DE202004021416U1 - Movement device for moving a closure element for closing a drain opening - Google Patents

Abstract

Movement device for moving a closure element (120) for closing a drain opening, in particular a drain opening of a sink (100) or a wash basin,
wherein the movement device (183) comprises an electrically operated drive element (152) and at least one actuation element (166) for triggering a movement of the closure element (120),
wherein the actuator (166) comprises a pressure sensitive piezoelectric sensor (168b).

Description

The The present invention relates to a moving device for moving a closure element for closing a drainage opening, in particular a drain opening a sink or a vanity.

Known do the washing up are equipped with a mechanical movement device for moving a closure element to close a drain opening the sink provided, which one at the sink top provided rotary actuator knob comprising a movement of the closure element of a Open position in a closed position or in the opposite direction when caused by a user the sink is turned. In this case, the rotational movement of the rotary control knob for example by means of a cable connection in a linear movement the closure element converted.

at However, such a cable connection is disadvantageous in that a Torsion of the cable in unfavorable Installation position considerably complicates the operation of the rotary control knob can. Further limits the cable connection the possibilities in terms of the design of the pipe connections of the sink. In addition, one hinders over the Rinse top prominent rotary control knob cleaning the sink and allows the attachment of lime, dirt and bacteria. Under certain circumstances can the over the sink top protruding Rotary actuator button also unfavorable to the aesthetic Overall impression of the sink effect.

Of the The present invention is therefore based on the object, a movement device for moving a closure element to close a drain opening a sink or to create a washstand, which is easy and reliable operable and a big one flexibility in the design of the sink and the connections the sink or the washbasin allowed.

These The object is achieved by a movement device according to claim 1.

Thereby, that the movement of the closure element from the open position in the closed position or in the reverse direction by means of an electrically operated Drive element is achieved, that is achieved for the movement force required by the closure element is no longer required by the user when pressed an actuating element, for example a rotary control knob, must be applied, but that this driving force regardless of User generated by the electrically operated drive element becomes. This allows a more ergonomic, simple and safe operation the movement device, especially if the user wet hands Has.

There in the movement device according to the invention no more mechanical powertrain from a rotary control knob led to the closure element must be, the movement device is easier to assemble and the arrangement, direction and training of their Components can be flexibly designed.

If the closure element reaches one of its end positions, the Movement device can be switched off by means of a limit switch.

Especially it can be provided that the movement device is an electric motor includes.

Preferably it is provided that the movement device is an electrically operated servomotor includes.

Of the Electric motor can be used to one of users of the sink or vanity general preferred relatively slow movement of the closure element to achieve with a reduction gear, in particular with a Spur gear, be provided.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can be provided that the movement device is an electromagnet includes.

Especially can be provided that the electromagnet is a movable element comprising, from a first end position, which the open position the closure element is assigned, in a second end position, which the closed position of Closing element is associated, is movable.

Further it can be provided that the movement device is a coupling device comprising, by means of which a linear movement of an element of the Electromagnet is convertible into a rotary motion.

Especially can be provided that such a coupling device a Bowden cable includes.

at a preferred embodiment of the movement device according to the invention it is further provided that the movement device is a control device for driving the drive element.

A special high flexibility with regard to the operating and control possibilities of the movement device is achieved when the controller is a programmable controller, in particular a microcontroller.

Further the movement device comprises at least one actuating element to trigger a Movement of the closure element, wherein the actuating element is a pressure-sensitive includes piezoelectric sensor.

One such actuator can be complementary For this purpose, for example, a switch, in particular a button, include.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, such an actuator for example, comprise a capacitive sensor.

at a preferred embodiment of such an actuating element is provided that the actuating element a, preferably visible side, cover for the sensor comprises.

Around to achieve that capacity change detectable in the area above the cover by the sensor is, is advantageously provided that the cover of a dielectric material is formed.

alternative or in addition to a capacitive sensor can also be provided that the actuating element a pressure-sensitive sensor.

Especially it can be provided that the actuating element is a piezoelectric sensor includes.

Around a false trip a pressure-sensitive sensor by a compressive stress of the sink outside the detection range of the sensor to avoid can be provided be that the actuator one relative to the sink or the wash basin comprises movable cover. The exercise of a Pressure on the cover then dissolves a response of the pressure-sensitive sensor, while the relative to the sink or the washstand movable cover so from the sink or The vanity is decoupled that a false trip through a compressive stress of another part of the sink or the washstand is excluded.

Around a false trip of the actuating element through big, on the sink or the washstand launched objects and / or by on the Top of the sink or the washstand stagnant water to avoid, is at a preferred embodiment of the movement device provided that the actuator comprises at least two sensors, the detection areas different from each other have, wherein a movement of the closure element is triggered when one of the sensors responds and the other sensor does not responds.

Around false alarms of the actuating element To avoid, it is also advantageous if the actuating element includes at least one sensor with adjustable sensitivity.

The Sensitivity can be either on the sensor itself or by means of the Control device of the movement device to be adjustable.

Around to protect a sensor from moisture and dirt can be provided in that the movement device comprises a sensor arranged in a housing.

at preferred embodiments of the movement device according to the invention is provided that the actuating element so trained and at the sink or the washstand is arranged that it does not have the Top of the actuator surrounding area of the sink or the washstand stands up. This will avoid the actuator a survey at the sink or the wash basin forms, which is the cleaning of the surface of the Sink or of the washstand and the accumulation of lime, dirt and / or bacteria.

Especially Cheap It is in this regard, if the actuator at the bottom the sink or the washstand is located where it is from pollution and Splash water is particularly well protected is.

Around the user of the sink or the washbasin in this case the position of the actuating element is preferably at the location above the actuator body the top of the sink or the washstand a mark, such as a color marker, a local survey at the sink or the watch-table or an embossing, provided to the user on the location of the actuating element points.

If the sink or the wash basin has a plurality of outflow openings, it is advantageous provided that the movement device several drive elements for moving in each case a closure element comprises a drain opening.

In particular, it can be provided that for each closure element, a drive train is present, wherein the drive trains are selectively connectable via a coupling device with a drive motor.

alternative This can also be provided that for each drive train own drive motor is available.

Around the drive elements for the closure elements of the different drainage holes independently actuate to be able to can be provided that the movement device more actuators includes, with each actuator in each case the movement of a this actuator associated Locking element triggered is.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can also be provided that the movement device at least an actuator with which optionally the movement of one of at least two shutter elements can be triggered is. In this way, the number of actuators to be provided reduced.

In In this case, for example, be provided that the actuating element is operable in at least two different types of actuation, each type of actuation each of a movement of the respective type of actuation associated closure element triggers.

So For example, it may be provided that at least two of the types of actuation of the actuating element in terms of the duration of the action of a user on the actuator differ.

Especially could be provided that at a long operating time of the actuating element the one closure element and with a short operating time another closure element is moved.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can also be provided that at least two of the types of actuation in terms of the number of within a given time interval successive actions of a user on the actuator differ from each other.

So could be provided that a single action of a user a movement of a closure element triggers while two within a predetermined period of time successive Einwirkungsvorgänge a User trigger the movement of another shutter element.

The Movement device according to the invention advantageously has an additional overflow protection function, if the movement device comprises at least one sensor, the upon reaching a predetermined level in a tank the Sink or the washstand a movement of the pelvis associated closure element in the open position triggers.

When such an overflow sensor Preferably, a capacitive sensor is used by the capacity change near the sensor due to the in the detection range of the overflow protection sensor increased water an actuating signal triggers.

Especially can be provided that the drive element is controlled so that it moves the closure element in an open position, when the level in the basin exceeds a first threshold, and that the drive element, the closure element in a closed position moves when the level in the pool is a second threshold falls below, with the second threshold being lower than the first threshold. Because of that, the first and the second Threshold value are different, is thereby a switching hysteresis achieves a stable switching behavior of the overflow sensor, comprising the drive element and a control device for the drive element Loop has.

This is it furthermore favorable, when the overflow sensor generates a signal that indicates whether the level is in the pool above the first threshold or below the threshold second threshold.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can be provided that at least two overflow sensors are arranged on the tank, wherein a first overflow sensor generates a signal, from which it can be seen whether the water level is above the first threshold is located, and a second overflow sensor Signal generated from which it can be seen whether the level below the second threshold.

Furthermore, it can be provided in a particular embodiment of the invention that the drive element is controlled so that it moves the closure element in a first open position, when the water level in the basin exceeds a first threshold, and that the drive element moves the closure element in a second open position when the level in the basin exceeds a second threshold, wherein the second threshold is above the first threshold and in the second open position the drain is opened wider than in the first Open position.

there should a drain opening even then as "continue open "apply when while the size of the shared drain opening between the two open positions not changed, but the shutter element further away from the drain opening in the second open position located as in the first open position, allowing access to the drain opening for the outflowing Water is relieved and thus the water can drain faster.

at this embodiment of the invention, the water level in the basin finely regulated and the pelvic volume better utilized become.

in this connection In particular, it can be provided that the overflow sensor generates a signal, from which it can be seen whether the water level in the basin above the first threshold or above the second threshold lies.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can also be provided that at least two overflow sensors are arranged on the tank, wherein a first overflow sensor generates a signal, from which it can be seen whether the water level is above the first threshold is located, and a second overflow sensor Signal generated from which it can be seen whether the level above the second threshold.

Further can be provided in a particular embodiment of the invention be that the drive element is controlled so that it is the closure element moved to an open position and for a given minimum opening time leaves in the open position, when the level in the pool exceeds a threshold. In this way, a stable switching behavior of the movement device even if a digital overflow sensor is used, which only the presence of water in the detection area the overflow sensor indicates that information about the level of the water level can not be derived from the sensor signal are.

In In this case, it is further advantageously provided that the drive element is controlled so that it closes the element after the expiry of Minimum opening time in a closed position moves when the water level in the pool after the minimum opening time falls below the threshold.

Around to prevent an overflow sensor from passing a sensor signal caused by water splashing and / or momentarily hochschwappendes Water triggered has been an unnecessary opening of the drain opening causes, it can be provided that at least two overflow sensors are arranged on the basin, wherein a movement of the closure element is triggered by the drive element only if at least two these overflow sensors an elevated one Show water level in the pool.

Especially Cheap in this case it is when the at least two overflow sensors are at each other different side walls of the pelvis are arranged.

Around a user of the sink or the washbasin over keep the operating state of the moving device informed, is it cheap when the moving means a signaling device with a signal generator which generates a signal perceivable by a user when the closure element is moved by means of the drive element.

Especially Cheap it is when the signaling device is a user perceivable signal generated when the shutter member due to a signal of an overflow sensor is moved, so without the user the movement of the closure element by pressing an actuating device itself has caused.

A such signaling device can in particular be an optical signal transmitter include.

alternative or in addition For this purpose, it can be provided that the signaling device has an acoustic Signaling device includes.

Around the signal transmitter against contamination and against the ingress of moisture to protect, is preferably provided that the signal generator on the bottom a sink or a washstand is arranged.

Around the user as possible detailed about the to inform each operating state of the movement device, is it cheap if the signal generator has at least two, preferably at least three, produces different signals, the different operating states of the Movement device are assigned.

at a particular embodiment of the movement device according to the invention can be further provided that the moving means at least an actuator to trigger a movement of the closure element and one with the actuating element connected control device, which in a "teach" mode switchable in which is a user-preferred type of actuation of the actuating element is adjustable.

If the "Teach" mode is switched on is, the user can the sink or the washstand his way of actuating the actuator itself adjust, that is the controller "learns" in the "teach" mode whether the user For example, a short or a long contact time with the actuator preferred to actuate the Triggering movement device.

For this When the "Teach" mode is switched on, the user repeats his preferred mode of operation of the actuating element several times in succession, wherein the control device in each case the length of duration of operation registered.

To Switching from "Teach" mode to normal Working mode of the controller, the controller reacts only then on an operation the actuator, when the operation time within a given tolerance matches the "learned" during the "teach" mode operation periods.

Except one preferred operating time can in "Teach" mode, for example also a preferred number of in a given time interval successive actuation pulses of be "learned" the control device.

claim 41 is on a sink or a washstand addressed, the or the at least one drain opening and a closure element for closing the at least one drainage opening and a movement device according to the invention for Moving the closure element for closing the drain opening comprises.

Further Features and advantages of the invention are the subject of the following Description and the drawings of exemplary embodiments.

In show the drawings:

1 a schematic representation of a movement device for moving a closure element for closing the drain opening of a sink, which comprises a control device, an actuator, a power supply and a drive device for the closure element;

2 a schematic perspective view of a sink with a movement device for moving the closure element for closing the drain opening;

3 a schematic plan view from below of the sink 2 ;

4 a schematic view from behind the sink from the 2 and 3 ;

5 a schematic side view of the left of the sink from the 2 to 4 ;

6 a schematic side view of the right of the sink from the 2 to 5 ;

7 a schematic section through the sink from the 2 to 6 in the region of an actuating device of the movement device of the sink;

8th an enlarged view of the area I from 7 ;

9 a schematic plan view of a two-zone sensor array;

10 a schematic section through a pressure-sensitive actuator;

11 a schematic side view of a drain valve assembly comprising a drain opening with a closure element and a servomotor for moving the closure element, wherein the closure element is in a closed position;

12 a schematic section through the drain valve assembly 11 , wherein the closure element is in a closed position;

13 one of the 11 corresponding representation, wherein the closure element is in an open position;

14 one of the 12 corresponding representation, wherein the closure element is in an open position;

15 a schematic representation of a second embodiment of a movement device for moving a closure element for closing the drain opening of a sink, wherein the movement means comprises an electromagnet as a drive element;

16 a schematic perspective view of a sink with the second embodiment of a movement device;

17 a further perspective view of a sink with the second embodiment of a moving means;

18 a top view from below of the sink from the 16 and 17 ;

19 a schematic view from behind the sink from the 16 to 18 ;

20 a schematic side view of the left of the sink from the 16 to 19 ;

21 a schematic side view of the right of the sink from the 16 to 20 ;

22 a schematic section through a basin of a sink with a third embodiment of a movement device with an overflow sensor;

23 a schematic section through a basin of a sink with a fourth embodiment of a movement device with two superimposed overflow sensors;

24 a schematic section through a basin of a sink with a fifth embodiment of a movement device with two arranged at the same height overflow sensors; and

25 a schematic section through a basin of a sink with a sixth embodiment of a movement device with two overflow sensors and a signal generator.

Same or functionally equivalent Elements are designated in all figures with the same reference numerals.

One in the 1 to 14 shown as a whole with 100 designated sink comprises a substantially horizontal flushing surface 102 in which a main basin 104 and a smaller and less deep additional basin 106 are arranged and about which one behind the additional basin 106 arranged battery bank 107 rises.

The additional basin 106 is at its bottom with a drain hole 108 Mistake.

The main pool 104 is at its bottom with a drain hole 110 Mistake.

How best of the 12 and 14 It can be seen, is the drain opening 110 of the main basin 104 on the ground 126 a drain hole recess 112 arranged, which are different from the ground 114 a closure element receiving recess 116 from downwards.

The closure element receiving recess 116 turns in turn from the ground 118 of the main basin 104 out down.

The drainage opening 110 is by means of a closure element 120 closed, which is substantially rotationally symmetrical about a vertical closure element axis 122 is trained.

The closure element 120 comprises a substantially cylindrical closure element main body 124 , which has a central through hole in the bottom 126 the drain hole recess 112 interspersed.

The central through hole at the bottom 126 the drain hole recess 112 is from several more through holes 128 surrounded by which water from the drain hole recess 112 down into an angled drain pipe 130 can escape.

The upper portion of the closure element main body 124 is collar shaped by a strainer element 132 surround. The strainer basket element 132 is with its circumference equidistantly distributed through sieve openings 134 Mistake.

Below the strainer basket element 132 is a the closure element main body 124 likewise collar-like surrounding sealing collar 136 arranged, from the outer edge of a sealing sleeve 136 annular surrounding, elastic sealing lip 138 projects.

How out 12 can be seen, lies this lip 138 in the closed position of the closure element 120 at the inner edge of the ground 114 the closure member receiving recess 116 Thus, in the closed position prevents water from the closure element receiving recess 116 into the drain hole recess 112 arrives.

The closure element 120 , the shutter element receiving recess 116 and the drain hole recess 112 together form a drain valve arrangement 139 ,

Below the ground 126 the drain hole recess 112 is the closure element main body 124 in a hollow cylindrical retaining sleeve 140 along the closure element axis 122 slidably guided.

At the bottom 142 of the closure element main body 124 grasps a lever 144 on, which rotatably with a about its axis of rotation 146 rotatable rotary shaft 148 connected is.

The rotary shaft 148 is by means of an electric servomotor 150 (please refer 11 and 13 ) to a rotational movement about the axis of rotation 146 drivable.

The electric servomotor 150 forms a drive unit 152 for the closure element 120 . which by means of power supply lines 154 . 156 with a control device 158 (please refer 1 ) connected is.

The control device 158 includes one in a housing 160 arranged programmable microcontroller.

The control device 158 is via signal lines 162 . 164 with an actuating device 165 connected, which is an actuator 166 includes, for example, at the bottom of the battery bank 107 is arranged.

The actuator 166 includes a sensor 168 for example as a capacitive sensor 168a or as a piezoelectric sensor 168b can be trained.

As in 1 illustrated, it can be provided that the actuating element 166 a housing 170 includes, in which the sensor 168 on a sensor board 169 is arranged and which in a matching recess 172 at the bottom of the sink 100 is used.

This recess 172 In particular, it may be an additional faucet hole bore, which anyway at the sink 100 usually available.

The housing 170 For example, it may be formed as a substantially cylindrical plastic housing, which by press fit in the recess 172 is determined.

Alternatively or in addition to a definition by press-fitting can also be provided that the housing 170 to the bottom of the sink 100 is glued.

Furthermore, it can be provided that the housing 170 by means of screws and / or rivets, which are in at the bottom of the sink 100 engage provided mounting holes, at the bottom of the sink 100 is determined.

When it comes to the sink 100 is a sink cast from a plastic material or a composite material, it may be provided that to the bottom of the sink 100 an additional retaining lug is cast on which the housing 170 is determined by a suitable fastening means, such as a screw or a fixing pin.

For use on a sink 100 From a plastic material or a composite material is particularly suitable a capacitive sensor 168a , Such a capacitive sensor senses a capacitance change that is caused by a user of the sink 100 a body part, for example a finger, in the detection area of the sensor 168 brings.

In order for the capacitive sensor to detect the change in capacitance caused by the user's finger, it is necessary for there to be a difference between the sensor 168a and the detection region is arranged a dielectric medium which is not electrically conductive.

A plastic material or a composite material meets this requirement, so the capacitive sensor 168a without further precautions simply at the bottom of a sink 100 can be arranged from such a material.

In the case of a sink 100 , which is made of an electrically conductive material, in particular of a chromium-nickel stainless steel, must be the sink 100 be provided with a through hole into which a dielectric material, such as a glass ceramic disc, is inserted around the sensor disposed below the dielectric material 168a to protect against environmental influences, in particular from splash water, and at the same time the detection of a change in capacitance in the detection area 174 allow the sensor.

In this case, the sensor can 168 or a housing 170 in which the sensor 168 is arranged, fixed to the disc of the dielectric material, for example glued to this disc or screwed, are.

To prevent the capacitive sensor 168 triggered by splashing, which in the detection area 174 passes, the sensitivity of the sensor 168 set so that it only triggers an actuating signal to the control device 158 when it has a capacitance change in the detection range over a triggering threshold 174 Detects how they touch the top of the sink 100 in the detection area 174 is generated with a finger of a user.

To prevent an actuating signal from the sensor 168 unintentionally triggered by the placement of larger objects, such as pots, cloths, etc., or by a water layer on the sink top, the capacitive sensor 168a be designed as a two-zone sensor, with an inner sensor, which changes a capacitance in a central, circular detection area 174a detected, and with an external sensor, which a capacitance change in a the inner detection area 174a annular outer detection area 174b detected.

Only becomes the inner detection area of a user 174a touched, so only the inner sensor triggers an actuation signal, which via the signal lines 162 . 164 to the microcontroller of the control device 158 is transmitted.

If both detection areas 174a and 174b are touched by a larger object or by water located on the sink top, both the inner and the outer sensor respectively generate an actuation signal which is transmitted to the microcontroller. In this case, the microcontroller ignores the actuation signals as it does not respond to proper actuation of the actuator 166 are attributed.

Likewise, the microcontroller ignores any actuation signal only from the outer sensor due to a touch of the outer detection region 174b is produced.

Passes the sink 100 From a metallic conductive material, such as a chromium-nickel steel, so is preferably a piezoelectric crystal sensor 168b used at the bottom of the sink 100 is arranged and responds to pressure by the (relatively thin) material of the sink 100 is transmitted.

In this case, caused by the shift of lattice planes in the piezoelectric crystal against each other, an electric current, which as an electrical signal via the signal lines 162 . 164 to the microcontroller of the controller 158 is transmitted.

At a sink 100 From a relatively thin material, the same bends over a large area at a selective pressure stress, which is why a piezocrystal sensor possibly also by a selective pressure stress in a lying outside the sensor field area of the sink 100 could be activated.

To exclude this source of error, as in 10 shown - be provided that the actuating element 166 a movable tile 176 , For example, of metal, comprising, which in a correspondingly shaped cutout of the sink 100 used and relative to the sink 100 (substantially perpendicular to the top of the sink) is movable, so that the platelet 176 one by the double arrow 178 illustrated compressive force, but not to the sink 100 forwards.

At the bottom of the plate 176 is the piezocrystal sensor 168b arranged, which a compressive stress of the plate 176 detected.

As in this embodiment of the actuating element 166 the tile 176 with the sensor 168b from the rest of the top of the sink 100 is decoupled, is a false triggering of the sensor 168 due to a compressive stress of the sink 100 outside the tile 176 locked out.

In any case, that is to say when using a capacitive or a piezocrystal sensor 168 , the microcontroller receives the control device 158 over the signal lines 162 . 164 when the sensor responds 168 a signal, depending on which of the microcontroller the servomotor 150 controls.

The response of the microcontroller to that of the sensor 168 The coming signal depends on the software installed in the microcontroller.

The microcontroller can be adjusted so that the sensitivity of the sensor 168 can be influenced.

In particular, it can be set over which minimum period of time the sensor 168 must respond, to the microcontroller actuation of the servomotor 150 is controlled.

The microcontroller, the electric servomotor 150 and the actuator 166 be connected by means of a connectable to the public grid power supply 180 that has a power cord 182 with the control device 158 is connected, supplied with the required electrical power.

The drive unit 152 , the control device 158 , the actuating device 165 and the power supply 180 together form a movement device 183 for moving the closure element 120 the drain valve arrangement 139 ,

In a variant of the movement device can also be provided that the microcontroller and the sensor 168 not housed in different but in a common housing.

The microcontroller of the control device 158 may have a so-called "teach" mode, which is switched on and off by a switch arranged for example on the microcontroller.

When the "Teach" mode is turned on, the user can use the sink 100 his type of actuation of the actuator 166 set itself, that is, the microcontroller "learns" in the "Teach" mode, whether the user prefers a short or a long contact time with the sensor field to to trigger an actuation of the movement device.

For this purpose, the user repeats his preferred type of actuation of the actuating element when the "Teach" mode is activated 166 several times in succession, wherein the microcontroller registers the length of the operating time.

After switching off the "Teach" mode, the microcontroller only reacts to an actuation of the actuating element 166 if the actuation time within a predetermined tolerance matches the "taught-in" during the "Teach" mode operation periods.

When the microcontroller of the controller 158 from the actuator 166 receives an actuation signal which is recognized as a regular actuation signal due to the conditions defined in the control program of the microcontroller, the microcontroller controls a movement of the closure element on the basis of this actuation signal 120 by means of the electric servomotor 150 by removing the power supply lines 154 . 156 of the servomotor 150 containing circuit is closed.

The polarity of the servomotor supply circuit is set by the microcontroller so that the rotary shaft 148 after closing the circuit in the direction around the axis of rotation 146 rotates which the closure element 120 from its current position (for example, the one in the 11 and 12 shown closed position) in the other position (for example, in the 13 and 14 shown open position) moves.

The electric servomotor 150 is set to be the rotary shaft 148 comparatively slowly, for example at a rotational speed of about 5 revolutions per minute. This slow rotation of the rotary shaft 148 is achieved by that between the servomotor 150 and the rotary shaft 148 a transmission with a very low ratio of, for example, 1000: 1 is connected. The comparatively slow rotation and therefore slow movement of the closure element 120 is used by users of the sink 100 generally more pleasant than a quick opening or closing.

The angular distance between the positions of the rotary shaft 148 and the lever 144 in the closed position on the one hand and the open position on the other hand, for example, is about 40 °.

In the closed position and in the open position of the closure element 120 the lever hits 144 each to a lower or upper stop.

When reaching the upper or lower stop pulls the electric actuator 150 by blocking the rotary shaft 148 a higher current. This current increase is by the microcontroller of the controller 158 registered, whereupon the microcontroller, the electric servomotor 150 shuts off by opening the supply circuit.

The response of the microcontroller to the current increase occurs within a very short time, for example within a few milliseconds, which ensures that the electric servomotor 150 is not unnecessarily burdened.

Alternatively or in addition to a shutdown of the servomotor 150 due to an increase in current can also be provided that the servomotor 150 by means of limit switches, in particular end buttons, which are actuated upon reaching the closed position or the open position, is turned off.

After opening the circuit polt the microcontroller of the controller 158 the polarity of the supply circuit of the servomotor 150 in order for the servomotor to move 150 at the next actuation of the actuator 166 turns in the other direction (after a closing operation of the closure element 120 So back to the open position and after an opening operation of the closure element 120 back to the closed position).

When electric servomotor, for example, a DC miniature motor to be used as he was called under the designation 1.61.065.428 of the company Bühler Motor GmbH in 90212 Nuremberg, Germany, is distributed. This engine is equipped with a spur gear Mistake.

In a variant of the above-described embodiment of a movement device for the closure element 120 a sink 100 could also be provided that the drain opening 108 of the additional basin 106 the sink 100 is also provided with a closure element by means of an additional drive unit, which is also from the control device 158 is driven, from the closed position into the open position or from the open position to the closed position is movable.

To the drive units of the closure elements for the drain opening 110 of the main basin 104 and for the drainage hole 108 of the additional basin 106 can operate independently, it can be provided that the Betä actuating device 165 the movement device 183 two sensors 168 comprising, each one of the closure elements 120 are assigned, so that the actuation of the one sensor, a movement of the closure element 120 for the drainage hole 110 of the main basin 104 and the operation of the other sensor, a movement of the closure element for the drain opening 108 of the additional basin 106 triggers.

Alternatively, it may be provided that only one sensor 168 for the operation of both closure elements 120 is provided, wherein by the type of operation of the sensor 168 a distinction is made, which of the closure elements 120 to be moved (so-called "intelligent control").

In particular, it could be provided that during a long actuation period of the sensor 168 the one closure element and with a short operating time the other closure element is moved.

Alternatively, it could also be provided that the microcontroller of the control device 158 Based on the number in a short time successive actuating actions recognizes which of the closure elements 120 to be moved. Thus it could be provided that a single actuating action a movement of the closure element 120 for the drainage hole 110 of the main basin 104 triggers, during two consecutive actuating actions within a predetermined period of time, a movement of the closure element for the outflow opening 108 of the additional basin 106 trigger.

Furthermore, the movement device 183 for the closure element or elements 120 the sink 100 in addition to the actuation by means of the actuating element 166 by automatic actuation upon reaching a predetermined water level in the respective associated pool 104 respectively. 106 the sink 100 to be triggered.

For this purpose, an additional sensor (not shown) on the relevant pool 104 respectively. 106 mounted in place of the conventional overflow valve.

This sensor is designed as a capacitive sensor and thus serves as a water detector, which generates a change in the capacity by the rise of the water level in the vicinity of the sensor, an electrical signal which is sent to the microcontroller of the control device 158 is forwarded.

If this signal exceeds a predetermined minimum duration and thus indicates that the water in the pool in question 104 respectively. 106 permanently located at the level of the additional sensor, the microcontroller controls the controller 158 the electric servomotor 150 the relevant drive unit 152 so that the relevant closure element 120 by rotation of the rotary shaft 148 is moved into the open position.

On this way will the drain released from the basin concerned, so that the water from this Cymbals can drain and overflow the water is prevented.

One in the 15 to 21 illustrated second embodiment of a moving device 183 for the sink 100 differs from the first embodiment described above only in that the drive unit 152 for driving the movement of the closure element 120 instead of an electric servomotor 150 an electromagnet 184 comprising a movable armature (not shown) which is activated when the electromagnet is switched on 184 by means of the microcontroller of the control device 158 - Depending on the polarity of the supply circuit of the electromagnet set by the microcontroller 184 - Is moved in one of two end positions, of which a first of the closed position of the closure element 120 and a second of the open position of the closure element 120 assigned.

The moving armature of the electromagnet 184 is by means of a Bowden cable 186 with the rotary shaft 148 connected, wherein the rotary shaft end of the wire core of the Bowden cable 186 in the circumferential direction on the circumference of the rotary shaft 148 engages, allowing a linear movement of the wire core of the Bowden cable 186 a rotation of the rotary shaft 148 around the axis of rotation 146 entails.

In this way, the closure element 120 by means of the electromagnet 184 and the Bowden cable 186 in the second embodiment also moved from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position back to the open position when the actuating element 166 is suitably operated or if one on one of the pelvis 104 . 106 arranged overflow protection sensor responds, as in the first embodiment by means of the servomotor 150 ,

Also in this embodiment, after each movement of the closure element 120 the polarity of the supply circuit of the electromagnet 184 from the microcontroller of the controller 158 vice versa, to the direction of movement of the closure element 120 to change for the next movement of the same.

Otherwise, the second embodiment of a movement device is correct 183 for the closure element 120 the drain opening 110 the sink 100 in terms of structure and function with the first embodiment, to the above description, reference is made in this regard.

An in 22 illustrated third embodiment of a moving device 183 for the closure element 120 the drain opening 110 of the pelvis 104 the sink 100 differs from the two embodiments described above in that the movement device 183 alternatively to or in addition to an actuated by a user of the sink actuator 166 an overflow sensor 188 includes, in the upper part of a side wall 190 of the main basin 104 the sink 100 is arranged.

The overflow sensor 188 is formed as a capacitive sensor, which via a (not shown) signal line with the control device 158 the movement device 182 is connected and a sensor signal to the control device 158 sends when the water level 192 of the water in the basin 104 into the detection area of the overflow sensor 188 increases.

Alternatively or additionally, the overflow sensor 188 also be designed as a resistance measuring sensor comprising two electrodes inserted in a desired height in a side wall or in two side walls of the basin, which electrodes are placed at different electrical potentials, so that a current flows as soon as the water in the basin 104 has risen to the height at which the electrodes are arranged.

The overflow sensor 188 can be designed in particular as an analog sensor whose sensor signal as a function of the level 192 of the water in the basin 104 varies, so that the amount of the sensor signal in each case a certain level 192 can be assigned.

Exceeds the water level 192 (And thus the amount of the sensor signal) a first threshold, so controls the controller 158 the drive unit 152 the actuator 165 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved from the closed position to an open position, in which water from the basin 104 through the drainage hole 110 can expire.

Sinks as a result of water draining from the basin 104 the water level 192 below a second threshold lower than the first threshold, the controller controls 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved back from the open position to the closed position, in which the closure element 120 the drain opening 110 so closes that no more water from the basin 104 flows.

The fact that the first and the second threshold value are different from each other, a switching hysteresis is achieved, which provides a stable switching behavior of the overflow sensor 188 , the control device 158 and the drive unit 152 comprehensive control cycle results.

Alternatively or additionally, it may also be provided that a switching hysteresis by the provision of a dead time (by means of a dead time member in the evaluation circuit of the sensor or in the control device 158 ) is produced.

Alternatively, it can also be provided that the overflow sensor 188 is designed as a digital sensor which is connected to the control device 158 sends a sensor signal of constant magnitude, as long as the level 192 in the detection area of the overflow sensor 188 located.

As soon as such a digital overflow sensor 188 to the controller 158 reports that the water level 192 in the basin 104 into the detection area of the overflow sensor 188 has increased, controls the controller 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved to the open position and remains in the open position during a minimum opening time. When the overflow sensor 188 after expiry of the minimum opening time still reports that water is in its detection range, so remains the closure element 120 in the open position for a further predetermined period of time, after which in turn the signal of the overflow sensor 188 is queried. When the overflow sensor 188 after expiry of the predetermined minimum opening time or after the expiry of a further predetermined period of time, no more presence of water in its detection area is reported, then the control device controls 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved back into the closed position.

Also in this way, a stable switching behavior of the moving device 183 achieved.

The activation of the drive unit 152 by the control device 158 can in both cases, so when using an analog or a digital overflow sensor 188 , with or without time delay.

If a sink 100 has multiple basins, such as an additional basin 106 Next the main basin 104 so each of these basins can be equipped with one overflow sensor each 188 be provided, which when exceeding a threshold value for the level 192 in the basin in question, a movement of the closure element 120 of the pelvis in question in an open position triggers.

With the help of the overflow sensor 188 is an overflow of water from the with the help of the overflow sensor in question 188 monitored sink of the sink 100 reliably prevented. With the help of an overflow sensor 188 monitored pool can therefore account for the usual overflow opening.

An in 23 illustrated fourth embodiment of the movement device 183 differs from the third embodiment described above in that on a monitored pool 104 the sink 100 two overflow sensors 188 and 194 at different heights on one of the side walls 190 of the pelvis 104 are arranged. Alternatively, the two overflow sensors could 188 . 194 also on different side walls of the basin 104 be arranged.

For both overflow sensors 188 . 194 it can be either an analog or a digital sensor.

Reports the lower overflow sensor 194 to the controller that the water level 192 has risen to its detection range, then controls the controller 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved to a first open position, in which the drain opening 110 partly for the outflow of water from the basin 104 is released.

The level rises 192 still on, so that the upper overflow sensor 188 reports that the water level 192 has reached its detection range, then controls the controller 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved to a second open position, in which the drain opening 110 completely for the drainage of water from the basin 104 is released.

When the water level 192 then dropped so far that none of the overflow sensors 188 . 194 more the presence of water in its detection area reports, so controls the controller 158 the drive unit 152 so on, that the closure element 120 is moved back into the closed position.

These embodiments offer the advantage that the level 192 in the basin 104 finely regulated and the pelvic volume can be better utilized.

Furthermore, the movement of the closure element is used 120 in the first open position as an advance warning to the user of the sink, the same on the excessive increase of the water level 192 draws attention.

Such a fine adjustment of the level 192 can also work with a single analog overflow sensor 188 be realized when the control device 158 as a function of the sensor signal upon reaching a first threshold value, a movement of the closure element 120 in the first open position and upon reaching a second threshold value lying above the first threshold value, a movement of the closure element 120 in the second open position triggers.

An in 24 illustrated fifth embodiment of the movement device 183 is different from the one in 22 illustrated third embodiment in that on the monitored pool 104 in addition to the first overflow sensor 188 a second overflow sensor 196 is provided, which at the same height as the first overflow sensor 188 on one of the side wall 190 opposite another side wall 198 of the pelvis 104 is arranged.

In this embodiment, the closure element 120 only moved to the open position when both the overflow sensor 188 as well as the overflow sensor 196 report the presence of water in their respective detection areas. The sensor signals of both overflow sensors 188 . 196 be from the controller 158 thus logically ANDed.

This will prevent a single overflow sensor 188 or 196 by a sensor signal that has been triggered by splashes of water and / or briefly hochppappendes water, an unnecessary opening of the drain opening 110 causes.

In a similar way could also at the in 23 illustrated fourth embodiment of each of the two overflow sensors 188 . 194 one at a time, at the same height on another side wall of the pool 104 arranged overflow sensor may be provided, in which case the sensor signal of one of the overflow sensors 188 respectively. 194 only then from the controller 158 is taken into account when it comes from the overflow sensor in question 188 respectively. 194 respectively assigned second sensor is confirmed.

An in 25 illustrated sixth embodiment of the movement device 183 under separates from the in 2 illustrated fifth embodiment in that the movement device 183 in addition a signal generator 200 which informs a user of the sink by a signal perceivable by the same, that the closure element 120 by means of the drive unit 152 is moved.

The signal generator 200 may be an optical signal generator which (for example by means of an LED) generates a light signal. To the signal generator 200 To protect against splashing, it is preferably provided that the signal generator 200 at the bottom of the sink 100 is arranged. In the case of an optical signal transmitter 200 is then preferably the above the signal generator 200 lying area of the sink 100 formed with a sufficiently small material thickness to light from the signal generator 200 through the sink 100 let through.

Alternatively or additionally, the signal transmitter 200 be designed as an acoustic signal generator.

Preferably, the signal generator 200 designed so that it, depending on the respective operating state of the movement device 183 , can produce different signals.

• – leiser Piepton, während das Verschlusselement aufgrund einer Betätigung der Betätigungseinrichtung 165 durch den Benutzer der Spüle 100 in die Offenstellung oder in die Schließstellung bewegt wird;
• – lauter Piepton als Vorwarnung für den Benutzer, wenn der Pegelstand 192 im Becken 104 einen unteren Schwellenwert erreicht hat;
• – lauter Doppelpiepton, wenn der Pegelstand 192 im Becken 104 einen oberen Schwellenwert erreicht hat und/oder wenn das Verschlusselement 120 von der Antriebseinheit 152 automatisch, das heißt ohne Betätigung der Betätigungseinrichtung 165 durch den Benutzer, aufgrund einer Meldung von einem der Überlaufsensoren 188, 196 in die Offenstellung oder in die Schließstellung bewegt wird.

For example, it can be provided that an acoustic signal generator 200 the following signals as a function of the respective operating state of the movement device 183 generated:

• - Silent beeping while the closure element due to actuation of the actuator 165 by the user of the sink 100 is moved to the open position or in the closed position;
• - loud beep as an advance warning to the user when the water level 192 in the basin 104 has reached a lower threshold;
• - loud double beep when the water level 192 in the basin 104 has reached an upper threshold and / or if the closure element 120 from the drive unit 152 automatically, that is without actuation of the actuator 165 by the user, due to a message from one of the overflow sensors 188 . 196 is moved into the open position or in the closed position.

In the case of an optical signal transmitter 200 the same is preferably in the vicinity of the actuating element 166 the actuator 165 at the sink 100 arranged, because this area of the sink applies the special attention of the user.

Claims (41)

Movement device for moving a closure element ( 120 ) for closing a drain opening, in particular a drain opening of a sink ( 100 ) or a washstand, the movement device ( 183 ) an electrically operated drive element ( 152 ) and at least one actuating element ( 166 ) for triggering a movement of the closure element ( 120 ), wherein the actuating element ( 166 ) a pressure-sensitive piezoelectric sensor ( 168b ). Movement device according to claim 1, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) an electric motor ( 150 ). Moving device according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) an electrically operated servomotor ( 150 ). Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) an electromagnet ( 184 ). Movement device according to claim 4, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) comprises a coupling device, by means of which a linear movement of an element of the electromagnet ( 184 ) is convertible into a rotational movement. Moving device according to claim 5, characterized in that the coupling device is a Bowden cable ( 186 ). Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) a control device ( 158 ) for driving the drive element ( 152 ). Moving device according to claim 7, characterized in that the control device ( 158 ) comprises a programmable controller, in particular a microcontroller. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the actuating element ( 183 ) comprises a switch, in particular a button. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ) a capacitive sensor ( 168a ). Movement device according to claim 10, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ), preferably on the visible side, cover for the sensor ( 168a ). Moving device according to claim 11, characterized in that that the cover is formed of a dielectric material. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ) a relative to a sink ( 100 ) or relative to a washstand movable cover ( 176 ). Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ) at least two sensors ( 168 ), the mutually different detection areas ( 174a . 174b ), wherein a movement of the closure element ( 120 ) is triggered when one of the sensors responds and the other sensor does not respond. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ) at least one sensor ( 168 ) with adjustable sensitivity. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) one in a housing ( 160 ) arranged sensor ( 168 ). Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) a plurality of drive elements for moving in each case a closure element ( 120 ) a drain opening ( 108 . 110 ). Movement device according to claim 17, characterized in that the movement device comprises a plurality of actuating elements ( 166 ), wherein with each actuating element ( 166 ) in each case the movement of a closure element associated with this actuating element ( 120 ) is triggered. Movement device according to one of claims 17 or 18, characterized in that the movement device comprises at least one actuating element ( 166 ), with which optionally the movement of one of at least two closure elements ( 120 ) is triggered. Movement device according to claim 19, characterized in that the actuating element ( 166 ) is operable in at least two mutually different types of actuation, wherein each actuation in each case a movement of a respective actuation type associated closure element ( 120 ) triggers. Movement device according to claim 20, characterized in that at least two of the types of actuation of the actuating element ( 166 ) in terms of the duration of the action of a user on the actuator ( 166 ). Movement device according to one of claims 20 or 21, characterized in that at least two of the types of actuation with respect to the number of within a predetermined time interval successive actions of a user on the actuator ( 166 ) differ from each other. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) at least one overflow sensor ( 188 ), which upon reaching a predetermined level in a tank ( 104 . 106 ) a sink ( 100 ) or a washstand a movement of the basin associated closure element ( 120 ) triggers. Movement device according to claim 23, characterized in that the drive element ( 152 ) is controlled so that it the closure element ( 120 ) moves to an open position when the level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) exceeds a first threshold and that it is the closure element ( 120 ) moves to a closed position when the level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) falls below a second threshold, the second threshold being lower than the first threshold. Movement device according to claim 24, characterized in that the overflow sensor ( 188 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) is above the first threshold or below the second threshold. Movement device according to one of claims 24 or 25, characterized in that at least two overflow sensors ( 188 . 194 ) on the basin ( 104 ) are arranged, wherein a first overflow sensor ( 188 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) is above the first threshold, and a second overflow sensor ( 194 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) is below the second threshold. Movement device according to one of claims 23 to 26, characterized in that the drive element ( 152 ) is controlled so that it the closure element ( 120 ) moves to a first open position when the level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) exceeds a first threshold and that it is the closure element ( 120 ) moves to a second open position when the level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) exceeds a second threshold, the second threshold being above the first threshold and in the second open position the drain ( 110 ) is opened further than in the first open position. Movement device according to claim 27, characterized in that the overflow sensor ( 188 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) is above the first threshold or above the second threshold. Movement device according to one of claims 27 or 28, characterized in that at least two overflow sensors ( 188 . 194 ) on the basin ( 104 ) are arranged, wherein a first overflow sensor ( 194 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) is above the first threshold, and a second overflow sensor ( 188 ) generates a signal indicating whether the water level ( 192 ) is above the second threshold. Movement device according to one of claims 23 to 29, characterized in that the drive element ( 152 ) is controlled so that it the closure element ( 120 ) is moved into an open position and left in the open position for a predetermined minimum opening time when the level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) exceeds a threshold. Movement device according to claim 30, characterized in that the drive element ( 152 ) is controlled so that it the closure element ( 120 ) moves to a closed position after the minimum opening time has elapsed, when the water level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) falls below the threshold value after the minimum opening time has elapsed. Movement device according to one of claims 23 to 31, characterized in that at least two overflow sensors ( 188 . 196 ) on the basin ( 104 ) are arranged, wherein a movement of the closure element ( 120 ) by the drive element ( 152 ) is triggered only if at least two of these overflow sensors ( 188 . 196 ) an increased water level ( 192 ) in the basin ( 104 ) Show. Moving device according to claim 32, characterized in that the at least two overflow sensors ( 188 . 196 ) on mutually different side walls ( 190 . 198 ) of the basin ( 104 ) are arranged. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 33, characterized in that the movement device ( 183 ) a signaling device with a signal generator ( 200 ), which generates a signal perceivable by a user, when the closure element ( 120 ) by means of the drive element ( 152 ) is moved. Movement device according to claim 34, characterized in that the signaling device generates a signal perceivable by a user when the closure element ( 120 ) due to a signal from an overflow sensor ( 188 ) is moved. Movement device according to one of claims 34 or 35, characterized in that the signaling device has an optical Signaling device includes. Movement device according to one of claims 34 to 36, characterized in that the signaling device an acoustic Signaling device includes. Movement device according to one of claims 34 to 37, characterized in that the signal transmitter ( 200 ) at the bottom of a sink ( 100 ) or a washstand is arranged. Movement device according to one of claims 34 to 38, characterized in that the signal transmitter ( 200 ) generates at least two, preferably at least three, different signals, the different operating states of the movement device ( 183 ) assigned. Movement device according to one of claims 1 to 39, characterized in that the movement device at least one actuating element ( 166 ) for triggering a movement of the closure element ( 120 ) and one with the actuator ( 166 ) associated control device ( 158 ), which is switchable into a "teach" mode, in which a user-preferred actuation of the actuator ( 166 ) is adjustable. Sink or washbasin, comprising at least one drainage opening ( 108 . 110 ) and a closure element ( 120 ) for closing the at least one drainage opening ( 108 . 110 ), characterized in that the sink ( 100 ) or the washstand comprises a movement device according to one of claims 1 to 40.