Sanitary device comprising a buffer tank for recovering cold water
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure EP2026053143_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] Description
[0002] Title: Sanitary device including a cold water recovery buffer tank.
[0003] technical
[0004]
[0005] [1] The invention relates to a sanitary device comprising a cold water recovery buffer tank.
[0006] [2] It relates to the technical field of devices used for water management in homes or buildings, for hygiene, cleaning or comfort purposes and including shower columns, taps, bathtubs, washbasins, sinks, etc. It relates more particularly to sanitary devices capable of recycling cold water from a domestic hot water pipe before it reaches a desired temperature.
[0007] State of the art
[0008] [3] When a tap or shower is turned on, the water initially in the hot water pipe of the domestic hot water system is often cooled down. This is because the water has remained still in the pipe and has lost heat through contact with the pipe walls. It is therefore necessary to wait a few seconds before the water circulating in this hot water pipe reaches the desired temperature. This temperature corresponds to the reference temperature set by the domestic hot water production system, such as a water heater or boiler.
[0009] [4] The waiting time generally depends on the length of the domestic hot water pipe and the pressure set in the network. This delay can be increased in installations where the domestic hot water production system is far from the tap or shower. During this waiting period, water is generally wasted. The amount of water wasted can reach 3 to 4 liters for a shower, or approximately 1 m³ 3 of water per year per person.
[0010] [5] Patent document W02016058069A1 describes a shower column connected to a cold water inlet and a hot water inlet. A mixer tap mixes the cold and hot water to supply a shower head with water at the user's desired temperature. Solenoid valves installed upstream of the mixer tap and connected respectively to the cold and hot water inlets direct the water from the hot water supply line to a buffer tank. More specifically, a solenoid valve incorporating a temperature sensor is placed in the hot water supply line. This solenoid valve diverts the still-cold water in the hot water supply line to the buffer tank. When the desired temperature is reached in the hot water supply line, another solenoid valve located in the cold water supply line opens.Due to the effect of gravity, the water contained in the buffer tank then supplements the cold water supply to the mixer tap.
[0011] [6] This prior art device prevents the cold water initially circulating in the hot water pipe from being unnecessarily discharged before the water reaches the desired temperature. By redirecting this water to the buffer tank, this device reduces water waste. It also provides a degree of comfort to the user by ensuring that the water coming out of the shower head is immediately at the desired temperature.
[0012] [7] However, in practice, emptying the buffer tank can be difficult, as it refills unexpectedly with pressurized water circulating in the water pipes. The tank then becomes less efficient because its emptying is compromised and its available volume for collecting water during subsequent cycles is reduced. Furthermore, the buffer tank may be over-pressurized during subsequent cycles and / or the management of water flow within the recovery system may be less precise, negatively impacting the operation and performance of said system.
[0013] [8] We also know from patent documents US2020 / 080289,
[0014] US2015 / 316287, US11661730 and AU2010203312 are other sanitary devices that manage cold water initially circulating in the hot water pipe. However, these devices are complex and expensive.
[0015] [9] One objective of the invention is to remedy all or part of the aforementioned drawbacks. In particular, the invention aims to achieve one or more of the following objectives: ensure complete emptying of the buffer tank; prevent any untimely refilling of the buffer tank; ensure optimal operation of the water recovery device; avoid any risk of damage to the buffer tank; ensure precise and reliable management of water flows; ensure stable water temperature throughout the entire duration of shower use (buffer tank emptying cycle followed by normal operation); provide a water recovery device that is simple in design, easy to install and use, and inexpensive.
[0016] Presentation of the invention
[0017]
[0010] The solution proposed by the invention is a sanitary device according to claim 1.
[0018]
[0011] During draining, the control devices isolate the buffer tank from the cold and hot water inlets. Therefore, there is no longer any risk of the tank being unexpectedly filled by pressurized water circulating in these pipes. The tank can thus be completely emptied, so that after draining, it has an optimal available volume to collect water during subsequent cycles. Water flow management then becomes much more precise than with the prior art device, and the overall performance of the device is increased. In addition, the fluidic isolation of the buffer tank prevents any accidental refilling that could alter the temperature of the mixture. The transition between the draining cycle and normal operation is smooth, without sudden temperature fluctuations, which remain linear and stable.The device thus allows for a shower without sudden temperature changes, avoiding the discomfort of alternating hot and cold water sometimes found in conventional rainwater harvesting systems. Furthermore, the device is simpler and less expensive than the aforementioned prior art devices.
[0019]
[0012] Other advantageous features of the invention are listed in the secondary claims. Each of these features may be considered alone or in combination with the features of claim 1. Each of these features contributes, where appropriate, to the resolution of specific technical problems defined further in the description and in which the other features of claim 1 do not necessarily participate. The features of the secondary claims may thus be the subject, where appropriate, of one or more divisional patent applications.
[0020] Brief description of the figures
[0021]
[0013] Other advantages and features of the invention will become clearer upon reading the description of the embodiments that follow, with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are provided by way of illustrative and non-limiting examples and on which:
[0022] [Fig. 1] is a diagram of a sanitary device according to the invention.
[0023] [Fig. 2] illustrates the circulation of water in the device of figure 1, during the filling of the buffer tank.
[0024] [Fig. 3] illustrates the water circulation in the device of figure 1, during the emptying of the buffer tank.
[0025] [Fig. 4] illustrates the water circulation in the device of figure 1, after the buffer tank has been emptied.
[0026] [Fig. 5] illustrates the water circulation in the device of figure 1, in the case of a forced draining of the buffer tank.
[0027] [Fig. 6] is a diagram illustrating a sanitary device according to another embodiment of the invention.
[0028] [Fig. 7] is a diagram illustrating a sanitary device according to yet another embodiment of the invention.
[0029] [Fig. 8] is a graph illustrating the variation over time of the water temperature measured by the temperature sensor.
[0030] [Fig. 9], [Fig. 10] and [Fig. 11] are variant embodiments of the sanitary device according to the invention.
[0031] Description of the implementation methods
[0032]
[0014] For the sake of clarity, the following clarifications are provided for certain terms used in the description and claims:
[0033] - Unless otherwise indicated, the use of ordinal adjectives "first", "second", etc., to describe an object simply indicates that different occurrences of similar objects are being mentioned and does not imply that the objects so described must be in any given sequence, whether in time, space, ranking, or any other way.
[0034] - Similarly, the use of the adjectives "right / left", "front / back",
[0035] "up / down", etc., allows us to simply describe the position of an object in the configuration of the attached figures, but does not necessarily imply that in practice, similar objects are in the same position.
[0036] - "X and / or Y" means: X alone or Y alone or X+Y.
[0037] - In general, it will be appreciated that the different drawings are not drawn to scale from one figure to another or within a given figure, and in particular that elements of the invention may be arbitrarily drawn to facilitate the reading of the drawings.
[0038]
[0015] The sanitary device that is the subject of the invention is intended to be used for water management in a dwelling or building, for hygiene, cleaning or comfort purposes. It can be integrated into or fitted to a shower column, a tap, a bathtub, a washbasin, a sink, etc.
[0039]
[0016] In Figure 1, the device comprises a first hot water inlet 1 and a second cold water inlet 2. The first inlet 1 is intended to be connected to a hot water pipe 10 of a sanitary network. The second inlet 2 is intended to be connected to a cold water pipe 20 of the sanitary network. The connection of inlets 1 and 2 to pipes 10 and 20 is made using fittings or other conventional plumbing components.
[0040]
[0017] The hot water temperature in pipe 10 (hereinafter referred to as the "reference temperature") is regulated by a hot water production system such as a water heater or boiler. This reference temperature Tr is generally between 35°C and 65°C. The water pressure in the sanitary pipes 10, 20 (hereinafter referred to as the "reference pressure") is generally between 2 bar and 6 bar. This reference pressure Pr is generally regulated by a pressure reducing valve installed at the network inlet.
[0041]
[0018] The device also includes a mixer 4 configured to, in normal operation, simultaneously mix cold and hot water coming respectively from the first inlet 1 and the second inlet 2, in order to provide, at an outlet 3, water at a temperature set by the user. This water can then be distributed to a water distribution device such as a shower head, shower faucet, etc.
[0042]
[0019] The mixer 4 is a conventional mixer. It can be either mechanical or thermostatic. It may include a mixing chamber in which the water flow is regulated according to the temperature set by the user. A specific adjustment mechanism, such as a lever, a rotating handle, or a graduated device, allows the proportion of cold and hot water entering the mixing chamber to be adjusted. This mixer 4 can be integrated into a shower column, a washbasin tap, or a bathtub spout to suit different types of sanitary installations. In a preferred embodiment, the outlet 3 is integrated into the mixer 4.
[0043]
[0020] A buffer tank 5 is used to recycle cold water from the domestic hot water supply line 10 before it reaches the desired temperature. Its capacity can be between 3 L and 12 L.
[0044]
[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the tank 5 is a bladder tank comprising a rigid tank body 51, for example, made of metal. A flexible, leak-proof bladder 50 is installed in the body 51. The space between the inner wall of the body 51 and the bladder 50 is filled with air or a pressurized gas. When water enters the tank 5, it fills the bladder 50, which expands, compressing the air or gas. This compression creates a back pressure that automatically adjusts to the volume of water introduced into the bladder 50. When the bladder 50 is emptied, the pressure exerted by the compressed air or gas tends to compress the bladder, allowing water to exit continuously at a constant or nearly constant pressure. In another embodiment, the tank 5 is a pressure-controlled tank.
[0045]
[0022] A hydraulic circuit allows water to circulate between the first inlet 1, the second inlet 2, the mixer 4 and the buffer tank 5. In Figure 1, this circuit comprises: - a first conduit 61 connecting the first inlet 1 and the mixer 4; - a second conduit 62 connecting the second inlet 2 and the mixer 4; - a third conduit 63 connecting the first inlet 1 and the buffer tank 5; - a fourth conduit 64 connecting the buffer tank 5 and the mixer 4. These different conduits are, for example, in the form of flexible or rigid pipes.
[0046]
[0023] To simplify the design and reduce the circuit's footprint, some of these conduits are interconnected and / or share common sections. In Figure 1, the third conduit 63 is connected to the first conduit 61 at a connection 613, and the fourth conduit 64 is connected to the second conduit 62 at a connection 624. The third conduit 63 and the fourth conduit 64 also share a common section 634 connected to the reservoir 5. Other conduit arrangements are possible, however. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 6, the individual conduits are all independent.
[0047]
[0024] Several flow control devices are installed in the circuit.
[0048] Their arrangement allows for optimal management of water flows as explained further in the description.
[0049]
[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, these control devices are solenoid valves. Their arrangement and controls allow for optimal management of water flow, as explained further in the description. In an open position, they allow water to pass through the pipe in which they are installed. Conversely, in a closed position, they prevent water from passing through. These solenoid valves can be electrically actuated solenoid or diaphragm valves to open or close a water passage orifice.
[0050]
[0026] In Figure 1, a first solenoid valve EV1 (first regulating element) is installed in the first conduit 61, downstream of the connection 613 between said first conduit and the third conduit 63. A second solenoid valve EV2 (second regulating element) is installed in the second conduit 62, upstream of the connection 624 between said second conduit and the fourth conduit 64. And a third solenoid valve EV3 (third regulating element) is installed in the third conduit 63.
[0051]
[0027] In Figure 6, a first solenoid valve EV1 (first regulating element) is installed in the first conduit 61, a second solenoid valve EV2 (second regulating element) is installed in the second conduit 62, a third solenoid valve EV3 (third regulating element) is installed in the third conduit 63, and a fourth solenoid valve EV4 (fourth regulating element) is installed in the fourth conduit 64. It can be seen that thanks to the arrangement of its conduits 61-64, the embodiment of Figure 1 makes it possible to reduce the number of solenoid valves (or number of regulating elements) compared to the embodiment of Figure 6, to achieve the same result.
[0052]
[0028] The figure illustrates a conduit arrangement similar to that of Figure 1, but where a fourth solenoid valve EV4 (fourth regulating element) is installed in the fourth conduit 64. This fourth solenoid valve EV4 could however be installed in the second conduit 62, upstream of the connection 624.
[0053]
[0029] According to one embodiment, the Evi solenoid valves have two positions, i.e., an open position or a closed position. According to another embodiment, all or part of the Evi solenoid valves, and in particular the second solenoid valve EV2, are flow-controlled, i.e., their opening diameter is adjustable between a fully open position and a fully closed position.
[0054]
[0030] According to one embodiment, the first solenoid valve EV1 and the third solenoid valve EV3 can be in the form of a single three-way solenoid valve.
[0055]
[0031] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 11, the first regulating element is a valve V1 – or more generally an internal shut-off / shut-off element – integrated into the mixer 4, which, depending on its position, is capable of allowing or preventing flow, so that in the closed position of said mixer, flow towards the outlet 3 is prevented. Conversely, in the open position of the mixer 4, flow towards the outlet 3 is allowed.
[0056]
[0032] The EVi solenoid valves are controlled by an electronic controller 7, for example of the programmable logic controller, processor, microprocessor or CPU (for Central Processing Unit) type. The control instructions generated by the controller 7 can be transmitted to the EVi solenoid valves by wired or wireless connection (Wifi®, Bluetooth®, etc.).
[0057]
[0033] According to one embodiment, the controller 7 is activated by the user by means of a user interface 70, for example in the form of a button or an activation key. In this case, the user has the option of activating or deactivating the cold water recovery system. The device shown in Figure 1 corresponds to this controlled activation method.
[0058]
[0034] According to another embodiment, the controller 7 is activated automatically as soon as the mixer 4 is opened by the user to allow water to flow from outlet 3. A dedicated sensor connected to the controller 7 is advantageously installed in the mixer 4 in this case. In this alternative embodiment, the cold water recovery is forced and automatically activated, regardless of the user's choice. The device shown in Figures 6 and 7 corresponds to this forced activation mode.
[0059]
[0035] Regardless of the activation mode of the controller 7, it can be configured to emit one or more visual and / or audible alarm signals indicating to the user one or more phases of the water recovery process (e.g., filling of the buffer tank, emptying of said tank; reaching the desired temperature, etc.). This or these signals can, for example, be emitted by one or more light sources 71 and / or loudspeakers.
[0060]
[0036] A temperature sensor 8 measures the water temperature at the first inlet 1 and compares it to a threshold temperature. This sensor 8 can be a thermocouple positioned directly in the first conduit 61 (or in the third conduit 63 in the case of Figure 6) at the first inlet 1, a thermistor sensor mounted in contact with the outer surface of the conduit, or a digital sensor. The sensor 8 is connected to the controller 7, which analyzes the temperature data and controls the opening or closing of the solenoid valves EVi accordingly. According to a preferred embodiment that optimizes the control of the solenoid valves and the management of water flow, the controller 7 is configured to acquire the temperature data from the sensor 8 in real time and continuously.
[0037] The threshold temperature Ts can be a predefined temperature stored in a memory area of the controller 7.For example, this threshold temperature Ts can be set at 40°C. In a preferred embodiment, the threshold temperature Ts is defined relative to the reference hot water temperature Tr set by the network's hot water production system (boiler, water heater, etc.). This reference temperature Tr can be acquired in situ by the controller 7 during a calibration phase when the device is installed at its point of use. For example, if the hot water production system of one installation sets the hot water temperature to 35°C, the controller 7 will acquire this reference temperature during the calibration phase, and if the hot water production system of another installation sets the hot water temperature to 45°C, this other reference temperature will be acquired during the calibration phase.
[0061]
[0038] According to one embodiment, the threshold temperature Ts corresponds to the reference temperature Tr (Ts=Tr). According to another embodiment, the threshold temperature Ts is defined according to the following formula: Ts / Tr = X; where X is a percentage between 20% and 90%, preferably between 20% and 50%.
[0062]
[0039] Figure 8 is a graph illustrating the variation of the water temperature T (in degrees Celsius) measured by the temperature sensor 8 as a function of time (in seconds). At time t0, the water temperature is cold (temperature Tf), then begins to rise after only a few seconds (time t). m ) to reach the reference temperature Tr. As soon as the temperature reaches the threshold temperature Ts (instant to), the controller 7 stops filling the reservoir 5 and begins emptying it. The reservoir is thus filled between instants to and ti.
[0063]
[0040] One advantage of setting a threshold temperature Ts lower than the reference temperature Tr is that it allows the filling of the buffer tank 5 to be stopped as quickly as possible to prevent hot water from entering it. This avoids a situation where, during the emptying of the tank 5, the mixer 4 simultaneously mixes hot water (at the reference temperature Tr) from the first inlet 1 and lukewarm water from the tank 5. Such a mixture could result in a water temperature at the outlet 3 that is higher than the temperature set by the user on the mixer 4, causing discomfort or inconvenience. By quickly stopping the filling of the tank 5 when the temperature Ts ( <Tr)est atteinte, le dispositif garantit que seule de l’eau froide ou légèrement tempérée est stockée dans ledit réservoir, préservant ainsi le confort de l’utilisateur et évitant des variations inattendues de la température d'eau délivrée.
[0064]
[0041] It is advantageous to quickly stop the filling of tank 5 and begin emptying it as soon as the water temperature starts to rise. Referring again to Figure 8, the At value should be as small as possible to limit the filling with hot water. Therefore, according to one embodiment, in addition to or instead of the aforementioned condition relating to the threshold temperature Ts, the controller 7 is configured to stop the filling of tank 5 and initiate its emptying upon detection of a rise in water temperature, and more particularly when the variation in water temperature measured by the temperature sensor 8 exceeds a predefined threshold.This temperature increase can be determined, in particular, by the first derivative of the temperature with respect to time: dT(t) / dt > A; where A is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second (°C / s) and corresponds to a minimum temperature change threshold to ensure that the water actually begins to heat up. In other words, as long as dT(t) / dt < A, the buffer tank 5 fills, and as soon as dT(t) / dt > A, the tank is emptied.
[0065]
[0042] The value of A is defined to ensure rapid and efficient detection of the temperature rise, while avoiding spurious triggering due to minor fluctuations or noise in the sensor 8 data. In one embodiment, the value of A is advantageously between 1°C / s and 10°C / s, preferably between 2°C / s and 5°C / s. The value of A can be pre-programmed in the controller 7 or adjusted according to the specific characteristics of the hot water production system. Furthermore, triggering the cessation of tank 5 filling by detecting the temperature rise eliminates the need, where applicable, for the reference temperature Tr and / or the threshold temperature Ts, so that the device is directly operational without the need to implement the aforementioned calibration phase.
[0066]
[0043] For improved responsiveness and greater accuracy, it may be advantageous to also detect the acceleration of the temperature rise, in addition to simply detecting the temperature rise using the first derivative. This acceleration can, in particular, be determined by the second derivative of the temperature with respect to time: d 2 T(t) / dt 2 > B; where B is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second squared (°C / s²) 2 ) and represents the minimum acceleration of the temperature rise required to ensure that the water actually begins to heat up. In other words, as long as d 2 T(t) / dt 2 < B, the buffer tank 5 fills up.
[0067]
[0044] The value of B is defined to detect a significant acceleration in the temperature rise without being overly sensitive to minor variations or noise, while avoiding spurious triggering due to sporadic temperature increases or noise in the sensor 8 data. In one embodiment, the value of B is advantageously between 0.1°C / s 2 and 3°C / s 2 , preferably between 0.5°C / s 2 and 1.5°C / s 2 The value of B can be pre-programmed in the controller 7 or adjusted according to the specific characteristics of the hot water production system.
[0068]
[0045] A water level sensor can also be installed in the buffer tank 5. In this case, the controller 7 can be configured to initiate the emptying of the tank 5 as soon as this sensor detects that said tank is full. The controller 7 can further be configured to stop the emptying of the tank 5 if a pressure sensor detects overpressure in said tank.
[0069]
[0046] In summary, for the buffer tank 5 to fill, the water temperature T measured by the temperature sensor 8 must satisfy at least one of the following first conditions:
[0070] - T < Ts, and / or
[0071] - dT(t) / dt < A, possibly combined with the optional condition that d 2 T(t) / dt 2 < B.
[0072]
[0047] And to initiate the emptying of the buffer tank 5, at least one of the following second conditions must be met:
[0073] - the water temperature T measured by the temperature sensor 8 is such that T > Ts, and / or
[0074] - the water temperature T measured by the temperature sensor 8 is such that dT(t) / dt > A, possibly combined with the optional condition that d 2 T(t) / dt 2 B, and / or - tank 5 is full, and / or
[0075] - Tank 5 is under positive pressure.
[0076]
[0048] In an advantageous embodiment, a pressure sensor 9 measures the water pressure exiting the buffer tank 5 in order to compare it to a threshold pressure Ps. This pressure measurement is particularly useful when emptying the buffer tank 5, as explained later in the description. The sensor 9 can be a diaphragm sensor or a piezoresistive transducer. It can be integrated into the tank 5 or positioned in the fourth conduit 64. In Figures 1 and 6, it is installed in the conduit 634. Advantageously, the sensor 9 is connected to the controller 7, which analyzes the pressure data and controls the opening or closing of the solenoid valves EVi accordingly. In a preferred embodiment that optimizes the control of the solenoid valves and the management of water flow, the controller 7 is configured to acquire the pressure data from the sensor 9 in real time and continuously.
[0077]
[0049] The threshold pressure Ps can be a predefined pressure stored in a memory area of the controller 7. For example, this threshold pressure Ps can be set to 3 bar. According to a preferred embodiment, the threshold pressure Ps is defined relative to the reference pressure Pr set in the network. This reference pressure Pr can be acquired in situ by the controller 7 during a calibration phase when the device is installed at its operating site. For example, if the pressure in one network is set to 3 bar, the controller 7 will acquire this reference pressure during the calibration phase, and if the pressure in another network is set to 4 bar, this other reference pressure will be acquired during the calibration phase.
[0078]
[0050] In one embodiment, the threshold pressure Ps corresponds to the reference pressure Pr (Ps=Pr). In another embodiment, the threshold pressure Ps is defined according to the following formula: Ps / Pr = Y; where Y is a percentage between 80% and 100%. This other embodiment has the advantage of better controlling the draining of the tank 5. Indeed, the water expelled from the tank 5 has a pressure similar to that of the hot water coming from the first inlet 1. This allows for optimal emptying of the tank 5 while avoiding a pressure difference at the mixing valve 4, which could lead to an unbalanced mixing of the water flows and, consequently, an outlet temperature 3 different from that set by the user. This precise pressure control also minimizes the risk of malfunction of the mixing valve 4, by ensuring hydraulic stability and homogeneity of the mixing conditions.
[0079]
[0051] A water level sensor can also be installed in the buffer tank 5. In this case, the controller 7 can be configured to stop the emptying of the tank 5 as soon as this sensor detects that said tank is empty.
[0080]
[0052] Thus, the emptying of the buffer tank 5 is stopped when at least one of the following third conditions is met:
[0081] - the pressure P of the water exiting reservoir 5 is such that P < Ps, and / or
[0082] - Tank 5 is empty.
[0083]
[0053] The operation of the device will now be described with reference to figures 2 to 7. The conduits in solid lines are those where there is water circulation and the conduits in dashed lines, those where the water circulation is blocked.
[0084]
[0054] The device can be connected to the mains or operate with batteries or another type of battery, in particular to power the solenoid valves EVi, the controller 7 and the various sensors 8, 9. However, it is advantageous for the device to be energy self-sufficient in order to simplify its installation, even in isolated locations or temporary installations and to ensure reliable and continuous operation.
[0085]
[0055] To this end, a hydraulic turbine 641 is advantageously integrated into the water circulation circuit to convert the kinetic energy of the water flowing in said circuit into electrical energy to power the device components, in particular the solenoid valves EVi, the controller 7, and the sensors 8, 9. In one embodiment, the turbine 641 consists of a rotor equipped with blades or vanes, which rotate under the effect of the water flow, and a fixed stator. The mechanical energy generated by the rotation of the rotor is transmitted to an electrical generator configured to supply the electricity required by the device.
[0086]
[0056] According to an embodiment that optimizes this energy autonomy, the turbine 641 is a micro-hydraulic turbine and the controller 7 is an ultra-low-power microcontroller. The solenoid valves EVi are preferably of the bistable type, consuming energy only during a change of state.
[0087]
[0057] Furthermore, a rechargeable battery is advantageously integrated into the device to store the energy generated by the turbine 641, and thus ensure a temporary autonomous power supply for the device, even in the absence of flow (for example at the start of the device) or low flow.
[0088]
[0058] The turbine 641 is preferably installed in a conduit that allows it to capture an optimal water flow rate. In Figures 1 and 7, the turbine 641 is installed in the second conduit 62, downstream of its connection 624 with the fourth conduit 64, so as to capture the water flow during the emptying of the reservoir 5 and during the normal operation of the mixer 4. Alternatively, the turbine 641 can be installed in the first conduit 61, downstream of its connection 613 with the third conduit 63, so as to capture the water flow during the filling of the reservoir 5 and during the normal operation of the mixer 4.
[0089]
[0059] In Figure 6, the turbine 641 is installed in the fourth conduit 64 so as to capture the water flow during the emptying of the tank 5. It can also be installed in the first conduit 61 and / or in the second conduit 62 and / or in the third conduit 63 and / or at the outlet 3, so as to capture the water flow during the normal operation of the mixer 4 and / or during the filling of the tank 5.
[0090] Procedure initiation
[0091]
[0060] In the controlled activation mode illustrated by figures 2 to 5, the user initiates the procedure by manually activating the controller 7, for example by a short press on the button 70. The mixer 4 is not operated by the user.
[0092]
[0061] In the forced activation mode illustrated by figures 6 or 7, the controller 7 is automatically activated as soon as the mixer 4 is operated by the user.
[0093] Filling the buffer tank
[0094]
[0062] Figure 2 illustrates the case where the water circulating in the hot water pipe 10 is initially cold. In other words, at least one of the aforementioned conditions is met. The controller 7 closes the first solenoid valve EV1 and the second solenoid valve EV2, and opens the third solenoid valve EV3. The water from the first inlet 1 is thus directed to the buffer tank 5, which fills up.
[0095]
[0063] In the configuration of figures 6 or 7, the controller 7 closes the first solenoid valve EV1, the second solenoid valve EV2 and the fourth solenoid valve EV4, and opens the third solenoid valve EV3.
[0096]
[0064] In the case where the first regulating element is a valve V1 integrated into the mixer 4, this valve is closed. For the user, this means not opening the mixer 4, that is to say, not actuating it and leaving it closed.
[0097] Draining the buffer tank
[0098]
[0065] Referring to Figure 3, as soon as one of the aforementioned second conditions is met, the controller 7 advantageously emits a signal, for example by switching on the light source 71, to warn the user that they can operate the mixer 4. The controller 7 opens the first solenoid valve EV1 and closes the second solenoid valve EV2 and the third solenoid valve EV3. If the first regulating element is valve V1, operating the mixer 4 causes it to open. The mixer 4 then simultaneously mixes the water from the tank 5 and the hot water from the first inlet 1.
[0099]
[0066] Closing the second solenoid valve EV2 and the third solenoid valve EV3 isolates the buffer tank 5 from the hot water inlets 1 and cold water inlets 2. Therefore, there is no risk of the tank 5 filling up unintentionally with pressurized water in the pipe 20, and especially with pressurized hot water flowing from the first inlet 1 to the mixer 4. The tank 5 can thus empty itself under optimal conditions.
[0100]
[0067] In the configuration shown in Figures 6 or 7, the controller 7 opens the first solenoid valve EV1 and the fourth solenoid valve EV4 and closes the second solenoid valve EV2 and the third solenoid valve EV3. If the first regulating element is valve V1, it is already open due to the actuation of the mixer 4. Since the mixer 4 is already open, the water at outlet 3 is that which has been simultaneously mixed by said mixer from the tank 5 and the first inlet 1. The draining of the buffer tank stops and the mixer returns to normal operation.
[0101]
[0068] Referring to Figure 4, as soon as one of the aforementioned third conditions is met, the controller 7 opens the first solenoid valve EV1 and the second solenoid valve EV2 and closes the third solenoid valve EV3. If the first regulating element is valve V1, it is already open due to the actuation of the mixer 4. The mixer 4 then resumes normal operation, simultaneously mixing the hot water from the first inlet 1 and the cold water from the second inlet 2.
[0102]
[0069] Closing the third solenoid valve EV3 prevents any water circulation from the first inlet 1 to the buffer tank 5. A non-return valve 640 can be installed in the fourth conduit 64 so as to prevent any water circulation from the second inlet 2 to the buffer tank 5.
[0103]
[0070] In the configuration shown in Figures 6 or 7, the controller 7 opens the first solenoid valve EV1 and the second solenoid valve EV2 and closes the third solenoid valve EV3 and the fourth solenoid valve EV4. If the first regulating element is valve V1, it is already open due to the actuation of the mixer 4. The closing of solenoid valves EV3 and EV4 prevents any water flow from the tank to the buffer tank 5, without the need for check valves.
[0104]
[0071] Another advantage of the non-return valve 640 is that when emptying the buffer tank 5, if the mixer 4 is closed and if the pressure in the hot water line becomes greater than the pressure in said tank, it allows to block any untimely refilling of said tank.
[0105]
[0072] During the draining of the buffer tank 5, the water at outlet 3 is the water simultaneously mixed by the mixer 4 from said tank and the first inlet 1. In practice, the temperature of the water in tank 5 is higher than that of the cold water from the second inlet 2. Indeed, the water in tank 5 may be lukewarm, so that when the draining of said tank stops and the mixer 4 returns to normal operation, there may be a change in the temperature of the water at outlet 3. This change is due to the transition from a mixture of lukewarm and hot water to a mixture of cold and hot water. This temperature change at outlet 3 may be unpleasant for the user.
[0106]
[0073] To solve this problem, a flow limiter is arranged in parallel with the second solenoid valve EV2. In Figure 9, this flow limiter L5 is installed in a fifth conduit 65 of the water circulation circuit providing fluidic communication between the second inlet 2 and the mixer 4. The fifth conduit 65 is parallel to the second conduit 62, and joins it downstream of the connection 624.
[0107]
[0074] Thus, during the emptying of tank 5, solenoid valves EV2 and EV3 are closed. The water at outlet 3 is a mixture of warm water from tank 5, hot water from the first inlet 1, and a reduced flow of cold water from the second inlet 2, passing through the limiter L5. This reinjection of cold water into the warm + hot water mixture lowers the temperature of the mixture. Consequently, when the emptying of tank 5 stops and normal operation resumes, there is less variation in the temperature of the water at outlet 3, which is more pleasant for the user.
[0108]
[0075] A similar result is obtained in the configuration of Figure 10 where the second solenoid valve EV2 is replaced by a flow limiter L limiting the passage of water in the second conduit 62.
[0109] Forced draining of the buffer tank
[0110]
[0076] When the tank 5 is full and / or over-pressurized, it is advantageous to be able to drain it by force. In such cases, the controller 7 can emit a signal, for example by activating the light source 71, to warn the user that the "forced drain" mode is activated.
[0111]
[0077] In the case of Figure 5, the user must open the mixer 4. The controller 7 closes the solenoid valves EV1, EV2 and EV3 so that the water contained in the tank 5 can be discharged through the outlet 3 via the mixer 4.
[0112]
[0078] In the case of Figures 6 and 7, the mixer 4 is already open. The controller 7 closes the solenoid valves EV1, EV2 and EV3 and opens the fourth solenoid valve EV4 so that the water contained in the tank 5 is discharged through the outlet 3 via the mixer 4.
[0113]
[0079] The arrangement of the various elements and / or means and / or steps of the invention, in the embodiments described above, should not be understood as requiring such an arrangement in all implementations. In any event, it will be understood that various modifications may be made to these elements and / or means and / or steps, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0114]
[0080] Furthermore, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be combined with one or more other features described only in another embodiment. Similarly, one or more features described only in one embodiment can be generalized to other embodiments, even if this or these features are described only in combination with other features.
Claims
Demands
1. [Sanitary device comprising: - a first hot water inlet (1), a second cold water inlet (2), an outlet (3) to a water distribution device, - a mixer (4) configured to, in normal operation, simultaneously mix cold and hot water coming respectively from the first inlet (1) and the second inlet (2) and supply, at the outlet (3), water at a set temperature, - a buffer tank (5), - a water circulation circuit between the first inlet (1), the second inlet (2), the mixer (4) and the buffer tank (5), - a temperature sensor (8) to measure the water temperature at the first inlet (1), - a plurality of flow control devices (EV1, EV2, EV3, EV4, V1, L) installed in the circuit, said control devices being arranged such that: -- when the water temperature measured at the first inlet (1) satisfies at least one first predefined condition, the water from said first inlet is directed to the buffer tank (5), -- when at least one second predefined condition is met, the buffer tank (5) is emptied by directing the water it contains towards the mixer (4), -- during the emptying of the buffer tank (5), all fluid communication between said tank and the inlets (1, 2) must be cut off, characterized in that: - The water circulation circuit includes: -- a first conduit (61) providing fluidic communication between the first inlet (1) and the mixer (4), -- a second conduit (62) providing fluidic communication between the second inlet (2) and the mixer (4), -- a third conduit (63) connected to the first conduit (61) and establishing fluid communication between the first inlet (1) and the buffer tank (5), -- a fourth conduit (64) connected to the second conduit (62) and establishing fluid communication between the buffer tank (5) and the mixer (4), - a first flow control device (EV1, V1) is installed in the first conduit (61), downstream of the connection (613) between said first conduit and the third conduit (63), - a second flow control device (EV2, L) is installed in the second conduit (62), upstream of the connection (624) between said second conduit and the fourth conduit (64), - a third flow control device (EV3) is installed in the third conduit (63), and in that the device includes at least one of the following characteristics: - when the first condition is met, the regulating devices are in a configuration where: - the first regulating device (EV1, V1) is in a closed position preventing the passage of water; - the second regulating device (EV2, L) is in a closed position preventing the passage of water or limiting the passage of water in the second conduit (62); - the third regulating device (EV3) is in an open position allowing the passage of water, and / or - During the emptying of the buffer tank (5), the control devices are in a configuration where: - the first control device (EV1, V1) is in an open position allowing the passage of water; - the second control device (EV2, L) is in a closed position preventing the passage of water or limiting the passage of water in the second conduit (62); - the third control device (EV3) is in a closed position preventing the passage of water, and / or - After the buffer tank (5) has been emptied, the control elements are in a configuration where: - the first control element (EV1, V1) is in an open position allowing the passage of water; - the second control element (EV2, L) is in an open position allowing the passage of water or limiting the passage of water in the second conduit (62); - the third control element (EV3) is in a closed position prohibiting the passage of water.
2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the flow control elements (EV1, EV2, EV3) are solenoid valves controlled such that when the first condition is satisfied: - the first solenoid valve (EV1) and the second solenoid valve (EV2) are in a closed position prohibiting the passage of water; - the third solenoid valve (EV3) is in an open position allowing the passage of water.
3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow control members (EV1, EV2, EV3) are solenoid valves controlled such that during the emptying of the buffer tank (5): - the first solenoid valve (EV1) is in an open position allowing the passage of water; - the second solenoid valve (EV2) and the third solenoid valve (EV3) are in a closed position prohibiting the passage of water.
4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow control members (EV1, EV2, EV3) are solenoid valves controlled such that after the emptying of the buffer tank (5): - the first solenoid valve (EV1) and the second solenoid valve (EV2) are in an open position allowing the passage of water; - the third solenoid valve (EV3) is in a closed position prohibiting the passage of water.
5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first condition is that the water temperature measured at the first inlet (1) is less than a threshold temperature (Ts).
6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second condition is that the water temperature measured at the first inlet (1) is equal to or greater than a threshold temperature (Ts).
7. Device according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the threshold temperature (Ts) is defined in relation to a reference hot water temperature (Tr) set by a hot water production system in a domestic hot water network to which the first inlet (1) is intended to be connected.
8. Device according to claim 7, wherein the threshold temperature (Ts) is defined according to the following formula: Ts / Tr = X; where Ts is the threshold temperature, Tr the reference temperature and X a percentage between 20% and 90%, preferably between 20% and 50%.
9. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first condition is that the first derivative dT(t) / dt of the temperature (T) measured at the first input (1) with respect to time (t) is such that dT(t) / dt < A; where A is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second (°C / s).
10. Device according to claim 9, wherein the first condition is further that the second derivative of 2 T(t) / dt 2 of the temperature (T) measured at the first inlet (1) with respect to time (t) is such that d 2 T(t) / dt 2< B; where B is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second squared (°C / s²) 2 ).
11. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second condition is that the first derivative dT(t) / dt of the temperature (T) measured at the first input (1) with respect to time (t) is such that dT(t) / dt > A; where A is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second (°C / s).
12. Device according to claim 11, wherein the second condition is further that the second derivative of 2 T(t) / dt 2 of the temperature (T) measured at the first inlet (1) with respect to time (t) is such that d 2 T(t) / dt 2 > B; where B is a number greater than 0 expressed in degrees Celsius per second squared (°C / s²) 2 ).
13. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in use, during the emptying of the buffer tank (5), the mixer (4) simultaneously mixes the water from said tank and the hot water from the first inlet (1).
14. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - said device includes a pressure sensor (9) to measure the pressure of the water exiting the buffer tank (5) during the emptying of said tank, - the flow control elements are solenoid valves (EV1, EV2, EV3) arranged and controlled so that when the measured pressure is less than or equal to a threshold pressure (Ps), said solenoid valves (EV1, EV2, EV3) direct to the mixer (4) the hot water from the first inlet (1) and the cold water from the second inlet (2) so that said mixer returns to normal operation.
15. Device according to claim 14, wherein the threshold pressure (Ps) is defined in relation to a reference water pressure (Pr) set in a domestic water network to which the first inlet (1) and the second inlet (2) are intended to be connected.
16. Device according to claim 15, wherein the threshold pressure is defined according to the following formula: Ps / Pr = Y; where Ps is the threshold pressure, Pr the reference pressure and Y a percentage between 80% and 100%.
17. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one hydraulic turbine (641) is integrated into the water circulation circuit to convert the energy of the water flowing in said circuit into electrical energy.
18. Device according to claim 17, comprising a rechargeable battery configured to store the energy generated by the hydraulic turbine (641) and to provide a temporary autonomous power supply to said device.
19. A device according to any one of claims 17 or 18 taken in combination with claim 1, wherein: - a hydraulic turbine (641) is installed in the second conduit (64), upstream of the connection (624) between said second conduit and the fourth conduit (64), and / or - a hydraulic turbine (641) is installed in the first conduit (61), downstream of the connection (613) between said first conduit and the third conduit (63).
20. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a check valve (64) is installed in the fourth conduit (64) so as to prevent any circulation of water from the second inlet (2) to the buffer tank (5).
21. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flow control elements are solenoid valves (EV1, EV2, EV3) controlled by an electronic controller (7) configured to generate control instructions based on data from the temperature sensor (8).
22. Device according to claim 21, wherein the electronic controller (7) is configured to generate control instructions also based on data from a pressure sensor (9) measuring the water pressure exiting the buffer tank (5) during the emptying of said tank.
23. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: - the second flow control device is a second solenoid valve (EV2); - a flow limiter (L5) is arranged in parallel with said second solenoid valve (EV2), in a fifth conduit (65) of the water circulation circuit putting the second inlet (2) and the mixer (4) into fluidic communication.
24. Device according to any one of claims 1, 5 to 13, 17 to 20, wherein the first flow control member is a valve (V1) integrated into the mixer (4).
25. Device according to any one of claims 1, 5 to 13, 17 to 20, or 24 wherein the second flow control member is a flow limiter (L).