Jet regulator with ceramic

Abstract

The invention proposes forming a sanitary insert part (1) which is suitable for inserting into an outlet structure of a sanitary fitting, wherein the sanitary insert part (1) forms at least two flow paths which can be operated individually and can additionally or alternatively be shut off, wherein a switching mechanism (2) has at least two ceramic discs (3) which interact with one another in order to select between the at least two flow paths.

Description

[0001] Beam control with ceramic

[0002] The invention relates to a sanitary insert, preferably an aerator, designed for insertion into the outlet structure of a sanitary fitting, wherein the sanitary insert forms at least two flow paths that can be operated individually and additionally or alternatively shut off. Such a sanitary insert is widely used in practice.

[0003] The invention further relates to a sanitary fitting with a sanitary insert. Such a sanitary fitting is known.

[0004] The invention further relates to the use of a sanitary insert part on a sanitary fitting. Such a use is known.

[0005] The invention is based on the objective of improving the operating characteristics of a sanitary fitting, in particular ensuring the adjustable flow rate and improving the ease of use. This objective is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0006] It should be noted that the features listed individually in the dependent claims can be combined with one another in any technologically meaningful way and define further embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the features specified in the claims are further specified and explained in the description, which presents further preferred embodiments of the invention. To solve this problem, the invention proposes the features of claim 1. In particular, according to the invention, for a sanitary insert of the type described above, it is proposed to solve the aforementioned problem by providing a switching mechanism for selecting between the at least two flow paths, comprising at least two interacting ceramic disks. Thus, the at least two flow paths can be switched efficiently and reliably.

[0007] Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described below, which can be combined alone or in combination with the features of other embodiments, optionally together with the features according to claim 1.

[0008] In an advantageous embodiment, the switching mechanism can include a rotatable actuating sleeve. This allows the user to operate the switching mechanism with ease using the actuating sleeve. Preferably, the actuating sleeve is circumferentially formed. This results in an attractive appearance.

[0009] In an advantageous design, it can be provided that the switching mechanism allows switching between a linear flow and a circular-linear flow.

[0010] The sanitary inlet can be configured such that the linear flow it generates is an internal flow and the circular-linear flow it generates is an external flow. Additionally, the sanitary inlet, in particular the at least two flow paths, can be configured such that the linear flow it generates is surrounded by the circular-linear flow it generates. The linear flow and the circular-linear flow can preferably be concentric and / or coaxial flows exiting the sanitary inlet.

[0011] To generate linear flow, the sanitary inlet device can have a first, in particular radially inner, outlet structure. Additionally or alternatively, to generate circular linear flow, the sanitary inlet device can have a second, in particular radially outer, outlet structure.

[0012] The first outlet structure can be an alignment outlet structure for aligning an incoming flow. For example, the first outlet structure can have a plurality of walls, such as partitions, aligned particularly in the flow direction. The walls can, for example, form a lattice structure. Additionally or alternatively, the walls can surround flow openings through which the incoming flow can pass, so that the outgoing flow can be separated into individual jets. If the linear flow consists of separate jets, the first outlet structure can be designed such that these multiple jets recombine into a common jet downstream of the first outlet structure, particularly immediately after exiting the first outlet structure.For this purpose in particular, the distance formed especially by the walls between adjacent flow openings of the first outlet structure can be smaller than a clear width, in particular a diameter or a diagonal, of the adjacent flow openings. In particular, this distance can be less than 1 / 3, preferably less than 1 / 4, of the diameter or length of the adjacent flow openings.

[0013] The second outlet structure can, in particular, also be an alignment outlet structure for aligning an incoming flow. For example, the second outlet structure can have an annular flow opening from which the circular-linear flow can exit. The circular-linear flow can then exit the second outlet structure as a substantially hollow cylindrical and / or sleeve-shaped jet. Alternatively, the second outlet structure can have two or more flow openings, which are, for example, designed in the form of preferably circularly arranged annular segments. In this case, the circular-linear flow can be discharged as a plurality of jets in the form of hollow cylindrical segments and / or sleeve segments.Alternatively, the second outlet structure can have two or more round or polygonal, in particular square, flow openings, which are, for example, arranged in a circle. In this case, the circular-linear flow can be discharged as a plurality of essentially cylindrical or polygonal jets.

[0014] If the second outlet structure has a plurality of flow openings, the circular-linear flow can be discharged in the form of separate jets. The distance between adjacent flow openings of the second outlet structure can be greater than the diameter or length of the adjacent flow openings. In particular, this distance can be more than twice, preferably more than three times, the diameter or length of the adjacent flow openings.

[0015] The first, in particular radially inner, outlet structure and the second, in particular radially outer, outlet structure can preferably be designed concentrically and / or coaxially to each other.

[0016] In the case of linear flow, it can additionally or alternatively be a flow that consists, for example, of several jets, which leaves an outlet structure, in particular the first outlet structure, of the sanitary insert in a, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped middle section or an, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped outlet structure.

[0017] In circular-linear flow, the flow can consist, for example, of several jets forming a circle and exiting it linearly. In particular, the circle can surround the first outlet structure of the sanitary fitting, which may be honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like. The exit angle of the jets can be constant. The jets essentially run along the flow direction. This can improve user-friendliness.

[0018] The actuating sleeve and switching mechanism allow switching between three flow stages: two of the three stages can, for example, flow at different rates through the honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like first outlet structure, while one of the three stages can flow through the circular second outlet structure. This switching process differs significantly from simply activating the flow.

[0019] The flow direction runs along a longitudinal axis of the sanitary fitting. The longitudinal axis is defined as the axis that marks the greatest extent of the sanitary fitting.

[0020] In an advantageous design, the two interacting ceramic discs can be positioned on top of each other and additionally or alternatively make contact. This allows for reliable switching between at least two flow paths. The ceramic discs are processed using special grinding processes and are characterized by excellent flatness, eliminating the need for a sealing ring between them.

[0021] In an advantageous embodiment, a ceramic disk positioned upstream in the flow direction can be provided that is immobile. Preferably, this ceramic disk is non-rotatable. In the following description, the ceramic disk positioned upstream in the flow direction will be referred to as the "upper ceramic disk." Thus, the flow rate or throughput rate can be influenced or adjusted by means of the upper ceramic disk. This has a beneficial effect on the ease of use.

[0022] In an advantageous embodiment, a ceramic disk positioned downstream in the flow direction can be movable. Preferably, this ceramic disk is rotatable. In the following description, the ceramic disk positioned downstream in the flow direction is referred to as the "lower ceramic disk." The lower ceramic disk has holes corresponding to those of the upper ceramic disk; in particular, the lower ceramic disk has two sector-shaped holes and a trapezoidal recess. The shapes of the holes in the lower ceramic disk are aligned with the shapes of the holes in the upper ceramic disk, such that a specific rotation of the lower ceramic disk results in a precisely defined flow rate through both ceramic disks. This improves the functionality of the sanitary fitting. Three flow stages can be achieved using the two ceramic disks.Two stages of the flow pass through the first outlet structure, which is, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped, and one stage passes through the circle defined above and the second outlet structure, which is, for example, circular.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment, a ceramic disk, such as the one already mentioned, located downstream in the flow direction (e.g., the lower one), can be coupled to the actuating sleeve. Preferably, a rotational movement of the actuating sleeve can be transmitted to the lower, rotatable ceramic disk. This ensures that the flow rate can be adjusted by rotating the actuating sleeve. The coupling between the actuating sleeve and the lower ceramic disk is achieved by a main housing, which is designed to rotate.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment, a ceramic disk, such as the one already mentioned, is positioned upstream (e.g., the upper one) in an intermediate housing. Preferably, the ceramic disk is fixed in place within the intermediate housing, and additionally or alternatively, the intermediate housing is arranged in a screw sleeve and additionally or alternatively incorporates a reducing stage. This ensures the functionality of the intermediate housing. The intermediate housing is non-rotatable, in particular, fixed in place.

[0025] A flow control stage, also known as a flow regulator, is either a perforated disc or a flow control device that reduces the flow rate, particularly when its function is determined by the flow rate and operating pressure. In an advantageous design, a pre-filter screen can be positioned upstream of the two upper and lower ceramic discs in the direction of flow. This allows dirt and limescale particles to be filtered from the flow, preventing them from entering the sanitary fitting and causing damage or blockages.

[0026] In an advantageous embodiment, the actuating sleeve can be coupled to a main housing, such as the one already mentioned. Preferably, the coupling is ensured by tongue-and-groove arrangements. This allows rotation of the actuating sleeve to be transferred to the main housing. From the main housing, the rotation is transferred to the lower ceramic disk.

[0027] The intermediate housing is permanently connected to the upper ceramic disc.

[0028] In an advantageous design, a rotary guide in the form of a cam can be provided between the main housing and the intermediate housing. This allows the main housing and the intermediate housing to be rotated relative to each other.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment, the main housing may have openings into which the intermediate housing engages with projections. Preferably, these projections are teeth. This allows for relative rotation between the intermediate housing and the main housing. A rotational guide thus exists between the intermediate housing and the main housing.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment, the sanitary insert can be provided with a screw sleeve, for example, the one already mentioned, which has a thread for screwing into a sanitary fitting. This allows the sanitary insert to be fastened in or to the sanitary fitting. Preferably, the thread is an external thread. The screw sleeve is fixed in place.

[0031] In an advantageous design, the screw sleeve may have two opposing tool gripping surfaces into which open-end pliers can be inserted. This allows the screw sleeve to be gripped with the pliers and screwed into the sanitary fitting.

[0032] In an advantageous embodiment, the actuating sleeve may be provided with grooves parallel to the flow direction. These grooves are formed circumferentially around the actuating sleeve. This allows the user to grip the actuating sleeve while preventing a hand or finger from slipping.

[0033] In an advantageous embodiment, a first outlet structure, such as the one already mentioned, which may be honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like, can be arranged downstream of the two cooperating upper and lower ceramic discs in the flow direction, at least in one flow path. This allows for the generation of a substantial jet with an attractive jet pattern. A honeycomb-shaped outlet structure, as used here, refers to an outlet structure with a plurality of hexagonal holes. Hexagonal holes are defined as holes that have the shape of an equilateral hexagon. In an alternative embodiment, the first outlet structure can additionally or alternatively have holes with other geometries, such as round holes, square holes, and / or octagonal holes. Any desired grid shape can be formed by the holes.In an advantageous embodiment, the lower ceramic disc may have a base (e.g., cylindrical) to which a sealing ring is attached. The lower ceramic disc is rotatable. The sealing ring seals the at least two flow paths from each other. This ensures functionality, in particular the switching between the at least two flow paths.

[0034] In an advantageous design, a reduction stage, such as the one already mentioned, can be arranged downstream of a pre-filter (e.g., the aforementioned pre-filter) and upstream of the two ceramic discs, either additionally or alternatively. This allows for precise regulation of the flow rate. The functions of the reduction stage are to maintain a constant flow rate, ensure uniform water distribution, and control the water jet. The reduction stage can be designed as a flow regulator or a simple perforated disc.

[0035] In an advantageous design, the reduction stage can include two concentric rubber rings. This allows the flow rate to be precisely adjusted to the operating pressure.

[0036] In an advantageous embodiment, the upper ceramic disc may include a (for example, elongated) groove for anti-rotation and additionally or alternatively a round hole and additionally or alternatively two sector-shaped holes. This allows for particularly simple functionality of the device, especially switching between the at least two flow paths and achieving an attractive spray pattern. The round hole directs the flow to the aforementioned circle or, for example, to the second circular outlet structure, while the sector-shaped holes direct the flow to the first outlet structure, which may be, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped. The holes of the second circular outlet structure, for example, can have the same exit angle.One exit direction of the rays from the, for example, circular second outlet structure is essentially directed along the flow direction.

[0037] In an advantageous design, the intermediate housing can be provided with a spring that engages in the (e.g., elongated) groove. This prevents rotation between the intermediate housing and the upper ceramic disc.

[0038] In an advantageous embodiment, the actuating sleeve may be provided with tongue-and-groove joints on its inner surface, which interact with the main housing. This allows for a coupling between the actuating sleeve and the main housing. A rotational movement of the actuating sleeve is thus converted into a rotational movement of the main housing. The rotation of the main housing is then transferred to the lower, rotatable ceramic disc.

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment, the intermediate housing can be provided with an annular sealing ring that rests against the upper ceramic disc. This prevents water from escaping and guides the water flow. Furthermore, the annular sealing ring counteracts movement of the upper ceramic disc. In another advantageous embodiment, a flow structure can be arranged downstream of the lower ceramic disc in the direction of flow. This flow structure comprises a separation stage and a mixing stage. This allows the flow to be advantageously manipulated. The separation stage can be designed as a diffuser or a perforated plate. The function of the mixing stage is to blend the water jet with air.

[0040] The main housing features ventilation channels that allow air to flow into the sanitary fitting. These ventilation channels are located between the openings of, for example, the circular secondary outlet structure. It should be noted that the linear flow is ventilated, while the circular-linear flow is unventilated. The ventilation results in a visually appealing spray pattern.

[0041] In an advantageous design, the mixing stage can consist of multi-row cylindrical units that are offset from each other in the direction of flow and additionally or alternatively form a flow path between them. This allows for the generation of uniform streamlines and ensures good mixing with air.

[0042] In an advantageous embodiment, a snap-fit ​​connection can be provided between the main housing and the intermediate housing. Preferably, the main housing has a snap-fit ​​lug that rests resiliently on a snap-fit ​​profile of the intermediate housing and is slidably arranged. The snap-fit ​​profile has three snap positions, which can represent the three stages of the flow. Two of the three stages realize the flow through the, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like first outlet structure, and one stage realizes the flow through the circle and the, for example, circular second outlet structure, which can surround the, for example, honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like first outlet structure.

[0043] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two ceramic disks may have a greater number of switching holes than there are switchable flow paths. Thus, one hole can be used to switch multiple flow paths on and / or off.

[0044] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two ceramic disks may have a smaller number of switching holes than there are switchable flow paths. This allows for the stepwise activation and / or deactivation of a flow path.

[0045] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two ceramic disks may have the same number of switching holes as there are switchable flow paths. This allows for a simple and complete separation of the flow paths.

[0046] These variants can be combined in pairs for the two ceramic discs in all combinations.

[0047] To solve the aforementioned problem, the invention provides the features of dependent claim 28, which relates to a sanitary fitting. In particular, to solve the aforementioned problem, it is proposed according to the invention that a sanitary fitting of the type described above has a sanitary insert with the features defined above. This ensures the full functionality of the sanitary insert. To solve the aforementioned problem, the invention provides the features of dependent claim 29, which relates to a use. In particular, to solve the aforementioned problem, it is proposed according to the invention that the use of a sanitary insert with the features defined above is implemented on a sanitary fitting. This ensures the full functionality of the sanitary insert during use.

[0048] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to a few exemplary embodiments, but is not limited to these few exemplary embodiments. Further variants and exemplary embodiments of the invention result from combining the features of one or more claims with each other and / or with one or more features of the exemplary embodiments and / or the previously described variants of devices according to the invention.

[0049] It shows:

[0050] Fig. 1 shows a sanitary insert according to this invention in a perspective view and

[0051] Fig. 2 shows the sanitary insert from Fig. 1 in a top view and

[0052] Fig. 3 shows the sanitary insert from Fig. 1 in a view from below and

[0053] Fig. 4 shows the sanitary insert from Fig. 1 in a side view and

[0054] Fig. 5 shows the sanitary insert from Fig. 1 without screw sleeve and without actuating sleeve and

[0055] Fig. 6 shows a vertical section through the sanitary insert and

[0056] Fig. 7 shows the upper ceramic disc in a top view and

[0057] Fig. 8 shows the lower ceramic disc in a top view and

[0058] Fig. 8a the lower ceramic disc in a perspective view

[0059] Fig. 9 shows the reduction stage in a perspective view and

[0060] Fig. 10 shows the flow structure in a perspective view and

[0061] Fig. 11 shows the main housing in a perspective view and

[0062] Fig. 12 shows the intermediate housing in a perspective view and

[0063] Fig. 13a shows an alternative upper ceramic disc in a top view and

[0064] Fig. 13b shows the alternative upper ceramic disc in a view from below and

[0065] Fig. 14 shows an alternative lower ceramic disc in a top view, and Fig. 15 shows the alternative lower ceramic disc from Fig. 14 in a perspective view.

[0066] Fig. 16 shows an alternative embodiment of the sanitary insert without the actuating sleeve and the screw sleeve, in a view from below, and

[0067] Fig. 17 shows the embodiment shown in Fig. 16 in a perspective view from a low angle.

[0068] In the following description of various embodiments of the invention, elements that are identical in function, even if they differ in design or shape, are given identical reference numbers.

[0069] For clarity, not all reference symbols are shown in the figures, even though the elements may well be present in the figures. However, identical reference symbols denote functionally and / or structurally identical components and functional units.

[0070] Fig. 1 shows a sanitary insert 1 according to this invention in a perspective view. The (main) flow direction is indicated by the arrow Pf l. The sanitary insert 1 has a pre-filter screen 8, which can filter dirt particles, for example limescale particles, out of the flow. An actuating sleeve 4 is visible, which has grooves 16 that are parallel to the flow direction Pf l. The grooves 16 help a user to grip the actuating sleeve 4 and actuate it without slipping. The actuating sleeve 4 belongs to a switching mechanism 2, which can switch between at least two flow paths. The actuating sleeve 4 is rotatable and circumferentially formed. Additionally, a screw sleeve 6 is visible, which has a thread 14 with which it can be screwed into a sanitary fitting (not shown here).The screw sleeve 6 has two opposing tool gripping surfaces 15, on which a pair of open-end pliers can be gripped, with which it is possible to screw the sanitary insert 1 into the sanitary fitting.

[0071] Fig. 2 shows the sanitary insert 1 from Fig. 1 in a top view. The pre-filter screen 8 is visible here, which serves to filter out dirt particles, for example, limescale particles. Unfiltered dirt particles can enter the interior of the sanitary insert 1 and block the switching mechanism 2 or cause blockages.

[0072] Fig. 3 shows the sanitary insert 1 from Fig. 1 in a bottom view. A first outlet structure 17a in the form of a honeycomb-shaped outlet structure 17a is visible. In addition, a second outlet structure 17b surrounding the honeycomb-shaped outlet structure 17a is visible, which is designed as a circular outlet structure 17b coaxially around the first outlet structure 17a.

[0073] The honeycomb-shaped first outlet structure 17a has a plurality of walls, in particular partition walls, which are aligned in the direction of flow and surround flow openings. The walls allow a water jet flowing into this outlet structure 17a to be separated into a plurality of individual jets. The wall thickness of the walls and the distance between adjacent flow openings is less than 1 / 4 of the diameter of the flow openings, so that separate water jets exiting the first outlet structure 17a can recombine immediately after exiting and together form a linear flow. The linear flow exiting the first outlet structure can be discharged as a solid jet, particularly when... The second outlet structure 17b also has a plurality of flow openings.These flow openings are circular and arranged together in a circle, with the distance between adjacent flow openings being more than twice the diameter of the flow openings. The jets exiting from them do not recombine after exiting, but continue to flow as individual jets. This forms a kind of hollow cylindrical or sleeve-shaped water curtain, which represents a circular-linear flow. Alternatively, the jets exiting the second outlet structure 17b can exit as a closed hollow cylindrical or sleeve-shaped flow, particularly if they recombine after exiting and / or particularly if the second outlet structure 17b has annular or annular-segment-shaped flow openings.

[0074] Additionally, the actuating sleeve 4 is shown, which has grooves 16. The circular second outlet structure 17b belongs to a main housing 9. The main housing 9 has ventilation channels 17c, which draw in ambient air, where the water jet mixes with the ambient air. The flow through the honeycomb-shaped first outlet structure 17a is aerated, while the flow through the circular second outlet structure 17b is unaerated. Aeration can result in a visually appealing jet pattern or a soft jet.

[0075] The actuating sleeve 4 allows the switching mechanism 2 to be actuated, enabling switching between a linear flow and a circular-linear flow. The linear flow exits the sanitary inlet 1 through the honeycomb and / or grid-like first outlet structure 17a. The circular-linear flow exits the sanitary inlet 1 through the circular second outlet structure 17b. It is evident that a jet pattern is created, formed from a multitude of individual jets arranged along a circle.

[0076] The switching mechanism 2 thus allows switching between at least two flow paths and no addition of flow paths.

[0077] Fig. 4 shows the sanitary insert 1 from Fig. 1 in a side view. The parts have already been described above, so a duplication of the description is omitted here.

[0078] Fig. 5 shows the sanitary insert 1 from Fig. 1 without screw sleeve 6 and without actuating sleeve 4. The flow direction is indicated by the arrow Pf l. The main housing 9 is visible in Fig. 5. The intermediate housing 5 is visible above it, i.e., upstream in the flow direction. The main housing 9 is rotatable and has tongue-and-groove assemblies 10, which couple the main housing 9 to the actuating sleeve 4 (not shown here). Thus, a rotational movement of the actuating sleeve 4 can be transmitted to the main housing 9. The intermediate housing 5 is stationary, i.e., immovable. The main housing 9 and the intermediate housing 5 have a rotary guide 11, which includes openings 12 on the main housing 9 and projections 13 on the intermediate housing 5. Preferably, the projections 13 on the intermediate housing 5 are designed as teeth. The rotary guide 11 is designed in the form of a cam between the main housing 9 and the intermediate housing 5.The intermediate housing 5 is arranged in the screw sleeve 6. The intermediate housing 5 carries a reducing stage 7. The reducing stage can include a flow regulator, which implements a precisely defined function between flow rate and operating pressure. The reducing stage 7 is arranged downstream of the pre-filter 8 in the flow direction Pf l.

[0079] A snap-fit ​​connection 28 is formed between the main housing 9 and the intermediate housing 5.

[0080] The intermediate housing 5 has a detent profile 30, which is corrugated. The main housing 9 has a detent lug 29, which rests resiliently on the detent profile 30 of the intermediate housing 5 and is slidably arranged. The corrugated detent profile 30 forms three detent positions, which represent the three stages of the flow: two of the three stages lead to a flow (with different flow rates) through the honeycomb and / or grid-shaped first outlet structure 17a, while one stage leads to a flow through the circular second outlet structure 17b.

[0081] Fig. 6 shows a vertical section through the sanitary insert 1.

[0082] The sanitary insert 1 has two interacting ceramic discs 3. The sanitary insert 1 forms at least two flow paths, which can be operated individually and additionally or alternatively shut off, wherein the aforementioned switching mechanism 2 has at least two interacting ceramic discs 3 for selecting between the at least two flow paths. As already mentioned, the switching mechanism 2 allows switching between a linear flow, which exits the sanitary insert 1 at the honeycomb and / or grid-shaped first outlet structure 17a, and a circular-linear flow, which exits the sanitary insert 1 at the circular second outlet structure 17b. The two interacting ceramic discs 3 are in contact with each other. The (upper) ceramic disc 3a, which is positioned upstream in the flow direction Pf l, is immobile, in particular non-rotatable.The upper ceramic disk 3a is therefore static. The (lower) ceramic disk 3b, which is downstream in the flow direction Pf l, is movable, in particular rotatable. The lower ceramic disk 3b is therefore dynamic. Here, the lower ceramic disk 3b is coupled to the actuating sleeve 4, whereby a rotational movement of the actuating sleeve 4 can be transmitted to the lower ceramic disk 3b. The transmission of the movement takes place via the rotatable main housing 9.

[0083] The upper ceramic disc 3a is formed in the intermediate housing 5, wherein the ceramic disc 3a is fixed in position within the intermediate housing 5. The intermediate housing 5 is arranged in the screw sleeve 6. The intermediate housing 5 carries the reducing stage 7.

[0084] The pre-filter 8 is positioned upstream of the two upper and lower ceramic discs 3a, 3b in the direction of flow Pf l .

[0085] The main housing 9 is coupled to the actuating sleeve 4, the coupling being ensured by tongue and groove arrangements 10 (not shown here).

[0086] The screw sleeve 6 has a thread 14 which is suitable for screwing onto a sanitary fitting (not shown here).

[0087] Downstream of the two interacting ceramic disks 3, Pf l, a honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-like first outlet structure 17a is arranged, in particular in a flow path. A honeycomb-shaped structure is defined here as one consisting of hexagonal holes.

[0088] The lower ceramic disc 3b has a cylindrical base 18 (Fig. 8a) to which a sealing ring 19 is attached. The sealing ring 19 seals between the linear flow and the circular-linear flow.

[0089] The reducing stage 7 comprises two concentric rubber rings 20. In this specific example, the reducing stage 7 is designed as a flow regulator. A flow regulator can implement a precisely defined function of flow rate versus operating pressure. It is also conceivable that the reducing stage 7 comprises a simple perforated disc.

[0090] The intermediate housing 5 has an annular sealing ring 23 which rests against the upper ceramic disc 3a. The function of the annular sealing ring 23 is to seal the flow and, since it is in contact with the upper ceramic disc 3a, to prevent movement of the upper ceramic disc 3a.

[0091] Downstream of the lower, dynamic ceramic disk 3b, a flow structure 24 is arranged in the flow direction Pf l, wherein the flow structure 24 comprises a separation stage 25 and a mixing stage 26. The mixing stage 26 consists of multi-row cylindrical indicative units 27, which are offset from each other in the flow direction Pf l and additionally or alternatively form a flow path between them.

[0092] Fig. 7 shows the upper ceramic disc 3a in a top view. The upper ceramic disc 3a has two sector-shaped holes 31 with identical geometry. The upper ceramic disc 3a also has a hole 22 and an elongated groove 21. The elongated groove 21 is designed to prevent rotation, as the intermediate housing 5 engages in the elongated groove 21 with a spring. The hole 22 leads to the circular-linear flow, while the two sector-shaped holes 31 lead to the linear flow. The linear flow exits the sanitary insert 1 at the honeycomb and / or grid-shaped first outlet structure 17a (Fig. 6). The circular-linear flow exits the sanitary insert 1 at the circular second outlet structure 17b (Fig. 6). The upper ceramic disc 3a is static, whereby a rotation of the upper ceramic disc 3a is prevented by the annular sealing ring 23 (Fig.6) and the spring of the intermediate housing 5, which engages in the elongated groove 21, is prevented.

[0093] Fig. 8 shows the lower ceramic disc 3b in a top view. The lower ceramic disc 3b has two circular sector-shaped flow openings 32 (one larger and one smaller) and a recess 33. The larger circular sector-shaped flow opening 32 is more than twice the size of the smaller circular sector-shaped flow opening 32. The recess 33 of the lower ceramic disc 3b interacts with the hole 22 (Fig. 7) of the upper ceramic disc 3a in one switching position and results in circular-linear flow. The circular sector-shaped flow openings 32 provide two further switching positions and each results in linear flow. A total of three flow stages are thus possible. The lower ceramic disc 3b is dynamic and rotatable, as it is coupled to the rotatable actuating sleeve 4 (Fig. 6) and the rotatable main housing 9 (Fig. 6).

[0094] Fig. 8a shows the lower ceramic disc 3b in a perspective view. The lower ceramic disc 3b has the two previously mentioned circular sector-shaped flow openings 32 and the recess 33. The lower ceramic disc 3b has a cylindrical base 18 to which a sealing ring 19 is attached. The sealing ring 19 provides a seal between the linear flow and the circular-linear flow. The recess 33 interacts with the hole 22 of the upper ceramic disc 3a (Fig. 7) and leads to the circular-linear flow. The circular sector-shaped flow openings 32 are associated with the linear flow.

[0095] Fig. 9 shows the reduction stage 7 in a perspective view. In this specific embodiment, the reduction stage 7 is designed as a flow regulator. Alternatively, the reduction stage 7 can be designed as a simple perforated disc. The flow regulator shown in this embodiment has a plastic housing and two concentric rubber rings 20. The reduction stage 7 performs a function between the flow rate and the operating pressure. The operation of a flow regulator is described, for example, at https: / / www.neoperl.com / global / de / home / produkte / mengenregier. The reduction stage 7 is supported by the intermediate housing 5. A pre-filter screen 8 (Fig. 6) is positioned upstream of the reduction stage 7 in the flow direction Pfl, which filters dirt particles or limescale particles from the flow.

[0096] Fig. 10 shows the flow structure 24 in a perspective view. The flow structure 24 is located downstream of the lower ceramic disk 3b in the flow direction Pfl (Fig. 6), and the flow structure 24 comprises a separator stage 25 and a mixing stage 26. The separator stage 25 is designed as a perforated disk that splits a water jet into several individual jets. The mixing stage 26 follows the separator stage 25 downstream in the flow direction Pfl and ensures that the individual jets are mixed with air. Mixing with air results in an attractive jet pattern and improved water consumption efficiency. The mixing stage 26 consists of multi-row cylindrical units 27, which are offset from one another in the flow direction Pfl and additionally or alternatively form a flow path between them.

[0097] Fig. 11 shows the main housing 9 in a perspective view. The main housing 9 has a tongue-and-groove arrangement 10, which connects to the actuating sleeve 4 (Fig. 6). Rotation of the actuating sleeve 4 thus causes rotation of the main housing 9. The main housing 9 also has openings 12 into which a projection 13 (Fig. 5) engages. A rotary guide 11 (Fig. 5) is thus formed. The main housing 9 further has a locking lug 29, which rests resiliently on a locking profile 30 of the intermediate housing 5 (Fig. 12) and is slidably arranged. The main housing 9 also has the circular second outlet structure 17b and ventilation channels 17c. The linear flow is ventilated, while the circular-linear flow is unventilated. The linear flow leaves the sanitary inlet part 1 at the honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped first outlet structure 17a (Fig.6) , while the circular-linear flow leaves the sanitary inlet part 1 at the circular second outlet structure 17b (Fig. 6).

[0098] Fig. 12 shows the intermediate housing 5 in a perspective view. The intermediate housing 5 is statically designed and cannot be rotated. The intermediate housing 5 is arranged inside the screw sleeve 6 (Fig. 6). The intermediate housing 5 has projections 13 which extend into openings 12 of the main housing 9 (Fig. 11). The intermediate housing 5 has a detent profile 30 on which a detent lug 29 (Fig. 11) rests, which is part of the main housing 9 and is slidably arranged. The detent profile 30 is corrugated and has three detent positions, which represent the three stages of the flow. Inside the intermediate housing 5, a spring is formed which extends into the elongated groove 21 of the upper ceramic disc 3a (Fig. 7) and provides an anti-rotation feature.

[0099] Fig. 13a shows an alternative upper ceramic disk 3a in a top view. The alternative upper ceramic disk 3a has several holes. In a central part of the upper ceramic disk 3a, two sector-shaped holes 31 are formed, which are mirror-symmetrical to each other and connected to form a large hole consisting of the two sector-shaped holes 31. In an outer region of the upper ceramic disk 3a, two partially annular rotary fixings 34 are formed, which are mirror-symmetrical about a center point of the upper ceramic disk 3a. The large hole consisting of the two sector-shaped holes 31 is located between the two partially annular rotary fixings 34. The two annular rotary fixings 34 function like typical tongue-and-groove arrangements and are intended to prevent rotation or twisting of the upper ceramic disk 3a.Springs project into the rotary fixings 34, preventing the upper ceramic disk 3a from rotating. The rotary fixings 34 are designed as recesses or grooves with an annular shape.

[0100] Fig. 13b shows the upper ceramic disk 3a in a view from below. The large hole, which consists of the two sector-shaped holes 31, is visible here.

[0101] Fig. 14 shows an alternative lower ceramic disc 3b in a top view. The lower ceramic disc 3b has a circular sector-shaped flow opening 32 and a recess 33. Fig. 15 shows the alternative lower ceramic disc 3b from Fig. 14 in a perspective view. A flow through the circular sector-shaped flow opening 32 exits the sanitary insert 1 (not shown here) through the honeycomb and / or grid-shaped first outlet structure 17a (not shown here; see Fig. 3). A flow through the recess 33 exits the sanitary insert 1 (not shown here) through the circular second outlet structure 17b (not shown here; see Fig. 3).

[0102] The special feature of the upper ceramic disk 3a from Fig. 13 and the lower ceramic disk 3b from Fig. 14 is that both ceramic disks 3a, 3b have through-holes when overlapping. The upper ceramic disk 3a is static and fixed in its position, while the lower ceramic disk 3b is dynamic and rotatable.

[0103] Fig. 7 shows ceramic disks 3a, 3b in which the number of switching holes 22, 31 (here three) is greater than the number of switchable flow paths (here two).

[0104] Figures 14 and 15 show a ceramic disk 3b in which the number of switching holes 22, 31 (here two) is equal to the number of switchable flow paths (here two).

[0105] In another embodiment, at least one ceramic disk 3a, 3b has a single hole formed by the central connection of all holes 22, 31. In this case, the number of switching holes is less than the number of flow paths.

[0106] With regard to the first outlet structure 17a already described, reference is also made to Figures 16 and 17, which show a further embodiment of the sanitary insert 1 with an alternatively designed first outlet structure 17a. For the sake of clarity, the actuating sleeve 4 and the screw sleeve 6 are not shown in Figures 16 and 17, even though they are present in this embodiment. In principle, the embodiment shown in Figures 16 and 17, with the exception of the design of the first outlet structure 17a, is designed according to the description above and below. Therefore, only the differences with regard to the first outlet structure 17a are described. The first outlet structure 17a shown in Figures 16 and 17 is not honeycomb-shaped, but rather has a plurality of rectangular holes, which can be arranged and / or aligned around a central point.The square holes fulfill the function of the described honeycomb-shaped holes and, with the exception of the basic shape, can have the features and advantages described in connection with the honeycomb-shaped holes.

[0107] It is proposed to design a sanitary insert 1 which is suitable for insertion into a spout structure of a sanitary fitting, wherein the sanitary insert 1 forms at least two flow paths which can be operated individually and additionally or alternatively shut off, wherein a switching mechanism 2 has at least two interacting ceramic discs 3 for a selection between the at least two flow paths.

[0108] Reference list sanitary insert switching mechanism two cooperating ceramic discs a (upper) ceramic disc b (lower) ceramic disc actuating sleeve intermediate housing screw sleeve reducing stage pre-filter main housing 0 tongue and groove arrangement 1 rotary guide 2 opening 3 projection 4 thread 5 tool grip surface 6 groove, grooves 7a first outlet structure, honeycomb and / or grid-shaped

[0109] Outlet structure 7b second outlet structure, circular outlet structure 7c ventilation channels 8 (cylindrical) base 9 sealing ring 0 rubber ring, rubber rings 1 (elongated) groove 2 (round) hole 3 annular sealing ring 4 flow structure 5 separating stage 6 mixing stage 7 cylindrical unit 8 locking connection 29 locking lug

[0110] 30 Rast profile

[0111] 31 (circular sector-shaped) hole

[0112] 32 (circular sector-shaped) flow opening 33 recess

[0113] 34 (annular) rotation fixation

[0114] Plant flow direction

Claims

Claims 1. Sanitary insert (1), in particular aerator, designed for insertion into a spout structure of a sanitary fitting, wherein the sanitary insert (1) forms at least two flow paths which can be operated and / or shut off individually, characterized in that a switching mechanism (2) for selecting between the at least two flow paths has at least two interacting ceramic discs (3).

2. Sanitary insert (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching mechanism (2) comprises a rotatable actuating sleeve (4), which is preferably designed circumferentially.

3. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching mechanism (2) allows switching between a linear flow and a circular-linear flow.

4. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the switching mechanism comprises a first, in particular radially inner, outlet structure (17a) and / or a second, in particular radially outer, exhibits a discharge structure (17b).

5. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the two cooperating ceramic discs (3) lie on top of each other and / or contact each other.

6. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a The ceramic disk (3a) upstream of the flow direction (Pfl) is immobile, in particular non-rotatable.

7. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a ceramic disc (3b) downstream in the direction of flow (Pfl) is movable, in particular rotatable.

8. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ceramic disc (3b) or a ceramic disc downstream in the direction of flow (Pfl) is coupled to the actuating sleeve (4), in particular wherein a rotational movement of the actuating sleeve (4) can be transferred to the lower ceramic disc (3b).

9. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ceramic disc (3a) or a ceramic disc positioned upstream in the flow direction (Pfl) is formed in an intermediate housing (5), in particular wherein the ceramic disc (3a) is fixed in position in the intermediate housing (5) and / or wherein the intermediate housing (5) is arranged in a screw sleeve (6) and / or the intermediate housing (5) carries a reducing stage (7).

10. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a pre-filter (8) is positioned upstream of the two (upper and lower) ceramic discs (3a, 3b) in the direction of flow (Pfl).

11. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating sleeve (4) is coupled to a main housing (9), in particular wherein the coupling is ensured by tongue and groove arrangements (10).

12. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that a rotary guide (11) is formed in the form of a backdrop between the main housing (9) and the intermediate housing (5).

13. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the main housing (9) has openings (12) into which the intermediate housing (5) engages with projections (13), in particular teeth.

14. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sanitary insert (1) has a screw sleeve (6) which has a thread (14) for screwing onto a sanitary fitting.

15. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the screw sleeve (6) has two opposing tool engagement surfaces (15) into which a jaw pliers can be engaged.

16. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating sleeve (4) has grooves (16) parallel in the direction of flow (Pfl).

17. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a honeycomb-shaped and / or grid-shaped outlet structure, in particular as the first outlet structure (17a), is arranged downstream of the two cooperating ceramic discs (3) in the flow direction (Pfl), at least in one flow path.

18. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the lower ceramic disc (3b) has a preferably cylindrical base (18) to which a sealing ring (19) is attached.

19. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a reduction stage (7) is arranged downstream of the pre-filter (8) and / or upstream of the two ceramic discs (3).

20. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reduction stage (7) comprises two concentric rubber rings (20).

21. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper ceramic disc (3a) comprises a groove (21) for anti-rotation protection and / or a hole (22).

22. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the intermediate housing (5) engages with a spring in the groove (21).

23. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuating sleeve (4) has tongue and groove arrangements (10) on its inside which interact with the main housing (9).

24. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding Claims, characterized in that the intermediate housing (5) has an annular sealing ring (23) which rests on the upper ceramic disc (3a).

25. Sanitary insert (1) after one of the passing Claims, characterized in that a flow structure (24) is connected downstream of the lower ceramic disk (3b) in the direction of flow (Pfl), wherein the flow structure (24) has a separation stage (25) and a mixing stage (26).

26. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mixing stage (26) consists of multi-row cylindrical units (27) which are offset from each other in the direction of flow (Pfl) and / or form a flow path between them.

27. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a snap connection (28) is formed between the main housing (9) and the intermediate housing (5), in particular wherein the main housing (9) has a locking lug (29) which rests resiliently on a locking profile (30) of the intermediate housing (5) and is slidably arranged.

28. Sanitary insert (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one of the two ceramic discs (3a, 3b) has a larger number of switching holes (22, 31) than there are switchable flow paths and / or that at least one of the two ceramic discs (3a, 3b) has a smaller number of switching holes (22, 31) than there are switchable flow paths and / or that at least one of the two ceramic discs (3a, 3b) has the same number of switching holes (22, 31) as there are switchable flow paths.

29. Sanitary fitting with a sanitary insert (1) according to claims 1 to 28.

30. Use of a sanitary insert (1) according to claims 1 to 28 on a sanitary fitting.

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