional unit is designed to be as rigid as possible, so that good support can be provided for the moving parts and thus the flushing can be triggered reliably can be done.

The functional unit is designed separately from the support element and can be mechanically connected to the support element.

Preferably, the bearing element of the functional unit has greater rigidity, in particular greater flexural rigidity and/or greater torsional rigidity, than the support element.

This means that the support element is designed to be more easily deformable and therefore easier to adapt to the actual assembly situation. The functional unit is less easily deformable, which is beneficial for the movement and storage of the operating levers and the operating plates.

Preferably, the support element and the bearing element each have a bottom wall. Reinforcing ribs extend away from the bottom wall. The reinforcing ribs are designed in such a way that the bearing element of the functional unit has greater rigidity, in particular greater flexural rigidity and/or greater torsional rigidity, than the support element.

The reinforcing ribs essentially increase the rigidity of the bottom wall.

Preferably, in the state connected to the bearing receptacle, the bearing element lies essentially completely in the bearing receptacle and does not protrude from the bearing receptacle. This allows a particularly compact structure to be created.

Preferably, the bearing receptacle in the support element is limited by a bottom wall and side walls projecting from the bottom wall. Preferably, the bearing holder is essentially cuboid-shaped, with the depth of the bearing holder being many times smaller than the width and length of the bearing holder.

The bottom wall preferably has openings through which the push rods protrude. The push rods extend from the rear through the bearing holder and protrude towards the front out of the bearing holder.

Preferably, the functional unit and the support element have locking elements mechanically locked together. The locking elements are provided by bearing pins and bearing openings.

In one variant, the support element has at least two bearing openings lying opposite one another and the functional unit has a fixed bearing pin and a spring-loaded bearing pin, the bearing pins engaging in the bearing openings for firmly mounting the functional unit in the bearing holder.

In another variant, the functional unit has at least two bearing openings lying opposite one another and the support element has a fixed bearing pin and a spring-loaded bearing pin, with the bearing pins engaging in the bearing openings for fixed storage of the functional unit in the bearing holder.

The bearing openings or the bearing pins lie opposite one another in such a way that the functional unit comes to rest between the bearing openings or the bearing pins on the support element.

There are preferably a total of four locking elements present.

Preferably, the bearing openings located opposite each other are located relative to one another in such a way that their central axes running centrally through the bearing openings are parallel to one another, in particular collinear to one another.

The spring-loaded bearing pin preferably has an actuation surface on which the installer can place a tool during maintenance work.

Preferably, the bearing element has at least one projecting rib which, when connected to the support element, engages in a corresponding recess on the support element. The rib/recess pairing can be arranged in addition to or as an alternative to the locking elements described above.

Preferably, the at least one fastening element lies in lateral edge regions of the bearing receptacle and the bearing element of the functional unit has at least one free cut, such that when the bearing element is inserted, the at least one fastening element can still be accessed and actuated.

This allows the fastening element to be actuated with the functional unit inserted. For example, they can be tightened, loosened or otherwise operated.

The fastening elements are preferably designed as slide elements. The slide elements are slidably mounted in slide receptacles on the support element. The slide elements are further designed to engage in a corresponding receptacle on a cistern.

Preferably, a locking element is slidably mounted on the bearing element of the functional unit. The support element has a latch holder. The locking element can be moved from a release position in which the locking element is not in engagement with the locking receptacle to a locking position in which the locking element is in firm engagement with the locking receptacle. The firm engagement between the locking element and the locking receptacle is such that a separating movement between the bearing element and the support element is impossible. In the release position, the bearing element can be separated from the support element.

Preferably, the locking element has a slot-like space and the locking receptacle is provided by a wall area. In the locking position, the wall area protrudes into the slot-like space.

Preferably, the locking element is seen in the installed position of the actuation unit, which covers at least one actuation plate and is therefore not visible. In other words, this means that a user who looks at the front of the actuation plate in the direction of the surface normal cannot see the locking element.

Preferably, the locking element is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points when viewed with respect to the bearing receptacle. In the installed position, the locking element is located below the pivot bearing points and is therefore accessible from below.

Preferably, the locking element is arranged at a distance from the back of the actuation plate, in particular when it is in the starting position, the distance creating a gap through which the locking element can be grasped.

The locking element is preferably on an outer edge of the bearing element arranged.

The locking element preferably has a locking tab via which the locking element engages in a locking recess on the support element in the locking position.

Preferably, the locking element is moved from the release position into the locking position along a longitudinal movement. The locking element is therefore mounted on the bearing element with a longitudinal guide.

Preferably, the locking element and the locking receptacle engage with one another in the locking position in such a way that movement of the bearing element against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin is made impossible.

Preferably, there are two pivot bearing points arranged at a distance from one another per actuation plate. The pivot bearing points for an actuation plate are preferably arranged as far apart as possible from one another.

Preferably, the pivot bearing point is provided by a pivot bearing axis and a pivot bearing receptacle, the pivot bearing axis being pivotably mounted in the pivot bearing receptacle.

Preferably, the pivot bearing receptacle has a breakthrough, which is designed such that the pivot bearing axis can be inserted into the pivot bearing receptacle via this breakthrough.

Preferably, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the bearing element and the pivot bearing receptacle is arranged on the actuation plate. Alternatively, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the actuation plate and the pivot bearing receptacle is arranged on the bearing element.

Preferably, the at least one pivot bearing point is arranged at an upper edge of the bearing element.

Preferably, the actuation plate extends upwards and downwards with respect to the pivot axis when viewed in the installed position. The extension upwards is significantly smaller than the downward extension.

The pivot axis is preferably located inside the bearing holder when the functional unit is inserted into the bearing holder.

The actuation plate preferably has a stop on the actuation plate side with a corresponding stop surface and the functional unit has a stop on the functional unit side with a corresponding stop surface, the two stops or stop surfaces mentioned abutting against one another when the actuation plate is in the starting position.

When the at least one actuation plate is actuated, the two stop surfaces mentioned are moved away from one another. When the actuation plate is in the starting position, the two stop surfaces mentioned lie between the functional unit and the at least one actuation plate.

The position of the stop surfaces in the starting position between the functional unit and the at least one actuation plate has the advantage that the thickness of the actuation unit can be made compact.

Particularly preferably, the two stop surfaces lie in the starting position between the bearing element of the functional unit and the at least one actuation plate.

The stop preferably acts as a stop against movement from the starting position against the movement into the actuation position. In other words, the stop holds the actuation plate in its initial position.

When the actuation plate moves from the starting position to the flushing position, the two stops are moved relatively away from one another, as mentioned. When the actuation plate moves from the flushing position to the starting position, the two stops are moved relative to one another.

The actuation unit preferably also has at least one spring element. The at least one spring element is arranged between the back of the actuation plate and the bearing element and presses the actuation plate away from the bearing element in such a way that the two stop surfaces can be brought into contact with one another.

Preferably, the functional unit-side stop is mounted on the bearing element so that it can be adjusted relative to the bearing element. This adjustability ensures that the position of the actuation plate can be adjusted in the initial position. The stop on the actuation plate side is preferably designed as a fixed or non-adjustable stop.

Preferably, the functional unit-side stop is adjustable in a stop guide in the bearing element and a stop adjustment screw is also mounted in the bearing element, such that the functional unit-side stop is adjustable when the stop adjustment screw is actuated.

Preferably, the stop on the functional unit side is mounted in the stop guide so that it can be adjusted in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, the stop adjustment screw and the functional unit-side stop are designed such that after the stop has been adjusted, the functional unit-side stop lies firmly in the stop guide.

Preferably, the stop guide protrudes from the side of the bearing element that faces the actuation plate and provides a guide for the stop on the functional unit side towards the actuation plate.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw is rotatably and axially fixed in a receptacle in the bearing element.

The stop on the functional unit side preferably has a threaded opening into which the thread of the stop adjustment screw engages.

The receptacle preferably has two spring sections into which the stop adjustment screw can be clipped.

The stop adjustment screw preferably has a screw head which is designed with a plurality of elevations so that the screw head can be easily gripped.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw has a drive structure via which the stop adjustment screw can be operated with a tool. The drive structure is preferably designed as a hexagon socket and/or as a slot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the drive structure is located such that the drive structure is accessible from the front, i.e. from the side of the actuation plate. In this variant, the actuation plate can be moved from the initial position into a mounting position, so that the stop adjustment screw located behind the actuation plate in the initial position becomes accessible. This means an installer can align the flush plate very easily.

Preferably, the stop on the actuation plate side is part of a hook protruding from the back of the actuation plate.

Preferably, the hook is designed in such a way that during an assembly movement it is deflected relative to the stop on the functional unit side, the hook being in the deflected state in such a way that the two stop surfaces lie laterally to one another, such that the two stop surfaces are displaceable relative to one another and the hook in the undeflected state is such that the two stop surfaces lie relative to one another in such a way that the two stop surfaces can be brought into contact with one another.

For this purpose, the hook and the stop on the functional unit side preferably have a beveled surface, which promotes movement into the deflected state. The stop surfaces are located behind the beveled surfaces.

Preferably, the bearing element has a recess, with the hook being moved into the recess during the actuating movement of the actuating plate from the starting position into the flushing position.

When viewed in the installed position, the recess lies below the stop guide.

Preferably, two actuation plates are arranged next to one another, with the actuation plates being spaced apart from one another by a gap. In the installed position, the gap preferably runs essentially vertically. The two actuation plates are arranged in such a way that they cover the support element and the functional unit, as described above.

Preferably, each of the actuation plates has a stop such that the Front sides of the actuation plates can be aligned relative to one another.

• dass das Supportelement Öffnungen zur Durchführung von mit dem Spülventil zusammenwirkenden Drückerstangen aufweist, und/oder
• dass am Lagerelement mindestens ein Federelement angeordnet ist, welches die Betätigungsplatte in Richtung der Ausgangslage mit einer Federkraft beaufschlagt; und/oder
• dass das Lagerelement der Funktionseinheit Durchbrüche für die Hindurchführung der Betätigungshebel aufweist.

Further training is characterized by:

• that the support element has openings for the passage of push rods that interact with the flushing valve, and/or
• that at least one spring element is arranged on the bearing element, which applies a spring force to the actuation plate in the direction of the starting position; and or
• that the bearing element of the functional unit has openings for the passage of the operating lever.

A sanitary arrangement comprising an actuation unit according to the above description, a cistern with a flush valve and a pre-wall, the actuation unit being arranged with said plane parallel to the visible side of the pre-wall.

Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Ansicht einer teilweise explodiert dargestellten Betätigungseinheit gemäss einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform von oben;

Fig. 2

die Ansicht von Figur 1 von unten;

Fig. 3

eine perspektivische Explosionsansicht der Betätigungseinheit;

Fig. 4

eine Detailansicht der Figur 3;

Fig. 5

eine Detailansicht der Figur 4;

Fig. 6

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Lagerstelle der Betätigungseinheit gemäss den vorhergehenden Figuren;

Fig. 7

eine perspektivische Ansicht der Betätigungseinheit nach einer der vorhergehenden Figuren mit einem Verriegelungselement;

Fig. 8

eine Rückansicht der Figur 7;

Fig. 9a/9b

perspektivische Detailansichten des Verriegelungselements der Betätigungseinheit gemäss den vorhergehenden Figuren 7 und 8;

Fig. 10

eine Schnittdarstellung durch eine Schwenklagerstelle der Betätigungseinheit gemäss den vorhergehenden Figuren in der Ausgangslage;

Fig. 11

die Darstellung nach Figur 10 in der Spüllage; und

Fig. 12

eine Rückansicht und eine Detailansicht der Betätigungseinheit nach einer der vorhergehenden Figuren mit einem Anschlag.

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which serve only for explanation and are not to be interpreted in a restrictive manner. Shown in the drawings:

Fig. 1

a perspective view of a partially exploded actuation unit according to a preferred embodiment from above;

Fig. 2

the view of Figure 1 from underneath;

Fig. 3

an exploded perspective view of the actuation unit;

Fig. 4

a detailed view of the Figure 3 ;

Fig. 5

a detailed view of the Figure 4 ;

Fig. 6

a sectional view through a bearing point of the actuation unit according to the previous figures;

Fig. 7

a perspective view of the actuation unit according to one of the preceding figures with a locking element;

Fig. 8

a rear view of the Figure 7 ;

Fig. 9a/9b

perspective detailed views of the locking element Actuation unit according to the previous ones Figures 7 and 8th ;

Fig. 10

a sectional view through a pivot bearing point of the actuation unit according to the previous figures in the starting position;

Fig. 11

the representation Figure 10 in the flushing position; and

Fig. 12

a rear view and a detailed view of the actuation unit according to one of the preceding figures with a stop.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the Figures 1 to 12 A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be explained. The Figures 1 to 12 show different views of an actuation unit according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention.

The actuation unit 1 for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises an optional support element 2, a functional unit 3 and at least one actuation plate 9. An embodiment with two actuation plates 9 is shown in the figures.

The optional support element 2, which is in the Figures 1 to 4 is particularly clearly visible, comprises at least one fastening element 3. In the embodiment shown, two fastening elements 3 are present. With the at least one fastening element 3, the support element 2 can be fastened to a cistern or a pre-wall or another structure. Furthermore, the support element 2 has a bearing holder 4. The support element 2 has a bottom wall 12. Reinforcing ribs 15 and side walls 16 extend from the bottom wall 12 and side walls 16 extend on the circumference. The bearing holder 4 in the support element 2 is delimited by said bottom wall 12 and by side walls 16 projecting from the bottom wall 12. In the embodiment shown, the bearing holder 6 is essentially cuboid-shaped. The depth of the bearing holder 6 is many times smaller than the width and length of the bearing holder 6. In the embodiment shown, a flange 48 extends further away from the side walls 16. The flanges 48 have the advantage that gaps, such as those that can arise between the support element 2 and a pre-wall, can be covered. The support element 2 also has two openings 49 through which push rods 8 can be passed to operate a flushing valve.

In the Figures 1 to 5 The functional unit 5 can also be seen in more detail. The functional unit 5 can be inserted into the bearing holder 4. The functional unit 5 comprises a bearing element 4 and at least one actuating lever 7 mounted on the bearing element 6. Two actuating levers 7 are arranged here. The operating lever 7 is moved by the operating plate 9. This means that the at least one actuation plate 9 acts with its back 11 on the at least one actuation lever 7 and pivots it towards the support element 2 during the movement from the starting position into the flushing position, such that the push rod 8 can be actuated. The actuating lever 7 acts on the push rod 8.

If the support element 2 is not used, the functional unit 5 can be connected to the cistern or to the pre-wall.

The at least one actuation plate 9 is mounted on the functional unit 5 via at least one pivot bearing point 10 so that it can pivot about a pivot axis S from an initial position into a flushing position. Two pivot bearing points 10 are arranged here per actuation plate 9. The pivot bearing points 10 are preferably at the greatest possible distance from one another. The preferred design of the pivot bearing points 10 is explained in detail below.

The bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 preferably has a greater rigidity, in particular a greater flexural rigidity and/or a greater torsional rigidity, than the support element 2. As a result, forces that act when the at least one actuation plate is actuated can be easily absorbed by the functional unit 5 and the bearing element 6 can be connected to a cistern or a pre-wall with slight deformation.

The bearing element 6 and the bearing receptacle 4 are preferably designed such that the bearing element 6 lies essentially completely in the bearing receptacle 4 in the assembled state. This will be in the Figure 4 and 7 shown accordingly.

In the Figures 4 to 5 Locking elements are shown with which the functional unit 5 is mechanically locked or connected to the support element 2. The locking elements are provided by bearing pins 17 and corresponding bearing openings 18. The support element 2 has at least two bearing openings 18, each located opposite one another. There are a total of four storage openings 18 here. The Functional unit 5 has at least one fixed bearing pin 17 and one spring-loaded bearing pin 17. In the embodiment shown, two pairs of bearing journals are arranged, each with a fixed and a spring-loaded bearing journal. To securely mount the functional unit 5 in the bearing holder 4, the bearing pins 17 engage in the bearing openings 18. The spring-loaded bearing pins 17 are acted upon by the spring force of a compression spring 50. The spring-loaded bearing pin 17 here has an actuating surface 47, which can be actuated with a tool for disassembly purposes.

For further mechanical fastening of the bearing element 6 in the bearing receptacle, the bearing element 6 has at least one rib 19 projecting from the bearing element 6. When the support element 2 is in the connected state with the bearing element 6, the rib 19 engages in a corresponding recess 20 on the support element 2.

In the Figure 7 it is shown that the at least one fastening element 3 lies in the lateral edge regions of the bearing holder 4. Furthermore, the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 has at least one free cut 51. Here, a free cut 51 is arranged for each fastening element 3. The at least one free cut 51 is arranged in such a way that when the bearing element 6 is inserted, the at least one fastening element 3 can still be accessed and actuated.

Based on Figures 7 to 9a / 9b An optional locking element is explained in more detail, which serves to lock the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 in the bearing holder 4. A locking element 21 is slidably mounted on the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5. The support element 2 has a latch receptacle 22. The locking element 21 can be moved from a release position in which the locking element 21 is not in engagement with the locking receptacle 22 to a locking position in which the locking element 21 is in firm engagement with the locking receptacle 22. The firm engagement between the locking element 21 and the locking receptacle 22 is such that a separating movement between the bearing element 6 and the support element 2 is impossible. In the Figure 7 the locking element 21 is in the release position and in the Figure 8 the locking element 21 is in the locking position.

The locking element 21 has a slot-like space 23 and the locking receptacle 22 is provided by a wall region 24. In the locking position, the wall area 24 projects into the slot-like space 23.

The locking element 21 is seen in the installed position of the actuation unit 1, covered by the at least one actuation plate 9 and therefore not visible.

The locking element 21 is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points 10 with respect to the bearing receptacle 4. Seen in the installed position, the locking element 21 lies below the pivot bearing points 10.

Preferably, the locking element 21 is arranged at a distance from the back 11 of the actuation plate 9, especially when it is in the starting position. This is for example from the Figure 12 or can be seen from the side cuts. The distance creates a gap through which the locking element 21 can be grasped from below.

The support element 2 has a locking tab 25, via which the support element 2 engages in a locking recess 26 on the locking element 21 in the locking position.

Preferably, the locking element 21 is moved from the release position into the locking position along a longitudinal movement. The locking element 21 and the locking receptacle 22 engage with one another in the locking position in such a way that movement of the bearing element 6 against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin 17 is made impossible.

Of the Figure 5 and other figures, the structure of the pivot bearing points 10 can be seen. There are preferably two pivot bearing points 10 arranged at a distance from one another per actuation plate 9. Each of the pivot bearing points 10 is provided by a pivot bearing axis 27 and a pivot bearing receptacle 28. The pivot bearing axis 27 is pivotably mounted in the pivot bearing receptacle 28.

The pivot bearing receptacle 28 further has an opening 29, which is designed such that the pivot bearing axis 27 can be inserted into the pivot bearing receptacle 28 via this opening 29. In the embodiment shown, the pivot bearing axis 27 has two flattened areas and two rounded areas. The flattened areas have the advantage that the assembly of the actuation plates 9 to the functional unit 5 becomes easier.

In the embodiment shown, the pivot bearing axis 27 is arranged on the bearing element 6 and the pivot bearing receptacle 28 is arranged on the actuation plate 9.

Preferably, the at least one pivot bearing point 10 is arranged at an upper edge of the bearing element 6.

When the functional unit 5 is inserted into the bearing holder 4, the pivot axis S is located inside the bearing holder 4. This is from the sectional views Figures 6 , 10 and 11 visible.

Based on all figures, in particular based on the two sectional views according to Figures 10 and 11 The preferred design of the actuation plates is explained below.

In the embodiment shown, the front side 30 of the at least one actuation plate 9 has an extension which is such that the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 are covered by the actuation plate 9 when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the actuation plate 9. The at least one actuation plate 9 therefore covers the functional unit 5 and the support element 2. In the embodiment shown, the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 cover the two actuation plates 9. There are therefore no additional panels or additional covers to be provided.

In the embodiment shown, the at least one actuation plate 9 is designed in two parts and has a support element 31 and a decorative element 32. The decorative element 32 is firmly attached to the support element 31. When looking in the direction of the surface normal F of the decorative element 32, the decorative element 32 completely covers the carrier element. Here, the decorative element 32 has an extension which is such that the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 are covered by the actuation plate 9 when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element 9.

In other embodiments, it is also conceivable that the at least one actuation plate is constructed in one piece.

In the embodiment shown, the front side of the actuation plate 9 or the decorative element 32, if present, is curved with a curvature around an axis of curvature educated. This is a convex curvature. The axis of curvature preferably runs parallel to the pivot axis S. In another embodiment, not shown here, the front side of the actuation plate 9 or the decorative element 32, if present, is designed as a flat surface.

The bearing element 6 defines a plane E, which in the installed position lies parallel to the visible side of a pre-wall. The pretext is the wall in which the actuation unit is installed. The support element 2 runs with an edge 33 or here also with the flange 48 parallel to the plane E. The pivot axis S runs parallel to said plane E. In the starting position, the front side 30 of the actuation plate 9 lies in such a way that a surface normal F rests The distance A seen on plane E between the front side 30 and the plane E becomes larger as the distance D from the pivot axis S increases. The distance A is therefore smaller near the pivot axis S than at a greater distance from the pivot axis S. This ensures that the front side 30 in the installed position comes to rest at an angle to the front side of a pre-wall.

In other words, the front side 30 is inclined at an angle α to the plane E. The angle α between the front side 30 of the actuation plate 9 and the plane E is in the starting position between 4° and 20°, in particular between 5° and 12° . e after the front side 30 has been formed, the distance A increases differently as the distance increases. In the case of the curved front side 30, the distance A increases variably as the distance D from the pivot axis S increases. If the front side 30 is flat, the distance A increases continuously as the distance D from the pivot axis S increases.

When the actuation plate 9 is actuated, it is pivoted about the pivot axis S, whereby the distance A becomes smaller.

In the installed position, the pivot axis S runs horizontally. The distance A is maximum at the end of the actuation plate 9 opposite the pivot axis S. The opposite end is preferably the lower end. This means that when the user looks at the actuation plate 9, he only notices a small gap between the pre-wall and the actuation plate 9 above the pivot axis S. The user does not notice the larger gap caused by the distance A because it is only visible from below.

When the actuation plate 9 is actuated, the back 11 of the actuation plate 9 comes into contact with the actuation lever 7 via a contact point. The pivot axis lies behind said plane E with respect to plane E. The contact point is in front of said plane E at the beginning of the actuation and shifts towards plane E with increasing actuation. Depending on the design of the actuating lever 7, the contact point moves behind the said plane E. In the embodiment shown, the actuating plate 9 is in contact with the actuating lever 7 via several contact points during actuation. The contact points lie below a horizontal plane H, which runs parallel to the pivot axis S, at right angles to the plane E and centrally through the actuation plate 9.

Based on Figure 12 The stop structure, which holds the actuation plate 9 or the actuation plates 9 in the starting position, will be explained in more detail below. The actuation plate 9 has a stop 34 on the actuation plate side with a corresponding stop surface 35. The functional unit 5 also has a stop 36 on the functional unit side with a corresponding stop surface 37. The two stops 35, 37 mentioned hit each other when the actuation plate 9 is in the starting position . If, as shown in the figures, there are two actuation plates 9, each of the actuation plates 9 preferably has a stop.

Furthermore, the actuation unit 1 also has at least one spring element 38. The spring element 38 is, for example, a leaf spring. The spring element 38 is arranged between the back 11 of the actuation plate 9 and the bearing element 6. The spring element 38 pushes the actuation plate 9 away from the bearing element 6. The pushing away is such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 can be brought into contact with one another and are pressed against one another.

Preferably, the functional unit-side stop 36 is mounted on the bearing element 6 so that it can be adjusted relative to the bearing element 6. This means that the relative position of the stop surface 37 is displaceable and the position of the stop surface 37 can be fixed. The actuation plate-side stop 34 is designed as a fixed stop.

In the embodiment shown, the functional unit-side stop 36 is adjustable in a stop guide 39 in the bearing element 6. For the adjustment of the stop 36, a stop adjustment screw 40 is also mounted in the bearing element 6 in such a way that the stop 36 on the functional unit side is activated when the Stop adjustment screw 40 is adjustable.

The stop guide 39 preferably projects from the side of the bearing element 6 that faces the actuation plate 9. The stop guide 39 provides a guide for the stop 36 on the functional unit side towards the actuation plate 9.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw 40 is rotatably and axially fixed in a receptacle 41 in the bearing element 6. The stop adjustment screw 40 engages with a thread in a corresponding thread on the functional unit side stop 36, whereby the functional unit side stop 36 is displaced when the stop adjustment screw 40 is rotated.

Preferably, the stop 34 on the actuation plate side is part of a hook 42 projecting from the back 11 of the actuation plate 9. Here the hook is part of the support element 31. The hook 42 is designed in such a way that during an assembly movement it is deflected relative to the stop 36 on the functional unit side and this to a certain extent crazy. In the deflected state, the hook 42 lies in such a way that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 lie laterally to one another, such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 are displaceable relative to one another. In the non-deflected state, the hook 42 lies in such a way that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 lie relative to one another in such a way that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 can be brought into contact with one another for the stop function.

The bearing element 6 preferably has a recess 43, the hook 42 being moved into the recess 43 during the actuating movement of the actuating plate from the starting position into the actuating position. REFERENCE SYMBOL LIST 1 Actuation unit 33 edge 2 Support element 34 stop on the actuator plate side 3 fastener 4 Storage recording 35 stop surface 5 Functional unit 36 functional unit side 6 Bearing element attack 7 Operating lever 37 stop surface 8th Push bar 38 Spring element 9 Flush plate 39 stop guide 10 Pivot bearing point 40 Stop adjustment screw 11 back 41 Recording 12 Bottom wall (support element) 42 Hook 43 recess 13 Floor wall (bearing element) 44 screw head 15 Reinforcing ribs 45 surveys 16 side walls 46 Drive structure 17 bearing journal 47 Operating surface 18 Warehouse opening 48 flange 19 rib 49 openings 20 recess 50 Compression spring 21 Locking element 51 Free cut 22 Latch mount 23 slit-like space A Distance 24 Wall area D distance 25 locking tab E level 26 locking recess F surface normals 27 Pivot bearing axle H Horizontal plane 28 Pivot bearing mount S Pivot axis 29 breakthrough 30 Front 31 Support element 32 Decor element

Claims (14)

Actuating unit (1) for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprising a functional unit (5) with a bearing element (6) and at least one actuation plate (9) for actuating a push rod (8) acting on the flushing valve, wherein the at least one actuation plate (9) is mounted on the functional unit (5) via at least one pivot bearing point (10) so that it can pivot about a pivot axis (S) from an initial position into a flushing position, wherein the bearing element (6) defines a plane (E) which, in the installed position, lies parallel to the visible side of a pre-wall, wherein the pivot axis (S) runs parallel to said plane (E), and wherein in the starting position the front side (30) of the actuation plate (9) lies such that a distance (A) seen in the direction of the surface normal (F) to the plane (E) between the front side (30) and the plane (E). increasing distance (D) from the pivot axis (S). Actuating unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the distance (A) increases continuously with increasing distance (D) from the pivot axis (S) or that the distance (A) increases with increasing distance (D) from the pivot axis (S ) seen to increase variably. Actuation unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the distance (A) becomes smaller when the actuation plate (9) is actuated; and or
that the angle (a) between the front side (30) of the actuation plate (9) and the plane (E) in the starting position is between 4° and 20°, in particular between 5° and 12°. Actuation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the installed position the pivot axis (S) runs horizontally and that the distance (A) at the end of the actuation plate (9) opposite the pivot axis (S) is maximum. Actuation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front side (30) of the at least one actuation plate (9) has an extension which is such that the functional unit (5) when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the actuation plate (9 ) are covered on the actuation plate (9). Actuation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one actuation plate (9) has a support element (31) and a decorative element (32), the decorative element (32) being firmly attached to the support element (31) and wherein when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element (32), the decorative element (32) completely covers the carrier element. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the decorative element (32) has an extension which is such that the functional unit (5) is covered by the actuating plate (9) when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element (9). . Actuation unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the front side of the actuation plate (9) or of the decorative element (32), if present, is designed to be curved with a curvature about an axis of curvature, the axis of curvature preferably being parallel to the pivot axis (S ) runs.; or that the front of the actuation plate (9) or any decorative element (32) is designed as a flat surface. Actuation unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation unit further comprises at least one actuation lever (7) mounted on the bearing element (6), the at least one actuation plate (9) resting with its rear side (11) on the at least one actuation lever (7). acts and pivots it relative to the bearing element (6) during the movement from the starting position into the flushing position, such that the pusher rod (8) can be actuated. Actuation unit (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that during actuation the actuation plate (9) is in contact with the actuation lever (7) via several contact points, the contact points lying below a horizontal plane (H) which is parallel to the pivot axis (S ), perpendicular to the plane (E) and running centrally through the actuation plate (9). Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 9 or 10, characterized in that a contact point between the actuating lever (7) and the actuating plate (9) lies in front of said plane (E) in the starting position or at the start of actuation and where the pivot axis (S) lies behind the said plane (E). Actuation unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation unit further comprises at least one support element (2), which is designed with at least one fastening element (3) for fastening the support element (2) and with a bearing holder (4), the functional unit (5) can be inserted into the bearing holder. Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one pivot bearing point (10) is arranged at an upper edge of the bearing element (6); and or that the actuation plate (9) extends upwards and downwards with respect to the pivot axis (S) when viewed in the installed position; and/or wherein the pivot axis (S) lies at a distance from the upper edge of the actuation plate, the distance corresponding to at most one fifth, in particular at most one eighth or one tenth, of the distance between the upper edge and the lower edge of the actuation plate. Sanitary arrangement comprising an actuation unit according to one of the preceding claims, a cistern with a flush valve and a pre-wall, the actuation unit being arranged with said plane (E) parallel to the visible side of the pre-wall.

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