Safety system for a birthing pool device, and birthing pool device
The birthing tub safety system addresses the challenge of post-use cleaning by implementing automated residual emptying and backflow prevention, ensuring efficient and safe operation with reduced manual effort.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/EP2025/065141
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-06-03
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-02
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-11
AI Technical Summary
Existing birthing tub systems require significant effort for cleaning and disinfection after use, and there is a risk of residual water remaining that is difficult to access and remove, which can compromise hygiene and safety.
A safety system for birthing tubs that includes an inlet unit, outlet unit, piping system, system separation device, reservoir, sensor device, pump device, and control device for automated residual emptying, ensuring water is pumped into the wastewater system when flow ceases, and features like a separating valve and drain section to prevent backflow and stagnation.
Automated residual emptying ensures reliable and efficient cleaning with minimal personnel effort, preventing residual water and enhancing hygiene and safety by ensuring complete drainage and preventing backflow.
Smart Images

Figure EP2025065141_11122025_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Safety system for a birthing tub facility and
[0002] birthing tub equipment
[0003] The invention relates to a safety system for a birthing tub with an inlet unit connectable to a drinking water supply system, an outlet unit, and a piping system. The invention also relates to a birthing tub with such a safety system.
[0004] A water birth in a birthing tub often reduces pain during labor and usually results in a shorter labor, as well as frequently providing the mother with a greater sense of relaxation and security. Therefore, birthing tubs are sometimes also called relaxation tubs. A birthing tub is described, for example, in KR 20 0 190 610 Y1.
[0005] From a clinical perspective, it is crucial that the birthing tub can be used and cleaned hygienically, safely, and reliably, while requiring minimal time and personnel. To this end, the plumbing system is typically equipped with a backflow preventer. This prevents backflowing water, which may have come into contact with harmful substances or germs, from re-entering the drinking water supply system.
[0006] Overall, existing birthing tub systems offer a high degree of safety and hygiene. However, there is still room for technical improvement regarding the effort required for cleaning and disinfection after use. In contrast, the present invention aims to improve the use, cleaning, and safety of a birthing tub system.
[0007] German patent application DE 20 2021 104 440 Ul discloses a drinking water installation for a multi-story residential building with multiple draw-off points (faucets, showers, toilets). A flushing control system monitors whether stagnation or cooling occurs due to a lack of water usage at the draw-off points. If this occurs, flushing valves are opened, and the stagnant drinking water is flushed via flushing lines and a free outlet into a container. To conserve water, the flushed water is not discharged into the wastewater system but collected in the container and used for plant irrigation or a water play area.
[0008] German patent DE 10 2019 132 463 A1 discloses a pipe arrangement for the pretreatment of drinking water using a filter unit. If the filter unit is undersized, the flow resistance is too high. If the filter unit is sufficiently large, microorganisms can colonize it during periods of low or no water consumption due to the large contact surface. The proposed solution is to reduce the size of the filter unit and incorporate a measuring device to determine the pressure difference between the inlet and outlet of the filter unit. Depending on this pressure difference, a pump is then activated, so that the additional pumping capacity can compensate for the pressure drop in the filter unit when water demand increases.
[0009] From DE 39 28 464 A1, a whirlpool tub is known which must be emptied manually. After emptying, fresh water or air is pumped through the system. Additionally, a final rinse with hot air can be performed. This is intended to achieve improved cleaning and drying of the emptied tub, thereby saving on disinfectant. This objective is achieved by a safety system with the features of claim 1. A birthing tub device according to the invention is the subject of claim 21. Preferred embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims. Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the general description and the description of the exemplary embodiments.
[0010] The safety system according to the invention is designed for a birthing tub and comprises at least one inlet unit connectable to a drinking water supply system and at least one outlet unit. The outlet unit can, in particular, be connected to a shower head. The safety system includes a piping system that connects the inlet unit and the outlet unit. The safety system includes a system separation device arranged between the first piping section and a second piping section in the piping system. The system separation device serves to protect against backflow into the drinking water supply system and, in particular, at least into the first piping section. The safety system includes, in particular, a reservoir arranged downstream of the system separation device or in the second piping section for storing water.The safety system includes, in particular, a sensor device designed to detect water flow in the piping system, and especially water flow upstream of the tank or in the first section of the piping. The safety system includes, in particular, at least one pump device for pumping water from the tank to the outlet. The safety system includes, in particular, a control device for controlling the pump device based on a sensor signal from the sensor device. Specifically, the control device can control the pump device based on the sensor-detected water flow in the piping system. The control device is suitable and designed to perform (automatic) residual emptying by means of a safety device based on the sensor-detected water flow in the piping system.The control device is suitable and designed to pump at least the water from the tank and / or from the second pipe section into a wastewater system or to a wastewater connection for coupling with the wastewater system by means of the pumping device.
[0011] The present invention offers many advantages. A significant advantage is the automated residual emptying at the end of a bathing or bathing session. This reliably prevents residual water from remaining after use, which would otherwise be difficult to access and remove. Furthermore, the residual emptying requires no additional personnel or labor. The residual emptying based on the sensor-detected water flow is also particularly advantageous. This makes use and treatment / cleaning even safer, as the residual emptying occurs reliably, for example, immediately after the shower head is turned off, and cannot be forgotten even under stressful conditions in everyday clinical practice. Overall, the present invention offers a very reliable and, at the same time, particularly simple method of preparing the birthing tub.
[0012] The safety system includes, in particular, at least one wastewater connection that can be connected to the wastewater system. When, within the scope of the present invention, a separation from or connection to the wastewater or drinking water supply system is mentioned, a standard installation condition is assumed. The terms upstream and downstream refer specifically to the intended flow direction. Preferably, the control device is suitable and configured to perform residual drainage at least when the water flow in the pipe system is below a defined threshold for a defined period of time. The defined period can be one, two, or more seconds. It can also be half a minute, one minute, two, five, ten, or more minutes.In particular, the defined time interval is stored in the control unit. This time interval can be adjustable. It can also be set to zero. In this case, residual drainage is carried out as soon as the water flow in the pipe system falls below the threshold. The threshold is specifically designed to indicate a closed outlet unit.
[0013] The defined threshold can be zero or greater than zero. Specifically, residual emptying is performed when there is no water flow or a correspondingly low water flow in the piping system. Residual emptying can be carried out when, or as soon as, there is no water flow in the piping system. In a further development, residual emptying can also be carried out by user input or within the context of an operating state and, for example, a treatment mode. Preferably, the control device is suitable and configured to carry out residual emptying at least when the outlet unit has been closed (and the water flow in the piping system thereby falls below the threshold).
[0014] In particular, the safety system includes at least one drain section for residual drainage. Specifically, the drain section connects the second pipe section downstream of the pump unit to a wastewater connection for coupling with the wastewater system. The drain section branches off from the second pipe section at a junction point. Specifically, the junction point is located downstream of the pump unit and upstream of the outlet unit. The drain section includes, in particular, at least one drain line or is configured as such.
[0015] In an advantageous embodiment, the control device is suitable and configured to open a flow connection between the second pipe section and the draining section, at least during residual emptying, by means of at least one controllable valve assembly. Preferably, the control direction is suitable and configured to block a flow connection from the pump assembly to the outlet unit, at least during residual emptying, by means of at least one controllable valve assembly. This reliably prevents water from reaching the outlet unit during residual emptying.
[0016] In particular, the safety system comprises at least one controllable valve assembly. The valve assembly specifically comprises at least one valve and preferably at least two or more valves. The valve is, for example, a solenoid valve or the like. In particular, the valves can be opened and closed independently of one another. In particular, a first valve is provided for blocking and releasing the flow connection between the second pipe section and the drain section. In particular, at least a second valve is provided for releasing and blocking the flow connection from the pump assembly to the outlet unit.
[0017] The control device is preferably designed and configured to block the flow connection between the second pipe section and the drain section by means of at least one controllable valve device and / or to open the flow connection from the pump unit to the outlet unit when no residual drainage occurs and / or when the water flow in the pipe system is above a defined threshold value. This ensures that the shower water has no flow connection whatsoever to the drain section or the wastewater system connected to it.
[0018] It is preferred and advantageous that the drain section can be separated from the wastewater system by means of at least one separating device. In particular, the drain section is separated from a wastewater connection for coupling to the wastewater system. Preferably, the separating device is suitable and designed to counteract backflow of wastewater or water from the wastewater system into the drain section and, in particular, also into the rest of the piping system.
[0019] The separating device provides, in particular, a free and unobstructed and at least partially open space between an outlet opening of the drainage section and an inlet opening of the wastewater system. Specifically, the separating device includes at least one free flow path for the water that exits the drainage section and enters the wastewater system.
[0020] In a preferred and advantageous embodiment, the sensor device is suitable and configured to activate at least one further component, and in particular at least the control device, by means of an (electrical) switching device, depending on the water flow in the piping system. Specifically, the control device is activated when the water flow in the piping system exceeds a defined threshold. In particular, the control device is activated as soon as water flow in the piping system is detected by the sensor device. This means, for example, that only the inlet unit or the mixing valve needs to be opened, and the system is automatically activated. No additional switches or the like need to be operated.
[0021] In particular, the safety system includes at least one switching device to also switch off the switching device of the sensor unit. For example, a main switch or similar device is provided to switch off or de-energize the entire safety system or the birthing tub unit.
[0022] The control device is preferably designed and configured to monitor the fill level of the container system using sensors. In particular, the control device is designed and configured to block the piping system upstream of the container system, and preferably in the first section of the piping, by means of a controllable valve unit when a defined fill level is reached. The sensor system described in more detail below is specifically provided for this purpose.
[0023] In an advantageous further development, the valve unit is designed and configured to block the piping system when it is de-energized. This prevents, for example, unwanted water withdrawal during a power outage. Specifically, the valve unit is closed when de-energized. The valve unit must be actively opened (by applying power). In a rest mode or standby, the valve unit is open, allowing the sensor to detect water flow in the piping system when the inlet unit is opened.
[0024] Preferably, the control device is suitable and configured to open the valve unit when the (sensor-monitored) fill level in the tank falls below a threshold value. In particular, the control device is suitable and configured to activate emergency operation when a maximum or critically high fill level of the tank occurs. Specifically, a safety cut-off circuit is provided in emergency operation.
[0025] Preferably, the container assembly comprises at least one container body with a water-fillable chamber. In particular, the container body includes at least one outlet opening located at the lowest point of the chamber. Preferably, the inner surface of the container body facing the chamber is completely flat or smooth, at least up to the intended fill level. Preferably, the inner surface of the container body facing the chamber slopes exclusively towards the outlet opening, at least up to the intended fill level. Such a container body can also be described as having an edgeless design. This further simplifies processing, as it prevents the formation of unwanted water accumulations that would otherwise require time-consuming removal or drying.
[0026] In particular, the container body has no protrusions and / or depressions on its inner surface facing the container space (at least below the intended filling level). In particular, all mounting points for securing the container body are located on the outside. In particular, the container body has no penetrations at least up to the intended filling level (apart from the outlet opening). At least one inlet opening may be provided in the area of the intended filling level.
[0027] In a preferred and advantageous embodiment, the container body is formed in one piece. In particular, the container body is manufactured by an additive manufacturing process. Preferably, the container body is manufactured by a three-dimensional printing process. The container body can also be formed as an injection-molded part, a molded part, or the like. In particular, the container body is made of a food-grade material, such as a plastic and / or a metal alloy.
[0028] The safety system preferably includes a sensor system for detecting the fill level in the container. The sensor system preferably includes at least one fill level sensor.
[0029] Preferably, the at least one level sensor is arranged on an outer surface of the container body facing away from the container space. In particular, the at least one level sensor is designed as a capacitive level sensor.
[0030] Preferably, at least two, or more preferably at least three, level sensors are provided. In particular, a first level sensor serves to detect a minimum level (lower threshold for the level). In particular, at least a second level sensor serves to detect the defined level. In particular, at least a third level sensor serves to monitor a maximum level (in particular for activating emergency operation). In particular, at least three capacitive level sensors are provided.
[0031] In particular, a wall of the container body is arranged between the interior of the container and the at least one level sensor. In particular, all level sensors (and any other sensors) are arranged outside the container interior. In particular, the level is detected without contact. In particular, all sensor units and / or level sensors have no contact with the water.
[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, the container assembly comprises at least one baffle wall for calming the water entering the container body and / or for shielding a (non-contact) level sensor from injecting water. In particular, the at least one baffle wall is formed on a lid that can be placed on the container body. Specifically, the at least one baffle wall projects downwards into the container space. The container assembly also includes at least one lid. In particular, the lid can be attached to an outer surface of the container body and, for example, locked in place or the like.
[0033] In particular, at least one (first) baffle is provided to shield the level sensor (sensor baffle), and at least one further (second) baffle is provided to calm the incoming water (calming baffle). In particular, the lid and / or the at least one baffle have no protrusions and / or depressions. In particular, the lid and / or the at least one baffle are flat or smooth and preferably designed without edges. In particular, the lid is integrally connected to the at least one baffle.
[0034] The outlet opening preferably includes at least one threaded section, which is integrally formed with the container body. In particular, the threaded section serves to connect the second pipe section. This enables a particularly hygienic and safe connection of the container to the piping system.
[0035] The applicant reserves the right to claim a container device for a security system. The container device is, in particular, at least partially designed as described herein. The container device also solves the aforementioned task particularly advantageously.
[0036] The system separation device preferably comprises at least one separating valve with at least one free flow path, which preferably extends between a valve outlet opening and a valve inlet opening. The separating valve includes at least one drain opening by means of which water can be discharged from the free flow path (into the wastewater system). In particular, the water can exit at the valve outlet opening, then pass through the free flow path via the drain opening, and then re-enter at the valve inlet opening.
[0037] The valve outlet opening faces the first pipe section. The valve inlet opening faces the second pipe section or the tank assembly. The valve outlet and inlet openings are located on opposite end sections of the separating valve. The end section with the valve outlet opening is connected to the first pipe section and preferably bolted in place. The drain opening is connected to the wastewater system. Preferably, a free, unobstructed, and at least partially open gap is formed between the drain opening and an inlet opening of the wastewater system. The system separation device enables system separation according to DIN EN 13079.
[0038] In an advantageous embodiment, the separating valve is designed as an injector unit with a water jet nozzle. The water jet nozzle is provided, in particular, by the valve outlet opening. The water released by the water jet nozzle then re-enters the separating valve at the valve inlet opening. The injector unit is, in particular, a type AD valve according to DIN EN 1717. Other suitable designs of separating valves are also possible.
[0039] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the separating valve is formed in one piece. Preferably, the separating valve is designed without moving parts. In particular, the separating valve is made of a stainless steel alloy or another suitable food-grade material. In an advantageous further development, the separating valve extends with an end section, on which the valve inlet opening is located, through an inlet opening of the container body of the container system into the container space. It is preferred and advantageous that the end section is integrally connected to a flange. In particular, the flange completely covers the inlet opening on an inner surface of the container body facing the container space. This allows the separating valve to be coupled to the container body without creating areas where water could accumulate.At the same time, the separating valve and tank equipment can be installed easily and safely. In particular, the flange features a seamless design.
[0040] It is preferred and advantageous that the safety system comprises at least one drain unit with at least one wastewater connection for connection to the wastewater system. The drain unit includes at least one drain chamber in which the drain opening of the separating valve is located. It is preferred that the drain section also opens into the drain chamber. This allows the separating valve and the drain section to be housed in a space-saving manner and installed with minimal effort.
[0041] The connection unit provides, in particular, an inlet opening for the wastewater system. The drain chamber provides, in particular, a free, unobstructed, and at least partially open space between the outlet opening of the drain section and the inlet opening of the wastewater system and / or between the outlet opening of the separating valve and the inlet opening of the wastewater system. The drain spigot unit comprises, in particular, a housing body that encloses the drain chamber. The drain spigot unit is, in particular, formed in one piece. In particular, the drain spigot unit can be mounted on the tank assembly. In particular, the drain spigot unit has a thread that is formed integrally with the housing body. The drain section can, in particular, be screwed onto the thread. In particular, the connection unit provides the separating device.In particular, the drain nozzle unit provides a mounting structure for the separating valve and / or the drain section.
[0042] It is possible and advantageous for the safety device to include a drying unit for drying at least the container assembly and / or a section of the piping after residual emptying. The drying unit can also be used to dry the birthing tub. The drying unit is particularly suitable and designed to dry using an airflow and / or compressed air.
[0043] The birthing tub device according to the invention comprises a safety system as described herein. The birthing tub device also solves the previously stated problem particularly advantageously. The right to claim a method for operating a birthing tub device or a safety system is reserved.
[0044] The control device comprises, in particular, at least one electronic control unit or the like. The control device comprises, in particular, at least one algorithm and is suitable and configured to perform the steps and functions described herein. The applicant reserves the right to claim a method for operating a security system. In particular, the method is configured such that the security system according to the invention or its further developments can be operated thereunder.
[0045] The inlet unit includes, in particular, at least one shut-off device and, for example, a fitting. In particular, the inlet unit includes a mixing valve or is designed as such. In particular, the inlet unit is connectable to a hot water connection and a cold water connection.
[0046] In particular, the sensor device comprises at least one sensor unit. The sensor device may also comprise at least two or more sensor units. The at least one sensor unit is, in particular, designed as a flow sensor. In particular, the water flow in the piping system can be detected without contact. For example, the at least one sensor unit is designed as a capacitive sensor. Other suitable sensor designs are also possible.
[0047] In particular, the sensor device allows for the detection of a parameter for the instantaneous flow rate in the piping system, and especially in the first section of the pipe. Specifically, the water flow rate, or this parameter, is used to control the pump system, particularly its delivery rate. The water flow rate, or this parameter, is also used to control the safety device.
[0048] Preferably, the control unit performs the residual emptying based on a sensor signal from the sensor device. In particular, at least one common sensor unit is provided, which detects the water flow during the bathing or throughput process and also during residual emptying. Alternatively, at least two or more separate sensor units may be provided.
[0049] The pumping system comprises, in particular, at least one pump and, for example, at least one diaphragm pump or another suitable pump type. Specifically, a single pump is provided for pumping water from the tank to the outlet unit and for the safety device. This saves installation space and components. In such a design, the term "pumping system" can be used synonymously with the term "pump".
[0050] It is also possible that the pumping system includes at least one (first) pump for pumping water from the tank to the outlet unit and at least one (second) pump for the safety device. The position of the branch point refers in particular to a common pump or to the first and / or second pump. Specifically, the flow connection from the common pump or the first and / or second pump to the outlet unit can be shut off or opened by means of the valve assembly.
[0051] The birthing tub equipment includes, in particular, a birthing tub (with a tub body that can be filled with water) or is designed as such. The term "birthing tub" also specifically refers to a relaxation tub and / or a bathtub for medical or clinical use.
[0052] In particular, the control unit can automatically perform a residual drain if the sensor-detected water flow in the pipe system upstream of the backflow preventer falls below a threshold value, for example, when bathing or showering has ended. For the residual drain, at least the water from the tank and the second pipe section (i.e., the water downstream of the backflow preventer) is pumped into a wastewater system (and not to the outlet unit or, for example, the shower head). In other words, the water flow upstream of the backflow preventer is monitored to determine whether or not the water downstream of the backflow preventer should be pumped into the wastewater system.In particular, no residual emptying takes place if the sensor-detected water flow in the pipe system upstream of the system separation device is above a threshold value (e.g., if someone is currently bathing or showering).
[0053] Further advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the embodiments, which are explained below with reference to the accompanying figures.
[0054] It shows:
[0055] Fig. 1 is a purely schematic representation of a
[0056] Birthing tub device with a safety system according to the invention in a perspective view;
[0057] Fig. 2 is a highly schematic representation of the
[0058] security systems and their interconnection;
[0059] Fig. 3 is a purely schematic representation of a
[0060] Container setup in a perspective view;
[0061] Fig. 4 shows the container device in a side view;
[0062] Fig. 5 shows a lid of the container device in a
[0063] Side view;
[0064] Fig. 6 is a purely schematic representation of a
[0065] System separation device in a side view;
[0066] Fig. 7 is a purely schematic representation of a
[0067] Drain unit in a side view; and
[0068] Fig. 8 shows the drain nozzle unit in a perspective view.
[0069] Opinion .
[0070] Figure 1 shows a birthing tub device 100 with a birthing tub 103 and a safety system 1 according to the invention, which is essentially not visible here and is housed within the birthing tub device 100. The birthing tub device 100 and the safety system 1 are described below by way of example with reference to Figures 1 and 2.
[0071] A connection to a drinking water supply system 101 is made via an inlet unit 2 designed as a mixing valve 32. An outlet tap for filling the birthing tub 103 with water is connected to the mixing valve 32. An outlet unit 12 is connected to the mixing valve 32 via a pipe system 3. A shower head 22 is connected to the outlet unit 12.
[0072] A flow sensor 26 of a sensor device 6 is integrated into the piping system 3 downstream of the mixing valve 32 and measures the instantaneous water flow. The sensor device 6 outputs a value for the water flow, for example, in liters per minute. This flow rate serves as a setpoint for controlling the flow rate, enabling immediate responses to changes.
[0073] The flow sensor 26 can be equipped with a switching device 16, which is activated when water flows through it. This allows other components, such as the control device 10 and / or the pump device 7 described below, to be activated when water flows through it.
[0074] Downstream of the flow sensor 26, the water flows through a controllable valve unit 15, which here functions as a safety shut-off. The valve unit 15 closes automatically when the highest fill level in the (described in more detail below) tank assembly 5 is detected by the sensor. This reliably prevents overflow and backflow. The valve unit 15 is locked in the de-energized state, so that safety is still ensured in the event of a power failure.
[0075] Downstream of the valve unit 15, a system separation device 4 with a separating valve 14 is installed to protect the drinking water against backflow. The separating valve 14 divides the piping system 3 into a first piping section 13 and a second piping section 23.
[0076] After the water passes through the separating valve 14, it enters a storage tank 5, where it is initially stored. The storage tank 5 is hygienically designed in accordance with the requirements for drinking water protection and the Drinking Water Ordinance, as well as in accordance with clinical requirements for treatment. Such a storage tank 5 is shown, for example, in Figures 3 to 5.
[0077] A sensor system 25 with a total of three level sensors 251, 252, 253 is provided to monitor the fill level in the tank unit 5. Due to their arrangement on three different levels, a maximum water level for safety shutdown, a defined fill level for normal operation or shower operation, and a minimum fill level can be reliably detected.
[0078] A pump unit 7 conveys water from the tank unit 5 via the second pipe section 23 to the outlet unit 12 and then to the shower head 22. The pump unit 7 is controlled and regulated based on the water flow detected by a sensor in the first pipe section 13. For this purpose, the pump unit 7, the sensor unit 6, the sensor system 25, and the valve unit 15 are operatively connected to a control unit 10. The pump unit 7 is, for example, a diaphragm pump that provides an appropriate water jet at the shower head 22.
[0079] When the shower head 22 is operated, the control unit 10 controls a valve assembly 28 with two valve units 280 and 281. During shower operation, valve unit 280 is closed and valve unit 281 is open, so that the flow is controlled towards the shower head 22.
[0080] To simplify and automate the necessary hygienic reprocessing after use, the safety system 1 is equipped with a safety device 8 that can be controlled by the control unit 10. Using the safety device 8, the control unit 10 performs a residual drain if the sensor-detected water flow in the piping system 3 falls below a defined threshold (especially for a defined period of time). For example, the threshold is reached when the process is completed and the mixing valve 32 is closed.
[0081] The safety device 8 includes a drain section 18, which branches off downstream of the pump unit 7 from the second pipe section 23 and leads to a wastewater connection 33, which is connected to the wastewater system 102. Drain section 18 is separated from the wastewater system 102 by means of a separating device 48, thus preventing backflow from the wastewater system 102 into drain section 18.
[0082] The separating device 48 is housed here in a drain unit 38, which also contains the separating valve 14 and into which the drain section 18 also opens. The wastewater connection 33 is also provided by the drain unit 38.
[0083] For residual emptying, for example after completion of the process, the control unit 10 closes the valve unit 281 and opens the valve unit 280, so that the draining section 18 is connected to the second pipe section 23 and the tank assembly 5. The control unit 10 then activates the pump assembly 7, so that the water from the tank assembly 5 and the second pipe section 23 is pumped via the draining section 18 into the wastewater system 102. This residual emptying reliably prevents stagnation and thus any potential distribution of the water. Figures 3 and 4 show a tank assembly 5 with a tank body 35, such as can be used in the previously described safety system 1. The tank body 35 encloses a reservoir 351 for storing the water. The water flows into the reservoir 351 through an inlet opening 350.The water enters the second pipe section 23 via an outlet opening 352. The container body 35 is integrally connected to the outlet opening 352 via a thread 353, to which the second pipe section 23 is connected.
[0084] Sensor holders 65 for the sensor system 25 are arranged on an outer surface of the container body 35, so that the level sensors 251, 252, 253 do not come into contact with the water. For example, capacitive sensors are used.
[0085] The container body 35 shown here has an edgeless design and exhibits inclines or slopes only in the direction of the outlet opening 352. This reliably prevents water from remaining in the container chamber 351 after complete emptying.
[0086] Figure 5 shows a lid 55 of the container device 5 for closing the container body 35. The lid 55 can be locked onto the container body 35 via corresponding locking lugs.
[0087] Two baffles 45 are arranged on the lid 55, extending downwards into the container chamber 351. One baffle 45 serves to prevent the water flowing from the separating valve 14 into the container chamber 351 from directly impacting the wall in the area of the sensor system 25. This improves the reliability of the level monitoring. The other baffle 45 serves to calm the water flowing from the separating valve 14 into the container chamber 351.
[0088] The lid 55 also features a seamless design and slopes exclusively downwards. This ensures that no water remains on the lid 55 after emptying.
[0089] Impact walls 45.
[0090] Figure 6 shows a separating valve 14 designed as an injector unit 64 of the system separation device 4. The separating valve 14 has a valve outlet opening 24 and a valve inlet opening 34 and a free flow path 44 formed between them.
[0091] At the valve outlet opening 24, the water exits from the first
[0092] Pipe section 13. At the valve inlet opening 34, the water, after passing through the flow section 44, re-enters the separating valve 14 and from there flows directly into the tank chamber 351 (when the separating valve 14 is properly connected to the tank assembly 5). A water jet nozzle 74 is provided in the area of the valve outlet opening 24, so that the water is directed precisely through the flow section 44 to the valve inlet opening 34. A drain opening 54 is associated with the flow section 44. The water can flow out through the drain opening 54 into the drain nozzle unit 38.
[0093] In its intended installed state, the separating valve 14, with its end section 140 on which the valve inlet opening 34 is located, extends through the inlet opening 350 of the tank body 35 into the tank chamber 351. This allows the water from the separating valve 14 to flow directly into the tank chamber 351. To effectively prevent stagnant water, the end section 140 is equipped with a flange 141. The flange 141 is integrally formed with the separating valve 14 and surrounds the inlet opening 350 on the inside of the tank chamber 351.
[0094] Figures 7 and 8 show a drain nozzle unit 38, which can be advantageously used, for example, in the safety system 1 presented with reference to Figure 2. The drain nozzle unit 38 provides a drain chamber 380 into which both the drain opening 54 of the separating valve 14 and the draining section 18 open.
[0095] For connection to the drain section 18, a thread 381 is integrally integrated into the drain spigot unit 38. Within the drain chamber 380, a free and open flow path leads to the wastewater connection 33. To reliably prevent backflow, the drain chamber 380 is equipped with an opening to the outside or to an installation space for the birthing tub unit 100. The drain spigot unit 38 also provides the separating device 48. As a further functional integration, the drain spigot unit 38 also serves to attach the separating valve 14.
[0096] Reference symbol list:
[0097] 1 Safety system 48 Separating device
[0098] 2 Admission unit 54 Opening procedure
[0099] 3 pipe system 55 cover
[0100] 4 System separation unit 64 Injector unit 65 Sensor holder
[0101] 5. Does it retain equipment 74? Water jet nozzle
[0102] 6 sensor devices, 100 birthing tub devices
[0103] 7 Pumping unit 101 Drinking water server
[0104] 8 Safety device system
[0105] 10 Control unit 102 Wastewater system
[0106] 12 outlet unit 103 birthing tub
[0107] 13 Line section 140 End section
[0108] 14 Separating valve 141 Flange
[0109] 15 Valve unit 251 Fill level sensor
[0110] 16 Switching device 252 Level sensor
[0111] 18 Drainage section 253 Fill level sensor
[0112] 22 Shower head 280 Valve unit
[0113] 23 Line area 281 Valve unit
[0114] 24 Valve outlet opening 350 Inlet opening
[0115] 25 Sensor system 351 Container space
[0116] 26 Flow sensor 352 Outlet opening
[0117] 28 Valve assembly 353 Thread
[0118] 32 mixing valve 380 drain chamber
[0119] 33 Wastewater connection s 381 thread
[0120] 34 Valve inlet opening 382 Section
[0121] 35 Does he retain body
[0122] 38 Expiry nozzle unit
[0123] 44 Flowing section
[0124] 45 Impact wall
Claims
Claims:
1. Safety system (1) for a birthing tub facility (100) ,comprising an inlet unit (2) connectable to a drinking water supply system (101) and an outlet unit (12) which can be coupled, in particular, to a shower head (12a) and a pipe system (3) connecting the inlet unit (2) and the outlet unit (12) to each other and a system separation device (4) arranged between a first pipe section (13) and a second pipe section (23) in the pipe system (3) for protection against backflow into the drinking water supply system (101) and a tank device (5) arranged downstream of the system separation device (4) for storing water and a sensor device (6) at least for detecting a water flow in the pipe system (3) and at least one pump device (7) for pumping water from the tank device (5) to the outlet unit (12) and a control device (10) for controlling the pump device (7) depending on a sensor signal from the sensor device (6) , characterized in thatthat the control device (10) is suitable and designed to carry out residual emptying by means of a safety device (8) depending on the sensor-detected water flow in the piping system (3) and to pump at least the water from the tank device (5) and the second piping section (23) into a wastewater system (102) by means of the pump device (7).
2. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the control device (10) is suitable and designed to carry out the residual emptying at least when the water flow in the piping system (3) is below a defined threshold value for a defined period of time.
3. Security system (1) according to one of the preceding Claims comprising a drain section (18) for residual draining, which connects the second line section (23) downstream of the pump device (7) to a wastewater connection (33) for coupling with the wastewater system (102).
4. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the control device (10) is suitable and designed to release a flow connection between the second line section (23) and the draining section (18) at least during residual emptying by means of at least one controllable valve device (28) and to block a flow connection from the pump device (7) to the outlet unit (12).
5. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the control device (10) is suitable and configured to operate by means of the at least one controllable valve device (28) to block the flow connection between the second pipe section (23) and the drain section (18) and to release the flow connection from the pump unit (7) to the outlet unit (12) if no residual draining takes place and / or if the water flow in the pipe system (3) is above a defined threshold value.
6. Safety system (1) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the draining section (18) is separable from the wastewater system (102) by means of a separating device (48) and wherein the separating device (48) is suitable and designed to counteract a backflow of (waste) water from the wastewater system (102) into the draining section (18).
7. Safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor device (6) is suitable and configured to detect at least one fault by means of a switching device (16). to put another component and in particular at least the control unit (10) into an active mode.
8. Safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control device (10) is suitable and designed to sensorially monitor the fill level of the container device (5) and, upon reaching a defined fill level, to block the line system (3) upstream of the container device (5) and preferably in the first line area (13) by means of a controllable valve unit (15).
9. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the valve unit (15) blocks the piping system (3) when it is in a de-energized state.
10. Safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container device (5) comprises at least one container body (35) with a water-fillable container space (351) and at least one outlet opening (352) arranged at a lowest point of the container space (351), wherein the container body (35) is exclusively flat or smooth on an inner side facing the container space (351) up to the intended filling level and / or has exclusively a slope towards the outlet opening (352).
11. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the container body (35) is formed in one piece and is produced in particular by an additive process.
12. Safety system (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, comprising a sensor system (25) for detecting a fill level in the container space (351) with at least one fill level sensor (251, 252, 253), wherein the at least one fill level sensor (251, 252, 253) is arranged on an outer surface of the container body (35) facing away from the container space (351) and is in particular a capacitive Level sensor (251, 252, 253) is designed.
13. Safety system (1) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the container device (5) comprises at least one baffle wall (45) for calming the water entering the container body (35) and / or for shielding a level sensor (251, 252, 253) and wherein the at least one baffle wall (45) is formed on a lid (55) that can be placed on the container body (35) so that it projects from above into the container space (351).
14. Safety system (1) according to one of the four preceding claims, wherein the outlet opening (352) has a thread (353) which is formed integrally with the container body (35).
15. Safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the system separation device (4) comprises at least one separating valve (14) with at least one free flow path (44) extending between a valve outlet opening (24) and a valve inlet opening (34) and with at least one drain opening (54), wherein water can be discharged from the free flow path (44) by means of the drain opening (54).
16. Safety system (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the separating fitting (14) is designed as an injector unit (64) with a water jet nozzle (74).
17. Safety system (1) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the separating fitting (14) is designed as a single piece and / or without moving parts.
18. Safety system (1) according to one of the three preceding claims, wherein the separating fitting (14) with an end section (140) on which the fitting inlet opening (34) is located, through an inlet opening (350) of a container body (35) of the Container device (5) extends into a container space (351) and wherein this end section (140) is integrally connected to a flange (141) and wherein the flange (141) fully covers the inlet opening (350) on an inner side of the container body (35) facing the container space (351).
19. Safety system (1) according to claim 15, comprising a drain nozzle unit (38) with a wastewater connection (33) for connecting to the wastewater system (102) and with a drain chamber (380) in which the drain opening (54) of the separating valve (14) is arranged and in which the drain section (18) opens.
20. Safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety device (8) comprises a drying device (9) for drying at least the container device (5) after residual emptying and / or the birthing tub (103).
21. Birthing tub device (100) with a safety system (1) according to one of the preceding claims.
Citation Information
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