EP4365381A2 - Actuating unit - Google Patents

Abstract

An actuating unit (1) for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises
a functional unit (5) with a bearing element (6)
and at least one actuating plate (9) for actuating a push rod (8) acting on the flush valve,
wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) is pivotably mounted on the functional unit (5) about a pivot axis (S) from a starting position into a rinsing position via at least one pivot bearing point (10),
wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) has a stop (34) on the actuating plate side with a corresponding stop surface (35) and the functional unit has a stop (36) on the functional unit side with a corresponding stop surface (37), wherein the two said stop surfaces (35, 37) abut one another when the actuating plate (9) is in the starting position,
wherein upon actuation of the at least one actuating plate (9), the two said stop surfaces are moved away from each other and
wherein, when the actuating plate (9) is in the starting position, the two said stop surfaces (35, 37) lie between the functional unit (5) and the at least one actuating plate (9).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

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

STATE OF THE ART

A large number of actuating units or actuating plates for flushing are known from the prior art. Such actuating units typically comprise two actuating buttons. One of the actuating buttons is used to initiate a full-volume flush and the other of the actuating buttons is used to initiate a partial-volume flush. The actuating buttons typically actuate push rods, which then mechanically actuate a flush valve in a cistern so that the flush can be initiated.

From the EP2 476 808 an actuating unit with a stop has become known. Although the actuating unit is designed according to the EP2 476 808 has an exceptionally aesthetic appearance and good adjustability of the actuating plate, the disadvantage is that the elements for the stop take up a lot of space and thus increase the thickness of the actuating unit.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Based on this prior art, the present invention is based on the object of specifying an actuating unit which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, an actuating unit is to be specified which is designed to be more compact.

This object is achieved by the subject matter of claim 1. Accordingly, a Actuating unit for actuating a flush valve in a cistern, a functional unit with a bearing element and at least one actuating plate for actuating a push rod acting on the flush valve. The at least one actuating plate is mounted on the functional unit via at least one pivot bearing point so that it can pivot about a pivot axis. The at least one actuating plate can pivot from a starting position into a flushing position and from the flushing position back into the starting position.

Furthermore, the actuating plate has a stop on the actuating plate side with a corresponding stop surface and the functional unit has a stop on the functional unit side with a corresponding stop surface, whereby the two mentioned stops or stop surfaces strike each other when the actuating plate is in the starting position.

When the at least one actuating plate is actuated, the two mentioned stop surfaces are moved away from each other. When the actuating plate is in the starting position, the two mentioned stop surfaces are located between the functional unit and the at least one actuating plate.

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

Particularly preferably, the two stop surfaces in the initial position are located between the bearing element of the functional unit and the at least one actuating plate.

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

When the actuator plate moves from the starting position to the flushing position, the two stops are moved relatively away from each other, as mentioned. When the actuator plate moves from the flushing position to the starting position, the two stops are moved relatively towards each other.

Preferably, the actuating unit further comprises at least one spring element.

The at least one spring element is arranged between the rear side of the actuating plate and the bearing element and presses the actuating 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 stop on the functional unit side is mounted on the bearing element so that it can be adjusted relative to the bearing element. This adjustability means that the position of the actuating plate can be adjusted in the initial position. Preferably, the stop on the actuating plate side is designed as a fixed or non-adjustable stop.

Preferably, the stop on the functional unit side is adjustably mounted in a stop guide in the bearing element and wherein a stop adjustment screw is also mounted in the bearing element such that the stop on the functional unit side 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 stop on the functional unit side are designed such that after the stop adjustment has been made, the stop on the functional unit side lies firmly in the stop guide.

Preferably, the stop guide protrudes from the side of the bearing element facing the actuating plate and provides a guide for the functional unit-side stop towards the actuating plate.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw is rotatable and axially fixed in a holder in the bearing element.

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

Preferably, the holder has two spring sections into which the stop adjustment screw can be clipped.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw has a screw head which is formed with a plurality of elevations so that the screw head can be well gripped can be.

The stop adjustment screw preferably has a drive structure via which the stop adjustment screw can be actuated 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 positioned such that the drive structure is accessible from the front, i.e. from the side of the actuating plate. In this variant, the actuating plate can be moved from the starting position into an assembly position so that the stop adjustment screw, which is located behind the actuating plate in the starting position, becomes accessible. This makes it very easy for an installer to align the actuating plate.

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

Preferably, the hook is designed such that it is deflected relative to the stop on the functional unit side during an assembly movement, wherein the hook in the deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces are laterally positioned relative to one another, such that the two stop surfaces are displaceable relative to one another, and wherein the hook in the non-deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces are positioned relative to one another in such a way that the two stop surfaces are capable of being brought into contact with one another.

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

Preferably, the bearing element has a recess, wherein the hook is moved into the recess during the actuating movement of the actuating plate from the starting position into the rinsing position.

When viewed in the installation position, the recess is located below the stop guide.

The bearing element preferably defines a plane which, in the installed position, is parallel to the visible side of a partition wall. The pivot axis runs parallel to said plane. In the initial position, the front side of the actuator plate is preferably positioned such that a distance between the front and the plane becomes larger with increasing distance from the swivel axis.

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 specified distance with increasing distance from the pivot axis, the actuation path of the actuation plate can be optimized for the actuation of the actuation lever. For example, a larger distance can provide a greater path than a smaller distance.

A further advantage of this configuration is that the angled arrangement provides the user with good signaling of the actuator plate.

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

Preferably, the distance becomes smaller when the actuation plate is operated.

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

Preferably, when viewed in the installation position, the pivot axis runs horizontally and the distance is maximum at the end of the actuating plate opposite the pivot axis. This means that the distance increases with increasing distance from the pivot axis.

When viewed in the installation position, the pivot axis is above the maximum distance. In other words, the actuator plate extends diagonally downwards from the pivot axis.

Preferably, the front side of the at least one actuating plate has an extension which is such that the functional unit, when looking in the direction of the Surface normals of the actuator plate are covered by the actuator plate.

In other words, at least one actuating plate covers the functional unit at the front. Therefore, no cover element is required.

Preferably, the at least one actuating plate has a carrier element and a decorative element, wherein the decorative element is firmly attached to the carrier element and wherein, when viewed in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element, the decorative element completely covers the carrier element.

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

Preferably, the decorative element has an extension which is such that the functional unit is covered when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element on the actuating plate.

Preferably, the front side of the actuating plate or of the decorative element, if present, is curved around a curvature axis, with the curvature axis preferably running parallel to the pivot axis. Alternatively, the front side of the actuating plate or of the decorative element, if 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 located at a distance from the upper edge of the actuating plate, wherein the distance corresponds 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 actuating plate. In other words, this means that the pivot axis is significantly closer to the upper edge than to the lower edge. The upper edge and the lower edge are preferably parallel to each other and parallel to the pivot axis.

Preferably, the actuating unit further comprises at least one actuating lever mounted on the bearing element. The at least one actuating plate acts with its rear side on the at least one actuating 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.

Preferably, during actuation, the actuating plate is in contact with the actuating lever via a plurality of contact points, wherein the contact points are located below a horizontal plane which runs parallel to the pivot axis, perpendicular to the plane and centrally through the actuating plate.

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

For installation in a cistern or a pre-wall, the operating unit can be connected directly to the functional unit in 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 present for this purpose, as described below. In this further variant, the actuating 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 holder, wherein the functional unit can be inserted into the bearing holder. The support element preferably lies with one edge parallel to said plane. The at least one actuating plate acts with its rear side on the at least one actuating lever and pivots it in the direction of the support element when moving from the starting position to the flushing position, such that said push rod can be actuated.

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

If the support element is present, the functions "Connection of the actuator to a cistern or a pre-wall" and "Movement of the The elements intended for flush activation, such as the actuating plate and actuating lever, are mechanically decoupled from one another. The support element is intended for the mounting of the actuating unit and the functional unit is intended for the movement of the elements intended for flush activation. This decoupling has the advantage that the support element can be designed for attachment to a cistern or a prefabricated wall and for the mounting of the actuating unit as a whole and that the actuating unit can be designed for the movement of the elements intended for flush activation or for the activation of the flush function.

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

In addition, the functional unit offers the advantage of an actuator plate bearing, which is independent of the fastening 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 the flush can therefore be triggered reliably.

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 a greater rigidity, in particular a greater bending rigidity and/or a greater torsional rigidity, than the support element.

This means that the support element is easier to deform and therefore easier to adapt to the actual assembly situation. The functional unit is less easily deformed, 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 such that the bearing element of the functional unit has greater rigidity, in particular greater bending rigidity and/or greater torsional rigidity, than the support element.

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

Preferably, the bearing element, when connected to the bearing holder, lies essentially completely in the bearing holder and does not protrude from the bearing holder. This makes it possible to create a particularly compact structure.

Preferably, the bearing receptacle in the support element is delimited by a base wall and side walls protruding from the base wall. Preferably, the bearing receptacle is essentially cuboid-shaped, wherein the depth of the bearing receptacle is many times smaller than the width and length of the bearing receptacle.

Preferably, the base wall has openings through which the push rods protrude. The push rods extend from the rear through the bearing holder and protrude from the bearing holder at the front.

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

In one variant, the support element has at least two opposing bearing openings and the functional unit has a fixed bearing pin and a spring-loaded bearing pin, wherein the bearing pins engage in the bearing openings for the fixed mounting of 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, wherein the bearing pins engage in the bearing openings for the fixed mounting of the functional unit in the bearing holder.

The bearing openings or the bearing journals are located opposite each other so that between the bearing openings or the bearing pins on the support element, the functional unit comes to rest.

Preferably, there are a total of four locking elements.

Preferably, the opposing bearing openings are each arranged in such a way that their central axes running through the middle of the bearing openings run parallel to each other, in particular collinear to each other.

Preferably, the spring-loaded bearing pin has an actuating surface to which the installer can attach a tool during maintenance work.

Preferably, the bearing element has at least one protruding 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 is located in lateral edge regions of the bearing receptacle and the bearing element of the functional unit has at least one cutout such that when the bearing element is inserted, the at least one fastening element is still accessible and operable.

This allows the fastening element to be operated when the functional unit is inserted. For example, it can be tightened, loosened or operated in some other way.

Preferably, the fastening elements are 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 locking receptacle. 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 Support element is made 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 region. In the locking position, the wall region protrudes into the slot-like space.

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

Preferably, the locking element is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points in relation to the bearing mount. In the installed position, the locking element is therefore located below the pivot bearing points and is thus accessible from below.

Preferably, the locking element is arranged at a distance from the rear side of the actuating plate, in particular when the latter is in the starting position, wherein the distance creates a gap through which the locking element can be gripped.

Preferably, the locking element is arranged on an outer edge of the bearing element.

Preferably, the locking element has a locking tab, via which the locking element engages in a locking recess on the support element in the locking position and/or in the release position. In other variants, the support element has a locking tab, via which the locking element engages in a locking recess on the locking element in the locking position and/or in the release position.

Preferably, the locking element is moved from the release position to 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 receiver are in the locking position engage with each other in such a way that movement of the bearing element against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin is impossible.

Preferably, there are two pivot bearing points arranged at a distance from each other per actuating plate. Preferably, the pivot bearing points for an actuating plate are arranged as far apart from each other as possible.

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

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

Preferably, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the bearing element and the pivot bearing receptacle is arranged on the actuating plate. Alternatively, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the actuating 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 actuating plate extends upwards and downwards with respect to the pivot axis when viewed in the installation position. The upward extension is significantly smaller than the downward extension.

Preferably, the swivel axis is located inside the bearing holder when the functional unit is inserted into the bearing holder.

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

Preferably, each of the actuating plates has a stop such that the front sides of the actuating 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 interacting with the flush valve, and/or
• that at least one spring element is arranged on the bearing element, which applies a spring force to the actuating 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 levers.

A sanitary arrangement comprising an actuating unit as described above, a cistern with a flush valve and a pre-wall, wherein the actuating unit is arranged with the 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 are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be interpreted as limiting. In the drawings:

Fig.1

a perspective view of a partially exploded actuating 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 actuator 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 actuating unit according to the preceding figures;

Fig.7

a perspective view of the actuating 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 of the Actuator unit according to the previous Figures 7 and 8th ;

Fig.10

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

Fig. 11

the representation according to Figure 10 in the flush position; and

Fig. 12

a rear view and a detailed view of the actuating 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 actuating unit according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention.

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

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, there are two fastening elements 3. With the at least one fastening element 3, the support element 2 can be fastened to a cistern or a front wall or another structure. The support element 2 also has a bearing receptacle 4. The support element 2 has a base wall 12. Reinforcing ribs 15 and side walls 16 extend from the base wall 12 on the peripheral side. The bearing receptacle 4 in the support element 2 is delimited by the aforementioned base wall 12 and by side walls 16 protruding from the base wall 12. In the embodiment shown, the bearing receptacle 6 is essentially cuboid-shaped. The depth of the bearing receptacle 6 is many times smaller than the width and length of the bearing receptacle 6. In the embodiment shown, a flange 48 also extends away from the side walls 16. The flanges 48 have the advantage that gaps, such as those that may 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 actuate a flush 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 actuating lever 7 is moved by the actuating plate 9. This means that the at least one actuating plate 9 acts with its rear side 11 on the at least one actuating lever 7 and pivots it in the direction of the support element 2 when moving from the starting position to the rinsing 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 actuating 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 for each actuating plate 9. The pivot bearing points 10 are preferably located at the greatest possible distance from one another. The preferred design of the pivot bearing points 10 is explained in detail below.

Preferably, the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 has a greater rigidity, in particular a greater bending rigidity and/or a greater torsional rigidity, than the support element 2. As a result, forces which act when the at least one actuating plate is actuated can be well 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 in the assembled state lies essentially completely in the bearing receptacle 4. This is shown 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 lying opposite one another. There are a total of four bearing 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 pins are arranged, each with a fixed and a spring-loaded bearing pin. To firmly support 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 subjected to 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 protruding from the bearing element 6. When the support element 2 is connected to 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 is located in lateral edge areas of the bearing holder 4. Furthermore, the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 has at least one cutout 51. Here, one cutout 51 is arranged for each fastening element 3. The at least one cutout 51 is arranged in such a way that when the bearing element 6 is inserted, the at least one fastening element 3 is still accessible and operable.

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 locking holder 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 holder 22, to a locking position, in which the locking element 21 is in firm engagement with the locking holder 22. The firm engagement between the locking element 21 and the locking holder 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 region 24 protrudes into the slot-like space 23.

When the actuating unit 1 is in the installed position, the locking element 21 is covered by at least one actuating plate 9 and is therefore not visible.

The locking element 21 is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points 10 with respect to the bearing holder 4. When viewed in the installed position, the locking element 21 is located below the pivot bearing points 10.

Preferably, the locking element 21 is arranged at a distance from the rear side 11 of the actuating plate 9, especially when the latter is in the initial position. This is evident, for example, from the Figure 12 or from the side sections. 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 are in engagement with one another in the locking position in such a way that a movement of the bearing element 6 against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin 17 is impossible.

Of the Figure 5 and other figures, the structure of the pivot bearing points 10 is apparent. Preferably, two pivot bearing points 10 arranged at a distance from one another are present per actuating 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 holder 28 also has an opening 29 which is designed such that the pivot bearing axis 27 can be inserted into the pivot bearing holder 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 actuating plates 9 to the functional unit 5 is easier.

In the embodiment shown, the pivot bearing axis 27 is arranged on the bearing element 6 and the pivot bearing holder 28 is arranged on the actuating 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 swivel axis S is located inside the bearing holder 4. This can be seen from the sectional views of the Figures 6 , 10 and 11 visible.

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

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

In the embodiment shown, the at least one actuating plate 9 is designed in two parts and has a carrier element 31 and a decorative element 32. The decorative element 32 is firmly attached to the carrier 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 when looking in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element 9 on the actuating plate 9.

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

In the embodiment shown, the front side of the actuating plate 9 or of the optionally present decorative element 32 is curved with a curvature around a curvature axis This is a convex curvature. The curvature axis preferably runs parallel to the pivot axis S. In another embodiment not shown here, the front side of the actuating plate 9 or of the optionally present decorative element 32 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 partition wall. The partition wall is the wall in which the actuating 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 the said plane E. In the initial position, the front side 30 of the actuating plate 9 is positioned such that a distance A between the front side 30 and the plane E, viewed in the surface normal F to the plane E, increases with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S. 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, lies at an angle to the front side of a partition 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 actuating plate 9 and the plane E is in the initial position between 4° and 20°, in particular between 5° and 12°.

Depending on the design of the front side 30, the distance A increases differently with increasing distance. With the curved front side 30, the distance A increases variably with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S. With a flat design of the front side 30, the distance A increases continuously with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S.

When the actuating 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 actuating plate 9 opposite the pivot axis S. The opposite end is preferably the lower end. This means that when looking at the actuating plate 9, the user only notices a small gap between the front wall and the actuating plate 9 above the pivot axis S. The user does not notice the gap, which is larger due to the distance A, since this is only visible from below.

When the actuating plate 9 is actuated, the rear side 11 of the actuating plate 9 comes into contact with the actuating lever 7 via a contact point. The pivot axis lies behind the said plane E with respect to the plane E. The contact point lies in front of the said plane E at the beginning of the actuation and moves towards the plane E as the actuation progresses. Depending on the design of the actuating lever 7, the contact point moves behind the said plane E. In the embodiment shown, when actuated, the actuating plate 9 is in contact with the actuating lever 7 via several contact points. 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 actuating plate 9.

Based on Figure 12 The stop structure which holds the actuating plate 9 or the actuating plates 9 in the starting position is explained in more detail below. The actuating plate 9 has a stop 34 on the actuating 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 actuating plate 9 is in the starting position. If, as shown in the figures, two actuating plates 9 are present, each of the actuating plates 9 preferably has a stop.

The actuating 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 rear side 11 of the actuating plate 9 and the bearing element 6. The spring element 38 presses the actuating plate 9 away from the bearing element 6. The pressing 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 stop 36 on the functional unit side 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 stop 34 on the actuating plate side is designed as a fixed stop.

In the embodiment shown, the stop 36 on the functional unit side is adjustably mounted in a stop guide 39 in the bearing element 6. For adjusting the stop 36, a stop adjustment screw 40 is also provided in the bearing element 6 in such a way that mounted so that the stop 36 on the functional unit side can be adjusted by operating the stop adjustment screw 40.

Preferably, the stop guide 39 protrudes from the side of the bearing element 6 that faces the actuating plate 9. The stop guide 39 provides a guide for the functional unit-side stop 36 toward the actuating plate 9.

Preferably, the stop adjustment screw 40 is rotatable 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 stop 36 on the functional unit side, whereby the stop 36 on the functional unit side is displaced when the stop adjustment screw 40 is rotated.

Preferably, the stop 34 on the actuating plate side is part of a hook 42 protruding from the rear side 11 of the actuating plate 9. Here, the hook is part of the carrier element 31. The hook 42 is designed in such a way that it is deflected relative to the stop 36 on the functional unit side during an assembly movement and, to a certain extent, snaps over it. In the deflected state, the hook 42 is positioned in such a way that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 are laterally positioned relative to one another, such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 can be moved relative to one another. In the non-deflected state, the hook 42 is positioned in such a way that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 are positioned 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.

Preferably, the bearing element 6 has a recess 43, wherein the hook 42 is moved into the recess 43 during the actuating movement of the actuating plate from the starting position into the actuating position.

LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

1 Actuator unit 34 actuator plate side stop 2 Support element 3 Fastener 35 Stop surface 4 Stock recording 36 functional unit side stop 5 Functional unit 6 Bearing element 37 Stop surface 7 Operating lever 38 Spring element 8th Push rod 39 Stop guide 9 Actuator plate 40 Stop adjustment screw 10 Pivot bearing point 41 Recording 11 back 42 Hook 12 Floor wall (support element) 43 Recess 44 Screw head 13 Floor wall (bearing element) 45 Surveys 15 Reinforcing ribs 46 Drive structure 16 side walls 47 Actuating surface 17 Bearing journal 48 flange 18 Warehouse opening 49 openings 19 rib 50 Compression spring 20 Recess 51 Free cut 21 Locking element 52 Threaded opening 22 Latch holder 23 slit-like space A Distance 24 Wall area D distance 25 Locking tab E level 26 Recess F Surface normal 27 Pivot bearing axis H Horizontal plane 28 Swivel bearing mount S Swivel axis 29 breakthrough 30 Front 31 Support element 32 Decorative element 33 edge

Claims (11)

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 actuating plate (9) for actuating a push rod (8) acting on the flush valve, wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) is pivotably mounted on the functional unit (5) about a pivot axis (S) from a starting position into a rinsing position via at least one pivot bearing point (10), wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) has a stop (34) on the actuating plate side with a corresponding stop surface (35) and the functional unit has a stop (36) on the functional unit side with a corresponding stop surface (37), wherein the two said stop surfaces (35, 37) abut one another when the actuating plate (9) is in the starting position, wherein upon actuation of the at least one actuating plate (9), the two said stop surfaces are moved away from each other and wherein, when the actuating plate (9) is in the starting position, the two said stop surfaces (35, 37) lie between the functional unit (5) and the at least one actuating plate (9). Actuating unit according to claim 1, characterized in that during the movement of the at least one actuating plate (9) from the starting position into the rinsing position, the stop (34) on the actuating plate side is moved away from the fixed stop (36) on the functional unit side. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the actuating unit (1) further comprises at least one spring element (38) which is arranged between the rear side (11) of the actuating plate (9) and the bearing element (6) and presses the actuating plate (9) away from the bearing element (6) in such a way that the two stop surfaces (35, 37) can be brought into contact with one another. Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stop (36) on the functional unit side is mounted on the bearing element (6) so as to be adjustable relative to the bearing element (6) and/or that the stop (34) on the actuating plate side is designed as a fixed or non-adjustable stop. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the functional unit-side stop (36) is adjustably mounted in a stop guide (39) in the bearing element (6) and wherein a stop adjustment screw (40) is further mounted in the bearing element (6) such that the functional unit-side stop (36) is adjustable upon actuation of the stop adjustment screw (40). Actuating unit according to claim 5, characterized in that the stop guide (39) protrudes from the side of the bearing element (6) facing the actuating plate (9) and provides a guide for the functional unit-side stop (36) towards the actuating plate (9). Actuating unit (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the stop adjustment screw (40) is rotatably and axially fixedly mounted in a receptacle (41) in the bearing element (6). Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the stop (36) on the functional unit side has a threaded opening (52) into which the thread of the stop adjustment screw (40) engages. Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stop (34) on the actuating plate side is part of a hook (42) protruding from the rear side (11) of the actuating plate (9). Actuating unit (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the hook (42) is designed such that it is deflected relative to the stop (36) on the functional unit side during an assembly movement, wherein the hook (42) in the deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces (35, 37) are laterally positioned relative to one another, such that the two stop surfaces (35, 37) are displaceable relative to one another, and wherein the hook (42) in the non-deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces (35, 37) are positioned relative to one another such that the two Stop surfaces (35, 37) can be brought into contact with each other. Actuating unit (1) according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that the bearing element (6) has a recess (43), wherein the hook (42) is moved into the recess (43) during the actuating movement of the actuating plate from the starting position into the rinsing position.

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