Vacuum wastewater device and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a vacuum wastewater device (100) having a wastewater collection container (102) in the form of a vacuum toilet, a vacuum wastewater connection (202), a wastewater valve (204) that is connected between the toilet (102) and the vacuum wastewater connection (202), at least one electrical actuator (206a, 206b, 208) that is configured to change an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100), and a control unit (106) that is configured to receive a message (902) according to a network communication protocol, the message (902) having information about a target state, and to control the at least one electrical actuator (206a, 206b, 208) according to the target state.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Vacuum wastewater device and method

[0003] Several embodiments relate to a vacuum wastewater device and a method.

[0004] Traditionally, various types of wastewater systems are used, such as vacuum toilets, downpipe toilets, or flush toilets, to dispose of and collect wastewater in a controlled manner. Unlike flush or downpipe toilets, where the removal of the waste (e.g., wastewater) is driven by gravity or hydrostatic pressure, a vacuum toilet uses negative pressure to suction the waste away. While downpipe toilets can operate with low water consumption, they always require a significant drop height, become dirty quickly, and generally struggle to maintain high hygiene standards. In contrast, a flush toilet is more hygienic but requires more water.

[0005] Vacuum toilets are hygienic and, compared to conventional flush toilets, reduce water consumption and the required drop height (or even eliminate it entirely), which gravity would otherwise have to overcome. Therefore, vacuum toilets are preferred in various applications.

[0006] Such a vacuum toilet is advantageous, for example, in small, self-sufficient applications where little or no drop height is available, or in applications where minimal water consumption is desired. Examples of such applications include means of transport such as ships, airplanes, or trains, or self-sufficient facilities such as hospitals or military installations. Various embodiments have clearly demonstrated that vacuum toilets, or vacuum wastewater systems, are also of interest for other applications, such as shopping centers or apartment buildings. This can facilitate the adoption of water-saving and hygienic toilets, particularly in areas with limited water resources, where, for example, conventional flush toilets are not used due to water scarcity.

[0007] In this context, it was recognized that a larger number of vacuum toilets requires more effort to regularly inspect, maintain, and schedule maintenance. This is due, for example, to the greater complexity of vacuum toilets and the use of vacuum, which almost always precludes amateur troubleshooting. Therefore, expensive specialist personnel are often required to carry out maintenance or repairs. Until the specialist arrives, the vacuum toilet is sometimes unusable. Reducing the duration and frequency of breakdowns thus requires a large number of personnel to regularly inspect the vacuum toilets.

[0008] According to various embodiments, a vacuum wastewater device and a method are provided which facilitates the operation of a vacuum wastewater device or a network of several vacuum wastewater devices, e.g. by facilitating fault detection and / or control of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0009] A diagnostic check of any vacuum toilet for potential faults can be performed remotely, for example, using a user's mobile phone or a service provider. Similarly, countermeasures can be initiated remotely to address potential faults.

[0010] The remotely controlled vacuum toilets, available in various designs, allow some maintenance work to be carried out remotely without having to disconnect or dismantle the toilet. Such maintenance saves service time and simplifies upkeep.

[0011] They show

[0012] Figures 1 to 4 each show a vacuum wastewater device according to different embodiments in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view;

[0013] Figures 5 and 6 each show a tabular overview according to different embodiments;

[0014] Figures 7 and 9 each show a system according to different embodiments in a schematic communication diagram; and

[0015] Figure 8 shows a method according to different embodiments in a schematic flowchart.

[0016] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which form part thereof and illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be implemented. In this context, directional terminology such as "top," "bottom," "front," "back," "anterior," "rear," etc., is used with reference to the orientation of the described figure(s). Since components of embodiments can be positioned in a number of different orientations, the directional terminology serves only for illustration and is in no way limiting. It is understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical modifications may be made without deviating from the scope of protection of the present invention.It is understood that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein can be combined with one another, unless specifically stated otherwise. The following detailed description is therefore not to be interpreted in a limiting sense, and the scope of protection of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0017] Within the scope of this description, the terms "connected," "connected," and "coupled" are used to describe both direct and indirect connections (e.g., resistive and / or electrically conductive, such as an electrically conductive connection), direct or indirect connections, and direct or indirect couplings. In the figures, identical or similar elements are designated with identical reference numerals where appropriate.

[0018] Depending on the specific embodiment, the term "coupled" or "coupling" can be understood as a connection and / or interaction (e.g., mechanical, hydrostatic, and / or electrical), whether direct or indirect. Several elements can be coupled along an interaction chain, along which the interaction (e.g., a signal) can be transmitted. For example, two coupled elements can exchange an interaction, such as a mechanical, hydrostatic, and / or electrical interaction. Depending on the specific embodiment, "coupled" can also be understood as a mechanical (e.g., physical) coupling, for example, by means of direct physical contact. A coupling can be configured to transmit a mechanical interaction (e.g., force, torque, etc.).

[0019] The following describes various steps and details of a method according to different embodiments. It can be understood that what is described (e.g., individual steps of the method) can be implemented analogously using hardware (such as a hard-wired circuit) and / or software (e.g., code segments or an entire application). For example, an application (also called a program) may be provided or be provided that includes corresponding code segments (e.g., program code) and that can be executed on a processor and / or by means of a circuit that includes the processor. The processor (or the circuit) may, for example, be part of a computing device (e.g., a mobile phone or a stationary computer).The computer system can, for example, have a large number of processors, arranged centrally within a physically connected array or decentrally linked to each other via a network. Similarly, code segments or the application can be executed on the same processor, or parts of it can be distributed across multiple processors that communicate with each other via the network.

[0020] Information processing components of the process can be implemented, for example, by means of a control device (also referred to as a control unit). Additionally, components of a device can be controlled by the control device to carry out the process.

[0021] The term "control device" (also referred to as control unit) can be understood as any type of logic-implementing entity that may, for example, have circuitry and / or a processor capable of executing software stored in a memory medium, firmware, or a combination thereof, and issuing instructions based on that software. The control device may, for example, be configured using code segments (e.g., software) to control the operation of an entity (e.g., its operating point), such as a device or an operational function.

[0022] Control can be understood as the intentional influencing of an entity (e.g., a device or a process). The entity's current state (also called the actual state) can be changed according to a specification (also called the target state). Regulation can be understood as control, but with the additional step of counteracting changes in the entity's state caused by disturbances. Visually, the control system can have a forward-directed control path and thus implement a sequential control system that converts an input variable (e.g., the specification) into an output variable. However, the control path can also be part of a control loop, thus implementing a regulation system. In contrast to purely forward-directed sequential control, regulation involves a continuous influence of the output variable on the input variable, which is effected by the control loop (feedback).In other words, control can be used as an alternative or additional to control, or alternatively, regulation can be used in addition to control. The state of the entity (also referred to as the operating point or control point) can be defined by one or more operating parameters of the entity, whose actual value corresponds to the current state of the entity and whose setpoint (also referred to as the reference value) corresponds to the target state of the entity. In control, the actual state (e.g., determined based on a measurement) is compared with the target state, and one or more operating parameters are influenced by a corresponding actuator in such a way that the deviation of the actual state from the target state of the entity is minimized.

[0023] The state of an entity (e.g., a device or process) can be specified, for example, as a point (also called an operating point or working point) in a space (also called a state space) spanned by the variable parameters of the entity (also called operating parameters). The state of the entity is thus a function of the respective value of one or more operating parameters, which therefore represent the state of the entity.

[0024] In a control system, the actual state is influenced by changing one or more operating parameters (then also referred to as manipulated variables) of the entity, for example, using an actuator. In a regulation system, the actual state is compared with the target state, and the entity is influenced by a corresponding manipulated variable (using the actuator) in such a way that the deviation of the actual state from the target state is minimized. The actual state can be determined based on a measurement (e.g., using a sensor) of one or more operating parameters (then also referred to as controlled variables).

[0025] The term "actuator" (also referred to as actuator or actuator) can be understood as a component designed to influence the current state by being controlled. The actuator can translate instructions issued by the control device (the so-called actuation) into mechanical movements or changes in physical quantities such as pressure or temperature. The actuator, for example, an electromechanical converter, can be configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy (e.g., through movement) in response to an actuation command. Examples of actuators include: a valve (or other fluid-mechanical switch), a pump, and an electrical switch (e.g., for activating or deactivating a component).

[0026] The term "processor" can be understood as any type of entity that allows the processing of data or signals. The data or signals can be processed, for example, according to at least one (i.e., one or more than one) specific function performed by the processor. A processor can be an analog circuit, a digital circuit, a mixed-signal circuit, a logic circuit, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a programmable gate array (FPGA), an integrated circuit, or any combination thereof. Any other type of implementation of the respective functions, which are described in more detail below, can also be understood as a processor or logic circuit.It is understood that one or more of the process steps described in detail herein can be executed (e.g., implemented) by a processor through one or more specific functions executed by the processor. Similarly, the process steps can be represented by code segments that are configured, when executed by the processor, to carry out the process steps.

[0027] Several fluid lines of a vacuum wastewater system can be fluidically coupled to one another, for example, by means of a valve, a seal, a coupling, a reservoir, and the like, thus forming a fluid system. For instance, the vacuum wastewater system can have one or more reservoirs, at least one of which is configured as the main reservoir (also referred to as a wastewater collection tank). The vacuum wastewater system can also have one or more connections (also referred to as operating connections), such as a vacuum wastewater connection, a pilot gas connection, and / or a water supply connection. A connection can be coupled to a corresponding mating connection, for example, by means of a thread or a flange. The connection can have a sealing feature (e.g., a sealing surface and / or a groove for receiving a gasket) by means of which the connection can be sealed externally.The vacuum drain connection can, for example, be connected to a vacuum drain system, e.g., sealed to the outside with a vacuum-tight seal. In other words, the vacuum drain connection can be designed to create a vacuum-tight connection.

[0028] In this context, a container can be understood as a hollow body. The container can have a body whose interior (also referred to as a cavity) is exposed through an opening (also referred to as the container inlet). The container can optionally have a lid (also referred to as a container cover), which is coupled to the body, for example, by means of a pivot bearing. The pivot bearing can provide the lid with several positions, allowing it to be moved between these positions. The body and the lid can be joined together (i.e., the lid is in a closed position) to enclose the interior on all sides. In other words, the lid, when closed, covers the opening. When the lid is open, the interior is exposed through the opening. The body can have one or more walls that enclose the interior on several sides (e.g., at least five).Optionally, the interior can narrow in one direction away from the opening. Furthermore, the container can have an outlet (also called a container outlet) which is fluidly coupled to the container inlet via the cavity.

[0029] The main tank can be visualized as an open end of the fluid system, accessible to the air or environment, in which the wastewater (e.g., containing feces or other waste material) is collected before being extracted from the main tank by means of a vacuum. Thus, the main tank can, for example, have at least three openings that are fluid-conducting and interconnected via the interior.

[0030] Examples of a main container include: a toilet bowl (also referred to simply as a bowl), a urinal, a shower tray, a bathtub, or similar. The aspects provided here can simplify the operation of a toilet bowl or urinal in particular. The following instructions refer specifically to a toilet bowl. However, the descriptions can also be applied analogously to other wastewater collection containers.

[0031] The provided fluid system can be configured to connect the main tank to an operating port via fluid flow, or alternatively, to disconnect (i.e., interrupt) this fluid connection. This disconnection or establishment of the fluid connection can be reversible, for example, by means of interposed valves. Examples of operating ports include: a vacuum wastewater port, configured to discharge wastewater extracted from the main tank (e.g., into a wastewater system); a water inlet port, configured to supply water (also referred to as inlet water) to the main tank; a vent port, configured to discharge gas extracted from the tank (e.g., containing fragrances); and / or a pilot gas port, configured to supply the pilot gas used to control a fluid-mechanical valve.The incoming water can be mixed in the main tank with other materials (e.g., solids such as feces) introduced through its inlet, thus forming the wastewater. Gases produced in this process can be extracted via the suction port.

[0032] More generally, a valve can enable the fluid-conducting connection of at least two components of a fluid system, between which the valve is installed, allowing them to exchange fluid (a gas and / or a liquid). Likewise, the valve can also enable the fluid-conducting connection to be broken, thus blocking the fluid exchange. Establishing and / or breaking the connection can be achieved by actuating the valve or switching it by actuating it (e.g., selectively). The connection can be established when the valve is in the open state and broken when it is in the closed state. Switching between the closed and open states can occur (also referred to as an actuation process), e.g., reversibly, discretely, or continuously (e.g., by assuming an intermediate state).The duration for which the valve remains in the open state can be referred to as the opening duration. The duration for which the valve remains in the closed state can be referred to as the closing duration.

[0033] The valve can be controlled, for example, by means of an electrical control signal and / or a fluid-mechanical control signal (e.g., a pressure change), which can be fed to a control input of the valve. Generally, a fluid (e.g., containing or composed of a gas and / or a liquid) can act as the carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal. For example, the fluid-mechanical control signal (e.g., the pressure change) can be transmitted using a gas as the carrier. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical control signal can be converted into a fluid-mechanical control signal (in the case of gas as the carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal, this is also referred to as an electropneumatic control mechanism). For the sake of simplicity, the following description refers to gas as the carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal. The description can also be applied analogously to a liquid as the carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal.

[0034] An electropneumatic control mechanism can be understood as the control of pneumatic components (for example, pneumatically operated valves) using electrical components (for example, electrically operated valves). As a control element in pneumatics, a pressure differential can be applied to the pneumatic component, which causes a positioning process (visually, a change of state) of the pneumatic component. To reverse the positioning process, the pressure differential can be changed or eliminated. For example, pressure equalization can occur to eliminate the pressure differential, thus reversing the positioning process. The value of the pressure differential at or above which the positioning process of the pneumatic component (e.g., valve) occurs is also referred to as the switching pressure. The switching pressure can be referenced to a pressure, such as a control pressure and / or atmospheric pressure.

[0035] Applying the switching pressure or equalizing the pressure can be achieved using electrically controlled valves, i.e., valves that can be controlled by electrical signals. These electrically operated valves can, for example, be controlled by a control device that supplies the corresponding electrical control signal to each valve. In contrast to a purely pneumatic control mechanism, an electropneumatic control mechanism allows for significantly more complex functions, particularly through the use of electronic circuits such as a programmable logic controller (PLC).

[0036] Control device, a shorter reaction time and / or a smaller design.

[0037] An electrically operated valve (also called an electric valve) can comprise a valve body (e.g., a flap, a gate, or similar) and an electromechanical actuator that provides the control input. The electromechanical actuator can be configured to transmit a mechanical movement to the valve body in response to the electrical control signal, resulting in a reduction or enlargement of the cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid-conducting connection. The electromechanical actuator can, for example, include an electromagnet or at least a coil by means of which a magnetic field is generated that mediates the mechanical movement between the actuator and the valve body.

[0038] A fluid-mechanical valve (e.g., a pneumatic valve) can have a valve body (e.g., a flap, a slide, or similar) and a fluid-mechanical actuator, which has the control input, e.g., a diaphragm, a piston, or similar. The fluid-mechanical actuator can be configured to convert the fluid-mechanical pressure change into a mechanical movement (or a change thereof) and to transmit the mechanical movement to the valve body, so that a reduction in cross-section or

[0039] The cross-sectional area of ​​the fluid-conducting connection is enlarged.

[0040] A sensor (also called a detector) can be understood as a transducer designed to qualitatively or quantitatively detect a property of its environment corresponding to the sensor type, such as a physical or chemical property and / or a material composition. The measurand is the physical quantity that the sensor measures. Depending on the complexity of the environment being measured, the sensor can be configured to distinguish between only two states of the measurand (also called a switching sensor), to distinguish between more than two states, or to quantitatively detect the measurand. A switching sensor (also referred to simply as a switch when part of a sensor) can, for example, only distinguish whether the measurand meets a criterion (e.g., exceeds or falls below a threshold) or does not meet the criterion.An example of a measuring switch is a pressure sensor, which is configured to detect whether a pressure measurement is negative or negative. Another example is a level sensor, which is configured to detect whether a fluid level (also called a level) has reached the sensor's location, for example, by detecting whether it is in contact with water. An example of a quantitatively measured quantity is a fluid flow rate (e.g., flow rate), the current state of which can be output as a value by the sensor. Examples of level sensors with a measuring switch include: a tuning fork level switch (having a tuning fork); a limit switch level sensor (having a limit switch); a capacitance switch level sensor (having a capacitance switch); and a float switch level switch (having a float switch).Examples of measuring switches include: optical level gauge; level electrode; radar level gauge; capacitive level gauge.

[0041] Ultrasonic level meter.

[0042] A sensor can be part of a measurement chain, which includes the necessary infrastructure (e.g., a processor, storage medium, and / or bus system, or similar components). The measurement chain can be configured to control the corresponding sensor (e.g., a water sensor, pressure sensor, and / or actuator sensor), process its measured value as an input, and, based on this, provide an electrical signal as an output representing the state of the input value at the time of measurement. The measurement chain can be implemented, for example, by means of a control device.

[0043] A network described herein can, for example, be a local area network (such as a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wireless LAN (WLAN), or a Personal Area Network (PAN), such as a Wireless PAN (WPAN), such as a Bluetooth network) or a non-local area network (such as a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), or a Global Area Network (GAN)), depending on its range. The network can also be a wireless network (such as a cellular network), such as a mobile network, or a wired network, depending on its transmission type. The network can also be a cellular wireless network (such as an IEEE 802.11 WLAN).11 in ad-hoc mode, a Bluetooth network, or another cellular mobile network) or be formed from such a network, for example, according to a third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), fifth-generation (5G), or LTE (also referred to as 3.9G) mobile communication standard. The network may also have several interconnected sub-networks of different types.

[0044] The transmission of information (information transfer) can occur according to various implementations using a network communication protocol (network CP). Information transfer can involve transmitting, or at least sending, or at least generating a message containing the information according to the network CP. A network CP can be intuitively defined as an agreement governing the information transfer between two or more parties. In its simplest form, a network CP can be defined as a set of rules that determine the syntax, semantics, and synchronization of the information transfer. The communication protocol(s) used (e.g., one or more network protocols) can, in principle, be chosen arbitrarily and may (but do not have to) be configured according to the OSI (Open Systems Interconnect) reference model.Any protocol can be used in the respective protocol layers. For example, protocols from WLAN or other wireless communication protocols can be used. Thus, transmitting information via WLAN can involve sending a message containing the information according to a WLAN communication protocol stack. On the sender side, the message can then be generated and, depending on the configuration, also sent. On the receiver side, the message can then be received.

[0045] The term "frequency" in relation to an event can be understood as indicating the number of times the event occurs, i.e., the result of counting multiple events. Generally, frequency can be expressed as an absolute number (e.g., "five") or as a number related to a time period ("five per hour"). The number related to a time period can, for example, be expressed as a frequency, even if the events did not necessarily occur regularly (in this case, a frequency averaged over the time period).

[0046] Fig. 1 illustrates a vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view. The vacuum wastewater device 100 has: a

[0047] The vacuum wastewater device 100 comprises a wastewater collection tank 102, a vacuum wastewater connection 202, and a wastewater valve 204, which is connected between the wastewater collection tank 102 and the vacuum wastewater connection 202. The vacuum wastewater device 100 also includes at least one (i.e., one or more than one) electromechanical actuator 216, 206a, 206b.

[0048] The wastewater valve 204 can have an internal expansion in the open state of more than approximately 2 cm (centimeters), e.g. more than approximately 3 cm, e.g. more than approximately 4 cm, e.g. more than approximately 5 cm, e.g. more than approximately 6 cm, e.g. more than approximately 7 cm, e.g. more than approximately 10 cm.

[0049] An (e.g., the or each) electromechanical actuator 216,

[0050] Actuators 206a and 206b can generally be configured to change (e.g., set) the current state of the vacuum wastewater device. For this purpose, actuators 216, 206a, and 206b can be configured to change one or more adjustable operating parameters (also referred to simply as operating parameters) of the vacuum wastewater device 100.

[0051] Furthermore, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a control device 106 which is configured to receive a message 902 according to a network communication protocol 153. The message 902 can contain an instruction according to which the at least one electromechanical actuator 216, 206a, 206b is controlled by the control device 106 151 or according to which the operating parameter is set, e.g., according to which several actuators 216, 206a, 206b are controlled 151. The control device 106 can be configured to control the at least one electromechanical actuator 216, 206a, 206b in response to receiving 153 the message 902 according to the network communication protocol. For example, the control device 106 can be configured such that receiving 153 the message 902 according to the network communication protocol triggers the actuation of at least one electromechanical actuator 216, 206a, 206b.For example, the instruction can represent that a specific target state should be assumed, e.g., by executing an operating function, as will be described in more detail later. Alternatively or additionally, the instruction can represent that a stored operating parameter of the operating function is updated.

[0052] In general, the instruction allows the execution of an operating function to be instructed from outside the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100. Alternatively or additionally, the execution of an operating function can also be triggered (initiated) by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100 itself (e.g., autonomously), for example, in response to the detection of an event associated with the operating function and / or the current state fulfilling a criterion associated with the operating function (i.e., automatically). The following refers, among other things, to the instruction of operating functions using message 902. The description can apply analogously if the operating function is initiated by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100 itself (e.g., autonomously).

[0053] Examples of adjustable operating parameters include:

[0054] - an inflow of water (also referred to as water inflow) supplied to the wastewater collection tank 102,

[0055] - a control input pressure of the wastewater valve 204 (e.g. alternating between a switching pressure and / or negative pressure),

[0056] - a pressure difference (e.g. dropping across a valve),

[0057] - a fill level of the wastewater collection tank 102.

[0058] The water flow rate can be related to multiple flushing cycles (e.g., summed over several flushing cycles) and / or to a specific point in time (e.g., as a rate, i.e., water flow per unit of time) within a flushing cycle (also referred to as an instantaneous value). Other operating parameters can optionally be stored by the control device. Examples of stored operating parameters include:

[0059] - one or more than one time indication for an actuation process of an actuator 216, 206a, 206b,

[0060] - a reference pressure of one or more fault conditions, and / or

[0061] - a criterion (e.g. threshold) of one or more error states.

[0062] The time information for the positioning process can, for example, specify when the positioning process begins and / or ends (e.g., in relation to another positioning process or a recorded event), the duration of the positioning process, or the duration for which a result of the positioning process is maintained (e.g., the opening or closing duration). The latter duration can, for example, separate two immediately consecutive positioning processes.

[0063] In general, several actuators 216, 206a, 206b can be controlled together, sequentially, or independently 151 to influence the current state of the vacuum wastewater device 100. The following refers, among other things, to actuators in the form of valves. For ease of understanding, the valves are named according to their function, e.g., wastewater valve, control valve, water supply valve, etc. However, the description can also apply analogously to actuators or valves of other types.

[0064] Fig. 2 illustrates the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 200 in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view. The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a bowl 102 as its container body. The bowl 102 can have an interior 102h and a container inlet 102o that exposes this interior. Optionally, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a lid 102d, which can selectively cover or expose the container inlet 102o.

[0065] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a pneumatic wastewater valve 204, which is connected on the outlet side to the bowl 102 (i.e., to a wastewater outlet 104 of the bowl).

[0066] 102). The wastewater valve 204 can be connected between the bowl 102 and the wastewater connection 202, e.g. by means of a wastewater pipe 2021.

[0067] The wastewater valve 204, the wastewater outlet 104, the wastewater pipe 2021 and / or the wastewater connection 202 may, for example, have a connection (e.g. a flange) with a diameter of more than approximately 1 cm (centimeter), e.g. more than approximately 2 cm, e.g. more than approximately 3 cm, e.g. more than approximately 4 cm, e.g. more than approximately 5 cm, e.g. more than approximately 6 cm, e.g. more than approximately 7 cm, e.g. more than approximately 10 cm.

[0068] The interior space 102h can, for example, have a volume in a range of approximately 5 L (liters) to approximately 100 L, e.g. in a range of approximately 5 L to approximately 50 L, e.g. of less than 20 L.

[0069] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have one or more electric control valves 206a, which are connected between the wastewater connection 202 (e.g., the wastewater line 2021) and the wastewater valve 204 (e.g., its control port 204s), for example, by means of appropriate connecting lines. If exactly one electric control valve 206a is used, it can be configured as a three-way valve and can also be coupled to a control gas inlet 208. The three-way valve reduces the number of valves required. By means of one or more control valves 206a, the wastewater valve 204 can be or become fluid-conductingly connected to the wastewater connection 202. As a result, the pressure of the wastewater connection 202 can be applied to the wastewater valve 204 (i.e., its control input 204s), so that this connects the interior 102h to the wastewater connection 202 in a fluid-conducting manner, i.e., that the wastewater valve 204 is brought into an open state.

[0070] The pressure at the wastewater connection 202 (also referred to as suction pressure) can generally be a negative pressure (simply put, a vacuum), i.e., a pressure that is lower than the ambient pressure acting on the bowl 102 (simply put, atmospheric pressure). Atmospheric pressure can be understood as the pressure exerted by gravity in the Earth's atmosphere. The suction pressure can be generated, for example, by means of a pump connected to the wastewater connection 202.

[0071] By means of one or more control valves 206a, the wastewater valve 204 (e.g., its control port 204s) can be or become fluid-conductingly connected to the control gas inlet 208. As a result, the pressure of the control gas can be applied to the wastewater valve 204, so that it breaks the fluid-conducting connection between the interior 102h and the wastewater port 202, i.e., that it is brought into the closed state. The pressure of the control gas (also referred to as control pressure) can be, for example, atmospheric pressure or a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure (also referred to as gauge pressure). The control gas can, for example, consist of or be composed of atmospheric air.

[0072] If atmospheric pressure is to be used, the control gas inlet 208 can have a line end 208 exposed to the atmosphere, and optionally a throttle, as will be described in more detail later. If overpressure is to be used, the control gas inlet 208 can have a control gas connection 208. The overpressure can be provided, for example, by a compressor that is connected to the control gas connection 208. The description for the control gas inlet 208 can also apply analogously to the control gas connection 208, and vice versa, depending on whether overpressure or atmospheric pressure is to be used as the control pressure.

[0073] The atmospheric pressure can differ from the overpressure and / or underpressure by approximately 0.1 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.2 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.3 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.4 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.5 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.6 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.7 bar or more. Alternatively or additionally, the overpressure can differ from the underpressure by approximately 0.1 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.2 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.3 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.4 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.5 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.6 bar or more, e.g., by approximately 0.7 bar or more. The greater the difference, the more effectively the wastewater can be extracted from the interior space.

[0074] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have one or more electric water supply valves 216, which are connected between the water supply connection 212 (e.g., the water supply line 2121) and one or more water supply openings 226 of the bowl 102, e.g., by means of appropriate connecting lines. A water supply opening 226 can be the point at which the water flows into the interior 102h if the interior 102h is fluidly connected to the water supply connection 212.

[0075] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can further comprise a control device 106, which is configured to actuate the electric valves 216, 206a. Actuation can be carried out according to an operating function, e.g., according to a draining sequence as an operating function, if the target state represents an emptied container 102.

[0076] The draining sequence can include a first phase (also referred to simply as the flushing process) in which the interior space 102h (e.g., the water inlet or inlet 226) is or becomes fluid-conducting with the water inlet 212 and / or the wastewater valve 204 is or becomes closed (i.e., the control port 204s of the wastewater valve 204 is fluid-conducting with the control gas inlet 208). The opening duration of the water inlet valve 216 (also referred to as the flushing duration) can be used as an operating parameter.

[0077] The draining sequence can include a second phase in which the wastewater valve 204 is or becomes open (i.e., the control port 204s of the wastewater valve 204 is fluid-conducting and connected to the wastewater port 202) and / or the fluid-conducting connection between the water supply port 212 and the interior 102h (e.g., the water supply opening 226) is or becomes closed. The opening duration of the wastewater valve 204, for example, can be used as an operating parameter.

[0078] The emptying sequence may include a third phase in which the wastewater connection 202 is or is brought into the closed state and / or the fluid-conducting connection between the water supply connection 212 and the interior 102h (e.g., the water supply opening 226) is or is terminated.

[0079] Control can also be performed according to one or more other operating functions, as will be described in more detail later. For control, a corresponding electrical control signal can be supplied to the control inputs SV1, SV3, SV2 of the electric valve 216, 206a to be controlled.

[0080] If the first phase or the rinsing process is omitted, an emergency emptying sequence (also called emergency emptying) is provided as an operating function instead of the emptying sequence.

[0081] If the second and third phases are omitted, the flushing process (also known as toilet flushing) is provided as an operating function instead of the emptying sequence.

[0082] Control according to the operating function can occur, for example, when a target state is to be assumed (or the actual state is to be changed). To detect the actual state, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have one or more sensors (Sl, S2, S3, S4, 302) that are coupled to the control device 106. Examples of sensors include: an actuation sensor 302, a water sensor (S4, S3), and / or a pressure sensor (Sl, S2).

[0083] One or more water sensors S4 (e.g., a measuring switch) can be configured to detect the water level in the interior as a measured variable (then also referred to as a level sensor), i.e., an indication of the amount of wastewater in the interior space 102h. For this purpose, each level sensor can be connected to the interior space 102h (e.g., adjacent to it). The water level can be output, for example, as mass, volume, or surface height, or as a representation of these values.

[0084] One or more water sensors S3 can be configured, for example, to detect the water inflow, e.g., its inflow rate, to the interior space 102h (then also referred to as an inflow sensor or flow sensor), i.e., to provide information about the quantity or rate of water supplied to the interior space 102h. For this purpose, each inflow sensor can be connected, for example, to a fluid line between the water supply connection (e.g., the water supply valve 216) and the interior space 102h. The inflow rate can be output, for example, as a standard volumetric flow rate or mass volumetric flow rate, or a value representing these.

[0085] One or more first pressure sensors S1 (e.g., a measuring switch) can be configured to detect the suction pressure as a measured variable. For this purpose, each first pressure sensor S1 can, for example, be connected to a fluid line between the wastewater connection 202 and the control valve 206a.

[0086] One or more pressure sensors S2 (e.g., a pressure switch) can be configured to detect the pressure at the control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204 (also referred to as the control input pressure) as a measured value, i.e., the pressure prevailing therein. For this purpose, each or every second pressure sensor S2 can, for example, be connected to a fluid line between the control input 204s and the control valve 206a.

[0087] One or more actuation sensors 302 can be configured to detect user action as a measured variable, e.g., a touch and / or a force exerted by the user. The emptying sequence can be initiated, for example, when actuation of the actuation sensor 302 is detected. In other words, actuation of the actuation sensor updates the target state to an emptied container 102. The actuation sensor 302 can, for example, have an electrical or physical switch (also referred to as a button), e.g., a pressure switch, and / or a touch sensor. Similarly, another operating function can be initiated, for example, when it detects a deviation of the actual state from the target state, or when a corresponding instruction is received from the control device 106, as will be described in more detail later.For example, one or more countermeasures can be implemented as an operational function, as will be described in more detail later.

[0088] In one example, the flushing of the vacuum toilet 100 (also referred to as the toilet flush) is controlled by a control device 106 and a two-way valve 216 (connected to SV1). When a user presses the flush button 302, the control device 106 opens the water supply valve 216 for a predefined, e.g., stored, time (also referred to as the supply time) and flushes the toilet bowl. After the supply time has elapsed, the water supply valve 216 closes and stops the toilet flush.

[0089] Optionally, the container 102 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a seat 224, which, for example, is movable like the lid and / or, unlike the lid, has an opening (also referred to as the seat opening) that exposes and / or forms the container inlet 102o. Alternatively, the seat 224 can be a monolithic component of the container 102. The seat can, for example, have an ergonomically shaped frame that surrounds the seat opening.

[0090] Optionally, the seat 224 can be equipped with a bidet function (not shown), which can be operated by means of a switch or terminal. The bidet function can be connected to the inlet 212 and configured to emit a jet of water into the seat opening and / or the interior 102h. A corresponding valve can be installed between the inlet 212 and the bidet function, which can be controlled by the control device 106. Alternatively or additionally, the bidet function can be activated and / or deactivated by means of an electric actuator (also referred to as a bidet actuator). The operating parameter can therefore be the time during which water is supplied via the bidet function (i.e., the bidet actuator is switched).

[0091] Fig. 3 illustrates the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 300 in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view, which can be set up similarly to embodiments 200, with the difference that several two-way valves are used as control valves 206a, 206b. This allows for faster switching of the wastewater valve 204, e.g. by separate and / or overlapping control signals.

[0092] A first control valve 206a can be connected between the control gas inlet 208 and the wastewater valve 204. A second control valve 206b can be connected between the wastewater connection 202 and the wastewater valve 204.

[0093] In one example, the emptying of the vacuum toilet 100 is controlled by the control device 106 and several two-way valves SV2 and SV3. When a user presses the flush button 302, the control device 106 opens the first control valve 206a for a predefined, e.g., stored, time (also referred to as the emptying duration). The vacuum reaches the waste valve 204 (also referred to as the outlet valve) and opens the waste valve 204. After the emptying duration has elapsed, the first control valve 206a closes, and the second control valve 206b opens. This applies ambient pressure to the waste valve 204, thus closing it. Instead of the two two-way valves SV2 and SV3, the three-way valve (see Fig. 2) can also be used. Alternatively, a two-way valve 206a can be used together with a throttle valve downstream, as described below.

[0094] Fig. 4 illustrates the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 400 in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view, which may be configured similarly to embodiments 200 or 300, with the difference that the control gas inlet 208 may have a throttle 208d (also referred to as a control gas throttle), e.g., a throttle valve. The control gas throttle 208d may be configured to provide flow resistance. The control gas throttle 208d makes it possible, for example, to omit the first control valve 206.

[0095] The control throttle 208d can optionally also be used when several two-way valves SV2, SV3 (see Fig. 3) or the three-way valve SV2 are present (see Fig. 2).

[0096] In the following, various components of the process refer to a control device. The control device can be the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100, or a control device implemented by means of an external computing device of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100, which is configured to instruct (also referred to as "instructing") the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100 by means of a message. The latter intuitively implements a remote control device, which, for example, communicates with the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment plant 100 via a network, and thus implements remote control, diagnostics, and / or monitoring (also referred to as remote control, remote diagnostics, and / or remote monitoring).

[0097] For example, the control device can be used to detect a malfunction (also referred to as a fault) of the vacuum wastewater device 100 based on the determined current state. Furthermore, a countermeasure corresponding to the detected malfunction can be implemented to rectify or at least mitigate the malfunction.

[0098] Fig. 5 illustrates the determination of malfunctions for a method according to different embodiments in a tabular overview 500, e.g. implemented by means of the control device.

[0099] Tabular overview 500 explains examples of malfunctions 1 to 10, where "Y" marks the sensor(s) on which the respective malfunction can be based (i.e., which are assigned to the malfunction). If the determined actual state of the vacuum wastewater device 100 deviates from the target state, one or more possible malfunctions (e.g., cause of error) can be determined based on this (i.e., using the sensor), which are assigned to the sensor. From the possible malfunctions, the actual malfunction can be selected (i.e., they can be distinguished from one another) using a so-called additional specification, as described in more detail below. The reference parameters described below (e.g.,Reference time, criteria, thresholds and / or reference pressure) can optionally be used as stored operating parameters, which can be optionally updated according to a message 902 received by the control device 106.

[0100] The criteria described below, which are associated with a malfunction (for determining the malfunction), can clearly illustrate that an operating parameter or measured value does not meet, or barely meets, a specified operational readiness requirement. For example, a criterion may be met if a threshold value associated with the malfunction is exceeded or fallen below, which will be referenced below for easier understanding. The above can also apply analogously to other conditions that define when the criterion associated with the respective malfunction is met.

[0101] The first malfunction ("vacuum supply fault") can be clearly demonstrated by insufficient suction pressure, for example, to switch the wastewater valve and / or to pump out the wastewater. This first malfunction can be identified when the difference between the suction pressure and a reference pressure falls below a threshold value (also known as the pressure differential threshold).

[0102] The first malfunction can optionally be detected if (e.g., as additional information) it is determined that the difference between the suction pressure and the reference pressure falls below the threshold value for a predefined period (also referred to as the reference period), e.g., a stored one. The reference period can, for example, be longer than the duration of the emptying sequence. The expiration of the reference period can be intuitively implemented using a timer.

[0103] The second malfunction ("vacuum control error") can manifest as an insufficient vacuum as the control input pressure, for example, for switching the wastewater valve. This second malfunction can be identified if the difference between the control input pressure and a reference pressure falls below the pressure differential threshold, and if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that this occurs when the control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204 is fluid-conducting and connected to the wastewater port 202. The second malfunction can be caused, for example, by the second control valve 206b, if present, being malfunctioning (e.g., defective) and / or by a leak between the first control valve 206a and the wastewater valve 204.

[0104] The differential pressure threshold for the first and / or second malfunction can, for example, be the switching pressure of the wastewater valve 204 or higher. Alternatively or additionally, the reference pressure for the first and / or second malfunction can be atmospheric pressure or the control pressure.

[0105] If the reference pressure for the second malfunction is the suction pressure, the pressure difference dropping across the first control valve 206a is determined as the difference (when the first control valve 206a is in the open state), e.g. by means of several pressure sensors Sl, S2.

[0106] The criterion can then be met if a corresponding (intuitively small) pressure difference threshold is exceeded (e.g. 10% of the suction pressure).

[0107] The third malfunction ("second control valve fault") can indicate that the second control valve 206b, if present, is impaired (e.g., defective). Analogous to the second malfunction, the difference between the control input pressure and the reference pressure can be measured. Unlike the second malfunction, the third malfunction can be further investigated (for example, as additional information) by determining whether the change in this difference when the second control valve 206b switches falls below a (clearly small) threshold. This allows for differentiation between the third and second fault conditions. For example, it can be verified whether switching the second control valve 206b causes the required pressure change at the control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204. This can also be used to check the operational readiness of the second control valve 206b (i.e., its switching function).The fourth malfunction ("low fill level") can indicate that the fill level is insufficient, for example, for complete emptying. This fourth malfunction can be detected if the fill level of interior 102h falls below a certain threshold, and if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that this occurs after the rinsing process has finished. The fill level threshold could, for example, be located at the position of the first water sensor S4. For instance, a check of the remaining water in interior 102h could be performed. In this way, control and / or regulation of the fill level could be implemented.

[0108] The fifth malfunction ("Water supply valve fault") may indicate that the switching function of the water supply valve 216, if present, is impaired (e.g., defective). This fifth malfunction can be identified if a change in water flow falls below a threshold value, and if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that this occurs when the water supply valve 216 switches. For instance, the operational readiness of the water supply valve 216 (i.e., its switching function) can be checked.

[0109] The sixth malfunction ("Leakage in water supply valve") may indicate that the water supply valve 216, if present, is leaking (e.g., defective). This sixth malfunction can be identified if it is determined that the water inflow exceeds a threshold value and if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that this occurs while the water supply valve 216 is closed (i.e., the fluid-conducting connection should be interrupted). For example, the leakage rate of the water supply valve 216 can be checked.

[0110] The seventh malfunction ("Leaking Washlet") can indicate that the washlet (also known as the toilet bidet) is malfunctioning (e.g., defective). This seventh malfunction can be identified if the water flow exceeds a threshold and if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that this occurs while the washlet is closed and / or activated, or after the washlet has been closed and / or activated.

[0111] For example, the leakage rate of the toilet shower can be checked.

[0112] The eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunctions may indicate that the fill level has been exceeded. These malfunctions can be detected when the fill level of the interior 102h exceeds the fill level threshold (also referred to as overfilling), for example, when the water supply valve 216 is closed.

[0113] The eighth malfunction (“Water inlet valve fault”) can be identified if it is additionally determined (for example, as supplementary information) that the fill level is reduced and / or repeatedly exceeded after an emergency drain has been performed (illustratively, a draining sequence without flushing, e.g., to clear toilet blockages).

[0114] The ninth malfunction ("blockage") can be identified if it is additionally determined (for example, as supplementary information) that the amount of water supplied after the emergency drain, which is necessary to reach the previous fill level, falls below a certain threshold. This can be used to illustrate that the contents of container 102 are not draining completely or sufficiently, as only a small amount of water needs to be supplied to reach the previous fill level. The threshold could, for example, correspond to the volume of container 102 required to reach the fill level indicated by the level sensor. The tenth malfunction ("drainage mechanism error") can be identified if it is additionally determined (for example, as supplementary information) that the fill level meets the criterion (e.g., continuously) during and / or after the emergency drain has been performed.The draining mechanism may be impaired if (for example, as additional information) it is determined that the switching of the wastewater valve 204 is impaired (e.g. defective), the first control valve 206a is impaired (e.g. defective or leaking), there is a leak between the wastewater valve 204 and the first control valve 206a, and / or there is a leak between the wastewater connection 202 and the first control valve 206a.

[0115] The procedure may optionally include the execution of one or more countermeasures as an operational function in response to whether and which malfunction has been detected. The procedure may optionally include the operation of placing the vacuum wastewater device 100 into an alarm state in response to whether and which malfunction has been detected.

[0116] Alternatively or additionally, the control device 106 can generate one or more messages 902 according to a network communication protocol. Message 902 can, for example, contain information about the determined current state, the detected malfunction, an activated alarm state, and / or one or more countermeasures taken. Message 902 can be addressed to one or more receivers (e.g., a computing device), as described in more detail below, so that it is received by them. The generation of message 902 can be initiated automatically (e.g., autonomously) by the control device 106, for example, in response to the determined current state and / or the detected malfunction.Alternatively or additionally, the generation of message 902 can be initiated by the control device 106 in response to a message 902 received by the control device 106, which contains an instruction to provide the corresponding information (also referred to as reading the control device).

[0117] The mechanism described above can be vividly implemented as a diagnostic operating function, which includes the identification of possible malfunctions, the identification of additional information and / or the identification of actual malfunctions.

[0118] Fig. 6 illustrates several countermeasures for a method according to various embodiments in a tabular overview 600, e.g. implemented by means of the control device. The method may include carrying out one or more countermeasures in response to whether or which malfunction was detected, e.g. in response to this.

[0119] For example, the control device 106 can receive one or more messages 902 according to a network communication point (KP), which instruct the countermeasure to be carried out (by means of a corresponding instruction), for example in response to and / or based on the current state and / or the malfunction. This can be the case if the determination of the current state and / or the malfunction is carried out by means of the remote control device.

[0120] Alternatively or additionally, the countermeasure can be initiated automatically (e.g., autonomously) by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment system 100, for example, in response to and / or based on the current state and / or malfunction detected by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater treatment system 100. The latter case is referred to below. The above can apply analogously if the countermeasure is initiated by the remote control device.

[0121] In response to the detection of the first, second, third, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunction, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can be placed in an alarm state (also referred to as activating the alarm state). Activating the alarm state in response to the detection of the first malfunction can occur, for example, after the reference period has elapsed.

[0122] In response to the seventh malfunction, the bidet function can be deactivated. If it is determined that the water level continues to rise, i.e., that more water is being supplied (e.g., in the case of a leak), the alarm can be activated.

[0123] In response to the fourth malfunction, a fluid-conducting connection between the interior 102h and the water supply connection 212 can be established, for example, by opening the water supply valve 216 (analogous to the flushing process). This allows water to be supplied to the interior 102h (also referred to as refilling). The amount of water supplied can be controlled and / or regulated, for example, based on the detected fill level.

[0124] In response to the activation of the alarm state, emergency drainage can optionally be performed for the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunction. Emergency drainage may involve connecting the interior 102h to the wastewater connection 202 via a fluid-conducting line without performing the flushing process (also known as dry drainage).

[0125] In response to the activation of the alarm state, the toilet shower can optionally be deactivated for the eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunction. Optionally, a water consumption figure (also referred to as consumption data) for the vacuum wastewater device 100 can be determined, e.g., per flush, for a large number of flushes, and / or over a predefined period (e.g., several days, weeks, or months). The consumption data can be determined using the inflow sensor S3. For example, the procedure can include generating a message via a network communication point (KP) containing the consumption data.

[0126] Fig. 7 illustrates a system 700 in a method according to various embodiments in a schematic communication diagram. The term "system" can be understood as a set of interacting entities. The set of interacting entities may, for example, include at least one (i.e., one or more than one) physical component, at least one network terminal, and / or at least one application (e.g., stored in a storage medium). Examples of a physical component include: the control device 106, one or more computing devices 604, 606, and the storage medium.

[0127] The or any calculating device 604 (also known as

[0128] The receiver device (referred to as "receiver device") can optionally be registered by the system 700, for example, by means of a database stored in the storage medium. Examples of a computing device 604, 606 include: a computing system 606 (e.g., a server, computer, or the like), a mobile communication device 604. A mobile communication device can, according to various embodiments, be a mobile phone, e.g., a feature phone or a smartphone, but also a radio pager, a tablet, a laptop, a smartwatch, or a hybrid of these device types.

[0129] The computer 606 and / or the control device 106 can be connected to the network via a wired connection, e.g., via Ethernet and / or RS-485 (industry standard for a physical interface). Alternatively or additionally, the control device 106 and / or the mobile device 604 can be connected to the network 602 via a wireless connection, e.g., via WLAN.

[0130] The System 700 can have a connection to a Network 602 (also referred to as a network connection), e.g., an internet connection. Through the Network 602, the physical components of the System 700 can be communicatively coupled with one another, i.e., able to exchange information. The following refers to a message, its generation, and transmission. It can be understood that the message can be generated and / or transmitted according to the respective network KP of the network connection. A network KP configured for wireless communication (also referred to as a wireless network KP) can, for example, be in accordance with a cellular mobile network to which the mobile device 102 is connected, e.g., a WLAN, a GSM network, GPRS network, UMTS network, and / or LTE network.The wireless network keypad can define details for a network layer, data link layer, and / or physical layer (according to the OSI model). The message can then be transmitted, sent, and / or received at a higher layer, such as the session layer or application layer.

[0131] For the sake of clarity, the following refers to an internet connection, meaning that System 700 has a connection to, or is part of, the internet 602 (a global network of computer networks). However, the description can also apply analogously to other configurations or networks. System 700 may include the mobile device 604. The mobile device 604 may be configured to communicate wirelessly (i.e., via radio) with network 602 301, for example, according to the wireless network communication protocol (KP). Thus, a message can be exchanged between network 602 and the mobile device 604 according to the wireless network communication protocol (KP). Alternatively or in addition to the mobile device 604, System 700 may include the computer 606. The computer 606 may be communicatively connected to network 602 303 according to a wired network communication protocol (KP). Thus, a message can be exchanged between network 602 and computer 606, for example...according to the wired network KP.

[0132] The system 700 can further comprise one or more control devices 106, which are communicatively connected 305 to the network 602. Each control device 106 can be connected to the network 602 via a wired network terminal and / or a wireless network terminal. The control device 106 can optionally be registered by the system 700, for example, by means of a database stored in the storage medium. For example, a plurality of vacuum wastewater devices 100 can be communicatively connected 305 to the network 602 and / or registered in the system 700 via their control device 106.

[0133] Each computing device 604, 606 can have an application. The application can be, for example, a local application, e.g., installed on the computing device 604, 606 (e.g., non-volatile, embedded in the operating system) and / or run by it.

[0134] Alternatively or additionally, the application can be a web application. The web application can, for example, be run on the computer 304 or another computer system, and only its user interface can be displayed on a web browser of the mobile device 604 (e.g., analogous to remote access).

[0135] The application can be configured to communicate with the control device 106 (e.g., at the application layer), for example, to transmit one or more messages to or from the control device 106, to read data from the control device 106, and / or to instruct the control device 106. Depending on the direction of communication, a message can be received by or sent from the control device 106. A message sent by the control device 106 can be received by one or more computing devices 604, 606.

[0136] In the System 700, one or more components can be omitted, depending on how the procedure is carried out, e.g. the mobile radio 604 and / or the computer 606.

[0137] The mobile device 604 (e.g., its application) can be used with the

[0138] The control unit communicates, for example, via a wireless network connection (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.). The mobile device 604 may, for example, have downloaded the application from the storage medium of the computer 606.

[0139] The mobile device 604 application can provide one or more of the following functions: displaying (e.g., a list) of, instructing, and / or reading vacuum wastewater devices 100 registered in the wireless network; optionally displaying their current status (e.g., ready for use, alarm mode activated, occupied, etc.), optionally displaying their location description, optionally displaying the signal strength of the wireless network, and / or optionally displaying the time (e.g., date) of the last use of the vacuum wastewater devices 100. For example, each vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the wireless network (also referred to as the wireless network) can be displayed and / or accessed (i.e., read and / or instructed).

[0140] Depending on the system configuration, the vacuum wastewater devices 100 registered in the system (e.g., via an administrative database) can be assigned to, or become assigned to, a wireless network in which they are registered, allowing them to be grouped, for example, according to the respective wireless network. The vacuum wastewater devices 100 registered in the wireless network to which the mobile device 604 is also connected are referred to below, for simplicity, as visible vacuum wastewater devices 100.

[0141] The application of the computing device 606 can provide one or more of the following functions: displaying (e.g., a list) of, instructing, and / or reading vacuum wastewater devices 100 registered in the system; optionally displaying their current status (e.g., ready for use, alarm mode activated, occupied, etc.); optionally displaying the signal strength of the wireless network; and / or optionally displaying the time (e.g., date) of the last use of the vacuum wastewater devices 100.

[0142] For example, every vacuum wastewater device registered in the system can be displayed and / or accessed.

[0143] The application of the computing device 606 and / or the mobile communication device 604 can, for example, provide one or more than one of the following sub-functions by accessing (i.e., remotely accessing) the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100:

[0144] - to read and / or change the current configuration of the vacuum wastewater device 100;

[0145] - to read and / or change a location description of the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., cabin "xxx"); - the location description can be visible in the list of visible vacuum wastewater devices 100 for easy orientation;

[0146] - to instruct (i.e., direct) one or more than one operating function (e.g., a rinsing process, the entire emptying sequence and / or the emergency emptying) of the vacuum wastewater device 100;

[0147] - to read the history of toilet usage and / or the number of cycles / flushes of the main components in the toilets (for example, to better plan maintenance);

[0148] - Determine possible causes for the activated alarm mode.

[0149] Reading and / or changing the configuration of the vacuum wastewater device may involve reading or changing one or more of the following operating parameters of the vacuum wastewater device 100: an opening duration of the water inlet valve 216 (also referred to as flushing duration), an opening duration of the wastewater valve 204 (also referred to as emptying duration), one or more criteria of any malfunction and / or the correspondingly assigned countermeasure thereto.

[0150] Optionally, the consumption per wash cycle can be displayed using the application on the computer system 606 and / or the mobile device 604. Optionally, the consumption for a large number of wash cycles and / or over a predefined period can be displayed using the application on the computer system 606, but not necessarily using the mobile device.

[0151] Fig. 8 illustrates a method 800 according to various embodiments in a schematic flowchart, e.g., implemented by means of the control device 106 (then also referred to as diagnostics) and / or the computing device 904 (then also referred to as remote diagnostics). The computing device 904 can, as described above, be a

[0152] Implement a remote control device (also referred to simply as a control device) by means of which remote diagnostics or instruction of the control device 100 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can be carried out.

[0153] Method 800 can include, in 801, determining a deviation (also referred to as a state deviation) of an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device from a target state of the vacuum wastewater device by means of a sensor of the vacuum wastewater device. Several (conceivably possible) malfunctions of the vacuum wastewater device can be assigned to the sensor, which can be determined by means of the sensor. Intuitively, several sources of error can produce a similar measured value from the sensor, so that the actual source of error cannot be definitively determined.

[0154] For example, the first water sensor S4 may be associated with two or more of the following malfunctions: "Water inlet valve fault", "Blockage", and / or "Drainage mechanism fault". For example, the second water sensor S3 may be associated with two or more of the following malfunctions: "Flow level too low", "Water inlet valve fault", "Water inlet valve leak", and / or "WC shower leak". For example, the first pressure sensor S1 may be associated with two or more of the following malfunctions: "Vacuum supply fault",

[0155] “Vacuum control error”, and / or “Second control valve error”. For example, the following malfunctions may be associated with the second pressure sensor S2: “Vacuum supply error” and “Vacuum control error”.

[0156] Method 800 may include, in 803, determining one malfunction (also referred to as the actual malfunction) from among several malfunctions based on at least one piece of information (also referred to as additional information) about the vacuum wastewater device. The additional information may intuitively enable the number of possible sources of error for the determined state deviation to be reduced, e.g., to 1, so that the determined fault state is unambiguous.

[0157] Procedure 800 may include, as described in 805, the output of an error message representing the detected malfunction. The output of the error message may, for example, include instructions for activating the alarm state and / or for instructing the user via a message. The output of the error message may, for example, include displaying the error message using a display device, such as a display device of the vacuum wastewater device 100 and / or the computing device 904.

[0158] The additional information can be stored, for example, in the form of a measured value that is assigned to the actual malfunction.

[0159] Alternatively or additionally, the supplementary information can be determined, for example, by recording the current state (e.g., the actual value of an operating parameter) using one or more of the other sensors of the vacuum wastewater device 100. This allows multiple measured values ​​to be combined to obtain a better understanding of the actual malfunction. For example, the second pressure sensor S2 can be used to differentiate between a vacuum supply fault and a vacuum control fault.

[0160] Alternatively or additionally, to determine the supplementary information, an actuator of the vacuum wastewater system can be activated, and the response to the actuator's activation can be recorded by one or more sensors of the vacuum wastewater system 100. For example, an emergency drain can be triggered if the fill level exceeds a certain threshold. If the level exceedance is not rectified in response to the emergency drain, a blockage may be present. If the level exceedance is only temporarily rectified in response to the emergency drain, a leak in the water inlet may be present. For example, water can be supplied if the fill level falls below a certain threshold. If the level exceedance is not rectified in response to the water supply, a fault in the drain mechanism may be present (the wastewater valve could be permanently open).If the water level exceedance is only temporarily resolved in response to the addition of water, a leak in the wastewater valve 204 may be present. Other fault conditions can be distinguished from one another in a similar manner.

[0161] Fig. 9 illustrates a system 700 in the method 900 according to various embodiments in a schematic communication diagram.

[0162] Method 900 may include exchanging one or more messages 902 according to a network communication protocol (CCP) between a computing device 904 (e.g., the computer 606 and / or the mobile communication device 604) and the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100. The network CCP may, for example, be a wireless network CCP, e.g., a WLAN CCP or an LTE CCP.

[0163] By exchanging one or more messages 902, one or more of the following functions can be implemented, which can optionally be implemented individually (e.g., independently of each other) or together. In other words, each aspect described below as an example can be provided alone or in combination with one or more of the other aspects.

[0164] By exchanging message 902, remote two-way communication between the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., a vacuum toilet) and the

[0165] The computing device 904 can be used, for example, to communicate with a mobile phone 604, a tablet 604, or a computer 606. The computing device 904 can, for example, implement a remote control device. The two-way communication can include: remote control / configuration of the vacuum wastewater treatment device 100 by means of the computing device 904 and / or remote monitoring of the functionality (also referred to as operational readiness) of the vacuum wastewater treatment device 100 (or its components and operating functions) based on installed sensors, for example, based on at least one vacuum switch or pressure sensor, based on at least one flow meter, or based on at least one water level switch or water sensor. An operating parameter can, for example, be stored in a storage medium of the control device 106 and / or the computing device. The remote monitoring can optionally be displayed by means of a display device of the computing device 904.

[0166] Optionally, the result of the two-way communication can be displayed using a display device of the computing device 904.

[0167] The message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction according to which an operating parameter stored by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g. a

[0168] The operating function is updated, or the execution of the operating function is initiated (also known as remote initiation). This allows the vacuum-

[0169] The wastewater device 100 can be remotely controlled and / or configured. Performing the operating function may involve, for example, controlling one or more actuators of the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to the operating function. For instance, the message may contain information about the operating parameter to be updated. By exchanging message 902, remote configuration of one or more operating parameters can be performed, such as one or more parameters of the emptying sequence (also referred to as emptying parameters). Examples of an emptying parameter include: the flushing duration (or duration of the first phase), the emptying duration (duration of the second phase), the residual amount of water in the container 102 (fill level after the third phase), and / or the amount of water to be refilled. A result of the remote configuration can optionally be displayed using a display device of the computer device 904.

[0170] By exchanging message 902, a remote overview of each registered vacuum wastewater device 100 can be provided (e.g., displayed). The remote overview can, for example, include: a list of each registered vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., connected toilets), their location, their operational status (e.g., operational or in alarm mode), and / or their last access (e.g., indicating a date, time, and / or optionally, the name of a service person). The remote overview can optionally be displayed using a display device of the computer 904.

[0171] The message 902 generated by the control device 106 can contain a registration identifier (e.g., for registration in the system), information representing the current state of the vacuum wastewater device 100, its location, and / or a time stamp indicating the last access (or optionally, its name). Alternatively or additionally, other information can be transmitted via message 902, which is provided as part of the remote overview. The time stamp indicating the last access can, for example, specify the point in time at which one or more actuators (e.g., the wastewater valve) of the vacuum wastewater device 100 were actuated. Alternatively or additionally, a frequency can also be specified, e.g., how often an access occurred (e.g., per period or summed over the period).

[0172] The information representing the current state of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can, for example, represent one or more measured quantities acquired by a sensor of the vacuum wastewater device 100, e.g., its measured value or be derived from it. The one or more acquired measured quantities can optionally be displayed by means of a display device of the computing device 904.

[0173] The measured variable can, for example, include: a fill level of the wastewater collection tank 102 (detected by the level sensor S4); a water inflow supplied to the wastewater collection tank 102, e.g., its rate and / or total (detected by the inflow sensor S3); a first pressure applied to a control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204 (detected by the second pressure sensor S2); a second pressure applied to the wastewater connection 202 (detected by the first pressure sensor S1); a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure (detected by the first and second pressure sensors S1 and S2); a pressure drop across the first control valve 206, 206a (detected by the first and second pressure sensors S1 and S2).

[0174] By exchanging message 902, the toilet flush and / or emergency emptying can be remotely initiated (e.g., if it has been determined that the vacuum wastewater device 100 is blocked). For this purpose, message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to initiate the toilet flush or emergency emptying. The result of the remote initiation can optionally be displayed by means of a display device on the computer device 904.

[0175] Remote monitoring of water consumption is possible by exchanging message 902. For this purpose, message 902, generated by the control device 106, can contain information about the water flow, for example, as a total over several flushing cycles and / or as an instantaneous value (e.g., as a rate, i.e., water flow per unit of time). The water consumption can optionally be displayed using a display device of the computer 904. A result of the remote monitoring can also optionally be displayed using a display device of the computer 904.

[0176] Component statistics can be provided by exchanging message 902. The message generated by control device 106 can contain one or more of the following component statistics: the number of flushing operations (flushing cycles), and / or the number of actuations of individual actuators (e.g., wastewater valve, valves, etc.). This facilitates maintenance and its planning. The component statistics can optionally be displayed using a display device of the computer unit 904.

[0177] The computer 904 can be used to remotely diagnose a potential leak, for example, a leak at one or more control valves (also referred to as pressure valves). Alternatively or additionally, a remote diagnosis of a potential malfunction of one or more control valves (e.g., the first control valve 206a) can be performed, for example, by monitoring the vacuum (e.g., low vacuum) using the pressure sensors or pressure switches S1 and S2. Upon detection of the leak and / or malfunction (or other fault), the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state. Optionally, the result of the remote diagnosis can be displayed using a display device of the computer 904.

[0178] The computing device 904 can be used to remotely diagnose a possible malfunction of the water supply valve 216, for example by monitoring the water volume using the flow sensor S3. In response to the detection of a malfunction (or other fault) of the water supply valve 216, the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state.

[0179] The computing device 904 can be used to remotely diagnose a possible leak in the water supply valve 216, for example, using the flow sensor S3. In response to the detection of a leak (or other fault) in the water supply valve 216, the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state. Optionally, the message 902 can contain an instruction to initiate emergency discharge. This prevents the container 102 from overflowing.

[0180] By exchanging message 902, a deactivation of the WC shower (and optionally the emergency discharge) can be triggered (also referred to as initiating it), for example, in response to a detected overfill level by the flow sensor S3. In response to the detection of an overfill level (or another fault), the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state.

[0181] The computing device 904 enables remote diagnosis of a potential leak in the water supply valve 216 using the level sensor S4 (e.g., a water level sensor or water switch). Upon detection of a leak (or other fault) in the water supply valve 216, the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state. Optionally, message 902 can contain an instruction to initiate emergency discharge. This prevents the container 102 from overflowing.

[0182] The computing device 904 enables remote diagnosis of a possible blockage (also referred to as a clog, e.g., a toilet blockage) using the level sensor S4. Upon detection of a blockage (or other malfunction) of the water supply valve 216, the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state. Optionally, message 902 can contain an instruction to initiate emergency discharge. This prevents the container 102 from overflowing.

[0183] By exchanging message 902, a deactivation of the toilet shower (and optionally triggering the emergency discharge) can be triggered (also referred to as initiating), e.g. in response to a detected fill level exceedance.

[0184] In response to the detection of an overfill level (or other fault), the alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received by the control device 106 can contain an instruction to activate the alarm state. Several examples are described below, relating to what has been described previously and what is shown in the figures.

[0185] Example 1 is a vacuum wastewater device comprising: a wastewater collection tank, a vacuum wastewater connection; a (e.g., fluid-mechanical) wastewater valve connected between the wastewater collection tank and the vacuum wastewater connection; at least one electrical actuator configured to change an actual state (e.g., actual operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device; a control device configured to receive a message according to a network communication protocol, wherein the message contains information (e.g., an instruction) regarding a target state (e.g., target operating point); and (e.g., in response to receiving the message according to the network communication protocol and / or triggered by receiving the message according to the network communication protocol) controlling the at least one electrical actuator according to the target state.

[0186] Example 2 is the vacuum wastewater device according to Example 1, further comprising: at least one sensor configured to detect the current state; wherein the control device is further configured to generate a message according to the network communication protocol, which contains an indication representing the current state, wherein optionally the sensor or each sensor of the at least one sensor has a switch (measuring switch); wherein, for example, the switch is configured to distinguish between several (e.g., only two and / or only discrete) states of the measured quantity; wherein, for example, the sensor has a level switch (e.g., float switch or capacitance switch). Example 3 is the vacuum wastewater device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the current state has one or more than one of the following operating parameters:wherein the sensor is configured to detect one or more of the following operating parameters: a fill level of the wastewater collection tank; a water inflow supplied to the wastewater collection tank, e.g. its rate and / or total; a first pressure (e.g. first vacuum) applied to a control input of the wastewater valve; a second pressure (e.g. second vacuum) applied to the wastewater outlet; a difference between the first pressure (e.g. first vacuum) and the second pressure (e.g. second vacuum); and / or a pressure drop (e.g. vacuum) across the actuator.

[0187] Example 4 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the at least one electrical actuator has a first electromechanical actuator which is connected between the wastewater valve (e.g. its control input) and the vacuum wastewater connection and / or is controlled by the control device according to the target state.

[0188] Example 5 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 4, further comprising: a control gas inlet, wherein the at least one electrical actuator has a second electromechanical actuator which is connected between the wastewater valve (e.g. its control input) and the control gas inlet and / or is controlled by the control device according to the desired state, wherein optionally the control gas inlet has an air inlet exposed to the atmosphere.

[0189] Example 6 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising: a water supply connection, wherein the at least one electrical actuator has a third electromechanical actuator which is connected between the wastewater collection tank and the water supply connection and / or is controlled by the control device according to the target state.

[0190] Example 7 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising: a water supply connection and a toilet shower, wherein the at least one electrical actuator has a fourth actuator which is configured to switch the toilet shower between an activated state and a deactivated state, wherein, for example, the fourth actuator is connected between the water supply connection and the toilet shower and / or is controlled by the control device according to the desired state.

[0191] Example 8 is the vacuum wastewater device according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the control device is configured to control the at least one electrical actuator according to a stored parameter, wherein the control device is configured to update the parameter according to an additional message received according to the communication protocol.

[0192] Example 9 is the vacuum wastewater device according to Example 8, wherein the parameter represents a time duration which separates two (e.g. immediately successive) actuation processes of the at least one electrical actuator from each other (e.g. an opening duration and / or a closing duration), wherein, for example, the time duration includes a flushing duration or a draining duration.

[0193] Example 10 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the control device is further configured to generate a message according to the network communication protocol, which contains one or more than one of the following: a location of the vacuum wastewater device; a frequency with which the at least one electrical actuator was actuated; an operational readiness of the vacuum wastewater device; an alarm state of the vacuum wastewater device; a time indication of an (e.g., last) actuation of the wastewater valve; and / or a frequency with which the wastewater valve was actuated.

[0194] Example 11 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the network-

[0195] The communication protocol is a wireless communication protocol (also known as a wireless network communication protocol); and / or a wired communication protocol (also known as a wired network communication protocol), and / or a communication protocol of a cellular network; and / or a communication protocol of a computer network (e.g., Ethernet).

[0196] Example 12 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the actuation of the at least one electrical actuator triggers one of the following operating functions: a flushing process; an emergency emptying; a emptying sequence.

[0197] Example 13 is the vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the actuation of the at least one electrical actuator triggers one of the following operating functions: a countermeasure; a deactivation of a toilet shower; an activation of an alarm condition.

[0198] Example 14 is the vacuum wastewater device according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, further comprising: one or more than one sensor, wherein the control device is further configured to perform the procedure according to any one of Examples 18 to 20. Example 15 is a system comprising: one or more than one vacuum wastewater device according to any one of Examples 1 to 14 or according to Example 22; at least one (i.e., one or more than one) computing device, wherein the computing device or devices are optionally configured to send the message according to the network communication protocol; wherein the computing device is optionally configured to perform the procedure according to any one of Examples 18 to 20; wherein the computing device is optionally configured to put the vacuum wastewater device into an alarm state when (e.g.,(based on the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device) a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device was determined, wherein, for example, each of the more than one vacuum wastewater device is registered by the computing device according to the network communication protocol.

[0199] Example 16 is the system according to Example 15, wherein the computing device is configured to display one or more than one of the following (e.g., based on the message from the control device and / or by means of a display device): water consumption of the vacuum wastewater device; current state (e.g., operational readiness and / or current operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device; detected malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0200] Example 17 is the system according to Example 15 or 16, wherein the computing device is optionally configured to display one or more of the following information: the location of the vacuum wastewater device; the frequency (e.g., showing a frequency and / or a number of actuations) with which the at least one electrical actuator has been actuated; the operational readiness of the vacuum wastewater device; the time of an (e.g., last) actuation of the wastewater valve; the time of the last maintenance of the vacuum wastewater device; and / or the frequency (e.g., showing a frequency and / or a number of actuations) with which the wastewater valve has been actuated.

[0201] Example 18 is a method for operating a vacuum wastewater device (e.g., the vacuum wastewater device Examples 1 to 17), comprising: detecting a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device, and issuing an error message representing the detected malfunction, wherein, for example, issuing the error message includes placing the vacuum wastewater device in an alarm state by means of a message generated (sent and / or received) according to the communication protocol, wherein the malfunction includes, for example, a blockage or a leak (also referred to as a leakage), e.g., a leak in the at least one electrical actuator and / or a blockage in the wastewater valve.

[0202] Example 19 is the procedure according to Example 18, comprising the determination of the malfunction: Determining a deviation of an actual state (e.g., actual operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device from a target state (e.g., target operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device by means of a sensor of the vacuum wastewater device, to which, for example, several (e.g., stored) malfunctions of the vacuum wastewater device are assigned; Determining one malfunction from the several malfunctions based on at least one piece of information (also referred to as additional information) about the vacuum wastewater device, wherein the information is optionally assigned to the malfunction.

[0203] Example 20 is the method according to Example 19, wherein the information is stored, and / or wherein the information is determined by means of an additional sensor of the vacuum wastewater device and / or by controlling an electrical actuator of the vacuum wastewater device (e.g. to perform a functional test of the vacuum wastewater device), e.g. as a response thereto.

[0204] Example 21 is a control device configured to perform the procedure according to one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein the control device is, for example, a control device of the vacuum wastewater device or a control device external to the vacuum wastewater device (e.g. provided by means of an external computing device).

[0205] Example 22 is a vacuum wastewater device comprising: a wastewater collection tank, a vacuum wastewater connection; a (e.g., fluid-mechanical) wastewater valve connected between the wastewater collection tank and the vacuum wastewater connection; one or more sensors; a control device according to Example 21, the vacuum wastewater device optionally further comprising: a vacuum wastewater connection and / or a water supply connection; and / or at least one electrical actuator configured to change an actual state (e.g., actual operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0206] Example 23 are code segments that are set up, when executed by a processor, to perform the procedure according to one of Examples 18 to 20.

[0207] Example 24 is a non-volatile storage medium that has the code segments according to Example 23.

[0208] Example 25 is a remote control unit comprising one or more processors configured for: generating a message according to a network communication protocol, wherein the message is addressed to a vacuum wastewater device and includes information on a target state (e.g., target operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device; and remotely controlling (e.g., indirectly controlling via a control device of the vacuum wastewater device) at least one electrical actuator of the vacuum wastewater device by means of the message, wherein the remote control is optionally based on a determined actual state of the vacuum wastewater device or based on user input at the remote control unit, wherein the one or more processors are optionally further configured to perform the method according to one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein the vacuum wastewater device is optionally configured according to Examples 1 to 17 or according to Example 22.

Claims

A vacuum wastewater device (100), including:·         a wastewater collection container (102),·         vacuum wastewater fitting (202);·         a wastewater valve (204), which is connected between the wastewater collection container (102) and the vacuum wastewater fitting (202);·         at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 216), which is configured to change an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100),·         wherein the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) includes a first electromechanical final control element, which is connected between the wastewater valve (204) and the vacuum wastewater fitting (202); a control unit (106), which is configured·         to receive a message (902) according to a network communication protocol, wherein the message (902) includes a specification on a target state; and·         to activate the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) according to the target state. The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 1, furthermore including:·         at least one sensor (S1 to S4), which is configured to detect the actual state;·         wherein the control unit (106) is furthermore configured to generate a message (902) according to the network communication protocol, which includes a specification representing the actual state. The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor includes a switch.The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one sensor is configured to detect one or more than one of the following parameters:·         a fill level of the wastewater collection container (102);·         a water inflow supplied to the wastewater collection container (102);·         a first pressure applied at a control input of the wastewater valve (204),·         a second pressure applied at the wastewater fitting;·         a difference between the first pressure and the second pressure; or·         a pressure dropping across the final control element (206a, 206b, 208). The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 1, furthermore including:·         a control gas inlet,·         wherein the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) includes a second electromechanical final control element, which is connected between the wastewater valve (204) and the control gas inlet. The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the control gas inlet has an air inlet exposed to an atmosphere.The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 1, furthermore including:·         a supply water fitting,·         wherein the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) includes a third electromechanical final control element, which is connected between the wastewater collection container (102) and the supply water fitting. A vacuum wastewater device (100), including:·         a wastewater collection container (102),·         vacuum wastewater fitting (202);·         a wastewater valve (204), which is connected between the wastewater collection container (102) and the vacuum wastewater fitting (202);·         at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 216), which is configured to change an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100), a control unit (106), which is configured·         to receive a message (902) according to a network communication protocol, wherein the message (902) includes a specification on a target state; and·         to activate the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) according to the target state; ·         to activate the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) according to a stored parameter, and·         to update the parameter according to an additional message (902) received according to the communication protocol. The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the parameter represents a chronological duration, which separates two positioning processes of the at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) from one another.The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the activation of the at least one electrical final control element triggers one of the following operating functions:·         a flushing process;·         an emergency emptying; or·         an emptying sequence. The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the control unit (106) is furthermore configured to generate a message (902) according to the network communication protocol, which includes one or more than one of the following specifications:·         a location of the vacuum wastewater device (100);·         an operational readiness of the vacuum wastewater device (100); or·         a time specification about an actuation of the wastewater valve (204). The vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the network communication protocol includes a wireless communication protocol or a wired communication protocol.A system (700), including:·         one or more than one vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9,·         at least one computing device (902, 606, 604), which is configured to send the message (902) according to the network communication protocol. The system (700) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the computing device is furthermore configured to·         ascertain (801, 803) a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device (100);·         output (805) a fault message which represents the ascertained malfunction. The system (700) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the malfunction includes a clog of the wastewater valve (204) or a leak of the electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208).The system (700) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the computing device is furthermore configured to display one or more than one of the following specifications:·         a water consumption of the vacuum wastewater device (100);·         the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100); or·         an ascertained malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device (100). The system (700) as claimed in claim 13, wherein the computing device is furthermore configured to display one or more than one of the following specifications:·         a location of the vacuum wastewater device;·         a frequency at which the at least one electrical final control element was activated;·         an operational readiness of the vacuum wastewater device;·         a time specification about a last occurring actuation of the wastewater valve;·         a time specification about a last occurring maintenance of the vacuum wastewater device; or·         a frequency at which the wastewater valve was actuated. A method (800) for operating the vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9,·         ascertaining (801) a deviation of an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100) from a target state of the vacuum wastewater device (100) by means of a sensor (S1 to S4) of the vacuum wastewater device (100), with which multiple malfunctions of the vacuum wastewater device (100) are associated;·         ascertaining (803) one malfunction of the multiple malfunctions based on at least one specification about the vacuum wastewater device (100), which is associated with the malfunction;·         outputting (805) a fault message which represents the ascertained malfunction. A control unit (106, 904), which is configured to carry out the method (800) as claimed in claim 18. A nonvolatile storage medium, including code segments which are configured when executed by a processor to carry out the method (800) according to claim 18.A remote-control unit for controlling the vacuum wastewater device (100) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, including one or more than one processor, which is configured to:·         generate a message according to a network communication protocol, wherein the message (902) is addressed to a vacuum wastewater device (100) and includes a specification on a target state of the vacuum wastewater device (100); and·         remotely control at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) of the vacuum wastewater device (100) by means of the message.

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