DE102020108057A1 - Fluid line arrangement, shower head for dispensing water, use of a fluid line arrangement and method for providing water - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a fluid line arrangement (1), comprising at least one first line section (2), which has a first channel section (3) with a first channel cross-section (4), and a second line section (5), which has a second channel section (6) a second channel cross-section (7), the first line section (2) and the second line section (5) being displaceable or rotatable relative to one another and forming a connecting area (8) in which the first channel cross-section (4) differs from the adjacent second channel cross-section (7 ) differs significantly. In addition, a shower head, a use of the fluid line arrangement and a method for providing water are specified.

Description

The present invention relates to a fluid line arrangement, in particular for a shower head for dispensing water, as well as a use of a fluid line arrangement and a method for providing water.

In the field of sanitary engineering, it is known to offer the user of sanitary fittings setting options with which water can be directed from a water connection to different delivery locations. This is used, for example, to emit the exiting water jet with different orientations, positions, jet shapes, etc. This setting option is implemented in particular in showers in which different jet types can be set, such as a rain shower function, a massage function, etc. For this, it is necessary to convert the water path within a very limited installation space. Such a conversion of waterways also requires that components of the sanitary fitting have to be moved relative to one another, for example rotated, shifted or bent with respect to one another. These components, which have to be moved relative to one another here, also at least partially form the water path, so that in particular the escape of water in the area of these components has to be avoided.

It is known to seal transition areas of different water-carrying parts that are in contact with one another against undesired leakage of water by means of sealants. In this case, when changing a waterway, i.e. when changing the outlet of a first water-bearing part to another inlet of a second water-bearing part, it is necessary to overcome forces caused by friction between seals or internal pressures. This increased effort impairs user comfort and can also result in signs of wear and tear.

Proceeding from this, it is the object of the present invention to at least partially solve the problems described with reference to the prior art. In particular, a fluid line arrangement is to be proposed for the purpose described here, which allows a more comfortable and at the same time watertight design of such a changeover element.

These objects are achieved with a fluid line arrangement according to claim 1. Advantageous developments of the fluid line arrangement, a shower built therewith, a preferred use of the fluid line arrangement and a method for providing water by means of such a fluid line arrangement are specified in the dependent claims. It should be pointed out that the features listed in the patent claims can be combined with one another in any desired, technologically meaningful manner and show further variants of the invention. The description, in particular in connection with the figures, explains the invention and specifies additional exemplary embodiments.

A fluid line arrangement, which comprises at least a first line section and a second line section, contributes to this. The first line section has a first channel section with a first channel cross section. The second line section has a second channel section with a second channel cross section. The first line section and the second line section are arranged such that they can be displaced or rotated relative to one another. Furthermore, the first line section and the second line section (together) form a connection area in which the first channel cross-section differs significantly from the adjacent second channel cross-section.

The first line section and / or the second line section can be designed as separate components, wherein a tubular or solid base body can be provided, in each of which a channel section is formed or shaped. The first line section and the second line section can be arranged with respect to one another in such a way that, in particular, the first channel section opens into a second channel section. In this respect, the two line sections can, for. B. be positioned by a transversal or radial displacement or a rotation or rotation so (front side) to each other that the first channel section is positioned opposite to the second channel section.

As far as a channel section is mentioned here, it is meant in particular that the line section forms a channel section for guiding water from an inlet to an outlet. The channel section also has a channel cross section. The shape of the cross section can be any, but will be essentially round for many applications. It is not necessary for the channel cross-section in a channel section to be constant in terms of shape and / or size.

Here it is proposed in particular that the respective adjoining channel cross-sections deviate significantly from one another in the connection area between the first line section and the second line section. In particular, there is no (mathematically) constant change in the channel cross-section in the connection area, but instead a jump. The difference between the two opposite or adjacent channel cross-sections of the two channel sections deviate significantly from one another, in particular if the difference or the deviation in terms of size (diameter, circumference, diagonal, etc.) and / or shape (shape tolerance, area, etc.) is at least 10%, preferably at least 20% or even at least 30%. The deviation takes place in particular in such a way that the channel cross-sections are enlarged in the direction of a predetermined water flow. In particular, an expansion or pressure reduction or even a negative pressure in the water flow can be generated in the connecting area or when entering the subsequent channel section with a larger channel cross-section. It is very particularly preferred that at the point of change from the first line section to the second line section, the waterway is geometrically designed in such a way that a jet pump effect is implemented in this connection area with regard to the water flow flowing through it. This can result in a negative pressure at the connection point, so that no water can escape in the interface or between the contact areas of the first line section and second line section, because a suction pressure with respect to the environment can then be set in the connection area.

It is possible for the first line section and the second line section to form a plug-in receptacle in the connection area. For this purpose, it is possible that the two line sections are at least partially designed with a cylindrical base body, which are brought into contact with one another at the end. For this purpose, one of the two line sections can form a type of receptacle or collar element and the other line section can form a connecting piece that protrudes into the collar or receptacle. In particular, a flush face-side contact surface can be created and, at the same time, a radial offset of the two line sections with respect to one another can be blocked. In particular, this also leads to an arrangement of the two line sections along a predetermined axis. The plug-in receptacle can serve to guide the relative movement of the first line section and the second line section, for example by means of translational or circumferential sliding surfaces.

It can further be provided that a connection between the first line section and the second line section is made free of sealant in the connection area. This means in particular that no additional seal is provided in the area of the contact surfaces between the first line section and the second line section, in particular where the relative movement takes place. And that also means that with this relative movement, frictional forces that arise from seals usually provided there do not have to be overcome and thus the handling of the fluid line arrangement or a corresponding changeover unit is improved.

At least the first channel section or the second channel section can comprise an increasing or decreasing channel cross section along their course. In particular, it is possible for both the first channel section and the second channel section to include a sector in which the channel cross section is constant. In addition, however, a sector is also provided in which a (continuously) variable, in particular increasing, channel cross-section is formed. In particular, it is provided that a sector of the channel section with a constant channel cross section extends from one end face of the line section into inner areas and then a sector with a varying channel cross section extends to the opposite end face of the line section. It is further preferred that the first line section and the second line section are arranged or can be arranged relative to one another in such a way that a sector with a constant channel cross section opens into an adjacent sector of the other line section with a varying channel cross section.

It is also possible that at least the first channel section or the second channel section form an eccentric zone. This means in particular that a (central) axis can be assigned to the line sections, and at least one of the channel sections at least in one (axial) zone does not run concentrically to or on this axis. It is possible for the channel section to be designed in such a way that it initially runs centrally along the axis and is then deflected radially outward. It is also possible for no central zones to be formed in a line section, but only (possibly several) eccentric channel sections. Such a configuration is particularly useful when the water paths are to be changed over by rotating the first line section and the second line section with respect to one another. For example, the water can be fed centrally to the first line section, in which case it is then guided radially outward within the first line section and the first channel section ends off-center and at the end. The second conduit section can then have a plurality of inlet openings for the second duct sections lying on the same radius, so that these can be optionally aligned with an opposite first duct section by rotation.

It is also possible that at least the first line section or the second line section comprises a plurality of channel sections, and a channel section of one line section can open into different channel sections of the other line section by shifting or rotating relative to one another. This results in a recognizably coordinated geometrical positioning of the opposite channel sections in the connection area of the line sections.

It is particularly preferred here that the line sections form part of a changeover element for varying at least the water outlet location, the water outlet orientation or the water jet type. The two line sections and their relative movement during use result in water flowing through alternative, different water paths, namely in each case only that which is set by means of the two channel sections aligned with one another. Starting from the line section through which the flow lasted, the water then runs to specially designed water dispensing openings, which then specifically influence or set the location, the orientation or the type of water jet. This is usually done with downstream components, such as those in a shower.

Accordingly, a shower head for dispensing water is also proposed, which allows a changeover element to vary at least the water outlet location (the water outlet orientation or the water jet type), and which has a fluid guide arrangement of the type proposed here.

The use of a fluid line arrangement proposed here for smooth and watertight adjustment of water flows by shifting or rotating with at least one of the line sections is very particularly preferred. This use is particularly advantageous if it is carried out without a sealant.

Use is particularly preferred if it serves to set a pressure drop in the connection area when the water flows through it. This can lead to a negative pressure situation, so that the guide surfaces between the two line sections do not have to be sealed against one another with additional sealing measures.

• a) Wasser strömt in den ersten Kanalabschnitt ein.
• b Wasser strömt aus dem ersten Kanalabschnitt mit einem vorgegebenen ersten Kanalquerschnitt aus.
• c) Wasser strömt in den zweiten Kanalabschnitt mit einem vorgegebenen zweiten Kanalabschnitt ein, wobei der zweite Kanalquerschnitt größer als der erste Kanalquerschnitt ist, sodass ein solcher Druckabfall erzeugbar ist, dass ein wasserdichter Verbindungsbereich gebildet ist.
• d) Wasser strömt aus dem zweiten Kanalabschnitt aus.

According to a further aspect, a method for providing water by means of a fluid guide arrangement of the type proposed here is specified, with at least the following steps being carried out:

• a) Water flows into the first channel section.
• b Water flows out of the first channel section with a predetermined first channel cross-section.
• c) Water flows into the second channel section with a predetermined second channel section, the second channel cross section being larger than the first channel cross section, so that such a pressure drop can be generated that a watertight connection area is formed.
• d) Water flows out of the second channel section.

The advantages and variants explained with reference to the fluid line arrangement also serve to describe the shower, use and method for providing water explained here. In this respect, reference can be made to it in full.

The solution proposed here leads in particular to a very easy changeover with all possible operating principles. In addition, the counter pressure caused by calcification in the waterway does not destroy the functionality of the product.

As a side effect, it can also be mentioned that in the event of undesirably high pressures, some air may be sucked in from the environment in the connection area, which also protects the products or devices as a whole from excessively high pressures.

In particular, it can be stated that a changeover element is made possible here, which can control different waterways by varying the exit position and / or the exit orientation. It flows directly into these waterways without any seals. The channels can be laid out according to the jet pump principle so that no water escapes under operating conditions. This type of flow is also possible for the inlet of the changeover element, so that seals can be completely decoupled. The jet pump stages may then have to be coordinated with one another.

• 1: eine perspektivische Darstellung zweier Leitungsabschnitte vor deren Fügung,
• 2: die beiden Leitungsabschnitte auf 1 im gefügten Zustand,
• 3: eine weitere Ausgestaltung einer Fluidleitungsanordnung, und
• 4: eine Ausgestaltung einer Brause.

The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail with reference to the figures. It should be pointed out that the figures are of a schematic nature and are not intended to restrict the invention. Unless explicitly stated below, features relating to details of the figures can be extracted and other figures or the general description can be combined with other details. Show it:

• 1 : a perspective view of two line sections before they are joined,
• 2 : the two line sections on 1 in the joined state,
• 3 : a further embodiment of a fluid line arrangement, and
• 4th : an embodiment of a shower head.

1 . shows a fluid line arrangement 1 , which is formed with two line sections, namely a first line section 2 and a second line section 5 . Both parts are shown here cut in the middle. With regard to the first line section shown on the left 2 it can be stated that this is a single first duct section 3 having. Starting from left to right, this initially has a first channel section 3 with decreasing first channel cross-section 4th before it then remains essentially constant up to the opposite end on the right. The water should in particular along the course shown here 10 flow in later use.

The second line section shown on the right 5 initially has a plurality of collar elements 13th on which the first line section 2 guide or hold in the assembled position. This can also be understood as a kind of plug-in receptacle. The second line section 5 has a solid body in the adjoining area, with a second channel section here as well 6th with a given course 10 is shown. Here, too, the second channel cross-section applies in the area of the inflow 7th is initially larger and then in the direction of the course 10 decreases in size, in particular until a sector with a constant second line cross-section is formed again. It can also be seen that the second line section 5 a plurality of second channel sections 6th trains.

It is now possible that the two line sections 2 , 5 are joined to one another in such a way that they are aligned with one another so that they form a connection area. The nozzle 14th of the first line section 2 to an end face of the second line section 5 be positioned. The design of the contact surfaces or end faces and the connecting piece 14th and the collar elements 13th allows here an axial, translational or rotational movement, as it is arranged by the arrows.

2 now shows in cross section the assembled situation with regard to the first line section 2 and the second line section 5 . It can be seen that both line sections 2 , 5 along a (central) axis 12th are aligned with one another, the first channel section 3 first runs centrally and then is directed outwards, where it finally becomes an eccentric zone 11 forms. It can also be seen that the first channel section 3 its smallest first channel cross-section in the area of the connection area 3 having. The second channel section forms adjacent thereto 6th a second channel cross-section 7th which differs significantly, in particular is significantly larger. This creates a (discontinuous) paragraph 21 or jump formed, which is preferred for setting a pressure gradient in the connection area 8th when flowing through with water.

To the function of a changeover element 16 can be realized in this assembled position of the first line section 2 compared to the second line section 5 rotate so that the outlet 19th of the first channel section 3 with different inlets 18th different second conduit sections can be brought into agreement.

3 once again illustrates the structure of a fluid line arrangement as it can be implemented for a hand shower, for example. For this purpose there is an inlet on the left 18th provided with which the water is supplied. In the present case, water flows into a feed line section 20th , which, if necessary, the first line section 2 and / or the second line section 5 absorbs, fixes or can align to each other. In the transition area between the feed line section 20th and the first line section 2 is again a kind of plug-in receptacle 9 provided, which may also be designed according to the jet pump concept and thus a seal in the area of the contact surfaces 17th avoids. However, this is not necessarily the case here because there is a relative movement between this feed line section 20th and the first line section 2 is not absolutely necessary. This is followed by the first line section 2 on, especially with its first channel section 3 and first channel cross-section 4th . In the connection area 8th a connection in the manner of a jet pump principle is thus once again implemented, with the transition from the first channel section in terms of all variations 3 to a plurality of second channel sections 6th is realized. Starting from the second channel sections 6th the water is then fed to the following components, which then cause the water to exit with a predetermined orientation, a predetermined location or a predetermined jet type. In this way, there is in particular a changeover element free of sealant 16 educated.

To illustrate this, in 4th another shower 15th shown, the left an inlet 18th for water and an outlet on the right 19th for water. The shower 15th has a changeover element shown and explained here 16 , which has an external control element 22nd is actuated, so that depending on the actuation or the position of the control element 22nd by means of the changeover element 16 different water paths can be set so that the delivery of water can take place with predetermined characteristics.

List of reference symbols

1

Fluid line arrangement

2

first line section

3rd

first channel section

4th

first channel cross-section

5

second line section

6th

second channel section

7th

second channel cross-section

8th

Connection area

9

Plug-in receptacle

10

course

11

eccentric zone

12th

axis

13th

Collar element

14th

Support

15th

shower

16

Changeover element

17th

Contact surface

18th

inlet

19th

Outlet

20th

Feed line section

21

unit volume

22nd

Control element

Claims (11)

Fluid line arrangement (1), comprising at least one first line section (2), which has a first channel section (3) with a first channel cross section (4), and a second line section (5), which has a second channel section (6) with a second channel cross section ( 7), the first line section (2) and the second line section (5) being displaceable or rotatable relative to one another and forming a connecting area (8) in which the first channel cross-section (4) differs significantly from the adjacent second channel cross-section (7). Fluid line arrangement (1) according to Claim 1 , the first line section (2) and the second line section (5) forming a plug-in receptacle (9) in the connection area (8). Fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein in the connection area (8) a connection between the first line section (2) and the second line section (5) is made free of sealant. Fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the first channel section (3) or the second channel section (6) comprises an increasing or decreasing channel cross-section (4, 7) along their course (10). Fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the first channel section (3) or the second channel section (6) forms an eccentric zone (11). Fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the first line section (2) or the second line section (5) comprises a plurality of channel sections (3, 6), and one channel section (4, 7) of the one line section (2, 5) can open into different channel sections (7, 4) of the other line section (5, 2) by moving or rotating them relative to one another. Fluid line arrangement (1) according to Claim 6 , wherein the line sections (2, 5) form part of a changeover element (16) for varying at least the water outlet location, the water outlet orientation or the water jet type. Shower (15) for dispensing water, having a changeover element (16) for varying at least the water outlet location, the water outlet orientation or the water jet type, comprising a fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims. Use of a fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 7th for smooth and watertight adjustment of water flows by moving or rotating at least one of the pipe sections (2, 5). Use after Claim 9 for setting a pressure drop in the connection area (8) when water flows through. Method for providing water by means of a fluid line arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding Claims 1 until 7th , wherein a) water flows into the first channel section (3), b) water flows out of the first channel section (3) with a predetermined first channel cross-section (4), c) Water flows into the second channel section (6) with a predetermined second channel cross-section (7), the second channel cross-section (7) being larger than the first channel cross-section (4), so that such a pressure drop can be generated that a watertight connection area ( 8) is formed, and d) water flows out of the second channel section (6).

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