ES2647594T3 - Drinking water installation with a leakage protection provision - Google Patents

Abstract

Installation of drinking water with a leakage protection arrangement, containing (a) an accessory (14, 16, 18, 20; 230; 234, 236; 312; 412) mounted in the installation of drinking water before one or more intake points (306, 308), (b) a turbine or other flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300), which is arranged or arranged in the accessory and that generates signals representing the flow to through the accessory, (c) a closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418) arranged in the accessory to cut off the water supply in the drinking water installation; and (d) a control device (10; 210; 320; 420), with a signal processing device that receives signals from the turbine or other flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300) , to detect atypical and / or unwanted flow conditions in the water installation and to operate the closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418); wherein (e) the control device (10; 210; 320; 420) has a communication unit that allows the leakage protection arrangement to be remotely adjusted by means of a user terminal equipment with a communication unit, ( f) a central network server is provided with a computer program, by means of which the communication units of the user terminal equipment and the communication units of the control device (10; 210; 320; 420), and (g) are communicated ) It is provided in the installation of drinking water, before one or more points of intake (306, 308), at least one additional accessory (14, 16, 18, 20; 234, 236; 312; 412) with a device control with a communication unit and with a flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300) and a closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418); characterized in that (h) with the communication unit of the control device a communication of the control devices (10; 210; 320; 420) can be established additionally with each other and with the central server, (i) being provided one of the accessories (20; 234, 236; 254) with control device (10) for central arrangement in the water supply area of a water installation and all other accessories (14, 16, 18, 230; 312; 412) with control device to install them hydraulically behind, and (j) determining the control device of the accessory to be centrally arranged in the water supply area, by communicating the control devices with each other, if a very large flow rate has to be be attributed to the simultaneous extraction of water at several intake points or a loss of water at only one point.

Description

Drinking water installation with a leakage protection provision

Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a drinking water installation according to the preamble of the claim. [0002] A provision of this type is used especially in domestic water installations. Drinking water made available by a supply pipe for a building is filtered and regulated at a uniform pressure. When water is drawn from an intake point, the flow state changes. Water flows through the arrangement for a short time. Atypical flow states are understood to be states that do not occur during normal operation. An example of such flow states is a small leak. A small leak like this appears for example by stinging. If a leak appears, a small amount of water constantly flows. Another example of such atypical flow states is the breakage of a water pipe. In this case very large amounts of water flow in a very short time. The protection against leaks is the detection of such atypical flow states and the taking of appropriate measures. In particular, in case of leakage, the closing mechanism is closed. [0003] There are also unwanted flow states. These occur especially in case of stagnation. When water is not extracted for a prolonged period of time, the water stagnates. Then germs can form. This is not desirable. [0004] The provisions for protection against leaks are not about monitoring water consumption, but about detecting flow states without significantly intervening in hydraulics. In other words: the consumer can consume as much water as he wants. Only if there is a state of atypical or unwanted flow is the hydraulics intervened and the closing mechanism is activated.

Current state of the art

[0005] Document DE 10 2009 045 150 B3 discloses a water supply device in which a central closing mechanism is provided, which opens when a sensor indicates the presence of a person. In this device, the water supply is permanently closed. Devices of this type are very prone to breakdowns and work only when there is no water consumer connected, such as a heating installation, that automatically fills water. [0006] US 2012/0026004 A1 discloses a provision to monitor water consumption in a house. The arrangement comprises a flow meter whose signals are transmitted to an internal control device of the house. If the water consumption of a connected device exceeds the average water consumption, a message is transmitted to the owner of the house. This can respond to the message in the sense that a closing mechanism is operated, so that no more water is consumed. The closing mechanism and the flow meter are arranged in different housings in different places and have their own means of communication in each case. This is expensive. The arrangement does not allow conveniently limiting the damage in case of a pipe breakage, because the closing mechanism has to be activated by hand. [0007] WO2010 / 039045A1 discloses a water management system with a valve and a flow meter in the water pipe, which gradually throttles the water supply when the water consumption exceeds a limit value. In case of leakage the valve is closed. During the water supply throttling, the hydraulics are modified. There is a danger of unwanted noise. The water management system is intended only for, in each case, a building. [0008] GB 2 360 365 A discloses a leakage protection arrangement with a shut-off valve that can be activated automatically. The arrangement comprises a shut-off valve with a flow meter in the main pipe. In case of leakage, the entire main pipe is closed. This works well in small single-family buildings, but is practically unsuitable for multi-family homes, because threshold values have to be set, which are very high to allow simultaneous consumption of water at different intake points without immediately assuming the case of leakage. [0009] Document DE 10 2005 00 009 A1 discloses a filter arrangement that has integrated leak protection. The arrangement uses a reversible flow filter and a turbine disposed immediately before the reversible flow filter. Each passage of water through the filter is detected and evaluated with the turbine. The hydraulic conditions at the point of intake remain unchanged at all times. Document DE 10 2007 026 162 A1 discloses a pressure reducer with means that measure the flow. When a leak is detected, the pressure reducer is closed. Document DE 20 2008 003 055 U1 discloses a modular pressure reducer-filter kit in which flow measuring means can be used for leakage protection. [0010] The known leakage protection arrangements are installed alone or in combination with pressure reducers and / or filters in the water inlet of the house for the supply of drinking water. Depending on the consumption habits at the intake points, maximum circulation speeds are adjusted. This works well for small buildings, for example single-family homes. [0011] In larger buildings, such as multi-family homes or public buildings, with a large number of intake points, it is common for water to be extracted at several intake points simultaneously. In this context, circulation speeds of 80 l / min or more are possible. The maximum circulation speed must be set correspondingly high. When water damage occurs due to the rupture of a pipe,

These are not discovered until it is too late and the damage is great. "Mini-leaks" are difficult to locate, especially in large buildings. [0012] In the so-called holiday switching, the tolerance of a device can be set to a lower value. The neighbors of the building are absent and the device is adjusted so that each flow above a small value is interpreted as leakage. In this case, a leak is detected very soon. A holiday commutation is practically not possible in a multi-family home, because there is almost always someone in the building who can draw water. [0013] The adjustment of the values, for example maximum circulation speeds, holiday switching and the like, is done by the installer at the location of the leakage device at the water inlet of the house, which is usually located in the basement.

Description of the invention

[0014] The objective of the invention is to improve and simplify the protection against leaks in buildings without modifying the hydraulic conditions at the point of intake. According to the invention, the objective is achieved by means of a drinking water installation with the identifying characteristics of claim 1. In this context, it is provided that the control devices have a communication unit that allows the leakage protection arrangement to be remotely adjusted. by means of a user terminal equipment with a communication unit. At the same time, a central network server with a computer program is provided, by means of which the communication units of the user terminal equipment and the communication units of the control devices are communicated. [0015] With such an arrangement, the user terminal equipment is separated in the space of the leakage protection arrangement. The user terminal equipment can be configured with a surface that is easy to use and / or more expensive. At the same time, means can be provided for displaying and adjusting parameters and / or for generating command instructions in the user terminal equipment. In particular, equipment whose handling is familiar even to a layman can be used. [0016] In the invention it is provided that in the installation of drinking water, before one or more points of intake, at least one additional accessory is provided with a control device and a flow meter and a closing mechanism; and that with the communication unit additional communication of the control devices can be established with each other and with the central server. [0017] In this way, each take point or each set of take points, for example in a habitable unit, receives its own leak protection accessory with its own control device, which can be activated individually. Normally, the inhabitants of a house are not familiar with water facilities. Therefore, each leak protection accessory has a communication unit that allows control from the outside. For example, the central server can be accessible to the inhabitants of the house or its installer. The leak protection parameters suitable for the home in question can be individually set on the server, for example by an application on a mobile terminal equipment (App) connected to the server via the Internet or a mobile radio network. Additionally, adjustments can also be made directly to the control unit by means of a remote control, a keyboard, a touch screen or a control button. This is particularly convenient in the case of a new installation or maintenance, when the installer is very close to the device. [0018] The communication units, the user terminal equipment and the central server communicate with each other preferably via the Internet or another suitable network. The homeowner or his installer can, for example, call through the Internet a portal through which the parameters can be adjusted. The settings can in particular be stored on the server. In case of failure of the leakage provision or one of the control devices, the data is retained. The signals are advantageously sent without further processing directly to the server. Then, the control device can be carried out in a very economical way and does not need its own logic or expensive software. All data processing, or at least most of it, is performed on the server. Since the server receives data from a plurality of leakage protection provisions, these data can also be fully evaluated and statistics created, if necessary with the consent of the inhabitant and / or anonymously. In this way, new quality control possibilities for their devices are opened for the manufacturer or the service provider. [0019] The central server can arrange it and administer it in particular the manufacturer or an administrator. It communicates not only with the control devices of a single building, but of all buildings with adequate leak protection provisions. This has the advantage that on-site control devices can have comparatively simple equipment. The data and software found on the central server can undergo regular maintenance with little expense from the manufacturer. An on-site update by the user or his installer is not necessary. The communication through the server and with it is configured in particular in such a way that parameters are adjusted and evaluations are carried out. However, even if the Internet fails, the control devices still work. In this case, the parameters can also be adjusted by hand on the device. [0020] If a leak is detected, the closing mechanism closes automatically. Additionally, the server can send a message directly to a communication device of the homeowner or his installer. For example, an automatic email can be generated and sent or a short message (SMS) can be sent to a phone or smartphone.

[0021] In a particularly preferred configuration of the invention it is provided that the communication units and the user terminal equipment present a transceiver for wireless communication via a LAN, WLAN, mobile radio network or other wireless network. This prevents wiring, and the installation can be carried out in the customary manner by the installer who deals with the installations in the field of drinking water alone. [0022] In a particularly economical configuration of the control device it is provided that the transmitter of the control device for communication via WLAN, mobile radiotelephony network or other wireless communication network is arranged in a separate device, which can be connected in a disconnectable manner to the communication unit. The control device itself then has a comparatively simple design, does not need a full keyboard and can be economically produced. The separate device, for example a transceiver for a WLAN network, is connected to the control unit only if it is not possible to make available a suitable connection box for a cable connection. The separate device may have a complete keyboard or a touch screen for entering an identification code or the like, which are generally not necessary for the control device. [0023] Alternatively, the communication can be carried out, at least partially, through an electrical network. For this purpose, a converter can be used, such as the one offered by Devolo AG on the website www.devolo.de. The converter is connected to the control unit with a cable and plugged into an outlet. The transmission of signals is then carried out in a known manner through the electrical network to the Internet connection, which establishes communication with the Internet. Especially in buildings that do not have WLAN or any Internet connection in the area, for example the basement, where the accessory has to be connected to the control unit, this is a convenient option easy to use also for the installer. In the technical and supply rooms and in the basements there is also usually a power outlet. [0024] In a particularly economical configuration of the invention it is provided that the control devices have the same design and, via the Internet or other suitable network, are connected wirelessly to a common central server, in which the device is provided. software necessary for the evaluation of the signals received from the accessory and for the control of the accessory. Different applications require different accessories. However, the control device can in any case have the same design for all accessories. This makes it possible for all components to be part of a modular kit, which includes:

(TO)

control apparatus;

(B)

accessories with flow meter and closing mechanism with pressure reducer or with a combination of pressure reducer-filter;

(C)

accessories with flow meter and closing mechanism without pressure reducer and without pressure reducer-filter combination;

(D)

accessories with flow meter and closing mechanism with connection to a drain;

(AND)

humidity sensors [0025] The user terminal equipment may be formed by usual mobile radiotelephony terminal equipment with Internet connection and with suitable application software. Users are already familiar with this type of equipment and can handle the equipment and software without additional training. [0026] Flow meters are usually formed by a turbine, from whose rotation speed and whose number of revolutions the circulation speed and the flow rate can be calculated. However, other flow meters, for example ultrasonic meters, for determining a flow rate are also imaginable. It is not appropriate to use only one pressure sensor, since it only measures the pressure, but not the circulation speed, and makes a closure necessary during the measurement. [0027] Preferably, at least one of the accessories additionally has a pressure sensor and / or an additional temperature sensor. The pressure drop behind the accessory can be measured with the pressure sensor. To this end, the water supply is closed with the closing mechanism in a period of time in which it is unlikely that water will be extracted from an intake point, for example at a late hour at night. Before and after the closing time, the pressure is determined with the pressure sensor. In case of a pressure drop it can be assumed that there is a leak. The use of a pressure sensor also allows the detection of very small leaks, which cannot be detected without further resistance by starting a turbine. With a temperature sensor, unwanted temperatures can be monitored and avoided, for example temperatures at which germs could be formed, for example Legionella. [0028] In another advantageous configuration of the invention, an additional control device is provided, which receives signals from a sensor with which rainwater or water can be detected from sources other than the monitored water installation, for example from a pool. The sensor can be placed on the floor of the monitored spaces and in other critical areas. If the appearance of water is detected, this situation can be transmitted through the control device exactly like any other leak. In this case, no pipes can be closed, but the competent persons can be informed immediately, for example by email or SMS, of the appearance of water and, if appropriate, take appropriate measures. According to the invention, one of the accessories with control apparatus is centrally arranged in the water supply area of the water installation, and all other accessories with control apparatus are installed hydraulically behind. Therefore, each water passage is recorded and evaluated once in the central control device (master) and in the local control device (slave). By communicating the devices with each other, the central control device can determine whether a very large flow rate must be attributed to the simultaneous extraction of water at several intake points or to a loss of water at only one point. In addition, there is the possibility of providing the central leak protection accessory with a reducer

of pressure or a combination of pressure reducer-filter, which are not necessary in the individual connections of the houses. [0029] The use of a plurality of local leakage protection accessories prevents in most cases also that the water supply has to be interrupted for all the intake points or groups of intake points when a leak appears. The closing required in case of a leak can be limited locally. [0030] In addition, it may be advantageous if several accessories are connected hydraulically in series with control apparatus and that a maximum circulation speed is set for each accessory in which a closure is made, the value being set for the maximum circulation speed adjusted to the smallest value of the series for the accessory furthest from the water supply, and adjusted to a higher value in the hydraulically installed accessories before according to the position in the series and the permissible flow rates at the intermediate intake points. [0031] If there is an especially large number of take points in a unit, a comparatively large maximum circulation speed must be adjusted. In this case, the damage produced will be difficult to limit. The use of several accessories allows, on the one hand, to adjust to maximum values the maximum circulation speeds towards the end, because they monitor the circulation of fewer accessories. The front accessory adjusts to a greater maximum circulation, but by means of the control device it can be controlled in such a way that it checks first or has it checked at the central server if the circulation is distributed between the accessories located behind or if it is caused exclusively for the area monitored by this accessory. Only in the latter case is a closure necessary. As in the case of the use of a branched arrangement, in this case it is also more easily possible to locate the cause of the leak. In addition, the closure can be performed in a more selective manner. In this serial connection, a control device serves as both master and slave. The control device is usually part of the accessory that is closer to the water supply. [0032] Data with the circulation speeds in each control device can also be stored in a dynamic database on the central server. In this case it is possible to determine whether a high total circulation speed in the water inlet is to be attributed to a usual water withdrawal at several intake points or to the breakage of a pipe. Correspondingly, the tolerance of the accessory in the water inlet can be set to a low value. In case of higher values, it is first checked where they come from, before closing for the entire building. Only if a correspondingly high total take is not recorded on the slaves, is the closing performed. [0033] In particularly large pipes with a large volumetric flow, an fitting can be provided in which the current is divided into several parallel partial currents, which are recorded and evaluated separately with their own flow meters and then assembled again. This reduces flow resistance and pressure loss. Depending on the application case, two, three or even more partial currents may be provided. The accessory is designed in such a way that the current flows from a common input in parallel partial currents, through different flow meters, to a common output. The control device is configured in such a way that the signals of the registered currents are identified as belonging to one device. It is then possible to add the currents by means of a suitable algorithm. [0034] Particularly large water installations with thick pipes require comparatively slow turbines for flow measurement. These turbines have a great starting resistance. Volumetric flows caused by micro-leaks can flow through the turbine without causing rotation. Correspondingly, they are not detected at all. To solve this problem, an accessory is provided in which a reflux inhibitor, a clapper or other negligible dynamic resistance is provided in the case of large flow rates and the current is conducted, upstream with respect to the resistance, through a branch in which, in addition to the first flow meter of the main conduit, a second flow meter is provided which is considerably more sensitive than the first flow meter and can detect currents too small to overcome resistance. [0035] In case of large circulation speeds, the resistance is overcome without problems. The reflux inhibitor opens and the current is detected with the first flow meter of the main pipe in the usual way. In case of small circulation speeds, such as those caused for example by a micro-leak, the resistance does not expire. The reflux inhibitor, for example, remains closed. Then the current is conducted through the branch. In the branch is a second flow meter. The second flow meter has a lower starting resistance and is considerably more sensitive than the first flow meter. With the second flow meter, circulation speeds that cannot be detected with the first flow meter are taken into account. [0036] By recording the flow states in the installations connected to the thick pipe, it can be determined whether an eventual leak is caused by the thick pipe or in one of the facilities located behind. [0037] In practice, the main supply pipe of a larger water installation should be avoided as far as possible. Such a closure affects a very large number of consumers. Although no water is extracted, the circulation speeds are subject to certain fluctuations. Since the micro-leaks are about states that are within the fluctuation range, it is therefore convenient to store the detection of a micro-leak first. Until several events appear one after another, a warning is not generated. The minimum number of events required for a warning can be set so that it can be adjusted. [0038] The detection of micro-leaks in pipes with a particularly large thickness has the advantage that it is possible to avoid many pipe breaks with considerably more serious consequences than a micro-leak. A pipe breakage caused by weakness of the material, rust or similar is frequently announced with leaks

minors In this way, the weakness of the material can be found and if necessary remedied in a timely manner before a pipe breakage. [0039] There are applications in which for a certain time the highest possible circulation speed is desired, while at other times no water has to flow. Such applications include in particular the filling of large closed water tanks, such as swimming pools, fountains or aquariums. For this purpose a deactivation of the leakage protection is planned during this period of time. For all other time slots, the maximum circulation speed can be switched to a very low value. The deactivation can also be carried out not only in the control device itself, but also through an application in a mobile terminal equipment. [0040] The history of consumption in the various accessories can be recorded and evaluated. From the history of consumption an assignment can be made to certain types of consumption. Thus, for example, an accessory in which only a flow rate of at most 10 l / min is regularly extracted can be classified into a corresponding class. The maximum circulation speed to be adjusted can then be adjusted to a value corresponding to this consumption class. This makes it possible to adapt the maximum circulation speed to a value as low as possible without limiting the consumer and without causing unintended closures. The lowest possible value setting for maximum circulation speed is desirable to limit maximum damage in case of leakage. From the history of consumption, time spaces can be determined in which periodically no water is extracted. These time slots can then be used for the detection of micro-leaks with a closure and a pressure measurement. [0041] As already described, in the case of dwellings located in multifamily buildings, it is advisable to provide a leak protection of their own for each dwelling. However, installing a leak protection accessory in the home requires some effort, due to the reduced space conditions. In addition to a leak protection accessory, other accessories are usually provided, such as water meters, filters or pressure reducers. Therefore, the installation is complex and requires a lot of space. [0042] Accordingly, in a configuration of the invention there is provided a calibrated water meter, usual and commercially available, with consumption indicator, and means for transmitting to the control unit a signal representing the water flow of the meter. of water. At the same time, the flow meter may be formed by the water meter. [0043] A water meter of this type is used to record the water consumption for the liquidation by the supplier. To this end, the water meter must be calibrated. It is changed at regular intervals to ensure the reliability of the counter. Water consumption can be read on an indicator. The indicator with a mechanical counter device is driven by a mechanical gear by a turbine inside the water meter, through which all the current is conducted. The water meter is commercially available and constitutes a calibrated unit that can be inserted as a whole into the accessory housing. [0044] An embodiment of the invention uses a water meter of this type - which is necessary anyway - as a turbine for the detection of atypical flow states. For this purpose, a reed relay is provided in the turbine, with which the revolutions are recorded and an electrical signal is generated. The signal is transmitted, for example, by a cable connection to the control unit. In this one it can be evaluated. [0045] In an alternative configuration, the calibrated water meter is additionally provided to an uncalibrated flow meter. The integration of the water meter in the accessory has the advantage that it is no longer necessary for the staff to personally read the results of consumption on site. Rather, the consumption result can be automatically transmitted to the central server at predefined or selected times. This reduces the error in reading. Personnel expenses are saved. In addition, there is the possibility to check the redundant counters for the quality of the record. [0046] In the leakage protection arrangement a pressure reducer is preferably arranged downstream with respect to the water meter. This makes it possible to individually adjust the water pressure in each home. The integration of the pressure reducer avoids additional installation costs and saves space. [0047] It is intended that the control devices communicate with each other, with a master control device and with a server. [0048] The closing mechanism may be formed by a spherical key with a ball, the ball having a through hole with a sieve. In this way a very compact arrangement is achieved. The accessory can have a housing with a housing tubing that can be closed, which is perpendicular to the direction of passage of the ball valve and through which access to the ball of the ball valve can be established, and the screen can be removed and Insert into the ball through the casing tubing and a drill. In this way it is possible to remove the sieve from the ball through the housing tubing. It can be cleaned and then easily inserted again. To this end, the screen can have a handle that protrudes from the ball. The screen and / or a cap that closes the housing tubing are preferably immobilized when the ball is in the passage position and water flows through the ball valve. When the ball valve is in the closed position, the immobilization is canceled and it is possible to remove the sieve. [0049] Preferably a downstream reflux inhibitor is disposed with respect to the water meter and / or a pressure reducer. Reflux inhibitors prevent water from flowing back to the drinking water supply, especially when one of the components is being maintained or changed. The components are in a housing tubing or its own opening, accessible from the outside. For maintenance, cleaning or replacement of the water meter, pressure reducer or sieve, the closing mechanism is closed. Then the component in question can be accessed well.

[0050] The subject claims are intended for configurations of the invention. Examples of embodiment are explained in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

[0051]

Figure 1 is an overall view of an example of a modular kit composed of different accessories for the Leakage protection and an equal control part for all accessories, according to a first example of realization. Figure 2 is a cross section through a first accessory for leakage protection with counter of water for use in a home. Figure 3 is a cross section through a second alternative accessory for leakage protection. for installation in a pipe. Figure 4 is a cross-section through a third accessory to prevent stagnation in a section of Water installation pipe. Figure 5 is a cross section through a fourth accessory for leak protection with a flange connection to connect another accessory. Figure 6 is a perspective representation of the accessory of Figure 5, with a control device. Figure 7 shows the arrangement of Figure 6 with the control unit released. Figure 8 shows in detail the junction point between the accessory and the control device. Figure 9 shows a detail of a cross section of an accessory with a branch that passes next to the turbine. Figure 10 schematically shows a first embodiment for the use of the various accessories in a multifamily house. Figure 11 schematically shows a second embodiment for the use of different accessories in a multifamily house with pool. Figure 12 is an overview of a modular kit composed of different accessories for protection against leaks and an equal control part for all accessories, according to a second embodiment. Figure 13 is a perspective representation of an accessory for leak protection with a flange of connection for the connection of another accessory. Figure 14 shows the accessory of Figure 13 in the form of an explosive representation. Figure 15 is a cross section through the accessory of Figure 13. Figure 16 is an accessory to carry out a hygienic wash for mounting under a sink. Figure 17 is an accessory for carrying out a hygienic wash for mounting in a pipe. Figure 18 shows a humidity sensor with control device. Figure 19 is a top view of an accessory, in which the current is divided into three partial currents to reduce resistance to flow. Figure 20 is a perspective representation of the accessory of Figure 19. Figure 21 is a top view of an accessory, in which the current is divided into two partial currents to reduce resistance to flow. Figure 22 is a perspective representation of the accessory of Figure 21. Figure 23 is a perspective representation of an accessory for detecting micro-leaks in large pipes. Figure 24 is a cross section through the pipe section of the fitting of Figure 23. Figure 25 is a partially cut view in vertical direction through the accessory of Figure 23. Figure 26 is a view cut in horizontal direction through the accessory of Figure 23. Figure 27 is a cross section along the section plane A-A through an arrangement of Leakage protection with water meter and pressure reducer, according to a third example of realization. Figure 28 is a perspective representation of the arrangement of Figure 27. Figure 29 is a perspective, partially explosive representation of the arrangement of Figure 27. Figure 30 is a side view of the arrangement of Figure 27. Figure 31 is a detail of Figure 27 with the ball valve and sieve. Figure 32 is a side view of a leakage protection arrangement with flow meter and flow meter. additional water, according to a fourth embodiment.

Description of the embodiments

1st embodiment

[0052] Figure 1 shows an overall view of different components of a modular kit for leakage protection according to a first embodiment of the invention. An equal control device for all other modules is designated with 10. The control device 10 is fixed with a clamp 12 to one of accessories 14, 16, 18 or 20. Accessories 14, 16, 18 and 20 have a corresponding connection 22.

[0053] Different accessories are intended for different applications. Accessory 14 is an adapter piece, which is mounted on a vertical water supply section of a multi-storey building at the connection before the water meter. The water meter can then be connected to accessory 14. [0054] Accessory 16 is an economical accessory of simple design, which is used in a straight pipe. Accessory 18 presents a discharge. It is installed under a sink and communicates the water supply with the discharge. Normally, the communication is blocked with a closing mechanism. However, if water has not been removed for a long time, the closing mechanism is opened and a hygienic wash is carried out. [0055] Accessory 20 has a connection flange 24. Other accessories can be flanged in this connection flange. For example, a filter, a pressure reducer or a combination of pressure reducer-filter can be flanged to the flange 24. Such additional accessories are necessary only at the entrance connection of the house and not in the different dwellings of a building. Correspondingly, accessory 20, which is somewhat more complex and expensive, is generally used only at the entrance connection of the house with the supply of drinking water. [0056] Figure 2 is a cross section through accessory 14. Accessory 14 is installed in the vertical pipe of a multi-storey building. It replaces the closing mechanism with a water meter that is usually in that place. The pipeline - not shown - extends along an axis between coaxial inlet 26 and outlet 28. The pipe can extend for example behind a wall or a liner with an opening. The arrangement 14 therefore has a cover plate 30, which extends in the plane of the wall. A conventional water meter 32 with indicator is provided prior to exit 28. The inlet 26 and the outlet 28 are formed by pipes 34 and 36. The pipes 34 and 36 are part of a splice piece 38, in which the water meter 32 is also provided. The splice piece 38 is screwed on a long intermediate piece 40. The intermediate piece 40 extends through the cover plate 30. The inlet 26 communicates with an inner channel 42 in the intermediate piece 40. Around the inner channel 42 an annular channel 44 is provided. annular channel 44 communicates with the outlet 28. [0057] On the other side of the cover plate 30 a multi-part housing is screwed into the intermediate piece 40, with the housing parts 46 and 48. In the housing part 46 is the ball 50 of a spherical key driven by motor. On the upper side, the housing part 46 is provided with a pipe 52. The pipe 52 constitutes the connection 22 for the control device 10. The control device 10 has a motor. With the motor, the ball 50 is driven by means of a bolt 54, which is connected to the ball 50 and which extends through the tubing 52. By turning the ball 50, the inner channel 42 can be closed and, therefore, the water input. [0058] Figure 2 shows the ball 50 in the open position. Water can flow from the inlet 26, through the inner channel 42 and through an angled passage 58 in the ball 50, downward, in the direction of the arrow 56. The lower housing portion 48 is plugged in with an annular seal 60 on the upper part of the housing 46 and fixed with a union nut 62. On the lower part of the housing a plastic bushing 64 is arranged. The bushing extends coaxially with respect to the passage 58 of the ball 50, but extra-axially with respect to the lower housing part 48. [0059] Coaxially in the bushing 48 another bushing, inner, 68 is arranged. Inner bushing 68 a reflux inhibitor 66 is arranged. The reflux inhibitor 66 is configured as a cartridge of the usual type and therefore does not need further description here. In the representation, the reflux inhibitor 66 opens down. [0060] The inner bushing 68 narrows conically upwards. In this way an annular space 70 is formed between the bushings 64 and 68 in the upper area. The annular space 70 communicates with a bypass bore 67. Under the reflux inhibitor 66 a turbine 72 is arranged. Between the reflux inhibitor and the turbine 72 are arranged ribs, which also serve as a counter-support for the turbine. Sufficient movement-free space is formed by the ribs for the stroke of the reflux inhibitor valve closure body 66. In the event of a water flow, the turbine rotates. The turbine 72 is provided with a small magnet 74 in the marginal zone. A reed relay 76 records the passage of the magnet 74. The signal is transmitted to the control device 10 via a connection 78. From the number of signals the amount of water that has flowed through the turbine can be determined. The flow rate can be determined from the rotation speed. [0061] Figure 9 is an enlarged representation of the area around the turbine 72 and the reflux inhibitor 66. The reflux inhibitor 66 does not open until a minimum flow rate is reached. In order to also detect minor flows with the turbine, the annular space 70 between the inner bushing 68 and the outer bushing 64 communicates, through a small bypass bore 67, with the zone 69 located between the reflux inhibitor 66 and the turbine 72. In this way, a smaller amount of water can bypass the reflux inhibitor 66 and, through the bore 67, meets directly with the blades of the turbine 72. In this way, the turbine is also already driven with quantities very small, which normally would not be enough to open the reflux inhibitor. [0062] At the lower end of the lower housing 48 a pressure sensor 80 is arranged. With the pressure sensor a pressure drop can be detected while the arrangement is closed. Thus, with the turbine 72 and the pressure sensor 80, volumetric flow, volumetric flow / time, duration of a volumetric flow and pressure drop can be determined. The control unit or a central server checks whether predefined threshold values are reached and a leak may be assumed. Then the ball valve is operated and the water supply is closed. [0063] The water that arrives through the reflux inhibitor and flows through the turbine flows, passing laterally and externally next to the bushing 64, through a chamber 82 upwards. This is represented by the arrows 84. The chamber 82 communicates with the annular space 44 of the intermediate piece 40 through an opening 84 provided in the upper housing part 46. From this point it flows towards the exit 28.

[0064] Accessory 14 can be mounted simply on existing water meter pipes. No additional connections are required. The accessory uses the existing connection for the water meter and integrates the water meter into the accessory. [0065] In Figure 3 an economical alternative accessory 16 is shown. Accessory 16 corresponds to accessory 14, but without water meter or intermediate piece. A multi-part housing consists of an upper housing part 100 and a lower housing part 102. The upper housing part 100 has an inlet 104 and a coaxial outlet 106. Behind the inlet 104, the ball valve 107 is already arranged. described. In this case too, a connection 22 for the control device is located on the upper side. Water flows from the inlet 104 through the ball 107, the reflux inhibitor 108 and the turbine 110. From the latter, the water flows through a chamber 112 to the outlet 106. Also in this case a water sensor is provided. pressure 114 at the lower end of the lower housing part 102. The fitting 16 uses the same components and has only other connections. It is especially suitable for use for individual shot points or groups of shot points. [0066] The control apparatus 10 can also be used to control an accessory for hygienic washing. An accessory of this type is shown in Figure 4 and designated with 18. Instead of a turbine and a pressure sensor, it has a discharge connection 116. A multi-part housing, with a top part of housing 118 and a part lower case 120, has an inlet at the upper end 122. The inlet 122 is formed by a piece of tubular joint 124, which is screwed into an inlet pipe 126 in the upper housing 118. The inlet 122 is connected to A water supply of a sink. On the upper side of the upper housing part 118, as in the accessories already described, a connection 22 for a control device 10 is provided. [0067] A conventional spherical key 128 is arranged behind the entrance. The spherical key 128 is operated, like the spherical key e already described above, by the motor provided in the control device 10. Under the spherical key s, the lower housing part 120 is screwed into the upper housing part 118 In the lower part of the housing 120, a discharge arrangement is arranged with the communication with the discharge 116. The discharge 116 is connected to a wastewater channel and as a rule contains an odorless siphon. [0068] The discharge arrangement comprises an upper discharge body 121 and a discharge funnel 123 fixed below it. The discharge body 121 and the discharge funnel 123 are easily connected to each other by means of a clip closure. An additional recoil lock 125 in the form of a valve that opens downwards has the mission of cutting off the communication with the sewage channel and thus avoiding discomfort from odors when no siphon is installed in the discharge duct. It should also be avoided that the wastewater rises through the discharge conduit 116 and can exit through the discharge arrangement. [0069] Above the valve, the discharge body 121 has ribs that extend along three concentric rings. Openings are formed between the nerves. The nerves are arranged so that the openings of a ring are formed in the angular area of the nerves of the adjacent rings. In addition, part of the nerves are radially connected to adjacent nerves by bridges. This design prevents water splashing out of the openings. [0070] Accessory 18 of this exemplary embodiment does not have its own flow measurement function. This function is used by one of the other accessories. When water is not extracted for a long time, for example, depending on the application, 48, 72 or 240 hours, this situation is detected by one of the flow meter accessories. Then, the accessory 18 receives through the control apparatus 10 a command instruction to open the ball valve, which is normally closed. Water flows from inlet 122 to discharge

116. In this way water flows through all the pipes located before this fitting. The installation of pipes is washed and the formation of germs is avoided due to a water stagnation. After a certain time, or after a predefined amount of wash water, the ball valve 128 is closed again. [0071] The fitting 18 can be installed where a water supply pipe and a discharge are located very close to each other. . A particularly suitable point is under sinks. Inlet 122 connects to the water supply. [0072] Figures 5, 6 and 7 show a somewhat more complex leak protection accessory 20. This accessory 20 comprises several housing parts. A first housing part 130 is configured as a pipe joint. Such pipe splicing parts are already known. This has an inlet 132, and a coaxial outlet 134 on the opposite side of the pipe fitting. The pipe fitting 130 is mounted on a straight pipe (not shown). The input 132 flows into a central channel 136. Around the central channel 136 an annular channel 138 is provided. The annular channel 138 communicates with the output. The central channel 136 and the annular channel 138 communicate, in a connection flange 140, with corresponding channels 142 and 144 of a central housing part 146. [0073] A spherical key 148 is arranged in the central housing part 146 in the central channel 144. With the ball valve 148, the water supply can be cut off. To this end, as in all the above-described arrangements, a connection 22 is provided for a control device 10 with motor and a bolt 150 for operating the ball valve with the motor. With the ball valve open, as shown in Figure 5, water flows through the central housing part 146 towards an additional connection flange 152. In the present embodiment, the connection flange 152 is closed with a 154 simple hood. The central channel 144 correspondingly communicates directly with an annular channel 141. The connection flange 152 nevertheless allows an easy connection of other accessories. Such accessories may in particular be filters, pressure reducers, pressure reducer-filter combinations or decalcification systems, such as those frequently used in domestic water inlets.

[0074] In its lower zone, the annular channel 141 communicates, through a channel 162 of the central housing part 146, with a flow measurement arrangement. In the central housing part 146 is formed a tubing 155 projecting downwards. The tubing 155 is closed with a cap 156. A reflux inhibitor 158 and a turbine 160 for flow measurement are arranged in the tubing. The tubing 154 flows into the area on the exit side of the annular channel 142. The water therefore flows from the central channel 144 through the spherical key 148. From it it reaches the annular channel 141 and then to the channel 162. It crosses the reflux inhibitor 158 and the turbine 160 and flows through the annular channel 142 to the outlet, where it is available for later use. The signals of the magnets 161 of the turbine 160 registered with a reed relay are transmitted in a known manner to the control unit and are evaluated in the latter or in a central server. [0075] Each of the accessories 14, 16, 18 and 20 described above has a connection 22 for the control device 10. The connection 22 is shown in detail again in Figure 8. The pin 54 or 150 for driving the ball of the ball valve is provided with a profile 170 at the upper end. The control device 10 with the motor meshes in this profile. A slot 172 is coupled with a corresponding projection 174. This establishes the connection between the control device 10 and the accessory without the possibility of rotation and with a defined position of the ball. The connection is secured in the manner shown in Figure 7, with a clamp 12 that intervenes in gaps 176. [0076] The control device 10 is equipped with a transceiver that, through a mobile radiotelephony network , establish a connection to the Internet. In this way it is possible, through the Internet, to establish a connection with a central server. Figure 10 schematically illustrates how the various components described above can be used for a leakage protection arrangement in a simple multi-family house. It is understood that this is only an example and that larger or smaller units are also imaginable. [0077] To achieve the most effective arrangement possible, careful planning is necessary. In this they are estimated

or the circulation speeds in different sections are measured and the number, type and distribution of the accessories are planned in such a way that at no point can very high circulation speeds be allowed without at the same time locating the origin of the circulation in the accessories located behind. In this context, economic aspects are also taken into account and an optimal value is found between the number of necessary components and the magnitude of the damage potentially caused by a leak. A goal may be, for example, to limit the maximum damage to 100 liters. Such damage can be remedied in a comparatively easy manner and does not penetrate through parts of the building or the like. [0078] House 200 shown in Figure 10 shows an entrance to the house for drinking water 202. Hydraulically behind the entrance to the house is installed an accessory 20 with a control device 10 and a combination of pressure reducer-filter 204. In this way, other filters or pressure reducers are no longer necessary in the building. In the other points simpler and cheaper devices are possible. Each dwelling

or each set of houses is also individually equipped or equipped with an accessory 14 or 16 and a corresponding control device 10. An accessory 18 with control device 10 is also installed in each dwelling or in each set of dwellings under the sink that is hydraulically further away from the attachment 14

or 16. [0079] To install an arrangement, first connect the fitting to the pipe. Otherwise, the control unit receives no value. Then the control device 10 is connected to a power supply. In the event of a power failure, an emergency power supply with accumulators or batteries is also provided. These or these are changed regularly during maintenance. The Internet connection of the control device 10 is established directly by means of a proprietary SIM card through a mobile radio network. [0080] The temporary IP address of the control unit 10 is transmitted autonomously to a central server. In addition, the homeowner or his installer registers the device through an Internet portal. For this purpose, an identification code or symbol is placed in a visible place on the device. The symbol can be read by a camera of a mobile terminal equipment and transmitted directly to the Internet portal. [0081] The server manages all important data. The management software is on the server and can be easily maintained and improved by the producer. The control device 10 does not require further installation steps or maintenance costs. In this way, the installation can be carried out by installers who, as is frequent, are inexperienced in matters of information technology, without having to resort to an information technology specialist. The hardware expense is small. [0082] The installer or the owner of the home can autonomously enter, through an own Internet portal, the appropriate parameters for the application. The parameters include the connection and disconnection of the holiday mode, the adjustment of the threshold values for the volumetric flow, the volumetric flow by time, the maximum duration of a volumetric flow and the pressure drop. This data is protected on the server even if a control device 10 is no longer able to operate. In this way it is possible to switch very easily to another identical device. The manufacturer can statistically evaluate the different operating parameters and other data. In this way it is possible to optimize the production process. If the parameters are entered directly into the control device 10, this new data is also transmitted to the server. [0083] Access to the Internet portal can be done in the usual way on a PC or through an appropriate application software (App) on a smartphone (Smartphone). The latter can also be used as an address for fault messages. This or another address for fault messages can be set for the respective project through the Internet portal. Advantageously, all the projects of a user are displayed in an overview, so that the user only has to log in once and then can manage each project individually.

[0084] Since for each dwelling or each set of dwellings an own leakage monitoring is carried out, in this one an individual holiday switching can also be arranged. The tolerances can be chosen smaller, so that it is possible to reduce the damage in case of leakage. When a very large quantity is removed, the control apparatus 10 first checks at the entrance to the house whether the volumetric flow is caused by a dwelling or by different dwellings. In the latter case, there is possibly no leakage and a closure is avoided. By using a plurality of leakage protection accessories, a leak can be better located and therefore found more quickly. The other parts of the building are not affected, since the closure is also carried out locally. [0085] The connection between the control devices and the server exists only temporarily and is not configured as a permanent line. This prevents it from being influenced by sources of parasites or hackers. Data is sent to the server at short intervals of, for example, 15 or 120 seconds. The server checks the data for leaks. The data is stored in a dynamic database and, if necessary, sent back with a modification. By means of the administration of all the control devices of a building it is possible to adjust the maximum flow at the entrance to the house and still limit the damages. In case of large flows, it is checked what is causing them, and a closure is made only if the control devices located behind do not communicate any circulation. [0086] When a leak fitting does not detect any volumetric flow for a prolonged period of time, depending on the application of approximately 48, 72 or 240 hours, a hygienic wash is automatically triggered. For this purpose a control signal is sent directly from the control device 14 of the leakage arrangement, or through the server, to the control device 10 of a hygienic accessory 18. The control device 10 opens the spherical key with the motor 128. Water then flows through all the pipes located before it, to the drain of the washbasin under which fixture 18 is installed. This prevents stagnation and the formation of germs possibly associated with it. [0087] The exemplary embodiment described above has been specifically described. It is understood that the transmission paths - wireless or wired - can be chosen at will. Nor is it necessarily necessary to carry out the invention to establish a central server. On the contrary, it can also assume this function, for example one of the control devices. The grouping of the capture points is arbitrary and depends on the application case. Thus, it may be convenient to monitor each take point individually, while in other applications a group of houses with several take points each is monitored. [0088] Depending on the hydraulic situation, the fittings are mounted on both hot water pipes and cold water pipes. This is especially convenient in the case of a central hot water supply. In addition to the pressure sensors, temperature sensors may be provided in the accessories. Temperature sensors make it possible to monitor the lower temperature limit of, for example, 55 degrees for hot water and the upper temperature limit of, for example, 25 degrees Celsius in order to avoid the formation of Legionelllas or other germs and microorganisms Similar.

2nd embodiment

[0089] Figures 11 to 26 show another embodiment in the form of a more complex building 220, with special requirements. Although all accessories 14, 16, 18 and 20 and control devices 10 with the corresponding network described in Figures 1 to 10 can also be used, other accessories with additional features are used and alternative control accessories and devices are represented. [0090] Building 220 is only one of an agglomeration of several buildings. A main pipe 214 with a large diameter and a correspondingly high capacity leads from the supplier to the entrance to the building. The building 220 has a main water meter 216 in the form of a turbine, with which all the water flowing through the main pipe 214 is registered. In the building a pool 212 is provided, which is filled or filled. [0091] The control device 210 is equipped with a communication device, which, unlike the control device 10, establishes a connection to the Internet via a cable or a WLAN. A connection to a central server can be established through the Internet. Figure 11 schematically illustrates how the various components described above can be used for a leakage protection arrangement in the building. It is understood that this is only an example and that larger or smaller units are also imaginable. [0092] To install an arrangement, first connect each fitting to the pipe. Otherwise, the control device 210 receives no value. The control device 210 is then connected to a power supply. As emergency power supply, batteries or accumulators are provided, which are changed during periodic maintenance. The Internet connection of the control device 210 is preferably established by means of a cable, since it is possible that a WLAN connection is not stable. If a cable connection to the Internet is not available, a WLAN 218 device with a display and an input device in the form of a keyboard can be connected by cable. The keypad is especially necessary for the introduction of an access code in the case of an encrypted WLAN 222. If a WLAN is not available in the area of a device, there is the possibility of establishing an Internet connection with a Devolo device (www.devolo.de) or a comparable device through the mains. Since this technology is generally known, we dispense with a more detailed description here. [0093] To avoid problems with the Internet connection firewall, first of all the relevant data is sent only from the control device 210 to the server. The server then has the opportunity to send back instructions, in particular the "close" instruction, as an attachment to this message without the firewall rejecting the message.

[0094] Figure 12 is an overall view analogous to Figure 1, which shows the various components used in building 220. Also here simple accessories 14 and 16 are used, which have already been described in detail above by means of the first embodiment example. These do not present changes. Although Figures 10 and 11 show exclusively the use of accessories 14, it is understood that, depending on the mounting conditions, an accessory 16 can be used in this position. [0095] The reference symbol 224 designates an arrangement with the same function as arrangement 20, however, a pressure sensor is additionally provided. The arrangement 224 serves as the so-called master and can be provided with other components, for example a pressure reducer-filter arrangement. The following is described in detail by means of Figures 13 to 15. [0096] An alternative arrangement for carrying out a hygienic wash is designated 226. Unlike the arrangement described in the first embodiment, the accessory 226 is provided of a proper flow meter in the form of a turbine. It is fixed on a wall bracket and can be connected to the drain of a sink. [0097] The provision 228 is also an arrangement for carrying out a hygienic wash. This arrangement has a discharge funnel, which can be placed on top of a sink or other suitable discharge. The arrangement 228 is integrated without a wall bracket in a pipe. [0098] With 230 an arrangement is designated with which a control apparatus 210 can be fixed to a wall bracket. The control device 210 is connected to a humidity sensor by means of a long cable and provides the server with information on humidity from other sources, for example rainwater, which does not escape from the monitored water installation. [0099] The arrangement 232 (shown here with a control device) serves to detect micro-leaks in particularly large pipes that cannot be detected with the turbine used in the latter for flow measurement. [0100] With 234 and 236, accessories (also represented with control device) are designated in which the current is divided into two or three partial currents to reduce flow resistance and loss of flow in the case of high circulation speeds. Pressure. [0101] All components represented in Figure 12 are used in the application shown in Figure 11. [0102] The accessory 224 used as a master is represented in detail in Figures 13 to 15. The accessory 224 has a first part of housing 248 with two flanges 238 and 240 with a central channel 242 and annular channels 244 or 246 located around. With one of the flanges 238 or 240, the first housing part 248 is flanged to a pipe joint 250. The choice of the flange does not influence the operation of the arrangement and depends on the mounting conditions (right-left mounting ). In the present exemplary embodiment, the tube splice piece 250 has been flanged on the flange 238, and the free flange has been closed with a cap 252. Figure 11 shows how the flange can be used to flange a combination of pressure reducer-filter 254 (for example “Drufi” with flange connection, offered by the applicant). So far, accessory 224 is identical to accessory 20 of the first embodiment. However, the accessory 224 additionally has a pressure sensor 254. The pressure sensor detects the pressure in the area of the turbine 256 and the reflux inhibitor 258. When the ball valve 260 closes with the control apparatus 210 during a period in which water is not extracted, as a rule no water flows. A pressure drop in pressure sensor 254 then means that there is a leak. The signals of the pressure sensor 254 representing the pressure are transmitted through the control apparatus 210 to the central server. Here the signals are evaluated. If a difference that is above a predefined and adjustable threshold value is detected during the measurement time, a leak is assumed. Then, the server generates a message, which is transmitted by email or SMS to the installer, administrator or owner of the competent home. [0103] The reflux inhibitor 258 arranged before turbine 256 constitutes a hydraulic resistor. In this way a current that overcomes the resistance at the start of the turbine flows against the turbine. The "mini-streams" flow by passing laterally next to the reflux inhibitor and flow against the turbine laterally. The bypass provided for this has only a small diameter and the "mini-current" has a high speed, which is sufficient to overcome the resistance at the start even with small currents. [0104] Figure 16 shows an accessory 226 for carrying out a hygienic wash. The accessory 226 works the same as the accessory 18 of the first embodiment. However, the accessory 226 is provided with a wall bracket 230. In addition, the accessory has its own flow meter in the form of a turbine, which is located in a housing part 262 protruding downward, before discharge 264 With the additional flow meter a stagnation can also be detected at the last end of an installation. If there are several intake points between the flow meter in an accessory 14, 16 or 254 and if the rear intake points are not used, forming a stagnation, this situation can be detected only if the accessory for performing a hygienic wash is provided with its own flow meter. If there is only one tapping point in this area, simple accessory 18 can still be used. [0105] Figure 17 shows an accessory 228 for carrying out a hygienic wash with identical characteristics to those of accessory 226 shown in Figure 16. It has a discharge funnel 266, a housing 268 with a flow meter and a control device 210. However, the accessory 228 is installed on top of a collecting battery

or from a discharge and the wash water is ejected downwards without a fixed connection to the drain of a sink. Accessory 228 is installed without a wall bracket directly on a pipe. [0106] Figure 18 shows a control apparatus 210 that is secured with a wall bracket 230 in an area where there is a risk of a water accident. Figure 11 shows the control device 210 in the basement area below a pool 212. However, the control device can also be provided in window and

doors, through which rainwater or similar occasionally enters. As shown in Figure 18, a humidity sensor 270 is connected directly to the control apparatus 210 by a long and flexible cable. The humidity sensor 270 can be placed in the area exposed to the danger. If moisture appears, the humidity sensor 270 detects it and transmits it to the server through the control device 210. The server generates an immediate message to the installer, administrator or owner of the competent dwelling, which allows to quickly detect and correct it within The cause is possible. This also avoids or limits the impact of water damage that is not caused by the monitored water installation. [0107] In the building 220 a pool 212 is provided. The operation of filling or refilling the pool 212 is carried out by means of a water pipe 274. It is desirable that the pipe 274 allows the highest possible circulation speed to achieve short filling times . Accessories 14, 16 and 254 have a limited diameter and are too small for the circulation speeds necessary for this application. Figures 19 to 22 therefore show a variant embodiment of an accessory in which the current is divided into three (figure 19 and figure 20) or two (figure 21 and figure 22) partial currents. Accessory 236 has a common input 276 and output 278. Each of the possible equal partial currents is conducted through its own flow meter 280, whose signals are transmitted to its own control apparatus 210. Then, the partial currents are reunited and flow together through the outlet 278. The values recorded in the three control devices 210 are collected in a joint value and added together. In this way a filling process with sufficient circulation speeds can be carried out. The control devices 210 are adjusted so that the leakage protection function is completely deactivated during filling. Once the filling is completed, the leak protection function is switched on again. Activation and deactivation can be carried out comfortably through the server or also directly by remote control through a user software on a smartphone. The activated leakage protection function can be adjusted to very small tolerances when the monitored pipeline is exclusively intended for filling pool 212. In this way, major water damage can be prevented. Any small pressure drop above the threshold value will lead to a pipe closure. [0108] Depending on the application, an accessory 234 may also be sufficient in which only two partial currents are provided. This is represented in Figures 21 and 22. [0109] Figures 23 to 26 show an accessory for monitoring leaks in particularly large pipes in which a partial current split would also not be sufficient. An example of such an application is the main pipe 214 for the building 220 of this embodiment. The pipes and socket points in building 220 are monitored by the various slave accessories 14 or 16 of the dwellings and the master

254. Such fittings are not suitable for the main pipe between the supply and the fitting 254. Water consumption is recorded with the water meter 216. However, the turbine provided for this purpose is large, slow and has a high resistance. at startup. Minor leaks would flow through the turbine without being detected. To this end, an accessory 232 is provided. [0110] The accessory 232 comprises an inlet 284 and an outlet 282. Between the inlet 284 and the outlet 282 there is arranged a reflux inhibitor 286. The inlet 284 and the outlet 282 are mounted on the pipe 214 before the part of it to be monitored. The hydraulic resistance of the reflux inhibitor 286 is designed so that it is only slightly greater than the resistance at the start of the turbine of the water meter 216. Therefore, it opens exactly when the current is large enough to be detected by the water meter 216. [0111] A small current, caused for example by a micro-leak in the main pipe 214, cannot overcome the resistance of the reflux inhibitor 286 and is conducted through a bypass channel 288 in the accessory

232. This is illustrated by arrows 290. [0112] The cross-section of Figure 25 shows the inside of accessory 232, which is provided with a housing 292. The current is conducted through a horizontal channel 294 and through a spherical key 296. The spherical key 296, as in the other accessories, is operated by a control device 210. In a cavity that extends vertically below the spherical key 296, a reflux inhibitor 298 and a turbine 300 are arranged. , which together with a reed relay form a sensitive flow meter, as also used in the other accessories described herein. Water flows outwardly again up and through a channel 302, passing alongside the reflux inhibitor 286, to outlet 282. This is illustrated by arrows 304. [0113] With the flow meter composed of turbine 300 and the reflux inhibitor 298 makes it possible to also detect very small currents. The evaluation of the signals of the master fitting 254 at the entrance to the house and the signals of the fitting 232 provides accurate information as to whether there is a leak in pipe 214 or not. To avoid a false alarm, a micro-leak is not notified until several successive measurements at different times confirm a micro-leak. Meanwhile the values are stored. [0114] The second embodiment illustrates to a greater extent different units and uses more slave accessories 14 connected in series. Between the accessories and behind them, several socket points 306 and 308 are arranged. The use of one of such serial connections makes it possible, on the one hand, to set lower threshold values for maximum circulation. Moreover, the serial connection allows a more accurate location of the cause of the leak.

3rd embodiment

[0115] Figures 27 to 32 show a leakage protection arrangement generally designated 310. The leakage protection arrangement 310 is an accessory with an accessory housing 312 with an input 314 and a coaxial output 316. In addition, the leakage protection arrangement 310 has a locking mechanism

in the form of a spherical wrench 318 with a ball 322 and a control apparatus 320. Downstream with respect to the closing mechanism 318 is a calibrated water meter 324, commercially available, with a consumption indicator 326. Before the outlet 316 is arranged a pressure reducer 328, in a pipe 330. Upstream and downstream with respect to the pressure reducer 328 there is provided in each case a reflux inhibitor 332 or 334 that opens in the direction of the outlet. A pressure sensor 336 detects the outlet pressure at the outlet 316. The entire arrangement is arranged in an additional housing 338 composed of two plastic halves. This can be seen well in Figure 28. [0116] In the present embodiment, an arrangement 310 is installed in the pipe in each dwelling of a multi-storey building. Said arrangement 310 replaces the closing mechanism with water meter that is usually found in said place. The pipeline - not shown - extends along an axis between inlet 314 and outlet 316 coaxial. It is understood that provision 310 can also be used as an autonomous solution in a single-family or similar dwelling. [0117] The ball 322 has a through hole 342. In Figure 27, the ball 322 of the ball valve 318 is shown in the passage position, in which the through hole 342 is aligned with the hole 344 of the housing 312 The closing mechanism is open. The ball 322 is connected to a bolt 340. The bolt 340 for actuating the ball of the spherical key is provided with a profile at the upper end. The control unit 320 with motor meshes in this profile. This establishes the connection between the control device 320 and the accessory without the possibility of rotation and with a defined position of the ball. The union is secured with a clamp that intervenes in some holes. The ball 322 can be rotated about a vertical axis, which is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the bolt 340. In this way, the ball valve 318 is opened and closed by a command signal. [0118] In addition to the horizontal through hole 342, the ball 322 has a hole 346 extending downward. The bore 346 is aligned with a housing tubing 348 that also extends downward. The housing tubing 348 can also be seen in Fig. 29. Through the housing tubing 348 and the bore 346 a sieve 350 can be introduced into the ball 322. The sieve 350 can be seen well in Fig. 29. A groove 352 in the peripheral direction of the through hole 342 inside the ball 322 serves to accommodate the edge of the sieve 350. All the water flowing through the ball 322 is released from thick dirt particles in the sieve. A horizontal edge 354 closes the bore 346. Additionally, a plug 356 closes the tubing 348, so that no water can flow from below. [0119] To clean the screen, the ball valve 318 is closed first. Then no water can escape. The cap can then be removed and the screen 350 removed from the ball 322 by means of a handle 358. After cleaning, the screen 350 can be inserted again in the same way. [0120] Downstream with respect to the closing mechanism 318 there is provided a housing tubing 360 extending upwards. A calibrated water meter 324 with commercial consumption indicator 326 is inserted into the housing tubing 360. Water meter 324 is easy to remove and can be changed without any problem regularly at the intervals required by law. In the water meter 324 there is a turbine (not shown), which is driven by the current of water passing through the arrangement 310. The turbine drives a mechanical gear and the indicator 326. One of the edges of the gear is provided with a magnet. The movement of the magnet is detected by a reed relay 362 and transmitted to the control device 320 by a signal line 364. [0121] The control device 320 is provided with a signal evaluation unit. In this signal evaluation unit it is determined whether there is a leak. This is the case, for example, when a very small amount of water ("mini-leak") flows continuously or when a lot of water flows in a very short time (pipe breakage). If a leak exists, the closing mechanism 318 is closed. [0122] The control unit 320 is equipped with a transceiver that, through a mobile radiotelephony network, establishes a connection to the Internet. A connection to a central server can be established through the Internet. In a multi-family house, several leak protection provisions can be used. It is understood that this is only an example and that larger or smaller units are also imaginable. [0123] To achieve the most effective possible arrangement of various leak protection accessories, careful planning is necessary. In this one, the circulation speeds in different sections are estimated or measured and the number, type and distribution of the accessories are planned so that at no point can very high circulation speeds be allowed without being located at the same time the origin of the circulation in the accessories located behind. In this context, economic aspects are also taken into account and an optimal value is found between the number of necessary components and the magnitude of the damage potentially caused by a leak. A goal may be, for example, to limit the maximum damage to 100 liters. Such damage can be remedied in a comparatively easy manner and does not penetrate through parts of the building or the like. [0124] To install an arrangement, first connect the fitting to the pipe. Otherwise, the control unit receives no value. The control device 320 is then connected to a power supply. In the event of a power failure, an emergency power supply with accumulators or batteries is also provided. These or these are changed regularly during maintenance. The Internet connection of the control unit 320 is established directly by means of a proprietary SIM card through a mobile radio network. [0125] The temporary IP address of the control device 320 is transmitted autonomously to a central server. In addition, the homeowner or his installer registers the device through an Internet portal. For this purpose, an identification code or symbol is placed in a visible place on the device. The symbol can be read by a camera of a mobile terminal equipment and transmitted directly to the Internet portal.

[0126] The server manages all important data. The management software is on the server and can be easily maintained and improved by the producer. The control unit 320 does not require further installation steps or maintenance costs. In this way, the installation can be carried out by installers who, as is frequent, are inexperienced in matters of information technology, without having to resort to an information technology specialist. The hardware expense is small. [0127] The installer or the owner of the home can autonomously enter, through an own Internet portal, the appropriate parameters for the application. The parameters include the connection and disconnection of the holiday mode, the adjustment of the threshold values for the volumetric flow, the volumetric flow by time, the maximum duration of a volumetric flow and the pressure drop. This data is protected on the server even if a control device 320 is no longer able to operate. In this way it is possible to switch very easily to another identical device. The manufacturer can statistically evaluate the different operating parameters and other data. In this way it is possible to optimize the production process. If the parameters are entered directly into the control device 320, this new data is also transmitted to the server. [0128] Access to the Internet portal can be done in the usual way on a PC or through an appropriate application software (App) on a smartphone (smartphone). The latter can also be used as an address for fault messages. This or another address for fault messages can be set for the respective project through the Internet portal. Advantageously, all the projects of a user are displayed in an overview, so that the user only has to log in once and then can manage each project individually. [0129] Since for each dwelling or each set of dwellings an own leakage monitoring is carried out, in this one an individual holiday switching can also be arranged. The tolerances can be chosen smaller, so that it is possible to reduce the damage in case of leakage. When a very large quantity is removed, the control device 320 first checks at the entrance to the house whether the volumetric flow is caused by a dwelling or by different dwellings. In the latter case, there is possibly no leakage and a closure is avoided. By using a plurality of leakage protection accessories, a leak can be better located and therefore found more quickly. The other parts of the building are not affected, since the closure is also carried out locally. [0130] In addition to the closing mechanism and the water meter, a pressure reducer 328 is provided in arrangement 310. With the pressure reducer 328, the outlet pressure of the arrangement can be adjusted. In this way, pressure fluctuations on the supply side can be dampened. The pressure reducer 328 constitutes a unit that is inserted as a whole into the tubing 330. It is easily accessible and easy to change and maintain. [0131] A reflux inhibitor is provided both behind the water meter 324 and behind the pressure reducer 328. Both reflux inhibitors 332 and 334 are configured as a reflux inhibitor cartridge and inserted into the bore of the housing therein. Reflux inhibitors 332 and 334 open in the direction of the outlet. Water cannot flow from the system behind the supply pipe. When a component has to be changed, for example the water meter or the pressure reducer, the closing mechanism is closed. This prevents water from flowing from the supply line to the fitting. Reflux inhibitors prevent water from flowing from the installation behind the accessory. The components can be easily removed. [0132] At pressure 316 a pressure sensor 336 is arranged. With the pressure sensor a pressure drop can be detected while the arrangement is closed. Thus, with the water meter and pressure sensor 336, volumetric flow, volumetric flow / time, duration of a volumetric flow and pressure drop can be determined. The control unit or a central server checks whether predefined threshold values are reached and a leak may be assumed. Then the ball valve is operated and the water supply is closed. [0133] The exemplary embodiment described above has been specifically described. It is understood that the transmission paths - wireless or wired - can be chosen at will. Nor is it necessarily necessary to carry out the invention to establish a central server. On the contrary, it can also assume this function, for example one of the control devices. [0134] Depending on the hydraulic situation, the fittings are mounted on both hot water pipes and cold water pipes. This is especially convenient in the case of a central hot water supply. Also in this exemplary embodiment, temperature sensors may be provided in the accessories in addition to the pressure sensors. Temperature sensors make it possible to monitor the lower temperature limit of, for example, 55 degrees for hot water and the upper temperature limit of, for example, 25 degrees Celsius in order to avoid the formation of Legionelllas or other germs and microorganisms Similar.

4th embodiment

[0135] Figure 32 shows a leakage protection arrangement 410 with flow meter and additional water meter according to a fourth embodiment. The leakage protection arrangement 410 comprises, as the previous embodiments, an accessory with an accessory housing 412 with an input 414 and with a coaxial output 416. In addition, the leakage protection arrangement 410 has a locking mechanism in In the form of a spherical key 418 with a ball and a control device 420. Downstream with respect to the closing mechanism 418, a turbine-shaped flow meter is arranged in the housing 412. A water meter calibrated 424 with consumption indicator 426 usual in the commercial is arranged current

below with respect to the housing 412. Both the flow meter and the water meter 242 supply the apparatus command 420 a signal representing the flow. In this way, the control unit can monitor leaks. Additionally, the consumption detected with the calibrated water meter 424 can be transmitted to a server central. Therefore, it is no longer necessary to have a person read the water meter. [0136] Otherwise, the control device 420, the ball valve 418, the flow meter and the other components they function as described above by means of embodiments 1-3.

Claims (11)

1. Installation of drinking water with a leakage protection provision, which contains

(to)

an accessory (14, 16, 18, 20; 230; 234, 236; 312; 412) mounted on the drinking water installation before one or more intake points (306, 308),

(b)

a turbine or other flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300), which is arranged or arranged in the accessory and that generates signals representing the flow through the accessory,

(C)

a closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418) arranged in the accessory to cut off the water supply in the drinking water installation; Y

(d)

a control device (10; 210; 320; 420), with a signal processing device that receives signals from the turbine or other flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300), to detect conditions of atypical and / or unwanted flow in the water installation and to actuate the closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418); in which

(and)

the control unit (10; 210; 320; 420) has a communication unit that allows the leakage protection arrangement to be remotely adjusted by means of a user terminal equipment with a communication unit,

(F)

a central network server is provided with a computer program, by means of which the communication units of the user terminal equipment and the communication units of the control device (10; 210; 320; 420) are communicated, and

(g)

at least one additional accessory (14, 16, 18, 20; 234, 236; 312; 412) with a control device is provided in the installation of drinking water, before one or more intake points (306, 308) with a communication unit and with a flow meter (72; 110; 160; 256; 280; 300) and a closing mechanism (50; 107; 128; 148; 260; 296; 318; 418); characterized by

(h)

a communication of the control devices (10; 210; 320; 420) with each other and with the central server can be established with the control unit communication unit,

(i)

one of the accessories (20; 234, 236; 254) with control device (10) being provided centrally in the water supply area of a water installation and all other accessories (14, 16, 18, 230) ; 312; 412) with control device to install them hydraulically behind, and

(j)

determining the control device of the accessory for its central disposal in the area of the water supply, by communicating the control devices with each other, if a very large flow has to be attributed to the simultaneous extraction of water at several intake points or a loss of water in just one point.

2.

Installation of drinking water according to claim 1, characterized in that the control devices (10; 210; 320; 420) have the same design and are connected to the common central server, in which the necessary software for the evaluation of the devices is provided. signals received from the accessory and for the control of the accessory.

3.

Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication units of the control devices, the communication units of the user terminal equipment and the central server communicate with each other via the Internet or other suitable network .

Four.

Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication units and the user terminal equipment have a transceiver for communication through a LAN, WLAN, mobile radiotelephony network or other wireless network.

5.

Installation of drinking water according to claim 4, characterized in that the communication is carried out, at least partially, through an electrical network.

6.

Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that several accessories are connected hydraulically in series with control device (10; 210; 320; 420) and a maximum circulation speed is set for each accessory in which it is made a closure, the set value for the maximum circulation speed being adjusted to the smallest value of the series for the accessory farthest from the water supply, and set to a higher value on hydraulically installed accessories before according to the position in the series and the permissible flow rates at the intermediate points.

7.

Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in at least one of the accessories (234, 236), it is provided that the current is divided into several parallel partial currents, which are recorded and evaluated separately with own flow meters and then meet again.

8.

Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in at least one of the accessories (232), it is provided that a reflux inhibitor, a clapper or other negligible dynamic resistance (286) is provided in the current. case of large flows and the current is conducted, upstream with respect to the resistance, through a branch (288) in which, in addition to a first flow meter (216) of the same conduit, a second flow meter is provided flow (300) that is considerably more sensitive than the first flow meter (216) and can detect currents too small to overcome resistance (286).

9. Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closing mechanism of at least one of the accessories is formed by a spherical key (318) with a ball (322), the ball (322) presenting a through hole (342) with a sieve (350) and the accessory presenting a housing (312) with a housing tubing that can be closed, which is perpendicular to the direction of passage of the ball valve 5 (318) and through which an access to the ball (322) of the ball valve can be established, and by which the sieve (350) can be removed and inserted into the ball (322) through the housing tubing and a drill (346). 10. Installation of drinking water according to claim 9, characterized in that the sieve (350) has a handle (358) protruding from the ball. 10 11. Installation of drinking water according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, downstream with respect to the flow meter (324) and / or a pressure reducer (328), a reflux inhibitor (332, 334) is provided. In the same accessory.

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43

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Four. Five

REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION The list of references cited by the applicant is only for the utility of the reader, not being part of the European patent documents. Even if the references have been carefully collected, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO rejects any responsibility in this regard. Patent documents cited in the description

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DE 102009045150 B3 [0005] • DE 10200500009 A1 [0009]

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US 20120026004 A1 [0006] • DE 102007026162 A1 [0009]

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WO 2010039045 A1 [0007] • DE 202008003055 U1 [0009]

• GB 2360365 A [0008] 10