Vacuum Wastewater Device and Method

Abstract

The vacuum wastewater device (100) comprises a wastewater collection container (102) in the form of a vacuum toilet, a vacuum wastewater fitting (202), a wastewater valve (204) connected between the wastewater collection container (102) and the vacuum wastewater fitting (202), at least one electrical final control element (206a, 206b, 208) configured to change the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (100), and a control unit (106) configured to receive a message (902) including a specification of a target state according to a network communication protocol and to activate the at least one electrical final control element according to the target state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various exemplary embodiments relate to vacuum wastewater apparatuses and methods.

Background Art

[0002] For example, various types of wastewater devices have been conventionally used to discharge wastewater in a controlled manner and to agglomerate, such as vacuum toilets, downpipe toilets, or flush toilets. In contrast to flush toilets or downpipe toilets where the discharge of the discharged substance (e.g., wastewater) is driven by gravity or gravitational pressure, in a vacuum toilet, a negative pressure for discharging the discharged substance is applied. Downpipe toilets require less water usage but always require a very large drop, get dirty immediately, and generally have difficulty ensuring high hygiene standards. In contrast, flush toilets are more hygienic but require more water.

[0003] Vacuum toilets are hygienic, reduce water consumption compared to conventional flush toilets, and reduce (or eliminate) the required drop where gravity must act. Thus, vacuum toilets are preferably used in various application fields.

[0004] Such vacuum toilets are advantageous, for example, in small-sized autonomous application areas where little or no drop is available, or in application areas where only a small amount of water is consumed. Examples of such application areas include, for example, means of transportation such as ships, airplanes, trains, or autonomously operated facilities such as hospitals or military facilities.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to various embodiments, it is clearly recognized that vacuum toilets or vacuum wastewater devices are generally also of interest for other application areas such as, for example, shopping centers or apartment houses. Especially in areas with low water storage capacity, this enables the introduction of water-saving and hygienic toilets where conventional water-scarce recommended toilets could not be used.

[0006] In this regard, in the case of a large number of vacuum toilets, it is recognized that more effort is required to regularly inspect, maintain, or plan their maintenance work. This is because, for example, the complexity of vacuum toilets has increased and the use of vacuum toilets that almost exclude trouble shooting by laypersons has increased. Therefore, in order to perform maintenance or trouble shooting, often highly costly technicians are required. The vacuum toilet cannot be used until the technician arrives. Therefore, a large number of personnel who regularly inspect the vacuum toilet are required to shorten the period and reduce the frequency of failures.

[0007] According to various embodiments, for example, there are provided a vacuum wastewater device and a method that facilitate the operation of a vacuum wastewater device or a group of a plurality of vacuum wastewater devices so as to promote failure recognition and / or activation of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0008] Diagnosis of a vacuum toilet or each vacuum toilet for a failure source can clearly be performed remotely, for example, by means of a user's mobile phone or by means of a service provider. Similarly, countermeasures against possible failure causes can be started by remote operation.

[0009] Remote control type vacuum toilets according to various embodiments enable remote operation of various maintenance operations without disconnecting or removing the toilet. Such maintenance work saves service time and facilitates maintenance. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of this description, and specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced are shown by way of illustration. In this context, directional terms such as "above", "below", "front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", etc. are used in relation to the directions of the illustrated figure(s). Since the components of the embodiments can be arranged in various different orientations, the directional terms are used for purposes of explanation and are in no way limiting. It is apparent that other embodiments can be utilized and structural or logical changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. It is clear that the features of the various exemplary embodiments described herein can be combined with each other, unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, the following detailed description should not be construed in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.

[0012] Within the scope of this description, the terms "connected", "connected", and "connected" are used to describe both direct and indirect connections (e.g., ohmic and / or conductive connections, e.g., conductive connections), direct or indirect connections, and both direct or indirect couplings. In the drawings, the same or similar elements are appropriately labeled with the same reference numerals.

[0013] According to various embodiments, the term "coupled" or "coupling" can be understood to mean, for example, direct or indirect, (e.g., mechanical, hydrostatic, and / or electrical) connection and / or interaction. Multiple elements can be coupled to each other along, for example, an interaction chain, such that an interaction (e.g., a signal) can be transmitted therealong. For example, two elements coupled to each other can interact with each other, e.g., mechanically, statically, and / or electrically. According to various embodiments, "coupled" can be understood to mean, for example, a mechanical (e.g., physical) coupling by direct physical contact. The coupling can be configured to transmit mechanical interactions (e.g., forces, torques, etc.).

[0014] The following describes various steps and details of the method according to various embodiments. It can be understood that the matters described (for example, individual steps of the method) can be similarly implemented by hardware (for example, hard-wired circuits) and / or software (for example, code segments or entire applications). For example, an application (also called a program) having corresponding code segments (for example, program code) and executable by a processor and / or by circuit means having a processor can be provided or made available. The processor (or circuit) can be, for example, part of a computing device (for example, a mobile wireless device or a fixed computing system). The computing system can have, for example, a plurality of processors that are centrally located within a physically coherent group or are distributedly connected to each other by network means. Similarly, the code segments or applications can be executed on the same processor or, some of them, can be distributed among a plurality of processors that communicate with each other by network means.

[0015] The information processing components of this method can be executed, for example, by a control device (also called a control unit). Further, for example, the components of the device can be activated by means of a control device for executing this method.

[0016] The term "control device" (also referred to as a control unit) can be understood as any kind of entity that implements logic, which can include, for example, a circuit and / or a processor that can execute software stored in a storage medium, firmware, or a combination thereof and can output an application based thereon. The control device can be configured, for example, as a device for an operating function to control the operation of an entity (for example, its operating point) by means of a code segment (for example, software).

[0017] Control can be understood as the intended effect on an entity (e.g., a device or a process). Here, the current state of the entity (also referred to as the actual state) can be changed according to the specification (also called the target state). Adjustment can be understood as control, and furthermore, the state change of the entity due to malfunction is offset. The controller can clearly have a forward control path and can clearly implement a sequence controller that converts an input variable (e.g., a specification) into an output variable. However, the control path can also be part of a control loop, and as a result, a regulator is implemented. The regulator has a gradual influence on the output variable with respect to the input variable, in contrast to simply a forward sequence controller, which is achieved by the control loop (feedback). In other words, in addition to or instead of a controller, a regulator can be used, or a regulator can be activated instead of or in addition to a controller.

[0018] The state of the entity (also referred to as the operating point or the working point) can be defined by one or more operating parameters of the entity. Its actual value corresponds to the actual state of the entity, and its target value (also called the guide value) corresponds to the target state of the entity. In a regulator, the actual state (e.g., confirmed based on measurement) is compared with the target state, and one or more operating parameters are affected by the corresponding final control elements so that the deviation of the actual state from the target state is minimized. The state of the entity (e.g., a device or a process) can be specified as a point (also referred to as the operating point or the working point) within a space spanning the changeable parameters (also called the operating parameters) of the entity. Thus, the state of the entity is a function of the respective values of one or more operating parameters and thus represents the state of the entity. Imperial The state of an entity (e.g., a device or a process) can be specified, for example, as a point (also referred to as the operating point or the working point) within a space spanning the changeable parameters (also called the operating parameters) of the entity. Thus, the state of the entity is a function of the respective values of one or more operating parameters and thus represents the state of the entity.

[0019] For example, in a controller, the actual state is affected in that one or more operating parameters of the entity (hereinafter also referred to as operating variables) are changed / affected, for example, by a final control element. In a regulator, the actual state is compared with the target state, and the entity is affected by means of a corresponding manipulated variable (final control Element to be used) such that the deviation of the actual state from the target state is minimized. The actual state can be ascertained based on the measurement of one or more operating parameters (hereinafter also referred to as control variables), for example, using a measuring element.

[0020] The term "final control element" (also referred to as actuator) can be understood as a component configured to affect the actual state in that the final control element is actuated. The final control element can convert an instruction (so-called actuation) output by a control device into a mechanical movement or a change in a physical variable such as pressure or temperature. The final control element, for example an electromechanical converter, can be configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy (for example by movement), for example in response to an actuation. Examples of final control elements are: valves (or other fluid-mechanical switches), pumps, electrical switches (for example for actuating or de-actuating components).

[0021] The term "processor" can be understood as any type of entity that enables the processing of data or signals. The data or signals can be handled, for example, according to at least one (i.e., one or more) specific functions executed by the processor. A processor can have or be formed from analog circuits, digital circuits, mixed-signal circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), integrated circuits, or any combination thereof. Other types of embodiments of each function described in more detail below can also be understood as processors or logic circuits. It is clear that one or more of the method steps described in detail herein can be executed (e.g., implemented) by a processor by means of one or more specific functions executed by the processor. Similarly, a method step can be represented using a code segment configured to execute the method step when executed by a processor.

[0022] The plurality of fluid lines of the vacuum wastewater device can be fluidly coupled to each other using, for example, valves, seals, couplings, containers, etc., so as to form a fluid system. For example, the vacuum wastewater device has one or more containers, at least one of which is configured as a main container (also referred to as a wastewater collection container).

[0023] The vacuum wastewater device can further have one or more joints or joint parts (also referred to as operating joints), for example, a vacuum wastewater joint, a control gas joint, and / or a supply water joint. The joint can be coupled, for example, using screws or flange flanges, to a mating joint that is adapted to the joint. The joint can have a sealing structure (e.g., a sealing surface and / or a groove for accommodating the seal), and it can be used to seal the connection to the outside. The vacuum wastewater joint can be connected, for example, to a vacuum wastewater system and can be sealed, for example, in a vacuum-tight state against the outside. In other words, the vacuum wastewater joint can be configured to create a vacuum-tight connection.

[0024] The container can be understood herein as a hollow body. The container can have a container body, and its interior (also referred to as a cavity) is exposed using an opening (also referred to as a container inlet). Optionally, the container can have a cover (also called a container cover) that is connected to the container body, for example, using a pivot bearing. The pivot bearing can provide multiple positions for the cover, and as a result, the cover can be displaced between these positions. When joined together (i.e., when the cover is in the closed position), the container body and the cover can circumferentially partition the interior. In other words, the cover can cover the opening in the closed position. In the open position of the cover, the interior can be exposed using the opening. The container body can have one or more container walls that bound the interior of a plurality of sides (e.g., at least five). Optionally, the interior can be narrowed in a direction away from the opening. Further, the container can have an outlet (also called a container outlet) that is fluidly connected to the container inlet using the cavity.

[0025] The main container is clearly the end of an air or ambient open fluid system where wastewater (e.g., containing discharged feces and other substances) is collected and accumulated before being drawn from the main container using negative pressure. Thus, the main container can have, for example, at least three openings that are fluidly connected to each other using its interior.

[0026] Examples of main containers include toilets (also simply referred to as bowls), urinals, shower trays, bathtubs, etc. In particular, in the case of toilets or urinals, the aspects provided herein can simplify their operation. For simplicity, toilets will be referred to hereinafter. However, the matters described can equally apply to other wastewater collection containers.

[0027] The fluid system provided can be configured to fluidly connect the main container to the operating joint or, alternatively, to cancel (i.e., interrupt) the fluid connection. This cancellation or establishment of the fluid connection can be reversibly performed, for example, by interconnected valves. Examples of operating fittings can include a vacuum wastewater joint configured to discharge wastewater drawn from the main container, a water supply joint configured to provide water (also referred to as feed water) supplied to the main container, an exhaust joint configured to discharge gas (e.g., having odoriferous substances) drawn from the container, and / or a control gas joint configured to supply control gas used to control a fluid-mechanical valve. The supply water is mixed within the main container with other substances supplied from the inlet (e.g., solids such as feces), thereby forming wastewater. The gas generated here can be drawn through the exhaust interface.

[0028] Generally, a valve can enable at least two components of a fluid system, to which the valve is connected in between, to be fluidly connected to each other, so that these components can exchange fluids (having gases and / or liquids) with each other. The valve can also enable cancellation of the fluid connection, so that the exchange of fluids is blocked. Establishment and / or cancellation of the connection can occur when the valve is activated or (for example, alternately) fully switched by being activated. The connection can be established in the open state of the valve and cancelled in the closed state of the valve. For example, it can be switched reversibly, separately, or continuously (for example, assuming an intermediate state) between the closed state and the open state (also called the positioning process). The duration for which the valve is in the open state can be referred to as the open state duration. The duration for which the valve is in the closed state can be referred to as the closed state duration.

[0029] Activation of the valve can be performed, for example, by an electrical control signal and / or by a fluid-mechanical control signal (for example, a pressure change) that can be supplied to the control input of the valve. Generally, a fluid (including, for example, gases and / or liquids or those formed therefrom) can be a carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal. For example, a fluid-mechanical control signal (for example, a pressure change) can be transmitted by a gas as a carrier. Alternatively or additionally, an electrical control signal can be converted into a fluid-mechanical control signal (in the case of a gas as a carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal, also referred to as an electro-pneumatic control mechanism). Hereinafter, for easier understanding, reference is made to a gas as a carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal. Also, the matters described can be similarly applied to a liquid as a carrier of the fluid-mechanical control signal.

[0030] The control of components of a pneumatic device (e.g., a pneumatically actuated valve) using an electrical component (e.g., an electrically operated valve) can be understood as an electro-pneumatic control mechanism. As a control means for a pneumatic component that executes a positioning process (clearly a state change) of the pneumatic component, a pressure difference can be applied to the pneumatic component. In order to reverse the positioning process, the pressure difference can be changed or canceled. For example, in order to cancel the pressure difference, pressure equalization can be performed to reverse the positioning process. The value of the pressure difference at which the positioning process of the pneumatic component (e.g., a valve) is performed is also referred to as the switching pressure. The switching pressure can be related to a reference pressure, e.g., a control pressure and / or atmospheric pressure.

[0031] The application of the switching pressure or pressure equalization can be performed by an electrically controllable valve, i.e., a valve that can be actuated by an electrical signal. The electric valve can be actuated, for example, by a control device that supplies a corresponding electrical control signal to the valve or each valve. In contrast to only a pneumatic control mechanism, the electro-pneumatic control mechanism enables significantly more complex functions, especially by using an electronic circuit, e.g., a programmable control device, a shorter reaction time, and / or a smaller structural form.

[0032] An electric valve (also referred to as an electrical valve) can include an armature (e.g., having a flap, slide, etc.) and an electromechanical actuator having a control input. The electromechanical actuator can be configured to transmit mechanical movement to the armature in response to an electrical control signal, as a result of which the cross-sectional area of the fluid connection is reduced or enlarged. The electromechanical actuator can have, for example, an electromagnet or at least one coil, and these coils are generated by the generation of a magnetic field that transmits the mechanical movement between the actuator and the armature.

[0033] A fluid-mechanical valve (e.g., an air valve) can include an armature (e.g., having a flap, slide, etc.) and a fluid-mechanical actuator including a control input, e.g., a membrane, piston, etc. The fluid-mechanical actuator can convert a fluid-mechanical pressure change into a mechanical motion (or a change thereof), and transmit the mechanical motion to the armature so as to configure the cross-sectional area of the fluid connection to be reduced or enlarged.

[0034] A sensor (also referred to as a detector) can be understood as a transducer configured to qualitatively or quantitatively detect its surrounding characteristics corresponding to the type of sensor, such as physical or chemical characteristics and / or material state. The measured variable is a physical variable applied to the measurement by the sensor. Depending on the complexity of the surroundings of the sensor to be measured, the sensor can only be configured to distinguish between two states of the measured variable (also called a measurement switch), or to distinguish between two or more states of the measured variable, or to quantitatively detect the measured variable. A measurement switch (also called a switch as part of the sensor) can only distinguish, for example, whether the measured variable meets a criterion (e.g., exceeds or is below a threshold value), or does not meet the criterion. An example of a measurement switch is a pressure sensor configured to detect whether the pressure as the measured variable is a negative pressure. Another example of a measurement switch is a fill level sensor, which is configured to detect whether the fill level (also referred to as the level) as the measured variable has reached the position of the sensor, for example, to detect whether it is in contact with water. An example of a measured variable quantitatively detected is, for example, fluid flow rate (e.g., passing flow rate), and its actual state can be output by the sensor as an actual value. Examples of fill level sensors with measurement switches include vibrating fork fill level switches (including vibrating forks), limit switch level meters (including limit switches), capacitive switch fill level sensors (including capacitive switches), and float switch fill level switches (including float switches). Examples of measurement switches include optical level meters, fill level electrodes, radar level meters, capacitive level meters, and ultrasonic level meters.

[0035] The sensor can be part of a measurement chain having a corresponding infrastructure (including, for example, a processor, a storage medium, and / or a bus system, etc.). The measurement chain can be configured to activate a corresponding sensor (such as a water sensor, a pressure sensor, and / or an activation sensor), process its detected measurement variable as an input variable, and based on that, provide an electrical signal as an output variable representing the state of the input variable at the time of detection. The measurement chain can be realized or be made to be realized, for example, by a control device.

[0036] The network described in this specification can include or be formed from, for example, a local network (such as a local area network (LAN), a wireless LAN (WLAN), or a personal area network (PAN), such as a wireless PAN (WPAN), such as a Bluetooth network), or a non-local network (such as a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), or a global area network (GAN)), which can be distinguished, for example, according to range. The network can include or be formed from, for example, a wireless network, such as a mobile wireless network, or a wired network, which can be distinguished by the type of transmission. Also, the network can include, for example, a cellular wireless network (such as an ad-hoc mode IEEE802.11 type of WLAN, a Bluetooth network, or other cellular mobile wireless networks), or can be formed from a cellular wireless network, for example, according to a mobile wireless standard of the third generation (3G), the fourth generation (4G), the fifth generation (5G), or LTE (also referred to as 3.9G). Also, the network can have a plurality of different types of sub-networks connected to each other.

[0037] The transmission of information items (information transmission) can be performed according to various embodiments in accordance with a network communication protocol (network CP). Information transmission can include transmitting, at least transmitting, or at least generating a message containing information according to network CP. Network CP can explicitly refer to an agreement for information transfer among two or more parties. In the simplest form, network CP can be defined as a set of rules that establish the syntax, meaning, and synchronization of information transmission. The (one or more) communication protocols used (for example, one or more network protocols) can basically be arbitrarily selected and can be set according to the OSI (Open System Interconnection) reference model (however, it is not necessary to set). Any protocol can also be used in each protocol layer. Therefore, for example, a protocol based on WLAN or other wireless-based communication protocols can be used. The transmission of information items by WLAN in this specification can include transmitting a message having information according to the WLAN communication protocol stack. On the transmitting side, at least a message can be generated and transmitted according to the settings. On the receiving side, a message can be received.

[0038] The term "frequency or rate" regarding an event can be understood as a specification regarding the number of occurrences of the event, and thus the result of a counting process over a plurality of events. Generally, frequency can be shown as an absolute number (for example, "5") or a number related to time ("5 times / hour"). Even if the event does not necessarily occur regularly, a numerical value related to a period can be shown as, for example, a frequency (apparently, the average frequency of that period).

[0039] FIG. 1 shows, respectively, in schematic side or cross-sectional views, a vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments. The vacuum wastewater device 100 includes a wastewater collection container 102, a vacuum wastewater joint 202, and a wastewater valve 204 connected between the wastewater collection container 102 and the vacuum wastewater joint 202. Further, the vacuum wastewater device 100 has at least one (i.e., one or more) electromechanical final control elements 216, 206a, 206b.

[0040] The wastewater valve 204 can have an internal extension in the open state that exceeds about 2 cm (centimeters), for example, exceeds about 3 cm, for example, exceeds about 4 cm, for example, exceeds about 5 cm, for example, exceeds about 6 cm, for example, exceeds about 7 cm, for example, exceeds about 10 cm.

[0041] (For example, the or each) electromechanical final control element 216, 206a, 206b can generally be configured to change (e.g., position) the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device. For this purpose, the final control elements 216, 206a, 206b can be configured to change one or more configurable operating parameters (also referred to as operating parameters for simplicity) of the vacuum wastewater device 100.

[0042] Furthermore, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can include a control device 106 configured to receive a message 902 according to a network CP 153. The message 902 can include an instruction according to which at least one electromechanical final control element 216, 206a, 206b is activated or deactivated by the control device 106, or an operating parameter is set, for example, a plurality of final control elements 216, 206a, 206b are activated 151. The control device 106 can be configured to execute the activation of at least one electromechanical final control element 216, 206a, 206b in response to receiving the message 902 according to a network communication protocol 153.

[0043] For example, the control device 106 can be configured to trigger the activation of at least one electromechanical final control element 216, 206a, 206b upon receiving a message 902 according to a network communication protocol. For example, the instruction can indicate that a specific target state is assumed, and the operating function is executed as described in more detail below. Alternatively or additionally, the instruction can indicate that the stored operating parameters of the operating function are updated.

[0044] Generally, this instruction enables the execution of the operating function to be commanded (instructed) from outside the vacuum wastewater device 100. The execution of the operating function can alternatively or additionally be triggered (initiated) by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., autonomously) in response to the actual state based on, for example, events associated with the verified operating function and / or relevant operating functions that match the criteria. Hereinafter, reference is made particularly to instructing the operating function by the message 902. The above matters can equally apply when the operating function is triggered (initiated) by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 itself (e.g., autonomously).

[0045] Examples of configurable operating parameters are as follows: - The inflow of water supplied to the wastewater collection container 102 (also referred to as water inflow) - The control input pressure of the wastewater valve 204 (alternating, for example, between a switching pressure and / or a negative pressure), - The pressure difference (dropping across the valve, for example), - The filling level of the wastewater collection container 102.

[0046] The water inflow can be related to, for example, a plurality of cleaning processes (e.g., the total over a plurality of cleaning processes), and / or to a certain point in time within the cleaning process (e.g., as a rate, i.e., the water inflow rate per unit time) (also referred to as an instantaneous value).

[0047] Other operating parameters can optionally be stored by the control device. Examples of stored operating parameters are as follows: - One or more as time specifications for the positioning processes of the final control elements 216, 206a, 206b, - The reference pressure of one or more fault states, and / or - The reference (e.g., threshold value) of one or more fault states.

[0048] The time specification regarding the positioning process can specify, for example, when the positioning process starts and / or ends (e.g., with respect to another positioning process or a detected event), the period during which the positioning process continues, i.e., the period during which the result of the positioning process is maintained (e.g., the open period or the closed period). The aforementioned periods can, for example, separate two directly consecutive positioning processes from each other.

[0049] Generally, the plurality of final control elements 216, 206a, 206b can be activated together with each other continuously (e.g., sequentially) or independently of each other in order to affect the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device 100. Hereinafter, reference is particularly made to the final control element in the form of a valve. The valve is referred to according to its function for better understanding, such as, for example, a wastewater valve, a control valve, a supply water valve, etc. However, the described matters can equally apply to other types of final control elements or valves.

[0050] FIG. 2 shows the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 200 in a schematic side view or cross-sectional view, respectively. The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a bowl 102 as a container body. The bowl 102 can have an interior 102h and a container inlet 102o that exposes it. Optionally, the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a cover 102d that can alternately cover or expose the container inlet 102o.

[0051] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a pneumatic wastewater valve 204 that is coupled on the outside to a bowl 102 (i.e., the wastewater outlet 104 of the bowl 102). The wastewater valve 204 can be connected, for example, by a wastewater line 2021, between the bowl 102 and the wastewater joint 202.

[0052] The wastewater valve 204, the wastewater outlet 104, the wastewater line 2021, and / or the wastewater joint 202 can have joints (e.g., flanges) with a diameter greater than, for example, about 1 cm (centimeter), such as greater than about 2 cm, such as greater than about 3 cm, such as greater than about 4 cm, such as greater than about 5 cm, such as greater than about 6 cm, such as about 7 cm, such as greater than about 10 cm.

[0053] The interior 102h can have a volume in the range of, for example, from about 5 L (liters) to about 100 L (e.g., from about 5 L) to about 50 L (e.g., less than 20 L).

[0054] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can have one or more electric control valves 206a connected, for example, by corresponding connection lines, between the wastewater joint 202 (e.g., the wastewater line 2021) and the wastewater valve 204 (e.g., its control joint 204). When using a single electric control valve 206a, it can be configured as a three-way valve and can further be connected to a control gas inlet 208. The three-way valve reduces the number of valves required.

[0055] By means of one or more control valves 206a, the wastewater valve 204 can be or can be made fluidly connected to the wastewater joint 202. As a result, the pressure of the wastewater joint 202 can be applied to the wastewater valve 204 (i.e., its control inlet 204), and as a result, the interior 102h is fluidly connected to the wastewater joint 202, i.e., the wastewater valve 204 is opened.

[0056] The pressure of the wastewater joint 202 (also referred to as the discharge pressure) can generally be a negative pressure (in a simplified form also referred to as a vacuum), i.e., a pressure less than the ambient pressure (in a simplified form also called atmospheric pressure) acting on the bowl 102. The gravity of the Earth's atmosphere can be understood as the atmospheric pressure caused by the gravity of the Earth. The discharge pressure can be generated, for example, by a pump connected to the wastewater joint 202.

[0057] By means of one or more control valves 206a, the wastewater valve 204 (e.g., its control joint 204s) can be fluidly connected to or configured to be connected to the control gas inlet 208. As a result, the pressure of the control gas can be applied to the wastewater valve 204, and as a result, the fluid connection between the interior 102h and the wastewater joint 202 is cancelled, i.e., the control gas is in a closed state. The pressure of the control gas (also referred to as the control pressure) can be, for example, atmospheric pressure or a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure (also called overpressure). The control gas can, for example, contain air or can be formed from air.

[0058] When using atmospheric pressure, the control gas inlet 208 can have an end of the line 208 exposed to the atmosphere and optionally a throttle. When overpressure is used, the control gas inlet 208 can have a control gas joint 208. The overpressure can be provided, for example, by a compressor connected to the control gas joint 208 or configured to be provided. What has been described for the control gas inlet 208 can equally be applied to the control gas fitting 208 depending on whether overpressure or atmospheric pressure is used as the control pressure, and vice versa.

[0059] The atmospheric pressure can be different from the overpressure and / or negative pressure by about 0.1 bar or more, for example about 0.2 bar or more, for example about 0.3 bar or more, for example about 0.4 bar or more, for example about 0.5 bar or more, for example about 0.6 bar or more, for example about 0.7 bar or more. Alternatively or additionally, the overpressure can be different from the negative pressure by about 0.1 bar or more, for example about 0.2 bar or more, for example about 0.3 bar or more, for example about 0.4 bar or more, for example about 0.5 bar or more, for example about 0.6 bar or more, for example about 0.7 bar or more. The greater the difference, the more effective it is to draw the waste water out of the interior 102h.

[0060] The vacuum waste water device 100 can have, for example, one or more electric water supply valves 216 connected between the water supply joint 212 (for example, the water supply line 2121) of the bowl 102 and one or more water supply openings 226 by corresponding connection lines. The water supply opening 226 can be the point where water supply flows into the interior 102h when the interior 102h is fluidly connected to the water supply joint 212.

[0061] The vacuum waste water device 100 can further have a control device 106 configured to activate the electric valves 216, 206a. The activation can be performed, for example, according to the discharge sequence as an operating function when the target state represents an empty container 102.

[0062] The discharge sequence can include a first phase (also referred to as a cleaning process in a simplified form), in which the interior 102h (for example, it or each water supply opening 226) is fluidly connected to the water supply joint 212 or becomes fluidly connected, and / or the waste water valve 204 is in a closed state or becomes closed (that is, the control joint 204 of the waste water valve 204 is fluidly connected to the control gas inlet 208). For example, the opening period of the water supply valve 216 (also referred to as the cleaning period) can be used as an operating parameter.

[0063] The discharge sequence can include a second phase, in which the waste water valve 204 is open or becomes open (i.e., the control joint 204 of the waste water valve 204 is fluidly connected to the waste water joint 202) and / or the fluid connection between the water supply joint 212 and the interior 102h (e.g., thereof or each water supply opening 226) is canceled or is to be canceled. The opening period of the waste water valve 204 can be used, for example, as an operating parameter.

[0064] The discharge sequence can include a third phase, in which the waste water joint 202 is closed or is brought to a closed state and / or the fluid connection between the water supply joint 212 and the interior 102h (e.g., thereof or each supply water opening 226) is canceled or is to be canceled.

[0065] Also, as will be described in more detail below, it can also be started according to one or more other operating functions. For starting, the corresponding electrical control signals can be supplied to the control inputs SV1, SV3, SV2 of the electrical valves 216, 206a to be started. If the first phase or the cleaning process is omitted, an emergency discharge sequence is provided as an operating function instead of the discharge (also referred to as emergency discharge). If the second and third phases are omitted, a cleaning process is provided as an operating function (also called toilet cleaning) instead of the discharge sequence. For example, when an intended state is assumed (or when the actual state is changed), starting can be performed according to the operating function. To detect the actual state, the vacuum waste water device 100 can include one or more sensors S1, S2, S3, S4, 302 coupled to the control device 106. Examples of sensors include the start sensor 302, the water sensors S4, S3, and / or the pressure sensors S1, S2.

[0066] One or more first water sensors S4 (e.g., measurement switches) can be configured to detect, for example, the internal water filling level as a measurement variable (hereinafter also referred to as the filling level sensor), i.e., to detect the specifications regarding the amount of waste water within the interior 102h. For this purpose, the or each filling level sensor can be coupled to the interior 102h, for example, (e.g., adjacent thereto). The water filling level can be output, for example, as mass, as volume, or as level height, or as a specification representing this.

[0067] One or more second water sensors S3 can be configured to detect, for example, the inflow of water into the interior 102h, for example, its inflow rate (hereinafter also referred to as the inflow sensor or flow rate sensor), i.e., to detect the specifications regarding the amount or rate of the water supply supplied to the interior 102h. For this purpose, the or each flow rate sensor can be coupled to a fluid line between the water supply connection (e.g., the water supply valve 216) and the interior 102h. The inflow rate can be output, for example, as a standard volume flow rate or a mass volume flow rate, or as a specification representing this.

[0068] One or more first pressure sensors S1 (e.g., measurement switches) can be configured to detect the exhaust pressure as a measurement variable. For this purpose, the or each first pressure sensor S1 can be coupled to a fluid line, for example, between the waste water connection 202 and the control valve 206a.

[0069] One or more second pressure sensors S2 (e.g., measurement switches) can be configured to detect the pressure at the control input 204s of the waste water valve 204 (also called the control input pressure) as a measurement variable, i.e., as the dominant pressure therein. For this purpose, the or each second pressure sensor S2 can be coupled to a fluid line, for example, between the control input 204 and the control valve 206a.

[0070] One or more activation sensors 302 can be configured to detect activation by the user as measured variables, namely their contact and / or the force applied thereby. The discharge sequence can, for example, start when activation of the activation sensor 302 is detected. In other words, activation of the activation sensor updates the target state to an empty container 102. The drive sensor 302 can include, for example, an electrical switch or a physical switch (also called a button), such as a pressure switch and / or a touch sensor.

[0071] Similarly, for example, as detailed below, another operating function can be started when a deviation of the actual state from the target state is confirmed or when a corresponding command is received from the control device 106. One or more countermeasures can also be executed as an operating function, for example, as described in more detail below.

[0072] In one example, the cleaning of the vacuum toilet 100 (also referred to as toilet cleaning) is controlled by the control device 106 and the two-way valve 216 (at SV1). When the user presses the cleaning button 302, the control device 106 opens the water supply valve 216 for a predetermined, for example, storage time, to clean the toilet bowl. After the supply time has elapsed, the water supply valve 216 closes to stop the toilet cleaning.

[0073] Optionally, the container 102 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can have a sheet 224, which has an opening that exposes and / or forms the container inlet 102o, for example, in the same way as and / or in contrast to a cover. Alternatively, the sheet 224 can be an integral component of the container 102. The sheet can have, for example, an ergonomic-shaped frame surrounding the sheet opening.

[0074] The sheet 224 can optionally have a video (not shown) that can be activated by a switch or a terminal. The video can be connected to the inflow joint 212 and configured as an operating function to discharge a water jet into the sheet opening and / or the interior 102h. A corresponding valve can be connected between the inflow joint 212 and the video, which can be activated by the control device 106. Alternatively or additionally, the video can be activated and / or stopped by an electrical final control element (also referred to as a video final control element). Therefore, the time during which water supply is provided by the video (i.e., the time when the final control element of the video is switched) can be used as an operating parameter.

[0075] Figure 3 shows the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 300 in a schematic side or cross-sectional view, which can be configured similarly to the embodiment 200, but has the difference that a plurality of two-way valves are used as the control valves 206a, 206b. This enables, for example, faster switching of the wastewater valve 204 by separate and / or overlapping control signals.

[0076] The first control valve 206a can be connected between the control gas inlet 208 and the wastewater valve 204. The second control valve 206b can be connected between the wastewater joint 202 and the wastewater valve 204.

[0077] In one example, the discharge of the vacuum toilet 100 is controlled by the control device 106 and a plurality of two-way valves SV2, SV3. When the user presses the cleaning button 302, the control device 106 opens the first control valve 206a for a predetermined, for example, stored time (also referred to as the discharge period), and the vacuum reaches the wastewater valve 204 (also referred to as the output valve), opening the wastewater valve 204. After the passage of the discharge period, the first control valve 206a closes and the second control valve 206b opens. Then, this valve applies the ambient pressure to the wastewater valve 204, thus closing the wastewater valve 204.

[0078] Instead of the two two-way valves SV2 and SV3, a three-way valve (see Fig. 2) can also be used. Alternatively, as will be described later, the two-way valve 206a can also be used with a throttle behind it.

[0079] FIG. 4 shows the vacuum wastewater device 100 according to various embodiments 400 in a schematic side or cross-sectional view, which can be configured similarly to embodiments 200 or 300, but is different in that the control gas inlet 208 can have a throttle 208d (also referred to as a control gas throttle), for example, a throttle valve. The control gas throttle 208d can be configured to provide a fluid resistance. The control gas throttle 208d can, for example, make it possible to omit the first control valve 206.

[0080] The control gas throttle 208d can also be optionally used in the presence of a plurality of two-way valves SV2, SV3 (see Fig. 3) or a three-way valve SV2 (see Fig. 2).

[0081] Hereinafter, with respect to various components of the method, a control device is referred to. The control device may be the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100, or a control device implemented by a computing device external to the vacuum wastewater device 100 configured to command (also referred to as instruct) the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 by a message. The latter clearly implements, for example, a remote control device that communicates with the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 via a network, and thus performs remote monitoring, diagnosis, and / or control (also referred to as remote control, remote diagnosis, or remote monitoring, respectively).

[0082] For example, a malfunction (also referred to as a disturbance) of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can be confirmed by the control device based on the confirmed actual state. Furthermore, measures related to the confirmed malfunction can be executed to eliminate the malfunction or at least mitigate them.

[0083] FIG. 5 shows, for example, the confirmation of functional anomalies of the method according to various embodiments in the tabular summary 500 implemented by a control device. In the tabular summary 500, examples of functional anomalies 1 to 10 are described, and the sensors are marked with "Y" based on the ability to confirm each defect (i.e., related to the functional anomaly). If the confirmed actual state of the vacuum waste water device 100 deviates from the target state based on this (i.e., by the sensors), one or more functional anomalies (e.g., the cause of the failure) can be considered and confirmed to be associated with the sensors. The actual functional anomalies can be selected from those that take into account (i.e., can be distinguished from each other) the functional anomalies according to so-called additional specifications, as described in more detail below. The reference parameters described below (e.g., reference time, reference, threshold, and / or reference pressure) can optionally be used as stored operating parameters that are updated according to the message 902 received by the control device 106.

[0084] The criteria related to misactivation (for confirming functional anomalies) described below can clearly indicate that the operating parameters or measured variables do not match or are difficult to match the operating readiness specifications. As an example, the criteria can be met when the threshold related to the functional anomaly is exceeded or not met, and are referred to below for easier understanding. The matters described can also be similarly applied to other conditions that define when the criteria related to each functional anomaly are met.

[0085] The first functional anomaly ("vacuum supply failure") may clearly include that the exhaust pressure is insufficient, for example, to switch the waste water valve and / or discharge the waste water. The first functional anomaly can be confirmed when the difference between the discharge pressure and the reference pressure is below a threshold value (also called the pressure difference threshold value).

[0086] Optionally, when it is confirmed (e.g., as an additional specification) that the difference between the discharge pressure and the reference pressure falls below a threshold value over a predetermined time, e.g., the storage period (also called the reference time period), a first functional abnormality can be confirmed. The reference time can be longer than, for example, the duration of the emptying sequence. The elapse of the reference time can be clearly implemented with a timer.

[0087] A second functional abnormality ("vacuum control failure") can include, for example, insufficient negative pressure as the control input pressure to switch the wastewater valve. When the difference between the control input pressure and the reference pressure falls below the pressure difference threshold value and it is confirmed (e.g., as an additional specification) that the control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204 is fluidly connected to the wastewater joint 202, a second functional abnormality is confirmed. The second functional abnormality can be caused, for example, by the second control valve 206b being damaged (e.g., defective) if it is provided and / or there being a leak between the first control valve 206a and the wastewater valve 204.

[0088] The pressure difference threshold value for the first and / or second functional abnormality can be, for example, the switching pressure of the wastewater valve 204 or higher. Alternatively or additionally, the reference pressure for the first and / or second functional abnormality can be atmospheric pressure or the control pressure.

[0089] When the reference pressure for the second functional abnormality is the exhaust pressure, for example, the pressure difference dropping across the first control valve 206a is confirmed as a difference by, for example, a plurality of pressure sensors S1, S2 (when the first control valve 206a is in the open state). Next, if the corresponding (clearly lower) pressure difference threshold value exceeds (e.g., 10% of the exhaust pressure), the criterion can be met.

[0090] The third functional abnormality ("failure of the second control valve") may include, if the second control valve 206b exists, that it is damaged (e.g., defective). For this purpose, similar to the second functional abnormality, the difference between the control input pressure and the reference pressure can be detected. In contrast to the second functional abnormality, in the case of the third functional abnormality (e.g., as an additional specification), it can be confirmed that the change in the difference during the switching of the control valve 206b is below a (significantly low) threshold value. Therefore, it is possible to distinguish the third failure state from the second failure state. For example, it can be clearly checked whether the switching of the second control valve 206b causes the necessary pressure change at the control input 204s of the wastewater valve 204. For example, a check of the readiness for operation (i.e., the switching function) of the second control valve 206b can be performed.

[0091] The fourth functional abnormality ("filling level undershoot") indicates, for example, that the filling level is insufficient for complete discharge. The fourth functional abnormality can be confirmed when it is confirmed (e.g., as an additional specification) that the filling level inside 102h is below the filling level threshold value and after the cleaning process has ended. The filling level threshold value may be, for example, the position of the first water sensor S4. For example, a check of the residual water inside 102h can be performed. In this way, for example, control and / or adjustment of the filling level can be implemented.

[0092] The fifth functional abnormality ("failure of the water supply valve") may include that the switching of the water supply valve 216 is damaged (e.g., defective) if it exists. The fifth functional abnormality can be confirmed when the change in the inflowing water is below the threshold value and it is confirmed that this is the case during the switching of the water supply valve 216 (e.g., as an additional specification). For example, a check of the readiness for operation (i.e., the switching function) of the water supply valve 216 can be performed.

[0093] The sixth functional abnormality ("leakage of the water supply valve") may include the presence of a leak (e.g., a defect) if the water supply valve 216 exists. The sixth functional abnormality can be confirmed when it is confirmed that the inflow of water exceeds a threshold value and (e.g., as an additional specification) it is confirmed that the water supply valve 216 is closed (i.e., while the fluid connection is clearly interrupted). For example, the leakage rate of the water supply valve 216 can be checked.

[0094] The seventh functional abnormality ("leakage of the bidet") may indicate that the bidet (also called "washlet") is damaged (e.g., defective). The seventh functional abnormality can be confirmed when the inflow of water exceeds a threshold value and (e.g., as an additional specification) it is confirmed that this occurs while the bidet is closed and / or operating, or after the bidet has been closed and / or operated. For example, the leakage rate of the bidet can be checked.

[0095] The eighth, ninth, and / or tenth functional abnormalities may include an overfill level. For example, when the water supply valve 216 is closed and the fill level inside 102h exceeds the fill level threshold (also referred to as the fill level overshoot), the eighth, ninth, and / or tenth functional abnormalities can be confirmed.

[0096] When the fill level decreases when performing an emergency discharge (clearly, an evacuation sequence without a cleaning process, e.g., to relieve a clogged toilet), and / or when it is additionally confirmed that the fill level repeatedly exceeds after an emergency discharge has occurred, the eighth functional abnormality ("failure of the water supply valve") can be confirmed (e.g., as an additional specification).

[0097] If the water supply volume drops below the threshold after the emergency wastewater operation, and as a result, it is additionally confirmed (for example, as an additional specification) that the filling level is reached before the emergency discharge is carried out, the 9th functional abnormality ("clogging") can be confirmed. Therefore, it can be clearly confirmed that the contents of the container 102 are not completely discharged, or that the discharge is too little. This is because little water supply is required to reach the previous filling level. The threshold value can correspond to the volume of the container 102, for example, until the filling level in the filling level sensor is reached.

[0098] The 10th functional abnormality ("failure of the discharge mechanism") can be confirmed if it is additionally confirmed (for example, as an additional specification) that the filling level meets the standard (for example, continuously) during and / or after the emergency discharge. If it is confirmed that there is a leak between the wastewater valve 204 and the first control valve 206a, and / or there is a leak between the wastewater fixture 202 and the first control valve 206a, the wastewater mechanism may be damaged. If it is confirmed (for example, as an additional specification) that the switching of the wastewater valve 204 is damaged (for example, defective), the first control valve 206a is damaged (for example, defective or leaking), there is a leak between the wastewater valve 204 and the first control valve 206a, and / or there is a leak between the wastewater joint 202 and the first control valve 206a, the discharge mechanism may be damaged.

[0099] This method can optionally include performing one or more countermeasures as operating functions in response to whether a functional abnormality is confirmed or which functional abnormality is confirmed. This method can optionally include setting the vacuum wastewater device 100 to an alarm state as an operating function in response to whether a functional abnormality is confirmed.

[0100] Alternatively or additionally, one or more messages 902 can be generated by the control device 106 according to the network CP. The message 902 can include, for example, specifications regarding the confirmed actual state, specifications regarding the confirmed functional abnormalities, specifications regarding the activated alarm state, and / or specifications regarding one or more countermeasures executed. Since the message 902 can be addressed to one or more receivers (e.g., computing devices), as will be described in more detail below, it can also be received by, for example, this receiver. The generation of the message 902 can be initiated, for example, independently (e.g., autonomously) by the control device 106 in response to the confirmed actual state and / or the confirmed functional abnormalities. Alternatively or additionally, the generation of the message 902 by the control device 106 can be initiated in response to a message 902 received from the control device 106 that includes an instruction (also referred to as reading of the control device) to provide the corresponding (one or more) specifications.

[0101] The above mechanism can clearly realize diagnosis as an operating function including confirmation of possible functional abnormalities, confirmation of additional specifications, and / or confirmation of actual functional abnormalities.

[0102] FIG. 6 shows, for example, a plurality of countermeasures for methods according to various embodiments in a tabular summary 600 implemented by a control device. This method can include, for example, executing one or more countermeasures in response to whether a functional abnormality has been confirmed or which functional abnormalities have been confirmed, for example, in response thereto.

[0103] For example, one or more messages 902 can be received by the control device 106 according to the network CP, which indicates (by corresponding instructions) the countermeasures to be executed in response to and / or based on the actual state and / or functional abnormalities. This applies when the remote operating device confirms the actual state or a failure.

[0104] Alternatively or additionally, the countermeasure can be initiated independently (e.g., autonomously) by, for example, the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100 in response to and / or based on the actual state and / or malfunction confirmed by the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100. Hereinafter, the latter case will be referred to. The same applies when a countermeasure is instructed from a remote operation device.

[0105] The vacuum wastewater device 100 can be set to an alarm state (also referred to as activation of the alarm state) in response to the confirmation of the first, second, third, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunction. Activation of the alarm state in response to the confirmation of the first malfunction is performed, for example, after the elapse of a reference time.

[0106] In response to the seventh malfunction, deactivation or non-operation of the video can occur. Nevertheless, if it is confirmed that the filling level further increases, i.e., more water is supplied, for example, in the case of a leak, activation of the alarm state can occur.

[0107] In response to the fourth malfunction, for example, by opening the water supply valve 216 (similar to the cleaning process), a fluid connection to the water supply joint 212 inside 102h can be established. Thus, water can be supplied to the inside 102h (also referred to as replenishment). The amount of water supplied can be controlled and / or adjusted, for example, based on the detected filling level.

[0108] In response to the activation of the alarm state, emergency drainage can optionally occur for the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunctions. Emergency drainage can include fluidly connecting the inside 102h to the wastewater joint 202 without performing a cleaning process (also referred to as dry drainage).

[0109] In response to the activation of the alarm state, deactivation of the video can optionally occur for the eighth, ninth, and / or tenth malfunctions.

[0110] Optionally, for example, for a plurality of cleaning processes and / or over a predetermined period (e.g., a plurality of days, weeks, or months), for example, for each cleaning process, it is possible to check the specification (also referred to as consumption specification) regarding the water consumption of the vacuum waste water device 100. The consumption specification can be checked by the inflow sensor S3. For example, this method can include generating a message according to a network CP including the specification regarding the consumption specification.

[0111] FIG. 7 shows a system 700 in a method according to various embodiments in a schematic communication diagram. The term "system" can be understood as a set of interacting entities. The set of interacting entities can include, for example, at least one (i.e., one or more) physical component, at least one network CP, and / or at least one application (e.g., stored in a storage medium). Examples of physical components include the control devices 106, one or more computing devices 604, 606, and the storage medium.

[0112] Each or the computing device 604 (also referred to as a receiver device) can optionally be registered by or be made to be registered by the system 700, for example, using a database stored in a storage medium. Examples of the computing devices 604, 606 include a computing system 606 (e.g., a server, a computer, etc.) and a mobile wireless device 604. According to various embodiments, the mobile wireless device can be not only a mobile phone, for example, a feature phone or a smartphone, but also a pager, a tablet, a laptop, a smartwatch, or a hybrid form composed of these device types.

[0113] Computing system 606 and / or control device 106 can be connected by a wired connection to the network, for example, in accordance with Ethernet and / or RS-485 (industry standards for physical interfaces). Alternatively or additionally, control device 106 and / or mobile wireless device 604 can be connected to network 602 by a wireless connection (also referred to as a wireless link), for example, by a wireless local area network.

[0114] System 700 can have a connection to network 602 (also referred to as a network connection), for example, an Internet connection. By means of network 602, the physical components of system 700 can be coupled to each other for communication, that is, they can exchange items of information. Below, reference is made to messages and their generation and transmission. It can be understood that messages can be generated and / or transmitted in accordance with the respective network CP of the network connection. A network CP configured for wireless communication (also referred to as a wireless network CP) can, for example, conform to a cellular mobile wireless network to which mobile wireless device 102 is connected, for example, a WLAN, a GSM network, a GPRS network, a UMTS network, and / or an LTE network. The wireless network CP can define details of, for example, the network layer, the security layer, and / or the bit transmission layer (in accordance with the OSI model). Messages can be transmitted, sent, and / or received, for example, on a layer above this, for example, the session layer or the application layer.

[0115] Below, for easier understanding of the Internet connection, that is, reference is made to system 700 having a connection to the Internet 602 (the worldwide network of computer networks) or as part of such a connection. However, the matters described can equally apply to other constellations or networks.

[0116] System 700 can include a mobile wireless device 604. The mobile wireless device 604 can be configured to communicate wirelessly (i.e., via radio) with the network 602 according to, for example, a wireless network CP. Thus, messages can be exchanged between the network 602 and the mobile wireless device 604 according to the wireless network CP.

[0117] Instead of or in addition to the mobile wireless device 604, the system 700 can include a computer system 606. The computing system 606 can have a communication connection 303 to the network 602 according to a wired network CP. Thus, messages can be exchanged between the network 602 and the computing system 606, for example, according to the wired network CP. Further, the system 700 can include one or more control devices 106 having a communication connection 305 to the network 602.

[0118] That or each control device 106 can be connected to the network 602 according to a wired network CP and / or a wireless network CP. That or each control device 106 can be optionally registered by the system 700, or be to be registered, for example, by a database stored in a storage medium. For example, a plurality of vacuum wastewater devices 100 can have a communication connection 305 to the network 602 and / or can be registered in the system 700 by their control devices 106. That or each computing device 604, 606 can include an application.

[0119] The application may be, for example, a local application installed on (e.g., embedded in a non-volatile manner in an operating system) computing devices 604, 606 and / or a local application executed thereby. Alternatively or additionally, the application may be a web application. The web application can be executed, for example, on another computing system 304, and only its user interface can be presented on the web browser of the mobile wireless device 604 (e.g., in the same way as remote access). The application can be configured to communicate with the control device 106 (e.g., the application layer), for example, to transfer one abnormal message to or from the control device 106, to read the control device 106, and / or to instruct the control device 106. Also, depending on the communication direction, the application can receive a message from the control device 106 or send a message to the control device 106. The message sent from the control device 106 can be received by one or more computing devices 604, 606.

[0120] Depending on how the method is executed, for example, one or more components can be omitted in the system 700 in the mobile wireless device 604 and / or the computing systems 606.

[0121] The mobile wireless device 604 (e.g., its application) can communicate with the control unit via, for example, a wireless network connection (e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, etc.). The mobile wireless device 604 can cause the application to be downloaded, for example, from the storage medium of the computing system 606.

[0122] The application of the mobile wireless device 604 can provide one or more of the following of yesterday: display (e.g., list), instruction, and / or reading of the vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the wireless network; optionally, display of their actual states (e.g., available state, alarm mode activation state, usage state, etc.), optionally, display of their location descriptions, optionally, display of the signal strength of the wireless network, and / or optionally, display of the time point of the last use (e.g., date) of the vacuum wastewater device 100. For example, each vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the wireless network (also called the wireless network) can be displayed and / or accessed (i.e., read and / or instructed) thereon. Depending on the configuration of the system, the vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the system can be associated with the registered wireless network so that it can be grouped according to each wireless network, for example, or can be associated. The vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the wireless network to which the mobile wireless device 604 is also connected is hereinafter abbreviated as the visible vacuum wastewater device 100.

[0123] The application of the computing device 606 can provide one or more of the following functions: display of instruction and / or reading of the vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the system (e.g., list); optionally, display of their actual states (e.g., ready for use, alarm mode activation, in use, etc.), optionally, display of the signal strength of the wireless network, and / or optionally, display of the time point of the last use (e.g., date) of the vacuum wastewater device 100. For example, each vacuum wastewater device 100 registered in the system can be displayed and / or accessed thereon.

[0124] The application of the computing device 606 and / or the mobile wireless device 604 can provide one or more of the following sub-functions, for example, by accessing (i.e., remote access) the control device 106 of the vacuum wastewater device 100: - Reading and / or changing the current configuration of the vacuum wastewater device 100; - Reading and / or changing the location description of the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., the cabin "xxx"); - The location description can be viewed within a list of visible vacuum wastewater devices 100 for easy orientation; - Instructions (i.e., commands) for one or more operating functions of the vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., cleaning process, full discharge sequence, and / or emergency discharge); - Reading the history of toilet use and / or the number of cycles / washing times of the main parts of the toilet (such as improving the maintenance plan); - Checking the possible causes for the occurrence of the activated alarm mode.

[0125] Reading and / or changing the configuration of the vacuum wastewater device includes reading and / or changing one or more of the following operating parameters of the vacuum wastewater device 100: the opening period of the water supply valve 216 (also referred to as the cleaning mechanism), the opening period of the wastewater valve 204 (also referred to as the discharge period), one or more criteria for each functional abnormality, and / or the related countermeasures corresponding thereto.

[0126] Optionally, the consumption specifications per cleaning process can be displayed by the application of the computing system 606 and / or the mobile wireless device 604. Optionally, the consumption specifications can be displayed by the application of the computing system 606 for multiple cleaning processes and / or over a predetermined period, but not necessarily by the application of the mobile wireless device.

[0127] FIG. 8 illustrates a method 800 according to various embodiments in a schematic flowchart implemented by, for example, a control device 106 (hereinafter also referred to as diagnosis) and / or a computing device 904 (hereinafter also referred to as remote diagnosis). The computing device 904 can implement a remote control device (also referred to as a control device in a simplified form) as described above, thereby enabling remote diagnosis and / or instruction of the control device 100 of the vacuum wastewater device 100.

[0128] Method 800 may include, at 801, ascertaining, by a sensor of the vacuum wastewater device, a deviation of an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device from a target state of the vacuum wastewater device (also referred to as a state deviation). A plurality of functional abnormalities (clearly contemplated) of the vacuum wastewater device can be associated with sensors that can be ascertained by the sensor. Since a plurality of fault sources can clearly induce similar measured values of the sensor, it is impossible to clearly conclude the actual fault source. For example, two or more of the following functional abnormalities can be associated with the first water sensor S4: "failure of the supply water valve", "clogging", and / or "failure of the discharge mechanism". For example, two or more of the following functional abnormalities can be associated with the second water sensor S3: "filling level undershoot", "failure of the supply water valve", "leakage of the supply water valve", and / or "leakage of the video". For example, two or more of the following functional abnormalities can be associated with the first pressure sensor S1: "failure of the vacuum supply", "failure of the vacuum control", and / or "failure of the second control valve". For example, the following functional abnormalities can be associated with the second pressure sensor S2: "failure of the vacuum supply" and "failure of the vacuum control".

[0129] Method 800 may include, at 803, ascertaining, based on at least one specification (also referred to as an additional specification) regarding the vacuum wastewater device, one functional abnormality (also referred to as an actual functional abnormality) of the plurality of functional abnormalities. The additional specification clearly enables, for example, reducing the number of fault sources considered for the ascertained state deviation to, for example, one, and clarifying the ascertained fault state.

[0130] Method 800 may include, at 805, outputting a fault message representing the ascertained malfunction. Output of the fault message can include, for example, performing activation of an alarm state and / or indicating the alarm state via a message. Output of the fault message can include, for example, displaying the fault message by a display device such as a display device of the vacuum wastewater device 100 and / or the computing device 904.

[0131] Additional specifications can be stored, for example, in a format of measurement values related to actual malfunctions.

[0132] Alternatively or additionally, the additional specifications can be confirmed in that, for example, the actual state (e.g., the actual value of the operating parameter) is detected by one or more of the other sensors of the vacuum wastewater device 100. Therefore, a plurality of measurement values can be combined to obtain a better conclusion about the actual malfunction. For example, the second pressure sensor S2 can distinguish between a vacuum supply failure and a vacuum control failure.

[0133] Alternatively or additionally, the activation of the final control element of the vacuum wastewater device can be executed to check the additional specifications, and the reaction to the activation of the final control element can be detected by one or more sensors of the vacuum wastewater device 100. For example, when the filling level overshoots, emergency discharge can be performed. If the overshoot of the filling level is eliminated in response to the emergency discharge, there may be a clog. If the overshoot of the filling level is only temporarily eliminated in response to the emergency discharge, there may be a leak in the water supply. If the overshoot of the filling level is not eliminated in response to the supply of the supply water, there may be a failure in the mechanism that empties (the wastewater valve may be permanently open). If the overshoot of the filling level is only temporarily eliminated in response to the supply of the supply water, there may be a leak in the wastewater valve 204. Other failure states can be distinguished from each other in a similar way

[0134] Figure 9 shows system 700 of method 900 according to various embodiments in a schematic communication diagram. Method 900 can include exchanging one or more messages 902 according to network CP between computer device 904 (e.g., computing system 606 and / or mobile wireless device 604) and control device 106 of vacuum wastewater device 100. Network CP can have, for example, a wireless network CP, such as WLAN-CP or LTE CP.

[0135] One or more of the following functions can be implemented by the exchange of one or more messages 902, which can be implemented individually (e.g., independently of each other) alternately or together. In other words, each of the following aspects described as an example below can be provided alone, or in combination with one or more of the other aspects, or can come to be provided.

[0136] By the exchange of messages 902, remotely controlled two-way communication of vacuum wastewater device 100 (e.g., vacuum toilet) can be performed with computing device 904, such as mobile phone 604, tablet 604, or computer 606. Computing device 904 can clearly implement a remote control device. The two-way communication can include: remote control / configuration of vacuum wastewater device 100 by computing device 904, and / or remote monitoring of the function (also referred to as operational readiness) of vacuum wastewater device 100 (or its components and operating functions) based on at least one installed sensor, such as at least one water level switch or water sensor, at least one flow meter, or at least one vacuum switch or pressure sensor. The operating parameters can be stored, for example, in the storage medium of control device 106 and / or the computing device. The remote monitoring can optionally be displayed by the display device of computing device 904.

[0137] The results of the two-way communication can optionally be displayed by the display device of the computing device 904.

[0138] For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can accordingly have an instruction to update the operating parameters (e.g., operating functions) stored by the control device 106 of the vacuum waste water device 100 or to start the operating functions (also called remote start). Thereby, the vacuum waste water device 100 can be remotely operated and / or configured. Executing the operating function can include, for example, activating one or more final control elements of the vacuum waste water device 100 according to the operating function. For example, the message can include a specification regarding the operating parameters to be updated.

[0139] By exchanging the message 902, remote configuration of one or more operating parameters can be performed, for example, for one or more parameters of the discharge sequence (also referred to as discharge parameters). Examples of discharge parameters include the cleaning period (or the period of the first phase), the discharge period (the period of the second phase), the residual water volume in the container 102 (the filling level after the third phase), and / or the amount of water to be refilled. The results of the remote configuration can optionally be displayed by the display device of the computing device 904.

[0140] By exchanging the message 902, a remote summary or remote overview of the vacuum waste water device 100 can be provided or can be made available (e.g., displayed). For example, the remote summary can include: a list of each registered vacuum waste water device 100 (e.g., connected toilets), their locations, their operating readiness (e.g., operating readiness completed or alarm mode), and / or their last access (e.g., date, time, and / or optionally specifying the name of the serviceman, etc.). The remote summary can optionally be displayed by the display device of the computing device 904.

[0141] For this purpose, the message 902 generated by the control device 106 can include a registration identifier (e.g., registration to the system), can include a specification representing the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device 100, can include a location, and / or can include a time specification of the last access (and optionally a name). Alternatively or additionally, other specifications can also be transmitted using the message 902 provided as part of the remote summary.

[0142] The time specification of the last access can identify, for example, the point in time when one or more final control elements (e.g., wastewater valve) of the vacuum wastewater device 100 were activated. Instead of or in addition to the time specification, a frequency can be identified, for example, specifying how often the access was made (e.g., at regular intervals or in total over a certain period).

[0143] This specification representing the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device 100 can represent, for example, one or more measured variables detected by sensors of the vacuum wastewater device 100, and can include, for example, the measured values thereof or can be formed therefrom. The one or more detected measured variables can optionally be displayed by a display device of the computing device 904.

[0144] The measured variables can include, for example: the filling level of the wastewater collection container 102 (detected by the filling level sensor S4); the inflow of water supplied to the wastewater collection container 102, for example, the rate and / or total amount thereof (detected by the inflow sensor S3); the first pressure applied to the control input 204 of the wastewater valve 204 (detected by the second pressure sensor S2); the second pressure applied to the wastewater joint 202 (detected by the first pressure sensor S1); the difference between the first pressure and the second pressure (detected by the first and second pressure sensors S1, S2); the pressure drop across the first control valves 206, 206a (detected by the first and second pressure sensors S1, S2).

[0145] When it is confirmed that the vacuum wastewater device 100 is clogged, remote operation of toilet flushing and / or emergency discharge can be performed by exchanging message 902. For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can include an instruction to start flushing the toilet or emergency discharge. The result of the remote start can optionally be displayed using the display device of the computing device 904.

[0146] Remote monitoring of water consumption can be performed by exchanging message 902. For this purpose, the message 902 generated by the control device 106 can include, for example, the specifications of water inflow as a total over a plurality of flushing processes and / or as an instantaneous value (e.g., as a rate, i.e., water inflow per unit time). The result of the remote monitoring can optionally be displayed by the display device of the computing device 904.

[0147] Component statistics can be provided by exchanging message 902. For this purpose, the message generated by the control device 106 can include one or more of the following component statistic specifications: a number of flushing processes (flushing), and / or a number of activations of individual final control elements (e.g., wastewater valves, valves, etc.). This facilitates maintenance or its planning. The component statistics can optionally be displayed using the display device of the computing device 904.

[0148] The computing device 904 may perform a remote diagnosis of the possibility of leakage, for example, leakage at one or more control valves.

[0149] Alternatively or additionally, remote diagnosis of possible malfunctions of one or more control valves (e.g., the first control valve 206a) can be performed, for example, by monitoring negative pressure (e.g., partial vacuum) using pressure sensors or pressure switches S1 and S2. In response to confirmation of a leak and / or malfunction (or another disturbance), an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can include instructions regarding activation of the alarm state. The results of the remote diagnosis can optionally be displayed by a display device of the computing device 904.

[0150] The computing device 904 can perform a remote diagnosis of the possible malfunction of the supply water valve 216, for example, by monitoring the water volume using a flow sensor S3. In response to confirmation of a malfunction (or another disturbance) of the supply water valve 216, an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can include instructions regarding activation of the alarm state.

[0151] The computing device 904 can perform a remote diagnosis of a possible leak of the supply water valve 216, for example, using a flow sensor S3. In response to detection of a leak (or another disturbance) of the supply water valve 216, an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can include instructions regarding activation of the alarm state. Optionally, the message 902 can include an instruction to initiate an emergency discharge. This avoids overflow of the container 102.

[0152] By exchanging message 902, for example, in response to an overshoot of the filling level detected using flow sensor S3, a trigger for deactivating the video (and optionally a trigger for emergency discharge) can be performed. In response to the detection of an overshoot of the filling level (or another disturbance), an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, message 902 received from control device 106 can include an instruction regarding the activation of the alarm state.

[0153] By computing device 904, remote diagnosis of a possible leak of water supply valve 216 can be performed using a filling level sensor S4 (including, for example, a water level sensor or a water switch). In response to the detection of a leak (or another disturbance) of water supply valve 216, an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, message 902 received from control device 106 can include an instruction regarding the activation of the alarm state. Message 902 can optionally include an instruction for starting an emergency discharge. This avoids overflow of container 102.

[0154] By computing device 904, remote diagnosis of a possible blockage (for example, clogging, also referred to as a toilet clog) can be performed using a filling level sensor S4. In response to the detection of a blockage (or another disturbance) of water supply valve 216, an alarm state can be activated. For this purpose, message 902 received from control device 106 can include an instruction regarding the activation of the alarm state. Message 902 can optionally include an instruction for starting an emergency discharge. This avoids overflow of container 102.

[0155] By exchanging message 902, for example, in response to an overshoot of the detected filling level, deactivation of the video can be triggered (and optionally emergency discharge can be triggered). An alarm state can be activated in response to detection of an overshoot of the filling level (or another disturbance). For this purpose, the message 902 received from the control device 106 can include an instruction regarding activation of the alarm state.

[0156] In connection with the above matters, various examples shown in the figures will be described below.

[0157] Example 1 is a vacuum wastewater device, comprising a wastewater collection container, a vacuum wastewater joint, a wastewater valve connected between the wastewater collection container and the vacuum wastewater joint (e.g., fluid mechanically), at least one electrical final control element configured to change the actual state (e.g., actual operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device, and a control device configured to receive messages according to a network communication protocol (including messages such as instructions) where the messages are on a target state (e.g., target operating point) specification. ( For example, an instruction), and a control device configured to activate at least one electrical final control element according to the target state (in response to receipt of a message according to the network communication protocol and / or in response to receipt of a message triggered by receipt of a message according to the network communication protocol).

[0158] Example 2 is a vacuum wastewater device according to Example 1, comprising at least one sensor configured to detect the current situation, and the control device is further configured to generate a message according to a network communication protocol including a specification representing the actual state. Optionally, the sensor or each sensor of the at least one sensor includes a switch (measurement switch). For example, the switch is configured to distinguish a plurality of (e.g., only two or individual) states of a measurement variable. For example, the sensor has a filling level switch (e.g., a float switch or a capacitance switch).

[0159] Example 3 is a vacuum wastewater device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the actual state includes one or more of the following operating parameters, or the sensor is configured to detect one or more of the following operating parameters: the filling level of the wastewater collection container; the water inflow supplied to the wastewater collection container, e.g., its rate and / or total amount; the first pressure (e.g., the first negative pressure) applied to the control input of the wastewater valve; the second pressure (e.g., the second negative pressure) applied to the wastewater joint; the difference between the first pressure (e.g., the first negative pressure) and the second pressure (e.g., the second negative pressure); and / or the pressure (e.g., negative pressure) dropping across the final control element.

[0160] Example 4 is a wastewater collection device according to one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein at least one electrical final control element includes a first electromechanical final control element connected between the wastewater valve (e.g., its control input) and the vacuum wastewater joint and / or activated by control device means according to a target state.

[0161] Example 5 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 4, further comprising a control gas input, wherein at least one electrical final control element has a second electromechanical final control element connected between the wastewater valve (e.g., its control input) and the control gas input and / or activated by control device means according to a target state. Optionally, the control gas input has an air input exposed to the atmosphere.

[0162] Example 6 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 5, further comprising a water supply joint, and at least one electrical final control element comprises a third electromechanical final control element connected between the wastewater collection container and the water supply joint and / or activated by control device means according to a target state.

[0163] Example 7 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 6, further comprising a water supply joint and a valve, and at least one electrical final control element has a fourth final control element configured to switch the valve between an activated state and a deactivated state. For example, the fourth final control element is connected between the water supply joint and the valve and / or activated by control device means according to a target state.

[0164] Example 8 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the control device is configured to activate at least one electrical final control element according to stored parameters, and the control device is configured to update the parameters according to additional messages received according to a communication protocol.

[0165] Example 9 is a vacuum wastewater device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the parameters represent a time series period (e.g., an open period and / or a closed period) that separates two (e.g., immediately consecutive) positioning processes of at least one electrical final control element from each other. For example, the time series period includes a cleaning period or a discharge period.

[0166] Example 10 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the control unit is further configured to generate messages according to a network communication protocol, and the network communication protocol includes one or more of the following outfits: the position of the vacuum wastewater device; the frequency at which at least one electrical final control element was activated; the operational readiness of the vacuum wastewater device; the alarm state of the vacuum wastewater device; the time spec for the activation (e.g., the last occurrence) of the wastewater valve; the frequency or rate at which the wastewater valve was activated.

[0167] Example 11 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the network communication protocol includes a wireless communication protocol (also referred to as a wireless network communication protocol) and / or a wired communication protocol (also referred to as a wired network communication protocol) and / or a communication protocol of a cellular network and / or a communication protocol of a computer network (such as Ethernet).

[0168] Example 12 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the activation of at least one electrical final control element triggers one of the following operating functions: a flushing process; an emergency discharge; a discharge sequence.

[0169] Example 13 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the activation of at least one electrical final control element triggers one of the following operating functions: a countermeasure; a non-activation of the video; an activation of an alarm state.

[0170] Example 14 is a vacuum wastewater device according to one of Examples 1 to 13, and further includes one or more sensors, and the control device is further configured to execute a method according to one of Examples 18 to 20.

[0171] Example 15 is a system comprising one or more vacuum wastewater devices according to one of Examples 1 to 14 or according to Example 22, and at least one (i.e., one or more) computing devices, wherein the computing device or each computing device is optionally configured to transmit messages according to a network communication protocol, the computing device is optionally configured to execute a method according to one of Examples 18 to 20, and the computing device is optionally configured to set the vacuum wastewater device to an alarm state if a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device is confirmed (e.g., based on the current state of the vacuum wastewater device), and for example, each of the one or more vacuum wastewater devices is registered by the computing device according to a network communication protocol.

[0172] Example 16 is a system according to Example 15, wherein the computing device is configured to display one or more of the following specifications (e.g., based on a message from a control device and / or by means of a display device): water consumption of the vacuum wastewater device; actual state of the vacuum wastewater device (e.g., readiness for operation and / or actual operating point); the confirmed malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0173] Example 17 is a system according to Example 15 or 16, wherein the computing device is optionally configured to display one or more of the following specifications, and the computing device is optionally configured to display one or more of the following specifications: location of the vacuum wastewater device; frequency at which at least one electrical final control element is activated (e.g., frequency and / or number of activations); readiness for operation of the vacuum wastewater device; time specification for the (last occurred) activation of the wastewater valve; time specification for the last occurred maintenance of the vacuum wastewater device; and / or frequency at which the wastewater valve is driven (e.g., frequency and / or number of drives).

[0174] Example 18 is a method of operating a vacuum wastewater device (e.g., the vacuum wastewater device of Examples 1 to 17), comprising: a step of checking for a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device; and a step of outputting a failure message indicating the confirmed malfunction. For example, the output of the failure message includes setting the vacuum wastewater device to an alarm state by message means (generated, sent, and / or received) according to a communication protocol. The malfunction includes, for example, clogging or leakage (also referred to as a leak) of at least one electrical final control element, and / or clogging of the wastewater valve.

[0175] Example 19 is a method according to Example 18, wherein the checking for a malfunction includes: a step of checking, by sensor means of the vacuum wastewater device, for a deviation of the actual state (e.g., actual operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device from the target state (e.g., target operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device, for example, checking for a plurality of (e.g., stored) malfunctions of the vacuum wastewater device; and a step of checking for one malfunction of the plurality of malfunctions based on at least one specification (and additionally called a specification) for the vacuum wastewater device, the specification optionally including a step related to the malfunction. And called) for the vacuum wastewater device, the specification optionally including a step related to the malfunction.

[0176] Example 20 is a method according to Example 19, wherein the specification is stored and / or the specification is confirmed by additional sensor means of the vacuum wastewater device and / or by activation of the electrical final control elements of the vacuum wastewater device, for example, in response thereto (e.g., for performing a function check of the vacuum wastewater device).

[0177] Example 21 is a control device configured to execute the method according to any one of Examples 18 to 20, the control device being, for example, a control device of the vacuum wastewater device or a control device external to the vacuum wastewater device (e.g., provided by means of an external computing device).

[0178] Example 22 is a vacuum wastewater device, comprising: a wastewater collection container, a vacuum wastewater joint, a wastewater valve (such as a fluid machine) connected between the wastewater collection container and the vacuum wastewater joint, one or more sensors, and a control device according to Example 21. Optionally, the vacuum wastewater device further comprises a vacuum wastewater joint and / or a water supply joint, and / or at least one electrical final control element configured to change the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device.

[0179] Example 23 is a code segment configured to implement the method according to one of Examples 18 to 20 when executed by a processor.

[0180] Example 24 is a non-volatile memory medium having the code segment according to Example 23.

[0181] Example 25 is a remote control unit including one or more processors. The processor generates a message according to a network communication protocol. The message is addressed to the vacuum wastewater device and includes the specifications of the target state (such as the target operating point) of the vacuum wastewater device. At least one electrical final control element of the vacuum wastewater device is remotely controlled by message means (for example, indirectly activated by at least one control device means of the vacuum wastewater device). The remote control is optionally performed based on the confirmation of the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device or based on user input in the remote control unit. The one or more processors are optionally further configured to implement the method according to one of Examples 18 to 20. The vacuum wastewater device is optionally configured according to Examples 1 to 17 or according to Example 22.

Claims

1. A vacuum wastewater device, comprising a wastewater collection container, a vacuum wastewater joint, a wastewater valve connected between the wastewater collection container and the vacuum wastewater joint, at least one final control element configured to change the actual state of the vacuum wastewater device, the final control element being configured to convert electrical energy into mechanical energy in response to activation, a control unit, configured to receive a message including a specification of a target state according to a network communication protocol and activate the at least one final control element according to the target state, a control unit configured as such, and comprising, the at least one final control element includes a first final control element connected between the wastewater valve and the vacuum wastewater joint, the control unit further, activates the at least one final control element according to stored parameters, and updates the parameters according to additional messages received according to the network communication protocol, configured as such, the parameters represent a period, the period separating two consecutive positioning processes of the at least one final control element from each other, the period is a closed period and / or a discharge period, or the activation triggers an emergency discharge, a vacuum wastewater device.

2. further comprising at least one sensor for detecting the actual state, the control unit is further configured to generate a message including a specification of the actual state according to the network communication protocol, the vacuum wastewater device according to claim 1.

3. The at least one sensor includes a switch. The vacuum waste water device according to claim 2.

4. The at least one sensor is configured to detect: The filling level of the waste water collection container, The water inflow supplied to the waste water collection container, The first pressure applied at the control input of the waste water valve, The second pressure applied to the vacuum waste water joint, The difference between the first pressure and the second pressure, and / or The pressure dropping across the final control element, at least one of the parameters. The vacuum waste water device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. Further comprising a control gas inlet, The at least one final control element includes a second final control element connected between the waste water valve and the control gas inlet. The vacuum waste water device according to claim 1.

6. The control gas inlet has an air inlet exposed to the atmosphere. The vacuum waste water device according to claim 5.

7. Further comprising a water supply joint, The at least one final control element includes a third final control element connected between the waste water collection container and the water supply joint. The vacuum waste water device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. The control unit is further configured to, according to the network communication protocol, the position of the vacuum waste water device, the readiness of the vacuum waste water device, and / or the time specification for starting the waste water valve, configured to generate a message including one or more of the following specifications: The vacuum wastewater device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The network communication protocol includes a wireless communication portal and / or a wired communication portal. The vacuum wastewater device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The system includes: One or more vacuum wastewater devices according to any one of claims 1 to 9, At least one computing device configured to transmit the message according to the network communication protocol, and a system.

11. The computing device is further configured to: confirm a malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device, output a failure message representing the confirmed malfunction. configured as such. The system according to claim 10.

12. The malfunction includes clogging of the wastewater valve or leakage of the final control element. The system according to claim 11.

13. The computing device is further configured to: display one or more of the following specifications of the vacuum wastewater device: water consumption, actual state, and / or confirmed malfunction of the vacuum wastewater device. configured as such. The system according to any one of claims 10 to 12.

14. The computing device is further configured to: display the location of the vacuum wastewater device. The frequency at which the at least one final control element is activated, The preparation for operation of the vacuum wastewater device, The time specification for the last activation of the wastewater valve, The time specification for the last maintenance of the vacuum wastewater device, and / or, The frequency at which the wastewater valve is activated, The system according to any one of claims 10 to 13, configured to display one or more of the above specifications.

15. A method for operating a vacuum wastewater device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: Confirming a deviation of an actual state of the vacuum wastewater device from a target state of the vacuum wastewater device by sensor means of the vacuum wastewater device, wherein a plurality of functional abnormalities of the vacuum wastewater device are related; Confirming one of the plurality of functional abnormalities based on at least one specification for the vacuum wastewater device related to the functional abnormality; Outputting a failure message representing the confirmed functional abnormality; A method comprising the above steps.

16. A control unit configured to execute the method according to claim 15.

17. A non-volatile storage medium including a code segment configured when executed by a processor to execute the method according to claim 15.

18. A remote operation unit for a vacuum wastewater device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, including one or more processors, wherein the processor: Generates a message according to a network communication protocol, The message is addressed to a vacuum wastewater device and includes specifications of a target state of the vacuum wastewater device, A remote operation unit configured to remotely control the at least one final control element of the vacuum waste water device by message means. ​

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