Water supply system

Abstract

The invention provides a water supply system. The system comprises: a central water supply device (2); a plurality of faucets (3); at least one operating device (4) located at a faucet; a piping system (5) connecting the central water supply and the plurality of faucets, the piping system comprising a separate flow path from the central water supply to each faucet; and the controller (6) is used for respectively controlling the water flow from the central water supply device to the plurality of faucets and respectively controlling the outlet water temperature of the water flow at the water outlet of the central water supply device. A controller is located at the central water supply, and the controller is operable by an operating device at the faucet.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202180011732.9, with the international application number PCT / EP2021 / 052022, the filing date of 28 January 2021, and the title of “Water supply system”. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a water supply system and a method of controlling a water supply system, more specifically the present disclosure relates to controlling water flow and temperature in the system. BACKGROUND

[0003] Traditionally, a water supply system comprises a hot water supply pipe, a cold water supply pipe and a circulation pipe to ensure that a user does not have to wait too long before obtaining water of an acceptable temperature at the various taps. SUMMARY

[0004] It is an object of embodiments of the present disclosure to provide an improved water supply system.

[0005] It is a further object of embodiments of the present disclosure to provide an improved method of controlling a water supply system.

[0006] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a water supply system, comprising:

[0007] - a central water supply device,

[0008] - a plurality of taps;

[0009] - at least one operating device at one of the taps,

[0010] - a piping system connecting the central water supply device and the plurality of taps, the piping system comprising a separate flow path from the central water supply device to each of the taps; and

[0011] - a controller for controlling water flow from the central water supply device to the plurality of taps and for controlling the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply device, respectively;

[0012] wherein the controller is located at the central water supply device, and wherein the controller is operable via the at least one operating device at the taps.

[0013] By providing the controller at the central water supply device and being operable via the operating device at the taps, a non-pressurized water supply system is provided. This non-pressurized water supply system has the advantage that in case of a leak in the piping system, only the amount of water contained in the pipes from the central water supply device to the taps will flow out in the building.

[0014] The water supply system can be a domestic water supply system for supplying domestic water in residential buildings such as single family homes and apartments, a water supply system for supplying water in offices, industries, agriculture, health care (e.g. hospitals) or other water consuming locations. The water supply system can additionally supply heating water to the residential buildings, offices, industries, agriculture, health care (e.g. hospitals) or other locations where heating is required.

[0015] The central water supply device can be a water tank for storing water within a building in which the water supply system is arranged. Alternatively, the central water supply device can be a manifold, a water inlet of the building, a common water storage device for supplying multiple buildings, etc. The term "central water supply device" refers to the fact that the water tank / manifold / water inlet is capable of supplying water to multiple faucets in a building or multiple faucets in multiple buildings.

[0016] The system comprises a plurality of faucets. At the faucets, a user can turn on the faucet to release water for drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, etc. In the context of the present invention, the term "faucet" encompasses not only conventional faucets in kitchens, bathrooms, other rooms having one or more faucets, etc., outdoor faucets, but also faucets at showers, bathtubs, Jacuzzis or hot tubs, etc. Furthermore, the term "faucet" also encompasses toilets, bidets, washing machines, dishwashers, etc. Thus, a "faucet" can be any element within or outside a building at which a faucet can be turned on to release water for drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, washing, flushing, etc.

[0017] In an alternative embodiment, the water supply system can be used for supplying heating water, wherein the faucets can alternatively encompass radiators, floor heaters or similar heaters. Thus, in the following, the term "faucet" also encompasses "heater".

[0018] An operating device is located at at least one faucet to allow a user to turn on the faucet to release water. "Operating" for example means starting and stopping the water flow from the central water supply device. The controller located at the central water supply device and the operating device located at the faucet are two separate devices. The water supply system can comprise a plurality of operating devices. These operating devices can each operate the controller to control the water flow to each faucet. In one embodiment, an operating device is located at each faucet. However, in an alternative embodiment, two or more faucets can share an operating device. As an example, a shower and a washbasin located in the same room can each comprise a faucet, but both faucets can be operated by a single operating device.

[0019] The operating device can be configured to generate an electrical demand signal, and the controller can be configured to receive the electrical demand signal and configured to control the water flow and the water temperature in response to the demand signal. The electrical demand signal can be communicated from the operating device to the controller by wireless communication. In an alternative embodiment, the communication can be wired communication.

[0020] The piping system connects the central water supply device and the plurality of faucets. The piping system forms a water flow path from the central water supply device to the plurality of faucets, wherein the piping system comprises a separate flow path from the central water supply device to each of the plurality of faucets. The piping system can be formed by a single pipe extending from the central water supply device to the plurality of faucets. In one embodiment, the piping system can comprise a plurality of pipes.

[0021] The piping system can be formed from polypropylene, different types of polyethylene, metal or other suitable materials.

[0022] Typically, the pipes have a circular cross-section. However, it will be appreciated that other cross-sections, such as an elliptical cross-section, a square, a triangular cross-section, or any other cross-section, are also applicable.

[0023] The diameter of the pipes of the piping system having a circular cross-section can be in the range of 5-100 mm, or even more. It will be appreciated that the diameter of a pipe connected to one faucet can be different from the diameter of a pipe connected to another faucet. Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the diameter of the piping system can vary. In a residential building, the inner diameter of a pipe for supplying water to a faucet (e.g. in a kitchen or bathroom) is typically about 8 mm, and the outer diameter is about 12 mm. It will be appreciated that pipes having other diameters can also be applicable. As an example, the size of the pipes can depend on the distance to the faucet, the amount of water expected to be used, the maximum flow demand required, etc.

[0024] The water supply system further comprises a controller for controlling the water flow from the central water supply device to the plurality of faucets. In a simple embodiment, the controller can be adjustable between a fully open configuration and a closed configuration, thereby providing a maximum flow (100% flow) or zero flow. In an alternative embodiment, the controller can be adjustable between a plurality of configurations allowing a plurality of different flow rates between the maximum flow (100% flow) and zero flow.

[0025] The controller is located at the central water supply, whereby the flow is regulated at the central water supply. The controller can be operated via an operating device at the faucet, whereby the user can operate the controller from the position of the faucet. The communication between the controller and the operating device can be wireless, for example by using wireless communication of WIFI. As an example, the operating device can be attached to a wall, a wash basin, a cabinet, or other elements in the area of the faucet. In one embodiment, the size and shape of the operating device can allow the operating device to be built into a fixture for a conventional wall socket. The operating device can thus be in a fixed position. In an alternative embodiment, the operating device can be a portable device.

[0026] In one embodiment, the operating device can be a mobile phone, or other similar portable device. In a specific embodiment, the operating device can be constituted by a mobile phone and the operation of the controller can be performed by an application (App) on the mobile phone. In an alternative embodiment, the operating device can be operated via a mobile phone or similar device.

[0027] In order to facilitate the regulation of the water flow from the central water supply, the controller can comprise at least one flow regulator, for example a valve, for controlling the water flow. Thus, the controller can comprise at least one of a valve, a motor, a PCB, and other elements for controlling the flow and for communication with the operating device.

[0028] The controller can comprise a separate flow regulator for each faucet, thereby controlling the water volume for each faucet separately.

[0029] The controller is additionally configured to control the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply. In one embodiment, the outlet temperature of the water flow can be controlled by mixing hot and cold water at the central water supply, for example by mixing hot and cold water in a water mixing chamber arranged in communication with the central water supply.

[0030] When controlling the outlet temperature of the water flow, the distance from the relevant faucet can be taken into account, thereby providing a water flow at the faucet with the desired outlet temperature. Thus, in the case of the same desired temperature at the faucet, if a particular faucet is located far from the central water supply, the outlet temperature of the water leaving the central water supply can be higher than the temperature of the water for a faucet closer to the central water supply.

[0031] In order to facilitate the control of the water temperature, the controller can comprise or can be in communication with a control unit, which can comprise an algorithm configured to calculate the required outlet temperature of the water leaving the central water supply, depending on the desired water temperature at the faucet and the distance between the faucet and the central water supply.

[0032] Thus, the controller is configured to control the water flow from the central water supply to each faucet individually and is additionally configured to control the outlet temperature of the water flow from the central water supply to each faucet individually as well. In one embodiment, the flow regulator can be configured to control both the water flow and the outlet temperature of the water flow. This can be done individually for each faucet. In an alternative embodiment, the flow regulator and the temperature regulator can be applied as two independent devices.

[0033] The water supply system can comprise a measuring device configured to measure the outlet temperature of the water from the central water supply system at the outlet. The measurement can be used to fine-tune the temperature of the water flow at the outlet, as the measurement can be used as an input in the regulating algorithm of the controller, thereby facilitating the delivery of water at the desired temperature at the faucet.

[0034] The central water supply device can further comprise a circulation pipe for circulating water through the central water supply device. This can help to ensure that the water temperature at the central water supply device is kept above 55 degrees Celsius to reduce the risk of legionella and can further help to control the water temperature and thus reduce the response time for delivering water at the desired temperature at the faucet.

[0035] To facilitate the individual control of the water flow and the water temperature at each faucet, the piping system comprises a separate flow path from the central water supply device to each faucet.

[0036] An operating device can be located at each faucet, the operating device being configured to communicate with the controller to control the water flow to the faucet and to control the temperature of the water. By arranging an operating device at each faucet, a user can control the water flow and the water temperature to the specific faucet at the faucet in question. It will be appreciated that the operating device can alternatively be used to control the water flow and the water temperature at more than one faucet. These alternatives can be combined, whereby the system can comprise one or more operating devices, each located at one faucet, to operate the controller to control the flow and the temperature to a single faucet, and wherein the system can further comprise one or more operating devices, each located at a faucet, to operate the controller to control the flow and the temperature to one or more faucets.

[0037] The operating device can be configured to receive operating signals in the form of at least one of a touch signal, an audible signal and a gesture signal, and to operate the controller based on the received signals. As an example, the operating device can comprise a touch panel to control the flow and / or temperature by tapping the panel and / or by applying pressure to the panel. In one embodiment, the touch panel can comprise a plurality of areas each assigned a specific amount and / or a specific temperature of water flow, corresponding to a plurality of different user modes. In an alternative embodiment, applying pressure to one area will increase the temperature, while applying pressure to another area will decrease the temperature. Likewise, pressure to one area can increase the flow, while pressure applied to another area can decrease the water flow.

[0038] It will be appreciated that the above described possibility of applying user modes from a plurality of specific areas of the device can be combined with the described application of pressure to certain areas.

[0039] In another embodiment, the operation can be performed by using audible signals. For example, using commands in the form of "warmer", "colder", "more", "less", "stop" and "start". Other commands can also be applicable. It is also possible to include predefined commands corresponding to user modes, such as "brushing teeth", "washing hands" or "shower", where each command corresponds to a flow of water at a specified temperature, with a specified flow, and with a specified duration. In one embodiment, the predefined commands can be interrupted after a start command, for example if the associated activity is regretted.

[0040] In another embodiment, the operation can be performed by gesture signals. The same type of events as described above can be implemented by gestures. For example, if the user's hand moves to the right, the water flow can be warmer.

[0041] It will be appreciated that the above described commands are examples of commands, and that other commands and / or additional commands can also be applicable.

[0042] By applying audible signals and / or gesture signals, the operating device can be operated without touching the operating device, which can reduce the risk of bacterial transfer due to poor hygiene conditions.

[0043] In one embodiment, at least two different types of signals can be combined.

[0044] The controller can be in communication with a database comprising a plurality of predetermined control strategies, each defining a requested water flow and a requested temperature. The predetermined control strategies can thus correspond to a number of user modes, such as "brushing teeth", "washing hands" and "showering". Some of the predetermined control strategies can be stored in the database at the time of installation of the system, while other control strategies can be added by the user via a user interface. In one embodiment, not only control strategies can be added, but also predetermined control strategies can be modified by the user interface. Via the database, the controller can control at least one of the water flow and the temperature. The operating device can be configured for selecting at least one of the predetermined control strategies.

[0045] For additional safety, the pipe system can comprise an inner pipe and an outer pipe arranged coaxially, wherein the outer pipe is configured for protecting the inner pipe. If the inner pipe, which forms the water flow path, is damaged, the leaking water can be retained in the outer pipe without damaging the building. For further safety, a leakage monitoring can be applied by using a pipe system comprising an inner pipe and an outer pipe, as a monitoring element can be arranged in the cavity between the inner pipe and the outer pipe. The monitoring element can be configured to provide an alarm if water is detected in the cavity. In one embodiment, the monitoring element can generate an alarm signal, which can be transmitted to at least one of the controller, the operating device, a mobile phone, a monitoring device, or other device which can be read by the user or which can provide an alarm to the user.

[0046] The water supply system can further comprise a monitoring unit for monitoring the use of water. The controller can be configured to transmit a use signal to the monitoring unit specifying the water flow from the central water supply device, and the monitoring unit can be configured to store said use signal.

[0047] In one embodiment, the monitoring unit can be configured to store the use signal for each water tap separately. For example, the use signal can be compared to a previously stored use signal, i.e. a historical value, and / or the use signal can be compared to an expected value. By these comparisons, malfunctions can be detected, such as a leaking toilet with continuous water usage.

[0048] The controller can further be configured to transmit a temperature signal to the monitoring unit, the temperature signal specifying the temperature of the water flow from the central water supply device. The monitoring unit can likewise be configured to store said temperature signal, whereby the mutual values of flow and temperature can be monitored and can be stored in the monitoring unit.

[0049] The user can be able to log in to the monitoring unit to access the monitored and stored use signals and / or temperature signals. The monitoring unit can alternatively or additionally be in communication with a mobile phone, other portable device, personal computer, or other device accessible to the user.

[0050] When monitoring the flow and temperature, the system can identify that one or more parts of the piping system are predominantly exposed to water in the temperature range of 20-45 degrees Celsius for a period of time. Since Legionella can be dangerous, this danger can be eliminated by means of the monitoring of the flow and temperature if the temperature is not regularly above 55 degrees. If this is found during the monitoring, the system can create a warning signal / message. In response to this, the user can request to heat the water to a temperature above 55 degrees and provide a water flow through the part of the piping in question, thereby killing any Legionella, if any (Legionella flush). The system can comprise safety measures which ensure that the heating of the water is not performed when the user operates the controller at a tap located at the relevant piping system.

[0051] The monitoring of the flow can also provide the possibility to separately calculate the water usage of individual taps. The additional monitoring of the temperature can provide a more accurate calculation. This possibility is particularly suitable for apartment buildings and office buildings which have multiple tenancies.

[0052] In an embodiment, the central water supply device can be in fluid communication with an additional supply device comprising an additional medium, wherein the supply of the additional medium to the at least one tap can be controlled by the controller. The additional medium can be a fluid, such as a gaseous or liquid medium. For example, the additional medium can be CO2 in order to be able to provide soda water / carbonated water. Another example of an additional medium can be a cleaning agent, which is particularly suitable when the tap is a washing machine or dishwasher. In an embodiment, the additional medium can be water which is heated by a cooking appliance, for example, in order to provide water at a temperature which is higher than the temperature of conventional hot water provided by a tap. In an embodiment in which the water supply system is used in an industry, the additional medium can be oil or a colouring agent, for example, for food or fabric. Other media can also be suitable depending on the type of tap.

[0053] In an embodiment, the controller can be configured for simultaneously controlling the supply of water flow and the supply of the additional medium to the at least one tap. Thus, the controller can control the supply of water and the additional medium such that water and the additional medium are supplied simultaneously. Alternatively, simultaneous control can be achieved by alternating the supply of water and the additional medium.

[0054] The additional medium can be supplied to the tap through a separate flow path from the central water supply device to the tap. The additional medium can be mixed with warm and cold water in a water mixing chamber arranged in communication with the central water supply device. In an alternative embodiment, the additional medium can be mixed with warm and cold water in an additional mixing chamber arranged after the water mixing chamber, whereby the additional medium can be added after the required water flow and water temperature are provided. In another alternative, the additional medium can be added to the flow path through an inlet in the piping system without using an additional mixing chamber.

[0055] According to a second aspect, the disclosure provides a method of controlling a water supply system, the water supply system comprising: a central water supply device; a plurality of water taps; an operating device located at one of the water taps; a piping system connecting the central water supply device and the plurality of water taps, the piping system comprising a separate flow path from the central water supply device to each water tap; and a controller for controlling water flow from the central water supply device to at least one water tap and for controlling the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply device, respectively, the controller being located at the central water supply device; the method comprising the step of operating the controller by means of the operating device at the water tap.

[0056] It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that any features described in connection with the first aspect of the disclosure can also be combined with the second aspect of the disclosure and vice versa.

[0057] The water supply system according to the first aspect of the disclosure is well suited to perform the method steps according to the second aspect of the disclosure. Thus, the above description regarding the water supply system applies equally to the method.

[0058] According to a third aspect, the disclosure provides a controller for controlling water flow in a water supply system, the controller comprising: an operating device for receiving a user demand; a flow regulator for controlling the flow in the water supply system and a temperature regulator for controlling the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply device; and a communication device for communicating with the operating device, wherein the controller is configured to control the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply device and the outlet temperature of the water flow based on the demand received from the operating device.

[0059] The flow regulator and the operating device can be two separate devices and the flow regulator can be configured to be positioned at the central water supply device. The operating device can be arranged at a water tap, wherein a user can provide the user demand, thereby controlling the water flow and in one embodiment also the temperature of the water.

[0060] The flow regulator and the temperature regulator can be a single regulating unit, as in the examples below.

[0061] It will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that any features described in connection with the first and second aspects of the disclosure can also be combined with the third aspect of the disclosure and vice versa.

[0062] The controller according to the third aspect of the disclosure is well suited to the water supply system of the first aspect and is well suited to perform the method steps according to the second aspect of the disclosure. The above description regarding the water supply system and the method thus applies equally to the controller.

[0063] In one embodiment, the flow regulator can comprise two separate regulating elements that are movable relative to each other. The water inlet of the flow regulator can comprise a hot water inlet and a cold water inlet. When at least one of the regulating elements is moved, the opening ratio can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the flow of water and the temperature of the water leaving the flow regulator. The hot water inlet and the cold water inlet can be located on one side of the regulating elements, while the water outlet of the flow regulator can be located on the opposite side of the regulating elements.

[0064] The flow regulator can comprise a drive element, such as a motor, which can be configured to move at least one of the regulating elements relative to the other regulating element. In an embodiment, the drive element can be a stepper motor.

[0065] In one embodiment, one of the regulating elements is fixedly mounted in the flow regulator, while the other regulating element is mounted to be movable. The fixed mounting can be denoted as a fixed regulating element, while the mounting to be movable can be denoted as a movable regulating element.

[0066] Each of the regulating elements can comprise one or more openings. By moving the regulating elements relative to each other, the overlap between the one or more openings in the fixed regulating element and the one or more openings in the movable regulating element can be changed, thereby changing the flow and / or the temperature.

[0067] In one embodiment, the fixed regulating element can comprise two openings, one opening being in fluid communication with the hot water inlet of the flow regulator, and the other opening being in fluid communication with the cold water inlet of the flow regulator. The openings can have the same size and / or shape.

[0068] The movable regulating element can comprise two openings, four openings, six openings, eight openings, ten openings, or even more openings, such as 20 openings or 30 openings. At least some of the openings can have different sizes. In one embodiment, the openings are identical in pairs. The flow through the flow regulator can depend on the overlap between the openings in the fixed regulating element and the openings in the movable regulating element. The overlap can also determine the temperature of the water flow.

[0069] By providing regulating elements with different numbers of openings, openings having different sizes and / or shapes, and regulating elements having different sizes and / or shapes, the flow and the water temperature can be varied. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0070] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be further described with reference to the drawings, in which:

[0071] Figure 1 one embodiment of a water supply system is shown,

[0072] Figure 2 Parts of one embodiment of a water supply system are shown,

[0073] Figure 3 Parts of one embodiment of a controller for a water supply system are shown,

[0074] Figure 4 And 5 Parts of the controller shown in Figure 3 are shown,

[0075] Figure 6 Parts of one embodiment of a controller for a water supply system are shown,

[0076] Figure 7 Water flow through a controller for a water supply system is shown schematically,

[0077] Figure 8 Individual parts of one embodiment of a controller for a water supply system are shown,

[0078] Figures 9A-9C Parts of one embodiment of a controller for a water supply system during maintenance / repair are shown,

[0079] Figures 10A-10C One embodiment of a flow regulator is shown,

[0080] Figures 11A-11B One embodiment of a regulating element of the flow regulator shown in 10A-10C is shown,

[0081] Figures 12A-12E The regulating element of Figure 11B in different positions is shown,

[0082] Figure 13 A cross-section of a part of a controller for a water supply system is shown schematically,

[0083] Figure 14 A cross-section of a part of a controller for a water supply system is shown,

[0084] Figure 15 One embodiment of a water supply system is shown schematically,

[0085] Figure 16 One embodiment of an operating device is shown,

[0086] Figure 17A And 17B One alternative embodiment of an operating device is shown,

[0087] Figures 18A-18D Yet another alternative embodiment of an operating device is shown, and

[0088] Figures 19A-19C A further alternative embodiment of the operating device is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] It is to be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, although indicating embodiments of the disclosure, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.

[0090] Figure 1 An embodiment of a water supply system 1 is shown. The water supply system 1 comprises a central water supply 2 and at least one water tap 3. In the shown embodiment, the system comprises five different water taps 3, where BR is a bath tub, HV is a wash basin, and KV is a kitchen wash basin. An operating device 4 is located at each of the water taps 3.

[0091] A pipe system 5 connects each of the water taps 3 and the central water supply 2. The pipe system 5 forms a water flow path from the central water supply 2 to each of the water taps 3. The pipe system 5 is formed by individual pipes extending from the central water supply 2 to each of the water taps 3 to form a separate flow path to each water tap 3.

[0092] The water supply system 1 further comprises a controller 6 for controlling the water flow from the central water supply 2 to the water taps 3 and for controlling the water temperature. The controller 6 is located at the central water supply 2 and is operable by the operating device 4 at the water taps 3.

[0093] In the shown embodiment, the water supply system 1 is arranged in a single family house 7, seen from above.

[0094] Figure 2 A part of an embodiment of the water supply system 1 is shown. Each of the boxes 100 comprises six individual controller elements 6' (see Figure 3 , 4 and 5). Each controller element 6' forms part of the controller 6 for controlling the water flow and for controlling the water temperature. The pipe system 5 forming the individual water flow paths from the central water supply 2 to each of the water taps 3 is shown by the part of the individual pipes extending from each of the boxes 100.

[0095] Figure 3 A part of an embodiment of the controller 6 for the water supply system 1 is shown. The controller 6 comprises six individual flow regulators 14, each flow regulator comprising a valve chamber (see Figure 14 , two regulating elements (see Figure 11A and 11B) and stepper motor 16. Hot water inlet 17A and cold water inlet 17B are located above to provide hot and cold water to each flow regulator. The piping system 5 forming the individual water flow paths from the central water supply 2 to each of the faucets 3 is to be connected at the outlet 18. At the outlet 18, a pipe (not shown) is connected through a valve which enables manual shut off of the single pipe in case of repair, maintenance or emergency.

[0096] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A portion of the controller 6 is shown. Figure 3 A portion of the controller 6 is shown.

[0097] Figure 6 A portion of the controller 6 for controlling water flow of one embodiment of the water supply system 1 is shown. In the shown embodiment, the controller 6 comprises six individual housing elements 10, three manifolds 12, and six flow regulators in the form of valves 14 (see Figure 3 ), wherein a valve 14 is located in each individual housing element 10. Thus, the shown controller 6 is configured for controlling water flow to six faucets 3. The piping system 5 forming the water flow paths from the central water supply 2 to each of the faucets 3 is shown by a portion of the individual pipes extending from each of the housing elements 10.

[0098] Inlets for hot and cold water are represented by two valves 13.

[0099] Figure 7 Water flow through the controller 6 for the water supply system 1 is shown schematically. Hot and cold water is supplied to each flow regulator 14 through hot water inlet 17A and cold water inlet 17B. A common hot water pipe 117A supplies hot water, while a common cold water supply pipe 117B supplies cold water. In the flow regulator 14, hot and cold water is mixed to provide water having a requested temperature and flow. In the shown embodiment, the flow regulator 14 comprises a regulating element (see also Figure 11A and 11B ) and a stepper motor as described below with respect to Figs. 10-14.

[0100] Figure 7 The controller 6 shown in Fig. 1 further comprises additional valves 114 to allow supply of an additional medium to at least one of the faucets. In the shown embodiment, the additional medium can be supplied to each of the faucets, since the additional valves 114 are arranged in communication with each of the flow regulators 14. A common additional medium pipe 117C supplies the additional medium.

[0101] Water and additional medium is supplied to each of the faucets through individual outlets 18.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, a separate flow meter FM and temperature sensor TS are provided at each outlet 18, thereby providing the ability to monitor water consumption for both flow and temperature.

[0103] Figure 8 The various parts of the controller 6 are shown in exploded view. Figure 6 The two valves 14 can be attached to the manifold 12 and each of the valves 14 can be covered by a separate housing element 10.

[0104] Figures 9A-9C The replacement and / or adjustment of parts of the valve 14 during maintenance / repair is shown. Figure 6 The various parts of the controller 6 are shown.

[0105] Figure 9A The replacement of the entire control element 6' of the controller 6 is shown. The entire control element 6' can be removed by loosening the four screws 11 and the tube 5.

[0106] Figure 9B The replacement of the entire control element 6' of the controller 6 is shown. The entire control element 6' can be removed by loosening the four screws 11 and the tube 5.

[0107] Figure 9C The replacement of the entire control element 6' of the controller 6 is shown. The entire control element 6' can be removed by loosening the four screws 11 and the tube 5.

[0108] Figures 10A-10C One embodiment of a flow regulator 14 in the form of a valve is shown. The flow regulator 14 includes valve chambers 14A, 14B, two regulating elements 15A, 15B (see also Figure 11A and 11B ), and a stepper motor 16. The stepper motor 16 is configured to move one of the regulating elements 15B relative to the other regulating element 15A. It will be appreciated that the stepper motor in another embodiment can be replaced by other types of motors or drive elements capable of moving at least one of the regulating elements.

[0109] The water inlets of the flow regulator 14 include a hot water inlet 17A and a cold water inlet 17B. When one of the regulating elements 15B is moved, the regulating aperture ratio is adjusted, thereby adjusting the water flow and water temperature exiting the flow regulator 14. The hot water inlet 17A and the cold water inlet 17B are located on one side of the regulating elements 15A, 15B, while the water outlets 18 of the flow regulator 14 are located on the opposite side of the regulating elements. A mixing chamber 118 is formed on this opposite side of the regulating elements 15A, 15B. The water outlets 18 are in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 118 to provide water of the desired flow and temperature at each faucet.

[0110] Figures 11A-11B The various parts of the controller 6 are shown in exploded view. Figures 10A-10COne embodiment of the flow regulator's regulating elements 15A and 15B is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, regulating element 15B is a movable element, while the other regulating element 15A is a fixed element.

[0111] The openings 19A in the fixed regulating element 15A are in fluid communication with the hot water inlet 17A and the cold water inlet 17B, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the movable regulating element 15B includes ten openings 19B. Some of the openings 19B have different sizes. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings 19B are identical in pairs; that is, the ten openings 19B are formed such that five different sizes exist. The flow rate through the flow regulator 14 depends on the overlap between the openings 19A in the fixed regulating element 15A and the openings 19B in the movable regulating element 15B. This overlap also determines the temperature of the water flow.

[0112] Figures 12A-12E Showing different locations Figure 11B The regulating element 15B. Different positions correspond to different water temperatures:

[0113] Figure 12A —Water flow at 6 degrees Celsius at 1 / 5 flow rate

[0114] Figure 12B — 60 degrees Celsius water flow at 5 / 5 flow rate (fully open)

[0115] Figure 12C —Water flow at 20 degrees Celsius at 2 / 5 flow rate

[0116] Figure 12D —Water flow at 38 degrees Celsius at 4 / 5 flow rate

[0117] Figure 12E — Zero water flow.

[0118] Waterway Figures 12A-12E The uncolored opening in the flow regulator flows through the flow regulator. The dark and tinted openings are openings in the movable regulating element 15B that are blocked by the fixed regulating element 15A.

[0119] It should be understood that the above figures correspond to having Figure 11A and Figure 11B The flow regulator 14 shown is a specific embodiment of the regulating elements 15A and 15B. Flow rate and water temperature can be varied by providing regulating elements with different numbers of openings, different sizes and / or shapes of openings, and other sizes and / or shapes.

[0120] Figure 13 A cross-section of a portion of the controller 6 for the water supply system 1 is schematically shown. The flow regulator 14 includes two regulating elements 15A and 15B (see also...). Figure 11A and11B ) and a stepper motor 16. The water inlets of the flow regulator 14 comprise a hot water inlet 17A and a cold water inlet 17B. The hot water inlet 17A and the cold water inlet 17B are located at one side of the regulating elements 15A, 15B, while the water outlet 18 of the flow regulator 14 is located at the opposite side of the regulating elements. At this opposite side a mixing chamber 118 is formed. The water outlet 18 is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 118 to provide water at the required flow and temperature at each tap. An additional valve 114 is provided to allow the supply of an additional medium to at least one of the taps. The additional medium is provided to the mixing chamber 118 via the additional valve 114.

[0121] When an additional medium is provided via the additional valve 114, the regulating elements 15A, 15B can be in a closed configuration, whereby no water is allowed to flow through the openings 19A, 19B in the regulating elements (see Figure 11A , 11B ). Thereby a backflow of the additional medium into the hot and cold water sources can be achieved.

[0122] Figure 14 A cross-section of a part of the controller 6 for the water supply system 1 is shown. The flow regulator 14 comprises two regulating elements 15A, 15B and a stepper motor 16. The water inlets of the flow regulator 14 comprise a hot water inlet 17A and a cold water inlet 17B. An additional medium is provided at the water inlet 17C. The water outlet 18 is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber 118 to provide water at the required flow and temperature at each tap.

[0123] Figure 15 One embodiment of the water supply system 1 is shown schematically. The upper controller 6A comprises eight manifolds for supplying water to eight different taps. The middle controller 6B comprises eight manifolds for supplying water to eight different taps in the form of heaters, for example radiators and / or floor heaters. The lower controller 6C comprises eight manifolds for returning water from eight different heaters.

[0124] The flow direction is indicated by the arrows 30. The water supply system 1 further comprises a plurality of non-return valves 32 and a pump 34.

[0125] The water supply system further comprises three different water reservoirs 36. In the shown embodiment, the upper water reservoir 36, indicated with 1, is used for boiling water, the middle water reservoir 36, indicated with 2, is used for cold water, while the lower water reservoir 36, indicated with 3, is used for cold soda water. The three water reservoirs 36, i.e. each comprising an additional supply of an additional medium, are in fluid communication with the controller 6D, such that the additional medium can be supplied to the controllers 6A, 6B and 6C via an additional water inlet (not shown) in each of the controllers.

[0126] Figure 16One embodiment of the operating device 4 is shown. In the left part of Fig. 9, the operating device 4 is mounted on the wall next to the faucet 3 in the form of a washbasin. The water temperature is shown in the upper part of the operating device 4, here 28.6 degrees Celsius. The touch panel 20 is used to register touches to operate the controls.

[0127] The shown operating device 4 comprises a gesture sensor 22 configured to sense user gestures. In one embodiment, the gesture sensor 22 can be configured to control the operation based on the following gestures: an "up" gesture can increase the flow, while a "down" gesture can decrease the flow. A "left" and a "right" gesture can increase and decrease the temperature, respectively. A gesture towards the gesture sensor 22 can turn the water on and / or off. It should be understood that the above gestures are only examples of gestures. In an alternative embodiment, the "left" and "right" gestures can increase and decrease the flow, respectively.

[0128] It should also be understood that other gestures are applicable, e.g. gestures of different speed / sensitivity or gestures such as a circular gesture.

[0129] Figure 17A and Figure 17B One alternative embodiment of the operating device 4 is shown. In Figure 17B the internal parts of the operating device 4 are visible. The operating device 4 comprises a battery 28, a proximity sensor 24, and three distance sensors 26. In the shown embodiment, the user can select between five levels of water flow and ten levels of water temperature. This is done by hovering the hand over the three distance sensors 26. The flow and temperature are controlled by moving the hand up, down, and from side to side. The proximity sensor 24, which can be a non-contact sensor, or an on / off button can be used to turn the faucet on and off.

[0130] An LED 28 is integrated in the operating device 4. The LED 28 can be used to provide feedback to the user.

[0131] Figures 18A-18D One alternative embodiment of the operating device 4 is shown. The size and shape of the shown operating device 4 allows the operating device to be built into a fixture 40 for a conventional wall socket. The fixture 40 is shown in Figure 18C and 18D front view and from the back. Figure 18A is a front view of the operating device 4, Figure 18B showing the operating device 4 flushly inserted into the wall of the fixture 40.

[0132] The shown operating device 4 comprises four buttons 42 for controlling the water flow and the water temperature, an LED 28 for providing feedback to the user, and a sensor 24 which can be used to turn the faucet on and off.

[0133] Figures 19A-19C An alternative embodiment of the operating device 4 is shown. The shown operating device 4 likewise has a size and shape which allows the operating device to be built into a fixture 40 for a conventional wall socket. The fixture 40 is shown in a front view in Figure 19C Figure 19A is a front view of the operating device 4, Figure 19B The operating device 4 is shown flush inserted into the wall of the fixture 40.

[0134] The shown operating device 4 comprises four touch sensors 44 for controlling the water flow and water temperature by means of the touch sensors 44 and LEDs 28 for providing feedback to the user.​

Claims

1. A water supply system, comprising: - a central water supply device, - a plurality of water taps; - an operating device at one water tap, - a piping system connecting the central water supply device and the plurality of water taps, the piping system comprising a separate flow path from the central water supply device to each water tap; and - a controller for controlling the water flow from the central water supply device to the plurality of water taps, respectively, and for controlling the water temperature of the water flow at the water outlet of the central water supply device, respectively; the controller comprising a flow regulator for each water tap, the flow regulator being configured for controlling both the water flow and the water temperature of the water flow; wherein the controller is located at the central water supply device, and wherein the controller is operable by the operating device at the water tap and the controller is configured to control the water flow and the water temperature based on a demand received from the operating device.

2. The water supply system of claim 1, wherein, The operating device is configured to generate an electrical demand signal, and wherein the controller is configured to receive the electrical demand signal and to control the water flow and the water temperature in response to the electrical demand signal.

3. A water supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, An operating device is located at each water tap, and wherein the operating device is configured to communicate with the controller to control the water flow to the water tap and to control the water temperature of the water flow from the central water supply device.

4. A water supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The operating device is configured to receive an operating signal in the form of at least one of a touch signal, an audible signal, and a gesture signal, and to operate the controller based on the received signal.

5. Water supply system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a database, wherein, The controller is in communication with the database comprising a plurality of predetermined control strategies, each of the predetermined control strategies defining a requested water flow and a requested temperature, and wherein the operating device is configured for selecting at least one predetermined control strategy.

6. A water supply system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The piping system comprises an inner pipe and an outer pipe arranged coaxially, wherein the outer pipe is configured for protecting the inner pipe.

7. Water supply system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a monitoring unit, wherein, The controller is configured to send a usage signal to the monitoring unit specifying the water flow from the central water supply device, and wherein the monitoring unit is configured to store the usage signal.

8. The water supply system of claim 7, wherein, The controller is further configured to send a temperature signal to the monitoring unit specifying the temperature of the water flow from the central water supply device, and wherein the monitoring unit is configured to store the temperature signal.

9. Water supply system according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an additional supply device, wherein, The central water supply device is in fluid communication with the additional supply device comprising an additional medium, and wherein the supply of the additional medium to at least one water tap is controlled by the controller.

10. The water supply system of claim 9, wherein, The controller is configured for simultaneously controlling the supply of the water flow and the supply of the additional medium to at least one water tap.

11. A method of controlling a water supply system, the water supply system comprising: a central water supply device; a plurality of water taps; an operating device at one water tap; a piping system connecting the central water supply and the plurality of faucets, the piping system comprising a separate flow path from the central water supply to each faucet; and a controller for separately controlling water flow from the central water supply to the plurality of faucets and separately controlling the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply, the controller comprising a flow regulator for each faucet configured for controlling both the water flow and the outlet temperature of the water flow, the controller being located at the central water supply; the method comprising the step of operating the controller by the operating device at the faucet to control the water flow and the outlet temperature based on the demand received from the operating device.

12. A controller for controlling water flow in a water supply system, the controller comprising operating means for receiving user demand, flow regulators for controlling flow in the water supply system and for controlling the temperature of the water flow at the outlet of a central water supply, and communication means for communicating with the operating means, the controller comprising a flow regulator for each water outlet, the flow regulator being configured for controlling both water flow and the temperature of the water flow at the outlet, wherein, the controller is configured to control the water flow and the outlet temperature of the water flow at the outlet of the central water supply based on the demand received from the operating device.

13. The controller of claim 12, wherein, the flow regulator and the operating device are two separate devices, and wherein the flow regulator is configured to be positioned at the central water supply.

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