Drain for a sanitary area, in particular for a shower tray or floor drain, and system comprising such a drain and a flushing device for carrying out a hygienic flushing

Abstract

The invention relates to a drain (3) for a sanitary area, in particular for a bathtub or shower tray (2) or as a floor drain, with a drain body (3.1) having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, which is provided above the inlet opening with a removable, preferably hood-shaped cover (5), wherein the cover (5) limits a water inlet gap. In order to create a technical solution that makes it possible to conveniently signal to a user of a shower or bathtub information about unusually high humidity under the shower or bathtub or other information concerning the water flowing through the drain (3) of the shower or bathtub, the invention provides that the drain body (3.1) is provided with at least one electronic sensor (40), wherein the cover (5) comprises a signaling device (43) configured for optical and / or acoustic signaling of a condition of a drainage environment or the drain (3) detected by means of the sensor (40), and / or a signal transmission device (47) configured for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by the sensor. Furthermore, a system comprising such a drain (3) and a flushing device for performing a hygienic flush is described.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a drain for a sanitary area, in particular for a bathtub or shower tray or as a floor drain, with a drain housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, which is provided above the inlet opening with a removable, preferably hood-shaped cover, wherein the cover limits a water inlet gap.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a system comprising a process of the aforementioned type and a rinsing device for carrying out a hygienic rinsing.

[0003] In bathrooms, unwanted moisture can penetrate cavities beneath sanitary fixtures. For example, with built-in shower trays, moisture can seep unnoticed through a faulty or damaged sealant joint (silicone seam) at the edge of the tray into a cavity bounded by the tray and a concrete or screed floor. Such undetected moisture ingress behind and beneath sanitary fixtures can cause extensive moisture damage, which is often only noticed very late and then requires costly renovation. Similar moisture ingress has also been observed in built-in bathtubs.

[0004] Since walk-in showers typically lack access panels, and modern built-in bathtubs rarely have conventional access panels, it's usually impossible to detect leaks from the outside. As a result, moisture can sometimes penetrate the floor and walls of a bathroom unnoticed over time. Very often, by the time the moisture becomes visible, significant water damage has already occurred.

[0005] EP 4 001 521 A1 discloses a drain for a sanitary area, in particular for a shower tray, the drain body of which is at least partially transparent, such that at least one housing segment, which defines an outer surface of the drain body, is transparent, wherein the transparent drain body or housing segment is designed to detect impermissible moisture in the vicinity of the outer surface of the drain body. For this purpose, an indicator, for example in the form of a hygroscopic substrate, is attached to the transparent drain body or housing segment, which signals impermissible moisture by a color change. The drain body shown in EP 4 001 521 A1 is provided with a removable, hood-shaped cover that defines a water inlet gap and with a removable dip tube.To check whether there is an unnaturally high level of moisture below a shower tray equipped with this known drain, the cover must first be removed and then the dip tube taken out, since in the mounting position of the cover and the dip tube the transparent housing segment and the indicator for indicating impermissible moisture are visually obscured by the cover and the dip tube.

[0006] With conventional systems of the type mentioned above, it is not currently possible to conveniently signal, for example display, information or measured values ​​to the user in the installed state regarding an unusually high humidity in a cavity surrounding the outer surface of the drain housing, and / or other information or measured values, for example regarding the amount of heat consumed and / or the flow behavior of the water flowing through the drain.

[0007] The invention is based on the objective of creating a technical solution that makes it possible to conveniently signal to a user of a shower or bathtub information about unusually high humidity under the shower or bathtub or other information concerning the water flowing out through the drain of the shower or bathtub.

[0008] This problem is solved by a process with the features specified in claim 1. Advantageous embodiments of the process according to the invention are specified in the dependent claims referring back to claim 1.

[0009] The drainage system according to the invention is characterized in that the drainage housing is provided with at least one electronic sensor, wherein the cover has a signaling device which is equipped for optical and / or acoustic signaling of a state of a drainage environment or of the drainage system detected by means of the sensor, and / or a signal transmission device which is equipped for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by means of the sensor.

[0010] The drainage system according to the invention enables the user of a shower or bathtub to be informed early and conveniently about unusually high humidity levels in the shower or bathtub, as well as other information concerning the water flowing through the drain. For this purpose, the drain housing is equipped with at least one electronic sensor capable of detecting the humidity level of the surrounding area or any other condition of the shower or bathtub drain relevant to the user. The respective information can be conveniently signaled to the user by means of the signaling device, which is part of the removable, preferably hood-shaped, cover of the drain. Alternatively or additionally, the respective information can be conveniently signaled by means of a signaling device located remotely from the drain.For this purpose, the cover of the drain according to the invention optionally includes said signal transmission device, which is equipped for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by the sensor to the signal device located remotely from the drain.

[0011] The at least one electronic sensor of the drain housing of the drain according to the invention can, for example, be designed as a resistive or capacitive sensor. Furthermore, the at least one electronic sensor can be powered by an external power supply via a power cable. Alternatively, the at least one electronic sensor can be powered by a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery, arranged in the drain according to the invention.

[0012] In an advantageous embodiment of the drain according to the invention, it comprises a rechargeable electrical voltage source (battery), the cover being provided with a receiver coil for inductively charging the rechargeable electrical voltage source. This embodiment enables a simple and reliable power supply for the at least one electronic sensor. Disassembly of the cover for replacing a battery with a new one or for charging the rechargeable electrical voltage source is not required. To charge the rechargeable voltage source (battery), the drain cover, in which the receiver coil is integrated, can be removed from the drain housing and placed on a suitable charger.After charging is complete, the cover is reattached to the drain housing, for example, by snapping it onto the drain housing or by inserting it into the drain housing. Alternatively, a suitable charger can be placed on the drain cover, which houses the integrated receiver coil, to recharge the rechargeable power source (battery). During inductive energy transfer, the charger remains in physical contact with the cover.

[0013] Wireless, inductive energy transfer according to the aforementioned embodiment of the invention offers several advantages over conventional charging via cable. For example, inductive energy transfer eliminates the need for an electrical charging socket, thus avoiding problems related to wear and tear on plug contacts caused by repeatedly connecting and disconnecting a charging cable. In particular, the design of the cover of the inventive drain, which is optimized for inductive energy transfer, enables a particularly reliable, waterproof encapsulation of the rechargeable electrical voltage source and the at least one sensor. The elimination of the electrical charging socket also prevents problems related to the ingress of water and dirt.

[0014] Preferably, the receiver coil integrated into the cover of the inventive process is configured for resonant inductive coupling to transfer energy between a charger (as transmitter) and the inventive process (as receiver) for inductive charging of the rechargeable electrical voltage source. In this embodiment of the inventive process, the charging of the rechargeable battery (accumulator) preferably occurs according to the so-called Qi standard. The charger (transmitter) and the process (receiver) can thus exchange data during inductive charging to ensure optimal energy transfer. The transmitter modulates the transmission field. The receiver uses an RFID-like technology to transmit data to the transmitter.

[0015] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the hood-shaped cover of the drain according to the invention is designed for wireless data transmission via radio, preferably via Bluetooth or WLAN.

[0016] As already indicated above, a further advantageous embodiment of the drain according to the invention can be specifically characterized in that the at least one electronic sensor is designed as a sensor for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing, or, in the case of several electronic sensors, comprises a sensor for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing. The corresponding sensor can also be referred to as an electronic moisture sensor. This embodiment provides a technical solution for signaling to the user of a shower or bathtub early and conveniently about unnaturally high humidity levels in the shower or bathtub.

[0017] The detected moisture, for example, is moisture exceeding a predefined measured value. The at least one electronic moisture sensor enables convenient monitoring of a cavity located beneath a shower tray or bathtub for moisture ingress, which, if undetected, can lead to significant long-term building damage. As explained in more detail below with reference to an accompanying drawing, this design provides a means of monitoring for elevated moisture levels without requiring the removal of a drain cover or the removal of water seals, thus making it particularly convenient for maintenance technicians or users of the drain according to the invention.

[0018] A further advantageous embodiment of the process according to the invention provides that its signaling device includes a light source that emits light depending on the state detected by the sensor, preferably light in a state-specific color. For example, the signaling device can switch on or activate the light source only when the electronic sensor has detected a defective state of the process environment or the process itself. The activation of the light source can, for example, occur intermittently, similar to a flashing light. This embodiment of the process according to the invention also includes embodiments in which the signaling device controls the light source in such a way that the light source emits light of different colors in a color-changing sequence, wherein, for example, a specific light color signals a normal state and another light color signals a defective state of the process environment or the process itself.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the hood-shaped cover comprises at least one light source, for example in the form of a light ring, for indicating states relating to the drainage system according to the invention. These states, which can be indicated by the light source, can in particular include the current operating time of the drainage system, the drainage capacity or blockage of the drainage system, and / or the water level or drying out of a trap of the drainage system.

[0020] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, an inspection opening is formed in a base area of ​​the drain housing, which allows access to an area outside the drain housing and is provided with a rod- or tube-shaped closure part that can be detached from the inside of the drain housing, wherein the closure part is designed for a watertight closure of the inspection opening, and wherein the at least one electronic sensor, preferably a moisture sensor, is at least partially mounted in the closure part.

[0021] This design of the drain according to the invention makes it possible to insert an inspection device, e.g., the probe of an endoscope camera, through the inspection opening of the drain housing and to check the area below a bathtub or shower tray for moisture ingress. For this purpose, the removable sealing element, designed to create a watertight seal for the inspection opening, is removed and, after the inspection is complete, reattached to the inspection opening to create a watertight seal. This allows, for example, a more precise inspection of a shower tray to determine where moisture is entering a cavity bounded by the shower tray and a concrete or screed floor. If necessary, countermeasures such as replacing a damaged sealant joint can be initiated, and in particular, the cavity beneath the shower tray can be dried without extensive disassembly of the shower tray.

[0022] According to a further embodiment of the invention, particularly for improving security against vandalism, the detachable rod- or tube-shaped locking element is preferably designed such that it can only be installed and removed using a special tool. This special tool can, for example, be in the form of a socket wrench. The special tool can, for example, have one end with which it can be positively and rotationally secured to the locking element. Furthermore, the special tool can have an opposite or second end designed to be watertightly connected to the inspection opening of the drain housing.The special tool is preferably also tubular in shape, allowing a probe of an endoscope camera to be inserted through the tool, which is watertight connected to the inspection opening, into the area below the drain housing and thus below a bathtub or shower tray. The tubular special tool is preferably dimensioned so that, when connected watertight to the inspection opening of the drain housing, it projects upwards beyond the drain housing. In this state, water can normally flow through the drain housing for inspection purposes without water penetrating the tubular special tool. This allows for even better testing of the area below a bathtub or shower tray for leaks and the sealing joints under real-world usage conditions.

[0023] In a further advantageous embodiment, the base of the drain housing has a collar projecting upwards into the housing, the collar defining a connection point for the force-fit and / or form-fit attachment of the closure element. The upward-projecting collar allows for a particularly stable mechanical connection between the inspection opening and the closure element, and facilitates a simple and reliable watertight seal of the inspection opening. Furthermore, the upward-projecting collar can define a section of a fluid channel (wastewater channel) which, in conjunction with the base of the drain housing, contributes to high drainage capacity. The base preferably transitions into the collar and into an outer wall of the drain housing surrounding the collar via rounded (concave) grooves.

[0024] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one electronic sensor for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing is connected to a vertically adjustable, preferably spring-loaded, contact foot, wherein preferably at least one sensor probe projects downwards from the contact foot. This allows the moisture sensor to be easily and variably adjusted to different vertical distances between a floor area to be monitored for moisture inflow and the drain housing, which is vertically spaced from the floor area. The vertically adjustable contact foot of the moisture sensor can also be described as a movable pressure piece that enables height compensation.If the vertically adjustable contact foot of the moisture sensor is (preferably) spring-loaded, the moisture sensor automatically adjusts to the respective vertical distance between the floor area to be monitored and the drain housing. The at least one sensor probe projecting downwards from the contact foot ensures reliable contact between the floor area to be monitored and the moisture sensor. Preferably, the moisture sensor has at least two sensor probes projecting downwards from the contact foot, which are horizontally spaced apart. One of the at least two sensor probes can be subjected to a test current that is harmless to humans. This current is detected by the other sensor probe when the floor area to be monitored, which is inherently non-conductive, becomes electrically conductive due to an inflow of moisture.

[0025] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is characterized in that the at least one electronic moisture sensor and / or the contact foot are telescopically designed. This allows the moisture sensor to be variably adjusted to different vertical distances between a floor area to be monitored for moisture inflow and the drain housing, which is vertically spaced from the floor area. Due to the telescopic design of the moisture sensor or contact foot, the drain according to the invention can be adapted to different installation heights and floor thicknesses of the respective shower tray.

[0026] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides that the hood-shaped cover of the drain is height-adjustable, preferably continuously height-adjustable. This allows the vertical position of the top of the cover to be optimally adapted to a funnel-shaped or concave shape of the base area of ​​the shower tray surrounding the drain opening, so that the top of the cover is then essentially flush with the top of the shower tray base.

[0027] In the interest of sustainability, and in particular energy conservation, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the at least one electronic sensor is designed to measure the temperature of water flowing through the drain over time and to determine the amount of heat consumed based on the measured water temperature; or, if the drain according to the invention has several electronic sensors, it comprises one sensor for measuring the temperature of water flowing through the drain over time and to determine the amount of heat consumed based on the measured water temperature. This allows the user of a shower tray (shower base) equipped with a suitably designed drain to be conveniently notified when they have consumed a certain amount of heat while showering, thus motivating them to save energy.In this context, a further embodiment of the process according to the invention is characterized in that the at least one electronic sensor or temperature sensor is connected to a processor which activates the signaling device when the determined amount of heat consumed reaches or exceeds a predetermined amount. The temperature sensor can, for example, be implemented in the form of a thermocouple (e.g., PT1000) or an NTC thermistor.

[0028] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the hood-shaped cover of the drain according to the invention has an optical display for showing the water temperature recorded over time, wherein this display qualitatively indicates the water temperature recorded by means of temperature-specific colors or a color change, e.g. from blue to red, and / or numerically by displaying temperature values.

[0029] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the drain according to the invention, the drain housing has a water seal, wherein the at least one electronic sensor is designed as a sensor for detecting the water level, or, in the case of multiple electronic sensors, comprises a sensor for detecting the water level. This embodiment is based on the idea of ​​using the drain cover to detect the water level in the trap, for example by capacitive measurement or by resistance measurement using distributed electrodes, and to signal a critical, i.e., too low, water level visually and / or audibly.Accordingly, a further embodiment of the inventive process provides that the at least one electronic sensor is connected to a processor which activates the signaling device and / or the signal transmission device when the detected level of the water seal reaches or falls below a predetermined level. A user of the process, informed by a corresponding signal, can then raise the water seal level to a predetermined maximum value, for example by operating the shower inlet valve for a certain period of time or by otherwise introducing a sufficient quantity of water into the drain. This allows for timely prevention of a temporary failure of the odor trap function due to evaporation of the water seal.

[0030] The electronic sensor for detecting the level of the sealing water, in particular for detecting the fill level of the drain housing, is based, for example, on an alternating current measurement or resistance measurement via electrically conductive rings integrated into the drain housing. Alternatively, the electronic sensor for detecting the fill level of the drain housing or the level of the sealing water can be a sensor designed for capacitive measurement or guided radar measurement.

[0031] A further advantageous embodiment of the process according to the invention is characterized in that the hood-shaped cover has a signal receiving device designed for wireless reception of control commands. This embodiment is based on the consideration of integrating the process into a control and / or monitoring system in a simple and convenient manner, wherein the process is preferably equipped with its own electrical voltage source (battery), particularly preferably a rechargeable electrical voltage source, to supply power to an electrical / electronic component integrated into the process, such as a light source, a signal transmitter, and / or a sensor. The control system can, for example, be configured as a control system for activating a light source and / or an acoustic or optical signal transmitter integrated into the hood-shaped cover.The integrated light source can, for example, be designed as ambient lighting. Alternatively or additionally, in this configuration, the monitoring system can be configured to activate an electronic humidity sensor, a temperature sensor, and / or a water level sensor, particularly a water seal level sensor, integrated into the drain. A central or decentralized processor unit of the control and / or monitoring system, which wirelessly transmits control commands to the signal receiver of the hood-shaped cover, either triggered by a user or automatically, can be located in the building space where the drain is installed or in another room of the building.

[0032] A further advantageous embodiment of the process according to the invention provides that the hood-shaped cover is equipped with a light sensor, the light sensor serving to activate and / or control a light source connected to the cover when darkness or twilight prevails in the vicinity of the process. This allows for an exceptional form of ambient lighting. The light source can emit colored light, monochrome light, or various light colors in a time-varying sequence.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one electronic sensor of the drain housing can be switched on or activated by means of a manually operated switch (switching element) or alternatively by automatic switching. The manually operated switch is preferably integrated into the hood-shaped cover. The switch can, for example, comprise a temperature-dependent sensor (resistor), in particular an NTC thermistor.

[0034] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention comprises a system comprising the inventive process, preferably in one of the embodiments mentioned above, and a flushing device for carrying out a hygienic flush, wherein the flushing device is characterized by at least one inlet for connecting the flushing device to at least one supply line for introducing drinking water, at least one outlet for connecting the at least one inlet to a water discharge line for discharging the introduced drinking water, at least one tub inlet or shower outlet for connecting the at least one inlet to a tub inlet or shower line, at least one valve arrangement for introducing drinking water through the at least one inlet and for discharging drinking water through the at least one outlet and / or the at least one tub inlet or shower outlet, and a control system.wherein the control system, depending on at least one control signal, preferably a control signal triggered upon detection of a drop below a predefinable water seal level in the drain housing, actuates at least one valve arrangement for performing a hygienic flush such that the valve arrangement allows drinking water from the supply line to enter through the at least one inlet and discharges it at least partially, preferably substantially completely, through the at least one outlet. This embodiment of the invention is based on the consideration that the drain according to the invention can advantageously be combined with an electronic water fitting, in particular an electronic water mixing fitting, as disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2022 121 748 A1.to perform hygienic flushing. The drain according to the invention can wirelessly exchange and interact with a building automation system and / or an electronic water fitting, in particular an electronic water mixing fitting, via a data communication interface integrated in its hood-shaped cover, regarding the water level in the trap.

[0035] Stagnation and unsuitable operation can impair the drinking water quality in the pipes and devices of a drinking water installation through the proliferation of microorganisms or through increased concentration of dissolved components of the materials of the devices or pipes, so that the requirements placed on drinking water are no longer met.

[0036] The system comprising the inventive process, preferably in one of the above-mentioned embodiments, and a flushing device of the type mentioned above, creates a sanitary system which simplifies compliance with drinking water hygiene and offers a structurally advantageous way to comply with drinking water hygiene.

[0037] Preferably, the control system of the invention comprises or is connected to communication means, so that data stored as part of a log can be transmitted to a server or a network, in particular a drinking water management system or a building management system. The log can include, for example, temperature profiles of the drinking water present in the at least one supply line, usage times of the shower, in particular flow times through the at least one shower outlet, usage times of the hygiene flush, in particular flow times through the at least one drain outlet, number and duration of hygiene flushes performed, temperature and frequency of hygiene flushes performed at an elevated temperature, usage intervals of the shower device and / or hygiene flush, times when a predefined water level is undershot, and possible error messages.

[0038] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention comprises a system comprising the drain according to the invention, preferably in one of the aforementioned embodiments of the drain, an electronic water inlet valve, preferably in the form of a water inlet mixing valve, a timer, and a processor for determining the current drainage rate of the drain. The processor determines the current drainage rate, taking into account the time since the water inlet valve was switched off and the current level of the water seal. This current drainage rate is signaled by means of the signaling device and / or a further signaling device, at least when it falls below a predetermined lower limit. This embodiment of the invention makes it possible to detect a blockage of the drain or of a connected drain pipe at an early stage through said signaling.

[0039] The invention is explained below with reference to a drawing illustrating several exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a perspective top view of a shower tray installed flush or almost flush with a tiled floor with a drain according to the invention; Fig. 2 a vertical sectional view of the shower tray installed in the tiled floor along section line II-II in Fig. 1 with drain housing and drain pipe; Fig. 3 a section of a shower tray with a drain according to the invention mounted on a floor opening of the shower tray and a section of a cavity floor located under the drain, in a vertical sectional view; Fig. 4 the drain mounted on the floor opening of the shower tray made of Fig. 3 as well as the section of the raised floor, in vertical sectional view and perspective view; Fig. 5 the drain mounted on the floor opening of the shower tray made of Fig. 3and the section of the cavity floor, in a perspective top view; Fig. 6 a hood-shaped cover of a drain according to the invention, in a perspective view; and Fig. 7 an embodiment of a sanitary installation with a drinking water supply line that supplies a terminal tap, e.g. a shower head, with drinking water, a flushing device for carrying out a hygienic flush and a drain according to the invention.

[0040] The Figure 1 and 2 Figure 2 shows a shallow shower tray 2, which can also be called a shower base, and is installed in a recess 1 in the floor 10 of a sanitary area, e.g., a bathroom. The in Fig. 2The floor 10, shown schematically in cross-section, is typically formed from screed 10.1. The top surface of the shower tray 2 is essentially flush with the top surface of a floor covering 11 arranged on the screed 10.1, which here is, for example, made of tiles.

[0041] The shower tray 2 is supported by a tray support (not shown) which rests on the floor surface 10.2 of the recess 1. The shower tray 2, together with the recess 1, defines a cavity 12. The floor surface 10.2 of the recess 1 defines a sealing plane against the underlying structure, which is, for example, a concrete floor 10.3.

[0042] To drain shower water, the shower tray 2 has a bottom opening 2.1 to which a drain 3 is attached. As is particularly evident in Fig. 2As can be seen, the shower tray 2, as is known per se, is shaped such that it has a gentler slope from its outer edges towards the floor opening 2.1. A drain body 3.1 is arranged on the underside of the shower tray 2, in the area of ​​the floor opening 2.1, as part of the drain 3. The drain body 3.1 is attached to the floor opening 2.1 by means of fastening screws (not shown) and a fastening ring (fastening flange) 9, which is supported on the upper edge of the floor opening 2.1. The drain body 3.1 has a drain outlet 3.2 with an external thread, to which a drain pipe 7 is connected by means of a union nut with an interposed ring seal (not shown).

[0043] To prevent moisture (shower water) from penetrating into the cavity 12 under or behind the shower tray 2, a ring seal 8 is arranged at the floor opening 2.1 between the underside of the shower tray 2 and the top of a circumferential mounting flange of the drain housing 3.1 (see figure). Fig. 3 ). In addition, the circumferential joint 2.2 between the outer edge of the shower tray 2 and the adjacent floor covering 11 is sealed watertight with a sealant, typically silicone or the like, to prevent moisture (shower water) from penetrating into the cavity 12 behind and under the shower tray 2 (see Fig. 1 ).

[0044] The watertight sealed joint 2.2 – also known as a sealing joint or silicone seam – is a particularly critical area, as such joints often become leaky over time. These joints 2.2 are therefore also referred to as maintenance joints. Furthermore, leaks in such sealing joints 2.2 can sometimes occur due to faulty manufacturing.

[0045] If wastewater or moisture enters the cavity 12, which is limited by the floor recess 1 and the shower tray 2, unnoticed via a defective ring seal 8 on the drain housing 3.1 or via a defective sealing joint 2.2, this can cause extensive moisture damage, which is often only noticed late and then requires a high level of renovation work.

[0046] In Fig. 2A situation is outlined in which significant moisture has entered cavity 12. Due to this moisture ingress, water is present on the floor surface 10.2 of recess 1 or cavity 12, or the floor surface 10.2 of cavity 12 exhibits unusually high humidity, with the air between the damp floor or water level and the underside of the tray exhibiting high humidity, which in Fig. 2 indicated by dot hatching (a multitude of small dots).

[0047] The drain housing 3.1 defines a siphon-like odor trap. For this purpose, the drain housing 3.1 is equipped with a dip tube 6, which is inserted into the drain housing from above. The dip tube 6 can be removed from the drain housing 3.1, particularly for cleaning the drain 3.

[0048] Furthermore, the drain body 3.1 is provided with a removable cover 5 on its upper side. The cover 5 is designed, for example, as a circular, slightly upwardly curved hood (drain cover) which rests on the mounting ring 9 via spacers 5.1 arranged on its underside. When the drain 3 is installed, the spacers 5.1 define a water inlet gap 14 through which shower water can flow into the drain body 3.1 or initially into the dip tube 6. For horizontal positioning of the cover (drain cover) 5, it has downwardly open, sleeve-shaped retainers on its underside, which positively and frictionally engage the upwardly projecting heads of the mounting screws of the mounting ring (mounting flange) 9 of the drain body 3.1.

[0049] According to the invention, the drain housing 3.1 is provided with at least one electronic sensor (40), wherein the cover 5 has a signaling device 43, which is equipped for optical and / or acoustic signaling of a condition of a drain environment or of the drain 3 detected by means of the sensor, and / or a signal transmission device 47, which is equipped for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by means of the sensor (40).

[0050] For example, the at least one electronic sensor with which the drain housing 3.1 is equipped is an electronic moisture sensor 40, by means of which the cavity 12 below the shower tray 2 can be monitored for moisture ingress without extensive disassembly of the drain housing 3.1 or even disassembly of the shower tray 2.

[0051] For this purpose, the drain housing 3.1 is preferably provided with an inspection opening 3.4 which, in the installed state of the drain housing 3.1, provides access to an area outside the drain housing and thus to an area below the installed shower tray 2. The inspection opening 3.4 is provided with a closure element 3.5 that can be removed from inside the drain housing 3.1. The inspection opening 3.4 is preferably formed in a base area 3.6 of the drain housing 3.1.

[0052] A connecting seat 3.8 is formed at the inspection opening 3.4 for the force-fit and / or form-fit connection of the closure part 3.5. In the case of the Figures 3 and 4In the illustrated embodiment, the drain housing 3.1 has a bottom section 3.6 with a collar 3.7 projecting upwards into the drain housing 3.1, wherein the collar 3.7 defines the connection seat 3.8 for the force-fit and / or form-fit connection of the closure part 3.5. The connection seat 3.8 is designed, for example, as a push-fit seat, threaded seat, or bayonet fitting, wherein either the closure part 3.5 or the collar 3.7 defining the inspection opening or drain housing section has a ring seal 3.9, for example, an O-ring mounted in an annular groove.

[0053] The sealing element 3.5 is designed as a rod- or tube-shaped sealing plug. The sealing plug 3.5 has at least one moisture sensor 40, which is connected to a signaling device 43 for acoustic and / or optical signaling of detected moisture and / or to a signal transmission device for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by the moisture sensor 40. The signal transmission device is, for example, configured for a radio connection for signal output, such as a WLAN or Bluetooth connection.

[0054] The at least one moisture sensor 40 has a vertically adjustable, preferably spring-loaded contact foot 41, from which at least one sensor probe projects downwards. The moisture sensor 40 can be variably adjusted to different vertical distances between the floor area to be monitored for elevated moisture (floor surface 10.2) and the drain housing 3.1. If, according to a preferred embodiment, the vertically adjustable contact foot 41 is spring-loaded, the moisture sensor 40 automatically adjusts to the respective vertical distance between the floor area 10.2 to be monitored and the drain housing 3.1. A compression spring (helical spring) is designated by 49. The vertically adjustable contact foot 41 can also be referred to as a movable pressure piece.

[0055] As in the Figures 3 and 4As shown, the moisture sensor 40 has at least two sensor probes (electrodes) 42 projecting downwards from the vertically movable contact foot (pressure piece) 41, which are horizontally spaced apart from each other. The sensor probes 42 are electrically conductive and, for example, made of stainless steel. One of these sensor probes 42 is subjected to a test current that is harmless to humans to detect elevated moisture levels. If the floor area to be monitored (floor surface 10.2) below the inspection opening 3.4 of the drain housing 3.1 is damp, this floor area 10.2 is electrically conductive. Thus, the second or at least one further sensor probe 42 of the moisture sensor 40 can detect whether the floor area 10.2 to be monitored has elevated moisture levels.

[0056] The respective measurement signal of the humidity sensor 40 can be signaled directly at the outlet 3 or at a remotely located signaling device. For example, a signaling device for acoustic signaling of detected increased humidity can be integrated into the rod- or tube-shaped sealing plug 3.5. Additionally or alternatively, a signaling device 43 for optical signaling of detected humidity can be integrated into the hood-like cover 5. The optical signaling device 43 can, for example, comprise an LED light source that emits light of a specific color, e.g., red light, and / or intermittent light signals at a high frequency when increased humidity is detected. For this purpose, the optical signaling device 43 can, for example, have a light guide visible on the top of the hood-like cover 5.Alternatively, the light guide can also be arranged concealed beneath the hood-like cover 5, with the respective light signal of the optical signaling device 43 being visible as indirect light through the water inlet gap 14, which is defined by the cover 5 and the drain housing 3.1. The light guide associated with the LED light source is preferably ring-shaped.

[0057] The hood-like cover 5, which together with the drain housing 3.1 defines a water inlet gap 14, is preferably equipped with a rechargeable electrical voltage source (not shown) and with a receiver coil 70 for inductive charging. The receiver coil 70 is part of a charging system, which is preferably designed according to the Qi standard. Alternatively or additionally, the rechargeable electrical voltage source can also be arranged in the sealing part 3.5, which is designed as a rod- or tube-shaped sealing plug. Furthermore, the Figures 3 and 4 It can be seen that the hood-shaped cover 5 is mounted in the rod- or tube-shaped sealing plug 3.5 in a height-adjustable manner. A horizontally circumferential annular groove is formed on the inside of the upper end of the rod- or tube-shaped sealing plug 3.5, into which an elastic ring seal 50, e.g., an O-ring, is inserted. The ring seal 50 provides a liquid-tight seal for the annular gap defined by the sealing plug 3.5 and a rod- or tube-shaped section of a holder 52 inserted therein, which is connected to the underside of the cover 5.

[0058] To activate the at least one electronic sensor (40) integrated in the drain housing 3.1, the hood-shaped cover 5 has an electronic switching element (switch) 54. The switching element can, for example, have a temperature-dependent sensor (resistor), in particular an NTC thermistor. The activation / switching state of the switching element 54 or sensor 40 is visually indicated to the end user of the drain 3, for example by an illuminated on symbol 56 (see Figure 56). Fig. 6 ).

[0059] For a more detailed examination of the cavity 12 with regard to moisture ingress, the removable cover 5 and the detachable closure 3.5 can be removed, and an endoscope camera can be inserted into the cavity 12 through the access opening 3.4. A desiccant (not shown), for example, an absorbent strip of fabric, can also be introduced into the cavity 12, which is closed at the top by the shower tray 2, through the access opening 3.4. The clear width or inner diameter of the access opening 3.4 is, for example, in the range of approximately 30 to 50 mm.

[0060] The receiver coil 70, the switching element 54 with the light-emitting switch-on symbol 56 in the switch-on state of the switching element or sensor, and a ring-shaped light guide 43.1 coupled to the LED light source are preferably arranged under a transparent or semi-transparent protective cover, for example semi-transparent film.

[0061] A light sensor (photocell) can, for example, be arranged under the transparent or semi-transparent protective cover (film). The light sensor is designed to activate a light source connected to or integrated into the cover 5 when darkness or twilight prevails in the vicinity of the drain 3.

[0062] The embodiment of the invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawing. Rather, numerous variants of the drain 3 according to the invention are conceivable, which also make use of the invention specified in the claims even with a design that differs from the drawing. For example, the drain 3 according to the invention can also be designed as a drain for a bathtub. In this case, the drain housing 3.1 is preferably part of a drain and overflow fitting and accordingly has a connection for an overflow pipe. Furthermore, the drain according to the invention can be designed as a floor drain for a level-entry shower without a shower tray 2. For example, the drain according to the invention can be designed in the form of a so-called shower channel.

[0063] In particular, the process 3 according to the invention can also be combined with a flushing device for carrying out a hygienic flush, as disclosed in DE 10 2022 121 748 A1, and form a corresponding system. The disclosure content of DE 10 2022 121 748 A1 is hereby fully incorporated into the present description by reference.

[0064] In Fig. 7 Figure 1 shows a sanitary installation with a drinking water supply line 118, which supplies a terminal tap 104 with drinking water. The terminal tap 104 could be, for example, a hand shower or – as in Fig. 7 The figure shown is a shower head. Reference numeral 106 denotes a shower tray of a shower, which is provided with a drain (floor drain) 3 according to the invention, through which used drinking water can flow into a drainage line 110. A water flow direction resulting from a specific valve configuration is shown in Fig. 7 Marked by arrows. Number 112 designates an actuating or operating unit by means of which a drinking water supply to the tap 104 can be triggered, controlled and stopped.

[0065] Fig. 7Figure 1 schematically shows an embodiment of a flushing device 102, which is particularly suitable for a bathtub or shower. The flushing device 102 has two inlets 107 and 109, with inlet 107 being designed as a cold water inlet 107 for connecting a cold water supply line 108 and inlet 109 as a hot water inlet 109 for connecting a hot water supply line 111. The flushing device 102 also has a drain outlet 112 for connecting the inlets 107 and 109 to a water drain line 114 for discharging the incoming drinking water. The flushing device 102 also has a first shower outlet 116 for a shower head to connect the inlets 107 and 109 to a shower head line (drinking water supply line 118) and a second shower outlet 120 to connect the inlets 107 and 109 to a hand shower.

[0066] The two inlets 107 and 109, the outlet 112, and the shower outlets 116 and 120 preferably each have an external thread for connection to the inlet lines 108 and 111, the water outlet 114, and / or the respective shower lines 118. Furthermore, the two inlets 107 and 109 are preferably connected to a valve arrangement 126 by means of substantially flexible hoses 124.

[0067] The valve arrangement 126 comprises at least one mixing unit 128 for mixing drinking water supplied from the cold water supply line 108 and the hot water supply line 111, so that tempered drinking water can be supplied at an outlet 130 of the mixing unit 128. The mixing unit 128 may also include the control unit 129. The mixing unit 128 may, for example, be designed as an electronic or as an electromechanical mixing unit 128. Furthermore, the valve arrangement 126 includes a valve element 132 connected to the mixing unit 128. The control unit 129 is connected to the valve element 132 and can, in particular, control via the valve element 132 whether the drinking water admitted through the inlets 107 and 109 is to be discharged via the drain outlet 112 as part of a hygiene flush or whether the admitted drinking water is to be made available to a shower user via the shower outlets 116 and 120.The drain outlet 112 and the shower outlets 116 and 120 are preferably also connected to the valve element 132 by means of flexible hoses 124.

[0068] To transmit a sensor signal to the control unit 129, the flushing device 102 also includes a communication means 134, which is specifically designed to be wirelessly connected to a network and / or a server, e.g., via WLAN. The communication means 134 is connected to the control unit 129 by means of a cable 136 via a power supply 138 and the valve element 132.

[0069] When the communication device 134 receives a sensor signal from a sensor located in the same network, the communication device 134 forwards the sensor signal to the controller 129. Depending on the sensor signal, the controller 129 can generate a control signal to actuate the valve arrangement 126 in such a way that a hygienic flush is performed. In particular, for this purpose, drinking water is introduced through the inlets 107 and 109 and discharged again via the outlet 112.

[0070] Furthermore, the drain 3 according to the invention can also have an electronic sensor other than the humidity sensor 40 described above, which is designed to detect a condition of the drain 3 or the condition of the drain environment. This at least one electronic sensor can, in particular, be a sensor for detecting the fill level or level of the water seal in the trap or a sensor for detecting the temperature of the water (wastewater) flowing through the drain 3 over time.

[0071] The in Fig. 7The sketched mixing unit 128 can also be referred to as an electronic water inlet valve 128, in particular as an electronic water inlet mixing valve 128. Preferably, the control unit 129 is equipped with a timer and a processor (not shown) for determining the current flow rate of the drain 3. The processor is designed to determine the current flow rate, taking into account the time since the water inlet valve (mixing unit 128) was switched off and the current water level in the seal in the drain 3, and to signal this flow rate by means of the signaling device 43 and / or another signaling device, at least when it falls below a predetermined lower limit.

[0072] To detect the level of the sealing water, the drain housing 3.1 has, for example, at least two electrically conductive contacts 140, which are arranged on the inside of the drain housing 3.1 above the lower end of the dip tube 6 inserted into the drain housing. The contacts 140 are part of a sensor circuit and are spaced apart from each other. The contacts 140 are arranged such that, at a predetermined level of the sealing water that ensures proper odor sealing, the contacts 140 extend into the sealing water, thus closing the circuit via the sealing water. If the level of the sealing water falls, for example due to evaporation, to a level below one of the contacts 140 or below at least both contacts, the circuit is interrupted and the sensor thus detects a corresponding drop below the predetermined level of the sealing water.

Claims

1. Drain (3) for a sanitary area, in particular for a bathtub or shower tray (2) or as a floor drain, with a drain body (3.1) having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, which is provided above the inlet opening with a removable, preferably hood-shaped cover (5), wherein the cover (5) limits a water inlet gap (14), characterized by the fact that the drain housing (3.1) is provided with at least one electronic sensor (40), the cover (5) comprising a signaling device (43) which is equipped for optical and / or acoustic signaling of a condition of a drain environment or of the drain detected by means of the sensor (40), and / or a signal transmission device (47) which is equipped for wireless transmission of measurement signals generated by means of the sensor (40).

2. Procedure according to claim 1, characterized bya rechargeable electrical voltage source, wherein the cover is provided with a receiver coil (70) for inductive charging of the rechargeable electrical voltage source.

3. Execution according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that which includes at least one electronic sensor (40) for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing or, in the case of multiple electronic sensors, a sensor (40) for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing (3.1).

4. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that the signaling device (43) has a light source which emits light depending on the state detected by the sensor, preferably light in a state-specific color.

5. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact thatin a base area of ​​the drain housing an inspection opening (3.4) is formed which allows access to an area outside the drain housing (3.1) and is provided with a rod- or tube-shaped closure part (3.5) which can be detached from the inside of the drain housing (3.1), wherein the closure part (3.5) is designed to provide a watertight closure of the inspection opening (3.4), and wherein the at least one electronic sensor (40) is at least partially mounted in the closure part (3.5).

6. Procedure according to claim 5, characterized by the fact that the bottom area (3.6) of the drain housing (3.1) has a collar (3.7) projecting upwards into the drain housing (3.1), wherein the collar (3.7) defines a connecting seat (3.8) for force-fit and / or form-fit connection of the closure part (4.5).

7. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by the fact thatthe at least one electronic sensor (40) for detecting moisture in an area below the drain housing (3.1) is connected to a vertically adjustable, preferably spring-loaded contact foot (41), wherein at least one sensor probe (42) preferably protrudes downwards from the contact foot (41).

8. Procedure according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that which at least one electronic sensor (4) and / or the contact foot (41) are designed to be telescopic.

9. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact thatwhich includes at least one electronic sensor for recording the temperature of water flowing through the outlet (3) over time and for determining the amount of heat consumed based on the recorded water temperature, or, in the case of several electronic sensors, includes one sensor for recording the temperature of water flowing through the outlet over time and for determining the amount of heat consumed based on the recorded water temperature.

10. Procedure according to claim 9, characterized by the fact that which has at least one electronic sensor connected to a processor which then activates the signaling device (43) when the determined amount of heat consumed reaches or exceeds a predetermined amount of heat.

11. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by the fact thatthe drain housing (3.1) has a water seal, wherein the at least one electronic sensor is designed as a sensor for detecting the level of the water seal or, in the case of several electronic sensors, includes a sensor for detecting the level of the water seal.

12. Procedure according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that which has at least one electronic sensor connected to a processor which then activates the signaling device (43) and / or the signal transmission device (47) when the detected level of the barrier water reaches or falls below a predetermined level.

13. Procedure according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the fact that the hood-shaped cover (5) has a signal receiving device which is equipped for wireless reception of control commands.

14. Execution according to any one of claims 1 to 13, in particular in conjunction with claim 4, characterized by the fact thatthe hood-shaped cover (5) is provided with a light sensor, the light sensor serving to activate and / or control a light source connected to the cover when darkness or twilight prevails in the vicinity of the drain.

15. System comprising a drain (3) according to one of claims 1 to 14 and a flushing device (102) for carrying out a hygienic flush, wherein the flushing device (102) is characterized by- at least one inlet (107; 109) for connecting the flushing device (102) to at least one inlet line (108; 111) for letting in drinking water, - at least one outlet (112) for connecting the at least one inlet (107; 109) to a water drain line (114) for discharging the let-in drinking water, - at least one bath inlet or shower outlet (116; 120) for connecting the at least one inlet (107; 109) to a bath inlet line or shower line (118), - at least one valve arrangement (126) for letting in drinking water through the at least one inlet (107; 109) and for discharging drinking water through the at least one outlet (112) and / or the at least one bath inlet or shower outlet (116;120), and - a control unit (129), wherein the control unit (129) actuates at least one valve arrangement (126) to perform a hygienic flush, depending on at least one control signal, preferably a control signal which is triggered when a fall below a predefinable seal water level in the drain housing (3.1) is detected, such that the valve arrangement (126) admits drinking water from the inlet line (108; 111) through the at least one inlet (107; 109) and discharges it at least partially, preferably substantially completely, through the at least one outlet (112).

16. System according to claim 15, characterized by the fact that the controller (129) includes communication means (134) for connecting the controller (129) to a network, in particular to a drinking water management system or a building management system, and / or a server.

17. System, in particular according to claim 15 or 16, comprising a drain (3) according to claim 11 or 12, an electronic water inlet fitting (128), preferably in the form of a water inlet mixing fitting, a time measuring device and a processor for determining a current drainage rate of the drain (3), wherein the processor determines the current drainage rate taking into account the time since a shutdown of the water inlet fitting and the current level of the seal water, which is signaled by means of the signaling device (43) and / or a further signaling device at least when it falls below a predetermined lower limit.

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