Water supply device and method for supplying a mixing device

Abstract

Water supply device (1) for a room of a mobile home, with a mixing device (2), wherein the mixing device (2) is designed to dispense hot water, wherein the mixing device (2) comprises a fresh water connection and a hot water connection (3, 4), wherein the fresh water connection (3) can be connected to a fresh water supply, and with a hot water tank (5), wherein the hot water connection (4) is connected to the hot water tank (5), wherein the hot water tank (5) is designed as a passive hot water storage tank (5).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a water supply device for a space of a mobile device, in particular a vehicle, comprising a mixing device, wherein the mixing device is designed to dispense warm water, wherein the mixing device comprises a fresh water connection and a hot water connection, wherein the fresh water connection is connectable to a fresh water supply, and a hot water tank, wherein the hot water connection is connected to the hot water tank. The invention also relates to a method for supplying a mixing device of a water supply device.

[0002] Water supply systems are located, for example, in galleys, toilets, or washrooms on vehicles, especially aircraft, and serve to supply people with water. Water supply systems of today's standards are designed to provide fresh and hot water.

[0003] For example, DE 10 2009 021 970 A1 describes an autonomous water module for aircraft with a container, wherein the container has a fresh water tank, a device for dispensing fresh water, and a device for discharging gray water. A water heater, for example, is provided in the water module to heat the fresh water.

[0004] DE 10 2009 017 497 A1 discloses a water supply module for a means of transport. This module comprises an intake connection for receiving water from a supply line, a discharge connection for discharging water to a faucet, a control connection for receiving control commands from an actuating element on the faucet, and a control unit. The control unit is designed to adjust the discharge of water from the discharge connection to the faucet based on control commands from the actuating element. The water supply module is designed as an assembly.

[0005] From DE 298 14 318 U1 a device for dispensing beverages is known which is suitable for mixing a beverage ingredient with hot or cold water in order to obtain a beverage in the desired mixture, which is dispensed into a receiving container.

[0006] The invention is based on the object of proposing a water supply device, in particular a hot water supply device, which is comfortable for a user and at the same time cost-effective and energy-saving for the operator.

[0007] This object is achieved by a water supply device having the features of claim 1 and by a method having the features of claim 15. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention emerge from the subclaims, the following description and / or the attached figures.

[0008] According to patent claim 1, a water supply device for a room of a mobile vehicle, in particular a vehicle, in particular an aircraft, is proposed. The water supply device is suitable and / or designed to provide water. The room is designed, for example, as a bathroom, kitchen, galley, particularly preferably as a washroom of a mobile vehicle. The mobile vehicle is, for example, a truck, a camper van, a bus, an ambulance, a yacht, a helicopter, etc., but particularly preferably an aircraft. In particular, the water supply device can be arranged in an aircraft lavatory and / or washroom of an aircraft in order to supply a person or a passenger with water, in particular hot water, at a sink or other water outlets.

[0009] The water supply device comprises a mixing device, wherein the mixing device is designed to dispense hot water. Hot water is to be understood in particular as the water dispensed or to be dispensed by the water supply device. The hot water is preferably tempered water with a temperature of preferably at least 30°C, preferably at least 35°C and / or at most 40°C. The hot water can be dispensed or dispensed to a faucet of the sink / water outlet, for example in an aircraft lavatory and / or aircraft washroom, e.g., a bathroom, in the kitchen, etc. of the mobile home.

[0010] The mixing device has a fresh water connection and a hot water connection. The fresh water connection can be connected to a fresh water supply.

[0011] The fresh water supply serves to supply the mixing device with fresh water. Fresh water should in particular be understood to mean non-tempered water, which can have temperatures of less than 25°C, in particular less than 20°C, and most especially less than 10°C. The fresh water supply can, for example, comprise a fresh water tank stationary in the mobile vehicle, which is connected or connectable to the mixing device. The fresh water supply can, on the one hand, be designed exclusively to supply fresh water to the mixing device, or, on the other hand, can also be designed to supply fresh water to several stations or consumers in the mobile vehicle, e.g. a water outlet in the galley and the mixing device in the aircraft lavatory.

[0012] The water supply device comprises a hot water tank, wherein the hot water connection is connected to the hot water tank, in particular detachably, in particular in a tool-free manner. The hot water tank is intended and designed to supply the water supply device with hot water.

[0013] Preferably, the hot water connection is designed as a rigid and / or flexible pipe with a free coupling end, wherein the free coupling end is connected to the hot water tank or to a connecting pipe of the hot water tank.

[0014] Advantageously, the connection between the hot water tank and the mixing device is designed and configured such that it has a hot water capacity of less than 0.5 liters, in particular less than 0.3 liters, and most specifically less than 0.1 liters. This design keeps the volume of hot water always remaining in the supply line to the mixing device, which cools faster than in the hot water tank, to a minimum, so that when hot water is drawn off, it is quickly flushed out and can be replaced with hot water from the hot water tank.

[0015] It is particularly advantageous if the pipes are insulated. This ensures that no or only minimal temperature loss occurs in and around the supply lines. Optionally, the water supply device comprises the hot water in the hot water tank, wherein the hot water is tempered water with a temperature of at least 60°C, preferably of at least 80°C, particularly preferably of at least 95°C. In other words, the hot water tank can be designed such that tempered water with a temperature of at least 60°C, at least 80°C, or at least 95°C can be received or stored therein.

[0016] The hot water tank is designed as a passive hot water storage tank. A passive hot water storage tank is a hot water storage tank that operates without external energy, allowing hot water to be filled and stored there without the need for additional energy. In particular, the hot water storage tank is designed to be independent of any power grid or other energy source.

[0017] The advantage of the passive hot water tank is the ability to dispense or provide hot water without any additional energy consumption in the mobile home, i.e., apart from the energy required to heat the hot water to a desired temperature. In particular, this eliminates the need for a water heater, which would otherwise be required to heat the fresh water to the desired temperature. This reduces the weight of the water heater with its associated water and electrical connections, and also reduces the electrical consumption required to heat the fresh water in the mobile home. Particularly in aircraft, the weight and energy savings enable a reduction in kerosene consumption and thus in CO2 emissions. This creates an energy-efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly water supply system.Furthermore, the passive hot water storage tank's simple design allows for quick and cost-effective maintenance, particularly due to the reduction in electrical components required for heating fresh water. Should the passive hot water storage tank become empty, another advantage is the ability to refill it with hot water. In an aircraft, the passive hot water storage tank can be refilled during a turnaround, for example. This eliminates the need for additional heating energy to heat fresh water.

[0018] The passive hot water tank can be designed, in particular, as a container with at least one filling opening for filling the passive hot water tank and an outlet opening for dispensing the hot water. The outlet opening can, for example, be arranged in a bottom wall of the passive hot water tank, wherein the bottom wall preferably forms an underside of the passive hot water tank. In particular, the underside of the passive hot water tank can be aligned with a floor of the mobile home and / or horizontally. The outlet opening preferably comprises a hose section as the connecting pipe, which extends away from the passive hot water tank. The hose section and the outlet opening are preferably connected to one another detachably, in particular detachably without tools, e.g., via a plug connection.The hose section preferably forms an extension section of the outlet opening so that the accessibility of the outlet opening for connecting the passive hot water storage tank to the hot water connection can be made easier.

[0019] To avoid dead zones of the hot water in the passive hot water tank, the bottom wall can be designed in particular in a wedge shape towards the outlet opening. Particularly preferably, the passive hot water tank has an outer cover, wherein the filling opening can be closed by means of the outer cover. To close the filling opening, the outer cover can be plugged, screwed, or similarly attached to the filling opening. Particularly preferably, the outer cover is pivotably arranged on the passive hot water tank, wherein to close the filling opening, the outer cover can be locked to the passive hot water tank, for example by means of a quick-release fastener, in particular a clip closure. Preferably, the filling opening is arranged on an upper side of the passive hot water tank, wherein the upper side defines in particular the opposite side of the underside of the hot water tank.Preferably, the quick-release fastener is designed such that the outer lid is pressed, in particular pressed, onto the filling opening, preferably in such a way that escape of hot water can be avoided, even in the event of turbulence and / or pivoting movements, etc.

[0020] Preferably, a water chamber of the passive hot water storage tank and the filling opening have the same cross-section. The passive hot water storage tank can have a constant cross-section, particularly with regard to its height. The filling opening, with its identical cross-section, forms the maximum possible access opening for user-friendly filling, emptying, and cleaning of the passive hot water storage tank. The passive hot water storage tank can be cylindrical in cross-section, for example, but is preferably cuboid-shaped. A structurally simple design of the passive hot water storage tank can thus be implemented.

[0021] In particular, the passive hot water storage tank is designed to be insulated. For this purpose, the passive hot water storage tank can preferably comprise an insulating means, which can be arranged in the outer walls and, if appropriate, in the outer cover of the passive hot water storage tank. Particularly preferably, the passive hot water storage tank is designed such that, when storing hot water at a temperature of 95°C over a nine-hour period, a temperature difference of 5°C per hour on average is not exceeded. This temperature difference makes it possible, for example, in an aircraft lavatory, to supply passengers with hot water at the sink during a short-haul flight with average water consumption.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the passive hot water tank is designed to be removable without the use of tools. The passive hot water tank can thus be easily and quickly removed from its position in the vehicle and / or from the hot water connection. Removing the passive hot water tank is advantageous, for example, if the passive hot water tank is in an unfavorable position in the vehicle, so that the passive hot water tank can always be filled. In an aircraft, removing the passive hot water tank advantageously allows the emptied passive hot water tank to be replaced with a passive hot water tank filled with hot water, for example, during a turnaround.

[0023] In a preferred development, the water supply device can have a locking mechanism, in particular one that can be operated manually and / or without tools, wherein the passive hot water storage unit is or can be held captively by means of the locking mechanism on the wall and / or floor of the mobile unit, in particular the aircraft lavatory compartment. For example, the locking mechanism can comprise at least one locking lever, which is designed to be displaceable into a locking position and a release position. By displacing the at least one locking lever into the locking position, the passive hot water storage unit or a portion of the passive hot water storage unit can be arranged between the locking lever and the wall and / or floor, so that the captively mounted holder can be implemented.By moving at least one locking lever into the release position, the passive hot water tank can be released for removal.

[0024] In a further preferred embodiment, the water supply device comprises guide rails and guide carriages, wherein the passive hot water storage device is / can be arranged captively via the guide rails on a wall and / or floor of the mobile unit, particularly preferably on a wall of the aircraft lavatory. The guide rails can be arranged, in particular, on the wall and / or floor, preferably horizontally and / or horizontally aligned. The passive hot water storage device can have complementary guide carriages, which are / are designed to engage with the guide rails.

[0025] The guide rails advantageously enable direct and precise positioning of the passive hot water tank in the mobile unit and user-friendly replacement of the passive hot water tank.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment, the passive hot water storage tank has a quick-coupling device, wherein the passive hot water storage tank can be detachably connected to the hot water connection via the quick-coupling device, in particular detachably without tools, i.e., detachably without the mandatory use of tools. In particular, the quick-coupling device can be connected to the at least one outlet opening of the passive hot water storage tank or integrated into the outlet opening, so that the hot water in the passive hot water storage tank can be directed to the hot water connection via the quick-coupling device. The quick-coupling device enables easy coupling and uncoupling of the passive hot water storage tank to and from the hot water connection.The quick-coupling device can be designed, for example, as a screw connection, particularly preferably as a plug-in connection, which can be designed, for example, so that it can be connected and disconnected manually. Thus, the quick-coupling device enables tool-free replacement of the passive hot water tank without significant time expenditure.

[0027] Within the scope of the further development, it is preferred that the quick-coupling device can have a shut-off valve, in particular a check valve. In particular, the quick-coupling device can have shut-off valves or check valves on both sides. When the quick-coupling device is coupled to the hot water connection, the shut-off valve can switch to a flow state, so that a flow of hot water from the passive hot water tank via the quick-coupling device to the hot water connection is possible. When the quick-coupling device is uncoupled from the hot water connection, the shut-off valve can switch to a blocking state, so that a flow of hot water from the quick-coupling device is prevented. In particular, the shut-off valve can comprise a valve element which is pretensioned into a closed state, for example by means of a spring element.wherein, in the closed state, the valve element blocks a flow channel of the quick-coupling device for the hot water, thus preventing or enabling the hot water to escape. The check valve is thus switched to the blocked state. If the valve element is moved from the closed state to a released state, e.g., by pressing open the free coupling end of the hot water connection, the valve element releases the flow channel of the hot water, allowing the hot water to escape. The check valve is thus switched to the flow state. For example, the check valve can be designed as a ball valve or as a poppet valve.

[0028] Alternatively, or optionally, the hot water connection includes a check valve. The check valve is preferably located at the free coupling end of the hot water connection. Thus, when the passive hot water storage tank is disconnected from the hot water connection, no or only minimal hot water escapes from the hot water connection. For example, the check valve is designed as a ball valve or a poppet valve.

[0029] A preferred design implementation is characterized in that the passive hot water tank can have a water-impermeable and air-permeable membrane for an air inlet into the passive hot water tank. The membrane forms the only fluidic connection between the water chamber and the ambient air. The air inlet into the passive hot water tank enables pressure equalization when the hot water level in the hot water tank decreases. A steady, even discharge of hot water from the outlet opening can thus be achieved. The membrane can be arranged, for example, in a wall and / or in the outer cover of the passive hot water tank.

[0030] The passive hot water storage tank particularly preferably has an intermediate cover in which the membrane is arranged at least in sections. In particular, the intermediate cover can be designed as a water- and / or air-tight seal of the passive hot water storage tank. The intermediate cover can preferably be arranged in the passive hot water storage tank directly on an underside of the outer cover in order to achieve a maximum capacity of hot water in the passive hot water storage tank. Furthermore, the intermediate cover can be designed such that it can seal the hot water tank together with the outer cover. In particular, the intermediate cover can be designed so that it can be removed from the passive hot water storage tank. If the access opening is blocked by the intermediate cover, the membrane can be removed orRemoving the intermediate cover provides access to the passive hot water tank for filling, emptying and cleaning the passive hot water tank.

[0031] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the passive hot water storage tank has a maximum capacity of eight liters, in particular a maximum of six liters, and especially a maximum of four liters. Such capacities ensure, for example, that passengers in an aircraft lavatory can be supplied with hot water at the sink during a short-haul flight with typical and average hot water consumption.

[0032] Should the passive hot water tank be emptied due to unusually high usage, fresh water will still be available to the passenger.

[0033] With the stated capacity, the passive hot water storage tank enables a comparatively low overall weight and compact construction.

[0034] One advantage of this implementation is that the passive hot water tank is portable for one person. This allows for quick and easy replacement at any time.

[0035] On the other hand, the low overall weight requires a correspondingly low kerosene consumption in the aircraft, so that an environmentally friendly water supply system can be implemented.

[0036] For example, the passive hot water storage tank has an empty weight of no more than 2.5 kg, in particular no more than 2.0 kg, and especially no more than 1.65 kg. Thus, the passive hot water storage tank can be implemented with a total weight of no more than 10.5 kg.

[0037] Airplanes in particular have limited space. Therefore, a further advantage of the compact design of the passive hot water storage tank is the effective use of the spatially restricted location of the lavatory compartments. The passive hot water storage tank has, for example, a width and height of no more than 500 mm, in particular no more than 300 mm, especially no more than 250 mm and / or a depth of no more than 300 mm, in particular no more than 200 mm, especially no more than 110 mm. The passive hot water storage tank can, for example, be arranged on a wall behind a mirror or mirror cabinet in the mobile unit, in particular in the aircraft lavatory compartment. It is also possible and conceivable for the passive hot water storage tank to be adapted in the form of a structure in the mobile unit, i.e. an internal contour, curvature, etc. This allows space-saving designs in particular to be implemented.

[0038] A preferred design implementation of the invention provides that the mixing device comprises a mixing unit with a fresh water channel, a hot water channel, and a mixing channel, wherein the mixing channel is designed to mix the fresh water and hot water from the fresh water channel and the hot water channel to dispense or generate the hot water. In particular, the fresh water can flow into the mixing channel via the fresh water channel, and the hot water via the hot water channel. Preferably, the fresh water channel is connected to the fresh water connection, and the hot water channel is connected to the hot water connection. The mixing channel can be connected or is connected to a faucet, for example, to dispense the hot water.

[0039] In a design refinement, the fresh water and hot water channels flow into the mixing channel at an included angle of no more than 60°, in particular no more than 50°, and most specifically no more than 45°, in the direction of flow of the fresh water and hot water. The hot water and fresh water can thus flow into the mixing channel at an angle of less than 60°.

[0040] Alternatively, or optionally in addition, the fresh water and hot water connections can be arranged in the flow direction of the fresh water and hot water at an angle of no more than 60°, in particular no more than 50°, and most especially no more than 45° to each other. This design has the advantage that there are no or only minimal friction and deflection losses of the fresh and hot water in the channels and / or in the fresh water and hot water connections.

[0041] In variants, a hot water dispensing section of the hot water channel can be arranged centrally within a fresh water dispensing section of the fresh water channel. The hot water and fresh water dispensing sections can, in particular, be arranged in an opening region of the mixing channel, so that the fresh and hot water can be directed together into the mixing channel. A central arrangement of the hot water dispensing section can, under certain circumstances, result in improved swirling of the hot water with the fresh water in the mixing channel.

[0042] To convey the hot and fresh water to the mixing device, in particular to the mixing unit, a pumping device can be arranged in the fresh water supply and / or in the passive hot water storage tank, alternatively or optionally additionally in the fresh water and / or hot water connection. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a pumping device can be arranged in the fresh water supply, so that the fresh water is designed as a pressurized driving stream, and the hot water is designed as a pump-free quiescent stream. Because the hot water can be conveyed to the mixing device, in particular to the mixing unit, without the need for a pump and / or by gravity, the water supply device has a comparatively compact and lightweight design due to the elimination of a pump or similar.

[0043] To ensure gravity flow of the hot water in the form of a quiescent flow, the passive hot water storage tank is preferably arranged at a different height from the mixing device, in particular the mixing unit. The hot water connection can run downwards from the hot water storage tank to the mixing unit.

[0044] In preferred embodiments, the mixing channel can have a cross-sectional constriction downstream of the fresh water channel, in particular to convey the hot water as or in the form of a quiescent flow. The cross-sectional constriction can, in particular, cause the hot water, as the quiescent flow, to experience a flow acceleration due to negative pressure through the fresh water, as the pressurized driving flow, and thus be accelerated into the mixing channel. In this way, the weight and dimensions of the water supply device can be further minimized.

[0045] The mixing unit is particularly preferably designed using the Venturi principle, for example as or based on a Venturi nozzle, with the fresh water forming the driving stream and the hot water forming the quiescent stream. In this embodiment, it is possible for the fresh water to be supplied to the mixing unit under pressure, e.g. by a pump device, and the hot water to be supplied to the mixing unit under pressure, e.g. by gravity, or at a lower pressure than the fresh water. The cross-sectional constriction or the Venturi effect or Venturi-like effects ensure that the hot water is sucked into the mixing channel despite the lower pressure. In particular, penetration of fresh water into the hot water connection or even into the hot water tank is prevented.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the mixing device comprises at least one valve device for controlling the output of fresh and / or hot water into the mixing unit. Particularly preferably, the at least one valve device is arranged in the fresh water and / or hot water connection. In particular, the at least one valve device can be switchable between an open and a closed position, wherein in the open position the at least one valve device allows the flow of fresh or hot water in the fresh water or hot water connection and blocks it in the closed position. For example, the at least one valve device can be designed as a solenoid valve. By controlling the output of fresh and / or hot water, a mixing ratio of the fresh and / or hot water in the mixing channel can be specified, wherein the mixing ratio can determine the temperature of the hot water.Thus, the valve device makes it possible to control the water temperature of the hot water to be dispensed.

[0047] For example, the mixing device can be designed to dispense hot water at exactly one temperature level by means of the at least one valve device. Thus, hot water at exactly one hot water temperature level can be made available to a person. For this purpose, one valve device is preferably arranged in the fresh water connection and one valve device is arranged in the hot water connection. To dispense hot water at exactly one temperature level, the valve devices can be switched to the open position such that both fresh and hot water are combined in the mixing unit, in particular in the mixing channel, and dispensed as hot water at exactly one temperature level. The water temperature of the hot water to be dispensed can be controlled in this way.

[0048] Optionally, in addition to the dispensing of hot water at exactly one temperature level, fresh water can be dispensed, so that the person has the choice between fresh water and hot water at exactly one hot water temperature level. For this purpose, the person can have a choice of a hot water switch and a fresh water switch. When the fresh water switch is operated, the valve device, preferably arranged in the fresh water connection, can be switched to the open position and thus fresh water can be made available. When the hot water switch is operated, the valve devices, preferably arranged in the fresh water and hot water connection, can be switched to the open position so that, as described above, hot water can be dispensed at exactly one temperature level.

[0049] The perception of hot water depends on the individual. For example, a hot water temperature of 30°C may be comfortable for one person, but too cold for another. Against this background, it is preferably provided that the mixing device can be designed to dispense hot water at different temperature levels by means of the at least one valve device. This makes it possible for one person to select several temperature levels for the hot water to be dispensed, e.g. at a tap. Particularly preferably, a valve device is arranged in the fresh water connection and a valve device is arranged in the hot water connection to control the temperature levels. In one possible embodiment, the valve device(s) can have an actuator. Using an actuator, in particular, a continuous or at least almost continuous adjustment of the flow rate of the fresh or hot water can be achieved.of the hot water in the fresh water or hot water connection.

[0050] In one possible alternative design, the valve device in the hot water connection can be operated and designed in a timed manner. The term "timed operation" refers in particular to a periodic switching sequence of the opening and closing positions of the valve device in the hot water connection. If the dispensing of hot water at a temperature level selected by a person is requested, the valve device in the fresh water connection can preferably switch to the open position, with the valve device in the hot water connection switching between the open and closed positions in a timed manner. The periodic switching sequence results in a timed dispensing of hot water, with the switching time of the opening and closing positions determining the mixing ratio of the fresh and hot water in the mixing unit.

[0051] For example, the timing of the valve device in the hot water connection is defined for each temperature level of the hot water to be dispensed. Alternatively, the timing or the control of the actuator can be dependent on current measured temperature data of the hot, fresh and / or warm water. For this purpose, a temperature sensor can be arranged in the fresh water connection, the hot water connection and / or in the passive hot water tank and / or in the outlet opening of the mixing device, which output the current temperature measurement data. The current temperature measurement data of the fresh and hot water enable variably coordinated timing or the actuator, so that the temperature level of the hot water can be precisely output according to a person's requirements.The current temperature measurement data of the hot water enable the timing or the actuator to be regulated if there is a deviation between the temperature level of the hot water supplied and the requirement.

[0052] Preferably, the dispensing of hot water, for example at the tap, is time-controlled in that the at least one valve device is opened for a predetermined period of time, for example eight seconds, so that the hot water is dispensed, and is closed again after the expiry of the period of time so that the hot water dispensing is blocked.

[0053] To determine or limit the hot water and / or fresh water volume flow, a diameter-reducing orifice plate can be arranged in the hot water and / or fresh water connection, which narrows a passage cross-section of the hot water and / or fresh water connection. The diameter-reducing orifice plate is preferably annular, with the flow rate of the hot water and / or fresh water per unit of time being determined by means of an inner diameter of the annular diameter-reducing orifice plate. The diameter-reducing orifice plate is preferably arranged in the pipe of the hot water and / or fresh water connection.

[0054] Another object of the invention relates to a method for supplying a mixing device of a water supply device with hot water according to the preceding description. The mixing device is connected to the passive hot water tank of the water supply device, wherein the passive hot water tank is filled to supply the mixing device with hot water. If the passive hot water tank is empty, the empty passive hot water tank can be exchanged for a filled hot water tank to refill the water supply device, and / or the hot water tank can be refilled with hot water.

[0055] Replacing the hot water tank, in particular, allows for easy refilling of the passive hot water tank. Furthermore, the hot water tank replacement option ensures a high standard of hygiene, as the hot water tanks can be professionally cleaned and dried outside the mobile home.

[0056] Further features, advantages, and effects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention. These show: Fig. 1 shows a two-dimensional representation of the basic structure of a water supply device as an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 a passive hot water storage tank of the water supply device from the Fig. 1; Fig. 3 a first embodiment of a mixing unit of a mixing device of the water supply device from the Fig. 1; Fig. 4 an exemplary timing of two valve devices of the mixing device from the Fig. 1.

[0057] Corresponding or identical parts are provided with the same reference numerals in the figures.

[0058] Fig. Figure 1 shows a two-dimensional representation of a water supply device 1 as an exemplary embodiment of the invention. The water supply device 1 serves to dispense hot water in a mobile device, for example, at a sink in an aircraft lavatory. The hot water is tempered water with a temperature of at least 30°C and / or at most 40°C.

[0059] The water supply device 1 has a mixing device 2, which is designed to dispense warm water, for example, from a faucet of the washbasin in the aircraft lavatory. The mixing device 2 comprises a fresh water connection 3 and a hot water connection 4, wherein the fresh water and hot water connections 3, 4 are designed as rigid or flexible pipes. The fresh water connection 3 can be connected to a fresh water supply, wherein the fresh water supply is, for example, a fresh water tank arranged stationary in the aircraft. The fresh water supply serves to supply the mixing device 2 with fresh water. The fresh water is non-tempered water with a temperature of at most 25°C. The hot water connection 4 is connected to a passive hot water storage tank 5. The passive hot water storage tank 5 serves to supply the mixing device 2 with hot water.The hot water has a temperature of at least 60°C, preferably at least 95°C.

[0060] In particular, the passive hot water storage tank 5 has an insulating means, e.g., an insulating skin, which insulates the hot water in the passive hot water storage tank 5. The passive hot water storage tank 5 is preferably designed such that, when storing hot water at a temperature of 95°C over a time interval of nine hours, a temperature difference of 5°C per hour is not exceeded on average.

[0061] Furthermore, the mixing device 2 comprises a mixing unit 12, wherein the mixing unit 12 is connected to the fresh water and hot water connections 3, 4. The fresh and hot water are fed via the fresh water and hot water connections 3, 4 to the mixing unit 12 and combined there, so that the fresh and hot water are mixed in the mixing unit 12 to form the hot water. The hot water is dispensed from the mixing unit 12, for example, to the faucet of the washbasin. The design of the mixing unit 12 is described in Fig. 3 is explained in more detail.

[0062] As in Fig. 2, the passive hot water tank 5 is designed as a cuboid-shaped container in which the hot water can be arranged or is arranged. The passive hot water tank 5 has a filling opening 6, wherein the filling opening 6 can be closed by means of an outer cover 7. The outer cover 7 is pivotally arranged on the passive hot water tank 5 via a hinge and can be locked by means of a quick-release fastener 8. A water chamber of the passive hot water tank 5 and the filling opening 6 have the same cross-section, thus enabling the maximum possible access opening for filling, emptying, and cleaning the passive hot water tank 5. The water chamber has a constant cross-section in its vertical extent.

[0063] A removable intermediate cover 9 is arranged in the filling opening 6. The outer cover 7 runs, at least in sections, parallel to the intermediate cover 9 when closed. The intermediate cover 9 completely and airtightly closes off the free opening cross-section of the water chamber of the passive hot water tank 5. For example, the intermediate cover 9 is clipped, inserted, placed on top, or similarly into the filling opening 6. A water-impermeable and air-permeable membrane 23 is arranged in the intermediate cover 9. The intermediate cover 9 is designed as a water- and air-impermeable seal of the passive hot water tank 5. The membrane 23 allows air to enter the water chamber of the passive hot water tank 5. Thus, when the hot water level in the passive hot water tank 5 decreases, pressure equalization is implemented.In particular, this achieves the result that when the water chamber is completely or almost completely filled with hot water, with a high water pressure and a low air volume, the volume flow is slowed down, and when the water chamber is only slightly filled, with a low water pressure and a high air volume, the volume flow is accelerated, so that a constant volume outlet flow of the hot water from the outlet opening 10 is achieved.

[0064] Furthermore, the passive hot water tank 5 comprises an outlet opening 10 for the discharge of the hot water, wherein the outlet opening 10 is arranged in a bottom wall of the hot water tank 5.

[0065] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the outlet opening 10 is connected to a quick-coupling device 11 via a connecting pipe. The passive hot water storage tank 5 is detachably connected to the hot water connection 4 by means of the quick-coupling device 11. The quick-coupling device 11 is designed, for example, as a plug-in connection. The quick-coupling device 11 as a plug-in connection enables the passive hot water storage tank 5 to be connected and disconnected from the hot water connection 4 quickly and easily without the need for tools.

[0066] A check valve is arranged in the quick-coupling device 11, whereby the passive hot water tank 5 can be switched between a blocking state and a flow state by means of the check valve. In the blocking state, the output of hot water is blocked and in the flow state it is released. The check valve is designed, for example, as a ball valve. The passive hot water tank 5 is thus designed to be self-locking, so that unwanted output of hot water is prevented when it is disconnected from the hot water connection 4. Alternatively or optionally additionally, a check valve is arranged in the hot water connection 4 in order to achieve no or only minimal escape of hot water from the hot water connection 4 when the quick-coupling device 11 is disconnected.

[0067] The passive hot water tank 5 has, for example, a maximum capacity of eight liters and / or an empty weight of no more than 2.5 kg, in particular 1.65 kg, and / or 4 liters. This capacity allows for a sufficient water supply for passengers, at least on short-haul flights. On the other hand, the passive hot water tank 5 achieves a low overall weight and a compact design. Transporting the passive hot water tank 5, which is necessary, for example, for refilling or cleaning, is thus possible for one person without great effort.

[0068] Fig. Figure 3 shows the mixing unit 12 with a fresh water channel, a hot water channel, and a mixing channel 13, 14, 15. The fresh water channel 13 is connected to the fresh water connection 3, and the hot water channel 14 is connected to the hot water connection 4. The fresh and hot water fed into the fresh water and hot water channels 13, 14 are mixed in the mixing channel 15. The fresh water and hot water channels 13, 14 are arranged at an angle of 45° to each other, so that there are few friction and deflection losses of the fresh and hot water in the channels.

[0069] To transport the fresh and hot water into the mixing unit 12, it can be provided, for example, that the fresh and hot water are pumped into the fresh and hot water channels 13, 14 by means of a pumping device. The pumping device is arranged, for example, in the fresh water and / or hot water connection 3, 4. Alternatively, for the transport of the fresh and hot water, it is possible for only the fresh water to be pumped into the fresh water channel 13 by means of the pumping device. The hot water, however, can be transported without a pump, for example, by gravity. For this purpose, the passive hot water storage tank 5 is arranged at a height offset from the mixing unit 12, as shown in Fig. 1 shown.

[0070] The fresh water and hot water connections 3, 4 can be screwed or plugged into the fresh water and hot water channels 13, 14, for example. In the embodiment shown in the Fig. 3, however, a valve device 16 is each interposed between the fresh and hot water connections 3, 4 and the fresh and hot water channels 13, 14. The valve devices 16 are designed to control the output of the fresh and hot water to the mixing unit 12 and thus the temperature of the hot water. As an alternative embodiment, it can be provided that a valve device 16 is interposed only between one of the water connections 3, 4 and the channels 13, 14. It is also possible for at least or exactly one valve device 16 to be arranged in the fresh and / or hot water connection 3, 4 to control the water flow in the fresh and / or hot water connection 3, 4. The valve devices 16 can be switched between a closed and an open position. In the closed position, the flow of fresh or hot water is blocked and in the open position it is released.By controlling the flow rate, the output of the volume flow of fresh or hot water into the mixing unit 12 is regulated, whereby the resulting mixing ratio in the mixing channel 15 determines the temperature of the hot water. The control of the water temperature of the hot water is described in . Fig. 4. The valve devices 16 are designed, for example, as solenoid valves.

[0071] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, a diameter restriction orifice 24 is arranged in the fresh water and hot water connection 3, 4 to determine the fresh water and hot water volume flow. The diameter restriction orifice 24 is annular, with the inner diameter of the annular diameter restriction orifice 24 determining the flow rate per unit time of the fresh water and hot water.

[0072] As from Fig. As can be clearly seen in Figure 1, the passive hot water tank 5 can be arranged, for example, on a wall 17, whereby the arrangement can be above the sink and / or behind a wall mirror. The hot water connection 4 runs downwards, in particular vertically in the direction of the mixing unit 12. Of course, the passive hot water tank 5 can also be arranged on a floor, a ceiling, or another component, such as a piece of furniture in the aircraft lavatory.

[0073] The passive hot water tank 5 is positioned on the wall 17, for example, by means of guide rails 18, wherein the guide rails 18 are arranged extending perpendicularly from the wall 17. The passive hot water tank 5 has complementary guide carriages 19 that engage with the guide rails 18. This allows for precise and tool-free installation and removal of the passive hot water tank 5 on or from the wall 17.

[0074] In order to arrange the passive hot water tank 5 on the wall 17 in a movement-resistant and thus captive manner, the passive hot water tank 5 is held on the wall 17, for example, by means of a releasable locking mechanism 20. The releasable locking mechanism 20 comprises two locking levers 21, which are fastened to the wall 17. The locking levers 21 are each in a locking position, as shown in Fig. 1, and can be moved into a release position. In the locking position, the respective locking lever 21 overlaps a web 22 arranged on the hot water tank 5, so that the web 22 is clamped between the locking lever 21 and the wall 17. In this way, the passive hot water tank 5 is immovably fixed in the guide direction of the guide rails 18. In the release position, the respective locking lever 21 is retracted, so that the web 22 and thus the passive hot water tank 5 are released for removal. The locking and release position of the locking lever 21 is displayed to a person by means of a display device 25, so that the person is shown whether removal of the passive hot water tank 5 from the wall 17 is possible or not. For example, the indicator device 25 is switched to “red” when the locking lever 21 is in the locking position and to “green” when the locking lever 21 is in the release position.These color indicators immediately signal to the person whether it is possible to remove the passive hot water tank 5.

[0075] Fig. Figure 4 shows, as an exemplary embodiment, the timing of the two valve devices 16 of the mixing device 2. The upper horizontal axis of the diagram shows the timing of a hot water valve device, namely the valve device 16, which is connected between the hot water connection 4 and the hot water channel 14. The lower horizontal axis of the diagram shows the timing of a fresh water valve device, namely the valve device 16, which is connected between the fresh water connection 3 and the fresh water channel 13. At the upper limit value y1, the respective valve device 16 is switched to the open position, and at the lower limit value y0, it is switched to the closed position.

[0076] When hot water is requested, the fresh water valve switches to the open position, allowing fresh water to flow into the mixing unit 12. The hot water valve, on the other hand, switches between the closed and open positions in a timed manner, with the switching time depending on the requested hot water temperature. The timing results in a timed output of hot water into the mixing unit 12. Since the temperature of the hot water increases as the proportion of hot water to fresh water increases, the switching time must be extended as the temperature of the hot water increases. The longer the switching time in the open position, the shorter the switching time in the closed position of the hot water valve. This determines the mixing ratio of the fresh water to hot water in the mixing unit 12. List of reference symbols 1 water supply device 2 mixing device 3 Fresh water connection 4 hot water connection 5 Passive hot water storage / hot water tank 6 Filling opening 7 Outer cover 8 quick release 9 Intermediate cover 10 Exit opening 11 Quick coupling device 12 Mixing unit 13 Freshwater canal 14 Hot water channel 15 Mixing channel 16 Valve device 17 Wall 18 Guide rail 19 guide carriages 20 Removable locking mechanism 21 Locking lever 22 jetty 23 Membran 24 Diameter restriction orifice 25 Display device

Claims

[1] Water supply device (1) for a room of a mobile, with a mixing device (2), wherein the mixing device (2) is designed to dispense hot water, wherein the mixing device (2) comprises a fresh water and a hot water connection (3, 4), wherein the fresh water connection (3) is connectable to a fresh water supply, and with a hot water tank (5), wherein the hot water connection (4) is connected to the hot water tank (5), wherein the hot water tank (5) is designed as a passive hot water storage tank (5). [2] Water supply device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the passive hot water storage tank (5) is designed in such a way that when storing hot water at a temperature of 95°C in a time interval of nine hours, an average temperature difference of 5°C per hour is not exceeded. [3] Water supply device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the passive hot water tank (5) can be dismantled without tools. [4] Water supply device (1) according to claim 3, characterized by a locking mechanism (20), wherein the passive hot water tank (5) is or can be held captively on a wall (17) and / or on a floor by means of the locking mechanism (20). [5] Water supply device (1) according to claim 3, characterized by that the passive hot water storage tank (5) has a quick-coupling device (11), wherein the passive hot water storage tank (5) is detachably connected to the hot water connection (4) via the quick-coupling device (11) in a tool-free manner. [6] Water supply device (1) according to claim 5, characterized by that the quick coupling device (11) has a check valve on both sides. [7] Water supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that for an air inlet into the passive hot water tank (5), the passive hot water tank (5) has a water-impermeable and air-permeable membrane (23). [8] Water supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the passive hot water storage tank (5) has a capacity of not more than eight litres, in particular not more than six litres, especially not more than four litres. [9] Water supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the mixing device (2) comprises a mixing unit (12) with a fresh water channel, a hot water channel and a mixing channel (13, 14, 15), wherein for the purpose of dispensing the hot water, the mixing channel (15) is designed to mix the fresh water and hot water from the fresh water and hot water channels (13, 14). [10] Water supply device (1) according to claim 9, characterized by that the fresh water and hot water channels (13, 14) open into the mixing channel (15) in the flow direction of the fresh water and hot water at an included angle of at most 60°, in particular of at most 50°, especially of at most 45°. [11] Water supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the hot water is transported from the passive hot water storage tank (5) to the mixing device (2) without a pump and / or by gravity. [12] Water supply device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that for pump-free transport of the hot water, the passive hot water storage tank (5) is arranged at a height offset from the mixing device (2). [13] Water supply device (1) according to claims 9 to 12, characterized bythat the mixing device (2) comprises at least one valve device (16) for controlling the output of the fresh and / or hot water into the mixing unit (12). [14] Water supply device (1) according to claim 13, characterized by that the at least one valve device (16) is arranged in the hot water connection (4) and is designed to be clocked, wherein by means of the clocking the mixing device (2) is designed to dispense hot water at different temperature levels. [15] Method for supplying the mixing device (2) of the water supply device (1) with hot water according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the mixing device (2) is connected to a passive hot water storage tank (5) of the water supply device (1), wherein the passive hot water storage tank (5) is filled with hot water to supply the mixing device (2), characterized bythat in order to fill the water supply device (1) an emptied passive hot water tank (5) is exchanged for a filled hot water tank (5).

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