ACTIVATION UNIT

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to an actuating unit for actuating a flush valve in a cistern according to the preamble of claim 1. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] A variety of actuating units or actuator plates for flushing are known from the prior art. Such actuating units typically comprise two actuating buttons. One of the actuating buttons is used to trigger a full flush, and the other is used to trigger a partial flush. The actuating buttons typically actuate push rods, which then mechanically actuate a flush valve in a cistern, thus triggering the flush.

[0003] An actuating unit is known from EP 2 913 450. In this unit, two actuating buttons are connected to a button frame. The actuating buttons and the button frame are then covered by a cover. Partial areas of the actuating buttons are accessible through a window in the cover and can be actuated through the window.

[0004] The EP 2 913 450 has the disadvantage that the key frame can warp during assembly. Due to the direct mounting of the two actuation keys on the key frame, such warping can have negative consequences. For example, it can affect the alignment of the two keys relative to each other or to the faceplate, or it can increase the actuation force required.

[0005] Further actuating units were revealed in the publications EP 2 388 379, EP 0 555 922, EP2 476 808 and EP 3 705 649. PRESENTATION OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Based on this prior art, the present invention aims to provide an actuating unit that overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art. In particular, it aims to provide an actuating unit that can be mounted in many different installation situations while maintaining reliable functionality.

[0007] This problem is solved by the subject matter of claim 1. Accordingly, an actuating unit for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises a support element with at least one fastening element for attaching the support element to the cistern or to another mounting structure and with a bearing receptacle, a functional unit insertable into the bearing receptacle with a bearing element and with at least one actuating lever mounted on the bearing element for actuating a push rod acting on the flush valve, and at least one actuating plate. The at least one actuating plate is pivotably mounted on the functional unit about a pivot axis via at least one pivot bearing point. The at least one actuating plate is pivotable from an initial position to a flushing position and from the flushing position back to the initial position.The at least one actuating plate acts with its back against the at least one actuating lever and pivots it towards the support element during the movement from the starting position to the flushing position, such that the said push rod can be actuated.

[0008] According to the described combination of features, the functions "connecting the actuating unit to a cistern or wall-mounted structure" and "moving the elements intended for flushing, such as the actuator plate and lever" are mechanically decoupled from each other. The support element is provided for mounting the actuating unit, and the functional unit is provided for moving the elements intended for flushing. This decoupling has the advantage that the support element can be designed for mounting on a cistern or wall-mounted structure and for mounting the actuating unit as a whole, and that the actuating unit can be designed for moving the elements intended for flushing, i.e., for triggering the flushing function.

[0009] In other words, the arrangement of the functional unit, on which the at least one actuating lever and the at least one actuating plate are mounted, and the placement of the functional unit in the bearing receptacle has the advantage that the functional unit can be optimally designed for the execution of the functions.

[0010] Furthermore, the functional unit offers the advantage of an actuator plate bearing that is independent of the fastening of the support element.

[0011] The support element is preferably designed to be slightly elastic so that it can compensate for tolerances that occur during assembly. In contrast, the functional unit is designed to be as rigid as possible so that good support for the moving parts is provided and thus the flushing mechanism can be reliably triggered.

[0012] The functional unit is designed separately from the support element and can be mechanically connected to the support element.

[0013] Preferably, the bearing element of the functional unit has a greater stiffness, in particular a greater bending stiffness and / or a greater torsional stiffness, than the support element.

[0014] This means that the support element is more easily deformable and therefore more easily adapted to the actual assembly situation. The functional unit, however, is less deformable, which benefits the movement and bearing of the actuating levers and actuator plates.

[0015] Preferably, the support element and the bearing element each have a bottom wall. Reinforcing ribs extend from the bottom wall. The reinforcing ribs are designed such that the bearing element of the functional unit has greater stiffness, in particular greater bending stiffness and / or greater torsional stiffness, than the support element.

[0016] The reinforcing ribs essentially increase the stiffness of the floor wall.

[0017] Preferably, the bearing element, when connected to the bearing receptacle, lies essentially entirely within the bearing receptacle and does not protrude from it. This allows for a particularly compact structure.

[0018] Preferably, the bearing receptacle in the support element is bounded by a bottom wall and side walls projecting from the bottom wall. Preferably, the bearing receptacle is essentially cuboid in shape, with the depth of the bearing receptacle being many times smaller than its width and length.

[0019] Preferably, the base wall has openings through which the push rods protrude. The push rods extend from the rear through the bearing receptacle and protrude forward out of the bearing receptacle.

[0020] Preferably, the functional unit and the support element are mechanically locked together via locking elements. These locking elements are provided by bearing pins and bearing openings.

[0021] In one variant, the support element has at least two opposing bearing openings, and the functional unit has a fixed bearing pin and a spring-loaded bearing pin, wherein the bearing pins engage in the bearing openings to securely mount the functional unit in the bearing receptacle.

[0022] In another variant, the functional unit has at least two opposing bearing openings and the support element has a fixed bearing pin and a spring-loaded bearing pin, wherein the bearing pins engage in the bearing openings to securely mount the functional unit in the bearing receptacle.

[0023] The bearing openings or bearing pins are positioned opposite each other in such a way that the functional unit is located between the bearing openings or bearing pins on the support element.

[0024] Preferably, a total of four locking elements are present.

[0025] Preferably, the opposing bearing openings are positioned such that their central axes running through the bearing openings are parallel to each other, in particular collinear to each other.

[0026] Preferably, the spring-loaded bearing pin has an actuating surface on which the installer can apply a tool during maintenance work.

[0027] Preferably, the bearing element has at least one projecting rib which, when connected to the support element, engages in a corresponding recess on the support element. The rib / recess pairing can be arranged in addition to or as an alternative to the locking elements described above.

[0028] Preferably, the at least one fastening element is located in lateral edge areas of the bearing receptacle and the bearing element of the functional unit has at least one relief cut, such that when the bearing element is inserted, the at least one fastening element remains accessible and operable.

[0029] This allows the fastening element to be actuated even with the functional unit installed. For example, it can be tightened, loosened, or otherwise operated.

[0030] Preferably, the fastening elements are designed as sliding elements. The sliding elements are slidably mounted in sliding receptacles on the support element. The sliding elements are further designed to engage with a corresponding receptacle on a cistern.

[0031] Furthermore, a locking element is slidably mounted on the bearing element of the functional unit. The support element has a locking receptacle. The locking element can be moved from a release position, in which the locking element is not engaged with the locking receptacle, to a locking position, in which the locking element is firmly engaged with the locking receptacle. The firm engagement between the locking element and the locking receptacle is such that a separation movement between the bearing element and the support element is prevented. In the release position, the bearing element can be separated from the support element.

[0032] Preferably, the locking element has a slot-like recess, and the locking mechanism is provided by a section of the wall. In the locked position, the wall section projects into the slot-like recess.

[0033] Preferably, the locking element, when viewed from the installed position of the actuating unit, is covered by at least one actuating plate and is therefore not visible. In other words, a user looking at the front of the actuating plate in the direction of the surface normal cannot see the locking element.

[0034] Preferably, the locking element is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points when viewed from the bearing receptacle. In its installed position, the locking element is therefore located below the pivot bearing points and is thus accessible from below.

[0035] Preferably, the locking element is arranged at a distance from the rear of the actuating plate, particularly when the latter is in its starting position, whereby the distance creates a gap through which the locking element can be grasped.

[0036] Preferably, the locking element is arranged on an outer edge of the bearing element.

[0037] Preferably, the locking element has a locking tab by which the locking element engages in a locking recess on the support element in the locked position and / or in the release position. In other variants, the support element has a locking tab by which the locking element engages in a locking recess on the locking element in the locked position and / or in the release position.

[0038] Preferably, the locking element is moved from the release position to the locking position along a longitudinal movement. The locking element is therefore mounted on the bearing element with a longitudinal guide.

[0039] Preferably, the locking element and the locking receptacle are engaged with each other in the locking position in such a way that movement of the bearing element against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin is prevented.

[0040] Preferably, each actuating plate has two pivot bearing points arranged at a distance from each other. Preferably, the pivot bearing points for an actuating plate are arranged as far apart from each other as possible.

[0041] Preferably, the pivot bearing location is provided by a pivot bearing axis and a pivot bearing receptacle, wherein the pivot bearing axis is pivotably mounted in the pivot bearing receptacle.

[0042] Preferably, the swivel bearing receptacle has an opening designed in such a way that the swivel bearing axis can be inserted into the swivel bearing receptacle via this opening.

[0043] Preferably, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the bearing element and the pivot bearing receptacle on the actuating plate. Alternatively, the pivot bearing axis is arranged on the actuating plate and the pivot bearing receptacle on the bearing element.

[0044] Preferably, the at least one pivot bearing point is arranged at an upper edge of the bearing element.

[0045] Preferably, the actuating plate extends upwards and downwards with respect to the pivot axis when viewed in its installed position. The upward extension is significantly smaller than the downward extension.

[0046] Preferably, the pivot axis is located inside the bearing housing when the functional unit is inserted into the bearing housing.

[0047] Preferably, the front side of the at least one actuating plate has an extension such that the functional unit and the support element are covered when looking at the actuating plate in the direction of the surface normal of the actuating plate.

[0048] In other words, at least one actuator plate covers the functional unit and the support element from the front. Therefore, no cover element is required.

[0049] Preferably, the at least one actuating plate has a support element and a decorative element, wherein the decorative element is firmly attached to the support element and wherein, when viewed in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element, the decorative element completely covers the support element.

[0050] Preferably, the decorative element is bonded to the support element. Preferably, the decorative element is made of glass, metal, plastic, or a mixture of materials, such as a polymer-bonded mineral material. Preferably, the support element is made of plastic. Preferably, the support element includes the elements provided for the pivot bearing.

[0051] Preferably, the decorative element has an extension such that the functional unit and the support element are covered when looking towards the surface normal of the decorative element on the actuating plate.

[0052] Preferably, the front surface of the actuator plate or any decorative element is curved around an axis of curvature, the axis of curvature preferably running parallel to the pivot axis. Alternatively, the front surface of the actuator plate or any decorative element can be a flat surface.

[0053] Preferably, the support element defines a plane with an edge. Preferably, the pivot axis runs parallel to said plane. In the initial position, the front of the actuating plate is positioned such that the distance between the front and the plane, measured along the plane normal, increases with increasing distance from the pivot axis.

[0054] In its installed position, plane E is essentially parallel to the surface of a partition wall. This means that the front face is inclined at an angle to the surface of the partition wall. The plane is preferably a vertical plane.

[0055] The advantage of this configuration is that the angled arrangement provides the user with good visual cues from the actuator plate. Furthermore, the actuator plate's travel distance can be optimized for operating the levers. For example, a greater distance allows for a longer travel distance than a shorter distance.

[0056] Preferably, the maximum distance between the front surface and the plane is in the range of 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters.

[0057] Preferably, the pivot axis is located at a distance from the upper edge of the actuating plate, wherein the distance is at most one-fifth, and in particular at most one-eighth or one-tenth, of the distance between the upper and lower edges of the actuating plate. In other words, the pivot axis is significantly closer to the upper edge than to the lower edge. The upper and lower edges are preferably parallel to each other and parallel to the pivot axis.

[0058] In the first variant, the distance increases continuously with increasing distance from the pivot axis. In the second variant, the distance increases variably with increasing distance from the pivot axis. In other words, the distance either increases constantly with increasing distance or the distance increases variably with increasing distance.

[0059] Preferably, the distance decreases when the actuating plate is activated.

[0060] Preferably, the angle between the front of the actuating plate and the plane in the initial position is between 4° and 20°, in particular between 5° and 12°.

[0061] Preferably, when viewed in the installed position, the pivot axis runs horizontally and the distance is at its maximum at the end of the actuating plate opposite the pivot axis. That is, the distance increases with increasing distance from the pivot axis.

[0062] The pivot axis, when viewed from the installed position, lies above the maximum distance. In other words, the actuating plate extends diagonally downwards from the pivot axis.

[0063] Preferably, a contact point between the actuating lever and the actuating plate is located in front of said plane in the initial position or at the beginning of the actuation, and the pivot axis is located behind said plane.

[0064] Preferably, during actuation, the actuating plate is in contact with the actuating lever via several contact points, the contact points being located below a horizontal plane which runs parallel to the pivot axis, perpendicular to the plane and centrally through the actuating plate.

[0065] Preferably, the actuating plate has an actuating plate-side stop with a corresponding stop surface, and the functional unit has a functional unit-side stop with a corresponding stop surface, wherein the two aforementioned stops or stop surfaces abut each other when the actuating plate is in the starting position.

[0066] When the at least one actuating plate is actuated, the two aforementioned stop surfaces are moved away from each other. When the actuating plate is in its starting position, the two aforementioned stop surfaces lie between the functional unit and the at least one actuating plate.

[0067] The position of the stop surfaces in the starting position between the functional unit and the at least one actuating plate offers the advantage that the thickness of the actuating unit can be compact.

[0068] The two stop surfaces are particularly preferably located in the initial position between the bearing element of the functional unit and the at least one actuating plate.

[0069] The stop preferably acts as a stop against movement from the starting position, opposing movement into the actuated position. In other words, the stop holds the actuating plate in its starting position.

[0070] When the actuator plate moves from its starting position to the flushing position, the two stops move away from each other, as mentioned. When the actuator plate moves from the flushing position back to its starting position, the two stops move towards each other.

[0071] Preferably, the actuating unit further comprises at least one spring element. The at least one spring element is arranged between the back of the actuating plate and the bearing element and pushes the actuating plate away from the bearing element in such a way that the two stop surfaces can be brought into contact with each other.

[0072] Preferably, the stop on the functional unit side is adjustable relative to the bearing element. This adjustability allows the position of the actuator plate to be set in its initial position. Preferably, the stop on the actuator plate side is designed as a fixed or non-adjustable stop.

[0073] Preferably, the functional unit-side stop is adjustable in a stop guide in the bearing element, and a stop adjusting screw is furthermore mounted in the bearing element, such that the functional unit-side stop can be adjusted when the stop adjusting screw is actuated.

[0074] Preferably, the stop on the functional unit side is adjustable in the stop guide in a longitudinal direction. Preferably, the stop adjusting screw and the stop on the functional unit side are designed such that, after the stop adjustment has been made, the stop on the functional unit side is firmly fixed in the stop guide.

[0075] Preferably, the stop guide extends from the side of the bearing element facing the actuating plate and provides a guide for the functional unit-side stop towards the actuating plate.

[0076] Preferably, the stop adjustment screw is rotatable and axially fixed in a receptacle in the bearing element.

[0077] Preferably, the stop on the functional unit side has a threaded opening into which the thread of the stop adjusting screw engages.

[0078] Preferably, the mount has two spring sections into which the stop adjustment screw can be clipped.

[0079] Preferably, the stop adjustment screw has a screw head which is designed with a plurality of protrusions so that the screw head can be gripped well.

[0080] Preferably, the stop adjustment screw has a drive mechanism that allows it to be actuated with a tool. Preferably, the drive mechanism is designed as an internal hexagon and / or a slot. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the drive mechanism is positioned such that it is accessible from the front, i.e., from the side of the actuator plate. In this variant, the actuator plate can be moved from its initial position into an installation position, thus making the stop adjustment screw, which is located behind the actuator plate in its initial position, accessible. This allows an installer to align the actuator plate very easily. Preferably, the stop on the actuator plate side is part of a hook projecting from the back of the actuator plate.

[0081] Preferably, the hook is designed such that it is deflected relative to the functional unit-side stop during an assembly movement, wherein the hook in the deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces lie laterally to each other, such that the two stop surfaces are displaceable relative to each other, and wherein the hook in the non-deflected state is positioned such that the two stop surfaces lie to each other in such a way that the two stop surfaces can be brought into contact with each other.

[0082] For this purpose, the hook and the functional unit-side stop preferably have a chamfered surface that facilitates movement into the deflected state. The stop surfaces are located behind the chamfered surfaces.

[0083] Preferably, the bearing element has a recess, wherein the hook is moved into the recess from the starting position to the flushing position during the actuation movement of the actuating plate.

[0084] The recess is located below the stop guide when viewed in the installed position.

[0085] Preferably, two actuating plates are arranged side by side, with the actuating plates spaced apart from each other by a gap. In the installed position, the gap preferably runs substantially vertically. The two actuating plates are arranged such that they cover the support element and the functional unit, as described above.

[0086] Preferably, each of the actuating plates has a stop such that the front sides of the actuating plates can be aligned relative to each other.

[0087] Further training courses are characterized by this, that the support element has openings for the passage of push rods interacting with the flushing valve, and / or that at least one spring element is arranged on the bearing element, which applies a spring force to the actuating plate in the direction of the initial position; and / or that the bearing element of the functional unit has openings for the passage of the actuating levers.

[0088] A sanitary arrangement comprising an actuating unit as described above, a cistern with a flushing valve and a wall, wherein the actuating unit is arranged with the said plane parallel to the visible side of the wall.

[0089] Further embodiments are specified in the dependent claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0090] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below with reference to the drawings, which serve only for illustration and are not to be interpreted restrictively. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a partially exploded actuating unit according to a preferred embodiment from above; Fig. 2 the view of Figure 1 from below; Fig. 3 a perspective exploded view of the actuating unit; Fig. 4 a detailed view of the Figure 3 ; Fig. 5 a detailed view of the Figure 4 Fig. 6 a sectional view through a bearing point of the actuating unit according to the preceding figures; Fig. 7 a perspective view of the actuating unit according to one of the preceding figures with a locking element; Fig. 8 a rear view of the Figure 7 ; Fig. 9a / 9b perspective detail views of the locking element of the actuating unit according to the preceding Figure 7 and 8Fig. 10 shows a sectional view through a pivot bearing point of the actuating unit according to the preceding figures in the initial position; Fig. 11 shows the view according to Figure 10 in the flushing position; and Fig. 12 a rear view and a detail view of the actuating unit according to one of the preceding figures with a stop. DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EXECUTION FORMS

[0091] With reference to the Figures 1 to 12 A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be explained. Figures 1 to 12 show different views of an actuating unit according to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] The actuating unit 1 for actuating a flush valve in a cistern comprises a support element 2, a functional unit 3 and at least one actuating plate 9. The figures show an embodiment with two actuating plates 9.

[0093] Support element 2, which is located in the Figures 1 to 4As is particularly evident, the support element 2 comprises at least one fastening element 3. In the illustrated embodiment, two fastening elements 3 are provided. The support element 2 can be attached to a cistern, a wall-mounted structure, or another structure using the at least one fastening element 3. Furthermore, the support element 2 has a bearing receptacle 4. The support element 2 has a base wall 12. Reinforcing ribs 15 and circumferential side walls 16 extend from the base wall 12. The bearing receptacle 4 in the support element 2 is bounded by the aforementioned base wall 12 and by side walls 16 projecting from the base wall 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the bearing receptacle 6 is essentially cuboid in shape. The depth of the bearing receptacle 6 is significantly smaller than its width and length. In the illustrated embodiment, a flange 48 extends further from the side walls 16.The flanges 48 have the advantage that gaps, such as those that may occur between the support element 2 and a wall, can be covered. The support element 2 also has two openings 49 through which push rods 8 can be passed to actuate a flushing valve.

[0094] In the Figures 1 to 5The functional unit 5 is now more clearly visible. The functional unit 5 can be inserted into the bearing receptacle 4. The functional unit 5 comprises a bearing element 6 and at least one actuating lever 7 mounted on the bearing element 6. Two actuating levers 7 are arranged here. The actuating lever 7 is moved by the actuating plate 9. This means that the at least one actuating plate 9 acts with its rear surface 11 on the at least one actuating lever 7 and pivots it towards the support element 2 when moving from the initial position to the flushing position, such that the push rod 8 can be actuated. The actuating lever 7 acts on the push rod 8.

[0095] The at least one actuating plate 9 is pivotably mounted on the functional unit 5 about a pivot axis S from a starting position to a flushing position via at least one pivot bearing 10. Two pivot bearings 10 are arranged for each actuating plate 9. The pivot bearings 10 are preferably located at the greatest possible distance from each other. The preferred design of the pivot bearings 10 is explained in detail below.

[0096] Preferably, the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 has a greater stiffness, in particular a greater bending stiffness and / or a greater torsional stiffness, than the support element 2. This allows the forces acting on the at least one actuating plate to be absorbed effectively by the functional unit 5, and the bearing element 6 can be connected to a cistern or a wall-mounted structure with minimal deformation.

[0097] The bearing element 6 and the bearing receptacle 4 are preferably designed such that the bearing element 6, in the assembled state, lies essentially completely within the bearing receptacle 4. This is shown in the Figure 4 and 7 shown accordingly.

[0098] In the Figures 4 to 5Detent elements are shown by which the functional unit 5 is mechanically detented or connected to the support element 2. The detent elements are provided by bearing pins 17 and corresponding bearing openings 18. The support element 2 has at least two opposing bearing openings 18. A total of four bearing openings 18 are present. The functional unit 5 has at least one fixed bearing pin 17 and one spring-loaded bearing pin 17. In the illustrated embodiment, two pairs of bearing pins, each with one fixed and one spring-loaded bearing pin, are arranged. To securely mount the functional unit 5 in the bearing receptacle 4, the bearing pins 17 engage in the bearing openings 18. The spring-loaded bearing pins 17 are subjected to the spring force of a compression spring 50. The spring-loaded bearing pin 17 has an actuating surface 47, which can be actuated with a tool for disassembly purposes.

[0099] For further mechanical fastening of the bearing element 6 in the bearing receptacle, the bearing element 6 has at least one rib 19 projecting from the bearing element 6. When the support element 2 is connected to the bearing element 6, the rib 19 engages in a corresponding recess 20 on the support element 2.

[0100] In the Figure 7 It is shown that the at least one fastening element 3 is located in lateral edge regions of the bearing receptacle 4. Furthermore, the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 has at least one clearance 51. Here, one clearance 51 is arranged for each fastening element 3. The at least one clearance 51 is arranged such that, when the bearing element 6 is inserted, the at least one fastening element 3 remains accessible and operable.

[0101] Based on the Figures 7 to 9a / 9bAn optional locking element is explained in more detail, which serves to lock the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5 in the bearing receptacle 4. A locking element 21 is slidably mounted on the bearing element 6 of the functional unit 5. The support element 2 has a locking receptacle 22. The locking element 21 is slidable from a release position, in which the locking element 21 is not engaged with the locking receptacle 22, to a locking position, in which the locking element 21 is firmly engaged with the locking receptacle 22. The firm engagement between locking element 21 and locking receptacle 22 is such that a separation movement between the bearing element 6 and the support element 2 is prevented. Figure 7 The locking element 21 is in the release position and in the Figure 8 The locking element 21 is in the locking position.

[0102] The locking element 21 has a slot-like space 23, and the locking receptacle 22 is provided by a wall section 24. In the locked position, the wall section 24 projects into the slot-like space 23.

[0103] The locking element 21 is seen in the installed position of the actuating unit 1, which covers at least one actuating plate 9 and is therefore not visible.

[0104] The locking element 21 is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points 10 with respect to the bearing receptacle 4. In the installed position, the locking element 21 lies below the pivot bearing points 10.

[0105] Preferably, the locking element 21 is arranged at a distance from the rear side 11 of the actuating plate 9, particularly when the latter is in its initial position. This is evident, for example, from the Figure 12or as can be seen from the side sections. The distance creates a gap through which the locking element 21 can be grasped from below.

[0106] The support element 2 has a locking tab 25, via which the support element 2 engages in a locking recess 26 on the locking element 21 in the locking position.

[0107] Preferably, the locking element 21 is moved from the release position to the locking position along a longitudinal movement. In the locking position, the locking element 21 and the locking receptacle 22 are engaged with each other in such a way that movement of the bearing element 6 against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin 17 is prevented.

[0108] Of the Figure 5The structure of the pivot bearing points 10 is shown in the figures below and in other figures below. Preferably, two pivot bearing points 10 are arranged at a distance from each other for each actuating plate 9. Each of the pivot bearing points 10 is provided by a pivot bearing axis 27 and a pivot bearing receptacle 28. The pivot bearing axis 27 is pivotably mounted in the pivot bearing receptacle 28.

[0109] The pivot bearing receptacle 28 further has an opening 29, which is designed such that the pivot bearing axis 27 can be inserted into the pivot bearing receptacle 28 via this opening 29. In the embodiment shown, the pivot bearing axis 27 has two flattened areas and two rounded areas. The flattened areas have the advantage of simplifying the assembly of the actuating plates 9 to the functional unit 5.

[0110] In the embodiment shown, the pivot bearing axis 27 is located on the bearing element 6 and the pivot bearing receptacle 28 is located on the actuating plate 9.

[0111] Preferably, the at least one pivot bearing point 10 is arranged at an upper edge of the bearing element 6.

[0112] When the functional unit 5 is inserted into the bearing receptacle 4, the pivot axis S is located inside the bearing receptacle 4. This is evident from the sectional views of the Figure 6 , 10 and 11 evident.

[0113] Based on all figures, especially the two sectional views according to the Figures 10 and 11 The preferred design of the actuator plates will be explained below.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the front face 30 of the at least one actuating plate 9 has an extension such that the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 are covered when viewed from the actuating plate 9 in the direction of the surface normal of the actuating plate 9. The at least one actuating plate 9 thus covers the functional unit 5 and the support element 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 are covered by both actuating plates 9. Therefore, no additional covers or plates are required.

[0115] In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one actuating plate 9 is designed in two parts and comprises a support element 31 and a decorative element 32. The decorative element 32 is fixedly attached to the support element 31. When viewed in the direction of the surface normal F of the decorative element 32, the decorative element 32 completely covers the support element. Here, the decorative element 32 has an extension such that the functional unit 5 and the support element 2 are covered when viewed in the direction of the surface normal of the decorative element 9 on the actuating plate 9.

[0116] In other embodiments, it is also conceivable that the at least one actuating plate is constructed in one piece.

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the front surface of the actuating plate 9 or of the optional decorative element 32 is curved about an axis of curvature. This is a convex curvature. The axis of curvature preferably runs parallel to the pivot axis S. In another embodiment, not shown here, the front surface of the actuating plate 9 or of the optional decorative element 32 is a flat surface.

[0118] The support element 2 defines a plane E with an edge 33, or in this case, with the flange 48. The pivot axis S runs parallel to said plane E. In the initial position, the front face 30 of the actuating plate 9 is positioned such that the distance A between the front face 30 and the plane E, measured along the surface normal F to the plane E, increases with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S. The distance A is therefore smaller near the pivot axis S than at greater distances from the pivot axis S. This ensures that the front face 30, when installed, is inclined at an angle to the front face of a partition wall.

[0119] In other words, the front face 30 is inclined at an angle α to the plane E. The angle α between the front face 30 of the actuating plate 9 and the plane E is between 4° and 20° in the initial position, and in particular between 5° and 12°.

[0120] Depending on the design of the front face 30, the distance A increases differently with increasing distance. For a curved front face 30, the distance A increases variably with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S. For a flat front face 30, the distance A increases continuously with increasing distance D from the pivot axis S.

[0121] When the actuating plate 9 is actuated, it pivots around the pivot axis S, thereby reducing the distance A.

[0122] In its installed position, the pivot axis S runs horizontally. The distance A is at its maximum at the end of the actuator plate 9 opposite the pivot axis S. This opposite end is preferably the lower end. This means that when viewing the actuator plate 9, the user perceives only a small gap between the wall and the actuator plate 9 above the pivot axis S. The larger gap caused by the distance A is not perceived by the user, as it is only visible from below.

[0123] When the actuating plate 9 is actuated, its rear surface 11 comes into contact with the actuating lever 7 via a contact point. The pivot axis lies behind the plane E with respect to said plane E. At the beginning of the actuation, the contact point is located in front of the plane E and moves towards the plane E as the actuation progresses. Depending on the design of the actuating lever 7, the contact point may move behind the plane E. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuating plate 9 is in contact with the actuating lever 7 via several contact points during actuation. These contact points lie below a horizontal plane H, which runs parallel to the pivot axis S, perpendicular to the plane E, and centrally through the actuating plate 9.

[0124] Based on the Figure 12The stop structure that holds the actuator plate 9(s) in their initial position will be explained in more detail below. The actuator plate 9 has an actuator-side stop 34 with a corresponding stop surface 35. Furthermore, the functional unit 5 has a functional unit-side stop 36 with a corresponding stop surface 37. The two stops 35 and 37 abut each other when the actuator plate 9 is in its initial position. If, as shown in the figures, two actuator plates 9 are present, each actuator plate 9 preferably has its own stop.

[0125] Furthermore, the actuating unit 1 includes at least one spring element 38. The spring element 38 is, for example, a leaf spring. The spring element 38 is arranged between the rear surface 11 of the actuating plate 9 and the bearing element 6. The spring element 38 pushes the actuating plate 9 away from the bearing element 6. This pushing action is such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 can be brought into contact with each other and are pressed against each other.

[0126] Preferably, the stop 36 on the functional unit side is adjustable relative to the bearing element 6 and mounted on the bearing element 6. This means that the relative position of the stop surface 37 is movable and the position of the stop surface 37 is fixed. The stop 34 on the actuator plate side is designed as a fixed stop.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the functional unit-side stop 36 is adjustably mounted in a stop guide 39 in the bearing element 6. For adjusting the stop 36, a stop adjusting screw 40 is also mounted in the bearing element 6 such that the functional unit-side stop 36 can be adjusted when the stop adjusting screw 40 is actuated.

[0128] Preferably, the stop guide 39 projects from the side of the bearing element 6 that faces the actuating plate 9. The stop guide 39 provides a guide for the functional unit-side stop 36 towards the actuating plate 9.

[0129] Preferably, the stop adjusting screw 40 is rotatably and axially fixedly mounted in a receptacle 41 in the bearing element 6. The stop adjusting screw 40 engages with a thread in a corresponding thread on the functional unit-side stop 36, whereby the functional unit-side stop 36 is displaced when the stop adjusting screw 40 is rotated.

[0130] Preferably, the actuator-side stop 34 is part of a hook 42 projecting from the rear 11 of the actuator plate 9. Here, the hook is part of the support element 31. The hook 42 is designed such that, during assembly, it is deflected relative to the functional unit-side stop 36 and essentially snaps over it. In the deflected state, the hook 42 is positioned such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 are laterally aligned with each other, allowing them to be displaced relative to one another. In the non-deflected state, the hook 42 is positioned such that the two stop surfaces 35, 37 are aligned in such a way that they can be brought into contact with each other for the stop function.

[0131] Preferably the bearing element 6 has a recess 43, wherein the hook 42 is moved from the initial position to the actuating position into the recess 43 during the actuating movement of the actuating plate. REFERENCE MARK LIST 1 Actuating unit 33 edge 2 Support element 34 actuator plate side 3 Fastener stop 4 Storage 35 Stop surface 5 Functional unit 36 functional unit side 6 bearing element stop 7 Actuating lever 37 Stop surface 8 Push rod 38 spring element 9 Actuating plate 39 Stop guide 10 pivot bearing point 40 stop adjustment screw 11 back 41 Recording 12 Floor wall (support element) 42 Hook 43 Exclusion 13 Floor wall (storage element) 44 screw head 15 Reinforcing ribs 45 Surveys 16 side walls 46 Drive structure 17 bearing journal 47 Operating area 18 Warehouse opening 48 flange 19 rib 49 Openings 20 Exclusion 50 Compression spring 21 bar element 51 Clearing 22 bolt holder 23 slit-like space A Distance 24 wall area D distance 25 Latch E level 26 Rest recess F Surface normal 27 Swivel bearing axis H Horizontal plane 28 Swivel bearing mount S Swivel axis 29 breakthrough 30 Front 31 Support element 32 Decorative element

Claims

1. Actuating unit (1) for actuating a flush valve in a cistern, comprising a support element (2) with at least one fastening element (3) for fastening the support element (2) and with a bearing receptacle (4), a functional unit (5) insertable into the bearing receptacle (4) with a bearing element (6) and with at least one actuating lever (7) mounted on the bearing element (6) for actuating a push rod (8) acting on the flush valve (8), and at least one actuating plate (9), wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) is mounted on the functional unit (5) via at least one pivot bearing point (10) so that it can pivot about a pivot axis (S) from an initial position into a flush position, and wherein the at least one actuating plate (9) acts with its rear side (11) on the at least one actuating lever (7) and pivots it in the direction of the support element (2) during movement from the initial position to the flush position, such that the push rod (8) can be actuated, characterized in that a locking element (21) is mounted on the bearing element (6) of the functional unit (5) in a displaceable manner and that the support element (2) comprises a locking receptacle (22), wherein the locking element (21) can be moved from a release position, in which the locking element (21) is not engaged with the latch receptacle (22), into a locking position in which the latch element (21) is firmly engaged with the latch receptacle (22), the firm engagement between the latch element (21) and the latch receptacle (22) being such that a separating movement between the bearing element (6) and support element (2) is prevented.

2. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking element (21) comprises a slot-like space (23) and the locking receptacle (22) is provided by a wall area (24), wherein in the locking position the wall area (24) protrudes into the slot-like space (23).

3. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, when viewed in the installed position of the actuating unit (1), the locking element (21) is covered by the at least one actuating plate (9) and is therefore not visible.

4. Actuating unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the locking element (21) is arranged opposite the pivot bearing points (10) as seen in relation to the bearing receptacle (4).

5. Actuating unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the locking element (21) is arranged at a distance from the rear side (11) of the actuating plate (9), in particular when the latter is in its initial position, wherein the distance creates an intermediate space through which the locking element (21) can be gripped.

6. Actuating unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the locking element (21) comprises a latching tab (25) via which the locking element (21) engages in a latching recess (26) on the support element (2) in the locking position and / or in the release position; and / or that the support element (2) comprises a locking tab (25) via which the locking element (21) engages in a locking recess (26) on the locking element (21) in the locking position and / or in the release position.

7. Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the locking element (21) is moved from the release position to the locking position along a longitudinal movement.

8. Actuating unit (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the functional unit (5) and the support element (2) are mechanically locked together via latching elements, wherein the latching elements are provided by bearing pins (17) and bearing openings (18), wherein the support element (2) comprises at least two bearing openings (18) located opposite each other, and that the functional unit (5) comprises a fixed bearing pin (17) and a spring-loaded bearing pin (17), wherein the bearing pins (17) engage in the bearing openings (18) to firmly support the functional unit (5) in the bearing receptacle (4); or wherein the functional unit (5) comprises at least two bearing openings (18) located opposite each other and that the support element (2) comprises a fixed bearing pin (17) and a spring-loaded bearing pin (17), wherein, for the fixed mounting of the functional unit (5) in the bearing receptacle (4), the bearing pins engage in the bearing openings (18).

9. Actuating unit (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the locking element (21) and the locking receptacle (22) engage with each other in the locking position in such a way that movement of the bearing element (6) against the spring action of the spring-loaded bearing pin (17) is prevented.