Pipe interrupter and flushing system equipped with same

Abstract

A pipe interrupter has a pipe with an inlet and an outlet, wherein at least one ventilating opening connects an interior space of the pipe to an exterior space of the pipe between the inlet and the outlet. The pipe has an upper portion which narrows inwards in a manner directed away from the inlet, and a jet guide which is introduced into the narrowing upper portion, has a convex outer surface, and is spaced apart from a guiding surface of the narrowing upper portion and is designed and arranged in such a way that water flowing through the pipe is guided between the guiding surface of the narrowing upper portion and the convex outer surface of the jet guide.

Description

[0001] Pipe interrupter and flushing system equipped with it

[0002] The present invention relates to a pipe interrupter and a flushing system equipped with a pipe interrupter.

[0003] An important safety criterion in drinking water installations is preventing flows against the normal flow direction in the pipe network. Contaminated water could flow back into the drinking water pipe network from containers (bathtubs, toilet cisterns, swimming pools, etc.). This can be caused by a variety of reasons, such as higher pressure in a part of the system than in the supply network (back pressure), or by a negative pressure in a part of the system (back suction). This can occur, for example, due to a pipe burst, the activation of pressure booster and fire pumps, etc. The European standard EN 1717 therefore requires the installation of safety devices in drinking water installations to prevent unwanted backflow.

[0004] Depending on the classification of the substances contaminating drinking water to the so-called hazard classes, different functional safety devices are used. These safety devices include pipe separators, pipe interrupters, pipe aerators, and backflow preventers. Certain types of pipe interrupters have moving parts that only move into their functional position when water flows through them. However, these pipe interrupters are not suitable for protecting drinking water against contamination by flushing systems.

[0005] The present invention relates exclusively to so-called pipe interrupters, such as those typically used in shower and toilet installations. The invention particularly concerns pipe interrupters that do not have any moving parts, such as the movable closure parts of valves.

[0006] A pipe interrupter is a (relatively short) piece of pipe with a permanent side opening designed to prevent drinking water flowing through the piece of pipe from escaping through this opening as much as possible. As soon as overpressure builds up in the part of the pipe downstream of the pipe interrupter or negative pressure builds up in the drinking water installation upstream, the overpressure is reduced or the negative pressure is equalized through this opening. Drinking water generally only flows through pipe interrupters when a tap is opened. If a backflow effect occurs in the drinking water pipe, for example due to a pipe burst, the resulting negative pressure is reliably reduced from the interior of the pipe interrupter via the openings in the pipe interrupter, which serve as a connection to the atmosphere. Suction of non-potable water, for example toilet wastewater, through the pipe interrupter is not possible.Pipe interrupters are primarily used for individual protection, whereby each outlet and each device that could pose a risk or impair drinking water is individually protected.

[0007] In the previously known variants of commercially available pipe interrupters, a water jet is generated within the pipe interrupter through a local, sharp-edged cross-sectional constriction, which is completely detached from the inner pipe wall. In the area where the water jet is not in contact with the inner pipe wall, there is an opening in the pipe wall that serves as a vent. However, the resulting pressure and energy loss of the water flowing through the pipe interrupter is relatively high, which makes these types of commercial pipe interrupters unsuitable for some modern flushing installations.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to create a pipe interrupter of the generic type that can be used in modern flushing installations. In particular, the pipe interrupter should operate purely on a fluid-mechanical basis. The design features of the pipe interrupter are thus permanent, and the pipe interrupter has no moving parts that are only brought into their functional position during use.

[0009] The pipe interrupter preferably ensures maximum resistance to water attempting to flow outward through the ventilation line, while simultaneously providing sufficiently low resistance to air flow from the outside to the inside. Preferably, the lowest possible pressure and energy loss of the water flowing through the pipe interrupter is achieved.

[0010] This invention relates to a pipe interrupter as specified by the features of the independent patent claim. Further advantageous aspects of the pipe interrupter according to the invention emerge from the features of the dependent patent claims.

[0011] The pipe interrupter according to the invention comprises a pipe with an inlet and an outlet, wherein at least one ventilation opening between the inlet and the outlet connects an interior of the pipe with an exterior of the pipe. The pipe has an upper section that narrows inwardly, preferably continuously, away from the inlet, wherein a jet guide is incorporated in the narrowing upper section, which is designed and arranged such that water flowing through the pipe is guided between a guide surface of the narrowing upper section and an outer surface of the jet guide. The jet guide is arranged at a distance from the guide surface of the narrowing upper section. The opening or passage thus formed between the outer surface of the jet guide and the guide surface of the upper section is flowed through with water when the pipe interrupter is in use.

[0012] With a narrowing upper section and a jet guide incorporated therein, a water jet can be completely detached from the inner wall of the pipe interrupter by the pipe interrupter. It is possible to achieve complete detachment of the water jet over part of the circumference or over the entire circumference of an inner wall of the pipe. The water jet then flows as a focused jet at least through a central section of the pipe interrupter, preferably in the area of ​​the at least one ventilation opening. The narrowing upper section acts as a nozzle for the water jet. A nozzle opening preferably forms the lowest end of the upper section. The water jet flows through the adjacent area of ​​the pipe interrupter as a highly directed and focused jet. The jet guide results in the water jet being focused with minimal jet expansion following the upper section.The flow direction of the water jet corresponds to the main flow direction of the water through the pipe interrupter when installed.

[0013] A jet guide is elongated, with a longitudinal axis aligned in the direction of water flow through the pipe interrupter. A longitudinal axis of the jet guide is preferably arranged parallel to a longitudinal axis of the pipe.

[0014] A jet guide can be a central jet guide or a lateral jet guide. A lateral jet guide can be arranged laterally with respect to a central axis of the pipe interrupter. A lateral jet guide can be arranged laterally with respect to an upper section, in particular with respect to a nozzle opening in an upper section. Accordingly, a jet guide can be arranged centrally or decentrally in the narrowing upper section. The pipe interrupter has a through-opening between a guide surface of the narrowing upper section and an outer surface of the jet guide. With a central, decentralized, or lateral jet guide, the pipe interrupter, in preferred embodiments, has a circumferential through-opening, for example an annular gap, between a guide surface of the narrowing upper section of the pipe interrupter and the outer surface of the jet guide.In a lateral jet guide integrated into the inner wall of a pipe, for example, in the narrowing upper section, the through-opening is correspondingly asymmetrically shaped. By providing and arranging the jet guide in the pipe interrupter, the pipe interrupter has a continuous, permanently open connection between the upper section and a lower end of the pipe interrupter.

[0015] A pipe interrupter can be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically. A pipe interrupter can be symmetrical, for example rotationally symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis. In particular, a narrowing upper section can be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically. In a symmetrically designed upper section, a water jet is bundled and guided in a central area of ​​the pipe interrupter along its central axis. In symmetrical designs of the pipe interrupter, a nozzle opening is arranged centrally on a central axis of the pipe interrupter. In an asymmetrically designed upper section, a water jet is bundled and guided in a lateral area of ​​the pipe interrupter, offset from the central axis of the pipe interrupter. A nozzle opening of an upper area is then arranged decentrally in the upper section.

[0016] In a symmetrical design of the upper section, a central jet guide is arranged therein, and a water jet is guided essentially as a free jet through a region of the pipe interrupter adjacent to the upper section. In an asymmetrical design of the upper section, a jet guide is arranged radially offset toward the inner pipe wall and, in a maximum variant, can be attached to a pipe wall or integrated into the inner pipe wall. In these embodiments, the inner pipe wall can assume part of the jet guide.

[0017] A beam guide has a convex outer surface. The outer surface of the beam guide is at least partially, preferably completely, convex. A 'convex outer surface' is understood to mean a curved surface shape, which can be continuously curved, for example, in a cylindrical beam guide, but also discontinuously curved, for example, in a rod-shaped beam guide with a polygonal cross-section. The convexity preferably refers to a cross-section of the beam guide. Convexity preferably also refers to one end of a beam guide, in particular to a lower end of the beam guide, and more preferably to both ends of a beam guide.

[0018] The cross-section of a beam guide can be round or square, in particular circular, semicircular, oval, or polygonal. The cross-section of a beam guide is preferably circular to achieve the most uniform beam guidance possible around the entire circumference of the beam guide.

[0019] The jet guide is preferably elongated. The jet guide is preferably in the form of a rod, an elongated cone, or a longitudinal rib. A longitudinal rib is a preferred form of jet guide when the jet guide is attached to or integrated into the inner wall of a pipe. A jet guide in the form of a longitudinal rib is preferably integrated into a tapered upper section and preferably runs in a straight line and parallel to the main flow direction into a central region of the pipe interrupter.

[0020] A lower free end of a jet guide, in particular a rod, directed toward the outlet can have different shapes, for example, flattened, rounded, or tapered. Preferably, a jet guide has a rounded or tapered lower end.

[0021] A water jet tends to flow along a surface, and thus along the surface of the jet guide, but also along the inner wall of the narrowing upper section. With the jet guide, a water jet is guided further along the jet guide even after exiting the upper section, for example in the central longitudinal area of ​​the pipe interrupter. With a rounded or pointed end of the jet guide, a radially outward movement of the water jet can be counteracted, for example at the end of the narrowing section, but especially at the end of a jet guide. This further concentrates the water jet and prevents or at least limits any undesired widening of the jet.

[0022] A convex outer surface of a jet guide enables the formation of the most homogeneous flow possible between the guide surface of the upper section and the outer surface of the jet guide, preferably with a symmetrical velocity profile. A convex outer surface of a jet guide forms a relatively small wetting surface with correspondingly low friction effects.

[0023] As water flows through the pipe interrupter, a water film forms around the jet guide. The water film is guided along the jet guide in a controlled manner, particularly toward the lower end of the jet guide, where it is forced to separate in a controlled manner.

[0024] 'Radially outward' in relation to the jet guidance means a direction radially away from the jet guidance, i.e., perpendicular to the main flow direction or the longitudinal extent of the pipe interrupter. For a central jet guidance, this can be a radial outward direction toward the inner wall of the pipe. For a lateral jet guidance, especially one located on the inner wall of the pipe, this can be a direction toward the center of the pipe interrupter.

[0025] A jet guide is inserted into the pipe, in particular into the upper section. The jet guide is preferably fastened in the pipe. The jet guide is preferably inserted into the upper section of the pipe interrupter and fastened therein. The pipe interrupter or the jet guide can have corresponding fastening means. For example, an inlet-side end of the jet guide can have fastening means with which the jet guide can be fastened in the pipe. In a preferred embodiment, an inlet-side end of the jet guide has at least two wing-like, radially outward-facing fastening elements with which the jet guide is fastened, preferably clamped, in the narrowing upper section.

[0026] The jet guide can be designed to be centered. A water jet flowing through the pipe interrupter can fix the steel guide in the narrowing upper section due to the water pressure. A jet guide can be formed integrally with a guide surface of the upper section. This is particularly advantageous in embodiments of the pipe interrupter in which a jet guide is arranged or integrated decentrally in the upper section or decentrally in the pipe, in particular on an inner pipe wall or on a guide surface of the upper section.

[0027] A jet guide preferably extends at least to a lower end of the upper section. The jet guide can extend to a height of the at least one ventilation opening. A jet guide preferably extends beyond a lower end of an upper section toward the outlet. A jet guide can, for example, extend at least 5 millimeters or at least 10 millimeters beyond the lower end of the upper section.

[0028] Preferably, the beam guide is designed uniformly along its longitudinal extent. For example, in particular, a cross-section of a beam guide is constant along its longitudinal extent. A beam guide thus preferably has a constant outer surface along a longitudinal extent of the beam guide. In certain embodiments, the beam guide is designed conically along its longitudinal extent. The cross-section of the beam guide tapers from its upper end to its lower end. Such a taper is preferably constant.

[0029] Preferably, a tapered cross-section of a beam guide is matched to the profile of an inner wall of the tapered upper section. For example, an outer surface of a conically shaped beam guide can run parallel to a likewise conically shaped inner wall of the tapered upper section, at least over a portion of the beam guide.

[0030] Preferably, the tube has a tapered lower section. The at least one ventilation opening is then arranged between the upper section and the lower section.

[0031] Analogous to an upper section, the narrowing lower section can be designed symmetrically or asymmetrically. A constriction in the lower section is arranged centrally or decentrally in the pipe or in the pipe interrupter. A lower section and an upper section are preferably both designed symmetrically or both designed asymmetrically. In an asymmetrical design, the upper and lower sections are preferably shifted radially to the same side of the pipe interrupter. A constriction of a lower section is preferably arranged axially to an imaginary extension of a nozzle opening of an upper section. A water jet should be able to flow as unhindered as possible from the end of the upper section, through the middle section and into the lower section.

[0032] To ensure adequate ventilation of the interior of the pipe, a ventilation opening can be designed in various shapes and sizes. A ventilation opening is preferably round or elongated, for example, circular, oval, elliptical, rectangular, or as a through-hole in the pipe wall, particularly as a through-hole or slot.

[0033] Preferably, several ventilation openings are arranged between the inlet and outlet. The several ventilation openings are preferably arranged in a regular distribution around the circumference of the tube. The ventilation openings can be identical or differently designed. For example, one or two ventilation openings can be round and one or two ventilation openings can be elongated. Differently designed ventilation openings are preferably arranged alternately around the circumference. A regular arrangement of ventilation openings is particularly advantageous for symmetrical tube interrupters. In asymmetrical tube interrupters, one or more ventilation openings are preferably introduced into one side of the tube, which side is maximally opposite a jet guide with respect to a central axis of the tube interrupter.

[0034] Preferably, a lower end of the upper section and the at least one ventilation opening are spaced at a minimum distance. This minimum distance is preferably at least 20 millimeters, for example, between 20 millimeters and 40 millimeters.

[0035] In embodiments of the pipe interrupter that have a lower tapered section, a lower end of the upper section and an upper end of the lower section preferably have a minimum distance. This minimum distance is preferably at least 20 millimeters, for example, between 20 millimeters and 40 millimeters.

[0036] The tapered lower section can have a straight or flared section directed toward the outlet. With a flared section, the pipe interrupter has a Venturi configuration in a lower section. The flared section ensures that a water jet is expanded as it passes through the lower section. The water jet is thus preferably expanded to a maximum inner diameter of the pipe, which maximum inner diameter preferably corresponds to an outlet opening of the outlet.

[0037] A deflection region can be arranged between an inner wall of the pipe and the region of the lower section directed towards the outlet. The deflection region is preferably arranged between the inner wall of the pipe and an outer region of a straight or widening region of the lower section. Such a deflection region is preferably designed to be circumferential, but can also be only partially circumferential. A deflection region is suitable for redirecting water flowing back along the inner wall of the pipe in the deflection region back towards the outlet. It thus supports the re-application of the water jet released in the upper region. The deflected water can then, for example, be guided through the pipe interrupter on an outer side of the straight or widening region of the lower section in a main flow direction of the water and combined with the main water jet.This allows water to flow through the pipe interrupter in a main flow direction and simultaneously divert backflowing water.

[0038] A pipe connected to a pipe interrupter usually has bends to connect the pipe to a generally horizontal plumbing fixture. Depending on the bend and pipe diameter, backflow can occur. In extreme cases, this can lead to flooding of the ventilation openings. A diverter area provided in the pipe interrupter creates additional flow guidance in an outlet area of ​​the pipe interrupter. Backflowing water tends to flow in the edge areas of a pipe, typically along the inside wall of the pipe. By diverting the backflowing water in a directed manner, a flow in the direction of drainage can be achieved, thus preventing flooding. In addition, pressure is built up in the area of ​​the diverter. This effect is also noticeable in the direction of drainage and thus beneficial for the flushing purpose.

[0039] Another function and advantage of a narrowing lower section due to a backflow situation is that, due to the narrowed cross-section of the pipe diameter in the lower area, backflowing water can in principle less easily penetrate into the pipe interrupter in the opposite direction.

[0040] Due to the advantageous effect on water flow in an outlet-side area of ​​the pipe interrupter, a diverting area can also be implemented in a separate pipe component, a so-called diverting element. Such a diverting element can be combined with the pipe interrupter according to the invention, but especially with existing pipe interrupters. This can improve the function of existing pipe interrupters and expand their application range. A separate diverting element is described below.

[0041] One requirement of a pipe interrupter is that, during normal operation, as little water as possible escapes from the ventilation opening(s) of the pipe interrupter. To this end, a baffle can be fitted inside the pipe in front of the at least one ventilation opening. Preferably, a baffle is fitted in front of each ventilation opening in the pipe. Although the jet guide directs the water jet inside the pipe interrupter and the water jet is spaced from this ventilation opening as it passes through this ventilation opening, splash water can still reach the inside wall of the pipe. A baffle provided inside the pipe interrupter in front of the at least one ventilation opening can prevent or reduce water from escaping through the ventilation opening to the outside. Depending on the design of the baffle, splash water can be directed towards the outlet of the pipe interrupter.

[0042] A baffle is provided between the jet guide and the inner pipe wall. A baffle can, for example, be a cover for the ventilation opening provided on the inner pipe wall. If there are multiple ventilation openings, several covers can be provided on the inner pipe wall.

[0043] A diaphragm can be provided centrally in the pipe interrupter. For example, a diaphragm can be a vane of a vane-like diaphragm device. A diaphragm is preferably curved, with an imaginary outer circumference of a diaphragm device being arranged, for example, parallel to and spaced from the inner pipe wall. An imaginary inner circumference of a diaphragm device preferably runs parallel to and spaced from the convex surface of the jet guide. The diaphragm itself extends radially and circumferentially outwards from a central region. Such a diaphragm counteracts the atomization process at a lower end of the narrowing upper region, which acts like a nozzle opening.

[0044] A baffle device is preferably firmly connected to the upper section at its upper end. A lower end of the baffle device and an upper end of a lower section preferably have a minimum distance. This minimum distance ensures that any backflowing water can flow away essentially unhindered through the at least one ventilation opening.

[0045] The pipe breaker can be manufactured in one piece or in multiple pieces. The pipe breaker can be made of one or more different materials. In particular, internal elements of the pipe breaker, such as the upper section, lower section, jet guide, and inner and outer aperture devices, can be made of common injection-molded materials. Typical materials for the pipe breaker or its components are metal and plastic, such as stainless steel and polyamide.

[0046] A pipe interrupter can be made of a metal pipe or a plastic pipe, for example. A plastic pipe can have an outer metal tube in the form of a metal sleeve for mechanical reinforcement.

[0047] Preferably, a pipe interrupter is made up of several pieces.

[0048] An upper section or a lower section of the pipe interrupter can be separately manufactured elements, which are preferably incorporated into a pipe. In preferred embodiments of the pipe interrupter, an upper and a lower section are incorporated into a pipe as separately manufactured elements. In these embodiments, the lower or upper section, preferably the lower and upper sections, are preferably made of plastic and are incorporated into a metal pipe, preferably pressed into it.

[0049] To prevent or reduce the penetration of external contaminants through the at least one ventilation opening into the interior of the pipe interrupter, an external protective shield can be provided on the outside of a pipe above the ventilation opening. An external protective shield can protect one or more ventilation openings and can be designed, for example, as a skirt surrounding a pipe.

[0050] An outer protective shield can also be designed as a protective channel. Due to their longitudinal extension, protective channels make it difficult for dirt to penetrate the protective channels and thus the ventilation openings. Preferably, one protective channel is provided per ventilation opening. A protective channel can be arranged axially or circumferentially around the outer circumference of the pipe interrupter. Circumferentially arranged protective channels additionally prevent dirt from entering a ventilation opening.

[0051] The invention also relates to a flushing system comprising a sink and a flushing line for connecting the sink to a drinking water supply network. The flushing line has a vertical section, and a pipe interrupter according to the invention is arranged in this vertical section.

[0052] The invention also relates to a deflection element. The deflection element comprises a pipe with an inlet and an outlet, wherein the pipe has a section that narrows inwardly away from the inlet, wherein the narrowing section is implemented as an inner collar. The inner collar can be straight or widened toward the outlet. A deflection region is arranged between an inner wall of the pipe and the inner collar in order to deflect water flowing back along the inner wall of the pipe in the deflection region toward the outlet.

[0053] In use, the deflection element is connected downstream of a pipe breaker, i.e. it is arranged downstream of a pipe breaker.

[0054] Preferably, the diverter element is attached to the outlet end of a pipe interrupter. An opposite end of the diverter element is then connected to the further flushing system, for example, a hose. A diverter element has suitable connecting means.

[0055] The deflection element preferably has upper and lower connecting means at its upper and lower ends. Upper connecting means are preferably suitable and designed for connecting the deflection element to a pipe interrupter, in particular for connecting to a conventional pipe interrupter known from the prior art or to a pipe interrupter according to the invention. The connecting means, in particular lower connecting means, are preferably designed to be attached to a pipe section or hose, for example, a reinforced hose. The connecting means can in particular be internal threads, external threads, plug-in connections, or press-fit or adhesive surfaces.

[0056] In a separate deflection element, a water jet flows preferably unhindered, i.e. without contact, through the narrowing section of the inner collar of the deflection element.

[0057] A deflection zone is essentially formed by the distance between the inner collar and the inner pipe wall. A deflection zone is closed on one side. The outlet end of the deflection zone is open, allowing water that backs up against the inner pipe wall to flow back, is deflected at the closed upper end of the deflection zone, and flows down the outer wall of the inner collar toward the outlet.

[0058] Various designs, functionality, and advantages have already been described in this application using a deflection area integrated into the pipe interrupter. These are applicable accordingly to the separate deflection element and vice versa.

[0059] The deflection element is preferably made of metal or plastic. The deflection element can, for example, be milled or cast from solid material.

[0060] Further advantageous aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of exemplary embodiments of the pipe interrupter and the flushing system with the aid of the drawings. They show:

[0061] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a flushing system;

[0062] Fig. 2, 3 external views of embodiments of the pipe interrupter;

[0063] Fig. 4 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the pipe interrupter;

[0064] Fig. 5 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the pipe interrupter; Fig. 6 is an embodiment of an outer aperture;

[0065] Fig. 7 an asymmetrical embodiment of the pipe interrupter with lateral jet guidance;

[0066] Fig. 8 is a sectional view of the pipe interrupter according to Fig. 7;

[0067] Fig. 9 is a sectional view of a protective cover;

[0068] Fig. 10 is an external view of an embodiment of a pipe interrupter with a protective screen according to Fig. 9;

[0069] Fig. 11 is a schematic sectional view of a separate deflection element;

[0070] Fig. 12 an external view of a separate deflection element;

[0071] Fig. 13 an interaction of pipe interrupter with separate deflection element in exploded view;

[0072] Fig. 14-16 show a cross-section (Fig. 14 top) and longitudinal cross-section (Fig. 14 bottom), a side view (Fig. 15), as well as a side view (Fig. 16 bottom) and bottom view (Fig. 16 top) of an embodiment of an upper portion of a pipe interrupter with aperture device.

[0073] The following definition applies to the following description: If reference symbols are provided in a figure for the purpose of clarity but are not mentioned in the directly related description section, reference is made to their explanation in preceding or subsequent description sections. Conversely, to avoid overloading the drawings, reference symbols that are less relevant for immediate understanding are not included in all figures. Reference is made to the other figures for this purpose. Position and direction information such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, side, etc. refer to the vertical installation position of the pipe interrupter shown in the drawing.

[0074] Fig. 1 illustrates the flushing system according to the invention using the example of a toilet flushing system. The flushing system comprises a sink S, designed here as a toilet bowl, which can be connected, or is connected in practical use, to a drinking water supply network W via a flush line having three sections La, Lb, and Lc. A valve V is located in the first line section La, and a pipe interrupter 1 according to the invention is inserted into the second line section Lb. The third line section Lc leads to the sink S. The second line section Lb runs vertically in practical use, and thus the pipe interrupter 1 is also aligned vertically in practical use. By opening the valve V, flush water flows from the drinking water supply network W from top to bottom through the pipe interrupter and via the pipe interrupter 1 into the sink S.A backflow of rinse water from the sink S into the drinking water pipe network W is prevented by the pipe interrupter 1.

[0075] According to the example shown in Fig. 4, the pipe interrupter 1 comprises a continuous pipe 100 with a longitudinal axis A, which has an inlet 110 and an outlet 120 at its two longitudinal ends.

[0076] During operation, the pipe interrupter 1 is arranged vertically, with flushing water flowing through the pipe 100 in the direction of arrow 101 from top to bottom.

[0077] The tube 100 has an upper section 130 tapering away from the inlet 110 and having a round nozzle opening 112 at its lower end. The tube 100 has a central section 131 adjoining the upper section, with a water jet (not shown) completely separated from an inner tube wall 102. The tube 100 also has a tapering lower section 132 with a Venturi-like constriction 122 and a deflection area 123 for backflowing water. The lower section 132 opens into the outlet 120 of the tube 100.

[0078] In the upper section, flushing water entering the pipe interrupter 1 through the inlet 110 is reduced in the narrowing upper section 130 to a central jet with a smaller diameter than the inner diameter 102 of the pipe 100. The jet exits the nozzle opening 112, which forms the lower end of the upper section 130.

[0079] In the upper section 130, a rod 113 is arranged along the longitudinal axis A of the pipe interrupter 1 and inserted into the pipe interrupter 1. The longitudinal axis A corresponds to the central axis of the pipe 100 and that of the pipe interrupter 1. The essentially cylindrical rod 113 with a round cross-section is inserted via several fastening wings 114 into the conically narrowing part 111 of the upper region 130, preferably inserted therein in a self-centering manner or fastened therein. The rod 113 serves as a jet guide in the upper section 130 and in the adjoining central section 131. The rod 113 preferably extends from the inlet 110 of the pipe interrupter 1 into the central section 131.

[0080] Rinse water flows between the inner wall of the upper section 130 and the outside of the rod 113 through the nozzle opening 112. The nozzle opening 112 is round, with an annular gap for flowing water between the outer surface of the rod 113 and the inner wall of the upper section 130. The nozzle opening is the narrowest point in the pipe 100 in the upper and middle sections 130, 131.

[0081] After passing through the nozzle opening 112, the water jet continues to be guided centrally along the outside of the rod. Furthermore, the water jet is directed toward the longitudinal axis at the tapered end 115 of the rod 113 and released from it in a controlled manner. This counteracts a radially outward movement at the nozzle orifice.

[0082] The water jet can now flow through the central section 131 completely detached from the pipe inner wall 102. The central section 131 has a constant cross-section, which corresponds to the maximum inner diameter of the pipe 100.

[0083] At the outlet end of the middle section 131, several ventilation openings 116, 117 are provided circumferentially in the pipe 100. In the example in Fig. 4, four ventilation openings are provided, three of which are visible in the figure. Two ventilation openings 116 are round through-holes, and one ventilation opening 117 is formed by an elongated hole. The ventilation openings 116, 117 serve to supply air into the interior of the pipe interrupter in the event that a negative pressure occurs in the piping system in which the pipe interrupter 1 is arranged in practical use. Air can enter the pipe 100 through the ventilation openings 116, 117, thereby preventing the backflow of potentially contaminated rinse water from bottom to top through the pipe interrupter 1 and back into the drinking water supply network.

[0084] The water jet now passes through the central region 131, essentially as a concentrated jet, spaced from the ventilation openings 116, 117, toward the narrowing lower section 132. The water jet passes through the central region 131 essentially without atomization. The lower section 132 has a constriction 122 and an adjoining, widening lower part. The constriction 122, together with the nozzle opening 112, forms the narrowest points in the tube 100. The constriction has a larger diameter than the nozzle opening 112 so that the water jet can flow essentially unhindered into the lower section 132 and pass through the constriction 122.

[0085] The widening lower part of the constriction 122 serves to widen the flushing water jet as far as possible to the original maximum diameter of the pipe 100.

[0086] In the lower section 132, a deflection area 123 is provided between the constriction 122 and the pipe inner wall 102.

[0087] Backflowing water, for example a backflow due to a strongly curved flushing line downstream of the pipe interrupter 1, flows along the inner pipe wall 102 against the general flow direction 101. This backflowing water is now redirected in the direction of the arrow in the deflection area 123 and integrated back into the flushing water jet.

[0088] The tube 100 is preferably a plastic tube which can be inserted, preferably pressed, into a metal tube 109 (shown in dashed lines) to improve the overall stability of the pipe interrupter 1.

[0089] A distance 140 between the nozzle opening 112 and an upper end of the lower section 132 is preferably selected to meet legal standards for pipe interrupters. A distance 140 is preferably at least 20 mm long. Due to the symmetrical design of the pipe interrupter 1 in Fig. 4, essentially all elements of the pipe interrupter are designed symmetrically and / or arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis A.

[0090] In Fig. 5, a multi-part pipe interrupter 1 is shown in an exploded view.

[0091] The upper section 130 and the lower section 132 are manufactured as separate upper and lower plastic parts 150, 160 and are inserted, for example, pressed into a metal tube 200 at their respective ends. The metal tube 200 forms the middle section 131 and contains the ventilation openings 116.

[0092] The narrowed nozzle area with the rod-shaped jet guide in the upper section 130, as well as the preferably also provided constriction 122 in the lower section 132 are not visible in Figure 5.

[0093] The lower section 132 is sealed in the pipe 200 by means of a sealing ring 161.

[0094] To prevent the direct discharge of rinsing water, especially splash water, from a nozzle opening 112 into the ventilation openings 116, a cylindrical diaphragm device 151 is provided around the area of ​​the nozzle opening up to the ventilation openings 116. This diaphragm device 151 is preferably manufactured integrally with the upper plastic part 150. The diaphragm device 151 has four vanes 152, which are conically shaped like an impeller and slightly curved inward. The diaphragm device 151 essentially acts as a droplet separator and counteracts the atomization process of the water jet at the nozzle opening 112.

[0095] The direct escape of flushing water from the pipe interrupter through the ventilation openings 116 is prevented by the vanes 152 of the diaphragm device 151. The vanes 152 are arranged spaced from and in front of the ventilation openings 116. The vanes 152 direct spray water downward.

[0096] The aperture device 151, in particular the wings 152, are optimized in terms of arrangement, shape and size so that they effectively keep the flowing splash water away from the ventilation openings 116, but at the same time represent only a minimal disturbance to the actual ventilation.

[0097] The orifice device 151 generally has no contact with the flowing rinse water, except for splash water. The orifice device also essentially has no contact with the inner pipe wall 102. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the vanes 152 of the orifice device 151 are arranged radially inward in front of the orifice openings. However, it is also possible to make the orifice device 151 shorter, possibly with slightly reduced splash protection. For example, the orifice device 151 can protrude only a few millimeters beyond a nozzle opening, thus extending only a few millimeters into the central section 131.

[0098] To prevent dirt from entering the ventilation openings 116 from the outside, the ventilation openings 116 are designed as circumferential openings in the pipe wall. Furthermore, a circumferential outer protective shield 180 is provided on the outside of the pipe 200, covering the ventilation openings 116. The outer protective shield 180 has as many shields as there are ventilation openings 116; in the example of Fig. 5, the protective shield 180 has four conically shaped shields 181. The shields 181 cover the ventilation openings 116 but are spaced apart from them to allow air to flow through. The openings of the shields 181 are directed axially downward to make it more difficult for dirt to penetrate the pipe interrupter 1 through the ventilation openings 116. Such a protective cover 180 with simple conical surfaces as covers 181 can be manufactured relatively easily, for example by an injection molding process.

[0099] The pipe 200 has a substantially constant cross-section. The two end regions of the pipe 200 are provided externally with a thread 170 and 171, respectively, which serve to connect the pipe 200 to supply and discharge lines (not shown here). During operation, the pipe interrupter 1 is arranged vertically, with flushing water flowing through the pipe 200 from top to bottom in the direction of arrow 101. A threaded connection of the pipe interrupter 1 is expedient. As shown in Fig. 5, two external threads, but also two internal threads, or one external thread and one internal thread can be provided. Other connection types are also possible, for example, hose connections, welding, or gluing.

[0100] Fig. 6 shows a further variant of a circumferential outer protective shield 180. Four ventilation openings 116, 117 are covered by the outer protective shield 180. The outer protective shield 180 has four funnel-shaped shields 182. The openings of the funnel-shaped shields 182 are directed downwards to further impede the penetration of external contaminants into the ventilation openings 116, 117 and into the pipe interrupter 1.

[0101] Fig. 7 shows a schematic, through-view view of a pipe interrupter 1 in an asymmetrical embodiment. The pipe interrupter 1 has an asymmetrically designed upper section 130. The upper section 130 extends away from the inlet 110, narrowing conically towards the outlet, and has a round nozzle opening 112 at its lower end. However, the nozzle opening 112 is shifted radially towards the pipe inner wall 102. The rod-shaped jet guide 113 is arranged along the pipe inner wall 102 within the upper section 130. A rounded upper end of the jet guide 113 protrudes beyond the inlet 110. A rounded lower end protrudes beyond the nozzle opening 112 into the central section 131.

[0102] Water is bundled laterally in the upper section 130 and guided downwards along the laterally arranged jet guide 113 in the upper section, through the nozzle opening 112, into the middle section 131. The jet guide extends approximately halfway into the middle section 131.

[0103] In the embodiment of the pipe interrupter 1 shown in Fig. 7, the water jet in the central section 131 is not completely separated from a pipe inner wall 102. The pipe inner wall 102 partially acts as a jet boundary.

[0104] The lateral jet guide 113 is arranged in the nozzle opening 112 and, in the central section 131, counteracts the atomization of the water jet directed radially outward, i.e., predominantly toward the center of the pipe 100, 200. The water jet flows essentially in a concentrated form through the central section 131 of the pipe interrupter 1 and into the conically tapered lower section 132 with constriction 122. The lower section is also asymmetrically designed, with the constriction 122 arranged laterally in the pipe 100, 200 and axially in the imaginary extension of the nozzle opening 112. The tapered lower section 132 has a deflection area 123 for backflowing water that does not completely extend around the circumference. The lower section 132 opens into the outlet 120 of the pipe 100, 200.

[0105] The tube wall 102 includes a rectangular ventilation opening 118 in the central section 131, which is arranged above the upper end of the lower section 132 and extends to the lower end of the upper region 130. The ventilation opening 118 is also arranged in the longitudinal side of the tube 100 opposite the nozzle opening 112, the constriction 122, and the jet guide 113.

[0106] This arrangement of ventilation opening 118 and jet guide 113 allows the use of a very large ventilation opening or, if necessary, the omission of a diaphragm device, since the water jet runs almost at the maximum distance from the ventilation opening 118.

[0107] Fig. 8 shows a longitudinal section through the asymmetrical pipe interrupter 1 as described in Fig. 7. The dimensions and arrangement of the ventilation opening 118 and the jet guide 113, as well as the deflection area 123, are clearly visible. The deflection area 123 is located below the ventilation opening 118. There is no deflection area 123 in the area of ​​the constriction 122.

[0108] Depending on the lateral displacement of the jet guide 113, it can have the shape of a longitudinal rib, which is arranged axially in the longitudinal direction along the inner pipe wall 102 within the upper section 130. Water is then guided along the rib-shaped, laterally arranged jet guide 113 in the upper section, through the nozzle opening 112 into the middle section 131. A jet guide in the shape of a longitudinal rib can be easily formed integrally with the upper section 130. In Fig. 2, the outer protective shield 180 is designed as a circumferential apron 182. The circumferential apron 182 is arranged such that it covers the ventilation openings from the outside. The protective shield is open at the bottom. The two end regions of the pipe 100 are provided externally with a thread 170 and 171, respectively. In this exemplary embodiment, the protective shield is an integral component of the pipe interrupter.

[0109] In Fig. 3, an outer protective shield in the form of a circumferential skirt 182 is also arranged. For this purpose, longitudinally formed reinforcement strips 183 are provided in an outer region of the central section of the pipe interrupter 1. The four reinforcement strips 183 are arranged evenly distributed over the circumference of the pipe 100. The reinforcement strips 183 extend over the protective shield formed as a skirt 182 and over a substantial longitudinal region of the pipe interrupter 1. The skirt 182 and reinforcements 183 are preferably formed integrally with the pipe 100, for example, from metal or plastic.

[0110] During normal operation, the pipe interrupter according to the invention directs flush water from the drinking water line to a connected sink, such as a toilet bowl, or other appliance with minimal losses. The pipe interrupter creates a maximum pressure drop for flush water trying to flow from the inside to the outside through the ventilation lines, while simultaneously ensuring sufficiently low resistance for air flow from the outside to the inside.

[0111] The invention has been explained above using exemplary embodiments, but is not intended to be limited to these exemplary embodiments. Rather, numerous modifications are conceivable by those skilled in the art without deviating from the teachings of the invention. For example, the pipe interrupter according to the invention can be equipped with just a single ventilation line or with several, in particular three or four, ventilation lines. Furthermore, the pipe interrupter according to the invention can be used not only in toilet flushing systems, but also, for example, in shower installations or appliances that are connected to a drinking water line for cooling, for example. Fig. 9 and Fig. 10 show an embodiment of an outer protective screen in the form of a circumferential apron 182. The circumferential apron 182 is arranged such that it covers the ventilation openings 117 from the outside. The protective screen is open at the bottom.The two end sections of the tube 100, 200 are externally provided with a thread 170 and 171 respectively.

[0112] The skirt 182 has four longitudinal ribs 183, each of which rests against the outer pipe wall in the areas between the ventilation openings 117, thus stabilizing the skirt 182. The longitudinal ribs 183 are formed over the entire length of the skirt 182 in Fig. 9. The longitudinal ribs 183 can also be formed over only a portion of the length, preferably in the upper region of the skirt 182. In such embodiments, no particular alignment of the longitudinal ribs 183 with respect to the ventilation openings 117 is required.

[0113] The apron has several inwardly directed retaining elements 184 at its upper end. The retaining elements 184 are directed radially inward and are evenly distributed around the inner circumference of the apron. The apron can be secured in the thread 171 using the retaining elements 184.

[0114] Fig. 11 shows a sectional view of a deflection element 3. A deflection area 123 for backflowing water is provided in the deflection element 3. The deflection element has a pipe 190 with an inlet 110 and an outlet 120.

[0115] The tube 190 has a narrowing region directed away from the outlet with a constriction 122. The narrowing region is implemented as an inner collar 191. The collar 191 is slightly flared downwards on its inner side (outlet side). The outer side of the collar 191 is essentially straight.

[0116] A water jet flowing through the deflection element 3 in the longitudinal and main flow direction 101 is generally dammed downstream due to backpressure in a water pipe. The dammed water flows back in the direction of the arrow along the inner pipe wall 102 and is then deflected in the deflection area 123 and guided back into the main flow direction 101. This prevents dammed water from flowing back into a pipe interrupter. The deflection element 3 is intended to be combined with a pipe interrupter, such that, in particular, a commercially available pipe interrupter can be supplemented with a deflection area. The deflection element preferably has corresponding connecting areas 192 and holding means 193 on its outer side. These are indicated schematically in Fig. 12. The connecting areas 192 can be provided as adhesive or pressing surfaces. The connecting areas can also be designed with corresponding threads.The holding means 193 are shown here in the form of an integrated nut, by means of which the deflection element 3 can be held and fastened, for example, to a pipe interrupter or hose.

[0117] Fig. 13 shows an exploded view of the interaction of a pipe interrupter 2, in particular a conventional pipe interrupter, with a deflection element 3. The deflection element 3 is arranged downstream with respect to a main flow direction 101. The deflection element 3 is preferably arranged directly at an outlet-side end of the pipe interrupter.

[0118] Figures 14, 15 and 16 show different views of an upper section 130, which is designed as a separate plastic part 150 with an integrated aperture device 151.

[0119] The longitudinal cross-section of Fig. 14 shows the conically tapered portion 111 of the upper region 130, which ends in the nozzle opening 112. The jet guide 113 is arranged along the longitudinal center axis of the upper region 130. The jet guide 113 is shaped as a rod that continuously tapers downwards in the main flow direction, with the lower end 115 of the jet guide 113 being rounded.

[0120] The jet guide 113 is connected to an outer wall of the plastic part 150 via three webs 214 in its upper region. The rounded upper end of the jet guide 113 is freely positioned opposite the main flow direction.

[0121] The substantially cylindrically shaped aperture device 151 is arranged around the area of ​​the nozzle opening 112 and extends longitudinally beyond the lower end 115 of the jet guide 113. The aperture device 151 is manufactured integrally with the upper plastic part 150. As clearly visible in Fig. 16, the aperture device 151 has four vanes 152, which are slightly curved like an impeller and extend from an inner diameter to an outer diameter. The inner diameter essentially corresponds to the outer diameter of the edge of the conically tapered upper section forming the nozzle opening 112. The outer diameter is smaller than an inner diameter of a tube 200 into which the plastic part 150 is installed.

[0122] The wings 152 have a downwardly tapered lower edge 153. Thus, spray water is directed downwards on one side of the wing to a point from which it can drip downwards in a controlled manner. An anti-twist device 154 is attached to one wing 152 of the diaphragm device. The anti-twist device 154 is designed as a radially outwardly projecting protrusion.

[0123] After installation of the separate plastic part 150 according to Figures 14 to 16 into a pipe 200, preferably a metal pipe, the plastic part 150 is secured against rotation within the pipe 200. The anti-rotation device 154 can also serve as a positioning aid during assembly of the pipe interrupter.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Pipe interrupter comprising a pipe with an inlet and an outlet, wherein at least one ventilation opening connects an interior space of the pipe with an exterior space of the pipe between the inlet and the outlet, wherein the pipe has an upper section that narrows inwards away from the inlet, and wherein a jet guide with a convex outer surface is provided in the narrowing upper section, which jet guide is spaced apart from a guide surface of the narrowing upper section and is designed and arranged such that water flowing through the pipe is guided between the guide surface of the narrowing upper section and the convex outer surface of the jet guide.

2. Pipe interrupter according to claim 1, wherein the jet guide is elongated, preferably having the form of a rod or a longitudinal rib.

3. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the narrowing upper section is designed symmetrically or asymmetrically.

4. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the jet guidance is arranged centrally or decentrally in the narrowing upper section.

5. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipe has a narrowing lower section.

6. Pipe interrupter according to claim 5, wherein the at least one ventilation opening is arranged between the narrowing upper section and the narrowing lower section.

7. Pipe interrupter according to one of claims 5 or 6, wherein a lower end of the narrowing upper section and an upper end of the narrowing lower section Sections have a minimum distance between the bars, and this minimum distance is preferably between 20 millimeters and 40 millimeters.

8. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one ventilation opening is elongated.

9. Pipe interrupter according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the narrowing lower section has a straight or widening area directed towards the outlet.

10. Pipe interrupter according to claim 9, wherein a deflection area is arranged between an inner wall of the pipe and the straight or widening area of ​​the lower section directed towards the outlet, in order to deflect water flowing back along the inner wall of the pipe towards the outlet in the deflection area.

11. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an aperture is fitted inside the pipe in front of the at least one ventilation opening.

12. Pipe interrupter according to claim 11, wherein the aperture is a wing of a vane-type aperture device.

13. Pipe interrupter according to one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the narrowing upper section or the narrowing lower section is introduced into a pipe as a separately manufactured element, wherein preferably the narrowing upper and the narrowing lower sections are introduced into a pipe as separately manufactured elements.

14. Pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an outer protective plate preventing the ingress of contaminants is arranged on the outside of the pipe in the area of ​​the at least one ventilation opening.

15. Flushing system comprising a sink and a flushing line for connecting the sink to a drinking water supply network, wherein the flushing line has a comprising a vertical section, wherein a pipe interrupter according to one of the preceding claims is arranged in this vertical section.

Images