Actuating device for a drain valve, drain valve for a cistern, and cistern for a sanitary installation

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuating device (33) for a drain valve (1), at least comprising: - a first venting valve (18) for venting a first air chamber (10) of the drain valve (1); - a second venting valve (19) for venting a second air chamber (11) of the drain valve (1); - a lever (36) which is pivotably mounted on the actuation device housing; - a first actuating element (34) by means of which the first venting valve (18) can be actuated via the lever (36); and - a second actuating element (35) by means of which the first venting valve (18) and the second venting valve (19) can be actuated via the lever (36). The invention also relates to a drain valve (1) comprising such an actuating device (33), and to a cistern (2) comprising such a drain valve (1).

Description

[0001] Actuating device for a drain valve, drain valve for a cistern and cistern for a sanitary appliance

[0002] The present invention relates to an actuating device for a drain valve, a drain valve for a cistern, and a cistern for a sanitary fixture. Such cisterns are used in particular for flushing the sanitary fixture, such as a toilet or urinal, with a flushing fluid.

[0003] A cistern is usually installed in a wall or attached to a wall in sanitary rooms and is connected to the sanitary fixture via a pipe. When a flush is activated, the flushing fluid flows through the pipe into the sanitary fixture, removing any excrement collected by the sanitary fixture from the sanitary fixture. For this purpose, the cistern usually has a holding chamber in which a predefined amount of flushing fluid can be stored for one flush. To control the release of the flushing fluid, the cistern can have a drain valve through which an outlet for the flushing fluid can be opened and closed.

[0004] The drain valves can be regularly operated or opened by a user via at least one actuating element, for example in the form of an actuating button or an actuating device. To operate or open the drain valve, the at least one actuating element must be pressed by the user with a high actuating force (approximately 25 Newtons) and along a long travel range (approximately 20 mm), which reduces the operating comfort.

[0005] The object of the invention is therefore to at least partially solve the problems described with reference to the prior art and, in particular, to provide an actuating device for a drain valve with which the drain valve can be operated with a high degree of ease of operation. Furthermore, a drain valve for a cistern is also to be provided that can be operated with a high degree of ease of operation. Furthermore, a cistern for a sanitary facility is also to be provided whose drain valve can be operated with a high degree of ease of operation.

[0006] These objects are achieved with an actuating device, a drain valve, and a cistern according to the features of the independent patent claims. Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent patent claims. It should be noted that the features listed individually in the patent claims can be combined with one another in any technologically expedient manner and define further embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the features listed in the patent claims are further specified and explained in the description, with further preferred embodiments of the invention being presented.

[0007] This is achieved by an actuating device for a drain valve, which has at least the following:

[0008] - a first vent valve for venting a first air chamber of the drain valve;

[0009] - a second vent valve for venting a second air chamber of the drain valve;

[0010] - a lever pivotally mounted on the actuator housing;

[0011] - a first actuating element with which the first vent valve can be actuated via the lever; and

[0012] - a second actuating element with which the first vent valve and the second vent valve can be actuated via the lever.

[0013] The drain valve can be used in particular for a cistern, which in particular serves to flush a sanitary fixture, such as a toilet or a urinal. For this purpose, the cistern can be arranged in or on a wall of a building and / or connected to the sanitary fixture via a connecting line, in particular in the manner of a pipeline and / or a flush pipe. Furthermore, the cistern can be made at least partially of plastic and / or be designed as a plastic injection-molded part. The cistern can have a mounting frame with which the cistern can be fastened to the wall. The mounting frame can comprise at least one metal profile. Furthermore, the mounting frame can be fastened to the wall and / or a building floor. In addition, the mounting frame can serve as a support for the sanitary fixture.

[0014] The cistern comprises a receiving chamber for a flushing liquid, which, for example, has a capacity for the flushing liquid of 3 liters to 9 liters. Furthermore, the cistern can have a filling valve through which the receiving chamber can be filled, in particular automatically, up to a predetermined target level or up to a predeterminable upper flushing liquid level. Furthermore, the receiving chamber can have an upper opening that can be at least partially closed, for example, by a lid. The flushing liquid can be water, in particular. The flushing liquid can be supplied to the filling valve, in particular, from a public water supply network.

[0015] The drain valve serves in particular to control the release of the flushing liquid from the receiving space of the cistern to the sanitary facility. The drain valve can have a housing and / or be arranged on a floor of the receiving space. The housing can be made at least partially of plastic and / or metal. The housing can be a plastic injection-molded part. The drain valve has a valve body by means of which the release of the flushing liquid via a drain opening of the receiving space or of the drain valve can be controlled. The valve body is adjustable in particular between an open valve position, in which the drain opening is at least partially open, and a closed valve position, in which the drain opening is closed. "Closed" here is to be understood in particular to mean that the flushing liquid cannot flow out via the drain opening as long as the flushing liquid in the cistern does not exceed the desired level orthe upper flushing liquid level rises. The valve body can be movably mounted or guided in and / or on the housing of the valve body. The valve body can be at least partially tubular or designed as a valve tube. The valve body can extend along a, in particular straight, longitudinal valve body axis from a lower longitudinal valve body end to an upper longitudinal valve body end. If the flushing liquid in the receiving space rises above the upper flushing liquid level or above the upper longitudinal valve body end, the flushing liquid can flow into the valve body via the upper longitudinal valve body end. The flushing liquid can flow from the upper longitudinal valve body end through the valve body, in particular along the valve body longitudinal axis, to the lower longitudinal valve body end and from the lower longitudinal valve body end into the drain opening.The upper longitudinal end of the valve body can serve as an overflow for the flushing fluid. The flushing fluid can flow out through the drain opening via the upper longitudinal end of the valve body, even when the valve body is in the closed position. When the drain valve or cistern is in the assembled or operational state, the valve body is adjustable between the closed position and the open position, in particular along a travel path that runs (essentially) vertically and / or parallel to a longitudinal axis of the valve body. The travel path can have a travel length of, for example, at least 30 mm [millimeters], preferably 30 mm to 60 mm.

[0016] The drain opening is formed in particular in the housing of the drain valve and / or in the base of the receiving space of the cistern. In the valve body closed position, the valve body sits on a valve seat, in particular with its lower longitudinal valve body end and / or with a seal. The valve seat can surround and / or delimit the drain opening. The valve seat can in particular be annular. The seal can be designed as a flat seal, in particular annular. The seal can consist at least partially of an elastomer, such as silicone or rubber. The seal can be attached to the lower longitudinal valve body end and / or to an outer surface of the valve body. The flushing liquid can generate a force on the seal that holds the valve body in the valve body closed position. Alternatively or cumulatively, the valve body can be held in the valve body closed position by gravity.The actuating device serves to actuate the drain valve, i.e. in particular to open and / or close the drain valve. The user can start a flushing process via the actuating device. An inspection opening of the cistern can be covered or concealed by the actuating device or by a cover plate of the actuating device. The actuating device can be arranged or concealed on a wall of a building or a prefabricated wall. The actuating device can comprise an actuating device housing. The actuating device housing can be made at least partially of plastic and / or metal. The actuating device housing can be designed as a plastic injection-molded part.

[0017] The actuating device comprises a first vent valve for venting a first air chamber of the drain valve and a second vent valve for venting a second air chamber of the drain valve. The actuating device can have a first line connection for a first vent line and / or a second line connection for a second vent line. The first vent valve can be connected to the drain valve or to the first air chamber of the drain valve via the first vent line. The second vent valve can be connected to the drain valve or to the second air chamber of the drain valve via the second vent line. The first vent valve can be opened by the user of the drain valve, in particular with a first stroke of a maximum of 5 mm and / or a first actuating force of less than 5 Newtons.The second vent valve can be opened by the user of the drain valve, in particular with a second stroke of a maximum of 5 mm and / or a second actuating force of less than 5 Newtons. After the first vent valve and / or the second vent valve have been actuated by the user, the first vent valve and / or the second vent valve closes again, in particular automatically. The first vent valve and / or the second vent valve can be designed, for example, as backflow preventer valves and / or pilot valves. The first vent valve and / or the second vent valve can be arranged or fastened in and / or on the actuating device or in and / or on the actuating device housing. The first vent valve and / or the second vent valve can be actuated mechanically or electrically. The first vent valve and / or the second vent valve can be normally closed.This may in particular mean that the first vent valve and / or the second vent valve are closed when they are not operated by a user of the drain valve.

[0018] The actuating device comprises a lever. The lever can be designed, for example, as a rocker arm and / or a driver. The lever can extend from a first longitudinal lever end to a second longitudinal lever end. The lever can be rotatably or pivotably attached to the actuating device or to the actuating device housing, for example, to a lever rotation axis, in particular at the first longitudinal lever end. The lever can be rotatably or pivotably attached relative to the actuating device or the actuating device housing. The lever can have a first lever section and / or a second lever section, in particular at the second longitudinal lever end. The first lever section can extend to a first actuating element and / or the second lever section can extend to the first vent valve or to a first vent valve body of the first vent valve.

[0019] The actuating device has a first actuating element and a second actuating element. The first actuating element and / or the second actuating element can be designed, for example, as actuating buttons. The first actuating element and / or the second actuating element can be arranged in and / or on the cover plate. The first actuating element can be smaller than the second actuating element. By actuating the first actuating element, the first actuating element can be adjusted, in particular, from a first starting position into a first actuating position and / or by actuating the second actuating element, the second actuating element can be adjusted from a second starting position into a second actuating position. The first vent valve can be actuated or opened via the lever using the first actuating element. The lever can be rotated or opened, in particular, about the lever rotation axis using the first actuating element.pivotable so that the first vent valve is opened. In particular, only the first vent valve and not the second vent valve can be opened with the first actuating element. When the first actuating element is moved from the first starting position to the first actuating position, the first actuating element presses the lever, in particular, onto the first vent valve body, so that the first vent valve is opened. When the first actuating element is moved from the first starting position to the first actuating position, the first actuating element presses the lever with the second lever section, in particular, onto the first vent valve body, so that the first vent valve is opened. By opening the first vent valve, the first air chamber of the drain valve can be vented. The first actuating element can be decoupled from the second actuating element by the lever.This may mean, in particular, that the second actuating element remains in the second initial position when the first actuating element is moved from the first initial position to the first actuating position.

[0020] With the second actuating element, the first vent valve and the second vent valve can be actuated or opened via the lever. With the second actuating element, the first vent valve and the second vent valve can be actuated or opened via the lever, in particular simultaneously. With the second actuating element, the lever can be rotated or pivoted, in particular, about the lever's axis of rotation, so that the first vent valve is opened. The second actuating element can be decoupled from the first actuating element. This can mean, in particular, that the first actuating element remains in the first starting position when the second actuating element is moved from the second starting position to the second actuating position.When the second actuating element is moved from the second initial position to the second actuating position, the second actuating element presses the lever, in particular via a carrier element of the second actuating element, in particular onto the first vent valve body, so that the first vent valve is opened. At the same time, the second actuating element presses a second vent valve body of the second vent valve, so that the second vent valve is opened. By opening the first vent valve and the second vent valve, the first air chamber and the second air chamber can be vented (at least partially simultaneously).

[0021] The operating device allows the drain valve to be operated with a high level of comfort.

[0022] The first actuating element can be adjusted from a first starting position into a first actuating position with a first stroke of a maximum of 5 mm and / or the second actuating element can be adjusted from a second starting position into a second actuating position with a second stroke of a maximum of 5 mm. The first actuating element can be adjusted from the first starting position towards the first actuating position, in particular into the actuating device. The second actuating element can be adjusted from the second starting position towards the second actuating position, in particular into the actuating device. The first actuating element is in particular in the first starting position when the first actuating element is not actuated by the user and / or the first vent valve is closed.The first actuating element is in particular in the first actuating position when the first actuating element is fully actuated or pressed by the user and / or when the first vent valve is open. The first stroke is in particular a first travel distance of the first actuating element between the first starting position and the first actuating position. The second actuating element is in particular in the second starting position when the second actuating element is not actuated by the user and / or the first vent valve and the second vent valve are closed. The second actuating element is in particular in the second actuating position when the second actuating element is fully actuated or pressed by the user and / or when the first vent valve and the second vent valve are open.The second stroke is in particular a second travel path of the second actuating element between the second initial position and the second actuating position.

[0023] The actuating device can have a first spring that holds the first actuating element in the first initial position when the first actuating element is not actuated. The actuating device can have a second spring that holds the second actuating element in the second initial position when the second actuating element is not actuated. The first spring and / or the second spring can be designed as a helical spring or a spiral spring. The first spring and / or the second spring can be formed integrally with the actuating device or integrally with an actuating device housing of the actuating device, for example by injection molding.

[0024] The first actuating element can be adjustable from a first initial position into a first actuating position with a first actuating force of maximum 5 N [Newton] and / or the second actuating element can be adjustable from a second initial position into a second actuating position with a second actuating force of maximum 5 N.

[0025] By actuating the first actuating element, the first quantity of rinsing liquid can be released through the drain valve via the drain opening and by actuating the second actuating element, the second quantity of rinsing liquid can be released through the drain valve via the drain opening.

[0026] According to a further aspect, a drain valve for a cistern is also proposed, which has at least the following: a valve body for closing a drain opening for a flushing liquid; a first float for actuating the valve body, wherein the first float is attached to a valve body outer surface of the valve body; - a first air chamber housing with a first air chamber for forming a first air bell, wherein the first float is adjustable in the first air chamber between a closed position and an open position; and

[0027] - an actuating device as described herein, wherein the first float is adjustable into the open position by venting the first air chamber with the aid of a first vent valve of the actuating device.

[0028] The drain valve has a first float for actuating the valve body. The first float can have a lower density than the rinsing liquid. The first float can float on and / or in the rinsing liquid. The first float can generate a first buoyancy or a first buoyancy force. The first float can be made at least partially of plastic, metal and / or, in particular, closed-cell foam. The first float can be at least partially open on a first float underside. The first float can be at least partially cup-shaped. The first float is attached and / or arranged on the valve body outer surface of the valve body. The first float can be attached to the valve body outer surface, for example, via an adhesive connection, screw connection, snap connection and / or clamp connection.Alternatively, the first float may be formed integrally with the valve body and / or be integrally connected to the valve body.

[0029] The drain valve has a first air chamber housing with the first air chamber for forming a first air bell. The first air chamber housing can be part of the housing of the drain valve or attached to the housing of the drain valve as a separate component. The first air chamber housing can be made at least partially of plastic and / or metal. The first air chamber housing can be designed as a plastic injection-molded part. The first air chamber housing and / or a first outer wall of the first air chamber housing can be at least partially flushed with the flushing liquid. The first air chamber is in particular a first cavity of the first air chamber housing. The first air chamber can be connected to an area surrounding the drain valve and / or to the receiving space of the cistern (in a liquid-conducting and / or air-conducting manner).

[0030] The first float is adjustable in the first air chamber, in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body and / or in a vertical direction, between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position of the float, the valve body is in the valve body closed position or the drain valve is closed. In the open position of the float, the valve body is in the valve body open position or the drain valve is open. The first float is adjustable from the closed position to the open position in particular by the first buoyancy or by the first buoyancy force. The first float is adjustable from the open position to the closed position in particular by gravity.

[0031] When the drain valve is opened, the flushing liquid level in the cistern's receiving space can drop so far that air from the environment or from the receiving space flows into the first air chamber and forms a first air pocket in the first air chamber. If, after flushing, the cistern's receiving space is filled with flushing liquid again up to the upper flushing liquid level, the flushing liquid encloses the air in the first air chamber or in the first air pocket. The first air pocket forms in particular in an upper region of the first air chamber. The first air pocket is in particular made of air. The first air pocket can be an air bubble. The first air pocket prevents the first air chamber from filling, in particular completely, with the flushing liquid when the cistern's receiving space is filled with flushing liquid again up to the upper flushing liquid level after flushing.If the first air bell is formed, the first float is not or only partially located in the rinsing liquid. If the first air bell is formed, a first lower part of the first float can be in the rinsing liquid and a first upper part of the float can be in the first air bell. As long as the first air bell is formed, in particular completely, the first buoyancy or the first buoyancy force of the first float is not sufficient to move or lift the first float from the closed position toward the open position and / or the valve body from the valve body closed position toward the valve body open position.

[0032] When the first vent valve is closed, the air from the first air chamber or the air from the first air bell cannot escape from the first air chamber into the environment or into the cistern's receiving space. As long as the first vent valve is closed, the drain valve is closed, the first float remains in the closed position, and / or the valve body remains in the closed position.

[0033] If the first vent valve is opened, the air from the first air chamber or the air in the first air bell can escape via the first vent valve into the environment or into the receiving space of the cistern. This allows the flushing liquid to flow into the first air chamber and / or the flushing liquid in the first air chamber to rise, in particular in a pulsed manner, up to the flushing liquid level of the liquid in the receiving space. This increases the first buoyancy or the first buoyancy force of the first float to such an extent that the first float is moved from the closed position to the open position and the valve body from the valve body closed position to the valve body open position. The drain valve is then opened and the flushing liquid can flow out of the receiving space of the cistern via the drain opening.The liquid level of the flushing liquid in the receiving space of the cistern and in the first air chamber of the first air chamber housing drops to such an extent that the first buoyancy or the first buoyancy force of the first float is no longer sufficient to hold the valve body in the open position. In addition, a suction effect of the flushing liquid as it flows out can pull the valve body into the closed position. The drain valve is then closed again and the flushing liquid in the receiving space of the cistern can be refilled up to the upper flushing liquid level. The drain valve can then be opened again via the first vent valve. By opening the drain valve via the first vent valve, a first amount of flushing liquid can be released via the drain opening. The first amount of flushing liquid can be, for example, 2 to 6 liters.The first amount of rinsing liquid may be a small amount of rinsing liquid and / or an "economy rinse".

[0034] The drain valve can be opened by venting the first air chamber, whereby the then increasing first buoyancy or the then increasing first buoyancy force of the first float is utilized when opening the drain valve. This increases the ease of operation of the drain valve. Venting the first air chamber also reduces the air overpressure or compression pressure of the air in the first air chamber, which creates an air pressure force on the first float directed toward the closed position of the first float.

[0035] In the event of a leak or micro-leak that causes the first air chamber to vent unintentionally, the drain valve opens automatically and performs a reset flush cycle once the first air chamber has been sufficiently vented as a result of the leak or micro-leak. After the reset flush cycle, a regular flush cycle can be triggered again by opening the first vent valve. Therefore, the drain valve does not permanently fail even in the event of a leak or micro-leak.

[0036] The first air chamber housing can have at least one first air chamber housing opening through which the flushing liquid can flow into the first air chamber and through which the flushing liquid can flow out of the first air chamber. The first air chamber housing can have a plurality of first air chamber housing openings, for example two first air chamber housing openings. The at least one first air chamber housing opening can connect the first air chamber to the environment or to the receiving space of the cistern. The at least one first air chamber housing opening can be formed on a first underside of the first air chamber housing and / or the first air chamber. The first air chamber housing can have at least one ventilation window. The at least one ventilation window can connect the first air chamber to the environment or to the receiving space of the cistern.In particular, air can flow into the first air chamber via the ventilation window when the rinsing liquid in the receiving space drops to a rinsing liquid level that is lower than an upper edge of the at least one ventilation window. The first air bell can form in the first air chamber, in particular in a region above the upper edge of the at least one ventilation window. The at least one ventilation window can be formed in a housing side wall, in particular a vertical one, of the first air chamber housing. The at least one ventilation window can extend over a first window area of, for example, at least 100 mm. 2 [square millimeters], preferably 100 mm 2 up to 500 mm 2 , extend.

[0037] A flow channel for the flushing fluid can be formed between the first float and the first air chamber housing, said flow channel having a channel width of 1 mm to 10 mm. The flow channel can have a flow cross-section of, for example, 50 mm 2 [square millimeters] up to 1,500 mm 2The flow channel can be formed between an inner wall of the first air chamber housing and / or the first air chamber and the first float. The flow channel can extend in the vertical direction and / or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body. The flow channel can extend (in particular in a horizontal direction) at least partially around the first float. The channel width can be dimensioned in particular in the horizontal direction and / or perpendicular to the inner wall of the first air chamber housing or the first air chamber. When the first air chamber is vented, the rinsing liquid can flow via the flow channel, in particular in the vertical direction upwards and / or in a pulsed manner, into the first air chamber.The flow of the flushing liquid can, due to friction and / or turbulence, generate a dynamic and / or vertically upward force on the first float, which can assist the movement of the first float towards the open position. A seal on the valve body for the drain opening can generate a force in the direction of the open position of the valve body when the valve body is in the closed position. When the valve body is in the closed position, the pressure of the flushing liquid can elastically deform the seal and / or tension it like a spring. The seal can be designed as a disc spring. When the first buoyancy orAs the first buoyancy force of the first float increases, the tensioned seal can support or accelerate the movement of the valve body from the valve body closed position toward the valve body open position, in particular in a pulsed manner. An impulse stroke or spring travel of the seal can be (in particular parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis) for example 1 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, particularly preferably (essentially) 2 mm.

[0038] The first vent valve can be connected to the first air chamber via a first vent line. The first vent line can be at least partially designed as a hose line and / or pipe line. The first vent line can have a first line length of, for example, 100 mm to 1,500 mm and / or a first line diameter of at least 6 mm, for example, 6 mm to 15 mm. The first vent line can be connected in particular to a first upper side of the first air chamber housing and / or to a first pre-chamber of the first air chamber housing. The first pre-chamber can have a smaller first diameter than the first air chamber housing (in particular) in the region of the first air chamber. The first diameter can be, for example, 10 mm to 50 mm (in particular orthogonal to the valve body longitudinal axis). The first pre-chamber can have a first pre-chamber length (in particular parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis).The first pre-chamber length can be, for example, 10 mm to 50 mm. The first pre-chamber can be formed and / or arranged above the upper rinsing liquid level of the rinsing liquid. The first pre-chamber can prevent the rinsing liquid from entering or injecting into the first vent line. The air from the first air chamber or the air from the first air bell can escape from the first air chamber via the first vent line. A first connection nipple for the first vent line can be formed on the first upper side and / or the first pre-chamber. The first vent line connects the first air chamber to the first vent valve so that the air can flow via the first vent line to the first vent valve. The first vent valve can open and close the first vent line.Thanks to the first vent line, the first vent valve does not need to be located directly on the first air chamber housing. Thanks to the first vent line, the first vent valve can be located, for example, in or on an actuating device of the drain valve.

[0039] The drain valve can have the following:

[0040] - a second swimmer;

[0041] - a second air chamber housing with a second air chamber for forming a second air bell, wherein the second float in the second air chamber is adjustable between a release position and a blocking position, wherein the second float in the blocking position prevents adjustment of the valve body into a valve body closed position and wherein the second float is adjustable into the blocking position by venting the second air chamber with the aid of a second vent valve of the actuating device.

[0042] With the help of the second float, a second amount of rinsing fluid can be released via the drain opening with the drain valve. The second amount of rinsing fluid can be, for example, 4 to 9 liters. The second amount of rinsing fluid can be a large amount of rinsing fluid and / or a "full flush." ​​The second amount of rinsing fluid can be greater than the first amount of rinsing fluid.

[0043] The second float can have a lower density than the rinsing liquid. The second float can float on and / or in the rinsing liquid. The second float can generate a second buoyancy or a second buoyancy force. The second float can be made at least partially of plastic, metal and / or, in particular, closed-cell foam. The second float can be at least partially open on a second float underside. The second float can be at least partially cup-shaped. The second float can be rotatable, for example with the aid of a hinge, about a float rotation axis, in particular to a limited extent and / or upwards or downwards. The second float can be designed as a float flap.

[0044] The drain valve has a second air chamber housing with a second air chamber for forming a second air bell. The second air chamber housing can be part of the housing of the drain valve, the first air chamber housing, or can be attached as a separate component to the housing of the drain valve and / or the first air chamber housing. The second air chamber housing can be arranged opposite the first air chamber housing. The second air chamber housing can be arranged on a side of the valve body opposite the first air chamber housing. The second air chamber housing can be made at least partially of plastic and / or metal. The second air chamber housing can be formed as a plastic injection-molded part. The second air chamber housing and / or a second outer wall of the second air chamber housing can be at least partially flushed with the rinsing liquid.The second air chamber is, in particular, a second cavity of the second air chamber housing. The second air chamber housing can have at least one wall opening. The at least one wall opening can connect the second air chamber to the environment or to the receiving space of the cistern. In particular, air can flow into the second air chamber via the at least one wall opening when the flushing liquid in the receiving space sinks to a flushing liquid level that is lower than an upper edge of the at least one wall opening. The second air bell can form in the second air chamber, in particular in a region above the upper edge of the at least one wall opening. The at least one wall opening can be formed in a side wall, in particular a vertical side wall, of the second air chamber housing. The at least one wall opening can extend over a second window area of, for example, at least 25 mm. 2[square millimeters], preferably 25 mm 2 up to 400 mm 2 , extend. The at least one wall opening can be oriented toward the valve body. The at least one wall opening can connect the second air chamber to the valve body. The second air chamber can be connected to the surroundings of the drain valve and / or to the receiving space of the cistern (fluid-conducting and / or air-conducting).

[0045] The second float is adjustable in the second air chamber, in particular about the float's axis of rotation and / or with the aid of the hinge, between a release position and a blocking position. The second float can be rotatable between the release position and the blocking position about the float's axis of rotation, for example at an angle of 10° to 60°. In the blocking position, the second float can be rotated upwards or into an upper position about the float's axis of rotation and / or downwards or into a lower position in the release position. If the valve body has been adjusted to the valve body open position by the first float, the second float in the blocking position can prevent the valve body from being adjusted or returned to the valve body closed position, in particular as long as the second float is in the blocking position.The second float can block a movement of the valve body from the valve body open position towards the valve body closed position, in particular mechanically, for example via the at least one wall opening. In the blocking position, the second float can be connected to the valve body, for example, in a frictionally or positively locking manner. If the second float is moved from the blocking position towards the release position, the second float releases the valve body so that the valve body can be moved from the valve body open position to the valve body closed position. In the release position, the second float does not prevent the valve body from being moved to the valve body closed position. The second float can be moved from the release position to the blocking position in particular by the second buoyancy or by the second buoyancy force.The second float can be adjusted from the blocking position to the release position, in particular by gravity. The second float can have at least one rinsing liquid receptacle. For example, the second float can have two rinsing liquid receptacles, which can be formed, for example, on two opposite sides of the second float. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle can be formed on an outer side of the second float. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle can be designed as a saddle bag and / or as a liquid basin. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle can be open at the top. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle serves to hold rinsing liquid. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle, or all rinsing liquid receptacles together, can have a holding capacity for the rinsing liquid of, for example, 50 ml [milliliters] to 200 ml.The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle can be located, in particular completely, in the rinsing liquid in the release position of the second float and / or can be filled, in particular completely, with rinsing liquid. The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle filled with rinsing liquid can behave in a weight-neutral manner in the release position of the second float, in particular because the at least one rinsing liquid receptacle filled with rinsing liquid has a density that (substantially) corresponds to the density of water. In the blocking position of the second float, the at least one rinsing liquid receptacle filled with rinsing liquid can, through its mass, support the release of a blocking element of the second float from a blocking geometry of the valve body and / or the adjustment of the second float from the blocking position to the release position.The at least one rinsing liquid receptacle filled with the rinsing liquid may have an excess weight and / or may not be weight-neutral.

[0046] When the drain valve is opened, the level of the flushing liquid in the receiving space of the cistern can drop so far that air from the environment or from the receiving space flows into the second air chamber and forms a second air bell in the second air chamber. If the receiving space of the cistern is filled with flushing liquid again up to the upper flushing liquid level after a flush, the flushing liquid encloses the air in the second air chamber or in the second air bell. The air is thus enclosed in the second air chamber housing. The second air bell forms in particular in an upper region of the second air chamber. The second air bell is in particular made of air. The second air bell can be an air bubble.The second air bell prevents the second air chamber from filling, in particular completely, with the flushing liquid when the receiving space of the cistern is filled again with the flushing liquid up to the upper flushing liquid level after flushing. If the second air bell is formed, the second float is not or only partially in the flushing liquid. If the second air bell is formed, a first lower part of the second float can be in the flushing liquid and a second upper part of the float can be in the second air bell. As long as the second air bell is formed, in particular completely, the second buoyancy or the second buoyancy force of the second float is not sufficient to adjust, raise and / or lift the second float from the release position towards the blocking position.

[0047] When the second vent valve is closed, the air from the second air chamber or the air from the second air bell cannot escape from the second air chamber into the environment or into the cistern's intake space. As long as the second vent valve is closed, the second float remains in the release position.

[0048] The second vent valve is opened at least partially at the same time as the first vent valve or can be opened at least partially at the same time as the first vent valve. This can mean, in particular, that the first vent valve and the second vent valve are opened or can be opened at an overlapping time. The venting of the second air chamber takes place at least partially at the same time as the venting of the first air chamber. If the second vent valve is opened, the air from the second air chamber or the air from the second air bell can escape via the second vent valve into the environment or into the receiving space of the cistern. This allows the flushing liquid to flow into the second air chamber and / or the flushing liquid in the second air chamber to rise, in particular in a pulsed manner, up to the flushing liquid level of the liquid in the receiving space. This increases the second buoyancy orthe second buoyancy force of the second float is such that the second float is moved from the release position into the blocking position and blocks the valve body in the valve body open position against being moved towards the valve body closed position.

[0049] When the valve body is in the open position, the drain valve is open and the flushing fluid can flow out of the cistern's receiving space via the drain opening. The level of the flushing fluid in the cistern's receiving space drops to such an extent that the flushing fluid flows out of the second air chamber, so that the second buoyancy or the second buoyancy force of the second float is no longer sufficient to hold the second float in the blocking position. The second float can then be adjusted by gravity from the blocking position towards the release position. The flushing fluid flows out of the second air chamber more slowly than from the first air chamber, so that the second buoyancy or the second buoyancy force of the second float drops later than the first buoyancy or the first buoyancy force of the first float.When the second float has been moved from the blocking position towards the release position, the second float releases the valve body so that the valve body can be adjusted or fall into the valve body closed position under gravity. The drain valve is then closed and the flushing process is finished. The second float delays the adjustment of the valve body into the valve body closed position if, during a flushing process, the first air chamber is vented via the first vent valve and the second air chamber is vented via the second vent valve, in comparison to a flushing cycle in which only the first air chamber is vented via the first vent valve. If, during a flushing process, the first air chamber is vented via the first vent valve and, in particular at least partly simultaneously, the second air chamber is vented via the second vent valve, the second amount of flushing liquid can be released via the drain opening.If only the first air chamber is vented via the first vent valve during a rinsing process, the first amount of rinsing fluid can be released via the drain opening.

[0050] The second air chamber housing can have at least one second air chamber housing opening through which the flushing liquid can flow into the second air chamber and through which the flushing liquid can flow out of the second air chamber. The second air chamber housing can have a plurality of second air chamber housing openings, for example two second air chamber housing openings. The at least one second air chamber housing opening can connect the second air chamber to the environment or to the receiving space of the cistern. The at least one second air chamber housing opening can be formed on a second underside of the second air chamber housing and / or the second air chamber. The at least one second air chamber housing opening can be formed such that the flushing liquid can flow into the second air chamber at a greater volume flow than it can flow out.The at least one second air chamber housing opening can delay or throttle the outflow of the rinsing liquid from the second air chamber.

[0051] The second air chamber housing opening can have a throttle device for the rinsing fluid. The throttle device can be used to adjust, in particular, the volume flow with which the rinsing fluid can flow into and / or out of the second air chamber, in particular via the at least one second air chamber housing opening. The throttle device can be a slide valve or comprise a slide valve. The throttle device can alternatively or cumulatively have a flow flap. The flow flap can be designed such that the rinsing fluid can flow into the second air chamber housing faster than it can flow out. This ensures that, upon very brief actuation of an actuating element, sufficient rinsing fluid can flow into the second air chamber so that the second float can be or is adjusted to the blocking position.The throttle device can, for example, be used to adjust the size of a cross-section of the at least one second air chamber housing opening. The smaller the cross-section, the lower the volume flow rate at which the rinsing fluid can flow out of the second air chamber and / or the greater the second quantity of rinsing fluid that can be discharged via the drain opening during a rinsing process. The larger the cross-section, the greater the volume flow rate at which the rinsing fluid can flow out of the second air chamber and / or the smaller the second quantity of rinsing fluid that can be discharged via the drain opening during a rinsing process.

[0052] The second air chamber housing can have at least one liquid channel through which the flushing liquid can flow into the second air chamber. The at least one liquid channel can be at least partially tubular, pipe-shaped and / or chimney-like. The at least one liquid channel can extend from the second underside of the second air chamber housing, in particular parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis, to an upper liquid channel end into the second air chamber. A lower liquid channel end of the at least one liquid channel and the upper liquid channel end of the at least one liquid channel are in particular open. The at least one liquid channel can have a liquid channel length of, for example, 25 mm to 100 mm (in particular along its liquid channel longitudinal axis and / or parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis).The at least one liquid channel can have (in particular orthogonal to its liquid channel longitudinal axis and / or orthogonal to the valve body longitudinal axis) a liquid channel cross-section of, for example, 25 mm. 2 up to 900 mm 2The rinsing liquid can flow into the second air chamber via the at least one liquid channel, the at least one second air chamber housing opening and / or the at least one wall opening. If the rinsing liquid in the second air chamber sinks below the upper liquid channel end, the rinsing liquid cannot flow out of the second air chamber into the receiving space or into the environment via the at least one liquid channel, but in particular only via the at least one second air chamber housing opening and / or the at least one wall opening. This reduces the volume flow at which the rinsing liquid can flow out of the second air chamber compared to the volume flow at which the rinsing liquid can flow into the second air chamber. The second float can be rotatably mounted. In particular, the second float is rotatably mounted about the float rotation axis. The float rotation axis can run in a horizontal direction.The second float can be rotatably mounted with the hinge. The hinge can be arranged on the housing of the drain valve, the first air chamber housing, or the second air chamber housing.

[0053] The second float can have a blocking element for the valve body. If the valve body is in the valve body open position, the blocking element can block the valve body against adjustment of the valve body in the direction of the valve body closed position when the second float is in the blocking position. If the second float is in the blocking position, the blocking element can extend through the at least one wall opening of the second air chamber housing. The blocking element can be designed, for example, as a nose, hook, or locking element. The blocking element can be formed on a side of the second float that faces the valve body. The valve body can have a blocking geometry, in particular on the valve body outer surface.The blocking geometry can engage with the blocking element if the blocking element blocks the valve body against movement toward the valve body's closed position. The blocking geometry can be, for example, a groove, a notch, an undercut, or a slot.

[0054] The second vent valve can be connected to the second air chamber via a second vent line. The second vent line can be at least partially designed as a hose line and / or pipe line. The second vent line can have a second line length of, for example, 100 mm to 1,500 mm and / or a second line diameter of at least 6 mm, for example 6 mm to 15 mm. The second vent line can in particular be connected to a second upper side of the second air chamber housing and / or to a second pre-chamber of the first air chamber housing. The second pre-chamber can have a smaller second diameter than the second air chamber housing (in particular) in the region of the second air chamber. The second diameter can be, for example, 10 mm to 50 mm (in particular orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the valve body).The second pre-chamber can have a second pre-chamber length (in particular parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body). The second pre-chamber length can be, for example, 10 mm to 50 mm. The second pre-chamber can be formed and / or arranged above the upper rinsing liquid level of the rinsing liquid. The second pre-chamber can prevent the rinsing liquid from entering or injecting into the second vent line. The air from the second air chamber or the air from the second air bell can escape from the second air chamber via the second vent line. A second connection nipple for the second vent line can be formed on the second upper side and / or the second pre-chamber. The second vent line connects the second air chamber to the second vent valve, such that the air can flow to the second vent valve via the second vent line.The second vent valve can open and close the second vent line. Thanks to the second vent line, the second vent valve does not need to be located directly on the second air chamber housing. Thanks to the second vent line, the second vent valve can be located, for example, in or on the actuating device of the drain valve.

[0055] For further details on the drain valve, please refer to the full description of the actuating device.

[0056] According to a further aspect, a cistern for a sanitary facility is proposed, which has at least the following:

[0057] - a receiving chamber for a rinsing liquid; and

[0058] - a drain valve described here.

[0059] For further details regarding the cistern, please refer in full to the description of the drain valve. The invention and the technical environment are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. It should be noted that the figures show a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, but are not limited thereto. Identical components in the figures are provided with the same reference numerals. They show, by way of example and schematically:

[0060] Fig. 1: a sanitary facility in a first perspective view;

[0061] Fig. 2: a cistern of the sanitary facility in a perspective view;

[0062] Fig. 3: a drain valve of the cistern in a perspective view;

[0063] Fig. 4: the drain valve with a valve body in a valve body closed position in a

[0064] longitudinal section;

[0065] Fig. 5: the drain valve with the valve body in a valve body open position when dispensing a first amount of a rinsing liquid in the longitudinal section;

[0066] Fig. 6: the drain valve with the valve body in the valve body open position when dispensing a second amount of the rinsing liquid in the longitudinal section;

[0067] Fig. 7: the drain valve in a second perspective view with a view of a second underside of a second air chamber housing of the drain valve;

[0068] Fig. 8: an actuating device of the drain valve in a perspective longitudinal section;

[0069] Fig. 9: the actuating device with an actuated first actuating button in a longitudinal section; Fig. 10: the actuating device with an actuated second actuating button in the longitudinal section;

[0070] Fig. 11: the actuating device in a perspective view;

[0071] Fig. 12: a second float of the drain valve in a perspective view; and

[0072] Fig. 13: the drain valve without the second air chamber housing in a perspective view.

[0073] Fig. 1 shows a sanitary facility 38 in the form of a toilet in a perspective view. The sanitary facility 38 comprises a toilet bowl 39, which is attached to a wall 41 of a building by means of a mounting frame 40 shown in Fig. 2. The mounting frame 40 shown in Fig. 2 is concealed in Fig. 1 by a false wall 42 and wall cladding elements 43 designed in the manner of tiles. The mounting frame 40 is thus arranged in a cavity 44 between the wall 41 and the false wall 42. The false wall 42 has an opening (not visible here) that connects the cavity 44 to a space 45. The opening is covered by an actuating device 33 for actuating a drain valve 1 (shown in Figs. 3 to 7) of a cistern 2 (shown in Fig. 2). The actuating device 33 comprises a cover plate 46.

[0074] Fig. 2 shows the mounting frame 40 of the sanitary fixture 38 shown in Fig. 1 without the pre-wall 42 and the wall cladding elements 43. The cistern 2 is fastened to the mounting frame 40. The drain valve 1 shown in Figs. 3 to 7 is arranged in the cistern 2, with which the outflow of a flushing liquid from the cistern 2 to the sanitary fixture 38 shown in Fig. 1 can be controlled. The cistern 2 is connected via a flushing liquid line 47 to the toilet bowl 39 of the sanitary fixture 38 shown in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 shows the drain valve 1 in a perspective view. The drain valve 1 comprises a drain valve housing 48 with a valve body 3. The valve body 3 is designed as a valve tube and extends along a (straight) valve body longitudinal axis 49. The valve body 3 is located in Fig.3 in a valve body closed position 26, in which the valve body 3 sits on a drain opening 4 with its seal 28 attached to a lower longitudinal valve body end 50. The drain valve 1 also comprises a first air chamber housing 8 and a second air chamber housing 9.

[0075] Fig. 4 shows the drain valve 1 with the valve body 3 in the valve body closed position 26 in a longitudinal section. In the valve body closed position 26, the valve body 3 sits on the drain opening 4 with the seal 28 fastened to the lower longitudinal valve body end 50. The seal 28 is an annular flat seal. In the valve body closed position 26, flushing liquid 24 from a receiving space 37 of the cistern 2 shown in Fig. 2 can only flow out of the receiving space 37 via an upper longitudinal valve body end 51 of the valve body 3, in particular if the flushing liquid in the receiving space 37 rises above the upper longitudinal valve body end 51 of the valve body 3. This can happen, for example, in the event of a defect in a filling valve (not shown here) of the cistern shown in Fig.This may be the case with the cistern 2 shown in Figure 2, with which the receiving space 37 of the cistern 2 can be regularly filled with the flushing liquid 24 up to an upper flushing liquid level 52. The upper longitudinal valve body end 51 of the valve body 3 serves as an overflow for the flushing liquid 24. The flushing liquid 24 can flow from the upper longitudinal valve body end 51 along the valve body longitudinal axis 49 through the valve body 3 and flow out via the lower longitudinal valve body end 50 through the drain opening 4 into the flushing liquid line 47. A fluid pressure of the flushing liquid 24 in the receiving space 37 generates a closing force on an annular pressure surface 55 of the seal 28 in the valve body closed position 26 of the valve body 3, which holds the valve body 3 in the valve body closed position 26 and elastically deforms or resiliently tensions the seal 28.In addition, a mass of the valve body 3, the seal 28 and a first float 5 holds the valve body 3 in the valve body closed position 26.

[0076] The first float 5 is attached to a valve body outer surface 7 of the valve body 3. The first float 5 is open at its first float bottom 56, so that the first float 5 is cup-shaped. The first float 5 is arranged in a first air chamber 10 of the first air chamber housing 8 of the drain valve 1 and is in a closed position 14 in Fig. 4. The first air chamber housing 8 has two first air chamber housing openings 20 on its first bottom 58 (cf. Fig. 7) and a ventilation window 22 in a housing side wall 60. The first air chamber housing openings 20 and the ventilation window 22 connect the first air chamber 10 to an environment 61 of the drain valve 1 and to the receiving space 37, respectively. The first air chamber 10 is connected via a first ventilation line 29 to a first vent valve 18 shown in Figs. 3 and 8 to 11. The first ventilation line 29 is a hose line.The first vent line 29 is connected to a first connection nipple 66 of a first pre-chamber 84 of the first air chamber housing 8, which is formed on a first upper side 64 of the first air chamber housing 8. The first pre-chamber 84 is formed and / or arranged above the upper rinsing liquid level 52 of the rinsing liquid. The first pre-chamber 84 prevents the rinsing liquid from entering or being injected into the first vent line 29.

[0077] The drain valve 1 comprises a second float 6. The second float 6 is fastened in the second air chamber housing 9 via a hinge 62 so as to be rotatable about a float rotation axis 63. The rotation axis 63 runs horizontally (i.e. perpendicular to the plane of the drawing). The second float 6 is open at its second float underside 57, so that the second float 6 is cup-shaped. Fig. 12 shows the second float 6 in a perspective view. In Fig. 12 it can be seen that the second float 6 has a first rinsing liquid receptacle 86 and a second rinsing liquid receptacle 87. The rinsing liquid receptacles 86, 87 are formed on opposite sides of the second float 6. The rinsing liquid receptacles 86, 87 can hold rinsing liquid. During operation of the drain valve 1 shown in Fig. 4, the rinsing liquid receptacles 86, 87 are filled with rinsing liquid.The second float 6 is arranged in a second air chamber 11 of the second air chamber housing 9 of the drain valve 1 and is located in a release position 15 in Fig. 4. The second float 6 is rotatable about the float rotation axis 63 between the release position 15 shown in Fig. 4 and a blocking position 17 shown in Fig. 6.

[0078] The second air chamber housing 9 has a second air chamber housing opening 21 (see Fig. 7) on its second underside 59. The second air chamber housing opening 21 connects the second air chamber 11 to the environment 61 of the drain valve 1 or to the receiving space 37. The second air chamber 11 is connected via a second ventilation line 30 to a second ventilation valve 19 shown in Figs. 3 and 8 to 11. The second ventilation line 30 is a hose line. The second ventilation line 30 is connected to a second connection nipple 67 of a second pre-chamber 85 of the second air chamber housing 9, which is formed on a second upper side 65 of the second air chamber housing 9. The second pre-chamber 85 has a smaller second diameter than the second air chamber housing 9 (in particular) in the region of the second air chamber 11.The second pre-chamber 85 is formed and / or arranged above the upper flushing liquid level 52 of the flushing liquid. The second pre-chamber 85 prevents the flushing liquid from entering or being injected into the second vent line 30.

[0079] When the sanitary fixture 38 shown in Fig. 1 is flushed, the flushing liquid 24 in the receiving space 37 sinks to a first lower liquid level 53 or a second lower liquid level 54 shown in Fig. 6. This allows air from the environment 61 or from the receiving space 37 to flow both via the first air chamber housing openings 20 and / or the ventilation window 22 into the first air chamber 10 and into the first float 5 and via the second air chamber housing opening 21 and a wall opening 88 of the second air chamber housing 9 into the second air chamber 11 and into the second float 6. After flushing, the receiving space 37 is refilled with the flushing liquid 24 up to the upper flushing liquid level 52 through the filling valve (not shown here). Since the level shown in Fig.When the vent valves 18, 19 shown in Figures 3 and 8 to 11 are normally closed, a first air bell 12 (shown in dashed lines) formed from the air is formed above the ventilation window 22 in the first air chamber 10, and a second air bell 13 (shown in dashed lines) formed from the air is formed above the wall opening 88 in the second air chamber 11. The flushing fluid 24 cannot flow into the area of ​​the first air bell 12 and the area of ​​the second air bell 13 because the air cannot escape from the air chambers 10, 11 when the vent valves 18, 19 are closed.

[0080] In the closed position 14 (and with the first vent valve 18 closed), a lower part of the first float 5 is in the rinsing liquid 24 and an upper part of the float 5 is in the first air bell 12, so that an initial buoyancy of the first float 5 is not sufficient to release the valve body 3 from the valve body closed position 26 or to move it from the valve body closed position 26 to a valve body open position 27 shown in Figs. 5 and 6. There is an excess air pressure in the first air bell 12, which generates an air pressure force on the first float 5 directed towards the closed position 14. The drain valve 1 remains closed, the valve body 3 remains in the valve body closed position 26 and / or the first float 5 remains in the closed position 14, as long as the first air chamber 10 is not vented and / or the first vent valve 18 is closed.In the release position 15 (and with the second vent valve 19 closed), the second float 6 is located in the second air bell 13, so that the second float 6 does not generate a (sufficient) second buoyancy by which the second float 6 can be rotated about the float rotation axis 63 from the release position 15 shown in Fig. 4 into the blocking position 17 shown in Fig. 6. The rinsing fluid receptacles 86, 87 of the second float 6, shown in Fig. 12 and filled with rinsing fluid, are located in the rinsing fluid in the release position 15. The rinsing fluid receptacles 86, 87 filled with rinsing fluid therefore behave in a weight-neutral manner in the release position 15. The second float 6 remains in the release position 15 as long as the second air chamber 11 is not vented and / or the second vent valve 19 is closed.

[0081] Fig. 5 shows the drain valve 1 in a longitudinal section after the first air chamber 10 of the first air chamber housing 8 has been vented by opening the first vent valve 18 shown in Figs. 3 and 8 to 11 to release a first amount of the rinsing liquid 24. To release the first amount of the rinsing liquid 24, only the first vent valve 18 is opened, while the second vent valve 19 remains closed. By opening the first vent valve 18, the air in the first air bell 12 shown in Fig. 4 can escape into the environment 61 or into the receiving space 37 via the first vent line 29 and the first vent valve 18. After the first air chamber 10 has been vented and / or after the first vent valve 18 has been actuated by a user of the drain valve 1, the first vent valve 18 closes again automatically.Due to the elimination of the air pressure force and / or the fluid pressure of the flushing fluid 24, the flushing fluid 24 in the first air chamber 10 of the first air chamber housing 8 rises into the region of the first air bell 12 shown in Fig. 4, so that the first buoyancy of the first float 5 increases to such an extent that the first float 5 is moved upwards from the closed position 14 shown in Fig. 4 into an open position 16. A flow channel 23 with a channel width 25 is formed between the first float 5 and the first air chamber housing 8. The channel width 25 is dimensioned in particular horizontally and / or orthogonally to an inner wall 68 of the first air chamber housing 8.When the first air chamber 10 is vented, the flushing liquid 24 flows upwards through the flow channel 23 in a pulsed manner, so that friction and / or turbulence on the first float 5 create forces directed towards the open position 16, which assist a movement of the first float 5 into the open position 16. When the first float 5 moves into the open position 16, the first float 5 moves the valve body 3 parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis 49 from the valve body closed position 26 shown in Fig. 4 into the valve body open position 27. The movement of the valve body 3 from the valve body closed position 26 is assisted in a pulsed manner by the spring-loaded seal 28, in that the seal 28 accelerates the valve body 3 towards the valve body open position 27 by means of an elastic pulse stroke.In the valve body open position 27, the lower longitudinal valve body end 50 of the valve body 3 with the seal 28 is lifted from the drain opening 4, so that the first amount of liquid 24 can flow out via the drain opening 4 until the rinsing liquid 24 reaches the first lower rinsing liquid level 53. The valve body 3 is adjusted from the valve body open position 27 toward the valve body closed position 26 shown in Fig. 4 when the rinsing liquid level falls below an upper edge of the ventilation window 22. The rinsing liquid can then flow out of the first air chamber 10 via the ventilation window 22, and air can flow into the first air chamber 10 via the ventilation window 22.The initial buoyancy of the first float 5 decreases due to the decreasing liquid level of the liquid in the first air chamber 10, so that the valve body 3 is moved back into the valve body closed position 26 shown in Fig. 4, in particular by gravity and / or a suction effect of the flushing liquid 24. The drain valve 1 is then back in the operating situation shown in Fig. 4 and, after the flushing liquid 24 has been refilled to the upper flushing liquid level 52, can be opened again by opening the first vent valve 18.As long as the flushing liquid level of the flushing liquid in the receiving space 37 does not fall below the upper edge of the ventilation window 22, the flushing liquid cannot flow out of the first air chamber 10 via the ventilation window 22 due to a negative pressure in the first air chamber 10, whereby the first float 5 does not move towards the closed position 14 and the valve body 3 does not move towards the valve body closed position 26.

[0082] Fig. 6 shows a longitudinal section of the drain valve 1 with the valve body 3 in the valve body open position 27 during the dispensing of a second amount of rinsing liquid 24. The second amount of rinsing liquid 24 is greater than the first amount of rinsing liquid 24. In comparison to the dispensing of the first amount of rinsing liquid 24, to dispense the second amount of rinsing liquid 24, not only is the first air chamber 10 vented as previously described by opening the first vent valve 18 shown in Figs. 3 and 8 to 11, but simultaneously also the second air chamber 11 of the second air chamber housing 9. By opening the second vent valve 19 shown in Figs. 3 and 8 to 11, the air in the second air bell 13 shown in Fig. 4 can escape via the second vent line 30 and the second vent valve 19 into the environment 61 or into the receiving space 37.After the second air chamber 11 has been vented and / or after the second vent valve 19 has been actuated by the user of the drain valve 1, the second vent valve 19 closes automatically again. Due to the fluid pressure of the rinsing fluid 24, the rinsing fluid 24 flows through the second air chamber housing opening 21 and the wall opening 88 into the second air chamber 11 and rises in the second air chamber 11 of the second air chamber housing 9 into the area of ​​the second air bell 13 shown in Fig. 4, so that a second buoyancy of the second float 6 increases to such an extent that the second float 6 is moved from the release position 15 shown in Fig. 4 upwards or counterclockwise about the float rotation axis 63 into the blocking position 17.

[0083] The second float 6 has a blocking element 32 for the valve body 3, which in this case is a locking hook. The blocking element 32 is formed on a side of the second float 6 facing the valve body 3. When the second float 6 is in the blocking position 17 and the valve body 3 is in the valve body open position 27, the blocking element 32 blocks the valve body 3 in the valve body open position 27 by engaging a blocking geometry on the valve body outer surface 7 of the valve body 3. The blocking element 32 extends through the wall opening 88. As long as the blocking element 32 is in engagement with the blocking geometry of the valve body 3 or as long as the blocking element 32 blocks the valve body 3 in the valve body open position 27, a return of the valve body 3 to the valve body closed position 26 shown in Fig. 4 is prevented. The drain valve 1 orthe drain opening 4 remains open until the second float 6 or the blocking element 32 releases the valve body 3 again. In the valve body open position 27, the lower longitudinal valve body end 50 of the valve body 3 with the seal 28 is lifted from the drain opening 4, so that the second amount of liquid 24 can flow out via the drain opening 4 until the second lower flushing liquid level 54 is reached. The second lower flushing liquid level 54 is lower than the first lower flushing liquid level 53 shown in Fig. 5. As the liquid level of the flushing liquid 24 drops, the flushing liquid 24 can flow via the second air chamber housing opening 21 and via the wall opening 88 from the second air chamber 11 of the second air chamber housing 9 into the environment 61 or into the receiving space 37.As a result, the second buoyancy of the second float 6 decreases until the second float 6, in particular due to gravity, automatically moves from the blocking position 17 about the float rotation axis 63 (here clockwise) into the release position 15 shown in Fig. 4 and 5. The flushing fluid receptacles 86, 87 of the second float 6, shown in Fig. 12 and filled with flushing fluid, assist the release of the blocking element 32 from the blocking geometry of the valve body 3 and / or the adjustment of the second float 6 from the blocking position 17 into the release position 15 through their mass. The flushing fluid receptacles 86, 87 filled with flushing fluid have an excess weight and / or are not weight-neutral. Thus, the valve body 3 is released again, so that the valve body 3 falls from the valve body open position 27 into the valve body closed position 26 shown in Fig. 4 (by gravity).The drain valve 1 is then again in the operating situation shown in Fig. 4 and can be opened again by opening the first vent valve 18 or the vent valves 18, 19 after the rinsing liquid 24 has been refilled up to the upper rinsing liquid level 52.

[0084] Fig. 7 shows the drain valve 1 in a second perspective view, looking toward a second underside 59 of the second air chamber housing 9. A fluid channel 92 extends from the second underside 59 of the second air chamber housing 9, parallel to the valve body longitudinal axis 49, to an upper fluid channel end 93 into the second air chamber 11 (see Fig. 13). The flushing fluid 24 can flow into the second air chamber 11 via the fluid channel 92, the second air chamber housing opening 21, and the wall opening 88 shown in Figs. 4 and 6. If the rinsing liquid 24 in the second air chamber 11 sinks below the liquid channel end 93, the rinsing liquid 24 can no longer flow out of the second air chamber 11 into the receiving space 37 or into the environment 61 via the liquid channel 92, but only via the second air chamber housing opening 21 and the wall opening 88 shown in Figs. 4 and 6.This reduces the volume flow rate at which the flushing liquid 24 can flow out of the second air chamber 11 compared to the volume flow rate at which the flushing liquid 24 can flow into the second air chamber 11. A volume flow rate or a speed at which the flushing liquid 24 (see Fig. 6) can flow out of the second air chamber 11 via the second air chamber housing opening 21 can be controlled by a throttle device 31 of the second air chamber housing opening 21. The throttle device 31 is a slide valve with which a flow cross-section of the second air chamber housing opening 21 can be adjusted. The further the throttle device 31 is closed, the slower the flushing liquid 24 flows out of the second air chamber 11 and the longer the second float 6 shown in Fig. 6 remains in the blocking position 17.The further the throttle device 31 is closed, the greater the second quantity of rinsing liquid 24 discharged via the drain opening 4.

[0085] Fig. 8 shows the actuating device 33 of the drain valve 1 shown in Figs. 3 to 7 in a perspective longitudinal section. A first actuating element 34 and a second actuating element 35 are arranged in the cover plate 46 of the actuating device 33. The cover plate 46 is fastened to an actuating device housing 91 of the actuating device 33. The first actuating element 34 is smaller than the second actuating element 35. In Fig. 8, the first actuating element 34 is in a first starting position 78, in which the first actuating element 34 is not actuated, and the second actuating element 35 is in a second starting position 79, in which the second actuating element 35 is not actuated. The actuating elements 34, 35 are push buttons. The first quantity is controlled via the first actuating element 34 and the second quantity is controlled via the second actuating element 35 of the elements shown in Fig.4 to 6 can be discharged via the drain opening 4.

[0086] The actuating device 33 comprises a lever 36, which is rotatably mounted about a lever axis 69. The lever 36 has a first lever section 71 and a second lever section 72 at a longitudinal lever end 70. The first lever section 71 extends to the first actuating element 34, and the second lever section 72 extends to a first vent valve body 73 of the first vent valve 18. If the actuating elements 34, 35 are not pressed, as in Fig. 8, or are in their initial positions 78, 79, the vent valves 18, 19 are closed.

[0087] In Fig. 9, the first actuating element 34 of the actuating device 33 is actuated or pressed from the first starting position 78 shown in Fig. 8 (with a first stroke 89 of a maximum of 5 mm and a first actuating force of less than 5 Newtons) into a first actuating position 80. As a result, the first actuating element 34 contacts the first lever section 71 or the first actuating element 34 rotates the lever 36 via the first lever section 71 about the lever axis 69 shown in Fig. 8. The second lever section 72 of the lever 36 thereby adjusts the first vent valve body 73 to a first vent valve body open position 75. The first vent valve 18 is thus opened, so that the first air chamber 10 shown in Figs. 4 to 6 can be vented via the first vent line 29 and the first vent valve 18. By pressing the first actuating element 34 into the first actuating position 80, the first quantity of the elements shown in Fig.4 to 6 can be discharged via the drain opening 4. When the first actuating element 34 is pressed into the first actuating position 80, the second actuating element 35 remains in the second initial position 79 and the second vent valve 19 remains closed. In Fig. 10, the second actuating element 35 of the actuating device 33 is actuated or pressed from the second initial position 79 shown in Fig. 8 (with a second stroke 90 of a maximum of 5 mm and a second actuating force of less than 5 Newtons) into a second actuating position 81. As a result, a driving element 77 (see Fig. 8) of the second actuating element 35 contacts the lever 36 or rotates the lever 36 about the lever axis 69 shown in Fig. 8. The second lever section 72 of the lever 36 thereby adjusts the first vent valve body 73 into the first vent valve body open position 75.At the same time, the second actuating element 35 moves a second vent valve body 74 of the second vent valve 19 into a second vent valve body open position 76. By actuating or pressing the second actuating element 35 into the second actuating position 81, the first vent valve 18 and the second vent valve 19 are opened, so that the first air chamber 10 shown in Figs. 4 to 6 can be vented via the first vent line 29 and the first vent valve 18 and the second air chamber 11 can be vented via the second vent line 30 and the second vent valve 19. By pressing the second actuating element 35 into the second actuating position 81, the second quantity of the rinsing liquid 24 shown in Figs. 4 to 6 can be released via the drain opening 4.When the second actuating element 35 is pressed into the second actuating position 81, the first actuating element 34 remains in the first starting position 78, in particular because the first actuating element 34 is decoupled from the second actuating element 35 via the lever 36.

[0088] Fig. 11 shows the actuating device 33 in a perspective view without the cover plate 46 shown in Figs. 7 to 10. The actuating device 33 comprises a first spring 82, which holds the first actuating element 34 in the first initial position 78 when the first actuating element 34 is not actuated. The actuating device 33 comprises a second spring 83, which holds the second actuating element 35 in the second initial position 79 when the second actuating element 35 is not actuated. The present invention allows the drain valve 1 to be operated with a high degree of operating comfort.

[0089] List of reference symbols

[0090] 1 drain valve

[0091] 2 cisterns

[0092] 3 valve bodies

[0093] 4 Drain opening

[0094] 5 first swimmers

[0095] 6 second swimmer

[0096] 7 Valve body outer surface

[0097] 8 first air chamber housing

[0098] 9 second air chamber housing

[0099] 10 first air chamber

[0100] 11 second air chamber

[0101] 12 first air bell

[0102] 13 second air bell

[0103] 14 Closed position

[0104] 15 Release position

[0105] 16 Open position

[0106] 17 Blocking position

[0107] 18 first vent valve

[0108] 19 second vent valve

[0109] 20 first air chamber housing opening

[0110] 21 second air chamber housing opening

[0111] 22 ventilation windows

[0112] 23 Flow channel

[0113] 24 Flushing liquid

[0114] 25 channel width

[0115] 26 Valve body closed position 27 Valve body open position

[0116] 28 Seal

[0117] 29 first vent line

[0118] 30 second vent line 31 throttle device

[0119] 32 Blocking element

[0120] 33 Actuating device

[0121] 34 first actuating element

[0122] 35 second actuating element 36 lever

[0123] 37 Recording Room

[0124] 38 Sanitary facilities

[0125] 39 toilet bowls

[0126] 40 Mounting frame 41 Wall

[0127] 42 Pretext

[0128] 43 wall cladding elements

[0129] 44 cavity

[0130] 45 Room 46 Cover plate

[0131] 47 Flushing fluid line

[0132] 48 drain valve housing

[0133] 49 Valve body longitudinal axis

[0134] 50 lower longitudinal valve body end 51 upper longitudinal valve body end

[0135] 52 upper flushing fluid level

[0136] 53 first lower rinsing fluid level

[0137] 54 second lower flushing fluid level 55 annular pressure surface

[0138] 56 first float bottom

[0139] 57 second float bottom

[0140] 58 first subpage 59 second subpage

[0141] 60 Housing side panel

[0142] 61 Surroundings

[0143] 62 Hinge

[0144] 63 Float rotation axis 64 first top side

[0145] 65 second top side

[0146] 66 first connection nipple

[0147] 67 second connection nipple

[0148] 68 Inner wall 69 Lever axis

[0149] 70 lever end

[0150] 71 first lever section

[0151] 72 second lever section

[0152] 73 first vent valve body 74 second vent valve body

[0153] 75 first vent valve body open position

[0154] 76 second vent valve body open position

[0155] 77 Driving element

[0156] 78 first starting position 79 second starting position

[0157] 80 first operating position

[0158] 81 second operating position

[0159] 82 first spring 83 second spring

[0160] 84 first antechamber

[0161] 85 second antechamber

[0162] 86 first rinsing fluid intake 87 second rinsing fluid intake

[0163] 88 Wall opening

[0164] 89 first stroke

[0165] 90 second stroke

[0166] 91 Actuator housing 92 Fluid channel

[0167] 93 Fluid channel end

Claims

Patent claims 1. Actuating device (33) for a drain valve (1), at least comprising: - a first vent valve (18) for venting a first air chamber (10) of the drain valve (1); - a second vent valve (19) for venting a second air chamber (11) of the drain valve (1); - a lever (36) pivotally mounted on the actuator housing; - a first actuating element (34) with which the first vent valve (18) can be actuated via the lever (36); and - a second actuating element (35) with which the first vent valve (18) and the second vent valve (19) can be actuated via the lever (36).

2. Actuating device (33) according to claim 1, wherein the first actuating element (34) is adjustable from a first starting position (78) into a first actuating position (80) with a first stroke (89) of a maximum of 5 mm or the second actuating element (35) is adjustable from a second starting position (79) into a second actuating position (81) with a second stroke (90) of a maximum of 5 mm.

3. Actuating device (33) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first actuating element (34) is adjustable from a first starting position (78) into a first actuating position (80) with a first actuating force of a maximum of 5 N or the second actuating element (35) is adjustable from a second starting position (79) into a second actuating position (81) with a second actuating force of a maximum of 5 N.

4. Drain valve (1) for a cistern (2), comprising at least: - a valve body (3) for closing a drain opening (4) for a rinsing liquid (24); - a first float (5) for actuating the valve body (3), wherein the first float (5) is attached to a valve body outer surface (7) of the valve body (3); - a first air chamber housing (8) with a first air chamber (10) for forming a first air bell (12), wherein the first float (5) in the first air chamber (10) is adjustable between a closed position (14) and an open position (16); and - an actuating device (33) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first float (5) can be adjusted into the open position (16) by venting the first air chamber (10) with the aid of a first vent valve (18) of the actuating device (33).

5. Drain valve (1) according to claim 4, wherein the first air chamber housing (8) has at least one first air chamber housing opening (20) through which the rinsing liquid (24) can flow into the first air chamber (10) and through which the rinsing liquid (24) can flow out of the first air chamber (10).

6. Drain valve (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the first air chamber housing (8) has at least one ventilation window (22).

7. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 4 to 6, wherein a flow channel (23) for the rinsing liquid (24) is formed between the first float (5) and the first air chamber housing (8), which flow channel has a channel width (25) of 1 mm to 10 mm.

8. Drain valve (1) according to one of the claims 4 to 7, wherein a seal (28) of the valve body (3) for the drain opening (4) in a valve body closed position (26) of the Valve body (3) a force can be generated in the direction of a valve body open position (27) of the valve body (3).

9. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the first vent valve (18) is connected to the first air chamber (10) via a first vent line (29).

10. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 4 to 9, comprising: - a second float (6); - a second air chamber housing (9) with a second air chamber (11) for forming a second air bell (13), wherein the second float (6) in the second air chamber (11) is adjustable between a release position (15) and a blocking position (17), wherein the second float (6) in the blocking position (17) prevents the valve body (3) from being adjusted into a valve body closed position (26) and wherein the second float (6) is adjustable into the blocking position (17) by venting the second air chamber (11) with the aid of a second vent valve (19) of the actuating device (33).

11. Drain valve (1) according to claim 10, wherein the second air chamber housing (9) has at least one second air chamber housing opening (21) through which the rinsing liquid (24) can flow into the second air chamber (11) and through which the rinsing liquid (24) can flow out of the second air chamber (11).

12. Drain valve (1) according to claim 11, wherein the second air chamber housing opening (21) has a throttle device (31) for the rinsing liquid (24).

13. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the second air chamber housing (9) has at least one liquid channel (89) through which the rinsing liquid (24) can flow into the second air chamber (11).

14. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the second float (6) is rotatably mounted.

15. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the second float (6) has a blocking element (32) for the valve body (3).

16. Drain valve (1) according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the second vent valve (19) is connected to the second air chamber (11) via a second vent line (30).

17. A cistern (2) for a sanitary device (38), comprising at least: a receiving space (37) for a flushing liquid (24); and a drain valve (1) according to one of claims 4 to 16.

Images